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notetaeker · 2 months

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RAMADAN CHALLENGE 2024:

Welcome to this years Ramadan Challenge! This is something I've been doing for the past 3 years and it has been so beneficial to me so I hope it is the same for you. Everyone is welcome to join! Please also let me know if u have any suggestions / notice any mistakes ;_;

Special thank you to @nuuralshams 💕 and @laikastudies ✨

RULES:

Reblog this post to let me know you're in! (and to have as reference)

Pls use the tag '#RamadanChallenge2024'

I will be rb-ing every post I see in there (unless it's spam bots)

You can do a question per day or batch them together if you like

You can also do some questions out of order if you want (like answering the surah kahf question on a friday)

Feel free to skip any question or just post abt how ur ramadan went that day / what you ate for iftar / anything tbh

You are also welcome to start late (or early! If you want to use some of the questions as a countdown to Ramadan!)

I also included some Ramadan Prep questions + Eid post if you'd like! ( Very optional!)

I will be starting the challenge when I personally start Ramadan but if Ramadan starts a day earlier for you- you can just start then!

I added a bonus day in case Ramadan is 30 days lol but you can skip it if you want if Ramadan is only 29 days

I will try my best to queue your posts but knowing me I might just mass-reblog 🤡

Anyway Allahumma Balighna Ramadan!!! / Ramadan Mubarak !!!! (based on when you're reading this)

Let me know! If you want to be tagged / reminded when we start!

PREP QUESTIONS (Optional):

Prep day 1: One thing you're looking forward to this Ramadan

Prep day 2: Anything you are scared of / worried about for this year?

Prep day 3: List one thing that would help future-you get the most out of this Ramadan, and go do it now! (if possible)

RAMADAN QUESTIONS:

Day 1: What are your goals this Ramadan? Possible suggestions: 1 habit to build, 1 habit to break, and one accomplishment you hope to gain!

Day 2: What are your other obligations this month? How does it compare to previous years? How do you balance them with ramadan?

Day 3: What is your favorite act of worship? Has it always been your favorite?

Day 4: Ramadan is the month of the qur'an. What is an ayah from the Qur'an that has changed your view of things or impacted you deeply (this year)?

Day 5: Share a treasured ramadan memory

Day 6: Biggest life lesson or advice you would give to others

Day 7: Best iftar item?

Day 8: What is a suhoor necessity to get you through the day?

Day 9: Share a hadith you’ve been thinking about recently or try this link that gives you a random hadith. How does it relate to you? (Does it?)

Day 10: First 10 days end today! Share a taraweeh tip! If you haven't prayed Taraweeh before, what is something that feels difficult about it?

Day 11: How has your experience of Ramadan changed over the years (Has it?)

Day 12: Most challenging thing about Ramadan and how do you try to overcome it?

Day 13: What aspects of the qur'anic science have you explored, and how did that go? (e.g tafsir, translation, memorization, tajweed, recitation)

Day 14: Favorite lesson(s) from the surah kahf stories?

Day 15: Any islamic lecture series / podcast / book that you would recommend?

Day 16: Favorite time to read qur'an during Ramadan? What about outside of Ramadan?

Day 17: What is your Ramadan Routine this year?

Day 18: the second 10 days is almost over! Are you part of any islamic communities during Ramadan? What about outside of Ramadan?

Day 19: What is something you are grateful for this Ramadan?

Day 20: Have you ever done i'tikaf or qiyamul-layl in previous Ramadans? Are you doing any this time?

Day 21: Any feel-good dua acceptance stories to share? It could be your own story, a friend's, or even from a lecture that you heard

Day 22: What is something you always miss about Ramadan when it's over? / What do you think you might miss this year?

Day 23: Are you making dua for anything specific? (Any dua you want us to make for you?)

Day 24: Share an Eid memory that sticks out to you! What kind of Eid traditions do you have?

Day 25: Who is a sahaba (companion of the prophet ﷺ) that you feel inspired by? Can you share the story that inspires you?

Day 26: Your Laylatul-Qadr worship routine! Dhikr? Dua? Salah? Tell us!

Day 27: Mention a favorite story about the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, or which of his qualities you look up to the most.

Day 28: Think over the last month and the Ramadan that you've spent. Is there something you wish you had spent more time on? There's still 1-2 days left! What's your plan?

Day 29: Ramadan is our honorable yearly guest who is now preparing to leave 💔 What are 3 gifts Ramadan is leaving for you as a parting gift until we meet it again (inshallah) next year. It could be habits

Day 30 / BONUS DAY: If you were given an extra day to live, what would you do on that day?

EID: Eid Mubarak! Post a 3x3 or a 3x2 photoset of your eid celebrations! (Optional)

#assalamu alykum everyone ~ so excited #ramadanchallenge2024 #ramadan #islam #muslimblr

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ebodebo · 5 months

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OKAY! New ask!! Alex and Y/N get bored at their recon outpost and decide to see who can complete their workout track faster. (think like the ones they have at boot camps but low quality bc they’re in the middle of a war zone) whoever won got to shower first bc water is limited but it gets a lil steamy at the end🤭

pairing: alex keller x f!reader

a/n: cue me stomping to my computer with my boba in hand to dish this out immediately. ALSO thanks to all the babies who filled out my taglist form and left such sweet comments i love u sm!!

word count: 1.4k+

18+ Content

wanna be on my taglist ? fill out this form !

NSFW CONTENT

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The Great Race

You and Alex were stationed in a recon outpost in Siberia, where the task force was sent to infiltrate Makarov's convoy. You were stationed there to be lookouts, though there were relativity no people around, causing you both to become increasingly bored.

As Alex was wiping his gun clean, he noticed a workout track off to the side of where they were. Well, a track is an overstatement. It was a simple dirt track that looked like it had not been used for years. "You see that track over there?" He questions, pausing on cleaning to look up at you.

You nod your head, not paying too much attention to him. He notices your disregard for his question and decides to say something that will pique your interest. "I would run circles around you on that track."

Your eyes dart up to meet his. "No, you couldn't, Keller." He shrugs. "I know I could." He states as he wipes his gun clean, a slight, knowing smirk forms on his lips.

You swivel your head towards him. "Keller, you are probably the slowest soldier I have ever seen." He rolls his eyes. "Mhm. Sure."

"You are!" You laugh, still looking at him. "Do you honestly think you could beat me?" You ask, sounding baffled.

"I already said I could."

You purse your lips, looking over at the track. "Let's test it then." He cocks a brow as he stops cleaning. "Seriously?" You smile at him. "Scared, Keller?" He narrows his eyes. "Never." He turns his head to asses the track again. "Fine. I'll humor you."

You both make your way down the ladder of the outpost and head over to the dirt track.

"Ok. We'll do a mile. Four laps around-"

"I know how many laps a mile is." He interrupts.

You continue, paying no mind to his interruption. "And the first person to finish gets to..." You ponder a suitable prize. "Shower first."

He nods, pleased with the prize. "Sound good?" You ask. "That shower is going to feel so good." You glance at him. "Right. Like you're going to be the one to cash it in." You point out. "I'll count to three; then we'll go."

"1..."

"2..."

"Hey, what's that over there?" You look behind him, your eyes widening. Alex is quick to spin around. "Where?" His voice is plagued with confusion.

"3.." You bolt as you end the countdown. Keller is still at the starting line. He spins around. "God damn it." He grits as he starts to run.

Both of you are fast. Very fast. After the first lap, you were leading, though Keller was hot on your trail.

You had been teasing him about being behind you until the third lap started, and he jets past you. "Fuck." You mutter to yourself, attempting to speed past him.

The fourth and final lap proved to be incredibly challenging. You were both creeping up on the other. If Keller was in front, you were just a little behind. If he was in front, you were on his heels.

When the finish line was in view, you dashed to pass him. You were both neck and neck. Then, without realizing it, you both crossed the line simultaneously.

"You cheated, and we still tied." He remarked, his breath sounding labored. "I did not cheat. You need to learn to pay attention." You counter, also out of breath. He smirked. "Oh, is that right?" You nodded. "Yes. You had your head in clouds." He rolled his eyes you. "Mhm." He replied.

Once you both took a second to recuperate, you remembered the prize. "So, who gets to shower first?" You remind him. He ponders the idea. "Well. I guess since we both won, we both get to shower." Your eyes widen. He lets out a soft chuckle. "Not like that. We can face opposite ways." He continues. "Don't you want a hot shower?" You close your eyes, contemplating, eventually caving. "Fine. But, if you look at me-" He snickered. "Wouldn't dream of it, shortcake." He quipped.

You both went to the shower and you began to strip out of your clothes. "Turn around." You remind him. He obliges and starts undressing himself.

"Close your eyes."

"Then I won't be able to see."

"Why would you want to see me-"

"The shower. I won't be able to see where the shower is."

Your face turns pink. "Right." He cackles at your evident embarrassment.

"I won't look at you. Just go in." You hesitate only momentarily and make your way into the hot, steamy shower. He amends his early sentiment and doesn't look at you as he makes his way in, facing in the opposite direction, your backs to each other.

Although you can try to deny it, Alex Keller is so attractive. You salivate at the thought of his naked body so close to yours. His cock is only mere inches from you.

As he washes his body, you feel the slight graze of his hands on your ass; you slightly moan at the interaction, causing your face to turn red. "Oh my god.." You say, stumbling over your words because you were embarrassed. "I'm sorry..oh my..this is so fucking embarrassing." You attempt to make your way out of the shower, but before you can take one step, Alex grabs your arm, his body now facing yours.

He didn't say a word, nor did you—both of you breathing heavily before he finally broke the silence.

"Can I-" He begins to question before you cut him off quickly.

"Please." You beg.

With that, you two are entangled. His rough hands find their way to the back of your head, his fingers threading through your hair as he roughly kisses you. You maneuver your hands around his neck, bringing him closer to deepen the kiss.

"Fuck." He groans into your mouth as he notices his quickly hardening cock touching your stomach. You gently bring your hand up so it's now gripping him. He grunts at your touch, taking one of his hands from your head and moving it lower so it's cupping your breast. You throw your head back as his finger rubs your sensitive nipple. This incentivizes you to begin pumping his cock, though he is quick to pull your hand off. You give him a confused expression, and he dips his head into the crook of your neck to leave wet, sloppily kisses.

"I'll come too fast." You laugh at his honesty, before you grab his head from your neck, and reconnect your lips with his. You gently pull back for a moment, your lips still hovering over his.

"This doesn't mean anything." You breathlessly say.

"No?" He bends down, whispering against your neck, as his fingers linger down your body, grazing your wet cunt. "Sure. Maybe it doesn't mean you like me, but I know you like my fingers..." He slips two inside you, soliciting a moan from you, causing a cocky grin to spread across his face.

"I like a lot of guys' fingers." You continue, your voice sounding like gravel. "You're not special."

"Do you now?" He moves his fingers up and down your throbbing clit. "But, do they all get you this wet?" He whispers into your ear, referring to your dripping arousal. You shamelessly ground against his fingers. He takes your movements and silence as an answer.

"Didn't think so." He remarks as he hungrily catches your lips with his and pushes his fingers back into you. You whine into his mouth at the contact and instantly thread your fingers back through his hair.

He continues pumping his fingers in and out of your cunt. "So fuckin' wet and tight fer'me." He mutters into your mouth. "Gonna make you come so hard. All over my fingers." He quickened his pace. "You have such a dirty mouth." You breathe out. "You fuckin' love it." He mumbles.

You can feel your peak nearing. "Gonna.." He quickly cuts you off. "When you come, say my name."

"Kel..-" You begin. "Not fucking Keller. My name." He grits.

"Alex." You loudly moan as you come, your legs shaking and your heart racing.

He holds you as your orgasm subsides, and then he sets you down gently.

"Would you wash my hair?" He asks earnestly.

"No. I'm not touching you." You say as you regain your breath.

"I just gave you an orgasm with my fingers, and you won't wash my hair?" He remarked. "Might I add, you we trynna give me a hand job earlier?"

"Fuck off." You say, as a small smile forms on your lips.

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taglist: @callsign-artemis @yuenity @fivenightsatnattys @minihotdog @theloneshadow24

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stormblessed95 · 2 years

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Bts looked so good with their long hair and nice suits on this last award show! I'm just really confused about what award show it was lol, how many do they have in South Korea? Because I've seen some fancams and video taken from shows that looked wildly different, with complex performances and dances, while this one seemed to me a little bit more tame.

I also remember seeing videos about the first extensive win of BTS that surprised many. Was it this one? Is this the most important award show in SK?

I'm just a bit curious, thank you for answering! :)

That was The Fact Award show. Officially abbreviated as TMA, often also called FMA. This award show was established I think, correct me if needed, in 2019. So it's *newer.* And it's awards are mostly fan voted and organized by the Fan N Star app where fans can vote for artists in whatever categories they are nominated for each year. BTS has attended and won each year. ARMYs were super happy about BTS winning so much at these awards this year since TMA is fan voted, it showed them that even with their solo ventures, hiatus and breaks, all their announcements they were so worried about, that ARMY is still there backing them, no matter what. But Jikook at TMA over the years and their performances

2019

Speech and their encore of Idol

youtube

2020

Award show delayed originally due to covid and missing yoongi due to his shoulder surgery. They performed Dynamite and Life Goes On.

dailymotion

And their encore stage of Dynamite in 2020

youtube

2021

They performed Boy With Luv, Butter and PTD in 2021, performance here

youtube

And encore of Butter

youtube

And most recently, 2022

They performed Yet To Come and For Youth

youtube

And Maknae Line's "so show me" encore (jimin walked off the camera view but he was singing too lmao)

youtube

So yes, in general, they do tend to have a more laid back type of just having fun with it and armys performances and encore stages at this award show. As for the award show you mentioned where they won big for the first time. That I think you are referring to is from 2015 where they won first place for the first time with I Need U on KBS Music Bank

youtube

And because it should be included. Their lipstick encore performance after I Need U's second win on M Countdown

youtube

Everyone was so emotional!

Hope that this helps a little bit!

