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clanwarrior-tumbly · 2 years

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Can you do a Satan from Cuphead x a reader that's a kind atheist? I mean, not in the sense that they don't believe in God or greater deities (since Satan literally has a casino, can't deny that there is some sort of god in the Isle), but in the sense that they flat out don't care where they end up when they die, only if they make the most of their life now. By being good to anyone that crosses their path, and that just so happens to be Satan himself.

I developed a head canon that Satan is having an existential crisis about his existence. Bc in the show we've seen him do good things, and in the dlc we see both his demonic and angelic sides at once. Maybe the kind reader could help?

“Sooooo...you literally don't care where your soul winds up?"

"Nope."

"..but what if I take it?"

"Then that's fine-”

“What?!! No!! That’s not right at all!!" Stomping his foot, Devil loomed over you with menacing yellow eyes. "You can't just say "I don't care" or "that's fine." Did you forget who I am?”

“You-”

“Exactly. I’m the Devil, you idiot! You should be afraid!"

“But you don’t scare me.” You return the look with the calmest of gazes.

You didn’t say that out of cockiness; you genuinely didn’t think he was all that bad. Then again you had this mindset towards everyone, including the debtors that were still picking up the pieces after their freedom from the contracts. You crossed paths with many of them--offering a kind hand to those who seemingly didn’t deserve it, such as Baroness and King Dice.

And what did you expect in repayment? Nothing.

You didn’t care where you winded up when the time inevitably comes. It never bothered you; rather than think about the future, you wanted to live in the present and do good deeds during your time in this world.

Yes, that included helping the Devil himself--the very fiend that could condemn you to fiery punishment and harvest your soul.

You actually helped his minions rebuild the throne room that got destroyed in his battle with the cups. Whatever their short statures and small, weak wings couldn’t reach, you were there to assist. Not to mention you’d regularly polish his trident if he didn’t have it with him and flash sickening smiles whenever you two crossed paths.

At Henchman’s insistence, Devil finally decided to confront you about this, wondering if you had some ulterior motivation. Surely you wanted something from him in exchange, right?

“Why are you so friendly to me all of the sudden? Are you expecting to get VIP access to my casino--which, by the way, I can no longer enter due to a magic spell binding?! Because you’re out of-”

“Is...me just wanting to be nice a good-enough answer?”

“No!” Growling under his breath, he turned on his heel. “Don’t waste your energy trying to help me anymore. I have legions at my disposal. Unless you give me a real answer I-”

“I had a dream about you.”

Devil blinked, slowly looking back at you with confusion. “A dream? You mean...a nightmare?” He grinned evilly, though it was quick to falter as you smiled and shook your head.

“Noope. I meant a dream. For the past few weeks I’ve had the same exact one.”

Although he usually wouldn’t care, he was curious about this “dream” you had, so he fully turned around and huffed, indicating he was staying to listen.

“I took a nap near a graveyard one day, and I found myself in this weird...dimension. I was fighting you. But there were..two forms of you. Nothing like your spider or goat or giant ones. You were a demon and angel. It was so vivid that I remember what they looked like. I even drew them out.”

Showing him a paper, you presented a drawing of you standing on a platform and a giant skeleton of his likeness in the background. On either side of you were two large entities that shared his face:

One was an angel in a blue toga, with nubby horns and fluffy wings. His eyes were kind and his hands were clasped together in a prayer. The other was covered in red fur with ram horns and batlike wings, looking down at you with a devilish grin.

“The angel wasn’t attacking me, but the demon did.” You continued to explain. “And sometimes the two would switch places when I tried talking to one. They seemed...conflicted with hurting me, as if they didn’t want to. Yet they couldn’t stop or let me go. I only woke up when I got hurt or fell off the platform.”

You just chuckled awkwardly at Devil’s blank reaction. “Guess you can say it was one hell of a dream-”

Suddenly he snatched the drawing from you, examining it more closely. Although the red demon looked quite dashing, he couldn’t help but feel a twinge of pain seeing the blue angel.

How could this be? What would make you dream of these two halves of himself in such detail?

He didn’t know whether to laugh or feel insulted.

“You know this dream could mean you’ve had one too many sugar cubes..and you’re sleeping next to graves-”

“Nope, I’ve had this same dream over and over, even in the comfort of my own home. I think..it’s trying to tell me that you’re not absolutely evil.”

His fur bristled with tension, as if he was shocked with Cuphead’s invisible sweater, but he bit his tongue. Deep down he knew there was some truth to your statement, yet he buried it, thinking he could get away with just closing up and mocking you as he did every other resident.

“Well..that’s only what you wish I was. But the reality is that I am 100% evil!” He huffed. “Honestly if you think I’m even remotely capable of any good-”

“What about the time you painted the fence for the cups so they didn’t have to?”

“...they tricked me into doing that!!! Although I did find it fairly therapeutic..” Devil hummed for a moment, before blinking as he realized how “soft” he was becoming and scoffed loudly. “L-Look, you want conclusive proof that I’m evil? Well..you can’t spell “devil” without E-V-I-L! Now how about that?” He smirked.

“But you go by other names, too.”

His smile faltered. “.........”

“Satan, Lucifer..those don’t have the word evil in-”

“THAT STUPID DREAM MEANS NOTHING!!” Flames abruptly burst around his form, making you step back. Not in fright, but to avoid being burned. And you noticed your drawing was slowly being disintegrated into ash.

Yet you stayed calm as the fire died down, and he growled at you. Though his yellow gaze went to the drawing, realizing half of it had burnt, leaving only..

The blue angel.

You frowned slightly, thinking you pushed one button too many. His shoulders were slumped, yet you remained cautious in case he had another outburst. “Maybe you’re right. I’m sorry. But that’s why I’m not scared of you. Perhaps I should be but-”

“..no, you..you’re the right one.”

You blinked. “Huh?”

“You’re right.” He finally admitted through clenched teeth. “I wasn’t always this evil..in fact..I was just like this angel once.” Looking up at you, you could see pink-colored tears turning his eyes glossy. “I used to be better than this...I..used to be...a decent guy. Now here I stand, with a fallen empire and despised by everyone!!”

You were astonished that the Devil was humbling himself right before you, but you nodded in understanding.

“Could I truly call myself the Devil anymore? I mean..like..I should’ve taken your soul the moment you intruded in my lair!! I never cared about anyone!! The Devil never does! But I held back...so what does that say about me now?! I don’t understand!!” He wailed.

Feeling a hand callously pet his arm, he opened his teary eyes to see your soft smile. Still kind and warm in the face of an all-powerful demon who could ignite himself at any time.

“I think that says..you’re conflicted with yourself. Part of that angel you once were is still inside you, trying to break through. It’s not a bad thing. It just shows you have a heart.”

He sniffled, rubbing at his eyes like a child. “My heart is only cold. But..part of me still wishes I could go back to what I was before. But even with all my power I cannot turn back time or turn into anything even slightly angelic.”

“Well at least you’re accepting it, y’know?” You comforted. “And..you can still do good around Inkwell. Like small things.”

“Such as?”

“Not..popping a random kid’s balloon? That would be a good start.”

“Awh, but it’s funnyyyyy.” He pouted childishly, though upon seeing your gaze turn stern, he sighed. “Fine.” Rolling his eyes, he looked at the drawing he still had, sheepishly handing it back to you. “Here. My first “good deed” for the day. Sorry it’s halfway burnt.”

Taking it back, you folded and pocketed it. “I actually have dozens of drawings like this. Every time I have that dream, I immediately wake up to draw you, trying to remember all the details. At first..they were just stick figures since I couldn’t recall much, but now I’m currently working on a full-fledged painting.”

“Ooooo, a painting of my likeness~?” Devil cooed with a raised eyebrow. “Why, I’m pleased to be somebody’s muse.”

Yep. That pride and ego he was so notorious for was showing again.

“Well....” He checked his imaginary watch as he summoned his trident. “I have things to do but..this has been erm..a nice chat. I will see that painting once it’s finished, no?”

“Of course.” You promised. “Just don’t randomly drop in like you always do to the cups..I want you to be surprised.”

“Fine. I trust that you won’t disappoint me.”

And just like that, he vanished into a puff of smoke, leaving you alone with your half-burnt drawing and more knowledge of what really went on inside his mind.

Today, you found good in him. And that made you smile.

#this was a really good idea anon!#i wanted to write something about the angel/demon fr #clanask #anonymous #cuphead x reader #cuphead dlc x reader #cuphead delicious last course x reader #cuphead devil x reader #devil x reader #cuphead angel and demon

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witchthewriter · 10 months

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𝑺𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝒇𝒐𝒓 @theferalgremlin.

𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐕𝐄𝐋

𝑫𝒆𝒔𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

𝑰 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑵𝒂𝒕𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒂! … 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑾𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒂! You said you were okay with a poly relationship and I've never gotten the chance to ship someone with two people from the same fandom in this way and it's actually really exciting!

Okay so I think you three would be this absolutely incredible trio. The most badass and you would have your own group name that was given to you (Nat did NOT want a name)

Also I have this headcanon that in this world you can tame animals and they listen to you. I won't go into your background because it is very traumatising in this world, but you can tame ANY animal. And that includes ones from different worlds...

For the reason why I ship you with Nat; is because you both have similar personalities, but at the same time I can see you being somewhat similar to Wanda as well? You balance light and darkness inside of you.

𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒏𝒔

You said you would be up for a poly relationship if everyone was consenting ... well, turns out all three of you have feelings for each other and are more than consenting to the relationship

Wanda falls into the homemaker role; she loves it. A housewife, even though no one asked her to do it. She loves looking after You and Nat

Nat is away a lot for missions, which makes you and Wanda sad. But she always tries to contact you one way or another

Wanda calls you 'draga' which means darling/dear one. Nat calls you 'Sladkiye shcheki' (sweetcheeks)

Nat always brings back presents/momentos from the places that she's told to go to. She brings you back records from your favourite bands.

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈

Burn Your Village by Kiki Rockwell

𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔

"You wear the pants in this relationship" (You & Wanda say to Nat) x "Oh I wish, I cannot control either of you at all" (Nat)

Makes A Mess (You) x Cleans The Mess (Nat) x Is A Mess (Wanda)

Moon (Nat) x Eclipse (You) x Sun (Wanda)

𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆

People With The Most Traumatising Background Fall In Love

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖

Nat's favourite thing about you is your intensity. She finds it absolutely invigorating. She too has a lot of intense feelings but was never allowed to show them. But with you, she can let everything out. Tell you what she hasn't told anyone before. She can let down her walls.

Wanda's favourite thing about you is that you have a lot of love for things, a lot of passion. She loves how you can delve into your creativity and draw for hours. You actually drew her once and she teared up because she didn't think you were thinking of her that much.

𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅

Your best friend would be Mantis! Oh my god, you would love her so much and show her all these things on earth. Especially those game stores (I cannot believe the word has left my brain) ya know oh! Arcades! And the claw machines; she would be on those for hours upon hours, trying to win a prize.

𝑾𝒉𝒊𝒄𝒉 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆

A mix of Darcy Lewis, Mantis and Wanda. A softness that is hidden by a hard shell. Deflecting hard situations with humour, kind but if someone crosses you - then that's it, you hold a grudge for life.

𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒕

What comes with your magic is the ability to tame any animal. And that is a big thing. You're one of the most important players in the game. So, that means you need protection. And what better protection than a goddamn wolf? You had your wolf well before you met Nat and Wanda, so when you moved in together, you all decided on getting a place with a big backyard for your wolf (they were weary of him at first but because you can telepathically talk to him, he knows that they're safe and he protects them too).

Also, with a house so large, that means you can connect with the animals that are native. You've befriended ravens, who keep an eye out for danger, and bears who like to eat the left overs from dinner.

𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐘 𝐏𝐎𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐑

𝑫𝒆𝒔𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

𝑰 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑫𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒐 𝑴𝒂𝒍𝒇𝒐𝒚! The Slytherin Prince, the Dark Lord's apprentice ... I think you would be a solace for him. A place of safety. Someone who he can open up to and find the real him. Ever since he was born, there was a plan for him, a way of being that made him an awful person. But with you, he can peel back those layers that others have put in place.

𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒏𝒔

It was your scent he smelled with the Amortentia. Even though you weren't present in the class, he was deeply embarrassed.

You started a relationship with him because he slipped a note in one of your books, helping you with some questions you were finding difficult in class. He knew because he would watch you in the common room, slumped over the table, rereading the material over and over again

Then he made sure no one bothered you. No one - not from any House. It was because on your first day at Hogwarts, you had sat across from him on he Slytherin table (even though he was a year above you) and smiled at him

Your kindness was like a kick to the gut. He hadn't experienced it from a stranger before. Especially not a Slytherin stranger.

From then on, he had kept an eye on you. Trying to figure you out.

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈

Devil's Resting Place by Laura Marling

𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔

"Being With You Makes Me Better"

Teases Them (Draco) x About To End Them (You)

I Don’t Know What I’m Doing But At Least I’m Alive, Right? (Draco) x You’re Doing Great, Sweetie (You)

𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆

“I care about you!” x “You shouldn’t!”

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖

Draco loves that you can think for yourself; you have your own opinions and don't let others affect what you believe in. He admires your stubbornness and sometimes damns it. But he knows that being firm in your beliefs also means you're very loyal.

𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅

Ginny Weasley, much to the surprise of ... everyone. A Slytherin and Gryffindor friendship was rarely heard of. But like many traditions, you broke them. Ginny was cold to you at first, but once you stuck up for a first year Ravenclaw girl, she had respect for you.

And that grew over the first two years, and then you were partnered together in potions and have been best friends ever since.

𝑾𝒉𝒊𝒄𝒉 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆

A mix of Ginny, Sirius, Luna ... god ... you just have a lot of sides to you. And J. K. Rowling doesn't have a lot of ... diverse characters? I mean there's a lot of characters but they're not multidimensional like the ones in Marvel or HotD. They don't balance light and darkness - they're either good or bad. So I guess you just a mix of so many because you live in the grey.

𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒕

From one of the pet stores in Diagon Alley, your family wanted you to get an owl. But you desired a cat so much. You wanted a pet who could snuggle up to you. Keep you company when people got too much. And although it took your parents a lot of convincing, they finally said yes. But when you went to the pet store, there were no cats left!

Moping, on your way through the cobbled streets, you saw a stray cat. Orange, covered in dirt and missing an eye, you scooped him up and said he was yours.

𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐃

𝑫𝒆𝒔𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏

𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒂 𝒅𝒐𝒖𝒃𝒕 𝑰 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑨𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒂𝒓𝒈𝒂𝒓𝒚𝒆𝒏! He definitely has Scorpio placements. So, he understands the deep desire for connection - one that doesn't start off with small talk. It's all in, straight in. Together.

𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒏𝒔

, In the same way, you're possessive and overprotective, as is he to you

Likes to brush your hair in the evening, it gives him a moment of peace, to focus on something for someone he loves

Defends you against anyone who wants to hurt you, or insults you. Especially his brother, Aegon, who thinks he can say whatever he wants without consequence.

His mother wasn't very happy with you two being together, since he was arranged to marry a Baratheon princess to further the alliance. But Aemond would rather die than not have you

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈

Burning Desire by Lana Del Rey (oh my god Aemond is so Lana Del Rey coded - he is literally bby)

𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔

“Shut Up” x “Make Me”

Snarky Power Couple That Can, And Probably Will, Destroy You

Emotionally Unstable (You) x Also Emotionally Unstable But Tries To Hide It (Aemond)

𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆

Forbidden Love

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖

That you listen to even the smallest detail about someone. What surprised him is that you use it for good - for getting presents and surprising people. Where Aemond would use that for personal gain and to blackmail. You don't. And that surprised him for the better.

𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅

Baela, you like that she challenges you and brings new things into your life. She's very fun and once you had a crush on her - but she didn't have romantic feelings for ... anyone. Man or woman. She was just obsessed with showing up for her family and living her life to the fullest.

𝑾𝒉𝒊𝒄𝒉 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆

A mix between Rhaena and Baela, the girls are opposites. Soft and hard; sweet and sour. But they're both willful and have the blood of both Targaryen and Velaryon. You remind me of them because you seem both strong-willed but have a reasonable side. I think you value logic but have big emotions.

𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒕

Your family married into the Targaryen bloodline, but it wasn't expected that you would have a dragon (even though you wanted so badly to have one.)

