#also YES i am SO ready to learn more about the prince let's GO

[schleierkauz]

Cornelia Funke Q&A - 05.09.22

First of all, the audio quality was horrible this time. I tried my best to make out what Cornelia said but it was a struggle.

The Elephant in the Room/Those new Inkworld Covers

- See this post

- No, really, Cornelia hates them a lot and encourages us to complain to the publisher

The Color of Revenge

- The book is finished

- Direct quote from Cornelia:

"I admit, I'm very in love with this book. It will, in many ways, be different from the other Inkworld books since it takes places five years later and the two main characters are definitely Dustfinger and the Black Prince. 

That means there will be two story lines, two separate efforts to stop Orpheus' revenge. Dustfinger, Farid and Jehan (Dustfinger's stepson) will travel with the Strong Man. 

Meanwhile the Black Prince, along with Battista, will be with a young witch named Driope... who will... hm... probably explain why Fox has a fox pelt. So the fox will be mentioned but not- not in the way the cover seems to imply. The story will be about witches, good ones and evil ones, it will... I had so much fun finally getting more into the Prince's story, I wanted to do that since I wrote Inkspell. And now Nyame, which is his first name I hadn't revealed so far, will really be in the spotlight this time. Colors, too- are pictures more powerful than words? We will see... and I think the answer will surprise us all.

Part of the story will take place around Ombra, which looks a lot like Tuskany, where I live right now. Other parts will take place in South Tyrol, which we already know from Reckless.

I let the story surprise me. It went completely differently than how I initially imagined, that's always a good sign. There were plottwist I couldn't have predicted, I learned a lot, met characters I didn't know very well before... And I hope that I have another book in me because after this, there are still a thousand stories to tell. But that's how all my stories end, so... We'll see. I definitely wrote it with so so so much joy and I hope some of that joy will infect the readers once they have the book in their hands.

Of course (unintelligible) but there's also a lot of beauty and light... and many characters that we love."

(Translator’s note: I’m guessing she said something like “Of course the story will have dark moments”- but everyone talked over each other so I can’t hear her exact wording)

Reckless

- She is preparing Reckless 5, which she calls a huge challenge

- It will involve African fairy tales and Cornelia is realising how little she knows about African history so she's been doing a lot of research. Since she explored the Black Prince's roots in TCoR, she is looking forward to see possible parallels between the Inkworld and the Mirrorworld again

The Wild Chicks

- Cornelia has recently been made aware that The Wild Chicks are trending on Tiktok. She obviously had no idea. She heard that they are seen as idols because even 30 years ago they were growing their own food, saving chickens and featured lesbians

- The idea is to do something with those characters and environmentalism because it would fit very well but there are no concrete plans yet

- Of course there are also those scripts about the characters at 30. Plans have been changed - instead of a movie, Cornelia wants to turn it into a six part TV show. This would give every character room to breathe. Of course, there would be a book to go along with this

Misc.

- Cornelia wishes she was ginger. She doesn't want to dye her hair, she just wants to naturally be ginger. Maybe in the next life

- Cornelia talks about her Christmas project again. She wants all her artists to draw christmas trees which the writer's will then tell little stories about

- One of Cornelia’s next plans is to get environmentalists and artists together and come up with more hopeful narratives about the future of the planet. She is tired of apocalypse stories

- "The Green Kingdom" is finished and will be released next spring

- Cornelia's Italian is getting better and she hopes she will be able to do a few readings in Italian next year. She will be on stage in Germany next month for the first time since covid hit and is very excited about it

- If Cornelia had the chance to sit down and talk to any fictional character, she would like to choose the three musketeers or Inigo Montoya from The Princess Bride

- Despite all the wonderful Italian food she's been eating, Cornelia remains loyal to the potato

- In Cornelia's experience, publishers often try to stop authors and illustrators from communicating directly because they don't want them to unionize. She encourages everyone to ignore this and talk to each other

#info #cornelia funke #reckless #inkworld #the color of revenge #tcor #i never remember which tags i use lmao #the wild chicks #die wilden hühner #inkheart #VERY interesting news this time #i was so excited to hear her mention battista.... my beloved.... #also YES i am SO ready to learn more about the prince let's GO #i realise that this is kinda short but they spent most of their time complaining about the cover designs hfdjkghfggf #it's so nice to hear cornelia speak #like about anything #u can tell that she really believes in everything she does and is so excited about it all i love her #and her little 'nech' every other sentence. we get it you're from hamburg #ok im gonna go outside now have a good day everyone

[angels17324]

Chance - Chapter 8

Word count 2.0k

A/n: I am fairly certain I can wrap this up in another chapter or two plus an epilogue, so I hope you all enjoy 😇

Genre: Mostly fluff, like an overload of fluff. Angst

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She had never seen Friedrich as angry as he had been after her confession, but it had all been for her protection. He decided they would talk to his aunt after the event was over and make sure Lord Jameson would be arrested. 

Friedrich had also managed to convince his aunt that (Y/n) and her family should stay at the castle until the wedding to make sure they were safe. (Y/n) couldn’t be more thankful about it. All the preparation for their wedding had finished so it gave (Y/n) some time to relax before the wedding. She also wouldn’t argue with seeing Friedrich more often. 

(Y/n) had been sitting in her widow with it propped open to let some fresh air in, her and Friedrich’s rooms had been placed practically on opposite sides of the castle ‘to keep their reputations intact’ as Queen Charlotte put it. However, it seemed like Friedrich’s fencing practice moved closer to her room so she could watch him. Anytime Friedrich looked up to her window she’d quickly look at the book in her lap and pretend she wasn’t just staring at him. 

Friedrich chuckled when he noticed she tried to pretend like she wasn’t staring again. He didn’t mind, as of tomrrow she’d be his wife. He couldn’t wait for their wedding. He almost wished it could be the day of their wedding already. He noticed she was talking with her ladies maid he learned her name to be Marie. As she had been helping the two talk when no one else knew. He’d actually asked her to help him with a surprise for the next day as well. 

They both caught each others eyes and waved. In embarrassment he saw her turn back to Marie, while he felt a weight on his shoulder. His fencing partner. “Ah, so now I finally see why you asked us to move all the way over here,” He chuckled. He was one of the few that wouldn’t just let Friedrich win because he was a prince. “It has nothing to do with her room being there,” “I said nothing about her room, I just happened to notice her in the window,” He grinned. “Now are we going to fence?” 

“Yes we are,” Friedrich turned back to him. 

“Great, because you have a little something,” He pretended to wipe his own chin with a chuckle, “Wouldn’t want you to embarrass yourself more in front of your future wife when I beat you.” 

Friedrich took a quick swipe of his chin finding nothing causing his friend to laugh. “Maybe rely more you your skill than jokes,” Friedrich said as they began to spar again. 

Their wedding was slated to take place in the morning so they could begin their long journey before it got late. She had already been up for hours when Marie came to wake her up to get her ready for the day. “Are you excited,” Marie said with a smile as she sat on her bed. “So excited I can barely think,” (Y/n) grabbed one of the pillows behind her and squeezed it to her chest. “Well, good news, you only have to remember to walk down the aisle, say your vows and finally kiss your prince. With maybe a few other surprises along the way.” She winked. “Surprises? What surprises Marie?” She questioned.

“Nothing, nothing!” She giggled and pulled the girl from her bed, “Now lets get our bride ready!” 

It felt like days while they got her ready in truth it was just a few hours, and she couldn’t help but notice Marie disappeared a few times while others did her hair, and helped her into her gown. 

She was sitting on one of the chairs while she waited. When she heard a knock on her door and Marie popped her head in. “Good you’re alone now,” She smiled and (Y/n) walked over. 

“I am, why?” She raised her brow. Marie came in but left the door slightly open. 

“For a surprise,” She smiled. “What surprised?” She tried asking again. “Me, Schatz,” She heard a familiar voice on the other side of the door. She could help the grin that formed on her face. “I asked her to help me so we could have a moment alone before everything today,” He explained and reached his hand through the opening in the door. She took his hand and they both leaned against the door and she took his hand.

They stayed in silence for a bit just enjoying being close. “You still haven’t told me what Schatz means,” she smiled. “Treasure,” He said, and played with her hand a bit. “Because you are my treasure. And I’m glad I found you.” 

They spent a few more minutes standing together until Marie let them know someone was coming. Then they reluctantly let go. The ceremony itself passed in a blur and they were finally married. 

Everyone was ushered out into a large hall except for the young couple. (Y/n) had planned to follow them but her husband had a slight change of plans for them. Before they entered he gently took her hand and pulled her into a different room. 

“Friedrich?” She questioned and looked at him with a smile. 

“No one is going to miss us yet,” He explained with a smile and they sat down happy to be alone together for a few minutes which they probably wouldn’t get again until they were ready to leave for their honeymoon. 

“How long are we planning to stay here?” “Just a few minutes,” he chuckled. “Tonight, we will stay in our home here in London,” he smiled. “Then tomorrow we can start the real journey,” He kissed her gently.

“I can’t wait,” She smiled and pulled away slowly. 

There were so many people at their reception that it was almost impossible to move around once the couple joined the reception. They could forget about walking around much though as everyone was coming up to the couple to congratulate them or to enjoy their wedding night. Most of the latter comments embarrassed (Y/n) a bit.

She smiled and held his hand as Lady Danbury approached them.

“Lady Danbury,” They both greeted her with a nod.

“Congratulations your highnesses,” she bowed to the two. 

“Thank you Lady Danbury,” (Y/n) smiled. 

“And don’t let me forget to invite you to one of my ladies only parties your highness,” Lady Danbury winked to her before walking off. 

After hours of exchanging plessentries with most of the Ton both (Y/n) and Friedrich were ready to go, Friedrich excused himself from his wife to go get their carriage ready to go. They didn’t need to worry about any of her things as they were already sent to their new home. So all they needed to worry about was getting themselves home. 

As soon as Friedrich walked away that’s when her stepmother walked over. 

“(Y/n), dear I’m glad I found you again before you leave.” She said. “What is it mom,” She looked to the older woman who looped her arm under hers. 

“It’s time to have the talk about what happens on your wedding night,” She stated, and lead her past a few guards to a private room for their chat.

When Friedrich reentered the hall, he didn’t immediately see his wife where he had just left her only a few moments before. Some people had already left so it was a bit easier to walk around. He started to make his way around the hall. The first people he noticed were his family, then hers. 

“Friedrich,” His aunt called him over to her. He walked over slowly still scanning the hall for her, “Yes Tante?” he asked and looked at her. “Getting ready to leave so soon?” she asked. 

“As soon as I find my bride again,” He nodded. “Our mother took her aside to speak with her,” One of her brothers piped up. “Probably of what to expect tonight,” Another chuckled causing Friedrich to blush a bit. “Yes, I hope to soon hear my favorite nephew and his wife are with child,” Charlotte chuckled and caused his blush to deepen. Her mother soon joined the group but without (Y/n). 

“Where’s (Y/n),” He father asked. “I think our little chat embarrassed her a bit, I believe she’s still attempting to calm down,” Her mother chuckled a bit and waved their worries away. “She should be coming back soon.” 

Friedrich nodded calmly and decided he’d wait not to cause her to be more nervous. But he’d be lying if he hadn’t thought about what tonight would be for them. It had been one of the only things he could think of besides how happy he was to spend the rest of their lives together. He thought back to that day a little more than a week ago in the library. 

“She sure is taking a while,” Her oldest brother stated, which snapped Friedrich out of his little day dream. 

“What,” He said, he hadn’t really noticed he’d spaced out a bit. 

“What did you tell her,” Her youngest of her older brothers asked their mom nudging her. “Nothing that bad, we should check on her,” 

“I’ll go,” Friedrich said and went off to the room her mother said she left (Y/n) in.

After her stepmother had left with the information she’d told (Y/n) she was fanning herself and opened the window to let in some cooler air to calm herself down. She hadn’t know anything of what was going to happen and now she couldn’t be more nervous about it. 

She paced around the room and took deep breaths in attempt to calm her nerves. After a few minutes she’d finally calmed herself enough to try to rejoin the others. There was a knock at the door where she was at. “Come in,” She said. 

“Your highness,” A young guard she didn’t recognize popped his head in.

“Yes…?” she said slowly still not used to being called that. 

“Prince Friedrich asked me to give this to you,” The guard handed her a note. “Oh, thank you,” She said and opened it. The young guard quickly left. 

‘I have the carriages pulled around if you’re ready.’ was all it said. She looked at it and took a few more deep breaths before leaving the room to go out to meet him.

Friedrich reached the room and knocked. He didn’t hear anything at first and knocked a bit louder before opening the door to see the room was empty. He was confused and walked in. Nothing seemed out of place but the doors to the balcony were open, maybe she was sitting outside? He walked slowly over and looked out and still didn’t see her. Where else could she be, he surely would have seen her if she’d entered the hall again. Maybe she went to the library? He thought, it was their secret meeting place. He exited the room and began to think of any other places she might have gone.

He walked over to a few guards to see if they’d seen her. “Sorry your highness we haven’t since her mother brought her here,” He had asked them to help him look. He didn’t want to cause a panic if it was nothing. But now he couldn’t help but remember that no one had informed them of Lord Jameson’s status and if he’d been found or not. 

He shouldn’t think about that now, it’s their wedding day nothing bad could happen today. And there were guards everywhere if he’d tried anything he would have been stopped. His pace to the library quickened as he hoped to find her in the back reading her romance novel they’d picked out a few days ago.  He made it to the back of the library where he’d hoped she’d be saying something about wanting to take the book on their honeymoon. But she wasn’t. A few guards ran up to him out of breathe.

“She isn’t in her room, or in the hall either,” One told him.

“My wife is missing,”

Taglist- @faye-tale @eleanor-bradstreet @colettebronte @broooookiecrisp @emmamandms

Next

#prince friedrich x fem reader #prince friedrich x reader #prince friedrich x you #prince friedrich #reader insert #bridgerton

[thesheelfsworld]

Trust me or f*ck off

Warning: mild swearing

Pairing: Thorin Oakenshield x reader; Thorin's Company x reader

Summary: Being an outsider, it was expected that the dwarves were doubtful of you, but they should at least let you do your job!

Author's Note: As always, English is not my first language, so please be nice and enjoy!✨

If you are interested, here are part 1, part 3.

PART 2

Walking away was the right decision because as soon as I stepped away, tears started rushing down my face. I hated crying, and I hated the reason I was crying. 

I wandered deeper into the forest, and soon enough, anger became exhaustion. I was tired from all the traveling, and being on guard all the time. Tired of being looked at with doubt, and having my skills questioned. 

It was a shame because I really did like the dwarves -those few sweet moments where they opened up. In all my years of traveling, I have learned some bits and pieces about dwarven culture and found it fascinating. I had hoped to learn more on this quest, but oh well. 

I had also learned the story of Thorin Oakenshield long before I arrived at Bilbo’s house all those weeks ago. The prince of a fallen stolen kingdom, who had to watch his grandfather die a terrible death and his father be lost to his grief. The prince who had to step up to find his people a new home. Once upon a time, I had been excited to meet him.

Not anymore. 

Looking back at it now, and with anger still flowing in my heart, that dwarf was nothing but a 150-year-old bastard who smelled like a wet warg’s ass from being in the woods for so long. Maybe that is why he acts like such a beast, he has finally blended with his surroundings. 

I let out a defeated sigh. What am I to do now? If I go back, there is a high chance a fight will start again for I am still mad and dwarves suck at apologies, or at least I am sure Thorin does. His idea of an apology would be something along the lines of  “sucks that you felt that way about us taking care of you” or a simple “unfuck you” probably.

Where was I? Oh yes, mulling my options. Well, I could always leave, although I am contractually obligated to this quest … and I could not do that to them. Damn, being the bigger person was hard. 

The sun was beginning to set and the light of a few stars shone through the darkening sky. A cold breeze picked up and I felt rushed to make a decision. Losing daylight was both good and bad when making a hasty departure. If I were to leave, the darkness would hide my absence from them until morn. Of course, I would prefer to not leave like a thief in the night, but I also do not want to see their faces as I go, scoffing at the cowardly human woman who could not handle their adventure.

However, my thoughts were interrupted by soft footsteps and crunching leaves. I stood with my back to the newcomer, still not ready to face whoever had joined me. 

“I do not mean to upset you any further, I have just come to apologize. We started on the wrong foot, and that is probably our fault.” 

I was not surprised they sent Fili to talk to me. Of all the dwarves, he had been the one who spoke to me the most. In total, we talked five times, and three of them were about needing more firewood, so yes, one could say we were very close. Gods, sarcasm seems to come easy to me today.

Truthfully, I was not very moved by his attempt to fix things. His apology did very little to lessen my anger, but it was an apology nonetheless and it was as good as it would get. 

Without turning, and with no intention of continuing this conversation, I hummed uninterested in reply. Fili, however, was not deterred. 

“We did not mean to make you feel that way. And for what is worth, I do not think you are weak. In the time I have known you, you have defeated all of your opponents and gained nothing but a few scratches when most of us have already been wounded at least once.”

I would have loved to tell him that that was because I have barely been in any of those battles, but at this point, it would have been going in circles. I already spoke my mind, and he was simply trying to make me feel better. 

“Thank you, Fili. You can go back now.” 

Although I appreciated his apology, I still wanted to be alone. Words could mean nothing, and so far their actions have said the opposite. 

