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islandofsages · 3 months

Note

Hey, I wanted to ask for the housewardens with a male!reader from their dorm that have the same name as the Seven's sidekicks (?).

Example : Cerberus for Idia, Diaval for Malleus, FlotSam for Azul, ect...

And people (*cough* Yuu *cough*) always compared the reader with the housewarden and always say things like : "oh yeah, the new Diaval and the new Maleficent.." *looking at Reader and Malleus talking about Briar Valley.*

characters: the housewardens x male reader

tags: platonic, fluff + crack, imagines + scenario format; yuu is there, mentions of ruggie and jack in leona's, mentions of the leech twins in azul's, mentions of jamil in kalim's, mentions of ortho in idia's, mentions of sebek in malleus'

warnings: nothing

author's notes: i tried to choose characters that aren't already inspirations for the characters in the game so some of them end up being from the second movie and stuff LOL sorry if this isnt what you want anon but honestly i did have a lot of fun writing this

Riddle Rosehearts — The King of Hearts

You’re not sure why and how but you’re dubbed as The King of Hearts of your dorm, alongside Riddle who is the Queen

Unsure of what to make of this, you ignore it and continue to devote yourself to the Queen just as any normal person would sorry this is kinda satire

Riddle is simply your friend. You cherish him a lot and you respect him and his beliefs. Even when he overblotted, your faith in him is unwavering

Speaking of the overblot, after the whole catastrophe, you’ve grown a lot closer with the other card soldiers, along with the magicless kid named Yuu and their pet (Grim was his name?)

They would greet you from time to time, stop by to have a chat when they’re free and check up on the dorm

One day, they made an offhand comment about you and Riddle

“You guys are paving the way for the new generation of the Queen of Hearts and the King of Hearts. Though, I guess the King of Hearts didn’t really do anything anyway.”

First of all, what the hell are you talking about?

Second of all, you’d say you contribute much to the dorm. For Yuu to assume such a thing for you simply because some “past King of Hearts” didn’t do so is ridiculous

You don’t voice these things out loud and shrug it off as them saying random things again, or making some kind of reference you don’t get

And because, third of all, you realize they broke rule 228: they definitely picked a rose in your garden. So you go to kick them out before Riddle could find out.

All in the day’s work for the King of Hearts.

Leona Kingscholar — Zira

You could say you and Leona are tight - maybe not Ruggie and Leona tight, but almost

And part of that can be attributed to the fact that you may or may not idolize Leona. But hey, it’s not strange. If Jack can do it, why can’t you? At least it’s not on Sebek’s level

Plus, you deserve to have some pride in yourself for being one of the only people Leona confidently calls a friend of his

Though, one person has been persistent about being Leona’s friend - Yuu, the person who just spawned out of nowhere apparently

You’d catch them talking to Leona sometimes and to be frank, there are times where Leona is less annoyed than usual at their presence

One day in particular, the three of you are hanging around Savanaclaw’s lounge, when Yuu drops a bombshell

“Ah yes, of course, you two are exactly like Scar and his creepily-devout follower, Zira.”

??? Yes, Zira is (a variation) of your name but you wouldn’t call yourself “creepily-devout”. Also, who even is Scar?

Leona’s ears twitch in annoyance, either because he doesn’t understand what Yuu means or that he’s put off by their phrasing

You sit in silence, deciding if this is a topic worth asking more about or not

Curiosity gets the best of you - you ask them. They basically dump all the information they could onto you

Yeah, you still don’t get it. But whoever this other Zira is, they’re kinda cool honestly.

Azul Ashengrotto — Morgan(a)

A lot of people consider you one of Azul’s henchmen alongside Jade and Floyd - God forbid working to the bone every day for the Mostro Lounge, right?

But you don’t take it as an insult. It’s no compliment to be so loyal to such a capitalistic bastard (said affectionately) but it’s just another part of your life

Plus. You’re friends with the dude. His cunning nature is what you’re here for

Maybe sometimes you feel a little inferior to him since everyone lauds him as some powerful mage but you tell yourself you don’t need such prestige

Though even outside of work, sometimes you see that Yuu person loiter around the Mostro Lounge in search of Azul (and the Leech siblings occasionally)

So you decide to sit down with them one day and have a nice little chat when-

“So you’re the Morgana dude right? You definitely give off the vibes. Let me guess: you have a love-hate relationship with your stronger, superior boss?”

You have to do a double take at what they just spouted - where are these assumptions coming from suddenly?

Also your name is Morgan.

They laugh and assure you it’s only a joke and a reference to a movie they like since Azul and you have an uncanny resemblance to the characters in that movie

Even still, you can’t help but feel confused… no way they just go up to people and reference things they enjoy right…?

You try to work on your vibes starting the very next day.

Kalim Al-Asim — Aladdin

You’re somewhat of an enabler for Kalim’s party animal and reckless tendencies which Jamil doesn’t really appreciate but also you don’t give a shit

Who can say no to free food and music? Well, a specific amount of people but you’re definitely not one of them

Kalim is friends with everyone; or rather, he considers everyone a friend and that considerately counts you too

But you two really are though - after the party’s died down, the two of you would chat late into the night about everything and anything. And it works because he’s such a good listener

At one of his many parties, the Yuu person who’s apparently from another world comes to party along with you

And so you eat and dance as one usually would under Kalim’s rule, learning bits of information about Yuu along the way

As per usual, the party dies down so you, Kalim and Yuu take the chance to relax and have a concrete conversation

At some point, Yuu comments on your name (and apparent namesake…?)

“Wait, so your name is Aladdin? Like the thief guy who fell in love with the Sultan’s daughter? Feels kinda weird since Kalim kinda reminds me of the Sultan himself…”

Well, yes, your name is Aladdin although you just tell people to call you Ali but everything else they just said is completely false

You all laugh it off because the mood is appropriate for an elaborate joke as such but the next day, when you think over the whole interaction, you have to wonder what was going on through their head at the time

You make a mental note to see if you’ll ever fall in love with a sultan’s daughter.

Vil Schoenheit — Raven

You’re a little intimidated by Vil but you have as much respect for him as anyone does

And somehow, you manage to gain his respect too, though you are a mere spudling…

You try not to let it get to your head (especially considering he has more respect for some other spuds than you) but it’s no easy feat to get a compliment from Vil Schoenheit himself

One person in particular has been getting a lot of attention from Vil lately, you’ve noticed

This Yuu person has been stopping by Pomefiore a lot lately, ever since the weird invasion at school where a bunch of robot people broke into the school grounds

You don’t question it because they’ve been interacting with Vil since the VDC but the thing is Yuu has been trying to get to know more of the dorm members

And one day, they get to you finally

They seem normal enough once you two sit down to chat in the lounge—

“Hm, so your name is Raven? I think I vaguely remember a raven being in Snow White…”

You have no idea what that means and before you could change the topic yourself, Yuu dismisses it; but then the next day, when you were thinking about the exchange again, you get curious as to what a Snow White is

So you start to scour the Internet for this “Snow White” and it manages to consume you for a few days until Yuu tells you that it’s just a movie from their world

You don’t talk to them for a few days.

Idia Shroud — Meg

You and the Shroud brothers are more like frenemies than anything - you three banter like old friends who know too much about each other

Other than Ortho, Idia does ask you for some favors a lot and you like joking that he’s drowning in debt when it comes to you

Sometimes he pays back by gaming with you, sometimes he pays with actual money. Good money at that. You don’t complain either way

One day you run another favor for him (which he promises more good money for) to send some stuff to Ramshackle

A person named Yuu and their only other dorm member Grim had sent stuff to Idia for repairing and maintenance - not that you care about the details. You’re just gonna get it over with

Once you reach their dorm, the first thing you’re met with are the two dorm members bickering over something. You chuckle; it reminds you of your conversations with Idia

You excuse yourself for interrupting and go to drop off their things on the table in the middle of the lounge

They stop bickering then and Yuu greets you momentarily before muttering something under their breath

“Of course the new Meg to the new Hades dropped off our stuff.”

