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aethon-recs · 9 months

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Tomarrymort Advanced Pack – 12 Longfic Recs

If you’ve made your way through the Tomarrymort Starter Pack and Intermediate Pack reads, here are 12 beautifully written, timeless fics that are Tomarrymort on hard mode for when you’re ready to dive into something that will really challenge your every reading muscle. This selection of fics features some of the most skilled writing I’ve come across in the entire fandom, and I love how these authors tackle incredibly complex subject matter and plotlines and characterization choices with such bold and unflinching perspectives.

Please mind all tags (including CCNTW, explained here) as you may find some themes within some of these fics difficult or challenging to read for a variety of reasons.

This is Part 3 of a 3-part series (see here for Part 1 and Part 2). I hope you get as much enjoyment from reading these additional 3.1 million words of incredible Tomarrymort longfic as I have!

Tomarrymort Advanced Reads

ǟʟʍǟɢɛֆȶ by eldritcher (M, 134k, complete)

Setting: Canon Divergence – Book 6 Premise: If Harry and Dumbledore team up with Voldemort to save the magical world from a catastrophic threat. Why I rec it: Eldritcher delivers one of the most epic love stories of a lifetime — with Harry and Voldemort surviving a trip to the moon and back, and Harry’s love for Voldemort transcending time and space after Voldemort makes the ultimate sacrifice to save the world and, against all odds, return to Harry. The prose is absolutely transcendent — amongst the best I’ve encountered not only in fanfic, but in all of fiction I’ve ever read. I can’t say enough about how much I love Elditcher’s writing style and how beautifully the story unfolds — there’s a very nice lyrical rhythm underlying all the sentence structure and word choice in the fic that flows like nothing else I’ve read before.

Anabiosis by @itsevanffs (E, 32k, WIP)

Setting: Canon Divergence Pre-Book 1 Premise: If Voldemort resurrects early and takes a teaching job at Harry’s primary school. Why I rec it: This is one of the best and most realistic and gutting depictions I’ve ever read of the quiet tragedy of Harry’s pre-Hogwarts years growing up experiencing severe neglect and an absence of love throughout his entire childhood. @itsevanffs did a magnificent job of capturing Harry’s limited POV and all the fluttering hope his still-trusting heart holds when he meets Mr Riddle, the first teacher who’s ever treated him with kindness. My heart ached so much for Harry throughout this fic, and the emotional arc in this story has continued to haunt me for a very long time afterwards.

Eight Days a Week by @vestiges-of-light (E, 802k, complete)

Setting: Canon Divergence – Book 7 Premise: If Voldemort captures Harry shortly after his sixth year, which leads to an unlikely truce and eventual partnership that ends up saving the magical world. Why I rec it: This fic combines a sprawling political epic with an incredibly extensive exploration of kink. The author asks a great question in the tags: "Why is only vanilla sex literary?" — and this fic does a fantastic job of proving that messy, filthy, raw sex scenes don’t have to be made sanitized or palatable for mainstream consumption in order to have just as much of a place in a plot-driven, serious longfic as vanilla sex does. Against the high-stakes backdrop of international political intrigue, there’s a very nice domesticity to Harry and Voldemort’s relationship, and how much they trust each other and can be stripped bare and vulnerable in front of each other is very poignant and touching to read about.

Embryo by @cannibalinc (NR, 28k, WIP)

Setting: Time Travel (1940s) Premise: If mysterious new transfer student Harry appears in Tom’s sixth year in a state of near complete amnesia. Why I rec it: One of the defining character traits of Tom Riddle is that he’s an absolute genius — the most talented academic mind to ever walk through the doors of Hogwarts — and this fic absolutely delivers on that aspect. Told from Tom’s POV, this fic is like reading a complex multidisciplinary text spanning philosophy and physics and mathematics and magical theory, all interconnected by the mystery of how Harry appeared and where he came from and why he is so utterly forgettable to everyone but Tom.

found by @honbug (E, 112k, WIP)

Setting: Non-Magical AU Premise: If Tom grows up in a world with no magic, but has had strange recurring dreams his whole life — dreams of a boy with green eyes and a scar, dreams of a dark graveyard and magical snakes and other mysterious things. Why I rec it: The character work done in this fic is absolutely breathtaking — one of the best character studies of Tom Riddle I’ve ever come across. This is a Tom who grew up without magic, but is no less cold and vicious and psychopathic and teetering on the edge of madness. The story arc follows Tom from his early childhood through his rise as a ruthless leader in an organized crime syndicate not unlike the Death Eaters — all the while that he’s haunted by dreams of Harry, his Harry, even as the dreams start to drive him to the brink of insanity.

how large the teeth by MaidenMotherCrone (E, 257k, complete)

Setting: Voldemort Wins AU Premise: If Harry grows up as an outcast in a world where Grindelwald and Voldemort have already won long before he is born, but he’s still the subject of a prophecy that designates him as their world’s savior. Why I rec it: The worldbuilding is so exquisite and complex in this fic — the author did a spectacular job at completely reimagining the wizarding world from the ground up if the Dark Lord were to win a long time ago and how their extremely inequitable society would subsequently be structured. Harry’s defiance throughout is lovely, and his growing entanglement with Voldemort adds to all the high-stakes and risky moves that he makes throughout the fic. The plotline is very action-packed — a lot of complex plot threads are interwoven throughout the story, with an undercurrent of revolution and discontent simmering under the surface until it explodes in a glorious finale.

In Willing Sacrifice by @hikarimeroperiddle (M, 1,197k, WIP)

Setting: Canon Divergence – Book 4 Premise: If Harry finds Voldemort in Riddle Manor the summer before his fourth year, and enters into an unlikely alliance with him before returning to school that year. Why I rec it: This fic covers so much ground — at 1.2 million words (so far!), it’s the most detailed rewrite of canon starting from book 4 that I’ve ever come across, weaving in plenty of magical theory and political intrigue as Voldemort takes Harry under his protection initially in a mentor capacity. The relationship between Harry and Voldemort unfolds in such a beautiful way in this fic — with Harry growing to fall in love with Voldemort, despite all of Voldemort’s murderous and violent qualities, without losing an ounce of his humanity or the inherent goodness inside of his heart along the way.

Lover's Spit by @pinktom, @k3uuu (E, 88k, WIP)

Setting: Non-Magical AU Premise: If Harry and Tom grow up in a small town together in northern England, and Tom has harbored an obsession for Harry ever since primary school. Why I rec it: An absolutely stunning coming-of-age story set in modern times. This story is striking in so many different ways. It perfectly captures the voice of fringe internet communities in such an authentic way. It also poignantly captures the social isolation and erosion of privacy from living in a small town where gossip spreads like wildfire, and how the internet amplifies these dynamics. At the core of the story is a really sweet love story between Tom and Harry that I am literally obsessed with — every single one of their interactions is so tender and pure — and it’s such a startling contrast to how Tom’s internet persona is portrayed that makes the sweetness all the more heartfelt.

Mi Aedijekit by @kitastrophea (M, 282k, WIP)

Setting: Post-Canon Premise: If Harry is captured by Voldemort and placed under the Draught of Living Death, only to awaken in the far future where Voldemort has ruled over their world for over a thousand years. Why I rec it: A linguistic and sociological tour de force. When Harry wakes up from his magical coma over a thousand years into the future, the world has been entirely transformed, and the skill and effort that the author undertook in fleshing out a society where there’s been a thousand years of cultural change and evolution in language can’t be understated. One of the most unique and fun aspects of the story is learning the new vocabulary of the future alongside Harry for the first time. I love how the fic examines how even Voldemort gets bored with immortality after a millennia of ruling — and how, even with a thousand years separating them and memories of the earlier times scattered to the wind, Harry and Voldemort are still inextricably drawn together.

Of Kings, Of Pawns, and Of Men by @ambivalens999 (E, 129k, WIP)

Setting: Canon Divergence – Book 5 Premise: If Voldemort ends up in Harry’s body and Harry ends up in Tom Riddle’s body after a bad encounter with the dementors at the beginning of book 5, and they can’t figure out how to swap back. Why I rec it: This is such an interesting take on the bodyswap trope, which is given a very serious and plotty treatment here. For fear of the safety of his friends, Harry has to go along with returning to his 5th year at Hogwarts in Tom Riddle’s body and being sorted into Slytherin house, while Tom passes himself off as Harry Potter. There’s a mystery behind the depth of Tom’s knowledge and familiarity with Harry, as he knows more about Harry than even Voldemort should. Is it the scar horcrux? Is it Voldemort? Is it something else entirely? The inherent combativeness and magnetism between Harry and Tom keep the tension high as they push each other’s buttons and circle around each other like wolves trying to establish dominance.

Phobia by @katsitting (E, 48k, complete)

Setting: Post-Canon Premise: If Voldemort captures Harry and brutally tortures him to the point of breaking. Why I rec it: This fic does not sugarcoat Voldemort’s capacity for cruelty and sadism in any way, and I admire the author’s commitment to depicting the most horrific of scenarios. Having read countless fics with this setup, I’ll be honest, the depiction in this fic is probably the most likely outcome of any Voldemort-captures-Harry scenario. They do not fall in love. It is not a fun time for Harry. There is gore; there is brutal prisoner torture; there is extremely extensive non-con. I found it very raw and unvarnished — not an easy read, but a very memorable and evocative one. And yet, despite the themes of darkness explored in this fic, it ends on a note of hope.

The Foul (part 1) / The Great (part 2) by @meles-merrivale (M, 24k, complete)

Setting: Time Travel Premise: If Harry gets thrown back in time a thousand years into the past, and does whatever it takes to stay alive until he can meet up with Voldemort again. Why I rec it: This is a fantastic depiction of the slow descent into madness following a disastrous time travel accident and what a thousand years of immortality does to one’s sanity. It��s also a great exploration of the time travel paradox and whether anyone has the power to change the past, or if pivotal historical events are, by their very nature, predetermined. By the time Harry encounters Voldemort again, he is a shell of the person he used to be, but gradually, he finds more of his original humanity and spark for life the more his relationship with Voldemort progresses.

#Tomarrymort Advanced Reads #tomarrymort #tomarry #harrymort #aethon recs #tomarry recs #tomarrymort recs #harrymort recs #hp fic recs #longfic recs #ao3 recs #fanfic recs #tom riddle #voldemort #harry potter

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voidpetrova · 8 months

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sleep with the enemy — jeremy gilbert x reader

☄. *. ⋆

content warnings and genre: swearing, alcohol consumption, sex, violence, enemies to lovers (again) — smut

˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚

synopsis: you couldn't deny how attracted you were to the infamous vampire hunter, but you had him wrapped around your finger as much as he had you around his.

✧.*

in the dimly lit study of the salvatore boarding house, the atmosphere crackled with tension. soft rays of moonlight filtered through the curtains, casting a ghostly glow upon the assembled group. damon salvatore, his signature smirk dancing on his lips, leaned casually against a bookshelf. stefan, his expression more serious, stood by the window, his gaze fixed on the outside world. the notorious vampire brothers, united by a common enemy, had convened to discuss their strategy.

damon's voice, dripping with sarcastic charm, broke the silence. “well, well, well. look who decided to grace us with her presence.” he tilted his head towards the entrance where you stood, a glimmer of defiance in your eyes. clad in dark attire that seemed to absorb the very essence of the shadows, you exuded an air of mysterious confidence that demanded attention.

you returned damon's gaze with an arched eyebrow. “oh, don't flatter yourself, salvatore. i'm just here to make sure your incompetence doesn't doom us all.”

jeremy gilbert, leaning against the wall, observed the exchange with an intrigued yet wary expression. his hunter's instincts were on high alert, his hand unconsciously drifting towards the wooden stake tucked in his belt. you and jeremy had clashed numerous times before, a dance of survival in a world where vampires and vampire hunters were perpetually at odds.

stefan's voice cut through the simmering tension. “enough of the bickering, you two. we have a common enemy, and katherine won't wait for us to sort out our differences.”

eamon pushed himself off the bookshelf, sauntering towards the center of the room. “right you are, baby brother. so, here's the plan. we gather information on katherine's latest whereabouts, pinpoint her weaknesses, and work together to take her down.”

you folded your arms, your gaze still locked on damon. “and what's in it for us? why should we risk our lives to help you?” stefan's voice remained steady. “because if katherine gets her hands on the cure for vampirism, she'll be unstoppable. and that means bad news for all of us.”

jeremy's eyes flickered between you and damon. “stefan's right. we might not like each other, but working together is our best chance at stopping her.”

a derisive snort escaped your lips. “i can't believe i'm agreeing with little gilbert. fine, we'll play along. but don't expect me to hold your hand through this.”

jeremy's grin widened. “oh, sweetheart, i wouldn't dream of it.”

as the meeting adjourned, you exchanged a lingering glare with him. the storm of emotions beneath the surface was palpable—hatred mingled with curiosity, distrust warring against a reluctant sense of partnership. little did you both know, the journey ahead would test not only your determination to take down katherine, but also the boundaries of your own hearts.

the next evening, in the dimly lit parlor of the salvatore boarding house, stefan stood at the head of a long table, his gaze focused on the assembled group. you and jeremy sat on opposite sides, your postures tense and guarded, radiating an air of defiance that seemed to challenge the very notion of cooperation.

stefan cleared his throat, his voice calm yet authoritative. “alright, listen up. we've got a lead on katherine's location, and we need to act fast. but we can't do this separately. damon and i will handle one part of the mission, while you two,” he gestured towards you and jeremy, “will work together on another.”

a collective tension gripped the room, as if everyone was holding their breath, waiting for the inevitable eruption of objections.

you leaned back in your chair, your eyes narrowing. “oh, i'm sorry, did i accidentally step into an alternate universe where i actually care what the gilbert boy thinks?”

jeremy shot you a defiant glare. “trust me, the feeling is entirely mutual. i'd rather be stuck in a room with vervain-soaked chains than work with a bloodsucker.”

stefan's patience remained unshaken. “enough. we don't have time for this. katherine is dangerous, and our only chance is to pool our resources. we need both of your skills to succeed.”

you crossed your arms, your lips curling into a sneer. “and what skills would those be, exactly? his knack for getting himself captured or my ability to actually get things done?”

jeremy's jaw tightened, his knuckles whitening as he clenched his fists. “at least i'm not a parasite that preys on innocent people.”

damon, who had been lounging against a nearby wall, chimed in with his characteristic smirk. “ah, young love. so heartwarming.”

stefan's voice held a note of finality. “this is not up for negotiation. you two are going to work together, whether you like it or not. we're out of options.”

a heavy silence settled in the room, the weight of impending collaboration hanging in the air. reluctantly, you and jeremy exchanged a glance, both recognizing the gravity of the situation. despite your shared disdain, the mission ahead was too critical to ignore.

with a resigned sigh, you leaned forward, your voice dripping with sarcasm. “fine. i'll try my best not to kill him—accidentally.”

jeremy rolled his eyes, his lips quirking into a reluctant half-smile. “yeah, i'll do my best not to, uh, aim for your heart.”

stefan's gaze softened, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. “good. let's focus on the mission. we'll meet back here in twenty-four hours to share what we've found.”

as the meeting adjourned, you and jeremy exchanged one last lingering look, a silent understanding passing between you. the enemies were reluctantly united, bound by the threads of necessity. and as the stakes grew higher, the blurred lines between hatred and something else began to reveal themselves in the shadows of your minds.

the following evening found you and jeremy in the dimly lit ambiance of the mystic grill, a popular gathering spot for both humans and supernatural beings alike. seated across from each other at a corner booth, tension hummed between you like an electric current, crackling with the weight of untold history.

you took a sip of your drink, casting a pointed look at jeremy. “i have to say, gilbert, your taste in venues hasn't improved much since the last time we were here.”

he smirked, swirling his drink thoughtfully. “can't say i agree, the last time we were here, you couldn't resist me at all.”

you chuckled softly, an edge of bitterness in your tone. “that was a long time ago. besides, i didn't see you complaining when you were telling me i was the best you've ever had.”

his lips twitched into a playful grin. “well, i've learned that a good dose of embarrassment keeps the heart rate up. important for a hunter, you know.”

as your laughter mingled with the surrounding chatter, a nostalgic air lingered beneath the surface of your interactions. despite the insults and snarky remarks, there was an undeniable chemistry that both of you had once succumbed to.