Fili stood there for a bit. I could tell he was not sure what to do; I had dismissed him but he had not gotten the answer he had expected. Yet, he slowly turned and made his way back to the group. 

With a few deep breaths, I decided to go back to camp. After all, my belongings were there, and I knew it was not wise to make any decisions when one was so emotionally affected. 

With my best neutral expression and a steady pace, I rejoined the company. Silence settled among the travelers as soon as I came into view and nobody moved. As if I had noticed nothing, I made a beeline to my belongings, grabbed my daggers and my sharpening stone, and settled against the farthest tree. Without looking at anyone, and desperately trying to not show any emotion, I began my nightly ritual of caring for my weapons. Slowly, movement around camp picked up again, minus the usual chatter. Good, I am glad I stirred them up enough to silence them a bit. 

Of course, my enjoyment was short-lived and brought to an end by no other than -you guessed it, our most beloved leader.

“I would like to speak with you, about earlier.”

“I don’t think so.” My voice remained steady, my answer short and final. If I had to make a wild guess based on his sharp breathing, I would say His Majesty was not pleased with my answer.

“I advise we both walk a bit and discuss what transpired. Sitting and scowling at others like children will fix nothing,” there it was again, comparing me to little children and complaining about scowling. Him. It was laughable. 

“Thorin, I swear, if you do not step back, this is going to get very disrespectful very fast.”

Balin, always the mediator, came to his king’s aid as fast as lightning.

“Now lass, do not mind him; words are not his forte, as you already know.” Thorin’s scoff could not have been more evident, but seeing every other dwarf and hobbit looking at him with scrunched eyebrows made him snap his mouth closed. 

“We would all like to apologize to you for how we made you feel. You see, dwarves are usually born male; we have very few dams, so we treasure them dearly. Of course, they are not treated as delicate flowers, dwarrowdams are strong, determined, and as stubborn as any dwarf should be, so we have no excuse other than our culture’s care of women and a bit of prejudice toward humans being more um… easily harmed.” Weaker, your mind provided.

“I understand, but I think that is quite enough. I cannot continue being treated like this, otherwise what good am I doing to this company? Why am I here?” Maybe giving them some perspective will help, and an ultimatum “If this goes on, I will leave, find myself another job and you will have one less person to worry about.”

Shouts erupted around camp 

“What!?”

“Come on lass, there’s no need to do that,” 

“You can not leave us!"

I was surprised by their reaction.  They don’t trust me but don’t want me to leave either. Who understands them? 

“No, that is not the way to deal with this,” was Thorin’s response, his voice rising above the others. “Please, let us talk privately,” he tried once more. 

“Fine,” 

Setting my weapons aside, I followed Thorin into the forest. 

We walked for a bit, just close enough to see the others, but not be overheard. Thorin came to a stop and turned to face me. His expression was, as always, unreadable. His ever-present frown seemed to deepen as he looked for the right words to say. 

“It was never my intention to offend you,” his shoulders slouched as the words left his mouth, giving him an air of defeat. Gaze never meeting my eyes, he continued “I knew you were doing just fine without my help today, I just …”

“You just, what?”

“It is my responsibility to care for everyone in this company, and I care about you … very much,” he finished.

“You care about … me?” Confusion laced each of my words. 

Thorin’s grimace showed every ounce of embarrassment he felt and a soft blush graced his neck and cheeks. He scratched his beard roughly as if to muffle his words “Yes, I care about you and your safety. Especially your safety. I will not force you to remain with us, but if you do, I promise this will not happen again.”

He cares about me and my safety. I am so confused. I mean, sure, he is attractive and I admire him for all the hardships he has endured, but he has been a downright brute up until now, surely he doesn’t mean …. This is not how I thought this day was going to go.

“Okay, I appreciate it. However, I still think I should fully calm down to make a decision,”

My reply came out doubtful. I was still way too perplexed by the way things turned out. 

“Of course, I understand”

Thorin began his way back to camp when he stopped and looked at me over his shoulder, “I hope you choose to remain with us, it will be a shame to lose such a valuable warrior.” And with that, he left.

Why did that just make my cheeks feel warm?

---------------------

Here it is! I hope you like it and maybe be interested in part 3?

Feel free to give me some feedback in the comments! Also, if you have any requests let me know <3

Taglist: liscurrisa ; @farmerpinkpie ; @artaxerxesthegreat ; @tschrist1

#thorin oakenshield #the hobbit #tolkien #dwarf #thorin's company #thorin fanfic #middle earth #lotr #jrr tolkien #hobbit #the hobbit trilogy #bilbo baggins #thorin x reader #thorin x oc #botfa

[magnoliacharmed]

A Lot to Learn

(GIF credit - jasvvy)

18+, Drew McIntyre x Logan Paul, one-shot

[Also available on Archive of Our Own!]

Tags: Slight age difference, face fucking, anal sex, bruises, come eating

Word count: 2110

Author's Note:  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Logan pranced. He pranced and paraded and trounced around backstage like the little boy he was. There was only a ten year age difference between him and Drew, but it felt more like fifteen. He was just so immature— he had no idea what it was like to work his way up to the top. Drew had to claw to the main event, just to have the floor fall out from under him when it was his moment to shine. Logan skipped his way in with his silly social media clout and got the US title bestowed on him like a crown. A crown for a prince that would never truly be a king, a holdover belt to tide his ego over. At least Drew could say there was some prestige to the World Heavyweight Championship. With him earning it, because there was no other option but for him to win, it would gain even more honor. He was a Top Guy, an important figure, something Logan Paul could never be.

“You’re pushing my buttons, kid. I suggest you go find someone else to mess with.”

“No man, I’m doing just fine right here. Am I bothering you?”

Yes.

“You bother me the same way a gnat does. Mild irritation, nothing I can’t handle.”

“Oh?”

Drew shut his eyes and let his hands rest behind his head. Once Elimination Chamber was over, he and Logan would not be anywhere near each other event-wise. He could focus on more important, worthy opponents, men with years of experience that showed in their sore muscles and scratched up bodies. Logan’s chest was disgustingly unblemished. No scars or bruising, no ring burn discoloring his skin. It was soft, it was pretty… it was fresh. It’d been a while since Drew had seen anyone with so much newness about themselves. Apparently no one had gotten to him yet, not even Roman from what the locker room gossip whispered through the grapevine. So Logan was a bit of a princess, wasn’t just letting any knight in the castle. Interesting images began to form in Drew’s mind.

“Don’t you have to go get ready.” Drew hoped the finality in his voice came across to Logan. It seemed to register in his head, only to be immediately tossed out into his mental wastebin. Logan looked down at his silly yellow vest and smiled the smile of someone who knew how annoying he was being. 

“I am ready.”

Drew laughed. Ready, sure. Oh, the boy thought he was. 

—-

Elimination Chamber was a hard fought match. Once again though, Drew did what he did best. He brawled and won as it was meant to be. Even with Randy stalking around, Bobby giving it a fair shake, and LA Knight showing impressive drive to be the best, the other men didn’t stand a chance against Drew. His prophecy was inching closer to being fulfilled, with no help from Logan buzzing around the ring. He spent a good majority of the match taunting him, which Drew thought was quite bold. It was cute, he was like a puppy nipping at his heels for attention. Drew had noticed that was just the way he was, always poking and prodding at bigger men for scraps of acknowledgement. Maybe it was time to give him what he needed so he’d stop being such a fucking nuisance. 

“Great job out there Drew. Hope my dick drawing didn’t distract you too much.” Logan stood at Drew’s door a sweaty, disheveled, slightly pink mess. That worn out, used up look fit him a lot better. 

“Not at all. Nothing was going to get in my way of going to Wrestlemania… not you or your dick, sweetheart.”

A separate, deeper flush than the one that painted his chest colored Logan’s face as he smiled again. It didn’t quite reach his eyes this time due to some sort of anticipation and fear that flashed in his irises. 

“Thinking about my dick, are you Drew? I’m not surprised, I tend to have that effect on people.”

“You’re quite smug for someone who's had everything handed to him.”

Drew was up and approaching Logan before he could run out of the door and back into his hidey-hole of a dressing room. Probably nothing but bottles of Prime and yes men in there waiting to praise Logan for the bare minimum of selling like he was supposed to and not injuring anyone. It made Drew sick. Logan looked down at the knob and felt the cold surface of the door against his back while Drew’s heavy breathing made his chest rise and touch his. Drew had a lot of dark chest hair that Logan suddenly had to urge to rub his face in.

“You’re right, I have been given a lot. I can admit that I always get what I want, as long as I ask for it.” Logan stared up into Drew’s eyes with a pout that immediately made Drew’s cock stiffen up. 

“So you just asked for big matches? For the US Championship?”

“I asked. Triple H and the executives felt like I deserved it. It was a mutual thing.”

Drew’s expression hardened. What a little jerk, throwing his weight around like that. Of course they would let him get high profile events, he had millions of followers. That meant he deserved shots that the other guys who’d started out wrestling in high school gyms for free food would have never bothered to dream of. 

“What are you going to ask for now?”

The skin around Logan’s eyes creased when he laughed. It sounded undone and nervous, no usual unearned confidence making it too loud of a noise.

“You gonna show me more of what’s under that kilt? I think you tried flashing me as a distraction so you could win.”

“I would’ve won whether I did or didn’t flash you.”

Drew removed his kilt and pulled down his trunks in quick succession, exposing himself to Logan without ever looking away from his face. The sides of Logan’s mouth twitched when he saw how perfectly thick Drew’s cock was. It was crazy he wore trunks knowing he was that was big.

“Nice.”

“Hm. You know what you’re gonna do for me, Logan? You’re going to earn what you want tonight. For the first time in your life, you’re going to have to work for your reward. Got it?”

Logan shrugged and decided to throw caution to the wind. He always got what he wanted in the end. It might take a few false starts and pit stops, but it worked out in one way or the other. He rubbed his face into Drew’s chest and inhaled deeply. His post-match sweat was intoxicatingly strong and only served to make Logan rush to get on his knees. Drew rolled his eyes at the way he exaggeratingly crossed his eyes at the length of his dick. Everything was a joke to this kid. 

Logan pulled out his own cock as he took Drew into his warm mouth. The scent of his sweat was amplified twice over that close to his balls and his mass of equally dark pubic hair. Wrapping his hand around himself, he felt precome drip out onto his fingers. Drew was already groaning from the way Logan hollowed out his cheeks around his dick. 

“You’re a pro at this, huh? Been getting your practice in on the other boys?”

“Not yet,” Logan squeezed himself and stroked with a fervor, then continued to suck. 

Drew couldn’t help but to feel like he was going to come thinking about Logan with his mouth open and waiting for Roman or LA Knight or Santos, any one of the guys he’d provoked over the last year or so, to paint his tongue back to back. His hands reached to grab into the weirdly cut strands of Logan’s hair so he could push his dick past his tongue and down into his throat. Surprisingly he took it well with no tears spilling out or teeth scraping the sensitive skin. Drew closed his eyes and shoved Logan’s head completely against himself, letting the boy gag around him until he slapped a hand against his thigh to let him breathe. Although he felt like he’d die from the loss of sensation and wet, pretty noises, Drew slowly removed himself from Logan’s mouth. 

“I was just about to come too, fuck.” Logan poked his bottom lip out petulantly. 

“You’ll be happy you didn’t.”

Logan was pulled up off of his knees only to be dragged over to the nearest couch. Drew took his time and got comfortable when sat down on it, spreading his legs wide open and letting his cock bob in the air. 

“Come on, take those off and come sit in my lap,” Drew patted at his upper thighs, also covered in hair, and winked at Logan. He wasn’t done with him yet, not by a long shot. From the speed in which Logan stripped down, he knew he wasn't done either. 

Drew picked up a bottle of lube from the side table and squeezed a generous amount into his hand to smooth across his dick. All of Logan’s thoughts, what few he had in the first place, left the building when he sank down onto Drew in one swift movement. Drew’s eyes widened in surprise; he didn’t know Logan was that capable. 

“Aren’t you a good boy?” 

Drew began to fuck up into Logan before he could respond. His face slackened up in ecstasy with every thrust inside of him. Logan attempted to ride back against him, but his aching legs betrayed him by shaking. Not only was he being fucked harder than he’d ever been, the chamber match had done a number on him too. Maybe Drew and the others thought he was just there to bring fresh eyes to the program, but he really was trying his hardest in the ring. Just as soon as he was ready to give up and let himself enjoy it all, Drew pressed his fingers harshly into the flesh of his hips. The sudden pain gave him a jolt that motivated him to grind deep and huff out shallowly. 

“There you go. I knew you’d like that, baby,” Drew smoothed over the marks he’d left deep in Logan’s skin. It was a good thing he wore tights instead of trunks, or else the top brass would have his head for leaving their golden boy all ruined. Logan responded with a steadying breath that turned into a destroyed moan when Drew grabbed at his twitching cock. Gasps fell from Logan’s mouth every time Drew stroked him with his rough palm while he plunged himself as far as he could go inside of him. 

“Please Drew, please—“

Drew watched as Logan’s body shuddered hard while he came. It leaked out messily onto his hand, Logan bucking up into his fist involuntarily from the orgasm. His vision cleared up enough to see Drew holding up said hand to his lips for him to clean up. With the first couple of licks, Drew once again sank his fingers back into the bruises on Logan’s hip to lift him up off of his dick. Seconds later, he felt the warmth of Drew’s come splash across his ass and the very bottom of his lower back. 

“Really got me good here,” Logan ran the pads of his fingers against his reddish-purple bruises and bit back a moan. 

“Wanted to leave a little something behind. Now you’ve got some scars, something that proves you can take a little pain. It looks like you like having them, too, which is an even better sign. It means you’re finally on your way to becoming a worthy competitor. Maybe one day you’ll face me for the title.”

Drew’s smile was patronizingly sweet as he ruffled up Logan's stupid haircut further. Logan was still a young man. It’d take a lot of hard work and practice, not necessarily with Drew alone, to really turn him into the best he could be. 

“Yeah, maybe so.”

“Until then, you come find me or any of the other guys and we’ll try to help you, okay?”

Logan nodded as he put his gear back on in a daze, not even bothering to clean himself up. 

“We won’t break you— not too badly anyways.”

Logan let a weird smile spread across his face when he reached the doorway. It was huge, all teeth and kind of crazy with the corresponding way his pupils blew out and let the blue that surrounded them turn into little slivers..

“What if I wanna be broken?” 

#drew mcintyre #logan paul #wwe #elimination chamber #wrestling #magnoliafanfic #wrestling smut #wwe smut #wwe fanfiction

[kimium]

Based on our conversation the other day, because I love hearing what things you love, please list and describe your top 5 favourite moments in Twisted Wonderland so far (from the main plot or side events💜)

I am so excited to answer this, friend! I loved having our conversation together earlier this week as I am always ready to discuss Twisted Wonderland.

To clarify to everyone: I only play on the English server so I will only talk about those events. I'm also going to stick to the main story/events. Vignettes are an entirely separate list.

Also, spoilers for Twisted Wonderland!

My Top Five Favourite Moments in Twisted Wonderland

5. Leona being "volun-told" to help - Fairy Tale Gala

We start this list with an event story! Fairy Tale Gala is one of my most favourite events, mostly due to aesthetic and story. Leona is also one of my most favourite housewardens! So, naturally, this scene had to end up on my list!

What makes this scene so memorable to me is not just the humour of the situation. Of course, one aspect of Twisted Wonderland that is endlessly funny is how the housewardens (minus Kalim) don't jump to help others. This is especially funny in the Fairy Tale Gala as Leona is "volun-told" that he's the one picked to walk on the runway. I loved his grumpiness upon realizing that he has to go through with the plan.

4. How Yuu persuades Leona to help - Book 3

Another Leona centred scene! I love Yuu, post Leona's overblot, deciding "Yes, I'm not scared of Leona. Yes, this means I'm going to be the biggest, loudest nuisance possible until he agrees to help" is priceless. It also WORKS?? which makes it priceless. I can't even imagine what the rest of the dorm was thinking. They're recovering from Leona's overblot and now this? I bet everyone's relief that Leona agreed to help was palpable the following day. Though, Leona is a bit of a tsundere, so he was bound to help out anyways ahaha.

3. Rook delivering Vil's moisturizer/lotions - Book 6

I want everyone to know that this encompasses the entire set-up to the punchline of the joke which is "Rook flies halfway across the world to STYX, trespasses, and is nearly killed on sight all to give Vil his moisturizer/lotions." What adds to this punchline is Idia's entire reaction. The sheer humour of Rook going "Oh no, I'm not here to break my housewarden (boyfriend) out of STYX." and proceeds to reveal the truth of his visit? That's comedic gold.

Of course, Vil ends up using it to escape which Rook obviously knew he'd do. However, Rook left the breaking out to Vil and sincerely only came to give the product to Vil.

2. Yuu crashing into Octavinelle - Book 4

I love this scene because it's a stroke of luck/coincidence that Yuu gets Octavinelle involved. There is something about a character desperate for help only to receive it from their prior enemies that makes my happy. Especially when no one expects it. Easily, one of my favourite tropes. I know eventually all dorms help, but Octavinelle is one of the more antagonistic dorms in their book. That makes their decision to help Yuu out all the better for me.