You assume they don’t know that you heard what they said and quite frankly you don’t want to care much but you admit you’re a bit curious of what they mean

When you get back to Idia, you ask him to decipher that cryptic message

He admits he has no idea what they mean by that, simply tells you not to think about it and pays you with some good old cash - and some fun gaming time so you forget all about it later anyway.

Malleus Draconia — Diaval

You are one of Malleus’ loyal retainers - you were bestowed the honor of being his “wings” even whatever that means

But Malleus sees you as an equal almost. You are no servant and you have your own wings to tend to; it’s the stuff that would move Sebek to tears

You do see him as a friend mostly, even if at first you started doing so out of pity

But now you see him making more friends around campus and you can’t help but feel happy for and proud of him

There’s one friend who he seems to be around a lot - the magicless human named Yuu

It makes sense since he does enjoy taking walks around their dorm, even before they came to occupy it

One day, you three make the time to have tea together and simply talk. It’s all very pleasant when Yuu says-

“You know, don’t you think it’s weird how your name is Diaval and you’re serving someone who’s strangely reminiscent of Maleficent?”

Well, you don’t think it’s weird because you have no idea what they’re referencing and who Maleficent is - and Malleus seems to think the same, with the confused look on his face and all

Also as true as it is that you’re Malleus’ retainer, you don’t appreciate someone phrasing it as you “serving” him

Yuu apologizes for the comment and explains what they mean by it. You both still don’t get it but it’s enough to make you shrug it off

Sometimes Yuu would still make such comments, thinking you don’t hear it but knowing it’s not that deep, it doesn’t affect the three of you’s friendship whatsoever.

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bratshaws · 7 months

Text

through the hourglass 254. brb x oc

a/n: sorry for no smut, just had...an off day and couldn't really write it :/ but i did enjoy this chapter a lot (comments and reblogs are super welcome and encouraged!)

pairing: plus size!oc x rooster

warnings: none uwu

goodness gracious (pls read this one to know more what this fic is about!!)

chapter

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Call him protective but his hand hasn’t left Beatrice since they sat down. He either kept his hand on her thigh or on her shoulder or at her lower back. She appreciated it, because she was just quietly letting Miranda talk while politely nodding to everything that came out of that woman’s mouth.

She had no idea what was coming out of her mouth.

Maybe she was dissociating again, hard to say.

She sent Rooster a quick look while she brought her straw to her lips, swallowing some of the cranberry juice quietly as she took in her husband’s reaction. His jaw muscle was jumping, he was annoyed.

“Oh but,anyway,” Miranda giggles, waving her hand, “You two, right, how do you deal with the whole deployment thing?” Bea tries to answer, but Miranda immediately cuts her off, ‘Because I have such a hard time with Mark,my goodness, he’s so handsome it’s sometimes hard to imagine women not throwing themselves at him.”

Beatrice felt a surge of annoyance rise within her as Miranda continued to prattle on, her words veering into uncomfortable territory. She couldn't help but notice the smug grin on Miranda's face as she mentioned her husband's supposed desirability, and it grated on her nerves.

Rooster's grip on her hand tightened subtly, his irritation palpable but still hidden. He shot Beatrice a quick, reassuring glance before turning his attention back to Miranda. "Well, Miranda," he replied evenly, his tone controlled, "it's all about trust and communication in our relationship. We know we can rely on each other, and that makes the distance more bearable."

Beatrice nodded in agreement, doing her best to maintain her composure despite Miranda's intrusive questions. "Yes," she added, "and staying connected through phone calls and video chats helps bridge the gap."

Miranda's smile remained in place, but there was a calculating glint in her eyes. "I see," she said, her voice dripping with faux innocence. "But it must be difficult, don't you think? The temptation is always there."

Rooster's jaw clenched, and he took a deep breath before responding. "Trust is a powerful thing," he said firmly. "And we have complete trust in each other. That's what makes our relationship strong."

Beatrice couldn't help but admire Rooster's ability to maintain his composure in the face of Miranda's probing questions. She knew he was fiercely protective of their relationship and their family, and he was dangerously calm now.

Miranda seemed satisfied with Rooster's response, at least for the moment. She shifted the conversation to another topic, asking about their plans for the future. “So you work at a bar.”

“Yes.”

“Hmmm,I see.” Miranda plays with her drink, “What’s it like? You like it?”

Beatrice blinked, then shrugged her shoulders with a small smile, “...yes,I love it, I’ve been working there for the past five years.”

Miranda raised an eyebrow, her gaze scrutinizing. "A bar can be quite the interesting place," she commented, her tone laced with subtle condescension. "I'm sure you have plenty of stories to tell."

Beatrice's smile remained polite, though her patience was beginning to wear thin. "Oh, there are always interesting characters and stories," she replied, choosing her words carefully. "It's part of what makes the job unique."

Miranda seemed unfazed by Beatrice's measured response, her eyes never leaving Beatrice's face. "And Rooster," she continued, "how do you feel about Beatrice working in such an environment? I can imagine it's not easy."

Rooster’s interest was brief, his eyebrow kicking up. "Beatrice is fantastic at her job," he said, his tone leaving no room for doubt. "I have complete trust in her."

Beatrice felt a rush of warmth in her heart and she smiles. She reached for his hand under the table, giving it a gentle squeeze and he squeezed right back.

Miranda, however, was not deterred. She leaned in closer, her gaze locked onto Beatrice's. "It's just that," she began, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "working in a bar can expose one to all sorts of...temptations, don't you think?"

Beatrice’s teeth clenched and she was almost glad Rooster didn’t hear that conversation, but her hand squeezed his fingers in an almost painful way. Her husband's subtle wince wasn’t seen by her, but she did rub her thumb against his hand to apologize, “Excuse me.” she stands up, “I have to go to the bathroom. Roos,” he turns over to her, eyebrows low and eyes worried, “I’ll be right back.”

She hated leaving Rooster alone with those two, but she needed a break.

Rooster nodded in understanding, his concern evident in his eyes as Beatrice excused herself from the table. He watched her go, his gaze lingering on her until she disappeared from sight.

Beatrice’s heels clicked as she sped through the rich people surrounding her, eventually finding the large bathroom and locking herself in one of the stalls. She grounds, sitting on the closed toilet with her lower lip disappearing into her mouth as she tries her breathing exercises.

Smell the flower,blow the candle.

Repeat.

But she was so angry, she was so annoyed and they just got there. She didn’t want to cause a scene…so she decided to call Shells. Hopefully her friend could help in some way.

“Helloooo…”

“Hi Shells.”Bea whispers, keeping her head up with a hand on her cheek, “How’s Nikki doing?”

On the other end of the line, Shells's voice was warm. "Nikki's doing great," she replied, "Bob is keeping her entertained, and she's been such a little sweetheart today. How's everything going with you and Rooster?"

Beatrice let out a sigh, her frustration and anxiety bubbling just beneath the surface. "It's…complicated," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "We're at dinner with the Haltons, and it's just...unpleasant."

Shells's hum meant a lot, but especially meant a ‘no,really?’ "Well,wanna share, Bea?"

Beatrice hesitated for a moment, not wanting to reveal too much, especially over the phone. But she needed to talk to someone, to vent her frustrations. "They're prying into our lives," she finally said, her voice tinged with frustration. "Asking personal questions, trying to dig into our family and careers. It's like they're interrogating us."

"That sounds incredibly invasive," she replied. “Fuckin’ annoying too. You think they are up to something?”

Beatrice wasn't sure, but the unease in the air and the Haltons' persistent questioning made her suspicious. "I don't know," she admitted, rubbing her temples. "But I can't shake the feeling and it's making me so angry."

"Try to stay calm, Bea," she suggested. "Don't let them get to you."

“You are telling me to calm down?” the brunette chuckles, surprised, “That’s new.”

“Bea,hey,come on.I’m a good example….but really you can beat them up if you want.”

