Cry laughing, you telling Kakashi to move over ON HIS BIRTHDAY 😤

Kakashi: P-p-pwesent? For me? On my biwthday??? Maybe some pwetty art? Some more fic? P-pwease -

Me: move bitch, get out the way

You're Awful, I Love You: Part 19

Enver Gortash/Trans Male Tiefling Durge

Sentry made his way home exhausted that evening, his satchel full of vials, bones, and loot. He'd even found some artificial organs in some of his victims. When he thought about it too much, it filled his throat with bile to think how these patriars could keep themselves alive so easily when the people in the lower city and Rivington struggled. How much must these clockwork pieces cost? He shook his head. His purpose wasn't to worry about how people stayed alive, but rather how to cure them of that very temporary state of being. Though he didn't agree with his father on every facet of his purpose, that was one he happily accepted. There was beauty in death and beauty in the dead.

Sceleritas was waiting to receive his cloak and his acquisitions when he walked through the door of the temple. His remaining siblings sat around the common area, even Orin deigning to grace him with her presence. Sentry nodded. Good, this was the time to re-assign Jackal's position.

“Ah, good to see you all, siblings dear.” Sentry raised his arms with a flourish as he entered the room. “As you may have noticed, one of our number is missing. Our darling brother Jackal decided to try and step above his station” He smirked, shaking his head with a little laugh. “And you know? He didn't make sure he had the power to back it up, so of course he had to be disposed of. Anyway, that leaves our information gathering a little lacking....”

“Hmm...well, we know who it won't be.” Tomi giggled, looking at the tall, dour tiefling standing silently in the corner sharpening her scythe. “Not much of a talker unfortunately. But I'm a very good talker and what's more I'm good at getting others talking. I know secrets even Jackal couldn't discover.”

“A fair point, but then again, some things are easier to learn from the shadows than face to face.” Sentry thought a moment. “And that's why, though it truly pains me given how much she still has to learn, I have to assign this task to sister Orin.”

“A wise choice, O Odious One!” Sceleritas bowed at Sentry's side. “ Further proof that your father was right to make you his chosen. You always have the family's best interests in mind...ah even when the choice isn't the one you'd like to make.”

Orin smirked, rising to her feet and bowing low, exaggerated. Sentry rolled his eyes, well aware of the insult. “Yes, BROTHER dear, I will gather the slithering secrets of Baldur's Grave for our family...Thank you for this opportunity.”

Sentry inhaled deeply. “Orin, I swear...you KNOW the name of the city....you live here. You grew up here....It's...”He winced and breathed out a calming breath. “Okay...nevermind, good. Just...take your job seriously. Do it right. Not like your little corpse tea parties.”

The changeling's expression twitched a moment, smirk faltering to a look of pure malice before she forced the smile back on her face. “Hmm.. yes, chosen. I will begin immediately.” And with that, her smirk widened as she shifted into the form of a handsome, smug looking male elf with silver-blonde hair and pale eyes dressed in paladin armor. “This is a trustworthy face, is it not? I think I'll start with this disguise.”

Sentry paled a moment, looking into the face of one of his early victims, the feeling of Darryn's hand forcing his head against the wall of the room the trainees shared. The sound of him smirking, the feeling of his breath on Sentry's neck, but he shook it off, forcing the rage at Orin for bringing back that memory down. “A bit ostentatious, I think.”

Still, she slipped past him still in the form of the young man who'd terrorized him for most of his teenage years. Shaking his head, Sentry made his way across the room towards his door. A calloused hand blocked his path. Gabraela looked down at him with her haunting eyes.

“You are out on your own far too often, chosen. Jackal was hardly the only threat.” She spoke coldly, but there was no threat to her voice, was it worry? Sentry looked up curiously at her. “I don't think you should make these excursions without myself or Sceleritas by your side anymore.”

Sentry shook his head, brushing her aside. “I'm not afraid of Orin. I am Bhaal's own flesh and blood, not a child in need of protecting. Hells, if I'm too weak to protect myself from pretenders and underlings, I deserve whatever's coming to me.” He laughed as he opened his door and closed it behind him, sitting at his desk and spreading out some sketches he'd been working on.

A movement near the sewer grates at the ceiling of his room caught his eye. A flash of white and orange. Then from one of the ledges above his paintings, a pair of frightened green eyes stared down at him.

“Malta? What are you doing here?” He puzzled, standing up and extending his arms to receive the cat. Malta leapt from his perch and into Sentry's waiting arms, curling up there and closing his eyes. “Did you get lost? I'll bring you back to Wysp in the morning.” He whispered, surprisingly gently.

He deposited the cat gently on his pillow and returned to his work. The current sketch was one of a group of gnolls feasting. In a moment of wild fancy, Sentry had decided to plan a painting with a touch of humor to it. The gnolls were dressed in noble clothing with jewel encrusted dining ware set out on the table while humans and elves were displayed like fine cuts of meat. He supposed perhaps it was a commentary on the idea that beasts were more civilized deep down, but really he had to admit he just liked the idea of those adorable bloodstained beasties all dressed up and having a party.

With the sketch finished, he got up to choose a canvas for it before pausing. “Right...His plan....I should see how that's coming along. Guess I got caught up in the thrill of the hunt.”

I wonder if they are going to add an outcome to keep Pen in Sandrock at the cost of Logan hating your gut. I don't think I would even mind that all that much, consequences like that can be pretty neat in a game like this I think.

It would be interesting! I want to keep them both but it would make sense to go that route. I'd also feel bad since Sandrock is (objectively) more of Logan's home than it is Pen's.

Spoilers!!

Sort of reminds me how in Dragon Age: Origins you get the chance to recruit Loghain at the cost of Alastair. Which, with some characters I like to play, they absolutely would make that call. I mean, when it comes to competency and useful assets, taking a veteran soldier vs a novice warden during a war is better. Apply that here, too.

Factoring in morality and intentions is always important, of course. Pen and Loghain are both traitors and both in possession of experience and knowledge. Alastair and Logan are both products of their mentors (or father-figures) and more green/less in the know of things. You run the risk of unpredictability in a way with the prior two vs the latter two when it comes to loyalty. But if they willingly do wish to aid for whatever reason, they are absolutely more significant assets to have.

Traitor Pen becoming a double traitor? Sharing his knowledge, when he thinks it's relevant to share it. I can think of so many reasons why he'd turn against Duvos sgfdgfhg

I feel like it's potentially something that Pathea wouldn't do just because they seem to prefer operating on more simple means. Which I wish wasn't the case since their games have lots of potential to be bigger and more. They have such fun lore with the ability to be light and dark, and even with some of the ridiculous designs they have it doesn't detract from the meat of the story and characters. I feel like if they are willing to make that effort it would definitely be interesting to the narrative. Choosing between Pen or Logan. Or even finding a way to make them cooperate enough. It would be really cool but I feel like, gameplay-wise with NPCs, things are kind of on par in some places and less in others with engagement in this game vs Portia. But it's also in early access still and despite my full release date worries (if they are happening in the summer still?) I keep trying to just remind myself it could change.

There are a lot of things I'd like to see. I think the potential for Pen exists in a lot of ways to keep him in the narrative and as a returning romance option. Also possible to make it be a choice between Logan or Pen or them just be at odds the whole time, likewise I see potential for positive development if facts are just changed around and Pen not really being honest. That's a whole ass subject in itself though. I just agree it would be interesting if they added more context and game mechanics - especially with these two, since they are rather important to Sandrock's storyline.

