#i’ve watched nothing but middle aged people play d&d for a straight month

[shaunasjorts]

#i’ve watched nothing but middle aged people play d&d for a straight month #critical role #cr #dungeons and dragons #beauyasha #fjordjester #mighty nein #vox machina

[give-me-back-my-rhodey]

The Trio is Back - AUgust Day 7

Title: The Trio is Back

Author: Purple_ducky00

Rating: Teen

Warnings: N/A

Relationships: Bucky/Nat/Tony, Bucky/Tony

Square Filled:  N2: Didn’t Know They Were Dating Link: Read on AO3

Summary:  Natasha, Bucky, and Tony have been friends since childhood. Everyone speculates that Natasha will have to choose between the two of them. Little do they know she might just choose both.

+++++++++

Tony, Bucky, and Natasha have been friends since toddlers. The Starks, the Barneses, and Natasha’s adoptive parents were a close-knit bunch who played bridge on Thursday nights, usually at the Stark mansion.

 As children, the three would run through the house playing superheroes, Super Mario characters, jedi, etc. The Stark butler, Jarvis, always made sure nothing valuable was broken. They would often rope him into their play. As they got older, they calmed down somewhat. Natasha taught Tony to braid so he could braid her and Bucky’s hair.  Both would push him to get more intricate braids. Bucky would recommend books for the others to read, and they had a book club group chat where they would discuss plots and theories. Tony lets them in his lab and teaches them about science.

 When the three turned ten, the adults would joke that Natasha might have a hard time choosing between the two handsome boys. Natasha’s fathers said she should be able to do whatever she wanted. Natasha never paid them any mind because Tony and Bucky were her friends. Why did she need to choose?

The three were inseparable until middle school. They never had a falling out, per se. They just stopped hanging out. Maybe they were tired of everyone trying to figure out who liked who, or maybe they just wanted more friends. No one actually knows. Tony became close with his lab partner James Rhodes, who he dubbed Rhodey. He also roped Virginia Potts into his trio as well. She became known as Pepper almost overnight. Natasha basically adopted the “school nerd” Bruce Banner and Carol Danvers, the girl most of the guys hated because she was “too feminist.” Carol, an avid lesbian even at a young age, didn’t care. Boys were a waste of time to her. Bucky was fast friends with Steve Rogers, Sam Wilson, and Sharon Carter.  Every once in a while, all ten of them would hang out, but it seemed like the legendary trio was over.

 As they reach puberty, the comments about them increase. Instead of being smelly boys, Tony and Bucky both grow into handsome young men. Both realize as they grow older that they were kind of into boys and girls. Sure, Natasha is beautiful, Bucky thinks, but so is Sam. He doesn’t know how Tony feels about Nat, and since one of them was “destined” to get her, he decides he will step back and let Tony ask her out. He takes Sam on a date, and they are steady for a couple of months. They split on good terms at the end.

 Tony has the same line of thought, and he dates Tiberius Stone for a while. Both Bucky and Natasha hate him, but Tony doesn’t know why. Ty is cultured and handsome, a real catch. So, what if he verbally abuses him and guilt-trips him? That’s the way his father always treats him. Isn’t it normal?

 Natasha doesn’t date. She doesn’t care to. If people want to speculate, she doesn’t care. She’s only sixteen, why does it matter if she doesn’t have a partner? Her fathers tell her to take her time, and if she never wants to date, that’s her say.

 When they graduate, Tony goes to MIT. Natasha gets in at Stanford, and Bucky’s parents can only afford for him to go to NYU. Tony offers to pay for a better college, but Bucky won’t let him. They keep in contact and see each other every break. Tony finally breaks up with Ty in his freshman year, but he becomes a party animal. Rhodey does his best to keep Tony out of trouble, but even he fails sometimes. When he graduates summa cum laude, he takes his place at Stark Industries. Natasha studies to become a lawyer, and she passes the bar easily. Bucky graduates NYU and saves up enough to buy his own auto repair shop. All are successful and don’t have much time to spend with each other or anyone else, to be fair.

 ++++++

Jan, Tony’s stylist, sets him up on a blind date with a Jimmy because he “works too much.” He shows up at the restaurant she picks out to only find Bucky sitting at the table to which the maître d leads him. “Bucky?”

 “Tony? What are you doing here?” Bucky stands.

 “I’m as confused as you are.” Tony sits at the table. “Jan told me I’d be meeting a Jimmy. Who the hell calls you Jimmy?”

 “Well, she called you Anthony. I can’t believe you let anyone call you Anthony.”

 Tony shoots him a glare. “I don’t. Not sure why she told you that you’d be meeting an Anthony… unless she did this on purpose.”

 “What? The parents figure that if Nat doesn’t want to date either of us, they might as well put us together?” Bucky’s eyes snap.

 “I don’t know.” Tony shrugs. “But it all seems very suspicious, you know? What do you propose we do about it?”

 “I think we should eat dinner and go have fun. We both go home to our own houses afterwards and never try to date again, just to screw ‘em.” Bucky smiles sharply.

 “I like that. Deal.”

 Tony wakes up in Bucky’s bed the next day. “Well, I guess that plan didn’t work out.”

 “Yea… I’m torn up between kicking you out now just to fuck our parents or actually fucking you again,” Bucky comments. “Damn, Tones, you’re amazing.”

 Tony colors. “Yea, I had a lot of experience in college. People still like to say they spent the night with me even though I haven’t slept with someone else for months now. I’ve just been busy.”

 “Same. Who has time to date anymore?” Bucky shakes his head. “It’s a shame because I would love to have nights like last night more often.” He straightens completely and raises a finger. “I have an idea, and you may not like it, but here me out. What if we were each other’s booty calls? Just whenever we need a quick smash, we text the other?”

 “James Buchanan Barnes, you are a fucking genius. I would kiss you right now, except my PA’s probably calling my dead phone, wondering where the hell I am. Can we rain check the next session?” Tony hops out of bed, pulling on his pants. Once quickly dressed, he heads to the door to leave and blows Bucky a kiss on his way out.

 Using his watch to ping his driver, Tony heads home to get changed before going to work an hour late. Howard doesn’t berate him as much for being late for work, so Tony wonders if he knew something about his date with Bucky. The thought leaves his mind as he gets started on his day. He doesn’t have time to think about dates or meddling parents.

 As the months go by, both Tony and Bucky text in claims to their booty call agreement. Tony is happy to do so, but he finds himself catching feelings for Bucky. He wonders if it’s because Bucky is the only one that he’s in close contact with, which he mentions to Rhodey when they get lunch on Rhodey’s first day on leave.

 “I mean, I don’t think it’s a good idea to be fucking the only person you have a steady friendship with.” Rhodey steals one of Tony’s fries.

 Tony pouts. “Don’t be like that honeybear. You and Pepper are my friends, too.”

 “Yea, but I’m in the Air Force more than 80% of the time, and Pepper works for you. It’s different.”

 “You’re just jealous that you’re not getting any.” Tony decides.

 Rhodey just smiles. “Says who?”  Tony begins to assault Rhodey for details, the topic of Bucky forgotten.

++++++

“Hey, Natasha’s moving back to New York, apparently.” Bucky informs Tony one morning. “My mom just texted me.”

 Tony groans. “If this becomes another ‘Why don’t you date her?’ thing, I swear I’m going to move to Tahiti and not accept any long-distance calls. You’re welcome to come with if you’d like.”

 “I think we should take her out to dinner one night when she gets settled, just to catch up.” Bucky muses. “Then our parents can’t be mad because we didn’t try.”

 “Yea, I wonder how she’s been. We haven’t talked in so long.” Tony agrees. “I wonder if she got a partnership here or something. I hope so. That’d be good for her.”

 “Nick and Phil will be glad to have her back. If only my parents were as supportive as they are. You should have seen my dad when I told them I was opening my own auto shop.” Bucky smiles that unhappy smile.

 Tony laughs mirthlessly. “I’d be happy if my parents talked to me at all. But being that Howard’s always cranky anymore, I guess it’s best that he doesn’t.”

 ++++++ Natasha moves back less than a month later with a short, sandy haired man in tow. They move into an apartment on the Upper East side. Once she’s settled, she agrees to meet Bucky and Tony for dinner. About ten minutes in, she asks them, “How long have you two been together?”

 “Did someone tell you that we’re together?” Tony demands. “Because they’re wrong. We’re simply booty calls to each other.”

 She shakes her head. “No, you’re not. You might like to think that, but you’re in love with each other. No one told me; I can see it from here.”

 The two men shift in their seats, not daring to look at the other. “So how have you been?” Bucky asks her.

 “Busy. Jenn and I are setting up our own partnership. We’ve gotten a lot of cases lined up, and we need a secretary.  There’re two lawyers working pro bono mostly down in Hell’s Kitchen. We might add them to our firm and pick up their secretary as well. I saw them in court for the Punisher trials, and she seems to have her stuff in order.” She takes a sip of her drink. “Sorry for not keeping up with you guys. I barely even talk to Bruce and Carol.”

 “Mom told me you brought a man home with you,” Bucky says. “She didn’t seem too happy about it. Are you two dating?”

 “Clint? No, he’s just a friend. I’m too busy to date, honestly. I’ve tried a couple times in LA, but it turns out I’m very selective of those with which I choose to hang out. Most men are idiots, and I’m tragically straight. You see my problem, right?”

 “We don’t feel your pain, but we understand,” Tony says. “Well, what we should do is make sure the three of us hang out at least once a month. If we want to bring our other friends, I don’t care, but I’ve sorely missed you, Nat. And Bucky, maybe we should spend more time together with our clothing on.”

 “You say that now, but what about tonight when…” Bucky begins but stops when Natasha gives him her death glare. “Okay, that is still as frightening as ever. Is that how you win all your cases?”

 “No. I’m skilled enough that I don’t need to use that.” Nat flips her hair. “But I’m glad it works on you.”

 Tony stick out his tongue at Bucky. “She’d never kill me. Who would give her those amazing scalp massages?”

 “Now that you’ve brought it up, I demand one once we leave the restaurant.”

 Natasha goes home that night realizing that she missed out on a lot of Tony and Bucky’s lives. If she were being honest, and she is, she kind of relied on their parents’ hope that she would one day marry one of the two. She always acted the way she did because she was equally attracted to both of them, and she would never be able to choose. So, she moved away and let them get on with their lives. She never thought once that they would choose each other and leave her out. She tells this to Clint when she gets home.

 “Talk to them. Maybe they’ll share.” Clint suggests before he falls asleep on the couch.

 She rolls her eyes. “You have a room for a reason.” Natasha knows he’ll still be there when she gets up to go to work the next morning.

 ++++++

The trio meets up at least twice a month. Per Natasha’s goading, Bucky and Tony start to actually date. She’s happy for them but seeing them sometimes is bittersweet. She just wants to go back to the times where they didn’t have to worry about feelings. All feelings have done for her were made her sad.

 One night, they’re eating takeout in Tony’s kitchen when he says, “You can kill me if we’re wrong, but I want to proposition something with you.”

 Natasha raises an eyebrow. This ought to be interesting. Tony proceeds. “So, Bucky and I are very happy in our relationship, but it could use one more thing… you.”

 “Me?”

 “Yea. We both really like you, and we kind of got the feeling that you like us, too. Are we wrong?” Bucky bites his lip worriedly.

 “No, you’re not wrong. I really like both of you. I have since we were kids. I just never wanted to choose between the two of you. When you got together, I was happy for you. I never thought that you’d both want me as well.”

 “Why wouldn’t we want you?” Tony asks. “We love you so much. Obviously, we’ll have to talk about how this is going to work. I hear communication is key to any good relationship. I should know.”

“Also, if we all date, that’s one way to make sure our parents don’t get exactly what they want. Instead of you choosing one of us, you chose both.”

 Natasha grins. This is a fine arrangement indeed. “I would invite you back to my place, but Clint’s there. Would one of yours work?”

 “It’d have to be Tony’s. I just moved in two weeks ago.” Bucky jabs his thumb at his boyfriend.

 ++++++

Natasha’s parents are overjoyed when they hear the news, Bucky’s parents don’t say anything, but Bucky knows they are a little wary of his relationship. Tony’s parents, on the other hand, are very vocal. Howard has a yelling fit, screaming at Tony until he loses his voice. Maria asks him why he vexes his father like that.

 When Bucky and Nat try to comfort him, he shrugs them off, saying, “That’s the first real conversation I’ve had with either of my parents since I was a kid. Don’t worry; I always knew Howard would have a problem with it.”

 “It still sucks,” Bucky tells him. “No matter what, you’ve got us.”

 Tony knows he’s happy when both his partners cuddle around him in the middle of their California King bed. Throughout all odds, the trio is back together.

#winterironwidow #childhood friends au #au_gust_2020 #Starkbucksbingo2020 #i write!

[luv-surveys]

45

Have you ever started reading a book and wondered if you’d read it before? yes i have. What has been bothering you a lot lately? the fact that i’m sick and super behind on all of my homework but can’t do anything about it. What (or who) have you been missing lately? i’ve been missing home lately since i’m going home this weekend for the first time in a few months. Are you trustworthy? i’d like to believe so. Did your parents teach that white lies were ok? they never specified but i was taught that lies in general are bad. Have you ever hallucinated? yes. Do you sleep with your door open or closed? i sleep with my bedroom door open, but i sleep with my dorm door closed. What flags do you have in your room, if any? i don’t have any flags. What (or who) is the best thing that ever happened to you? i’d probably say beginning to play music in fourth grade, as that really set me down the path that i’m on right now as a student in music school. What is the worst decision you ever made? probably beginning to let my anxiety control me -- it led me down a path that i’m still recovering from, a year later. Do you miss college? no, given that i’m in college right now... Have you ever called a teacher “mom”? i once called my french teacher “mom” because i accidentally said “madame” without the d so it sounded like “ma-ame” = “mom.” What is your favorite arcade game? probably skee-ball. i used to play that all the time growing up. Do you feel neglected? no. What school subject(s) are/were your best? definitely french and english. Are you allergic to grass? no. Do you remember to water plants? no... hence why i don’t own plants anymore. What season is your birthday in? it’s in fall. Name 3 creative people you know. my friend sophie, my friend danielle, and my friend dan. Name 3 YouTubers you aspire to be like. i’d say aspen ovard, jasmine from tbhstudying, and ava jules. What color was your first car? i’ve never owned a car. What year did you graduate? i graduated this year, 2020. When was the last time you saw the person you currently have feelings for? last saturday. Have you ever been scammed? yes. Are you allergic to pollen? yes :( What style of wedding dress do you like best? probably ballgown. Are you over your first love? i’m like 90% there. Do you talk on the phone a lot? pretty often. Would you rather call or text? probably text. Do you always answer your phone? no, i only answer if i recognize the number. When was the last time you went to a party? there really haven’t been any parties since quarantine started, but my friend did have a birthday in may, so probably then. What was the last thing you ate? chicken noodle soup. What’s the last book you checked out from the library? i checked out like nine books, all young adult fantasy. Do you have a twitter? no. If so, what was the last thing you tweeted? nothing. Who was the last person you talked to on the phone? the guy i’m seeing. What’s the last thing you cooked on the stove? pancakes. What color is the cover of the last notebook you used? white and gold. Who was the last person you know to have a birthday? a girl on my snap. Who sent the last e-mail you got? my flute professor responding to my email about a rental. What song is currently stuck in your head? “look what you made me do” by taylor swift Do you have a favorite shape? probably circle. What color are the sheets on your bed? at home, they’re yellow. in my dorm, they’re pink, What time do you usually go to bed? usually, i go to bed between 11 and 12. Do you ever use coloring books? no. Are you planning on watching the Olympics? when they actually happen, yes. Do you pronounce the word “often” with or without a “t” in the middle? with the t. Have you ever been on a trapeze? no. Do you enjoy popping bubble wrap? yes of course. Are there any waterfalls near where you live? no. Do you like seafood? not particularly -- i do like shrimp, though. Have you ever had to wear a uniform for anything? yes, for marching band. If so, what did it look like? it was a maroon jacket, black bibbers, black long socks, black marching shoes, white gauntlets, white gloves, and a maroon shako. and under we had to wear our tour shirts and spandex/leggings. Do you personally know anyone who is an author? yes, my dad is. Do you own a Polaroid camera? nope. Do you enjoy baking? i love baking! What’s your favorite type of flower? right now, daisies. Last time (if ever) you were on an airplane, where were you going? home from florida. Do you know anyone who is left-handed? i have a couple left-handed friends and family members. What is something you think is underrated? probably classical music. too many people think it’s boring but there are some really amazing pieces. Around what temperature do you consider it to be too hot outside? probably around 85 degrees. In what ways do you expect your life to be different one year from now? i expect covid to not be as big of an issue. How often do you travel outside of the state/province you live in? probably around once a month at most. What’s a hobby you used to have, but don’t anymore? definitely reading. i used to read all the time, and now i just don’t have the time or motivation. What has been your favorite job you’ve had so far? i’ve never had a job. What’s your favorite kind of salsa/dip to go with tortilla chips? probably guacamole. Do you wash your car by hand or drive through a car wash? i don’t have a car. Where is the farthest north you’ve traveled to? alaska. Farthest south? florida. East? russia. West? again, alaska. How often do you run the dishwasher? at my house, we run the dishwasher every night. Do you wash your face at the sink or in the shower? i wash it in the shower. Name a stereotype about your gender that you don’t fit. i don’t enjoy wearing dresses whatsoever. Name a stereotype about your age that you don’t fit. i don’t have any interest in trying drugs or smoking. Do you have any unusual decorations in your home? we have a “butler” named jeeves, a family of elephants on a window sill facing away from the front door for good luck, and a couple other things. Do you have any uncommon kitchen appliances, such as espresso machines, waffle irons, etc? we have a panini maker and other things like that. What did your parents major/minor in in college, if they went? my mom majored in psychology while my dad majored in business. Has either of their careers influenced what career you chose or want to pursue? nope. What is the highest level math class you’ve completed? precalculus. How old were you when you learned how to ride a bike? probably around 7. How old were you when you learned how to swim? i’d say 10ish. How do you react when someone is rude to you? i get annoyed but try to remain sweet and kind so i don’t stoop to their level/they don’t have anything against me. Have you ever had a friend who was too clingy? yes, and it was annoying. What kind of natural disaster is most common where you live? probably snowstorms/blizzards. Why is your least favorite season your least favorite? i hate winter because it’s cold and depressing. Do you have a Netflix account? yes. Have you ever had an animal get into your attic? yeah, occasionally that happens. Where is your favorite place to go on vacation? i enjoy traveling to europe since there’s so much history there. How long does it take to get there? it’d be about a six hour flight. When was the last time you started a “new chapter” of your life? this fall when i started college. What room in your home do you spend the least amount of time in? i’d say our downstairs bathroom -- i never use that bathroom. What is the last random act of kindness you did? i can’t really remember since i’ve been alone and sick for the past few days. Do you do anything to reduce the amount of electricity you use? not really... Are you usually open to trying a new food that you aren’t familiar with? yes, but if it’s some type of body part (like liver) then no. Do you listen to Panic! At The Disco? no. Have you ever had a kinky dream about a celebrity? nope. Is there a song you can’t stop listening to atm? not currently. Has anyone ever told you that they loved you, and you couldn’t say it back? no. If your Facebook status doesn’t get any likes/comments, does it bother you? i never post on facebook. Which friend do you confide in most? the guy i’m seeing haha. Do you wear a cross? no. What is your opinion on Arby’s? it’s good and their fries are amazing. When you have your own kitchen, how will it be done? i’d like an island definitely, and lots of counter space. i’d want it to be an open layout too. What is your favorite doughnut? probably jelly. Do you have a hot tub? If so, where is it located? no way. Did you read the Twilight series, or jump on the bandwagon after the movie? i have never read the entire series or been interested in it. What is your favorite party game? wii party or cards against humanity. Do you or your parents rake your yard? my parents do. Were you pro-Obama? nope, but i couldn’t vote anyway. What is your favorite scent from Bath & Body Works? i think a thousand wishes?  What was the last illegal thing you did? probably speeding when i was driving. Who did you last go to the movies with? i think my sister, her boyfriend, and my ex. What color was the last vehicle you were in? white. Do you have any family members in the military right now? nope. Is there a ceiling fan in the room you’re in? no. When was the last time you wished time would move faster? during my class earlier today. Are there any owls in your room (as decor, of course)? nope. Have you ever heard voices? Audibly? no. Do you believe in angels and demons? yes. Who is the worst neighbor you have ever had? we have neighbors that accuse us of things we don’t do and get into fights with us over stupid things. Did your Barbies go on dates? yes! If you’re not straight, who was the first person you came out to? i’m straight. Where did you meet your first crush? school. Do you remember the first time your first crush ever said hi to you? nope. Do you ever go places with wet hair? occasionally, but i try not to. Who is your favorite little girl? probably my cousin. What do you want the most in life? happiness. What is a decision you’ve made that changed your entire life? my college decision. Do you ever wonder what kind of person you’d have turned out to be if a certain event never happened to you? occasionally, yeah. When you’re home alone, do you still shower with the bathroom door closed? yep, i keep it closed and locked. If you could have anyone’s singing voice, whose would you choose? maybe ariana grande. What are your top 3 favorite genres of music? classical, jazz, and electroswing. Where did you buy your dishes from? i’m pretty sure my mom gets them from williams-sonoma. Do you think Mars will be colonized in your lifetime? not in my lifetime. What’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought that turned out to be a waste of money? probably some type of appliance that i never use. What’s something you’ve bought that turned out to be way more useful than you anticipated? my shower shoes! Have you ever been on a ship? yeah. Do you ever take intentional breaks from checking/posting on social media? nope. Who was Van Halen’s better singer - David Lee Roth, or Sammy Hagar? i don’t know what you’re talking about lol. Which fictional character has the most memorable quotes? maybe dumbledore from harry potter? i can’t think of anyone off the top of my head. What’s a class you did not take in school, but now wish you had? forensic sciences. Have you ever been to either of your parents’ workplaces? all the time. What do you think of the ‘Healthy At Every Size’ movement/philosophy? no... not every size is healthy bruh. Have you ever been bitten so hard that their teeth marks were there after? yes. Ever been given a hickey? (Love bite) yeah. Ever gave one? nope. Are you more of an outgoing type or shy type? more shy. Do you think it’s weird if guys wear make-up like eyeliner? nah. Are you self conscious? If so what are you self conscious about? a lot, but mainly my height and paleness. Are you flirty at all? sometimes. Are you racist at all? no. Would you ever date a disabled person? (Be honest) depends on the disability, but more likely than not, no. If you found a baby randomly by itself what would you do? probably look around for parents, and if they’re not there, contact authorities. Would you rather adopt or have your own child? i’d rather have my own. What would you class as cheating on someone? purposefully seeking a romantic relationship/interaction with another person. Do you try to be politically correct? i try to. What’s your favorite kind of sea critter? maybe starfish. Have you ever tasted locally-made honey before? no. As far as earrings go, would you rather wear hoops or studs? hoops! Do you find P.E. humiliating, or think schools shouldn’t teach it? i don’t think it’s humiliating, but from my experience, i don’t know if it’s worth teaching. Do you recycle? yeah. Are you interested in current world issues? for the most part. Do you think you are mature, or immature? mostly mature. What kind of career are you interested in? i’m interested in teaching or performing music. Do you own a pair of sunglasses? yes. Do you use bobby pins, hair clips, or elastic hair ties? Which? i use all of the above. How badly do you get acne? (If at all) i barely get any acne. What’s the best way to cope with a breakup? remember all the things you hated about them and distract yourself. also, a glow-up and showing off your successes never hurts. If someone dislikes you, what is most likely to be the reason? probably because they think i’m egotistical. How many text messages do you have in your inbox atm? 72. When was the last time you had a difficult decision to make? probably deciding whether or not i should stay with the guy i’m seeing. In school, what subjects do/did you find the most difficult? math! Do you still speak to the person you had your first kiss with? not really. Where did you meet the last person you swapped numbers with? here at college. Who was the last person to add you as a friend on Facebook? a kid from my theory class. Who was the last person that asked if you were okay? my roommate, because i’ve been unhealthy. What does your handwriting look like? it’s pretty bubbly and very neat. Do you use any products on your hair, other than shampoo and conditioner? yes, i use dry shampoo and dry conditioner. Who were your best friends in primary school? lindsey. Do you still speak to any of them? nope. What was the last thing you bought from a vending machine? i think candy. What color hair did your first crush have? blond. What type of shoes do you find the most comfortable? moccasins! Are you more masculine or feminine? more feminine, definitely. If you could design your own mug, what would you put on it? something minimalist, like a tiny illustration. What is the best beach you’ve been to? the beach at ocean city, maryland. What is one thing you physically can’t do? i cannot do a pull-up, nope. Have you ever been to a funeral? yep. Have you ever visited your state’s capitol building? no. Have you ever visited your nation’s capitol building? yes. Do/did you have a favorite seat in church? yeah, the one on the left close to the front. What is your favorite park? probably six flags? or disney? Have you ever felt an earthquake? nope. Do you chew gum regularly? no. Where did you go on your first train ride? i think when i was a baby. Do you know anyone with a dual citizenship? yep. What sports teams do you root for, if any? (Extra points for Boston fans.) i don’t root for any sports teams. Do you dunk your cookies in milk? no ma’am. What is something you are confident about? my eye color. Have you ever been physically addicted to a substance? What? i’ve been addicted to afrin during colds, but i always manage to tear myself away. How do you feel about needles? they’re not great, but i’m not particularly scared of them. What is your favorite accent to listen to? i love scottish accents. What was the reason you last got dressed up? church. Have you ever been the subject of cruel rumors? not really. ^ What were they? -- Do you prefer loose or form-fitting clothing? more form-fitting. ^ What about on your preferred gender? more form-fitting as well. What do you do when you are really, really mad? i go somewhere to be alone so i can cool off. Would you rather go naked than wear fur? i’d rather wear fur, but i wouldn’t like it. Do you put a line through your 7’s? no. ^ What about your Z’s? nope. What is one thing that someone could do to you that is unforgivable? cheat on me if we’re in a relationship. Are you able to forgive and forget? it’s hard, but sometimes. Do you like cold pizza? no. What is your favorite fruit? pineapple! What about your favorite fruit juice, if it differs from solid fruit? white grape juice has my heart. Do you like broccoli and cheese? i’ve never had it but it sounds yummy. What about potatoes and cheese? oh yeah that’s good. Have you written a letter by hand, lately? To whom? yep, to the guy i’m seeing. Toaster or toaster oven? toaster. What are you most known for? being a musician haha. Do you have any reputations? What are they? i don’t believe so. Do you wear band shirts? nope. ^ What band was on the last one you wore? -- Do you own any hats? Describe them. yeah, i own a black adidas cap and a white cap. What about masks, you got any? Describe those. oh, i have plenty... thanks covid. i have a black one, a white one, a pink one, a brown one, a green camo one, and a blue floral one. What was the last thing to leave you speechless? probably my flu since it hurts to talk LOL. Do your parents like your friends? If they don’t, why not? yep. Have you been called a bad influence? no way. Describe your favorite pair of socks. i like all my pairs of black socks. Have you experienced any life-changing news, events, etc, lately? not really. Have any self-done piercings? nope. Ever pierced someone else? nooo. Do you get distracted easily? sometimes, but not if i’m focused on homework. Is talking to strangers enjoyable for you, or stressful? it’s stressful usually. How do you feel about getting new neighbors? it’s exciting! How many ceiling fans are in your home? one. Do you tweet your life away? nope. How do you feel about shameless self promoting? i don’t mind it if it isn’t too in the way. When reading words. like. this. do. you always pause after the periods? yep. What about screaming when reading something IN ALL CAPS? uh-huh.