#jikook #kookmin #jikook tma #jikook fma #jikook award shows #jikook in 2019 #jikook in 2020 #jikook in 2021 #jikook in 2022 #jikook in 2015

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starlostseungmin · 1 year

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okay listen, new years eve, the clock is about to hit midnight, skz x moots and what song is playing in the background as they share the first kiss of the year 🎤

to be really honest anon, it took me a decade to find these songs jsjsks i realized that i don't really listen to love songs that much so here's all i can do! thank you for coming by btw 🫶🏻

@cosmic-railwayxo x hyunjin

— this actually perfect if both of them decided to go on a date together at midnight, welcoming the new year just the two of them on a cliff with hyunjin's car parked beside them. the view from the cliff where you could see the city lights felt so peaceful and away from all the noises, but they are expecting to hear the blasts of fireworks in any minute now and when the clock strikes midnight, that's when the kiss. who knows right? they are so in love with each other.

@hyunverse x han

— same with deni and hyunjin, rin and han decided to celebrate the new year together so they're on a vacation, more like honeymoon. two of them stayed in their hotel room waiting for the fireworks display that can be seen as a whole from their full length windows. they shared a kiss after the countdown and the song finally reached the last chorus.

@asters-abditory x jeongin

— you know there's something about this song that suits the new year vibes (this will give spoilers from my upcoming innie fic) two of them celebrated new year in the camp, but they decided to wait until midnight. aster and jeongin were seen on the top of the waterfalls and jumped. when they reached the river below and rose up, they shared a kiss as the fireworks blasted by their camping mates.

@seungly x seungmin

— now seungmin is the sentimental, yet romantic one. sunny and seungmin were standing at the rooftop together after they wanted some time of peace despite the louds noises from hyunjin's new year's eve party in his house. seungmin would fix her hair as he stared on her eyes, smiling before leaning for a kiss with the fireworks blasting up in the sky.

@comet-falls x minho

— this is like confessing their love for each other which they never really get to show. minho's a tsundere and he barely say things to honey of how he loves her so much but he wanted to make the new year's eve as an opportunity to make her feel how much he loves her. “you are the best thing that’s ever been mine.” he said as they kissed.

@l3visbby x changbin

— can u imagine how changbin would take ola's hands and take her to a dance? like changbin would definitely do this especially when he song feels like sentimental and makes the mood for having a romantic moment. and after twirling her around, changbin pulls her closer to his body and leaned forward for a kiss with the clock strikes midnight and everyone cheered for the new year.

@zoe8stay x chan

— this song is actually perfect for a wedding but let's just say that zoe and chan has been married for like a few months and they decided to spend new year's eve together on a beach resort. they would walk by the shore hand in hand. when they saw people already preparing to light up the fireworks, they stood together with chan's arm around her waist. the clock strikes midnight as they looked at each other and kiss.

@lix-ables x felix

— this is one of my favorite songs from this artist and i feel like this would suit kriss and felix. they have been pining all over the place and that's when felix decided to take the opportunity to confess. just like minho and honey but this time, they'll turn into lovers after being friends for such a long time. felix would say how hard it was to confess to kriss because he didn't want to risk their friendship but then kriss felt the same. felix promised and eternity with her using this song as the fireworks roared, sharing a kiss.

#📮 — ( keisy’s mails. )#✉️ — ( keisy replies. )#👤 — ( dear anons. )

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bluev0id · 4 months

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Hello. Hope you’re doing well.

Heres your exchange : How will I spend this new years eve ?

New Year's Eve have the potential for fresh and novel encounters on this special night. It suggests an openness to new feelings and artistic expressions that may unfold as you welcome the upcoming year.

However, you go through self-imposed limitations or hesitations. As the clock ticks towards midnight, there might be a tendency to feel bound by uncertainties or fears that hinder the full embrace of the celebratory spirit. Your guides encourages a conscious effort to break free from these mental constraints, allowing oneself to fully immerse in the transformative energy of the New Year. You could be suffering from anxiety or worrying about something in particular.

The archetype of the queen of pentacles advises adopting a practical and earthy approach to the festivities. Whether it involves spending quality time with family and friends or focusing on self-care, the Queen of Pentacles underscores the importance of creating a stable and nurturing environment for oneself and those close to you. Your New Year's Eve might unfold with a blend of emotional exploration, overcoming self-imposed limitations, and embracing a nurturing atmosphere. Begin the night with an open heart, ready to experience the novel and creative aspects of the Page of Cups. As the evening progresses, confront any mental barriers represented by the 8 of Swords, allowing the Queen of Pentacles to guide you towards a balanced and nurturing celebration.

Messages :

- start the night by engaging in activities that fuel your creative side, such as journaling, art, or even dancing. Your guides are encouraging a sense of emotional freedom and expression. As the countdown to midnight approaches, take a moment for introspection, acknowledging and releasing any fears or doubts that you may have.

- consider creating a warm and welcoming environment for your New Year's Eve celebration. This might involve preparing nourishing meals, surrounding yourself with loved ones, or even engaging in a calming self-care routine.

My question is : what is BK feelings towards me ? ( black hair, big eyes and beanie) - A ⭐️

Omg thank u for the long reading!!

I'm gonna be honest with you, I had quite a hard time connecting to this person. I hope you can manage to get something useful and reliable out of this reading

I'm getting quite a lot of different energies here uhhh for starters there's definitely a sense of shakiness and something about this connection doesn't feel "all the way there". I'm gonna go a bit of a longer route here for this to make sense. Because of these fluctuations, I kinda took a peek into how does BK feel about themselves and with the Mountain card describing this person and then getting the Strength and Chariot reversed, it's coming to me that they have certain problems in their life rn that they're having a hard time figuring out. They seem like person issues, but I do think they're affecting your person's view on others as well.

So when it comes to you, even tho with the ace of pentacles and ace of cups, there's a feeling of you being something positive, something they're craving in their life and are interested, can see a benefit of you, tho perhaps they feel it's hard for them to connect to other people rn. They're trying to kinda shake off those feelings and be happy and notice the positive energy you bring and how good the prospect of you looks to them but at the same time, inside they're fighting negativity and cynicism. They desire to have you around, and think their life would be better if you were in it. So generally it's all positive and good except those outside forces.

If youre wonfering how they see you then hmm to them you're also juggling many things in life and perhaps aren't having the easiest time. Seems like you're working towards something or at least possess a skill of long term dedication even if it's not career related. So they think that you know what you need or once you think something is right, it could be hard influencing you to think otherwise. Although I get a bit of a hint that currently they might think that your luck has turned around. Maybe you managed to reach a particular goal or achieve and opportunity or switch up your life. They see this as you succeeding and things going your way. It's quite a realistic way to see someone I guess

#free tarot reading #tarot exchange #free readings #divination #reading exchange #tarot game

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hopeonmyphone · 1 year

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JHope Talks About His Enlistment Schedule And What He Wants To Do Before Saying Goodbye To ARMYs

Today, JHope took first place on 'M Countdown' for his new track "On The Street". At the same time, this is also his second 1st place achievement for two consecutive weeks. Therefore, JHope appeared on Weverse Live to directly express his gratitude to his fans.

He was very happy when he saw the congratulations from the fans. Then, JHope also expressed his heart for what ARMYs did for him and listened to "On The Street". JHope said that: "I came for a little bit.. on hearing the good news" and "It's (JHope winning #1 twice) really because of you guys.. I want to give you my greetings of thanks".

JHope then talked about his life these days as he wraps up his busy promotion schedule. Like a few other members of the group, j-hope has spent this time enjoying his life without too many thoughts and worries.

He then cautiously mentioned his enlistment. Of course, JHope also brought up the fact that after he finished promoting "On The Street" he was also preparing for his military service and ARMYs should know about this too.

He slowly mentioned it but didn't forget to reassure ARMYs that he won't be leaving anytime soon. JHope said, "I came to give you my greetings of thanks and let you know a little bit that my official schedules are almost over…There's so much I've recorded/filmed. I can't tell you in too much detail but the date (to enlist) is out but I wonder isn't it the stage where I need to start getting ready eventually."

Besides, JHope also let us know that he will do something for ARMYs before he has to enlist. It includes "bald JHope" and "hug ARMYs". He mentioned: ""Will we see bald JHope?" I guess you'll see bald JHope when I go" and "Hug ARMY before you go to the army (military)" I'll do that, I'll hug ARMY before I go to army",…

Although he was mentally prepared for his enlistment, it seems that he also has a lot of worries since this is his first time doing this.JHope expressed his goal in taking care of himself during his enlistment.

He confessed, "Since my stamina is so low, I wonder if I should take care of myself before enlisting. Now I'm 30, once I come back from the military, I'll be over 30.. In general, my goal is to be healthy…I've felt that more than anything, it's important to be healthy…If I'm healthy, I'll be able to show you many/various things"

Meanwhile, at the end of last month, JHope completed the application to cancel the enlistment postponement and started the process of performing military service. Talking about his sudden decision to enlist, JHope ever expressed, "I think I've been thinking about this since last year. After Jin-hyung went in, I wondered when I should do it too. When thinking about it, I decided that the sooner I go in, the sooner I can return and show you something good."

For ARMYs, JHope's enlistment is inevitable. Therefore, they support his decision to enlist and always hope that he will return healthy:

Oh god don't let it be the last

Hope u stay healthy & happy always hobi

My hardworking baby :(((

I can't wait to see all that he created for us but the idea we will be without him :( hearing his voice rn is everything

we wish you to be healthy not only today but everyday. we'll see each other in your future concerts right? we'll be waiting. we are just here

We'll wait for u bbe take care of yourself

Hello bigh̾i̾t ̾ music is coming for us again

the view from the rooftop looks pretty rn.

DON'T TAKE OUR COLOR AWAY

im gonna close my eyes and pretend i didnt see that

My world is going to be be dark soon…. My sunshine will eclipse with my moon soon

I'm not ready to receive that "Hello. This is Bigh̾i̾t ̾ Music" announcement again. I don't even think I'll ever be ready

Yes health is very imp., eat well n stay healthy and comeback to us soon

yes baby you health is the top most priority, take care my love

Well internationally YOU'RE STILL 29 so…… I'M CONSIDERING YOU 29. And when you come back being over 30. The love is gonna grow the more you grow old no matter what.

stay healthy always hobi. We will wait for you

Stay healthy & safe there when you go soon. I love you so much Hobi

Source: kpoptop

#jung hoseok #hoseok #jhope #정호석 #호석 #제이홉 #방탄소년단제이홉 #방탄소년단 #jhope news #BTS

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hrina · 4 years

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In The Ring, Pt. I - Jab

PAIRING: Harry x Reader RATING: M WORD COUNT: 4k REQUESTED: not exactly lol

hey everyone! this is PART 1 of the boxer!harry AU i’ve been working on. i was so inspired by this concept that i wrote it all in one day lol. if u enjoy reading it, reblogs and feedback are very much appreciated! it really helps in terms of motivation and just knowing how my readers feel about this story in general. so yeah, that would really make my month!

warning: parts of this fic will contain mentions of blood, violence, mild stalking, and sexual content. if any of that makes you uncomfortable, please take care of yourself and keep scrolling <3

okay, now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, go stupid go dumb! my masterlist and my inbox are both linked in my bio, for anyone who would like to check out my other fics or who feels like chatting. can’t wait to hear your thoughts 💘💘💘

~*~

January 7, 2021

All of Harry’s teeth are still intact.

For now, at least.

He knows that mouthguards exist—there’s one tucked between his lips every single time he enters the ring. But even then…sometimes punches go awry. Sometimes your opponent dodges at the last second. Sometimes people end up with a mouthful of leather and a few loose incisors. He always keeps one fist near his chin, shielding the lower half of his face from any blows that come his way.

Speaking of blows coming his way…

He ducks away from the straight jab that the man throws—The Wall, they call him. Harry had rolled his eyes when the nickname boomed across the room, soon lost in the roar of the crowd.

He’s never been one for flashy introductions. He prefers to let his technique speak for itself. His brand is his name. Harry Styles. Simple, concise, and so utterly deceiving. He loves watching the smile melt from his opponent’s face, basks in the moment when they realise that he’s tougher than his name suggests.

The Wall jabs again, and Harry successfully dodges the punch. He doesn’t register the other fist hooking around, however, until the blunt front of the man’s glove makes contact with the side of his head. Usually, a blow like that wouldn’t even faze him. But the sheer force behind the hit knocks him off-balance, stumbling to the side as he loses his footing and inhaling sharply when his shoulder collides with the ground.

The yells from the crowd are deafening. Harry coughs, trying to guide air back into his lungs. When he blinks, black spots dance across his vision. Subconsciously, his eyes trace a path upward, past the floor, past his opponent’s feet, past the ropes encompassing the ring. Higher and higher, still, past jeering faces and sloshing beer bottles and grungy eye makeup. All the way to the top of the bleachers, to the exit—to you.

That’s been your unofficial spot for the past two years. Once you turned twenty, your father finally gave in, allowing you to attend Harry’s matches in exchange for the cessation of your endless badgering. You always stand near the door, observing the commotion with thoughtful eyes and puckered lips. Despite himself, Harry has started to think of you as his lucky charm. It’s dangerous—he always swore that he wouldn’t be one of those overly-superstitious athletes—but he can’t help it. He just seems to perform better when you’re around.

Through the rocky field of his vision, he can see just how wide your eyes have grown. There’s an unmistakable look of concern on your face as you watch the fight unfold. Your hand finds its way to the base of your throat, playing nervously with the rose-gold pendant resting there. You crane your neck to get a better view of the ring, your pupils flitting back and forth between Harry and the frighteningly large man looming over him.

A warm rush of adrenaline floods Harry’s veins. The saliva that has gathered in his mouth tastes stale on his tongue. He spits it out as he staggers to his feet. The crowd grows louder, somehow.

The Wall’s smile shrinks as Harry assumes his previous position; his hands orient themselves in front of his face. His opponent gnashes his teeth, seemingly annoyed with the fact that the match has not ended. Harry shakes off the dizziness clouding his brain, and then he’s lunging forward with a newfound sense of determination. He throws punch after punch, sidestepping The Wall’s returning attempts. All he can think about is the fact that you’re up there, watching, waiting, worrying. He never wants to see you like that again.

You’re his goddamn lucky charm.

His victory comes in the form of an uppercut followed immediately by a nasty right hook. The Wall—this big, towering man with bulging biceps and rippling pectorals—crumples to the ground. Harry waits, his chest heaving with exertion as the countdown begins. He’s prepared to watch his opponent rise again, to shift back into a fighting stance and start over. But as the seconds trickle by and The Wall remains motionless on the ground, he soon finds the tension in his body seeping out into the hot, sticky air.

