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kind-of-crazy-butthatsokay · 1 year

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A different kind of Haunted

Summary: You and your friends visit a haunted house, but what you find is not what you expected.

Pairing: Nomad!Steve Rogers x fem!reader (plus-size)

Warnings: 18+content, self-esteem issues/body image issues, stalking, obsessive behaviour, non-consensual sexual acts, mentions of loss (close family members), breeding kink

Word count: 8.6k (I am incapable of writing short things, forgive me)

A/N: This is my submission for @darkficsyouneveraskedfor's Halloween writing challenge. Bless you for making this challenge open-ended, truly, because I cannot meet deadlines for the life of me. Especially since my inspiration has died in a corner behind my closet and I couldn’t get to its rotting corpse until a few weeks ago. I managed to revive that little shit. It’s... different now but we gotta work with what we got, lol 😂

Anyhow, my prompt was “Your friends dare you to sneak into the old house said to be haunted.”

I interpreted it in a way that may not be what you expect, but I liked the idea so much and I hope y’all like it too! ☺️

...

You blow out a low sigh, eyes tracking the clowd of your warm breath as it hangs in the cold air around you. Your hands are frozen, cold fingers curling around the edges of the book you're holding.

The end of October came with a harsh drop in temperature and to you it feels like nature decided to skip autumn alltogether to dive headlong into the cold, dark winter months.

If it wasn't for the colourful leaves scattering about the cold ground and floating through the air, driven by freezing winds, you could have sworn it is winter already.

You close the book – a rather lenghty novel you couldn't quite get into – and set it down on the bench next to you. Stretching out your legs in front of you, you supress a ywan and glance at the neatly arranged plants decorating the rectangular grave a few feet away from where you sit.

It had taken a while for you to get the hang of maintaining your parents' grave. Your eyes wander over the small, grey headstone that has their names and the dates of their birth and death etched into it. The latter is the same.

The first couple of months you hadn't done much of anything but sit at the grave and cry your eyes out for hours on end, but as time passed, you slowly gathered the shattered pieces of your being and put them back together in a manner that has you functioning more or less.

You did research on how to maintain graves, took walks around the graveyard to get some inspiration from the numerous other graves and eventually settled into properly taking care of the one that was, and still is, your responsibility.

This is the first time you actually planted some things instead of just putting loose flowers or arrangements on the slightly overgrown grave. It was a tedious task, but you still remember the sense of accomplishment you felt when you looked at the neatly groomed grave, long lasting flowers and greens framing the simple headstone.

The nice lady at the flower shop was really helpful with choosing the correct plants. You got a pretty Christmas Rose, an extraordinary kind with pinkish petals instead of the usual white or green, a pink heather, a plant with little red berries on it – gaultheria, you recall the name the florist told you – and a pretty ivy that had nice white edges instead of being fully green like the normal kind.

It's not overly colourful, but the flowers would survive the winter and make sure the grave doesn't look too bleak during the cold months of the year.

You shake your head, pulling yourself out of the reverie you had fallen into and push to your feet with a grunt, stiff legs wobbly under you. The book is stowed away in your backpack and you walk up to the grave, two fingers sweeping along the headstone.

“See you tomorrow, guys. Love you,” you say quietly, the familiar prick of welling tears promting you to quickly turn away and gaze out at the bench before leaving for the day. You will return tomorrow, as you do every day.

You tredge along the same path you always take, tall trees and bushes lining it on both sides. There's a quiet crack in the underbrush to your left, but you know better than to turn around and check for the source.

The first months you were terrified of walking along the quiet paths alone, jerking at every crack or rustle, but with time you learned that there's many a critter living in the hedges or tall trees growing everywhere on the large graveyard.

Birds, squirrels, bunnies, one or the other stray cat and more than a few moles call the graveyard their home and none of them are very threatening.

You keep walking, feet dragging across the path, fallen leaves crunching under the soles of our thick boots. After about five minutes you near the gate and pass it swiftly, stepping out into the street and leaving the eerie quiet of the graveyard behind.

“Guys!” Georgie screeches, wild curls bouncing around her round face as she hops over to the small group of girls standing outside their lecture hall.

The girls turn around to watch their classmate approach. She's holding a piece of paper in one hand, the other is waving at them excitedly. When she stops before them, she's a little out of breath.

“Look what I found! Now we finally have plans for Halloween!” the tall girl exclaims triumphantly and waves the paper in front of their faces. Nika, a short blonde, lets out an irritated huff and snatches the fluttering piece of paper from her friend's hand.

“Gimme that,” she says gruffly, annoyed at Georgie's excitable demeanour. She straightens the slightly crumpled piece of paper out – a flyer – and scans the text printed on the colourful background, obviously Halloween themed.

“A haunted house, really?” Nika snorts and hands the flyer back to Georgie. The tall girl pouts at the other's unenthusiastic response and holds the paper to her chest.

“What? None of you have come up with any good suggestions yet and we're not spending Halloween on Hailee's couch watching horror movies again,” Georgie argues, handing the paper off to Jasmine who is standing next to her.

“Where did you find this, Gigi? I don't think I've heard anyone else talking about this event,” the brunette asks, passing the flyer on to Hailee as you watch on, brows raised and growing increasingly curious about what it says on the flyer.

“The flyer looks real enough, there's even a date on it... Is there a prize or something for doing this? Or is that just one of these haunted houses someone decorated that you can walk through to get spooked?” Hailee ponders, turning the paper over, but finding the back blank.

“I don't know, it doesn't say on the flyer. But whatever it is, I'm sure it beats staying at home and doing nothing. We should go out a little, have fun,” the curly-haired girl shrugs.

“It says to brings warm clothes, snacks and something to sit on,” you state, brows pinching in confusion at the instructions.

“Oh, yeah. Read at the bottom. You're only allowed to go in one at a time. The others have to wait outside. I doubt you guys wanna stand in the cold and freeze your but off. Hence the warm clothes, snacks and something to rest on,” Georgie explains.

You skip to the bottom and read the words confirming what Georgie said. You hum and scan the flyer for the address. When you see it, you make a sound at the back of your throat.

“What is it?” Nika asks, leaning forward to look at the flyer again.

“I know where this is. It's next to the graveyard. The property borders on one side of it, I can see it from where I usually sit. Well, the part of it that peeks over the old fence anyway. That place is old as hell though. I don't know if it's safe to walk around there,” you note.

“If it wasn't safe, then I doubt someone would offer a haunted house tour. For free, too! I guess that means it might not be the most high-quality experience, but we can still have fun,” Georgie says.

“Mh, I suppose so,” Jasmine agrees with a shrug. “I don't have anything better to do anyway. Not planning on going to any of the campus parties, they get out of hand way too quickly. I don't like the rowdy atmosphere.”

“True. We could bring food and drinks. I have an insulated picnic blanket and with a few pillows we could set up camp in front of the house,” Hailee pipes up.

“I have a portable space heater! Don't want to freeze my ass off waiting outside,” Nika adds, still a little reluctant. She doesn't seem too convinced, but if the rest of the group is going to join in on this little venture, she won't say no.

“I can bring my portable speaker. Some music can never hurt,” Georgie says, a wide grin spreading on her face as her friends come around to her idea.

You sigh, still not too sure about this endeavour. The porperty was old, falling apart. And now apparently also 'haunted'.

“Come ooon, don't leave us hanging,” Georgie whines you name. She must've seen undecided expression on your face.

With a roll of your eyes you hand the paper back to her and grumble your agreement.

“Yay! Okay, okay, we'll plan this out later in the group chat yeah? I can make a list of things we need and everyone throws in what they can bring,” the tall girls says, stuffing the flyer back into her bag, already fully entering her planning mode.

You agree together with the other girls, the idea slowly sinking in. You suppose hanging out with your friends is better than holing away in your room to study or binge-watch whatever series catches your attention.

Even if the haunted house turns out to be a fluke, you still have music, food, drinks and your friends. That alone is more than enough for a good time. You'd enjoy it. Getting out of the house will be good for you.

The sky is already dark when you arrive. The soft glow of the few interspersed street lights do little to brighten the dark, eerie street.

The graveyard is located in a quieter area of the city, most houses in the close vicinity run down and abadnoned. No one wants to live anywhere near where the dead are buried.

You walk along the asphalt of the sidewalk, the old path uneven with many cracks in it where the roots of old trees broke through or an especially persistent weed fought its way to the surface.

You can already see your friends, hear them too, when you near the property. They already set up camp, so to say, a few lanterns and the space heater placed around the big blanket that sits in the middle of the overgrown lawn that sprawls in front of the wooden porch at the front of the house.

Georgie calls out your name when she sees you entering through the iron-wrought gate, the old thing creaking in its hinges when you push it open with a huff.

“Hey! You're the last. We've already got everything set up. Come one,” the curly-haired girl says cheerily, patting the free space on the blanket next to her.

You walk over and greet the others before plopping down on the blanket with a groan. Your thick puffer jacket swishes and bunches out around your middle when you sit down, the collar moving higher with the shift. You tilt your chin up and adjust the jacket so it doesn't cover half your face.

“That jacket really isn't flattering,” Nika points out with a half smile, not necessarily mean-spirited, but rather honest in an unfiltered way.

You roll your eyes and try to smooth down the puffed out front with little success. You instinctively try to suck in your stomach and straighten your back, but it doesn't change your appearance much.

“Don't be mean, Nika,” Jasmine interjects, sending you an apologetic smile while elbowing the blonde next to her. “Everyone looks a little round in these things, not only...”

Jasmine trails off, but you still hear the unspoken words floating in the air.

'Not only fat people'

Well, she probably would've phrased it a little more flowery, saying something along the lines of solidly build, chunky, curvy, soft, chubby or plump. Basically anything to avoid the word 'fat'.

You don't mind much. People need to get over the stigma that is connected to the word and you know very well you have a few extra pounds to you.

Most of the time it doesn't bother you too much, having taken the time to try your best and grow comfortable with your body the way it is instead of trying to conform to the propaganda society throws at you every waking hour.

But in moments like this, when someone points out your extra bits so blatantly, the old self-consciousness and shame come crawling back out of the hole you buried them in.

“It keeps me warm and it's comfortable,” you say, shrugging non-commitedly and hoping to move on from the topic before more old demons are stirred up inside you.

“That's what matters, practicality over looks,” Hailee says and points up at her knitted cap. It's green and has two eyes attached to it so the hat resembles a frog. You recall her telling you her grandma had knitted it for her when she was a child. It may be quirky, but it it's warm and comfortable.

“True, true,” Georgie says dimissively and then continues talking. “Anyway, now that we're all here, I suggest one of us should take the lead and get that haunted house experience.” She giggles gleefully, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she eyes her friends.

“The first is always the most exciting! The rest of us can can get started on the drinks and plating up the snacks. I'm starving,” Hailee adds, her green eyes glancing over to the pile of both home-made and bought snacks.

“Well, I guess that means you're going first,” Nika teases and nods at Hailee.

“What? Why me? I wanna eat first,” the girl whines. Nika snorts.

“You're the one who just said the first is the most exciting,” she retorts and then chuckles when she sees Hailee stick out her tongue.

“I don't wanna go first, I'm a crybaby. I need someone to tell me what's happening first or I'll pee my pants and die from a heartattack,” Jasmine declares dramatically, causing the rest of the girls to let out a mix of groans and laughter.

“It's just an old house, I doubt whoever organised what's inside put a lot of effort in,” you say and look up at the house looming over your group.

The windows are boarded up, a few of the shutters hanging only off of one hinge. The light blue paint once covering the wooden fassade is flaking off and the porch is almost overrun by wild growing weeds.

It is intimidating in a way, the sheer size of the slowly rotting building and the desolate windows that look like black maws giving it the typical horror movie feel.

“I don't even know if we're really allowed to be here. Maybe this belongs to someone. We could get in trouble for tresspassing,” you add, the thought only now popping into your head, rousing a whole new collection of concerns that start swirling in your head.

“I doubt it belongs to anyone. There aren't any signs and there was no indicator that said to stay away. The gate wasn't looked either,” Georgie says. “I mean, look at this place. I'm sure no one is missing it or would mind a couple of girls having a good time.”

She gestures at their surroundings and the other girls look around, mumbling their agreement.

You look around, too, taking in the wooden fence to your right. You know the graveyard is behind it. The rest of the property is surrounded by an old wire fence that has more holes than one could count. There is an old wooden shed towards the back of the garden on the left side of the house. The door is boarded up and the roof has a hole in it.

You let your gaze drift farther. Beyond the wire fence is a beaten path that leads past the property you and your friends reside on. You can barely make out a crumbling brick building on the other side of the path, this neighbouring building not looking any better than the one you are supposed to set foot in.

“I guess,” you agree reluctantly and shrug. Georgie rolls her eyes.

“I think you should go first, spoilsport. You can see for yourself there's nothing bad going on. Just a haunted house,” Georgie says and wiggles her eyebrows at you. You cross your arms.

“Why don't you go first?” you challenge, but Georgie just cackles and wags her finger at you.

“No, no, my friend. You're not getting out of that one. Come up, get your ass up,” she orders, digging her elbow into your side. You hiss and pull away.

“Fine, whatever,” you huff and heave yourself to your feel. Smoothing down your jacket, you make sure your phone is still in the pocket and straighten up fully. “If I die because some rotten floorboards give away under me, you're paying for my funeral.”

The girls laugh and you feel your lips twitch against your will.

“Just step lightly, you klutz. You're not that heavy,” Jasmine jokes and the small smile you wear quickly turns tense.

“Yeah, I guess not.”

There's a short moment of silence before Hailee pipes up.

“Oh! We should all take a selfie when we're inside. An additional challenge of sorts. Whoever gets the best picture in the creepiest setting wins!”

“Great idea, Hailee,” Georgie agrees and then turns to you. “Go on, we'll be waiting for you. You better get a good picture, too. I wanna make a collage with them so we never forget today.”

She shoos you away and you turn on your heel, waving over your shoulder as you walk towards the house. You almost prefer the house over your friends at the moment. They are nice enough, but some remarks are just needlessly rude. They just never seem to see it the way you do, telling you it was a joke or that you're overreacting.

“Get your crap together, this night is supposed to be fun,” you scold yourself and ascend the rickety stairs of the porch. When you approach the door, you see the same flyer Georgie showed the group a couple of days ago pinned to the brittle wood.

Pushing away any further hesitancy, you push down the handle and open the door. You can hear the girls shouting behind you, wishing you good luck.

You don't turn around, just step forward and let the door slowly swing back into place with a disturbing creak that echoes in the old house.

You take a deep breath and slowly walk forward, looking for any kind of clue that might tell you in which direction to go first. But there's nothing, or at least you don't see anything, so you set off towards the closest room.

It turns out to be a living room. The furniture is old, upholstery rotting and wood hollow from time. The floorboards groan under your feet, scattered paper and debris crunching under your boots. A stiff breeze rattles the windows and the entire house groans eerily.

You swallow hardly. There's nothing actually scary going on yet, no jumpscares or mysterious silhouettes in corners. And still, your fear mounts with every passing minute.

You don't like this anymore and you find yourself longing for some company. Going in alone was stupid. You should've just ignored the rule and went in teams.

Because now you are all allone in an old, creepy house, the rotten smell of decaying wood in the air and your mind playing tricks on you by making every shadow or foreign form out to be a creature waiting to bring your demise.

Whirling around, you quickly walk back out of the living room and enter the hallway you came from. Maybe you should just go back outside and pretend to having finsihed the tour.

You shake your head. They wouldn't buy it, you've barely been in here for five minutes.

As you stand and ponder over your options, still wincing at every unexpected sound or moving shadow, a flicker at the edge of your vision catches your attention.

You pivot and face the set of stairs leading to the first floor. There it is. A weak flicker dances across the wall at the end of the stairs. It's warm and unsteady, reminding you of a candle.

Your gaze sweeps along the other doors that lead away from the hallway and into more unknown rooms, then back to the flicker upstairs.

“Let's just get this over with,” you whisper to yourself, the sound of your voice loud and at odds with the symphony of creaks, groans and clattering that echoes through the house.

You head towards the stairs and start climbing them, one hand firmly on the rail should you slip or the wood give away. If you go upstairs now you'll be done quicker. You'll just have a quick look around, try to find a location for the picture and then leave. Easy peasy.

The stairs grown under your weight and you reach up to wipe your damp forehead, the skin wet from fear and worry. This whole haunted house thing is putting you through the ringer in a way you couldn't have antcipated.

Grumbling at your own silliness, you finally reach the top of the stairs. The light is brighter now and you look down both sides of the hallway. The flickering is coming from your left so you head in that direction, your heart pounding in your chest and a cold sweat breaking out along your back and under your pits.

'Maybe it's just some homeless people,' you think, your sweaty hands clutching at the phone you retrieved from your pocket once you reached the top of the stairs.

'Or a trick from the person who arranged this... It's nothing scary, nothing real. Stay calm.'

Tiptoeing towards the source of the light – a slightly ajar door at the end of the corridor – you try to measure your breaths. Every loud creak your steps cause make you wince.

“This is so stupid,” you breathe out. “Get your shit together.”

The door is right in front of you now and you take a few breaths, hyping yourself up and gathering enough courage to push the door open.

The wooden door moves ever so slightly under the gentle push of your fingertips and to your relief this particular door doesn't screech noisily. In fact, it glides open rather smoothly.

You peek around the wood, hands holding your phone to hard you're almost afraid the screen is gonna crack.

What you see is not at all what you expected.

The room, unlike every other part of the house you saw, is clean. There's no debris or paper littering the floor and the furniture looks old, but well kept. Like someone made the effort to patch it up and keep it in shape so it doesn't rot away like the rest of the furniture in the house.

“What the hell,” you mutter, pushing the door all the way open and straightening up.

A bed comes into view. The metal frame is a little rusty, but the mattress and everything on it looks new. This room lookes like someone's been living in it and while the house's dilaptidation couldn't be hidden entirely, it still looks decent.

The next strange thing are the candles lit everwhere, the source of the flickering you saw from downstairs. They are scattered across the floor around the bed, one candle is placed on each bedside table and a few more are placed on the other surfaces in the room.

