#so thinking about all the memories of playing that instrument when things were still good...... that's also an honour for me to hold onto.

[nc-vb]

I was wondering why Apep's boss theme sounded so familiar, like I was having heavy nostalgia trying to figure it out, but it reminds me of something from Kingdom Hearts, which I haven't played in so, so long!! Like especially the parts that involve the flute and clarinet??

omg y'all didn't know but I used to play the clarinet in middle school and grade nine, and we had to put on a little performance once, and I played one of the OSTs from the second game ksdjfsldgslk thinking about it kinda gets me cringy BUT it's a core memory where the aftermath of the performance unfortunately made me not want to play it anymore......... it's such a shame.

#ahhhhhh i was REALLY good at playing the clarinet. and the piano. i really hate myself for giving them both up. #guitar? not so much. i hated playing the guitar. #i have a clarinet saved into my amazon wishlist so i can buy one again bc i would love to relearn it. #ahhh yknow i always say how boring and mundane my life has always been?? #at least that's what its always felt like from my perspective; i don't really change my routine and maybe that's why #BUT i have actually been blessed enough to experience SO MUCH in my life around all the bad things? #and when i was a teenager i think i really took that for granted. especially when it came to my health. #the fact that i dropped the clarinet mid-grade nine ended up being that awful culmination of the bad things i had to experience #but in hindsight i think if i continued to force myself to play it and/or the piano i would've ended up hating both of them. #my love for either won't ever go away nor will it decrease anymore (which i'm also grateful for) #and hopefully one day i WILL get back into the clarinet #but i'm grown enough now to put certain things into perspective that i can control the bad things that can happen to me or my health #so thinking about all the memories of playing that instrument when things were still good...... that's also an honour for me to hold onto. #now my favourite game has so many songs that has the clarinet in it and that really makes me so happy. #hahaha idk if this was all just random rambling but....... it made me happy to talk about and reminisce on. #:) #✦ nc vb.

[lilisettean]

Unspoken Rivalry | Zayne/Reader + Implied!Caleb/Reader

About: Ever since that incident, you rarely mentioned Caleb to anyone. So when you suddenly brought him up while in the fitting room with Zayne, his curiosity was piqued, albeit unwillingly.

Pairings: Zayne/Reader, Implied!Caleb/Reader

Notes: Sorry for repost and not smut haha. Decided to put all my L&DS writings here on this sideblog instead of my main blog because I didn't want to muddle things up. Anyway got this idea when Zayne was surprised at MC knowing how to tie a tie and I was like, HMMM maybe because she had practice with Caleb??? But nope the game went the other way.

AO3: Read here!

Warning: Implied love triangle.

“I’m shocked. I didn’t expect you to be good at tying a tie.”

You inspected the black tie you had selected for Zayne for a moment, nodding in approval at your own tastes. 

“Why, of course.” You said with a smile, glancing at him before directing him to face the full length mirror before you two. “I had a lot of practice.”

“Practice?”

“Caleb.” Zayne raised his eyebrows at the sudden mention of that name; your mutual childhood friend who had sadly passed away months prior. You rarely mentioned him nowadays, so to hear his name slip past your lips without anything prompting was a surprise.

“I… I used to do his tie for him before we went to school.” You whispered, fond memories of you tying his school tie while you complained about him not doing it himself surfaced. It felt like it was just yesterday when you complained about his odd request of making you do this every school day morning, but now… 

“I’m sure he’s capable of doing it himself.” Zayne remarked, careful with his choice of words. He eyed you through the mirror, pointedly ignoring the sting of jealousy that made itself known when he saw you smiled wistfully.

You shook your head and looked ahead, eyes unseeing and absorbed in those innocent, carefree days where everything was still normal. “He said it’s for good luck.” You explained, missing the light bemused snort beside you. “He would whine about not having the goddess of luck’s blessing if I didn’t.” 

‘That could’ve been you in his place.’ A traitorous part of him mumbled, and Zayne promptly shoved that thought back to the corners of his mind. But it ceased to be silenced. ‘That should’ve been you. But you chose to distance yourself.’ 

‘It was for her sake.’ 

‘But was it worth it? Missing precious time with her? Being replaced by someone else?’ That voice hissed, reminding him of the reluctant distance he had placed between him and you. He told himself that it was necessary for him to focus on his studies if he wanted to take care of you in the future, and that indulging in your presence then would only hinder his carefully laid plans. ‘You were the perfect match for her and yet you–’ 

Opting not to let his darker, less desirable thoughts taunt him, Zayne focused on you instead, placing a hand behind the small of your back and brought you before the mirror. 

“Do you think we still match?” He asked, his hushed question barely over the calming instrumentals that the shop you were in chose to play. If it weren’t for him being right next to you, you would’ve missed his question entirely.

You scrutinized his outfit through the mirror, and smiled. “I think we do.” 

“Good.” Zayne let out a breath he unconsciously held back. He stared at his reflection once more, wondering. Would he have had the same treatment if he had stayed?

If Caleb was still the same boy he had met all those years ago, he would’ve hated you extending the same care towards Zayne himself. He remembered being at the receiving end of Caleb’s piercing gaze multiple times when they were still together, especially when you had looked to Zayne instead of him for certain matters.

‘The past matters naught. What’s important is now and the future.’ He thought as he turned his focus towards you, silencing the doubts of you favoring Caleb over him.

“Will you tie my tie for me on that day then?” He asked, the corners of his lip threatening to twitch upward when you stared at him, perplexed.

“Do you need the goddess of luck’s blessing as well?” You joked in response, only to sigh when you realized he was serious. “Don’t tease me, Zayne. Why would you need me to do it anyway?”

“For luck.”

“Why would you need luck of all things? It’s just a banquet!”

“You never know.” Zayne parroted the words you said this morning. You sighed, wondering if he lied about only studying and joined a debate club when he was still in school.

“Fine! I don’t understand why you and Caleb want me to tie it when you two could do it better than me.” A small smile appeared on his face as you grumbled, preparing to change out of the outfit he had picked out for you.

‘You will understand eventually.’ He thought as a staff member approached him with his card and receipt in hand, thanking him for his patronage. 

‘For what man wouldn’t want their goddess' attention?’

#love and deep space #love and deepspace #love and deepspace zayne x reader #love and deepspace caleb x reader #i am so down for a love triangle or ot3 between them tbh #just give me caleb already dammit...

[coneyislandbabey]

so hot you're hurting my feelings. -> w.rojas

WARNINGS: profanities, steamy scenes like. maybe 16+ but not actual smut

SYNOPSIS: your seemingly innocuous wardrobe choice makes Warren lose his mind. word count: 1,717

NOTES: written for this request. Sorry it’s been so long! Also, thank you guys for over 300 followers 🫶

You knew what you were doing. 

You had to, Warren thought, as you walked into the room wearing that. You walked into the green room shortly before the show wearing a matching set: a blue suede vest with daisies lining the front, and the tiniest pair of matching shorts, white boots the exact shade of the daisies hugging your legs and coming to a stop shortly before your knees. Christ, there wasn’t even a button on those shorts, just a thin brown cord lacing up the front. You certainly hadn’t been wearing that at soundcheck, he would have fucking noticed. 

You slung the strap of your bass around your torso, the pearly white body of the instrument perfectly matching your getup, tossing your hair over your shoulder as you chatted idly with Daisy on the other side of the room. Warren crossed his arms over his chest, trying to pry his eyes from the way your outfit perfectly hugged each one of your curves, to no avail. He knew someone was bound to catch onto his staring if he didn’t get himself under control, but he couldn’t help himself. All he could think about was his fingers tugging at the laces on your shorts, roughly undoing the neat little bow, pulling them loose– 

He shook his head, trying to physically rid himself of the thoughts. The two of you had been messing around on the down low for quite a while, miraculously having been able to keep it from the prying eyes of your bandmates the whole time. You weren’t dating– not that Warren was opposed to the idea, but neither of you seemed to be in a rush to complicate things, even if it was for the better. You both felt like you had all the time in the world. Plus, the thrill of sneaking around definitely made the sex better. And yet, Warren was about three seconds away from tossing caution to the wind and tackling you to the floor right then and there, in front of everybody. 

As if you could read his mind, could feel how worked up he was getting without even touching you, you turned to look at him from across the room, eyes dragging up and down his body before tossing a lazy wink his way and turning back to your conversation with Daisy. Fuck, you were going to be the death of him. He felt a little dizzy, his vision tunneling until all he could focus on was you. 

He was pulled out of his trance by the sudden flurry of movement around the room: it was time to go on stage. No fucking way was he going to have to sit there and play a whole show with you standing in front of his drumkit the whole time looking like the hottest woman who has ever lived. There was a solid chance, he thought, that he would drop dead on stage. Or stop playing in the middle of a song to start making out with you in front of thousands of people. On some deeper level, he was aware of just how ridiculous it was that he couldn’t get a grip, but was it really his fault that you drove him so crazy? All rational thoughts flew right out the window every time he saw you. 

It was a good thing that he had all the songs down to muscle memory, because despite his best efforts, he was distracted throughout the entire show. Truthfully, he was always distracted during shows. His eyes inevitably always found you playing your bass just a few feet in front of him, getting lost in the hypnotizing way you and your instrument became one as you played. Even if you two weren’t a thing, he was sure his eyes would still be drawn to you– you gave Daisy and Billy a run for their money when it came to the spotlight, that’s how magnetic your stage presence was. Every little facet of your magnetic presence was dialed up to a hundred for Warren, sitting through the entire setlist and the encore almost unbearable. 

Excruciating eons passed before the show ended, but finally the encore was finished, the whole band standing in a line at the front of the stage to bow and say goodbye to the audience. You were on the other side of the line up, and it took everything in Warren’s power to look forward at the audience, to smile at them and wave goodbye and keep up his usual onstage energy, feigning his usual nonchalance as he walked off stage with everybody else. 

But as soon as he was out of sight of the audience, his eyes sought you in the dim chaos backstage. He couldn’t think about anything besides you in his arms, you looking at him, you in his bed. After a few seconds of frantic searching, he found you alone in a secluded corner, tucking your bass away in its case. He beelined for you, warm hands on your waist as soon as you were in reach, not caring about who could possibly see. You turned in surprise at the physical contact, questioning look receding when you saw it was Warren. Any words you could have said died in your throat when you clocked his dark eyes, pupils blown wide and hungry. 

“Warren,” you greeted, voice pitched low and a little breathy after the exertion of the show, and fuck, god, you had to know what you were doing to him. 

“I need you,” he said, bringing his mouth close to your ear, the hunger you saw in his eyes a barely-constrained need straining in his voice. “Right fucking now.” 

A shiver ran through you at the tone of his voice paired with his intense gaze, pinning you right where you stood. You had half a mind to look around to see if anybody was around to witness the interaction, but you only entertained the thought briefly. You gave the barest nod of your head, and that was all Warren needed to grab your wrist and pull you along behind him. Warren walked on, peering into various doorways until he found an empty room to pull you inside of. It was a storage closet of some sort, filled with cardboard boxes and extra guitar amps and other detritus, a single dusty light bulb swinging overhead. Warren tugged you inside, the force of it causing you to stumble a bit, closing and locking the door behind you. 

In a fraction of a second he was on you, wide, calloused hands warm on the exposed skin of your stomach, mouth sucking a hickey into the supple skin where your jaw meets your neck. You let out a gasp at the sensation, hands immediately going to tangle in his hair. 

“Warren,” you managed, letting out a breathy chuckle. “What has gotten into you tonight?” 

“You’re fucking driving me crazy in this little outfit,” he murmured against your skin. His hands slid against your skin, dipping below the waistband of your shorts for emphasis. 

“Funny,” you hummed, fingers skating lightly down the back of his neck causing him to shiver. “That’s exactly why I bought it.” 

“You’re evil,” Warren laughed, though the sound was almost pained. He swallowed up whatever reply you had, grabbing your chin and angling your face to his, dragging you into a kiss. You fisted one hand into the material of the back of his vest, your other palm flat against the bare, sweaty skin of his chest. Warren kissed like a starving man, like he would have died if he’d gone one more second without his lips on yours. 

Warren broke away only when in desperate need of air, resting his forehead against yours and panting as he turned his attention to the laced up front of your shorts. His fingers fumbled with the bow, pulling at the ends until it came loose, working his deft digits into each section of the criss-crossed cord, pulling it loose. 

“Are we seriously doing this here?” you asked, watching his enthusiasm with your brows raised in amusement. “Not that I’m complaining, loverboy, but you’re like a man possessed.” 

“When I said I needed you right fucking now, I meant it,” Warren said, tugging at your shorts. You knew just how serious he was by his total lack of pet names for you; usually he couldn’t get a sentence out without using one when talking to you. You took a step back, half sitting on a large amp behind you to make it easier for him to pull your shorts down your legs. 

Warren reattached his lips to your neck, his fingers slipping under the waistband of your underwear, skimming across the skin of your hips and the lowest bit of your stomach. The need was still there, but he had slowed down ever so slightly, needing to enjoy you, to savor you. 

“Warren, please,” you rasped out, growing impatient. “Get to it, please.” He snickered, and you could feel him smirking against your skin. Just as he moved to pull your underwear down your legs, the closet door knob rattled violently. 

“Why the fuck is this locked?” A muffled voice yelled, pissed off, on the other side of the door. A second later, you could hear heavy footsteps heading back down the hall. Your head whipped back to Warren, and you couldn’t help but burst into laughter at the wide-eyed, kid-caught-with-his-hand-in-the-cookie-jar expression adorning his face. 

“Aw, baby,” you said, rubbing your thumb against the skin of his cheek. “Universe is not on your side tonight.” 

He groaned, dropping his head to your shoulder. You laughed, patting the side of his head as you reached down with one hand to pull your shorts back up. Once they were around your hips, Warren helped to tighten the laces once again, tying the cord in a neat bow. 

“Okay, new plan, mama,” he started, once you were fully dressed once again. “We sneak out of this fucking place and get back to the hotel in record fucking time.” 

“Sounds good,” you grinned, this time being the one to grab him by the wrist and head toward the door.  “Great, ‘cause I fuckin’ love this outfit on you, but I need it off.”

tag list: @xleiaorgana @neptunes-curse

#daisy jones and the six #djats #warren rojas #warren rojas x reader #warren rhodes #warren rhodes x reader #eddie roundtree #eddie loving #daisy jones #karen sirko #karen karen #camila dunne #graham dunne #billy dunne

[putschki1969]

Kaji Fes.2023 Day 2 FULL Video

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Yes, finally we have a recording of Day 2. Even though I was there for Day 2 back in December, I was still excited to experience the whole thing again. Unfortunately, I never got to write my report so I guess I will use the opportunity to share some of my memories and current thoughts.

Here goes nothing┗(•ˇ_ˇ•)―→

street corner: Looks like they cut this. I am surprised because they had a much longer slot for Day 2 (3 hours instead of just 2) so I was sure they would be able to squeeze all of it into the broadcast but apparently not. Oh well, can't say I am said about that because being confronted with the accordion right from the get-go at the live really didn't leave a good impression on me. I had pretty high expectations for the whole thing and this intro left me more than underwhelmed. Thank God we transitioned right to "希望の光".

希望の光: Now THIS is the intro I was hoping for. What a gorgeous melody! I wasn't familiar with the track but my God, I got goosebumps all over. I literally felt this in my entire body. The gradual build-up to a more grand-scale symphonic arrangement towards the end really impressed me. I am just obsessed with the uilleann pipes and the Celtic sound. I honestly struggle to get beyond this because I keep rewinding the video.

prelude to Act 1: The look on my face when I heard those first few notes. I was shooketh to say the least. I most definitely did not expect them to do the Kalafina block this early in the live but I knew that if they were doing the Madoka instrumentals, the most logical thing would be to transition straight into a Kalafina track. While I have never watched the anime, these are melodies I hold very dear to my heart so I loved this. It was also a great pleasure to hear Eri Ito live for the first time. I will never get enough of Yuki's more classically trained vocalists. it's such a pleasure to listen to them.

Numquam vincar: After "prelude to Act 1" this was no surprise at all but damn, I am so glad they played this. I've never actually had the chance to experience this track live even though they obviously performed it numerous times during Kalafina live intermissions. What a pleasure to be there and truly feel the epicness of that intro. Once more I was covered in goosebumps.

Magia [quattro]: At this point I knew it was coming but it was still a shock to my system. Like I said earlier, I was sure that they would wait until the very end to do the Kalafina block (that's what they had done for earlier lives) so I thought I had some time to prepare myself and get into the groove so to speak. My body certainly wasn't ready so maybe that's why my brain couldn't properly compute the whole thing. I remember not being as hyped as I expected to be and that made me kinda sad. I am so grateful that we are getting this recording and a blu-ray release because I feel like I couldn't fully appreciate the performance while I was there. Getting to see it again is a real treat and I must say, I like this much more than the previous FJ "covers" we have gotten of this song. Hikaru and Keiko sound so perfectly in tune and I just love their powerful delivery. For the most part, I don't mind the higher harmonies provided by Yuriko and Joelle. Although during some parts (e.g. mayowazu ni yukeru nara), I feel like Joelle and Keiko don't harmonise very well together but whatever, it doesn't bother me too much. On a random side note, I wasted way too much time wondering about why I thought that Keiko's arms looked kinda naked until I finally realised that the puffy sleeve pieces of her outfit were missing.

storia: I did not expect this to make it onto the setlist but I am a big fan of the song so I was happy when I heard the first notes. Overall, I think I like this version well enough although I will admit that my favourite part has always been the chorus with Keiko and Wakana so it is a bit jarring to hear Joelle for these parts. Don't get me wrong, Joelle sounds great and I feel like the harmony between her and Keiko works better here than during "Magia" but still, it can't quite touch my heart. I mean, just thinking of all the Kalafina performances where Wakana and Keiko gaze lovingly into each other's eyes while they sing the "yasashii uta..." line makes me tear up. Nothing will ever be able to replace that for me. A few days later I attended Wakana's concert where she also performed "storia". This may sound ridiculous but hearing those performances more or less back to back almost felt as if the three of them had been reunited. Even though this might have been a coincidence, just the idea of this little connection had me in tears.

君の銀の庭: Oh, another cut song. Thank God we are getting the Blu-Ray. I will be honest with you though, I am quite sad that they chose two Kalafina songs that I don't particularly like. I couldn't get as excited as I wanted to be. I think I had no complaints about this performance, enjoyed everyone's vocals and didn't really notice Wakana's absence. But I guess that's because I wasn't a big fan of the song to begin with :P

to the beginning: It will forever be a mystery to me why this is such a fan favourite but oh well, let's not linger on that. In some way, it's almost a blessing in disguise for me to not have such a strong emotional connection to these songs because it helps me appreciate the new versions a lot more. No matter how skilled of a singer Joelle might be, if I am invested in a performance with a prominent Wakana part, there is no way anyone will ever live up to that. It's 100% a me problem, I realise that but I doubt I will ever be able change that way of thinking. Anyways, this was a perfectly fine rendition.

海と真珠: Don't think I've ever heard a JUNNA song. Not a huge fan of her voice, it's just too generic for me. But there's something about this song that I like, especially that those hey-hey woah parts. The chorus is decent too. It's not a track I would skip but also not something I would actively seek out.

太陽の航路: Not my cup of tea. I can tell that there is a nice melody hidden in the chorus but it's a bit too fast-paced for me.

time to sail!: Yet another cut. I loved this. Was already familiar with it from a previous recording so I really appreciated getting to hear t live. It's somewhat of a very epic and grand-scale version of "Umi to Shinju" which I am only realising now XD

The main theme of “L.O.R.D”: Can't tell you how very much I am in love with this song. The first time I got to experience this live was in Taiwan back in 2019. The song is so fucking good, I will never get tired of it. I was utterly blown away by Joelle's vocal prowess. I know it always sounds like I am low-key bullying her but that's really not my attention. I am just forever too hung-up on Wakana to ever be able to accept anyone else taking up my favourite parts of her.

I talk to the rain: Can't wait to hear this again on the Blu-ray.

a song of storm and fire: In my report for Day 1 I did talk about tis and "salva nos" being my first introduction to Yuki Kajiura's music. I feel so privileged to have finally been there for a live performance. Needless to say, it was everything that I could have asked for. Watching the recording now doesn't even do it justice. It was so much more powerful at the venue.

ring your song: This always brings tears to my eyes. The melody is just so beautiful and when they all join in, it's literal perfection.

ことのほかやわらかい: God dammit, I really want to like this song because in theory it should be right up my alley. I mean, the instrumental intro is to die for, it's so promising but then it's just all over the place and I can't get into it T_T

夜光塗料: Not a huge fan of ASCA unfortunately and I do not care for the song either.

雲雀: Surprisingly fond of this. Very nice melody. Can see myself listening to it on a regular basis.