His shoulders sag in relief as a single promising word echoes through the grimy arena.

“Knockout!”

~*~

The crowd thins out considerably in the ten minutes following the termination of the match. Harry stumbles out of the ring, sliding through the ropes and pulling his mouthguard from between his lips. Your father is waiting for him with a smile on his face, holding out an arm and helping him jump down from the raised platform.

“Well done, H,” he says, patting his back proudly.

Harry pants and nods. Your father holds out a reusable water bottle for him to take—he accepts it graciously and gulps down the cold liquid with fat, greedy slurps. Once he pulls the nozzle away from his mouth, he runs the back of his hand over his face to catch any stray droplets that have collected on his chin.

“Thanks, Coach.”

“You took a pretty hard fall, there,” your father says, guiding him to sit down on a bench propped up against the wall. “Medic’s in the back. He’s checking out Aaron right now, but you’re next.” He taps his index finger against Harry’s temple. “We’ve got to make sure everything’s alright up there.”

Harry sucks in a deep breath, his eyebrows knitting together in confusion. “Who the fuck is Aaron?”

“Oh.” Your father laughs. “Aaron. The Wall. Whatever you want to call him.”

Harry frowns. “Don’t like that. Makes him sound like a dick.”

A new voice enters the conversation.

“That’s because he is.”

Harry’s head snaps to the side, and there you are.

You look nice, as usual. There’s something about you that he can never seem to properly describe. You always look so…clean. If he tried to vocalize his thoughts, he’s sure that you would look at him like he was crazy.

But in his head, it makes sense. You take care of yourself. Your nails are spotless, your hair smells good, and he knows that you must dab spritzes of perfume onto your pulse points before you leave the house, because a fresh scent follows you wherever you go. Even now, as you stand a few feet away with your hands on your hips, he catches it on a deep inhale. Not flowery, not fruity, just…clean. Refreshing. Light. Breezy.

Your father snaps him out of his reverie, and he realises that he should probably stop listing every word in the thesaurus.

“How do you know?” Your father’s inquiry is curious. He shoots you a puzzled look, his mouth curling down into a soft scowl.

You roll your eyes. “Called me ‘sweet thing’ before the match started and asked me if I was the prize,” you say, sticking your tongue out in disdain. “I told him to go fuck himself.”

Harry’s lips twitch.

Your father chuckles. “That’s my girl.”

You laugh quietly, shaking your head. “What time are we leaving?” you ask. The question is directed at your father, who is fiddling with the drawstrings hanging from his sweater. “I was hoping to study a bit more before bed.”

“Soon, gioia,” your father says. “As soon as Harry gets checked out, we’ll be on our way.”

You nod, and—for what feels like the first time since you cut into the interaction—you glance down at Harry. “Hi,” you say softly, shooting him a small, friendly smile.

He meets your gaze for only a moment. Everything about you is so gentle. Your irises are like melted pots of honey, regarding him with such warmth he feels like he’ll never be cold again. “Hi.”

“Congratulations on your win,” you murmur. Harry wants to bottle your voice and save it as a keepsake. “You made a great comeback.”

Because of you, he wants to say, but he bites his tongue. “Thank you,” he offers up instead, the words scraping against the roof of his mouth and tumbling unceremoniously into the air between you.

A moment of silence ensues as you wait for him to say something—anything—else. But he’s done. You nod once before turning back to your father, who is tweaking the settings of the watch wrapped around his wrist.

“Do you know where the washrooms are?” you ask. You toy absentmindedly with the necklace hanging from your throat. “I need to pee.”

“You can use the one in the women’s locker room,” your father tells you, throwing a thumb over his shoulder. “Around the corner, first door on the left.”

“Thanks,” you say, slipping by and pressing a quick peck to his cheek. “I’ll be right back.”

He just nods in agreement, still too preoccupied with his watch.

Harry, on the other hand, can’t keep his eyes off of you as you walk away. He takes note of the way that you tuck your hair behind your ear, how you shoulder the strap of your purse to keep it from slipping down your arm, how you walk with a purpose despite being so moderate and kind. His gaze falls momentarily to the sway of your hips, the enticing nature of your waist. He stares for a long moment before tearing away, clearing his throat and blinking a few times in quick succession.

“Proud of you, H,” your father pipes up, tapping the face of his watch twice before dropping his arm with a sigh. “You did well out there.”

“Thanks,” Harry mutters. A spark of guilt flares up in his chest when he realises that he had been blatantly ogling you with your father standing only a few feet off to the side. He silently berates himself, shaking his head free of any alluring thoughts.

Your father’s phone chirps with the arrival of a new notification. He fishes the device out of his pocket and glances down at the screen.

“Let’s go,” he tells Harry, jerking his head to the right. “Medic’s ready for you, now.”

January 13, 2021

“C’mon, H, be smart with it! Watch how he angles himself!”

And Harry’s trying, really, but Arthur—or Artie, as your father likes to call him—is a hunkering titan of a man. He used to be your father’s star athlete before retiring, and now…now he’s working in finance, or something akin to that. Harry isn’t one hundred percent sure; he usually zones out when people begin to discuss the stock market.

Artie throws a right hook, but Harry sees it coming and blocks it with ease. They move in a circle, focussed only on each other while other individuals outside of the ring totter around.

Harry prefers to train on weekdays during the afternoon, because that’s when the gym isn’t as packed. Right now, only a handful of other people are working out, lifting weights or doing cardio exercises. Harry and Artie are here so often that nobody even blinks an eye anymore. And your father…well, he runs the place. Of course he would be here.

The sparring continues. When Harry refuses to make the first move, Artie sticks one glove out, beckoning him forward. “Come here, pretty boy.”

“Don’t make me pull your hair,” Harry grits, because Artie’s ponytail is swinging temptingly from beneath his headgear.

The other man laughs good-naturedly before lunging. Harry blocks his uppercut and delivers a strong, pointed jab right to the middle of his chest. Artie stumbles backward, inhaling sharply as the breath is knocked from his lungs. Harry bites back a smile.

“Nice, H!” your father calls.

“Thanks, Coach,” he mutters.

The front door of the gym opens, accompanied by the soft tinkling of a bell to announce the new arrival. Harry’s attention is reflexively drawn toward the direction of the sound, and his heartbeat stutters beneath his ribs.

You’re there, with your hair tied back in a low bun and silver hoops hanging from your ears. You’re holding a tray of coffee in your left hand, and there’s a warm smile on your face. You wave excitedly as you greet Portia, the middle-aged woman sitting behind the front desk. The two of you chat as you shrug off your jacket and tug the sleeves of your sweater over your hands.

Your mouth moves languidly. Though Harry is too far to hear your voice, he has a pretty good idea of what you’re saying. Your eyes widen and you shiver dramatically, shaking your head.

It’s cold!

A heavy fist makes contact with the side of his jaw, and he falls to the ground.

Your father’s loud exclamation pulls your attention away from Portia and toward the ring on the opposite end of the room. Harry groans lowly as he pushes himself to his knees, tilting his head from side to side and cracking his neck. When he turns to face your father, he finds him frowning through the gaps between the ropes.

“What the hell was that?” he asks, shooting Harry a disappointed look.

“Sorry,” Harry mumbles, climbing to his feet with a grunt. “Got distracted.”

He chances a glance back at you, and his shoulders grow tense when he realises that you’re making your way over to the ring, the tray of coffee held between your hands like a peace offering.

“Hello, boys,” you singsong. “I brought drinks.”

“Thanks, sweetheart,” your father says as you hand him his designated cup. He leans forward, pressing a quick kiss to your hair. You hum happily in response.

“Jason!” you call out as Artie approaches the side of the ring. “I got your lemonade.”

“Thanks, little girl,” Artie hums, accepting his drink graciously and taking a long sip from the straw. “And for the hundredth time, stop calling me ‘Jason’.”

“Stop calling me ‘little girl’,” you shoot back, laughing deviously. “I can’t help it if you look like him, okay? You’re even the same age, too.” You cock one eyebrow. “Should I start calling you ‘Aquaman’ instead?”

“God, no.” Artie shakes his head vehemently. “Let’s stick to Jason. ’Least that’s a real name.”

You giggle as he ambles away. Your eyes shift over to Harry—who has kept silent the entire time—and your lips curl up into a kind smile. “Hi, Harry.”

“Hi.” His voice is guttural.

“Last, but not least,” you murmur, plucking his drink from the tray and holding it up for him to take. “One black coffee, right?”

“Right,” he confirms with a curt nod. He tugs his bulky gloves off, dropping them to the floor and reaching out to accept the cup. A strong spark pricks at his hand when his fingers brush against yours. Your responding gasp is soft, barely-noticeable—if he weren’t so painfully aware of everything you do, he would have missed it completely.

“Thank you,” he says, guiding the coffee to his mouth and taking a small sip.

“No problem.” You smile up at him again, and God, that fucking smile. He wants it tattooed onto the backs of his eyelids. A wave of heat blooms in his chest and creeps up his neck, but thankfully, the pink flush blends in with his sweat-slicked, already-rosy skin.

“How was class, sweetheart?” your father asks, tilting his head to the side.

“It was good.” You shrug, tossing a thumb over your shoulder. “I’m going to head home now, though—I have a proposal due in a few days and I really need to get started.”

“Go, go,” your father concedes. You bid him goodbye before standing on your tiptoes and craning your neck to catch sight of Artie, who is quite evidently enjoying his lemonade.

“Bye, Jason!”

“Bye, little girl!”

You laugh. Your gaze lands on Harry again, eyes sparkling and features resolutely tender. “Bye, Harry.”

He swallows down the hard lump in his throat. “Bye.”

January 16, 2021

Harry’s workout playlist features a lot of Ariana Grande.

He just thinks that she’s good, okay?

But he knows that Artie and your father would never let him hear the end of it, so he keeps that information private. During practice, he’ll endure whatever shitty tunes Artie picks from his own library, and he won’t say a word. He’s not in the ring to dance, anyway. He’s there to make money—albeit illegally—because quite frankly, he hasn’t discovered an aptitude for anything else.

It’s late—the gym is technically closed. But the great thing about having the owner for a coach is the fact that Harry was given another key to add to his collection. Your father doesn’t care, as long as he locks up after he’s done. Harry has spent more time here than at his own home, he imagines. It’s nice when it’s quiet—it gives him plenty of time to think.

The back of his t-shirt is soaked through with sweat. He’s gazing at the ceiling as he lifts the heavy weights up and down over his torso. A bubbly song is playing on his phone, keeping his energy high.

So what if he listens to Ariana Grande? She makes great music.

The distinctive sound of footsteps reaches his ears. He pauses, setting the weightlifting bar back onto its rack and sitting up quickly. The noise is coming from the stairs that lead down to the swimming pool in the basement. Harry stands, and though his muscles are already screaming from previous exertion, he readies himself for the worst.

You appear at the top of the flight, your slippers smacking against each step loudly. You’re ruffling a towel against your wet hair, your head angled to the side as you squeeze out any excess water. Upon catching sight of Harry, you freeze in your tracks.

“Oh. Harry. Hi.”

“Hi,” he says slowly. “I…didn’t know you were here.”

“I didn’t know you were here,” you reply wryly, a small smirk making its way onto your lips.

Harry scratches sheepishly at the back of his neck. “Yeah. Er…I was just working out.”

You nod, your expression coy. “I can see that.”

An awkward silence hangs in the air. Harry clears his throat, rubbing his jaw with his fingers because what else is he supposed to do? “Were you—did you go for a swim?”

“Yeah,” you say. Your shoulders deflate, like you’re almost grateful that he’s contributed more to the conversation. “Spent half the time doing laps, and the other half on my phone.” Your lips quirk up with the feeble joke.

Harry chuckles weakly. “That’s just how it is, sometimes.”

Your eyes flutter shut for only a moment. “Yeah.”

More silence. Harry chews nervously on his bottom lip. Why the fuck can’t he speak?

The song playing from his phone changes. Your eyes narrow ever-so-slightly when a few upbeat notes trickle into the air, followed immediately by the smooth crooning of a woman’s voice. “Is this…,” you hesitate, and he can see how you’re fighting a smile, “…Carly Rae Jepsen?”

“Uh,” he says dumbly, uncertain of how to proceed. Sure enough, I Really Like You by Carly Rae Jepsen is filtering through the taut atmosphere, painfully loud now that the two of you are truly paying attention to it.

A high-pitched laugh falls from your mouth, and your shoulders shake with the force of your amusement. Harry, unable to help himself, begins to chuckle along with you. Heat blooms across his cheeks, but he’s not as embarrassed as he thought he’d be. Your giggles aren’t derisive, he realises.

He’s nearly overcome with the urge to take you in his arms, then, but he resists.

“Late night, watching the television…,” you sing quietly, and then you’re dissolving into merriment all over again.

Once your joint laughter subsides, you shoot him a bright grin. Harry tries his best to return it, though he doesn’t think that he mirrors your smile to its full extent. You sigh in delight, shouldering the strap of your bag and tossing your towel over your forearm.

“That honestly made my night,” you tell him, utterly sincere.

His heart somersaults in his chest. “’M glad.”

“Well,” you say, shrugging gently, “I should probably go.”

“Yeah.” His response is hollow. He lifts his hand in a half-hearted wave. “Have a good night.”

“You too.”

He lies back down with a grunt as you make your way toward the exit. His fingers wrap around the weightlifting bar, about to pull it off of its resting place, when your voice suddenly rings out again.

“Harry?”

“Yeah?” He sits up too quickly, nearly catching his forehead against the metal of the bar. When he turns around to face you, he finds you doubling back, approaching him and nibbling apprehensively on your bottom lip.

“I actually—,” you pause, like you’re unsure of how to continue, “I was wondering if I could ask you something.”

“Sure,” he says, rubbing his hands over the black shorts covering his thighs. “Go ahead.”

“It might be kind of weird,” you warn. “Don’t laugh at me.”

He shakes his head, blinking solemnly. “I won’t.”

“Would you—,” you begin, and your fingers come up to play with the pendant resting at the base of your throat, “—teach me how to box?”

“I—,” Harry recoils slightly, taken aback by your question. “What?”

“Would you teach me how to box?” you repeat, though your voice is significantly smaller. “I want to learn how to defend myself.”

“Against what?” he asks, his brows knitting together in concern. “Is everything alright?”

