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orteil42 · 4 months

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some undifferentiated thoughts about my Starfield playthrough as i have them. i am a game developer with a strong interest in procedural generation and i've enjoyed a bunch of other bethesda games so this might get pretty mean sorry

(this is a long one)

starfield dialogue is already exhausting me "oh you must've been living under a moon rock ;)" get it! because they're in space! this would've been too corny for the Jetsons

there's a kind of cheap dusting of space theme over everything. the food isn't salmon but alien salmon. it's not seaweed but alien seaweed. cooking alien stir-fry. come on

cannot get over how clumsily the theming is handled. books, board games, weapon names revolve heavily around space. these people have been living on alien planets for hundreds of years yet have this unending sense of novelty about it. the game takes itself completely seriously but feels like it's attempting to parody itself

people's EYEBALLS are CLIPPING THROUGH THEIR EYELIDS

a woman is speaking to me in french. her accent is about as believable as her haircut

these are some of the worst reflection maps i've ever seen

next to nothing is interactive. you can sit in chairs and sleep in beds and that is about it. can't even drink from people's toilets. disgraceful

game helpfully crashes 5 seconds after i decide i should get some sleep. very handy!

my character has not said a single thing since i started playing. not one peep. this is an unmitigated improvement over Fallout 4 i'm so glad honestly

the more i poke around the big city the more the NPC quips feel like something out of gen-1 pokemon. can't get enough of this coffee :) this city is where it's at :) spacesuits are comfy and easy to wear

very strange sense of altered reality from the quest dialogue too. has anyone at bethesda met a person before? i move on to some mission that has me scanning wildlife on a faraway planet hoping this will, somehow, feel less alien than human conversation

just as with No Man's Sky, every planet is uniformly dotted with equidistantly-placed points of interest that you slowly make your way to (no vehicles besides your jetpack) which always turn out to be some cave or building identical to those you've cleared before

unlike with No Man's Sky, the seamless exploration is faked and the biodiversity is nil. you do get an impressive amount of raw loading screens however

the prefab bases and power stations found everywhere on planets seem to have very sparse, very specific slots for spawning consumables, which results in encountering some giant industrial installation in the middle of nowhere with, i don't know, a loaf of whole-grain sandwich bread just casually sitting next to it all proper. there is no breathable atmosphere here. who is eating this

planetary traversal is a CHORE. i am saying this as someone who loved Death Stranding

heinous "hold to confirm" buttons sprinkled in various flow-breaking places throughout the interface

enemy AI is abominable. nobody is pathing their way to get my ass. "must've been the wind" taken to the next level. an infant playing peekaboo has more object permanence

hoisting yourself up on ledges when jumping is…nice

companions randomly nowhere to be found. persists through multiple fast-travels and loading screens until, just as randomly, they pop back up

storage space is now limited! unlike in Fallout 4 and virtually every other bethesda game, your containers now hold a finite item capacity. god forbid we let the player have fun

baffling inventory UI. i imagine there's a mod out there that completely overhauls it the way SkyUI did for Skyrim. this should not be needed! how are your UIs getting worse a decade later!

scanning the precious few species inhabiting some dusty planet; one of them is this arching red root i've already seen several times before. my job done in this biome, i travel (read: teleport with a loading screen) to the polar region to find some other species. the first one i catalogue is the exact same red root again but this time it's named "boreas root" todd howard is a genius

some alien horror comes at me full fangs out. i hop on a pebble. obscenely, i am safe

procedural terrain generation beyond dull, impossibly unimaginative. these people have not had one critical thought on what makes a procedural world interesting. beginning to feel validated in my belief that only i should be trusted with proc gen. along with perhaps tarn adams

jokes aside this is making me feel genuinely insane. there have been excellent procedural generation techniques that produce compelling explorable maps for decades now. bethesda absolutely has the budget and know-how to do miles better than this yet somehow they just…do not? the same way Pokemon has decided to just no longer bother with their mainline games despite being the highest-grossing media franchise in history? hello? what is for real going on

some of the most cynical breadcrumbing i've seen in years. approaching some random cave and this person in space gear, who in the vast immensity of the infinite cosmos just happens to be snapping pictures right here, tells me more-or-less verbatim "if you like this place, you should see this other place" [other random cave has been added to your map.]

i do not like how good this makes No Man's Sky's gameplay look. it depresses me how much i have to hand it to No Man's Sky for at least not fucking up this bad. please stop making me wish i was playing No Man's Sky instead this is grotesque

i think i've exhausted my interest and patience for this game at the moment. i'll get back to the main story at some point and try some other systems ie. crafting and base-building to see if there's any engagement to be found but so far, my god. my god

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hairmetal666 · 8 months

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Read Part One here

cw: implied child abuse

Eddie's coming over for coffee. Not Eddie with Nancy and Robin or Eddie with the kids. Just Eddie.

They haven't been alone in 9 years and now Eddie is coming over for coffee.

They're friends, of course. After Vecna they didn't have much of a choice, but they've never talked about it--that they used to be something.

After Steve kissed Eddie goodbye for what turned out to be the last time, they didn't see each other again for months and months, except for a devastatingly fleeting moment in the Family Video parking lot. And the next time after that, Eddie's pinning him to the wall of a rickety boathouse, a broken bottle to his throat.

What's going through his mind, his body, at that moment is relief. For days, weeks, months, he ached for Eddie's touch again, and even though he was in danger, he relished in the push of their bodies together. Thought, if this is how he dies, he won't mind going.

But they don't talk about it, about them, because Eddie is on the run and Max is going to die, and they have to save the world, so there's no time. In the aftermath, it's the least of their worries, and now it's been almost a decade and Eddie is coming over for coffee.

The thing is, it's not like Steve has been pining away for a love long lost in the intervening years, and neither has Eddie. They've both had longterm, serious relationships; Steve almost got married. But for Steve...Eddie is the one that's lingered, the one that knocks around his ribcage on late sleepless nights, the one that makes him dream of what might have been. Because Steve truly loved his other partners, but Eddie--nobody will ever compare.

Someone is knocking a rhythm at his front door, and he can't stifle his smile even as his heart runs riot in his chest.

"Hey, man," he says, remarkably nonchalant as he takes Eddie in. Still beautiful, still brimming with energy; his smile wide and dimpled, bouncing on his toes.

"Harrington!" Eddie grabs him into a quick side hug, slapping his back. "Since when do you wear glasses?"

Steve chuckles, touching the horn-rimmed frames. "Oh, god, Robin forced me to get them back in '87? Too many concussions." He touches his forehead. "I usually just wear contacts."

"It's a good look," Eddie says. He's very much not looking at Steve, eyes roaming around the Chicago apartment he's been to many times before.

He watches as Eddie spots the display of his own books, index finger slowly slipping across the spines in a way that makes Steve remember when those same fingers would slide down his spine. He stifles a shiver, turns towards the kitchen.

"So, how's New York? How's the book coming?"

"Livin' the dream." It's not flippant, not like how most people mean it. Eddie leaks genuineness, always has. "The book though...it's a little rough."

Steve sets the coffee maker going, brings fresh pastries and a couple plates over to the table. "I can imagine. It doesn't--it doesn't have to be the same, you know?"

"Yeah, if only I hadn't written three other books leading up to the evil mind wizard," Eddie chuckles. He grabs a croissant and tears it in half. "It'll be alright, Harrington. I'll figure it out. I lived through it the first time, after all."

Steve doesn't remind him that he almost didn't, that they almost didn't. Instead, he pours coffee, listens as Eddie talks about how to fictionalize the worst month of their collective lives.

He splashes milk into Eddie's coffee, taps in three scoops of sugar. He carries it to where Eddie waits, still talking about the logistics of Vecna-slash-Henry-slash-One in his novel, but his words abruptly stop as his hands wrap around the porcelain.

"Steve?"

It's only then that Steve realizes what he's done--made Eddie's coffee like he took it back then, made it without thinking, totally on muscle memory, when the best of his mornings were spent in Eddie's arms.

His cheeks glow crimson and he grips at the back of his neck. "S-sorry." He says. "It--is this still how you take it?"

"Yeah." Eddie's eyes fall from Steve's face, his own cheeks pink. "It's--yeah. Still the same."

"I'm sorry--"

"--Steve, I--"

They don't laugh. They both stop speaking and look at each other, faces still red. Steve thinks there's nothing for it but to get it all out now.

"I'm sorry, Eddie." He takes a deep breath. "I'm sorry I never came back. I'm sorry I didn't explain why. I'm just--really, really sorry."

Eddie's eyes are hooked on the table top, fingers twisting and twisting his coffee mug. "Can I--why? I waited and you--why?"

Steve swallows, but it gets stuck in his throat, and now he's the one who can't look up from his hands.

"My parents got home early," he manages. "My dad, he was waiting for me. I guess one of the neighbors thought it best to tell them who I'd been spending my time with."

Silence falls over the table, and he chances a look up at the man across from him, the one whose knuckles bite into his lips, whose eyes shine with unshed tears.

"You should've called me. You should've--you could've stayed with us. We would've kept you safe."

"Eddie, I couldn't. I physically couldn't," the admission costs him so much.

"Steve," Eddie chokes on his name, voice nothing but anguish. "Did anyone--You could've--you were all alone."

He shakes his head. "Robin knew. She snuck through my window to take care of me, but my parents--I couldn't--" This time the words really won't come. "We made a plan. We started that job at Family Video, and we saved up our money."

Now, Eddie's face is creased with grief. "Sweetheart, I'm so sorry."

Steve shakes his head, smiles despite the wreckage around his heart. "You have nothing to be sorry for, baby. I left you with no explanation. I broke your heart. And--and--" He thinks, what does it hurt to say it at this point. "I love you. I love you so much. I convinced myself you were better off without me, that we could have a clean break and you could get over me."

Eddie's hands cover his face, muffle the sob that slips out. "Get over you?" He whispers. "There's never been one like you, sweetheart."

He slides around the table to kneel at Eddie's side. "Hey." Deep brown eyes stare back at him, Eddie's face wet with tears. "It's always you, Ed. Always. I didn't want to say anything, if you had moved on, but--"

There's not really any transition from them talking to them kissing; Steve slips into it like he did all those years ago, when he first asked for Eddie's kiss. Their mouths slot together, their bodies fit like they always used to, perfect puzzle pieces. Steve's knees give out at the first brush of Eddie's tongue, and they collapse into a heap on the kitchen floor. Even then, they don't part.

Eventually, Steve does break the embrace, face flushed and hair a disaster, glasses hanging off one ear. "Okay, trying to be responsible here. Should we take a pause, go on a date first? Slow down?"

"Nine years isn't slow enough?" Eddie's pupils are blown, hair frizzed around his head.

"When you put it that way," Steve can't help but laugh. "I just want to do right by you, Eddie. Make up for--everything."

Eddie grins down at him, that sunshine beam smile where his dimples pop. "Tell you what, how bout you take me to bed now, and I'll let you take me on a date tomorrow?"

"Oh, you'll let me?" Steve rakes a hand through Eddie's mane of hair. "I don't think you'll have any choice."

"You sure about that, Stevie?" Their lips are so close, the brush with every word.

"Uh-huh," Steve's having trouble keeping his eyes focused, overwhelmed by the sheer force of Eddie Munson. "Never letting you go again, Ed."