Yuu finding out "Tsunotarou's" identity - Book 5

One of my all-time favourite trope is a dramatic identity reveal. I live for them, especially when the reveal happens in a moment of crisis. So, by far my most favourite scene in Twisted Wonderland is when Yuu finally learns the identity of Malleus.

As someone who loves Malleus, I was waiting with anticipation to how Yuu would discover the truth. Especially when I knew Malleus would arrive to watch the dance competition. The story did not disappoint me. The other's reactions to Yuu casually calling The Crown Prince to Briar Valley "Tsunotarou" lives rent free in my mind. I have replayed that scene multiple times and every time it makes me happy.

And there you have it, friend! I hope you enjoyed my list! I await your own list of top five favourite scenes from Twisted Wonderland! Please, let us know!

#personal #replies #twisted wonderland #my favourite scenes

[lured-into-wonderland]

from [x] with @royaletiquette

Scolded. That was how she felt when he told that his days were filled with work. She should be more concerned with work, shouldn’t she? To show him that she could become a queen.Is queen. Surely, she could…Nunnally did not manage to fully consider his words when another sentence made her blush more than she intended. Luckily, they were far enough from the others making Hibiya the only person that might have noticed it.

( “Sometimes like tonight, my hobbies and work crossover fairly easily…”) – Work? Was that all that she was for him? Yes, their marriage was arranged. Power and politics involved. But she hoped…No matter. Whatever she hoped for, it probably was not going to happen, so all she could do was to put one of her well-trained smiles, and play the role she was supposed to play. You play with the cards you have...

A perfect princess. A perfect fiancée. A perfect bride. A perfect wife. A perfect queen. A perfect…  But she did not want to be perfect. 

And she was not. She noticed the gasps as she tripped. Yes, they made her feel embarrassed and she was happy when Hibiya ended the dance and led her outside. She was grateful for how considerate he was and the fresh air was, indeed, helpful.

“Thank you.” – she said as they found themselves in the garden – “A few moments for ourselves would be nice.” – the gardens were beautiful and Nunnally was wondering how much time she would spend here. It was going to be her home now. Even if their marriage would not happen instantly, she would be staying here. Learning his country. The court. Her duties. She was already rather calm, when they walked close to the lit path the prince suggested taking. His suggestion came as a surprise and Nunnally had to use her all her will not to stop abruptly and ask him why this out of a sudden. Instead, she casually made a few more steps, and only then turned around to face her husband-to-be. Her eyes were shining with some sort of impatience, the quiet yet eager agreement to his words, but her own reply was considerately calm. Perhaps even with slight opposition to her face.

“That would be nice. Thank you. I’d like that. I think it is a pity we couldn’t have met and talked before this event.” – she smiled to him, but added no more explanation; so far words only caused issues for her – “If you think, we could disappear from the ball for a few moments, then…yes, let’s do that. But I do not think we could leave for long. After all it is our event, and we have the role to play there.” – she smiled – “The first one we are playing together.” – Nunnally opened a fan to get some more fresh air. It was warm even in the gardens. And the dress was tight. But also the fan offered her a little bit privacy hiding her face, even if so slightly, from the prince.

“You do not need to worry about me.” – she added when Hibiya suggested to leave her alone – “I am able to go there and do what is expected…and required. I will not…” – she was going to say ‘embarrass you again’, but Nunnally decided she was not going to shame herself – “I am fine. I will be fine. I promise.”

“I do not need a minute alone. I’d rather you stay.”

She could already notice some eyes on them again, but this time she did care less. She was taught how to handle that. Even if she did not show it previously. But back then she wanted to be Nunnally. With Hibiya. Now she knew it was not possible. Nor wanted? At least not then. They were not Nunnally and Hibiya, but rather Princess Nunnally and Prince Hibiya. A princess and a prince. A future queen and a future king.

She shut the fan. She was ready.

“Shall we?” – She was ready.  For whatever he decided.      

#hibiya #nunnally #verse: royal #royaletiquette #and that is #how misunderstandings are made #got slightly long

[the-vault-apprentice]

Tags from @sky-sogira

*cracks knuckles*

Alright. Let's get into this. My faith may not be as strong as it once was, but my knowledge is unshakable.

Disclaimer: I am not a scholar, I am not a theologist, I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and I LOVE Sky.

Second disclaimer: I am not trying to preach to anyone, just put in my perspective as someone who grew up in Christianity.

So! The easy one. Lucifer was actually NOT really the devil's name first- Lucifer was the name of a minor Roman god. The god of the morning star, which shines very brightly. The name "Lucifer" MEANS "Bringer of light" and is the base for the names of the chemicals that make fireflies glow- Lucifern and Lucifrase? I probably spelled them wrong. When the Bible was being standardized, they took this name to show that Satan had once been both powerful and beloved, at least.... That's how my father told it. He was wrong about a LOT of things, so take that with a grain of salt. What IS certain fact is that Lucifer means "bringer of light" and WAS a Roman god of the morning star. This I am sure of.

Sky takes design elements from MANY sources, but the story is undoubtedly biblical. And that really shouldn't be a surprise, given that the bible is really freaking old and has quite a lot of stuff in it! Like.... A LOT of stuff and some of it doesn't make any sense at all. I mean, there was a law about if a thief got away before the sunrise, it was their stuff now or something? It's been a while since I read those particular verses, forgive my casualness but it's 7 am and I'm doing this off the top of my head while getting ready for the day.

Okay. Take a breath. You still with me? Good. Because I'm about to basically speedrun not only the bible, but my church's scripture as well- The Book of Morm-n.

I am censoring it because I have the name blacklisted after seeing so much hate and ignorance and straight-up MALICE on this website, so if you reblog this, PLEASE don't actually spell it out or I will not be able to view the post. Thank you.

So God (by whatever name you'd like) has his "chosen people". He helps and strengthens them and shows them miracles, yes? And as long as they listen to Him, they are blessed. Seems like a good deal to ME, but you know how it is with humans. Give them too much success and they get cocky. Turn their backs on God and start giving THEMSELVES the credit- Which.... Doesn't sit too well. Consequently, they lose His favor and his help until they humble themselves and realize it WAS thanks to Him they were able to get this far. Rinse and repeat for a few thousand years or so.

Basically, God is HAPPY to help out as long as you don't forget He IS helping. But humans are forgetful and they eventually fall away and need to learn they need His help. We call it the Pride Cycle in my church, and it IS a cycle. You see it over and over again.

Now, if we draw parallels and look at Megabird as "God" and perhaps Resh as "Satan", more things click.

Whatever happened in Eden was BIG. Like major ultimate, plain apocalyptic. And now the cycle of the spirits returning to Megabird can't continue because SOMEBODY had to mess it up with something more powerful than simple indifference. This wasn't just the ancestors turning their backs on Megabird, this was them PHYSICALLY UNABLE to return to the light because of the darkness.

And that's why Skykids were created. To do what they no longer could.

Now, then, if- As I believe- Resh is the king and Alef is the prince and they are not the same, then it also seems likely that Alef was the FIRST Skykid. Like an olive branch from Megabird- "I want you to come back. Please don't go further. There IS a way back, and I will give it to you."

To continue the comparison, it would be appropriate to compare Alef to Christ in this sense- The sense of being "firstborn", of being a PRINCE rather than a king.

And all the other Skykids ALSO fit this comparison because of the fact we lose our light and life so the spirits can go home.

But UNLIKE what is taught in Christianity, it is not a PERMANENT saving, evidenced by the fact that the spirits- and the Skykids- RETURN to the world. It is also possible that Alef was sent BEFORE the fall of Eden as a warning almost- Telling Resh all was not yet lost and he could STOP and be forgiven still.

But Satan's crime was pride and I believe it is the same with Resh. They want the power and the glory and the credit that rightly belongs to another- The being which MADE them. So of course he would not have stopped.

Of course, the Ark, Eden's name... There are other parallels to be made, and this is all just speculation from me based on what I think.

#sky: children of the light #that sky game #sky: cotl #holy ship that was long #uhhhhh #tw: christianity #I swear I am not preaching merely informing

[hummingbird-of-light]

Against All Odds

Part 133

McCoy

McCoy was glad over the last weeks that everyone around the school had gotten more used to him. And to him spending time with whomever he chose. More than half the school assumed he and Christine were a couple, which was fine for both of them. It definitely gave him and Scotty more privacy. And Christine got to call and chat with her own boyfriend more.

McCoy had actually met him on one of Christine’s calls. He was a very nice boy and even through a screen, McCoy could tell how much they loved each other. Though he may have just been seeing everything through the lens of his own love.

He was looking forward to meeting the parents of some of his new friends. He smiled at the thought as he finished making his bed. What had this school done to him that he was looking forward to meeting people?

“Were you ready sir?” Spock asked.

“Yep.”

Both of Spock’s parents were coming with McCoy’s and even through his expression-less facade, McCoy could see Spock’s joy. Spock and his mother were very close.

There was an unusual buzz of excitement at the breakfast table. Families would be arriving not long after and everyone would be free to show them around before the big lunch feast.

“Leah is coming,” McCoy said across to Spock. “She said she’s missed you more than me.” He grinned.

“I doubt that,” Spock said.

“The princess is coming?” Robbie choked out next to Scotty.

“Yes, and I’m sure she’d love someone who knows the school so well to show her around,” McCoy said smiling at Robbie.

The young Scotsman’s color rose on his face. Scotty laughed at him. McCoy bumped his knee into Scotty’s. They sat together or across from each other most meals now. Archer seemed to realize finally that McCoy would do what he wanted and make friends with who he wanted. Helping the teacher with Scotty learning to swim seemed to really have shown Archer that McCoy didn’t care about statuses.

“You going to introduce Chris to your parents?” Jim said from across the table and winked at McCoy.

McCoy nodded. “Of course,” he said matter of factly.

Jim still didn’t know about McCoy and Scotty. And McCoy knew that Jim was the origin of some of the biggest rumors about himself and Christine.

“Would you like to meet them too?” McCoy asked back to Jim.

Jim’s eyebrows went up.

“I’m sure Spock’s parents would love to meet you as well,” McCoy continued.

Spock and Jim had continued to become better acquainted over the last month as well, though they had moved nowhere near as fast as McCoy and Scotty.

Jim began to turn red and even Spock showed a flush across his cheeks. McCoy let out a laugh.

“I’d like them to meet all of you,” he said after he laughed.

He caught the nervous look of Scotty’s face and slyly reached down and squeezed his fingers.

“They’ll be quite glad that I have made friends with all of you.”

And McCoy was glad too.

After breakfast McCoy walked to the library. He and Scotty usually met on weekend mornings there. He arrived at their normal spot and found Scotty pacing back and forth. McCoy caught his shoulders and pulled him in for a hug.

“I promise,” he started, “they will love you. You know Leah already does. If anything they’re kinder than I am at first.”

He smiled self-deprecatingly as he pulled back to see Scotty’s face.

“Is your grandfather coming too, or just your mum?”

Part 134

Scotty

His stomach was twisting and turning in excitement. Of course, he had seen Leonard's father from afar when the prince had joined the school. However, this was something different. He'd actually meet the king and queen today.

It calmed him a little bit when Leonard said that his parents were gonna love the Scotsman. He sure knew Leah liked him a lot. They had had a few calls over the last weeks.

Today he'd finally meet her in person though.

"Aye, I guess," Scotty answered Leonard's question. He had told his boyfriend a lot about his grandfather who was a very nice but also stern man.

"I'm looking forward to meet them both," Leonard said with a big smile. And Scotty believed him. The prince had become more and more social. He liked to make new contacts.

"I have to get ready for our final band practice."

Scotty didn't want to leave but he had a job to do. And Leonard understood.

"Have fun."

He pressed a kiss onto Scotty's lips before the Scotsman left for the music room.

Today was a big day for every student. He saw a lot of lads and lasses run around, trying to finish last preparations.

It reminded him of the day Leonard had arrived.

Practice went quite well and the band stood proudly in front of the gathered crowd of students and parents. Scotty smiled at Leonard. The boy was sitting in one of the front rows of the auditorium. He was accompanied by King David and Queen Eleanor. And of course Princess Leah. Spock was there as well. His parents sat next to the young Vulcan. Scotty still couldn't believe that Spock's mother was human.

"One, two, three, four."

The band started playing. Scotty didn't get the chance to search for his own family in the crowd. He had to concentrate.

They were rewarded with lots of applause after their performance. Scotty puffed his chest, happy about their success.

When the crowd parted and Scotty wanted to pack his bagpipes back into the case, he was suddenly hugged rapturously.

“Monty!”

Scotty chuckled softly while kisses were pressed to his cheeks and forehead.

“Màthair, fàilte.”

His mother was smiling brightly at him. She looked just so proud.

And Scotty felt utterly happy to see her. He had missed his mother quite a lot. He looked over her shoulder to see his grandfather and Robbie.

“Montgomery.”

At first his grandfather looked very serious but eventually a smile formed on his lips and he opened his arms.

Scotty ran over to him and hugged the old man tightly.

“You did great son.”

“Thanks!”

His grandfather was one of the greatest bagpipe players he knew. And to get a compliment from him was an honor.

“Hello Robbie.”

They all turned at a familiar voice.

Leah. She was walking over to them with the rest of her family.

Scotty could see his brother blush instantly and he had to hide his cheeky grin.

“Oh lord… y-yer highnesses.”

Scotty’s mother bowed down when she realized who was standing in front of them.

And Scotty did the same. It wasn’t just Leonard after all.

#star trek #montgomery scott #leonard mccoy #scones #au #against all odds #meeting the parents

[jessjustplay]

Princess Maker 2 - Game Archive 2

June 28, 2022

Nico Lynn

This game is addicting. I played a new game on Saturday from start to finish. I really shouldn’t be doing that! Next time, as in, this upcoming weekend, I need to just play 10 to 14 years of age first, take a break, and then finish years 14 to 18.

Anyways, I did a lot better this time! I didn’t immediately put her in classes, so I didn’t go broke the first few years of her life. I’m pretty sure that’s what caused her to run away so much during my first run. For some reason though… she ran away twice when she was 17?? I was totally not expecting that! I think I made her work too much. Sigh.

Name: Nico Lynn Birthday: September 1 Zodiac Sign: Virgo Guardian: Mercury

Job Ending: Dancer Married? Yes, to Affable Gentle Merchant.

Height: 148.20cm Weight: 46.70kg B: 79.77cm W: 58.08cm H: 83.18cm

Physical Fitness: 346 Strength: 0 Intelligence: 121 Elegance: 111 Glamour: 208 Morality: 39 Faith: 125 Sin: 0 Sensitivity: 453

Fighter Reputation: 37 CBT SKL: 21 ATK: 16 DEF: 8

Magic Reputation: 80 MAG SKL: 24 MAG ATK: 14 MAG DEF: 100

Social Reputation: 283 Decorum: 103 ART SKL: 104 Speech: 100

Housework Reputation: 201 Cooking: 103 Cleaning: 67 Personal: 52

Most Executed Study: Dance Most Executed Job: Hairdresser

Monsters Slaughtered: 1 Maternal Instinct: 12 Relationship with Father: 1 Relationship with Butler: 8 Relationship with Prince: 96

Total Points: 165

————————————————–

“Dancing is my purpose in life. I want to challenge myself with new choreographic arrangements.” – Nico

————————————————–

Harvest Festival

It was tough having her birthday on September 1st. Right away when she was 10, I had the option to attend the Harvest Festival. I didn’t think she was ready for it, so we skipped it. I had her participate in the Cooking Contest twice and she won 2nd place one time, which was nice! You get 2,000g for winning 2nd place.

When she turned 14, she bumped into that Marcia girl who challenged her to the Cooking Contest. Unfortunately, at this point I had made a decision to put her in the Dancing competition, so she kept getting upset that I wouldn’t let her participate in the Cooking Contest.

She won 1st place when she was 17! It was awesome! I think for my next game I’m going to focus more on the Dance Competition and hopefully win a lot of gold this way. Her overall score for 1st place was 322 points.

“It’s like a dream! My father will be happy, for sure!” – Nico

————————————————–

“Nico made an excellent start as a dancer. After that, Nico presented her own creative dances and continued her ambitious career.”

————————————————–

This time, instead of babysitting, I had her work at the farm a lot which really helped my income. When she finally got good at the Hairdresser job, I was able to have a consistent job-lesson-rest routine. The Hairdresser job pays great, but it sucked seeing all my Strength go down (since she gained a lot while working at the farm).However, I’m not trying to get her to become a warrior, so I suppose that’s just something that I have to deal with.

I read online that having a high housekeeping score is what makes her turn into a housewife. My score was pretty high so I was really hard to raise my social status by having her work at the bar. It worked! I also went to the castle to try to get my reputation up. I think going to the castle helps raise that? I only visited the castle like 2x during my first game (totally forgot about it) so during this run I made sure to visit the castle more often.

During my visits to the castle, I was able to talk to the gate keeper, the knight dude, the general, the QUEEN (multiple times), and during her very last month before turning 18 she talked to the King! I was really happy about that. She also talked to the prince every January, but somehow we only got a 96 score? So not sure what happened there!

Overall, these past 2 games have really helped me learn more about the game and it’s mechanics. I am excited for daughter #3! I think I’ll name her Yuna.

#princess maker 2 #princess maker

[thesunandthewater]

Viserys makes his way to the throne room and waits for Daemon, straightening when they finally drag the hungover Prince inside.

"Get your hands off me," Daemon drawls, grunting as he's thrown to the floor. "Viserys, what th'fuck is this?"

