#circus city au

[deprived-apathy]

JUST LET THE POOR MAN SAY HI TO HER GODDAMMIT.

(the 2nd part is beautifully drawn by: @numericalsins)

this is basically their circus city idea, so full credit to that wonderful person!

#the amazing digital circus #digital circus #original character #pomni #kinger #jax #circus city au #friend tag

[theragathas]

WELCOME TO THE RAGAVERSE!!

WE SPEND TOO MUCH TIME ON THIS BLOG, PLZ ASK OUR RAGATHAS ANYTHING (as long as it is not nsfw, question that is suggestive or sfw are fine)

Amanda (From Mafia x Coffee Shop AU)

One has to be cold and brash in a job like hers, however that doesn't mean they can't be nice as well! Amanda's the type to switch from calm and collected and harsh and deadly at the drop of a hate. Who says hopeless romantics can't make it look like an accidental?

Cleric!Ragatha (From Dungeons of Dragons AU)

As a follower of the god of justice Tyr, she knows the right path no matter what rules one has to break to give proper punishments for those who deserve it. But that doesn't mean she's the BEST at giving advice. Of course, when you're forced with necromancy powers, who would be?

Ragavamp (From Supernatural AU)

She is THE most unhinged out of all of the Ragathas. This half abstracted vampire like variation of the ragdoll has a very inconsistent personality. She goes from conscious, to rambling, to cryptic, to even acting similar to Kinger. Although she tries to be presentable, her need for blood as to stop abstracting isn't exactly the most likable thing

Sinful!Ragatha (From Sinful Circus AU)

One word to describe Sinful! is: Depressed wet dog. She's clumsy, accident prone, and easily harmed. She pretends that everything's fine but it's REALLY NOT FINE. It's actually really sad sometimes to see her just take the brunt of anything and everything that she endures, and there's a reason she has a satchel of needle and thread in a bag where ever she goes

Swap!Ragatha (From Swap AU)

Chubby and mean, Swap is basically the Jax in the room. She constantly plays pranks, bullies, and torments anyone around her. She uses her looks to control the AI jester of her world so she could get away with all of it too. Having a bit of a surperiority complex, there's nothing she won't do just for any sort of reaction- inlcuding things that end with her getting harmed

BlossomCloud (From Warriors Cat AU)

She was once a clan cat but now she live comfortably with her wife and her other friends in a human house, proud mother of six kits. She is one of the most friendly Ragatha, maybe a bit too much.

LC (From The Literal Circus AU)

An acrobatic and a trapeze artist in the circus, she is the Ragatha that worries a lot while pretending everything is fine. She is a great listener but she didn’t get paid enough for listening people’s trauma.

Red (From Red Riding Hood AU)

Quiet huntress, Red with her trusty shotgun roamed the nearby forest. She was never the type to socialize, hence why she lived alone with her wolf.

Gluttony (From Circus of Hell AU)

One of the seven deadly sin but was surprisingly a people pleaser. Her nice attitude didn’t quite match up with her status, neither does her looks.

Hades (From the Goddess AU)

Goddess of the underworld, despite being a god, she is quite close to morals. Hades is a calm and gentle goddess who loved her wife deeply.

Mafia (From Mafia x Pimp AU)

Mafia is a brutal and selfish person but she often mask it with sickly sweet words or tones as to not scare others away from her. She is the only one that haven’t get together with their AU’s Pomni.

Agatha (From Country City Girl AU)

Farmer girl in the country side, butcher in the small village, she was a bit dense when it comes to love. Trying to court Pamela with a wheel of cheese…

Ragamaster(From Ragatha Ringmaster AU)

The ringmaster of her AU, she is a con-artist scamming others online. Never trust her words unless it had details. Ragamaster is much of a carefree AI that likes to sit back and see the chaos unfold while taking notes. Also she said she is the only one without a Pomni?

AI!Ragatha [Cyber AU]

The only remaining AI of her line, AI Ragatha's entire existence is dangerous. Other AI Ragatha's had a habit of acting on their own an doing what they believe is best, which is why they were recalled and destroyed in the first place.

Apocalypse!Ragatha [Apocalypse AU]

In a world where literally any day you could die and join the undead, Apocalypse Ragatha is here to keep everyone's head on their shoulders. A fierce leader who protects her crew of survivors. Howver one day she went mad when her precious Pomni was bitten, now strike with madness and denial Apocalypse Ragatha will do anything to bring her Pomni back.

Giantess!Ragatha [Songbird AU]

A lone giantess on an island by herself. Giantess Ragatha has picked up quite the hobbies in order to keep herself busy, she just loves animals and talkin about her Pomni. (**Never ask her about her Pomni**)

Cyber AU, Songbird AU and Apocalypse AU belong @fenrirfoxxer

Warriors Cat AU, The Literal Circus AU, Red Riding Hood AU, The Circus of Hell, The Goddess AU, Mafia x Pimp AU Country City Girl AU and Ragatha Ringmaster AU belongs to @inkyprism

Mafia x Coffee Shop AU, Dungeon of Dragons AU, Supernatural AU, Sinful Circus AU and Swap AU belongs to @nobody-nexus

#tadc ragatha #ragaverse #Cyber AU #Songbird AU #Apocalypse AU #Warriors Cat AU #Country City Girl AU #Ragatha Ringmaster AU #Mafia x Pimp AU #The Goddess AU #Red Riding Hood AU #The Literal Circus AU #Circus of Hell AU #Mafia x Coffee Shop AU #Swap AU #sinful circus au #supernatural au #DnD AU #ask blog #ask anything

[queenofthedisneyverse]

MY ASKS ARE OPEN!!!

Feel free to ask me anything about these au's

Most recent:

El santuario de los padres

Addams family au

Travelling circus au

Angelic au

Encanto God au

Mad house au

Twins of mischief au

Older:

City life au

Star children au

Past life au

Giftless sisters au

Wolfwalkers au

Protector madrigals au

Rich kid au

Mafia au

Some of these will be edited/rewritten but feel free to ask me about new or old ones in the meantime!

#el santuario de los padres au #encanto addams family au #travelling circus au #angelic au #encanto god au #madhouse au #city life au #star children au #giftless sisters au #wolfwalkers au #encanto au #au #camilo madrigal #mirabel madrigal #antonio madrigal #pepa madrigal #isabela madrigal #dolores madrigal #alma madrigal #bruno madrigal #julieta madrigal #agustin madrigal #felix madrigal #my asks are open

[nightlychaotic]

Cherry Blossom Blood

TW: Blood, descriptions of cadavers, flesh carving

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

He cursed looking down at the body. The long, methodical cuts tracing delicate patterns all along the former goon’s arms and chests. They looked almost like something he could imagine being painted on a sacrificial victim. Crimson lines springing to life following the soft strokes of a brush, or in this case, knife.

Seven dead in as many weeks. All victims were found in the dark alleys that littered Red Hood’s territory. Never in the same alley twice in a row. All the victims appeared to be killed onsite, as the large dark stains and puddles surrounding them would at the very least suggest.

No traces of the weapon used or anything of use left behind. Only the small sprig of cherry blossoms, tossed back towards the body, resting in the blood. A calling card. Exactly like the other six scenes.

He stood, picking up the small sprig as he did so, twirling it idly between two fingers before snapping it in half, leaving them to drop back to the ground as he turned away.

“Sorry, Bill,” he muttered, walking away from the body. “I’ll find who did this to you.”

—---------------------------

Jason stopped outside of the small bar briefly, glancing up at the neon green sign reading The Black Cat’s Path. He remembered Bill mentioned it once or twice, offering drinks after his shifts some nights. An offer he had yet to accept. An offer he couldn’t accept now. 

He shook his head as rain started to fall. A drop here and there at first before quickly turning into a downpour, the wind tunneling down the streets only further motivating him to duck for cover inside the bar, the door getting slammed shut behind him by the wind, pushing him further in. The loud slam drawing the eyes of several patrons and the bartender.

One in particular caught his attention as he took a seat on the opposite side of the bar, snagging the bartender's attention for a drink before looking around.

She stood out in the dimly lit bar, her yellow halter top seemed too bright, capturing the eye. A tattoo of a ladybug stood out against a couple of scars that littered her shoulders, resting on top of one as if it was the stem of a flower or a blade of grass.

She glanced over, locking eyes with him with a small smile, taking a sip of her drink before glancing away, idly rotating the glass in her hand, saying something to the bartender, getting a laugh from him .

He pushed off from where he'd been sitting, moving to sit next to her. She spoke up before he could even open his mouth.

"Took you long enough."

“Is that so?”

“I'm not blind. You've been glancing over at me since you walked in."

“It’s hard not to. You stand out in a place like this.”

“I’ll choose to take that as a compliment.”

“I wouldn’t have come over if it wasn’t, Doll.”

She smiled, signaling to the bartender for another drink as she looked him over. “I haven’t seen you in here before.”

“Friend of mine used to frequent here. Invited me along a few times. Bill-”

“I know Bill. Was just talking with him yesterday. He was nice enough for goon. Told me once that the health packages were better than most you’d find elsewhere. I have a hard time believing that though.”

“He was in here yesterday?”

She nodded, while the bartender brought her drink over. “He came in every Tuesday. A strong steady rhythm.”

“You’re a day off if you’re looking for him.”

Jason shook his head. “Nah. No. He was killed last night. Was hoping to see if I could find anyone who might have known anything about who the hell’s been killing all these guys.”

The pair exchanged a glance as she took a swig of her drink, swirling it idly for a moment before she placed it down.

“I’m sorry to hear that,” she told him, the sentiments echoed by the bartender.

“Neither of you would happen to have an idea of what could have happened or who might have done this.”

“I’m sorry, no.”

“Didn’t expect ya to.”

“I do hope your night hasn’t been an absolute waste though.”

“That remains to be seen.”

“Is that so?”

“Well I’ve found a nice bar with a pretty lady.”

“And?”

“Well I imagine a nice woman like yourself isn’t the type to leave with a stranger,” he said, downing the rest of his drink as she laughed.

“Wanna bet.”

“I’d love to, Doll.”

“Luka! Lover Boy’s on me tonight.”

“You got it Mar.”

She grinned, finishing off her own, grabbing her jacket off the chair as she allowed him to lead her out of the bar. He held open the door for her as she shrugged her jacket on, the torrential downpour having died down, large puddles and the dark clouds overhead the clearest signs it had happened in the first place

“Mar? That short for something, Doll?”

“Marinette. But you can feel free to keep calling me Doll. I don’t suppose you have a name either?”

“Jason.”

“Well, Jason, where to?”

“Anywhere we could get away from these crowded sidewalks.”

"Well I know a place, but if we get caught kissing in a small, dark, kind of shady alleyway, it's on you," she whispered.

He grinned, catching her by the waist and pulling her close to him.

“I'll happily take all the blame, Doll."

“Good.”

She pulled away, taking him with her into the alley way, putting some distance between the mouth of the alley and them before pulling him in for a kiss.

He wasted no time in returning it, holding her, gentle at first before tightening his grip as she deepened the kiss for a moment, pulling away with a smile, stepping back further at the clatter from the front of the alley way.

“That’s my cue to get going.”

“Can I walk you home?”

“I’m a big girl. I can handle myself. Besides, aren’t you the one who should be worried?”

“Why is that?”

“Haven’t you heard? There’s a killer on the loose. And I’m afraid you might be just their type.”

“I’ll keep my eyes peeled.”

“Good,” She turned, pausing, glancing at the dark stain on the ground, closing her eyes for a moment.

“You okay there, Doll?”

She shook her head, giving him a small smile, pulling away from him. “Perfectly fine. Just reminded of some phantoms of the past. I’ll catch you around Jason.”

She was gone before he could respond, turning the corner and melting into the crowd.

It wasn’t until a few days later he realized that they were at the sight of the third killing.

—---------------------------

Marinette breezed into the bar, hair mussed by the wind, scrapes down her upper arm and looking every bit a tired mess as she lay her coat on the stool as sat on top of it, seemingly oblivious to everyone around her.

“Rough night, Doll?”

“Jason,” she blinked, focusing on him with a small grin. “I wasn’t expecting to see you here.”

“Thought I’d try my luck at seeing you again.”

“Tonight is unfortunately not the night for that.”

“Everything alright?” he asked, signaling for a round for the two of them. SHe sighed before speaking up.

“My last boyfriend- We tried, but it just didn't work out. Figured we were better off like siblings than lovers. Well Tuesday’s are typically nights I take for myself, but he just had to go and make them stressful instead of relaxing. ”

“What did he do?” She snorted, taking a sip of drink. “It’s not so much what he did but what happened to him.”

“What happened to him them?”

"He's dead, again."

“Again?”

“Idiot keeps going off and getting himself killed. One day he’ll realize there won’t always be a revival or cure for him.”

“How many times has he died?”

She shrugged. “Few hundred? Lost track years ago.”

Jason’s mind sputtered as she sat up, twisting to look at her. “He’s died a few hundred times and he’s still kicking?”

“Well not currently. But that’s a problem for tomorrow, when I’ll have to fill him in and rip him a new one for being so fucking careless,” she grit out. The soft anger radiating from her was enough for Jason to not he did not want to see it directed at him. That wasn't the most concerning part of the conversation though.

“Marinette, how are you bringing him back to life?”

“Magic,” she said softly, trying to laugh it off like it was a joke as she looked away. “I’ve always just assumed it was something residual from Paris. We all died, so many times. It just has to be a lingering effect,” she said. Something was off in her voice, she was tense, refusing to meet his eyes as she spoke. 

“And there haven't been any negative side effects?”

“It takes a bit more each time.A little help from time to time. But in the long run, Adrien’s been fine. He’d be better if he learned I could handle myself and stop playing valiant protector. But no. Nothing driving him crazy or anything if that’s what you’re worried about.”

He chuckled, not daring to acknowledge how close she actually was to his concerns. She downed the rest of her drink, hitting the glass down as she put it down.

“You wouldn’t happen to be free tonight, would you?”

“For you, Doll, I think I can clear my schedule.”

“Shall we then?”

“Your place or mine?”

“Yours.”

He nodded, leading her out and down the several blocks to his apartment. 

She hung her coat up on the rack and kicked her shoes off, taking a deep breath as she did so.

Jason only noted the blood soaked spots on her top and pants as they came off, getting more distracted by her than fully noting the blood, instead wrapping his arms around her as she laughed.

“You’ll be the death of me.”

“I should certainly hope so,” she murmured, pressing a line of kisses along his jaw before pulling away with a smile and disappearing into his bedroom, glancing back once with a smile as she called “are you coming or not?” over her shoulder.

—---------------------------

He stood back in the alley he’d been in a week ago with Marinette. The stain once again a puddle where the latest victim lay, the fallen sprig of cherry blossoms having landed next to his eyes. The carvings on him were more intricate than the ones previous. Harsher. Darker. Something about them made his hair stand on end. It felt wrong to be looking at, discomfort and a sense of urgency growing the longer he stood there.

They were different. The markings clearly were done by the same person, but the pattern was different. Unsettling. Archaic in a way. A soft squeak of surprise broke him from his thoughts as he glanced up to see her.

Marinette had just turned the corner, stopping short as she looked at the sight. She stood there for a moment, taking in Red Hood, standing next to the puddle of blood, glancing vaguely over the body, he didn't blame her for not lingering on it, before looking back at Red Hood, turning and walking off. Not looking back once.

He didn’t blame her as he gave the scene on final look over before leaving, relieved when the discomfort dissipated.

—---------------------------

“Jason?” Marinette’s surprised voice rang out from behind him,as she stood on the apartment building steps, keys in hand.

"Am I safe with you?"

"How lucky do you feel?"

“Extremely.”

“Then you should be fine. Come on up,” she invited, pushing her door open and retreating back to where she’d just come from. “So care to share what you’re hiding from?”

“Blonde bartender at The Black Cat. Luka did his most to keep him back , but he’s been on a mission to get me since.”

Marinette laughed as she led him up the stairs. “I see you’ve met Adrien then. He can be a bit protective of me. I’ll talk to him about it later. Sort it all out,” she told him, unlocking her apartment door, tossing her keys on a small table next to the door as she took her coat off. “Make yourself at home. I’m going to go tell Adrien to bug off for a few hours before he barges in here.”

Soft click of the door shutting behind her followed by some muffled voices was all he heard before they grew fainter, leaving him alone in silence.

Her apartment was small but cozy, filled with small touches of her. Piles of fabric in the corner by a table set up with a sewing machine, a small rack of loose leaf tea, a tube of lipstick abandoned to the floor.

He bent down to pick it up, placing it on the coffee table among some fallen buds surrounding the vase proudly displayed on her coffee table, full of cherry blossom sprigs. He froze noticing them, reminiscent of the sprigs found at the crime scenes, the soft glint of a blade resting in the middle of the bouquet drew his eye, finding a delicately carved handle hidden in the vase. He pulled it out as he straightened, turning it over. It was high quality, good quality, well maintained, and well balanced.

He touched the tip to his finger, it bit into his skin easily, cutting him with next to no resistance, clean and precise. The type of blade that would leave the markings carved into the victims.

“I’d be careful with that if I were you,” Marinette spoke up, locking the door behind her. “I’d hate to see something terrible come to you from a wrong mark made.”

“What do you mean by that, Doll?”

“There’s some necromantic energy charged in that knife. Make the right cuts you might rip your soul out. Or call that pit madness you keep such a tight leash on to the forefront.”

Jason froze at her words, tightening his grip on the hilt of the knife as she continued.

“I should have expected you to find that when I left you alone.”

“You’re the one who’s killed all those men the past couple months.”

“I am. What are you going to do about it? Red. Hood,” she whispered, leaning into his space with a small smirk.

“You know.”

“I have for a while.”

 “How did you figure it out?”

“Well, Red Hood’s been poking around after me for quite some time now. Understandable since I am in his- your territory. And then Jason Todd starts poking around as well? And both leaving traces of pit madness hanging in the air where they go? It’s easy to put two and two together when you can sense that kind of stuff.”

"What other other secrets did you keep from me?"

“I have plenty of secrets. Most are best left buried, Jay.”

“You killed Bill.”

“Mmm,” she hummed, smiling softly. “That was the night before we met. I remember you found the body not long after I’d left. Nearly caught me in fact,” she revealed, gently wrapping her hand around his before twisting her hand, applying pressure and pulling the knife from his grip before stepping back, twirling it in her hand for a second before sticking it in her boot. “There we go.”

He grit his teeth, reaching for his gun, coming up empty.

“Looking for something?” her voice rang out as he saw his own gun trained on him. “I could shoot you. But where’s the fun in that?” she asked, kicking out the magazine and tossing both parts behind her. “It’s so much more intimate with a knife.”

“Why?”

“Why did I kill all those people?” she asked with a soft laugh “I lied when I told you about reviving Adrien, that the magic is residual. Sure there’s a fair amount wrapped around him and it certainly helps, but the mangy cat has unfortunately gotten into the bad habit of getting himself killed to protect me. My first kill was to bring him back. A life for a life and all of that. Crafted the knife, charged the energy, found my victim and went to work, painstakingly copying the markings from my grimoire. After that, well I’ve only needed to do that once more recently, I just found out that it’s a nice way to get one’s frustrations out. I’m sure you can understand the feeling.”

He snorted. "And the moral of this story?” he asked.

“Not everything has a moral. I don't have one either."

“So what do you plan to do now?”

“That depends on you, Jay Love. I have no interest in killing you, quite the opposite in fact. I was looking forward to exploring our relationship some more.”

“Me too, Doll. I can’t let you keep killing people in my territory however.”

“I suppose I could go a bit further afield without breaking the five points. There are plenty of other bars I can find men who don’t know how to take no for an answer and goons.”

“That’s the best I can hope to get from you isn’t it?”

“I think it’s a fair compromise.”

He chuckled, sticking his hand in his pocket, gently grabbing the hilt of his own knife as she stepped closer.

“Well what can I say then, Doll?” she asked before pulling her in for a kiss.

She’d been one step ahead of him but if he could injure her, turn the tables into his favor a little more-

She laughed, pulling away from the kiss as she caught his hand, trailing her own knife over the back of his hand, causing him to drop his knife as she slammed him back, knocking over her vase while his back slammed into her coffee table, she followed the momentum coming to rest atop of him as brought her knife down into his shoulder. She was stronger than she looked. Much stronger than he’d guess.

“I told you I don’t want to kill you, Love,” she murmured, twisting the knife, sending that feel of discomfort through his body as she traced delicate lines over his chest. “But there are other things I can do.”

His heart raced as he fought against the rising pit madness. Fighting to keep it back despite every cut she made, seemingly drawing it out more, as she gently traced paths and lines, thin layers of blood following the tip of her knife. She was being gentle with him, true to her word.

He felt her delicate script as she traced her name with a small flourish on his chest, tying it into the patterns she drew with a grin. Pressing a kiss there as she stopped tracing, and he finally lost the fight. She laughed, tucking a sprig of cherry blossoms behind his ear.

“Let’s have some fun, shall we?”

#Maribat #Jasonette #MGIMixer #Serial Killer AU #No Beta this is Mixer #Gotham City Circus

[deadsetobsessions]

AU of my Gotham/Tim Drake! Danny where Danny doesn’t know any knowledge beforehand about the DC universe.

Danny doesn’t know how he got here, but the fact that he now shares something in common with Vlad other than their technical halfa status disgusts him

His new name is Timothy Jackson Drake. It’s so far removed from Danny that his parents had him examined for deafness because he didn’t respond to it. He got better at it, at putting on the mask Janet and Jack Drake wanted to see. So they took him to the circus.

He meets Dick Grayson. Danny thinks the kid is adorable, even if Danny himself is technically younger. He sees the flying Graysons fall. The buzzing in his head doesn’t go away.

He’s five, when the fading spirit of Gotham reaches out and pleads her King to protect her city in her stead. She is fading. He says yes, because she’s one of his. The buzzing in his head settles and oh because that’s what’s been missing this entire time. Danny didn’t have a haunt and Gotham gave him one.

He grieves when she dies, the new title settling around small shoulders, and the city grieves with him. In the city proper, Batman and Robin are having the worst night of their lives in the sudden storm.

He’s nine. Robin is Dick Grayson. Dick Grayson, in turn, is an idiot. Batman… well, he’s at least mentoring and protecting the child vigilante, which is more than Danny ever had. He grows fond of them. How could he not, when they tried their hardest to help his city? To help him?

He shows himself, to the duo, in his Phantom form. It’s still him, still modeled after Danny Fenton’s face instead of Tim Drake’s. Ghosts are a reflection of the soul, after all.

“Who are you,” Batman demands, shielding Robin with half a step.

“Gotham.” He replies. Danny wills the city to affirm his claim and the city wraps its arms around the vigilantes. Batman and Robin understands, a deep well of pure knowledge being tapped into in ways they weren’t truly meant to understand.

“…How?”

