#how will we defeat dnf you ask

[sebscore]

if you feel comfortable doing so, how do you think the grid would react if gzd was going through a rough patch and she’s being like really quiet and in her head?

i’m kinda slipping back into this era and i just need the grids comfort

THIS IS ALL I NEVER WANTED

pairing: lando norris x driver!reader / daniel ricciardo x driver!reader / sebastian vettel x driver!reader / lewis hamilton x sebastian vettel

warnings: reader feels defeated and is ready to give up. swearing. mention of sexism.

author’s note: the comfort fic is finally hear, lmao :) sorry that it took me this long, got caught up with gentle hit, but it’s here now !!

masterlist

• • • • • • •

''That's the car of Y/L that goes into the gravel- another DNF for the young driver.'' Crofty commented as he watched her retire from the fight for the third consecutive race. 

Meanwhile in the car, Y/N's radio was bombarded by her engineer. ''We're so sorry, Y/N. A podium was possible, but we'll keep pushing harder for next time. We'll debrief.'' Marco apologised, frustration and guilt audible in his voice. 

''Understood.'' The indifferent tone came as a surprise to the team and viewers, but it was understandable as the driver hadn't been able to finish a race in over a month. 

The ride back to the paddock was humiliating to say the least. The pitiful looks from fans, the judging eyes of critics and the loud whispers didn't do much to brighten the dark cloud that was her mind. 

Her post-race interviews also weren't a great help to her already declining confidence. 

''It's the third consecutive DNF for you- how are you managing to stay positive and to not lose hope in the car?'' Nathalie asked her, sounding compassionate. 

Y/N shrugged her shoulders. ''Nothing is positive at all,'' she sarcastically chuckled, ''I think I'm doing everything right and then it all goes wrong for some reason.'' 

''I'm working hard with the team, but it doesn't seem like it's paying off at the moment. I'm just very disappointed and I- yeah, well, I hate the car.'' 

The reporter in front of her wasn't used to the visible pessimism of the female driver. Y/N was known for her cheerful and up-beat character, always open for a chat and ready to take on any challenge. That figure seemed to be missing at the moment. 

''I hope it gets better for you, Y/N. You're an amazing driver and I wish you good luck for the next race weekend, thank you so much for talking to us.'' Nathalie rounds up the interview before signalling to her cameraman to stop the filming. 

Y/N was about to leave, but a gentle grab of her wrist stopped her. ''Hey, darling- don't let this get you down, alright? There are many people rooting for you here, me included, and we all want to see you do well. You have incredible talent and we know these lasts results aren't a reflection of that.'' 

The Sky Sports presenter had a soft spot for the young woman ever since her arrival to the paddock. Nathalie has always been amazed by Y/N's ability to shrug off all the sexist remarks and to prove the people that doubt her wrong. 

''Thanks, I appreciate it.'' The soft smile on Y/N's face was a fake one, even a child could spot that. However, her words and gratefulness were genuine and that's all that mattered to Nathalie. 

The driver moved quickly between the different journalists, not in the mood for the long and lovely chats that would have happened had she crossed the chequered flag. ''If one more person reminds me of all the DNF's, I'm going to knock myself out with one of these microphones.'' She mumbled to her team's press officer, making the woman laugh but also look at Y/N with a bit of concern. 

Luckily for her, all the media responsible people must have listened to her prayers and went easy on her- maybe sensing her agitation and worsened mood. She and her press officer moved back to the team's hospitality, where a dreaded team briefing would take place. 

''Obviously these aren't the results that we want. We want wins, podiums and points.'' Her team principal started off the meeting, standing at the head of the table. ''It is clear that changes need to be made, whether that be the car, the strategy or the driver even.'' The eyes of the team shifted from their leader to the young woman staring daggers at him. 

''It's not my fault that the fucking engine blows up or that another drivers decides he wants to play bumper cars.'' Y/N defended herself, not seeing why she should be replaced. 

He shook his head. ''I didn't say it was your fault, but we have to look at all the options and that includes you, Y/N.'' The man clarified, taking a deep breath. 

The woman rolled her eyes, causing Marco to send her a stern look that said ''Please, don't make this harder on yourself.'' She got his sign and sat up straight in her chair, figuring her slumping didn't give off a great impression. 

The briefing continued for another hour, going over all the alternatives they had and all the work they had to do while waiting for the next race weekend. ''Alright- thank you, everyone! Have a great break.'' The team principal dismissed the team. 

Y/N was the first one to get up and leave, debating if she would slam the door, but she didn't want a Kevin x Guenther moment with her boss. 

By the time she was on her way to her hotel, most fans had gone home themselves and the paddock was occupied by crew members cleaning the place up. Y/N had a slow pace while walking, not in any hurry to leave the circuit. 

''You're going back to the hotel?'' A voice behind her spoke up, making the female driver yelp as she didn't expect someone to walk up on her. 

Y/N turned around, Lando looking at her with a grin. ''Did I scare you?'' He laughed, finding amusement in making his friend flinch. 

''You could have been a serial killer for all I know, you idiot.'' She slapped his arm, the tension leaving her body as it was only Lando and not some creep. 

''Only on track.'' He winked. 

The young woman frowned at his action. ''Please, never do that again.'' Her feigned disgust with his wink resulted in a light push from her friend. 

''So… you're going to the hotel now?'' Lando asked her again, not having received an answer yet. 

Y/N nodded. ''Yeah, I could use some sleep before the flight tomorrow.'' 

''You, uh, wanna take a car together to the hotel? You know- that way we're not wasting gas, I guess.'' He nervously asked, mumbling the question almost under his breath. 

''Sure,'' Y/N chuckled, ''Seb will be proud of us.'' 

They decided to take his car as she wasn't in the mood to drive anymore and Lando didn't seem to mind. She was grateful for Lando's company, at least her bad day would end on a good note. 

''Sorry about the race today, I know you could have done more.'' Despite being competitors, they were also great friends and it's not fun seeing your friends have bad results. 

Y/N sighed. ''My team- they're, uh, thinking about replacing me.'' She wanted to get her worries off of her chest and Lando bringing up the race seemed like the perfect oppurtunity for it. 

''What?'' He exclaimed, not anticipating that sentence to come out of her mouth. 

''They say they just have to think about all the changes they could make to get better results, but they've been talking an awful lot about the junior drivers so I'm just preparing myself for it.'' She clarified for him, resting her head against the window. 

Lando let her words sink in. ''They- they can't possibly do that, you're one of the best drivers on the grid.'' It came out louder than he intended, but the thought of one of his best friends not being with him on track anymore upsets him. 

''They can do that,'' she sarcastically chuckled, ''I'm impressed I lasted this long- I just know the FIA will be throwing a party now that they don't have to be feminists anymore.'' 

''What do you mean 'lasted'? You're not going anywhere, we have enough races left where you can show your true skills.'' Lando took his eyes off the road to look her in the eye, perhaps wanting her to see how serious he was. 

Y/N shrugged her shoulders, not wanting to talk about it any further. 

The car stopped in front of a red light. ''Hey,'' Lando put his hand on top of hers, ''I'm being serious. We've been racing against each other for over 10 years now- you're a good driver. You'll probably be a World Champion one day.'' 

''You really mean that?'' Her usual confident demeanour had been traded in for an insecure one, her voice coming out smaller than normal. 

He chuckled, nodding his head. ''Of course, I wouldn't lie to you.'' The gentle way he was looking at her assured her that he was in fact being serious and meant everything he said. 

''Thank you,'' Y/N turned her hand and squeezed Lando's, ''now, shut up and drive me to the hotel!'' She pushed his hand away. ''Enough of this emo shit.'' 

''This is the one time I am being nice to you and you just reject my love.'' 

''Stop being so emotional, Norris.'' 

''There she is!'' Daniel loudly announced as Y/N stepped onto the plane, his hands up in the air. 

She tiredly waved at everyone, exhausted from the lack of sleep she had gotten. The young woman groggily sat down next to her Australian colleague, Michael sitting in front of them. 

Daniel snickered at her disoriented state. ''Good morning to you, mate.'' He greeted her, his infamous bright smile on his face. 

''It's fucking early, what are you so happy about?'' She mumbled, while trying to find a good sleeping position. 

''I'm grateful that I get to live another beautiful day, Y/N! We don't appreciate our existence enough, we need to-''

''I'll be grateful for my life when you shut up and let me sleep.'' She interrupted him, closing her eyes and pulling her hat slightly over her face. 

The McLaren driver opted for another teasing comment, but he could see the obvious exhaustion she had going on and let her be, a light pat on the shoulder working as his way to say ''have a good nap''. 

About an hour later the turbulence of the plane woke her up from her much needed sleep. Y/N took her hat off and noticed Daniel still awake, scrolling on his phone while listening to music through his headphones. 

A soft push against his arm brought his attention from his device to the woman next to him, immediately smiling upon seeing that she's awake. ''Sleepyhead.'' 

The beam on his face slowly changed into a nervous frown, worrying his friend. ''What is it? The reality of life finally settled in?'' Y/N awkwardly said, trying to cheer him up. 

''No, uh, it's just that uhm interview you did with Nathalie yesterday- I watched it.'' He answered, sympathy written all over his face. 

''Oh,'' she sat up straight in her seat, ''well, you know it was just after the race so obviously I was very frustrated. You know how it is.'' The driver tried to come off as nonchalant, failing horribly. 

''Lando told me, Y/N.'' Daniel revealed, wanting her to drop the 'it's not a big deal'-act. 

She sighed. ''Oh, that little snake.'' She muttered under her breath. 

''No, I'm glad that he told me. He said he's never seen you so defeated and the way you were talking to Nathalie- you haven't given up, have you?'' Daniel had seen how her recent race results had affected her, but he wasn't aware how deep her frustrations and insecurities had settled in. 

Her silence to his question was an answer in itself. 

''You've been working your ass off since you were like what? 5-6? You're not gonna throw all of that away just because of 3 bad races, right? That's nothing like you.'' The Australian ranted, baffled over her ruined confidence. 

Y/N glanced outside her window, seeing they were high above the clouds. ''I'm not throwing anything away, it's just… my teams seems to have already made up their mind and are just waiting on the right time to tell me that someone else is taking my place.'' The young woman clarified, her words not helping Daniel's growing worries. 

''They would be fucking idiots to replace you, you know that.'' He sneered, rolling his eyes at the thought of another person driving in her seat. 

She weakly chuckled at his response, not finding much humour in the insult to her bosses. 

Daniel's shoulder gently pushed against hers. ''Hey, maybe you need to talk to Seb or Lewis, they're better at this pep-talk shit than I am.'' He suggested, figuring the two older men might have more of an influence on her. 

Y/N let his words process for a few seconds, considering seeking a listening ear in either of the world champions. ''I- I don't know, Dan. They probably have better things to do.'' 

''Like what?'' 

''I don't fucking know- planting trees, feeding Roscoe, whatever.'' She blurted out, making both of them laugh at the random activities they could be doing. 

''Just think about it, I think you'd feel a lot better after talking to one of them.'' Daniel didn't want to push her, knowing it would have the opposite effect on what he wanted for her. 

A tired smile made its way onto her face. ''I will, thank you.'' 

''Good,'' his face mirrored hers, ''and if they do replace you, they're just like Netflix.'' 

''Like Netflix?'' 

''A bunch of cunts.'' 

''I've never seen her that quiet.'' Sebastian mumbled to the Brit next to him, observing the young woman who sat slumped over in her chair. 

Lewis looked over at her, being as equally bewildered as his German colleague. ''I don't blame her, all the stuff they've been saying about her is awful.'' He whispered back. 

''What do you mean?'' Sebastian frowned. 