君が見た夢の物語: Not much to say about this except that I enjoyed Keiko's lower harmonies. It's not a bad song per se so I probably would have liked it more if it didn't have ASCA on main.

everlasting song: This is always fun although I do enjoy the version without FJ ASUKA more. I know that sounds horrible considering it's literally her song but I will never be a fan of Yuki's vocalists with a more generic voices. Wakana's "kimi no me ni..." will forever be my favourite!!

世界の果て: No thoughts really.

優しい夜明け: Joelle is a much better fit for this See-Saw song than Yuuka. Very enjoyable.

君がいた物語: A favourite of mine. Do I prefer the version with Wakana? Of course! Do I have fun with this version too? Mostly yeah! Kaori's always work for me here but I can tolerate it.

Rainbow~Main Theme~: This was a nice treat. Very fond of KOKIA as a vocalist and this is just a super beautiful song. Have always liked it.

風よ、吹け: Not as smitten with this new KOKIA song but it's nice enough. I certainly wouldn't skip it

lotus: Wow, two Hanae cuts! How rude!!

inverse operation:

目覚め: I do love the Wakana versions but I also enjoy versions with other main vocalists. And of course, Hanae does an amazing job.

夕闇のうた: I know this didn't leave a good impression on me when I first heard it and I can't say I feel much different about it now.

荒野流転: This upcoming FJ Yuuka corner didn't do anything for me, it was the point where I started to get really tired and distracted. It was a struggle to still pay attention even though these were all more up-beat songs.

Silly-Go-Round: Nope.

cazador del amor: Meh.

nowhere: The only song I actually enjoyed from this corner. ASCA thankfully used a voice that I didn't find too grating (which can't be said about rito, JUNNA and Lino). Almost wish I had stood up for this performance and the next because Keiko was spending a lot of time on the left side of the stage (I had an arena seat pretty close to the stage on the left) but I probably wouldn't have had a good view of Keiko anyway so I preferred to just watch the screen. And to be honest, I am not the type of person to stand up and do some weird moves anyway so it was probably for the best. No need to embarrass myself in front of people who actually know how to move their body.

zodiacal sign: I mean, when is this ever not an absolute pleasure?

into the world: I was hoping to see Hikaru again since almost all the other guest vocalists had had a second appearance and yay, she came back on stage for the final song before the encore! "into the world" was such a perfect ending. I definitely got choked up, especially towards the climax of the song when Keiko was really putting all of herself into it.

red rose: Not my favourite but a good track for all the musicians to shine again.

Parade: It's my favourite song from the album and a fitting ending for this behemoth of a concert. At this point, everyone was close to tears after Yuki's little speech so that made it so much more moving. Love, love, love!! Right after they all take a bow and everyone is leaving the stage, I am glad they zoomed in a bit on Keiko who was wiping away some tears and leaning on Hikaru. That moment killed me at the live.

#yuki kajiura #kajiura yuki #report #kalafina #keiko #hikaru #Kaji Fes #Kaji Fes. #Kaji Fes. 2023 #fictionjunction #wow #this was looooong #even with the cuts #Youtube

[candyhoiic]

Okay so hear me out what if when a soul went to heaven, they would still remember a majority of their previous life while other memories would be forgotten almost instantaneously. However, the longer they exist in heaven, the more they will inevitably forget until they can only remember the basics of their past. Like they know who they are, but they're not sure how they exactly became that person.

I like to think that if this were the case, some memories would vanish faster than others in order to make it easier for the soul to be happy and move on with their (after)life. Like the more traumatic memories would be erased from their mind while the happier memories would linger. And to some extent I feel like this would also pertain to people they knew as well. For example, say they had a lot of happy memories with someone who went to hell instead of heaven. Well the good news is they won't remember them for long! /sar

It would actually be so messed up if this were the case like they just wouldn't remember the person one day. Even though they would still know that they must have been close to someone in their life on Earth, but whenever they try to remember they just end up with a headache. So, they decide it must not be that important anyways.

I feel like in that case the only way this effect would be reversed is if the winner/angel was directly face to face with the person they had previously forgotten about, which is unlikely considering how closed off heaven is to hell. Which would also make sense why Sera isn't exactly thrilled with the idea of sinners being redeemed because well wouldn't that just be another way of showing how unperfect heaven actually is. Instead, of them treating the problem, they simply hide it. Sounds familiar, right?

Anyways I want you all to imagine this happening to Adam. Imagine him coming up to heaven, and as the first human soul to enter, he was sort of a heaven's guinea pig leading to the effects being stronger on him than it would be on others since at that time heaven wasn't exactly fine tuned for a human soul to exist there. So, instead of having most of his memories in tact, he basically has none. He doesn't really remember Eden or what went down there. He knows he's the first man and that he lived there at one point before something bad happened, but that's basically it.

He doesn't remember his first or second wife nor does he remember Lucifer much less how he was betrayed by him because honestly, there's no doubt in my mind that these two knew each other and were at the bare minimum friends back in Eden before everything went down. I like to think he doesn't even really remember much of his life outside of Eden. Cain and Abel, who? He just remembers that his life had been better in Eden then it was outside of it.

With his lack of memory as to who he is, he's stuck grappling with the little he does know. Which would justify why he holds onto the title of the first man so hard throughout the series. Because in the beginning that's all he had. Anything else he knew about himself was told to him by Sera and the other angels. Of course, this would lead to him feeling unsure of what to do with his afterlife, and very much like before in Eden he was mainly left alone to just stumble and learn things for himself.

The lack of supervision didn't do much good for him, and I can imagine he was feeling quite lonely not having any other human souls to interact with. It made him feel alienated, and left him with time to wonder about all the things he must have forgotten because he knows he had people he loved back down on earth. Knows there's so much of himself missing that he has no hopes of recovering. It leaves him frustrated and what should be paradise feels like a prison.

Honestly, he might have ended up going crazy if it weren't for him discovering music, and using it to express himself even when he had no one to really share it with. Until one day he was playing a random string instrument and then there was suddenly clapping, and that's how he met the second human soul to ever enter heaven. He instantly clung to their presence, and probably would have hoarded them all to himself if it weren't for Sera and the other seraphim showing up.

When he first saw the angels again, his first instinct was to cling to the other soul for some reason. His body just kind of reacting on its own as if angels had taken someone away from him before. He didn't let go of the other human soul until Sera reassured them, that this soul would be staying in heaven with him. However, even then he didn't stray far from the other's side, but Sera simply moved on.

In celebration for the second human soul finally making it to heaven, the angels gave him the privilege of naming what human souls would be called once they entered heaven, explaining to him how he had been in charge of naming all the animals in Eden beforehand. And when they told him this, he couldn't deny how right that sounded. It brought warmth to his soul to have this little piece of himself back. He felt like he won something in that moment, and thus human souls would be called winners.

Anyways flash forward to years later and well Adam was doing better. He still didn't remember much of his life on Earth, but with more and more winners showing up he stopped caring as much. It was still in the back of his mind, but for the most part he was happy with his place in heaven.

He may have even gotten a little bit too complacent with his new life of being the first human soul to make it to heaven. He let himself go some since the winners would dote on him, making it so easy to simply let them do things for him. Although one thing he never stopped doing was playing music. Any and all instruments just felt right in his hands like music was an important part of him.

Life was good until he started to notice the new amount of winners coming into heaven started to slow, and how Sera grew worried with each passing day. Eventually he asked her what was wrong not really expecting an answer, knowing how secretive she could be. Although it seemed like even she had her limits because for better or for worse she told him about hell and how their population was rising faster than heavens. She unloaded concerns on him that she really should have known better than to burden him with. He may be the first man but he was still just that a man.

When he heard about this, he felt an urge to know more about hell. He felt like hell had answers he couldn't find in heaven about his life, and again he really shouldn't have been allowed to, but he was able to convince Sera to let him see hell. He reasoned he had a right to see where his other descendants were going. Besides maybe he could put some of her worries to rest by spying around what was currently happening in hell.

So, that's how he found himself heading down to hell to simply go down there and scout out the place nothing more, nothing less. Sera had even given him a mask similar to his exterminator mask we see him wear in the show so he could blend in better with the demons who lived down there.

If only he realized that even a quick visit to the dwellings of sin could still corrupt the soul. It wasn't as much as it would have been if he were cast out of heaven without his heavenly aurora to shield him from the brunt of hell's oppressive environment, but it still effected him more than one would think. It made him more sensitive to the the temptation of sin. Made him feel less pitiable towards the plight of his fallen descendants, but even then the trip would have gone without incident.

He probably would have even completely recovered from the surface level tainting his soul was experiencing if not for the fact he would catch a glance of Lucifer and Lilith of all people. Thankfully, he saw them at a distance, but a look was all it took for all his memories with Lucifer and Lilith to come slamming back. All the good and bad of a whole life time was remembered in a matter of minutes. Leaving him feeling rage and betrayal that he wouldn't know what to do with because well emotions and him just don't mix.

These already strong feelings were amplified by hell's atmosphere tainting his soul, which in turn would worsen the extent of harm his soul would go through. Thus, this mere instance would eventually lead to the development of exterminations, and developing Adam into the character we see in the show.

#adamsapple #hazbin hotel adam #hazbin hotel brainrot #hazbin hotel #hazbin hotel heaven #headcanon #hazbin hotel theory #hazbin hotel thoughts #lucifer morningstar #hazbin hotel lucifer #lilith

[maxphilippa]

babe wake up new GKGG AU designs just dropped

I should have done these long time ago but my brain just doesn't want to cooperate ig

You can find some info of them under the "Read More"!:

Marshmallow: Marshmallow was an influencer back then, even before the show began. Unlike in canon (Canon Bow), her friendship with Knife and Mic is explicit, since Marsh was a part of their friend group and she got to know II thanks to Mic because of her fangirling about it. She quickly got interesed on the show. She's an young adult that is, and was pretty close with the current Green Gamers polycule + Taco. Marsh is sweet and kind, shy as well, but she does like to have fun and once she wants to prove herself, she's reckless, to the point where others could call her dumb. Cobs didn't want her getting in trouble/hurt for getting in the middle of one of the challenges, but once he got the call from ADAM, he ended up accepting Marsh's presence in the show and made her a contestant. Marshmallow is a pretty social person as the time passes and she doesn't give up easily. So when they got her inside of Idiotic Island she wanted to escape since it was terrible, and Cobs made sure she didn't by... telling her to not do that, that they would go out sooner than later and that he was truly sorry for it, that it was what the showrunners asked him to do. As weird as it sounded for Marsh, she didn't focus on that but the fact that she still wanted to escape. And she almost did but... they trapped her inside of the metal box to not let her out. But no one really knew that she was there. Her Feral Look isn't exactly feral, as she is full of adrenaline and physical pain. Her thing here are pillows instead of chairs.

Bow: Bow is an special case. Marsh and her were best friends back then when Marsh was alive. Bow was a very known musician, who was also recognized by her strong attitude and quirky personality of sorts. But she was a great violinist and knew how to play the piano just great. Marshmallow was a big fan of Bow's songs, and Bow was a big admirer of Marsh's work. They did some collabs as well, and everything was going just fine. Until Marsh just... started to drift away slowly. Bow didn't want to say anything since she didn't want to bother Marshmallow, but she did miss her friend. She started sending her messages but Marsh couldn't reply because of the show and eventually, the box. When Marshmallow's definitive death was announced, Bow wasn't able to process it. So she was in denial. She didn't believe it and didn't want to do it. But... it was true. She knew Marsh was gone. She just didn't want to say "bye" to her friend. Stuff happens and, well, she ends up dying thanks to S&P. Marsh does no longer remember her, but she's happy to be with her friend again.

Dough: He's both a mix of Canon Dough and Canon Apple. He's slow at understanding things and doesn't get a lot of stuff, but his heart is in a good place. He doesn't have a lot of friends so he loves and cares deeply for those who he has (Apple, for example), but he's not as energetic really. He has a good heart and tries to be there for Apple, but Apple has troubles opening up after all. He likes to play the piano and likes making songs time to time. Even if his memory is kind of shit, he does remember that way back then, he had an step sibling to who he showed how to play some instruments as well. He doesn't know what happened to her ever since she went away, and... well, there's not much he can do anyway. He's an splendid guy, just needs more critical thinking.

Apple: Apple is a smart girl. But she's not smart emotionally for the record. She has troubles with recognizing her own feelings at times and she feels awfully guilty for what happened with Marsh, and with what happened to Dough, since there was a distance made by Marsh's allucinations. She didn't end up on good terms with Dough after he got out, and was worried she messed up the friendship she had with him. She values her friends deeply and that shows with Taco too! Taco did everything to look after her!

Silver Spoon: Silver is Knife's brother here, most likely the younger sibling, so they most likely had different enviroments/ways to grow up and see the world. Meanwhile Knife threw himself into his studies and became a pretty smart scientist, Silver had a somewhat darker turn. He was similar to Canon Silver years ago that is, always sure of what he was doing and soft spoken (but not in the way Candle would be), and his main job was and is to help people spiritually. However, one of those jobs ended up terribly, and that led him to have another being inside of his body- The Inner Shine. So him being unstable wasn't helping since this creature was a treat to others and everything you know. But thankfully, Knife was there to help him on that, and was never scared towards The Inner Shine. That helped Silver to recover emotionally from his new situation of some sorts, but then, he had to work on himself to dominate this spirit. And he did. Once he reached peace within himself, he was able to control the spirit at his favor, and the spirit warns him about future events that may occur when he meditates. Nowdays, Silver is charming, dear and soft spoken in a way that actually calms others. He looks up to Knife, and wants to help everyone out, since he knows what it is to be helpless. The color of his quartz would be light blue + cyan instead of purple and pink. He does feel useless if he can't help others, since it's the thing he has been doing the most for years after all. Though Knife tries to cheer him up and say that Silver has to focus on himself instead of others sometimes, but it's still hard. He seems to have low self esteem in a way and self doubts too much. Other than that, he's a good friend and only uses his crystal when it is truly necessary.

Candle: Candle comes from a very high-class family, which means she always got what she wanted too. She's smart but in a way that most people don't like (Taco) and is too full of herself at times. This is mostly because she hasn't really made any "friends" in terms of relationships for most of her life, so she's too out of touch with that. She's sarcastic and likes to tease others, Taco specifically, but even then, unlike Silver in canon, she started to show more frequently that she actually does care about her fellow teammates and contestants. Her friends, to an extent. Mostly thanks to Silver that is. He became her spark in a way. She started to be kinder, in her own way, which would be "a dick but with good intentions". Though she's still full of herself.

But she generally does appreciate her friendships and alliances, she just sucks a lot at emotional stuff and is awkward towards it, but she still tries. However, when Silver was eliminated, she felt guilt. And that started to sink in for her. This is what she wanted, right? So why does she feel sad? That's because, as much as she joked about her not caring for her friends, as much as she could act like an asshole, she missed and loved them deeply. She wishes she could have said anything to Taco and Silver before they were eliminated. She wished she could apologize for the things she said. But now, she's completely alone.

#inanimate insanity #ii #inanimate insanity invitational #ii 2 #ii 3 #ii au #ii gkgg au #inanimate insanity marshmallow #inanimate insanity apple #inanimate insanity dough #inanimate insanity bow #inanimate insanity silver spoon #inanimate insanity candle #ii candle #ii bow #ii silver spoon #ii apple #ii marshmallow #ii dough #max does art #max explains the ii gkgg au

[regalevansworth]

Loving you

(Songfic — ‘Back to December’ by Taylor Swift)

Pairing : Chris Evans x Male Reader

Summery : Christmas is said to be the festival of joy and happiness. But for you, it brings the unbearable burn of old wounds. The ones you are so desperate to heal, to make all right. But will he ever give you the chance? After all you did to him? The pain, the heartbreak you caused him? Do you really deserve it? Unbeknownst to you, the person still aches for your love. He still stands where you left him, waiting for you to come back.

Warnings/tags : No warnings. Pure angst & fluff

A/N : First of all, I'd like to thank all of you for giving my Lloyd Hansen fic so much love. It truly means a lot. And secondly, this is a small (late) Christmas gift for my Tumblr fam.I actually have a Chris Hemsworth fic already in the work, which hopefully will be released soon. In the meantime, enjoy this angsty fluffy treat that came in my mind outta nowhere. Back to December is one of my favourite Taylor Swift songs and converting it into a fic was interesting. Hope you love it. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

There is a party at the community park today. The party of Christmas Eve. People are going to gather around and make merry as the season of Christmas settles around. Being one of the biggest community in Boston, the people held no reservation against making it ostentatious. You also heard that a special guest is to come with their family but the identity of the person is rather undisclosed. A surprise sort of.

As a part of this community you are also going to attend the party. And having a good reputation for being a 'singer-in-the-making', also at the insistence of nearly everyone at the community, you complied to perform at least one song on the function.

You sigh as you shrug on your jacket. Your parents and siblings are already there waiting for you. Pocketing your woolen beanie, you head towards the door of your modern house and step outside.

As soon as you close the door behind you, the cold December air hit you, making your eyes water and chills erupting all over your body despite your warm getup. A blanket of thick snow covering all over the surface.

December, you think wishfully as you start to make your way to the community park. So many sweet memories but one can find the sourness of some particular memories if they take their time to sort through them. But one thing you know for a fact, yours can be found very easily. Because they're fresh yet old. Laced with so much pain, heartbreak and an unforgettable end.

You shake your head, determined not to think about them. You need a calm mind to roll the lyrics around your lips. You don't need past memories to sour your mood lest you want to disappoint the audience.

Past, you scoffed inwardly. One year isn't past. Not when the time has barely passed for you. Yes, you still think about that December. It's as if you haven't moved past it yet. Your guilt and regret constantly pulls you towards that endless abyss.

Because you know that, it was your fault. He was the victim. He gave all his love, his precious heart. But you crushed all of it with your bare hands. Still, you could've apologized, but you didn't. You can't blame it entirely on less of opportunities. Because there was plenty. But being the coward you were, you didn't even make a move. And it kills you every single day, awaken and asleep.

He has probably moved on. But you couldn't. You can't. You're still looking forward to a chance. And if it never shows up, you are going to live an incomplete life. Is it worth living?

Finally reaching your destination, you let your gaze roam over the entire scene. Christmas lights all over the area. On the trees, benches, stalls, everywhere. Children running and playing around, gleeful in their own joy. Adults laughing, boisterous. Clapping each other on back, drinking.

There is a stage on the corner where musical instruments are kept. That's where you'll be singing. You can see an elderly couple sitting on a far bench. The man unwrapping his muffler from his neck and wrapping it around his wife's. You smile softly at the display inspite of yourself.

Taking a deep breath, you enter the joy ground. Closing all of your mindless thought at the back of your mind. Masking your expressing with a picture of complete enthusiasm. Why showing them what they'll never understand? You are content in suffering on your own, that's what you deserve.

❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️

December, Chris thinks as he drives his family car to where they're invited to a Christmas party today. December used to be his favourite time of the year. But now it only brings the pain and confusion he felt last December when the person he loved and cherished the most left him.

Yes, that is the word. LEFT him. But never bothered to tell him why. The answer to that why, he craves it just as much as the survivors of a desert craves water. Sometimes the crave suffocates him. Then he remembers the beautiful time they had passed. The blossoming love brimming both of their hearts.

Chris could feel himself lost in those beautiful eyes whenever he looked down in them. Could feel himself bewitched by that beautiful smile. So delicate, so lovely. He could feel himself floating by that beautiful twinkling laughter that never failed to put a fond smile on his face

He thought he could never hear his name so beautiful coming out of someone untill he heard the breathless ‘Chris’s falling from those sinful lips. Every kiss, every intimate moment they shared was precious to him. Because it felt so right.

Then what happened? When did it all go wrong? Did he do something that could jeopardize their relationship? Was his love not enough? Was he not enough? He could swear he felt the same amount of love pouring from that person. Then why the goodbye?

He wants the answers. But more than anything, he wants that person back in his life. Back in his arms. To give their love a second chance. But how? He doesn't know. All he ever knows is that their love was everything to him. He could never love anyone like that. Their love was it for him.

Reaching where they're invited, Chris parked the car along with the other ones on the parking spot and got out. They used to live here once. Therefore so many of their close friends are from this community and insisted them to be their guest on this party. Tucking his hands inside his pockets, he makes his way inside the park along with family, Scott, Lisa and two of his nephews.

People immediately spot them and greet them. Some of them already started to take pictures with him. As the night progresses, he found himself genuinely enjoy talking with old friends and just being himself.

After awhile, there is a slight commotion from the mic on the stage and one of the hosts clears his throat, grabbing everyone's attention. “Merry Christmas and a very good evening, ladies and gentlemen. It is so nice to have all of here today. Our celebration of Christmas Eve this year couldn't have been more perfect. I'd like to thank Mr. Chris Evans and his family for accepting our invitation and joining with us. Now, we also have someone here to make our evening even more brighter. A lot of you have guessed already, I know. They have the sweetest voice to enlighten all our mood. So please welcome on stage, (Y/N) (L/N)!!”