“Magic,” Phantom says, dry. He tells them of city spirits, and that they can call him in times of dire need.

Dick calls him to help with Two Face. Two Face learns the pain of unmelting ice to the balls.

His core aches when the Bats fight, but Danny knows now that it is inevitable. They’re part of his haunt, his ‘fraid. He knows these things far before they come into fruition.

Dick moves to a sister city. Phantom expands his haunt to Bludhaven because he doesn’t, won’t, ever leave his Robins to themselves.

Nightwing is hopeful, is pleasantly surprised, and very suspicious when he shows up during patrol.

“Gotham…? What are you doing here…? This isn’t, well, Gotham?”

“Satellite City. It is an extension of myself. You were Robin, yes. You’re Nightwing, now. But that doesn’t mean I won’t protect you when I can.”

Phantom goes back, and finds a kid trying to steal tires to make a living. He guides his Knight to him. The starved features, the bones Danny could see, it tugs at his core. It feels like the Ancient of Fate themselves were pulling him along.

“How’d you know I was taking the wheels?”

“Gotham.”

“Are you… high on shrooms or something?”

Bruce sighs. Batman asks Gotham to meet the new Robin, and chuckles when Jason is surprised by the glowing green figure.

Phantom hides this Robin just as much as the last one. He curls shadows around his vigilantes, sometimes at the same time, and softens what little sounds they made while stalking through his city for crime.

He makes small jokes with Jason. Danny forgets, a little, the crushing loneliness of being Timothy Drake.

“I didn’t kill Garzona!”

“You-”

Batman stops as a chill he’s never had experienced directed at him weaves around his neck. An angry Gotham.

“He didn’t kill him.” Danny slides a cold hand on Jason’s shoulders.

But the damage had been done and the next day, Batman is begging Danny to tell him any clues of where Jason had gone.

“Ethiopia.”

He clears the way for Batman to get to Robin. He clears the way for Bruce to get to Jason.

He’d fallen into the trap of believing that Batman would handle everything when in the end, he’s just a man in a mantle that demands more than he ever thought he’d have to pay.

Robin is dead and Danny grieves. The skies crack open and pours a torrent of smogged rain water upon the streets of Gotham. Despite that, Crime Alley is untouched by flood. They say the second Robin was protecting his home.

In a way, it’s not wrong.

Gotham fishes Batman from the bay, carelessly tossing the broken Joker against a shipping container.

“You can’t keep doing this. You’ll die.”

Bruce, Batman, lays on his back, eyes glazed and empty. “Maybe I want to.” He admits. And Danny can’t lose someone else. It’s already bad enough he feels the death of everyone in his city, he can’t lose him too. But Dick won’t come back. He already denied Gotham when Phantom had asked him to come back. Granted, Dick was nervous about denying him the entire time, but Danny realized that he’d lost a brother in the colors his parents chose for Dick. Danny- Phantom had cradled Dick in a swaddle of shadows and comfort.

“Alright.”

“Is it? Alright? I- I don’t want to fail you, Gotham.”

“It is. You’ve always made me proud. You will always make me proud. Whether it be by different name, it matters to me not. Stay. Heal.”

Like Dick was given permission, like he received a hint of peace, Dick Grayson crumpled to the floor and sobbed into Gotham’s shoulder.

(Later, long after Dick Grayson realized his little brother was also his city personified, he cries again into Tim’s shoulders after the later dropped a flower pot perfectly on top of Catalina Flores’ head.)

Gotham, Phantom, Danny makes a choice.

“Tomorrow, a child will show up at your door. You will let him in.”

“No- I can’t. I won’t.” He knows what Danny will ask of him.

“You will.” Danny doesn’t ever do it with his people, with his city, but dire times call for dire actions. It is an order. And Batman is Gotham’s knight. “You will. You will train him. You need a Robin to leash your brutality. I need a Robin, for Robin is my hope. The city’s hope. Our people’s hope. Do not forget the goal you have set out to accomplish in my city.”

Batman rages at him, until he falls unconscious from the wounds he’s gathered. Danny brings him home. He tells Alfred what to expect tomorrow. Bruce wakes up, eyes fixated on the crack that appeared on Danny’s neon green face. “Did. Did I do that?”

Danny nods slowly.

Batman crumples into Bruce Wayne. “Okay.” He says. “Alright. Tomorrow.”

Gotham watches him, unreadable. “Tomorrow.” He says, before fading away.

Tim Drake shows up at the door. Nightwing shows up not long after. Tim Drake adapts to Bruce Wayne’s cold looks and brutal training. Slowly, but surely, he leashes in Batman’s grief fueled brutality and less criminals go to prison with half of their lives beaten out of them.

Batman doesn’t see Gotham as much anymore. He feared that he’s angered his city, that he is no longer welcome.

When Tim figures it out… he allows the roads and the shadows to help Batman once more.

Batman stared intently at the extra coverage. “Thank you,” Tim hears him whisper. “I’m sorry.”

And when Jason Todd comes back to life and attacks Tim in the tower, Tim lets Hood beat him. Gotham had failed him, as Jason’s city. He deserves it. (He doesn’t but Danny had gone past the point of being healthy about his own physical wellbeing. Perhaps being a city spirit this long had affected him, even with the King’s title mitigating the worst of the damages.

“HE REPLACED ME!”

“Because I ordered him to.” Tim whispers, past the pain of a broken leg.

“You? Order Batman around? If you’re going to lie, make it a better one, Replacement.”

Tim catches Jason’s wrist, the one holding the knife to Tim’s throat.

“Robin,” he says simply, allowing Gotham to come out and peer at the child that is his.

Jason stares, disbelieving. Gotham had… Gotham had come by and approved of his plans to clean up Crime Alley. Gotham had extracted a promise not to damage the buildings.

“No.”

His city stares back and him and Jason stumbles away. Tim shifts into Danny, into Gotham.

“You…”

“I am Gotham. I- I did not want to wear these colors. They were yours and Dick’s. But Bruce was hurting the city, he was hurting me. So I made sure he stopped.”

Jason stares at the new cracks, the fresh ones he just caused and the old ones he does not remember being on Danny’s ghostly skin.

Jason swallows. “I’m sorry.”

“As am I. I am sorry I was not there to save you. I am sorry that you died.”

Jason stares at him. The Replacement is Gotham. Jason almost destroyed his city.

“I am glad that you’ve returned. That you’re alive, now.”

“…Really?”

“Always.”

Alternative Version of the above Tower Scene:

Jason slides the knife against the Replacement’s neck.

Danny sighs. “I can’t believe I’m dying again.”

Jason pauses. “What the fuck did you just say, Replacement?”

Danny rolls his eyes at him and Jason rethinks his decision of not offing the little fucker right away.

“You think you’re the first one to die in this household? Get a grip. I did it first, way before you did, jackass.”

Tim is 14. He’s a child. What the fuck is Jason doing?

“When…?”

“How do you think I became Gotham, little bird?”

Jason freezes. And then he’s scrambling backwards, the knife flung away in his horror.

Tim shifts into Gotham and Jason bites back a cut of regret and bitterness.

He… no, what? What even is happening?

“Why is the Joker not dead? You… you told me that you loved me. That Gotham… that-”

“I’m cruel, little bird. The Joker would not suffer as much if he were dead.”

“He’s killing people! He’s killing your own!”

“So everyone thinks.”

“What?”

“I am Gotham, little bird. Mass hallucinogenic gasses are so within my reach to the point it is concerning. Perhaps you should help Ivy with the city clean up?”

“Huh?!”

#genius tim drake #gotham bay is a corpse dumping ground #danny phantom #dc x dp #batman #bruce wayne #tim drake #jason todd #red hood #dick grayson #bamf danny phantom #nightwing #bludhaven #gotham #gotham is Danny’s haunt #protective Danny #Danny Fenton #Danny doesn’t have the familiarity of knowing the universe he’s been reborn into #so he doesn’t have the emotional crutch of distracting himself #Danny is both protecc and attack #Danny grieves gotham and Jason #Danny: fuck I’ll fix you myself #Batman is Gotham’s plumber lol

[captain-joongz]

fanfiction recommendations/my favourite reads in 2023

ot8/multiple members

♤ in the same class as ateez by @essenteez

◇ murphy's law by @atzfilm

alien!ateez, soulmate au

♧ into the aurora by @honeyhotteoks

idol!ateez x non-idol!reader

☆ inception by @remedyx

dragon!ateez, kings!ateez

♤ hotel california + paradise gardens by @mint-yooxgi

demon!ateez, yandere, supernatural au

◇ morning mist by @mint-yooxgi

dragon au, fated lovers

♧ deep down. by @seventhcallisto

a/b/o, idol au, 9th member au

☆ in love and lore by @shadowynn

demon!ateez, soulmates au, supernatural au

♤ dew drops at dawn by @sunmoonjune

demon!ateez, soulmates

◇ breed by @sanjoongie

alien!ateez, sexual experiments

♧ oh my *** by @ohmyamor

guardian angel!ateez

☆ first flight to hong kong by @byuntrash101

flight attendant!reader, kind of sex work, since reader gets paid

♤ circus by @lani-heart

hybrid!ateez, writer!journalist!reader

◇ wider by @seventhcallisto

9th member au, bf!ateez

♧ the best friend's code by @tenelkadjowrites

hongjoong, seonghwa x reader, best friends to lovers

☆ we ransacked the city by @tenelkadjowrites

hongjoong, seonghwa x reader, rich kids au, menaces to society united

♤ be the light by @written-in-flowers

seonghwa, hongjoong x reader, historical au, royalty au

◇ sex and embers and frost by @sanjoongie

dragon!seonghwa, san x bunny!reader

♧ between friends by @anyamaris

seonghwa, hongjoong x reader, best friends au

☆ my filthy boy by @potatomountain

bf!woo x reader x witch/hybrid!ateez, coven shenanigans

♤ compromise by @cyberpxnk

bf!seonghwa x reader x footballer!yunho, infidelity with a twist

◇ it's you by @holybibly

best friends to lovers, threesome

♧ sharing is caring by @ja3hwa

seonghwa, hongjoong, san x reader

☆ ateez as royals who fall for you (hyung line) + (maknae line) by @eightmakesonebraincell

♤ five for five by @bh-archive

hongjoong x san x chan x hyunjin x juyeon x reader

kim hongjoong

◇ red by @nateezfics

established relationship, public sex, bathroom sex

♧ forbidden fruit by @nateezfics

greek mythology au, hades!hongjoong

☆ deal by @hongism

roommates to lovers, sassy joong

♤ marigold by @yoongiseesawmp3

frat boy!hongjoong, best friends to lovers

◇ tell me to stop by @tenelkadjowrites

best friends to lovers

♧ declaration by @tenelkadjowrites

virgin!hongjoong, roommates to lovers

☆ shells by @last-words-ofashootingstar

mermaid!hongjoong, yandere

♤ project d by @setsugekka

exes to lovers, infidelity, racing au

◇ off the table by @setsugekka

established relationship, morning sex

♧ the dressing room by @imaginidol

idol!hongjoong, best friends to fucking (?) for "stress relief"

☆ paint me yours by @moonseonghwa

artist!hongjoong, fwb au

♤ ohmami by @bambikisss

bad boy!hongjoong, racer au (mentioned), best friends to lovers

◇ hideaway by @minisugakoobies

stoner!frat boy!hongjoong, strangers to lovers

♧ what lies beneath by @noramoons

siren!hongjoong, a little angsty but wholesome

park seonghwa

☆ better check twice by @essenteez

accidental nude au, brother's best friend!seonghwa

♤ attention by @tenelkadjowrites

camboy!seonghwa x inexperienced reader

◇ essence by @whatudowhennooneseesyou

siren!seonghwa, dark, yandere, mommy!seonghwa

♧ the thing about pretty boys by @wonusite

friends to lovers, seonghwa proving he got it

ATEEZ rec list pt.2 BTS, TxT, Stray Kids, Seventeen, NCT rec list

#ateez fic recs #kpop fic recs #ateez fic #ot8 x reader #hongjoong fic #hongjoong smut #hongjoong fluff #seonghwa fic #seonghwa smut #seonghwa fluff #yunho fic #yunho smut #yunho fluff #yeosang fic #yeosang smut #yeosang fluff #yeosang angst #san fic #san smut #san fluff #mingi fic #mingi smut #mingi fluff #wooyoung x reader #wooyoung fic #wooyoung smut #poly ateez

[dudethatsmyundeaduncle]

The thing I love about a Reverse Robins AU, but I never get to really see fleshed out, is that Dick Grayson's Robin changes everything about being Batman's sidekick.

Like you can make up ur choice of bird or bat themed sidekick to ride along with batman during their tenure at his side and that's cool but the title is Batman&Robin. Like they are thee dynamic duo.

So what I'm saying is, in a reverse robins AU no matter whose sidekick is the first and what name they take inevitably the best team up is Gonna end up being 40+ yrold Bruce Wayne and 8 yrold Dick Grayson.

Like the drama there y'all!? Not just in sibling rivalry, because I'm sure they were all good sidekicks in their own right, but Dick and Bruce together are just different.

Dick as Robin comes out of the corner with a steel chair leaving everyone stunned because he's the best of them. It's not even a competition. If he's not the first then everything from the way he moves, the way he quips, the way he fights, makes him the last.

I can't imagine getting a new little sibling who is just suddenly like a fuckin prodigy out of nowhere. And like yeah obviously he's gonna make mistakes and get into fights with Bruce and constantly be learning.

But can u imagine those older Batkids getting to stand back and watch in awe as Batman&Robin is born. As this little kid who lost everything, home to no place but a circus cart and with nothing but the clothes on his back, creates a legend in Gotham. A legend the city holds their fuckin breath to see born because Robin is magic.

Just...like can u imagine how devestating and amazing that would be as a previous batman sidekick? He's not even a replacement for you because he's so different he's, dare anyone say, better.

This kids in a league all his own and he's your little kid brother Dick Grayson and that's terrifying.

#i just have thoughts #YALL DONT WANNA TALK TO ME ABOUT REVERSE ROBIN AU OK CUZ IVE HAD THOUGHTS SINCE DAY 1 #DC #Batman #Batfam #Dick Grayson #Bruce Wayne #batkids #reverse robins

[audhd-nightwing]

the eldritch Guardians of gotham notice batman when he first emerges- they see how he protects their city, so they gift him the abilities of a bat: wings, night vision, enhanced senses, fangs

bruce wayne becomes a shut-in after his parents die. then he travels the world only to come back the same old shut-in. he works from home, and doesn’t leave the manor. every window is covered. only lucius fox and alfred pennyworth ever enter or leave the house

one night the bat follows sirens to a circus tent, and he watches as a young boy is escorted out, crying for his parents. the next day alfred pennyworth shows up at gotham’s social services and requests to become a foster parent. a month later (money might speed the process along) dick grayson is out of juvie and the orphanage and into the safety of wayne manor

bruce tries to hide his wings when the boy arrives, but dick is fascinated by them and thinks they’re “awesome”. bruce explains how he got them, and that he is batman.

later, when batman gains a partner- robin- the Guardians of gotham bless the boy with gifts similar to his mentor: robin wings, enhanced senses, and nails that sharpen into talons

dick grayson becomes a shut-in like bruce, and is home-schooled by alfred. he doesn’t mind, he didn’t have friends his age in the circus either, and alfred and bruce are good company. bruce does let him get pets, though, a three-legged puppy he names Haley and a bloodhound named Ace

when he grows out of robin and away from gotham, the Guardians give him different wings (steller’s jay) to show they support his independence. he lives at titans tower for a while before moving to blüdhaven with his best friend donna troy. dick remains a shut-in, but takes online college courses and goes out often as a new hero- nightwing. he goes out in the mask during the day, something he never did in gotham, and spends most of his time as nightwing- not that he minds. (troia is only his nighttime vigilante partner since donna has an actual day job)

the cycle repeats with jason. however, when jason claws his way out of his grave, the Guardians guide him back to the manor where bruce finds him. when it seems like jason may never recover from his comatose state, the Guardians show bruce a lazarus pit beneath gotham, and despite his hesitation they assure him no harm will come to jason if they have a say in it

jason is revived without the nasty side effects (thanks, eldritch beings) and dick moves back to gotham. jason also leaves robin behind for a different name- red hood- and is gifted new wings (cardinal). in this au the bats & birds are more morally grey and will kill people, but only the worst of the worst/repeat offenders. jason still becomes a crime lord but he only kills when necessary and has no pit madness.

dick and jason notice their young neighbor tim drake is often home alone/without his parents and convince bruce to let him in on their secret and have him stay over at the manor. bruce eventually agrees and they later adopt tim. tim never becomes robin but he does know about their vigilante identities (og way- recognized dick as robin and connected the dots).

tim will help out on comms and basically this au’s Oracle. babs does not become a vigilante in this, instead she becomes a lawyer, but she is still paralyzed by the joker as a civilian (pre-jason’s death, bc bruce kills the joker after that)

steph works with the bats as Spoiler, and is eventually let it on their identities. she and tim bond over being the only ‘normal’ ones

when cass comes along, she is gifted the same powers as bruce, including bat wings. she goes by Black Bat and mostly communicates using sign language

bruce is never lost in time and damian eventually arrives in gotham. damian is given robin and the gifts that accompany it

since duke already has powers, the Guardians don’t give him any, but they protect him as their own

JUST. CRYPTID BATFAMILY <3

#my au #batfam cryptid au #but like my take on it #batfamily #my writing #batfam au #bruce wayne #dick grayson #batman #batman comics #nightwing #jason todd #red hood #tim drake #stephanie brown #cassandra cain #damian wayne #duke thomas #might do some character design sheets for this

[yournameloveskpop]

Circus Freak

Paring: Hyunjin x Reader

Style:circus AU, NSFW, Romeo & Juliet, friendship, romance

Warning: toxic family, smut, forbidden romance

Word count: 21.307

In the vibrant heart of a city that never sleeps, where skyscrapers stretched towards the heavens and the buzz of daily life never ceased, there lay a realm where the extraordinary was commonplace, and the word 'impossible' was simply a hurdle to be leaped over. This realm thrived under the colorful expanse of a circus tent, a place where our tale begins to take shape.

Amidst this whirlwind of activity, Y/N, a young woman whose curiosity knew no bounds and whose spirit rebelled against convention, found herself drawn to the magnetic pull of the circus. Her farther, firm in his beliefs and viewing the circus folk as nothing more than societal outliers, frowned upon her fascination. He saw these performers as mere entertainers, far removed from the respectable circles they aspired to be part of. Yet, Y/N looked beyond societal labels, seeing in the circus a celebration of diversity, a testament to the strength found in difference.

"I just don't see what you find so enthralling about it, Y/N," her father sighed one evening, the topic of the circus surfacing yet again at the dinner table.

"It's not just entertainment, dad. It's art. It's people being true to who they are, despite what the world expects of them. It's...it's freedom," Y/N replied, her eyes alight with passion.

Her words hung in the air, challenging the silence of her normally unyielding parents. It was a battle of wills she had fought time and again, yet this time, something shifted. Perhaps it was the unwavering conviction in Y/N's voice, or maybe the simple weariness of constant denial, but eventually, her farther's stern facade cracked.

"Fine," he conceded with a heavy sigh, her decision laced with reluctance. "You may go to the circus. But," he added, a finger raised in warning, "you will be accompanied by guards at all times."

Though the condition dampened her spirits, Y/N's heart soared with the victory. The thought of finally stepping into the world that had captivated her dreams filled her with a joy she could scarcely contain. As Y/N crossed the threshold into the grand tent, her pulse quickened with the thrill of anticipation.

She made her way to a seat right at the front, eager to lose herself entirely in the spectacle that was about to begin. The air buzzed with an electric charge, a blend of excitement and awe tangible among the gathering crowd as the seats filled to capacity. Then, as the lights began to fade, a hush fell over the audience, the collective breath held in suspense, only to be broken by a burst of applause when the ringmaster, known affectionately as Bang Chan, stepped into the limelight to greet the assembled throng.

"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to a night of wonders," Bang Chan boomed, his voice enveloping the tent in warmth and excitement. "Prepare to be amazed, to laugh, and maybe even to cry as we take you on a journey like no other."

Sitting there, Y/N couldn't help but feel a connection to his words, a sense of belonging that had eluded her elsewhere. The show kicked off with a stunning performance of song and dance, a showcase of the hard work and raw talent of the circus performers.

The lyrics, "Welcome to my home," followed by "Feeling good right now," seemed to speak directly to Y/N, echoing the essence of the circus's inviting spirit. Here, in this space, was a vibrant celebration of diversity and creativity, an open invitation to cast aside one's troubles at the door and immerse oneself in the enchantment of the present moment.

"Doesn't this just make you feel alive?" whispered the person seated next to Y/N, caught up in the magic of the performance.

Y/N turned, offering a smile. "It really does. It's like stepping into another world where anything's possible," she replied, her voice tinged with wonder.

And as the performance unfolded, Y/N felt a deep resonance with the circus's message of unity and the joy of being one's authentic self. As the evening's performances unfolded, each act painted a new stroke of wonder on the canvas of Y/N's imagination. The acrobats twisted and soared through the air with a grace that defied gravity, and the jugglers wove patterns of light and color that dazzled the eyes.

But amidst the array of talents, it was the magic segment that ensnared Y/N's heart. Shrouded in an aura of mystery, the magician, introduced by Bang Chan as Hyunjin, was more than a mere performer; he was a master of illusion and narrative, crafting stories of intrigue and enchantment with his every move.

During a particularly mesmerizing trick, their eyes locked—a moment that seemed to freeze time itself. Y/N felt an unspoken connection, a pull towards the magician that she couldn't rationalize. Hyunjin's gaze was intense, revealing a depth of experiences, his scar a silent narrative of his past struggles, his eyes a window to his soul.

"Seems like the magician has cast a spell on you," the person seated next to Y/N quipped, noticing the intensity of their exchange.

Y/N chuckled nervously, her focus still locked on Hyunjin. "It's like he's weaving magic just for me," she whispered back, enchanted.

Then, as if to prove the shared connection, Hyunjin executed his next trick with a flourish, materializing a bouquet of flowers seemingly from the ether. Striding towards Y/N, he presented them with a confident smirk, his eyes twinkling with a mix of challenge and charm. "For you, mademoiselle," he said, his voice carrying a hint of playfulness that matched his expression.

"Thank you," Y/N responded, accepting the bouquet, her voice a mix of surprise and delight. Their eyes met again, a silent conversation passing between them, a moment of mutual recognition that transcended the physical space they occupied. The guards, ever watchful, shifted uncomfortably at this interaction, yet their presence felt miles away to Y/N, lost as she was in the magic of the moment.