Surprise! Part 2! I genuinely had no intention on doing a follow-up, but so many of you asked so nicely that it gave me this idea. Sorry if I miss anyone in the tag list and thank you for reading! @everywherenothere @tiny-enthusiast @emma-elsa-0000 @fuzzyduxk @moonythepluviophile @anaibis @rhapsodyinalto @bunk12bear @tillystealeaves @velocitytimes2 @s-trawberryv-eins @marklee-blackmore @ignoremyworld @its-a-me-a-morgan @goodolefashionedloverboi @starman-jpg @djohawke @adaydreamaway08

#steddie #steve x eddie #steve harrington #eddie munson #getting back together #mutual pining #fluff #ficlet #part 2 #time jump #a tiny bit of angst #here's the happy ending #implied child abuse #part one was august i guess part two is the one #we were something don't you think so #and if my wishes came true it would've been you #jk eddie is the one #they're in love your honor #steve's parents are pieces of shit

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ms-demeanor · 4 months

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sorry if you've answered this before, and i hope you don't mind me asking, how do you know so much about computers and what seems to me like everything in the world? how did you become so knowledgeable? it's amazing

i just know a little about a lot of things and I probably have a fair number of things that I've dug into more than most people and less than people who actually focus on that stuff! It's kind of an illusion!

I do know a lot about computers and that's because I've worked at a computer company for 12 years and have been deep into a computery subculture for about 20 years - I do genuinely know a lot about consumer computers. That I'll own and that's experience.

I know a fair amount about literature because I've got a degree in it!

I know a fair amount about journalism because I've got most of a degree in it and I worked with journalists for a long time!

I know a fair amount about nutrition because I've got most of a degree in it and because I've been focused on reading a lot about nutrition for more than a decade because of my own food issues!

But mostly I'm just someone who falls down rabbitholes and has a decent ability to recall what I find when I run down them.

Also I get curious about things and will just go. Experience them.

Like at some point i came across a site for people who own and use RealDolls and I got interested in learning more. The site required an application because they didn't want people just trolling so I applied and I ended up reading through the whole site and reading the magazines they sent out for years after because it was just interesting. The way these guys bought clothes or compared repair techniques and cleaning techniques, the way they constructed identities for their dolls - it was all interesting! So now I know about the proper way to store a RealDoll and how their skeletons are put together and the best way to prevent rips or clean inserts.

Now imagine that with everything.

I got interested in quack medicine so I ended up reading the entire back catalogs of quackwatch and science-based medicine.

I got interested in the history of aspartame as a scare-word and I ended up reading a couple of books, SEVERAL entire blogs with decades-long runs, purchasing a military magazine from the 90s, and submitting a FOIA request.

But, like. I don't own a RealDoll or work in that industry. I am not a medical professional. I am not a chemist who works with aspartame. So I get these weird little collections of information where I know what *seems* like a lot to someone who hasn't looked into it but I know a lot less than someone who has taken the time to actually dedicate themselves to that topic.

And sometimes it's a years-long dive and sometimes it's a months-long dive and sometimes it's a few hours of me digging online until I feel satisfied with what I've learned and I never come back to it, but I've got three more talking points than your average joe at a party would.

(Also though I've attended various colleges at various levels for ten-ish years now and I've taken probably more college-level classes on a lot of subjects than most people have because I've now spent several years just kind of kicking around at community colleges and deciding that a cartooning class sounds fun or that a mesoamerican art class fills certain transfer requirements or that I might as well brush up on spanish, french, and german. Access to low-cost college classes in california is a big part of this, and having the time and money to take classes while i'm working is something that I've been very lucky with)

I've also worked pretty much continuously since I was 18, sometimes holding multiple jobs at once, and I know a lot of interesting people who do a lot of interesting things and I ask them about their interesting experiences and if they offer me a chance to go do cool shit with them, like launch a high altitude balloon or blow up some dynamite that's about to expire or join a band, I do it!

I was also one of those kids who had no friends and spent too much time at the library so I'd do things like read through medical textbooks or pull a book of home chemical formulas out of the trash and read it or take it into my head that I was going to read all of Shakespeare before I got to high school so I was a really annoying twelve-year-old and that kind of thing never really let up.

I don't know! I don't think it's that unusual and I think most people do this kind of thing I just happen to have less focus than a lot of people and talk a lot more.

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heich0e · 2 years

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"You're taking fucking forever in there."

You ignore Levi's irritated comment as you fiddle with the buckles on your shoes, too tiny to clasp easily and at a part of your ankle that requires your legs to be both tilted and bent to access them. A lethal combination in opposition to your dexterity.

"Are you sewing that dress by hand or what?"

His voice is nearer to your bedroom door now, a little bit more difficult to tune out with only the thin wood between you.

"No, my little mice helpers are doing that for me while I sing to them," you call back, but your words are light and flippant where his were heavy with the weight of his impatience.

"It wouldn't surprise me if you did have your own army of vermin with the amount of junk you've got in this apartment." You can't see Levi's face but you know he's looking around your living room with his nose crinkled in the particular way he does when he finds something distasteful.

You scoff as you finally succeed in doing up your second buckle. You lift your head so you can snap your rebuttal directly towards your closed door.

"Sorry we can't all live like minimalist monks!"

Levi snorts in reply. "I'm hardly a minimalist, I just don't accumulate needless things."

"You only own one bowl, one plate, and one mug."

You've known Levi since college, and you're fairly certain he has the same amount of possessions filling the entirety of his one-bedroom apartment that he did in his one-room dorm a decade prior. Probably the same ones, too.

"That way no one ever tries to come over for meals, it's clever."

"It's spartan."

There's a light thump on the other side of your door, and you wonder what it may have been.

"Didn't you ever read those Marie Kondo books?" Levi's voice is impossibly close now, like he's got his forehead pressed to your door. The thump makes a little more sense.

You laugh a bit to yourself as you imagine the way he's slumped against the expanse of wood, long-dressed in his suit and ready to go where you've taken your time getting ready. It's not your fault Levi showed up thirty minutes earlier than he said he would to pick you up for the company party your shared workplace was throwing that evening--though you should have expected it, given he's never been tardy to anything in the entire time the two of you had been friends.

"Can't say I did," you reply as you cross your bedroom, leaning over in your mirror to get one last close-up look at your face. You run your thumbnail against the edge of your bottom lip where your gloss was slightly ill-applied. "Why do you ask?"

"S'all that," Levi sighs, "'spark joy' bullshit. Don't keep things in your space if they don't make you happy or whatever."

You smile at your own reflection, eyes flickering to the image of your bedroom door you can see in the glass.

"And what if all my 'junk' makes me happy?"

There's some shuffling, and a moment later Levi mutters: "How can an issue of a magazine from 2010 make you happy?"

You suspect he's plucked an old copy of some fashion magazine off the stack resting on the bookshelf beside your door. You've actually been meaning to throw those away for a while, but you don't tell him that.

"How can you manage to not find happiness in anything?"

"That's not true," he argues.

"Oh yeah?" you counter, adjusting the way your necklace is resting against your collarbones. "Name something that you keep around just because it makes you happy."

"My kettle."

"Nope," you answer immediately, grabbing your purse off the end of your bed and heading towards the door, "that serves a practical, utilitarian purpose. I mean something useless that you just like. Just something you think is pretty."

You grasp the handle and pull it open, and you take Levi by surprise--he barely catches himself with a hand on either side of the door frame to keep from crashing into you.

There's a little pink mark at the centre of his brow where he'd been leaning against the door, and his eyes are wide.

"You ready to go?" you ask him, tucking your bag under your arm.

He's frozen, his expression still a little taken aback.

"What?" you ask him, suddenly self conscious. Your hands tug at the material of your dress nervously. "Should I change?"

"No," he says, soft but sure. "You look... fine."

Your face pinches.

"Fine?"

"Nice," Levi corrects himself, finally looking away. He fiddles with the stack of magazines he'd been complaining about moments prior. "You look nice."

"Wow, Ackerman, with compliments like that it's shocking that you have to take your best friend as your date to the company party and not one of the countless women I'm sure are knocking at your door."

Levi narrows his eyes, tossing you a withering look.

"You're the one who said we should go together."

"That's because I want to blackout at the open bar, and you're the only person I know who turns down a drink on the corporate dollar," you say with a bright smile.

Levi tuts in annoyance, crossing his arms over his chest, his eyes wandering away from you again. "Charming."

A beat of silence passes.

Levi sucks in a little breath.

"You."

"Pardon?" you ask, and not even because he said it so quietly you barely understood him, but because it doesn't quite make sense.

"Something I keep around just because I like it," Levi says, his eyes fixed so intently on the outdated magazine stack that you're surprised the pages don't burst into flames. "Just because it makes me happy..."

Your heart stutters in its rhythm, a sudden weakness in your knees you can't chalk up to the height of your heels as easily as you may have liked to.

"...Just because it's pretty."

You swallow thickly.

His eyes meet yours.

The time and space between the two of you is thick and sweet like honey, and you wade through it slowly as you fight to find your words. You swear you can almost taste it as your tongue peeks out to moisten your already glossy lips.

"We should probably go," you say quietly, reaching out to adjust the lapel of Levi's suit. If your touch lingers a moment longer than it ought to, if your fingers brush against him in a way that friends' shouldn't, neither of you says anything about it.

Levi nods and clears his throat, taking the slightest step away from you towards your front door. "We gotta get you back before midnight after all, Cinderella."

You blink, a little confused, a little dazed, a little bit of a head rush still clouding your thoughts.

"The mice, remember?" Levi offers when he sees your curious look, stuffing his hands into his pockets.

"Oh," you laugh, letting your head hang as you nod slightly. "Right."

The two of you make your way down to the parking lot outside of your apartment building towards Levi's car, and you watch as the lights flash when he unlocks it.

"I've got two mugs, by the way," Levi says as he pulls the driver's side door open, and you pause with your hand on the handle of your own. He looks at you over the roof of his car, his eyes suddenly firmer than you'd seen them all night. More insistent. More sure.

You tilt your head, confused.

He ducks down to slide into his seat, but not before calling back to you one last time:

"The other one is yours."

#levi ackerman x reader #levi ackerman x you #levi x reader #levi x you #levi ackerman #aot drabble #aot writing #writing #here u go anon idk what this is

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neil-gaiman · 1 year

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Hi, Niel. I’ve been a fan of your work for a long time now. I appreciate everything you do, as an artist and as an activist. I’m writing you about a problem I’m having with one of your works. It’s nothing to do with the work itself but my own personal context surrounding it.

My best friend of ten years loved Coraline. It was probably her favorite thing of all the things in the world. She had no idea there was a book, only that she loved the movie. I gave her my childhood copy of Coraline to read and, though she wasn’t much of a reader, she loved it. From there, I encouraged her to read more of your work. As much as she like Sandman or the Graveyard Book, she always came back to Coraline.

Cut to today. My friend of ten years has abandoned me. To make a long, painful story short, she turned her back on me after my mother’s murder, a time when I needed her most. She made sure to tell me that she never loved me, that she never wanted to be my friend all these years, that she did it because she felt sorry for me and that I’ve always been an annoyance and a burden to her.

It was hard to take, to say the least. This leads me to the problem I’m having.

I can’t stand to look at anything related to Coraline anymore. As much as I love it too, it fills me with dread to see it, because all I can think about is how badly I want to share it with my friend. I love giving gifts to the people that are important to me. I would gift my friend every Coraline related item I would see. And now, seeing the dolls, the bags and pins, and of course watching anything from the movie, makes me want to break down all over again.

It’s been almost a year since this happened but my heart still hurts when I see that yellow rain coat. I guess I’m telling you all of this because I want to know if you have any advice. I can never see my old friend again. She’s gone from my life completely but, pieces of her still haunt me.

I want to be able to watch Coraline again without crying. I want to read the book and not feel like I’m this tremendously horrible person that doesn’t deserve anyone’s friendship. I just don’t know how to go about healing that.

