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gutsybitsies · 2 years

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This is pnr-ISH in that there’s really only pride and prejudice on one side. because bitty’s a total Jane.

Bitty was busy writing a letter back to his cousin. Lardo had enclosed such a pretty sketch of the sunset from home. It was thundering and windy outside, and he wondered if the delicate buds in the garden would survive. Unexpectedly, the doorbell rang.

Maybe Connor returned early with Marianne? Bitty grabbed two towels and hurried to the door, ready to throw those over their shoulders. Instead of his cousin, he saw Jack Zimmermann standing in the doorway. His tall frame darkened it and he had clearly not anticipated the storm.

“Mr. Zimmermann!” Bitty exclaimed. “Come in, come in. Let me brew up a spot of tea for you, and here, have a towel!”

He herded Jack Zimmermann into the parlor, and went about setting up for him. This may not be his home, but Bitty will be damned if he let someone be soggy and miserable in his presence. Even if that person was Jack Zimmermann, who didn’t seem to like him much.

“Now Marianne still hasn’t come back from whatever business she has, and I don’t see her allowing Connor to come back without her. I’ve received such a nice little sketch from my sister, Larissa. You remember her, I hope,” He rambled. “Let me go fetch that in a bit, but you go ahead and help yourself to some warm tea and dry your hair off. And I’m sure that Marianne won’t mind me searching for some suitable garments for you while yours dry off, she’s quite in awe of your aunt. Now that I think about it, she’ll be downright displeased if I don’t offer you a change of clothing.”

Jack remained silent, before blurting, “How are you? I heard you fell down.”

Surprised, Bitty smiled and rolled his ankle around. “Oh, it healed pretty much in one day. It wasn’t broken or fractured at all, just swollen.”

“Good.” Jack was quiet again.

“Now let me just get those dry clothes for you-”

“No need,” He said abruptly. Jack stopped. “I’m.” He started, then stopped again.

He stood up abruptly, and walked straight towards Bitty, then decided to change his course and instead went to the side, then paced the room from side to side.

“This is very hard for me to say,” he said. Jack Zimmermann finally stopped, this time in front of Bitty, and took a deep breath. “I have the deepest affections for you.”

“I’m sorry, what?” Bitty squeaked. He took a step backwards. Jack Zimmermann was certainly a handsome fellow, and that look in his eyes...Bitty would swoon over him any day. But Jack had never expressed other than disinterest or disdain towards him. Bitty always tried to think the best of most people, and even he thought that sometimes Jack was excessively grumpy for no reason.

“This has been torturing me,” Jack continued. “I can’t tell whether or not you’re attracted to me, you are so free in your expression. The one moment I think a smile was directed at me alone, I find you coquettishly laughing with another person. Of course I understand your aim, you wish to gain some measure of nobility that your family lacks through marriage with me. Otherwise how can your family's waning dignity and fortune ever lay claim to any sort of honor? And your mother no doubt has input in your head everything to do with taking the path paved easily to better fortunes and standing, to seduce men like me.

And yet I fall for it! So you win. You’ve had my affections since the beginning, and it has only grown stronger. I look at you and I can’t tear my eyes away. My ears seek your voice, my fingers itch for- well. I’ve tried to rid myself of these feelings, because I know that you are exactly the type of shallow that I shun, but I can’t. So you’ve won, and I’m here asking for your hand in marriage.”

He waited patiently for Bitty’s “yes,” but it didn’t come. The other man stood, as if frozen in surprise. A blush made its way up to his rosy cheeks, the ones that Jack longed to caress and kiss.

Bitty took another step back, and Jack took a step forward into his space.

That’s when Bitty burst into tears.

Jack panicked. “I-I know that this news is good but you don’t have to cry. Happy or not tears shouldn’t fall-”

“No!” Bitty turned and ran out of the room. He stopped at the entrance to the parlor, and turned back to Jack.

“It would be a lie if I told you that I’d never entertained thoughts about you,” Bitty said, his eyes trained on the ground, his tears, motivated by fear and surprise, dripping down his face. He refused to look up at Jack. “I’ve always tried to find the best in you, because no one who’s such good friends with Mr. Knight can be a bad person! And you’ve shown adequate politeness over the past few days, but now I see the kind of person you truly are. Was I really as coquettish with other people, or were you just disappointed that I wasn’t directing all my attention to you, even if you had given me no cause to? Because I have never, ever exceeded beyond what is polite and appropriate, and I’m sure that in more detailed recollections you will find no instance where I have behaved irresponsibly.

‘And Lardo was right about you. You hold yourself above all overs, you act as if just by speaking with me you’re extending some sort of honor. All those-those nasty words you said about my family! Did you think that I would swoon into your arms after you insulted the people I love and hold closest to my heart” Bitty’s eyes were drying now as he calmed down, and his breath evened out. “Now bless your heart, but please see yourself out.”

Jack made his way out, and stopped in front of Bitty, but took a step back when Bitty flinched at his closeness.

“I only spoke the truth about our circumstances.” He said, softly, afraid to raise his voice in fear of Bitty crying again. “Surely you-”

“Then that must mean that it’s destined we can never be together.” Bitty interrupted, his voice still weak from shock. “Not when I’m clearly a money grabbing shallow thing and when you’re too noble, too rich, and too good for my ilk.”

Bitty turned away, and didn’t see how Jack left, but the door wasn’t slammed and he had heard slow measured footsteps walking away.

He remembered the first time he saw Jack, he was blown away at how handsome Jack was. They had one dance, where Jack was silent and gloomy as Bitty tried to make small talk. That was the majority of Jack’s interactions with him. Silent, sulking, staring at him occasionally like Bitty had wronged him. And yet Jack had never caused him harm or discomfort before, so Bitty was happy to defend him against Lardo’s sharp words and criticisms.

And now Bitty couldn’t get Jack out of his mind. Jack, who loved him. Jack, who hated his family. Jack, who saw him as someone as low as dirt. He had no love for Jack in his heart, and yet Bitty felt the ghost of a heartbreak, telling him that he was this close to being torn apart by the harsh words of someone he could’ve loved so so much.

The next day, as he was taking a walk in the gardens, he saw Jack pacing around. When Jack saw him, he looked determined and walked towards Bitty.

Bitty froze, unsure of what to do. He wished to turn tail and run, but his politeness kept him rooted to his place.

“Good morning, Mr. Zimmermann,” Bitty said.

“Good morning, Mr. Bittle.” Jack shoved a letter into his hands. “I’ve been here for a while waiting for you. Please read this.” Then he paused, as if he wanted to say something, before he gave a curt nod and left.

I apologize deeply for what I have said about your family, and what I have said about you. This is my apology to you, a letter of vindication for your shame (for now I see I have shamed you yesterday). You were right, I was enthralled in my own emotions, by my own jealousy. I have shamed you unrightfully, and now I have cast shame upon myself.

I understand that you may not wish to see me ever again, and I promise you that I will cease to seek you out.

Bitty folded the letter, and sighed. Jack’s words when he proposed, although they were rude, were true. Jack would in fact be lowering himself to marry him. All Bitty had to inherit was the meager Bittle estate, mere pennies compared to what Jack had, and it was true, he had little in strategies for keeping his family estate and standing at its height.

If Jack hadn’t been ashamed of him, Bitty thought, he would’ve married him. Bitty thought about handsome Jack and his handsome eyes and sighed. But if he accepted Jack’s proposal, then all Bitty would have for the rest of his life would be churlish words thrown at him, expectations for him to kiss his husband’s feet every day, and snide words about his family flung every day...

Jack Zimmermann was facing a crisis.

“I don’t have to come with you.”

“Yes, you do!” Shitty said. “I’ve been exchanging letters with Lardo and honestly it’s time. I’ve sent a letter to her father already, and I need you as moral support. A man can only propose to the person he loves once.”

Jack felt even lower, if that was possible. “Yes, that’s true. Just the one time.”

“Honestly, I’m surprised you’re not raising a fuss about this. You used to be firmly against the Duangs and their relatives.” Shitty said. “You were trying to convince me to give up on Lardo and that her family wouldn’t be worth the hassle.”

Jack groaned. “Don’t remind me.”

“What happened?” Shitty looked concerned.

“I can’t tell you as this involves another person. But I’ve learned my lesson,” Jack replied. “If you love Lardo, and you feel she loves you back, you should lay your heart bare.”

“Woah,” Shitty said. “What happened to the cynical Jack Zimmermann? I like this new person! You’re coming with me and sharing the greatest moment of my life.”

“Ugh.” Jack buried his face in a couch pillow, thinking about having to face Eric Bittle again. The thought of Eric Bittle disliking him had struck such a terrible, miserable chord inside him, and Jack knew that if he comes to the Duang Estate with Shitty, then Eric Bittle would probably outright hate him. Or worse, he’d be afraid of Jack. He couldn’t bear causing Bittle pain, but apparently that was just his lot in life. Jack Zimmermann, the one who causes misery to the one he loves.

“I’m cutting this visit short and heading back home,” Jack said, getting up. “I’m going to check up on Ford, and I’m going to stay there until after you propose.”

“Aww, you miss your sis,” Shitty said. “Go and spend some time with her, but I’ll be personally arriving to your estate to drag you with me.”

Jack just shrugged and left.

When he arrived back, his housekeeper greeted him and informed him that there were some visitors on the estate.They were currently strolling through the gardens. It would only be polite for him to quickly greet them, before fucking off back inside so he can listen to Ford sing and think about where he’d gone wrong.

Jack headed to the garden, and he saw a peppy couple cooing over the statues and finely manicured bushes, before a figure trailing behind them caught his eyes.

He’d never thought that he would see Eric Bittle again. He spent so much time going over what went wrong with Mr. Bittle, he had to stop himself over and over again from going to him to bother him about it.

#zimbits #unfinished #old draft

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h-worksrambles · 2 years

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Top 10 Sonic characters

As Sonic Frontiers continues to make me more intrigued with each new trailer, I decided to channel my recent thoughts on the series, and ramble about my favourite characters from across the franchise. I don’t think a topic this self explanatory needs much preamble, except that will contain spoilers for numerous games in the series. Also, while I will touch on external media where relevant, this is gonna be pretty game centric as I’m not super familliar with the comics, and getting too bogged down in other continuities can get confusing fast. With that said, let the hot takes begin!

10: Chaos

I tend not to very big on the one off villains of the Sonic series. I like the idea of a rogues gallery for the series, but because I think the franchise has such a solid main antagonist (and trust me, we’ll get there) any other baddie who steps up to the plate ends up feeling like a downgrade. Thankfully, Sonic Adventure provides the exception to the rule. The former guardian of the Chao, Chaos is one of the major antagonists in Adventure, freed from his prison within the Master Emerald by Dr. Eggman. Chaos’ signature ability to evolve to new more powerful forms by consuming the Chaos Emeralds gives him an interesting dynamic with the heroes as a recurring boss fight who is fought in a number of increasingly more threatening incarnations. His overall presence and threat level is therefore able to escalate in a way not many Sonic villains do. This culminates in the iconc final battle in which he becomes the deadly Perfect Chaos, taking on Super Sonic amidst a flooded Station Square, an envoronment the player has had the whole game to get comfortable in before Chaos tears it down. And while he starts a tendancy for other villains to abruptly replace Eggman as the final boss which I’m not too fond of, Chaos gets a pass for doing it first and, in my eyes, doing it best. The main thing that prevents Chaos from being higher is that while I love him as a recurring fight and as a means of storytelling through gameplay, the actual narrative side of his character is...a little weak. Chaos’ role as a force of nature villain means that he can’t have much in the way of personality outside of what other characters tell us Chaos is feeling. His backstory does generate a degree of pathos on paper but it’s not executed as well as it could have been. For the uninitiated, Chaos was the guardian of the Chao, and a once gentle entity who watched over his charges at the shrine of the Master Emerald. However, his home was desecrated by the warmongering ancient Echidna tribe who wanted to use the Emerald’s power for themselves, killing the Chao in the process. Chaos was driven into a maddened rage and took revenge on the warmongerers, before being sealed in the Master Emerald by a young Echidna girl named Tikal, before he could do any more harm. It’s a pretty interesting backstory and takes the series into unexpectedly dark territory compared to what came before. And on paper, this story of violence, greed and tampering with the unknown, ended by Sonic and co. reminding Chaos of the importance of friendship is a nice, feel-good arc. Unfortunately, in practice though, it’s told through a string of disconnected, vague flashbacks across each character’s campaign, and this format means there’s just not enough time to give Chaos, or Tikal, the pathos that this story warrants. It tends to be more effective when read on the wiki than actually played. Still, quibbles aside, I appreciate Chaos, and Sonic Adventure’s lore, for feelng like an organic extension of the concepts set up in the classic games. It gives greater weight and context to the Chaos Emeralds, Angel Island and the ancient Echidnas, and that’s admittedly cool even if the execution could use some work. Chaos remains a fun villain to fight and think about, earning him a spot on this list.

9: Metal Sonic

Sonic’s robotic doppelgänger, debuting in Sonic CD, Metal Sonic is probably second only to Eggman as Sonic’s most recurring adversary. In his debut game, he served to impede Sonic’s efforts to undo Eggman’s conquest of the Little Planet, copying Sonic’s abilities and kidnapping Amy Rose as bait. His actual in the flesh (uhh...so to speak) appearances are brief, with his most noteworthy scene being the deadly race against Sonic on Stardust Speedway. Metal typically tends to be a silent, cold figure, a sharp contrast to Sonic’s warmth and liveliness. His ability to copy the abilities of his foes also appears to extend beyond Sonic himself, with Sonic the Fighters portraying him as mimicking the whole roster’s moveset in an infamously tough penultimate battle. However, outside of CD, his appearances were pretty brief, with his other most noteworthy role being in the Sonic OVA, which introduced an intriguing concept that Metal, being a copy of Sonic, shares personality traits with him (though he expresses them solely through body language rather than words), and may therefore have some capacity for good. This anime still shines as one of Metal’s best moments. It wasn’t until Sonic Heroes that Metal would make another prominent appearance, though it’s sadly not one I’m wild on. Here, Metal Sonic betrays Dr. Eggman, takes control of his armada and uses his copy abilities to become an amalgamation of all the playable heroes (as well as the latent vestiges of Chaos) transforming into a giant metallic dragon, even capable of using Chaos Control. Existing as a copy of Sonic has warped Metal’s self perception to the point that he now believes himself to be the real Sonic, and wants to overcome his ‘copy’ before creating an empire of machines. It’s an interesting idea but one that falls flat in execution. Mostly because someone decided it was necesarry to give Metal a laughable redesign complete with a cape (Edna Mode would be ashamed) and to give the previously silent character a voice. Subtlety is thrown out the window as this two bit cartoon villain rambles about his desire to become the supreme being. It’s a spectacle and a half to watch all twelve heroes team up against him, but ultimately, he ends up feeling like Metal Sonic in name only. Plus, sidelining Eggman at the last minute had become a throughly tired trope by that point.

Fortunately, Metal has stuck around since, returning to his prior role as Eggman’s stoic right hand robot. Whenever he shows up as a boss fight, it’s always an entertaining time. Nonetheless, I remain hopeful that Metal may recieve a more pronounced role in the future. Even if I disliked the execution, the notion of Metal Sonic believing himself to be the ‘true Sonic’ is interesting, and one I would like to see revisited, perhaps re-exploring the idea more subtly by keeping Metal as a silent character who emotes through physicality, rather than generic villain monologues. I’m down for this bot to show us what he’s made of again...provided there’s no capes involved this time.

8: Shadow the Hedehog

Oh yeah, we’re getting into the spicy takes now! Shadow is probably one of the most popular characters in the entire franchise; his recent teaser appearance in the post credits scene of the second Sonic movie spawning mass outpourings of hype from fans. And while I certainly enjoy the character, and may once have ranked him second or even first when I was younger, I also have a complicated relationship with him. But before we get into that, let’s look briefly at Shadow’s debut in Sonic Adventure 2. Like Chaos before him, Shadow took the franchise into much darker territory. He is the product of a research experiment held fifty years ago on the Space Colony ARK, to create the ‘ultimate life form’ by Professor Gerald Robotnik. In the present day, Shadow works with Dr. Eggman to use the ARK’s weaponry to hold Earth to ransom, planning to backstab the scientist to destroy the Earth and avenge his deceased creator and his friend, Maria. This leads to him repeatedly clashing with Sonic, their rivalry escalating over multiple boss fights. Meanwhile, he grapples with his fractured memories, his identity and his hatred of humans, until he recovers his true memories of Maria and redeems himself, teaming up with Sonic and sacrificing himself to save the Earth like Maria wanted.

Much like Chaos in Adventure though, it’s not exactly ideally executed. As fun and campy and ambititious as Adventure 2′s story is, it can be extremely rushed in places and Shadow suffers from an absurdly fast redemption arc. His character hints at many fascinating subtextual points, raising questions about what concepts like identity, memory and life would mean to an artificallly created being. It’s some of the most ambitious writing in the series. Unfortunately, despite these high concept ideas, the practicalities of Shadow’s redemption amount to him conveniently remembering the truth of his past at just the right moment. There’s little in the way of proper self-reflection or growth, which is…y’know, kind of the point of a redemption arc. Still, despite these issues, Shadow’s personality is pretty charming, a quiet, smug-yet-not-too-smug powerhouse whose clashes with Sonic are the highlight of the game. But this contrasts with a surprisingly gentle and sensitive soul, which has been hardened by revenge but learns to heal. His story, for all its faults, has a satisfying and pretty sad ending. So yeah, I like Shadow...

