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itsagrimm · 1 year

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He Who Comes From Under The Water

Chapter 1 - The Promised Bride

Monster!König X she/her afab Reader

CN sexism & patriarchy, mentions of death, suicidal thoughts, accidental attempted drowning, arranged marriage, choking on water, mention of a human bodies decomposition

eventual smut.

Beta-read by @sandinthemachine and @queenquazar. Thank you both so much for supporting me with obsessing over fairy tales.

Masterlist

“So, you are a king without a queen?” The old man asked while throwing his rod back into the water. “I suppose you require a queen then, eh?”

The king, considering the old fisherman’s words, slowly nodded. “I suppose I do. But where does one get such a fine lady?”

The water below the wooden landing was dark and dirty. Frogs croaked and fireflies danced over the green sludge and water lilies, lively and playful like the flecks of sunlight that reached the surface through the thick forest trees. A pretty scene on any other day.

Not this one.

Your tears had long stopped flowing into the water of the deep pond. Now, you sat there, your hand tangled in the water and your thoughts lost, dark and deep like the water below you.

A few days ago, your grandfather died. A kind old man who had spent the last years of his life close to the warm oven in winter and fishing in the pond in the summertime.

You remembered bedtime stories as a child with sweets sneaked into your hands. You remembered kind eyes who watched out for you as you grew from child to maiden. You remembered worry in those same eyes when your father died in the forest chopping wood, when your brothers perished in a tavern fire, your uncle and your mother succumbing to sickness, and - finally - your cousin breaking his neck after climbing a tree.

Yes, there was a lot of pain in your grandfathers’ eyes. But even more to worry.

The old man had been your last living relative, and most importantly your last male relative.

And now you as an unmarried village girl from a clearly cursed family, had no one who could inherit your family’s house and support you.

It was only time until the village would shun you and chase you away to get rid of all the bad around you.

That is if you were lucky.

You could try to make it into the city where you would live for a while as a beggar or, if you were hungry and deemed pretty enough, work as a whore.

In his last days, your grandfather tried to arrange for a husband, but no one wanted a cursed girl, and so his last words to you were to visit his favorite fishing spot.

You sighed.

Now, you sat on the same spot where your grandfather had sat, catching fish, and gazing over the water.

Maybe that’s what he had meant, you mused. It would be easier to end it all here and jump into the pond only to never return to the surface, drowning your sorrows and yourself with your grandfathers’ blessings. At least you would choose your fate with your chin proudly raised and your dignity untouched, floating into the abyss in your best billowing skirts from the funeral and no more tears left to cry.

As much as that was possible considering your situation.

“It’s a good place to leave this world,” you spoke out loud to taste how it felt on your tongue. It resonated, with the forest, the pond, with you.

“Indeed, it is.”

You twitched in surprise, heart jumping into your throat.

“Who is this?” you called over the water, glancing around for whoever lurked within the trees, hiding between the ferns.

A hand, big and wet, snatched yours from the water and pulled you in with one strong tug.

You wailed in surprise before crashing into the pond and swallowing the muddy green water, gurgling and gasping for air. Something seized you – strong and solid. Instinctually you kicked and punched it.

Was this it?

NO!

Fighting for your life you thrashed around, struggling and trying to free yourself to get back up to the surface. But whoever had you in a hold only dragged you down, carrying you further into the dark.

Your panicked eyes widened, trying to see who attacked you, trying to see anything.

It was dark. Only the dark, green water around you.

No, no, no, no!

Your lungs heaved for air as your heart drummed painfully in your hurting chest.

A second hand twisted around your throat and over your face. Instinctually, you opened your mouth and bit down.

The hands jolted back with a howl reverberating in the water, releasing you from the deadly weight dragging you down. Hungry for air and with burning lungs you swam up with frenzied strokes, pushing through the surface. Gasping and coughing you breathed, feeding your body with much needed air.

Quickly, you glanced around. No one there. Was this someone from the village trying to get rid of you? Did you manage to drag your attacker down with you? Or was it an animal in the water?

Before you could move, something grabbed you again and lifted you a good length out above the water.

You screamed and kicked again only to have your legs and hands fixated in an iron grip.

“Hold still!” A voice commanded you, foreign and vibrating close. You struggled on, thrashing your body against the solid form behind your back, unwilling to take any chances and die here without a fight.

“I said, hold still!” the grip around your limbs tightened, forcing you into stillness. “There, finally.”

Slowly, you turned your head. You were caught in the grip of a dark, green form, pressed against what must be its chest and stared at by sharp, watery eyes from a nearly obscured face from tangled wet hair and a beard.

Who is this? You thought to yourself, still heaving for air.

“Why are you fighting me?” the strange being said, “I’m here to take you in as my bride. Just like I have promised.”

You coughed again, a bit of swamp water and spit running down your chin, splashing onto the being’s arm.

“What?” you cried and with your head still spinning.

“What what?” The large figure snapped back, “The old man asked me to take you as my wife, yet you bite me? Is that how you want to treat your future husband? Do you want me to let you go? I have no need for an unwilling bride.”

You blinked, your body slowing down and your mind starting to think clearly again.

“You nearly drowned me. Let me go!” you cried out as much as your abused lungs allowed.

The figure blinked and instantly dropped you.

With a loud splash you crashed back into the water.

Your body seized and your mind raced, struggling to comprehend and move your body up.

You made a few weak swimming strokes, but it wasn’t enough to move your still tired and abused body up. Water started filling your lungs again and you were about to dr-

Something grabbed you and lifted you. Again.

“Woman!” the strange being cried out in annoyance, “What are you doing?”

You coughed, swamp water from your hair dripping over your face, disorienting you further as you gasped for air.

“Wait, maiden, do you need to breathe?” the strange creature asked, “Make up your mind! I was just trying to take you home, but you don’t want that. So I did like you asked but then you started sinking like a stone back into my waters again, heaving for air!”

You shivered, “Of course I need to breathe! All humans need air, idiot! What kind of question is that?!”

The creature groaned and grumbled, “The old man forgot to mention you are a human. I thought you might be a nymph or a bigger frog lady. Well, that’s just bad luck.”

You snorted, “Oh, I am sorry that me needing air is inconvenient for you! I nearly died down there in those muddy waters!”

“Hey, those are mighty fine waters of mine, thank you very much. Besides, the second time was not my fault.”

“Your waters?” you managed.

“Who else’s waters?” the figure deadpanned as you’d asked the most obvious question, swayed, and started moving towards the landing before carefully putting you onto the planks instead of holding you like a cat holds its naughty young, “Stay. Let me take a better look at you.”

You huffed and collapsed onto the planks out of the wet arms. It wasn’t like you could run anyway with your body still shaky and weak from the near drownings. Instead, you lifted your head for a better look at the stranger as they studied you.

The strange being from the waters was built like a man, but huge and larger than the tallest man you had ever seen. And it had the face close to a man too under all that unkempt hair and beard. But its facial features were fine, much too fine for any man who could lurk in the waters, and slightly too angular and with eyes a bit too lively and sharp to belong to a human as they studied you.

“Pretty girl.” the man from the water finally grumbled, “A bit unruly but pretty. At least that the old man did not lie about it.”

You raised your eyebrows in surprise, “Thank you?”

The man shrugged, “Sorry for trying to drown you, apparently, I misunderstood your fragile physique.”

Fragile physique. He made it sound like an insult.

You took one final breath and summoned your strength to sit up to be on the same eye level as the large man from the water.

“Who are you?” you asked while trying to sort your wet skirts.

He snorted and waved slightly.

“I am König – king of all under the waters. Naturally. And you are the bride I was promised by the old fisherman a couple of days ago.”

Your eyes widened in surprise, “Do you mean my grandfather? He used to fish here.”

The man shrugged, causing little waves around his shoulders where he emerged from the pond, “Most humans all look and smell the same to me, honestly. He was old for a human, liked to share stories, and left me a bit of tobacco as offerings sometimes. Smelled of smoked fish.”

Memories of your grandfather flashed before your eyes where he sat on the bench in front of the house, smoking his pipe in the late hours of the day, watching the sun go down.

Your mouth went dry.

Had he? Did he really?

Did he, in all his misery and worry, promised your hand to a strange man from the pond – a huge and wet and cold and clearly dangerous monster.

You went stiff from the overwhelming thought of being given away like that to a stranger - to a monster.

“Well, you are a human but I’m not in the habit of breaking promises and I'm sure you would make a good enough queen,” König continued, “Unless you object of course. There is little as unhonourable as having an unwilling bride, not even the slimiest toad approves of that.”

König babbled on about waters and ponds and marriage but your head was spinning. Your grandfather arranged for you to marry an algae cover man from the pond who's idea of home nearly killed you. The painful absurdity of it made you consider jumping right back into the water.

The cold, dark and green water.

The buzzing of the summer insects and splashing of the little waves drowned everything else out, turning louder and louder and louder and-

“Maid?”

His hand touched your arm, slowly shaking you.

You jolted up only to fall back.

“Yes?” you managed while leaning back, away from the large, clawed hand.

König’s watery eyes shifted around you as if searching for the right words.

“Listen, I don’t know too much about you humans, “ König started, “but you look cold and miserable. Maybe let’s worry about that first and talk about our wedding later.”

You blinked as the realization in all its form settled in.

Marrying him?