Thank you for your time, Niel. I hope that you’re well.

You aren't a horrible person.

I'm sorry that your friend wasn't worthy of your friendship. Friendships that fade and end often hurt worse than romantic heartbreak, because they don't end cleanly, because decades later you still aren't sure why a friendship ended.

I'm sorry about the fallout, too. As you say, the ghosts of the friends we once had still haunt us.

Coraline will always be there, when you need it, when you need her.

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hanjsquokka · 4 months

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Better Than The Books - [ Han Jisung ]

📚 SYNOPSIS : Growing up, you were a sucker for romance. The thought of finding the one was your dream since you were kid. You were searching for true love in the wrong places because the only one you needed was right next to you.

GENRE : romcom, fake dating, best friends to lovers, idiots in love, college au, fluff, smut, slight angst

PAIRING : han jisung × fem!reader

CONTENT WARNING : will contain swearing, mature content such as drinking, smut (probably?), and a mean minho (but i love him very much so no hate <3)

minors dni. if you click read, you agree to nsfw content

RULE NO. 1 - make minho jealous : You thought you found love when you dated Lee Minho — the resident bad boy of your college. He dropped you off at your classes on his motorcycle, took you out for late night rides and gave you flowers. But you were just another girl for him. He broke your heart, leaving your one and only best friend Han Jisung to pick up the pieces. You wanted to get back at your ex-boyfriend for playing with you like that. How? You fake date your best friend of course.

WORD COUNT : 2.5K

TAGLIST : @raeinydays @moon0fthenight @skzstaykatsy @imsiriuslyreal @rockstrhanji @bbokari711 @cupidcures @chans-muffin @adestayskz @hyperpixie

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The neon lights were almost blinding as music vibrated throughout the club. Hot, sweaty people moving to the beats as they danced all around. The air smelled of beer. Your own shot glass of vodka was in your hands as you swayed to the music. The adrenaline still hadn't worn off from the performance that ended a few moments ago. The boys were done, as far as you knew, so he'd be here any second. It was like he did it on purpose, flaunting those dark curls — a hairstyle you mentioned might look good on him. You hadn't expected for him to actually sport it at his band's first performance in a club off campus. Paired with that black shirt and those chains and rings — all train of thought left you as you downed your nth shot of vodka.

Maybe it was because of the alcohol coursing through your system, you thought it was him who was walking towards you with that lustful gaze. Jisung wrapped his hands low around your waist and pulled you closer. “How was I?” His voice was deep and seductive. His fingertips sent sparks of electricity wherever he touched you.

His mere presence sobered you up almost instantly, that faint buzz in your brain going away. “Amazing. As always. I like your hair.” Your hands went up to touch the dark locks. Blurred lines of friendship, but who cared? Maybe the rational part of you did, wondering if this was all a game or not. It was you who started it, but Han Jisung hated losing. He was going to make sure he was victorious and he was going to make sure he enjoyed teasing you along the way.

“Someone mentioned I might look good in them.” A smirk played on his lips as you met his eyes again. You could stare at him for ages and never get bored. His honeyed skin. His big brown eyes. That heart shaped smile. Rules were flying out the window as you felt a magnetic pull from him, drawing you closer. He was like a siren and you were his prey, his alluring voice being the only thing he needed to lure you into his trap. You felt like you were thirteen again, realizing that you have fallen for your own best friend. Even though it's been a decade since then, the feelings were still fresh. And now… all you had to do was close the distance. “Y/n…” He murmured. His lips were so close. “I'm sorry —”

Two weeks earlier

Of all days, today was the day your alarm decided to betray you. Final exams were coming up and your professor told the class he'd be taking a special lecture to cover everything on the syllabus — but your alarm just chose to not ring and you ended up missing the entire 10AM class.

Okay, maybe it wasn't a good idea to stay up reading romance novels after you finished studying but in your defense, you've had a rough week. You thought you found love when you dated Lee Minho — the resident bad boy of your college. He dropped you off at your classes on his motorcycle, took you out for late night rides and gave you flowers. But you were just another girl for him. He broke your heart exactly three months after he made it official. At the café where you went on your first date with him.

In his words, I'm sorry Y/n but you're just not it for me and I met this other girl I really liked.

Dick move, Lee Minho.

You went through the five stages of depression in the span of three days only to wind up at stage two again — anger. It infuriated you to know that Minho did not, not only to you, but so many other girls. Your friends warned you about him being a player. But your naive self thought you could change him.

Bullshit.

The past day and a half, you were only thinking about one thing — how to get back at him. How do you show him that he is just another guy and that you could do so much better. You ended up reading. Reading calmed you down and gave you a peace of mind. At least that's what you told yourself every time you picked up a book. Last night, you read Better Than The Movies at two in the morning, fueled only by Red Bull and the need to know if Liz and Wes kissed or not.

Romance novels were your thing. It was what bonded you and your mother before she passed away. She read fairytales about a princess finding her prince and living happily ever after, away from evil stepmothers and wicked witches because true love triumphed over all right? You've always believed in the concept of love and soulmates. You believe that the one for you was out there, waiting to be found.

You thought it was Minho until he ended up as an asshole.

“Matcha frappuccino for the lady.” Jisung set down a coffee cup with your favorite Starbucks drink, instantly brightening up your mood. You picked it up and gulped down quite a bit of the cold drink. Jisung chuckled, setting down his baseball hat and running his hand through his hair. “I just blew half my wallet on that and you finished it in less than a minute.”

“Very funny. I just love coffee. Especially this very specific coffee.”

“Because it's expensive?”

“Because I only get to have it when someone buys it for me cause I am broke and I cannot afford this.” Jisung rolled his eyes to your response. Your best friend had been unusually kind this week — you figured it was the whole Minho thing. He was well acquainted with your ex-boyfriend because his band mates from 3RACHA were in the same class as him and they were his friends. You've known Jisung for longer than you can remember. It was like you two were destined to be friends. Your parents were friends which ended up in you two becoming friends. You were also, coincidentally, born only a day apart and lived right next door to each other.

He was the one constant thing in your life. He was there when you fell down a slide and scratched you knee. He was there when you first learned how to ride a bike. He was there when your mom died. He was there when your dad married another lady. You didn't hate your stepmother, no, she was actually a nice person. But Jisung was there during every cross road you had in life. You were practically joined at the hip and you knew everything about each other. Your bond ran so much deeper than it seemed.

Of course you had a silly little crush on him when you were twelve but that crush soon died when he go his first girlfriend and then another and as the years went by, that crush dulled out. You were happy with him being your best friend.

“Earth to Y/n?” Jisung waved his hand in front of your face. You blinked out of your little daydream and focused back on him. “This is why you're not supposed to stay up so late studying.”

“Fun fact, I wasn't studying.”

He groaned. “Reading? Really?” He ran his hands through his dark hair. “Which book?”

“Better than the movies.”

“Ah, that one with the romance obsessed girl? What was her name… Linda — no, Liz! Yeah, Liz. I can see why you like it.”

You looked at him quizzically. Han Jisung didn't like romance novels so he certainly didn't read them. At least that's what he told you. Never in your whole life have you seen him read anything other than manga. Half of his ego was because of his abnormally large collection of manga and anime. “How do you know the main character's name?”

“You were literally texting me about the book yesterday.”

“Oh yeah.” You still didn't remember texting him, but then again you probably did and you forgot because lately you seemed to have the memory of a goldfish.

“I think you should dial down on the caffeine.”

“Would you rather me drinking beer?”

“Oh god no. You're a nightmare when you're drunk.” Jisung laughed, which made you laugh too. He had a way of distracting you from whatever you were thinking about — in a good way. He didn't want you to get too into your own head, especially with what happened with Minho.

Your expression fell as soon as you thought about the boy. You just couldn't stop thinking about it. What did you do that made him uninterested? Where did you go wrong? Was it the lame jokes you made? Or how you dropped by his class every now and then so you could go somewhere for lunch?

Minho was a reserved person. To everyone else, he was a cold, yandere-type guy who was a player. To you, well, he was someone you loved dearly. Loved. Past tense. You hated him now. You hated him since the moment you saw him with another girl right in front of you. The same girl he told you not to worry about. So ironic, you mentally scoffed.

Two can play that game.

“Holy shit, you're actually insane.” That was Han Jisung's first reaction to your crazy idea. He started to pace around his apartment while you sat on the couch. “Don't just sit there and act like you haven't dropped a bomb on me!”

“It's a good idea.” You replied nonchalantly.

“Good idea? Good idea? Y/n, for the love of all things holy- the only way to describe your idea is insane. It's insanity. It's right up there with robbing a bank. Actually, robbing a bank would be easier.” He let out an exasperated sigh. “I need a drink.” He went to his fridge and took out a bottle of tequila and a small glass. After downing the cup, he turned back to you. “Let me get this straight, you want to fake date me — your best friend of the past twenty three years of our existence — just to get back at your ex-boyfriend? To make him jealous?”

“Yes.” You nodded.

“You want me to kiss you and hug you and go on dates with you?”

“Fake dates.” You clarified.

“Oh right, sorry. Fake dates.” He said sarcastically, rolling his eyes as he went back to pacing.

“And no kissing unless absolutely necessary.”

“Of course.” He massaged his temples before he turned around and walked towards where you were sitting. “Y/n. I ask this with pure love.” He crouched down right in front of you with the most concerned expression you've ever seen him in, placing his hands on your cheeks so you could look him straight in the eyes. “Have you lost your shit?”

Only Jisung could say something like that with an expression like that. You stood up from the couch and face him while crossing your arms. Jisung stood up as well, his hands in his hoodie pockets. “You're making this such a big deal. Everything is gonna be the same. It's just the both of us hanging out. We'll go to fun cafés or that amusement park you've been wanting to go to —”

“It's not a big deal for you.” He clenched his jaw and closed his eyes for a second before focusing on you again. You could tell there was so much more than he was letting on. He ran his hands through his hair and squatted to the ground with a loud groan. “You know I can't say no to you. Why are you doing this to me?”

“Two weeks. I promise. Two weeks and this is done and we can go back to being friends.” You said, trying to hide how desperate you were. “Please, Jisung.”

Usually, you could read your best friend like an open book. He was very expressive with his face and could barely hide whatever he was thinking of at that moment. But as the years went by, you could see he'd mastered the art of concealing his true feelings. Even now, you couldn't decipher what he was thinking behind those brown eyes as they became unfocused. “Why me? Why not… someone else you know?”

“Minho is not going to give a shit unless it's you. You're my best friend. You're the one guy I told him he would never have to worry about. Just like how he told me that she was just a friend. Just a friend, my fucking ass.” Your throat burned as you took a sharp inhale. “So are you going to help me or not?”

“I'll help you.” He said after a beat. He placed both his hands on the back of his neck and stared up at the ceiling. “I'll help you get your revenge.” He looked back at you. “But you have to promise me that we're going to be okay. I'm not risking my friendship over some dipshit.”

“We'll be fine. I promise.”

“You're confident.”

“Of course I am. What could go wrong?”

There was a flicker in his eyes and they darkened as he strode towards you, leaning down so you were eye to eye. He was so close, you could smell the cologne you bought him for Christmas. “Promise me you'll still be my friend, no matter what happens. Promise me you'll never hate me. Promise me… that this is all pretend.” You swallowed thickly and nodded. The words were stuck in your throat the second he came into such close proximity to you in such a… sensual way.

This was not the Han Jisung you knew. The shy, playful boy you've hung out with all your life. This was the Han Jisung your friends rave about. The Jisung from 3RACHA, the youngest in their little trio, one of the hottest boys on campus (your friend's words, not yours). You knew he wasn't a virgin by all means. He had his fair share of girlfriends and one night stands. But he was decent about it. You never understood why he kept breaking up with people, but you knew he wasn't someone like Minho. He wasn't dating for the thrill. But now… You didn't know what to think.