“you know, for a hunter, you've always been surprisingly skilled at evasion,” you mused, studying him through half-lidded eyes.

he leaned in, his voice lowered to a conspiratorial tone. “and you, for a vampire, have always managed to find new and inventive ways to get under my skin.”

the air between you shifted, a current of unresolved tension tangling with memories you both seemed keen on suppressing. but in the midst of your verbal sparring, there was a vulnerability that lingered—a shared history that couldn't be erased.

a wistful smile tugged at your lips. “remember that night we spent at the abandoned cabin outside town? a hunter and a vampire, sharing secrets under the stars.”

jeremy's gaze softened, a flicker of reminiscence crossing his eyes. “yeah, i remember. and i remember the sunrise, too.”

your tone grew sharper, masking the ache that had surfaced. “right, when i had to rush you back before your skin sizzled like bacon.”

he chuckled, though there was a hint of regret in his expression. “you're still as charming as ever.”

the silence that followed was heavy, the unspoken words swirling in the air like a storm waiting to break. you both knew the truth—the affair had been passionate, forbidden, and ultimately fleeting. but the ghosts of those stolen moments lingered, casting a shadow over your current dynamic.

with a brittle smile, you leaned back in your seat, pushing the memories away. “well, gilbert, let's focus on the task at hand. i'm sure we have a lot of insults to trade before this night is over.” jeremy's gaze held a mixture of resignation and longing. “of course, because that's what we're best at, right?”

as the evening wore on, you and Jeremy continued your verbal sparring, the familiar dance of insults and snarky remarks masking the deeper undercurrent of history and emotions that neither of you were quite ready to confront.

the culmination of your uneasy alliance took place at a lavish masquerade ball held at a grand mansion on the outskirts of mystic falls. the chandeliers bathed the ballroom in a warm, golden glow as elegantly dressed guests mingled beneath the masks that concealed their identities. among the masked figures, you and jeremy moved with calculated grace, each step laden with purpose.

in a corner of the ballroom, damon exchanged a knowing glance with you, a subtle nod indicating that katherine was near. jeremy leaned in, his voice low and laden with mockery. “ready to put on a show, bloodsucker?”

you shot him a withering look. “don't get too comfortable, gilbert. we're here to work, not to indulge your misplaced sense of revenge.”

jeremy's lips curved into a sly smile. “oh, don't worry. i'm just here to enjoy the company of a beautiful vampire while leading katherine on a wild goose chase.”

you rolled your eyes, but your own mask concealed a mischievous grin. “by all means, go ahead. it's not every day a vampire hunter gets to flirt with his worst nightmare.”

as the night wore on, the music swelled, and the tension in the air grew palpable. jeremy's gaze followed katherine, his charm turned on full force as he engaged her in a dance that seemed to double as a dangerous game.

not one to be outdone, you found yourself in conversation with damon, your playful banter taking on a seductive edge that wasn't entirely feigned. the mask of enmity seemed to fade as you allowed yourself to lean into the role.

later, as the ball continued to swirl around you, you slipped away onto a moonlit balcony, the cool night air a welcome contrast to the heated atmosphere inside. unbeknownst to you, jeremy followed, his steps soundless as he approached from behind.

he was only inches away from you as hjs fingertips grazed your collarbone, a shiver running down your spine as his breath tickled your ear. “damon seems to know your soft spots quite well. does he know you enjoy being touched here?”

you turned to face him, your gaze locking with his, an unspoken understanding passing between you. “doesn't he also know you're playing with fire, jeremy? leading katherine on, just to get back at me?”

his lips were dangerously close to yours, his voice a low murmur. “it's just strategy, remember? and you, enjoying damon's attention a bit too much, isn't that also a part of your plan?”

the world seemed to narrow to the two of you, the tensions of the past and the present converging in this intimate moment. a spark of something unspoken flickered in your eyes, a vulnerability you both were too proud to admit to.

with a brittle smile, you stepped back, creating distance between you. “we're here for a reason, little gilbert. let's not forget that.”

his gaze held a mix of frustration and longing. “right, because we wouldn't want to ruin our perfect track record of despising each other.”

as the masquerade ball continued inside, you and jeremy exchanged one last loaded look before retreating back into the throngs of guests. the dance of deception and attraction continued, the mask of enmity held firmly in place, concealing the truths that neither of you were ready to confront.

amid the revelry of the masquerade ball, tensions simmered just beneath the surface, ready to explode. as the night progressed, whispers spread through the crowd, drawing attention to a heated confrontation unfolding at the center of the ballroom.

jeremy stood, his expression a mix of defiance and unease, facing a room filled with curious gazes. damon's smirk danced on his lips, and you fixed your gaze on jeremy, your eyes narrowing as the truth slowly unraveled. stefan's voice cut through the hushed murmurs. “what's going on here?”

damon leaned back casually against a pillar, his tone dripping with amusement. "it seems our dear jeremy here had a little rendezvous with the lady of the hour, katherine," he paused. “was she a good fuck, gilbert?”

gasps rippled through the crowd, mingling with whispered accusations and incredulous glances.

your voice was sharp as a blade. “you've got to be kidding me, gilbert.”

jeremy's jaw clenched, his fists balling at his sides. “it was part of the plan, okay? she wasn't supposed to—”

stefan's patience was wearing thin. “you slept with the enemy to gain her trust? are you out of your mind?” as the crowd's murmurs grew louder, damon leaned in, a sinister smile playing on his lips. “seems like our little hunter's tactics might have backfired.”

you scoffed, your voice laced with scorn. “congratulations, gilbert. you managed to endanger the mission and prove just how foolish you can be.”

frustration radiated off jeremy in waves. “it was a risk we had to take. she was onto us, and this was the only way to keep her off our scent.”

as the arguments escalated, the tension reached a fever pitch. eventually, the crowd began to disperse, leaving only you and jeremy in the center of the now-empty ballroom. his gaze found yours, his voice low and resolute. “i didn't do it to hurt you.” you met his gaze, your expression unreadable. “well, congratulations, gilbert. thank you for your sympathy.”

he clenched his fists at his sides, his frustration palpable. “you think this was easy for me? i had to watch you flirt with damon all night. do you know how much that ate at me?”

you crossed your arms, your tone tinged with bitterness. “oh, poor jeremy. did i bruise your ego?”

his voice grew more desperate. “you know that's not what this is about. i had no intention of hurting you.”

you held his gaze, your eyes flashing with a mix of anger and something else. “and i had no intention of hurting you either. if i wanted to hurt you, i would've told you that I slept with damon, too.”

a flicker of shock crossed jremy's features, his anger flaring anew. the unspoken truths hung heavy in the air—the cat and mouse game that had defined your relationship was reaching a new level of intensity.

with a frustrated growl, jeremy turned on his heel and stormed out of the ballroom, leaving you standing there, the echoes of your words reverberating in the empty space. as the dust settled, the tangled web of emotions and motivations seemed to tighten around you all, the lines between enemies, allies, and something else entirely growing increasingly blurred.

in the days following the masquerade ball, the tension among the group remained thick, yet the mission to take down katherine couldn't wait. as preparations for the future confrontation began, you found yourself in your room at the salvatore boarding house, surrounded by the flickering light of candles. the soft glow of the flames danced upon your face as you meticulously got ready for the night ahead.

the scent of vanilla and musk filled the air as you sprayed a delicate mist of perfume onto your skin. with a wry smile playing on your lips, you assessed your reflection in the mirror, your eyes catching the dress and the necklace that lay on the vanity.

a knock on the door pulled you from your thoughts, and you turned to see jeremy standing in the doorway, his expression a mix of wariness and curiosity.

“what is it, gilbert?” you asked, your tone teasing.

he cleared his throat, stepping inside the room. “stefan said you needed help with something.”

with a subtle tilt of your head, you turned around, holding out the delicate necklace. “could you help me put this on? I'm afraid my fingers aren't as nimble as they used to be.”

jeremy's eyes flickered to the necklace, his adam's apple bobbing as he swallowed. he stepped closer, his fingers hesitating for a moment before he reached out to take the necklace from your hand. the weight of his gaze seemed to linger on your neck, the pulse point that had always captivated his attention.

as he carefully fastened the necklace around your neck, his fingers brushed against your skin, sending a shiver down your spine. his breath was warm against your ear as he whispered, “you smell nice.”

a sly smile curved your lips. “do i, now? would you like to take a closer whiff?”

before he could respond, you turned around, your fingers gently gripping his chin as you leaned in. your lips brushed his earlobe, and you whispered, “be careful, jeremy. remember why we're here tonight.”

his eyes widened, a mixture of surprise and longing dancing in his gaze. “where are you going, anyway?”

you pulled away, your lips curving into a knowing smile. “oh, just out for a little date. but don't worry, i'm sure you'll manage just fine without me.”

his brows furrowed in confusion. “a date? with who?”

you took a step back, your gaze locking with his, your tone dripping with satisfaction. “with damon, who else?”

the realization hit him like a freight train, and his jaw clenched as he took a step back, his expression a mixture of anger and hurt. “you're going on a date with damon?”

your smile remained unyielding. “yes, jeremy. it seems he's more attentive these days.”

with that, you turned and left the room, leaving jeremy standing there, his emotions in turmoil. the cat and mouse game had indeed escalated, the stakes higher than ever before. as the night unfolded, the tension between you and jeremy would continue to simmer, threatening to boil over into something neither of you could control.

the moon hung high in the sky as you returned to the salvatore boarding house, the echoes of the night's events lingering in your mind. the air was thick with tension as you stepped into the dimly lit foyer, your eyes locking onto jeremy's figure standing by the staircase. he turned to face you, his expression a mixture of curiosity and something that looked uncomfortably close to jealousy. “how was your date?”

you smiled, your lips curving into a knowing grin. “oh, it was absolutely magical. damon knows all the right moves, let me tell you.”

jeremy's jaw tightened, his voice laced with a feigned nonchalance. “really? do tell.��

your tone was light and teasing as you described an evening that was a far cry from the reality, weaving a tale of charm and flirtation, all centered around damon's supposed irresistible qualities.

“of course, I couldn't resist his eyes or his impeccable manners,” you continued, your eyes glinting with mischief. “and when he brushed his fingers against my thigh, i swear i felt a shiver down my spine."”

jeremy's fists clenched at his sides, his knuckles turning white as he struggled to keep his composure. “sounds like quite the night.”

you nodded, your smile still in place as you turned to head up the stairs. “yes, i thought so too. now, if you'll excuse me, i need to change into something more comfortable.”

with that, you began to unbutton your dress, your movements deliberately slow and deliberate, fully aware of jeremy's gaze on you. as the fabric pooled at your feet, you turned to face him, revealing your lingerie beneath.

jeremy's jaw tightened further, his voice strained. “what are you doing?”

you tilted your head to the side, your tone sweetly innocent. “oh, just getting ready for bed. would you like to help me unzip this?”

before he could respond, you turned and walked towards the bedroom, your hips swaying in a way that was almost taunting. you heard him exhale sharply, his frustration palpable.

as you entered the room, jeremy's voice followed you, his tone tinged with annoyance. “you're impossible.”

the air between you and jeremy was thick with unresolved tension as he lingered in the bedroom, having agreed to help you with your stockings. your legs were crossed, and you leaned against the dresser, your gaze meeting his in the mirror's reflection.

“i can't believe I'm doing this,” jeremy muttered under his breath as he tugged the first stocking up your leg.

you arched an eyebrow, your lips curling into a smug smile. “oh, come on, gilbert. it's just a pair of stockings. you're acting like i asked you to slay a dragon.”

he shot you a glare, his fingers working quickly but efficiently. “yeah, well, if i had to choose between dragons and you, i'd probably go with the dragons.”

you chuckled softly, your voice dripping with sarcasm. “you're such a charmer.”

the second stocking followed suit, and jeremy's movements were swift and surprisingly adept. his touch was calculated, devoid of any lingering traces of intimacy. as he straightened, you caught his gaze in the mirror, a challenge passing between you.