Your eyes wander over the bizarre scene and you briefly throw a glance over your shoulder before stepping inside the room.

A window comes into view, embedded into the wall to your left. In front of it stands a wooden chair, a thing cushion placed on the seat. It's placed in a way to makes it seem like whoever put it there sat down on it to look outside. On the window sill sits a pair of binoculars.

Curious, but no less scared, you appraoch the chair and stand behind it to see what view would warrant the binoculars. You bend down a little and peer through the window and out into the dark.

It's hard to see outside, what with the candles inside the room reflecting off the window and the darkness of the night. Fortunately, the moon decided to shine in all it's glory that night, chasing away some of the impenetrable darkness.

“What...” you mumble, eyes honing in on the view.

The window faces the graveyard. It takes you a moment to realise it and when you do, you glance away from the view to look at the binoculars sitting on the sill. What on earth would a person be watching on a graveyard?

You carefully reach for the binoculars, another glance over your shoulder ensuring your solitude before you pick them up. As soon as you lift them from their place, you freeze.

Underneath the pair of clunky binoculars sits a sketch pad. The drawing on the first page is dark, drawn with coal by the looks of it. But that isn't what makes you halt your actions. It's the motive that chills you to the bone.

It's you, sitting on the bench by your parents' grave with a book in hand, your backpack sitting by your feet.

Dropping the binoculars, you hastily scurry away from the window. Your heartbeat picks up again, the organ thundering inside your chest, beating against your ribs frantically.

“What the fuck, what the fuck, what the fuck,” you whisper, your sweaty fingers losing their grip on your phone. It clatters to the floor.

“Do you like it?”

You choke on a scream and jump. You heave out a cough and clumsily whirl around, feet twisting beneath you and making you stumble.

“Careful, sweetheart. You're gonna hurt yourself.”

A man steps past the threshold, his frame filling out the doorway as he ducks through and comes closer.

You want to scream, but you're still coughing up your spit, one hand pressed to you heaving chest as you back away from the approaching man.

His features are lit by the flickering candles, his huge body throwing an even bigger shadow against the wall. He raises his hands towards you and you finally manage to choke out a croaky screech.

“Hey, hey! That's not the reaction I was expecting, sweetheart,” the man scolds.

You try to make a run for it, your shaky legs compelling you to run, hide, get away from whoever this man, this stalker is.

Your efforts are quickly put to an end. The hulking giant of a man flings a thick arm out and catches you around the middle, yanking you back and cutting off your escape route.

You start to thrash immediately, your mouth opening to let out another scream. But before the sound can leave your lips and alert your waiting friends, the man's big hand clamps over your lips, sucessfully muffling the sound behind his huge palm.

Using his grip on both your face and midsection, he hauls your wriggling body against his, your back pressed to his broad chest. He meanly digs fingers into your face and you whimper, whipping your head side to side to try and dislodge his painful grip.

“I suggest you calm down, sweetheart. This is supposed to be a happy occasion. Can't have you ruining it with your hysterics,” the growls lowly, the sound of his voice rumbling against your back.

You shake helplessly in his arms, tears of pure terror welling in your eyes as you keep thrashing in this stranger's hold. Your breath comes in choppy pants your panic threatens to swallow you hole and you kick your legs out uselessly.

In a short moment of clarity, you lift your legs and drop your entire weight down, hoping to dislodge the tight grip the stranger has on you, but he doesn't budge. Not as much as a grunt comes from him as you let your limp body hang from his arms.

He lets out a chuckle, dark and condescending, and squeezes your middle until you wheeze.

“You gotta try a little harder than that if you want to break my hold. Not that you could, but I suppose it is a valiant effort,” he says, a mocking tone to his voice. His hold loosens around you and you suck in a deep breath now that you ribs are no longer constricted by his iron grip.

“It's not a fair fight, you see,” he continues, shifting his grip from your middle to swiftly gather your wrists in one big hand, bending your arms and holding them still against your chest. “I could hold you down with two of my fingers and you wouldn't be able to get away.”

He twists your around, his hand still holding yours captive against your chest, but his other leaves your mouth in favour of framing your vulnerable neck.

You owlishly blink up at him, your muscles trembling with the adrenaline cursing through them, tears gathering along the rim of your eyes. Your jaw is clenched shut, lips pressed into a thin line.

“Such a scared little bunny,” the man coos, his thumb stroking along the soft skin of your throat. “This isn't quite how I imagined this to go, but we'll make the best of it, hm?”

“What do you want from me?” you burst out, your jaw unclenching long enough to let the question snap out. You tug at your hands and try to take a step back, but the hand at your throat tightens to keep you in place and you sputter, quick to stop your movement.

“It's not about what I want from you, but what I can give you, bunny girl,” he says, shifting his stance slightly. The flames of a few candles close to you light up his face for the first time since he stepped foot inside this room and you see the sick smile stretching his lips behind the thick beard covering the lower half of his face.

Your eyes jump over his features, taking in the beard, the shape of his jaw, his nose and his eyes... His eyes, dark with wide-blown pupils that only leave a sliver of his irises visible. You can't make out their colour in the dim light, but you still recognise him.

A whole new kind of terror sweeps through you and you unwittingly start to pull at your wrists, fighting to escape his grip, his surprisingly strong grip. Not so surprising anymore now.

“Oh, the penny has dropped,” the man snickers, flicking his head to the side briefly to shake a strand of his grown out hair away from his eyes. It used to be short. And his face was always shaven clean.

“You see, being on the run is quite the tiresome task, sweetheart. Moving from one location to the other, avoiding the authorities, hiding in the shadows. It gets lonely, you know.”

He yanks on your arms and tightens his grip on your throat. He walks you towards the bed, pushing until you sink down on it, legs dangling over the side.

“I've been hiding out here for a while now. Months, to be more specific. It's bleak, boring. But I found something to entertain me. A little bunny that hops by my window every day and sits pretty just for my eyes to see.”

He's been watching you. America's hero, fallen from grace and now off the deep end too, has been stalking you, eyes following you when you sat unsuspectingly, visiting your passed parents, seeking out their lost affection, their comforting presence.

You feel sick, the terror knotting in your stomach as you struggle to breathe through the tight grip Steve Rogers has on your throat.

It really isn't a fair faight. He could snap your neck without blinking and you can't even get him to let go of your hands. Hands that he is holding with only one of his.

“You're lonely, too. So alone, no family left now that mommy and daddy are gone. But you're a good daughter, still. Visiting them, taking care of their grave. So good with your hands, sweetheart. The grave looks beautiful with those plants you picked out,” the Soldier croons, looking down at you with an adoring expression that makes you heart drop somewhere in the vicinity of your knees. He really is mad.

“Don't- Don't talk about my parents you freak,” you manage to squeak, a wheezing sound what with your limited ability to breathe.

“Mind your manners, bunny. I don't appreciate being cursed at. I made all this for you, as a surprise. To make our first time special,” Steve grits out, giving you a shove that sends you bouncing against the mattress.

His hands are finally off your body and you use the opportunity to crawl away from him, huddling on the other side of the mattress while catching your breath. Your throat throbs from his harsh grip.

Steve walks over to the door and closes it, then he turns around to face the bed.

“You need me, sweetheart. You just don't know it yet. I can give you everything you need, everything you lost. I lost a lot of things too. We can be good for each other,” he explains, his face shockingly genuine.

You can't believe what you're hearing. This man is bonkers. He lost his mind. You don't even know him outside his famous Soldier persona. He's a wanted war criminal. And yet here he stands, claiming to know you, speaking about whatever delusion he's crafted in that sick head of his.

'A wanted war criminal that has set his sights on me. Just my luck.'

“Don't look at me like that. I'm not gonna hurt you,” Steve declares and then strides over towards the bed. As he moves closer, he smoothly strips off the thick sweater he's wearing, then the black tank top underneath.

You just stare, frozen in shock. Your mind is reeling, muscles locked in a cowering position.

His thick, muscular chest comes into view, a layer of dark hair covering the taut muscle. Imaptiently toeing off his boots, Steve leans on the bed. Once they're off, he fully climbs onto the mattress, the soft material dipping beneath his weight and jostling you from your stupor.

“No!” you shout and launch off the bed, but not fast enough. A strong hand latches around your ankle, dragging your upper body back up on the back and towards him.

“No, no, no! Let me go, HE-”

A harsh slap whips your head to the side. Your ears ring with the force of it, the ceiling swimming before your eyes for a solid thirty seconds before you can focus enough to work through what just happened.

Steve is straddling your thighs, his teeth bared when he reaches the collar of your puffer jacket and rents the fabric down the middle, busting the zipper and tearing the dark material.

You cry out again. The side of your face throbs and Steve's rough handling hurts your arms, but you can't do much to deter him as he rips the jacket down your arms and then pulls it out from under you to discard it on the floor. Your pullover suffers the same fate, your bra swiftly following suit.

You start to cry, the severity of the situation finally dawning on you. Shaky arms try to cover your exposed chest, but the blonde man above you growls, slapping the weak limbs to the side and reaching out to cup the soft flesh in his calloused hands.

“So pretty, bunny,” he groans, kneading your chest and stroking your nipples. The sensitive peaks pebble in the cold air and from his incessant ministrations.

“Stop, stop, please,” you exclaim tearily, hands hitting at his arms and shoulders, your legs kicking aimlessly behind him.

“You'll be crying for me to touch you soon enough,” Steve says gruffly and rises from his perch on your thighs to flip you onto your stomach. He turns around, settling his weight on your lower back until you squeal in pain.

His hands reach for your jeans and he begins to roughly pull them down, taking your panties with them as he shoves them over the curve of your ass, the fabric scratching you roughly in the process. He wrestles your shoes off and in a matter of seconds you're left completely bare beneath his strong body.

Steve's hands crawl across the backs of your thighs, easily dodging you swinging calves, and then moves up to slap your ass, a delighted grunt coming from him when he watches your flesh jiggle.

“What a nice piece of ass. Love me a girl with some extra on her,” he says, greedily squeezing you bum and thighs.

You grimace at his words, a sob lodging in your throat. Your tears overflow as you're groped and prodded like a piece of meat.

“Please, please, let me go,” you quaver, but your pleas fall on deaf ears. Steve is intent on getting from you what he wants and there's no stopping him.

You let out a weak shout when he finally lifts himself off you back and turns you back around to face him. He's swift to push you further onto the bed and away from the edge of the mattress.

Your limbs start to flail, but he wrestles his way between your legs before you have a real chance to get away.

“Not going anywhere, sweet girl. You're mine,” the former hero rasps. He rests a hand next to your head, partially leaning his weight on you as his other reaches down to pull off his own pants and underwear. He kicks both off the bed, all the while pinning you down with just his torso.

You can feel the hot length of him touching your chilled skin. Every inch of his bare body touching yours sends a wretched shiver through you. You want to throw up, scream, cry. And most of all do you want him off of you. You don't want any part of him touching you, you don't want him looking at you, breathing in your face and cooing false promises. You want none of it.

In a last valaint effort you gather all your strength and start to thrash underneath him. You pull your legs up to your chest and kick out, hitting him on the shoulder before he can duck out of the way.

He raises one arm to shield his face and you take the opening, rolling to the side where his arm is no longer caging you in.

A feral growl rips through the burly man's chest as you slip off the bed. He lifts himself to his knees and lauches forward, just catching you elbow in his grip and yanking harshly.

You exclaim and stumble backwards, thrown off-kilter by the sudden pull. Steve doesn't hesitate to use your unsteady stance and brings you back towards the bed, his long arms wrapping securely around your body and dragging you onto the mattress.

“You'll learn to love it, you'll see. This is what you need!” the blond man barks, frustration bleeding into his features at your ongoing struggle.

Discarding any caution or gentleness, Steve wrestles you onto your side and spoons you from behind. His hard body molds against you back, one of his strong legs shoving between yours. He claps one hand over your mouth, muffling your protests. His other arm wraps around your middle, leaving you completely immobilised.

The only sounds audible in the candle-lit room are your heavy breaths and muffled whimpers. Tears still leak out of your eyes, drawing wet paths over your hot face.

“Hush, bunny. You'll enjoy this just as much as I will,” Steve promises gravelly. The arm around your middle shifts, calloused fingers finding your breasts. He pinches and strokes, giving the flesh the occasional squeeze as he explores you to his hearts content.

“You're perfect,” he grumbles, his lips seeking out your bared throat and pressing a chain of wet, prickly kisses to the sensitive skin.

You can do nothing but endure his touch, muscles still trembling but not fighting. You know it's no use. He's too strong, too big and fast. You'll never get away. If you let him, maybe he won't hurt you.

A tingle stirs deep in your belly when Steve gropes down your body, appreciatively squeezing every soft roll and dip along your side before slipping close to your core.

You tense, a loud whimper vibrating against the palm across you mouth. Steve just shushes you and shifts the leg he has lodged between yours, lifting it to open you up to him. Your soft thigh tenses against his firm, sinewy one, trying to force it back down to hide your most intimate parts from him, but it is no use. He's stronger than you.

“No hiding, bunny,” the Soldier grumbles, nipping your throat and making you squeak at the pain.

His hand reaches the curls on your mound, fingers continuing to dip lower until he reaches the petals of your sex. His middle finger seeks out your bundle of nerves with expert precision, lightly pressing on it and chuckling when you twitch against him.

He toys with the botton for a few moments before sliding lower, using his fingers to part your sticky lips and circle your entrance.

You're ashamed at the wetness gathered between your legs. It's not much, but it's there and you cringe at the feeling of the man's fingers dipping into it teasingly. A sad croak fights its way past your lips and Steve pats your pussy playfully, telling you not to be embarassed. It only heightens your shame.

“Your body knows what it needs, sweetheart. Getting slick for me, what a sweet pussy,” he sighs, the earlier tension gone from his voice.

You groan when Steve plunges a finger past your entrance without a warning, wriggling the thick digit around and pulling it out just to add a second one. He fucks you with his fingers, his thumb teasing your clit as he draws out your unwanted pleasure.

The tingle in your belly sparks into a flame and you helplessly wriggle in Steve's arms as the pleasure forced upon you mounts with every stroke of his fingers against you walls.

Small, unwanted sounds spill from you, little pants and whines sounding past the barrier of Steve's hand.

When the man crooks his fingers, shifting your legs further apart before plunging the digits back into your increasingly wet cunt, your back arches with a squeal. Steve laughs gravelly and does it again, keeping up the motion of his hand.

You moan, tears squeezing past your tightly shut eyes as the wicked man massages your g-spot with unrelenting fingers. The action has you senseless. No one but you has ever managed to find this little place, much less work it with such precision.

Your body tenses, legs thrashing and arms aimlessly waving around while the pleasure mounts dangerously fast, winding your muscles tighter and tighter until you're ready to snap.

Steve rescinds the hand from your mouth, damp palm touching your hand when he gathers the flapping limb in his and intertwines your fingers in a sick gesture of intimacy. But the mounting pleasure inside you has you too distracted to fight it, so you let him hold your hand, your other one clinging to the duvet that is crumpled beneath your bodies.

“Come on, cum for me. I know you want to, your little pussy is squeezing my fingers,” Steve husks, chuckling at your senseless whines and gasps.

His thumb presses against your throbbing clit and with a few more strokes of his fingers, you fall apart.

“Yes! That's it, good girl, keep going,” Steve praises throatily, his hips bucking slightly against you lower back as you tremble in his arms, overcome by the most intense orgasm of your life.

It washes over you in waves and you're left boneless by the time the last of them passes over you. Your chest heaves, sweat dotting your brow.

Your mind is still reeling from the sensations you just experienced at the hands of this madman and you can do nothing but lie there limply when Steve shuffles away from you. You flop onto your back, your trembling thighs pressing together.

They don't stay like that for long, the blond's big hands prying them apart effortlessly. Not that you put up much of a fight.

He kneels between your legs and his hand reaches down to stroke his flushed and angry looking length, a few drops of precum bubbling from the tip.

He groans needily and adjusts his position, lining himself up to your glistening, puffy pussy.

You mewl pathetically, legs kicking weakly at either side of his hips when you feel the head of his cock nudging your folds apart.

“No...” you beg quietly, hands coming up to push at him. Steve wordlessly gathers your wrists in one hand and holds them against his chest. Your palm rests flat against his firm muscle and he leans over you just a bit, his free hand grabbing your thigh just above your knee and opening you up to his view.

He looks at your face when he tilts his hips and slides inside just a bit, marvelling at the scrunched up expression you wear.

He's big and the stretch burns despite his slow pace.

You whine low in your throat, the fingers resting against Steve's chest pushing at him, nails digging into his skin. He hisses at the sting but keeps pressing on.

“It hurts, please. You won't fit,” you cry out at last, hips twisting from side to side to dislodge him. Steve only tsks at your squirming and pulls back a little just to press forward again, inserting another inch into your spasming pussy.

“I'll fit, bunny. Don't you worry,” he grunts, letting go of your thigh to wipe away the tears rolling down your temples.

You grimace when he slides in even deeper, carving out a space for himself in your body, molding you to his shape. When Steve turns his hand to cup your face, you find yourself leaning into it, seeking comfort from the pain, the fear. Too bad that he's the source of it.

With a last jerk of his hips, Steve's entire length disappears into your straining pussy and you exclaim when you feel his hips resting against yours. He lets go of your hands and moves to grab both your legs, pressing them apart and up.

You feel horribly exposed to his hungry gaze, cringing at the way he stares between your legs when he pulls back and pushes back into you.

Every move of his hips forces a strangled sound from you, your chest bouncing with his still rather tame thrusts. He's savouring it, every push and pull through your quivering flesh.

“Fuck, you feel so good,” Steve grunts, his groans and pants mingling with your squeaks and wheezes. His face is flushed, plump bottom lip caught between his white teeth.

He lets go of your legs after a few minutes of measured thrusting, dropping his upper body over yours. His cock slides out of you when he shifts and you whimper, your thighs immediately moving to close. But Steve's thick waist is in the way, so you endure the throbbing that pulses between your legs.

Steve settles above you, his hips cradled between your legs, strong arms to either side of your head. He briefly shifts his weight to reach down and line himself up again before pushing back inside with a throaty groan.