He would drown you in this pond, your flesh rotting and being picked by the fishes until nothing but a pile of bones were left.

Your bones, your lovely bones.

No! You had felt your life slip out of your fingers, the precious air bubbles escaping your lungs bare moments ago. Your cold hands wandered around your pained body intuitively, cradling yourself and trying to protect you from the outside world. You weren’t ready to give up on this life - to give on your body - and you would keep yourself safe and alive. This was your skin, your hair and flesh and bones! Death would come to you one day but you would be damned if it came today at the bottom of a dark pond and by the hands of a man.

“Yes, you are right. I should get dry,” you managed, sensing a chance to escape.

With wobbly legs, you tried to get up only to sway and stumble down on your knees. You needed to leave this place.

König tilted his head, watching you.

You tried again; your muscles too weak to carry you.

“Dear,” König said with slight amusement in his voice, “Your will is admirable, pretty girl. But I doubt it will be enough to get you home.”

“So? Will you drag me back into the pond and finish your work?” you replied, considering the option to crawl home and far away from the water

“Why would I do that, bride?”, he chuckled before turning serious again, looking at you with those blue more than clear inhuman eyes, “I have heard it’s not customary but allow me to get you to your home before you hurt yourself. You humans take so long to heal and an injured bride during the wedding would be a nuisance.”

Fearful you tried to move again.

He watched, waiting for your answer.

You considered his words. Your home. And he clearly wanted you in one piece at least before the wedding.

“No pond?”, you asked with an oh so thin weak voice.

“No pond.” He reassured, “That’s clearly not your element, my little bride-to-be.”

Slowly, you nodded.

Carefully, as if not to spook you, he scooped you back into his arms once again and pressed you to his chest.

You felt yourself going stiff again from fear, but before you could cry out, König stepped out of the water and away from the dreaded pond.

“See, no pond,” König spoke soothingly, and you felt his voice vibrate in his chest as he moved and swayed to avoid branches while shielding you with his shoulders, “I’m keeping my promises, my little bride.”

#there will be a mix of folkloric elements in this since i grew up with both eastern and central european traditions and can do what i want #this was written with a special amount of love for my fellow slavs and hinterland fairy tales collectors #könig #könig cod #könig x reader #könig mw2 #könig call of duty #könig fanfiction #könig x you #call of duty #könig x oc #monster #monster x human #monster!könig

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siddhigirls · 2 months

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she belongs to the city

pairing: toxic!dark!rafe cameron x stripper!reader

warnings: stalking, mentions of sex

rafe

she reminds me of the city. the pretty cn tower behind her lucious body, flowers in her hand as well as some losers hand in the other, who the fuck was he anyway? he probably met her at club zanzibar, doesn’t know shit bout her other than the her body under her clothes. i felt like the biggest creep watching her laugh at his jokes as he takes occasional glances at her tits bouncing lightly. i fixed my cap as i followed behind, watching his hand leave her hand and go to her lower back, whispering little nothings in her ear that caused her to grin from ear to ear.

i hate the fact that she gave me one lap dance and we shared a moment together, god she let me do a line on her tit, i’m just turned on thinking about her. i’ll see her tonight. she will be mine.

third person

you let the music take over your body as you see grown sweaty older men throw money at you, you picked up the money and made your way back behind the stage. your manager came up to you his thick moustache being too distracting from telling you important information sometimes. “hey some guy asked for you specifically saturn so be a doll and go to him, remember you’re my best client” your manager said as he eyes your body up and down, making his hand down to his pants, fixing his boner. you made your way out with the dimmed pink light fixture on the ceilings, spilt drinks on the ground, blunt roaches all over the ground, you looked around the room looking at a very familiar face, his hat covering his face, brought his hand up indicating you to come over.

“so when can i take you out honeys’” his sweet deep voice rung in your ears, you bit your lip smearing your mac lip liner underneath your lips, “baby you can’t take me on a date, now would you like a private dance or..?” you said climbing on his lap, his musky cologne filling your nose as you straddle him, holding the back of his neck”

“1000. just for one night.”

“what—“

“okay 2500, baby i can go higher.”

“no— i don’t think you get it.”

“5000.” he said sternly, “you can spend the night, you can even quit this job let me just show you one night baby— give me one fucking night” he begged, knowing he had a raging boner.

“i’ll fake a stomach ache..” you said, making your way to your managers office.

“y/n we need you. please.” your manager pleaded “i feel like im gonna puke” you lied, fake gagging. “okayokayokay! go pack your things and leave.” he said, you left in a hurry. you saw him look at you, made a swift head movement towards the door.

your number one rule as a stripper is that you cannot catch feelings for clients.

“you know you can’t pay me to have sex with you” you said getting his range rover, the musky scent of his cologne hitting your nose once again, he took off his hat showing his buzzcut, “i know that’s why i won’t have sex with you for money, but doesn’t mean i won’t fuck you at all..” his sentence making you feel cold, turning his car on, making his way to yonge and dundas.

the dark r&b playing through his speakers low enough so you can hear your own heart pounding out your chest. “so.. what’s your name” he says breaking the silence, “saturn.” you answered, another rule, do not tell your real name to clients, ever. your friend did the mistake of telling her name to a client and he stalked her and wouldn’t leave her alone till she got a restraining order filed against him.

“bullshit, y/n.”

your heart was in your throat, what the actual fuck were you doing. “h-how do you know that..” you stuttered, “i know everything sweetheart.” he says scarily enough, this frat boy lookin’ dude is actually a fucking stalker. you pulled your phone out your pocket slowly but surely to send your friend a text, “i wouldn’t do that’s if i were you.” he said chuckling. you put your phone back in defeat. “by the way it’s rafe honey” he smiled

the car ride felt long, he finally parked outside his airbnb which isn’t too far from kensington market. he got out the car and ran to your side, opening the door for you. “i could’ve done that myself, rafe.” the way you said his name made him go insane.

“you deserve it baby” he says. he opened the door to his airbnb as well, you walked in watching the beautiful chandelier hanging over the conversation pit near by the huge kitchen, the brown wooden stairs leading up to the second floor. “so, i’m sure you’re wondering why i know almost everything about you, i’ll tell you, once you give me your phone.” he says while sweat trickles down his forehead, the heat exhausting him and you. you were scared, but you obeyed. “good girl baby i’m so proud of you” he says rubbing the back of your head, taking your cherry scented perfume.

“no one will ever care for you like i do..”

#rafe cameron #drew starkey #outer banks #obx #obx fancfiction #dark rafe x reader #dark rafe cameron #rafe cameron x reader #rafe cameron fan fiction #drew starkey x reader #drew starkey fanfiction

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arcanekai · 4 months

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All I Want For Christmas Is You

Aether X gn! Reader

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cn | friends to lovers; reader has a brother; reader and Aether are a bit dense

Word count | 2.5k

an | Merry Christmas/ Happy Holidays everyone! Hope you are spending this season with loved ones! And have a Happy New Year!

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

The city of Monstadt was bustling with life as you walked down the street, humming a popular Christmas tune. You had just finished buying your brother's Christmas gift and were now doing a bit of window shopping. The decorations adoring every store reminded you of just what needed to be done before the fated family gathering happening on Christmas day. You still had to decorate the tree, make cookies, and buy an ugly sweater for the day. Not to mention, you need to prepare yourself for the onslaught of questions your relatives have for you and your love life. With a sign, you turn away from the store window and continue your journey down the street. As you turn the corner, you bump into something very sturdy. The impact made you stumble back a bit causing your foot to slip on the curb. Now falling backwards toward the pavement, you flail your arms to try and balance yourself only for someone's hand to grab your wrist and pull you to safety.

“Are you okay?”

You look up to see golden orbs gazing at you with worry.

“Aether? What are you doing here? I thought you were in Sumeru on vacation with Lumine?”

“Ha, I'll answer your question later. You still haven't answered mine.” Aether said with a small smile.

“Oh right, I'm fine,” you say as you rub the back of your neck in embarrassment, “my ankle hurts a little from the initial fall, but nothing life threatening.”

“That's good to hear, but maybe we should go to the hospital just in case. I can carry you on my back if you'd like?”

“There's no need for that! It's just a small sprain and I can walk just fine!” You shake your head and wave your hands in front of your face as a way to distract him from seeing the growing blush on your cheeks. “Besides, you still haven't answered my questions!”

“Alright, fine.” Aether replies a little defeated. “Lumine got snowed in at university and is still stuck there. We canceled our plans and decided to celebrate Christmas separately. As for why I am here currently, I'm buying presents.” He holds up the bag slightly with a sympathetic smile.

“You're spending Christmas by yourself? How about you spend Christmas with me and my family? I'm sure they wouldn't mind having you around, I mean you’re practically family at this point.”

Aether's eyes sadden at your last statement. Although he is happy you see him as family, he wished for something more. Something less familial and more romantic. Did you really not notice the huge crush he harbors for you? All those times in high school when he brought you somewhere secluded, just the two of you, only to be interrupted by one of your friends calling you. Or during college when he was the only one taking care of you when you were sick. His friends, as well as yours, caught on to his feelings for you and gave him multiple opportunities to confess to you, however, he was a coward. So, here he is, on the sidewalk of a busy street, talking to his best friend. Only his best friend, nothing more, nothing less.

“I mean if that's okay with you and your family. I don't want to intrude on your family time.” Aether said shyly.

