#should I make something like this for each of the most devastating moments of tour?

[mortalfortaxpurposes]

oh nostalgia, I don't need you anymore

phoenix, june 30th 2023 / we liked you better fat: confessions of a pariah, february 29th 2012 / manchester, october 29th 2023 / september 21st 2023 interview

#fall out boy #patrick stump #spotlight oh nostalgia #so much for tourdust #should I make something like this for each of the most devastating moments of tour? #my post

[canmom]

Animation Night 163 - Yokohama Kaidishi Kikou

Good evening everyone! It's time at last for Animation Night. And what do we have this week... did you guess an OVA from the 1990s? That's always a safe bet with me and sure enough that's what we have tonight: ヨコハマ��い出し紀行 Yokohama Kaidishi Kikou, or in English, Yokohama Shopping Log.

I'm going to keep my writeup tonight brief, because I am fully kvin's homework on this one and I think rather than paraphrase what he wrote, lemme link the article. Here is an introduction to the series...

Nearly 3 decades after it was first published, Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou remains the poster child of mono no aware works in otaku media. Vaguely set after a catastrophe that collapsed both the planet’s ecology and human civilization as we knew it, an event that the series has no intention to explain, YKK stars android Alpha as she runs the desolate café that her long-gone master entrusted her with. Her episodic adventures are all about the appreciation of the moment, often with an emphasis on the evocative environments she casually comes across; after all, author Hitoshi Ashinano was inspired to pen this work by his fondness of taking a stroll or riding a motorcycle without a specific goal. Despite being an ode to spontaneity, YKK is also a thoroughly focused work—and the recipient of that focus is the passage of time, as well as how different beings process the ephemerality of things.

The manga is beautiful, and highly influential in establishing a certain genre of gentle post-apocalyptic works like Girl's Last Tour. But tonight we're here to see the OVAs, each of them just an hour, pulling out a selection of favourite episodes from the manga.

These two adaptations, despite coming just a few years apart, come at a point of major historical change: the first part is in the cel era, the second in digital.

For the first, we have director Takashi Anno, veteran of The Hakkenden (AN122) and magical girl anime such as Magical Emi. His characteristic direction style puts a huge emphasis on setting and atmosphere, lingering on quiet moments - something he truly ironed out in Semishigure, which returns to the protagonist of Magical Emi years after the events of the story. Which made him a perfect fit for Yokohama. kVin is full of praise for the colour design, the strength of the layouts, and especially the soundtrack.

The second OVA Quiet Country Café dir. Tomomi Mochizuki takes a radically different approach, skipping forward in the manga and introducing a boldly experimental style:

Though its color design can’t match the exquisite work of the preceding series, it makes up for it with the radically distinct art direction by the late legend Shichiro Kobayashi—best known for the likes of Utena, Gamba, Ashita no Joe 2, Castle of Cagliostro, Beautiful Dreamers, Windy Tales, and unarguably being one of the most important figures in the history of stylized Japanese animation. In contrast to the grounded scenery of the first OVA, Kobayashi’s evokes reality with stark forms, implications of movement, and downright expressionistic paintings. Compared to the gentle embrace of the first series, his work feels like it’s demanding your attention in a more proactive way.

kVin describes the second episode's direction as characterised by more active and layered camerawork and a more 'involved' score - he's particularly taken with the sequence where Alpha returns to her café after the devastating storm that sets the OVA going. He compares it to Mochizuki's direction of the Ghibli film Ocean Waves.

So two approaches to the same material, two different vibes, but it sounds like both should be very strong. Tonight the plan is simple enough: we'll watch both OVAs back to back! (Apologies for the late start, as mentioned I've been having tech problems.)

AN 163 will be going live shortly at twitch.tv/canmom. Both OVAs are pretty short so we'll be watching from about 11pm to 1am UK time. love to see you there nya~

#animation night #yokohama kaidashi kikou

[diamondangelkitten]

Vierapril Day 12: Treasure

“So what did you think of the book?” Annabeth sits down and thanks Alira for the cup of tea that the latter slides over to her before answering her friend. “It was good. I can’t believe that this was a play touring while we were adventuring. I’m sad we missed out on seeing it live.” “Right?! I’m so glad that Aurora found a copy of the book and sent it over to us!”

Alira smiles, “Lalafells of the Caribbean. It really should have been called Pirates of the Caribbean if you ask me.” Annabeth shrugs, “Well, there must have been some reason they couldn’t. I heard it had great stage design and production value.” Alira laughs, “I’m sure Hades would’ve loved it.” They two share a laugh as they think back on Solus zos Galvus and his love of the theater. “Oh definitely, it would have a saved slot every season.” “For sure, although Hyth would now make sure that every library had a copy of the book,” Annabeth says. Alira nods in agreement, “In all honesty, I loved the plot. It was thought provoking for  a lot of people.” “Aye, stories we know all too well that most people wouldn’t believe. That sometimes you have to do things that seem wrong to do what is ultimately right.”

Alira nods, “I did love Captain Jack’s line, “Not all treasure is silver and gold.”” Annabeth thinks for a moment, before asking, “Why did that one stick out to you?” Alira shrugs, “Ul’dah has built a name for itself in promising that wealth and jewels can be yours if you work hard enough. But you and I both know that luck comes into play there. Luck, fate, whatever you want to call it.” Annabeth can tell she’s quite passionate about this topic, as Alira has started talking with her hands making Annabeth have to dodge out the way. “Yes, money is nice and it makes life easier, but people don’t understand the harm it has. How it puts a target on your back. No one takes time to treasure the things closest to them. Whether it be people or possessions.”

She stops before taking out a necklace that was hidden under her jacket. “You’ve seen me wear this, yes?” “I have, though you normally kept it safe in a padded pouch while we were traveling.” “Indeed. This is all I have left of my parents.” Annabeth looks at her friend, trying to see where this is headed. “It’s not much, but I can now look back and treasure the time I had with them, and the fact that I even have this memorabilia. Rielle has nothing of the sort with her mother. So, I’m trying, to make new memories with her that will hopefully stay with her through her life. We get coffee, have nail dates. Now with Sibbie, trying to balance them both. I’m so glad they love each other.” Annabeth smiles and goes to hug her friend, “You’re doing an amazing job. And Rielle truly loves you. But you are right. I don’t regret my decision to leave home, but I was devastated when my lance from home broke. I still kept the pieces and got it fixed, but I knew I could never wield it again. Memories are the only thing we’ll have left. Especially you and I.” It was very much a forbidden topic between them, but they knew that they would outlive their friends and loved ones. Even their children, blessed with long life, would likely pass before them.

Alira looks to her friend, “I’ll be gold to your silver?” Annabeth laughs, “I thought the whole point wasn’t to gather up treasure?” Alira dramatically places a hand to her chest, “Annabeth, you wound me. You always have to have something of a reserve, a final trick up your sleeve.” She winks and Annabeth can’t help but sigh. “If Jack existed and you met him before Sid, you’d totally have gone out with him wouldn’t you?” “I think you mean Captain Jack and yes, I’d 100% have lived on Tortuga.” Their laughter is interrupted by a rapt knock on Alira’s door. She opens it to find Alinea and Aurora standing out in the snow, each carrying their own copy of Lalafells of the Caribbean. “What’s so funny?” Ali asks, stepping into Lira’s home and giving her a hug. Alira sends a smile Annabeth’s way, “Oh, just started book club early. Had to talk about the handsome rogue that is Captain Jack Sparrow.” All the girls laugh as they get comfortable for a long night of discussion and laughter. 

#vierapril #ffxiv #alira thorne #annabeth rose #It's Captain Jack Sparrow #I had to make a reference to one of my favorite movies #Don't worry - I have a hc in place so that all my oc's and their loved ones are around for a good long while #found family

[marc-spectorr]

love you like the sun came out

ˣ pairing: steven grant x reader

ˣ summary: steven spends an evening with two of his absolute favorites— the egyptian exhibit at the museum and you.

ˣ warnings: purely fluff + cheesy love declarations but we need it ;_;

ˣ a/n: this is just a ficlet i whipped up after bawling my eyes out at the end of episode 5. marvel better watch out bc i’m sending them a bill for my therapy this week lololol. hope you enjoy!

- ☾-

“...And over here we have Osiris, the god of the underworld,” Steven enthusiastically points out, his pure excitement seeping from his voice. “Osiris had been the pharaoh of Egypt until his own brother Set murdered him out of jealousy.”

He stands beside you, oh so full of glee, and you couldn’t stop the smile spreading across your face. It’s quite endearing, causing your heart to flutter out of control. Steven had practically counted down each day leading up to this moment— a casual date at the museum, the first of what he hoped would be many more to come.

Acting as your personal tour guide, Steven saves the best for last. The Egyptian exhibit is his ultimate favorite, something he couldn’t wait to share. Spending time with you surrounded by the most fascinating artifacts in ancient history is the cherry on top of an already perfect evening.

“What happened after?” You question Steven, your genuine interest fueling his eagerness. 

“Well, Set dismembered Osiris’ body and disposed of it into the Nile. Osiris’ wife Isis was devastated by his death. She then decided to search for her husband, and when she did, she put him back together and used her magic to resurrect him!”

“Ah, isn’t that romantic?” you quip, and it earns you a light chuckle from Steven. “Tell me more, babe?”

“Y-Yes! Hmm… let’s see who we else we’ve got here—”

For the next hour or so, you follow Steven as he jumps from one antiquity to another, revealing to you the story behind each one. It’s obvious to almost everyone how fond he is of Egyptian lore. He’s always so passionate when it comes to it, constantly spewing out historical tidbits with every chance he gets. 

You adore it, of course. You adore how happy and animated Steven becomes as a result. It makes you truly happy seeing him this way.

“So, this pretty lady right here is Hathor, goddess of love and joy. She’s also the goddess of music, and she— oh, um… Y/N?”

“Oops, sorry, I missed it. You were saying?”

Snapping out of your daze, you see Steven seemingly become worried as he starts glancing at the floor, now unsure of himself. He must have assumed that you were no longer interested or had grown bored, which was extremely far from the truth.

Before you could speak, an announcement plays over the speakers—the museum will be closing in fifteen minutes. Your heart sinks to your stomach when the smile on Steven’s fades, his tone expressing disappointment as he mutters, “I guess that’s it for today.”

“Wait, Steven,” you said, taking a few steps forward to close the distance between you and him. “We’ve got fifteen minutes still. Please, continue.”

“Are you sure? I don’t want to keep you up so late. I know I’ve been talking non-stop in the last hour, and it’s fine if you want to go home.”

A heavy sigh then escapes your lips. “Steven—”

“Maybe Donna was right. Maybe I’m just not cut out to be a tour guide after all—”

“Steven!” You catch his attention, stopping him in the midst of his ramblings. “Sweetheart, where is this coming from?”

He shrugs emptily. “I-I don’t know. I thought that perhaps I went overboard with the whole mythology thing and probably lost you as an audience somewhere along the way. It’s okay; I’ve been told that I tend to be a bit too much, and I should have toned it down tonight. Gosh, I just ruined our date, didn’t I?”

You’re quick to shake your head no at his last statement. Exhaling, you cup his cheeks, your eyes then searching his. “Steven, this night has been perfect for me. I love each minute of it and want even more. I love how excited you get when you share these stories, and I love listening to every word you say.”

You pause for a second, glancing at the figure of Hathor on the side. “Goddess of love, right?”

“Yes,” Steven nods, “Joy and music, too. Also, she’s the goddess of the sky and fertility and—”

You don’t let him finish this time, not when you suddenly capture his lips in a sweet kiss, one he doesn’t seem to mind at all. It’s slow and tender. Gentle, like the kind of man Steven is. You hold him close, feeling him smile through the kiss, which only ends when a patron walks past and clears their throat. Prude.

“Well, in the presence of Hathor, I would like to say that I am in love with you, Steven Grant, and would love nothing more than to listen to you talk about Egypt all day and night.”

The smile on Steven’s face widens to a grin. His doe eyes lock onto yours, admiring you as if you’re the most beautiful creation since the great pyramids of Giza themselves that were built thousands of years ago. “In the presence of Hathor, I too wish to declare my love for you.”

“Well, there you go. Now that that’s out of the way…” you giggle, squeezing his cheeks and then placing a small peck on his nose. “We have around ten minutes left at the most. You’re going to tell me everything there is to know about Hathor until security kicks us out. Afterwards, I’m immediately buying us tickets online for next time so that you can finish touring the exhibit with me. Deal?”

Steven is left momentarily speechless, and you take advantage of his buffering mind to steal yet another kiss. 

When he finally does find his voice, he gives you a little laugh, and it is absolute music to your ears. “Sounds like an amazing deal to me.”

#steven grant x reader #marc spector x reader #moon knight x reader #steven grant fanfic #marc spector fanfic #oscar isaac #steven grant imagine #marc spector imagine #moon knight #moon knight fanfic

[romchomp]

nana rewatch notes- episode 21

-man i don’t like this at all. i also don’t believe a single word coming out of takumi’s mouth

-this is really hard to watch actually

-i like that it’s takumi’s kiss that snaps hachi out of any potential fantasy. what is normally a symbol of love+affection ends up representing causality and objectification. the sudden and forceful kiss that is often framed as romantic in other series is a warning signal for hachi. her expression is one of discomfort.

-hachi doesn’t look comfortable once in this entire meet up. she’s gaslighting herself into thinking she wants to do this, but even then her doubt is visibly obvious.

-“i haven’t changed at all since i was 17” BUT YOU HAVE!! YOU HAVE!!!

-hachi knows that takumi doesn’t see her as someone worth respecting. she doesn't even try to convince herself that he might. she’s not happy to be with him, she’s spending every second questioning whether or not she should stop this.

- is this a once in a life time opportunity or is this a humiliating relief of loneliness? she doesn’t know. and takumi won’t be giving her any time to think it through.

-watching hachi question why cant say no to takumi and in the process gaslights herself into thinking that must mean she wants this in some way is extremely painful. takumi holds so much power over her as a celebrity and knowingly an icon of hachi’s.

-i feel a pit in my stomach. the only thing making this episode palletable is hachi’s remaining sense of humor lol.

-i think their positions of power are visually displayed by their clothing here. hachi is in a white robe while takumi is fully dressed in all black. also if you compare this table to the one in hachi’s apartment you’ll notice that the window isn’t in the center between hachi and takumi like it is with nana. takumi’s side has more space. hachi has a clear view out the window while takumi’s head is in front of the curtain- showing hachi’s internal searching via the view and takumi’s sole focus on hachi.

-hachi knows not to believe takumi when he says he’ll come to see her again after the tour. she has no expectation for takumi to fulfill her dream. however most of this comes down to her wounded self-esteem, unfortunately.

-okay hachi acknowledges that she isn’t as naïve as she was at 17, despite using takumi as validation of sorts right now.

-NOO NANA IS CALLING. i literally feel like throwing up

-she doesn’t want nana to know she’s with takumi. what would normally be a “i’ll tell you later” moment simply isn’t. hachi is embarrassed+feels guilt for letting herself get mixed up with takumi. she would never tell nana.

-although it’s something as small as helping with her phone, nana’s ease in asking hachi for help is progression! she also persistently asks when hachi is coming home. nana…is being doting. this ends up being devastating because hachi won’t be coming home tonight and asks nana to find help elsewhere. i hate it here.

-no i actually cant do this. hachi’s fear of nana’s judgement is mostly projection imo (but not entirely unfounded).

-both hachi and nana end up having an image they try to uphold in front of one another, as if they weren’t already both idealizing each other.