Chris's heart stops beating in his chest in time of a loud cheers erupting all over the audience. He completely froze. (Y/N)? His (Y/N)? Beside him, he can feel his mom and Scott stiffen. He doesn't know what to do. Laugh? Cry? He just stands there, eyes glued on the stage.

Then a figure starts to slowly approach from the backstage. Dressed in white t-shirt, dark jacket, dark jeans and boots. As the spotlight steadily falls on the figure, their beautiful face comes to view.

Chris felt as if his breath has been knocked out of his lungs. He can't move, feels like he's shaken to his very core. His (Y/N), the love of his life standing there on stage with a mic in his hand. Beautiful as ever.

One year, but your beauty still doesn't fail to leave him breathless. Lips parted in a small smile, delicate hands clutching the mic, wavy hair flailing about from the gentle breeze, you looked etherial to him. Your wide eyes searching the crowd. Those eyes, he thinks. He just wants to jump on the stage and take you in his arm, never let you go.

But he can't. It's like a wall has been built between you two. One word is echoing in his mind, 'why'. Why did you do what you did all those months ago? But at the same time he's scared to ask, scared to know even. He can't be vulnerable again, not before you. He has to be strong.

❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️

You saw him right the moment you step into the stage. How could you not. You loved this person too much to not spot him, even in this crowd of so many people. Okay, maybe that's too much. Any one could spot him anywhere, even from a mile afar. Because he is The Chris Evans. But for you, he was only Chris. Your Chris.

Your heart hasn't calm down since you've seen him. You feel as if it's going to burst out of your chest any time now. You're only able to maintain your composure because they're so many people watching you right now. Even if your eyes are slightly widened.

But, God does he look handsome. He always does. That muscular figure clad in black button-up, slacks, suit jacket and shoes. He has overgrown his beard, through which once you loved to run your fingers. The delicious coarseness you felt everytime it brushed against one of your body parts. Your neck, chin, inner thighs......you blush immediately at your train of thoughts.

But what you loved most about him, was his eyes. So blue, it pierces right through your soul. Eyes that are now averting yours. Shame and guilt bubbled up inside you at his action. He has his guards up. Why shouldn't he? After all you did to him.

He deserves someone better. Someone that'll love him, trust him just as much as he does. Not some coward. Maybe he has already found that person, maybe they're happy. He doesn't love you anymore, you think disgustedly. But you do owe him an apology. But you are not so eloquent with your words. Still there is something to help you today.

You look down on the mic in your hand and make your mind. Stealing one last glance at him, you nod at the host and the instrument players and make you way towards the front of the stage. Closing your eyes, you begin.....

💙🤍💙🤍💙🤍💙🤍💙🤍💙🤍💙🤍💙🤍

I'm so glad you made time to see me How's life, tell me how's your family I haven't seen them in a while

You open your eyes and look over in time to see Chris's mom giving you a small smile and Scott waving at you. You smile back and let your gaze flit over to where Chris is standing, eyes glued to you. You feel your cheeks heaten up.

Meanwhile Chris is transfixed by your voice. He can't believe how sweet you sound. You used to sing to him at night and he always encouraged you. He believed you could be a great singer one day, he just couldn't get you out of your shyness. And here you are today. Displaying your talent and making his heart feel full.

You've been good, busier than ever We small talk, work and the weather Your guard is up and I know why

You drop your gaze to the ground. Somehow ashamed to look at anyone. Chris looks away as the reality of the song slowly dawns on him.

Because the last time you saw me is still burned in the back of your mind You gave me roses and I left them there to die

Yes, Chris can remember that night. He came home from a 2 days shoot to see the bouquet of your favorite roses that he sent to you with a 'Merry early Christmas, love' card laying on the tea-table haphazardly. Almost rotten. Just beside the bouquet was a letter, you letter, saying this wasn't working for you anymore and you're leaving. He cried so much that night that he had a constant migraine the next day.

So this is me swallowing my pride Standing in front of you saying I'm sorry for that night And I go back to December all the time

You and Chris make eye contact for the first time and Chris can see the plea and intent in them. Your beautiful eyes shining with unshed tears making his eyes water as well.

It turns out freedom ain't nothing but missing you Wishing I'd realized what I had when you were mine

Chris was the best thing that had ever happened to you. No one ever loved you and cherished you like he did. His love was so selfless and you miss it. Miss all of it.

Chris can see the longing in your eyes. He misses you just as much you miss him. But he's too afraid to say it out loud.

I'd go back to December, turn around and make it alright I go back to December all the time

Yes you want to. God do you want to just go back in time and change all of it. If it means to have him back, you'd do anything.

Chris also wants nothing else than go back in time and keep you from leaving.

As the instruments plays in the background, you two stare at each other and just wonder what went wrong. You know what went wrong. But you don't know at the same time. It frustrates you so much you can't even explain.

These days I haven't been sleeping staying up playing back myself leaving When your birthday passed and I didn't call

On every birthday of Chris during your time together, you were the first one to call him and wish him Happy Birthday when he was away. Even after your breakup, you desperately wanted to call him just as always. But you couldn't find it yourself to get to dial his number. Couldn't find a reason.

Chris remembers his birthday this year. The first thing he did after waking up was checking his phone. It was as if on instinct. Like he was waiting for your call or message. But he couldn't find any. Among so many well wishers, there wasn't you. And it crushed his heart even more. You could at least give him a text. But you didn't.

Then I think about summer, all the beautiful times I watched you laughing from the passenger side And realized I loved you in the fall

“You know we could be lounging in our pool right now?” You huffed and glared at Chris from the passenger seat. Chris, with his one hand on the steering wheel and the other petting dodger's head, gave you a broad grin, “But baby, this is much more fun” he countered. You rolled you eyes and made a face, “What? Fishing in this summer heat? I swear Chris, if I get a sunburn on anywhere on my body, I'm not letting you touch me for the entire week.” You crossed you arms over your chest and stared ahead. Chris only laughed and pulled you in a kiss. You couldn't help but smile into the kiss.

The memory brings a soft smile in your face as you sing the lyrics. From few feet away, Chris also smiled at the same memory. Both of you felt the love and it went even more deeper when you walked hand in hand on the evenings of fall.

And then the cold came, the dark days when fear crept into my mind you gave me all your love and all I gave you was goodbye

Fear. It was fear that made you do all the things you did to him. You feared your love wouldn't stay the same. You feared it'd inevitably end in heartbreak. You feared Chris was too good to be true. But at the same time, you knew you were being unreasonable. The fear of losing him was so great that you started backing up from the relationship. Leaving him entirely clueless as to why you felt like that.

Chris notes the slight quiver in your voice. And suddenly, something clicks inside him. With a frown on his face, he remembers how you to started detach yourself from him in the prior months to your breakup. You started to withdraw yourself more and more. And whenever he looked into your eyes, he saw something imperceptible. What was it? Was it fear? Fear of what? He never bothered to ask you and now he feels the regret come crashing down on him.

Coming back to present, he looks over at you. But you are looking at anywhere but him. Like you're ashamed. Like you revealed something really personal.

So this is me swallowing my pride standing in front of you saying I'm sorry for that night And I go back to December all the time

You wish he'd know how sorry you are. You want to scream at the top of your lungs, beg for forgiveness. You can't stay alive knowing you brought a pain so vicious. Reminder of it will eat you every day.

it turns out freedom ain't nothing but missing you Wishing I'd realized what I had when you were mine I'd go back to December, turn around and change my own mind I go back to December all the time

You just want to go back and change all the things that went wrong. Change your mind about leaving him. But you can't change the past, even if you wanted so desperately. Life isn't some science-fiction. You nearly laughed at the irony of your song and reality.

I miss your tan skin, your sweet smile so good to me, so right

You sing the lyrics with a slight head tilt and sad smile on your face all the while looking at him. Your eyes are misty but you don't seem to care.

Chris can see the open longing in your eyes. And he realizes for the first time that you still love him. You still love him to miss him like that. He can't breath and just stares at you, studies you.

And how you held me in your arms that September night the first time you ever saw me cry

Chris has always been a constant source of comfort to you. Whenever you felt sad or felt like crying, he'd wrap his strong arms around you and hold you tightly. He would shush you gently and kiss your forehead. He was someone that you could easily confide in and take refuge in his strength. So warm and so right.

Maybe this is wishful thinking probably mindless dreaming But if we loved again I swear I'd love you right

Chris feels dizzy. Because it's not your wishful thinking nor some mindless dreaming. He wants that too. So desperately. And he doesn't have to look in your eyes to see that you mean it.

But then, just as quickly, your expression changes. Morphs into something more difficult to understand. He watches you blink several times and look down before continuing.....

I'd go back in time and change it, but I can't so if the chain is on your door, I understand

You don't want to lift your expectations too high. Why should he open the doors to his heart once more for you? You don't deserve it.

Chris watches the hard acceptance on your features. He wants rush to you and show you that he is still yours. He hasn't moved on. But he stays glued to the ground. Why everything has to be so hard for both of you?

But this is me swallowing my pride standing in front of you saying I'm sorry for that night And I go back to December It turns out freedom ain't nothing but missing you Wishing I'd realized what I had when you were mine I'd go back to December, turn around and make it alright I'd go back to December turn around and change my own mind I go back to December all the time

You feel so exhausted at once. More than you felt for a long time. You just want this to end, want your sufferings to end. You can't keep fighting anymore.

All the time

With the song concluding it's final note, Chris watches as a silent tear slide down your cheek, making his heart shatter into million pieces. He hates your tears. Especially when he can do nothing about it.

You slowly open your eyes and let your gaze roam over the silent crowd. A flush of embarrassment creeps up your cheeks as the reality dawns on you. But it doesn't matter anymore. You have done what you wanted to do. Now you just want to get out of here. Away from here.

Scrambling, you excuse yourself from the audience and rush out of the scene, wiping your tears, not looking at anyone. You're angry at yourself for showing this much vulnerability in front of everyone, especially him. He must be thinking what a fool you are. Must be laughing at you right now.

Chris watches with dread as you leave hastily. No, this is his chance, to make everything right between you. Your fate brought you together this day. Exactly one year after that nightmare. Destiny has given you both a chance and he can't lose it, even if his life is dependend on it.

He feels a hand on his shoulder. Turning around he sees his mom and Scott nodding at him. Go, they want to say. Go get him.

Wasting no more time, Chris runs after you. Determined to not to let you go this time.

Walking has never felt like a chore before. Your legs feel like they'll give out at any time. You feel your phone vibrating in your pocket. Sniffing, you reach out to pull out your phone. It's your dad. Probably calling to check in on you, seeing how you left. But you don't want to talk to any one right now. You want to be alone. Shutting off your phone, you put it inside your pocket and resume walking.

Suddenly you feel a strong grip around your wrist, tugging you back. You yelp and bump against what must've been a brick wall. But it's someone's chest. Someone you're so strongly familiar with, someone you're connected to the heart.

“Running away from me again?” that deep baritone voice, making you look up into the owners piercing blue eyes.

“Chris” you whisper, making his heart set ablaze. He clutches your hands close to his chest. You two are standing so close that you can feel his body heat wafting off of him. It's taking all of your willpower not to snuggle close. Chase that warmth.

Chris can't stop looking into your eyes. It still feels so surreal to have you close to him again. You feel perfect tucked against him. Like you two are two puzzles fitting around all edges. And he knows then and there, that he'll have you again. Make you his again.

But then you gently push him away, making unwanted distance between you. Looking away, you ask him, “What're you doing here?” “I'm here to get back what's mine” he replies, looking at you intently.

You shake your head, not understanding, “Why?” you ask. Your eyes going watery again and you hate yourself for it. Hate yourself for even seeing the beacon of hope.

Chris gently takes you by the shoulder and looks deeply into your eyes, “Because I love you” he whispers. And you can see the truth behind his words. There is no hesitation behind it. No cruel joke. But still you're confused. Why would he love you after....

“But I hurt you” you said, not looking at him. Waiting to be laughed in the face. But it never comes. Instead, you feel his callaused, rough palm on your cheek, turning your face towards him. “Yes, you did.” he said making you feel worse than you ever felt now that you heard it from him.

Then he took your hand in his and gently put it over his chest where his heart is steadily beating. “But the hurt wasn't greater than what I felt in here. And do you know what that is?” he asks. You can only stare dumbly at him, too shoked to say anything.

“Your love”, he declares. And he says it so reverently that you feel your legs slowly giving out. Is it truly happening? Or is it some cruel game of fate? You are completely dumbstruck. You feel like you're going to break into tears any time. You are beyond ecstatic.

Finally, not being able to hold back anymore, you reach up and crash your lips onto his. Chris returns the kiss just as eagerly. He snakes his strong arms around your waist and pulls you even more closer. You get on your tiptoes and wrap your arms around his neck to fully submit into the kiss.

The kiss is feverish. Laced with the pain of a year of longing. You both kiss like it's the end of time and you're never going to get the chance again. Chris licks your bottom lip, asking for access. You comply happily and let him deepen the kiss.

So what if the pain is still fresh? What if things are yet to gain semblance? You both simply don't care as long as you have each other. You'll work on your faults and make your relationship better. You'll grow to love and trust each other once again. This is a promise of giving your everything to the other person. Destiny has brought you together in this moment to simply give each the love you preserved in your hearts.

As you break the kiss and stare deeply into his eyes, you know that you'll give your everything to make this work. You'll love him as long as he'll allow you to and looking at him you know that he's not leaving you anytime soon.

With a sigh you bury yourself in his warm embrace as the snow starts to fall around you like a blessing from the sky itself.

“I love you, Chris”

“I love you too, baby”

#chris evans #chris evans x male reader #chris evans x reader #chris evans imagine #chris evans fluff #chris evans angst #x male reader #male reader insert #regalevansworthfic

[never-gonna-danse-again]

favourite DCR songs

Because here, we think about the important stuff.

(fyi these are for the base game permanent companions, but if you want to hear about any others let me know :)

Cait: Whole Lotta Shaking Goin' On

I can't actually think of a reason she'd like this it just speaks to me. You can't deny that Big Maybelle would start playing and you'd suddenly look over to see her having a tiny dance and humming along. At higher affinity she's ask you to sing with her; a true honour

Codsworth : Way Back Home

Let's be real, Codsworth is a robot made to serve who has been stuck in the same house for two hundred years, all alone. When Sole starts bringing people back to Sanctuary and renovating the whole town, it was the best thing that had happened to him since pre-war life. He can help people, he can fulfil his duty as a Mr. Handy, and this song lets him reflect on how far he's come

Curie: Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall

She loves Ella Fitzgerald's voice, deeming her an angel (in a french accent, this will sound cute idk) and always asks questions to Sole about how they played the instruments, an art that has since become almost extinct after the war. Sole promises one day they'll try and find a guitar and learn the song for her

Danse: One More Tomorrow

This was him and Cutler's song. Back in Rivet City, they shared a flat somewhere in the complex, and they found a record left behind from the previous owner (one of the tiny ones with like two songs on). Other than the Muddy Rudder, there wasn't too much to do, so One More Tomorrow was often played on repeat. Cutler taught him how to dance to this song, and it remains as his favourite because it helps him remember how he used to laugh and smile back when they were younger

Deacon: Sixty Minute Man

100% hears this song come on the radio and proceeds to give Sole the most childish side eye known to man. He knows full well what the songs is about, but always manages to put some stupid spin on the lyrics and has danced his way away from a super mutant suicider to it.

Hancock: I Don't Want to Set the World on Fire

One of the few memories he still recalls from his childhood is him and his mother playing while this songs plays somewhere in the background; it makes him feel happy, though after so much chem abuse, he can't really understand why. He doesn't remember her face, but always imagines her voice singing along with him to every line.

MacCready: The Wanderer

Absolutely vibes with it, and though he hasn't been around with as many women as the song details, he's been roaming the wastes all his life. He's not quite ready to settle down because he's still trying to recover from Lucy's loss, and The Wanderer speaks to him and his nomadic spirit, letting him know it's okay that things turned out this way.

Valentine: The End of the World

one of his pre-war favourites inherited from his namesake, who attended ballroom dances with Jennifer every Tuesday evening; they loved the slow sway of this song, and even now Nick can't seem to shake the urge to turn it right up from Sole's Pip-Boy whenever it comes on. Can be heard humming it if you listen closely enough in Sanctuary

Piper: Personality

She's always been a great judge of character, even since she was a girl, so understandably, personality's pretty important to her. Her and Deacon duet it while travelling/ in a bar and have gotten surprisingly good at harmonies; Shaun's been trying to fix up an old karaoke machine for them so they can grace the whole of Sanctuary with a personal concert.

Preston: Good Rockin' Tonight

his old Minutemen buddies made a whole routine to this song after he told them he liked it; there's a lot of sentimentality attached to it for him, and doesn't hesitate to make new drunken mistakes to the song, if not just for them.

Strong: Butcher Pete

Strong likes Butcher Pete because he eats people. Butcher Pete is one of his number one idols because of this fact

X6: he claims to hate the station and insists that he much prefers the Classical Station, but really, he secretly loves Pistol Packin' Mama. How does Sole figure this out? They walk in to see him bobbing his head along with the music and singing the odd chorus while he mods his rifle. Most embarrassing moment of his life, but hilarious for the rest of Sanctuary.

#fallout 4 #fo4 #fallout 4 companions #deacon fallout 4 #nick valentine #fo4 maccready #x6 88 #fallout x6 88 #cait fallout 4 #sillys #diamond city radio #travis fallout 4 #i haven't seen one of these before #i did not take into mind the canon music preferences but ah well

[amity206]

Random Elder Headcanons

Thinking about the Sky elders and what they would have been like when they were fully alive (I use he/him for Daleth and she/her for Teth based on things the devs have said when talking about them but given the elders canonically don’t have biological genders I just go with some of them decided to use gendered pronouns while others didn’t - everyone is free to their own interpretation of the lore)

Daleth / Isle Elder

Likes solving puzzles

Stargazes and knows the constellations by memory (as the guide / ferryman elder I imagine he would be skilled in navigating by stars)

Takes a really long time to make decisions but usually makes good ones

Very supportive (concept stuff compared him to a kindergarten teacher), knows how to talk to kids (though he can sometimes get overwhelmed by the noise he’s super good with children)

Actually very skilled in both combat and magic. In his old age he’s getting weaker but he can definitely still kick ass

History geek

Blames himself for the King’s corruption. He thinks he could have prevented it, that he didn’t do enough. He still loves the King like a grandchild and wants to make sure he’s okay.

Ayin / Prairie Elder

Really good at cooking, even though the Elders probably had staff to cook for them

Loves baby mantas (baby light creatures of all kinds really)

Likes to make miniature models of things. would really enjoy those several thousand piece Lego sets if spirits had legos

Vegetarian

super patient. Almost never mad. Absolutely terrifying when they do get mad

Listens to everyone’s opinions on things, very thoughtful

Gives the best hugs

Very hard worker, incredibly strong. The kind of person who does not procrastinate

its canon that they snore loudly

Very sad over how the light creatures were drained under their watch, filled with guilt about it. Wishes they could have found another way that didn’t involve trapping the King in Eden.

Teth / Forest Elder

Could be bossy or stern sometimes, but actually cares very much about the people around her

She will snap at you for annoyances like handing her a shipment of improperly prepared darkstone. Everyone around her deeply respects her though

Introvert at heart, secretly enjoys cheesy romance novels as well as like. Business / mining manuals

Originally called the shaman ancestor so probably had a deeper connection to Megabird, at least at first

Nothing scares her (at least, that’s what she says)

Inner turmoil about her role in the Fall - knowing she played an instrumental role in the Kingdom’s downfall, but also unwilling to place the blame on herself. Despises the former King

Samekh / Valley Elders

Very focused on maintaining their public image and being seen as great by the Kingdom

Sibling Banter™️ with constantly trying to out-perform each other. Despite this in the face of a threat they fight almost as if they were the same person… or used to be

Former bodyguards of the King, watched him become corrupted. As the youngest Elders they looked up to the King more and didn’t know what to do

Liked to throw massive parties/spectacles

Because of this and their playful/occasionally flirtatious streak, some regarded them as more shallow and less intelligent than the rest of the Elders. Sah and Mek were actually geniuses, though prone to making impulse decisions

they judge you by how well you perform in the races / other tests laid out by them. Very dismissive of those who don’t do well.

Because of the “maintaining public image” thing, even in a dead Kingdom they don’t want to let anything be known about the extent they had to do with the corruption

Tsadi / Wasteland Elder

Got seriously corrupted by darkstone like they did in concept art. Used to be super in control of their emotions, as the corruption took hold they became more short-tempered and angry

Long-term planner, very good at military strategy and also strategy games like the Sky version of chess. Has an amazing poker face. (Ignore that the spirits wear masks okay)

Really needs someone to talk to, finds it hard to open up but has a lot to get off their chest- loss, regret, pain, things they could have done better, people they could have saved. Before the Storm they used to talk to Ayin, but now they can’t anymore

Doesnt talk much. Enjoys the company of Teth because they’re both introverts and Teth also likes strategy games.