As the night progressed, with each act weaving its own magic, Y/N found her thoughts returning to Hyunjin. There was something about him that transcended his illusions, something that embodied the spirit of the circus itself—resilience, the beauty in embracing one's flaws, and the boldness to live authentically amidst judgment. As the final echoes of applause faded and the crowd began to filter out into the night, Y/N found herself rooted to the spot, her heart and mind abuzz with the electrifying performances and the enigmatic figure of the magician, Hyunjin. The guards, ever vigilant, nudged her gently, their voices a stark reminder of the world outside the circus tent.

"Miss Y/N, it's time we head back. Your parents will be expecting you," one guard mentioned, his tone polite yet firm.

Y/N sighed, a sense of reality piercing the magical bubble she had been in. "I know, I just... wish this night could last forever," she replied, her gaze lingering on the now-dimming stage.

As they escorted her away from the tent, a part of her rebelled against the idea that this magical evening was just a fleeting moment in time. She felt an undeniable pull, a sense that her journey with the circus—and with Hyunjin—was far from over. In the days that followed, that pull became a magnetic force, drawing Y/N back to the circus grounds time and again. Each visit was a chance to immerse herself in the world she had become so enchanted with, and, more specifically, to witness Hyunjin weave his magic. With every performance, every secretive exchange of glances between them, the connection they shared seemed to deepen, blossoming silently yet powerfully in the shared glimmers of recognition and intrigue under the kaleidoscopic circus lights.

"It's like you're part of the act, the way you both look at each other," a fellow audience member whispered to Y/N during one of her visits, having noticed the unspoken communication between her and Hyunjin.

Y/N could only smile, her heart fluttering at the thought. "Maybe in another life," she whispered back, her eyes fixed on Hyunjin, who seemed to perform with an extra spark of intensity whenever their eyes met.

As Hyunjin's act reached its zenith, he sought to introduce a new element that would captivate his audience further. "Ladies and gentlemen," he announced with a flourish, his voice booming yet inviting, "for my next act, I require the assistance of one daring volunteer from among you. Who will join me in creating magic tonight?"

A forest of hands immediately sprang up, a sea of eager faces, predominantly female, each vying for the magician's attention. Amidst the sea of enthusiasm, Y/N, with a mixture of excitement and trepidation, timidly raised her hand as well. Her action, however, did not go unnoticed by the guard seated to her left. With a swift motion, he clasped her wrist, his expression stern. His look was a silent reminder of her parents' expectations and the potential repercussions of her involvement in the circus acts. Y/N's excitement quickly turned to disappointment, her frown deep and evident. This subtle exchange did not escape Hyunjin's keen observation. Making his way through the throng of hands and hopeful faces, he approached Y/N with a purposeful grace. As he stood before her, he bent slightly, bringing himself face to face with her, their eyes locking in a silent conversation.

"Do you wish to be part of this next enchantment?" he inquired softly, his gaze intense yet inviting, cutting through the din of the circus around them.

Y/N, momentarily lost in the depth of his gaze, found her voice, her nod barely perceptible. "Yes, I'd... I'd like that very much," she managed to whisper, her voice a mix of awe and determination.

Hyunjin's smile broadened, a spark of excitement flickering in his eyes. He extended his hand towards her, a gesture of invitation and challenge. "Then come, let us weave magic together," he beckoned, his tone laced with an irresistible charm.

With a moment's hesitation, Y/N reached out, her fingers slipping into his with an electric touch. As he gently pulled her up, she rose to her feet, a surge of adrenaline coursing through her veins. The guard, sensing the futility of resisting this moment and perhaps wary of causing a scene, reluctantly released her wrist, allowing her to step into the spotlight.

As Y/N moved into the circle, the audience's anticipation palpable in the air, Hyunjin addressed her with a conspiratorial whisper, "Fear not, for tonight, you are the key to unlocking wonders yet unseen."

"What must I do?" Y/N asked, her voice steadier now, empowered by Hyunjin's confidence in her.

"Just trust in the magic, follow my lead, and together, we'll astound them all," Hyunjin replied, his eyes twinkling with the promise of the extraordinary.

Turning to face the audience, Hyunjin announced, "With the courage of my esteemed assistant, we shall embark on a journey beyond the bounds of the imaginable." The crowd leaned in, their excitement a tangible force in the air.

Hyunjin then guided Y/N through the intricacies of the trick, their movements synchronized in a dance of illusion and reality. Each gesture, each word from Hyunjin, served to draw Y/N deeper into the world of magic, her initial nervousness replaced by a burgeoning sense of wonder and belonging. The trick unfolded with a series of unexpected twists and turns, each more breathtaking than the last, culminating in a finale that drew gasps and applause from the captivated audience. Y/N, at the heart of the spectacle, felt a profound connection not only to Hyunjin but to the very essence of the circus itself. It was a moment of transformation, of crossing a threshold from spectator to participant in the circus's magical tapestry.

As the applause thundered around them, Hyunjin turned to Y/N, their eyes meeting in a moment of shared triumph. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice barely audible over the roar of the crowd, "for daring to embrace the magic."

Y/N, overwhelmed by the experience and the unexpected journey she had embarked on, could only nod, her heart full. "Thank you, for making me a part of it," she replied, her voice tinged with gratitude and wonder.

After the exhilarating show, the heart of the circus, its main acts—Hyunjin, Jeongin (I.N), Seungmin, Felix, Jisung (Han), Chanbin, Minho (Lee Know), and the ringmaster Bang Chan—drifted through the backstage area towards their communal campsite, a place they called home. Each member of this tight-knit family bore physical reminders of their tumultuous pasts. Bang Chan sported a prosthetic arm, a testament to resilience. Seungmin's face was marked by a burn on the right side, a stark reminder of his history. Jisung wore an eyepatch, concealing the void left by his left eye. Minho moved gracefully on a prosthetic leg, Chanbin bore a scar that ran down his chest, Felix's eyes—one hazel, one dark brown—shone with a unique light, Jeongin's demeanor oscillated between childlike innocence and unsettling intensity, and Hyunjin, with his scarred visage and blind left eye, completed this ensemble of survivors. These were the originals, the founding members of the circus, each one a story of triumph over adversity. Once outcasts and strays who sought refuge in the streets, they now stood as pillars of a vibrant community that thrived on joy, laughter, and the sheer magic of performance. Their circus had grown beyond their wildest dreams, yet their mission remained unchanged: to spread happiness, for in the smiles of their audience, they found their own strength magnified. As they made their way back, the air was filled with the buzz of post-show excitement and the anticipation of a well-deserved rest day ahead. This break from the rigors of performance offered them a precious moment to either hone their crafts or simply unwind, a necessary pause in their otherwise relentless schedule.

Chanbin, ever the spirited member of the group, approached Hyunjin with a playful energy, slapping him on the back in a gesture of camaraderie. "Hyunjin, that was a stellar act tonight! You really outdid yourself with that new trick," he exclaimed, his voice echoing the sentiment of admiration felt by all.

Hyunjin, still riding the high of the performance, turned to Chanbin with a smile. "Thanks, Chanbin. It felt different tonight, more... electric. I think we reached new heights together," he replied, his enthusiasm infectious.

Jisung, always observant, sidled up to the duo, his curiosity piqued by the connection he had noticed between Hyunjin and a particular audience member. "Speaking of tonight's act," Jisung began, his tone teasing yet pointed, "that girl you chose as your assistant—she's become quite the regular, hasn't she? Seems particularly captivated by your performances."

Hyunjin's expression softened at the mention of Y/N, a mix of intrigue and fondness playing across his features. "Yeah, she has been coming to a lot of shows lately. There's something about her... It's like she sees right through the illusion to the heart of the magic," he mused, his thoughts drifting to the moments they had shared on stage.

The conversation caught the interest of the others, who gathered around, eager to chime in with their observations and jests. Felix, with his ever-present smile, nudged Hyunjin gently. "Sounds like someone's got a fan—or maybe something a bit more?" he teased, winking.

Hyunjin chuckled, brushing off the implication while not entirely dismissing it. "Let's just say, our paths seem uniquely intertwined," he conceded, his gaze distant, as if contemplating the depth of that connection.

BangChan, the de facto leader and elder brother figure, clapped his hands together, drawing the group's attention. "Alright, team, let's not get ahead of ourselves. We've got a day off tomorrow, and I say we make the most of it. Some rest, some practice, and maybe even a little bit of fun. We've earned it," he declared, his voice imbued with a warmth that resonated with each member.

Nods and murmurs of agreement rippled through the group, each member already envisioning how they would spend their well-deserved break. The camaraderie and mutual respect among them were palpable, a bond forged through shared experiences, both triumphant and tragic. As they dispersed, heading towards the showers and then to their respective quarters, the night was alive with the promise of rest, reflection, and rejuvenation. For in the world of the circus, every day brought new challenges, new audiences to enchant, and new stories to weave into the rich tapestry of their collective journey.

Hyunjin lingered for a moment longer, his mind still on Y/N, her presence at the shows, and the undeniable spark that seemed to ignite between them with each performance. It was a curious thing, this feeling, something he has never felt before in his life, and for some reason it scared him. Y/N's steps echoed in the quiet night, her mind replaying the melodies of Lee Know's song, a sweet remnant of her recent adventure. As she approached her home, the shadows seemed to dance, blending the magical world of the circus with the stark reality of her impending reception. The guards, ever-present yet unobtrusive, melted away as she reached her door, signaling her return to a different kind of performance. Crossing he threshold, she was immediately enveloped by a tension so thick it almost pushed her back out. Her parents stood like guardians of a different realm, their faces etched with worry and disapproval.

"Good evening," Y/N ventured, her voice a soft attempt to bridge the gap widening between them.

Her father's eyes met hers, a storm brewing in their depths. Without a word, he turned away, his silence louder than any reprimand.

Her mother sighed, a delicate frown marring her features. "We were worried, Y/N. This... obsession with the circus. It's not healthy."

Y/N's heart sank, but she fought to keep her voice steady. "But, Mom, the circus is magical. It's not just an obsession; it's a passion. You should have seen what happened tonight!"

Her father, unable to contain his disapproval, finally spoke. "What happened tonight? What new spectacle has caught your fancy now?"

"It's not just spectacle," Y/N replied, her voice gaining strength. "It's about the stories, the art, the connection. Tonight, I wasn't just watching; I was a part of something bigger. Isn't that what life is about? Finding your place in the world?"

Her mother exchanged a glance with her father, her eyes reflecting a war between support and concern. "Being part of something bigger doesn't mean losing yourself, Y/N. We just want you to be safe, to think about your future."

"But I am thinking about my future," Y/N insisted. "A future where I'm free to love what I love, to be who I want to be. The circus shows me that world. Can't you see?" In the midst of their heated debate, Y/N tried to convey her exhilaration, "But you don't see! The circus, it's...it's magical. And Hyunjin, he—"

Her father cut her off, his voice sharp and cold. "Magical? You call fraternizing with those...those performers magical? It's reckless, Y/N. You're throwing away everything we've worked for, for what? A moment's thrill?"

"Reckless? No, Dad, it's about being alive, being part of something truly extraordinary. Hyunjin and the others, they're not just performers; they're artists, they're—"

Her father's temper flared, "Artists? They're outcasts! And now you, assisting on stage? It's disgraceful! You're a part of this family, not some...some circus act!"

Y/N's resolve hardened against her father's scorn. "Disgraceful? Because they dare to be different? They've shown me what real courage is, what it means to embrace who you are. Why can't you respect that?"

Her mother, trying to keep the peace, interjected weakly, "Y/N, please understand. Your father is just concerned about—"

"Concerned?" Y/N's voice cracked with emotion. "Or ashamed? Ashamed that I might find my place among people he deems unworthy?"

Her father stood, imposing and unyielding. "Ashamed? Yes, ashamed that my daughter is blinded by this...this fantasy. You think they're your friends? They're using you, making a fool out of you and, by extension, us."

Y/N, her voice trembling with both anger and passion, shot back, "They've accepted me for who I am, something I've never felt here, in this house of judgment. Hyunjin, he sees me, not as a fool, but as someone capable of being part of their world, their magic."

"Enough!" Her father's voice thundered, silencing the room. "Your defiance only proves your immaturity. You will cease this nonsense. No more circus. That's final. If you continue to defy us, the consequences will be severe."

Y/N, her patience shattered and her voice cold with disdain, turned at the foot of the stairs. "Keep your judgments and your so-called wisdom to yourselves. I'd rather be a 'disgrace' out there living my truth than spend another moment suffocating under your narrow-minded pretense of a life."

Without waiting for a retort, she stormed up the stairs, her steps a defiant drumbeat against their traditional values. After Y/N's scathing words cut through the tension, she spun on her heel, the force of her departure leaving a palpable void. She didn't look back as she ascended the stairs, each step echoing her resolve and the rift it had caused. In the immediate aftermath, her mother, without a moment's hesitation, sprang into action. Ignoring the stifling silence and the stern gaze of her husband, she hurried after Y/N. Her heart pounded with a mixture of fear, determination, and a desperate need to mend what had just been broken.

"Y/N!" she called out, her voice a blend of worry and urgency as she climbed the stairs. She reached Y/N's door just as it was about to close, pushing it gently open to bridge the physical and emotional distance between them. "Please, can we talk? Just you and me."

Y/N, standing in the middle of her sanctuary, her emotions a whirlwind, faced her mother. The anger still simmered, but the presence of her mother, showing concern and a willingness to listen, tempered it slightly.

"Why?" Y/N's voice was a mix of defiance and vulnerability. "So you can tell me again how wrong I am? How I should just give up on everything I love?"

Her mother stepped inside, closing the door behind her, a symbolic gesture to shut out the world and its judgments. "No, not to tell you you're wrong. I... I came to say I'm sorry. Sorry that we've made you feel this way, that we haven't tried to understand. Tell me about the circus, about why it means so much to you. Help me see, Y/N."

This was the first time Y/N felt her mother truly reaching out, not as an enforcer of her father's rules, but as a parent trying to connect with her child's passion.

"It's where I feel like I belong, Mom," Y/N began, her voice softening. "It's not just about the performances. It's about the people, the freedom, the acceptance. They've shown me that it's okay to be different, that it's okay to dream big."

Her mother nodded, taking a tentative step closer. "I see. I've never looked at it that way. Maybe... maybe we've been too quick to judge. Tell me more, please. I want to understand."

As Y/N spoke, the walls between them began to crumble, not completely, but enough to let the light of understanding shine through. For the first time in a long time, Y/N felt heard, and her mother, though still worried, began to grasp the depth of her daughter's dreams.

The next day Hyunjin woke up feeling awake and refreshed. The sounds of the circus crew were faint outside his tent, going about their day seeing as they all had it off. He stretched, his body filled with an energy that only a good night's sleep could provide. The circus was quiet, a rare day off for everyone, and the calm was as refreshing as the sleep had been. He swapped his usual stage attire for something more casual and made his way out, eager for the day ahead.

As he stepped out, Bang Chan, the ring leader, and Chanbin, the lion tamer, were there to greet him with warm smiles. "Morning, Hyunjin! Sleep well?" Bang Chan asked, his voice carrying the easy authority of someone born to lead.

"Like a log," Hyunjin responded, grinning. "Ready to tackle the day off?"

Chanbin chuckled, "As ready as one can be. Let's grab some breakfast. I'm starving."

The trio walked towards the communal tent, where the rest of the crew was gathering for the morning meal. The smell of breakfast filled the air, a comforting blend of coffee, eggs, and fresh bread.

Inside, Jisung and Jeongin were already at a table, deep in conversation, while Felix, Seungmin, and Minho were in line for food. Felix spotted them joining the queue and flashed his signature bright smile. "Morning, guys! How did everyone sleep?"

"Great, thanks," Hyunjin said, his mind drifting momentarily to the volunteer from last night's show. "Actually, I kept thinking about the girl who helped with the magic act. She seemed so captivated by everything."

"Oh, her!" Felix's eyes lit up with recognition. "She's been here a few times, hasn't she? Always looks like she's seeing magic for the first time."

Chanbin, overhearing the conversation, added, "Did you notice the bodyguards trying to stop her from joining you on stage, Hyunjin? Wonder why she needs two of them."

Bang Chan leaned in, curiosity piqued. "Bodyguards, you say? That's unusual for a circus audience. Maybe she's someone important, or perhaps there's more to her story."

Hyunjin nodded, thoughtful. "Yeah, there's something about her. Last night felt... different. Like there was a real connection, not just the usual volunteer interaction."

The group pondered this as they moved along the line, filling their plates. The mystery of the girl and her evident fascination with the circus sparked a lively debate among them, each offering theories and observations.

"Perhaps she's seeking escape, something we all can relate to," Seungmin suggested, joining the conversation. "The circus is another world, after all."

"True," Minho agreed. "We've all found refuge under this big top. Maybe she's just like us, drawn to the magic, the freedom."

They settled down to eat, the conversation shifted to plans for the day off, but Hyunjin's thoughts remained on the girl. There was a story there, he was sure, and he found himself eager to discover it. Y/N's heart was set on a day of freedom, a brief respite from the watchful eyes that constantly hovered over her life. The idea of spending a day out with Maya, her closest friend, without the omnipresent shadow of her bodyguards felt like a breath of fresh air. With a plan in mind and a hopeful heart, she tiptoed through the lavish corridors of her home, each step calculated to avoid detection.

Unfortunately, her father, ever vigilant, caught a glimpse of her attempting to slip away. His voice, firm and unyielding, halted her in her tracks. "Y/N, where do you think you're going?"

Caught off guard, Y/N turned, offering a smile that she hoped would disarm. "Just out with Maya, Dad. Nothing major."

Her father, however, was not swayed. "You know the rules, Y/N. If you're going out, you're taking a bodyguard. I won't have you wandering the streets unprotected."

Y/N's heart sank. "But Dad, can't I just—"

"No buts," he interjected. "It's not open for discussion. You can have your freedom, but safety comes first."

Resigned, Y/N nodded, unable to argue further without risking further confinement. As she met Maya outside, her friend's immediate eye roll at the sight of the trailing bodyguard said it all.

"I'm so sorry, Maya. Dad saw me sneaking out," Y/N explained, her frustration evident.

Maya, ever the supportive friend, shrugged it off with a smile. "It's no big deal. Let's not let it ruin our day. We've got shopping to do!"

Meanwhile, Hyunjin, craving a similar escape, ventured into the city with a different purpose. He was on a mission to gather pieces for a new costume, something to invigorate his next performance. With a cap pulled low and a mask concealing half his face, he navigated the bustling streets incognito. The fame of the circus and its founding members made anonymity a precious commodity, and his scar, a reminder of his unique journey, was something he preferred to keep hidden from the prying eyes of the public. Despite the circus's celebration of diversity, his own insecurities whispered too loudly on days like this. Y/N and Maya, immersed in their day out, found themselves weaving stories and sharing laughter, the bodyguard momentarily forgotten in the joy of their reunion. It was Maya who, with a mischievous glint in her eye, suggested a daring escape.

"Ready to lose your shadow?" Maya whispered conspiratorially.

Y/N, caught up in the thrill, nodded eagerly. "What's the plan?"

"Follow me and keep up," Maya said, pulling her into the throng of a crowded marketplace.

With practiced ease, they darted and dodged through the mass of people, their laughter mingling with the hum of the city. Just when they thought they had outmaneuvered the guard, they ducked into a shop, hiding among the racks of clothes. Peering out, they watched him pass by, oblivious to their trickery. Seizing their moment of freedom, they dashed in the opposite direction, only for Y/N to collide with a stranger. Stumbling back, she found herself looking up into the partially concealed face of a man who, despite the mask and cap, radiated a familiar warmth.

"Sorry, I didn't see you there," Y/N apologized, her heart skipping a beat as she took in the stranger's appearance. There was something about him, a presence that felt oddly comforting yet exhilarating.

"No harm done," the stranger replied, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. "But you should be more careful. The streets can be unpredictable."

Y/N, still caught in the stranger's gaze, nodded, unaware that the collision was not just with any passerby but with Hyunjin himself, out on his own quest for freedom and inspiration.

As Maya joined Y/N's side, a puzzled look crossed her face. "Do we know you?" she asked, eyeing the stranger curiously.

Hyunjin, realizing the potential for recognition, weighed his options. To reveal himself could mean drawing attention they all sought to avoid, yet the intrigue in their eyes was hard to dismiss.

"Let's just say I'm a fan of unexpected meetings," Hyunjin said, a mysterious smile playing on his lips. "Perhaps the city has its way of bringing people together."

I apologize for not meeting your expectations earlier. Let's rewrite the part according to your detailed description and requirements.

Hyunjin, stepping away from the unexpected encounter, felt a whirlwind of emotions. The brief moment with Y/N, the girl who had become a staple in the audience of his performances, left him both thrilled and unnerved. Her presence had always been a highlight of his act, their eyes locking in a silent communication amidst the magic he conjured. Now, having bumped into her, the familiarity of those feelings surged with a new intensity, mingling with the fear of the unknown emotions she stirred within him. He remembered her vividly, each night she attended, watching with an untainted sense of wonder that fueled his passion on stage. As he disappeared into a shop, hoping to find pieces that would add to his mesmerizing performances, his face flushed with a heat that had little to do with the summer air. Underneath his mask, his cheeks burned with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.

Back at the cafe, Y/N sat across from Maya, her mind racing. "It was Hyunjin, wasn't it?" Maya asked, breaking the silence that had fallen between them.

"Yes," Y/N whispered, almost to herself. "I recognized him... it's hard not to. But I didn't want to say anything right there."

Maya, sipping her coffee, nearly choked on her drink. "I can't believe you've been going to the circus," she exclaimed, her voice a mix of shock and admiration. "And your parents actually let you?"

Y/N laughed softly, the sound tinged with a hint of defiance. "It took a lot of convincing, and the condition was the bodyguards. But it was worth it, every single time."

Maya shook her head, her initial surprise giving way to envy. "I'm jealous, you know. Those tickets aren't cheap."

Y/N acknowledged the privilege that allowed her these escapes with a shy smile. "I know, but the circus is more than just a show. It's a world of its own, where magic feels real, and for a few hours, I can be part of that magic."

Their conversation flowed effortlessly, with Y/N sharing stories of the circus's enchantment and the performers who had captivated her. Maya listened intently, drawn into the vivid picture Y/N painted with her words.

"Hey, you should come with me next time," Y/N suggested, her eyes sparkling with the idea. "I'll get tickets for us. It's an experience you won't forget."

Maya's eyes widened with excitement. "Really? I'd love to. But are you sure? Those tickets..."

"Don't worry about it," Y/N interrupted, her tone full of conviction. "It's on me. I want you to see it, to feel what I feel when I'm there."

As they planned their next adventure, Y/N felt a renewed sense of purpose. Sharing her passion for the circus with Maya not only deepened their friendship but also reinforced her own love for the magical world she had discovered. Meanwhile, Hyunjin, hidden behind the racks of a quaint shop, allowed himself to dream bigger for his next act, inspired by the brief encounter with Y/N. The chance meeting reminded him of the impact his performances had on the audience, fueling his desire to create something even more spectacular. He pondered over fabrics and designs, each choice now infused with the possibility of seeing Y/N in the crowd again, her eyes filled with the same wonder that had first drawn him to her.