It was actually Baela who showed you where a lot of dragons resided on Dragonstone. And you were dared by a lower lordling to find the grumpy old Vermithor and spend ten seconds in his lair. You accepted and within five seconds, the cavern was lit up in flames by the angry old dragon.

In Valyrian, you told him to calm down. When that didn't work, you started calling him names. 'Oh stop it you cranky fool! I am of the blood of Old Valyria and you will not harm me.' Spoken in the Valyrian tongue, Vermithor ... obeyed.

#witchthewriter #match ups #ships #personal aesthetic #hotd pair ups #hotd match ups #harry potter match ups #harry potter pair ups #marvel match up #marvel pair up

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xknivesandpensx · 7 months

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Like Pieces of a Puzzle

Chapter 11

Summary: What if Harry wasn't the only extra student called upon to participate in the Triwizard Tournament? Far from the most popular candidate, Draco not only has to take on the trials but also deal with his unexpected feelings for Hermione. Will he be able to face the challenges as well as follow his heart? Chapter length will vary. I'll be referencing both the books and movie versions. Some things from what I've previously written will be mentioned, all of which you can find here. And for those who asked to be tagged: @dayane245love

Hermione expected Harry not to show up at the Great Hall for breakfast the next morning. She merely went down to talk to Ron, to see if he changed his mind. Clearly, he hadn’t. His overall blunt remarks sent her away from the table. On her way out, she grabbed a napkin, filling it up with pieces of warm toast.

It was hard not to notice Draco as she passed the Slytherins. There he sat, talking to Pansy, going on about the tournament. She looked rather impressed and even reached out and touched his arm while laughing at something he said.

A spike of jealousy hit out of nowhere, almost freezing her in place. Even if he drew away immediately, the feeling burrowed into her stomach. Hermione pressed her lips together, deliberately keeping her gaze forward (repeating ignore the, ignore them, ignore them in her head as if it actually helped).

The portrait swung open when she reached it. Harry had come through and nearly banging into her in the process.

“What happened to your nose?” she questioned. It appeared swollen and possibly broken. Hermione would’ve seen it last night yet by the time everyone stopped crowding him, she already went to bed, growing too tired to wait any longer to talk to him.

Harry dragged his fingers through his already messy hair. He didn’t think it came across too noticeably. “Malfoy and I decided to get into a row. As you can tell, it went real well. I’ve got the blood stains on my shirt to prove it.”

It stopped bleeding when he joined everyone in the common room. No one paid it any mind, too excited to celebrate. The endless questions, arguing with Ron, what he’d give for a normal school year. No danger, no life-threatening situations.

Hermione rose a brow and shoved the toast into his arms. “Honestly, the two of you getting into a fight, I’m sure the professors were displeased.” She grabbed her wand and pointed it at him. “Episkey. That’s better, isn’t it.?”

His nose felt very hot, then cold right before the bone snapped back into place. “Ouch.” He rubbed his hand along his face and the pain started to settle. “Thanks. What’s all this for?”

“I figured you’d avoid people as long as possible so I brought you breakfast,” Hermione replied, now thinking it over. “I should’ve grabbed more. You’re probably really hungry. I could go back. Maybe get some pumpkin juice too.”

“No, this is enough. I appreciate it.” He paused for a second, thinking of someplace quiet to go. The library didn’t allow food and he hardly felt like sitting in the common room. “Want to walk around the lake?”

Hermione nodded. They took many flights of stairs downward before breaking into the chilly morning air. The sound of chirping birds lingered in the background, adding to the peacefulness.

Unable to prevent himself from asking, Harry felt immense relief in hearing how she remained on his side, believing him despite almost everyone else either accusing him for cheating or sending their praises for getting past Dumbledore’s enchantment encircling the Goblet.

“It never entered my mind once,” she clarified, taking a piece of bread. “The same for Draco. I am worried though. The challenges you’ll have to face are dangerous. And I know you’ve managed to get out of horrible situations before, but this is well…”

“Intentional?” Harry specified. “It’s always been in a way, if you think about it. Only this time round it has nothing to do with Voldemort. Cedirc and the others must think I’m a foul git for wedging my way in.”

“I highly doubt it. Well, in Cedric’s case anyway. He doesn’t seem the type.” At least from what she gathered from their brief trek to the portkey together near the end of summer. “I can’t say much for Viktor and Fleur. They might take a while before they realize the truth of the situation.”

“As in someone else really fancied me participating.” Harry nibbled on the crust, trying to get himself to eat despite enduring no sense of hunger. It dissipated soon after getting up. “Dumbledore’s clueless too.”

“What about Professor Moody?” Hermione made sure not to forget to place the inquiry. So far, her suspicion rested on him, yet she attempted to remain open-minded considering how they wrongly accused Snape in the past. “How did he take the whole thing?”

Harry shrugged. “Like everyone else, I suppose. He had a pretty good idea on how, but not so much on who.” He kept his head down, trying to recall the whole conversation.

The commotion fogged most of the specifics. While he no longer suspected Draco, taking into account his lack of motive and the way he acted, he still didn’t consider themselves in the same predicament, not really.

“Has your scar bothered you lately? Any odd dreams?” The thought constantly remained at the back of her mind and the lull of silence provided a good a time as any to get an answer, more of an honest one anyway.

Harry was surprised she remembered provided everything going on, then again, maybe not. He grew used to Hermione’s attentive nature early on. She tended to bring things up too much or at the worst time.

“No pain since the other day,” he confirmed, unwilling to linger on the subject too long. “As for the other, a barely slept last night to find out.”

“And about Ron.” Hermione paused after nodding, tentative to so much as say his name. “Shouldn’t the two of you try to talk? I just know if given a chance, you’ll manage to fix things.”

“I reckon he didn’t make the suggestion. If Ron doesn’t believe me that’s his problem.” Harry grew slightly agitated, already cross that one of his best friends thought so low of him.

“He’s jealous, you know? Try looking at it from his point of view,” Hermione went on to say, disregarding his tone. “It’s not your fault or anything, but you’re always the center of attention and he gets shoved to the side. I’m not saying he’s right to be angry in this particular situation. Although, I do understand why.”

“Well, I’d gladly switch places anytime. He can have a scar on his forehead, making everyone gawk and stare. He can try living with a family who starves him and knocks him about for merely existing. In fact, speaking of the Dursleys, I’m sure they’d be thrilled knowing I’ve managed to put my life in danger again. Probably waiting for the day they get a letter informing them I tragically died so I’m no longer a bother.” Harry chucked a piece of toast, causing a few birds to jump away, before they fluttered back to try and nab the free food. He took a second to collect himself, letting out a heavy breath. “Can we please drop it, Hermione? Regarding Ron, anyway?”

“For now. As for your aunt and uncle. I hate it when you talk like that. I wish things were different, I really do. I’m sure Dumbledore thought they’d take you in properly.” Hermione slowed down, remembering something. She abruptly took hold of his arm, causing him to skid to a stop. “You should write to Sirius. Immediately. He’d want to know.”

Harry regained his footing after nearly losing his balance. “And give him an excuse to show up?” He needed his godfather more than ever, for even his presence would sooth his troubles, but he couldn’t ask for his help. “In case you forgot, the Ministry’s still after him. What good would it do anyone if he got caught and landed back in Azkaban?”

Sirius, not excluding Lupin by any means, remained to be the individual closest to his family left who cared about him in such a way. If only they managed to clear his name, then perhaps living together might not only be a dream they shared and more of a reality.

Hermione let go, coming around to face him fully. “I realize how much he means to you, but he’s going to find out anyway. The whole tournament will be in the Daily Prophet. Especially, seeing as two extra students are now participating. Let him hear it from you.”

Harry reluctantly gave in, aware as much. Although apprehension remained, her logic persisted. “All right, fine. We’ll head to the owlery then.”

Harry insisted on discussing something new, bringing up classes as an alternative as they changed their intended route. When they arrived, he wrote a quick note, using one of the school’s owls instead of Hedwig, as Sirius suggested. She nipped at his fingers again, unhappy to be put aside.

Returning to the grounds, Hermione suggested they remained outside for a little while longer, glad to enjoy the weather. She saw a Draco, flanked by Crabb and Goyle, from afar no more than a few minutes after the proposal left her lips. It got her wondering why he left the attention he gained behind for near solitude. To her surprise, Cedric stood there speaking to the group. He soon noticing the pair heading past and stretched his arm, calling Harry over.

They traveled down the small incline, able to hear the light lapping of water amid a hushed chatter. Now in full view of Draco, she noticed the reddish mark on the side of his face, the light shade suggested the bruise wouldn’t darken much in color. Hermione supposed neither he nor Harry even attempted to see Madam Pomfrey for their injuries.

Cedric tried his best to ignore the evident tension between the two boys, for they exchanged exasperated expressions. Being in his sixth year, he didn’t know much about them, not counting the obvious Boy Who Lived story everyone went on about, especially when he first arrived.

“I’m glad I don’t have to go searching for everyone now.” He was directed outside while looking for Malfoy, yet Harry’s whereabouts were a mystery considering he never came down to breakfast. “Dumbledore asked for all the champions. He said something about a wand weighing ceremony.”

“Meaning he wants to check your wands,” Hermione stated, gaining attention. “It’s a traditional part of the Triwizard Tournament. It’s necessary for them to ensure they’re in perfect functioning condition for the tasks ahead. I read all about it.”

“Real shocking.” Draco hardly meant to say anything at all to her, the words just came out. Which led him to go on, pretending it hadn’t caused his face to heat up. “So busy reading all hours of the day. It’s no wonder you prattle on and on. As if anyone actually cares what you know.”

He avoided calling her a Mudblood (almost slipping while in need to dig the insult in a bit more) on the account of Cedric being a Prefect. Why unnecessarily loose points or get detention?

All the while, Draco tried desperately to prevent his gaze from lingering. He failed miserably given how the sun shined like a halo from behind her head, providing a soft glow against her brown hair, highlighting her features perfectly.

She had no right to stand there in such a captivating manner.

“At least Hermione spends her time learning things,” Harry defended, returning the glare Draco sent his way. “Can’t say much about you.”

Cedric moved between them, intervening before things escalated. “Let’s not have a repeat of last night. Besides, everyone’s waiting on us. I’m sure Viktor and Fleur are already there.”

Draco rolled his eyes prior to gesturing for Crabbe and Goyle to stay, no longer in need of their company, much less the pointless babble. He trailed behind, not noticing Hermione slow her pace until she fell in line right next to him.

“It might be smart of you to know a little more about what you’ve gotten into, don’t you think?” she questioned, trying to hide the apprehension building inside. His insults were expected but she refused to be fazed by them. Her worry for him and Harry mattered more than his callous ridicules.

“Trying to give me advice? You’ve got to be joking.” He sidestepped the slightest bit, falling straight into a jealousy complaint. “You and Potter looked quite cozy this morning. You must feel terrible having your little romantic stroll ruined.”

Draco noticed how close they were. With Ron nowhere in sight either. The idea of it irked him, it blatantly caused a layer of vexation to wash over.

“And you must feel completely awful tearing yourself away from Pansy. Her concern is ever so present.” The counter surprised even herself, not intending to match his (assumedly) taunting joke by means of something she meant to keep concealed.

Hermione inwardly chastised herself and dashed ahead, accidently brushing his shoulder in the process. Before he had a moment to consider the comment, a spark jumped up his arm. It sent his thoughts reeling, rattling every nerve in his body. Just how much longer did he have to ignore the pulsating, affection driven ache in his chest before it disappeared for good?

He knew disregarding his feelings proved useless though, they’d likely drive him mad if he carried on this way. Did he have to take some drastic measures to force them aside? All Draco knew for sure was he needed to figure out a solution and fast.

#dramione #draco malfoy #hermione granger #harry potter #the goblet of fire #i read it over so much yet never feel like it's done XD #but that big storm is heading my way #and i want to post this sooner rather than later #nice comments are always appreciated #sorry for any spelling or grammar mistakes

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iclaimedtobethebetterbard · 2 years

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if you’re going my way, i’ll go with you - chapter 10

Fandom: Sanders Sides Characters: All the sides, character!Thomas, minor/background OCs Rating: Teen & up Relationships: Analogical, platonic/parental Prinxiety and Logince Warnings: Language, discussion of child abuse established in previous chapters. Word count: 3746

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Chapter 10

Virgil closed the door behind them. “Okay.” He immediately began pacing around the room. “You might be mad at me. But I’m not changing my mind.”

“About what, precisely?” Logan inquired, taking a seat in the armchair in the corner.

Virgil stopped pacing, faced Logan, and drew in a long breath. “I’m not sending Roman back to his parents.”

Logan was silent, waiting for the exposition that was undoubtedly about to be provided.

“I mean, I’ve been worried something was wrong for a while now,” Virgil went on, resuming his pacing and gesturing to emphasize his words as he spoke. “But I know I overthink things, so I wasn’t sure I was thinking clearly at first. But after yesterday I was pretty certain. And now I know, and I won’t send him back to them. I won’t let them near him, actually. Ever again, if I can help it. Not unless I see some solid proof that it’s safe to do so. Which at this point I would be shocked by. He says he doesn’t think he’s safe with them. And that they’re transphobic and anti-super. And that they keep him home from school as a form of punishment. And—“

“Virgil,” Logan interjected. This was getting out of hand.

Virgil cut off with a sharp inhale. “What?”

“I believe you have adequately made your point and are now working yourself up.”

“Sorry. Sorry. I just—“ Virgil dragged a hand over his face. “He spent twenty seconds on the phone with his dad and then had a panic attack. Because his dad was cursing him out. Which Roman told me is normal. What kind of person would do that? To their own kid? When he’d gone missing after a villain attack, no less!”

Logan’s heart clenched in his chest. “That… is highly disturbing,” he acknowledged, his voice not quite as even as he was usually able to keep it.

“So I’m not sending him back. He said he wants to stay here. I have the space, and time, and resources, to take care of him.” Virgil crossed his arms. “I don’t care if it’s technically kidnapping, I will fight you if you try and make me send him away.”

Logan waited a beat to ensure Virgil had said his piece. “Why would I do that?” he asked once he was certain it was his turn.

“Uh.” Virgil seemed caught off-guard. “…Because you said last night that you ‘couldn’t let that slide’ and would have to interfere if I didn’t send him back?”

“You will recall that that was before I learned the details about his home life,” Logan pointed out. “Of course I agree that the right course of action is to remove a child from an abusive situation, Virgil.”

“…Oh,” said Virgil, in a tone that suggested he now felt very stupid.

Logan gave him a small smile of reassurance. “I would advise that we look into whether he has family members who could adequately care for him before determining to care for him here,” he suggested, “but I agree that it is more than reasonable to protect him from his parents given the circumstances.”

Virgil huffed slightly at Logan’s suggestion, but relaxed nonetheless. “Alright.” He crossed his arms. “But he said he wants to stay here.”

“Nevertheless, I would strongly advise that we check if he has safe family members. At the very least they should be informed of his situation. And it might be better for him, much as I can see you dislike this idea.” Logan rather disliked the idea himself, but he was of the opinion that his feelings ranked far below a child’s wellbeing.

Virgil frowned. “Fine. If it makes you happy.”

“It will indeed,” Logan said. “Is there anything else?”

“Oh.” Virgil picked something up off the dresser. “Would you take this and see if there’s actually any sort of tracking installed on it?” He pressed the item, which turned out to be a flip phone, into Logan’s hands. “His dad threatened him with it. If that wasn’t just empty talk, can you disable any GPS or anything?”

“Certainly.” Logan pocketed the phone. “If I can make use of one of your workshops, it should take me no more than ten minutes.”

“Good. Great. Thank you. And you can give it back to him when you’re done. I mean, obviously I’m getting him a better one, but I don’t want to take anything away from him.” Virgil made as if to head for the door, then paused. “Oh, and another thing, he said this morning that he wants to go on puberty blockers, but I’d appreciate it if you’d talk with him about it too. You know more about it than I do.”

“Certainly,” Logan repeated. He raised his voice a bit. “Shall we go attend to that, then?”

Virgil blinked, clearly confused by the change in Logan’s tone, even as Logan heard the tiniest scuffing noise in the hall outside, confirming his suspicions. It was quiet enough that he was sure he would not have heard it if he had not been paying close attention.