“there you go, all dolled up. happy now?” he muttered, his tone bordering on annoyance.

you turned to face him, your lips quirking into a playful smile. “oh, ecstatic. you're really quite skilled at this, jeremy. who knew you had such a hidden talent?”

he rolled his eyes, his voice laced with exasperation. “yeah, well, don't expect me to add 'stocking stylist' to my resume anytime soon.”

your laughter filled the room, the sound of it dancing between you. “you really know how to keep a girl's dreams alive, don't you?”

jeremy's lips twitched into a begrudging half-smile. “oh, i do my best.”

the banter between you was a welcome respite from the heavier moments that had preceded it. as the tension eased, you found yourselves slipping into a more familiar rhythm, snarky remarks masking the undercurrent of something that had been brewing beneath the surface for far too long.

with a playful wink, you moved closer, your tone teasing. “well, gilbert, i'll give you credit where it's due. you're definitely good at handling my—delicate situation.”

he shot you a sideways glance, his cheeks tinged with a faint blush. “just remember, it's a one-time deal. don't get any ideas.”

you chuckled softly, your fingers grazing his arm as you moved past him. "of course not. wouldn't want to mess with your reputation as a ruthless vampire hunter."

jeremy's voice held a hint of warmth as he muttered, “yeah, well, just remember, i can handle myself.”

you shot him a sly smile over your shoulder as you left the room. “oh, i have no doubt about that, gilbert.”

the exchange left a lingering sense of camaraderie in its wake, a glimpse of the intricate dance that defined your relationship. the tension remained, but somehow it felt more manageable, less suffocating. as the night wore on, you couldn't help but wonder if this was the beginning of something new, something that had the potential to change the rules of the game.

in the midst of preparations for the final showdown with katherine, another meeting had been called at the salvatore boarding house. as the group gathered, tension seemed to hang in the air, though a palpable shift had occurred since the masquerade ball. the air felt charged, as if the dynamic between you and jeremy had been irreversibly altered.

damon, as always, leaned against a pillar with his signature smirk, and you couldn't resist the urge to indulge in a bit of shameless flirting. “well, well, if it isn't the dashing salvatore brothers. i must say, the view is quite enjoyable from here.”

damon's eyes danced with amusement. “flattery will get you everywhere, my dear.”

jeremy's jaw tightened, though he seemed to be doing his best to keep his emotions in check. the meeting proceeded, but the undercurrent of tension remained, a silent reminder of the cat and mouse game that had become a hallmark of your interactions.

as the conversation continued, damon's gaze seemed to linger on you, his voice taking on a sultrier tone. “i must say, you smell divine tonight. new perfume, perhaps?”

you met his gaze with a smoldering look of your own. “just something i picked up recently. i find it has a certain— allure.” damon's lips curled into a knowing smile. “ah, yes. an allure that's hard to resist.”

jeremy's fingers tightened around the edge of the table, his knuckles turning white as he struggled to maintain his composure.

damon's gaze shifted to him, and a wicked smile played on his lips. “you know, gilbert, i've been meaning to ask. what's the name of that perfume?”

jeremy's gaze met damon's, a mix of anger and disbelief in his eyes. “it's none of your business.”

damon's grin only grew wider, his voice dripping with mischief. “ah, but i'm only curious. i believe you mentioned it was something with vanilla and musk?”

before jeremy could respond, damon closed the distance between you, his fingers brushing against the spot on your collarbone where jeremy had placed his kisses. a playful glint danced in his eyes as he leaned in to place a featherlight kiss on your skin.

jeremy's fists clenched at his sides, his voice tight with anger. “that's enough, damon.”

damon straightened, his smirk still in place. “ah, yes. jealousy really isn't a good look on you, is it?”

the room was thick with tension as you and jeremy exchanged a charged look. without a word, he stood abruptly, his eyes locked onto yours as he made his way to the door. you followed him with a purposeful stride, the unspoken understanding between you driving you forward.

as the door to the next room closed behind you, jeremy's anger seemed to finally boil over, and he pinned you against the wall, his lips crashing onto yours in a fierce, hungry kiss. the weight of the tension, the longing, the game you had both been playing—it all came crashing together in that moment.

your fingers tangled in his hair, your lips moving against his in a fierce dance of passion and desire. the intensity of it all seemed to consume you both, a release of pent-up emotions that had been building for far too long.

as you pulled away, breathless and flushed, you met jeremy's gaze, the lines of enmity and attraction blurred beyond recognition. and in that electrifying moment, you both knew that the cat and mouse game had transformed into something far more dangerous, far more real.

the room was dark, illuminated only by the soft light of the moon streaming through the window. jeremy lay on his bed, his head resting on his arm as he watched you walk closer. you felt the heat radiating off of him, and it sent a shiver of anticipation down your spine.

he reached out and grabbed your hand, pulling you to him until you were lying beside him. his lips met yours in a deep, passionate kiss, and you felt your heart flutter as his hands roamed your body.

“you're mine,” he murmured against your lips, and you smiled in agreement.

you moved your hands up his chest, exploring his body as he continued to kiss you. his touch was possessive, and you loved the feeling of him claiming you as his own. he ran his hands over your body, caressing and teasing, and you felt yourself growing more aroused with each passing moment.

jeremy rolled over so that he was on top of you, and you felt his hardness pressed against your thigh. his lips moved to your neck, and you felt his tongue trace a path of fire down to your chest. his hands moved to your hips, and he gently pushed you onto your back.

he continued to kiss you hungrily, his hands exploring every inch of your body. his kisses were heated and possessive, and you could feel the intensity building inside of you. you wanted him even more, and you begged him to take you.

“say it,” he growled, his voice low and demanding.

“i'm yours,” you whispered, and he smiled in satisfaction.

he positioned himself between your legs and you felt the heat of his arousal against your inner thigh. you cried out in pleasure as he entered you, and you wrapped your arms around him tightly as he began to move.

he moved inside of you in a steady rhythm, and you felt yourself growing closer and closer to the edge of pleasure. you clung to him, and you could feel his breath on your skin as he whispered words of love and admiration in your ear. he loved the way you screamed his name, knowing damon could hear everything. it only encouraged him to continue pounding into your cunt, filling you with aggressive thrusts.

finally, you both reached the pinnacle of pleasure, and you cried out his name as you reached orgasm. he collapsed beside you, his chest heaving with exertion, and you both lay there in silence for a few moments. he pulled you close to him, and you felt his arms wrap around you possessively.

“you're mine,” he said, and you smiled in agreement.

he had slept with the enemy, once again. only this time, he knew he wouldn't regret a thing.

#tvd #tvdu #the originals #legacies #jeremy gilbert #jeremy x reader #jeremy gilbert x you #jeremy gilbert x reader #jeremy gilbert smut #jeremy gilbert angst #jeremy gilbert fluff #jeremy gilbert x reader smut #jeremy gilbert x reader fluff #jeremy gilbert x reader angst

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averagewriter-inthedark · 26 days

Text

Me & The Devil P.2 🌘| Harry Potter Imagine

takes place during HBP & DH1

Part 1 here | HP Masterlist

Characters & Pairings: Black!Sister reader x HP characters (platonic), Severus Snape x reader (platonic/semi-romantic)

Content Warnings: death, violence, profanity, angst, slight cannon divergence, mentions of torture and blood, set during the book timeline of the 1990s | female!reader (she/her) | wc: 6k

Requested yes/no

Premise: A dark storm is brewing over Hogwarts. The return of Voldemort and his Death Eaters spark unease in the Golden Trio. For a certain member of the Noble House of Black, she takes on a new role of double agent with the partnership between her and a certain Hogwarts professor. Will she survive the ordeal and get her freedom when it's all over? The odds are slim when acting as a loyal servant and hunted by aurors.

Note: Snape is 37 in this like the books and reader is 31. Part 3 will be the final chapter to this miniseries but I have no idea when it will be posted. Hope y’all like this one! Also near the end the final scenes are inspired by Wanda in MOM so yeah that belongs to Marvel

——————-

Months went by. Waiting. Scheming. Y/n felt her mind deteriorate by the day. Between Bellatrix’s constant complaints of Draco’s failures and Narcissa’s moping, Y/n spent most of her time in the attic of Malfoy Manor. Hidden away to perfect her spells and create new ones. She even managed to successfully become an animagus.

A black crow.

How fitting.

At times Y/n found herself sitting in front of the window. Especially when it rained. The lightning in the distance, the crisp air filling the attic walls. Lost in her thoughts, Y/n would caress the silver jewelry laid on her left ring finger.

Once a month she’d receive a letter from Severus, unbeknownst to the others, detailing Draco’s attempts and all the times Snape’s had to cover for him. As part of their deal to keep quiet of the others' disloyalty and motives behind actions, Snape agreed to update her on Draco and keep the Order off Y/n’s trail. For Y/n’s side of the bargain, she agreed to deflect suspicion on him from their fellow Death Eaters. Specifically her sisters.

And what better way to do that then in holy matrimony.

“You want to get married?” she scoffed, placing her wine glass on the coaster. Having left with her sisters following the unbreakable vow, Y/n returned later that night after Severus sent an owl. Sitting in the same leather chair from before, “You humor me.”

“I can assure you I am everything but comical, Y/n,” he drawled, standing by the fireplace. The sound of wood crackling filled the room. “This is not an arrangement I suggest lightly.”

Seeing how serious he was, Y/n’s demeanor changed. “Wow,” her tone lowered, finger raising to tap her lips. Unable to read her mind since she was a gifted Occulmens like himself, Snape was left to wonder what Y/n was thinking. Truth be told the woman was more impressed than shocked by his proposal. “I think that’s the first time I’ve been rendered speechless, Severus.” Standing, Y/n grabbed her glass and approached the man. “You truly believe this would work? Proposing a marriage between us….” she trailed, glancing at the fire briefly, “is intriguing. Tell me more.”

Snape’s expression remained the same, “It is simply a matter of convenience.” No need to sugar coat it, “We want to keep our secrets hidden. So long as you can assure your sisters stay off my back…..I’ll make sure the Order stays off yours. We play the part of a happy married couple when operating business with the Dark Lord, and I will do everything in my power to get your freedom when this all ends.”

Y/n liked what she was hearing. The more she thought about it, the more engrossed she became. Marrying Snape wasn’t ideal--as the concept itself she did not care for--but Y/n could not deny the idea made her curious. Plus Severus was handsome, a talented wizard, and obviously, he knew her motives for following Voldemort. What her end goal was. She needed to keep him close.

“I think I’ll find playing the part of a smitten wife will be rather easy,” she rasped, stepping closer to Snape so their chests were nearly touching. Walking her fingertips up the length of his arm, Y/n leaned closer to Snape which ignited a sharp breath from the man. She smelled of expensive perfume. Their closeness allowed him to see how her eyes turned from their usual coldness to something more lustful. Almost sinister. His reaction made her smirk, “Confident you can manage the same….husband?”

Now, almost a year later, the two managed to successfully keep their union hidden from the Order. All while any suspicion the Death Eaters had of Snape seemed to disappear. Bellatrix, initially furious and doubtful of their ‘relationship’, soon began to trust him. Still, the witch grimaced each time the pair greeted the other with an affectionate kiss. Or when Y/n took claim to Snape’s lap during meetings. An action which surprised the man himself in the beginning.

Each letter Severus sent was met with one in return, however Y/n was careful to only send her owl in the late hours of the night. When her family was sound asleep. Signing the parchment with only her initials, but instead of B as the ending initial it was S. She’d never admit it aloud, but Y/n felt a sense of comfort with Severus. There was an overwhelming amount of hate in her heart, but the pinch of sanity left in her soul connected to him. Which is not a surprise. He is, of course, the only person who can relate to her.

Neither would call it love. Y/n possessed no love. And Snape lost his when Lily died. They had mutual respect and care for each other as their partnership grew. Finding the other’s presence calm despite the world around them going to shit.

The news of Draco’s success in connecting the two cabinets came from Bellatrix’s glee, the woman bursting into the attic with a loud, “It’s time, sister.” Reluctantly, Y/n trailed Bellatrix to Knockturn Alley, where they met several of their associates.

Dark clouds painted the sky. Thunder rumbling. It set the tone of the evening.

Y/n stayed stoic the entire journey. Hating every minute, yet doing nothing to escape. Where could she even go? The mark on her arm prevented her from doing so. Until Voldemort was defeated, the only way for her to stay alive was to continue the act of a loyal servant.

Draco was gone when the group breached the cabinet in a cloud of black smoke. The boy rushed to find Dumbledore and complete his task. He found the man on the observation deck of the Astronomy Tower. Unaware his longtime rival, Harry Potter, was below him, watching the scene play out.

The others arrived to witness Draco complete the task, however, in the end Snape was the one to administer the curse. And so the greatest wizard in history fell from the sky.

Y/n kept her eyes on Severus the entire time. Watching his reaction. When he went through with the unthinkable, Y/n wasted no time in rushing to his side. Cupping his face, she noticed the dissociative expression Snape wore. Mind processing what he had done. “Severus,” he didn’t respond, making her shake his shoulders, “look at me.” Finally he meets her eye and the woman matches his anxious demeanor. “We have to go. Now.”

Clutching his robe, the two push Draco in the direction of the Death Eaters. Bellatrix’s maniacal laughter rings as she shoots a spell into the sky to bring forth the Dark Lord’s symbol in the clouds. Not long after the tower was surrounded by members of the Order, ensuing a battle between the groups. Y/n tried to avoid dueling as much as possible. Not wanting to harm anyone, especially the kids in the school.

Cutting the corner after dodging a spell from her niece Nymphadora, Y/n spotted the wretched Fenrir Greyback attacking a man she didn’t recognize. Judging by the wild red hair he possessed, she assumed it was a Weasley. Greyback’s back was toward her, unaware she stood behind him. From the looks of it, the redhead was losing the fight.

Not sure what came over her at that moment, Y/n raised her wand and shouted, “Stupefy!” The werewolf was flung into the wall behind him, falling unconscious.

“Bill!” a voice screamed, Y/n turning to see a young woman running to where the Weasley laid. Bloodied and knocked out. Fluer dropped beside him, sobbing at the state of her fiance. She glanced up to see Y/n, immediately becoming frozen with fear while pleading with her to help. “Y-you--H-he’s been--.”

Cursing to herself, Y/n approached the two. “He wasn’t bit,” adjusting her dress skirt, she grabbed the cuffs of Bill’s jacket and gestured for Fluer to help. Together they moved him to a concealed area away from the battle. “He’s been scratched.” Having studied werewolves while in school, the woman was well educated on the subject. Muttering a healing spell, Y/n attempted to at least stop the bleeding, however, she knew the extent of his injuries were serious. “Nevertheless, the wounds are cursed. They’ll scar.”