Wanted to be seen as a hero, not a monster. Thought they were fighting for the good of the Kingdom

Enjoys books on military history and strategy

Cares a lot about people, bad at expressing it

Feels like the King used them as a weapon, incredibly angry about that

Lamed / Vault Elder

The kind of person who will silently judge you instead of confronting you about something

Always uses inside voice

Knows so many things. Passion is searching for obscure and forgotten history

Doesnt get involved in other people’s drama, would serve as a mediator in debates between Elders. Has never needed to raise their voice because a stern look is enough to get everyone to shut up. No one wants to see them get mad.

Fluent in sign language and several ancient languages

Good friends with Daleth, they have tea and share stories

MASTER at strategy games, better in many of them than Tsadi. Sharp-witted too, good at the occasional pun and knows if you’re hiding something/lying

Feels bad for skykids. Doesn’t know how to tell them they were basically created to die, so does their best to prepare them for the storm instead

#sky cotl #sky children of the light #thatskygame #sky cotl lore #sky: cotl #sky: children of the light #sky cotl headcanons #sky cotl theories #vault elder #wasteland elder #valley elders #forest elder #prairie elder #isle elder

[misc-obeyme]

THE THREADS THAT BIND

CHAPTER NINE

MASTERPOST for summary/info/chapter list

a/n: Protective Barb is my favorite thing. I couldn't let Arrie and Sol have all the fun lol. Should you feel that this chapter ends abruptly, just remember that there are four more chapters to this story. This is not the end!

GN!MC x Barbatos | word count 1,775

Warnings: magical violence, MC is in pain, demon OC, sorcerer OC

A few days later, you were at RAD with Barbatos when Arsenios and Solomon came over to where the two of you were sitting.

"You owe me more tea, at the very least," Arsenios said, arms folded as Solomon placed a folded piece of paper on the table.

Solomon laughed lightly. "It wasn't that bad, was it? In fact, I would say it turned out to be much easier than either of us expected."

Barbatos picked up the paper, unfolding it. You looked over his shoulder and saw that it was a detailed description of a counter curse. It was handwritten, clearly something that had been created by Tobias himself.

Barbatos smiled. "I cannot express how grateful I am to both of you. I hope it was not too difficult for you to obtain this."

"It was no problem," Solomon said.

At the same time, Arsenios said, "It was mostly annoying."

They looked at each other, Solomon smiling while Arsenios gave him a flat look.

Arsenios turned back to Barbatos. "All I had to do was sing to him."

You cocked your head to the side. "Sing to him?"

"Arsenios can put humans into a trance merely by singing or playing an instrument," Barbatos explained.

"It was fascinating to watch," Solomon said. "His expression went dull and he simply brought the paper with the counter curse over and handed it to us. I was able to verify right away that it was the right one."

Arsenios glanced between the two of you. "I can also use my song to influence people's future actions. I don't think he'll be bothering you again."

There was something ominous about this statement, but you noticed how Arsenios met your eyes when he said it, instead of looking at Barbatos.

"I tried to convince Arsenios that he probably didn't need to do that," Solomon said, smile still in place. "But really I don't think it's going to cause any harm. I made sure to let Tobias know that we will not go easy on him should he return to the Devildom without permission again."

"You should still be careful, though," Arsenios said, his eyes back on Barbatos. "Don't go getting cursed again, okay?"

Barbatos nodded. "I understand. You have my word. Thank you both."

Arsenios turned to Solomon. "I admit that I wouldn't have known if that counter curse was the right one or not, so I guess it was a good thing you were with me."

Solomon laughed. "What a compliment! Don't strain yourself on my account, Arsenios. I know you find me annoying at best."

Arsenios stared at him for a moment, then he actually laughed. "Man, you are something else. Anyway, good luck with the counter curse, Barb."

Arsenios moved away to his own seat across the classroom while Solomon sat down nearby to get ready for class to start.

After RAD, Barbatos brought you back to the castle, ready to use the counter curse to break the threads. Solomon had offered to help with it, but Barbatos seemed content to take care of things himself. Solomon told you that should the counter curse prove ineffective for some reason, he still had the Night Dagger as an alternative option. All of you hoped it wouldn't come to that.

You were feeling apprehensive. It wasn't that you didn't believe the counter curse would work. It was more like you weren't sure how to deal with how it would feel when your connection to Barbatos was severed.

During the time you had been bound to him, you had observed Barbatos in a way you never had the chance to do before. Every day, you had been by his side as he worked, as you studied, and as both of you began to do things together, moving in sync in a way that you had never done with anyone else. And every night, you had walked in his memories or he had come to pull you out of them so you could sleep peacefully.

And now suddenly he wouldn't be by your side anymore. Or at least, you would be able to move away from him without it causing you pain. You would likely return to the House of Lamentation, which you admit you missed. But that would also mean you would have to readjust to your life the way it had been before all of this.

You stood across from Barbatos in one of the castle's many living rooms. He was frowning, reading the paper with the counter curse on it. Then he looked up at you. Barbatos extended a hand toward you, reciting the spell from the paper.

You saw the threads suddenly, bursting out from your chest still. You saw them rise where they coalesced into the single thread that ran through Barbatos. It rose and rose until -

Snap!

It broke.

And the threads that had been bursting from you, that had been a knot inside your chest, began to unravel. They fell around you, little strands of teal littering your arms, legs, the floor beneath you.

And it hurt.

You gasped and clutched at your chest, which felt like that empty yawning hollow that would form whenever you got too far away from Barbatos.

Barbatos was at your side, his arms on your shoulders.

You watched in horror as the threads turned black. They began to ooze, just like in your dream. You cried out and shoved at Barbatos.

"Get away!" you yelled, pushing on his chest. "Get away before it swallows you!"

Barbatos caught your hands. "MC, there's nothing there."

You looked at him with wild eyes, your chest throbbing, the black seeping toward him bit by bit. "You can't see it? It's going to consume you!"

The pain was dizzying and made it difficult to focus, causing you to simply react with desperation.

The black ooze seemed to freeze in a white light and there was an odd sharp note that rang through the air.

Although the pain was lessened, it still lingered. You managed to look up and a man you could only assume was Tobias stood behind Barbatos, hand extended, glowing with white light. His head was cocked slightly, as though he couldn't help listening to something.

Barbatos was instantly in demon form, his tail wrapping around you protectively as he turned to face Tobias.

"I do believe you were warned not to return to the Devildom," Barbatos said, his voice calm despite the tension in his body. Through the fog of your fear, you could feel the tail around you trembling with anger.

Tobias frowned. "If you think I'm afraid of Solomon and some singing demon, you miscalculated. The counter curse alerts me when it's used and there was always this little unpleasantness built into it. Your sweet MC will fall completely to the hallucinations, believing everything they ever loved to be fully consumed by darkness. I can release them from that torment… for a price."

Barbatos shook his head as though he felt sorry for the sorcerer. "You have been troublesome for quite some time now," he said. "Today you have finally gone too far."

The room was plunged into darkness and you would have fallen if Barbatos's tail hadn't been holding you up.

You looked around and found yourself in the same constellation filled sky of your dreams - the teal streams moving through it as always.

Barbatos was practically glowing with teal light. Tobias instantly dropped his own spell, which brought your pain back full force. Through it you could see Tobias gripping his head with both hands, as though he was experiencing some horrific torment.

"As there was a secret in your counter curse, so there was a secret in Arsenios's song," Barbatos said. "The notes you're hearing now are tied to my power. You must choose to find a way to deal with the loss of your loved one without time travel. Make that choice, release MC, and I will return you to the human world where you belong, unharmed."

"And if I refuse?" Tobias demanded through gritted teeth.

Barbatos shook his head. "It is best if you do not even contemplate that option."

Tobias fell to his knees. You couldn't hear the song that was apparently playing in his head, but it seemed he was suffering even more than you were.

He cast a spell and the pain inside you lifted, though you noticed there was still a single thread running through you. And although the pain was gone, the empty feeling wasn't.

Barbatos opened a portal there and Tobias stumbled through it, clearly desperate to end the sounds that were playing in his mind.

Everything around you felt off, your heart still ached in a way that was worse than what your body had endured.

"Barbatos," you cried out, reaching toward him.

Barbatos turned to you, pulling you into his arms and pressing you against his chest, his tail still wrapped around you.

And suddenly, you were at peace. That last lost thread had simply gone back inside your chest. It filled the empty yawning hole, making you complete again.

You were breathing hard as you slowly calmed down, tears of pain and fear streaking your face. Your arms were clasped around Barbatos tightly and you were afraid to let go.

After a few moments, you leaned your forehead on Barbatos's shoulder. "I'm okay," you whispered.

Gently, you felt yourself being moved through space and once again you were in the Demon Lord's Castle.

"Even after Tobias released you, there was still a single thread trapped in me," Barbatos said softly. "But that magic belonged to you. It was fighting to return to you. Forgive me, MC. It was difficult for your magic to move through my timescape."

"You knew that the sorcerer would show up," you said.

Barbatos smiled. "Solomon suggested that there might be such an issue with a counter curse written by the sorcerer himself. So Arsenios added an extra layer to his song that allowed me to force Tobias to set you free. It was a precaution."

You sighed, feeling heavy. "I hope that he leaves you alone now. This has been tiring."

Barbatos didn't move away, only waited for you to gather yourself, waited for you to pull away first. When you finally did, he shifted out of demon form. You could see that this situation had taken a toll on him, though he hid it well.

Barbatos smiled at you again. You could see the small hint of weariness in it. "That was quite the ordeal, I'm afraid. Shall we have some tea to calm ourselves?"

You agreed immediately.

masterpost | chapter one

chapter eight and a half | chapter ten

masterlist | Thank you for reading!

#obey me #obey me nightbringer #omswd #obey me barbatos #barbatos obey me #om barbatos #obey me barbatos x reader #obey me barbatos x mc #barbatos x reader #barbatos x mc #the threads that bind #misc writes #misc oc arsenios

[mymoodwriting]

11.7k, yandere, vampires, memory manipulation, drugs, disassociation, needles, kidnapping, self-inflicted wounds, restraints, knives, blood (@starillusion13)

Welcome to Happy Vampire Village

    The name was silly, but you understood why they had chosen it. When the vampires revealed themselves to the world, everything changed. They were no longer a fairy tale, but a very real being that had quietly lived alongside humans for centuries. It wouldn’t be so easy to hide in the modern world, but they also saw that humans had changed. Now all they wanted was to peacefully coexist without either side living in fear of the other. Of course that was easier said than done, so this lovely little place had been set up. A small village where vampires and humans could live together, to show that they weren’t bad.

    You couldn’t really remember why you had agreed to it, but here you were. The idea was to live with them in this village for a few months and then share your experiences with the world. Although it was just you, one human living with eleven other vampires. The first few weeks were certainly awkward on your end. The boys were all very friendly with you, too friendly, in their attempts to ease your worries. Honestly you didn’t really believe they were vampires at first until you stayed up late one night with them and saw more than you were ready to handle. It seemed they came alive once the sunset.

    Their eyes had a crimson glow, and they proudly showed you their fangs. You understood they could still eat human food, and enjoy it, but their main food source was blood. They had their own specialized food and drinks that were laced with blood, as they didn’t want to straight up drink blood in front of you. Once you got to really see them as what they really were, it really helped break the tension. They were like you, they just had a different diet, and could do things that you couldn’t. Looking at it that way, you found yourself coming to terms with the fact vampires were real, and for the next few months they’d be your next door neighbors.

“Morning, y/n!”

“Morning, Sangyeon!”

“Did you sleep well?”

“Yup. My arm feels a bit sore, but otherwise I’m fine.”

“That’s good to hear. Breakfast is all set out so you can come join us.”

“Great.”

    Since the idea was for everyone to get along, you shared all your meals together. There was a big open area behind one of the houses with multiple tables put together. Everyone took turns cooking throughout the day, getting help from others as well. Although they were all way better cooks than you, which was funny considering they didn’t need human food. Still, it was a great talking point and something to make you feel more at ease around them. If you didn’t know they were vampires, you’d probably never figure it out.

“How are you guys so good at cooking? You don’t even need human food.”

“But we still enjoy it.” Juyeon explained. “Not to mention we lace it with blood, so it’s important to know how to make it right.”

“Ah, that makes sense.”

“You’re a pretty good cook yourself.”

“Thanks. I had to teach myself to cook if I was gonna be able to live on my own.”

“How long have you had your own place?”

“Uh, a while now. I’ve lived alone since my second year of Uni.”

“And what were you studying?” Eric asked. “Perhaps the arts so you could be a TV star?”

“I don’t think I’m made for TV.”

“You never know.”

“Eric.” Sangyeon hissed. “Behave.”

“I know, I know, I was just saying.”

“What about you guys? I know it’d be silly to ask how old you are, but what exactly did you get up to while in hiding? What did you do to pass the time?”

“Everything and anything.” Kevin began. “Study, learn to play instruments, or sports. With practically endless time you can fully invest yourself in anything of your choosing.”

“Lucky. I wish I could do as I please, but I was wondering if you had a job or something.”

“It’s difficult for us to have a job.” Jacob added. “We have to constantly hide our true selves, and it wouldn’t be easy to socialize with other humans.”

“You have a point. It sounds lonely though.”

“We had each other.”

    After breakfast you helped wash the dishes. There were plenty of group activities to participate in to pass the time. Although, since quite some time had passed, Sangyeon suggested fixing up the houses. A new coat of paint, adding some lights, a big group project for everyone to participate and show their personalities through their preferences. You were excited as you had never done something like this before. The first day of the project you all figured out how you wanted to proceed, picking out the colors and planning what to put where.

    When you actually started you decided to work on the painting. At first you painted the outside walls with Younghoon, both of you making conversation. He seemed to have experience in all this so he guided you on how to do it properly and have fun with it. Of course the harder to reach parts required a smaller tool. Once the walls had dried you got on a ladder to paint the undersides of the roof. You were humming and in your own little world, not aware that the ladder was unstable, not until you lost your footing. You yelled, expecting to hit the ground, but instead found yourself in someone’s arms.

“Hyunjae?”

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah… yeah, thanks.”

“You should be more careful, we wouldn’t want you getting hurt.”

“But I’m okay thanks to you.”

“True.”

    No one allowed you back up on a ladder, so you stuck to the groundwork for the rest of the day. Good progress had been made so you had a campfire at night to celebrate. After roasting marshmallows you all sat around. Haknyeon handed you a glass of lemonade to cool down. The afternoons were hot, and even if the nights were cool, you could always use something more to wind down. The lemonade was always delicious, and you wished Jacob would share his secret with you. He wouldn’t but he assured you it was safe for you to drink.

“You guys live in big houses don’t you?”

“Yup.” Juyeon said. “Why do you ask?”

“You must have done a lot of redecorating over the years as new trends came to be and all that.”

“Oh yeah, it was always a hassle but fun too, just like this.”

“It’s getting late.” Sangyeon mentioned. “You should get to sleep y/n.”

“Yeah, you’re right, busy day tomorrow.”

    You smiled and wished everyone a good night, heading back to your own little house. It was easy to fall asleep as you were tired and looking forward to tomorrow. The night was peaceful and you were ready for the morning. Once again no one let you on a ladder, but there was still plenty to do. Some things were being torn down and rebuilt, so without realizing you ended up nicking the palm of your hand on something. You yelled, and then immediately started worrying. This was the first time you had hurt yourself here, and it was probably the first time they had smelled fresh blood in a while.

    You were scared, and quickly wanted to get back to your place so you could clean yourself up. As you rounded a corner though you came face to face with Chanhee, his eyes glowing red which you knew wasn’t normal during the day. His gaze was only on you for a moment before he looked over at your hand. You pulled it close to your chest, taking a few hurried steps back. You thought of running only to bump into someone else, Sunwoo. His eyes were red as well, making you all the more fearful. You wanted to say something but it was all getting caught in your throat.

“Y/n.”

    Sangyeon suddenly appeared and pulled you closer to him. He glared at the other two, baring his fangs and hissing at them. Before you knew it you were inside one of the houses, not yours, and were in the bathroom, Sangyeon having you run your hand under warm water.

“Are you okay?”

“I… yeah… I’m sorry…”

“For what?”

“My hand…”

“Are you saying you cut yourself on purpose?”

“No! But… fresh blood… Chanhee and Sunwoo…”

“I will scold them over that later.”

“Sorry…”

“You didn’t do anything wrong. It would have been a miracle to make it through all of this and not have you get hurt.”

“Still…”

“They’re still young, and fresh blood is always tempting. So don’t apologize for their lack of control. I smelled the blood immediately and would have stopped them.”

“Thank you.”

“Let’s disinfect the wound and then wrap it up.”

    Since Sangyeon seemed to know where everything was, you figured this was his place. He sat you down while he gently treated your wound and bandaged it up.

“Stay here for a bit while the blood flow slows down. I’ll have a word with the others.”

“Okay.”

    You didn’t hear anything about your injury since then, but on occasion you’d catch some of them staring at your bandages. You didn’t say anything about it either, not wanting to get any one in trouble. Things were as they were with no real changes, but celebrating a vampire’s birthday was something very unexpected. They didn’t share their age with you, but it was a good night for celebrations anyway.

“Happy Birthday to you!”

    Everyone cheered as the candles were blown out. It was gonna be a little bit of a celebratory night. You probably would have been up for hours if Haknyeon didn’t wind up bumping into you, causing you to spill your lemonade all over yourself.

“Oh shit, sorry.”

“It’s okay, I’m fine.”

“Probably need to call it a night.” Changmin commented as he came over with a rag. “You shouldn’t be in these kinds of clothes for long.”

“Yeah, I guess I should go to sleep. Don’t stay up and make so much noise.”

“We won’t.”

    You said your good nights and went home to shower and get to bed. You were tired from the day so you fell asleep easily, although you wound up waking up in the middle of the night. This was a first for you, and you were so groggy. You lazily got up and went to one of the windows that showed you the front. You could see the boys moving about, and you went over to the front door. You barely took a few steps outside before someone noticed you.

“Y/n, what are you doing awake?” Kevin asked. “You should be sleeping.”

“I… um… I don’t…”

“We’ll be quiet, okay, let’s get you back to bed.”

    Kevin gently led you back inside and into bed. He tucked you in and pressed a kiss to your head. You swore you saw a bit of red, but exhaustion pulled you under and you went back to sleep with ease.

❤

    The next morning felt like any other, and you didn’t really recall your late night stroll. No one else brought it up either, so it felt more like a dream. Everything else continued on as normal, and you forgot about the incident. That is until your next strange night. You were up late with the boys, having a bit of a festival. Jacob had given you a glass of lemonade to cool down with after some dancing, but before you could take a sip Chanhee pulled you away for more dancing. Another hour or so later you finally decide to call it a night, heading to bed. You were exhausted enough to fall asleep quickly, but woke up randomly a few hours later.

    You didn’t think too much of it, simply getting up and going to the kitchen to get yourself a glass of water. As you drank you stared out the window, doing a double take when you saw two people floating in the air. You nearly panicked before remembering that vampires could fly, they just didn’t do that when you were around. You watched them for a while, wondering what they were doing when a knock on the glass pulled you back down. Eric was standing outside with a smile on his face. He waved at you and motioned for you to open the window for him.

“What are you doing up?”

“No idea, I was thirsty though.”

“Well you should get back to sleep, don’t want you tired in the morning.”

“I could just sleep in.”

“The others would miss you.”

“As if you aren’t nocturnal creatures.”

“But we’re all together here and it’s important to socialize. This is all about you, remember?”

“Yeah… I’ll go back to bed, don’t worry.”

“Alright. Sweet dreams.”

    The glowing red eyes were something you had gotten used to, but not the flash of red. It always made you a bit dizzy, but it was nothing harmful. You went back to sleep with ease, but come morning there was something on your mind. In all the weeks you had been there so far you hadn’t had trouble sleeping until now. Even at the beginning when you were nervous to be around them you could still fall asleep with ease and get plenty of rest. Nothing had happened as of late that should affect your sleep. If anything things had gotten better, so it made this all the more troubling. It had been on your mind all day, and of course that wasn’t gonna go unnoticed.

“What’s on your mind?” Haknyeon asked. “You seem very quiet today.”

“Oh it’s nothing, just trying to figure something out.”

“Which is? Perhaps I could help?”

“Doubtful. Just had some weird nights and was trying to figure out why.”

“Maybe you slept on your arm or something, nothing to worry about really.”

“Don’t you all sleep in coffins though?”

“Occasionally… but you won’t find those here, I promise.”

You chuckled. “Would have been cool to see.”

“Speaking of cool.” Haknyeon disappeared for a moment. “Here. A little something to cool off.”

“Lemonade is the staple of this little village, huh?”

“Our special recipe.”

“Thanks.”