The Mercedes driver uncomfortably shifted in his head, leaning more towards his friend. ''People have been saying a lot of shit on social media and those fucking annoying journalists certainly don't help. Also, that interview their team principal did.'' 

Sebastian rolled his eyes at the mention. ''Hanna showed me, that was so out of line. He knows people have been wanting her out since the day she got in- shame on him for making all of that so public.'' 

Her team principal had given a quite lengthy interview over the break between the race weekends, publicising the team's problems and their possible solutions, which included a hint to a potential driver change-up. 

''None of the DNF's were even her fault, it's absolutely ridiculous.'' The slander on her name greatly upset Lewis, aware of the talent she possessed and it made him angry that there was even a chance that she might not be on the grid with them the next year. 

''I know and it has taken such a toll on her, Daniel said he talked to her, but I'm a little worried.'' The Aston Martin driver told Lewis, his puzzled look turning into one of sadness. 

The Brit scratched his voice. ''Maybe you can give her some confidence? You've known her for a long time, I'm sure she'll appreciate it.'' 

Sebastian slowly nodded his head, figuring the World Champion might be right. ''Yeah, I'll talk to her later.'' He confirmed, still watching the obvious daydreaming woman from across the room. 

The driver's briefing went on for about half an hour more, the director seeing the visible boredom on every person's face and calling it a day for everyone. 

Y/N couldn't have been more relieved that the meeting was finally over, wanting nothing more than going back to her own hospitality and figuring out ways to make the car work, and actually finish this time around. 

She was one of the last people to leave the briefing room, only George, Lewis and Sebastian walking behind her. The latter tapping her shoulder. ''Hey, haven't talked to you today.'' 

''Yeah, lots of briefings with the team, you know.'' The younger one responded, giving him a quick glance. 

''How's that going?'' 

The woman remained silent for a few moments, considering how much she should tell her mentor about the current state of her place in the team. ''Uhm, well, it's going… decent, I guess.'' Y/N muttered, trailing off. 

''Decent?'' Sebastian repeated, as if asking ''are you serious?'' 

''There are like a bunch of reporters around us, what do you want me to say?'' She replied, a defensive tone to her voice. 

The German patted her back, sensing her agitation. ''It's okay, let's discuss somewhere private.'' He calmed her down, suggesting a different place to have a conversation. 

''Okay.'' 

They opted for her personal driver's home, that being the closest space where they could talk with just the two of them. Some of her team's staff had given the Aston Martin driver some weird looks while they walked through the hospitality, but he brushed them off. 

The pair sat down on her small couch once they arrived, not much space between them. 

Y/N felt some nerves settling in her stomach as she waited for Seb to start speaking, not knowing what he was going to tell her. 

''I'm just gonna be straightforward,'' he started off, ''you can't continue with this attitude, cause you're only setting yourself up. You are a great driver, Y/N. We all have our off weeks, we're not perfect.'' 

''I understand that this isn't a nice situation to be in. Trust me, this green vegetable that I'm driving isn't doing much better at the moment,'' he chuckled, making her crack a smile, ''but if there's one person that can completely turn their season around, it's you.'' 

Y/N avoided eye-contact with him, not sure how to respond to his kind and encouraging words. ''I appreciate that, Seb. I'm not giving up, it's just… very difficult and people are constantly bringing it up, and making articles and shit- that doesn't help me at all. I'm still gonna do my best, but… yeah- it's just difficult.'' 

''I know it's hard and I've heard the media has been hard on you. That's what they do and they see you as an easier target for clicks and whatnot,'' Sebastian rolled his eyes at his own mention of the media, ''But you're better than believing their words.'' 

''You are a talented driver, you have so much potential. Do you think I would have spent all these years with you if I thought you shouldn't be in F1?'' He asked her, a look on his face that told her he wanted an answer. 

The young woman timidly shook her head. ''No, you wouldn't have done that.'' 

Sebastian smiled at her response. ''See?'' He put his arm around her, pulling her closer into him. ''Whether you believe it or not, you're leading this new generation. You're a decent car away from being a World Champion, you know that right?'' 

''Did you talk to Lando? He also said that.'' Y/N nervously grinned. 

''Just accept the truth!'' The German squeezed her shoulders. ''You've proven that you can do anything. You don't want to let down all those young girls that started karting because of you, right? What message would it send to all of them that their role model quit, because she got bumped off the road or her car simply decided to turn itself off.'' 

''You're right,'' she sighed, admitting to herself she needed to drop the pessimistic attitude, ''I don't just owe it to myself, but also to them.'' 

Sebastian nodded along to her words, letting out a deep breath. ''I'm relieved you're seeing it, I don't like seeing you like this. It's weird not seeing you smile or making fun of the drivers.'' He smirked, patting her shoulder. 

''I guess everyone deserved an off-day, tomorrow I'll start again.'' Y/N grinned, laughing at Sebastian's reminder of her fondness to poke fun at their colleagues. 

The senior driver gave her one last squeeze and stood up from the couch, adjusting his pants. ''No more frowns, alright? You're gonna do great this weekend and you're gonna show everyone why you deserve your seat.'' 

Y/N nodded, more confident than when she first walked back into her driver's room. ''Yes, I'm gonna do my best, Seb.'' 

They bumped their fists as if to solidify it was going to be a great race weekend for them both. 

''And go easy on me tomorrow with the teasing.'' 

''I'd rather be run off the track again then let that happen.''

taglist :: @cl16version @missskid @missthem @rosesintj @evans-dejong @thehistoryone @dreamycloudsworld @alonsogirlie @muushmeg @topguncultleader @the-great-adventures-of-me @love13tter @xcharlottemikaelsonx @kiwisa @starkwlkr @nora_moon @princesselle2111 @valluvsu @thatsadsmallchild @babyyoda89 @milkbreadforlife @fxllfaiiry @hc-dutch @its-ash-not-grey @princessbetsy123 @mehrmonga @nyenye @screechingtrashkid @ahnneyong @holybatflapexpert @itsnotgray @beautycinders @rowansshit @uhhevie @revengze @nylaslife @majx00 @multi-universe21 @jaydensluv @isasalom @gentlemonsterjennie1 @appledashhh @breathinfive @lighttsoutlewis @champomiel @ooooohmicky @koufaxx @flannelforthetoads

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#f1 fic #f1 fics #f1 x reader #lando norris x reader #daniel ricciardo x reader #sebastian vettel x reader #f1 x you #f1 oc #lando norris x you #daniel ricciardo x you #sebastian vettel x you #formula 1 fic #female f1 driver

[bigsharkenthusiast]

8.  “Were you crying?” for pando please 🥺 (it's birb)

wait is this real, birb, the birb is asking me to write stuff. after all of the hours i've spent stalking your tumblr, i'm honoured.

-

Lando was quiet as he entered their hotel room. It's late and he wasn't sure if Pierre would be asleep already, and he didn't want to wake him.

He showered at the track, between the sweat and the champagne he couldn't really wait, which meant he could collapse into be almost immedaitely.

It was dark when Lando walked in, which suggested his boyfriend was asleep already. Lando slid off his shoes, and walked over to the bed, trying not to trip over all the clothes that had been dumped on the floor.

A small sniff coming from the bed made Lando frown, he squinted at the bed, seeing the vague outline of Pierre sitting on the bed.

"Hey, mon amour," Pierre said softly, and Lando could see him smile despite the darkness.

"Pierre, are you okay?" Lando asked, switching on the lamp on the besdide table. He's surprised when he saw Pierre, his eyes are red, and Lando could see the tear tracks on his cheeks, "were you crying?" He reached out and cupped Pierre's cheek, taking a seat on the bed beside him.

"I'm annoyed," Pierre said, leaning against Lando, "two races in a row, and today I don't even get to race! It's ridiculous."

Lando held him tightly. He could understand having bad races, the whole start of the season had been pretty awful. It was such a frustrating sport. When it went well you were flying, but as soon as it went badly, you began to question everything.

"I'm sorry," Lando said in a small voice, squeezing Pierre closely too him, "dnf's are the worst."

"Yeah," Pierre mumbled.

"Do you think you can sleep? How about we go for breakfast tonorrow, we've got the whole day to ourselves," Lando said, as Pierre sat up slowly.

He still look completely defeated, and it hurt to see him like that, especially when Lando knew there wasn't much he could do. He could love Pierre of course, and he did, try and make him feel a bit better, but nothing would really help until the car was performing well, until Pierre was getting good points for himself and the team.

"That sounds nice," Pierre smiled weakly, shuffling back so he was leaning against the headboard. He tugged and Lando's arm until thw younger was lying beside him, curled up in his arms, "I'm sure we can think of other things to do as well."

He leant down to kiss Lando, running his fingers through the mop of curls on top of the younger's head. His boyfriend was looking very hot, that post race glow encircling him.

"I can't wait," Lando grinned.

Pulling his jumper and socks off and dumping them on the floor, yes he was the main causer of the mess, Lando get himself under the duvet, snuggling up next to Pierre.

"I love you mon amore," Pierre whispered softly, settling himself down.

"I love you too Pear," Lando replied, "j'adore."

Pierre chuckled, "please stop speaking French."

"You love it," Lando smiled, reaching over and switching the lamp off.

Love didn't fix everything, but it sure did help, and Lando would do everything he could to make Pierre feel better, even if that meant going down to Alpine and fighting Otmar. Though he really hoped that wouldn't help, beacause Lando was very sure he couldn't do that.

"Bonne nuit," Pierre whispered into the darkness.

He felt Lando curl up against his chest, "good night."

#lando norris #pierre gasly #this was really fun to do #i hope you like it #kai's writing tag #also dont judge my french #not a language i know at all #this is all i remember from school

[sunshineduo]

FUCKO PARTY 2021: hate DNF? us too! a vote for Fucko2021 is a vote to end DNF once and for all! 💙💚

#take action. vote to end floridabaiting once and for all. #how will we defeat dnf you ask? we'll tell you on election day :] #myctblr elections #fucko 2021 #fucko party 2021

[dreamhot]

okay !! this is like a week late but i wrote out some more thoughts on xdhd and c!dnf and the cycle of misery that'll keep them apart ^_^

anon i'm sorry this took forever but hopefully you see this if you're still interested !!

a lot of waffling under the cut

/rp /dsmp

okay, so here are some thoughts. a lot of this would still need to be fleshed out in order to make sense and i’m still undecided on some stuff but this is the general concept

dxd is manhunt!dream. he defeats the ender dragon and is granted god status as a result. thing is … it means leaving his friends behind. and the thought of being immortal when george isn’t is too much for him to handle. the solution? make george into a god as well.

the hunters leave the egg behind, so dxd takes care of it instead. the ender dragon isn’t meant to respawn after death, but dxd ensures a new one is born. he needs george to defeat it, after all. that’s the only way to attain godhood.

this is where the details are a little murky, but i’m imagining something like dxd subtly luring george into returning to the end somehow and forcing him to face off against the dragon on his own - and maybe stepping in to help a bit where necessary. george deals the killing blow, meeting the requirements for godhood, but it’s wrong. functionally, they cheated. it didn’t happen correctly. so yeah, george ascends to ghd, but something isn’t right.

dxd doesn’t care - he’s too happy to have his partner back - and maybe ghd is fine for a while as well. but he’s unhappy. he didn’t ask for this. he didn’t earn it. and maybe the deity status isn’t quite foolproof when you don’t achieve it under the proper conditions.

so ghd dies. it could even be from something as simple as a mob attack. dxd doesn’t know if ghd didn’t have the power to save himself, or if he just gave up and let mortality take over. it doesn’t matter. dxd is distraught, deranged, after having put so much effort into being with george again only to lose him once more.

desperate and grieving, dxd decides the best way to give them a chance would be to start over.

