#<- this tag is a surprise tool that will come in handy later

[spyder-m]

RR/IH - "Odd One Out"

Summary: All Ichigo wanted was to catch the latest Bad Shield United movie. Instead, he ended up having to play chaperone to his two Shinigami friends. His very handsy Shinigami friends.

AO3

Ichigo grumbled, focusing his gaze directly on the projector screen ahead of him; a desperate attempt to blot out the tangle of limbs and lips smacking beside him. 

He had been looking forward to finally catching the new Bad Shield United movie all week, after hearing his friends hyping it up for so long. Though, between adjusting to his new workload at University and still dealing with the occasional Hollow, it had been difficult for Ichigo to find a session that worked with his schedule. 

The film’s popularity wasn’t helping either, as most screenings sold out well in advance. Even if one of Ichigo’s lectures was cancelled leaving him with an opening, buying a ticket at such short notice was simply out of the question.  

Thankfully though, with midterms coming to an end there was a lull in his classes, as major assessments were graded and plans for the next semester of material began. 

Noticing he had a Sunday free, Ichigo indulged himself and bought a ticket. Happy, for once, not to have to devote his spare time to cram classes or revision.

He had reached out to his friends, asking if they might be interested in joining. But sadly, since graduation, their lives were all branching out in different directions, making it harder to find a time where they could all meet. 

Though, Ichigo could at least take comfort in knowing he’d be able to enjoy the movie without Ishida's snide commentary, Keigo's whining, or Mizuiro texting girls throughout the entire showing. 

Or at least, he had thought. 

As fate would have it, there were two others who happened to have an opening that day and decided to tag along. Normally, Ichigo wouldn’t mind, however, there was a catch. 

It had been about two weeks since Ichigo had, unknowingly, made the grievous error of arriving home early from class. 

His family hadn't been expecting him until later on so the house was empty. Though he could still make out his father working away in the clinic, tending to patients.  

As much as he loved his family, Ichigo had to admit, they were a handful and the silence made for a refreshing greeting. 

He looked forward to savouring the next few hours of peace before they returned. 

Slipping off his jacket as he entered his room, Ichigo wondered how he could best take advantage of his now free afternoon. 

As he opened his closet, however, Ichigo was surprised to find it already occupied. 

Although it had been a while, it wasn’t unusual for Rukia to visit, particularly unannounced. 

Despite his family preparing a spare room for her, she still liked to try and worm her way into his closet; perhaps finding the enclosed space familiar and comforting. Though he could never understand the need for her to stop by, considering she rarely stayed in the Human World longer than a day, too busy with her own duties as an acting Captain back in the Soul Society. 

If nothing else, it seemed she found it a handy place to keep her belongings whenever she stopped by. That is, judging by the slew of cutesy-looking Shinigami tools scattered around that Ichigo knew definitely weren’t his.

What did take him by surprise, however, was the closet’s already cramped confines being tested by the much taller, bulkier form of Abarai Renji. 

Under different circumstances, this might not have been unusual either.

Rukia had mentioned before, as a Substitute-Shinigami, it was Ichigo’s duty to provide storage to members of the Gotei 13. So, it wasn’t unusual for random Gigai to find their way into his closet whenever someone stopped by to clear out hollows. Honestly, it was a mild inconvenience compared to the meetings of random Sereitei associations and clubs his bedroom would often involuntarily play host to. At least the former was, relatively, out of his way.  

So, over time, he had learnt to put up with it. 

What Ichigo was met with on this day, however, was something that severely pushed the boundaries of those already flimsy terms. 

This was a distinctly half-naked Renji, his hair loose and upper body littered with teeth marks and small bruises as his robe pooled around his thighs. He wasn’t the rigid weight of an empty Gigai, but instead making frenzied, desperate movements as he pushed himself impossibly close to an equally naked Rukia, his tongue searing a line between her breasts. Rukia threw her head back, eyes glazed and unfocused as sweat-matted hair pooled against her bare skin. 

With an unflattering shriek, Ichigo slammed the door closed, his head whipping to the side as if to shield himself from the sight.