Beatrice couldn't help but chuckle at Shells's attempt to lighten the mood. "I'll keep that in mind," she replied, her tone softening. "Thanks for being a good friend, Shells. I just needed to vent a bit."

Shells laughed on her end of the line. "Anytime, Bea," she said warmly. "You know I've got your back. And if you ever need help plotting revenge on the Haltons, just give me a call."

Beatrice couldn't help but smile. "I might take you up on that offer," she replied. "Thanks, Shells.I gotta go now. See you soon,okay?"

"Oke doke, Bumblebea," Shells said. "Take care.You and Rooster will get through this. Peace out."

With a final exchange of goodbyes, Beatrice hung up the phone and turned her attention back to the bathroom door, inhaling shakily and trying her best to go back to them without losing her mind. The prickling of her anxiety appeared, but she was going to be okay.

Beatrice took a moment to compose herself, taking a deep breath and running her fingers through her hair. She couldn't let the Haltons' intrusive questions and condescending attitude get to her. They were guests at this dinner, and she and Rooster had the upper hand in controlling the situation.

As she reentered the dining area, Rooster immediately looked back at her, his conversation with Mark forgotten for a second as he waits for her. Beatrice took her seat next to him and gave him a reassuring smile, placing her hand on his thigh under the table.

Miranda seemed to have picked up on Beatrice's momentary absence, and her gaze lingered on her as she returned to the table. "Is everything all right, Beatrice?" she asked, her voice dripping with faux concern.

Beatrice met Miranda's gaze with a cool, composed expression. "Everything's fine, Miranda," she replied, her tone calm and measured. "I just needed to use the bathroom." she turned to Rooster, “Did I miss something?”

Translation: did they do something?

Rooster gave Beatrice's hand on his thigh a reassuring squeeze under the table, his eyes never leaving hers. "Nothing important," he replied, his tone casual. "Just some small talk."

Beatrice nodded, her smile remaining in place as she turned her attention back to the table. She couldn't let Miranda's probing questions or her condescending attitude get to her. “That’s good.”

The dinner conversation continued, but the tension between Rooster, Beatrice, and the Haltons remained palpable. Miranda seemed to take the lead in directing the conversation, while Mark chimed in with his own comments, all carefully veiled with passive-aggressiveness.

Miranda's tone turned even more condescending as she addressed Beatrice once again. "Beatrice," she began, her voice dripping with sweetness, "I couldn't help but notice the lovely family photos in your home. You must cherish your role as a mother."

Beatrice maintained her composure, though her grip on Rooster's thigh tightened slightly under the table. She knew Miranda was trying to provoke her, but she wasn't going to take the bait. "I do," she replied evenly, her tone unwavering. "My family means the world to me."

Miranda's smile remained in place, but her eyes gleamed with something that made Beatrice uneasy. "That's wonderful to hear," she said, her words laced with hidden meaning. "It's important to have priorities, after all."

Beatrice’s eyes squinted, “What’s that supposed to mean?” and Rooster had to bite back his smirk because that was usually his line.

Miranda's smile widened, her tone still sugary sweet. "Oh, Beatrice," she replied, her voice dripping with condescension, "it's just an observation. Family is such a precious thing, isn't it?"

Beatrice kept her eyes on Miranda, tapping the bottom of her glass repeatedly against the table. The little string that kept her anger in check snapped and her smile turned predatory, “Why are you asking me that?” she tilts her head, “You seem very interested in our family. Just like your husband is interested in my husband’s family and my job at the bar?” her smile widened, “Why don’t we talk about that?”

The air in the private dining area seemed to grow heavier as Beatrice's words hung in the space between them. Rooster couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in his wife for standing her ground and confronting the Haltons directly. He kept a watchful eye on Mark and Miranda, ready for their response.

Miranda's smile never wavered, but there was a glint of annoyance in her eyes. "Beatrice, dear," she replied, her tone still saccharine, "you seem to be misunderstanding our intentions. We're just trying to get to know our neighbors better, that's all."

Beatrice tutted, “Oh no, getting to know your neighbors is one thing," she said, her voice firm, "but prying into their personal lives and making veiled insinuations is another." she smiles more, “I can read people well.”

Rooster watched as Mark, who had been relatively quiet during the exchange, finally spoke up. "Beatrice," he said with a smooth smile, "we apologize if our questions came across as intrusive. That wasn't our intention."

Rooster couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at Mark's response. It was clear that the Haltons were trying to downplay their probing questions and the underlying tension in the room.

Miranda, however, wasn't about to let the matter drop. "We're just concerned, that's all," she added, her tone faux-concerned. "We-”

“Your concern is gathered but not welcome.” Beatrice’s voice turns firm, in a way Rooster had never seen before…and it was really attractive, “We have a very,very good life.” her voice shakes a bit, “And my husband is really good at what he does…Miranda were you a bully when you were younger?”

Miranda's smile remained in place, but her eyes glittered with irritation at Beatrice's boldness. "Beatrice, dear," she replied, her tone still sugary, "we're only looking out for our neighbors. It's natural to be curious, don't you think?"

“You said that before. And you didn’t answer my question.” she taps her glass a bit harder, “Because you remind me a lot of my former bullies.”

The tension in the private dining area grew thicker with each passing moment. Rooster could feel it coiling around them, a palpable force that hung in the air. Beatrice's direct confrontation had caught the Haltons off guard, and they were struggling to maintain their facade of politeness.

Mark cleared his throat, his smile still in place but strained. "Beatrice," he said, his tone attempting to regain control of the conversation, "we certainly didn't mean to offend you. We're just curious about our new neighbors, that's all."

Beatrice leaned back in her chair, her eyes never leaving Miranda's. "Curiosity is one thing," she replied, her voice steady, "but prying and insinuations are another."

Miranda's eyes flickered with annoyance, but she maintained her composure. "We apologize if we gave you the wrong impression," she said, her voice icy. "We only wanted to make friendly conversation."

Rooster could see the thinly veiled frustration on Miranda's face, and he knew that their direct approach had rattled her. But Beatrice could be even more protective than he was,especially when it came to them and their family, “You were almost asking if we ever cheated on one another.” Rooster chokes on his beverage as Beatrice says that, “And that isn’t friendly conversation.”

He was having a hard time holding back his laughter, those two looked absolutely gobsmacked.

Mark and Miranda exchanged glances. It was clear that their attempts to steer the conversation back to a more polite tone were failing. Miserably.

Mark finally spoke up again, his tone strained but still attempting to maintain a facade of civility. "Beatrice, we truly didn't mean to overstep," he said, "and we apologize if our questions were intrusive."

Miranda chimed in, her voice dripping with insincerity. "Yes," she said, "we simply wanted to get to know our neighbors better, that's all."

Beatrice sighed, “You keep repeating that.” and she sips her drink, smacking her lips, “And I keep not believing it, so here’s my little something I kinda gathered: you were a queen bee back in Virginia, probably one of the best - in your mind - military wives in your neighborhood.” Miranda’s smile finally dropped, she got her, “And you don’t like how I manage things with Rooster so well, because we have great chemistry.”

She pauses, looking down in her glass. “Damn is there alcohol on this,Roos?”

“I don’t think so,gorgeous.” Rooster couldn't help but smirk as he watched Beatrice deftly navigate the conversation, exposing Miranda's thinly veiled attempts at politeness for what they truly were. It was clear that Miranda was growing increasingly uncomfortable with Beatrice's directness, and he couldn't blame her.

Mark cleared his throat, attempting to regain control of the conversation. "Beatrice," he said, his tone carefully measured, "we appreciate your insights, but I assure you, we have no ulterior motives."

“I mean you did kinda hound my uncle at the base.”Rooster finally speaks, “You also ask some weird shit,Mark. So, to us, this whole dinner seems like a reason to ‘know your enemy’ than anything else. I mean,dude, we are both in the Navy, both pilots…I didn’t even know you until a few weeks ago.”