-the only person that sees hachi the way she sees herself is takumi. and even takumi has been taken by surprise this episode. i think he expected hachi to a lot more naive. at this point in the story i wouldn't say she is.

-this might be my favorite screencap this episode.

-she wants takumi to love her, but does she want to love takumi?

-damn so they’re all talking about yasu

-it’s crazy that they all know each other from before the bands. everyone except shin and hachi.

-so nana was enough for yasu to take the band more seriously, and ren is aware of this. what made the difference between nana and ren? they seem to occupy a similar role for yasu. i guess it could burn down to yasu being in love with nana but…hmm it’s something to think about.

-and now we have a scene where nana is accusing yasu of only being nice on the surface. 

-yasu wasn’t lying when he said he’s bad at defending himself

-nana feels jealousy towards reira the cycle never ends. it's only a matter of time before we realize that reira, like nana and hachi, is not doing good…at all.

-nobu asking where hachi is….these guys LOVE HER

-oh so there was romantic intent behind his line. i still mean what i said.

-the isolation hachi feels from being unable to talk about takumi will definitely take a toll on her. it’s a foreign experience for her. she had to cope with this all on her own. this ends up being reminiscent of the experience rape victims go through, which hachi very much is. that scene didn’t feel consensual at all.

-“please sing again” indicates that nana gives up her dream in the future.

previous episode

next episode

#nana #ai yazawa #episode 21 #i hate this episode lmao #and fuck takumi

[carriagelamp]

Weirdly enough, I often find myself reading less in the summer, since I have more time than I do during the rest of the year to do other things. Also artfight has been eating up more than a bit of my free time! But here’s a collection a graphic novels I sat around on the hammock reading, and some novels I finished up...

(Everyone go read All Systems Red, holy crow guys)

A Whale of the Wild

The “sequel” to A Wolf Called Wander, though it doesn’t actually connect to the previous novel except in the stylistic/thematic sense. A Whale of the Wild is very much a standalone novel. And a pretty decent one! Personally, I think I liked Wolf more, but this one was a pleasant, informative read, with just the right amount of crushing dread sprinkled in. It’s about a young orca called Vega who is learning to become a new wayfinder for her pod but who still has a lot to learn, especially in an ocean that is becoming increasingly hostile to orcas and the other sealife that live alongside humans. When a devastating earthquake hits, Vega and her little brother find themselves separated from their family, lost in a now horrifyingly unfamiliar environment, and fighting starvation as the salmon that sustain them become more and more unreliable. It’s a desperate fight for survival as they search for food and their missing family. This book is written for a middle grade level, and does a really good job of putting the current environmental crisis into an animal’s perspective while giving the readers something to hope for.

The Adventure Zone: The Crystal Kingdom

Every July I eagerly anticipate the next Adventure Zone graphic novel. This one is for their fourth arc, The Crystal Kingdom, in which Magnus, Taako, and Merle respond to a SOS from a floating laboratory that is gradually being consumed by crystals and which threatens the entire world should it fall into the ocean. Carey Pietsch’s art continues to be absolutely fantastic, so beautifully and hilariously expressive, and this one delivers some great Merle moments, lots of Carey Fangbattle, and, of course, Kravtiz. Kravitz, my beloved…

Anyway, I obviously always recommend these. If you’ve never gotten into The Adventure Zone, I totally recommend either trying these graphic novels — or even better, just go listen to the podcast because it really is both hilarious and creates a shockingly good and heart-wrenching story by the end.

All Systems Red

I’ve seen The Murderbot Diaries on my dash occasionally, and it always looked interesting, but a friend’s recommendation finally compelled me to read the first novella of the series. And holy shit y’all. Absolutely the best book I’ve read this month, it’s amazing. Mind-blowingly good. Also, if you’re like me and want a good audiobook, it’s a nice three-hour listen, very chill!

Anyway, All Systems Red is about a Security Unit, an artificially created being that’s part-organic part-mechanical and all-company-owned-and-controlled. However, self-named “Murderbot” has managed to hack into the system that suppresses its own will, and is now coasting along, doing the least amount of work its job requires not to be noticed, while preferring to spend all its time watching the hours and hours of soap operas it has downloaded into its brain. And it’s a tolerable if somewhat dull life, until the science team that it's currently rented to is attacked and the whole mission goes pear-shaped. Suddenly Murderbot has to scramble to keep its humans alive… while its humans scramble with the realization that their “SecUnit” isn’t actually a mindless robot like they had all believed...

This story is both gripping and hilariously funny. Murderbot has such a unique voice and perspective and it’s an absolute pleasure to follow its story. I reallly need to read the next book...

Asterix and the Banquet

A classic. I was startled when I realized I hadn’t actually read this Asterix story… but hell I’m not gonna complain, it lets me read one of the originals for the first time again! In this Asterix volume, the Indomitable Gauls and the Romans end up arranging a bet — the Romans intend to keep them under siege, trapped in their village, while Asterix is confident that he can easily evade them… and will prove it by going on a tour around all of Gaul, collecting iconic foods from each region in order to return and put on a fine banquet. So we get a fantastic adventure in which Asterix and Obelix run all over the country, pursued the whole way, while making cheerful stops at the various eateries along the way. Also the first book Dogmatix shows up in! All around, a wonderful read, fun like all the best Asterix comics are.

Beauty Pop v4

A less impressive graphic novel. The first Beauty Pop is one of my guilty pleasure manga because… it really is pretty stupid but in the best possible ways. I mean, the whole thing is framed around hairstyling battles, like a shojo sports manga without the sports. It’s bonkers. Unfortunately, the series does not really manage to hold up, and it really begins to feel repetitive and dragging as it continues… as a lot of series like this do. *shrug* Unsurprising but still kinda disappointing I suppose. The building three-way romantic tension is mildly interesting if for no other reason than the main character Does Not Notice and Does Not Care about any of it, which is amusing and refreshing.

FRNCK v5

Now this series only gets better and better as it goes. This is the first book of the second arc, and somehow the danger just seems to be ramping up and up and up. The cavefamily have lost their home… as well as Léonard and Gargouille. Heartbroken, shocked, and angry, Franck is the one who ends up shouldering the blame for their presumed deaths as the others mourn. Things only get worse when Franck finds himself separated from the family, and in the territory of another tribe, this one hostile and cannibalistic...

Haikyuu v5

I continue to read this series because it continues to be charming… though it is beginning to feel, maybe, just a little repetitive. Kind of an inevitability with sports manga. But so far it continues to be good enough to overcome that. I’m not sure what I can say about this series that I haven’t already, so I’ll simply say it continues to be one of the most impressive sports manga I’ve read, and the author does a fantastic job of creating engaging characters, fleshed out teams, and really compelling relationships. I do genuinely adore all the main members of Crows, along with a number of characters from the rival teams as well. And of course it has some kickass volleyball scenes that are just drawn so dramatically they can’t help but take your breath away a little.

M*A*S*H Goes To Maine

Meh. The original book of the series was actually quite good in my opinion. This one… considerably less so. The first part I enjoyed more, since it was about Hawkeye, Trapper, Duke, and Oliver Jones trying to set up the FinestKind Clinic and Fishmarket in Crabapple Cove (which… is just the best premise I could have ever asked for). However, the book spends most of its time describing the quirky lives and times of other people living in the area and I… just… don’t care. It was funny at times but… I just don’t care. I wanted to hear more about the main cast. Also I found this book felt more racist and misogynistic than the first which also put me off :/ Wouldn’t bother if I were you. Go read the first book instead, or better yet just watch the TV show which is an obvious banger.

My Heart’s in the Highlands

I have had this on my “currently reading” list for so long but I’m officially giving up. It’s a really good book in theory but my god I can’t get over the pacing.

It’s about Lady Jane, a woman studying medicine in Edinburgh in 1888, and who suddenly finds herself back in the Highlands in the 13th century. Lost and confused, Jane is now at the mercy Clan Donald’s hospitality while she tries to adjust to this new world and hunts for her broken time machine. Fortunately, this hospitality include a burgeoning friendship with a red-haired warrior woman, Ainslie nic Dòmhnaill, who opens Jane’s eyes to the way the world could be.

Listen. It drives me nuts. This book should be completely up my alley, it has everything I like — IT HAS ALL OF ITS HISTORICAL FOOTNOTES CITED AT THE BACK, LITTLE EXTRA DETAILS ABOUT EVERY CHAPTER. THAT’S MY SHIT RIGHT THERE. DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I LIKE BEING ABLE TO GO OVER HISTORICAL DETAILS?? AND WELL RESEARCHED FOOTNOTES?? And yet it doesn’t. Fucking. Work for me. It has a kickass Scottish warrior lady as a love interest! It has a badass lady doctor! It has fish-out-of-water culture shock! But it also has a completely meandering plot, no sense of building tension, and a romance that just happens out of nowhere and feels completely unearned and uninteresting.

I would genuinely just rather read Outlander again, which I know has its own host of problems, but at least Outlander felt exciting and interesting and tense and funny. The romance built in fits and starts, it was complicated, and kept me interested. That book had me hooked (and has me hooked every time I reread it) whereas this book I’ve been sadly picking at for months like its a plate of overcooked spinach. This felt like an attempt at a queer, historically accurate knockoff which I would normally be super into but which just could not stick the landing.

Moomin on the Riviera

My first time actually reading anything from the Moomin canon. I have zero idea how to feel about it! It certainly is as feral as I’ve heard described! Overall, I think I enjoyed it but it sure made me feel strange emotions I didn’t know existed. I’m not even going to try to describe it. Read it if you want a batshit insane anti-capitalist comic.

Surviving the City

This was good in some areas, less good in others. It had a very interesting indigenous perspective on life in the modern city, the foster system, and The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women issue, which I’ve never seen handled in a book before. Something about the pacing did not completely click with me and I found myself getting easily distracted, but it’s definitely worth the read just to experience it and look at the issues it deals with through the characters’ (and author’s) eyes. It did give me a lot to think about and wrestle with, which is sometimes the best thing a book can give you.

Torchwood: Pack Animals

A really fun read, more so than I had ever expected! If you like Torchwood and want more stories about the team before everything goes to shit, this is perfect for that. It includes the entire cast, an interest mystery to be unravelled, lots of slavering monsters, Rhys being really wonderful and sweet (which I didn’t know I wanted until I read this book), and all the humour I expect from Torchwood. I had to send a lot of quotes to my long-suffering girlfriend who a) does not watch this show but b) needs to tolerate it because I find it too funny to keep to myself. It was good enough to make me go out another book of the series since this was the only one my library carried.

#book review #book reviews #torchwood #moomin #queer lit #queer literature #queer books #canlit #canadian literature #manga #haikyuu!! #beauty pop #all systems red #murderbot #mash goes to maine #taz #the adventure zone #the crystal kingdom #a whale of the wild #surviving the city #frnck #asterix

[thewolfstarchives]

Hii, I would like you to post you favourite fic recs, the ones you love the most and think everyone should read? :3

 Hi! There’s a lot to choose from, and this is obviously a really hard question! But here are the ones we decided are truly some of our favourites, and we reread all the time!

Sorted by length:

Friends Don’t by shadow_prince (T, 2.2k, 1 chapter)

Remus huffed. “I mean, even at school. You never went on dates. And I thought maybe it was just because you were always with us and whatever, but. You never date.”

“What’s your point, Remus?”

“Why don’t you?”

He looked back down at the newspaper, unable to look him in the eye for the lie he knew would come next. “I just don’t like anyone.”

“Oh.”

Was that disappointment in his voice? No, it couldn’t be disappointment. Because that would mean Moony cared, and Moony didn’t care. Moony couldn’t care, because Moony was straight. If he wasn’t, he would have said something, and he hadn’t, so he had to be straight.

That didn’t stop him from glancing over the top of the paper to where he stood at the edge of the hallway. He was frozen in the way you froze just before you kicked off the ground on your broom. Right before a runner pushed off the block. Right before you dove off a cliff into the sea. Frozen with the promise of movement about to burst forth.

Sirius watched him, holding his breath.

“You’re lying.”

If You’d Let Me (But You Don’t) by @kerstintxt (T, 4.8k, 1 chapter)

"Today on the wire we have Sirius Black, the irresistible lead singer of The Marauders, a band we've been playing an awful lot lately, now that I think about it. They must be having a terrific time; just last year, the four boys from London were playing in tiny clubs and now they've just announced their first arena tour for next year. At the moment, they're touring in the UK, USA and Canada. Sirius, tell me, where are you right now?"

"Uh, give me a second. Remus", Sirius says as he leans a little too far over the edge of his bunk bed (a sharp turn of the bus would be really bad timing) so that he can look at Moony, who's reading on the bed under his. "Remus", Sirius says with the phone still pressed to his ear, "the nice lady on the radio wants to know where we are."

OR, the one where The Marauders are a rock band and Sirius should reeaalllly get his feelings for Remus under control if he doesn't want to ruin everything.

The London Underground Book Of Love by Children_of_the_Shadows (T, 5.2k, 1 chapter)

The cardinal rule of the London Underground is to never, ever make eye contact. It is a rule that, among many others, Sirius tends to follow despite his otherwise rebellious, non-rule-following nature. So the first time he makes eye contact with a human being in the subway comes as much of a shock to him as anyone else. Especially when he's unable to look away.

Love (Messy, Tragic, Devastating) by kmc123 (T, 12.7k, 1 chapter)

it is easier to say "fuck me harder" than to say "love me and only me" - k.y robinson

rumor has it by @punkaspadfoot​ (T, 15.1k, 1 chapter)

No student had ever figured out why Mr. Black and Mr. Lupin seemed to hate each other so much, and at this point in the year the seniors were done trying. All they had time to focus on now was finals and graduation, although the annual class trip provided a welcome distraction. Three days on a lake with their four favorite teachers and plenty of time to gossip had to be a good time, right?

Save Me, Save Me, Save Me by @mollymarymarie (N/A (no smut), 15.2k, 1 chapter)

Remus overhears a conversation between James and Sirius about Sirius being in love and discovers rather abruptly that he doesn't like the idea of Sirius being in love with anyone who isn't him. THEN WHY IS HE HELPING SIRIUS COOK THIS WOMAN DINNER??

Probably so that, while chopping vegetables in the kitchen, he and Sirius can perform an emotional duet, serenading each other to Phil Collin's "A Groovy Kind of Love." AND THEN GET ALL WEIRD ABOUT IT AFTERWARD.

Because they're idiots.

Let Nothing You Dismay by montparnasse (M, 18.9k, 1 chapter)

There are a few things Sirius really didn't count on for Christmas of 1979. The extreme sexual confusion is one of them; Remus Lupin is approximately seventy-eight of the rest.

Now I Wanna Be Your Dog by @remus-john-lupin (E, 20.1k, 7 chapters)

Sirius clunks about in his Doc Martens and listens to The Stooges and smokes cigarettes and wears his hair much too long and spends more time serving detention than not.

And is way too forward about his sudden feelings for Remus.

(A story about teenagers and summer love in the 70s.)

Vows Under the Covers by @mollymarymarie (Not Rated but has smut, 21.5k, 1 chapter)

Remus is getting married. And not to Sirius.

"All the promises - vows under the covers. We would play pretend, my love, But it was real. To me."

Likewise Variable by @oneangryshot (T, 28.9k, 17 chapters)

James has plans, Peter is the nurse, Sirius keeps fake blood up his sleeves, and Remus just tries to stay alive.

Solntse by @lumosinlove (N/A but has smut, 62k, 14 chapters)

Sirius, a young Russian billionaire hires Remus, who is working part time as a call boy to make ends meet. Things happen, feelings occur.