Unfortunately, despite his quick reflexes, he had still caught enough of his friends’… that the afterimage was still burnt distinctly into his consciousness. 

As it flashed before his mind's eye, Ichigo stood frozen, hand slipping loosely from the handle as the weight of what he had seen slowly processed. 

Ichigo felt his skin flush, a plethora of emotions flowing through him. Beyond the initial mortification and awkwardness of walking in on two of his best friends' foreplay, it was surprise that struck him most vividly. Though, not so from finding the two together. 

Ever since he and his friends had breached the Soul Society and stopped Rukia’s execution, her and Renji’s friendship had been rekindled. From that day, Ichigo rarely saw one without the other. Whether it was charging into battle, mounting coordinated attacks or casually turning up in the human world, they were inseparable. At times, they even made their entrances with perfect synchronicity.

Even the most innocuous words or gestures he caught between them carried a restrained intensity as if holding back something deeper. 

This was no more apparent than the time Renji had lifted Ichigo up from the brink of despair, as they headed to confront Ywach Back then, Renji had vowed to always push him forward, forever indebted to him for bringing them back together. 

In Ichigo’s mind, despite how much they might deny it, he had always believed something more would eventually blossom between them. 

Though, with how long they had tip-toed around one another, Ichigo sensed that might not be until he was at least a hundred years old. 

That’s why he was stunned to have found them acting upon their feelings in the most direct, carnal manner. 

For that reason, Ichigo knew what he had witnessed couldn't have been some recent, spur-of-the-moment development. He knew the two well enough to know they wouldn't want to risk tarnishing their friendship unless they were seriously, romantically pursuing one another. 

Even with their decades of history, he was sure that such intimacy would have taken weeks, months even, to reach, meaning they must have been together, in secret, for some time now. 

The shock flowing through Ichigo was brief as he soon made out the faint scurrying and hushed, frantic voices carrying from the other side of the thin wooden door. It seemed the couple had caught onto the fact they'd been found out and were quickly scrambling to make themselves presentable. Ichigo, however, wasn’t sure he could stomach facing them just yet. 

Having finally regained the ability to form coherent thoughts, Ichigo’s voice broke once more, calling their names amongst a mix of obscenities, before storming out of the room in a cold sweat.

To his luck, the hallways were still empty, despite the commotion. 

No one, it seemed had arrived home. 

Ichigo breathed a sigh of relief. He wasn’t sure he’d have been able to cover for himself after bursting loudly and abruptly out of his room like that. Worse still, he dreaded the idea of having to shield his younger sisters from stumbling in on the two naked idiots in his room. 

Knowing that he was alone, Ichigo headed towards the bathroom, needing a moment to collect himself without being interrupted. 

He ran a cool splash of water over his face, all the while making thorough plans to burn the entire contents in his closet. He would really miss those clothes, his Nice Vibe and NMNL shirts, his favourite pairs of jeans.

As Ichigo made his way back out into the hall, he braced himself with a heavy exhale. 

Before he could enter his bedroom, however, he was greeted by his friends already waiting by his door. Mercifully, they were dressed, though still flushed and noticeably dishevelled.

He hadn’t expected them to be nervous. Yet there were flashes of genuine apprehension in their eyes that gave him pause, his initial dread giving way to concern. It was ill-fitting for two people usually much more confident in themselves. 

However, for reasons beyond the simple awkwardness of that moment, they seemed hesitant to speak with him. As though worried over what may stem from this conversation. 

"Heey Ichigo," Rukia greeted, her voice and smile both strained; the precursor to a loaded, uneasy conversation.

.

When Rukia and Renji had finally rekindled their friendship, it had been in the wake of Aizen’s betrayal, threats of his next move still looming. 

For the time being, any old feelings they’d held for one another were silently set aside. 

After all, they believed, naively, they would have plenty of time to address them later. 

They were grateful enough just to be a part of each other’s lives again. 

The Thousand Year War, however, proved otherwise. As their initial clash with the Quincy saw them both gravely injured to the point of almost losing their lives. Even some of those close to them weren’t as lucky. 