“Everything’s fine.” You wave away his worries with an inattentive flick of your hand. Harry’s eyes narrow as he studies your face. You refuse to meet his gaze.

You’re lying, he realises, straight through your pretty teeth. But it would be impolite of him to pry, wouldn’t it? And this is the first time that the two of you have ever been really, truly alone; he doesn’t want to fuck it up.

“Okay,” he says slowly, even though he doesn’t believe your guarantee.

He pulls at the hem of his t-shirt, tugging it up and wiping his face with the fabric. When he fixes his gaze on you once more, he thinks he catches your eyes drifting across his torso. Cocking one eyebrow curiously, he climbs to his feet.

“What do you want to learn?” he asks, reaching for his phone and pausing the music streaming from the device.

“Anything,” you say breathlessly. “Everything.”

His lips twitch.

“I—,” he scratches at his nose with two fingers, “—I don’t really have a set schedule, you know, between practice and actual matches.”

“I know.” You nod understandingly.

“And I know you have school,” he continues, tilting his head to the side. “Are you sure you want to do this?”

“Positive,” you tell him. There’s something strong burning in your eyes; he can’t quite figure out what it is. “I want to train. Just…don’t tell my dad, okay?”

“Okay,” he repeats. He swallows heavily, offering his phone to you. “Put your number in, yeah? I’ll text you on the nights I’m free, and if you’re not too busy, we can meet up here.”

“Alright,” you concede softly. You take the device from him, and he pretends not to notice just how badly your hands are shaking. Your nails tap quietly against the screen, and before you know it, you’re passing the phone back to him with your information saved under a new contact.

“Alright,” Harry echoes.

The two of you stare at each other for a long, silent moment. The spell is broken, however, when you finally take a step back, clearing your throat and tucking a strand of damp hair behind your ear.

“I should go,” you say. “For real, this time.”

“For real.” Harry nods.

“You’ll lock up, right?” you ask, retreating toward the exit.

“Yup,” he says, popping the last letter instinctively. At that, you smile, your mouth curling up into a soft, inviting crescent.

“Okay,” you murmur, placing one hand on the door. “Goodnight, Harry.”

He watches you go with forlorn eyes and empty lungs. “Goodnight.”

~*~

PART II: Cross

PART III: Hook

PART IV: Uppercut

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mypunkpansexualtwin · 3 years

Text

Surprise, surprise! A third timely post for pegoryu week! I'll definitely be passing the fuck out after this.

As per usual, bulk under the cut, link in the notes, and all my love to those who recommend it to their friends!

Ryuji was running, feet pounding against the concrete hard enough to rattle his teeth, cold air sharp against his face, lungs burning for a break as the shout echoed off the nearby buildings.

“GET YOUR ASS BACK HERE YOU DAMN BRAT!”

His old man was mad at him again, and maybe he had it coming this time, yelling at him the way he had when he overheard the grownups talking. But this was supposed to be a nice vacation for New Year’s with his grandparents in the country. His father said he’d taken the week off for family, and promised him he was gonna be better when the new year started. Turned out that was a load of crap; he didn’t take the time off, he’d been suspended for a week for turning up drunk on the job. Drunk and pissed off, just like he was now, not ten minutes after the first New Year’s countdown Ryuji had ever been allowed to stay up for. Bastard was never gonna change.

“I HATE YOU, YOU RUIN EVERYTHING!” Ryuji screamed back as tears blurred his vision. “GET AWAY FROM ME!” He had no idea which way he was going, half blind from crying and unfamiliar with his surroundings. Ignoring the string of profanity being bellowed behind him, he turned off the path and into the darker, wilder area behind the shrine. Why weren’t any of the adults nearby stopping his father? Why wasn’t anyone helping? Crunching footsteps were drawing closer with each step and he could feel another sob trying to bubble up out of his throat. The old bastard was too close and he could already feel the bruises he was gonna have when a hand caught him by the back of the shirt and hauled him back--

--into a nearby shrub. Panic was still too loud in his brain and he thrashed in his assailant’s grip before realizing that the hands holding him were too small, too soft, too gentle--

“Shhh,” A small voice soothed in his ear, soft enough he almost didn’t hear it over his father stomping through the undergrowth nearby. Part of Ryuji was too wound up, wanted to bite the hand over his mouth and keep running, but the rest of him recognized that’d just give away his hiding spot and get both of them caught. Instead he wrapped a hand around their wrist and felt them pull him closer. In spite of his old man being within arm’s reach and out for blood worse than he’d seen in a long time, Ryuji relaxed. Just a little.

After a few moments, his father muttered darkly under his breath and started kicking at some of the bushes around him. Ryuji gripped the wrist in his hand a little tighter as his father’s foot brushed their hiding spot. His mystery rescuer let go of his jacket to hold his free hand and squeeze it reassuringly. Seconds stretched on for ages as his old man got closer and closer, and Ryuji’s heart hammered in his chest like it was trying to break out and escape. Finally, another voice called out, pulling his old man’s attention away from them. One of his aunts had appeared long enough to drag her drunken brother away before he could embarrass the family any further.

A few seconds after they disappeared from view, Ryuji untangled himself and lurched out of his hiding spot. He dusted himself off after sprawling out clumsily in the dirt, then checked himself over; kinda dusty, a few scratches on his face from the whippy little branches he’d run though, and… Crap.

“Aww man, I lost one of my mittens. I only just got those for Christmas,” he grumbled.

“We can look for it on the way back to the shrine.” His mystery rescuer had apparently just clambered out of their hiding spot too. Ryuji was ready to wave them off and tell them to not worry about it, but when he finally got a good look at them it was like every word he’d ever learned went on their own vacation.

“Whoa… Are you an angel or somethin’?” He blurted instead. This kid definitely looked like an angel, with a pretty round face almost as soft as the wild black curls around it and grey eyes that looked like nighttime--stars and all under the moonlight--that were almost too big for their face. Way too pretty to be a boy, especially with eyelashes like flower petals and a voice as soft and sweet as a music box. Yeah, probably an angel, definitely a girl. Only seven years old and Ryuji had already found his soulmate. Hiding in a shrub. Wearing a Buchimaru hat.

Mystery girl blushed and giggled behind a matching Buchimaru glove. “No, I’m just Akira. Akira Kurusu, first grade. What does your mitten look like?” Huh, never met a girl named Akira.

“Uh, like this? It’s a yellow Featherman one.” He held up the hand that still had a mitten on, then awkwardly thrust it out for a handshake. “A-and I’m Ryuji Sakamoto, also in first grade! Nice to meetcha, Kicchan!” Akira took the handshake with a small, shy smile, blushing bright enough that she almost matched the red jacket she was wrapped up in.

“Um. Nice to meet you too, Ryuji.” She thought for a moment, then moved around to his side and took his other hand in both of hers, warm even through the gloves. It was his turn to blush. “Here, so your hand doesn’t get cold while we look for your mitten.” Akira pulled him along and he needed a minute to remember how to walk so he didn’t fall over. She seemed to have things handled guiding them back out.

“You came from this way, right?” She looked back and tipped her head towards a hole through the undergrowth where his father had crashed through. Ryuji nodded and she pulled him along a little more insistently, scanning the path for any flash of yellow.

“Thanks for savin’ me, by the way. Kinda thought I was doomed back there.” Ryuji scratched the back of his neck. Kicchan shrugged but didn’t pause their trek or her search for his mitten.

“You needed help. I had a hiding spot. Figured I could share,” she explained like it was the most obvious thing in the world. Like every adult he’d run past hadn’t ignored him.

Ryuji nodded anyways. It was them who got it wrong, not Akira. “Right. Why were you hidin’ anyways?” Something in his stomach twisted at the thought of her running away from a dad as shitty as his. His fingers tightened around her hand just a little; he was gonna protect her twice as hard if that was the case.

Kicchan picked up a flash of yellow sticking out from under a pile of dead leaves, then frowned when it turned out to be a hamburger wrapper. “Don’t lemme forget to throw this away,” she crumpled it up and stuck it in her pocket. “I was back here ‘cause the shrine was too loud. I come back here sometimes when I need quiet. Then I heard someone yelling and stomping around, so I hid. And then you ran by.” She turned back and smiled at him and wow. People talked about getting butterflies in your stomach around someone you liked, but he was pretty sure he had Mothra rampaging around in his gut. “Oh!”

“Huh?” Ryuji was dragged along as Akira jogged up to a tree that he’d whipped around hoping to shake the old man off. Then she reached up for-- “Oh! My mitten!” It had gotten stuck to the bark somehow when he’d pushed off of it. Akira pulled it down and presented it to Ryuji with a flourish and a grin.

He took it and quickly crammed his hand back into it, then wiggled and flexed his fingers until it sat right again. After several minutes of not having a hand in it, the mitten had gone cold. And his fingers felt even colder not wrapped up with Akira’s.

“Hey, uh Kicchan? C-could we still hold hands?” He asked. “Um! J-just so I don’t lose you and get lost! That’s all!”

Kicchan giggled again, just as red as her coat again as she held her hand out for him. “Sure thing, Ryuji.” One reassuring squeeze later and they were walking again. “But we aren’t very far now, you can hear all the people from here.”

Ryuji strained his ears listening, then chuckled nervously because she was right. “Oh. You can, huh? W-well, still. Better safe than sorry.” They swung their hands between them for a few steps. “Hey, is it okay that I’m callin’ you Kicchan? You’re just callin’ me Ryuji, I ain’t bein’ rude am I?”

“Hm? No, it’s fine. I, um. Like it,” she mumbled and tucked her face into her coat. “Your name’s just nice to say is all. Ry~u~ji~♪!” Akira enunciated his name in a singsong that probably would’ve sounded mocking from anyone else. But from her it just sounded like music. He couldn’t help the laugh that bubbled up in his chest and the grin that broke out across his face.

“Yeah, well. Yours is nicer!” Ryuji declared loudly as they walked out of the trees and through the crowd of adults still celebrating. “A~ki~ra~♪!” He sang back, although not nearly as nice. Kicchan still seemed happy with it, if that smile was anything to go by. Like the sun breaking through the clouds and wow. Wow. He was gonna marry her when he grew up. Ryuji didn’t even care about all the people staring at them as they walked by, as long as he got to keep that smile.

“Ry~u~ji~♪!”

“A~ki~ra~♪!”

“Ry~u~ji~♪!”

“A~ki~ra~♪!”

“Ryuji!” The two of them jumped at the voice that rang out behind them. “Ryuji, there you are!”

“Mom!”

His mother skidded to a stop in front of them and threw her arms around him, squeezing him tight. “Oh, I was so worried, sunshine, I’m so sorry. Are you alright? Did he--?”

Ryuji wiggled free of her grip long enough to loop his free arm around her and return the hug. He brushed a hand lightly over a bruise above her eyebrow that hadn’t been there earlier, and she shook her hair over her eyes to try and cover it back up. That bastard. No need to worry her, then. “I’m fine, mom. I’m fast as lightnin’ remember? Plus my new friend saved me! We hid until Aunt Manaka got him.” Hana’s eyes flicked back to the kid holding onto her son’s hand, now trying to hide behind him. “‘S okay, Kicchan, it’s just my mom. She’s nice.”

Akira had tucked herself down into her shoulders and her voice was muffled through the collar of her coat. “H’lo. I’m Akira.”

Hana smiled warmly at Akira and held out a hand for her to shake. “Hello, Akira-chan, my name’s Hana Sakamoto. Thank you for taking care of my boy.” Kicchan took it cautiously, but stayed tucked behind a Ryuji who was awkwardly pretzeled from still trying to hold onto both of them.

“Y’r welcome. He’s nice, I like him,” Akira mumbled and took her hand back to cling to Ryuji’s arm with both. Ryuji blushed again and his mom grinned at him.

She straightened up and ruffled her son’s hair affectionately. “I like him, too. He’s a good kid. And so are you, Akira-chan. How ‘bout I treat you two to some cocoa and taiyaki to warm back up, and then we can find your folks too, kiddo.” Akira nodded and pointed to a nearby storefront that was still lit up. “Perfect! So I know red bean is Ryuji’s favorite, how about you?”

Akira was being quiet enough that even Ryuji, already at her level, still had to listen hard to hear her. “Chocolate, please.” There was no way his mom could hear her.

“Chocolate for Kicchan, please!” Ryuji relayed for them.

Hana nodded approvingly. “Chocolate and hot cocoa, I like your style.” She took Ryuji’s other hand and led them through the crowd to the convenience store taking full advantage of the New Year’s revelers. Ryuji and Akira stayed outside, still holding hands and leaned up against the wall while she went in. Better that than drag the kids through a bunch of unsteady adults bickering over snacks. She returned with a hot cocoa and a taiyaki for each of them after a few minutes and Ryuji and Akira finally, hesitantly let go of each other long enough to eat.

“Th’nk you,” Akira mumbled.

“Kicchan says thanks!”

“Just Kicchan, huh?” His mom teased.

“Wh- I do too!”

Hana laughed, then craned her neck to look through the thinning crowd. “So where are your parents--”

“Akira! Akira, there you are!” A woman with dark curls and grey eyes called out, striding through the crowd like a fish moving through water.

Kicchan straightened up and waved with her half-eaten taiyaki. “Hi mama!” She called louder than Ryuji thought she was capable of. “Where’s papa? I wanted him to meet my new friend.”

The woman, apparently Mrs. Kurusu, frowned that Adults Having Adult Problems frown. “He got called into work, apparently the man who was supposed to be on shift is indisposed,” she explained in the kind of tone that folks tended to use about his old man. “So we need to get going soon.”

“Awww.”

“I know, dear.” Akira’s mom turned to Ryuji’s mom. “Thank you for watching my son. Can I at least pay you back for the snacks?” She gestured to the three of them--wait, hold up, what?

“Your son?!” Ryuji yelped. Akira tilted her--his head at Ryuji in confusion.

“Yeah? What, did you think I was a girl or something?” He giggled, and it didn’t sound any different than before. But it was. But it wasn’t.

“Uh, yeah! Boys ain’t allowed to be that pretty! It’s illegal! You gotta like, go to Pretty Jail or somethin’!” Ryuji shouted and pointed an accusing mitten at him. Akira was still laughing at him, still smiling that smile that was still making his stomach all flippy. Their moms were laughing at him too; Ryuji’s loud and shameless in a way he hadn’t heard in a while, Akira’s in a soft way that just made Akira make more sense.

