Five Figure Fanwork Exchange

大逆転裁判　・　 The Inheritance Cycle 　・　 Murdle 　・　バチカン奇跡調査官

↑ Hover for romanisations

Dear Creator,

How is it this time already!? 😱 I could've sworn I was just wrapping up last year's fic!

In any event, thank you dearly for checking out my letter! I'm already looking forward to seeing what you come up with, even though reveals are MONTHS away ♡ Rest assured that I will love it dearly :D

I would be more than happy to receive a work (or works) of any rating for any of my ships. Every single one of these pairings is very dear to me, and I would be extraordinarily pleased to receive something for any single one of them. I hope these prompts are helpful and informative; but if not, please feel free to disregard them and do your own thing! I'll also note here that I have gifting enabled on AO3.

When it comes to art preferences — for 'comic' styles, I'm more than comfortable with right-to-left layouts (especially for my Japanese canons), but left-to-right works just as well, so please go with whatever makes you most at ease! I don't have any strong preferences when it comes to black and white or colours and palettes, nor mediums or tones. In terms of styles (and please don't feel bound to this!), I enjoy anime/manga style, as well as chibis, but also like more realistic portrayals. Additionally, I tend to prefer on-model characters that ressemble the source material — as opposed to interpretations where they have been dramatically altered (ex: race-bending skin tones, drastically changing proportions such that a canonically slim character appears overweight, etc.). But if that's not your thing, I'd be happy to see something that's in your style!

Wishing you a stress-free creation period~ ✏️

Baka-Tsumibito

My AO3.

General Likes

α Alpha / β Beta / Ω Omega dynamics (omegaverse)
Ambiguous consent
Angst
Aphrodisiacs
BDSM / Bondage
Begging
Brothercest
Casefic
Coming inside
Crying during sex
'Dead dove do not eat'
Desperation
Dom/Sub dynamics
Domestic setting
Double or multiple penetration
First time
Fix-it fic
Fuck or Die
Getting together
Humiliation (public or private)
Hurt/comfort
Incest
Loss of virginity
Mutual non-con
Mystery
Object insertion
Pining
Praise kink
Ritual sex
Sex pollen
Sexual slavery
Soulmates
Spanking
Themes of dependency (+ codependent relationships)
Themes of loyalty
Whump

Opt-Ins (a non-exhaustive list!)

Any POV narration (not including reader insert)
Character death (canonical or not)
Dubcon
Incest
Mpreg
Noncon
Open relationships unless otherwise stated
Psychological themes
Self-harm
Suicide
Underage
Violence

For reference, last year's letter.

THE GREAT ACE ATTORNEY CHRONICLES

Asougi Genshin / Barok van Zieks / Klint van Zieks
Barok van Zieks / Klint van Zieks
Asougi Kazuma & Barok van Zieks
Sherlock Holmes / Mikotoba Yuujin

Requested Formats
10,000-word fic

DNWs

Amputation & Permanent loss of body parts (eyes, teeth, limbs)
Depictions of the canonical Asougi & van Zieks marriages as love marriages
Male omegas that have vaginas instead of penises
Treatment of Mikotoba's relationship and marriage with Ayame as his "one true love"/"soulmate"
Unrequested romantic relationships (past/present) for either van Zieks brother - excepting any Asougi
Unrequested gender / identity headcanons

This series has forever changed my world and has been driving me insane for the past THREE years now. (As I write this, I am frantically manifesting Dai Gyakuten KENJI... please join me.🤞) There are priceless dynamics between everybody, literally! TGAA is also the game that has turned me into a multi-shipper; I freak out over every single character interaction (and everyone is attracted to everyone, don’t ask me how that works). I have a ton of DGS ships and enjoy exploring so many dynamics, especially codependent/messy/devoted forms of love.

Any and all characters from the full cast are welcome. Feel free to use either the original or localised spellings. (In this letter you'll notice I gravitate towards "Klint", "Holmes" and exact transliteration when it comes to Japanese names, but don't feel obligated to do the same!) I have no preference between, say, "Stronghart" or "Vortex". I very much enjoyed the Victorian speech patterns and cultural references in the game, so if you're up for writing in the style I'd be incredibly thrilled!

Genshin / Barok / Klint

My absolute favourite loyalty trio ❤︎ I’m absolutely convinced that they’re all in love with each other, bound together by fate, and all that. I’m fine with any interpretation: two of them together before adding in the third – messy pining by everyone for everyone, whether it's in the context of a relationship or not – “educational” mentorships turning into more – juggling marriages and heirs with true love – literally anything!

I'm super obsessed with these two bro-cons, and the third they pick up somewhere along the way :D It's clear from how much Klint and Genshin both sacrificed for Barok that they loved him deeply, and so he does still in return; he does not strike me as the type to take down Klint's portrait following the Professor reveal, and he seems rather desperate to make amends with the Asougis... I'm drawn to that (somewhat) blind idol-worship of Barok's, along with all the other traits of the 'little darling' we get a few glimpses of. He really strikes me as a definite bottom, with that maiden heart he has, though depending on the situation I could see him topping (or being forced to top).

As for Klint and Genshin, I have no fixed top/bottom preference when it comes to sexual matters. I do want Klint to remain limited to Barok and Genshin in his relationships, though conversely I can see Genshin as having had plenty of past experience (specifically through shuudou, the samurai's genre of pederasty).

Treat the incest & homosexuality taboos and legality as you'd like - is the relationship a secret? Unconventional, but frowned upon (especially due to Genshin's foreign status and the van Zieks family as nobles?) Totally acceptable and downright standard? Expected, due to inbreeding traditions amongst the upper classes? I'm looking for love and loyalty between the three of them, but beyond that, anything is fair game.

A note on Klint:
I'd prefer if Klint isn't portrayed as cruel, overtly manipulative or violent towards Barok and Genshin, including intentionally non-conning either one outside of the context of mutual dub/non-con.

Concerning the canonical marriages:

I would prefer for both Genshin's and Klint's marriages to be treated as arranged or political affairs - essentially, marrying out of duty as the family head must (and perhaps in Klint's case, to free Barok from the same fate). If you'd like to elaborate - perhaps it was necessary for safety reasons, happened as an agreement between friends, out of necessity, etc. - as long as love marriages or any romantic implications are avoided, I'm happy to see any interpretation. As for the issue of adultery: I'm fine with however you wish to treat this. Handwave things, give them mental anguish, have everyone in open marriages, choose or adapt the setting so that Lady Baskerville is not around yet and maybe never comes into the picture / the Asougi Lady has already passed away - anything goes!

(In Genshin's case, specifically)
Due to his samurai heritage, I can see him as hailing from shuudou traditions wherein it may have been acceptable for him to have other relationships (esp. with younger men) outside of his marriage. I enjoy seeing him portrayed as homosexual, but feel free not to address it if that doesn’t suit your interpretation.

If any of the above doesn't suit your fancy, please feel comfortable glossing over the subject of their marriages and avoiding it altogether.