[lovemesomesurveys]

Is your nose stuffed up at the moment? Nope.

Do you like apples? Not especially. I couldn’t even tell you the last time I had one.

Do you ever read the newspaper? No. I read my news online for the most part and catch some on TV.

Is anyone in your house sick? No.

Someday do you ever want to go and see the Egyptian pyramids? Damn, it’s almost a 16 hour flight to Egypt from California.

Have you ever seen the Statue of Liberty? No. I’ve never even been to New York.

When’s the last time you got your hair cut? Back in February.

When’s the last time you rode a bike? Never.

Spring or summer? Spring out of the two, but meh. It means summer is next and that I don’t like.

Do you like to go sledding in the winter? I’ve never done it.

Do any of your friends’ boyfriend/girlfriends annoy you? I don’t have friends.

What time is it? 5:24AM.

Will you be calling someone tomorrow? No.

Have you smiled today? Yeah.

Do you wish you could start over with anyone? Sometimes.

Do you like Kid Cudi? I liked Day ‘n’ Nite. Whatever happened to him?

Or, who is your favorite rapper? Some that I listen to are Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, Nicki Minaj,  Drake, Post Malone, Travis Scott, DaBaby, Roddy Ricch, Bryson Tiller, Tory Lanez...

Have you ever created a survey? Once, a longggg time ago. Like, during the Xanga days sometime. 

Where were you today? I’m at home and that’s where I’ll stay. 

When was the last time you had to give bad news? I’m usually the one receiving the bad news.

Were you sad today? Sad is one of my personality traits.

Do you take any foreign language classes? I’m not in school anymore, but I did in high school and one semester in college.

When’s the last time you received bad news? My doctor wanting me to do ridiculous xrays that aren’t necessary and then throwing in the possibility of doing a spinal cord stimulator and I’m like yeah, absolutely not.

Are your parents together or divorced? They’re still together.

Is there one person you look at and automatically smile? My doggo.

Who are you texting? No one.

What are you doing later on? My Bible study.

Do you wish anyone in particular was still in your life? Yeah, a few people.

Who was the last person you were on the phone with? My mom.

What makes you happy? My doggo, trips to the beach, Disneyland, binging a show with my mom, that first sip of coffee, when it rains, fall, the holidays.

Ever liked someone older than you? Only by a couple years.

Which did you discover first, myspace or Facebook? Myspace. I’m old.

Have you kissed a: A, B, C, D, E, G, K, U, Q, V, T ? D and G. 

What was the last thing you ate and why? Ramen. I like having my nightly bowl of ramen, it’s my thing.

What was the last thing you drank and why? Starbucks Doubleshot energy drink cause I like ‘em.

How many tabs do you have open and what are they? 10: 2 are Tumblr related (1 is my dash and the other is my likes), YouTube, Pinterest, 2 LiveJournal survey blogs, Facebook, a Christian radio website page relating to something my church is doing, a website with different prayers and scriptures related to them, and Spotify. 

What browser do you prefer to use? I only use Chrome.

What’re five random things on your desk besides any computer-related items? I don’t have a desk.

What room are you in right now? Mine.

What color are the walls and floor in that room? White walls, tan carpet.

What’re the items closest to you that’re red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, white, gray, brown, black, silver and gold? Red: Red and black plaid throw pillow. Orange: Orange highlighter.  Yellow: Yellow highlighter. Green: Baby Yoda plushie. Blue: Mist fan. Purple: There’s some purple on one of my pillows. Pink: Bottle of Pepto Bismol. White: There’s white on my Starbucks Doubleshot energy drink can. Grey: My remote.  Brown: My Baby Yoda plushie is wearing brown. Black: Laptop keyboard. Silver: My laptop. Gold: A gold garland strand across my dresser from last Christmas. :X

Out of all the things you listed above, which is your favorite? Baby Yoda plushie! 

What kind of chair are you sitting in? I’m sitting on my bed.

Where would you prefer to be right now? I want to be right here.

Do you have any plans this weekend? No.

Are you excited for anything this month? This month is just about over, so I’m hoping it starts to cool down soon.

What’s the date today? It’s September 28th.

Is there anything special about today? No.

How’re you physically feeling right now? Tired and my stomach is messing with me.

How’re you emotionally feeling right now? Blah.

Have you ever traveled outside of your home country? I’ve been to Mexico once.

Can you speak, read and/or write in another language besides English? Some Spanish.

What language course did you take in school, if any? Four years of Spanish in high school and one semester in college.

What language would you most like to learn? I’d like to be fluent in Spanish.

What grade are you in right now? I’m done with school.

What would you like to get a degree in? I have my BA in psych.

What was you dream job when you were a little kid? I wanted to be a teacher.

What happened to that dream? I decided it wasn’t what I wanted to do anymore when I got older. I didn’t feel cut out to teach.

Speaking of dreams, when was the last time you had a sleeping dream and what was it about? I always have the most random, weirdest dreams.

Do you have more nightmares or good dreams? Mostly just random and weird.

Do you wake up a lot in the middle of the night? I’m always up all night, so no.

Can you sleep comfortably in another bed besides your own? I can sleep fine in hotel beds. Those are the only other beds I sleep in.

What book are you reading, what genre is it and do you like it so far? “Say You Love Me” by Willow Rose. It’s a murder-mystery and thriller. It’s the 4th book in a series and I’ve really enjoyed them all so far. They’ve all had a really crazy twist I didn’t see coming.

Are you a shorts wearing kind of person? Nope. I never wear shorts.

Is your grandparents’ house obsessively tidy? Yeah.

About how much can you bench press? I can’t at all.

Do you get embarrassed easily? Yes.

Is dinner done yet? It’s 7 in the morning.

Have you ever had your phone die on you in the middle of a conversation? I’m sure it’s happened before.

Is anybody in your family a carpenter? No.

Are you avoiding someone? You could say that.

How social are you? I don’t have a social life at all anymore. 

What’s your favorite primary color? Yellow. 

What were you for Halloween? I stopped dressing up a few years ago.

Do you like hot chocolate? Yeah.

What do you have pierced? Just my earlobes.

What’s your favorite type of tea? Mint or chamomile. 

Do you have any clothes from Walmart? I have a couple shirts.

Are you hungry? Kind of, but my stomach is feeling a little meh.

When did you get a Facebook? Back in 2008.

What color are your eyes? Brown.

How’re you feeling? Tired and blah.

What motivates you? I haven’t felt motivated in a long time...

Can you walk in heels? No.

When was the last time someone asked you your age? I get asked often in surveys.

Why are you taking this survey? I want to.

Do you ever sing in the shower? Yeah.

Do you keep a journal? This is my journal. I share a lot in these surveys.

When is your favorite time of day? When I have my first cup of coffee and the late and early hours when I do my usual routine of surveys and ASMR videos.

How often do you get headaches? Often. 

Have you ever tried a weird flavor of vodka? I had caramel vodka before. I don’t think that’s weird, though.

Do you wear a ring on your finger? Nope.

What are you doing? Besides the obvious, I’m listening to an ASMR video.

What’s the last kind of soup you ate? Ramen.

Do you currently have a sunburn? No. I wasn’t able to have my beach trips this year, which is the only time I spend a significant amount of time outdoors. I’ve hardly been out of the house at all since March.

Could you eat nothing but grilled cheese for a week straight? No.

Have you ever thought about getting your nose pierced? Nah.

Who did you last text? My mom.

Who’d you last call? About what? My mom to ask her something.

Are you currently frustrated with someone? No one but myself.

Have you graduated from high school? Yeah, back in 2008...

Did you receive a good morning text today? I don’t receive those.

Will you be having sex tonight? No.

Do you drink hard liquor? No, I don’t drink anymore.

Have you met anyone new yet today? No. I highly doubt I will.

Do you drink water or soda more often? Water.

Do you straighten your hair? No.

When did you last talk to your brother or sister? Last night.

If you have younger siblings, how old were you when your siblings were born? I was 9 when my brother was born.

Do you watch the Big Bang Theory? No, I never could get into it.

Would you ever pick up gum from the ground and eat it? What in the actual.... NO. Ew, who the hell would do that???

Have you ever gotten stitches? Yeah, several times.

Do you pluck your eyebrows? Yeah.

Think back to the last thing you drank. Did you drink it using a straw? Yeah, I always use a straw.

Do you ever listen to country music? Sometimes.

This time last year were you happier then or now? Neither then or now.

Does your bathroom have a theme to it? No.

From inside of your house, how many doors lead outside? Two.

Do you sometimes use your music player to help you fall asleep? No.

What’s your favorite music video at the moment? I don’t watch music videos anymore. I miss the TRL days, I always looked forward to the top countdown and new video releases.

Can you play the violin? No. I took violin in 4th grade, but I just didn’t enjoy it. Me and the violin didn’t vibe like the piano and I did. I stuck it out for the year and then I was done.

Is the sun shining? Yeah.

Where did you go today? Nowhere.

Have you ever taken a survey while under the influence of drugs or alcohol? Yeah.

Where will you be in an hour? Right here in bed.

Is anyone irritating you? No.

Did you wake up in the middle of the night last night? I haven’t gone to bed, yet. 

The last time you burned your tongue or mouth, what were you eating? Probably ramen.

Have your parents ever threatened to throw your things away because your room was messy? No.

Is there any one food you constantly find yourself craving? Boneless wings from Wingstop.

What’s the longest time you’ve ever spent in front of the computer doing surveys? Well, my nightly routine consists of doing surveys. It’s usually between the hours of like 3AM to 7AM. Some of that time is also spent scrolling through my dash, but for the most part it’s doing surveys.

Name someone with big eyes. *shrug*

Do you like the humidity? Nooo.

Who will you hang out with next? My family.

Is your shirt pink? No.

What’s something fuzzy near you? Giraffe stuffed animal.

Are you going to do more surveys? Maybe. I should be going to bed, though...

Who is the most complicated person in your life right now? Me.

Are there a lot of trees in your yard? No, just one.

Did the last type of shoes you wore have laces? Yeah. 

How much money do you have on you right now? Some.

Are you CPR certified? No.

What genre is your favorite movie? I have several favorite movies that fall under the horror, psychological thriller, drama, romantic comedy, comedy, fantasy, and sci-fi genres. 

Are you texting anybody right now? No.

Who was the last person you were in a car with? My mom.

Do you like the picture on your license/I.D. card? No.

What’s your favorite thing to snack on while watching a movie? If I go to the theater then I gotta have popcorn.

When was the last time somebody hit on you? It’s been years.

Was the last person you met a male or female? Female.

Which one of your friends do you feel most comfortable around?

Do you own a map of the world? No.

What brand is your underwear? They’re from JCP.

What’s your favorite Thanksgiving food? Mashed potatoes and gravy and the stuffing.

Is the light on in the room you’re in? Nope.

Who did you last spoon with? I haven’t spooned with anyone.

Are you currently watching TV? It’s on, but I’m not watching it at the moment cause I’m watching/listening to an ASMR video.

Have you ever had surgery ? I’ve had several.

Do you own any clothing that has animal print? No.

Does your family eat dinner together? Sometimes.

Where do you work? I don’t.

Are you in high school? No. I’ve been out of high school for well over a decade now.

Do you have a TV in your room? Yep.

Are any of your electronics charging right now? My phone, laptop, and Nintendo Switch.

What was the last video game you played? Animal Crossings: New Horizons.

#personal #text #survey #surveys #long survey

[thedistantdusk]

Heyyyyyy idk if you do asks but could you write about Harry figuring out he wants kids? 😍

I’ve never actually taken a Tumblr ask before… but this was an amazing prompt! Thanks! :D

(On AO3) 

Harry hadn’t really thought about babies before. He’d abstractly thought they were cute in their own way — little potato blobs that pooped and cried and gradually became more humanlike.Although Harry doesn’t properly meet Teddy until the war is over (and doesn’t even hold him until mid-May), he automatically knows his godson differs from the nameless, faceless babies he’s seen before. In retrospect, this should have been Harry’s first clue that perhaps part of him — a part that had been asleep for years, or perhaps one that had never truly woken at all — was finally stretching and rising. But even after all that, Harry reckons he’s a bit thick, because it still takes him until July to make the biggest discovery of all.Weekend trips to the Tonks house quickly become customary following the war. Andromeda’s a middle-aged woman raising an infant entirely alone; like everyone else in her position, she needs a break from time to time. She’d conveyed early on that weekends are the hardest, as she’s been with the baby for five straight days — and Harry and Ginny are happy to help. They’ve gladly traveled to her home every Saturday afternoon for months, and thus far, every trip has been simple and endearing. They’ve each enjoyed the little slices of domesticity, little glimpses into normal life, little breaks between the mourning (and shagging), and grieving (and more shagging) and rebuilding (so much shagging).Right away, though, Harry knows this particular trip will be different. Even from the exterior of the house, Harry can tell that Andromeda is struggling. Weeds have overgrown normally immaculately maintained garden, her rose bushes are unpruned, and her lawn is longer than Harry’s ever seen it. Harry vows to help her with yard work as he and Ginny approach the door — and although he feels like nothing malicious is to blame for any of these deviations from the norm, he instinctively knows that a relaxing afternoon is not what the universe has in store. The moment they step over the threshold, this prediction proves correct.Instead of rushing to greet them with tea and biscuits, an exhausted Andromeda is pacing the foyer, bouncing a pink-haired, fussing Teddy on her shoulder. She gives them a weak smile and offers a half-hearted apology for the mess and her attire and the garden, because Teddy’s teething, and it’s been —But Harry never finds out how it’s been, because Ginny won’t let her get that far. 

Her red hair trails behind her as she swoops in with soothing words and a gentle pat on the arm and a soft reassurance to the older woman that it’ll be fine. Although she’s nearly thirty years her junior, Ginny’s presence has a calming effect; Harry’s not surprised when Andromeda visibly sags in relief. Harry is surprised, though, when Andromeda walks up to him and nonchalantly plops Teddy into his arms without a single forewarning.Harry accepts his godson, of course — though he can’t help but look startled while he does it. Maybe one day he’ll get used to this custom of people so cavalierly handing over something so precious. Now, though, he’s mostly worried about the plans Ginny’s committing them to while he’s busy holding the baby; Andromeda swiftly explains that she hasn’t been to the shops in ages — and that she positively needs to get out of the house. Ginny instantaneously volunteers to watch Teddy, but all Harry can do is give her a wide-eyed, horrified look: How the hell are they meant to function without an actual adultIt’s no matter, though, because they clearly don’t have a choice. The older woman is ready to leave in a flash — and Harry now realizes (because, again, he’s quite thick) that she’d merely been waiting for them to arrive. Andromeda wraps Ginny in a warm embrace, and Harry shoots his girlfriend a weary look from over her shoulder (Are you sure about this?). Ginny arches an eyebrow at him (No, but we’re doing it anyway) before pulling away from the hug with another calming pat.Then Andromeda offers them a parting wave, turns on the spot, and disappears into thin air.>br/>And with that, Harry and Ginny are off on their first babysitting adventure.>br/>Just the three of them.>br/>Right.