"I know what you've done," Viserys says plainly. "I've been told about last night." He waits for Daemon to say something, scoffing when he doesn't. "And you sit there and deny nothing."

Daemon sighs heavily. "It was a fun outing, we did nothing-"

"YOU DEFILED RHAENYRA." Viserys shouts. "I try and try to prove to people you are not as vile as they think you may be-"

"The city actually loves me," Daemon smirks. "Because Lili and I showed our faces among the masses."

"So I am told." He studies Daemon for a long moment. "You know, on this day, you should be very thankful for Lili's support and generosity. She is the only reason I don't beat you bloody right now. Not only did she save your reputation with Ser Otto Hightower- but she successfully negotiated the reappointment of your titles."

Daemon slowly looks up. "What are you speaking of, brother?"

"I am giving you... a singular chance," Viserys says slowly, "And if you screw up... there will be consequences."

"Viserys what are you-"

"Tomorrow, you will be appointed as my Named Heir to the throne." Viserys nods a little. "You will also... be appointed as my Hand."

Daemon's eyes widen. "What- why-"

"The City Watch will be given to Ser Harwin Strong, as I've just recently decided, thanks to his victory at the tournament. You will no longer have the Commander title but you will be Heir and Hand- I should think that sufficient, yes?"

"I- yes of course," Daemon nods quickly, "Brother... thank you," he breathes, "Thank you- I won't disappoint you. I swear it."

Viserys huffs. "I know you won't. There is one last bit of information that comes with these titles."

"Yes? What is it?" Daemon pushes himself to his feet, suddenly more sober than he's felt all morning.

"You will wed Lili." Viserys studies him. "Marrying within the family is the smartest choice and after this stunt with Rhaenyra I've decided a marriage there is absolutely off limits. As my Named Heir you and Lili will be responsible for the succession of the Targaryen bloodline. You will fulfill your duties and-"

"I will protect her," Daemon says softly. "I will protect her with my life. I will be a good husband."

"You better. Because you weren't planning to do so with Lady Rhea."

"That was- I had no desire to marry her."

Viserys raises a brow. "Do you desire to marry Lili? Because that would be news to my ears."

"I- she isn't my last choice on this earth. And she's a very dear friend." He nods a little. And... at least he'll be close to Rhaenyra still, this way. Still have access to speak with her.

"Then it is done." Viserys nods once. "I will start marriage preparations. Stay in the Keep today. Tidy yourself up at once. Prepare for tomorrow's announcements. And, gods, be ready for pushback. I don't yet know what the Hightowers are capable of but they will certainly be most unhappy to learn of Otto's demotion."

Daemon smirks a little. "I wish for the day that Otto Hightower gives me an excuse to cut his fucking head from his-"

"Save such unpleasantness for later," Viserys gestures to the door. "Go, brother. Tidy up. I'm still frustrated with you. It's best if you leave before I get more irritated. Congratulations on your appointment."

Daemon bows his head, slowly backing toward the door. "I won't let you down, Viserys. I never have."

"Not until last night."

"I- I won't apologize. But I want you to know that I will not be a disappointment." He bows one last time before hurrying out of the throne room, hell bent on finding you.

I haven’t found Rhaenyra yet by the time I see Daemon barreling down the hallways, “have you seen Rhaenyra?” I call to him.

[ducknotinarow]

tea prompts - BlitzoStolas

tea prompts

lemon tea; what are mornings like with them? "THE WORST! My Blitzy always is going on about the nonsense of leaving me so he can go meet with clients and kill humans." Stolas is dramatic but he dose enjoy mornings with Blitz so much so he hates it cause he knows they gotta get up and head off to work. And well he wants to be a good supportive future husband to his imp he also would like them to stay in bed cuddling him more it's a tough life for the owl.

peppermint tea; what do they get excited about?

"Many things, I love watching Blitz's face light up when it's his turn to pick something to watch. Though sometimes I pick something he likes just to see his expression. When Blitz is having a good stream of workflow. Getting Blitzy all to myself when we got out, when he undresses" The answer is Blitz. Blitz makes Stolas excited, Stolas never got to truly experience love like most. It wasn't even much of an option in his life he always liked the idea of love and what came with it but life didn't go that way so when he and Blitz started to hook up and Stolas started to get feelings he started to experience a lot of those firsts so he can't help but just become ethuishtc when the imp even simply calls him. Stolas is no different than a young person going through thier first experience despite their age which adds a lot to it.

chamomile tea; what is their sleep schedule like? does it change around their s/o?

"I tend to stay up late into the night often unless I have to be up during the day, I can easily stay up throughout the night and sleep through the day if I am able to as well. I like to coordinate my schedule a bit better so that I can spend time with my little imp." Stolas likes to be up late at night since it means he can stargaze, he does stay up pretty late no matter what but does sleep in the nighttime since he does have to do work and such during the day when others are up. If he has a free schedule though he is more likely to stay up all night which means he is sleeping the following day away. He likes to be available for Blitz as well just in case something happens and he can come to thier aid quickly.

earl grey tea; how did they court their s/o?

"Well at first it was strictly only physical, but then I started trying to spend time with them outside our full moon meetings. Inviting him out to join me at the Harvest moon festival. Asking them over for movies nights even if they wanted, complimenting them at every given turn pet name after name. Trying to learn his interests to better know him and try to open the table for conversation together." Of course, Stolas and Blitz were sampling fucking at first but once Stolas took a liking to Blitz he changed his tone fast any chance to see them he took or offered even if it meant paying them for a job. Once they started to give it go themselves? Stolas actually starting ready 'dating guides he would really hate if any imps found that out uwu trying to do right by Blitz, paying more attention to thier actions and wishing to learn to read them better and it made Stolas fall for them even more because Blitz talks a lot but it's his actions that seem to be what to watch.

milk tea; what are their kisses like?

"The warmest, most passionate filled, enough to make you go weak in the knees. Aggressive and commanding, sweet and soft" Stolas like kissing blitz uwu, Stolas himself is far more loving and soft with his kissing. Always letting his emotions through the action.

coffee; do they get jealous easily? how do they show it? "It may be silly but I can yes be jealous I know I'm a prince how can I but well I've seen who Blitz has dated and clearly I'm not the only one who sees how amazing he is." Stolas isn't like an aggressive jealous person but he can feel it lack of experience and such adds to this and well lets be honest Blitz clearly has a good record on the kind of people he had bagged to date.

rosehip tea; how romantic are they? how do they show affection?

"I like to think very romantic" Stolas I feel is the hopeless romantic type the idea of love and all that is something he just find to be perfect and great. The idea makes him giddy he lives for anything in the genre as well.

black tea; what do they look for in a person?

"Hmm someone who I guess can be themself around me, someone I can count on to maybe let me do the same? If i can bring myself to." Stolas is used to living up the role as a prince and he wants someone who will take him as he is who won't mind when he goes off about plants and stars or when he gets worked up over his favorite show. He just wants to feel seen, accepted and not alone.

pomegranate tea; at what point did they know they loved their s/o?

"hmm thats hard to say because it snuck up on me suddenly, I was clearly attracted to my little imp, but after a time seeing him wasn't because of sexual desire or excitement but because I just wanted to see him. I wanted to see his smirky grin just sit and hear about his day want him to open up and let me get to know him even." Stolas was so tied up in his deal with the imp that he thought it was just infatution at first but as he got to spend more and more time with them chances and glimpse to see them beyond that original reason for thier deal he started to fall in love with them.

matcha tea; how and when do they propose to their s/o?

"Oh I would do so right now but he made such a point to say he had a ring picked and well, I couldn't take that from him." As much as Stolas would love to pop the question to Blitz he just can not, not after how Blitz went out to pout thier heart out about telling Stolas he wouldn't be an awful husband when he expressed that worry to the imp and even pointed out the ring they would do it with. Stolas has learned that love may not have been something he could have but instead sometimes that he had to wait for he will wait forever because he knows Blitz is the one for him now.

chai tea; how do they spice up their relationship? "Oh my Blitzy is always ready to spice things up with me~" Stolas is one kinky demon but Blitz isn't any better with the stuff he is into so its no wonder it works for them hook up Stolas wanting to try everything and blitz being willing or just already something he dose.

hibiscus tea; what’s their favourite place to take their s/o?

"Well not so much take but I love showing Blitzy the stars, I love showing him the constellations like pegeasus or Sagittarius even." Stolas loves to share the stars with Blitz, because he find them to be just that special and he wants to share them with the imp the most. Show them a whole new world that is out there. To him it's like a world just for the two of them.

green tea; how do they comfort their s/o? 

"If he lets me you mean, but I like to stroke his forehead or his horns gentle small storks to help ease him and calm him down well speaking softly. he so easily riled up I mean it's adorable but he gets so fussy so I think trying to calm him is the best." Stolas knows Blitz can be difficult and stubborn but that doesn't mean he wont still try to comfort them. Resorting to more gentle approaches a hushed tone and soft touches to help wind them down. Just trying to offer them a sort of safe space if he is able todo so.

russian caravan tea; how experienced are they with relationships?

"Oh simple I am not." Stolas was put into an arranged marriage with Stella there wasn't really time for Stolas to date he was pretty much born to be a prince take over from his father and so on meaning, he needed to marry and produce heirs himself as is the way. Stolas never truly got much say in anything so when it comes to experience with relationships? he has none, outside living through his favorite character on Hell-a-noveal.

english breakfast tea; would they want a family?

"I do love my daughter she is my starlight, she is so amazing truly she brights the world the moment she wakes up." Family is a bit of a touchy and tricky subject for Stolas. He loves his daughter Octiva that is one thing that will always be true for him, so it's hard to denounce something in her life because of that. He does like the idea of a family he would love if he and Blitz could become a blended family one day, so they could make a family together instead.

rooibos tea; what’s their favourite thing to do with their s/o?

"anything and everything" Stolas hates being alone, he hates having to go anywhere by himself he hates to be home alone no matter what he just doesn't like being alone feeling alone is bad enough so if he just enjoys being around Blitz. Watching tv with them, cuddling or drinking even he enjoys it all and anything they want to do is fine by Stolas going out on dates or just sitting around thier office when he isn't busy is good to Stoals.

#muse| stolas #madamkezzie #aflockoffeathers #[how do we rewrite the stars? say you were made to be mine aflockoffeathers] #meme answers

[c-is-for-circinate]

As promised: let's talk Hades, and how acts of abuse can create toxic environments for everyone around them, and also how people react to those environments--and to them being disrupted.

(For reference, I have just kicked Theseus's ass for the first time, it was exactly as satisfying as it was intended to be, and then I got predictably slaughtered a couple of chambers into Styx. Spoilers for everything through that point, but please no spoilers in reblogs/comments for anything after that!) Also, TW for a whole lot of discussion of abuse, particularly verbal and emotional abuse, and abusive familyworkplace dynamics.

Okay, so. To start out with, Hades is an abusive parent. He engages in innumerable acts of verbal and emotional abuse towards his son, because yep, that's what you call it when a parent constantly berates and belittles their kid for every perceived failure, including the ones the parent themselves could have prevented. Sometimes especially the ones the parent could have prevented. Zagreus failed at his office clerk job because Hades refused to teach him how to do it and then blamed him for not already knowing how. Cerberus tore up the lounge because Hades, who was actually there, chose not to stop him. Hades created, possibly deliberately, and then took full advantage of every opportunity he saw to insult and demean his kid, and the clerk job flashback shows us that he was doing so even before the escape attempts started. I'm pretty sure we're all on the same page here, but: yep, that all constitutes abuse, even if they're gods. Even if Hades has reasons for Being Like That. Even if you think Zagreus seems okay and unharmed by it (which: repeatedly throwing yourself into a gauntlet of violence that inevitably ends in your own pain and death because you're so desperate to escape home, not actually an indicator of someone who's okay). We all good on that?

Cool. Because I'm not really here to talk about how Hades' abuse directly impacts Zagreus right now (although there's for sure an essay in that too). I'm thinking about how it impacts everybody else.

Hades isn't as obviously unreasonable with anybody else in his kingdom the way he is with his kid. When we see him lecture somebody else, it's usually for an actual failure to do their job: Hypnos for literally falling asleep on the job and not doing anything that was assigned to him, Megaera for letting us past her so many time, Orpheus for being a court bard who refuses to sing. His attitude is super confrontational and unpleasant, but on the surface it doesn't necessarily look as fucked-up. Thing is, though, whether any individual act of aggression towards an employee/family member is justified or not (I would generally argue 'not', because aggression towards employees/family members is, y'know, not justifiable)--it's not about the individual acts. It's about the entire cultivated atmosphere of toxicity and abuse.

One of the very first things Meg ever says to us is, "I'd rather be on your bad side than his." Up until that point, we've got no reason to believe Meg has any history whatsoever of fucking up at her job. In fact, we've got plenty of reason to believe she's good at it. She's fiercely proud of it, she's frequently Employee Of The [Time Period], and we've apparently never even met her sisters because she handles her shit herself. But she's still scared of Hades. Dusa, who is an anxious wreck at all times because oh god what if she gets fired what if she gets fired what if she gets fired, in spite of apparently being absolutely exemplary at her job, is scared of Hades. Every single shade in the Hall is clearly terrified of Hades, and it's not because of what he's done to each of them. It's what they've seen him do to other people.

Which is how toxic environments work, whether they're work environments or families. The Court of Hades is of course both, always, with the bonus hell layer of you can't quit even if you DIE. An abuser in authority doesn't have to target you in order to make you feel scared, cowed, and desperate to please them. Humans (and gods who are basically extra-powerful humans) are good at learning by example. The residents of the Court get the picture.

So this Court is a minefield--and everyone except Zagreus is very good at tiptoeing around mines. We see it in Meg, so desperate to do her job well. We see that Hypnos very clearly does not give a shit about anything, but he still makes sure to have a list of excuses ready if/when Hades ever confronts him about failure to do his job, just in case. We see it when Achilles tells us that my ability to help you is constrained by the authority your father gives me, or whatever the line was sixty runs ago when he couldn't let me into locked chambers. The system, such as it is, works, and if Nyx talks to Hades as little as possible, if Thanatos avoids the Court entirely, if Achilles treads very carefully and knows how to keep his head down--well that's just the system, right? That's just how things are.

Even Zagreus seems to have had a role in that system as the court fuckup. He's the kid who didn't have a real job or purpose. He could take the focus of Hades' generalized, day-to-day ire off of everyone else, without triggering some of the more direct and violent ire because the work he was doing didn't really matter (a LOT of Hades' rage-triggers seem to be related to job performance, which means that the people with real jobs are of course the most at risk). And he could do so "safely" (big emphasis on the quotation marks there) because he alone of the court is Hades' actual kid, who's Prince of the Underworld no matter how much he fucks up. If one of Nyx's other kids gets something really really wrong, she might be able to protect them from some consequences, but Hades doesn't have any layer of supposed parental affection holding him back from getting violently furious about it. Zagreus gets a nice bedroom and the abuse is limited to words rather than divine power, and Hades is a dick to everyone but he only occasionally condemns people to eternities of torture, and only for good reasons like refusing to sing when your job is to be court bard, so it's fine, everybody's fine, everything's totally fine, right?

Except it's not fine when everybody is so clearly worried about anything going wrong. And it's especially not fine for Zagreus, who's the person to finally say no. He's leaving, for his own sake, because he deserves better and he's finally convinced he can have it. And that turns the whole system into disarray.

I am endlessly fascinated by the ways this game portrays different characters reacting to this upheaval in their carefully-mapped minefield. It's different for authority figures and peers and servants, different based on how people are positioned in the house under Hades' rule, and it's so spot-on and I love it.

Nyx, for instance, is absolutely calm about the whole thing, because Nyx has power. Hades can't hurt her. Hades can't even really do much against her children, not when Hypnos and Thanatos are gods in their own right. Yes, Hades rules the kingdom, but Nyx owns the land, and she gives no shits about his rages. And it's interesting, too, to see the lines she doesn't draw. The deal seems to be that Hades doesn't fuck with her, and doesn't outright threaten her kids (because Hypnos is bad at his job, demonstrably so, and Hades hasn't ruined him yet), and she doesn't interfere with the way he treats the people around him. She gives Zagreus advice and support and the mirror, but she also doesn't take a direct stand against Hades. He can't hurt her, but he could make life...difficult. She's protected, her position in the minefield is more of a safe viewing platform than slogging through the middle of it, but the mines are still there.

And then we have Achilles, who is one of my favorite characters in the whole game because of how he reacts to this whole situation. Achilles, like Nyx, is so supportive. Every single time you see him he has something encouraging to say. He gives us his Codex, secretly finds us weapons, trained us for years, clearly wants us to succeed. And still he's limited, not necessarily out of fear for himself (though he has to be scared for himself, he knows what Hades does to people who anger him), but out of concern that if he gives Zagreus too much help in one way, he won't be able to provide help at all later. He's still so careful.

Achilles and Nyx are so fucking important to this story because they're the only authority figures Zagreus really has in his life except for his father, and they are so supportive. They're what keep this story from being a nightmare of psychological horror and depression. They can't stop the pressure from Hades and this life in his house being miserable for Zag, but they can give us hope, remind us that Zagreus is still loved. And they have such an incredibly important role when it comes to guilt, which is one of the biggest ways toxic systems maintain themselves.

