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dragonfirerogue-writes · 1 year

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Torture Souls

Wednesday x Kitsune!Reader

Waiting for Tyler was nerve wracking, especially with the knowledge that he was dangerous. Perched atop a tree, you were tasked with signalling his arrival. The plan was to lure him to the woods and restrain him. Luckily, the Nightshades were able to give their aid.

You saw your target park his car and step out to trek through the woods. With a sigh, you send out a foxfire wisp ahead of you as a heads up before speeding off to meet with the others.

Wednesday steps out from behind a pillar when you land. You readjust your clothing as you look back towards where Tyler would be arriving.

"He's on his way now. Get ready."

"I always am."

You didn't even look at her. In fact, you were a little mad at yourself for agreeing to help so easily. The feelings you held for Wednesday felt like a vice right now. For now though, you shoved them away as you joined the others.

You wait until you hear the leaves crunch under footsteps. Nodding to your friends, you wait for Wednesday's cue as she walks out to meet the boy.

"Thing gave me your note." The hopeful optimism in Tyler's voice was evident. "I'm surprised you wanted to see me after you ran out the other night."

Wednesday kept silent.

"So... Is this a date?" You nearly gag. Bianca rolls her eyes which almost makes Ajax laugh if Davina didn't swiftly cover his mouth.

You all listen back into the conversation as Wednesday relays her suspicions. Memories from Outreach day, the Rave'N and the incident at the Gates mansion filled your mind as she recounts them.

"I'm not a monster." Tyler shakes his head in disbelief. "And if you really thought that I was, why would you risk bringing me out to the woods to confront me alone?"

Wednesday's lip quirks up slightly, smirking. You step out from your hiding spot, taking your place at the goth's right side, just behind her.

"Who said she was alone?"

The others walk out. Yoko, Bianca, Ajax, Kent and Davina. They all surround Tyler, causing him to look at them in disbelief.

"Ok, I don't know what kind of sick joke you're playing, Wednesday, but I'm out of here."

You hold a smirk as he moves to walk past you only to be blocked by Bianca.

"Actually, you're coming with us."

Using her siren song, she lulls him into her sway. He stands there, as if a thrall and everyone just look at him for a moment.

"Come. I know where we can take him."

-----+++++-----

It takes a good ten minutes after tying him up before Tyler wakes up from Bianca's influence. Wednesday stands in front of him while the others line up behind her. You were perched on a stool, leaning back on the table.

"Welcome back, Sleeping Beauty." Tyler's eyes dart to you before settling on Wednesday.

"Where the hell am I?"

"Somewhere no one can hear your screams." You had to smile at that. It was such a typical Wednesday line.

You watch as the two go back and forth, with Wednesday revealing what she dug up in the past few days of investigating the Galpin family. Mainly on Tyler's mother. The group held strong until the plans for torture come up. Bianca steps up at that.

"Wednesday, hold on."

"Wait, are you being serious?" Ajax was baffled. You wondered how anyone could be surprised.

Disagreements erupted and slowly, the Nightshades filed out of Xavier's studio shed. You figure that they would go to Principal Weems which means that if Wednesday went through with her plans, she'd only have a limited time.

"You're not leaving as well?" It was the first time she initiated a conversation all night.

Looking over at the goth, you could see her eyes on you. She was waiting for an answer. With a shrug, you hop off of the stool.

"If they're going to Weems, she's gonna call Galpin." You step towards the doors. "If that's the case, someone has to warn you when they get here. I'll keep a watch." As you open the door, you turn to look at the goth. "Torture's an intimate affair anyway. Don't wanna get in your way."

Wednesday would've smiled at that if Tyler didn't open his mouth.

"Don't leave me alone with her!" The chains rattled as he struggled against them. "Please, I'm begging you!"

"Tough luck, man. Wednesday'll do what she wants whether I'm here or not."

"Why are you letting her do this? This won't make her love you. She's incapable. I should know."

You pause at that. The silence in the room was stifling. He essentially blurted your feelings for Wednesday to her. There's a moment before you're suddenly in front of the boy, tipping his chair back.

"I know. I have the scars to prove it. But despite everything... I trust her." Though you didn't see her, Wednesday's eyes softened ever so slightly. "So you better show your true colors soon or this could be a long night for you."

The chair slams back down as you let him go. With a sigh, you finally leave, the sound of the crackling taser following you.

It takes an hour before anything of notice happens. You had been perched on a tree, humming a song stuck in your head because of what Tyler had said earlier. Your fox ears were out and trained on the shed behind you while your eyes kept watch ahead.

Soon enough, faint flickers of red and blue catch your attention and you fall into action.

"Wednesday!" You called out as soon as you burst through the doors. "Galpin's on his way. He'll be here any minute."

Tyler was hunched over, breathing heavily while Wednesday held a hammer. She looked at you, going through scenarios in her mind. What she said next surprised you.

"Go. Leave me with him."

"Wait, what? No. I'm not letting you take the fall alone."

She steps up to you, words quiet but rushed. "You will not be implicated in this with me. There is still a chance to stop things if you and the others are free to act." Her eyes flicker to the lights coming closer. "Go, mia volpe."

You hesitate for a moment longer. Just enough to give her arm a reassuring squeeze before darting out in your fox form. Not two minutes later, police cruisers raced up and cops piled into the shed.

All you could do was watch and wait.

-----+++++-----

The news of Wednesday's expulsion tore through the school in seconds. As much as she hated it, the goth was always the talk of the school. The next time you see Wednesday, you manage to catch her as she's packing. You lean on the doorframe, not wanting to interrupt the roommate moment between her and Enid.

"Xavier's right. This prophecy cannot come true if I'm not here." Wednesday grips at her trunk slightly. "But it kills me to leave when Tyler is still walking around free."

Enid lets out her usual grin. "If he tries anything, we have a school full of gorgons, vampires, and werewolves ready and waiting." You decide to pipe in then.

"Don't forget kitsune." Both of the girls, and Thing you noticed, turn to look at you. You offer a small smile as Enid beams at you.

"We got this, Wednesday. We promise." You offer a reassuring nod before fishing out your phone.

"On a happier note, I got a text from Eugene's moms. Says he woke up last night. Figured you'd like to know."

"Maybe Weems'll let you drop by on your way to the station."

Thing's snapping interrupts the conversation as he signs insistently. Wednesday straightens her posture. "I think we're all set."

"I'll walk you down. I'll just be outside."

You let the roommates have their moment. It wasn't long until Wednesday appeared next to you. With a nod, you begin to make your way downstairs only for Wednesday to grab your arm and move elsewhere.

"You know Weems is waiting, right?"

"This won't be long. I just need a moment with you."

A confused look crossed your face, but you allowed yourself to get dragged. It wasn't too far. Just an alcove in the hallway. Before you could say a word, Wednesday speaks up.

"I expect to hear about Tyler's downfall soon after I leave." You smirk at that. For just a second, you thought she would be soft and sappy. Shame on you for even considering it.

"Don't worry, Wednesday. Any step outta bounds and he'll eat foxfire." Wisps float around your hands to emphasize the point. "I have some tricks up my sleeve."

"Good."

Wednesday's eyes flick around before turning to you again.

"I feel like something bad is going to happen. And not a good bad. I trust you to keep an eye on things for me."

A smile slowly grows in your face.

"You trust me? 'A trickster demon known to deceive for fun or malice.' How do you know I won't turn on you?"

You couldn't help but throw the words she spoke upon your first meeting. It showed the goth's growth during the semester and it made a sense of pride bubble up. The feelings you had for Wednesday had been well earned in your eyes. You just hoped she returned even a fraction of those feelings.

You get that answer when Wednesday takes your hand and places it on her cheek. The unexpected gesture surprises you to no end. This was the last thing you expected to happen. As the surprise ebbs away, your body reacts. You step closer as your thumb caresses cold cheeks. Her eyes stare into yours as the moment stretches in silence.

"I know you won't turn on me," Wednesday whispers. "You know what torture awaits if you do."

You let out a breath of a laugh.

"I do. But with you, I think I'd be ok with that."

The two of you spend a minute longer in your bubble until the goth steps back, letting your hand fall from her cheek. Suddenly it feels like you can breathe again.

"Any longer and I'm sure Weems will stage a witch hunt."

"Then let's away." You step back to let Wednesday walk towards the staircase. "You'll be missed, dark soul."

"As will you, mia volpe."

+______________+Tag List+______________+

@screechcat @trishatheotaku @halleest @ashlynnmalfoy @a-trash-person @rainbow-love4ever @ognenniyvolk @spadesinfodump @maria-403 @simonsbluee @awolfcsworld @wizardofstories @alexandra-001

#a dragon tries to write #Wednesday Addams x reader #Wednesday x Reader

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myfairkatiecat · 21 days

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Thing you're most excited for in the movie?

I’m really excited to see how they handle telepathy and the abilities and such!! Like what does it look like? It’s gonna be soooo cool!

Also the costuming and sets could be GORGEOUS. ETHEREAL. Y’ALL WE’RE GONNA GET TO SEE ETERNALIA

the lost cities have beautiful clear air it’ll probably be soooo bright and pretty I’m SO PSYCHED

Also you know I’m gonna go insane when sophie stumbles through the halls of foxfire after destroying Galvin’s cape and we hear “you must be lost” and THE CAMERA PANS OVER TO KEEFE SENCEN (I love him I love him I love him)

#thanks for the ask!#kotlc #keeper of the lost cities

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mxnkeydo · 9 months

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so scarlet (it was maroon) ✧ sokeefe

✧ ship: Sophie x Keefe

✧ what to expect: it all went down went a book went soaring across the classroom but sophie never expects it to end the way it does. acrylic smeared on cheeks, pigment-stained clothes, and a whole keefe sencen later, maybe she never despised him as much as she thought she did.

✧ genre: romance, fluff, humor, sarcasm - enemies to lovers trope, human au, and a love triangle to torment you guys 😈

✧ word count: 1362

✧ warnings: swearing

✧ link to masterlist

✧ link to chapter two

✧ link to chapter four

***

CHAPTER THREE

Art truly is a funny thing. To the naked eye, a piece of artwork can seem complete, only requiring a few touches of color to be declared finished. But have the artist himself look at it and he’ll tell you there is much to be done, many strokes to be painted, and even more ideas to be spilled onto canvas.

That’s how Keefe felt as he tapped his foot, gazing at the landscape he’d painted. He had everything he needed - the fading light shimmering against the water; the little lilies adorning a patch of green grass; a flock of birds soaring to the heavens in a v-formation. It was done, Keefe told himself, yet he picked up a paintbrush anyway. Whipping out a series of acrylic bottles, he dipped the top of his paintbrush into its depths, noting the way his heartbeat slowed to match his breaths. Then he touched the paintbrush to his colorful canvas and that was that; he’d given his hand a mind of its own.

Keefe drew a circle, a line, an organic blob, more lines. In a few swift strokes and different colors, he had added a new addition to his painting. He penned his signature at the bottom right corner, standing back to gaze at it in satisfaction—and a hint of wonder. Now he could confidently say he’d finished yet another painting.

There, standing amongst the white lilies, stood a young girl, her blonde hair waving wildly in the evening winds. A faint blush of exhilaration on her cheeks, walking towards the sunset; Keefe smiled as he admired her. For some inexplicable reason, Sophie Foster fascinated him; she wasn’t like anyone he’d met before. There was just something about her, something he couldn’t quite name. Maybe it was her attitude. Maybe it was the way she chewed her lip when she was nervous. Or maybe it was how she smirked at him, pretty and smug, beautiful and deadly.

But Keefe couldn’t let her know that, it would go to her head. Once the painting dried he stashed it under his bed, his heart now thumping faster.

He didn’t know what, but something drew him to her without his consent. And Keefe couldn’t help wondering if he'd be in big trouble if he couldn’t draw back.

***

Sophie couldn’t believe she had to put up with Keefe Sencen for nearly an entire term. An entire term! She was prone to go insane if she spent more time with that kid. But somehow, she found herself (somewhat) enjoying their walks from Foxfire Academy to Keefe’s house.

His obnoxious voice interrupted their peaceful silence.

“If you really think about it,” Keefe started thoughtfully. “Mirrors can never break. They can only multiply.”

“And why did you feel the need to tell me that?”

“I have freedom of speech!”

“Not when everything you say is equivalent to shit.”

“Care to tell me where the first amendment states that?”

Sophie exhaled loudly through her nose, glaring viciously. Keefe stared back at her innocently, waiting for her reaction. “Screw it,” she muttered, rearing her arm back—in which she held her water bottle— and thumping him on the head. Yelping, he took a few steps away from her and frowned.

“Okay, that actually hurt. And you ruined my hair!”

“Sounds like a ‘you’ problem.” Sophie kept strolling on as Keef caught up to her.

“I could tell Ms. Clarette,” he taunted.

“You’ve got no alibis.” At Keefe’s soft ‘humph’, she added, “Suck it up buttercup, gotta get used to me if you’re gonna keep these sessions going.”

Keefe opened his mouth to say something, but stopped once he saw his house. Immediately, his expression turned serious and he took the lead. Sophie silently wondered why, every time, his mischievousness would vanish when he arrived home.

Keefe opened the door and beckoned her to enter. Sophie looked around for the third time at the rich red carpet and the grand spiral staircase. Keefe was just about to go upstairs when another man walked into the room. His face was all chiseled planes and sharp features, downward-turned lips and drawn-in brows. With his hands clasped behind his back, he stood up tall, regal, and vaguely intimidating.

“Father,” Keefe said stiffly. Sophie raised her eyebrows, hoping he’d glance over and look at her incredulous expression. Who said ‘father’ anymore? Was that still a thing?

“Son.” Keefe’s dad narrowed his eyes on Sophie. “Who’s this?”

“Sophie Foster. I’m her art tutor.”

“An art tutor? That’s worse than your pile of detention slips.” Scrunching up his nose, he eyed her up and down, then flicked his gaze back to his son. “Don’t fuck this up, at least.”

“Oh, this is hilarious! Getting a talk about fucking things up from the World’s Greatest Dad. Good joke.”

Keefe’s dad—Mr. Sencen, Sophie decided to refer to him as—gritted his teeth so loud she flinched. Smoke practically floated from his flared nostrils as he glowered at the two of them. Sophie held her breath.

“Just go,” he finally grumbled, storming off in the other direction with a wine glass full of red liquid. Sophie exhaled loudly and climbed up the stairs alongside Keefe with a questioning look.

“Yep, that’s Old Daddio in a nutshell for ya.”

“That’s great and all, but we’re doing our art session at my house next time. Your dad is seriously creepy. And what was that about? Detention slips and—“

“It’s nothing, forget about it.” Before she could ask anymore questions, he jogged up the next few steps and into his room, shutting it behind them. This time, both teenagers shoved the bookcase to the side in a joint effort—the first (and last) circumstance she would ever willingly work together with Keefe Sencen. When this term was over, she was going to leave him behind and never look back.

After all, pretty boys with curly hair and a mischievous grin always ended up being trouble.

Besides, she couldn’t stand him. His mere presence ignited her annoyance. Every time he showed up, she felt the irresistible urge to shove his own paintbrush down his throat. Of course, she couldn’t actually do it, but in her imagination it was pure satisfaction.

“Foster? Foster!”

Keefe stood at the doorway to his secret chamber. “C’mon.” Sighing, Sophie followed him in.

“Let’s do figures today. Silhouettes. They’re easy enough, so if you screw them up I’ll either be really disappointed or really impressed.”

“With you, it’s just the former.”

Sophie unconsciously leaned forward on her toes, expecting an offended retort. Yet Keefe’s expression became more closed off; hurt, even, but only for a moment. He wiped the emotion off his face, leaving behind an empty smile, and he didn’t look her way while he set up another canvas. Frowning, she silently rolled up her sleeves and picked up a paintbrush, glancing at Keefe through her lashes.

He didn’t glance back.

Halfway through drawing a silhouette figure (Sophie had drawn the head, some hair, and the chest), she turned abruptly to face her tutor, who was immersed in his art with deep concentration. Although Keefe was a pain in the ass, everyone had feelings. And no one deserved to feel the worst of them.

“Hey, uh, sorry if I crossed any lines earlier?” It came out like a question, and Sophie immediately wished she could rephrase it.

When Keefe turned towards her, his easy grin had returned, nothing like the blank expression he’d had on before. He searched her eyes like a diver in the depths of an ocean.

“No problemo. You just made me think about some stuff, that’s all.”

“Okay, good.” Sophie painted the rest of the torso and the hands. When she heard snickers from next to her she glared at him, challenging him to say one offensive thing about her silhouette.

“That looks more like a pig than a lady,” he wheezed, slapping his knee. Sophie harrumphed; sure, the woman’s torso had been a little messed up, but everyone makes mistakes, right?

As if he could read her mind, Keefe added, “‘Small mistake’? Oh please, more like elephant-sized!”

“Be quiet, Sencen,” she shot back.

“Freedom of speech, remember?”

#keefe sencen #kotlc keefe #team foster keefe #sophie x keefe #sophie foster #kotlc sophie #kotlc #kotlc fanart #romance #enemies to friends to lovers (??)#so scarlet (it was maroon)

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gay-otlc · 3 years

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Perfect (Keefitz)

Summary: And yet... he can't shake the feeling that, if he wasn't a Vacker, if he wasn't stuck in the cage of perfection... he would love to be with Keefe.

That didn't matter. Whether he likes it or not, Fitz is in his cage of perfection, so he can't want Keefe.

He can't. Because he's perfect.

(Alternatively: 4.5K words of Keefitz angst and about 100 of Keefitz fl*ff)

Trigger warnings: Internalized homophobia, cursing

Words: 4352

(Read on AO3)

Fitz Vacker is perfect.

His friends call him Wonderboy, and that's for a reason. He knows they're making fun of him when they say it, but he can't help but feel the smallest glimmer of pride when he hears the nickname. Maybe a bit more than that. Yes, people are making fun of him for being perfect. That still means they see him as being perfect.

And that's good. That's exactly how he wants it to be.

No, he corrects himself- not how he wants it to be. How it is. People don't just see him as perfect- he is perfect. (Or so he tells himself. But is he, is he really perfect? Or is he just lying, trying to convince himself. Convince everyone else.) Wonderboy is at the top of his class. He's passable at Base Quest and actually quite good at Bramble. Even though his father doesn't approve of the hobby, his talent at baking is undeniable. Every girl at Foxfire is in agreement that he's handsome, with bronze skin, teal eyes, and a smile that makes all of them swoon.

(He doesn't care how many girls like him. He's never liked any of them.)

And Sophie. He's a key member of the Black Swan, and he's Sophie's cognate. They're cognates. And everyone expects them to be a couple.

He's supposed to love her. He can't.

They would be a perfect couple, if only he could feel what he was supposed to.

He can't.

The point is, Fitz is perfect. He's sunshine, blue skies. Flawless. Golden.

Fitz Vacker is perfect. And he can't shake the feeling that perfection is a cage.

---

Keefe Sencen is anything but perfect.

It's obvious from the very moment they meet. Keefe is too loud, too energetic, too obnoxious. He barely pays any attention in his classes and lands in detention every other day. Taking anything seriously seems to be impossible for him. Even his appearance, with messed up hair and the way he "forgets" his cape, reflect on his personality.

Alden disapproves immediately. Keefe would never be a good influence for Fitz, could get him in trouble, damage his reputation. Blah, blah, blah. He does make sense, too; Fitz is a Vacker, and he's the golden boy, so he can only be surrounded by the best. Which likely doesn't include Keefe. But after one conversation with that boy, he finds himself inviting him over to Everglen after school.

After that, they're inseparable, no matter what Alden says.

And Keefe is still far from perfect. He hides everything in jokes and spends too much time obviously crushing on Sophie. (A fact that gives Fitz a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. He isn't sure why; maybe it would be weird if two of his best friends started dating?) Keefe's mom is part of the Neverseen and the council banished him to Exillium and he makes reckless decisions.

Odds are, Keefe is a ticking time bomb, and Fitz needs to get away. That's what his brain tells him to do. Then, Keefe tells him Lord Cassius's theory on head and heart emotions, and something clicks. In his head, he wants Keefe gone. In his heart, he needs Keefe to stay.

Shit, he thinks.

Keefe is anything but perfect. He's a hurricane, a natural disaster. Flawed. Broken glass.

Keefe Sencen is anything but perfect. And Fitz cares about Keefe way to much to ever let it come between them. Shit.

---

Fitz nearly dies once, a time most people have forgotten about. He remembers it perfectly.

It's soon after he, Sophie, Dex, Biana, and... Keefe, though Fitz doesn't yet know why he has the ellipses, run away to join the Black Swan in Allavuterre. When they break into Exile to visit Prentice, and the Council comes to stop them. It's the most stupid way to nearly die, but a giant bug stabs Fitz. An arthopleura, eight feet tall and full of poison, stabs him.

And he nearly dies.

Even though he doesn't have a photographic memory, the time plays out perfectly in his mind- everything suddenly aches, he can barely breathe and the world swims before his eyes. His brain feels foggy, clouded by the poison. Through the fog, he can only think of one thing. A name, that he clings to like a lifeline.

And it should be Sophie's name. It should be Sophie's name. He's usually perfect enough to keep control of his thoughts, make sure he wants the right thing and doesn't spend too much time ever longing for the wrong thing.

In his poisoned state, that sort of control is gone, and all he can think of is what he actually wants.

Keefe.

The name echoes in his mind, over and over. When he feels himself only at his last point of consciousness, Keefe's name is still repeating, but he doesn't remember what it means.

Who's Keefe? he thinks.

A memory tickles at the back of his mind. Keefe... he... I... I think I'm in love with him.

He gives into the poison, consciousness gone.

---

When he wakes up, his head still feels foggy and slow. Keefe's name is still there, and it doesn't take long for the rest of Fitz's memories to come slotting into place. I think I'm in love with him.

Where the fuck had that thought come from?

Fitz isn't in love with Keefe. He can't be. He isn't. Fitz is the perfect Vacker, the golden boy. He's going to marry someone on his match list that his father approves of, and then he's going to further the Vacker family name and not dishonor generations of Vackers before him. He'll continue being perfect, something that can't happen if he loves Keefe. Because Keefe is so far from perfect, nothing like anyone those generations of Vackers want him to marry. He's chaotic and disobedient and, well, a boy.

If Fitz is to be perfect, he can't like Keefe.

And he will be perfect.

No, he is.

---

His friends come in, full of concerns and well wishes. Keefe comes in carrying Mr. Snuggles, and thought he's laughing at Fitz, all Fitz can think about is how cute his laugh is, how Keefe hasn't smiled in so long and he's so happy that Keefe is happy. Keefe lights up Fitz's world, and after a bug-induced realization, Fitz notices that Keefe is... well, really hot.