“Yes... what a good bunny you are, taking me so well,” he moans, his hot breath washing over your face. His hips move, finding a new rhythm and a new angle, one that has you seeing starts.

“Oh, oh... hngh,” you squeal out, hands reaching up to clutch at Steve's shoulders. “Fuck, oh.”

The man above you grunts his approval, keeping up his motion to hit your spot again and again, the tip of his erection sliding across with with every retreat and advance.

“There you go, doesn't that feel good? I told you I would make you feel good,” he growls, speeding up his thrusts and giving you no respite.

You babble, hands slipping along the Soldier's arms, unable to hold on to anything for long while he fucks you senseless with his sharp, angled thrusts. The fire in your belly ignites again, burning brighter with every stroke.

“Mh, fuck you're gonna make me cum,” Steve pants. His face is scrunched up, mouth hanging open as he revels in the feel of your wet, hot pussy clenching around him.

He leans to the side and reaches down, pressing his fingers along your slipper cunt, seeking out your clit and rubbing it earnestly.

You keen, back arching off the bed. It doesn't take more than a few rubs to make you come, your clit pulsing under his fingerpads as he keeps hammering away at your g-spot.

You let out a loud, gravelly moan, the sound quickly breaking off into a high-pitched whine when your pleasure peaks, a pressure unlike any you've felt before building in your belly and releasing with one last well-placed thrust.

You squirt all over Steve's cock, his pelvis and yours drenched in your cum as you shake pathetically underneath him, you hands slapping the mattress.

“Good fucking girl,” Steve growls, his eyes rolling back in his head when he feels you squirt over him, your walls bearing down on him as you tremble through your orgasm. “Fuck, you're perfect.”

He rescinds his hand from your overstimulated clit and drops down to his underarms above you, his hips bucking desperately against you.

You vaguely feel Steve's cock throb and twitch inside, followed by a primal groan above you.

The big man shakes with the force of his orgasm, unfiltered sounds rumbling from him as he paints your insides with his seed, pulse after pulse of it surging into you.

You moan weakly at the warm sensation of his spend, too tired and fucked out to listen to the alarm bells going off in the back your head at his actions.

Once Steve stops shaking, he lifts his sweaty face and presses a kiss to your forehead.

“You may have lost your family, but we can make a new one together. You will never be alone again, sweetheart. Neither of us will be.”

Your eyes snap open, your sluggish thoughts clearing in seconds as you stare up at the former hero, pinned beneath his thick body after he took you against your will and came inside you without any form of protection.

“You'll make a good mother.”

His eyes meet your wide ones, a wicked smirk curling his mouth.

“No,” you breathe out, hands lifting and pushing at his chest, body squirming desperately to dislodge his cock still nestled inside you.

“Yes,” Steve hisses, snapping his hips against yours and wriggling them from left to right, letting you feel every inch of his rapidly hardening length. He does it again, cutting off the sob rattling in your chest and replacing it with a choked moan.

His hands wipe at your tears and he coos at you, shushing your sad, terrified sobs as he keeps working his hips against yours.

“You'll love it, trust me. I will take such good care of you.”

...

Ooooop, that was quite the wild ride 😆 I wrote this monster in one sitting and I did not proofread a single sentence. I cannot bring myself to care. Y’all are supposed to enjoy the story, not my immaculate spelling, lol 😳 (it’s not immaculate, it really isnt. And don’t get me started on punctuation...)

Anyhow, let me know what you think! Feedback and reblogs are always appreciated! 🖤

#Chris Evans #Steve Rogers #nomad!steve #soft!dark Steve #steve rogers x reader #writing challenge #theimaginesyouneveraskedfor #one-shot

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fredandginger64 · 5 months

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Dean says " telling what I really think of my partner is a hazardous chore. Our partnership in many ways is like a marriage. I dare say we have spent more time together than most married couples do. On the road together while we were mainly doing nightclubs we even roomed together most of the time. We never had a difference of opinion that we couldn't resolve ourselves and very quickly. Indeed, until a bunch of outsiders got into the act, we never had a problem we couldn't resolve by sundown. As a gag sometimes I say that it seems like we've been together 15 years but it's actually 5. Psychologists will tell you the first 10 years of a marriage are the toughest. It's the same with a creative partnership such as ours.

"I don't want to sound stuffy yet in some ways our relationship has been a far greater trial than the usual blending of abilities and efforts towards a common goal. We've worked under continuous pressure and a never ending sussession of deadlines. This sort of thing can try the patience of an angel and you won't see either of us wearing wings. We've matured to the point where we realize no two humans see exactly alike but this need not break up the family. In fact Jerry and I both feel that if either of us had to sacrifice our individuality, the team would suffer irreparable damage. What makes it spark and create the kind of entertainment that our particular public buys is a blending of two divergent personalities. We're not twins identical in temperament and backgrounds- we're "Pardners" which is the name of our new film. Of course I think Jerry works too hard but he doesn't think so, not even when he's so tired he can't see straight. I think he is too generous with material. His clowning on the set, at home or the golf course is frequently more amusing than many specially written acts written and produced in plush cabarets. He's wide open to ideas and appreciates the little things as much as the big ones. He loves everything he does-thats why he insists on working with the writers on our show and our films. That's why every little detail concerns him, every decimal point in a film budget, every curl on an extras' hair. People ask if it's true if Jerry makes most of our decisions concerning our careers. Jerry would be the first to explain that a team needs a spokesman and he frequently speaks for the both of us- but only after we have consulted with each other and thrashed things out. Professionally we think so much alike and our interests are so mutual and I trust him explicitly. Jerry will on day be a highly successful producer if he wants to. He has great executive talent and an inquisitiveness that would get a cat in trouble. His is sensitive yet he can take a joke. I remember when we were playing the Copacabana in New York City. We went out to dinner and got back late, barely in time to dress for the show. We got into our tuxedos in a hurry and could hear the band playing our introductory music. I slipped into my shoes and was halfway out the door yelling for Jerry to hurry. But he couldn't. There he sat, slipping his feet into his patent leather shoes but unable to move them off the floor. No wonder, I had nailed them down as a gag. So he went on in his tuxedo and socks. But he got me back later on. It was my wife's birthday so Jerry sent her a mink coat in my name. Naturally he charged it to me. How was he to know I had already bought her a mink coat that day

--------------------–-------------------

"Until a bunch of outsiders got into the act"

I hope this helps @judy1926

If you need any more help please let me know.

#martin and lewis #partners #they loved each other

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workingmomsofsanantonio · 1 month

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Beyond Busy: The Art of Time Management for Working Moms

Beyond Busy: The Art Of Time Management For Working Moms Time Management Tips

Jan 15, 2024

If you often find yourself caught in the whirlwind of managing work, family, and everything in between, you're definitely not alone. I get it—the juggling act of being a working mom is no small feat. But fear not, because today, I’m diving into the world of time management. Let's uncover some small, totally doable techniques to help you reclaim control of your schedule and make the most out of every precious moment!

The Art of Time Management

Time management isn't about fitting more into your day; it's about making the most of the time you have. It's a skill that, once mastered, can transform the chaos into a well-orchestrated symphony. Start by acknowledging that you are an amazing working mom managing multiple roles, and you deserve a strategy that works for you.

Creating Daily and Weekly Schedules

Get that planner ready (oh man, this is my favorite part), because we're diving into the nitty-gritty of scheduling. Begin by outlining your priorities for the day and week. Assign specific time blocks for work tasks, family time, self-care, and those unexpected mom duties. Having a visual roadmap can be a huge when it comes to time management, and if it makes it into the planner, you're so much more likely to commit to getting it done!

Setting Priorities and Goals

Prioritization is key. Identify the tasks that truly matter and most importantly, the ones that align with your goals. Whether it's a work deadline, a school event, or your much-needed 'me' time, knowing your priorities helps you allocate time where it matters most!

Delegating Tasks

Meet your sidekick—delegation. If you’re anything like me, it may be a struggle to admit this, but it's okay not to do it all! It’s important to delegate tasks at work and home, whether it's assigning chores to the kids or partnering with a colleague on a project. Remember, you're not relinquishing control; you're smartly distributing the workload, and hopefully acknowledging other’s strengths in the process!

Overcoming Procrastination

Procrastination is the arch-nemesis of productivity. Kick it to the curb by breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Set super realistic deadlines and reward yourself when you achieve them. Small victories pave the way for significant accomplishments!

Pro-Tip: When you make a to-do list, put everything on there—big or small! There’s something so satisfying about checking things off that list, even if it’s something as small as making your bed, and it will help motivate you to tackle the bigger, less desirable tasks!

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Moms

Let's talk about efficiency hacks. Embrace technology—use apps for grocery shopping, meal planning, and task management. Batch similar tasks together, like responding to emails or tackling household chores. And yes, saying 'no' is a powerful time-saving tool...a good friend of mine recently reminded me that “no” is, in fact, a complete sentence and can be used as such! It really is about preserving your energy for what truly matters!

Remember, time management is a journey, not a destination…and it will help you craft a life that aligns with your values and goals. Embrace the process, be kind to yourself, and celebrate the victories, big or small. You've got this, and I’m here cheering you on every step of the way!

About the Author:

Erika Radis is a Co-Founder of Working Moms of San Antonio. She is a real estate agent, graphic designer, podcaster, office supply enthusiast (is there anything better in this world than a good pen?)and San Antonio area Working Mom. She has owned and run her own businesses for the last decade, all while raising her 3 daughters and enjoys providing valuable resources for Working Moms in the San Antonio area! You can follow Erika on Instagram or on Facebook.

www.workingmomsofsanantonio.com

#working moms #entrepreneur #business #networking #blog #san antonio #time mamagement #satxlocals #satx #follow #instagram #facebook

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dmwrites · 2 years

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Chapter 8- The End

Ch.1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7

——

The condition of the earth had worsened in the short time they were inside, somehow. Xisuma hasn’t been lying about the raining backwards thing- there were now distinct holes in the ground where blocks had once been, and said blocks were not coming back down anymore.

“Holy shit.” Cleo exclaimed, and a grass block flew up right past her face. “Holy shit!”

“There has to be a way to get you out of here.” Joe was leading the way back to the castle, walking fast.

“Absolutely not.” Michael said firmly, making both of them turn to look at him incredulously. “It’s like a sign from the universe or something. I said I’m not leaving you, and I really mean it.”

“Michael, this is no time to be a martyr!” Joe cried, raising his hands in exasperation. “You don’t belong here! You were only supposed to come and try to help, and then leave! You’re supposed to just be a guest!”

“But I failed.” Michael whispered. “The moon is coming, and there’s nothing that can be done to stop it from coming or me from staying. It’s the twelfth hour now, guys, and it’s time to accept it. Whatever happens next, we’re going together.”

Just then, there was a message in the chat.

<mumbojumbo: hermit meeting at spawn in twenty minutes, come if you are still around>

“Why the hell do they think now’s a good time for a meeting?” Cleo griped. “What, are we gonna be indecisive about the moon or something?”

“I mean it get it, since it feels like the last hurrah- as for spawn town, I don’t-” Joe suddenly stopped dead, frozen with one leg off the ground kind of comically, mouth open.

“What is it, Joe?” Cleo asked, stopping too.

“Spawn… tell me, Michael, where is your spawn set right now?” Joe put down his foot and looked right into Michael’s eyes.

“Uh, I think in the tavern. Why?” Michael asked.

“And if you died, you would respawn there, assumedly, correct?”

“Yeah…”

Joe began to pace. “But what if your spawn anchor was destroyed? You would go to your spawn chunks, right? Would you end up in the Hermitcraft spawn? Or-”

“Or back to the Dream SMP spawn since that’s your real spawn!” Cleo gasped. “Oh my god! That’s so convoluted it just might work!”

“What, are you gonna kill me to test it out?” Michael asked, trying to make a joke. It sounded ridiculous to hear them talk in such ways.

Cleo and Joe looked at each other. “The end fountain.” They both said.

“The fucking what?”

<mumbojumbo: meeting in ten minutes>

Joe took Michael’s hand and began to run. “We need to go, now.”

When thinking of apocalypse, there is a certain kind of movie expectation of how it is going to go, how everyone is going to act. This had, for the most part, held true, what with the panicking and the insanity and the general fear. What Michael hadn’t expected was two things. One, how fast the end was coming; the sun had set by the time the three got back to the castle, and the moon seemed to have doubled in size- not only that, but the ground around them was disintegrating so quickly that walking was more of a hopping dance. Two, Michael hadn’t expected the brief reprieve.

Spurred on by Joe and Cleo’s stress, the deadline of the hermit meeting, made Michael, despite his reluctance, run up the stairs of the tavern to his bedroom. He opened the door and slammed it shut, and there it was. The brief reprieve. Michael just breathed for a moment, and it was like everything was alright again. With the curtains on his window shut, and Joe and Cleo at the castle breaking their own beds, it was like he had come back from another night of observing the moon and singing songs around the campfire. With slow, almost defiant movements, Michael reached for the leather jacket he had come here in. He looked around at the rest of his stuff, clothes mostly, strewn about the room, and chuckled. Messy rooms didn’t matter when he was going to die. Because that was just it, wasn’t it? He, Cleo, Joe. They were all going to die. No use taking any clothes with him.

Michael broke his bed as they asked and paused at the door. At the last second he grabbed his journal of moon observations, and closed the door behind him. One way or another, he assumed, he would not be coming back to this cozy tavern.

The End, as Michael would later come to understand, was another dimension, like the nether, which was accessed through a structure called a stronghold. Similar to elytras, the dimension seemed to be something off-limits on the Dream SMP. Not that it looked like an interesting place, really. Pale yellow stone and obsidian pillars and endermen. And the giant portal-looking hole in the ground under a small bedrock structure. That’s about it.

“Guys, I don’t know about this…” Michael said, approaching the portal. “Seems pretty far-fetched, no offense Joe. Maybe we should just go to the meeting.”

“It’s the twelfth hour like you said, Michael. We gotta try this to get you out, at least.” Joe replied.

“I’m not leaving you!” Michael said for probably the tenth time in the past half an hour.

“Like hell you are!” Cleo did something she had never done before- she strode forward and hugged Michael very tight. Michael instinctively put his arms around her. “Michael, you have to go. You were never supposed to stay here, and I’m not going to have you die because of us.”

“You have a way out, Michael. You’ve been nothing but selfless to us, but you need to be selfish now.” Joe joined the hug, and the three sunk to the ground, while blocks rose all around their huddle.

“We’ll go with you to see if you end up at Hermitcraft spawn or not, hold your hands until we can’t anymore. But you have to leave us, if you can.” Cleo whispered into his hair. “We lo-” she stopped herself, clearing her throat instead.

Michael grabbed her hand and squeezed it, and then reached for one of Joe’s. They stood up together and looked at one another, watery smiles on their faces.

“Wait! I meant to give this to you ages ago, but kept forgetting!” Joe suddenly said, letting go of Michael’s hand to dig around in his pockets, and pulled out a CD labeled “Sean Hills sings Joe Hills: volumes I and II”. “It’s all of my songs, sung by my sibling Sean. Maybe you can add it to your music collection.”

The three floated up into the air as Joe handed the CD case to Joe, and they both held onto it until they were dropped again.

“Oh my god, Joe, this is… I’m gonna treasure this.” Michael slipped the CD into an inside pocket of his jacket, right by his heart and next to his journal of moon notes. He let out a long breath. “Okay. I think I’m ready now.” He stepped up to the edge of the end fountain, and he felt Cleo and Joe join him on either side, grasping his hands again. And then, they jumped together.

The end fountain portal is different from other portals. Nether portals are purple and wavy, sickening in their patterns as you travel through them to a reddish hell. But the in-between here was something different entirely. A more fitting ending, if this really was the end.

Michael, Joe, and Cleo were floating in an inky forever, with rainbow flashes of zeros and ones flying over and around them. And they were still here, together, holding hands. Cleo and Joe moved to grasp each other’s hands as well, so they formed a triangle.

“I’m so sorry.” Michael told them. Their faces blurred, and Michael desperately blinked back tears. He didn’t quite know how, but he knew this really was goodbye. It all seemed very real suddenly, in this mysterious, beautiful nothingness.

“Go now!” Cleo said, and she let go of his hand first and cupped his face with her hand momentarily before pulling back, red hair blowing all around her as they floated through whatever space this was. She kept her head high, those green eyes searching his face as if trying to memorize it. A storm of a woman, with a heart of solid gold to match, words forever unspoken stuck in her throat.

“You have everything you need, and one hell of a story, if you choose to tell it.” Joe said. “Goodbye Michael. I hope the music is sweet to you.” And he too let go, tears freely falling under his cartoonish glasses, and redoubling his grip on Cleo’s hand.

There was a sudden static sound so intense that he couldn’t even think, and then, Cleo and Joe were gone, and Michael fell into nothingness.

——

It was a rainy night on the Dream SMP, and Alesa had a chill playlist of songs going on the radio. She had the fireplace roaring, and was doodling mindlessly on the wall.

The scraping of a key in a lock cut through the silence, and Alesa jumped to her feet, running across the small house just in time to see Michael walking through the front door.

“Michael! Holy shit! What the fuck happened to you?”

Michael strode past her in silence, soaking wet, stringy hair a curtain blocking his face, and headed straight for the radio studio.

“Michael?” Alesa closed the door against the storm and followed him into the studio. Michael sat down, and turned to finally look at her, and Alesa was shocked to find tears in eyes that looked like they had aged many years. He then turned his attention to the microphone, lowered the song volume to mute, cleared his throat, unmuted the microphone, and began to speak.

“Creatures, humans, gods, and whoever else is out there in the weird, wide world, it is December twenty-second, and tonight, I’m going to tell you a story. A story of horrors I hope you, dear listeners, will never have to experience. But, really, it is a story of strength, love, and friendship. You may call me a myth-maker, always with the conspiracy theories, but tonight, I promise you that I tell nothing but the truth. Either way, sit back, as I tell you the story of Michael and Joe and Cleo’s super big adventure...” Michael paused, and he smiled just a little bit, “featuring the moon”.

#September 7 2022 #fic #Michael and Joe and Cleo’s super big adventure ft. the moon #michael mcchill #joe hills #zombiecleo #hc8 #hc x dsmp #long post #yoooo it’s done!! hope y’all liked it! i loved writing it!!