In Sonic Adventure 2.

Sadly, much like when I once gave my thoughts on Sephiroth from Final Fantasy, Shadow is proof of what happens when you don’t let a good thing rest. He is promptly brought back from the dead in Sonic Heroes, setting the stage for a number of writing decisions that have led me to turn on the character. His two game spanning amnesia arc was ultimately pointless, culminating in his own spin off game, Shadow the Hedgehog, which made him feel horribly out of character as a brooding, sullen anti hero, making extremely ill-fitting choices through the game’s morality system. He then joins the very military that ruined his life in Sonic 06 where he’s basically the secret main character, jumping to full blown creator’s pet, running circles around the rest of the cast in a way that makes him feel like an embarrassing Gary Stu. Since then, his portrayals have amounted to little more than ‘angry rival to Sonic’, with much of the charm or nuance of his debut having evaporated. And while I’ve seen much blame levelled at modern iterations for ‘flanderising’ him, I just found it to be the latest in a long line of bad writing choices for him. Moreover, I can’t help but feel this was kind of inevitable ever since Sonic Team decided to bring back a character who’d already died, and whose story had already been told.

The strength of Shadow’s first appearance is enough to snag him a spot on this list. But at the end of the day, I do think the trope of ‘foil to Sonic who starts as an enemy but becomes a friend’ has been done better both before and since, and when practically every creative decision with the character has left me cold, to the point that he kind of embodies a lot of the franchise’s problems with excess and inconsistency, it’s hard to feel the thrill for him I once did. Still looking forward to that third movie though...

7: Amy Rose

One of the most prominent characters, the leader of Team Rose and Sonic’s self proclaimed girlfriend, Amy first showed up in Sonic CD. Originally kidnapped by Metal Sonic and rescued by Sonic, Amy’s long standing crush on the blue blur has led her to often follow in his wake. But Amy is keen to prove herself and not be dead weight, so this has led to her getting character development and becoming more independent. This is most evident in Sonic Adventure, where she takes on one of Eggman’s powerful mechs to protect a baby animal she befriended in the story, spending the whole game evading her pursuer before finally confronting it and taking it down. Despite her crush on Sonic being the most well known part of her character, (and this next point may bother a few shippers in my audience) Amy tends to be at her most enjoyable when she has relatively little to do with him. She’s a very plucky, spunky character, keen to join in the fight against Eggman despite not having powers on the level of the others, so she finds workarouds like her techniques with her signature Piko Piko Hammer. Games like Sonic Advance key into this by giving her a unique playstyle quite unlike the rest. By Sonic Heroes, she’s even formed her own team, following her hero’s example while striking out on her own. She’s also one of the more gentle characters, often able to win over even antagonists like Gamma or Shadow when Sonic can’t.

Unfortunately, Amy tends to get done kind of dirty by the writers a lot of time, in turn getting a needlessly harsh response from fans as a result. Her crush on Sonic, despite being probably the least interesting part of her character, was often played up as borderline obsessive while her temper was cartoonishly exaggerated in media like Sonic X, Sonic Heroes, Sonic Riders and the like. Put simply it was nowhere near as funny as the writers seemed to think it was and just gave Amy the vibe of a bad walking anime trope. Amy was fun because was plucky, determined but deceptively sweet despite her strong willed nature. Not because she was a one note jealous yandere who hit her friends with a hammer when she got mad.

Thankfully, Sonic Team have moved away from this in recent years, though, like many Sonic characters, the negative response to her worse portrayals seems to have left them still kind of scared to use her much at all. However, unlike Shadow, who would have been better served by just being retired good and early, I still tend to enjoy Amy when she shows up and I look forward to future games giving her more time to shine.

6: Miles ‘Tails’ Prower

Miles Prower, aka Tails, is one of the franchise’s most long standing characters, Introduced in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 as a wide eyed kid who tagged along with Sonic out of admiration, Tails has proven himself to be a worthy ally and friend to Sonic across the games, to the point that they’re often potrarayed as surrogate siblings. Their friendship remains one of the most endearing in the series, so it’s always fun to see them interact. Tails is a lot like Amy where a big part of his character development is about wanting to be like Sonic and learning to become independent by embracing what makes him unique. As early as Sonic 3, Tails’ unique ability to fly helped him to stand out from Sonic by playing levels his way, to the point that he’s pretty much the game’s easy mode. Meanwhile, in Sonic Adventure, Tails’ campaign is a full on character arc about him embracing his skills as a mechanic and pilot, skills only he can bring to the group, and he even faces down Dr. Eggman alone without Sonic. His newfound independence carries on into Sonic Adventure 2. Even when he thinks Sonic might be dead, he resolves to keep fighting on behalf of his ‘big bro’, taking down Eggman on his own. It’s a great multi game arc and probably one of the best (maybe even only) examples of consistent, cross-game character growth in the whole series. Despite that though, Tails’ friendship with Sonic shouldn’t be downplayed as it’s still a very endearing part of his character. Sonic Advance 3 adorably describes them as having an ‘unbreakable bond’ if they’re selected as a team. One of the best showcases of their dynamic is Sonic Colours, where plenty of time is devoted to their charming back and forth as they explore Eggman’s Interstellar Amusement Park. Even though he knows he’s the smarter of the two, and isn’t afriad to gently point out his friend’s recklessness, their genuine trust in, and respect for each other never fails to shine through.

The only thing keeping Tails from ranking higher is that he occasionally suffers from a lack of agency. As much as I like the interplay between him slowly becoming more independent from Sonic while still being his best friend, you start to notice that the games tend to be scared of letting him go too far from Sonic himself. Tails is at his most boring when he’s just reduced to a fawning tag along who’s only really here because Sonic is. Games like Sonic Heroes, Sonic 06 and Sonic Forces all really struggle with giving Tails meaningful stuff to do in the game, or just giving him much of a life outside of Sonic. Fortunately, Tails is likable enough that, even when he’s just kind of here, it’s at least consistently nice to see him. And the 2D games in particular like Advance and Mania have done a great job making him fun to play. It’s always a pleasure to see this kid take to the skies.

5: Sonic the Hedgehog

Any list of best Sonic characters would be incomplete without the fastest thing alive himself. Sonic’s character is arguably a major part of what allowed the franchise to get as popular as it did. A much of that is because he’s first and foremost...well...cool. Hyperactive, adventurous, confident (to the point of a little cocky), Sonic has a brand of capable coolness that’s easy for kids getting into the series to latch on to. Some of the most enjoyable scenes of the series are just watching Sonic do his thing, racing across the plains as an unstoppable, determined force in Sonic CD’s intro, or blitzing through an armada of robots with a cheeky grin in the opening of Sonic Unleashed. He’s just consistently fun to watch.

While being the mascot of an incredibly lucrative multimedia franchise means he’s not prone to a ton of growth as a character, Sonic has a deceptive amount of range. While his first impression is that of a fast talking, hot blooded adventurer who can’t sit still, Sonic is capable of being surprisingly emotionally intelligent and fiercely loyal to his friends. He empathises with Chaos’ suffering in Sonic Adventure, is able to offer genuine life advice to the distraught villain Merlina in Sonic and the Black Knight, and dives in to protect the alien Wisps in Sonic Colours without a second thought. Often Sonic will play a pivotal role in the development of other characters in the series, the flat character who helps the rest of his friends to live as their best selves. The fact that this rarely, if ever, crosses into annoying Gary Stu territory is honestly pretty impressive. Others may call him a hero, but in his own words, he’s ‘just a guy who loves adventure’ Sonic and the Black Knight is a game I’ve seen especially get a lot of praise for how right it gets Sonc as a character. And even as someone who doesn’t particularly like that game, I’m inclined to agree. I’d even say he pretty much carries it just by being so likable and sincere underneath all the confident bluster and quips.

I even debated putting him higher on the list but the main reason I held off is mostly that being ‘ground zero’ for the series can kind of hold Sonic back as a character. Most notably, despite being a very simple character who shouldn’t be hard to write, Sonic is most prone to drastic reinterpretations depending on who’s writing or voicing him. I think this is down to the fact that Sonic was always marketed on being ‘cool’. But what constitutes as ‘cool’ is subjective. Depending on what culture or context he’s being written for, Sonic’s character can change pretty drastically. Just look at how in the 90′s alone, Sonic was interpreted as a chill, nature-loving adventurer in the Japanese canon, a catchphrase-laden dude with attitude in the American cartoons and Archie comics, or a prickly, sarcastic punk with a secret heart of gold in the British Fleetway comics. Couple that with his numerous English voices, and Sonic is arguably one of the more inconsistent characters in the cast, with differences in his portrayals in the games, the Sonic Boom show, the movies and the IDW comics still being hotly debated by fans. This is actually a large factor in why I said I would mostly stick to the games. Because sorting out my feelings about Sonic’s ingame variances is hard enough without including everything else.

Still, no matter how much his character is prone to change, I nonetheless tend to find myself liking Sonic whenever he shows up, and he’s a big part of why I keep coming back to the series. It’s just fun to guide this hyperactive hedgehog with attitude through fast paced levels and watch him trade banter back and forth with evildoers on his journey to save the world.

4: Knuckles the Echidna

Here he comes rougher than the rest of them...

Got the memes out of your system now? Good. Moving along.

Sonic’s rival-turned-friend first appeared in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. The last surviving member of the Echidnas, Knuckles has spent his life guarding the Master Emerald on Angel Island. Originally tricked into believing Sonic and Tails were a threat to his island, Knuckles eventually saw the error of his ways and joined the two to stop the mad scientist. Since then, while he still maintains his role as guardian, he has been able to venture beyond his island, finally getting to see the world by joining Sonic on his adventures, even making a name for himself as a treasure hunter.

For as many foils as Sonic has had over the years, Knuckles is still probably the most entertaining one in terms of his dynamic with Sonic. Whereas Sonic is impulsive, quippy and playful, a seasoned explorer who has met and befriended plenty of people across his travels, Knuckles is blunt and direct, having spent his life in isolation bound to a single duty. He lacks Sonic’s people skills which can make him seem gullible. He’s naive but short tempered. Sonic can easily get a rise out of him, but Knuckles is also more prone to call out or challenge Sonic in a way Tails or Amy might not. They’re often a common source of comedy when they butt heads. I think a lot of this played into why his recent portrayal in the second movie was so well recieved.

He’s also a treat whenever he’s playable. In Sonic 3, as well as the Advance games and Mania, Knuckles was in many ways the expert mode choice. He couldn’t jump as high so he struggled with typical platforming, but his unique skills in wall climbing and gliding made him to go-to-character for finding secrets. Sonic could blitz through levels in record time, while Knuckles could plumb them for hidden rewards. He was Sonic’s tempramental opposite in gameplay just as he was in personality.

Granted at times, his naivety gets misinterpreted by the writers as mere stupidity, and while that can be genuinely hilarious in iterations more divorced from canon (see the alternate universe tv show, Sonic Boom) it doesn’t feel true to him in the games, which can go hand in hand with how, much like Tails, the writers sometimes seem unsure how much of a life to give him outside of Sonic. As much as I like Knuckles, his task as the guardian of the Master Emerald gives him a distinct role in the setting apart from Sonic himself, meaning he benefts from slightly more infrequent appearances, so that it’s more meaningful when he does show up. I also do thinkthat, even at his best, the guy has a lot of missed potential. His identity and legacy as the last of his kind has only had its surface scratched in Adventure and Chronicles, both with less than ideal execution.

He may be perhaps the most memefied member of the cast, but I think that speaks to his staying power. Tough and capable yet funny and adorkable, nobody in this series knock-knocks quite like Knuckles.

3: E102 Gamma

The latest in the line of Dr. Eggman’s E-Series robots in Sonic Adventure, Gamma only had one major appearance in the whole series, but he left a powerful impression. Gamma’s storyline marked the first time a mainline Sonic game let us actually play as one of Dr. Eggman’s robots. He begins in the service of his creator, but a fateful encounter with Amy Rose leads him to question his identity. Much like the Badniks from the original Genesis/Mega Drive games, Gamma is an animal encased in a robot shell, so Gamma resolves to free his ‘brothers’ by hunting them down one-by-one, liberating the captive creatures inside.

One of the things that benefits Gamma’s story is its sense of subtelty. Charming as Adventure’s story is, it’s prone to its fair share of janky localisation and goofy animations as an early 3D game. But in Gamma’s story, both of those are kept to a minimum. Gamma is a robot of few words, fiercely dedicated to his mission, and what little dialogue he has amounts to quiet, analytical introspection. He gives the game some much needed restraint, and most of his story is self-contained to his personal arc, with little impact on the wider plot. While it may be disconnected, it’s probably the tightest written of the bunch. It all culminates in Gamma facing down his brother, Beta, mutually destroying each other to free the animals trapped inside them. The innocent bird within his casing lives on and reunites with their family, but Gamma himself silently crumbles to nothing on the deck of the Egg Carrier.

Gamma’s journey remains one of the most compelling parts of the series’ storytelling due to its uniquely subdued and subtle tone, but it’s also a fascinating take on one of the series’ long standing elements. Much like how Chaos gave elements, like the Master Emerald and Angel Island, from the classic games more context and history, Gamma provides a new perspective on the plot point of Eggman turning animals into machines, a staple since Sonic 1. This has always been a minor component of the gameplay, but here it’s used to elicit genuine pathos, demonstrating the cruelty behind Eggman’s goofy appearance, and demonstrating why it’s so important that Sonic constantly puts a stop to his goals.

In a series that is often corny, campy and in your face, Gamma’s arc was quiet, tragic and understated. The fact that so many players were moved by his death demonstrates how likable Sonic Team managed to make him, how they did so much with so little. One off character though he may be, Gamma is rightly remembered as a fan favourite, and I think the fact that Sonic Team haven’t brought him back (outside that one weird time in Sonic Battle) proves that they understand that this shouldn’t be tampered with. Gamma did his duty. Now let him rest...

2: Dr. Eggman

I’ve come to make an announcement: Dr. Eggman is one of the best characters in this franchise!

The world renowned mad scientist and the greatest genius in the world (at least in his estimation), Dr. Eggman has been around since the very beginning, and is rightly a staple of villany in gaming culture. With an IQ of 300 and an even larger ego, Eggman considers himself the rightful ruler of the world, capturing innocent animals and using them to power his machines. Back in the 90′s, Eggman helped to reinforce the subtle environmental message of the series as a whole. The lone human in the early games (at least that we saw), Eggman invaded undisturbed islands of natural beauty so that he could exploit and weaponise them for his own gain. His factories and techo bases were the antithesis of the game’s colourful, pastoral environments, and Sonic’s triumphs helped restore the vibrancy of the land. It’s unapolgetically green in the most 90′s way ever and I love it for that.

This is all bolstered by the fact that Eggman is legitamately fun. He walks this great line of hammy, funny and genuinely capable. He’s often a source of comedy, but not so much because he’s particularly bufoonish, but moreso because it’s fun to watch his ego trip him up, or seeing him clash with his notably less intelligent lackeys across numerous adaptations. Despite this, he can also be genuinely menacing. I’ve already touched on how Sonic Adventure recontextualised the sinister undertones of his plans, but Sonic Adventure 2 also warrants mention. Even if he spends most of the game as Shadow’s unwitting puppet, the game sees him using the Eclipse Cannon to put our heroes, and the whole planet, on the ropes like never before up to that point in the games. It’s probably the closest Eggman has ever come to beating Sonic for good. And a lot of his plans are honestly pretty darn devious. Sonic Unleashed sees him break apart the entire planet. Sonic Generations has him controlling a primal time-controlling alien to undo his past mistakes. Sonic Lost World has him play both Sonic and new villains, the Deadly Six, for fools, and in Sonic Forces, he finally beats Sonic and rules the world for six months. The man is a tank.

The games don��t tend to give him much in the way of backstory but honestly, he doesn’t need one. Eggman is a testament to scientific hubris. As far as he’s concerned, he’s the smartest person in the room at any given time, and that makes him qualified to rule. He doesn’t care if other people think he’s evil. They’re idiots, why should their opinion mattter? The closest he’s gotten to sympathy is a throwaway line in Adventure 2 implying his passion for science began with a genuine respect for his grandfather, Professor Gerald. And really, I think that’s all he needs.His love for science may be genuine, but now it pales in comparison to his love for himself. And all of this is sold by a consistent string of great voice actors in both English and Japanese who excel at bringing him to life. He’s probably the most consistently well performed out of the entire cast.

Honestly, the only time I don’t like him is when the writing itself seems to lack faith in him as a villain. The 2000′s especially had a really obnoxious habit of writing him out of the plot to make way for other, more ‘serious’ (read: boring as sin) monster of the week villains. But I’ve ranted about that enough already. And even then, plenty of those games still provided him with great moments before unceremoniously giving him the boot.

Dr. Eggman was, and is, exactly what the series needs. A cartoonish yet capable antagonist who perfectly contrasts our hero and is a joy every time he’s on screen. Honestly, if the Eggman Empire were ever to become a thing, I’d be tempted to sign up.