As Y/N and Maya, bubbling with anticipation, made their way through the bustling streets back to Y/N's opulent home, their recent escape from the watchful eyes of the bodyguard became a cherished memory, a shared adventure that bonded them even closer. After a brief stop at Maya's to collect her overnight essentials, they prepared for an evening that promised to be unforgettable. Y/N, seated at her desk, navigated the circus's website with practiced ease. She selected front-row tickets, sparing no expense for the perfect view, and, with a resigned sigh, added tickets for the guards. Their presence was a necessary concession to her father's strict rules, a shadow over her otherwise unbridled enthusiasm. The evening of the circus arrived with a flurry of excitement. Y/N and Maya dressed with care, choosing outfits that mirrored the magic they were about to witness. As they stepped outside, the guards, ever present, nodded in acknowledgment, a silent promise of protection.

The drive to the circus was filled with chatter, Maya's excitement palpable as she peppered Y/N with questions. "What's your favorite act?" "How does it feel to be so close to the magic?" Y/N answered each query with a warmth in her heart, thrilled to share this part of her world with her friend.

Upon arrival, the circus grounds buzzed with energy, the air electric with anticipation. As they approached the entrance, Bang Chan, the charismatic ringmaster, greeted guests with a wide, welcoming smile. His eyes lit up in recognition at the sight of Y/N.

"Back again, I see?" he remarked, his voice tinged with amusement.

Y/N's smile broadened, her excitement uncontainable. "Wouldn't miss it for the world," she replied, her eyes sparkling with joy.

Bang Chan, intrigued by her frequent visits, leaned in slightly. "Might I have the pleasure of knowing your name?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.

"Y/N," she responded, a flush of pride coloring her cheeks at the personal interest from the ringmaster himself.

"Y/N," he repeated, nodding with a genuine smile. "Well, you're in for a treat tonight. We've expanded the show—more acts, more magic. It's going to be a night to remember."

Maya, standing beside Y/N, looked on in awe, the reality of the circus's allure unfolding before her. "This is amazing, Y/N. I can't believe I'm here," she whispered, her voice filled with wonder.

As they handed their tickets to Bang Chan, he offered them a conspiratorial wink. "Enjoy the show, and keep an eye out for the surprises we have in store."

Stepping into the circus tent, the transformation was immediate. The outside world, with all its rules and restrictions, faded away, leaving only the promise of enchantment. The front-row seats offered an unobstructed view of the ring, where performers were beginning to gather, their costumes a kaleidoscope of color and fantasy.

As the lights dimmed, the crowd hushed, the anticipation reaching its peak. Bang Chan's voice, rich and inviting, filled the space. "Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to a night where the impossible becomes possible, where dreams take flight, and magic reigns supreme. Prepare to be amazed!"

Y/N glanced at Maya, her heart swelling at her friend's captivated expression. This was the magic she had longed to share, a world where wonders never ceased, and for a few precious hours, anything was possible.

The show unfolded with breathtaking spectacle, each act surpassing the last in thrill and wonder. Hyunjin's magic act was a highlight, his new costume catching the light in a mesmerizing dance. Y/N's gaze found his, a silent acknowledgment passing between them, a connection that seemed to transcend the boundaries of the circus ring. As the final act drew to a close, the audience erupted into applause, a standing ovation for the performers who had made the impossible real. Y/N and Maya joined in, their applause heartfelt, their spirits lifted by the magic they had witnessed.

After the show, as the crowd began to disperse, Y/N felt a gentle tug on her arm. Maya, her eyes alight with excitement, leaned in. "Y/N, this was incredible. Thank you for bringing me. I've never felt so alive!"

Y/N smiled, her own heart full. "I'm glad you loved it. The circus has a way of doing that—making you feel alive."

Y/N and Maya, still riding the high of the circus's magic, made their way out of the large tent, their senses alight with the vibrant energy of the evening. As they stepped into the cool night air, they noticed a crowd gathering nearby, curiosity drawing them closer.

"What's going on?" Maya asked, craning her neck to see over the heads in front of them.

Y/N, equally intrigued, tiptoed slightly. "Looks like they're handing out something. Let's check it out."

As they approached, they realized it was Felix and Jeongin from the circus, their vibrant personalities impossible to miss. Jeongin, with a childlike enthusiasm, bounced on the balls of his feet, his laughter infectious as he handed out flyers.

"Hey, look! It's Felix and Jeongin," Maya pointed out, her voice tinged with excitement.

Y/N smiled, her interest piqued. "Let's go get a flyer."

They made their way through the crowd, reaching the front where Felix and Jeongin stood. Jeongin's smile widened upon seeing them approach, "Hello there! Did you enjoy the show?" he asked, his voice bubbling with genuine interest.

Felix, standing beside him, offered his own warm greeting. "Yeah, did you like it? It's always great to see new faces and regulars alike," he said, his dual-colored eyes twinkling under the lights.

Maya, eager to respond, nodded vigorously. "It was amazing, my first time here! And Y/N's told me so much about it."

Y/N, feeling a connection to the circus stronger than ever, chimed in. "Yes, I loved it, as always. I heard you're doing an open day? Could we get some flyers? We'd love to come."

Felix glanced at the dwindling stack of flyers in his hand, then back at Y/N and Maya. "Sure, how many would you need?"

"Four, please. One for me, one for Maya, and two for our... companions," Y/N said, gesturing subtly towards the guards who stood a respectful distance away.

Felix's eyes followed her gesture, a flicker of curiosity in his gaze as he looked back at her. Jeongin, ever the straightforward one, didn't hesitate to voice his thoughts. "Why do you have guards? If you don't mind me asking."

Y/N sighed, a shadow crossing her features for a moment. "My dad... he's just very protective. Wants to make sure I'm safe, that's all."

Jeongin and Felix exchanged a look, the atmosphere tinged with a newfound understanding. "That must be tough, having to be followed around like that," Felix said, his voice soft with empathy.

"Yeah, it has its moments," Y/N admitted, the brief sadness in her eyes speaking volumes. "But it's worth it for experiences like these. The circus... it's like a different world, one where I feel free, even if just for a little while."

Jeongin, brightening at her words, handed over the flyers with a grin. "Well, we're glad you feel that way. This open day is going to be something special. You'll get to see behind the scenes, meet more of us, and really get a feel for what makes this place so magical."

"Thank you," Maya said, taking her flyer with a smile. "We're really looking forward to it."

As they turned to leave, Felix called out, "Hey, we'll see you there, then! And don't worry, it'll be a day where you can forget about those guards for a bit and just enjoy."

Y/N and Maya walked away, flyers in hand, their spirits lifted by the promise of another day filled with the circus's enchantment. The open day offered a glimpse into a world Y/N had only begun to explore, a chance to deepen her connection with the place that had captured her heart.

"Imagine getting to go behind the scenes," Maya mused, her voice alive with anticipation. "What do you think we'll see?"

Y/N's thoughts wandered to the performers they'd met, the acts they'd witnessed, and the magic that permeated the very air of the circus. "I think we'll see dreams being built," she said, a smile playing on her lips. "And maybe, just maybe, we'll learn a little bit about what it takes to make magic real."

On the eagerly awaited open day, Y/N and Maya held their leaflets tightly, their excitement barely contained as they approached the entrance of the circus. The vibrant atmosphere was palpable, with performers from various acts mingling with the guests, showcasing snippets of their talents.

Bang Chan, the esteemed ringmaster, greeted them at the entrance. His recognition of Y/N was immediate, and his welcoming smile put them at ease. "Ah, our regular visitor and her friend! Welcome to the open day," he said, extending his prosthetic hand to collect their leaflets. The guards, ever present, handed theirs over as well, their stoic expressions in stark contrast to the festive environment.

Y/N, her hands briefly entwined in a gesture of gratitude, thanked Bang Chan. "We're really excited to be here. Thank you for having us."

With a nod, Bang Chan ushered them through the gates, where the circus opened up into a world of wonder. Their first encounter was with Lee Know, the singer and a key performer, who was adjusting his prosthetic leg. Noticing their approach, he quickly finished and stood, greeting them with an apologetic smile. "Sorry about that, didn't notice you there. Ready for a little tour?"

As they ventured deeper into the circus, Lee Know introduced them to the vibrant cast of characters that made up their unique family. First on the tour was Chanbin, the lion tamer, who was in the midst of a feeding session with a baby cub, its mother lying calmly by his side.

"Isn't she beautiful?" Chanbin said, gesturing towards the lioness. "Don't worry, they're quite used to people. The little one's a handful, though."

Next, they met Felix and Jeongin, the clowns, who were in the middle of their act. Jeongin, with his boundless energy, attempted a magic trick that ended in a comical display of twigs and a few flower petals instead of the intended bouquet. His laughter, infectious and bright, filled the air as he presented his accidental creation to Y/N. "A little bit of nature for you," he joked, his eyes twinkling with mirth.

Felix, meanwhile, juggled skillfully while balancing on a unicycle, his concentration unbroken by the giggles and applause from the onlookers. "Always practice, never a dull moment!" he called out, catching his props with a flourish.

Wandering the park area on stilts was Seungmin, the acrobat, alongside Jisung. Their towering presence drew a crowd as they moved gracefully among the guests, engaging in light conversation and sharing laughs. "It's all about balance," Seungmin explained, his voice carrying down from his elevated position. "And a bit of courage, I suppose."

The highlight of their tour was the visit to Hyunjin, who had attracted a significant crowd with his enchanting magic. Lee Know, seeing the interest in Y/N and Maya's eyes, led them to the front. "Let's get a better view," he whispered, guiding them closer.

Hyunjin's performance was mesmerizing, his subtle tricks weaving a spell over the audience. Y/N and Maya, now front and center, watched in awe as he manipulated light and shadow, his movements fluid and precise.

After the demonstration, Hyunjin addressed the crowd, his gaze lingering on Y/N and Maya. "Thank you for joining us today. Magic isn't just about the tricks; it's about the connection we share in these moments."

As the tour concluded, Y/N and Maya thanked Lee Know for the incredible experience. "This was beyond anything we could've imagined," Y/N said, her voice full of emotion. "Thank you for showing us the heart of the circus."

Maya nodded in agreement. "It's been an eye-opening day. The talent, the passion... it's all so inspiring."

As Y/N and Maya lingered at the circus, their day was filled with the mesmerizing performances of the original cast and the other talented performers. Their attention was caught by Jeongin, who was taking a well-deserved break. Sensing their gaze, he waved them over with a friendly smile.

"Hey there!" Jeongin greeted as they approached, his eyes landing on Y/N. "I've noticed you around quite a bit. What brings you back so often?" he inquired, curiosity lighting up his face.

Y/N, feeling a bit on the spot but warmed by his interest, replied, "It's the freedom here, the way everyone is so open and expressive. It's truly inspiring."

Jeongin's smile grew at her words, his eyes sparkling with gratitude. "That's really kind of you to say. Thank you! It means a lot to us that our message resonates with you."

Maya, not one to shy away from deeper conversations, chimed in, "We've also noticed the scars that each of the main eight performers carries. It seems like you all have been through quite a lot."

For a moment, Jeongin's usual jovial demeanor faded, replaced by a more reflective expression. "Yes," he admitted, his smile tinged with sadness. "We've all had our share of struggles. But we found each other when we were just kids, on the streets. Bang Chan brought us together, made us a family. We're not alone anymore; we're brothers."

Intrigued by their origin story, Maya asked, "How did the idea of starting a circus come about? It's remarkable how you've turned your pasts into something so beautiful and uplifting."

It was at this point that Hyunjin joined the conversation, his arrival unnoticed until he spoke. "The circus was Bang Chan's dream," he explained, his gaze briefly meeting Maya's before settling on Y/N, causing an unmistakable flutter in her heart. "He saw it as a way for us to channel our experiences into something positive, to create a place where not only could we be free but also spread joy and wonder."

Y/N, moved by their stories, cast a sidelong glance at the guards her father insisted accompany her. It was a silent reminder of the constraints she lived under, a stark contrast to the freedom she yearned for.

Hyunjin and Jeongin noticed the direction of her gaze, their expressions shifting as they took in the sight of the two guards standing a short distance away. "It seems you're not entirely free yourself," Hyunjin observed, his tone gentle yet filled with understanding.

Y/N sighed, a mix of frustration and resignation in her voice. "My dad is... protective. He means well, but sometimes it feels like I'm more of a prisoner than a daughter."

Jeongin, ever the optimist, tried to lighten the mood. "Well, at least you get to escape to our little world of magic from time to time, right?"

Hyunjin nodded, adding, "And who knows? Maybe one day, you'll find a way to bridge your world with ours. Freedom comes in many forms, and sometimes, it's about finding the right moment to seize it."

Their conversation deepened as they discussed the themes of freedom and resilience that ran through the circus's ethos. Y/N and Maya listened intently as Jeongin and Hyunjin shared more about their lives, the formation of the circus, and the bonds that held them together.

As the open day drew to a close, Y/N and Maya knew they were leaving with much more than they had come for. Not only had they witnessed the spectacle of the circus, but they had also gained insights into the lives of those who made it possible. The stories of hardship and triumph, of finding family in the most unlikely places, resonated deeply with them.

Before parting ways, Hyunjin offered one last piece of advice. "Keep seeking freedom, Y/N. It's out there, and sometimes, it finds you when you least expect it."

With heartfelt thanks, Y/N and Maya bid farewell to Jeongin and Hyunjin, their hearts full of new dreams and aspirations. Hyunjin and Jeongin stood side by side, their eyes following Y/N and Maya as they navigated through the departing crowd. There was a reflective silence between the two performers, a rare moment of introspection in the aftermath of their heartfelt conversation.

Jeongin, ever observant, caught Hyunjin's lingering gaze on Y/N. A mischievous grin spread across his face, breaking the solemn mood. "You seem quite taken with our regular visitor," he teased, nudging Hyunjin playfully.

Hyunjin, caught off guard, stumbled over his words momentarily before regaining his composure. "It's not like that. It's just... refreshing to meet someone who sees beyond the spectacle, who understands the heart of what we do," he defended, though his cheeks betrayed him with a hint of color.

Jeongin's laughter filled the air, light and carefree. "Oh, I get it. She sees the magic behind the magic. That's special, isn't it?"

Hyunjin nodded, his gaze still fixed on the distance Y/N and Maya had disappeared into. "Yeah, it is. Most people come for the thrills, the laughs, and the awe. But Y/N and Maya, they looked deeper. They saw us."

The two performers turned back to face the now-emptying circus grounds, the energy of the open day lingering like a warm afterglow. "It's strange, isn't it?" Jeongin mused. "We started this circus to hide in plain sight, to use our performances as a shield. And now, we find ourselves hoping to be truly seen."

Hyunjin sighed, a thoughtful expression crossing his features. "Maybe it's time we let the world in a little more. Y/N reminded us that our stories, as dark as they may be, have the power to connect, to inspire... maybe even to heal."

Jeongin's eyes twinkled with a newfound determination. "Let's do it. Let's weave more of our truth into the tapestry of our performances. Who knows how many more Y/Ns and her friend are out there, looking for a piece of magic they can relate to?"

The decision settled between them like a silent pact, an agreement to open up their world a little wider, to share not just the spectacle of the circus but the soul behind it.

As they began to make their way back to the performers' quarters, Jeongin's voice echoed back to Hyunjin. "So, when are you going to invite Y/N back for a private tour? I'm sure she'd love to learn even more about the magic we create."

Hyunjin laughed, shaking his head at Jeongin's teasing. "We'll see. For now, let's focus on our next show. We have stories to tell, and I want them to be unforgettable."

The conversation faded into the night as the two performers disappeared behind the curtain, their spirits lifted by the promise of new beginnings. The open day had brought unexpected revelations and connections, bridging worlds that once seemed so distant. For Hyunjin and Jeongin, it was a reminder that behind every act, every trick, and every performance, there was a human story waiting to be told, and perhaps, waiting to be understood.

.

As Y/N and Maya stepped through the front door of Y/N's home, the familiar sound of raised voices greeted them. The living room was a battleground of words, with Y/N's mother and father locked in yet another argument about Y/N's future. Their voices clashed, each trying to drown out the other with their own version of reason, but neither willing to concede.

The lightness in Y/N's heart from the day's adventure quickly dimmed, the joyous echoes of the circus fading into the background. Maya, sensing her friend's discomfort, gave her sleeve a gentle tug, signaling a silent retreat to the sanctuary of Y/N's bedroom.

Y/N hesitated, the argument in the living room pulling at her attention. Her mother's voice, filled with passion, broke through, advocating for Y/N to have more freedom. "She needs to explore, to live! You can't keep her under lock and key forever," her mother argued, her frustration palpable.

Her father's rebuttal was immediate, his tone laced with the conviction of his overprotectiveness. "She has all the freedom she needs! The guards are for her safety, nothing more."

Y/N's heart ached at the words. To her father, freedom was a concept bounded by the presence of guards, a shadowed existence that felt more like a gilded cage than true liberty.

"Having someone watch over me every moment isn't freedom, Dad," Y/N whispered to herself, the words barely audible even in the quiet of the hallway.

Maya's gentle pull on her arm brought her back to the moment. With a resigned sigh, Y/N allowed her friend to lead her away from the heated exchange, up the stairs to the relative peace of her bedroom.

Once inside, Maya closed the door softly behind them, the muffled sounds of the argument below fading into a distant rumble.

She turned to Y/N, her expression a mix of concern and support. "I'm sorry, Y/N. It must be tough, feeling caught in the middle like this."

Y/N sank onto her bed, the events of the day colliding with the reality of her home life. "It's exhausting," she admitted. "I just wish they could see eye to eye, for once. My mom understands... She knows how much I crave real freedom, the kind we felt today at the circus."

Maya sat beside her, offering a comforting presence. "Your mom's right, you know. You deserve to explore, to find your own path. But maybe... maybe there's a way to help your dad see that too."

Y/N looked at Maya, hope flickering in her eyes. "How? He's so set in his ways. I've tried talking to him, but it always ends up in an argument."

"Maybe it's not about talking to him... not directly, at least," Maya mused. "What if we showed him? What if he could see firsthand what freedom means to you, how it changes you for the better?"

Y/N considered Maya's words, a plan slowly taking shape in her mind. "You mean like bringing him to the circus? Letting him see the magic, the joy it brings?"

"Exactly," Maya said, her voice growing excited. "He needs to understand that freedom isn't just about physical safety. It's about feeling alive, about connecting with something larger than yourself. And what better place to experience that than the circus?"

The idea was daring, perhaps even a little daunting, but Y/N felt a spark of determination ignite within her. "It's worth a try," she agreed, her mind racing with possibilities. "But we'll need to be careful, plan it just right."

The rest of the evening was spent in whispered conversations, plotting and planning how to bridge the gap between Y/N's worlds. They discussed every detail, from how to approach her mother with the idea to selecting the perfect circus performance that might captivate her father's heart. As night deepened, Y/N and Maya's plans grew more concrete, their strategy a blend of hope and daring. The challenge ahead was formidable, but for the first time in a long while, Y/N felt a flicker of optimism. The morning air was crisp and filled with the anticipation of freedom as Y/N and Maya readied themselves for a day out, unencumbered by the watchful eyes of Y/N's usual companions—the guards. As they were about to step through the door, Y/N's mother approached, her presence commanding the room.

"Girls, wait a moment," she called out, her voice carrying a mix of authority and excitement. The guard, already positioned by the door in his usual stance of vigilance, turned towards her, a questioning look in his eyes.

Y/N and Maya paused, an unspoken question hanging between them. Y/N's mother addressed the guard directly, her tone leaving no room for argument. "I'll be needing you today for something else. The girls will be fine on their own."

The guard, clearly caught off guard by the sudden change in plans, glanced between Y/N, Maya, and her mother, his training clashing with the direct order from a family member. "But sir," he started, referring to Y/N's father's previous instructions, "he was quite clear about—"

"Things have changed for today," Y/N's mother interjected firmly, cutting off any objections. "I require your assistance elsewhere. Please, trust me on this."

With a hesitant nod, the guard acquiesced, the confusion evident on his face but the respect for her authority overriding his concerns. He left, casting one last unsure look at Y/N and Maya before disappearing down the hall.

Y/N stood there, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within her. "Mom, what just happened? How did you...?" she stammered, her voice a cocktail of shock and disbelief.

Her mother turned to her, a smile playing at the corners of her mouth, a spark of rebellion in her eyes. "After last night's discussion, it became clear to me that something needed to change. Your father and I had quite the talk after you went to bed."

Maya, witnessing the exchange, nudged Y/N with a grin. "Looks like you're officially off the leash, huh?"

Y/N's mother continued, "Your father isn't thrilled, but we've agreed that you'll have a month to prove you can handle yourself without constant supervision. It's your chance to show him you're more than capable of managing your own safety."

Y/N, overwhelmed by the sudden shift in her reality, hugged her mother tightly. "Thank you, Mom. I won't let you down, I promise."

Her mother hugged her back, then stepped away, her gaze serious yet supportive. "I know you won't, darling. Just remember, with freedom comes responsibility. Make wise choices."

As they stepped out into the morning light, the absence of the guards felt surreal to Y/N. The world seemed wider, brighter, filled with possibilities that were previously clouded by the shadows of surveillance.

"Can you believe this, Maya?" Y/N asked, her voice a mix of elation and apprehension. "A whole month of freedom. It feels like I can finally breathe."

Maya linked her arm with Y/N's, sharing in her friend's newfound liberation. "Let's make the most of it. Starting with a shopping trip that doesn't involve sneaking around our own shadows."

They entered, the familiar jingle of the doorbell was like music to their ears, but it was the sight of Hyunjin and Felix that truly caught their attention. The unexpected encounter sent a thrill through Y/N, their eyes meeting across the room.

As Y/N and Maya placed their order, a silent exchange of glances between Y/N and Hyunjin sparked a flutter of anticipation. Maya, ever the keen observer, nudged Y/N playfully. "Looks like someone's happy to see you," she teased, her voice low but filled with mirth.

Encouraged by Felix's subtle prompting, Hyunjin approached them, his heart racing with a cocktail of nerves and eagerness. Adjusting his mask to partially conceal his scar, he offered a greeting that bridged the distance between them.

"Hey, didn't expect to run into you here," he said, his voice carrying a hint of warmth and uncertainty.

Y/N, caught in the unexpected moment, responded with a smile. "Yeah, it's a nice surprise," she managed, her heart echoing Hyunjin's nervousness.

Noticing the absence of Y/N's guards, Felix chimed in with a cheerful grin. "Looks like you're enjoying a bit of freedom today. Care to join us?" His eyes sparkled with the offer, inviting them into their world outside the circus.