“Nonsense! Besides, having you there means I get to avoid my nosy relatives who are only interested in my non-existent love life.” You say excitedly while nudging Aether's arm with your elbow. “*gasp* We can have matching sweaters! Come on, we have to get them now!”

You grab Aether by the arm and pull him toward the clothing stores, talking his ear off about everything you guys can do together before the day. Perhaps staying as friends has its benefits.

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

Standing in the living room was Aether and a very decorated Christmas tree. As you emerge from your kitchen with a tray of hot chocolate, you see Aether tilt his head to the side before placing another ornament on the tree.

His hair was in his signature braid and he was wearing the white scarf you had gifted him on his birthday years ago. It was nice knowing he cherished the gift so much, but it was also concerning with how much he wore it. Which is why your Christmas present for Aether is a new scarf, white with gold accents, along with some other things and a long overdue love letter. There were multiple times in high school where you were going to put it in his locker, but the amount of love letters he got from others was disheartening. During college you had gathered enough courage to ask him out on a date only for it to turn into a group hangout instead. Just a couple of days earlier, you were planning to leave it in his mailbox while he was on vacation, but that didn't happen. However, today is different. Today is the day that you are going to confess. You steeled yourself the day prior because you were determined to get your feelings across on matter what. Your brother had hyped you up and supported you all these years, so now was your chance to show the rest of your relatives why you waited so long to get a boyfriend. Aether was the only one for you and you know that once they met him, they will finally understand.

As you were giving yourself a pep talk in your head, Aether hears something ringing. At first he checks his phone, but soon finds the cause of the noise. Sitting on the couch cushion was your phone, playing your signature ringtone. Aether could help but smile at the fact that you haven't changed it since high school, but curiosity took over as he looked at the screen.

William. Who the heck is William?! Alright, calm down Aether, this is probably a misunderstanding. Didn't they say that they have a “non-existent love life”? It's probably not their significant other unlike all those scenarios in movies. Besides, it's not like it's the end of the world if they have other friends they hang out with.

As Aether was about to tell you your phone was ringing, you quickly put down the tray and rushed to pick it up. A little too eager for Aether's liking.

“Hello? Hey, I haven't heard from you in awhile, what's up? Oh, okay that's fine with me. Feel free to drop by anytime. I should be home. Alright, okay see you later, bye!”

As Aether stood awkwardly in your living room, trying to pretend he didn't hear anything, it was hard not to imagine this “William” as someone very important to you if you were just letting him come over whenever. It irked Aether that you weren't saying anything about it either, like it was totally normal to invite someone over without asking your other guest if it was alright. So, instead of pushing you for information, Aether decided that it would be best to just leave you alone with this “William”. Seeing that the tree was basically finished, Aether turned to you and gave you a forced smile.

“Hey, I'm going to head out now if that's alright. Lumine has been messaging me nonstop and probably wants me to call her.”

Without hearing your response, Aether grabs his coat off the couch, strides to your front door, puts on his boots and leaves.

“Okay, bye.” You say softly as the door closes, looking down at the two mugs of untouched hot chocolate.

You place the tray on the coffee table and sit on the couch, elbows resting on your knees while your hands hold up your head. You let out a somber sigh before leaning back and covering your face with your hands, letting out a groan.

What happened?

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

A couple of hours later, you opened the door for William. However, instead of being met with your usual smiling face, he sees you frowning. Coming inside the house and taking off his coat and boots, William looks at you expectantly.

“Hey, what's wrong? Where's Aether?”

Unable to speak, your bottom lip trembles, and tears start pouring out of your eyes. Your brother embraces you as you cry into his shirt, thoroughly soaking it.

“I know you're sad right now, but I need you to tell me what's wrong so I can help you.”

He plants you onto the couch before heading to the TV stand, grabbing the tissue box, and sitting next to you.

You sniffle your way into telling him the events that lead up to this point and you expect him to be angry. Instead, you are met with a loud stomach laugh.

“I know it's wrong for me to be laughing, but you're an idiot sometimes you know that?”

You let out an offended gasp at his comment before he starts to speak again.

“The reason why Aether left in such a rush wasn't because of Lumine. It's because he was jealous and heartbroken. Your action leading up to the phone call is probably what tipped him off at first, making him jealous, while your vague responses to me asking to drop off presents made it seem like you were inviting a significant other over. The only person you have to blame is your own stupidity for not telling him that it was just me, your brother, coming over for a short period of time.”

You grab one of the pillows sitting on the couch and bury your face in it, letting out a muffled scream. Your brother just pats you back as you wallow in your ignorance.

“You know that it's not too late to continue with your plan. All you have to do is tell him the truth.”

You finally lift your head off from the pillow and look at your phone, sitting on the coffee table. Determination evident in your eyes as you pick up your phone and call Aether, waiting for him to pick up.

Only for it to go to voicemail.

You quickly hang up and call again, knowing full well that Aether isn't busy.

You tried calling him seven times before giving up and throwing your phone down on the couch in frustration.

Your brother is still present to witness your little outburst of mixed emotions before suggesting a different tactic.

You put on your winter coat and shove your boots on before grabbing your keys. You rush out the door yelling thank you to your brother, almost slipping on ice as you sprint down the street toward Aether’s apartment.

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

Aether feels like an idiot and an asshole after hearing you explain everything. How William is actually your brother that he has known as Liam for the same amount of years he has known you. How his overthinking led him to make the wrong decision. How he thought lying to you would make things seem like nothing was wrong. He felt terrible. He ignored your calls because he was sad and yet here you are, in his apartment, out of breath with slightly puffy eyes.

He made you cry. Now he felt even worse.

“I'm sorry for bailing on you. It wasn't right for me to lie to your face like that because of my mixed emotions at the time.”

“So are we still friends?” You say hopefully.

“Yeah,” He replies with a nod and a smile, “but that's not the complete truth either.”

You tilt your head to the side in confusion.

“I want to be more than friends…. I like you.”

Your eyes widen at this new information.

He likes me? All this time, I was fretting over being rejected when Aether was probably going through the same thing.

Realizing that you still haven't replied to him, you quickly blurt out,

“I like you too!”

A sigh of relief escapes Aether's lips.

“How about we change our movie night into a date instead. We could go ice skating, but only if you're interested.”

“I'd love to.” smiling widely as you reply.

“Oh, one last thing. You can say no if you're uncomfortable with it, but can I kiss you?”.

He was using his puppy dog eyes at you. How could you possibly refuse?

You give him a nod and he slowly leans his body toward you. Reaching his hand out to cup your cheek, feeling the warmth of his palm against it as your blush grows. He starts to inch his face closer to yours until his nose is almost touching yours. You feel his breath on your skin and can tell he is nervous with how his lips tremble slightly. Finally, Aether tilts his head, and closes the gap between the two of you.

His lips are soft against your own and meld perfectly with yours. You don't separate until you are out of breath, slightly gasping for air, only for you to reconnect your lips with his again. You feel his other hand travel down to your waist to pull you closer.

When you two finally separate, Aether gets up from his couch and holds out hand. You gladly put your hand in his and he pulls you up into his chest, using his other hand on your hip to keep you in place. He then peppers your cheek with quick kisses in which you giggle at his sudden affection, but don't stop him.

After getting his fill, he takes you to the door and helps you into your coat and boots like a gentleman.

He links your hands with his once more and you both head out the door not as friends, but lovers.

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

Bonus

You were currently cuddled up to Aether on your shared couch while watching some Christmas movies. Your head was resting on Aether's chest, listening to his rhythmic heartbeat, arms around his waist with a fleece blanket draped over both of your legs. As you were enjoying Aether's warm embrace, you can't help but remember a fond memory and let out a small chuckle.

“What are you thinking about that's so funny?” Aether asked with a small smile while poking your forehead.

“Just thinking about the time when we had that flour fight and how your whole face was covered. Your expression made you look like you had a pie thrown at you.”

“Haha, very funny. But let's not forget the fact that you had an egg yolk running down your head.”

“And whose fault is that, hm?”

“You were the one who initiated the fight. I was just finishing it.” He said with a smug smile. You give him an unamused look and his face softens, “Time sure does fly, huh.”

“That's because I get to spend everyday with you.” you say while looking up at Aether's face with a loving gaze.

“That's so cheesy,” He says with a laugh while rolling his eyes, “but I wouldn't have put it any better myself.”

Planting a kiss on your forehead, his arm around your waist pulls you closer to him and he intertwines his hand with yours, feeling the ring on your finger.

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

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

an | Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed your stay here!

#genshin impact #aether #genshin impact x you #aether x reader #aether x you #genshin x reader #genshin x you #genshin impact x reader #aether x y/n #modern au #christmas #genshin oneshots

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perhaps-in-anotherdream · 4 months

Text

[CN] 6th Anniversary Event: “Love is on the way” – (Li Zeyan’s Prologue)

⌚ since global server won’t be getting this event anyway, I’m not going to add spoiler warning~ ⌚ ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و

[notes from Anika before we begin]: after the last day of the anni event, i was crying so hard that it felt like a sin to not bring it over haha. however, i don’t exactly have much time to spare despite the off days from uni, so this might take a while but i’ll try to update regularly and phase by phase~ (*´▽`*)♡

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

【Event Common Prologue】

The Loveland city hall and tourism bureau have arranged a “Love is on the way” event to celebrate the city being acknowledged as the best city for romantic experiences.