Optional Prompts

Casual sword fights outside behind the manor. Training one another in foreign Western/Eastern styles
Genshin appreciates the brothers’ flexibility, and bends them into “interesting” positions. Or maybe stretching after a swordfight one day leads to sexy times. I’m just dying to see Genshin being surprised by the extent of their stretchiness and promptly wanting to take advantage of it.
Introducing London’s sights to Genshin! What kinds of foods do they have him try? What kinds of social functions must he endure?
Genshin introduces the brothers to Japanese traditions, whether it be language, holidays, paraphernalia, and more. They are very, very curious. I’d love to see them nerding out over Genshin’s undergarments (his fundoshi)!! Did Genshin bring any shuunga with him? 😂
Klint and Barok hear about Genshin’s experiences with shuudou, and grow eager to try it out for themselves. Upon meeting Genshin, Barok and Klint learn about the pederastic traditions practiced by the samurai. As Barok has yet to reach adulthood, they decide to experience the tradition themselves. Genshin has the most experience out of the three and guides them to sexual maturity.
A descendant of a rich samurai tradition, Genshin is very much a proponent of bushido. His loyalty to the van Zieks runs just as deep as that of a samurai towards his daimyo. It would be cool to explore the depths of his devotion and fealty to the brothers, given what we see in canon! Is there anything he wouldn't do for them?
While having a fair amount of sexual experience, most of it has been at the hands of his master and it hasn't been gentle. Genshin is surprised to find that sex with Barok/Klint is the most tender he's ever had.
Various settings with a focus on the differences between East and West: comparing their differing physical attributes, Genshin marvelling at the van Zieks flexibility (yes I have a thing), excited nerding out over weapons and combat forms gets heated, watching Barok's body change as he grows up and starts to outgrow their clothes, and so on.
Klint's meticulousness translates into grooming his lovers and adjusting their ensembles until they all look immaculate.
Time travel or deaging shenanigans: Is present!Barok in his younger body, or is he returning to the best years of his life? How did he get that way / there - don't tell me Holmes was up to something... or even Albert | Benjamin.
De-aged Barok...young, cute, miniature Barok........who loves his big brother sooo much and has stars in his eyes when Genshin is around....✨ How are they supposed to resist him!?
Unexpected, accidental, should-be-impossible pregnancy! I am weakest for pregnant!Barok, but I absolutely love the idea of Klint or Genshin 'accidentally' getting pregnant instead xD Is it a Victorian miracle? Some kind of sex pollen or result of unfortunate experimentation? Or is this omegaverse, filled with all kinds of saucy A/B/O Victorian politics??
It seems as though the van Zieks can both bear young! ... But they don't know that until Klint winds up pregnant instead of Barok! ^^
A day (or multiple) in the life of the Director of Prosecutions Klint van Zieks, his judicial assistant Barok, and their detective partner, the foreigner Asougi. What case are they on? Do Holmes & Mikotoba make an appearance? How about their other colleagues?
As Barok implies, the van Zieks were on the end of many attacks in the past. Does Genshin protect them? Were they ever abducted by the mob? I’d love to see them forced into some mutual non-con too. More thoughts here.
The trials and tribulations of getting together: is Klint/Barok the established couple, or is it Genshin/Klint? What about Genshin/Barok?? Who thinks their feelings are unrequited? What if soulmate marks are involved...
The trio are stuck in an awkward, messy triangle. It is the Victorian Era, where they are all extremely repressed and find it terribly difficult to be upfront about their perverse desires. (Perhaps they still engage in physical deeds, without admitting the depths of their love.) The only secrets between them are the truth of their feelings, because it would be impossible to hide their sexual interactions from one another, and they are all honest men. Between the fear of admitting to incestuous desires and the illegality of uranian love, on top of adultery, it takes forever for the threesome to get their acts together.
Angst over Klint’s impending wedding leads to difficult discussions about their future as lovers and partners.
Sex as stress relief. Potentially of the kinky variety. You know Klint needs it.
The B collar did not belong to Balmung in the end; B is for Barok after all! It's a symbol of his devoted submission to his lovers ~
Any twist on the Professor case wherein it was a ruse all along, and Barok is spared from endless grief. An Everybody lives! AU where Barok gets to have the happy life he wants and deserves.
Or, somehow, Klint and Genshin come back to life! What was the cause of their return? How do they cope with the changes that have happened to Barok? Do they ply him with a decade's worth of affection and intimacy?
If the Professor case hadn't happened... Genshin would still have to have gone home eventually. Packing up his life isn't a pleasant process, and Klint and Barok are unbearable...
Slave Setting: Following the 'Professor is Klint' reveal 10 years ago, Klint's life is spared and he is not taken into custody. Instead, Klint is subject to the mercy of his lovers, and he takes it upon himself to become their sex slave + submissive as punishment and recompense. Not wanting to entertain Klint's suicidal ideation anymore, Barok and Genshin must reluctantly go along with this new state of affairs as a last resort, using pleasure and erotic pain as tools to distract him from having anymore dark, murderous thoughts.
Barok makes it to Klint’s office before he dies, and the three of them say goodbye together
Ghost threesome sex that may or may not lead to a resurrection 👻 After the resolution of the Professor case, Barok lays with the ghosts of his lover(s), accidentally/purposefully bringing them back to life in the process.
Following their deaths, Genshin and Klint remain at Barok's side. He might not be able to see them, but they attempt to make their presence known nonetheless (one-sided ghost sex?). Conversely, maybe Barok only sees them in his dreams (and whether they are simply figments of his imagination or actual ghosts is up to you), doing all the things he wouldn't dare to do otherwise with them in his sleep.
Barok, alone, mourning over his lovers. Maybe this is during the 10-year gap? Post-canon? Immediately after the execution? Maybe he goes through their things, old prints and paintings, takes to weariing their clothes, etc.
Depressed!Barok attempts suicide (does he succeed?) and sees Klint / Genshin again. Or, he specifically goes through with it in order to see them again. Does this happen right after the Professor case? During his 5 year absence from the courtroom (or could it be the reason for his absence)? Post-canon and the Klint reveal? Maybe Barok can’t forgive himself for prosecuting Genshin, sham trial or not. Is Kazuma the one to (inadvertently?) push him over the edge...

Extended thoughts on the Asozieks being attacked by a mob

I am SUPER into the thought of a London mob going after the van Zieks and Genshin. As Barok explains in canon, he and his family/companions paint a huge target, being both prominent members of the judiciary as well as English nobility. I really like this idea as mutual non-con, but I'm also happy to see the mob getting their grubby hands on any of these three <3

Perhaps the usual attacks on the van Zieks lead to an abduction. Maybe Genshin is taken with them, or maybe he tries to rescue them (and possibly he is captured too). Genshin and Klint are epic swordsmen, but they cannot possibly foresee every attack or abduction. Who makes up the mob who comes after them? Previously convicted criminals and/or their friends, seeking revenge on the van Zieks and their protector? Or perhaps Genshin is an afterthought, merely taken along for the ride or forced to join after a rescue mission gone wrong? Is the goal to obtain blackmail material, or simply do damage? (Whether that be physical or emotional/relationship-wise.)
Perhaps it is the doing of other jealous aristocrats, potentially even members of the judiciary... And, of course, can't forget about Stronghart! Is it Professor-related blackmail and assault, or does this event occur long before the murders begin? ~~This might be the trigger that spurs Klint into action.~~ Maybe Stronghart, having failed to acquire blackmail material on the three upright men, decides to create his own?

If any combination of these three are whumped together, I like all flavours of this take: established relationship performing in public, (knowingly) pining but mutually refused to act on it or first times in the most degrading and heartbreaking of manners. I'm fine with having them roughed up and injured, as long as no limbs are removed. Please feel free to combine this idea with other characters and (requested) relationships too! (Jigoku, Kazuma, HomuMiko...) In this scenario, I don't mind if any of the three are forced into sex with other characters.

Back to DGS

Barok / Klint

These two are simply brother-obsessed. They're locked in mutual idolatry even though it blinds them. I love how they're respectively each other's weaknesses, and how needy and co-dependent they seem to be. While Klint never has to live without Barok, his actions suggest that he would fall apart in a similar way if he ever lost his brother.

Barok clearly loves Klint so, incredibly much. Unconditionally, even, despite the events of canon. I don’t think he’s the type to take down his brother’s portrait, as he still admires him and looks up to the man he loved… probably a little too deeply. I enjoy the thought of Barok looking to his brother’s portrait for advice, and just generally going to or thinking of Klint in times of crisis.

As for Klint, I think the fact that he would’ve rather become Stronghart’s puppet instead of revealing the truth of his misdeeds to Barok (risking the loss of his affections), as well as how he was unable to confess to Barok while he still lived is very telling about how terrifying losing Barok was to him. Klint was paralysed by the need to remain perfect in his brother’s eyes lest he lose Barok’s love. What sacrifices does he make for Barok’s sake? I like the idea of Stronghart blackmailing Klint with the threat of revealing their incestuous relationship.