1. Blaze the Cat

The princess of another dimension, the guardian of the Sol Emeralds, and (in my humble opinion) the best character in this entire franchise: Blaze the Cat.

Blaze first appeared in Sonic Rush, where her dimension was thrust into contact with Sonic’s thanks to Eggman’s machinations. Blaze wandered Sonic’s world gathering the lost Sol Emeralds, a dimensional counterpart to the Chaos Emeralds. Originally Blaze was a cold and distant figure. Like Knuckles, she was fiercely devoted to her responsibilites, and had little to no social interactions. But she also had the baggage of her unique powers. Blaze is pyrokinetic, able to create and control fire. This was invaluable to her role as guardian, but only made it harder to conect with others when she was young, her powers often frightening those around her. Convincing herself she didn’t need friends, she became very closed off. However, her journey into Sonic’s world changes her perspective. She finds herself unconditionally accepted by Cream the Rabbit, and while her personality clashes with Sonic’s at first, she comes to see him as worthy ally and friend. The two save their universes, and go their seperate ways, promising to see each other again.

As a reformed rival and character foil to Sonic who he helps to grow past their flaws, I’d say she almost feels like Shadow, but better, at least in some ways. As the saviour of her world who fights her own alternate Eggman, she is effectively Sonic’s dimensional counterpart, making the contrast between their personalities much more interesting. And we get to see that arc followed up on in Sonic Rush Adventure. Here we enter the Sol Dimension, and we see Blaze in her element, using the lessons she learned from Sonic to be a better leader to her people in the fight against Captain Whisker (aka ‘Totally Not An Eggman Robot’). We all see she’s still making the effort to come out of her shell socially, as she gradually befriends the well meaning, if somewhat overbearing, Marine the Raccoon. Much like Tails in the Adventure games, Blaze’s arc feels like it carries on coherently across games, helping it feel like the game’s world, and the people within it, are progressing. It’s rare, but satisfying, when this somewhat slapdash franchise, can nail something like that.

As a character, Blaze almost feels immune to being badly portayed, or to fandom discourse. Her appearances, while rare, given that her position means she can’t show up often, are typically welcomed. Even in a panned game like Sonic 06, she somehow managed to be one of only fun characters to play. She’s the one character who almost everyone, no matter which sector of the fanbase you fit into, seems to like. And it’s not hard to see why. She’s one of the few playable female characters in the series. She’s a kickass, no nonesense character, who still is able to show a softer more caring side. Her powers are flashy and fun to watch. She has some of the best and most consistent writing in the series. She’s just so easy to like.

That being said, to briefly circle back, I do think Sonic 06 makes for a good statement as to why it’s okay that Blaze doesn’t show up that much. One of the few attempts to majorly incorporate Blaze into a mainline game outside the Rush duology, the game proceeded to completely rewrite Blaze’s backstory and undo her character arc, reducing her to a tag-along for the far less interesting Silver the Hedgehog, even trying to fridge her to advance his development. This pretty appalling handling of her character has been thankfully written out of canon by the game’s ending, and I, for one, am happy to pretend it never happened (though I’m left wondering why Sonic Team are still so insistent to push them as a duo despite that ending). Perhaps Blaze benefits from rarity for the same reason Gamma does. To relentlessly spam her with appearances would reduce what makes Blaze special. Her few roles have elevated her to a standout character of the franchise and maybe that’s enough.

Blaze may be a princess in canon, but in my eyes, she’s a full on queen, more than deserving of the top spot as the best Sonic character.

And with that, there’s our list. I hope you enjoyed this countdown of my favourites from the colourful cast of Sonic. I hope my takes won’t inspire too much controversy! And most of all, I hope you’re also looking forward to seeing some of these faces return in Sonic Frontiers this November! But until next time, take care!

#sonic the hedgehog #top 10 #character discussion #chaos 0 #metal sonic #shadow the hedgehog #amy rose #miles tails prower #knuckles the echidna #e 102 gamma #dr eggman #blaze the cat

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theshatteredrose · 1 year

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The Necromancer’s Cauldron (Chapter 11) - Etrian Odyssey 5 Fanfiction

AN: Managing to keep up with these weekly updates so fat! Only two more chapters left after this one. Hope you enjoy reading~!

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

Chapter 11:

The situation was dire. Those words rattled around in Drayce’s head as he stared at the congregation of smoke and shadows. The foreboding presence was powerful, all-consuming. Cutting into his chest like razor sharp icicles.

He…didn’t know what to do.

“Ah, Matchitehew,” Nukpana crooned when the omnipresent shadows began to spread. “The Forsaken General. Rise through the Gates of Hell and take your revenge!”

There…had to be something he could do.

In desperation, Drayce turned toward Kyrell. He knew the significance of their situation far greater than Drayce ever could. Yet, Kyrell stood at a distance, arms folded, and truly and overwhelmingly unimpressed. In fact, the corner of his mouth suddenly twitched into a half smirk.

What…? Why would he-?

A bright flash of light quickly gained Drayce’s attention, and he immediately snapped back around to train his gaze upon the centre of the clearing. To the cauldron. And to the smoke that…was suddenly a bright blue in colour.

“What?” Nukpana snapped, staring up at the smoke in angry confusion. “What’s happening?”

“Ah,” Kyrell suddenly tutted, even going as far as to chuckle. “But you did not summon a vengeful necromancer, did you?”

The blue smoke started to gather, pulling together to create a form. A wispy spectre, tall and slender. Ancestral robes and long flowing hair. The form emitted light, the very opposite of the previous shadows.

A celestian?

“Quite an unfortunate mistake on your part,” Kyrell continued, his whole demeanour nonchalant. “You accidentally summoned the soul of the one who had desperately tried to keep this cauldron hidden.”

“…Diandre…” Nukpana snarled lowly.

“The love of Sir Chevell, hm?”

The figure of blue light floated silently toward Chevell, who in turn dropped his sword and reached forward with both hands. Ready to pull the other into his arms. Frantic to do so. Something he had wanted, longed for, for so many years.

Drayce unexpectedly felt tears begin to swell in his eyes as a wave of emotion washed over him. He couldn’t describe what he felt. How he felt when the two souls finally met, taking each other into their arms. The visible sigh of relief, the way their shoulders dropped as the held each other.

The way the light brightened around them for a moment, then dissipating into a brilliant sparkle.

And they were gone.

“Foolish of you to try to use the blood of the compassionate one,” Kyrell continued to mock and chide Nukpana. Finding a bit of joy in doing so.

Nukpana had witnessed the entire scene, too. But unlike Drayce, it made him utterly furious. He whipped around to face Kyrell, shoulders rigid and tense, his face twisted into a hideous scowl.

“Without or without a necromancer wraith at my bidding, I will not be defeated,” he snarled and thumped himself on the chest violently, giving but a small indication at his fury. “Lord Sephtis has imbued me with his power.”

The self-satisfaction Kyrell had previously been displaying fell away abruptly, changing into a narrow, fearsome look of utter distain. “…Sephtis, you say?”

There was that name again. Who was he?

“And when I am done here, I will take that treasure hunter as my own! And I will become stronger than Lord Sephtis himself!”

Drayce unconsciously tightened his grip around his bleeding arm, pinning it against his chest as his breath hitched in his throat. Why? Why…Who was Sephtis? What was going on? What did Drayce himself have to do with anything?!

“You are wrong about another thing,” Kyrell stated calmly, but coldly as a little figure suddenly popped up upon his shoulder. A little black ball. With a yellow beat and two little yellow bird feet. “There is something far stronger than a vengeful necromancer.”

Raven suddenly fluttered from Kyrell’s shoulder, and…shifted form. From a comical little ball to a sleek and menacing bird. With piercing red eyes.

“And that is…” Kyrell raised his arm, allowing for Raven to rest onto his wrist. “A god.”

…A what?

“And you-?” Nukpana’s face changed suddenly. Annoyance and anger dissipating into an expression of complete and untold fear. So quickly, it was almost unfathomable. “No…I-It can’t-”

Kyrell began a slow, methodical walk forward. “Arise, oh Ravenous Devourer of Evil Souls!” His voice echoed, booming in an unearthly baritone. “Devour this wretch and remove the filth of this world!”

Raven flapped its elegant wings and took to flight.

And the very air around them trembled.

The shadows of the trees, illuminated by the soft moonlight, somehow began to move and quiver. Slowly at first, one shadow at a time, they moved. Darting from the darkness of the night and acuminating within the centre of the clearing. As each shadow rushed over the ground, folding effortlessly against the natural terrain, they moved faster, the mass of pure blackness growing in size.

Gathering around Raven.

The strength in Drayce’s legs suddenly gave way and he fell onto his knees, haphazardly resting on his heels.

His mind told him that something was coming. Something powerful was crossing the thin veil between two starkly different worlds. Its movements, its mere presence sent shockwaves. Seemingly through space and time.

A powerful tremor shook the trees and a sound, oh god a sound, was heard. A shriek, a cry, a groan. Something. Mixed together, truly unworldly.

It was a sign. Something had crossed over.

And it was manifesting into physical existence.

Shadows and smoke. Of spectral feathers. Rolling and curling through the air. From an unseen smouldering fire. With it, a smell. The smell of smoke. Of something burning, yet…it was not a scent Drayce had ever, ever experienced before.

He felt breathless as the shadows formed a figure. Large. Bird like. With piercing red eyes.

Ravenous.

Just like the painting he had seen at the museum.

The sight of the voracious god was hindered suddenly when Kyrell stepped directly in front of Drayce. He looked up at the other necromancer, his expression no doubt the one of unadulterated fear.

Yet, Kyrell looked down upon him sadly. His expression unexpectedly gentle.

“You do not need to see nor hear what happens next,” he said as he knelt down before him, and carefully placed his hands over his ears. Where he gently guided Drayce to lean forward. To rest his forehead against his chest.

And all Drayce could hear was his own heartbeat raging in his ears.

How long he stayed like that, with Kyrell’s hands smothering his hearing, he had no idea. He could only count his heartbeat. One heartbeat after the other. That was all he heard.

Slowly, Kyrell pulled back his hands, allowing for him to hear the surprisingly gentle sounds of nature once more. He rested his hands upon his shoulders, however. Because of their proximity to each other, Drayce was unable to see what could be happening behind him. A position the necromancer took on for that exact purpose, most likely.

“Wh-what was…?”

“My apologies,” Kyrell said softly, sincere in his apology. “I wished you hadn’t had to endure that.”

“…Raven is-?

“Yes. Ravenous Devourer of Evil Souls.”

Ravenous…That little black ball of goofiness; the wraith that allowed himself to be used and enjoyed in a game of fetch; the little oddity that would stick his tongue out at people randomly was…

Kyrell suddenly pressed his hand against Drayce’s cheek. The touch soft, soothing. “Do not be afraid. He would never harm a kind, compassionate soul such as yours.”

“He’s…?”

“A god, yes.”

It was all so hard to fathom. “But how could you-?”

“I cannot say,” Kyrell interrupted, gently grazing the pad of his thumb beneath Drayce’s eye, wiping away at the tears he hadn’t realised had fallen. “Not now. Not yet.”

He pulled back his hand and turned slightly to reach behind him. Possibly into a back pocket. He kept his other hand on Drayce’s shoulder, however, again preventing him from looking around him. To the centre of the clearing.

To where Nukpana and his followers once stood.

As if he was preventing him from seeing…

Kyrell turned around to face him fully once more, a white cloth and bottle in his hand. The sight of the two prompted Drayce to unintentionally tense, remembering what had occurred the last time he witnessed the two objects together.

The bottle, however, was something he recognised. It was a bottle of medica.

“Let me see your wound.”

Numbly, Drayce pulled his arm around from his chest and looked down upon it himself. He couldn’t help but wince by the sight of blood coagulating through his fingers. And he feared what could be discovered should he unfurl his tight grip. But with Kyrell’s calm and patient coaxing, he slowly relaxed his grip.

He had to admit that he was somewhat surprised by how…gentle Kyrell was with him. He cared for his wound, bandaged it with the white cloth. And then carefully began to wipe the blood off of Drayce’s other hand.

Each touch was careful. Considerate.

It was…similar to Zohar’s, honestly. And yet, it wasn’t.

That shouldn’t be his main thought, however.

“Your head is swimming with questions and confusion,” Kyrell began. “You have endured so much, in such a short amount of time. I cannot tell you all the things you want to know. Things you deserve to know. A curse prevents it. If I so much as speak a word of it, you will endure pain.”

Drayce furrowed his brow. “Me?”

“Yes,” was all he said as he threw the empty bottle aside.

He then leaned forward suddenly and swept Drayce up into his arms. One arm under his knees, the other wrapped around his shoulders. The movements so swift, but fluid that it was only a suddenly rush of dizziness that Drayce realised that the celestian had effortlessly stood up with him perch in his arms.

To say he was startled would be an understatement. “H-hey!”

Kyrell simply held him closer as he swiftly began to move. “Come. We best return you to your guild.”

Drayce only had the energy to sink into his arms. “But, what about-?”

“Nukpana’s companions are unlikely to attempt anything like that again. I’m sure of it.”

Something terrifying had clearly happened. Far more terrifying than anything Drayce had witnessed. That was for sure.

“The cauldron?”

Kyrell kept his gaze forward as he waited for the stone set of doors to slide open before him. “I will seal this room through the use of the levers. Come morning, it will be placed back in the museum. Where you can deal with it as you see fit. I have no need for it.”

“Nukpana’s soul has been destroyed, hasn’t it?” Drayce asked, idly trailing his fingers over the makeshift bandages around his arm. “Was that…the only way?”

As the doors slid close behind him, Kyrell turned his head. A mere moment later, the stone barrier that had plagued Drayce and his guild during their foray in the labyrinth rose from the ground. Sealing the door and clearing beyond. Just like he had stated.

“Yes,” he answered as he turned to face forward, renewing his journey. “Necromancers can die. But some of them are a little too comfortable within the pits of hell.”

He…didn’t like the sound of that.

A small object suddenly fluttering to rest upon Kyrell’s shoulder drew Drayce’s attention.

A round ball. Yellow beak. Beady white eyes.

Raven.

He rolled off of Kyrell’s shoulder, across his chest before falling face first into Drayce’s stomach. With his little feet flailing, he managed to roll onto his side and peer up at Drayce through little white eyes. And with a tongue flopping out of his little yellow beak.

Drayce couldn’t help but smile as he scooped Raven up with his hands. That was the little black wraith he was used to.

“Ravenous has chosen this form as he does not wish to alarm others,” Kyrell explained, a small and polite smile spreading across his lips.

Did he now? “Well, you certainly surprised me.”

“Are you afraid?”

Drayce idly scratched the top of Raven’s head with a finger. “No,” he answered honestly. “He only seeks evil entities, right? Those who have caused pain and suffering to others for no other reason than their own personal gain?”

“That’s right.”

“But…” Drayce tilted his head back to look up at Kyrell. “How do you know, when a necromancer breaks the rules?”

“It is etched upon their skin.”

Drayce’s eyes widen. “Those markings…?”

Kyrell nodded his head, his gaze catching his for a moment before he promptly looked forward once more. “Yes. Some try to hide their markings, and they can work off their sins through acts of redemption. Yet, others wear them proudly.”

Like Nukpana. His arrogance truly was his own undoing.

“Worry not.” Kyrell gazed at him with a small, somewhat knowing smile. “Your necromancer is safe. Ravenous has no reason to pursue him. Only demonic entities need to be wary.”

Drayce felt himself unconsciously flush. H-his necromancer?

It was a…relief, though. A relief to know that Zohar wasn’t in any danger of Ravenous. He couldn’t imagine that he would be. He was dedicated to his role as a necromancer. He was respectful, careful. He would never do anything to harm anyone. Drayce was adamant about that.

Still, it was a relief.

Kyrell once more shifted his gaze forward. Where his expression suddenly melded into stoicism. “I must find a way to build Ravenous’ strength.”

“Why?”

Kyrell’s eyes narrowed. “There is an evil being that I must destroy. My strength, Raven’s strength, had been depleted. We are not able to face against this being yet. Not yet. Just…a little bit longer.”

Drayce was silent, carefully inspecting Kyrell’s face with his eyes. “You’re fighting for someone, aren’t you?”

His gaze softened. “…Yes.”

Drayce didn’t need to ask who that person was. That person he mentioned before. The one that Drayce reminded him of.

“I was turned against my will,” Kyrell suddenly revealed. “Necromancers are the products of outside interference.”

“You mean-?”

“Murder. Sacrifice. Rituals performed by others.”

Drayce felt unfathomable despair. “That’s…”

Kyrell’s arm around his shoulders pulled him closer, pressing him against his shoulder. His forehead resting against Kyrell’s chin tenderly. “Best not dive too deeply within this world, Drayce. Not yet. Maybe when I have become stronger.”

It…didn’t make any sense. Nothing made sense. Who was Nukpana? Why did he search for him? And Sephtis? Why did that name cause such hatred and distain from Kyrell? More importantly; what did Drayce have to do with anything?

“I-I don’t understand,” Drayce stuttered out. “Why are you being so gentle with me? You act as if you know me.”