he makes a new world. new players, new conditions, no access to the end. and most importantly, he creates new versions of his old self and george. it’s a clean slate and the opportunity for them to try again without the deadly constraints of the manhunt universe he came from. dxd thinks, even if he can’t have george, there can at least be a version of them that can be together.

but we all know how things go in the smp.

dxd watches as things go from peaceful to nightmarish. the griefing, the wars, the dethronement. he watches the new dream and george, for whom he worked so hard to provide a chance at a happy ending, fall apart. he watches dream get locked up and george meander off without a sense of purpose.

and dxd can’t stand it. he finally steps in. by this point, his obsession with making things right has pushed his derangement even further. whatever shreds of humanity had remained within him after ascending are slowly eroding, and it shows through his fumbled attempts to relate to this version of george. george is understandably wary - dxd has effectively forgotten how to relate to people and he’s been so distraught over his failures that it makes him lash out.

in addition, maybe gods aren’t meant to be that involved with humans. dxd’s influence and the communication through dreams triggers george’s derealisation and worsens his apathy toward the events of the smp. dxd can’t even tell how george feels about dream any more - not that he cares, because proximity to george has made dxd possessive. suddenly it’s no longer about trying to make dream and george happy. it’s now about keeping george for himself.

let’s say dream gets out. not sure how or why, but imagine he’s finally free from imprisonment. what happens when he sees george? will he act on that attachment? will george care? the trouble is that it won’t matter either way, because dxd is going to step in. george is his now, and dream is a threat.

this is another branch where i can’t decide which option i would like better. dxd could kill dream, of course. but what if there’s still some part of dxd that realises that killing dream would make george unhappy with him? so we could also entertain the thought of dxd perhaps coaxing george into doing it himself. seems unlikely, yeah, but if dxd plays up the unreality angle and gives george some sort of incentive to kill the ‘fake’ (but not actually) dream, perhaps he could be coerced into committing the act. maybe in dxd’s mind this will absolve him of guilt and allow george to see that it’s dxd who can make him happy - not the criminal who betrayed them all.

but we still don’t know george’s true alignment. if he does get manipulated into killing dream, he would recognise the reality of his actions eventually. and he could very well put the pieces together and realise that dxd orchestrated the murder. that would probably be enough to finally make george abandon all trust in dxd and be driven away for good, leaving the god alone once more.

perhaps just for funsies we can bring my other favourite theory in at this point. dxd, driven to the brink of madness by the repeated failures, goes into a blind rage and hard resets the server. no more dream, no more george, no more dream smp.

what that means for dxd’s next move is uncertain - but even if he were to try to make d&g work once more, it would still be doomed to fail. fate will continue to draw them together and then drive them apart. like star-crossed lovers but with more universal cruelty.

maybe i just like to suffer. who knows!

#smile.txt #smp crit #long post #<- it's like 1000 words u've been warned #also this is like. still very surface level cos anything more and i'd need to write an entire fic #but this is just a more fleshed out version of my other post about this lmao #I FORGOT THE RP TAGS BUT THIS IS ALL THE CHARACTERS OBV #i'll add more tags for kicks #dreamxd #georgehd #xdhd #c!dnf #dsmp

[carpedzem]

i am no longer a c!dream enjoyer

me too, I'm c!dream encourager >:)

for real tho, I'm not sure what's the tone of this ask bc word 'enjoyer' is rarely used in this part of the fandom but let me quickly list some thing that can make it better for any struggling c!dream apologists/sympathizers. OF COURSE if anyone for whatever reason decided to simply dislike c!dream that's fair, I hope you will find a new favourite character or just simply a new story to enjoy! I was there for like, 15 minutes as well yesterday sadhas

STAGED FINALE THEORY REAL OMG I'M STILL NOT OVER IT

that means that c!dream still has this big goal he wants to achieve and he was willing to sacrifice himself for it. who does that??? what's that goal? 'a big happy family'? 'normal server'? are you okay buddy?

this is how c!dnf can still w[gunshot]

c!dream and c!sapnap were so hesitate to fight :(((

even I'm truly still really confused by c!rivals, c!techno haven't opened c!dream books yet! I'm not sure if kicking c!dream out is a part of a plan (simply because I find it weird that c!techno wouldn't include c!phil, but idk) but I think he still will open them and we will see what's inside, so c!rivals will get, if not positive relationship, then at least a closure

we still don't know who the Harpocrates is!

we still don't know what's the deal with c!dream and enderboo. and why c!ranboo was in prison. and why he was on one life

c!punz working with c!dream is such a win-win, I could cry. c!punz is smart, he is one of the og8, he KNOWS c!dream plan, and he believes it is a good plan. so this plan, this goal a real good thing and c!dream isn't beyond saving OR c!punz is as evil AND THAT'S SO COOL. I want to see c!dream and c!punz committing crimes together! :D

okay this one. don't put me into troubles for this one sahahah, but all those parallels between c!dream and c!quackity. STREAMS NEXT TO EACH OTHER IN LESS OF 24 HOURS! why why why why why... it's clear pattern here. and for what, for what. i need answers

I still want to see c!dream lore vid SO BADLY I want to UNDERSTAND this man. what's the goal? why like that? there's still so so many questions

in general dreblr hit the ground very hard yesterday. and that's understandable! we lived in our bubble for months, it's not a secret, we were supporting our ideas, we want c!dream to get better (at least one wolf want to). so I think our brains skipped a bit and thought that c!dream will be better when he leaves the prison. but we were the ones who were saying constantly that he is getting worse in the prison. we were screaming and kicking and wondering how much messed up he will be after all of that. it's not a surprise that he is Like That and we know this. what's our real struggle here is that our the best bet for the place to heal was taken away. c!dream once again has no place to get better and that's really upsetting :( but we can still enjoy him being evil and sexy and oh so so smart <3

this being said - c!michael (not the piglin) enthusiasts arise! :D this can be our new place to put our hope into!

even if c!dream will never get redeemed, even if he will be the worst himself and he will be defeated and everyone will cheer - there's one thing what no one can take away from us. early days of the server are canon! c!dream used to be happy! so no matter where his history will go, it will be a tragic tale of a man who lost everything, including himself. and it is something you can sympathize with, always

#nonny #dreblr

[allywritesforfun]

{Fire pit} MCYT Vacation Series

summary: yeah just, hanging around a fire pit with a very drunk wilbur soot

includes: dream, georgenotfound, wilbur soot, sapnap, karl jacobs, philza, badboyhalo, charlie slimesicle, quackity

pairings: dnf, karlnap

word count: 1469

trigger warnings: swearing, alcohol usage, mentions of burns

regular masterlist

MCYT vacation series masterlist

“Who here knows how to get a fire started?” Dream asked.

The group held off on doing a fire night for a while. It’s not that they didn't want to do it, it’s more of the fact that they were scared to do it. The only responsible one there was Phil, but he was the only one who has experience with  a drunken Wilbur Soot. 

Tonight; however, was the perfect night. The forecast was clear, not even huge gusts of wind expected. It was ideal, everyone could sit in a circle and not have smoke filling their lungs. 

Dream took it upon himself to get out all of the chairs while Quackity carried the wood from the truck, making multiple trips. Bad offered to help him, but Quackity talked himself up about how strong he is and wanted to prove a point.

“I’ve made a fire before for a Mr. Beast video,” Karl mentioned. “I could give it a go.” 

“That atta boy, Karl!” Dream patted him on the back. “Everything that you need is somewhere out here. I’m sure Sap will get you anything.”

Karl looked over at Sapnap, who was in a bit of a conundrum. He was trying to help Charlie set up the bug net around the area. Dream got a huge one off of  Amazon that would make a huge tent but leave enough room to move around. Charlie was working on getting the stakes in the ground and spacing while Sapnap... was in a wrestling match with the net. 

Charlie gave him one simple task: unravel the net. Sapnap got as far as taking the pin out that held it together and somehow he got under it... and wrapped all up in it. It was a hilarious sight, seeing Sapnap wail his arms aimlessly to only get the net wrapped around him more.

“Sap!” Karl called out. “Calm down and stop. Let me help you.”

“I have it under control!” Sapnap yelled back. “I don't need any help. It’s just a stupid net! Aghhh.” That ‘stupid net’ wrapped around his leg and when he tried to move his arm, the net pulled back, taking Sapnap out at the knees.

Everyone turned around from the high pitch scream that left Sapnap’s lips and bursted out laughing. Karl did his best to hold his laugh in, but seeing his boyfriends angry face made him fail.

“Can I help you now?” Karl asked, reaching out for the net.

Sapnap crossed his arms in defeat, “Help.”

Karl detangled the net and patted Sapnap on the cheek, “There ya go. I have to go start the fire.”

Sapnap pecked his cheek, “Damn right you start that fire.”

A car horn beeped from the front of the yard, Phil was back. They sent Phil out to get stuff for s’mores since they forgot about it on the grocery list... well, more like they didn't get enough. Half the marshmallows were gone before the second day.

“Children!” Phil called. “I am back!”

Wilbur ran up to Phil and tried to snatch the bag of treats, but he was too slow and Phil whipped it behind his back, “Come on, Phil!”

Phil shook his head, “I’m putting myself in charge of s’mores. You little fucking gremlin will eat them all if I don't.”

“B-But that's not fair!” Wilbur pleaded. “I am a grown man Philzaminecraft. Just give me one marshmallow, that's all I want.”

Phil gave in, “Just one.” He took the marshmallows out of the bag and ripped them open with two fingers. He leaned the bag to Wilbur, carefully watching him only take one, “Good.”

Back at the now started fire, Badboyhalo was making good observations, “Hey, Dream! With the net in place there won’t be much room for benches and chairs.”

“Oh shit you already noticed,” Dream mumbled under his breath.

“What was that?” Bad asked.

“Well you see...” Dream scratched the back of his neck and looked over at George, who gave him the nod. “Benches and chairs are kinda of boring, and they didn't come with the property. I was open that everyone would be okay using old pillows and blankets that I brought because I didn't have enough room in the car to take benches.”

There was a silence among the group. That was a twist that no one would’ve thought of.

Charlie was the first to speak out, “That sounds fun actually! Think of it guys, who wants a boring old campfire? It’s gonna be like we're on some survival show. I’ve always wanted to try one.”

Everyone nodded in agreement. It was probably for the better that no one could fall off of a chair and into the fire. It was more controlled and brought them closer, literally.

“It’s gonna be a great night!” Dream declared. “Georgie, can you get the spares from the car?”

George nodded and went on his way.

“I’m gonna go with George to the cars if you don't mind,” Quackity told Dream. “I think we got enough logs for a couple hours here and I wanna go grab my guitar in the car.”

The sun set and the bugs came out. Everyone helped out getting the ground comfortable and took their spots. After a few quick pictures, the boys were ready to begin their night phone-free.

“Anyone want a s’more stick?” Phil offered, even though he was already passing them out.

“I’m good for now,” Wilbur replied. “But where are the drinks?”

“There should be some in the fridge,” Dream answered.

Wilbur immediately got up and ducked under the net.

“Already?” Bad asked. “We haven't even sat down for five minutes.”

“Oh fuck off!” Wilbur called in the distance.

“Language!”

“Just let him drink!” Quackity urged. “He was gonna do it anyways. Let him have fun and let loose, maybe you should too.”

Bad just ignored him and stuck a marshmallow at the end of his silver stick. Phil looked around and made sure that everyone had supplies before he started his own s’more.

“Do you want me to make yours?” George asked Dream. “I don't want you to get marshmallow in my hair.”

“Pfft what?” Dream asked. “How would I get marshmallow in your hair? I’m not that messy of an eater.”

“Dream, you are 6′1 and I am sitting in your lap. Melted marshmallow are gonna get in my hair with how clumsy you are! You like to move around a lot and I do not want to take extra time in the shower!”