“Are you sure you can handle this?” He questioned, not moving a muscle. You were so close, you could feel his breath on your face and the minty smell from the gum he was chewing. Could you handle this? It was like he threw a lit matchstick onto kerosene. An old dull flame sparked inside you. A feeling you'd tucked away into the farthest part of your heart because you knew that Han Jisung was unattainable. He was your best friend. But with this new idea, you weren't sure how far you could blur the lines before friendship turned into something far more dangerous?

AUTHOR'S NOTE : I was so excited while writing this and I wanted it to be perfect, you know? So I rewrote the scenes multiple times. Let me know what you guys think <3

©hanjsquokka | copying, translating or republishing my work is strictly prohibited

#han jisung #han jisung stray kids #han jisung x reader #han imagines #han x you #skz #stray kids #skz imagines #skz x reader #skz fluff #skz scenarios #han jisung fluff #han jisung imagines #han jisung angst #han jisung x y/n #han jisung x you #stray kids han #han skz #( 🎤 ⸻ my works / han jisung )

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words-etched-in-her-skin · 4 months

Text

.•°☆..•.▪︎.°

You stopped in front of the library door before entering, taking a moment to fix your collar and straighten out your vest. The Lady had requested you meet her there at ten o'clock sharp, so you still had a few minutes to spare anyways. The smile that coated your lips had been there since earlier that evening, from the moment the Countess had pulled you aside at the Christmas party to inquire about your plans for the evening.

Of course you had none - even if it was Christmas. A day meant for warmth and the company of family and friends. Which, if you were being honest, you had neither - not really. Most of your family disowned to when you made the decision to come and work at the castle. And as for friends.. well, while there were a couple of maids that you occasionally spoke with, you passed most of the staff in age by at least a decade. Not that you considered yourself old - not by any sense of the word. And if it didn't bother Alcina.. well, then, what did it matter, really?

Still, you'd be lying if you said you hadn't been surprised when the Lady asked you. A slight twinkle to her eyes when you agreed.

The warm light that now radiated from under the massive door confirmed that she'd already lit the fire. And as soon as the clock began to strike ten, you slowly turned the door handle.

"My Lady?"

Your voice was quiet as you entered the large room, firelight dancing across the endless rows of reading material. The nostalgic smell of decaying paper and old books a more than pleasant mix with the newer scent of burning wood.

"Hello, dear."

Alcina's voice caught you off guard, making you jump. Words quickly losing themselves as soon as your gaze fell upon her, your mouth falling open. There she was, curves encased in firelight and draped in a crimson nightgown. A matching sheer robe adorning the width of her shoulders. Her position that of a goddess, laid on one side with an arm resting comfortably under her head. Her shapely figure soft against the warm glow and undoubtedly inviting.

"Ah-" was all you were able to muster out, making the Countess chuckle. A soft smirk curling at the corner of her lips as she took a sip from the glass wine she was holding, the warm liquid inside almost jewel like within its firey backdrop.

"Mh.. well said, pet."

Suddenly, the formal clothes that you wore were insufferably hot - unbearable even - a deep flush quickly taking over your body.

"Ah.. s-sorry, my lady.. you just.. look.. well, incredible."

You blushed deeply as you said it, but you didn't care. They were true. You had never seen a more beautiful sight in your life. And you were certain you never would again. Her raven lock hair and fair skin, basked in a glow that danced softly across the red fabric she adorned and flickered wthin her eyes. You swallowed hard and brought your fingers to the buttons of your vest.

"May I?"

The Countess nodded, leaning back. "By all means."

You let out a heavy exhale and quickly started the lengthy process, discarding your clothes as quickly as you possibly could before coming to sit in front of Alcina - wearing nothing but your underclothes. Her eyes were warm when she looked at you - filled with Christmas spirit.

Or maybe too much seasonal wine.

"What was that you were saying about 'looking incredible'?"

You bit your bottom lip and looked to the side. "Smooth, my lady."

"Honest, dear."

You were about to object when she placed her glass of wine on the ground next to her and pulled you close, her large frame casting you in a dark shadow. She was even more stunning up close, with heated embers dancing around her silhouette. Gods, you wanted her. You weren't sure how anyone couldn't. Not if they saw her like this. No way.

"You, ah .. you could kiss me, if you wanted...."

"Mh.. as you wish."

The tender kiss that met your lips was not what you were expecting. It was so soft and careful - gentle - as if your lips were the most fragile thing in the world. You placed your arms around your neck and pulled her a little closer, tongue dancing warmly over hers.

"Mmmmh." She moaned into you - tone aged, raspy.

Another sweep of your tongue as she had you on your back, kissing you deeply - profoundly. The sheer size of her encasing you as she leaned down.

"Spread your legs for me, pet."

You wasted no time in obeying her, discarding your panties as fast as you could. Her lips pressing firmly back into yours the moment they were off, large fingers coming to roam over your body. The Lady's eager mouth claiming yours over and over again, kissing you as if you were her only lifeline - your back arched and waiting for her.

"Ready?"

Is that even a question??

"More than."

The moment her finger slid into you, her mouth began to claim your flesh. Slightly intoxicated lips kissing up and down your neck, nipping at the soft skin of it as her finger thrusted in. You moaned - arms firmly wrapped around the Countess' neck, hips bucking into her. The subtle scent of mulled wine and cigarettes coating your skin as she slowly marked your body, making it hers.

"F-faster. Please."

"Mh.. needy."

You immediately screamed out when she picked up the pace, driving her finger into you at an overly indulgent speed - curling it with each thrust. You had never felt so good in your life. So warm, so aroused. Every inch of you covered in a deep flush as she pushed you closer and closer to your peak - steadily building the pressure deep within your core. Your need for her coating her fair skin and glistening in the firelight. She kissed you deeply again, tongue warming over yours as she slid a second finger in, pace immediately picking up.

"F-fu-"

You couldn't have finished your curse if you wanted to, a wholey heated orgasm rolling over you like bath water. Hips jerking as you muffled a scream into Alcina's kiss swollen lips and rode out your climax on her fingers. Her eyes half lidded as she looked down at you, a soft look of adoration coating their glisten. The next kiss that came was soft and gentle, allowing your breath to slowly steady.

"My lady-"

"Hush, rest."

"But.. you.."

"You will rest first, pet "

You gave in and nodded, Alcina's large frame holding you close as you breathed. The soft crackle of the fire and the steady of her breath the only sounds in the library - though, the distant sound of a winter's wind howling could be heard if you really listened. You snuggled into her chest, enjoying the Countess' unexpectedly warm demeanor for as long as you could.

"Merry Christmas." You murmured, making her chuckle.

"And to you." She replied, holding you a little closer.

•°☆..•.▪︎.°

#resident evil village #theo writes #alcina dimitrescu #lady alcina dimitrescu #lady alcina x reader #lady dimitrescu #lady dimitrescu x reader #lady dimitrescu fanfic #christmas smut #soft alcina #that seasonal wine really has quiet the pleasant affect 😌#also just the image of her in front of the first like that #so beautiful 🥺🥺🥺#anyways #happy holigays lovelies #✨♥��✨♥️✨♥️✨#resident evil

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draco-after-dark · 4 months

Note

Feral JD!!! I love this kinda stuff, and you already got some awesome art for it! I’ve been appreciating John Dory more and more lately, so it’s cool to find all the AUs

Got any specific scenarios you’ve been thinking about for him? Love to hear anything about it.

I also wonder about when he discovered he couldn’t read anymore, was he nonplussed? Disappointed? Didn’t realize it happened? How’d his brother figure it out and would they go about teaching him again?

I appreciate you! ✨💜👍 have a good day!

OOOOOOOOH I HAVE SO MANY ACUALLY

I'm having so much fun building his world out

I actually have a few scenarios in the works now and some mini comic ideas too, Just gotta finish them :]

The reading thing is actually an interesting point. To be honest it wasn't something I initial thought to hard about but now that you brought it up. Here are some thoughts I had on it.

(Also sorry this kinda long I got a bit carried away woops)

not being able to read does come as a shock to JD when he first realizes, It takes him a bit to come to terms with it and when he does realize its a "Shit, I really am a failure." kind of mentality.

Since he was just out in the wilderness reading and writing wasn't something he need to do, it was all about survival for him so something so simple as that never crossed his mind as a skill he could lose.

Not being able to sing/talk just sort of sprouted from when he turned grey and fully integrated himself to being alone, Truly alone. Just being by himself he never had a reason to speak, so eventual the years added up and he just couldn't figure out how to speak.

So I always figured Clay would be the first one to figure out that JD can't read. For some context JD has been away from any type of society for several years if not a whole decade at this point. just by himself out in the wilderness wander around from place to place. So loneness has set in hard and he hasn't had a conversation with someone since being on his own.

JD tends to approach his brothers when their on there own or hanging out with each other. He tends to avoid large crowds and sticks to the outskirts of pop village unless there is immediate danger within the village. They had a spider incident a week ago but JD dealt with that real quick. The village still has pretty mixed options on allowing him to stay but considering the brothers haven't even been able to get JD to come inside branch's bunker yet. It's not something the they have really considered or cared about yet.

Also for Clay figuring out JD cant read it would probably go something like this...

Being in a book club Clay can often be found reading books around pop village. So when its a beautiful sunny day. He decides that it's the perfect time to catchup on his latest book. That quickly becomes wishful thinking however when he feels the brush of fur against his arm. He's surprised to see John Dory crouched next to him head tilted leaning into his personal space. Just sort of staring at his book with a curious look on his face. He's not interacted this close to JD yet on his own, usually he only makes an appearance if Floyd or Branch are around. So being on his own with John so close makes him pretty nervous. Especially since previous interacts between the two of them haven't been the best. John may or may not have tried to attack him and Bruce at their first interaction. It was quite a shock to all the brothers when they discovered that not only Floyd but also John Dory had been kidnapped by the pop star wannabes. If Clay's being honest he didn't believe Floyd when he first told them that John Dory was still trapped some where in the dressing rooms. It didn't make any sense to him. Why would they keep leave John backstage for their big performance. Unless they had already sucked him dry of his talent. What they actually discovered Clay could have never seen coming. Their brother, their oldest brother was practically unrecognizable, In both behavior and colour. He still thinks about when they found him in that room huddled in the corner. The terrify snarl that came from him when they tried to get close. Heck. he didn't even know a troll could make such a noise. So what was he doing here with him now?

"Uh . . . hi?" Clay asked curiously his voice wavering slightly.

He could see John's ear tilt towards him so he must have heard him and was at least listening. Hopefully.

"what uh . . . what brings you here today?"

A low deep rumbled sounded out from John's throat has he lifted his hand nearest to the book and brought it closer to himself. Eyes flickering across the page. To Clay it looked as if he was trying to read the pages so without a word he tilted the book more towards JD and waited. Just watching him. As seconds turned into minutes he could feel the frustration growing inside his brother, from the way his brows knitted together, to the way he kept getting closer to the book. Like if he looked harder, tried harder it would all make sense. That was when it clicked.

He cant read. Clay thought.

He can barely talk, if grumbling even counts as talking. Can't read and chances are he cant write anymore ether.

With a scoff John shoves the book away from himself slides down from the rock to sit on the grassy earth below.

Clay felt odd. He wasn't sure what he was feeling. Pity? Hurt? No that wasn't quite right. Emptiness? A sense of loss? A mix of everything he guessed.