If Zagreus leaves, what happens to everybody else? Who takes Hades' wrath then? Who becomes court scapegoat if he's not there, and also, who gets punished for his escape? These questions matter, and we see him worry about it! He asks Nyx and Achilles both, is it going to be okay that you're helping me, are you going to be alright, will my father hurt you for this? And they are both so firm about telling him no. No, I will be fine. See, here's the list of reasons about why I'm going to be fine, why my position in this minefield is secure. They make a point of telling us that it's fine, that we do not need to hold ourself back from getting out of this abusive situation for their sake. That is instrumental in Zagreus's ability to keep making these escape attempts without feeling too guilty and worried and selfish to go on. (Another thing that's actually really important in setting up that dynamic--we see that Hades cares about Cerberus, even if he's using him as a pawn against us, and Cerberus seems to be the one figure in court who Hades doesn't get mad at. The dog isn't at risk, and that is really essential in keeping the story from getting too grim.) These people who we care about refuse to let themselves be held hostage to secure our good behavior.

It's also really useful for raising the stakes later in the story--we see Hades arguing with Nyx once or twice, and we see Zagreus feeling guilty about it, but it's also a sign that we're making enough progress to piss him off. After I finally made it out of Elysium on my last run, I came home to find him furious with Achilles in a way that actually makes me nervous, because Achilles does not have nearly as much security in his position as he says he does. (Achilles is such a good teacher/authority figure, because he knows goddamn well what Hades could do to him, and still refuses to let fear for his own situation stop him from helping the abused kid under his care escape his. And no, not everybody has the capacity to do that, but it matters so much coming from the guy who helped raise us. It matters so much. I do not even have the words for how much.)

It's also no mistake that many of the people we find supporting us along our journey are either the people with the most power in their immediate environment, or the least. Sisyphus helps us because what more could they do to me than this? Orpheus is a little wild around the eyes and somewhat disconnected from reality, and he wishes us the best because someone should get what they want and also he no longer gives a single fuck what happens to him. Eurydice has her own cozy little corner of Asphodel, as safe from Hades' rage as anybody anywhere in his realm because she's tucked in such an out-of-the-way middle place she's outside his notice. Dusa is so scared of everything anyway that, crush aside, she isn't any more threatened by us escaping than she is just by her everyday life here. Charon is unfathomable and unstoppable; Skelly literally exists to be a punching bag, and yet he also seems basically immune to pain, no matter what we do to him. There's no threat from Hades there.

So the people most at risk when I flip the world on its ear are the ones who have so much standing that they have something to lose, but not enough to protect them from losing it. Which of course brings us to Than and Meg--who are, of course, the two people who also seem by far the most upset by my attempts to leave.

As authority figures, Nyx and Achilles are constantly reinforcing the message that it's Hades' fault, not ours, if they or anybody else get caught in the crossfire of his wrath. I'm doing what I'm supposed to be doing, and it's not my guilt to bear. From Megaera and Thanatos, we get the opposite message--I am fucking with things, I am hurting people, and I need to stop. Zagreus isn't just abandoning them, as a friend or brother or lover or all of the above they're Greek gods who even knows. He's betraying them. They were in this together, as friends or lovers or whatever, but now Zagreus is sending earthquakes through the minefield they both still have to stand in. He is about to capsize this boat in the middle of a thunderstorm, he is fucking with the system, and they're the ones who are going to get most hurt.

I'm so curious how this is going to work for Than, who out of everyone we meet holds the closest role to Nyx's in terms of being sheltered from Hades' wrath. He's the guy who gets to leave, after all, even though he always has to come back. I've seen the least of him out of anybody so far because it took forever for me to get to Elysium, but two things really stand out and I'm so interested to see where they go. One, he really genuinely does care about Zagreus. He wants us safe, he wants us unhurt, the accessory he gives us only grants its bonus if we clear a room without taking injury, he keeps showing up to help. And two, he wants us to give up and go back and recognize how good we had it. Which is SO fucking interesting, considering how miserable Zagreus so clearly was, and how legitimate his reasons for being miserable were.

It makes me wonder so much about Than's standards for comparison. Does he know something we don't about what's waiting for us on the surface, something that might theoretically hurt Zagreus even more than staying down below? Has his life, which apparently allows him more freedom than anybody else in the Court, sucked horribly in ways we haven't seen, and that's why he spends so little time there in the first place? Either of those things is plausible, both of those things are plausible, and yet either one leads to this sense of patronizing, because he refuses to simply tell us. If something terrible is awaiting us, don't give us vague warnings, tell us what it is and let us decide for ourself! If you're fucking jealous because we might get out entirely and you're still stuck coming back here, say so. If you're worried about your mom--and he does bring her up, how could Zagreus turn his back on her like that, does seem to worry for her--then let's have an actual conversation about how many times she has insisted I do this and also how much I love her.

And, right, it's clear that a lot of Thanatos being upset is simply, you were going to leave me without even saying goodbye, you want to leave ME, which is understandable! But, like, he is demonstrably the one god who gets to visit the surface. He's the one person we actually COULD expect to see again. And he is absolutely also upset because there's an Order To Things, and we're fucking it up. We used to be his careless callow reckless friend who could talk back to Hades and get away with it, and now we're not, and everything is changing and we might leave him altogether, and we might leave him alone in that court without us, and he hates it.

Is it a short-sighted, selfish fear on his part? Yes, absolutely. Even if he's not scared of Hades on his own behalf, he is still frightened by what happens if we upset this system--and maybe it's the sanctity of a much bigger system than the Underworld that he's worried about! Maybe it's the whole divine and cosmic order. Whatever system he wants so badly to protect is enabling the abuse Zagreus has been dealing with for however-long he's been alive. Whatever system he wants so badly to protect OUGHT to be overturned, or at least shaken up. But this is what toxic systems DO. They convince the people within them that they have to be maintained, that a broken system that hurts the people within it is far better than no system at all, that changing the world is too scary and too dangerous. And Thanatos wants his whatever-Zagreus-is-to-him to be there, because he loves him and also because that's how the world works, and those things are all tangled up in one another, and that is how relationships are in a messed-up family like this so therefore I love it.

And Meg. Meg, the best for last, my dear, beautiful, furious, bitter, scared angry tired girl. I adore her. I am absolutely never going to date her, because the thing Zagreus needs most in his life hurts her, more directly than anybody else in the story, and that sucks, and it's not Zag's fault but they still shouldn't be together. Meg has taken more injury from this situation than anyone, quite literally as well as metaphorically, and it's not her fault any more than it's ours, but oh boy it has made her lash out and it's awful and it's perfect.

Meg's place in the Court of Hades is unique because she's not dead, not a mortal, not anything other than a god--but she's also not family. Nyx is not her mother. She's very much part of this system, she and her two sisters belong to Hades-the-realm and therefore also Hades-the-king, she can't leave, but she also doesn't have that protection of Nyx watching out for her in the same way. She's not royalty. She and her sisters (if you ask Hesiod instead of Virgil, which seems to be the interpretation the game's going with here) sprang from the blood of maimed Uranus at the same time as Aphrodite, but fuck knows Aphrodite isn't claiming them as siblings. And she can't be fired, exactly, but she sure can be demoted, and she sure can be made miserable in her job. Meg is vulnerable in a way very few people in Hades' employ are. She's a lot harder to do away with than any one random shade, but she's also a lot harder to miss blending in with a crowd.

What's more, she's the one person in this whole mess who is specifically tasked with stopping us from leaving. Hypnos isn't ordered to put us to sleep and keep us in our room. Thanatos can't be compelled or punished if he doesn't hunt us down. Achilles isn't told to lock us up and keep the keys. Meg is the one stationed at the doorway to Tartarus to keep us in. Meg is the one who gets in trouble when we leave. Meg (who Hades knows goddamn well Zagreus cares for, or cared for, who he absolutely knows we used to date) is the one who has to fight us again and again and again. And she's the one who keeps dying.

Again, it's this incredibly fucked-up guilt/hostage situation deliberately designed to keep people from fleeing abusive situations. Meg's insistence on fighting us now puts Zagreus in the position of having to hurt her himself again and again. Now suddenly we're the ones sticking a sword in our ex-girlfriend. Now suddenly someone can point to our desire to leave, to flee, to escape, and say, how selfish. How cruel. How terrible of us to want to go, when we're even willing to hurt the people we love to do it.

Except, right: Hades is the one who demands Meg stand there and stop us. Hades is the one who puts both of us in that position. Meg is also in an abusive situation, and she's willing to hurt us to protect herself. "I'd rather be on your bad side than your father's." It's easy to blame her at the start for being complicit, for being a tool of our father's abuse, for being on his side. It gets harder as the game goes on. I've killed her so many times. There's no way for her to beat me. She knows at this point that she can't beat me. She still fights, every single time, still throws herself upon that spike, not because she thinks she has any chance of stopping me but because she is so damn scared of what will happen if she doesn't try.

In fact, Meg's the one person we have actually seen face consequences for our actions so far, instead of just facing the threat of them. Her sisters are here. Her sisters, who she clearly does not want here, who are wild and violent and who she does not want in her life or anywhere near her, let alone near the job she takes so much pride in. She gets to deal with them now. (Hades doesn't have to deal with them. They're still not allowed in his court. But Meg does.) She gets stabbed, and bludgeoned, and shot, and lightning-struck, and poisoned, and every other thing we do to her. Thanatos doesn't. Nyx and Achilles and Hypnos don't. Bug Meg? Oh yes. Meg pays.

And yes, ok, she is complicit in this system. Everybody is complicit in this system. Zagreus who's trying to escape on his own behalf instead of overthrowing his father for the sake of everyone he'd otherwise be leaving behind is complicit in this system. Pointing fingers and pulling strings of who's more at fault? and who do we blame for this? is exactly how this sort of system perpetuates itself. Your sister always talked back at the dinner table and put everyone in an even worse and more violent mood. Your coworker refuses to work more than forty hours a week so now you have to take overtime to pick up their slack. You're enabling your dad by asking your sister to shut up, you're enabling your employer by working as hard as you do so you don't get fired, everyone's at fault, everyone's to blame, everyone is--

It's not everyone. It's Hades. It's Hades at the root of everything, and probably something big and institutional and fucked-up even beyond him. But even if everyone down in this Underworld does have to be trapped here forever, even if he's trapped here forever, Hades is neither challenging the system that put them here nor trying to make that fate better for anyone else stuck with him. He's just created an entire kingdom of backbiting and misery and people who can either go along with his whims or suffer the consequences.

At this point in the game, Meg is so fucking tired. Every time we run into her in the lounge, hunched over a table, the venom in her voice when she tells us "Do I look like I have anything to say to you?" is so bitter and so exhausted. There was a system, and she knew her place in the system, and it was a system divinely ordered by the gods themselves, and sure it was cruel but that's the literal will of the universe as far as she knows it. She had a role, and her role was vengeance and punishment and violence against those who'd committed the most egregious of sins in life, and there was a point to it, she was the divine deterrent to convince people not to do those things, and that was just, and that was right. The GODS THEMSELVES said so. How do you argue with that? You can't possibly argue with that!

And Zagreus is arguing with that. In trying to leave, he's questioning the unbreakable rule that nothing in the Underworld ever gets to leave it. In disobeying his father to do so, he's questioning the unbreakable rule that what the gods say is LAW. He's breaking everything.

And of course he's not trying to do any of that. He's not trying to destabilize the system at all. He's just trying to get himself out of it, to a place where he feels like he belongs and maybe a parent who's slightly nicer to him than this one. But toxic systems like this one break when the people within them have access to another option. When the kids find a way to actually leave, and not answer the phone, and not come home for holidays, and not deal with it any more. When the employees have the economic freedom to quit. When opportunities granted by education, money, social support, etc etc etc, show up and give people a choice. Even if the option is only ever for Zagreus--he's demonstrating that an option exists. Which is, of course, the one thing the system cannot ever allow.

I really like this game.

#hades game #hades spoilers #C plays stuff #driveby meta attack

[nxrthmizu]

Crash and Burn

fandom | miraculous ladybug

genre | salt, lila salt

pairing | n/a

w.c | 3.2k

author's note | hey remember that lila salt fic i promised? this isn't it but this is something i made today so yep. please accept this as an apology for yknow. me promising to write and. not doing it.

Enough was enough.

“Marinette, stop accusing Lila! She just wants to make friends!”

“Take the high road.”

“Be a good model student, Marinette.”

Enough. Was. Enough.

Marinette had the connections, the power, the choice to make Lila’s entire world crumble apart. The only thing that stood between the liar’s demise was the tiniest pinch of morality and self-restraint— And no, that self-restraint did not come in the form of Tikki. Even the kwami, who had to be an aggregation of all the good and nice things in the world, was fed up and ready to retaliate.

“What a joke.” Lila cackled, tossing a chunk of her sausage hair over her shoulder flamboyantly. The two girls were in the bathroom, with Lila smirking in front of the sink and Marinette a little distance away from her. “You can make my world crumble? What is this, a threat?”

“A promise.” Marinette corrected. “Stop telling lies. Come clean to every one. No more lying about knowing celebrities left and right, no more making excuses about not being able to take your own notes, no more making up ‘diseases’ just so your life gets a little more convenient. To be frank, I really don’t care what happens to you— But by making these empty promises to introduce my classmates to great ‘celebrities’, you’re ruining their futures. Stop.”

“And what are you going to do if I don’t?” Lila sneered, face twisted into an ugly grin. “You going to cry in front of the class? Try and convince them that I, the one they adore— That I am lying?”

“No.” Marinette’s eyes were clear when she met Lila’s. The clouds of self-doubt that used to hover over the bright, shining star inside her soul had now dissipated, letting the bluenette emit a confident, glowing appearance as she met the liar head on. “I’m just going to keep my promise.”

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

Lila headed off to a modelling shoot after school, pleased at the prospect of spending more time with Adrien. There were a couple tendrils of Marinette’s words hanging behind in her mind— Did the girl mean what she said? Did she actually… Was she actually capable of causing Lila’s downfall? … Surely not. Marinette may have once been the ‘Everyday Ladybug’, but there was no way she was that competent, there was no way the girl was capable of plotting.

The Italian hummed, brushing away thoughts of the annoying bluenette from her mind. She was going on a photoshoot— One that was going cause the rise and burst of her career, the one that was going to make her name a globally-known one. Unfortunately for Lila, her plans were going to be derailed quite soon— In fact, as soon as Gabriel Agreste’s car rolled into the parking lot of the shoot location.

“Explain this, Mlle. Rossi.” Gabriel’s nostrils flared as he pointed to the tabloid article on his tablet. The Italian girl froze, the headlines seared into her eyes, big and black and bold, shooting poison right into the core of her body, paralysing her cell by cell starting from her heart. “What is the meaning of this?”

‘Adrien Agreste Reported To Be Harassed by Fellow Model’— The image under the caption was one that was clearly taken by a hidden photographer. The picture was framed with leafy foliage, which suggested that the camera was tucked up in a tree. Despite the distance, it was quite obvious in the image that Adrien was reeling away, disgusted and uncomfortable as a faceless woman in an orange blazer, back turned to the camera— Invaded his personal space.

The subtitle was the cream on the cupcake.

‘Witnesses State Gabriel Agreste Ignorant of Workplace Harassment’.

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

As if things couldn’t quite go down a worser path, Lila returned home to a fuming mother and an unexpected visitor.

“Lila! You come here right this instant!” The diplomat demanded as soon as the front door opened, her daughter shrinking slightly at the tone and pitch that her mother was using. The last time her mother had been this angry— Well, it was when she got expelled from her last school. “I can’t believe what you’ve done! If it weren’t for your kind classmate, lord knows how long you would’ve continued with this!”

The Italian meekly followed her mother into the living room, eyes widening until they were as large as saucers, mouth agape at the last person she expected to see sitting on the couch.

Marinette smiled kindly, waving at the girl, looking every bit the part of the innocent, pure, kind child that every parent wanted to have. Before Lila could release a torrent of questions about what the hell Marinette Dupain-Cheng was doing in her living room, her mother charged on, beginning to take out her anger on her daughter while a literal angel sat on the sofa, cradling a box of pastries from her family’s bakery.

“Your friend here tells me that you’ve been taking absences from school to go on trips to help humanity!” Mme. Rossi exploded, waving her arms around madly. “She says she’s here to share her notes from the classes you’ve missed! You’ve never left Paris this year! What’s this I hear about flying off to the kingdom of— What was it called again, Marinette dear?”

“Achu.” Provided the bluenette helpfully, the diplomat’s expression instantly softening when she talked to the other teen in the living room.

“Ah, yes. Thank you, dear.” The woman turned back to her daughter, instantly snapping on a mask of anger in a matter of a fraction of a second. “What’s this about flying off to this kingdom of Achu to help homeless orphans with some random prince?”

“Um…” Lila piped up, wriggling as her brain churned at 200 lies per hour, trying to whip up a cover of some sort.

“I’m not done! Your friend here is such a helpful child that she even went as far as to ask her family doctor is there’s a cure for your… Lying disease!” Mme. Rossi practically roared, breathing flames as if she were an intimidating dragon, her daughter flinching away from the heat. “I’ve never heard of anything more ridiculous! And then there’s the fact that you lied to your classmates about having tinnitus?!”

“I actually do have tinnitus!” Lila cut in forcibly, widening her eyes to make herself look more pitiful. “I was just afraid to tell you because I didn’t want you to worry!”