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knightyoomyoui · 1 year

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Mina x F Reader - “Brave”

This one might be a bit messy and boring because I literally can't write peacefully here in my home due to so many kinds of interruptions that disturb my imagination while I am writing, so I never had a free time to proofread this since it's a long one-shot plus most of what I put in the main setting of this story was just something I made up on my own.

I was targeting a deadline for me to publish this, which is today because tomorrow would be the start of our face-to-face class; and I'm afraid that I'll start becoming really busy from now on as a freshman. Thankfully, I finally finished this today but sadly like I said, there's no more time for me to edit and check everything I wrote.

Hope y'all still enjoy reading this despite of the errors and lack of additional research.

It was a fine usual morning at the Suganuma Village. Average heat from the sunlight radiating through the surfaces of the houses, stalls and the stone road that was being walked over by a bunch of people doing their own business.

Then there was you who belongs to these crowd of villagers, sitting in front of your wooden cart and under the roof connected near the end of the handle to lessen the heat you'll receive and avoid getting too much irritated and uncomfy at it.

Arranging your set of mangoes and papaya after some were taken out by the customer who bought those to you, another one appears and requested some apples to buy before she inserted it in her basket.

You thanked her nicely and looked around at the people crossing by back and forth when someone made your head stop moving.

Smiling at the sight, you pretended not to stare at the appearance of the young lady you saw; focusing back on your cart while other villagers stepped aside and paved the way as they watched her in awe.

Some continued to walk while you still tried to act oblivious not until you sensed that she's standing in front of you.

You heard the sound of an umbrella being closed. Looking at the source of it, there are two familiar people emerged in your eyes; a man wearing a blue chained and silver plated suit is beside an exceptionally beautiful woman wearing a costly casual school uniform.

"Hi, YN!", she greeted at you; showing off that adorable gummy smile with her little wave. The young man just nodded at you.

"A pleasant day, princess.", you grinned at her then smiled back with a nod also to her right hand man.

"These oranges looks so fresh and neat. Are these newly picked at the farm?", she asked you, holding an orange in her hand as she raised it.

"Yes. The farmers told me earlier, that's why I had to come here early to sell it."

"I'll take 5 of these, please."

"Will do, princess.", her right hand man helped her pick up those oranges to lend to you.

"Yah! You should stop it. I don't even know if you're being sincere or rather teasing me.", Mina said with a slightly sulking tone. You laughed while you're computing the total cost of the oranges mentally as you heard what she said.

"I am saying it with all respect, princess. I know you don't like me calling that if we are close together but mind you, we are in the middle of the public.", you said as you began wrapping the oranges while looking around at the surroundings. "Somebody might hear me addressing you without your rank and report it."

"Yeah, I know but still... I'm not used to it, especially that you're the only citizen here that I allow to call me by my name you know?"

"That will be 150 yen... Mina.", you whispered it to her; giving her ordered fruits in her hand while his right hand man just snorted at your plan B to avoid getting caught.

"I heard it, you're disrespecting the princess. I must have you reported and face your punishment.", he said while crossing his arms after you leaned back.

You glared and casted a weird look at him. "Nice try, Minho. I know you can't do that to me."

Mina nodded and smiled in agreement at you.

"Heh, sorry. I was just kidding.", Minho said. "The princess won't allow me that easy and ofcourse, I know you well now too YN."

"That's why I'm considering myself to be lucky enough to be friends with a royalty and a palace personnel.", you said, admiringly looking at the both of them.

"You deserve it, we knew you are a good person since I found you and he learned about you.", Mina said as she gave you her money as the payment.

"Thanks for the fresh oranges YN, I was going to make this as an orange juice for my lunch later in the class."

"Ohh okay.", you reacted. "Have fun learning in the school, Mina."

"And you too, I hope you sell much today as always.", she said. Minho placed all the oranges to the basket he's carrying.

"Hey! Before we go, can you meet me tomorrow beside the castle?", she requested. "It's going to be weekend, my homeworks are already done so can you join me somewhere?"

"Okay then, what time I'll meet you?"

"Around 1:30 in the afternoon, sounds good?"

"Got it. I'll see you there.", you nodded.

"Your highness, your class is about to start in 20 minutes.", Minho reminded him as he glanced upon the clock tower.

"Okay! We have to go back now, bye YN!"

"Have a nice day princess!", you bowed at her and she patted you in the shoulder while Minho also gestured at you before they made their way out of your sight, walking away from your stall; leaving you alone again and continued to wait for other customers to buy your fruits.

You and Mina are close friends. The two of you met when Mina saw you being surrounded by a group of young boys in the village teaming up to bully you.

It was unnoticeable at first until Mina saw the red flag that there's something wrong going on when one of the boys pushed you, sending your body falling into the ground.

The princess came on the rescue and the boys recognized her immediately, giving them chills around their body as the felt the intimidating power they might face once they try to mess up with the daughter of King Akira and Queen Mashina and the one and only child of the kingdom of Myouis.

So without further do after Mina warned them about hurting you again, they quickly apologized and ran off.

Mina offered you a hand as a support for you to stand back up and you accepted, although the shock in your face can be seen because you didn't expect that the princess herself would be the one to see you being bullied and helpless.

That made her to be shy in front of Mina who's checking up on her.

"Are you okay? Did they hurt you somewhere physically?", she asked you, gripping your right wrist as she stared at you whose trying to avoid her eyes in embarassment.

You didn't answer and Mina understood it. Having a rich and royal personality interacting with a normal young villager would be very sudden to take of.

She smiled knowledgeably and sighed before asking again. "Hey, don't be scared of me please. I literally just saved you from them."

"S-sorry it's just... I can't believe you're here p-princess.", you said, stuttering while looking away from her.

"I was about to go fishing at the river down there when I saw some laughing noises near me. I came here and I saw you here, didn't knew that it was from their teasing.", Mina explained.

"Answer me honestly. Do they bully you often?"

You gulped.

"Y-yes."

"And what do they use against you?"

"T-they said I should stop acting like a boy when in fact I'm a girl. I don't even know why I'm acting or moving like this, I can't help it. This has been within me since birth.", you said, even the way how you spoke to her has some mannerisms of how a boy speaks, especially your look. You have a short black hair almost similar to a normal male haircut.

"They added that I'm just trying to betray my responsibilities of being a villager and a woman in our society. They make me feel like I'm a disgrace in our family.", you said, lowering your head as you are emotionally affected at the painful words they shot at you.

Mina felt sorry for you and instantly cheered you up. She was in disbelief that they were still some other people around here who's ego and attitude is way worst than hers.

"Don't worry, next time they come here; you are free to tell me and I will send my guards to hunt them and send them the punishment they deserve.", Mina assured you, massaging your shoulder.

"You shouldn't mind them now. Whatever it makes you comfortable, don't let anyone prohibit you from it.", she advised and looked at you interestingly.

"Are you perhaps... not seeing yourself as one of us?"

"Beg your pardon, p-princess?", you asked her confusingly.

"A girl or a woman. A straight one specifically, like me. Tell me, if you do have a chance to wear this type of clothing like I'm wearing, would you... like it? Or just tell me by what you see in me, are you liking what you're seeing?"

You began tracing Mina from down to the top. It was going smooth, your eyes are focusingly processing if there was some interest or desire of you to wear these outfits someday but it got all blocked when you reached looking at her face.

Your heart just randomly began pounding rapidly and heat reached up into your face as your eyes matched her face. Her elegant, gorgeous face that you can confidently say that the gods took time to discuss what her look would be.

Because you aren't even sure and just figured out if she's too perfect to be in this world.

You brought down your gaze again as you caught the formation of her hypnotizing grin. That damn smile that you began liking to see over and over again since that day you met her.

"Well?"

"I c-can't make up my mind, yet. I still don't know.", you rubbed up your nape.

"I see. Maybe you're just troubled, and I'll give you time for that ofcourse.", she sweetly smiled and again; your body almost weakened.

"May I know your name?"

"Y-YN."

"Nice to meet you, YN.", she offered you her hand and you took it for a shake. "Stop crying now, this time you won't gonna be like this because I want us to be friends."

You stared at her shockingly, it was unreal for you to realize that the princess herself was even the one to offer an additional acknowledgement to you not only as your princess but now also as your own friend.

Correction: your ONLY friend.

You grew up not having anybody to treat like that because you grown as a very private, silent, shy and mostly helping your family to earn money and buy their needs.

Through the other youngsters like you, it didn't fail for you to wonder what could it feels like to have someone as your ally and close with you aside from your family.

As much as you want to try, your lack of skills on opening a conversation with other is pulling you.

But since you want to change, you want to take this as an opportunity now that you met a very special girl named Mina. You can't risk losing somebody already.

"F-friend?"

"Yes, I can be your friend. YN. Do you want me to be?"

"S-sure."

"If that so then, would you mind joining me on the river. Do you know how to catch fish?"

"N-no."

"Then come with me, I'll teach you how."

Shortly after, your friendship bond with Mina grew larger each days as both of you try to insert some free time for the two of you to have fun together.

-THE NEXT DAY-

Being true to the planned meetup, you waited beside the post near the castle where you finished eating your packed strawberries as you watched people across the village doing their miscellaneous things again.

Glancing at the left, you saw Mina and Minho exiting the castle with the royal guards saluting at them before transitioning back to their steady stances.

Mina found you first and walked right away just as when Minho saw you standing from a distance too.

"Let's go! This will be exciting!", she said enthusiastically as she raised her fists in the air. You looked at Minho if he knows any hint why Mina is this hyped up but you only got a shrug and a purse from her lower lip.

After walking for minutes and took some double turns around the village, you locate yourselves now surpassing from the houses and the people, reaching the open area of Twiceland where all you can see is green and yellowish leaves swaying along the wave of the wind.

Your curiosity arises as you step closer and closer to that end of the path that looks dimmer than everywhere around here.

Even Minho was knitting his eyebrows, clueless at what's going on.

"Princess, what are-"

"Minho, I think it's time for you to go.", Mina rotated her body around, facing her right hand man and stopping her on his way.

"B-but... with all due respect, princess; are you serious? The direction you're-"

"We'll be fine, Minho. I can take it from here with YN.", Mina assured him but still the hesitating Minho isn't done yet.

"You sure, princess? If the king and q-"

"They won't know unless you talk, right? And we both know you won't do it because... even from me, I can be angry at what you did and still... might do something bad about it.", Mina said, flashing her smile that seemed different from both you and Minho's perspective. It looks like she's warning her terrifyingly which is on Minho side; he won't dare not following Mina's request more because he know what the princess can be capable of; worse than her parents.

"Are we talking loud and clear, Minho?

"Okay, y-your highness. Please be safe whatever you two are up into.", Minho said worryingly. Even you are getting tensed now at the way Minho looked uncomfortable at the unpleasant possibilities that might occur.

"We will. Thanks for the concern, Minho. You can go now home and do whatever you want too."

"Thank you, your highness.", Minho bowed and looked at you one more time with a glare that telephatically tells you to guide the lady to safety which you aren't sure enough because both you and him are also scared of what's going on.

Although, still you are willing to do your best. Who knows, there might be a time that she'll need you for her protection and all you have to do is to take the responsibility of it as a friend.

Returning to the current situation, Minho walked away from you and Mina.

"Follow me and let's hurry, we can't stay there until nighttime.", Mina said as she continued walking again. You followed her puzzledly.

"Wait, Mina just... what are we going to do this time?"

"You'll see.", she smirked and proceeded her steps. You sighed in defeat despite the urge of you wanting to know about it right away.

You and Mina finally entered the gap of what it seems like a forest with all the types of trees scattered around the area. There are other who are old, young or even dead; branches were the only ones remained.

Your heartbeats are intensifying as you can't hear anything at the midst of silence except from the sounds of the footsteps you and Mina are creating.

"M-mina..."

"Hmm?"

"Can you tell me what are we going to do e-exactly? I don't mean to offend you b-but... I'm not liking this at all honestly.", you said as you fidget your fingers and body slightly shivering in fear as there was some dark spots around that you and her were just passing through it as if it was nothing.

Mina halted in her steps and so as you.

She saw your face weakened and almost colorless, she's definitely lying to herself if she won't admit that she was softened and felt awful of your frightened state.

She apologetically smiled and what she did next took you aback.

Your hand received a touch from her, grasping and locking it together with her fingers with her thumb rubbing the top of your palm gently.

All of the sudden, you stopped being uneasy.

"You shouldn't be scared at anything YN. Whether what you're doing is you have me there on your side or it's you doing it for me. All you have to do is be brave as you think about us, that's when you know that you'll get through everything.", Mina comforted you with her soft words. "We got each our backs, and we won't let anything that affects us dangerously, right?"

"Y-yeah."

"Then trust me, we're getting closer... and like I said, you're with me. I don't mean no harm at all if it's you, YN. I want you to be safe and happy.", she said before she read the map she's been holding on since you and her entered the forest.

But this time, she was holding it with one hand. The other is placed securingly in your hand, ensuring that you'll be fine because after all... it's Mina.

After a few more minutes of exploring, Mina stopped her tracks and rolled the map.

"We're here."

Mina side glanced at you before her head moved up, directing her eyes next above at the towering large old tree in front of you two.

You were amazed, but still you are confused because what's even special about this tree?

Here's Mina to the save with her information to share with you.

"You probably be wondering what are we doing here, YN.", Mina read your thoughts. "But, this tree has a myth that I read earlier back in my room that led me here in curiosity. And I'm glad that this still exists."

"What does it say?"

Mina opened her pouch and pulled out a pack of seeds inside along with a canister filled with water before closing her belonging again.

"The myth says that if you touch the tree and plant anything in this forest, most recommended if it's just inches away from here; you'll get to find out the right person for you as soon as the sprout of the seed you planted grew.", Mina said.

"How does it connects to the point though?"

"Repaying the love.", Mina simply replied. "As you plant something with respect to this mythical tree, some said that this is the guardian of the forest; that means you're asking permission for you to contribute taking care of the nature he's in charge with."

"So as you plant your seed here, if it grow that means it granted your wish and the only thing he can have in return as a reward is... to find that somebody meant for you that you'll receive the similar amount of love, growth and development that you willingly expressed for the nature.", she explained.

Your mind was left blown away by that logic. "Why, Mina? Are you interested on love these days?"

"I guess I am.", Mina smiled timidly. "I'm just curious if there's somebody who can ready to risk it all to let me know how much he or she loves me."

"He or she?", you furrowed your eyebrows.

"Yeah. I don't care if it's gonna be a man or another woman like me. All I need to be to be feel loved and feel special aside from what my parents gave to me."

As you remained speechless, you saw Mina stepped forward, narrowing her space between the tree.

What she mentioned piqued your curiosity to try it too. Never once crossed in your mind that you'll get to question yourself what is love and what can it bring to you.

You stood beside her and synchronically put your hands together at the rough surface of the tree, lasting for a few seconds before removing away.

"Join me plant these seeds, please."

Who are you not to oblige with the princess' pleads.

You helped Mina dug a hole in the ground and carefully placed the seeds there before covering it back with soil. To finish, you let Mina water it by herself.

"There, it's done!", Mina clapped in glee. "Now we should wait and see what's going to happened next."

"Is there any particular way that you want to encounter the right person for you?", you asked her.

Mina cupped her chin with her fingers as she thinks. "Hmm... I don't know but if I ever get to know his or her feelings to me and I had the same, I'll crush that person with a hug right away in gratitude."

"Good idea.", you agreed. Mina just giggled.

"Let's return now to the village. I believe it's starting to go dark also outside.", Mina then wore her pouch on her back and followed her as both of you walked your way in return.

"I just want to say sorry also for earlier."

"Why?"

"I should've told you already when you are already afraid, but I decided to keep it because I wanted to make the surprise worth anticipating.", Mina frowned.

"Next time, I won't do it again. If you want to, you can just leave me alone next time." That last words didn't suit you well so you retorted.

"Wait, no Mina. There's no need for that, okay?", you prevented her. "I am getting scared earlier but there was never an intention appeared in my mind that I would want to ran away and leave you here all by myself.

Minho gave me the task to keep you monitored and for my friend I have to do it. That's part of my role and my responsibility, Mina. I can't have your desire for adventures get ruined all because of my stubbornness and selfishness. If I see you happy at what you do, then might as well I'll join you too."

Mina's heart blossomed at your touching words of assurance. She can somehow feel relieved that it wasn't a big deal at all to you of what she did.

"Thanks, YN. You are such a great friend.", she ruffled your hair which elicited a laughter to you.

"Hehe, as I should be always for you, Mina.", you beamed.

As you stepped out of the forest together with her, a loud sound of a horn resonated around the village that was still audibly loud for both you and Mina to hear.

Both were also felt... alarmed because that sound only means one thing.

"An urgent announcement. What could it be?", Mina looked at you concerningly.

"Let's head back to the village. Now."

You ran along with Mina towards the village where you separated your way from her as you said goodbye and let her return to the castle when both saw Minho waiting for the princess outside.

On the other hand, you joined your parents who belongs to the crowd of people gathered in front of the castle where the spokesperson of the kingdom is seen standing with two royal guards on each of his side in the balcony.

"I demand a silence, everyone! Hear the message from the informant!", the general of the imperial forces shouted as he makes his arrival along with some of his men following him while forming a line.

The people listened quickly at the intimidating general. All looked above as the informant cleared his throat and watched everyone set their attention at him, prepared to learn the news he received earlier.

"As per the guards who are based on the entrance of our sacred land, they were sent a message through this scroll by a group of outsiders.",

The informant rolled and spreaded the scroll, revealing the contents for him to read.

"It says that the opposing kingdom of Thricehold led by Prince Reo wants all of us to be warned again by their impending attack to invade Twiceland. We assumed that they are taking their frustration of declining Prince Reo's proposal of courtship to the daughter of the Myoui clan, Princess Mina.

All of the villagers began whispering and blabbering at one another. Some were frantically anxious and worried about what could happen to all of them when chaos comes to victimize everyone it involves.

It also taken you aback as you learned that Mina is the main target and that could put her in grave danger once the outsiders became successful and manage to arrange her in a relationship with Prince Hiro which she never wanted to have.