The Lad that Loved You by @mollymarymarie (N/A but has smut, 81.7k, 3 chapters)

James and Peter are out of sorts because Remus and Sirius are fighting. Except that they're not. They're REALLY not.

Here Comes Another One by PleaseDonateBlood (T, 82.7k, 17 chapters, WIP)

Do you ask every stranger you accidentally spontaneously befriend this many personal questions?

FRIEND it may have been spontaneous (destiny) but there was nothing accidental about this love

Also I guess that means this would be a bad time to ask for your name?

Your guess would be correct

What’s your name?

Wow. --- Sirius texts the wrong number. And so it begins. We did need another Wolfstar texting fic. We definitely did.

Currents by @quoththethestral (E, 109k, 17 chapters)

Remus Lupin and Sirius Black arrive in Sydney to compete in the Summer Olympics, both intent on making these games a better experience than the last. The two swimmers have a tumultuous history and intense rivalry, but can America’s golden boy and Great Britain’s notorious bad boy put their past behind them and find some common ground?

Palo Alto by @nachodiablo (M, 110.4k, 18 chapters)

Modern AU set in Silicon Valley.

It's easy for Sirius to ignore his mixed-up feelings while he's got Remus all to himself, but when Remus starts dating again, Sirius is forced to figure things out before Remus moves on for good. Or before James and Peter strangle them both.

Show Me Everything I Missed by @mollymarymarie (N/A but has smut & trigger warnings, 152.9k, 12 chapters)

In the middle of the aftermath left by life-shattering trauma, Sirius finds Remus, someone who understands better than anyone else ever could. And together, they take turns putting each other back together again when the nightmares of their pasts try to tear them apart.

Casting Moonshadows by Moonsign (M, 395.7k, 87 chapters, WIP)

Lonely and outcast by his classmates, Remus wishes on a moonshadow for a friend who understands him. To his amazement his wish is answered not once, but three times, by his former enemies, the Marauders.

Inquiries? Ask the Archivists!

#file under: #dan #kay #favorites #rec list #wolfstar fanfic #wolfstar fic #fic rec #wolfstar #remus lupin #remus x sirius #sirius x remus #remus/sirius #sirius black #hp fic rec #hp fic #hp fic recs #hp #harry potter

[taehyungiejiminie95]

BTS Reactions – You’re dating another idol

You laugh kindly as your boyfriend speaks casually with the reporters lining the red carpet. It’s nothing you’re not used to – you’re well used to the limelight by now, by way of your famous boyfriends both past and present. You’re not some kind of fame hunter, you don’t dream of being adored by everyone, you don’t even particularly like going to coveted events like this. But you do it to support the man you’re with. At some point, you become aware of somebody watching you with intense eyes. Although you’re no stranger to being watched, this feels… different. More accusatory. You know without looking back who’s glaring at you and the hand your boyfriend has wrapped around your waist.

Jin

“Jimin, stop staring,” Jin whispers gently to Jimin, guiding his groupmate away from the sight and towards the next red carpet interview, “It’s just going to cause a scene, and I don’t think we really want that kind of publicity,” Jin’s voice is controlled and calm, as he flat out refuses to let any of his emotions bubble to the surface. With years upon years of practice, he lets his eyes pass right over you and your new boyfriend without even a hint of recognition. Jimin shakes his head in wonder and Jin elegantly dodges a few questions regarding your presence here, acting as if he hasn’t seen you yet – but must find you for a brief catch up, surely.

You and Jin seem to keep brushing shoulders all night, but he makes no move to acknowledge your presence if he can. As he walks up to the table where his group and a few others will be seated and sees you there, he stalks straight past to where some of his idol friends are sitting, naturally integrating himself into the conversation while Namjoon rushes to make quick amendments. It’s all sorted by the end of his conversation.

Jin holds onto his composure all night, smiling and waving and cheering as if there’s nothing wrong. Even his groupmates wonder what’s going on, why he isn’t bothered by it at all. It’s not until much later on that Jin’s true feelings show. The van doors have just closed, and everybody is inside. It seems like all the air is let out of Jin, and he crumples forward, his first few tears slipping out as they’ve been threatening to all night.

Yoongi

“I can’t believe she has the nerve to show up here! It’s barely been 6 months and she’s already got somebody else draped over her. Who even is that?” Yoongi mutters to Namjoon as he glares at you. The leader tries to discourage his staring, knowing that the press will just be eating Yoongi’s horror up, as disgustingly predatorial as that is. Nothing sells like rivalry, and if Yoongi doesn’t stop staring and muttering, that’s going to be what happens,

“Look, I know. I get it. But unless you want this to be front page news, you’ve got to stop this,” Namjoon pushes gently, trying not to be too harsh. Your breakup really did affect Yoongi, so it’s not fair to expect him to be okay with this,

“I just feel like I should say something, you know? It’s obvious some reporter is going to ask me a question about it, but maybe if I go over there then that will be a story enough and they won’t have to,” Yoongi tries to control his voice and convince the leader that him going over there wouldn’t end in a fight. However, his voice betrays him and Namjoon is forced to quickly drape and arm over Yoongi’s shoulders to hold him in place for the next bout of pictures. He wouldn’t be surprised if Yoongi bolted at any moment. It’s been a long time since any of the group has seen Yoongi in this much pain and turmoil. Namjoon silently curses you in his head. How could you do this to him? Showing up here after everything… yeah, in Namjoon’s opinion, Yoongi has every right to be mad.

Hoseok

“Should I go over and do something? Maybe act all happy, like I support the relationship? Might be good for our image, especially with our upcoming album being what it’s about,” Hoseok asks Namjoon under his breath. He likes to think his leader will always know what to do, but Namjoon just shakes his head and shrugs. There is no right way to act when your ex-girlfriend (who you had been with for years) turns up at an awards show you’re about to sweep clean ay with a new nearly-as-famous idol boyfriend just a few months after the public announcement of your break up. Not exactly any manuals based on the correct etiquette. Hoseok swears softly and decides it would probably be best. If he’s lucky, it might make him feel better.

The rapper walks through a crowd that parts like the Red Sea for him, and he approaches you and your new boyfriend with bated breath. You catch sight of him first and try not to show how much you’d been dreading this. You couldn’t avoid coming, but you knew that he would do this. Hoseok was always a sociable person, wanting to appear as good-natured and as friendly as possible. After so long together, you know him like the back of your hand,

“I hope I’m not interrupting!” Hoseok says brightly, giving your boyfriend a friendly smile as he shakes his hand, “Just thought I’d come over and introduce myself, make sure nobody feels awkward,” His smile widens externally as a few reporters catch wind of the situation and hurry over, but inside his dread multiplies. He’s sure this is the right thing to do in this situation, but why does it hurt so much to see you so happy? He swore he would always support you, but he can feel a green-eyes monster stirring in his belly. It’s ugly.

Namjoon

Immediately upon registering your presence, Namjoon straightens his back, squares his shoulders and sets his jaw. He is not going to play into whatever kind of sick game is at play here. He’s certain everyone expects him to react in some way, maybe even go over and try and say something. Some fans are probably even hoping he’ll start a fight. No. He will not stoop that low. He bites his tongue and decides who he is going to be tonight. He won’t be the cheap headline of some failing tabloid. He’ll be the front cover of MTV and Billboard after cleaning house at yet another top-flight awards show. That’s who Kim Namjoon is.

It gets really hard to be Kim Namjoon when you and your boyfriend end up sitting right behind him, talking in such a soppy way to each other. He’s forced to sit there and listen to the two of you simper and kiss each other for the sake of the cameras all night. Namjoon refuses to even flinch, just playing his role in these shows. To be fair, it’s not like he spends long sat down anyway. Award after award is given to them, and he receives a few on behalf of his company as well. This is who Kim Namjoon is. Untouchable. Unfazed. He will not let this get to him. He will not let this get to him. He will not let this get to him. He will not…

The mantra starts to break down towards the end of the end, when he catches fragments of a conversation that he wishes he was having with you. Talks of going home, of cuddling, of having breakfast together. A single tear escapes Namjoon’s eyes, and he hopes deeply that if a camera did catch it, they would assume it was the emotional video being shown on stage to support the ending of racism.

Jimin

“Jimin! How does it make you feel that your ex has a new boyfriend already?” A reporter shouts over the din of voices in the red carpet area. Jimin rounds on them with a dark expression, staring directly into the camera as the question registers slowly in his brain. A deep frown settles on his face as he considers how best to address this question he knows is going to be screamed and shouted at him all night. He might as well get something out now, and stick to it,

“I think that’s a really personal question. I’ve already spoken with ARMY about how I feel, as you should know. What others do doesn’t affect me. I’ve been on a journey with my group, my brothers, to learn to love myself. The first lesson is not to let things you can’t control upset you. I’m happy for her. I hope she finds what she’s looking for,” Jimin’s teeth are clenched together as he speaks, but he knows his voice sounds as melodic and as friendly as always. The reporter nods in thanks and is about to call out another equally intrusive question when Taehyung tugs his best friend forwards for an important photo with a big artist also attending,

“That was a pretty good response, hyung. I wonder if it’ll keep them happy for now,” Taehyung states absent-mindedly as he gets into a memorable pose. Jimin does the same, pulling on his most endearing smile. Inside, he doesn’t know what to think. He knows the answer to Taehyung’s thought – no. The media are never happy unless Jimin is crying on his knees, in pain and suffering. That’s the only way half of them will sell a story. They want to see him hurt. It’s all he can do to swear he will never let them see the truth. How it feels like you’ve got his heart in that little clutch of yours. Like you’ve stolen it. Like he’ll never get it back.

Taehyung

Taehyung’s face falls as your new boyfriend tightens his arm around your waist, tugging you into his chest for a cute couple’s picture. Your smile looks so radiant and overjoyed. He can’t remember when you ever looked at him like that. Maybe you never did. Taehyung tried so hard, day in and day out, to be good enough for you, but he never was. You still decided to leave him just before he went on tour. He was devastated. None of the group look fondly on you after you left him in such a sorry state,

“Come on, we’re moving on now,” Jin whispers in his ear, trying to be subtle as he moves Tae along. The eldest of the group doesn’t want to be harsh, but if Taehyung doesn’t get his expression under control then they’re going to have front page news on their hands. And not for the right reasons, “Hey, isn’t that Seojoon over there? I haven’t seen him since you went on your Hwarang promotions with him!” Jin exclaims a little louder, trying to draw away the attention of reporters on Taehyung and Taehyung’s attention on you. It seems to work, even if Taehyung’s enthusiasm is a little lack-luster,

“Woah! Hyung, you’ve gotten taller,” Taehyung marvels, bounding straight past where you’re stood to hug his actor friend, “Thank you for the food truck you sent me last month, me and my members really enjoyed it,” He continues, beaming up at Seojoon, trying his best to fulfil his happy-go-lucky image. All he can do is pray it works as Seojoon does his best to pick up the slack for his hurting friend.

Jungkook

“I’m going over,” Jungkook huffs, and before anyone can grab him, he’s broken off from the group and elegantly stalked over to where you and your new boyfriend are stood, recounting for the hundredth time how the two of you met – well, his version of it anyway. Your boyfriend’s management had been eager to leave out the part where you met through your ex, Jungkook. But the singer has no intention of letting that fact remain buried, “I think you two have missed a detail in there,” Jungkook interrupts casually, giving the camera his most innocent smile. He gives off the aura of an old friend, a hint of a laugh in his tone,

“Jungkook?” You gasp, not quite as well-practiced in acting unbothered by things. Your shock (and horror) is evident on your face for a split second, long enough for everyone to notice, before you’re able to rearrange your features into something more pleasant, “What were we missing? I’d hate to not be giving the full story,” Your smile is strained, but only Jungkook and your boyfriend really notice that tiny detail,

“I feel the same. The fans need to know the full story, how else are they supposed to love you like you love each other?” He lies tactfully, “I believe the part where you actually met because I was mentoring your lovely young man at the time. Did that part slip your mind? It was a little after he debuted, he reached out for some tips on how to be on the camera. We worked closely, and clearly you did too,” Jungkook amends, looking directly into your eyes as he sees you panic. Good. Jungkook bids his goodbye as naturally as he gave his hello, and sweeps off back to his group. He hopes it hurts. You cheated on him; you deserve it.

#bts #bts angst #bts reactions #bts jungkook #bts taehyung #bts v #bts jimin #bts hoseok #bts jhope #bts jin #bts seokjin #bts yoongi #bts suga #bts namjoon #bts rm

[not-close-to-straight]

Lost and Found (Eighteen)

MASTERLIST HERE

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Tony thought he was dreaming when James picked him up from the chair and cradled him up close, thought he was outright hallucinating when cool lips pressed a kiss to his forehead and a hoarse voice whispered, “Fuckin’ hell, sugar. What is happening to you?” 

Somewhere out there in a haze of pain JARVIS instructed James on how to fill a syringe with a slightly less-than-legal pain killer and Tony barely twitched when it stung against his skin and liquid heat poured through his veins, his mind settling and pain easing and...thoughts...slowing…down...

“Tony.” 

Tony didn’t know how long he’d been out, but when he opened his eyes again he felt normal, or at least close to what had passed as normal for the past several days. The tour around the world had drained him to the point of constant exhaustion, his mind compromised to near incoherence, and the pain meds didn’t even take it all away. The shot only dulled the bone deep hurt enough to keep Tony’s mind mostly online, and for right now and until he was out of time, that was all he cared about. 

Tony didn’t want to die out of his mind crazy, too far gone to put a sentence together, in too much pain to function or remain lucid.

But Tony didn’t want to die all by himself either, cold and all alone in a too big house at the end of a too deserted street at the edge of a too uncaring ocean. 

Tony didn’t want to die alone. 

“You’re not alone, sugar. I’m right here.” 

Tony’s eyes snapped open, zeroed in on James sitting at his bed side. The soldier looked haggard, exhausted, dark circles under his eyes, shoulders hunched and hands clasped between his knees and looking like he had no idea what to say to Tony after three weeks apart, after three weeks of missed called and unanswered texts, after three weeks of waiting only to find Tony almost gone. 

James didn’t look like he knew what to say, and Tony didn’t know what to say either, so he just didn’t say anything at all. 

It was the most difficult thing in the world to stumble out of bed and make it towards the bathroom, but Tony didn’t say anything about it and neither did James. The soldier just held out his hand long enough to keep Tony steady, then let it fall away, and hung his head again. 

What were they supposed to say?

The man in the bathroom mirror staring back at Tony was practically a shadow-- thin and pale, hair hanging limp around a sallow face, lips chapped and eyes dulled from the pain medication. The robe hung loose around a gaunt frame, fingers trembled where they grasped at the sink and for a single, terrifying moment Tony didn’t recognize the man in the mirror and then in a split second of hysteria wondered whose life he was living because this couldn’t be his, not way, not Tony Stark, it couldn’t be Tony Stark who was looking in the mirror and then out in the bedroom and wondering if he was hallucinating or if what he thought he was seeing was actually was he was actually actually seeing...

Actually actually seeing James. Was James actually actually here?

James.

... James?

Am I dead yet?

“Are you really here?” Tony propped himself up against the frame of the bathroom door because it was the only thing keeping him on his feet, held onto the doorknob with fingers that couldn’t quite close in a fist. “Are you-- is this--” 

He smacked too dry lips. “Are you here here? Or am I seeing things again.” 

“I--” James cleared his throat and tried to talk, but it didn’t work so he cleared his throat and tried again. “I’m right here, Tony. I’m here. You’re not alone.” 