Teddy cuts through the blanketed silence with a little gurgle. Harry glances down just as the baby’s face wrinkles and strains. Harry cautiously leans back, preparing for the explosion that usually accompanies that expression… but instead of expelling something from either end, Teddy lets out a little grunt — and then he shifts, right before Harry’s eyes.Oh. Harry swallows. He’s never seen him do it, not like this… but now the baby’s hair is shifting from pink to black, his eyes from brown to bright greenMerlin…Ginny giggles and sidles up next to them, oblivious to the war waging in Harry’s chest. “Andromeda said he was getting better at this,” she notes, tracing a finger down Teddy’s cherubic little face. “Transforming.” Then she pauses, biting her lip. “Can I—?”Harry clears his throat and passes Teddy into her open hands. He moves mechanically, as if he’s coming out of a trance — but even seeing a baby who looks exactly like him probably wouldn’t have amounted to much…If only Ginny hadn’t taken things one step further.But fortunately (or unfortunately, Harry really can’t decide), she does.The second Teddy’s in Ginny’s arms, the baby’s whimpers turn to gentle sighs. She makes shhing sounds and brings him to her chest as she cradles his head on her shoulder. A soft smile graces her lips before she sinks onto the sofa, and Harry numbly takes the cue to join them.After that, it all happens very quickly.As soon as Ginny props Teddy up in her lap, Harry feels something bubbling in his stomach, something changing him from the inside out, something akin to Polyjuice Potion… except it’s changing his heart, not his hide.Holy mother of God.Harry’s breath freezes in his throat as black-haired Teddy raises a chubby fist. Ginny swoops in to kiss it, tucking a piece of long red hair out of his reach and adjusting him in her lap. She gives Harry a soft smile from over her shoulder; he summons a weak one in return, even though it feels like he’s been socked in the gut.At nearly 18, Harry Potter’s just realized something that would get him into a great deal of trouble if he were to voice it aloud. It’s something he’s confident most teenagers don’t think about much. It’s something that life has never allowed him to consider — or to plan for. Even once.Because Harry’s now certain — beyond any doubt — that he eventually wants a baby.With her.Fuck.He swallows and runs a shaking hand through his hair as Ginny positions Teddy so he’s seated upright. The baby’s green eyes dance with mirth as Ginny coos some vaguely pleasant nonsense, the tips of her red hair brushing her shoulders as she does.Oh, Harry thinks numbly, his heartbeat pounding in his ears. Now they’re playing a game.

Ginny holds Teddy under his arms, leaning in closer and closer to his gummy grin until — at the last second — she makes a chomping sound and kisses him on the nose. Because Teddy’s a baby, he’s surprised every single time; he emits more peals of mirth with every single pass… but after the fifth consecutive time, it’s too much.It’s too, too much.Everything that Harry’s spent seven years denying comes crawling up his throat at the same time. He’s lightheaded and claustrophobic and sick and warm and terrified and thrilled… and he jumps up from the couch and darts to the corridor, muttering something about the toilet as he goes.

Ginny’s confused, “Wha-?” is cut off as he enters the loo and slams the door behind him, all semblance of manners forgotten.Once inside, Harry lurches to the sink, hoping his unsteady legs won’t buckle beneath him on the way. He grips the cool porcelain, slamming his eyes shut, and after several pained seconds, Harry dares to look up at himself in the mirror. He draws deep breaths and wills them to give him some modicum of comfort… and all the while, he tries very hard to pretend that Ginny hadn’t been a vision of femininity and motherhood and perfection and love. That she hadn’t represented every single thing he’s ever wanted.While holding a baby.  Who looks exactly like him.Before he can help it, Harry’s imagination explodes — absolutely explodes. Harry’s already known he wants to marry her; that’s a foregone conclusion, albeit one that’s also abstract and terrifying. For some reason, he’s never factored kids into the mix, too… but suddenly, that’s all he can see.Harry sees Ginny, all glowing and beautiful and pregnant, her bright red hair illuminated by a sunset. He sees himself smiling and caressing her growing bump, kissing her laughing mouth, massaging her back, telling her how much he loves her. Then the scene changes; Ginny’s snuggling a black-haired baby (one who can’t shift the color of his hair) as their little family rests atop a worn blanket. Now Harry sees the baby toddling on unsteady legs, his tongue sticking out in determination as Ginny kneels and cheers him into her arms. Oh, and now there’s a green-eyed, red-haired little girl offering him a flower she’s plucked from the garden. Or maybe multiple little girls. Or boys. Harry’s not fussy, not about any of it. He sees hectic trips to Diagon Alley and enormous family dinners and absolute, unadulterated chaos.And he loves every second of it.Harry swallows, looking away, and a shiver races up his spine.Fucking hell… what has he done? _______

Ginny demands answers the second they reach the path to the Burrow. He’d figured she would; he’s just not sure how to explain this, though, without scaring the shit out of her.Right.Harry draws a deep breath and turns on the spot, preparing to give a reasonable explanation — but Ginny greets him with the same warm, curious look he’d seen in one of his bizarre domestic daydreams. Any thought of handling this well evaporates as quickly as it had arrived.Harry blinks at her a few times, opens his mouth — and then blurts everything out with all the elegance of an oiled gazelle stumbling up a set of stairs. His words run together as a single, unpunctuated entity, and by the time he’s done, he’s impressed Ginny hasn’t run for the hills.“You were holding Teddy and he looked like me and I didn’t know what to do with that because I’ve never thought I had a future before but now I think — no, I know — that I want kids one day. In future. Butonlywithyou. Specifically.”Harry groans and turns away, running a hand down his face.Well, that couldn’t have gone worse.For several pained seconds, he stares at his trainers and tries to negotiate the fact that he’s likely left her completely terrified… but just as it seems all hope is lost, Ginny’s words rip him from his mortified reverie.“Okay,” she starts. To Harry’s surprise, he gets the distinct impression she’s caught between amusement and sympathy. “So, to clarify, you saw me with Teddy. And realized that you might want kids. Eventually. One day. And this is… a huge problem?”He glances up to see a smirk twitching the corners of her lips; he slumps over in relief, but she’s made her point. It does seem a bit stupid, when she puts it like that.Harry spreads his palms and attempts to explain. “I just… I never let myself think beyond Tom, yeah? And now that I have thought beyond him, it kind of just… hit me all at once.” He trails off and looks away, huffing out a sigh that sounds as pathetic as he feels. As usual, though, Ginny knows exactly what he needs. Her little palms slips into his; her touch is soothing and perfect, just as it had been with Andromeda.“Well,” she says slowly, staring at their joined hands. Is he just imagining it, or are her cheeks turning pink? “You happen to be in luck, Harry Potter. Because I might eventually — one day, not now — want kids. With you.”Oh.Harry grins and wonders if she can hear the weight lifting off his shoulders. “Yeah?”Ginny swallows through a curt nod — but that’s her last attempt at sincerity before she starts bantering again. Harry doesn’t care, though; how could he care when he’s this happy?“But I want to emphasize,” Ginny begins again, her tone mock-serious, “that these are to be very specific children. Because I’ll be honest, the concept of kids in general?” She shrugs, making a face. “Never really done it for me. So I reckon I’ll either raise them with you or get loads of cats.”Harry laughs and leans in for a kiss; he has to touch her. Ginny relaxes into him, drawing him against her body — and when she pulls away a few moments later, a sparkle of mischief glints in her eye. “Well,” she sighs, draping her arms around his neck. “I reckon a funeral is in order.”He arches an eyebrow as his palms come to rest on her waist. “A funeral?” he ventures, torn between confusion and delight. It wasn’t too long ago that funerals were something dreadful and never-ending and painful, just another piece of the puzzle in dismantling Tom once and for all.But the smirk twitching the corner of Ginny’s lip tells Harry she’s not thinking about anything dreadful or painful or never-ending. She’s happy… just like he is.Instead, Ginny fixes him with a flat stare. “Here lie Harry’s swimmers,” she says stoically, “stuck in the shallow end for the foreseeable future.” Harry snorts before he catches himself. Usually he’s better at this, at expecting her next line and preparing something in return. This time, though, she’s caught him off guard.It’s not until Ginny clears her throat that he realizes she’s actually expecting an answer.“Erm. How long will they be in purgatory, do you reckon?” she asks, her brown eyes wide and seeking — and Harry recognizes the tone of voice she uses to sound more nonchalant than she feels.He shrugs and turns to walk up the path. Truthfully, he’d be ready whenever… but they’ve got plans. They’ve both got plans. Ginny slips her hand in his again, and when he responds, he tries very hard to pretend that they aren’t hedging around a topic with more gravity than anything they’ve discussed before.“Well,” he says fairly. “We’re each really interested in getting into the other’s trousers. Oh, and as a totally unrelated aside, you’re much better at brewing potions.”Ginny gives a dark chuckle, but he can tell she caught his drift; one look at Teddy solidifies that babies don’t always happen on purpose. “Yeah,” she agrees, “but you’re much better at charms. Let’s just hope our redundancy is idiot-proof.”Harry chortles in understanding as they finally approach the gate to the Burrow, holding it open for her as he does. He’s glad they’re on the same page with that one. The very thought of that conversation with Molly (while Ginny’s still in school) is something that makes his stomach turn… He turns back to face her and gestures for her to head inside — but Ginny’s paused in her tracks, a weird expression on her face.“I guess,” she half-laughs, as if the thought is only just occurring to her, “we… actually have time to talk about this now. Don’t we?”Ginny gives him a hopeful smile as her cheeks turn pink again, and when she bites her lip, Harry feels a near magnetic compulsion to kiss her.

So he does.She responds eagerly, melting against him as her hands clasp around his neck. And in truth, they probably would have been content to deepen the snog with wandering hands and lilting whispers — but then Harry remembers the door not ten meters away. And the fact that it’s broad daylight. He finally sighs and pulls back, although he keeps her body pressed to his. Harry needs to feel her, now more than ever, even if they can’t be nearly as close as they’d like. Matching grins stretch across their faces as his eyes penetrate hers, as his hand comes up to tuck a stray piece of hair behind her ear. Yeah, he thinks, cupping her jaw. We have time.

#harry and ginny #fanfiction #harry potter fanfiction #tumblr asks #hinny fanfic

[trashboatprince]

For BATIM’s second anniversary, how could I not write up something super cute and sweet for the big, beasty, birthday boy! :D

Part of the son beast Bendy au that still needs a name, also includes an oc kid that’s friends with Bendy, and a new face from the studio I haven’t written into the au before! 

On with the fic!

--

Henry looked at the calendar as he stepped into the kitchen, yawning as he looked at it. He lifted the bottom page, changing the month from January to February. 

As he made his way to the coffee maker to get it started, his sleepy mind made him wonder what was happening this month. Hmm... Valentine’s Day was in fourteen days, but was there something before then?

There was stomping behind him and he turned, seeing Bendy come in, yawning loudly. Oh, isn’t the anniversary of the release of Bendy’s first distributed cartoon coming up? Henry nodded to himself, putting coffee grounds into the machine. Then he paused, eyes wide.

That’s right! Bendy’s anniversary was coming up! He looked over at the giant demon who pulled out the apple juice carton from the fridge to get a drink. Did Bendy even know that it was coming up? Technically it was his birthday, at least that’s what Henry use to joke around and say when the day would come up.

Bendy probably didn’t know, considering from what Henry’s seen, Joey probably did nothing to celebrate it. And it’s not like Bendy’s like his ‘rivals’, like Mickey Mouse and such, he doesn’t get a big celebration from people all over for his special day.

Well, Henry was gonna change that. Even if it wasn’t going to be anything huge, it would probably make the demonic toon very happy.

--

“Do you think we should invite people?” Linda asked as she folded towels, her husband changing the laundry for her. “I mean, he doesn’t know that many, but still.”

“It’s up to them if they want to come. It’s on the tenth, seems a little too soon for the Conner’s to come down, but Wally can probably come up.” Henry shrugged as he walked up to Linda. “Mary could probably spend some time playing with him while we get the party set up, so he’ll have fun with his little friend.”

“That sounds nice. Oh, what should we get him?”

Henry frowned as he thought. “Well... I’m not sure. Though I saw something the other day, you know the store with all the old stuff in it?” When Linda nodded, he continued. “Well, I saw something there that he might like. I’ll check out the store tomorrow, hopefully they’re still there. Hey, do you want to call the Conner’s to see if they can come? I’ll give Wally a call to see if he’ll visit.”

Linda smiled, giving a little nod. “Sure. I’ll need to make a run to the store soon, I’ve got a cake idea in mind for him. Might have to make two cakes, that’s a big mouth to feed. Literally.”

--

Bendy was curious as he watched his parental figures. They had been so secretive lately and he didn’t understand why. He made a small whine as he looked at the back door, sitting in the snow with Mary as she tried to work on the head of the snowman they were building.

“Do you wanna go inside?” The little girl asked, looking up at her friend. Bendy shrugged, but he kept looking at the door.

She wanted to say something so badly, Linda had told her yesterday to keep Bendy distracted for a while today so they could get the party set up and for the guests to arrive! But Bendy seemed to have figured out that something was going on.

Mary decided to distract him by hitting him with a snowball. Well, this kept Bendy occupied for a few minutes or so as he chased her about the yard, trying to drop loose snow on her as she laughed and threw snowballs at him.

The back door opened and Henry peeked out. “Bendy, it’s time to come in.”

The giant toon stopped, shaking the snow off of himself as he ran to the porch, missing the thumbs up that Mary gave Henry. The artist stepped aside, letting Bendy into the house, following him inside with the little girl.

Bendy looked around, making a curious sound. He could smell something delicious, like... chocolate and bacon. He also noted that he could hear whispering from the living room. He grinned in delight as several familiar faces came into view from the other room.

“Happy birthday, Bendy!” Three of the four people shouted, the other was more of a mumbled greeting.

The demon smiled until he realized that they said birthday. Birthday? He looked at Henry for answered. The man smiled, patting the demon’s arm. “Today’s the anniversary of when your very first distributed cartoon premiered. I’ve considered it your birthday for a long time now, and we felt like we should celebrate it with you.”

Bendy looked at Linday, Wally, Allison, Tom, Mary, and then Henry before his smile grew and he pulled the man into a tight hug. He grumbled what sounded like a thank you as he nuzzled Henry’s head. “Hahaha, you’re welcome, big guy. Now, let’s go to the living room, we’ve for your cake and presents there.”

“Yeah!” Wally grinned. “Come on, Bendy! I wanna get into those cakes we’ve got for ya!”

Stepping into the living room, Bendy found a small pile of presents by the couch, along with two cakes on the coffee table. On the wall above the couch was a banner that read ‘happy birthday’. Bendy sat himself on the ground, making a curious sound when he was handed something by Thomas. It was a paper crown, bright yellow in cover. He looked at the mechanic who grunted, moving to sit on the couch.

Bendy made a gurgling, laughing sound as he put it on his head, around one of his horns, as he looked at the cakes. One was simple, covered in chocolate frosting, the other was decorated though. It was clearly shaped like his cartoon form’s head, with the face, There was a candle in it that Allison lit. “Make a wish and blow out the candle, Bendy.” She smiled as she stood up straight.

Oh? What should he wish for? There were so many things he’d love to wish for, but... as corny as it sounds, he’s content with what he has now, with his life. Though he would like some bacon right now, he could smell it... He blew at the candle, blowing it out.

“Yay!” Mary happily clapped, looking up at her friend. “Now remember, you can’t tell anyone what ya wished for! It’s your secret!” She winked.

The demon nodded as he watched Linda cutting into the plain cake. “The one with the candle is for you, Bendy.” She said. “There’s a special surprise in it for you.”

Bendy tilted his head a bit as he picked carefully picked up the cake from the plate, biting into it. Bacon! It had a layer of crumbled bacon in the middle, this was amazing! He got his wish! He growled happily as he worked on eating the treat while Linda passed out cake slices to the others.

Once the cakes were eaten, and Bendy’s hands were cleaned up, it was time for presents. Allison and Tom had gotten Bendy some coloring and story books for some of his favorite cartoon characters, Mary had drawn him a cute drawing of Bendy. Wally had gotten Bendy some board games and a promise to take him to Coney Island when he can come to visit.

Linda had gotten him two sketch books and a notepad for drawing and writing. And Henry’s gift was the last one that Bendy opened. Carefully using his claws, Bendy tore the paper from around the small package before opening the box. He stared silently at the two items that looked up at him before he gently removed them.

One was an Alice Angel plush, the other a Boris the Wolf one. They were just like his Bendy one up on his bed, black and white, soft fabric, a little wore and faded with age... He gently squeezed the middles, hearing two squeaks.

“No way.” Wally spoke up as he looked at the toys.

“Henry, are those real? F-From the studio?” Allison asked as she looked at the animator.

“I saw these a while back,” Henry started, “at the antique store. They’re the real deal, Shawn’s work. They’re just like the Bendy plush toy he gave me when I still worked at the studio. I was shocked to find them, the guy I spoke to was surprised to find out that I created the characters, heh, gave me a good deal on them.”

Tom nodded. “Gotta use that advantage while ya still can. Not many people remember the show nowadays.”

“Yeah.” Henry looked at Bendy, who was still silently looking at the toys. “Bendy? You okay?”

Bendy lifted his head, his face was more damp than usual, oh, he was crying. Before Henry could say anything, he was swept up into another hug as Bendy nuzzled him, growling out his name as he tried to say thank you once more. 

“H-heh, you’re welcome, bud.” Henry patted the crying demon’s back before smiling, returning the hug. “Happy birthday, Bendy.”

#bendy and the ink machine #batim #batim bendy #beast bendy #henry stein #linda stein #henry x linda #wally franks #allison pendle #thomas connor #john's drabbles

[lifesjustdesserts]

The Story of Josephine Wingly.

It's been a while since I've really engaged with this community, hasn't it?

People barely know about me as it is... I might as well tell you all a bit about myself.

Where to start..?

Well, I'll start by where I was abandoned. It was around 1891.

My adoptive mother, Cynthia Wingly... had recently opened up her bakery on the third isle of Inkwell when she found me on her doorstep. Back then, it was called Cindy's Cakes and Bakes. According to her, I was probably almost one year old when she found me.

She was a middle-aged blackbird who always dressed in a very old-fashioned way, and I always called her "Gram" throughout my life.

Yeah, go ahead and laugh. She wasn't fond of the name, but eventually grew to it. Anyways, I don't remember my birth mother or father. Gram said that the night she found me, she noticed that someone was running away from the bakery.. and that I had a note pinned to my baby dress. It simply said my name: "Josephine", a date - December 19th - and a plea to take care of me in the stead of whoever left me there. She then decided to adopt me, raise me, and love me as her own daughter. Growing up wasn't easy for either of us. Gram was balancing her brand new business alongside raising me. I had the same kind of childhood as most of the kids in our neighborhood had growing up during that period... although Gram was still trying to learn more about me as much as I had to. No other children in the city were like me. As a toddler, when I played with the neighborhood girls, when they ran, I tried to run, but ended up falling flat on my face. Neither Gram nor I understood how I was supposed to walk or move around at first. I only had what seemed to be a screw acting as a bottom half for where legs should be. Gram wondered if I was a robot at first, or some magical automaton. But eventually I learned to maneuver around in my own way, by being able to physically use the drill-like and became accustomed to it. ~ As I grew up, I learned to bake by watching and helping Gram make different cakes and breads for customers. Gram couldn't afford to send me to school, so I was home-schooled. At times, it got boring sometimes being in the shop all day and barely going out to do anything because of the work and schoolwork I had to do. Everything changed the night that she took me to the newly-opened theater to see the premiere of a new opera. I was entranced by the theatrics, singing, stage effects ... that seemed to draw me in instantly. I told Gram that night that I wanted to be on stage, to be a famous performer that people'd love, and earnestly begged her to let me become one. She was reluctant at first, but on my 10th birthday, she surprised me with an acceptance letter for a local performing arts academy that was affiliated with the theater. I didn't know till later that she had saved up a lot to pay for the application. Nonetheless, it was the best birthday I've ever had. We learned different things at the academy; the history of dance, what we'd be performing... mostly things like that. It took me quite some time to learn it, and my teacher was especially strict... and couldn't understand "how a gal with a drill leg managed to drag herself into the dance studio" (her words). With my ... well, body shape... I couldn't do most of the leg-oriented ballet poses we had to learn, and most of the other girls made fun of me. Except for one.

Sally Stageplay.

Aside from my Gram, she was the only person that seemed to have any faith in me. She was a year younger than me, but she was my only friend during my time at the academy. She tried to help me get into the swing of things as best as she could to dance like the other girls... but I often messed up, and the girls usually made fun of me. One day, when we were taking a break outside, Sally and I were playing around on the monkey bars, and when I was swinging around, she and I both attempted to dismount. While Sally flew up and landed down face-first in the sand, I managed to somehow keep my balance when I was doing a handstand on the monkey bars.