It increased your nervousness about Mina's state of safety that all of your moments together with her ran back all over your mind.

"As we all may know, they've had many attempts to win this kingdom and none of them were successful, but that doesn't mean this could happen again this time.", the informant reminded.

"The message was now brought to King Akira and Queen Mashina. With the use of their power, they seek immediate action through a command to the imperial force to prepare theirselves according to the plan they have in mind.", the informant said, looking straight at the warriors below him who are seriously inspecting all the people present, including you and your family.

"General Shinsuke, your turn.", the informant told the heavily built looking man in a uniform amongst any men around here.

"We did came up with plan but we only had one problem, and that is we lost many fellow comrades from the previous battle.", General Shinsuke slightly went low on his voice as the regret and grieve still won't let go of him from what happened.

"Since we need many replacements, we are open for recruitments to let everyone participate and contribute to the survival and protection of our beloved kingdom of Twiceland.", the general declared; thus turning everyone to react in shock.

"We are expecting that the spots will get filled up tomorrow, as the training will start in time after the nunber of warriors gets completed. The camp is available tomorrow for anyone who wants to join us. Again, we are doing this for Twiceland and for the sake of survival; we ask for your help. Thank you."

The general and his men slowly disappeared as the crowd grew noisy with their reactions, thoughts and opinion at the current situation.

You remained silent as you are still processing everything you heard.

Everyone is placed in danger.

All of these would soon feel the wrath from the enemies desperately want to make everyone including you to bow down to them as they try to become the new rulers and expand their empire.

But your thoughts were focused more on your family and Mina, knowing that her simple rejection over the showcasing of love coming from that Prince Reo would soon spawn another heated tension between Twiceland and Thricehold.

Not wanting to let anything bad happen to them, you recalled again the invitation shared by the General to the people who are intently listening to them about the recruitment training program welcoming anyone who has the interest to stand up for Twiceland.

You and your family arrived home, deeply processing what they learned a while ago.

"I really hope nothing goes down unwell. Another battle is about to take place here in our village. We must stick and stay together, okay? In our family, everybody must be unharmed.", your father said, introducing another discussion only would get in between each other.

"We should just pray and keep ourselves strong and hopeful that this can end and be solved.", your mother said next, trapping your hands with her hold.

"Let's pack it up tomorrow and wait for f-"

"I'm joining the imperial forces."

All their eyes went glued on you with pure bewilderment, their eyebrows furrowed and mouth slightly agape in disbelief about what you just said interruptingly.

"W-wait, daughter..."

"What did you just said?"

"I... I...I'm entering the recruitment-"

"NO!", your mother almost pushed you hard away from her but composed herself instantly. "I'm not letting you there-"

"Mother, I don't have any choice. I have to help them! They are searching for more warriors and for me, I can't just allow how those outsiders are threatening us again. I have to help us from being spared.", you explained.

"That's the only thing I could prove my purpose of being one of the people here living in Twiceland, ma."

"Daughter, wait please.", your father stopped you. "I understand your intention of serving for the kingdom, but have you ever thinking about the sake of yourself? About... what might happen to us if you... oh god I can't say it.", he shook his head.

"We can't let it happen too, YN. We can't afford losing another child, please!", he begged as he kneeled in front of you; reminding you about the distress of losing their very first child and your late baby brother who died early due to illness.

"You can help through anything, YN but not this. Don't sacrifice yourself as if we can take losing you from us.", your mother gripped your hand tighter; urging you to change your mind.

You have utmost love and respect for your parents, following and granting their directions, guidelines and others but... this time it won't flinch or driven you to reconsider your decision.

That's because unlike before, you have another person outside of your family that you hold dearly in your heart.

It's not only about them anymore.

It's also about Mina.

"But mother, father... m-my friend... is important to me too. I have to do something to protect her on my own.", you said as your raised your head to glance at your parent's thoughtful expressions.

"F-friend?"

"When did you-"

"I know, I haven't had one... not until I met Mina."

Their eyes widened.

"Mina... Wait, Mina as is Princess Mina of the Myoui clan?!"

"You are friends with her?!"

You nodded and flashed a shy smile. "She saved me many times from the neighborhood youngsters who bullies me. She was like a light who helped me escape through my hard times of dealing all the hurtful words I get from them about who I really am."

"The more she helps me, the more I get motivated to do atleast one thing in return to everything she has done for me. I have to be the one to show how much I care for her this time, ma... pa.", you said as your eyes became teary.

"So please, I'm asking for your understanding again. Let me enter the training camp and participate on the battle."

Your mother and father looked at one another before they saw your gloomy mood and frowning emotion, realizing how much it troubles and takes a huge toll on you to know that your loved ones are going to face the terror that awaits for them on being a part of this place.

They sighed heavily and looked at you worriedly. "Daughter, are you really sure about this?"

"Yes, papa."

Your father nodded. "Alright, fine. If that's what you are fighting and hope for, all we can do is to support you."

Your eyes that were almost blinded with all the tears clogging your sight litted up in joy and appreciation, as your reasoning finally convinced your parents to unrestrict you from your decisions.

"We're expecting you to come back, daughter. Please, be safe out there okay? We will wait for you.", your mother pulled you to a hug as she sobbed in your shoulder.

Your father had his own tears falling too as he saw his wife crying in front of her comforting daughter about to sacrifice her whole life for the kingdom they are under in, for the community, for them as the parents and last but not the least... for your friend Mina.

"I'll shall return, ma. You have my words. Thank you again.", you sweared.

You seperated yourself away from your mother and went on to hug your father too.

"Goodluck, my daughter."

"Thank you father."

-THE NEXT DAY-

Early in the morning, you fell in line and applied at the executives about your interest on become a new recruit to be an addition to the army of warriors.

They accepted, however you caught that they must be looking at you in disdain and ridiculously; that a female villager would enter this such quite of a service to pay for.

Along with the othew new trainees, you had gone through a series of different training workouts and obstacles as part of the first preparation.

What sets you aside from them though is that you are the only female aspiring warrior out of every male ones, and that led you to suffer from discrimination; disliking gender equality.

Meanwhile, as you are doing your training in the camp; Mina went outside the castle and ran to visit your house where she was only greeted by your parents.

"Oh, princess! H-how can we help you, our lady?", your mother kneeled and bowed first before proceeded by your father as both with all due respect for the highness.

Mina was amazed and impressed however at the kind act of your parents, but it won't get her much longer as she still finds it cringe that she is being looked upon by many.

Once she steps out of the castle, all she ever wanted is to live a peaceful life and away to the life of being wealthy royal being; get portrayed as just a normal citizen of Twiceland also just like the rest of them.

Fortunately, it was only you who can be able to do that for her. Now she knows where did you get that deed from your parents.

"A-ahh... please, Mr. and Mrs. LN get up.", Mina said as she gestures for your parents to rise up.

"Uhm, is YN here?"

"Sorry princess but YN is currently having a training at the campsite.", your father said.

"W-wait... training?!", Mina raised her tone in surprise, scaring your parents at her intense reaction.

"Yes, your highness. She joined the recruitment to be one with the warriors against the army of outsiders.", your mother explained.

"Wait, you didn't know, princess? Didn't she told you?"

Mina hurriedly bids goodbye and ran ahead back into the castle, ignoring the following words by your father.

Later that night, you are on your way home from the campsite when you saw something that was quite unexpected for you.

It was Mina sitting on a bench beside the post from the entrance of the bridge crossing the port, holding her dog named Ray in her lap and caressing its fur.

You stopped in your steps and approached her.

"Mina! Why are here out at night alone?", you greeted her.

She drawn her gaze at you, stopping her strokes at her resting dog in her arms.

Only to receive a different greeting from her in return. Hers looked... unnerving and serious.

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"Tell you what?"

"Why did you join the enlistment of warrior who will get released to face against the army of akgaes?", she specified. "Without even my knowledge too?!"

You gasped, face stretched and eyes wide open in utter shock as you were caught.

"H-how did you know?"

"I came to your house earlier but your parents answered my call, they said you weren't there because you are there at the training camp.", Mina explained. "Why do you have to do this? You know how dangerous it is!"

Her voice raised at you for the very first time and it didn't fail to terrify you at the sight of this angered Mina.

"I just want to help the others from protecting you and everything in this kingdom, Mina. I'm doing this for all of us."

"Do you really need to? YN, I don't want you to go out there and be it your cause of death!", Mina said. "You could've just leave it to the others, they are skilled and they know what they're doing. They can handle it theirselves!"

"They are and so am I!", you defended yourself, not allowing to let your intentions absorbed with blames and complaints anymore especially if what you believe in is for good.

You went closer to her and grasped her shoulders as you stared at her emotionally. "Mina, you have to let me be on this one. Please. Just... for once, I have to know that I have done one thing right with you as my only friend."

Mina stared back and explored your own shiny pair of eyes filled with sorrow.

"Is you staying by my side aren't enough for you, YN?", she muttered. Your hands loosened as she attempts to make you realize something missing from your own point.

"Is... everything that we did together aren't enough? Hmm?"

"Have you perhaps... thought that your existence was all we need for us to acknowledge it as one of the good things that came into our life?"

Your heart shattered as not only you made Mina angry for the first time..

... you even made her cry for you.

"YN... all I needed is for you to stay. And I have to say, I'm so disappointed at you that you're taking this as if you never mind how much it'll affect us if there's something happen to you at the battle."

Mina swayed some hair on your forehead and looked at you with her bitter smile.

"Do you know why?"

You looked at her intriguingly.

"I can't lose you, so as your parents."

She carried her dog Ray with her as she started to return back at the castle, leaving you alone as you contemplate with your thoughts about what Mina told you which were almost identical as what your parent's concerns for your rate of survival.

-2 DAYS LATER-

You are resting at the nursing room after the beating you got from you altercation with one of the male trainees who keeps on continuing to mock you for being a woman serving as a warrior knowing how more vulnerable and less useful you are compared to him as a man.

You can't contain the amount of belittling he gives to you, something snaps out of you that pushed you to attack him aggressively until the officers broke up the fight and led you both to the nursing room to have your wounds healed.

He's on the other room to avoid again a possible fight from you and him.

As you are staring at the ceiling, still replaying what you heard from Mina and your parents who are both afraid for what you're about to risk in the battle; you heard the door squeaked open.

You saw the person peeked to see you.

"Minho?"

"What happened?", he asked, referring to your treated wounds and bruises around your face and arm.

"Started a brawl.", you simply answered.

"You did? This isn't you, YN."

"Shut up.", you rolled your eyes at his teasing.

"I'm just kidding. Hurry and follow me."

You leaned your back away from the bed.

"Where are we going?"

"You're going to do me a favor on this. Now quick, you'll see but first...hide.", Minho opened the door a little bit wider; giving you a glimpse of a large wooden crate on top of his trolley.

"Go on! The nurse might be here anytime soon!"

You hurriedly opened the lid and carefully sat there as you lowered yourself by crouching down.

Minho helped you close the lid before he starts pushing the trolley in his control

Following the direction, the view you are seeing through the hole of the crate gave you an idea on where Minho is leading you at.

He opened the lid and there, the bright lights of chandelier, an expensive room filled with gigantic paintings and picture frames and a long stairway covered in red carpet welcomed your sight.

"Upstairs, go.", you stepped away at the crate then ran upstairs with Minho.

Reaching the second floor, Minho went in front of a door and faced you who figured out that the place you and him just entered was inside the castle.

"YN."

"M-Minho? Why d-did you bring me here? You know I can't trespass?!", you whisperedly shouted at him to avoid causing too much noise that might attract other people inside to hear and caught you.

"I know but you're now here so just get over it.", Minho scoffed and waved it off. "And about the favor I'm telling you, talk and fix it out together."

"Huh?"

"She wants to talk to you but... she can't, so I did the move instead. Now settle your problems together before the time runs out.",

Minho knocked at the door twice and it made you instantly nervous at how sudden it is to see her again after what happened to the both of you.

"Come in.", you heard her voice inside.

"She's not angry, don't be afraid. I won't bring you here on behalf of her if she doesn't want to talk to you.", Minho gestured at you to take the answer.

He stepped aside, letting you hold the doorknob and sighed at first before you opened the door wide; revealing yourself to Mina who looked at you shockingly.

"Y-YN?! H-how did you-"

You felt your back pushed by Minho, leading you inside the room which startled you.

"Talk it out. Now.", Minho immediately closed the door after, leaving both of you alone in her room.

It was very awkward. This is the first time you entered her room and shared the space together with her alone, knowing how you're definitely in trouble once somebody caught you trespass here and have you punished.

"Minho! Aish... he'll get a lot of scolding from me later.", Mina huffed in the air and shook her head.

You and her went silent for a moment until Mina who's actually the one who requested for a conversation with one another, took the move to start talking.

"D-did he sneakily let you in?"

"H-he did.", you nodded.

Mina sighed.

"He's right, I do want to talk with you but I didn't mean it to be here exactly.", Mina whined.

"But I think I understand his rush. It's already 10 in the evening, Mina. You aren't allowed to get out in this hour.", you said as you checked the time outside where the clocktower is visible.

"Is your training j-just finished?"

"Mmhmm."

Her forehead crumpled, nose crunched when she saw something distracting on you that she couldn't help but to ask.

Standing from her bed, she went closer and slightly ducked herself to match your height; cupping the side of your head gently as she traced the bandages with her slender fingertips.

"What happened to these?"

"You won't like it when I tell you."

"I don't care. I'm concerned and if it's caused by you then it's your fault."

"There. I had this because of me."

Mina then stared at you seriously and irritatingly, not liking the slow buildup you're doing.

You gulped, not wanting to trigger the princess more. "S-sorry. I- I got into a fight.", you lowered your head.

"Because?"

"One of the guys there... was an egoistic maniac. He keeps belittling and underestimating me, telling me that a warrior's job isn't suited for women like me and they said maybe I'm just trying to escape my responsibilities of serving the kingdom especially when I belong to a poor family.", you fakely smiled at her.

Mina got hurt at your story as a woman. Sure, she may not experienced it at all because she came from a royal family and all she gets was nothing but respect and power enough for anyone to treat her well; but there's what ifs sometimes that crosses her mind how judgmental and discriminating a society can be if women like her don't possess a valuable reputation like hers.

"You're lucky they didn't kicked you out of the camp."

"My side won.", you reasoned. "I don't know what are they going to do on him though."

"Don't mind him, he didn't even cared at your feelings when he said those harsh words at you.", Mina said. "You just lashed out because you can't let yourself take it all when you know that's a lie, YN. We all both know being a woman can do anything just like men, there's even a possibility we can't deny that we can be better than them.

We are also a human too and we have the rights to contribute in the society and in this kingdom in our own way. We are all just one, YN."

"I know, that's why I want to prove him wrong and anyone who heard what he's blabbering about that a woman like me can be a warrior, Mina."

Mina got quiet for a while before she looked and you with a timid smile.

"About last night... I'm sorry. My emotions took control over me that I started to think negatively only thinking that being in that battle would be only a death sentence to you YN.

I didn't looked at the bright side that maybe your inclusion to the army could be a huge assist enough to strengthen the force and defeat the invaders.

I understand that you are doing this for me and... since you said that you want to be the one to help me; all I have to do is to support and appreciate your consideration, YN."

After her apology, she lunged her body at yours to wrap you in a hug which you welcomely took in return while you blushed at the close contact.

"I forgive you, Mina. I knew you are just disappointed and infuriated that I kept this as a secret from you not even thinking whether you'll like it or not. I guess I do became selfish and arrogant but it's not that I completely disregarded you out of my mind, Mina.

If I do, then I won't be standing here with my training attire and face you knowing that I joined the enlistment to defend you.", you said to her which Mina completely understood it well.

"You only have 2 days before the battle, right?"

"I-I am.", you frowned at the realization. "Our day is free to spend it together with our loved ones before we engage."

Mina releases from your embrace and gripped your wrists. "Then let's go tomorrow. Let's do everything we want together. Pretend as if we aren't aware of the following day. Can I join you?", she said with oozing determination.

"Ofcourse you are, Mina.", you allowed her although she didn't even need to ask becase the answer would be still obvious anyway.

Both of you grinned at each other before you said goodbye to her and left the room, where Minho who is waiting outside; escorted you to leave the castle with a relief that you and Mina are both okay with each other now.

-2 DAYS LATER-

Every hour was spent properly, but at the end it'll still makes you feel it wasn't enough; especially if you knew that being with that special person would halt once the daylight comes as you're about to do something important and... risky.

As you had fun with Mina, visiting some food stalls, antique shops and clothing boutique around the village; you also gave time to finally introduce yourselves to your respective parents.

To yours, it was easily fine to you about the reception Mina would get from your parents. They are kindhearted and shows full respect for a Myoui and the princess of the kingdom that rules the land well, so they welcomed Mina with open arms.

Unlike on Mina's though, it gave you anxiety and panic that they won't accept you from being close to their daughter knowing that you are just nothing without a class and just an average villager only earning money from selling fruits on the streets.

But your wrong thoughts had you feel surreal when King Akira and Queen Mashina greeted and was impressed at how your friendship with their daughter was built and remained bound to each other as it gets stronger.

They didn't mind someone like you who might be not contrast to Mina's status, all that's important for them to know is that their daughter have finally someone to call as a friend since they reminded you of the fact that Mina isn't good at interacting and socializing that's why she has barely nothing close to her, not until she met you.

The royal couple learnt also that you are one of the warriors who'll be going to battle against the army of akgaes tomorrow. They wished you luck and send their prayers that you'll make it out there alive, which Mina didn't quite liked how it sounds because it worries her more.

Later that night, Mina who is making her homework noticed you sitting at the bed silently. She presumed that you are spacing out at how deep your stare at the unknown was.

She paused from her task and sat beside you.

"A penny for your thoughts, YN?", your senses reawakened when you heard Mina's soft voice near at you

"A-ahh... I'm just... confused.", you nervously chuckled.

"Why's that?"

"I- I actually don't know too. I don't know why I'm scared yet I'm prepared for what's about to go down tomorrow.", you said.

"My guess was that I literally don't have any idea what could be my fate there at the battleground once I charge along with my fellow warriors. No matter how I stay positive, the question still appears in my head. Maybe to keep me aware of it."