“That’s okay. I’ll just break out,” Akira shrugged, then looked up at his mother. “Can my friend stay the night? He’s really nice. And so is Sakamoto-san.”

Ryuji bounced on his toes a few times. “Oh! Can I?” Okay, so Akira was a boy. That just meant they could hang out more instead. Maybe he hadn’t met his soulmate in a shrub, maybe he wasn’t gonna marry Akira someday, but he could definitely go for a sleepover.

“I don’t think…” Kurusu-san started, but her eyes caught on Hana’s forehead and she hesitated. Their moms seemed to have one of those ‘Grownups Having A Whole Conversation Without Talking’ looks before she started talking again. “Actually, that sounds like a lovely idea, honey. You boys look to be about the same size. You can share one of your extra sets of pajamas,” she said more to Akira than anyone else. “And Sakamoto-san can come over for tea while your father’s at work. I could use the company.” The last bit was aimed at Ryuji’s mom with a smile, but the tone felt like when he was being told to do his chores. Don’t argue with me, it’s for your own good.

Hana smiled tiredly, then nodded and sighed. “Alright, alright, I know when I’m outvoted. I’ll follow you,” she said to Kurusu-san.

“Woohoo!” Ryuji pumped his fist and grabbed at Akira’s shoulder. “We’re gonna stay up all night watching Featherman!”

The other boy nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah! I got the whole box set for Christmas!”

“Sweet!”

Hana interjected with a hand on Ryuji’s shoulder to slow his bouncing, “boys, it is well past midnight, I’d be surprised if you didn’t fall asleep as soon as you’re in pajamas.”

Ryuji pouted up at her. “I ain’t ti--” he paused as he was overwhelmed by a yawn that almost popped his jaw, “--ired, I’ll be fine.”

Akira fell into step with his mother, then froze and whipped around to Ryuji. “Wait! I didn’t make my wish yet! We gotta make a wish at the shrine!”

His hand was ridiculously warm as it wrapped around Ryuji’s, probably from holding the cocoa that he’d hastily dropped in the trash. Before Ryuji could react, Kicchan had grabbed him and was dragging him back in the direction they’d come from.

“Akira!” Kurusu-san called sharply.

“BerightbackIpromise!” He called back to his mom as Ryuji stumbled along with him. They came to a clumsy stop in front of the offertory box and Akira started rifling through his pockets. He frowned at the crumpled burger wrapper he’d meant to throw away, crammed it back into a different pocket, then pulled out two five-hundred yen coins. “One for me and one for you,” he announced proudly and pressed one of them into the palm of Ryuji’s mitten. Rather than argue that he could pay for his own, because honestly he had no idea if he could, he nodded and closed his hand around the gift.

Ryuji watched Akira carefully, then did his best to copy his movements. He hadn’t really done this before without his mom to remind him how, but he knew exactly what he was gonna wish for. Marrying him was definitely probably off the table, but...

I wanna see Kicchan again after we leave.

A few minutes later, they were jogging back to where their moms were waiting for them.

“So, what’d you two wish for?” Hana asked and waggled her eyebrows at Ryuji.

Both boys blushed, looked at each other, and then quickly looked away before falling into step to leave. Their mumbled answers tangled together as they spoke at the same time.

“S-same as always, I guess.”

“‘S a secret.”

Ryuji hoped they wished for the same thing.

---

Three years later his mother divorced that deadbeat asshole, after advice from a stranger to save up behind the drunken bastard’s back, and the help of a lawyer named Kurusu. They had never had time before or a reason after to go back to that little town in the country.

---

Ryuji was running, feet pounding against the concrete hard enough to rattle his teeth, cold air sharp against his face, knee aching for a break as the shout echoed off the nearby buildings.

“Dammit! Screw that pervy teacher!”

“...pervy teacher?”

Ryuji whipped around to the voice behind him, already on the defensive. “What do you want? You plannin’ on rattin’ me out to Kamo… shi… da?”

He couldn’t help but trail off because he knew that face, nerd glasses or no; wild curls like storm clouds, grey eyes almost too big for the face they were set in, voice a hell of a lot deeper after nearly a decade but just as soft, and built in a lanky way that probably hadn’t been mistaken for a girl in years.

“Kicchan? The hell are you doing here?” Ryuji blinked a few times and watched Akira’s posture melt from tense apprehension to open surprise. Then he smiled like sunlight breaking through the clouds and wow. After all those years, there was Mothra in his stomach again. He had been putting off that particular revelation for a while, hadn’t he?

“Ryuji!”

#my writing #persona 5 #pegoryu week 2021 #pegoryu #the return of hana san!#uhh don't let the warning tags throw you off it is actually very sweet

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rivka-kopelman · 3 years

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Delivery Lemur Logbook : 3

November 2nd, 3431 Deliveremur here. So: looking in my in-box - I found a dozen or two dozen delivery missions I forgot. The easiest one is: pick up 30 pounds of sand on Mantis Epsilon and drop it off at Chicken City in the core of Gallagalla. That's just a five minute drive. Mission accepted.

This is Mantis Epsilon. They apparently sell sand here. I don't know much about it. This store doesn't have a 30-pound option; I can get thirty small baggies or one giant one. I got a 60-pound bag and I'll just keep the leftovers for myself. Sand has its uses (????)

Alright , sand acquired. Before I could break orbit I got boarded by customs officers who meowed cutely "there's a new tariff on sand" and took a handful of sand out of my bag. They faxed an official receipt to my email and meowed "ok u can go away ha haha."

Anyway. Off we go. It's a very short trip but I decide to start the latest episode of my favorite podcast - 'It's bullshit: Forever Countdown,' where celebrity guests have to count to a random number. "Hello galaxies, it's me your host Mocha Menosky. Our guest today is Dr. Bob from Lake Pond University. As you all know, Dr. Bob is the tic-tac-toe world champion. How ya doing today doctor?" "What?" "Your number is... 47388347345345345333451111110456378374 good luck!" "Uhh one two three four, uh, five..." It's been twelve days. "One million, twohundred twenty nine thousand, four hundred fifty eight, uh, one million..." I notice something: I have no idea where I am. I look at the navigation computer. Oh good I arrived twelve days ago.

Well here's this place. I think it was some kind of dump but people who like mud started living here. There's free parking if you download some tourist information app.

I land on the planet and delete the tourism thing without reading any of it. It's humid and a bit gusty. The old clay tiles of the walkway are warm on my paws and unclean; I make a mental note not to let my tail droop.

I commence my search for Chicken City. I don't see anything like a rail hub. I drop &1R into a donation view-scope and take a peek. There is mud everywhere in all directions. I wish I had a map.

I see a team of Maintenance Deer and ask them for directions. None of them have heard of Chicken City or know a way down to the core. They were called in to fix a vending machine with a bag of chips stuck in it, but their ship broke when they tried to land, and their tools fell in the mud and sank so they're having alot of problems. They asked if I could spare them some of my sand and I gave them a handful. They threw it in the engine room to try to extinguish the fire that has been burning in there for a year. It didn't put the fire out, but they said it's a good start, and as thanks, gave me a coupon for 10% off my next maintenance job.

I wander for a long time in different directions. It's tranquil here but bleak and barren. I poured out a trickle of sand to create a trail so I could find my way back, but the wind ruined it. Just when I feel ready to give up, I find a bus stop. I look in the garbage out of curiosity (it's empty) and sit down to wait. A few minutes later someone else shows up and sits on the damaged bench across from me. A flashy news bulletin lights up the TV (television). News is VERY boring so I watch the mud. Waiting is my favorite game so I'm feeling good.

It's moonrise time around now. I hear an excited reporter on TV (television) saying "We've been faxed by multiple sources inside the space military that the famous commander Lopcorn was defeated and forced to retreat two days ago by the Possum Patrol. This is his first defeat in 18 years. Notorious as the first person to ever score 1 million confirmed murders, Lopcorn rose to the top rank of the space military, but has now been demoted to junior janitor. He was replaced by Kelly Bookbean, who quickly scattered the Possum Patrol rebels. Defense Minister Welker assured the public that this staff change will not interrupt the ongoing bombardment of the distant Floom Empire."

Sudden blasting makes me jump. The broadcast cuts out because someone shot the TV (television). "그의 소녀. 그녀는 힘이 없습니다. 잘 끝나지 않을거야," said Lopcorn, who was sitting right next to me. He's a ruffled white hare with long ears, gold eyes, and a smoking gun. His face was covered with cold anger but he cleared it and slouched sideways, as though relaxed and careless. I've heard of this guy before today, a (nigh?) undefeatable warrior. "Sorry, i hate TV (television)" he continued englishly. "Me too," I say. "Audio is better. Do you know about the podcast 'It's Bullshit: Forever Countdown?' It's my favorite. The episodes are quite long." "Maybe i'll check it. I got lots of free time. i've become a janitor." "A junior janitor" "i was assigned to ‘mop Gallagalla.’ I thought it was a shoe store or something, not a full planet of muck. So funny. They think they can beat the aliens without me. Well, we’ll see. I'm headed for the pub. Is that where you're going?" "No I'm going to Chicken City." "Huh? That's on Gaglagag, isn't it?" I check the fax again. '30 pounds of sand to Chicken City in the core of Gaglagag' "Oh. I'm on the wrong planet." "Same." I ask him, "Do you want to buy some sand?" He asks, "What sand?" Because the sack was empty and it blew away.

#Delivery Lemur #writing

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girls-scenarios · 4 years

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Ready?

Idols: Yoojung and Rina (Weki Meki)

Prompt: yes! finally my fav writing blog's requests are open! I just wanna ask if u could do a Rina/Yoojung scenario where they spend New Year's Eve in Disneyland?????????

Writer: Admin Kiwi

A/N: I ended up taking some liberties since the prompt was a bit vague. Also, I didn’t know this was a ship? But I hope you all enjoy! (Also, it’s been a bit hard for me to write with everything that’s going on. I come to this blog to escape for my mental health and I want my stories to serve the same purpose for all of you, but my attention is split between supporting the BLM movement as much as I possibly can while working, taking care of my mental health, and running this blog. It’s been a rough week. That being said, I hope you’re all healthy, safe, and doing well. I’ll try to be more active soon.)

Tonight, it would be exactly a year since Rina kissed Yoojung for the first time. In fact, it would be exactly a year since Rina’s first kiss ever, underneath the fireworks as the clock struck midnight, ringing in a new year. She wasn’t sure if Yoojung remembered the night like she did, or if it was as special to Yoojung as it was for her, but it was a date that was special for Rina. And she was hoping to repeat that special night again this year, in the same place near the castle as the fireworks burst overhead.

The only issue was getting there on time.

New Years Eve was a busy day for Disneyland employees. Because of the show in front of the castle and the special appearances of characters, not to mention the holiday food and merchandise, people flocked to the park in huge crowds, giving every employee plenty of work to do. Rina was one of the lucky ones: she operated the Peter Pan ride, so her job mostly just consisted of pressing buttons and calling for single riders; the overhead voice read off the safety rules for her so she hardly had to talk. Sure, she had to deal with some annoying parents and kids from time to time, but even when busy, her job stayed the same: press the button so the ride can go. During normal nights, her ride still operated during the fireworks, but on New Years, everyone was there to see the show, so she knew she would be able to get to the castle in time.

Yoojung, on the other hand, worked inside the castle-arguably the most busy spot-as a cashier. Every day was pretty busy for her, but the holidays were all on another level, and Rina knew there would be a chance that she wouldn’t be able to get off in time to see the fireworks. Even though the castle closed in order for the crew to set up the stage and to keep everyone safe during the fireworks show, there was still plenty to do after closing. So Rina could only keep her fingers crossed that everything worked out as planned.

“They usually let us go to see the show,” Yoojung assured her over a rushed break. “So I should be able to meet up with you. Where do you want to meet?”

“Is the spot you found behind the castle last year still there?” Rina asked, her voice hopeful. After a moment of thought, Yoojung nodded.

“I think so. Where we kissed last time?”

Ah, so she did remember. The younger woman beamed. “Yeah, there.”

“It should still be there. Want to meet behind the castle then?” Yoojung smiled back at her, reaching over to tuck a stray strand of hair behind her ear, and Rina’s heart skipped a beat, filling her chest with the same giddiness she’d felt the year before.

“Yes, let’s do that!” She couldn’t wait for the day to end.

Rina spent the rest of the evening glancing at her watch, waiting impatiently for the rides to close. Time seemed to drag by as she operated the ride for the endless line of visitors, until finally the crowd started to thin and her boss’s voice crackled through the radio on her hip, telling them to serve the final visitors and close the ride. She had never finished her duties so quickly, and even her coworker teased her as they finished checking the ride for any lingering visitors.

“Have somewhere to go?” Lucy asked, grinning and wiggling her eyebrows. “You’ve been pretty impatient all day. Does this happen to have anything to do with Yoojung?” Her teasing brought a blush to Rina’s cheeks and she laughed when she saw it, knowing she was right.

“You’re so annoying,” Rina huffed, shaking her head at the younger girl’s antics. “Are you just teasing me because you don’t have anything to look forward tonight?” That statement was about as mean as she got, but Lucy just laughed.

“I’m teasing you because you’re reactions are cute! It has nothing to do with me being single. I wonder what Yoojung would say if she saw you blushing like this just from a little teasing?”

“She’d say that I’m cute.” In a rare burst of confidence, Rina flipped her hair over her shoulder, then immediately blushed again. She was right, of course, because Yoojung always called her cute. But still, it was a bit embarrassing to say aloud. Still laughing, Lucy patted her on the head.

“I’m sure she would. It’s getting late, so I’ll go shut down the ride tonight. You can go on ahead.”

Perking up, Rina looked at the younger girl with wide eyes. “Really?”

“Really, I can tell you’re excited. Go have fun.”

“Thank you!” Rina quickly gave Lucy a hug before taking off, running full speed towards the tower as she pulled out her phone. She still had thirty minutes before the show started, but was Yoojung going to get off in time?

She was about to send a text to her girlfriend when she rounded the corner to the castle and saw her standing outside. Immediately, her face lit up and she skipped over to where Yoojung was waiting with her arms open, pulling the younger girl into a hug as soon as she got close enough.