Fluer watched her carefully, “W-why are you helping us?” Y/n gave no answer, instead casting a final healing spell before standing up to leave. In her peripheral vision, she noticed movement from Greyback, and sent a second stun his way to keep him unconscious. She always hated him, so it gave her great pleasure to pu thim down.

Truth be told Y/n didn’t know why she helped the injured Weasley. It would have best suited her to get the hell out of there and let whatever outcome happen. Whether that be Greyback killing the man or Bill successfully overpowering the werewolf. But instead, she cursed her associate. Saving the life of ‘the enemy’.

Several agonizing minutes passed before Y/n managed to escape the tower. At Snape’s order, she ran deep into the forest until she was far enough to apparate. Back at the manor she was immediately questioned by her sister.

“Is Draco okay,” Narcissa grabbed Y/n’s wrist to stop her from escaping to the attic. Eyes glossy with tears, “Did he--.”

“Your son is fine, Narcissa,” she roughly pulled away. “You have my husband to thank for that--he finished the job.” There was immediate relief from Narcissa, exhaling the breath she had been holding. Y/n went straight to the liquor cabinent, taking a glass and pouring a generous amount before downing it. She then refilled the glass, offering it to her sister without a word. Once Narcissa took it Y/n kept the bottle for herself, saying nothing more as she made her way to the attic.

It wasn’t long before the others arrived. Y/n heard Narcissa’s cry of relief upon seeing Draco. Bellatrix was busy scolding Greyback--something that brought a smile to her face. Other murmurs were made out, but hard to identify with all the noise. Moments later she heard the fast approaching sound of footsteps nearing her door. Jolting from her bed with her wand raised at whoever was about to breach it. Only when it was revealed to be Severus did Y/n lower her guard, rolling her eyes, “What have I told you about--.”

Snape slammed the door shut, muttering a silencing charm which caused Y/n to raise her brow. “We need to talk.” Her guarded expression returned, but Snape beat her before she could question him. “I know you stunned the werewolf to save Weasley.” All movement from the woment seized, frozen in shock.

“How do you know--.”

“I saw you with Miss. Delacour, Y/n,” Snape peers down at her with visible frustration. “Why would you risk such a thing? If you had been caught--.”

“But I wasn’t, Severus,” she interrupts, eyes flicking to the door in fear someone was listening, but then she remembered the spell he cast. “I was careful. You should know better than to underestimate me. And to answer your question….” she turned away from him, hands on her hips as she turned her focus to the woods beyond her window. “I don’t know what possessed me to do what I did--It just happened. Maybe it’s the fact the Weasley’s are distant family. Or because I fucking hate Greyback.” She throws her hands up in defeat, “Or I want the Order to have all its members to better their chances at winning this damn war. Maybe…” her hands fall back to her sides, “deep down there’s some humanity left in me.” The words were so low it was barely a whisper. Y/n shook her head, the speck of softness replaced with disinterest.

“Whatever it was,” turning back to him, Y/n narrows her eyes in warning. “It’s no longer our concern. Dumbledore is dead, you killed him.” footsteps echo against the wood as she approaches Snape, noticing his expression change at the mention of the headmaster. “He will be plotting his next move. We need to remain focused--I expect his attention will be on us more now given the circumstances.”

Snape knows she’s right. Killing Albus only shined a spotlight on him, and in turn on Y/n. He was now labeled public enemy #1 in the eyes of the Order. Voldemort himself will likely turn to Snape. They will have to up their game, continuing the act of a happy couple. Well happy as one can be in the middle of a war.

That summer was endless torture following the Headmaster’s death. Y/n not only had to deal with Voldemort growing stronger, but also the return of Lucius from Azkaban. It did bring the witch great joy to see the dark circles beneath his eyes and matted hair. One year in prison did a number on him.

Lucky for Lucius it was only one year. Had it been 15 like Y/n, he’d surely gone mad. Thankfully the two rarely saw each other. Not long after his release following Dumbledore’s death Y/n moved into Severus' home. Only returning to the mansion when necessary.

At every Death Eater meeting Y/n had to fight yawning with how bored she was, keeping her expression blank even when addressed by Voldermort from time to time. The man wasn’t blind. Well aware the youngest Black was not as forthcoming with her praises to him like Bellatrix. Never voicing her opinions, while also keeping any objections to herself like a smart person would do. He never fully trusted her. Even though she was married to one of his most trusted advisors, something in the back of his mind told Voldemort she’d be the first to turn on him. Without proof, Voldemort kept a close eye.

The meeting tonight was just like any other. Seated at the massive dining table in Malfoy Manor, Voldemort at the head while the Black’s and Malfoy’s flanked to the right. Y/n seated beside Draco, far from her sisters. Very telling of her attitude towards them.

Severus was the last to arrive, dark cloak tailing behind him. His entrance caught everyone’s attention, while his was on his colleague hanging in the air. Muggle studies professor Charity Burbage. The wounds on her body indicated she had been subjected to torture.

“Severus,” Voldemort greeted, “I was beginning to worry you had lost your way. Come. We’ve saved you a seat.” The headmaster took claim to the only free chair at the table, bidding a look to his wife, to which she slightly shook her head. Silently saying, “I had no part in this.”

Voldemort then said, “Do you bring news, I trust?”

“It will happen Saturday next, at nightfall.”

“I’ve heard differently, my Lord,” Yaxley interrupted at the other end of the table, then proceeds to say he believes Harry will be moved at the end of the month. The 30th of July. The day before his 17th birthday.

“This is a false trail,” Snape insists. “The auror office no longer plays any part in the protection of Harry Potter. “Those closest to him believe we have infiltrated the ministry.”

The Death Eater seated beside Y/n laughed, “Well, they got that right aren’t they.” Several at the table joined in the laughter. The youngest Black’s expression was tight, plastered with annoyance.

“What’s say you, Pius?” Voldemort addresses the man seated at the opposite head of the table.

Nagini curled herself next to the chair as he answered, “One hears many things, my Lord. Whether the truth is among them is not clear.” Voldemort chuckles.

“Spoken like a true politician. You will, I think, prove most useful, Pius.” The Death Eater appears pleased by the compliment. Voldemort turns back to Snape, “Where will he be taken, the boy?”

“To a safe house. Most likely the home of someone in the Order. I’m told it’s been given every manner of protection possible, once there it will be impractical to attack him.”

Suddenly the conversation is interrupted by Bellatrix. “My Lord, I’d like to volunteer myself for this task.” She leans against the table, voice dropping, “I want to kill the boy.”

“Of course you would,” Y/n thinks to herself, holding back the urge to roll her eyes. Frankly she found her sister to be stupid to ask such a thing. Considering Voldemort mentions his desire to kill Harry Potter everyday. And with the prophecy, there’s no way he’d allow anyone else the opportunity to do the deed.

In the back, Charity let out a haunting groan, causing Voldermort to shout, “Wormtail! Have I not spoken to you about keeping our guest’s quiet?”

“Yes, my Lord,” the man spoke with urgency. “Right away, my Lord.” As he scurried off, Voldemort returned his attention to Bellatrix.

“As inspiring as I find your bloodlust, Bellatrix,” the hope was clear in her eyes, disappearing with his next words. “I must be the one to kill Harry Potter.” With that she curled back into her seat, Y/n’s lips raising in a satisfied smirk.

“But,” he rises from his chair, “I face an unfortunate complication.” As much as Y/n wanted to tune out this conversation, the nature of it was hard to dismiss. Especiall when the man walked behind the chairs on her side of the table. Brushing past her sisters before ending beside Lucius. There was satisfaction seeing him visibly afraid of Voldemort. A smirk on her lips when he was to give up his wand, a wizard’s most prized possession.

Her expression shifted when Charity’s brought to the center of the table. Death Eaters laughing at her despair and cringing with disgust at her profession. Y/n moves her gaze to Severus, who’s emotionless to Charity’s pleas. Then when the woman’s killed and her body drops to the table, Y/n lifts her hand to grasp Draco’s wrist. Squeezing it in warning for him to control himself when she sees his distraught state in the corner of her eyes.

The action surprises the boy. Draco sucking in a breath and forcing himself to relax. Once he does, Y/n removes her touch and waits to be dismissed by Voldemort. As soon as the order is given she’s quick to leave the table, taking Snape’s outstretched hand where he apparates them back home.

“How do you plan--?” he doesn’t let her finish the question.

“I have it covered.” Moving to his study, he hears her footsteps behind him, Y/n slamming the door shut once they’ve entered. He looked annoyed, “This doesn’t concern you.”

“The hell it does!” she shouted, making him clench his jaw. Ever since the incident at the Astronomy tower the two had been on edge with each other. For one, the Order discovered their marriage causing Y/n to lose her shit. Now she was public enemy #2 in their eyes. Or 3 if you count Voldermort at the top. Her odds of the Order leaving her the fuck alone decreased immensly.

Second, Snape told her of his and Dumbledore’s arrangement. That the headmaster asked Snape to kill him. A secret Y/n had trouble wrapping her head around and prayed to a higher power no one, especially Bellatrix, found out about.

Crossing over to him where he stood at his desk, Y/n caught his wrist to make him look at her. “In case you have forgotten, dear husband, we are playing both sides right now. You say you want to protect Harry Potter…just how do you plan to do that during an ambush you helped orchestrate? What the hell are we supposed to do if Harry Potter dies at his hands Saturday next?” Y/n squeezed his wrist tighter, “I’m putting all my trust into Severus Snape. You promised me my freedom when this was all over.”

“I haven’t forgotten, Y/n,” he removes himself from her grip, “You say you trust me. Do so, and you won’t be let down.”

Y/n didn’t know where it all went wrong. One moment she was flying in the sky, the next she’s being rammed into by Bill Weasley’s Thestral. Pain erupted in her chest, likely from a broken rib and caught herself on the creature's satchel. Her hand is then grabbed by the imposter Harry seated behind Bill, keeping Y/n steady to prevent falling to her death. Using her talent of legitimins, Y/n identifies the imposter as Bill’s fiance Fluer.

“You’re not Harry Potter,” she whispers, causing Harry (Fluer) to widen her eyes. The accusation was confirmed when Fluer’s voice responded, “How did you know?” Before Y/n could answer, however, the world around her became black. Having been stunned by Bill who realized what was happening behind him.

Acting fast, Fluer reached with her other hand to further grasp Y/n’s now limp body onto the Thestral.

“What are you doing?” Bill shouted over the chaos, “She’s one of them!”

“And she saved your life in the Astronomy tower, William!” Fluer screamed back. Using all her might, she hauled Y/n over the bottom half of the creature. Gripping the material of her robes and dress while ducking at the incoming curses around them.

When they finally made it to the Burrow, the shaky landing caused Fluer to lose her hold. Y/n fell to the ground, still unconscious. Bruises were sure to form on her body. Bill leaped off the Thestral, helped Fluer off and rushed to Y/n. After confirming she was alive by pressing his fingers to her pulse, the oldest Weasley took the death eater into his arms and followed Fluer into the house. But not before telling Fluer to take her wand which had been discarded into a ditch.

“Wait here,” he said, placing Y/n in the care of Fluer by setting her on a bench outside the door, Bill entered to find the others gathered around an injured George. After the shock wore off of his brother’s state, Bill announced the death of Mad-eye and departure of Mundungus. Deepening the already intense mood.

“There’s something else,” he hesitated, eyes flickering to find everyone staring at him with unease. They watched Bill exit the house, only to return a second later dragging the last person they ever expected. Gasps rang out, wands drawn in Y/n’s direction. The witch barely conscious but fighting against Bill’s hold. Eventually succumbing to sleep once again due to the pounding in her head.

With the help of Remus, the two propped Y/n in a chair, casting a spell to bind her hands and legs. “Where’s her wand?” Remus urgently looked around, relieved to see the object in Fluer’s possession. He turned to Bill, “What the hell happened?”

As the oldest Weasley explained, Molly approached the woman, assessing her carefully. Y/n had dirt and grime in her hair. A small cut to her temple. Likely from a rock when she fell from the Threstral. Her breathing was shaky, pained groans escaping her mouth which Molly assumed was from trauma to her chest. Although the others were against it, Molly began performing healing spells on Y/n, “Had it not been for her my son would be dead! I do not care what side she is on--I shall offer the same courtesy.”

The group was alerted to Y/n’s consciousness twenty minutes later when she groaned. Shifting in the chair, her eyelids fluttered briefly before opening to bright lights. Moaning, Y/n straightened up aware of the audience in front of her, however she did not appear concerned. Even with several wands pointing at her. “Hmmmph,” she blinks a few times, settling her gaze on Remus, “what an unpleasant situation we have here. I hoped to be dead before experiencing this.”

It pained Remus to hear her words. Thinking back to that little girl he’d met on the corner of Diagon Alley with James, perched on Sirius’ hip. That little girl was gone. In her place was a woman with the Devil on her shoulder. “We don’t want to hurt you, Y/n.”

Tilting her head as though she found his statement funny, she replies “Is that supposed to make me feel at ease?” rolling her eyes she adds, “Surely you could’ve come up with something better.”

Remus sighed, realizing it was about to be a long night. “We’re willing to negotiate terms if you provide us with information. A lesser sentence if you will,” he chose his next words carefully, seeing her demenor shift, “so long as you are upfront and answer all of our questions with honesty.” Y/n’s face tightened, no longer humored. Remus felt his stomach lurch, not breaking the intense eye contact she set with him.

“You threaten me--.”

“It’s not a threat--,” he insists but Y/n continues.

“With a cell in Azkaban and expect me to comply? By being a snitch?” she shakes her head, eyes full of fury. “Go to hell, Remus Lupin.”

“It doesn’t have to be this way.”

“Oh?” She grumbles with a glare, “and how else do you suggest it be? I’m not stupid--a tad mad if we want to get technical, but you all have yourselves to blame for that.” Y/n was referring to the Order not taking her in during the First Wizarding War. Sirius warned them of his family and the Death Eaters recruiting her at a young age. Yet no attempt to protect Y/n was initiated.

The werewolf’s face fell, “Had we known--.”