Kyrell squeezed his shoulder. “I have my reasons. I am no threat to you, Drayce, that I can reassure you of. I would never do anything to hurt you. Ever.”

But…what was so special about him?

“You best rest. Your guild is searching for you. And, tomorrow, you must return the cauldron to the museum. And restore the resting place of Sir Chevell. So, be at rest for now.”

Despite himself, with his head resting against Kyrell’s shoulder, Drayce’s eyes slipped closed.

And he fell asleep.

#Etrian Odyssey #etrian odyssey 5 #fanfiction #the necromancer's cauldron #the treasure seeker

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writersfantacy · 14 days

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A melody

Every day, I hear a melody that captivates me; the hands that bring it to life on the piano are truly mesmerizing. It conveys deep emotion, overwhelming me each time I listen. It seems as though the pianist wants to express various meanings. I long to see and meet him. Maybe one day, that opportunity will arise, and I might have the chance to meet this artist.

- Elise

I penned this in my journal while awaiting the replay of his melody; ah, this unknown man has captured my heart. I said leaning against my desk.

"Are you daydreaming again?" Theodore asked, sporting a foolish grin while leaning against the door frame. His mere presence was enough to infuriate me.

"No, I was just thinking. What do you want?" I asked, standing up straight.

"I'm going to London next week, so I was wondering if we could—" he began, scratching the back of his head, cheeks flushing with heat.

"No, I'm busy. Furthermore, you're really annoying," I said, heading straight for the shop.

He started following me. He never listens. I've rejected him quite a few times. The only person I'm interested in is that unknown pianist. He knows this, yet he remains persistent.

"Come on, Elise, I might not come back for a long while after this one. At least have an ice cream with me," he said, holding my hand and turning me to look into his eyes. One thing I hate about him is his eyes; they express so much emotion. Right now, I see hope in his eyes.

"Who wants you back?" I retorted, pouting and clutching my journal close.

"You do. You might deny it, but deep down, you'll miss me. Otherwise, you wouldn't send letters pleading for my return," he said with that boyish grin. It's true, I care about him, but love him? He's been with me since I was four, and since then, I've endured the pain of putting up with this man.

"Fine, just ice cream, but only because you insist so much. And don't take this as a sign of advancement. I still like the pianist. He has my heart," I said, twirling around, lost in thoughts of his new melody.

"Why do you like that man so much? You don't even know him. And what kind of man doesn't go to war but plays the piano all the time, even at midnight?" he asked, seemingly offended.

"Who said? Being able to play the piano is an art, a rare skill. It's another form of expression. It can convey so much without a single word. And I think it's attractive," I countered.

""Really?" he asked, looking quite astonished.

We strolled by the garden after enjoying some ice cream. I sensed he wouldn't just let me leave after the ice cream. I felt a tinge of sadness about his departure, but I kept that to myself.

"What's your favorite tune or song?" he inquired abruptly, turning to me.

"That's quite sudden. Well... I like 'Für Elise,'" I replied after pondering a bit.

"Hmm... You're boring. Don't you listen to any new songs? What kind of woman are you?" he teased, chuckling in an attempt to rile me up.

"You lack any appreciation for art, so please, spare me the nonsense," I retorted, playfully hitting his shoulder.

"Ouch, you hysterical woman. How have I managed to put up with you all these years?" he exclaimed dramatically, bursting into laughter.

I returned his pout, and after a while, he dropped me off at my house; it was quite late. Before going inside, I decided to bid him farewell, knowing I wouldn't see this crazy man for some time.

"Hey, don't die," I said, looking at him.

"Before marrying you? Nah," he replied with a grin. He's truly irritating.

"Who said I'd marry you? Don't be ridiculous."

As soon as I said that, he hugged me. Unexpectedly, tears welled up in my eyes.

"Okay, okay. Now go. I need to rest," I told him, cutting him off. I didn't want him to see me cry.

After Theodore left, I went upstairs to freshen up, hoping he would return safely. That thought consumed me.

I couldn't sleep well, insomnia creeping in. All I wanted was a melody, his melody.

Then I heard piano playing—a familiar tune, very close to my house. Surprised, I got up. It was "Für Elise." I ran outside in my nightgown, following the sound to the garden behind my house. What I saw left me stunned. I couldn't hold back any longer and started crying. There was Theodore, playing "Für Elise."

It had been him all along—the unknown man I had fallen for. It was always him. I felt wronged; why hadn't he told me? Yet, I was relieved it was him. I had hoped it would be. Tears were in his eyes as he finished the last note and stood up.

"Forgive me, Elise. I should've told you, but I didn't have the courage to break your heart by revealing it was me. I know you despise me, and if you had known, you would've despised me even more. But I couldn't keep it in any longer. I couldn't bear the thought of you loving someone else, even if it was secretly me," he said, unable to continue, looking down at the ground, ashamed.

I ran and hugged him. "Shut up, you idiot. I'm so happy it's you. I love you too."

#fantasy romance #love #hate love #original character #my fic

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doctorhelena · 2 years

Text

Steggy Fic: All I Want For Christmas

This is my very belated @steggyfanevents Steggy Secret Santa gift for the fabulous (and very patient) @3pirouette . Here it is, all 9 chapters and 22.6k words in one fell swoop! I hope you enjoy it, and I’m very sorry it was so late!

Summary: Perhaps this was what settling down looked like, to them.

Rating: PG-13

Read it on A03

Excerpt:

December 25, 1949

“Well,” said Peggy, surveying the damage, “I can’t say this is quite how I’d imagined our first Christmas together after the war, but it is rather fitting, I suppose.” And suddenly, she and Steve were both laughing so hard that they had to lean against each other, tears rolling down their cheeks.

“I love you,” he managed.

“That's rather a good thing,” Peggy said wryly.

---

It had all started so promisingly.

Steve had appeared unexpectedly on Peggy’s doorstep the previous August with a wild tale of time travel, adventure, and the somewhat disquieting news that another version of himself was currently hibernating in the arctic, not destined to be rescued for another sixty two years.

“Even if we could find him, we don’t have the technology to defrost him safely,” he’d told her soberly, her third cup of tea growing cold on the table between them. “And - the Ancient One says he’s needed in the future.” He looked down at his cup, then back up at her. “She also says that when the time is right he’ll be free to make the same decision I did. He can go back, start another branch timeline. Stay with another version of you, if she’ll have him.”

“If she’ll have him!” Peggy had said, indignantly, and stood up to show him exactly how ridiculous it was to even suppose that she might not.

That had been perhaps, in retrospect, her first mistake.

---

Their first priority, they both agreed, was to rescue Bucky, followed by tackling the relatively more complex problem of Hydra’s infiltration of SHIELD - the fledgling agency Peggy, Howard, and Phillips had already put so much work into, and which Peggy was not about to let go without a fight.

And then, there was the matter of Steve himself. Did they want to reveal his return to the world at large? To a few selected people? Or to nobody at all? Despite all the knowledge Steve had brought back from the 21st century, they were creating a brand new timeline. The world was their oyster. Anything was possible.

The first confirmation of this arrived unexpectedly in late September, when Peggy abruptly began to sleep through her alarm every morning, entirely lost interest in breakfast, and was very nearly reduced to tears at work twice in a single week.

“You said that the older version of me you met in the future had - that she’d had children,” she ventured tentatively one evening, after nearly two weeks of feeling constantly on the verge of a monthly that, aside from a little spotting, had never actually arrived. “When - when was that?”

“Yeah, she had two kids in the mid-50s,” Steve said, only half-concentrating on the conversation, the rest of his attention on the map of Russia he was marking. “A boy and a girl. But that doesn’t mean you and I will - ” he trailed off, staring at her. “Oh.” His eyes widened. “Oh, crap.”

“Oh crap, indeed” Peggy agreed dryly, and he flushed.

“I didn’t mean that the way it sounded.”

She sighed. “Twelve years in the future, Rogers, and you still haven’t learned how to talk to a woman.”

Read the rest on A03

#steggysecretsanta #fanfic #steggy #my fic #3pirouette

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xmalfoyweasleyx · 3 years

Text

No future with a boy like this - F.W

Summary: Fred disappoints you more than once, giving you no other choice, you had to let him go.

Warnings: ANGSTY, cursing, implied sex very briefly, FLUFF AT THE END

A/N: my firsts time writing angst and I really don’t know if i was overdramatic or not enough dramatic lol please give feedback

April- 1996 - Hogwarts

Y/n was waiting on the tribune next to the quidditch field. It was already getting darker now. An orange glow spreading over the field. The sun was going down already. She was sitting there for two hours now.

She promised herself she would stop waiting after an hour but here she was, still hoping he would show up.

It was her birthday, it was her fucking birthday. And this wasn't the first time. It started with little dates, he forgot them sometimes but y/n didn't mind, he made it up every time.

He hurt her by forgetting those things all the time. But it was Fred Weasley after all. You knew this was coming when he became your boyfriend. You even got used to it. He was always busy. That's just how Fred is.

And here she was again. Trying to not let the tears of disappointment fall down on her cheeks. She felt miserable and decided to finally call it a night, going back to her dorm. She was exhausted.

Walking down the corridors, she saw Fred. He was just sitting there, laughing with George. That's when it was clear, he wasn't even late, he just forgot.

He saw her and smiled, walking her way, but she turned on her heals immediately. "Y/n!" he screamed confused. He followed her and his long legs made it easy to catch up.

She didn't answer, finding it much harder to hold back her tears now. "Y/n? Hey? What's wrong?" he asked.

Y/n stopped abruptly. "You really don't know?" she hissed.

A confused look formed on his face. "What do you mean"? he stammered. A tear fell down her cheek and his face was full of guilt now, without even knowing what he did.

"You forgot", you snapped, "again!"

He was thinking for one minute. It really took him one minute. What was wrong with that boy?!

Suddenly a wave of realization hit him. "Fuck." he squealed.

Y/n didn't need this shit right now, and ran away before he could say something. Making him run after her. "NO y/n wait! I'm so sorry, I won't forget next time, I promise, I'm so sorry" he begged while grabbing her arm, pulling her closer to him.

"You say that every time Fred" she sighed, another tear fell down.

It broke Fred's heart. It really did. He didn't mean to forget this things, he didn't want to hurt you. His mind was just so full all the time. So many things were going on in those brains of his.

"I mean it, I'm sorry, I love you y/n" he assured.

And she fell for it, like she always did. It happened every time. Fred said things that made her melt, and she forgave him. It was nothing new. Because how could she not? The sweet boy didn't mean to hurt her, she knew that, everyone knew that.

But still, her friends warned her. There was no future with a boy like this. It couldn't stay like this. So she swore to herself this was the last time. She made that clear to Fred too.

Because what if he's the love of her life? Her future? This was her last year after all, y/n’s future was right in front of her. What if Fred was her future? You both couldn't give that up.

May- 1996 - Hogwarts

Everything was alright.

They were okay.

And Fred hasn’t been late for a whole month, sounds like nothing special but to him and her it was.

This weekend y/n was going home, and not just home, but with Fred.

After a year it was time for him to meet her parents. Fred claimed he was the perfect son in law, so he didn’t hesitate to agree. Y/n was nervous and excited at the same time.

Ready in her dorm, with a portkey, she had her favourite sundress on. She was waiting for Fred but he didn’t show up. Okay it was only 15 minutes now, but with their little history it made her nervous. She was absolutely sure Fred wouldn’t forget this. He can’t forget this.

20 minutes later she was still waiting.

No. This couldn’t be true. It just couldn’t be.

And then, she found a note under her potionsbook. After reading only one word, she was already furious, a growing heat filling her cheeks.

Dear y/n, love

I remembered. I swear. But I just won’t make it. I’m not feeling okay and I think I might have a fever or something. I don’t want to make you or your parents sick, so I’m staying in my dorm.

I love you, kisses Fred x

She didn’t really know what to think. She was so disappointed, again.

But she could’t blame her boyfriend for feeling sick. Although she had her doubts, what if this wasn’t true, maybe he lied because he did forget it?

No, no, she had to trust him. Fred wouldn’t lie to her. So she grabbed the portkey and went to visit her parents.

Alone.

When she traveled back to Hogwarts it was late already, past midnight. Y/n hoped Umbridge wouldn’t catch her.

The corridors were empty, completely silent. This was not unusual. Most of the students were already asleep this late on a Sunday.

Unexpectedly, she heard gigles and laughs coming from around the corner. Did it come from the library? It couldn’t be. Not at almost 1 am.

She went closer to listen. Y/n placed her ear on the door. Was it... Was it...? No. No.

Did she hear Fred’s voice?

She really hoped she was just imagining this. Maybe she should trust Fred more.

But just checking won’t hurt right?

So she tried to open the door. It was locked.

“Alohamora” she whispered.

What she saw broke her heart into a million pieces.

Angelina sat on a table, with Fred extremely close to her, giggling. George and Lee were there too.

She couldn’t believe her own eyes. Looking silently in Fred’s shocked ones.

“Fuck” he sighed. “Y/n-“ he tried.

But she cut him off before he could say anything. “No, I don’t wanna hear another silly explanation from you, it’s enough, I don’t want to see you ever again” she screamed with tears in her eyes, making her vision blurry.

Y/n ran away, faster than ever so Fred couldn’t catch up this time.

“Stop!! Stop!” she heard him scream behind her.

She ran and ran, not even knowing were to.

“Let me explain” another scream followed.

That’s when she ended up in a corridor she didn’t know. A dead end. Ofcourse.

She gave up and stopped. Fred ended in front of her, breathing loudly, trying to catch his breath.

“Baby I-“ he tried

“Don’t call me baby, this is over” y/n cut him off.

Fred was speachless, for the first time in history. He didn’t realise this truly happened. He knew what he did wasn’t okay, but he never expected her to actually broke up with him. It just didn’t occur in his mind this was a possibility.

“But.. but...” he stuttered. “I swear, I can explain, what you’ve just seen, it wasn’t what you think it is. I’ve told you about the shoppe George and I want to open, right? It’s actually going to happen. We’re leaving hogwarts. That’s what we were doing, we were planning things. Tomorrow we’re going to blow up Umbridge, no not literally blow up, but with lots of firework! And then we’re going to open the shoppe together. It’s my dream y/n!” he rambled excited.

Y/n sighed. Understanding why he did this, but it didn’t change a thing.

“That actually makes things worse Fred. I’m happy your dream will come true. But you’re leaving and I’m finishing my year. When are you going to have time for me if you run a shop? You didn’t even have time for me now.” she cried.

Both of them were crying now. Knowing the break up was really going to happen. Fred wanted to keep fighting. But he knew she might be right.

A little sob left his mouth, something he never did before. She was right. He truly loved her but he couldn’t give her the happy future she deserved. He wasn’t right for her, he didn’t treat her the way she should’ve been treated. And the idea broke him. And that’s when she walked away.

They didn’t see each other again afterwards.

The next day, y/n laid in her bed when she heard fireworks, knowing what happened. She couldn’t go outside and watch...

Happy screams and laughs filled the castle. And that’s when she realised Fred and George were gone now. It was reality now. They won’t come back. Although a little part of her hoped they would stay. A little part of her thought Fred would come to her, begging her to stay with him. But she guessed he just didn’t love her enough.

After all the times Fred broke her heart, she was kind off used to it. But those heartbreaks couldn’t ever overcome this one.

August - 1996 - Diagon Alley

The summer was almost over, y/n graduated two months ago. The heartbreak still hurted but she was better now. She still didn’t know what to do now that she’s graduated.

Hermione decided you two had to go shopping. “It’ll make you happier” she stated like it was an actual fact. Y/n couldn’t say no of course.

Y/n’s breath hitched. A big clone of Fred’s face right in front of her (or George). This had to be their joke shoppe. God, it was more impressive than she expected. Guess you should never underestimate the twins.

“Let’s go inside y/n!” Hermione announced excited, grabbing her arm trying to puch her inside.

“Oh no no no no no, I don’t think that’s a great idea” she hesitated.

“Don’t worry, it’s so busy, Fred won’t see you” she promised her. Y/n sighed. She really didn’t want to go inside. She’d love to see the shoppe, but seeing Fred...

Whatever, it was true. It was so busy so Fred won’t ever notice her.

They entered, y/n was surprised, it was wonderful. Fred and George must have worked so hard to get to this point. God, she loved the place.

It brought back memories. All those joke products, most of them were used on her, she remembered. Fred thought it was hilarious to prank her literally all the time, being proud because it was something he invented himself. She couldn’t be mad about it, it made him so happy.

The place even smelled like him.

Y/n took a deep breath trying to gather all of the smell, in hope it would stay in her nose, so she could remember it back home.

She closed her eyes and imagined how it could be, if they didn’t broke up. How she would probably come here everyday to say hi, how she would watch Fred all day doing his job.

And then... she saw him. In his uniform, he stood there proudly on the stairs above her. Smiling happily, seeing all those laughing people because if his work.

He was happy. Fred missed y/n but he was happy. He thought a lot of all the things he did wrong. Although he didn’t really have time to worry.

Y/n sighed, it’s been months. Her heart was glowing inside her chest. She didn’t even feel sad any more. This was what her boyfriend always dreamt of. Her ex-boyfriend.

She turned around deciding it was not smart to look at the beautiful boy, the boy who still made her knees go weak.