Don't think about that.

Eventually, the rest of his friends leave, and Livvy gives him various elixirs. Della and Biana stay behind, but eventually, Livvy and Della have to talk about something, and he's left alone with Biana.

Biana smirks. "Does Fitzy have a crush?"

His face burns. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Please," she scoffs. "You've been making heart eyes ever since our friends came in. Spill."

"I don't- I'm not-"

"Fitz, you're a terrible liar. Come on, just admit you like Sophie."

Sophie. Yes, he likes Sophie. Sophie is the Moonlark, the most powerful elf; just who the perfect Vacker boy should like. She's pretty, and she's a girl, and she's just as perfect as he is. They're meant to be together.

---

"Yes," he lies. "Fine. I like Sophie. I realized it after almost dying. Happy now?"

"Very."

"But don't... don't tell her." Fitz knows that Sophie has a crush on him; no matter how hard she tries to keep it a secret, it's fairly obvious. He doesn't want her thinking that he likes her, though, because then they'd have to date, and he wouldn't like her. Well, he likes her a lot, but not like that. He likes her enough to not lead her on like that.

Biana gives him a strange look. "You know she likes you, right?"

Shit. Now he has to think of a lie, and as Biana pointed out, he's not good at lying. "I'm... I don't really want a relationship right now. While we're dealing with the Neverseen and all that. I kind of just want to wait, and I'm worried Sophie will take that as I don't like her."

He feels Biana's eyes on him for a long time, but she finally nods. "Makes sense. I'm gonna go... get some sleep, Fitz."

When she leaves, he feels like he can finally exhale. He was nearly caught with a crush on Keefe Sencen, of all people. He managed to lie and divert the attention to Sophie... but that was fucking hard.

It shouldn't be hard. He should forget all about Keefe right now, before he falls in deeper, and like Sophie instead. That's what he has to do, to be perfect again.

And yet... he can't shake the feeling that, if he wasn't a Vacker, if he wasn't stuck in the cage of perfection... he would love to be with Keefe.

That didn't matter. Whether he likes it or not, Fitz is in his cage of perfection, so he can't want Keefe.

He can't. Because he's perfect.

---

As the world continues on, with a mess of Neverseen attacks and near death experiences and drama with their friends, Keefe Sencen never fucking leaves Fitz's head. His stupid smirk and stupid Hair and stupid, stupidly imperfect beauty. He's so stupidly funny and caring and brilliant, and oh, Fitz is so stupidly in love.

It's infuriating.

And yes, he's well aware it's kind of an asshole move, but ever since he recovered from the bug stabbing incident and the feelings for Keefe didn't go away, he's been avoiding him. Every second he spends with Keefe makes him fall even deeper in love. And as he falls deeper in love, he comes closer and closer to falling off his throne.

He can't risk that.

Even strained conversations are difficult. Fitz feels something he can't name, a combination of fury and frustration and love bubbling up in his chest, and he sometimes thinks he'll explode if he doesn't scream it. I'm in love with Keefe. I'm in love with Keefe.

But he can't scream it. So he'll just have to stay away.

Keefe thinks he's jealous, that he and Sophie have something going on, because he thinks Fitz likes Sophie. Fitz is jealous whenever Keefe and Sophie are together, it's true. He wishes he were jealous of Keefe. It's safer to have him believe that. Safer to stay away.

It kills him.

But he can't have both Keefe and perfection, and he's chosen perfection.

---

The perfection he wants (this isn't what he wants, he wants Keefe, he's never wanted this) comes in the form of Sophie Elizabeth Foster and a walk through Everglen. They're discussing matchmaking, dangerous territory- and then the danger becomes real, tipping Fitz into the deep end of a conversation he'd rather avoid.

Sophie starts crying. He's not an idiot; he knows why.

Because she thinks he'll never like her.

(And she's right. He can't like her. He can't like girls.)

Before he can think it through, the words are out of his mouth: "I want it to be you," he blurts. "I want it to be you. On my match list." It's not a lie. He wants her on his match list, and him to be on hers, so they can be matched, and together... and, well, married, as horrifying as that thought is. Married to Sophie. Together for eternity.

(That sounds like a nightmare. He loves her, but not like that. The mere thought of spending eternity together feels like he's already trapped. Caged within perfection.)

He wants to want Sophie like that. And that means he wants her, right?

(He wants Keefe.)

This is what he wants, he reminds himself, as he leans towards her, ready to kiss. He'd never admit it to anyone, but when they're interrupted by Silveny, he's overwhelmingly relieved.

No he isn't.

This is what he wants.

---

He's relieved again when he and Sophie break up. And terrified. She was his safety net, and now, when he falls for Keefe, nothing is going to catch him. Then, he regrets feeling any bit of relief- what kind of boyfriend does that make him?

A gay one.

That's what he is, isn't he? He's not perfect. He's gay. And he thought it would go away. It hasn't. It isn't going to. He's gay, he's gay for Keefe Sencen, and he'll never be perfect. Never be fucking perfect. Unless he pushes the feelings down until he forgets about them. Unless he never tells anyone. Unless he bites his tongue and marries a woman and does everything exactly right. Never slips up. Convinces himself, and everyone else, that he's... normal.

Not just normal.

Perfect.

Fucking perfect.

His plans to repress all Keefe-related emotions fails horribly within a few days. Keefe, the fucking idiot, manages to get himself in a coma, and now Fitz doesn't know whether he'll wake up, and dammit, even ignoring Keefe was better than this.

He just wants Keefe back, even if it'll be harder to be perfect.

---

The universe rewards him, the time he spends by Keefe's bedside whispering I'll stay away from him, I won't fall in love, I'll forget all about him, if he can stay alive works, or maybe it was just luck. Either way, Keefe is awake.

At first, he has no idea what to feel. Overwhelmingly happy, for one. It's hard to push that down.

He's your best friend. It's normal to feel happy about your best friend not dying. It's fine. This is fine. You're fine.

You're still perfect.

Then, everything spirals very quickly, and it turns out Keefe's mother- shit, Fitz hates her- has managed to ruin everything once again. Fantastic. Now Keefe is scared of himself, and if Fitz is being honest, he's a little scared... but then again, he was always scared of Keefe, wasn't he? Scared of how his laugh made Fitz feel like he'd won a million lusters and how he could be so imperfect yet so wonderful and how sometimes, Fitz thought maybe, it'd be worth it to not be perfect, as long as they could be together.

And scared of how he can't stop thinking about Keefe, so he buys flowers- fucking flowers- and goes to visit him at Elwin's house.

Elwin opens the door. He glances at Fitz, then the flowers, then Fitz again, and smiles knowingly. Fitz wants to shrink into a hole, knowing that Elwin knows- or even suspects- his secret, that he's so far from perfect. Elwin doesn't think of it as a bad thing, though. It's still terrifying. "Keefe is in his room," he says. Fitz nods, not trusting his voice, and walks up the stairs.

---

Keefe opens the door. "Elwin, I said I'd- you're not Elwin."

"Not unless something very confusing just happened, no," Fitz agrees.

"What are you doing here?"

Fitz swallows. "I came to check on you," he says. Then he holds out the flowers. "And to give you these." Keefe stares at the flowers for a long time, long enough to make Fitz extremely uneasy. Oh why did I do this, this was so stupid, Keefe thinks it's stupid, it obviously is, and now Elwin knows, or at least suspects, and maybe Keefe suspects too, and why am I such a fucking idiot? But Keefe takes the flowers eventually.

"Thanks."

The word is clipped, not particularly grateful, but Fitz lets his eyes meet Keefe's and he seems sincere. "No problem." Awkwardly, he shuffles his feet. "How are you?"

"I'm... I'm alright, I guess."

"You guess?"

"I don't really want to talk about it, if that's okay." When Fitz nods, Keefe gives a small smile. "How about you? I heard you and Foster broke up."

Truth be told, Fitz had nearly forgotten about that, which didn't bode well for his whole Yes, I definitely like girls act he was trying to do. "I'm... I think it was the right decision for us. Can I tell you a secret?" he blurts, the last sentence not planned. He hopes Keefe will say no, but of course he says yes, so Fitz swallows. "I don't think I ever liked her, really. I mean, I like her a lot. But not like that. Never like that. I've never liked a girl like that."

Instantly, Fitz regrets specifying a girl, but that was the only way to keep it truthful. Despite that, he regrets not lying as he watches Keefe connect the dots. "You like me, don't you?" Before Fitz can say anything, really even register the question, Keefe continues "It's not bad if you do. In fact, it's good, because I... I like you. A lot. Like that. So it's okay to tell me if you like me. And I promise I won't tell anyone unless you're alright with it."

Fitz nods. Almost in a whisper, he answers "I like you. I... I really like you, so much, so much it physically aches, but Keefe, I can't. You know I can't."

A look Fitz can't quite decipher comes over Keefe, a mixture of pain and anger and joy and... determination. "Tell me if you want me to stop," he whispers, before cupping Fitz's face. Even before their lips touch, Fitz knows it's so unlike the times he and Sophie almost kissed. This time, it feels exactly right.

It feels perfect.

That word, that fucking word, draws Fitz back abruptly away. "I can't," he repeats, taking a step back towards the door. Twists the doorknob. "I can't. I'm sorry, Keefe, but I can't."

Keefe nods. "I know. You have to be perfect." He doesn't sound angry; just resigned.

"I have to be perfect," Fitz agrees, and he leaves.

---

Once again, the world continues on. Keefe slowly begins trusting himself around other people again. Fitz still doesn't trust himself around Keefe. If they're too close for too long, he thinks he might just disregard everything and kiss him again. He thought it was hard before, but after he knows who fucking wonderful it is to kiss Keefe, it's nearly impossible. Keefe is like a drug, and Fitz has to do everything he can not to relapse.

So he stays away.

They fight the Neverseen a few more times. Nearly die once or twice. Elwin basically adopts Keefe. He and Sophie work to rebuild their trust as cognates, but it's hard, because now he's keeping such a big secret.

I never liked you.

I don't like girls.

I'm gay.

I like Keefe.

I kissed Keefe once.

He can't tell her any of that. Can't tell anyone. Keefe is the only person who knows, and even that is far too many people. He has to trust that Keefe won't tell anyone- though Keefe doesn't have as much to lose from it, it can't be good for him either. And Sophie... she's a really good friend, but he still... he can't. He just can't.

Even as their friendship repairs itself, they never date again. He's glad.

And disappointed.

Because he really needs a safety net, now more than ever.

---

Alden convinces him to get a match list, one without Sophie on it. One with a hundred girls, each one of them someone he can never love. Maybe he'll find one he likes well enough. And he can pretend to love her until he's convinced everyone, including himself. A new safety net.

A new mask of perfection.

He throws a Winnowing Gala then, mostly for the food. Unfortunately, he doesn't get to just eat the whole time. He has to dance with people, talk to them, hope to find some sort of spark. It never comes, of course. When he first met Keefe first, he knew that boy would be bad for him, but he couldn't stay away. Every moment talking to him felt like electricity. This is just... dull.

It's nearly torture.

Also, it's what the rest of his life is going to be like.

Fitz already knew perfection was a cage. He chose the cage instead of Keefe. Now he's living with the consequences. This was his choice, and he made his choice, but it's still... so hard. It feels like he's suffocating.

---

"I need some fresh air," he chokes out to the girl he's dancing with now. He can't even remember her name. She's nice, but nothing like Keefe. All of these girls blend together, because none of them are Keefe, and he's too focused on surviving the next few hours to concentrate on any of them.

Without waiting to here her response, he stumbles outside.

"Fitz?" a voice asks. He groans. Keefe. Why did it have to be Keefe?

"What the hell are you doing here?"

"It's nice to see you too. I came to pine as you chose a girl to marry, of course. Didn't expect you to come outside."

Fitz groans, burying his head in his hands. "Sorry to snap at you. I just..."

"You hate this. You hate this so much."

"How do you know?"

"Empath. Also, I know you," Keefe says. Fitz sighs. They fall silent for a long time, but finally, Keefe speaks again. "I still... I can't stop thinking about the kiss. It feels like forever ago, and I still sometimes feel your lips on mine like some sort of phantom. All I can do is think about kissing you again. I really want to kiss you again. I... I really want you." He takes a breath, then resumes, cutting off whatever Fitz was about to say. "But I know. You can't. I understand."

"I... it doesn't feel like I can. At all. But..." Fitz took a deep breath, gesturing at Everglen. "I can't do this either. I can't keep doing this, pretending to be perfect."

Keefe tilted his head to the side. "Fitz?"

"I'm done pretending," Fitz said, and he kissed Keefe once again.

Perfect.

---

When they finally separate, Keefe's ice blue eyes are wide, pupils dilated. "That was... incredible." He touches his fingers to his lips, never taking his eyes off Fitz. Fitz can't see himself, but he's sure he looks just as lovestruck. He's wanted this for years, and finally, finally...

"I want to tell people," Fitz says, his own voice sounding foreign to his ears. He didn't plan to say that, but repeats it. "I want to tell people about... about us."

"You know there's no going back after that," Keefe says, the beautiful smile on his face widening anyway.

Fitz nods. "I know. I don't want to go back. I told you, I'm done pretending."

"Are you sure?"

"I'm sure." He pauses. "Unless you don't want to?"

After a quick kiss that makes little fireworks go off in Fitz's head, he smiles again and says "No, I want to. Do you know what you're going to say?" Fitz shakes his head. "Just making it up as you go along. That works. Honestly, the best way to do things. Can I come in with you?" In response, Fitz takes Keefe's hand in his and squeezes it. "Great. Let's go."

With every step Fitz takes, he knows his time being perfect is running out. He's never been happier.

---

"I want to thank you all for coming tonight," Fitz says, waiting for the room to fall silent from the talking and laughing and music. While he waits, his eyes meet Keefe's. His boyfriend's. Keefe smiles, and he gives a tentative smile in return. His stomach flips with anxiety, and doubts of Do I really want to do this? start to creep back in. He briefly closes his eyes and lets the memory of the kiss wash over him, and it's the only thing to get them to go away.

Distantly, he hears a girl whisper-scream "Is he about to propose to someone?"

He clears his throat and continues. "I've really enjoyed getting to speak of all of you and get to know you. Unfortunately..." he swallows. "None of you... my perfect match. There's nothing wrong with any of you, and if I could be attracted to any of you, I would have some good options to choose from. But... I'm not attracted to girls. Any girls. At all."

Behind him, he hears his father hissing "Fitz, what are you doing?"

"Let him finish," his mom murmurs, voice low.

After letting his eyes drift back to Keefe, he takes a deep breath and blurts it out to the entire room. It's been bubbling up in him for so long, with no one knowing, and by tomorrow, everyone in the Lost Cities will know. That's terrifying. But strangely liberating. No more pretending. "I'm gay."

"Fitzroy," his father snaps, instantly. "Stop talking at once."

"No."

"Fitzroy Avery Vacker-"

"No," Fitz repeats, meeting Alden's eyes and ignoring every voice of wisdom telling him to look away. "No. I'm done pretending. And I'm done being perfect. I'm gay, and I'm in love with Keefe, and you're just going to have to fucking deal with that."

---

Without waiting for a response, he turns and walks over to Keefe, collapsing into a hug. "I'm proud of you," he hears in a whisper.

"That was terrifying," he breathes.

"I know. But it's going to be okay."

Fitz tangles his hands in Keefe's stupidly beautiful hair and meets their lips in another earth shattering kiss. "I love you."

"I love you too, Wonderboy."

Things won't ever be perfect again. Alden and Della divorce, and though neither of them says it, Fitz knows it's his fault. Keefe's father is furious, which he knows upsets Keefe even though he lives with Elwin now. Some elves are supportive, and some even come out after Fitz- including Sophie and Biana, who have apparently been dating for months- but other elves whisper about the gay Vacker boy, and how unfortunate it is for the family. The Council has been arguing for months about whether or not Fitz should be allowed to be matched with Keefe. Fighting the Neverseen is still a necessity, and they keep getting hurt.

Things won't ever be perfect again. Fitz won't be "perfect" again.

But it doesn't matter whether he's perfect. He's happy.

#simone types things #keefitz #kotlc #fitz vacker #divorce alden vacker 2021 #cursing tw #internalized homophobia tw #shai's writing

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juuls · 4 years

Text

Juulna’s ‘Hold Onto Your Sanity’ Fic, Book, and Music Recs for the 2020 Dumpster Fire... Part 3!

So you just crash-landed behind enemy lines in a war you know barely anything about except that your role seems infinitesimal and insignificant, and dumped into a year, 2020, that already seems fifteen years too long.

Before you drown your sorrows in some fantastic scotch or wine coolers for days (or weeks)… I have a proposal.

That you step back from the flames, tune things out for a bit, and try to forget about the outside world for a while (but don’t forget to vote or I will be very sad at you!).

These fics are meant to take you out of your head (I’m including more plot/story-minded fics than PWP) for the next few weeks or months as the world goes to hell (even more) but of course there are some bits of solid angst in these as there is wont to be in many a fic. Check the tags, read responsibly, don’t like-don’t read, ship and let ship, and please do leave a kudos and maybe even a comment! :)

This is PART THREE.

Check out here for Part One and most of the Marvel fic recs, along with a selection of book recs too. :)

And here’s Part Two, which has the bulk of my Star Wars and Game of Thrones recs, along with Spotify playlists!

Part Three is this one here, all about the Potterverse.

(Not yet complete) Here’s Part Four, filled with even more shippy goodness from all over the Star Trek universe. So. Many. Ships. :D

(Not yet complete) Part Five is Witcher, Man From UNCLE, Stargate: Atlantis and SG-1, Sherlock, Hannibal, and Doctor Who.

(Not yet complete) Part Six will probably be all for my newfound love of Supergirl, along with some Game of Thrones and Marvel ships I skipped, because I gotta stop somewhere with all these recommendations or I’ll be at it forever. Seriously, how much of this stuff have I read!?

But I think we all need some distractions from the world these days, eh? Or something to console us other than internet rage and a barrel of ice cream and/or hard alcohol.

Potterverse

I’ve chosen to pick fics (mostly) off of AO3 for their easy reading access, though HP fics’ golden years were on sites like fanfiction.net and other independent archives like Sycophanthex and others which have closed their doors over the years, sadly. Some of these fics date back to almost 20 years old, or more, amazingly!

For fics on fanfiction.net, I highly recommend using this link (FicSave) to epub/mobi converter rather than dealing with the frustrating app. It functions like AO3′s built-in download button.

SSHG/Sevmione

Rec assistance by @perrydowning

Second Life by Lariope

Phantom of Hogwarts by Good_Witch

Romancing the War by Pubella

The Poison Garden by turtle_wexler @turtlewexlerwrites

A Light in the Fog by turtle_wexler

Pride of Time by AnubisAnkh

The Savage by MagdatheMagpie

Snape’s Story by Tbird1965

Recognition by jezzie (krith)

Tedium of Time by oneredshoe

Tango by Desert_Sea

Sense and Insensibility by Desert_Sea

Time Mutable Immutable by Grooot

The Twenty by Leyna Rountree

For the Only Hope by ausland @run-with-me-to-the-sea

Bundle of Joy by LadyTuesday

Our Hands Tied by multilingualism

Choose Something Like A Star by TeddyRadiator

Mistress of the Stacks by Ms_Anthrop

A Derailed Train of Thought by Ms_Anthrop

Antiquities by stormcorona

Watch Over Me by @snapeslittleblackbuttons

Dropped Down into the Unknown by @q-drew

Delicate Transitions by @morbidmuch

Lay Me Low by TeddyRadiator

The Savage by MagdatheMagpie

Another Dream by @dragoon811

A Chance For Happiness by @corvusdraconis

Breath of the Nundu by corvusdraconis, Dragon_and_the_Rose

Just to Be by Amarti @amarti-writes-stuff

Hinge of Fate by Ramos

Forged in Flames by @mswhich

Days in the Sun by bluespring864

Making sure the boy who lived, actually does by Hold_en @hold-enwrites

The Problem With Purity by Phoenix.Writing

One Step Forward, Two Decades Back by corvusdraconis

The Headmaster’s Wife by Mrs_HH @propertyofseverustsnape

The Master, the Warden, the Headmaster, and the Deputy by mak5258

Cloak of Courage by Wendynat

Hermione Granger and the Intended Vessels by ShawnaCanon

Augury and Ardor by SnapeySnax

Before the Dawn by snarkyroxy

The Love You Take by Subversa

His Draught of Delicate Poison by Subversa

and sooooo many more if you want them just ask, this is both mine and Perry’s oldest ship lol

Gramander (Original Graves x Newt)

A Gilded Cage is Still a Cage by Anonymous

take a deep breath (and let it go) by lincesque @tumbloncat

Roar by @elenothar

Matchmaker, Matchmaker by @prosodiical

Dearly Beloved by prosodiical

Basic Instincts by @manic-intent

Promised by Miss_Lv

Plan G by Aate

Heat of the Chase by argentoswan @wannahearaboutmycats

Newt Scamander’s Guide to Getting Things Done by arthureameslove

Against all Odds by Maril

Where I Belong by Mishafied

He Wants To Say, “I Love You, Nothing Can Hurt You” by @obsidionwingsofmidnight

Arranged by Miss_Lv

death of a bachelor by gudetama (elementary)

The Graves Identity by Mishafied

you make me feel this way somehow by gudetama (elementary)

The Nature of the Beast by AntiGravitas @absolutelynogravitaswhatsoever

The Knights, the Newt, and the Rose by @yinyangswings

The Wizard’s Cat by @natecchi

The Color of Boom by gypsiangel

Signalling Theory: Blue Coat by @obaewankenope

Flame by @esamastation

And The Tag Read Simply: “Pretty” by @funkzpiel

Aren’t You Gonna Arrest Me, Officer? by JoyBurd

a little bit lost by shortbread @shortbread-fanfiction

Dramione

Rec assistance by @cuthian

Seven Times by kerri240879

Her Beauty and the Moonlight by BrilliantLady

The Fallout by everythursday (orphaned and only available on AO3 now, but complete)

The Eagle’s Nest by HeartOfAspen

Turncoat by elizaye @imnotleavinherewithoutyou

The Virgin Conundrum by AkashaTheKitty @akashathekitty

Bad Faith by Morrighan256

Isolation by bexchan @bex-chan-blog

The Serpent, the Witch, and the Broom Closet by bitchywitchy

Silencio by AkashaTheKitty

All You Want by senlinyu @senlinyu

Static by galfoy @heymanticore

What the Room Requires by Alydia Rackham

And We All Fall Down by @rumaan

Ambition’s End by Hanako A

Wait and Hope by mightbewriting @mightbewriting

Rewriting Destiny by mayawrites95 (mayarox95)

Chronos Historia by In_Dreams @indreamsink

A Muggle-born Magic by Musyc @willhavetheirtrinkets

Hunted by Bex-chan

A Second Look by @riverwriter

The Nietzsche Classes by Beringae

This Too, Is Sacred by HeartOfAspen

Bite First, Ask Questions Later by Daredevilsinthedetails, Kaylessi

Nocturnus by In_Dreams @indreamsink

Broken by @inadaze22

The Green Girl by Colubrina

Lady of the Lake by Colubrina

Rebuilding by Colubrina (really just anything written by @colubrina)

Presque Toujours Pur by @shayalonnie

Can’t Change the Way I Am by @nauticalparamour

Law and Marriage by DragonGrin (formerly TeenTypist)

The Tower Window by @xodramaqueenox

Unexpected by Emara88

Something Old, Something New by Kate Dessi

Suppressed Emotions by hopelesslydevoted.xx

Silver Blood by @freyaishtar

When the Day Met the Night by @bex-la-get

Harmony

A Marauder’s Plan by CatsAreCool (Rachel500)

A Step to the Right by CatsAreCool (Rachel500)

Eighth by lorien829

The Catalyst by lorien829

Harry Potter and the Isle of Mists by lorien829

Knife’s Edge by Celtic55

The Black Book by mosteveryonesmad

Awakening by SweetShireen

The Sword and the Snake by bartonfink1974

Dispelling the Silence by Indygodusk

One Year Later: Return to Hogwarts by Twilight’s Inferno

DraHarmony

Fourteen Thousand Galleons by @frumpologist

The Invitation by hot_elf @hot-elf

Love Love Love by MissELY @misselylux

Changing Scenery by aethling

East of Eden by msmerlin @ms-merlinblack

Turn Back Time by Dazeventura6

Foxfire by @setissma

Come Together by @nuclearnik

The Soul of the Wolves by LR_Earl @fanficbylrearl

Running From Lions by tryslora @tryslora

An Unexpected Family by ladyroxanne21

The Prophecies by jamcreynolds

Drarhinny

Reconstruction by @aldersprig

Fell From the Sky by BrandonStrayne @brandonstrayne (I really love this one, and not just as a Canadian.)

