#that said; i don't particularly care for counting but that's probably enough? I forget the exact number.

[twilightarcade]

OC-tober day 1 - fave oc

Evie!! The one and only :) absolute freak. I don't quite have an ultimate favorite? But I suppose it would have to be xem at the moment..

#notwordswordstag #I think.. yeah #sorry besties #xyr pretty cool dontchathink #erm!! oc tober is probably getting posted over here just for the sake of consistency #don't think we're gonna have a set posting time. We ball #i might end up doing some heartwitchtober if i somehow aquire mass amounts of time.. or perhaps just do it next month #don't tell anyone though. doing an october prompt list in not october is CHEATING!!!!!!!!!!!! #man do we tag this..... what if i bury them far enough down that it doesn't get indexed #that said; i don't particularly care for counting but that's probably enough? I forget the exact number. #Should be 10 or so. If it's more. Well. Should have remembered idiot. #bweirdOCtober #oc-tober #improperly used semi colons... darn #maybe ill just start using stars and hearts ☆ they're pretty silly. That wasn't even a spot for a comma. #man should I. Reintroduce them every time. Hm. #if you DO find this and wish to know more don't be afraid to shoot me an ask or something! I can even answer privately if you'd like #don't tell anyone but i am this 🤏 woah that emoji sucks. I am this -> 🃏 #i am this close to breaking the world rules i set 4 myself. Just once.. #I finished day 6 aren't you excited for day 6 guys

[alexblakeisgay]

Wait for the Signal (Ch. 2)

Ship: Alex Blake/Emily Prentiss

Summary: It’s been twenty-three years since anyone has seen a zombie.

Warnings: Canon-Typical Violence

Word Count: 1025

There's little playground out back of the hotel where most of the colony's residents live. It's not much of a playground – just a slide, a few swings, and a see-saw – but it's enough for the colony's lone child. At least for now. Maybe they'll add to it, as the Aquene Generation grows. (They're on track for three births that year.)

It's around that small playground that most of the colony has gathered to celebrate Jenna's birthday.

Jenna, of course, being one, couldn't care less that people were gathered on her behalf. She was too busy gumming strawberries and toddling across the lawn (an overachiever, she was walking before she was eleven months old); her favourite game was to be chased, all the while squealing with glee.

"It's a nice feeling, isn't it?" Jack said, settling beside Henry on one of the tree stumps around the fire pit and passing him a chipped mug full of mead.

"Hmm?" Henry hummed a note of question in reply as he accepted the mug and took a swig from it.

Jack nodded in the direction of the playground where Emily was pushing Jenna on one of the swings, both of them smiling with a brilliance that almost almost made one forget that their world was but a shadow of what it had been only scant decades ago... "This," he added, "Our children will get to play outside. They'll skin their knees on the sidewalk, playing tag, instead of running for their lives. They'll get to be kids..." He didn't add, 'the way we didn't'...he didn't have to, as they were both thinking it.

The thing about growing up in the midst of the zombie apocalypse was that memories of your formative years were inevitably full of terror and uncertainty. They'd been lucky, of course, that the people in their lives were perhaps better equipped to endure such an apocalypse than most. That didn't mean there was any less fear, though...

"When is Lily due?" Henry asked, changing the subject. He glanced towards where Lily and her twin sister, Chloe, were helping Garcia prepare lunch.

"Six weeks," Jack said, following his glance with a soft smile. Quickly, his expression flickered over to anxiety.

Henry nodded sagely. "Scared?" he asked, as if he'd missed the flash of fear on his face.

"Shitless," he replied with a dry little laugh.

Henry nodded again – he remembered all too well that feeling of being so wildly unprepared for whatever came next, in completely uncharted waters as he became a father in the midst of a zombie apocalypse without either of his parents to guide him.

"Well?" Jack prompted, gently elbowing him in the ribs. "Got any wisdom for me?"

He barked out a laugh, not because anything was particularly funny but because the situation itself was decidedly not funny... "It really does take a village," he said after a moment of thought. "Now moreso."

Henry, probably better than anyone in the colony, knew just how important it was to have the support of others to survive. One after another, the important people in his life had passed away – as was wont to happen in a zombie apocalypse – so his whole life had been reliant on the kindness of others.

"I don't think I could have gotten this far if it weren't for Emily and Alex," he added. Tessa, Jenna's mother, had passed away in childbirth and since then, Henry had relied heavily on Emily and Alex to help care for the baby.

"Say, where is Alex?" Jack asked, apparently only just noticing that she hadn't joined the festivities.

Then, as if right on cue, Alex came stomping into the midst of the party, growling, "Emily Elizabeth Prentiss! How could you not tell me!?" Everything about her posture made it clear that she was furious; she wasn't normally one to be incandescent with rage, but something had clearly changed that...

Bringing the swing to a stop, but keeping Jenna between them like a human shield, Emily asked, "Could you be more specific?" She didn't make it a habit, per se, to keep secrets from Alex, so she had a feeling she knew what had her so riled up, but she wasn't going to come right out and say it on the off chance she was wrong.

"Is Derek right? Are you planning to go on some wild goose chase hunt for the so-called 'Murphy'!?"

Emily's expression turned to a glower and she glanced about in search of Derek, but he was nowhere to be found. Turning back to Alex, she held her hands up in supplication and began apologizing, "I can explain..."

"Are you going after The Murphy?" she demanded a second time.

"Maybe..." she admitted in a mumble, shrugging her shoulders up near her ears sheepishly. "But I can explain," she insisted once again.

Raising a brow, Alex dared, "Go ahead, convince me."

Emily glanced about, feeling everyone's eyes on them – partly because they were, in fact, making a scene, but partly because every Alpha in attendance could no doubt smell that Alex was in heat. "Can we talk about this in private?" she urged.

"What's The Murphy?" Henry asked, interrupting the silently murderous glares Alex was directing at Emily and the silently apologetic glances she was returning.

For some time now, there had been rumours of The Murphy on the ham radio transmissions they were receiving. According to the stories, The Murphy was immune to zombism...which, if it were true, would make him the key to finding a cure and ending this nightmarish existence.

Emily explained that to Henry, following which, his eyes lit up. "You're going to find him? Can I come?"

"Henry!" Alex scolded, "You have a child! You cannot risk making her an orphan by going on this snipe hunt!"

"Sorry," he said, shrinking in on himself. She was right, of course. He'd just gotten caught up in the excitement that came with the idea of returning to some kind of normalcy...

Turning to Emily, Alex continued, "No one should be going. It's just an urban legend. There's no such thing as The Murphy."

#criminal minds #emily prentiss #alex blake #mine #fanfiction #alex blake/emily prentis

[gaylorvader]

Dangerous Hunger

Dimitrescu daughters x gn reader

Summary:the dimitrescu daughters are dangerously hungry but to their surprise a servant offers them their blood.

(The daughters are all separate)

Word Count:4,998

Warnings:blood drinking, plot holes probably

(I saw someone else color cordantaie the characters speaking and loved it so I'm trying it here.)

Bela

Usually working at castle dimitrescu you see the ladies of the house throughout the day but you noticed lady Bela was absent.

Most of the other staff wouldn't notice her absence,more focused on the task at hand,get your work done and don't die,but you wondered where she was. Was something happening,was she ok?

You don't know why you were worried,she scared the fuck out of you like the rest of her family. Maybe it was because she's pretty,or more forgiving than Cassandra,or calmer than Daniela.But either way you pushed that feeling back and focused on your work,though you couldn't completely forget about it, always in the back of your mind.

Walking down the hallway you heard arguing ahead of you, though you couldn't quite make out the words you knew it was the daughters. The arguing stopped after a particularly loud shout from Bela.

"Just go! I can handle myself!" You heard flies buzzing getting quieter after her shout. You've never heard any of the dimitrescus sound like that,of course you've heard them angry but Bela also sounded desperate and weak.

As you turned the corner you saw her leaning against the wall with her hand on it. She seemed to tense and then turned to you."What are you looking at human?" She growled at you.

"Oh um, I'm sorry my lady." Oh fuck she looks pissed,but also unwell. Every other time you've seen or interacted with her she's been more composed.

The worry from earlier popped up from the back of your mind to the front. You knew you should have just kept walking and never speak of this again but you couldn't help it. You've always been a kind person, helping care for the animals around the village,and helping people and animals alike when needed since you were a kid. Your family always said you could be too kind for your own good. You never believed them as a kid but that kindness is what landed you here so you guess they were right.

"Are you alright lady Bela? Do you need something?" You said with fear in your voice, but also genuine concern.

She looked surprised. 'Is this where I die?' You thought. She watched you for a while, seemingly analyzing you. After what seemed like a decade she spoke.

"Why do you care?"

'How am I not dead?!' you thought frantically. 'Ah get it together y/n!'

"Um, well I just noticed how you were gone all day and-" She cut you off.

"I said why do you care? I could easily kill you, and you surely know what we do to people. So why?"

"Well I don't really know. I know what you do to people and what you eat but I've also seen you relaxed and enjoying hobbies like reading,or playing with your sisters. So you can't be all bad."

To say Bela was surprised at your answer is an understatement. Why did this servant seem so genuinely nice and caring? Bela was always good at telling when people were lying but she could tell you were telling the truth, not only that but they noticed she was gone and what she did in her spare time. She knew her sisters would make fun of her but in the moment she went against her better judgment.

"I need blood, and if you stay around I might not be able to control myself."

"Oh!" You thought for a moment. She seemed kind enough, if you forget about the murder,and she needed help that you could give her and besides a pretty lady biting you didn't sound too bad.

Bela thought you would run the other way, so imagine her surprise when you walked up to her. "If you need to drink you could drink from me. I finished all my work for today so I'm free for the rest of the day."

Bela looked like she'd seen a ghost. Was this human crazy? Sure she'd seen you around the castle and saw you were a kind person but this was a whole new level.

"I could drain you dry, killing you, you know that right?"

"Yeah but you need help. And you're in control now right? Besides, blood comes back if you drink and eat something."

"Your kindness will get you killed here little one." She said softly, looking at you. She put a hand on your shoulder moving it up to your face. You subconsciously tilted your head into her hand exposing your neck.

Growling, she grabbed you pulling you closer to her. She buried her head in your neck. You tensed up for a moment focusing on your breathing to try and relax while she did her thing.

One hand was holding your head at the base of your skull, the other was around your waist. Your heart was beating hard and fast, and whether that was because of the danger you were in, or because a beautiful woman was holding you, you didn't know but if you had to guess it was both.

"Your blood smells amazing little one." She said smiling. She could tell she was starting to lose control being this close to you but pulling back looking at you she looked in your soft eyes and could only see kindness in them.

"Are you sure you're fine with this? Because I can't promise I'll be able to stop myself."

You just smirked at her and said "If I wasn't sure I wouldn't have offered Lady Bela."

She scoffed at you playfully "You are the weirdest human I've ever met."

"Yeah, sounds about right my lady."

Your banter with the oldest dimitrescu sister was cut short when another wave of hunger hit her, making her wince a little.

Putting your hand on her shoulder you tried to comfort her. You weren't sure what was going on, only that she needed blood badly and you wanted to help.

"My lady?"

Burying her face in your neck again she held you tighter and moved your head to the side to expose more of your neck. You could hear what sounded like buzzing coming from her and light growls.

"Sorry little one, this is going to hurt but I can't wait any longer." She rushed out before biting into your neck making you whimper. Her grip was so tight that you wouldn't be surprised if it bruised, but you didn't mind, you just tried to relax and rubbed her arm to try and relax her as well.

It hurt of course but the other servants made it seem like it'd be worse, maybe you just had a thing for biting, or vampires, or both. Whatever the reason it hurt but felt good at the same time.

Starting to feel a little lightheaded you taped her and started pushing her. "Hey lady Bela, I'm starting to get light headed here. My lady?"

You were worried she hadn't heard or lost control completely but she pulled back esing your worries.

She put her hand on the bite applying pressure to stop the bleeding.

"Are you ok my lady?" You asked her. To your surprise she started laughing.

"I just drank your blood to the point of lightheadedness and the first thing you ask is if I'm ok? You really are a strange one. But yes I'm alright now." She paused for a moment then said "thank you."

You just smiled at her saying "It's no problem my lady." She shook her head at you smiling. She took her hand off your neck pulling out a cloth and pressing it to the bite though the bleeding had probably already stopped. Bela licked the blood off of her hand looking at you, the sight caused your brain to bluesceen like a windows computer.

Putting her arm around you after having you hold the cloth. "Come I'll walk you to your room so you can rest little one. I think mother would have my head if I caused one of her servants to collapse in the hall." She said with a small smile on her lips. You just laughed at her.

Cassandra

Today started off fairly normal, maids scurrying around busy to get their loads of work done. Lately castle dimitrescu has been low on staff, some hunters had attacked and somehow got in. A lot of the help got caught in the crossfire as the hunters didn't care who they killed. You think they just wanted the glory and fame. If asked about the innocent killed they'd probably just say the dimitrescus did it or it was an accident.

As the day went on though the maids started whispering and looking panicked more so than usual. As you were going about getting your tasks done some maids were staring at you, slowly trying to move away and getting their job done quickly. You finally had enough of the staring and asked them "What? Why do you keep staring at me?"

Most quickly looked away but one maid answered your question "Because lady Cassandra has been following you all day."

You were surprised at this news. Nothing really felt off during the day, no feeling of being followed or watched, though you supposed that that was what good hunters do stalking their prey. God you hoped she wasn't gonna kill you when she caught you. Not if, when. She was known to be the best and most ruthless hunter among her sisters. You knew she'd catch you, there's no question about that but why was she after you?

You knew of the blood shortage they were going through with the raid and the daughters not being able to hunt because of the cold winter weather. They were running low. So they started taking as much of the help's blood as they could, making sure they could still work after. It reminded you of when you would donate blood, except involuntary and probably not as sterile.

Their mother had told them to leave the help alone for the moment but Cassandra didn't always listen to her mother. Does she think your blood smells nice? Can she even smell your blood?

It was a few hours after that discovery and a few hours of looking over your shoulder trying to see her or hear her flies. Of course you didn't. You were wondering why she hadn't attacked you yet, maybe she enjoyed seeing you squirm she was a known sadist after all.

You were walking to your next task taking a minute to look out the window enjoying watching the snow fall, reminiscing on playing in the snow throughout your life. You must have taken a bit too long because you heard flies and when you turned saw Cassandra running at you with her sickel. Your instincts kicked in and you started running as fast as you could, though you knew it was useless your instincts were in control right now so you ran.

You turned corners quickly and ran to areas you knew Lady Dimitrescu frequented but you never were a lucky one. Your legs started to ache and you were more aware of how pointless running was, so you made peace with whatever spiritual thing you believed in or made peace with the probable death you were about to face if spirituality wasn't your thing, and stopped and turned around.

Cassandra wasn't that far behind and quickly pinned you to the wall. She stared at you for a moment realizing you purposefully stopped and gave up, most didn't. They ran until they couldn't anymore, they sometimes stopped to try and fight her but never just gave in.

"You stopped on purpose didn't you? Did you think you could fight me?" She said hiding her confusion behind her normal sadism.

"Because I know you'd catch me anyway." You told her, wondering if you giving in would ruin her fun. You didn't think you said anything funny but she started laughing."You knew I'd catch you?!" She continued laughing. You never thought laughing could be so scary but here you are.

"Well, just makes this easier for me." She said lowly. She put her head in the crook of your neck taking a deep breath and smiling that trademark dimitrescu sadistic smile.

She growled and tried to hide her flinching at her hunger pains but you noticed being this close to her. "Does her hunger hurt her that bad?" You thought. The dimitrescus never showed pain around the staff unless it was from an open window blowing in cold air, so it must be worse than the hunger pains you get, after all you certainly never flinched from yours.

As she was about to bite your neck Bela walked around the corner and saw what her sister was doing. "Cassandra! Mother said not to bite the staff!" Bela yelled at her sister.

Cassandra stopped and turned to her sister. You noticed she was shaking slightly and saw her hands were now fists on the wall, whether that was from her hunger or Bela interrupting was anyone's guess. "Than don't tell her. Besides, I'm starving and their blood smells so nice."

So she can smell your blood, huh.

"Cassandra." Bela growled sternly. "You draining them won't be good for anyone, we'd lose a staff member and we'd have one less person to get blood from."

Cassandra growled "I know that!" She snapped at her sister. "You know what these pains are like for me. You can manage yours better." Damn, you've never seen any of the ladies of the house show this variability before. Did she forget you were there? Considering she could smell your blood you doubted it.

Bela sighed "I know. But this isn't permanent, and mother is working with the other Lords to get more people to drink from. Just wait a little longer, I can give you a little of mine to hold you over." Bela seemed like a good older sibling, offering her some of her limited supply of blood so her sister wouldn't be in so much pain.

"No, I can't ask that of you." Cassandra told her sister sternly. Before Bela could reply Cassandra continued. "And yes I know you're offering and I'm not asking but I won't expect it."

You just stood there watching them go back and forth for what felt like hours. They just kept repeating the same points they'd already made, only worded differently. You felt bad for Cassandra as she was clearly suffering. You looked at Bela and she seemed fine, either she was better at hiding it, you weren't close enough to see, or Cassandra's cravings really were worse. So you did something you knew was bat shit crazy.

"Lady Cassandra?" You asked. "What?" She said, sounding annoyed. "If your hunger is that bad, I'd be fine with you drinking from me. As long as I'm not bedridden or dead after of course."

Cassandra looked absolutely shocked, Bela probably looked the same. "I chased you through the castle, scaring you, and now you are fine with me feeding from you?" She said in disbelief, you didn't blame her, it didn't make sense. Maybe the stockholm syndrome was kicking in.

"Yes. I know it doesn't make sense logically but I can see you shaking and saw you flinch from the pains. You don't ever show weakness in front of staff so it must be pretty bad." You just kept looking at her. You glanced at Bela, and as you thought she wore a similar expression on her face as her sister.

"Why are you saying this? Are you trying to escape by lowering my guard?" She asked. "As I already said I know you'd catch me Lady Cassandra. Even if I wanted to run you'd catch me in an instant if you really wanted to."

Right before Bela was about to speak her mother called for her. After looking back and forth at Cassandra and you, and towards where her mother called from, she left after saying "Wait until I ask mother about this to do anything." With a look that said she knew her sister wouldn't listen.

After she left Cassandra looked back at you "You'd let me drink from you?" She asked again. "Yeah you're in pain. Hey, maybe it's the stockholm syndrome is finally kicking in." You joked to try and relax the mood, currently the tension in the air could suffocate you. Thankfully she laughed "You're the strangest prey I've ever met."

She put her head back to your neck taking in the smell of your blood before growling lightly and biting you. You tensed at it and instinctively grabbed her arm by your head. She would pull back to breath and then bite again making the wound bigger, every time she did it you gasped and winced. By now you were breathing heavily, you felt your legs start to give out and your body felt weak.

"Lady Cassandra, stop, I'm feeling weak." You said. She pulled back blood on her mouth. Your legs finally gave in and you started to fall only for her to catch you and help you to the ground slowly. "Shit, I really did take too much. Sorry human, lost control for a bit." She helped stop the bleeding despite how much she wanted to drink more as she knew her mother was already going to be mad and didn't wanna piss her off more by accidently killing you.

She sat next to you on the opposite side as the one she bit. You rested your head on her shoulder, she tensed for a moment but let you to your surprise. "What's your name?" She asked. You didn't think she'd ask that, or anything really. Maybe she was just trying to fill the awkward silence. "Y/N. Why do you ask?" Nothing was said for a moment until she answered. "Because I've never had prey like you. I've had prey that give in realizing running is pointless" She said the last bit with a sadistic happy tone. "But you let me drink from you. You seemed genuinely empathetic to my…situation." "Do you not get empathy often?" You asked looking up at her. "Not from my prey." You supposed that made sense, not to be empathetic to your soon to be killer.