“Jesus.” Tony scrubbed a hand over his face and sighed. “I uh-- what are you-- how are you--” 

He shook his head, grimaced. “Sorry, the meds make me-- I’m here.” he tapped at his temple. “But not--it’s slow. Everything is slow. How are you here? Why are you here?” 

James’s throat jerked as he swallowed, the muscle in his jaw jumping as he ground his teeth together, trying to find words or explanations or anything that would get them through all the terrible explanations and questions and right to the point of being able to hold each other. 

God he wanted to hold Tony but Tony looked so weak and James was scared but he was also so fuckin’ angry. 

So fuckin’ angry and so hurt about the lies and the hiding and so goddamn scared because Tony was so goddamn weak.

“You knew you were dying.” He started slowly, working hard to keep the devastation from his voice. “Didn’t tell me or Ms. Potts or Rhodey, right? Knew you had limited time and that’s why you told me-- when we met in the diner you said the offer to make me a new arm was going, going, gone. Was that some sorta sick joke?” 

“It wasn’t a joke.” Tony plucked at the tie of his robe, wanting to cringe away from the hardness in James’s tone but not able to muster the energy. “It was just-- c’mon. You’ve seen how I deal with tough stuff, James. I-- I-- I--” 

“S’why you wanted to find out who I was so bad.” James looked up at the ceiling like JARVIS would validate his thought. “You wanted to find my family so I wouldn’t be alone after you left. It’s why you went to D.C. to find Stevie.” 

“Yeah I thought you and he--” Even swallowing hurt, and Tony tried not to flinch when his throat lit up raw. “I thought-- you know, shared trauma. And pasts. No one has a shared past like you and Captain Rogers do.” 

“You found out about me being--” James pursed his lips. “About Hydra? What they did to me?” 

“Had notes from Howard and from Auntie Peggy.” Tony put a hand to the reactor and pressed hard as it so he could breathe without it shifting in his chest. “Pretty easy to put two--” god it was hard to breathe. “--to put two and two together--once I knew who you were. It’s sad but it’s-- it’s in the past, right? We can-- you can-- move on.” 

“Sergeant James Buchanan Barnes, of the 107th.” James said dully. “Bucky Barnes, right? You found out who I was and dumped me on the first person who’d want me and then left me alone?” 

“James.” Tony tried for a smile, and failed. “Or--or Bucky. Bucky. D-Didn’t dump you on anyone. Reunited you and your best pal, best friend. Captain Rogers and--and--” breathe. breathe. breathe, damn it. “--Sergeant Barnes are as American as apple pie and peanut butter and jelly. You belong together.” 

“I belong with you!” There was the anger, flaring hot and bright as James jumped to his feet and the chair clattered over behind him. “Damn it, Tony! I belong here with you! I should have been here with you when you needed me!” 

“James--” Tony closed his eyes when his vision swam. “Um-- Bucky--” 

“My name is James!” the soldier shouted and Tony stumbled away from it, away from the anger and the hurt and the betrayal in those beautiful eyes. “My name is James and you know that because you know me! You know me, Tony! You know me and you--you found me--” 

One step forward, then two and then three and the anger fell away as suddenly as it appeared. James went down to his knees in front of Tony, wrapped both arms around that too thin waist and clutched him tight, clutched him desperately. “You found me, Tony. You found me and then you left me and what was I supposed to do?” 

“S’posed to re-unite with the Captain and ride off...into the sunset together.” Tony shuddered and nearly collapsed, slumping forward onto James and resting unsteadily on those broad shoulders. “You were supposed to-- James, I found who you were. I tried to make sure you were okay.” 

“I’m only okay with you.” James gripped at Tony’s hips, ran his hands up to feel bony ribs. “Tony, you were just gonna go off and die alone? Let the poison ruin ya? Sugar, sweet thing, how could you think I wouldn’t want to be here with you? Three weeks. Three weeks I’ve been waitin’ for you to call me and then I find you like this? Tony, why?” 

He reached up with his left hand and tore the robe away, shredded the thick material and threw it over his shoulder and then pushed his face into Tony’s stomach to muffle a sob when he saw the ugly black crawling beneath Tony’s skin. It looked like scars but so much worse, like cracks in china, like death under porcelain, like tar spoiling something pure and perfect and his. 

“Babydoll.” James got to his feet and buried his fingers into Tony’s hair, brought him in for a careful careful kiss, spread his left hand as far as it would reach over the poison so he could protect Tony, protect his heart. “Babydoll, why did you send me away?” 

“I’m sorry.” Tears then, falling from Tony’s eyes and trickling down his cheek to mingle in another kiss and then another, his lips numb from the medication and heart pounding beneath James’s palm when his legs finally gave out and the soldier caught him up into a hug. “And I--I missed you-- I-- I missed--” 

The smaller brunette made sound like his very core was splitting as Tony finally let himself admit-- “I’m so scared. James I’m so scared, I’m so s-scared.”

“I’m scared too but I’m here now.” James wiped away tears and kissed away a quiet sob. “Sweet thing, I’m here. We’re gonna figure this out. We got it, Tony. We’ll figure it out, I promise. Just don’t send me away. Don’t hide from me, okay? Okay?” 

“...I think it’s too late.” Tony clung to James, half grateful for his presence, half terrified that this would be the last time, the very last time. “Shit I-- I think it’s too late. I waited too long cos I couldn’t figure out how to fix it and now it’s too late.” 

“We will figure it out.” James repeated, firmer. “Tony, you found me.” He wound their fingers tight and pushed their foreheads together. “You found me and you know me and for the first time in my entire life I don’t gotta hide, not when I’m with you. I don’t gotta hide who I am or who I love--” 

Tony sucked in a shocked, ragged breath and James only pressed tighter to him, held him closer and tried so hard to breathe adoration into every word.

“Don’t gotta hide who I love anymore, sweet thing.” He murmured. “So don’t hide from me. Don’t hide from me, not your being sick or how awful it is or bad you hurt or-- or nothin’ else alright? No more. Please. Please?” 

“N-no more hiding.” Tony managed and James kissed him soft and slow and achingly tender. “Promise.” 

“I love you.” James said it for real then, and it was the most beautiful thing Tony had ever heard whispered into his ear and mouthed into his hair and down across his cheek to his mouth,. “Sweet thing, I love you. And m’not lettin’ you go anytime soon. I swear it. I swear it. You’re mine sugar. Took me seventy years t’find ya and I’m not letting ya go, not for nothin’.” 

“God, I love when you talk all Brooklyn for me.” Tony tried to laugh, tried to smile, but instead he just pushed his face into James’s neck and shook through a body racking sigh. “But I don’t know if--I mean what if it’s too late?” 

“You’re a goddamn genius, babydoll.” the soldier said firmly, stroked purposefully over Tony’s thready pulse then left a featherlight kiss over the same spot. “You built that lab downstairs, built me an arm, figured out how to do the whole super hero thing. Invent something, sugar. Create somethin’ to fix this.” 

“James--” 

“But more than all that, you found me when I had no chance of finding myself.” James interrupted. “And I found you when I thought I’d never have anything ever again. So let’s do this together. Find a way to fix this and get towards a happily ever after.” 

“Happily ever after.” Tony felt the first spark of hope in weeks. “You-- you think?” 

“I think I can’t wait to go and get lost with you on the beach somewhere at sunset.” James tipped Tony’s chin up carefully carefully so he could look deep into his eyes. “And I’ll help with whatever I can to make sure that happens. You just tell me and I’ll do it, sugar. Whatever it takes. I’m here and we’ll figure it out.” 

And then quieter, “And if it doesn’t work, I’m gonna be here anyway. You’re not doing this alone. Not again, not anymore. M’here, sweet thing. Don’t hide from me.” 

“O-okay.” Tony finally nodded, relief making his breath catch in a half sob. “Okay, let’s figure it out.” 

“And then we’ll get lost together.” 

“And--and then we’ll get lost together.” he nodded again and pressed close to his soldier. “... I love you.” 

“I love you too.” James swept his mouth along the shell of Tony’s ear and gathered him as close as he dared, soothing the shivers with his warmth and hiding his own tears in Tony’s hair. “I love you too.” 

***************

Chapter Notes: 

I kept this one short just to not take away from the impact of the moment. Nothing like that very first ‘I Love You’, right?

SAY SOMETHING ABOUT THE CHAPTER!

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@ships-galore @ceealaina @izziebladez @cwar1864 @hausoffro @tonystarkisanangel​ @multishippinglife @girlnic @iam93percentstardust @paranormalmoonlight5​ @igotloki​ @moosette05​ @wayward-student-philosopher​ @kaz-brekkers-gloves​ @atomicfandombomb​ @1fuckingshitup69​ @agentlokii​ @livewire28​ @tulipsnbigcats​ @kimstark​ @alex-stark-rogers​ @bibbarnes​ @heeeyitskay​ @goindownshipping​ @justaniche @actual-demon-belial

@quietgayguy @bluedreamdino @akimi-youngblood @blackstar1602 @dixiehellcat @travellover1245 @capnstarkey @the-awkward-teenaged-one @thanossucks @peteryoulittleshit @tony-and-steeeb @striving-artist​ @roe-sesandthorns @coolsidedpillow @i-am-worth-it-25 @firelightmystic @maligatorthealigator​ @simsccsol​ @a-tardis-in-221b​ @happyendingrequired​ @everygoodoneistaken11​ @pootie-and-the-snoots​ @megahuffledor​ @xkissmeimirishx​ @crystalskrull​ @hazelbeatsturtle​ @wecollectnightmares​ @endrega23​ @saganarojanaolt​ @the-crazy-house​ @ravynfyre​ @yomama-umbridge​ @lovely--tony @gayspacesprinkles​ @elliotkaingrey​ @warmachinesocks​ @glitternotgold73 

#ncts fics #winteriron #tony stark #bucky barnes

[stopeatingwhales]

“i’ll always love you,” x damon albarn

this one’s for my beloved friend emily, who requested i write something inspired by the song clocks by coldplay for her, and must i say this turned out better than i had anticipated it to. enjoy <3

Paring: 90s damon albarn x reader

Warnings: angst, dysfunctional relationship

Word count: 1.811

Happy late birthday emily x

༉‧₊˚✧

Having to endure his enthralling features pick-up multiple women at a bar accompanied by my watching, plastering a pretend look of inattention, attempting to hypnotise my ears with Graham’s words directed at me was the equivalent of absolute torture. It devastated me. Seeing the woman’s eyes glow up, instantly subdued to Damon; his beauty right away changing the plans for the evening. A chat? Maybe. A shag? Definitely. A boyfriend? No way. He would use the poor woman as a ploy to get back at me, perhaps from an argument that had resurfaced from the previous night - which created much bigger issues the following day. He did it countless amounts of times as revenge, and each time - no matter how many times it had been done - it always felt like he was slipping a knife slowly into my heart, twisting it around as leisurely as possible, creating the most excruciatingly horrific pain. Pain that wouldn’t leave, even after he had finished with her, as he stumbled into the cramped tour bus, avoiding my eyes completely. He was butchering me, in all ways notorious to man. 

Patiently waiting, I was expecting for the usual: some sort of scoff, maybe a roll of the eyes - dearly conducted straight at me. There was nothing. The only attack I had received in the majority of ten seconds was the gust of wind blow straight past my face from his grand entrance - exhilarating goosebumps on my cheeks. I pondered over the situation, battling the idea of whether I should hoot at him or not, his body language unattentive to my view. It was almost as if he was avoiding me, avoiding the scene, as if he was contemplating outside whether it would be a good decision to walk in at such a dingy time. He seemingly tried to rush past me as fast as he could, although there was no chance I’d be letting him get to sleep this early. 

“Damon,” I said, sternly, rising from my sleeping position on the couch. His slow movements came to a halt, my ears perking up at the sound of a hefty sigh roll off his tongue. Funnily enough, he knew this was coming. He knew the repetitive argument that was going to play, almost word for word at this point. “What the fuck is wrong with you?” 

The rest of the boys were preciously bunked up in their beds, and unfortunately my angry consciousness had little to no care whether they had any sleep or not; I had not been able to get a clean, crisp night’s sleep since the beginning of the tour. Since the beginning of this all. 

Scoffing, Damon’s stilled stance had now twisted round, his daggering stare locking with my hopeless, tearful one. “Sorry?” he muttered? Cocking his head to the side, waiting for another chain of rows to dance out of my mouth. What a dickhead. 

Closing my eyes, I inhaled sharply. I swallowed the pool of saliva forming on my tongue out of nervousness, the tremble of my hands sending my mind into a pit of anger as I cupped them both into fists, each hand hidden by my sides. “You’re such a dickhead,” I mumbled, shaking my head to the ground in utter disbelief, knowing full-well this wasn’t going to end well; it never did.

I averted to laying back down on the couch from my former standing position, deciding that there was absolutely no reason that I should be giving my all into repetitive arguments, all it ever did was dig a much larger pit of agony than I had before. “Of course you’d say that,” I heard Damon chuckle, aggravation grumbling throughout his voice. He stood still, waiting for my response. If I’m being honest, I wanted him to stay there. Regardless of the life he was sucking out of me, I seemingly needed his presence there. All the time. 

For a short moment, the anger that had riled up in my veins was mellowed, but that softness was interrupted by another evil laugh fleeing his lips. Suddenly, everything that had happened in the past evening came right back at me, leaving nothing but pure rage. “Why do you think that sleeping with other women is going to help?” I questioned, turning my head to once again connect our eyes. He was clearly taken aback at my abrupt and explicit asking, due to his eyes widening slightly at my raw phrasing. I wasn’t going easy tonight. 

“You seem to think that making me feel like dirt on your feet mends our arguments. Why?” I asked again, carrying the same, firm tone I was initiating previously. I wanted him to realise what he had been doing, in the cruelest way achievable. He’s harmed me enough. “Does it seem to please you?”

My gaze never left his face. I studied his features, noticing each twitch, shift, and emotion embellishing his appearance. His face was a blanket of snow, almost exactly like the face of the moon. His head was hanging low, the tips of his fringe guiding his hair to freefall from the gravity. His darkened, gold locks effortlessly matched the dynamic of the room, the colour of the lamp blending in with his figure. The air felt painfully still; my words not just affecting him, but me as well. A sudden rush of wonder coursed through my mind, what if one of the boys were listening? They knew about how dysfunctional mine and Damon’s relationship had become over the past couple months, but they never mentioned a word of it, fully aware that it would be yet another reasoning for an argument.

Eventually, his silence began to taunt me. It felt as if he didn’t want to say anything, but all I wanted was for him to just own up to his actions - something he had never come across doing in his lifetime. “Why do I let you do this to me…” I croaked, my eyes beginning to well up with tears. 

Finally, I shifted my stare to my lap, letting my silent tears flee from my eyes, dripping onto my trousers. I didn’t feel like changing, the sickness that had pitted in my stomach from the thought of Damon with someone else becoming like a sickness for me. All of a sudden, I began gaining flashbacks over the past few weeks, remembering the one conversation that started this all. Let’s have an open relationship. Why? It’ll give us more freedom.

I felt all the emotions pent up, engraved inside my mind all rush back to me, my steady breathing now becoming extremely rapid, water now soaking my cheeks as I sobbed as quiet as possible. I squeezed my mouth shut, my constant sniffles being enough to wake the entire bus of sleeping people. Damon rarely saw me cry, not because I didn’t want him to, I felt incapable of doing it in front of people. The perpetual worry of judgement clouded above my mind subconsciously. My crying now was not only a sign for me that I was impotent of carrying on what we had created between ourselves, but for him, to realise that this was unhealthy. What had we become?