Mark cleared his throat again, his tone forcedly pleasant, voice raspy because the saliva was gone from his mouth. "Rooster, Beatrice," he began, "we may have had some misunderstandings, but we truly want to put them behind us. We're neighbors, after all."

Both Bradshaws stared at them, then Rooster placed his glass down, “You know, I think you two are just too…what’s the word,gorgeous?”

“Intrusive.”

“Yes and very,very strange. So…” he taps his hand on the table, “I don’t think there’s…anything else to talk about, so we just might go,huh Bea?”

Beatrice nodded in agreement, a slight edge to her smile. "I think that's a good idea, Roos," she said, her voice polite but firm. "We appreciate the dinner invitation, but it's getting late, and we should head home."

“But–”

“No buts.” Rooster says firmly, “This dinner was…interesting. But let’s keep this professional.” he snaps his finger, “By the way, we’ve been here before. We know the owner.”

Neither of them said anything. Rooster pulled a few dollar bills from his wallet, then placed it on the table, “Here, our share.” he leans back and placed a hand on Bea’s waist, “Good evening.” luckily, the people inside Oda were too busy with themselves to notice the tense conversation they were having and if they did, they didn’t care.

Beatrice let Rooster guide her down the stairs towards the entrance, thanking the hostess who was nothing but kind to them - although she seemed upset she’d have to deal with only the Haltons now.

The brisk night air greeted Rooster and Beatrice as they stepped out of the restaurant. They walked in silence for a few moments, the weight of the evening's encounter still heavy on their minds as they waited for the valet.

Finally, Beatrice spoke, her voice reflective. "That was...strange," she said, her brow furrowing. "I've never felt so scrutinized during a dinner."

Rooster nodded in agreement, his expression serious. "Yeah," he replied. "It was like they were trying to dig into our lives, figure us out."

Beatrice glanced over at her husband, "Do you think they're going to stop, Roos?" she asked quietly. "I mean, they kept pushing…"

Rooster considered her question carefully "I don't know,gorgeous," he admitted. "But I think for now, we are done with it."

“Hm…okay.”

“By the way,” he whistled low, “Damn…damn that was hot.” she blinked up at him, “I love when you get all protective of me, it’s so hot, baby.” he looks around to check if anyone was close by, leaning down once he noticed the street was empty, “I gotta say…” he gently drags his finger down her cleavage until it reaches the fabric of her dress, “Kinda…made me hungry for a little snack.”

Her pupils dilated and her lower lip slid into her mouth, “...oh?” “Yeah…I really,really want a taste.” he smirks, kissing her lips briefly, thumb gently rubbing her lower lip to expose the soft pink underside, “Been cravin’ some peaches lately.”

#bradley rooster bradshaw #rooster bradshaw #bradley bradshaw x oc #top gun maverick #bradley bradshaw x reader #bradley bradshaw x female reader #bradley bradshaw x named reader #tgm oc #tgm fic #tgm fanfiction

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canmom · 1 year

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Worth the Candle, end of 228.

so. I understand it now. this is Baru Cormorant: When They Cry.

i thought this story was going to be stupid fun, in a kind of well-above-average litrpg way - I was (kinda still am) very depressed and the other books I was reading were too heavy. instead, it surprised me be being good, like actually good: a genuinely thoughtful, well structured and even insightful story. this is not something that I ever expected to write about a litrpg isekai webserial, and certainly not a 'ratfic'.

it does, admittedly, take a while to come into its own. what 'its own' turns out to be is, as one commentator deemed it, 'competence porn for therapy'.

at first i thought it was about grief, then i recalibrated to a really scathing self-crit, as the story worked to absolutely dismantle self insert protagonist Juniper interpersonally and ideologically. now, 25 chapters from the end (which is still like an entire novel lol) it seems to be... complex metafiction about learning to work through shit and understand yourself and other people? woven of course in between exploring a variety of off-the-wall magic systems and settings, with an analytic eye to how and why they're made.

it's safe to say it blows Yudkowsky out of the fucking water. if more ratfic is like this, i might have to get into the genre.

it can be quite... dry isn't the right word, but there's a lot of chapters of people having penetrating conversations about their motivations and feelings, or coming up with plans, or the nature of the story they're inhabiting. which isn't to say it can't hit the feelings or evoke a mood... especially if that mood is an oppressive one, but there's plenty of genuine humour. it's often kind of horny but in a really analytic way, where it's about breaking down hangups around sex that largely happens off camera, and sexuality is just part of what comes under the scope. in some ways it feels... anthropological, in the sense of autoethnography - which I suppose is what it is, given how much Wales seems to be putting his own experiences into it, though of course I'm not sure exactly the line between what is directly roman à clef for his own life and what is there for a rhetorical point. some of the constructions and parallels feel too neat to be exactly real, but that doesn't say a lot, bc if you're fictionalising something you'd neaten it up.

it steers determinedly towards just about all the thorniest topics you can think of: grief, depression, suicide, rape (of its protagonist), genocide, eugenics. astonishingly, given its peers, it handles them with - for the most part, I'm not really sure about where they're going with the Tuung - a lot of grace.

it can be a bit cheeky with the metafiction occasionally but generally uses it purposefully, in the same way that a When They Cry VN teaches you how to read it. (promise I'll get back to that). in general it commits to the bit, hard. a brief arc riffs on the one page rpg Actual Cannibal Shia LaBeouf, in a way that sounds like it would be way too stupid, and yet it somehow makes it work by playing it serious.

it's a curious story to read because you have to take everything on at least four levels: what it means on the base level, how it fits in to the story that is being constructed with the diegetic DM character (the 'narrative' that the characters are aware of), how it reflects back on the inciting incidents on Joon's D&D games and grief spiral on Earth, and the purpose it's being put towards by Wales in the webnovel. (we can go further and take after Eco in distinguishing the author suggested by the text from the actual person Alexander Wales, but that's more @baeddel 's department.)

and now I've finally reached the Fel Seed Incident. cw rape. also spoilers.

the Fel Seed Incident is foreshadowed from early in the story, as the most heinous thing that Joon did while misanthropically turning on everyone after the death of his best friend Arthur. it's pretty much exactly what I thought, given the foreshadowing: Joon created a cheap grimdark body horror scenario to vent his feelings, that scenario centred on a sadistic rapist villain, a new player who Joon held in contempt joined the group, who was a rape survivor, and Joon steamrolled through several attempts to get him to back down, drove her away, flipped his lid and drove her boyfriend away, and made the session miserable for everyone by making Fel Seed invincible. most of this was pretty much spelled out already, but not the rape part.

this is the keystone of the whole story, and the reason it's delivered so late is because basically everything leading up to this point is telling us how to interpret this scene. particularly the arc where Joon gets raped by his sentient house, who then goes away for a long time to be taught a sense of ethics by the girl who eats demons to get therapy insight (I say, very matter of factly). Joon was pathetic and shitty, but it wasn't some grand act of sadism, just a tawdry story of lashing out at someone in the wrong place who he considered an annoyance beneath his notice - a recurring theme we've come to see throughout the rest of the story. it's presented very levelly. we've seen Bethel's efforts to change, we've seen Joon understandably not wanting to have anything to do with her, studiously examined that situation from each side. it all makes depressing sense, just as the scenes of abuse in Umineko do: this is how people act in these circumstances. 'well observed' you say.

yet it's not just going there to rub our faces in how much our protagonist sucks. because the whole point is to take it seriously, not wallow in self loathing. Grak doesn't kill himself and commits to living, Bethel and Valencia take the time to work at learning from their enormous mistakes. beating up on yourself is a sort of perverse defence mechanism. if you suck irredeemably you don't have to try.

the Fel Seed Incident is thus essentially a synecdoche (drink) of Joon's spiral and of the themes it's driving at, and thus a fitting capstone battle. it's almost annoyingly well put together.

but it's also rather self aware about this. Joon has by this point figured out that he's supposed to learn things from his adventures. the protagonists try to figure out what sort of narrative they're in and talk about postmodernism. so it's probably going to be about more than that.

self-improvement is the whole selling point of the rationalist ideology: the idea that if you follow Yudkowsky's teachings you can learn to put things in a mathematical perspective that will helpfully set you straight on matters from epistemology (Bayesianism solves everything) to ethics (utilitarianism is the answer, but you need to take into account a bunch of weird edge cases) to niche causes like cryonics and AI research. in fact, it's simply a cult. with all the shit that comes with, which means yes, rape and dead bodies.

many ideas in the story draw from the rationalist milieu. Joon's plan to 'win forever', usurp the DM and create a heaven that solves suffering, is of course an oblique spin the friendly AI singularity that Yudkowsky hopes to build. the soul magic arc, with its ideas of fiddling with motivations, is also about this. it seeps in in other ways, e.g. the idea raised now and then about keeping promises so other agents will trust you to keep promises is one of the founding elements of Roko's Basilisk. other elements, like the Second Empire, seem like an extrapolation of a society run by rat ideals.