Demons From the Past by pottermum

Drarry

Rec assistance by @newtypeshadow

Rarely Pure and Never Simple by birdsofshore

Aural Gratification by birdsofshore

Lost Among and Falling by @bafflinghaze

The Corruption Sequence series by beren @berenwrites

Sentinel ‘verse series by elyssblair @elyssblair-blog

Date Blindness by dysonrules

Starts With a Spin by Maxine @serasarahhhh

Temptation on the Warfront by alizarincrimson

Paradigm by dysonrules

Here’s The Pencil, Make It Happen by ignatiustrout

Draco Sodding Malfoy by Shewhxmustnxtbenamed @shewhomustnotbenamed

Pieces of What by Jadwiga

Found, Not Lost by inspiration_assaulted

Shared Detention by DadIWriteGayPorn

Dirty Little Secret by Writcraft @writcraft

19 Years by shilo1364 @whimsicaldragonette

Morning Suns & Coffee Runs by laugh_a_latte @queer-coffee

Reus Una by purplepen76

Between Ink and Blood by Candamira

Ginmione

Distractions by @morningsound15

Cissamione

(This seems like it’s a bit cracky, but there’s some good ones, I promise! I sorta stumbled ass-backwards into this ship but really enjoy some of them.)

One Step Left by Cysteine @cysteine

Extinction by @rubikanon

Blinding Light by @16-pennies

Somebody Loved by beforeyouspeak

...

There. This is much better, isn’t it?

So my challenge to you, if your world is falling, burning down around you in flames... is this:

...if you feel yourself getting anxious or depressed, whether from the news or being cooped up in isolation or bored or on the verge of tearing your hair out or jumping off that roof or grabbing something to go after the dictator-of-the-week.... pause, take a breath, open up this rec list, close your eyes and pick something, and let chance take you somewhere hopefully far away. Let yourself be transported.

Oh, and don’t click on this Google Drive link. Really, there’s not 30+ GB of data on that Drive I’m sharing. Shame. There totally aren’t tens of thousands of books, as many audiobooks as could fit, and a large collection of fanfiction downloaded from AO3 in there. (Also, not all fics have been shared to that folder yet; I’m working on it a little at a time as I download more.)

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haltandcatchfiretothemax · 3 years

Text

FEMSLASH FEBRUARY 2021 #20: In which Cameron and Donna talk over a movie

[CN: spoilers for Gia (1998); adult women talking about sex and their sex lives]

Since it was well-known amongst their friends just how easy it was to get Donna to invite people over, Risa unashamedly telephoned her, on a Sunday afternoon, to ask her to host a watch party for the premiere of Gia. Donna, taking the call in the kitchen, agreed immediately, and wasted no time in contacting Dr. Katie Herman, and then when Haley heard about the party, she invited herself and Vanessa. They gathered at 7pm on January 31 of 1998 in Donna’s media room.

Cameron, of course, had been the very first invite, though she had declined. “Uh, as uplifting as watching a movie that inevitably ends with a tragic death due to AIDS complications with the girls sounds, I have plans. Bos and I are going out.”

“Oh,” Donna had pouted. “Well, maybe we can watch it another time, then! Just the two of us?” When Cameron looked up from the copy of Scientific American she’d been skimming through to side-eyed her from across the kitchen island, mug of coffee in hand, Donna wheedled, “Oh come on! It’s about a hot gay woman! Played by a hot, potentially gay woman!” When Cameron gave her another look, Donna crossed her arms over her chest and said, “According to Risa, there are rumors. Something involving an on-set romance during the making of a movie called Foxfire.”

Cameron looked back down at her magazine. “It is so weird to me that they let a gay woman be a hugely successful supermodel. Or not weird, just, I don’t know.” Irritated, she flipped a page, and then added, “I don’t really wanna be interested in something just because it’s about someone gay. But also, like, sure I am? It’s, stupid.”

With a forlorn little shrug, Donna said, “You’re right, it’s stupid. Might as well use it as an excuse to have your friends over and have fun with it then, right?”

“Again, I feel like ‘fun’ isn’t the word I’d use for watching a tragic story of addiction and terminal illness, but, sure,” Cameron said.

Despite her misgivings, Cameron happily helped Donna get the house ready that day, making sure that the spare rooms and trailer were all habitable for potential overnight guests, as she always did before they had company. When Bos came to pick her up at 4, he came in for a while, and had some coffee with Donna, and then when they were ready to be on their way, Cameron kissed Donna and wished her a nice time with their friends and their sad movie.

Cameron and Bos went to the local shopping mall for a stroll and some browsing at a large chain retailer of books, where neither of them found anything, and then to their favorite diner, where they sat for a long time after they had their burgers and fries and slices of chocolate peanut butter pie, talking about Bos’s most recent fishing trip, and how things were at Phoenix, and how Haley and Joanie and Bos’s grandson and step-grandchildren were doing.

Cameron returned around 8:30, and went straight to the media room to see how the watch party was going. From the sound of it, it was in full swing, Cameron could hear cheering and shouting from the hallway. She went into the room, about to say, ‘Hey, guys,’ only to be distracted by the television screen, on which Angelina Jolie had just walked out into the hallway, wearing nothing but a bemused expression. There was a full length shot from behind of her entire, naked body, and then a waist up shot of her from the front, as she tried to talk to another character. Utterly beguiled by Angelina Jolie’s extremely bare, extremely full breasts, Cameron audibly said, “…whoa.”

Everyone laughed (and Vanessa deadpanned, “I mean, we were all thinking it, right?”), which made Cameron blush slightly.

“Hey! You’re back!” Donna said, smiling brightly. “Wanna join us?”

Face still pink, Cameron said, “No, no I’m good, thanks! I think I’m just gonna go get my pajamas on!” They laughed more, and Cameron said, “I’ll see you all later, after the movie? Okay cool bye!” She hurried up to the bedroom, where Licorice the cat was hiding from the unexpected invasion of unfamiliar humans.

Three and a half hours later, after the movie had ended, and they’d all discussed their reactions, questions, and critiques of it over hot chocolate, and Cameron and Donna had thanked everyone and shown them out, Donna went up to the bedroom (Licorice was still there, napping on their bed), but Cameron wasn’t there. She brushed her teeth, washed her face, changed into her pajamas, and then went back down to the kitchen, and then to the media room, where she found Cameron, box of Good’n’Plentys in hand, watching the midnight re-airing of the movie.

“Couldn’t resist after all, then?” Donna said.

Cameron literally jumped, sending candy flying. “Jesus, Donna!”

“Want some company?” Donna offered.

“If you really wanna watch it again, I guess, sure,” Cameron said, trying to collect all of the licorice bits that had fallen into her lap. Donna sat down, getting as close to Cameron as she comfortably could, and crossed her legs underneath her. Aggrieved, Cameron complained, “The stuff with the parents? Depressing.”

“Yeah,” Donna agreed. “In some ways she kinda reminds me of someone, though? I don’t know. Tall and outrageously beautiful yet weird and intense, streetwise yet naive, in love with a lovely if seemingly square woman....”

Cameron smiled bashfully. “If only I’d liked looking pretty, and being seen! I too could be a bisexual supermodel!” She shook some more candy into her mouth. Thickly, she said, “I can’t believe I ever did beauty pageants. I’m so glad I stopped, Christ.”

They sat quietly, Cameron becoming even quieter as Gia and makeup artist Linda met, participated in a what turned into a nude photo shoot together, and proceeded to have sex back at Gia’s apartment. When the movie came back to the scene where Angelina Jolie went out into the hallway naked, Cameron said, “Not to sound cliche or whatever, but, I feel like I didn’t fully get the big deal people make about sex until you. I mean, not like I didn’t enjoy it, just, even when I did really enjoy it, it would feel like something was off? Or like, it didn’t matter what I did or how I did it, because it would feel like, something about me was fundamentally off. Or wrong. I think that’s why it took me so long to break up with J0e,” she admitted. “I never felt like there was something wrong about how I was with him.”

“Aw,” Donna said. She took Cameron’s free hand in her own, looked up adoringly at Cameron, and said, “…that’s gay.”

Cameron snorted, and then said, “I asked for that, huh?”

Donna let go of Cameron’s hand so she could put her arm around Cameron’s shoulders. “Seriously though. I think we have skewed ideas about sex. Unrealistic expectations about how easy or how naturally it will come to us. We think we’re gonna have the best and wildest sex of our lives in our 20s, but it doesn’t work like that? Figuring out what you really like, and what you need to feel fully comfortable, and then finding partners who you’re really compatible with, that takes time, a lot of time, and a lot of effort, too! Every woman I’ve ever talked to about it was well into her 30s when she figured it out.”

“So it’s not just me, then?” Cameron said.

“No, it is definitely not just you,” Donna said.

Quietly, Cameron said, “Do you ever kind of feel like sex is maybe just, like, a little overrated? I really, really like you and all, but….”

Kissing the top of Cameron’s head, Donna said, “Not lately, no! But I know what you’re saying. It’s great but it’s also not worth the indignities a lot of us tolerate for it. People act like it’s a necessity, and it’s not! It’s a luxury! That some people aren’t even that into! And there’s nothing weird about that!”

“It’s a little strange to hear you say that after a year of sleeping with you and seeing first-hand just how much of a freak you are, but I appreciate it nonetheless,” Cameron said.

“Oh, honey,” Donna arched an eyebrow. “We’re just getting started.” Cameron looked over at her and laughed nervously, and then Donna said, “There’s always gonna be more to us than that, though. Because we started out as more than that, and I’m happy about that. I’m glad that we were partners before we became, you know. Partners.”

Sighing contentedly, Cameron said, “So am I, Boss.”

#MEANT TO POST ON SUNDAY BUT ALAS! LIFE GOT IN THE WAY #if you haven't seen gia you shouldddd and not just bc she and cameron are both bicons #and also shout out to risa for being cam and donna's connection to the culture~#ANYWAYS normalize not fully understanding/expressing your sexuality until later in life! and also not being into sex ever or at all!#femslash february #femslash february 2021 #fan fiction #cameron howe #donna clark #donna emerson

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the-keeper-crew · 3 years

Text

Mia’s Sophiana fic

Whoever answers Mia’s new asks, please add the newest installment to this post, I can’t always do it. -Misty

story is under the cut because it got super long -dmitri

Knock knock. Sophie answered her bedroom door, to see Biana standing there. “Uhh hi Biana.” Sophie said awkwardly. “Come on in.”Biana sat down and smiled at her, making Sophie hug her tightly. “I just came to check in on you, with all the hectic stuff happening.”“I’m fine. Thanks for coming though.” Sophie said, “I don’t mean that rudely, sorry I’m really bad at speaking.” Sophie said. “I’ll stop now.”Biana laughed,“Will you go out with me?” Sophie asked, before she could stop herself.

“Wait… you want to go out with me?” Biana looked at Sophie, her perfect face blushing a little. Sophie nodded, the butterflies in her stomach doing loop the loops. “Yeah.” Sophie said, a little shakily.“R-really?” Biana asked, looking up at Sophie. Her teal eyes seemed nervous, but happy at the same time. “Weren’t you like… dating Fitz?”

“We kind of broke up.” Sophie said looking at her feet. “It wasn’t a bad thing.” She added quickly. “We just didn’t like each other like that.”Biana didn’t respond, awkwardly twisting her hair.“It’s fine fine if you don’t like me like that, I don’t really care phht why would I? I mean-” Sophie said quickly, as red as a tomato.“I like you too.” Biana cut her off.“Wait… really?” Sophie asked, looking up at annoyingly perfect Biana.“Y-yeah.”

After Biana had left, Sophie screamed into her pillow. She had just asked Biana fricking Vacker out. Now was officially time to panic. After the pillow screaming fest, she immediately hailed Dex. “Judging from the amount of happiness you are radiating, you asked Biana out?”“Yeeeessss!” Sophie nearly squealed.

“What happened?” Dex asked. “Give me all the details.”“Was I this pushy when you asked fitz out?” Now it was Dex’s turn to blush.“I specifically remember you telling me that if I hadn’t just gotten a boyfriend, you would strangle me for the details.” Dex said laughing“That’s different.” Sophie said, grinning “I still can’t believe you asked Biana out. How did you manage to do it without hiding under your blankets for the rest of your life?”

Sophie waited outside Aldens door, when she stopped in her tracks. “Dad, I don’t want to register for Match lists!” Biana said angrily.“Biana Amberly Vacker. I am simply asking for you to register.”“I don’t want to!” Biana said.“There isn’t one boy that you hope is on your list?” Alden asked.“No.”“No boys, not even one? What about Keefe or Dex?” Alden said“Ugghhhh dad!” Biana groaned.“Don’t you want to see what boys are on your list?”“What if I don’t want to date a boy?“ the room went silent.

“Biana...” Alden said warningly. “Seriously. What if I want to date a girl?” Biana asked defiantly. “I know you’re a rebellious teenager...” “no seriously.” Biana said. “Well then I guess you’d have to reconsider your place in this family.” Alden said quietly. “Alden...” Della said quietly. “Get out of here. Both of you.” Alden said and Sophie scrambled away.

Sophie sat on her bed, worrying. She knew the elves might not be as accepting, but the way Alden had talked to Biana earlier made her stomach twist. She stood up and paced the room. Why was this so hard? Couldn’t people just love who they wanted to love? She sighed. Knock knock. “Come in!” Sophie called. Edaline stepped inside, and looked at Sophie. “Are you ok? You’ve been acting upset.”

“Oh I’m fine.” Sophie lied.“You sure?” Edaline said, sitting next to Sophie.“I really am.” Sophie said, trying to convince herself.Edaline wrapped her arms around Sophie, and Sophie breathed in her scent of lilac. “You can tell me anything, you know that?” Edaline asked softly.“I know…” Sophie said. Could she really though. “ I love you mom.”“I love you too sweetheart.”

Sophie watched Edaline leave, her head swirling. Would Edaline and Grady even care? They’d always been so supportive of Sophie, would this change anything, but aldens angry words came back to haunt her. “Well then I guess you’d have to reconsider your place in this family.” She hugged her blanket around her. Why was this so hard? She closed her eyes trying to think about good things. Like how she was dating the most beautiful girl in the world, and that beautiful girl was strong and... zzzzz

The sun rose over the fields of havenfield, slipping under Sophie’s curtains. She woke up, and flopped back onto her pillows. It’s too early to be up… suddenly someone knocked on her door. “Sophie?” Biana called. Sophie nearly jumped out of bed and straightened the wrinkled tunic she had slept in. “Yes?” She asked, trying to force down the butterflies in her stomach. “Can I come in?”

“Yeah sure.” Sophie smiled at her, trying to forget that her hair looked like Verdi had licked it. Biana sat on her bed, smiling at her. “Did I wake you up?” Biana asked, concerned. “It’s fine, I should have been up anyway. What are you doing up so early?” Sophie asked. “I wanted to get out of the house. Dinner last night was awkward to say the least.” “I’m sorry…” Sophie said. “It’s fine. Dad’ll come around.” Sophie nodded, but still was worried.

“You ok? How did fitz react?” Sophie asked. “Oh, he brought me some mallowmelt, and told me that what I did was brave.” “And you didn’t save any mallowmelt for me?” Sophie asked, pretending to be indignant. Biana laughed. “You really think I would do something as vile as to not bring my beautiful girlfriend mallowmelt?” Biana laughed.

Later that day, Alden hailed Sophie to talk with her in his office. Biana told her to go, she’d stay right here and would most definitely not look through her old photo albums. “What did you want to talk about?” Sophie asked. “Nothing important. Amy haile to tell you happy birthday.” It took Sophie a minute to process that. “Oh!Yeah. Thanks.” Sophie says. “Was that all?”Alden shook his head. “Have you seen Biana? She’s going through a bit of a rebellious phase.” Sophie wanted to punch Alden. “No“

Alden narrowed his eyes but didn’t prod any further. “Well, if you do see her then tell her to come home.” “I will” Sophie said, lying through gritted teeth. She light leaped back to everglen, running into Edaline. “Oh!” Edaline smiled at her. “Biana just left, said something about going to Atlantis? She seemed flustered.” Edaline said. “Oh, it was probably nothing.” Sophie said.

“Oh, guess what? It’s my human birthday!” Sophie said trying to change the subject. “I know elves don’t really do birthdays but…” edaline smiled. “Do you want to have a dinner with a special friend or two? Just something small? I’ll ask the gnomes to make something special?” “That would be awesome!” Sophie hugged Edaline, breathing in the scent of lilacs, which is rare especially in a place where there’s more animal poop a day than animals.

Sophie looked over her friends. “It’s my birthday guys, so I swear to all the gods if I even hear the word gulon at the dinner table, I will promise you will never want to cross me again.” “Jeez who you tryin to impress foster?” Keefe asked. “Probably her new girlfriend Biana.” Dex said. Sophie glared at him as Keefe dramatically opened his eyes wide.

Keefe automatically broke into a grin. “You must tell me everything.” Sophie rolled her eyes. “Not now!” Keefe laughed. “Ok, note to self, remind Sophie to spill the tea about her dating the next Vacker sibling.” Tam snickers a little at that. They walk into the dining room, all still teasing each other. “Sorry I’m late.” Biana rushes in, and Keefe raises his eyebrows. Biana sits down next to Sophie, out of breath. “What’d I miss?” Keefe smirks. “Oh nothing”

They shared a dinner of traditional human food, vegetarian of course, which Sophie didn’t know how Edaline got her hands on. Grady even showed them a cool human card trick, which Keefe then had to try. Biana kept shooting her these adorable looks that made Sophie want to melt inside. Edaline raised her eyebrows at Sophie, but she just blushed and kept talking with her friends.

After Sophie tried to teach her friends how to sing happy birthday, and it just ended up horribly out of tune, she and her friends retreated up to her room to hang out. She sat on the bed, while the rest of them sat on bean bags on the floor. They had been one short, so Keefe “took one for the team” by sitting next to Tam on his beanbag. Link of course found this hilarious, and Tam just looked vaguely disgruntled but pleased with himself.

Slowly, her friends started to head home until it was just the Vacker siblings. “Hey fitz...” Biana said, standing up. “Could you head home and tell dad I’m having a sleepover with Sophie tonight?” “Biana, he’s not gonna like that…” fitz started to say. “It’s fine.” Fitz obliged, and soon the two girls were alone. “I’m sorry, but your dad can be a real jerk face sometimes.” Biana laughed. “Definitely. Oh!” She pulled out a hastily wrapped package. “Happy Birthday Sophie.”

Sophie took the gift, blushing a little. It was wrapped in a silvery paper with purple swirls, tied up with a lopsided bow. She opened the present carefully, trying not to rip the packaging. Biana looked a little nervous, but Sophie gasped when she saw the gift. It was a beautiful snowglobe of foxfire, with little mini people, so small you could barely see them milling around the campus. “It’s awesome Biana! I love it!” Biana blushed a little, making sophie blush more.

Sophie put it on her shelf carefully, and sat back down, stealing glances at Biana. The Vacker girl looked a little lost in thought, staring out the window. “Do you want to go for a walk?” Sophie asked “Verdi should be asleep so we don’t have to worry about a green feathered chaperone.” Biana giggled. “Sure.” They snuck outside, the light from the windows of the house half illuminating their features.

The moonlight made everything shine with a sort of silvery glow, making it feel almost dream-like. They started strolling side-by-side, along the fences of the enclosures. The animals were mostly quiet, which was good. Sophie wasn’t exactly sure how it happened, but after a few minutes, they were holding hands. They didn’t talk, but just enjoyed each other’s company, content with the silence.

It could have been 2 minutes, it could have been an hour, Sophie didn’t know, she liked Biana’s company too much. They made their way up to the Panakes tree, and sat there, watching the moonlight filtering through the delicate flowers. “Sophie?” Biana asked, softly. “Yes?” Sophie whispered. “Can I kiss you?” Sophie’s breath stopped for a moment.

Sophie didn’t bother responding, she just kissed Biana. In the back of her mind, she wondered how much Keefe would tease her, but that wasn’t important now. “So. That happened.” Sophie finally said. “It did.” Biana said, her cheeks flushed. They grinned at each other like idiots, unaware of the blue eyes watching from the window.

Sophie went to bed floating on a cloud that night, Biana sleeping on a pile of bean bags. She had a wonderful dream, about dancing and balls, and Biana in the most gorgeous dress. She woke up the next morning, adrenaline still there, making her feel giddy. She snuck past a sleeping Biana, and downstairs. Grady and Edaline were talking quietly over tea. “Good morning guys!” She said, and they abruptly stopped.