“Y/N…” Damon managed to squeak out, the soft sounds of his feet progressively getting louder as he made his way over to where I was, crouching down to eye level with me. “Love, please don’t cry,” he whispered, caressing my hair lightly. 

Subconsciously, I felt my head lean against his hand, the comfort pulsating warmth through my body. He took note of this immediately, standing up slightly to lay down next to me on the couch, disregarding the little to no room for both of us. Our bodies were touching everywhere imaginable, my heart aching as I felt his arm around my shoulder, tightening our embrace. I shut my eyes, beginning to cry into his shoulder. My sobs quickly escalated to wails, Damon’s caressing putting my mind into a complete state of confusion. “Shhh,” he cooed, peppering kisses all over my forehead. See? This is exactly what he does, every time. 

My cries slowly began to die down after a while of his consolations. However, although my body was completely drained inside and out, I couldn’t rest. I knew he could tell, due to my breathing. “Why do you let me hurt you like this,” he mumbled, his voice cracking at the end of his sentence. He never realised how much pain he was causing to not only me, but to himself. We were torturing each other, the toxicity of the relationship way past the point of mending. Our love was a poison and a medicine; he could dismantle my limbs in such a loathsome manner, yet almost immediately be able to perfectly stitch me back to my previous figure, slobbering sorrowful kisses all over my body, realising he had done no good. 

We were one of those oblivious couples, thinking, assuming that nothing would happen to us. Nothing would tear us apart, nothing at all. But the fear? The fear of love tearing you apart? No, that doesn’t exist. What the fuck is that? The usual reaction. How can the person who brought me the utmost joy, the brightest smile, the love of ten thousand adorning stars and more, be the same man who murdered my belief of love, be the one person who causes me the most torment, rips me, corrupts me, pacifies me in places I didn’t know were a part of my body? And yet, all I find myself doing is lingering back to him. 

“I love you Damon, and I really don’t fucking know why I do,” I mumbled into his ear, breathing in helplessly before carrying on. “But I can’t do this anymore,”

My breath hitched in my throat as those words left my mouth, my mind bewildered that I had said such a thing. I felt Damon tense up, the gulp in his throat more prominent than usual. This conversation was avoided many, many times by the both of us, but there was no use in hiding it anymore. “I can’t live without you,” he mumbled into my hair, inhaling the pungent scent, knowing this would most likely be the last time he’d be able to. 

I knew what my words were doing to him. They were daggers, anguishing sharp stabs in his stomach, exactly like the same stabs he’d given me, simply a hundred times worse. “You’re dying with me here,” I replied, biting my lip in pure melancholy. “Go live your life, you’ll find the love of it eventually,” I breathed, my voice barely inaudible as I released myself from Damon’s grasp, standing up. He was as quiet as he had ever been, trying to take in my words one by one. 

“Just remember I’ll always love you,”

#damon albarn x reader #damon albarn #graham coxon #alex james #dave rowntree #blur #britpop #blur band #imagine #angst #fluff #smut #90s #music

[sourwolfstories]

Hey! Do you have long fic recommendations? Can you involve some soulmate fics but AU are welcome too Long like 50k, 100k+ but really ill read anything

Soulmate fics (at least 50K)

When the Universe Comes Knocking (It’s Polite to Open the Door) by isthatbloodonhisshirt (wasterella)

It was like a door he’d nailed shut in his brain suddenly exploded open, all of his past confusion and anger and hurt and adoration flooding out at once. Stiles? Was it actually Stiles?!

Stiles, the guy he’d had a crush on for fucking years growing up. The guy who’d been an absolute dick to him their whole last year of high school.

The guy who’d told him he loved him in a dirty men’s bathroom on prom night while drunk and upset because he thought Kira was Derek’s girlfriend.

That Stiles? But it couldn’t be!

Marks and Mics by DLanaDHZ

Hale siblings Derek and Laura have been hired to run security for Stiles Stilinski's music tour. Business as usual, except someone is trying really hard to prove they're incapable and hurt Stiles. Derek finds himself curious about Stiles' bitter attitude and a strange illness that plagues the singer. And on top of that, Derek's soulmate remains elusive.

Written Can’t Be Denied by lookslikenico, winglesswarrior

Since time immemorial the story of ‘soulmates’ has persisted. In short, the idea that somewhere out there is your perfect match, the one person who can complete you and with whom you can find total happiness.

The story goes that, the first time you meet your ‘soulmate’, the universe will give you a sign in what should be the most obvious way - somewhere in your immediate vicinity the word ‘soulmate’ will appear. If reports of ‘soulmates’ are to be believed, rather than being written of as hopeful delusions, then this ‘obvious’ signal is anything but, fleeting as it is. The word seemingly only appears for a matter of moments and only when two people first meet. There is no guarantee that they will be looking in the correct direction to see it, nor that they will have any idea who their supposed ‘soulmate’ actually is.

A fact that causes havoc the day that up and coming actor, Stiles Stilinski holds up a bottle emblazoned with the word 'soulmate' in the middle of a press conference where Derek Hale is working as a photographer, in the middle of the worst day of his life...

Connected by readridinghood

After the death of his wife, Stiles finds himself left alone with their three children, struggling to keep from being sucked into a void of grief and despair that her death left him with. Knowing his children are safe in the pack's arms under Derek's watchful eyes, he struggles to regain his footing. What do you do when the world keeps tumbling over you and what you've thought of as fact no longer holds true? As the world comes back into focus, so does the love for Derek he thought he'd long since conquered and now with his eyes open, what he thought was the end of him, is only a new beginning. A decade after he fell in love with Stiles, countless days of keeping himself restrained while building a friendship with him, Derek finds out with absolute certainty that Stiles is his mate. You only mate once in your life, so how is it that Stiles was mated to Sophia, his wife and mother of his three children, the woman he is grieving the loss of at the same moment that Derek makes his discovery.

Three Marks by sanam

"And then there was pain again, but this time it was in only three places—his arm, below his clavicle, and next to his heart, all on the left side. It felt like the skin was being sliced apart, ripped open, flayed off— And suddenly it was done. Derek looked across the room and saw the boy on the floor, looking about as bad as Derek felt."

Derek and Stiles learn that bonding is probably best done with ridiculous amounts of video games and maybe a little bit of time.

Other fics (at least 50K)

Rich Man, Poor Man by TyReed

During a first date gone horribly wrong, Stiles Stilinksi realizes that the snarky guy he's been asked out by is actually Derek Hale, an heir to Hale Industries, one of the most profitable companies in the entire world. Who is, for whatever reason, interested in the son of a teacher and a cop, a loser who spends all weekend watching movies in his pajamas, and who is also possibly one of the biggest dorks on the Internet.

At the same time, after screwing up their first date horribly, Derek Hale realizes that the funny guy he's asked out is Stiles Stilinksi, the warmest and kindest individual he's ever met in his life, with a family just a loving and caring. Who is, for whatever reason, interested in a guy who screws up everything he does, lacks any semblance of a backbone, and who is possibly one of the biggest history dorks in all of the United States.

These rich and poor men will come to experience a taste of each other's lives, and learn where the real blessings in the world can be found.

Feel it like a fever, burning through the night by LunaCanisLupus_22

“That was my favourite fern,” Deaton declares and Stiles glances at Scott for clarification that such a ridiculous statement just came out of his boss’ mouth.

“You could have just told me not to touch it,” Stiles points out sensibly, squirming inside with something he refuses to believe might be guilt.

Not about the dumb plant, but the instant devastation he’s currently overwhelmingly and inescapably capable of. He can destroy with one touch now.

This is going to complicate things so much.

Or the one where Stiles tries to do the noble self-sacrificing thing: gains a new power, a spectral skin colour and basically ruins his own life. 0/10 would not recommend.

It’s (Not) a Cult by lhr111

“Well Stiles, you told me a few weeks ago that you thought Derek was leading a cult.”

At that Derek whipped his head toward Stiles in shock. “You thought I was a cult leader?”

Stiles will not be shamed. “Well, either you or Peter. Peter made more sense, but since he deferred to you that one time I was a little unsure. I mean, what else could I think with all the weird shit going on. You, hanging out with random high school seniors, doing secret things, ordering them around like you are their parent, them actually doing what you tell them. It’s really weird, okay?”

“Are you familiar with Harry Potter?” Derek asks.

Talk about a non sequitur. “What? What does that have to do with anything? And, of course I know Harry Potter!”

“Well to quote Sirius Black, ‘Once again you’ve put your keen and penetrating mind to the task and as usual come to the wrong conclusion.’"

The Sheriff starts snickering, and Stiles is both insulted and also a little in love.

Call Me (Cliché) by SomewheresSword

When the sheriff's sister ends up in a wheelchair for the duration of summer, Stiles' dreams of three months full of pack bonding, late-night video games and bro-time with Scott come crashing down. He's temporarily relocated to Redford, a three hour drive away, and he can already tell he won't be getting many visitors.

Sure the pack will forget about him while he's gone, Stiles is determined to make the most of his summer of isolation, training his body and mind - and his magic - so he can come back with a bang, and maybe catch a certain Sourwolf's eye.

Then Derek shows up at his window one night with a flimsy excuse about needing research done. Suddenly, his summer away is looking a whole lot more interesting.

There’s No Escape for the Potato Man by isthatbloodonhisshirt (wasterella)

“Who is this? Where’s Erica?”

“Wrong number, asshole!”

“Stop calling me an asshole,” the man on the other end snapped aggressively.

Stiles could understand. He’d be pretty aggressive too if he’d murdered someone and texted a wrong number to ask for help burying the body. This guy obviously failed How To Be a Serial Killer 101.

“What kind of idiot thinks I murdered someone?”

“The kind of idiot who got your text messages, you fucking dumbass!” he retorted hotly. “Maybe double check your contacts before sending a random stranger details on your nefarious plans to dispose of a freshly cut up body!”

“What?!” the guy on the other end demanded, crossed between horrendously confused and livid.

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

If you want more soulmate fics you can check that tag here

you can also find more long fics here and here

Happy Reading :)

#answered #anonymous #sterek #sterek fic rec #sterek fanfic #sterek fanfiction #soulmates au

[det-nicoletterogers]

I saw [NICOLETTE ROGERS] at a coffee shop in [BROOKLYN] today. I forgot how much [SHE] looks like [BRIE LARSON]. They are a [TWENTY-NINE] year old [DETECTIVE] who’s been in NYC for [TWO YEARS] now. Every time we run into each other, they are always [LOYAL AND FIESTY] but I’ve heard people say they can also be [IMPLUSIVE AND SNARKY]. [LIPSTICK WONDER WOMAN BY TYLER BRYANT AND THE SHAKEDOWN] reminds me of them every time it comes on the radio.

hi all! i am so so so excited to be here! my name is nika and this is my sweetie pie wrapped in a cactus shell, nic rogers (though if she ever heard me call her a sweetie pie i’d be dead). you can check below for a lot more information about her but i would love any and all plots. she has some listed below as well but we can get creative! feel free to message me or hit me up on discord at ichoosenikachu#4859. see ya soon (or not, its ok either way.....) :) 

(tw: death, gun violence, parent leaving/broken home)

B A C K S T O R Y

born & raised in good ol’ chi town–never left, at least not for long. loves it here immensely, couldn’t imagine going anywhere else. mom was a clerk at a local publishing house and dad worked in construction after he finished his tour of duty as an army man. her older brother was a detective in the chicago police department, but more on him later.

mother ran out on the family when nic was eight for her boss, head of the publishing company that she worked for. didn’t even bother to say goodbye–just up and left without a word. her dad was heartbroken and left to support his two kids alone, something he was not prepared for.

see, her dad always wanted sons not daughters, so nic’s surprise arrival was nothing short of a nightmare for him. of course he loved his daughter, but he didn’t have any sisters of his own and had never grown up around women. so he kind of, pushed her into more stereotypical masculine things, as a way for him to not have to worry about raising her any differently. sure there were moments of pure panic for him (hello, time of the month) but he seemed to be pleased with himself.

meanwhile, nic could tell that she was definitely the least favorite child. her brother was always the golden boy and her father spend exponentially more time with him than he ever did with her. however, that didn’t mean that her brother and her didn’t have a good relationship.

nic was often teased growing up because she didn’t have a mom and came from a lower ses part of town. so her brother became her closest friend and she adored him. she looked up to him, tried to be like him. she thought she might get her father to love her if she succeeded.

but the difference was that everyone liked her brother–he was calm, organized and confident. nic, on the other hand, was plucky and sassy and seemed to crave chaos in a way her brother never did. she wouldn’t ever be like him, and it kind of broke her heart to know her father would never be proud of her. so she did her own thing, made a life for herself that wasn’t always emulating her older brother. she was determined to get her life right, the way she was convinced her dad hadn’t.

however, she and her brother were still very close and they’d often have a meal together at least once a week. he’d regale her with stories of his time at the department, and she–working as a beat cop on a completely different schedule–enjoyed giving him a hard time about what he could have or should have done. it was a rather happy time in her life–one she enjoyed for many reasons.

(tw: death, gun violence) but, y’know, life isn’t happy for long. on a cool spring evening, her brother was walking home from weekly dinner with nic. he had taken a longer route than usual because he wanted to enjoy the finally warmer air of the city. as he made his way home, he heard rustling in an alleyway and assumed it as a cat stuck in a cardboard box–turns out it as not, and with a flash of light and a louder bang, her brother was no longer with us.

when nic found out, she was distraught. broken. her whole world felt shattered and the person she needed the most–her husband–had decided to go off and sleep with some other woman, leaving her even more devastated. so nic’s life had kinda crashed and burned in one fell swoop.

the only reasonable thing to do is, of course, honor her brother by becoming a detective in the CPD…except her father is none too pleased with this idea and, in one of their famous fights, tells her that “girls can’t do that job.” turns out, that is not what you say to a stubborn, grieving woman because that just makes her do it more. truly though, her father was just terrified he’d lose her too but once again, he wasn’t good with his emotions and couldn’t express that.

so nic became detective nicolette rogers to honor her brother…and to see if she couldn’t solve the mystery of her brother’s passing, finally avenging him. her new role gave her the separation she needed from the pain of both losing her brother and husband and, perhaps for the first time in her life, finally fit.

H E A D C A N N O N S

important note: nicolette never goes by her full name–it’s nic or anything else, but never, ever nicolette.

she is the biggest fan of chicago sports–catch her cheering for the cubbies all day long. and don’t forget da bears.

her last meal would include: a chicago dog from wrigley field with a baja blast and white cheddar popcorn. and probably a slice of cheesecake for desert.

nic loves helping people–it is why she originally started working in the police force to begin with. even now, as a detective, she goes does the youth education program, going into schools and doing workshops for the students in the local school districts (think detective jj bittenbinder but…significantly less creepy).

her favorite show is–yes, cliche but she’s ok with that–brooklyn 99 and she absolutely adores amy santiago.

she rides a motorbike mostly because she likes the wind waving in her hair.

but don’t get her confused–she’s the biggest dork you’ll ever met, loves people and adores babies, and will help literally anyone who asks. her hearts a little…shredded at the moment but she does her best to be good.

P L O T S

Best/Close Friends

Childhood Friends

Police Force Buds

Police Force…Enemies????

Flings

idk im always down for plots leggo

#[[lipstick wonder woman; bio]] #villageintro #tw gun violence #tw death #tw parent issues

[440mxs-wife]

The Hunter’s Princess - Chapter 6: Getting Complicated

Pairing: Dean x OFC Kira (eventual), Prince!Dean x OFC Lady Kira. Other Characters: Sam Winchester, Prince!Sam Winchester, Castiel, Rowena, Gabriel, King!John, Queen!Mary, Lucifer and assorted minor characters.