Also consequences in games, when done well, are so fun!! I'm so weak for social dynamics having pros and cons with characters and factions. If we have Pen back in our custody at the end of Knives Out, I feel like it's a perfect opportunity to play with consequences or building trust to keep Pen. The idea of options existing interests me. Maybe you can't get through to him so you can only engage with him while he's in prison. Or maybe you can't and he breaks out and stays your enemy. Or maybe you can find even ground and he comes to stand by you/Sandrock/Free Cities instead?

I'm dipping into the whole potential of Pen narratively speaking so I'm gonna cut myself off here. I agree with you on how fun and interesting it would all be!!

NEW MUSIC FRIDAY — JULY 7, 2022: judith grimes has released her third studio album, the second under her label freebird records, a division of Campbell Worldwide Media. Throughout the week, Judith had been in New York City, visiting radio stations and being featured on various late night shows including The Late Show with Stephen Colbert where she performed marjorie live for the first time and Late Night with Seth Meyers.

During her interview with Seth Meyers, Judith talked about how this album really helped her solidify her sound as an artist. "It was nice actually, after spending so long kind of hiding away making all of these things happen, all while grieving the loss of my girlfriend Hannah and grappling with almost losing my brother, everything fell into place. In the thickest part of my grief I wrote the second half of delicate and actually most of afterglow, almost like I could make the grief lighter by writing." Seth then asked about her lead single for the album. "So you chose... not only did you write a song for your mother named marjorie, but you made it the lead single. Why did you change her name?" Judith took a moment before responding. "I didn't get a lot of time with my mom, she and my dad divorced when I five and she died when I was seven. But whenever I went to write the song, I just... for some reason having a song named after her felt too hard to write, but having it be written for her was easier if that makes sense. Kind of like how I wrote dorothea from my best friend Gracie's perspective about a friend who gets famous and moves away, I wasn't going to have it named after myself. It's easier once you remove a small portion of the personal aspect." She explained. "No I get it, you take out the part that makes it almost too unbearable to do, and you make it a little easier to swallow." Seth agreed. "Yeah exactly! And who knows maybe someone lost a loved one named marjorie so they can relate to the song."

The next night, while on The Late Show, before her performance, Judith sat down with Stephen and began with: "Okay, so because you were with Seth Meyers last night I won't ask you specifically about marjorie, which by the way we are all very excited to see you perform." He paused as the crowd erupted into cheers and applause. "I will say, this is one of your first performances in quite some time. Was this a personal choice or did it just not work scheduling wise?" He'd asked. "Thank you for that amazing fanfare by the way, gonna keep that moment in my back pocket forever. But um, it was kind of both. My first album came out and then life was kind of just like: "surprise, we're gonna actually throw you the largest amount of curveballs." so that kind of derailed any plans I had to perform." She explained. "Around then, you also... kind of famously went public with calling out Interscope Records for how they treated your brother, what was going through your head that day?" Now this question did make Judith visibly uncomfortable prompting Colbert to add: "Whatever you're comfortable with sharing of course, I know this is probably a still healing wound for you and your family." Judith gave a grateful smile before continuing: "The main thing going through my head was: I'm about to ruin a career I just started, but at least I'm going to go out on my own terms. Up until that day that I almost lost my brother, I had tried so hard to get his team to notice something was wrong, I tried to get him to notice but it's hard when you're barely seventeen and no one really wants to take you seriously. No one around him saw what was happening, or if they did see then they didn't care and I didn't want other artists, especially young artists like my brother go through that. I wanted them to know what happened, and family before fame every time." Which was met with some awww's and cheers from the crowd.

On the morning of Friday July 7, Judith sat down with Michael Strahan on Good Morning America to promote her album. "Congratulations! I can't believe it, this is your third album and you... you just turned twenty is that right?" He asked her. Judith laughed and nodded along before saying: "That's true I just turned twenty last month. It's been a wild ride." Michael agreed with her saying: "I can only imagine, you and your brother both have had very busy teen years, and in your brother's case early twenties. I'm sure that you've had this question but with both of you being famous, what does your dad think about it all?" Judith paused for a second. "Oooh I don't think I've actually had this question before, maybe Carl has but I mean I'd hope that he's just happy that his kids are doing something they love. You know we get to do really cool things for him, my brother and I. He gets to travel with us and see the world, although I'm pretty sure he's seen New York City more than anywhere else." She paused her answer to wave to her dad who waved back earnestly. "I didn't know he was here with you! I guess that makes sense, okay so let's ask him, Rick how do you feel about your kids being famous? What do you think of it all?" Once the PA had made their way to Rick with a microphone, the father of two answered: "I mean I really am so proud of both of them. They worked hard to get where they are, overcome more than their fair share. To be able to watch them both grow and flourish in their own ways in the same industry is incredible." The answer moved Judith to tears as she was seen grabbing Kleenex once the camera cut back to her. "We definitely couldn't have done it without all of his support, and I think Carl would be okay with me saying that for both of us."

Practicing

Pairing: Jade West x fem!reader

Rating: SFW

Word Count: 1800+

Warnings: mention of drugs

Request: no

AN: I know I’m still not done with requests, but I just really wanted to get in a Jade West oneshot. I don’t think Jade is out of character all that much, but I’d love feed back.

          Things sucked. Like. They royally sucked.

         When Beck and Jade broke up for the second time, it felt like a dark, ominous was looming over the group of talented teens. No one needed to be a genius to realize that both Jade and Beck with miserable. Not just because they were no longer together, but the breakup was emotionally draining.

         And despite it all, y/n couldn’t help but feel a little bit hopeful. She and Jade had been friends since middle school when Jade pushed a boy off his seat because he was bullying Y/n. They were pretty different. Actually very different personality-wise. Y/n was what Jade described as a hippie fairy. Which contrasted Jade’s vampire personality completely. 

         But there were just enough similarities to keep them together. Their hatred for the patriarchy. Interests in a feel-good green herb. They both started practicing Wicca together. And they were killer on the mic.

         It was a fine balance. 

         And over the years, Y/n couldn’t help but fall for the girl. Snarling personality and all. 

         She still recalls when Jade and Beck started dated. How at first she just thought she was annoyed at how Jade didn’t spend as much time with her but later realized that she was indeed feeling jealous.

         She knew it was terrible to be glad they’re no longer together, but she couldn’t help it.

         The first thing she saw when she approached her locker was the dark clothed girl waiting for her; standing cooly against the wall of lockers.

         “Morning.” Y/n greeted her with a smile. Jade hummed her greeting in response, waiting for her friend to get her things from the locker. “How you doing?” Jade sent her a glare, knowing that Y/n what trying to get her to talk about the breakup.Y/n mumbled a “nevermind” and closed the locker.

         “Do you have plans later?” Jade grumbled as the two started to walk to Sicowitz’s class.

         “Uh, yeah. I’m finishing up my script for my play.”

         “The one about the girl who turns into a dragon and then the prince who’s supposed to save her kills her on accident.”

         “That’s the one,” Y/n finger-gunner. “I’m trying to figure out how to make the finally really pull at the heartstrings.”

         “Make it gruesome,”

         “I’ll make a note of it.” 

         The class was already about to start by the time they entered and most people were engaged in their own conversations. Y/n saw Jade and Beck make eye contact. The same longing look on their faces. But stubbornness kept either of them from saying anything.

         “Hey, uh do you want to come over? Help me with the play?” Y/n asked, getting Jade’s attention again.

         “Sure. It’s not like I have any plans.” Jade shrugged before taking a seat upfront.

         Y/n smiled and took the seat next to her friend. A nervous feeling in the pit of her stomach grew as she already started to expect her friend’s arrival.

         “Good day, class!” The eccentric teacher barged into the room. “Your a pack or wolves engaged in a dance party!” He announced, prompting the teans to get up from their seats and act out the prompt.

         Knock Knock Knock

         The front door of Y/n’s house sounded. With a furrowed brow and her hair still wet, the girl opened the door revealing Jade with two coffees

         “You’re early,” Y/n stated the obvious.

         “Only cause I got bored. Now you want your coffee or not?” The dark haired girl outstretched her arm to hand her the tall cup.

         Y/n smiled appreciativly, taking the cup and stepping to the side.

         “Alright. So what does your play need?” Jade asked, already getting down to business. She walked straight to the living room and plopped herself on the blanketed couch.

         “Well, uh. It's mainly the last scene. Where the dragon turns back into a maiden and the prince realizes what he's done.” Y/n described, sitting next to Jade and grabbing the laptop from the coffee table.

         “Ah, so it’s angsty.” Jade smiles and leaned closer to Y/n to get a look at the document with the script.

         “Yeah.” Y/n’s voice cracked as she tried to compose herself over her friends close proximity. “So, I was thinking that once he realizes his mistake, he holds her close. I want him to have a monologue. Describing how he'd never get the chance to talk to her, see her, you know typical human relationship things.”

         “Alright so what's the problem?” Jade asked, not seeing why Y/n needed her there. Not that she was mad, she loved being around her. And truthfully, she missed hanging out and not having Beck in the back of her mind.

         “It just feels like it's missing something. You know.” Y/n said with a tinge of frustration in her voice. “Like. There's something that isn't making the plot complete enough for him to have that monologue. He loves her, but it doesn't feel like he does enough.”

         Without warning, Jade took the laptop from her lap.

         “I’ll read it.” she grumbled. “You go dry your hair or something.”

         “Good idea.” Y/n agreed, leaving the couch and beading back to her bathroom.

         “And order a pizza!” She heard Jade shout.

         It didn’t take long for Y/n to dry her hair and put the pizza order in. And by the time she got back into the living room, Jade was finished with reading over the script. Instead, she was now holding her new pair of scissors and examining the blades.

         “Figure anything out?” Y/n asked, getting the girl’s attention.

         “Yeah.” Jade put down the scissors and turned her body to face Y/n as she came in and sat down. “Your characters don’t kiss.”

         Y/n month dropped and she bit her bottom lip awkwardly.

         “Well, I was thinking about putting one in, but I thought it would be better if there weren’t one. Think about the symbolism behind it. Without the action, it’s expressing how the two never truly experienced being together.” She explained.

         Jade hummed and nodded as if she were understanding.

         “That’s stupid.” she said. Somehow both calmly and aggressively. Y/n furrowed her brow and tilted her head. Asking without words for Jade to go on. “Y/n the script is good, the storyline is paced well, blah blah blah. But the only thing that isn't good is the way you're presenting that they are in love. You want the audience to be heartbroken for the guy, show them that he loved her.”

         “Okay, so, where do you recommend it goes?” Y/n asked, grabbing the laptop and scrolling through.

         “Obvious. Scene 4, during the confession, I think after she falls from the tree.” Jade said. Y/n quickly went there and read it over, thinking about how to go about it.

         “You don't think it's a little fast?” Y/n asked, twisting her face as unsureness creeped into her mind.

         “Course not. You've already presented their infatuation for each other, and after that scene their relationship is already escalating more quickly. If anything it makes more sense.”

         She was right. Y/n knew it. But she couldn't shake the fact that having this discussion with Jade felt unreal. Perhaps because Y/n was crushing on her, but also because while Jade was very knowledgeable in entertainment, relationships were more of a ‘on the surface’ knowledge.

         Typing quickly the placement of the kiss, Y/n let out a heavy breath.

         “And it’s in.” She announced mainly for herself.

         “Good.” Jade nodded, now smirking at her friend. “You wanna see how it flows with the scene?”

         Y/n kept scrolling down the document to the ending, avoiding looking at the vampiresque girl.

         “Uh, ” She cleared her throat to avoid cracking her voice. “What do you mean?”

         “Well do the scene, me and you. As then you can make the final choice on whether you like it or not.” Jade explained casually.

         “Yeah, okay. We can do that.”

         Despite sounding calm and nonchalant on the outside, Y/n was screaming on the inside. Surely Jade wasn't actually intending on kissing her right? They’d work up to it and then stop, right? No kiss?

         “Cool, I'll be the guy and do you have it all memorized?” Jade started, grabbing the laptop and placing it on her lap.

         “Yep, it's all in my noggin.” Y/n knocked on her head awkwardly, receiving a disapproving look from Jade.

         “I’ll start at the beginning of the confession.” The dark haired girl announced, reading the lines. Then she looked up, right into Y/n’s eyes. “Tell me, Ayleth, do you feel what I feel.”

         “Why, I'm not quite sure what you mean, my prince.” Y/n continued, swallowing her nervousness.

         “When you look into my eyes, do you as well feel that fire? The one raging inside of your heart and coursing through you. Making you think illogically, wanting nothing more than to be consumed completely by you.”

         “One shouldn't think illogically. One must think about their duties, their-”

“That wasn't the question.” Jade acted, her usual roughness and anger dropped as she said her lines. “Do you love me?”

         “I suppose it would be unwise to try to divert the conversation.”

         “Most unwise. Especially to your prince.”

         “Well. Yes. I believe I do.”

         There was silence between the two. This was where the kiss was written. In the quiet, they both seemed to be questioning whether they would actually kiss or not. They both leaned in, slowly but surely. Y/n’s heart sped up and she wondered whether Jade was feeling the same. No, of course not. It's part of the scene. She's just acting, obviously.

         The inches between them soon turned to fractions of an inch. And their lips were so close to meeting.

         Knock knock knock.

         They were interrupted by the door. “Y/n pulled away immediately.

         “Pizza. I’ll get it.” She chuckled nervously and got up.

         “They can wait.” Jade said instead. She grabbed Y/n’s wrist and pulled her back down on the couch.

         Before Y/n knew it, Jade placed a firm kiss on Y/n’s lips. Though shocked, Y/n quickly reciprocated the kiss. Jade placed her hand on Y/n’s cheek, while the other girl’s hand went to Jade’s waist. By now, Y/n’s heartbeat was going a million miles per minute and both girls forgot about the person waiting at the door.

         Until they knocked again.

         “Give us a minute!” Jade shouted angrily before turning back to her, uh friend? Y/n was giggling at her rage over small things like that. Jade noticed not only that her dark blue lipstick had smudged onto Y/n’s face, but that she also had a deep red blush that covered her face almost completely.

         “Should we practice again?” Jade asked instead of bring it up. And when Y/n nodded, she didn’t waste another second to lean in again, kissing her with more depth than the one before.

A Princess. A Queen. A Wife. A Mother.

Medieval Au

Princess Y/N Stark of York New must marry a man chosen by her brother, by the time she is 21. Her brother's council have the perfect man in mind, one that is terrifying and hell bent on having his Queen. But Princess Y/N's heart belongs to another, and luckily so does her hand in marriage. 'A princess is far more powerful than a king, my love. You have the power of merging families and kingdoms. You have the power of carrying hopeful heirs to the throne. You have more power than you know...'

Bold italics are flashbacks.

Series warnings: swearing, medieval views on women, arranged marriage, smut, bloodshed, violence, 18+ readers only

Part warnings: talk of arranged marriage, light swearing, slight violence, talk of beheading

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

<Part 5<

Part 6

The days that followed the chaos in the woods went by in a blur. Steven seemed to be in meetings none stop, his council keeping him busier than he would have liked but he was King after all. You were certain you went almost three days without seeing him. But there was always someone to keep you entertained or to spend your time with. You did miss the King's company though.

Not long after the clock had hit midnight on your last night in Brook, you found yourself walking down the hallway toward Steven's study. The sound of raised voices coming from behind the closed door made you stop just before you could raise your hand and knocked.

"ENOUGH!" Steven shouted along with what you assumed was him banging his fist down against a table. "I am not discussing this any further, Sir Alexander, please leave."

You tried to move back as quickly as you could before Sir Alexander opened the door but it seems he was far closer than you had expected.

As he stepped out, he almost bumped into you, glaring down at you like you were something underneath his shoe. "Spying on us, Miss Stark."

You glared up at him, "Certainly not, Pierce, I was about to knock on the door. And have you forgotten who you are speaking to?" You scowled at the man.

"My apologise, Your Highness." He bowed to you half-heartedly before sulking off.

You stuck your tongue out behind the wretched man's back before you turned back to face the door, only to find Steven stood leaning against his desk with a grin. You began to blush as he beckoned you in.

"Not very lady-like, Princess." He teased.

"Don't you mean, Miss Stark," You scoffed and closed the door behind yourself, "God, that man,"

Steven sighed heavily as he nodded and pushed himself up from where he was leaning. "He is infuriating... My apologies for the way he addressed you, Y/N. I will have a word with him." He said as he moved around to sit in his chair.

You shook your head, drifting towards his desk. "No need, Steven. I know what he is like... Unfortunately, he is like most men I have the pleasure of knowing." You scowled.

Steven's brow creased as he looked at you, "I hope I am not included?" His tone was light.

You shook your head with a warm smile. "Of course not, Your Majesty."

Steven watched you as you wandered around his office, running your fingertips over the surfaces. There was something troubling you, he could tell just by the way your brow was knitted together, and the soft pout you had on your lips. You were overthinking, why else weren't you asleep.

"What's troubling you, Y/N?" Steven asked.

You looked over your shoulder to him, taking in a deep breath as you took him in. He wasn't wearing his formal court attire, just a plain white tunic that was open, letting some of his chest hair peak out and breeches and boots. He was stressed, you could tell he'd been dragging his hands through his hair.

"I was thinking of you,"

Steven's face twisted with confusion, "Me?" You nodded turning your head back towards his bookcase. "I don't understand, Princess, why would I trouble you. Have I done something wrong?" He frowned.

"No," You spun around quickly, taking steps closer to his desk. "Of course not." You smiled warmly at him. "You could never do anything wrong to me, Steven."

"I hope so," Steven gave you a pleased smile as he rested his head on his hand, "So if I'm not the cause of your trouble, what is?"

"I-" You let out a frustrated sigh as you fiddled with your own hands, "You mentioned before we were attacked in the woods, something about your council forcing you to marry?"

Steven silently nodded.

"Well, I was just thinking about it... I hope you marry someone who adores you... And truly, cares for you... not just as the King of Brook but, as a person..." You blushed deeply looking down to your slippered feet. You'd forgotten you were in your nightdress. Pepper would have a heart attack if she could see you now. "You're wonderful, Steven..."

Steven groaned as he leaned forwards onto his desk and hid his face in his hands. "... Clearly not everyone agrees with you," He sighed, "Why else would Margeret have done what she had?"

Why indeed? You never understood why the Queen of Brook, Steven's wife, did what she did.

Six months after your 16th birthday, Steven and Margret were married and crowned King and Queen of Brook. They were the picture-perfect couple, or so you would have thought. Steven always been a good king. He worked hard to look after his kingdom. 'Queen' Margret didn't like Steven not paying her enough attention over the eight months they were married, not that she was lacking it and she never had anything to do with the court as a Queen should.

No, Queen Margret was far too busy with her lover. Her lover that was from a neighbouring kingdom, one that was not on good terms with Brook. Steven was a broken man for a long time after learning Margret was with her lover since before they were married.

'You look weak, Your Majesty,' Sir Alexander had hissed, 'You need to make a point with her... you know what needs to be done'. And so Steven had his wife and her lover trialled, they were charged with treason and both sentenced to death by beheading.

"I know I shouldn't speak ill of the dead..." You frowned as you thought about that woman and what she had put Steven through, "But she was a bitch!"

Steven looked up at your outburst, unable to help the crooked smile as he watched your frown deepen. He sighed deeply as he ran his hand over the back of his neck.  "... Sir Alexander seems to think her family is a good one, and I should marry her cousin-"

"Sharon!" You cut the King off, stepping as close to his desk as you could without bumping into it. "Steven you can not marry that woman, not after what she did."

Sharon was just as evil as Margaret, in your opinion. It was obvious she was jealous of her cousin, having had a crush on Steven since they were children. Sharon preyed on Steven's broken heart, wormed her way into his everyday life, trying to replace the woman who had once been his wife.

Just before your 18th birthday, Steven invited you to visit Brook for one of your first trips without Anthony. Steven had promised you could visit when the weather was warmer. He knew how much you loved the ocean there, and he kept his promise.

One night whilst you were having dinner along with Bucky and Sam, and of course Sharon, the men were making jokes, some at their King's expense. They were friends, their titles did not matter when they were joking. That wasn't the case it seemed for Sharon. She'd always hated having you around the castle and Steven because you were a princess and she was Lady Sharon. You weren't aware of her dislike to you, you had done nothing wrong as far as you knew.

"Sir James, you should not say such things in front of the Princess." Sharon hushed the knight that sat opposite you.

You grinned at Bucky, "No need to worry, Lady Sharon, you'd be surprised of the things I have heard whilst these three jest with one another."

"Perhaps it would be wise for you to stop being in their company, Princess. After all, you are supposed to be a young lady and not some thick-headed man." Sharon spoke down towards her plate.

You let out a small giggle, "I knew it, Your Majesty," You turned to look at Steven with a playful grin, "I always said you were thick." You teased, making the men once again start their laughter and jokes.

"How dare you speak to the King like so," Sharon cried out as she swung her arm through the air and hit the back of her hand against your cheek. "You wretched little child."

"Sharon, no!" Steven snarled as he along with Sam and Bucky pushed their chairs back and stood up. You held your face as tears burned your eyes, threatening to fall. "What have you done."

"Lady Sharon, we have no choice but to arrest-"

"No!" You cut Bucky off and grabbed a hold of Steven's arm as he knelt beside you, wanting to check you were okay. Your eyes were wide and teary as you looked into his. "Please, don't. It-it was a mis- misunderstanding, Steven,"

He shook his head as he reached up and slid his hand over your burning cheek. "Y/N, I-"

"Please. You can't-" You sniffled as the tears finally fell. You cleared your throat and quickly stood up, "If, you'd excuse me," You gathered your skirts and began to run towards the doors, slipping through them before they were barely open.

With a heavy sigh, Steven pushed himself up from where he had been knelt beside you and glared down at Sharon. "Why would you do something so ridiculous as that, Sharon?"

"She was insulting you, Your Majest-"

"SHE IS A FRIEND!" Steven snarled.

"SHE IS A CHILD, STEVEN!" Sharon cried as she tried to move closer to him but Steven stepped back and held his hand up in front him. "Steven-"

"I want you gone by first light. You are no longer welcome here, Lady Sharon." Steven turned his back to her, clasping his hands behind his back as he did.

"But-"

"GO!" Steven ordered her.

Bucky and Sam lead Lady Sharon out of the great hall and to her chambers where she was ordered to stay until first light.

However, that wasn't what happened. When Steven had decided to retire to his chambers sometime after the incident, he found Sharon naked in his bed, begging him to forgive her for her actions. Steven ordered her to leave Brook at once.

Steven stood from his chair with a frustrated sigh, "I know, Y/N," He walked around to where you stood and leaned against his desk. "I have made sure Sir Alexander knows I have no intentions of marrying Lady Sharon." He gave you a reassuring smile as he reached up and laid his hand over the cheek that Lady Sharon had hit. His eyes moved to the other one that the bandit had hit, it had bruised quite badly but thankfully the bruise had nearly faded. "I am sorry for what happened that night." He whispered, smiling as you tilted your face into his palm as your eyes closed.

You reached up and placed your hand over his. "It is in the past, Steven, and it's not you who needs to apologise." You smiled up at him.

Steven let his hand fall from your face and quickly pushed himself from where he leaned, clearing his throat. "You best get some sleep now, Princess."

You nodded, "I shall bid you goodnight then, Your Majesty," You turned away from him but before you left, you turned back and leaned up, pressing your lips against his cheek. "I shall miss you." You smiled, "Good night, Steven," You whispered before quickly turning your back to him and leaving Steven's office before he could respond.

He stood there long after you had left. His cheeks were flushed as he thought about your warm soft lips against his stubble. He would most certainly miss you too. He always did.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Taglist: @coffeebooksandfandom @vxidnik @fckdeusername

After the Storm,

Something was Born

Ch 3. DISENCHANTED

Devi could hear the familiar sound of videogames as she approached Paxton's garage. She braced herself for the audience she was about to face as she delivered his homework.

"Sorry to interrupt," she greeted them timidly. Devi did her best to not look hurt at the sight of Zoe's long legs across Paxton's lap. Zoe was doodling her name on Paxton's cast, almost like a large neon sign reclaiming her territory. Devi fought to let go of the bubbling jealousy, figuring he'd never want her name on the reminder of his lost scholarship.

"Cool. You can just leave it right there," Paxton unmoved by her efforts on his art class homework.

Feeling her cheeks flush from embarrassment, she moves to place his homework on the table.

"Yo, you're block the screen!" exclaims Trent. "Damn Crazy Devi, you made me 'splode myself!"

Taken aback to hear her new nickname said to her face, she turned to Paxton for his reaction. He hesitated to make eye contact, but when he did she knew that look. Paxton was embarrassed of her. Of course they would all agree that she's crazy. His silence confirmed what she had been dreading - Paxton would no longer be coming to her rescue. All hope of rekindling any form of relationship was gone, and there was no coming back from what she did.

 

She could hear Shira and Zoe laughing as she left the garage. The numbness was taking over again, Devi didn't bother to wipe the tears falling fast down her cheeks.

 

---

 

Devi had woken up with a headache from crying herself to sleep. Even her dad's voicemail could not lift her heavy heart this morning as she resigned to the fact that her and Paxton were done. Not ready to get up, she stared up at the ceiling until her mother stormed in chastising that they would be late. 

 

Nalini was watching her. She could see past her puffy eyes, knowing well they had been the crying kind and not sleepy kind.

She asks gently, "What's wrong, kanna?"

"Nothing. I'm fine."

"You don't look fine. You look puffy."

"Was just missing dad a lot last night," she said half truthfully. Devi was not prepared to divulge her relationship dramas when she wasn't meant to even have one in her mother's eyes. 

Nalini nods silently in understanding and comes to sit next to her on the bed. 

"I miss him everyday too," Nalini says softly, with a small hug. "

 

---

 

Devi eventually made it to school. Albeit twenty minutes late, her mother had surprisingly let it slide. She was grateful for feeling closer to her mom since Malibu. An event made possible by Ben. This reminder sent her into a spiral of hypotheticals of how she wouldn't be in this mess if she had chosen Ben to begin with. 

 

Fortunately for Devi, she did not have Facing History with Paxton that day and Ben was still avoiding her. She was grateful for this small silver lining on a day she was feeling at a new all time low. As an additional security measure, she recruited Fabiola and Eleanor as her Paxton "scouts" so she wouldn't be surprised to see him round a corner between classes. Devi texted Paxton to say she would stop by in the afternoon to collect today's homework assignments. By then she would no longer be puffy, and it minimised another opportunity for Trent to publicly acknowledge her as Crazy Devi.

 

"Why didn't I just pick Ben in the first place? He was all in," Devi grumbles bitterly. "At least he has the decency not to have moved on already like Paxton. I should have just let Ben kiss me at his party. Then Paxton would never have taken me home that night, and then I-"

"Wait, what?" Eleanor interrupts in shock. You didn't tell us Ben tried to kiss you?" 

"Well we weren't really talking remember, but yeah, twice actually," shrugs Devi.

Fabiola and Eleanor looked at each other unsure how to best advise her.

"Look Devi, what's done is done. You can't dwell on these choices you've made. You would have regretted it either way and you know it," Fabiola says wisely.

"Yeah, you've been in love with Paxton since the third grade. You had to see it out to the end," Eleanor laments thoughtfully.

Sinking her head into her crossed arms, Devi sighs, "That ending really sucks."

 

---

 

Devi could hear Paxton laughing as she entered the dining room. She smiled apathetically as he started to detail his Biology and Spanish homework assignments.

 

"I already filled in huevos," pointing to his eyes proudly.

Did he really just say eggs in Spanish? Wrong, you are so wrong.

The disenchantment had settled over Devi. She reflected back on when she had prayed for a "stone cold hottie that could rock her all night long." Devi had never thought Paxton was dumb, but that wasn't his brightest moment. Guess you really should be careful what you wish for.

 

"Bueno. Muchisimas gracias. Adios," replied Devi. The confusion on Paxton's face just made it more evident that he was apathetic to all his classes.

"I'll get these to you tomorrow," she answers flatly, no longer having the energy.

"Oh," says Paxton. 

Devi was met with a warm and familiar face as she turned to leave. "Oh, hey Rebecca! Cool fit as always."

"Thanks, Devi," she grinned back.

"See ya," Devi nods goodbye, feeling a little brighter that at least one Hall-Yoshida still liked her.

vampire MC x human Yoongi (aka the one where Mc and Yoongi are mates)

mentions of blood loss, killing of infants, parent death, vampires are cunts, also heavily unedited as all works are when I post

others

It'd been almost three months since you'd fed from Yoongi. His heart ached at your silent treatment of him. He'd smashed his phone after a month of you ignoring his calls and messages. He was a mess, blonde hair now showing the roots, eyes adorned with deep heavy purple bags from lack of sleep. The worst was that he'd wracked his brain for possible ideas on what he'd done wrong. He always came up with the same idea; you hadn't really loved him. Sure you'd begun dating under the rule that it was only so you could feed from him. But something had changed in you, some odd weeks later you'd taken less of his blood. Only feeding from him every Sunday, you still came around though often times just to hang out, go out, and sleep.

It was no wonder he'd grown accustomed to your presence in his apartment. It was during a feeding you'd taking a bit too much, so much so he'd weakly had to push you away as he pressed the silver ring on his finger into your arm. His barely coherent mind caught the sizzle from the silver making contact with your skin before you pulled away. Lips stained red, eyes wide once a beautiful shade of brown now glowing carmine. It faded in seconds your eyes quickly darting over his somewhat unconscious form lips trembling as your tongue wrapped around the abundant apologies fleeing your being. Your tongue felt heavy in your mouth as you realized what you'd done. You'd fled after sealing the wound and that was the last he'd seen of you.

Yoongi after so much time had made up his mind, he'd go to your house and get you to speak to him. He deserved an explanation, that was the least you could do. So he pulled on a jacket and headed out. His mind was so busy he'd made it there faster than he anticipated; and now stood before the door to the giant Victorian. A heaviness he hadn't felt before suddenly sat atop his shoulders with feet cemented to the ground. His game plan had been simple, show up, get an explanation, make up and then leave. Simple right? Except now it didn't seem like it. His heart hammered in his chest reminding him that he was in front of a house filled with vampires and he was very much human. So human in fact it took him promptly five minutes to finally notice that Jimin had been sitting just outside the front door. A small hesitant smile lining his lips that could turn any hetero man in an instant.

"Jimin, how long have you been there?"

"Long enough besides I knew you would come around sooner or later."

"Did you foresee this moment?"

"No, I'm just good at guessing games; and you forget I'm a half-blood. We don't get fancy powers like the pure bloods."

"Then how could you possibly know I was going to be over today? I'm here to talk to _____."

"I didn't. I assumed you would but I don't think it wise for you to be here."

"Why?"

"You do remember that you're human right? I mean how can one not realize their own mortality."

"Of course I know I'm human what does that have to do with _____? Is there something you're not telling me?"

"Hyung would kill me if he knew what I was doing. Lets take a little walk and while we're at it how about we have some story time."

"I'm not up for your crap right now. As your hyung I want to know where _____ is."

"In human years of course but I'm way older than you. Born in the 1400's, so that would make me a hyung by default no?" Yoongi sighed heavily watching as the young vampire stood, dusting off his jeans and casually walking down the steps.

"Your not allowed to see _____."

"Why not."

"She's gone on a rampage. So Hoseok had to lock her up to keep her safe."

"What do you mean by rampage?"

"You see pure bloods and half bloods differ only slightly. Half bloods are always from a vampire mother and human father. Pure bloods have both vampire parents except all vampire females are half bloods and all if not most males are pure bloods. Thus creating a pure blooded vampire such as Hoseok, and Jin. Namjoon and I are half blooded born from vampire mothers and human fathers. We're born with no special power, our fangs are shorter and appetite can be quenched with both human food and blood."

“So then what is _____?"

"She's a rare type of vampire. One of the few female pure blooded vampires in all existence."

"I don't understand just how many pure blooded female vampires are there?"

"In Korea, just two including _____. On the world, about 40 give or take."

"That number seems surprisingly low."

"Oh it is. The Vampire court usually keeps count of how many vampires consummate and spawn children. Those vampires belong to a smaller group called a coven and even smaller more family oriented clans. Our clan has tried our very best to keep _____ away from the watchful eyes of the Vampire Court."

"But why?"

"Pure blooded females are stronger in every manner. They'd easily outnumber vampire males 7 to 1 just like human females. Except instead of oppressing them like you humans do the vampire court eliminates them the day after their birth." Yoongi visibly recoils at the thought of killing babies, babies whom haven't done a single bad thing in their lives.

"It seems extreme to most and many clans are trying to fix this issue but we're not a democracy. Our entire existence is thanks to the monarchy, but just because they are stronger doesn't mean that they come without faults. _____ was born during a time where most were afraid to find out that their child was a female. We'd had some incidents where pure blooded females rampaged destroying entire towns and cities; so the court declared all female pure blooded babies be eliminated thereafter."

"So then how is _____ alive." Yoongi asked as he followed Jimin around the house and towards the forested area out back.

"_____ and I are distant relatives, hence the surname Park. Her mother was actually related to mine by some way or form. When her parents conceived they felt her automatically. Strange thing at that to be able to feel your child when she's so little just barely forming; but her mother did. So she reached out, and Hoseok came to stay with _____’s original clan keeping Namjoon and I updated. ____’s mother feared her daughters well being that she couldn't even see a doctor. So Hoseok had one brought in, one he knew could be trusted. That's when we met Jin. He'd stayed until _____ was born, unfortunately her mother died during childbirth. Her father had already agreed that Hoseok would take her and raise her as his own just like he'd done for Namjoon and I. Except he made Hoseok promise to fulfill his final wish."

"I don't even want to ask what that was."

"He asked Hoseok to burn down her estate. The rest of the clan was fine dying in the fire if it meant that _____would live. Hoseok gave us all a choice, die with the rest of _____ clan, keep this secret and stay in his clan or run with the fear that he'd find us and kill us if we ever mentioned her true heritage. It was a simple answer for all three of us; we'd been so enamored with her that we couldn't leave."

"Still doesn't answer how she went on a rampage." Yoongi pointed out.

"Your a fool to think that your special, but more a fool am I to not understand just how special you are to her. She's had human lovers before, and is the reason why we've chosen to only feed off animals. I've seen her slaughter entire towns because of her hunger for human blood. We keep her off it for her own safety; and she's been pretty good about it for a long time now. It isn't until she met you that she's begun to degenerate."

"Why's that?"

"Because you are her mate. The universe put you out in the world to be with her or be the end of her. All beings have a mate, human senses just aren't as fine tuned as the supernaturals. The day you met she knew, Hoseok made it so that she never went unescorted anywhere. We knew she snuck out just not where to, or who to. We knew she was feeding off something just not what exactly. She was always freshly cleansed smelling of fruits. Yet recently there was a stench that clung to her. Something foul and so pungent it would linger festering until the day she came home. Blood staining her clothes, tears clinging to her lashes and that crazed look in her eyes we'd all recognized."

"And that's why you locked her up."

"No, she asked us to. She begged us to do it, clung to Hoseok until he agreed. She's been here ever since."

"She chose this?"

"She did this for you, you are her mate just as she is yours. She'd do anything to keep you safe even from herself."

"Can I see her, I mean is it okay for me to see her?"

Jac & Savannah

Jac: Feel totally free to ignore this, and this isn't an attempt to further any more conversation between us again if you don't want it, but it would feel bizarre to pretend...well, that we hadn't known each other before, or that I'd forgotten you entirely, so Jac: Obviously things weren't great when you left but I'm fully over that as no doubt you are too Jac: As we're classmates again, it makes sense to me that we are civil and prepared to work together if necessary but I'm not going to attempt more than that, nor am I holding some kind of grudge which would prohibit the former, I thought I'd reassure you of that, as well as just say, hello, I suppose 🙂 Savannah: You're right, it would be bizarre as well as counterproductive Savannah: though, we don't actually know each other any more, two formative years having passed, so I don't see why we can't start over Savannah: treating each other like we would our other classmates Jac: That sounds logical to me too Jac: I'd be happy to treat this as an introduction opposed to a reintroduction Savannah: okay Savannah: but before we do, I just want to say I'm really proud of you for getting in Jac: You too Jac: it's amazing, isn't it Jac: better than we had even visualized and worked and prayed for Savannah: I always knew you could do it Jac: I had no doubts about you, either Jac: potential that you'd changed your course and vision but whatever you put your mind and talent to Savannah: I did think you'd go to Bath, or that I would Jac: I could lie here and say something about preferring the history and culture of Edinburgh as a city, and finding St Andrews better in X Y Z but Jac: Bath didn't happen, is the reality of it Jac: but I'm not devastated, as I once would've been to be left with my 2nd choice Savannah: We don't have to lie, it didn't happen for me either, partly because catholic school did of course, but that's not the entirety of it Jac: I try to leave lying, however innocuous and pointless, two years ago, too Jac: Karma or otherwise, just stopped feeling worth it Jac: how was your new School? Savannah: A lot of things stopped feeling worth it to me too Savannah: Oh, Sienna liked it Savannah: I did not Jac: I am sorry to hear that Jac: I can't think of anything I would've liked less than being surrounded by other hormonal, crazy, moody, bitchy teenage girls either Savannah: at least she thrived, you wouldn't even recognise her now Savannah: she's so Savannah: Loud Jac: 😂 Jac: Loud can be good Jac: at least some positives came of it all Savannah: she reminds me of how I remember Jude Savannah: but she's happy, I think Jac: I think you'd still have recognized Jude Jac: likely from a mile off, giving you time to escape Jac: I hope she is Savannah: 😄 Jac: and that you'll be happier here than you were there, too Savannah: unless either of my parents enrol, we can take that as a given Jac: I'll drink to that Jac: complimentary coffee, that is Savannah: for now anyway Jac: Hopefully the plans get a little more exciting Savannah: 🙌 Jac: Have you heard any Psych school nights being organized or do you think one of us should bite that bullet and start the group chat? Savannah: we should do it Savannah: best foot forward, you know? Jac: Absolutely Jac: Why not, eh Jac: You're in halls too, right? Savannah: Yes Savannah: where are you? Jac: John Burnet, how about you? Savannah: You only get a single bed too! Savannah: I'm in University Hall Savannah: it's so pretty Jac: The nuns taught you well then 😛 Jac: I think it's worth it for the architecture, we'll just have to remember not to roll Savannah: 👼🏾🙏🏾 Savannah: It wasn't worth ANOTHER argument with my dad about co-ed Jac: and you get to have the Libraries literally right on your doorstep Jac: I was debating it, but I'm still better in smaller crowds, that sold JB to me ultimately Savannah: if my dad didn't run my life I totally would've applied there too Savannah: I love that it has a garden Jac: I know, right? Jac: Well you can use my little patch of 🌷 🌹 🌺 🌸 🌼 🌻 whenever you like, because I'll certainly be haunting the libraries enough Savannah: You haven't lost any of your sweetness Savannah: & of course you must, I hate studying alone Jac: I'll probably be tragically uncool forever, our classmates may as well find out sooner rather than later 💁 Jac: if the sight of all those books gets too much, there's always the 🏖 for maximum studying, I'm sure Savannah: No way! I had more fun with you than I've had with anyone else EVER Savannah: they'll find all your good points Jac: 😊 Jac: Okay, we did have some fun Savannah: a lot Jac: I can't/shan't disagree with that Savannah: it doesn't feel like two years Savannah: sometimes more like twenty, or like two months Jac: It is really weird, I felt like I haven't said it because it can't be overstated Jac: but good weird Jac: are any of your friends from Sligo here too? Jac: I don't know anyone Savannah: I don't know anyone either Jac: A familiar face is a good thing Jac: as is getting to know each other afresh, they can coexist Savannah: I thought it was for the best that nobody followed me here, until I saw you Jac: Shocking as it was Jac: glad the 😱 isn't permanent Jac: I'd hate to do that to you, honestly Savannah: you don't believe I could pull it off? Jac: Of course you could Jac: but your 😄 is undeniably a better look Savannah: my lips ARE very big, I could end up looking like a blow up doll if I'm forever open mouthed from today onwards Savannah: then I'd never marry a prince Jac: Why we're here, obviously Savannah: Everyone thinks so Savannah: just because my boyfriend dumped me after the leavers cert Jac: Oof Jac: that's rough Jac: though at least he didn't steal your Summer? I guess Savannah: Oh my god! That's exactly what he said Savannah: no wonder he reminded me of you Jac: Oh God 😬 are you suggesting I should be in Sallies with the rest of the fuckboys? 😂 Jac: not the crowd I was hoping to get in with but, you know Savannah: where you are is perfect for you Jac: 🤞 Savannah: it feels right being here Jac: Yeah Jac: it really does Savannah: I was worried I wouldn't feel that when I actually got here but 🙏🏾 Jac: I thought it'd be scarier being away from home Jac: but if anything, it's a relief Savannah: you don't have to share a room with Jude any more, it obviously would be Savannah: how is everyone though? Jac: 🍵🙊 Jac: No, they're good, all doing their own thing Jac: Jesse's got his music, the kids are the same old Jac: oh, Jameson got a girlfriend though, that's cute Savannah: I can't believe one brother is literally famous and the other is adorably loved up Savannah: Sienna hasn't had a boyfriend yet, I think that's my fault Jac: Honestly, they're both unbearable now 😏 Jac: overprotective big sister vibes or off-putting dumping ex? Savannah: Jesse was always an acquired taste, which I never did Savannah: Oh, both, for sure 🤫 Jac: Musically and personality-wise, he'd agree you have a point Jac: long as she's happy, like you said Jac: always found them too distracting myself Savannah: I suppose I just always needed a distraction Jac: Clearly, that's why we aren't having this conversation in Bath Jac: for the best, in the end 🌌🔮 Savannah: I hope so Jac: Honestly, it's a better uni Jac: and I'm not just lying to myself/you to make us feel better 😂 Jac: Delia Rockford, you remember her, right? Jac: She got into Bath, so, you aren't missing out, is what I mean Savannah: I hate her Jac: She's doing International Management and German Jac: the language of the future 🤨 Savannah: She's German descent! That's basically cheating Jac: You'd think she's got a place at Cambridge studying classics the way she's been bragging Jac: they aren't remotely top in languages or whatever the hell International Management is but alright 🙄 Savannah: I'm so glad she blocked me after what happened during the party at Michelle Brennan's house Savannah: which wasn't even my fault Jac: Now that feels like a million years ago Savannah: It was Savannah: I don't think we were even friends yet Jac: We weren't for that long, in the grand scheme of things Jac: that's the weirdest part Jac: we were pretty intense, yeah Savannah: everything was pretty intense Jac: It was Jac: Isabelle is doing coaching at TUD Jac: we were never really the same but she's well in herself Savannah: She'll be incredible at that Savannah: if it had happened to me, there's no way I would've not been retaking the year Jac: I know Savannah: did you hear about my mum? Jac: No, I don't think I did? Savannah: she'll appreciate it not being common knowledge, I guess Jac: Is she okay? Savannah: She's doing better now Savannah: which I suppose means she's at about the same level as she was before I left Savannah: because she really struggled after Jac: It must've been really hard for her Jac: to have you two gone, and realize it probably was for the best Jac: did you see her much, in these two years? Savannah: not as much as I should've Jac: You can't be blamed for that Jac: you had to take care of yourself, and Sienna Savannah: but she needed me to stay Jac: Maybe she needed to sort herself out Jac: and she's getting there Jac: our parents shouldn't be our responsibility Savannah: It has to work out here, you know? Savannah: I can't go back Jac: Of course it will Jac: you're going to be fine, amazing Jac: and then you can do your masters and your Ph.D. and then marry a prince and you'll have several royal residences, neither of which will be in Dubo or Sligo Savannah: I'm just sick of things being painful, difficult is fine, but I want it not to hurt Savannah: which is a HUGE overshare if we met today Jac: it's cool Jac: I hear everyone is best friends for life fresher's week Savannah: that makes me feel a lot better Savannah: especially when I pause to consider how many of them I'm likely to cry on before it's over Jac: It's basically tradition Jac: you won't be the only one Jac: moving forward, it's bound to make you think more about what you're leaving behind, even if temporarily Savannah: I've missed you Savannah: sorry if that's like leaping over a boundary or something Jac: I wouldn't have bet on that being what you said, should I ever see you again Jac: but it's better than what I would've Savannah: It's not like this with anyone else Savannah: I can't change that Jac: I never really Jac: like I went out, people would talk to me, I'm not trying to sell a sob story here Jac: but you're right Jac: it was never the same with anyone else, not remotely Savannah: I've given you mine already, so if you have one, it's okay to tell it or not Savannah: even if I'm so embarrassed I did that Jac: Seriously, no need Jac: you were there to witness my unfinest hour Jac: I treated lots of people like shit Jac: Is, mainly Jac: but you too, in lots of ways Jac: not proud of it, but I changed, still am, hopefully Savannah: I hope you don't change too much though Jac: Yeah? Savannah: I thought you were perfect how you were Jac: And I'm the sweet one Savannah: we both made mistakes, but that's human Jac: It's been a while since anyone's accused me of being human Jac: all those exams Jac: 🤖 felt more fitting Savannah: & you look so 👼🏻 Jac: You look as flawless as you ever did Savannah: My auntie mailed all her good skincare to Sligo Jac: expect no less 🙌 Savannah: the fresher air was 🙌 Savannah: even if the rural accents took me by surprise Jac: 😵 or 🥴 surprise though? Savannah: not like 😊 😋 😍 😘 🥰 Jac: the accent here is pretty 🤭 Jac: though Savannah: which one? 😄 Jac: Valid Jac: very town VS gown Savannah: which one though? Savannah: tell me Jac: The original Savannah: very Romeo & Juliet of you Jac: Oh no Jac: am I that cliche now? Savannah: we'll see Jac: Sounds slightly concerning Jac: but I'll do my best to subvert expectations Savannah: it'll be concerning if you get distracted by some boy's accent after working this hard to get here Savannah: unless he's a prince, obviously Jac: Not changed that much Jac: I'd get disowned if I married royalty, anyway Savannah: 🚫💍👰 Savannah: just adorable heirs to the throne Savannah: 👶👶👶👶👶 Jac: adorable, illegitimate bastards ❤ Savannah: yes Savannah: or is that another cliche? Jac: Probably Jac: although if we are educated, career women now, any babies is beating expectations Savannah: except not really because every career woman is also determined to become a mother & prove she can have it all Jac: 🚫👶 it is then Jac: maybe a dissertation topic, at any rate Savannah: 😢 Jac: 👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾 Jac: many as you like Savannah: they all need best friends Savannah: you have to stick to the plan Jac: Can I get through freshers first? Savannah: 🤞🏾 Jac: Please, I'm no amateur Savannah: I hope not, I'm single & the point is we do it at the same time Jac: as am I Jac: not feeling any 1st year that hard, thanks 😏 Savannah: you always date older, it's fine Jac: None of our lecturers were the one Jac: another cliche avoided Savannah: I'm not sad about that Jac: There's enough inequality of power about without actively seeking out the dynamic, agreed Savannah: ^^ Jac: the fashion show seems to have got the diversity memo though Jac: could be cool Savannah: it's going to be the highlight, I can feel it Jac: 😄 Jac: I was thinking Tues for our psych night, as nothing much is really going on Jac: what do you think? Savannah: good idea Jac: 👍 Savannah: I'll start the chat if you want Jac: You were always better at talking Savannah: when it's not that important, but when it matters, you always know exactly what to say Savannah: at least to me Jac: You're easy to talk to Jac: in a way I really could never work out Savannah: There's nobody in my life right now who would agreed with that Savannah: so it must be you Jac: my inbox full of unreads would say otherwise but Jac: I'll take it Savannah: okay, it's us together Savannah: does that make you happier? Jac: Better Savannah: your hair got really long Savannah: I'm BEYOND jealous Jac: You've got no reason to be jealous of any other girl in the world Savannah: you're not any other girl in the world Savannah: 🤫🤫 Jac: 😶 Jac: Promise Savannah: it looks beautiful, I can't cope Jac: My 😳 will not Savannah: 💗 Savannah: 🌷 🌺 🌸 Jac: Is that a dress code? Savannah: well NOW it is Jac: 😂 Jac: My wardrobe can accomodate Jac: cheers for the heads up Savannah: you're welcome Savannah: & we're all set until 💬 Jac: I better let you get on then Savannah: was it that good of a conversation starter? Jac: Solid Jac: will scare off anyone 😱 of 💗 🌷 🌺 🌸 Savannah: well I obviously don't need that negativity in my life Savannah: but I didn't mean to end this conversation Jac: We don't have to Jac: What are your plans for the rest of the day, now the obligatory are over? Savannah: don't judge me, because I know I sound like a different person, but I haven't made any Jac: Thank God, me neither Jac: I didn't know how long any of that would take Jac: nor unpacking, which is technically done but that says nothing about the decorating I wanna do Savannah: I could help Jac: Or, slightly more fair, we could check out the town, see what shops are about? Savannah: I'd like that Jac: Cool 🙂 Jac: let's have half an hour to debrief and make sure we don't look 😱 and then head out? Savannah: okay Savannah: you can put your hair up & save my life Jac: oh 🤫 Savannah: I am serious Savannah: 🚗 🚕 🚲 are distraction enough Jac: You could rock a cast Jac: but I won't let it happen Savannah: what would you write on it? Jac: That's a good 🧊breaker Jac: but I'll have to keep that secret for now Savannah: if I ask everyone on Tuesday, will you tell me then? Jac: It's a deal Savannah: it is