“Known what?!” She jumped forward in her chair as the dam of pent up resentment and anger broke, making several flinch at the sudden movement. A few wands pointed up but she paid them no mind. “That I’d become a Death Eater against my will? That I’d be forced to use the Cruciatus Curse on the Longbottoms or face my sister’s wrath?” She spat with ferocity. Pupils nearly pitch black it made her appear demonic. “You knew what my family was like! Sirius knew--It’s why he left! And you did nothing to save me.” Leaning back in the chair, Y/n finished with, “Go ahead and kill me. I’m not telling you shit.”

Remus runs a hand through his hair, his patience running thin and stress levels rising. “Y/n, I’m trying to help you here. We’re giving you the opportunity to avoid a lifetime in jail if you help us--help us end this war.” When his efforts are exhausted Remus gestures to the man behind him, “Kingsley has Veritaserum and we will use it if necessary.” Now this has her smirking, chin raising in challenge.

“Go ahead,” her voice lowers an octave, sending chills along his arms, “I welcome you to.” Weary of her acceptance, the adult members of the Order all exchange looks before Kingsley approaches. Y/n tilts her head back, watching Kingsley unscrew the vial and pour the tiny amount of liquid onto her tongue. Once it’s entered her stream, the woman cracks her neck and returns her attention to Remus.

He clasped his hands in his lap, leaning in his chair. “How’d you know about tonight?”

Y/n pretends to think, “I think I saw an advertisement in the Daily Prophet. Yeah,” she nods her head, acting serious. “That was it.”

Remus’s own head falls to his chest, the others visibly confused. The potion was to make her tell the truth. Pretty much against her will. Thinking it may have not settled in yet, Remus asks another question. “Who told him we were moving Harry?”

Deciding to play along, Y/n shrugs her shoulders, “Yaxley.” Lie. She held back a chuckle at his confused reaction.

“How did he know?”

“Overheard it.” Lie.

“Where?”

“Diagon Alley I assume.” Lie.

“From who?”

“I don’t know.” Lie.

“But he’s the one who told Voldemort.” Y/n rolled her eyes at that, gesturing to her binded hands.

“Obviously since we’re sitting in this predicament.” She sees the frustration on Remus, as well as the others. Yet, the witch couldn’t help but feel entertained. “Anything else?”

“What’s your relationship to Severus Snape?”

“He’s my husband,” She didn’t miss the way the Order reacted to the news. Upset but not surprised. No point in lying. They already knew about their marriage from what Snape told her. The truth of why, however, was still a secret.

“Why did he kill Dumbledore?” Harry stepped forward, drawing her attention to him. Anger was written all over his face. Filled with absolute hatred. Something Y/n had expected when her husband murdered the man he looked up to.

“You were there, right?” she asked, head tilting with curiosity. “Snape mentioned you’d been below the observatory deck.” Tsking, Y/n surveyed him. She was getting under his skin. “Why do you think he did it?”

“I think he did it to save himself. He was a coward,” Harry saw the way her face tightened. Taking offense to his words. A mere speck of what someone could label as affection or respect to her spouse.

“Severus Snape is many things,” she sounded sinister, anger seeping off every word. “But a coward is not one of them.”

“Fat lot of good coming from you.” Harry antagonized her. “You hightailed it out of the ministry when Sirius died. He was your own cousin.”

“My cousin who left me a sitting duck for the wolves,” Y/n reminded the boy, temper rising. An indicator with how her voice was strained. “Let’s not forget you all thought he was responsible for betraying your parents. Didn’t even hesitate to believe he was guilty.” That cut them all deep. “And I adored Sirius at one point in life. Much like you, Harry Potter,” she let out a deep sigh, attempting to calm herself, “look at where it got me.” Exhaustion was beginning to take over the witch. Her body ached and there was a pounding in her head. Molly’s healing spells worked to patch any internal injuries Y/n had, but she still was drained from the whole ordeal.

They were getting off track. Having had enough of the tension, Remus butted in, “Answer the question, Y/n. Why did Snape kill Dumbledore?”

“I don’t know,” she simply stated. Lie. “He didn’t say. Although…I can only assume it was to spare my poor nephew.” Another shrug, “And survive the unbreakable vow. Which you already know of.”

Harry shook his head, “I don’t believe you.” His gut was telling him there was more to the story.

“Harry, she took the Veritaserum,” Hermoine pointed out gently, missing the flicker of amusement from Y/n. “She’s telling the truth.”

“Hermoine’s right, Harry,” Ron agreed, moving beside his friend. “There’s no way she could be lying.”

“How much did you give her, Kingsley?” Arthur questioned, also suspicious of Y/n’s answers. Kingsley held up the vial. More than half was consumed.

“Enough.”

“Something’s off,” he murmured, rubbing his chin. A bickering match ensued between members of the Order. Harry, Arthur, and even Y/n’s niece, Tonks, had difficulty believing Y/n told the truth. The majority, however, voiced opposition.

“Veritaserum is a very potent and strong potion, Harry,” Remus stood from his chair, but before he could say anything else, Y/n’s voice took over.

“Which you just wasted.”

Silence consumes the room. Processing what she said. That’s not possible.

Heads turning to the witch, Y/n starts to chuckle in delight. A sight unnerving to the Order as it becomes more deranged. Harry looked to his friends for an answer, but they were just as perplexed as him. Y/n’s voice turns taunting, “Oh my, you lot really are daft at times. Have you forgotten? Or did you believe it to be a rumor?” Her grin is wicked, finding the scene entertaining much to their dismay. “I’m a skilled Occulmens.”

It was as though the dementors arrived with how cold the air became. Everyone falters, stilling at the revelation. It could only mean one thing:

Everything Y/n said potentially was a lie.

The Death Eater tsked, “What do you think I did with all that time I had rotting in the middle of the ocean?” she laughs again, more menacingly. “Your little potion is useless! My mind is more protected than Azkaban. For all you know I fabricated everything I just told you.” Her taunting laugh continues, shredding the last ounce of patience the Order had for her.

Remus kneeled in front of her chair and smacked the table, causing everyone besides Y/n to flinch. “Enough of these games! I have tried to give you the benefit of the doubt knowing you’d been forced into this life, but you have proven to be not so different from your associates.” Now that was a nail to the coffin. Any and all of Remus’s hope for Y/n having some level of good in her gone. “This is your final warning--or we will throw you in Azkaban for the rest of your life for good!”

Never straying her stare, the Death Eater murmered cooly, “You have no idea how reasonable I’ve been.” This time it was Remus’s turn to scoff.

“Holding children hostage at the Ministry, attacking Hogwarts, marrying Snape, and sending assassins after the officials who locked you up,” He lists off, surprising the Order with the last detail. They had heard rumors of Azkaban guards and Ministry officials killed in the last few months, but assumed it was Bellatrix. “I don’t see how that’s being reasonable.”

Y/n gave a sound that was a mix of a chuckle and scoff, leaning forward in her chair. “Sending those assassins after them instead of myself was mercy.” A chill rose, Harry’s intuition telling him something was about to happen. “And despite your hypocrises and insults I have warned you time and time again to simply get out of my way.” Remus saw her hands fidget, tightening his grip on his wand.

“You’ve exhausted my patience,” Her voice lowered once more, almost to a whisper as her bottom lip quivered. “But I do hope you understand…that even now--with what’s about to happen…..” lips curled into a deathly smirk. “This is me being…reasonable.”

Faster than the speed of light, Y/n casts a non-verble, wandless spell that mimics a gust a powerful wind, ripping the binds off her hands and ankles. Remus flies onto his back, the lights flicker and burst. The windows and glass shatter. Papers fly. Hermoine screams, echoing amongst the shouts as Ron pulls her into his arms. Molly leaning over an injured George to protect him from shards.

Fluer gasps at the feeling of Y/n’s wand in her hand ripped from her. The death eater had snapped her fingers in the chaos with a non-verbal Accio.

With her wand now in her possession, Y/n unleashes another bout of wind, crippling the Order from attacking her. Once satisfied she makes her escape. Black smoke fills the room before flying out the window and into the night sky. The storm inside the burrow seizing.

“What the bloody hell was that?” Ron coughs, catching his breath.

“That,” Kingsley stands up straight, sore from colliding with the wall which knocked him down. “Was the closest thing to experiencing the Devil on Earth.”

Tags: @unloved-and-outspoken

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theggning · 1 year

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Luis as Don Quixote

Luis' affection for/continuing references to Don Quixote are one of my favorite little details in RE4make. We find several files that mention it was his favorite book as a child, and of course he brings it up in chapter 11, casting himself as Don Quixote (the "dashing" hero), Leon as Sancho Panza (the goofy sidekick), and Ashley as Dulcinea (the beautiful, kidnapped princess.)

For the uninitiated, Don Quixote is an early 17th century Spanish novel by Miguel de Cervantes about a middle aged nobleman whose obsession with books leads him to become a "knight," setting out to live the romantic ideals of chivalry and make the world a better place. However, out of delusion or idealism bordering on delusion, he makes foolish mistakes and causes a lot of trouble (for instance, the famous "tilting at windmills" incident.) The novel is a parody of the chivalric stories popular at the time, and interpretations over the years vary on whether Don Quixote is a comedic or a tragic figure, whether we are meant to feel pity for him or view him as a fool and a menace to society.

RE4make shows us that a young Luis was inspired to become a scientist by the plaga infection and death of his grandfather, and set out on his career in the outside world with good intentions. But just like Don Quixote, his obsession and idealism led him to making mistakes, both in his work for Umbrella and his affiliation with Los Illuminados. Though it's implied Luis kept some kind of moral compass intact (he quit Umbrella even before everything went to hell, and he was working to undermine and counter Saddler for some time,) he feels responsible for the collateral damage wrought by his work and blames himself for not seeing his mistakes before it was too late to prevent them.

I just find the whole thing really poignant. Luis holds lifelong enthusiasm for a story about a man who wants to make the world a better place, but who screws up over and over again. Regardless, Don Quixote keeps trying, hoping he'll be able to live up to the hero he's always wanted to be. The "Man of La Mancha" Quixote himself never succeeds at this, eventually returning to his ordinary life and regretful of the harm he has caused.

Luis, on the other hand, really does become a hero. No matter his past actions and no matter how sketchy he acts, by the time he announces his partnership with Leon, Luis is fully committed to a cause greater than saving his own skin. He makes an ACTIVE CHOICE to help Leon and Ashley when it is completely at odds with his own survival, and when he has the means of his own rescue in hand. If he left with Ada as soon as he recovered the Amber, Luis would have lived longer-- but more than likely fallen right back into his same old mistakes and handed over a bioweapon to Wesker. Choosing to help Leon and Ashley seals his fate, but it unquestionably saves both of their lives-- not to mention leads to the chain of events that end Saddler and Los Illuminados, potentially saving the world.

Unlike Don Quixote, Luis does manage to become a hero in the end. And unlike the original game, RE4make acknowledges and remembers it long after he's already gone. Dr. Luis Serra Navarro really was a fine knight, and he really did save the day.

#resident evil #re4make #re4make spoilers #resident evil meta #luis serra #luis sera #luis serra navarro #did i get all his tags this time HOPE SO anyway #little preview before i write the luis serra manifesto coming up here soon #english major tag #resident evil 4 #resident evil 4 remake

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fjorests-of-wildemount · 3 months

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Suppose against impossible odds you avert an apocalypse and survive. How do you even begin to face the insurmountable task of deciding what to do with your life that, for nearly 30 years, was love and partnership and companionship with your best friend and soul mate, and for another seven was searching for justice for his death? You truly haven't even begun to heal. You have new friends, a new family, maybe you're even falling in love again. You have so many choices. Wouldn't it just be so much easier to not have to decide?

#orym of the air ashari #critical role #bells hells

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theidiotwhowritesthings · 11 months

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DARKNESS, MY OLD FRIEND

Dark!Joel Miller x Reader

Warning: violence, non descriptive death of a faceless attacker, beginnings of attempted sexual assault (not by Joel), planned manipulation, significant age difference, power imbalance, i have no specific timeline in mind but Ellie is not involved in this or even mentioned so maybe pre-TLOU

Word Count: 721

Summary: A chance encounter leads to a fated partnership. You were destined to be by Joel's side regardless of your opinion on the matter.

[a/n: this is a 2130 celebration request from someone who wanted to stay anonymous but apparently you can't send pictures when you send an anon message?? I didn't know that, but anyways this is for you non-anon!anon. Side note, I told myself I would allow myself one cheating drabble that can exceed 500 words as long as it stays under 1000 and here it is. 12 hours into the weekend and I'm already using my cheat pass lolol]

The meeting had been by pure chance alone. You were trying to find shelter from a storm and wandered into the same abandoned gas station that Joel had chosen that night. The initial plan to form, as he held you at the end of his rifle, was to send you packing. He wasn’t quite sure how someone as pretty and soft as you had survived this long out in the wilderness anyways. Especially alone as you were. However, you opened your mouth and won him over. You were charming and funny. Witty enough to keep him intrigued, and Joel found himself hypnotized by your smile. He didn’t think people could smile like that anymore. Not in this world.

So, Joel let you stay. There was enough room in the hollowed out building and as the night wore on he likened you to light itself. Warm, energizing, and addicting. Everything about you seemed to brighten his heavy mind, and these days that was quite the feat. When morning came, when the storm passed leaving a foggy cloud of damp, warm air, you thanked him. Joel’s own words had caught him off guard, but he found himself offering you company. Safety in numbers, after all. He was even more surprised when you said no. You preferred to be on your own. You thanked him once more, said good-bye, and gave him one last blinding smile before turning on your heel and disappearing into the forest.

The second you were gone, the second you took that light with you, Joel’s feet were moving. He followed. Far enough away to not be seen, but close enough to watch and wait. The world ending had changed Joel. Losing Sarah had changed Joel. The years since had only worsened and twisted that change further and further. He didn’t recognize the darkness in his mind, but it felt like an old friend these days.

Saying no to him had been incredibly stupid of you. Joel didn’t offer his experience and skill to many. You should’ve felt honored. He acquitted that to your age. You were young. Not even thirty yet. Still so much to learn. It wasn’t your fault that you didn’t realize he wanted to be the one to teach you⏤ to protect you.

As the day went on, Joel saw you glance around nervously every once in a while. Good. The fact that you could feel his gaze on you made him applaud your senses. They needed to be fine tuned considering you had yet to actually spot him, but the raw skills were still impressive.