Chapter 6 Word Count: 2800+

Warnings: Feelings. Otherwise, none really.

A/N: This is from some material that’s been rattling around in my head from another project that changed direction. Couldn’t let all this content go to waste, though, so here it is. It’s a work-in-progress, and I will try and update as regularly as I can. If you want to be tagged in this series, send me a message!

A/N2: I would like to thank everyone for your support and your comments so far. I hope you are enjoying this as much as I am having fun writing it.

Thank you and happy reading!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Kira opened the door to her room in the castle and her bed was the most welcome sight she'd ever seen. She removed her leather gauntlets and her knee-high boots, then crawled under the covers. As the urge to sleep crept through her body, Kira's mind drifted back to her first meeting with Prince Samuel.

When she met him at the pub, he'd seemed a bit stand-offish, detached. Since the incident with Danielle, Prince Samuel's attitude towards her has appeared to have changed. He'd shown more of an interest in her, and she wasn't quite sure what to do about it yet.

All because there was....Prince Dean. Kira had felt the spark with him the moment he asked her for a beer in her pub in that deep, sexy voice of his. Of course, that was no surprise to Kira, given how she felt about the Dean she hopefully still had waiting for her at home.

The Dean Winchester she loved showed her the same playful, cocky attitude as the princely version, at least on the outside. But Kira knew her Dean had a softer side as well, like the one that knew all about her because he listened. How Kira liked her coffee, how thunderstorms sometimes scared her, her favorite flower. Knowing that he paid attention to those things about her made her feel seen, like she mattered to him.

Sometimes when she was alone with him, she'd turn just in time to see something in his face. A look that, if she didn't know any better, could easily be mistaken for fondness, adoration or even love? Why not? she asked herself. She definitely felt it for him, why was it so hard for her to believe that he would feel it for her?

Prince Dean also seemed to have found a way into her heart as well, going out of his way to spend time with her. For example, he offered to finish the marketplace tour Kira had started with Castiel. He introduced Danielle to his mother instead of brushing the child aside. He even asked the king to postpone the first event of the Princes' Challenge for a couple of days while Kira recuperated.

The situation was starting to get more than a little complicated. It was becoming clear to Kira that wherever or whenever a Winchester is involved, complications are bound to arise.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Dressed comfortably in the sweatpants and sweatshirt she found in her room, Lady Kira wandered into the library. Sam was at one of the tables, making notes from the book he was reading, but Dean was nowhere to be seen.

Out of the corner of his eye, Sam saw Lady Kira approach him, so he rose from his seat and gave a quick bow. "Lady Kira, is everything all right?" he asked.

She chuckled a bit at his formality, and motioned for him to sit back down in his chair. "Please relax, Sam. You don't have to do that," she informed him.

"Okay, I'll try to remember. Are you settling in all right? Finding everything you need?" Sam inquired.

"Yes, everything is fine. The clothes I found fit perfectly, no surprise there. The tub was heavenly, especially with the lavender bath salts, thank you," Lady Kira remarked. "Although, I think the scent triggered a memory. It wasn't mine, but I think it was from the Kira that belongs in this timeline," she said.

"Really? What did you see?" Sam asked.

"People mostly. You, an older gentleman with a beard, two ladies, one with dark hair and one with blond hair. And something with just Dean and future-Kira," she replied tentatively. "It brought to mind a question. What exactly is the relationship between her and Dean?" she asked.

Sam took a deep breath and exhaled before answering. "The answer to that question is more complicated than explaining how she got sent there and you got sent here," Sam answered.

"Please, I need to know, Sam. Every time Dean looks at me, I see a flicker of sadness in his eyes. He looks at me, but he sees her. I can't imagine how much that hurts him," Lady Kira murmured.

"That would most assuredly cause our Kira concern, and she’d want to get to the bottom of it, if she were here," Sam grinned. "That's one of the many ways you are definitely alike, and that's in how much you care about others," he remarked. Sam went on to explain about how he and Dean grew up with Kira and had parents who hunted. Then he talked about how devastated Dean was when their dad made them leave town and Kira behind.

"Did Dean know then how much he loved her?" Lady Kira asked.

Sam shrugged. "I think Dean's known it for a long time. For him, though, knowing it and doing something about it are two different things. Actually, that goes for both of them, because she's loved him for as long as I can remember, but won't say anything to him," he remarked.

"Hmm. And they've been friends for so long, they think that if feelings are declared and something happens, there goes the friendship," Lady Kira surmised.

"Exactly. And let me tell you, it's extremely frustrating seeing two people you love going through so much pain for so long. Especially when it doesn’t have to be that way. Just because they're both too stubborn to accept that they deserve something good, or they're too afraid to take the risk," Sam replied.

She nodded in agreement. "I should tell you that there's a Sam, Dean and Castiel in my world as well. Not to inflate your ego, but you and Dean are the crown princes of the land," Lady Kira giggled. "And Castiel is your best friend as well as head of security for the royal family," she added.

"Huh. Crown princes? Really?" Sam gaped. "Well, I guess you could say that's how it should be," he teased.

"Ha ha Sam, very funny. Did you by chance find out when the next lunar eclipse is? The sooner it is, the sooner I can be restored to my native dimension," Lady Kira said.

"Next one is in five days, which why I'm researching like crazy to try and see what we need to make it happen," Sam responded.

Lady Kira picked up one of the books from the pile in front of Sam. "Five days? Then we haven't a moment to lose," she remarked.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Excuse me, Miss? Beggin' yer pardon, but it's time to rise," Sarah said as she nudged Kira's shoulder.

"Go away, Sarah, I just went to sleep. It can't possibly be time to get up," Kira grumbled.

"Please, Miss!" she urged. "It's time to get cleaned up and dressed for dinner! It would not look good to the king and queen if you were late," she added.

"All right, all right, Sarah. I'll get up," Kira promised. She maneuvered to a sitting position and swung her legs over the side so her feet touched the floor. Her head was pounding and it felt like the room was spinning. Kira suddenly felt a wave of nausea crash over her, so she grabbed the nearest receptacle and emptied the contents of her stomach.

Rowena came through the door in time to see Kira sitting on the side of her bed, shaking and holding her head. "Och, what's the matter, Kira dear? Not feeling well?" she asked.

"No, Rowena, I'm not. But, I need to make an appearance at dinner, because I don't want anyone to think there's anything wrong," Kira explained.

"You stay here and rest. Sarah will wait outside your door and make sure you're not disturbed. I shall send your regrets to the royal family. I will inform them that you will not be attending dinner, that you are under the weather. Not to worry, dear, I shall make sure to convey your deepest apologies," Rowena declared.

Kira didn't have the heart to disagree with Rowena, so she turned back around and got back under the blankets. "Thank you, Rowena," she mumbled as she fell back to sleep. Sarah took a chair out into the hallway to make sure Kira was not disturbed.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Sometime after midnight, Kira woke up feeling much better. She no longer felt nauseous and her headache had all but disappeared. Kira also couldn't get back to sleep, so she pulled her boots on again, then tiptoed to the door. She eased it open to see that Sarah had fallen asleep in her chair. Kira slipped past her on the way down the stairs.

The next event in the Princes' Challenge was an equestrian event, so Kira thought she'd wander down to visit the horses. Collins said the stables were at her disposal, and that she could stop by at any time.

Kira walked quietly among the horse stalls, carefully peeking in each one. Most of the horses were sleeping, but there were a few awake. Those not sleeping nuzzled her shoulder as she walked by. Kira chuckled lightly and lovingly patted each one on the head, making soothing noises. She made a mental note to bring some apples or sugar cubes with her the next time she decided to visit.

She walked to the last stall and there was a black Arabian stallion that she recognized at once. It was her faithful horse, Midnight. He seemed to recognize Kira as well, because he came right to the half-door and laid his head on her shoulder, just like he used to do.

"Hey, Midnight," Kira whispered. "It's so good to see you, boy. I can't believe you're here. It's been a long time, my friend," Kira said. She closed her eyes as she stroked down the front of his face, lost in memories of her Aunt Brenda's farm.

"Good evening, Lady Kira. I hope you're feeling better," a husky voice said, interrupting her thoughts. Kira gasped and her eyes flew open, but she wasn't startled enough to spook Midnight. Prince Dean. Her hand flew to her chest to calm her hammering heart.

"I didn't mean to scare you," he apologized, holding up his hands. "I just wasn't expecting anyone to be around here this time of night," he explained. "We missed you at dinner. Well, I missed you at dinner," he remarked softly.

Kira could feel the blush rise in her cheeks as she gave a quick curtsy. "I'm sorry that I could not attend the evening meal, Your Highness. I think I got a bit overwhelmed after the competition," she explained.

"I recall thinking that you did not look well, surrounded by so many people," Prince Dean remarked.

"Afterwards, I went up to my room for some rest. I woke up to get dressed for dinner, but I had a massive headache. The room was also spinning, which I think caused me to get sick in the nearest wastecan. When Lady Rowena left for dinner, I crawled back into bed and fell asleep again. I should probably head back to my room," Kira replied.

As she walked past Prince Dean, he gently caught her hand. "Wait. Please don't go just yet. I've been having trouble sleeping these past few nights. Usually I find myself here, alone, but it would be nice to have some company," Prince Dean pleaded.

"As you wish, Your Highness," Kira responded.

"And how about we drop the titles, hmm? Tonight, right here and right now, just between us we're Dean and Kira, having a lovely chat, getting to know each other," he suggested.

"I can live with that, Your--Dean," she said with a giggle. They walked from the stables and wandered into the garden. They sat down to rest on the stone bench where Kira had first met Castiel.

"So, how do you know Midnight, or I should ask how does he know you? The reason I'm wondering, is because he's a recent acquisition. He didn't arrive here until after you did," Prince Dean asked.

Kira looked down at her hands in her lap. "It may be a simple question, but it's a rather complicated answer," she started, gazing into his vibrant green eyes. When he didn't say anything, she continued. "I am from a world where on your calendar it would be the year 2020. I first met Midnight on my Aunt Brenda's farm, where we used to go riding together all the time. I'm here because my mother's locket--" she held it up for him to see--"transported me here."

"It's a lovely locket. A family heirloom?" he asked.

Kira gaped at Dean's nonchalant reaction after she'd just told him she's from the future. "Um, yes, it is. It belonged to my mother, Ava. In my world, I am from a long line of hunters, including both of my parents. Werewolves, vampires, shapeshifters, ghosts, ghouls, you name it, we hunt it," she explained. "This locket and its secrets have been passed down through generations from mother to daughter. Unfortunately, my mother was killed on a hunt before she could tell me anything about it," Kira finished, tears threatening.

Dean reached over and took her hands in his. "I'm so sorry, Kira," he murmured.

She gave Dean a watery smile in return before she continued. "My hunting partners are two brothers named--wait for it--Sam and Dean Winchester," she finished, lowering her gaze. Kira waited for him to either burst into laughter or call the guards to lock her up for being insane.

Prince Dean's index finger tilted Kira's head up so he could look into her eyes. "For the record, I don't think you're crazy. That night my brother and I walked into your pub? We had just finished taking out a vampire nest in another part of the Eastern province. Us being hunters is something we keep within the family. Collins and Castiel know, but we've known them so long, it's like they're family," he grinned.

Kira grinned as well. "Castiel is an important part of the family in my world as well, only he's an Angel of the Lord," she replied.

Prince Dean threw his head back and laughed at that. "Really? Oh, wait until I tell him that," he remarked. "So....do you have a husband in your world?" he asked.

"No, I'm not married. I'm the best of friends with Sam and Dean and have been since we were children, but....it's complicated as well. Even though they both mean the world to me, I have to admit that Dean has always had my heart. I just don't know how he feels about me, if he feels the same," Kira answered.

"Hmm. I can see what you mean by complicated," he began as he put a hand to her cheek. "But speaking for myself, the one in this dimension? I would consider myself the luckiest man in the world to call you my own. I would be sure to tell you every day what an amazing, kind, strong and beautiful woman you are," he declared.

Dean's eyes flitted up to Kira's hazel orbs down to her plump, pink lips. He slid his hand to Kira's neck, pulled her closer and moved to capture her mouth with his. At the last second, Kira turned her head and cast her eyes downward.

"I'm sorry, but I can't. Dean, I cannot deny how attracted to you I am, but you've only known me for a few days. Besides, there's still the matter of my not belonging here. At some point, we'll figure out how to bring back the Lady Kira that belongs here. I'll go home to my own dimension, to the Dean that I love. If our love is meant to be, it will be, regardless of time and space," Kira explained.

A soft smile graced Dean's face. "I understand, sweetheart. If you want, I'll walk you back to your room so you can get some sleep," he offered.

Kira nodded. "That would be lovely, thank you," she replied.

Once the pair had reached the door to Kira's room, Dean took her in his arms again. He brushed his knuckles on her cheek with one hand as he pulled her close to his body with the other. "Just promise me that at the ball, if you're still here, you will save every dance for me," he said huskily. Prince Dean lowered his head and pressed his lips to Kira's forehead in a lingering kiss.

"For as long as I'm here, I promise. Every dance is yours," she repeated. Kira opened the door and stepped inside, but before she closed the door, she whispered, "Goodnight". Kira leaned her back against the closed door and she heard Prince Dean softly say, "Goodnight" in return.

She closed her eyes as she thought back on the events that occurred after sneaking out of her room. A smile slowly spread across her face as Kira turned on the light so that she could find her sleeping attire.

Part 7 here!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Tags: @janicho88 @akshi8278 @magssteenkamp @swiftlymoniquesblog @lyarr24 @miss-nerd95 @distefano123 @hobby27 @deanwanddamons @jessica-noel94 @wayward-mikaelson @jawritter @gabrielslittleangel @jensengirl83 @deangirl93 @ellewritesfix05 @supernatural-jackles @babygurltt @flamencodiva

The Hunter’s Princess Series Tags: @supernatural-love14

#dean x ofc #dean winchester x ofc #au!dean winchester x ofc #au!dean winchester #spn #au!supernatural #The Hunter's Princess series

[kuriboo]

Hugsaku 2021

Day 4 - Family | “I can’t remember my parents’ faces.” | “I’m used to being alone, so it’s fine.”

This is part of a continuous story I’ve been writing for hugsaku. You can find previous parts either in my previous hugsaku posts or on ao3. The general story is: Yusaku ends up in Heartland with no idea how he got there, and Yuma decides to help Yusaku figure out how to get home. I’ll post a link to the ao3 in the notes.

Yuma and Yusaku are very interesting for this case, since their family situations are sort of the opposite of each other. 

⁂

Yusaku kicked a rock lightly as he walked down the path behind Yuma, his hands in his pockets. Over the past few days, Yuma had been giving Yusaku a casual tour of the city while they kept an eye out for Numbers.

“Oh, there’s some litterbots.” Yuma pointed over to their left at a group of robots picking garbage up from the ground. “They’re these robots that go around the city and pick up garbage people have dropped. I’m not really a big fan of them, though. They keep thinking I’m garbage and they’ll pick me up and… It’s gross.”

Yusaku shrugged. “The robots would know better than me.”

“Hey, come on, you're supposed to be on my side!” Yuma protested.

Yusaku looked away, now staring at the litterbots. He could just barely hear them talking as they did their duty. They didn’t look like anything he’d seen in Den City, but something about them reminded him of…

“Are you listening to me? Hey, uh, are you okay?” Yuma looked up at Yusaku’s face with a frown. Then he followed Yusaku’s gaze to the litterbots. “Do you have those where you’re from, too?”