"But I must not get brought on with these fears distracting me, especially if what I'm about to do is for you Mina.", you looked at her who is still listening patiently.

"Mina, I entered the army to train myself to get unbothered by my fears too. I've been weak through all my life, not able to stand up on my own and have myself only rely with the help of others.

But now, I assure that things would go different this time. Nothing's going to hold me back if it means your safety Mina."

You reached for her hand and laid it on your thigh as you stacked it with your own hand, sending shivers to Mina at your sudden touch.

"Trust me when I say this, I'm the one who'll protect and save you now Mina.

I can't bear to lose you too.

I can't let it happen.

For once in my lifetime, I chose to be brave for my friend..."

You raised your hands clenched together.

"For my love..."

Mina's eyes widened in surprise at your confession and your new acknowledgment to her.

"For you, my Princess Mina."

You kneeled in front of her and kissed her hand sweetly. Mina blushed intensely at your heartwarming gesture.

She wants to speak at first but now that she found out about your secret feelings of admiration to her, she can't even tend to say anything about it now.

It was... surprising indeed.

She didn't know that you fell in love with you in the midst of your friendship with her.

And now, you took the opportunity to reveal to her the last reason out of everything on why you decided to think of her immediately after the announcement of incoming invasion to the kingdom that led you to join the army.

It was all for your undying and courageous love that grown onto you for her.

Observing that she has no comment at what you spilled to her, you nodded understandably and stood up in front of her.

"I know it's too sudden, but I have to do it. I might be running out of time now so I said it now to you just in case.", you smiled at Mina who is still looking away from you and instead staring at her hand that you kissed.

"You can tell me what you have to say about it before I go or not, it doesn't matter if you return the feelings I have for you or not, Mina. I am not expecting anything. What's important to me as of now is your safety along with the people of Twiceland. Goodnight, princess.", you said to her before you left her room and her castle, leaving her still lost in a trance as she processed and consumes everything that she heard from you.

She went into a deep slumber where her dreams were all filled and occupied with her memories she created with you and everything that you've done for her.

She was once lonely like you, but you found yourselves when your paths crossed; and all she felt was happiness and satisfication at your company.

And thus her heart was pouring with desire at how many more of these she would love to share with you in the future.

At the realization of that words, her eyes sprung open; hug tightened on the pillow with a gasp escaped in her mouth as she finally knows the answer she has in store for you.

-THE NEXT DAY-

The d-day has arrived. Prepared and all set to go, you bid goodbye to your family where you enveloped them in a group hug; not that you're taking this as if this is the last time you'll ever get to do this with them but to keep their hopes and spirits up that you'll still manage to return in one piece.

Just as when you released yourself to them, you heard your name got yelled by a voice that belongs to the another person you wanted to see for the last time to encourage and motivate yourself more.

"YN!!!"

You rotated your body, seeing Mina and Minho standing in front of the entrance way.

"Mina."

She ran hurriedly to you and gave you a hug as she began sobbing in your shoulder.

"B-be safe, please. I can't... live without you, YN. Come back.", she pleaded at you. You caressed her back to ease her emotions as you felt her body shaking from her chokes and tenseness in her cries.

"I love you too, YN. I'll be waiting for you, okay?! Promise me that we will see each other again."

You nodded and smiled at her. "You're the only one who cures me, Mina and one of the reasons why I should keep on breathing because... I can't live without you too. I'll do everything I can for us to win and return safe and sound in your arms again."

"You let me be who I am today. A friend, a warrior, and a lover.

I have to overcome this and be brave for you Mina."

Mina pulled your head into hers for an uplifting and encouraging kiss that inspired you more to win this battle alongside with your fellow warriors of Twiceland.

For the kingdom.

For the people.

For your family.

For Mina.

Your parents and Minho smiled at the wonderful sight.

"Goodluck to all of you, okay? You owe me a date.", Mina said as she looked at you while you wiped off her tears across her face.

"I'll remember that, Mina.", you kissed her again and hugged her one more time before you leave with her and Minho as you send your goodbyes again to your parents.

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

"ATTACK!!!!!!!!"

The commander blew the horn to signal everyone to charge at the enemy.

You ran along with your fellow warriors as you carry your signature bow and arrow weapon.

All of you paused and posed as you readied your arrow and placed it at your bow for it be pulled and released.

Shots were fired, creating a rain of arrows to decrease the number of warriors from the opposing army.

Some were successfully killed the others while the rest only suffered a wound as they nearly dodge it with the help of their fellow warrior blocking them with a shield.

They took the turn next, firing thousands of arrows straight to your side.

Thankfully, one of the warriors in the defense team protected you with his own shield too.

After the exchange of attacks from the archery teams of each sides, the rest who yields bladed weapons such as swords, machete and spears engaged at one another where they began slashing and killing the hell out at everyone who stands in their way.

It lasted for many hours. Series of chasing, submitting, punches, chops and shots using anything you can use to prevent the enemy from standing up were all performed.

The commander and the prince of Thricehold, Prince Reo confronted as the space around them is enough for the two to began a duel via sword fight.

Unfortunately, you witnessed General Shinsuke get slained by the prince with a massive stab of his sword straight to his heart.

"GENERALLL!!!!", you belong to the ones who screamed in agony at the sight of the death of your respected higher ranking personnel of the imperial forces of Twiceland.

"ELIMINATE ALL OF THEM SO THAT WE CAN TAKEOVER TWICELAND! LET THEM TASTE THE DEFEAT!", you heard Prince Reo shouted to his men before he proceeded killing other warriors.

You became agitated and enraged at the fact that your army is now gojng near at the brink of losing after the death of your commander.

Not letting the enemies to catch up, you began using your bow and picked up a spare spear on the ground that belongs to one of the dead warriors as you used these to kill the foes about to attack you one by one.

You butted someones head with the tip of your bow then smashed it aside with the length of your spear.

You spun around the spear in your hand and pointed it towards at the rest as they got hit with the speed of your weapon's movement in your possession before you threw it at an enemy, stabbing the long spear right on his stomach that made him cough blood and collapse on the ground.

You fired another couple of shots using your arrow, aiming it directly to their heads before your sight is clear enough to target the prince next.

Gripping the arrow, you released it from your hold... only to result as a fail when the prince catched the arrow with quick reaction time and pure instinct which completely surprised you.

He broke the arrow in his knees, snapping it in half.

"YOU!!!", he pointed at you with his menacing stare. "DIE!!!"

"NOT GONNA HAPPEN.", you and him charged at one another. To match his sword, you also grabbed one for you just in time to save yourself from being slashed; defending yourself with your own blade.

You gritted your teeth and used your pure strength to push back the force at him, spreading him apart from you.

"THE PROPHECY OF MYOUI DYNASTY'S DOOM IS UNSTOPPABLE! SURRENDER OR I WILL KILL ALL OF YOU BEFORE I TURN THIS LAND INTO A NEW EMPIRE WHERE I RULE, AND THEN... I WILL BE THE LAST KING AND HAVE PRINCESS MINA TO BE MY QUEEN!", he said as he yield his sword before pointing it at you warningly.

"IT'S NOT OVER UNTIL IT'S OVER! YOU ARE THE ONES WHO WILL GO DOWN... AND MUCH BETTER, I CAN'T LET YOU HAVE THE PRINCESS!"

You shouted, posing at your own fighting stance.

He tilted his head annoyingly. Jaw clenched, teeth grinding, eyes flaring.

"DO YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE SPEAKING TO? DO YOU KNOW HOW MANY WARRIORS I'VE KILLED WHO TRIED TO TAKE ME DOWN? HOW LONG IT TOOK ME TO CONQUER THIS LAND?"

He removed his helmet and his gloves to help him widen the scape of his vision and to prevent his grip on his sword from becoming slippery and loosened.

"I AM A ROYAL PRINCE AND YOU!!! YOU ARE JUST A NOBODY!!!", he said before positioning his body with his own fighting stance.

"You know, I would rather be a nobody than to be slave under your reign.", you sighed and looked around your surrounding, imagining how nightmarish it would be if this sight of unruly and merciless killings occur in Twiceland if he ruled.

"But you're mistaken.

I WAS a nobody.

At this day, I am a fighter."

"RAAAAAGGGHHHHH!!!"

You and Prince Reo charged at one another, blades colliding, punches that either hit or miss and some dodges that sent one of you shamely landed on the ground.

Few a few minutes you and her would continue fighting one another to the death until Prince Reo got the opportunity to give you a critical damage by slashing your arm with his sword.

You hissed at the immense stinging pain of your open wound, blood flowing out from it.

Prince Reo grinned devilishly at the view before he tries to attack you again but you avoided and gave offense using only your right arm.

It didn't long as he overpowered you again by kicking you in the face and sliced your thigh that made you kneel on the ground in both exhaustion and dread.

Your eyes are starting to get blurry as Prince Reo takes his time to help his men kill some of your fellow warriors before he turns his attention back at you.

Suddenly, as his unclear figure gets closer at you; Mina's voice rang through your head again as you remembered the lines she told you weeks ago including some of your conversation with her regarding the decision of you voluntarily joining the enlistment for the battle of Twiceland.

"You shouldn't scared of anything, YN. Whether you have me there on your side or it's you doing it for me. All you have to do is to keep moving forward as you think about me, that's how you can get through everything."

"I can't live without you, YN."

"B-be safe, please. I can't... live with the thought of me without you, YN. Come back. I'll be waiting for you."

"I have to overcome and be brave for you, Mina."

That's it. Don't give up. Fight to the fullest.

Recharging your energy, her couraging voice that felt like calling you inside your head is effectively making you more motivated and determined to finish this once and for all to secure her safety and your people.

You coughed blood and groaned as you tried your best to lift your body back up, but you winced and shrieked at Prince Reo tugging your hair as he raised your head harshly.

"Kneel... and acknowledge your new king."

You didn't. You just made him fuming in anger more as you spitted your blood stained saliva right in his face.

"Fine. I'll just kill you and burn you along with your comrades, and no one will e-"

He never got to complete his words when you surprised him with a stab up to his neck with your dagger hidden in your pocket.

Losing his grip in your head, he crashed in the ground and slowly gets suffocated as he began losing his breathe.

You picked up your bow and your last remaining arrow, aiming at his heart before he passed away from the stab wound in his chest.

Your comrades as well as the remaining enemies saw the defeat of the prince, laying down lifelessly below you.

They had no other but to surrender not only theirselves but their weapons too.

The survived warriors of Twiceland erupted in victory as all of you successfully defended the throne of the Myouis in the kingdom of Twiceland.

You remained standing there as you watched your comrades with a small smile, feeling relieved that it's now over.

The people are safe.

Your family is safe.

The kingdom is safe.

She is safe.

----------

Mina was being comforted by her mother in her bedroom as she lays her head on the queen's lap while having her silky curly black hair stroked when suddenly they heard a loud cheering noises outside the castle.

"They're here.", Queen Mashina said.

Mina gets up and looked at her mother and the window before she hurriedly exited her room together with her mother.

They went downstairs and stood at the center of the castle.

The doors are open, bright sunny morning made everyone outside almost absolutely invisible.

But there was one figure who appeared that had Mina put a wide smile and vanish the heavy worries weighing her down deep inside.

It was you wearing your warrior suit stained with blood, your bow and arrows hanging behind your back, looking messy and abused but perfectly fine.

A smile crept up in your face as you saw Mina cried her tears of joy beside her mother.

"Go on, dear.", Queen Mashina permitted her daughter.

Mina didn't hesitated to ran towards you and trap you in a tight, longing hug.

"Y-you're back... thank God you're back."

"I can't leave my best girl, not when she owns me a date.", you whispered in her ear before you buried your face on the crook of her neck.

-3 DAYS LATER-

You took those precious time to rest your body after a cruel and gruesome battle you had against the deceased Prince Reo and his army who are currently locked up in jail to pay for their sins.

The parents also expressed their approval of their relationship, allowing you and Mina to be officially a couple.

Your bravery and success of slaying the evil prince was recognized, acknowledging her as the last woman standing which became an inspiration and reminder for everyone to finally respect women even more in your society, as well as for being the savior of the land that earned a celebratory occassion dedicated to you who is now referred by many as YN the Braveheart Archer.

Right now, the night is young and the people are having fun as well as your parents and the king and Queen theirselves talking and polishing their growing closeness with one another due to your relationship with Mina.

And ofcourse, not forgetting about the deal...

You took Mina to a date, seperating yourselves away from the crowd after entertaining them as you and her ate, talked and romantically danced together along with the song Mina chose at the place where you and her first met.

At last, my love has come along My lonely days are over And life is like a song

Ooh yeah, yeah At last, the skies above are blue My heart was wrapped up in clover The night I looked at you

I found a dream, that I could speak to A dream that I can call my own I found a thrill to rest my cheek to A thrill that I have never known

Ohh yeah yeah You smile You smile Oh and then the spell was cast And here we are in heaven For you are mine At last

(AN: The song is titled "At Last" by Etta James)

"The song is beautiful.", you said as you indulged the rhythm and the melody of the song while dancing along very slowly with Mina.

"Indeed it is. I'm glad that you are, because I do think the lyrics is pretty fitting for us.", Mina said as she pressed her cheek at your shoulder blade.

"Ever since I found you and I took you to that forest with my wish, I never thought that you are destined to be the one I'll fell in love with all along. It was truly like a spell that was casted in ourselves by that magical tree and now being with you as someone I can call as mine... it sure does feels like heaven."

"I love you, YN.", she softly said to you as she leaned away and stared at your shimmering eyes.

"I love you too, Mina. Without you, I'm not who I am today. Maybe if it wasn't for you, I will forever be weak, vulnerable and coward. Words can't describe how grateful I am." The two of you then kissed on the lips as the song that is now both your favorite couple song remained playing on the background while the moon illuminates and the stars sparkled in glee at the gorgeous scenario.

-1000 YEARS LATER-

In the midst of people roaming and admiring the historic displays around the museum, a woman is busily writing will her maximum speed in her notebook as she focusedly copied some detailed and key information imprinted on the poster.

After she finished, she looked again on the museum brochure that shows her the map of the entire place, hopefully to assist her locating the next station she has to transfer next where the other history topic that is part of her friend's research project is placed.

She tried to follow its direction but the stress is slowly being visible in her expression, this time she's unable to understand the content and the luck gave up on her at this point.

She looked around for somebody to ask but something in her is holding her back.

"Are you okay, miss?"

She looked at the owner of the voice who approached her. It was a woman with hair tied on a ponytail, camera hanging from her neck, blue long sleeved polo as the upper garment, fitted jeans for the lower, white sneakers and those pair of glass that makes her look attractingly handsome and cool type of a woman.

"U-uhh, yes.", her shyness took control of her that activated those stutters. She gulped when the latter raised her eyebrows, probably doubting her answer.

"I-I mean... yeah, no actually."

"I don't mean to stalk you but you've rotating your body around as if you're lost so I came up with the idea to atleast... know your problem?", she said.

"I-I don't understand the direction the map is telling me to g-go through this station.", the research girl said.

"Want me to help you?"

"S-sure, I appreciate the help. I kind of getting lost now anyway."

Both of them smiled at each other. "Can I have the map, please?"

The research girl gave it to the stranger.

"Ah. Follow me."

They began to walk together.

"I noticed, you aren't good with interacting to people aren't you?"

"E-eh?"

"I'll take it as a lucky guess.", the stranger smirked. "But no means of making you uncomfortable okay? I understand if you are. Perhaps you're an introvert."

"Y-yeah."

"Sadly, we're not alike. I'm more of an extro but hey, I make sure people gets invested also on conversing with me.", she said proudly. The research girl can't believe how charismatic and free this woman beside her.

"So... what's your purpose of visiting this museum?", she asked, trying to prove herself.

"I-I'm helping my friend on her research. H-he can't do it by herself. He's currently in hospital."

"Oh, what happened?"

"Extreme illness. But he's recovering."

"Well that's good to hear. What's his name?" "Minho." “Get well soon to your friend.”

“Thanks.”, she smiled and bowed gratefully. "How about y-you?"

"As you can see, I have my baby here with me.", the stranger said; patting her camera; treating it as a valuable item. "I'm a photographer who also creates blogs. My subject this week is about history so... I choose something here that interests me.", she shrugged.

"Oh, we're here!", she said as she saw the sign that points at the room inside where the next station is located.

Both of them entered and wandered their eyes around at the wax figurines, artifacts, antique clothings and many more that are displayed on every corner.

"Woah, historical periods of Japan? Dynasty Myoui and the legend of YN the Braveheart Archer?", the photographer said in awe as she reads what's written in the poster.

"Hey, you kinda look like her.", the photographer said as she pointed at the image of a woman. "Are you perhaps related to Queen Mina Myoui of Twiceland?"

"N-no, but I d-do get a lot of recognition with my face sometimes.", she said, shaking her head. Her eyes squinted as she back and forths her sight at the photographer and the image of the one and only legendary archer beside the princess on the poster.

"You even look identical to YN too.", she shared which received with a laughter from the photographer that astounded her.

"Really?", she looked again at the image and grinned. "Who knows, maybe we are connected to them? Ancestors, probably?", she pursed her lower lip and shrugged.

After that, she began reading aloud the information mentioned which Mina followed and listened at her.

"... they fell in love, married and adopted their only son as they ruled the kingdom of Twiceland. YN the Braveheart Archer became the first ever woman who sat in the throne as the King of Twiceland alongside her wife and soon proclaimed 7th Queen of Twiceland, Mina of Myoui Dynasty..."

As she finished reading the description, the two weren't aware that right as they turned their head aside, their eyes got each other hooked in a stare, silently traced each other's facial features.

It was then interrupted by a song from Coldplay titled "Life in Technicolor ii" that played in the speaker that echoed around the museum to set an appopriate mood to make the environment cozy and entertaining.

"U-uhh... hey, I... haven't got to introduce myself, right?", the photographer said, breaking the silence and the eye contact that made the research girl glanced away with a tint of blush also in her cheek.

"I'm Y/EN. Nice to meet you.", the photographer lend her free hand.

The shy girl looked at it before she accepted the handshake gesture for a kind welcome.