The sound of running steps filled the air and if Joel wasn’t convinced that his actions were the right path then fate was sanctioning his every thought. Three men, raiders, were tearing through the trees right for you. Joel watched as they fell upon you. They underestimated you, just as he had, and their arrogance cost them. You managed to shoot the first two in the chests, but the third tackled you to the ground with menace in his eyes. Joel could see the intent from where he stood and he locked his jaw. He didn’t like watching another man touch what he already considered his own, but a lesson needed to be taught.

You screamed, the sound piercing, as the man continued to rough handle you. Even with the odds against you, you fought and fought. The raider clamped his hand over your throat and when his hand began to tug at your clothes, Joel chose that moment to step in. He stalked over calm and deadly. Those raiders were not the most dangerous creature this forest held⏤ he was. Joel swung his rifle around and fired a single shot clean through the man’s head.

The raider slumped on top of you and Joel watched as you scrambled to try and shove the body off. He swung his rifle back around and jogged over. Joel ripped the body off of yours and you stared up at him with wide eyes as your chest heaved for air. Your pretty features were splattered with your attackers’ blood and Joel offered himself once more. An outstretched hand and comforting word. This time not as a stranger, but as your savior. With time, you’d learn not to say no to him.

#tlou #tlou fanfiction #the last of us #joel miller #joel miller x you #joel miller x reader #dark!joel miller #dark joel miller #2130 celebration!

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wallacepolsom · 2 years

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Wallace Polsom, Odd Partnerships for Survival XII (2022), paper collage, 23.4 x 31.3 cm.

#wallace polsom #odd partnerships for survival #paper collage #collage #collage art #art #artists on tumblr #analog collage #contemporary art #handmade collage #handcut collage #21st century #wallacepolsom2022 #surreal #surrealism #art history #thomas eakins

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loudblonde · 4 months

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Simon "Ghost" Riley x Male!Reader Mafia AU (chapter 19)

18+ Minor DNI

Summery: As (Y/N) and Simon get closer and closer, their relationship shifts to a new directon, a different one. No longer just some low life bodyguard and the son of the boss, but now a partnership build on mutual trust and protection. Lines are blurred and new alliances are forged even stronger.

Warnings(contains spoilers, but that is obvious): (Y/N) has some complicated feelings that if you have been a victim of emotional abuse and emotional neglect may be a bit hard to read about. Essentially (Y/N) realises he is capable of love and deserving of happiness

AN: I meant to have this out wayyyyyyyy earlier, as in last week but my engagement of 3 years ended, so sorry, I have just been too disraught, sad and pissed off to even consider writing this finished, somehow (Y/N) and Simon being so happy together was painful. I guess the fanfiction writer curse strikes again....

Word count: 3.2K

(Y/N) stared down at the sleeping Simon. He looked peaceful… no, he looked young and peaceful. No nightmares plagued his mind behind the eyelids, no anxiety was freezing his core and no doubt was tending the already huge garden of doubt flowers that grew in his mind.

(Y/N) smiled as he ran a hand through Simon’s hair, for once with care instead of possession. He had started to like Simon, no, he hadn’t lied to Simon earlier in the week. He loved him. He… loved… him. The thought was foreign to (Y/N), he didn’t know how that had happened or how Simon had wormed his way into his heart, yet here he was, warming up something that (Y/N) had forgotten he had. He felt odd. He was simultaneously on a cloud and in the deepest pits of hell, the last few weeks had been like descending into hell, every single layer worse than the other.

He felt a lot like Dante, forced to descend into hell only to learn how to love and have compassion. The thought left a grim taste in his mouth as he realised he may eventually feel bad for his actions. (Y/N) had never felt like more than a pawn to anyone, to his family, to the agency and to Price. But with Simon… Simon had never treated him like anything but someone better than him, superior then him, all the while (Y/N) knew from day one that (Y/N) could never be half the man Simon was. He saw him for what he was, a once beautiful angel that had survived abuse and torture at the hands of his parents, only to endure it at the hands of John Price.

Simon was beyond broken, an angel whose wings had been clipped and stolen, yet he had never fallen, he had never once let it truly break him. (Y/N) had seen the light and like his father he had sought to squash the light, yet no matter how much he tried, the light was so bright that (Y/N) had been overwhelmed and Simon’s kindness was so heartbreakingly pure despite everything that (Y/N) had changed positively. (Y/N) was somehow a better man for knowing Simon and Simon had stopped hiding behind Ghost as an attempt at hiding who he was.

He was growing his wings back and Simon was more confident in himself than ever and (Y/N) loved every single second of it. He closed his eyes and let sleep take him.

(Y/N) woke when the alarm blared into his ear. Both men groaned as they separated for the morning and got up. As they both got dressed (Y/N) caught Simon glancing at him, (Y/N) headed over and wrapped his arms around Simon from behind, he kissed the spine between his shoulders. “Hmmm, morning luv.” Simon’s voice rumbled. “You are not usually this clingy.” He leaned back against (Y/N).

“I just realised how much I care and how much I love you.” (Y/N) whispered into his back before kissing his back again.

Simon chuckled. “Well, sir, I am always here for you,” Simon said.

(Y/N) chuckled. “Thank you, Si.” He said softly before pulling away with a sigh. “What is on the agenda today?”

“Meeting with the Shadow Unit, as usual,” Simon said as he placed his knives in their usual places. “Then you have dinner with the police chief, one of your father's allies has lent out his restaurant for this, I hope you like Italian food.”

(Y/N) chuckled. “I don’t mind it, the food isn’t all that bad.” He hid his own knives as well before checking up on his drawing kit. He checked the sharpness. Simon’s eyes were on him through the whole process. When he was done he wrapped it again and walked over to Simon. They shared a quick kiss before walking out.

After breakfast and the daily first meeting with various people who (Y/N) made very little attempt to even remember who was, he headed to lunch with the police chief.

(Y/N) sat down and looked at the smug face. “My officer says you are working close,” Shepherd said.

“Of course, we appreciate the shadow unit more than we could ever express.” (Y/N) said as he leaned back in the chair. The waiter poured him a glass of red wine. “Besides, Graves, your lapdog, is quite useful in many ways.” He said.

“He wouldn’t appreciate you calling him that,” Shepherd said with a chuckle.

(Y/N) shrugged as he picked up the glass of wine. “Yet, it is true.”

“Touché, Mister Price.” Shepherd said. “Graves reported his men started calling you The Iron Fist.” He said.

(Y/N) sipped the dry wine before sitting it down. “Iron fist?”

“Yes, apparently you are quite strict.” He said.

“I am no drill sergeant.” (Y/N) chuckled. “But they are learning how to not crack under torture.”

“By… torturing them,” Shepherd said.

“Nothing a child can’t go through.” (Y/N) said nonchalantly. As though pain and suffering didn't matter to him and Shephard knew, in his heart, that for (Y/N) it probably didn't matter, as long as a soldier was made out of the child.

Shepherd looked genuinely taken back and a bit disgusted at that. “You put children through that?”

“It was what my mother put me through, they won’t ever experience anything worse, I promise.” (Y/N) said.

He looked distrustful of that. “Are you suggesting that my men will be in danger of getting kidnapped and tortured?”

“It is always a possibility, even without them working for us, what I bring to the family is fresh eyes and fresh blood. I have allies and contacts for future work that would leave many quaking in their boots but it will earn you a good bonus.” (Y/N) said with a smile.

“A good bonus?” The police chief asked.

(Y/N) took a piece of paper out of his pocket and wrote 20 000$ on it before turning it over and sliding it over to him. Shepherd took it and looked at it. His eyes widened as he looked at (Y/N). “Bi-annually, on top of what we already give you, that is just a taste too. I am expanding the business in due time, though not without regulating what happens. If your men think of me as The Iron Fist now they will be in for a rude awakening when I take over and actually handle more business than our lovely police force.”

“And what about Grave’s, your police lap dog? What will happen to him?” Shepherd asked as the food was placed down in front of them. Perhaps (Y/N)'s cruelty wasn't so outrageous if it got results like this…

“He will keep being a lapdog. If I say jump I don’t even want him to ask how high, he should jump as high as possible.” (Y/N) took a bite of food and swallowed it before speaking again. “I will keep him close but keep in mind that I am happily taken, I won’t fuck his brains out.”

Shepherd cleared his throat. “Do you use your body often for sexual favours to clients?” (Y/N) chuckled at that.

“Not anymore, no.” (Y/N) said. “I don’t tend to have open relationships. I am a tad bit… possessive.” He heard Simon shuffle behind him.

“You must make whoever it is very happy,” Shepherd said.

(Y/N) smiled. “Yes, I think so too.” (Y/N) said with a softness Shepherd hadn’t heard from him.

“And you won’t tell me who?” Shepherd asked, mostly as a joke.

(Y/N) chuckled and shook his head. “No, we like to keep things private.”

Shepherd chuckled at that. “Alright, alright. I will let you keep your secrets.”

The rest of the lunch was decent, they had spent it talking about some minor things. No business after that.

When lunch was over Simon and (Y/N) headed back to the warehouse being used as a training facility. They entered to see Graves running men through the usual drills. (Y/N) gave a hum.

He walked over to them and looked at everyone going through the different drills. “Your men show promise.”

“Thank you, sir.” Graves smiled at the praise. He looked at him. “How did your lunch go?”

“It went well. Has Gaz arrived yet?” (Y/N) asked.

“Ah, yes. He is in your office, Sir.” Graves said.

“Next time lead with that. Ghost, keep an eye on their training.” (Y/N) said before walking upstairs. He entered his office and looked at Gaz with a smile. Both men shared a hug. (Y/N) sat down behind his desk and Gaz sat down in front of it. “So, what’s new?”

Gaz leaned back. “Well, your father is stressed, but still working, we keep suggesting he takes a break or give you more responsibility.”

“He is getting old.” (Y/N) said. “I am here to help in any way he needs or wants.”

“Those two are not the same?” Gaz asked.

(Y/N) chuckled. “We both know they aren’t, Gaz.”

“Oh, this is business?” Gaz chuckled.

(Y/N) smiled and shook his head. “Do you prefer Kyle, out here amongst the dogs?”

“I think you said 'A dog and his pigs',” Gaz said.

“Well, the lapdog is very entertaining to tease and his pigs are very needed to get our business running.” (Y/N) shrugged. “Besides, I am very happy with how Graves makes Ghost react.”

Gaz smirked. “You like the fact he asks you to fuck him.”

“Yes, though you should know all about that, Kyle.” (Y/N) commented.

“Oh I do, I know far better than most people.” He responded.

“Aye, you do.” (Y/N) chuckled. “Does my father even know about what we did?”

Gaz nodded. “He found out when Ghost was honest and said everyone wanted to fuck your brains out,” Gaz said with a shrug. “He couldn’t do anything as he realised that everyone would in fact like to fuck you. He asked me why and I answered truthfully. He regretted asking and just let people be.” He said. “He figured it would keep people loyal to you when he retired.”

“It does tend to keep people close to me.” (Y/N) said.

“May I ask, how do you do it?” Gaz asked.

“You may and honestly, I don’t know. I am just charming. To some degree it is probably my training kicking in but… for me, this is just me.” (Y/N) said, once again, shrugging.

“Interesting,” Gaz said. “So it is all unintentional?”

“Probably to others at this point.” (Y/N) said. “But I do use it and wield it like a weapon.”

“Except with Ghost,” Gaz said.

“What?” (Y/N) asked.

“Except with Ghost. I see the way you look at him when you think no one is looking.” Gaz said. “You look at him as though he is your whole world and as if you would happily burn the whole world down just for him,” Gaz said.

“I do love him.” (Y/N) said as he leaned back.

“You love him more than you realise,” Gaz said. “You do realise it, right?”

“I…” (Y/N) looked away, his silence was enough.

Gaz tilted his head. “You didn’t realise you loved him?” He asked. “It’s okay to have emotions, to be human.”

“No, emotions are a weakness.” (Y/N) said. “Care is a weakness. I can’t be weak.”

“That’s why Ghost is here, why you have friends, so that if you are weak for a moment then they will support you. Have you not had that before?” Gaz asked softly.

“Get out.” (Y/N) choked out.

Gaz said nothing more, he stood up and left, closing the door behind him. Gaz looked at Ghost and sighed. “Check up on him.” He said before leaving.

Simon frowned before looking at Graves. “Excuse me.” He walked up the stairs and knocked. “Sir?”

He heard some shuffling around before (Y/N) cleared his throat. “Come in.”

Simon entered and tilted his head. “Are you okay?” He asked as he noticed (Y/N) had been crying, his eyes had puffed up.

“No, I… I am not good with emotions, Si.” (Y/N) said. “Kyle made me realise a few things, I… I can’t handle that well.”

Simon walked over and sat down in front of him. “Anything to talk about?”

(Y/N) shook his head. “Not right now. But thank you, Si.” (Y/N) chewed on his lip. Simon had never seen him so… nervous. “How are the recruits going?”

Simon stood up and walked behind the table. “(Y/N)?” He lifted (Y/N)’s face up with a finger under his chin. “Look at me, please.”

(Y/N) looked into his eyes. “Yes?”

“Are you okay?”

(Y/N)’s face conveyed very little emotion but his eyes were stormy as doubt and thoughts rushed through them. Every single fear he had ever felt was coming to life. “No.”

Simon sat in his lap and wrapped his arms around him. (Y/N) hesitated before wrapping his arms around Simon. He didn’t cry out loud, but Simon felt him shake as he sobbed into his shoulder, the facade of the charming suave man who got into everyone’s pants fell away and once again Simon saw the vulnerable man who had never experienced actual love before, he had gotten glimpses of that version of him in the past though never as much as right here.

They sat there for an hour, neither of them moved, and neither of them spoke. The lines were blurring. Simon had gained confidence in their time together and (Y/N) had slowly begun trusting him with his emotions. They were healthily shifting roles. They were becoming one.

Simon stood up and held his hand out to (Y/N) who took it silently. They walked out, got into the car and got home. Simon waved people away as he took (Y/N) straight up to their bedroom. He ensured the door was closed behind them before laying down on the bed, still fully clothed. (Y/N) joined him on the bed, he cuddled into him and placed his head on his chest before closing his eyes.

Simon wrapped his arms around him and drew small circles on (Y/N)’s hips as he watched him fall asleep. Simon fought off sleep himself for a while before he too succumbed to the would-be nap, except no one woke them up.