“You already take twenty minutes!” Charlie teased. “You nearly used up all the fucking hot water last night!”

Everyone laughed, including Wilbur who was trying to pass out drinks. Most people denied the offer, it was too early into the fire to start now. Wilbur sat down between Phil and Karl and started to drink straight out of the vodka bottle.

“Jesus fuck, Wil,” Sapnap commented. “Slow down.”

“What?” Wilbur hiccuped. “You didn't see Tubbo make me drink like two and half shots without a break?”

That led to a conversation about streams that didn't have to do with Minecraft, which led to many more conversations about what to outsiders would consider nothing important.

But everyone was having one of the best nights of their lives. Quackity was playing random cords on his guitar that he made mental notes of to make into songs later. George was nearly asleep already due to the fact the Dream would not stop playing with his hair and rubbing his sides, which everyone thought was cute. Wilbur was long gone by now and good thing Charlie was up grabbing wood to catch him from falling in. His hand touched the outer rocks, so there might be a minor burn later, but he was too out of it to even feel it. Karl led a great men’s choir to the song “The Campfire Song Song” from Spongebob.

The fire lasted somewhere around three hours, but the boys made a lifetime worth of memories. Phil and Bad had to help Wilbur get back in the house, which they gave up trying by the time they got to the hallway, so in the hallway he stayed...he would eventually sober up and make it to bed. 

George forced Dream to carry him up the stairs because: “Dream, I’m too tired. If you don’t carry me, that’s proof you don’t love me.”

Karl and Sapnap stayed behind to clean up as much as they could carry. Which led to them sitting by the fire a little while longer until it was completely out, stuffing each other’s faces with marshmallows playing ‘Chubby Bunny’, which they ended up making each other laugh and lost at the same time. 

Tonight was definitely a night that was gonna be told at many weddings to come.

#dream #dreamwastaken #George #georgenotfound #dnf #dreamnotfound #wilbur #wilbur soot #drunk wilbur #drunk wilbur soot #sapnap #karl #karl jacobs #karlnap #philza #badboyhalo #bbh #Charlie #charlie slimecicle #slimecicle #quackity #allywritesforfunmcytvacationseries #vacation #mcyt #mcyt fanfic #fanfic #campfire

[mysticalnightenthusiast]

S.N.A.F.U- A Daniel Ricciardo FanFic CH40 ‘Planning’

The following race in Russia was much less successful for McLaren than the team would have liked.  Daniel finished the race in Sochi in fourth after a strong start and despite the success of obtaining his first career pole position Lando stayed out too long on degraded tyres and aquaplaned in the wet conditions on turn 5 running off the track before returning to the track and pitting only to finish seventh virtually snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.  With a two week break til the sixteenth race of the season in Turkey Daniel returned to London the day after the race and was met at Heathrow Airport by Eadaoin.

“Hey, how was your flight?” she asked greeting him with a quick peck on the lips.

“Not bad,” he said “just keen to get home.”

“How’s Lando?” Eadaoin asked sympathetically “was he on the same flight?”

“Nah he’s taking what happened in Sochi pretty hard and took the red eye out of Moscow this morning,” Daniel replied “he said he was going to chill back at his parents place in Bristol for a few days.  Poor guy, everyone in the team has been trying to make him feel better but there’s nothing we can do that is helping.”

“Well sometimes to feel better you just need to wallow in misery for a few days first,” Eadaoin said philosophically “to be fair he had a pretty good race overall.”

“Yeah I know he did but that move was done out of inexperience and he’ll learn and get through it, we just have to let him come to terms with it all on his own terms,” Daniel said with a sigh “Andreas was pretty happy with the team’s effort overall and we were both in the points which is better than a DNF.”

“Well onwards to Istanbul now but first pizza, want to eat out or in?”

*******************************************************************************************

Two days after returning from Russia and as soon as Eadaoin left for work Daniel set up his laptop in Eadaoin’s office then sent a text to Donnacha, Roisin and Cahir.

Hi it’s Danny, can I get all three of you on zoom?  I want to do it before Eadaoin gets back to the house.

Daniel quickly received a ‘yes’ and ‘of course’ from Donnacha and Roisin.

“Sorry I was literally armpit deep in equine afterbirth came Cahir’s reply several minutes later “can you give me an hour to get home and clean up?  I stink and you do not want to see me covered in equine afterbirth!

Affirming he was fine with this Daniel organised a time ninety minutes later. He passed the time having a run on his treadmill in the gym room before showering and returning to his office, excitement pooling in his belly.  Roisin was the first to come online and immediately started peppering him with questions.

“So what’s up?” she asked “it’s unlike you or Eadie to zoom us at this time of the night. And it’s unlike you to keep secrets from her.”

“I’ll tell you when everyone’s online, promise,” Daniel replied with an enormous grin “but trust me it’s a good surprise and something you’ll-or I hope you’ll be up for.”

“And it concerns Eadie?”

“Yes.”

And despite being peppered with questions Daniel refused to elaborate until five minutes later when Donnacha and Cahir came online.

“Alright come clean why are you zooming us at midnight our time?” Cahir asked.

“And obviously keeping that from Eadie.” Donnacha added suspiciously.

“I’m planning something for her birthday next month,” Daniel confessed “and as her family and those closest to her I wanted to get you all involved but surprise her at the same time.”

“This’ll be good,” Cahir said with a snort of laughter.

“Her actual birth date you have probably realised by now is on the day of the US GP,” Daniel continued “I’m already bringing her to the US so I can celebrate the occasion with her because I won’t be able to come home straight away because I have a load of work related stuff I’m contracted to do sooooooooo....”

“Here we go....” Donnacha said

“Dun dun.” Cahir added perfectly mimicking the Law and Order theme.

“I want to pay your way to the US so as her family you can celebrate her birthday with her.” Daniel finished

“Are you drunk?” Cahir asked as Donnacha and Roisin were stunned into silence.

“Not at nine thirty in the morning I’m not,” Daniel replied with a grin “Eadie and I have a double date with Max and Kelly at my favourite restaurant in Monaco next weekend and I might get drunk then but right now?  No sober as a judge.”

“Son why do you want to go to that expense?” Donnacha asked incredulously “to fly the three of us to the States would cost you thousands of dollars.”

“I know but I can afford it and it’d be worth it just to see Eadaoin smile,” Daniel confessed “I’d spend anything to see her smile.  Plus she really misses you guys and Australia in general and with her new job and the various COVID travel restrictions around it’d be easier for you three to come out here than for her to go home to Adelaide.  It’s been two whole years since she’s seen you and I know it would make her the happiest woman in the world if she could spend a week or two with you.”

“You know it really is nauseatingly sweet how considerate and thoughtful you are when it comes to my sister,” Cahir informed Daniel said with a chuckle.

“Mate I love her,” Daniel said simply “and I want her to be happy and I know if you could come to the US to celebrate her birthday she would be happy more than happy.”

“But it’s thousands of dollars!” Roisin said weakly “and then there’s the accommodation, it’d be expensive to find anything now especially with the race only a month away.”

“Roisin trust me when I say I can afford it,” Daniel said “I’m not one to piss my money up against the wall; I’ve long since gotten over the thrill of having a disposable income that most people would dream of.  My folks brought me up to only spend my money on something worthwhile, something that isn’t superficial and that would leave me fulfilled and reuniting you guys is the very opposite of superficial and this is wholly worthwhile. You, Donnacha and Cahir don’t have to worry about accommodation either.  Just say you’ll come and I’ll organise everything.”

“You really are serious aren’t you?” Donnacha said fixing Daniel with a firm stare.

“Like a heart attack,” Daniel said solemnly “I know I could give her a diamond necklace or buy her her own McLaren but they wouldn’t be as meaningful as seeing her family again.”

“Honey it would be good to see her again....” Roisin said to her husband.

“What’s the plan....logistically?” Donnacha asked “we’d just turn up in Austin and go surprise?”

“Not quite,” Daniel replied with a chuckle “I was thinking I’d have you fly into L.A where you could stay a few days to get over jetlag and do whatever you wanted to do then when Eadaoin and I arrive in Austin you fly up say the Tuesday or Wednesday before the race.  I could take her out for lunch or something whilst you get settled at the hotel then under then when we return to the hotel I could text you and you could come up to our room and I could surprise her. My P.A Pippa is all on board with the idea and will be the one that picks you up at the airport because it would look bit suss if I suddenly disappeared.”

“Well given all the media and PR stuff you do in a race week you probably could get away with disappearing for a while,” Cahir reasoned.

“Mmm maybe but Pippa’s willing to help,” Daniel replied “so what d'you say?”

“Mam, Dad I’m taking Danny up on his offer,” Cahir told his parents as they ummed and ahhed “I’ve been in the same job for years and I need a holiday.  I have like twelve months long service leave saved up and I miss Eadie like crazy.  After Austin I can go back to London with her and just bum around a bit, maybe go temping.  Stay for Christmas maybe.  You guys have more long service leave saved up than I have even.”

“And you honestly don’t mind spending....whatever it’s going to cost?” Donnacha asked.

“Not for a hot minute,” Daniel replied at once “if it cost a million bucks I would do it, reuniting Eadaoin with her family is the best thing I could give her for her birthday.  As I said I just want her to be happy, and as her family you do do.”

“Yeah okay we’ll take you up on your offer,” Donna said after a long silence.

“This really is very generous of you Danny, thankyou,” Roisin informed the Australian “it means a lot to all of us that you’re working so hard to make my baby girl so happy.  Since you two have become a couple she’s begun to shine like she once did before all that unpleasantness with her ex. She’s the person she used to be and it’s all down to you.”

Daniel felt his face warm as he blushed.

“Aw I don’t know about that,” he said.

“No mate Mum’s right,” Cahir said “you didn’t know Eadie back then and I know she’s told you everything that happened with her ex but you can’t begin to comprehend just how devastated she was.  She was damn near suicidal.  She’s found a new life in the UK and more recently with you and I think its all down to you.  You treasure her, you spoil her, you care for her you’re everything to her and everyone in the family is grateful.”

“Well....I’m glad to have been a part of it,” Daniel replied thickly “just text me the dates you can be away for and I’ll email you all the details yeah?”

“You’re a good egg Danny,” Donnacha said “it’s good to have you as part of the family.”

“Thankyou.”

*************************************************************************************

 A/N:  Short but sweet today.  And for those of you who noticed thanks for putting up with the messing around of the masterlist.  I published it without realising it had misnumbered and missing chapters!

#F1 #DanielRiccardoFanfiction

[peppdream]

Just a Dream QnA [Finale]

The final answers all of us are looking forward to :)

This is the finale to my dnf fic “Just a Dream.” Please read that before seeing what’s below, because there will be many spoilers.

Thank you to all the readers that participated! Also a quick warning that this is very long, lol. Anyways, enjoy~

Let’s start off with what everyone’s wondering about… (I swear I never had any intention on making it this long, but I couldn’t help myself okay-)

Sweater Troubles: PLEASE. QnA. COME ON, YOU GOTTA TELL ME WHAT IMP GEORGE THOUGHT OF CLAY. LIKE, COME ON, MAN. I GOTTA KNOW HOW THEY’RE DOING OVER THERE AND HOW THAT MEETING WENT.

urs_mmarie: imp's first impression with clay and vice versa. how did clay react to suddenly meeting imp?

multifandom_psycho: clay and imp’s reaction to waking up after the switch?

chia_aa: How did Clay and Imp react to switching back? and are they happy together? (I really hope they are oh gosh-)

ryuuisnothere: what's imp first impression of clay and vice versa? when did imp and clay realize that the switch happened? how did they react to it?