He never really considered how John must be feel. That it must be . . . frustrating. Not just being alone for so long that he unconsciously forgot things that always seemed so, basic. Normal to everyone. That writing and singing songs came so natural to all of them. That the once self-proclaimed leader of Brozone couldn't even read his own lyrics anymore. He could never imagine not being able to read again. Being left unable to communicate even the simplest of things, but here John was. Going through all that. Practically alone. Clay frowned well he stared down at his once proud brother and then a flicker of hope flashed through his eyes.

". . ."

"Do you want to read again?"

His ear perked up at that and his head quickly flipped back to Clay. An unreadable look in his eyes.

"I could teach you, to read, write, to talk again?"

He see the thoughts swirling through his eyes, the hope, that became to spark but that quickly disappeared as he sank back down towards the grass. I look of sadness crossing over his face as he began to fiddle with his claws.

"Do you not want to learn how to read again?" Clay aske bewilders

John huffed and stared at him with an unamused face

"well why then?"

John glanced to the side and gestured in way "carry on" sort of way.

"I don't understand."

John gave him a deadpan stare and flung his head to the side letting out a deep sigh.

Clay was thoroughly confused. what was he missing, what wasn't ne understanding. This was his brother, his older, former bossy, arrogant, obsessed older brother. So Clay wanted to try something. Something he had done in years.

"What, are you still to cocky to let your little brother teach you a thing or two?"

He huffed again, but this time it sounded more like a light chuckle followed by a quick eyeroll and after a few seconds John stared at him, one eyebrow raised like he was saying "are you serious right now?"

"So your telling me you'd rather sit on grass and feel sorry for yourself rather then spend time with your younger brother?"

Oh ya, That hit a nerve. If there was one thing John cared about it was his family, Family was apart of him and it always had been. His greatness strength and weakness. Something Clay figured out real quick when they were younger trollings. John must have felt as offended as he looked because next thing clay new he had already stood up and hoped right back up on the rock beside him.

"Same old Dory"

To which John responded by giving his brothers shoulder a shove and jerked his head towards the book down in Clay's hands.

"okay okay, will start with the basics . . ."

Don't know how in character this is for Clay but I tried guys. So yeah that's my thoughts so hopefully this makes sense.

Also if any Fanfic people out there stumble across this and start thinking they want to give try at writing some stuff for the Feral boi please do I would LOVE to read it. Like tag me please so I can read it and draw it.

Anyway imma go to bed byeeeeeee

#feral john dory au #trolls john dory #trolls band together #trolls #Feral JD au #mcdracoson asks

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pluckyredhead · 7 months

Note

hi! i'm new to comics and i got in through reading your fics and wayne family adventures. i've since started reading more of the mainstream verse and i realized that most comic fans consider wfa to be totally fanon. you're one of the few i saw that disagrees. would you mind elaborating a lil on why? i'm too new to really form an opinion either way but i'd like to know your's!

(also yes i really did stalk your blog back years worth of posts i'm sorry! 😭😭)

Aw I love this! Welcome!

So I think it's really important to be clear on definitions here:

Canon means it's part of an official text. It's literally in a comic (or book or movie or other property) published or licensed by DC.

Fanon means it's made up by fans. That doesn't mean bad or good, it just means that it comes from fandom and is not part of the official text.

Wayne Family Adventures is an official licensed comic by DC, so by definition, it cannot be fanon. That doesn't mean everyone has to like it, but it's not a fan comic. It's an official DC product. It's not fanon.

Now, WFA isn't part of the main DCU canon. It takes place in a separate universe. The Jason in Batman #138 and the Jason in WFA are not the same and they are having very different experiences. (And I'm sure the Jason in WFA would be grateful if he knew.)

But that's no different than a comic that takes place in an alternate universe, like Dark Knights of Steel or DCeased, or a movie like Blue Beetle or a show like My Adventures with Superman. They all take place in their own universes, but all of those universes are canon. None of them are fanon.

What I think most people mean when they say WFA is fanon is that WFA draws on tropes and characterizations that are popular in fandom. Which...yes, absolutely. This is on purpose, and honestly, it pisses me off when people complain about it. (Not you, anon! Your question was lovely, you just triggered my unskippable cut scene of dialogue. Sorry lol.)

Wayne Family Adventures is probably the single best idea DC has had in the 20 years I've been reading comics. (The second best was the kids and YA graphic novel lines.)

I just checked, and WFA has 1.3 MILLION subscribers. That's more than every floppy comic starring Batman sells in a month, combined. It's more than literally any superhero comic has sold in decades - in this century! The combined strips have over A HUNDRED MILLION VIEWS. That is bonkerstown. That is a readership like DC hasn't seen since the 1970s. That is unparalleled success, and it's introducing characters like Kate Kane and Duke Thomas to a whole new audience.

Now, WFA was clearly designed to appeal to Batfans who were active on social media and fanfic sites like AO3 and Wattpad, and Webtoon readers. The readership of Webtoon is mostly young and female. Fandom as a whole is mostly female. The writer of WFA is female.

And maybe I'm not being fair here, but when I see people dismiss WFA as "just fanon," I always catch a whiff of "It's not a real Batman comic. It's a girl comic for girls."

I have spent the past 20 years begging DC (and Marvel, DC is not alone in this) to see women as a viable audience - as their largest potential growth audience! I have watched in dumbfounded frustration as they ignored the juggernaut success of Raina Telgemeier and Ngozi Ukazu and Alice Oseman running rings around the NY Times bestseller list and counted a 50k shipment here and there as a resounding triumph. I have literally seen them throw out survey responses from women because "those women had an agenda." (This is a true story. 2011 was rough, y'all.)

And all of a sudden, they gave us a comic actually catering to women and young people and fandom, and they put it on the most popular, current, modern platform for comics availably - and it's brilliant. It's smart and funny and stunningly drawn and every episode makes clever, inventive use of the scrolling format. They FINALLY gave us a girl comic for girls, and it's a masterpiece.

And yes, it riffs on fanon concepts. It also has its roots firmly in mainstream DCU canon. It references deep cuts. CRC Payne and StarBite know their shit. Jason Todd being a bookworm may be a fanon staple, but he does plenty of reading - including Jane Austen - in the 100% canon mainstream DCU comics.

It's not going to be for everything, because nothing is. It's completely fine if you don't like WFA. No one has to read it or enjoy it. If you're into Batman for the darkness and the crime and the ongoing plotlines and the angst, WFA won't be for you, and that's totally fine!

But to finally, finally be valued as a reader by DC, to have them do something smart and innovative and so, so well executed, and have the exact people they made it for dismiss it out of hand because Bruce has a "World's Okayest Dad" mug or whatever? Yeah, that chafes.

#wayne family adventures #this one's gonna get me in trouble

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gingiesworld · 6 months

Text

Lily

Natasha Romanoff x GN! Reader

Warnings: Angst. Fluff. Happy Ending

Taglist : @natashamaximoff-69 @canvascoloredin @wizardofstories @louxbloom @wandanats-goodgirl @the-ox-fan20 @ladyqueenxoxo @aemilia19 @wandaromamoff69 @mfd-101 @dorabledewdroop @marvelogic @natsbraids

Word Count: 3.4k+

18+MINORS DNI

Y/N always found themselves sitting at Lily’s bedside, reading her favourite book. A small smile on both of their faces, since Lily’s mother had left the two once they found out the severity of her illness, Y/N was there with her everyday.

Everyday, they passed a red head who always disappeared into the room down the hall. Sitting beside her sister who had severe liver disease, although the blonde had never done any form of drugs or alcohol abuse, she was dealt a bad hand.

“So, the doctor said I can take you out for some fresh air today.” Y/N told Lily who beamed. “Of course it will only be to the hospital gardens but it is out of this room.”

“Thank you O’Pa.” Lily spoke as she looked at Y/N.

“You have nothing to thank me for.” They told her as they helped her get her coat on.

“You’re always here.” She started. “Everyday, you even do your work here too.”

“I would do anything for you.” They told her. “You’re the most important person in my life and I don’t know how I will cope once you leave me.”

“I’ll never truly leave you O’Pa.” She told them softly. A smile on both of their faces. They helped her get situated in the wheelchair, placing her fluffy blanket over her lap to help keep her warm.

Once the two sat side by side in the garden, Lily’s smile faltered as she thought deeply.

“Do you think mom will miss me?” She asked them as they sighed. Not really knowing where their ex was, even though they weren’t yet divorced, they only thought of Lily.

“Yeah.” They answered unsurely. “I’d like to think she wouldn’t be completely heartless, but she doesn’t deserve for you to think about her, not when she abandoned you.”

“She left you too.” She pointed out as they nodded.

“She did.” They spoke thoughtfully. “But the reason she left allowed me to truly see the person she is, and I don’t want someone like that around my sweet girl.”

“Do you think they’ll find me a liver?” Lena asked as she and Nat walked through the gardens.

“Maybe.” She whispered, although she was unsure, she wanted Yelena to have a little bit of hope. “I believe they will.”

“I don’t want to die.” She whispered, a tear escaping her eye as Nat was quick to wipe it away.

“You’re not going to die.” She told her firmly. “I am not ready to lose my little sister.” Nat’s eyes soon caught sight of the tired parent who sat beside their teenage daughter, a sad smile on her face as she could see the pain in their eyes, even as they smiled and laughed.

That evening, the two escaped to the canteen, both Lena and Lily were sleeping and the adults were in need of a coffee.

“Hi.” Nat greeted them as she stood beside them in the que.

“Hey.” They gave her a small smile.

“I saw you earlier, was that your sister?” She questioned as they chuckled.

“No, Lily is my daughter.” They told her as they walked back through the corridors. “My wife and I had her when we were in school, the marriage was the most stupid decision I ever made but Lily is everything to me.”

“Where is your wife?” Nat questioned as they chuckled lightly.

“You're very nosey for a stranger.” They teased as she nodded with a giggle.

“Well, I spend pretty much all of my time here, so I need some form of adult conversation.” She answered truthfully. “My baby sister has severe liver failure.”

“I’m so sorry to hear that.” They whispered as she nodded. “I guess it is lonely being here all of the time. I usually work from home but I brought my work here with me. Lily has a degenerative heart condition and has been on the list for the better part of a decade.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” She spoke tenderly as they shook their head.

“She’s not afraid.” Y/N whispered as they stopped outside of Lily’s room. “She knows that the likelihood of her getting a new heart within the next few months is extremely slim. So she’s made peace with it, and I guess I have to make peace with it too.”

“But it’s good to have hope.” Nat told them as they sighed.

“I did have hope, for many years I had hope but day by day, I started to lose it.” They looked up at Nat. “I’ve lost hope that she will get better, but I know that she won’t be in pain. She will be free of her pain.”

Both Y/N and Nat had spent most of their days together, even taking the two girls out to the garden. There was only a couple of years of age difference between the two of them, so they had got on like a house on fire.

What they never thought would happen would be that she would start to deteriorate rapidly through the night.

“I’m sorry.” The doctor spoke after giving their prognosis.

“Wouldn’t a transplant work?” They questioned urgently as the doctor shook his head.

“Her heart is barely beating, she is barely holding on.” He told them.

“There must be something you can do to give us more time.” They pleaded as Lily tried to call out to them. “I’m not ready. I’m not ready.”

“O’pa.” She called as loud as she could. “You’ll be fine.” They shook their head as they looked away, allowing the tears to fall freely. “How do we know if I am a match for Yelena?” She asked him as Y/N turned to look at her.

“You are a match.” He answered her. “But she isn’t at the top of the list.”

“What if I want to give my liver to her.” She told him. “Isn’t there some sort of waver that I can sign?”