In terms of dynamics, one of my favourites is top!Klint taking Barok's virginity (and giving him his own, in exchange). Depending on the situation, I could see them switching if the goal is to "educate Barok on matters of intimacy", or if Klint is feeling guilty and attempting to repent.

I'd prefer if Klint isn't portrayed as cruel, overtly manipulative or violent towards Barok, including intentionally non-conning Barok outside of the context of mutual dub/non-con.

On Klint's marriage to Lady Baskerville:

I would prefer for Klint's marriage to be treated as an arranged or political affair - essentially, marrying out of duty as the family head must — and perhaps to free Barok from the same fate...? If you'd like to elaborate - perhaps it was necessary for safety reasons, happened as an agreement between friends, out of necessity, etc. - as long as love marriages or any romantic implications are avoided (for instance, them viewing one another with familial bonds is fine!), I'm happy to see any interpretation. As for the issue of adultery: I'm fine with however you wish to treat this. Handwave things, give them mental anguish, have everyone in open marriages, choose or adapt the setting so that Lady Baskerville is not around yet and maybe never comes into the picture - anything goes! Some of these prompts do suggest a timeframe when Lady Baskerville was definitely in the picture - I don't mind if she shows up, and feel free to have her presence be a point of contention.

If any of the above doesn't suit your fancy, please go ahead and gloss over the subject of Klint's marriage or avoid it altogether.

Optional Prompts

Some of the prompts here also work for Klint/Barok only. Feel free to take inspiration from them as you please!

Getting together before the arrival of the Japanese exchange students, when Barok was not yet an adult. Did Barok pursue Klint, or did their relationship evolve naturally as an extension of their brotherly affections?
When Barok hits puberty, Klint is the one to introduce him to sex and onanism, a lesson that goes much too far. Once they start, they never stop.
The van Zieks family tutor is quick to take up the switch as punishment. In an attempt to spare his brother (maybe the punishment is unjust? Or Klint's simply a huge pushover when it comes to his little brother), Klint petitions to take over the punishments himself. He ends up reluctantly taking Barok over his lap to give him a few bare slaps. Maybe Barok reacts to him, or Klint finds himself accientally turned on? Does this become their new normal?
Before Genshin comes into their lives, Klint is the last line of defense when defending himself and his brother. (Alternatively, Genshin might be around already, but not present at the moment.) One day, his best is not enough and they're forced to do despicable things by their tormentors. I have no preference for Barok's age, and if you'd like to set this at a time when he's a little too innocent, by all means!
- For more thoughts on mobbings and mutual non-con, please see here.
Given the opportunity (maybe ghost Klint refuses to reveal himself to his brother?), Barok would definitely choose to bring Klint back to life through intercourse, established relationship or not.
For A/B/O or dom/sub verses: I’d love to see bottom (omega/sub) Barok mating with/being collared by his brother. It could be out of necessity, to hide Barok’s dynamic. It could be convention between siblings within the aristocracy. Anything goes! ** For A/B/O, I'd prefer that omegas keep their male genitalia instead of having vaginas. **
I’m also interested in Soulmate AUs for these two: how does it tie in to their brotherhood? How old are they when they figure it out, and when they decide it's time to consummate? Feel free to sneak in some worldbuilding here.
How did they sneak around? Does Genshin know about their relationship? How quick did Holmes deduce them? What about their family? Does anyone ever walk in on them??
Judicial assistant Barok assists his beloved older brother at work. What better way to spend more time together? It’s a great way to get some office sex, at least. Does Klint take him out to crime scenes and court battles too?
Moral crises lead to so-called 'brotherly comforting' and intense secret pining ~
I'd love to see anything focused on Barok's reaction to Klint's catastrophic death. The immediate aftermath and his spiral into melancholia. Confronting his disillusionment with Klint's tarnished image, versus the strength of his feelings/love that will never, ever fade.
Deep in mourning, Barok assists himself through self-relief with some of Klint's old things. Particularly his clothing.
Ghost!Klint and his poor little darling. Does he purposefully choose not to reveal himself out of shame? Or is he desperately trying to make contact for ten long years?
Bring back Klint!! Somehow, anyhow, alone or with Genshin, just bring him back so that Barok has a chance at happiness again... T^T

Back to DGS

Asougi Kazuma & Barok

These prompts were originally written for AsoBaro as a " / " ship. I've done my best to adapt them for an "&" relationship, but if some hints of shippiness leak through, that's why! I am completely happy and interested in receiving a platonic work for them, so please don't get the wrong impression!

I'd love to see anything from the strange mentor - apprentice relationship they have, to something set during that week of intense hatred, to post-canon and their 'begrudging respect' for one another, which might eventually turn into something more.

The relationship between the Asougis and the van Zieks is super fascinating to me. I'm very interested in how they are essentially tied together by fate, intergenerational trauma, and all that <3 When it comes to Kazuma and Barok specifically, my favourite element of their dynamic might be how they are perpetually haunted by the past (Genshin, Klint). Does Barok see Genshin in every fibre of Kazuma? In Kazuma's eyes, is Barok a living reminder of his father's demise? I'm incredibly curious about their evolving dynamic and how they seek / find peace (or don't) with each other.

I am super fond of how messy the Asougi — van Zieks dynamic has grown since Klint's death... With Genshin standing between them as both Klint's killer and saviour, how in the world are Kazuma and Barok supposed to relate to each other without piles of resentment, angst and grief in the way? I love the idea that if the Professor murders had never taken place, Kazuma would have come to see the van Zieks as close family friends as he grew older and met / exchanged correspondence with them 💔 The what-ifs are so tantalising!

Equally so is the current state of affairs — where Barok's formerly amnesiac apprentice is angry, out for blood, grieving and confused... and all Barok wants to do is retire with his wine caskets to grieve a brother and old friend in peace T^T I think the fact that Barok can never repent (nor apologise) directly to Genshin, along with how Kazuma will surely be egging him on, continuously blaming Barok for events that aren't quite his fault, is a delicious recipe for a disaster of a clash — round two — in which neither of them will escape unscathed :'D

Romance?

I ship Barok with Klint and/or Genshin, if that's something you'd like to mention in the background, but no pressure to include those details at all — I only ask that you don't pair him up with OCs or other characters who aren't Asougis or van Zieks >.< (A little hint of Albert | Benjamin or Holmes is okay...!)

I can't help but see whatever relationship develops between Kazuma and Barok (whether that be familial, friendship, or one of distant professionalism and hatred — you get the drift) as occurring under the umbrella of past Barok -> Genshin — which I do feel was reciprocated, regardless of what may or may not have happened (though please don't feel like you have to include that if it's not your thing) — whether Kazuma is aware of it or not! If you do go that route — I have to wonder how Asougi feels about Barok's romantic feelings towards his father... (which may or may not have culuminated in a relationship, something he can't do anything about!) ~~And to think, he was already furious and confused about his father saving Barok's life...~~

I'm also fine with Kazuma having ~~background~~ relationships/feelings/pining in this scenario... whether it be for Ryuunosuke, Susato, even Jigoku or, hm... (older) Iris (that would make Barok MAD) — go wild! In addition, if you want to include some one-sided (unreciprocated? vague implications of?) pining on either Kazuma or Barok's parts, that's also fine with me. I just want to state for the record that I'm okay with including hints of romance — but I would be totally satisfied for this to be a 100% gen work as well! ^__^