Fred’s smell was more vibrant than before now. Almost like he was right in front of me.

Ow, love potions, of course.

Of course she still smelled Fred in it.

“I smell honey, flowers and vanilla soap” she heard a familiar voice whispering in her ear, almost making her jump.

“F-fred, hey” she stuttered, in shock by the fact he’s standing right in front of her.

“You look great, changed your hair” he smiled. It was true, y/n cut her hair a little shorter and decided to give it a lighter colour for the summer. The typical breakup haircut.

“Fred do you want to... talk... please?” she asked, knowing it wasn’t a great idea. She wanted to just run away after she realized what she said.

“We could go upstairs, talk in my appartment”

October- 1996 - Diagon Alley

“Come on darling, George opened up already!” Fred screamed running through his kitchen while jumping, trying to get his pants on. He grabbed an apple as breakfast.

Y/n ran to the kitchen too. “I thought you changed the being late thing” y/n joked, yes they joked about it now.

“You were the one holding me up this time” he smiled adding a wink. “You just can’t resist me in the bedroom” y/n answered daring.

She grabbed him by his collar, pressing a kiss on his lips. “I have no choice with the sexiest girlfriend in the word” Fred grinned, pressing kisses all over your face, making you giggle.

“Baby, you’re wearing your uniform backwards” he laughed.

Y/n worked at the shoppe now too.

When she asked Fred to talk, they actually talked for hours. They talked about what went wrong in their relationship, about what they had been doing in those months they broke up, talked about how they still had feelings,...

And after two hours they made up. Both being happier than ever, deciding they learned from their break up.

Fred asked her to come live in his apartment and work in their shop too. Y/n didn’t hesitate for a moment. She designed their boxes or packages and talked to costumers. But most of all she distracted Fred by rolling her uniforme skirt up and bowing down to ‘grab’ something. Sometimes he took her back to the appartment because he couldn’t hold back anymore.

Y/n now knew, the breakup was necessary. You both learned. And now you’re happier than ever.

Because after all, Fred was your future.

***

#fred smut #fred angst #fred weasly x reader #fred weasley #george weasley smut #george x reader #george weasley #weasley #harry potter smut #harry potter

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rainbow-shine · 3 years

Text

will I find you when the night is over?

@spnprideweek's day 7: free space

basically I just had to write my own fix-it fanfic

Castiel found Dean in the kitchen.

Dean was making what appeared to be a PB&J sandwich, and Castiel was suddenly struck by a wave of longing at the domestic scene. His now human heart seemed to want to explode inside his chest, unable to contain the love he felt for the man who was humming a tune as he meticulously distributed the jelly on the bread.

Apparently satisfied with the sandwich, Dean nodded to himself, filling a glass with milk and grabbing the glass and plate, he turned for the exit, only to freeze when he saw Castiel in the doorway.

"Hello, Dean" Castiel said, breaking the tense silence they had fallen into and trying to ignore the way something inside his chest ached at the thought that it was his fault that things were so uncomfortable between them now.

They hadn't discussed the confession, though it's not like they had the time to do it. When Dean rescued him from the empty, Castiel barely had the energy to share a couple of hugs before collapsing from exhaustion. He had spent the rest of the day asleep and by the time he woke up, he had searched for Dean and found him in the kitchen.

And now they were here.

"Hey, Cas," Dean eventually exclaimed, clearing his throat. “I thought you might be hungry”.

Oh.

Dean had prepared him something to eat and that simple gesture was enough for Castiel to feel his eyes fill with tears. His emotions were difficult to control now that he didn't have his grace, but Castiel tried to regain his composure as soon as he could. Dean's friendship, being able to be by his side and having Dean to love him like a brother was enough. It was.

"Thank you," Castiel said.

"Are you okay, Cas?" Dean asked, stepping back to put the plate and glass on the table.

"I'm…" Castiel stopped for a second, wondering how to explain what he was feeling. The mixture of emotions that the mere presence of Dean elicited in him. “I'm fine”.

"It's okay if you're not fine, Cas," Dean whispered, moving closer to him and raising one of his hands as if to place it on his shoulder, but ended up dropping it. Castiel tried not to flinch at how much he wanted that contact, however minimal. “None of us can understand what you went through, not entirely at least, but we are here for you”.

"I know," Cas replied. “Thank you, Dean”.

Another awkward silence.

Castiel wondered if there would come a time when things could go back to the way they were before.

"Are you hungry?" Dean asked, pointing to the plate of food. “I was going to bring you breakfast in bed, but you woke up before I could”.

Castiel simply nodded.

During the entire time it took Castiel to finish the sandwich, Dean seemed to want to say something, sometimes even parting his lips to speak, but he always ended up holding back. Castiel tried to not feel too miserable at the inevitable rejection of his feelings, reminding himself over and over again that he always knew that Dean didn't love him that way.

"Cas," Dean began and Castiel braced himself for the blow to his heart. “Cas I—”

Dean stopped talking.

Castiel knew that Dean didn’t want to hurt him, after all, it had been Dean who had spent months looking for a way to rescue him from the empty and Castiel didn’t believe that all that effort had been just to reject him in a cruel way. However, that didn't mean that Castiel didn't want this torture to end. The anticipation was almost worse than the rejection itself.

"Will you dance with me?" Dean said unexpectedly, standing abruptly and extending one of his hands towards Castiel, who had to blink several times to understand what Dean had said.

"Dance with you?" Castiel asked, his voice shaking with uncertainty. That sounded like a terrible and at the same time wonderful idea.

"Yeah," Dean said. "Come on, it'll be fun".

Castiel wasn't sure about that, but he had never been able to deny Dean anything, so, with a sigh, he took the hand that Dean was still offering him.

With a smile on his lips, Dean led them to the middle of the kitchen, taking his cell phone and playing a song on low volume, so low that Castiel had to concentrate to even hear the lyrics.

They both stood face to face for a few seconds and Castiel tried to smile, he didn't know what Dean was planning, but he still tried to be encouraging. Dean smiled back at him and closed the distance between them, wrapping his arms around his waist and pulling his bodies together.

Castiel was sure that he had died trying to escape from the empty and this was his personal heaven.

Shyly, not quite sure what were the limits of this, Castiel wrapped his arms around Dean's neck. They both swayed to the rhythm of the melody, looking into each other's eyes and silently saying everything they had never dared to say before. Castiel felt that his heart would stop at any moment from how fast it was beating and that his legs would stop supporting his weight from how much they were shaking.

Dean didn't seem that affected, holding him in his arms like they'd done this a hundred times before. And although Castiel wanted to pull away from him and demand answers, he knew he wouldn't, because this might be the only chance he would have to taste what it was like to be loved by Dean Winchester.

The song ended, but they didn't stop dancing. Castiel took a deep breath before leaning his head against Dean's shoulder, who, in response, only hugged him a little bit tighter.

"I thought I should let my actions speak for me," Dean whispered and Castiel couldn't help but tense. Here it came. “But you deserve to hear this, Cas”.

"Dean?"

"When we first met, I was scared of you. Like, completely terrified,” Dean began. “You were something that until that moment I didn’t believe that existed and that my mind was unable to understand”.

Dean laughed softly.

"But then I started getting to know you," Dean continued. "And you went from being a creature that terrified me to the best friend I've ever had in my entire life".

Castiel felt his breath catch and his brain began to spin at the thousands of meanings this could have. Oh, but Castiel knew what he wanted it to mean. An impossible that no longer seemed to be so.

"You said I changed you, but you changed me too, Cas," Dean finally said, his hands coming up to gently caress his back. “You made me have faith. You made me a better person, because you made me want to be the kind of man you loved. You made me believe that I’m something more than a killer, than a simple tool or a character in a story”.

Tears started running down his cheeks and Castiel did nothing to stop them, but he clung closer to Dean's body, refusing to let him go. This was too much and at the same time not enough. Castiel wanted... oh, how much he wanted...

"You can have me, Cas," Dean confessed and Castiel felt one of Dean's hands tangle in his hair and pull it gently so they could look into each other's eyes again. Dean then gave him the most beautiful smile Castiel had ever seen and said. “I love you too, Cas”.

Nothing, in all his millennia of existence, could compare to this moment.

"Dean," Castiel gasped, a smile making its way to his lips as his hands reached up to cup Dean's face. “Oh, Dean. I love you, I love—”

The rest of his words were interrupted by a pair of soft lips over his.

Castiel felt that entire galaxies were born and died within him. This was everything he had longed for, everything he had wanted. Dean's lips were warm and Castiel, with just one innocent touch, had already become addicted to them. Castiel had convinced himself that just being was enough, but having Dean's love was simply the best thing that had ever happened to him.

When they parted, Dean leaned his forehead against his and gave him another brief kiss before saying: “I'm a very good dancer, huh?”

Castiel gave a laugh that could well have been a sob, pulling away from Dean so he could cover his face with quick kisses, because now he was allowed to do so.

"Of course Dean," Castiel finally said, leaning his head against Dean's shoulder again, this time with the certainty that he would not be rejected.

They danced until the exhaustion made them separate and go to Dean's room to try and get some sleep, both of them knowing that they would never spend a night alone again.

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cozymoko · 3 years

Note

Can I request hcs for shisui with an s/o who depends on him emotionally? Like whenever they’re angry or sad shisui knows just what to say to calm them down?

🗡 Honestly, he adores it. When he falls in love he falls in love hard. Turning from a well-known, frightening Anbu to a soft, powerless puppy who's all over you. Your confiding in him gives him even more of a reason to be all over you.

🗡 Shisui is just content with the impression of you needing him as he's glad to support you. A huge people pleaser, maybe Itachi learned it from him? Shisui is constantly going above and beyond to satisfy those around him. You, my dear, are no different, the effort he puts into you is quite cute, he's very determined

——"Woah–! {Name}, What's wrong?" Shisui shouts, recovering himself from the impact of your head to his chest. "Ah~, I see, you just missed me, huh?" The color change in your face was enough of an answer for him.

🗡 If he can do something, anything, to make you smile. That's what he'll do. There are few things out of his capability that he can achieve just for you. If you smile, he smiles; If you're happy, he's happy. If it's what you need he'll make a fool of himself all for that sweet smile that keeps him going. Shisui values your happiness more than anyone else's.

🗡 Let's hope he'll never catch you in tears because his protective mod is abruptly activated. After consoling you and undoubtedly finding a way to make you laugh. Preferably tickling you to death or maybe blowing on your skin to produce some strange sounds. He'll be prompt to stay by your side, locking his arms securely around your waist, resting his head atop of yours. It's heavenly!

——"Hey, look at me. Everything's going to be okay." Shisui said, stroking your hair, watching you with a small smile.

——"But I...But I..." He shushed you, sweeping your tears from your cheeks. Although he's in no way a sadist but seeing you with rosy cheeks, and an unintended pout really gets to him.

🗡 If you're angry it's most likely not at him. It's so hard to stay mad at him even when you are, he always seems so helpless whenever you are. He has no problem admitting when he's wrong though if that's not the case he hopes you trust his judgment. But if you're upset with someone else, they won't be an issue since he'll have a little "chat" with them.

🗡 It'd be a lie if he said your behavior didn't start to grow on him. Unexpectedly he'll "need" to see you at least ten times a day, in between jobs, of course. He cares so greatly about anyone he's in a relationship with and just craves for them to rely on him and his abilities.

——"Uhm, Shisui don't you have work? You shouldn't be here!" You sough, gawking at the male sitting in the open window.

——"I know, I know, I'm just passing by," The Uchiha smiles, quickly pecking you on the lips. "Cya!"

🗡 Since he's usually busy there are days where you don't speak at all. Shisui Is always thinking about you and realizes where he stands in your relationship. So just to make it up to you he'll slip into your room, laying next to you on your shared bed. Once getting comfortable he'll forever whisper, "Sorry for being late." Before giving in to his exhaustion.

#naruto imagines #naruto headcanons #naruto shippuden headcanons #shisui x y/n #shisui headcanons #x reader #yandere x darling #yandere imagines #yandere naruto headcanons #shisui x reader #yandere shisui

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crescentsteel · 3 years

Text

Burns

pairing: Suna x f!reader genre: fluff with slight angst (childhood friends to lovers) wc: 3.8k summary: you planned to confess to Suna on Valentines day. Unfortunately for you, he finds the holiday stupid.

[a/n]

Did this in one sitting, brain went zoom zoom

Not really comfortable writing for Inarizaki for some reason. Suna and Miya twins stans, don’t come for me.

Thank you @tokyosdawn, @luvnami, @fayeiparis (my ride or die ily) for the betaread.

ngl. I almost wrote smut after the fluff

Happy Valentines Day! 🖤

This is it. This is the day.

You’re finally going to confess to Suna.

You have been close friends for so long, and for the whole duration of it, you have tried your utter best to feel only as such.

You became friends with the rest of the Inarikazi team because you were always present in every game, with you being the loudest person to cheer for Suna leading everyone to pester him until he introduced you to them. Knowing Suna, he wasn’t fazed by his team’s persistent request and never mentioned to you that the team wanted to meet you.

It had been Atsumu that day who approached you during lunch break saying that Suna asked him to ask you to attend their practice after class.

You’ve been asking him non-stop if he can come watch them practice but he strictly prohibited you from going to the gym at all, so you were thrilled that he finally let you watch.. only to find him unpleasantly surprised that you were there.

Apparently, the whole team thought you were dating. As much as you wish you were, you could only agree with Suna when he said you were just a long-time friend.

But that changes today. Hopefully.

You already know what confessing to him means, and you’re not ready to lose Suna as a friend in case this doesn’t work out. However, with the both of you being third years already, it was now or never. You keep asking him what his plans after graduation are and he’s infuriatingly very consistent with his answer - a shrug and an apathetic ‘dunno.’

While you’re not ready to lose your friendship, you’re probably going to after high school — which is why you spent almost all of your allowance to buy ingredients to make homemade chocolate. It’s not actually that it’s expensive — you wasted so much ingredients making them that you ended up having enough for only three pieces.

But you’re satisfied because they were of three different designs. Three cute fox-shaped chocolates of different colors. They weren’t perfect but you tailored them according to Suna’s taste - just mildly sweet so he can actually enjoy it.

You smile into the February air.

You really aren’t sure about his feelings for you, but you know that you’re special to him.

You’re his only female friend and despite his aloofness, he actually spends time with you outside of school. It was you who he spent New Year’s with. He celebrates your birthday even if you know he’s not really into that kind of stuff. He walks you home when you stay late from club activities.

Being his friend since elementary school, you know he’s not the kind of guy to be nice to someone just for the sake of being nice.

So instead of dreading for your confession, you’re actually excited.

On your way to your first class, the chaotic twins block your path with a mischievous grin from both of them, except Atsumu’s way too obvious and upfront about it.

“So, y/n. Anything for me?” Atsumu asks as he cocks an eyebrow at you.

“Why would she give you any, idiot?” Osamu glares at Atsumu before turning to you with a smirk that makes you wary for some reason. “When she’s obviously giving them to Suna,” he adds.

You try to not look affected at his spot-on statement, but shit, you can already feel your heartbeat just a bit faster. Are you that obvious?

“Don’t you have hoards of shit from other girls? Why the hell are you ganging up on me?” you ask instead of answering Osamu’s speculation.

“I want to show them to Suna during practice. His pretty little childhood friend givin’ me homemade chocolates,” Atsumu teases animatedly.

Your eyes widen from what he said. “Wait, how did you know they were homemade?”

The two give each other meaningful looks before Osamu leans down a bit on you. “So there really are chocolates, huh?”

You go rigid when you realize you’ve exposed yourself to these two. Shit, they’re going to tease you non-stop about this. Worse, they might tell Suna before you even get the chance to do it yourself.

“Those are some burns on your hands, y/n. Have you treated those properly?” Atsumu eyes your hand that accidentally touched the hot pan yesterday. You tug the sleeves of your uniform lower to cover the purple-pinkish marks.

“I’m going to be late for class, bye,” you abruptly bid goodbye and hurriedly escape from the two. God knows what else they’ll get from you if you stay longer.

You erase your encounter with the twins from this morning. You can’t buckle down now. You worked hard for this day, both in body and in spirit. You’ve already had more than a fair share of doubts and second thoughts up until last night when you successfully pushed any cynicism away.

You won’t back down, especially when Suna is just a seat away from you now.

“Got any chocolates yet?” You prod at the topic as you put away your used cutleries.

“Yea,” he answers lazily. “It’s so dumb.”

“What is?” you ask with a frown.

“Valentines,” he deadpans. “Atsumu’s gonna get a fucking diabetes from the amount of chocolates he took from me because I was about to throw them away.”

You try to not let it get to you and breathe steadily to strengthen your resolve. You’re special to Suna. Surely, he won’t treat yours like that.

“What’s more idiotic is confessing this day,” he rambles on. “If a person really likes someone, why wait for Valentines to say it?” He asks rhetorically while putting away his own finished lunch.

You feel your stomach lurch, like riding down a rollercoaster at full speed unexpectedly. You try your best to mold your face into an impassive expression to not give anything away.

On the inside though, you’re a mess. Your head feels too loud and the air feels too heavy. You want to close your eyes and disappear.