“…Sure?” Virgil said. “What was that for?”

Logan beckoned him over. “I am almost certain that Roman was listening at the door,” he murmured when Virgil drew close. “I thought it best to alert him to leave, so that he would not fear he would be ‘caught.’”

“Oh. Ohhh,” Virgil said. “Cool. Got it.”

By the time Virgil and Logan made their way out to the living room, Roman was sitting on the couch, the picture of innocence, seeming totally absorbed in his show.

Logan sat beside him. “Roman. May I have a word with you?”

“Sure,” Roman said, reaching at once for the remote and pausing the show. “What’s up?”

Logan considered the order he wished to present his questions in. The discussion about puberty blockers would probably take longer, and was to his mind slightly less pressing. It could wait for a little while—after dinner might be an ideal time to go over it. By process of elimination, that left—“Do you have family members other than your parents?”

Roman froze, stiffening, and his face went blank. “No.”

Logan paused, evaluating this reaction, then tried again. “It’s fine if you don’t want to be around them. You don’t have any extended family?”

Roman bit his lip, looking very anxious indeed. “I… think I had a Gran,” he said after a minute. “But she died when I was really little.”

Logan got the distinct impression that Roman was holding something back. “No aunts or uncles?” he prodded. “No other grandparents?”

Roman shook his head, relaxing, and spoke much more readily. “Dad doesn’t have brothers or sisters.”

“What about your mother?” Logan inquired. “Does she have relations?”

Roman hesitated, but still showed none of the uneasiness of a moment ago. “I… dunno. She gets mad if I ask.”

“Hm.” Logan considered this. “And you have no other family relations that you know of?”

Roman’s face went blank again and the stiffness returned to his shoulders. “No,” he insisted, much more firmly. He avoided Logan’s gaze.

Logan hesitated for a long moment. “Very well,” he said at last, not particularly happy to let the matter go but not willing to push Roman further when he was so clearly unwilling to talk about whatever on earth was making him react in this way. “Would you like me to investigate your mother’s family connections?”

Roman hesitated, then shook his head. “I want to stay here,” he said in a small voice. “I don’t want to go away. I wouldn’t even know those people if you found them.”

“Cool. You’re staying, then,” Virgil interjected firmly.

“Virgil….” Logan sighed.

“What? He answered your questions. He wants to stay here. I want him to stay here. I can tell you want him to stay here, too. So what’s the problem?”

“Well—“ Logan paused to consider. “This is not an objectionable situation,” he admitted. “I just want to make sure that we are all confident this is the best option for Roman.”

“Great,” Virgil said. “He’s staying. Roman, we’ll sort out school stuff—normal school and Brennan—tomorrow, sound good? And we can go shopping. Make sure you have everything you need. Good plan?”

Roman, eyes wide, nodded. “Really good plan.”

“Great,” Virgil repeated. He let out a long sigh, relaxing. “I don’t know about you all, but I’m exhausted. I’m ordering takeout for dinner. Do either of you have opinions on what we should get?”

“Can we get pizza?” Roman asked at once, looking delighted. “With lots of stuff on it?”

“Babe, does pizza sound good?” Virgil inquired, in a tone that suggested pizza ought to be the best food Logan could imagine eating right now.

Logan rolled his eyes, not without amusement. He had been aware that Virgil was good with children, but to see him take this quickly to fatherhood was still fascinating. “I have no objections to pizza.”

“Great. Let me see what the options are.” Virgil pulled out his phone, and when Roman perked up and strained to see, laughed and beckoned him over, letting the boy watch as he scrolled through different pizzerias.

Over dinner, as Roman peppered both Virgil and Logan with questions about super school in between tremendous bites of pizza, Logan was struck with the thought that Roman would undoubtedly get along well with Patton. And further, that it might be beneficial to Roman to have some specific connection to help him start making friends at Brennan.

Introducing Roman to his nephew could be a highly beneficial act for both the children. He would just have to get Janus on board with this idea. Which would be difficult, as Roman was now under Virgil’s care, and Janus was absolutely unwilling to allow Virgil and Patton to interact for any reason. They had a dislike for Virgil that was, in Logan’s opinion, entirely petty and unreasonable, and she had forbidden him from so much as mentioning anything about Patton to Virgil as a result. No amount of arguing had thus far been able to change her mind, so Logan would have his work cut out for him. But for Roman’s sake, it would certainly be worth it, so Logan began sorting through possible arguments he could make to Janus.

Tomorrow was Saturday, and Janus had been wanting him to resume his participation in Saturday dinners at her house. Perhaps Janus would be happy enough at Logan acquiescing to his request to actually hear out his idea, rather than shutting it down the moment the topic of Virgil came up.

However, dinner at Saturday was a casual event. No super personas involved. And Remus was now a participant. Remus, who knew Dr. Logic, but not Logan Crofter.

But he did trust Remus. He was quite fond of the young man. He had no objection to Remus knowing him in a more personal capacity, in an abstract sense. It was just telling him that was an (annoyingly large) emotional stumbling block.

Well. He had come out to and shared his name with one new person already today, for the first time in years. What was one more?

Logan pulled out his phone and shot off a text to Janus before he could change his mind. I’ll be there at about 5:30 tomorrow. Is there anything you would like me to bring?

The reply—or, rather, replies—were nearly instantaneous:

!!!!!

Fuck I loooove being right

U should just start agreeing w whatever I say all the time it’ll be great for my ego

Anyway uhh idk. Wine?

Oh wait Remus doesn’t rlly drink tho

So maybe like. Idk bread or something

Or any side dish u want idk

I’m making a casserole and Remus is bringing dessert, if that helps

Also I’m not telling him or Patton ur coming I wanna see the looks on their faces

Logan shook his head and rolled his eyes, smiling to himself. He tapped out a single response—Very well, see you tomorrow.—and shut off his phone, running through potential side dishes he could bring.

“What’s so funny, babe?” Virgil asked.

“Hm?” Logan realized he was still smiling. “Oh. Nothing. I was simply amused by something a friend texted me.”

“You guys have friends?” Roman asked around a mouthful of pizza. His eyes widened. “Wait—wait, that sounded really bad, I’m sorry, that’s not what I meant, I’m sorry, I’m sorry—!”

Virgil, who had choked on his water laughing, composed himself and ruffled the little boy’s hair. “You’re good, kid.” He gestured at Logan. “Mostly he’s the one who’s got friends, I’m a bit of a loner. And kind of obviously recognizable, even with the suit off. But L’s all popular, I swear he introduces me to someone new every time I see him.”

“If you actually spent time with my friends long enough to get to know them, you would remember them, and stop thinking I am introducing you to new people,” Logan interjected patiently.

“Well, I prefer to leave before we reach the ‘awkward questions about me’ stage,” Virgil said. This was, admittedly, fair; most, if not all, of Logan’s friends had guessed that his boyfriend was the Nightmare. Amusingly, this provided excellent cover for his own secret identity—his friends all thought they had figured out Logan’s big secret, so they did not look for anything else he might be hiding.

“I am just saying, this is a problem you create for yourself,” Logan said.

“Yeah, probably true.” Virgil shrugged with an amused smile.

When dinner was done, Virgil shooed Logan and Roman out of the kitchen. “Roman, we can watch one episode of your show before bedtime,” he instructed. “I’ll throw the dishes in the dishwasher, you pull it up, mmkay?”

Roman, practically vibrating with excitement, snatched the remote up at once. “Did you know, um—” he began, looking beseechingly at Logan, his words blurring together into barely-comprehensible happiness. “Did you know I only saw a little bit of this show before? My friend Cathy showed me some, but I couldn’t see it any other time because I had to be careful, but Cathy got me some stickers of the characters and I kept them at school, and she and me talk a bunch about it at school and she did tell me some spoilers because I didn’t think I’d ever get to see more. I’m so excited to tell her I get to watch it all now! And um, she’s bi, but she’s keeping it a secret, so she can still be friends with me, and now I guess probably she doesn’t have to keep it secret anymore, which is pretty cool.” He sucked in a huge breath.

Logan, who was becoming more and more struck by the similarities between this boy and Patton the more he interacted with Roman, gently nudged the remote clasped in the child’s hands to point towards the television. “Which episode are you on?”

“Oh!” Roman began clicking buttons, his focus successfully redirected. “I forget the number but I know it.”

Virgil slid into the spot beside Logan on the couch, wrapping an arm around his waist and planting a soft kiss to his cheek. “One episode,” he reminded Roman. “Then bedtime.”

“Mmhm!” Roman pressed play and passed the remote to Virgil, kicking his feet excitedly.

Logan curled more securely against Virgil’s side, watching the fond expression on his partner’s face as he engaged in gentle banter with Roman throughout the episode. The boy was absolutely basking in the positive attention, fidgeting happily, his attention wavering rapidly back and forth between the television and Virgil’s amused comments. By the time the credits rolled across the screen, Roman seemed highly energized, beaming ear to ear and bouncing in place. Hardly in the right frame of mind to be sent to bed.

“That was so fun!” he enthused as Virgil navigated back to the home screen.

“It sure was, kid,” Virgil said in a tone of pure indulgence. “What was your favorite part?”

“All of it,” Roman declared at once. “It was so good, can we watch more?”

“Tomorrow we can,” Virgil promised. “For now I want you to brush your teeth, mmkay?”

Roman stilled his bouncing, seeming less than impressed with this compromise. “Okayyy,” he agreed after a minute.

“Cool.” Virgil offered him a high-five as the boy got to his feet. Roman brightened at this, smacking his hand against Virgil’s and scampering down the hall to his room.

“You’re being awfully quiet,” Virgil commented, turning his attention fully to Logan.

“Hmm.” Logan tipped his face to nestle in the crook of Virgil’s neck. “I am simply unwinding. It was a long day.”

“I mean, I wouldn’t know, seeing as I was out cold for a chunk of it,” Virgil teased, a laugh barely stifled in his voice. He rubbed large circles into Logan’s back.

“That was the most practical course of action on my part,” Logan defended, though his voice came out muffled and soft, melting against his boyfriend at the caresses.

Virgil didn’t bother to muffle his snicker at that. “I see. Care to break that down for me?”

Logan huffed at the teasing. He shifted in order to free up his hands and tick items off on his fingers, without ceasing cuddling Virgil. “You are known for running a remarkably peaceful community of villains,” he explained. “Exceptions to that rule are things I am expected to intervene in. However, I was disinclined to protect that man from you, for obvious reasons. Therefore, intervening after your fight concluded was the most beneficial path. Which meant I needed to conclude the interaction quickly and concisely to make up for the time I had spent not intervening. Therefore, obviously, removing you from the picture for a brief time, and using the time without opposition to reclaim a variety of tech from the lair, was the most acceptable outcome for me in terms of optics.”

“I see.” Virgil kissed his temple, his tone still lightly teasing. “And the little seduction scheme you used to pull that off?”

“Oh. That was for fun.” Logan shrugged. “And I wanted to see if it would work.”

“Well. You’re very smart.” Virgil kissed him, a brief tender peck on the lips. “But it won’t work next time.”

“It absolutely will,” Logan said assuredly.

“Hey!” Virgil shoved him playfully. “I wouldn’t fall for something twice.”

“Really?” Logan blinked up at him innocently through his eyelashes. “May I have another kiss, beloved?” he asked in his sweetest, most besotted tone of voice, the one that almost always got Virgil to do exactly what Logan wanted.

Virgil visibly struggled for a moment. “That’s not fair,” he said plaintively. “How am I supposed to not kiss you when you’re all handsome and perfect like that?”

Logan allowed himself a triumphant grin. “Exactly. I win.”

Virgil laughed and surged forward, kissing Logan bright and warm and pressing him against the sofa cushions, his hands so gentle where they cupped Logan’s waist. Logan reached up to cradle the back of Virgil’s head in his hands, kissing back with satisfaction and relaxing in his grasp.

“You’re incorrigible,” Virgil told him fondly, breaking the kiss only to press his forehead to Logan’s and rub their noses together.

“I still win,” Logan informed him, feeling very smug indeed.

Virgil chuckled. “Fine. Fine. If that’s what makes you happy.”

Logan slid his hands down to clasp around the back of Virgil’s neck. “It is.” He found himself unable to suppress the smile spreading across his face, not that he would have wanted to.

Virgil smiled back, leaning in to kiss him again, this time soft and gentle. “Love you,” he murmured.

“And I, you,” Logan returned.

There was the tiniest creak of a door from down the hallway, and Virgil immediately glanced over, sitting back up and letting go of Logan as Roman padded carefully down the hall. The little boy had changed into pajamas while he was gone, too, without even being prompted. He hesitated at the edge of the hall, not quite stepping out into the living room.

“You all ready for bed, bud?” Virgil inquired, holding out a hand invitingly.

Roman nodded, taking the invitation and crossing the room to Logan and Virgil. “I brushed my teeth like you said,” he reported. “And I put my clothes in the hamper.” He stifled a yawn; he seemed to have calmed down considerably from the excited state he’d been in at the end of the TV episode.

“What a responsible little man,” Virgil told Roman approvingly. “Is there anything else you need before bedtime?”

“Or want,” Logan interjected, seeing the hesitation and uncertainty building on Roman’s face at Virgil’s phrasing.

“Yes. Or want,” Virgil agreed.

Roman considered this, then shook his head. “I don’t think so.”

“A glass of water?” Logan suggested.

Roman perked up. “Water would be nice.”

When the water had been acquired and Roman had bid Virgil and Logan a very polite little goodnight before retreating to his room, the two men made their way back to the couch. “Are you planning on staying the night again?” Virgil inquired hopefully.

Logan nestled against him. “Please.”

“Good.” Virgil laced their fingers together. “Movie night?” he suggested.

Roman had been put to bed at a much more reasonable time than the previous night. It wasn’t even ten yet. Even considering how much there was to do tomorrow, there was certainly time. “Yes,” Logan decided. “I want to see that new one, about what the world would be like without supers.”

“And you’re going to tell me all about how wrong the fake science is.” Virgil sounded amused by this prospect, reaching for the remote and pulling up the requested film—a recent release they’d both been somewhat curious about.

“Yes. I will tell you all about how wrong it is,” Logan confirmed, allowing Virgil to drape the throw blanket about the pair of them. He placed one hand on Virgil’s cheek and tugged him down, guiding him into a slow and lazy kiss.

“I look forward to it,” Virgil said in a low voice that was barely above a whisper, wrapping his arms a little more securely around Logan.

Logan suspected Virgil was referring to his presence more than conversation about the movie, but, well, he hardly had reason to complain about that.

After all, he felt much the same way.

Taglist (ask to be added/removed!): @theimprobabledreamersworld @the-sympathetic-villain @just-a-little-anxious @your-local-crackhead-gremlin @remy-the-lemon-berry @midnightstorm-underthe-moon @crazydemigod666 @did-he-just-hiss-at-me @virgil-is-verge @simplestoryteller @oblivionartworks @so-youre-a-rock-with-issues @emoprincey @theblackcatscratchpost @biwithapie @poettheythem

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ram-reads · 2 years

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Blue Period follows Yatora Yaguchi, a high schooler who has no passions and is just going through the motions. His only goal in life is to get into a good college and pursue a career where he’ll earn a lot of money, but that goal is just to keep his parents happy. He holds absolutely no interest in art until one day his art teacher motivates him to use his art as a way to communicate how he feels. When he does that he ends up loving how it makes him feel and for the first time in his life he becomes passionate about something. So begins his life of increasing his skills in the art club to prepare for the entrance exams for the Tokyo University of the Arts, the most competitive art school in Japan. I ended up liking this manga a lot more than I thought I would. I was immediately drawn in by Yaguchi’s predicament. I believe everyone always feels the pressure in high school of choosing a career path that is typically deemed as “successful”. Art is usually not one of those paths. I remember hearing from many of my teachers that any sort of art degree is worthless. That really isn’t true though, and I appreciated how this manga shows that art is a valid career. I especially liked it when it pointed out that there is no guarantee that you’ll get a job no matter what you study in college, so why not choose a career path that follows your passions? I used to draw all the time when I first started college, but I haven’t felt motivated in years. This manga has helped inspire me though. It’s also surprisingly informative and has shown me that there’s a lot I don’t know about art, but if I put in the time and study I can get better. I’m actually jealous of Yaguchi because I wish I had his art teacher in high school. She teaches her students important art concepts in a way that makes sense, she actually critiques their work and gives advice so they can improve, and she challenges her students. This is everything I’ve always wanted from an art teacher, but I’ve never gotten it. I wish I could manifest her into the real world so she could teach me too! Another reason I enjoyed this manga is because of the characters. Yaguchi was a great protagonist. I liked how he was presented as a delinquent and he is one, but at the same time he’s also really smart and kind to others. The other character I really liked was Yuka-chan, a crossdressing classmate who butts heads with Yaguchi a lot. I liked their dynamic and I’m curious to learn more about Yuka-chan’s background. There were other characters too and I liked all of them. The art club Yaguchi joins consists of a diverse group of people, and I’m glad none of them got stereotyped. There’s one character, Umino, who is an otaku that likes to draw manga but they’re actually taken seriously and not made out to be weird. I was glad to see that for once. For a manga about art the art style is as good as you would expect. The character designs all felt different from each other so each character stood out in their own way. My favorite part was their facial expressions. What stood out the most to me though was that the mangaka uses other artist’s work within the story to represent each character’s art styles. This makes sense because if the mangaka drew each character’s art pieces they would probably all look similar. The mangaka does credit each artist by the panel their work appears in and again at the end of the manga. Blue Period did everything right in my book. It had a plot that spoke to me, interesting and diverse characters that I quickly grew attached to, and beautiful art. I wish my bookstore had the next volume so I could read it right away!