It certainly got everyone's attention. Sally and I were both surprised, and I was staying upside down for a good minute before swung off the monkey bars and dismounted perfectly on point.

My teacher... and I myself... started realizing my talents, and I managed to get a handle on my dancing. Over the years, I'd be practicing my own form of dancing, and I eventually started getting singing lessons on the side for fun. In the meantime, Sally and I stayed the best of friends.

When I turned 18, Sally and I graduated from the academy (people were impressed that Sally graduated at a younger age than most girls). We were practically inseparable; we started off as background dancers, spent birthday parties together, nothing could split us apart. We were often 'rivals' (mostly for show by the director), since she and I would be cast back-and-forth with starring and supporting roles.

When I wasn't performing at the theater, I was helping Gram with the bakery. She supported me as best as she could, and I wanted to repay her... I even wanted to put some of the pay I started to receive into supporting the business, since it wasn't getting many customers (despite Gram's insistence otherwise). Some people eventually recognized me when I was working, and started flocking because of my rising fame.

~~~~

Ever since I was a child, I was told by Gram never to go into the cavern that laid beyond the "ghost tracks". She told me that "demons spawned from there, and to never follow anyone down there". At some point, we started getting drunkards stumbling into the shop that we realized that they might've come from whatever was in the cavern. My life was sublime, I felt like I was on top of the world.

That was... until he came onto the scene. He was so handsome back then. Word was going around that he was working with a new business nearby and was representing them in financing the theater. It was typical of the girls in the theater to gawk and stare at the handsome gentleman waltzing around the theater. I'm somewhat ashamed to say I was one of them. I found out later that his name was "Dicell". I noticed over time that he would start coming to my stage shows and performances. I met him after one of my larger revues, when he came by to my dressing room to compliment my performance himself, and he even gave me a beautiful bouquet of roses. Over the course of a few months, we started to get to know each other... in secret, of course. Both for professional reasons, and because Gram was highly suspicious of strangers.

However, I gathered up the courage to tell Gram about him, and asked if we could invite him for over for dinner. She trusted me, and agreed to have him over. He came back with me after a performance one night, was a complete gentleman towards me and Gram. Everything went well.

Or so I thought.

After he left, Gram told me that she didn't want me seeing that man anymore. When I asked why, shocked, she told me that there was something about him that set her off, and she was concerned for my safety. I was in my mid-30s at this point, and though I've always trusted her judgement, I thought it was insane at that time.

Things still seemed to be going smoothly in my life, but I couldn't say the same for Sally. Even though we were stayed friends, her life wasn't going very well. Despite being in a loving relationship with her future husband, she confided to me that the lack of work at the theater was taking a toll on her economically. She was already behind on rent and was worried that she and her future husband would be left on the streets. Even though I tried talking the director into using her more and paying her more, he simply shrugged it off and didn't seemed bothered by it.

For a week, I couldn't find Dicell in the audience nor saw him after my shows. I did notice that he was chatting with Sally more often. I didn't think anything of it... until I noticed one day that they both came out from the cavern, with Sally seeming very happy and excited over something.

After Sally left, I confronted Dicell and asked about what was going on with them, and he said with a straight face that nothing was going on. ~~~ I haven't been the same after... after I was essentially given the boot. After nearly 17 years. It was as if overnight that Sally Stageplay started getting more billings for performances at the theater. I was obviously happy for her... but then my workload and pay started decreasing. I was shy of 35 when the director essentially told me:

"Look, Jo... you've been doing a heckuva job getting money flowin' for this theater... but we've really need... well, younger blood to keep this place afloat. And to be frank... the reviews with you haven't been too friendly lately... I'm sorry, Jo, but we gotta let you go. No hard feelins'."

It was as if my entire world was crumbling in on me. Attempting to swallow my pride, I bid farewell to my friends, co-workers, everyone... and simply wished them all the best. They seemed sad to see me go.

But I couldn't find Sally anywhere. Or Dicell. Gram was sympathetic, despite me feeling as if all the work I've put into this wondrous life I've made for myself, and the sacrifices Gram made for me to get there had all gone to waste within an instant. After getting booted from the theater, I stayed full-time to help Gram with the bakery for the last 6 years of her life. We started seeing less and less customers. I stopped hearing from Dicell, so we lost touch. Gram's health started getting worse. She went through a near-fatal heart attack and was no longer able to operate the bakery, thus I inherited the shop and began doing all the physical labor while she handled finances. I never could figure out how Sally rose to fame that fast.

Until the day the Cup-brothers stopped by our bakery.

This was around the time that they were hunting the debtors of the Devil's Casino and reclaiming their soul contracts. They both came in, much to Gram's delight, for some reason. She asked them what they were up to, as I got to work on serving a cake I recently finished. Cuphead told us what had happened, how they got involved in the first place (the poor souls), and that they were going after the pirate Brineybeard down by the docks. Out of sheer curiosity, I asked who else was on their list.

Mugman yanked the list out of Cuphead's hands and handed it to show us as they scarfed down the cake I had served them. It was a miracle how the scroll didn't tear in my hands.

                                      Sally Stageplay was on that list.

I was severely enraged. Everything that had happened to me, that meeting Sally had with Dicell, how we lost touch, how Sally suddenly became a hit sensation overnight... all the pieces fell into place.

I held in my rage until after the Cup boys left. When they bid farewell, I muttered under my breath: "Give Sal' a swift kick to the bloomers while you're at it."

Gram heard me, however, and criticized me for my language. I honestly didn't care anymore.

When the sun came down, I told Gram I had to go take care of something after closing up shop, and would come back as soon as I could. I ended up breaking my promise to Gram when I was told where Dicell - who now went by the name of "King Dice" - worked.

He had become the Devil's right-hand man. And I confronted him when I saw him standing guard at the doors of the Casino.

If I had a penny for every swear I threw into his face, I could easily flood the streets of Inkwell Isle III.

I told him I knew of Sally's deal with his 'boss'. I told him I realized the cause of the loss of my dream job. The last thing I asked him was: "...Why did you do this to me?"

He simply just smirked at me, and responded: "It's just business, sweetheart. Honestly, you should have expected this." I was confused.

He lifted my chin, and said: "Sally's been aiming for your spot for years, we're the ones she came to and we just gave what she deserved. Nothin' personal."

I angrily slapped his sleazy hand from my face. I could barely find the words to say anymore. Nothing that would change anything.

I had returned home in an angry, heartbroken huff. I noticed that the lights upstairs were still on, which was weird since typically Gram was always insistent on saving what resources we had left. I went upstairs to find her asleep in her rocking chair. I gently shook her shoulder to tell her I'm back home, and sorry for taking longer than planned.

She slumped to her side.

In a panic, I called an ambulance and she was instantly taken to the closest hospital.

Gram passed away in her sleep, at the age of 89 years. And I wasn't even around to say goodbye to her. ~~ A small handful of people came to her funeral, to my surprise, including Elder Kettle, the elderly caretaker of the Cup brothers. It turned out that he was a close friend of Gram's, and said he'd be happy to help me in any way I could. Things got calmer on the Inkwell Isles after the Cup boys defeated the Devil and freed all the debtors. I was considering confronting Sally about her deal with the Devil, but even stepping foot outside the theater brought back sour memories, and couldn't bring myself to face her.

My neighbors, bless their souls, helped to support me as best as they could. Over time, I renamed the shop to Swingin' Sweets, started focusing more on sweets and candies than cakes and bakery items, and hoped to make a fresh start.

*~*~* It's been nearly a year since Gram passed, and since I officially took over.

Business has been slow, but I'm still try to make the most of it. Just making it to the end of each day is a blessing in of itself.

*~*~*

I’m somewhat surprised at how this took to write, but I hope that somewhat gives you a better idea about who I am.

                                                 So... ask away.

(Special thanks to my awesome friend @lifeismarvelous for the drawing of teenage Jo and Sally Stageplay, go check out her stuff!)

All other art in this post was drawn by the ShadowMun, aka @ShadowGirl7, aka me.

#AskJo! #cuphead oc #cuphead fc #oc backstory #cuphead original character #cuphead fancharacter

[purplesurveys]

375

Choose any age you once were; answer the questions about you at THAT age. Age of choice: 17 (this was in 2015), as determined by Gab haha. The People I Knew Who was your crush (or significant other) back then? I was with Gab for the first half of the year, but I broke up with her too. Was anyone crushing on you? If so, who? I dunno, possibly. I was never entirely sure of Gab’s feelings in the first run of our relationship cos we rushed the whole thing really, so I don’t want to assume and say that she was attracted to me then. Who was your best friend at the time? Sofie, Angela, and Gab. Pretty much the same crew except I don’t talk to Sofie anymore. Any enemies/people you didn't like? Marielle, as always. Which family member were you closest to? I’ve never been close to my family, but if I had to name someone I guess it would be one of my older cousins, who I call Kuya since he feels just like an older brother to me.

Which family member were you the least close to? My mom. If you were in school, name a teacher you had: That was senior year, sooooo...Ms. Michelle. She was our class adviser but she also taught homeroom. What was your attitude toward people in general? I think I relied on other people a lot, because that was the year my grandfather died (first time I ever had to deal with death) and I got dumped and for the first time in several years, I suddenly cut Gabie out of my life. It took some adjusting that could’ve only been fixed by surrounding myself with others. It also helps that it was our last year in high school so it was a year when my classmates and I really bonded together. The Places I Went: Whose house were you at the most? I didn’t go to a lot of friends’ at the time but it was most probably either Athenna’s or Angela’s. Where was your favorite place to go to have fun? Chelsea’s house I think haha. My friend group weren’t mall people, we just hung out at the houses of those who’d be willing to accommodate us for the evening and for the most part, that was Chelsea’s place. Did you go on any vacations at that age? If so, where? Sagada/Baguio is the most significant one that comes to mind, but I’m sure we went someplace else but I’ve just forgotten. Where was your favorite place to shop? I didn’t shop much at the time. Favorite place to eat out at the time? I don’t think I had a favorite. I was stuck in school for 10 hours for 5 days straight for 14 years and we were far far away from the city, so going to the mall and trying out restaurants were very seldom. Did you go to any concerts? If so, who did you go to see? I did! I saw One Direction. Barely though, since our seats were far and it was held on mere concert grounds (not an arena which has multi-levels), meaning if you were far away then you had no chance of actually seeing the artist/s. We were far but still close enough that we could make them out, and that was good enough for me. Did you prefer being indoors or outdoors? I was definitely an indoors baby. I still am but I also like going outside now. What state/province did you live in at the time? I’ve been living in the same house. The Things I Did What did you and your friends usually do when you hung out? We were minors, so we’d usually get together for each other’s school events. Half of my friend group was from an all-girls school (AA), and the other half is from an all-boys school (Ateneo). If Ateneo had some sort of benefit concert or fair, we’d go there. If we had our own fair or concert or whatever, the boys would come over to hang with us. If it wasn’t a school thing then we’d normally hang out at someone’s place and order in food. It was a simpler time. What did you usually do in your free time? 2015 was a busy year and whatever free time I got, I used to take charge of the school yearbook or study for college entrance exams. Was there anything extra memorable you did at this age? Yes. I had my first kiss, first breakup, first experience with death, and I went to Sagada and was at peace with myself for the first time that year. I also passed the 3/3 universities I applied for. Oh and I was able to mend my relationship with Gabie and we ended up so much closer than I ever thought we would get. Pretty crazy year. Did you kiss anyone? If so, who? I did. Gab was my first kiss. I thought I was terrible but a few years later she showed a Tumblr post of hers writing about that kiss, and she seemed to think otherwise. Did you ever get in trouble for anything? Like what? I probably did, but I’ve most likely discarded it from my memories. What kind of music did you usually listen to? Up Dharma Down, BP Valenzuela, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith...I was into a lot of sad music because again, I went through a breakup and it had been a pretty shitty year. Oh and that was the year Adele’s Hello came out which was the icing to my shitty fucking cake. Did you buy anything that you still have to this day? What was it? I’m sure I do, but I don’t keep track of the years I buy my stuff. Did you ever get teased for anything? I don’t think so. What was something you got upset over, if any? I recapped all of them several questions ago, my friend. What was something you got really excited over, if any? Passing the UPCAT and getting Gabie back (as my best friend) were the pots of gold I needed (and got) by the end of 2015. There was no better way to cap off the year. The Things I Liked... & Didn't Like A band/singer you liked? I was on a One Direction high throughout 2015 since I saw them in concert. Hozier also blew up that year and I was alllll over his first album; Athenna introduced me to Banks and I stanned her album as well. A band/singer you didn't like? Meghan Trainor probs. A song you liked? Even If You Asked Me - BP Valenzuela. I continue to stan that song h a r d even four years later. A song you didn't like? Idk anything Meghan Trainor or Ellie Goulding put out. A subject in school you liked? English but only because it was incredibly easy and Hamlet was a breeze. I hated the teacher and I knew she hated me too though. A subject in school you didn't like? I couldn’t give a rat’s ass about calculus. A food you liked? Chocolate chip cookie cups with milk shots were the trend back then and I remember going crazy over them. I’d still have 10 of those today if there were some in front of me. A food you didn't like? Fruits. Something you liked to do? Hahahaha. I liked passing by Gabie’s classroom. She knew she made a mistake dumping me, and while it was really evil of me, I really enjoyed passing by everyday cos I just knew she’d watch me the whole time. I asked her about this when we got back together and my hunch was right. Something you just didn't like to do? Working on calculus worksheets, so I never did attend to those. Still ended up at the top university, so that’s a nice ‘fuck you.’ A TV show you liked? Breaking Bad. A TV show you didn't like? Not so sure. Whatever was hyped back then. Maybe How I Met? A person you liked (as a friend)? Angela. A person you didn't exactly like? Marielle. The Things I Owned Did you own any electronic devices? If so, what? Sure. I had an iPhone 5 then and my old HP laptop. What about toys? I was 17. Overall, what did you have in your room? I think I still had my wrestling posters up during that time, and I also had a letter art thingy on the wall with the quote, “There isn't a person on this planet that should let a past nightmare dictate or cloud their future dreams,” said by CM Punk. I had darker curtains at the time so it was so much easier to be in an ~emo mood while I listened to dark indie songs hahaha. Were any posters plastered on your wall? Of who/what? ^ Refer to previous question. Do you remember what kind of backpack you had for school, if any? Yes, it was a black Nike backpack with yellow accents. Did you own a diary/journal? If my survey blog counts, then yes.

Can you name one thing you got for your birthday at that age? Yanna got me my favorite brand of wafers. I’ll never forget that present, it was so sweet. Did you own a bike/car? Or anything for transportation besides walking? My dad got me a car by the end of the year but I didn’t learn how to use it until the next year. I went to and from school via school service, which is our version of a school bus. What kind of clothes did you usually wear? Meh, my style had still been pretty basic at the time so nothing special. When you go to a private all-girls Catholic school that requires you to wear a uniform for 10 months in any given year, you never really have the time to explore styles that exist beyond your plaid skirt and your white socks. The Things That Were IN What band/singer was very popular, if you can remember? The Weeknd, Drake, Rihanna, Adele, Ed Sheeran. One Direction was pretty big but only because Zayn left that year. What was one song that was played on the radio a lot? Hahaha I had to look this up since I’m terrible with hit songs and the years they came out. The song that screamed to me the most to mention it is Fetty Wap’s Trap Queen. Shit BLEW up in 2015. I’m listening to it rn just for old time’s sake and it still seriously bops. What was something most people your age owned (or HAD to have)? iPhone 5. At the time, it was the perfect phone in the perfect size. Now I can’t stand seeing one cos I had mine for so long, even while everyone overtook me with iPhone 6′s and 7′s lmao. Was Facebook popular yet? Oh yeah. Very much. What book series was the most popular? I’m not so sure about that. Murakami got really popular in my circle at the time, but I’m not sure if that applies everywhere else. What TV series was the most popular? Probably Game of Thrones. What movie did a ton of people go to see? I had to look this up, but apparently there was an Avengers movie out this year. What kind of clothes were most people wearing? Off-shoulders started to spread in 2015, if I remember correctly. Did you tend to like what was popular, or not really? I was sort of in the middle. I listened to One Direction and Rihanna, but I also liked nonconventional stuff like punk rock and wrestling. It’s the same today. What I Think Now Overall, what was it like to be this age? It was definitely one of the better years. 17 was a defining year, and I lost a lot and gained a lot and learned a lot. I’d have no problem rewinding 2015 if I absolutely had to, even if it meant going through the ugly shit again. Looking back, do you miss being this age? I do. I was happier. Do you prefer being the age you are now? To some extent, yes. I don’t really like dwelling in the past. But I do acknowledge that I was happier when I was 17. Now to make you feel old: What year was it when you were this age? 2015. Pretty recent, sis. Would you relive this age all over again? Already said that I would. I’d want to learn as much as I did that year, all over again.

#survey #surveys

[trueishcolours]

My siblings and I accidentally write a Ron/Victor Krum 4th year fix it fic in the group chat

Isabel: guyS

Rewatching goblet of fire

And I have to say

How amazing would it have if

It was a LOT less gendered

And also

If Ron and Krum had got together instead of Krum and Hermione

Thomas: Oh yeah there's so much Gender  

Isabel Ron already basically has a crush on Krum

Would have been great  

Thomas: idk, he's more jealous of him in my opinion  

Isabel: Nah

He has the action figure

He says he's an artist

It's definitely there

Thomas: Tru 

Clare: I mean on a superficial level I liked the Hermione/Krum part because it made me relate that a girl who is usually uninterested in 'feminine' things might still have some anxieties and take some interest now and again, and 'this super hot guy will like You, the Nerd' is standard wish fulfilment, but honestly I could take it or leave it. A grumpy feminist could equally well read it as 'EVEN smort girls like Hermione want to be feminine REALLY uwu'

And that would be a boring analysis but the whole feminine versus not argument is boring and not what we're here for

Anyway

The Krum drama kicks off the Romione subplot and honestly I hate Romione as a ship, to me it feels forced from beginning to end

But Ron/Krum would tie in really nicely to the whole character arc for Ron that JKR started in the first book and then forgot about where he evolves into an amazing intelligent badass without noticing it

Picture: He is dooting along, vaguely bummed because he's nothing special compared to his older bros, then in book four he realises wait he DOES stand out from others because he's gay/bi/whatever but he's not sure he WANTS that because standing out for being a minority is a fucking hassle but by the seventh book he is war hero, chess master and gay icon and vaguely confused about it

Hell, you could even have Hermione go to the ball with Krum, get her girly character development in and have Ron freak out and both of them /assume/ it's about her when it's not

It would just

Be better Thomas: Queer theory saves the day once again

Clare: :D  

Isabel: JUST BASICALLY RON, ALL THE TIME, WITH A BETTER CHARACTER ARC

Thomas: I love this  

Isabel: Honestly decades later I am still just so salty about Ron's lack of development, hell, anti development. I just want everything for him

Clare: Like, not to make it automatically angsty just because it's gay but Ron being Not Straight ties in so well with his typical theme of qualities that he think make him less than Textbook Perfect actually being his great strengths (I read a great analysis that Ron actually achieves all his brothers' goals without trying or noticing)

Ron just utterly stalls as a character in the books

And Harry is a shitty friend to him by the end

She kind of pulled it back with his deathly hallows arc but it was bungled and could have come across as just bashing him

Isabel: HE IS. Ron is so taken for granted.