George quietly watches as the other Dream sleeps, brushing away a blonde strand of curly hair on his forehead. “The other Dream.” Just saying the words brings him such a strange feeling of awe. It was just as he expected: the other George had found the other Dream for him, and they were currently in some sort of hotel room. George’s heart still aches a little, realizing he’ll never see Dream again. All he can hope for now is that, with their successful swap, Dream will do as he promised and confess.

George’s movement, though only a gentle touch, appeared to be enough to wake the other Dream. He slowly opens his eyes, asks in his sleepy voice, “George…?” and George is hit with a full wave of adoration. His voice is just like Dream’s, but more timid. More reserved. It’s the cutest fucking thing ever.

“You are so cute,” George says as much, grinning as he props his head up on one of his arms. The other Dream gives a shy huff at George’s comment, and George feels himself melt a little at how much… quieter he is, compared to Dream. “By the way, we uh… we switched.”

It seems to take a second for his words to register, but when they do, the other Dream’s eyes snap wide open. He sits straight up, blinking with a shocked expression. “O-OH.” A beat of silence. “You’re…?”

“I’m the original,” George confirms.

Clay visibles swallows, then he’s quickly moving away from George, a pained expression on his face. “I-I, sorry, I just—” his words come out in a jumble, sounding panicked and disappointed all at once. “George and I were, I mean, the other George and I were— we were…” he holds his tongue, looking torn. “We…”

George tilts his head curiously. “Are we dating?”

A bright flush crawls up the other Dream’s cheeks, and George nearly has a heart-attack, because wow. Okay.

Apparently this Dream blushes??

“I– yes. No. Well, the other George, I guess… we were? But,” Other-Dream only blushes harder as he tries to explain, “Y-you’re him, I guess, so… yeah? Sorry, I know this sounds confusing. It’s, uh, kind of hard to explain…”

George stops him before he can move any further away from him, placing a hand on the other Dream’s waist. “Does that mean I’m allowed to do this?” he asks innocently, and raising himself so that they’re at the same height, he places a single peck on the side of Blushy-Dream’s cheek.

“Uhhhh….” Other-Dream blinks at him, his entire face a bright tomato red as he tries to compute George’s actions. “UHH???”

George giggles at his reaction. “Sorry,” he grins, “Is that not what people in a relationship do?” 

But because Shy-Dream still appears to have short-circuited from George’s kiss, George figures he’ll cut him a break and stop messing around. “I kind of got into a relationship with your other self,” George gets straight to the point. “And you’re basically him, so…” a shrug, “Go out with me?”

It takes a while, but slowly, the smallest of smiles appears on Other-Dream’s face. He rubs his eyes, still looking disbelieving. “Is this just a dream? Am I… am I dreaming?”

George takes that as a yes, and he cracks a smile. “I’m assuming your name isn’t Dream, is it?”

“I… I’m Clay,” he responds, still looking frazzled and in awe. “My name’s Clay.”

“Nice to meet you, Clay,” George greets, holding their hands together. But he doesn’t let go. “I’m George.”

“I know,” Clay replies, eyes wide, “You’re my IDOL.”

And George laughs, because he didn’t expect this. He didn’t expect Clay to be so shy and awkward and mesmerized by everything, and George was just enamoured. There was no other way to put it. Whether it be Dream or Clay, they both fascinated George equally. 

It looked like everything was going to turn okay.

Sweater Troubles:  AND HOW GEORGE IS GOING TO HANDLE TALKING TO SAP AND BAD ABOUT ALL THIS. PLEASE, I NEED THOSE ANSWERS.

multifandom_psycho: How do bad and sap react?

*on voice-call* Bad: GEORGE! Did Clay manage to change your mind…? Imp George: Nah, I don’t really feel like switching. Sapnap: Oh my god… this is so dumb. Alter, you need to stop being ridiculous and actually think about this. Bad: *hears giggles in the background* George? Is Clay with you right now? Imp George: *ignores the question* Hey look, if I can beat you two in a manhunt, you have to let me keep Clay. Bad: ...what? Sapnap: *snorts* Yeah, okay Alter, you couldn’t even defeat me 1v1. How do you expect yourself to win against both of us? Imp George: Then let’s do it, if you’re so positive you’ll win. Sapnap: Fine, whatever. You have to keep your word, okay? Imp George: I could say the same for you. Sapnap and Bad: *gets totally obliterated in a game of manhunt* Sapnap: What. GEORGE! When did you get so…? Bad: *frowning* ...George? Is that you? Imp and Clay: *breaking out into laughter*

urs_mmarie: how did twitter react to the kiss in the other universe? did imp george release a statement the day he arrived at his universe? how did ppl react?

multifandom_psycho: How did twitter react to the kiss?

AnIntrovertedDumbass: i have one question for alt george: how mad is he with other george for the huge fcking mess LMAO

Brooklynhunter: Bastard man Imposter George, what was your first reaction to the Twitter Drama?

ryuuisnothere: how did imp fix up the whole alter being caught kissing clay thing

Clay: I’m sorry, there was, uh, this picture that’s spreading around on twitter right now…  Imp George: *typing on his phone* Oh, don’t worry about it. I’ll take care of it. Clay: What are you writing? Imp George: *shows new tweet* 

>guys, pls stop harassing him. sure, I haven't uploaded or streamed in a while, but calm the fuck down. Yes, we are in a relationship, and you can't change that. Yes, I came to america to visit him, yes the picture is real. Stop asking. Would you rly make both of us uncomfortable over such a small issue? Please stop. Thanks.

Long story short: Imp George is anything but mad about the drama going around LOL. If anything, Alter did him a favor by pre-establishing the relationship thing. He’ll take these rumors with pride :) (credit: stole most of this from tomaye, it’s rly fitting!)

ryuuisnothere: how did sapnap explain the weird tweet that he did and how did people react to it

Sapnap: *typing a follow-up tweet* >Dream, I swear it was Bad that burned down your house, you have to believe me and george Bad: >WHAT.

Lyrealith_writes: how do clay and impy get along?

multifandom_psycho: Are imp and clay going strong? Did imp and clay have a hard time adjusting or was it natural? 

Imp George: Why are you so cute? Clay: *blushes* Wha— G-George. Imp George: *links their hands* See? So cute. Clay: *mumbles as a beet-red tomato* ...thanks. Y-you’re cute too? Imp George: *melts like icecream*

Opposites attract, what can I say.

urs_mmarie: how did imp george react to alt george using a lot(?) of his money? HAHAHA

Imp George: *checks his bank account* wHA- WHAT HAPPENED TO ALL MY MONEY?! Sapnap: oh yeah, he spent like tons of cash to go find Clay.  Imp George: *slowly drags a hand down his face, remembering how he had also spent a shitload of the other George’s money* Fuck it, you know what? I deserve this. This is karma.

ryuuisnothere: what does imp think of alter and vice versa (I bet imp is pissed at him lmao)

Alt George: He’s like, the better version of me. Dream: George… Alt George: What? It’s true, isn’t it? Dream: Better at minecraft, maybe. But he’s a shit driver. *pauses* And he doesn’t like coffee milk. Alt George: Wow. You’re right, I AM the better George.

Thal_Chandra: how did OG Bad react to his alternate self swearing?

Brooklynhunter: How did Alt universe Bad react when finding out his other version swore?

ryuuisnothere: what does the prime dream team think of goodboyhalo and him cursing lmao

Bad: Wait. I did WHAT now???! Alt George: *laughs* Yeah, your other self swears, Bad. Sapnap: NO WAYYY! AHAHAHAHAHA Bad: WHAT. You’re kidding me? Why would the other me swear? Dream: Oh my GOD, for real?! What did he say? Alt George: Well, on the first say the swap happened, he asked me “who the fu—” Bad: GEORGE, NO, L-LANGUAGE! Sapnap: *snickering* Should we start calling you Goodboyhalo now? Since you don’t even swear… Bad: nO, oh my goodness… >n<

urs_mmarie: will the bbh that curses use muffin now or smth? LMAO

Bad: Oh my god, you’re such a potato. Imp George: *snorts* WhaT. Clay: *frowning* Potato? Bad: Yeah! That’s what I said! Sapnap: I preferred muffin over this.

Lyrealith_writes: DNF relationship reveal in the prime universe????

multifandom_psycho: do dream and alt come out?

Dream: Do you want to tell everyone about us…? Alt George: I… I dunno. I mean, we don’t have to say anything, do we? Dream: *nods* It’s up to you, George. I’m fine with whatever.  Alt George: But, what if we slip up on-stream? Or something? Dream: *shrugs* People will just believe what they’ve always believed. Alt George: *hesitating* But… I think I’m okay. With telling everyone about us. Dream: ...okay. How do you want to do it? Alt George: *uncertainly* ...tiktok.

(Yes, I’m looking at you Orientali. Now this is canon in my head too, thank you. Ref to this fic)

Lyrealith_writes: are they ever going to try and switch again or will they just remember each other fondly?

*on video-call* Alt George: Do you ever think about him? Dream: Who? Alt George: You know… the other me. Dream: *hums, eyes averted* Yeah, of… of course I do. *looks at George* Don’t you still think about the other me, too? Alt George: Yeah. *pause* I miss having a nice Dream to talk to. Dream: *wheezes in laughter* Geoooorge… Alt George: *smiles* I’m just kidding. Dream: *still wheezing* Yeah, I miss having a rude George to talk to too. Alt George: uhm… thanks?? I think?

multifandom_psycho: does clay start playing minecraft with imp?

chia_aa: Does Clay now play Minecraft with Imp?

ryuuisnothere: is clay as good as dream at Minecraft or does he suck (no offense bro) 

Sapnap: How are you actually BETTER at minecraft than Alter?! Clay: *embarrassed giggling* Am I really? Imp George: *nodding* Tons better. Be our fourth hunter, Clay. Clay: * silent gasp* What? Are you… are you sure??? Bad: Oh my potato, YES! You should join us Clay!!  If you call out to George during the manhunt, he might actually stop for you! Imp George: *blinks, stumbling* N-no, I wouldn’t... Sapnap: He HESITATED!!

multifandom_psycho: where were the first dates?

Dream: Our first date has to be in minecraft. Imp George: Yes, our first date has to be a minecraft date. Alter and Clay be looking at each other like: *what is wrong with these two*

esomettin: well i seriously want to know what imp george thought when he came out to dream about his feelings? i personally think that he was being kinda selfish and he shoulve been thinking before acting. idk if he did, but if he did plsss explain what was going tru his mind.

Imp George: I was just being honest. He asked, and I gave him an answer. Dream: I was JOKING. Imp George: ...so? Would you have preferred it if I lied? Dream: *scrunches up his eyebrows* Imp George: *grins back* Look, I wasn’t expecting anything back from you. I know you’re into the other George, okay? I just didn’t see any point in pretending you weren’t attractive. Because you are. Dream: Oh my god. Imp George: *shrugs* And it all ended up alright, didn’t it? That’s the moral of the story, guys. You should always confess your feelings, even if you know you’ll get flat-out rejected. Dream: ...you’re gonna cause broken hearts everywhere, George. Imp George: Honesty is the best policy.

esomettin: i would like to ask sapnap will he marry me pls thank u<3 this is a really important question btw please add this in i really need to know like literally

Prime Sapnap: yES. Other Sapnap: What? NO. They asked ME. And my answer is yes— Prime Sapnap: Um, exCUSE ME. They were clearly referring to the original. Which is ME. Other Sapnap: Uhm, and how can you be so sure? They didn’t even specify. Prime Sapnap: Well… it was implied. Other Sapnap: Uh-huh. Real smart of you, oRigINaL Sapnap. Prime Sapnap: Look, I’m tired of seeing Dream and George be all sappy with each other, okay? I NEED to get into a relationship ASAP before I vomit out my guts— Other Sapnap: Uh, have you even SEEN my world’s George and Clay? They are so ughckk— ALL. The TIME. Prime Sapnap: … Other Sapnap: … Prime Sapnap: Sorry esomettin, I think I just found my soulmate— Other Sapnap: Other me, let’s get married now.