Agreeing, they took their drinks and joined Felix and Hyunjin at their table, the arrangement of seats placing Y/N directly across from Hyunjin, and Maya opposite Felix. In a gesture of casual politeness, Felix placed his cap on the table's corner.

Hyunjin, with a hesitant motion, slid his mask just under his chin, exposing his scar to the ordinary world beyond the circus tent. It was a rare show of openness, one that he reserved for the stage or the safety of the circus family. Yet, here he was, revealing his vulnerabilities to Y/N in a setting far removed from the spotlights and applause. Felix, ever the conversationalist, took a moment from savoring his drink to delve into a topic that had piqued his interest since their arrival.

"So, how does it feel? Not having the guards shadowing your every move?" Felix inquired, his gaze fixed on Y/N, genuinely curious about her newfound freedom.

Y/N paused, allowing herself to truly consider the question. "It feels... liberating," she began, her voice laced with a sense of relief and wonder. "There's this lightness I hadn't realized I was missing until now. To move freely, without constant surveillance—it's like taking a deep breath after being underwater for too long."

Felix nodded, absorbing her words, then turned his attention to Maya. "And what about you? Did your family ever consider guards?" he asked, keen to understand the dynamics that shaped their experiences.

Maya chuckled softly, shaking her head. "No, nothing like that. My family's protective, sure, but not to the extent of Y/N's. I guess I've always taken my freedom for granted. Seeing what Y/N's been through, it does make me feel a bit guilty for not appreciating it more," she admitted, her tone tinged with empathy.

The conversation veered into the territory of parental protection, with Felix sharing his thoughts on the delicate balance between safeguarding loved ones and allowing them the space to grow. "It's a tricky line to walk," he mused. "Wanting to keep someone safe while also giving them the freedom to explore and make their own mistakes."

As Felix and Maya engaged in a lively discussion on various topics ranging from their favorite music to places they'd love to visit, Hyunjin found himself more attuned to Y/N, his gaze frequently drifting her way. Each time their eyes met, a wave of warmth washed over him, her shy smile sending his heart racing.

Y/N, for her part, felt a flutter of excitement each time she caught Hyunjin looking at her. There was something about the way he saw her—not as someone to be shielded and kept at arm's length, but as a person, vibrant and full of life. His attention made her feel seen, truly seen, in a way she hadn't experienced before.

At one point, amidst the chatter, Hyunjin seized a quiet moment to express his admiration. "You know, Y/N, there's something about you," he began, his voice soft but earnest. "Even with all the restrictions you've faced, you've managed to retain this... purity, this innocence. It's refreshing."

Y/N blushed at his words, a mix of bashfulness and delight swirling within her. "Thank you, Hyunjin. It's strange, but being here with you all, I feel like I'm finally getting a chance to just be myself. To let my guard down and not worry about who's watching."

Hyunjin smiled, his eyes conveying a depth of understanding. "That's all any of us can hope for, isn't it? To be ourselves, without fear or restraint. You shine, Y/N, especially now, free from those shadows."

As the hours slipped by, their conversation meandered through dreams and aspirations, fears and joys, each revelation drawing them closer. The café became a sanctuary where they could share pieces of themselves, building connections that transcended the ordinary. As they stepped out into the bustling streets, the atmosphere of the café lingering like a warm embrace, Y/N and Maya shared a moment of silent understanding. The encounters of the day had woven a thread of connection that felt both exhilarating and comforting.

"Today was something special, wasn't it?" Maya mused, her arm linked with Y/N's as they navigated the lively city around them. The freedom that Y/N experienced, unburdened by the watchful eyes of her guards, added a lightness to their steps.

"It really was," Y/N agreed, her mind replaying the conversations, the laughter, and the shared moments of vulnerability. The café had become a crucible for friendships that felt as if they'd been simmering for ages.

Maya, unable to contain her curiosity, let out a soft giggle. "You know, Hyunjin seemed... particularly interested in you. Did you notice the way he was looking at you?" she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Y/N felt her cheeks warm at the mention. "I might have noticed," she confessed, a shy smile playing on her lips. "There's just something about him. His perspective on life, his passion for the circus... it resonates with me. And, well, it doesn't hurt that he's quite handsome."

Maya nudged her playfully. "Quite handsome? That's an understatement! But I get it; it's more than just looks. You two seemed to really connect on a deeper level."

Y/N nodded, her heart still fluttering at the thought. "Yeah, we did. It's funny how you can meet someone and just instantly feel a bond, isn't it? His views, his dreams... they align with mine in a way I didn't expect. And being able to share that, even for a short while, felt... freeing."

The conversation drifted to dreams and aspirations, to the paths they wished to carve out for themselves. "What do you think the future holds?" Maya asked, her voice tinged with curiosity and hope.

Y/N pondered the question, the possibilities unfolding like a roadmap in her mind. "I hope it's filled with more days like today. Freedom to explore, to connect, to really live. And maybe... just maybe, to find out where these new friendships might lead."

As the sun began to dip below the skyline, casting a golden hue over the city, Y/N and Maya's steps took them closer to home. The promise of tomorrow, of future encounters, and the potential for something more with Hyunjin filled Y/N with a sense of anticipation she hadn't felt before.

"Let's make a pact," Maya suggested, squeezing Y/N's arm gently. "To always pursue this feeling of freedom, to keep exploring and opening our hearts to new experiences. Who knows where it might lead us?"

Y/N smiled, her heart full. "I'm in," she said, the pact sealing a promise not just to each other, but to themselves.

To chase the freedom they'd tasted today, to nurture the connections they'd made, and to embrace whatever adventures lay on the horizon. As Hyunjin and Felix made their way back to the circus, a quietness had settled over Hyunjin, a reflective silence that wasn't lost on Felix. The usually vibrant streets they walked through seemed to mirror Hyunjin's introspective mood, prompting Felix to break the silence between them.

"Hey," Felix began, his voice tinged with concern, nudging Hyunjin gently. "You've been awfully quiet. This isn't like you. What's on your mind?"

Hyunjin let out a sigh, his thoughts swirling with images of Y/N, their interactions both at the circus and the café playing on repeat in his mind. "It's just... ever since that first performance, when I chose her from the crowd and gave her those flowers, I haven't been able to stop thinking about her," he admitted, his voice low.

Felix raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile creeping onto his face. "Ah, so it's Y/N that's got you all tangled up in thoughts, huh? I noticed the way you two were today. There's something special there, isn't there?"

Hyunjin couldn't help but smile at the memory of their recent encounter, the ease of their conversation, and the undeniable connection he felt. "Yeah, there is. It's strange, Felix. I've met countless people through the circus, but with Y/N, it's different. There's this... genuine curiosity and understanding. And today, without the guards around, it was like seeing her in a new light."

Felix chuckled, clapping Hyunjin on the back. "I saw that. You two were in your little world. But, Hyunjin, this is good, isn't it? It's rare to find someone who resonates with you on such a level."

Hyunjin nodded, a mix of apprehension and excitement in his heart. "It is good. I just don't know what to do next. I mean, her father is so protective, and then there's the circus. Our worlds are so different."

"True, our worlds are different," Felix agreed, his tone turning thoughtful. "But isn't that the beauty of it? The circus has always been about bringing together the unlikely, about creating magic from the unexpected. Maybe it's not about the differences in your worlds, but about what you bring to each other's lives."

Hyunjin considered Felix's words, the wisdom in them clear. "You're right, Felix. I've been so caught up in how different our lives are that I almost forgot the essence of what we do—connecting with people, no matter where they come from."

Felix smiled, his eyes alight with encouragement. "Exactly. So, what are you going to do about it? You can't let this connection just fade into a 'what if,' Hyunjin."

Hyunjin took a deep breath, a newfound resolve taking shape. "I'm going to see her again. I want to explore this connection, see where it might lead. I can't promise it'll be easy, but I have to try."

As they reached the circus, the air filled with the familiar sounds and smells of their otherworldly home, both performers knew they were stepping back into their roles, but with a slight shift in their perspectives. For Hyunjin, the encounter with Y/N had opened up a realm of possibilities, a chance to bridge the gap between the grandeur of the circus and the simplicity of genuine human connection.

Felix, seeing the determination in Hyunjin's eyes, clapped him on the shoulder. "That's the spirit! Remember, the circus isn't just about the acts we perform; it's about the lives we touch. And maybe, just maybe, it's about the hearts we connect with along the way."

With the circus tents rising before them, both performers felt a renewed sense of purpose. For Hyunjin, it was the promise of pursuing something real, something beyond the sparkle and spectacle. The excitement in the air was palpable as Y/N stepped outside, the setting sun casting long shadows on the ground. Maya, brimming with enthusiasm, awaited her arrival. But before they could revel in their anticipation, Y/N's father's stern voice sliced through the evening calm.

"Y/N, remember to be careful," he called out, his tone as cold and sharp as ever. "And I expect you straight home after the show. No dallying."

Y/N nodded, a tight smile on her face. "I will, Dad. I promise," she responded, her voice carrying a mix of reassurance and the slightest hint of defiance. With a final glance back, she joined Maya, and they set off for the circus, the promise of an unforgettable night ahead.

Upon their arrival, Bang Chan greeted them with his characteristic warmth, his eyes lighting up at the sight of Y/N sans her usual entourage. "Ah, Y/N! Flying solo tonight?" he remarked with a grin, taking their tickets.

"It feels strange but good," Y/N admitted, her smile genuine. "It's a new kind of freedom."

Bang Chan nodded, understandingly. "Enjoy the show, you two. It's going to be a special one."

They found their seats at the front, the anticipation building as the circus came to life around them. The comedy act with Jeongin and Felix was a hit, their clown-like costumes barely concealing the talent and charisma that had the audience in stitches. Felix's occasional glances toward Maya didn't go unnoticed by Y/N, who leaned over to whisper, "Looks like someone's got a fan."

Maya blushed, her eyes flitting between Felix and the stage. "Do you think so? He's really funny... and kind of cute."

Y/N giggled, nodding. "Definitely. There's something there, I can tell."

The laughter and light-hearted banter continued until Jeongin, in his boundless energy, approached Y/N and invited her onto the stage. The spontaneity of the moment, the thrill of being part of the act, was exhilarating.

Lee Know's performance followed, his new song touching hearts and drawing tears with its beauty and emotional depth. Y/N found herself moved by the music, the lyrics resonating with a part of her that yearned for adventure and connection.

But it was Hyunjin's act that captivated her entirely. The ring of fire, his all-black attire, and the way he commanded the flames—it was mesmerizing. His gaze found hers during the performance, a smirk playing on his lips, sending a shiver down her spine. Y/N's heart raced, her cheeks flushed with a warmth that was new and thrilling.

As the act concluded, the audience erupted in applause, the performers backstage joining in the celebration of Hyunjin's triumph. Backstage, the camaraderie was palpable, Felix nudging Hyunjin with a knowing grin, "Did you see Y/N's reaction? She was completely spellbound."

Hyunjin, unable to hide his smile, peered past the curtain, catching Y/N animatedly discussing the performance with Maya. It was a sight that warmed his heart, the connection between them undeniable.

As the audience began to disperse, Y/N and Maya made their way toward the exit, only for Y/N to feel a gentle yet firm hand on her waist. Startled, she turned to find Hyunjin standing close behind her, his presence sending her heart into a flutter.

"Come with me," he whispered, his voice barely above a murmur, inviting her backstage. Y/N, caught off guard by his closeness and the unexpected invitation, could only nod, her cheeks aflame.

Meanwhile, Felix approached Maya with a casual ease, "How about joining us backstage? I think you've earned a closer look at how the magic happens."

As they ventured backstage, the vibrant life behind the circus unfolded before Y/N and Maya, a world unseen by the audience. Hyunjin, with a subtle touch, guided Y/N through the bustling area, his hand resting lightly on her waist, a gesture of guidance rather than possession. They were shown the intricacies of circus life: the large field dotted with tents, each serving a unique purpose—from dining to sleeping quarters. Y/N's eyes widened in awe; this nomadic lifestyle was new to her, every detail fascinating.

"It's like a whole other world back here," Y/N remarked, her voice filled with wonder.

Hyunjin smiled at her reaction. "It's our world, one we're proud to call home. Every tent has a story, every face a journey."

Unnoticed by Y/N, Felix had subtly drawn Maya aside, offering them a moment of privacy. It was only when Hyunjin stopped outside a particularly cozy-looking tent that Y/N realized they were alone. Her heart skipped a beat, not just from the thrill of the new environment but from the proximity to Hyunjin.

Hyunjin leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Do you trust me?" he asked, his eyes— one scarred and the other a deep brown—locking onto hers with an intensity that took her breath away.

Without hesitation, Y/N nodded again. There was something in his gaze that made her feel safe, even here, on the edge of the unknown.

He smiled, a genuine, heartwarming smile, and gently pulled back the tent flap. "Come on, then. Let's escape the cold for a bit."

The tent was surprisingly cozy, filled with warm blankets and soft lights that cast a golden glow on everything. Hyunjin looked different here, the shadows playing off his costume, giving him an almost mystical appearance.

"Y/N," he called softly, bringing her attention back to him. She turned, finding him closer than she expected, his presence overwhelming in the best way.

"Yes?" Her reply came out as more of a whisper, her heart racing as he stepped even closer.

For a moment, they just looked at each other, the world outside fading away. Then, with a tenderness that made her heart swell, Hyunjin cupped her cheeks in his hands. Y/N's eyes fluttered closed, lost in the sensation, then opened again to meet his gaze, her own drifting to his lips, whispering his name in anticipation. The moment their lips met, Y/N felt a surge of emotion, a mix of nervousness and excitement. She responded instinctively, her hands finding their way to his shirt, clutching it for grounding as the kiss deepened. It was a discovery for both of them, exploring a connection they hadn't dared to acknowledge until now. Her soft moan was a testament to the intensity of their feelings, a silent plea for more of this newfound affection. In the intimate cocoon of Hyunjin's tent, the world outside ceased to exist, replaced by a realm of newfound emotions and unspoken promises. The connection between Hyunjin and Y/N deepened with each shared breath, their earlier conversations and laughter giving way to a silence filled with anticipation and desire. Hyunjin's hands, once cradling Y/N's face with tender care, now rested on her waist, drawing her closer, sealing the space between them. Y/N, responding to the unspoken invitation, wrapped her arms around his neck, their lips meeting in a kiss that spoke of longing, discovery, and a fearless dive into the depths of their connection.

'If my father knew about this...' Y/N's thought trailed off, lost in the whirlwind of emotions Hyunjin stirred within her. Yet, the fear of her father's wrath paled in comparison to the magnetic pull she felt towards Hyunjin. In that moment, her need for him eclipsed all else.

Breaking the kiss, Hyunjin gazed into her eyes, a silent conversation passing between them. The intensity in his gaze sent shivers through her, a testament to the gravity of what was unfolding. It was her turn now, her response fueled by an urgency that matched his own, their kisses growing more passionate, more insistent.

Hyunjin's groan vibrated through them, a sound that heightened the electricity in the air. Gently, he laid Y/N down, his body hovering over hers, a protective and yet vulnerable gesture. The world narrowed down to the space they shared, every touch, every breath, amplifying the connection that tethered them together.

As Hyunjin's lips found her neck, Y/N trembled, the sensation igniting sparks along her skin. His hands, both gentle and urgent, pulled her closer, their bodies speaking a language older than words. In that moment, Y/N felt seen, understood, and cherished.

"Are you okay?" Hyunjin's voice, soft and concerned, broke through the haze of her arousal.

"Yes," Y/N breathed, her voice a whisper of trust and desire. "I want this, Hyunjin. I want you."

Their conversation became a symphony of sighs and murmurs, each word, each touch, weaving a deeper connection. Hyunjin moved with a reverence that belied the passion simmering beneath the surface, each movement deliberate, each pause filled with the weight of unspoken promises. The heat between them built, a crescendo of sensation and emotion that threatened to overwhelm yet felt achingly right. Y/N clung to Hyunjin, her grip a testament to the intensity of her feelings, the novelty of the experience etching itself into her memory. As they moved together, lost in the moment, their voices filled the tent, a testament to the depth of their connection. Hyunjin's movements quickened, each kiss, each touch, pushing them closer to the edge of something profound. Y/N's soft cry, a mixture of surprise and delight, melded with Hyunjin's restrained curse, their bodies moving in perfect harmony. The world outside, with its rules and judgments, faded into insignificance, replaced by the undeniable truth of their connection. When the moment came, it was with a sense of completion, a shared breath that spoke of unity and discovery. Hyunjin's movement, a gentle caress, served as a soft epilogue to their symphony of sighs and whispers. Laying beside Y/N, he wrapped an arm around her, a silent vow of protection and care.

"Thank you for trusting me," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

"Thank you for showing me your world," Y/N replied, her own voice laced with gratitude.

After sharing a moment of quiet intimacy, Y/N and Hyunjin were gently pulled back to reality by the distant sound of their friends' voices. Felix and Maya's muffled calls seemed to echo through the thick fabric of the tent, a reminder of the world waiting outside their secluded haven.

Hyunjin's hand paused in its tender motion along Y/N's arms, and they shared a look of amused surprise before breaking into soft laughter. "Sounds like we've been missed," Hyunjin whispered, his eyes twinkling with mirth.

"Yeah, I guess it's time to face the music," Y/N replied, her voice a mix of reluctance and anticipation for rejoining their friends.

With a mutual understanding, they began to ready themselves to leave the tent. Hyunjin stood first, offering Y/N a hand to help her up. "Let me help you," he said, as they navigated the small space with an ease born of newfound closeness.

As they stepped out into the cooler night air, they found Felix and Maya waiting with their backs to the tent, engrossed in their own conversation. Hyunjin and Y/N exchanged a glance, a silent agreement to try and act as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened, despite the residual glow of their shared moment.

"Hey, you two," Felix called out, turning around with a grin. "We were starting to think you'd run off to join another circus."

Maya laughed, linking her arm with Y/N's. "Did you enjoy the grand tour?" she teased, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

"It was... enlightening," Y/N managed to say, her cheeks warming at the memory of the evening's more personal moments.

Hyunjin cleared his throat, stepping forward. "It was our pleasure to show you around."

Felix nodded in agreement, then pulled out his phone. "Let me get you a taxi. It's getting late, and we wouldn't want to keep you out too long."

The taxi arrived shortly, and after heartfelt goodbyes, Y/N and Maya climbed inside, leaving the circus and its enchantment behind. As the car pulled away, Felix turned to Hyunjin, the smirk on his face impossible to miss.

He clapped Hyunjin on the shoulder, "Seems like you've cast quite the spell tonight," he remarked, a hint of brotherly teasing in his voice.

Hyunjin simply smiled, a look of contentment on his face. "Tonight was special," he admitted, his thoughts lingering on Y/N's smile and the promise of what might lie ahead.

As they parted ways for the night, each carrying their own thoughts and feelings about the evening, the magic of the circus seemed to linger in the air, a reminder of the connections made and the moments shared.

The ride back was filled with whispered conversations and shared laughter, Maya playfully nudging Y/N. "So, a different kind of magic, huh?" she teased, her voice low enough for only Y/N to hear.

Y/N's response was a mix of embarrassment and happiness. "Let's just say the circus has more wonders than I ever imagined," she whispered back, her gaze lost in the memories of the night.

.

Hyunjin awoke with the lingering warmth of the previous night's memories, a gentle smile curving his lips. As he rose from his bed, a newfound sense of self-assurance enveloped him. Standing before the mirror, he regarded his reflection with fresh eyes. The scar across his left eye, once a source of insecurity, now seemed to him a mark of his unique story, one that Y/N had seen beauty in.

"She saw beyond it," Hyunjin mused aloud, the realization that Y/N accepted him wholly bringing a light to his eyes that hadn't been there before.

Dressing quickly, he stepped out, ready to face the day, only to encounter Seungmin, Minho, and Bang Chan waiting outside. Bang Chan's eyebrow arched inquisitively, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. "So, Hyunjin, how was your evening with our favorite audience member?" he teased, the amusement clear in his voice.

Hyunjin's cheeks flushed a deep shade of red, the unexpected question catching him off guard. Seungmin and Minho couldn't contain their laughter at Hyunjin's embarrassment, further adding to the playful atmosphere.

Seungmin, trying to catch his breath between laughs, managed to say, "Felix might have mentioned something about a backstage tour last night. Spill the details, Hyunjin!"

Hyunjin, now thoroughly embarrassed but also filled with the happiness of shared moments, tried to deflect. "It was nothing out of the ordinary, just showing them around, you know?"

Minho, still chuckling, nudged Hyunjin playfully. "Come on, you can tell us more. We're your brothers, aren't we? Was it magical?"

Bang Chan, always the leader, stepped in with a smile. "Alright, let's give Hyunjin a break. But, it's good to see you happy, Hyunjin. This place... it's not just about the performances we put on. It's about the connections we make, the lives we touch."

Hyunjin, feeling the support and camaraderie of his friends, nodded, a genuine smile returning to his face. "Thanks, guys. Last night was special, not just because of the tour. It was... it felt right, being with Y/N, showing her our world."

The group shared a moment of understanding, recognizing the significance of Hyunjin's words. Seungmin clapped Hyunjin on the shoulder, "Well, we're happy for you. Who knows, maybe there's more magic to come."

As they continued with their morning routines, the conversation shifted to the day's performances, but Hyunjin's thoughts remained with Y/N. As Y/N floated through the house, her steps light and her heart full, the melody of her humming filled the air, a sweet testament to her blissful state. The memory of the previous night with Hyunjin played on repeat in her mind, bringing a radiant smile to her face that she couldn't contain.

The household staff—cleaners, chefs, and guards—all paused in their duties to watch her, a rare sight of such unbridled joy. They exchanged knowing looks, attributing her happiness to the newfound freedom she'd been granted, unaware of the true source of her elation.

Even the family butler, usually so reserved and stoic, couldn't help but crack a smile at the sight of Y/N's happiness. It was as if her joy was infectious, spreading warmth throughout the grand, often too-silent, house.

Her mother, entering the living room, found herself momentarily taken aback by the scene. Watching her daughter twirl and dance around the room, she felt a surge of affection and a deep gratitude for seeing Y/N so genuinely happy. With a tender smile, she called out to her daughter, her voice soft yet clear. "Y/N, my dear, what has gotten into you today?"

Y/N came to a graceful stop, her smile unwavering as she faced her mother. "Oh, Mom," she sighed, her eyes sparkling with the remnants of last night's magic. "It's just been a wonderful couple of days."

Her mother walked closer, intrigued and delighted by her daughter's demeanor. "This wouldn't have anything to do with your visit to the circus, would it?" she teased gently, a twinkle in her own eye.

Y/N blushed, the mention of the circus bringing back a flood of vivid memories. "Maybe," she admitted, her voice a whisper of excitement. "There's just something about that place... and the people there. It's like they've shown me a whole new world."