“Morning Sophie.” Grady said, nodding at her. “How are-“ he was cut off by a knock at the door. Edaline got up to answer. It was Alden, who looked like he hadn’t slept. “Is my daughter here? Fitz said she was sleeping over, I’d like to pick her up.” Edaline nodded. “It’s really fine, we don’t mind having her over.” Alden shook his head. “Morning Sophie, where’s Biana?”

“Umm… she’s still sleeping.” “Go wake her up for me, will you?” Sophie nodded and ran upstairs. She shook Biana awake. “It’s your dad.” Biana groaned and stood up. Sophie knew she shouldn’t think about how absolutely adorable Biana looked with bed head, but really, who was going to stop her. They headed downstairs to Alden sipping a cup of tea. “Morning Biana.”

Biana awkwardly waved at him. “Well, we better be going now.” Alden said starting to turn. “Would Biana be able to stay for breakfast? I’m having the gnomes make something special.” Edaline said. “No, I don’t need her infringing on your family any more.” And with that, the two Vackers were gone.

Sophie sat down with Edaline and Grady. An awkward silence settled over them as they ate delicious breakfast pastries. Sophie finished hers first, and sat back. “I had fun last night. Thanks guys.” Edaline looked like she wanted to say something, but held it back. “I’m glad you had fun.”

Sophie headed up to her room, telling her parents she was gonna get ready for foxfire tommorow. She opened the door to iggy poking his head up from a pile of blankets. “Hey iggy.” She said, picking him up. “You’re adorable, aren’t you?” He didn’t respond, simply farting in her face.

“Life is easy for you, isn’t it? You don’t have a girlfriend who’s dad is just… and live in a world where there’s no chance you can ever be normal?” Iggy grinned at her and curled up in her hair. Sophie sighed. “And now I’m talking to an imp. Great.”

After an hour of moping, or as Sophie liked to call it, hiding under your blankets and looking through your photographic memory, Edaline knocked on the door. “Come in” Sophie called, sitting up. “Ok, so with foxfire starting tomorrow, I wondered if you wanted to go shopping in Atlantis?”

“Sure.” Sophie said, standing up. “You should get dressed and ready.” Sophie nodded. Edaline left gracefully, and Sophie quickly changed into a grey tunic and whatever else she needed. She headed downstairs. “Ready.”She said “Ok, do you want to bring your girlfriend?”

Sophie nearly choked. “I- what?” Edaline finished putting on her cloak. “Biana? Do you want to bring her?” Sophie blinked. “What? How? Huh?” How could Edaline know? They weren’t that obvious were they? What did she think? Why was this so hard?

“How do you know?” Sophie finally managed to spit out. Edaline sat down next to her. “You weren’t super subtle last night at dinner, and then I accidentally saw you by the Panakes. Sophie blushed, looking down. “Are you ok?” Edaline asked. “Yeah… I’m fine.” Sophie hugged her knees, not meeting Edalines warm gaze. “Hey… I’m here if you need me.” Edaline said, hugging Sophie.

The first day of foxfire came quicker than Sophie would have liked. But there she was, adjusting that stupid half cape in the mirror. She hadn’t seen Biana since that morning, but told herself it was because of school prep. She waved goodbye to Edaline and Grady, and headed to the Leap master.

When she arrived at foxfire, she immediately looked around for Biana. She didn’t even realize Dex walk up beside her. “Hey Soph. You excited for classes?” Dex asked. She didn’t respond for a sec. “oh it’s you. yeah.” Dex faked indignation. “Oh, It’s you? That’s what your best friend gets? I’m offended.” Sophie snickered. “Sorry Dex…”

They walked together to her locker when she finally saw Biana. She was looking at Fitz, as if they were having a serious conversation. It took all of Sophie’s willpower to not go and interrupt. “Earth to Sophie!” Dex said. “Are you even listening? The gang is getting together after school to have epic snowball fights at my house.” Sophie laughed again. “Do you ever get sick of snow?” She asked. “Nope!”

“Sophie?” Sophie nearly jumped out of her skin as she heard Biana behind her. “Oh, hi! I didn’t see you there.” Biana smiled at her. “Sorry for being so distant-“ she started. “It’s fine it really is, I’m sorry I interrupted you. I’m sorry.” Sophie said, stumbling over her words. Biana giggled. “You don’t have to apologize. It’s fine.” Sophie grinned.

“So how are you lovebirds doing?” Keefe walked up, grinning. “We are not lovebirds,” Sophie said. Biana raised her perfect little eyebrows. “I beg to differ” Dex jumped in. “Ok, then how are things going with Fitz Dex, and Keefe, what’s up with Tam?” Biana said. Both boys blushed, and Sophie laughed. “What classes do y’all have first?”

Their conversation was cut off by Magnate Leto’s voice coming from the large screen thing. “Happy first day of school my prodigies! I hope you are all doing well, and are excited for a new year of learning!” Keefe snickered. “And Keefe sencen I would like to ask you how you found it appropriate to stick a muskog in my desk drawer and since it technically happened before school started you will not get detention, but I do recommend staying out of your locker” “It wasn’t even me” Keefe said.

“My first class is… elementalism.” Sophie made a face. Biana looked at her. “I have Alchemy… I’ll see y’all at lunch!” Biana walked away, her floofy brown hair bouncing. Sophie was pretty sure her heart just melted. She walked to class, nearly floating.

Lunch time couldn’t have come fast enough. Sophie tried not to run down the hall, but she was going to see Biana at lunch and honestly that seemed like a good excuse to run. She sat at a table, Fitz and Linh were already there, talking about something. “What are you talking about?” Sophie asked.

Fitz looked at her. “Not much, mostly just first day of school stuff.” He said. Sophie raised her eyebrows. “You seriously havent heard?” Fitz asked. Linh nodded. “I thought they told teachers to give the announcement.” Sophie shrugged. “Well my elementalism professor is a bit swiss cheesed brain, so what is it?” “Well…”

Suddenly Keefe burst up behind the table. “There’s a dance guys!” Sophie blinked. “Huh?” Fitz laughed as the rest of their friends sat down. “It’s called the first annual welcome ball!” Linh explained. “Both parents and students will show up!” “When is it?” Sophie asked. “This Friday!” Sophie blinked. That was not a lot of time.

Biana showed up late to the lunch table, so Keefe excitedly explained to her the dance. Though Sophie suspected he just saw it as a way to annoy his father. Biana looked excited, and grinned at Sophie making her heart skip a beat. Why does she have to be so cute?

After lunch, Sophie managed to catch Biana in the hall. “Ummm soo I hope your dad wasn’t too bad…” Sophie said. “No, I just got a talk about the Vacker legacy, even though I’m only part of it when he wants me to be.” Biana said grumpily. “I’m sorry…” Biana rolled her eyes. “The one thing that made it better was Mom mouthing the words to it in the background, Im fairly sure she has it memorized by now.” Both of the girls laughed a little at that.

Sophie grinned. “So… the dance…” Biana said, tucking a strand of her long brown hair behind her ear. “The dance…” Sophie repeated. “Are you going?” Biana asked. “I think so?” Sophie said. “Is that a question?” Biana teased. “I mean yeah, probably.” Biana grinned. “You know what this means?” “What?” Sophie asked. “We get to go outfit shopping.” Biana said excitedly.

The first week of school was officially over, and Sophie was exhausted. She flopped on the couch of Rimeshire, surrounded by her friends. They had all agreed to stop invading Dex’s house, but he had made a surround sound 4K movie watching set up for his mom, and no one else had anything as good. They all settled in, and bickered about the movie. Dex wanted The Hunger games, Sophie Harry Potter.

On Saturday morning, Sophie woke up to iggy asking for attention. After giving him a few papers to rip up, she headed downstairs for breakfast. The dance was tomorrow, and today was when Biana would drag her dress shopping. Sophie ate a muffin, excited for the day. Generally she didn’t like clothes shopping that much, but if Biana was going to be there that made it better.

Atlantis was buzzing with activity, Sophie recognized at least four families from school, and tried her best to avoid their gaze. The twisting spires of Atlantis glinted in the light provided by the balefire. Voices echoed across the empty streets as the crowds bustled along. Sophie felt a little overwhelmed by it all, and stood close to Edaline.

Suddenly someone tapped Sophie’s shoulder, and she nearly jumped out of Atlantis. “Oh. It’s you Biana.” She sighed with relief. Biana was standing there, perfect as ever, with Della standing there. “Hi Della.” Della smiled at her. “Hi Sophie.” The two moms started walking behind the girls, talking about whatever Elf Moms™ talk about. Biana and Sophie walked side by side, watching each other out of the corner of their eye.

The four elves headed into The Atlantis Boutique, and Sophie thought Biana was in heaven. Her stunning teal eyes widened, as they looked at all the dresses. Before Sophie could process the ginormous size this shop was, Biana grabbed her arm, and dragged her down aisles of long dresses. Edaline laughed as she watched the two of them disappear behind the rows of sparkling dresses. Della ducked out of the shop, saying she was meeting a friend, and Edaline stood at the front watching the two girls.

Biana worked with a scary efficiency, picking up dresses, holding them up to her and Sophie, and putting them back or carrying them with her. Sophie followed in awe as Biana quickly broke down each dress based on what fabrics it was made of, additional materials, effectiveness to strangle someone with, and ability to kick someone. Sophie swore that if Biana weaponized her knowledge, they’d all be dead.

Finally they had narrowed the outfits down to two outfits. A red suit thing or a shining red dress for Sophie, and a long silvery dress for Biana or a purple dress with silver sparkles making it shimmer in the light of balefire. Sophie went into the changing room, and tried on the two outfits. They both looked stunning according to Biana, which was a whole other level of stress to choose the right one.

Finally, Sophie decided on the suit, and the lady running the store put it in a box. Biana also chose a dress but wouldn’t show Sophie which one. Della re-entered the shop, a little out of breath. “Do you girls want to go to a bakery in Mysterium?” Della asked. “Sure.” Biana said, and Sophie nodded. 10 minutes later, the four of them found themselves on the cobbled streets of Mysterium.

The four of them sat at a table, and a server brought them a plate of assorted elvin pastries, including rippleruffs, mallowmelt, and a whole assortment of things that were delicious and could most likely start wars. “Mmmm this is good.” Sophie said, chewing a butterblast. Biana nodded in agreement, and the two of them helped finish the pastries. Sophie stretched. “That was really good.” Edaline smiled. “I’m glad you liked it.”

The night of the dance came too quickly. Edaline told her everything would be perfect, and rumor had it the council themselves would be attending. That didn’t stop Sophie from worrying though. She’d never really been to a dance, what would she act like? She straightened her suit for the 43rd time, fidgeting with the buttons. She exhaled, and walked with Grady and Edaline to the Leap master.

Foxfire was decorated beautifully, though a lot of the decorations were fungi, and honestly Sophie was really annoyed at this point. Mold was not good decor. They headed into the gymnasium, which was beautifully decorated, and this time there was no fungus. Hip hip hooray! Sophie looked around, wandering through groups of students and parents.

“Sophie!” Biana called from the corner of the room. Sophie excitedly walked over to her friends. “Hi guys!” She smiled at her friends. “You look awesome!” Sophie said to Biana. Biana twirled in her purple and teal dress. “You do too” Sophie awkwardly straightened her suit. She caught Keefe shooting her a look and she glared at him. Their little group of eight laughed and poked at each other while more people filed into the gym.

The dance floor went silent as the 12 councilors appeared. They appeared regal as always, all wearing different colors, that shimmered in the lighting of the gym. After the initial shock of their arrival, things went back to normal, now with the councilors mingling with the students and parents. Sophie was pretty sure one kid peed himself when bronte started talking to them. Slowly, their little group dissolved. Dex and Fitz went off into the crowd, and the. Keefe nearly dragged tam to the staff cafeteria “while it was unguarded” That left the four girls. Marella said something about checking in on her mom, and Linh vaguely followed her. Sophie looked awkwardly at Biana. “Umm…” Biana grinned. “I have something I want to show you.” Biana dragged Sophie out of the gym and down the hall way.

Biana opened a side door, and they walked through the grass. They could still hear the faint sound of music and chatter from the gym, and light flowed from the windows, half illuminating the world. Biana led her to a small clearing, filled with long weeping willow trees, and little flowers that glowed in the moonlight. “This place is beautiful.”

“Shall we dance?” Biana reached out her hand, and Sophie blushed, thankful for the darkness. Sophie took a deep breath, and took Bianas hand. The two girls started dancing, to the melody of the forest, the crickets song, and the moonlight symphony. Sophie couldn’t remember a time she’d been happier

The two girls danced, almost in their own little world. Time was irrelevant. They danced around the little clearing, twirling to their own tune. Finally, they slowed to a stop. Sophie had completely given up any hope of hiding her blush. Then, there under the moon, the two girls shared a kiss together, all worries forgotten.

Suddenly a boom echoed through the campus. The two girls stumbled back, shocked. Their eyes met, full of fear. They ran toward the campus, Sophie wondering if bianas extensive knowledge of how to fight in a dress would have to be used. They emerged from the forest, to see the gymnasium erupting in flames. It looked like most of the people were out of the gym, but Sophie could see black cloaked figures, even from the distance.

Magnate Leto ran up to them, followed by their friends. “You kids need to get out of here.” “But-“ Sophie protests. “Now.” Magnate Leto gives her a hard glare. Suddenly Linh pipes up. “Where’s marella?” Marella wasn’t with them. “I see her!” Tam says, pointing to their braided friend. She’s stuck in a crowd, surrounded by people. (i dont think this is the neverseen being antigay, just generic evil stuff. Decisionssss)

Before Tam could stop her, Linh was dashing through the crowd, shooting water at the flames. “Marella!” Linh calls, and marella looks up. “Linh?” Marella blasts another wave of fire at a neverseen member. Suddenly a wall of fire surrounds the crowd, and Tam’s breath catches.

Sophie feels herself start falling, even though she’s on solid ground. Linh… marella… they can’t be gone! She can’t lose more friends. She feels Biana wrap her arms around her, as she starts shaking. Nononono! Suddenly a figure starts emerging from the blaze.

Marella is there, seemingly unharmed except for singed hair. In her arms, is an unconscious figure, Linh. Tam immediately rushes to Linh’s side. “Ahem.” Magnate Leto says, “you all need to go. Take this.” He hands them a leaping crystal and dissapears into the crowd. Sophie holds the crystal to the light, and they step into the beam.

They stumble onto someone’s front lawn. Physic, or Livvy stepped out the front door and ushered them inside. They set Linh on the couch, and sat around a dining table. “What just happened?” Sophie asked. “How did no one know the neverseen were there?” Tam shrugged. “It happened out of the blue. Everything was fine, and the there was fintan trying to burn down the gym.”

Sophie knew that they shouldn’t be able to say things like that so casually, but they had been through so much, the unhinged pyrokinetic really had to try to surprise them. Livvy walked into the dining room, wiping her forehead. “Your sister is in a stable condition.” She tells tam, and sits down. “How much do you guys know?”

“Nothing.” Sophie said. “What in the world is going on?” She asked. Livvy sighed and shook her head. “The neverseen came for you a few days ago, Grady found shreds of a black cloak in the pastures. Verdi got to the member before they got anywhere, but we were on high alert.” Sophie narrowed her eyes. “Why didn’t you tell me this?” Livvy sighed. “We wanted your life to be as normal as possible.”

“Well what happens now?” Sophie asked, a little annoyed. She wasn’t a kid anymore, she wanted to know what was happening in her life. “You’re going to pretend to be humans.” Livvy says matter of factly. The table burst into chaos. Sophie’s eyes widened, and the rest of them shouted various protests. Livvy quieted them. “For a while. You’re going to be visiting me, Aunt Olivias house. That’s what you’re telling everyone anyway.“

“What?” Sophie asked. “The eight of us don’t look remotely related.” Livvy sighed. “I told the fork man that, he said to figure it out.” Sophie giggled. “We’ll just go by a don’t ask don’t tell thing. Are we like actually going places and stuff?” Livvy nodded. “You will be normal teenagers, even going to school and doing homework.” The whole table groaned.

Three days later, and after almost dying because of Livvy’s driving, the eight of them headed into the front office to register for school. They all looked normal in tshirts and jeans, except for linhs arm in a cast. They got registered, and headed to their lockers. Sophie had to show them how to open them without licking them, and they headed to their individual homerooms, ready for the day.

By lunch rumor had spread of the mysterious eight new students who refused to talk to anyone outside of the eight. They all sat at a table in the corner of the cafeteria, refusing to make eye contact with anyone. Linh hated not being able to talk to the humans, but tam told her it was for their safety. They sat down, to talk about the first day.

Before they could settle in, a group of people came over. “Hi, we noticed you lot are new here, do you want to come sit with us?” Sophie looked at Biana and the rest of them, and they shrugged. The eight of them headed over to a larger table. “My name’s beau,” the first person said. “Mine is felony.” The person with lime green hair said, grinning. They all sat down awkwardly. “What’s y’all’s names?” Felony asked grinning. “I’m Sophia, this is Bianca, Dexter, Marin, Aylin, Tommy, Keegan, and Fred

Her friends hated the names Livvy insisted on calling them while humans, but played along. “Cool.” Another person at the table said. “This is Lia, Jojo, Lynn, and the rest.” “Oh wow I’m glad we mean so much to you that you’ll tell the newbies our name. I’m tater, call me tater.” Sophie blinked. “Great.” These humans were nice? Of course there were nice humans, but she had never felt welcomed by people outside her family

“So tommy…” Keefe said, scooting closer to Tam. “How did you like your first classes.” “Shut up Keegan” tam said glaring at Keefe. Sophie laughed. “Sorry about my friends.” Beau smiled. “Where’d y’all come from?” Sophie shrugged “San Francisco, we’re visiting a friend of all our families, we’re close.” “Yep” Biana agreed. Sophie though it sounded suspicious at best, but Lia and Lynn were nodding. “Cool.”

“I feel like I know you guy...” felony said, narrowing their eyes “How could you know us?” Sophie said. “We’ve been on the west coast forever!” Sophie was panicking a little. Felony shrugged. “I have some family out there, might have seen you around. “Oh, ok…” Sophie sighed in relief. Sophie took a bite of the veggie roll Livvy had packed. She had made their lunches because vegetarian.

Brrrrriiinng! The cafeteria got noisy as people clamored to leave. “See y’all tommorow?” Beau called as they joined the crowd. Sophie nodded. She turned to her friends. “That wasn’t so bad.” “It really wasn’t.” Marella said in agreement. They all headed to classes, a little more confident.

The group got home, exhausted. They all flopped in the living room, sighing. “You kids tired?” Livvy asked “you had to give me the name Fred?” Fitz asked, sitting up. “It sounds so weird!” “It sounds normal.” Livvy corrected. Tam grumbled something about the name tommy, and Keefe laughed at him. “School was good. We even made a few friends.” Livvy smiled. “Friends are good. Now to celebrate the first day of school, do y’all want to get takeout?”

After a dinner of delicious pizza, which her friends devoured, Livvy came in. “I have a surprise for you guys!” Tam looked at her. “Is this surprise better than you making my name Tommy to the humans.” Linh giggled. “Yes, it is.” Livvy said. “I got everyone phones.” Everyone blinked, confused except for Sophie.

“What is a phone?” Keefe asked. “Don’t ask me Keegan.” Tam said grumpily. Dex took it. “Oh gosh! It’s like an imparter, but like…” he trailed off, and started pushing buttons. Marella took hers as well, but immediately got confused. Sophie wanted to die laughing, this was hilarious. Keefe took to poking his phone cautiously, watch what happens, and repeat. Linh simply stared at it like telepathically telling it what to do.

A few weeks passed, and things seem to grow normal. The only reminder of the lost cities was when they hailed their parents/friends to check in each Friday. Repairs were made to foxfire, and the eight stayed underground. Finally, one Wednesday, at lunch with the kids from school, they had grown closer over the weeks, and Sophie realized felony was right. It did feel like they knew each other. Finally, Lia tapped on her shoulder one day in class.

“Hey Sophia, it’s my birthday party this weekend, I was wondering if y’all wanted to come.” Sophie shrugged. “I’ll ask the others, but can’t think of a reason to not go.” Lia smiled. Sophie was right, the others did in fact want to go. The day before the party was a mess of gift shopping, and Biana insisting they have perfect outfits. Livvy was also worried, they all were, the threat of the neverseen was still there, and they didn’t want their human friends in the crossfire.

Ding dong! They eight of them waited by the front door, the sun setting. “Hi guys!“Felony opened the door, and ushered them inside. They dropped their gifts off, and headed downstairs where chaos was already beginning.

Lynn and some others were aggressively… could you aggressively talk? Well, they were talking about some vacation to Amsterdam that Sophie was unsure whether it happened or not. Keefe automatically went to join them, and Sophie went off to find someone to talk to. She’d never really been to a human birthday party other than her sisters and her own. What was she supposed to do?

Suddenly Beau ran down the stairs. “Guys! Me and Tater got the fire pit going for s’mores! Come on!” Lynn looked incredulous, like she was saying “you trusted them with fire?” But Lia just shrugged and they all ran upstairs.

They all settled around the fire pit, Biana and sophie shared a chair next to the fire, with a blanket pulled over them. Biana snuggled up next to her, which the others didn’t seem to kind as they violently stabbed marshmallows, and then set them on fire. Keefe, to no ones surprise found this process quite amusing.

Well… Keefe found it amusing until he decided to try and feed tam the marshmallow sandwich. Long story short, it ended with a marshmallow covered Tam and a hysterically laughing Keefe. Biana giggled and made her s’more, which was somehow perfectly cooked. The humans didn’t even seem that bothered, getting up to their own marshmallow related shenanigans.

The scene slowly devolved until it was a full on marshmallow war. Marella was secretly making her marshmallows meltier to throw at people, and Keefe was pelting everyone with half melted marshmallows. Fitz was trying to stop this of course, saying things like “guys, we don’t want to waste the marshmallows,” that was until Dex smushed and open s’more in his face, it just got more chaotic from there.

Finally, it winded down and people started floating to the back porch where there were traditional party games like pin the tail on the donkey. The elves found it hilarious, and Sophie giggled as Linh tried to stop felony from hitting the donkey. Biana looked up at her. “This is nice isn’t it?” She asked, the fire reflecting in her teal eyes. “It really is.” (No it’s fine, it’s your suggestions and feedback is why this is steadily growing, and not just ending.)

“Kiss kiss kiss kiss.” Sophie turned around to see Beau badly hiding behind a bush. She blushed and Beau laughed. Biana giggled. “We have to please the people, right?” Sophie blushed even harder as Biana kissed her. Beau laughed harder. “I knew it. JOJO! YOU OWE ME 15 DOLLARS!” Beau yelled. “Oh and lovebirds, cakes out.” Biana stood up and followed Beau. “You coming?