    Usually you get sick of things when you have them every day, but the lemonade was always refreshing and tasty. You tried not to focus on your sleep habits and enjoy the rest of the day. You turned in early, and thankfully had a peaceful night of sleep. Everyone had their sleepless nights, if anything it would be weird if you always slept well, so you stopped worrying about those nights. Even if you had troubles, you didn’t have any responsibilities that needed you to be well rested. You could always sleep during the day like a vampire if anything.

“How about a movie night?”

“Huh?”

“We haven’t had one in a while.” Younghoon explained. “Is there a movie you want to see, we can get it all set up for tomorrow night.”

“Not a bad idea, nothing scary though.”

“Fair.”

“But… how about an old vampire movie?”

“Seriously? You want to embarrass us?”

“I want your commentary.”

“Okay. I’ll ask Sangyeon and hopefully he won’t say no.”

“I’d be very upset if he did.”

“Noted.”

    You two got some lemonade and made a toast for good luck with tomorrow’s movie night. You drank first, Younghoon watching you before taking a sip of his drink. You were excited for the next night, managing to sleep well and wake up with a lot of energy. Sangyeon had agreed to your movie suggestion although the others weren’t aware of the film until it started and they all quickly looked over at you. A shy smile was on your face, but they could see that you were going to enjoy the night. Even though you had seen the movie before, you were so immersed because it was a new experience. You didn’t touch the popcorn or lemonade, just asking questions and listening intently as you got a glimpse into the vampire world.

    It was definitely a stay up late kind of night so at some point you ended up falling asleep. When you woke up you saw that you were still outside, and were all bundled up in a blanket. You looked around but didn’t see anyone else around. You managed to get up, keeping the blanket around you. Once you got up you knocked over the lemonade and popcorn around you. It had remained completely untouched so the smallest of movements made it fall over. Now that you were up you felt a bit thirsty, seeing other lemonades around and grabbing one. You only took a few sips before realizing it had a different taste. You were getting worried when a voice suddenly caught your attention.

“Y/n? What are you doing awake?”

    You dropped the drink from the fright and Juyeon quickly picked you up in his arms. His fast movements startled you, but you were alright for the most part. You were feeling a bit dizzy though, grabbing onto Juyeon.

“Easy there, are you alright?”

“Yeah… just… dizzy…”

“You should go back to sleep. You’ll feel better in the morning.”

“Hm…”

    You looked up at Juyeon to see his red glowing eyes, leaning against him. You weren’t feeling so good and shut your eyes. Some sleep would do you good, and hopefully you’d feel better tomorrow. That was the idea but you certainly felt sore in the morning. When you woke up you just stayed in bed for a while. You didn’t want to get up just yet, but you were also thinking about something else. The lemonade you had last night was different than what you were used to. Maybe it was because it had been left out for a couple hours, but something said there was more to it. There was only one way to find out really.

“Jacob.”

    After getting out of bed you went out to find Jacob. He was setting up his cute little stand so you were just in time.

“Hey, good morning, did you sleep well?”

“For the most part. I’m a bit sore but I’m okay.”

“That’s good to hear.”

“So, I was wondering if I could help you with your lemonade stand. You make lemonade for us every day and I haven’t had a chance to help you yet.”

“If you want to, I don’t mind the help.”

“Awesome.”

    You helped squeeze the lemons, although Jacob was still secretive with his recipe.  Before you even knew it he had made the lemonade, and came over to hand you a glass.

“Here you go. For all your help.”

“Thanks.”

    You gave Jacob a big smile, and took a sip. It tasted just like usual, and that’s what you expected. There were more glasses on the table, and when Jacob stepped away you went over and took one. As you feared it tasted different, but before you could really think about it Jacob came over and took the glass from your hand.

“What are you doing?”

“Why does it taste different?”

“Huh?”

“The lemonade. The one you gave me and the ones on the table have a different taste.”

“I… uh… there’s blood in it…” Jacob mumbled.

“What?”

“There’s blood… in the lemonade… except yours… the one specially made for you… that’s why it tastes different…”

“Oh…”

    You started feeling a bit sick over what you had tasted, running off before Jacob could say anything. Not to mention scolding yourself over jumping to conclusions. You weren’t alone for long before Chanhee found you. He had overheard everything, not surprising actually, the others probably knew too.

“Are you okay?”

“Fine… just feeling silly…”

“We probably should have mentioned it earlier. We just wanted the lemonade to be something we all shared naturally, but of course with our diets it would still be different.”

“I know… I just had other things in my head… I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to cause trouble.”

“You’d never do such a thing.”

    Even if you slept well you still felt silly over the whole lemonade incident. Although you didn’t really want to drink it anymore. The next day you played games all day, and focused on that. You were offered some lemonade multiple times but you never really drank it. You had lots of fun though, so by nightfall you were very exhausted. You would have thought you’d sleep through the night but instead you woke up. It was probably stress and the whole incident, but you tried to move past it. You got up and got a glass of water. As you looked out the window you didn’t see anyone around, so you decided to sneak out.

    You went over to the hillside, wanting to stargaze, but when you looked up there was a starless sky. It was all black, the only light coming from the lights by the houses. It was weird though, cause you could have sworn you’ve seen stars in the sky before. The last movie night you had came to mind, but maybe you were imagining things. You still stayed where you were, laying back on the grass and looking up at the sky. It was a peaceful night, and you were lost in your own head that you didn’t notice someone approaching. Not until they laid down next to you, looking over at you.

“Hello.”

“Sangyeon…”

“What are you doing here?”

“I wanted to stargaze, but there are no stars… I could have sworn there was.”

“Maybe you’re confusing it with a movie.”

“I think so too.”

“Anyway, you shouldn’t sleep out here. Come on, let’s get you to bed.”

    Sangyeon didn’t hesitate to pick you up in his arms, carrying you bridal style back to your place. You could never really get used to the red eyes, but you had to admit they looked nice. Something soothing to see before you fall asleep.

❤

    The next morning your arm felt sore, but you didn’t mind it. This time around you’d be helping out with breakfast, which was always quite a lot since it was for twelve. You were so busy that when you got thirsty you just grabbed the nearest drink and chugged it down. Then you grabbed another until you finally realized the taste. This wasn’t your lemonade, and the realization made you faint. By the time you came to you were in bed, and it seemed to be dark out. You looked over and saw Hyunjae and Changmin at your bedside. When they saw you were awake they jumped up.

“Y/n! Are you okay?”

“We were so worried about you.”

“Hm… what happened?”

“We don’t know, you just suddenly collapsed.”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to worry you guys. I was just lost in thought and ended up drinking your lemonade… when I realized I kind of freaked out…”

“Gosh, you really scared us.”

“Sorry…”

“As long as you’re okay.”

“Yeah… I should probably go back to sleep though.”

“We’ll let the others know you’re okay.” 

“Hold on a second.” Changmin went to get you a glass of water. “Here. You should have some water since you didn’t have much all day.”

“Thanks.”

    As you drank the water you noticed a strange taste similar to that of the lemonades. You didn’t say anything though and just thanked the two and went to sleep. Come morning your mind went back to the same issue about the lemonade. Something was wrong. You got out of bed and got yourself a glass of water. It tasted nothing like what you had last night, but presumably you got it from the same place. You couldn’t really go to any of them with your concerns, so just kept it to yourself. As you thought it over you looked back on the nights you had woken up, and if there was anything in common.

    You basically had lemonade every day, it was a staple in the little village, but now that you think about it, you didn’t actually drink it on the days you woke up in the middle of the night. It could just be a coincidence, but every other time you slept fine you could recall drinking the lemonade. This all sounded crazy to you, but there was a way for you to test it. That day you got your special glass of lemonade but you didn’t drink it, spilling it out onto the yard when no one was looking. As you feared you wound up waking up that night. It could be a one off, you needed to run more tests, so you decided to go back to sleep on your own.

    You were drifting off when you suddenly felt hands grab you. A loud scream ripped from your throat as you got up, seeing Sunwoo in your room. He screamed as well when you did, quickly apologizing though. That didn’t change the fact you were freaking out. There was no reason for him to be in your room, and all the yelling attracted attention. Soon enough the others had gathered as well, but you were still freaking out and yelling incoherently. Sangyeon came to your side and grabbed your shoulders, getting you to focus on him. As always those glowing eyes were mesmerizing, and he was getting you to do some breathing exercises with him so you could calm down.

“Are you okay?”

“I… I think so…”

“Good. Do you think you can explain to me what’s going on?”

“I… I don’t really know… I was trying to go back to sleep when I felt Sunwoo grab me…”

“Did he now? The boy must have been sleepy and thought this was his bed.”

“I… I guess…”

“He didn’t mean to scare you. Sunwoo apologize.”

“I’m so sorry…” Sunwoo apologized. “I wasn’t paying attention.”

“Okay… apology accepted…”

“There, see, nothing to worry about. Get back to bed okay.”

    Sangyeon tucked you in while the others headed out, some scolding Sunwoo under their breath. You were feeling sleepy so it was easy to just close your eyes and drift off. Although come morning, when you hadn’t woken up in a panic, and could properly put the pieces together. Something was wrong here. Last night, the incident with Sunwoo, was very strange and was making you feel uneasy. You couldn’t let anyone else know, so you did you best to act normal. You avoided the lemonade again, and just went about the day as usual. No one seems to suspect anything, and you decided to turn in early that day. You only pretend to go to sleep, waiting for the night to become quiet.

    Once you felt it was safe you snuck out. You didn’t see anyone around at all so you went out to the hillside. Truth was you didn’t trust this place anymore, you didn’t trust them. You kept low, carefully looking back to make sure you weren’t noticed. You had dressed in some sweatpants and a hoodie, hoping that would be alright. As you made your way down the hill you suddenly came to a stop. The sight before you terrified you. At the bottom of the hill, the grass just ended, the road ahead just smooth concrete leading into darkness. This didn’t make any sense, causing you to question everything you had known, but you couldn’t go back.

    You swallowed your fear and stepped onto the concrete. You gave it a moment to see if something happened, but nothing, so then it was just one foot after the other. After a bit of waking you get your phone out. There wasn’t much signal in the village, and you didn’t seem to have any here either, but at least you could use your flashlight. Before doing so you looked back, but it was mostly darkness. You turned the flashlight on and aimed it at the ground, moving slowly. You weren’t sure for how long you were walking for but eventually you came to some sort of wall. You slowly lifted up the light, seeing what appeared to be metal. You carefully reached out to touch it confirming it was real. It was a wall, which didn’t make sense, but surely there was a door somewhere.

    You picked a direction and followed it. You were scared with every step, wondering if you would find what you were looking for or not. When the structure suddenly changed you took a step back and could make out a door. You reached for the handle, feeling that this was a sliding door. You looked around in the darkness for a moment before carefully sliding it open. You didn’t know what awaited you on the other side, but it brought you to tears. Beyond the door was an empty lot, and as you stepped out you could see other buildings, but most of all you could see the sky. Stars and clouds hung above you as the tears slid down your cheeks. You looked back at the huge building you had just exited, feeling such panic rise in you. All you could do was run.

    You turned around and ran, wanting to get as far away from that place as possible. All this, being out here, those monsters had kept you locked up like some animal, playing house and acting like you were friends. For who knows how long you had been living a lie, and you had no idea how you wound up in their grasp. You just kept running, beyond the lot and finding a small town nearby. You could see cars driving on the streets, buildings, and people walking around. There was life there, although you were still too much in shock to just ask for help. You pulled up your hood and made your way over to the town, keeping your head low and looking around. Everyone seemed normal, going about their lives as if you hadn’t been held hostage nearby. Since nothing appeared out of the ordinary you thought it would be safe to find the nearest police station, but then you froze in your tracks.

“I don’t think I’m made for TV.”

    Hearing your own voice sent shivers down your spine. You looked around for the source, finding a bunch of kids gathered outside a store window. They were looking at the TVs on display in the store and you cautiously walked over to see what was playing. As you got closer you could make out the images, coming to see yourself on the screen, along with the other boys. As this scene played out you began to remember that day, mumbling the next words spoken to yourself before hearing them from the TV. This whole time your life had been filmed, and now it was on TV for everyone else’s entertainment. You couldn’t believe what you were seeing. You took a step back, feeling as if reality was fading in and out. Nothing made sense.

“Are you the girl from TV?”

    One of the kids who had been watching the TV had noticed you. He approached you, and soon the others were aware of you too. They all got closer, and one of them even leaned in to smell you.

“You are! You must be the human from TV!”

    The kids eagerly crowd around you and that’s when you finally realize their eyes were red. That shock gave you the energy to run and you bolted down the street, not looking back. You weren’t paying attention though and wound up running into a couple. You stumbled to the ground and your hood fell back, revealing your face.

“Oh, I’m sorry, are you- wait, are you… oh my gosh! Could I have a bite?”

    This time you were well aware of the red eyes the two individuals had. You ignored their words and quickly scrambled to your feet and ran off again. You had to get away from such a public area so you bolted into the nearest alleyway, but ended up tripping over something. When you looked back you saw a human leaning against the wall next to a trash bin. You both stared at each other and you noticed they didn’t have glowing eyes.

“Are you… are you human?”

“What? Never seen a homeless human before?”

    You didn’t think twice about rushing over to them, which greatly startled them. You didn’t mean to and quickly put your hands up.

“I… I’m sorry… I just… what is going on here… there are vampires… everywhere and… I don’t understand…”

“Where have you been living?”

    Even with the strange question, you got an answer. Vampires had revealed themselves to the world, but not in the way you had believed. They took over, seeing themselves as superior and basically turning humans into cattle. Some were even pets, and that seemed to answer the question of what you were.

“If humans got… taken away then how are you still on the streets?”

“We’ve avoided the hunters.” Another person popped out of the trash bin. “That’s the only way to stay out of those care homes and keep our freedom.”

“You two are together?”

“Yup. I’m Shane, and that’s Pete.”

“How long have you been on the streets?”

“A couple months now… maybe longer, honestly lost track of time.”

“So how… how do you survive out here? Can you help me?”

“Where are you from?” Pete asked. 

“It’s… it’s complicated…”

“It won’t be easy to feed another mouth.” Shane commented. “We barely manage on our own.”

“Please, I don’t have anywhere else to go…”

“Alright, fine.” Shane hops out of the trash bin and pulls up your hood. “Stay warm. We gotta lay low, that’s the most important.”

“Okay…”

“Come on then, we can stay out in the open like this for too long.”

    You didn’t really hesitate to follow them deeper into the alley. They led you into an abandoned building. They found a place to start a fire, safely as they explained to you, and settled around it. You helped find some cardboard and newspaper, needing something to sit on besides the cold floor.

“Here.” Pete offered you bread. “You need to eat.”

    This wasn’t what you were used to, but you were grateful. It was better than nothing. You took the bread and thanked him. As you ate and stared at the fire you couldn’t help but think back to the campfires you used to sit around. The fire itself was the same, burning bright and hot, but your circumstances had changed. You really tried not to cry but you couldn’t help the tears. Once you finished eating you laid down on the cardboard, watching the fire and slowly dozing off. Then you suddenly jumped up as you felt a pinch around your neck. You looked around in a panic thinking something had bit you, but then you realized you were completely alone.

    The other two were gone, as were the belongings they had with them. You pulled your legs up to your chest, feeling that fear of being alone, and worst of all abandoned. There was nowhere else for you to go and now you were really on your own. You noticed a small bag next to the fire and reached over to it, finding some food inside and a note. It explained that they couldn’t risk having someone else with them, but that they wished you luck. They don’t know what your situation was but they told you there wasn’t any shame in surrendering to the hunters and going to a care house.

    The problem was you didn’t want to go back with any vampires, so you were going to have to figure out how to survive on the streets all on your own. You really did need to sleep though, so you laid back down, trying to get comfortable when you heard a noise. Now you were on alert and looking around. You got up and found something to swing like a bat, carefully taking in your surroundings. When you suddenly felt a presence behind you, there was no hesitation in your swing. You were worried about hurting someone, but you weren’t expecting the person to catch your weapon, let alone be a familiar face.

“Haknyeon…”

    He ripped the weapon away from you, and then he had his hand around your throat. His grip was firm, and you soon found it difficult to breathe.

“You my dear, are in a world of trouble for the stunt you’ve pulled.”

“Let her go.” Sangyeon ordered. “It’s not your turn.”

    Just as he was told, Haknyeon let you go and you collapsed to the ground catching your breath. You were gasping in air when you were suddenly grabbed. For a moment you stared into Sangyeon’s red eyes, and then he was on your neck. You felt a pinch and yelled from the initial sting before you were suddenly overwhelmed by this euphoric feeling. The scream died down, replaced by a ragged moan and a dizzy feeling.

“There, that should keep her docile. Let’s go.”

“But what about-”

“Later, Chanhee. We should get home first.”

    Your vision was a blur, but you could vaguely make out Jacob picking you up in his arms. You had no idea where this home was, although all that came to mind was the village. You were taken out of the building and into another alleyway. Jacob was careful to put you into the back seat of a car, having you rest against Kevin’s shoulder. You could feel the car move beneath you, vaguely making out the world outside the window. At first you could see buildings but then that all turned to trees and soon enough you had arrived. This time Changmin got you out of the car and you found yourself before a very big house.

“… where…”

“Sh, we’re home now.” Changmin assured.

“You know where to take her.” Sangyeon said.

“Of course.”

    Everything felt like a dream as you were carried up the steps and through the front door. The house was just as big on the inside, like a mansion. You didn’t know much about luxury, but from what you could see, this place was fancy. You were taken into a room and laid down on some kind of medical table. Before you could really process you felt your arms and legs being strapped down.

“… wait… wait…”

“Just calm down, we’re not gonna hurt you.”

    Those words didn’t really provide comfort. Especially once you saw the needle and watched it go into your arm. You started pulling on your restraints then, only for them to take advantage of your distracted state and push a gel pill into your mouth. It dissolved on your tongue, and you froze upon recognizing the taste. You had this before in every glass of lemonade they had made for you. This was what they had been giving you for weeks.

“Sorry, but you need to take that.”

    You wanted to say something to them, even yell, but you were starting to feel drowsy. Without wanting to, your body relaxed against the table, and you began to have trouble keeping your eyes open. Soon enough you drifted off to sleep in a very unfamiliar place. You didn’t know how long you were out for, but when you regained consciousness your vision wasn’t as blurry. That’s when you noticed the blood bags, and looked down at your arm. They had been drawing blood from you this whole time, every night as far as you knew. It didn’t even make sense, it shouldn’t be possible.

“Oh, I see someone’s awake.” Eric smiled. “Hi beautiful.”

“… what… what is this…”

“Don’t worry, it’s just routine, but you don’t remember that right now.”

    Younghoon came over to your side and removed the needle, placing a soft kiss on your arm where a drop of blood bloomed. He liked his lips and smiled at you, sending shivers down your spine. Juyeon then came over and undid your restraints, pulling you into his arms. He carried you out of the room and to another one. It seemed like a bedroom, and you were placed down on the bed. He was going to leave you to rest but you grabbed onto his arm.

“… what’s going on… why did you lie to me… what… what’s real…”

“Sangyeon can answer all your questions after you eat.”

    A while after Juyeon left, Eric came in with a food cart. He had you sit back on the bed, placing a tray in front of you. As you moved to lift your arm you got a familiar sore feeling, further confirmation as to what they had been doing with you. Eric noticed you were struggling and decided to feed you himself, which you accepted. It was weird, but you were hungry, and feeling so weak from the blood loss. When you had your fill Eric tried to get you to sleep but you refused. You wanted to talk to Sangyeon before anything else.

“You should really get some sleep.”

“I feel like I’m always sleeping…”

“Touché. I’m rather busy, but I always have time for you.” Sangyeon sat down at your bedside. “So what is it you want to ask?”

“I want you to explain.”

“Explain what?”

“Everything.”

“Well, where do I even start?”

“You could start by telling me if anything of what I believe is real.”

“Good choice.”

    Sangyeon was honest with you, or at least you believed he was, there was no way for you to know otherwise. He told you that vampires had been living in hiding for hundreds of years, but decided to make their presence known as it was becoming clear to them humans couldn’t take care of themselves, or the planet. They’re not monsters so their methods were kind, and humans were now well taken care of and the planet itself was also thriving.

“So we’re your pets.”

“Not quiet. You’re more like-”

“Cattle?”

“You are really trying to make us out as monsters.”

“Isn’t blood your food source? Doesn’t that just make us cattle to you.”

“But you’re not animals. It’s true we do need your blood, but why would we be so cruel to our food source? Humans are well cared for. If you’d like I could perhaps arrange a visit to a care house and you could see for yourself.”

“This isn’t a care house, is it? So what am I?”

“You, well, you are our pet.” Sangyeon gently caressed your cheek. “Not every vampire can have one, but we can. You’re our special little girl.”

“Is that why I’m on TV?”

“Hm? Who told you that?”

“I saw it! My face on a screen with the rest of you! My life on display for entertainment!”

“Easy now, there’s no harm-”

“Why does that exist!?”