After a more comfortable silence you asked "So, do you feel better Lady Cassandra?" She looked at you "Yes." You smiled at her. "I'm glad, you looked pretty bad back there." After another brief silence she put her hand on your head. "Thank you y/n, you didn't have to do that." "No problem my lady." You saw a slight smile on her face which then made you smile. She stopped shortly after though. "You tell anyone I said that I'll kill you." You still smiled at her saying "Your secret is safe with me ma'am." With a mock salute, making her smirk and roll her eyes.

Your fun with the middle dimitrescu daughter was interrupted when her mother came to presumably scold her. Bela was told to help you to your room with some food and water. As Bela was helping you to your room you turned around to Cassandra "See you later my prey~" She said making you blush and her mother angrier.

Daniela

You always liked the dimitrescu's library, they had a lot of good books there, mainly old ones but some newer ones too. Whenever you had free time you'd try to get to the library to borrow a book or go read whatever you were currently reading, either in the library, your room, or in the summer and spring outside if Lady Dimitrescu allowed it.

So of course you've run into Daniela a lot. Sometimes you'd talk to each other if she saw you reading a book she liked, you were too scared to do the same incase she wanted to be left alone. You didn't wanna risk making a dimitrescu angry at you, especially the baby of the family because if she didn't kill you her family would.

Other staff members were completely terrified of her because of her unpredictably. Others were scared or annoyed by her hyperness, scared because it fed into her unpredictably, annoyed because they just didn't like that type of person. But you kinda liked that about her. Some unpredictably is good right? And as a shy and low energy person it was kind of nice to have that sometimes.

Today you were just going about your day working where the dimitrescus needed. Right now you were headed to the library, which you had been excited for all day since you saw it was your turn to clean, organize, and take stock of the books. You had returned a book not that long ago so you were looking for another to read, so this was perfect.

Walking into the library you looked around and saw Daniela wasn't here, which disappointed you a bit, but nonetheless you got to work. You wished the Lady of the house allowed some modern technology as being able to listen to music would make tedious things like this go faster. You wondered if Daniela would come in, she definitely made your job more enjoyable.

A few hours later and you were almost done and you had a few books in mind that you wanted to read. As you were organizing the last of the books you saw Bram Stoker's Dracula and every time without fail when you saw it on one of the shelves you laughed. It was pretty funny a famous classic about vampires ended up in a vampire families castle. Just as you were chuckling at it, none other than Daniela Dimitrescu walked in.

"Your laugh is so cute." She said, but something seemed a little off about her. Her voice sounded strained, like she was in pain almost."Lady Daniela, are you ok? Something seems wrong."

She was honestly surprised you noticed, especially with you getting flustered as always at her flirting.

"Oh is it? It's probably nothing." She said, trying to laugh it off. You raised your eyebrow at her, giving her a 'really?' look.

"Did a maid open a window again? One of your sisters annoy you again?" "Oh it's nothing. Are you done in here?" It was clearly something. She said the first sentence still trying to laugh it off, but the second one was kind of rushed.

"Uh, I'm almost done. Why do you ask? Do you need alone time or something?" "Ah yes! Alone time! That is what I need at the moment." She said like she came up with a convenient excuse to get you to leave. Which was weird as she never asked you to leave before, even when she was brooding.

"So you're asking me to leave Lady Daniela?" You wanted to double check if that's what she wanted. "You sure? You could rant to me about whatever it is while I finished in here if you want." You weren't sure if you could outright tell her she was acting weird and tell her to talk to you while still keeping all your internal organs internal, so you were trying to ease it out of her.

She was getting increasingly nervous as the conversation went on and you stayed in the room. She was shuffling and looking at the floor or anywhere but you. You've never seen her like this, she looked like she just broke one of her mother's vases and was getting reprimanded for it.

She seemed to grow a little frustrated at your not leaving, finally saying. "I get thirsty��understand? And you're really sweet and cute and I don't want to accidentally hurt you or worse! And you're the only servant who's nice to me!" Oh! You….were not expecting that. Don't they have more than enough blood? And no one else was friendly to her? Daniela is a social person a lot of the time, so only having her family and occasionally you to talk to must suck for her.

"Don't you have more than enough blood for each of you?" "Well yes, but I forgot, I was busy. And the blood is too far away and I don't want mother to get mad at me for killing another maid." At the mention of her mother getting upset at her she looked like a kicked puppy. It would be cuter if you weren't so worried about her.

"Hm." You had to think for a minute to try and help her as you did like her. "I could go get it for you." Daniela groaned "No, that's off limits to staff at all times." "Damn." You muttered under your breath.

She seemed really uncomfortable and maybe even in pain. She was begging you to leave and she was really scared she'd hurt you, but if neither of you could get her blood then there was clearly only one option.

You looked back at her after zoning off to think and she was damn near panicking. In her spiral she didn't notice you walking up to her until you put your hands on her arms gently rubbing them. "Hey, breathe Daniela, deep breaths." She did so to your surprise though internally she was screaming at you being so close right now, and not in the good way.

"Ok I know you're not gonna like this but, if neither of us can get you blood then drink mine." Any amount of calm she had gained back flew out the window and you had to remind her to breathe again. "What?! No I couldn't! What if I hurt you really bad?!"

You sighed hugging her which after a while she accepted. "Hey, how about this? You can bite my wrist so you can watch my face to see if I'm ok. That sound good?"

She hugged you tighter. After what had to be a good few minutes she answered, albeit hesitantly. "Ok, but if you want me to stop you can do whatever to get me to stop, o-ok?" "Ok."

The two of you sat down on one of the coaches in the library. She was shaking, either from nerves or her hunger you didn't know, but you knew you wanted her to be ok. "Ready?" "Yeah. I trust you, Dani." The nickname slipped out causing you both to blush.

"Ok. It's gonna hurt though so if you don't wanna-" You cut her off "I'm sure. And I handle pain well, so you're ok." "Ok." She answered shyly. She held your wrist in her hand and rubbed it with her thumb, and leaned down after looking at you to triple check you were ok. To your surprise she kissed your wrist a few times before biting into it.

You flinched slightly but you were ok. It also kind of felt, good? Maybe it was because it was Daniela sucking on your wrist and you felt comfortable around her. Her pupils were dilated and she started biting a little harder and sucking rougher, she was losing control. You rubbed her back to try and ground her so she'd calm down, you could handle pain but that doesn't mean you like it.

She pulled back soon after licking the remaining blood off your wrist before looking at you to which you just smiled at her. "That enough? You can take a little more if you need to." She just hugged you and said "No that will be enough until I can get more the normal way. Thank you y/n, you really are the only one besides mother and my sisters who are truly nice to me. No other servant would do this for me, or any of us." "You don't have to thank me for that." You said rubbing the back of your neck looking away.

She held your arm and put her head on your shoulder. After a bit of comfortable silence you noticed her staring at you so you looked at her, before you could say anything she did.

"Why did you help me? Or are nice to me at all." Your heart broke a little at that. "I helped you because I care about you. At first I thought you were really scary, and you can be but, after just being in the same space as you often and talking, I realized you're not as evil as people think."

She looked at you smiling "I didn't know you were not only cute but sweet too! Though I probably should have guessed with all the romance books you read." You blushed at her again, at least she was feeling better enough to flirt with you like she normally does, voice not strained. She chuckled before sitting up letting go of your arm, hand moving to rest on top yours. "Hey, thank you for all this. I mean it y/n, and…I care about you too." She told you with a small but real smile on her face. Daniela was being serious, anyone could tell.

You smiled back, turning your hand so you could lace your fingers together making her light up. "So, does this make us friends?" Dani looked confused "We weren't already?" You panicked a little "Oh! Well I didn't wanna assume anything, an-!" She just giggled at you, stopping your incoming rant from even starting.

"It's fine y/n/n. I understand you not wanting to presume anything. But we are friends! And now best friends!" She looked really happy and it made you happy too. "Yeah, best friends. I'm good with that."

#re8 fanfiction #resident evil village #dimitrescu daughters x reader #bela dimitrescu x reader #daniela dimitrescu x reader #cassandra dimitrescu x reader #my fic

[anystalker707]

Leave this place

Pairing: Mikey x Reader Word count: ~ 1 700 Genre: Comfort Summary: Mikey meets (y/n) in a trip to California, and doesn't want to leave (y/n) back even if they just spent an afternoon together.

a/n: very old oneshot [March 28th 2020]

"That's a great song." I hear the voice over the sound of the music and look down to see a guy standing on the sidewalk, looking up at me. I lean against the balcony's parapet, my arms over it. My house is practically glued to the sidewalk while the balcony isn't that high.

"Thank you. My friends judge me for liking it." I say through a chuckle.

"It just doesn't happen to me because my own like it too." He says smiling.

None of us have anything else to say, but I feel like continuing the conversation. "What's your name?"

"Michael. Almost everyone calls me Mikey, that works too."

"I'm not almost everyone, Michael." I say in a teasing smile, watching him crack a grin. "I'm (y/n). You can call me (n/n). Almost everyone calls me that." I mock him, and he obviously rolls his eyes, even though they're covered by sunglasses.

"Nice to meet you."

"Same. Are you free now?"

"Yeah...?" He raises an eyebrow, curiously.

"Would your significant other mind if we had a coffee at the cafe by the next corner?" I ask in a confident tone and still fearing a 'no'.

"Well, I guess that if I had one, they'd surely mind." Mikey answers.

"I'll be down there in three." I hold up three fingers before disappearing inside the house. There, I simply throw on my Chuck Taylors, grab my wallet—not forgetting to turn off the music player—and head downstairs, closing the door behind me. Smiling, I stand in front of Mikey. "Let's go?" I ask and he shrugs, tilting his head.

"Who asks a guy they just met for a coffee?" Mikey asks, tucking his hands inside his pants' pockets as we start to walk.

"Me." I reply casually. "I was bored and you seem like a nice guy."

"What if I'm not?"

"I can just walk away anytime I want and I'm sure you won't try to kill me in the middle of other people." I answer looking up at him, a bit pleased with his positive reaction. “Or so I hope.” I chuckle.

We walk inside the said cafe and make our orders. Maybe we're too awkward due to just realizing the whole situation now—sitting across from each other at one of the establishment's small and round tables—and can't start a proper conversation. However, when the waitress walks away after bringing our drinks, I've already gathered enough courage to speak up.

"So, you're new around here?" I raise an eyebrow. It's not everyday a guy I've never seen before shows up in the city; one of the small cities around the big ones and which no one really cares about.

"No, I'm actually here to spend the summer break." He answers, his hand around the base of his coffee cup while he twists it, without raising it from the table. His sunglasses now rest a few inches away from his hand and the cup. Makes sense, it's already June. "I wanted to stay in Los Angeles but the hotel's prices there were too high."

"I understand." I smile and take a sip of my drink. "No one comes here spontaneously."

"I didn't mean it like that!" Mikey says with a hint of desperation; that makes me chuckle.

"Don't worry, it's true. It's not an interesting city, there's nothing for you to do over here." I particularly appreciate the city's calmness, the way you're able to listen better to nature's sound and walk safely through the streets even if it's almost two in the morning. "Where are you from?"

"New Jersey." He answers and I widen my eyes at his response.

"That's by the other side of the country."

"I wanted some adventure." He smiles and I nod understandingly. "What do you do? I mean, what do you work with?"

"I work in a records store."

"Don't you like it?" He asks confusedly, probably because of the heavy tone I used.

"I do, I really do." I nod. "I simply don't appreciate being stuck inside a place the whole day." I chuckle while scratching the back of my neck, awkward for no apparent reason. "It's that I also wish to explore more about the world, get to know other places. Sadly my payment doesn't allow it." I smile sadly, bringing my drink to my lips once again. "And you?"

He doesn't answer at first. Wondering why, I look up and our eyes lock for a couple of seconds before he inhales. "I play in a band. I'm the bassist."

"Oh, really?" I say, interested in the fact. "That sounds amazing. What's its name? Is it on the radio?"

"Not yet." The corner of Mikey's lips curl up into a dreamer smile. "It's called My Chemical Romance, we've started not long ago."

"Sounds nice. I hope to listen to one of your songs through the radio or to watch a music video on MTV any day." I grin, what makes him visibly happier.

"Thanks."

We continue chatting about his band until we finish our drinks and decide to walk around the city right after. Barely any car or person passes by; it's an usual summer break day, where most of the people are traveling while the minority that's still here, enjoys the rest of the Sunday afternoon inside their houses, probably watching a soccer match or any soap opera.

Mikey tries to get to know more about me after we talked so much about his life. I tell him about it, explaining why I am alone in a city which I have no relatives in. He doesn't judge it, just listens and nods, commenting here and there.

The subject eventually dies and we just make random comments about things we see around; eventually making a joke and snickering at it.

I like Mikey. I hoped we lived near each other—he's a nice person and we hit it off really well. He seems to be a quiet kind of person but still talked and laughed with me. It's been a long time since I have that kind of casual and comfortable conversation with anyone. It may sound kind of crazy or desperate, but he seems like the person I've always needed yet never knew it.

It seems like just a couple of hours have passed when we're once again standing in front of my house—when in reality, we spent most of the afternoon together. Now, pinkish and purplish colors take the previous dull light blue tone. We face each other with happy and still sad faces.

"Thanks for stopping to comment about the song." I smile, sighing.

"Thanks for inviting me to go drink that coffee. I could have been an assassin but you were lucky enough." Mikey replies and the both of us giggle at his last comment.

"That's it, I guess." I pause, smiling. "See you tomorrow?"

"Actually," He pauses, nibbling on his bottom lip, watching me carefully, before finally saying a "no" through an exhale.

"What?" I furrow my eyebrows, feeling a sudden desperation already. As if I've received the best gift of my life but it was immediately taken away from me.

"I've got to start the road-trip back to NJ tomorrow." He presses his lips together. "I wish I had come here before. During the day, I mean." He looks sad too, shooting me an apologizing look.

"Oh... that's alright. Good things never stay for long." I breathe a humorless chuckle at my own comment, looking down at my feet, playing with the small rocks over the sidewalk.

"I'm sorry." His tone is guilty and I chuckle again, finding it funny how he blames himself while it's not his fault at all.

"That's alright!" I grin. "Don't make me repeat myself."

Mikey cracks a sad smile and steps closer, raising his arms open. Getting the hint, I hug him, enjoying the sensation of having his arms around myself. He's warm. Comfortable and pleasant. His cologne was already noticeable but I can smell it better now with my face on his shoulder; it smells nice.

Finally, we pull away and once again look at each other sadly. "Have a safe trip." I say in a poor attempt to sound cheerful.

"Stay safe." Mikey says to me, his lips' corners curling up in an also poor attempt to look normal.

And there we stand, for at least half a minute, looking at each other—wanting to say something but not knowing what. Concluding it wouldn't lead anywhere, I turn around and walk to my house's front door, already feeling like there's a weight over my chest; back to the old boring life.

My hand touches the cold doorknob and I'm about to turn it when my name being called by Mikey interrupts me. "What?" I face him, who approaches and stands in front of me.

"I..." He trails off, seeming insecure. He exhales and sucks in a breath, simultaneously seeming more confident. "It may sound crazy, but... do you want to go to New Jersey with me?" Frozen, I stare at him with widened eyes. Is he serious? "You can stay over at my house until you can buy yours, there you'll find a better job and all..."

"Mikey..." I pause, a sea of words flooding my head and I try to choose the right ones. "I-I— It'd take time until I got stable on something-"

"You don't need to repay me later." He blinks, smiling nicely. "I just want to help you. You clearly want a life better than the one you got here and there's no way you'll do it here." I stutter, in another attempt to argue but he continues before I can formulate anything. "More or less one person in the car won't make any difference in the gas' price. I can help you get a job as soon as we get to New Jersey. I've worked in a comic store and they'll gladly accept someone recommended by me." He grins, breathing a light chuckle. "What do you say?" His voice swings in a sudden wave of insecurity.

"I..." I crack a grin, starting to giggle helplessly. What do I have to lose, after all? "Of course!" I hug him, receiving a happy grin in return as his arms wrap around my torso once again. "New Jersey, here I go!" I jump lightly, almost making the both of us fall, chuckling.

________________

Tagging list: @lubbockshusband

#my post #fanfic #fan fiction #x reader #mikey way x reader #mikey way #mcr #mcr x reader #imagine #oneshot #comfort

[imagines-by-a-typical-fangirl]

Unexpected Places (Pt. 02 of 11)

Pairing: Ivar the Boneless X Reader/Bjorn X Reader

Word count: 3 K

Summary: As a princess, you've lived in a golden cage all your life, always a piece on someone else's game. But everything changed when the Norsemen came crushing down on Wessex, like waves in a violent storm. Their king spared your life and decided to take you with him to his kingdom, in what felt more like a rescue than a kidnapping. There, you were not only confronted with a completely different culture and lifestyle, but also with two of his sons. The oldest one has his eyes set on you, but it's the youngest one, Ivar, who gets who claimed your attention since the first sight. And he seems to have an unnamed interest in you. Of course you hoped whatever that was would pass, but when unexpected feelings start to flow a different way, things begin to change.

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{Vikings Masterlist}

×

A Christian Among Vikings

It takes two days to share your entire life with the Queen of Kattegat, but she did seem interested after you started. Mostly on the parts where you give voice to everything you couldn't stand. The lies and hypocrisy. That, Aslaug loves, and you have no trouble telling her that. It feels good to say all these things without the fear of being caught.

So, since today you'll finally go to the feast they're still having for the third night on a roll to celebrate this year's raid, you relax in the tub, the warm water slowly getting colder, a sign that you'll have to leave soon.

You're stretching your legs, watching the water drops rolling from your ankle to your knee, before falling back into the water. “Aslaug, where's the–” The voice makes you turn your head at the door, pulling your legs down to the safety of the water. Ragnar stands there, wide eyes and mouth half-open. “I thought this was my wife.”

“Well, it isn't so go away.” Thanks to the distance, you know he can't see anything, but even so, it makes you uncomfortable.

“I live here, do you know that?” He snaps back and you roll your eyes.

“I don't care. I'm not your wife so get out.”

“This is my–”

“Get out!” You raise your voice, throwing water at him. “Or I'll scream for help.” You're not scared of Ragnar, and you don't think he'll try anything. But you know him enough to know he's a teaser, and he loves putting people in uncomfortable positions.

He raises an eyebrow, shrugging his shoulders. “Then do it.”

Squinting your eyes, you move closer to the edge, making sure he won't be able to see anything. “Help!” You shout, trying not to laugh. The situation is quite funny, and, if he wanted to try anything, he'd already moved. So you decide to play along. “Somebody help me!” When you hear footsteps, you smirk victoriously. But, when another man comes in, the smile fades, and out of instinct, you cross your arms over your chest.

“What's going on here?” The guy asks, confused as hell, furrowing his eyebrows at you and then at Ragnar.

“Princess, this is Hvitserk, my son, who so bravely came to your rescue.” Ragnar starts, pacing around to the other edge of the room. “Hvitserk, this is (Y/N). Aslaug has been keeping her in here I have no idea why.” He sounds a little pissed, but you don't mind him in the back, your eyes focused on his son.

“Hi.”

“Would the two of you just leave?” Now you're annoyed, running a hand through your soaked hair. Relieve washes over you when Aslaug comes through the door, her eyes quickly finding her husband.

“What's going on here?” She mutters, and through the corner of your eye, you see Ragnar already moving.

“Just came to take this.” He answers, showing her something you can't see, right before leaving, grabbing his son's arm and pulling him along.

“Your husband is a complete idiot.” You say, relaxing once again.

“I noticed.” She gestures at the dress she brought you, laying on a chair. “Get dressed. I'll do your hair like a Viking woman and you'll join the feast tonight.”

Doing as she says, you put on the dress, which is different from everything you ever wore. The fabric is strong, yet beautiful, in a wonderful shade of blue with golden details that look like flowers. Aslaug braids your hair, way too patiently, and when she's done, you do look like a Viking. She even teaches you how to paint your eyes, and you wonder why she changed so much in these two days. As you wait for her to get ready, with the aid of her slaves, you decide to ask.