I do not like the 'd' word. reading Eva and Madoka as 'genre deconstructions' obscures much more than it reveals (and also has very little to do with whatever Derrida was getting at). but it is honestly surprising to me that this is a celebrated ratfic reads like a splendid dismantling of rationalism.

the rape angle is relevant here. Yudkowsky's story Three Worlds Collide, a story about metaethics, rather infamously presents a future human society where rape is ubiquitous and considered a mild annoyance. it's like defamiliarising or whatever - don't you see, it's just our cultural assumptions! - and if you think it is going to do anything interesting, of course not, it's just Richard Stallman levels of pigheaded edgy obliviousness.

by contrast, the arc where Bethel rapes Joon... well, it feels almost like it's running down a checklist of how to write a realistic rape. Joon is raped by someone he knows well, he clearly says no, but when this is ignored, goes along with it in part because he's hyperconscious of the possibility of sudden violence; he knows something is up but blames himself because he was physically aroused and thinks it's just arbitrary cultural hangups and because he's a guy; he is reluctant to talk about it with his friends because he doesn't want his rapist to just be killed and she's important to their organisation. his attacker is a rape survivor herself in a complicated way, and she has spun a story where she was in the right that has to be very carefully unpicked by someone close to her and then she must take time to work through and change the whole way she relates to people, and there's some uncertainty in the others whether she's actually changed or just putting up a show of it. you could basically say it's cribbed from a "transformative justice" case study, but without the buzzwords.

and like, in a metafictional story like this one, situated in a milieu founded by Yudkowsky, that seems kind of like a statement. 'pay attention class, here's how to write a rape'. that might be uncharitable - i haven't seen how other rationalist writers handle it. (you can write a web novel without rape? ha, as if.)

Amaryllis in particular is the epitome of an idealised rationalist, effective altruist model. she's not emotionless, but manages her emotions clinically, according to scientific principles. she obsessively prioritises utilitarianism over her own feelings about a situation ('purchase fuzzies and utilons separately' is how it went i think?) and relentlessly builds power in order to remake the world according to her vision. she's hypercompetent as an administrator and has bizarrely mechanical ways of dealing with her own feelings. and it generally pays off and doesn't blow up in her face! (analogy: she's kind of who Baru Cormorant thinks she is, especially at the outset when she's most indoctrinated by Farrier.)

all of this seems to be very deliberate, given how Joon and the other characters react to her, but I'm scratching my head about the endgame here. I suppose, if each companion reflects some quality of Joon, we read Amaryllis and the slow burn romance as some kind of spin on gradually being enticed by the ideal of lesswrongism itself? but this story puts such an emphasis on self-understanding that there is no way it would uncritically present Amaryllis as an ideal. and with the Tuung essentially being put through what is painted as a hyperaccelerated residential school system that's been flagged up as an impending conflict a few times, and this story consistently choosing to steer into conflict rather than take an easy out to the point that the characters notice, it has to be going somewhere with this.

I'm honestly not sure how it's going to end, at this point. obviously Joon will find Arthur and confront the Dungeon Master, maybe he'll get to immanentise his personal eschaton. it would be too cheap for him to just go back to Earth with a bunch of lessons learned, especially with the IC meta discussions signaling hard against that. but it's the kind of excited expectant wait where I think I'll be surprised.

obviously I'm hooked. it's a kind of story it's very hard to share with anyone because it's 1.65 million words long, drawing from two milieus (D&D and LessWrong) that are very familiar to me but not necessarily anyone else I know, the premise on the face of it is kind of a hard sell, and as we've just discussed it kinda goes relentlessly for the hard stuff. all in all it's a Brynbait story. if you're tempted by what's above, I'd give it a shot.

aaand damn I guess I prematurely reviewed. I wasn't going to write until I'd finished the book, but I guess I'm writing now! I'll probably see the end after sleeping so expect a followup then.

also. he really did fuck the goddamn deer (tf was involved). and it wasn't a joke but meant something. fascinating thing, this book.

#worth the candle #novels #fiction

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itsdina1 · 5 months

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Deer. Diary.🤎 :the birthday blews 11/23/23

A golden birthday forsure. Is that sarcasm? Maybe. Oh where do we start?? So I turned 23, on the 23rd, in '23. I started my bday off at work….I currently, sadly, work at zon of the Am. And well, my coworkers helped start it off nicely. I talked to the newest line up in my crushery bullshit. His name? We’re going to call him lakeside. Full name? Lakeside espanol. (more info on him later.) We talked...For three hours as we worked....Didn’t even realize the time went that fast I swear. crazy part is, I was supposed to leave work the time he started talking to me, but that conversation made me stay. It was magical. Really. Shout out to that hunk of a man.🥰

Fast forward a few hours, my mom and sisters bust in my room singing happy birthday, they got me nails, and some money. $228 to be exact. We up babyeeee!📈 That is honestly where it gets sour okay. so after working an 11 hour shift, then turning around to sleep for three hours just to be woken up?? Ew. but no biggie...its my fucking bday ofc!

So I wake up and boom….no birthday posts? Well….two. Tay my so called best friend of 14years, and Jukie my oldest blood sister….but this is where it gets interesting. I got texts, but no bday posts? No money? No video? I made Tay a whole ass cinematic video video for her bday man. And what she do? Post three pictures. Three. line sisters aint post shit...well nise posted sum at nine o'clock...PM. nii didn't post a damn thing, but always getting whatever she asks for with me. Rih? didn't post a damn thing. gave me a dry ass happy birthday message, and yea. mind you I literally sent her money, gave her a whole paragraph text message, and a whole ass flood on the socials. I don't get the energy I give. ever. so I am about to start giving... ✨NOTHING✨

Which brings me to my next topic.

Its time to let female friendships go and just pop out with a man. ngl, let me get an apartment, and my life together, IMMA GET ME A MAN!! like I visibly see why women get a man, and just cut all their friends off. its crazy, but I get it now. I do. that's that frontal lobe development happening. Anyway next year. all that will happen for me...next year. Speaking it into exsistence.

Anyway I’m finna go on a dry blocking spree. Here’s to standing on bidness!

until next time y'all.

#birthday blues #fake friends #storytime #DEERDIARY #standing on business

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sarah-dipitous · 8 months

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Hellsite Nostalgia Tour 2023 Day 228

Angel Heart

“Angel Heart”

Plot Description: Castiel and the brothers try to help Claire Novak find her missing mother in Oklahoma but discover a troubling connection

Would I Survive the First Five Minutes??: I wouldn’t want to…I’m dealing with enough of my own vivid dreams that cause emotional pain when I wake up. I don’t need hers too

Does a djin have her?? But it’s even worse because she just keeps waking up and going back to the beginning of the dream

Poor Claire 😭😭

Oh, she’s soooooooooo thrilled to see Dean there 🙃

Eventually Cas probably should let go of Claire and the responsibility he feels towards her. I get that she definitely needs SOMEONE looking out for her and while her mom’s MIA and Cas is now fully inhabiting the to scale replica of Jimmy Novak’s body, it’s good that she can have him, but Dean’s right. He is a CONSTANT reminder of someone she’s lost

I’m not sure that the way Sam is speaking to Claire is 100% appropriate for how near stranger in his 30s should speak to a teenage girl but…but they know each other just enough that when she sasses him, he’s gonna shut that down. He asked if she did all this looking for clues and traveling on her own (mostly hitchhiking) and whatnot just to tell off her mom. And when she sarcastically asked him if he always got along with his mom, he flat out told her that he never got the chance because she died when he was a baby

But he genuinely wants to help her do the work to find her mom. Cas and Dean want to find Amelia for her, Sam wants her to have the skills to do it herself

Ok…probably not a djin. But what IS this supposed faith healer?