“Bullshit!”

“Um… Sorry to interrupt, Mme. Rossi,” Marinette piped up, the diplomat instantly cooling down as she faced the bluenette, a soft smile tracing the Italian woman’s lips. “But it’s getting rather late and my parents would love me home soon. I also have some tests to revise for tonight, so I think I should get going.”

“Oh, of course, dear.” Mme. Rossi hastily got up to help the bluenette to the door, shooting a warning glare at her daughter— ‘Sit still and don’t you dare go anywhere’, the glare read. “Feel free to come over again anytime you want, dear. I’m not home often, but you are such a sweet child. I’m sure Lila could learn a lot from you.”

“Thanks for having me as well, Mme. Rossi. I really like your home. I left the pastries on the counter— Make sure to warm the curry puffs before you eat them.” Marinette returned the smile, bowing slightly to the older woman as a sign of respect.

“Thank you for the pastries as well, Marinette. I ought to visit your parents’ bakery sometime when I’m free.” Mme. Rossi opened the door kindly for the bluenette, waving the girl off with an affectionate smile. Her parents must be so lucky to have such a sweet little thing like her, Mme. Rossi sighed internally, turning the key so she locked the door. And she seems to be a high-scoring student as well.

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

Lila seethed, having been grounded by her mother. As far as Mme. Rossi was concerned, there was a boarding school not too far away from their current residence, and by the next week, the Italian girl would be transferred over. Lila had never hated Dupain-Cheng as much as she did in that moment.

Still furious, the Italian snapped her laptop open, too angry to bother with the fact she might’ve scratched the surface. Clicking into the web browser, she started to type in the words ‘Ladyblog’— That was, before a news article caught her eye.

‘Jagged Stone Interview Reveals Underage, Obsessed Fan’.

What on Earth…

As soon as Lila clicked into the link, the news footage from the interview immediately begin to play. The date stamp on it showed that it had aired last night— Which meant that she would’ve missed it, since her mother was too busy yelling at her to turn on the television to watch Nadja Chamack’s daily news.

“As soon as I heard this rumour about some underage teenage girl claiming that she had saved my cat on an airport runway, I called Penny and asked her to book a slot for me to clarify this,” Jagged Stone said grimly, dressed in more formal attire as he sat in the comfortable, cushioned chair of the news station, with Nadja nodding equally seriously beside him. “Let me clarify— I’ve never owned a cat. I’m allergic to fur. The only pet I’ve had was Fang, and he’s an al-li-ga-tor. Not a cat. Whatever the girl is claiming, she’s obsessed and making up stories.”

“It’s also kind of bewildering that she saved it on an airport runway,” Nadja continued, shaking her head in disappointment. “That kind of thing only happens in dramas— It’s too dangerous for anyone besides authorised workers to be on airport runways.”

“Right, right!” Jagged agreed instantly. “The whole rumour is just really baffling.”

“M. Jagged, may I ask what kind of effect these rumours have on a celebrities’ career?” Nadja continued, leading the conversation on like a professional.

“Well, rumours that circulate around tend to have really bad effects, and the worse ones can hang around for a long, long time. Tabloids are often spun off from rumours, baseless and with no evidence. Those tabloids will never truly disappear, so they can leave a mark on a celebrity’s reputation as some people will believe anything— Even things they read from un-cited tabloids.”

“That is simply terrible. Have you ever had any cases of rumours created by underaged teens before this?”

“I’ve had quite a number, but none of them really got as big as this one. From what Penny has found from digging around, the teen girl managed to spread the rumour through her school and onto a once-popular blog.” Jagged explained. “Penny has also found out that the same girl has claimed that I’ve written songs for her to thank her for saving my cat! I would never write songs and dedicate them to an underaged girl— Trust me. If I could do such a thing, I’d already have written a dozen in honour of my niece— She’s my favourite designer.”

Nadja smiled at that sentence. “Then—“

The news footage cut off abruptly as Lila slammed her laptop shut, too upset to continue watching.

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

On the other side of Paris, Alya was pacing around her room frantically, wondering why on earth Lila wasn’t picking up on her calls. She’d left at least four dozen messages to the Italian, who was absent from school that day. There had been a couple whispers here and there about why she was missing— Rose had suggested another impromptu trip to Achu.

Lila’s absence wasn’t the weirdest part of the day, however.

That award would go to Marinette, who walked into class with a smile, the slightest sprinkles of delight colouring her bluebell eyes when she spotted Lila’s empty seat.

Growing in frustration, Alya threw herself onto her bed, phone clattering onto the mattress with her. Within the next few minutes, however, her phone suddenly started exploding with notifications. Excited at the prospect of Lila finally texting back, Alya turned on her phone, only to be disappointed by the notifications all clamouring from the class group chat.

Kim had sent a link to the chat— Without hesitation, Alya clicked into it, frowning when she saw Nadja and Jagged appear on the screen. Throughout the interview, the colour on the Ladyblogger’s face only paled by the second until she was as white as a sheet, and if it were halloween at that time, she would’ve won the best costume award for being a ghost.

There must… There must’ve been a mistake.

A notification from Lila’s number made the blogger perk up, instantly clicking into the conversation— But her newfound hope didn’t last very long.

[Lila]

Hi, Alya. This is Lila’s mom. She’s currently grounded right now. Is there anything important you need to tell her?

[Alya]

Oh, nothing much… I just wanted to ask where she was.

[Lila]

She’s at home.

[Alya]

Okay, thanks.

Flopping onto her bed, Alya begin thinking, revising over the past few months like it was an old clip. Lila’s exciting adventures and interactions with celebrities of every kind— Lila going overseas and face timing the entire class— Lila letting her in on the secrets of being Ladybug’s friend…

… Marinette trying to tell them that Lila was lying…

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

The class was awfully silent the next day. Adrien was absent as well— A social worker was looking into his home life as a result of the tabloid that arose. Things for the blonde could either get better or worse from then on, as the matters were still foggy and things hadn’t cleared up yet. The blonde maintained contact with his friends, however, calling and texting them whenever he could.

“Class, settle down.” Mlle. Bustier stepped into the class, looking very tense and uncomfortable. “Today, we will have a guest, so please be on your best behaviours, alright?”

Just as the teacher finished speaking, a tall, regal-looking Italian woman entered the classroom, a cowering principal and a meek-looking Lila in tow. The class brightened slightly at the sight of their friend— But by the way she wasn’t looking into their eyes… Things weren’t going to be good.

“Good morning. I am Mme. Rossi, Lila’s mother.” The woman begin speaking, her firm and no-nonsense tone instantly making every student sit straight, their eyes too afraid to look anywhere else but the Italian diplomat. “It has come to my attention that my daughter has been taking absences from school to do charity work— And I have to clarify that this is a lie. Lila has been doing nothing but holing herself up in her room, lying to me and saying that there are no classes due to akumas.” The Italian diplomat glowered at Damocles. “What’s even more baffling is the fact that neither her homeroom nor the principal bothered to check up with me despite a student having extended periods of absence with no note or email written whatsoever.”

The class was so quiet that they could hear the quiver of Mlle. Bustier’s trembling lip.

“In addition, I’ve been kindly told that Lila has claimed to have a lying disease, which is the most ridiculous thing I’ve heard this week.” It was impossible to miss the way the Italian diplomat was glaring daggers at both Mlle. Bustier and Damocles. “No one bothered to look it up online to see if it’s actual disorder, nor did anyone call me to confirm and ask for a doctor’s note, which is standard procedure.” Chills burst over the room, making every one shiver as the woman hissed out her words.

“Mme. Rossi, we didn’t want to disturb your busy schedule—” Damocles begin, only to be blown backwards from the sheer intensity of Mme. Rossi’s glower.

“M. Damocles, standard procedures exist for a reason. Unless you’d like to tell me about any other things you’ve been letting my daughter get away with?”

“N— No, Mme.”

The Italian diplomat continued on her war path. “My daughter also claimed to have tinnitus, am I correct?”

“Y— Yes, Mme.” Mlle. Bustier answered when it seemed like no one was going to.

“And I heard that the class seating arrangement was shifted to accommodate for that?” The homeroom teacher didn’t dare answer this time, for it seemed like whatever she said would be the incorrect answer. “And apparently, my daughter has also been faking broken wrists and requesting for her classmates to complete her work for her.” Mme. Rossi was practically breathing flames at that point, “And I am incredibly upset at the lack of action from the homeroom teacher.”

No one could breath.

“I have many concerns about the running of this schooling facility, and I expect to discuss this with M. Damocles privately after this. However, there is still something to be done.” Mme. Rossi swept her gaze towards her daughter, who found the floor incredibly interesting at that point of time. “Lila? Something you’d like to say to your classmates?”

“… I’m sorry for lying to you.” Lila mumbled resentfully.

“Louder, Lila. No one can hear you.”

“I’m sorry for lying to you!” Lila swallowed, bursting like an explosion that had finally been triggered, tears in her eyes and fists hatefully curled. “I’m sorry for lying about my diseases and injuries. I’m sorry for making you do my work,” She spat. “Sorry for causing any inconveniences.”

Mme. Rossi raised an eyebrow at her daughter. “Is that all?”

Lila glared at her mother, who was completely unfazed. “Oh, so you want an apology from me? Fine!” She turned to the class, a maniacal glint in her eyes as she sneered at the class, a few gasps puffing from around the room as they caught their first glimpse of the liar that resided in the ‘harmless’ shell of Lila Rossi. “I’m sorry that you are all such idiots that you all fell for everything. I’m sorry that Marinette has such terrible, untrusting classmates that turned their backs on her even though she was still a goody-two shoes till the end, even though she still wanted to help you sorry peasants. I’m sorry that you were all so goddamn gullible! There! Good enough for you?”

Shock was etched into the faces of every human in the classroom— Including Mlle. Bustier, M. Damocles, and Mme. Rossi themselves. Clearly, that part of the apology had not been part of the plan.

“Did I miss something?” Said a sweet voice, followed by the presence of a bluenette, her hair tied in a half-up. A royal blue blazer decorated her lithe form, accompanied by a smart-looking white blouse and a black plaited skirt. Formal had never looked so good on anyone— And if someone didn't know better, they'd think that the bluenette was a young lawyer, emerging victorious from her first successful case.

“Marinette!” Alya exclaimed.

“I’m sorry that you’re such an annoying, little, pest.” Lila bit in the girl’s face, disdain colouring her features as she ignored her mother’s enraged gasp behind her.

The bluenette simply smiled, unaffected by the liar who had crashed and burned like the liar once wished upon her. Marinette Dupain-Cheng stood at her full height, the perfect image of grace and poise as she maintained her composure, quite unlike her nemesis, who thrashed under her mother’s restraining hands.

“And I’m sorry that you didn’t take my promise to heart.”

this can count as adrien redemption depending on you cause ehhh i dont like how passive he is but i havent caught up with the recent episodes, he might have become better. idk.

also where the hell is my miraculous taglist i cant find it so eep. no tagging ppl ig oops

#miraculous ladybug #the tales of ladybug and chat noir #marinette dupain-cheng #lila rossi #lila salt #rossi salt #ml class #ml salt #ml class salt #marinette deserves better #badass marinette #lila rossi lies #lila's lies are exposed #adrien agrete #alya cesaire #cady writesss «

[theonewiththefanfics]

Tomato - Tomato (one-shot)

Synopsis: One is an international rock-star. The other is his loyal assistant. Both are complete morons in love. Also - she’s allergic to tomatoes, and it is important.

This started off as something completely else. hope you enjoy :D

Pairing: Harry Styles x fem!Assistant!Reader

Genre: fluff, minor angst

Warnings: two idiots pining for one another, swearing, mentions of allergies and EpiPens

Word count: 3492

Being an assistant to someone famous wasn’t all glamourous parties and wild nights out with celebrities. It was scheduling last minute flights and not sleeping for three days straight as you packed a million bags and then repacked because their stylist sent you knew pieces and the old ones no longer fit the aesthetic of the week.           It was also making sure that they were up by six AM with a hot coffee at their bedside ready to help them wake up as you lay out a detailed plan of the day down to the minute, while you yourself basically only had a two-hour nap because you had to finish off 568 handwritten notes to be sent out to each of the contacts in their phone. Or at least that’s what Y/N’s life was like being the personal assistant to none other than the modern-day prince of rock Harry Styles.            Said rockstar was actually still asleep when Y/N entered his room, ripping open the curtains and letting in the rising sun. He groaned, pulling up the bedsheets that’d ridden down his form during the night. “Not that I don’t like seeing your gorgeous face in the mornings….” he mumbled into the covers. “But I don’t like seeing your face in the mornings when they start at six bloody AM.”           Y/N snorted and rolled her eyes, rubbing them in an attempt to get rid of the sleep that still lingered in her own body. “You were the one that said you’re fine with seeing Lambert at eight for a fitting.”           “When did I say that?” Harry scoffed, only the top of his messy bedhead seen from the cocoon he’d built around himself.           “Would you like me to pull up the text messages, the calendar or the e-mails?”           Even with her back turned as she rummaged through his closet for him to put on some clothes, she could sense the middle finger he threw at her, and she smiled.           Despite everything, despite the zero sleep and stress always coursing through her veins, Y/N loved working for him. He treated her as a friend, not just some lackey he paid to, but most importantly, comparatively to the other people she’d worked for in the same line of business – he treated her as a human.           If something went over the deadline, Harry didn’t scream or yell at her and tell Y/N how incompetent she was, instead he asked what kind of help or assistance she needed to get the job done, or maybe if she just needed some time off to gather herself and look at the problem with fresh eyes.           “I hate how organised you are,” Harry groaned, finally throwing the covers off.           “If I wasn’t, you’d be in a ditch somewhere.”           She heard him scoff and two feet plop against the hardwood floor as he made his way towards her. “Is that how little faith you have in me?”           “You don’t even know what day it is!”           “Who does in these times?”           Y/N shrugged her shoulders and handed him a pair of boxers, some loose jeans, and a flowery Hawaiian shirt. “Are you telling me I’m wrong though?”           She looked over to her side, a smirk playing on her lips while he squinted his green eyes at her. “No, but it doesn’t mean I like getting called out, especially this early in the morning.”