TheLapisWolf200: What was the reason of the swap? [A/N: I’m assuming the question is directed to the reason for the initial swap]

Alt George: I still dunno for sure. But… it helped me recognize my feelings, I guess? Dream: *intertwining their hands* It was the same for me. Imp George: *smirks fondly* I got to meet Dream. And because of him… *elbows* I met this cutie too. Clay: *blushing* G-George… Imp George: And with the extra addition, the George Gang is now better than ever. *smiles, turning to his friends* I’d say we’ve become a better team after all this, haven’t we?

A more coherent answer: Because of Imp’s status, he separated himself from his friends and became a lonely person (which is why he acts the way he does). The reason for the swap as dictated by the universe (or the fanfic gods?? lol) was actually for his sake, and it was Alt’s job to find Clay so that he and Imp could meet when they swapped back.

[And in case the question was directed to the reason for the final swap-back] The criteria was for both parties to “be prepared” for the swap-back. This not only meant both parties had to be willing to return, but that they both had to accomplish their respective goals. For Alt it was finding Clay, for Imp it was to look and learn from the Dream Team’s teamwork and realize he needed to apply it to his own world when he returned.

So basically… romance was never the goal of the swap LOL. Neither was kissing. The characters chose that path for themselves. Hope this helped explain some things!

Brooklynhunter: Clay, what did/do you think of the personality change of Imp George?

ryuuisnothere: what would clay say the main difference between alt and imp is

Clay: Hm, he’s… *pauses to think* He’s exactly how he’s like in videos. Imp George: And how am I like in videos? Clay: *scrunches eyebrows* ...Cocky and confident. Imp George: *smirks* You got it. Clay: ...and brave, and thoughtful, and caring— Imp George: *shushes, face turning pink* No. Stop it.

Brooklynhunter: Alt universe Sapnap and Bad, you didn't have as much interaction with Imp George but what were your impressions of him?

Bad: I think he was kind of shy at first, but he opened up more after we did that first manhunt together— Sapnap: He is so goddamn COCKY.  Bad: Wah- LANguage! Sapnap: We only let him win one manhunt, and he was rubbing it into our faces for the rest of the entire week! Bad: ...you’re just mad that there’s a George out there who’s better than you at minecraft? Sapnap: ...no. Dream: *snickering* He totally is.

Brooklynhunter: And finally, Clay’s mom. What was your initial reaction to finding out Random Old Friend Of Clay turned out to be Pretty Famous and also find that out from the hundreds of pictures of him and your son Kissing on social media?

Clay’s Mom: welcome to the family :)

chia_aa: Oh! and what is everyone's clothing choice? I'm curious on what style of clothing each character has, like would Alt and Imp have similar tastes in clothing? That also applies to Clay and Dream!

Dream: Hoodie and jeans. Alter George: *rolls eyes* So basic. Dream: You just wear t-shirts all the time! Alter George: A-and sweaters! Clay: *shyly raises hand* Jackets…? Sometimes hoodies. No green ones though. Imp George: *steps onto the stage, ears-pierced, hands in pockets* Gaze and be amazed, plebs.

Okay but like, for real now. I like to differentiate Dream and Clay by green vs yellow hoodie. For the Georges, I initially did not have any sort of way to separate them BUT. This amazing fanart has now become my new canon (for imp George, at least), so you can refer to that for an idea of what I’m thinking of :) (It’s a shame I’m only thinking about this now, since I absolutely would’ve inserted a passage about Imp roasting George’s closet if I could LOL)

k3yb0aRdSMaCK: I have questions..... SAPNAPS YES BOTH OF YOU!!! HOW CHEZZY AND CUTE ARE THE DREAMS AND GEORGES?!?!

Other Sapnap: *gags* Prime Sapnap: They’re so gross. Other Sapnap: Yeah, agreed. Other Bad: Their PDA can be a bit much at times. Prime Bad: But, I think they’re kind of cute…? Other Bad: You’re a potato. Prime Bad: Wha- H-HEY! exCUSE YOU.

And that’s everything! That was a lot of fun, haha xD Thank you again for all the love and support you guys gave this story, I’m know I’m gonna miss writing it a ton <3 Have a wonderful day, and happy dreams!

-

Additional questions after the deadline:

Georges interactions with one another / Dreams interacting with one another

#just a dream #dreamnotfound #dreamwastaken #georgenotfound #fanfiction #fanfic #mcyt

[alextriestowritestuff]

Blood Of Olympus Read W/ Me

This was the worst book of the series by far. I almost didn’t finish it. I think my thoughts are going to be rather short but they’ll still be below the cut for spoiler reasons. There will also be Trials of Apollo spoilers so I highly suggest not reading this if you haven’t caught up with those books! Let’s get into it.

I’d like the start by saying what I like: Nico/Reyna POV. I loved their relationship (which I didn’t see coming at all) it was very big sis-little bro vibes. I love that Nico finally found a place and his budding relationship with Will. What’s funny is though I knew Will would be his love interest (You can’t avoid them in fanfic at all) I thought he’d be more like super sunshine/super happy and that would contrast with Nico’s emo nature. But he was just chill and was like Nico, stop being a dumbass, we’re friends. I think fanfic gave me a different impression of what he’d be like (Granted I never read the fics, just summaries) and I was surprised that he was not like that. It’s not bad or good, just pointing it out. 

Oh and Nico telling Percy he liked him and Percy just being like ‘say what?’ I didn’t expect Nico to actually fess up to that one but Percy’s reaction was gold. 

The best moment in this book is Reyna taking down Orion by herself. She was that BITCH. Correct me if I’m wrong but the only other person who defeated a giant by themselves was Percy right? In the Battle of Labyrinth when he fights Antaeus? I think Antaeus was a half-giant though because Percy, a demigod, managed to kill him without the help of a god. Anyway, Reyna was everything in that scene. Oh I lied, he took down Polybotes too. They’d be unstoppable together (though I love Percabeth). She was about to sacrifice herself too!! What a queen. I respect the crap out of her. UM Jason you really picked the wrong girl lmao. 

I appreciated the Thalia cameo (because again, I didn’t re-read the Lost Hero so I haven’t seen her since the last time I read the PJO series) and the mention of Zoe. I hope Kenzie didn’t really die though, I liked her. 

And that’s all the good I have to say about it. Now for the bad...so much bad.

So after thinking about it, I realize that what makes HoO so different from its predecessor series is that there’s no consequences. The closest we got to consequences was Annabeth and Percy falling into Tartarus because they weren’t saved in time. No one important (protagonist/good guys side) died. Leo was resurrected (And I looked it up and found out that he came to Camp in the Trials of Apollo series so everyone knows he’s alive). Even for the Tartarus one, we didn’t even get a PTSD arc. It would’ve been helpful to have Percy or Annabeth’s POV in this book to wrap up that subplot. Instead we get two lines about their time in Tartarus and when Percy brings it up, Annabeth tells him not to mention it. So no PTSD arc. Got it. But we can just casually mention that Octavian committed suicide (which I don’t care for that ending at all).  Right.

The HoO books are boring because there’s no consequences. I never felt true fear apart from Percy/Annabeth being in Tartarus. In the Last Olympian, mortals were put to sleep, Annabeth was gravely injured, Silena and Beckendorf died. Luke and Ethan died. There was no magical save for them. Blood of Olympus had NO stakes, coupled with a weak, slightly developed new characters made it a bad series imo. It also doesn’t deliver on the questions posed in the book.

Hazel’s curse is still active, no descendant of Neptune has taken it away. I read the wiki summary for every book of the Trials of Apollo (The last one isn’t out yet) and there’s no mention of her curse being lifted. I think Frank’s stick is resolved imo being that it’s safe in the fireproof pouch but for some readers, they don’t think that’s resolved. Kym told Percy he’d have to face his fatal flaw. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I don’t feel as though he did. Percy also never helped Leo find Calypso but Ig that’s null because he never got the chance to. Also is Black Jack, Frank’s grandmother, Hylla okay? Orion said Hylla got away but I was hoping for another cameo. 

Let’s talk about the villains/the entire quest of the Seven. The quest was boring, Nico/Reyna/Hedge’s quest was 100x more interesting and they were transporting a freaking statue. The quest of the Seven was fight this minor god/villain who is working for Gaea who promised them something (Even Jason has a line where he makes fun of this), outsmart/fight them, get to Athens where all the monsters are. Percy and Annabeth’s blood awakens Gaea. The gods come down which makes me angry because most of them weren’t helpful throughout the series. Poseidon wasn’t in this series at all. He didn’t even send a symbol or talk to his son who went missing. I’m pissed that the battle against Gaea wasn’t even in Athens! I’m pissed that they got slapped to New York, like what? The gods really couldn’t poof them back there, they gave some excuse but it was still bs. But I guess Rick needed Argo II to get back to NY so Leo can turn festus back into a dragon. But anyway, the gods come down, the demigods work with to defeat the giants in less than two pages. The giants that were poised as a massive threat for four books straight. Defeated in mere minutes. We don’t even get a cool battle description, they just hack and slash at them and they’re dead. Huh? 

Percy, Annabeth, Hazel, and Frank were reduced to background characters and I understand they don’t have a POV but I never felt that characters who didn’t have a POV in a certain book were ever forgotten/not utilized. They didn’t really get to do anything. 

We also don’t really see the Roman and Greek gods all that much. I know they’re the same people, different Greek and Roman personalities. But like I thought their Roman side could be seen a bit more but they were having difficulty maintain one persona throughout the whole series. I can tell you what the Greek gods are like and how they interact w/ each other based on the throne room scenes/anytime they help demigods in PJO/HoO. But Roman gods as whole? I can’t tell you how they even interact with each other. 

But wait, it gets worse. There’s not even a formal recognition thing like there was at the end of the Last Olympian (where Percy is offered godhood and Annabeth is given position of architect) there’s a little meeting with the gods and the Seven in which Jason is like give minor gods shrine and the gods aren’t really all that interested in what he has to say. There’s no thank you demigods. No, thanks Annabeth and Percy for literally going through Tartarus and Hazel for sacrificing yourself at 13 back in the 1940s. And the rest of them sacrificed something too. Like damn, no wonder why Luke was always like the gods don’t care about their kids. 

Gaea was built up to be a big bad (honestly not really, she talked trash the entire time/sent people to do her work) and the woman is easily overpowered by the three demigods. She’s not even awake for 20 minutes and she goes down. WHAT?? 

Overall, it was anti-climatic and totally did a 180 on everything else established in this series-the fact that Gaea was such a major foe and turned out not to be (that SEVEN demigods had to take her down, not just 1 like Percy’s prophecy) and the giants were to be feared too but they get taken down. At 200 pages in, I dead ass wanted to DNF, it was so boring. I gave it a one star because although the good I mentioned was really great, it doesn’t save the book. So for me, this series had every book be 3 stars or under except House of Hades. 5 books and I only really was able to like one and get through it easily and it still had issues. Like what?