It’s Claire’s birthday?? And Cas got her a Grumpy Cat plush from”the Hot Topical.” He’s so awkward and sweet 😭😭 (also I have that plush)

Dean’s gotta babysit Claire lmaooooooo

Man, now I’M conflicted. Sam says he shouldn’t leave Claire alone when this is done because she’s family…sort of. And she just shouldn’t be alone

Every moment of Dean and Claire is chef kiss. They HATE each other but are forced to spend time together…and are, for some reason, playing miniature golf now

So wait…if we’re dealing with another rogue angel on Earth…but potentially a high ranking one, who is it? (I’m just figuring that an angel SWORD would be given to higher ranking angels instead of an angel BLADE)

Dean, are you…you really are going to give that freshly 18 year old girl a GUN

It’s kind of amazing what differences in make up can do to a person. They did a really good job with the differences between dream Amelia and Amelia in reality……..hey, why are there so many characters named Amy or Amelia in this show??

So tell me how these angels started feeding on human souls though. They were watcher angels, put on Earth to protect humanity…I’m just saying Aziraphale would NEVER.

It’s not your fault, Amelia. You came here for help. You came to piece your family back together, and you were deceived.

No. Nooooooo, she didn’t deserve that. And Claire needed her!!!

How come Jimmy and Amelia get to be in heaven together but everyone else seemingly have their own separate heavens?? Why wasn’t Bobby reunited with his wife in heaven?? That episode wasn’t even that long ago!!

Honestly, leaving her with Jody is probably a good idea. I bet she and Alex could definitely get along

She kept the Grumpy Caaaaaaaaaat 😭😭😭 from the Hot Topical 😭😭😭😭😭

I’m glad she sees them all in a different light now

#hellsite nostalgia tour 2023

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mikesavagenewcanaan · 1 year

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Mike Savage New Canaan How to Develop a Muscle Mass Auto Engine

Being as just how I have actually been on the detailed tear down short articles, and there beginning to get simply a little bit old, I believe I'll simply yammer regarding another topic that is near and also dear to my heart, and also most other real muscle vehicle individuals.

This certainly is like all of the remainder of the actions when building a muscular tissue car, you require to very first beginning by thinking about what it is you desire the engine to do. Do you desire an excellent reliable every day driver, or a race cars and truck, since there is a big distinction in between the two engines.

Mike Savage New Canaan

There are three or four significant points that make the greatest difference in efficiency, and also they would be, a cam, heads, as well as carburetion. After these the next would be birthed as well as stroke, yet the most significant gain in performance will certainly come from webcam as well as heads.

You need to really assume this one out, what do you want to do with the cars and truck, if you develop a full blast race engine, it will certainly not be great on the road regarding drive ability, given that race engines are suggested to race, as well as not to drive on a daily basis.

If you wish to do a little of both, you can develop a street/strip engine, and get the very best of both globes, yet do not expect to head to the track and hammer all of the race autos. Stay with a street category, like professional street, now that I have actually had my tirade, I'll in a really short mansion explain exactly how the performance upgrades will certainly influence your vehicle.

Most importantly you'll intend to ensure that nonetheless you construct your engine, that you do it with matching parts, simply put, match your heads, consumption, and cam completely, every one of the manufactures will certainly be glad to assist you with this.

The suggestion is this, if your building a daily chauffeur, you'll need excellent power from still to about 3,000 rpm, so you 'd wish to acquire get rid of a power band from 1,500 - 3,000 rpm, so you would certainly check out the specs on the camera, heads, and also consumption manifold that you intend to get. Next, match them as near to this variety as feasible.

If your looking for something a little bit extra high performance, you would certainly intend to step up to a web cam that will supply good power from about 2800 - 6200 rpm. This would be a mid level efficiency camera, as well as still aright on the road, however you would certainly shed a little your low end power as well as torque.

Mike Savage New Canaan

If you recognize what I'm saying right here, it is just this, a performance cam typically will do it finest operate in the mid rpm variety. This particular cam profile would have.480 lift on both the consumption, and also exhaust shutoffs, and also a period of 228 @ 50 thousandths lift, this certain camera is built by crane web cams.

This is truly near to the specifications of the off road unique camera that was readily available for the 1969 Z/28 camaro, the very same cam that would certainly have included the crossram complete car, and also is still a street able webcam, but would start to lean even more to the race side of points, and lees to the day-to-day chauffeur side.

Currently to compare to this camera shaft, Chevrolet made use of a collection of camel back heads, which had 2.02 inch consumption valves and 1.60 exhaust valves, at the time this was a true high performance head, and also once more it requires to match to the camera, as well as consumption manifold.

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badlucksav · 1 year

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I posted 1,970 times in 2022

207 posts created (11%)

1,763 posts reblogged (89%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@stardust948

@princessrhcenyra

@barelyaware

@pixievivi

@orangepanic

I tagged 1,925 of my posts in 2022

Only 2% of my posts had no tags

#sav’s stockpile - 1,034 posts

#atla - 496 posts

#avatar the last airbender - 361 posts

#zuko - 228 posts

#off topic - 209 posts

#zutara - 197 posts

#katara - 161 posts

#avatar - 157 posts

#tlok - 127 posts

#the 100 - 105 posts

Longest Tag: 136 characters

#yknow when you thought you've sort of had it together and then one thing happens and it all falls apart and it turns out you were barely

My Top Posts in 2022:

Ty Lee: *is visibly upset*

Azula: Ty Lee, what happened? I haven’t seen you like this since you found out Candyland wasn’t an actual country.

186 notes - Posted January 22, 2022

A gift for @neurologicaldamage. Because who doesn’t love Zutara in the South Pole? 🥰

Happy New Year. I hope 2021 was a good year, and that 2022 is even better.

197 notes - Posted January 1, 2022

These two can’t ever just spar, can they? 😏

Drawn for this shiny new blog for a Zutara event. Be sure to check it out!

Image ID below cut

[image ID: image shows Zuko and Katara laying on the ground after a sparring match. Katara lays on her back wearing her wraps and her necklace with one hand around Zuko’s neck as she looks up at him. Zuko is laying on his stomach above her, looking down at her. He has two gold armbands around his biceps and he’s shirtless. He has his shaggy season 3 hair. The background shows a purple sunset with a little bit of pink and yellow, with pink clouds and black trees. End image ID]

233 notes - Posted January 8, 2022

Drawn for the 2022 @zkbigbang. I created this piece for the fic, “Strike A Match”. I really enjoyed working with the team on this project and watching the author’s vision come to life. It’s been a while since I’ve drawn these two, and it felt great to get back to it. Be sure to check out the fic!

265 notes - Posted September 9, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

If you support the Roe v Wade overturn in any way shape or form, kindly unfollow me and then go fuck yourself.

943 notes - Posted June 26, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

#tumblr2022 #year in review #my 2022 tumblr year in review #your tumblr year in review

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bookaddict24-7 · 2 years

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I said at the beginning of the year that I would share my reviews more on my blog instead of just on Instagram and Goodreads. I’ve been reading a lot so far this year, so my reviews will be delayed on here. I upped it to 10 reviews per post so I can do most of the reviews before the end of the year!

Friend me on Goodreads here to read my reviews in real-time!