#book review #book reviews #manga review #manga reviews #blue period #kodansha manga #booklr #book recs #book recommendations #manga recs #manga recommendations #2021 reads #5 stars #my reviews

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traumasurvivorshelpingsurvivors · 1 year

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TW: cancer, illness, hospital mention, death child abuse and all that follows

I'm the Anon who talked about c-ptsd symptoms and "only imagining the darkness as a child." You can tag me as "🌱☔️"!

(Vent)

In the last two years I went through great healing - I finally got friends and they showed me a completely different perspective on life (earlier I only had friends who themselves were in genuinely hard situations [depression, abuse, etc.]) I found role models and inspiration, new interests, and finally got access to some of the basic resources I didn't have as a child.

I slowly started to acknowledge my pain and step by step started to grow. About a month ago I even got to reveal it to two of my close friends (separately), of whom I knew that they (although they wanted to) couldn't understand me without having some of that "background information." One broke down crying, saying that she only now did understand many things looking back, and the other was sincerely shook, saying that he "will need to process that." For neither of them did I include the actually painful details, I only barely mentioned how my Dad's father was neglectful and sometimes aggressive, and how my Dad adapted and justified his ideology so he doesn't have to face the painful past and admit that the way his parents treated him wasn't right. He was harsh and extremely critical (and physically neglectful!) both towards us and himself and hated all emotions - he almost only let himself feel "righteous rage" against his and our imperfectness. He knew that he was intelligent, (he truly was!) so he tried to prove his worth by doing something great for the world - but he never got to achieve his dream. Three months ago, in October, he died of cancer. (It was the very same type his father had died of.) He was only a few years older than 50.

[Once I brought him food to the hospital and he was sitting on his bed and nudged me to take care, and dress up warmly, because "it is cold in here" (he was by then constantly freezing of fever), worried for me not to catch a cold - he wasn't ever so gentle before. 😢 ]

It's a tragedy. I did love him, despite all - in the whole world, I was probably the closest to him and understood him the most. I was always the translator and advocate between my parents and even my little brother. I was always there to listen and even managed to break the ice a little so he accepted some caring from me.

Our lives (sadly but undeniably) got a lot more peaceful since then, Mom started to slowly heal as well (hallelujah!) (her family was nothing ideal either, but I won't go into details...) and is a lot more kinder now and I'm truly happy that she is getting better. Now we really have a lot better relationship and I'm glad to be 18, because now she doesn't treat me as a traitor, or as a child who's wrong by default, but as a friend. (Yess! Life goals!)

The original idea I started to type upon was that even though I acknoweledged the pain earlier, recently I reconsidered and all my "trauma" was because I was a selfish and self-centered child (nor this nor the opposite can be proved). My Mom used to say that I was "very good at self-pity" and that I "didn't have much empathy." Now, that really hurts, if it's true, because all I ever defined myself by was my will to help people (back then by self-sacrifice). And now I'm just facing the reality that all I have experienced as "traumatic" was because I took all that my parents said to heart (threats and "creative punishments" I don't even know I remember right, [Mom doesn't] but that made me believe that all I ever have can be taken away at any given moment and it's only their mercy that it isn't) or because I was indeed a horrible kid as a 4 years old so much that they could only deal with me this way??? I will never understand. I only know my "symptoms", the comics I drew and the bed time story I told myself all about escaping (to a forest, to a hospital with an illness or because of getting hurt, being homeless, getting into a children's home, etc.) and going away so I won't burden them. I never wanted to burden them! Why are children burden to their families...

I'm still pretty harsh on myself, especially lately. Also, I got to reunite with a friend of mine who was also abused and just moved away from home, but the way she told me her story, made me see my experience a lot less significant.

Thank you for patiently listening! Just writing it out helped put things right in my head already.

BTW thank you for all you do!! You don't even realize how much it means for many of us! 💖

I wish you all the bests!

Hi 🌱☔️,

First of all I'm so glad to hear about your healing journey. I'm also so sorry for your loss, but I'm glad to hear that your relationship with your mother has improved.

I think it's a little ridiculous that you've been made to feel like you were a "selfish" or "self-centered" child, because you were a child. As children we can really only process things in the context of ourselves, you know? We've just began to navigate the world, and the self is the only thing we know to be true, so it can be what's used to measure against other things, you know? I feel like anyone who suggests you should've known better, or that you should've had more empathy, especially at 4, doesn't really understand childhood development. I also want to suggest that if you were a "horrible" kid at 4 years old then it's indicative that something was impacting you.

Please know that trauma is not defined by what happened, it's defined by its effect on you. In other words, no matter what happened, if you were traumatized by it, then it's valid trauma. What happened is important, but it doesn't determine whether or not you're "rightfully" traumatized. That's because our brains, genes, environment, and other factors are all so different that people are going to psychologically respond to the same situation on different levels. Some people may not find a particular incident traumatic while another may be deeply disturbed, and that's okay.

I often find that comparing your trauma to others just minimizes your own trauma, and that can feel bad. It's important to remember that comparing your trauma to others is usually not conducive to healing. Your trauma is significant to you just as your friend's trauma is significant to her. You may be going through different things, but your trauma and what you're going through as a result is still worth examining and healing from. Your trauma is valid.

It's definitely easier said than done, but it may be worth working on being kinder to yourself. You've been through a lot, you're going through a lot, and as a survivor, you owe it to yourself to give yourself a break, you know?

I hope I could help. Please let us know if you need anything.

-Bun

#mod bun #trauma talks #🌱☔️#tw abuse #tw child abuse #tw emotional abuse #tw death

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aerinis · 4 months

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Doing my belated 2023 art review. Putting it below a read more because a lot of stuff happened this year and some of it is kind of heavy.

2023 was a pretty good year for me, both personally and artistically. I had a couple of annoying minor medical issues that I'm still dealing with, but I'd say I was able to maintain my goal of drawing at least one little doodle a day for most of the year. I will say though that the vast majority of what I drew this year - probably like 95% - was personal art. Hopefully someday I'll be satisfied enough with it to post it. I'd also like to spend 2024 focusing more on painting and practicing landscapes. I spent the first three months of the year working on a piece for a local art gallery competition, which actually ended up getting accepted and subsequently spent the rest of the year touring around the state in several different exhibitions. That introduced me to the wonderful world of trying to figure out how the hell digital prints and shipping work, but everything turned out fine in the end. It remains the largest piece I've ever made at 18"x24", and hopefully once I get it shipped back to me I'll be sending it off to my parents. I also found out that I HATE writing artist's statements, like fuck off you don't need to know my background, just interpret the piece however. I'd like to post here, but I want to make sure first that it hasn't been uploaded to the internet by any of the galleries since I'd like to keep my personal info off this blog lmao What's funny is that I feel like I've come so far as an artist ever since I submitted that piece, that every time I look at the B-grade prints I have lying around I'm like "oh my god this looks terrible, I can't believe this got accepted". I guess that's just what being an artist is like Following that, I took the next month off from art, which was a nice little break. I did a bunch of art parties in FFXIV, which are always great for improving, because as counter-intuitive as it seems the best way to get good at art is to be forced to draw a whole bunch of different things under strict time limits. I feel like I can definitely see my lineart improving as the months go on. I also started working more with color, my eternal nemesis, and I'm hoping next year I can really start to nail down a style. I did Art Fight for the first time ever in July and it ROCKED, definitely going to do it again this year and I'm still pretty proud of the drawings I did. I love an event where it's socially acceptable for me to draw people's OCs. I think I'll probably focus on doing more WoW OCs this year. Unfortunately July is the busiest month for me at work, where I'm waking up at 5AM for basically the entire month straight and working in 100+ degree weather, so we'll see if I can maintain the energy for it.

And now the heavy stuff. Some of you might know that I'm pretty involved in the secret finding community in WoW, and back during BFA when we spent 11.5 months trying to find Jenafur, I did paint-overs of a bunch of cat memes to try and keep spirits up during the hunt. Unfortunately, the Make-A-Wish kid who created the pet ended up passing away in April. You can read about her life here in this article that will make you want to guillotine a chemical executive, and this older interview from 2020 about the secret. But what really got to me was this one line from the PCGames interview:

And like, I don't want to be presumptuous but like. I think she was talking about my art. Every time I posted on she'd comment on it, and she even DMed me about them. This line fucking destroyed me. I'm not even going to exaggerate. For several days after we found out about her death I was a wreck. The thought that my silly little drawings actually had an impact on someone and made their life a little brighter just ruined me. The bill she was fighting for ended up passing, and I hope that someday the idea of 'forever chemicals' will cease to exist.

Downer ending but I'm kind of too bummed out to write more

#my art

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doodletoodle-blog1 · 7 years

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these boys are criminal masterminds *:･ﾟ✧

#fahc #fahc art #fa #rtah #fake ah crew #achievement hunter #criminal masterminds #can you believe i actually drew a background for once in my life #my art

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reverie-starlight · 2 years

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{vulnerable- haikyuu boy of your choice}

This might be one of my favourite things I've ever written. Maybe.

------------------------------------------------------------ Genre: F L U F F (comfort)

Warnings: none really, just some mentions about low self esteem, and mental health issues, but it's brief.

Reader: Gender Neutral! (But I did write it super late, based on a scenario I was thinking up, so if there's any specific terms used, lmk and I'll edit it!)

Character: any haikyuu boy (fun fact: I pictured Osamu while writing it)

Summary: vulnerability is hard for you, but late nights like these with your boyfriend make you emotional. Who could you trust enough to be vulnerable with if not him?

Notes: I literally wrote this at 3:30 a.m. and I only proof read it once, so there's probably some mistakes!! Also this absolutely stemmed from listening to People Watching by Conan Gray.

*once again cross posted from my wattpad*

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

Your faces were centimeters apart, his hand cupped your cheek and you could feel his thumb as it ran back and forth over your skin, along your cheekbone.

Eyes were locked and the only emotion you could detect from him was one so very pure. He was so full of love, that you knew there was no possible room for the darkness you had grown so used to searching for in people over the years.

This was good. It was right. You were safe.

You were overcome with such a strong wave of emotions that you sucked in a breath.

You were sure that if you had been standing, it would've knocked you right over.

You didn't question whether or not he'd be there to help you back up.

His other hand, previously rubbing up and down your back, came up to stroke your hair. To calm you.

The soft music playing in the background was interrupted by your next few words.

"Can I be vulnerable for a minute?"

You broke eye contact as you said it. Feelings and eye contact at the same time were not a strong suit of yours.

"Of course you can, my love."

You gave a slight smile at the term of endearment and fiddled with the front of his shirt. You always seemed to busy your hands while having conversations such as these.

You were a decent communicator, so it wasn't as if this was your first time opening up to him emotionally. However, it always took some effort from both you and him in order to coax you out of your head and actually do the communicating.

Vulnerability was just hard for you, despite how much of an emotional person you were. You wanted to talk to people and have them understand, but the thought of setting yourself up for hurt scared you.

"I just... um..." you started off quiet- quieter than you intended.

He drew back the hand on your head and threw it over your side again to reach your back, letting you know he was still there.

"I just never thought I'd have this."

Your eyes flitted up to briefly meet his.

He looked at you with so much tenderness and care that you started to tear up.

"I never thought that I'd have someone in my life in this way. I had convinced myself that there was no one out there for me. I always feared that I'd be alone for the rest of my life while everyone else moved on with theirs." You sniffled a bit and balled his shirt in your fist.

"I thought I was unlovable." You could feel the tears spill over but he was quick to wipe them away.

"I genuinely believed that I was just never meant to be loved by anyone, that I wasn't allowed to have someone to love. That no one would ever look at me and find comfort or feel love- that I was undeserving of anyone seeing me that way. I hated myself that much."

He never stopped looking at you. He payed close attention to what you were saying and it made you warm inside.

"I just... I don't know, I'm just so grateful to have you in my life. Like, you will never know the true extent of how grateful I am to be loved by you, or how blessed I feel to have the chance to love you. You completely shut down all those thoughts I had. To have this with someone at all is amazing but I know I can't have it with anyone else- it's not possible. You're it for me."

You hadn't realized he started crying until you looked back up at him to say those four words.

Your turn to wipe away his tears. You had one last thing to say to him though.

"I'd wait forever and a day to have this if it meant always having it with you. You made the wait well worth it, my dear. Thank you for loving me. And for letting me love you. You've made me so happy."

He wrapped you up in the tightest hug you've ever received. Small sniffles could be heard from both of you, shirts were getting wet and limbs were getting numb but neither of you cared.

He pulled away just enough so that he could lean his forehead against yours. A small noise and a soft ouch upon contact made the two of you giggle a bit.

"I love you so much baby. So much it scares me, sometimes. I can't believe I get the honor of loving someone as incredible as you. I'm never gonna take that for granted. You're it for me, too."

You turned your head to the side and buried it into your arm so he couldn't see your shy grin.

He figured now that the overly emotional part was done, you'd want a distraction so you didn't worry about changing the mood of the night. He didn't mind giving you that.

So he gave a soft laugh and kissed your cheek. "You're so adorable."

You could feel your face getting hot and pure happiness start to bubble up, so you hid your face more and tried to turn.

He laughed louder this time and tried to stop you from turning around to hide completely. "Stop, let me compliment you!"

"No! You're gonna make me a pile of mush, do you really want that?"

"My love, you're still always going to be the sweetest thing I've ever laid eyes on. Pile of mush or not."

"Oh my God, shut up."

You struggled a bit, all the while laughing with him, which made it difficult to fight him off.

Eventually he managed to keep you facing him, and his attack of compliments and praises continued until you were indeed a metaphorical pile of mush in his arms.

You sighed when a familiar, comfortable silence washed over the two of you.

"I love you." You whispered.

"I love you." He responded.

Once again your faces were close, his hand was caressing your cheek and your eyes were locked.

Everything was right in your world.

#haikyuu!!#haikyuuxreader #haikyuu reader insert #haikyuu #miya osamu x reader #miya atsumu x reader #suna x reader #oikawa x reader #kuroo x reader fluff #kenma x reader #hq fluff #iwaizumi x gender neutral reader #sakusa x reader #kageyama x reader #kita x gender neutral reader #aran ojiro #hinata shoyo x reader

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dreamteamspace · 3 years

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Some positivity about this Tales Of The SMP because I feel like it. MAJOR SPOILERS

Technoblade being in character and hilarious at the same time

Karl says he’s a minecraft streamer fully in character and it’s treated as being the equivalent of a billionaire for the rest of the tales

Everyone having awful rich people accents

Fundy is an old person

Technoblade is just hilarious I don’t make the rules

NIKI NIHACHUUUUU FUCK YEAH!!!!!

Ranboo is the butler and can only communicate in enthusiastic or panicked nods for 90% of it

They try to throw Quackity out of the party the moment he walks in the door. His name is Drew P. Pe- [gets shot]

Karl and Quackity keep falling off the railings and it’s sometimes plot relevant and sometimes not

Techno: “Poor people don’t get healthcare”

Karl trying really hard not to laugh throughout the entire thing, mostly cause of Technoblade and I can’t blame him

Techno, whispering about Quackity: “Butler, feed the poor man poison!” Quackity: “You can say that to my face you son of a bitch.”