“Why are you being so nice to me now?” Playing with the tip of one of the many braids, you rest your back against the chair you're seated on. “When I got here I thought I'd end up living with that Lagertha.”

“Because it's more than rare to find a Christian I don't find stupid.” Dismissing the girls, she stands up. You're not entirely sure that was a compliment, but you decide to take it. “And I have the feeling, mostly after everything you told me, that this was most of a rescue than a kidnapping.”

She has a point. “It certainly does.”

“Now, come. Today I want to introduce you to the town.”

“Introduce me?” Following her, you wonder what that's about.

Aslaug doesn't answer, and it doesn't take much until you start hearing the feast. How long do these things last? Is the third day and it doesn't seem like anyone is tired. The moment the Queen enters, some heads turns, and, as she stands right before her chair, a silence starts to fall. You stat in the back, waiting to see what's going on when she gestures for you to come. Taking a deep breath, you move to stand next to her.

Many eyes lie on you. Probably all of them. You can identify hate, curiosity, disgust, indifference... And other things you can't quite place. At least you look like one of them... It must be of some help.

“People of Kattegat, this is Princess (Y/N), daughter of King Ecbert of Wessex,” Aslaug speaks, loud and clear. “She was brought here by my husband, and now will live among us.” That gets some people talking. They're not particularly excited about a Christian among them... You can't blame them. Your people kill them, and they kill your people back. They're like natural enemies. “I'm aware of the fact that you have no affection for her kind, and neither do I. So that's why she will tell you what she told me.”

A breath gets caught on your throat, and for a moment you feel like you're back home, forced to admit your sins, even though you haven't committed any. You've been in situations like this, but now, it's different. You can speak. You can let out the very thoughts that once had you imprisoned, confined to your chambers for days no end. Maybe they'll understand, unlike people in Wessex. Aslaug did. “Tell what?” You ask because you did speak great too many things with her. You have no idea where to begin.

“Tell them about your relationship with your faith.” She seems so secure, unbothered by how some men and women look so angry at this whole thing.

Taking a deep breath, you look ahead, eyes scanning through the room for any kind face... But it takes a long time until you find that Ragnar son who went to your rescue, Hvitserk. He doesn't look like he hates you, so you focus on him. “I have no love for the Catholic faith.” You start, stepping forward. “Since I was little, they've been telling me you worship false gods, made of stone, wood, iron, and silver. But they do the same.” Hvitserk furrows his eyebrows as if asking something. “My father himself spent hours repeating prayers for a cross made of gold. They accuse you of doing the same things they do.” If your older brother heard this, you'd be whipped, probably. “They're all hypocrites, punishing and condemning people for the same sins they commit, over and over again, and that I could never accept.” Chuckling, you move your eyes from Hvitserk, noticing how some angry faces are now... Inquisitive. “I was told you're all murderers, but so are they. So what if you come home covered by the blood of your enemies? Isn't that what a battle is? If it was me on the battlefield, I'd rather kill a hundred men than die by their hands.” The hall erupts on yells and shouts, hands being raised. It takes you by surprise, and for a moment, you're scared they heard enough, and decided to end your life right here and now. But the yells are from... Praising, approval. “And, as Ragnar Lothbrok as my witness, I'd rather face death than go back into the life I had there. If I can even call that a life.”

“That's true.” Bjorn raises his voice, coming from behind some men. “The moment she learned her father was dead, he stood before my father, ready to face her fate. I've never seen a Christian girl do that.”

“Don't forget about how she stood in the pouring rain with that idiot over there,” Ragnar says, pointing out his hand at Floki, who's standing on a chair or something, at the very back, watching the commotion.

Floki giggles, tilting his head at Ragnar. “Even though she can't swim. And don't get me wrong, I'd still rather she fell off to the mighty waves than have her here with us.”

“Don't say that Floki,” Aslaug warns, moving to sit on her chair. “I plan to make a Viking out of (Y/N) since she's more than eager to leave behind everything she once knew.”

“No doubt.” You mutter, wondering if this is it, if you can go sit down somewhere.

“What about that man, Edward?” Bjorn asks, coming to stand before you. He's so damn tall. You don't think you ever met a man this tall before. “You said something about a marriage.”

“Oh, that.” Rolling your eyes, you shrug your shoulders. “My father would have me dragged down the aisle in chains if it was necessary since the political implications of the union were... Delicate. But you guys decided to show up and ruin his plans. Thankfully.”

“Was he that bad?”

“The most disgusting man I've ever met in my life, so, as the Queen said herself a few moments earlier...” Turning at the people once again, you sigh. You don't expect to be accepted by everyone here, you just hope they won't hate you. Not so much, at least. “This was more like a rescue than a kidnapping.”

“Well, now that you know our new resident, I must make something very clear,” Aslaug speaks up, her voice rising above everyone else's. “(Y/N) is a free woman.” She takes a cup from the small table set next to her chair, spinning it in her hand, not bothering to look up from it. “Whoever touches her loses the balls, the hands, and the tongue... As a start.”

You giggle, thinking she's joking, but by the way, the silence persists for quite a long time, you understand that was no joke. And that's very good. That will surely keep them away from you.

“Well, let's celebrate!” Ragnar shouts, and everyone sets in motion again.

You're not sure where to go, so you find a table that's half-empty to sit down, taking a cup and filling it. Being isolated for two days with Aslaug didn't really help you being sociable, and it does feel like you're from two different worlds now. Because that's the truth, even though you're dressed like them. There's an invisible barrier keeping everyone distant, and not only for what Aslaug just said.

“Hey there.” Someone says as they settle down by your side. Hvitserk glances at you, kindly smiling. “Sorry about earlier. Heard a girl screaming, thought something bad was happening.”

“Well, something bad was happening. Your father was annoying me to death.” Taking a few sips from your drink, your eyes find that man again, Ivar. He's seated on Ragnar's chair, chatting with his mother. As if being called, he stares straight at you, suddenly angry.

“I see you already met my little brother,” Hvitserk mutters, and only then do you notice he had followed your gaze.

Clearing your throat, you look away. “Not really. But by the looks of it, he hates me.”

“I wouldn't say he hates you. Ivar is just... Not really fond of the idea of–”

“Of a Christian girl among us.” The voice comes from the head of the table, and when you raise your eyes, you see the man himself. But this time, you don't let his eyes pull you. Somehow, you manage to distract yourself. “You know you're only here because my mother wants to turn you into a Viking.”

“I'm not interested in being anything else than myself.” Drinking what is left on your cup, you sigh. “Haven't had the chance since I was born.”

“Do you really expect anyone here to believe you didn't like being a princess?” His tone is mocking you, a fake pity expression on his face.

“Being a princess in England might be fun if you just do as everyone says, no questions asked.” For some reason, you're pissed. Ivar pushed some button that got you suddenly annoyed, so you stand up, bending over the table to get the jar and refill your cup. But before you can reach it, Ivar takes the thing, drinking straight from it, some of the liquid dripping on his chin. Sighing, you squint your eyes at him, a humorless laugh escaping your lips.

“Here.” The voice gets your attention, and when you turn at him, you see Bjorn filling your cup again. “This one's better anyway.”

“Thanks.” Sitting back down, you give Ivar one last glance before taking long sips.

“Are you going to live here?” Bjorn asks. “Or are you going to live with my mother after all?”

“I'm staying.” Nodding, you look at him. His mother is the most famous shieldmaiden in the world, a skillful fighter. Also Ragnar's ex-wife, reason why Aslaug can't stand her. “The Queen already helped me settle on my chambers.”

“That's good.” He smiles, and a man pushes his shoulder quite violently. Bjorn turns to face him, cursing, but soon enough bursting into laughter.

Ignoring the two men, you look down at your cup, now almost empty again. Music starts playing suddenly, and it doesn't take much for people to start dancing. It gets louder as the minutes go by, and Ragnar and Floki stand on your table, moving around and laughing, kicking everything out. Your eyes follow the whole commotion, standing up and stepping away from the table when they get a little too close. But you don't mind. You've never seen people acting so... Crazy. So happy. And you can't stop smiling, seeing as other people join them.

“I bet you never saw anything like that,” Hvitserk says, raising his voice a little to make himself heard. “I know how boring the feats are in England.”

“This is so much better.” Ragnar jumps to the ground, but one of his legs get caught in between the bench and the table, making him fall. But on the next second, he's up again, a smile on his lips. “My brother would have a heart attack if he ever saw this.”

“Aethelwulf?”

“Yeah.” Someone bumps on your back, making you almost fall. But Hvitserk holds you up, and he seems quite confused to find you laughing. “What? It's alright, I like it. At least this chaos is real, people aren't faking it.” As your eyes move through the hall, you find Ragnar, behind this weird curtain made of leather. You didn't even know he left. “What's that weirdo doing over there?”

“He's observing.” Hvitserk answers, leaning closer and lowering his voice. “From back there, he can see who's sleeping with who. Who's not sleeping with who anymore, who may be plotting something to put him in a dangerous position.”

“Smart guy.” Nodding to yourself, your attention is stolen by the crowd, that starts moving outside, shouting something you can't really understand. “What's going on?”

“Someone's gonna fight. Come watch.” Hvitserk helps you walk among the people, all the way to the beach. Torches came out of nowhere, illuminating the night. Everyone seems oddly happy for this to be about a fight, but Hvitserck wasn't wrong. On the sand, the two men pace around each other, shouting, cursing.

“What's this about?” It happened out of nowhere, and you're not sure how serious this is. The warriors are clearly pissed at each other, but the public is cheerful. This is when you feel how new and different this culture is. Something like this would never happen back at Wessex, and it will take a while for you to get used and understand how things work here. It's a shock, a sudden impact.

“They're both in love with the same woman. She claims she loves both, but they won't share.” Hvitserk explains, as someone passes him a torch, which he holds up high. “The one who survives gets to be with her.”

“Damn.” You mutter as the two men start attacking each other. You've never seen an actual fight. Girls aren't allowed on the battlefield, mostly not a princess. The only glimpses you had were from soldiers training, and it was nothing compared to this. This is violent, powerful, and you can't help but be impressed by their skills. Of course they're good. They're Vikings, a freaking force of nature, they had told you back in England. It's impressive how they keep getting back up, even after so many wounds. Cuts, punches, everything.

A particular loud shout coming from the crowd gets your attention. It's Ivar, seated on the sand, eyes shining and a bright smile on his lips. He's enjoying this. Everyone is, actually. And once again, as if you called his name out loud, he turns to look at you. And somehow you know exactly what he's looking for. Fear, desperation. He wants to see if you're scared.

But... You're not.

Every single person here is joyfully yelling, and those two men choose their fates. They're not being forced to it, it was their decision, as it was yours to stand up, neck exposed, ready for the ax Ragnar was holding. They're choosing to face death, fearlessly.

Then, your eyes aren't on Ivar anymore, but following the men's every move. It doesn't take much for you to gasp and yelp when one or the other successes to throw a blow. You feel like a savage, laughing at the thought of what your father and brother would say if they saw you now.

When the tallest man, with long dark hair, falls dead, the crowd goes insane. The victorious raises both his hands, still holding an ax. A woman comes from the crowd, hugging and kissing him. “That's insane.” You chuckle, running a hand through your braided hair. “Teach me.” The request comes out suddenly, and you don't even give it much thought.

“Are you sure about it?” He asks, looking down at you. Hvitserk is being nice to you, and that's a surprise.

“I mean, I could never be a shieldmaiden but... I'd like to know how to defend myself.”

“Well, I've got nothing to do tomorrow, so I guess we could start.”

Furrowing your eyebrows, you smile. “Thanks. You're the quickest and... Probably the most real friend I've ever made.”

“Yeah, you'll need someone to help you out around here until you get the hang of things. Ragnar gave me this task.”

“Oh...” Looking down, you start walking back to the hall, following Hvitserk's pace. Maybe it was a little stupid to expect him to be so nice to you. “You don't have to. I will get used to things on my own.”

“I didn't mean it like that.” He quickly responds, leaving the torch on some post along the way. “You're pretty cool, actually. For a Christian. You've been a good friend so far.” He gives you a glance and a smirk. “And I don't have to obey my father, you know.”

Blushing a little, you giggle. “Thanks again, then.”

“Now, get a good night sleep and get ready for tomorrow, I mean...” Hvitserk takes a look over his shoulder, a little too dramatic for your taste. “If my older brother doesn't mind it.”

“What do you mean?” Following his gaze, you find Bjorn staring. He doesn't seem angry, but he's not happy either.

“I think Bjorn likes you.”

“And? If it wasn't for you I wouldn't have watched the fight.” Shrugging your shoulders, you stop at the entrance of the hall, waiting as the crowd moves inside. “You've done more for me than he did tonight.”

“So you enjoyed the fight?”

“I have no idea why, or how, but I did.” Nodding, you smile again. “Now, friend, let's drink some more, and maybe I'll consider dancing.” Gesturing at the hall, you both walk in.

The warmth is welcome, and you soon find your way back to the table. But, as you sit down, you see Ivar again, crawling. He moves fast, talking to a man. As he moves past your table, he gives you a stare. It's different from before, but you can't read it. His eyes, like magnets, attract you in a way you didn't even know was possible. You think about waving, or smiling, but then he looks away and disappears inside the house.

“Don't mind Ivar,” Hvitserk says, and you look down at your cup. “He'll get used to your presence.”

“Let's hope he will.”

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#ivar the boneless imagine #ivar imagine #imagine ivar #ivar vikings #ivar the boneless #imagine ivar vikings #imagine ivar the boneless #ivar the boneless fanfiction #ivar the boneless x reader #ivar vikings x reader #ivar x reader #imagine vikings #vikings x reader #vikings fanfiction #bjorn imagine #imagine bjorn

[theimpossiblehologramtree]

Making Queen members flower crowns would include

Pairing: Queen members x reader

Word count: (altogether) 1800+

Warnings: some sickening fluff, oh and swearing but that’s a standard, some slightly suggestive themes in john’s (implied sex) but nothing accually happens except a kiss

A/N: Hello you beautiful people! I’m back (don’t get used to that tho lol) I thought of this two years ago when i first saw Bohemian Rhapsody (SO 2 FUCKING YEARS AGO). Freddie’s is gender neutral. I tried to add a “keep reading” button but I’m not sure it works tbh because this hell of a side never cooperates.

Please keep in mind that English is not my first language.

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Gifs aren’t mine. Credits to the owners.

Brian May

You were laying on Brian's lap, the sun hitting your face pleasantly. This week the weather was nice and warm, which was something extremely unusual in England, so the two of you decided to head out to the country and have a little picnic.

After what felt like hours spent in the car ("Brian, for Christ's sake, would you open the bloody window, I can't breathe!" and "Bri, I love you, but if we don't get there in five minutes, I'm going to murder you, I swear") you finally found a nice clearing, where you could relax and forget about the stresses of city life.

Brian put down a blanket on the grass, near a small stream that flew through the forest. He brought the bag with food and drinks (you didn't have a basket, so you had to improvise). 

You quickly put some sunscreen on your face and laid down, keeping your head propped on Brian's lap. He put a hat over his face and fell asleep, his chest rising steadily. 

After some time (that fucking wasp didn't let you sit in one place), you stood up and noticed many beautiful flowers, growing on a nearby bush. You got lost in picking up the most beautiful ones, admiring each one carefully. When you got enough, you sat back down and started tying the stems together.

Suddenly you got an idea. Careful not to wake him up, you began sticking the flowers in Brian's dark curls. 

Your now decorated boyfriend woke up and stretched, not noticing the colourful addition to his hair. This made you chuckle softly, but you decided to see how long it would take him to realize.

+"What is it, babe? Do I have something on my face?"

"No, Bri, I just remembered a funny joke, that's all."

"Oh tell me, then."

"What’s the difference between a lawnmower and an electric guitar?"

"Hm?"

"You can tune a lawnmower!"

You both enjoyed the rest of the day swimming in the stream, sunbathing and eating the snack you brought. And Brian somehow still didn't notice.

Until it was time for you to get home.

You got in the car ("Open the window now, it's like in the oven in here!") and Brian looked into the rear-view mirror.

+"Hey, (Y/N), what the fuck is that? I love it."

Roger Taylor

So honestly it would probably happen during one of his concerts.

You were backstage watching the show, enjoying every second of it. Freddie was in the middle of shouting some (very inappropriate) compliments to Brian's ass, slapping his buttcheeks. The crowd immediately went wild hundreds of fans screamed in unison. You chuckled under your breath, flashing a white smile at your beloved boyfriend Roger and his bandmates. You felt an arm wrap around your shoulders. Surprised, you turned around, your eyes meeting Mary's.

+"What's up, kiddo?" she smirked and patted your back.

"Oh, nothing much. Just Freddie being Freddie," you replied, making both of you erupt with laughter.

Suddenly you felt a familiar feeling form in the pit of your stomach. Out of nowhere, your hands became shaky, your breath shallow and quick. Feeling like you need some fresh air, you excused yourself.

+"Are you sure you're okay, (Y/N)?" Mary watched you carefully, her hand supporting you in case you fainted.

"Yes, Mary, I just need some fresh air. I'm extremely tired, and I haven't eaten anything since this morning" you reassured your friend. "I'm just gonna sit outside for a while."

"Do you want me to come with you?" she asked, still not convinced about your well-being.

"Yes, I wouldn't want to spoil the gig for you. I'll be back before you know it" you squeezed her hand and, after promising her to be careful, you headed outside.

You took a walk alongside the small patch of lawn beside the exit. After taking a couple of deep breaths, you noticed some daisies grow in the green grass. Without thinking much, you sat down and started picking them up and tying their stems together.

Your fingers worked quickly, making a beautiful flower crown, mindlessly.

Meanwhile, on stage, the boys were singing She makes me - a song that reminded Roger of you. He quickly glanced to his right, expecting to see your beautiful figure standing with Mary. But, much to his surprise, he couldn't see you anywhere. It was no secret that his eyesight was shit but, bloody hell, it wasn't that bad. His blue eyes were searching for you, frantically.

When the song ended, he quickly motioned to Freddie to take a quick break, while he went to check up on you. He practically sprinted to Mary, almost knocking down his drumkit and John.

+"You dumb fuck, watch where you're going, Rog!"

Usually, Roger would reply with some snarky comment, but at that moment he really didn't care. When he reached Mary, he didn't even need to ask her about you. 

+"She's outside. Needed some fresh air" the girl shooked her head towards the exit. 

Roger quickly walked outside, knowing that he couldn't stall the audience for too long. But at the same time, he must have made sure you were all right.  

He got out of the building and searched for you. He spotted to sitting on a small patch of grass, holding a pretty flower crown in your hands. His heart ached at this sight. 

+"Hello, love" he whispered, kneeling next to you. "Are you all right?"

"Yes, I am, Rog" you kissed his cheek. "I just felt a bit off, that's all." 

You felt your boyfriend press a kiss to your hair. You smiled at the feeling, leaning into his touch. 

You finally placed the finished flower crown on his head, brushing away loose strands of sweaty hair from his face, your hand gently brushing his temple. He took your tiny hands in his and kissed your fingers.

+"Do you wanna go back in there, sweetheart?" he asked sweetly, looking deeply into your eyes.

You nodded and pecked his lips, "Of course, Rog, I wouldn't want to miss any more of your show."

He smiled and lead you inside, placing his hand on the small of your back. You returned to Mary and wished your boyfriend good luck. 

Roger kept the flowers on his head throughout the whole gig, sending you a dashing smile and winking at you every now and again.

I just think Roger would look sososo pretty in a flower crown.

John Deacon

It was a lovely afternoon in London. You and your fiancé John decided to take a walk after the whole day in the studio, recording songs.

Taking a walk in a nearby park was a great way to destress and release the tension accumulated during the day. It was something John realized pretty early on in your relationship and took full advantage of it. He loved wandering along the pebbled pathways that swirled around beautiful trees and bushes full of colourful flowers. Being in the presence of nature made him feel at ease and helped him relax.

But the real reason why he enjoyed your walks so much was you. He adored seeing your face light up with joy when you saw a squirrel run up a branch of an old oak or when you spotted a particularly beautiful fish in the small pond. He could watch you pick up fallen leaves for ages and hear you talk to little kids in a playground, showing them the shiny rocks you collected along the way.