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227. Hunt for Jade Dragon by Richard Paul Evans--⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Re-read in 2021! Michael had some out of character moments in this book, but it only served to remind me how young he is. There were some touching moments and also some moments where I couldn’t wait for the villain to be taken down. It’s interesting how they approached the setting for this one, but there were some slightly problematic comments made.

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228. Insomnia by Stephen King--⭐️⭐️

Okay, here's the thing: The audiobook didn't help the experience. The music was random and awful, but I'll admit it added to the creepy atmosphere. The story, however, was super weird. I know this is not saying much because King can really get creative with the weirdness, but this was like...so weird that I would zone out because I just wanted it to end. Of the few books I've read by him, this is my least favourite. I did appreciate the commentary on some of the topics explored, but the main story was just so odd. I did like the epilogue, though. I think it tied it all up nicely. I also loved the easter eggs for his other books, especially since the book is set in a town he's often used in his stories. If you're reading his stuff, know that this one is super random and chaotic. But it could still be someone else's favourite!

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229. Small Favor by Jim Butcher--⭐️⭐️⭐️

This one was just OK. It wasn't my least favourite so far, but it was down there. I think I was just bored for a bit and it lacked that connecting factor I've felt while listening to the other books. Hopefully I'll like book 11 more!

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230. The Grim Grotto by Lemony Snicket--⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I really liked this one! I've been seeing these kids grow up over the last few books and as the story gets closer to the ending, I can see where the changes are coming in. The three siblings have been through a lot, but they've also all grown together! I think this one also showed the importance of learning that there is a grey area when it comes to some people. There is obviously good and bad, but there's always the in between that makes you question that black and white mentality. Also, it's jarring seeing the two older siblings get old enough to start to have quasi-love interests (which is another reminder that these kids are growing up.)

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231. The Guncle by Steven Rowley--⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I went into this one with a mix of excitement and trepidation. One of my friends had read it and said that it was just OKAY. So, zero expectations? Yeah, that was me. But I was so surprised by how much I enjoyed this one! The little kids completely stole my heart and the MC's character growth and emotional journal really pulled at my heartstrings. I just wanted to give them all a hug, especially after everything they had gone through. He also sounded like such a fun uncle who had a lot of wise, although quirky, advice to give. I think I am taking one star off because there were certain things that were a little too convenient, and also it felt like there wasn't a very big...momentous event. I will be the first to admit that the climax or the approaching climax of a story usually gives me a ton of anxiety (which I felt whenever the MC's horrible sister came in), but I was expecting a bit...more? I'm happy with what I got, but I felt it was too easy. Overall, this gave me Raising Helen vibes but with a Guncle, and I really, really enjoyed it! I'd definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a heartfelt story about love, grief, family, and some surprisingly sage advice about life.

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232. It Had to be You by Gergia Clark--⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

TW: Cheating, Transphobia This book called me single in so many ways...and I was okay with that. I was really close to DNFing this book because of how the two main characters connected. I was wary and disliked that they were essentially thrust together after unfortunate circumstances, so I was really close to pulling the DNF trigger. BUT I am so glad I didn't. I'm glad I went in with low expectations and just gave it a try. I read a few reviews when I was trying to make my decision and saw a lot of comparisons to films like Love Actually and Valentine's Day and I agree, especially the end where all of the climaxes were happening in the story (Not a pun). I found myself rooting for these couples and hoping that each of them had their happy ever afters. I also felt anger for those who were wronged, and I'll admit, I cried a couple of times. I listened to the audiobook and it was a full cast, so that helped with the unique narrative style, but I can totally understand why it might feel overwhelming if you're reading a physical copy! This book was an experience and it was just so...wholesome. I smiled, I laughed, I giggled, and felt all sorts of emotions. I'm a hopeless romantic, so I'm really happy that I gave it a shot!

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233. Klara & the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro--⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I read this one as part of a book club! One of the things I've been loving about being a part of a book club is how I'm being challenged to read books outside of the genres I usually pick up. This book, in particular, is something I might have never picked up if not for the book club! I really enjoyed Klara's story and while I had a feeling that it would break my heart, I continued on knowing that this story had so much more to offer than just tragedy. I like to think that this story was giving me an allegory regarding pollution--both physical and metaphorical; both natural and sociological. There is a scene (early in the story) where we are introduced to a machine that pollutes the sky (as it is described), but then we are introduced to the concept of children being "lifted" and I like to believe that this is society's pollution of wanting to better themselves, even if it means either destroying the host or the futures of the children who aren't changed (lifted). Of course, this is all me theorizing because even if I'm completely off base, I think there was too much importance placed on the sun and pollution for them not to mean more than what is on the page. There's a certain innocence to Klara that was both endearing and frustrating. Some of the characters were just complete jerks to her and I think it can easily be attributed to that fear of something different. To be honest, I also read this shortly after Elon Musk made his announcement about his self-learning chipped AIs, so that knowledge added a whole new layer to this experience (for me). I think knowing that Klara's world may not be that different from ours ten years from now makes this book both even sadder and more terrifying. Overall, it was interesting to see what the world looked like through the eyes of a relatively innocent AI. We get to see unbiased looks into the lives of the people around Klara's owners and we also get to observe with her. Although as a human, I can't help but feel strong emotions towards those who treated Klara badly, I got to also see things from her naive and non-judgmental perspective. For example, I disliked the child who owned Klara for how she was with those who mattered to her and Klara herself, but Klara was so dedicated and built to show her dedication that she would look at a situation logically and read what was happening rather than using judgment and emotions. I'd recommend this for those who want a story that features a surprisingly calming narrative (despite the sometimes chaotic emotions of those around Klara), and a story that follows an AI who is simply there to add company to her owners' lives.

___

234. Bittersweet by Sarina Bowen--⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

The beginning took me a bit to get into, but once the two characters reconnected, I was gone. That tension, those spicy scenes, and the classic Bowen touch made this book impossible to put down. The enemies to lovers trope was also great, because I am complete trash for that trope. One of the things I love about this book, also, is the lack of prolonged miscommunication tropes--characters actually communicate and if something goes wrong, they talk it out--like adults! No anxiety needed here while I read, thanks. Anyway, this was great and sexy and so, so good. Also, *cough*, have you seen that cover? ___

235. Summoned to Thirteenth Grave by Darynda Jones--⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I'm giving this one my highest rating both because it's the last one (oh my gosh, I made it!), and because it had some seriously heartwarming moments! But also, whoa to the revelations that happened!! I wasn't expecting those, which shows me that even after 13 books, this author still kept the series fun and fresh!

I'm going to start Jones' next series hopefully soon (depending on the library wait time), and I have my theories about that series...especially since a big part of this series was left completely wide open.👀👀👀 I can't wait to read more of the same humour and the quirky but fun characters! This series was a ride and I'm sad to see it end. On to the next one! ____

236. What Strange Paradise by Omar El Akkad--⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I listened to this as an audiobook. I will say that this is the kind of audiobook that you have to go back at certain points and re-listen because it's so easy to miss some of the smaller details. I'm glad I went back the few times I did because this story is completely worth it! We are introduced to two narratives and timelines--the present, where our MCs meet and begin their escape from the soldiers and officers hunting them down, and the doomed past where you already know what the fate of the people are based on the beginning of the book. The fact that we already have an idea of what is going to happen is not only absolutely heartbreaking, but it also piques one's morbid curiosity because you still have that small hope that this story will end differently. And that ending. Wow. That ending had me thinking and questioning a lot of what I'd just read--but it could also be an example of how unfortunately common the situation is. One thing I noticed in other reviews that I want to mention here (because I HAD to look it up after that conclusion) is the importance of seeing how both narratives follow the possible experiences a refugee might encounter. The fear and hope that might envelope them on their way to a new life, and the constant fear and hope of actually getting to stay in the new country they've arrived at. There's also this concept of how the new foreign world is put on a pedestal in comparison to how it actually is. How well you speak english and the way one's skin looks also is shown to be a big topic--as it should be. I remember hearing about family friends who left Cuba with the idea that living in North America would give them a better life, until they find themselves working multiple jobs because their degrees or past work experience sometimes doesn't apply in their new countries. My mother often comments on her own English and how people might not understand her when she talks, but refuses to believe me when I tell her that she's fine. I love that this book touches on these topics because they're often limited to the communities who actively live as either refugees or immigrants. If you want a story that explores the refugee crisis and how certain people are when faced with it, you might want to pick this one up. I've been trying to read more books about immigration and refugee stories and this one was definitely one of the more unforgettable ones. You might also want to end up punching some characters, but also admiring how others truly are when facing certain situations. Highly, highly recommend!