Then he looks at you. “What about you? Did you give chocolates to anyone?”

You vaguely hear his question. You feel like you’re in a bubble and every sound is muffled -- your classmates chattering, the chairs scraping against the floor, the laughter all around you feels distant.

You planned to give him the chocolates you worked so hard on, but definitely not anymore. He hit two things right (Or wrong? Who knows anymore.) on the marks and right now, you do feel idiotic for trying so hard.

You should’ve known better. Of course, he’d find it stupid! He’s never the person to be all excited with events like this. What were you even thinking, spending all that money and effort when he obviously thinks the whole thing is a farce?

Did you really think this was going to go well? That he’d accept your chocolates and everything would be fine and you would go on as friends? In hindsight, there is never going to be a way out of this where you win. It is a stupid idea, and you’re stupid for even thinking about it.

‘Dumb, dumb, dumb, dumb,’ you chant in your head.

“Y/n?”

You flinch and find him staring at you, waiting for your answer. His golden eyes are studying your face carefully. You think you see a little bit of concern there but you brush it off.

“Oh no,” you laugh hesitantly. “No way I’d waste my time on some boy on the very rare chance that he actually likes me back, pfft.” Your laugh turns ironic and bitter. “Like you said, it’s just a dumb holiday,” you respond with a forced smile.

“Anyways, I have to go back now. Later, Rin.” You quickly stand up and head to a comfort room because you feel like shit and you need to cry it out before your classes start again, else you’d be tearing up during lecture.

“Wait.” He grips your hand firmly, adding salt to the injury as you wince when he presses the burn you got from yesterday.

“Ow!”

He’s startled by your sudden reaction, but doesn’t say anything.

He loosens his hold and moves his grip to your wrist as he pushes up the sleeve of your uniform, revealing the burn on your hand along with small others on your arm.

“What happened to you?” he asks with muted concern while his eyes are trained on your arm, fingers gently skimming over the burns.

You aggressively retrieve your arm and pull your sleeve back down while you come up with a lie, “Oka-san needed help in the kitchen yesterday.”

He furrows his eyebrows with suspicion. “Why? Everyone knows you’re useless in the kitchen.”

Yeah, but you wanted to do something for him, and the burns would have been worth it if he at least accepted the chocolates you worked so hard on.

“Honestly, I don’t even know.” You try to laugh it off, but you’re losing it already, so you just give him a quick wave with whatever smile you can muster and saunter away from him.

After a pathetic sobbing session in one of the cubicles, you make your way back to your classroom looking as normal as you possibly can.

Thank goodness it’s Valentines. You’re not the only girl with eyes puffy from rejection.

“Hey.” You feel a hand on your shoulder and solely from his voice, you can tell it’s Osamu. “You okay?”

Maybe it would’ve been better if you had fallen for Osamu instead. Despite being always teased by him and Atsumu, he’s actually a nice likeable guy. Unlike Suna.

God, why did it have to be Suna Rintarou?

“Come with me,” you say without looking at Osamu and drag him with you back to your classroom.

“Uhh, okay.” He sounds unsure but he goes with you anyway.

You ask him to wait for you just by the doorway of your classroom and grab the stupid box of chocolates you made from your bag.

You practically shove it to him when you get back to where he is. “Happy Valentines, ‘Samu,” you greet with a dead expression.

Osamu gapes at you then at the box in hand, an expression of disbelief spreading across his face.

“Weren’t you asking for chocolates this morning?”

“That was ‘Tsumu. Also,” he looks closely at the box. “It says ‘Rin.’

You immediately rip out the wrapper where you wrote Suna’s nickname and tuck the crumpled paper in your pocket.

“There. It doesn’t anymore,” you announce passively.

Osamu scratches his head with discomfort. “I can’t accept this, y/n. I can give it to Suna if you want,” he offers kindly.

“Miya Osamu. Either you accept it or I’m throwing it away right now.” Your voice is dead serious and so are you. If Osamu won’t accept it, it’s going to the trash where Suna would’ve tossed it in as well.

“Okay, okay!” He surrenders with panic and opens the box slowly.

“Holy sh-,” he clears his throat. “I mean, wow. These are so cute, the cutest I’ve received today,” he comments appreciatively before returning his gaze at you. “You sure about this, y/n?”

You nod, more convinced now that you saw his reactions towards it. “Yeah. I figured I’d want to give them to someone who’s going to actually like them.”

The soft ring of the bell alerts you that your next class is about to start.

“Thanks Osamu,” you utter with a grateful smile before sauntering back to your classroom.

“Oy ‘Samu, why are these chocolates so cute? How the hell can I eat these?” Tsumu whines.

“You shithead, those are mine!” Osamu rushes to where his twin and grabs the box protectively.

Suna just watches the two and silently waits for another fight to erupt.

“You’d just taste them and give them to me anyways. What’s the deal?” Atsumu asks with a frown.

“If you must know, ‘Tsumu. Y/n gave this to me,” Osamu announces with a condescending grin as Astumu gawks at him in disbelief. “No fucking way, you stinking liar,” Atsumu retorts.

Suna looks at the tiny box Osamu is holding and agrees with Atsumu. There is no way you’d give those to Osamu. You said so yourself this morning.

‘No way I’d waste my time on some boy on the very rare chance that he actually likes me back.’

Did you lie to him and made some for Osamu? Do you like Osamu?

Suna’s mind wanders back to the burns on your hand and arms and how your mom ‘supposedly’ asked you to help out in the kitchen. He knows something is off. You’re never asked to help out with anything that involves cooking, so why did you lie about it?

So what is going on? There’s just no way in hell you like Osamu. Not once have you mentioned liking his teammate enough for you to venture into the ‘horrors of the kitchen’ (as you put it). And more importantly, why Osamu?

It is true that Suna doesn’t give a shit whether or not he gets a mountain load of chocolates on this superficial holiday. He’s not eating them.

However, he’d make an exception only if they come from you. He wouldn’t mind if they’re just store-bought ones as long as they’re from you.

So why the fuck would you go to the troubles of making them for Osamu and not him? You can’t possibly like Osamu. He won’t allow it.

He marches to where the twins are and turns to Osamu. “Did y/n really give you that?”

Both the twins face him and while Osamu looks pensive, Atsumu wears a shit-eating grin. “Aww, Suna. Are you jealous that your beloved y/n gave us chocolates?”

“‘Tsumu, shut up for the love of God. And she didn’t give it to us. She gave it to me.” Osamu pulls the box closer to him possessively which ticks Suna off even more.

“Did she say why?” Suna tries to sound calm despite the stupid jealousy bubbling up the pit of his stomach.

“Obviously because-” Atsumu starts, but Osamu grabs his twin’s face with one hand to halt his babbling as he sighs to face Suna.

“Actually, the box had your name in it,” Osamu admits. “She just ripped it out and said she’d rather give it to someone who’ll appreciate it.”

“-mmmmff Samu!” Atsumu successfully removes Osamu’s hand. “You shouldn’t have told him that! Do you realize that y/n didn’t want him to know?”

“Duh! Of course, I know. But I really can’t accept chocolates that’re supposed to be for another guy,” Osamu sighs before handing Suna the box.

He opens it and sees the fuss Tsumu was making about it. They really are cute and are obviously made with care and precision. If someone else had told him that you made these, he wouldn’t have believed them.

But there’s something about the chocolates that he can’t ignore.

“Why are there bites on the two pieces?” He asks as he lifts his gaze up from the chocolates.

Atsumu puts his hands behind his head and starts whistling as he avoids Suna’s gaze while Osamu smiles apologetically.

“Sorry, I wanted to see if they taste as good as they look,” Osamu confesses. As for Atsumu, Suna can already tell that the piss-haired setter just couldn’t help himself despite receiving so many already.

“They’re a bit bland, Suna. Tell y/n she needs to improve her baking skills,” Atsumu comments shamelessly which makes Suna scowl at Atsumu’s ungrateful ass. The fact that you made something look edible is already something commendable.

“They’re okay. Just needs a bit more sweetness,” Osamu backs his twin up.

He brings the remaining chocolate that’s still untouched to his mouth.

“What are you two talking about? It tastes perfectly fine,” he states truthfully. It’s just the right amount of sweetness that he’s able to finish it despite not really being a fan of chocolates.

Osamu laughs softly before speaking. “She really did make them for you, Suna.”

That night, you toss and turn in your bed while trying to keep your focus on the movie you played. As entertaining as it is, you can’t fully enjoy it with constantly wanting to smash your head against the wall of your room.

For a good while, you really thought everything would go smoothly and that by the end of today, you and Suna would be more than just friends.

Maybe today is a sign that you shouldn’t push it anymore. Suna said so himself: if someone likes a person, they don’t need the holiday to confess.

So why hasn’t he?

The answer is clear as day and you wish you were blind to see it, but you aren’t.

There had been too many chances for you two to move your relationship forward, but not once had he shown a sign that he wanted to.

He doesn’t like you like that. It’s just you and your delusional head. He doesn’t love you the way you love him. Even with the cute, romantic scene playing before you, you start tearing up.

You grab one of your pillows and bury your face in it, effectively silencing the sob and stopping the tears that are coming as you remember your folly attempt to confess today.

You should’ve been satisfied with the comfort of your friendship. If you hadn’t been so greedy, you wouldn’t have gotten hurt like this.

You hear a text alert from your phone. You open it and see a text from the source of your misery.

‘Come out’

You don’t want to. Tomorrow you can be back to normal around him, but not tonight.

You hurriedly respond with a lie.

‘Went out zzz’

You throw your phone somewhere on your bed and lie down with your pillow still squeezed between your arms while you space out at nothing.

Your thirst brings you back to your senses so you stand up and get to the kitchen. When you come back to your room, you almost scream when you see Suna sitting slouching on your bed.

“What the heck, Rin?! How did you get here?”

“Your mother let me in. Why are you even asking obvious questions?”

You massage your temples as you plan to tell your mom later not to just let anyone in your room even though it’s someone she knows. You might be childhood friends but you’re no longer kids. He can’t just pop in and out of your room anymore like he used to.

“Why are you even here? I said I was out.”

“Your lights are open, dumbass,” he answers, to which you respond with a sigh.

“Didn’t it occur to you that I don’t want to see you?”

He stands up from your bed and although his expression doesn’t change, you feel alarmed from how he’s towering over you without saying anything.

“W-what?” Your stutter betrays your attempt to sound fine.

“Why the fuck would you give Osamu chocolates that are supposed to be mine?”

You gawk at him. He isn’t supposed to know that. That bastard, Osamu! You don’t have a prepared excuse for this kind of confrontation.

“What’s it to you even? You would’ve thrown them away anyways,” you snap back with an accusatory tone.

“Not if they’re from you,” he discloses as his usually austere eyes soften up, holding your gaze. You feel like you’re about to melt.

You feel your heart beat wildly against your chest. Not long ago you had said that you didn’t want to see him, but now that he’s here, you don’t feel like moving. You don’t feel like going anywhere. Everything could be on fire around you but you’d still stay by his side.

But… this is not right. Did you already know? He doesn’t love you back.

You try to turn away to hide the gnawing pain in your chest, but he’s faster. He grabs your arm to pull you closer. When he dips down to claim your lips while his arms snake around your waist, you melt within his hold.

His lips are so warm and uncharacteristically tender as he moves them intricately against yours, causing you to place both hands against his chest to feel him even more, to feel that he is real and not just a dream induced by how badly you yearn for him.

He pulls away a bit and finds a bewildered look on your face that just makes you look adorable. There had been many times when he thought about doing this, especially whenever you’re staring into nothingness with parted lips as if coaxing him to fuck everything else and just cross the boundary of your platonic relationship.

But to be honest, he didn’t like the complications of being in a romantic relationship with you when you already have this comfortable friendship. At the end of the day, he knows you have him and he has you.

Yet, he absolutely despises the idea that you might have liked someone else. He’s never felt any resentment towards his teammates, not even to Astsumu who’s a fucking handful most of the time.

Only today.

Only when he saw that box of chocolates in Osamu’s hands that he realized that he didn’t want to share you with anyone.

It was selfish of him, wanting to keep you to himself but not really doing anything to actually make it happen.

That changes tonight.

He removes one hand from your waist to hold your hand that’s resting on his chest.

“I love you, y/n.”

You blink twice at him, evidently surprised with his confession, but immediately recover when you look down and giggle softly.

When you look back at him again, your eyes are a mixture of content and mirth. “I thought you said it’s idiotic to confess on Valentines Day,” you remind him with a wide smile.

His loving stare becomes a cold glare when you point out what he had said this morning. He didn’t plan to do it today. He just couldn’t wait until tomorrow, thereby forgetting that he had actually told you that. Although, he still believes people shouldn’t wait for the holiday to confess, it just so happened that today is when he decided to do it.

“Fine. I take it back,” he says out of petty spite.

“I’m kidding!” you respond defensively before intertwining his fingers with yours. “Actually, I was about to confess earlier, but you said the stuff about Valentines being dumb.”

“It still is,” he says, undeterred. In his defense, he really hadn’t been expecting you would.

“Right. Yet, here we are,” you state as a matter of fact as you grip his hand tighter.

“Can you answer the damn confession already?” he asks exasperatedly which makes you laugh out loud.

You settle down with an affectionate smile. “Yes, Rin. I love you too.”

He loses his stern expression as he takes your hand to his mouth and kisses it, rubbing the minor burn with his thumb, a reminder that he does appreciate what you did for him.

“Happy Valentines, I guess,” he says before he goes for your lips again.

mlist of other stuff I wrote

taglist (those crossed out can’t be tagged)

@ameliaxo @suikrem @akaashisslave @tsumurai @babythotshq @loving-unicorns106 @flairlust @geektastic84 @anaiss97 @hqbeesun @megatron-1199 @lovershaikyuu

#suna fluff #suna x reader #suna angst #suna rintarou #haikyuu fluff #haikyuu angst

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spilledkauffie · 3 years

Text

Acceptance

Pairing: Din Djarin x Reader Word Count: 1.3k T/W: Din has inner anxiety, but then fluff! A/N: Just a random scenario that came to mind, thought I’d share, hope you enjoy!

You were busy punching in the new destination coordinates while Din was down in the bay, shedding the Beskar. He usually opted to take at least the armour off while you were going to be in space for a few days. It was a very homey and personal feeling seeing Din walk around in his more “casual” outfits. You loved that he felt so comfortable around you. Beyond that, the fact that he showed his face to you was even more heart warming. It was a moment you didn’t push, nor pressure, but welcomed warmly when Din decided it was time. However, you still accepted his choice to wear or not wear the helmet, you understood it was habit and it was not an easy thing to adjust to for him, especially when you were literally the only exception.

You nodded, double checking the map, before heading down to the bay.

“Hey Din,” you said letting go of the ladder as you walked towards him, he had his back to you as he was retying a boot string, his helmet to the side of him, “I set the map to-”

Din startled hearing your voice coming closer, he stood, immediately taking his helmet in his hands as he spun on his heels to face you. He had begun lifting the helmet up to cover his face, but stopped when he realised it was you. He lowed his hands and swallowed harshly, heart starting to beat faster. His swift sudden actions had caused you to stop in your tracks, a little uncertain for a moment.

Din noticed you glance down towards his hands that had instinctually reached out to grab his helmet as soon as you walked in. He fidgeted, not sure how to respond to what just happened, or if he should say something. His fingers were still clutching the metal rim of his helmet as you stood there. Now looking to him directly your eyebrows knit together as you nodded with soft eyes, turning towards the ladder back up to the cockpit.

As soon as you turned away from him, Din gently squeezed his eyes closed, brows naturally furrowing as a response, guilt washed over him. He could hear you climbing the ladder, until a footstep on the metal floor above resounded. Exhaling a long held, disappointed sigh, Din sat down again. He kept replaying what he had done a matter of minutes ago-- he acted so fast he didn’t even think about what he was doing and what it must have seemed like to you.

He felt something he hadn’t in a long time; there was a dull, sting in his eyes, it felt like small prickles. He’d trained for so long to ignore this, to push it down, but this time he didn’t even make an effort to deny it. He stared at his helmet in his hands, suddenly the silver edges became blurry, the black slits fogged and for once from the outside, abruptly, and unexpectedly even to himself, Din threw his helmet across the ship bay, needing his hands to bury his face in.

He kept his hands over his eyes for a moment, trying to find comfort in the darkness, but he couldn’t ignore the heavy tears that still fell along with the pounding in his chest, it felt tighter than usual. Brushing his hands up to his hair, he pushed back his dark waves. Keeping his eyes closed, he couldn’t help but think how he was hurting you. He had said he trusted you, he had shown you something no one else had seen, yet he still reached to hide it from you.

He imagined how that made you feel, was he slowly breaking the bridge that had taken time and patience from you to build? You gave him no reason to not trust you. You’d been nothing but kind to him, accepting him like a family he never had, loving him like a lover he’d never had, and this was how he repaid you? It was heartbreaking and he felt guilty for it all. Lifting his head he tried to compose himself best he could. He felt the Razor Crest shift into hyperdrive and stood. Knowing you’d be in the cockpit by yourself made him all the more anxious, he feared his absence would send the wrong message, especially after what had happened.