Techno: “Sir can you spell ‘economy’?” Quackity: “Of course. A-” Karl: *laughing into his elbow*

Technoblade and Quackity are the funniest people on the planet I don’t make the rules

Technoblade keeps flexing on poor people and I can’t even be mad at him

Quackity: “I’m gonna cough on you!” Everyone: *FERAL PANIC, SCATTER IN ALL DIRECTIONS, HIDE UNDER THE TABLE, SCREAM*

Techno: “Butler, did you feed this man poison yet?” Ranboo: *Tosses Quackity a poison potion.* Techno: “Ah, there it is. Now drink that.” Quackity: “Now why would I do that?” Techno: “It’s high in vitamin B.” Quackity: “What does the ‘B’ in vitamin B stand for?” Techno: “Broke.”

They play duck-duck-goose fully serious and in character sitting in the middle of the ballroom in a circle, complete with screaming and yelling

They stop playing duck-duck-goose for the lights to go down by 3%, everyone to run around as if it’s pitch black, and Niki start to murder people. It’s great. Absolute highlight

I’ve gotten used to Karl being 70% out of character at all times and it’s actually really funny contrasted with everyone else being extremely in character and rolling with whatever he says

“Oh Niki went to the bathroom so we can’t question her.”

Karl: “Oh! ~Canonically~ I see some of his blood! On this wall!!” Everyone: :O!

*Quackity is the one who died* Karl: “I don’t think he died from being dumb and poor... I think he died... from one of YOU!” Everyone: *shocked gasp* Techno: “Who did it? I will pay them for their troubles!”

Ranboo, whispering: “Can I talk?” Techno: “Keep it short, five words.” Karl: “I think we should let him talk to investigate this murder.” Techno: “Alright, six words. That was one of them.”

Fundy: “Everyone knows poor people are very sneaky.” Techno: “Yes, us rich people only commit ~financial crimes~.” Karl: “And it doesn’t count because we don’t MAKE it count!” *Everyone agrees*

They play terrible rich people and simultaniously flex on rich people. We love to see it

Whenever they have to look around Techno just goes and gets a bath and he’s not even sneaky about it

Karl: “I can’t believe they did that to that poor person, whoever this murderer is... I know they’re poor but sometimes they can still live for something else. Like helping rich people get richer!”

Fundy almost drowns in the aquarium?? Was that even scripted??? Nobody even threw him in there he was just there??

NIKI DIES NOOOOOOOOOO WHAT!

*Everyone thinks it’s Karl* Techno: “He did medbay scan!”

Karl: “So it couldn’t have been me. Unless I’m lying. Which killers don’t do!” *Everyone agrees*

Techno: “Everyone empty out your pockets!” Techno: *tossing stacks and stacks of gold bars* Karl: *picks up Sapnap’s gold and mouses over ‘disconnect’* Ranboo and Bad: *buckets and buckets of milk??* Sapnap: *keeps picking up all the gold everyone keeps throwing*

Karl, walking forward and picking up 3847 buckets of milk: “Oh I’ve got so much milk now.” Techno: “Here, wash it down with some poison.” Karl: *actually drinks it and starts screaming “If only we had milk!” while running away*

Karl, to Bad: “Are you still drinking?” Bad: “dn,, btnt... no.”

Karl and Bad chilling in the closet

*Karl and Techno stumble onto Fundy on top of a dead body* Techno: “Caught! In! Four! K!”

Fundy “But if I was the killer... and I was from London... WHY didn’t you hear a GUNSHOT?” Techno: “He’s got a point there.”

Karl: “Why couldn’t it have been the butler?!” Ranboo, whispering: “How many words?” Techno: “Three.” Ranboo: “Nope. Not... me.” Techno: “...he does raise a good point.”

Ranboo: “Is there a murderer-” Techno: “SILENCE! ...He really singed up thinkin he’d get to voice act. Not on my watch.”

Karl, to Techno: “We really need the butler to talk. If we allow him 30 minutes-” Techno, quietly with horror: “30 minutes?”

Techno: “Butler, you have 30 minutes of free speech.” Ranboo: “Oh, oh! 30 minutes! I have a question, then. I read something in a book once. What is a... ‘union’?” Karl: “Nevermind, cut him off.” Techno: “No rights for poor people.”

Fundy: “If it was me, how come I can play such a JOLLY tune?” *starts playing crime theme on a piano* *Ranboo vibing to the music in the background*

Karl: “Okay so Fundy will stay with the butler. He was only like a 100 millionaire, right? Fits that he stays with the poor people.” Techno: “Oh yeah, he’s broke. I heard he streams fortnite.”

Techno laughs himself lightheaded at that

Techno: “I’m gonna file so many complaints to the lights company after this.”

Techno: “Oh no, it’s the butler, we’re out of here! Throw gold, he’s poor so he has to stop for it!”

EGG?!?!?!

THE EGG?!?!?!?!?!

?!?!?!?!

I mean I knew they were all gonna die at the end but STILL

Ranboo is rly scary when he wants to be

LMAO the book dissapeared and Karl had to do a take two

Karl just makes the stream read the book themselves lmfao

on that note HOLY FUCK THE BUILD

HOLY FUCK THE BUILD

they probably downloaded that from somewhere but still

I would fucking die for that castle

TLDR: Ranboo has never done anything wrong in his life, ever

#tftsmp #tales of the smp #liveblogging #mcyt #mcytblr #dream smp #dreamsmp #tales spoilers #I love the way technoblade emotes #like just in minecraft #ranboo too #dreamteamspace speaks #long post #like LONG ass post

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bnuyfrowns · 2 years

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the official rant post for the treatment of nathan prescott and josh washington in their respective games and also by the fandoms. obvious major spoilers for life is strange (& before the storm) and until dawn.

i also want to preface this by saying that i am not excusing their actions. obviously the things they did were bad but i’m just here to provide a bit of background as to where they were coming from and why their endings shouldn’t have been as awful as they were. i’ll also make it so there’s a ‘keep reading’ bc this ended up being a very long post.

there’s also links to videos/photos where i reference them where i could.

nathan prescott - life is strange

there’s a lot to cover here. so i’ll start with the situation from the beginning, where nathan can kill chloe. the gun was there for show, i think, and whether he actually intended to use it is up for interpretation. it’s important to note that he didn’t want to kill chloe, but i’m not excusing him of the fact that he physically kills someone. he only pulls the trigger, however, once she pushes him. this leads me to think that the trigger may have not been pulled by him consciously, but rather a muscle spasm. he has canonically has these, and we know this both from drew calling him ‘twitch’ when he’s bullying him, as well as one of the medications he’s shown to take being diazepam, which can be used to treat muscle spasms. once again not excusing him of murder, but this may have been what had happened rather than him just pulling the trigger for the fun of it like some people think.

then for everything else. nathan’s circumstances are very complicated. he had grown up with a very overbearing and controlling father, who even in adolescence seems to be still behind every decision that nathan makes and everything that he does. and horribly, this also extends to nathan’s medical needs. sure, nathan is receiving psychiatric help, but i wouldn’t consider it much help considering how much of it is controlled by nathan’s father. this is seen most evidently through the conversations that chloe can overhear at the hospital (sean being nathan’s father):

sean: why has my son been assigned to you? i never authorised that he be seen by- doctor: i was assigned because nathan was becoming quite upset- sean: so they sent a psychiatrist? because my son was upset? doctor: please mr. prescott. your son needs serious psychiatric help. sean: my son needs nothing from you.

doctor: sir, i believe your son is manifesting serious and alarming symptoms. allow me the chance to- sean: nathan’s already getting more than enough attention from one of you! i am fed up with these made up problems!

so nathan receives ‘help’ that doens’t help him all that much at all. and his meltdowns and behaviour are all covered up by his behaviour in order to keep up appearances. it’s no wonder that when nathan finds a father figure and mentor in jefferson, he’s pretty much willing to do whatever’s he’s asked. jefferson praised his work and treated him nicely (at least at first), and this support was something that nathan had craved for a very long time.

jefferson knew that he was manipulating nathan, he says it to max - ‘you used nathan’ / ‘i prefer the term “manipulated”. like with an image… nathan’s was easy to twist around’ - and he was more than happy to use nathan in order to get funding for his sick hobbies.

of course nathan’s involvement with everything cannot be ignored, he himself drugged chloe in an attempt to impress jefferson, and he was the one who drugged kate and brought her to the dark room, along with other girls that we don’t know about. however i don’t believe that nathan was the one to kill rachel, but rather it was jefferson who then blamed it on nathan. jefferson canonically blames another murder on nathan - ‘i’m sorry that i killed- that nathan killed [chloe] in self-defence’ - so who’s to say that he hasn’t done this already, and jefferson is our only source of information says that nathan had killed rachel.

then there’s the photo that nathan supposedly took with rachel’s corpse. first of all, i think it’s very unlikely that nathan took the photo at all considering that he was actually pretty good friends with rachel. this is evident both from the photo of the two of them seen in rachel’s bedroom, as well as how excited nathan had been when he had mistaken max for rachel in the diner. this was after rachel had died, and is a pretty odd reaction to seeing somebody that you had supposedly killed and then taken pictures with their corpse. also, in the photo nathan, in my opinion, looks pretty out of it, which leads me to think that maybe jefferson had drugged him too and posed them together.

it’s also extremely important to note that nathan was extremely regretful of his actions, with him saying in his voicemail to max, ‘i just wanted to say… i’m sorry. i didn’t want to hurt kate or rachel, or… i didn’t want to hurt anybody. everybody… used me.’ this confession of guilt around rachel could be explained by it being an internalised confession, in which he truly believed he was the one to kill rachel, due to his guilt or even jefferson making him believe that he had done it; or maybe he did kill her, we’ll never know.

but in the end justice is never served for nathan. he never gets to move on from his mistakes, to own up to them and have his redemption. instead, he is killed by jefferson, his abuser, in a situation where ‘the police will never find his body’.

josh washington - until dawn

obviously a big point of this game is that all the characters are bad, they’re all assholes, none of them are very nice people (besides sam). it just so happens that these were josh’s friends, and were also the people that indirectly caused both of josh’s sisters to go missing and never be found again. josh, who is revealed to have had a history of mental illness since he was 11, is overcome with depression following these events, even attempting suicide at one point. at 20, he comes up with a plan to prank his friends, with the intention to scare them and make them feel panicked, ‘like his sisters did’.

it’s important to note that josh didn’t actually intend for this prank to physically harm any of the group (with the exception of when ashley is knocked out). when chris is forced to choose between killing ashley or josh, the saw is always rigged to go towards josh. and when chris is forced to choose between killing himself or ashley, the gun is filled with blanks and the saw is not actually able to reach them at all. it was all about making them scared, rather than actually hurting them.

also extremely important to note, josh is schizophrenic, but is neither properly diagnosed nor treated for this. he is receiving medication and treatment for mental illness, however it is only for depression. in the game he is shown to experience very vivid and very gory hallucinations including things such as his sisters corpse’s blaming him for their deaths - ‘why did you want us to die?’ - as well as walls seeming to move and breathe, and a dismembered pig’s head which comes out of the wall. he also hallucinates sessions with his psychiatrist, where his lack of touch with reality is mocked, and lines such as ‘you’re a sick fuck!’ are common especially towards the end.

his behaviour could also be associated with withdrawal from his prescribed medication, phenelzine, which he most likely stopped taking during the beginning of the game. he was also prescribed a dosage of this medication four times higher than the typical dosage. but as well as this, his schizophrenic symptoms were also completely untreated.

josh also genuinely believed that his friends would forgive him after the prank. he thought they would all laugh it off and go back to normal afterwards, he’s actually shocked when they’re all mad at him once he reveals himself. but his friends pretty much leave him for dead after this. he’s tied up and left in a barn where they were going to leave him until morning. when they find out that josh will most certainly be killed if left alone, only chris is willing to go and help him. but even chris doesn’t treat him well besides this. when being taken to the barn, the player can choose to have mike and chris punch josh, and chris can even hit josh on the head with a baseball bat, knocking him out.

and to top it all off, josh has only two possible endings in the game. he can either be killed by his own wendigo-turned sister, or become a wendigo himself. he cannot escape, nobody rescues him, and either way he’s pretty much left to rot with no chance of redemption.

that’s all. and thanks for reading if you got this far, this ended up being way longer than i thought it would be holy shit. also i’m happy to discuss any part of this with people :)

#nathan prescott #life is strange #life is strange: before the storm #lis #lis bts #josh washington #until dawn #this took me literally ages oh my god #also this doesn’t even cover everything there were some things i left out but i feel like these were the most important points

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chaozsilhouette · 3 years

Text

A Revealing Performance

My rendition for the Shadow Play in @winterpower98's Swap Au.

It was supposed to be a simple thing, then it sort of spiraled into this whole deal. For the effects of the Shadow Lantern, I drew some inspiration from her Cursed Au as I never thought simply using her friends was cruel enough for the Monkey Tyrant.

It serves to show just how far Macaque has grown, but also to highlight just how monstrous he was.

_____________________________

Mei refrained from downing her bubble tea as she waited for the play to start. It had been a rough couple of weeks with Spider Queen and that creepy girl. And failing to find where Xiaotian had run off to after the misunderstanding. When Macaque sent her tickets to the local theatre, she was ashamed to think it was a trap.

Pigsy and Sandy were right. After everything that happened, she needed some serious me time. She had been too stressed.

Besides, everyone knew Macaque was a total theatre nerd. Few people knew that the star puppeteer was actually the Six-Eared Macaque himself. He would totally send her tickets from his stomping grounds as a way to unwind.

It was a shame that Tang couldn’t join them. Apparently, he finally managed to schedule a meeting with the Celestial Realm and was Taking the demon brothers to figure out a new way of sealing the Monkey Tyrant. It was also his chance to explain their little break-in during New Years. He encouraged her to have fun and if it was good, he’d join them for the next showing.

So here they were waiting for the performance to start. Although she wondered what the fake mayor was doing here. They hadn't seen him since he gave her the skeleton key. Still wasn't sure why he had it or why he gave it to her? Supposedly she was only supposed to have it for a day, but he never stopped by to pick it up.

_____________________________

Sun Wukong was a monkey of many talents, but even he had to admit Macaque was a far better storyteller and his mastery of shadows was sheer perfection. But that just made this plan all the more perfect. What better way to teach his wayward beloved’s little flower a lesson than through a trusted medium.

Obtaining a spot in the local theatre was child’s play, a little magic and they were all but begging him to take center stage. Apparently, they had been scrambling to find a new performer after their star puppeteer had to leave for a family emergency (three guesses as to who that was). And with a little glamor, a set of tickets was left at the little flower's doorstep. As far as she knew, Macaque was proud of her progress and believed she had deserved a reward for all her hard work. She was so desperate for something to go right she hardly questioned how her mentor, who was in parts unknown, managed to secure tickets for a new performer.

In his personal dressing room, Wukong delicately touched up his human disguise. Even if he was going to be hidden in his hanfu and cloak, it wouldn’t do to spoil the surprise. Applying his eye shadow with artful flair, the Monkey King took time to appreciate just how handsome he truly was no matter what form he took. Honestly, who would have thought such perfection existed?

A pulse of dark magic drew his attention to his latest partner in crime.

The Shadow Lantern gently floated before him. Its dark magic practically purring at the thought of being used. Wukong could almost laugh at his beloved’s foolishness. He was there when his darling created the lantern, when he infused his own shadows into its very foundation. Did he honestly think such a masterpiece would tolerate being left to collect dust in a cave?

Normally a magical artifact would never consider turning on its master, but after centuries of abandonment, all Wukong had to do was whisper his intentions to return Macaque to his former self to secure its loyalty. The second he first made contact, he could sense a twisted hunger writhing within and with each performance granting it the chance to feed on the life essence of the viewers…. hehe, he almost couldn’t contain himself.

Looking up at the clock, he saw it was just about time for his next performance. His clones had reported the girl’s presence along with the pig and the water demon. Strangely the one with glasses and the little matchstick was absent. No matter, he could make do with two hostages just fine.

After all, the show must go on.