They had recovered together, confined to those two cold, infirmary beds, an arms-length apart, drifting in and out of consciousness. 

They honed in on the steady flow of the others' breathing, their heart rate, clinging desperately to it, driven to pull through. 

It gave them time to reflect and understand what really mattered most to them. 

But, perhaps most crucially, it became increasingly clear that their lives; though much longer than the average human’s; were just as fragile. Just as easily capable of being ripped away. 

The second chances they had been handed with were too precious to waste with trepidation. 

While training with Squad Zero, forging connections with deep, powerful and unrealised facets of themselves. Feelings they had tried to brush off were only intensified, confirmed as meaning exactly what they had been too stubborn or afraid to admit. 

The two gathered the nerve to act upon their shared feelings. 

Initially, they were happy enough to alleviate themselves of that weighty, unresolved desire and tension. Strengthening themselves with clarity, mental and emotional fortitude unlike they had ever known before. Enough so that they began to believe should this war be what took them, they could pass without any regret.

At the war’s end, however, they were blessed. Not only to have survived but to be able to have a future together. No longer burdened by the weight of love unexpressed, with everything out in the open. 

For the first time, it felt as though the life they had yearned for in Rukongai was truly beginning. 

Still, despite the joy this newfound connection brought them, they had yet to tell Byakuya and were dreading what his reaction may be. 

The admission surprised Ichigo. Knowing how much the man loved his sister and had come to trust Renji as his second-in-command, he couldn’t imagine Byakuya disapproving of their relationship. 

Though, thinking on it longer, he wondered if it had something to do with noble Clan politics. 

Even though Renji was respected as a Lieutenant, he was still a man of common birth without a family to his name. Someone traditional clan elders would likely turn their nose up at. 

Not to mention, if they were to raise children of their own, it could bring up the discussion of potential heirs to the Kuchiki Clan.

For that reason, Renji and Rukia wanted to hold off from revealing their relationship. At least until Rukia had officially taken her place as the Thirteenth Division’s Captain. That way, she may be in a better position to ward off any protests. 

While the news was made known to only a select few of their friends, Renji and Rukia would try to keep their relationship in the Spirit Realm as professional as possible. No public displays beyond what might be shared between good friends. 

This, however, quickly proved difficult. 

Even venturing outside of the Soul Society was too much of a risk. 

Even if they somehow managed to avoid being caught out by one of their colleagues, there was the chance that rumours might spread about them; particularly given Rukia's status.

They didn’t want to have to be on guard every time they planned a romantic evening together, and while they enjoyed the privacy of their own quarters, there was only so much that they could do together. 

It was for that reason they were drawn to the human world. Not only did it feel safer, but it offered many exciting ways to spend time together, with tasty unfamiliar foods and a plethora of new, exciting activities. 

Though there was one disadvantage that came with confining themselves to that realm. They didn’t have the luxury of returning to their own homes when they wanted to be alone. 

Opening a Senkaimon and passing back through the Dangai was a possible solution but it couldn’t exactly be done in a timely manner. Not to mention, by the time they made it home the mood would have likely passed.  

So, against her better judgement, Rukia had suggested Ichigo’s room, which led them to where they were now. 

It became obvious to Ichigo why they had been so anxious to talk. That they were afraid news of their relationship might spread through him and the happiness they’d been experiencing could be at risk.

Honestly, Rukia wasn’t sure she could blame Ichigo if he chose to do so. They’d been selfish, going against his trust and encroaching on his privacy; all for their own selfish desires. 

What if Isshin-san or one of Ichigo’s sisters had caught them? 

Fortunately for them, Ichigo wasn't so needlessly cruel that he would reveal their relationship against their wishes. 

As far as he was concerned, it was happiness the two deserved. 

Besides, he was hardly fond of gossip to begin with. He would gain nothing from outing them. 

So, Ichigo agreed to keep their relationship secret, provided they promised to stop using his room for after-date rendezvous. 