When he made his way up, you were standing over the controls, so he silently took a seat in the passenger chair, until he felt ready. Noticing he had brought his helmet with him again; he swiftly set it on the ground beside him.

“Hey um,” he started, not looking your direction yet, but he could hear you turn to face him, “can we talk?”

When he looked up you weren’t glaring at him, your arms weren’t crossed, rather you were lovingly gazing at him, almost worried as you nodded. Somehow that made it harder.

“What happened down there,” Din started, before swallowing and looking down to his hands he had clasped together, elbows resting on his thighs, “I didn’t mean to make you feel like I don’t trust you, because I do.”

You tilted your head, already seeing where this was going.

“I’m uh- I’m not good at this,” he admitted, almost chuckling at the inadequacy he felt inside, “but...it’s just a habit,” he looked up again, meeting your eyes, “it doesn’t mean I don’t trust you, it doesn’t mean I don’t love you, it doesn’t mean you don’t mean more to me or...anything. I guess it’s just me.”

You dropped your shoulders, stepping closer to him, before you crouched down between his legs, resting your forearms on the top of his thighs. Din straightened, a little shocked at the open affection you were giving him despite all the negative things he had assumed you were feeling towards him.

“Din,” you shook your head as you softly smiled, “that’s not how I took it.”

He tilted his head, slightly confused. Blinking and swallowing nervously again, he was going to start speaking, but didn’t, instead he looked to you, silently waiting for an explanation with furrowed brows.

“I know that you trust me, and beyond that I know that you love me,” you smiled, matching the tilt of his head with your own, “I also know that this is not something that will make or break my love for you, and...I need you to know that.”

His jaw tightened, the feeling was coming back in his eyes again, yet somehow it was different this time.

“You’ve spent years wearing this,” you reached for his helmet with one of your hands and he watched your movement, as you brought it between the two of you, “and I don’t expect you to break that anytime soon, it’s okay.”

“You-you’re sure,” he asked softly.

“I am,” you gave an assuring nod, “because I know that you’re more than just those gorgeous brown eyes beneath a helmet,” you stared up into them, Din chuckled hoarsely at the compliment you used to break the unneeded tension, “Din, I fell in love with you without seeing your face,” you became a little more serious, “and I love you for everything,” you gently pushed the helmet his way, “that you are.”

Shakily, Din took the sides of his helmet in his hands as you reached yours up to caress his jawline whilst you pressed your forehead up against his, “you got that, bucket head?” Din smiled, you closed your eyes, feeling his tears roll over your hands.

Suddenly a new feeling washed over him, drowning out any guilt: acceptance.

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sweetpeasgirl · 3 years

Text

A Northside, Southside Romance | Sweet Pea

Description: Sweet Pea goes to Pop’s when he wants to feel like a normal teenager. He orders a strawberry milkshake and curly fries. Tonight, with his order, he gets something unexpectedly sweet. He gets something he can’t want but does anyway. Tonight he gets y/n.

Word Count: 1.9k

Pairing: Sweet Pea x Female!Reader

Warnings: None

Tags: FLUFF

Sweet Pea walks down the dusky streets of Riverdale after dark. His head is ducked, his hands shoved deep into his pockets. He knows where he's going but that doesn't mean he wants anyone else to know. After all, Serpents don't drink milkshakes. How would it look if one of their toughest is seen drinking a strawberry one in the light of day?

The door to Pop's opens with a welcoming chime. To Sweet Pea's ears, though, it sounds more threatening than cheerful. That's the price of being in a gang; constantly glancing over your shoulder. There have been too many times where he's had some punk try to backstab him. Quite literally, to clarify.

Glancing around the old establishment, Sweet Pea grins to himself. Completely empty. Just how he had hoped it would be. Reaching into his back pocket, he pulls out his wallet. The old man waiting for him at the register is too familiar to not grin again. Sweet Pea, although he'd never admit it, has spent many long nights under this very roof talking to him.

"Sweet Pea? How’re ya’ doing kid!" Pop never fails to set his mind on ease.

The old man peers at him with concern but the smile never leaves his face.

"Rough day," Sweet Pea runs a hand through his dark brown hair, "just taking a lot of crap from all you northsiders lately."

Pop laughs- a big belly laugh- and writes down an order before Sweet Pea tells him what he wants. It's not like it would make a difference whether or not the tall Serpent had answered. He orders the same thing everytime; a strawberry milkshake and curly fries.

"You just need some good food, boy. Go sit down and I'll have someone bring it over when it's done."

Sweet Pea nods, pulling out a ten to pay with but the jolly old man just shoos him to an empty booth. Pop sees a lot more than he lets on. When a kid only has a ten in his wallet- and you live in a place where sometimes the only way to get yourself out of a problem is cash- you don't take the money. What's the loss? Eight-fifty and a home cooked meal? That’s worth it any day.

Sweet Pea, sitting down in the booth, lets his eyes wander all around the retro diner. He's always felt at home at Pop's, more so than in his own home. It's warm with that ‘you belong here’ kind of atmosphere. It's been his hideaway for some time now. Whenever he has a rough day he just sinks low into a booth and lets the world keep going without him for a little while.

Today had been no exception to that. Some arrogant northsider had been running around the southside with a can of red spray paint. Needless to say, the bruise forming under his eye is hard to miss. He wonders why Pop didn't mention it.

"Hey, Pop said these were yours," Sweet Pea's head snaps up at the sound of a sweet voice.

A young waitress, about his age, stands in front of him, a tray with a strawberry milkshake and curly fries in her hands. For a moment he's frozen, staring into the most beautiful eyes he has ever seen. They're wide and bright, nowhere near as afraid as most are when they see him. She has a huge smile on her face; like she's actually happy to be working the midnight shift on a Friday if only because she had wanted to see him.

He feels his shoulders relaxing and snaps himself out of his daze. She's just some stupid northsider. She hates him. He has to hate her. Yet, when she places the milkshake and fries on the table and turns to leave, his eyes never leave her retreating figure. He shakes his head when she disappears around the corner. A northsider and a southsider- a Serpent- would never happen. Especially not with him. Anything star crossed is just too much work for his already hellish life.

He goes to take a sip of his milkshake when he stops abruptly. There, on the whip cream, are two cherries and a piece of red licorice in the shape of a simple smile. What on earth? Sweet Pea can't tear his eyes from the ice cream in front of him, he tries but he can't stop the small grin that forms on his face. He knows the cute waitress from before had something to do with this.

Speaking of which, a musical giggle interrupts his staring competition with the ice cream. He quickly glances up in time to see her half hidden by the counter and a wall that leads to the kitchen. She has a hand over mouth to try to cover up the onslaught of laughs but it's half-hearted; she's genuinely pleased with herself for the little gift she left for him. His heart beats faster when he catches her eyes and she nods her head at him, a breathtaking smile on her face.

He doesn't know why he does it- nor does he know he's doing it until it's done- but he winks at her and mouths a thank you. Her cheeks flame with a blush and her doe eyes widen again before she scurries back into the kitchen. Picking up a fry, Sweet Pea just laughs to himself.

However, those, too, are quick to end. What is he doing? Flirting with a northern girl? That's not only a death sentence for himself but for her as well. But why would that even matter? He doesn't care about her. He'll never care about her. He can't care about her. He talks himself out of it, or at least he tries his hardest to. In the back of his mind, though, he can still see her eyes.

Sweet Pea runs another agitated hand through his hair, glancing out the window and into the night. Beyond the red glow of the diner the stars are shining brightly. Of course, that brings his mind back to the waitress. He sighs to himself, clenching his jaw as his heart thumps much too hard. Nothing is working; this is hopeless.

"Uh," the same melodic voice brings his attention to the same pretty girl who stands once more in front of his booth, "so I'm on my break and I was wondering if I could sit here. I wouldn't bother you or anything I just- this booth has the best view."

Sweet Pea raises an eyebrow at her request but nonetheless answers, "If you want."

"Thanks!"

With that the girl slides into the other side of the red leather booth and leans her head on the window. Sweet Pea watches with visible amusement as she starts tapping out a sporadic rhythm on the table top, wondering where her mind is at this very moment. His is on her, the spotlight now fully shining over the northsider. He can feel the smile coming back again but doesn't bother to hide it this time. Something about her makes him ready to do anything to make her laugh- or to even just make sure she keeps tapping to her own little beat- but he doesn't know why.

"Thank you for the milkshake. Made my night." The words are out of his lips before he can stop them, a light blush to accompany them on his cheeks.

Her head bounces up, the smile already on her lips, "you looked like you needed it. And I finally found where Pop hid the licorice from me!"

This time he laughs out right. He can't help it, the girl is too innocent and beautiful to not lose himself in the moment. He wants to deny the connection that he feels with her, and northside girl, but he can't anymore.

"Why'd he do that?"

She runs a hand over her face, yawning before answering, "because I had a bad habit of giving them to all the little kids who came in here. I couldn't help it! They were so dang cute!"

Sweet Pea watches as she leans her head on the window again, closing her eyes for a moment. She looks as tired as he feels, striking a protective nerve in him. Maybe that's why he pushes his fries towards her. He's not that hungry and he'd rather she ate something. She looks like she could use the energy.

She looks like she's about to protest but Sweet Pea cuts her off, "just eat them, baby."

Her eyes widen but she takes them anyway. In the silence, Sweet Pea takes the time to close his eyes and take a breath. His face is killing him and he knows his knuckles aren't looking much better. He's exhausted but it's not like going home will give him any solace. He has more responsibility there than anywhere else. He just wants to escape for a minute.

"Are you okay?" Her sweet voice- now laced with worry- washes over him.

Sweet Pea glances at the girl sitting across from him. Her eyes look concerned, trained on the purple bruise under his eye. She reaches over the table, her fingertips brushing her over the mark on his face. He holds his breath, his eyes never leaving her as she traces her soft fingers on his skin.

"I'm okay. It doesn't matter anyway." He gently grabs her hand, placing it back on the table.

He wanted her to keep her hand there- he really did- but she had to move it. She can’t get attached to him. He can’t let her.

"Yes it does," the waitress sneakily pulls the strawberry milk towards her, stealing a sip, "you're hurt and that matters to me."

Sweet Pea smiles as he watches her drink his milkshake. If it was anyone else they'd be missing a few fingers by now but he sees the way her eyes sparkle with humour and delight as she sneaks sips. It's adorable. He hates it. Well, he wants to hate it.

"You don't even know my name," he pops one of the cherries into his mouth, winking at her if only to see her burst into color again.

"That's an easy solution," she wiggles her way out of the booth and stands in front of him for the third time that night, much to his amusement, "hi, I'm y/n! What's your name?"

He leans back, stretching his arms across the back of the booth as he takes her in. A yellow Pop's t-shirt, a pair of yellow rubber boots, and two shining eyes. There's no way he can deny the way his heart beats faster looking at her wide smile. He reaches a large hand out, taking her smaller one and shaking it once.

"Sweet Pea. Just call me Sweet Pea."

She giggles and nods her head, causing butterflies to erupt in his chest. She glances to the clock on the wall and lets go of his hand quickly.

"Crap! I'm back on! Hey, I'll catch you around soon I hope. I work Fridays! Bye Sweets!"

He shakes his head, the mirth clear in his eyes, as she scrambles to get back behind the counter. With that he stands up, shooting her one last smile, before walking back into the darkness that abides in Riverdale. He'll deny it to anyone who asks but he knows he'll be back next Friday.

#sweet pea riverdale #sweet pea #sweet pea imagine #sweet pea imagines #sweet pea x reader #sweet pea x you #sweet pea x y/n #sp x reader #sp x you #sp x y/n #sp riverdale #sp imagine #sweet pea riverdale imagine #southside serpents #riverdale #riverdale imagine

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parkers-gal · 3 years

Note

hey honey! how are you doing?

i was wondering if you could write something where the reader is either tom or harrison’s sister, around 19-20 years old, and she hears her brother talking bad about her behind her back and she gets distant towards them and her brother realizes how much he’s missing out on (her first boyfriend and stuff like that)

sorry if it’s long or if you don’t wanna write it lol it was just an idea!!

don’t be sorry! i loved this! also doing pretty good :-)

i didn’t really understand what was in the ending parentheticals so i hope this is what you wanted!

wc: 1.7k

—

Being the established girl in a group of four boys meant a lot of things. Often, you were confused as a girlfriend to whichever boy you were accompanying, aside from your brother, of course. There was a lot of territory that came with being close family-friends with the Holland family. Especially since your brother used to be Tom’s assistant. It was expected, though, because they had been close friends growing up, especially since being in the same grade.

You were younger, which meant you were in between ages for the twins and Paddy. You didn’t consider yourself too young for them, though, and found yourself in the presence of the boys for most of your time.

Today, however, you were with your friend Aisha, walking around the shops. She had to leave unexpectedly early, so you parted ways. You came into the house quietly, setting a few things as you silently made your way into the kitchen. It wasn’t actually your house, but you practically spent all of your time there anyways. You heard voices coming from the den. Though you knew it was wrong, you halted in announcing your arrival, choosing to listen in on what they seemed to be joking around about.

“Finally got ‘er off your back, huh mate?” You heard Tom’s voice, followed with joined laughter from everyone else. Your mind wandered, thinking maybe Harrison had a girl he was interested in, though he never brought that up, so you stayed quiet to hear more.

“Yeah. Out with Aisha or whatever.”

Your eyes widened as the realization dawned on you. You purse your lips and think not to assume anything just yet.

“That her only her friend?”

“Honestly,” Harrison laughs in agreement. “Mum said to be a good older brother but I’m tired of playing babysitter.” They all laugh again and you will yourself not to burst into anger — or worse: cry. “She’s gotta grow up or something.”

“Mate.” Tom snickers. “She needs a life. The boys are a tight circle; can’t let no baby sister in on that.”

“Yeah,” Harry’s voice pops in. “Who else would we spill disgusting secrets to?” They laugh seemingly in universal knowledge.

“Anyways,” Tom settles down. “Good thing we finally got the superior Osterfield alone, for once.”

You abandon your station near the kitchen door and speed walk out the other swing door. You pick your bags up quietly, making for a quick escape as your tears attempt the same. You’re almost done putting your shoes on when Sam comes down the stairs, brows furrowed while he wipes his damp hands on the front of the shirt. You curse in realizing he was probably in the bathroom.

“Y/N? Everything okay?”

“Uh…” You glance to the hallway that leads to the kitchen, wearily hoping nobody comes out. “Yeah, just uh… forgot I had to do something. I’ll see you later.”

You quickly make your way out of the house, shoving everything into your car while you can, starting the engine with great speed. Sam was in the middle of saying something else to you on your wait out, but he never got around to finishing because you were already out of the door.

He didn’t mention anything to the boys, trusting that you were okay and that you did actually have something to do.

That night, you tried not to cry yourself to sleep in your small apartment, one you shared with Aisha. When you woke the next morning, she wanted to go to the skating rink for some fun, so you agreed, eating breakfast before showering. You spent the entire day there, really, and let your phone in a rented locker, ignoring the texts from a few of the boys asking if you wanted to come over for a movie and some pizza.

When you did have the chance to reply — over five hours later — you gave them scarce replies in the main group chat, apologizing without much sorrow. From their end, they shook it off, knowing you probably just had other plans that specific day. The five of you were planning on going to the golfing course tomorrow, so you’d get time together then.

But they were wrong, because you cancelled on them, simply stating that “golf isn’t your mood, today.” They’d accepted that, but Harry knew that was bullshit, because half of the fun of golfing was competing with you.

They tried not to think much of your absence while they were on the field, but it was weird and awfully quiet without you. They’d figured it might be different throughout the week, but they were still wrong. You were with other people throughout the week while you could be, and it only made it worse for the boys because you were posting it all over your social media. Not in a flaunting manner, but just for the aesthetics. They didn’t find it very pleasing, though.

Harrison knew something was off, knew you didn’t normally just start ghosting people unless you had a real reason. He intended on figuring out what that reason was, and Tom was hell bent on learning it too. They drew up a plan to get you to come over, telling you they had a few of your missing things. You complied, figuring you’d have to face them at some point.

Strolling up to the house for the first time in ten days, you opened the door as casually as you could, only to be met with four pairs of eyes staring in your directions from seats in the open living room.

“Uhm,” You cleared your throat. “Where’s my stuff?” Tom wordlessly points to a bag on the head of the couch, and you pick it up wearily, sifting through it while you hummed. “Thanks, I’ll just take this and get out of your hair.”

“Well, wait-” Tom stands abruptly. “Why… why don’t you hang out for a bit?”

“I mean… do you want to?” The tone in which you speak catches him off guard for all of ten seconds before each of the boys are nodding their heads.

“Of course we do.” Harrison smiles and you nod wearily.

“Okay.”

However, you don’t make any move in settling down for the long run, and Tom huffs. “What’s going on here?”

“What do you mean?”

“You’re avoiding us!” Harry concludes. “Why?”

You clear your throat, looking at your feet while your tongue clicks. “I, uhm, I heard you guys talking the other day.”

Harrison raises his eyebrows as a silent message for you to elaborate a little.

“You said you were tired of babysitting me, so I gave you guys some space.” They all physically defeat and you begin to defend yourself. “I just thought it’s what you wanted! You don’t have to explain.” You’re unknowingly beginning to tear up, and they all know it before you do.