To be honest, he always dreamt about starting a family with you and seeing you get along with kids so well only increased that desire.

Often after a walk, he was in the mood™, which, considering his shy nature, always took you by surprise.

Oh man, he just loved taking a walk in the park.

And today was no different.

You were walking hand in hand, admiring the blossoming flowers. Occasionally, you would stop and pick them up, making a small bouquet in the process. White daisies, pink clovers and blue forget-me-nots accumulated with every step you took.

John was telling you about the new idea he had for a song, kissing your cheek every now and again.

Listening to him, you started to fiddle with the flowers, tying them in knots. After a while ("And then, I think, we could include a gong, you know?") you were done with your creation.

You put the flowers on John's head and kissed his temple.

+"What's that, darling?" he asked you, surprised.

"Nothing, but I think you look sensational, my love" you replied, smiling innocently.

You felt John's hand bring you closer to him. He kissed you, entangling his long and incredibly skilled fingers in your hair. The kiss soon turned into more heated one.

+"I'll show you how sensational I really am, pretty girl."

Freddie Mercury

So with Freddie, it was probably at one of his parties.

He invited you along to have a drink with him and his bandmates.

You usually weren't the one for big and loud parties, but he kept asking you and you gave in.

+"Oh okay, Fred, I'll do it," you said after the twentieth time he had asked you.

"Fantastic, (Y/N)!" he exclaimed, loudly clapping his hands. "Just remember to wear a costume."

But you didn't really want to dress up in fancy dresses or costumes from different eras. Calling Mary, you asked her for advice and she told you to just wear some accessories.

So before the party, you went to a small flower shop and bought a small bouquet of purple lilacs. At home, you made a flower crown, hoping that dressing up as a nymph would be enough.

When you got to Freddie's house, you were greeted by a crowd of people in colourful skirts and suits with fashionable patterns. That's when you found Freddie, Roger, Brian and John, chilling on a couch with their dates.

+"Oh, (Y/N), you look marvellous, darling!" exclaimed Freddie dressed as a king, while he stood up to embrace you in a warm hug.

"Thank you, Fred, I made it myself" you smiled shyly.

You got some champagne and joined the conversation.

Suddenly, you felt a pat on your shoulder, and, when you turned around, you saw Freddie holding out a hand to you, asking you to dance with him. You gladly accepted and got up. 

+"I really meant it, darling. You do look marvellous tonight" he whispered in your ear.

"Thank you, Freddie, you can have it if you'd like" you sent him a warm smile.

You took off his golden crown and set it aside. Gently taking off the flower crown from your head, you placed it on top of Fred's. He beamed at you and put his own crown on top of your head.

+"Now you rule here, darling."

taglist

#queen #queen x reader #brian may #roger taylor #john deacon #freddie mercury #ben!roger #gwilym!brian #joe mazello!john #majka writes #brian may x reader #roger taylor x reader #john deacon x reader #freddie mercury x reader #ben!roger taylor x reader #gwilym!brian x reader #joe!john deacon x reader #ben hardy!roger taylor x reader #gwil!brian may x reader #gwilym lee!brian may x reader #ben hardy x reader #gwilym lee x reader #joe mazello x reader #bohemian rhapsody

[toujoursmiraculous]

Thoughts and Reaction to Lies!

It's another long one because so much happens in this episode! The episode starts with Marinette trying to figure out a "secret" within the grimoire. Literal first thought was that this "secret" may be the key to waking up Emilie. It's obviously going to be of huge significance later, anyway. By looking at that piece on Adrien, it does appear Adrien has an amazing life. And really, that's what a lot of people think. That's the point of featuring him. A life of a celebrity is pretty amazing, really interesting and fascinating. But it's also filled with a lot of stress, chaos, loneliness, etc. But viewers rarely ever see it. As for Marinette, while Adrien has said things about what his father allows that makes him sad, we haven't ever heard him complain to her in any way about that lifestyle. To her, he's a guy whose father has him busy with activities (interesting ones at that) and very rarely ever lets him spend time with friends. I love how this episode parallels Truth! But Adrien's POV. My boy has an episode centered around him, finally!

So we know her standing Chat Noir up is because Luka came by reminding her of a date she forgot she rescheduled. You know she's extremely distracted and stressed when she can't remember a date with Luka or a patrol with Chat Noir, or remember that she planned them at the same time. It's really not her fault, and I feel so bad for her that things are becoming so difficult. "No messages, but don't forget my cheese!" LOL this is perfect. Plagg has to get that reminder in wherever he can! The Chat Noir appreciation was so wholesome to see awww, I bet so many boys in Paris look up to him, so sweet x33 Mr. Banana, Chat Noir, and the man who frequently is Mr. Pigeon just chilling on a bench in the park together. What a scene! lol But Chat wanting them to be akumatized so he could see Ladybug. Big oof. He's going to get his wish, a few times over. Careful what you wish for, Kitty! "A glass of milk as usual, mister Chat Noir?" Okay so when Chat's down, he goes to that bar and has a glass of milk. Or more if he's having a bad day. Awwwww. If you think about it, Adrien probably isn't allowed to have milk. With the fat content and all. :/ Kagami lying to her mother and Nathalie/Gabriel just to spend some time with Adrien. Considering how difficult their lives are, that's pretty impressive to be so brave. Not too fond of the lying part though, since there's not a noble reason for doing so. But I can understand it. We found out Kagami's real passion: drawing! Which is pretty cool. That's one thing Kagami and Marinette have in common that'd make them good friends. Very sad how her blind mother tells her she's not good enough. That just tells you what she thinks of her daughter and what she wants her to do with her life. She's afraid she'll pursue the arts rather than something practical, so best shoot down any thoughts of being an artist now. And then, like with all episodes that have Kagami in them, this is where I start to dislike her. "I want to draw the real you, on the inside." Adrien makes various model poses, none work for her as she knows they're just him being a model. Then he actually poses as himself. A silly, goofy cat having fun and being happy. Adorable. "What do you think of... CAT?" deathglare "No, this is absolutely not natural." "Yes it is. I promise, this is really me!" "NO! This is you when you're acting like a clown!" Adrien looking hurt, "But maybe when I act like a clown, it's really me." Then she takes his hand, (gently) pushes him back up against the wall, her hands on his chest, "That way, that's who you really are." What way? Her telling him how to be is who he really is? He stammers, looking very uncomfortable. "But are you sure?" "Yes... you are perfect." Then she leans in to kiss him, while he's still looking uncomfortable. Right here, she's trying to tell him who he is. What kind of relationship is healthy and a good one one at that, when one side is trying to tell the other who they are, how they must act, etc? That's toxic. Keep in mind, after this scene, during Truth's attack. He found out that Ladybug actually in fact loves (said she prefers) the humorous, "clown" side of him. Yes, she only knows it as Chat Noir for now, but she actually appreciates and loves Chat for who he is. Kagami doesn't love nor appreciate that side of Adrien. Which is a very big and important side of him. We knew this in Ikari Gozen, she couldn't stand the thought of Chat Noir being compared to Adrien, pretty sure she even seemed offended by it if memory serves. But it's laid out more in Lies, it's more direct. (Marinette's done this too in the past, but when she's done it, her tone's more like pssssh please! while she looks off to the side, like she's mostly just telling herself that, to convince herself, rather than believing it.) Kagami thinks she knows Adrien, knows that him being funny and a clown is not the "real" him. Acting like she knows him better than he knows himself. Thinking he's perfect. That was a very hurtful thing to have said and you can see it in his expression the same kind of pain and hurt

he gets a lot. I also want to talk about how watching her back Adrien up against the wall like that and leaning into kiss him made me feel particularly uncomfortable. While they might have a little thing going on, he was clearly not comfortable by it and it just did not sit well with me. This entire scene was riddled with red flags. Adrien smiled at the end of that on his way out, yes, but having someone tell you you're perfect would seem like a compliment to you, wouldn't it? The one you like thinks you're perfect, thinks the facade you put up is perfect and anything less isn't okay with them. That'll end up so well! The almost kissing scenes this episode literally had me like

I'm sorry, I just feel so very uncomfortable by them, I can't help it. xD Just before Chat Noir sneaked up on Ladybug, he almost kissed Kagami right? And yet here he is, being a bit flirty, saying he's missed her on patrols. I also want to point out she tells him to stop with his stupid jokes, because she doesn't want to accidentally hurt him! She could've hurt him by scaring her like that. While she likes his humor, they're only problematic if it puts himself in danger or distracts them from fighting an akuma. "I promise I won't forget our patrols anymore." The looks that passed between LB and CN here is just so cute! OOOF as Luka walks away sad because Marinette had to run off, here comes Adrien, about to do the exact same thing as Marinette to Kagami... Now Kagami's not as accepting of him running off as she was just a little while ago.

Even Andre's like, what the heck was that?! His expression watching Adrien run off made me laugh, I had to share it. I was wondering how Adrien got to the boathouse before Marinette did, as it made it seem like Adrien was there long before Marinette was. He just ran in and started playing along where they were. Good lord, he has a lot going on too, doesn't he? Only difference from Marinette here is Adrien has a built-in and believable excuse he can tell his friends. Kagami's forceful "Adrien, it's time." "Five little minutes?" *shakes head sternly* Who does this remind you of in Adrien's life already? Is this what a good girlfriend, what a good friend would do? And here again is the pattern we see a lot with Kagami. She manipulates situations so that they can spend time together. Adrien wants to spend time with his friends AND girlfriend at the same time. Rehearsing for their band, it looks like. He rarely ever gets to spend time with others, be a normal kid. But no, she drags him away early, making it sound like they had to leave, but it's just her wanting him to herself. When he couldn't go to New York, oh well that's unfortunate you're sad, but we can spend more time together now, isn't that great? It's about what she wants, not what he wants or what's best for Adrien. She spends more time with Adrien (not counting Ladybug spending time with Chat Noir here) than anyone else does by the looks of it, and she doesn't even know him at all. It's really sad. Adrien still carrying around Marinette's lucky charm bracelet in his pocket x3333 This never fails to make me happy. But oof that boy's seriously going to lose it one of these days if he's not careful! There's something different about seeing the Ladynoir scene on the roof that we got in Truth, but from Adrien's perspective. Something about it feels like it means more to me, idk. Adrien gets caught in a lie, saying he lost something but found it. Kagami asked what it was, holding Marinette's lucky charm behind her back. He says it was the lucky charm Marinette gave her, as he's scrambling in his pocket to pull it out seeming a bit frazzled, but realizes he actually in fact lost it (again! he says). But Kagami caught him in that lie, showing him that she actually had it.

I'm not sure if he's so shocked because she actually had it and wonders how she got it, or if he looks like that because he just got caught in a lie. But the way his eyebrows raised a little makes it seem like he's surprised she had it after all and was testing him the whole time. I've always hated the way sometimes someone when in a relationship will test the other one like this. Really not fair in Adrien's case at all. Things aren't always as they may seem. And here's the thing, she's admitting to him that she's lying just to be with him. She lies all the time. Adrien caught on that she was lying, but didn't really understand why I don't think. Earlier in the episode he says, "What are you hiding, Kagami?" he didn't know her purpose for it. Now she says, "We're both liars, the difference is I lie to be with you. You. You lie to get away from me." Which is a yes but actually no situation. It's not that he doesn't want to be with her, it's that he needs to get away temporarily. It just looks really, really bad. Getting off track from that conversation briefly, but that scene where the akuma goes off into the night, with the blurred city lights that becomes clear. Just wow. That shot is beautiful, I can't help myself from playing it back and admiring it. I'm also totally digging the new transformation music! it gives me 90s vibes and makes me happy. Seeing Jagged after Truth is just completely different xD "I fear nothing, I am an artist! I still hold to my fans." Both Roth: "Wrong, you lie to them about your age!" "That's not Rock and Roll!" Had me rolling!! Jagged sure is something XD Chat just up and about to cataclysm the sphere, thinking he'd be okay because he doesn't lie. Except he lies all the time to protect his identity and get himself away from people so he can transform. xD Silly Kitty. The drone as a Lucky Charm is super cool! In Truth, Chat Noir said a truth about how he felt about Ladybug. In Lies, he tells lies to Lies to get her attention. "My name's not Chat Noir! I'm not a superhero! I hate Ladybug! And I think Hawk Moth should've called himself Panfly! It's funnier! Oh, I was about to forget: my favorite dish is cabbage with white sauce! Yummy!" Cabbage...with white sauce... as a dish. Is this like, a real fancy dish or something or is this boy being completely starved? o.o CN: "There are only two more liars left in Paris, and one of them knows how to turn his attention." LB: "No, wait! Don't do that! What if I'm mistaken?" "You know what? I trust you." he lets go, sacrificing himself again "Chat Noir, no! Don't do that! You're crazy!" "Yes, crazy for you, m'lady." Says softly, sadly, "No, you're just crazy unconscious." This ENTIRE scene right here. The love, the trust, the pain in this scene. It's so beautiful and well done that I can't stop getting emotional from it and gushing! Everything's on the line from that decision, and the trust he has for her, the faith he has in her really helps her know she can do what she needs to do. She's always doubting herself, and he's always there to say he doesn't feel that way at all, and it gives her that confidence and courage she needs. The moment Chat Noir is okay, the first thing Ladybug does is run up and smack him, grabbing him anxiously saying "Seriously, you need to stop doing this to me!" The girl is stressed seeing her partner sacrifice himself time and again! IF THIS BOY DOESN'T REALIZE JUST HOW MUCH SHE CARES ABOUT HIM AT THIS POINT, I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY. Any fan that still thinks Ladybug doesn't love Chat Noir and thinks poorly of him, clearly does not understand it at all. My Ladynoir heart is SO HAPPY! I was thrilled with them in Truth, but this is a totally different level. I'm almost in tears with how happy I am. And then I noticed something. I don't know if it's anything or not. But Chat Noir says to her, "Yes, but it's because I find that angry look of yours irresistable." and Kagami turns around to look at him, only him and never Ladybug. Just watching him. Which is a bit... odd. "Ahh, Ladybug..." he sighs. After what

just happened, I don't blame him! x3 These two are honestly fire. When D'Argencort has to step in to keep Kagami from hurting Adrien during fencing... Doesn't matter how upset she is, that's gross to physically take it out on him to the point a teacher has to intervene. Kagami tells Adrien she knows he's hiding something, but that he's sincere, too. But when he asks if they can't be friends then, she responds, "How can you trust someone who lied to you?" and finally gives him back the lucky charm. Ever since Gorizilla, I've been worrying of him losing it for good! Glad she gave it back to him. I've said it already, but he's really going to lose that thing if he's not careful! "When I'm ready to see you again, I'll let you know." and she just leaves. I get she's upset, he's been lying to her to get away when he's with her and all that. But this is worse than what happened with Lukanette. Luka wanted to actually know what was going on, he asked Marinette about it directly. She told him honestly, it's the one thing she can't tell him. Kagami on the other hand never actually asked. During one of the scenes when he was spacing out, she asked what was the matter is all. All she's cared about is that he's lied, and now that he's lied she can't trust him. Doesn't even want to hear him out, not that he'd explain it to her. Kagami doesn't even want to see Adrien for awhile now. At least Luka's more understanding and isn't as harsh being in the exact same situation. This poor boy... But it's also for the best. Marinette and Adrien both after breaking up with Luka and Kagami, decided to transform and meet up to just be in each other's company. They're both sad, but not especially so. "Do you know what the difference is, between us and the rest of the world, m'lady? We can't be completely honest with each other. We have our secrets, and sometimes we have to lie." Ladybug frowning hums in agreement. But at the same time, they both turn to each other and say happily "But we know we can trust each other!" finishing with a pound-it! IT'S JUST SO BEAUTIFUL AND MY HEART IS HAPPY After Truth, where Luka and Marinette were so sad and having a hard time, I really needed such an episode with such good Ladynoir! It really looks like the story is going in a really good direction, in my opinion. x3

#ml #miraculous ladybug #miraculous tales of ladybug and chat noir #ml season 4 spoilers #ml spoilers season 4 #ml spoilers #lies spoilers #adrien agreste #ladynoir #ladybug #chat noir #it took me HOURS to write this up so sorry it's late #if I could only pick one ship to ship in the entire show #it'd be ladynoir #if you couldn't tell

[octupus-on-the-moon]

I had a vision.

The clones + battleship

It would be hilarious. Specially with the Bad Batch.

Like Echo, Tech and Dogma would be super serious gamers. Always the first to sit on the table and strictly following the rules. Tech would rely on calculation and previous games with his oponent. While Dogma and Echo rely more on their instincts and experience of the game.

Fives, Hunter, Boost and Boil would be definitly the cheaters. Fives persuadates Tup to give him the coordinates, using secret handsigns. Hunter would use his sense to find out where the ships are positioned. Boil would straight out pay his opponent to let him win. And Boost would have his aces under the sleeve, maybe a fortunatly placed mirror in the room.

Hardcase and Wrecker would try to play, but soon realize it's not their game. Both are way to inpatient and it isn't fun if you constantly loose because of it. Soon enough they find another way to entertain themselves while the others are playing. Bets. Nothing too crazy, but enough to ad a little spice to every match.

Rex, Wolffe, Longshot and Crosshair would probably abstain themselves from playing, as long as no one challenges them. Then it's suddenly serious business and their very competitive.

Tup, Waxer, Comet and Oddball don't like playing, because, let's be honest, they are sweethearts, who hate see others loose, nevertheless they enjoy watching their vod having fun (or help them out cheating ;-)). Sometimes playing the narrators, if the game is particularly intense or just looking if everyone around has something to drink.

Cody, Jesse, Sinker and Kix would be part time players, if they are in the mood and not too tired, they will play, but they aren't as eager as some others of their vod, which makes them great losers.

Coming to the interesting part, about losers and winners.

Tech:

Losing: He would be confused. Why didn't his calculations work? Then he would realize that he lost due cheating and he would be complaining the whole time, how it can't be a win if it was CHEATING.

Winning: He would be happy but wouldn't say much about it, just silently analyze what his opponent did, how the ships where positions and how he could win faster.

Echo:

Losing: He would murder Fives for cheating. No questions asked. There is no way FIVES would win against him. Conclusion. He is a bad loser.

Winning: Like Tech he would be quite, because he already has a good reputation in this game, why brag about it? The inner satisfaction and defiance of his opponent is enough for him.

Dogma:

Losing: Oh boy, if he loses he would be mad, but he wouldn't say anything, just be really quite around his opponent or even ignoring him for the next days. Oh and if he finds out they cheated prepare to hear him recite the rules, he memorized since the first time they played, for the next whole week.

Winning: Come on it's Dogma. His superior i-told-you-i-would-win-look will follow his opponent the rest of the week, with 'subtly' verbal reminders of how he won.

Fives:

Losing: He would brush it of with his ego, but innerly he would be really frustrated, probably even mad at Tup for not putting enough effort or at whoever he lost to for being an ass.

Winning: He is a loud winner, bragging about it the whole time, giving no one a break about his superiority in this game. Secretly he would thank Tup for helping him out and invite him a drink. Beware if he won without cheating. Then he is 10x more annoying.

Hunter:

Losing: He would murmur some curses under his breath, to then proceed to sit in a corner to star his opponent down. Swearing to destroy his opponent the next time he plays against him.

Winning: Following the example of Tech and Echo, he would stand up shake hands with his opponent and silently sit somewhere to emanate his superiority through his sole posture and gaze. (And actually no one has come to the idea that he cheats every once in a while.)

Boost:

Losing: Like Hunter, Boost would be silent. With Hunter it's nothing new since he is a quiet personality, but with Boost? It would be just creepy. Meanwhile he would be swallowing his pride, trying not to lash out on every person who talks to him.

Winning: Boost will never let his vod ever forget how he won against them. NEVER. The first week would be always the worst. He would remind his opponent every step he takes of how he is so much better playing then him.

Boil:

Losing: Boil would be actually a good loser, only annoying his opponent to give him his credits back if he decided to cheat, otherwise he would wish them good luck for their next game.