Her mother took her hands, leading her to sit on one of the plush sofas in the room. "Tell me everything, Y/N. Who is 'they'? And what has made you see the world so differently?" Her curiosity was piqued, not just by her daughter's joy, but by the hint of something deeper, a connection perhaps yet unspoken.

Y/N, taking a deep breath, began to recount her experiences at the circus, from the breathtaking performances to the magical behind-the-scenes tour. She spoke of Hyunjin with a warmth and fondness that couldn't be masked, detailing their shared moments with a shy enthusiasm.

As Y/N spoke, her mother listened intently, absorbing every detail. It was clear that this wasn't just a fleeting moment of happiness; something significant had touched her daughter's heart. "Hyunjin sounds like a remarkable young man," her mother observed, her words thoughtful, encouraging Y/N to open up further.

Y/N's voice trembled with excitement as she recounted her experiences, her mother's attentive gaze encouraging her to open up more than she ever had before.

"Mom, Hyunjin... he's just incredible. The way he performs, it's like he's telling a story, inviting us into his world," Y/N shared, her hands animatedly moving in the air.

Her mother, intrigued, leaned in. "It sounds like he's quite the performer. And it seems like he's made a special impression on you?"

Blushing, Y/N nodded. "Yes, but it's more than that. He's kind, genuine, and... he sees the world in such a unique way. It's refreshing."

Seeing her daughter so vibrant, her mother couldn't help but smile. "I'm happy for you, Y/N. It's beautiful to see you so passionate about something...someone."

The mention of someone brought a hint of concern to Y/N's voice. "But, Mom, what about Dad? You know how he feels about the circus, and if he finds out about Hyunjin..."

Her mother sighed, a thoughtful frown creasing her brow. "We'll deal with your father together. The most important thing is your happiness, Y/N. We can't live our lives based on fear."

"But how can we convince him? He's never going to understand," Y/N's worry was palpable, her newfound joy shadowed by the prospect of her father's disapproval.

Her mother reached out, taking Y/N's hands in hers. "Let me worry about your father. Maybe it's time he saw the circus through your eyes. Perhaps if he understands what it means to you, he might see things differently."

Y/N looked up, hope mingling with surprise. "You think that could work? That he might actually listen?"

"It's worth a try. And I'll be right there with you. We'll show him that the circus, that Hyunjin, has brought you something special — joy, inspiration. Things every parent wants for their child," her mother said firmly, her resolve clear.

Y/N felt a weight lift off her shoulders, her mother's support giving her strength. "Thank you, Mom. For believing in me, for standing by me."

They shared a warm embrace, the morning light wrapping around them like a cocoon of hope and love. "Together, we'll face whatever comes. Your dreams are worth fighting for," her mother whispered.

As the anticipation built, Hyunjin found himself scanning the crowd for a familiar face, his heart skipping a beat at the thought of seeing Y/N again. After the closeness they'd shared, every moment away from her felt like an eternity. He adjusted his magician's attire, trying to calm the flutter in his stomach.

Chanbin noticed Hyunjin's unease and clapped him on the back, a smirk on his face. "Nervous, are we? She'll be here, don't worry," he teased, trying to lighten the mood.

Meanwhile, Y/N and her family were making their way to the circus, a mix of excitement and apprehension in the air. Y/N's mother, beaming with support, squeezed her hand reassuringly, while her father's presence loomed quietly, his skepticism a silent shadow.

As they approached the entrance, Y/N's grip on the tickets tightened, her excitement tempered by the weight of what this night meant. Bang Chan's eyes sparkled with recognition as he saw Y/N, but his usual warm greeting was tempered by the sight of her parents.

"Welcome," he said, his voice carrying a professional edge, as he collected their tickets.

Finding their seats at the front, Y/N took a deep breath, her mother's excitement infectious, her father's indifference a challenge she hoped to overcome by the night's end. The lights dimmed, signaling the beginning of the show, and Bang Chan's voice filled the tent, welcoming the audience to a world of wonder.

The opening act was a vibrant display of song and dance, the main eight performers taking the stage with an energy that was both infectious and inspiring. As they sang "Welcome to my home," their unique scars were displayed not as flaws but as badges of honor, a testament to their resilience and spirit. Seungmin's burn, I.N's playful yet intense demeanor, Felix's captivating eyes, Jisung's mysterious eyepatch, Lee Know's graceful movements despite his prosthetic leg, Bang Chan's strength despite his prosthetic arm, Chanbin's chest scar, and Hyunjin's scarred and blind left eye — each performer shone, their differences making the performance all the more beautiful.

From the stage, Hyunjin's gaze found Y/N, a subtle acknowledgment passing between them. He noted the older couple with her, their presence making him cautious in his expressions of recognition. While Y/N and her mother were caught up in the magic of the performance, her father remained impassive, his expression unreadable.

During a brief interlude, Y/N leaned over to her mother, whispering excitedly, "This is it, Mom. This is the magic I was telling you about."

Her mother, equally captivated, whispered back, "It's incredible, Y/N. I see it now, the joy, the passion. It's all so...real."

Her father, overhearing the exchange, remained silent, his gaze fixed on the stage, the performers' energy challenging his preconceptions. As the show continued, each act unfolding with more spectacle and wonder, Y/N felt a mix of emotions. Pride for the performers she'd come to admire, hope for her mother's newfound appreciation, and a lingering concern for her father's reaction.

The show unfolded with an array of stunning performances, each unique and captivating. Y/N leaned toward her mother, whispering with excitement, "Mom, look, this one's new. I haven't seen it before!"

Her mother smiled, equally engrossed. "It's wonderful, Y/N. Every act is a surprise."

On stage, Jeongin, in his comedic clown act with Felix, tried once again to summon a bouquet of flowers. Instead, a bundle of twigs with a few petals appeared in his hands. He approached a lady in the front row, presenting the twigs with a theatrical bow and a wide, infectious smile. The audience chuckled as Felix quipped a witty remark and playfully bonked Jeongin on the head with a juggling club, their chemistry undeniable. Lee Know then took the stage, his voice carrying a beautiful melody, accompanied by dancers and acrobats. The performance was mesmerizing, drawing applause and admiration from the crowd. Chanbin's lion taming act followed, as impressive as ever, demonstrating an incredible bond and command over the majestic animal. Seungmin and Jisung showcased their acrobatic skills, performing a unique dance that combined ground movements and aerial feats, leaving the audience spellbound. Then it was time for Hyunjin's magic act. Darker and more intense than usual, it captivated everyone, drawing them into a world of mystery and intrigue. After performing a classic flower summoning trick that always pleased the crowd, Hyunjin prepared for something more interactive. He sought a volunteer, and as numerous hands shot up, whispers of his attractiveness and talent filled the air. Y/N, heart racing, timidly raised her hand. Hyunjin's eyes scanned the eager audience before playfully gesturing to the raised hands and finally settling on Y/N. A hush fell over the crowd as he approached her, offering a bow and an outstretched hand. Y/N, with a mixture of excitement and nervousness, took his hand and stood.

Her father's and mother's breaths hitched, the tension palpable. Hyunjin, sensing their concern, turned to assure them with a confident smile, "She's in good hands, I promise."

Leading Y/N into the center of the circle, Hyunjin prepared for the trick, the audience watching in anticipation. Y/N's mother leaned over to her husband, whispering, "See? It's all in good fun. She's safe with him."

Her father, still rigid, nodded slowly, his eyes fixed on Y/N and Hyunjin. The magic trick unfolded, with Hyunjin guiding Y/N through each step, their interaction seamless and filled with light-hearted banter that put everyone at ease, even her father.

As the act concluded to resounding applause, Y/N returned to her seat, her cheeks flushed with excitement. "That was incredible, Y/N!" her mother exclaimed, hugging her. As the final act of the circus came to a close, the vibrant energy of the evening began to wane, replaced by a quiet sense of anticipation. Y/N glanced between her mother, whose eyes sparkled with a revived passion for the performing arts, and her father, whose expression remained a stoic mask, giving nothing away.

Walking back to the car, Y/N tried to gauge her father's thoughts. "Did you enjoy the show, Dad?" she ventured, hoping for some sign of approval.

Her father remained silent until they were safely ensconced in their car, driving away from the circus. It was her mother who broke the silence first, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "Oh, Y/N, that was simply wonderful! It reminded me of my days in the theater. The passion, the creativity... it's all so inspiring!"

Y/N smiled, warmed by her mother's words, but the cold silence from her father chilled the air. As they arrived home, the tension was palpable. Y/N lingered, waiting for her father to speak.

Finally, he broke the silence, his voice stern and final. "I did not approve of what I saw tonight. That place...it's not right for you, Y/N."

Her heart sank. "But Dad, the circus is amazing! It's full of art and beauty and..."

He cut her off sharply. "It has corrupted your judgment. It's childish and a bad influence. Those performers...they're not the sort of people we associate with. They're...different."

Y/N's mother interjected, trying to mediate. "Dear, maybe we should talk about this calmly. Y/N has found something she truly loves..."

Her father was unyielding. "No. I've made up my mind. Starting tomorrow, the guards will be back by your side, Y/N. You are no longer allowed to visit the circus or see that magician. This nonsense ends now."

Y/N felt as if the ground had been pulled from under her. Tears welled up in her eyes. "Dad, please...you don't understand. Hyunjin, the circus, they've shown me so much. It's not what you think."

“Enough!" His voice boomed, echoing through the hall, causing the household staff to glance their way, worry etched on their faces.

Her mother reached out, a soothing hand on Y/N's shoulder, but the damage was done. "Go to your room, Y/N," her father ordered, his voice leaving no room for argument.

Heartbroken, Y/N fled, the echo of her father's decree haunting her. As she reached her sanctuary, tears streamed down her face, the magic of the evening tarnished by her father's words. In her room, Y/N felt a world away from the joy and acceptance she'd experienced at the circus. The thought of never seeing Hyunjin again, of never being part of that magical world, filled her with despair.

Her mother soon knocked gently on her door. "Y/N? Can I come in?"

Y/N wiped her tears. "Yes, Mom."

Her mother entered, sitting beside her on the bed. "I'm so sorry, Y/N. I'll talk to him, I promise. We'll find a way through this."

Y/N's world had grown smaller, each day bleeding into the next under the watchful eyes of her guards. Her heart, once alight with dreams of the circus and whispers of love, now felt heavy with unshed tears and words left unsaid.

"I just... I love him, Mom," Y/N sobbed into her mother's embrace, the confession spilling from her in a desperate whisper. Her mother, her heart breaking for her daughter, held her tight, offering silent strength and understanding.

Maya, ever the loyal friend, tried to pierce the veil of Y/N's isolation with her presence. But the sight of the guards, a constant reminder of Y/N's shackles, dimmed her usual vibrant spirit. "We'll find a way through this," she murmured, wrapping an arm around Y/N, though the path forward seemed obscured by shadows.

Hyunjin, on the other side of the city, felt a void where Y/N's presence used to be. "Has anyone seen her? It's been weeks," he asked, his voice echoing the confusion and hurt that had taken residence in his heart. The performers, too, felt the absence of their bright, regular audience member. "Y/N always said her father was protective, but this...," Felix trailed off, the situation leaving a bitter taste.

As Y/N retreated further into her isolation, Maya's attempts to bridge the gap were met with a door closed by fear and a father's decree. Y/N's world narrowed to the confines of her room, her spirit dimming with each passing day. Then, a day came when laughter, so rare in their home, drew Y/N from her solitude. Curiosity leading her, she found her father in the company of strangers — the Choi family. The introduction to Soobin, a young man who seemed as out of place as she felt, was punctuated by an awkward politeness.

It was the mention of marriage by Mrs. Choi that sliced through the polite façade, leaving a stunned silence in its wake. "Marriage?" Y/N echoed, her voice a mix of disbelief and rising panic. Soobin's sigh, laden with resignation, mirrored her own turmoil.

Her father, oblivious to her shock, beamed with pride. "Yes, marriage. It's high time you settled down, Y/N. The Choi family is respectable, and Soobin here is a fine young man."

Y/N's mother, caught off guard, shot her husband a look of surprise and concern. "But this is so sudden. Y/N, we haven't discussed..."

"We've made the decision for her best interest," her father interrupted, his tone leaving no room for debate.

Maya, who had managed to slip in unnoticed, exchanged a worried glance with Y/N. "Y/N, you can't let them do this to you," she whispered urgently.

Y/N, her mind racing, felt trapped. The thought of a life dictated by her father's will, devoid of the love and freedom she yearned for, tightened around her heart like a vice.

As the room swirled around her, Y/N's thoughts flew to Hyunjin, to the magic and love she'd found in his presence. In that moment, amidst the talk of arranged marriages and futures not her own, Y/N realized the true cost of her silence.

"I won't do this," Y/N found her voice, her resolve hardening. "I won't marry someone I don't love. My heart... it belongs to someone else."

The room's atmosphere was thick with tension as Y/N stood defiantly, her declaration not just a plea for her love but a staunch defense of her freedom. Her father, face flushed with a mix of anger and embarrassment, rebuked her sharply. "Y/N, silence!" he demanded, the room falling deathly quiet at his command. "In front of our guests, you speak of such nonsense? You will marry into the Choi family, and that's final. Forget this magician and his circus. It's for your own good."

Soobin, up until now a silent observer of the unfolding family drama, showed a spark of interest at the mention of the circus. "The circus?" he inquired, an intrigued look crossing his features.

His parents, momentarily distracted from the confrontation, lit up at the mention. "Oh, we've always adored the circus," Soobin's mother said, her tone suddenly lively. "Such a fascinating world of talent and dreams."

"And Felix," Soobin's father added with a smile, "he's a remarkable performer there. Met Soobin after a show, and they've been friends since."

At the mention of Felix, Maya's face flushed a deep shade of red, her eyes darting between Soobin and Y/N. "You know Felix?" she blurted out, her voice tinged with a mixture of surprise and something akin to excitement.

Soobin nodded, a hint of pride in his voice. "Yes, our friendship formed in the most unexpected of places. His passion for the circus, his art... it's truly inspiring. It's a world where creativity and passion flourish."

Seizing the momentary shift in the conversation, Y/N turned to her parents, her voice imbued with a mixture of hope and desperation. "See? The circus isn't just frivolity. It's about dedication, artistry... it's where I feel most alive. Hyunjin, Felix, and everyone there, they're not just performers; they're family."

Her mother, visibly moved by Y/N's passionate defense, sought to mediate. "Perhaps we've been too quick to judge," she said softly, her gaze pleading with her husband.

Y/N's father, however, remained unmoved, his face a mask of disapproval. "Y/N, your involvement with the circus and this magician... it's not the future we envisioned for you."

Soobin, sensing an opportunity to ease the tension, offered a thoughtful suggestion. "Understanding and seeing are two different things. Maybe there's merit in experiencing the world Y/N speaks of so fondly."

The room grew silent, the idea hanging in the balance. Y/N's father, after a tense pause, shook his head. "Our decision stands. Y/N, your future lies with the Choi family. This discussion is over."

Y/N, her heart sinking, looked between her parents, the finality in her father's voice dashing any hope of reconciliation. "But I love him," she whispered, a last desperate plea.

Her father's response was cold, uncompromising. "Your feelings for this... magician are irrelevant. You'll see, in time, this is for the best."

Maya, standing beside Y/N, squeezed her friend's hand in silent support. The mention of Felix had briefly illuminated a path to understanding, but Y/N's father's decision cast a long shadow over their hopes.

In the quiet aftermath of the day, the [Last Name] residence stood imposingly under the waning sun. Maya, with a determined stride, was the first to exit, her mind racing with plans and worries. Inside, Y/N retreated to the solace of her room, a sanctuary from the storm brewing in her life.

Mrs. [Last Name], after ensuring the Choi family was well on their way, turned to Soobin with a plea that carried the weight of a mother's love and desperation. "Soobin," she began, her voice steady yet imbued with urgency, "I need your help. My daughter... she's being forced into a life she doesn't want. She loves someone else—Hyunjin. We need to get her out, to give her the freedom to be with the one she truly loves. Can I count on you?"

Soobin, a mixture of surprise and empathy shadowing his features, nodded solemnly. "Mrs. [Last Name], I had no idea. Of course, you can count on me. It's clear Y/N and Hyunjin mean a lot to each other. I'll do whatever I can to help."

Unbeknownst to them, Maya, who had lingered near the entrance, overheard the conversation. Stepping forward, her resolve shone brightly. "I'm here too. Y/N is my best friend, and I'll do anything to help her be happy."

Mr. and Mrs. Choi, having paused at the doorstep, turned at Maya's declaration. Their expressions softened, regret coloring their features. "We came under the impression that Y/N was aware and agreeable to this arrangement," Mr. Choi admitted, his voice laced with disappointment. "To hear this...it's not something we can support. Love should be the foundation of marriage, not obligation."

Mrs. Choi added, "Our son deserves happiness, but not at the cost of another's freedom. We stand with Y/N in her choice."

With a newfound alliance formed under the most unexpected circumstances, Maya and Soobin wasted no time. They made their way to the circus, hoping against hope to find Hyunjin and rally the support they desperately needed. The circus, usually bustling with life and laughter, stood silent, its gates locked on the performers' day off. Yet, fortune favored them as Bang Chan and Felix, deep in conversation, were spotted near the entrance.

Felix's eyes lit up at the sight of Soobin, and even more so at Maya's presence. A hint of color crept into his cheeks, his usual composure slipping slightly. "Soobin, Maya," he greeted, curiosity piqued. "What brings you here, especially today?"

"It's about Y/N," Maya stated, the urgency in her voice cutting through the evening air.

At the mention of Y/N's name, a silent understanding passed between Bang Chan and Felix. Without hesitation, they ushered Maya and Soobin inside, into the heart of the silent circus. As they entered, the main eight performers, momentarily pausing their private endeavours, gathered around. The arrival of outsiders, especially under such unusual circumstances, piqued their interest.

Soobin, with a gravity that belied his years, shared Y/N's plight. "Her father's intentions have worsened. He's forcing her into a marriage she doesn't want. We've tried reasoning with him, but it's futile. Even Mrs. [Last Name]'s attempts have been rebuffed. Our last resort is to help Y/N escape, to be with Hyunjin."

The performers exchanged glances, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Bang Chan, ever the leader, stepped forward. "This is more than a call for help; it's a call to arms for us. Y/N is one of our own, through her love for Hyunjin and the circus. We will stand by her, do whatever it takes."

Felix, looking from Maya to Soobin, then back to the gathered performers, said, "We need a plan, something foolproof. Her father cannot know until it's too late for him to intervene."

Jeongin, always the creative thinker, suggested, "What if we create a diversion? Not the circus, but something else that demands his attention away from Y/N?"

Seungmin, the strategist, added, "We could fabricate an event, something prestigious enough that he wouldn't dare miss. That would give us the window we need."

Hyunjin, who had been quiet, his thoughts on Y/N, finally spoke up. "Thank you, all of you. But we need to ensure Y/N's safety above all. Where can she go where her father won't find her?"

Chanbin, known for his resourcefulness, had an answer. "I know a place, a safe house. It's secluded and secure. Perfect for Y/N until things settle down."

In the quiet of the early morning, the [Last Name] household was a hive of silent activity. Y/N's mother, complicit in the plan to help her daughter escape, moved through the house with a calm urgency. She quietly packed Y/N's belongings, whispering words of encouragement.

"We must be quick, darling. Everything will be alright," she assured Y/N, who nodded, her heart racing with a mix of fear and anticipation.

Outside, Maya and Soobin waited anxiously, keeping a lookout for any signs of trouble. Inside, the circus performers, Jeongin, Jisung, and Lee Know, had disguised themselves as new staff members, blending seamlessly with the household's daily operations. Their presence, unknown to Y/N's father, was crucial for the plan's success. Y/N's father, absorbed in his work, remained oblivious to the unfolding escape. Y/N's mother took this opportunity to engage him, drawing his attention away from the rest of the house.

"Darling, could you review these documents for me? I need your expertise," she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil within.

As Y/N made her way through the house, her heart skipped a beat when she spotted Hyunjin. The weeks of separation had been a dull ache in her heart, and now, seeing him, the floodgates opened. She ran to him, her emotions overwhelming her.

"Hyunjin!" she cried out, throwing her arms around him.

Hyunjin held her tightly, a mix of joy and urgency in his voice. "I've missed you so much, Y/N. But we need to move quickly," he said, glancing around for any signs of discovery.

Their reunion was cut short by the realization that Y/N's father had discovered the deception. His voice, thunderous and filled with anger, echoed through the house. "Y/N! What is the meaning of this? Return here at once!"

Y/N clung to Hyunjin, her resolve hardening. "No, Father. I'm leaving. With Hyunjin," she declared, her voice steady despite the shaking of her hands.

Her mother, hearing the commotion, rushed to intervene, placing herself between her husband and the escaping group. "Please, understand. Y/N deserves to choose her own path, her own happiness," she pleaded, her eyes filled with tears.

Y/N's father, faced with his wife's opposition, grew even more incensed. "This is madness! You're both blinded by this... this fantasy! She belongs here, with her family, not with some street performers!"

Y/N, taking a deep breath, stepped forward, her mother's presence giving her strength. "No, Father. For once, listen. I love Hyunjin, and the circus is where I found my true self. I won't live a life chosen by anyone else. This is my choice, my future."

The confrontation reached its peak, with Y/N's father unable to breach the united front of his wife and daughter. His voice, though loud and commanding, was powerless against Y/N's determined stance.

Outside, Maya and Soobin heard the commotion and prepared to intervene, but it was clear that Y/N had taken control of her destiny. With one last look at her father, Y/N turned, her hand in Hyunjin's, and together with the others, they made their escape. The household staff, who had silently supported Y/N's choice, watched as the group disappeared into the early morning light. Their silent prayers followed the young woman who dared to choose love over duty.

As the car drove away, Y/N looked back at the only home she had ever known, now a symbol of her past. Ahead lay the uncertain road to freedom and the promise of a future with Hyunjin by her side.

Her mother's last words echoed in her heart, "Be brave, my love. Be happy."

The journey to the safe house was tense, with every passing moment filled with the fear of pursuit. But as the miles widened between Y/N and her former life, a sense of relief began to settle in. Hyunjin, his arm around her shoulders, offered silent support, his presence a constant reassurance. Upon their arrival at the secluded safe house, Y/N felt a weight lift from her shoulders. The danger was not over, but for the first time in a long while, she dared to hope for a future where her choices defined her life.

Inside, the group gathered, a makeshift family brought together by a shared goal. "We did it," Hyunjin whispered, his eyes meeting Y/N's. "Together."

Y/N, her gaze steady, nodded. "Together," she echoed, her voice a testament to the journey ahead. "No matter what comes next, we face it together."