“No.” Yusaku paused for a moment “I’m probably just homesick or something. For some reason, those litterbots remind me of Roboppy.”

“Who’s Roboppy?”

“They’re a little cleaning robot I have. They’re very common around the city I live in. I built my Roboppy myself and edited their programming to give them a bit of a personality.”

“Whoa, that’s really cool! You gotta be really smart to do something like that.” Yuma frowned. “Do you miss Roboppy?”

“...I don’t know.” That was difficult to figure out. “It’s not like I wish they were here, but… Every day, after I came home, Roboppy would greet me. They’d be happy to see me. I’ve been so used to it that I never gave it a second thought until I ended up here and haven’t been able to see them. I think I just...miss that part of my routine.”

“Hmm. I could say hi to you whenever you come home.”

“I only leave the house when I’m with you, so that wouldn’t make any sense.” Yusaku rolled his eyes. “Besides, you’re not Roboppy.”

Yuma opened his mouth to respond, but he was interrupted. That’s when they spotted the first person with a Number Yusaku had seen since he met Yuma.

Their eyes glowed red, and there was a strange glow around the rest of their body.

“Numbers amplify the darkest desires of their host,” Astral explained quietly to Yusaku while Yuma loudly confronted the other person. “When they possess you, they block out everything else. When you resisted the Number you held, that’s what you overcame. It seems most humans cannot.”

Yusaku looked at Astral with a frown.

He could tell that Number he’d had was powerful when he held it. He’d wanted to keep it, even without knowing if it would work well with his deck or any of his cards at all. But the card seemed like it could’ve been a useful tool for his goals. Why did he want to keep it? How much of it was because he didn’t like to duel, and how much was because he’d already committed to walking into a path of darkness long ago? After all, he’d never set out specifically to be a ‘good guy’. That’s just how it worked out.

Astral looked away from Yusaku. “Well, the only way forward is to win this Number in a duel. You should stay out of this; it’s dangerous to duel a Number without one of your own. They can only be defeated by other Numbers. Yuma and I can take care of this.”

Yusaku had no objections to that. He certainly wasn’t eager to jump into a duel.

“Yeah, we got this, no problem! You can cheer for us!” Yuma ran over to Astral and Yusaku. “Hey, Yusaku, where’s your Duel Gazer?”

“My what?”

Yusaku already knew that this place didn’t have a virtual duel world like he was familiar with. But apparently, duels here made use of augmented reality technology. In order to see what was happening in the duel, you needed to look through some accessory. That set off several red flags in Yusaku’s head.

“I’ll pass,” he told Yuma once the whole thing had been explained to him.

“But you won't be able to see me crush this guy.”

“My ears work perfectly fine,” Yusaku said. Right now, he had no interest in seeing anything using augmented reality. Listening would be good enough.

The duel was difficult to watch. Yusaku envied the way Yuma could have fun dueling no matter what. Really, he did. Yusaku hadn’t been able to experience that since he was much younger than Yuma, and he suspected he wouldn’t be able to for many years to come if he ever would be able to at all. But Yusaku did used to enjoy the game, and he wished he could have fun again now. Watching Yuma have fun wasn’t the difficult part. What made this hard for Yusaku was how unprepared Yuma had come to this duel, knowing he would have to duel again soon and knowing how important it would be to win.

At least Astral knew what he was doing, but ultimately Yuma made all the final decisions between the two of them and Yuma had a tendency to get annoyed by Astral’s suggestions and ignore them. 

Yusaku could barely breathe through the close calls that Yuma barely made it through. Yuma didn’t know a lot of his own cards’ effects. At one point, Yuma tried to play a trap card face-up in his monster zone. Trap monsters still had to follow the rules of traps. (“But it says when you play it to summon it like it’s a monster!” “Yuma, that only takes place after you activate the trap like you would any other trap.”)

In the end, however, Yuma and Astral were able to win the duel and take the Number back. Astral didn’t remember any significant memories from the Number; nothing helpful for Astral nor Yusaku.

Yuma ran to Yusaku after the duel. He didn’t seem fazed by any of the mistakes or close calls from his duel.

“That duel was so much fun!” Yuma yelled. “It was a tough one, but I was feeling the flow, and my dad’s cards came through like they always do!”

“Your dad’s cards?” Yusaku asked.

“Yeah.” Yuma closed his right hand around the key hanging from his neck. “This used to be my dad’s, too.” He stared off into the distance, his voice growing softer and quieter than Yusaku had heard it since they met. “Carrying around this key and using my dad’s deck, it’s like he’s here with me. They remind me of everything he taught me.” He frowned. “My… Both my parents disappeared. I know they’re still out there somewhere, they gotta be, but it’s still hard not having them here, sometimes. Using his cards helps.”

Yuma had been upbeat, stubborn, and cheerful the entire time Yusaku had been in Heartland City. But on this topic, all of that seemed to strip away from Yuma, leaving him melancholy and vulnerable. Deep down, it seemed Yuma stubbornly refused to call anything impossible because hope was the only thing he could do.

Asking about Yuma’s deck had led them into a topic that seemed difficult for Yuma. Yusaku felt bad; he hadn’t meant to hurt him.

It struck Yusaku how similar their situations were...and yet, completely the opposite. Yusaku was the one who went missing, while for Yuma, it was his parents. Yuma never gave up hope his parents were out there. Yusaku wondered if that was how his parents felt back them. Of course, after he was rescued…

Yuma sniffed. “I shouldn’t mope about my own problems to you when you’ve got plenty of your own. Yours are probably so worried about you.”

For a moment, Yusaku forgot how to breathe.It seemed like parents still happened to be a sore spot for him as well. At least when the topic was his own parents. He cleared his throat. He needed to say something. (He didn’t see how his problems could be considered any more important than Yuma’s right now.) “I wouldn’t know.”

“Are your parents missing, too?” Yuma asked.

Yusaku shrugged. “Maybe. I haven’t seen them in years.” 10, to be exact. Not that it mattered or anything. “After I was rescued, they just weren’t there. They never came back.” His words got stuck in his throat. Yuma clearly looked up to his father, had found memories and a lot of love for his parents. As for Yusaku… “I can’t even remember my parents’ faces.”

“That’s awful.” Yuma looked devastated by the information. He lightly touched Yusaku’s arm, trying to offer comfort without overdoing it. 

Yusaku didn’t push him away. “I’m used to being alone, so it’s fine.”

“That’s not true!” Yuma insisted. “Just because you’re used to it doesn’t make it okay. I’m used to my parents not being here, but that doesn’t make it okay. I miss them constantly. Kari misses them. My grandma misses them. It’s not good to be alone.” He paused. “If you’re used to being alone, you probably don’t have siblings, do you?”

“Not last I knew, which was a decade ago.” Yusaku hummed in thought. “I think the closest I’ve got is… Kolter’s brother was a victim of that incident, too.” No need to specify any further on Jin’s current state when that was private, and not Yusaku’s story to tell. “Kolter and I have been working together. We met because we both needed to figure out the truth behind what happened. Kolter also sells hot dogs for a living; he won’t let me pay him for hot dogs anymore, and he keeps a close eye on me. He tries to prevent me from overworking myself and tries to make me take care of myself.”

“He’s like an older brother to you, too,” Yuma commented. 

Yusaku didn’t like to think about it. As a rule, he didn’t get close to anyone. Anyone who came close to him could be put in danger, and no one deserved that. He’d tried to push Kolter away several times when they first met, but Kolter was too persistent. He still felt guilty letting Kolter get involved, and the more he thought about his relationship with Kolter, the heavier that guilt felt. He only ever referred to Kolter as his acquaintance to keep anyone to think they were close, to keep him from worrying so much. Kolter was fully aware of any danger and signed up to work with Yusaku anyway, so worrying was pointless.

“I guess family doesn’t have to always be the people related to you by blood.” Yusaku shrugged. He didn’t confirm nor deny Yuma’s comment. “Sometimes you find people that are a better fit.” It wasn’t hard to be a better fit than someone who never found him again, honestly.

Yuma beamed. “Anyone can be family! As long as you have someone, you’re not alone.” He pulled Yusaku into a hug. “I’m glad you have someone. If nobody missed you, if you didn’t have anyone where you came from, I don’t know if I’d want you to go back, but… I’m happy to get you home since you do. You belong in the world you came from, and…and I get the feeling you and that hot dog guy need each other.”

Yusaku lightly wrapped an arm around Yuma. He didn’t know what to say since he was so wrapped up in his own thoughts.

Here, the incident never happened, and Yusaku wasn’t Playmaker. He still wasn’t exactly sure where that left him. But he had less of a reason to keep up a distance from everyone here since relationships wouldn’t put anyone in danger. He found himself relieved that Yuma still had a family even without his parents, and… He found himself relieved that Yuma was here to help him now. That he wasn’t doing this alone. 

In a way, Yuma was starting to almost feel like a younger brother to him.

#hugsaku #hugsaku2021 #yugioh vrains #yugioh zexal #tater writes #yo there's actual a duel in this one!! and by a duel i mean a duel occurs and it's described as briefly as possible #if you're hungry for an actual duel.......just wait ;)

[yourcoffindoor]

Bulletproof Heart Pt. 1

Pairing: Gerard Way x Reader

Prompt: Request from Anon- “ could you write one where the reader is a rock singer and they and mcr are on warped tour together, and they both lowkey like each other but think they’re both out of each other’s league, and find out that they’re both secretly into nerdy stuff + maybe getting together? thank you so much xxx”

AN: This is a multi-part series--I couldn’t help myself! Also, I based this fic around something Gerard said in a Rolling Stone interview:

Hope its ok Anon! enjoy!

You had dreamed of this moment since you first picked up a guitar. Back then it felt like an impossible fantasy, being on stage with your band, playing in front of a crowd of screaming fans; which is why it felt so surreal when your manager Tim told you that your band, The Violent Delights, had booked Warped Tour.

"June 18th," he told you with a satisfied grin, "you're in for the long haul, kids."

Your band-mates let out a collective shriek of joy, while you planted a grateful kiss on Tim's cheek.

"You're an OK manager, you know that?"

"Yeah, yeah," he said, dramatically wiping his cheek where your lips had been. "Now you guys better get practicing. This is a good opportunity to really get your name out there. Plus you got some real popular acts to compete with."

Your interest was peaked. "Oh yeah? Like who?"

"Off the top of my head? Fall Out Boy, Dropkick Murphys, and I think a band called My Chemical Romance."

"Oh shit, My Chem?" your bassist, Gavin, piped up excitedly. "That's the band I'm always trying to get Y/N to listen to."

"I'll have to finally borrow their last album," you replied, "gotta scope out the competition after all." Gavin rolled his eyes while you laughed.

Your manager got serious. "It's three months on the road, and its gonna take a lot of energy and hard work. Quite frankly, it ain't glamorous."

"Tim, when have we ever been glamorous? I wouldn't care if it were a 12 month tour," you declared, "I wouldn't miss this opportunity for the world." Liz, your drummer, nodded in agreement beside you.

"You might be singing a different tune when you haven't had a shower in three days."

"As long as I'm singing it in front of an audience, we'll be fine."

* * *

Back at your apartment you marked June 18th on your calendar with a star, feeling invigorated with excitement all over again. This was it, you thought, the next level for our band. You were determined to give it your very best, outperforming every other band there.

After all, you had worked so hard to get to this point. Starting in friend's basements and tiny cafes, the band had slowly built up a sizable following of loyal fans. You were no longer the opening act, drawing sell out crowds more often than not. You made a promise to yourself that the band wasn't going to lose this momentum. There would be no distractions for you on this tour, just hard work and the thrill of performing. That meant no parties, and absolutely no boys. You weren't ready for another relationship, you told yourself, especially since the last one ended in disaster.

Yes, this was the moment the band had been waiting for. You let the warm excitement that this knowledge brought envelope you, and you lay your head down on your pillow, falling asleep to fantasies of what lay ahead.

* * *

Its a long road from Maryland to Ohio. Columbus was the first stop of the tour, which meant your band had 6 and a half hours to go over the set-list, make adjustments  discuss their hopes and fears for the three month experience. Gavin gave you a few CDs to listen too, including My Chemical Romance's Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge.  You had heard their first album ages ago and enjoyed it, but there was something incandescent to the music you were hearing now. It stirred a whirlwind of heavy emotion, and you were enthralled from beginning to end. You made a mental note to see them perform at Warped as soon as possible.

When your bus arrived at its destination, you felt the unwelcome buzz of nerves building in your stomach. This was real, you thought, this was happening. You were used to performing at this point, but it was the amount of people you'd be performing for that was nerve-wracking. Not to mention the fellow artists who may be watching and judging your sound. You breathed deep and tried to push past the nervous thoughts that hummed incessantly around your head like insects.

Your band-mates were buzzing about with excitement, but you needed to distract yourself. Fresh air always helped settle you, so you grabbed your shoes and decided to go for a walk around the venue.

It looked almost like a circus with all the trailers and tents that had quickly populated the surrounding area. Merch stands and catering tents were being organizes as dozens upon dozens of vans and trailers pulled in. There were already a few fans camped outside of the chain-link fence that surrounded the area, eagerly awaiting a glimpse of their favorite artists.

You kept wandering, and you saw that a band was being interviewed in the media tent. There were five of them, each holding a microphone; but one member, a dark haired boy, was doing most of the talking. He was cute, you thought, and your stomach did little flips watching him respond to the questions that were being asked.

You watched a little bit longer from a distance, until you felt a tap on your shoulder. You turned to see Gavin and Liz, who had been doing a bit of exploring as well.

"Hey, there you are! I was talking to a few people by the catering tent. They said some bands are having a party on their buses later tonight, we should check it out." Gavin informed you excitedly.

You hesitated. No parties. "I dunno, I want us to be in good condition to perform tomorrow."

Liz chimed in. "All work and no play, Y/N. C'mon, it'll be a great chance to make some connections with other bands."

"If you don't come with us," Gavin pronounced dramatically, "we'll be far too devastated to perform tomorrow." His hand went to his forehead, as though he was about to faint.

"Somehow I doubt that."

"Pretty please?" Liz stuck her lower lip out pathetically.

"With sugar on top?" Gavin added.

You glanced at the black haired boy in the distance. Maybe he'd be there, a small voice in your head piped up.

"Ugh Fine! But I'll only stay for a little bit."

Satisfied, the pair stopped harassing you, and left you to continue wandering, promising to meet up with them later.

* * *

People spilled out from open trailers as music blared from an unknown source in the background. Some were already far gone, stumbling from place to place, or lying on the ground blacked out.

You followed Gavin inside one of the trailers. You watched as he interacted with the strangers inside with ease, a trait you envied. He managed to find you both drinks, and you grabbed the mystery beverage, sculling it in hopes that it would numb your nervousness. You may have been a great performer onstage, but offstage it was easy for your social anxiety to take the wheel.

Gavin began to walk away, ignoring your whispered pleas not to leave you. Fuck. It always felt awkward to not know anyone at a party. You clutched your red cup like a life jacket keeping you afloat in a sea of drunken strangers.

A man approached you out of nowhere, the smell of alcohol emanating from every pore on his body.

"You look lonely." He leered at you expectantly.

"Then it seems like you need glasses. I'm just fine on my own."

He laughed. "Ooo! I like you. You've got spunk. Name's Brent, guitarist from Midnite Heist."

"Can't say I've heard of you guys."