          With a roll of her eyes and a shove at his shoulder for him to move to the bathroom, Y/N handed him the clothes, moving downstairs to start making him some light breakfast and get herself a cold glass of water.           You see, she’d been working as his assistant for close to two years, and they’d grown not only as people around one another, challenging their beliefs and world views, but as friends too. And, well, Y/N would be lying if the emotions hadn’t evolved from platonic to falling in love. Not that she’d ever admit it. He was an international sensation, and she was the girl who got him vegetarian croissants at the airport.           She dragged a hand down her face as she clicked the stove on and took out a carton of eggs from the fridge. Y/N knew how he liked his omelette to the T, mostly because when she’d spent the first night of quarantine with him a year prior right as the pandemic had started, Harry had wanted to do something nice because she couldn’t go and see her family any more, so he’d gotten up at seven to make breakfast for both of them. The only problem was, he hadn’t asked if she had any allergies, so as he added bits of tomatoes, parsley, cheese and scallions, Harry hadn’t expected Y/N’s eyes to go wide at the first bite as she dropped the fork.           “Harry…” Her tone had been cautious. “What’s in this?”           He was sweating. Was his cooking really that bad? He just wanted to do something nice and there he was screwing everything up. “ ‘S just some of my favourite things. I’m sorry I didn’t ask, I just thought you’d like it.”            “I do, but this tastes like it has tomatoes in it.”           He nodded. “Yeah. It does.”           Gently she smiled at him and pushed the plate a bit further away. “Could you grab me a coat, and if you have any – an EpiPen?”           “An Epi – oh shit!” When the realisation hit him, Harry was jumping out of his seat, running to one of the cupboards and rummaging through in a panic all the while apologies flew non-stop from his mouth.           Y/N in the meantime had gathered her purse and mask, making a call to the nearest hospital to explain the situation to which they responded they’d be waiting for her arrival.           “I’m so sorry!” Harry ran up to her, a first-aid kit in his shaking hands. “Please don’t die! I didn’t want to kill you, I promise! I just wanted to make you some breakfast cause you do so much for me, and now you’re stuck here, and – oh god,” he cried. “I’m going to be prosecuted for killing my assistant.”           She didn’t mean to, but the snort came out of her nose either way. “Harry.” She put a hand on his shoulder. “Please calm down. I’m not going to die.”           “You’re allergic!”           “Yes, I am, but I only had a small bite. The ER is just a precaution.” Y/N took his palms in hers and squeezed them. “Now take a deep breath with me…” They did so, holding it for five seconds and letting it out for eight. “And calm down a bit. I’ll go give myself the shot, and then I’ll drive to the hospital.”           “Let me,” Harry begged. “Please, let me at least drive you to the emergency room. God, I almost killed you with an omelette, it’s the least I can do. I – I could also help you with the shot, I won’t hit an artery, I promise -”           “Harry, you’re barely coherent. Not to say anything, but you’d have a bigger chance of killing me in a car crash, than from that tomato.” Y/N gave him a smile. “I’m gonna be fine.”           With that, she left him to venture into the bathroom and did the unpleasant part of stabbing herself in the thigh to alleviate her body from the allergy symptoms. She sat there for around five minutes before she felt that the swelling of her tongue and itching in her throat was starting to subside, which meant the epinephrine was working.           “Okay,” she huffed, taking her purse from the couch where Harry had been sitting, hugging the accessory. “I’ll be back in probably around two hours. Do we need anything from the store?”           He shook his head. “Just come back home, please.”           Y/N would never admit how her heart thundered in her chest when Harry said to come back ‘home’. “I will.” She promised. “Don’t you worry. You’re not getting rid of me that easy, Styles. The money’s too good.” She winked at him and then left Harry pouting on the couch, but she couldn’t get through the door, before he jumped up, yelling, “wait! Do I need to get rid of every tomato in the house?”         �� “No,” she laughed. “I’m good to be around them. Even touch them. ‘S just my insides that don’t agree with it when they meet.”           “Okay.” He nodded, hands on his hips. “Alright. I’ll uh – I’ll be waiting. I’ll make you something else.”           “There’s no need for that, Harry.”           His eyes widened at her words. “I swear I’m not trying to murder you!”           “Oh my god,” she muttered shaking her head. “Just – just relax. Okay. I’ll send you hourly updates.”           He bit his lip. “Make it every ten minutes.”           “Harry –,”           “Please?” The way he was giving her puppy dog eyes melted her heart.           With an eye-roll, Y/N waved at him and promised to update her boss at every possible moment and confirm that he hadn’t, in fact, been the reason for her demise. Well, he was the reason for the demise of her low standards in men, having taken them and thrown them up to the Moon, but unless her feelings were miraculously requited or if one of the Marvel characters, she was obsessed with came to life, she’d have to stick to what was available. And in her mind, that wasn’t Harry.           “What are you thinking about?” His voice startled Y/N out of the memory, and she shook her head, adding salt and pepper to the beaten eggs.           She shrugged. “Just about that time a year ago where you secretly tried to off me because you were too nice to say you didn’t wanna quarantine together.”           The groan he let out was of royal embarrassment, and it put a wide smile on her face, as she took one of the forsaken fruits and started to chop the red ball into small pieces.           “You’ll never let me live it down, are you?”           Y/N raised her eyebrow at him. “Your failed murder attempt?” She snorted. “Of course not! It’s like you don’t watch the crime shows and murder documentaries when I have them on. You really haven’t learned anything.”           Harry stuck his tongue out at her and moved to her side, dropping some chives into the mix as well. “Well given how it wasn’t a murder attempt, I wouldn’t consider it a fail.”           Her hip bumped his, and only then did Y/N really give him a once-over. As always, he looked amazing in whatever was on his body, but what made him even cuter in her eyes was the sleepiness still lingering in him.           Harry’s movements were a little bit sluggish, eyes half-closed and small sighs passing his lips as he sipped onto the coffee she’d come to his place with. The shirt sat loosely on his body, the first two buttons left open while he’d tucked the bottom of it into the jeans, having found a Gucci belt and cinched it around his waist, giving it a more eighties look rather than the sixties vibe he usually had with his suits.           The brown hair was still messy and dishevelled, and Y/N could barely, just barely restrain herself from running her fingers through it, but what she didn’t know Harry was struggling just as much.           All he wanted to do was pull out the bottom lip Y/N had gotten in between her teeth and kiss her senseless, to have her fingers dig into his arms and leave crescent shaped imprints on his skin.           “So, uh…” He had to start a conversation otherwise his mouth would find itself on Y/N’s mouth in a second. “What’s Lambert got in his schedule? How many outfits is he thinking?”           “Two or three, I think,” she said, pouring the mixture on the pan and letting the slow sizzle erupt around them. “He’s got this one suit which I think you’ll really like – all leather, but it needs to be altered.”           Harry hummed, and for a second both of them relished in the domestic feel of it all. They’d had many moments like it before, especially during the spring and summer seasons of 2020, and Y/N couldn’t help but relish in her memories at them.           “Harry?” It was like her voice snapped him out from a trance. “Could you pass me a plate please?’           “Uh, yeah,” he stammered for a moment and then nodded, wordlessly going to a cupboard and taking out a white marbled plate. That single piece of kitchenware probably cost more than her life insurance, but it was definitely aesthetic if nothing else.           Silently Y/N plopped the omelette onto the plate, placing it on the kitchen counter and went to get him a fork, however when she turned around, he was facing her, chewing quite agressively on the inside of his cheek.           “You okay?” she asked, coming closer. “I can call Lambert, reschedule it for later. He wouldn’t be too happy about having to wake up and then – “           But Harry shook his head. “It’s not that.”           “Then what?”           He didn’t say anything. It was like he was trying to decipher the best course of action, and when he ultimately did, Y/N was pressed up against the counter, Harry’s forehead against hers with two ring-clad hands cupping her cheeks.           “Harry,” she breathed, out her lips brushing his making the air in her lungs hitch. “What are you doing?”           “Something I’ve been dying to do for a year now. If you let me that is.”           “I -,” The words were muddled up in her head. Of course, Y/N wanted him to kiss her, she wanted him to ravish every part of her body. The fantasies and dreams she’d had at night would be incriminating proof if her feelings were on trial, but despite it all, her brain was usually in charge and would overrule any decision made by her heart. “Harry, we can’t.” She whispered, voice breaking.           “I -,” Horror morphed onto his features as he took a step back. “Did I misread the signals? Did I do something you don’t wan –“           “No.” She grabbed onto his cheeks, trying to calm him down, his body practically melting into hers. “I do.” She didn’t need to explain what she meant. He understood. “So much it hurts me sometimes… but Harry, you’re my boss. My employer. It… it wouldn’t be right.”           “Why? How can it not be right, when it feels like the rightest thing in the world?”           “Because, Harry,” she huffed. “You’re my boss. And what’s worse – I love working for you!”           That made both of them laugh, the tone of her voice as if she was more annoyed than anything else. “ ‘Nd why’s that bad?” He nudged her nose with his. “I’d hope my employees like working with me. What kind of a person would I be if I thrived on them being miserable?”           “Because if I didn’t, quitting would be easy.” She raised her eyebrow at him. “And if I quit there’d be nothing stopping us from dating.”           Harry bit his lip, finger trailing along her cheekbone. “There’s nothing stopping us now either. There is no clause in your contract that says you can’t date people who you work for or with. Sarah’s with Mitch, and they’re the happiest they’ve ever been. They’re even having a baby…”           Y/N gave him a sympathetic smile. “I know. But that’s different. They’re on equal levels. You and I, however… I don’t want people to think I got my job because I slept with you, or some shit. It’s bad enough some already do so.”           His brows furrowed, and Y/N saw how his jaw clenched. “Who?”           “Strangers.” She shrugged. “I know you don’t look at comments like that online, but I see them. My DMs are filled with that. Gossip magazines. The point is – there are already unsubstantiated rumours about us. This would give them the confirmation they’d need.”           “How can it confirm something that’s not true?”           “There are still people who believe vaccines cause autism. Even when their ‘proof’ has been discredited and shown to be just complete bullshit, most don’t like to admit they’re wrong, so they’ll look for whatever tells them they’re right.”           Harry huffed throwing his head back to look at the ceiling. “So, where does that leave us? In love, but without being able to do anything about it? Because I can’t.” He shook his head. “I won’t be able to just pass you by without kissing you, or not pull you into the bed when you wake me up, or press you against the wall and not have my head between these two gorgeous legs.”           Y/N groaned slapping his chest and dropping her forehead against his peck. “That is so unfair. Why do you have to tease me like that!”           “Oh, sweetheart.” The rumble was deep and shot a wave of heat straight to her core. “This is no teasing.” The smirk on his face when she looked up at him was shit-eating. “Trust me, if I was teasing, you’d be begging for me.”           She’d imagined him between her thighs more times than it was appropriate considering he was her boss, but hot damn, did it feel amazing when his lips crashed onto hers, and she let him. In her dreams, his lips hadn’t been just pressed to her mouth but other places which were more south, but it was still one of the best feelings in the world.           The kiss left them both breathless, and grinning and satisfied, yet begging for more, teeth nipping at the soft flesh.           “I’ll put out an official statement, if you want,” Harry muttered against her mouth, unable to stop pecking her lips now that’d he’d gotten a taste. “But please, please, please… for both our sanities go out on a date with me.”           It seemed like Y/N was the one contemplating the best plan of action now when her brows furrowed and she looked up at him, pressing and unpressing her lips, as the swelling from the kiss grew. “Did you by any chance have a piece of that omelette already?” She had a suspicion it wasn’t just from the kiss.           His eyes widened, and then his head dropped to her shoulder. “Not again!”           Y/N rolled her eyes lifting his face by the chin so he would look at her. “How about EpiPen first?”           “Fair enough,” Harry grumbled unlatching himself from her and going for his keys and wallet, already preparing for the short drive they’d have to take. “But then a date?”           She raised her eyebrow, taking out the box Harry now kept under the sink with at least three EpiPen’s for emergencies. “In a hospital?”           “We could be going dumpster diving for all I care, and I’d count it as a date.”           Y/N rolled her eyes. “You’ll have to do so much better than that; you’ve almost put me in anaphylactic shock twice. Now come on.” She motioned with her head towards the bathroom. “Stab me and take me to the ER.”           “Fucking tomatoes,” Harry grumbled, taking her by the hand and not letting it go even for the short walk.           “Tomato-tomato, you’re the one that kissed me.”           “That I don’t regret.”           Y/N smiled, turning towards him, and taking him by the nape of his neck pulled Harry down for one more kiss, groaning at the feeling of his tongue dancing against hers.           “Y/N!” He pulled back with a gasp, shock on his face.           She just shrugged her shoulders. “We’re already going to see the doctors anyway.”           Harry pushed her shoulder and made her sit down onto the toilet. “Take your pants off before my kisses kill you.”           “Yes, daddy.” Y/N wiggled her eyebrows as Harry moaned, squeezing her calf.            His eyes were dark as he looked up at her. “Next time this happens, you’ll be begging me.”           Her wicked smile was so full of happiness he couldn’t help the one that grew on his face. “I’ll be keeping you to it. Now, dear sir.” She handed him the EpiPen. “Hit me with your best shot.”           And although it’d been now two times in their lives where Harry trying to do something good and make the other feel just as good had done pretty much the opposite, when they got to the emergency room, their smiles could be felt even under their masks           Harry watched with blushing cheeks as Y/N explained the situation to the nurse, especially when one of them threw him an unsavoury glance, eyebrow raised high as if saying ‘again? One time wasn’t enough?’.           “No more tomatoes.” He promised. “And also - it wasn’t on purpose!”           Y/N squeezed his palm, chuckling. She may not be able to give a shot at eating a tomato, but she sure as hell was going to give Harry one. After all, she had almost died for the man. Twice.

Tags (crossed out wouldn’t take):

Harry Styles tags: @breezykpop​ @girlboss99​ @harrystylesdoesntknowiexist​ @alliyjane​ @sirtommyholland​ @raylovessarcasm @just-here-to-escape-from-reality @harryhub​

Everything tags: @lumelgy @palaiasaurus64 @supernaturalbaesduh @breezy1415 @crazy--me @thatawkwardlittlefangirl @sea040561 @staryeyedgirl @deathbyarabbit @s-c-a-r-e-d-po-t-t-e-r @reblogger-not-a-blogger @m-a-t-91 @dalilx @i-need-a-hero-i-need-a-loki @maladaptive-ninja-returns @averyrogers83 @in-the-end-im-still-trash @gallifreyansass @dewy-biitch @avxgers @unlikelygalaxygiver @magicwithaknife​ @ollyoxenfrees​ @bnhvrdy​ @tvwhoresblog @celebsimagines @thatkindofgurl​ @sj-thefan​ @teenwolflover28 @lestersglitterglue​ @im-squished​

A/N: I’m at work and I wanted to write a bit for my book, but hahahahahahaha I can’t stop procrastinating. Also, this was something comepletely else centered around Christmas, then New Year and the Valentines, but I just couldn’t and it morphed into this. Maybe this Holiday season when it rolls around I’ll post it :D

P.S. if anyone’s had a septoplasty (repositioning of the septum) - how was it? how painful is it? kinda starting my journey towards it cause apparently I can’t breathe out of my left nostril, but I’m kinda scared ngl. I’ve read some horror stories about having holes and pieces of the cartilage fall out afterwards :/// 

P.S.S. what did ya think? my tags are always open, just drop a message if you wanna be added :)

P.S.S.S please don’t plagiarise or repost my work on other platforms (wattpad, AO3 etc)

#Harry Styles #harry styles fanfiction #harry styles smut #harry styles imagine #harry styles fanfic #harry styles x you #harry styles x reader #harry styles x y/n #harry styles x fem!reader #harry styles x reader smut #harry styles x assistant!reader #harry styles au #fanfic #fanfics #one direction #one direction imagine #1d fan fiction #1d

[x-infernhoes-x]

She’s My Collar- Basilio x Reader

Title: She’s My Collar

Genre: Romance, Smut, Porn with Plot

Warning(s): Mentions of Semi-Public Sex, Car Sex, Mentions of Alcohol, Implied Consent, Basilio nearly murdering someone because they spoke badly about you

Description: KAI IF YOU’RE READING THIS, THIS ONE’S FOR YOU AND ALL OF YOU BASILIO SIMPS 

NOTE SOMETIME AROUND 3:00 AM YESTERDAY NAWALA YUNG ORIGINAL PUTANG INA I WAS THIS CLOSE ON FINISHING IT SHDJGFHJBDKJBSEDVGSJHGBKHGSFKJBGBKJGBJGLJBGWL  AN HOUR’S WORTH OF WRITING G O N E AND I HAD TO REWRITE EVERYTHING I AM STRESSED AND DSBJKGBKJFSDGNB SO ENJOY.

4:31 AM NOTE UPDATE YESTERDAY: langya ayoko na. matutulog na nga ako, sakit na ng likod ko.

6:50 PM NOTE TODAY: I’M GOING TO FINISH THIS BEFORE MIDNIGHT COMES. ALSO, DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE KIDS!!

12:10 AM NOTE TODAY: The note above this one is a lie. I managed to continue this after family night lmao but enjoy still. Tried my best to make it gender-neutral as possible but yeah :’) I kinda failed successfully I think???

  You and Basilio have been dating for quite some time now. Although he was a messy guy you made sure that you had his back and helped him out to work on how to keep his sloppy tendencies at bay and in turn he would shower you with love and affection that you would usually get from the demi-god of war. Basilio was the perfect guy, he was a sweet lad who made your lonely days better, he made sure that you were cared for in any shape or form and he always had your back in everything and he would give you anything you would ask for in the world. The two of you barely even fought and if you were to fight, it would be more of a joke one than an all-out screaming match. He was the best thing that has ever happened to you and you constantly thank Bathala for it and Basilio thought the same. The two of you were a match made in heaven.

 Although despite your busy schedules keeping the two of you apart, you both made sure that you and your loving boyfriend would get the chance to hang out together. Often, you and Basilio would frequent the Diabolical together, just basking in each other's presence, tucked away in some booth Hank had reserved for the two of you, or sitting by the bar just chatting about each other’s day. You could recall Hank telling you that whenever you were around or that when someone ever mentions your name, Basilio seemed to calm down and would eagerly listen into whatever conversation had said your name. There was a time where Basilio nearly knocked someone’s teeth out because they were talking badly of you and it took Crispin, Maliksi, Hannah, Amie, Alex, and Hank himself to hold back the younger twin and prevent him from punching someone’s lights or teeth out or even prevent a murder from ever happening.

 “Alam mo, (Y/N) pag naririnig ni Basilio na dadaan ka rito, parang siyang aso na di mapakali. Kulang nalang na magkaroon siya ng buntot e.” Hank joked as he was cleaning the freshly washed glass, watching Basilio flush red, face buried into his forearm as he groaned in response while you let out a small chuckle.

 Now looking back, that memory seemed to be far away from you. Tonight happened to be your anniversary with Basilio and instead of a cozy night in, he wanted to do something different.  Basilio wanted to take you out dancing and bar hopping around Bonifacio Global City’s luxurious bars (sometimes you wondered to yourself how the hell can Basilio afford this.) and maybe take you sight seeing around the place when you got the time. Pacing around your living room in your apartment, you were about to shoot him a text message when a knock at your door had interrupted you from doing so, nearly dropping your phone in the process. “Sandali  lang!” you yelled to whoever was outside the door. If there was one thing you learned from dating Basilio, it was being vigilant. You had to make sure that the person on the other side of your door was your boyfriend and not some kind of Aswang or any malicious person who had a personal grudge against the twins and Alex. Taking a peek at the pee hole your door had, you were greeted by the sight of your boyfriend, Basilio grinning up at you as he waved. Instead of wearing his suit, Basilio was in his casual clothing for tonight, his long silken locks pulled back in a half-up, half-down man-bun.

 Opening the door, you then welcomed him with open arms before proceeding to smack him playfully on his arm, an amused smirk on your lips as you opened your mouth to speak, your tone light and teasing, “Took you long enough! Siguro na-traffic ka no?” Basilio could only roll his dark eyes at you as he placed a loving kiss upon your head. “Hindi a, si Kuya Crispin kasi e, sobrang tagal niya sa banyo kaya ayun.” Pulling himself away from you, he then offered his arm for you to take with a grin, his head tilting towards the direction of the door as he spoke, “So ano? Tara na?” “Siyempre naman.”  