Lastly, I want to touch on Jason. I still think he’s bland though I appreciated him giving Nico a hug at the end there. Again from ToA/being spoiled over the years, I learned that Jason died and I won’t be reading ToA but I read the summary of the book where he died and um, wow. I don’t feel anything for his death but the fact that he and Piper broke up sent me into a laughing/anger rage. Laughing because they really said ‘I love you’ at the end of BoO and they didn’t even make it a year lmao. And the fact that PIPER, miss always insecure in her relationship with him, McLean broke up with HIM. WOOOOOW. But it made mad because I listened to her complain/fawn over Jason for 4 freaking books (not counting tSoN) for NO REASON cuz they ended up breaking up. Overall, I appreciated what Jason, Hazel, Frank, and Piper did in the HoO series because they were helpful but I couldn’t connect with their characters. I’ll admit that in BoO we got a little bit more bonding between characters which is what I asked for in my last read with me and I like the Percy/Jason scene underwater and Piper/Annabeth scene from the beginning. I do think some relationships were summarized when they could’ve been shown--i.e. Annabeth/Reyna/Piper friendship but they have potential. 

The bonding was good, it was just too late. It should’ve happened in MoA/HoH as well. Random but I also hate how Leo was treated (esp. by Jason and Piper) throughout the series and I’m glad he got out of that mess. He was reduced to a deus ex mechanic and that wasn’t cool. The Seven wouldn’t have been able to do this quest without him. 

Sooo I guess this is it. I don’t think I’m going to read another Rick Riordan book again unless I hear something drastic happens to Percy or Annabeth/Any of the PJO characters and Reyna. I’m strongly reconsidering removing him as my fav author. I still love the PJO series but this one was not it. I don’t know if Rick was on a tight deadline for these HoO books but it was just poorly executed. I don’t regret reading the series, I think reading HoH was worth all the time I spent reading this series. I wish I had just read a summary of tSoN and MoA, especially because I already read them years ago and knew I wasn’t into them from my first read. I wasted my own time by doing that. So if I had done that I would’ve gotten to just read HoH and then only be disappointed by BoO as opposed to three books. It is what it is. It’s nice to be in the loop because I always see these things about HoO characters and spoilers so now I know how it went down. 

But that’s it guys, thank you for reading this entire thread and the ones before it. I have a lot of opinions and I don’t think I’m in the minority by saying I didn’t like this series overall. I will get back to my writeblr content and I will leave you guys with my final ratings for the series (My rating system may seem generous compared to my read with me thoughts but I personally don’t give less than 3 stars to books that plot wise made sense. It may not be the most compelling plot or have the best characters but if it made coherent sense, I have to give it at least a 3.) :

The Lost Hero: This score is based off of my original reading in 2012/2013 and my thoughts on the main characters in that book, I give this a 3/5 stars

The Son of Neptune: 3/5

The Mark of Athena: 2/5

The House of Hades: 4.5/5

The Blood of Olympus: 2/5 

Worst book of the series: Mark of Athena (Blood Olympus is a close tie but the Nico/Reyna really saves it from this spot) and best book- House of Hades. 

#blood of olympus #rick riordan #Percy Jackson #Jason Grace #HoO #Percabeth #read with me #writeblr #alextriestowritestuff #not writing

[charonaraccoon]

Bridges: The spider incident (Maxiel drabble)  21. „I’m not gonna let you get yourself killed!”

It’s different this season. Max could have never imagined Daniel wearing anything else but the dark blue clothes on a race weekend. Still Daniel stands on the other end of the press pen talking to the Italian press in a bright yellow polo shirt. And above that he manages to look as perfect as always, the friendly colour underlining his tanned skin, his bright smile and his sunny personality. Max tears his eyes away and smirks before asking the Interviewer in front of him to repeat her

Things changed since Daniel left the team but in a different way than Max had expected them to. They are even closer now rather than farther away from each other. They talk more openly about racing and life in general now that they aren’t direct rivals anymore. Max muses how Daniel changing team at this specific point in both of their careers might change things for the future as he returns to the garage.

He nods at Marko before turning to Gianpiero. “How’s it going?” “Pre-heating is almost done. You should get ready.” Max pats his back and turns around to the car, running his fingertips over the shiny blue surface of the chassis for a second. Suddenly he notices something huge and pitch black and hairy out of the corner of his eyes. “Jesus fucking Christ, there’s a spider!” Max jumps backwards, clenching his helmet in both hands staring at the plate-sized animal sitting nonchalantly in his driver’s seat like in a throne, looking up at his objectives out of what seems like eight billion razor-sharp eyes. “What? Where?!” Gianpiero asks carefully peeking out from behind his clipboard. Max whines in disgust. “In my car, on the seat! Oh my god!” Max shivers, sheer panic in his face, when the spider fucking clicks at him.

“What’s going on?” Daniel enters the red bull garage, a yellow sun sinking into all the oceanic dark blue and frowns at the scene. “What happened?” he asks as he takes in Max’s frightened and pale face and the nervous distance all the mechanics and staff seem to maintain to the RB15. “Spider!” Max whispers as if trying not to offend the new ruler of the car worth millions of dollars. Daniel cocks his head and murmurs a simple “Welcome to Australia.” before approaching the car. Max instantly grabs his arm to stop him. Daniel meets icy blue eyes, wide with fear and disgust. “I’m not gonna let you get yourself killed.” “Trust me, I can handle it.” Daniel radiates so much self-assurance and confidence that Max slowly loosens his grip.

Daniel peers inside the car, mutters a soft “Hey, you obviously took a wrong turn, because you’re absolutely lost, mate. Let me help you.” Max watches in terror as Daniel looks around for some tool to help him move the beast. He grabs one of the huge screw-wrenches that are attached on the drills for tyre changes and carefully pushes it beneath the spider. Max hides his face in his hands as Daniel lifts the spider up and carries it out of the garage. “Curiosity killed the cat” he murmurs before following the Aussie past the Farrari and Mercedes garages. Daniel sets down the animal in the grass lane next a neat pile of tyres and waves it goodbye. “Alrighty, mate, there you go. Stay safe!” When he turns around he flashes Max a mischievous grin. “Are you alright?” “I guess so. Thanks.” “You’re welcome.” They part in front of the Red Bull garage with a side hug that lasts a second longer than necessary. Daniel pats Max’s back. “It’s okay, Max. See you on track. Have a good one.” Max lets out a shaky laugh and quickly takes in Daniel’s scent before returning to his garage and disinfect his chassis.

After the race Daniel sits in the corner of a local pub, when Max slumps down on the opposite bench. They sit in comfortable silence for a while, both dwelling on their thoughts, sighing occasionally and drinking from time to time. Until Max sighs. “I’m sorry about the race. I know, how important the home races are to you.” “Jesus, they’re important to everyone, Max!” Daniel sighs and shakes his head. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to snap at you.” “It’s okay, honestly. It seems like we both act kind of girly today.” Daniel snorts at that and chuckles before licking his lips and drinking from his beer bottle. Max can’t hide the pride of being responsible for that positive expression after a shitty DNF in the first race of the season. “It was just too much work this week, way too much. I was exhausted before the weekend even started. I should have handled it better beforehand.” Max shrugs and fumbles with the bottle label. “Australia means a lot to you. And I don’t mean just the race as itself. You love this country and you want to represent it as well as possible.” Daniel looks at Max and his ebony eyes display everything he feels for Max in that very seconds when his lips curve upwards into a tender smile. Max nudges his shoulder for he doesn’t dare to take Daniel’s hand in public – not yet, at least. “Although I honestly don’t get why you love that country so much. It sucks!” “Why?” Daniel looks like someone stole his chocolate, irritated, on the verge of pouting. Max spreads his arms in a defying movement. “Ahm, hello?! It tried to kill me today?!” Daniel huffs and laughs, making Max grin widely. “Jeepers, Max, it was just a spider…” “A huge, definitely deadly spider.” “You’re such a whiny hard-ass.”, complains Daniel shaking his head at Max, who instantly pouts. “Should have let the spider eat me then.” “Max, spiders don’t eat people. They’re not piranhas.” “This one would have…”, insists Max and Daniel sighs in what sounds like defeat. “Not even in Australia… and my continent really is home to some dangerous creatures, I give you that. This one wouldn’t have killed you, though. It probably was as frightened of you as you were of it.” “Are you seriously defending the spider?!” Daniel groans and wipes his eyes before nodding at Max’s empty beer bottle. “I’ll get us another round.” “Try not to befriend any spiders on your way!” Max murmurs and gets pinched in the arm for that. “Jerk!” Daniel’s grin is too wide to make the insult sting. While he waits for the drinks he looks at Max, who sits at the table, deep in thought with his eyes fixed on the table surface and bobbing knees. Although the disappointment of the race stings and he’s tired and weary to the bone, the sight of Max waiting for him at that table makes it somehow bearable.

It’s a couple of days later on one of their rare free weekdays when Daniel hangs upside down the high bar in the far corner of the gym for some crucial sit-up exercises and Max enters the room. “You’re up early.” “A hero needs to stay in shape.” “You’re not planning on letting that spider thing go for another decade, are you?” Max comes closer after dropping his towel on the weight bench. Daniel’s fuzzy and sweaty curls dangle in the air cheekily. He can see the tattoo peeking out from under his shorts. The toned muscles of his stomach and chest under the shimmering and tanned skin make Max swallow. He pushes a wet strand from Daniel’s face and gets on his tip-toes so they are on eye level. He instantly drowns in Daniel’s ebony eyes that look at him curiously and open and loving. “You are a hero, but you’re too good looking for a mask to be honest. My personal spider man.” He crooks his head and presses a gentle kiss on Daniel’s lips. He takes in his scent, sweat, sunshine, warmth, and smiles running his hand through his hair and over his heated cheeks. They part and Daniel’s grin is the wrong way around but its beauty remains unscathed. “Be my Mary Jane then.” Max huffs and pinches Daniel’s sides. “Don’t get cheeky. But yeah, I’d choose you over Toby McGuire. Andrew Garfield is more my type.” Daniel makes the last sit-up, grips the bar and lowers himself until his feet touch solid ground again. He shakes his head and clicks his tongue. “Garfield is alright, but I don’t know, whether I should thank you for the compliment or punch you for even considering a comparison between McGuire and me.” “You could as well just kiss me, you know?” Max grins and is met by Daniel’s warm embrace in the middle of the room. “I’ll always protect you from evil spiders and snakes and Christian Horners.” “What about sharks?” Max presses his nose into the crook of Daniel’s neck and feels him laughing against his chest. “Well, I need a few more training sessions, but I’ll get there to even face my fear of sharks.” The joke fades a little, as Daniel combs his fingers through Max’s damp hair. “For you, I would.” And despite the joke, despite Max being tired already of being teased because of the spider incident, he knows in his very heart and soul that Daniel is telling the truth – because that’s what heroes do.

#fanfiction #archive of our own #drabble #writing prompt #maxiel #max verstappen #daniel ricciardo #spiders

[afoolsingenuity]

Bite Sized Books // A Mixed Bag of a DNF and a Palate Cleanser Read

Today’s post of Bite Sized Books only has two reviews and neither review is me shouting for you to get reading. One is a DNF where it very much felt like I was saying it’s not you it’s me when I finally admitted defeat and DNF. And the other is a book which felt like a palate cleanser. It was good but it wasn’t amazing and I felt like it was getting my brain ready for whatever book I picked up next.

Shadow of the Fox (Shadow of the Fox #1) – Julie Kagawa Published: 2nd October 2018 Source: Netgalley Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy My Rating: DNF

A single wish will spark a new dawn.

Every millennium the missing pieces of the Scroll of a Thousand Prayers are hunted, for they hold the power to call the great Kami Dragon from the sea and ask for any one wish.

As a temple burns to the ground Yumeko escapes with its greatest treasure – the first piece of the scroll. And when fate thrusts her into the path of a mysterious samurai she knows he seeks what she has. Kage is under order to kill those who stand in his way but will he be able to complete his mission? Will this be the dawn that sees the dragon wake?

Enter a beautiful and perilous land of shapeshifters and samurai, kami and legends, humans and demons…a world in which Japanese mythology and imagination blend together.