“You got off in time!” Rina’s voice was higher than usual as she laughed, the giddiness in her chest back as she hugged her girlfriend tight. On the other side of the castle, she could hear the show starting; someone was singing, although she wasn’t sure who. But the show didn’t matter: it was the fireworks that she so desperately wanted to see. As she pulled away, Yoojung took her hand and smiled brightly, bouncing slightly on her feet, obviously just as excited.

“My manager let us all off early to see the fireworks, and I got out here as fast as I could. I didn’t want to miss this.” She nodded her head towards the path leading off next to the castle. “So? Should we go?”

“Let’s go!” Rina’s heart started to pound in her chest as she two of them set off down the dimly lit trail, Yoojung’s hand warm in hers. This was just like last year, the two of them rushing to get off of work on time to see each other under the fireworks. Only then, they had just started dating, and now it had been over a year. Still, she couldn’t help the fluttering excitement she felt from being able to spend another New Year’s Eve with the woman she loved. She could only hope that kissing her under the fireworks behind the castle would become a tradition.

The spot was elevated on a hill and gave the two of them the perfect view of the fireworks while also keeping them hidden from any visitors and the other staff. The fireworks were so close that she could feel the heat from them on her face, but any fear she would have felt was replaced with excitement and anticipation, waiting for the clock to strike midnight.

“Isn’t this place so romantic?” Yoojung commented, sighing happily as she gazed out at the castle. “As stressful as it is working here, I have to say, the view is beautiful.”

“Yeah,” Rina agreed, staring at her girlfriend’s happy face. “It is.”

“Plus, if I didn’t work here, I wouldn’t have got to meet you. So I like it here.” the older woman smiled brightly, dropping Rina’s hand to wrap her arms around her instead, holding her tight. Content, Rina’s arm came up to wrap around her girlfriend’s shoulders as she enjoyed the view stretched out in front of her, an affectionate smile on her lips. For a while, they just enjoyed the soft breeze that tickled their skin, warm from each other’s embrace as they listened to the festivities happening in front of the castle, content to watch from afar. Then, as the countdown started, butterflies appeared in Rina’s stomach.

“It’s almost time,” she said, feeling a little breathless, and Yoojung laughed, turning in Rina’s arms to face her.

“It is. Are you ready?”

“T-to kiss you?” The younger woman stuttered, making her laugh.

“Well, that too. But I meant for the new year.”

“Oh.” Rina pressed her lips together and thought. This year had been wonderful, filled with firsts for the both of them, and she had created a lot of great memories. But she was even more to experience more and create even better memories with Yoojung. Plus, there was no way she could stop the new year from coming. She had to be ready. “I’m ready,” she said with a giggle, pressing her forehead to Yoojung’s. “For both.”

“Me too,” Yoojung said softly, leaning in. “I can’t wait to see what this year will bring for us.” As she finished speaking, the countdown ended, fireworks exploded overhead, and her lips met Rina’s. Yoojung kissed her passionately, as she always did, making the younger woman feel weak in the knees as she pulled her even closer, hoping the moment would never end and, at the same time, feeling excited for the year to come.

She couldn’t wait to spend another year together, and even better, she knew Yoojung felt the same from the way she smiled against her lips and whispered her love between kisses.

#femifics #weki meki #yoojung #rina #girl groups #weki meki scenarios #weki meki fanfiction #girl group fanfiction #kpop fanfiction #kpop girl groups

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notetaeker · 1 year

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RAMADAN CHALLENGE 2023

INTRO:

After doing a ramadan challenge for 2 years so far and benefitting immensely from it, I thought I would post some questions this year! Everyone is welcome to join! Please also let me know if u have any suggestions / notice any mistakes ;_; this is my first time hosting a challenge

Just wanted to thank the anon who asked me abt this, and also @tranquilstudy and @caramelcuppaccino. Your challenges really were my main inspiration when I decided to do a challenge ~ thank uuuu and to @nuuralshams who gave me a lot of ideas for questions and was v excited abt it 💕

RULES:

Reblog this post to let me know you're in! (and to have as reference)

Pls use the tag '#RamadanChallenge2023'

I will be rb-ing every post I see in there (unless it's spam bots)

You can do a question per day or batch them together if you like

You can also do some questions out of order if you want (like answering the surah kahf question on a friday)

Feel free to skip any question or just post abt how ur ramadan went that day / what you ate for iftar / anything tbh

You are also welcome to start late (or early! If you want to use some of the questions as a countdown to Ramadan!)

I also included some Ramadan Prep questions + Eid post if you'd like! ( Very optional...)

I will be starting the challenge when I personally start Ramadan but if Ramadan starts a day earlier for you- you can just start then!

I added a bonus day in case Ramadan is 30 days lol but you can skip it if you want if Ramadan is only 29 days

I will try my best to queue your posts but knowing me I might just mass-reblog 🤡

Anyway Allahumma Balighna Ramadan!!! / Ramadan Mubarak !!!! (based on when you're reading this)

Let me know! If you want to be tagged / reminded when we start!

PREP QUESTIONS (Optional):

Prep day 1: One thing you're looking forward to the most this Ramadan Prep day 2: Do you plan on completing the Qur'an and if so, what's your plan? Are you going to start before Ramadan? Prep day 3: List one thing that would help future you get the most out of this Ramadan, and go do it now! (if possible)

RAMADAN QUESTIONS:

Day 1: What are your goals this Ramadan? Possible suggestions: 1 habit to build, 1 habit to break, and one accomplishment you hope to gain!

Day 2: Are you working/going to school during this month? What about in previous years? How does it affect your ramadan? How do you balance the two?

Day 3: What type of worship comes the easiest to you?

Day 4: Ramadan is the month of the qur'an. What is an ayah from the Qur'an that has changed your view of things or impacted you deeply?

Day 5: Share a memory of Ramadan from your childhood or when you first embraced Islam

Day 6: What are some Ramadan traditions you have, and what are some that you'd like to pass on to others?

Day 7: Best iftar item?

Day 8: What is a suhoor necessity to get you through the day?

Day 9: Share a hadith with us that you read today!

Day 10: First 10 days end today! Do you usually pray taraweeh? If you do then is it at home or at the masjid?

Day 11: How was Ramadan during the covid era? Has everything gone back to normal where you are? Anything you miss from back then?

Day 12: Most challenging thing about Ramadan and how do you try to overcome it?

Day 13: Have you ever completed the qur'an? Ever? What abt during Ramadan?

Day 14: Which story from surah kahf hits you hardest?

Day 15: Do you follow any Ramadan lecture series online? Any that you recommend?

Day 16: Best time to read qur'an during Ramadan? What about outside of Ramadan?

Day 17: What does your ideal Ramadan day look like? What about your Ramadan routine this year?

Day 18: the second 10 days is almost over! Have you ever experienced Ramadan burnout? Any tips to overcoming it?

Day 19: Who are you spending Ramadan with? Family? Roommates? Alone? What is 1 good thing about that arrangement?

Day 20: Have you ever done i'tikaf or qiyamul-layl in previous Ramadans? Are you doing any this time?

Day 21: Any feel-good dua acceptance stories to share? It could be your own story, a friend's, or even from a sheikh that you heard

Day 22: What is something you always miss about Ramadan when it's over? / What do you think you might miss this year?

Day 23: Are you making dua for anything specific? (Any dua you want us to make for you?)

Day 24: Share an Eid memory that sticks out to you! What kind of Eid traditions do you have?

Day 25: Who is a sahaba (companion of the prophet ﷺ) that you feel inspired by? Can you share the story that inspires you?

Day 26: Mention your favorite story about the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, or which of his qualities you look up to the most

Day 27: Your Laylatul-Qadr worship routine! Dhikr? Dua? Salah? Tell us!

Day 28: Think over the last month and the Ramadan that you've spent. Is there something you wish you had spent more time on? There's still 1-2 days left! What's your plan?

Day 30 / BONUS DAY: If you were given an extra day to live, what would you do on that day?

EID: Eid Mubarak! Post a 3x3 or a 3x2 photoset of your eid celebrations! (Optional)

#ramadanchallenge2023 #islamblr #muslimblr #ramadan #ramadan challenge #productivity challenge #qur'an #hadith #save

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monst · 4 years

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T’is the season Day 31

Last TDS fic how ya feel?? Happy New years guys ^.^ let’s have some more fun next year yeah?

All Might, Midnight, Nezu, Stain, AFO, Best Jeanist! (In order so ya can skippies the ones u no likeies)

Warnings: Dark Chocolate, Death mentioning? Or mentions of impending death? Also I don’t know about ya but I found Stain to be so hot o////o Oh and Best Jeanist spoiler. (Also AFO & Stain make more sense if you’ve read Day 25 pt1 AFO)

All Might! (Toshinori Yagi)

No one could get in touch with him. It was as if he was avoiding everyone. Well avoiding you. He had been ever since he had used up the last of his power in the fight with All for One. You knew because he’d do everything in his power to try to get out of the area you were in quickly, his responses to you were short and curt. And, in all honesty it as beginning to hurt you. You didn’t confront him wanting him to speak to you out of his own free will but, it was almost a new year. You didn’t want to start it off without him. So, you confronted him….

“Toshi! Wait.” You had blocked him off and even though he could easily move out of the way he choose to listen. “I think I know why you’ve been avoiding me…. And, I want you to stop. Please stop avoiding me, it’s hurting me a lot more than what you think.”

“I-It’s better this way (Name)” He sighed. “At least this way when it does happen you won’t feel the sting so much.”

“You idiot!” You shouted. Reaching up to yank his shirt to pull him down to your height. Tears welled in you eyes as you glared at him. “I want to be with you. Why don’t you get that? Even if you don’t have much time here... I want to spend your last moments together. I don’t want our last words to be a ‘See you tomorrow at work (Name)’! I want to make more memories with you before that. S-so please Toshi Please j-just-“An ugly sob racked through your body and the tall man wasted no time in wrapping his arms around you. With your face buried in his chest you wailed freely. When you pulled away your eyes were puffy, and you sounded a bit nasally. “I-I just want to spend the n-new years with you and p-pray that you’ll get to see m-most of it. W-with me if y-you’d like.”

He gave you a melancholic smile and with a nod he spoke: “I’m sorry for thinking ignoring you would hurt less. Let’s spend the rest of the time I have left together. And, whatever this new year is going to bring, I’ll be happy to share it with you. The laughs the tears all of it. And, when I do go It’s with good memories. No more ignoring let’s walk until the road ends...”

Midnight (Nemuri Kayama)

“Got any plans?” It was those words that had brought you to where you were now. Nemuri had asked you that the day before the end of the year and, you had replied in earnest. You had no plans and she was eager to invite you to a party. And, not one of those faculty ‘End of the year bash’ parties that Nezu threw. So, there you were your closet’s best framing your form and a cute smile on your lips.

“That guy is totally checking you out.” You heard the erotic hero say. Your smile fell. The last thing you wanted was to end up in the arms of a stranger drunk off your ass. You didn’t not want to wake up on the first with a roaring hangover in a dingy motel bed. ‘No thank you’ you thought looking back at Nemuri.

“Well that’s to bad he’s gonna have to look elsewhere because I’m staying right here with you!” You chirped. “Besides we said we’d do the countdown together.”

Much to your disappointment he came over. You groaned and looked to Midnight as he stood beside you. His ratchet breath tickled your nose and you cringed at what he said. It was the grossest most slurred pick up line you had ever had the misfortune of hearing.

“Soo pretty thang whaddya say~” You scrunched up your face in disgust. And before his hand could touch you Nemuri slapped it away.

“I think you should go your making my girlfriend very uncomfortable.” Her tone serious as she spoke.

“Girlfriend ha!-“ before he could finish Nemuri stood up her eyes slits.

“Are you sure you want to finish what you were going to say? Because I can’t guarantee that you’ll have teeth afterwards.” She threatened. You looked away, You thought she looked hot when she was mad. However, you brought your attention back to them when he went to hit your girl. But, as a pro hero Nemuri was able to knock him out effortlessly with her quirk. You both looked to each other then to the man on the ground.

“He got drunk and passed out.” You interjected.

“He got drunk and passed out.” She agreed, laughing as she sat back up on the bar stool. She slid her hand into yours and smiled. “Why is everyone trying to steal you away from me?” She teased.

“It’s because I’m amazing.” You sassed.

“That’s got to be it.” She grinned. “We missed the countdown you know.”

“Did we?” You hummed leaning in closer to her.

“Yup.” She smiled her nose brushing against yours.

“Well then how about we have one of our own?” You whispered.

“3”

“2”

It wasn’t exactly twelve but, it was the best first kiss of the year you’ve ever had.

Nezu

You let out a groan as you stretched all your joints popping pleasantly. With a deep relived sigh, you turned off the computer. You had finally finished the lesson plans for next year and you were beat. You didn’t have anyone to celebrate New Years with and you really didn’t mind it as much. Once upon a time you had but after years of hero work and teaching it all just became a blur and another day. So, you never really had any issues working through holidays.

Your co-workers had all left to celebrate the coming of the new year. In fact, they left hours ago it was Eleven. They had plans. You had been invited but you refused. You didn’t feel the need to party when you had so much work to do. You were also regarded as a bit of a buzz kill and, you didn’t want to be the wet blanket at the get-together.

You stacked the papers that you needed to give to the principal and made your way to his office. Your brows furrowed when you noticed that the light of the room was one. You thought that maybe someone left them on. But you knocked to make sure. And, when you heard a muffled come in you knew the doctor was in.

“Hey” You greeted “What are you still doing here?”

“I could ask you the same thing (Name).” He replied taking a sip of his coffee.

“Right. Well I finished the lesson plans for the next semester I have them here if you want to go over them.” You offered since the both of you obviously had nothing better to do.

He nodded and you pulled up a chair to join the cute small bear, rat thing. You both went over the material with him making comments and you adding to the curriculum. When the clock struck twelve you jumped. Not only at the noise but because Nezu shot up from his seat and scurried to a cabinet off to the side in his office.

You would admit to being surprised when he pulled out a bottle of brandy. Hell, you didn’t even know he drank anything other than liquid caffeine. When he hopped back up his chair, he handed you a glass that was in his desk. You were slightly embarrassed when he poured you a drink as he was your superior.

“Happy New years (Name).” He smiled raising his glass. “It isn’t exactly champagne but I wasn’t expecting company on New years.”

“It’s fine.” You mumbled clinking your glass against his letting the liquid burn your throat. “You always drink alone in your office.”