“Why else? We like to show you off, and it’s good money. Everyone has fun, and your blood.” Sangyeon took your hand and kissed your wrist. “It’s worth quite a lot. You’re famous.”

“So my whole life… it’s been a lie…”

“Not quiet. We’ve simply made it so you believed what we wanted you too. It’s very important as it makes the show, and your performance, all the more authentic.”

“You’re a monster.”

“You don’t mean that. You don’t even remember what your life is actually like.”

“Make me.”

“I’m afraid I can’t do that.”

“Why!?”

“We still have a lot of work to do since our filming schedule has been interrupted. It’s better for you to remain this way until we wrap everything up.” Sangyeon took a breath. “You have caused quite a lot of trouble, but perhaps something good can come out of it. But first, I need to know how you realized you were on a set.”

“…”

“Answer me.”

    A moment ago you were just having a conversation, but now Sangyeon was glaring at you with glowing red eyes. It sent a chill down your spine, making you very nervous.

“It was the lemonade.”

“What?”

“It had a weird taste… and my sleep schedule was questionable… then there was the incident with Sunwoo… and the lack of stars in the sky… I knew there was something wrong…”

“Hm. Impressive. You picked up on a bunch of little things out of the ordinary and put the pieces together. I’ll keep that in mind.”

“How did you find me though… I was only gone for a few hours…”

“It was at night. We clean up at the end of the day and take you home. It wasn’t long before we realized no one had gotten you. We searched all over, and then found one of the back doors opened. We could have just tracked you by scent but with your memories things would be more troublesome, so we used the tracking chip.”

    Instinctively you reached up to your neck, remembering that jolt of pain you had back in the abandoned building.

“I’m not some animal!”

“But you’re our pet, and plenty of owners tag their pets. We wouldn’t want to lose you now would we. You’re too precious and valuable.” Sangyeon chuckled and pet your head. “Thankfully you’re not on the news or social media, so this wasn’t as big of a mess as it could have been. You should get some sleep though, you still need to recover from the blood loss.”

    You didn’t have much of a choice as Sangyeon tucked you into bed, giving you a kiss on your head before leaving you to rest. You laid in bed and stared up at the ceiling, wondering what had happened to the world, and what had happened to you. Even if you didn’t want to sleep you couldn’t deny the fact you were still tired. You weren’t going to go anywhere, so you might as well use this chance to sleep and gather your strength.

❤

    When you woke up later you were feeling better, so you got out of bed. You looked around the room, opening the closet to find it filled with all kinds of luxury clothes and accessories. It was all your size too which made it more creepy. You quickly shut the door, not wanting to see any of that. You also didn’t want to stay in this room, so you carefully peeked out into the hall, seeing that it was empty. You made your way out, wandering around. The place was pretty huge, although you stopped to stare at a picture on the wall. The picture was of you and the boys, and you had a big smile on your face.

“What are you doing out of bed?”

    You jumped as Hyunjae startled you, having found some way to sneak up on you. Then again as a vampire it was probably easy for him to move around undetected, not to mention you were distracted.

“I’m fine.”

“You sure?”

“I’ve slept enough.”

“Then how about some snacks. There’s-”

“Who is she?”

“What?”

“Her.” You pointed at yourself in the picture. “Who is she? Where is she!?”

“Hm… well I guess you can say she’s sleeping…”

“Wake her up!”

“I can’t.”

“What is wrong with you? All of you? Did she agree to this, to be-”

“Yes.”

“What?”

“You, or I guess her, she did agree to this.” 

“…”

“What? You think we just rearranged your memories cause we can? No, this was a group decision. Even though this wasn’t supposed to happen.”

“Obviously. I still can’t believe I agreed to something like this.”

“Then how about a snack to take your mind off it.”

    Before you could object Hyunjae took your hand and dragged you over to the kitchen. It was just as big as you would expect in this place. You felt like you had snuck into a restaurant kitchen. As you looked around Hyunjae rummaged through the cabinets until he found some snacks, handing them over to you, which was surprising.

“What? The snacks were for you, not me.”

“Oh… I… I thought… you were gonna… you know…”

“We can’t all feed off you, but we can draw blood.”

“That doesn’t make sense… you drew blood from me practically every night… that’s not possible.”

“It’s cause of that pill you took.”

“What?”

“It makes you sleepy but also helps replenish your blood faster. Perfectly harmless and very effective. We can draw blood more than once every two months, and no we didn’t do it every night either.”

    Hyunjae went over to the fridge and grabbed a blood, opening it up and then hopping onto the counter top. He took a big sip and let out a content sigh.

“Your blood is so sweet.”

“Is that why you chose me?”

“No. It’s just a bonus.”

“Then… why…”

“You were very cute. We went to a care house because we wanted someone here with us since it didn’t have to be just us anymore.” Hyunjae took another sip from the blood bag. “It wasn’t easy though. The amount of paperwork we had to do just to get into the building and see you all.”

“What papers?”

“The basics, like proof that we could care for a human. That we’d be able to provide a good and healthy diet, as well as clothed them, and that we had a good environment for them to live in. Along with other things depending on the human. We had specialists all over the house inspecting it to make sure we were responsible and not lying on the papers.”

“I didn’t know you had to go through all that just to have a pet human…”

“Not everyone can just have one. It’s a big responsibility, and not all vampires have good self control. It is just our nature, and all the more reason to keep your kind safe.” Hyunjae smiled at you. “With all that done we finally got a chance to look around. That’s when we found you, all quiet and alone, sitting in the corner reading a book. When we approached you seemed so uninterested in us. You weren’t scared or anything like that. You seemed to be quite happy since you had all this time for yourself to do as you pleased. We offered you a comfy home so you could have all that and more. So you asked your cute little questions. If you could read all the books you wanted, or paint out in a garden, or watch TV all day or spend a whole day sleeping. Of course the answer to all that was yes, and you know what you said?”

“What?”

“I’ll think about it. We were all so surprised, but it made us all the more interested in you. So one of us went by to see you every day until you finally decided to come home with us. Gosh, the look on your face when you say this place, you were so in love. You had so much space, and such luxurious things. If you weren’t busy with something we would always find you wandering around the halls. Tell me, does any of that sound like you?”

“… maybe… but what about the show?”

“Ah, that. Sunwoo wanted to do something in film, and you suggested a comedy.”

“Wait, it was my idea?”

“More or less. You figured it would be fun if the theme was like a human living with a bunch of vampires and the shenanigans that would come from it.”

“No way…”

“Yeah, and it’s a big hit. Happy Vampire Village. We all did it more for fun but it was a big hit. Everyone adores you.”

��So… I’m famous?”

“Yup. And since you’re around right now, Sangyeon was thinking of taking you to this gala thing that’s coming up.”

“No thanks…”

“Well it’s not entirely up to you.”

“Yo.” Kevin poked his head into the kitchen. “What are you two doing?”

“Just snacking.” Hyunjae answered. “What’s up?”

“Nothing, just wondering if you wanted to hang out. I was gonna get some snacks and watch TV, you in?”

“Absolutely.”

    Kevin and Hyunjae grabbed some more snacks and then took you into this home theater room. They were channel surfing and you were vaguely paying attention until you saw yourself on screen. You asked to go back, watching yourself for a moment, remembering everything you saw since this was your life. You couldn’t do it for long though, excusing yourself cause you wanted to be alone. You wandered the halls, figuring you’d find your way back to your room eventually. Although you noticed a door open and heard some clicking noises.

    You slowly approached and poked your head into the room. There was low light and you saw Chanhee sitting in front of a monitor. As you looked closer you realized you were on the screen again, and apparently he was editing footage. You caught glimpses of this behind the scenes stuff. To a degree it was interesting, but horrifying as well. Every moment you had spent in the village was recorded. You had no privacy at all. That realization brought tears to your eyes and you ran off to hide, just wanting to be away from any lights or prying eyes.

“I’m sorry we can’t play hide and seek.”

    You had been curled up on the floor, hugging your knees to your chest and hiding your face when you heard a voice.  You didn’t even look at them, but could feel their presence as they sat down next to you.

“Cause of the chip?”

“Your heartbeat.”

“I hate this place.” You looked up to see Jacob. “It’s like a bad dream.”

“Sorry. We should have done better to make sure this never happened in the first place.” Jacob softly pet your head. “I promise it won’t happen again.”

“Well, I don’t want to do it.”

“Y/n-”

“How long is that show supposed to go for anyway?”

“Well, going along with your memory, I think there’s only like a month or two left. This was always a side project anyway.”

“And when it’s over? Then what?”

“We have to finish up the show first. We’ll end up erasing your memories to do that.” 

“So all this explaining is kind of pointless.” 

“Yeah, but it’s important that you feel at ease.”

“I feel like I’m gonna die.”

“I’m sorry… we didn’t mean to make things scary.”

    Jacob sat with you for a while before convincing you to go back to your room. It was probably better to be there anyway. Soon enough you were alone again just laying in bed and staring at the ceiling. You thought back on what you had been told, trying to make sense of it. Truth was that the world was so scary to you because it was foreign. Nothing really seemed to be bad. Nobody tried to hurt you, or was mean to you while you were on the streets. Then again you weren’t out there for long. Even now you were living quite comfortably, so you couldn’t know for sure what the world was like.

    You wanted to know, to see for yourself, but it was kinda pointless. Apparently you were happy here, but you just don’t remember. You were nervous and scared now, but deep down you had this sense of ease, making you wonder if you should trust the boys. While lost in thought Haknyeon suddenly came into your room. He let you know that you would be attending a gala tomorrow so they needed to figure out your outfit. You didn’t have a say in the matter as he pulled you out of bed and had you stand in front of the mirror. He went through your closet picking out some dresses and seeing what looks best.

“Do I have to go?”

“Yes. Everyone wants to see you, and you don’t have to worry about anything. Just smile and be positive. You can’t talk about the show anyway since we’re not done filming.”

“So I’m just arm candy?”

“Not exactly, but I’m sure you’ll have fun.”

“Doubtful, but I don’t have a choice in the matter.”

    The next day you were up early as you had a lot to prepare for. You were given a bath first thing. It was a deep clean and very relaxing, you honestly didn’t want to get out of the tub. Breakfast was a delight, and very filling, kind of reminding you of the good times back at the village. Although there wasn’t much time for reminiscing as you had to get your hair done, and get dressed, along with makeup and accessories. You never really had a moment to catch your breath until later in the evening. 

    The boys were all dressed in suits, looking very handsome. You thought you’d ride in one of their cars, but should have realized you’d be taking a limo. Even though you didn’t want to go, you were nervous about this whole event. You weren’t a random guest, but someone many were looking forward to seeing. As you arrived at the venue it became more apparent. All the boys reassured you that you looked amazing, and to not be nervous. Just smile and be polite, and no spoilers. The boys stepped out of the limo first, and you were the last, taking Sangyeon’s hand and being met by the flashing lights of the cameras.

    It caught you off guard at first but once you adjusted you could see more of your surroundings. As far as you could tell the venue was this museum, and the red carpet led you up the stairs towards the entrance. Many were calling your name and asking you to look towards them with a smile. You weren’t sure if you were smiling, but Sangyeon wasn’t really letting you stop to pose for a photo. You did manage to wave though, and that seemed to be good enough. Although once you entered the museum the atmosphere changed.

    The other attendees were happy to see you and said hello, but they mostly seemed interested in the boys. It made sense, they were of the same species and in here you really were more of a pet than some celebrity. You shook some hands and kept a smile, also being reminded not to give spoilers. Still, after the initial greetings the boys just kept you close while they mingled with others. Some calm music filled the air, along with business chatter. You didn’t care for any of it, but you were kind of hungry. As you reached for something on the table Changmin was quick to stop you.

“That’s not for you, sweetie.”

“Huh?”

“Vampire food isn’t good for you. I should probably take you over with the others.” Changmin took your hand in his. “Come now.”

    You were confused, but you followed behind Changmin. He took you to another part of the museum. You came across some security guards, which was strange to you, and then you found yourself in this smaller area. It seemed just like the main area, but with fewer people. Before you could ask what this was you got your answer.

“These are the other humans in attendance tonight. So mingle and have fun.”

    So this was basically the pet daycare. It annoyed you, but you wanted food more than anything so you went to get some. You feared maybe you’d get some attention here, but besides the occasional glance in your direction, no one paid you much attention. You were thankful for that, these types of things weren’t your scene. So you just sat quietly at an empty table and kept to yourself. You wished you had something to distract yourself with besides food, but soon enough you had company. Another woman came over to your side and sat next to you.

“You’re pretty quiet for a celebrity.”

“I don’t really feel like one…”

“Your fame is rather complicated.”

“Tell me about it.”

“It is weird though, isn’t it, for us all to be here. All the humans gathered in one place while the vampires have their party too.”

“Well, we are their pets after all.”

“And that’s not right. Just because those creatures think they’re better than us, doesn’t mean they are.”

“I mean… they’re pretty powerful.”

“But not immortal. They can still die.”

“Huh… you’re pretty hostile for a pet…”

“Wanna know a secret.” She leaned in close. “I’m not a pet.”

“If… if you’re not a pet… then how… what-”

“You think humans have just given up? There is still a resistance out there. We shouldn’t be living like this. We were once top of the food chain, and now this? We could have been equals with vampires but they chose to take over. They’re cruel creatures who claim to care for humans but I don’t buy it.” She leaned close and tapped your neck. “You know that’s not just some tracking chip in you.”

“What?”

    As you processed her words she took your hand and led you out of the room into the hall. It was just the two of you. Before you could ask she told you not to worry about security. They don’t see you as a problem or a threat so they won’t care about you two being out here. She stopped over by some statue, getting something from a hidden compartment. You didn’t recognize the device in her hand but you took a step back.

“What… what is that…”

“It won’t hurt much.”

    You don’t know what she did but you suddenly felt a pinch on your neck, reaching over to the area of pain.

“What did you do!?”

“I disabled your chip. Besides tracking you like some dog, it also functioned as an inhibitor. Makes it very hard to have any negative emotions or complex thinking with that thing. It keeps you docile and happy, like some kind of lobotomy.”

“No… no the wouldn’t…”

“You should come with me.”

“What… why?”

“I’m not some pet, I snuck into this event to find you, to help you.”

“… wa… what does that mean?”

“The vamps always parade you around, and with all your popularity you’re basically the face of human subjugation. You’re not some show dog.” Hearing all that started to make you feel guilty. “You can get away from this all and be free.”

“I… I don’t know… they’ve messed with my memories and I’m not sure about all this…”

“Really? That’s all the more reason to get away.”

“But I agreed to it…”

“Sure you did. Not like they have the power to compel you.”

“I don’t know…”

“Come with me. You can’t really make decisions for yourself with those creatures around you.”

    You were honestly considering her proposition. When you first discovered you were living in a false reality you wanted to run away. They caught you and took you back to a world you were unfamiliar with and this was your chance to get back out there and see the truth for yourself. You weren’t sure what the right thing to do was, and as you thought it over you heard your name being called.

“Y/n!”

    You jumped at the sound of your own name, and before you knew it the girl you were with was tackled to the ground. The security guard was pinning her down when you were suddenly flipped around.

“Are you okay?”

“I… how did you find me…”

“What?” Sunwoo questioned. “After your little stunt did you think we wouldn’t be keeping a close eye on your chip?”

“I-”

    Before you could say anything you heard a yell and looked back to find a surprising scene. The women had broken away from the guard, a silver blade in each hand. Once she was on her feet she didn’t hesitate to throw a blade in your direction. You screamed but Sunwoo pulled you into his embrace and turned you around to protect you. He held you tightly and after a moment pulled back.

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah… yeah…”

“Go after her!” Sunwoo yelled. “Now.”

“Sir-”

“I’ll be fine!”

    The security guard chased after the woman, but you were wondering what the other meant. That’s when you noticed a blade sticking out of Sunwoo’s back. You screamed and started to worry, but he told you to calm down.

“You’re hurt…”

“It’s okay, it’s nothing serious.”

“I’m sorry.”

“This isn’t your fault.”

“Still…”

“Come on, let’s get back to the others.”

    Even though he said he was alright you could tell he wasn’t. He was hunching over and leaning against you.

“Sunwoo…”

“I’m fine.”

“You don’t look it… you need blood… don’t you?”

“Y/n…”

    You didn’t really listen to him, helping him down onto his knees. You apologized before grabbing the blade and pulling it out. Sunwoo yelled and threw a glare at you, eyes glowing red. He grabbed your arm holding the blame.

“Don’t… I’ll be fine…”

“I don’t trust that…”

    You pulled away from Sunwoo’s grasp. You wiped the blood of the blade and took a moment to prepare yourself before slicing open your palm. You winced from the pain, but held out your hand for him. He didn’t want it, but you knew he would need it, so you pressed your bloody palm against his wrist. Once he tasted blood he couldn’t help himself. He drank, grabbing a hold of your arm and holding you close. When he pulled back to catch his breath you could already see he was better. Although before you could say anything he lunged at you and pinned you to the ground.

“Sunwoo-”

    He sunk his fangs into your neck, making you yell before this feeling of ecstasy began to take over. You wrapped your arms around Sunwoo, your vision beginning to fade as your head swam. You tried to speak but you didn’t have the strength to form words and slowly, your world became black.

❤

“What the hell were you thinking!”

    You began to regain consciousness as sounds of yelling filled your ears. You looked around, vaguely able to make out the limo you were in, and felt the rumbling of movement.

“I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to be she-”

“That’s not an excuse!”

“… sorry…” You mumbled. “… my fault…”

“Y/n, you’re awake.”

    You had been sitting on the floor, in between Sangyeon’s legs and resting your head on his thigh. Once he realized you were awake he gently caressed your cheek.

“Are you alright?”

“Hm… I was… just trying… to help…”

“Your actions were crazy. You should never do something like that.”

“Sorry…”

“Just take it easy, you’re okay.”

“… what… the other…”

“She got away, but she’s not your concern.”

“Okay…”

“You just rest and focus on getting better.”

    The next couple of days you did spend in bed. Since you hadn’t taken the pill, and Sunwoo went a bit overboard, your body had to go about recovery the natural way. You ate in your room, getting help until you could feed yourself. Once you could get out of bed you were able to walk around the house, with some help of course. You were told that the events at the gala were kept under wraps, so there was nothing to worry about in regards to that.

“I want to go to a care house.”

“What?”

“I want to see what it looks like.”

“You’re not in a condition to be going out.”

“But I need to know.”

“Hm…” Sangyeon pondered it over. “Fine.”

    You still had to wait until you were capable of walking on your own before Sangyeon would keep his word. You weren’t sure what to expect, so it was all quite a surprise. The facility was huge, and you basically went on a tour. You saw how everyone had their own room, and a few items as well. They were given so many activities to fill their time with, both indoor and outdoor. This whole place seemed like a community home.

“Vampires mostly leave the humans to themselves. We only draw blood from them once a week.”

    Everything seemed to be well, and everyone seemed happy. You didn’t see an issue here but then you remembered the chip in your neck. You reached up to touch the area, feeling a bit uneasy. They were stronger than you but from what you had seen so far they didn’t mean any harm. Humans seemed to be okay, and you saw no reason to mess with it. On the ride home you stared out the window, thinking about the world you had been discovering.

“Are you okay?” Chanhee asked.

“Yeah… it just feels like I’m so new to the world…”

“It’s cute. You’re just like when we first brought you home.”

“But I don’t get to continue like this…”

“It is upsetting, but you’re practically at the point where you originally wanted to do the show.”

“Yeah.”

    You recovered for a few more days, and once you were better you were taken back to the village. It was weird going back to that lot, no longer afraid but having a new perspective. You followed the boys into the building you had run out of once upon a time. Except this time you were going in through the front entrance. You were only in the dark for a bit before you came upon a familiar scene. The village was the same as you remembered it, but you could see it in a new light now. Suddenly all the cameras and stage lights were visible, and you could see this place for what it really was. Makebelieve. 

“How did I not see all this…”

“Cause we made it so you wouldn’t.” Juyeon explained. “Since that’s the point of all this.”

“Right.”

“Are you ready to go back?” Younghoon asked. 

“Yeah. I should see this to end. Besides, you have all put so much work into this.”

“You have as well.”

“All the more reason.”

    You walked through the village, seeing all the things that you weren’t aware of before. It was kind of funny, making you wonder how you would feel in the future looking back on all of this. When you were satisfied you went off to find Sangyeon.

“You good?”

“Yup.” You smiled. “I’m good.”

“Come on then.”

    Sangyeon held out his hand and you gladly took it. You waved goodbye to the other boys, seeing all the smiles on their faces too.

“See you tomorrow.”

#the boyz #sangyeon #jacob #younghoon #hyunjae #juyeon #kevin #new #q #haknyeon #sunwoo #eric #lee sangyeon #bae jacob #kim younghoon #lee jaehyun #lee juyeon #moon kevin #choi chanhee #ji changmin #ju haknyeon #kim sunwoo #son youngjae #the boyz au #tbz #tbz au #the boyz scenarios #the boyz imagines

[intotheelliwoods]

-> -> -> 2AL playlist drop!