“Yeah one sec.” Sophie said, sitting up and stretching. Biana walked towards the porch, and Sophie looked into the bushes. She could have sworn she saw something moving. She looked over her shoulder. Everyone was too busy talking to notice her. She walked towards the bushes and looked down. There was a small scrap of parchment… she picked it up, expecting a black swan note. She opened it, and her heart stopped. It was the neverseen eye, staring up at her.

Sophie hasn’t slept since Lia’s party. She had rushed home as soon as the party finished, and told Livvy, who told forkle. Shockingly, he didn’t demand they relocate, they instead had some members on standby to defend the house, and they couldn’t go anywhere alone. Sophie stared out the window. The moon was rising and she knew she should be in bed, but the human world had coffee, so it was fine, right?

She scribbled in her notebook, running over that night in her head. Had anything been out of the ordinary? Her head hurt, and she groaned. She really should sleep… but if she slept she’d have nightmares and honestly no sleep was better. She paced her room, filtering through her thoughts. She froze as someone knocked on her door

She opened the door to see Biana holding two mugs of hot chocolate. “Fitz made these for you. Said he got the recipe from Beau, so it has to be good.” Sophie took a mug and sat down at her desk, Biana sitting on her bed. “How did they did they find us Bi?” Sophie asked, for the 345th time this week. “I don’t know Soph, but obsessing over it won’t help. When’s the last time you slept?” Sophie thought. “I think… a few days ago for an hour or two?” She sipped her cocoa.

Biana shook her head. “You need to sleep Sophie.” Sophie looked at her floor. “I’m fine Bi” Biana raised her eyebrows. “You’re not. Even the humans are noticing somethings up. If you won’t sleep for you, will you sleep to help protect us? Will you sleep for me?” Sophie hugged her knees. Biana wrapped her arms around Sophie, hugging her. “Please sleep…”

Sophie woke up the next morning, to Biana still there, arms wrapped around her. Biana looked peaceful when she slept. Everything was peaceful. That was until she heard Keefe’s muffled screaming downstairs. She shot up and ran down the stairs. “What is it?! Neverseen? The council? Gluons?” Keefe laughed. “No, it’s snowing!” Sophie peered out the window.

Biana was still asleep when Sophie walked in. “Biana?” She asked. “I don’t want bananas. They taste yucky.” Biana said, still half asleep. Sophie giggled and shook her shoulder gently. “Wake up, it’s snowing outside.” Biana sat up, still bleary eyed. “Really?” Sophie nodded.

Bianas eyes lit up. “I have a plan then.” She said, grinning evilly. Sophie laughed. “Should I be worried?” Biana smirked. “No, but fitz should be, I still haven’t been able to get revenge on him for dumping that flour on me back at…” she trailed off. The air was thick. Both of them knew they couldn’t be normal. “Hey…” Sophie said as Biana looked down. “What was your plan?”

Biana shook her head evilly. “You’ll see.” The morning went by quickly, when fitz got a call from Beau. “Hey guys, there’s gonna be a snow war at the park, you wanna join?” A shared glance from their friends, and they were in.

It took longer than expected to get ready for the snow, none of the elf’s were good at Velcro, and Sophie was too busy laughing to help them. Finally, they piled in Livvys car, and they headed to the park. Luckily, it wasn’t full on war yet. Felony and Lia waved at them, inviting them to sit at the snowy picnic tables.

Tam muttered something about being cold, but sat down with the rest of them. Felony started talking about how epic the war was going to be. Then, a wave a cold snow hits Sophie. She turns around to see Beau and Tater laughing, her and a couple others now covered in snow. “Oh it’s on!

#sophiana #kotlc #keeper of the lost cities #sophie foster #biana vacker

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enbies-and-felonies · 4 years

Note

Since you’ve given the most... thought out? Answer? I hope it’s okay to ask this but what do you think elves do with those who have things like eds and stuff? You don’t have to answer I’m just curious

Totally okay! I like putting thought into the dirty details of world-building (does that sound bad?) (it just helps me with my own world-building)

From what I’ve seen? Elves are really into two things.

1. Gossiping and

2. Being perfect.

They go on and on about how they are the best species and how they’re perfect and how yadada- It’s BS. All they really do is have a society that puts such pressure on people to be perfect and fit in (you MUST be a good match, you MUST attend Foxfire and get good grades, you MUST have a Talent) that they ostracize anyone who doesn’t reach the very highest level of that standard.

You remember when (bk 1 I think) they were talking about how Grady and Edaline became recluses when Jolie died? When Edaline finally went shopping with Sophie to get some elixers from Kesler, everyone pointed and stared and whispered. They gossiped like Southern Baptist wives on a sunday after a new family arrives. But they didn’t give a flying fuck for sympathy or empathy or compassion. They just pointed and whispered.

I think ED’s would be like that too.

An elf is ‘over’weight? Shame on them. They are gossiped about endlessly. They’re ruining the “perfect elf” image, and they are shunned.

(we already see evidence of it when Keefe and Fitz are described as muscular, and Dex is ‘sadly’ just skinny, and how everyone is described as small and thin)

So an elf missing a meal? Eh, no harm no foul. They’ll look even better. If it slips that it’s more than just one meal? Or that they throw up the food they DO eat?

Well, they’ll rationalize, it’s all in the name of beauty. No one’s gonna stop them. Sure, they might talk behind their back, but you won’t see anyone trying to help or stop them.

#tw ed #tw throwing up #ed tw #eating disorder #tw eating disorder #eating disorder tw #kotlc #keeper of the lost cities #elves #kotlc elves #elven world #this actually makes sense to me??#I might write more on stuff like this #ask me about abuse in the lost cities #I think I could write on that too #I lost the game #keeper gang #keeper crew

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staliaqueen · 4 years

Text

bittersweet | 22

pairing: stiles stilinski x oc a/n: very little stalerie interaction this in this part, but you guys got so much last time I’m sure you will be fine. this part does pretty much settle the confusion behind Valerie’s powers, though. warnings: violence, mentions of murder, a car crash and a panic attack. wordcount: 3896

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Stiles

“We were here a couple of hours ago, and the message left to Barrow spelling out Kira’s and Valerie’s names was right there on the board in my handwriting and I had the key to the Chemistry closet.”

Scott furrowed his brows. “So, you unlocked the Chemistry closet so Barrow could hide in it from the cops and then you wrote him a message to kill Kira and Valerie?”

I shook my head. “I know, I know, I know how it sounds, but,” I reached my hand into the front pocket of my pants and pulled out the paper, “look at this.” Scott and Valerie leaned in so they could read the paper. “This is a news report that came out about Barrow when they caught him, okay? About the shrapnel bomb that he used. See this? See what he did? He put nuts, bolts, and screws. And then he hid the bomb and the detonator in a box that he wrapped like a birthday present. What does that sound like to you?”

Scott looked up, realization washing over his expression. ”Coach. The joke we played on Coach.”

“That was my idea. You remember? That was my idea. That’s no coincidence, it can’t be.”

“I don’t wanna sound like I’m trying to tell you that you’re wrong but-”

“Yeah, but I don’t have a problem with that,” Valerie spoke up. “Stilinski, this is ridiculous, you did not send a serial killer to kill me.”

I looked down, tears brimming in my eyes as I crumpled up the news report in my hand. “It was here. It was all here.”

“Yeah, I know that. I saw it, okay? I saw it,” she said, her voice much softer now. “But that doesn’t mean you wrote it. Why and how would you even do that?”

I sighed, running a hand over my face. “I don’t- I don’t know.”

“Dude, are you feeling okay?” asked Scott. “You’re looking really tired.”

“Yeah, I’m fine I just haven’t been... sleeping really.”

“Well, why don’t you go home? Take a sick day or something.”

---

Valerie

As Stiles headed home, I followed Scott out of the classroom, listening to him tell me about everything we missed last night. Basically that several supernaturals had been attacked by mysterious demonic ninjas that only came out at night, and apparently, they wanted more. It was hard to comprehend what exactly I had been dragged into, but it was better than not knowing.

As we walked into the main hall, two figures perked their heads up at our appearance.

“Scott, did you-“

Their eyes fell on me and they instantly fell silent. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say they looked guilty. I clenched my fists, trying to withhold my anger towards the two former alphas. I actually managed to not slam their heads together as hard as I could, so I considered it an achievement. I flashed them a sarcastic smile and spoke in the fakest happy-voice I could muster.

“Hey! Ethan, Aiden. Nice to see you again. I’m just gonna leave you with Scott and go and hang out with my real friends. You know, the ones who didn’t kill my best friend and then lie about it.” I gave them the most sarcastic salute in the world, and headed into the corridor, conveniently just running into Kira.

“Hi.”

“Hey. I was actually just looking for you. I need to show you something. It’s really important.”

“Okay,” I said, nodding and grabbing Kira’s arm to drag her into an empty classroom.

I leaned against one of the desks with Kira right beside me. “What did you want to tell me?” I asked.

Kira took her backpack off of her shoulders and opened it, pulling out a picture book. It was illustrated with beautiful cherry blossom trees on the cover, and the title read ‘Japanese Mythology: Creatures, Spirits, and Demons’.

“Have you ever heard of something called a kitsune?”

I nodded. “Yeah, they’re from Japanese mythology, right? It’s the inspiration for Vulpix and Ninetales.”

Kira nodded, understanding my Pokémon reference perfectly. She opened the book to a page she had bookmarked and then began flipping through them, illustrations of foxes with nine tales on every page.

“That looks like what happened to us at the substation,” I said, pointing at a particular picture.

Kira nodded. “Yeah. When a Kitsune rubs its tails together it can create fire or lighting.”

My eyebrows rose at the mentions of the two words, and Kira nodded, understanding what I was thinking.

“It’s called foxfire.”

“We don’t have any tails, though,” I said, making Kira laugh.

—

I was supposed to meet Scott and Kira at Scott’s house before sundown. Something about sticking together and protecting each other against the demonic ninjas. The two of them had headed there in advance, and I was headed towards the Pérezes’ house. I had left my bag at Marcel’s last night so I just needed to pick that up. I had also promised Colin an explanation for my disappearance last night, so I spent most of the journey there trying to figure out how much I was going to tell him.

When I arrived, instead of going through the front door I headed towards the garage. Julia and Marcel were at their doctor's appointment, so Colin was the only one home, and at this time I knew he was practicing with Freddie and Marcus.

I opened the side door, which was open, and stepped in just as they were finishing up a song. Colin, Freddie, and Marcus all turned towards me and smiled.

“Hey,” said Marcus, leaning into his synth.

“Hey,” I said, mirroring their smiles and walking across the room to pick up my bag, which was placed in the corner of the room. “That sounded really good. You guys are getting better.”

“Thanks,” said Colin. “You wanna join us for a couple of songs?”

“Sorry, I can’t. I gotta be somewhere before sundown.”

Colin’s brows furrowed. “Where?”

“I have other friends, you know.”

“Who? Stilinski?” Freddie’s teasing voice carried from behind the drums.

I rolled my eyes heavily. Freddie was awesome, but he could be a pain in the ass most of the time. The phrase ‘frat boy’ was probably the most accurate way to describe him. His blonde hair had been styled in a buzz cut for as long as I’d known him. He also always wore a backward SnapBack on his head.

I admired him deeply, though I would never tell him that. A couple of years back he had gotten in a car accident. No one had died, but as a result, his legs were now paralyzed. Despite now being stuck in a wheelchair for the rest of his life, he didn’t let it affect his positive attitude. He remained happy and upbeat.

He also loved to work out, since before the accident, which resulted in his upper body being super buff while his legs were pretty skinny.

“No, it’s Kira.”

“So,” said Marcus. While Colin and Freddie had known each other since 6th grade, Marcus had first met them in college. He had been really shying didn’t plan on making any friends, but after being paired together in a group project, Freddie had basically adopted him into their group, affectively breaking him out of his shell. Once they discovered their mutual love for music, they decided to start a band, and thus The Outcasts was created.

Marcus was rocking his usual jean on jean combo. He was wearing a green shirt underneath, and a badge with the trans flag on it was pinned on his chest. He was the shortest out of all of them (which wasn’t saying much), standing at just half an inch taller than me. He had dark skin, deep-set dark eyes, and his short afro was dyed blue at the tips. “Are you going to tell us what happened when you ran off with him last night?”

I shrugged. “We just broke into the Sheriff’s Station.”

As intended, their jaws dropped.

“Yeah, Kira’s phone had been taken into evidence. We just deleted a couple of pics she didn’t want the police to see. It sounded kind of thrilling, and yeah, Stilinski is still annoying but he did save my life, so I decided to give him another chance.”

Freddie raised his eyebrows. “How is it that you’re already in an on-again, off-again relationship with this guy and you’re not even dating?” Laughter broke out from all of them, including Freddie, who liked to laugh at his own jokes.

I picked up one of the spare drumsticks from a table beside me and threw it at him. He dodged it easily.

“At least I’m not still sleeping with my ex,” I quipped back. ‘Oohs’ escaped from both Colin and Marcus, making me smirk.

“Oh you’re one to talk,” said Freddie, picking up the drumstick I’d thrown at him and throwing it at Colin. “At least I’m getting some. You’re pining after a girl who’s dating your ex-boyfriend.”

Colin couldn’t help but join in on the laughter that followed.

“It’s in times like this I’m thankful for being aromantic,” said Marcus, shaking his head.

“Yeah,” I agreed. “You’re lucky.”

“Except for the fact that millions of people say I don’t exist.”

“Yeah, except for that.”

---

3rd person

“Valerie just texted,” said Kira, looking up from her phone. “She’s on her way.”

Scott nodded, double-checking that the window was closed just to have something to do.

“Can I ask you a question?” asked Kira, fiddling with the phone in her hands. “I mean, I’d ask Valerie but I have a feeling she won’t answer.”

Scott raised his eyebrows, curious as to what the question could be. “Sure.”

“What’s with her and Stiles? Does she like him? Does she think he’s annoying? Cause I’ve gotten signs that point in both directions and honestly, it’s gotten me pretty curious about it. I know it’s none of my business cause if she wanted to tell me she’d tell me, right? God, I probably shouldn’t even have asked you in the first place – just forget I said anything-”

“Kira.” Scott put a hand on her shoulder, effectively shutting her up. “Calm down, it’s not that big of a deal. I’ll tell you everything I know, just calm down.”

Kira nodded, taking a seat on the edge of Scott’s bed as he sat down beside her.

“I get why you’re confused. It’s really complicated. Even I don’t really get it and I’ve been here for all of it. I don’t even think they themselves understand their relationship right now,” said Scott, a breathy chuckle escaping his lips. “But it started out pretty simple. Valerie hated him when she moved here in fifth grade because he set her hair on fire by accident, and she spent the next few years exerting her revenge.”

Kira raised her eyebrows. “How do you accidentally set someone’s hair on fire?”

Scott shook his head. “I honestly have no idea. They were paired together in science. We were supposed to do that thing where you place a glass over a candle and it goes out because of the lack of oxygen. Well, instead of lighting the candle, he lit Valerie’s hair.”

Kira still looked confused. “But – how...?”

Scott shrugged. “It’s Stiles.

“Anyway, it was really bad. She had to go to the hospital. My mom treated her and she said she was lucky she didn’t burn her scalp. The next day in school Stiles tried apologizing to her, but Valerie started yelling at him before he had the chance. He called her hothead when she wouldn’t calm down. That nickname lasted for about a year.”

Kira flinched. “Wow, that sounds pretty bad. What happened next?”

“Well, their lives started to intertwine more when Derek turned her best friend, Erica. Uh, she’s dead now,” Scott explained. Kira’s face fell.

“Oh.”

“Yeah, but they seemed to have settled some kind of truce, or at least stopped hating each other, and for a while, it looked like they were starting to become friends. But then something happened, Valerie got mad at him again and they’ve been going back and forth ever since.”

Kira nodded. “Well, they certainly seemed to care about each other. Valerie seemed quite worried that time he had a panic attack. You know, before you saved us from the coyote. Do you think...” Kira trailed off, uncertain if she should ask the question or not.

“Do I think what?” Scott prodded.

“Do you think they like each other?” she said slowly.

“Well, I can’t speak for Valerie, but there are things about Stiles I’ve been noticing lately. Some things I didn’t think anything of at first, more in retrospect. You know how they say that love and hate are in fact very similar, and how indifference is actually the opposite of both of them?”

Kira nodded.

“It’s just that... Stiles has always cared about Valerie, even when he didn’t like her. He cared what she did and what she thought. When she acted weird or out if the ordinary he wondered what it was about. He always cared.”

“Do you think he knows?”

Scott shook his head. “Definitely not.”

“How long do you think it will take until they admit it?”

“I don’t know. But considering it’s been this long and they still won’t admit that they’re friends, we’ll probably have to wait a while.”

---

Valerie

I arrived at the McCall house at the same time as Melissa, whom I’d been informed knew everything. By the lack of surprise on her face when she spotted me, I figured Scott had told her all about me as well.

It was strange seeing Melissa outside of the hospital. I had gotten to know her really well during my friendship with Erica, seeing as Melissa had been her nurse for years. She had also filled in for my mom’s nurse a couple of times. I really liked her, but I had no idea how to act around her in these new circumstances.

The awkward hello I got from her told me she felt the same.

When we entered the house, we were met with the sight of Scott arguing with his father.

“I don’t need a warrant, I’m your father.”

“No, you’re a gene donor. I got my hair color from you, and that’s all I got. So you’re not allowed to play tough dad with me.”

“Hey, what’s going on?” asked Melissa, taking her place next to Agent McCall. I walked around them, standing next to Scott and Kira. One look at Agent McCall’s computer screen told me everything I needed to know. The screen showed a picture of Scott and Kira when they broke into the Sheriff’s Station. If McCall’s judge eyes on me told me anything, it was that he’d figured out I was distracting him that night.

His eyes went back to Scott and they continued their glaring match. “Maybe one of you should explain.”

“Scott,” Kira’s soft voice broke Scott out of it, and he followed her gaze out the window. The sun had gone down.

I looked behind us, and in the living room, a dark figure appeared. It wore a black mask and hood. Nothing except black smoke and glowing yellow eyes seemed to be hiding behind the mask. My first instinct was a mix of a dementor and a Death Eater. At least the mask didn’t have an opening at the mouth, meaning it couldn’t suck out my soul. But, it could probably slice me in half with the katana in its hand.

Agent McCall noticed the demonic ninja as well. “What the hell is this?” he asked, and then he did probably the stupidest thing he could’ve done at that moment – he approached it.

Scott looked panicked. “Dad, no! Dad, wait!”

He didn’t listen. Quicker than any of us could react, another oni materialized behind him and stabbed its sword right through his chest. Kira screamed, but I was stricken speechless.

“Dad!” Scott and Melissa ran towards Agent McCall. Melissa got down beside him to inspect his wound, and Scott turned towards the demonic ninja, eyes glowing and teeth and claws out.

The back door was kicked open and Melissa dragged Agent McCall’s body to another room. Derek Hale entered through the door, his teeth and claws out as well.

He and Scott both roared before they pounced on a demonic ninja each. Kira quickly made her way to stand by my side, taking my hand in hers. We just stood there watching the two werewolves fight, not really knowing what to do.

“Mom! The ash!” Scott called out mid-fight.

Kira and I exchanged looks as we heard the familiar sound of another one materializing behind us. We turned around slowly, but luckily, before it could do anything, it was distracted by two figures jumping through the windows, shattering them in the process. It was Ethan and Aiden.

I could come up with a million people I’d rather have rescue me than them, but I was still thankful a samurai sword wasn’t run through my chest.

Kira and I ducked behind a couch as they began fighting, nothing to do but look around and make sure we stayed out of the way.

“Mom! Do it now!” said Scott after pushing one of them out of a window. Derek pushed the final one out of the door, and Melissa ran forward and threw down a vail of grey ash by the doorframe.

The ninjas stood right outside, but they didn’t even attempt to walk through.

Kira and I exchanged looks and walked forward towards the doorframe. We started carefully reaching our hands out, and before I could stick it out of the doorframe, an invisible barrier pushed it back. The same thing happened with Kira.

I felt Aiden’s heavy gaze on me, so I turned to him, giving him a death glare that immediately made him look away. He exchanged a look with Ethan from across the room, before turning towards Kira.

“It’s Kira, right?” That coward was looking at her now. He was looking at poor, innocent Kira who was afraid of them both, because he was too scared to look me in the eye. “So, are you gonna tell us what you are?”

“Aiden,” said Ethan warningly.

“No, look,” he said to his brother, before taking a hold of Kira’s wrist. He had only managed to bring it up a couple of inches before I growled at him.

“Get your hands off of her.” My hand flew up to wrap around the wrist that was holding Kira’s. I could feel the back of my eyes heating up as they glowed. Aiden quickly drew his wrist out of my grip, releasing Kira’s in the process. A burn mark had appeared in the shape of a hand around his wrist. It sizzled for a moment before it started to heal.

I blinked, as if coming out of a daze. I had not meant to do that, and the fact that I did could only mean one thing. My powers were getting stronger, and I had no idea how to control them.

God, I did not need this right now. I had too much going on already, I couldn’t risk accidentally revealing myself or worse – hurting someone I cared about. At least they only seemed to be coming out when I was angry, which was... all the time.

I looked at the shocked faces around me. I didn’t give a damn about Ethan and Aiden (in fact, I was happy with them being scared of me), but it hurt to see Kira look at me like that.

“See that?” said Aiden, still rubbing at his wrist. I hope it hurt. “What are you guys?”

“They’re kitsunes, idiot.”

Derek Hale entered the room.

“Use your eyes. You can see it all around them. The younger ones give off an aura. They just haven’t learned how to conceal it yet.”

I rolled my eyes. “Yeah, we haven’t had much time for that. We pretty much found out about this today.”

Derek chuckled. “She probably doesn’t know what kind she is either,” he said, looking at Kira. “But that one,” he pointed at me, “is definitely a fire one.”

“Well spotted.”

---

“Allison, please tell me you have something,” Scott spoke into the phone. “They’re here, they’re trying to get in, and it looks like they’re gonna be able to.”

“Okay, okay, listen. They’re Japanese demons. They’re called the oni. They’re looking for someone possessed. Someone with a dark spirit attached to them. Also known as a nogitsune or a dark kitsune.”

Scott nodded, casting a nervous glance towards Kira and I. “Okay, tell me, what else?”

“Okay, they won’t hurt you. They know you’re supernatural but once they do this check, once they realize that you’re not carrying with you this dark spirit, then they won’t hurt you. I promise. All they’re looking for is the nogitsune.”

Scott mumbled a quick goodbye and hung up.

“I’m right, aren’t I?” said Kira. “They’re looking for me.”