MC wins an “RV Travel Gift Package” in the lottery event held by the city hall as a part of the program ~

──────────

【Event Extended Prologue – Li Zeyan】

LZY: Why the frown when you’ve just hit the jackpot?

MC: You’re here just in time! Come and help me decide on a new travel plan.

As I agonize over the itinerary for the RV trip, I see Li Zeyan walking in and hurriedly wave at him to come over.

He takes the route map, gives it a brief glance, and then points to a path that starts from Tongyun Ancient town.

LZY: This one looks like it has the most potential for fun.

MC: My thoughts exactly, but the distance is quite far. It’d be quite a long drive…

LZY: This isn’t our first time going on a road trip like this.

LZY: Plus, the fuel coupons I won are enough to cover us for this entire long-distance trip.

At this unexpected answer, I can’t help but burst into laughter.

MC: Hahaha, what!? You know that’s clearly not what I’m worried about!

LZY: [laughs softly] Dummy, I know.

Contemplating the potential challenges that’d arise in managing his time around, I gently shake his hand.

MC: Taking this route will also add a few extra days to the travel duration we initially planned. I have some vacation days, but will you be able to adjust your schedule?

LZY: Absolutely.

Hearing him respond without the slightest hesitation, I look up at him in elation.

LZY: Every year around this time, when have I ever not freed up my time?

─────

Lounging on the sofa, I cushion my head comfortably on Li Zeyan’s leg, my eyes glued to the short video playing on the phone––

The scene shows couples, family members, or friends lifting their right fists and solemnly pledging adorable vows like “to never be a wet blanket” before setting off on their travels.

Just picturing the scene of Li Zeyan raising his hand to take a vow for tomorrow’s trip involuntarily causes the corners of my lips to hook upwards.

LZY & MC: [simultaneously] During this trip––

Our simultaneously resounding voices catch me off guard for a moment, and then I lock eyes with him.

LZY: Found something fun again?

MC: A super awesome travel hack we’ve never tried before!

LZY: Seeing how you used such a long preamble, it doesn’t sound like something good.

MC: You’re being biased! Who knows, what you wanted to say might not even be as cool as my hack.

LZY: Very true. After all, I only did some pre-travel preparation, and that’s all.

With a subtle smile playing in his eyes, Li Zeyan hands me the tablet he is holding.

My eyes can’t help but widen in astonishment as I look at the minimalistic yet inclusive travel guide that covers everything from destinations to transportation routes and activity arrangements.

The itinerary includes almost every place I wish to check off, along with numerous delightful surprises.

MC: Where did you find this rice wine ice cream? It looks really yummy~

LZY: …you’re the one who found this.

In my bewildered gaze, he digs up our chat history from two days ago and opens a check-in post titled, “I’ll be heartbroken for anyone who hasn’t tried the rice wine ice cream, okay?”

MC: I have no recollection of it at all…

LZY: It’s normal to not have any recollection. Since you started planning, you’ve sent me 63 check-in posts in just two days.

MC: It’s because there are just too many fun things.

Feeling a bit embarrassed, I stick my tongue out at him, but soon, my eyes are drawn to the many empty time slots in the itinerary.

MC: CEO Li, are these time slots designated for spontaneous activities?

LZY: Yup, just in case a certain someone has spontaneous whimsy to add more activities halfway through the trip.

Looking at his perfectly strategized itinerary, I suddenly feel a little guilty about the “travel hack” I’ve just boasted about.

LZY: Tell me, what’s your travel hack?

Looking away from his eyes filled with interest, I try hard to compose myself. Then, I raise my chin with a false bravado.

MC: Your strategy is amazing, and it just so happens that my hack can make it even more perfect!

He noncommittally arches an eyebrow, waiting for me to continue.

MC: Recently, there’s a trending travel vow making waves on the internet…

LZY: …sure enough, it’s a childish game.

MC: No, it’s not! Only the people who are closest to each other can take this vow together!

Seeing my eager expression, he sighs in compromise.

LZY: How do we take the vow?

Not giving him a chance to regret it, I promptly raise my right hand to the side of my forehead and gesture for him to follow suit.

Li Zeyan remains silent for a moment, but eventually, he still closes his right hand into a fist and raises it awkwardly.

LZY: It’s silly.

MC: We’re being silly together~

My eyes crinkle into a smile, and I hand him the vow from my phone.

MC: I solemnly vow, during our anniversary trip, to never cry out because of being tired, to never stay cooped up all day lying in bed, to never get upset over taking ugly photos.

LZY: With mutual tolerance and accommodation, we will complete all the planned activities.

MC: Should anyone violate––

Realizing that his voice has suddenly ceased to be heard, I look to my side with confusion, only to find him staring at the vow with a crease between his brows.

LZY: “An irreconcilable conflict will be declared between the two parties”?

MC: The vow can be effective only when the punishment is severe enough~ Looks like a certain someone is scared now.

Brushing off my immensely complacent expression, he regards me with a contemplative look.

LZY: [he’s amused af LOL] Before proceeding, let’s clarify what “irreconcilable conflict” actually means for our situation.

LZY: Do you intend to return all of Huarui’s (LFG) investment?

MC: [confused] …Eh?

LZY: Also, which one of us will Pudding reside with?

MC: [even more confused] …Pudding?

LZY: And, moving forward, the entrance to Souvenir…

MC: W-W-W-WAIT!

I finally catch on and promptly extend my hand to cover his mouth in an attempt to prevent more dangerous and dreadful words from escaping.

MC: How can such icy words come out of your 37-degree Celsius mouth!

–

[T/N]: In case the joke escapes anyone, 37°C = 98.6°F, which is the normal body temperature – quite close to the boiling temperature and a far cry from the freezing point, so “technically,” he shouldn’t be able to say such “icy/ chilling” words 😂

–

LZY: [laughs softly] Just wanted to confirm whether a certain someone who is beside herself with joy actually has any practical plans.

LZY: But I think someone else is feeling scared at the moment.

The slightly curved corners of his lips leave a tingling sensation in my palm, giving away a hint of teasing.

Realizing that he is deliberately messing with me, I can’t help but feel indignant.

MC: I’m not scared at all; increasing the challenge a bit more is perfectly fine with me.

LZY: As long as you don’t regret it.

Faced with his amused gaze, I clench my teeth and lay out the rules.

MC: How about counting by the number of times someone fails to keep their vows? Each violation results in a deduction of one point, and the person with the lower score shoulders all the consequences.

LZY: To avoid any attempts to dodge responsibility, let the other person have the authority for judgment.

MC: What if we end up with a tie?

LZY: What would you want to do?

MC: I most certainly don’t want to split up with you!

Upon hearing my immediate, unfiltered answer, he lets out a muffled chuckle.

LZY: In that case, after the game begins, make sure to uphold this attitude of yours.

──────────

🚐 • First Location: To be updated

──────────────────────────────────────

#went with “Li Zeyan” here b/c it just feels home 🥺❤️#HAHAHA i can promise you the laughs and tear counts throughout this event is endless. so buckle up 🤗💕#mlqc victor #mlqc li zeyan #mlqc #mr love victor #mr love queen's choice #恋与制作人 #李泽言 #love and producer #mlqc cn #mlqc translations

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i-like-eyes · 6 months

Note

So.. what's the deal with the cartoon network crossover? 👀

I'm glad you sent an ask I was originally going to make a separate post lol

The AU spawned from wanting to do my own take on FusionFall, which then became a fighting game, then the gameplay was reworked into an original idea and the designs of the CN characters were reworked into a comic. Since it started as a fighter that meant I had planned out separate stages for each franchise, as opposed to one uniform setting such as CN City or the popular shared school au. The fighter didn't really have a plot I just came up with the explanation that the kids are all KND (or TeenND) members and were just having a sparing match and the adult characters were somehow targets or smth. Now the current iteration is most the characters are just on the same planet and become involved in some way or another (probably the KND still). The reoccurring theme is just trying to find people like you.

The most clear idea I've had is between PPG and Ben 10; the girls are known around the world and Ben (and Gwen) feeling lonely want to meet other super hero kids their age. Grandpa Max reminds them they are still strangers and that Ben and Gwen have to keep their identities secret, but does some research into the girls and Professor Utonium and recognizes how he still value's their privacy. Max then tries to get in contact with Utonium to see if getting the kids together would even be a good idea. Utonium himself also recognizes the girls have tried to find other super hero kids to hang out with, but both he and Max spend like a year over email trying to see if they can even trust each other lmao. Eventually after the two meet up (and Max knows he can trust them with the alien thing) they agree to set up a playdate and the focus then moves to the kids as they interact.

Ben and Gwen are like uhhhh aged between the original and Alien Force. Kevin is also there but I want to write a different intro for him that involves Gwen more.

The girls I've pictured as this; Blossom handles the fame best of the 3 and also is the best when it comes to the press while Buttercup and Blossom prefer to stand back. While she is good at being the ideal Powerpuff Girl, she has ambitions in the same science as her father and struggles to balance the two. Buttercup still enjoys the art of fighting the most, and goes on the most solo missions, but gets treated unfairly for her more masculine behavior and has to deal with fitting in with neither girls nor boys. Bubbles also has to deal with unfair treatment by being undermined for being the most girlish (there is no winning) but lacks a hobby like the other two (though she has some artistic merit). She may be the loneliest of the three as a result. Although they all still share a good friend in Robin. Bubbles and Buttercup get along better than they did as kids, though Blossom doesn't want them to feel like she's ignoring the two.