“Yes.” He said as Y/N sighed before he turned to face them. “But I need your permission.”

“She has my permission.” They stated shakily. “If this is what she wants to do then I will sign whenever I need to.”

“Thank you O’Pa.” She smiled as the doctor left the room, soon returning to her with papers to sign.

As the days went by, Y/N never left her side, afraid that every second could be her last second.

“Promise me you will find happiness O’Pa.” She rasped out as they nodded, holding her hand.

“I promise.” They smiled tearily. “I love you so much Lily.”

“I love you too O’Pa.” Lily smiled before smirking. “Lena’s sister is pretty and single.”

“Lily. I am not looking for a relationship.” They told her.

“Maybe a friend then, you could use one.” She told them as they nodded.

“Maybe.” They whispered as she took a deep breath.

“I’m tired.” She told them as they gave her a tight lipped smile, tears filling their eyes.

“Sleep sweetheart.” They ran their hand through her hair, humming the lullaby she had always loved since she was a baby. Time felt as though it had frozen as they waited for the machines to beep constantly before stopping. Once the doctor had entered the room, muting the monitor before calling time of death. Y/N cried silently as they kissed her forehead one last time. Soon getting up and leaving the room for a moment as they prepared her for organ donation. Racing against time as they hooked her up to a bypass to remove the available organs.

“Y/N?” Nat questioned as she approached Y/N, a coffee in her hand. “No.” She whispered as they just nodded.

“She’s gone.” They spoke barely above a whisper. “The only person I had is gone. I have nothing left.”

“I’m so sorry.” Nat rested her hand on their back as they leaned forward.

“I’m going to be sick.” They started to run towards the bathroom, hurling themselves into an empty stall and vomiting the contents from their stomach. They collapsed to the floor beside the toilet, sobbing as they hugged their legs.

“Y/N!” Natasha ran to them, hugging them as they cried. “Is there someone I can call?”

“Pietro.” They whispered. “He’s been my best friend for years.” They handed her their phone after unlocking it. She soon found Pietro’s contact in the phone and dialed it.

“Hey Y/N/N.” He spoke as he answered the phone.

“Hi, is this Pietro?” Nat spoke.

“Yeah, where’s Y/N?” He questioned.

“They’re at the hospital, it’s bad.” Nat told him.

“It’s Lily isn’t it.” He spoke as a mere observation.

“Yeah.” She whispered. “They need you, Pietro, or someone.”

“I’m on my way.” He told her as soon as he hung up, heading straight from work to the hospital.

“He’s on his way.” Nat told them as they nodded.

“Thank you.” They whispered as they looked up at her. “How’s Lena?” They asked as they got to their feet.

“She is in surgery.” Nat told them. “They finally found a liver.” She watched their expression through the mirror. “It was Lily’s.”

“It was what she wanted.” They told her, a sad smile on her face. “She knew she was dying, she had known for years. She was ready.”

Y/N had soon accepted their daughter’s death, slowly moving forward with their life as she wanted. Returning to their apartment and work, slowly getting everything back to normal.

Of course, their ex never showed up, even after they had sent her a simple text, explaining the whole situation. She still never came to say goodbye to their daughter.

“Hey.” They heard a familiar voice as they waited in line at the coffee shop.

“Nat, hi.” They smiled at her. “How are you and Lena?”

“We are both great.” She beamed as she joined their side. “She is now cleared from the hospital.”

“That’s great to hear.” They beamed as Nat smiled.

“How have you been? I wanted to try and reach out to you sooner but.” She started as they shook their head with a small smile.

“That’s ok, and I have been coping.” They told her. “It’s slowly getting easier to get up as each day comes but I still miss her.” The two soon ordered their coffees and sat down at a table outside. Nat watched as Y/N lit up a cigarette. “But being back in the office has made it all bearable.”

“That’s great.” She smiled proudly at their progress.

“A friend of mine is hosting a barbecue this Saturday, would you and Lena like to join me?” They asked her as she smiled shyly.

“Yeah, Lena would love it too.” She answered them as they smiled.

“Great, here is my number, text me your address and I’ll pick you both up.” They told her as they handed her a card before getting up with their coffee in their hand. “I have to get back to the office. I’ll see you both on Saturday.” Nat waved goodbye as she watched them walk away through the crowded streets, a smile on her face as she watched them disappear.

“Do you think this is a good idea?” Wanda asked Y/N as they joined her and Vis for dinner. “Lily gave her liver to her sister.”

“I know.” They nodded. “But I just feel at ease with her, at the hospital, she was my only friend.”

“I’m sorry.” Wanda whispered as Y/N shook their head no.

“Wanda, you have the twins to think about, Pietro has work and Mon is pregnant. I didn’t expect any of you to put your lives on hold for me.” They told her confidently. “But Nat was a friend to me during the hardest time of my life.”

“I just don’t want you to get hurt.” She told them as they kissed her head.

“I know.” They smiled before helping her set the table. Everyone tried to make them feel as normal as possible.

“Y/N.” Vis spoke up as they all sat at the table. “I found her, Sharon.”

“Yeah?” They questioned curiously.

“I still have the divorce papers you had written up and signed, ready to send to her.” He informed them as they nodded.

“Send them.” They told him. “I am ready to cut all ties with her.”

“I will be sure to deliver them myself.” Vision told them as they nodded, a small smile on their face as everyone sat down, eating dinner as normal as can be.

The day of Wanda’s barbecue came around and Y/N was nervous about picking up Nat and Lena, bringing them to meet their family you may as well say.

“Hey.” They greeted as Nat answered the door. “Are you both ready?”

“Yeah, Lena’s just getting her bag.” Nat told them with a smile. Once the three of them were situated in the car, Y/N started the journey to Wanda’s. Nat was bouncing her leg up and down nervously as Lena listened to her music through her headphones.

“It’s going to be ok Nat.” Y/N reassured her, giving her knee a squeeze.

“I know I shouldn’t be nervous because it isn’t like we’re in a relationship.” She thought she said something wrong as Y/N’s smile faltered. “Not that being with you would be a bad thing because quite frankly, I would consider myself lucky if I was with you.”

“It’s ok Nat.” They smiled. “Although Wanda may be the tough one to convince, she is like a sister. Her, Pietro and I grew up together. She was the one who helped me adjust to helping Lily even though she had the twins.”

“She sounds special.” Nat whispered as Y/N nodded.

“She really is.” They confirmed as they soon pulled up in Wanda’s driveway. Helping both Lena and Nat out of the car before leading them up to the door, letting themselves in and heading straight to the yard, Pietro manning the grill, the twins running around as Wanda conversed with Monica.

“Y/N!” The twins ran straight towards them, running straight into their arms, catching the attention of the three adults.

“Hey mini Maximoffs.” Y/N beamed as they hugged the two of them.

“Y/N.” Monica smiled as she greeted them with a hug, soon followed by Wanda.

“This is Natasha and Yelena.” They introduced the two as Monica smiled, introducing herself before she decided to help the twins with something.

“Hi.” Nat squeaked out as she shook Wanda’s hand, holding her firm gaze with a smile on her face.

“It’s so nice to meet you.” Wanda smiled as she looked between the two sisters. “Thank you for looking out for this one when we couldn’t.”

“Wanda.” Y/N groaned. “I.” They started before Wanda cut them off.

“She was still the one who helped you through it more than the rest of us, and Lily would be thankful for this woman.” She told them firmly as Y/N nodded, giving Wanda another side hug before disappearing to help Pietro. “So, what is your relationship with Y/N?” Wanda asked as she and Nat disappeared inside to prepare the salad.

“I don’t really know what we are.” Nat spoke honestly. “We’re friends I guess but is it wrong to want more?”

“No.” Wanda smiled at her. “It’s never wrong to want more than you get.” She turned to look at Nat who was watching them talk with Yelena. “I watched them go through heartbreak, three times in their life.” Nat listened to her words intently. “I watched their life slowly slip away when they received Lily’s diagnosis, then when their ex left the two of them, and thirdly only months ago. Lily was the best thing that they had in their life and how they remained by her side everyday up until the very end. It shows me just how strong they truly are and they need someone to remind them of that, especially when they get sucked back into the darkness.” She looked at Nat. “Maybe that person could be you, you could be their light in the darkness.”

“So, what is it with you and my sister?” Lena questioned as Y/N sat beside her.

“We’re friends.” They started as they soon heard some commotion from the house. Getting up and heading straight inside to see the woman they never wanted to see again.

“Y/N, can we at least talk about this.” She asked as she held up the divorce papers.

“They need to be signed by you and then I can be free of you.” They told her bluntly.

“Can we at least work this out?” She asked as she pointed between the two of them. “It’s what Lily would want.”

“You have no right to say her name!” They growled as they stepped closer to her. “She was my daughter! Not yours because you ran away as soon as it got real. You abandoned her when she needed us both.” They took a deep breath as tears formed in their eyes. “Do you want to know what she asked me before she died? She wondered if you would miss her! Even though she hadn’t seen you in years, she still had good thoughts about you, and I never had the heart to tell her the truth about you being a fucking coward.” They took a deep breath as everyone listened. “So do me one favor and sign those god damn papers because I don’t want to be married to you. I haven’t for years because I lost hope that you would come home years ago. Hell, I was stupid to hold onto that hope that you would return.”

“Y/N?” She tried again shakily.

“JUST FUCKING SIGN THEM!!” They yelled as they stepped closer. “I WANT OUT!!!! SO JUST SIGN THEM!!”

“Sharon, I suggest you sign them and leave.” Wanda told her firmly as Pietro held Y/N back against the wall, allowing them to calm down. Sharon looked over their broken state, seeing that the Y/N she knew was gone, she no longer knew who they were.

“Ok.” She whispered as Wanda handed her a pen, watching over her as she signed them before leaving.

“Are you ok?” Wanda asked them as they looked in her eyes.

“I’m so sorry Wanda. I never wanted to lose myself. Not in your home.” They whispered as she shook her head.

“It’s perfectly understandable.” She told them before pulling them in for a hug.

The drive back to Natasha’s apartment was silent, once they had pulled up, they walked the two of them to the door. Lena gave a quick wave before disappearing to her room, leaving Nat and Y/N alone.

“I’m sorry about earlier.” They told her. “Neither you or Lena should have witnessed that.”

“It’s ok Y/N.” She told them as she took their hand in hers, they looked at their hands together and it felt right. “I understand why.”

“But it was disrespectful.” They pressed on.

“I can see how Lily was so caring and mature for her age.” Nat whispered as Y/N’s eyes snapped to hers.

“Lily.” They nodded as they took their hand away from hers. “I have to go.” They told her, walking away towards the elevator, Nat closed the door, leaning against it as Y/N made it all the way to their car. “Fuck.”

With that, they ran inside the building and up the stairs, running as fast as they could before knocking frantically on the door.

“Y/N?” Nat spoke confused, only to be cut off by them cupping her face and kissing her passionately. “What?”

“I needed to do that.” They whispered. “I don’t know where or when I started falling for you but I have and I made a promise.” They told her as their foreheads pressed together. “I promised Lily and I intend to keep that promise.”

“What was the promise?” She asked softly.

“To find happiness again.” They told her. “And that’s how I feel when I am around you, I feel free to feel how I feel.” They sighed as they looked in her eyes. “I am free to find myself again.”

“When you do find yourself, then take me on a date.” She told them as they nodded. “But not until your divorce is finalised and you know who you are again.”

“I will.” They nodded before kissing her once more, walking away with a wide smile on their face. Finally free to feel more than just pain and grief.