“I’m always here on holidays.” He hummed pouring himself another.

You swirled your drink a bit before deciding to ask him something. “You mind If I join you on those days?”

“Not at all” He chirped “Some company is fine on days like this, don’t you think?”

“Maybe.” You grinned.

Stain (Akaguro Chizome)

(Part of the same story line as AFO Christmas)

You were working New Year’s as well. But, could anyone blame you? For starters you had no one waiting for you at home, you didn’t really have people who invited you to things and lastly the pay was tripled. After what happened on Christmas with AFO you had wanted to quit. But you figured that it would be hard to find such a good high paying job. Besides you were good at being a guard and you weren’t about to let some eyeless bastard dictate your life.

Speaking of villains, the area you had jurisdiction over seemed to be filled with the worst of them. And, you wouldn’t lie you had fun asking the villains of Tartarus questions. But your personal favorite was the hero killer. Due to your high rank no one bothered you when you went to chat with the blood quirked man.

In the back of your mind you heard AFO speaking to you, but your quirk easily dissipated the use of his quirk and you severed his mind link. Afterall you wanted to speak with Akaguro.

You used your card to unlock the door and, entered the white room. When you entered the room, you ignored the chair in the center and went to the glass separating you from the villain. His bloodshot eyes followed your movement in boredom and, when you leaned your back against the glass he spoke.

“Why are you always here.” He rasped.

“What? Can’t I visit my favorite prisoner to wish him a happy new year?” You teased.

He scoffed at your words. What was there to look forward to? Taco Tuesdays? Pizza Friday? Your random visits to his cell? Actually, he looked forward to those. Everyone else thought his views were bogus but, you actually listened to him. He liked hearing you comment on his views of society. What he loved more was that you tastefully agreed with some of his points. You truly were the only capable person in this hell hole. At least that’s what he thought.

“Chizome I’m curious.” You began. “Why the hell didn’t you become a hero instead? Like if you had the clout and attention of the masses people might have put two and two together and, you could have made a reformation movement.”

“Why? I didn’t want to soil myself by becoming the same type of scum as those fake heroes.” He sneered. “And, why are you asking me the same thing again. You’ve been coming here often.” He mused suspiciously. “You look like a rat scurrying away from a large prey.”

“Wow thanks.” You rolled your eyes turning to look at the extremist man. Your eyes looked to the sides suspiciously as you leaned in closer. He too moved in closer. And, in a voice barely above a whisper you spoke. “That man, he’s been trying to talk to me.”

“AFO?” he questioned. You nodded grimly. “Then tell one of those shitty doctors to up his sedation meds.”

“And, have them be suspicious as to why he’s speaking to me?!” You whisper yelled Stain just shrugged.

“That sounds like a you problem.” He dropped to the ground to perform pushups and you groaned.

“Come on Chizome I thought we were pals?” You whined.

He glared at you. “Are you serious? You’re a prison guard (Name).”

“So?” You pouted.

“Get out.” He sighed continuing his set. “I can’t deal with the stupidity coming out of your mouth right now.”

“Did you get flustered?” You snickered. “Shut up.” He grumbled.

“Oh, you did!” You grinned. “Well I’ll leave you to your pointless sweating, Happy new year’s Chizome!” You called exiting his cell.

“Whatever.” He huffed he’s face feeling warm. But it was because he was working out! It wasn’t because you thought of him s a friend! Definitely not!

AFO

After you left the hero killer’s cell you could feel it. His presence that is. You had cut him off from your mind, but you could still feel him trying to push in. You were just grateful that even though he had a multitude of quirks he wasn’t proficient in all of them. Telepathy being one of his weaker ones as he had admitted during your conversation that one Christmas night.

Tired of his insistence that felt like a constant poke at the back of your head you walked to his cell. You wouldn’t risk going inside. Even you would be heavily questioned if you entered his room without a medic or another guard. Therefore, you resorted to glaring at him from the small square window on the door. And you dropped your mental fire wall.

‘What the fuck do you want potato head.’ You hissed in your mind link with the criminal.

‘My, my such awful treatment to your elders (Name).’ His voice echoed in your mind. ‘I believe the Hero Killer was treated with much more respect than that.’

‘So? I don’t think that’s any of your business.’ You sassed. ‘And, I told you the 25th stop trying to communicate with me. Whatever it is you have to say, say it to someone else. As a matter of fact you can go ahead and tell All Might. I think he’d be down for another visit.’

‘This brash way of speaking will no doubt get you in trouble.’ You could hear the frown in his voice. His distaste at your brazen disrespect hung was palpable. ‘I don’t appreciate this tone in which you speak to me in’

‘Boo fucking hoo.’ You continued ‘Are you gonna do something about it?’

‘Not when your hand is above the emergency button.’ He answered .

You felt a chill run down your spine. ‘Just how powerful is he.’ You thought ‘Is he fucking omnipresent now??’

‘Not quite’ He chuckled ‘I can teach you how to do it as well.’

‘Offering me power isn’t gonna get you anywhere.’ You hissed.

‘No, I suppose it isn’t not with your abilities. I just offer you help in understanding how to use them.’ He proposed.

‘No thanks.’ You spat ‘Now if that’s all you had to say I’m leaving.’

‘(Name)’ He called.

“What!?” You snarled.

“Happy New Year, He’s to seeing more of you this year.”

“Doubtful.”

Best Jeanist (Hakamata Tsunagu) :’)

You weren’t one to partake in Hatsumode. You usually let the year roll in and didn’t think of temples or shrines. And, you felt a bit silly for being there in your warm kimono. You were one of those who didn’t believe in superstitions especially ringing a bell for a wish. It was part of your culture, but you had never liked it. Well that was before, now it seemed as though it was your only hope.

You stood in the long line waiting to get to the front. It didn’t matter that the cold nipped at your skin. It didn’t matter that you couldn’t feel your toes. No one else had given you any answers or results. When you finally reached the front, you tugged on the thick rope and clapped your hands to pray. Pray for what? For Hakamata Tsunagu known to the public as Best Jeanist. After his aid in the fight with AFO he disappeared.

You just wanted him back. You could feel how your tears escaped your tightly closed eyes. And you knew that those behind you were getting impatient but what else could you do. You begged and pleaded to who ever heard to bring him back to you safely. Or at least to protect him. You begged that he would be able to come back. ‘Please, please, please I beg of you. Have mercy. Please let him be alive. Please bring him back. Please let him come home. Please allow him to see our son being born. Let him be okay. Please, please……please.’

*Ring*

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maya-net · 3 years

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Documentation on a Silver Exorcist, a Small Medium, a Smiling Siren, et al. - Chapter 1

Chapter 1 - Stars Align: Emma Xing Qixin, Tech Support and Professional Administrator of the Unofficial Zheng Ge’s Fanclub

The rustling of the seven large plastic packages of heavily discounted ramen complements the unforgivably nasty squeak of the styrofoam that protects the equally heavily discounted century eggs that Emma had spent the last of her weekly budget on. Squashed together in a trusty, faded blue shopping bag, they are placed very carefully on the chair. Her backpack is dropped just slightly less carefully onto another chair, and she rolls her shoulders, breathing in the various blends of caffeine and sugar wafting around the SunDollarsTM store that she had desperately scouted for.

Xiqiang glides into the chair opposite, and with an elegant slide of an arm, slips Emma’s other equally faded blue shopping bag on to the seat beside her. Emma doesn’t understand how a human being can be that graceful, and sends a silent apology to her mom for being a failure of a daughter.

“I will order some refreshments,” Xiqiang’s voice washes over the background noise of the other patrons in the café. “What would you like? It will be my treat.”

“Oh no no no, no need! I have -” Emma grunts as she bends over her backpack and pulls down the zipper ornamented with the keychain of a blond cyborg, “a gazillion SundollarsTM gift cards! My college orientation and faculty events have the occasional lucky draws or mini contests, and I’d always get something out of them. It’s great, really. I regift them to my friends for birthdays. Saves me time and money from having to buy actual birthday presents. I keep my money, they get their coffee. But. Um. You didn’t hear that.” With some difficulty, she wrestles out a bright red gift card from the stack that is threatening to burst out of the seams of the pouch sewn into her backpack. “Ah, I’ll save this table. Could you help me order a large caramel frappe? And maybe one of their giant cookies. Any flavour is fine. Please and thank you!”

A pause. “Very well,” Xiqiang graciously replies as she accepts the gift card.

Seven minutes later, Emma is happily slurping down her frappe as a countdown timer to the livestream event pops up on her laptop screen. 47 minutes to go. Her ears are now plugged with a pair of earphones. Opposite her, Xiqiang is steadily typing away on her laptop with unnaturally impeccable posture.

It is at this very moment. That the universe decides to be an utter demon and opens the gates of chaos on what was supposed to have been a peaceful night with Emma Xing and the livestream of her Zheng ge, actor-singer and golden-hearted, multi-talented John Zheng.

Incoming Video Call: Estelle Xing

Emma accepts the call on her phone, and props it up on the table with the camera angled at her. She connects her second pair of earphones (won from a secondary school Poetry-in-Motion Competition with her epic poem Blood is a Vein Work of Art-eries) and stuffs the side with the microphone into her right ear. “Mom.”

“Emma. The house has no WiFi. My phone has not enough data to stream Gege’s event.”

“What. Why? Is it the router again? Did you turn it off for thirty seconds and turn it back on again?”

"Yes. Actually, I called Cellularity and they said that they were having a city-wide network issue.”

“Tch. D*mn company. I keep telling you to switch service providers!” Emma pinches the bridge of her nose. “Wait, where’s Gramma? We all know she's the tech-savvy one, shame on you.”

“... She’s with her tai chi group today.”

“What?! I thought that was next week! And how could she miss Gege’s stream?!”

“... They rescheduled because one of their grandsons is getting married next week...”

“... Just... Go to a café or somewhere with WiFi and stream it there. Do you have leftover SundollarsTM gift cards from my last visit?”

Emma’s mom grimaces. “Yes. See, I actually thought of that. I’m at the nearest one.” The camera angle wobbles, and the queue of chattering teenagers at the cashier behind Emma’s mom blips into view for a hot second.

Emma feels a strange sense of pride well up in her chest. “Mommy! So smart!”

Mommy laughs weakly. “Haha. Ah. Yah. I bought a strawberry shake. And then they told me that SunDollarsTM’s WiFi is actually with Cellularity. All the branches. In the whole city.”

… “Mom. Why is your luck so bad. Also. Why! Are! You! Drinking a strawberry shake! You are diabetic!”

“Almost diabetic! And this is low sugar! And! All my good luck was used up to give birth to you. Emmiee~”

“Don’t Emmie me! Aiyah, hang up hang up, don’t waste your data. I’ll message Danny. He’s with DiGiTellTM, not that bloodsucking Cellularity. You can go leech off his Wifi.”

“Aiyoh, your Danny, how can you do this to him - “

“ByeMomloveyou.” Emma ends the call, and snatches her phone off the table to begin typing at the lightspeed typical of her generation. The baby blue smiley starfish phone charm attached to it smacks her knuckles.

“Um. Pardon me,” Xiqiang coughs politely. Emma’s eyes dart up. “Your earphones weren’t connected properly.”

Oh.

“Oh. Aaaaaaahahahahahahaha! Ha! Sorry about that! I’ll just...” Emma mumbles and screws in the earphone jack infinitesimally. “... tighten... this. I don’t use this pair very much. I forgot it does that. Sorry.”

“It is fine.” Xiqiang blinks at her curiously. “Your mother is in WalaysiaTM?”

Emma’s fingers pause in their assault on her phone’s keyboard, brown eyes wide. “How did you know? Oh. Oh of course.” She slaps her forehead. “Our SundollarsTM WiFi here is obviously fine. We obviously don’t have Cellularity here in CanataTM. And yeah, I kind of revert to my accent when I’m with my family. You can tell?”

Xiqiang nods politely. “I see. Well, I do hope that this works out for you and your mother. You seem to be... close?”

Emma beams. “Thanks!” She returns to her phone.

LuckyStar: Danny.

No reply. She frowns.

LuckyStar: Danny DanyDanny. Dannyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

Seen by BetterDanU 7.08PM

Emma’s nostrils flare.

LuckyStar: DANNY YOU DIPSTICK WAKE UP WAKEUP I KNOW UR AWAKE EMERGENCY

LuckyStar: DANIEL NG! U WAKE UP OR ILL POST THAT NEW YEARS VIDEO OF U. U KNOW WHICH ONE

BetterDanU: …

BetterDanU: I actually WAS SLEeping because some ppl actually have to WORK friday nite and want to zzz sat morning.

BetterDanU: Have u not headr of timezones. WHAT DO U WANT

LuckyStar: Liar, i know ur schedule, u were def not sleeping.

LuckyStar: Gege’s livestream is today!

BetterDanU: … I know. U wouldnt shut up abt it. wat do u want

LuckyStar: Cellularity’s wifi is down all city and mom cant stream it

BetterDanU: tell her to go to sundollars

LuckyStar: sundollars is w cellularity! 😡

BetterDanU: … bloodsuckers.

LuckyStar: I KNOW. Anyway, mom is at the sundollars near our house. U know which one. Go pick her up n let her use ur wifi pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaz

BetterDanU: …......… fine.

LuckyStar: tnx ur the best!

BetterDanU: go away

With that situation handled, Emma neatly bites off one point of her star-shaped cookie, and turns her eyes back to her laptop screen. 36 minutes to go.

Score: Emma – 1; Universe – 0.

The Universe decides to try again.

Incoming Video Call: Emily Xing

Emma slowly swipes across her phone screen after triple-checking that her earphones are 100% plugged in.

“... Hi Gramma.”

“Emma!” Several ladies’ heads of various artificial shades of red, brown and black bob into view behind Emma’s grandmother’s face on Emma’s phone. “Why can’t we log in to your VooDooTM account on Mimi’s computer?”

“... Gramma, did you all reschedule your tai chi group to watch Gege’s stream together using my VIP account which you definitely bragged about to them?”

“Emily, we kowtow! Your Emma is the best!” hollers one of the ladies. Emma’s grandmother preens.

Gramma, Emma despairs, why are you so Asian?

“Emmie~”

Emma closes her eyes and mutters, “Don’t Emmie me...”