Optional Prompts

AU in which Barok met young!Kazuma before the events of canon. I can only imagine how much tension that would have added...
De-aged Barok!! Kazuma is weak to his cuteness... Maybe meeting the famed innocent 'little darling' helps soften Kazuma up towards the mentor whom he previously hated so acrimoniously. Or maybe he's on babysitting duty for a tiny little prosecutor (whose eyes don't even reach past the bench xD). It certainly livens up their everyday routine ~
Barok and Kazuma using each other as outlets to let out the love and grief they feel for those who they can't have. (Who are no longer around.)
Barok, for whatever reason, winds up in situations with his mute apprentice. Does he suspect anything at all as to the mysterious man's identity? Do his eyes, or maybe his body language and sword play, remind him of Asougi...?
Omega!Barok and Alpha!Asougi — Is Barok under pressure to take a mate for societal reasons? Or perhaps Barok's secret dynamic is uncovered in the worst of situations? Does Kazuma have his memories back or is he still the amnesiac, masked apprentice? Is Kazuma understanding about it, or does he do his best to make Barok uncomfortable, out of anger? Taunts him about his lack of (or deceased) mate(s)?
When Barok receives his new apprentice from Stronghart, it is with the implication that the mysterious boy is to be more than just a servant. Maybe Barok doesn't intend on taking him up the offer, but his amnesiac disciple is desperate to do anything to stay in London...
At one point in the mentorship, Barok and his apprentice (during or post canon) are apprehended and abducted, to be humiliated and hurt by the mob.
Kazuma takes his anger over everything that has happened to his family out on Barok. Barok goes along with it because he is convinced he deserves it. Does Kazuma eventually express remorse and attempt to rehabilitate the both of them?
- Some other variation on Barok aching to repent for Genshin and putting himself at Kazuma's mercy. While they can't show it in public, when it is just the two of them Barok turns into a complete submissive. Kazuma doesn't take things too far, because he's still actively trying to run away from the darkness within him, but he might just use Barok as an outlet for his anger and resentment at times. Is it just Kazuma using Barok as a verbal punching bag, or do his fists (or swords) come out to play too?
In between his trip to Dover and serving Stronghart, Kazuma pays Barok a visit. Or maybe he drops by Barok's cell in the middle of the night? Any excuse for bitter arguments with fleeting moments of unexpected tenderness! While the intense hatred is still blazing on both of their parts, they wind up engaging in some reminiscing and catching up during that last frantic week of October. Perhaps Barok expresses his relief that Kazuma survived the trip that supposedly killed him...?
Eventually, post canon, the two are on decent terms. Somewhere along the line, Kazuma managed to gain newfound admiration for his mentor, and now he has to prove himself while trying to figure out how to get Barok to come to consider him family in turn. (It's not like they have many others around.) Little does he know, Barok requires very little convincing on that front. Bonus - with a side of scolding, mothering Kazuma.
- ↳ The tables have turned; Kazuma has grown exceedingly affectionate (whether he has forgiven Barok or not), but Barok cannot escape the guilt and the debt he feels towards the Asougis. He is wracked by doubt no matter how Kazuma tries to convince him to let it go.

Back to DGS

Holmes / Mikotoba

I’m absolutely obsessed with this variation on the traditional Sherlock/Watson dynamic. This partnership is the best plot twist I have ever experienced! They contrast and complement one another adorably. From shared parenting to forensic research, HomuMiko really has it all. I very much enjoyed their reunion on the couch of Baker Street, except I’m convinced they must’ve reunited otherwise after a solid decade of pining. Their dance of deduction was SO fun, and I was devastated that they had to separate so soon (though that was one painful and awkward goodbye…).

GAA Holmes’ eccentricity, dramatics and moods are very much played up in the best of ways. He is absolutely insane (I say this affectionately) and his unpredictability is definitely a part of the appeal for me. I love how he strives to protect, even at the cost of the truth, and to me he definitely has one of the most loving hearts of all the cast. Every time he talks about his mysterious partner (especially pre-reveal), I can feel the affection pouring out of him TT^TT Around other men, he is a total flirt and I very much headcanon gay bottom (or omega/sub in the case of AUs) Holmes because of his incessant teasing.

Mikotoba is an interesting foil to Holmes, what with his impeccable manners and patience. I never realised how strange and unusual he is too until looking back on his general behaviour post-reveal. He is so secretive and hides his cute & clutzy side well until Holmes comes along. I really enjoy the dynamics of their partnership, particularly the caretaker aspect which suits his doctor side well (and explains the age gap).

If you're interested in some omegaverse HomuMiko: I tend to prefer Alpha Mikotoba over Beta Mikotoba, but either is okay!

On Mikotoba & Ayame's marriage: I’m fine with having their love acknowledged, however, I would prefer the focus to be on Mikotoba’s feelings towards Holmes. I don’t want to see Ayame portrayed as his "one true love” or “soulmate”, and have Holmes come in second place next to her.

This could be set prior to them getting together, acting as a catalyst for getting them together, or set when they are already in an established relationship. Additionally, feel free to go with any timing (16-10 years ago, around or post canon...) Having an adolescent Holmes is completely fine with me!

Optional Prompts

I’d love to see them talk more science – maybe Holmes is always behind on his patents because he’s waiting for Mikotoba’s input? This iteration of Holmes clearly had a drug addiction at some point, if not still, and I’m very curious about how Mikotoba would have dealt with it. I would LOVE to see Mikotoba wielding sex as a replacement for other stimulants!! Does he relapse after Mikotoba leaves, when he is left alone with only a young Iris by his side?
I’m also interested in interpretations about how they got together as Mikotoba grieved, and how their friends and later, their family, discover their relationship. What if their partnership were revealed around the time of 1-5, when Holmes was shot and Mikotoba was purportedly on death's door??
- Set around 1-5: After he is injured, a delirious Holmes repeatedly asks for his partner/Mikotoba. This could involve Susato/Iris/Ryuunosuke/Barok/the hospital staff, etc.
Omegaverse AU: Mycroft interferes in Baker Street living arrangements because his unmated brother should not be living alone with an alpha. May include atypical physiques for their dynamics. What if Mikotoba had to help wean Holmes off of his suppressant dependency?
More Omegaverse: Mikotoba saves Holmes from heat in undesirable circumstances. Alternatively: Mikotoba gets caught up in breeding Holmes during heat/rut. Panic over their future and Susato ensues.
Mikotoba is (secretly) just as crazy as Holmes...
Holmes CLEARLY knows a fair amount of Japanese, and I'd love to get a peak into his 'education' ;)
I’m very attached to seeing them interact as a duo with all of their London acquaintances, especially in a 10-years pre-canon setting. Having them make a mess of Klint’s crime scenes with Gregson, Genshin and maybe even Barok present is such an exciting idea!! (Hopefully Klint remains in good spirits about it…)
Feel free to reinterpret old ACD cases, or come up with new, AA-style ones as you please – I’d love to see more dangerous HomuMiko whump, fighting and abduction that might lead to moments as a couple while high on adrenaline/having saved the day/relief. Mikotoba must have some special self-defence moves of his own, no? I'd love any take on this - going undercover, blackmail and coercion, outright kidnapping, failed rescue attempts, Mikotoba performing emergency surgery on Holmes or guiding Holmes to providing urgent medical care on himself, etc.
Perhaps Holmes' investigation goes awry and Mikotoba stumbles upon the most horrifying sight when he finally manages to track him down.
An unhappy client, or maybe a resentful victim, set up a kidnapping of the detective's prized partner as revenge for Holmes' actions. It's Holmes to the rescue!....or maybe not, as he ends up trapped himself, or forced to commit unspeakable acts in exchange for their freedom.
Alternatively: Their children and families threatened, the Legendary duo themselves become bargaining chips, and must submit to the terms of their extorters.
Of all people to "mistakenly" interpret a situation as fuck-or-die.......it would be Holmes.
(Although I'd laugh very hard at Mikotoba earnestly misunderstanding the situation, and Holmes going along with it just 'cause.)
After going through the most terrible ordeal, Holmes grows very clingy and Mikotoba tries to comfort him through their shared trauma (a getting together story, maybe?)
In any mutual non-con scenario, I'd love for them to have an unwilling audience of their peers...!
Since they are both so into dancing — is that their special form of foreplay? ;)
In general, I'm just super curious about their sex lives. Holmes seems like the type to need maintenance spankings, or else he’ll get out of hand. Is Mikotoba cautious, out of a lack of experience with men, or does he take a firm hand with Holmes?
I’m very attached to bratty bottom Holmes, though sweet and tender lovemaking is just as wonderful.
Seeing interpretations of their real reunion, or first time after ten years is one of my favourite scenarios. And now that they’re sometimes living with a full house of youngsters, do they ever get caught or have to scramble frantically to disguise what they were up to?
Holmes does s c i e n c e; or maybe he's simply an omega; or maybe mpreg is a thing in this universe. All I want is a baby growing in his belly, and Mikotoba's panicked reactions! I'd love to see his fears and excitement explored: How does he feel about having sired a second child after "abandoning" Susato back in Japan? (Or has Susato come with him in this verse?) How does he deal with his fears about Holmes dying in childbirth as did Ayame? I can see him growing very overprotective over his pregnant mate. If Holmes is older when he falls pregnant, what steps to they take to keep him healthy, and how do they plan to stay in the same country moving forward?
- The baby can be Iris, or an original baby! I'd be interested in seeing them talk about whose features the baby will inherit, who the baby will take after, what languages to teach them first, etc. Feel free to include their friends and family as well. I'm happy to see any setting, from the pre canon years to during/post canon or even canon divergence!
- A worrying Mikotoba assigns Holmes to bedrest; but Holmes can't stand the lack of stimulation and demands work - or leaves bed himself to find some.
- An experiment goes awry, and Holmes doesn't realise he can now get pregnant until it's already happened.
- Susato, Kazuma and Iris deal with the news that they're getting another younger sibling. How do the rest of the cast react?
  - If this is set pre-canon (or if you've decided to go for more AU elements), I would absolutely love to see Gregson's reaction to this pregnancy :D
How about some slice-of-life scenes after Iris's birth? Or, Holmes insists on accompanying Iris and Mikotoba back to Japan. Are there any identity shenanigans going on? Maybe Mycroft is involved in order to help forging their papers...
Imagine they had initially been planning to return to Japan together before Iris’s arrival… Holmes had no choice but to stay behind. Much grief ensues.