_____________________________

The overhead lights dimmed, signaling the start of the play. Smoke slowly poured from beneath the floorboards, generating an air of mystery. In a flash of golden light, a tall man wearing a beautiful cloak manifested on center stage. The crowd silenced themselves at the display.

“Welcome viewers to a performance you shall never forget!” From the folds of his sleeves, an exquisite lantern floated in front of him. A mesmerizing yet familiar purple glow emanating from the center.

“Our tale tonight is one of love, companionship, and how even the strongest of bonds can be severed through the trickery of the wicked.”

In the background, the shadows twisted and grew in the lantern’s light. Carefully they formed a beautiful scene of a mountain covered in flowers and trees. Attention was gradually guided to the top, where a round stone basked in the sun.

“It all began with the birth of a King.”

The round stone broke, revealing a figure that resembled a monkey. But no, this was a monkey demon, a monkie if you would. The King journeyed down the mountain until he found a tribe of normal monkeys. The group frolicked for a while as the King established himself as the undisputed ruler of the tribe.

A large figure with an ax appeared. The monster brought down his ax upon a small collection of monkeys only to be stopped at the last second by the King. The King used his superior strength to steal the demon’s ax and used it to decapitate the intruder in a single stroke. The monkeys jumped around the King and praised his strength, but the King did not appear satisfied.

“The young King was born with great power and strength, but he sought out more to protect his people.”

The King crafted a raft and set out on a dangerous sea. The King was shown to face off against mountain gods, human warriors, and demonic sorcerers always to reign victorious but never satisfied.

“In his travels, he learned much and faced many enemies, in time his efforts were handsomely rewarded.”

The King climbed a fleet of stairs carved into a mountain to reach a humble monastery. At the top, a stern human stood, but behind him was another monkie. This one however possessed six ears.

“His quest for power led him to a Warrior of potential equaling his own. At first, neither was sure how to react to their mirror, but they quickly forged a comradery that took them far.”

The two monkies trained together, mastering new powers as they sparred.

“Their time together increased their power exponentially and as they grew stronger their feelings blossomed into something beautiful.”

The two were on a cliff overlooking the stars, slowly leaning closer to one another. Eventually, the two faced their opposite and leaned in close.

“Their fates had become intertwined. Their power was unmatched. It was then the King realized what he had been searching for all this time.”

The two shadows merged together in a complex dance until they separated into two beings once again, but not as they began. The two monkeys were now garbed in elaborate, yet practical armor and silks. The King wielded a staff and the Warrior took up a spear.

“Slowly their strength grew to where nothing could challenge them, whether in the Celestial Realm or on Earth.”

The King and Warrior were shown battling heavenly armies and powerful demons with confident smirks. Each battle resoundingly won through their combination of speed, strength, and cunning.

“But it was not enough. The King wished to ensure that he and the Warrior would be able to fight together forever and sought the power and respect needed to secure their future.”

The King took to the Heavens, where he stood before an Emperor in the most extravagant outfit, surrounded by massive guards in magical armor. The Emperor was clearly afraid as the King effortlessly toppled one guard after another, slowly approaching the throne at a steady pace.

“The King’s noble actions were viewed negatively by those who feared his ever-growing power. Eventually, a prison was crafted that could restrain the King, one that not even his beloved Warrior could destroy.”

Just before the King’s latest attack could reach the Emperor, chains wrapped around his limbs and dragged him down to Earth. With a quick flex, the chains shattered, but the King was doomed as a mountain landed on him with a seal placed at the top. The Warrior tried to pry off the seal or find some way to weaken the mountain, his acts growing more desperate with time, yet nothing worked.

“Cruelly, the King was forced to wait until he could be freed, forced to watch his precious Warrior defend their Kingdom on his own.”

With a heavy expression, the Warrior abandoned his efforts to return to the original mountain as dozens of terrifying figures surrounded the monkey inhabitants.

“Centuries passed and their love still burned strong. Soon their patience was rewarded, the King was freed but he was soon trapped in a new prison.”

A monk approached the mountain and removed the seal. The King swiftly destroyed the mountain. The monk humbly bowed to the King and offered fresh clothing and a fillet. The King garbed himself in the gifts only to collapse in agony when the monk prayed.

“Enraged the King played along until the time was right. The King and the Warrior reunited in secret and crafted a plan that would allow them to take their revenge on those that dared to separate them.”

The two monkies hugged and nuzzled each other in appreciation. A quick conversation later, the Warrior changed to resemble the King and joined the monk as the King headed into unknown lands.

“Decades later the King was ready to retrieve his love, confident in his regained strength. But when he arrived the Warrior had changed. It was as if the warrior had lost a crucial part of himself. The Warrior tried to dissuade the King from killing the monk and his companions. He even tried to convince him to give up his rage at the Celestial Realm, believing the war that would ensue wasn't worth it.”

The disguised Warrior was traveling with four colorful characters. The King dropped from the sky in front of the group, a massive crater forming around him. The Warrior regained his true form, but instead of returning to his rightful place, he blocked the King’s view of the monk.

“The King could not believe his ears. This could not be his Warrior. His love always understood his goals and knew why heaven had to pay. The King knew this change was the monk’s fault. The King moved to silence the deceiver in one quick strike only to find it blocked by the Warrior.”

The King and Warrior exchanged blows that tore mountains asunder, split the heavens, and burned down forests. The other demons following the monk tried to aid the warrior, but nothing they did seemed to slow down the King, if anything their attacks only served to further enrage him.

“The two clashed until the Warrior fled with the jailers. Time and time again they clashed, but never could the King reach the Warrior he held in his heart.”

The group fled from the battle, but time and time again the King tracked them down. The locations may have changed, but the carnage after each battle remained as world-shattering as the first. In the end, the Group managed to truly escape, and the Warrior vanished into the shadows he wielded, leaving the King alone with nothing but his memories.

“Even now the King yearns for the companionship of his beloved Warrior, knowing that at his core the Warrior craves the same.”

With the final line sending shivers down the spines of the viewers, the puppeteer vanished in a flash of light.

_____________________________

As Mei waited for her family to walk out, she couldn’t help but think about the play. It almost sounded like they were telling the tale of the Monkey King. But that was ridiculous. No one knew the Monkey King’s origins aside from minor details from the Journey to the West. Besides the narrator seemed to view the Monkey Tryant as a hero and victim. Clearly, that guy needed a reality check.

“Hello, young one.” Nearly choking on the remainder of her tea, Mei turned to see the puppeteer standing behind her with a knowing smile.

His cloak shrouding the top of his face in shadow. For a second, Mei envisioned her father Macaque. He would adore that look. Actually, didn’t she see a similar outfit in his closet on Flower Fruit Mountain? Doesn’t he wear that outfit when he’s hosting a shadow play?

Wait. How did he sneak up on her like that? Was she that out of it?

How long has she been quiet? Crap! Say something! “Oh. Ah-hello. C-can I help you with something?”

“I was about to ask the same. You do know the theatre is going to close soon right?”

“What?” Mei grabbed her phone. The digital clock flashed that it was past nine. That couldn’t be right. That meant she had been waiting for nearly an hour. But where were the others? Surely, they wouldn’t have left without telling her. Were they in trouble?

“Is everything alright?”

“Ah- yeah, everything’s fine.” It’s cool. It’s cool. She could handle this. She just needed to stay calm. “No need to worry about me. I just ah-I have a few questions about your play.”

“Yes.”

“How did you could up with the concept? I mean, no offense, but your premise could be taken the wrong way.” Maybe it was the panic over where her family had disappeared to, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being sized up.

“Hm. Have you ever heard the expression ‘History is written by the winners’?”

“Yes. It’s pretty common.” Like one of the most used sayings in the world.

“The tale was designed to show that love is one of the most cherished feelings of all and that in order to protect it, one must be willing to do anything to keep their loved ones safe. The King only wished to keep his beloved by his side, but the Warrior was misled and forced to battle against his love. That story may belong to only two, but similar tales can be experienced in anyone’s life. Tell me, can you think of a time you fought with those you cared about due to a misunderstanding?”

Without even considering it, horrible memories resurfaced. Mei arguing with MK as she tried to stop him from leaving with the newly released Monkey King. Mei forced to battle Red Son as his mind was slowly consumed by the True Fire of Samadhi. Tang lying to them about his true identity. Macaque leaving when they needed him most without saying why.

“I see you can.” The puppeteer gently guided her back into the main hall, where she took a seat on an empty bench.

“It’s nothing. I just-” She honestly didn’t know why she was pouring out her heart to stranger. Maybe she really was that exhausted. “-there’s so much going on and I’m supposed to be strong no matter what. But sometimes it hurts, just thinking about all my mistakes. Sometimes I wonder if I truly am strong. What if bringing me into this was a mistake?”

“What if it was?” That voice!

Mei turned to see Macaque garbed in a strange outfit, one that honestly reminded her of the Monkey King’s. She was confused. She had never seen him wear anything like that, he looked like the Monkey King’s twisted shadow.

And that expression! Her father Macaque had never made that face before. It looked as though he was reveling in her suffering.

“What’s the matter, little jade? Don’t worry, I won’t leave you alone.” He extended a hand slowly with the intent to cradle her face. A normal gesture he would use to comfort her, but her every instinct was screaming at her to get away.

Mei jumped to her feet and pulled out her spear, aiming it right between the imposter’s eyes. “Enough games!”

Macaque stared at the spear for a second, his fiendish expression only growing more vicious. He threw his head back with a full-bodied laugh, showing how little he thought of her threat. “Ha. Ha. Ha.”

In a flash of light, the Monkey Tyrant was standing before her, still wearing his puppeteer disguise. “Wow. About time. For a while, I was wondering if you’d ever figure out it was me.” His red and gold eyes carefully roved over her body, taking in every shake and fearful twitch. “Put down the spear, kid. We both know you’re not nearly good enough to scratch me with such a pitiful copy of the Dragon Blade.”

That may have been true, but she’d sooner make out with DBP in full view of Queen Iron Fan than leave herself completely open before this tyrant. “So the play was from your perspective. I always figured you were delusional, but this is a new low. Where is my family?” She all but growled, unknowingly her canines had slightly elongated in response to her rage.

“They never left. I’m surprised you didn’t recognize this.” The Monkey King took out the lantern, once more bathing the room in that familiar glow.

“What’s the big deal about a lantern?”

The stone monkie found her ignorance all the more entertaining. To think he hadn’t warned her of his own past.

“The big deal is that my dear warrior crafted this lantern long ago. It was his finest work and like everything he made it has multiple uses.” With a simple hand gesture, the silhouettes of Pigsy and Sandy appeared on the walls. “The Shadow Lantern can do more than enhance one’s skills in shadow magic, it can trap the bodies and souls of its targets. So long as the targets are trapped, the lantern can steal the shadows of its victims so its master can use them as a personal army until there is nothing left.”

“You expect me to believe Macaque made something so disgusting?” Even as Mei said it, she couldn’t help but recognize how similar the lantern’s magic was to her teacher’s. It was cool and soothing, but on the edge, there was an unmistakable edge of malice. “Even if he did, I doubt he made it without you whispering in his ears.”

“Oh child, you have no idea how many secrets he keeps from you. Let me share one with you.” The lantern grew brighter, and the silhouettes of her family members gained more substance as they peeled away from the walls.

Mei adjusted herself so all opponents were in her sight, but nothing could stop the sweat collecting on her forehead.

She sensed something powerful appear behind her. Jumping out of the way as a spear nearly severed her arm. She faced her new opponent. Only to almost drop her weapon.

Standing before her was another copy of Macaque only this one was even more disturbing. Its eyes burned with purple light, the shadows loving curled around it, but worst of all was the sneer filled with razor-tipped teeth.

“Did you honestly think my love was always so nice?”

#lego monkie kid #lego monkie kid au #lmk #long xiaojiao #mei #sun wukong #liu er mihou #monkey king #monkie kid swap au #shadow lantern #winterpower98 #i need to lay down #shadow play #monkey tyrant

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sameheart-sameblood · 3 years

Text

All To Myself

(gif by @captainrexs)

pairing: captain rex x f!reader

summary: bath time with rex usually means trying to get him to relax, but tonight it's your turn to let him help you out

words: 3.1 k

warnings: 18+, smut, bathtime shenanigans (f receiving), rex being the giver we all know he is

a/n: this is purely self-indulgent as i love baths. i would give up all my earthly possessions to take one with rex. this is my first attempt at smut (which is probably obvious lol). kind of didn’t want to release this but got tired of it staring at me whenever i opened word

read on ao3!

Your evenings were usually spent alone. At first, that had bothered you. Rex had come into your life and you wanted nothing more than to be in his presence. The calmness and kindness he exuded was unlike anything you’d ever experienced before. Being around him made you crave his presence all the more, like spice coursing through your system. You knew his job meant he was needed off planet most of the time. But was it really too much to ask that you see him occasionally while he was back on Coruscant?

As your relationship went on, you got used to it. Being numb to the canceled dinners and missed special occasions was just what seemed in store for someone who loved a captain in the GAR. Which is why you barely batted an eyelash when he had commed you earlier in the day, rushing an apology about not being able to see you that evening. You might be resigned to the fact that Rex’s life was his job but it still didn’t make it easier to stomach the thought of another night alone.

The two of you had planned an evening on the town, dinner and dancing. Well, at least you dancing while Rex swayed self-consciously next to you. He hated it and yet he never tried to talk you out of going. It was one of the many things you loved about him. It was these things you remembered when your loneliness got the best of you. So what if Rex couldn’t always be around? Whenever he was with you he made you feel like the only person in the world.

You contemplate calling your friends to see if they’d like to join you for your planned activities. But you’re feeling sorry for yourself and if you can’t be with Rex, then you’d rather just be by yourself. You decide to keep things simple and take a bath. The thought instantly puts you in a better mood. It’s one of your favorite past-times.

******

When Rex had first seen your bath routine, he’d been in shock. As someone who was usually only afforded about two minutes to bathe, the thought of taking an hours long bath blew his mind. You’d insisted he try it for himself. He watched as you drew him a bath of his own, adjusting the temperature just right and properly dissolving a few handfuls of epsom salts.

Before leaving him, you’d dimmed the lights, lit a few sweet smelling candles and turned on some light background music. Lowering himself into the tub, Rex thought the experience might be alright. But after a minute, he was ready to get out. He had tried to understand it, really he had. But as someone always on the go, he couldn’t easily relax, constantly fighting the feeling he should be doing something.

He didn’t begrudge you taking your baths. After all, he saw how happy they made you and he wanted nothing more than to see you content. But for a soldier, the experience felt like an indulgence he didn’t deserve.

He had shyly called you back into the bathroom. “I don’t think I’m doing it right, love.” You’d gone in to find him sitting there, looking confused, as if expecting something more to happen. “There’s no wrong way to take a bath, Rex.” Sitting down next on the edge of the porcelain, you’d motioned for him to keep trying. He’d sat back, shoulders tensed towards his ears, staring straight ahead, eyes wide, his whole body on alert.

You had to stifle a laugh as you watched. “Ok, apparently you have found a wrong way to take a bath.” He’d looked so forlorn at his failure that you had no choice but to shed your clothes and get in, taking a more hands on approach to showing him how to relax. He’d liked baths much more after that…

******

Easing yourself into the water makes you instantly relax. Knowing you’ll most likely spend the rest of the night in here, you make sure to get everything prepared that you might need. Feeling cheeky, you also bring over of your favorite vibrator. You’re not going to be getting any from Rex tonight, so might as well try to have some fun.

You get to catch up on the book you’re reading, feeling satisfied when you finish the last page. Settling back, you let your mind wander, hands playing at the surface of the water. An accidental glide over your breast sparks something in your belly. You pause, then do it again, imagining it’s Rex’s larger, calloused hand teasing you. You grab the vibrator, placing it next to you.

Before you delve in, you turn the water on to return some of the warmth the bath has lost.

Over the roar of the tap, you don’t hear the door open. Someone clears their throat and you whip your head towards the noise. Rex greets you, shoulders slumped with fatigue. “Sorry, love, didn’t mean to scare you.”

And you must look scared too, you’re eyes double their usual size. You glance at the vibrator, wondering if you have time to hide it. Rex isn’t against your use of toys, in fact he encourages them. But you’re still embarrassed at being caught just about to put it to use. He follows your eyes, his own widening slightly.