“We have VooDooTM open on my laptop, but there is seven of us and one laptop is not enough! Mimi’s computer cannot access the page! It says – it says – what does it say?!” Emma’s grandmother yells.

“This content is not available in your country!” Aunty Mimi yells back from somewhere behind.

Emma sighs in exasperation, “Gramma, they’ll need to install a VPN. Do you remember how we did it on your computer?”

Emma’s grandmother is stunningly silent for a solid three seconds, and shakes her head. Emma sighs again. “What’s the address?”

One minute later:

LuckyStar: Danny danny danny

LuckyStar: is everytng ok w mom?

BetterDanU: yeah, shes taken over my living room and tv I hooked up to the comp.

BetterDanU: Shes drinkin a poisonous lppking pink drink and eating those giant star cookies they hv. Theyre not going to last until the end of the dtream.

LuckyStar: … wait.

LuckyStar: wHAT COOKIES. Get them away frm her, shes almost diabetic!

BetterDanU: how can someone be slmost diabetic???

BetterDanU: … she says its low sugar. theyre actually rpetty good.

BetterDanU: *pretty

LuckyStar: u traitor! and of all the typos to correct!

BetterDanU: ….......

LuckyStar: anyway, DANNY I NEED UR HELP ITS ANOTHER EMERGENCY

BetterDanU: what now

LuckyStar: dont tell mom this,

BetterDanU: oh? gossip?

LuckyStar: but gramma is with her taichi grp now and theyre trying to stream Gege’s event on two computers but the second one wont work becz they need vpn on that one

BetterDanU: Wow. brutal gramma.

LuckyStar: danny pleeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaase can u go help them install the vpn

LuckyStar: pleeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaase 🥺🥺🥺

BetterDanU: ….............

BetterDanU: where r they

Twenty-ish minutes and one VPN install and seven impressed old ladies and one harrassed Daniel Ng later, Emma daintily bites off the second point of her star cookie.

Emma – 2; Universe – 0.

Xiqiang sips her tea quietly as Emma narrates this second victory to her, and then digresses into hero-worshipping multi-talented, golden-hearted John Zheng.

Emma swoons. “We all stan him so much across multiple generations! Sure, he’s eye candy, but you know what, even I can admit that, objectively, he’s not the best looking. No but!” She sucks in some of her frappe to quickly rehydrate, “Even though his eyes are not 100% symmetrical, you know they’re 100% real! Can’t say the same about everyone else! Not that there’s anything wrong with that. And! Even though his teeth aren’t 100% perfect... You should see his smile! Oh! My! Heart!” She clutches said heart. “So genuine! Like a bunny! And most of all, that VOICE! That BRAIN! And that HEART!”

Xiqiang tilts her head slightly in what is definitely interest.

“You should watch his songs and dramas and his interviews! He’s really mature, has a charming sort of wisdom, and he really understands his characters. He works so, so hard, and he’s super nice to everyone, even his janitors! And even his haters! Like, what the heck!” A deep sigh. “He is. The Best Guy. In the Universe.”

And thus, the Universe’s third Attempt at utter buffoonery manifests itself in the yet another round of buzzing of Emma’s Very Tired phone. Emma slowly slumps in her seat. Xiqiang’s almond eyes flick to the poor phone, and she excuses herself as she returns to her own laptop for business-y exorcist stuff.

Emma breathes in. Very Deeply. And returns to her Very Tired phone.

Alicia: Hi Emma!

Alicia: Its been a while. I hope you are well!

Emma scrolls up to check the last conversation she had with Alicia. Eight months ago, when they had exchanged the obligatory birthday wishes, and then slinked back to their respective lives until the next birthday.

It’s a bit sad, actually. Emma and a handful of secondary school friends had once been pretty tight, having gone through the horrors of academia and adolescence together. But ever since graduation, everyone had sort of just... drifted apart. With the exception of Danny, practically everyone she knew and was close to had gone on to different cities and even countries to pursue tertiary education in fields so varied you would wonder how everyone had even managed to grow up together in the same academic cohort forced to take up certain courses due to the way their country’s totally not flawed educational system had been structured because of course everyone absolutely agrees on the complete relevance to real life that is inherent in subjects such as Physics and Geography and Moral Studies (which, in all fairness, would be considered a fairly necessary subject especially in today’s society, had it not been based on pure rote memorisation of the regimented definitions of pre-determined moral values instead of critically applying said moral values in the written scenarios thrown to them every exam) and flippin’ dipsticky CALCULUS and and and -

And we digress.

Emma: Alicia! It’s been a while!

Emma: How may I help u?

Alicia: Heehee. 😇

Alicia: iirc, I think u mentioned that u got a VIP VooDooTM account?

Emma: … Alicia you leech! Go buy ur own account!

Alicia: im poor and u know it!

Emma: We’re millennials! We're all poor!

Emma: go upgrade with a 30 day free trial. Then just unsubscribe after.

Alicia: I can’t. 😭 I did it before and ti remembers my email add and wont let me do it again.

Alicia: *it *won’t

Emma: Then use another email add! We’re millennials! Who doesn’t have a back up email account?

Alicia: I did! I used up my JmailTM, insightTM, innet, etc etc accounts last year

Emma: Use ur parents’!

Alicia: I did! They were

Alicia: Confused when they got the notifs but thank goodness they thought it was Junk 😊

Emma: … Girl, how much drama do you watch on there.

Alicia: Too much. Im in too many fandoms.

Alicia: EMMA PLEASE! It's just to watch John Zhengs promo livestream for The Fox today! I swear I will not misuse ur account!

Alicia: One day when I have money, I swear I will buy my own account.

Emma: That is a lie and we both know it.

Alicia: 🤐

Emma remembers their shared afternoons of literal tears after every Calculus test they barely passed, and curses her soft heart as she gives Alicia her user name and password in an act of benevolence which she somehow has a feeling she will come to regret.

Alicia: Thank you sm. U rock!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Emma: Its so u don’t get desperate enough to do anytng illegal.

Alicia: We both know im not that smart lol

Emma: We are legal! And scrupulous!

Emma: For Zheng ge!

Alicia: For Zheng ge!

“John Zheng seems to have an unusually loyal fanbase,” Xiqiang comments from behind her laptop. Emma nods absent-mindedly. She has barely bitten off the third point of her star cookie when her Very Very Tired phone begins buzzing again.

Incoming Video Call: BetterDanU

No longer keeping track of her score with the Universe, Emma sinks lower into her chair under Xiqiang’s intrigued gaze, and weakly answers her phone, “Hello?”

She does not expect her grandmother’s distraught face under the profile name of BetterDanU: “Emmie! Why can’t we log into your account with another computer? It says that – that – Danny ah, what does it say?”

Emma nearly spits out blood. “How many devices are you trying to log into?!” Her hard-earned, greatly coveted VIP account that no one else seemed to want to buy for themselves allowed simultaneous sign-ins to a maximum of ten different devices, a feature that was absolutely necessary for the three generations of the Xing family.

“Mimi’s daughters and granddaughters came downstairs and heard about Zheng ge’s livestream. Two laptops are not enough for all of us, so of course we had to get more!”

Emma sends a silent thank you to Danny who by now must be an expert on VPN installations. Speaking of which.

“Danny, you there? Just sign up for a free 30-day trial account. And don’t forget to unsubscribe later.”

“I did.” Danny’s muffled voice sounds admirably calm, but there is definitely the subtlest note of misery in it. “Aunty Mimi’s granddaughter invited her neighbourhood friends to watch the stream, and we are out of accounts.”

“How! Many! Computers?!”

Emma thinks she hears a suspicious clearing of the throat from Xiqiang that may or may not have been a laugh. Emma locks eyes with her in despair.

There is a tiny, tiny curl of Xiqiang’s lips as she casually remarks, “I am done with my e-mails for the day, and would like to relax with some form of entertainment. VooDooTM seems to have quite the selection of highly rated dramas like you advertised so eagerly to me earlier, and I have been told that there will be a promotional livestream this evening for the much-anticipated... The Fox?” There is definitely a sparkle in those almond eyes. “I thought it might interest you to know that I have decided to watch this livestream, and will do so on my newly purchased VIP account, the user details of which -” she slides over a SundollarsTM napkin covered in the prettiest handwriting Emma has ever had the good fortune to lay her bloodshot eyes on, “ - are written here.”

Emma stares at her with now goo-goo eyes. “Xiqiang! You are a literal angel!”

“Xi-what? Who are you with?” Danny’s head pops into view next to Gramma’s gleeful face.

“Danny! I’m hanging up! I’ll send you a new user account info you guys can use!”

“What -” his calm façade is definitely slipping.

Emma does not hear the curious titters of “Xiqiang? Wah! What an intimidating name!” “Who would dare to name their son Xiqiang?” “Must be very strong!” “Must be very shuai!” as she chirps in reply, “A professional exorcist, your saviour, and my new bf!”

A delicate clink of a white plate ladened with fresh chocolate chip muffins jerks Emma’s eyes up from her phone. “Oh, a snack for the stream? Xiqiang, did you order this? You shouldn’t have!”

Xiqiang leans forward to divide the muffins evenly. “It is fine.”

Danny chokes on the other line, “What what what -”

“Now don’t bother me anymore, Zheng ge’s livestream is going to start. Check your message! I’ll send you the info! See you later! Bye, Gramma! Bye, Aunties! Enjoy the stream! Zheng ge fighting!”

LuckyStar: [photo attached]

LuckyStar: Isn’t that THE prettiest handwriting you have ever seen?

LuckyStar: Oh, but if you can’t read it, the login name is YXQ_Gege

LuckyStar: and password is LuckyStar123

LuckyStar: wow. what a sense of humour.

LuckyStar: Anyway! U seriously rock! Thanks Danny! I owe u my life!

LuckyStar: Aunty mimi makes seriously good cakes, so u might as well stay.

LuckyStar: And remember, don’t tell mom!!!

BetterDanU: WHO IS XIQIANG AND WHY IS HIS PASSWORD UR USERNAME

The star cookie is decimated as Emma congratulates herself on a job well done against the schemes of the Universe. Her laptop screen is flooded with comments when John Zheng’s shy smile fades into view as the livestream finally, finally begins.

“Gege!” Emma whisper-squeals. “You can’t hear me and you don’t know I exist! But! You will not believe the night I’ve just had! Your face heals my eyes and your heart heals my soul!” She silences her desperately buzzing phone.

Xiqiang breathes in deeply, and lets herself smile for the first time in a very long time. After an unusual evening of using the Skytrain for the first time, encountering a low-levelled spirit which the Council had not thought to Cleanse, meeting the most interesting Class Three medium who was currently hugging her backpack as she immersed herself in a long-awaited livestream of a clearly beloved celebrity who she had taken great pains to introduce Xiqiang to, and putting the tiniest dent in her bank account to sign up for a VooDooTM account for various reasons, Xiqiang relaxes in her chair, and does not let herself think about tomorrow.

Character Profiles

1. Emma Xing Qixin

Emma is derived from the Germanic word ermen meaning "whole" or "universal". Emma is also used as a diminutive of Emmeline, Amelia or any other name beginning with "em".

星 (Xīng): star

运气 (Yùnqì): luck

欣 (Xīn): happy

Height: 154 cm; 5.05 ft | 159 cm (error; there is a story behind this)

Tools: Several reuseable shopping bags, backpack, blond cyborg keychain, laptop, secondhand phone, baby blue smiley starfish charm bought by her mom Estelle and customised further by her grandmother Emily

2. Xiqiang

希望 (Xīwàng): hope

强度 (Qiángdù): strength

For the sake of this story, “Xiqiang” is considered a very masculine name.

Height: 179 cm; 5.87 ft

Tools: Laptop, traditional calligraphy brush set, angled-tip pen set, normal ballpoint pen set

3. Estelle Xing

Estelle is a female given name of Latin origin, and means star.

星 (Xīng): star

Yes, her name literally means Star Star.

Emma Xing’s mother. Has rather bad luck. She admits that, although her daughter can drive her up the wall, she is her greatest blessing and happiness.

4. Daniel Ng

Daniel is a masculine given name and a surname of Hebrew origin. It means "God is my judge".

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Ng (pronounced [ŋ̍]; English approximation often /ɪŋ/ or /ɛŋ/) is a Cantonese transliteration of the Chinese surnames 吳/吴 (Mandarin Wú) and 伍 (Mandarin Wǔ). Alternately, it is a common Hokkien transcription of the name 黃/黄 (Pe̍h-ōe-jī: N̂ɡ, Mandarin Huáng).

Emma Xing’s errand boy. And former classmate. The real MVP.

5. Emily Xing

Emily: "rival" or industrious and hardworking, comes from the Latin name Aemilia.

星 (Xīng): star

Emma Xing’s grandmother. Is more techno-savvy than her daughter/Emma’s mother Estelle Xing. Story behind that TBA.

6. Alicia

Alicia means “of noble kind/sort/type” (from Germanic “adal” = noble + “heit” = kind/sort/type).

Emma Xing’s friend from secondary school. They have both narrowly passed Calculus exams together, which cannot be said for all their classmates.

7. John Zheng

The name John is a theophoric name originating from the Hebrew name יוֹחָנָן‎ (Yôḥānān), or in its longer form יְהוֹחָנָן‎ (Yəhôḥānān), meaning "YHWH has been gracious".

战争 (Zhànzhēng): war

Author is now too lazy to come up with a Chinese name, thank you very much.

Author’s Notes

Character profiles will not be written for every single character because ain’t nobody got time for that. They will be updated as the story progresses. If I have the discipline to actually write this dang story. \o/

This is just a test run. I have not truly touched creative writing in a very, very long time, and have sadly lost many different characters and plot bunnies over the years as I never had the will to just put pen to paper, or finger to keyboard. And neither have I ever tried tackling anything this ambitious, if you can call this ambitious. (Well, actually, I did make a pathetic attempt at a novel ten or so years ago, and reading THAT draft just made me cringe and shrivel up and die on the inside. Which will probably happen to this fic in ten years’ time? \o/ )

Oh my gosh, I’m so tired of formatting this now. Please excuse any typos because I just. Cannot.

If you somehow stumbled across this fic and read until the end, bless your heart, bless your eyes, and thank you for reading!

#DSESMSS #Documentation on a Silver Exorcist A Small Medium A Smiling Siren et al.#Documentation #fic #words #writing #my writing #detentio mea #do not copy to another site #don't copy to another site #derp #maya-net

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