Brent was either oblivious to your indifference, or just chose to ignore it. "So how'd you end up at this party?"

"I'm in a band on the tour too. Lead singer actually."

"No way! That's awesome, we need more talented eye candy on this tour."

You screamed internally while he droned on, tuning him out as you continued to sip from your fast emptying cup.

You scanned the room, watching people laugh and dance. Your stomach suddenly flipped again as you noticed the black haired boy from this afternoon, solemn faced and quiet, silently nursing a diet coke in his hands. He was clearly not having a good time. The guitarist who had been talking you up soon saw you looking at the sullen figure and turned his attention towards him, his eyes lighting up with recognition.

"Gerard fucking Way!" he bellowed, carelessly sloshing his drink as he waved him over, causing a stream of alcohol to fall to the floor below.

Gerard seemed to hesitate before walking over. "It's been awhile man," he said softly. His eyes, a warm hazel, flicked to you repeatedly as he spoke. "you here for the whole tour this time?"

Brent laughed, his sobriety dangling by a thread.  "Yeah, but still not up on the main stage, unlike you big-shots." he said, punching Gerard in the arm. Gerard offered a crooked smirk in return, his patience already wearing thin. Brent nudged you in the arm. "This is Y/N, her band is new to Warped. I told her I'd show her the ropes." He grinned at you. Ugh.

Gerard seemed to sense your discomfort. "Welcome, nice to see a new face around."

Brent interrupted before you could respond. "How come you're wasting time with a coke? I would've expected you to be the first one wasted here."

Gerard's jaw clenched, and you cringed internally at the sheer awkwardness of the encounter. "I'm sober now," he informed Brent, "I don't touch that shit anymore."

Brent laughed dismissively. "Dude, you?  Do you even remember the last Warped tour? I'll give it 2 days before you're lying face down in the bushes again." he laughed as if he had just said something hilarious.

You were livid, and Gerard was on edge. You decided to step in when you noticed his knuckles turn white from clenching his coke can.

You moved slightly, ready to get between them. "Hey you know what? I'd really love a coke right now too. Mind showing me where they are?" you looked pleadingly at Gerard. He took the hint.

"Follow me."

You gave a curt wave to Brent, who looked on in confusion before continuing his drinking binge.

You stepped outside, and the sounds from the party behind you became a faint, thumping buzz in the background. You were both silent for a moment before you decided to break the ice.

"So that guy was a dick."

Gerard's scowl turned into a thin, lopsided smirk. Your heart melted a bit. "Yeah. I just realized some of these people are only tolerable when I'm drunk."

Stop. Move away. You don't need a distraction like this. You tried to scold yourself but words kept escaping from your lips, prolonging the encounter.

"This is my first time doing Warped Tour, but I'm assuming these parties are pretty much never-ending?"

Gerard pulled out a cigarette and lit it. "Oh yeah, its every night for some of these bands. You're in for an interesting experience." You looked at him for a moment, perhaps for a bit too long. You had never seen anyone look so beautiful while surrounded by clouds of smoke.

"Yoohoooo! Y/N!" you heard the hollering of a clearly tipsy Gavin call from the doorway of the next trailer. "Where'd you go? The night is young! Get back here!"

You sighed. "That's my cue. Well actually that's my bassist, but he'll never let me live it down if I don't go back in there."

Gerard turned his head to the side and exhaled. "Catch you around. Next time you need rescuing from a douche-bag just light the bat signal."

You gave him a soft smile, forcing yourself to turn away and walk back to the trailer. As you did, you whispered aloud to yourself as a reminder:

"No distractions. No boys."

#gerard way x reader #gerard way fanfic #my chemical romance fanfiction #fanfic

[ilooklikeaburntchickenugget]

Truths Pt. 2

A/N: So I made a part two! I hope this is better, maybe some improvement has shown. I’m getting a little more comfortable with the character(s) so hopefully this goes okay. Also, I don’t have a large fan base on Tumblr (I have a larger one on Wattpad where I write Marvel and Marvel actor fics), so if you have any requests don’t hesitate to ask me. I really only do Gerard fics, I might do Mikey.

Pairing: Gerard Way x F!Reader Summary: Approximately two years into Gerard’s and Y/N’s relationship, and they go to a red carpet event together. Things get creative and then sweet. Word count: 2309

“You don’t even need makeup.” Gerard complained from the couch at the back of the room you two were in. Mac and Jessica, your two makeup artists, were on either side of you, dolling you up.

“Oh please,” You lightly laughed, “I need a lot of it.”

“I just can’t wait until all of this is over.” He sighed.

“I know Gee.” You looked back for a brief moment at him in the mirror, “But you only go to one red carpet event a year.” “And it happens to be the day before your birthday.” He looked back at you. “I would much rather be preparing for that.” You rolled your eyes.

“Don’t be so dramatic.” You said, “It’s not like we do much for my birthday anyways.”

“Yeah but we could be at home,” He sighed, “Eating pizza or tacos, and I don’t know. Watching some good shit like Star Wars.” “Tomorrow, love.” He lightly smiled.

“Fucking love it when you call me that.” “I know, love.”

“Gee?” His manager walked in. He looked up. “They’re ready to get you dressed.” He let out a huff, getting up and giving you a quick smile.

“See you later.” “Bye, Gee.” You smiled back. It took an additional 45 minutes to get you into your dress and your hair done. You had chosen a long red, velvet dress with just straight hair to keep it simple. Not much of a 2000s look, but timeless nonetheless.

“Ready, Y/N?” Your manager walked in. You nodded, giving one last look in the mirror before walking out and down the hall to Gee’s room. He was already outside talking to a few people when he looked over and saw you. He smiled, looking you up and down before licking his lips.

“Hey, Gee.” You smiled, giving him a quick kiss.

“Hi honey.” He put his hand on the small of your back, pulling you closer to him. He was quite a bit taller than you, even in heels. “You look beautiful.” He told you.

“Thanks,” You smiled, “So do you.”

You and Gee walked out, hands together, as you waited for you turn for photos. He continued to steal glances at you, lightly smiling whenever you caught him. “We just have to do this, for 15 minutes, then we eat okay?” You asked and he nodded. You knew he got anxious before events like this.

When the two of you were finally called out, Gee put his hand on your back, leading you two out. Everyone began shouting your names, the two sounds muffling with one another. Both of you tuned them out, looking in various cameras and giving light smiles.

Moving on to the interview area, one by one you went down the line of journalist prepared with mics and questions. Most of them were going great, a lot of the questions regarding how your band was at a huge level now. Not as big as My Chem, but getting there.

There was one interviewer in specific that seemed to piss off you and Gee though. Both internally, of course. “So, what’re your favorite brands?” The older man asked you, Gerard right next to you.

“Anything at Goodwill.” You answered and the three of you lightly chuckled.

“Can I ask you a question?” Gerard asked the interviewer.

“Sure.” He lightly smiled.

“Would you ask me that?” He questioned,

“Um, no.” He admitted.

“Alright, so then why did you ask her that?” He fired, standing there. You stood there a little awkwardly.

“Well, I um, I just-” “You did because she’s a woman?” He asked.

“Gee, stop.” You mumbled, giving him a look to stop. He sighed, grabbing your hand.

“I think we’re done here. Thank you.” He grabbed your hand, leading you to the next interviewer.

That one went much better. You each got to answer questions regarding your own success, and where MCR was going to go further. You and your group were planning on going on tour in the next few weeks, a lot of the shows sold out as shocking as it was, so you had a full agenda. “So Y/N,” The interviewer turned to you, “It’s your birthday tomorrow isn’t it?”

“Yes, it is.” You smiled.

“Happy birthday!” She said.

“Thank you so much, that’s really kind.” “So, do you two have any plans.” You sighed and looked at Gerard, who was looking at you.

“Flying home at 5 am tomorrow.” He huffed, “And then napping.” “That’s about it.” You admitted.

“Gerard, do you have any plans for her?” “Well, I have a few tricks up my sleeves.” He smiled, “But I can’t tell you. She would know then.”

There was one more interviewer you had to stop by, a young guy who had some fan questions to ask. “Hannah asks: If you two could control the other’s hairstyle, what would you choose and why?” “Good question.” You pondered as Gerard did.

“I would choose natural, like it is now, for her.” He said, “Her hair is really beautiful. I mean, it always is, but it looks really good natural.” “I would probably choose the look from The Ghost of You. It was very handsome on him.” You both lightly smiled.

“The last one is from Michael: Do you two wear each other’s merch?”

“Yes.” You spoke rather fast, “I think I have two or three My Chem hoodies, they’re the comfiest things ever.” “Yes for me too,” Gee said, “I think I have one or two of their shirts, I wear them to bed though.” You nodded.

“I think I may even have one from when I first met you guys.” You said, looking at Gee.

“That’s 2004 right? Then Three Cheers?” “The best hoodie I own.” You smiled. Then the two of you were escorted into the hall, to await dinner. You were sat with Frank and Mikey who showed, as long as Henry from your band and Joe. The few of you began talking with some laughter blending itself into the conversation. Gee leaned in to whisper to you.

“Was that the hoodie you stole from our merch pile on tour?” You lightly laughed under your breath, nodding your head. “You never paid for that, ya know?” “Really, Gee?” You asked, “You’re my boyfriend.” “At the time, I wasn’t.” He smirked.

“What’re you two talking about?” Frank spoke up.

“The time Y/N stole some of our merchandise.” You rolled your eyes, sitting back in defeat.

“That was you?” Mikey asked, as if surprised.

“It was one hoodie.” You fought.

“That’s not that bad.” Frank defended you.

“She still stole it.” Gee fired back, smirking.

“Hey, Y/N, did we ever tell you the time we walked in on Gerard moaning your name while masturbating?” “Frank!” He was on the verge of laughing through clenched teeth.

“There were multiple times actually.” Mikey spoke up.

“When was this?” You lightly smiled and asked.

“2005, Warped Tour.” Your eyes went wide as you looked at Gerard.

“That was before we were-” “Yeah I know, I know.” He sighed, “Can we please move onto something else?”

“So, Gerard, do you have any plans for birthday sex with-” “No.” He stopped Frank, “We’re not going there.” “But do you?” You asked, turning to face him. He rolled his eyes.

“Oh yeah it is Y/N’s birthday tomorrow.” Henry said.

“You forgot about my birthday?” You asked him.

“Yeah, yeah I did.” He admitted.

“I didn’t,” Mikey smiled, “Your cards already been shipped.” “Aw, thank’s Mikey.” You smiled, “You’re my favorite Way brother.” “Hey!” Gerard snapped, “I’m the one sleeping with you.” “But there are other credentials.” You leaned your chin onto his shoulder, looking up at him. “I still love you the most, though.”

It was a long three hours. The only enjoyable part was the free steak, but other than that it was just bland and boring. Like any other award event ever. Just some stupid speakers, stupid winners, and even more stupid speeches.

“I wanna bail so bad.” Gerard sighed, whispering to you. Frank heard it too though, and looked over nodding.

“I know.” You yawned, “Another hour of this shit.”

“We can make up an excuse.” Frank chimed in, keeping his voice low, this time Mikey, Henry, and Joe all looked at you three, extremely attentive and ready to get out.

“How?” You asked, looking at him.

“Pretend your water broke.” “What the fuck?” You turned to Henry who had the terrible idea, “I’m not pregnant. Nor do I look like I’m nine months pregnant.”

“I could pretend to have a seizure.” Frank said.

“No one would believe that,” Gerard chimed in, “And they would call an ambulance and they would probably only allow, like, two of us to go with you.” “Wait,” You said, your mind finally shaping a decent idea. “I got it.”

Next thing you knew, Henry was in the bathroom on his phone, messaging Gerard, to give him some devastating (not true) news. You could hear his phone lightly vibrate in his pocket, him pulling it out to read a text from his “cousin”.

“We should go now.” He looked at the four of you, all of you getting up and moving towards the back doors, some people seeing you. One of the managers of the show stopped you guys. “Mikey and I, our mother’s in the hospital.” Gee began, his voice laced with the essence of distress, “We need to go.” He showed the text. He nodded, letting you all out.

You made your way looking partially in panic (it may have been from the acting or the anxiety of getting caught, none of you were sure) and back to the dressing rooms. Once there, you all got in and let out a sigh of relief. “I think it worked.” Frank said, all of you smiling and nodding.

“I do too.” You spoke up.

“What the hell are you guys doing?” Gee’s manager walked in. “You guys are supposed to be out, watching the show.” “About that.” Gerard spoke up, “We got bored and left.” “You got bored?” He sassed, “You got bored?” “Yeah we made up the excuse that my mom was in the hospital.” He sighed.

“Guys, did it work?” Henry walked in, his face dropping when he saw Gee’s manager, who rolled his eyes and sighed in response.

“Well it’s not like you guys can go back.” He said, “But the press is gonna be up all your asses for the next few days.” You all nodded. He walked out, leaving the six of you in partial shame, but overall relief.

You all resorted back to your dressing areas, changing from the too expensive articles you had on back to jeans, sweatpants, t-shirts and hoodies. The six of you then snuck back out, and into the van that had brought you there from the hotel. “Hey what’s this?” You asked, a grocery bag taking you seat.

“I’ll take that.” Gerard reached over and took it from the area it sat, putting it under his feet. You gave him a confused look, “I’ll explain later.”

The drive back wasn’t bad. You were all pretty tired, so you took a small nap, laying your head comfortably on Gee’s shoulder, which he seemed to not mind. “Babe,” You heard him lightly nudge you awake.

“Mhm?” You asked, getting up and yawning.

“We’re here.” He smiled and chuckled. You all got out, saying bye to one another before heading to your rooms.

“What time is it?” You slipped off your shoes, crashing on the bed immediately after.

“12:15.” He said, smiling. “You know what that means.” “It’s time to go to bed?” “No.” He sighed, “It’s your birthday.” He took the bag and pulled something out of it.

“What is that?” You asked, sinking into the mattress.

“Give me a sec.” He said, doing something with various objects. After a minute or two, he turned around, a cupcake in hand with a candle on it.

“Oh, Gee.” You cooed and smiled, “That’s so sweet.” He sat down next to you, lighting the candle and holding it for you as he began singing happy birthday. You couldn’t help but laugh at it, blushing at how adorable it all was. He finished up the song, letting you blow out the candle, and split the cupcake so you could each have some.

“What did you wish for?” He asked, once the two of you finished. You were laying on the white hotel bed, next to each other and just looking at the ceiling.

“You know I can’t tell you, Gee.” You smiled, “It would ruin the wish.”

“Can I ask you something?” He turned to you.

“Sure.” You turned to him.

“Will you marry me?” He asked and you smiled.

“For real?” You asked and he nodded, “Yeah, of course Gee.”

“Alright, good.” He pulled a little box out his pocket, opening it for a small diamond ring to appear. “Because then I would’ve bought this for nothing.” You lightly laughed giving him your left hand to slide it on. “I love you.” He smiled, once he had put it on.

“I love you too.” The two of you leaned in, kissing one another. “What if we get married? Today?” You asked. He gave you a confused look. “When we get back to New York, head to the courthouse and just sign for marriage.”

“We could.” He said, “I mean, your birthday and our anniversary would be on the same date. Double the sex.” “Gerard!” You laughed.

“What?” He asked, as if offended, “Do I not do a good job.” “No, you do a great job.” You smiled, “But that’s not a great reason to get married.” He nodded.

“We’ll just do it when we want to, when the time’s right.”

“When the time’s right.” You agreed and nodded.

#gerard way x reader #gerard way #my chemical romance #my chemical gee #my chem #mcr #mcr gerard