“Ah, so it was going to be that kind of bath?” He chuckles, expression darkening slightly as you squirm under his gaze. He just stands there, looking at you. Oh, he’s actually expecting an answer. “Well, I just figured, you weren’t going to be home, and I was bored and lonely and…”

You’re rambling now but you can’t stop, even as you watch him slowly remove his armor. He does so tantalizingly slow, nodding along with mock sympathy as you continue.

“I thought I would be alone for the night and I missed you so much, Rex, honey, I miss you.”

His face softens at your wavering tone, your sincerity written all over your face. He finishes stacking his armor neatly in the corner. “I missed you too.” He strips out of his blacks, folding them as you openly gawk at him. He allows himself a smirk at your neediness. Finally ridding himself of his clothing, he kneels down next to the bath. He runs his thumb over your cheek. “I’m here now. You don’t need to be lonely anymore.”

That night you had first introduced him to proper bath-time, you’d sat behind him, guiding him on just how to really relax. But tonight, he wants you to be taken care of. He motions for you to scooch forward, then sinks in behind you, groaning softly. You settle into each other, just reveling in the closeness for a moment.

Rex exhales a ragged breath and you feel some of the tension go out of his body. “Tough day?” He pulls you closer, your back pressed to his chest. “Just the usual. Nothing I can’t handle.” You know him well enough now to hear the pain in his tone. He feels you tense, knowing you want to ask him to elaborate, always trying to solve his problems. Rex rubs your arms slowly, soothing you “Not to worry. Everything’ll be fine.”

Rex’s hands continue their hypnotic rubbing. Up and down, leaving goosebumps in their wake. You allow yourself to relax once again but don’t let the matter drop. “You had a long day, Rex. Let me help you unwind.” You try and get out of the bath so you can switch places. But he’s having none of it. He holds you gently in place. “Taking care of you will help me relax, love.”

When you had first gotten together and he would say these kinds of things to you, it was hard to believe him. Could he truly be this selfless? It felt in some way like you were taking advantage of him. As your relationship progressed, you’d come to see that he truly meant things like that. Rex had many love languages but his favorite was acts of service.

Sighing in defeat, you settle back against him. He chuckles at your small sounds of mock protest. Rex nuzzles his face into your hair, inhaling your familiar scent of pine and Alderaanian blossoms. For a moment, he breathes you in, forgetting about the world. But as his eyes slowly open, he’s greeted by the sight of your long abandoned vibrator. Rex reaches for it, toying with it. You see what he’s doing and turn towards him. “It’s ok. I’m fine. Let’s just lay here.”

Your captain may be tired but he’ll be damned if he doesn't fall asleep knowing you've been satisfied. “That’s right. You just lay there. Let me do the work.” The tiny thing clicks on, a buzzing filling the room. Rex lowers it into the water, the vibrations sending out tiny ripples. He pauses hovering above where you need him most.

“What do you think of when you use this?” You’re so caught off guard by the question that you only let out a confused garble. He gives your thigh a squeeze, chuckling at the state you’re already in. “I haven’t even started yet, love. Use your words.”

After that, there’s no hesitation. “You.” The word comes out in a needy rasp. Rex is right. He hasn't even touched you yet and your body is already wound up so tightly in anticipation that you’re sure you might combust at any moment. “It’s always you, Rex.” You can’t see but his face softens, still so surprised someone would ever care for him like that.

He rewards you with a lingering kiss on your shoulder and lowers the toy to your already swollen clit. You jolt at the sensation, body automatically trying to get away from it. Rex’s free arm tightens around you, forcing you to stay still and power through the first few seconds of overstimulation. You’re still whimpering, but you soon relax, leaning your head back onto his shoulder.

He studies your face, your eyes screwed tight and mouth slightly agape. “Is this what you needed?” All you can do is nod but he prompts you to continue, rubbing the vibrator slowly up and down through your folds. Gasping at the new sensation, your eyes pop open to meet his. “I-I…” The arm that had been holding you tightly against him loosens. His hand moves to your breast, massaging gently.

It’s been so long since you’ve had time to take things this slow. Usually he’s only got a few minutes free, leaving time for a rushed rendezvous and nothing more. But tonight you have him all to yourself. No comms beeping to steal his attention, no duty calling him away. It’s as if there’s nothing outside of these four walls and you know it’s an opportunity that won’t come along often.

Your head lolls to the side as he continues his ministrations. The coil in your belly is tightening quickly but you fight against it, needing something different. Your voice eventually resurfaces, your words on the tail end of a moan. “I- I need you!” Urging life back into your limbs that have since turned to jelly is difficult. But you manage to move your hand to cover his, clicking off the vibrator.

Rex stills for a moment, trying to figure out what he’s done wrong. Turning your head to look at him, you see his confusion. You reach up to stroke his face, eyes pleading with him. After a moment, you see him understand. It’s something you always want, without fail. He smiles down at you, leaning over you to gently press his lips to yours.

The vibrator is quickly abandoned on the side of the tub. With both hands free, Rex can really touch you, hands roaming about at his leisure. You sigh contently as his rough fingers trail along the sides of your body, then upwards to tease your nipples. The embers in your belly that had dimmed slightly are now burning brightly once again. He senses this and lowers a hand to your clit.

At first, he just runs his fingers through your folds. He doesn’t mean to tease, he just hasn’t been able to feel you, to truly appreciate you in so long. But your whine pulls him out of his trance and he begins to rub circles that leave you gasping for air. He begins slowly, making sure you're happy with the direction things are going.

Rex holds in his chuckle as he peers down at you. Your head has once again tipped back against him. But now, your face has gone slack, no tightness or tenseness to be found. Only pleasure. His free hand moves between your breasts, squeezing, massaging and tugging, making sure neither is neglected. He sees just how much your chest is heaving and decides to give you your reward. You’ve been so patient for him.

His hand tugs at your thigh, pulling you out of your daze. “What are you - “ He lifts your leg and hooks it over the edge of the tub, spreading you wider for better access. You moan pitifully as the hand that had been rubbing circles delves back in. There’s so much more of you he can touch now and it makes you tremble. He beams down at you proudly, seeing how much this slight change is bringing you closer to the edge.

You're tensing under him, back beginning to bow. Your sudden movement brings attention to his erection that’s been slowly growing. He can’t help when he automatically begins to grind against you. But Rex knows you well enough now to realize he only has a few more seconds before you're toppling into oblivion. His release can wait.

Abandoning your breast, his hand slides up to your neck, applying the slightest pressure. You keen at the feeling. It’s not a show of dominance. It’s Rex reminding you that he’s there for you, a comforting presence that makes you feel perpetually taken care of.

You twist your neck so you can gape up at him. The hand on your clit continues it’s work, doubling down its efforts. Throughout the experience, you’d been gripping the sides of the tub for dear life. But now, you bring one up to cover Rex’s hand that’s enclosed around your neck. Even through your haze of lust, your heart aches at the pure love radiating from his eyes.

You're too far gone, unable to form words. All you can do is moan and hope he can decipher it. If you weren't in such a compromising position you would have to laugh. Asking someone to be able to decipher your desires without words. But thankfully Rex knows you like the back of his hand. He knows what you're asking, what last thing you need to make you let go. Loosening his grip on your neck, he uses it to hold your face, crashing your lips together.

The kiss doesn’t break, even as you writhe under him. You try to turn away from him as you come, but he holds you to him, needing to feel you as much as you needed to feel him. The water is sloshing over the sides of the tub, your once full bath almost halfway empty. Rex breaks the kiss, letting the aftershocks of your release play out.

He rubs soothingly against your thighs, watching as you twitch. You collapse onto him, finally beginning to break through the fog. The ability to form a coherent sentence seems to have left you. All you can manage is a weak sigh of his name. It’s the only thing you can remember and, in all honesty, you’d die a happy woman if that was the only thing you could utter for the rest of your life.

“Was that what you needed, love?” Rex nuzzles into your neck as you chuckle. “Apparently more than I realized.” The rubbing at your sides pauses. You look to Rex to see what’s wrong and find his face twisted with guilt. “This isn’t right. If I can’t give you the attention you need then I don’t deserve you.” This isn’t the first time you've had this conversation and you're sure it wont be the last.

But you’re happy to reassure your lover, as many times as you need to. “You give me everything I need, Rex. You’re smart, brave, funny, kind, supportive, sexy.” He lowers his eyes at the last word, smiling demurely. “I don’t know how I got so lucky. You give me everything and so much more. And I mean, if you don’t believe me, just look.” You laugh, gesturing at your bathroom, now in a state of disrepair, water on the floor, shampoo and soap bottles scattered, candles burnt down to messy puddles.

Rex chuckles but looks contrite, rubbing his neck shyly. “Guess we got a little carried away.” He’s already made you come once, and spectacularly at that. But just the sight of him has those butterflies in your belly stirring to life again. You bat your eyelashes. “Now will you let me take care of you?” He closes his eyes, sighing tiredly. His cock, still hard against your back is evidence enough, but his muscles sag with fatigue.

“I want you more than anything. But I think I have just enough energy to clean this mess and then fall into bed.” Shaking your head, you gently extricate yourself from his arms. You stand on shaky legs as you hold out your hand for him. “Everything else can wait. Let me show you how much I missed you, Captain.”

His eyes widen, lust beginning to cloud his gaze. You don’t use his title often, knowing how riled up it gets him to hear the word fall from your lips. But you need the big guns tonight, refusing to leave him wanting. Rex grabs for you and lets you lead him through the ruined bathroom and into your bedroom.

He takes one last look at the state you’re leaving the room in. “But we should really clean this…” You lead him to the bed and softly push him down on to it. He looks up at you with doe eyes as you straddle his hips. “We will, honey. But no sense cleaning up now when we’re just about to make another mess.”

#captain rex x reader #rex x reader #rex x you #god what i would give to take a bath with rex #tcw fanfic #tcw smut #tcw #allie writes #my writing

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meruz · 3 years

Text

once again i am answering asks in a big compilation post. included is... gotham, patrick stump, tips about drawing backgrounds, tips about drawing in general, links to my faq, and infinity train

like.... the tv series? No... I’ve drawn dc comics fanart before, though. But it’s been years since I’ve been really into it. I like jumped ship like 10 years ago when the New 52 happened LOL.

AFJHDSLKGH I’m sorry I (probably) won’t do it again??

Actually full disclosure I have a truly cringe amount of p stump drawings/photo studies in my sketchbook right now LOL. He’s just fun to draw... hats, glasses, guitar, a good shape... but I don’t think I’ll rly post those until I can hide them in another big sketchbook pdf.. probably Jan 2022. Stay tuned........ (ominous)

(ominous preview)

These are all sort of related to backgrounds/painting so I grouped them together even though they’re pretty much entirely separate questions.... ANYWAYS

a) How is it working as a BG artist? Is it hard? What show are you drawing for?

I think you’re the first person to ever ask me about my job! Being a background artist is great. It’s definitely labor intensive but I think that could describe pretty much any art job (If something were rote or easy to automate, you wouldn’t hire an artist to do it) and I hesitate to say whether its harder or easier than any other role in the animation pipeline. Plus, so much of what truly makes a job difficult varies from one production to the next, schedule, working environment, co-workers etc. But I will say that I think while BGs are generally a lot of work on the upfront, I think they’re subject to less scrutiny/revisions than something like character/props/effects design and you don’t have to pitch them to a room like boards. So I guess it’s good if you don’t like to talk to people? LOL

A lot of my previous projects + the show I’ve worked on the longest aren’t public yet so I can’t talk about em (but I assure you if/when the news does break I won’t shut up about it). But I’m currently working on Archer Season 12 LOL. I’m like 90% sure I’m allowed to say that.

b) ~~~THANK YOU!! ~~~

c) What exactly do you like to draw most [in a background]?

@kaitomiury Lots of stuff! I really like to draw clutter! Because it’s a great opportunity for environmental storytelling and also you can be kind of messy with it because the sheer mass will supersede any details LOL.

I like to draw clouds... I like to draw grass but not trees lol,,, I like to draw anything that sells perspective really easily like tiled floors and ceilings, shelves, lamp posts on a street etc.

d) Do you have any tips on how to paint (observational)?

god there’s so much to say. painting is really a whole ass discipline like someone can paint their whole life and still discover new things about it. I guess if you’re really just starting out my best advice is that habit is more important than product. especially with traditional plein air painting, I find that the procedure of going outside and setting up your paints is almost harder than the actual painting. There’s a lot of artists who say “I want to do plein air sometime!!” and then never actually get around to doing it. A lot of people just end up working from google streetview or photos on their computer.

But going outside to paint is a really good challenge because it forces you to make and commit to lighting and composition decisions really quickly. And to work through your mistakes instead of against them via undo button.

My last tip is to check out James Gurney’s youtube channel because hes probably the best and most consistent resource on observational painting out there rn. There’s lots other artists doing the same thing (off the top of my head I know a lot of the Warrior Painters group has people regularly posting plein air stuff and lightbox expo had a Jesse Schmidt lecture abt it last year) but Gurney’s probably the most prolific poster and one of the best at explaining the more technical stuff - his books are great too.

e) Do you have tips for drawing cleanly on heavypaint?

@marigoldfool UMM LOL I LIKE ONLY USE THE FILL TOOL so maybe use the fill tool? Fill and rectangle are good for edge control as opposed to the rest of the heavy paint tools which can get sort of muddles. And also I use a stylus so maybe if you’re using your finger, find a stylus that works with your device instead. That’s all I’ve got, frankly I don’t think my drawings are particularly clean lol.

f) Tips on improving backgrounds/scenes making them more dynamic practicing etc?

Ive given some tips about backgrounds/scenes before so I’m not gonna re-tread those but here’s another thing that might be helpful...

I think a good way to approach backgrounds is to think of the specific story or even mood you want to convey with the background first. Thinking “I just need to put something behind this character” is going to lead you to drawing like... a green screen tourist photo backdrop. But if you think “I need this bg to make the characters feel small” or “I need this bg to make the world feel colorful” then it gives you requirements and cues to work off of.

If I know a character needs to feel overwhelmed and small, then I know I need to create environment elements that will cage them in and corner them. If a character needs to feel triumphant/on top of the world then I know I need to let the environment open up around them. etc. If I know my focal point/ where I want to draw attention, I can build the background around that.

Also, backgrounds like figure compositions will have focal points of their own and you can draw attention to it/ the relationship the characters have with the bg element via scale or directionality or color, any number of cues. I think of it almost as a second/third character in a scene.

Not every composition is gonna have something so obvious like this but it helps me to think about these because then the characters feel connected and integrated with the environment.

Some more general art questions

a) Do you have any process/tips to start drawing character/bodies/heads?

I tried to kind of draw something to answer this but honestly this is difficult for me to answer because I don’t think I’m that great at drawing characters LOL. Ok, I think I have two tips.

1) flip your canvas often. A lot about what makes human bodies look correct and believable is symmetry and balance. Even if someone has asymmetrical features, the body will often pull and push in a way to counterbalance it. we often have inherent biases to one side or another like dominant hands dominant eyes etc. you know how right-handed artists will often favor drawing characters facing 45 degrees facing (the artist’s) left? that’s part of it. so viewing your drawing flipped even just to evaluate it helps compensate for that bias and makes you more aware of balance.

2) draw the whole figure often. I feel like a lot of beginner artists (myself included for a long time) defer to just drawing headshots or busts because it’s easier, you dont have to think about posing limbs etc. But drawing a full body allows you to better gauge proportion, perspective, body language, everything that makes a character look believable and grounded.

Like if you (me) have that issue where you draw the head too big and then have to resize it to fit the proportions of the rest of the body, it’s probably because you (I) drew the head first and are treating the body as an afterthought/attachment. Sketching out the whole figure first or even just quick drawing guides for it will help you think of it more holistically. I learned this figure drawing in charcoal at art school LOL.

oh. third mini tip - try to draw people from life often! its the best study. if you can get into a figure drawing/nude drawing class EVEN BETTER and if you have a local college/art space/museum that hosts those for free TREASURE IT AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IT, that’s a huge boon that a lot of artists (me again) wish they had. though if youre not so lucky and youre sitting in a park trying to creeper draw people and they keep moving.. don’t let that stop you! that’s good practice because it’s forcing you to work fast to get the important stuff down LOL. its a challenge!

b) I’ve been pretty out of energy and have had no inspiration to draw but I have the desire to. Any advice?