Or, forget canon! Holmes does go back to Japan with them to help raise their two daughters!
Alternatively: The Professor case never happens, and so things proceed as they were meant to

Perhaps Mikotoba brings baby Susato along on the exchange out of grief, or even a lack of choice. Holmes has no qualms about making this widower father his partner anyway.
- If you'd like to include Jigoku and Genshin too, I'd be interested in seeing how they interact with a grieving Mikotoba, and how they manage to draw him out of his shell and get him to London in order to meet Holmes. What are their interactions with Susato like, if there are any?
Set during the ten-year gap: Aborted attempts to visit each other, with ensuing disappointment upon each failure
Coping with the pain of separation through letters, keepsakes and secret communications. How about some coded letters filled with lascivious talk and longing? This could possibly include discussions of Susato’s and Kazuma’s growth, and how Mikotoba still considers Holmes to be his co-parent (and vice-versa).
Post-canon or canon divergence: Mikotoba is abruptly revealed to be Holmes' true partner; there are a lot of hurt feelings going around and the pair take their family and new friends' reactions very hard.
I remain unconvinced that what we saw on screen was the first time they met face-to-face after a decade-long separation. How do they actually reunite? Mikotoba was behaving strangely at the hotel… Show me new interpretations of Mikotoba's glorious return to London Town!
One word: Reichenbach.

THE INHERITANCE CYCLE

Murtagh Morzansson / Eragon Shadeslayer
Brom & Murtagh Morzansson & Eragon Shadeslayer

Requested Formats
10,000-word fic

DNWs

Amputation & Permanent loss of body parts (eyes, teeth, limbs, tails, wings & other non-human appendages) — applicable to all races
Gore beyond canon-typical levels
Unrequested gender / identity headcanons

This letter contains light spoilers for the novel, Murtagh, released last fall.

After reading Murtagh recently, I was inspired to delve into Alagaësia again and has it been a journey! I'm newly desperate for all the AUs, all the fix-its, all the moments we were robbed of and collectively hunger to see. Grr!

I love so many things about this universe: the politics between the races; the dragon-rider bond and the intense codependency & deep love that results from it; the ancient language and how it can be manipulated to control magic; the longer I think about it, the more this list grows.

Murtagh and Eragon

Again with the brothers... I need more of these brothers! 😭 I'm still fuming about not getting any direct Murtagh/Eragon interaction in the latest book, though every mention of their time together in the Hadarac desert, and Murtagh's not subtle longing to be on good, close terms with his half-brother drove me up the wall! I hate that they were driven apart by Galbatorix (though it was necessary, for Thorn's hatching), and even more than that, I hate that Murtagh fled without getting any prime attention from Eragon after Galbatorix's defeat. I'm so desperate to see more of them, even if it's fighting (whether that be with their swords or with their words).

I am a big fan of tragic brothers :D By accident of birth, these two led such different lives, and there is SO much potential both for AUs and for development post canon.

I like it when Eragon and Murtagh actually have 'good' times together — for instance, when they were journeying to / at the Varden during Eragon (because that's as good as it got, sadly). Short of that, they had a Talk (at least) before Murtagh fled at the end of Inheritance... please, may we have some more of that eventually...? T-T Because they are doomed to be separated, apparently (side-eyeing canon), we get a surprising amount of quality moments where Eragon and Murtagh are thinking about one another: Eragon, pondering Murtagh's plight and how to free him is always heartwarming <3 And I can't help but laugh every time Murtagh's mind drifts to his brother during the latest book. Just go to him already, would you!? Those simpler days, back from before you were captured, are within his reach — don't you think Murtagh and Thorn would be happier raising dragons?? I swear...

Eragon's empathy is certainly one of his assets, and I enjoy seeing it extend to Murtagh. He's certainly matured over the course of the series, and I think his compassion would do Murtagh a lot of good in his recovery!

Even after all this time, I can't help but be drawn to angsty Murtagh and his dogged desperation for freedom, no matter the cost. It was heartbreaking to see him newly deprived of it by the Dreamers, though it did give us a great opportunity to see how protective he is over Thorn (and I love it). I still wish Eragon could have swooped in and saved him sooner, but alas, that's not how canon works, is it ;__; On the other hand, while he and Thorn may make for a great pair, they aren't enough to keep each other safe and not lonely. Every time I remember Murtagh proclaiming Eragon as his brother on the Burning Plains — and subsequently, how hurt he was in the throne room to hear that they only share one parent — it makes me think about how desperate Murtagh is for real human connection; not only that, but the unconditional love that is family, and dragons, too (I expect), are supposed to promise. Please let him have it already, Mr. Paolini!!

Frankly, I just wanna see these two having some good times for once... or healing together, processing the nightmare of the past few years of loss and destruction while leaning on the one person who knows what it's like. Let them spend actual quality time together, dammit!! >.<

If you're content with canon divergence, I beg you to please save Murtagh and give him a better chance at life! I'll never say no to 'brotherly' hurt/comfort, and it would be great for Eragon to be able to rely on his big brother for once (instead of forging ahead blindly with a young dragon).

I'd love for Murtagh and Eragon to build a 'familial' (read: romantic) relationship – whether that necessitates canon divergence, off-screen moments, or something set post-canon. Go wild with (mutual?) intense protectiveness while they're trying to save the other from certain doom, or worrying themselves into a rut until their dragons have to nudge them out of it. These two always manage to find themselves in terribly risky situations... so I want Eragon to burst down the door and save both Murtagh and Thorn for once! Let Murtagh ask Eragon for help! Even better, let them have an ugly fight (or two, or three) about their respective upbringings and bring all of their resentment out into the open.

Whether you write this as a romantic dragonrider duo, siblings using each other as an outlet for sexual urges or an intensely emotional but platonic brotherly bond (and tie in Brom somehow), I'm fine with all of it — I just need more of this pair!

Optional Prompts

I'd love to see Eragon and Murtagh grow up together. Is Brom involved? How does he react? Or, let them find out about their relation earlier — perhaps with a traveling Brom accompanying them. I'm dying to see Murtagh rescued at some point — from Urû'baen, in the Tornac years or after Thorn's hatching, or from Bachel, you get the drift — and for him to rely on Eragon for once.

(What if Eragon and Murtagh found out about their shared parents after they were already involved? ... Discovering they only share one parent afterwards makes it even messier.)