Clare: God, Ron is SO much less of a dick if his yelling at Hermione in book four is coming out of Sudden Repressed Realisation, not just 'woman I like is doing something I don't like'

Isabel: I watched film 4 last night and just everyone??? Is so horrible to each other??? All the time??? I swear in the books it's so much better handled

Other reasons why bi/gay Ron headcanon is important: - most masculine of the trio/ has a million big brothers so dealing with toxic masculinity/ bucking queer stereotypes in there too - an extra 'fuck you' to the whole pure blood thing which I reckon is really homophobic as it means your bloodline won't get continued or some shit - Krum coaching Ron on Keeping in bad English. Tell me it's not cute. - Ron's a linguist (he learnt parselmouth on like 2 listens)!! Tell me he wouldn't learn Bulgarian?! - just, chaotic bilingual Quidditch talk, all the time, forever?!

Clare: UM your pidgin Quiddich is now my new fave headcanon forever????? You're SO RIGHT Ron is smart, he's just not academic. He would DEFINITELY pick up a language fast if he was using it to talk to his boyfriend/about quiddich

Isabel: EXACTLY

Clare: Plus all the stuff you said about toxic masculinity and purebloodism.

MAKE THE SUBTEXT TEXTUAL, YOU COWARDS

Isabel: #giveRonaBoyfriend2k18

Also not around for the lowkey weirdness of Ron and Harry dating CANONICALLY IDENTICAL AND BORING non white girls to the Yule Ball

I know that you can overdo all this stuff but seriously the fuck

Clare: It is a bit odd and icky   

Isabel: Ok so this is what happens

Krum asks Hermione to the Yule Ball and it's like she gets her cute moment with him

But then instead of spending the whole evening being a whiny bish Ron shows un-JKR-characterisation-characteristic maturity and puts a brave face on it and talks to them both

He's upset but doesn't full on ruin their evenings

And then Hermione after the ball, (gradually realising with slight horror that she and Krum actually have literally nothing in common) kind of keeps... asking... Ron to hang out with them

And at first Ron's like lol no way am I third wheeling

But then the temptation to hang out with his literal idol becomes too strong

And he and Krum start hanging out independently of Hermione

(who's probably in the lib helping Harry study for the second task at this point anyway)

The weather is still too cold for Quidditch

Ron thinks

But somehow Ron ends up playing anyway

IN THE SNOW

WITH VICTOR

HE'S GETTING COACHED BY AN ACTUAL WORLD CUP FINAL SNITCH CATCHING PLAYER AND HE IS NOT CHILL

Clare: Hoooooly fuck this is perfect

(except he actually is because it's like -10 and snowing what the fuck Krum) Ron putting his big boy panties on and dealing during the ball, leading to him actually having an in with Krum via Hermione

I love the dynamic of Hermione just...awkwardly asking her friends to hang with them...just to break the silence...

Isabel: YEAH EXACTLY

And then them all actually having a nice evening

Clare: I mean the point of Krum with her was to get that 'YASSSS I'm dating a hot guy!' moment WHILE ALSO showing how easily it fizzles, so nothing needs to change there

Hermione could even do her 'ugh, quiddich and BOYS' routine

Isabel: Awkward because of course it is awkward what is a teenage party without angst but also, fun

yeah exactly! the slow dawning that fuuuuck, I've just brought another stupid quidditch boi into my life oh god why

Clare: Ron still knows more about the history of the game and all the technical terms than Harry so has more to talk to Krum about

Isabel: And then you know Ron and Krum stumble back into the castle with Ron wearing Krum's hat à la Chad and Ryan, and Skeeter doesn't bat an eyelid because it doesn't fit her trashy narrative

Clare: RIGHT I've got to sleep I'm getting a cold but I love this

Isabel: ok go sleep

OK ONE MORE POINT

we almost certainly get the insanely awkward 'think you're in luurve Ron' or 'lol if you love Krum so much you should date him not Hermione'! moment from either Fred or George or maybe Ginny

And there's just a kind of... missing step moment

Clare: I think all of them would do that

I mean they're pretty mean to Ron anyway, especially about love

Isabel: Exactly they're all horrible but MAYBE this would teach them!!

Clare: Exactly! It would rip the rug out from under them and they'd be like wait shit

Isabel: We are actually mean to Ron... a lot

Clare: Especially because in this timeline Ron still gets the hassle from his sibs but unlike in the main timeline where he is just butt monkey forever he has the trump card that he's got a boyfriend who's a world famous quiddich player

Like, if you're Fred, George, Ginny or even Molly you can't really come back from that reveal. Ron wins.

Isabel: Krum actually being a laser focussed guy who gives people he cares about 300% of his attention

And middle child syndrome attention starved Ron just soaks it up like a blooming Icelandic kid under a sunlamp

Ron win evertiem

Clare: Yeahhhhhh. Being a prodigy who's trained from such a young age he's got to nail that work life balance and it's like 90% work 10% life but that life is INTENSE, he's seen too many people lose their relationships because they won't switch off their metaphorical phones during dates, he gets one (1) month a year and about three (3) important people and when it is Person Time it is PERSON TIME

Right bed for eal I'm dying

Isabel: BED FOR EEL

UGH ALL I WANT IN MY LIFE IS THE 50K+ SLOW BURN QUEER 4TH YEAR REWRITE

BUT I LEGIT DON'T HAVE TIME TO WRITE IT AND I DON'T TRUST MYSELF TO GET RON POV RIGHT ANYWAY

Clare: Bebs I wish you could write it

The raw chemistry my goodness

I ship it now

Is there going to be 'you are treating me like an idol not a real person please stop' angst at any point?

Isabel: OF COURSE THERE IS

Clare: Also Krum is like 'I knew I could trust you because you are bffs with Harry Potter and you treat him like he's totally normal you must be so mature and cool he is so so lucky to have a friend like you

Or well, Krum insecurity that people only like him because of his celeb status anyway

Which is probably why he went for Hermione in the first place because she didn't give a shit

'WOULD WE EVEN BE TOGETHER IN THE FIRST PLACE IF IT WASN'T FOR QUODDICH?'

'... I love you.'

'Bro I wouldn't care if you were the worst player in the world as long as we both are fans of the sport together.'

'Bro.'

Isabel: BRUH

Also can I just ask...?

What happens in the second task??!!?

It's already messed up enough under that lake, love triangles all over the place

This would just be the final straw that resulted in everyone just shrugging and teaming up

Clare: Holy shit

Krum just doots along, takes Ron and goes

Harry's like...wait what...OK...um I guess Hermione and Ron are equally important to me so I'll just take her kk

Isabel: Krum and Ron appearing on the surface of the lake like 'fuck'

The most dramatic declaration of intent ever

Turning yourself into a shark and rescuing them from the bottom of a lake

Clare: Everybody in the stands is SHOOK

Dumbledore like dang I did not predict this

With their hair soaking wet they are both at maximum hot

Isabel: Rita Skeeter's quill combusts

Clare: Krum doesn't point her out as a beetle in Hermione’s hair he's too busy with Ron

Isabel: Yeah she's like where is my gossip at??? Nothing is happening over in Hermione's hair

But yeah I feel like Dumbledore would be like, oh darn, looks like I'm gonna have to show queer solidarity with Ronald Weasely or something

KRUM AT THE BURROW VERY SERIOUSLY COMPLIMENTING MOLLY ON HER FOOD AND ASKING FOR BRITISH RECIPES AND WINNING HER OVER IN A TRICE

Clare: Would Krum charm Molly straight away though? He's very surly and shy and, in the books, not very handsome. Wouldn't Molly start out yikes who is this quiddich yob my son has taken up with?

Ginny on the other hand. Comes out as bi a couple of years later, tells Ron she only started to realise thanks to his example, apologises for being a dick about his love life

Isabel: Yeah I guess actually

I think Molly can get fierce

Clare: She's probably got a bit of pure blood/homophobic anxiety that she cloaks as objections about THIS PARTICULAR boy

Isabel: Either she loves you and adopts you right away or she is like /pulling shotgun down from the shelf/

EXACTLY

She's like

Blaming herself, oh I should have paid more attention and NOW look what's happened

Poor Ronald, always neglected

And Ron's like... mum... this is great

I am happy

Is not problem

Clare: Ron is like I AM NOT DOING THIS FOR ATTENTION JESUS CHRIST

I mean he's probably enjoying having the attention of a quiddich super star and I bet he'd even enjoy the celebrity status of The Boyfriend a bit (best friends get sidelined but romantic partners are news) but he's not doing it FOR attention

Isabel: Yeah, and I think the suggestion that he is would just make him so mad

First confused and then mad

Oh the ANGST

Clare: Especially since that's Krums biggest anxiety

Isabel: Mr Weasely would be chill. I feel like in this whole equation he is the chillest

Clare: What would Percy say? Would social climbing or doing the done thing win out?

Also the attention thing is a way for parents to make their child's relationship all about them. Oh you want me to LOVE you more! No mum I'm growing away from you this is normal

I think Ron would get jealous around Bill and Charlie because they'd swing in all oh our brother is rebellious and has a cool boyfriend? Well we are cool rebels also welcome to the family Victor

Isabel: Yeah... I think Percy is probably pretending to be chill with it and being a bit smarmy to Krum then says something awkward and homophobic and it's worse than if he'd just said it straight up

Clare: I think a lot of Liberal but still pure blood families would take the line of, 'it's fine that you're gay...because you're the sixth son so your blood line isn't in danger and making a socially advantageous match is probably more important for you anyway! And Ron is like Y I K E S

Isabel: Yeah exactly, well I suppose you have enough sons Molly amirite

What do we think about the Krum family?

Are they just happy that their son is forming human relationships

Clare: Hmm. How do they feel about celebrity? Do they think Ron is Not Good Enough or are they actually quite a normal family and are glad Krum has an ordinary guy to keep him grounded?

Isabel: I kind of don't want Ron to have to deal with random Bulgarian disapproval

I think maybe a quite normal family who had a kid who was a genius and has been at boarding school/ travelling for years and years

Maybe Krum already came out to them so that drama is in the past

Clare: Yeah and when he brings Ron home for dinner they're just delighted that Krum is home at all and that he's happy

Yeah maybe he did

He's probably had a lot of time to introspect because of his image and maybe he's an only child?

Isabel: And Ron speaks accented but ok Bulgarian by this point and they're like !!!

Clare: I think one aspect of the large family thing that WOULD affect Ron is its just that much harder to have a private word with your parents so confiding about yourself, especially when you're not 100% sure, just isn't part of the family culture

And there's no time for introspection when you're jockeying for position with six siblings

So Krum is out to his parents while Ron isn't even out to himself

Plus Krums just that bit older

Isabel: No, when you ask for a word it's all 'yes Ron' a bit exasperated

Clare: Krum’s family are just delighted that Ron speaks Bulgarian and is a normal guy who likes their son for himself

Isabel: Maybe they have some kind of cool engineery job and Ron goes out the back and is like well my dad likes cars I will try and help

Uses his mathsy chessy knowledge

Clare: Re. Homophobia I think it is important that it's not all YOU'RE GOING TO HELL like the Muggle brand but instead is very focused on producing pure blood children. Also with the smallness of the pure blood community I bet there's a lot of, not official arranged marriage, but kind of assumed marriage, like in Pride and Prejudice or what may have happened with Prince William and Kate, like, there's three girls your age who your family's on speaking terms with who aren't your first cousins and it'll massively throw off everybody's plans if you don't marry one of them

Yes Ron helping with engineering

Isabel: Headcanon of the Krums as magical engineers with a side passion for quidditch

Clare: I bet he picks up arithmancy that way. Can't learn it in the classroom, can learn it in the garage. And he comes home from the holiday able to actually help his dad with the car and thenceforth Mr Weasley is on board

Isabel: Yeah exactly... they're a bit 'sigh ok this means you're not gonna marry bertha from the bakery but hell at least it's not a veela'

Clare: Also wizarding society is inherently conservative, they haven't even updated their writing system, so anybody doing anything different is looked askance at unless they can play themselves as a genius eccentric like Dumbledore

Isabel: So yeah then Ron turns out to be WHOLESOME af and Krum’s family are like... ok fine. this is fine. In fact yay!

Ok I have to go do some work but this has been almost as good as having the fic itself

Clare: Maybe I'll put a summary on my tumblr and see if anybody wants to adopt it

#harry potter #ron weasley #victor krum #hermione granger #fanfiction #monstrous conversations

[aroworlds]

Aro-Spec Artist Profile: Nate

Our next aro-spec creator is Nate, better known on Tumblr as @astriiformes!

Nate is an asexual, aromantic, neurodivergent and mentally ill trans guy/person continuing the tradition of aro-spec creators demonstrating an impressive diversity of talent. He writes, cosplays, creates filk music and produces visual art--and that’s when he’s not playing D&D and attending conventions!

You can find him on Twitter as planar_ranger and on 8tracks as azhdarchidaen. He’s also found on AO3 as azhdarchidaen, with a prolific selection of works for the Gravity Falls, Doctor Who, Critical Role and Pacific Rim fandoms! If you have a dollar or two you’re wanting to invest in worthy aro-spec talent, please take a look at Nate’s Ko-Fi!

With us Nate talks about expressing emotions through creativity, the intersection of aromanticism and perfectionism, the importance of storytelling as self-expression and his passion for D&D as a way of giving voice to his aromantic experience. His love for fandom, creativity and storytelling shines through every word, so please let’s give him all our love, encouragement, gratitude, kudos and follows for taking the time to explore what it is to be aromantic and creative.

Can you share with us your story in being aro-spec?

While I didn’t know the word “aromantic” until I was 15 or 16, and took a while to embrace it even then, when I look back on my childhood I can definitely see some of the earliest signs. Perhaps the most prominent was my mild disappointment at age 12 or 13 in discovering the Star Wars EU novels only to learn that Luke Skywalker, one of my most pervasively favorite characters since I first watched the movies and likely my earliest aro headcanon, ended up getting married! I ended up writing what was technically my first fanfiction after that discovery, an alternate take on the post-Return of the Jedi universe in which he didn’t.

But I didn’t really start to realize I was aro, or even know it was an identity at all, until two things happened. First, I joined an LGBTQA+ group on a writer’s forum I used to frequent and started to not only learn the vocabulary but also that identifying as something other than straight or cis was even allowed. Second, I entered what was essentially the closest thing to a romantic relationship I’ve ever experienced. By some measures it probably was one, but there really wasn’t much romance involved – because I wasn’t pushing it (for reasons that are now obvious to me), and the guy I was sort-of-dating was pretty respectful of my boundaries and was probably waiting for me to make some of those moves before trying himself. The relationship eventually broke off several months after he moved to Europe. He messaged me to say he felt bad about the fact that our long-distance “relationship” was probably holding me back from finding someone I could be happier with, and he would be more comfortable breaking it off. The fact that I felt no real sadness over that was a fairly big bit of evidence for my aromanticism, second only to the fact that I had actually become more comfortable with our situation when he moved across the Atlantic Ocean.

Clues like those eventually lead me to adopt the label and really begin to understand myself, I think around age 16 or 17. I went through a slow process of accepting all my queer identities one-by-one and kind of see them all as pretty interconnected. The aro one was in the middle.

Can you share with us the story behind your creativity?

I really like making things. For all the frustration I experience trying to write something I’m happy with, or panicked near all-nighters trying to finish props before a convention, I really am at my happiest when I have projects to engage in. I take a lot of pride in my identity as a content creator as a result, though it also means I can set discouragingly high standards for myself. That being said, there’s nothing that makes me happier that someone enjoying something I put time and effort into and being able to go “I made this.”

Writing was definitely my earliest outlet (I did draw things when I was younger, but I didn’t show my art to anyone until this time last year). I was posting fics (under a different username, fortunately; I don’t want my early teenage writing unearthed ten years later) on ff.net by early high school, a narrative I’m sure I share with plenty of other creators. I’ve done more interesting things with my writing since migrating over to AO3 though, and I continue to feel like my writing is growing (even if, sometimes, I worry it’s going too slowly).

Getting into cosplay was something I picked up only a year or so later, though again, comparing my current work to those first few attempts feels almost silly. My first cosplay was a patched-together Eighth Doctor mostly made out of thrift store finds that looked only debatably like the real deal. Since then, I’ve gotten better at sewing my own things and have realized one of my true strengths lies in elaborate props. My two most recent cosplays were Stanford Pines from Gravity Falls, with a fully-illustrated and screen-accurate copy of the third journal, complete with blacklight effects, and Taako, from The Adventure Zone, with an Umbra Staff that I had re-covered in fabric and had fully-functional LED “stars” built into it, stars I could make twinkle via a secret remote. I’m attempting two characters that are even more ambitious for conventions this year, but we’ll have to see how that actually goes…

My filk contributions aren’t massive, but the community aspect (and that it connected me to someone who is now one of my closest friends, who made me go from enjoying the genre to contributing to it) and some of the things I’ve done as a result of it make me feel it has a place as part of my creative identity. You haven’t lived until you’ve performed decades-old songs about space travel with your friends, in cosplay, in a crowded convention center! (Okay, a debatable statement. But a truly wild experience.) It’s also been a good outlet for me in some ways, because music is a powerful way to get across emotions. I play viola and piano, and have for years, so I knew that to some degree before I started writing my own lyrics to things. But personalizing songs by making them be about things you have really strong feelings for is another level entirely.

And then, art. Like I said, I never really shared it with anyone (or drew much at all) until about a year ago. Part of that was due to wanting to try my hand at digital art but not really having an understanding of what programs to use or how to get started with it, and part of it was the inertia of feeling like “if I’m not good at something immediately, I shouldn’t try at all!” The thing that really got the ball rolling for me is the long D&D campaign I’m currently in. When I was excited about other stories, chances were someone else had drawn art of it that I could enjoy and reblog. That’s not really the case with one you’re telling with only 5-6 other people. I had a sort of epiphany moment a couple months into the campaign, as the story really started picking up, that if I wanted to see the kind of art I appreciate for this new story I was falling in love with, I would probably have to do it myself. I’m still not incredibly happy with my work, since I’m surrounded by friends who are incredible artists and my style is fairly simplistic and oddly stylized, but I have gotten to a point where I draw fairly regularly, and generally put up what I create on our shared campaign blog. The same D&D game has wrenched over 15k words of original writing from me, which is pretty astonishing. Most of that isn’t anywhere to be found on Tumblr just yet, though – it’s largely still-top secret character backstory.

Are there any particular ways your aro-spec experience is expressed in your art?

The most obvious way is that I write fics about characters being aromantic and dealing with their aromanticism. All headcanons, unfortunately (I’m yet to find a canon aro in anything I love that I didn’t help create myself), but there are several stories on my AO3 about characters from Pacific Rim, Star Wars or Gravity Falls realizing they’re aromantic. And the fics that don’t deal with that are still all gen – I’m too romance-repulsed to write anything else, and I feel the world needs a lot more genfic anyways.

One other way, though I feel a bit silly calling it “art”, is that I am intentionally playing an aromantic character of my own creation in my current D&D campaign. I’ve been playing for several years now, and did have another character back in high school who I also imagined as aromantic. (Partially because of an awkward flirting mishap – an enemy tried to get my character off her guard with romance and it all backfired because she didn’t know how to respond. All my own fault – I don’t even know how to roleplay that!) But none of the campaigns I’ve played in until this one were particularly intent on exploring characters and their feelings all that deeply, or really making them a part of the story.

With my current character, it’s become incredibly validating to view him as aromantic and asexual, like myself. It’s that same impulse that got me started doing more art – if the fiction I like isn’t going to provide me with aromantic characters, I’ll have to make one myself! And it’s slowly leading to some very interesting explorations of aro identity and the normalising of it in our world. We’ve established that identifying that way isn’t particularly unusual for elves and talked about what that means for worldbuilding. Do they hold platonic relationships in the same regard as romantic ones? Is there a special kind of relationship that signifies that? What if we put friendship under the banner of the goddess of romantic love too? Though at the same time, I’m exploring some of the same feelings I experience with him – he’s a particularly lonely person, who worries about people actually wanting to stay with him, both of which are prominent features of my own aromantic experience.

What challenges do you face as an aro-spec artist?

Like many of us, I do worry that my genfics will be less enjoyed or circulated as a result of choosing not to include ships. And whenever I post a fic about a character actually being aro, I definitely get that little stab of “Someone is going to have a problem with this” fear.