For the sake of simplicity the ending of KND and the G:KND storyline with Nigel being shot into space is ignored. The KND as an organization is trying to expand the TND upon seeing the teen's potential for rebellion. They lack a way to regain old KND members back, so they go out trying to recruit teens while they wait for current KND members to just age up. Sector V was selected for TND and go out and try and recruit new members. The ideas I have for them involve the awkward wait between the V members going 12 -> 13 years and transitioning between jobs. My personal hc was that in the show at one point it's Kuki and Wally at 10, Nigel at 11, then Hoagie and Abby at 12, with Kuki being the youngest and Abby the oldest. During and after this transition phase they are sent out on recruitment missions which is where the crossover stuff comes in.

Hoagie is sent to see if either Dexter or Mandark is available. Mandark is a dick but Dexter get points knocked down for getting funding from the adult-run NASA. It turns into another ego battle between Dexter and Mandark while Hoagie has to deal with the two rich kids. Dee Dee is there to fuck with all 3 of them and is the one that gets recruited. Hoagie probably also treats this like a sports movie or smth.

The Time Squad sometime in the future are homeschooling Otto, they try to get him socializing with kids his age during missions but think that he should be spending time with kids from his century. Otto has been researching not just history but what happens after his time as well. He wants to meet heroes when they were his age.

I have A LOT of ideas for the Eds but most of it isn't crossover material. But I like the idea of them just accidentally walking into other shows, Courage or Foster's in particular.

The world in this AU is basically only limited by shows with hugely conflicting lore. That's vague but that mostly means like, the Land of Ooo conflicts with most shows. So to justify AT it's like. An alternate Earth and somehow Finn finds his way to this one and loses his shit over other humans. While he's glad to find kids like him Jake worries that Finn may prefer this world to Ooo and that he may leave. Jake is all ready to come to terms with this and Finn is like dude what we have only been here for 5 hours.

Billy and Mandy are mostly antags like in the KND crossover. I have a super vague idea for Billy somehow giving up Grim to other kids and they keep trading him for like a corn chip, and while other toon guys go on adventures with the reaper, Mandy drags Billy with her to get Grim back. At some point Numbuh 1 meets the Regular Show crew I forgot to draw and his world view is shattered. Gumball and Darwin are there. Etc.

I'd probably prioritize the first PPG and Ben 10 story as the clearest I got rn. But otherwise I'd love to see other people's crossover stuff and just old CN or cartoons in general.

#cartoon network #i may need to come up with a name for this sort of project #powerpuff girls #ppg #ben 10 #knd #dexter's laboratory #time squad #fhfif #eene #eh i wont tag the stuff not with a drawing #myart #asks #i will 100% end up going back and editing this

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laxmiree · 10 months

Text

[CN] MLQC Lucien’s Preaching Date translation + Subbed Video

⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️

This post contains a detailed spoiler for a date that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

Lucien casually closes his eyes and raises the gun, pulling the trigger without care.

Bang-!

The barrel swiftly twists, and a bloody "firework" explodes on the man's finger.

Lucien's expression remains indifferent, but crimson bloodshot vessels have already filled the bottom of his eyes.

Like a calm sea surface concealing a dark vortex that has already surged, ready to swallow everything at any moment.

Everything- including himself.

Translation under the cut

[Subbed Video]

youtube

[Part 1]

The summer is full of sunshine in Europe, yet the temperatures are rather gentle like late spring.

I lift up my phone and capture a snapshot of the emerald-green scenery under the radiant sunlight.

MC: Lucien, what do you think of this photo I took?

Beside me, Lucien slightly leans forward. His other hand wraps around my waist.

Lucien: The composition is novel and the theme is clear, but it lacks a finishing touch.

MC: Huh? What do you mean?

As he speaks, he hands his phone to me, and the screen displays a photo — with the same emerald green tones, but this time with the addition of my silhouette in the background.

The thought of me taking a picture of the trees while Lucien takes a picture of me at the same time and space makes me unable to suppress my laughter.

MC: Professor Lucien always seems to play the role of the “watchful observer”* behind the scenes, doesn’t he?~

(T/N: 黄雀在后 (Lit. the oriole behind) is from a complex idiom 螳螂捕蝉，黄雀在后 (lit. The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind) which generally means to pursue a narrow gain while neglecting a greater danger. You can say that Lucien is the greater danger and it’s an important foreshadowing :D)

Lucien: Is that so? I haven’t thought that much about it though.

Lucien: In my judgment, the best scenery is only found where you are.

I raise the corners of my lips and hook my hand around his neck under the shade of the trees.

MC: Well, I admit you’re more meticulous~ But are you sure you want to accompany me sightseeing?

MC: You have to attend the academic exhibition tomorrow. Shouldn’t you go back to the hotel and prepare for it?

Recently, there have been groundbreaking advancements in the research of neurodegenerative diseases at the Ultima Bioresearch Center.

To make further progress, Ultima Bioresearch Center organized its researchers to participate in the latest academic exhibition in Europe to present the project research to major medical companies.

If the collaboration between the two parties is successful, they will jointly develop lower-cost medications to save more patients.

Lucien smiles and lifts the palm of his hand to cradle the back of my head, imprinting a kiss on my forehead.

Lucien: Mm, can’t be more sure.

Lucien: The reason I came a day early is to bask in the sun and take a walk with you in advance.

Lucien: Moreover, this city holds numerous festive gatherings during its lively times, and I’m really looking forward to this time of leisure and exploration with you.

MC: Alright then, I can enjoy myself without worry.

MC: However, if there’s any assistance you need from me at the exhibition tomorrow, as a “non-staff personel,” I’ll be there to support you!

After saying that, I grab his hand and walk towards a bustling crowd ahead.

Apart from the fantastical carousel and teacup-like Ferris wheel, there are also shooting stalls, ring-toss games, claw machines, and other stalls all around, creating a lively atmosphere.

Lucien: Which one would you like to play first?

MC: Hmm... It seems like there are long queues for all of them.

Lucien looks around and then takes my hand, leading me toward a shooting stall filled with plush toys.

Lucien: Since that’s the case, let’s go to the place with prizes first.

Lucien: If we arrive late, I might see a “disappointed” little lady.

[Part 2]

That night, I fell into a deep slumber, holding tightly onto the small fox plushie that Lucien had won for me.

After a restful sleep, I wake up refreshed the next day and neatly organize the materials at the booth.

MC: It’s starting in ten minutes.

I adjust the name tag on my uniform, ensuring that the synchronous translation device in my ear is functioning properly. Then, I wave at Lucien before heading off.

MC: Today, I’ll be your little assistant, Professor Lucien. Feel free to give me any instructions~

Lucien: Then I’d like to offer a token of appreciation before we begin as a small thanks.

He smiles and takes my hand, walking towards the nearby railing.

The exhibition is located in an open-air atrium of a luxurious hotel, surrounded by lush greenery. With a gentle inhale, the air is filled with a delightful fragrance.

To my surprise, I discover that on the ground floor of the hotel, there is also a festive gathering with various stalls in the courtyard.

MC: Haha, I didn’t expect the organizers to be so thoughtful.

MC: They even consider that even the greatest and most rigorous scientists need to relax and unwind their minds from time to time~

Colorful tents adorn the area, and among them stands a person-sized rabbit plush toy inside a claw machine.

It raises its furry paw, seemingly beckoning to those who are destined to take it home.

Lucien: MC, don’t you think it would be a perfect match with the little fox from last night?

He seems to have noticed the same thing as me, and his voice gently resonates with a joyful tone.

MC: Yes, it’s indeed a perfect companion!

MC: I wonder if it will still be here waiting for us once we’re done with our busy schedule.

As I speak, I glance around, searching for any potential “competitors.”

However, since it’s an event within the hotel, aside from the staff, only a few people are sitting on a swing in one corner.

They are wearing casual plaid shirts and don’t have any name tags, so they must be hotel guests.

However, it seems like they are not very interested in the gathering as they keep their heads down, engrossed in their phones.

Lucien: It seems that for now, there won’t be anyone to compete with us for that adorable little rabbit.

With a subtle sense of delight, I tidy up his collar once again.

MC: Professor Lucien, shall we start working? We can bring it home with us once we’re finished~

Since it is a highly selective exhibition, the attendees here are representatives from authoritative companies in the medical industry.

In addition, with the format of poster presentations, Lucien and other researchers take turns being on duty.

One group is responsible for providing explanations to the attending representatives, while the other group can explore and learn from other booths.

Although I may not have expertise in the relevant field, I do my best to assist by delivering materials and providing guidance.

After two busy hours, the visiting group of researchers returns with smiles on their faces.

Researcher A: Thank you for your hard work. Now it’s our turn to take over and provide explanations.

Researcher B: The booths this time are all impressive. I believe you will gain a lot from exploring them.

Lucien: Alright, shall we go then?

Lucien’s fingertips naturally intertwine with mine through the gaps between our fingers. However, he doesn’t stop at any booth but leads me directly to the entrance on the ground floor.

MC: Huh? Aren’t you going to explore the booths?