"I'm Sharon. Nice to meet you too.", she flashed her gummy smile.

They released each other's hand as they felt strange feeling in their hearts at the firm touch they shared.

"Hey, do you want to get featured on my blog? Don't worry, I'll mention once I posted it. As a return, I can help you with your friend's project.", Y/EN suggested.

"Sure, I don't mind.", Sharon nodded which made Y/EN smile.

Afterwards, they focused back on learning history through assisting one another as both constructed closeness between them while Sharon gets to slowly improve her confidence and build her bravery in Y/EN's company.

#twicemina #twice #twiceminaoneshot #twiceminaau #twiceminaxfreader #twiceminaxfemalereader #gxg #twiceoneshot #twiceau #kpopau #kpoponeshot

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jujumin-translates · 2 years

Text

Event | Literary Impasse | Chapter 7

*Contains spoilers for Act 12 - eternal moment*

Tsuzuru: Umm, pardon me.

Kid A: Hello!

Tooru: Hello.

Kid B: Are you guys brothers?

Kid A: Who’s big brother are you?

Sakuya: That’s Sakuya-sensei’s friend.

Kid B: Sakuya-sensei’s friend?

Kid C: Hello.

Tsuzuru: You really are Sakuya-sensei, huh.

Sakuya: Ahaha.

Tsuzuru: So, which kids are the…

Sakuya: Ah, the one playing with the car is Hizashi-kun and the one playing with the blocks is Yuuma-kun.

Yuuma: Your car is blocking me.

Hizashi: Your blocks are the ones that are blocking me.

Yuuma: Hmph.

Hizashi: Hmph!

Tsuzuru: Aah… I see.

Tooru: Hey, this blue car is pretty cool.

Hizashi: Mmhm! It’s really fast!

Tooru: Is this a castle? It’s really big.

Yuuma: I’m building a tower over here!

Sakuya: That’s amazing! He’s doing great!

Tsuzuru: He’s used to talking to younger kids because of our youngest brothers and their friends.

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Tooru: I’ve talked to them.

Tsuzuru: How’d it go?

Tooru: They’re both feeling sad and mopey because of him moving away.

Tooru: But they didn’t know how to deal with those feelings, so they took it out on each other.

Tsuzuru: So they never really hated each other. Maybe we just need a catalyst.

Sakuya: Well then, I still wanna go through with the plan! The other teachers said they’d be willing to help…

Tsuzuru: We’ve got about fifteen… No, maybe about ten minutes. Tooru, do you think it’s doable?

Tooru: …Yeah, probably.

Tooru: I was talking to those kids and a story already came to mind for me to make up.

Tooru: I’m not sure why… But I’d really like to write.

Tsuzuru: That’s the spirit.

Sakuya: I’m sorry, but we really don’t have any time at all…

Tsuzuru: It’ll surprise you how a writer’s writing progresses when they’re a little cornered.

Tsuzuru: If he can’t get it done in time, I’ll be responsible for writing it up for you as planned.

Tsuzuru: So just rest easy and write the best you can.

Tooru: Okay. I’ll do my best.

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

*Page turns*

Tsuzuru: …

Masumi: You’re not writing today? I was just about to set the timer.

Tsuzuru: Yeah, I’m not gonna write. I can’t think of anything good right now, so I’m gonna bite the bullet and step away from my computer.

Tsuzuru: Besides, I have a little event coming up before the deadline, and I want to write after that’s out of the way.

Tsuzuru: I only have two days left until my meeting with Otomiya-san, but I only need a plot, so I think I’ll be okay.

Masumi: Hmmm.

*Phone buzzes*

Tsuzuru: Hello, Kaoru?

Kaoru: “Hello? I’m handing you over to Tooru.”

Tsuzuru: (Did he get caught in a dead-end…?)

Tooru: “...Haah.”

Tsuzuru: Tooru?

Tooru: “I wrote it.”

Tsuzuru: Already!?

Tooru: “It’s a short story…”

Tooru: “I was able to write a story all the way through for the first time. I’m really happy.”

Tsuzuru: I see… I’m glad. Congrats. I’m looking forward to reading it.

Tooru: “Mhm, thanks.”

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Sakuya: Let’s all give a round of applause to the younger kids for singing so energetically. Clap, clap, clap~.

*Applause*

Sakuya: Next, we’ll begin the reading aloud of the performance.

Hizashi: “The Twins Make Up.”

Yuuma: “By Tooru Minagi.”

Hizashi: “In the starry sky, there were two very close brothers.”

Yuuma: “They always played together.”

Hizashi: “They liked to play with their favorite cars. And they liked building castles with blocks.”

Yuuma: “They even ate lunch together.”

Hizashi: “But one day, they got into a fight.”

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Yuuma: “I’m sorry. I didn’t want to say goodbye.”

Hizashi: “I’m sorry too. I just wanted to play with you forever.”

Yuuma: “I’ll shine a lot to reach you, even when we’re apart.”

Hizashi: “I’ll shine a super extra lot too… Let’s play together again.”

Yuuma: …Uwaaah.

Hizashi: Snnf…

Yuuma: “I’ll write you a letter.”

Hizashi: “Mmh, I’ll write you one too… Snf.”

*Applause*

Tsuzuru: Amazing. They even ad-libbed some stuff at the end.

Tooru: I’m glad those two were able to make up.

Sakura: That was a good story~!

Kaede: Sakuya-sensei’s friend wrote it!

Tsubaki: Amaaazing!

Kasumi: Uuuuwah… I’m really glad…!

Tsuzuru: Huh? Hinamori-san came too?

Kasumi: I was thinking of being the photographer… Glad I got here in time to… Snf.

Tsuzuru: You’re crying so much the pictures are gonna be all blurry…

Kasumi: I have image stabilization on, so it’ll be fine!

Hizashi: Big bro!

Tooru: Hm?

Yuuma: Thank you for writing the story for us.

Tooru: --Mmhm, thanks for letting me write it.

Tooru: And also thanks to Sakuya-san and Tsuzuru-nii-san for giving me the chance.

Tooru: Someday I hope I can write a proper continuation of the story.

Tooru: When I become a novelist and I’m able to write longer stories, I hope I’ll be able to write this into a book.

Tsuzuru: Yeah, I’m sure you will.

Sakuya: You’ll do great!

Tooru: Yeah.

Tsuzuru: …Continuing a story, huh.

[ ⇠ Previous Part ] • [ Next Part ⇢ ]

#a3!#a3! translation #〚 event #sakuya sakuma #tsuzuru minagi #masumi usui #kasumi hinamori #// uuugehhe ik this isn’t abt him but sakuya interacting with the kids uuuehh so cute

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minervadashwood · 2 years

Text

i need to talk to myself about my fics. Do not read this if you don't want to be spoiled for any of my series. i may make this private, but for now i don't mind sharing. i need to get out of my head and the prospect of others reading/commenting helps me do that. (not that i actually expect a comment lol).

few things in the world are more boring than listening to me ramble about writing.

writing scars and stitches is giving me a lot of anxiety lately. it feels like i have a dreaded graduate school paper due on a novel I hated. but i don't hate the story. i love it, i love the way i've written the characters, developed them, developed their relationships. i like the freedom in exploring facets of all of them. i love how they all react differently to the same set of circumstances. i like the changes to canon i've made because they just feel more real to me.

the overarching issue is my perfectionism, which thankfully is not nearly as bad as it used to be. but my perfectionism usually makes me give up. I don't want to give up.

that's the overarching problem, the specific problem is that, mechanically, i want the story to do too much at this point. I want it to be everything, but no single story can do that.

one cause behind this urge is that since the relationship is established and going well, there has to be other sources of tension/conflict. for two weeks i tried to write tension into the relationship (daryl being too protective and distant mostly), but those chapters always felt wrong. they made my story so heavy, when i want it to be light. i want reader and daryl's relationship to certain and solid, something they both can depend on no matter what.

still, reader needs some growing pains. this is all in service to get her closer to Rick, because I need that friendship solid before the prison. I want reader and Rick to be as close as he and Daryl are in the show. (Rick and Daryl will still be close, only now reader will be included). When it comes time for the Woodbury arc, Reader will basically be Rick's diplomat/negotiator, while Daryl is his right-hand man. Basically Rick's the heart, Reader's the brains, Daryl's the hands.

So I need reader to be in a place where she is okay with Rick killing Shane and with Rick taking complete charge of the group. I need her to support him when the others don't. Daryl will too, but my focus is on reader. I am working toward that even now, but I feel like I'm walking on a tightrope. Post-farm, it'll hopefully be back to fluff and friendship building in the social way.

I need to give myself the same patience I would afford anyone else. I definitely need deadlines; I'd flounder without them. And I need to write everyday for the routine of it. I suppose I need to accept that I will feel anxious for a while. I've never written anything as emotionally mature as this story, so it's only natural that it's challenging.

Reminder to self: when in doubt, write the dialogue. Dialogue comes easiest to me, and it will let me gain confidence before I work on the harder stuff.

---

i feel very happy with the omegaverse fic so far. i have some major plot points, and i want to totally avoid repeating myself, so most show events won't happen on the page.

I thought of making Jesus transmasc, but I'm too worried I won't get the physical details right. So cis man he will be.

I have this metanarrative going on about two packs becoming one, the Dixon pack + the Grimes pack, and Reader holding them together. Jesus could be part of that glue, too, especially if he really cares about merle. I'm thinking of theirs as an open relationship, fully committed to each other, but still having sex with other people. It'd be really fun to play with his character being in the quarry group from the start.

i also had the idea of reader running into rick at a convenience store, pre-apocalypse, and have them physically drawn to each other, but of course neither would act upon it. later i see Reader ignoring any attraction to him, but Rick struggling whenever they're in heat and trying to avoid them during that time. The idea of reader having two mates would not occur to any of them at first.

still, i don't want to make any unshakeable plans for that story. it's very much going to be making it up as I (we--if people keep making suggestions) go. and that is such a counter to what s&s is. I think i need that freedom.

----

actually making these stories has taken them out of my bedtime comfort stories, so i have to find another one up and refuse to write a word about it.

#mdop #minerva meta #minerva writes

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corkcitylibraries · 2 years

Text

Cork in Verse | Ana Spehar Interviews Sloane Quirke

Sloane Quirke is an artist from Cork. They’re currently studying drama in Kinsale and have written pieces for the online publication Good Day Cork. They find poetry to be a really good emotional release for them, and it inspires their drawing and acting as well. They love trying lots of different art forms and try their best to have fun with it all.

Besides writing you are an artist and studying drama. How do you manage to fit writing with other demands on your time?

To be honest I do find it difficult to set time aside for writing. I can make time when there’s a deadline on it, I think because there’s someone relying on me getting it done. To fit writing stuff that’s just for myself or my personal projects in though, I find that keeping a notebook on me really helps. I’ll often have random ideas or nice sounding lines pop into my head, and I jot them down in there. Then if I’m ever waiting somewhere with nothing to do, such as on a bus or in a cafe, I’ll take out my notebook and develop those ideas a bit more.

Where do you seek inspiration from? Who are your poetic influences and why?

Most of my inspiration comes from my life, sometimes I’ll have a great experience with something, and I just have to write it out to keep the memory. Sometimes I write to vent, sometimes as an observation on ways that I think or on the world. The vast majority of my writing is about my experiences of being non-binary and navigating the world and all my relationships with people as an autistic person. I am guilty of not reading a whole lot of poetry, but I know this woman, Róisín Taylor, and she wrote a book with her poems. It’s called Mind Full of Memories, and it’s about her travels around the world. I was really inspired by the way she told her story and conveyed her feelings through a series of poems.

Does the creative process of writing affect your mood, and if it does how?

The creative process definitely affects my mood. I very often write to vent so that I’m not keeping emotions and thoughts in me. Writing out what’s going on, whether it’s just a stream of words or a coherent piece of writing, is so useful to help make sense of the messiness that can be in my head. I’ve also found recently that it’s a good way for me to challenge my own thoughts and thought patterns. When I was writing my piece, I’m Choosing To…, I had pages and pages of my thoughts on the topic of binary thinking, and eventually realised so much of it was just me being annoyed. After making that realisation, I started to look at it from a different angle and thought about the beauty and freedom of breaking out of that thinking, while still acknowledging the negatives of being stuck in those binary thought patterns. I would really recommend writing as an emotional release, and it doesn’t have to be good, because nobody else needs to read it ever.

Could you tell us more about your creative process of writing?

I have different processes depending on each project. Sometimes a poem just comes to me in its complete form, in a burst of inspiration and I end up writing it out frantically. Then I go back to it a day or two later and make minimal edits just so it’ll flow better. If I’m writing about a theme, or even about an aspect of my life, I’ll take some time, get some tea or coffee, and write out whatever comes to mind regarding that topic. Once I have some thoughts out, I can look through them and see if there’s anything that could be a good line in a poem. I compile these lines or blocks of writing, write some stuff to link it together, then edit it all to make it sound better when read out loud. I find reading my poetry out loud really helpful, whether it’s just to myself, my dog or a friend. A lot of my thoughts or lines get scrapped from poems, but I try to never fully throw away or delete things, because going back over old work can spark inspiration for new work.

What book would you recommend to our readers?

I have to recommend Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai. It’s a semi-autobiographical book written in verse about a 10 year old Vietnamese refugee in Alabama in 1975. It follows her escape from Vietnam and her first year in America. The way it’s written conveys the mind of a 10 year old so well, I can’t properly explain it. Some of the poems read almost like diary entries, while others feel like in the moment thoughts and emotions. It’s a really good read, and definitely impacted how I look at storytelling.

“Sun”

If I am the moon, then she is the sun

Without her I could not shine

She brings warmth to the day when there is none

I am forever blessed to call her mine

Her smile lights up any space

And her laugh will always brighten your day

When I see her, she puts a smile on my face

When she is gone, my charm slips away

Every moment is Heaven with her around

And it will stay that way until we are six feet under the ground

“I’m choosing to”

I’m choosing to challenge binary thinking

I’m choosing to take the boxes

That I’ve been forced into

Crammed into dark spaces

Too small and cramped for me

I’m choosing to tear the boxes to pieces

To claw my way out

Until all that remains

Is shredded cardboard

That will be used as kindling

For the fire that is burning in me

Fire

A word that usually brings to mind

Images

Of chaos and destruction

And I choose to challenge that

I choose to not be a raging wildfire

Just growing and burning

Not caring what I destroy

Maybe I’ll be a crackling fire

In a hearth

Growing at the rate of which others give me fuel

Or perhaps a candle

Steady and reliable

Called upon in emergencies

I’m choosing to leave my options open

To maybe jump between forms

Even revisit wildfire if I see fit

And that suits me more

Than that cold, dark box

That I once dwelled in

#corkcitylibraries #corkinverse

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roo-bastmoon · 2 years

Note

This behaviour Jungkook often has with Jimin is so lovely. To a point that I almost get jealous lol

https://youtube.com/shorts/2WS83bhZTiw?feature=share

Jimin won a prize and got a box as a gift. And in the full unedited episode you can see JK got up the second Jin said to Jimin it's heavy 1:07:09 almost on an instinct, then stood awkwardly for few seconds after Jimin already took it.

https://youtu.be/FKXpZJX3wdg

It's lovely and it doesn't even matter if they are together or not, you can tell the last thing they are is fan service or uncaring friends. I don't see JK often being like that with the others and to me it means a lot

Dear Lovely,

Thanks for this reminder. I think one of JK's love languages may be acts of service (it's definitely one of mine, though, so I hesitate to project onto him). In any case, I love seeing him be considerate and protective.

For me, both small and big ways of helping out are the kind of relationship / energy "transaction" that are really hard to fake.

I can tell you I love you all day long, and it's nice to hear, but I could be lying and it costs me nothing but breath. If I have wealth, I can buy you anything you like, and it requires no sacrifice. But if I carry your bag or make you a meal or help you clean your house or stand between you and the crazy people chasing after you, I'm investing both time and effort that I cannot get back. It costs me energy, and it means I love you enough to want to pay it forward to you, to invest in our relationship. I'd have to be seriously nuts to play a long game like that and consistently show up and pitch in, yet feel nothing in my heart.

That's why, for me, acts of service will always be believed over words of affirmation. I tell you this in case you want to woo me someday, Lovely. ;-)

But back to your point: as I make my way through content as quickly as my deadlines allow, I begin to see that JK thinks and feels quite deeply, even if he isn't always verbal about it. As much as he is "allowed" to in the role of maknae, he supports, uplifts, helps out, empathizes with, coaches, and protects his hyungs. There are some great compilations out there on YouTube of this.

I doubt he'll ever be as comfortable openly demonstrating his inner feelings as Jimin is (nor as physically affectionate as Tae is). When it comes to romance, JK is one of those "go big or go home" types, I think. Grand gestures; permanent ink. Someone once said that art is how he expresses himself and ever since I heard that, I haven't been able to unsee it.

But if you look for quiet moments, Jungkook's loving heart is evidenced everywhere. I see it when he bows, when he helps break down sets after a show, when he cleans up after others, when he speaks in a soft tone, when he gently argues against someone else's self-deprecating talk.

Sometimes I have trouble reading his thoughts or vibe, because he behaves so differently than I would... but I sense that no matter what, he's just a genuinely good person. And nothing brings me keener pleasure than when his attentiveness is focused on my bias, who deserves all the love in the world. :-) But it is important to note, Jungkook behaves this way toward his other members too.

I'll bet you every time Jimin sees him be a good human, he falls a little bit more in love. I know I do.

Yours,

Roo

youtube

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a-adler-arts246-03 · 2 months

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Week 6: Chapter 5 + Music Fest - 2/16/24

It was interesting reading more in Chapter 5 about harmony and the way visuals can contribute to or detract from the message that a designer is trying to get across. Words are primarily a form of language, but it’s easy to forget that they communicate in a visual way too, acting almost as pictures when you look at them as devices for art. It’s always good to remember that the visual arrangement of words can add to their meaning in language if tied in correctly. I’ve learned a lot in college about the harmony of negative space as well, so I found it interesting to look at examples of how using negative space can create really interesting and balanced visuals. The poster and lettering examples in the textbook always help me understand the concepts a lot, and it’s cool to see the different ways similar information can be communicated; one example I thought was especially neat was the set of various layouts using only dotted lines in different colors, weights, etc.