I didn’t hate this book. But I didn’t love it and ended up DNF-ing which was unfortunate. It was nothing against the book, I actually really liked so many aspects of the story but I think it was very much I was not in the mood for the book and something didn’t click and so I ended up DNF-ing at the end of 2018.

This book seriously made me question at what point you should DNF. I found the story interesting and original. The exploration of Japanese mythology and folklore was fascinating and done well so that someone knows very little (like me) didn’t feel lost within the story but instead felt like they were being told but it also wasn’t too heavy handed so you feel overloaded with information either. It was gradually interspersed and that made me like it so much. I think my issue was very much I wasn’t in the mood for this book but also I didn’t connect with the characters. This may have been because there were multiple POV and we all know how I feel about those, or maybe my not being in the mood drive a wedge which stopped connecting, whatever the case it was very much a ‘it’s not you it’s me’ moment in DNF-ing. I felt so bad and questioned whether or not I should persist for the story but I knew how it would end. Me in a slump disliking the book when it really was a good story.

I did try and push through my mood and see if the characters would click for me but sadly that did not happen. If you are looking for a book with an interesting storyline with mythology and folklore you may be unfamiliar with then this is for you. There are plenty of far more positive reviews out there which shows it wasn’t the books fault.

Last Good Man (Crown Creek) – Theresa Leigh Published: 25th July 2018 Source: Free Genre: Romance, Contemporary My Rating:

Cooper Grant is not my type. Yes, he’s drool-worthy, with that glint in his blue eyes and the jaw-dropping way he fills out his jeans. Yes, other women might fall all over themselves for a glimpse of his slow, crooked smile. I’m not other women. ​ He hates me. And the feeling is mutual. ​ In a town as small as ours, it’s pretty hard to avoid him...and it’s completely impossible once I wake up in a hospital bed to find Cooper pacing the floor of my room. ​ He’s rumpled. He’s frantic. And he’s swearing I’m his fiancee. ​ What the hell? ​ I hate him, but he saved my life. So when he asks me to lie and pretend we’re engaged, I have no choice but to play along. One moment we’re fighting like usual, the next moment he’s kissing me and slipping a gorgeous ring onto my finger. It’s enough to give me whiplash… again. ​ And maybe it’s the bump on my head, but it’s getting pretty easy to pretend I’m in love with him. ​ Now, instead of avoiding him, I’m surrendering to his crushing kisses. Our fiery hatred for each other isn’t nearly as hot as the nights we spend entwined. The engagement is fake. The love is pretend. ​ But the way I ache for him is real. ​ And now I want to know… Can your worst enemy be your best lover?

Does it sound harsh to call this book a good palate cleanser? Because it was an excellent palate cleanser of a book. It was enjoyable and easy to read and never gave me any urge to DNF… but it also won’t be a book I throw at everyone to read and I may forget about it in another couple of weeks. But the times I was reading it it was awesome.

This book could totally raise questions of what makes a good and a bad book for me but let’s not get into that debate today.

It’s a fake relationship book of sorts and that is totally what made me want to read… along with the fact it was a freebie read I saw on an author newsletter that I kind of couldn’t help put download. I did wonder if it was going to be a whole amnesia storyline from the summary (because you could totally believe it from that, right?) but it wasn’t. Thankfully, it was all a fake relationship instead for the convenience of Cooper being able to go in the ambulance when Willa was hurt. I much preferred that storyline than any amnesia one.

Cooper and Willa were a darn cute couple who for many reasons ended up hating each other. Cooper was definitely the cause of that but really, the main culprit was Cooper’s best friend who just should have been honest from the start (and he kind of pissed me off because of that). Cooper was a nice guy who was sticking up for his friend and this started a whole campaign of not liking Willa. And Willa was a good friend who was willing to sacrifice her reputation to help a friend out. Fast forward a few years and they’re stuck disliking one another all because one dude couldn’t be honest with his best friend. Someone is a dickhead here and it wasn’t Cooper. Anyway, vague allusions to plot aside, it was a good book. I liked Seeing Willa and Cooper get closer and become friends and then something more. It had moments of me feeling like maybe the romance moved too fast, but it was always fun to read. I would have liked more friends time before they moved to the sexy time, but you can’t have everything.

I may not feel like this book is going to stay with me forever but who doesn't want an enjoyable read to prepare them for their next read?

I have two questions, what makes you DNF a read, and can you ever see when it’s a you thing and a book thing? And do you have palate cleanser reads where you like a book but you very much feel like it’s getting you ready to read something awesome?

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[jessicaptain]

I started racing because I wanted a challenge. I thought I could take my endurance rides to the field and compete. I was humbled faster than I thought I could race. The longer I race my bike, the more I realize how it transfers to Life.

1. If you give up, someone else wins.

As soon as you back off, your competition will blow past you. There have been numerous occasions where I was neck-and-neck with another athlete, only to give in to the painful burning in my legs. As soon as I sought relief, two wheels spun by. And my legs would still hurt as they disappeared in the distance. Most races this past season, I listened to my legs instead of my heart. Or hell, maybe it was the fact that my heart wasn’t in it.

More than once, I lined up at the start, already given up, as I looked at my competition. Unceasing self-doubt plagued my thoughts before the whistle blew.

Outside of cycling, I’ve given up on projects and people alike, convincing myself it wasn’t going to work, only to be proven wrong by someone else.

2. There will always be someone better than you.

No matter how much you train or study, someone will outdo you. And that’s okay. You don’t grow if you’re not challenged. Knowing this doesn’t mean you stop trying because one day you will beat that person.

Then you will find someone better than you again. And again.

I remember passing cyclists during organized rides before I started racing. I thought I was super fast. Surely, I could race with the speed I was going I thought. Then I started racing and more often than not, someone was always passing me. I train plenty and there will always be a faster woman than me.

3. It’s okay to ask for help.

When I was younger, I thought it showed a sign of weakness if I asked for help, so I never did. I learned a lot alone, but it was probably more efficient to ask someone who knew what they were doing.

When I started racing, again, I was figuring it all out alone. I couldn’t find resources nor did I know what to even research. Racing was entirely new to me. I didn’t know what I didn’t know.

I created my own training plan my first year and luckily, it was enough to beat my competition. My first season as a Cat 3 was tough. I knew it would be. I thought I could replicate my training from the season prior, but it was a mistake. Undertrained and frustrated, I only landed on the podium twice out of the whole season.

I finally asked a friend to look over my plan. I knew if I didn’t change something, I’d get the same results. He ripped my plan to shreds, but that’s what I paid him for. I don’t have enough money for a coach, but I could pay for a consultation.

As amateur as I felt asking for help, I realized I didn’t know as much as I thought, and it was worth getting a different pair of eyes on it.

I’ve asked for help in other areas of my life as well. I’ve asked for career advice, life advice, and love advice. Most people are grateful to be asked and will typically help if they can.

4. We all pretend to have it figured out.

When I line up for a race, I try to look like I know what I’m doing. I joke around out of anxiety. Truth be told, I have no plan. I assume the rest of the women do, especially if there are team members. I joke more.

I remember Guanella Pass Hill Climb. A sizable group shot off from the front. I assumed they’d be racing like that the whole time up the mountain and there was no way I could keep up. I pulled off from the group. Once at the top, at a measly 7th or so place, one of my competitors told me her team’s plan: “we wanted to hold a high pace for the first five minutes to drop as many women as we could. We didn’t know if it’d work or not.”

It worked.

Other times, I’ll chat with winners and they’ll admit they weren’t expecting a win.

We like to look like we know what we’re doing. Social media is the worst (or best?) for this: people post their best sides; their “I-know-what-I’m-doing” pose. Rare is it to see vulnerable posts that reveal how lost we all are. We don’t want people to know that we’re 30 years old and haven’t a clue where to go. Oh, is that just me?

I think we fear being vulnerable because of all the stereotypes that come with that title. Vulnerable in society means weak, easily manipulated, less-than. No one wants to be perceived as that. We want to feel like we belong. And that means pretending we know what we’re doing.

5. Pain is temporary.

Whether it be physical or mental, pain isn’t forever. I know there have been numerous occasions where my legs and lungs were burning. I assumed it’d go on like this the whole race, longer than the race, so I gave up. I pulled back for relief. I couldn’t hack it.

I forgot that the pain was temporary. It wasn’t going to last forever. It’d eventually subside. When I get tattoos, I breathe through it. That sharp mini stab against my skin. I remember to relax my body and remind myself it’s temporary. I forget the pain at my next tattoo session.

When I had my first serious break-up, I didn’t think life could get much worse. I cried and swore off men at the ripe age of 16. I remember the sting in my chest whenever I had to drive by his parents’ house, flipping the bird as I zoomed past. I never thought I’d love again.

I loved and broke again and again and again. Each time growing harder, swearing off dating, convincing myself I only needed me; that I’d never break my own heart. Then another beard would walk into my life and the process began again.

When I lost a job because of the owner’s pride, I thought that was the end of my career. I fully believed that status was everything. If I didn’t have a job, I was nothing. After a few sorrowful days, I felt light. I was no longer burdened by a manager’s ego who crushed my will to live. I was no longer in an emotionally abusive and toxic environment. When I thought I couldn’t survive, I flourished. The pain eventually subsided.

When we’re in a moment (or several) of pain, we tell ourselves we’re not going to get through it. We forget all the times we told ourselves that and survived.

6. Attitude & perseverance is everything.

Bad attitudes give bad results. If you believe you’ll fail, you will. If you think a situation will suck, it will. If you tell yourself that so-and-so isn’t a good person, they’ll prove you right because that’s what you’ll look for.

Throughout the race season, I have to remind myself to have fun. I tend to take it too seriously (okay, I take most things too seriously). When I take racing too seriously, I place too much of my self-worth on results. When I tie my self-worth to mid-pack finishes, I get depressed and start thinking less of myself. I don’t want to race at that point and then I start questioning why I race. It’s a shitty spiral.

In the same vein, perseverance will get you to the end. If you cannot persevere, you won’t go far in racing or in life. You need to be able to handle all the bullshit that’s thrown your way. You have to be able to handle it again and again and again. Like Hugh Glass in the Revenant. He kept getting his ass handed to him, and yet, he continued. After getting mauled by a bear, left for dead, shot at, starved, and falling off cliffs, Hugh persevered.

Unless I am physically unable to finish a race, I will always cross the finish line. Death before DNF.

7. Suffering is all part of the game.

You need to learn to suffer because suffering is a part of life. When you can accept that, it’s easier to endure.

You will learn to endure mental anguish and physical pain throughout your life. Whether that is losing a job, losing a loved one, suffering a bodily injury, or racing your bike. Hell, it will even be those tiny, nagging pains – the ones you wake up with in the morning, sore shoulders from hunching over your computer, or low back pain from holding up your gut.

You suffer insanely on the bike. You can’t have a weak mind if you want to race. Your mind will want to give up before your legs if it isn’t trained. Too many times I wanted to give up before the finish line.

I remember my first 40K Time Trial Race. It sucked. As I took off from the starting line I watched the woman in front of me disappear. It was clear I wasn’t gaining on her, which meant my time was slower than hers. I was a solid five miles in before anyone passed me, but when they did, boy was I passed. Mentally, I was over it. I already convinced myself that I came in last. At that point, I just wanted to finish.

My body was wiped too.

My legs felt like they were filled with lead. No matter how hard I pushed on the pedals, nothing came out. It felt like I was maxing out my FTP, but really, I was pushing out half those watts. I crossed the finish line, totally defeated. When I saw my first last place, I cried.

I sulked the whole way back home. Then I became determined to never finish last place again. And when I did finish last another time, I didn’t cry, I didn’t sulk. I’m learning to suffer and accept results as they come.

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