Winning: Boil would, much like Fives, be a loud winner, cheering and teasing his opponent, specially if he played a honest game, maybe even get a little drunk in honor of his win.

Rex:

Losing: Rex would be a proud loser, because he really believes that the better player wins and it makes him happy seeing his little brothers win. Everyone thinks he doesn´t know about some of them cheating, but he actually DOES (It´s Rex, nothing can get under his radar), yet it doesn´t bother him since cheating needs a little talent too.

Winning: Rex wouldn´t show off after winning, nevertheless he has a book full of tally marks counting his wins. He also would console his opponent with some honest words.

Wolffe:

Losing: My boy, I think he would be a bad looser, since he has a pretty abitious personality. He would request a rematch till he wins (it doesn´t matter if he sits there til 3am) and then fall back and enjoy the evening.

Winning: Wolffe would not brag about his win, but he would totally use it in a argument to establish dominance. Nontheless he would invite his opponent to a drink, if he sees that they didn´t take their defeat well.

Longshot:

Losing: He would be quite easy with a loss, but he would definitely, compete with his opponent in other things, that have like nothing to do with the game, just to make sure that he still is the better one.

Winning: Would be a quietly loud winner, following the example of Boost, just remembering his opponent that he won against him and that his strategy is so much superior than his.

Crosshair:

Losing: If Crosshair looses, the game suddendly looses it´s value too it´s-just-a-stupid-game-i´m-better-than-that. Deep inside him he does care, so the next time they play he makes sure to win against his opponent.

Winning: If he isn´t seeking out revenge for an earlier lost game, Crosshair usually disappears fast from the scene, to avoid getting challenged into another match he might loose.

Cody:

Losing: Cody has almost the same mentality as Rex. The best player wins. That's it. And if the one cheated, well he needs to life with the guilt then.

Winning: On an emotional level, Cody loves winning. He often finds himself frustrated over battle plans and sheer impossible missions, a little satisfaction once in awhile, because he won a stupid game against one of his vod is the perfect cure.

Jesse:

Losing: Jesse is a good looser, mostly because his brothers don't dare to tease him if he does. They are pretty respectful and wish him good luck for the next match, otherwise it would end up with Jesse flipping the board and attempted commit of murder.

Winning: Jesse is a rare winner. He can get loud if he is drunk or if he won against one of his closer brothers and he can be silent if he won against someone he doesn't know that much or someone he respects a lot.

Sinker:

Losing: He takes his loss with humour, any stupid comment his vod has, Sinker has the perfect sassy comeback on standby. It's just a game right?

Winning: Sinker is the only one who really, really doesn't not care an inch about winning. It's just some good strategy and a bit of luck.

What Sinker actually likes from the game is that he gets to do something fun with his vod, outside of their cruel war reality.

Kix

Losing: As I said, Kix is not an ambitious player, which makes him a good loser, what he doesn't like is the teasing comments of his vod, the win itself is not important, but what his brothers have to say about him definitely is.

Winning: Even though he isn't fond of the game, he does like winning and gathering attention of his brother by it. Kix really enjoys it, without being an arrogant ass.

I hope i didn't forget any and that I got them right. I just realized how many there are and how little we know (I just realized that I know almost nothing about the 212th), but I covered a lot of them.

And yes I love playing battle ship, since i was a kid, it was basically our game in primary school, apart from Star Wars quartet, which was awesome too. (And yes we played till high school, same people, same games)

#shit I forgot a few #The whole Fox squad and I think Warthog #goddammit I'll make a second part #tcw #the clone wars #star wars #clone troopers #wolffe #captain rex #commander cody #501st #212th #104th

[nightshade-minho]

-Blue Book- (6)

Warnings: suggestiveness, future smut

Word Count: 2.4k

Chan knows what happiness is. He's felt it before in mild amounts- like the time when he was 7 and his dad bought him that toy truck he'd been wanting, or when he ate his favorite food.

As the years went by though, he found it harder and harder to feel even an ounce of that elusive emotion. It wasn't like he was a particularly sad person, either. He was just...existing.

Which is why he found you so intriguing. He watched as you rambled away between sips of your boba, accentuating your words with wild gestures. It was cute, how passionate you were about art and how happy you got when you talked about it. Chan loved making his music too-it was a welcome distraction from his hectic life. He never found himself feeling this level of enthusiasm, though.

"And yeah. That's why I think Bernini is objectively better than Michelangelo."

He smiled, nodding, though he hadn’t really paid attention to what you had been rambling about. God, he couldn't help but be fascinated by you.

This was bad. He couldn't lie to himself anymore- he was definitely starting to feel things for you that went beyond mere intrigue. It was easy to pretend he didn't like you when you weren't around...But when you were right in front of him, Chan found himself hating the way he wanted to spend more and more time with you. 

Suddenly, the door to the cafe opened. You looked up when you heard the tinkling bells, a frown growing on your face as you watched Minho walk in with Miyoung right behind him. 

You sat up immediately, glancing at your watch and shooting a quick, apologetic smile to Chan. “Uh, I just remembered I have somewhere to be, so-”

Too late. Minho smirked as he walked over to your table.

“Chan, thought you’d be here. Can we talk?”

Chan’s eyebrows knitted as he slowly looked away from you. “Okay, I guess.” He stood up, following Minho as the two boys walked out. You looked up at Miyoung, who offered you a shy, genuine smile before sitting in Chan’s spot.

“Hey, Y/n. How are you?”

“Hey. I’m good. You?” You said slowly, slightly cautious. Miyoung was one of those girls who hadn’t been particularly mean, but it wasn’t like she’d gone out of her way to befriend you either. 

“I’m alright...” She smiled again, trailing off a little awkwardly.

Her smile seemed genuine enough, but would she have smiled at you the same if you weren’t with Chan? Probably not, You noted with slight bitterness, sighing under your breath.

“Do you want some?” You spoke up, gesturing to the untouched cheesecake in front of you, tilting your head.

She shook her head, the same smile fixed on her face. “Nah, I’m on a diet. Thanks, though.” She opened her mouth, looking like she wanted to say something else, closing it and fiddling with her fork.

Awkward silence.

“I...” Miyoung looked at the fork in front of her, avoiding eye contact. “Are you happy?”

“Hap...py?” You questioned, a little confused.

“With Chan. Are you happy?”

“Oh..well yeah, I guess.” You frowned. “Um...we’re not actually dating yet, you know that, right?”

“You’re not?” Her eyes widened a little. “Oh...the way he acts around you, I thought...” She shook her head, sitting up straighter. “Anyway, I’m sure he’ll make it official soon.”

“Hmm.” You stared at the girl, her expression a little sad as she looked up, staring out the window. You tilted your head, following her gaze to Minho and Chan, who seemed to be having a conversation.

You looked back at her. “Why’d you ask that question? Are you not happy with Minho?”

“Wha- no, I am! I just... ” She paused. “Forget it. Hey...you want to come with me to the mall later?”

You raised an eyebrow. A week ago you had no friends, and now some of the most popular people at school were lining up to spend time with you. Huh.

“Sure.”

***

“Why do you want to talk? What’s up?”

Minho rolled his eyes. “Nothing much, really.”

Chan frowned. “Why’d you take me out here, then? I’ve got to get back to Y/n-”

Minho narrowed his eyes, leaning against the wall. “Chill, dude. She’s with Miyoung. She’s not going to die if you leave her alone for a few seconds. Why do you care, anyway?”

“What are you talking about?”

Minho pressed his lips together, observing the uneasy expression on Chan’s face. 

“...Whatever. Just know prom’s in a few weeks, and Miyoung’s whipped for me.” He smirked. “You better get that book fast~” He turned around, walking back towards the cafe door.

Chan watched him leave, fists clenching as he watched Minho go up to the table, greeting Miyoung and steadily ignoring you. He watched the slightly hurt expression on your face uncomfortably. He felt so much anger, all of it directed at Minho...and some of it at himself.

***

Miyoung quickly put a smile on her face as Minho entered, standing up as he slunk a hand around her waist. 

“Hey, baby.” He smiled down at her. “Let’s go, my parents aren’t home~”

“Oh...actually, Minho, I kind of made plans with Y/n.” The boy frowned at that, glancing at you. He opened his mouth to protest, interrupted by her.

“Um, we were planning to go to the mall, but you can come too! And so can Chan.” She said, smiling sweetly up at him and running a finger up his chest. “Please? I’ll make it up to you later...” She winked.

“Fine.” He gritted his teeth, looking up as Chan entered, placing a hand on your shoulder. 

“But we’re going in my car.”

***

Miyoung was a sweetheart, really. She just wasn’t the kind of girl you’d usually befriend- but someone was better than no one, right?

She ran her eyes over the jewelry on the shelves, humming under her breath. “Hm, I’m not sure which necklace would match my belt...what color is your prom dress?”

“Oh...I haven’t exactly bought one yet.”

She looked at you, her eyes widening in shock. “What? Prom is two weeks away!”

“Yeah, I know. I might just wear one of my mom’s old dresses.” You shrugged, looking at the brooch Miyoung was holding. “Ooh, that one’s nice.”

Miyoung shook her head incredulously, putting the brooch down and grabbing your wrist. “Come on. I’ll help you find a dress, just follow me.”

You groaned but let her pull you along, deciding to entertain her for the time being. After all, she was your only female friend in years, and you didn't want to lose this yet.

***

People passing by the two boys sitting at the table and sharing their fries would probably think they were friends. Two dudes, hanging out and enjoying a fun guy's night. If only they knew.

Minho slipped another fry into his mouth as he tilted his head. "So you're sure you're going to get the book within the next few days?"

"Um, yeah. I know she trusts me. We've gotten really close."

"Yeah...I can tell." Minho raised an eyebrow, swirling his next victim in the small tub of ketchup.

Chan frowned as he took in Minho's expression. "What's up with that tone?"

"Don't you think you're getting a little too close to Y/n? You could easily steal that book if you wanted to, you spend every day with her now and I'm sure she's left her bag unguarded around you." He smirked. "Part of me wonders if you actually want her around. If you're dragging this out on purpose."

Chan turned red, the implications of what Minho was saying making him swear internally. "Wh- what are you talking about? I only hang out with her cause you made that bet. Or I wouldn't have looked twice at her." He said firmly, almost like he was trying to convince himself.

Minho shrugged, devouring yet another fry as Chan's mind started racing, the familiar feeling of confusion rising up again.

***

"We shouldn't keep Chan and Minho waiting." You groaned, Miyoung choosing to ignore your pleas as she tossed yet another dress at you.

"Shh, they'll be fine. They're at the food court, and you know boys and their relationship with food of any kind. I assure you, they're not missing us. Now come on, I just know you'll look good in green." She smiled.

You sighed, tiredly clutching the dress as you went back into the changing room for the nth time. For the last half hour, you'd repeatedly tried on dresses to the point where you were ready to collapse from exhaustion. However, the excitement Miyoung was radiating made you want to please her...and it was kind of nice, the way she oohed and aahed each time you changed into a different dress. Was this what it's like to have a friend?

You stared at your reflection in the mirror once you managed to get the dress on, your eyes widening. Wow.

The silk was dark green, hugging your waist perfectly. The cut of the dress flattered your body like it was made for you. It was the perfect dress. You fell in love with it the more you turned around, assessing your reflection from every angle.

Slowly, biting your lip, you checked the price tag hanging off it. You sighed. Just as you thought.

You knew your mom would never be able to afford a dress this expensive. A sudden rush of guilt ran through you as you dropped the tag, running a hand through your hair as you moved to take the dress off.

For a minute, your hand paused on the zipper, your eyes travelling back to your reflection. For a moment, you let yourself imagine attending prom wearing this beautiful dress.

An image of you and Chan, slow dancing under the dimmed gym lights settled itself in your brain. You let a small, dreamy smile take over your face as you removed the dress. Even if you'd be wearing your mom's old floral dress, at least the Chan part of your fantasy would remain true.

***

You hadn't had this much fun in ages. So this was what it was like to hang out with friends. You wished you'd met Chan and Miyoung earlier.

The only problem? Minho. Your worst nightmare, in the form of a handsome high school boy with a devilish smirk and a weird, unprovoked hatred towards you. The fact that you were now left alone with him was probably the only downside to an otherwise wonderful day.

Miyoung had dashed into a shop, saying she'd be out in a second, and soon after Chan had dipped saying he had to go withdraw some money at the ATM. By pure, rotten luck, you somehow winded up sitting next to Minho on the mall bench as the two of you waited for your partners to come back.

You stared ahead of you, determined not to look at the boy sitting next to you. He'd always ignored you, treated you like you were the dirt on his shoe. You weren't going to give him the satisfaction of knowing you hated him as much as he hated you.

After a few minutes, Minho smirked, glancing over at you. "Why do you look so worried? Afraid your boyfriend's gone to cheat on you?" He asked, his tone dripping with fake sweetness.

You turned to look at him, glaring. God, this dude was so annoying.

"What the fuck is wrong with you?"

Minho's eyebrow raised slightly, as he hadn't really expected you to reply. His expression faltered for a moment before his usual sneer took over his face once more.

"There isn't anything wrong with me, darling." He said, looking up and eyeing a lady in a crop top. You followed his gaze and let out a snort.

"What an asshole."

"Excuse me?"

You turned to him, anger taking over your entire being again.

"Miyoung's a sweet girl. She deserves a lot better than a lying dickhead who can't even keep his eyes to himself." You scoffed. "You should stop using her like this."

Minho's mouth opened slightly, the slight shock giving way to amusement as he grinned.

"I'm using her?" He pouted. "Hm. I guess that is wrong...I should probably take lessons from your boyfriend, yeah? Since he's so perfect."

"What do you mean?" You narrowed your eyes, slight discomfort settling in you as the man shifted closer to you on the bench.

"Just saying." He shrugged. "Channie isn't who you think he is." Leaning in, you shuddered as you felt his lips graze your ear. "I'd watch my back if I were you, sweetheart~"

He quickly drew back as he noticed Miyoung emerge from the shop, expression neutral as he stood up to go over to his girlfriend.

What was he talking about?

***

"Hey, you okay? You seem...out of it." Chan said gently, glancing at you from the corner of his eyes as he drummed his fingers on the steering wheel.

"Oh? What- no, I'm fine." You nodded, carefully staring at your lap. Chan turned to look at you, frowning.

"You sure?"

"Uh huh." You said slowly, staring out the window as Chan drove you home. There was silence in the car, and Chan hated it. The atmosphere was thick with unspoken tension. He wanted to do something about it, but you looked so closed off and guarded ever since he got back from the ATM.

"You can...you can always talk to me, you know." He said gently, as he stopped the car in front of your house.

"I know." You mumbled, looking up at him. "I'm sorry. Thank you for today, it was fun. See you tomorrow?"

"I wake up at 5 am every day for you, now." He whined, glad your smile was back on your face. "You know, going to school that early should be a crime."

You giggled as you got out of his car, closing the door and going over to his side.

"Well then, arrest me, officer~"

Chan blushed slightly, gripping the wheel. "Bye, Y/n." He laughed, as you blew a kiss and turned to enter your house.

Chan let out a sigh under his breath. He realized slowly that for the entirety of the day, he hadn't felt all that much jealousy. He'd been too focused on you to even notice Minho's desperate attempts to induce envy in him. And after Minho's sly accusation, Chan didn't know what to believe. Could it be...

This was bad. This was really bad.

#chan angst #chan fluff #chan smut #minho angst #lee know angst #chan x reader #bang chan fluff #bang chan smut #bang chan angst #chris smut #chris fluff #chris angst #chris series

[nine-mp3]

- a one-shot inspired by OnlyOneOf’s Love going back to black hair recently

- vampire!love / jisung

- reader!witch/warlock

- word count: 1755

- warnings: blood mention, narrator only curses once, other than that it is very pg-13 

Lifting up the hatch to the roof of the cabin, you carefully move your way up to the surface. The cool night air of the forest is inviting; promising for days when you couldn't sleep, too many thoughts in mind. You walked across the ceramic tiles, careful not to slip. In one of your hands was a can of Coca-Cola, a favorite drink of the mortals in the world. And it so happened to be the same for yourself though you were a witch/warlock. As for your other hand, you held a medium-sized juice pouch with dark red liquid contained inside; it was made of primarily cranberry juice and other herbs, a known supplement for blood that only witches or warlocks can make. A very popular consumable in the supernatural market. 

You sat down at the other end of the roof, a few feet away from the trap door, and set down the juice pouch, while opening the coke. As you take a sip, the carbonation hits your nose strongly, making you wrinkle your nose for a moment. A black and tawny cat, Chestnut, leapt up from the trap door. She walks over, joining you, brushing against your arms. Though it seemed like the cat was accompanying you, she in reality was waiting for someone else. But you give the cat what she wants anyways; attention, rubbing her head generously.

It wasn't long till said person came, as they had promised to do so the other day. You barely had enough time to blink when someone appeared besides you without any warning. Most people would be shocked, or perhaps fallen off the roof. And that is speaking from personal experience, from when you first befriended Jisung. 

You eventually got used to it; being friends with a vampire simply just came with these surprise appearances. It’s one of the lesser terrifying things in the world when you think about it, considering the life you live as one kind of supernatural being as well.

Chestnut leaps out of your arms without another thought and into his, purring endlessly into his chest. Jisung laughs, happy to greet an animal who wasn't afraid of him. Hands running through fur, he hugs the cat with the same amount of affection. 

"You made it. And on time," you said, a smile reaching your face upon seeing him. 

"Did you think I wouldn't show up?" Jisung asked, his dark crimson eyes moving away from the cat to look at you. 

He idly played with Chestnut's paws as the cat rested on his lap now; it was quite scary to see a cat be in the hands of a vampire literally, wary of Jisung's long dark nails. But over time, you came to know that he was one of the gentler vampires in the world. And cats knew better than all of us; Chestnut wouldn't approach Jisung if she felt he was dangerous. 

"No. It's not an easy travel route to here, I mean," you said, setting down your can of coke to poke the straw into the juice pouch you had reserved for him.

He scooted over closer and was mindful not to jostle the cat in his lap as he did. Jisung smiled giddly, teeth and fangs showing, as if he was a child receiving sweets, and took the juice pouch from your hands to take a sip. You watched as his image changed once he took a generous glup and swallowed; he ran a hand through his black locks of hair, before leaning back against his arms. The light from the night stars made his pale skin glisten, even more than usual. It's hard not to look at him. 

And here's the confession; you thought Jisung is very beautiful. Vampires just came with good looks. He's not the first vampire you've met in your life either. Safe to say most of them are assholes and only have one goal in mind: to survive. As for him, he is both beautiful inside and outside; the supernatural transformation did not take away his ability to be kind or blurr the meaning of it. You assumed it took a great amount of willpower to do such a thing. Comparing the life of a mortal to a vampire, it was drastically different.

"Worried that I can't handle a couple of forest demons?" Jisung asked then, elbowing me playfully. 

"I guess it's something like that... anyways, do you know what day it is?" you responded.

"March 20th? Or is it one of your witchy / warlocky holidays?"

"...Witchy / warlocky holidays? Name one."

"Halloween."

"Huh? That one applies to all supernatural creatures-"

Jisung snickered, seeming to enjoy the confusion on your face. You knew he was joking then and shoved him to the side as hard as you could with your shoulder. Unfortunately, vampires have insane super strength in this world also; your physical shove did nothing to him. It might've hurt just your own shoulder in the end. The vampire, unmoving, laughs even harder.

"God, you're annoying. I'll send you across the field with a fireball if you don't shut up," you said, folding your arms and rolling your eyes in irritation.

"You like me too much to do that," Jisung responded, his smile turning into a knowing one.

In moments like these, when he was making fun of you, it was easier not to look at him out of spite. Jisung teased you relentlessly, but it was part of the friendship. You did the same back, except this moment was particularly different. The meaning of this day. The vampire notices your demeanor, the seriousness, and stops laughing.