Answered all the music related asks under the cut!

Question reference btw!

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@teainthesnow

4 - a lyric you like

"Triangles are my favorite shape" From Tessellate by Alt-J !! Do I know why? Nah. I just also like triangles :)

11 - a popular song you think is Good, Actually

On Time by The Disco Biscuits !! Its not popular more than it is mainstream? Its one of those songs you swear you have heard everywhere, because its very much played everywhere, but like its actually good! Either its played everywhere or it just gives me loads of nostalgia? Eh whatever, its still good and im bestowing it upon you.

13 - a playlist name without context

"To Enter The Beyond" Past Human City Soundtrack

18 - a song or lyric that reminds you of the asker

Oh this for sure belongs on your AMW playlist!! Gives some absolute Tea vibes!

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@dandywonderous

5 - ramble about a song

FORGIVENESS BY ALICE GLASS!!!!!!! OUGHOUGHOGH I LOVE THIS SONG WITH ALL MY HEART god something about it just vibrates my insides and tickles my eyes. I dont know how to describe it other than each time I hear this song I feel nothing but pure power and hopelessness at the same time. Drifting along in never ending darkness, and the only thing you have with you are the spirits and memories of those who have passed. The spirits call for freedom. You should listen to them. This song gets real for me alright?

7 - a song for which you like a cover more than the original

Not really a cover moreso than it is a remix!? But im counting it! Silk by Giselle, the original, somber and sweet but just sorta missing something you know? This remix by Favored Nations though? SLAPS. Its so upbeat and I am so here for it!

11 - a popular song you think is Good, Actually

Honestly literally anything by Electric Light Orchestra. Though to be more specific, Evil Woman!! Alright is also a good one, but less popular!

16 - do you sing or play any instruments?

No instruments here! I actually have one really nice/complex song memorized that I can do on the piano but unfortunately thats about it whoops~ As for singing apparently I actually sing good when I try!?

23 - a song you remember liking as a kid

You are going to laugh at this one. Actually. I still like it. But damn was I a weird kid. I once had a solid 150 digits of pi memorized because I would just play this stupid song on loop for like a whole ass hour every now and then???? I think I still have about 50 memorized thanks to this song.. whoopsies

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@thimbell

5 - ramble about a song

YESSSSS YESSSSS I GET TO RAMBLE ABOUT ANOTHER SONG The World Is Ending by Matt and Kim !!!!!!!!!!!!! good GOD this song is so dear to me. Not because of the song really, but because of what the song means to me? The connections I have too it?????? Longish story short, someone made a killer AMV using it? The AMV using clips from the show Final Space! No clue if you have seen the show but no matter. Final Space is definitely up there as one of my favorite shows, not only because its good but because it actually helped me get closer with my dad, we watched it together! In other words I associate this song with just so much joy. The AMV if you were curious btw!

14 - an unpopular music opinion

Glass Animals is overrated <3 <3 Dont get me wrong I love their music! It just gets so tiresome hearing them everywhere!??? Probably just a me problem though

24 - a song people often misinterpret

I dont think I have much an answer for this one, apologies! Mostly because its not too often I pay attention to lyrics, and even then I think its cool that everyone has their own interpretations of someones song!

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@wraenata

17 - a song that has made you cry

... honestly? Any song in a tv show that is played during a sad scene! A REALLY sad scene... one that comes to mind is Enter One by Sol Seppy (would recommend skipping to about 2:30), because it is played in the death scene of one of my all time favorite characters... alright im going to weep about that death scene more now because listening to this again is NOT helping pfft... oughh honestly now im tempted to add it to the 2AL playlist... maybe.

24 - a song people often misinterpret

Answered above!

30 - a song that makes you nostalgic

Divinity by Porter Robinson, listen this used to be my favorite song for the longest time... and it might even still be my favorite song?? Either way, I DARE not listen to it anymore for the sake of I fear for the day where this absolutely nostalgic gem gets tiresome for me...

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@unfortunate-songbird

17 - a song that has made you cry

Answered this one above! Though for a less serious answer, any of the finale songs in Centaurworld... oops.

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1 - which artist(s) have you listened to the most lately?

The Asteroids Galaxy Tour has been a fav in the past month! Heres a good song by them if you would like~

I am going to use this ask as a chance to also say how much I love Hugo Kant!! He makes great stuff to chill too when working! If I could log hours on youtube, my most listened to videos are so just listening to the guy live!

21 - favourite album

Not to pull out my inner cowboy, but Harlequin Dream by Boy & Bear. I fear for the day I get sick of this album its such a trip for me!

28 - rank the songs in an album

THATS IT IM RANKING ALL THE SONGS IN PAGANS IN VEGAS BY METRIC. I love this album.

#1 - Celebrate. This is the song that introduced me to the band and gives me SUCH a blast of nostalgia each listen, and it shows. Best song in the album by far. Its so weird though since I knew this song before I knew about the rest of the album, so when I finally discovered the whole album each time this song comes up its so out of place pfft! Still such a bop though!

#2 - Blind Valentine. This is just one of those songs I love singing too whenever it comes on alright!?????

#3 - Lie Lie Lie. This is the first song in the whole album, and honestly? What a knee slapping way to start an album too god damn!!!!

#4 - Cascades. I am begging you to skip to about 3:15 in this song, its a little on the plain end before that end, but THAT ENDING??????? SLAYS.

#5 - Too Bad, So Sad. ITS SO GRINDY I LOVE IT. I FEEL LIKE A PUNK IN A DESERTED WASTELAND

#6 - For Kicks. The beat is just so unique here!!!!!!???????

#7 - The Face Part |. Just some funky cool down beats at the end of the album that are very enjoyable!

#8 - Fortunes. A decent enough second song in the album, helps sets the tone for whats coming!

#9 - The Shade. Its actually a good song, just nothing special about it you know??

#10 - The Governess. vibes are there, the vibes are sure there

#11 - The Face Part ||. Just more cool off tunes to end the album with

#12 - Other Side. No. Why are you here. your ass does NOT fit with the rest of this god-tier album. goodbye.

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Edit: @kiaxet Thought I should add you to the masterpost here!!

5 - ramble about a song

Ok. Adventure Time by Yoann Turpin. I am usually not too big on 16 bit video game sort of vibes but this??? Is such a MASSIVE exception. Holy????? THE HEART THE GUY PUT INTO THIS SONG MAN. The beat is just so unique, its impossible to try and guess whats going to happen in the song next, you strait up feel like you are on an ADVENTURE. I am so here for this song, god and its so upbeat I am in LOVE.

By the way, I linked the whole ass album because the whole album overall is so nice to listen to to pump you up when doing dishes or something lmaooooo, the first song in the album is also an amazing trip!!

8 - an artist you think underrated

HUGO KANT!!! God!!! mentioned above as well, I love Hugo Kant with a passion! He makes such good stuff just to chill too, and him live is absolutely incredible!

With the ask above I linked a video from him preforming live, so this time around I bring you two favorite albums of mine!! Far From Home and Out Of Time

I get in SUCH a zone listening to his stuff!

9 - a song you think is underrated

Phleps by C418!!! C418, the producer of the original music behind minecraft, but the guy has so much underrated personal music that is SO underrated! This song in particular, is vastly different from his usually stuff and I love it for that. Definitely underrated for being overshadowed by his work on minecraft and his work that isnt minecraft but sounds like minecraft..

29 - what do you look for in a song or artist?

I always look for something where you can tell it has genuine love and heart put into it! That + something that just sounds truly unique in its own right!

#enjoy the 10 songs <3 #2 arms left #there may be only 10 songs but they all slap

[boundinparchment]

Dream a Little Dream of Me - XLI

Celestia had a cruel sense of humor. He knew this, even before his days as a student. But to be given a soulmate? Now, when he openly blasphemed against the cursed island in the sky? He would outlive you and the dreadful fated bond that haunted your shared dreams. There was little point in this. He could at least put a Vision to good use. People were nothing but disappointments. He had no use for you. Until you pulled the bow across your instrument and awoke a part of him long buried by self-hatred and arrogance. Soulmate AU; Il Dottore/Female reader w/ established personality and backstory. Slow burn. Lore and world speculation and interpretation within; follows canon story where possible. Rated Mature. Rating subject to change. Mind the tags. On AO3 here.

Zandik adjusted the veil one more time despite the fabric covering exactly what it needed to, his fingers lingering on the edge of the fabric.  A piece of absolute ingenuity, it did nothing to hinder your vision whatsoever, as if you were wearing tinted glasses in the sun; the fabric was entirely solid from the other side and hid your appearance.  

“The Tsaritsa will likely ask to see your face; other than myself, moya Tsaritsa is the only one entitled to such knowledge,” he said softly.  “No one else.  Not at present, at any rate.”

The passing touch slipped away, as it always did, and you found yourself longing for that stolen moment weeks ago.  He held himself back still.  Only this time, the distance felt like a chasm.  Emotional limitations reared their heads, familiar only in the vague sensation that reminded you of a darkened auditorium and a gaze across a library.

As soon as Omega’s hand fell from yours weeks prior, Zandik always seemed just out of reach.

You expected the trip to Snezhnaya to be similar to the one you made to the foot of the mountain that felt like a lifetime ago.  He’d since explained that leyline travel was the compression of time and space, using the world’s veins to connect one memory or sensation with oneself in order to do so.  You half-hoped that you would pack your things and the two of you would fall and arrive right where you needed to.

But his mind was elsewhere after he ripped a red star-like device from behind a false mask and a bundle of wires.  His gaze had lingered on the purple and green chess pieces in your hands and wordlessly, you held them out to him.  If Omega had them, and was passing them along, they had to be important.

Zandik took them from you and you saw them again only once, when the two of you were alone in the captain’s quarters and he called each one a Gnosis.  The ideas he posed to you were nothing new, merely offshoots of similar discussions you shared in the past about the stars and fate and what laid beyond them.  As the ship rocked on a particularly tumultuous night, you could only think of a diagram drawn in the dirt and discussions of pruning to perfect fate, perfect humanity .  

Everything felt like an echo of itself.

And now you stood in a parlor next to Zandik waiting for the Tsaritsa to call on you both, your hands aching from lack of stretching and the frozen air.  He played with the Gnoses idly, their inner power shimmering.  You had only ever met the Dendro Archon our of necessity and now here you were, about to meet the Archon known best for her ruthlessness and lack of heart.  It was easy to take comfort in the way he held his shoulders, the certainty and dash of arrogance that came from him in waves that made everyone else shift their weight and avert their eyes, all the while whispering about the success of Sumeru at every turn.

You wished you weren’t keenly aware of the handmaiden’s eyes on you as she finally escorted the two of you into the Tsaritsa’s private study.  Plenty of the whispers circulating around the Palace were about you and it had taken you several moments to process the title of ‘Lord Harbinger Dottore’ that accompanied them.  Mere glances turned into stares as if people were dissecting you; audiences of massive proportions were never a problem but you were one in a crowd back then, just another face.  

Not known to be the soulmate of a high-ranking Fatui Harbinger.

The Tsaritsa’s study was, structurally, like the rest of the Palace: crystalline, clean, opulent.  Bookshelves lined the pathway that opened up to a raised area with a large desk, a sparkling skylight above, and wide windows with a pristine view of the jagged mountains and swirling snow outside.  Off to one side, the room stretched a little to accompany a sitting area by a fireplace.  Despite the kind smile and warmth in the soft blue eyes watching you approach, it was difficult to imagine the woman standing before you ever taking comfort in the fire.

Platinum hair fell in waves, curling softly as it went from white to icy blue.  She wore, not a gown, but a beautifully pressed white dress uniform one might have reserved for court rather than a battlefield.  Epaulets of gold framed her shoulders and a red sash cut a clean line across her torso from her left shoulder to her right hip, a shining crystalline star pinned where one might consider her heart to be.

The Tsaritsa looked as if she might have been carved from the very permafrost of her kingdom and yet her expression seemed capable of melting even the most stubborn ice.

“It is good to finally see you in good company after all these years, Doctor,” she said.  “Two Gnoses and a soulmate?  Quite an unparalleled success.”

You bowed as Zandik had told you to, right hand over your heart.  With the large cloak around you, the gesture didn’t come off as polite as you preferred but the smile on the Archon’s face didn’t fade.  

And neither did your confusion.  The Dendro Archon had known about the connection between you and Zandik but it had been a matter of circumstance.  Not to mention said circumstances were tied deeply with Omega’s entire plan.  The Cryo Archon laughed softly as you turned your head to look between them for a moment.  It was not your turn to speak and you were not on familiar terms with the Tsaritsa; it would be impolite to interrupt.

Cold hands, the fingertips as blue as morning snow, lifted the veil over your eyes and tucked it back to keep it in place.  Her eyes scrutinized every part of your visage, drinking you in the way a shore pulled a tide but her kind smile never wavered.

“I do govern matters of the heart, my dear,” the Tsaritsa said, cupping your face for a moment.  “We Archons may not choose Vision bearers or fated bonds but we can identify their qualities.  It has been a long while since I last had the pleasure of such a union.  I hope you find my land to your liking.”

She took your hands in hers, finding your calluses with ease, your fingers stiff.

“You will have to play for me, sometime.  If you’re skilled with a piano, there is one in a salon that’s never seen much use.  It is yours should you ever wish to play it.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty,” you replied when she folded your hands together and let go.

“Now, Doctor, the matter of the Gnoses…”

You kept the veil lifted as you watched Zandik hand over the two chess pieces, Omega’s apology changing hands once more.

When the Segment handed them to you, forced your fingers around the powerful beacons, you wished you’d known how imperative they were then and there.  If you had understood then what you did now, after several seasick days and discussions about the divine, you would have at least had the nerve to speak.  Not that Omega deserved anything after the mess he made of your memories and your fated bond.  

Most of the conversation passed in a mix of words you understood and names you had no reference for.  Something about Fontaine, about Natlan, and two more Gnoses left.

“We shall speak of this another time, then,” the Tsaritsa concluded.  “You have…quite a workload waiting for you, according to Lord Pantalone.”

Zandik said nothing, only bowing in a similar fashion as he did upon greeting the Tsaritsa.  You followed suit, wondering all the while what kind of god the Tsaritsa was to earn the respect of a heretic like your soulmate.

The laboratories were far into the depths of the Palace.  You had known the stairs of opera houses and theatres, of grand mansions and more, but nothing quite compared to the endless flights between the heart of the Palace and the underground facilities.  More than once, you had to stop, even going so far as to return the cloak to Zandik before you grew too overheated.  He draped it over his shoulders, unbothered by the extra layer.

“Please tell me elevators travel this far down, Zandik.”

“They do.”

“Then why—”

His fingers pushed the edge of the veil up, tangled in your hair, and his other hand reached up to remove his own mask.  He wasn’t one for sleep, not consistently, something you’d known for years due to the strange schedule your dreams followed.  Whatever Omega had done, however, had taken its toll; his eyes were strained, the bruises beneath them darker than the last time you saw his face, and the usual spark behind them was dim, just like his earring.  Not unlike a candle burning the last of its wick.

Moments like this made you question the existence of the chasm you swore you felt.  He gave in, only when he was certain you were hidden from others.  For all but a few minutes, you felt closer to him again.  Another moment, stolen in the mere minutes you were given as of late.

Zandik inhaled deeply, slowly, your heart racing of its own accord at his proximity as the cloak fell around both of you.  If anyone were to see you, they might have the very wrong idea of what was transpiring, which certainly didn’t help .  You brought a hand to his cheek and rested the other on his neck, dipping a finger beneath the leather choker to pull him back ever so slightly so you could look him in the eye again.

“Zandik…”

The hand in your hair tugged a little before loosened its grip, as if he was catching himself.  Whenever he touched you, it wasn’t for long as of late.

If Omega managed to mess up your memories, you could only imagine what he must have done to Zandik’s own consciousness in his last few moments.

You blinked away a memory of Omega, face streaked with oil, struggling to close the necessary distance.

Zandik released a breath through his teeth, his eyes tracing the wall behind you before he settled his gaze on you again.

“It would be best if you took up the Tsaritsa’s offer,” he whispered, his fingers in your hair tense again before they pulled away to fix the stray pieces.  “There are several plans that need my attention; you will need to occupy yourself and I will not keep you as...”

“As Omega did,” you finished for him.

“Precisely.  I will not deny that a part of me would prefer to keep you to myself but that would be a disservice to you.”

He leaned into your touch ever so slightly and closed his eyes.  For a moment, he looked at peace, and your chest ached at the way minute parts of him relaxed against you.  He was, genuinely, trying; there was no impression he was doing anything to the contrary, not during the ship ride over, and certainly not now.

“I sent a letter ahead of us when we docked,” Zandik said, standing straight again.  “Of all of the other Harbingers, Pantalone is…a colleague I’ve come to a mutual understanding with.  He will likely already be down in the lab or arrive soon enough.”

“Pantalone?”

The Tsaritsa mentioned someone by that name, you recalled.  Another Harbinger, from the sound of it.  

“He’s polite enough, as only a banker can be,” he continued.  “Perceptive, of course.”

Your lips pulled into a thoughtful frown.  You would, inevitably, run into people who put pieces together as easily as if they were doing a jigsaw puzzle.  After all, you were a foreigner and there were only so many purposes for someone in your position.

In the distance, you felt the rumble of a boiler kicking on, and you counted the beats between valve openings for a moment before you spoke.

“Is there a point to hiding my face, then?  Doesn’t this,” you gestured to your veil, “draw more attention to me?”

“The attention of a new presence is quick to pass.  Not hiding your face would be indicative of not being my equal, which would put you at a disadvantage; you were quite clear that, if you came with me, it would not be with the intention of being anything less than what you are to me and I have no desire to put you in such a position.  Those with public facing roles, and lesser ranks, must show their face and their identities are masks in and of themselves.  Pantalone is the head of Northland Bank in its entirety, for example, but he is also the Ninth Harbinger.  Such identities feed one another but conversely they are precisely what hold him back.”

You let your hands drift from his face and his neck to his chest, pulling them back in the heat of the cloak.

“We will deal with the hypotheticals of any problems as they become reality,” Zandik concluded.

He sounded as if he was speaking more to himself than to you but you nodded in agreement nonetheless.  He replaced his mask and you straightened the eye veil again before continuing down the stairway.

When you passed through a set of grandiose doors and stepped into the large workspace, you were greeted by the sight of a man with black hair waving away a gurney.  He looked every bit a businessman in his sleek attire (Liyue-inspired, you guessed), dressed in black with hints of purple and a set of spectacles perched on his nose.  You saw a hint of gold behind his glasses as he looked Zandik over, as if taking inventory of a shelf, but he closed them again as he smiled and folded his hands.  

“You certainly took your time,” the stranger said.  “I have other appointments to keep, Doctor.”

Zandik scoffed.  “Like what, Regrator, cutting yourself?  How do you manage to slice your hand when all you do is accounting?”

The man before you was entirely unfazed by the jab; in fact, you swore his smile grew wider.

“The same way you manage to simultaneously collapse in at least ten different places at the same time,” he replied.

You schooled your lips, reminding yourself that your mouth was still visible.  So he, too, knew about the Segmentation?  How many more knew about them?  Or was it an open secret that Zandik had kept branches of himself and used them for all sorts of purposes?

“Better than collapsing only once and dealing with it in intervals.  Get it all out of the way, you know?  Wouldn’t you call that economical , Regrator?”

Judging by the tilt of the other man’s head and his tight smile, you gathered he could think of a million things to call the phenomena and not a single one of them was economical.  

“It’s quite rude not to shed some light on your…endeavors, Doctor.  No word, no warning, reports of you collapsing everywhere and no one having a plan.  Not to mention your…intriguing companion.”

He turned his attention to you and your blood iced over as his eyes opened and focused on you.  That shade of gold was only rivaled by mora itself, you thought, but mora at least retained some sort of warmth.

“I am Pantalone, Ninth of the Eleven Fatui Harbingers.  It is rare to see our Doctor in the company of others.  Whom do I have the grace of meeting?”

You gave your name, along with the gesture of respect you gave the Tsaritsa.  When you looked up again, no smile graced Pantalone’s lips.  In fact, you speaking seemed to have his mood worse somehow.

“You are from Fontaine, mademoiselle?”

“Yes.”

“And yet the ship you were on came straight from Sumeru—”

“Are you done, Regrator?  I believe there are more important matters to address than the company I keep.”

A sharpness in the air hung high, like the guillotine that the Hydro Archon loved to make use of.  Unspoken questions that would be asked when you weren’t there.  Pantalone’s gaze shifted from you to Zandik, staring for a moment, before he spoke again.

“I was only ensuring that she was given the respect of an introduction, Doctor.  But yes, if you would allow me to explain what, precisely , has been done in your absence regarding the…prostheses.”