Back to Inheritance

Brom & Selena's sons (Murtagh, Eragon)

I wish with all my heart that we could have gotten more of Dad!Brom >.< He was certainly a man of many secrets, many of which died with him. I desperately want to see more of him, whether that be his usual cranky yet shrewd, disguised self, or a more vulnerable, honest, family-man Brom — rider of Saphira, father of Eragon, slayer of Morzan and lover of Selena.

Definitely feel free to explore canon Brom and the brief moments we had with him before his untimely death T.T I do, however, crave some canon divergence where his relationships with both Eragon and Murtagh can be fleshed out and explored.

What does he think of Murtagh, the son of his former close friend? Does he see Morzan in him? What about Selena? Does that draw Brom to Murtagh, or repel him? If Brom had known where to find Murtagh, would he have risked it all, potentially separating himself from his son in the process, to save him? I'd love to see a conversation between these two. Let Brom live, and take Murtagh to the Varden himself!

I also would love to see more interaction between Eragon and Brom, both as acquaintances from Carvahall and openly as father-son. A different take on the 'I am your father' reveal would be delightful. What if Brom had survived? When would Eragon have found out the truth? Would Oromis have convinced Brom to admit Eragon's parentage? Or maybe Brom felt it no longer necessary after the "Shadeslayer" title replaced "Son of None". (Ouch!)

MURDLE

Deductive Logico / Inspector Irratino

Requested Formats
10,000-word fic or two 5,000 word fics

DNWs

Amputation & Permanent loss of body parts (eyes, teeth, limbs)
Focus on Logico and Irratino in other relationships (mentions are OK!)
Unrequested gender / identity headcanons

This letter does not contain any spoilers for the recently-released novels.

Please feel free to include any references to books 1, 2 or 3, should you so desire!

I’ve gotten very hooked on solving these daily puzzles, all because of this crazy entertaining detective/inspector pair. I love the contrast between Logico’s and Irratino’s approaches. Every Sunday date night brings me such joy! I’ve been playing on-and-off since the very first May, and would appreciate any references to puzzles I may have missed.

I’m very much into dynamics involving detectives and their partners (Holmes / Watson style or otherwise). I also dig ships with a lot of pining and cluelessness on at least one side. The juxtaposition of “logic” vs “occult” is very fun, and produces some great arguments over which one is best. Despite their disagreements, they still enjoy each other’s company (whether platonic or otherwise)! <3

I live for Sundays nowadays when we get date night! Pasta dinners, math lectures and bar visits are very much them. I also look forward to Logico’s surprise and anger over Irratino’s death (which he’s so distraught about, he can’t even clue in that it’s fake…). Otherwise, I enjoy the concept of Irratino’s occultish hints and the fact that Logico needs them in the first place :D Also, Irratino’s smugness if you make the wrong accusation is hilarious.

I enjoy Logico’s ‘logical’ personality, and how it often falls apart when it comes to Irratino. Especially his distress at the weekly deaths, and how he’ll support Irratino’s occult endeavours despite not believing in it himself. He might describe Irratino as “his old rival, antagonist and friend” but his affection certainly runs much deeper… as evidenced by the fact that he notes down astrological signs on his note cards despite not being a believer. I find it funny how he encounters deaths everywhere he goes – he’s like the classic shingami character.

I’m intrigued by Irratino’s choices in faking his death weekly to get Logico’s attention. He’s coming on to Logico so strongly! Why won't Logico notice him?! I love the image of his long hair and slight stature – I wonder if he ties it back regularly?

For these two, I‘d love to see an exploration of their backstory: how they met and fell for one another, how the "dates" started, what led to Irratino’s death faking, etc. I’m also very interested in their respective headspaces, particularly when it comes to logic/occult and their feelings. It would be hilarious to see the reactions of their coworkers, the daily criminals (“murdlers”), and other bystanders to their unique dynamic & ridiculous flirting. I’m convinced they must be close enough to go on holiday together, because how else would Irratino be around to provide his hints all the time?!

If you'd like to go the sexy (!) route, for this exchange, I would love to see top/dom/alpha (etc.) Logico, and bottom/sub/omega/pregnant (etc.) Irratino <3 I am a HUGE fan of mutual non-con, and I think seeing these two forced into having sex for an audience would probably be hilarious, if you want to work that in somehow.

I have a slight preference for a more practical take as opposed to a magical/fantastical one (say, where Irratino is actually dying every Sunday). Of course, feel free to play up the occult-ish, unexplainable canonical elements - such as locations (ex: the Old Ruins), and so on.

Optional Prompts

Just a series of scenes where everyone’s constantly thinking or saying “why aren’t they together yet?/are they dating?” For a sexy take: somehow it becomes very, very clear that they are sleeping together :D Alternatively, Irratino consults coworkers/suspects/bystanders about how to properly ask Logico out. Does Irratino construct a grid? Is Logico still clueless, or has he actually known/reciprocated all along?
Logico, Irratino and the Murdle cast get into huge misunderstandings about the state of their relationship. Maybe one of them perceives an (unintentional) rejection from the other? Or maybe they have a physical, but not quite romantic relationship that they are both secetly agonising over? Are any grids constructed in this process?
The first time Irratino fakes his death. Logico’s grief. (Also: how did Irratino develop this scheme? For attention? Is it an inside joke these days? Is he doing it to try and awaken Logico's latent feelings for him?) And times thereafter... (see the next prompt)
One day, Logico is fed up of yet another fake Sunday death. The fallout is disastrous. Based off of the "Surely, this time he wasn't faking it. That would just be too much." line.
For once, they find themselves in a REAL life-threatening situation! Maybe Irratino is in danger for once, or maybe one of them has to save his partner in a dramatic rescue attempt! Is one of them savvy in self-defence? I’d love for this to lead to a confession scene, romantic hurt/comfort or even surprise intimacy & sex!
In a similar vein: getting trapped by a bad guy and forced to copulate for an audience, oh no! ;)
Yet another variation: The time-honoured "undercover as a couple" trope, featuring public sex to demonstrate the legitimacy of their relationship status.
It ALL goes down at the prison! What if Logico were to be trapped with Irratino's supposed "corpse", and forced to do terrible, terrible things to it? Does he ever clue in that Irratino is still among the living, or does his rational side desert him in favour of making comments such as "oh, he still feels warm and alive when I touch his insides... he'll never forgive me for this!" And on the other hand, how does Irratino manage to stay "unconscious"? Is his acting terrible or has he really been knocked out, at least for part of it?
During one of the recent Sunday Murdles, Irratino’s body was found in the spa. I have to assume this means he was discovered in the nude… Logico reacts.
Create a new weekly date night! How does it go? Do they get embroiled in a murder case while out? Are they together or is this a friendly date? Are both parties looking for more? Do they get intimate afterwards? Some mutual pining would be great!
Every time they attempt to get down to business (or perhaps, are ready to head home after a steamy date), OR one of them attempts a confession/new date/proposal (etc.), a new murder occurs in their immediate vicinity. No wonder they're so cranky, they're constantly getting cock-blocked/kept apart by the universe!
Maybe they get into yet another debate over grids versus tarot cards. How long has this argument been going on - years? Decades?? Are either of them ever actually seriously offended by this fight??
I'd be interested in seeing something set in the early days of their relationship, perhaps when things were a little rougher between them. Was there any open antagonism? How did they get close?
A murder mystery, Holmes/Watson style. It would be great to see some aftercare of injuries or fights they get into! Feel free to reference the usual cast of suspects and their murder weapons. Does one of them have a tragic backstory to reveal? I'd especially love to see the rational Logico admit things he usually wouldn't while especially out of it, dazed from pain, etc. Is he the type to resist getting taken care of until he's in a very bad spot?
If you're up for an omegaverse or BDSM-style AU, I'd love to see something where one of them is keeping their dynamic secret from the other. Has Irratino been flying under the radar as a beta to continue his police work? Or is he the one very blatant in his identity, and instead Logico keeps secret that he could be very dangerous to Irratino were he to go off his suppressants?