“Aw, come on...I know what day it is, y/n. March 20th, the Spring Solstice. The anniversary of the day we first met," he said now. "I remember and...it's not something I would forget."

You didn't immediately look at Jisung again when he said that. It was because no one had ever said anything like that to you, the level of genuineness you felt from his words; it caught you off guard. Warmth had crept up on your face, paired off with the sudden acceleration of your heart. This wasn't something you can hide from a vampire though, it was more out of embarrassment to not look at him now. Out of the corner of your eyes, you saw Jisung's face become written with surprise.

It was probably also good to note that a witch’s /warlock's blood was particularly toxic to vampires, which was another reason why it wasn't hard to become friends with him in the first place; you didn't have to worry about him thinking of you as a midnight snack. 

There was a good moment of silence as you attempted to muster the courage to find a way to respond to that and of course, explain why in the world you were reacting this way. You were trying to figure out for the longest time about how you truly felt about Jisung; if you were confusing feelings of friendship for...something else. The last thing you wanted to do was to ruin it all. 

This had happened several times and before Jisung could ask any questions, you teleported away from him. And you were about to do that again. He seemed to have anticipated the move and grabbed your hands, a tight grasp, preventing you from casting the spell. This forced you to look at him, though mainly out of your own surprise. There was a concern on his face now instead, and you couldn't miss the dilation of his pupils either; this made you know, whatever you were feeling, Jisung mutually felt the same. You felt stupid for not seeing it sooner; it made sense since you did literally disappear every moment before you could see his reaction every single time. But you were only scared. 

“Sorry,” you blurted out, breaking the heavy silence. “I’ve just been confused and I don’t know what this all means and you’re like my best friend and I don’t want to lose you and you know how complicated it would be for beings like us and-”

Jisung removed one of his hands to cover your mouth, stopping you from talking. 

“Okay. Now when I remove my hand you’re going to breathe. Sound good?”

You nodded, complying with his words. When he takes his hand from over your mouth, you inhale and exhale as directed. Looking back over to Jisung, he has an assuring smile on his face. He held both your hands in his again, his thumbs gently stroking in comfort. You noted that Chestnut the cat had gone from his lap; she must’ve thought you two needed to work something out when sensing tension from you and fled. It was one less thing to worry about. 

“So, all of that...was the reason why you kept running away?” he asked. 

“Yes. It was,” you admitted, the feeling of embarrassment returning. 

Jisung laughed lightly and you saw it now, his own shyness visible. 

“It’s hard to find the words...but I honestly wondered if you’d ever really think of me that way. I know that I have this irresistible beauty-”

You rolled your eyes for the second time today at that statement, almost wanting to retract your hands, yet he again prevented you from leaving until he finished his sentence. 

“- let me finish! But we both know it’s the vampire charm, blah, blah. Anyways, what I’m really trying to say is that I do have the same feelings- I mean at least what I sense your heart is telling me and all your stinky blood rushing around like that in your veins. Since day one, if you really want this to get anymore cliche...a vampire falling for a witch/warlock, vice versa...happens once in a blue moon, doesn’t it?”

Of course, Jisung still manages to joke while making a confession out of awkwardness. Yet you couldn’t be any more happier though. You pulled your hands away from his to wrap your arms around his shoulders for a tight hug, not minding how cold he was. There was no hesitation from Jisung either, his own arms immediately moving to loop around your frame, enjoying the warmth that emitted from your body, tucking his head against yours. The two of you spent a while like that, enjoying each other’s presence, before beginning to talk again about memories, addressing the moments where you both were dodgy; overall, catching up with each other’s feelings as the night continued on.

#onlyoneof #onlyoneof love #onlyoneof jisung #kpop #kpop fanfic #fantasy au #fanfiction #vampire #witch #warlock #fanfic #kpop scenarios #park jisung #park love #nine #mill #junji #yoojung #rie #kyubin

[gascon-en-exil]

A Game of Thrones 10th Anniversary Season Ranking: Part 2

Link to Part 1

Time for the bottom half of the list. The four seasons here will surprise no one, but the order might.

#5 Season 6

You can tell what I most what to talk about here...but there's an order to these things.

S6 actually has a bunch of great ideas, but they drown beneath the most slapdash plotting and character work the show has seen yet in order to set the stage for the narrower conflicts of the last two seasons. It's notorious for bringing back characters who haven't been seen in a season or longer only to kill them off (Balon Greyjoy, Osha, Hodor, the Blackfish, Rickon, Walder Frey) or awkwardly graft them back into the main plot (Sandor Clegane, Bran). There are plot threads that ought to be compelling but are too rushed in execution, like the siege of Riverrun, Littlefinger's hand in the Battle of the Bastards, or Daenerys's time back among the Dothraki and then finally getting the hell out of Meereen. Arya hits on the only interesting part of her two-season sojourn in Braavos - a stage play, of all things - only for it to stumble at the end with a disappointing offscreen death and some incomprehensible philosophy ahead of the start of her murder tour of Westeros. There's also so much cutting off the branches, enough to be conspicuous; the final shot of Daenerys leading an armada of about half the remaining cast she assembled partially offscreen says that better than anything else. Well, not anything....

Highlight: Without exaggeration, the opening of S6E10 is easily my favorite sequence in all of GoT. The staging, the music, the mounting suspense even as it becomes increasingly obvious what's about to happen, the twisted religious references particularly in Cersei's mock confession to Unella, Tommen throwing himself out a window because he can't deal with the reality of how terrible his mother is, how Cersei gives absolutely no fucks whatsoever about murdering hundreds of people at once in a calculated act of vengeance largely prompted by her own poorly thought out actions - I love it all. It's the single most masterfully-executed act of villainy in the whole show - Daenerys torching King's Landing probably has a higher body count, but the presentation there is all muddled - and if I had any doubts about Cersei being my favorite multi-season major character they were silenced in this moment. The explosion of the Sept doesn't sit perfectly with me, because I liked the Tyrells and because of what I said about deaths like theirs and Renly's in the previous post under S2, but I think that unease only cements the strength of this sequence. It's an overused phrase in fandom these days, but GoT at its best is all about moral greyness that gives its audience room for multilayered reactions. Cersei nuking the Sept and making herself the sole power in King's Landing, which in a sense is just a more overt example of the kind of character/plot consolidation elsewhere represented by Daenerys's armada, is one of those events that's impossible to approach from a single angle if you care about any of the characters involved. And hey, it's not in the books (yet, presumably), so unlike Ned's death or the Red Wedding the GoT showrunners can take the credit for realizing this one.

Favorite death: Even leaving aside the Sept and related deaths there's a lot of good ones to choose from in S6. Ramsey is cathartic but too gory for me, Osha's was a clever callback but a little delayed, it's hard to pin down specific deaths when Daenerys incinerates the khals, and Arya only gets half credit for Walder Frey and his sons when she saves the rest of the house for the opening of S7. I'm thinking Hodor, not so much because I enjoy his character or the manner of his death but because it's a clever bit of playing with language (that must have been hell to render in other languages for dubbing) wrapped up in some entertainingly murky consent issues and some closed time loop weirdness. It's all very...extra? Is that the word for it?

Least favorite death: Offscreen deaths continue to be mostly letdowns, in this case Blackfish and the Waif. Way to botch the ending of Arya's already near-pointless Braavos arc, guys. Speaking of Arya, this spot goes to Lady Crane, whom the Waif somehow kills with a stool or something. It's a dumb way to send off an entertaining minor character.

#6 Season 8

I swear that I'm not putting S8 this high solely because of Jonmund kind of sort of happening. I've never been very interested in either of them and the sex would be far too bear-on-otter to suit my pornographic preferences, but even so the choice to close out the series with them is hilarious.

I really don't need to elaborate on why S8 is down here; everyone who's ever watched the show has done as much in the nearly two years since it wrapped up. I do however need to explain why I've ranked not one but two seasons below it. My biggest argument here is that I don't believe it's fair to critique S8 for problems it inherited from earlier seasons. A non-comprehensive list:

Mad Queen Daenerys: unevenly built up beginning from S1 and continuing in some form through every following season

The questionable racial optics of Dany's army: also seeded as early as S1 and solidified by S3 with the Slaver's Bay arc

Cersei only succeeding because she makes stupid decisions and then lucks out until she doesn't: apparent from S1, directly lampshaded by Tywin in S3, fully on display with the Faith Militant arc of S5-6

Jaime not getting a redemption arc or falling in love with Brienne: evident with his repeated returns to Cersei throughout the show as one of the most consistent elements of his character, particularly in S4 and during the siege of Riverrun in S6

Tyrion grabbing the idiot ball/becoming a flat audience surrogate mouthpiece: started in S5 around the time the showrunners ran out of book material for him and wanted to make him more of a PoV character and his arc less of a downward spiral, although I've seen arguments that changes from the books involving his Tysha story and Shae set him on this trajectory even earlier

The hardening of Sansa's character: began in earnest in S4 and never let up from there

The strange ordering of antagonists: set down by S7's equally strange plot structure - the Night King had to come first with that setup

CleganeBowl and the dumber twists: from what I've heard the whole thing of writing around fans on the internet guessing plot twists started pretty much when the book content ended, so S5-6 maybe?

Yes, there's plenty to criticize about S8 on its own merits...but just as much that was merely the writers doing what they could at that point with deeply flawed material.

Highlight: This may sound cheesy, but the better parts of S8 are almost all the cinematic ones, whether that's E2 being a bottle episode with tons of poignant character send-offs before the big battle, a handful of deaths with actual satisfying weight like Jorah's and Theon's, and an epilogue that incorporates both closure for individuals and the broader uncertainty of messy socio-political systems that GoT has always been known for before working its way back to the Starks at the very end for some tidy bookending. Even imperfect moments like the Lannister twins' death and the resolution of Sansa's character felt weighty and appropriate based on what had come before.

Favorite death: Forget about the audio commentary attempting to flatten Cersei's character; Cersei and Jaime Lannister have an excellent end. Cersei especially, as the scenes of her stumbling her way down into the catacombs as the Red Keep crashes down around her really show off how her world is abruptly falling apart and how she retreats into her own self-interest at the end in spite of her demise being at least partially of her own doing. There's some stupid moments associated with these scenes, like Jaime dueling Euron to the death and CleganeBowl, but I can excuse those when the twins end up dying exactly where you'd expect them to: in each other's arms, in a ruined monument to their family's grand ambitions that, like Casterly Rock itself, was taken from another family.

Least favorite death: Quite a few dumb ones in S8 have become forever infamous. Missandei sticks out, and for me Varys too just as much because of how the writing pushes him to do the dumbest thing he could possibly do purely for the sake of killing him off ten minutes into the penultimate episode. But no one belongs here more than Daenerys Targaryen, killed at the height of a rushed and uncertain villain reveal by a man who takes advantage of their romantic history (who is also her family, because Targaryens) to stab her in a moment of vulnerability - pretty much only because another man tells him that Daenerys is the final boss. Narratively speaking that might be the case, but even so this is the end result of multiple seasons of middling-to-bad buildup. Not even Drogon burning the symbolism can salvage that. Also Fire Emblem: Three Houses did this scene and did it better.

#7 Season 5

...Yeah, we're going to have to go there.

Sansa's rape is not a plot point that personally touches me much. It's terribly framed in the moment and the followup in later seasons is inconsistent at best, but it's not a kind of trauma I can relate to. On the other hand, in the very same episode Loras is tried and imprisoned for homosexuality, and Margery faces the same punishment for lying for her brother. That hits much closer to home, not just for the homophobia but also for the culture war undertones of the not!French Tyrells persecuted by a not!Anglo fanatic who later reveals himself to be the in-universe equivalent of a Protestant. The trial is just one part of Cersei's shortsighted scheming, just as Sansa being married off to Ramsey is part of Littlefinger's, and both of them get their comeuppance in the end...but it's unsettling all the same. I especially hate what the Faith Militant arc does to King's Landing in S5, swiftly converting it from my favorite setting in GoT to a tense theocratic nightmare that only remains interesting to me because Cersei is consistently awesome. What's more, pretty much everything about S5 that isn't viscerally uncomfortable is dragged out and dull instead: the Dorne arc, Daenerys's second season in Meereen, Arya in Braavos, Stannis and co. at Castle Black. The most any of these storylines can hope for is some kind of bombastic finale, and while several of them deliver it's not enough to make up for what comes before, or how disappointing everything here builds from S4. S4 has Oberyn, S5 has the Sand Snakes - I think that sums up the contrast well.

Highlight: S5 does get stronger near the end. As much as his character annoys me I did like the High Sparrow revealing his pseudo-Protestant bent to Cersei just before he imprisons her, and there's a cathartic rawness to Cersei's walk of atonement where you can both feel her pain and humiliation and understand that she's getting exactly what she deserves (and this is what leads into the climax of S6, so it deserves points just for that). The swiftness of Stannis's fall renders his death and that of his family a bit hollow, but it's brutal and final and fittingly ignominious for a character with such grand ambitions but so little relevance to the larger story. The fighting pits of Meereen sequence is cinematic if nothing else, and even the resolution to the Dorne arc salvages the whole thing a tiny bit by playing into the retributive cycles of vengeance idea (and Myrcella knows about the twincest and doesn't care, aww - no idea why that stuck with me, but it's cute all the same). Oh, and Hardhome...it's alright. Not great, not crap, but alright.

Favorite death: I don't know why, but Theon tossing Myranda to her death is always funny to me. Maybe because it's so unexpected?

Least favorite death: Arya's execution of Meryn Trant is meant to be another one of the season's big finale moments, but the scene is graphic and goes on forever and I can't help but be grossed out. This is different from, say, Shireen's death, which is supposed to be painful to witness.

#8 Season 7

I can't tell if S7's low ranking is as self-explanatory as S8's or not. At least one recent retrospective on GoT's ruined legacy I've come across outright asserts that S7 is judged less harshly in light of how bad S8 was. If it were not immediately obvious by where I've placed each of them, I don't share that opinion.

Because S7 is just a mess, and the drop-off in quality is so much more painful here than it is anywhere else in the series except maybe from S4 to S5 (and that's more about S4 being as good as it is). The pacing ramps up to uncomfortable levels to match the shortened seasons, the structure pivots awkwardly halfway through from Daenerys vs. Cersei to Jon/Dany caring about ice zombies, said pivot relies largely on characters (mostly Tyrion) making a series of catastrophically stupid tactical decisions, and very few of the smaller set pieces land with any real impact as the show's focus narrows to its endgame conflict. As with S6 there are still some good ideas, but they're botched in execution. The conflict between Sansa and Arya matches their characters, but the leadup to that conflict ending with Littlefinger's execution is missing some key steps. Daenerys's diverse armada pitted against Cersei weaponizing the xenophobia of the people of King's Landing could have been interesting, but there's little room to explore that when Cersei keeps winning only because Tyrion has such a firm grip on the idiot ball and when Euron gets so much screentime he barely warrants. Speaking of Tyrion's idiot ball, does anyone like the heist film-esque ice zombie retrieval plotline? Its stupidity is matched only by its utter futility, because Cersei isn't trustworthy and nobody seems to ever get that.

And how could I forget Sam's shit montage? Sums up S7 perfectly, really. To think that that is part of the only extended length of time the show ever spends in the Reach....

Highlight: A handful of character moments save this season from being irredeemable garbage. As you can guess from my screencap choice, Olenna's final scene is one of them, even if Highgarden itself is given insultingly short shrift. S7 also manages what I thought was previously impossible in that it makes me care somewhat about Ellaria Sand, courtesy of the awful death Cersei plans for her and her remaining daughter. The other Sand Snakes are killed with their own weapons, which shows off Euron's demented creativity if nothing else. I like the entertainingly twisted choice to cut the Jon/Dany sex scene with the reveal that they're related. And, uh...the Jonmund ship tease kind of makes the zombie retrieval team bearable? I'm really grasping at straws here.

Favorite death: It's more about her final dialogue with Jaime than her actual death, but again I'm going to have to highlight Olenna Tyrell here for lack of better options. She drops the bombshell about Joffrey that the audience figured out almost as soon as it happened but still, makes it plain what I've been saying about how Jaime's arc has never really been about redemption, and is just about the only person to ever call Cersei out for that whole mass murder thing. There's a reason "I want her to know it was me" became a meme format.

Least favorite death: There aren't any glaringly bad deaths in S7, just mediocre or unremarkable ones. I still think the decision to have Arya finish off House Frey in the season's opening rather than along with their father at the end of S6 was a strange one that doesn't add much of dramatic value.

#Game of Thrones #GoT

[angst-fairygodmother]

Sorry to bother you, but if you've got the time can I maybe get either Angst #1: "I can't do anything right" or Random #25: "It's 6 o'clock in the morning, you're not having vodka" with Klaus x Reader please? I feel like you could do something super cute with them, unless you don't want to. Whatever you're feeling.

A/N: Your prompts gave me a strong hurt/comfort feeling. So I just...stuck the knife in, wiggled it around a bunch, kicked the poor boy while he was down, and let the reader clean it up. Please enjoy. Word Count: 1941 Rating: M - self-hatred/negative thoughts/depression, alcohol mention, reference to past drug use, reference to PTSD, reference to death, spoilers for The Umbrella Academy season 1

A loud crash from the front of your apartment woke you with a start. Gripping the small but shocking heavy clock from your nightstand, you cautiously padded down the hall toward the noise. Absently, you thought about the fact that you had left a kitchen window open and hoped that whatever was making the sound was just a possum or other easily caught creature wandering in from the fire escape, rather than someone. Another thump caused your heart to race as you rounded the corner.

The figure in your kitchen screamed and you heard the thump of something heavy hitting the floor. With a groan, you flicked on the light and glared at your best friend, though you were reconsidering the title as you inspected the mess he had made by breaking in and rooting through your cabinets in the dark.

“What the fuck Klaus?” you said with a sigh.

“Oh! Y/N! You’re up!” his voice was strained and too loud for the hour, you could tell something was off.

“Yes. Funny that, what with the amount of noise you were making.”

“Sorry,” scrunched up his face. “I was trying to be quiet but…you know me.” He continued to nose around in your cabinets until he made a small noise of victory and pulled out what he was looking for.

“Yeah I do.” You saw the bottle in his hand and frowned. “Put that back.”

“I’m just going to have one little glass…”

You glanced down at the timepiece still in your hand before setting it on the counter.

“It's 6 o'clock in the morning, you're not having vodka.” You pulled the bottle out of his hand before he could protest.

“Pleeeeeease. I need it. I need something.” His whine seemed unusually desperate, even for him and you finally really looked at him. Quickly you recognized both a very different outfit than you had ever seen him in before, particularly the green army vest and new tattoo on his arm, and the tell-tale signs of withdrawal in every part of his body and behavior.

“Sobriety with no rehab?” you asked, incredulous.

“It’s a long story, and I’d rather not talk about it,” he sighed. “I just want to forget it and move on.”

“By going straight back to the bottle?”

“Yes,” he snatched at it and you held it just out of reach, placing your small dining table between the two of you to counteract his height advantage.

“No.”

He gave you his best pout and you almost surrendered before you caught yourself.

“How about instead, I make some breakfast and we talk?”

“I told you, I don’t want…” he trailed off, voice cracking at the end, and when you looked at him again his eyes were glassy and unfocused, not really present anymore. His whole body trembled. You suspected that he was being bombarded by ghosts, as tended to happen on his rare sober occasions, and felt guilty for giving him a hard time. You set the bottle aside and circled to stand in front of him.

“You okay there?” you asked, trying to keep your voice light. He remained silent and distant.

Gently, you cupped his face between your hands, trying to pull his focus to you. His hands came up to wrap around your wrists, shaking and frighteningly cold, the war between shoving you away and clinging to any connection he could get plain.

“Klaus?” you asked softly, tilting your head to one side. He didn’t seem to register your voice. “Klaus please talk to me…”

He opened his mouth as if to speak and then closed it again, his eyes now roving your face as if searching for something. Suddenly, he collapsed forward into a sob, leaning heavily on you as you wrapped your arms around his head and shoulders. You slowly guided the pair of you down into a sitting position, your back against the fridge and Klaus practically in your lap.