(Y/N) and Simon awoke together around midnight. Both were far too well-rested to go back to sleep. (Y/N) looked up at Simon before cupping his cheek. “Thank you, for taking care of me.” He whispered.

Simon kissed his palm. “I will always take care of you.” He whispered back before (Y/N) straddled him.

“May I?” (Y/N) asked softly.

Simon nodded.

(Y/N) kissed him, it was slow and full of love, there was no demand for anything to go further but Simon reached up and gently cupped his cheek as they kissed, his other hand went down further landing on (Y/N)’s lower back. When they pulled away to breathe, their foreheads pressed together. “I want you,” Simon whispered.

(Y/N) smiled and kissed him again. “Then you will have me. Go clean yourself and I will prepare everything here.” (Y/N) said softly as he got off him. He watched Simon walk off before lighting a few mildly scented rose tealights, he ensured there was lube, condoms and things to clean Simon up with afterwards before sitting down. His mind went to Simon’s lips, how sweet they tasted against him, how much he wanted him forever and how much he loved him. (Y/N) smiled softly.

Simon came back out, already naked. (Y/N) undressed before walking over. He looked up into his eyes. “I love you.” (Y/N) said. Simon smiled at that and kissed him before saying, “I love you too.”

(Y/N) led Simon over to the bed where Simon lay down. He got between his legs and grabbed the lube, he squirted a good amount on his fingers before he started preparing Simon. First, one finger, slowly in and out, gently easing its way, there was no need to rush. Every single movement was followed by a kiss to the thigh, not something that would leave visible marks but Simon would spend the rest of the week feeling the ghostly kisses.

(Y/N) added a second finger, he curled and spread his fingers just right to get small moans out of Simon, he looked up at him with a smile and watched as his eyes halfway closed. The sheer trust they had in each other was beautiful. He added more lube before adding a third finger. His fingers curled around Simon’s prostate drawing further soft moans out from him.

(Y/N) pulled away as he grabbed a condom. Simon whined as he felt empty, he looked at (Y/N) and bit his lip as he watched him take the condom. “I am clean,” Simon said. (Y/N) looked at him and tilted his head. “So am I. Are you sure you want to bareback this?”

Simon nodded. “Yes.” He said. “I trust you, we are both clean.”

(Y/N) gave a nod at that and lubed up his cock, it was already hard. He positioned them both just right before slowly sliding into him. He bottomed out and waited for Simon to get comfortable. “You are taking me so well.” (Y/N) praised. Simon smiled at that.

(Y/N) leaned down without stopping his movement. Simon held onto (Y/N) as they shared loving but sloppy kisses. Both chased their mutual satisfaction. “Fuck Si, you feel so good.” (Y/N) said against the kiss, his pace didn’t falter.

Simon’s grip on (Y/N)’s shoulders and arms didn’t falter as he moaned against the kiss. (Y/N)’s choice of words sent him spiralling closer to his own edge. “(Y/N), fuck, this is so good, please don’t stop!” He cried out. He opened his eyes and looked up at (Y/N). His cock was leaking precum all over his stomach. He detached one hand and reached down before tugging at his own cock, further sending him spiralling towards the fast-approaching edge. The knot in his stomach was forming faster than he could even begin to realise. “I’m close.”

(Y/N) felt a surge of pride, Simon was already so close just because of him. He fucked into him harder. “Cum when you can, Si.” He panted.

Simon kissed him again, their tongues clashed against each other as teeth hit teeth, it was sloppy, tired and loving.

(Y/N) bit Simon’s lower lip as he kept thrusting into him, he was barreling towards his own bliss, not caring as moans tore themselves from his mouth, his sense was flooded with Simon and the feeling of his wet warm hole.

Simon moaned out louder than before as white cum sprayed over his hand and his stomach. He clenched around (Y/N) who thrust into him a few more times before cumming deep inside him. (Y/N) panted out as the adrenaline left their bodies. “Fuck si… Ah god, you were good, this was, hmmm, amazing.” He said and pulled out, he watched as his cum fell out of Simon’s hole.

“You were even better,” Simon said from his blissed-out state.

(Y/N) chuckled and grabbed a towel before cleaning Simon up. “Thank you, my love.” (Y/N) said.

“Shower now or later?”

“In the morning,” Simon said as he opened his arms.

(Y/N) wrapped his arms around him as he lay down with him. “Hmm, whole rooms gonna stink of us, Si.” (Y/N) said.

“Fuck it,” Simon said and chuckled.

Both men rested for a few moments before falling asleep in each other's arms again.

All lines between them blurred. They had become more equal and more in love. Nothing could tear them apart now. Not John Price, not Police Chief Shephards and not (Y/N)’s family. They were a unit now. Perfect for each other and perfectly dependent on one another.

Hopefully nothing would go wrong.

Tag list:

@rasberry-jupiter @one-green-frog

#simon ghost riley x male reader #loudblondes cod mafia au #cod x male reader #cod men x male reader #simon riley x male reader #simon ‘ghost’ riley x male reader #male reader #simon riley x you #fanfiction

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stelladess · 21 days

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Been seeing people jump the gun regarding the idea we might get playable Theresa, whether they love or hate that idea (I am in the hate it camp because in my opinion it would undermine a lot of the themes of the Victoria arc, several important character arcs, and not really bring anything we cant already get without her becoming playable) I just wanna point out that it is almost 100% certainly not happening so you do not go around worrying or getting your hope up. In Lone trail its all but stated Theresa is dead during the "debate" with Friston in doc´s part of it:

Then in Kal´s part it is stated she is trying not to think about Theresa, which would be very odd if Theresa is just alive and working for Rhodes (all playable operators are either employees or in partnerships with Rhodes) also Theresa is mentioned alongside Theresis, who is extremely unlikely to survive the Victoria arc:

Lonetrail only came out one year before when chapter 14 will drop, so while rewrites happen I find it unlikely such a major thing as an important character death being truly undone (I feel calling Theresa as she is now "alive" is a bit generous) would happen in this short timeframe. There are also like... tons of thematic reasons with the writing which signals Theresa is passing on the torch and going to move on, that makes me think it is extremely unlikely that they will make her playable. In chapter 13, Arturia oprec of all places, things in multiple earlier chapters and side stories, side material to the game, etc... And as far as I can tell the reason people think she might become playable is literally just a leak that there is Theresa merch for 5th anniversary? Which, even if the leak is true, does not really suggest her becoming playable. It is quite likely she is gonna be the boss of the chapter for one and we have non playable character merch already.

#arknights #theresa arknights #arknights theresa

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zvaigzdelasas · 8 months

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The two countries are at odds over how to respond to the ouster of the West African country’s president in July. France is refusing to diplomatically engage with the junta and strongly supports a regional body that has threatened military intervention. The U.S. has dispatched an envoy to meet with the junta leadership and held back from officially declaring the takeover a coup — insisting there’s still a negotiated way to restore democracy.[...]

The situation suggests a shifting balance of power in the region and underscores the differences between Paris and Washington’s interests in the country. The U.S., which uses Niger as a base for counterterrorism operations, may also believe it has more leverage than France, not least due to Paris’ baggage as its former colonizer. Some former U.S. officials argue that France’s unhappiness with the U.S. approach is due in part to its agitation at losing one of its last strategic footholds in the West African Sahel, where other coups have already forced it to withdraw troops elsewhere. France has refused a request by the junta in Niger that it withdraw troops from the country.[...]

In West Africa, France is accustomed to seeing other world powers follow its lead, or at least its guidance. That’s not happening in this case. Acting Deputy U.S. Secretary of State Victoria Nuland, on a lightning visit to Niger, met with coup representatives on Aug. 7 and urged them to reverse their actions. But she was denied a meeting with the deposed president, Mohamed Bazoum, and she acknowledged afterward that the junta appeared unwilling to reverse its anti-democratic moves. French officials pointed to that as an example of being too quick to engage.[...]

Ali El Husseini, an American with connections to the junta, said Niger’s new military rulers do not trust the French, not least because French officials are acting like they “don’t exist.” They blame the French for the pressure they are feeling from surrounding countries, as well as what they see as corruption in Niger. They are unlikely to allow Bazoum back in charge, blaming him for much of that corruption as well, El Husseini said. But they are willing to engage with the United States, which they see as being less condescending, he said.[...]

“There is no popular support for the junta,” a senior French diplomat said. “We don’t see a new regime that is gaining legitimacy. And we have a legitimate president who is fighting for survival.”[...]

The Elysée Palace refused to comment on potential frictions between the U.S. and France, but the same senior French diplomat admitted there were differences in the approaches of partner countries seeking to resolve the crisis in Niger. “We all have the same aim of restoring constitutional order, but with just a couple nuances expressed [between countries],”[...]

France has pledged its full support to the West African body ECOWAS, which in meetings Thursday and Friday reiterated its threat of force if all else fails to restore democracy in Niger.[...]

Paris has indicated it would consider a request for military assistance should ECOWAS choose to intervene in Niger and ask for help. France has 1,500 troops in Niger. Its refusal to quit the country militarily is partly about showing its support for the elected government, with which it struck the agreements for basing its troops. The coup in Niger puts an end to one of the few solid partnerships Paris still enjoyed in the region, after it was forced to pull out troops involved in anti-terrorism operations in Mali and Burkina Faso. It would also signal a failure of Macron’s revamped Africa strategy[...]

“If Niger falls, it’s not just France’s Africa policy that will be knocked down, but Europe’s entire policy in Africa because it will give terrorists a free rein in the region” with deep impacts on “migration routes” to Europe, said Michèle Peyron, head of the French parliament’s friendship group with Niger and a French lawmaker from Macron’s Renaissance party. The United States has 1,100 troops in Niger, where it has spent hundreds of millions of dollars training security forces to battle terrorist organizations. Niger is a critical part of America’s overall counter-terrorism strategy, especially given the rise of Islamist extremist groups in Africa.. Unlike France, the United States has not yet formally designated the ouster of Bazoum a coup. Doing so triggers a law that could lead to an end to U.S. military aid to the country, although exceptions can be made. The United States has paused some security and economic programs to pressure the junta to restore Bazoum to power. It views its aid as leverage, but it also worries that fully halting the aid could mean losing that leverage.[...]

The junta appears unwilling so far to let financial considerations move it off its current course. It has threatened to try Bazoum for treason or even execute him in case of an outside military intervention. Some former U.S. officials said the United States should weigh its own interests before heeding French calls to shun the junta, and not just because of America’s counterterrorism interest in the country.[...]

“What good does it do to abandon the field to Russia, Wagner, or any other malign outside actor?” asked Peter Pham, a former senior State Department official with long experience on the continent.

18 Aug 23

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spookymystery67 · 3 months

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I Wish I Could Walk In Heels

AN: My procrastination is honestly getting out of hand. Past me really screws present me over. I finished most of this chapter today, so hopefully it's alright and you all enjoy it!

Chapter 16:

“Jill?” You couldn't believe your eyes. Her hair was slightly longer but you recognized her instantly. You hadn't seen or heard anything about her for so long, you had assumed the worst. What are the odds that she would be here?

“Y/n?” Jill was just as shocked to see you as you were her. She looked out into the hall behind her before walking fully into the room and shutting the door behind her. “Oh my god, I thought you were dead.” Jill told you as she lowered the gun in her hand and walked toward you.

“I had thought the same about you. I hadn’t been able to find anything confirming whether or not you made it out of the city. I assumed the worst happened.” You told her as you pulled her in for a quick hug. When you pulled away, you examined her and noticed she was donned in combat gear that was clearly made specifically for her.

“Oh, it did. A lot happened after we parted ways. But that’s a story for another time. What are you doing here?” She looked over and noticed Ada. “And who’s she?”

You glanced over to Ada and noticed the raised brow and guarded look on her face. She knew of Jill, you having shared all that had happened in Raccoon City before you two met in that jail when she was posing as an FBI agent. How you and Jill helped each other get through and survive those dangers that would have likely killed you had you been alone.

“Ada.” Ada deadpanned, going back to rummaging through the file cabinet. You rolled your eyes, unimpressed with her behavior. But you knew how she could be around strangers. Not to mention that you were both currently on a mission. In her mind, you had no time for pleasantries.

“Pleasure.” Jill snarked. You snorted and turned back to Jill.

“What are you doing here?” You questioned, glancing to the door to confirm it was locked.

“I asked you first.” Jill said as she glanced at Ada from the corner of her eye.

“Uh…” You didn’t know how to tell her you're currently on a mission to steal confidential files from Umbrella. You had no idea how she would take it. You looked to Ada for help as she grabbed a briefcase from the desk, dumped out whatever was in it, and placed the files she found into the case before shutting it.

She looked up at you and shrugged carelessly. “Don’t look at me. She’s your friend. You explain.” She crossed her arms and leaned against the desk, an evil smirk appeared on her face as she watched you stutter. She’s leaving the decision up to you on whether you tell Jill the truth or not.

“Wow. Thanks, Ada.” You glared slightly, making her smirk widen more.

“It wouldn’t happen to involve confidential files detailing every single one of Umbrella’s secret locations, would it?” Jill asked, staring intently at the briefcase resting on the desk, guarded by Ada.

You hesitated. “...Maybe. Don’t tell me you're here for it too.”

“I am. As helpful as that hard drive you gave me was, it wasn’t enough to take down Umbrella. As you have probably already guessed by now, considering they are still up and running.” Jill paused. “I have to ask. You’re not working for them, are you?”

You shook your head. “No. Of course not.” You firmly stated, sort of offended she would even suggest you would work for those monsters.

Technically, it was true. You weren’t working for Umbrella. While you and Ada did take the occasional job from Umbrella here and there, you tended to only go through with the ones that wouldn't end with world domination. Ada and you always went against the jobs you felt were going to result in a lot of deaths. Especially another Raccoon City incident.

Ada and you had your fair share of arguments over that in the beginning of this partnership. She insisted on going where the money was best, no questions asked. You had disagreed, claiming that you didn’t want to have a part in so many lost lives. Again. She didn’t believe that the outbreak was your fault. Logically, you knew this. But you still felt that you should have done something different back then. That you could have warned more people before it got worse.

Could have. Should have.

It didn’t really take too much to convince Ada. Deep down you knew she had felt the same way you did. She didn’t want to be a part of another outbreak either.