___

237. Lord of Misrule by Rachel Caine--⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I will admit I liked this one a lot more than the past ones! I've contemplated not finishing this series, but I've had these books on my shelf for forever and well, the library has the audiobooks! SO, yeah.

Anyway, I liked this one more because Shane isn't a raging asshole and I liked the idea that things are changing and becoming more exciting in this town. Also, that ending has me asking questions! Most important of them all: imagine when these books were first coming out and each book finished in a way that made you think the next book was coming out the following week. ___

Have you read any of these? Would you recommend them?

___

Happy reading!

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peachyunjinnie · 4 years

Text

— 03. ❝be quiet❞ bgc ― m.

― summary: bang chan is the biggest fuckboy on your school. you end up being his tutor and things get very heated during their first lesson.

chan/reader | fuckboy!chan | smut | 1.3k ↬ content warnings: daddy kink, teasing, orgasm denial, breath play, corruption kink and praise kink.

a/n : i hope you enjoy it.

→ blogs masterlist

→ Be Quiet Pt. I → Be Quiet Pt. II

“He has been doing better?” I asked perplex from the unexpected news from Mrs. Climdriff. Christopher in fact has gotten better in his history class.

“So, you two have been doing these tutor lessons for now 2 weeks and his test was...flawless. All points achieved and even the bonus question. What is your secret?” She asked and my cheeks started to get the darkest shade of red, if she knew what happened to get these points.

“O-Oh, uhm I think I just had luck with him?” She stared into my eyes, trying to squeeze the truth out of me. I quickly looked to the ground to not get any kind of information out. She stopped and just sighed out loud.

“What I wanted to ask you is that he still needs your help in History, his class will start in 6 minutes. In room 228. You are already dismissed from your next class.” She still seemed like the first time. Completely out of breath and stressed.

My thoughts were still on the first lesson and the other lessons. The library was all ours, not one person disturbing us. I bit my lip, remembering every touch, every kiss of his. She was still observing me and waited for my reply.

“Okay, I will do it.” I answered not really knowing if I should do it, but what could go wrong? In classroom full of his classmates, he would never ever try to do anything.

With the smile she had put on, I stood up and have gotten out. As I was walking to the classroom, I had my thoughts on all of the lessons we already had. The times we were actually studying or even looking at the book. I wondered how he managed to get a better grade, with his disgust in being at the library every single day for now 2 weeks. It didn’t add up to me. I spot 228 and knocked on. Mr. Porter opened the door and greeted me, what I noticed is the whole classroom is empty. I remembered the 10 minute break that was in between the lessons.

“Hello...?” He asked, smiling at me.

“Mrs. Climdriff sent me to-”

“Ah, You have to be Christopher’s tutor... I planned to watch a documentation today. As for the subject of the history of the modern world and Australia. Maybe you can just sit next to Christopher and write some notes with him.” As he was explaining the room started to fill and students started to sit down. Some familiar faces greeting me and smiling at me, but at the one face that was smirking at me my heartbeat increased drastically.

Mr. Porter walked up to the light switch, dimming the brightness and pulled down the blinds. The movie title appeared as the class started to get quieter. Christopher was starring at me with the most intense look he has ever given me. I side-eyed him but went out to get my notebook and pen out, trying my best to get the most information out of this movie. The narrators voice explained about the topic, the first notes getting on the book.

Then I felt his rough and big hand on my thigh, feeling the fingers slowly caressing my soft flesh. I jumped up a little and he smiled at my shock. Fortunately Christopher was seated in the last row, so no one could have any eye on me or the actions he was doing.

“Stop being so tense or you will not let you cum.” He came down to my ear and whispered. His hand slid up my thighs with his fingers creeping to my inner thigh. Making me shiver and close my mouth with my hand to not let out any kind of sound. I had to pull myself together not to make a sound. Not a groan, not a whimper, not a loud gasp to show what he was doing down there.

"Aw, are you getting wet?" He smiled like nothing was wrong, his dimples sticking out and his jawline was harder than usual.

“N-Not even, you will have to try harder than t-that.”His hand speeded up a little and wandered up quickly. My underwear was wet and my clit was pulsating. His middle finger crept into me and I could not pull myself together anymore. Chan saw my current state of desperation and stood up to get to Mr. Porter, I was scared of what will happen now and wiggled into my seat.

Chan was talking to him with a little time and Mr. Porter was side eyeing me from across the classroom. He smiled and nodded to Chan. He walked up to me and dragged me out of my chair. I couldn’t say or ask anything before he opened the door.

“I needed to get you out of there, I told him that you feel sick and that you need some fresh air.”

“W-Why? I am completely fine.”

“Because I have to be inside you,right now.”

He pulled me into the boys' toilet and pushed me into the disabled toilet. Throwing me against the wall and pressing my back to it. I could not tell you how wet I was at this point of teasing he has been doing to me and I needed to him.

“Do you think you deserve it?” He asked and snuggled his nose against my cheek, giving my body a huge shiver running up and down. How even could I reply to such a question? If I say yes, he will probably do anything but what I mostly need and leave me as horny as I was. If said no then he would do the same as well.

“Y-Yes, Daddy.” I whispered out, his legs keeping my thighs apart and my walls clenching around nothing. I could not let my moans trapped in me anymore and let all of the sounds out to show him how desperate and needy i was right now.

“If you make one single sound, I will stuff your fucking mouth.” Chan gave me a sly smile and held my face in his firm grip. His hard eyes stared at me in the most exhilarating way possible. I had to pull myself together when Chan turned me around and with a simple movement brought my face to the wall. His long fingers found themselves under my school skirt and tore it off to reveal my panties.

He was hectic and left no time to rethink anything, head empty expect for the high and frustrating sex-drive that will one day be the death of me. He ripped my undies apart and with the torn apart fabric, he chuckled at my flinch of the sudden loud sound.

He was fumbling around his belt. He finally opened his zipper and positioned himself in front of me. His hands stuck on my hips and sinking in my flesh, instantly leaving harsh and vibrant marks. He filled me up and I was glad that he held me up because of my weak knees completely giving up on me. My mouth hung open with my hands covering them to not let any moans out.

"Ah fuck, how can you still be so fucking tight?" He groaned out. I had to push myself away from the painfully sweet sensation of him filling me up completely and harshly.

"Ngh- Fu-Fuck!" I squealed out in a long stretched out moan. His tip reaching a place where I never knew that ever existed. He rolled his hips into my throbbing wetness and pulled my hair to his back.

He thrusted hard into me and the sound of skin clapping was louder than ever before through the echo of the bathroom. I clenched around him and after the small amount of time I could feel my orgasm creeping up faster and faster. The clenching made Chan groan sensually, his hand pulling the chunks of hair even harder.

"Will you cum?" He chuckled and threw his head back, lost himself in the pleasure. The building up of my orgasm was too much mixed with his hand on my hip and the other on my throat.

"Y-Yes, Dad-Daddy." I felt my whole body shake and my mouth opening my widely to let out my moans, but his hand quickly covered my mouth and he spilled himself inside of me, feeling his seeds spreading out and feeling the twitching got me orgasm harder and longer than ever before. I couldn't help but notice the wetness and shortly after I heard Chan chuckle.

"You squirted...Woah." He was in disbelief and admiration. I couldn't react to it completely worn out and tired of this amount of pounding and pleasure.

"I'll make you do that again."

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