His behavior scared you. You had seen many wild mood swings from your best friend, usually on account of whatever drug he was using to dull his powers that week or the withdrawals of coming down off them, but you had never seen him like this before. Your heart ached at the pitiful noises he made, and you rocked him gently, humming a soft tune and trying your best to comfort him.

You weren’t sure how long you sat with him on your kitchen floor, staring at the jar of pasta sauce that he had dropped when you surprised him. Long enough that the light of dawn was spilling through the window, little puddles of light dancing around you. Long enough that your shoulders ached from your position, not that it mattered to you compared to his hurt. Long enough that you were surely late for work and your pajama top was stained with eyeliner and tears. Long enough that you wondered absently how he hadn’t run out of tears or breath yet.

Eventually, the body-wracking sobs softened to little hitches of breath and then, even later to silence. You continued to sit there, holding him close, shifting only enough to run soothing fingers through his hair.

“I can't do anything right,” he admitted, voice hoarse and muffled by the fact that his face was still pressed into your shoulder. “I’m sorry.”

“Woah, hey. Where is this coming from?” you asked, frowning, puzzled and concerned.

“I’m a giant screw up. Everything I touch, I ruin.”

“That’s not true, Klaus.” You tried leaned down and back, trying to get him to look at you. “Talk to me?”

What followed was a bewildering accounting of his last forty-eight hours, or ten months, depending on your perspective. He told you about how he had been kidnapped because he was too high to notice the assassins in the Academy trying to kill his family. He described the torture, voice trembling, in detail that made you sick and made your grip tighten on him as if you could retroactively protect him, how he’d caved and told the two about the biotech company that Five had been staking out.

“I’m the reason Diego’s girlfriend is dead,” he said sullenly. “I got her attention, made her come into the room trying to save me. And then when she did, I ran like a coward. Didn’t even warn her that there were two of them.”

You flinched. You had heard about Detective Patch, seen how broken Diego was over it. But she was a police officer, doing her job, and Klaus was hardly to blame for the fact that he had taken the opportunity to escape his torturers, or that she had gone to the motel without backup. Not that he would listen if you tried to tell him that, and he would probably clam up and not finish even though he clearly had more to say. So instead you stayed silent and let him carry on.

What he said next left you stunned, as he admitted to travelling back in time, to fighting in the Vietnam war and falling in love with a man called Dave. And then Dave had been shot during a battle and though he’d pressed his hands over the wound and called desperately for a medic, he’d failed to save him. And now he was back in the present having flashbacks to bombs going off around him in addition to the withdrawal and the ghosts everywhere. And he couldn’t even conjure Dave.

“One more thing I can’t do right.” He laughed bitterly. “Can’t get Dad either, no matter how many times Luther asks me too. Even the one useful thing I can do, I can’t get it right.”

He was silent for a moment, and you thought with relief that he might be done berating himself and you could speak. Unfortunately, as you gathered your thoughts and went to start, he continued, now talking about Five’s return and how he said the world was going to end.

“Five hopes that with the ‘full force of the academy’ we can stop it from happening, but I wouldn’t hold my breath. And before you ask why I’m not with my family then trying to help, it’s not like talking to ghosts is helpful here. So I just, bailed. Like I always do.”

At some point during the conversation, he had finally pulled away from your embrace and leaned beside you against the cold metal appliance. He looked over at you, eyes soft and full of an unfamiliar expression, before he cast them down to stare at his hands folded in his lap.

“Christ, I can’t even protect the one person I have left that matters,” he muttered, utterly defeated.

“Three days, huh?” you asked tentatively.

“Mhm. That’s what he said. Yesterday. So it’s actually probably closer to two.”

“Alright. Well, I’ve always wanted to see the Roman Coliseum. But that might take too long to get to, waste a whole day on air travel. We could…go to Vegas, blow all my savings on…hookers and slot machines…?”

“What are you doing?” He stared in confusion.

“Trying to make a plan for how to spend the last days of our lives?”

He cracked a small smile. “And you settled on slot machines and Vegas hookers?”

“Well I don’t know. I’ve never thought about…what I’d do if I knew I was going to die soon…I’d just, I want to spend the last few days with someone I love.” You shrugged. “But it got you to smile, so…I call it a win.”

He shook his head ruefully, warm expression widening. “Y/N, you are, amazing.”

You smiled back at him.

“For real though, you are not just a screw up, Klaus,” you said fiercely. “You are my best friend and you mean the world to me. And even if you’ve made mistakes, that doesn’t negate that you are so full of light, and so genuine even when you try to hide it. You see the best in everyone else, and the people that care, care about you because of everything you are, good and bad. I’m sure if this Dave were here, he’d say the same thing.”

“Yeah,” he sighed. “He probably would. You two are a lot alike actually.”

“I wish I could have met him then, and thanked him for keeping your sorry ass alive so you could come back to me.”

You both laughed. The room settled into a steady, comfortable silence, each of you enjoying the other’s presence and the moment of peace, sneaking glances when you thought the other wasn’t looking.

And then your eyes caught. On an instinct, you leaned almost imperceptibly closer.

“I wish you hadn’t told me yet that the world was ending,” you whispered. “Then I could do this without worrying that you’ll think it’s just because of that, and not the fact that I’ve been in love with you for a while now. There’s no time to do things properly.”

“What did you just say?”

Instead of answering, you pressed your lips to his softly. Stiffening for a moment, you thought he might reject you, but then he relaxed into it, kissing you back with increasing passion and hunger. Gently he cradled your head and laid you back onto the floor, never once breaking contact with your lips.

“Y/N,” he sighed, leaning back to give you both a moment of air. “You’re right. There’s no time to do this properly. There’s no time for anything.”

You smiled up at him, bright and loving. “We don’t need properly, we just need each other.”

He laughed and leaned down to capture your lips quickly. “Right again.”

#ending on a happy not #hurt/comfort #Klaus Hargreeves x reader #Klaus Hargreeves #reader insert #The Umbrella Academy #The Umbrella Academy fic #season 1 spoilers #TUA #anonymous messages #requested #I'm not crying you're crying #I made myself sad

[itoshit]

Sighting while looking at the mess I've made, I pick up the knife to cut the ropes off your wrists and ankles.

Now on my knees I look at you.

I wasn't feeling particularly guilty but I felt bad.

'Am sorry for my men. Bonten isn't supposed to behave like this.'

Your eyes were throwing daggers at me and I could understand the why. But fuck I was sick.

Why did I want to fuck you here on the spot?

'I'm gonna pick you up and bring you somewhere else to treat your wounds. Don't fight, it won't get you anywhere.'

Holding you close to me I left the room sticking of blood and joined my office.

Not the same where we fucked last time, no. The office in Bonten's hideout.

Putting you on the leather sofa I called the doctor. I'd no idea how to take care of injured people anyway.

'Your wounds are not very deep. They won't leave scars, I just need to sew one up and you'll be good.'

'Thank you'

Sitting in front of you two I was watching you carefully.

'Vee. I really want to explain the whys and the hows but I prefer waiting for our guest. She'll tell you everything herself. She's not supposed to come too late anyway'

'Fuck you'

'Look. I've never pretended to be the good guy. Before even having sex with me you knew who I was. You saw my gun. I warned you about your friend and you still decided to not listen. Resulting in my executives and I doubting your innocence. Our methods are not clean, and my hands are tainted with blood. But that didn't prevent you from begging me for more.'

'You should have done your researches better'

'Probably. But as I said before, we're ruthless. We kill people and I found torture to be quite... efficient to obtain answers. That's our way. You're lucky they didn't hurt you more.'

Hearing you scoff I look at you.

'So now I should be grateful ??'

A loud knock cutting our discussion short, I saw Sanzu and Koko entering the room while the doctor was leaving.

'Right on time. Your bitch is arriving soon. Vee, if might I say Veenus, this is Haruchiyo Sanzu and Hajime Kokonoi. Two of my executives. And the two who've been in contact with your friend Natalie.'

'Natalie?'

'Grace, Jackie. Busy yourself for the time being, she'll arrive soon anyway'

Now sitting next to me Koko started counting his cash while Sanzu popped a pill.

'And Haruchiyo, next time a girl gives you drug, don't. Or I'll kill you too'

Raising his hands in surrounder Sanzu laid on another couch.

You looked out of place, you in my office, blood on your legs.

'You wanna eat something? Drink something?'

'Lasagnas please'

'Oh that's Mikey's favourite food'

Glancing at Sanzu who looked already wasted I took his jacket thrown besides me and wiped the excess of blood on it.

'Hey Mikey what the fuck?? This shit costed me thousands yens!!'

'And??'

'Koko gimme some money so I can-'

'Why would I? You always come to me when you're low on cash.'

'The hell? You're my friend?'

'Clearly not'

Your chuckles surprised the three of us I think. Stopping what I was doing I looked at you and saw you smile. But as soon as you noticed it, you dropped it.

While time passed my personal chief cooked what you requested and you were now eating, not even looking at us.

'Mikey?'

All eyes turning to the door, Ran was standing tall and proud with a petite blonde woman by his side, bruises all over her face.

'That must be the star of the night. Where are the bruises from?'

'Not us, our guys found her like that'

Frowning I was ready to stand up and examine her but you overtook me and jumped on her, hugging her tighlty.

-Mikey

now….

I squeeze Nat hard, forgetting about her wounds and my own for a second. Pulling back, I frown at her face. Purple peppers her browline, cheeks and jaw in bruises of all shapes and sizes, blood dribbling from her nose. She looks awful. Like me. Nat—

Mikey separates us, and keeps me behind him with strength I didn’t even know he had. I claw as his back, trying to close the distance between my friend and I. His friends restrain me, leaving him to examine Natalie without any hassle. Took you long enough, he quips, gripping her chin roughly, a low whistle escaping his lips as he perused the damage. Somebody fucked you up before we could. How many people have you pissed off, Natalie?

The chef comes in just then, a steaming tray in their hands. They bow immediately, knowing they’ve just entered a tense situation at a really inopportune time. He unveils the cheesy dish, its delicious aroma wafting up my nose. My mouth would water any other time, but tonight I just feel sick. I play with my fork as a sign of good manners, but other than that the food went untouched.

Hey, Mikey calls my attention over to him, tapping the outside of my thighs—furthest away from my injuries. Eat.

As much as I wanted to say it was spite keeping me from stomaching my favorite dish in front of him, I can’t manage to. I had been through too much today. Food’s the last thing on my mind.

Mikey frowns at that. I almost make the mistake of thinking he actually cares for a second before looking away, remembering what went on a few rooms down while he watched. Fuck him, and his fucking organization. I wanted out of here as soon as possible.

But for now, I guess I had to play jury duty, my friend from diaper days up for persecution. How fucked up was that?

Well, Natalie, Mikey smiles, the venom behind it faintly hidden. Why don’t we start from the beginning? When exactly did you become an enemy of Bonten?

#not him wanting to FUCK? #electric chair #boy i want u to d word atm #the odds of you getting coochie from me rn are SLIM. #you haven’t even groveled at my feet PLS #not sanzu getting dogged the entire day Wikksksksjsjd #🗝; citizen #🗝; mikey #🗝; chronicles of vee: vol. 1

[numinousnic]

im so glad you appreciate Jonathan Harker as well. if he were any more fit he'd be the ultimate himbo i swear

IN THIS HOUSE, WE LOVE AND RESPECT JONATHAN HARKER!! (Even — nay, especially!  — when he is severely lacking in genre savviness.)

And you're not wrong! While I will argue that he is an important ancestor of the modern himbo (especially as it applies to horror), Jonathan remains, sadly, not a Classic Himbo, as defined by the following threefold criteria:

Is he a beefcake? Is he hot, and, MOST IMPORTANTLY, IS HE BUFF??

Is he "not the sharpest bulb in the drawer"? (Yes, that is something I have said before, and yes, I have yet to live it down.) Simply put: is he SUPER dumb?

BUT: does he have a heart of gold? Is he kind? Respectful? A good egg in general?

If the answer to all three is a resounding "YES!" then congratulations! We have a bona fide himbo on our hands!

Jonathan Harker, as previously established, is a solid 2/3 due to lack of beef. Although his escape from Dracula's castle was pretty physically demanding and earns him some serious kudos, the man's constitution is nevertheless incredibly delicate. But in all other regards, he ranks pretty well! He's 1) oblivious as hell, and 2) never forgets to drink his Respect Women Juice (and take his Cherish Wife Multivitamins) every day.

But that begs the question: how do the other gents of Dracula stack up? So with these criteria in mind, I went ahead and did some ranking, from LEAST to MOST himbo-rific. (I may end up revising these later — because I've been meaning to reread Dracula anyway, and this is a good enough reason to do that! — but these are my gut reactions based on my year-and-a-half-old memory of the book, so forgive me if I fudge some details.)

Count Dracula 

1. BEEF: NO! Regardless of how later adaptations choose to depict him, he is a GROSS OLD MAN and NOT HOT OR BEEFY in the SLIGHTEST!!

2. BRAINS: ... Jury's out on this one. I personally think Dracula's plan to take over England is hilariously dumb (and his aliases are even DUMBER), but hindsight bias aside, it's not a terrible idea and it probably could have succeeded if no one had picked up on what he was trying to do. So he may have had some brains, but it did not help him!

3. HEART: AGAIN: NO! AS HIS "BRIDES" ATTEST, HE LITERALLY DOES NOT CARE ABOUT ANYONE BESIDES HIMSELF!! AND I WILL FISTFIGHT FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA FOR MAKING PEOPLE THINK OTHERWISE!!

CONCLUSION: NOT, NOT, NOT A HIMBO. DRACULA IS A TERRIBLE, RANCID CREEP AND ABOUT AS FAR AS SOMEONE CAN GET FROM BEING A HIMBO.

Renfield

1. BEEF: I mean... I remember Renfield being described as pretty strong, so he could be jacked? But I don't think he's particularly hot.

2. BRAINS: Since Seward repeatedly stresses that he's pretty cunning and manipulative, and since he succeeds on getting out of his cell a number of times, Renfield's pretty clearly not dumb! (And calling him dumb based purely on the fact that he's in a mental institution is gross and ableist!)

3. HEART: Overall, Renfield's not an especially nice person, but he does stand up to Dracula in the end, so... pity point for that, I guess.

CONCLUSION: Again, not a himbo. But at least Renfield's not as much of a not-himbo as Dracula (although to be fair, that is a low fucking bar)!

Abraham Van Helsing

1. BEEF: Maybe? I mean, a twinky Van Helsing just feels wrong in my mind, but honestly, I think that's just because he's a middle-aged dude. Not particularly beefy, not particularly hot — but I'm not holding that against him!

2. BRAINS: Van Helsing is a doctor, a professor, and a lawyer, and he has a pretty vast body of miscellaneous knowledge beyond those professional fields (most notably of vampires) so: solidly disqualified from being dumb! He might express his knowledge in particularly bizarre ways, but that has more to do with the fact that Bram Stoker is hopelessly and hilariously bad at writing accents than with Van Helsing being dumb.

3. HEART: A generally decent man, his 19th-century-typical sexism and his occasional emotional bluntness aside! Very steadfast, very resolved, and very faithful.

CONCLUSION: Charmingly weird uncle vibes? Yes. Himbo? Hell no.

John Seward

1. BEEF: Seward may have had an adventurous life with his manly pals Holmwood and Morris before he decided to be "respectable" and run a mental institution, but if he had muscles once, he is decidedly non-muscular now after years of being a nerd. Apparently has a good jawline according to Lucy, but that could mean anything re: overall hotness.

2. BRAINS: Much like Van Helsing, Seward is a multi-talented man of the mind (and he has a pretty good grasp of modern technology!) So, not especially dumb, even if he doesn't really think vampires are a Thing at first (because honestly, who would?)

3. HEART: A bit of a sadboy, but again, a decent dude. Plus, he's devoted to Lucy (and trying his best to save her life) and pals with Mina, so the Respect Women Juice is being chugged!

CONCLUSION: Seward could have had himbo potential in his youth before he decided to go to medical school! But he's not a himbo now, and that's what matters.

Arthur Holmwood

1. BEEF: Arthur's an English aristocrat. I refuse to believe he's jacked. Hot in that pasty upper-crust way that some find appealing, perhaps, but not jacked.

2. BRAINS: Again: Arthur's an English aristocrat. His main contributions to the Kill Dracula Committee are his money and his connections for a reason, and it's because he has nothing else to offer.

3. HEART: Oh, this man has so much heart. Arthur's ready to do anything and everything to save Lucy, and it's so painful to read how much it kills him to kill her once she becomes a vampire. I may rag on Arthur for a lot of things, but I deeply respect his emotional depth.

CONCLUSION: Like Jonathan Harker, Arthur is a solid 2/3! But again, his lack of beef is holding him back from the top spot, which goes to...

Quincey Morris

1. BEEF: Quincey's a cowboy. He is BRINGING the BEEF. (Also, cowboys are hot; I don't make the rules.)

2. BRAINS: Objectively speaking, him seeing a bat lurking outside the window during the inaugural meeting of the Kill Dracula Committee, assuming that bat is Dracula in disguise, and trying to get rid of it is a smart move. But going outside to shoot it and, in doing so, shooting through the window in the middle of the meeting? That's a himbo move if ever I saw one.

3. HEART: We should all be so lucky to have as devoted a friend as Quincey Morris. Not only does he not act all toxic and friendzone-y about Lucy turning down his proposal, but he wishes her all the best and promises to be her friend no matter what! And then he sends a telegram to Arthur congratulating him and proposing to get drinks with him and Seward so they can talk about how awesome Lucy is! And he means so much to the Kill Dracula Committee that Jonathan and Mina name their son in his memory! This man's heart is SOLID gold, and EVERYONE knows it.

CONCLUSION: WE'VE FOUND OUR HIMBO, AND HIS NAME IS JOHN CENA QUINCEY MORRIS!! (And thanks for coming to my TedTalk!)

#in which i answer asks #nicolekilo #i am so sorry for this incredibly long-winded answer but my brain just took this and RAN with it #... this is probably a sign i should reread dracula soon #literature #dracula #literary humor #himbos #my meta #if you can CALL it that

[chquine]

Normie Tactics: Piggyback

Inspired by @justmorerpmemes prompts: "I can't... You're going to have to carry me..." and "I can't move... I'm too tired..."

Also the reaction on the previous Normie Tactics was overwhelming, I got more inspired. XD

I do not own Levi or the setting of the world he is in. The story is the only thing I own.

That said, ENJOY!! <3

<>.<>

Levi was scouting the location of Ruri-chan's fanmeet in two weeks. As a die hard fan of the idol, it was unacceptable for him to not be first in line. He estimated that he would have to camp at the venue at midnight; two days before the actual event. The venue had a bathroom where he could freshen up and change his clothes before meeting with the idol. As much as he did not like it, most of his games and anime would have to be put at the backburner.

Awww maaaan... And I just got a copy of I Can't Believe I've Used Up All of My Nine Lives and Still Didn't Get a Girlfriend and the new visual novel Heaven's Door. Then again, this is Ruri-chan. Aaaaaaaah! Geez! If only I could somehow do all of them at the same time!!

He was walking back to the House of Lamentation when his D.D.D vibrated in his pocket. Mammon and Asmo were prone to spamming him with messages full of nonsense, so Levi had his phone silenced most of the time. It only vibrated when someone in his emergency contacts sent him a message or called him, and there were only two people there: Lucifer and you.

Pulling out the device his screen showed a candid shot of you in your pajamas, drinking from a straw, holding one of the controllers in his room, and staring at the television intently. Immediately, his heart rate quickened.

Wait she called me? A girl is actually calling me?! I mean she's a 3D human normie, but she still has XX chromosomes!! So this counts! She's also pretty cute and-gaaaaah!! What the heck am I saying???

"Hello?" He tried to sound as casual as possible.

Don't let her know you wanted her to call, Levi. Cause like... You definitely didn't.

"L-L-L-Lord Levi?"

"Who's this?" He did not recognize the voice.