“Oh please Kira,” I said. ”You’re a literal angel. It’s way more likely that it’s me they’re looking for. You saw what just happened. I didn’t mean to do that.”

Scott shook his head. “They’re looking for a dark spirit, and I know that’s not either of you.”

“Scott,” Derek called out warningly, ”we’re gonna have to do something!” And just then the oni broke through the magic barrier. One at a time, they stepped through the door, keeping their eyes on Scott, Kira and I.

“Don’t do anything,” said Scott. He moved with the same confidence and authority as he did when he saved Kira and I from the coyote. It was hard not to trust him when he did that.

“Is he serious?!” asked Aiden, apparently not feeling the same as I.

Three of the oni stepped forward, leaving the other ones by the door.

“I said, don’t do anything.” He spoke with even more authority now. He turned towards us, reaching out his hand to hold Kira’s.

“Trust me.”

Kira and I exchanged a quick glance, just to make sure we were on the same page, before nodding. I took Kira’s other hand and we walked forward towards the oni.

I looked into the eyes of the one in front of me. Like yellow glowing beads, they reminded me of fireflies, which was quite strange. I masked my fear with a face of bravery as the oni reached its hand out and placed it under my chin, its index finger right behind my ear.

The oni’s ‘check’ was hard to describe. It didn’t hurt, but it was anything but pleasant. A coldness seeped through my whole body, all the way into my bones. The oni seemed to be sucking all of the power out of my body through its index finger. Maybe I wasn’t so far off with my dementor comparison.

I fell down on my knees, but the oni kept a firm grip on my chin. As it continued to drain me of my power, I felt a burning sensation behind my ear, which, surprisingly, was the least horrible part.

The oni released its grip on me and I fell limp to the floor.

(not my gif)

taglist: @idontgiveahufflefuck64 @woyee

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sweetdeathwrites · 5 years

Text

Hurt

Donnie Darko/Reader

Word Count: 1,940

Warnings: angst, discussion of death, possible suicide mention, confessions... just Donnie Darko

Summary:

I hurt myself today

Wherein, you and Donnie contemplate death...

to see if I still feel

... and experience the side effects of living.

I focus on the pain / the only thing that’s real

A/N: !! ok i know I promised Mystery fic and it is IN THE WORKS but I needed more Jake Gyllenhaal so i watched Donnie Darko for the first time and,... dare i say, I fell in LOVE. he’s EXACTLY my terrible, awful, fucked up type, and young JG is so cute!... uhg

this is a loose character exploration / vague vent fic / exploration of death / me wanting to hang with Donnie Darko – the beginning was inspired by NIN’s Hurt but it got away from me and settled into something kinder at the end. also i wanna....... kiss that dumb gorgeous face... anyway enjoy and please leave a comment!

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

“Donnie? Do you ever think of what it would be like to be dead?”

Donnie raises his eyes over the edge of his book.

“All the time.”

You pick at your nails and let your head fall slowly over his legs. “Me too.”

Donnie goes back to his book. He tries to. But the way your rest over his lap, he can see how deep the curve of your spine is, how your ass is propped up right next to him, how you lay, face down and tangled in his legs... You’re distracting. You’re distracting him.

Misery can wait.

“Did you want to talk about it?” He asks, dog-earring his page and setting it aside. “Or were you just thinking out loud?”

You hum and sigh rolling over on your back. Donnie knows you’re uncomfortable because the way your elbows dig into his thighs is sore for him, and he doesn’t want to think about the damage his knees are doing to your back. But you don’t move. Instead, you close your eyes.

Peaceful, but painful, Donnie thinks. Sums you up very nicely.

“I think,” you drawl, finally arching up and off him to face him. His hand moves to rest casually on your thigh, but he put a conscious effort to make it seem so. To make it natural. “That death is the coziest, comfiest little hole I could ever crawl in.”

Donnie’s face scrunches up. “That sounds like it sucks.”

Now, it’s your turn to be disgruntled. “Why? It’s cool.”

Donnie leans in, hands coming to interlace themselves under his chin. He misses how you follow his movement. “Because,” he says, “That would be so lonely.”

“I didn’t say it wasn’t,” you sit up fully. Your leg draw in– and you and Donnie Darko are now totally separate people, not tangled, not touching. Not connected. “I also didn’t say you had to be alone. You can have family around you, right? But wouldn’t that be terrible?”

Donnie doesn’t say anything, watching you try to translate your feelings into language. Into something he could understand. And that’s all he really wants– to be understood. To be understood by you. For you to let him understand you in return.

“Well, it’s just– everything goes away in the end. I could’ve been a saint, gave away all my shit, and been just the sweetest little fucker in the whole wide world, but what would that get me? Or, I could be a greedy little fuck and nothing would ever happen to me, nothing that really lasts. Nothing that really matters. Who’s gonna remember that in a hundred years? I’m still gonna be in a pine box, being the combo with fries and a drink for a bunch of worms,” you explain, picking at your nails faster now. Sliding your nails into the opposing nail bed, cleaning it, scratching it, hurting it. “I’m not Caesar. I’m not Confucius. I’m just me.”

Donnie swallows and the walls of his bedroom seem to breathe and shiver around him.

“Hey, are you okay?”

Shimmering, tightening, strangling wallpaper.

“It’s just pointless,” you ignore him, “to worry about anything at all. Alone, not alone, what’s the difference. We all go together when we go, you know? At least, it all ends the same... Everything moves so fast and everyone wants so many stupid, impossible things, and death, it… it just seems so peaceful. Quiet.” Your breath hitches. “Dark.”

Donnie wants to lean in. Wants to touch you. There’s an air around you that pushes him away, and it’s funny; he knows everything about you, every part of you, and still you push him away. You hurt yourself like this a lot.

Donnie touches you.

He touches your forearm, moving to his knees to be closer to you.

“I don’t think that’s true,” he says and slowly dances his fingers along your arm. “I don’t think that’s true at all.”

There’s a kind of foxfire in your eyes that burns bright and hateful when he says that. Burns because he dare disagree with you, the Donnie you trusted dares to take away that bit of serenity you had. Before you can pull away, Donnie continues, tries to open the air and make the walls fall away.

“I think it matters to have people around you. My therapist–” Donnie says, laughing a little because since when did he give out her advice? “My therapist, she says that what’s important is the relationships we have. The feelings we experience. What other people make us feel, and what we make them feel. That we die alone but we touch the lives of those around us. That’s what keeps us from being by ourselves, at the core of it all… I don’t want to be alone, and I don’t think you want to be alone either.”

“It doesn’t matter–”

“But it does. If you di– if something happened to you, I’d miss you.” Donnie says quietly. His fingers have travelled over the backs of your hands, and he makes a choice. Donnie carefully pushes his fingers to your hand, threads through the spaces where your fingers aren’t. He holds you warm, firm, and just a little scared.

“I wouldn’t be here in a hundred years. No one would write about me, either. But I’d think of you. I’d think of you every day.”

His parents have gone to sleep. His sisters are in their own rooms, dreaming away of all the fun and action that girls dream. The house is quiet and the neighborhood is still except for the occasional dog whine and the silken rustle of the wind through trees. Donnie can hear his heartbeat and he wonders if you can hear it too.

He kind of wants you to. If you hear it, maybe you could understand him a little better. He’s afraid, right now. He’s afraid but he’s excited. He wants you to know that, too.

You speak finally, small as a mouse and hand limp under his. “You’d think about me?”

“I think about you now,” he admits. “I don’t think that would change.”

“Oh,” you say, and nothing else.

Donnie is about to pull away from you. Of course he would fuck this up. You matter too much.

“I think about you, too.”

“You do?”

“Yeah,” you say.

“Why?”

You laugh and it’s bitter. “How should I know? I just think about you.”

“Well,” Donnie says, moving closer on his bed to you, pushing Misery out of the way. “I know why I think about you.”

“Do tell,” you say with a slight purr, trying to gain control over the conversation. Donnie knows control is important to you. That you need it. He takes a deep breath, and resigns to the thought that you would just have to let go of control long enough for him to fuck up your friendship beyond repair.

“I think about you a lot. And remember what I said about my therapist, about making people feel a certain way around you? Well,” Donnie clears his throat and tries to make this the least embarrassing way possible. “You make me feel good. I think about that, when I think about you.”

Your eyes widen and he feels your hand come to life under him, not exactly holding him back, but brushing against him.

“I like you,” Donnie says.

He didn’t lie about that. He also didn’t lie about how you make him feel good– but he doesn’t want to delve into the implications of that right now. He meant your friendship and care for him meant a lot– not that you give him physical pleasure… but that’s not something he would honestly be able to deny. He’s attracted to you. He’s thought about you, while he lies in bed with nothing to do and a frustration to kill.

“I like you a lot.”

You tense up.

Then let yourself have a moment of sweetness. Just one moment where you don’t punish yourself.

The walls open up.

You turn Donnie’s palm over and squeeze, bringing it into your lap. Then, you lean in and kiss him.

Your lips slide over his, and the kiss itself is dry and unsure. As soon as you kiss him, Donnie reciprocates with an immediate passion, bringing his free hand up to cup the back of your head and press you closer to him.

Then, the kiss turns into something else. You don’t realize your eyes are closed until they bug open when Donnie pulls you up into him, nearly into his lap. You let loose a surprised moan before melting back into the kiss, and he groans loud and filthy at that. Your hands untangle from his to cling to his chest but the movement sends you off balance– the two of you careen into his pillows, and he rolls on top of you before the collapse.

For some reason, the entire situation is absurd. It feels funny, sticky like a honey that won’t leave your fingers; you feel dizzy and lightheaded from all the impossible feelings Donnie’s given you.

“Fuck,” Donnie laughs, “I can’t tell you how long I’ve wanted to do that.”

“I like you a lot too, Donnie,” you throw your head back and bubbles of laughter spill from your chest, “I really like you, too.”

“So,” Donnie leans over you and his breath warms your lips, “what does this mean?”

Are we going together? He wants to ask, but he can’t. You have control now. It’s important to you. You’re important to him.

“Hmm,” you hum. You arch up to kiss him again and he obliges, pressing into you with warmth and heat. His lips move smoothly over yours, a suck here, a touch of teeth there– you’re delighted to find he’s such a good kisser. You wonder if he’s had much practice.

Donnie’s hand finds your waist and the thought crosses his mind that it looks beautiful on you. He does. Framing the picture of you with himself, a burst of fondness presses through the teenage lovesick haze at the forefront of his mind. He leans down closer, his forearm above your head bent and fingers tangling with your hair, guiding the kiss in ways that squeeze pretty little sounds out of you. Sounds that fill him with pride and desire to make you make more of them.

Your hands are crossed around his back, tracing sweetness over his shoulder blades, when the wet and smooth of his tongue slides through the seam of your lips and you gasp. It pulls you away from the kiss, smiling. Donnie doesn’t pull away. Instead, he follows you down into the pillows and watches how you smile, the light that fills your face. He presses a sneaky kiss or two to the corner of your lips and jaw.

His hair hangs softly over his eyes and you run your hands through it, brushing it up and away to see his face. His blue eyes are frosted over but he looks at you with such warmth and softness; if he looked at you this way, just moments before… Without a declaration, without a kiss, without him lowering his defences so you could lower yours– the softness in his eyes would have killed you.

Before, you would have pushed him away. Iced him out and started the whole, self-punishing dance all over again.

Now, you let yourself hold his face. He turns his head to kiss your palm, but his gaze doesn’t leave you for a second. You sigh with a peace you thought you’d never feel.

“I think this means,” you kiss him once more, “We don’t have to be alone.”

#donnie darko #donnie darko x reader #donnie darko/reader #donnie darko fanfic #donnie darko fanfiction #jake gyllenhaal #jake gyllenhaal movies #fanfiction #fanfic

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a-lonely-tatertot · 4 years

Text

Linhella drabble

This is my first writing piece on here so here ya go! This is my first contrabution to Pride Month and will probably have more before the month’s out!

Shit, shit, shit, I thought. I could feel my insides burning, I could barely concentrate on what I was doing. Running, that was it, feet pounding, heart trying to break out of my chest, everything on fire. Nonononono, I couldn’t lose control, I couldn’t hurt anyone. Weaving in between trees, one thought, keep running. I could feel it pouring out of me, the fire getting brighter- hotter. If it wasn’t scorching hot, I would be crying. Sobbing probably, because I couldn’t stop it. I didn’t want to hurt anyone, I really didn’t, but I couldn’t protect them either. Barely registering it, I collapsed, hoping I was far enough away.

“Linh! Over here!” I heard a distant voice yell. Linh. No, not her, please no, I begged. I forced my eyes to open, my voice was too dry to speak. If I couldn’t stop her with words, hopefully, she would see that I couldn’t stop it. God if I hurt her- I stopped myself, squeezing my eyes shut. Don’t think. Don’t don’t don’t don’t- SPLASH! Szzzz. The sound of a dying fire. A flash of silver and black and blue. No! I wanted to scream, tell her to run. I didn’t want her to get hurt! But then her face came into my view and she looked so determined. My heart stopped for a second. Fucking emotions, I thought. Her eyebrows were furrowed, her hair was flying around her like a halo (I really didn’t need any more confirmation that she was a literal angel), she was fighting the fire with water. I knew at that point I wasn’t going to get her to go, the sheer look of determination in her face could’ve told me that, but the way she fought the fire around her, daring it to come near only to snuff it out showed it.

“Marella!” she yelled, weaving water through the flames drowning the fire. “Marella!”

“Linh!” the voice- Maruca called from behind me, “She’s over here!”

Great, more people to watch me have an epic mental breakdown and burn an entire fucking forest, exactly what I need, I thought bitterly. That was all I could do, sit there helplessly while my friends put out my fire because I couldn’t stop it. Fucking wonderful. Oh, and my crush looks hot as hell, just add it to the three-page long list of problems in my life. Linh’s eyes scanned what was remaining of the fires and finally landed on me. Her eyes widened and she started running towards me. Oh hey, my heart skipped like three beats this time. A wave of weariness washed over me. My eyelids started to get heavier. The edges of my vision blurred and the last thing I saw before the world went dark was Linh’s smile and teary eyes.

I woke up in the Healing Center at Foxfire. I sat up so fast my vision blurred for a moment but it didn’t matter. “Where’s Linh?” I half-shouted glancing around the room.

“Good morning to you too,” Elwin said from the door to his office. I raised my eyebrow and gave him my best I’m-tired-and-done look. He sighed. “She left for the bathroom a minute ago after I finally convinced her to go. She’s been here the entire time you were out,” he explained. My heart did this weird summersault-backflip-handstand routine at the thought of her staying. Swinging my legs over the side of the bed I went to get up- and crumbled to the ground as soon as I put my weight on my legs.

“What the-” I muttered sitting on the floor.

“Standing might not be the best-” Elwin started when the door burst open and Linh ran to my side immediately fussing over me.

“You idiot,” she said hugging me, “I thought you were gonna get hurt or worse and you looked so tired when I brought you back here and why did you try to stand-”

“Linh,” I whispered wrapping my arms around her. “I’m okay. I can’t be hurt by fire.” She always seemed to forget that, quite honestly it was adorable. Finally, she pulled away and helped me up. I glanced over her shoulder to see Elwin give me a small smile before disappearing back into his office. Wow, thanks for leaving me alone with the extremely cute girl that won’t stop fussing over me very helpful, I mentally cursed him.

After a lot of “I’m okay”s and fighting to not blush I got Linh to calm down and sit next to me. She was silent for a while, staring at a tile on the floor studying every part of it. At first, it was nice, the silence, but then it felt heavy, daunting like it was a void of all the things we didn’t want to talk about. Trust me, that would be a big void. I found myself staring at her, not for the first time, definitely not for the last. I was trying to decide if I liked the silver tips of her hair or the sheer beauty of her eyes more when I realized she was looking back at me. For the ten hundredth time, I fought down the heat that desperately wanted to rise to my cheeks and glanced away fixing my eyes on the tile like it held the secrets of the universe. “Marella,” Linh said softly, god why did my name have to sound so good on her lips? I thought desperately, before trying to stop myself from thinking about her lips. “Marella,” she said again, she was grabbing my face gently making me look at her. If she was anyone else I would’ve told her not to touch my hair. And yet I was sitting there, at a loss for words, staring at her bright imploring eyes.

“Yes?” I said weakly. I noticed how close we were. Her knee was brushing mine, our faces only a few inches apart, her hands in my hair. I was a bisexual mess.

“Can-” she paused, looking suddenly nervous. She took her hands off my face and hair and I was sad at the loss of warmth. Linh quickly glanced away from my face and back before talking again. “Can I tell you something?”

I was suddenly nervous too, well more nervous. I didn’t let myself think about what she could be worried about, that was a hope that I couldn’t bear to have. Her hands were moving in her lap and I reached out to hold them still. “You can tell me anything,” I said quietly, hoping that there was some shred of confidence in my voice. Linh smiled briefly, it was small but dazzling.

“I-” she closed her eyes for a beat, “I like you.” And suddenly everything was loud, very loud. I didn’t register that I stopped breathing, I didn’t notice that Linh had taken her hands out of my grasp. I just sat there, frozen. A million different apologize tumbled out of her mouth, she was shaking her head. Why was she shaking her head? Why was she apologizing? Without thinking (my brain had short-circuited as soon as she said those words), without hesitating, I grabbed her face, it was wet, I think she was crying and kissed her. Linh gasped as my lips crashed on to hers, but she kissed me back and the world seemed to be so bright. Her lips was soft and I tried not to think about how chapped mine were. Linh’s hands found their way into my hair again and I really really didn’t want to stop. But yet human necessities, like air and the need to breathe, sometimes get in the way of what you want. I slowly broke the kiss and not opening my eyes, I leaned my forehead against hers. We sat there, trying to slow our breaths for a minute.

“So…” Linh whispered breaking the silence. She was looking at me with this look in her eyes. I couldn’t tell what it was, fondness? Surprise? Happiness? Maybe a mix. At once everything that had happened came crashing down on me. I kissed her, and I didn’t ask.

“I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to- I didn’t even ask- I couldn’t think so I just-” I was cut off my Linh’s soft lips on mine. I melted into it. She pulled back after a second with a huge grin.

“Marella will you be my girlfriend?” she asked.

“I’m sorry was the kissing not enough for a yes?” I said laughing.

After a few last-minute checkups, I was clear to go. Linh grabbed my hand (she really liked holding my hand) and practically dragged me out the door. I took one last glance at Elwin who gave me a small thumbs-up before letting my girlfriend drag me off to where ever she wanted.

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1473 words, like I said I’m going to be posting more stuff like this and if you want to you can send me a kotlc ship and a prompt! Also I have this hc that Elwin has started shipping the kids that end up in his office. (I’m only doing kotlc stuff right now to make it easier!)

#marellinh #linhella #marella redek #lihn song #kotlc #kotlc pride month #keeper of the lost cities #kotlc elwin #tater writes

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atethewriting · 4 years

Text

Two Healers And A Fire Mage: The Fourth

This is a collaborative project with @jongins-laceglove. We hope you enjoy the fourth part of this, as we work very hard on it.

“What I saw wasn’t the feather...what I saw...I saw our death.” Mark nervously sobbed, clenching his fists out of frustration.

Chenle shook his head where he stood next to Jisung, shaking his head and scoffing.

“Please, I’m NOT going to die.” He looked at Yixing and Minseok, a slight look of worry in his eyes. “Besides... it’s not like this is the first time he’s molted, and he hasn’t done anything that would insinuate that.. right?”

Yixing nodded to no one in particular, seemingly deep in thought. “Yeah, right.. which is why I don’t understand.”

He looked up to Chenle, about to add something to that thought- but froze when he saw Jisung sniffling as he clung to Chenle, who’s tail was lazily wrapped around his waist protectively.

“What are you doing here Jisung?! You’re supposed to be with Renjun!” He fumed, jumping up from his spot and stomping over to him.

“I-I’m Sorry, Yixing..” he said, looking away nervously. “I just..” he took a shaky breath “a strange man who goes by Johnny.. he’s from Xymore, I guess... and I figured that was a good enough reason to come back.” He said as his hand nervously clenched and unclenched on Chenle’s hip.

Yixing nodded reluctantly, deciding that was a good enough deciding to pull out his chapstick, applying a few layers and wandering back to his spot on the floor.

And, speaking of the devil, Johnny entered the cabin with a strange look in his eye. He quickly glanced at the group before allowing the youngest Fairy and the peppermint deer to enter.

The guard bowed politely, a nervous smile on his face.

“I would take shelter,” He spoke darkly, closing the door behind him, “We saw a forest fire coming from the Eastside. It’s quick, we have to hurry.”

Thud.

“HOLY FUCK HE’S DEAD,” Haechan yelled, looking at an unconscious Mark, who was now on the floor.

One by one, everyone dropped like flies. First Mark, then Chanyeol, Johnny, Jaehyun, Suho, Baekhyun, Fairy Jisung, Mouse Jisung, tiger Chenle, porcelain Renjun, and Minseok. Only 3 remained, that being Peppermint, Haechan, and Yixing.

Chenle, too tired to process anything at the moment, clung to Yixing and fell back to sleep.

Yixing sighed in exasperation, the stress finally catching up to him as he carried Chenle over to the couch so he can sleep more peacefully.

“Are you kidding me?! Why can’t we just get a break!”

He walked tiredly over to the open front door, deciding to walk outside.

His eyes widened as he saw a ball of fire seemingly shrink- before it imploded, and oh god there was a giant wall of fire coming straight for them.

He quickly pulled a forcefield around himself and the house, so as to try and keep everyone as safe as possible.

“FUCK!” He screamed, collapsing as he felt his insides burn do to the heat as it finally reached them- the flames licking at the barrier he put up.

And, just as soon as it started, it was over.

《㊂》

Renjun shuddered as he awoke, freezing. He looked up to the sky, his eyes taking in beautiful moon and stars in the sky.

“Huh... I wonder how long I was asleep? Oh well.”

He sat up, looking around for clothes to wear- as he had burned all of his and noticing the way the lake bubbles and leg of steam.

Groaning, he stretched as he moved to walk across the rock path in the water.

As he was about to leave the clearing- he noticed a bag of clothes with a note taped to it.

‘These are in case you finish your molting when we’re away and incapable of helping you out- sorry if we are gone.

-Yixing’

He chortled at this, folding up the note and slipping it into the pouch on the front of the bag before he pulled out the close and put them on.

He picked up the bag, sliding it over his shoulder and nearly completely missing the glowing, levitating feather that sat above the lake.

He scoffed, thinking he was hallucinating. He rubbed his eyes, and walked closer to the lake- picking up a rock and throwing it at the feather to test it, his eyes widening as the rock disintegrated.

He jumped when he heard Chanyeol’s voice in his head “Hey! You wake up?”