I also feel that my experience with aromanticism has shaped a lot of my perfectionistic tendencies. Because I worry so much about trying to remain important in my allo friends’ lives, and because I think of so much of my identity as associated with creativity, I tend to get really wrapped up in my work needing to seem amazing somehow, to make people think I’m worth their time. It’s a silly thing to get preoccupied over, but it has had an impact on me. In some ways wanting my work to be really good is not a bad thing – it encourages me to do my very best whenever I can – but the motivation is really all wrong.

How do you connect to the aro-spec and a-spec communities as an aro-spec person?

I’m honestly pretty disconnected from them. I might be less-inclined to be if this website wasn’t suddenly experiencing such backlash against a-spec identities, but as is I’m almost afraid to engage with anything that might make me a target. Which is really unfortunate. That being said, whenever I do make any aro content and I see it circulated to other aromantic people, I get a lot of joy from it. The comments on my multiple aromantic-focused fics are some of my favorite ones I’ve ever received. If I can channel my experiences into something that elicits that kind of a reaction from our community, I consider my work well done.

How do you connect to your creative community as an aro-spec person?

When I’m able to talk to other aromantic people about headcanons (or even some of my very understanding allo friends who absorb them from me, too), pretty well! Unfortunately, that’s a pretty tiny fraction of my fandom experience. Even some of my interests where you’d think I wouldn’t run into problems have been difficult at times. I once had someone dressed as a character often (non-canonically) shipped with the one I was cosplaying, and they assumed that I would be interested in hearing that they shipped our character. Instead, they just made me very uncomfortable, particularly with the way they chose to do so.

In general, the expectation that as a member of fandom, producing fandom works, I will be interested in creating and consuming romantic content is hard to deal with. I’ve had people ask me to put ships in my fics, the aforementioned convention incident, and been heckled over having aromantic headcanons at all. That being said, aromantic headcanons were how I met at least a few of my good friends. Finding each other may be hard, but since we all feel so isolated I think that finding other aro creators inhabiting the same or similar spaces can lead to pretty quick bonding, or at least an appreciation of each others’ works. I do like that.

I’ve also, as I have mentioned a couple times now, realized the worth of telling my own stories, particularly if I have other people to share them with who will respond positively. Right now, most of my D&D group is not aro, but they are a group that respects my and my character’s identities, and being able to tell an aro narrative that means a lot to me and get a positive response is a breath of fresh air. I count them as fellow content creators and they’ve really encouraged the story I want to tell. I hope that someday the inspiration I’ve gained from that will lead me to publishing my own original fiction (with aro characters, of course), but it’s been due to this small start that I’ve decided that’s something I could realistically pursue.

How can the aro-spec community best help you as a creative?

Comments on my fics are one of the biggest things that keep me writing, so they’ll always be a boon to me. Even old ones. It makes me happy to see people still reading and enjoying them. Same goes for reblogs of any of my stuff – art, writing, filk, cosplay photos, anything else I might post. The biggest thing that keeps me wanting to create and share more creative works is knowing that other people are enjoying them, so if you do enjoy them, any way you can let me know that is wonderful.

I do hope that in some point in the future I’ll have original fiction available and a science writing blog (I consider non-fiction to be creative expression, as long as you’re putting your spark into it!), but neither exists quite yet. If you follow me on either of my main platforms though, those might pop up someday. Seeing either be circulated when the time comes would be massive. I also intend to, perhaps in the much nearer future, start publishing D&D content (likely homebrew 5e subclasses, but who knows) on the DMsGuild, starting with a pay-what-you-want model for downloading my content. If that goes up and I make something you’re interested in, and you want to pay something for it at all, I would be massively grateful.

Can you share with us something about your current project?

I’ve been working on a Critical Role Modern AU story since January or so that places heavy emphasis on the platonic relationships in the show (Percy and Keyleth’s is particularly dear to me, so they’re likely to get a fair bit of the spotlight) that’s my most current fandom fic.

I’m also tackling two ambitious cosplays at the moment, though the timeframe is making me wonder if I’ll actually pull either off. Especially given what I need to get done. One involves sewing pseudo-historical menswear, and I’m going to have to learn how to make armor for the other one. If I can figure it all out though, I’m really excited about them both!

Have you any forthcoming works we should look forward to?

Hopefully the next chapter of the CR fic, if I get hit with the inspiration (and motivation) to work on it soon. I also have another aromantic Luke Skywalker fic I really want to get down on paper at some point, though thus far it’s proven a little elusive.

My two big cosplay projects are Percy de Rolo (from Critical Role), which I intend to take to a local convention, and Erwyn, my own D&D character. I hope to do a photoshoot with the rest of the players as their own characters sometime late this summer.

As for art, I fully intend to keep drawing major or touching moments from my ongoing campaign, likely with much more frequency than any of the things above. It may not be as engaging for people to interact with as my fandom-focused projects are, but I still really do love sharing it.

#aro spec artist profiles #nate #astriiformes #azhdarchidaen #text #undescribed #artwork and visual #plush and fabric art #fanfiction #fanwork #fanart #cosplay #long post #very long post #aroace #link #ao3 #twitter #8tracks #arospec community #amatonormativity #amatonormativity in creativity #support our aro spec creatives if you can #genfic #aromantic #extremely long post #fandom #the arospec writers discussing their creativity tag #creativity discussion posts

[surveysonfleek]

1003.

Have you ever talked to someone online, but when you saw each other in person, it was just super awkward? Have you ever made a really good friend online? eh, not really. everyone i’ve ever ‘met’ online have been a mutual friend so usually that friend just introduces us in person. there’s been awkward moments but nothing terrible.

Do you enter sweepstakes or scratch lottery tickets or anything like that? What’s the best thing you’ve ever won? i once won a meat tray during this raffle at a local bar hahaha. played the lotto once, didn’t win.

Right now, would you be upset if you got pregnant, or would you not mind? Have you ever had a pregnancy scare? i’d be incredibly scared and confused because i’m in no way shape or form ready to be a mother but i’d definitely keep it. yes, i’ve had scares before, mostly from paranoia.

Have you ever let someone be your everything? i sure have.

Do you have any weird inside jokes? i have many with my boyfriend and friends.

Could you go the rest of your life without a cigarette? i’d have to prepare for it, but probably. that’s what i’m aiming for.

Is there anybody you’re really disappointed in right now? me.

Do you have alcohol in your house? yes.

Have you ever wanted something you couldn’t have? of course. hasn’t everyone?

Are you a morning or night person? night.

What is your favorite color? turquoise.

It’s 4 in the morning, your phone rings, who is it? no idea. my boyfriend most likely.

Have you ever had a really big fight with a best friend? yes.

Has someone ever called you at midnight on your birthday? yes.

Are any of your friends virgins? not that i know of tbh.

Do you prefer relationships or friends with benefits? relationships.

Has anyone got on your nerves today? no.

Has anyone told you they would never leave, and left? no.

Do you have a member of the opposite sex you can tell everything to? yes.

Did you kiss or hug anyone in the last 48 hours? yes.

Are you usually early or late? early or on time.

What’s annoying you? just life right now.

How is your boyfriend/girlfriend doing and where are they now? he’s good. he just went to sleep in his home.

Do you have anything to pay off? yes.

What are you wearing right now? pyjamas.

Do you know anyone that wants you dead? no.

Do you believe that regrets are lessons learned? yeah i guess.

Last person you talked to, and through what you talked to them? my boyfriend through imessage.

First color name you can think of that isn’t in the rainbow. purple.

What timekeeping devices are in the room you are currently in? phone, laptop, lamp.

What gaming consoles do you or your family own? xbox one.

What’s the best job you’ve ever had? probably the one i have now financially even though i hate it.

What’s the worst job you’ve ever had? ally for sure. so boring.

What email service do you use? gmail and hotmail.

Is there anything hanging on the walls of the room you are currently in? just a corkboard with different things i’ve collected over the years.

Earliest moment in your life you can remember? being at a zoo.

What did you have for dinner yesterday? vietnamese food.

How often do you brush your teeth? at least once a day.

What’s your favorite candy/chocolate? kit kat i think. or crispy m&ms.

Have you had other blogs on Tumblr? Do you have any other blogs currently? yeah i have a ‘main’ tumblr which i don’t use ever.

If you were suddenly really hungry, what would you choose to eat? if anything was accessible, probably sushi.

What fandoms would you consider yourself a part of? lol none.

What kind of position are you in at the moment? lying on my back in bed.

Do you wear much jewelry? a few bits and pieces.

Furthest away from home you have ever been? barcelona.

How many times have you moved houses? i’ve lived in three different homes. this one now since 1999.

Who was the last person you had a conversation with on the phone? work.

Have you ever had a best friend who was of the opposite sex? yes.

Has anyone said they love you in the last week? yes.

Who was the last person to comfort you as you cried? i forgot. probably myself.

Do your computer speakers work? yes.

Which friend are you most similar to? irene maybe. but kinda not.

Your ex calls wanting to hang out. What do you say? no.

Would you get back with your last ex if they asked you? no.

Have you kissed anyone whose name starts with a M? no.

Would you kiss the last person who texted you, on the lips? yes.

Camping with a ton of friends or hotel with a few friends? hotel for sure lol.

Have you ever kissed anyone who’s name starts with P, J, R, M, C, or D? yes.

Is there someone you wouldn’t mind kissing right now? i wouldn’t mind but he’s at home.

Do you think your ex will ever want to be with you again? no.

Where would you rather live: England or Australia? i already live in australia. i don’t think i’d live in england tbh.

What’s your relationship with the last person you texted? boyfriend.

When you looked at yourself in the mirror today, what was the first thing you thought? why do i have a pimple?

Do you fall for people easily? no.

Do you ever wonder what your ex is up to? no.

Have you ever kissed someone who was drunk? yes.

The nearest window to you now - what color curtains are on them? grey.

The shade of the color of your eyes can be described as: dark brown.

When was the last time you drank alcohol? over a week ago.

At what age did you stop believing in Santa? maybe 5.

Do you own a wok? yes.

Is there a particular type of music you really don’t like? yeah, not a fan of country.

Do you like going to weddings? yes!

What do you have on your toast? nutella.

Who was the last person you know who became pregnant? marie.

Beach, city, or mountains? i’d like to try have a getaway near mountains.

Do you have a stapler at your house? yes.

Would you rather read a book or listen to an audiobook? read.

Which is larger - your book or dvd collection? book.

What is the last spontaneous thing you did? idk.

You get a call at 2:00 a.m. - your first thought is: who the fuck?

What is your middle name? rather not say.

What are you passionate about? traveling.

Do you have any fears? losing loved ones, cockroaches, driving to places i’m not familiar with.

Where are you from? sydney.

What’s your sign? sagittarius.

Future names of your children: not sure yet!

What are you listening to right now? nothing.

Do you believe in fate/destiny? kinda.

What are your career goals? not entirely sure. looking to change my entire field right now.

Something you are working on right now: looking for a new job.

Have you ever had a near-death experience? no.

Are you a procrastinator or do you get things done early? i’m in between. i’ll do half straight away and the other half last minute.

TV shows and anime you watch regularly. i don’t watch anime. as for shows i’ve been watching atlanta, westworld, handmaid’s tale, rpdr and masterchef.

Halloween costume idea for this year? no idea.

Your best friend’s name. irene.

Do you prefer liquid, mousse, or powder foundation? Why? liquid. it just looks more seamless.

How much does your mother know about your sex life (or lack thereof)? nothing.

Do you enjoy watching cooking shows? yes.

Do you worry about gaining weight? yes.

Have you ever used fake tan? only once. not nice.

Do you ever look at someone cute, and automatically make a move? no.

How many times have you been to Walmart in the past week? i haven’t.

Do you live in a house, apartment, or another type of arrangement? house.

Are you kind of a loner? Do you like being alone? i like being alone but i’m not always a loner.

Are any of your siblings married? What are their spouses’ names? no.

Does your father have any creepy or scary friends you don’t like? no.

What color are the walls in the room you’re in right now? turquoise and grey.

Do you watch any shows that you know your parents wouldn’t approve of? no.

Do you have any siblings who still believe in Santa, and are over age ten? no.

What color were the last pair of headphones/earphones you bought? white and it came with my phone.

Are you attracted to the last person that you fell in love with? yes.

What did you do yesterday? went out for mother’s day.

Something you really want right now? sleep.

If you could seek revenge on someone, would you? no.

How long have you liked the person you like? many many years.

Does any part of your body hurt right now? no.

Can you recall the last time you liked someone? yes.

Are you happy with the way things are going? no.

Would you ever get a tattoo? no.

Do you think you will be in a relationship 3 months from now? yes.

Who was the last person you talked to in person? my boyfriend.

What plans do you have for tomorrow? working.

Has a friendship ended recently that you wish had not? nope.

What happened at 9:00 a.m. today? nothing.

Where are your biological parents? sleeping.

Do you have any summer plans yet? no.

Do you tend to waste a lot of money? yes.

What did you last drink? water.

Do you have trust issues? no.

Do you think this year will be better than the last? eh, maybe. we’ll see at the end of the year.

What are you doing? this.

Are you a jealous person? no.

Do you think age matters in relationships? to an extent.

Who is the last person you rode in a car with? my boyfriend.

Did you sing at all today? nah.

Where will you be 2 hours from now? in bed.

Are there any stressful situations in your life? yes.

Are your lips chapped at the moment? they’re never chapped, i can’t stand the feeling of dry lips so i take chapstick everywhere with me.

#survey #surveys #quiz #bored #questions

[goldn-curls]

my last night in Inverness - pt 1

I'm at Johny Foxes, alone. Ordered a pint of lager a few minutes ago, ‘cause “ale is piss water”. “I’m from Belgium, I like our kind of beer better.” is what I keep explaining to these Scottish men when they look absolutely flabbergasted when I share. Can you believe they don’t like foam on their beer? I mean, it’s how it’s supposed to be served but okay. Upon walking in, I spotted a table that was close enough to the bar and tucked away in a back corner enough for me to dissapear. Perfect, I won’t have to go far to order another. And with a decent view of the dance floor — I like observing people. Johny Foxes is a pretty big establishment, at least to my standards. There’s this big U-shaped bar in the middle of the room. Seats on all sides. Wood covers everything. From the floor up to the ceiling, looks like the bar has been around for quite a while. I could’ve looked that up but didn’t bother. No cellphone tonight, no internet, just real life. The lights are low, music’s playing low. All there’s missing is smoke clouds. I could stay here forever, is what kept going through my mind. As I went to sit down, I took out my notepad and the book I was currently reading: R. D. Laing, Facts of Life. (Crazy shit in there, you should read it.) I need to have something to do. To keep me from overthinking my life and myself. Also, I don’t want to feel the need to talk. That’s for later, when I’m drunk enough.

The only people in here, are still having dinner. One table on my righthand side, women in their thirties. They look like colleagues. Got a weird glance from them. Straight ahead of me, a couple of metres, is a couple giggling over their leftovers from dinner. They didn’t notice me, only had eyes for each other. I miss love, I think to myself. 

The waiting staff is friendly. Whenever I order a drink - anywhere in Scotland - I always get asked how I’m doing today. Sometimes followed with love, dear, sweetheart. Some women might hate that, in our feminist society. But I don’t, I really like it when people ask me how I’m doing. And I still find it charming when a friendly old fellow calls me sweetheart. Something about nostalgia in those words, they were used in the good old days. There’s a familiar face behind the bar — I was here two days ago when I met Sean. That bartender was working too that night and I snapped two photos of him, I recall. You can’t really see his face. I don’t know his name, I only know how he looks. Blonde hair, shaven at the sides, into a fade and longer at the top. Nicely styled, combed to the back, like every guy in 2020. Handsome face, nothing special. He has a tattoo of a pocket watch on his left underarm. So basic. Not very tall, not short either. Strong hands. I think he works out, ‘cause he has clear veins on his arms. Looks muscular, especially his chest. His t-shirt’s just a little too tight. He definitely works out. He’s not my type, apart from the fact he’s wearing black Vans. Nonetheless, he makes me feel at ease. Probably because he didn’t give me that “wtf is she doing here by herself”-look. 

I’m singing along to the rock music softly coming through the speakers. I feel perfectly fine, sitting at my table alone. Down in Mexico starts playing and I’m vibing to it. I add it to my playlist on Spotify. How did I not think of this before? I’m snapping my fingers to the beat. Humming to the song. Occasional soft singing whenever I know the words. I close my eyes, do this thing I do with my shoulders and imagine I’m sitting in a rusty bar somewhere in America. Suddenly, I notice I’m not the only one who's vibing. That blonde bartender passes my table quite a lot. He’s singing and dancing, grooving. Timid, but still obvious enough for me to notice. I’m turning this into a game in my head. What songs do we both know? All of them. We sing and dance along to every rock song. I want to talk to him, make him notice I like him.

All of a sudden, there’s a shot of sheer happiness. Tutti Frutti’s playing now. I smile from ear to ear. My singing and dancing get just a little bit more intense, I don’t care who hears or sees. I like this feeling. I write in my notebook: 

“Tutti Frutti playing - reminds me of Celina. She was my friend during my first few days in Inverness. That’s her happy song. It’ll forever make me smile :-)”

What you need to know about Celina, is that she’s 19, travelling alone through Scotland and she lost her parents, both, in a span of 5 months. I’m feeling very content with myself, listening to my friend’s happy song. Reminiscing over our moments together, our shared sadness. Finally found someone who’s like me. 

Now, the universe moves in mysterious ways and on this night, for a short moment — 6 minutes and 33 seconds to be exact — magic happened. Tutti Frutti fades out. I sigh, this was so nice. The next song starts playing. I recognise it in a split-second. Goosebumps running along the top of my head. Shit’s about to get emotional. I throw myself over my notebook and quickly add:

“& immediately after that, Hallelujah started playing. Hi mom, glad you’re here with me” - little sketch of a heart added -

This is the first time in five years I feel her presence. Like, really, FEEL. You wouldn’t understand if you’ve never lost a parent at the age of 18 while you’re a “non-believer”. No religion to give me hope that she’s still around. Tears start to swell up. I don’t want to do this here. Not in public. I hate crying in public. But I also can’t storm off to the toilet, there’s no one to watch my stuff and my camera’s in my bag. Fuck it. I let one tear stream down my face. I can feel it roll over my cheek down to my chin. Until it falls and drops on the table. Good, now we can move on again. I’ve learnt to contain sadness in small moments. Just a little crying sesh and after that, we’re fine.

The bartender starts to clear all the tables, taking away the menu cards and flowers. It’s almost 9.30pm, karaoke is about to start. He leaves my table for last. My stomach turns. Did he see me break down? Fuck, he’s coming my way.

“Let me just.. uhm.. I’ll take this away for ya.” nervous smile "Thank you.” I nervously smile back

I wanted to say more but couldn’t. There’s still a huge lump in my throat and talking too much would just make me pour my eyes out. Can’t do that.

I decide to resume our sing-a-long competition. That’ll make me happy again. The bar’s still pretty deserted, so nothing else to do and this guy has my full attention. He’s proven to be the perfect distraction — I’m pretending to read more than anything. I catch myself staring at the same page. Rereading the same words over and over. He keeps on passing my table, singing, dancing. I follow his lead.

Is he playing along? Could he be curious about how many songs we both know the words to, like me? I keep on looking up from my book or notes every time he glides by, which he sometimes literally does. At one point, I think I looked up too eager. He noticed and turned around to smile. I’ve fallen in love. Hard.

#goldn-curls #draft #story #short story #love story #feelings

[infinitehours]

Chapter 1

This fic is based off of The Haunted Mansion “Story and Song from the Haunted Mansion” audio.  It will also be based deeply off of my first impressions of the ride itself when I was a kid going on it those first few times in my life.

Also, if you’re wondering why there isn’t much description on our two main mortals, it’s because I felt it best to leave that up to the imagination (there was never much description in the original either).  I know I can’t get away without descriptives for every character though, so I’m not going to try for that, but hopefully it wasn’t too jarring.