 After making sure your apartment was locked, the two of you went down towards the direction of the parking lot and took a couple few selfies inside the elevator, you and Basilio were off. While in the car, the both of you would scream along to the lyrics of Ang Huling El Bimbo by Eraserheads while in traffic. On your way to BGC, both of you were surprised to see Maliksi and his significant by the stoplight, taking the advantage of the long-ass stop to chat with the Prince of the Tikbalangs and his fiancé. Your conversation was cut short when the stoplight had changed from red to green, saying your goodbyes to each other as Basilio drove away to your very first destination, which was none other than XYLO at The Palace.

  In all honesty, you’ve heard about this bar but it was the first time you got to enter the place itself. The both of you got lucky that the place wasn’t as packed and that you got there early before the actual party had started. Both you and Basilio then made your way over to the bar to grab your first drinks of the night. The two of you chatted for a while, occasionally nodding your heads to the beat of the song. After a while, the night seemed to kick in and both of you were already at what seemed to be your 3rd or 4th bar of the night, this time you and Basilio were jumping up and down to DJ Khalid’s song ‘All I Do Is Win’ before the both of you screamed along with the rest of the patrons, “Putang Ina, Alak Pa!”  and time seemed to flow faster than ever as you and your loving boyfriend went in and about around BGC’s classiest bars, downing every single drink you two could manage and take or even dance along to the songs the bars provided while occasionally sharing a kiss here and there, not minding the reek of alcohol and sweat clinging on each other’s bodies as the two of you laughed.

 Sometime around 10:30, you and Basilio were shitfaced to oblivion but both of you were used to it. You had lost count on how many drinks you’ve managed to down yet you and Basilio couldn’t care less, you were certain that you heard your phones ring but you two never got the chance to answer them because Basilio was busy doing body shots on you or you making out with your boyfriend in some hidden corner of the bar. You were starting to get the hint that after your little make-out session at Club Haze, he was focused on one thing and you knew what that meant, despite being inebriated out of your wits. So what do you do? Put on a show for him of course.

 You knew Basilio was sitting by the bar because you told him you were going to use the bathroom to freshen up a little bit since the club felt a little bit humid. What he didn’t expect was you sashaying over to where the dance floor, the last notes of Nelly Furtado’s Maneater fading away only to be replaced by Doja Cat’s Streets. To you, the sound seemed to have slowed down and you weren’t sure because it was the alcohol’s effects taking over, nobody else in the club mattered but your boyfriend alone.  The figures around you seemed to blur and Basilio was the only one you had your eyes on as your body moved to the beat, eyes half-lidded and lips slightly parted, and even from afar, you could see your demi-god of a boyfriend shuffle in his seat, his cheeks brightly flushed even under the lights of the dark club (yes, Basilio even tried to hide his raging boner from everyone but he was failing miserably). You knew that he was watching you closely like a predator ready to strike and even from afar you can tell that he was getting impatient with your games and that made you smirk. You knew that Basilio had a thing for Semi-Public sex and your several other experiences with him were proof of that, hell the two of you almost got caught one time and you were internally thankful that you weren’t. But tonight, Basilio’s going to abide by the rules of your own game and not his.

The opening bass beat from Beyonce’s Yonce/Partition was your cue to take things up a notch by making your way over to the bar where you had stood upon the counter (you had asked the bartender and the rest of the patrons who hung around the bar save for Basilio in advance and they seemed to agree with it just as long as you were careful) and made your way down the counter, hips sashaying and your body with every beat and drop before stopping to where he was, a smirk on your face, your hands running up from your thighs and right past your chest in a sensual manner, leaning in just so you could ghost your lips over Basilio’s eagerly waiting ones before pulling away with a wink. Once your little show was done and you had gone down from your counter with the help of the bartender you had just spoken to before making your way over to the dance floor once more to dance just as your song, She’s My Collar by Gorillaz began to play only to be caught short when you felt a hand grab you by the wrist.

Despite being drunk you were still smart and quick to retaliate towards whoever had grabbed you only to be surprised to be looking right directly at your boyfriend’s dark obsidian gaze, his breath slow and ragged and you knew you were in it for real this time the moment he said, “We’re leaving.” In a tone, you’ve never heard from him before and that seemed to send shivers and chills up your spine as he dragged you away from the bar to head right outside.

Honestly, the whole trip back to the car seemed to pass you by like a blur, you would occasionally stumble on your own feet, which prompted Basilio to sling you over his shoulder like you were nothing but a sack of potatoes (at least it gave you a perfect view of his ass). The moment you arrived at your car, however, you were thrown haphazardly into the backseat after Basilio had unlocked the door with ease and then entered the vehicle as well, quickly pulling you up on his lap where he locked his lips with you in a heated kiss, hands roaming around your body with such need and you could feel his erection straining against the fabric of his dark jeans. You were surprised at first but once the initial shock and surprise had worn off, you kissed him back as well with the same passion and need that he emulated from his kiss, your fingers and hands made a quick undo of his man-bun and top, hastily unbuttoning them, eager to touch the skin underneath it and leave marks on it. Basilio could only groan in response to your touches, his tongue exploring your mouth like uncharted territory, his hands groping your behind with such force that made you moan out his name, a quiet hiss of “Tangina.” Soon followed your surprise.

 In your mayhem of desire and lust, you didn’t notice Basilio play Chase Atlantic’s song Devilish on the radio.

 Clothes were thrown around and about in the space of the car and in that blur of clothing being discarded around, you were honestly surprised when Basilio had lifted up your lower half towards him, his lips trailing kisses down your stomach and thighs before his head disappeared in between your legs, bestowing you the best oral you’ve ever had received from him in your years of dating. You couldn’t thrash around with him holding you so tightly against his face as he went down on you but your hands were free to roam and tug at his long silken locks, his name spoken like a prayer  and just as you were about to reach your peak, he had pulled away from you, a sadistic yet innocent smirk placed upon his now glistening chin and lips coated in your slick as he spoke, “Not yet, babe.”  Winking at you, he gingerly set you down before he leaned over to where his now discarded jeans were as he pulled out his wallet, fishing out a condom and a small pack of lube for him to use. Once the foil was open and the rubber was on his already hard dick, he then proceeded to open the pack of lube, rubbing it on his length before instructing you to get on your hands and your ass up for him.

 And by Bathala you began to see stars the moment he had entered you. Your nails seemed to dig on the dark leather surface of the car’s upholstery, your back arched to the extreme and you were certain that you could feel Basilio trailing kisses along the expanse of your neck, shoulders, and back, his hands guiding you on his length while yours snaked around to reach for him, tilting your head sidewards to catch his lips in an open-mouthed kiss, his manhood still relentless at fucking you senseless and in between the thrusts and moans, you were thankful that the windows were tinted from the outside or else the two of you would’ve been caught. Throughout the whole night, you two spent it by doing it on every single surface inside the car, doing every single position the two of you could think of, taking each other to new heights with every pose the two of you did, and yes, let’s just say you were sore the morning after that.

 Once the morning came around, the two of you were still naked and you were sure that after your last round with your loving boyfriend, you felt the waves of your hang-over wash over you like a wave, making you groan out in pain. Everything was sore with you and your body was littered with hickies, bruises, and scratch marks while Basilio, who had his healing factor with him thanks to his demi-god status, was relatively unscathed but he did have some hickies of his own to present to the world. Shuffling, you gently nudged Basilio awake as you spoke, “Babe, anong oras na??”

 At your action, your boyfriend, still groggy from sleep, could only groan at this, his hand reaching out to search for his mobile phone to check the time. Squinting, he then saw the time on his phone but the color on his face seemed to drain the moment he saw several missed calls and messages from his twin brother and the Babaylan-Mandirigma herself. “SHIT!” Basilio managed to cry out of sheer panic, his head accidentally hitting against the roof of the car, making him hiss even more, hands holding the spot where he had hit his head. “Lagot tayo kay Bossing, (Y/N), kagabi pa niya tayo tinatwagan kasama ni Kuya Crispin.” At the mere mention of Alex and Crispin’s name, you seemed to understand the sense of urgency before the two of you began to clean up the car, dressing up as you did so, attempting to make yourselves look more presentable and cover the tracks from yesterday’s events. Once done, Basilio was driving like a speeding madman in a rush to head back where his brother and Alex were at.

 It took him at least an hour to arrive at their destination with Alex taking the role as today’s designated driver while Basilio sat in the back with his brother. “San ba kayo galing? Kagabi pa namin kayo tinatawagan ni Crispin, (Y/N), Basilio. Ano ba nangyare, ha?” Alex spoke, her eyes flickering over to where Basilio was, sheepishly scratching the back of his head as he spoke, “Sensya na ho, Bossing. Nag-sight seeing kasi kami ni (Y/N) kagabi tas nag-bar hoping kami tas pagkatapos nakatulog kami dito sa kotse.” A little doubtful of this, Alex could only glance at you from the corner of her eye, expecting for you to react but you held your emotions close to your heart as you spoke, “Totoo po yung sinasabi ni Basilio, bossing. Di po naming sadya na di kayo replyan ni Crispin. Di na po mauulit.” Nodding, Alex then excused the both of you and the car ride was silent, save for the fact that the radio was playing Last Friday Night by Katy Perry. You did feel a little bit cold however and you couldn’t help the fact that something was missing until Crispin screamed out in surprise, horror, and disgust, finally noticing the thing you were missing. Ah shit. “TANGINA BASILIO, ANO TO!?!?!” Crispin managed to yell out, holding up your lace underwear for everyone in the car to see with Basilio quickly snatching the piece of clothing away from his brother, tucking it in his pocket before he responded, “ANONG-ANO KA DIYAN KUYA!?! WALA KANG NAKITA!!”

You silently prayed to Bathala for him to forgive you but you were sure as hell Alex won’t. You made a mental note to not ever do it in the car you guys use for missions ever again.

#trese #trese netflix #trese x reader #trese fanfic #basilio #basilio x reader #basilio trese #alexandra trese #crispin #crispin trese #maliksi trese #maliksi #smut #AWIT I CANT BELIEVE I'VE MANAGED TO FINISH THIS UP AT 3:24 AM #SAKIT NG LIKOD KO #GOOD LUCK TO YOU BASILIO SIMPS

[hamliet]

Ahhh well, I have written much on Romeo and Juliet before, because it's one of my favorite works of Shakespeare and of literature itself. It is criminally underrated and scorned because of sexist anti-romance sentiment. So uh, yeah, I'm more of your opinion.

To start with, I wrote this here, and highly recommend this old post by someone else as well. It's quite comprehensive.

But, because I love Romeo and Juliet and the more I learn about it, the more impressed I am with the absolute art of the story Shakespeare told, I have more to say. Essentially:

Juliet is one of the most astounding female characters in all of literature, and most of her brilliance has been lost with the loss of Shakespearean context. You see, Juliet was a deliberate deconstruction of the idealized, virginal, holy creature of Woman. Yes, that's how the medieval poets like Petrarch (the inventor of the sonnet, which Shakespeare adapted and wrote his own versions of in Romeo and Juliet and hundreds more on their own) and even Dante Alighieri (yes, that Dante, the Inferno guy) wrote their women. For Petrarch, Laura (whom he like, never talked to) was the object of all his love poetry. For Dante, Beatrice was written as his spiritual guide into Paradise in Paradiso.

Not to simplify their love for these women, but Shakespeare was essentially like "RIP but I'm different." He wrote Juliet as a human character with flaws (hardly a spiritual guide) who was not this virginal, holy creature. She starts off the play extremely obedient to her family and polite, almost like that ideal, but as the play goes on she begins to let her fire grow.

Romeo's poems for Rosaline are deliberately trite and parody Petrarch's sonnets, as well as other sonnets from the day (for example, Rosaline is literally sworn to chastity forever, which wasn’t even the case for Laura or Beatrice). While the fact that Romeo can switch loves from Rosaline to Juliet so quickly does indeed emphasize his flaw (impulsivity and deep passion), it also thereby emphasizes his humanity, because the unique imagery Romeo uses with Juliet show that he is really in love with her as she is--not as an idea like with Rosaline, but as a human being. As with many of Shakespeare's other renowned plays' characters, Romeo's flaws are also his strengths. He's complex--human.

So what am I going on about? Why did Shakespeare write Romeo and Juliet this way?

To emphasize their humanity. Which is interesting, because Romeo and Juliet's first meeting, the one where they both create a sonnet together, is all about idolatry:

Romeo If I profane with my unworthiest hand This holy shrine, the gentle sin is this. My lips, two blushing pilgrims, ready stand To smooth that rough touch with a tender kiss. Juliet Good pilgrim, you do wrong your hand too much, Which mannerly devotion shows in this; For saints have hands that pilgrims' hands do touch, And palm to palm is holy palmers' kiss. Romeo Have not saints lips, and holy palmers too? Juliet Ay, pilgrim, lips that they must use in prayer. Romeo O, then, dear saint, let lips do what hands do; They pray, grant thou lest faith turn to despair. Juliet Saints do not move, though grant for prayers' sake. Romeo Then move not, while my prayer's effect I take. [He kisses her]

He describes her as a holy shrine and a saint, but the more their romance goes on, the more human she becomes. He kisses her right away. When they meet in the balcony scene, Juliet herself tells Romeo that the only thing she wants him to swear by--no gods or moons--is himself. In other words, Romeo and Juliet can be seen as a deeply humanistic play. 

Also, the more their romance continues, the more human they become and yet the deeper their love becomes. As one of the posts I linked above states, Romeo loves Juliet more after they’ve had sex, not less. Juliet loves Romeo more despite the fact that she knows he killed her cousin--and she is not happy with him for that, either. The more they learn of each other, the more they love each other. 

Oh, and about the extra gross modern take that "it's actually a story about a 13 year old and a much older man"--that is complete bogus, as the above post says. Romeo is almost certainly 15 or 16. While people can be squicked out by it (as it was designed to do with some Italian stereotypes), to say it shows anything creepy is basically literary blasphemy and betrays an utter lack of reading comprehension. 

Juliet sets the parameters in their relationship: she tells him if he really loves her, he has to marry her before she will sleep with him, and Romeo does. She muses herself how much she wants to sleep with him in a way that clearly expresses Juliet’s very human desires. Juliet is going to assert who she is and go after what she wants. 

So to go back to your question, it’s not just about their families, but about society as well, as Prince Escalus says in the final scene:

Capulet! Montague! See what a scourge is laid upon your hate, That heaven finds means to kill your joys with love. And I for winking at your discords too Have lost a brace of kinsmen. All are punish’d.

Everyone is punished for participating in the feud, which, keep in mind, we were introduced to via an intro fight scene between the servants of the respective families joking about raping the women in the opposing family. Yes, really. It’s almost like toxic masculinity was being called out before its time. 

Society is extremely sexist, as we see when Juliet’s father essentially sells her to Paris for the sake of having political clout to win the feud (literally, as Paris is the Prince’s kinsman) and threatens to send her on the streets to prostitute herself if she wants to survive for asking him not to make her marry Paris. But the cat’s out of that bag: Juliet is not going back to being the docile, obedient idol. She’s decisive. She wants to write her own story, and if that makes her a sinner, well then, she’ll go to hell. In the end, when the Friar suggests that Juliet come with him so that he can hide her away in some convent (after Romeo’s death), Juliet refuses and kills herself. She is not going back to being a figure shrouded in some kind of ethereal, unknown glow. She is a person, and people die. But she shouldn’t have had to die for people to see her as a person. 

There’s also another layer here: the imagery Romeo uses for Juliet (the sun) and that Juliet uses for Romeo (the moon) is the inverse of how imagery was typically presented in those days. The moon was feminine; the sun, masculine. Even if we look at Romeo and Juliet’s respective character traits, Romeo is the flighty, impulsive, love-struck one who cries all the time, while Juliet is the decisive, bold, and loyal one. That’s the first thing Juliet declares to Romeo in the balcony scene: that she will always be loyal, and she shows this in every choice she makes in the story.

In other words, Shakespeare was deliberately playing with gender and its stereotypes in the play, which gains an even more interesting layer to it when you consider that Shakespeare was himself almost certainly bisexual (his sonnets are preeeetty explicit). It’s not a patriarchal narrative; it can well be seen as a queer narrative in a patriarchal society. And it shouldn’t take two kids having to kill themselves to get society to realize how effed up it is. It isn’t an out-of-touch play, but instead one extremely relevant to our society 500+ years later. 

But, Romeo and Juliet’s story is also one of hope. Because instead of no one listening, finally, Montague and Capulet realize how wrong they’ve been. They grieve together, and Capulet vows to let Romeo remain in his family’s tomb, by Juliet’s side (also different, you know, that the husband stays in the wife’s tomb). Montague vows to build a statue for Juliet:

For I will raise her statue in pure gold, That whiles Verona by that name is known, There shall no figure at such rate be set As that of true and faithful Juliet.

Gold is associated with the masculine as well; silver with the feminine. She is remembered as someone “true and faithful,” aka for her loyalty and bravery. 

But no statue can bring Juliet back. She was not an idol, and it’s tremendously unfair that that is all she can become now. Same for Romeo. Even so, the fact that their deaths have finally brought peace to the city means that there is life growing from their deaths. They will never be able to birth a family of their own, but the city will grow and live, because of them. 

#ask hamliet #shakespeare #romeo and juliet #juliet capulet #romeo montague #romeo & juliet #sorry i accientally posted this before i was finished so had to delete it #and thus the ask is a screenshot