Dude, take a walk or something.... Or a nap? Low energy is going to effect everything else so you gotta hit that problem at its source.

If you’re looking for inspiration though, I’d recommend stuff like watching a movie, reading a book, playing video games etc. Fill up your idea bank with content and then give yourself time/space to gestate it into new concepts. Sometimes looking at other art works but sometimes it can work against you because it’s too close.

Also something that helps me is remembering that art doesn’t always have to be groundbreaking... like it’s okay to make something shitty and stupid that you don’t post online and only show to your friend. That’s all part of the process imo. If you want to hit a home run you gotta warm up first, right? Sports.

I should probably compile everytime i give tips on stuff like this but that’s getting dangerously close to being a social media artist who makes stupid boiled down art tutorials for clout which is the last thing i want to be... the thing I want to stress is that art is a whole visual language and there are widely agreed upon rules and customs but they exist in large part to be broken. Like there's an infinite number of ways to reach an infinite number of solutions and that’s actually what makes it really cool and personal for both the artist and the viewer. So when you make work you like or you find someone else’s work you like, take a step back and ask yourself what about it speaks for you, what about it works for you, what makes it effective, how to recreate that effect and how to break that effect completely, etc. And have a good time with it or else what’s the point.

for the first 2, I direct you to my FAQ

For the last one, I don’t actually believe I’ve ever addressed artwork as insp for stories/rp but I’ll say here and now yeah go ahead! As long as you’re not making profit or taking credit for my work then I’m normally ok with it. Especially anything thats private and purely recreational, that’s generally 100% green light go. I only ask that if you post it anywhere public that you please credit me.

(and I reserve the right to ask you to take it down if I see it and don’t approve of it’s use but I think that case is pretty rare.)

a) @lemuelzero101 Thank you!!! I haven’t played Life is Strange but actually that series’ vis dev artist Edouard Caplain is one of my bigger art inspirations lately so that’s a really high compliment lol. And yeah I hope we get 5-8 too...!

b) Thank you for sticking around! I’ve been thinking about Digimon and Infinity Train in tandem lately, actually. They’re a little similar? Enter a dangerous alternate world and have wacky adventures with monsters/inanimate objects that have weird powers... there’s like weird engineers and mechanisms behind the scenes... also frontier literally starts with them getting on a train. Anyways if anyone else followed me for digimon... maybe you’d like Infinity Train? LOL

c) @king-wens-king I’M GLAD MY ART JUST HAS PINOY VIBES LOL I hope you are having a good day too :^)

a, b, c, d) yessss my Watch Infinity Train agenda is working....

e) aw thank you!! i think you should watch infinity train :)

#ask #trying this new thing where i tag people in the body of the post instead

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ladyartemesia · 4 years

Text

The Terms

◐ PART III of THE ALPHA ◐

◐ Part I ◐ Part II ◐ Series Masterlist ◐

Pairing: Alpha Werewolf Jimin x Omega Reader

Rating: Mature (for this installment)

Warnings: ABO sexual dynamics including discussion of scenting, marking, mating, and claiming. Violence and discussion of violence relating to ritual combat. Jin’s pheromones need their own warning. Yoonji and Yunli are not the same person.

Word Count: 2300

Author’s Note: As promised, this chapter is twice as long as the previous two and a lot of what people have been speculating about in the asks is discussed in this chapter... along with a few surprises...

“Luna rex provocatione means ‘the moon king’s challenge.’ It is never invoked lightly as its consequences are grave indeed... If an alpha believes that he is the true Alpha and the goddess has placed another in his path as a test of worthiness and dedication to the pack, then he will acknowledge his acceptance of this test by declaring luna rex provocatione. Once the challenge has been set forth only the death of the Luna’s first mate or the total surrender of the challenger can satisfy it...”

Text of the traditional speech given by a chief elder to begin a luna rex provocatione ritual [7th century]

“I know you won’t understand, but this isn’t personal-”

Jimin offered his rival an overtly feigned smile.

“You plan to kill me and claim my mate. Which part of that could I possibly take personally?”

Tae snorted somewhere in the background and Yoongi elbowed him hard.

Tradition dictated that both alphas meet with their second-in-commands in the chief elder’s chambers to discuss the terms of combat.

Namjoon brought Min Yoongi and Jimin had somehow ended up with Taehyung.

He didn’t remember actually agreeing to make Tae his second...

It just sort of happened somewhere between calming his hysterical mother and quickly reading up on archaic pack law.

The chief elder coughed uncomfortably. Goddess, this ascension was supposed to be easy. He never in a million moons thought he’d be in this position.

The last chief elder who oversaw a luna rex provocatione ritual had immortalized it in his journal as “the single most horrific moment of my life,” describing in detail the Luna howling in torment at the loss of her mate and the victor collapsing over the corpse of his foe in misery and guilt.

As in the past, the outcome of this conflict was already decided by fate...

Pain and regret weighed heavily on the older man as he considered the younger of the two alphas.

Park Jimin was going to die violently and there was nothing he could do about it.

“Because Kim Namjoon issued the challenge, his opponent will decide combat form. Your choices are human form, half-shifted, and wolf-form. After your choice is declared, Namjoon may add a minor alteration if he so desires. Park Jimin, please declare form.”

“Human,” he answered softly - and every single occupant of the room recoiled in response.

It was bad enough to witness a fight in wolf form or half-shifted... but to engage in ritual combat as a human-

It would be brutal - even psychologically disturbing - without the benefit of a wolf’s hide to mask the savagery.

Namjoon’s eyes widened in shock, but he recovered quickly.

“I request teeth and claws.”

Not quite a half-shift. Teeth and claws allowed for attacks using lengthened canines and claws.

It could make a kill slightly more... humane.

Jimin nodded and the elder pressed his seal over the first of the terms.

The were no windows in the small, stuffy chamber and between the heavy ceremonial garb and the nearly twenty braided praesidium bracelets wrapped around his wrists, Jimin felt as if the blood in his veins was literally coming to a boil.

Though he dared not remove them to relieve his discomfort.

Each bracelet represented a prayer to the goddess. They were given as protection to a loved one before a great trial.

His mother had not stopped making them since the ascension. She’d torn apart her most expensive dress and spent hours twisting the fabric strips into intricate traditional braids while she prayed...

Jimin’s fingers sought them out for comfort as the miserable parade of ritual legalities marched past the two hour mark.

Many agreements (like Jimin’s insistence that his mother not be allowed to attend the fight and Namjoon’s pledge to financially support the Park family in the event of their alpha’s death) were settled quickly, however the sheer number of details to be solidified was overwhelming.

“I think it best if we adjourn for a short recess,” the chief elder sighed wearily and Taehyung nearly ran Yoongi over in his desperate scramble to finally use a restroom.

Jimin turned to leave, but a hand on his elbow drew him back.

“I want you to know, I did this for you as much as for the rest of them.”

His tone was low and carefully respectful, but Jimin’s wolf snapped irritably at the elder alpha’s presumption.

“What an... interesting statement to make.”

He pointedly removed Namjoon’s hand from his arm with calculated nonchalance.

“No one expected you to be chosen... Jungkook, or even Hoseok, would have been an understandable alternative, but you’ve never taken being an alpha seriously-”

“According to you,” Jimin fired back, finally allowing his voice to harden in cold fury. “I have always known and valued what I am. I simply never felt called to your version of it.”

Namjoon tilted his head in acknowledgement.

Park Jimin might not look particularly dangerous ... but for the first time, the Kim alpha considered that he may have underestimated his opponent.

“Either way - the pack does not trust you. They are not confident in your ability to lead them,”his hands fisted reflexively at his side as he considered the weight of his next words, “...but if you beat me, they will never question your strength.”

Jimin’s hands tightened into fists.

Namjoon might be an overconfident windbag, but he had a point.

He faced an uphill battle to subdue a restless pack as well as increased threats from rival clans looking to expand their own power and territory.

The challenge was a chance to establish his claim.

Or die trying.

“You think rather highly of yourself,” he chuckled and Namjoon bristled indignantly.

“I have devoted my life to the pack. I have never questioned my duty to them.” He leaned forward a bit, holding the younger alpha’s gaze with purpose. “That is why I will not hesitate to kill you.”

“And what of the Luna?” Jimin wondered in mock contemplation. “Do you think she will take kindly to the loss of her mate if you win?”

Namjoon’s jaw clenched. The Luna was clearly a sore subject.

“If I win, then you were never really her mate were you? Your entire existence boils down to nothing more than a sacred test in my destined path.”

Silence stretched heavily as the two alphas regarded one another with open hostility.

“I will fight you till the last shred of life is ripped from my body,” Jimin snarled.

A shiver ran down Namjoon’s spine, though he was far from intimidated.

“At least now you sound like an alpha,” he scoffed.

Then he was gone.

Jimin waited till the sound of the older man’s footsteps faded before slamming his fist into the table.

He needed air and to be alone with his thoughts for moment before he could civilly resume the endless negotiations.

Unfortunately, the only place offering both of those things was a cluttered balcony near the back of the building.

The room traditionally designated for luna rex provocatione proceedings had been used as a storage closet for at least the last hundred years (and therefore needed to be hastily cleared after Namjoon’s inconvenient declaration). Consequently, the room’s former contents (piles of toys from this season’s charity drive) were now strewn haphazardly across the narrow outdoor space like debris from a brightly colored bomb.

Jimin carefully navigated his way to the balcony’s wooden rail and lifted his eyes to the moon.

“Please,” he begged softly “... send me a sign.”

“If he did not hate me before, he surely does now,” you sighed, staring morosely at the lights flickering in the old chamber building. Somewhere within the bowels of that archaic fire hazard, your mate of less than twenty-four hours was negotiating a nightmare.

“This is not your fault, Luna-“

“Isn’t it?” you snapped. “That’s who I am. I’m the Luna, if I could just accept another mate without someone getting their throat ripped out, then none of this would be necessary.”

Jin sqeezed your hand sympathetically.

The council placed you under guard in a small cottage across from the elder’s chambers in order to prevent the alphas from having any contact with you. Since then you kept a constant vigil from its rickety porch, hoping to catch a glimpse of the young man whose life you had ruined.

“Would you do it then - if you could?... Would you accept another mate to spare the Park alpha?”

Bitter tears burned at the corner of your eyes.

“Yes,” you whispered, “...I think I’d do almost anything to save him.”

Comfortable silence settled between you for several minutes - until a small flutter of movement drew your gaze to the chamber balcony.

Then he walked out.

And just the sight of him was enough to slam your heart up into your throat.

Jimin...

Jin quickly turned to your guard and unleashed a wave of pheromones that would have knocked out a grizzly bear. The guard whined and abandoned her post to follow him inside without a second thought, leaving you conveniently alone.

Male omegas are a rare and dangerous breed, you observed wryly, before retuning your attention to the man across the path.

A painful ache twisted hungrily in your gut as you watched him tilt his face to the sky. Somehow the relentless beauty of his features was even more captivating in the moonlight...

Suddenly a strong breeze braided though the air around you, playing with the loose strands of your hair and carrying your scent away from the small cottage and up to the balcony where the young alpha sought solace.

Jimin’s eyes shot open as the rich, unforgettable essence of you exploded over his senses. His gaze immediately locked with yours, cutting through the distance and darkness with an intensity that left you reeling.

You could not see his face at the ascension - instead the blindfold left you burning with curiosity as your mind conjured a thousand variations of how he might have looked on you in that moment...

Yet every last one of them fell short.

You could never have imagined the naked longing - the fierce desire - that burned boldly in his regard.

A strange, desperate frustration overtook you.

He was too far away - and Namjoon was going to take him from you before you could touch him again - before you could breathe him in again-

The cruel wind continued to pull your fragrance toward Jimin like an erotic incense, yet it offered you no such gift in return. You could not discern his scent and you wanted to - needed to - with a voracity that was almost blinding.

Please...

A mournful whimper tore from your lips and Jimin’s body reacted instantly to your distress.

Suddenly he was digging through the piles of mismatched trinkets and toys on the balcony, tossing aside all manner of discarded treasures till he finally found what he was searching for.

“Jimin-hyung! Where are you? Chief elder wishes to resume-”

Jimin glanced toward door as his fingers worked frantically over the object his hands.

“I’m on my way!”

His eyes found yours one last time, then he drew back-

A muted thwack echoed a few inches from your shoulder as whatever Jimin threw embedded itself into one of the porch beams.

Your fingers trembled with anticipation as you reached forward to retrieve (what appeared to be) a pointed metal dart - probably from a wall-mounted Darts game someone donated...

A length of braided cloth was tied tightly to the shaft and you recognized it immediately as a praesidium bracelet.

Soothing waves of Jimin’s scent drifted up from the fabric where it had rubbed repeatedly against the glands in his wrist.

Your body calmed instantly. Cold desperation gave way to the soft warmth of tenderness.

He knew.

He knew what you needed and he found a way to send it to you.

Your hand closed tightly over the bracelet as you crumpled to your knees and sobbed.

A gentle knock sounded at Namjoon’s door and a familiar figure slipped inside.

“...Yunli?”

Namjoon blinked for several moments in confusion before closing his evening read to approach her.

“Yunli... why - what are you doing here? It’s late - the ritual set to begin at sunrise.” He glanced at the door behind her, “Is Yoongi with you?”

She shook her head.

“My brother doesn’t know I’m here.”

Namjoon’s eyes widened as he considered all the ways his best friend’s younger sister sneaking into his house (in the middle of the night no less) could go horribly wrong.

“Ah. Well... that’s ...not good,” he mumbled, running his hand over his face. “Are-um - are you here to wish me luck for tomorrow?”

He reached for a glass of water to soothe his suddenly dry throat.

“No. Frankly I hope Park Jimin beats you to a bloody pulp.”

Water sprayed comically out of Namjoon’s mouth as he began to cough violently.

“What?!” *wheeze* “Why?!”

She offered him a sad smile.

“You know why, Kim Namjoon.”

He did know why.

Yunli had loved him (or believed she loved him) since she was a little girl.

He sighed heavily.

“Yunli, we’ve been over this-”

“One week. The change comes to me in one week-”

“You’re Yoongi’s sister-”

“I’ll be twenty years old, and for the last time I’m not your sister-”

“Goddess above, Yunli!” he shouted, “You’re just a child!”

Yunli’s hands gripped the collar of his shirt and yanked him down to her level.

“I am not a child!” she growled.

Then her mouth was on his and every single thought he ever had disappeared.

There was only her.

Heat poured through him like heavy syrup as his senses surrendered one by one. His arms wrapped around her without the slightest hesitation, as if their sole purpose was draw her in.

Sweet... Oh goddess, she’s sweet.

Yunli whined needily and a possessive growl rumbled from his chest in response.

Then she was pulling back - wrenching herself away from him with an anguished sob.

Bitter tears flowed freely down her impossibly beautiful face and Namjoon - who spent the majority of his life barely acknowledging his heart - suddenly felt it shatter.

“You should have waited for me,” she whispered.

“Yunli-I-” he tried calling out to her, but it was no use.

She was already gone.

“Are you sure you have everything you need?”

Jimin offered his second a distracted smile and nodded. His room looked the same as it did the morning of the ascension, yet his entire life was different...

“You were great today, Taehyung. I couldn’t have done it without you.”

Tae felt his chest swell with pride. He didn’t want to think about what sunrise might bring, but he was determined to serve his old friend well.

For as long as he could.

“I don’t know about that,” he chuckled, recalling that he fell asleep on his feet for three entire terms before anyone noticed. “You’re a surprisingly ruthless negotiator. I barely contributed.”

“I wasn’t alone though...” Jimin whispered, “and when Namjoon first issued the challenge... I thought I might be.”

Taehyung gulped, pushing back the oppressive sorrow settling in his gut in favor of some levity.

“You - uh - you actually missed the wildest part of the whole day.”

“...I did?”

“Yeah it was bizarre. Did you notice the table was different after our break?”

Jimin shrugged. His thoughts had been... elsewhere at that point.

“We couldn’t find you at first, so you missed the whole ordeal but - when we all came back to the room, that big oak table was split in half.”

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End Note: Yoonji was mentioned earlier in the story. She is Yoongi and Yunli’s cousin. Yunli and Yoonji are separate characters.

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