“I think we should talk.”

“No, I- uhm…” You glance out the window to your car. “I should really get going.”

“No!” Harry pleads with you. “We just… we miss you.”

You stop short in your tracks, turning around slowly. “Well I don’t really think you get to. Not after what I heard.”

“That’s not fair, Y/N/N, and you know it.” Harrison’s stern with you, and you can feel the tension beginning to set nicely like a creamer.

“None of this is really fair for me, so why should it be fair for you?” You point a finger up in their direction while you shrug offendedly. “I mean, if you’re gonna say one thing don’t act like you don’t mean it.”

“But we didn’t,” Harrison says.

“Really, we didn’t. It was a stupid thing to say.” Tom adds on.

“Yeah, we’d never say it knowing you were there.”

“Oh, but you’d say it if I wasn’t around?” You’re making this more difficult, you realize, but you don’t much care, because when feelings get hurt, things get difficult, and you’ve come to terms with that.

“That’s not what I meant.” Harrison crosses his arm.

“No, but that’s what you implied.” You jab him back with your next words.

“Stop making this hard.” He’s reminding you of what things were like when you were young and arguments were regular.

“I’m not the one that started this.” You huff angrily, hand finally gripping the handle of the front door, swinging it open and slamming it harshly with an “I’ll see you all around.”

Tom blinks, glancing to Harrison in question on what to do next. Harrison sighs and so does Harry.

“I saw her leaving that day she heard you guys.” Sam speaks calmly, almost nervously. “She was- uh… she was crying.” “Oh jesus.” Tom groans, hands running through his curls. “We made her cry, Haz.”

“I know, I know.” He speaks hastily. “C’mon, I know what to do.” He picks his coat up, opening the front door as the rest of the boys follow him out.

You’re coming home that night after spending the rest of your day at the country club with some friends. You’re alone, of course, expecting to eat dinner with Aisha, though the two of you normally dine separately because you’re always with the boys and she’s always with her girlfriend. Things are different now, though.

As you open the door to your flat, you expect to find it dark and empty, but you’re met with your favorite take out meal and four very sorry boys, a large teddy bear sitting on the couch for you. You drop your bags and glance at each of them.

“What’s all this?”

“We’re really, really, really sorry.” Harrison steps forward with an apologetic smile and three DVD disks in his hands, all of your favorite movies. “But me especially. I love having you around… even if you are my baby sister.” You slap his arm playfully and he laughs. You let a smile creep onto your face at his demeanor. “We really missed you this past week.”

You nodded, fiddling with your fingers. “It just… hurt. You broke the one rule I thought…. The rule I thought we all swore to keep.”

“I know.” He sighs, looking at the boys as everyone says it simultaneously. “The circle before yourself.”

You’d seemingly all established it during your first all-nighter as a group of five. You vowed to put them before your own silly ego or public facade. Obviously, some things are harder for others.

“Can you ever forgive me?”

“Can you ever forgive us?” Tom speaks up, eyes deep.

You smile softly, voice laced with feelings. “Of course I can.” You don’t miss the smiles that break out onto their faces, and when everyone comes in for a group hug, they know things are going to be okay.

read the spinoff! - circles before yourselves - rule #2

#harrison osterfield x reader #tom holland x reader #tom holland fic #harrison osterfield fic #harrison osterfield fanfic #tom holland fanfic #tom holland angst #harrison osterfield angst #peter parker #harry holland #osterfield!reader #tom holland x osterfield!reader #reader fic #reader

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robininthelabyrinth · 3 years

Text

Toxicity - ao3

- part 4 -

As the poison slid down his throat Nie Mingjue’s body began to rebel against him, his limbs beginning their familiar thrashing, his spine arching until it nearly cracked, his meridians swelling as poison rather than spiritual energy began to fill them up – his veins starting to burst, one after the other, the agony excruciating –

“Let him go!” a voice roared, the vibration of it deep enough to shake his bones like the rumbling of approaching thunder. He’d never heard that voice before in this life, and yet he knew it at once.

Lan Xichen.

Jin Guangyao’s head jerked back, startled, and he turned with horrified eyes, saying, “Er-ge, wait, listen to me –”

“I’ve had enough listening to you,” Lan Xichen said, and it must be him, even if Nie Mingjue didn’t actually recognize must be his dragon form, too: long and sinuous, shining blue and white, with antlers rising from his forehead, five-clawed and noblest of all creatures – the celestial dragon, the imperial dragon. The dragon that his parents had met before his birth; the dragon, he realized, that had so conveniently helped him win the battle against the Wen sect only a little while ago. Yet his eyes were unmistakable, the same as ever. “I’ve been listening to you for all our lives, A-Yao, and yet it was only in listening this past ke that I think I’ve actually heard what you really think.”

“Er-ge –”

“You don’t have the right to call me that!” Lan Xichen shouted, his voice the boom of a thunderclap when the storm’s center was right above your head. “You lost that right when you murdered the brother we swore our oaths with, all those years ago!”

Lan Xichen advanced forward and Jin Guangyao retreated, step by step, but he still had Nie Mingjue’s head curled in his claws, forcing Nie Mingjue to be dragged along with him in his retreat, body still spasming as he choked on the poison.

“Let him go, A-Yao,” Lan Xichen said. “Let him live. This is between us – the pain and grudges of a past life are nothing to him.”

“You’re the one who brought him back,” Jin Guangyao said. “You – we were happy, weren’t we? Just you and me. We don’t need him. He was always bad for us: angry at everything, always sticking his nose where it wasn’t needed, always judging me…er-ge, you don’t know how it was when you weren’t there! You don’t know how cruel he could be to me –”

“So you’ve been saying all these years,” Lan Xichen said. “I don’t care. Even if A-Jue wronged you in the past, that has nothing to do with him now! He has done nothing to you in this life. Nothing but honor and respect you, speak highly of you and be your friend, and yet it turns out that you’ve been tormenting him – torturing him – ever since he was born!”

“Er-ge…”

“No! I won’t hear it. I don’t want to hear any of your excuses, any reasons. I’ve always supported you, A-Yao, I always believed you when you said that you had no choice but to do as you did, each and every time, when you blamed your heritage or your reputation or – or anything, anything at all, as long as it was someone else’s fault.” Lan Xichen shook his head, and there were tears streaming down his cheeks, clinking as they fell to the ground as the purest of gems. “If Nie Huaisang hadn’t told me why it was that A-Jue was so convinced that he would die young…if he hadn’t told me the whole story of what had happened after I fell asleep all those years ago…you were planning on making me murder him, weren’t you? I heard you just now, you said so yourself. You wanted me to kill him with my own two hands.”

Jin Guangyao’s throat worked, Nie Mingjue could see it with his rapidly fading vision, but he said nothing, his wicked snake’s silver tongue finally defeated by itself.

“A-Yao…is it him that you hate? Or is it me?” A pause. “Do you even remember any more?”

There was more, Nie Mingjue thought, after that, but he no longer had the strength to hold on to hear it. His eyes slowly slid closed, the lack of air and the influence of poison finally overwhelming him, and he knew no more.

His last sight was of Lan Xichen.

And then -

Warm lips pressed onto his, a by now familiar sensation, and Nie Mingjue unexpectedly opened his eyes once more, and his first sight was Lan Xichen standing above him – but not the same. He wore the human form that Nie Mingjue knew so well, the one he’d welcomed to his bed all those times, but not, as he now knew, the reality.

“You’re a dragon,” Nie Mingjue said to him.

Lan Xichen nodded.

“You didn’t tell me.”

“I didn’t think it was necessary,” Lan Xichen admitted. “In the beginning, I only wanted to get to know this new version of you – you were my friend, back then, from childhood onwards, and I always cared deeply for you. I had no illusions that he, you, had returned to me as you once were; the soul may be the same, but the environment in which one is raised shapes the personality just as much. I just wanted to assure myself that you were doing well.”

Nie Mingjue nodded. “And then?”

Lan Xichen sighed. “And then you were – marvelous. Utterly marvelous. From the very first moment we met, you took my breath away.”

“Righteous and unyielding, straightforward and upright,” Nie Mingjue recited, having heard it many times over. Enough to make him sick, really.

“Not just that,” Lan Xichen said, surprising him. “You have all of A-Jue’s innate virtues, his righteousness, his confidence, his quick wit and fearless heart, but not his overweening pride, his rigidity and indiscriminate preference for tradition, his tendency to be aloof and distant and to disregard all manner of mercy and kindness if it interfered with his conception of truth. You’re quicker to anger, less retrained; you’re more thoughtful, more willing to admit your feelings, to accept that you might be wrong, that tradition might be wrong…you’re reckless with yourself, but not with others; you’re careful. Your devotion to justice and truth is just as strong as ever, but you think more about circumstances, about hidden pressures, you don’t take things at face value…” He sighed once more. “I never meant to fall in love with you, in this life. I’d intended for you to carry on living as any other man might. I thought you might get married, perhaps have children…but you won my heart all over again.”

“Were you ever going to tell me?” Nie Mingjue asked.

“Oh, yes, of course,” Lan Xichen said. “As soon as the war was over and we were properly engaged, formally and in the eyes of our family – you pick an auspicious date for a marriage based on the eight characters of one’s birth, after all, and my birth year is…rather idiosyncratic.”

Nie Mingjue couldn’t help his lips from quirking up. He could imagine exactly how Lan Xichen would have managed that inelegant conversational segue.

“Anyway, it wouldn’t have been that much of an issue,” Lan Xichen said. “While I myself was born a dragon, it isn’t impossible for one with the correct bloodline to rise from human to dragon, just as A-Yao – as Jin Guangyao did.”

“The Jin sect…?”

“Flood dragons in their lineage, if you go back far enough,” Lan Xichen confirmed. “Jin Guangyao was the son of one of their sect leaders, and – ah –”

“A prostitute?” Nie Mingjue guessed, voice dry.

“…yes. He saved my life through chance – or at least, I thought it was through chance, back then, and now I suppose I’ll never know. At any rate, I thought he saved my life, so I helped him reawaken his draconic bloodline and brought him to the Dragon Gate, transforming him from human into one of us. It was me that introduced him to you, in our past life, and me who pushed for the three of us to swear brotherhood…”

“It wasn’t your fault,” Nie Mingjue said, already knowing where Lan Xichen’s mind was going. “You trusted him. That is not a bad thing.”

“Perhaps,” Lan Xichen said, although he didn’t seem convinced. “When you were dying in your past life, I realized it at the final moment and came to your side – too late to stop it, but in time to ask you to give me permission to claim your soul, to look for a chance to allow you to be reborn through me rather than left to the whims of the wheel of reincarnation. You agreed, and I carried you with me ever since, right up until your own distant descendants came and begged me to help them have a child.”

“My descendants?” Nie Mingjue asked, surprised. “But I thought – you and I –”

Lan Xichen shrugged. “It was tradition. He was expected to marry and have children, and so he did. He never lied to his wife about it, always honored and respected her. He considered what we shared to be completely different from that.”

“I wouldn’t do that,” Nie Mingjue said.

“I know,” Lan Xichen said, and his voice was warm. “I know. Anyway, I never told Jin Guangyao that I was keeping your soul with me – he never asked about you unless I raised the subject first, which I should have noticed, and at the time I didn’t want to raise his hopes unnecessarily – and I think it came as a nasty surprise to him. It never occurred to me that he might have been the one to kill you back then, nor that he would act against you in this life. If I’d known, I would never have let him.”

“I know,” Nie Mingjue said, and reached to take his hand. “He’s gone now, isn’t he?”

Lan Xichen nodded.

“That’s all that matters, then. I don’t blame you for anything he did.”

“You forgive me?”

“For what? You didn’t harm me.”

Lan Xichen smiled, and Nie Mingjue wanted, as always, to kiss him. “For not telling you the truth soon enough, at least?”

Nie Mingjue shrugged. “May as well blame me for not telling you the story of my eight-year curse sooner. If I had, we would have figured out the whole thing much earlier, wouldn’t we?”

That surprised a laugh out of Lan Xichen. “Yes, I suppose so…I’ve removed most of Jin Guangyao’s toxin from your body. The rest is buried very deep, but that’s nothing I can’t solve, given some time. There shouldn’t be any more pain, not at any time.”

“He was poisoning me,” Nie Mingjue abruptly realized. “When he was Meng Yao – I thought the deterioration was accelerating, but it wasn’t, was it? He was just poisoning me, even as he brought me all sorts of medicine to dull the pain…he must have been laughing at me behind my back.”

“That seems likely,” Lan Xichen said, and he looked sad.

“And now…no pain at any time? Even – my birthday –”

Lan Xichen shook his head.

“I’ve never had a birthday without pain,” Nie Mingjue said wonderingly. “Even on the years when I didn’t have to lock myself in the saber tombs, I usually spent it in my rooms, meditating, to avoid making any mistakes…other people have parties, don’t they? Or – a nice dinner, or something?”

“Yes,” Lan Xichen said. “Yes, most people…most people celebrate. They’re happy to have been born. I’m sorry that Jin Guangyao’s hatred took that from you.”

“You really do need to stop apologizing for things you haven’t done,” Nie Mingjue said. “I’m already tired of it. Consider it my very first birthday wish, other than all of the ones about surviving past the age of thirty-two – which you’ve also granted, by chance.”

Lan Xichen pressed his lips together to keep from laughing, but he was only partially successful. “Very well,” he said. “I’ll let you take advantage of me this one time. For your first birthday wish.”

“Can I have a second one?” Nie Mingjue said, and raised Lan Xichen’s hand to his lips. “Marry me.”

Lan Xichen’s eyes widened. “Mingjue-xiong?”

“I rather liked A-Jue,” Nie Mingjue said thoughtfully. “No one’s ever called me that, but it has a nice ring to it…I’m serious, Xichen. Marry me. I don’t care if you’re a dragon or a lizard; you’re Lan Xichen. I love you, and I want to marry you.”

Lan Xichen’s eyes were watering.

“If you want to help me become a dragon the way you did Jin Guangyao, I’m open to that, too,” Nie Mingjue said. “Though we’d have to find some way to bring Huaisang along, I can’t bear to be without him, and he’ll probably want to bring some of his friends, too…anyway, why shouldn’t we get married now? The war should be over, shouldn’t it? I don’t think Wen Ruohan really wants to fight any longer. He didn’t seem in very good shape.”

“He’s dead,” Lan Xichen confirmed. “He’d taken in too much of Jin Guangyao’s poison – it was strengthening him, but he couldn’t do without it any longer. I think they’d made a deal a long time ago, enhanced power in exchange for the Wen sect so unceasingly harassing yours.”

“A bad deal on Jin Guangyao’s part,” Nie Mingjue observed. “Our families are ancestral enemies; Wen Ruohan would have attacked me for free. We’ll need to find some Wen branch family members with pacifist tendencies to take over the position, assuming they exist…and you still haven’t answered my proposal, Xichen.”

“Oh!” Lan Xichen exclaimed. “Oh, I mean, that is – of course! Of course I’ll marry you! You foolish man, did you ever think, even for a moment, that I wouldn’t?”

Nie Mingjue smiled.

A moment later, he suddenly blanched.

“A-Jue…?”

“Your family,” he wheezed. “The Lan sect – when I asked for your hand in marriage – they all looked so impressed…! Lan Wangji even…he said I was brave…they know what you are, don’t they?”

Lan Xichen covered his mouth. “Oh no,” he said. “Yes, they do. Wangji’s not actually my brother – they all call me xiongzhang, I prefer it to ‘ancestor’. Even Qiren calls me that, and having to pretend in all those discussion conferences that I was his nephew instead kept giving him heartburn…oh no. I really hadn’t thought of that!”

“He sent me a letter,” Nie Mingjue said, starting to laugh. “Telling me – oh – oh, I like him, he was trying to be considerate…now I understand all the references to doing things slowly to account for size…”

“Oh no. He didn’t! Tell me he didn’t!”

Nie Mingjue was crying from laughter now. “Well?” he said, wiping his eyes and waving his hand. “Let me see you, will you? I couldn’t get a good look last time, I was choking on poison, but I need to see exactly what type of mountain the Lan sect thinks that I’ve been climbing.”

Lan Xichen rolled his eyes at him, but the air in the room all shimmered, and the next thing Nie Mingjue knew the room was full of dragon, with its head placed pointedly in Nie Mingjue’s lap like an overly large dog seeking affection.

Nie Mingjue reached out and ran his fingers along the scales of the face, rubbing up against the base of the delicate antlers, and the dragon began making a rumbling sound of pleasure, more vibration than actual audible sound, not unlike a contented cat.

“I love you,” Nie Mingjue said to him, and Lan Xichen looked up at him. “Marry me.”

“I’ve already said yes,” he said, and the voice of the dragon shook Nie Mingjue’s bones in a way that felt positively pleasant.

“I hadn’t asked you as you truly are,” Nie Mingjue said. “I want you to know that the invitation isn’t just for the human face you put on. I want all of you, however unexpected.”

“You have it,” Lan Xichen said at once. “But only if I get all of you in turn.”

“Well,” Nie Mingjue said. “You drive a tough bargain. But somehow I think we’ll find a way to make it work.”

#mdzs #nie mingjue #lan xichen #jin guangyao #my fic #my fics #toxicity

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