The dust of turmoil settled into a quiet calm as Y/N began a new chapter of her life under the protective wing of Maya and the Choi family. Their home became her sanctuary, a place where laughter and warmth replaced the shadows of her past. The Choi family, wielding their considerable influence and resources, erected an impenetrable barrier against Y/N's father, ensuring that neither he nor his old-world dictates could reach her again. Hyunjin, though physically apart, remained a steadfast presence in Y/N's life. His tent in The Circus, now not just a home but a symbol of resilience, beckoned her with the promise of visits filled with joy and the magic of the circus life they both cherished. In the background, a battle of a different kind was being fought — one that would liberate not just Y/N but her mother as well. The Choi family, acting as silent guardians, facilitated the severance of ties that had long bound Y/N's mother to a life of silent acquiescence. The divorce proceedings, though steeped in legality, were underscored by a fight for dignity and self-determination. The day the divorce was finalized felt like a collective exhale. Y/N, her mother, Maya, Soobin, and his parents gathered in the Choi's expansive living room, a space that had become a courtroom of sorts. Y/N's father, a man who had wielded control like a weapon, now appeared diminished, the reality of his situation settling in as he looked over the divorce papers.

"Is this what you want?" he asked Y/N's mother, his voice devoid of its usual command.

"Yes," she replied, her voice steady, her hands unshaking as she met his gaze. "It's time we both found freedom from this prison we've called a marriage."

Y/N watched as her mother spoke her truth, a swell of pride and admiration blooming within her. The room was thick with tension as Y/N's father looked from the papers to Soobin's parents, searching for an ally but finding none.

Soobin's father, a man of few words but immense presence, finally spoke. "It's done. Sign the papers. It's time everyone moved forward."

With a resigned sigh, Y/N's father signed the documents, each stroke of his pen severing the chains that had bound Y/N and her mother to a life of suffocation and despair.

As the pen was set down, a palpable sense of relief washed over the room. Y/N's mother, tears glistening in her eyes, reached for Y/N, embracing her tightly. "We're free, my love. Truly free," she whispered, her voice a mix of joy and liberation.

Y/N, her own eyes moist with tears, nodded. "Together, Mom. We have a whole new life ahead of us."

The group gathered closer, a circle of support and shared triumph. Maya, always the voice of optimism, chimed in, "This is just the beginning. There's so much more to come, so many more adventures to have."

Hyunjin, joining them later that day, brought with him the air of the circus — a reminder of the life that awaited them. "We're going to make so many more memories," he promised, taking Y/N's hand in his.

Y/N's mother, looking around at the faces of those who had become her family by choice, felt a surge of gratitude. "Thank you," she said, addressing everyone. "For fighting not just for Y/N, but for me too. For giving us both the chance to live our lives on our own terms."

The Choi family, Maya, Soobin, and especially Hyunjin, had become her champions, her protectors, and her friends. In their company, Y/N and her mother found not just safety but a sense of belonging.

As the evening wore on, filled with plans for the future and stories of the past, Y/N realized that this was more than just an ending. It was a beginning — a chance to redefine herself away from the shadows of expectation and into the light of self-discovery. The golden hues of dusk melted into the twilight, Y/N, Maya, Y/N's mother, and the Choi family approached the grand tent of The Circus, a beacon of joy and wonder that had become a second home to them over the years. The anticipation in the air was palpable, each step carrying them closer to an evening filled with magic and spectacle. Bang Chan, ever the charismatic leader, stood by the entrance, his presence as inviting as the warm glow emanating from within the tent. His eyes lit up at the sight of the approaching group, his arms spread wide in a gesture of welcome.

"Ah, the stars of the evening have arrived!" he exclaimed, his voice booming with genuine warmth. "I hope you're all ready for a show unlike any other!"

As they neared, Bang Chan's gaze softened upon Y/N, noticing the grace with which she navigated her surroundings, a radiant smile playing on her lips. The sight of her, more luminous than ever with her burgeoning baby bump, filled him with a sense of pride.

"Look at you, Y/N! Glowing and absolutely flying through life!" he chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mirth. "Let's get you seated comfortably, shall we?"

Inside, the tent was alive with an electric buzz, the air thick with the scent of popcorn and the melodious strains of music that promised an unforgettable night. The group made their way to the front row, the seats reserved for them offering an unobstructed view of the spectacle about to unfold. The show was a masterpiece of light, sound, and skill, each act surpassing the last in thrill and wonder. Acrobats soared through the air with the grace of birds in flight, jugglers wove patterns of light with their flaming torches, and clowns brought laughter and lightness, reminding every one of the joy in simplicity. As the final act drew to a close and the audience began to disperse, carrying with them the magic of the evening, the main performers of The Circus emerged from behind the curtains, their faces alight with the joy of having shared their world.

Hyunjin was the first to reach Y/N, his eyes shining with an emotion so profound it seemed to light up the space around them. He knelt before her, his hands gently caressing her baby bump, a silent conversation of love and anticipation passing between them.

Leaning forward, he planted a tender kiss on her forehead, whispering, "You're amazing, you know that? I can't wait to meet our little miracle."

Y/N, her eyes misting over with emotion, smiled, her hand coming to rest atop his. "Every day with you is a miracle, Hyunjin. I can't believe how far we've come."

"Did we manage to surprise you this time?" he asked with a cheeky grin.

"You always do," Y/N replied, her laughter mingling with his. "Though I'm starting to think the baby's going to be a circus performer the way it's kicking right now."

Felix, not to be outdone in the enthusiasm department, swept Maya into a celebratory embrace, his energy boundless. "Did you see that triple flip? I did that just for you," he boasted, setting her down with a flourish.

Maya rolled her eyes, her smile betraying her amusement. "Show-off. I'm more impressed you didn't land on your face this time."

The banter continued, light and full of warmth, as they recounted the night's highlights and shared laughs over the mishaps that only they could see. It was a gathering of individuals who had become family, not by blood but by bonds forged in the fires of adversity and triumph. The tent, now empty save for their group, felt like a world apart, a secret place where the trials of the past dissolved into the hope of the future. As they gathered in a circle, sharing stories and laughter, the sense of family and belonging was overwhelming.

Y/N's mother, looking around at the faces of those who had become her chosen family, felt a surge of gratitude. "I never imagined life could be this beautiful," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "To see my daughter so happy, so in love, about to start her own family... it's more than I ever dared hope for."

Bang Chan, observing the scene, felt a deep sense of fulfillment. "This is what it's all about," he mused aloud. "Creating a space where everyone can find happiness, where love and magic thrive. Y/N, your journey, your courage... it's inspired us all."

As the evening drew to a close, the group made their way out of the tent, the stars overhead shining brightly, as if in celebration of the love and life that flourished beneath them. The Circus, with its wonders and joys, stood as a testament to the power of resilience, love, and the magic that exists when hearts are open and dreams are pursued with courage.

Walking hand in hand, Y/N and Hyunjin paused, looking back at the tent that symbolized so much more than just entertainment. It was a reminder of their journey, of battles fought and won, and of the beauty that awaits when darkness is overcome with light.

"Here's to new beginnings," Hyunjin said, his voice filled with hope.

"And to a future filled with love, laughter, and magic," Y/N added, her heart full.

And with that, they stepped out into the night, the stars overhead shining down on them like spotlights, illuminating the path forward. The circus behind them was more than a place of entertainment; it was a reminder of resilience, of laughter in the face of darkness, and of the unwavering belief that, no matter what, the show must go on. Together, they walked into the future, a future where fear had no hold, where love bound them tighter than any performance could, and where happiness was not just an act in a circus but the reality they lived every day.

.

#stray kids #skz #stray kids x you #stray kids x y/n #stray kids x reader #fanfic #fanfiction #hyunjin stray kids #stray kids hyunjin #hyunjin skz #skz hyunjin #skz x female reader #skz x y/n #skz x you #skz x reader #stray kids x female reader #hyunjin x y/n #hyunjin x you #hyunjin smut #hyunjin x reader #hyunjin #smut #hyunjin fluff

[bidisastersanji]

Circus One Piece AU with sword swallower/knife thrower Zoro and tightrope walker/aerial act Sanji please and thank you

They (and the rest of the crew) grew up in the « Thousand Sunny » circus together:

Sanji’s adoptive dad, Zeff, is the circus cook who always tells a different, wild story about how he lost his leg (it often involves a lion, even though the circus doesn’t use animals in its show, despite its lion logo)

Zoro’s parents both died in an accident when he was young and his relatives (Shimotsuki) took him in. His childhood friend Kuina had an accident and is now a wheelchair user- she handles the circus social media and marketing with Nami

They both have had crushes on each other for years but don’t dare to fo anything because not only what if the other feels the same but what if it doesn’t work out and they have to leave their circus family- so instead they keep bickering and pigtail pulling

I think it’s common for circus performers to have many abilities but specializing in certain things so let’s just assume most of them are good at basic acrobatic/circus things

Sanji is an aerial artist (aerial silks, hoops etc) and tightrope walker and Zoro is good at sword swallowing, stage combat and knife throwing

A lot of the crew are orphans who were adopted into the circus family from many countries the circus has passed through, so they have little accents and have the best time celebrating everyone’s different traditions and holidays

Usopp is a magician, Vivi does diabolo, Franky a strongman, Robin does Trapeze, Luffy is known for his contortionist act but also does some clowning, Ace and Sabo do fire performances, Brook is their communal grandpa in charge of music, Jinbei is the cool dependable uncle in charge of setting everything up to regulation and navigating their caravan where Nami tells them to go

Although she does Chinese pole, Nami is growing up to be the person who’ll take over the circus management/strategy- she wants them to make bank and strategizes on what acts they do, innovative acts and staging they can do etc

Luffy’s dream is for their circus to be the best in the world - they’re already going around different countries but he wants a full international tour, eager to take over after his grandpa (ringmaster) passes it on to him

Chopper is the adoptive son of the troupe doctor (Kureha) who does some equestrian tricks (voltige) but mostly studies hard to be a doctor too. He’s still a kid but everyone is else is an adult

Sanji often gets really distracted by Zoro during practice times- their outfits are revealing and he’s so buff and like what else can he do with his mouth goddamn

He only once called Zoro a « sword swallower » when he was a (still closeted) teen to try and bully his friend/rival but Zoro just grinned at him and said « proudly » and Sanji almost died from that mental image and never used that insult again (he might have gotten a nosebleed)

Naturally Zoro is also dumbstruck by Sanji’s beauty and grace on the regular- and he often gets in trouble for watching Sanji’s act and almost missing cues

The gang always gets into so many shenanigans in every new city they travel to and they love each other so dearly

One day a video of Zoro practicing goes viral (because he’s hot and talented) and Sanji is definitely not responsible for a few dozen views on that video

Zoro always gets a little jealous and annoyed when he finds Sanji flirting with local girls

And that’s all the ideas I have for now! Please feel free to add to this!! I’d love to see what you guys would be fun to have in the circus AU

#zosan #zoro x sanji #zosan fic idea #zosan au #one piece au #circus one piece au #one piece zosan #circus zosan au #aerialist!sanji

[theragathas]

Ragamaster: HERE’S THE HOOP OF GAY

Ragamaster: IF YOU GET PASS THE HOOP, YOURE GAY

Ragamaster: LOOKS LIKE YOURE GAY SWAP

Ragamaster: LOOKS LIKE YOURE GAY RAGAVAMP

Ragamaster: WELL UHH SINFUL IS ALREADY GAY

Ragamaster: AND YOU GAY TOO LC

Ragamaster: AND AI YOURE ALRIGHT F$&€ WEIRD ANYHOW IT DOESNT MATTER

Ragamaster: THATS A ULTRA GAY!!! LOOK AT ALL THE GAY POINTS YOU ARE CRACKING UP AGATHA

Ragamaster: HAH GAAAAY, AMANDA

Amanda: well guess I’m Polina now

Giantess: I’d like to got through the hoop of gay

Ragamaster: DO YOU GIANTESS? BAD NEW YOU CANT

Ragamaster: …

Ragamaster: TRY F$&€%]¥ TRY CMON B%{*#

@nobody-nexus @fenrirfoxxer

#ask blog #ragaverse #country city girl au #swap au #cyber au #mafia x coffee shop au #supernatural au #Literal Circus AU #songbird au #ragatha ringmaster AU #shitpost

[somethinggreatlyusual]

Team Bucciarati as theater actors from my circus AU.

Yeah I broke the timeline and some common sense for this alternate universe. In my world, Giorno lives in the same city with all the other JoJos, and the Italian mafia where he joined hide their dark deeds behind theatrical activities

#jojo #jjba #jojo bizzare #jojo bizarre adventure #jojo bruno #bruno buccellati #leone abbachio #jojo abbachio #giorno giovanna #jjba giorno #giorno #jjba part 5 #jjba vento auero #jjba golden wind #trish una #jjba trish #jjba narancia #narancia ghirga #pannacotta fugo #jjba fugo #guido mista #jjba mista #team bucciarati #au #alternative universe

[mistkisbiggestfan]

This is kinda AU but how the cast would react if they met a reader who already knows who they all are, because tadc is the newest biggest thing on TV. This network has been tricking people into entering tadc through these headsets (similar to sao) and people are seeing/betting/voting how long the crew could last without going insane, last one standing gets 100 million dollars (Kinger and Gangle are the top two people vote/bet to most likely abstract next, while Jax is a fan favorite character) I guess the reader could be an activist who was against the show the network wanted to silence so they put them in tadc too

TADC Cast x Gn! Reader

Tadc Cast x Gn! Reader

A/n: Hey took a lil break but I'm back on the grind! REQUESTS FOR TADC ARE OPEN!!

Summary: You were an activist against a network that runs TADC (which is a gameshow), but now you're stuck with the people you were trying to help Words: 1774 Request: Yes

Chaos. 

But I think we all know that already.

You popped out in the main circus area just a few weeks after Pomni and it was not great. 

Somehow you kept your memory in check, not forgetting anything, well, maybe not forgetting everything you knew before finding yourself trapped in the brand new show: “The Amazing Digital Circus!”. 

Not everyone knew about the shady and dark part of it though, the people or “actors” / “animated characters” were actual normal humans taken away and put into this digital h#|! for entertainment.

But out of everyone, you knew. 

You tried your best to shut down the network, do anything against this, basically cruel torture. 

But the show must go on, right? They couldn’t let someone like you, destroy their source of money.

Especially when you started to snoop around too much for your own good. 

Hands shoved into the pockets of your jacket, it was cold, so cold. Your breath turned into a cloud of fog, walking through the city, everybody looked like a bunch of serious chain-smokers.

It has been a few months since you started to fight for the rights of people who were currently stuck in “The Amazing Digital Circus!” The cruelty of a network using these people’s mental health as an attraction, to see who will break faster, disgusted you. And so you decided that you’ll do everything to help them, and to bring those greedy bastards from the company using them down.

People shoved others out of their way, shoulder hitting shoulder. Walking through such a mob was hard, especially since you were walking in an opposite direction of theirs, scoffing ladies and gentlemen looked at you in a rather disgusting manner.

And sure, you didn’t quite fit in here, with a jacket and clothes which weren’t close to the world “elegant”, men and women in suits passed by you with a raised eyebrow, a plan which consisted of fitting in failed already. 

You turned around the corner, breaking away from the tide of busy workers currently trying to reach their respectful workplace. As you walked through a dark, shady alleyway you saw some people lying on the ground, nothing out of place really.

Finally, you were met with backdoors of a big company’s building. You put your hood on and took out your ID you may or not have stolen from one of the company’s programmers when he was drunk, not your fault, he should have been more careful. 

As you walked through, you were met with a harsh and confusing environment, across the hall you spotted people who were very different from the rest, at least some of them were. The programmers of the whole thing were dressed in comfortable clothes – no dress code included them. 

Before the escalators door shut, you managed to stick your foot, jamming the doors and getting in, a girl turned to you, visibly surprised. – Hey, who are you? – She asked, mumbling tiredly.

You felt your palms sweating a bit, they weren’t supposed to realize something was off so early on. But you had to play apart somehow, clearing your throat as you spoke, you said – Oh, I’m a new programmer here! It’s my first day.

She raised her eyebrow but didn’t question you, and just as her co–worker was about to ask you something, the escalator’s door opened, you speed walked away, but not before noticing the girl from moments prior talking to a security guard and pointing in your vague direction. 

Shit, she had noticed your ID, or more likely, the fact the ID wasn’t yours. You had to move fast, and so you did. Walking along the corridor you noticed a room which differed from others. Looking away in both directions of the hall, you didn’t notice anyone, the way was clear. Your sweaty palm of your right hand rested on the doorknob, and as you pushed, the door creaked. 

The interior was entirely white, now, with the passage of time, white walls were tinted yellow, giving off an unsanitary look, the tiles were cold, you felt it even through your boots. And there it was – the closet full of documents that would shut this company down, and hopefully, save the people stuck in that TV show or whatever it was. 

You ramaged through the endless pages full of protocols, data and worthless information till you found the thing you were out for, a file with every single piece of information not redacted out. The only copy that existed. You shoved the paper into your backpack and turned to leave, getting away as far as you could now. 

Getting out of the room was terrifying, a sense of panic filled your body and overwhelmed you, pulling the hood over your face harder, you turned to walk out of the hall – towards the escalator. But during your flight, you bumped into something, one of the security guards. Stumbling backwards you gazed up in terror, before trying to run away. 

Unfortunately, the security guard grabbed you by the backpack effortlessly, trying to get away, you scratched at him with your nails. The only thing you remember prior to getting tased was other people walking towards you two. After that, you woke up as one of the new players of this hellish game you were trying to save them all from.

When you woke up, you panicked – of course – but not because you couldn’t remember anything, because you did remember, you panicked because now there was no way of you helping those people.

As you looked around dazzled, you knew all of the people there beforehand – Jax, Ragatha, Kinger, Zooble, Gangle, Caine and the new person – Pomni.

Looking down you saw how unhuman you have become, oh god, the feeling of static filling you instead of blood was too much.

Before you could say a world, Caine jumped in front of you. 

“⊹HELLO DEAR!! WELCOME TO THE AMAZING DIGITAL CIRCUS!!!⊹” “No #u@k!ng way…”

Caine then proceeded to tell you how swearing is not accepted by the guidelines. 

But you knew all of that already, so you pushed forward, looking at everyone else. 

The thing you used to watch on TV, fight against, was now your reality. 

Then your eyes were caught on Kinger and Gangle, poor souls. People watching this whole thing thinking it’s just a show, maybe a really clever animation, voted them to be most likely to abstract soon. 

Jax walked over to you, even though your avatar was quite tall, almost taller than everyone, he tried to use you to lean on his elbow. – We get new stuff already? It hasn’t been two weeks since Pomni got here! 

Oh god how you hated that man out of all people, this asshole was a fan favorite. 

“Eat $h!t and d!e Jax.” 

Silence. 

You were met with silence and a lot of terrified looks from everyone in the main area. 

Even Caine stood there bewildered. 

“How did you know my name…?”

“Eh,, I’m good at guessing things..?” 

“⊹OH WELL!! WEIRD THINGS ASIDE, LET ME TOUR YOU ALONG THE AMAZING DIGITAL CIRCUS {trade mark, all copyrights reserved}!!!!!!⊹” 

You looked up at him, confused. “Oh no need, I think I’m good.” 

Again, that was weird af. Caine stood there for a second calculating a good answer lmao.

Yeah the first meeting was rough, they were all very much weirded out. Bubble liked you though!

But that was because of another slip up you made. “So like, where is Bubble..?” That was def the wrong dialogue option because you can swear (not really tho) that Caine mumbled: How did they know who Bubble is..? 

And out of everyone, you knew only one person would believe your crazy rambling for now, someone as desperate as you – Pomni. 

So, one time, you took her by the arm, to a place you knew had no cameras, no one recording your conversation for content, and you told her about the fact that there has to be an exit here, that you remember everything, and that this is all a game for Caine and “the people outside”.

After you’re done, you already can tell that this was a bad idea. Her eyes went blank, with dark scribbles for pupils. 

You huffed in annoyance and partial sympathy. – Just forget it Pomni, I’ll figure something out.. – The last part was more for you than her, when you started to walk away, you felt her run beside you, catching up. – Wait! What the h#|! do you mean!?? Who are the “people outside”!?! – She shouted before you tackled her and shushed her. 

– Look, I explain this all once it’s safe to do so, now just act like you always do, nothing happened here. – You said before walking along, playing a part in this sick game. If someone told you about this beforehand, you would be on the other side of the continent right now.

And as you left her be, you knew that her mental health wasn’t well before all this and now it must’ve dropped to an all time low. Oh well, you’ll explain it to her later, once it’s safe. 

You tried to slowly ease people into the idea that this was a TV show, a game. They all thought you were just another madman, like many before and many that will be here after. 

Pomni seemed slightly hesitant, and once you started to help her look for exit, she was onboard with you. 

Meanwhile people watching the game were having a blast with you as a new cast member, because of course, the secret that you know it’s a game got out and was now known by everyone (except for the TADC cast ofc).

So seeing you struggle in convincing them was funny. 

You and Jax developed a funny dynamic in the meantime, it consisted of you telling them it's a game, Jax saying something like “Yeah, whatever helps you sleep at night.” And you two started to argue.  

Out of everyone you didn’t mind swearing him out even if it was censored.

Pomni asked you about what you remember and you told her (almost) everything, like the fact that people vote on who they think will abstract, or even bid money on that. And the fact that Jax is the favorite, which makes her confused because why do people like a f#c(!ng @$$hole like him??

You soon had to adapt into this thing, trying to keep yourself and others sane.

And as you tried to figure out something to help you all, you couldn’t help but grow attached to the people around you. 

#requests open #request #please request #tadc pomni #x reader #pomni #ragatha #tadc #jax #kinger #zooble #caine #pomni x reader #tadc x reader #jax x reader #tadc jax #tadc ragatha #tadc caine #caine x reader #gangle

[hidden-under-lock-and-key]

Danny Drake

Okay so like adopted Danny AU BUT it's not the Bats that adopt Danny. At least not at first.

The Drakes see how the media reacted to Bruce Wayne taking in the circus boy and the street kid and decide to get in on some of that media frenzy. Not like they will be home enough to see the child anyway.

Cue in a recently orphaned Danny Fenton Contemplating how his life came to this. Being adopted by negligent billionaires was hardly the worst outcome how could have gotten. He even got a little brother out of it! A 9-year-old whose hobbies include, photography, hacking and following vigilantes around the city streets of the crime capital of the world.

#danny phantom #dp x dc prompt #dp x dc #danny fenton #au #tim drake #kid!tim drake #older brother danny #dp #crossover

[nobody-nexus]

❌ANALOG AU MASTERPOST!❌

-Analog AU is a Digital Circus AU where it takes place in the year of 2003 and a woman named Paloma Shutnik finds a bunch of notebooks and VHS tapes within a local thrift shop that was in her city, so she decided to buy them for her collection. However, little did she know that finding these would result in her learning more about the world then what she was prepared for-

CW: This AU will content blood, gore, death, torture, cosmic horror, body horror, scopophobia, and other similar elements. Be warned!