He looked around, trying to see where he was.

“Chanyeol-?”

“No, I’m not a ghost. By the way, everyone passed out when you completed your molting process!” His voice echoed, all too cheery for Renjun’s liking.

“What the hell? You sound happy about that.. anyways, what did you want?”

Chanyeol let out a hearty sigh. “Well.. we’re all kind of concerned. Some nonsense about the legend of this Phoenix feather and it destroying worlds and stuff.. but anyways, I think the house almost burnt down.. we all got knocked out, but I think we’re gonna wake up soon- considering I can communicate with you.”

Renjun stared at the feather with wariness swimming in his eyes. He shook his head, and his wings suddenly appeared, and he took a running start, leaping into the air and flying up to grab the feather.

He thought it’d burn, but surprisingly it didn’t.

He hovered there for a second, noticing how eerily quiet it was aside from the sound of his own wings. He looked at the rings of fire that spread out from where he sat- and he was shocked. Had he done this? Was this his fault? Well... only one way to find out.

He suddenly went higher up, and turning and taking off in the direction of his cabin.

Haechan stepped outside, looking at the ash that flew up from the ground and the fire that surrounded them. The Fairy went to the very edge of the force field, splicing a part of it open.

The fire raged in his face, screaming and crying. The fire had a soul, every fire does.

“It’s scared,” Haechan allowed the flames to flare around his body, yet he remained completely calm. “From what I know...Ah, yes. Phoenixiven, goddess of wood and fire. You’re her pack of beagles, aren’t you?. You don’t have to be afraid, little ones,” He then sliced open more of the force field, the flames swirling around him as they calmed. The mage giggled as fire pressed against his skin, falling down as 17 beagles - completely made of fire - jumped around him. “Honeysap, Foxfire, Lastgate...they’re all here. Whoa...”

Minseok squinted, sitting up and holding his head as he tried to calm his racing mind, looking around and saw several others doing the same.

Chanyeol shook his head, trying to get focused before his eyes went white for a second as he tried to locate Renjun.

“He should be here momentarily.” He announced loudly as shifted to grab Baekhyun’s sleeve, tugging him to the corner to talk to him about something.

Minseok could hear, of course, what with his Griffin hearing.

He felt wrong for eavesdropping- for a few seconds, at least.

“Listen, baek... When we were regaining our consciousness, I was able to contact Renjun..”

He ears Baekhyun let out an acknowledging hum.

“I think... I think I saw that feather.. you know, the one they’re saying eradicated that world?” He heard Chanyeol whisper with a shaky voice.

Minseok looked over to him in shock in horror, and Chanyeol caught it, clearing his throat and walking away awkwardly but still managing to do so quickly.

Yixing walked back outside from checking on the others to see Haechan with- wait, were those fire dogs-? How,, odd... anyways, his attention was suddenly pulled away when he saw Renjun whoosh past them- trying to find a good place to land.

He was so happy to see that he’d survived, for a second there he really thought he’d died...

He let the forcefield down, and Renjun landed, almost immediately, right in front of him with a giant smile.

Mark weakly sat up. Small, pained creaks moved through the darkly colored floorboards, moaning softly for help. The Elf felt his chest wildly heat up like he was being stabbed from the inside of his body. That heat clawed up his body and through his throat, being set free. Mark collapsed once more as he saw his entire life flash before his eyes.

And then, nothing.

「四」「四」「四」

A grim whisper in Mark’s ear caused him to jolt awake, his eyes were wide and fearful. Black shadows scattered around the empty house, laughing and mocking.

Her lips were painted heavily with darkly twisted malice, red stripes falling down her chin. The woman sat on Mark’s lap, her golden eyes burning into his forehead. Hair made of flames tightly tied into a messy bun atop her head. Along with big, tan, ram horns curled on the side. She didn’t speak a word.

“Uhm...hi?” Mark questioned, the pounding headache he had hissing at him.

The woman held up a rope, red with blood and anxiety. Behind her, a monster as black as licorice with a smile as grim as death. Glass fell from the ceiling and melted into the floor while every shadow and monster slowly disappeared.

Buildings as exquisite and tall reached up through the ground, collapsing the cabin they were in. The rubble then sank into the glass undergrowth, leaving the woman and elf in an endless city of sand and glass.

“Do you...recognize this place?” She spoke, her voice broken and laced with bad intent.

“Yeah, but I can’t tell you where I’ve seen it.”

“Mark, Mark my dear...this is your mind. Do you not recognize...me?”

“I don’t...sorry...” He flinched as the woman reached her hand up to his face, cupping his left cheek softly. Tears, red with sorrow, fell down her fragile skin.

“How nice it is to see you once more...”

“I don’t know, lady. I think you’ve got the wrong Mark. I’ve never seen you in my life.”

“Mark...Mark...”

“What? What?”

“Come on Mark...wake up!”

A flash of light covered his eyes before he slowly awoke from a deep slumber. His entire group of friends all surrounded him, including a very unhappy looking Suho. He was currently on the couch under a soft quilt.

“Mmmm...” Mark groaned, squinting.

“He’s alive!!” Peppermint yelled, running over to our Phoenix and tugging him towards Mark. “Come on, Renjun, say hi!!!”

Renjun smiled at him, walking over to the couch slowly.

“Are you okay?” He muttered, sitting down on the floor next to him.

Yixing inhaled, wanting to say something- probably a really in-depth medical description, which none of them wanted to deal with at the moment.

All of them glared at Yixing, the poor unicorn shrunk in on himself, resorting to just fussing over Mark in the background.

The Elf sat up. His entire world spun, flashing lights spotted his vision. The woman with malice lips stood in the corner of that room. Even though he was very low on strength, Mark shot up at the sight of the woman and stumbled over to the corner where she resided. Blinking, she began to disappear, small whispers leaving Mark’s mouth as he collapsed once more. Luckily, Xiaojun caught him.

“He’s weak. I would suspect he’s close to death. Yixing, do you know his health status at the moment? Is that why you’re worrying?” Jaehyun boomed in his regular confident voice, “Is he low on magic?”

Yixing nodded absent-mindedly, trying to figure out how to help.

Something in his brain clicked, and he stared at the way Mark wobbled, eyes going back and forth between him and the Sosto that refused to leave his side.

“You guys said that these little guys were extinct on Xymore, right..? Why is that...” he mumbled thoughtfully, vaguely gesturing to the small creature.

Jaehyun’s expression grew dark, as well as Haechan’s and Jisung’s. In fact, everyone from Xymore suddenly seemed increasingly annoyed by the comment. An eerie silence filled the room, being broken by Haechan.

“Why would it matter to you?” The fairy growled, “Stop being so nosy.”

“How about you stop being so suspicious?” A dark figure in the doorway spoke, his voice twisted with ignorance and selfishness.

Sharp eyes peered around the room, landing on our very poor Porcelain Boy. The man grinned. He looked familiar, and that’s because he was. His doppelgänger was right in front of him, nervously shaking.

“God. All of your fucking thoughts are cowardly. Especially yours,” He pointed to Porcelain, nearing closer. Black ropes reached out of the man’s long, cloth sleeve, wrapping around Renjun’s porcelain body.

It was quick.

A scream and he was gone. Renjun was dead. A pile of his broken body rests on the floor.

The man then bowed with an innocent smile, sending shivers down even the toughest of spines.

“Hello!~ I’m Lay!~ Well, this group is awfully lively! Thank you for catching me up in your minds, I may have an idea as to where this friend of yours is. I believe I even know his name! Kai, does that ring a bell?”

Yixing sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.

“Really? You’ve got to be fucking kidding me. Now we have to deal with two me’s too..” he mumbled, agitated and stressed.

Other than Yixing’s momentary outburst, there were no other noises or sounds- until Renjun let out a sudden choked sob.

Renjun was on the ground, slumped over next to Renjun as his trembling hands caressed his face, tears soaking his neck and chest.

He glared up at Lay, his eyes burning a blood-red as he stood up on wobbly legs, trembling in fury.

“You dare come to MY house... KILL someone in it... and mention THAT bastard’s name..” he spits on the floor in front of Lay- making Yixing wince.

Chanyeol jumped and shrieked as he heard a loud explosion from outside- and when he checked to see what it was, his eyes widened in fear.

“I-um, Minseok? There’s kind of a big wall of fire-“ Chanyeol was cut off by Renjun’s furious scream, as his entire body was suddenly overtaken in flames, and the whole house tumbled and shook.

Renjun’s knees buckled from underneath him, and he passed out after burning over half of the massive forest in one fell swoop.

Haechan quickly sprung into action, running outside and staring at the massive forest fire. The Fairy ran straight into the heart of it, calming the flames before they got even angrier.

A large, fiery bull formed out of the disaster. It looked pissed, to say the least. Haechan backed away into the clearing, where the bull charged him.

Meanwhile in the cabin. . .

Jaehyun held Lay in a tight chokehold, hot tears brimming from his eyes. A million colorful emotions spilled out of the man’s soft lips, painting a field of sunflowers and lilacs on an eggshell canvas. Lay was violently flung into the ground, not a single word leaving his mouth. Jaehyun’s expression then softened, peering around the room to make sure everyone was okay. Mark and Renjun were not, but that could easily be solved with a good nap.

“How dare you speak that forbidden name in this household. Do us a favor and get the h- I can’t. I’m...I’m...we need you...unfortunately. Just...stay on your best behavior or I’ll kill you as many times as I need to.” Jaehyun sighed, making his way over to our Phoenix, whomst lay on the floor in sorrow. He lightly shook him awake, finally making up his mind. “Someone find a way to wake Mark up. I have an idea.”

Xiaojun rest Mark on the ground, where his Sosto sat on his chest. It barked and turned a glowing gold, cuddling into the Elf. Slowly but surely, he became conscious, sitting up and hugging the ball of fluff.

“We need to divide into teams. Haechan isn’t here right now but we’ll inform him later. Each team will have a different job. Now, I did the math and figured we now have 16 people. That would be four groups of four. Team 1 will consist of Deer Chenle, Mouse Jisung, Baekhyun, and Johnny. Team 2 will be me, Xiaojun, Renjun, and Yixing. Team 3 will be Haechan, Mark, Lay, and Minseok. Team 4 will be everyone else,” Jaehyun spoke, very confident in his idea, “I plan to get out tomorrow morning, if possible. The reason I’m splitting into teams is that small groups work better. T1 will scout out an area to do this procedure. T2: find and retrieve that feather. T3, your job is to give any warning that danger is on its way. And T4, you guys will stay with T3 in case the danger is there and now. How does that sound?”

They nodded, listening to Jaehyun intently.

Jisung clapped his hands, swiftly bouncing around the room excitedly.

“When do we start?” He chirped out, before squeaking as Baekhyun practically attacked him, a blur of claws and hissing.

Chanyeol rolled his eyes before reaching down, grabbing Baekhyun by the back of his shirt and pulling him up.

Minseok cleared his throat, pushing himself off the wall from the corner where he stood previously.

“I have a few friends that I trust I might be able to call... If you think it’d even help.” He muttered half-heartedly, averting his gaze from the crowd of people.

“We could use extra people on team 4, can they fight?” Jaehyun smiled, helping Lay off of the ground.

Haechan entered back inside, dragging two men by the hair. He had a tighter grip on the one with longer hair.

“I found these fuckers.”

“Let us go, idiot!” One of them snapped at the Fairy’s hand, causing him to let go.

The other only snarled and glared, trying to shake his way out, which he eventually did.

“Never thought I’d see the day that Yuta and WinWin would tolerate each other like this,” Johnny laughed, while Mark and Peppermint seemed unamused.

“Yah, what are they doing here?” The younger sassed towards a very confused Yuta. A certain glare in Peppermint’s one eye spoke horrible and violent anger. It was an emotion that Life children rarely ever felt. But, here it was, knocking on Life’s front door. “Why should a Witch hunter and a thief like him ever step foot into a place like this?”

Sicheng snarled at the deer, about to lunge at him to claw out his only eye before Yuta grabbed his wrist and purred at him, trying (and barely succeeding) to calm him down.

Minseok scoffed that them and walked lazily to Renjun’s coffee machine to make them both shots of espresso.

Yuta eyed him, his cat ears twitching in anticipation whine Sicheng followed him in a daze.

Minseok tsked, looking over his shoulder to announce over the noise- “Everyone, these are two of the people I mentioned just earlier, Sicheng and Yuta.” He jumped, turning back to his coffee making and walked Sicheng on the head when he tried to grab his shot a little too soon.

Mouse Jisung popped his head into the kitchen, curious.

“Why does he... listen to you?” He questioned softly as he watched Sicheng make a show of baring his teeth and growling but backing off.

“Well.. they’re both bobcat hybrids, but Sicheng has absolutely no restraint whatsoever,” Minseok grumbled through gritted teeth, handing them their shots of espresso.

He turned back to face Jisung, wiping his hands off on a towel.

“But luckily for me, he calms down after you put him in his place in a ‘show of dominance’, Which is basically just fancy talk for ‘whoever can kick his ass can control his temper.’ They're also both suckers for coffee, so that helps too.”

“Really?!” Johnny gaped, completely shocked, “Our Yuta hates that stuff! Well, he’s also dead, but whatever.”

Sudden yelling came from outside, followed by the muffled sound of a punch. Everyone drew their attention over, where a fairy and an elf were beating each other up, on the ground.

“What’s a Fairy weakass like you doing here?!” The Elf with long hair growled, throwing another punch.

“Me? What about you?! You’re SUPPOSED to be dead!!!” The Fairy yelled, springing up off the ground and running towards the steps where he saw another of himself and his worst enemy. He screamed, falling back down. “What the fucking Hell is that?!!?!”

Minseok groaned, facepalming.

“This is all too much...”

Yixing sighed, hugging him from behind and putting his chin on Minseok’s shoulder.

“I know, I know... it’s a lot to handle. Hell, a week ago everything was fine, and.. well? What even is normal anymore..” he mumbled.

Chuckling, Minseok tugged Yixing’s arms loosely, and then he let go reluctantly.

“Listen, can you do me a favor..?”

Yixing eyed him suspiciously, knowing the glint in his eyes all too well.

“Maybe... what is it?”

Minseok gave him a big gummy smile, holding his wrists cutely.

“Would you mind going to get Tae-“

“No. No, no, no, no and no. Absolutely not. I refuse to even look at the grumpy old brat. You can’t make me.” He rambled stubbornly, shaking off Minseok’s hands and crossing his arms.

Minseok whined pathetically, and playfully stomped over to the door that led outside, dragging a profusely protesting Yixing with him.

“Look at this!” He grumbled, pointing dramatically to the group of arguing people.

Yixing rolled his eyes at his friend, and in return pulled him over to the bathroom.

“Just draw the asshat a bath for me so that when I get back he isn’t yelling at us the whole time.”

Minseok was about to protest- but when he turned around all that was left behind of Yixing was the fine glitter that slowly floated to the ground before disappearing.

Yixing teleported to Taeyong’s house, and he looked around for him but he was nowhere to be found.

This is the part where you would assume a normal human would be out running errands, right?

Wrong.

Taeyong was a rude, grumpy, antisocial bitch and he refused to go anywhere unless absolutely necessary.

Yixing heard faint splashing coming from Taeyong’s bathroom, and he rolled his eyes.

Just great.

He forcefully opened the door, and Taeyong gasped, inhaling water from where he was fully encased in sudsy water from the mouth down.

“What the... fuck. Yi-Yixing you rude fuck why are you- why are YOU here.” Taeyong rasped out between choked coughs as he stood up and grabbed his towel.

Yixing leaned against the door, glaring at him.

“Minseok made me come. He wants you at Renjun’s.”

The alligator growled at him and clawed at him furiously before Yixing grabbed his wrists, tired of his tantrum.

“Don’t make me do it,” Yixing grunted, trying to restrain the frustrated alligator as he blindly tried to clamp down onto his arm.

Taeyong let out a blood-curdling snarl and came threateningly close to biting Yixing’s shoulder.

“Fine.... you asked for it.” He strained reluctantly as he reached up quickly with one hand and tickled under Taeyong’s chin.

Taeyong yelped, jumping away from Yixing as he slipped and nearly fell- but Yixing pulled him up by a tattooed hand and in an instant, they were at Renjun’s cabin.

Winwin took a quick glance at Taeyong before spotting Peppermint. His eyes widened as he sprinted over to the small deer, hugging him and checking for more injuries.

“Wait a minute...” Mark spoke suddenly, “If I’m not mistaken...Wait...holy fuck...Okay, everyone. No more of your Dalryion people. I think I figured this out. When one of yours comes in contact with us, ours appears. At this point, we may not have enough magic to get us back, so let’s keep this group and this group only.”

Small murmurs spread throughout the room, some in agreement and some in disagreement. Both Yuta’s seemed annoyed with each other, silently arguing about how to treat Winwin/Sicheng. The Jisung’s were giving nasty glares to each other, and the Chenle’s were playing a game of Go while Winwin watched closely. No one seemed focused, which was the biggest problem.

“So, there’s gonna be another Taeyong?” Jaehyun asked, looking at Mark even though Johnny was the one who replied.

“Our Taeyong, for that matter. I just hope he’s okay...”

“How did you guys find your way here so quickly? I mean, Yuta and Win...Win?” Yixing asked quietly, averting his attention from the others.

“A Fairy’s first instinct is to go into a forest. How the elves got here on their own, I have no clue...” Haechan sat on the couch, thinking for a bit.

Without any warning, (Elf, mind you) Yuta charged at Winwin and tackled him. A small yelp left the Fairy, who was startled by the other’s action.

“YutaaAAAaaA!!~~” Winwin kicked and screamed, quickly leaving his grip. He then got up and acted like nothing happened.

Taeyong felt a tap on his shoulder and turned around to see his own self. There were a few differences. This Taeyong had bright red hair, was a bit shorter, and just looked like a whole mess. Out of habit, the redhead clung to his dopplëganger.

“Hullo me...” He whispered, not wanting to look anyone in the face right now.

Alligator Taeyong snarled at his doppelgänger, prying his hands off of him with a look of terror in his eyes.

“G-get off me! Don’t touch me-“ he growled as he shoved him off, making his doppelgänger fall over and land on his bloody hands in his haste.

Yixing gasped and ran over to pick the poor thing up.

“Are you okay?” He mumbled, hugging him tight and caressing his hands, trying to heal them as he glared at alligator Taeyong, his green hair bright and distracting as ever, his heterochromia blue and green eyes staring into Yixing’s soul as he backed away in horror.

Chanyeol stepped closer to Mark, talking to him more about the situation at hand.

Minseok walked over to Taeyong hastily and he reached for his wrist, only to be scratched hard and deep.

He winced, flinching away.

“Look, Taeyong. You’re fine. They won’t hurt you, now look at me.”

Taeyong’s scared eyes flicked between Minseok and his doppelgänger who was trembling in Yixing’s arms.

“That’s it... just breathe for a sec, okay? Now just come to the bathroom, the bath is full of hot water an-“

Minseok wasn’t even able to finish his sentence before Taeyong took off for the bathroom, slamming the door shut.

The remaining Taeyong nervously looked around the room and all the people in it, cowering under it all. He then spotted Johnny near the stairs and bolted over to him, clinging on and not letting go.

“Johnny...too many people...scary...”

“I know, I know. I know it’s scary, Taeyongie. But, think about it. You stood up to me and Yuta. Do you know how strong that makes you? You came across two scary guards who had the power to get you into huge trouble yet you did what you thought was right. I think that’s pretty tough. A few people should be nothing,” Johnny smiled, fixing Taeyong’s hair.

“That was one time, though...I-I don’t know if I can do it again...W-what if they make fun of me...” He replied quietly.

“They won’t make fun of you, I’ll make sure of that.”

“Promise...?”

“I promise.”

Taeyong turned around and looked at the group, mumbling something under his breath before introducing himself.

“I’m Taeyong, please treat me well...p-please don’t bully me...” He spoke sadly, not looking anyone in the eye and then immediately clinging back onto Johnny.

Mouse Jisung waddled up to Taeyong carefully and moved to sit cross legged on the ground about five feet away from them.

“Hi..” he said gently, offering him a warm smile.

“I’m Jisung~! But not your Jisung. I’m a kangaroo mouse hybrid.” He muttered cutely and excitedly, pointing to his ears that he wiggled.

“I’m not going to hurt you, and neither are the rest of us.” He offered a weak smile, looking down at the floor as his eyes glazed over.

Chenle quickly padded over to him, wrapping his tail around his waist and purring loudly as he snuggled into his side.

Jisung sniffled as he smiled, eyes watering.

“I know how you feel. I was scared at first when your Johnny showed up... my Johnny bullied me relentlessly so I understand you.”

He moved to look straight at him now, offering a smile.

Suddenly there was a loud cracking sound, and when Jisung looked up, he instantly froze in fear.

Minseok moved to throw him up against a wall, seething as their Johnny simply smirked down at him, his sleek, ink-black ears laid flat against his head as he growled playfully at him.

“You bastard.. how did you find us?” Minseok snarled.

Johnny simply chuckled, bringing a strong clawed hand up to Minseok’s, prying it off his throat.

“A shame, really... I would’ve thought you guys were smarter than that. I’m a black panther after all!” He announced cockily, striding around the room, his eyes flitting over them all until they finally landed on mouse Jisung.

He chuckled out a snarl before he lunged at him, claws fully extended and ready to strike.

The classic ‘schwing’ sound of a sword being unsheathed rang throughout the room as our very noble Fairy Johnny stood in front of Jisung. The sword he held was pitch black, an aura of magic stagnant around the blade. He didn’t speak a word for a very long moment, only giving his dopplëganger a look of utter disappointment.

“What did he ever do to you?”

TO BE CONTINUED. . .

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

3 notes · View notes

kotlc-oneshots · 5 years

Text

Blind!keefe au

Hey all!!! Sorry I’ve been dead, but writings block kills lol. Anyways I got this idea off of some lame discord convos and uhhh I hope it’s good. Also it’s late and lmao I have no motivation to edit my own writing uhhh here u go. Some mild swearing. Will be Kam if I keep going w it. Lov yall.

*~*~*

Pt.

one

Keefe

I’m lying in bed, of course, when the shrieking of my alarm goes off about four feet away from me. I blink my eyes open until they don’t feel sticky and gross, then grab my alarm clock. It’s a simple thing, a brick with about 5 buttons total on it, probably.

I pushed the button on the bottom left corner, and the loud wail finally ends. I groan and rub my head, wishing the colors and blobs that cloud the center of my milky vision would just come into focus.

However after years of hoping for that, every morning, I know nothing is going to happen. With a small sigh, I go into my ultra-specifically organized dresser.