If you’re looking for more material from outside canons, I love mystery series (ex: Detective Conan, the complete Ace Attorney series, Hardy Boys & Nancy Drew, Sherlock Holmes, etc.), so feel free to draw upon those worlds/ conventions or even create a crossover if that’s helpful! No pressure to go for casefic, though!

VATICAN MIRACLE EXAMINER

Hiraga Josef Kou / Roberto Nicholas
Hiraga Josef Kou / Roberto Nicholas & Hiraga Ryouta & Hiraga Jin
Hiraga Josef Kou / Roberto Nicholas & Hiraga Ryouta / Josef Lycolas Bartridge

Requested Formats
10,000-word fic or 10-page comic

DNWs

Amputation & Loss of body parts (eyes, teeth, limbs)
Gore and Horror beyond canon-typical levels
Hiraga (Kou) or Roberto having any unrequested romantic or consensual sexual experiences/relationships outside of requested pairing(s)
Male omegas that have vaginas instead of penises
Unrequested gender / identity headcanons

I love this wacky cast of crazy sweethearts from the bottom of my heart. I enjoy reading about them in all settings — from solving crazy mysteries to (rare) quiet, domestic settings. Of course, feel free to throw in some canon-typical horror / violence / insanity :D I wouldn’t mind some darker fic (along the lines of non-con, injury, death) or some emotional breakdowns and tears. If offscreen, I can deal with canon-typical levels of (body) horror. On the other end, I also love domestic fluff for the whole Hiraga (+ Roberto) family! Hurt / comfort is very suitable to this canon, as is any degree of angst. I also enjoy AUs, whether they be canon divergence only or things like Soulmate AU / Omegaverse. In other words, anything goes!

I enjoy how this series is intellectually stimulating (I'm a huge mystery fan!), while balancing out domestic fluff, existential angst, and whump. I came for the religious aesthetic, promises of early music, and the two male leads whom I thought might be ship-worthy. I stayed despite the horror tag because of the promise of something more to Hiraga & Roberto’s relationship, even if it turned into a decade-long slow burn. Roberto’s arc (the Sofuma trip) is probably my most favourite arc ever, and I knew from the moment it wrapped up that this fandom would become a lifelong obsession. Aside from the two protagonists, my next-favourite character is Hiraga Jin (Hiraga’s father).

P.S.: I’m both an anime watcher and a novel reader, so any canon/characters are fine by me! I’ve read most of the novels, and so I would be delighted to see anyone from the extensive cast.

Hiraga / Roberto

I adore how the Hiraga - Roberto pair interacts, how codependent their dynamic is and how much they care for one another. Pining and miscommunication is par for the course with them, despite being literal super geniuses. I’m very into the contrast between the two: Hiraga’s innocence and naivety versus Roberto’s maturity and jadedness, the size difference and contrasting specialties, their colour schemes, and more. Go wild with anything - crazy cases, danger at the Vatican, relaxing days off, breaking vows…

I love how Roberto is such a mess (said with affection). He’s book smart and super capable all around - a true Renaissance man - but he somehow turns into an absolute idiot when it comes to his own safety and just everything Hiraga. He might as well walk around wearing a giant sign saying “Hiraga is my biggest weakness. I would break my vows and die for him” in flashing neon lights (though he wouldn’t because what a terrible aesthetic that would be). Hiraga would also not survive without him, since he basically runs Hiraga’s domestic life. I enjoy how he cooks as stress relief and relentlessly chases after knowledge. I’m smitten with his self-destructiveness and self-hatred. Roberto whump scenes will never not be my favourite.

Hiraga is also a genius mess, without the same deep self-hatred. It’s inspiring to me how he always thinks the best of people and has love for quite literally everything. His faith is beautiful, and his admission that he would cast it aside if Ryouta died is also very telling. I suspect he is somewhere on the spectrum, as many geniuses are. Watching him hyperfixate and constantly fail to read the mood is always fun (sorry, Hiraga). Though his character has developed from how he was described in the first book, I’ll always be attached to the portrayal of him as constantly anxious and worrying about doing mundane things correctly. While being an absolute domestic mess, he would do anything for Roberto. His multiple attempts at proposals (matching brain scans, renovating his house for Roberto, searching for new recipes to try) are hilarious and make me feel a little bad for him sometimes. I adore how clueless and protective he is at times. If he ever lost Roberto, I’m certain he would fall deep into a dark pit of despair…

In terms of their ship dynamics, I'm fond of seeing their canon-typical interactions taken to the next level. Having Roberto in a caretaker/service sub-type role is always fun, and so are Hiraga's clumsy attempts to do something nice for Roberto (especially when Roberto is healed by his mere presence)! I enjoy explorations of tension wherein they're hovering on the verge of something deeper, and would absolutely love to see them break their vows outright and go for it. Also, the aftermath of said happenings is incredibly juicy, no matter where you take it!

My favourite canonical shippy moments include: the mouth-to-mouth when Hiraga feeds an unconscious Roberto water; The Suckening Scene & Roberto’s awakening; “I’ve come to love you more and more!”; anytime Roberto saves Hiraga, particularly when he’s using his body like a meat shield; when Roberto tells Hiraga that “you’re my life’s treasure”; Roberto’s many Hiraga hallucinations; Hiraga falling apart when Roberto gets kidnapped and crying; casually giving Hiraga a piggyback or carrying him on his shoulders COMPLETELY NATURALLY IN FRONT OF OTHER PEOPLE; every single cooking scene and exchange of casual touches… There are too many to list them all!

When it comes to explicit content — If you’re up for writing penetrative sex (for these Catholic priests, I know), I lean heavily towards preferring bottom!Roberto, but have no objections about switching/reversible if that floats your boat! I have a slight obsession with seeing Roberto cry during intimacy. I’m also very into the ‘super-handsome-intelligent-attractive-brilliant-Roberto-is-a-virgin-gasp!-no-way’ thing. For this exchange, I'd prefer for them to be each other's firsts, without any prior romantic or consensual sexual experience. Having past non-con is totally fine, however (e.g. abuse by clergy members in childhood).

I'd be happy with anything from flustered adorable first-times & get-together sex to they-don't-communicate-ever crazy guilty sex! I am a HUGE fan of mutual non-con and would absolutely adore something or someone made them do it.

The Hiraga family featuring Hiraga (Josef Kou) / Roberto
(& Jin & Ryouta)

After all he's been through, it would be really nice for Roberto to find himself adopted (not legally per se, but that's also an option!) into a nice family who would love him to pieces. If only there were one around... oh, wait! :D I'm sure Jin and Ryouta already care for him deeply, having heard years of Kou's praise for him. Do they meet during another visit to the Baden Hospital? Or is Roberto ever invited to their home in Germany? How about a Hiraga family trip to the Vatican, to pray for Ryouta's ongoing recovery? Of course, feel free to pick a completely different setting. Something set in healthy!Ryouta times could be fun - maybe musician Jin is playing a concert in Rome? Or, what if they accidentally meet up during an investigation in the U.S.A.? AUs are also very welcome!

I am deeply obsessed with Hiraga Jin... and by that, I mean I think about him every day. It's a little ridiculous for a character with mere seconds of screen time and barely a chapter or two in over a decade's worth of books >////< From what I've read about him, Jin is a musician who travels a lot for work and seems to have a good sense of humour. He would make such a wonderful father figure for poor Roberto! I tend to headcanon them as a little similar in terms of their skill with socialising, general knowledge (perhaps he has the trappings of a Renaissance man as well?) and so on - the skills Hiraga (Kou) is weak in. I also imagine him to be a classical musician. There's no canon basis for portraying him as a vocalist, but that's my current fixation!