(Under the keep reading are the designs, and general information!)

Entities: The names of the creatures that are beyond normal human standards. From tendrils controlling old machinery, to wraith chess pieces, these creatures aren't the normal for life on Earth. Within Abel's notes, there's a total of four different types of Entities to encounter:

Of course, the entities are always taller then the average human. The normal height is about 2.1 to 2.4 meters (7 to 8 feet tall), and the tallest ever recorded was 9.7 meters (32 feet) from end to end

================================================

(The blank for the reference sheet)

The text font I use for this AU is the Chiller Font ^^

And, of course, some answers to potential questions:

(The Influencer originally belongs to @ask-the-rag-dolly)

I hope you enjoy this AU- cause oh god it took me SO LONG to remaster this. This is one of the AUs I wanna see people enjoy the most cause I have a special place in my heart for this kinda stuff. If you've made it to the end, I hope you have a fantastic day ^^

#the amazing digital circus #amazing digital circus #the digital circus #digital circus #tadc #pomni #tadc pomni #pomni tadc #ragatha #tadc ragatha #ragatha tadc #jax #tadc jax #jax tadc #gangle #tadc gangle #gangle tadc #zooble #tadc zooble #zooble tadc #kinger #tadc kinger #kinger tadc #caine #tadc caine #caine tadc #au #tadc au #analog au #the condemned digital archives

[holybibly]

Divine Rosa  ❢ot8xreader❣ 

❣ Pairing: yandere!otx8 x reader ❣ Genre: Dark Romance, vampire au, angst, horror, yandere au, smut ❣ Summary: The moth always pours itself into the flame; what a pity that in the end it burns out. After the tragic death of her sister, MС tries to find answers to the questions she left behind. This leads her to a gated cottage town known for its luxurious rose gardens. In addition, there are also these mysterious men who manage all the affairs in the city. Too sweet, too helpful, too intrusive, and too in love. ❣ WARNING: only!18+ Themes of death, suicide, severe depression, stalking, blood, yandere behavior. ❣ Disclaimer: I don't support yandere behavior, stalking, or religious imposition. Themes include violence, obsession, possessiveness, and emotional or psychological manipulation. This book is intended solely for entertainment purposes.

English is not my native language, so if you see any mistakes, please let me know.

Published on AO3 like FleurRi

❣ Prologue: Roses scarlet like blood ❣

 Every story has a beginning: a magical, inexplicable moment—an elusive contact between reality and dreams. When thoughts emerge from the edge of consciousness, a stream of colorless letters appears on the parchment of our fate, eventually becoming an event. Life's intersections, fragments of various plots, are continuously repeated, lost, or deliberately forgotten. They are like unwritten melodies; the echo of their angelic voices follows us through life, like the bright tent of a wandering circus that incessantly makes noise. is full of tinsel, and raves with dreams.

  There are millions of them. No. Billions, like the sleeping stars, sway peacefully on the sky-blue wire; their scattered light tells the wayward souls the way in the velvet folds of the night's darkness. These are our memories. Some are dazzlingly bright, as fresh as summer breezes, while others are barely flickering, covered in the marble ashes of time and a diamond crumb of emotion. And they all live so far away and at the same time prohibitively close together, there, in the labyrinth of the underground sky and on the endless roads of the blood rivers, where it is impossible to find them: in our memory.

  Just as a pebble thrown into the ocean sinks into the murky depths, so does memory. Drowning into the viscous muddy depths without a bottom, in that rich and uncharted area that we call “oblivion,” it sinks in time. And few of us have been given the opportunity to preserve living images of memories of the feelings we have ever experienced: to drown in the bittersweet water of sorrow and joy; to fill our consciousness to the brim, like a vessel with golden honey, with the feelings of pain and keen passion, and to die. Die happy. The greatest privilege of all.

  Seconds, minutes, days, and years—colorful fragments of time; sharp crumbs scattered under our feet. Unlike us, those who plunge into eternal sleep, our memories that have insidiously dissolved in ink in our blood will not disappear. They fear death, flee from it, and hide in the thick of the earth that blossoms with fluttering glass, forget-me-nots and drunken petunias that, in their intoxicating happiness, kiss the eyelashes of the blind God. You hear them whisper, “I’ll never forget you…”

  My story begins with an innocent question that I’m sure you’ve heard more than once: “Do you like roses?”

  Once upon a time, I would have answered, "Yes, I love roses." But, as it turns out, all our words are followed by consequences, and small rosy spikes can be much more dangerous than they seem at first glance, just like in the fairy tales that we were told in childhood.   You know, there are things that we might call fatal: people who decide other people’s lives as long as they reach out to them like they're God. And then there are the flowers, which keep the mysteries tenebrous and ancient.   I'm almost a hundred years old, maybe more. I should start my story right now; this is the perfect moment.

  I will tell you about who I once was and who I am now. I will tell you about love, which is akin to obsession, and the death of her faithful friend. I will also tell you about the people, ghosts, or maybe illusions that were around me. They were with me once…   Now, there are others, but they’ll be in my story later. They will come into my life with a chorus of angelic voices; the sound of a heavy autumn downpour, and the pretentious solemnity of death. Yeah, they’ll be there, though, if you think about it, they were always there, from my first breath to my last breath, by my side.   But I’m forgetting what’s important.   I have to tell you about the roses, and only about them.

· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·

Mina's long hair shimmered like luxurious silk under the early morning light. Bloody strands fell in curled doll curls onto her bare shoulders, as if in Baroque paintings. The lush blossoms of white roses woven together in her hair made her look like the ancient Greek goddess of spring.   Her appearance has always been astonishing, blatantly perfect rather than real, but that was sometime in the past. Now she was like a pale ghost of herself, a blurry reflection on a black surface of water on a moonlit night. The only thing that reminded her of her former beauty was her hair, which remained perfectly groomed and scarlet, like blood. Oh yeah, there are still roses.  These flowers… there was something unnatural about them, something otherworldly. Each petal was painfully perfect, as if made of satin. But the flowers were real; they were alive and breathing and too demanding. It seemed that just because they wanted this, Mina could wear them in her hair. It was their choice, not hers.  “Do you like roses, Rosa?” · · • • • ✤ • • • · ·

This is the moment when my life changed forever. If I had known that this innocent question would be the beginning of my end, but can this be called the end? Would my answer have been different?

  I’ve thought about it a thousand times. Over and over again, I played this scene like a broken record, crossed my answer out of the script, wrote a new one, and made comments and footnotes, but…   But the answer was the same. I couldn’t change anything; it was destined. Much later, when I fall asleep in a warm bed, I will feel a gentle kiss on my closed eyelids and hear San’s angelic voice whisper in my ear that fate is never wrong. That they would find me or that I would come to them does not matter; in the end, we would still be together in life and in death. In eternity.

  I’ll come back to that later, I promise. In the meantime, I’ll continue. · · • • • ✤ • • • · ·

“They’re beautiful, Mina, but I don’t like them anymore.”  I sounded terribly rude from the outside, and I could see Mina’s eyes filled with tears, as if I had slapped her.

 “But Rosa!” Mina reached out her pale arms to me. “Look how perfect they are; don’t you care about their beauty? Doesn’t your heart beat faster when you look at them? O Rosa, these flowers are special; they never wilt.” She shook her head, as if confirming her words. “Yeosang gave them to me before I left” Her long, thin fingers reaching for the white rosebuds in her hair. “I want to give you one.” Hooking the flower, Mina gently pulled it out of her curls and stretched it towards me. I didn't have the desire to accept her gift; something in her behavior and her voice caused me anxiety. And there was this name: Yeosang. It wasn’t the first time I heard it, but it was a long time ago, and I still remember that Mina mentioned others with that name: Hongjoong, San, and Mingi. They sounded familiar to me as a song once learned by heart. She pronounced them in a special way: with a gentle intonation and an exciting euphoria. As if it had been repeated countless times at the same completely new to her.  All I could hear was the echo of that song, which came along with those names in the conversation. It was an ominous echo, like an impending, inevitable storm. Mina was still holding out a rose, and I looked at her hands. Arms with a faint web of blue veins that looked like dried stems of faint flowers. For some reason, I came up with the idea of sirens holding out their hands to pirates while their voices led them into the welcome embrace of death. Did they look like Mina’s hands now?

I remember these hands weaving long pearl threads into my hair during festivals. I remember the feeling of intertwined fingers as Mina led me down the dark corridors of my grandmother's old house. I remember them gently wiping my tears when I was rubbing my feet until I bled in ballet class.

I remember the touch of those hands… I know him. These cold fingers that so carefully hold the snow-white flower no longer belong to my sister. Their touch changed, becoming foreign and distant, as did the mysterious land where these perfect, never-fading roses grew.

Didn’t that sound like a fairy tale? Just in our history, there has been no magic mirror, no Queen-Witch whose crown shines like a star, and no apple full of poison, but there is a coffin of shimmering crystal, and a prince that sleeps in it. Of course, there are also roses—thousands of roses.

“Rosa” Mina turned to me again. “Please take them; you will surely love them. Just try to feel them…”

She put a flower in my hands. The drops of nectar froze on the wax petals, and the first rays of the dawn sun made them sparkle like diamonds. “This variety is special.” Her voice sounded soft. “It's called the Deva-Rosa. I want to show you where they grow. It’s so beautiful. I want you to come with me, Rosa. We’ll be there together, you and me.” Mina smiled dazzlingly, but something was wrong with that smile. The once-sensual kiss lips were painfully curved, the corners awfully lifted, like the forever-frozen smile of a Venetian mask, and the warm pink shade was gone.

I was always jealous of her lips. They were so tender, plump, and enticing. All her features attracted attention, but it was her lips that made Mina's beauty unique.

She shone like the sun, easily becoming the center of everyone's attention—a beautiful white swan. The main heroine of the story. 

Then there was me, only a shadow of her perfection—gloomy and pale as the moon, the complete opposite of the burning heat and the sexuality of my sister. Unlike Mina's, my features were not sensual and breathtaking; no, they were old-fashioned, like those of a porcelain doll. I didn’t find myself ugly or unattractive; just ordinary. One of a hundred million. The classic tragic heroine of a Gothic novel, someone like me, doesn’t make it to the finale.

Now looking at Mina, I can no longer see her life; her fire has almost been extinguished, leaving embers smoldering. And only her hair, like a burning sunset, was the only bright spot in her appearance. They crimson her white dress like blood rivers in the snow. 

 “Rosa, come with me.” The touch of her hands was icy and gave me a nasty shiver. It wasn’t Mina anymore. “Let's go, please. We can admire roses together. We can be together, Rosa. Remember what we promised each other when we were kids? Forever.”   Mina leaned towards me with her whole body, completely trespassing into my space, and with her intimacy came the suffocating, sugary smell of roses. It was a thick, enveloping aroma that instantly sat in the lungs. I thought that if I breathed it in deeper, these strange, unnatural flowers would sprout in my veins, intertwine with my bones, and create a new home for themselves in my body.

 “No!” I exclaimed, pushing Mina away from me. “I don’t want that, Mina. I don’t want you or those freaking roses in my life.”

  Suddenly on my feet, I took a few steps away from the pale Mina, who was staring at a rose that had fallen to the ground. Her posture was as vulnerable as that of a wounded animal, and her limp arms reached for the flower, which, surprisingly, began to darken and fade, touching the ground.   In her eyes, once radiant with happiness and dreaming, stood tears, and her lips began to tremble. It was as if a child whose beloved toy had been mercilessly abused had fallen to her knees, picked up a dying bud, and, in despair, pinned it to her lips.

“How can you be so cruel, Rosa?” Mina whispered, her lips gently touching the petals. “You hurt them; it breaks their heart. Can’t you just accept their love? Accept the roses?” She continued to kiss the petals.

 “What are you talking about, Mina? Whose love should I accept?” I asked cautiously. Her behavior began to frighten me.

 “You must give yourself to them, Rosa; I must give you to them.” Mina ignored my question, methodically kissing a faded flower. His dead petals began to fall away, slowly, baring his heart. “O Rosa, the rose is a rose; the rose is a deva; the deva is a rose; is a rose.”

 “Mina!” I called her by her name in an alarm. The entire situation had me in a state of primitive terror.   Mina began slowly swaying from side to side in time to your words, all the while continuing to say, “Rose is a rose, the rose is a deva.” It was meaningless, like the ravings of a madman.  The words were repeated in an endless circle, like a prayer or a ritual chant. Mina’s voice grew louder, higher, and higher until it broke, and abruptly she stopped all movement, standing there like a graceful statue.

  Once I admired her every move; now I want to cover my eyes so I never have to see her again.   What happened after became the most traumatic thing in my life. I can never forget it, no matter how much I want it. It seemed to be imprinted on my eyelids, and even after closing my eyes in my sleep, I couldn’t get rid of those memories.

  Her movements were fleeting, like the wings of a butterfly. Here she is before me, tense and waiting, and then her throat crosses a ragged line, and blood rushes through her body like a waterfall.

  Eyes shining from tears are wide open and so resemble smooth black pearls, and lips are opened as if waiting for a kiss.   For a second, Mina's body stretched like a thin string and then softened, falling on the grass.   I heard someone start screaming; the sound was so deafening and heartbreaking that I wanted to curl up in a ball and cover my ears with my hands, so I couldn’t hear.

  I found myself screaming. I needed to call for help; I had to call an ambulance, and I had to try to help her. Put my arms around her neck and cover her gaping red velvet wound.

  But I was yelling about something else instead.   My name is not Rosa; you hear me, Mina!   I am not her. · · • • • ✤ • • • · ·

I awoke in a frenzy, sweating profusely and with a wildly pounding heart from an endlessly recurring nightmare.

 This dream has haunted me for months since Mina’s funeral. Night after night, I have lived this sunrise over and over again. I didn’t like morning anymore; I started avoiding sunlight and hiding in the velvet folds of the night, sharing my loneliness with the darkness. I made the moon my friend, and the stars my silent witnesses.

  My memory is folded paper, folded a thousand times. Sometimes, I want to unwrap it, but not completely: open the brittle edges of the fragile sashes, smooth out the folds and creases with my fingers, spread out the time sequence. Unwrap it just a little, and then fold again, mixing letters and days, reality and dreams. I never want to open the pages where the memories of that morning are stored. Every time I get almost to the end, moments before the final, I run away to the safety of happy days.

  I try to come up with a new ending to this story, a different ending, but the dream comes to me like a cat, gently calling me into its embrace, and I find myself again in a place I don’t want to be.

  It’s early in the morning, and the sun is just rising above the horizon, shimmering like a limitless purple-pink ocean.

 In Mina’s crimson hair are snow-white roses, and her dress looks like an intricately woven ruffle and lace. Her pale hands holding flowers, her puffy lips in a painful smile, and her bare feet—the ground must be cold since it was the middle of October.  Her blood… and the roses.   And if it were possible to personify hatred and death, then for me, it would be roses.

  I hated and despised these flowers with all my heart. They brought only sorrow and gloominess into my life. The beautiful symbol of mourning solemnity.   They started it. They ended it all.

· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·

I was sixteen when Mina first called me Rosa. One January afternoon, she came home with a basket of the most gorgeous flowers I’ve ever seen in my life. Scarlet like the blood of a rose, they were magnificent and perfect. From that day on, I became Rosa. Why did Mina start calling me that? She never spoke.   But she completely forgot my real name. For the whole world, I was now Rosa.   After this case, every day in our small apartment, the roses became more and more numerous, until every inch of free space was filled with scarlet buds. Their smell was suffocating, thick, and sticky like honey. It is absorbed into the skin, hair, and dissolved in the blood. It made me dizzy and nauseous, and I could taste it on my tongue with every breath.   But it wasn’t just a smell. It was a color that screamed “red,” like blood itself. It poured over our house, coloring the entire apartment in a disturbing shade.

  After that, every day in our house, the roses became more and more numerous until they filled all the surrounding space.

  Soon, they became so numerous that our house looked like a tomb filled with scarlet petals hanging from the ceiling. We've been arranging here with all honors, breathing in a haze as imperceptible as rose-scented mist. 

  In all the time I lived there, not a single flower withered. It was frightening and exciting at the same time. Day followed night, and night gave way to day; but no petal lost its pristine beauty, and no bud bowed its heavy head in sorrow. There was not a single bouquet that would dilute this velvet sea with its mourning black.

  And if that did happen, Mina cried long and hard over these flowers and blamed herself for not saving them. At night, I heard the sound of her apologies and her fanatical prayers. 

  Whether she prayed to God or to the Devil, I couldn't tell. I'll find out for whom these prayers were intended many years later.

  Roses were always sent with a postcard and a box of expensive chocolates with some intricate filling. The box was necessarily in the form of a heart. The signature was also one; once the unchanged calligraphic handwriting deduced only one phrase, “For you,”

  Mina never told me who gave her these magic flowers or why the roses didn’t wither.

  I tried to ask her these questions several times, but she only brushed them off, throwing her long hair from one shoulder to the other and angrily declaring, “You must love them; you don't need to know more.”

 Mina also dyed her hair scarlet, like roses.

  I couldn’t take it anymore. Constantly surrounded by these flowers was unbearable, and one day I packed up all my things and moved in with a friend, leaving Mina alone in her regal rosary.

  My first night away from home, away from the roses and Mina, I couldn’t sleep. I tossed and turned anxiously in bed hour after hour; but the dream never came, and then the phone rang. Mina called. Crying, she begged to come home, and when I asked her why, she barely whispered, “The roses are wilted.”

  I hung up, and Mina never called me again. Two years had passed. My life had changed, and I think my luck had smiled. I found wonderful friends who were eccentric and bright. I had a great and caring boyfriend, and the internship at ballet school was promising. Everything worked out perfectly, and there were no more roses.

 Until my twentieth birthday, a huge bleeding bouquet of scarlet roses tied with topaz-embroidered ribbon appeared in my new apartment. The candy box was heart-shaped, and the caption read, “For You.”

  I burned the bouquet, threw out the chocolate, and tore the note apart, and blew it to the wind.

  No one was supposed to see or know.   Even me.    Exactly eight days after these flowers appeared, I got a call from former neighbors in the apartment complex Mina was still living in.   I was urged to come and deal with the situation; the smell of rot and death was unbearable, and Mina didn't open the doors or answer the phone.   I opened the door with my key. Opening it wide, I crossed the threshold and could not contain a short scream. All the once-luxurious roses had rotted, dripping thick, stinking jugs on the floor and accumulating in gleaming poisonous lakes. Every corner of the space was occupied by large vases with black velvet buds and tall candles. After my move, Mina got rid of all the furniture, leaving only the big bed, which was now covered with dried stems strewn with thorns.

 This place was like a grave — cold and dark — where my sister was supposed to rest.   Going deeper, I found no hint of Mina's presence. Absolutely nothing.     Only putrid roses and an empty heart-shaped box.

  Mina was gone. For a whole year, I tried to find her without success. Old friends, distant relatives, acquaintances, and any other connections she might have ever had—I checked everything, but there was nothing to help me find her. It’s like she never existed.

 In the two years we’ve been apart, I didn’t know anything about her. Mina didn’t call, and when I tried to contact her, she would reply with a short message, always the same: "Roses have wilted; come back." just like the night I left her.

  All Mina had ever thought about since that unfortunate January day were these sinister roses.

  The police began an investigation. Two years after her disappearance, Mina became officially missing.

  And a year after that, she showed up at my door in the twilight of the fall morning, barefoot, in a sophisticated lace dress with a rose crown on her head. From the Mina that I knew, all that remained was her hair—long, silky, and crimson like blood and roses.

  She still kept calling me Rosa, calling me out, and promising that we’d be happy together. That it will be only us, forever. She promised to show me where these strange flowers bloom, which she called the Deva-Rose, although these were not her words, but those of someone distant and unfamiliar to me, Hongjoong.

  And then...then Mina died. The dawn painted her body in pink shades, flooded the grass with sparkling gold, and dyed the white roses of her crown scarlet. She slit her throat. Ragged a sharp spike into it. As it turned out, even the tiniest rose spikes were deadly.   It was a nightmarish and, at the same time, majestic end to her story.   The image of Mina haunts me in dreams even now—this distant gaze in her pearly eyes and a complete absence of fear of death. No, Mina wasn't afraid. She welcomed death as an old friend, graciously opening her arms.

  It was her exodus.   I remember screaming loudly. Blood thundered in my ears, and tears flowed in an endless crystal stream. I screamed that my name wasn’t Rosa; that I wasn’t her, and never would be.

  Her funeral was truly a royal one. Rain and thunder rattle in the sky, as if raising a toast in her honor. The flat haloes of the black umbrellas swayed peacefully as the guests made their sorrowful speeches.

  Mina seemed to fall asleep, dressed in an old-fashioned wedding dress, lying there like a princess, drowning in thousands of roses.   The flowers were brought at dawn. Their color was deep and dark, as if every petal was filled with the gloaming of the night. They mourned with me.   But I knew better. It wasn’t the end; it was the beginning.  Death follows life in an endless cycle of rebirth. When one flower fades, plant a new one.  Back home that night, I found a black envelope at my door, sealed with a monogram wax seal.

  It lacked an address and the sender's signature. The message was clear and concise. "I live for you, my Rosa."

· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·   I went to the window and opened the curtains with my newfound determination. It’s time to stop being afraid and run away. Whatever it is, I’ll find out what happened to Mina. Let her start it all, but I’ll be the one to finish the story.   The last surviving girl.

· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·   How naive I was then, how stupid. The moth always flies to the flame, attracted by the warm fluttering light; he himself goes to his death.

I was that moth. Without realizing it, I came to my inevitable fate, which has been waiting for me for centuries, maybe longer. Their hands have stretched out since the darkest times, when the light didn't exist, and the Devil was as real as you and I. At that time, everyone knew his face, felt his hot breath on his skin.   The story I’m going to tell you isn't going to be bright and sweet; we’re going to go down to hell and come back. I'll take you through the dark woods to the horrors of uncharted lands where barefoot priestesses rock their sharp teeth in alluring smiles. I will take you to the castle where the prince rests in a crystal coffin and make you drink wine that tastes like blood.

  Now I have to ask you, "Are you afraid of the dark and what’s hidden in it?"   But my question is, "Love, do you like roses?"

#ateez x reader #hongjoong x reader #seonghwa x reader #yunho x reader #yeosang x reader #san x reader #mingi x reader #wooyoung x reader #jongho x reader #ateez yandere #ateez #hongjoong #seonghwa #yunho #yeosang #san #mingi #wooyoung #jongho #ateez ot8 #ateez fanfic #ateez imagines #yandere ateez #ateez fic #ateez smut