@natsbraids was it better and happier than my others? ;)

#natasha romanoff au #natasha marvel #natasha #natasha romanoff sad #natasha romanov #natasha romanoff #natasha romanoff x gender neutral reader #natasha romanoff x male reader

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mundivagantsoul · 7 months

Text

✩ Bookshopist Moonboys ✩

Part 2: "A, b, c, d-"

Moon Knight System x Reader

Summary: How the boys have been setting in at the shop

Warnings: Google translate Spanish, a bit angsty at the end with Marc’s self-doubt, coarse language, Marvel depiction of DID

Word Count: 1.4K

A/N: Gave the boys particular fonts so the dialogue isn't confusing. Hope you enjoy and thanks for reading :)

Steven

Marc

Jake

<- Previous | Masterlist | Next ->

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Steven navigates through the labyrinth of bookshelves with a pile of novels in hand. Lightly caressing the spines of various books, his eyes skim over the authors’ last names.

Humming the familiar tune that’s become a staple in their shifts, Steven starts, “A, b, c, d-”

A heavy Chicago accent interrupts his rhythm, “M, z, i…”

Steven sighs, ‘not this again’, he thinks, trying to drown out his headmate he continues, “E, f, g-”

“Q, l, u…” abruptly interrupts his thoughts again.

“H-”

“Y”

“I-”

“T”

“Bollocks, Marc, quit it!”

“Quit what? I’m just reciting the alphabet like you”.

“A-huh, sure you’re being a real help”

“You’re very welcome”

“Look bruv, I need to put these away, and I can’t do it with you distracting me every two seconds”

“Should've thought about that before you ate my food”

“For the last time, I didn’t eat your food!”

“A-huh suree~ First, you stole my wife, and now my food? Your old pals at the British Museum would be proud”.

“Oh for the love of- I’m sorry about Layla!”

“Ahem..”, a frail voice interrupts their dispute, peering down Steven is met with the comforting face of an old woman, “Sorry to bother you luv, can you point me in the direction of the cooking section?”

Cheeks warming up, Steven points towards the aisle, “Just go strain down here and turn right at si-fi, then a left at parenting, and it should be on your left”.

She smiles kindly up at him, “Thanks honey”, then plotters along with a slight wobble in her step.

-------------------- ⋆｡ﾟ☁︎｡⋆｡ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡⋆ ---------------------

It’s been 3 months since they started the job, and Steven’s loving every minute of it. His presence is appreciated, and he’s surrounded by others who share similar interests. Plus, he doesn’t have an aggravating boss breathing down his neck every second, which is a bonus.

The shop has a decent history and mythology selection. Since the Thor incident in 2011 and the revelation that god exists, people have become more intrigued by mythology. There’s lots of debate amongst mythologists and historians, arguing if the term ‘mythology’ is even correct anymore. Steven remembers reading a post by The Daily Bugle, stating, "Thor is a glorified space alien, and gods don’t walk amongst us." Little did they know.

The aftermath of the past decade and the revelations it brought have given way to more accessibility to novels regarding gods and deities, something that Steven has taken full advantage of.

In his first month of employment, he had managed to procure almost all the Egyptology books in store. Marc and Jake are constantly nagging him about it, stating they don’t have the room nor income to accommodate the influx of novels. Steven’s still trying and failing to convince Marc to turn their storage unit into a personal library, receiving the same answer in return, “We’re not turning the storage unit into your book-hoarding man-cave. We got this job to earn money, not spend it all on your addiction”.

After noticing Steven had managed to clear through all the Egyptology books, you felt the need to enlighten him with some bookshop wisdom. “You know…”, You say whilst ringing up Steven’s latest purchases, “You can order more Egyptology novels from our supplier. We don’t always have enough room to keep them on hand, but I know there’s a few we can get posted in if you're interested?”.

At your words, his eyes light up and you swear stars were floating amongst his coffee eyes, “Really?!”

“Ahí van nuestros ahorros” Jake facepalms.

Surprisingly, Jake has found himself enjoying work at the quaint store. The tasks are relatively simple, mainly involving manual labour, finding books of customers, and putting through sales. At first, he’d been nervous about working at the shop. He was closing in on 40, and the only thing he’d ever served was vengeance and cunt.

Thankfully, everyone at the store was supportive and non-judgemental. You reminded him one shift, "Believe it or not Lockley, it's okay to be a beginner and make mistakes”. Plus having two supportive brothers and a cat that somehow knows whenever he's feeling down helped. On the topic of cats, Jake was delighted to know that he could bring Viejita into work. “Will be good to get you out of the house” he mumbled to the feline, “Can’t have you growing up socially awkward like your tío Steven”, “HEY!”

Similarly to Jake, Marc was surprised to discover the job wasn’t as tedious as he’d initially predicted. The atmosphere is calm, especially for a retail job, and requires little mental thought. It’s a welcomed change, especially as his employment no longer involves something trying to kill him - though some books in the backroom have had a few good whacks at it. Since they started, Marc's gotten back into reading comics and sci-fi, he’s however, trying to keep it a secret. Khonshu forbid Steven found out he’s hypocritically spending their income on books.

There’s an unspoken rule amongst employees that if a text perks your interest you’re able to ‘skim a few pages’ to further your knowledge of company merchandise. Obviously, this only applies if you do it without altering physical integrity. All of the boys take advantage of this, finding a quiet corner in the backroom during their break, huddling up with one of the cats whilst eating lunch and immersing themselves in a new story.

Over the last 3 months, all the boys have had some interesting interactions with customers. In the first week, Steven had a lady yell at him about the price of a plastic bag - as if he had any input on the pricing. Marc and Jake were plotting murder for the full duration of the interaction.

Marc had to awkwardly ask someone for ID because they wanted to buy ‘adult’ manga whilst their mum was present. He then had to explain to the mother why an ID was required.

And just the other day, Jake had a lady come in asking for a book, only she didn’t know the title, or the author, OR the contents. Only that another bookstore in the area had in four months ago. He spent the rest of his shift questioning humanity's intelligence and pondering how we’ve managed to survive this long.

However, at the end of the day, all the questionable customer interactions are worth it because they get to see you. Your presence is now an anchor in their lives. A lighthouse guiding them out of thunderstorms and eternal seas that threaten to swallow them whole. From your enthusiasm when discussing a book, to the adorable face you make when concentrating. Every second they spend with you they become more infatuated with your being.

“We should ask them out”

“And risk them saying no then having to work with them afterwards? Absolutely not”

“We don’t know that they’ll say no, piensa positivo hermano”

“Okay, I’m positive they’ll say no”

“...That’s a lame comeback and you know it”

“I’m with Jake - not on the comeback comment, but on the fact that we don’t know how they’ll answer”

“It doesn’t need to be a date, solo cafe y pasar el rato”

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Marc sighs. Of course he wants to ask you out. Both Steven and Jake know that. He’s just worried you don’t reciprocate their feelings and only see them as friends. Or that he’ll somehow fuck it up for both you and his brothers. Maybe it would be better if he retreated back into the headspace, giving Steven and Jake the freedom to be with you without the burden of his pres-

Now it's Steven's turn to interrupt Marc. “Oi, we’re not havin’ any of that. We come as a package deal, remember? Burger, chips, drink ‘n’ everything. There’s no us without you, quite literally might I add.”

“Steven tiene razón, te respaldamos. Siempre.”

A small “meow” comes from his feet, looking down he’s met with the adoring eyes of Viejita.

“See even Viejita agree’s”

Mouth twitching up as his heart swells, Marc gives in.

“Fine... Just coffee”

-------------------- ⋆｡ﾟ☁︎｡⋆｡ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡⋆ ---------------------

Tag list: @0-ramen-0 @sunnyskyapplepie

Leave a comment or send me a message if you want to be added :)

#steven grant #jake lockley #marc spector #steven grant x reader #marc spector x reader #jake lockely x reader #moon knight x reader #moon knight #moonknight

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arxxq · 1 year

Text

The name Scaramouche, kunikuzushi and kabukimono has been forgotten in the world of teyvat, no one but the traveler knows him now...but what if there was someone other than the traveler who still remembers him? someone who wanderer cherished and loved...(I apologize for the small text used, it looked cute to use)

(apologizing if I mentioned she/her pronounces I'll fix it one day..I write in my perspective and I'm a female...so that's why there might be things indicating this for a female but I promise you all genders may read)

(first time writing genshin)

(mistakes will be fixed one soon)

You're no human that's for sure...or were you human?

You never considered yourself as human...maybe because you were cursed to live an external life. Ever since the downfall of what we know as the fallen nation, you were cursed with immortality. You were no one important but a citizen of inazuma but why is it were you cursed as well?

Could it be because you have never saw yourself as a human being? or was it because you never had a reason to live? You never knew.

Living for centuries and decades you were all alone till one day you met him. A puppet he told you. He told you he was a puppet created by his mother or in other words the electro archon but was then discarded by her. The puppet named himself kunikuzushi.

Your interaction with him was quite unexpected. He seemed so tense, like a closed book. But from that day onwards you vow to yourself to be his friends no matter how many times he had refused...

As time goes on in teyvat you succeeded. You stayed by his side no matter what. Even if those time he had changed to be a ruthless fatui member, you never failed to stay. Even when he joined the fatui you gladly stayed with him even after what he had done...and instead of being his friend the two of you became more of lovers instead.

But you never liked it how he joined the fatui. You had mixed feelings of it. You don't trust anyone in it including the cryo archon the tsaritsa. But the person you absolutely held suspicion on was the doctor also known as dottore.

Years adds on, one day you informed scaramouche that you'll be returning to inazuma to see how much the city changed after hearing a brave traveler had saved it. Scaramouche was hesitant to let you go but he did but what he didn't tell you was that he was headed to sumeru for something you would never had agreed on.

you enjoyed your time in inazuma and even made alot of acquaintances but something felt off. You never heard anything from Scaramouche, no letters at all. It didn't feel right. That's when you decided to ask a fatui guard. Lucky for you they didn't ambush you but when you asked...you were in disbelief when they said they don't know who this "balladeer" you were talking about.

You explained to them he was the 6th harbinger but they all assumed you were crazy and delusional. "I'm sorry ma'am but the 6th spot has remain empty for years...are you okay?" You heart broke. What in teyvat happen to your lover. "Ah..I'm sorry my head must be playing games on me..sorry to interrupt," you played along. You were in utter shock. It was as if your beloved was wiped from teyvat's existence.

To say the least you were devastated. It felt as if you were crumbling from teyvat's surface once more.

That was months ago. You decided to travel instead, well with the help of one if the friends you made. Without captain beidou and kazuha you might as well be...well hopeless. They helped you with your grief although they themselves know nothing of this person you grief of.

One day as you were walking with nahida you caught a glimpse of someone you had missed so much. "Uhm miss nahida?" You called out for the archon. The archon looked at you and smiled. "Something the matter [name]?" You look at the direction of that familiar male. "Do you somehow know who that is?"

You then afterwards head of to explore a nation you absolutely adored from it's name, culture and it's wisdom. The land of wisdom, sumeru. The more you spent in sumeru the more attached you were to the land. You even somehow came across the hero of the 4 nations aether/lumine was his/her name along with the great archon of sumeru nahida.

Nahida looked at the person you looked at and she simply answered you. "He's just a wanderer, why you ask?" You look at the male again and replied with an answer that shocked that archon. "He looks like the balladeer...well not like you know him,"

"oh..well I don't know who that might be but he seemed like someone you really care of," silence took over till you whispered "yeah...he was,"

It was midnight, you were never able to sleep or in other words you never usually sleep or needed it. So you decided to take a stroll outside and go to a cliff you'd usually go. Usually during this time, When Scaramouche was still with you, you'd usually sleep with him or sing a lullaby for him just so he'd calm down whenever he was stressed. Oh how you missed him.