He glances at the rabbit still inside the claw machine, and there is a slight relaxation in his expression.

Lucien: Of course, we’ll explore them, but we have two hours, remember?

Lucien: If all goes well, within ten minutes, I should be able to have you holding the rabbit in your arms.

MC: Professor Lucien is quite confident, huh~

Lucien: (chuckles) In my plan, having it as our companion will ensure that we have a good mood throughout the entire day.

As he speaks, he takes out a stack of bills and exchanges them for a basket of coins at the counter. He then walks over to the claw machine.

Because the rabbit plush toy is quite large, the claw machine is filled with balls of different colors. The goal is to grab the only pink ball, and then exchange it with the staff for the rabbit plush toy.

MC: Are you so confident? Those claw machines can be rigged, you know!

Lucien: As long as I practice a few times and observe the claw’s gripping strength, speed, and inertia when it shakes...

Lucien: Then we can bring it home.

The claw slowly descends after Lucien presses the button, scratching the smooth surface of the ball but coming back empty-handed.

He doesn’t feel discouraged. A sharp gleam appears in his narrow eyes as if he is quickly calculating something.

As time passes, with only two game coins remaining, Lucien calmly inserts them into the machine.

Lucien: MC, if I succeed on the last attempt, can I get some rewards?

I certainly know what he’s hinting at. I tiptoe and give him a kiss.

MC: Of course you can.

MC: However, based on my understanding of you, you can totally redeem the reward in advance!

[Part 3]

MC: Wow, this rabbit is even softer than I imagined.

Lucien: (chuckles) It’s very cute indeed. Can you lend it to me for now and place it at our booth as a mascot?

Lucien: Who knows, it might attract more company representatives to come over.

MC: Um! After we place it, then I’ll accompany you to visit other booths...

As I speak, I suddenly feel a buzzing sensation in my head, as if a layer of white mist is enveloping me. My vision becomes blurry, sometimes appearing closer and sometimes farther away.

Lucien....

Slowly turning my head, I notice that Lucien’s figure has become hazy, and the surrounding noise is drowned out by a buzzing sound.

He seems to have noticed that something is wrong with me as well, and he anxiously wraps his arm around my waist.

Lucien: MC.

I can’t hear anything.

I can only see his mouth opening and closing as if he’s calling out my name, but when I try to reach out and hold him, my hands are unresponsive and out of control.

It feels like an unknown force is pulling at my body, and I am aware that I have opened my mouth, uttering unexpected English words.

But in the next second, the translation earpiece automatically recognizes my voice and converts it into a cold, electronic sound—

‘MC’: “Hey, Professors, how can you two just casually leave the exhibition like that?”

What is happening?

No matter how much I try to wave my hands or shout out loud, it’s of no use.

It feels like my consciousness is being drawn into a vessel, and no matter how much my brain sends commands, my body refuses to obey my instructions.

Just as I try to seek help from Lucien, my legs suddenly start running forward, and then I leap up, using the railing in front of me for support, momentarily soaring into the air.

I sense a hint of pain as the ligaments in my thighs tear instantly, but in the next second, my body jumps over the railing.

Soon, the swing that I saw in the morning comes into view in my line of sight, and my hands immediately reach out from the bushes, holding a handgun.

After completing all the actions seamlessly, a cold muzzle is pressed against my temple.

Bang-!

My mind goes blank for a brief moment.

The expected pain and agony do not arrive as anticipated. In my line of sight, birds startle and flap their wings towards the sky, while the people around me scream and scatter in all directions.

In the chaos, several armed men drive the people who couldn’t escape into the tents, and sobs can be heard from inside.

Lucien: This evolver, what do you plan to do?

I feel the corners of my mouth twitch, and I keep the gun barrel pressed against my temple. I turn around and look at Lucien, whose face has turned icy.

His face is particularly grim, and the temperature around us seems to drop several degrees under the scorching sun.

But “I” simply give a shake to the bunny ears in my hand and let out a scoffing laugh.

‘MC’: “Professor, don’t be nervous. I’m just here to get the job done. If possible, I don’t want anyone to die here either.”

‘MC’: “So, before I explain my intentions, how about we quietly return to the venue?”

Lucien doesn’t take a step forward, and his narrow eyes become slightly cold.

Lucien: You have already stirred up trouble.

Lucien: I’m afraid that there won't be a way to calm things down peacefully.

As “I” speak, I tried countless times to escape from the white fog, but each attempt ends in failure.

Just as I am trying to calm down and think, “I” suddenly releases the grip on the gun and casually flips it around twice.

‘MC’: “Fine, let’s save some time then.”

‘MC’: “Although I’m not a professional, I do know that all of you have excellent research achievements. It’s just that they’re a bit too good.”

‘MC’: “If we continue to lower drug prices, there will always be people who are unhappy.”

‘MC’: “So, on behalf of my boss, I want to have a chat with all of you, discuss some business, and ensure that everyone presents has an opportunity to make money.”

The cold translation plays through the earphones, gradually making me realize that a terrorist attack is being launched against the exhibition.

However, he seems unfamiliar with Lucien, and the fact that I’m the one being "held hostage" is more like a “random stroke of luck.”

With that in mind, I instinctively nodded toward Lucien, despite being out of control.

‘MC’: “Alright, let’s go back to the venue with us. This way, I will release this lady.”

Lucien: I understand your intentions now.

Lucien: But you've taken the wrong person hostage. She is not a research team here.

Lucien: And compared to you, the person standing in front of you seems to pose an even greater threat.

My lips twitch again, but the bristling hairs on my body told me that there is some surging emotion building up.

However, the person controlling my body seems oblivious to this subtle change, even arrogantly crossing their arms.

‘MC’: “Professor, actually, my luck is not bad. Even if I’ve taken the wrong person hostage, she is still the most important one among these people.”

‘MC’: “Because you care about her a great deal, don’t you?”

‘MC’: “If you don’t believe me, take a look at this...”

The rabbit in my hand slips away and falls in front of my shoe.

I lift my hand and press it forcefully onto a sharp fence behind me, leaving a trail of blood.

A piercing pain spreads from my fingertips to my whole body, and my vision becomes blurred by involuntary tears.

However, the person controlling me seems to be devoid of shared pain, continuing to press down without any concern—

An instant frost envelops my fingertips, followed by my joints as they freeze, leaving my limbs completely immobilized in place.

Bang- Bang!

“I” follow the sound and look, only to see the people who were holding the gun also frozen on the ground, their eyes filled with fear clearly reflected through the ice crystals.

??: AHH-!

The people being held hostage immediately scream and flee from the tent, leaving only “me” and Lucien standing in place.

Lucien: Sorry.

Lucien: It might be a bit cold, but it'll be fine soon.

Lucien walks towards me step by step, and wherever he goes, thin ice forms in his steps.

I’m unconsciously trembling from the chilling air, and he covers the back of my hand with an even colder palm.

In just an instant, the gun in my hand is taken away by him.

[Part 4]

‘MC’: "If you're willing to do it, go ahead and shoot. After all, she'll be the only one getting hurt."

Lucien: I see you still haven't figured out the situation.

He shows no emotions on his face, the tightly pressed corners of his mouth sharp as a blade.

Lucien: The issue I'm facing has never been about making choices.

Lucien: Because even if you were to gamble with your life, your life is not worthy enough to do so.

Several sharp ice shards suddenly appear with us at the center, slanting downward and refracting a cold gleam of light.

Lucien: I know where you are.

Lucien: I also know what your fate will be.

At this moment, I feel my body stiffen, as if it's a reaction triggered by that Evolver.

‘MC’: “You-!”

All the ice shards pierce through, resoundingly embedding into the ground, except for one spot where a different sound emerges from the thicket of trees—

—like a muffled sound that blends together the piercing of flesh and bone.

As my body trembles uncontrollably, a body pierced by ice shards in each limb falls from among the trees.

Lying on the ground is a young man who appears to be around thirty years old, dressed in a plaid shirt...

In an instant, I recall that he seems to be the person who was sitting on the swing earlier in the morning!

So, it turns out they had already infiltrated early in the morning.

‘MC’: “....”

The person controlling my body seems to be overwhelmed with fear, only able to produce hoarse gasps.

Lucien takes oppressive steps forward, picking up the rabbit plush toy and the scattered game coins that fell to the ground.

Seeing my blood on them, a cold gleam flashes through Lucien's typically calm eyes, causing terrifying cracks to appear in the surrounding frost.

After a moment of silence, he sits on the nearby bench, quietly embracing the plush and holding it as if it were a lifeline.

Lucien: Sir, you made my rabbit dirty.

Lucien casually closes his eyes and raises the gun, pulling the trigger without care.

Bang-!

Lucien: However, that's not the only mistake you've made.

The barrel swiftly twists, and a bloody "firework" explodes on the man's finger.

Lucien's expression remains indifferent, but crimson bloodshot vessels have already filled the bottom of his eyes.

Like a calm sea surface concealing a dark vortex that has already surged, ready to swallow everything at any moment.

Everything- including himself.

Lucien: But now you still have the opportunity to make the final judgment.

Bang- Bang!

But Lucien seems uninterested in receiving a response, immediately firing several shots at the man’s various limbs.

The next moment, I feel my vision blur once again, but this time it seems like control over my body has returned.