Today is the first day of my senior year. Even if I wont be able to see myself, I want to know that others will appreciate the way that I look- or, at least, am dressed. There’s not a lot I can do if there’s anything wrong with my face or hair. I wish I could, though- even though I’ve been blind since birth, I still always want to look presentable. In order to do that, my friends help me once every other week to organize my outfits for the upcoming 14 days. It started in sophmore year, when Sophie got the wonderful idea, and it's been a tradition since. And thanks to my ‘photographic (ha) memory’, I always know what clothes I’m wearing. Always.

I’m about halfway dressed when hear a beep from the direction of my bed.

“New message from Fitz.” The automated, robotic voice of Siri tells me.

“Hey siri- read message from Fitz.” I respond, then finish putting on the rest of my clothes.

“Ready for your first day as a senior?” she reads back to me. I automatically change the sound to Fitz’s deeper, more human voice in my head. It’s pointless, but necessary.

“Hey siri- text Fitz ‘hell yeah brother.’” After a quick confirmation of what I’m sending, I go into the bathroom next to my bedroom. I carefully feel my way around for my toothbrush and brush my teeth, then proceed to run my hand through my hair. For a short moment, I wish I could see myself as more than a blob of milky, too bright color, but it fades quickly. I’d rather not think about it. So I finish up in the bathroom, then return to my room for my bag. With a quick ‘hey siri’, I manage to find my phone as well.

After a few more voice commands, I receive the news that Fitz will be here to pick me up at 7:30, which gives me about 20 minutes. I hop over to the kitchen and make myself a quick, hearty bowl of cereal. Being me, I choose the healthiest kind- Lucky Charms. When finished, I smile to myself and set the bowl near the sink- I know my dads at work by now, so I don’t have to worry about him. Sometimes there’s good things about waking up early. As I slip my bag on and go to the door to wait, I remember how lucky I am to have such a good memory, and such a constantly cleanly household. Otherwise, I’d be as clumsy in my house as Sophie is. I grab my cane and walk outside, chiding myself for thinking so much about the little things.

Fitz is there, honking his horn, about 5 ish minutes after I get outside. Sophie yells at him for being annoying, and I chuckle a bit. A window rolls down, and Biana’s voice comes through hollering to go to the back passengers side. I use my cane to help me a little bit, then grab onto the ledge made by the open window. I proceed to find the door handle, then carefully step into the car.

“If any freshman gives you crap today, you have full right to hit them with your cane.” Dex, who must be on on the other side of Biana, says.

“Thank you. I’ll definitely do that,” I respond with a laugh, and I can practically feel the worry in the air as Sophie warns me not to.

“We really don’t want you to get suspended on the first day. So just wait until tomorrow, and give them an extra hard whap on kneecap.” Biana adds cheerily.

“This is why you’re my favorite.” I awkwardly try to wrap my arm

around her head, but fail miserably. My peripherals are even worse than the center of my vision- there’s almost no light visible towards the edges. So I end up hitting her on the head, and play it off by messing her hair up. This, of course, causes her to whack my arm and call me a jerk.

“Alright, dumbasses, knock it off,” Fitz, my best friend of the

past 6 years, yells. “By the way, Keefe, we’re pulling in now.” A knot forms in my stomach. Man. First day of senior year at Foxfire. I can’t believe its so close to being over. The beginning of the end.

We pull into the parking lot and step out of Fitz’s Volvo. I turn towards the building, and take a deep inhale of the crisp morning air. My friends and family always like to comment on how pretty the building looks. Foxfire is a really prestigious private high school, and I know that they put a lot of money into the architecture

and the grounds. It's a pity that all I see is a building shaped blob of its beige color, and the faint blobs of green and other colors that I know are trees.

I try not to let myself think about it.

We walk into the building, and Fitz automatically splits off. He's supposed to help some teacher set up the presentation that the Freshman go to. I love him, but it's the first day of school and that man is already busy. This year is gonna be rough if we wanna keep up our hangout sessions- although, we both did take the same 6 AP classes. We’ll probably study together, when he’s not with his million other commitments.

After a few hugs and highfives, and a few debate friends greeting me, I go to my first class. I’m /not/ getting caught in that crowd, especially with the idiotic freshman pretending that they own the place. Off to AP music theory it is. C118 is easy enough- no stairs, and it's a pretty straight shot to the classroom. Again,

I thank my perfect memory to get me around. I may not know what the building looks like, but I basically have the blueprint downloaded in my head. Good times, man.

First period doesn’t result in much. We all get a copy of the syllabus, and a short introductory reading. I can feel a tinge of annoyance when the teacher acknowledges my inability to.. Uh, read it, but a girl named Linh volunteers to help me out with it. She seemed nice enough. She had a bit of a Canadian accent, and when I asked about it she confirmed that she was from… Minnesota. She was really sweet, and I’m genuinely hoping that’ll become a friendship.

The next couple periods go uneventfully. Fitz is in one of them, and Dex the other so I don’t have to worry about another situation like in first period. And the teachers always let me go about 2-3 minutes early, so I can avoid the crowds- that is, until lunch. I’m on my way down to the cafeteria when I run into… someone. They must have been very quiet- I didn’t realize they were that close to me and coming around the bend. So when they did, we kinda collided. I hear a soft curse when they thud to the ground, and from the shape and sound I know its a guy. I put the cane in my left hand and offer to help him up. I’m not sure what it is, but he doesn’t accept it.

“You good man? I didn’t see ya there.” I laugh a little, because

duh. He doesn’t. I can’t really make out any of him- his hair is /probably/ black- and this agitates me, because he doesn’t respond. And then he practically runs away.

I have no way to identify him- probably a dumb freshman that didn’t want his ass kicked by the blind senior. Trying to shake off the interaction, I roll my eyes and start on my way to lunch again.

“Honestly, today was AWFUL. The second half, at least.” I’m now at Fitz’s house, along with Dex. “I already told Dex about that one guy that ran into me, but Stats teacher was awful. She probably heard something from Michaels about last year- just because I rarely showed up doesn’t mean I don’t know what I’m doing! I got along in that class fine.”

“Keefe, I taught you like half of that course.” Fitz replies, laughing.

“Because you actually know how to do math! Michaels is an awful excuse for a pre calc teacher. Dex, be glad that you got Hex.” I retort. It’s not wrong- Mr. Michaels had been very incompetent. If not for Fitz, I would have gotten the worst grade I ever had in my high school career.

“You know I am.” Dex agrees. “Even Hex hates Michaels, but she won’t admit it. Outright, at least.”

“Ok, enough about horrible teachers. Tell me about the guy who ran into you.” Fitz pipes up, not wanting to be apart of a conversation dissing his soccer coach. I let him divert the conversation, even though I really wanna rag Michaels to the ground most of the time.

“Well, that's the thing. There’s nothing to tell- I ran into him and he fell. Then he ran away, without saying a word,” I say. “I wanna know just as much as you do.”

“That’s cute.” Dex comments, and I shake my head.

“You know what I mean.”

“Suuuuureee.” The tone of his voice makes me hit him, which starts a wrestle between the three of us that lasts for about half an hour. By the end of it, I’m sure I have multiple bruises from falling, kicking something wrong, and getting hit, but I don’t care much. We fall into a panting heap on Fitz bed, and we through half hearted punches at each other that hold no intention. Needless to say, I’m sweaty and gross, and when Fitz informs me that it's almost 8, I ask to go home. A man's gotta shower- and get his beauty sleep.

So Fitz drives me and Dex home, the three of us having pointless conversation about classes and plans we should make. I get dropped off first, and they wait as I carefully make my way to door of my house, not leaving until I get inside. I hear the thrum of his engine as Fitz drives off, then make my way to the bathroom.

After a quick shower, I brush my teeth and head off to bed.

I drift off, and my thoughts are filled with a mysterious blob with probably black hair and evil math equations.

#keeper of the lost cities #dex dizznee #kotlc #keefe sencen #sophie foster #tam song #blind!au #fitzvacker #writersblock #highschool!au

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stillsyns · 4 years

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December Prompt List!

General

And I know I don't want this, oh, I swear I don't want this / There's a reason not to want this but I forgot

And it's been a while since I said I'm sorry

And my hands are cold tonight / I'm sleepless in this dark

"And this is my city under ashes."

"And when he is silent your heart ceases not to listen to his heart"

"Behind every beautiful thing, there's some kind of pain."

But here's the thing: To know how it ends / And still begin to sing it again

Call me friend but keep me closer

For you are made of nebulas and novas and night sky / You’re made of memories you bury or live by

Honey, you're familiar, like my mirror years ago

"I have loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night."

"I stopped fighting my demons. We're on the same side now."

It feels like yesterday was a year ago

I wish somebody would've told me [...] That I'd be lost without you leading me astray

"In the beginning, there was love, and love, and love, and—"

"My faith is shaken, but I still believe”

"My soul has been so fearful, so violent: forgive its brutality."

People turn on you just like the wind / Everybody is a fair-weather friend

Remember, everything will be all right / We can meet again somewhere / Somewhere far away from here

When you gonna make up your mind / When you gonna love you as much as I do

Where do I go when every 'no' turns into 'maybe'?

You pick up the pieces / And the ghosts in the attic / They never quite leave

Your stitches are all out / But your scars are healing wrong

Stand Still Stay Silent

Any - From here on out you're patient zero

Any - "And all that I was before / is out there in the darkness looking for / me"

Any Finnish Mage - "Each one of us gets lost in the forest, every night, alone."

Any/Any - If I were that kind of grateful / What would I try to say?

Any/Any - "If there is anything left to say, it is this: I would have found you anywhere. I will find you anywhere."

Any/Any - No it's not regret / Just remembrance is all

Any/Any - Summer move forward and stitch me the fabric of fall

Any/Any - The sky's falling / And it's beautiful [...] The streets are silent / And it's beautiful

Aksel/Sigrun - I wish you were here / Don't you know the snow is getting colder

Emil - I got soul but I'm not a soldier

Emil/Lalli - "Love is friendship that has caught fire."

Emil/Lalli - Now my heart feels like an ember and it's lighting up the dark

Emil/Lalli or Onni/Reynir - I want the storm inside you awoken now

Emil/Sigrun - I need direction to perfection / Oh no no no no / Help me out

Ensi - When I was a child, I heard voices / Some would sing and some would scream

Ensi/Ukko-Pekka - We got some gods in the house tonight, ay!

Onni - And how I am sure / Like never before / Of my reasons for defying reason

Onni - For a while now day's been breaking colder / There's a wild wind driving me on

Onni & Tuuri - "My brother used to ask the birds to forgive him; that sounds senseless but it is right."

Onni/Reynir - And as we burned our tiny worlds / We found the ocean just beyond those paper walls

Onni/Reynir - I called your name 'til the fever broke

Onni/Reynir - "If a little dreaming is dangerous, the cure for it is not to dream less but to dream more, to dream all the time."

Onni/Reynir - "I really don't know what 'I love you' means. I think it means 'Don't leave me here alone.'"

Sigrun - Figures that my courage would choose to sell out now

Sigrun - "Let us know that we do not live in vain.”

Sigrun/Tuuri - And even though our story's at the end / I will still think of you now and then

Sigrun/Tuuri - And the memories bring back memories / bring back you

Sigrun/Tuuri - Calling your name in the midnight hour / Reaching for you from the endless dream

Sigrun/Tuuri - Flowers, flowers grow where I'm laid to rest / Honey, pick a blossom and hold it, hold it to your breast

Sigrun/Tuuri - I've been told, I've been told to get you off my mind / But I hope I never lose the bruises that you left behind

Sigrun/Tuuri - I am a constant satellite / of your blazing sun [...] I obey your law of gravity

Sigrun/Tuuri - This is not the last snowfall / Nor our last embrace

Sigrun/Tuuri - "You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams."

Sigrun/Tuuri - "You’ve been here before, lived this day before"

The Crew - So many stories, so many treasures / So much our lives have shared / We've done it all and we've done it together

Tuuri - A suitcase full of summertime

Tuuri - We thought we lost you / We thought we lost you / We thought we lost you / Welcome back

City of Hunger

Any/Any - "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."

Any/Any - Call it any name you need / Call it your rebirth, whatever / Call it your 2.0. / Call it your day number one in the rest of forever

A Redtail’s Dream

Hannu/Joona - All the feelings that I get / But I still don't miss you yet

Hannu/Joona - "I don't wanna keep secrets just to keep you"

Hannu/Joona - I'm just walking by to let you know / I can never say it on the phone

Jonna - When I was a small girl, I walked through the market / Holding my dad's hand, mitten in gloved hand

Jonna/Riikka - I'm running out of time / 'Cause I can see the sun light up the sky

Jonna/Riikka - Light dies quicker in the wintertime / wolves line the city streets / I sleep away the cold

Puppy-Fox - "And dance on foxfires through the skies"

* New prompts added after the list goes up will be bolded to make them easier to find.

#monthly themes 2019 #prompt lists #mod post

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neverwatchedonepiece · 5 years

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617: "Caesar's Defeat! The Powerful Grizzly Magnum!"

Basically Caesar: “REEEEEEEEEEEEE, SCIENCE!!!”

Only had time for one episode today but caught a snippet of the preview and it seems like posting for one episode here will fit in terms of the story arc.

Caesar is down and out, Law has done what he came to do, and Luffy has executed step one of his plan to kick ass and kidnap! Now all he needs is the fantastically badass Usopp to come through with the cuffs and step two will be on the cards!

It’s all a matter of escaping Punk Hazard with Caesar in tow, plus Law, the Strawhats, a bunch of kids and maybe some surviving Minions and the G5 and Smoker and Tashigi and Foxfire and Momonosuke and Brownbeard.

Yeah, I hope Franky has some extra bed rolls hidden away in storage because that is a lot of extra bodies on Sunny.

Sanji will be fine. He worked at Baratie. He’s used to mass catering.

Law Tries Out His Stand Up Material On Vergo

In other news, Vergo is still alive. I kind of hoped Law might have taken him out but this is One Piece and you guys have always said that Oda sees a future for most of his characters. (Even Wapol. Yes, I am still salty about Wapol.) Smoker was on the ground, breathing hard. Getting fresh air for once, instead of dat tasty tobacco.

Vergo is also still shit-talking. “You broke the gear? There’s no turning back? That’s hysterical.”

Brave for a guy who was (at that point) in two pieces with a building crumbling rapidly around him. Not to mention the noxious clouds of gas.

Then he used his hands to spring from the ground and attack Law. He was Roomed and doomed in two seconds, chopped into fractions and hung on the railings. (Approaching Nightmare Fuel territory if you think too much about it.)

Vergo totally reminds me of the Black Knight from Monty Python’s Life of Brian. If you’ve never heard of it, he’s basically this dude who keeps getting up and shit-talking his opponents even after the removal of all his limbs. It’s funny. Vergo even made a joke about it. “How will I eat breakfast tomorrow?” Yeah, he almost went full Black Knight there.

Except for the little serious turn when he threatened Law with Doflamingo’s past.

“How dare you, Law? This is an upset. But I know you’re going to regret it. Keep that in mind. You don’t know Joker’s past and that will cost you your life. Upstarts like you can’t hope to take over the world. It’s filled with those who are much stronger. Tell him, Smoker!”

First of all, why was he appealing to Smoker to back him up like a kid in a playground? The brazen cheek of it. As if. I’m glad Smoker blanked him and sparked up a fat Cuban cigar.

Secondly, what is all this about Doflamingo’s past? Why would that matter to Law? I’m trying to think what could possibly affect Law as much as Vergo says and I’m drawing a blank.The only thing that might be a bit meh is if Doflamingo was once a Marine. We already had that twist with Vergo.

At any rate, Law had had enough with Vergo running his mouth, and chopped his head into two pieces.

“Don’t worry about me. Just worry about yourself. This room will explode soon. Goodbye, Vergo the pirate.”

I ain’t bothered about Vergo. That guy is too arrogant for his own good and Law gave him a well-deserved taste of defeat. I just hope Law took Smoker with him.(It’d be hilarious if Law carried Smoker over his shoulder and they ran into Zoro carrying Tashigi over his shoulder. xD)

Speaking of Well-Deserved Tastes of Defeat...

This guy...

I love a charismatic, melodramatic, total piece of crap villain, but Oda did a great job of making me loathe Caesar here. I think Luffy lamping him square on the chops unhinged him a little. Law destroying the SAD factory and the labs as a result probably finished Caesar off. His arrogance and cruelty was off the charts! I thought Spandam was bad. Caesar makes Spanda look like a playground bully.

I loved how when he realised Law had unleashed merry hell, Caesar’s reaction was, “Damn! Who caused that? I bet it was Law. What is Vergo doing? You Strawhats RUINED MY PARADISE!”

His paradise. Wow, that sure does give you a little peek into this dude’s mind.

And it gets better.

Caesar had a last-ditch plan to defeat Luffy. He called his Minions in the Secret Room. “R-Building, can you hear me? Secret Room, come in! Open the air vents now! Let Shinokuni flow into this room.”

The Minions, understandably, were reticent to do this because they are the kind of people who, like the Strawhats, look after their own. They asked, “but wouldn’t it kill our guys?”

Caesar was like, “Well, I’m a gas man. I’m not gonna die. You’re just guinea pigs. No one would care if hundreds of you died. You are just the dregs of society! What are you doing? Hurry up. I can find replacements for you fools so easily.”

Uh oh.

The mask came off. Caesar must have been so riled that he didn’t care if everyone saw his true nature. The poor, deluded Minions still clung to their vision of Caesar as their benevolent Master, their saviour.

“Oh, the Master is trying to fool the enemies. He must have a plan to do with the gas. It would hurt him to know we suspected him.”

Hurt him? Mate, Caesar has no feelings to be hurt. He has an ego the size of Laboon. That’s not the same thing.

So, of course the Minions pulled the lever. Shinokuni flowed into the room. And I had a facepalm moment at those poor, brainwashed Minions.

Caesar Does A Moria

“Yes! About time,” Caesar shouted. “Dregs shouldn’t think. Now, become my power, Shinokuni. Look, Strawhat! Look at his amazing appearance. This is my scientific power. Through this experiment, two countries have already expressed interest in the weapon. They are both quite peaceful but when humans get serious about defending themselves, they’ll look for any way possible to kill their enemies. Everybody needs me! I’ll spread weapons all over the world and become King of the Land of Death.”

There are a couple of things to unpack here.

First of all, Caesar is completely demented. I mean, that was always obvious. But that ambition of his is twisted and terrifying. Worse, that Doflamingo gave him the traction to actually make it happen.

Secondly, he’s insane but he’s not stupid. Caesar has an eye for business and is, weirdly, able to charm people into believing his bullshit. He also knows the darker side of human nature and how to exploit it, like he has done with those peaceful islands. He is also smug in the knowledge that big shots in governments everywhere will always want him in their corner, so there will always be a place for someone like him. That was a definite Art Mirroring Life moment right there. Harsh but true, I guess. The guy who first split the atom and invented the atomic bomb was a hot commodity, right?

Third, Caesar basically did a Gekko Moria. Caesar took it a step further because he actually gleefully killed all his Minions. Moria just took the shadows back from already dead bodies. This was the logical conclusion of Caesar seeing other people as objects or commodities to be manipulated, used or destroyed as he sees fit. The way he happily killed them all was just nasty. “It’s amazing, if I do say so myself. Look at how fast it acts on their nerves. It’s almost an art!” And when they begged him to stop, “I am your saviour and I can make efficient use of you good-for-nothings. You are just crumbs. You should not stand against your Master. Die like dogs!”

Crumbs. Dogs. Guinea pigs. Caesar always uses dehumanising language on his poor Minions. And everyone else for that matter. He really is a psychotic, nasty piece of work. If this guy is working for Doflamingo, I cannot wait to see what a horrible bastard Doflamingo turns out to be. xD

Caesar’s Off The Deep End Behaviour and his treatment of his own people caused Luffy to have the veiniest, super frown I have seen on his face so far. Luffy does not like people who betray and used their own crew/soldiers/comrades.

Luffy said to Momo, “Look after Brownbeard.” Then ran in the opposite direction. Of course, I knew Luffy was just looking to gain some distance. Caesar, of course, mistook it for Luffy chickening out all of a sudden.

There was one person who knew with absolute certainty that this was not the case.

Usopp Was Awesome Here

Can I just talk for a moment about how awesome Usopp was here?

All through this arc, he’s been ridiculously brave. He volunteered to split up with Brook and Foxfire so he could work on his own to find the Sea Prism Stone cuffs for Luffy. He was creeping round the labs on his own and when he found the Secret Room, he did not run upon being confronted with a full squad of Minions. He simply used his smarts to evade capture. Because he knew there was something in there of value and Luffy needed his help.

When the Minions saw Caesar’s true nature over the DDM feed and were finally like, “OMG this guy is awful.” Usopp just walked up to them and said, “I know you’re all broken hearted here but could I sit in that control seat for a second? I wanna save my friends from the gas.”

See that? Usopp’s loyalty to his friends trumps all sense of fear.

When the Minions tried to shake Usopp by saying, “Yeah, you’ll never escape because your Captain just cut and run. He left you guys behind.“ Usopp was Not Having One Bit Of It.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa... Are you dissing our captain right in front of me? If he were the kind of person who’d betray us, this whole thing would’ve been much easier for me. I would’ve just run away with my tail between my legs. But he never, ever stops believing in us. So we have no choice but to support him. We pledged to live up to his expectations as long as we can breathe!”

There you have it. Right from the horse’s mouth. Luffy’s faith in his crew inspires them to greater heights. And in Usopp, this is bravery. Absolutely beautiful.

And when the Minions said, “But what can we do? We can’t beat such a powerful man?” (Referring to Caesar) Usopp replied, “Yes, you can. You guys should just believe in our Captain. Caesar is the type of person that Luffy hates the most. Luffy won’t forgive Caesar.”

Usopp knows Luffy pretty well.

That Grizzly Magnum was really something else. I was expecting it to take out Caesar straight awayt but I liked that it didn’t. Caesar is the kind of villain who needs to have his pride thoroughly broken and to taste bitter, bitter defeat. If not, he’ll just tank the hit, pick himself up again and it’s back to his same old tricks.

The best portrayal of that was when Caesar was wrestling with Luffy, the Shinokuni slowly turning his hands to white powder, and he screamed, “Kneel before my power!”

Luffy will never kneel to anyone. Now, I’m not sure what those pulses of power were that drove Caesar back (Conqueror’s Haki?) but Luffy’s hit finally landed and, in a perfect moment of symbolism, Caesar’s self-made crown shattered.

He is no longer the tyrannical ruler of Punk Hazard. Caesar’s reign has come to an end.

And I can’t wait to see what happens next, because Doflamingo sent one of his lackeys to help him out.

The plot chickens.

Well, you’re gonna kidnap him, so that might be a tough one to get round.

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