The breeze of the wind on this hill and the view...it all looked so calm and relaxed. You closed you eyes enjoying the silence and the wind. Meanwhile you didn't had realised someone behind you. The male it was none other than the wanderer nahida said but as I said you haven't noticed him yet.

In the wanderer's perspective he looked shocked to see you because he knows you. You are no...you were the love of his life back when he was still known as Scaramouche who is know forgotten. You were the person that never left his side, his lover that promise him. You promised to never leave and you fulfill it but he was the one who broke it by leaving you all alone. But he had no choice. Part of him knows he can't have you back but part of him wanted you to remember him..

some people say that your love would be meant to be...just not the right time. What was it called, right person wrong time? He didn't care. He wanted you back, he craved for you touch, your voice but he can't have it back. He doesn't want to restart. No no no he doesn't because the thing you had with each other was something special. Something that cannot be restart with once more.

While Scaramouche or wanderer was lost in his head, he didn't know that certain someone had noticed his presence. "Lost in thought are you strange wanderer," your voice had snapped him from his thoughts. The voiced that he loved so much to listen. "What are you doing here? It's dangerous for a someone like you to be out at this time,"

"are you saying I'm weak? I can defend myself you know I'm not a little girl/boy," Scaramouche took in your appearance, you certainly had changed especially since you had a vision dangling down your waist. "Staring is rude you know?"

"bold of you assume I was, show some respect," he said. You laughed. "Hey wanna know a fun fact," you asked him. "Not that I'm interested but go on I'm listening," he looked you, the way you smiled as if you were recalling something so deep in your heart and memories. The soft gaze you had towards him, it clearly warmed his heart.

"you remind me so much of my lover...his name was Scaramouche, but I call him kunikuzushi.." those words caught him off guard. Did you just...you uttered the name that was forgotten. How...how were you able to remember. "I'm sorry if I offended you! It's just that you look so much like him. You hair, your eyes, your voice and the way you speak! Basically almost everything match up,"

"I really miss him...but it's as if he vanished from the world. At first I was assuming you were him but...nahida and so many others told me you were just a wanderer so...I guess I lost hope once again," a tear fell from your eyes...sadness really ingulf the atmosphere now.

" I miss him so much..I miss just talking or looking at him...ah sorry I'm being to emotional sorry for rambling"

he was speechless. He couldn't say anything. The way you rambled about him, the fact you remembered him. He wanted to say something but tears broke out before he could utter a word. His knees even gave up...was this what they called mixed feelings. he felt relief yet happy but then again sad.

"hey wait why are you crying!? I'm sorry I didn't mean to-" "you remembered me.." he muttered. "What? Come again?" "You never forgotten who I really am..."

You looked confused. "What do you mean...aren't you just coincidence? Everyone told me he doesn't exist what do you imply exactly?" Was it really him. Was this person you have been searching for, yearning for... The person you mourn and grief.

"[nickname]...you really do remember me," that nickname...no one used it before. No one dared called you that because the only person who did was none other that Scaramouche. Tears came running like a waterfall...you vision was blurry and you embraced him as if you never wanted to let him go again.

"I'm not dreaming or hallucinating am I...I am seeing the kunikuzushi I love right?" His hand held you cheek. The hand of his was reached you cheek and wiped the tears. His touch, you were sure it was him.

Your head tells you it's not him but you're soul knows that it's him. "Now why would I lie to you my love..." This was him. You know it and you finally found him. "I don't know how you still remember me but I would like answers from you..." You look at him and thought of your answer...

"I never forgot you my love...

And that's because...

my love for you is too strong for the world to make me forget you,"

hmm it seems like those two were perfect for each other weren't they? Cause even if the world tried to take them apart, fate will always bring them back together no matter how big the challenge make be.

This is the end...

of the story named..

MEMORABLE..

-sincerely

hasinah/Arxx

#works of arxxqblog #·˚ ༘₊· ͟͟͞͞꒰➳aryssa;hasinah #genshin x reader #genshin impact x reader #genshin imagines #genshin impact #wanderer x reader #wanderer fluff #wanderer #genshin wanderer #scaramouche fluff #scaramouche x reader #kunikuzushi x reader #deeply sorry its been a while i wrote #first time writing genshin #im rusty #i had a writers block y'all

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honeybeesources · 4 months

Text

BO BURNHAM: INSIDE SENTENCE STARTERS! (Change as needed. NSFW and triggering content ahead.)

CONTENT "Interesting, now leave me alone." "Sorry that I look like a mess." "I booked a haircut, but it got rescheduled." "Might not help, but still, it couldn't hurt." "I'm sorry I was gone." "It's a beautiful day to stay inside."

COMEDY "What the fuck is going on?" "It's like everything happened all at once." "Um, what the fuck is going on?" "The more I look, the more I see nothing to joke about." "Should I leave you alone?" "Should I be joking at a time like this?" "The world is so... fucked up." "Don't panic." "Call me and I'll tell you a joke." "I swore I'd never be back, but now I'm back on my feet."

FACETIME WITH MY MOM (TONIGHT) "Pour me a drink and clear my schedule." "Oh, look who's here." "How you doing, bud?" "I'm not so bad." "That's the deepest talk we've ever had."

HOW THE WORLD WORKS "The world that's around us is pretty amazing." "But how does it work?" "It must be complicated." "Everything works together." "That is how the world works." "That's how it works." "Hey, everyone." "Look who stopped by to say hello. It's [muse name]!" "Where've you been, [muse name]?" "Not quite dead, not quite alive." "It's similar to a constant state of sleep paralysis." "Boy, that sounds complicated." "How about you give it a try?" "Don't you know the world is built with blood?" "That's pretty intense." "No shit." "Read a book or something, I don't know." "Just don't burden me with the responsibility of educating you." "It's incredibly exhausting." "I was just trying to become a better person." "Wait, wait, wait, no, please!" "I don't want to go back. Please." "I can't go, I can't go back." "Are you gonna behave yourself?" "Yes, what?" "Yes, sir." "I hope you learned your lesson."

WHITE WOMAN'S INSTAGRAM "Is this heaven?" "I can't believe it." "It's been a decade since you've been gone." "I miss you." "It's got a little better, but it's still hard." "Still figuring out how to keep living with you." "I got a job I love and my own apartment." "I got a boyfriend and I'm crazy about him." "I'm crazy about him."

UNPAID INTERN "Who needs a coffee?" "I'm writing down the orders now for everyone." "The coffee is free, just like me." "I'm an unpaid intern." "You work all day, go back to your dorm."

BEZOS I/II "Come on, [muse name], you can do it." "Pave the way, put your back into it." "Tell us why." "Show us how." "Look at where you came from." "Look at you now." "Amateurs can fucking suck it." "You did it!" "Congratulations!"

SEXTING "It isn't sex, it's the next best thing." "I'm in bed." "I'm ready to go with you." "Tonight, I'm thinking of taking it slow." "That's pretty abstract." "Crisis averted. Thank God." "Are you naked?" "I'm getting hot at just the thought of what I'd do to you." "I love you, baby." "Send a picture of your tits, please." "Jesus fucking Christ, I guess I never learn." "I sent my titties, that's not fair." "Another night on my own."

LOOK WHO'S INSIDE AGAIN "There isn't much more to say about it." "You'll do any old shit to get out of it." "Try telling jokes." "Look who's inside again." "Went out to look for a reason to hide again." "Come out with your hands up." "We've got you surrounded."

PROBLEMATIC "Please forgive me." "I did not realize what I did." "Are you gonna hold me accountable?" "Isn't anybody gonna hold me accountable?" "I wanna show you how I'm growing as a person." "I tried to hide behind my childhood, and that's not okay." "My actions are my own, I won't explain them away." "I've done a lot of self-reflecting." "I was totally wrong when I said it." "My bed is empty and I'm getting cold." "What should I do with it?" "I've been totally awful." "I'm really fucking sorry."

30 "I used to run for miles." "I used to ride my bike." "I used to wake up with a smile." "I'm turning thirty." "God damn it!" "Now, my stupid friends are having stupid children." "I'll be forty and I'll kill myself then."

DON'T WANNA KNOW "How are you feeling?" "Do you like the show?" "Are you tired of it?" "Never mind, I don't wanna know." "Are you finding it boring?" "Do I have your attention?" "Yes, or no?" "Are you on your phone?" "Is there anyone out there?" "Am I all alone?" "It wouldn't make a difference." "I thought it'd be over by now."

SHIT "How we feeling out there tonight?" "I am not feeling good." "Feeling like a bag of shit." "All my clothes are dirty, so I'm smelling like a bag of shit." "OMG, that is just my luck." "What's up, you useless fuck?" "Are you feeling what I'm feeling?" "I haven't had a shower in the last nine days." "Staring at the ceiling and waiting for this feeling go away." "It won't go away." "I'm not really feeling like I wanna get lit." "Tell us how you're feeling." "Well, I feel like shit." "Feeling like a saggy, massive sack of shit." "Big ol' motherfucking duffle bag of shit." "Are you feeling like shit?" "Tell me, are you feeling like shit?"

ALL TIME LOW "My current mental health is rapidly approaching an ATL. Which is, um, that's an all-time low." "You know, I feel OK when I'm asleep." "Like, when I'm asleep, I feel all right." "It's basically from the moment I wake up, I just get this feeling in my body, way down deep inside me." "I try not to fight it." "My heart, it gets to tappin', and I think I'm gonna die." "Um, yeah, not doing great."

WELCOME TO THE INTERNET "Have a look around." "If none of it's of interest to you, you'd be the first." "Come and take a seat." "There's no need to panic, this isn't a test." "Just nod or shake your head and we'll do the rest." "Be happy, be horny, be bursting with rage." "Don't act surprised." "Could I interest you in everything all of the time?" "Apathy's a tragedy and boredom is a crime." "You know? It wasn't always like this." "We set our sights and spent our nights waiting for you." "Now, look at you. Look at you." "If we stick together, who knows what we'll do?"

THAT FUNNY FEELING "I can't really play the guitar very well, or sing." "Apologies." "The backlash to the backlash to the thing that's just begun." "There it is again, that funny feeling." "The whole world at your fingertips, the ocean at your door." "Full agoraphobic, losing focus, cover blown." "The quiet comprehending of the ending of it all." "Hey, what can you say? We were overdue." "It'll be over soon, you wait."

ALL EYES ON ME "Get your fuckin' hands up." "Get on out of your seats." "All eyes on me, all eyes on me." "Are you feeling nervous?" "Are you having fun?" "It's almost over." "It's just begun." "Don't overthink this, look in my eye." "Don't be scared, don't be shy." "Come on in, the water's fine." "Heads down, pray for me." "You wanna hear a funny story?" "I've been hiding from the world, and I need to re-enter." "You say the ocean's rising like I give a shit." "You say the whole world's ending. Honey, it already did." "Get inside."

GOODBYE "So long." "Goodbye." "I'll see you when I see you." "You can pick the street." "I'll meet you on the other side." "Do I really have to finish?" "Did I say that right?" "So, this is how it ends." "I promise to never go outside again." "I'm slowly losing power." "Has it only been an hour?" "No, that can't be right." "Hey, here's a fun idea!" "Am I going crazy?" "Am I right back where I started?" "I'll panic." "Call me up and tell me a joke." "You're really joking at a time like this?"

ANY DAY NOW "It will stop any day now." "Any day now."

#long post #long meme #rp #roleplay #roleplay memes #roleplay meme #rp meme #roleplay prompts #rp memes #rp prompts #sentence starters #tumblr rp #tumblr roleplay

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