Now that we’re in the last stages of Project 1, I feel like I’ve learned a lot in the process, though I still have some adjustments to make before the deadline. The critique Wednesday was very helpful, and it was good to get feedback on what I can work out before turning it all in. I think my biggest challenge right now will be pushing the social media post to be more interesting; this weekend I want to experiment more with the photos I took at the beginning of the project, and find new ways to work those into something unique. I liked getting to work on merch mockups, and I want to double-check and adjust those before Monday. As for my poster, I have to keep working on spacing to link the setlists for each day together more, and I got some feedback on brightening up the color of the names for the third day so it pops as much as the first and second do. It’s rewarding to be almost finished with it, though, and I feel like I’ve picked up a lot of useful techniques in terms of layouts as well as technical effects with Adobe.

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dat-town · 3 years

Text

not gonna miss this chance

Characters: Han Seojun & soloist!female reader

Genre: fluff

Setting: true beauty au, set a year after the tv show’s ending timeline

Summary: Your career is on the verge of ending, hence your management puts you up to do a duet with the infamous Han Seojun. You have heard too many rumours about him to keep track of and yet, none of them could have prepared you for the feelings that came with meeting him.

Words: 4.1k

Self indulgent little snippet because he deserves happiness too.

You had heard of Han Seojun before meeting him, of course you had. Everybody who was in the industry had heard of the hot trend of a Newstagram star-turned idol and his band's shining debut from a year ago. They were told to have snatched teenage girls hearts all over Korea with their good looks and soulful music. You had heard their title track and you had to admit it was nice but nice wasn't enough in a cut-throat industry like entertainment.

Look at you, starting training at twelve, debuting at fifteen and now barely twenty-one you were on the verge of becoming a thrown away doll. Once you had been called cute and the it girl of your generation and now? People were saying you got boring just because your music had matured. Gosh, you couldn't keep singing about first love like your hit song had been for the rest of your life for god's sake. Your last album had been a flop, your company had been losing money and you were still afraid that even with a year left of your contract, they would cut you. But your manager had begged them for a chance and here it was: a collaboration with the newest love of Korea.

But the thing was, Han Seojun had quite a reputation and you didn't know who to believe. Some said he was well-mannered and hard-working. Others gossiped that he was always flirting with his makeup artists and Chen claimed he had been rude to her even when he had just been a ‘nobody’. Not that you were particularly fond of Chen either but as a fellow solo female singer you were a tad bit worried how the infamous singer would treat you.

Well, standing in front of Move Entertainment, you were just about to find out. Taking a shallow breath you followed your manager's lead, bowing to the receptionist and getting into the elevator after taking your visitor's badge. You had heard the company has gone through many changes after the executives were replaced due to the revealed Seyeon scandal but everything looked expensive, shiny and new, unlike in your small agency.

“Hey, I’m Lim Heekyung, nice to meet you. Seojun will be in a minute, too,” a woman in a pantsuit walked up to you on the right floor with a confident smile as she introduced herself. She led you to a meeting room which was apparently customized for a few people only and started preparing papers. She looked excited which was a relief and nice to see, at least someone from Move Entertainment was happy for this project apparently. You were a bit afraid they would see you like a leech, trying to cling onto their new star’s popularity.

“Shall we start? Seojun is a fan of dramatic entrances anyways,” Miss Lim laughed joyfully as if it wasn’t new to her that the idol didn’t make it on time. Ah yeah, you had heard rumours saying that he had something on the company and that was why they were so lenient with him.

You sat in silence, let your manager do the talk about the collaboration project. Seojun could play the guitar, you could play the piano, apparently it was perfect for a ballad duet, though if you used instruments yourself it added to the preparations time. But luckily, there was a songwriter named Leo at the company who had already sent in a few samples specifically for Seojun, so you didn’t have to start from zero.

“Ah, I see you started without me. What did I miss?” A tall boy opened the door wide and flipped down onto the chair across you casually. He had grown into his lanky limbs and with those wide shoulders hugged by the leather jacket, helix earrings in one ear and soft brown hair brushed to one side, it wasn’t a surprise how many female fans swooned over him. But there were a lot of handsome boys in the business, just his looks – no matter how confident he was in them based on the way he carried himself – wouldn’t make a difference.

Miss Lim patiently let Seojun know about the advances and only when she mentioned your name, did the boy glance at you. His dark brown eyes had a sharp form, just as piercing as his gaze, but the cunning smile spreading over his lips softened it a bit. He looked at you as if he wanted to see through you, to figure out how he should have approached you. You expected a snarky or arrogant comment, but in the end, he just flashed a blinding smile at you, one you could see on his posters, before turning back to Miss Lim.

“What’s the schedule?” he asked simply and you both were notified about the deadline of deciding and finalizing the song, the dates of planned recording sessions and the photoshoot. Since there would be no promotion period, it all would be done within a month and half from start to finish. You were a bit relieved hearing that and leave Move Entertainment without any confrontation.

You thought you were good at masking your wary feelings since the further meetings went well and the first recording session went okay-ish. Although both of you had been a bit scolded by the producer for not putting enough feelings into your singing. He claimed that the demo sent by Leo was much more emotional which made Seojun scoff and mumble under his nose. The PD called it for a day, making you promise to practice for next time and one by one they all left. Your manager told you that he would bring the car while you refresh yourself in the bathroom, so you really didn’t expect anyone to wait for you when you stepped out of the restroom, much less Han Seojun.

"Spit it out," he bit out barely glancing your way as he leaned against the corridor’s wall.

"What?" you spluttered as you were really taken aback by his out of blue appearance and question. The guy let out a tired sigh at your obliviousness and pushed himself away from the wall just to walk up to you, towering over your height with his.

"You look at me as if I killed your hamster or something. Which rumour about me bothers you? I fucking can't keep walking on eggshells around you, especially when it's just the two of us," he tsked and you gulped at the sudden called out. You didn’t think it bothered him, or that he was considerate enough to ‘walk on eggshells around you’, you merely thought he was so distant from everybody. It was still better than what Chen had told you.

"Oh, I… nothing. It's stupid. Sorry," you mumbled, feeling embarrassed for your your actions but Seojun apparently wasn’t satisfied without a real answer as he carried on:

"I didn't bully kids in high school but I threatened ones that deserved it, I didn't only get a pity chance from the entertainment, one of our makeup artists is actually one of my best friends, I'm not…"

"Chen told me you are rude and arrogant and have no respect for girls," you blurted out to stop him from speaking because you felt like you didn’t deserve to hear all that. He didn’t owe you any explanation for the way he was. You were just co-workers for a project after all, you had no place in his life, nor he had in yours, so he shouldn’t have been that bothered by your opinion but you understood that he felt uncomfortable due to your silent accusations.

Hearing your hasty interruption, the singer scoffed, a laugh-like sound leaving his mouth.

"Well, I have no respect for girls like Chen who harass my friends and turn their lives into hell just to go on a date with me," he said and it made you blink slowly.

"Oh."

"Yeah, oh. Check your facts before you go around believing such crap," Seojun stepped back with a roll of his eyes.

The whole situation made you feel made about how you acted, so you wished to apologise but it fell from your lips all too carelessly: "Sorry, I was just worried. This is my last chance, so–"

"Last chance?" the guy quirked a brow at you, curious but you quickly waved his question away.

"Nevermind, I just need this song to do well."

"Of course, it will. I'm Han Seojun, it will turn to gold under my hands," he grinned and made eccentric gestures as if he was about to do magic. You couldn't help a smile. “Or well, vocal chords.”

And turn it to gold, he did.

The rest of your recording sessions went smoother, even the previously grumpy PD complimented your for the development in your chemistry. Funny, you wouldn’t have thought that the wall pulled up between the two of you mattered that much, but at least you didn’t have a knot in your stomach, nor did you worry about every small thing you did around Han Seojun. He also acted more casual, more playful, joking around when both of you had a bit of time to take a breather. He snapped silly pictures, showed off with his height, smirked when he got too close but despite all his bravado and lowkey flirting, you believed even he wouldn’t have jeopardised his career over something like this.

Maybe that's why wrapping up the recording felt a tad bit weird: you got used to his presence, his jokes, his beautiful, deep voice that you could have fallen asleep to. Sure, sometimes he was cocky, a bit rough around the edges but he was a great singer and a fun guy. The project seemed to work out well and you loved it a lot, so you hoped the listeners would appreciate it as well.

But before all that you had one photo shoot together for the promotional pictures and the single's cover. You were grateful for the simple pastel colour background and elegant setting. The warm light latte colour and the clock in the background really fit the song's vibe. Luckily, your dress was decent and pretty as well, you didn't have to feel uncomfortable in it at least. However, you didn’t expect that happy yelp coming from one of the makeup artists stepping into the dressing room. You turned to face the girl, wondering whether she was your fan judged by her excitement.

"Oh my! I'm so happy to finally meet you! Seojun told us about you so much!" she beamed at you which obviously took you back. Well, that you didn’t expect at all. He spoke of you to others? Ah. Apparently to the makeup artist who was most probably that certain one of his best friends he had told you about?

"Don't exaggerate, Imju, I mentioned her like what… once?" Seojun walked in on cue. He rolled his eyes and cleared his throat, trying to avert the topic. "How's Suho?"

You had know idea who that said guy was but after a moment or two you could breathe properly once again while listening to their chatting.

“Just the usual. He’s excited about your duet.”

“Of course, he is,” Seojun grinned, a bit snarky but you could hear the proud undertones of it. When he looked at you, you were surprised by him leaning close though as he quieted down until only you could hear it. “Don’t worry, Jugyeong is really good and just stop her if she gets too gossip-y.”

“Are you talking about me behind my back, hah, Han Seojun?” The pretty girl called Jugyeong raised her fist as if she was about to hit the idol but he just laughed it off and left you two alone when he was hurried onto the set to start with his individual shoots.

“Have you known each other for a long time?” you couldn’t help but wonder as you were seated to get your makeup from her.

“Ah, almost 4 years, I think. We went to high school together. Plus, he’s best friends with my boyfriend. Though, they are always bickering like a married couple,” Jugyeong chuckled joyfully as she started with the cushion. You closed your eyes, listening as she kept going on about the time when Seojun had been obsessed with his motorbike, getting into trouble with his mother. It was strange hearing about a whole other side of him, mama's boy but the image tugged on your mouth, making you smile even though you weren't sure you had the right to know all that. You also learned that Seojun's sister was dating Jugyeong's brother and you felt so involved with the girl's trust albeit it was your last meeting, you were sure Seojun must have only told good things about you.

Hence, you felt shy under his knowing gaze when you walked out of the dressing room. He must have known that Jugyeong couldn't shut up for the life of her, so he looked a bit uncertain, too, stretching the back of his neck, forcing a cunning smile onto his smile when you took your place next to him.

To fit the ballad's theme, the setting was a piano decorated with flowers and you were instructed to sit beside him as if you were about to play a four hands piece. As you did what you had been told, you were very much aware of the way your arms brushed, his long fingers over the keys close to yours, his smile small but genuine.

"Great, great, guys! Someone help her onto the piano and Seojun, stand in front of her," the photographer directed the next scene but before any staff members would have rushed up to you, the singer next to you shushed them.

"I can do it," he insisted as he stood up and looked you in the eyes, silently asking for permission. You nodded while holding your breath back before Seojun put his hands on your waist above the fluffy tulle skirt part and counting on three, he lifted you onto the lid of the beautiful instrument.

You crossed your legs, watching in awe as your pink skirt fell down on waves but your breath hitched for an entirely different reason when you looked up, gaze meeting Seojun's feline eyes trained on you. You had never seen him look at you like that, lacking playfulness or suspicion or curiosity. He looked open, vulnerable, outright starstruck. Your lips parted meaning to ask something but your brain shut off when you heard the shutter of the camera go down and the director yelling compliments at you. It made you snap out of it and later, you blamed the evident blush on your cheeks on the makeup. Seojun blinked too, his guarded expression back in no time, finishing the photo shoot professionally, always lingering close to you, but never touching you. Even though you wouldn’t have minded.

"Hey," Seojun peeked into your dressing room just as you were about to leave, packing up, with a smile on his mouth and sparkles in his deep brown eyes. But unlike half an hour ago when he wore a fancy suit and looked at you like a prince would have looked at his princess, he acted just as casual as he looked in his denim jacket over dark tee. "Wanna grab something with me if you finished for today?"

His question took you back but first thing first you glanced towards your manager, eyes begging for permission which you had gotten with a sigh.

"Just be discreet and call me if you need me to pick you up," your manager shrugged, leaving you two alone with a knowing look that told you to be careful. You didn't need to be told though, you knew how much depended on the current public response to your image.

"Seems like a green light. Have you thought of anything specific?" you turned back to the boy with a subtle smile.

"Not really but I know a few less frequent, secluded places to avoid much talk about us," he said and you nodded, following his lead. Masks, caps and hoodies on, you barely talk on your way to the tent with the lovely ahjumma who welcomed Seojun (two heads taller than her) with a pinch of his cheeks and told you to get seated.

"Are you a regular here?" you inquire, carefully pulling down your mask since not many people are around.

"You could say that," the boy hummed letting you adjust to the place at your own pace, not pressuring you with extra reassessments about how safe it is there. Yet, he is so casual as if he wasn't afraid of a getting mobbed by Dispatch out of the blue. Not that it happened to you a lot of times but you heard stories and at such a crucial time in your career, you feared something like that more than anything.

"Do you want to come up to mine instead?" Seojun blurted out suddenly which made you wide eyed in a span of a moment as you splattered out a surprised yelp. "Come on, I don't mean anything by it. You just look really nervous being in the public," the singer said, his deep voice softening, soothing by the end and you needed to take a breather before answering. You didn't think it was so obvious but apparently you had never been a good liar with him.

In the end, you decided on going over to Seojun's place, so he asked the ahjumma to pack your food to go and you headed towards his flat a few blocks from the company. It was a small but cozy place, much softer and brighter than you expected, lots of pastels and photos of friends and family. While the boy busied himself in the kitchen, getting you plates, chopsticks and beer, you were encouraged to look around and you couldn't help but smile at his photos with not only his band members but high school friends, too. You had seen photos of his graduation with Jugyeong, then another one of his debut with her and another guy. He was a recurring person on a lot of pictures, so you assumed that he was the so-called Suho.

"He's Jugyeong's boyfriend," Seojun affirmed as he walked up to you which you acknowledged with a hum and smiled at his photos with his sister and mother. The makeup artist was right when she said he was only tough on the outside.

"You knew Seyeon?" you whispered as your gaze shifted of a picture of three boys smiling widely into the camera. The middle one was the talented boy you had known from the news of his committed suicide. Such a tragedy.

"Uhum. We were best friends. Him, Suho and me," Seojun nodded and without having to ask, he told you how they had gotten to know each other, what were their favourite past time activities and how they fell apart when he died. You could see he was hurting even now as he was talking about it, so you grazed your fingers against his knuckles as though to say you were there for him to listen, or whatever he needed.

Talking about his best friends and how a group of guys including someone named Chorong stuck by his side over the years warmed your heart. It was nice to know that not everyone had it as lonely as you who basically missed out on high school and memories from that time to be able to turn your dreams into reality. Your only friends were also in the industry but it made things both easier and harder.

"What about you? What did you mean by this being your last chance?" Seojun asked like a loaded gun but after everything he had just told you, you knew you could trust him with this and being in the industry for a while now, he must have understood, too.

You told him about the rising expectations, about your image and your company's ultimatum. It actually felt nice to talk about with someone other than your manager. Especially since Seojun seemed to understand exactly why you felt conflicted over the matter. You have given your youth to this dream of yours, so giving up on it would have felt like betraying yourself and everyone who believed in you but you weren't sure you could give it another 10 years of your life no matter how much you liked music. You had decent CSATs result, maybe you could have applied for a university program. Seojun even offered to arrange a meeting between you and Suho who was studying to become a proper songwriter.

You talked for hours and ate the tteokbokki even though it had gotten cold long ago and you couldn't remember when was the last time you had felt so light. You felt giddy even with just the tiny bit of alcohol in your system by the time you knew it was time for you to go.

Once you had felt relieved knowing that promoting your duet would be only one performance but recently, you started dreading the moment because that meant that you wouldn't have any more excuse to see Seojun. In the backstage, this time around you greeted Jugyeong like an old friend and teased to give Seojun a funny makeup before walking up to your own assigned staff members. Your look was full of sparkles and glow fitting the silver colour of your dress, completing the ethereal vibe off the stage you were going to do and the beautiful song you had grown to love so much you held it close to your heart. The last rehearsals went smoothly and if you noticed Seojun's gaze lingering a bit too long, you didn't comment on it.

"Are you nervous?" he asked before the final recording and you knew it would have been unreasonable to deny it, so you replied with a small smile.

"A bit."

"Don't be. You're pretty and you'll do amazing," he reassured you and the way he said those words oh so easy. As if they were natural. As if he believed in you and maybe this was all the reassurance you needed because when you walked up onto the stage, not taking your eyes off his, it felt like it was just the two of you there. All the stress about not being good enough, about being judged for who you were and what you wanted to do with your life was subsided as you focused on the moment, just to sing this one song with one while trying to fight your heart's crazy beating.

You didn't really have the luxury to have crushes. You had always been concentrated on your work, you couldn't let yourself have distractions, especially since love scandals always affected girl worse than guy. At least that was what you told yourself for always putting up a wall around you and guarding your heart all too well. But during the past few weeks, between playful or flirty remarks, between smiles and ruffling hair, Seojun took apart your wall brick by brick even if he wasn't aware.

So it might have been only a few days since you had last seen him but in that rare moment of boredom, alone in your room, you realized that you missed him. Hell, you liked him and the feeling made me want to scream into your pillow as if you were a silly teenager. As if on cue, your phone buzzed with a new message and seeing the KakaoTalk ID made you shy.

duet partner, han seo jun

so...

i've been thinking

you

sounds dangerous but ok

duet partner, han seo jun

don't get sassy with me, miss

you

what have you been thinking about?

duet partner, han seo jun

that i don't want to miss my chance

there's this girl i like