I make a few deliberate movements with my fingers, and the sensations transmitted through the nerve endings make me realize that the person controlling me seems to have vanished from my body.

However, the peculiar sense of detachment amplifies within my body, and I can't prevent myself from losing strength and falling to the ground—

A strong hand scoops me up and embraces me.

Lucien: MC, it's all right now.

Lucien: It’s all right now…

It’s as if he said the last sentence to reassure himself, with barely detectable tremors in his soft voice.

MC: Lucien...

The lingering fear makes me instinctively cling to him, as if trying to absorb his warmth, burying it deep within my chest.

And he is holding me tightly, his large palm gently stroking me over and over again.

Lucien: Don't be afraid, I'm here.

MC: I... I can hear and see everything, but I just can't control myself...

Lucien: (chuckles softly) MC, do you need to confirm it again?

Lucien is holding my hand to his cheek, a cool and soft touch comes from his fingertips.

My fingertips tremble slightly, then slowly glide across his cheek, his nose, and the edge of his lips.

I want to imprint these ordinary touches deep into the bottom of my heart.

Lucien: Even though it feels a bit ticklish, you can take as much time as you need to be sure.

Lucien: I'll be here for you until you're fully at ease.

Lucien lowers his head and gently kisses my lips. His movement is light and slow as if he wants me to feel him as much as possible.

MC: Lucien....

I grip his lapel with a bit of force, feeling the tension of the fabric under my fingertips, gradually soothing my unease and palpitations.

Everything that just happened seems to be just a nightmare.

After deepening the last kiss, he gently sets me down, crouches, and takes hold of my knee, slowly rubbing it.

Lucien: Are you still cold?

Seeing the apology in his eyes, I shake my head, preparing to say something, when a siren suddenly rings out from the distance.

I stare blankly at the man who's fallen unconscious on the ground, the pool of blood beneath him is a shocking sight.

Lucien: He’s fine for now.

Lucien: But I need to take you to get bandaged up first.

He massages my knee again, his gaze fixed intensely on the coagulated blood at my fingertips.

Even though it's just a minor scrape, I don't want him to worry any further, so I obediently nod.

MC: There seems to be a medical station in the venue, so by the time the police arrive, we can still manage to cooperate and give statements...

Before I can finish, Lucien pulls me into his arms, his chin lightly resting on the top of my head.

Lucien: There's no need to rush

Lucien: I don't want to make you suffer any more today. I will negotiate with them to postpone the process until tomorrow morning.

He unconsciously tightens his grip, revealing deeper emotions beneath his slightly stern demeanor.

Apart from guilt, there's a greater sense of fear that he can’t control.

[it’s the fear of losing someone yet again :”]

I can't help but hug him tightly, feeling his silent but turbulent embrace.

MC: Even though I'm fine now, I'll still listen to you~

The light in Lucien's eyes softens a bit more, he releases me and picks up the rabbit plush at his foot, and gently pats it.

Lucien: MC, my plans have been disrupted, so to make it up to you...

Lucien: I will help you clean it. In the time that follows, both me and it will be here to bring you joy.

#it's rare to see lucien actually lose his shit like this #oh look new trauma unlocked #16+ as in mild gore warning #PG are you sure this is a date not main story-#mlqc lucien #mr. love queen's choice #mlqc #mlqc spoiler #mlqc cn #mlqc translation #lucien: *looking at the man in his own pool of blood* eh he’ll be fine #also lucien: *looking at MC's minor scraps* are you hurt? you need to be bandaged up #the double standard is real #anyway 10/10 date really love the use of word like vortex #bc it reminiscent to what happen in main story

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sylvia-forest · 5 months

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[CN] Shaw's 6th Anniversary event - Prologue

⚡ Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for an Event which hasn't been released in EN yet!⚡

[This was translated with the help of Google translate!]

Everyone: It’s over——!

At [MC company’s name] Company, we eagerly watched as the promotional video for the "Love is on the way" event, which we had been working on for several days, came to an end, marking the beginning of a long-awaited holiday for the entire team.

The "Love is on the way" event, jointly launched by the City Hall and the Tourism Bureau, celebrated Loveland City once again being recognized as the best city for romance.

To encourage citizens to embark on a journey of exploring, conveying, and receiving love with their loved ones, the event specially designed multiple sweet tour routes.

In addition, the City Hall would randomly select numerous lucky citizens to provide them with varying amounts of travel funds.

Minor: I'm so nervous; the draw is about to begin.

Watching everyone in front of me stare at their phone screens with a look of anticipation, I couldn't help but feel excited as I took out my phone.

Soon, the notification sound of text messages echoed continuously.

Anna: I'm coming! I won free tickets for the entire scenic area!

Kiki: Oh my God...I also won, and I can travel on the high-speed train for free in business class seats~

Minor: Are you guys too lucky? Why do I only have a 50% discount coupon for shared bicycles?

MC: Pfft, that does sound a little pitiful.

After everyone received the messages, they all turned to look at me. I could only shake my phone, which still showed no signs of any messages.

MC: Haha, it doesn't matter. Anyway, I originally planned to travel during the holidays. Whether or not I win the lottery will not affect me.

Before I finished speaking, my phone suddenly vibrated.

In the expectant eyes of everyone, I curiously opened the short letter.

"Dear Miss MC, we are delighted to inform you that you have won the Grand Prize, a 'RV Travel Gift Package,' in the 'Love is on the way' lottery event held by the City Hall.

The relevant winning information will be sent to the email address you provided during the registration for the 'Hundred Days impressions' event shortly. Please check your email carefully."

Everyone: ……huh? MC: ……. MC: Ah!!

—

🚙 Day 1 (coming soon)

#gurl freaking won a RV in a lottery 😎#man i envy MC luck🥲#mlqc spoilers #mlqc cn #mlqc shaw #mlqc ling xiao #mlqc translations #mr love queen's choice #mlqc #love and producer

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auroradragon · 1 year

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Border Chase {Frontier Part 1} Alejandro x F!Reader

Summary: You're an American who's in the special forces. (c/n) in the fic is short for Code name. You were commanded to join colonel Vargas and his second in command Rodolfo Parra who are part of Los Vaqueros, along the border to capture Hassan Zyani.

Warnings: Violence, gun violence, near-death experience, death, cussing, etc.

Also... I've never learned Spanish, I really apologize for this especially if I were to get anything wrong grammar-wise, so for all my Spanish-speaking girlies, please ignore anything that may say or imply the reader doesn't know Spanish :)

Gif by icaxrus on Tumblr

You heard the yelps of coyotes as you walked along the border U.S. and Mexico wall looking at the dirt, dried brush, and cacti beyond the tall rusted fence. You were unsure of the area around you don't know much about the territory surrounding the border of Mexico. Although ever since you’ve been put on missions all over the country and out, you’ve learned to gain familiarity and adaptation to new and foreign places.

Laswell called you late that night since knowing you were down south of Texas lately at an army base. You were a highly trained and skilled soldier, you had earned your ranks because of your intelligence and combat skills, so when Laswell called you that night, she knew it wasn’t making a mistake. The two of you had met each other in person a few times and gained her friendship fairly quick. The feelings you had towards her when it came to trust was mutual.

You were provided with information about two men you’d be meeting up with. Alejandro Vargas and Rodolfo Parra. Why you were being put with two of the best soldiers in the Mexican Special Forces? You had no idea. But you didn’t push the question onto Laswell as you truly believed she knew what was best for you and everyone else involved in the situation.

You wore your American flag on your thick black bullet-proof vest. You had hooked your gun holders to your hip and loaded up on ammo. You were in El Paso Texas, a place you were barely familiar with, and on the search for a terrorist named Hassan Zyani, who was trying to illegally cross the U.S.-Mexican border. You knew nothing about him so far, the only thing you did know is that he’s a threat to this country, and is believed to be targeting major cities in the U.S., you weren’t told how, but you found it better not to pry.

You trail along the border listening and watching closely for any sign of smugglers. You stop in your tracks beyond a tinted light for cover before reaching for your mic that was strapped to your chest.

“This is (CN), where are these boys I’m supposed to meet?” You ask Laswell on the other line.

You wait a moment before she responds over the intercom.

“You can’t miss them if they cross over, I’ll put you on with them,” And then there was radio silence.

You heard a thump behind you from a distance. You quickly turn your whole body with your gun out. You face it toward the noise, the area was pitch black, and you didn’t see a single source of light. You started moving your feet towards the noise, still hiding from the yellow lights than hung along the wall to keep yourself invisible. Your steps were light and quiet as you made your way toward the caliginous terrain. You heard another loud pound against the solid dirt as though someone had just jumped.

“Stop right the-” You were about to flick on the light on your gun before you were cut off by the sound of intimidatingly close gunfire. The smell of gunpowder filled your nose. You dove behind a large rock as a shield unsure of where the fire was coming from,. The rust bars made the sound of bullets echo, making it impossible to tell where the source was coming from. You never heard a single bullet flick against the rock cover, so you weren't sure what the hell they were shooting at.

Then the fire ended almost as soon as it started. You heard static across your headset. While a few voices broke in.