Optional Prompts

Hiraga is furious with Roberto over yet another act of self-sacrifice
Also, Hiraga taking care of Roberto post-whump
How Hiraga finally gets it into Roberto’s thick skull that he loves him
A traumatised Roberto goes mute again, and Hiraga must pull him out of it
Meeting family members, and/or other people from their pasts. I’d be interested to see how they’ve changed since meeting each other.
Does anyone let slip a "I've never seen them so head-over-heels before!"?
Roberto meets his beloved Hiraga’s only living parent! Do they get along? What do they think about one another? I can see them as being quite similar — In the Germany novel, Jin seems to have a knack for telling stories — and I wonder how they’d bond over the Hiraga children. I have a huge thing for Jin becoming a sort of father figure to Roberto (and all the angst that entails). I imagine Jin is Hiraga’s (other?) emergency contact, so them meeting at a hospital or some other accident seems quite plausible.
I can’t escape the “Jin & Roberto are whumped together” plot bunny. Maybe it's the result of some chance abduction, or maybe somebody is targeting the Hiragas... I just want them to meet and get whumped together, causing Hiraga extra anxiety!
Alternatively, something happens to Kou or Ryouta...and they must all face their shared grief together.
Domestic Hiraga family scenes including Roberto. Roberto is taken in as one of their own
Galdoune kidnaps one or more Hiraga family members. It's Roberto to the rescue!
OR Roberto (& Ryouta? & Jin??) are the ones kidnapped; and it's up to Hiraga to save the day!
Any type of grand scheme that these two can find themselves caught up in. Perhaps it's Vatican politics? Or Julia's devastating plot to enlist them as Galdoune's servants. What if someone wanted to abduct Ryouta, or take Lauren, or even Jin, in order to manipulate Hiraga...?
I'm really into any kind of Roberto whump, so I'd love to see him attempting to sacrifice himself for Hiraga, getting injured somehow and possibly finding himself on the brink of death... you get the gist. De-aged Roberto to the time of the Brono attack (was he three? Five? Canon contradicts itself so please feel free to play around here) would be amazing. What did Brono *really* do to him, huh?... (Feel free to turn this mature!)
I'd be equally excited to see upset Hiraga, whether because Roberto is attempting to sacrifice himself, has been hurt in a situation Hiraga could not help him in, has disappeared (again), or worse! "even if the entire world turns against you I will never doubt you" sounds suspiciously like a certain canon line >.> On top of that, "trying to be useful so that other(s) will keep you around" was practically written for Roberto and I will die on this hill.
Undercover on a case where they're forced to fake a relationship. Much pining ensues...
General misunderstandings about the state of their relationship: does one of them think they're dating? Or, thinks that they've already been rejected? (I can see this going either way)
If anyone were to continue pining once they were already in a relationship because of some misunderstanding or another, it would be these two... (sigh)

Mature Prompts

Getting 'walked in' on in a compromising situation by Jin and / or by Ryouta!!
Alternatively, any cast member suits :D (Bill & Elizabeth, Archbishop Saul, Lauren, Dr. Singh...)
Ridiculous foreplay and blasphemy as pillow talk
Hiraga's strange science kinks make their way into the bedroom you know he has them
Service sub Roberto, with or without a praise kink. Maybe with some D/S undertones too...
Hiraga turns to BDSM to help Roberto cope with trauma & stop acting self-destructively
↳ OR Hiraga uses sex as a tool to keep depressed!Roberto content and alive
Consummating their relationship whilst in the middle of an investigation
Mutual non-con where they're forced to break their vows. I.e., bad guys made them do it, actually enabling them. Or, they vastly misinterpreted the situation. With a side of religious guilt! And possibly threats of medical experimentation.
Getting together and holding their wedding night at last. Or any excuse for consummating their relationship.
Pregnant Roberto!! (This could be a miracle, omegaverse, again, any excuse really.)
I'd also LOVE to see pregnant Roberto, Roberto getting tied up by Hiraga for whatever reason (someone has to stop him from running off and getting himself into trouble), Hiraga using s e x to save Roberto's life, mutual non-con (!!!) or whatetever else strikes your fancy. Sexifying the already sexy snake suckening scene — or other scenes of your pick, whether they be from the anime or the novels — would be great! Or, if you'd like to write a marriage fic for these two, please do! <3
Galdoune (or another enemy) finally succeeds in bringing about Roberto's undoing. Maybe through suicide, maybe through an "accident" or outright murder. As a last resort, Hiraga tries to resurrect his corpse with sex. Whether he succeeds or not is up to you.
Either Hiraga or Roberto is ridiculously endowed. If it's Roberto, cue Hiraga's oral fixation & extensive body worship. If it's Hiraga, Roberto can discover his size queen side :D

Back to VME

Hiraga Josef Kou / Roberto Nicholas & Hiraga Ryouta / Josef Lycolas Bartridge

Hiraga Ryouta / Josef Lycolas Bartridge

These two make for an unlikely ship, but that hasn’t stopped me yet. I see so much potential in them following the events of Sinfonia / Episode 12. They share a lot of parallels: terminal illness and long-term hospitalization, pining (platonically or otherwise), the search for meaning, and so on.

I’m drawn to Ryouta's purity and his ties to the supernatural. He’s wise in a way that suggests he had to grow up too fast following Ada’s (his mother’s) death, and the appearance of the hooded figures. Knowing someone near him is meant to die soon must be such an incredible burden, especially for one so young who also has to grapple with his impending death. I see a lot of similarities with Roberto in him, especially his tendency for self-sacrifice and deep love for his older brother.

As for Josef, he also carries that same grief and desperation for meaning over his looming demise. I’m quite intrigued by how he was beloved by all during his boarding school days. He’s the mentor figure for Roberto and Ryouta, which has a lot of potential for exploration. His method of enticing Roberto to begin speaking through curiosity really raises a lot of questions for me about his personality. I wonder to what extent he embodies Hiraga’s traits too.

There’s some great potential here for ghost!Josef, or coma!Josef/amnesiac! Josef who was alive all along. They might bond over Roberto, extended hospitalization, books, and all sorts of wonderful things. What does Ryouta think of Josef and the Roberto / Hiraga situation? Do they pine after Roberto together, knowing he’s best off in Hiraga’s grasp? Or does Josef start to fall for the bits of Roberto he sees in Ryouta, and Ryouta the same re: his brother? Maybe they get over their respective crushes on Hiraga/Roberto by falling for each other. (Or maybe they just pretend to and drown their sorrows in sin (sex?). Feel free to delve into any and all sorts of wacky AUs wherein Josef protects Ryouta from death, illness, the three hooded men, etc. Alternatively, go the dark route where Ryouta finally passes from illness and Josef is there to guide him to Heaven. Maybe they bond while passing time together in the afterlife? Or maybe ghost!Josef tries to help Ryouta explore some experiences he'll never grow old enough to achieve on his own? And, can't forget about Galdoune! Are they involved in this pair's survival? Do they ever spirit them away? They would make great candidates for some medical experimentation once everyone thinks them dead...

What do Hiraga and Roberto make of this improbable pair? Maybe Roberto encourages them, believing that they're good for each other. While I DNW-ed 'past relationships', I'm okay with Roberto having had a crush on Josef. Does Hiraga get over-protective over his brother, or is he simply happy that Ryouta is living long enough to have all of these novel life experiences? Background Hiraga/Roberto would be much appreciated if you’re up for including them!

When it comes to these two and explicit content, I have no top/bottom preferences. Go wild!

Optional Prompts

Stuff goes down at the Baden hospital…
Ghost!Josef comforts Ryouta (in a way only he can?) <3
Ryouta can sees ghosts/spirits, and therefore is the only one to see Josef hanging around
Ghost hanky panky (that may or may not all be in Ryouta's head)
Soul sharing, or Ryouta as Josef’s reincarnation. What does this mean for their connection? And for Ryouta's relationships with others (particularly Roberto...)??
Josef is alive and becomes Ryouta's confidant. Do Roberto and the Hiragas find out eventually? What sort of secrets does Ryouta confide in him? (Clearly he’s an adult by now, but feel free to play around with hospitalization regulations or have Josef be cured already.)
One day, Ryouta is kidnapped by Galdoune for experimentation purposes, and meets Josef, author of the journal he found in the hospital library. What happens to them, and what are they forced to do...? Perhaps they undergo rather unfortunate experiences together... >.<
Either Ryouta or Josef have to take a 'special' medication to manage their cancers, and it has *certain* side effects...