For this particular mission, it hadn’t been decided on whether the information of the files would result poorly if put back into the hands of Umbrella. Umbrella didn’t want the only physical copy of their secret bases locations in the wrong hands. Or, in your opinion, the right ones.

Jill noticed your offended expression. “I'm sorry. I had to ask. I didn't think you were. But if you're not here for the files because of Umbrella, then who are you here for?”

You glanced at Ada once again. You didn't really know. All you knew for sure was that you couldn't let the only hard copy of the secret locations be given back to the hand of Umbrella.

Ada sighed and rolled her eyes. “The next best buyer.” She stated, clearly over this conversation. You wonder what has her so cranky, she's usually much more level headed during missions.

“What? You're a mercenary now, Y/n?” Jill questioned, face neutral. You can’t tell whether she disapproved or not.

You went to answer when Ada interrupted from her spot on the desk. “She is. A pretty damn good one too.” You look at her incredulously, baffled by the false praise.

“Shut up. I am not. You do most of the work.” You told her, arms crossed.

“But you’re a great helper. Amazing really. My job has never been easier.” Ada smirked as your face flushed from her words.

Jill looked between the two of you, confused. “Are you two together or something?” She asked, completely brushing over her previous question and catching you off guard.

You look up at her, startled. “What? No. What gave you that idea?”

She smiled and shook her head, amused. “No reason. Just sensing some tension is all.”

“Jealous?” Ada purred as she stood from her spot on the desk, taking a few short steps toward you with the briefcase in hand. You sputtered, brain malfunctioning from the turn this conversation took, and stepped away slightly as you struggled to maintain composure.

Jill laughed and shook her head. “Maybe a little. You know we still haven’t had that sleepover yet, Y/n.” She joked.

You shook your head in disbelief. “So you're just going to completely brush over the fact that I’m a mercenary now?”

Jill shrugged. “As long as you’re not working with Umbrella or causing a lot of people to lose their lives, I don’t mind. Although, I have to ask that you don’t take those files. They are important to my mission and I can’t let them get into the wrong hands.” She said, glancing between you and Ada.

“Hmm, you have an offer for me, Jill? Otherwise, it can’t happen.” Ada said as she carelessly studied her polished nails for any flaws.

Jill goes to argue when you interrupt. “Sorry, can you excuse us for a moment?” You motioned to Jill to wait a second before grabbing Ada’s arm and lightly dragging her to the opposite side of the small room in a futile attempt to get some privacy.

“Ada, we have to give her the files. “ You started.

“Oh come on. The buyer I have lined up is offering money and isn’t Umbrella. Why not give it to him and get paid for our troubles?” Ada questioned, irritation across her features.

“Because this is a step toward the right direction. For them to get Umbrella shut down once and for all. We don’t even know what this guy is going to do with the files.”

“Leverage, as far as I’m aware. A way to get Umbrella under his thumb.”

“And that’s better?” You asked, causing Ada to grumble. “He’s just a power hungry asshole, he won’t do anything good with it. Give it to Jill, and she will put an end to it all.”

“Like she did with the hard drive you gave her?” Ada snarked.

“She took the step. And not everything about Umbrella was on that hard drive. She did what she could with what she had.” You defended.

“You would think it still would have made some noticeable impact in the last three years.”

“Look, we have to give them to her.” Ada goes to argue but you cut her off. “Please.” You begged.

She stared at you, her hardened eyes softened after a long moment before she gave in with a sigh. “Fine. But I’m taking it out of your next paycheck.” Ada said and you nodded with a smile.

“Deal.”

You and Ada walked back over to Jill, who had clearly been listening to the conversation the whole time. Ada grumpily handed over the briefcase to Jill.

“Thank you. Seriously, thank you.” Jill sighed in relief as she opened the case to go through the files.

“Everything you need in there?” You asked as Ada went back to leaning on the desk.

“Yup. Mission accomplished.” Jill joked.

“You’re welcome. Now we have to go. We’ve been here long enough.” Ada told you, urgency in her tone.

Jill nodded. “Agreed. How did you two get in here?”

“The vent.” You answered.

“Well the way I came has been cleared. I can lead you two out if you want. It will save you two the trouble of having to climb through the vent and get dustier.” Jill offered.

You brushed some of the lingering dust from your clothes as you looked to Ada for her input. “What do you think?”

“Oh, I have a chance to choose now?” Ada mocked, pointing to herself.

You rolled your eyes, a common occurrence around Ada, you realized. “Yes. Vent or hall?”

“By all means, the hall is fine. You just won’t get to enjoy the view as much.” Ada smirked.

You groaned in exasperation, a blush on your cheeks, as you turned back to Jill. “Lead the way, Jill.”

Jill smiled and grabbed her gun, holding it just in case. “Alright, let’s go.”

Jill managed to get both you and Ada out without gaining any attention from anyone in the building. Once you were all out, you walked into the forest, where the car you and Ada took on the mission was hiding from the main road.

“So, Y/n. I don’t have to report back on the mission until tomorrow. Do you want to go get a pizza and have that sleepover we talked about. We could catch each other up on what happened over the last three years.” Jill offered with a smile and glanced at Ada. “Ada can join too. I can imagine she has been a big part of your life for a while. I wouldn’t mind getting to know her too.” Jill sounded genuine. Despite how Ada had been acting, she really wanted your friend to come along.

Ada looked taken aback for a second, before putting her neutral face back on. “That’s nice of you to offer, but I think I will head back to my own place.” Ada told Jill before turning back to you. “You can go if you want, Y/n.”

“Are you sure?” You asked. You wanted to go. But something about the way Ada had been acting tonight had you confused. What was up with her?

“I’m sure. Go catch up with your friend. Just call me later so I know that you’re still alive.” Ada gave you a strained smile, something only you noticed, before walking to the car and leaving you and Jill alone.

“Okay, now that you have approval from the boss, do you want cheese or pepperoni?” Jill asked with a grin.

You grinned back. “Supreme sounds good.”

#ada wong #resident evil #ada wong x reader #resident evil x reader #claire redfield #jill valentine #leon kennedy #raccoon city

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w98pops · 17 days

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idk if you've talked about this yet or if its spoilers but how do Wendy and Chance meet and start working together? I love to see them

OWWW OWWW THIS IS SO FUN!!! I feel like the only logical thing to do for Chance after surviving the poison attempt would follow the group to the Goodsprings WHERE he wouldn't of course reach them but would meet the designated target.

Realistically, Chance has no reason to cooperate with a random child who couldnt even hold her gun properly but Khans do travel in groups and he needed someone to cover his back on the way to Novac. I feel like either of them were outright planning to kill Benny, Wendy was really going to Primm to make sure her foster parents knew she was okay and Chance followed the trail of Benny to reunite with his friends, but then Primm was not safe for Wendy to stay there and then they went to Novac and then Wendy didn't like Novac (although she thought Manny was cool and he taught her some basics around a sniper rifle) and then they went to Boulder City and Chance got really REALLY mad at Benny and Wendy was still a bit sore after a point blank between her eyes and the magic of Vegas lights seemed to promise her something new ... the rest is history :)

Their companionship is a bit odd but they are a good team, even though at the start Chance did just dragged her out into the desert because riding the Mojave alone is dangerous and he can always use her as a meat shield or a mule :D

In all seriousness, I feel like if it weren't for his company, Wendy wouldve died not even halfway through the journey. She's no superhero STR 10 or a stealth mastermind. Just a little courier girl in a big big world tryna do her best and miserably failing. Their bound does not come from some sort of guilt or pity Chance has, he would've punched her in the face and it wouldve ended her instantly, the bound exist solely by days and weeks of travelling together, proving and trusting each other, lord know how rare is it to find a trust-worthy companion in the Mojave. Wendy would never actually replace any Khan (even become one for that matter) but she's a good girl and Chance knows that :) OOC or not I think Chance is a pretty chill guy and their partnership with my courier is my favorite thing ever I DONT CARE!!! I LOVE THEM!!!

And thank you for asking I couldnt get them outta my head ever since I saw the ask 😭

#sorry if i was all over the place #LORD KNOWS i want to write a fanfic about these two.#im not talented enough to write in my native language let alone english so it will take some time 😭 bear with me #asks #fallout #oc: wendy #courier six #chance #fallout all roads

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saltymongoose · 10 months

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Cont. From This Post. (@cosmica-galaxy Hey, here you go lmao <3)

[This part contains: Bandits, MERC, the Nexus Core, Fanatics, N51, and Demoniacs]

To continue from where we left off when it comes to the Bandits, it would do well for the Player to be very hesitant on interacting with them. They're cannibalistic and violent, in addition to being the first to attack whenever they catch a glimpse of the Player's unofficial bodyguards. (Though that might be for the best, with Hank as their opponent.) In this way, it's unlikely for the Player to have much of a motive to get closer to them; the boys are so protective that a situation where they'd actually be able to befriend one of the more nonviolent members probably won't occur without serious effort.

In the same vein, the Bandits know very little about the Player, and they probably don't have much of an interest in them at the moment anyway. Typically their thoughts are more centered on their own survival and where their next meal is going to come from, which leaves little room for thoughts of an otherworldly being impacting their lives directly. If anything, they're more startled by the Player's entourage than the reason the SQ agents are in the area. Due to this, it would be difficult for the Player to form much of a bond with them simply because they won't cross paths very often. (And they would also probably be fearful if they did; the Bandits do not want to end up as additional victims of the wanted criminals that protect the Player.)

As of this moment in the story, the members of MERC are also in the same camp of not knowing about the Player - save for one person: Sheriff. Christoff has mentioned this "Player" to him once or twice, and while his words have been exceedingly positive (and almost idolizing) when discussing them, the Sheriff doesn’t know very much beyond what the Savior had told him. As a result, he himself thinks kindly of them, but not from his own experience. However, because he doesn’t know much about the Player, he never bothered to divulge such information with the others in MERC.

The Player, at this point in time, knows far more about them than vice versa, which makes them more likely to go out of their way to befriend them. Plus, it’s not like those in MERC are inherently hostile like with the Vamps or Bandits, and they have no real reason to go after the Player (save for their mission to interfere with Hank, Deimos, and Sanford getting into the city). So long as Sheriff and Jeb have a good relationship with the Player, the MERC members will have ample opportunity to make friendships with the otherworldly being in question. (Unless the SQ's leader and agents get in the way.)

Regarding what remains of the Nexus Core, they still follow Phobos' orders, which means that they probably will be hostile to the Player because of their choice in company (the SQ and Dr. Christoff). Even if the last thing that Phobos would ever want is for the Player to be harmed by his own organization (that just reflects horribly on him), he never actually made his people aware that the Player exists, which leads to this situation. The Player also has no motive to get in the way of the boys' mission to put a stop to Project Nexus, which would naturally puts them at odds with the Nexus Core anyway.

As a result, it is in the Player's best interest to avoid the Nexus Core's remaining personnel, which doesn't leave much room for bonds or friendships. While it is possible for some of their members to act cordially around them if the boys aren't around, I would say that it isn't worth the potential risk. Luckily the NC being unaware of the Player's existence means that they won't immediately go after them, but they're certainly not as open to outside partnerships of any kind at this point. They still have a project to complete, after all.

Crackpot's Fanatic faction is an interesting one; they're physically separated from most other Nevadans and almost entirely absorbed by their obsessions with buoyancy and Zeds, which means the chances of them knowing about the Player's significance are extremely small. The only way that the Fanatics would have their interests piqued is if one of them happened to see the Player exorcising some of their abilities (which is possible) - at which point, the Player would also probably end up as an object of their fascination. (Especially if the Fanatics happen to see them using their cheat that enables levitating. 😬)

As a result, the Fanatics' purpose for trying to get close to the Player isn't exactly for friendship itself, although it could turn into this with enough effort. Another likely result is for them to start worshiping the Player much like they do Crackpot instead (which their existing vessels would loathe, but that's a given). Regarding Crackpot himself, as detailed in previous posts, he might also try to use the Player for his own benefit given how power-hungry he is, but there is a chance that they can form something more genuine with him. If they're willing to put up with his self-grandeur, of course.

To get more on the Player's side of things, their curiosity might drive them to investigate the Fanatics more. The group's behavior is questionable, but there is a lot about them that remains unknown to those who play the game, so there's always that avenue to explore. Plus, seeing how Crackpot interacts with people who give him the respect he's always felt he deserved would also be intriguing. Again, if they're willing to put up with all the weirdness that comes with being close to the Fanatics and their leader.

Moving on to the N51, it's one of the most mysterious groups in Nevada, especially from the Player's standpoint. They're a faction that wasn't even created by Mr. K, so they're definitely pretty unique, even if they don't play a huge role in the Arena Mode storyline. I can see the Player having an immense interest in them as a big fan of Madcom (especially if they keep up with the communities' fan projects), so they'll probably want to dig deeper into the organization. However, they would probably have great difficulty with that, considering that the N51 is a covert group.

That being said though, the N51 is shown as hunting for tech related to the more powerful forces of Madcom's universe, like the AAHW, NC, and even The Machine. I would presume they do so because they want to know more about the Employers, enmeshment, etc. but truthfully their reasoning for this is unknown. What this does tell us though is that there is a chance they would be interested in the Player's existence primarily because they're a supernatural being of unknown origin - and a very powerful one at that. Whether this attention would be good for the Player or not is another matter.

Finally, we have the Demoniacs. These guys worship Stygian, and they have little to no contact with any other factions, which already cuts down the chances of them hearing about the Player to almost zero. Their interest in the supernatural is really limited only to their chosen Employer, and as such, they don't have much incentive to seek out information about the Player either. However, if Stygian decides to order the Demoniacs pursue information about them, it's not like the cult would ever consider refusing. There are uses to having fiendishly devout worshipers, and Stygian knows this very well.

The Player would also be aware of the Demoniac's servitude towards the Employer from their experience playing the game, and as a result, would probably seek to avoid them the same way they avoid the AAHW. They're very low on the scale of potential friendship, if only because of their affiliation with Stygian.

Aaand I think that's it if we're talking about faction relations lmao. Though do let me know if I missed any groups, and I'll be happy to discuss them as always. 👍 :)

#heyo I got some more lore for you all 🤟#ask #cosmica-galaxy #samau #self aware m:pn au #longest ask response ever 2023

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