You made to follow Zandik (after all, why would you not go with him, after what you’d witnessed?) only to see Zandik shake his head.  His hair curled around the crystal earring, the jewel dull and lifeless, like a man at the gallows.

“I will be back shortly.  There’s little reason for you to accompany me.”

With Pantalone lingering in the background, you were in no position to barter and argue against him.  It was one thing when you were alone; it was another to have a lower rank Harbinger witness the Second bicker with who was, effectively, a stranger.  On the journey over, you were reminded that a Harbinger’s rank was not just a social one but a military one as well.  Authority could not, should not, be usurped.  The consequences were not just social embarrassment.

You gave a small nod and you watched the two men cross the threshold into another room, the chilled air spilling out and curling like a cat by a fire.  The heavy door closed behind them and you were left alone in the large space.  

The stone walls were illuminated at intervals just large enough to keep the shadows at bay but when you looked up, the ceiling was swallowed by darkness.  It was too large to be a workshop in and of itself but you caught piles of parts off to one side, organized by part and then by size, and in a corner you caught a smaller version of the machine you saw in the mountains, partially dismantled.  

The flagstones beneath your first were not without questionable stains and you tried not to think too hard about their source.  You hummed a few bars of notes quietly as you inspected the rest of the open space; down a corridor, you found a well-stocked and sizeable library, and then an office, shelves cluttered with more books, along with jars of what must have been specimens, and various trinkets and mechanical pieces.  

You picked up a mask, different than the one Zandik wore now, with only the eyes and a corner of the mouth cut out.  A black and white pattern, with the sigil of the Fatui, decorated the surface, and you tried to imagine how he might look in it, red eyes shining.  It wouldn’t have looked right on Zandik now, not with the way his hair was.  But a younger version of him, the false memory of a student of the Akademiya who shared a picnic at sunset with you, came to mind instead.

Putting it down, you continued humming, trying to commit the notes and patterns to memory to write them down later as you returned to the large open area.  Zandik and Pantalone were already finished, it appeared, and as you drew closer, you heard parts of the conversation.

“Don’t tell me you actually have a soulmate, Doctor.”

You tried not to think about the way Pantalone said the word, as if it were acid to be spit.

“You’re the last person to ever consider any kind of action by the Heavenly Principles to be worth the trouble.  How do you know she isn’t lying?”

“The prostheses weren’t the only things Omega saw fit to take matters into his own hands with, Regrator.”

The command in his voice said everything words didn’t: drop the matter at once.

You caught a flash of anger across Pantalone’s face that vanished as soon as both men saw you approach.  Pantalone closed his eyes as he smiled this time before he spoke.

“Be careful in your wanderings, mademoiselle; you never know what you’ll find in the depths of the Palace.  The Doctor has spent many a decade creating all sorts of monstrous fiends and mechanical deathtraps.”

“I’ll keep that in that mind, Lord Pantalone,” you replied evenly, bowing slightly out of deference.

You hated how easily your muscles remembered certain things; tones to use, gestures to exhibit submission and respect.  The culture was different but the ego of a man with a lot of money and power and every desire to gain more of it was universal.  Your skin crawled at the memories that swam to the surface and you swore you felt old bruises blossom across your flesh in an instant.

“I appreciate your thorough work as always, Pantalone,” Zandik said.  “I’ll take it from here.”

“Excellent.  I tire of seeing your face anyway.”

With a polite bow to you and a murmuring of titles, the large doors to the facility slammed shut and you were finally left alone with Zandik again.

“He seems…delightful,” you said after a beat.  “And he’s the only colleague of the Harbingers you get along with?”

Zandik’s jaw clenched and then unclenched as he kept his gaze on the doors for a full beat longer than necessary.

“I would consider him…not unlike those you spent your time with in your orchestra.  Tolerable at best but the options to pick from are…subpar.”

He held out a hand towards you and you closed the distance to take it, allowing yourself to be enveloped by the cloak again.  You wanted to ask about the conversation you overheard but the heavy sigh that escaped Zandik shoved that thought aside.  The room, no doubt, held something related to what had happened over the last few weeks, and only seemed to have taken a heavier toll on him.

“You would prefer to go straight to work,” you stated.

“There is too much to be done and I am without the means to delegate my workload,” Zandik replied tersely.  “I must.”

“Tomorrow.”

He scoffed and you turned to face him entirely.

“One day of rest won’t kill you.  Overworking yourself might.”

“And one day of rest won’t be enough to repair—”

You reached up and took his mask off carefully, as he had shown you how to, disregarding the door nearby.

“You can have tomorrow, Zandik.  Everything will be here tomorrow, too.”

Weary eyes looked at you.  His mouth was partially open in further protest until he exhaled and looked away.  He might work through it anyway, you knew well enough, but you wouldn’t be able to rest yourself if you didn’t try.

“As you wish.  But don’t anticipate subliminal results.  I’ve never been one to be idle.”

The sitting room looked exactly as it did in the first dream you saw it in.  Directly across from you was a series of windows nestled among stone light enough to reflect daylight when it was present.  The ceiling was still covered in geometric patterns that, if you looked at them too long, you would be lost in their designs; a mimicry of the plush area rugs in various shades of blue.  

Familiar chairs and sofas, a coffee table marked at the exact spot used to rest metal boot heels, sat in the center of the room.  Bookshelves covered the walls, an unlit fireplace sat right where you recalled it being.

The rest of the suite wasn’t much better.  Objects and furniture you expected to be in one area were in another, some rooms didn’t exist, and when you asked about direct access to the labs, Zandik chuckled.

“As if I would risk any back entry to my private rooms to be exploited,” he said.

He’d meant it teasingly.

It didn’t stop the hair on the back of your neck and arms from standing up.  Even as you picked from a tray brought up to the room, washed up, dug through your belongings, you felt off-kilter.  It was impossible to shake the sensation both that you were being watched and that you were utterly alone.

Déjà vu felt like too weak of an experience.

Not helped, of course, by Zandik picking through correspondence and moving about the rooms on autopilot.  He was no doubt trying to ground himself while trying to relax per your ask, at least to the best of his abilities.

He wasn’t one for compliance; others complied with him, not the other way around.

The bed (hardly used, Zandik admitted), was far more welcoming than you anticipated.  Smooth sheets, warm blankets, supportive without being too firm.  Falling asleep was easy; your body was exhausted and your mind only had so much bandwidth before it, too, gave in.

Staying asleep was another matter.

By the time you realized you were dreaming, it was impossible to stop.  Omega, pulling you away from your work, crowding you, invading you.  Hands on your face, your neck, as the smile above you faltered and twitched, barely choking out final words you wished you could forget.  Blue liquid ran from unsee eyes and the weight above you went slack.  

You struggled against the pressure on top of you only to feel your arms restrained and hear your name called as if you were deep underwater.  Gasp after gasp never felt like enough and when you came face to face with wide red eyes with even darker circles beneath them, you could only let out a silent scream as your vision blurred.

“You’re awake, you’re safe,” you heard, Zandik’s voice gravelly with sleep.  “Breathe.”

Your lungs didn’t want to work but you did as he said, inhaling and exhaling as he counted.  Just as you focused on the rhythm of a metronome, you let the cadence and beat of Zandik’s counting guide you until the noose around your lungs loosened.  Absently, your fingers twitched, desiring nothing more than to hear and feel the vibration of strings beneath them, through your very being.

Zandik only left long enough to retrieve a glass of water.  You suppressed a chill as the cold liquid ran down into the empty pit of your stomach.  

“Tell me what happened,” he said at last.

“The room,” you whispered when you found your voice again.  “The layout is different enough but Omega used much of it in the dreamscape.”

You took another sip, all the while feeling tired but determined eyes on you, observing everything.  On Omega, the sensation had been unsettling; on Zandik, it felt just like it did in every dream, even if you never actually saw his face.  Not unlike when he’d watched you summon energy from your Vision all those weeks ago.

“I dreamed but you weren’t there.  Omega was.  Started out as if the…experiment never stopped.  Only it turned into the Sanctuary and instead of him falling before me, he fell on top of me and—and you’re right here and instead of you, I get—”

Your words died as your throat and lungs tightened again, your mind seeing the image all too clear.

Hands pried yours off of the water glass, took it away, and then smoothed your hair out of your face.  

“It was only a nightmare,” Zandik said steadily.  “No one else is here.  Just me.”

In the waking world, your mind understood it so easily; without the dreams and in a different location, you were under the assumption your subconscious knew the difference too.

Arms reached around you, awkward in their embrace but no less well-intended.  You thought of a flower, crystalized in Cryo nestled safely in your bag.  Lips found your hairline, your forehead, your temple, each brush a promise.  

“Time is required,” he whispered.  “Such a situation cannot be handled without a great deal of research and observation first.  It is not my usual approach but I am beginning to find you are the exception in most things.  And therefore I must accommodate you accordingly.”

You leaned into him, hands reaching for the soft material of his sleep shirt as you closed your eyes and breathed in his scent.  You didn’t remember falling asleep again but the next time you opened your eyes, it was to find the room bathed in crisp morning light, the sky outside streaked with pink and orange.  

Beside you, the bed was empty, cold.

The only indication that last night’s moment wasn’t a dream in itself were the rumpled sheets and pillow, long since abandoned in favor of work.  A sentiment you could understand as you dressed, longing to put the notes in your mind to paper, to hear them properly.  A need that, if denied for too long, would rupture rather than blossom.

Perhaps you would take up the Tsaritsa’s offer after all.

#fic: dream a little dream of me #il dottore #dottore #dottore x reader #il dottore x reader #soulmate au #dottore/reader #il dottore/reader #il dottore x female reader #dottore x female reader #dottore/female reader #il dottore/female reader

[jamisonwritestf2trash]

[Alarm meme sfx] [breaks door] Hallo! I have come up with a suggestion for you!

Which rhythm games do the mercs play, or would play? And why?

There's a lot of different mechanics —such as judgment lines, kinds of notes, spam— and characteristics to explore and compare, so go wild! I'll add some links as guidance: Arcaea, Phigros, Lanota, and Project SEKAI.

Take care! > ◡ <

What Rhythm Games Do The TF2 Mercs Like and Why?

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Hello to you too! This is such a cool ask! Also, mutual appreciation comment: Love you and all the kind reblogs from you 🫶🏻

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I haven't played a lot of rhythm games, so I hope you like these 😭

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Gotta get this out of the way, the reason they all love these games besides the reasons specified is because of the praise. These guys are so desperate to be told they're doing a good job it's crazy.

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Demo- Rhythm Heaven, this man loves cute things. He definitely gets upset about the issues that come with a lack of depth perception. He makes it work, though, and always tries and has fun regardless of if he does well or not.

Engineer- Dance Dance Revolution. He's insane. You'd think a middle-aged man who's used to sitting, sketching, designing, and creating things in his room wouldn't be the best at DDR, but he's so good. He loves to dance!

Heavy- Arcaea is one that he really likes, but I don't think he has a favorite. Rhythm games are hard for him. There's lots of room of error. He loves how like absolutely hard the music in Arcaea goes, so he'd definitely pick that one a lot more than others, if he had to choose.

Medic- Lovebirb. He loves music (so he's already a fan of rhythm games), and now he can add birds into it!? Sign him up. He adores the art style and the idea of birds finding love. It's beautiful to him!

Scout is a killer at Beat Saber. It's almost scary. Once he gets focused on it, good luck beating his high score. So quick tie into another headcannon, Medic loves music and has tried to play Rush E multiple times and struggles, (Ik Beat Saber and acutal instruments are different but like omg they all look super hard.) Scout on second try did Rush E perfect on Beat Saber. Medic was mouth agape. He's a fan of having to spam things. He loves quick moments because he's always in need of a way to burn off energy. (This man is so Jerma coded I'd be so wrong not to say he didn't play the same game Jerma played with Miku even if it isn't a rhythm game 😭).

Sniper- Osu! Laser accuracy. He could be playing the hardest level out there and is pinpointing it perfectly. He is the worst to try and play against. He's almost as bad as Scout, but Scout doesn't really get why people are so shocked at how good he is. Sniper is smug about it.

Spy- Just. Dance. King. This man has played every just dance game out there. He's too good at this game. It's worrying. He's not even really a good dancer or anything. But this man has every dance locked into his memory. He loves the songs and also likes the idea of being a pop star, but he won't ever admit that.

Soldier- Guitar Hero. This man can shread on the guitar. Like Spy and his pop star dreams, he loves the idea of being a rockstar, but he's willing to admit that. I actually think when he was younger, he saved up money and bought himself a guitar and an amp and used to play it all the time. But as he grew up, he didn't have time for it. But now, anytime someone brings up video games, he's super excited to whip out the plastic guitar.

Pyro- Melatonin. Genuinely not a fan rhythm games. It's a sensory overload. Loud noise, lots of movement, and too many things to pay attention to. (Just like me fr). The minute they saw Melatonin, they were thrilled and fell in love instantly.

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I'm sorry if this wasn't as good as my other's. I had a hard time with this bc I don't play rhythm games 😭 it was still super cool to do!

#tf2 demoman #tf2 engineer #tf2 heavy #tf2 medic #tf2 scout #tf2 sniper #tf2 spy #tf2 pyro #tf2 headcanons #tf2 hc #tf2 #team fortress headcanons #team fortress 2 #tf2 soldier

[assorted-things]

My thoughts on the ending

This is probably going to be a bit rambling and disconnected, so bear with me...

(This got far longer than I meant it to be...)

Does anyone else feel that the Deserter is a reflection of the person Harry could have been, if he hadn't lost his memory? The bitterness and anger and inability to let go of the past remind me of a lot of things that the Ancient Reptilian Brain and the Limbic System say in the dream sequences... I think that Harry's amnesia is a gift, in a way - it allows Harry to eventually let go of the past and decide what kind of person he wants to be now. One of the first dream sequences shows Harry a vision of himself as the hanged man, and I think in a way the old Harry did die when he lost his memories. One of the reasons the game was so affecting emotionally to me is that you as the player are the one getting Harry to turn his life around, if that's how you choose to play it, because it really makes you feel involved and part of Harry's story. It's one of the reasons why I don't think the game would work well as a TV adaptation - I think it would really lose a lot of its emotional impact without your input. It really moved me that I could get Harry to go from screaming that he "doesn't want to be that kind of animal any more", to telling the Phasmid: "I'm glad to be me - an incredibly sensitive instrument".

I really love how the tone of the game manages to be somehow hopeless and hopeful at the same time. Maybe the world is doomed by the Pale, and the Revolution failed, and maybe Revachol is a shithole, but... you can find that there are things worth loving and saving in this broken world. You're subconscious tries so hard to convince you that it's all terrible and evil and that you should just give up and let the darkness take you, but all of your actions through the game can prove that voice wrong. It tells you you're not helping anyone, but depending on how you play the game, you are: you found Billie's husband, and even though he's dead, at least now she knows and won't have to wait forever for him to come home when he won't; Cuno has someone who actually listens to him and takes what he has to say seriously; you got Plaisance to bring Annette in from the cold; you stopped the mercenaries from killing as many people as they might otherwise have done (it went pretty badly in my playthrough, but I tried), and you gave Kim a friend. I love the message it seems to be trying to put across that even if the world is ultimately doomed, you can and should still try to find the good in it, and make a small part of it a better place. And maybe in the end it won't change anything, but the fact that you had hope enough to try matters. And maybe if enough people thought that way, they could change reality for the better - maybe there was a grain of truth in that infra-materialist stuff all along. Maybe it sounds corny, but I found it very touching.

This is... sort of where the Phasmid comes in for me, because everyone thought the existence of the Insulindan Phasmid was impossible, but because you believed in it enough, you were able to prove it was real. And if the Phasmid is real, then maybe other things that people thought were impossible can happen, too... It makes me feel very satisfied that I chose "SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL IS GOING TO HAPPEN" when I painted that wall. It seems fitting.

I also love the fact that the Deserter being stuck in the past is literally killing him. And... he talks a big game about being the last real Communist or whatever, but in the end, how is he actually helping the working class by clinging to his bitterness and refusing to let go of what could have been, instead of trying to do something to help the people around him? Even though Harry is flawed, and on his own can't change the world, he's made a difference to the people around him, which is better than being consumed by bitterness and doing nothing at all.

In the end, I think for me one of the core themes of the game is faith/belief (not necessarily in a religious sense)... I think that something that really helps is Kim's belief in Harry. He's so kind to Harry, when he could just as easily write him off as a shambling alcoholic. I think Kim's faith in you makes you want to live up to what he thinks of you, so... I'm not sure how coherent I'm being here, but it's a bit like how Harry believing in the Phasmid lets him make it a definite reality - Kim's belief in Harry as a great detective, or someone who could be a great detective, makes Harry a better person, I think. (At least, that's my take on it - I got so attached to Kim as a character that I really wanted to make him proud of my version of Harry!) And in the end, his faith wasn't misplaced. Again, he can't change the world, and he's human and not a saint (much as Harry may think he is), but Kim choosing to be kind did make a difference, even if it was only to one man.

tl;dr This is going to sound unbearably pretentious, but if someone asked me if video games can be art, this is the game I'd point to and say "yes".

#this game's story and world have just grabbed my heart and squeezed #I'm Not OK #Disco Elysium #Splash plays games #Disco Elysium spoilers

[wanderingblindly]

hello loveeee!! given we love an ambient moment - i would love you to conjure me something with this little mood board for either lestappen or sebchal (ie my two greatest loves other than my Wives)

thank you kindly, ms wanderingblindly 💛💛

BET YOU THOUGH I WAS NEVER GONNA DO THIS HUH!!!! Rest assured i don't delete prompts, i simply agonize until i randomly decide to write one in thirty minutes before bed. anyways, enjoy!

prompt post here xx

Sentimental Reasons (Charles Leclerc/Sebastian Vettel, 650 words)

There are lots of things about Sebastian that he assumes Charles doesn't know.

The sky above them is endlessly black, beautiful scatters of stars shining upon empty fields as far as the eye can see. And it's silent, nearly silent, as Charles rests his head against the still-warm window, holding on to memories of the long-gone sun. His eyes flutter closed, lulled half to sleep by the purr of the engine, the vibration against his temple, the deep warmth in his chest.

Sebastian hums when he's alone -- when Charles is asleep.

He does it now, a low melody that Charles can't put his finger on. He's not very good at it, technically, but it's lovely in its imperfection, its missed notes; it's lovely in its intimacy, its gentleness. Charles would smile if he didn't want to give himself away, because he loves listening to it.

Sebastian's humming is like his voice, like his hands; sometimes, when it's just the two of them, Charles feels like he's the only one that truly understands them.

He can't put his finger on the melody, slow and smooth. It makes him think of black and white movies, the cheesy romantic ones that mémè played at Christmas when he was a little boy.

There's a faint rustling, the click of a button; the silence is filled with soft music, the volume turned almost all the way down. It's a gentle piano opening.

Sleep continues to seep around the edges of his mind. He's warm, warm like off-season evenings spent wrapped up in each other's arms on Sebastian's couch, someone's head resting on someone's chest, their heartbeats slowly finding a single rhythm. He can feel Sebastian next to him, radiating home even in the middle of nowhere.

Sebastian sings when he's alone -- when Charles is asleep.

And he does it now, switches from humming along with the jazz instrumental to singing.

His voice is rough, the words weak in their quietness. He never wants to disturb Charles when he finally falls asleep, even if it's with a lullaby.

I love you For sentimental reasons. I hope you do believe me, I'll give you my heart.

He sings I love you like the first time he said it Charles, under a sky so different than this one. He sings it like it's only for Charles's ears, like the rest of the world doesn't deserve to know what happens between them. With wobbly edges and wide-eye earnestness, Sebastian sings along.

Charles's cheeks flush pink, familiar warmth blooming in his chest.

The road flies by under their tires, headlights pointed towards an infinitely long and impossibly straight road that stretches beyond the horizon. And yet, in this single moment beneath these specific stars, Sebastian sings for Charles -- even if he doesn't think he can hear it.

A smile pulls at the corner of his lips, sappy and small.

Sebastian talks to him, when he thinks he's asleep.

"My parents used to dance in the kitchen to this song, after they thought we were asleep," He whispers, and Charles knows he's slowly moving his head to the music. Sebastian always does. "It was the most beautiful thing in the world."

I think of you every morning, Dream of you every night. Darling, I'm never lonely Whenever you are in sight.

And in that moment, as Sebastian reaches a feather-light hand to rest on Charles's thigh, they've created a moment even more beautiful -- or perhaps just beautiful in its own way. In the scant weeks before they're thrust back into the constant scrutiny and intensity of the season, they've created their own little kitchen, danced to their own song.

With the endless expanse of the American unknown behind and before them, in the warmth of the summer night and Sebastian's voice, they're in love.

#look i wrote this in one go i need to get out of my mental slump #but!!! #have some fluff!!! some painless sebchal!!! #i still hope you enjoyed it angel this was just for you1!! #Sebchal #f1 drabble #f1 fanfic #f1 rpf