~~~

Trigger warnings: ghosts, death concepts/discussions, murder, suicide, abuse, blood, lots of scary stuff (horror), implied sexual abuse, cursing (damn and hell), drug abuse, domestic violence, attempted rape (never completed; in a later chapter).

Other Author notes: There’s supposed to be an audio of the Big Ben chime (to parallel the demonic clock and represent that this is the realm of mortals), but I can’t currently find a way to create this audio file.  So.  Imagination I guess.

 Someone created a recording of the Big Ben clock from Parliament Square.  Cars and all, it definitely sounds like a city.  I will link it here in case you all want to hear it and use it to help your imagination, but it was NOT made by me, and as such it is NOT officially part of this story:

https://freesound.org/people/Noise%20Cuisine/sounds/47098/

___

Table of Contents Link

~~~

Ch 1: Miss Jackson

Have you ever seen a haunted house?  You know the kind I mean.  That old dark house that’s usually at the end of a dimly lit street.  The windows are broken and boarded, and the shutters hang loose on their hinges.  The trees have grown wild, their branches brush against the sides of the weathering house making strange noises in the night.  There’s a high vine-covered fence around the property.  Is it there to keep somebody out, or is it there to keep something inside?  It’s a house that people avoid walking past at night.  Strange sounds come from within the walls, and it’s said that eerie lights have been seen both in the attic window and in the graveyard at the side of the house.

Seen, at least….by some….

Our story revolves around this mysterious mansion….

But I’m getting a-head of myself…aren’t I?

So let me ask a different question…

                                 Have you ever been chased?

~

He was panting the whole way.

Round the corner where the pastor liked to play his accordion.

Over the iron wrought fence that blocked off the alley from the cars.

Through the double doors of the unused library.

Out the back.

Through the nook by J. H. Thomas’ shop.

And over the broken manhole right to the berry-red bench in the tiny cranny.

Michael knew the route like the back of his hand, spent every day of his life traversing it.  Or, at least, every day of his High School life, which was the only important part of your life you considered when you’re fresh faced and under twenty.

But they were right behind him, he could swear they were, thumping along and hollering; you could only run for so long.  The clock of the church chimed from somewhere a ways away, in Big Ben style; Six PM.  

He jostled a trash can on his way, half-heartedly hoping that it might slow his pursuers down as he rounded the corner.  The relief that flooded him when his target, a bench, came into his sights was a thankful feeling

For all of five seconds.

Then he was yanked back by his collar, just out of reach of his fragile safety net.  Falling to the hard concrete, three faces loomed into his view; three black leather jackets swarming around him and his red hoodie like vultures around a recent bloody kill

Jacob Matheson.  The head vulture, front and center, grinning over his recent (and recurring) victim.

He was the son of the owner of the largest retail store in town, which earned him a bit of a celebrity status in the sleepy rurals of northern Virginia.  Probably the only reason why he was the leader of his little gang.  

“What’s your hurry, huh?

Michael grimaced as a boot came down on his chest

“I…ugh.  I was just on my way back home..

“Liar. You live other way.”

“What’s the super special occasion?” Another boy said.  “We never see you out anymore, Mikey-Wikey.  You wouldn’t go off without at least saying ‘hi’, would you?”

“Our feelings might get hurt.  You wouldn’t want that now would you?”

Michael refused to answer that, wincing as the toe of the boot dug deeper into his ribs

“So how you going to make it up to us, huh?  How much you got on you?”

“Nothing.”

“You’re a really terrible liar, Mikey.”  Jacob gestured towards the others.

Two seconds later and they pried Michael’s hands off of his pockets to start their rummaging

“Nice.  A whole twenty.”

“There’s more than that! What’s this?”

The other boy held a miniature keychain of a football, twirling it around on one of his fingers

“That’s mine. Give it back!”  Michael lunged, yet the boy had already tossed it to another

The three jeered and danced around him, taking turns with the keychain.

“Ooh. Almost got it that time!

“Gonna practice your jumping skills with us, huh?”

“Good dog!”

“Go get it, boy!

“You think we can teach him to beg?”

“You want it?? You want it?? HA!”

Jacob was last to receive, and Michael turned to him in irritation.   “You have my money.  You played your little game.  Can you just leave already?”

“I don’t know.  We just got here.”  A murmur of agreement.  “What are you doing with this thing anyways?  Pining for the good ol’ days when you were still on the team?”

“Aw, Jacob.  Can’t you see he misses playing?”  One of the other vultures said.

“Oh. I’m sorry. Did I say that too soon?  How long’s it been?  Four months?  Five? Got your leg all healed up nicely?”

One of the boys pretended to make a pass at his left leg, causing him to jerk into the defensive.  Jacob flashed a grin at the sight.

“Still not in tip top shape, huh?  Considering what happened, playing with this little football is probably the closest thing to a real game you’ll ever going to get for the rest of your life.  But don’t worry, Mikey.”

Jacob’s little wicked sneer only grew smug.

“I’m sure the rest of the team will do just fine without you.  You were just the water boy, weren’t you?  Most benched player ever in ol’ G. H. T. High.  Quite the honor.”

Michael gritted his teeth; he never cared too much about playing football, but he also didn’t need to hear this.

“But you can come play with us any time.  We don’t mind that you’ve got a bum leg.  In fact, how about you go long right now?”

Jacob pulled back with a sinister little smirk and a clear intent to throw it straight to the roof of the nearby apartment building.  Unfortunately for him, the football was snatched just before he let it loose.

“Wow, what do you know? A real life wannabe biker gang in their native environment.”

The football’s new owner was a welcome sight.  A pink sweater, a black skirt with an embroidered horse, a white blouse, and the look of someone who had just ate a whole bag of sour gummy worms (Jacob and his gang tended to have that effect on people).

“Ugh.  It’s the girlfriend.  Go away, Karen. Nobody invited you.”

“As if I need an invitation to rain on your parade. If you’ll give back the money that I’m sure you stole, we can be on our way and I won’t have to tell anyone about this.”

A speck of realization later and Jacob was staring at Michael with an even wider grin than before.

“Wait, is SHE why you came out of your house?  Date night? OooooOOOoooooh. Kissy kissy.”

The boys started making smooching noises, prompting Karen to let out a sigh of frustation.

“Mr. Vance!  Mr. Vance!  The jerks are back and they’re threatening your customers!”

“Whine all you want, what’s that old geezer even going to d-“

“Come over here, Mr. Arrow.  There’s a bit of vandalism I think you ought to look at.”  A much older man in black stained overalls came seemingly from out of nowhere, seemingly gesturing for the chief of police to follow.  Jacob’s face dropped.

“Scram!” Jacob said, not even waiting for his friends before booking it straight out of the alley.  They were generous, at least, if only in the fact that they threw Michael’s money back in his face.

Mr. Vance watched them retreat and let out a long, drawn out sigh.  “You kids okay?”

“As good as can be, I guess.” Mike said.

“Thanks for pretending for us, Mr. Vance.”  Karen said.

“A little lie goes a long ways sometimes.  I only wish I could convince an officer to hang around here.  Could do with a little less thieves.  Those three are gotta get their comeuppance sometime.”

“Yeah?”  Mike grabbed his keychain.  “I’m still waiting for that to happen.”

“Might come sooner than you think.  Well…come in then.  I’ve got your package in.”

Mr. Vance took out his handkerchief and wiped his brow; the wrinkles that lined an otherwise middle aged face seemed particularly discernable that evening.  Coupled with the silvery threads of his hair, anyone who didn’t know any better would have had the man pegged for a senior citizen.  But he was very much in his thirty’s, at most, and the reasons for why he looked so aged had often been the subject of discussion in town.

Especially considering that his store was easily one of the most important places around.  

The big retailer shop that lay in the heart of town was nice, but they often didn’t carry specialty items (and didn’t appreciate you asking to order them).  That was where Mr. Vance and his store came in.  Sure, it was tiny and cramped, and there was always a heap of unsightly broken bits of rusted metal in the corners near a large creepy portrait of a woman holding a skull, but there was so much of the place that was filled with mysterious and old objects, books galore, and more candy than you could ever possibly eat in your entire lifetime.  The man had no organization to speak of, so whenever a person cared to carouse the shelves they were almost guaranteed to find something wondrously unexpected.  

Karen loved it here.  As much as Mike liked old nick-knacks himself, it was mostly for her sake that he stepped foot inside time and time again.  Whenever she would examine a row of clocks or ancient utensils or even the words on the spine edge of a book, her whole demeanor would brighten up.  He loved watching her when they were here, she would always hold a smile on her face as she delicately traced a finger over things that were several times her own age.

Currently, she seemed distracted with an old timey animation device.  He couldn’t remember for the life of him what the things were called, but they consisted of a cylinder with slots for viewing, and had an image painted all around the insides.  The images were slightly different, so that when the cylinder was turned quickly it would simulate movement.  Animation.

Unfortunately, the one that Karen found seemed to be broken.  She couldn’t get it to spin, the painted crows were forever stuck in place…

“M-miss Jackson? I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you there.  You’re here….early.” Mr. Vance said.

Mike looked up….the air somehow felt…colder  as his eyes fixated on the lone figure standing in the middle of the room.

The strangely dressed lone figure standing in the middle of the room, who was most certainly not in the middle of the room a few seconds ago.

A deep green dress like a thick moss on a dark forest floor, with a pinstripe blouse and matching apron.  Dark brown hair and vivid blue eyes were part and parcel of a face that oddly looked both amused and bored all at once.  And the bit of frill and bow on the top of her head seemed to so wonderfully match her attire yet be so terribly out of place in a modern day setting.

She looked like a maid.  An old-fashioned maid.  A very lost old-fashioned maid, considering that there were no buildings nearby that were large or rich enough to need to hire one.  

“My….employer…” There was surprisingly nothing strange or unusual about her voice, “…is rather anxious tonight, so I had hoped to present to him the items I had ordered.  If you happen to have them ready, of course.”

“Y-yes…Yes.  You…you wouldn’t happen to have come alone, Miss Jackson, would you?”

The girl smiled wistfully.  “Are we ever truly alone?”

Mr. Vance visibly gulped.  “Right…of…of course not.  I-I-I got your package right here.  Oh..Michael?”

Mike tore his eyes away from the woman back to the shopkeeper.  Mr. Vance’s demeanor seemed….suddenly different.  His face had gone a little pale, and there was an almost imperceptible waver in the way his voice cracked.  

“Would you…would you mind waiting a bit while I wrap up Miss Jackson’s items here?”

“Uh...Yeah, no problem.”

“Thanks.”

Mike headed over to where Karen had been curiously watching the whole exchange.

“Is there a costume party we weren’t invited to?” He asked her jokingly, earning a smile.

“She looks…kind of familiar.  Like I’ve seen her around…just…not in that getup.”

“Yeah…I feel like I’ve seen her around, too.   But I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to her before…”

She turned back to the animation device….and found it….spinning.  Ever so gently.

The painted crows began to flap their wings, rhythmically in time with the cylinder.

But then…faster.  And faster.  And furiously faster still, until the image was a seamless representation of the act of flying.

“Mike….” Karen said, the nervousness clear in her tone.  The device was not electronic, yet seemed more than willing to move completely on its own.

Even he was a little hesitant to touch it, yet his mind was made up when he could feel the warmth of her fingers clinging to his.

Clap.  His hand clamped down on it.  When he let go, the device obediently remained still.

“Heh.”  Mike’s laugh was more nervous than amused.  Karen’s hand squeezed his again.   “Must be off balanced or something.  Speaking of spooky, though, did you check out the way Mr. Vance was- ”

“Are you going back to the cliffs?”  The voice behind him interrupted.

Mike spun around to find himself face to face with the strange woman.  Up close, it was more obvious that she couldn’t have been more than a few shades older than either of them, despite her rather timeless attire.

“Yes….we are…” Karen anxiously responded, “But how did you know that?”

“I’ve watched you go up there.  The house I stay in happens to be nearby.”

“Where?” Mike butted in, “The only buildings up that way are all abandoned or mostly destroyed.  It would be kinda hard to live in any of them.  It’s pretty much a ghost town.”

“Yes…” The woman said, a faint smile on her lips. “Yes, you’re right.”

He couldn’t tell what she meant by that.  Was she saying that she wasn’t living in any of those buildings?

Karen coughed. “Um.  Well I like your dress.  The green looks very pretty on you.”

“Oh thank you.  I think so too.   It also makes my employer uncomfortable and likely brings up awkward memories for him.  Which is the other reason why I wear it.”

He and Karen exchanged a funny look.  He couldn’t tell which was odder, the fact that she purposely wore something just to make her employer uncomfortable or the fact that she just casually dropped this information to complete strangers like it was a normal subject to talk about.

“Miss Jackson?  Your items…”  Mr. Vance interrupted.

“Of course.”

The shopkeeper seemed to hesitate as he handed her a bag full of several individually wrapped parcels.

“One of these…you do know one of these things on your list is…”

“Illegal?” The young woman didn’t mince words or even flinch, which is more than what Mr. Vance did in response, “Technically it’s not, if people only bother to read the law anymore.  But yes. I’m well aware. But as you are quite aware, my employer is not concerned with legal matters…Anymore.”

“…I’m well aware.” He softly said.

“Will I see you later then?”  The young woman said as she turned to leave.

But Mr. Vance kept his head turned away from her and firmly on a broken clock in front of him, eventually squeezing his eyes shut as though he could will her away.

“…Have a good evening then, Mr. Vance.”

“…Same to you, Miss Jackson.”

Before she left the shop proper, the woman turned one last time to Michael and Karen.

“By the way…Tom Sawyer’s road is the faster way back to town if you’re coming from the cliffs.  And if you’re ever caught in an unfortunate rainstorm, please do stop by.  You’re more than welcome to hide under our awning.”

“We...never go to the cliffs on a rainy day.”  Karen said.

“Never say never,” With the twist of a tiny smile, the woman left the shop.

The atmosphere grew quiet.

~~~

And it remained silent for a solid minute.

“…Hey Karen?  You can get our stuff, right?”

“Wha-?”

Before she knew it, Mike had just thrusted the twenty in her hands and ran out the door.

“Hey…Mike!”

“What’s he doing?” Mr. Vance said, his brows furrowed in concern.

“I think he’s trying to catch up that woman.  Who was she, anyway?  I don’t see her often enough around.”

“That’s because she doesn’t live in town.  That’s Eleanor Jackson.  ‘Nell’ for short.  She’s up near the cliffs.”

“Where near the cliffs?”

Mr. Vance handed her two glass bottles of crème soda and a heart shaped package. “I’m sure Michael would be very insistent that you don’t open it until you’re together.”  

Purposefully changing the subject.

“…And you said that women asked for something illegal…”

“Now don’t you repeat anything you’ve heard here…”

“I…I won’t.  But is everything alright?  If she’s forcing you to do something illeg-“

“It’s not like that.”

It was said so forcefully and emotionally that Karen took a step back.

“…It’s not like that.” Mr. Vance said, softer this time, “But you should go and stop Mike.  Nothing good will come of him following after Nell like that.”

Package and soda in hand, she started to do just that.

“Karen.”

She paused.

“…Don’t always trust Nell.  She often only gives you half of the truth.”

With that statement freshly turning in her head, Karen went out into the alley looking for Mike.

He didn’t get very far; right around the corner he looked up at her sheepishly from the ground, while a friendly face tried unwind a long bit of fishing line.

“I tried catching her, but…”

“I think I ended up catchin’ a young ‘un instead.”  Mr. Mortimer flashed a grin at her before untwisting the hook from Mike’s jacket, “You ain’t quite the fish I be looking for, lad.”

Mr. Mortimer was a fisherman.  Probably by trade, too, as that’s the only thing she’s ever seen him do.  He always had a fishing pole in one hand, his trusty (but peculiar looking) tackle box in the other, a smile on his wrinkled face, and a song on his lips.  Very few people in town could ever say that they hated the man, even though he did always smell like fish.

He was also frequently wet, as he claims he never had good balance and constantly fell in.  She had no doubts about that.  The sight of him trudging around soaked in the frigid air….She often felt freezing just looking at him….

“Are you alright, Mr. Mortimer?” Karen said, offering to help him up.  His hands were cold as usual.

“Aye I’m alright, I’m alright.  No harm done,” With Karen’s help, he stood steady on his feet again, “But tell me young ‘un, what had you such ‘n a hurry?  Who were ya chasin’ after?”

“Some lady we saw at the shop.”

Mr. Mortimer flashed him a joking grin.  “Chasin’ after another while you got your young lady here?”

Karen snorted.

“Hey! No! That’s not what I meant! Karen!” Mike didn’t find it as amusing as they did, and gestured her to help him out.

“Mr. Vance said her name is Eleanor Jackson.”

Mr. Mortimer’s eyebrows rose in recognition.

“You know her?” Karen asked.

“Aye.”

“Did she come down this way?” Mike said.

“Sorry, young ‘un, I didn’t see anyone but yourself.”

“But I could have sworn she turned here…”

“She be a sweet girl, no doubt.  But you’re best off not followin’ her home, for your own good.”

“Mr. Vance said something like that…” Karen said.

“He be a smart one.  Is he in today?”

They nodded.  Before they could say anything else, Mr. Mortimer bid them good day and went off to the shop.

“Mr. Vance didn’t want to answer any questions about her either…”

“Everyone’s acting funny about her.  I don’t get it.”

“Well…let’s not worry about it anymore.  I really want to go to the cliffs tonight before it gets too dark,” She shook the heart shaped parcel slyly, “What’s in the box?”

“Three guesses,” Mike grinned.

“Hmmm,” She held it up to her ear and closed her eyes, as though she could somehow divine the answer, “Caramel chews, sour worms and…black licorice gummy bears?”

“Right on all three counts!”

“Do I get a prize?”

“Do I count?  Or are you still mad at me because I went ‘chasing’ after someone else?”

“I guess I can forgive you,” She said coyly, giving him a peck on the cheek.

They walked off together, hand in hand, too distracted with each other to notice the growing storm clouds overhead….

Storm clouds the weatherman never predicted.

Storm clouds that never moved from their position above the woods that led up to the cliffs.  

#chapter 1

[unto-myself-together]

Of Stories and Songs: A Haunted Mansion Fanfic Ch 1

Ok.  If I keep going on fretting about how imperfect this chapter is, I’m never going to get it out.

I have now edited a TON of stuff in this chapter.  

This fic is based off of The Haunted Mansion “Story and Song from the Haunted Mansion” audio.  It will also be based deeply off of my first impressions of the ride itself when I was a kid going on it those first few times in my life.

Also, if you’re wondering why there isn’t much description on our two main mortals, it’s because I felt it best to leave that up to the imagination (there was never much description in the original either).  I know I can’t get away without descriptives for every character though, so I’m not going to try for that, but hopefully it wasn’t too jarring.

~~~

Trigger warnings: ghosts, death concepts/discussions, murder, suicide, abuse, blood, lots of scary stuff (horror), implied sexual abuse, cursing (damn and hell), drug abuse, domestic violence, attempted rape (never completed; in a later chapter).

Other Author notes: There’s supposed to be an audio of the Big Ben chime (to parallel the demonic clock and represent that this is the realm of mortals), but I can’t currently find a way to create this audio file.  So.  Imagination I guess. 

~~~

Table of Contents: 

Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3 , Chapter 4 , Chapter 5 ,

Chapter 6 , Chapter 7

~~~

Ch 1: Miss Jackson

Have you ever seen a haunted house?  You know the kind I mean.  That old dark house that’s usually at the end of a dimly lit street.  The windows are broken and boarded, and the shutters hang loose on their hinges.  The trees have grown wild, their branches brush against the sides of the weathering house making strange noises in the night.  There’s a high vine-covered fence around the property.  Is it there to keep somebody out, or is it there to keep something inside?  It’s a house that people avoid walking past at night.  Strange sounds come from within the walls, and it’s said that eerie lights have been seen both in the attic window and in the graveyard at the side of the house. 

Seen, at least….by some….

Our story revolves around this mysterious mansion….

But I’m getting a-head of myself…aren’t I?

So let me ask a different question…

Have you ever been chased?

 He was panting the whole way.

Round the corner where the pastor liked to play his accordion.

Over the iron wrought fence that blocked off the alley from the cars.

 Through the double doors of the unused library.

Out the back.

Through the nook by J. H. Thomas’ shop.

And over the broken manhole right to the berry-red bench in the tiny cranny. 

Michael knew the route like the back of his hand, spent every day of his life traversing it.  Or, at least, every day of his High School life, which was the only important part of your life you considered when you’re fresh faced and under twenty. 

But they were right behind him, he could swear they were, thumping along and hollering; you could only run for so long.  The clock of the church chimed from somewhere a ways away, in Big Ben style; Six PM.  

He jostled a trash can on his way, half-heartedly hoping that it might slow his pursuers down as he rounded the corner.  The relief that flooded him when his target, a bench, came into his sights was a thankful feeling

For all of five seconds.

Then he was yanked back by his collar, just out of reach of his fragile safety net.  Falling to the hard concrete, three faces loomed into his view; three black leather jackets swarming around him and his red hoodie like vultures around a recent bloody kill

Jacob Matheson.  The head vulture, front and center, grinning over his recent (and recurring) victim.

He was the son of the owner of the largest retail store in town, which earned him a bit of a celebrity status in the sleepy rurals of northern Virginia.  Probably the only reason why he was the leader of his little gang.   

“What’s your hurry, huh?

Michael grimaced as a boot came down on his chest

“I…ugh.  I was just on my way back home..

“Liar. You live other way.”

“What’s the super special occasion?” Another boy said.  “We never see you out anymore, Mikey-Wikey.  You wouldn’t go off without at least saying ‘hi’, would you?” 

“Our feelings might get hurt.  You wouldn’t want that now would you?”

Michael refused to answer that, wincing as the toe of the boot dug deeper into his ribs

“So how you going to make it up to us, huh?  How much you got on you?”

“Nothing.”

“You’re a really terrible liar, Mikey.”  Jacob gestured towards the others.

Two seconds later and they pried Michael’s hands off of his pockets to start their rummaging

“Nice.  A whole twenty.”

“There’s more than that! What’s this?”

The other boy held a miniature keychain of a football, twirling it around on one of his fingers

“That’s mine. Give it back!”  Michael lunged, yet the boy had already tossed it to another

The three jeered and danced around him, taking turns with the keychain.

“Ooh. Almost got it that time!

“Gonna practice your jumping skills with us, huh?”

“Good dog!”

“Go get it, boy!

“You think we can teach him to beg?”

“You want it?? You want it?? HA!”

Jacob was last to receive, and Michael turned to him in irritation.   “You have my money.  You played your little game.  Can you just leave already?”

“I don’t know.  We just got here.”  A murmur of agreement.  “What are you doing with this thing anyways?  Pining for the good ol’ days when you were still on the team?”

“Aw, Jacob.  Can’t you see he misses playing?”  One of the other vultures said.

“Oh. I’m sorry. Did I say that too soon?  How long’s it been?  Four months?  Five? Got your leg all healed up nicely?”

One of the boys pretended to make a pass at his left leg, causing him to jerk into the defensive.  Jacob flashed a grin at the sight.

“Still not in tip top shape, huh?  Considering what happened, playing with this little football is probably the closest thing to a real game you’ll ever going to get for the rest of your life.  But don’t worry, Mikey.”

Jacob’s little wicked sneer only grew smug.

“I’m sure the rest of the team will do just fine without you.  You were just the water boy, weren’t you?  Most benched player ever in ol’ G. H. T. High.  Quite the honor.” 

Michael gritted his teeth; he never cared too much about playing football, but he also didn’t need to hear this.

“But you can come play with us any time.  We don’t mind that you’ve got a bum leg.  In fact, how about you go long right now?”

Jacob pulled back with a sinister little smirk and a clear intent to throw it straight to the roof of the nearby apartment building.  Unfortunately for him, the football was snatched just before he let it loose.

“Wow, what do you know? A real life wannabe biker gang in their native environment.” 

The football’s new owner was a welcome sight.  A pink sweater, a black skirt with an embroidered horse, a white blouse, and the look of someone who had just ate a whole bag of sour gummy worms (Jacob and his gang tended to have that effect on people). 

“Ugh.  It’s the girlfriend.  Go away, Karen. Nobody invited you.”

“As if I need an invitation to rain on your parade. If you’ll give back the money that I’m sure you stole, we can be on our way and I won’t have to tell anyone about this.”

A speck of realization later and Jacob was staring at Michael with an even wider grin than before.

“Wait, is SHE why you came out of your house?  Date night? OooooOOOoooooh. Kissy kissy.”

The boys started making smooching noises, prompting Karen to let out a sigh of frustation.

“Mr. Vance!  Mr. Vance!  The jerks are back and they’re threatening your customers!”

“Whine all you want, what’s that old geezer even going to d-“

“Come over here, Mr. Arrow.  There’s a bit of vandalism I think you ought to look at.”  A much older man in black stained overalls came seemingly from out of nowhere, seemingly gesturing for the chief of police to follow.  Jacob’s face dropped.

“Scram!” Jacob said, not even waiting for his friends before booking it straight out of the alley.  They were generous, at least, if only in the fact that they threw Michael’s money back in his face. 

Mr. Vance watched them retreat and let out a long, drawn out sigh.  “You kids okay?”

“As good as can be, I guess.” Mike said.

“Thanks for pretending for us, Mr. Vance.”  Karen said.

“A little lie goes a long ways sometimes.  I only wish I could convince an officer to hang around here.  Could do with a little less thieves.  Those three are gotta get their comeuppance sometime.” 

 “Yeah?”  Mike grabbed his keychain.  “I’m still waiting for that to happen.”

“Might come sooner than you think.  Well…come in then.  I’ve got your package in.”

Mr. Vance took out his handkerchief and wiped his brow; the wrinkles that lined an otherwise middle aged face seemed particularly discernable that evening.  Coupled with the silvery threads of his hair, anyone who didn’t know any better would have had the man pegged for a senior citizen.  But he was very much in his thirty’s, at most, and the reasons for why he looked so aged had often been the subject of discussion in town.

Especially considering that his store was easily one of the most important places around.  

The big retailer shop that lay in the heart of town was nice, but they often didn’t carry specialty items (and didn’t appreciate you asking to order them).  That was where Mr. Vance and his store came in.  Sure, it was tiny and cramped, and there was always a heap of unsightly broken bits of rusted metal in the corners near a large creepy portrait of a woman holding a skull, but there was so much of the place that was filled with mysterious and old objects, books galore, and more candy than you could ever possibly eat in your entire lifetime.  The man had no organization to speak of, so whenever a person cared to carouse the shelves they were almost guaranteed to find something wondrously unexpected.  

Karen loved it here.  As much as Mike liked old nick-knacks himself, it was mostly for her sake that he stepped foot inside time and time again.  Whenever she would examine a row of clocks or ancient utensils or even the words on the spine edge of a book, her whole demeanor would brighten up.  He loved watching her when they were here, she would always hold a smile on her face as she delicately traced a finger over things that were several times her own age. 

Currently, she seemed distracted with an old timey animation device.  He couldn’t remember for the life of him what the things were called, but they consisted of a cylinder with slots for viewing, and had an image painted all around the insides.  The images were slightly different, so that when the cylinder was turned quickly it would simulate movement.  Animation.

Unfortunately, the one that Karen found seemed to be broken.  She couldn’t get it to spin, the painted crows were forever stuck in place…

“M-miss Jackson? I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you there.  You’re here….early.” Mr. Vance said.

Mike looked up….the air somehow felt…colder  as his eyes fixated on the lone figure standing in the middle of the room.

The strangely dressed lone figure standing in the middle of the room, who was most certainly not in the middle of the room a few seconds ago. 

A deep green dress like a thick moss on a dark forest floor, with a pinstripe blouse and matching apron.  Dark brown hair and vivid blue eyes were part and parcel of a face that oddly looked both amused and bored all at once.  And the bit of frill and bow on the top of her head seemed to so wonderfully match her attire yet be so terribly out of place in a modern day setting. 

She looked like a maid.  An old-fashioned maid.  A very lost old-fashioned maid, considering that there were no buildings nearby that were large or rich enough to need to hire one.  

“My….employer…” There was surprisingly nothing strange or unusual about her voice, “…is rather anxious tonight, so I had hoped to present to him the items I had ordered.  If you happen to have them ready, of course.”

“Y-yes…Yes.  You…you wouldn’t happen to have come alone, Miss Jackson, would you?”

The girl smiled wistfully.  “Are we ever truly alone?”

Mr. Vance visibly gulped.  “Right…of…of course not.  I-I-I got your package right here.  Oh..Michael?”

Mike tore his eyes away from the woman back to the shopkeeper.  Mr. Vance’s demeanor seemed….suddenly different.  His face had gone a little pale, and there was an almost imperceptible waver in the way his voice cracked.  

“Would you…would you mind waiting a bit while I wrap up Miss Jackson’s items here?”

“Uh...Yeah, no problem.”

“Thanks.”

Mike headed over to where Karen had been curiously watching the whole exchange. 

“Is there a costume party we weren’t invited to?” He asked her jokingly, earning a smile.

“She looks…kind of familiar.  Like I’ve seen her around…just…not in that getup.”

“Yeah…I feel like I’ve seen her around, too.   But I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to her before…”

She turned back to the animation device….and found it….spinning.  Ever so gently. 

The painted crows began to flap their wings, rhythmically in time with the cylinder.

But then…faster.  And faster.  And furiously faster still, until the image was a seamless representation of the act of flying.

“Mike….” Karen said, the nervousness clear in her tone.  The device was not electronic, yet seemed more than willing to move completely on its own. 

Even he was a little hesitant to touch it, yet his mind was made up when he could feel the warmth of her fingers clinging to his. 

Clap.  His hand clamped down on it.  When he let go, the device obediently remained still. 

“Heh.”  Mike’s laugh was more nervous than amused.  Karen’s hand squeezed his again.   “Must be off balanced or something.  Speaking of spooky, though, did you check out the way Mr. Vance was- ”

“Are you going back to the cliffs?”  The voice behind him interrupted.

Mike spun around to find himself face to face with the strange woman.  Up close, it was more obvious that she couldn’t have been more than a few shades older than either of them, despite her rather timeless attire.

“Yes….we are…” Karen anxiously responded, “But how did you know that?”

“I’ve watched you go up there.  The house I stay in happens to be nearby.”

“Where?” Mike butted in, “The only buildings up that way are all abandoned or mostly destroyed.  It would be kinda hard to live in any of them.  It’s pretty much a ghost town.”

“Yes…” The woman said, a faint smile on her lips. “Yes, you’re right.”

He couldn’t tell what she meant by that.  Was she saying that she wasn’t living in any of those buildings?

Karen coughed. “Um.  Well I like your dress.  The green looks very pretty on you.”

“Oh thank you.  I think so too.   It also makes my employer uncomfortable and likely brings up awkward memories for him.  Which is the other reason why I wear it.”

He and Karen exchanged a funny look.  He couldn’t tell which was odder, the fact that she purposely wore something just to make her employer uncomfortable or the fact that she just casually dropped this information to complete strangers like it was a normal subject to talk about. 

“Miss Jackson?  Your items…”  Mr. Vance interrupted. 

“Of course.” 

The shopkeeper seemed to hesitate as he handed her a bag full of several individually wrapped parcels. 

“One of these…you do know one of these things on your list is…”

“Illegal?” The young woman didn’t mince words or even flinch, which is more than what Mr. Vance did in response, “Technically it’s not, if people only bother to read the law anymore.  But yes. I’m well aware. But as you are quite aware, my employer is not concerned with legal matters…Anymore.”

“…I’m well aware.” He softly said.

“Will I see you later then?”  The young woman said as she turned to leave.

But Mr. Vance kept his head turned away from her and firmly on a broken clock in front of him, eventually squeezing his eyes shut as though he could will her away.

“…Have a good evening then, Mr. Vance.”

“…Same to you, Miss Jackson.”

Before she left the shop proper, the woman turned one last time to Michael and Karen.

“By the way…Tom Sawyer’s road is the faster way back to town if you’re coming from the cliffs.  And if you’re ever caught in an unfortunate rainstorm, please do stop by.  You’re more than welcome to hide under our awning.”

“We...never go to the cliffs on a rainy day.”  Karen said.

“Never say never,” With the twist of a tiny smile, the woman left the shop.

The atmosphere grew quiet. 

~~~

And it remained silent for a solid minute.

“…Hey Karen?  You can get our stuff, right?”

“Wha-?”

Before she knew it, Mike had just thrusted the twenty in her hands and ran out the door.

“Hey…Mike!”

“What’s he doing?” Mr. Vance said, his brows furrowed in concern.

“I think he’s trying to catch up that woman.  Who was she, anyway?  I don’t see her often enough around.”

“That’s because she doesn’t live in town.  That’s Eleanor Jackson.  ‘Nell’ for short.  She’s up near the cliffs.”

“Where near the cliffs?”

 Mr. Vance handed her two glass bottles of crème soda and a heart shaped package. “I’m sure Michael would be very insistent that you don’t open it until you’re together.”  

Purposefully changing the subject.

“…And you said that women asked for something illegal…”

“Now don’t you repeat anything you’ve heard here…”

“I…I won’t.  But is everything alright?  If she’s forcing you to do something illeg-“

“It’s not like that.”

It was said so forcefully and emotionally that Karen took a step back. 

“…It’s not like that.” Mr. Vance said, softer this time, “But you should go and stop Mike.  Nothing good will come of him following after Nell like that.”

Package and soda in hand, she started to do just that.

“Karen.”

She paused.

“…Don’t always trust Nell.  She often only gives you half of the truth.”

With that statement freshly turning in her head, Karen went out into the alley looking for Mike.

He didn’t get very far; right around the corner he looked up at her sheepishly from the ground, while a friendly face tried unwind a long bit of fishing line. 

“I tried catching her, but…”

“I think I ended up catchin’ a young ‘un instead.”  Mr. Mortimer flashed a grin at her before untwisting the hook from Mike’s jacket, “You ain’t quite the fish I be looking for, lad.”

Mr. Mortimer was a fisherman.  Probably by trade, too, as that’s the only thing she’s ever seen him do.  He always had a fishing pole in one hand, his trusty (but peculiar looking) tackle box in the other, a smile on his wrinkled face, and a song on his lips.  Very few people in town could ever say that they hated the man, even though he did always smell like fish. 

He was also frequently wet, as he claims he never had good balance and constantly fell in.  She had no doubts about that.  The sight of him trudging around soaked in the frigid air….She often felt freezing just looking at him….

“Are you alright, Mr. Mortimer?” Karen said, offering to help him up.  His hands were cold as usual. 

“Aye I’m alright, I’m alright.  No harm done,” With Karen’s help, he stood steady on his feet again, “But tell me young ‘un, what had you such ‘n a hurry?  Who were ya chasin’ after?”

“Some lady we saw at the shop.”

Mr. Mortimer flashed him a joking grin.  “Chasin’ after another while you got your young lady here?”

Karen snorted.

“Hey! No! That’s not what I meant! Karen!” Mike didn’t find it as amusing as they did, and gestured her to help him out.

“Mr. Vance said her name is Eleanor Jackson.”

Mr. Mortimer’s eyebrows rose in recognition. 

“You know her?” Karen asked.

“Aye.”

“Did she come down this way?” Mike said.

“Sorry, young ‘un, I didn’t see anyone but yourself.”

“But I could have sworn she turned here…”

“She be a sweet girl, no doubt.  But you’re best off not followin’ her home, for your own good.”

“Mr. Vance said something like that…” Karen said.

“He be a smart one.  Is he in today?”

They nodded.  Before they could say anything else, Mr. Mortimer bid them good day and went off to the shop. 

“Mr. Vance didn’t want to answer any questions about her either…”

“Everyone’s acting funny about her.  I don’t get it.”

“Well…let’s not worry about it anymore.  I really want to go to the cliffs tonight before it gets too dark,” She shook the heart shaped parcel slyly, “What’s in the box?”

“Three guesses,” Mike grinned.

“Hmmm,” She held it up to her ear and closed her eyes, as though she could somehow divine the answer, “Caramel chews, sour worms and…black licorice gummy bears?”

“Right on all three counts!”

“Do I get a prize?”

“Do I count?  Or are you still mad at me because I went ‘chasing’ after someone else?”

“I guess I can forgive you,” She said coyly, giving him a peck on the cheek.

They walked off together, hand in hand, too distracted with each other to notice the growing storm clouds overhead….

Storm clouds the weatherman never predicted.

Storm clouds that never moved from their position above the woods that led up to the cliffs.  

#haunted mansion fanfiction #the haunted mansion fanfiction #the haunted mansion fanfic #haunted mansion fanfic #my fanfiction #of stories and songs

[pandatookmycookies]

sorry in advance for the work but all of them :)

Sorry about the delay, couldn’t get on a computer and me phone is stubborn and wouldn’t let me copy the questions o.o 1. You woke up naked next to the last person you texted, what would you say? -That would be awkward as fuck considering last person I text was my mum xD

2. What’s going on between you and the last person you kissed?-Nothing o:

3. If your boyfriend or girlfriend was into drugs, would you care?-If I had a boyfriend or girlfriend that would be a miracle. All jokes aside, I mean as long as they were being careful and not taking some weird really dodgy shiz from Big G with no teeth or something I mean I guess it would be okay, as long as they knew what they were doing and it didn’t affect their everyday lives. If it did, then bitches gon be going to rehab to help them and make sure they don’t do the dying. Plus everything is technically a drug.

4. Is your last name longer than six letters?-M8... it’s like 13 or something xD

5. Was your last kiss drunk or sober?-I don’t remember what I did yesterday, never mind what I was like that long ago xD

6. Have you ever wanted to have someone but you messed it up?-Shit happens for a reason, usually its due to not actually telling the other person my feels and them having no idea x3

7. What does your last received text say?-”Kada busas?”

8. How many times have you kissed the last person you kissed?-Once? I think.

9. Where was your last kiss at?-I don’t even remember yo o.o

10. When is the last time you saw your sister?-Right now, she’s sat here, playing her drums x3

11. What do you drink in the morning?-Coffee. All of the coffee. Maybe some water, then some more coffee.

12. Where did you sleep last night?-In me bed, in a blanket burrito.

13. Do you think relationships are hard?-I don’t think so, as long as the other person is like all up for not having a difficult time.

14. If you could go back and change something in the past 5 months, would you?-Nah c: I’ve actually not done much other than quit noodles and get a permanent place at Lush over the past 5 months x3

15. You’re locked in a room with the last person you kissed, any problems?-Nah.

16. Would you rather it be sunny or rainy?-Can it be neutral? My eyes are sensitive so they water when it’s too sunny which means that my eyeliner does a smudge Q-Q And rain just makes me sleepy...

17. Do you know anyone with the same middle name as you?-I don’t have a middle name o:

18. Are you wearing jeans,sweatpants,or pajama pants?-Tights and thigh-high socks.

19. Do you think you will be in a relationship 3 years from now?-Probably not.

20. Does anyone like you?-I don’t read minds D: very unlikely tho.

21. Have you ever kissed someone with a name that starts with an S?-Idk?!?! Q-Q

22. Is the last person you kissed gay?-I don’t think so o: I mean you never know could be a surprise, but not as far as I am aware.

23. Is there a person you CANNOT stand?-Eh, Trump.

24. Have you ever considered getting a tattoo?-I gots one, and need many more!!

25. In the past week have you cried?-Oh yes. I had to run into the uni toilets to have a breakdown during lesson... that was fun.

26. What breed was the last dog you saw? -Golden retriever... (it was Goldi, he’s cuddling my feets :’3 )

27. Do you dry off in the shower or out of the shower?-Both, yolo.

28. Have you ever kissed a football player?-Nuh.

29. Do you think you’re old?-Nah. I’m actually a 2 year old badger in a human costume.

30. Do you like text messaging?-Better than speaking on the phone o.o

31. What type of day are you having?-I’m not dead! :D AND I’m covered in glitter!! so all is well.

32. Have you ever thought about getting your nose pierced?-I gots me nose pierced.

33. Do you prefer warm or cold weather?-Cold, cause there’s only so many clothes that you can take off before it becomes indecent exposure. Although I do like summer cause I can wear my skirts and shiz without 500 layers on top.

34. Is there a person of the opposite sex who means a lot to you?-I have a lot of people like that that mean a lot to me.

35. Would you prefer a relationship or a fling?-Relationship.

36. Are you a simple or complicated person?-I don’t even think I’d class myself a person xD

37. What song are you listening to?-None o: Goldi is snoring, so I guess you could class that as singing?

38. When you say you’re sorry do you mean it?-Always!!39. Is there a girl that knows everything or almost everything about you?-Aye. 40. What made you start liking the person you like now?-Idk o:41. When did you last receive a text message?-An hour or so ago.42. What is wrong with you right now?-What ISN’T wrong with me? XD 43. How well do you know the last female you texted?-I mean I’d say I know her pretty well o: She ma momma. 44. Does anyone disgust you?-Some people. 45. Would you date someone right now if they asked?-Depends o: Let’s get married. yolo.46. Are you in a good mood right now?-I have Raffaello, so yeah x3 47. Who was the last person you talked to in person?-Other than famallama, people at work c: 48. What color shirt are you wearing?-Its a black and white dress cause I cba to change from it after coming from work...49. Has someone recently told you something you didn’t want to hear?-Not as far as I am aware. 50. Anyone you’re giving up on?-Not at the mo o: 51. Do you hate the person you fell hardest for?-I wouldn’t say I hate him, people make mistakes and shit happens.

52. Have you ever thought about giving up on someone but couldn’t?-Yes.53. Do you like rain?-If I’m inside, or if it’s really warm summer and I need a dance in the rain. 54. Do you care if your boyfriend/girlfriend drinks?-As long as it’s not excessive and they don’t start being aggressive and stuff. 55. Have you ever liked somebody and never told them?-Yes. 56. Do you like to cuddle?-Yas Q-Q plz. Cuddles.57. Are you shy?-Yes, but I have a fake confidence that I can activate. 58. Do you get along with girls?-Depends if they get along with me x3 I get along with anyone that wants to get along with me c: 59. Have you dated the person you texted last?-Considering it was my momma... that would’ve been weird XD 60. What do you carry with you at all times?-My bag. 61. If you were paid 1 million dollars to spend the night in a supposed haunted house, would you?-Idk man o: I read some sixpence stories and don’t know if I could get myself in that predicament xD 62. Do you think you can last in a relationship for five months?-Yeah as long as the other person is willing to make it work too c: 63. Think back to October, were you in a relationship?-October of which year? xD 3 years ago, yeah, this October, nah. 64. The person you like kisses you on the forehead, do you find this cute?-Yas Q-Q 65. Did anything “cute” happen in the last week?-Sav bought me a new purse cause my pikachu wallet was falling apart Q-Q

66. How old are the last three people you kissed?-M8... I don’t even know how old they’ll be now D:

67. Would you rather pay to get your nails done or do them yourself?   -If I had nails that would be fab, but even if I did, I can’t have my nails did cause of my uni course Q-Q 68. Which do you like better- Zebra print or leopard print?-I prefer all the prints!! c: all da animal!!   69. Do you have any stickers on your car?    -Yas, it says ‘No problem’, and I gots a bulbasaur in a pokeball that I still need to put on c: 70. Would you rather listen to Luke Bryan or Lil Wayne?   -None o.o 71. Blackberry, Anroid, or iPhone?    -Android.72. When’s the last time you had pizza from Pizza Hut?    -Oml, ages ago Q-Q 73. Do you like diet soda?    -Yeah sure why not.74. What color are the walls in your room?    -Black and ivory c:75. Are you 16 or older?    -I am a 21. 76. Do you watch Pretty Little Liars?    -Nah.77. Do you have a job?    -Yas, I left noodles yesterday (very sad time), but now work at Lush c:  78. What are your initials?    -AD.79. Did you ever have braces?    -Yas, I kinda miss them.80. Are you from the south?-I’m from Lithuania... Thats more idk...??? you tell me where that is? XD   

81. What does your last status on facebook say?    -A post about me leaving noodles and how sad I am, and how imma miss them and thanking the team for my present and card Q-Q it was cute. 82. Do you still talk to the first person you ever kissed?    -Nah.83. Are you closer to your mom or your dad?    -Bit of both? Depends on what topic.84. Have you ever done cheerleading or gymnastics?    -Lol no XD Have you seen me??? XD I couldn’t possibly do those xD85. What’s the last movie you saw in theaters?    -Oh gosh... I don’t even remember o: 86. Do you smoke?    -Yas. Sorry.87. Would you rather wear heels or flip flops?    -Boots or trainers.88. Is your phone touch screen?    -Yas.89. Do you normally wear your hair straight or curly?    -Straight if I can, otherwise curly unless I cba to straighten it, then I hide it.90. Have you ever snuck out of your house?   -Yeah. 91. Would you rather swim in a river, lake, or pool?   -I can’t swim... So like... I’ll just dip my feet in x3  92. Have you ever made out in a car?    -Nah.93. …Had sex in a car?  -Nah.  94. Are you single or in a relationship?  -I am a one human.   95. What were you doing last night at midnight? -Sleeping. Luv sleep.    96. When’s the last time you saw fireworks?    -Whenever they were last did on the holidays or something. 97. Do you like the camera on your phone?    -Well it does a job o:98. Have you ever had a friend with benefits?    -Nah.99. Have you ever passed out from drinking? -Nope.   100. Are you friends with people on facebook that you actually hate?  -I don’t think so?   101. Have you ever had a pregnancy scare? -Every female has a pregnancy scare even if they’ve never had sex xD  102. Name your favorite Kesha song:    -Cannibal, but the nightcore version cause I am trash.103. Do you have any tan lines right now?  -m8 I’m pale as Casper the ghost.   104. Would you ever wear cowboy boots with shorts?  -Sure why not. Yolo.  P.s. sorry it took so long D: