RWRB Fic - Living in a Snowglobe

So guess who totally fell for Tumblr going crazy over the upcoming movie of a queer rom com book and decided to check it out, only to read the book in a to day haze and fall head first into the fandom? Real life won't let me watch the movie for a bit, but if the gifs I'm seeing are any indication, it looks like a damn good movie.

Anyways, like I said the characters hooked me enough to write for the first time in months, and for the first time in a different fandom from the one I had been writing in for a year.

Here's the fic. (Read on AO3 if you prefer)

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The only sound in the brownstone was the background music of David Bowie drifting from the record player in the second floor. The house's three occupants were piled in the third floor, David (the dog), fast asleep and snoring in his bed in the corner, while his human companions cuddled on the large windowsill at the far end of the room.

Henry sat with his back against window frame, one leg stretched as far as the hollowed out seat allowed, one pillow pressed between him and the chilled panes. His other leg bent to support Alex's back. In his arms, curled up against his chest, was the heavy weight of his beloved.

Alex was dozing, breaths slow and long, with his eyelashes fluttering at each exhale. He had Henry's left hand in his arm, clutching it like a stuffed toy, while his right arm loosely held Henry's waist.

The hand Alex had not captured was lazily caressing him, Henry running his fingers up and down the length of the sweater covered bicep, his own eyelids heavy as the past few weeks worth of activity settled into his bones.

The last 2 months had essentially consisted of Henry and Alex being boats passing each other in the night as they alternated being in the city, with Henry traveling to London at his brother's behest, and Alex went to help his dad with his campaign. And even when they were both in the same city, between Alex's classes and internship, and Henry's shelter's expansion they barely had time for anything beside curling into each other at night. More often than not, one or the other woke up alone.

Now though, with an unexpected blizzard bringing New York to a halt, Henry and Alex used it to catch up on their time spent apart. Henry had worried about these type of conditions being when his shelter would be most useful but also most vulnerable.

RRR - Honey Gold Eyes and Tiger Cubs

Hey guys, long time, no write. Real life has been really busy and I’ve just not been feeling that spark from before. I am not sure how many more stories I will manage to write for the fandom, or how many people are even reading my stories, but I did want to contribute to the Tales of the Tiger 2023 (@talesofthetigerrr) event. 

It’s really rough, and I am definitely out of practice, but I think it turned out ok in the end. Let me know what you think!

///

Bheem puffed up his chest, chubby fist tightening around his small wooden stick. He adjusted the small sling bag his Amma had given him that morning. He gazed around the tall trees, craning his neck as far back as he could to see if something looked familiar. His Nana was going to be mad Bheem had wandered away. Again.

But there had been a really pretty baby squirrel. He'd just wanted to see it closer. He didn't realize he had wandered from the group until he lost sight of the animal. And now he couldn't find them. Oh, they were going to be very angry.

Bheem bit his bottom lip, hard. He was eight years old! He could find his way back! He was one of the best trackers. Peddanna had said so to his Nana. Bheem had heard him, even though he was actually supposed to be asleep. Peddanna said he could even become the Protector one day. Protector! Him!

Bheem had had to curl into a ball to keep from shouting from joy! Everyone knew the Protector was the strongest and bravest and cleverest and coolest person in the tribe! Everyone. So, if Bheem was going to become a Protector, he was not going to be scared. Or cry. And when he made his way back to the village all by himself, Amma would make him a big plate of laddu all for him.

He tried to retrace his steps. He had come from the direction opposite of the sun, so if he walked toward the sun, then maybe he could find his friends. He walked forward, eyes darting between the trees to see if he could catch sight of anybody.  He focused so hard on what was ahead, he forgot to also pay attention to his feet.

Accidentally stepping onto a slippery patch of mud, Bheem flailed as he fell roughly to the ground, hissing as rocks scratched his arms. He pushed himself up, falling back on his butt. He bit the inside of his cheek harder as he ran a hand over his red arm, whimpering when it made pain shoot up his arms. Moving slowly, he brushed away the tiny rock and leaves still stuck to his arms and knees.

He took in a few deep breaths, wiping away furiously at the tears in the corners of his eyes. He was not going to cry!

He reached to grab his stick, slowly rising to all fours, and then stood up. He checked that nothing had fallen out of his bag. He took a few more steps, this time, eyes firmly on the ground in front of him till he reached a more well worn dirt path. A road! If the ground was so clear that means other people must come this way often! If he just followed it, he was going to go home!

Pleased at himself, Bheem started to walk down the path.

But.

Wait.

Bheem froze midstep.

Which way was home? What if he was going further into the forest?

Nana always said it was dangerous to be alone in the forest at night, especially if you didn't know that forest.

Bheem definitely did not know this part of the forest.

Bheem bit his lip as he swiveled his head both directions, trying to find a clue for which way led home. As he stood there trying to decide which way to go, he heard a weak whimper.

Someone else was nearly!

Could they be lost too? Bheem perked up. If he could find the other person, then surely between the two of them they could find their way home. Amma always said two heads were better than one.

"Hello?" Bheem called out.

No reply.

Maybe they hadn't heard him.

"Hello?" Bheem shouted, cupping both hands to make himself sound louder.

A couple of birds that had been resting on a nearby tree took off, but there was no response. Bheem didn’t think he should call out again. What if he woke up a bear? Bheem had seen a bear the hunters had killed. A bear would probably step on Bheem and not realize it.

Bheem chewed on his lip. What if the other person was also hurt? Bheem was not very big, he didn't think he could help them much. But maybe they knew the way home! And he could go home and bring help!

Amma always told him that he should try to help people as much as he could though.

Decision made, Bheem squeezed his eyes shut and listened as hard as he could.

RRR RPF - Your Child’s Love

A little drabble for a moment shared between Tarak and his son. I just had an image pop into my head of this, and built a story around it. I typed it out on my phone, so apologies if I missed any typos. 

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Tarak laughed as he let himself be pushed back against the couch arms, keeping his arm steady for Abhay to clamper up to sit on his chest.

He was exhausted, having just finished a song shoot out of the state that had kept him from home for a week. It felt like his son had grown far too big in the handful of days he'd been away, and though his eyes strained to stay open, his heart wanted to spend every second since he got home with his son in his arms.

A glance at the doorway showed Pranathi leaning against it, a look of utter contentment on her face that settled Tarak's own heart. The pregnancy bump was not yet visible and they'd only told their closest relatives, wanting to hold on till after the third month to make a proper announcement. He held out his hand to her. Pranathi came closer, settling at the edge of the couch where he had bent his knees. She grabbed his hand, squeezing it when she placed her own hand in.

"Nanna!" Abhay squealed as he rubbed his cheek against Tarak's. Tarak grinned so wide his cheeks hurt, his free arm wrapping around Abhay's back.

"Have you been a good boy, my little monkey?" He asked playfully, rubbing his cheek against Abhay's.

Abhay's giggles rose in pitch as he tried to push his father away. "Nanna you're scratching me!"

The two day old stubble was irritating Tarak too, and he knew he needed to shave it before he showed up on set on Wednesday. That was two days from today though so he was going to leave it for later.

"Ah sorry bhujji, but it's itching so much and your cheek is SO soft."

"Noooooo." Abhay shrieked as he moved to sit on Tarak's chest, one leg jammed between Tarak's shoulder and the couch arm.

Tarak smiled at him, shifting his hand to wrap it around Abhay's ankle to keep him falling. Those dark brown eyes twinkled with so much light, they outshone the night sky as far as Tarak was concerned. 

That familiar urge to keep  his son safe, to protect him from all the ugly of the world, to hide him inside his chest where nothing could touch him roared through him. It felt like a blink of an eye ago when he was a baby, so small it seemed he could fit in Tarak's palm.

"Nanna you look like you're going to sleep." Abhay said, poking at Tarak's cheek.

"Nanna has been busy working for the past week Abhay. He could use some rest. Why don't I play with you and we leave him to take a nap?" Pranathi said from behind him, placing her free hand on Abhay's shoulder.

Abhay pouted, "But I haven't played with Naana in so long!"

Unfortunately the volume of the complaint was just loud enough to cross the wall of happiness at being reunited with his kid that Tarak had thrown up, and he winced as the pounding headache from the car ride returned. 

Even worse, Abhay caught it.

"Nanna?" He asked, voice small.

Tarak tried to give him a reassuring smile that ended up closer to a grimace. "Sorry kanna, but your Amma is right as always. I promise I'll play with you after my nap."

Abhay's shoulders hunched in as he fiddled with the buttons of Tarak's shirt. Tarak hated seeing his son despondent.

"Nanna, I promise, I will play with you for as long as you want. I just have a bit of a headache now."

Abhay perked up. "I can help Nanna!"

And before either adult could stop him, the boy had slid off to the side to huddle by Tarak's head, tiny hands on Tarak's temples. They started moving in slow circular motions, so cautious and sweet Tarak felt tears gather at the corner of his eyes.

Abhay gasped. "Did I hurt you Nanna?"

Tarak grabbed Abhay's wrists, pressing kisses to his palms. "You can never hurt me Abhay. That felt wonderful."

Abhay's smile was bright enough to power the sun. "Then I'll go on!"

Abhay resumed the action, "Amma, look! I'm making Nanna's headache go away."

Pranathi looked at Abhay with total adoration. "Yes you are."

"Amma, sing your lullaby to make Nanna sleep! That will make him get better soon and he can play with me again!"

Pranathi huffed a laugh but obliged.

There, surrounded by his son's hands pressing against his temples and his wife's voice in his ears, Tarak closed his eyes. He slowly sank into sleep, his family warming him inside and out.

///

It’s short, and could probably have been expanded but this is all I can manage for now, I hope you like it. If you do, please let me know (just so I know someone is still reading my fic 😅)

@rambheem-is-real @budugu @bromance-minus-the-b @hissterical-nyaan @obsessedtoafault @hufhkbgg @yehsahihai @rorapostsbl @fangirl-from-discord @fadedscarlets @alikokinav @chaotic-moonlight @rambheemisgoated @rambheemlove @jaganmaya @burningsheepcrown @lovingperfectionwonderland @rosayounan @iam-siriuslysher-lokid @thewinchestergirl1208 @dumdaradumdaradum @ronaldofandom @jjwolfesworld @jrntrtitties @kashpaymentsonly @jeonmahi1864  @stanleykubricks @m3gs1mps4a @tulodiscord @teddybat24 @sally-for-sally @ssabriel @jadebomani @stuckyandlarrystuff @veteran-fanperson @ohfuckoffpls @bheemaxrama @chaidrivenwhore @gifseafins  @umbrulla @stars-in-the-distance

Story Summary - Charak Mafia Movie?

Do you remember those photos we got of RC and Tarak back to back looking way too good?

These ones:

Well, I had an idea bouncing around my head. It would have to be a long story that I do not have the time to write, but I do have the summary. Apologies if there is any section that doesn’t make sense, it is just a plot synopsis. 

Here we go:

Story Summary - RRR x ATLA AU

Hey guys, another story summary. I have a lot of ideas I want to write, but I am also feeling slightly frustrated with lack of responses. Like I’m screaming into the void. I know that in the last few months we have been lucky to have so many new people join the fandom, but because of the increased number of works, I am also seeing this almost apathy/works getting taken for granted. Real life takes priority, but if anyone else has noticed many previously active people in the fandom have gone quiet, I do wonder if this is one reason. I am definitely feeling it. 

Anyways, that’s just my opinion. Here is the ATLA AU story summary I had written way back when. It’s not very detailed and I did stick close to the plot of the movie, but it’s just food for thought. 

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For context about the Avatar: The Last Airbender universe, the population is divided into four nations that each have an affinity over one of the elements (Air, Water, Earth, Fire). Of the general population, a smaller subset have the ability to "bend" or manipulate their element of affinity, and can train to strengthen their skills. In addition to control over the "raw" elements, each element also has a special ability associated with it (Air -> Oxygenbending; Water -> Bloodbending; Earth -> Metalbending; Fire -> Lightingbending). While each individual only has affinity for one element, every generation an "Avatar" is born who is capable of learning mastery over all four elements. The "nation" of birth for the avatar also cycles, so if in one generation they are born an Airbender, then in the next they are a Waterbender, and so on. The "Avatar" is typically the strongest bender alive for this reason, and discovers their ability to bend other elements in late childhood.

Ok onto the story. Let's modify these rules just a bit, so that while there are people who can bend who have an affinity to a single element, the strongest also have an affinity for a second element. And the Avatar is not one individual per generation, but there are a handful.

Let's keep the movie's plot the same, but now we have a Bheem who grew up as an extremely powerful and natural waterbender, with a strong affinity for earthbending as well. He never tries to bend either of the other two elements, because in the forests, Water and Earth are the most important elements anyways. And none of the tribespeople think about the possibility Bheem might be an "Avatar" because the last time an "Avatar" was born among them was a couple centuries ago.

Let's also have a Ram who is a very talented Firebender, but who downplays his abilities in front of the British. True that if she showed his power he could have a better chance of getting a promotion. But the British are not total idiots, and are very wary of the Indian benders, not hesitating to lock away any bender who shows even the slightest threat against them. So Ram keeps his abilities hidden, never doing more than the occasional fireball or providing light during night time escorts.

Story Summary - RamBheemJenny Canon Remix

Ok again with story summaries, this is a story that can be much longer, but I do not have the energy to write it. If any of you feel inspired, feel free to run with it. I initially brainstormed this story with @ronaldofandom who wanted a love triangle story. (Except I hate love triangles, so I came up with this instead).

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Ok so the start of the movie stays the same. Malli is captured while Bheem is absent at the village, the British perpetuate their violence against the tribe, and leave with a child already traumatized beyond belief. Ram is still pig headed about his ideals, so sure they are right, and that there is no other way but brute force against his fellow brothers and sisters. Despite the emotional and physical toll, the promotions are al given to White soldiers. But. Come on. An Indian THAT willing to beat up other Indians and THAT brutal about it? That CO was sweating buckets, and definitely reports the incident to Scott.

Who is dumb and arrogant and so sure of British supremacy but also not a complete idiot. He has a niece visiting, and he does not trust her among the mongrels of this country. He meets Ram, and well, at least this brown monkey knows how to talk civilized. As much as he would prefer Jenny stay in the palace, she is coming on holiday to see the country, so keeping her sequestered makes no sense. He tells Ram he is getting a special job: Bodyguard to his niece.

Ram grits his teeth, blanks his faces and salutes the man. Inside, he is seething. He has better things to do than to babysit a child. Babai advises patience, tells him how getting to spend time with the Scotts will still let them get valuable intel, if not the guns Ram so desires. Ram begrudgingly accepts, even as he snarls at having to take a snobbish brat around the country and hearing them whine about his country. Hopefully the girl is just stupid enough to let Ram manipulate her.

Dhruya - Manali Memories

A gift on the anniversary of the birth of a most spectacular individual, @burningsheepcrown. My dearest friend, may the coming year be filled with new adventures, more stories, and so much joy. 

This is for you, I hope you like it:

*For context, Manali is a beautiful township nestled in the picturesque Beas River valley. It is a rustic enclave known for its cool climate and snow-capped mountains, offering respite to tourists escaping scorching heat of the plains. The tourism industry in Manali started booming only in the early 20th century, mainly because of its natural bounties and salubrious climate.

(to read more, go here)

///

“I can hear your teeth chattering from inside the room.” Dhruva said as he slid the balcony door closed behind him to keep the warmth in. He was suitably dressed in thick pants and a soft sweater.

“That’s cause it’s f-f-freezing out h-here!” Daya replied. He was standing with his back to Dhruva, too enraptured by the view to look at his boyfriend. He had his arms wrapped around himself in a hug, rubbing up his arms to try and warm himself. He was notably not dressed for the weather in his beach shorts and sleeveless undershirt.

“I’m sure your clothing choices don’t help either.” Dhruva remarked dryly, letting the blanket in his arms tumble open before draping them around Daya’s shoulders, and closing them down his front his his arms in a hug.

Daya sighed in relief as he sank his weight back onto Dhruva, confident the other man would catch him. A serene smile had settled on his face, and when he opened his eyes to look at Dhruva from where he was resting on his shoulder, they were filled with joy. Dhruva’s own heart flipped in his chest, quickening its pace as his arms squeezed his partner tighter. He leaned forward to nip at the tip of Daya’s nose, chuckling when the man scrunched his face adorably. Dhruva sighed, resting his cheek on top of Daya’s head to take in the view.

It truly was spectacular. They had gotten a room at the back of the hotel, so instead of facing over the city of Manali, they had an uninterrupted view of the forests and mountains. With a temperature approximately 20 degrees below their usual, the chill rose up even though their wool socks.

A Dream Come True

You know, it’s been a minute since I wrote for RamBheem. And @umbrulla shared the most adorable/delightful drawing recently that really set my gears turning. 

I originally envisioned this as a comedic drabble, but predictably perhaps, it became super mushy instead. 

Warning: This is set in an A/B/O world, but its as family friendly as can be. Just didn’t want to blindside you...

Still, I hope you guys like it!

///

Ram hums as he pats Hathrini's back, a steady beat that turns into a caress when she finally burps. He smiles as he feels her small nose twitching against his neck as she rubs her petal-soft cheeks against his scent gland. Caressing upwards, Ram rubs his thumb in a circular motion in the back of her skull.

He shifts her, so she is laying in the middle of both his arms, parallel to each other as he gently curls and uncurls his arms. The motion makes her lips twitch in a smile as her eyes blink slowly, halfway to falling asleep. Ram coos as her when she reaches up to grab at his hair.

"I think that's enough playing, my little talli." Ram tells her. He places her in his lap, jiggling one knee to rock her. When she yawns, he presses the side of his index finger to the bottom of her chin, closing her mouth for her. She blinks at him.

Ram kisses her hair, a dense layer of raven curls that immediately make obvious who her father is.

Tale As Old As Time... (Part 12)

Could it be? Did this girl finally get her shit together enough to actually get back to the work everyone was waiting for so long that they are over it because of how long she took to get back to it?

Look guys, I have no idea when my next update will be, but I do have the entire story plotted out and am determined to see it though, so I kindly ask you to be patient and bear with me. 

For all the anticipation, this chapter might be a little slow, but. um. Good things come to those who wait? I know I have made you wait A LONG TIME, but you have trusted me to come back to this story. 

Also apologies if the chapter is a little rough, I am trying to get back into the groove of the story. 

So, without further ado...

Full work on Ao3 is here

(Previous Chapter)

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Welcome back my dear. Last we left our protagonists, they were sharing a bed in slumber, the first step in their journey together formed between their intertwined hands. Now the time is coming to see whether this seed will blossom, and what it will bloom into.

///

Jai blinked his eyes open lazily, nuzzling into the black head of hair resting against his shoulder. The scent of sandalwood comforted him into sinking into it. He curled himself from his back to his side, one leg brushing another’s.

The action had him snapping his eyes open as the world came into focus with dizzying speed.

He was in Kala Bhairava's room.

In his bed.

And Kala Bhairava was curled into his side, face smushed into Jai's arm.

Jai's brain may have been difficulty processing this information, but one half of Jai's body did not. It felt his the nerves of his arm in particular were directly connected to his lower half, the way each brush of Kala Bhairava’s eyelashes against his arm, or the soft exhales of his breaths against his skin sent frissons of static down his spine. Taking a controlled breath, Jai tried to put some space between them.

He didn't get very far. He had barely moved a few inches before a small whine from Bhairava rooted him to the spot, seeing if his bedmate would awaken. The space allowed him a better view of the other man's face.

The room was illuminated by faint tendrils of light, though very little made it past the canopy curtains. Extending his free hand to part the curtain, Jai inhaled sharply.

Even the small light seemed very bright after the darkness of the bed, with the rays casting a glow to Kala Bhairava's figure.

1940s Film Noir is a genre i don't know…anything about really. But based on my Google research, here's what I've got. (if some of the plot points appear similar to other movies, that's cause I am "borrowing" them)

We have: Dhruva, an ex-police office who grew tired of the rampant corruption within the department, and now works as a private detective, accepting whatever payment his clients can afford to spare. Daya, an inspector who uses the power of his position to benefit himself. He used to do it out of greed, until a case involving a sexually assaulted girl who would never get justice because her attackers had money. Now he's jaded, and gets the money not for its sake, but because it's the only way to survive.

One rainy evening, a man, a boy really, barely starting to grow a moustache, shows up at his office, shaking like a leaf. He looks like he's not had a proper meal in months, all skin and bones, with bags under his eyes, and hair laying limply on his head. The boy asks, pleads with Dhruva to help him find his older brother, who went missing 2 days ago. He explains that they are orphans and his brother is the only family he has. Explains how he works as a newspaper delivery boy and his brother works at the matchbox factory. Dhruva takes on the case, and decides to snoop at midnight, once the factory is empty. Except when he gets there, the place is guarded by police and he learns a body has been found. His heart wrenches at the thought of telling the boy, except it turns out the body is of the factory manager. What happened? Could the boy's brother have gotten into a fight? Could this have been an accident, or self-defense? Daya meanwhile is told to solve the murder quickly, that the culprit is a worker at the factory, a 22-year old who had stolen money from the factory and had a history of talking back. The crime scene also has footprints matching the shoes of the young man.

So we have our two heroes investigating two connected crimes from very different angles that eventually run into each other at the young man's hideout. The place has been ransacked, and Daya is certain Dhruva is to be blamed. Till someone tries to shoot them both. They manage to duck and return fire, Dhruva even clipping him on the shoulder. But by the time they reach the place their assassin had been hiding, he's gone. Daya is now pissed, because it is looking like this nosey private eye might be onto something, but more importantly someone just tried to kill him. He's still not willing to share information with Dhruva. But it doesn't matter because once they are at the station, Dhruva uses the few minutes he's left alone to look through what Daya has so far. He's disdainful but unsurprised by the lack of effort put into looking at any other suspects. It is, after all, easier to blame the poor man who isn't even present to defend himself. Clues from Daya's sparse notes lead Dhruva to the mansion of the factory owner, and he comes to know the son of the factory owner is home. Meeting with the son, Dhruva feels he is being insincere, hiding something. But it still feels like a dead end. Until Daya comes in and gets angry with Dhruva for interfering and kicks him out. Dhruva is fuming but he goes back to the office to find his client, the younger brother waiting with his brother's diary. Dhruva sends the boy away, telling him to keep his head down and to find him at the first sign of any trouble. As he reads the diary, Dhruva realises what's been happening. The factory owner has switched the chemicals used in the manufacturing of their products, and these chemicals are slowly causing the workers to fall sick. The elder brother has managed to obtain evidence of the danger from these chemicals. Plus the way he describes how he tracked down the evidence, it sounds like he had a partner. Or at least a person who could be a witness. A witness! They could be the key to finding his target. Dhruva re reads the diary, and realises the witness and his target weren't just working together but in love. Love …Another thing Dhruva had grown jaded of. As Dhruva thumbs through his notes, he runs down all the people in his investigation. There's only one person who could be the lover. The factory owner's son. Dhruva feels idiotic not having made the connection sooner. Except before he can go confront the young man again, he is ambushed and kidnapped. Daya, who had told Dhruva to meet him at the station the next day is annoyed when Dhruva doesn't show. He goes to Dhruva's office/home and finds the place throughly upturned with clear signs of struggle. Daya manages to retrieve Dhruva's notes where the man had hidden them and comes to the same conclusion. His own investigation had been pulling up all kinds of red flags or things that were too perfect to be real. Knowing Dhruva was running out of time, Daya makes a guess that this is all centering around the factory and gets there in time to hear the factory owner holding Dhruva and the boy he had been searching for on their knees, with guns to their heads. As per movie norms, here's where the big climax fight would happen and the bad guy would be arrested. The two brothers would be reunited, and Dhruva promises to keep the secret of the lovers. Daya says he can file death certificates for the son and the elder brother. The trio decide to leave the city and start anew elsewhere. And for Daya and Dhruva? For the lone wolf who is living just to survive, abd the jaded ex-officer of the law who wants to confront the whole world and make it bend? Well, they agree that they weren't half bad when they worked together. Crime doesn't stop, and just cause one rich man was arrested doesn't mean other will too. But who knows, with this pair working together, maybe some change can be made. And, some time down the line, a partnership founded on professional grounds could morph into the foundation for something more.

…I have no idea if this made much sense, and there are plot holes large enough to drive a plane through , but it's a tentative first draft plot? Was this anywhere close to what you wanted? I hope you liked it @yonderghostshistories

Let me know what you think!

Malli, Lacchu, and Jenny. Unusual combo.

How about… hmm, I can't think of a scene with all three simultaneously. But how about this?

Malli having a nightmare about her captivity once she is back home. Bheem is away (hunting trip or raid or just not there at that time). Lacchu is the one there to comfort her, to anchor her back to reality, and assure her she is back home. Malli crying into Lacchu's shoulder, asking in a voice that is too small and frail and so unlike the vivacious and happy girl Lacchu remembered, his hate for the British triples.

Malli asking why she keeps having nightmares, why can't she ever leave that caged room behind, why can't she get her life back. Lacchu not knowing how to answer her, so instead he confides in her about his own experiences in Delhi. About the foreigness of the city, the density of people. About Ram, the chase, the hiding, the capture. The torture. While he would have perhaps censored himself from giving such grim details to a child, Malli has been robbed of her childhood, and already knows the world is not kind.

Malli being shocked about Ram's treatment of Lacchu, and having a hard time reconciling it with the Annayya who she has come to know. Remembering the day of her escape with Bheem Annayya, about the fear that had gripped her at the soldier chasing her in the red coat. About the fight and the guns and the bodies. Malli hugging Lacchu and saying she is sorry for all he went through. Him being shocked at the reaction, how in the face of the months of isolation and captivity, Malli did not break, instead developing a resilience that Lacchu now breathes in relief at. Because if she didn't break then, she will not break now. Not break here, at home, surrounded by people who love her and will allow no more harm to come to her.

Lacchu holding her close until she finally falls back asleep, and carrying her back to her hut, where he delivers her to a teary eyed Loki. Reassuring the mother of her daughter's strength. Exiting the hut to find a wavering Jenny looking at it, eyes far away. Till they register Lacchu, at which point that gaze is fixed on him.

Lacchu sighing. It has been a few months since the white woman came, and the village is still wary of her. He knows Bheem is the protector, and he wouldn't knowingly bring in danger to their home. But he had also not been able to understand a friend could betray him as Ram had, even if that had turned out to be for a reason Lacchu did not believe exempted the man from his actions. Bheem was the bravest and fiercest and best of them all. But his belief in the goodness of others blinded him to the fact that fear and experience cut to the bone.

The woman had done nothing untoward or been anything less than kind. She was perceptive, understanding why the villagers were wary, and accepted it, trying to cause as little ruckus as possible. She had even gone away with Ram's friend Sita for a few weeks, which had resulted in the village breathing easier. Upon her return the tension had returned, but lesser. It seemed Sita had taught her to speak their language, and dress less like her usual self. The change in attire, and the newfound ability to communicate went a long way in helping to build bridges. The villagers still did not trust her, but they no longer thought she would bring about their doom.

Lacchu taking Jenny away from the village, sitting her down to talk. Jenny shedding tears as she wrung her hands, simultaneously babbling apologies for what had happened to Malli and cursing herself for not seeing the reality of the situation and trying to help her. Lacchu not having the patience to coddle her, raising a hand to quiet her.

Explaining that it was not his duty or in his power to forgive her, and by virtue of her skin color and heritage, she would never be accepted as one of them. Him explaining that if she really wanted to repent, she could start by reflecting on where her people got the audacity to invade another land and crush it under their heel like they had done. Saying the best thing she can do is work with them to rid the country of her people. That the damage done to Malli can never be taken back, but also she is far from the only child who has had their childhood stolen by people like her family.

He wouldn't be kind, or soft. But he would also not be trying to put salt in the wound. The fact of the matter was that the British had done reprehensible things to India and her children, actions which would take generations to repair. Things far beyond the control of any one individual. Jenny may not have been involved in Malli's kidnapping, and may have been the only Britisher to see her as more than a plaything, but that did not make her an angel.

Jenny... Jenny would take each fact as a barb, wickedly thorned as the whip that scarred Bheem's back. And then be horrified to compare the baring of reality, the parting of the veil of her privilage to the real torture Bheem suffered.

I don't know where the story would go from there. But I think it would involve a lot of introspection from Jenny. Her realizing that beneath the harshness of Lacchu's words, the sincerity was there. And Jenny actively working towards the cause from then on, truly accepting India as her chosen country. Or it could go the other way, Jenny realizing the most good she can do for the cause is not here, but back home. Her returing to England, finding someone who is either sympathetic, or apathetic enough to let her do what she wants. Her becoming a spy, trying to gain sympathy among the aristocracy.

Something along those lines?

(I have no idea if this comes close to what you were hoping but the couple of scenes that my brain came up with all involved either Lacchu or Jenny first comforting Malli, then "confronting" the other to discuss Malli's capture/their own experiences)

Thanks for the ask!

Jai x Harsha - Afternoon Delight

Feels like it has been too long once again since I posted something. I had three stories that are like 80% done and this is the one I got across the finish line. I am not sure how much sense this will make, but it is a follow-up to "My Best Friend and My Brother" story, in the sense that it takes place in the same universe. Other than that, it is just a fun little scene that was tumbling around in my head.

Hope you like it!

Also, this is not my usual family-friendly story, I'd say it has a PG-14 rating just to be safe. Sex is alluded to pretty strongly, but nothing is graphically shown.

(Apologies for any typos/grammatical errors, this is not beta-read)

///

"Jai!" Harsha shouted as he banged open the door to Jai's office.

Jai merely raised an eyebrow at the sight of the younger man who was bouncing on his toes. From his side, he could feel the disapproving glare Kaakha shot him. And the utter bafflement of Shobhu and his cronies.

He held up a hand to Harsha when he opened his mouth, turning to his prospective business partners. "Those are the terms of m-my deal. Go discuss them wi-with your boss and get back to me."

The trio glanced nervously at each other before nodding and getting up. They didn't exactly flee the room but...

"What did you tell them that has them shaking like a leaf?" Harsha wondered aloud.

Kaakha cleared his throat, crossing his arms across his chest.

Harsha threw him a shit-eating grin.

"Afternoon, Kaakha garu!" Harsha said. "This is for you!"

Kaakha's frown deepened as he stared at the bag like a snake was going to rise up and bite him.

Harsha shook it once. "Relax, it's just bhajji."

"Bhajji." Kaakha parroted flatly.

Harsha winked at him, and Jai felt a smile tug at the corner of his lips. He knew Kaakha was glad for the other man, and how much he had helped Jai settle into a new persona. He also knew that between the unyielding optimism, deliberate pranks, and sheer stubbornness,

Harsha represented the three worst qualities from all three brothers, making him the biggest headache in some cases.

"Yeah," Harsha shrugged. "Lava had said something about you two having a big business meeting, so I figured you may not have time to eat."

Kaakha was still squinting suspiciously at Harsha as he finally grabbed the offered paper bag. He peered inside, and nodded when he confirmed Harsha's description as true.

Harsha was still grinning, and Jai wondered if his cheeks wouldn't hurt.

"Great. Babai is heating up the rest of them in the kitchen if you want to eat with Lava and Kusa."

Kaakha's glare turned dark. "And if I don't?"

Harsha shrugged. "Then you'll get an eyeful."

Kaakha's expression immediately morphed into a queasy one as he fled.

My Best Friend and My Brother

Ok this was partially inspired by a Tumblr post, but mostly came together in my head intended to be one thing, but the final piece turned out different than what I anticipated. I am also not super confident in how ...sensical ? this fic might be, so let me know your thoughts.

An attempt at Jai (Jai Lava Kusa) x Harsha (Magadeera)

///

"I can't believe you never told me you had such a hot brother." Harsha murmured to Lava from where they were eating their evening snack. Lava had invited his old friend to Annayya's mansion once Kusa and he had decided to stay here on a more permanent basis.

"Well I didn't even realize he was alive-" Lava froze with his samosa midway to his mouth. "Did you just say hot?"

Harsha tilted his head at him, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. "Yeah? Look at him. He's freaking sexy."

Lava gaped at Harsha, opening and closing his mouth several times, but no words would come out.

"What?" Harsha asked defensively.

Lava sputtered, "He's, I'm...He's my twin brother!"

Harsha shrugged. "Only in appearance. I love you Lava but your ... um…vibe? It's the type to scream that if someone poured soup on your lap, you'd apologize to them. Him on the other hand..." Harsha turned to look in Annayya's direction with sultry eyes. “I’d love to get to know him more. And I think he feels the same.”

Lava punched his shoulder softly.

"Hey!" Harsha said as he rubbed the spot.

"Stop that. I just. You can't. You-" Lava's brain was still trying to process the situation. And failing miserably.

Harsha pouted at him. "Does he already have someone?"

Lava shook his head.

"Does he only like girls?"

"I-I'm not sure." Lava admitted hesitatingly.

Harsha brightened, a determined look in his eyes. Lava grabbed his forearm, gripping it tight. "Harsha, please. I just -"

Harsha's eyes flashed. "What is it, Lava? Is it that I'm also a guy? I know we don't really talk about it but like. I am not going to force myself on your brother you know."

"No!" Lava shouted quietly, lowering his voice to avoid drawing the attention of his brother's...henchmen. "No! It's not that, Harsha it doesn't bother me, I promise! You’re my best friend, you know I don’t care about that stuff."

"Then what man?" Harsha asked, arms crossed over his chest.

Lava bit his lip, thankful that Jai hadn't looked their way yet. 

"He's ... He's dangerous. He has a temper.I don’t want you to get tangled in his mess, or get hurt."

Harsha rolled his eyes. "I'm a big boy Lava, I can take care of myself."

And before Lava could reply, he was up and walking towards Jai, a distinct sway to his hips. Lava watched him go with wide eyes, hand still outstretched towards him. Lava didn’t miss the way Jai’s gaze slid to Harsha immediately, or how he stopped talking to watch his friend approach. Oh devuda, please let there be no bloodshed.

Intertwined Till the End

Ok, so to preface, this is not part of the TAOAT verse, it just happens to be Jairava. That said, this is 100% @burningsheepcrown ‘s fault, so feel free to direct all blame at her. Because she not only drew the angst, she then prodded me about it. 

Also, I typed this out on my phone in like 20 minutes, and have not edited it, so apologies for any typos or grammer mistakes. 

Lan, suffer the consequences of giving me this art piece:

///

Bhairava grit his teeth as he shoved his dislocated shoulder back into position. The palace was going up in flames, half his soldiers were dead, and the other half retreating with whatever population had managed to reach the back gates of the city.

He yelled as his arm still throbbed, but there was no time for rest. He pushed through the debris until he reached the royal wing of the palace, where thankfully the flames had not reached yet. It would only be a matter of time.

He ran to the Princess- the Queen's chambers, bursting in to find his nightmare come true.

With a yell, he threw the small blade from his waist belt at Raavana, to no effect.

He flicked away the blade as though it had been a mosquito. As though it had not penetrated his skin and wounded him.

Slumped in her desk was the Queen, injured and bleeding from the arm, but miraculously still alive.

"Bhairava no!" Queen Mithravinda cried, but Bhairava tuned her out, grabbing one of the display spears and rushing at Raavana.

Even on his best day, a fight against this man was a challenge that used to bring him the highest pleasures. For his size, Jai had been fast and immoveable. Now, injured and still bleeding, well Bhairava knew a losing battle when he saw one.

But he needed to fight. Needed to distract Raavana long enough for Mithra to escape through one of the passageways where he had stationed soldiers to escort her away from the captured capital.

He took a second, just one, to catch a last look at Mithra's face, knowing in his bones this would be the last time he saw her.

He swung at Raavana, but the man swatted away the spear easily, instead delivering a powerful kick to Bhairava's chest that caused all the air in his chest to escape as he was hurled against the wall.

Blinking through the pain blurring his vision he reached for his sword with a trembling hand, pushing himself by the elbow to stand up. Only to scream when it was kicked out of his grasp and a foot came down hard on his injured arm, dislocating his shoulder again. A heavy weight settled against his chest, further obstructing his ability to breathe. He wretched his eyes open to see a smirking Raavana kneeling on top of him, one arm resting on the foot pressing his shoulder down.

An almost soft caress traced his cheek.

"Poor little soldier. I could have given you the world Kala Bhairava."

"I could never have been with someone who plays with lives as if they're disposable, Raavana." Bhairava bit out.

Raavana clicked his tongue. "There used to be a time when you called me by a different name. Screamed it too."

"I was not thinking clearly."

Raavana's eyes flashed as he roughly grabbed Bhairava's jaw, yanking his head up, forcing him to arch his neck. "I could have come to care for you."

"It takes a heart to care, Raavana."

Raavana snarled, hand slipping to wrap around Bhairava's throat. "She could never truly love you. She could never marry you. She could never see you as more than a soldier.

I COULD HAVE MADE YOU A KING!" Raavana roared.

"Not all of us are willing to sacrifice everything for power." Bhairava choked out, free hand itching for his waist belt while Raavana focused on his face.

"You would die for her?" Raavana growled.

"My life is meaningless in the larger scheme of things, if I have to die so she can live, then so be it."

Raavana tightened his grip, making Bhairava kick out his leg as his body tried to escape the punishing grasp. Raavana leaned down until his breath wafted over Bhairava's face. "Well looks like you are out of luck, Kala Bhairava. You are going to see as I kill her, and then I'll come and kill you."

"You...you're sure about that?" Bhairava gasped.

Raavana's jaw clenched as he whipped his head to find Mithra, only to find the chair empty, and the Queen long gone.

Bhairava used the split second to swipe the short dagger from Raavana's boot, slicing up his calf. Raavana roared again as he lost his balance.

Bhairava pooled all his remaining strength to roll them over so he was the one on top. "You shouldn't have come here Raavana. Because now, you're never going to leave."

Bhairava brought the dagger down in a powerful swing only to stop a hairs breath away from actually stabbing him. His fist curled into Raavana's armor instead as tears clouded his eyes.

Raavana laughed. "All those words, and you still can't see it. You still care for me Bhairava. That's why you can't kill me."

Bhairava looked at him with hatred, and betrayal.

Raavana.

Jai.

How could he have been so wrong about him? How could he have let himself fall for such a monster? Why couldn't he slay the beast? He felt exhausted, the drain of the battle, the revelation of his heart.

He dropped the dagger, collapsing on a chest he had spent many enjoyable nights with. Except where those had been filled with pleasure and a blossoming love, here they laid in a room whose walls were being licked by flames, resting on a pool of their blood.

"Perhaps I cannot kill you Raavana, but I can make sure I don't die alone."

Raavana.

No.

Jai.

No. Raavan-Jai sighed. "If there was anyone I could have seen by my side in life, it was you Kala Bhairava. You will do to accompany me in death instead."

As the two broken, bleeding men laid there, the fire reached the roof of the palace. It would soon break through the wooden beams and bring the whole structure on top of them. In another universe this story could have had a kinder ending. In another universe, this ending would never have occurred. In this universe, as a flaming lamp fell, it's rod pierced through two chests, interlocked them in death for eternity.  

///

@rambheem-is-real @budugu @bromance-minus-the-b @hissterical-nyaan @obsessedtoafault @hufhkbgg @yehsahihai @rorapostsbl @fadedscarlets @alikokinav @chaotic-moonlight @rambheemisgoated @rambheemlove @jaganmaya @burningsheepcrown @lovingperfectionwonderland @rosayounan @iam-siriuslysher-lokid @thewinchestergirl1208 @dumdaradumdaradum @ronaldofandom @jjwolfesworld @jrntrtitties @kashpaymentsonly @jeonmahi1864 @zackcrazyvalentine @stanleykubricks​ @tulodiscord​ @teddybat24​ @sally-for-sally​ @jadebomani​ @stuckyandlarrystuff​ @veteran-fanperson​ @ohfuckoffpls​  @carminavulcana​ @boochhaan​ @doodlesofthelastpage​ @filesbeorganized @meownique​ @ssabriel​ @meastradeur​ @ronika-writes-stuff​ @umbrulla​  

Christmas Checklist Confusion

///

"And done!" Ram exclaimed triumphantly as he finished tying the bow on Babai's gift. Bheem's head popped up over his shoulder, smiling down at the wrapped gift.

"We got them all this time!" Bheem said with a bright grin.

Ram beamed back showing off his gleaming white teeth as he leaned back against Bheem's chest.

"So that's Malli, Loki, Jangu, Lacchu, Sita, Babai, and Jenny." Ram said as he ticked off each name on his fingers.

"I think this is the first time we managed to finish before December 24th." Bheem said thoughtfully, rubbing at his beard.

Ram nodded, holding up a hand. "High five."

Bheem chuckled as he slapped his palm against Ram's, before collecting Babai's gift and taking it to the table with the rest of their gifts.

"We even gave the gifts for our coworkers and the apartment watchman right?" Ram confirmed.

Bheem nodded, "Yes we did that Wednesday."

Ram breathed out in relief, body sliding down the chair as his tension melted away. "Holiday shopping is stressful."

Bheem laughed, coming up behind the man to give him a shoulder rub. Ram hummed happily as he sunk some more into the chair. "You keep that up, and I'll fall asleep right here."

Bheem squeezed his shoulders before letting go, making Ram whine quietly. Bheem laughed. "Rama if you fall asleep in this chair, then whatever knots I worked out from your shoulders will form again. The sofa is three feet away."

Ram peeked at him from one eye, eying the distance between him and the sofa. He closed both eyes, crossing his arms over his chest. "No, it's too far away. I'll take my chances here."

Bheem raised an eyebrow, lips twitching. It was so nice to see Ram being so relaxed and playful. It had been a hell of a year, but he was glad to see the man taking it easy for once.

That did not give him an excuse to ruin Bheem's massage.

Maiden Trial

///

Bhairava was quietly admiring the scenery around him as he followed Bheem through the forest. His…lover? Partner? Something else? had asked him to accompany him for two nights away from the village. At first Bhairava had hesitated, knowing the village already suspected the pair were more than the friends they claimed to be, and the last thing he wanted was to make life harder for Bheem.

It had been happenstance, stumbling into Bheem and a few other men from the tribe as they were trying to fend themselves from the Nizamate’s guards. And though it had been a while since Bhairava had taken up arms, he had quickly joined the foray and helped them drive the guards back enough to manage an escape into the forest. Bhairava himself had only been passing through the area, so he had decided to just keep moving instead of finding a place to stay the night.

But the universe must have been determined to have him meet Bheem properly, because only a couple of days later, it was Bhairava who was being ganged up on, and Bheem who came to his rescue.

That encounter had been a few months ago, since which time he had accepted Bheem’s offer to stay at their village.

A little over two years since he had left his past life behind.