“Despejado” You heard along with a few other lines you couldn’t translate since your Spanish sucked ass. You got up from where you sat, choosing to keep your light off to prevent jump scaring the two, you knew the men were Laswell's. You heard the sounds of hallow rusty iron as you see two men with their lights making their way down, as they haven’t yet seen you as you made your way towards them

“This is a friendly, please do not shoot me when you get down here,” you said over the intercom. You heard the thump of their boots hitting the floor. You walked up to them with your hands up so they wouldn’t shoot you, your gun wrapped with a strap around your shoulder.

“You let him get away?” The first man stomped towards you with anger expressed on his face. He wore tactical gear in army colors. Classic beige and army green. His brows were furrowed, had black hair, a thin beard, and intense dark eyes seething with anger and frustration. Your brows mirrored his, except with utter confusion. You didn’t see anyone pass through after the gunfire, hell you knew nothing about the area you were in.

“What- I didn’t see-” You started but the other man finished before you could

“Alejandro, we have to go” The other was getting irritated, but nowhere near as Alejandro

“Maldito gringas” He muttered before turning his back to you.

You rolled your eyes understanding what he just said.

The whole group of now three had turned in the direction where an intense crash was heard. You lifted your AR to your chest, both hands grasping it as you made your way with the boys who had already left before you to a citizen’s gate. They continued talking to each other in Spanish, probably expecting you to understand (you in fact did not)

“I’m sorry I don’t know very much Spanish, is there something you wanted me to do?” You genuinely asked.

“Why were you sent here if you can’t even understand what the hell we are talking about?” Alejandro asked in his deeper voice and thick accent.

“Like I said, I’m sorry, but I’m not going to be able to get anything done if Ya'll won’t help me understand” You huffed in more of a mumble to keep your voice quiet. You felt awkward in this position, your first impression with them was awful and now you felt like you were making demands from someone you just met.

“We are moving into town, we have to be careful about the Cartel, there will be more of them than us… That’s what he said'' The man translates with a much softer tone than Alejandro's

“Thank you…” You smiled through your words, hoping he’d get the idea that you never intended the venom in your previous words

“Rodolfo” He states his name

“(c/n)” You chose to say your code name, a habit that came out of preserving your identity.

You waved your lights around the ground listening to the boys’ footsteps and the sound of a dog barking in the neighborhood you were approaching.

“HEY! GET THE FUCK OUT OF MY YARD” You heard a man call from his home.

“Won’t you guys get in trouble for this?” You ask as Alejandro, who’s crossed into the U.S., unsure if police around the area know what’s going on, and that it's a bigger deal than what they usually see.

You are well aware of how hateful some people in the state of Texas are, and if they had any reason to shoot a motherfucker, they would.

“Yes” Rodolfo answers, with 0 hesitation

"Lovely" You sarcastically muttered followed by a sigh

Your group gets through the gate into the backyard of someone’s trailer home.

“Someone’s out there” You heard a woman state from her home as you flickered your light towards her as she stood in front of the window

“Hey, what the hell are you doing?!” The man storms out of his home, his door slammed against the side of his trailer.

“We are special forces. Stay inside” They quickly stumble back into their home with their hands up as Rodolfo points his gun toward them.

You ran across the street and made your way inside someone’s home through the garage, you couldn’t help but know you were completely violating someone and their property, but you still continued compelling to orders that Alejandro gave. You kept silent until you made your way through the home where the Terrorist, Hassan, had already flown through. The couple living there were scared shitless but again, you didn’t stop and continued through their gate and down an alleyway behind Alejandro and in front of Rodolfo.

The roar of an engine echoed through the alleyway. And like deer in headlights, you stood finding your nearest place to hide before Alejandro gripped your layered forearm and pulled you down next to him. You crouched behind a white vehicle clinging close to the man to prevent yourself from getting shot. You glanced up at him to see he was looking at you through the corner of his eye. You shuffled closer to his side to be able to peek out of the corner of the vehicle letting your gun go ablaze with Rodolfo following right after. It was hard to see. Dust flew into your vision, stinging your eyes, and the truck's headlights didn't help. When you heard no more gunfire, you knew it was safe to move.

With sirens blasting around the community, you made your way into another home and were told where Hassan was located. When the three of you ran into the street you were stopped by a roadblock of red and blue lights. They demanded you put you conceal your weapons as you walked forward with the boys. You place your gun on the street as you make your way to the police with your hands up in surrender.

“I'm Colonel Alejandro Vargas, special forces! We’re after a known terrorist!” He defends himself. Yet a cop had wrapped his arms behind his back ready to handcuff him.

A cop with a cowboy hat stops one of the cops from cuffing him, saying we were called by Laswell

“Heh, hard to tell you boys apart from the Cartel,” He says leaving you and Rodolfo stealing a ‘what the fuck’ glance from each other. As the cop begins to let go of Alejandro and asks where the suspect is then you see it. A pin of a military weapon races towards you from the second floor of the house behind the cop cars. By the time you had reacted, it was too late.

Everything around you is on fire, the bodies of cops lying motionless and bloody. Your whole body ached on the ground. Your back felt like it was banging against your body. You knocked your head down against the concrete too. Everything around you trembled and moved 100 miles an hour. The muffled noises slowly become audible. You roll on your side, breathing heavily after getting the wind knocked out of you. You press your weight on your aching arms and stumble up while grabbing your gun off the road. You pressed your back against the now-destroyed police vehicle. Your heart pounded against your chest, and at the same rate as your back and head pounded.

“Rodolfo! Alejandro! Are you okay?” You yell needing the sound of their voices to reassure you. The flames were blinding you from any view of the guys. The Cartel’s guns shot through the police car you tucked behind. You groaned in pain before getting up to face your weapon towards the enemy and let out a few rounds.

You walk low around the flames in search of your group members. You stand tall as you get past the blistering heat to find an enemy above Alejandro. You kick the butt of your gun against the man before he slumped against the pavement. When Alejandro looked up at you to see your bleeding forehead and loss of breath. You offered a hand. He looked at your hand then back up at you. He grips his hand in yours and stands up a little slumped, possibly in the same amount of pain as you. He mumbles a thank you. Rodolfo ran to the building while you and Alejandro keep the firefight outside to cover him.

Over a matter of minutes of a gunfight, you smelled a strong stench of smoke, nothing like the gunfire smoke from the bullets, no, it was different. Flares started emerging from the side windows of the house. Your eyes bolted open in fear for Rodolfo. Alejandro picked up on it mere milliseconds after you. You both looked at each other and knew what was flying through both of your minds. “Stay” He commands you. You stand up, watching Alejandro run inside the building. You heard the two continuously talk over the com in Spanish, again didn’t understand what they were saying but you at least knew they were still alive. You never took your eyes off the house waiting for them to emerge from the flames. After a while, they stopped talking over the coms and your body tensed in panic.

“Rodolfo, do you copy?” Your finger is still on the button of your mic, too scared to move it

“Alejandro?” Your voice cracks

You stood in front of the home to see Alejandro carrying a weak Rodolfo out of the front door. You immediately run to Rodolfo and help Alejandro pick up his other side to move him away from the house. An ambulance and more cop cars pulled up near the burnt cars. You carried Rodolfo toward the ambulance, they busted the door open and brought him inside. He forced himself to sit on the ground of the ambulance so they wouldn't place him any further.

“I’m fine-I’m fine” He coughed. His face was covered in smudges of smoke, and so was Alejandro's

You ran to a medic and got some water for him, you quickly gave him a bottle and watched as he chugged it down.

“... Are you sure you're alright?” You ask. He looks from his water up to you. He simply nods with a smile that only lasted a second.

“Still alive, aren’t I?” He asks. You give a bit of a skeptical glance before a medic came up to you.

You waved them off saying you were fine, but you were then given another water bottle to give to Alejandro. You look behind you to see him take a step back into an area that wasn’t being overrun by medics and cops. You were about to turn and walk to him before Rodolfo called for you.

"(c/n)" You look back at Rodolfo

"Don't take any... Rude things Alejandro says to heart" He looked up at you from where he still sat in the ambulance.

"It's nothing against you... He's just a complicated person" Rodolfo lets out a smile. You stick a hand out in front of him to shake.

"Thanks, Rodolfo" You smile as he shakes your hand as a farewell.

You turn around again and start to jog over to Alejandro but keep your distance as soon as you saw how strained his shoulders were. You slowly walk over closer to him and call out for him. He turns around aggressively before getting close to your face.

“If you captured Hassan as soon as he crossed the border, this never would have happened.” He spits, with an intense stare that is intense and menacing. You could feel your eyebrows dropping into a frown just for a second, but caught yourself looking at him with a glare, trying to give a confident lie, but really you already blamed yourself. You hadn’t given yourself time to think about the cops that were killed, who probably had families they expected to go home to that night, all because you weren’t quick enough to catch Hassan before he booked it to civilians. All because you didn't make a move as soon as you heard the first thump.

“I’m sorry” You squeak at this point. Every bit of assertiveness you had in yourself was now gone.

“'I’m sorry' isn’t going to fix what just happened” He glared and burnt his disappointment into your soul. Your fraud façade was over, and your face finally fell with shame.

You shoved the plastic bottle into his hand before looking back up at him. You turned away from him and walked back talking into your mic, calling for Laswell confirming your mission was unsuccessful and that Hassan got away.

(Word Count: 2740)

A.N I'm literally going to apologize for every story I make since I'm fairly new to posting fanfics. So if it's bad I'm really sorry :,) But if you made it this far, thank you so much for bearing with it, and Ily sm.