Oh man! Is this a kidnapping scenario?? No wait, everyone knows she's Lord Diavolo's guest. Did she drop her phone somewhere? Nah, too unexciting... And it's not like my friendship level with her's high enough for me to contacted for emergencies...

Before his thoughts could come up with a couple hundred more conclusions about her (which was not because he was worried, of course), the lesser demon explained that the human had collapsed while working at the Akuzon delivery center and that they had called whoever was at speed dial one. It filled Levi with no small amount of giddiness when he heard this, because he was in speed dial one; not Mammon or Lucifer.

That's totally normal right? I mean... It's not like I wanted to be in speed dial one! Not at all! Who'd want to be immediately informed if someone they cared about was in an emergency? Certainly not me.

"Okay. I'm on my way."

Wait! Is this another normie tactic? Already in enough trouble, Mammon is. Looking for someone else to face Lucifer, this human is. Well, fall for it, Levi will not.

Despite himself, he was already in front of the Akuzon delivery center. You were lying down on one of the many couches, looking pale and haggard. Lucifer had allowed you to work so you could have personal Grimm you could spend, assuming that Mammon didn't borrow from you.

Knowing that idiot, he probably did borrow money. Ugh... He's totally insensitive towards other people. Not that I particularly care or anything...

"Levi?"

"Y-yeah?" He was startled by the sudden sounding of your voice.

"Can we go home now?"

He nodded and reached out a hand to you; he tilted his head when you made no move to get up. "Well?"

"I um... I can't walk," you said sheepishly.

Levi blinked at you, trying to process what you were saying.

Aha! A normie tactic it was!! Knew it, I did!! She's got another thing coming if she thinks she can make me carry her!!

"Sorry Levi," you said looking much like Mammon when Lucifer took his credit card. "I've been running on fumes for three days, and I'm really sorry... I can't move... I'm too tired."

He blinked, feeling quite a bit of concern. It was odd to Levi how he had the smallest bit of concern he had only ever felt for the 2D-related contents of his room.

I-I-I-It's only cause I need someone to play coop raids and games with. Yeah! She's a fragile, 3D, normie human, but like... Gaaaaaaah! Even, I cannot!!

"You... Can't?" His voice cracked and he mentally smacked himself.

"I can't... You're going to have to carry me..."

THERE IT IIIIIIIIIIIIS!!!! I KNEW IT! I KNEW SHE WAS TRYING TO TROPE ME!! It was a normie tactic!! She knows I'll get (CENSORED) by Lucifer if I leave her here. Plus! Carrying a girl is totally an existing fantasy! Ugh! Outwitted me, this human has.

Levi found that he wasn't really upset about it as he carried you on his back. "Y'know I don't really have the stats for stuff like this," he told you as he made his way to the House of Lamentation.

"Sorry," you said. "Am I heavy?"

"No. Have you been eating properly? N-N-N-Not that I care! But like... Lucifer's not going to like hearing this happened."

"Hmmm... I think so?"

"Well... Beel's been eating more than usual lately. But doesn't the cafeteria at RAD have food?"

"It does. I just forget..." you chuckled lightly. "There's something I want to buy."

"I mean... If you asked I'd buy it for you."

Before he could even process that thought, Levi had already spoken it. His cheeks flushed and he started sputtering: "D-D-Don't g-g-g-get the wrong i-i-i-idea!! It's um... a bribe. Yeah! It's a bribe cause Ruri-chan's fanmeet is in two weeks and I have to be first in line. So I'm camping two days before the event and-!"

You laughed, immediately shutting him up. "Thank you, Levi."

Soon your breathing evened out and Levi finally reached the House of Lamentation. It was his turn to cook in the morning, so he would have to make sure that Beel doesn't inhale everything in a split second. On the other hand, he was over the moon.

Totally rad, this is. Believe that a girl is on my back, I cannot. Go wild when told about this, the forums will.

As soon as he thought that, Levi stopped in his tracks. He thought about this previously when you pulled that yukata trick on him during the summer festival. And just like then, he was not so inclined to tell other shut ins like him that he had piggybacked a cute girl.

Okay she's not cute or anything!! She's just a girl!! BUT it would be totally unfair if they gained EXP from my pact!! So boo-hoo for them!! I'm not sharing this!

<>.<>

Thanks for reading!! Also this made my heart just go... xD

#obey me #obey me levi #obey me leviathan #normie tactics #piggyback rides #levi can still carry you fite me on this #obey me spoilers #obey me screenshot #based on a prompt #well... two prompts

[folightening]

Don't Go

Young Xehanort/Sora

Rated Teen

Summary: Five times Sora asked Xehanort to stay and one time he didn't have to.

5+1 fic with established relationship and shifting pov - some implied sexual content

- 1 -

This was not at all acceptable. It would do nothing for his plans. This wouldn't push Sora any closer to reawakening his power. He had absolutely nothing to gain from this. In fact, in the long run, continuing this could very well become a problem.

Despite all that, he couldn't part from the soft lips eagerly devouring his own or the lithe body encouraging their bad decision with every roll of those wide hips. Not until Sora was tugging down the zipper of his coat. Xehanort sat up to remove the coat himself, dropping it to the side as Sora shrugged out of his own jacket and pulled the tank top over his head. Sora may not be terribly muscular - he really was on the small and skinny side - but there was always something to be said about unassuming strength. That Sora was so powerful without physically giving it away was a trait that Xehanort found very attractive. As frustrating as Sora had proven that particular strength of his to be at times.

"We going to continue," Sora asked, "or are you going to sit there staring?"

"I'm enjoying the view."

Sora laughed but Xehanort's smile quickly faded as his gaze focused on the discolored X crossing Sora's torso. If he needed any reminder why this shouldn't be happening, that was a good one.

"Perhaps this isn't such a good idea."

"What?" Sora scoffed at him in disbelief, then followed Xehanort's gaze to his own chest. "Oh no. You are not leaving me now over this."

"Sora,"

"I don't want to hear it."

Sora grabbed his face with both hands and frowned at him with kiss-swollen lips. The stern look in his eyes was beautiful.

"What happened during my Mark of Mastery exam doesn't matter. Right now, I want you. You want me. So... please... stay and finish what we started."

For a few long moments Xehanort searched Sora's beautiful blue eyes. He could still deny him and leave; Sora wouldn't stop him. It would be the right thing to do. But Sora was right.

Gently taking Sora's wrists in his hands, Xehanort pressed down into another deep kiss. He could stay and forget about his - their - destiny for a while. It was easy to do that with Sora.

- 2 -

The Ocean Between really did look the same when viewed from on a world. An endless sea of twinkling stars; more than enough worlds to keep any wanderer busy for decades. Sora had seen many worlds and he was positive they didn't amount to even a tiny fraction of the worlds out there. Xehanort, however...

"How many have you been to?"

"Me personally? I didn't keep count," Xehanort said. "Nowhere near even half as many as my future self; he spent a large portion of his life running between worlds, seeing everything he could."

Sora hummed, nodded, and shifted position so his head was resting more on Xehanort's shoulder than his arm. For a moment he wondered how much had been wanderlust and how much had been for what he was doing now. When exactly had Xehanort decided to do all this?

"You have any favorites?"

Sora didn't really expect him to know about any from his future, and Xehanort probably wasn't really the type to rank worlds but Sora wanted to know more about him. His preferred worlds to visit was a safe enough topic.

"As much as I couldn't wait to get off the islands, I do find myself drawn to peaceful worlds where nothing much happens. However... My first will always have a special place in my heart, despite some of the memories associated with it."

Tilting his head up to look at him, Sora turned more onto his side. From this angle Xehanort didn't look particularly sad or bothered but a line like that could only be talking about bad memories.

"Want to talk about it?"

"Scala ad Caelum," Sora didn't miss the reverence in his voice, "was a beautiful world full of Light. No matter where you went you could hear the windmills, the ocean... An island city painted in whites and greens against a backdrop of blues... Scala's beauty is indescribable. You'd have to see it to understand."

That Xehanort couldn't find the worlds told Sora more about the place than any description Xehanort could have given him. Sometime, if possible, he'd like to go there.

"What were those memories you mentioned earlier?"

Xehanort laughed bitterly.

"Nothing too terrible. I have always been... different, and my opinions and interests weren't the most popular or accepted. I was also consistently the top of my class, which the nobility didn't like much. Then there was when I left..."

Xehanort trailed off and the frown on his lips had Sora wanting to comfort him. Without knowing what exactly was troubling Xehanort, he didn't know how much he could do.

"But you have good memories of the place." Why else would it be special to him?

"Most of my fondest memories are there."

From before whatever set him on this path happened, Sora supposed.

"Could you tell me about them?"

Xehanort chuckled and shifted so his arm was more comfortably around Sora. After a few moments he started telling stories of living in Scala ad Caelum. Chess matches with a peer named Eraqus - who's name caused a momentary odd feeling somewhere in his heart that Sora couldn't quite name. Nights spent telling stories with the stars with Eraqus and Yen Sid, though he couldn't read them the way Yen Sid does. One particular lazy afternoon he held dear and didn't get into much detail with. Being named a Master and achieving part of his life's goal...

After a while Sora couldn't stifle the yawn. It was late and he should've gone to sleep hours ago. They had a lot they still had to do in this world and he shouldn't do it sleepy.

"I should go," Xehanort said. "There are only a few hours left before dawn."

"A few more minutes?"

He was comfortable here, and he'd rather fall asleep with Xehanort than alone on the hard ground.

"Very well," Xehanort chuckled. "Until you fall asleep."

- 3 -

Sitting on the edge of the bed to pull his boots on wasn't a good idea. Thin arms wrapped around his waist, not impeding his motions at all but an obvious demand. Xehanort smiled at the gesture, but even so:

"I should be going."

Even half asleep as Xehanort knew he still was, Sora had quite the grip. He shook his head, soft hair tickling Xehanort's back, and returned his cheek to the space between Xehanort's shoulder blades.

"Don't need to be up for an hour," Sora explained, "so you can't leave yet."

"As much as I would love to spend more time with you--"

"You said 'should be', not 'need to'. I forbid it."

"Really?" He couldn't stop the chuckle. It was endearing how Sora thought he could forbid him from doing anything. A lot of what Sora did was endearing.

Though if Sora wanted him to linger that badly... It wasn't as if Xehanort wanted to leave. Quite the opposite, in fact. Xehanort would spend all morning, perhaps even longer, lazing around with Sora if their respective roles allowed it. ...He wasn't doing anything that couldn't be put off for half an hour.

"A bit longer," he relented. "I do have things I must do."

He had no idea how he was going to explain this to Ansem. The truth simply wouldn't do, definitely not, but Ansem was always so difficult to appease once he'd been deliberately ignored.

Sora nuzzling his face into his chest and fully relaxing against his side once more made the later headache worth it.

- 4 -

"I cannot believe you called me here to sneak away from your companions and play in the sand."

Finding some reason to get away from Donald and Goofy was something Sora found himself doing more and more lately. And not just because he wanted to spend more time with Xehanort. For all the problems Sora knew there was with this relationship, at least Xehanort didn't insult him all the time.

"Playing in the sand is fun."

Xehanort made a face that wrinkled his nose and reminded Sora of a person who'd just eaten something sour. It was an interesting expression and definitely not one he would've expected to ever see on Xehanort's face.

"It's the middle of the night," Xehanort argued though Sora doubted that had been his problem.

Besides, it had to be the middle of the night. He wouldn't get the chance to goof off if it wasn't. Sora placed his hands on his hips and frowned up at Xehanort.

"Do you want to spend time with me or not?"

A slight smile, half grin really, curved one side of Xehanort's mouth as he leaned forward.

"I was always told to avoid pirates."

In mock offense, Sora stepped back and placed a hand over his heart. It wasn't long before he was laughing.

"Come on, help me build a sand castle."

"I'll have you know, I haven't built a sand castle in years."

That activity didn't last long. Nor did an impromptu game of two person tag, once Xehanort tossed Sora into the ocean. Coming back up soaked and laughing, Sora tackled Xehanort into the shallow water just off the beach. The man went down easily, his own deep laughter mixing with Sora's.

Gently taking Xehanort's face in his hands, Sora moved up and kissed him. Three times; none lasting more than a brief moment. They were enough to bring a light flush to Xehanort's cheeks and leave a small smile on his lips.

"Stealing kisses now?"

"What kind of pirate would I be if I didn't steal at least kisses?"

Xehanort chuckled and stroked Sora's cheek. Without thinking, Sora leaned into the touch. Xehanort was always so gentle with him in moments like this; it was difficult not to enjoy the touches that came from this mood.

"We should get out of the water," Xehanort said.

They stood and walked onto the beach where Xehanort used some careful fire spells to dry them and their clothes. Of course Xehanort would be skilled enough to pull that off without burning them. He was... Great wasn't a word he should use to describe Xehanort.

"Stay for the night," Sora said. "Please."

It had been a few weeks since they'd spent a night together.

Xehanort smiled that fond smile Sora was pretty sure only he got to see and took his hand.

"Of course."

- 5 -

Xehanort stepped out of the corridor with a speech prepared. It had been some time since he'd last attempted to really speak with Sora about Light and Darkness. By now, maybe the Light's champion would be more open to listening.

It hurt when he considered that Sora likely denied part of him the same way everyone else had. Their respective roles in this upcoming war was a topic they refused to discuss; Sora could very well be putting aside who exactly he was. The mere thought of Sora not truly accepting him... Xehanort took a breath and closed the corridor. If Sora wasn't willing... Well, cutting this off wouldn't hurt any more than what had happened with Eraqus.

He wasn't prepared to see or hear Sora crying.

Sora was always so cheerful, so upbeat and bright and more than eager to bring happiness to everyone around him. Nevermind how Xehanort felt about seeing him in this state; Sora likely didn't want anyone seeing him like this.

Opening a corridor again, Xehanort turned to leave but stopped at Sora's:

"Wait."

A hand grabbed his own and Xehanort looked at Sora. His heart ached in response to the tearful, pained expression.

"Don't go. I- Could you-"

Xehanort turned and stepped closer, pulling Sora into a hug without hesitation. The corridor closed behind him as Sora buried his face in his chest.

There was nothing to say even if Xehanort had been any good at giving comfort. He had no idea what was wrong or what form of comfort Sora even appreciated. This was new territory for them. So he simply held Sora as he cried for what felt like hours. Some time during it he did move them to a seated position on the floor with Sora in his lap as he rubbed his back. It didn't feel like he was doing much of anything. In fact, any of Sora's friends would have done better. But it was all he had.

"Thanks," Sora mumbled into his shoulder.

Xehanort smiled as he played with the back spikes of Sora's hair.

"Do you wish to talk about it?"

Sora shook his head.

"I'll prob'ly mess that up too."

He sniffed and rubbed his face on Xehanort's shoulder while Xehanort frowned.

"What are you going on about?"

"I don't get anything right. Too dumb and- I can't get the power of waking. Can't help them get Aqua, I don't know how to help Roxas or the others in my heart. I'm useless on my own..."

Dear Kingdom Hearts, what had people been telling Sora? No, he knew what that damn duck and the others were telling him. Everyone had a limit to how much they could take, and it seemed that Sora had finally reached his.

"You are far from useless; I daresay you're the biggest threat to my oldest self's plans." That may not be the most helpful assurance, but what was he supposed to say? "No one is perfect, and you... You have something special, something none of your friends have."

Gently he pushed Sora into an upright position and tilted his face to look at him. As expected of someone who'd been crying for so long, he looked dreadful.

"The power you have - your Power of Waking - is different. It's truly no wonder you have such troubles controlling it. It's hardly your fault you can't get a grasp on using it."

Now was not the time to tell Sora that he was consistently using it improperly.

"No. I'm just too dumb," Sora whimpered.

"You may be reckless, entirely too eager to help others, and trusting enough for it to be used against you, but you are not dumb."

Sora blinked tearful blue eyes at him and scowled but Xehanort wasn't quite finished yet.

"The ones who put you down, do they have a right to or are they judging you with no personal experiences to justify their comments? Do they have any idea how easy or difficult it is for someone to master the abilities you have been told to master?"

Sora looked away and Xehanort huffed. He thought so. Why Sora spent most of his time with people willing to insult him rather than with someone who cared, Xehanort would never fathom.

A few moments of silence passed, then Sora moved into him again. Hugged tightly as Sora sighed, Xehanort returned the hold with a looser one of his own.

"Stay with me."

"Of course, Sora. I will stay with you as long as fate will allow."

That was the tragic truth of their relationship: it couldn't last no matter how much they might want it to. They had a destiny to follow.

+ 1

A corridor opening in the room pulled Sora from his thoughts about Kairi. He didn't have to look to know who stepped out of it; there was only one member of the Organization that would pay him a visit like this.

"You shouldn't be here."

"I needed to see you."

Sora turned to look at him, unsurprised to see that Xehanort hadn't looked at him with that admittance. When it came to personal heart stuff, Xehanort always seemed to get flustered or close himself off. Refusing to look at Sora while he said it was the best Sora could hope for from him.

"Pretty sure you aren't supposed to talk to the enemy the night before a big battle."

"We've done much more than talk and I never once heard a complaint."

Sora felt his cheeks heat at the reminder and now it was his turn to look away. That was true, but Xehanort being here the night before the big destined battle was different. It was dangerous, and other things Sora couldn't put a name to.

"When you're enemies," Xehanort added in a quieter voice, "the night before a big battle is the last chance you get to say what needs said."

That got Sora's attention and he was a little disappointed to see Xehanort studying his bookshelf as if it was actually interesting to him. For a few moments Sora waited for Xehanort to continue. Instead, Xehanort turned his focus to the keychains Sora'd collected during his adventure.

"So... What did you come here to say?"

Xehanort tensed and still didn't look at him. He rubbed his thumb over the red rose chain Sora had gotten from Belle.

"There is much I wish to say, but... I haven't quite found the words."

Sora could guess what was on his mind. He knew Xehanort decently well - he doubted anyone could claim to know Xehanort well - by now. This version of him anyway.

Getting up from the bed, Sora walked over and wrapped his arms around Xehanort's waist, resting his cheek on his back and gently holding him. Xehanort could take all the time he needed to gather his thoughts.

For a minute or two they stood there, just enjoying the other's presence. Sora could feel himself relaxing more than he really should with a version of Xehanort in his bedroom; especially this particular night. But he'd slept in his presence numerous times before and nothing bad ever happened.

That first time didn't count.

"I'm glad you're here," Sora said. He felt Xehanort tense then relax.

Xehanort turned to face him, his hands rose to cup Sora's face, and Sora smiled up at him. A few moments of Xehanort simply studying his face passed before Xehanort was moving closer. The kiss was gentle, yet full of a desperation Sora didn't understand. He could feel it in the way Xehanort's fingers pressed into his skin, the way his lips moved against his. Almost on auto he raised his hands to Xehanort's back. One hand pet through his hair while the other rest on his shoulders.

It startled Sora when he realized Xehanort was trembling.

Sora drew back in concern to see tears clinging to Xehanort's lashes and watched as one rolled down his cheek. Xehanort's lips parted briefly, long enough for a sharp inhale. Gently cupping his cheek, Sora wiped the tears away on that side. He... Had no idea what to say. What to feel. What was he supposed to do? Xehanort was crying.

Xehanort was crying.

"It's so easy to forget why I'm here when I'm with you. I forget that I am... Nothing more than a useful piece in a game of chess."

There was so much Sora wanted to say to that. Most of all how bullshit it was.

"You make me feel wanted."

"I try."

The laugh was a weak sound that quickly changed back to soft crying. Sora reached up and buried his hand in the soft spikes of Xehanort's hair. Xehanort's forehead pressed against his a few moments later. His eyes stared right into Sora's with so much emotion that Sora was stunned into stillness. He'd never seen Xehanort's eyes look like that. They were beautiful.

"I love you," Xehanort admitted. "So much I-- Allow me this last night together with you."

Before everything ends, Sora's mind supplied. One of them was going to lose tomorrow.

In a way both of them would.

#soxeha #sora (kingdom hearts) #xehanort #young xehanort #kingdom hearts #kh #fol stuff