Rukia, though, was still worried they would raise suspicions if she and Renji were both frequently visiting Karakura. Particularly when, with Aizen and Ywach vanquished, there weren’t as many missions in the real world that called for Gotei members of their capability. Especially with Ichigo and the others around to assist in clearing hollows. 

So, more often than not, they would use visiting Ichigo as an excuse for their frequent trips, even coercing him tag along with them; as he was already privy to their secret. 

What Ichigo hadn’t realised, however, was that Rukia and Renji only having this limited window to be together publicly would see trying to release all the pent-up urges they couldn’t in the Soul Society, for fear of being caught. Making them extra… handsy.  

Since the encounter in his room, the two now appeared completely unbothered by his presence and would ravish one another with little to no restraint. Any awkwardness at the time, it seemed, stemmed from fears of their relationship being outed, rather than the novelty of being walked in on by a friend. Once those worries were dispelled, any earlier inhibition expressed by the two was abruptly cast aside. 

Ichigo growled, his eyes trained deliberately on the projector screen ahead; a desperate attempt to blot out the tangle of limbs and lips smacking beside him. 

All he’d wanted was to finally catch the new Bad Shield United movie after hearing his friends hyping it up for so long. 

Instead, he found himself playing chaperone to his two, much older, Shinigami friends. 

They were still, clearly, in the honeymoon phase of their relationship, and considering it was founded on the back of more than forty years of unresolved tension, they seemed determined to make up for lost time. 

Upon first entering the theatre, they were quick to notice how the armrest separating their seats could be lifted, allowing Rukia to make herself comfortable in Renji’s lap. 

Ichigo rolled his eyes, already having an idea of where this would lead, but kept his gaze fixed ahead, trying to pretend like he didn’t know them. 

It wasn’t long into the previews before the two were giggling, whispering and sucking on each other’s necks like a pair of hormone-riddled teenagers. 

Ichigo couldn’t have imagined he’d one day long to go back to when the pair had constantly been at each other’s throats. Yet, right now, he would be willing to take anything over having to sit beside his two closest friends caught in the throes of lust. 

It was excruciatingly awkward. 

Equally so, he could imagine, for the dozens of other people in the cinema. 

He didn’t understand why those two even bothered with Gigai if they were going to draw so much attention to themselves. 

They weren’t exactly conspicuous as it was. What with their distinct height difference, Renji’s bright hair, tribal tattoos and clothes that were at least two decades out of date. Not to mention the overly stiff and archaic way Rukia spoke to others, a dialect she claimed to have picked up from reading his volumes of Shakespeare.  

They should have known to reign themselves in. 

He knew they were from an entirely different world with its own customs but surely they had some concept of consideration for others? 

Apparently not, Ichigo realised. As, against his wishes, he was drawn to a broken shudder spilling from Rukia’s lips as Renji’s hand slipped underneath her top. 

At that point, Ichigo had had all he could take. 

“Oi!” he growled, elbowing Renji in the ribs. “Will you two knock it off?! You’re going to get us kicked out!”

Mercifully, Renji extracted himself from Rukia’s mouth, his hair dishevelled and bandana askew. There was a delirious but contented haze flooding his eyes. Rukia’s eyes fluttered open, a pout pulling across her face as her own delirium passed and she registered the sudden lack of Renji’s lips against her own. 

At another point, Ichigo might have expected a more violent response from Renji; be it raising his voice or slugging him back. But, he had mellowed noticeably since being with Rukia. Perhaps owing to the literal decades of unresolved tension that had been lifted from his shoulders. 

His once hair-trigger temper had shifted into a relaxed confidence, his expression resting in a perpetual, smug grin. 

So, instead of lashing out, he opted to lounge back comfortably against their seats, lifting his arm as Rukia nestled back in place against his chest. 

The two returned their attention to the film, no doubt completely lost trying to follow the plot as they had spent the better part of it attached to each other’s faces. 

Hopeful that there wouldn’t be any more disturbances, Ichigo pinched the bridge of his nose before turning back to the screen with a sigh. While Bad Shield had never been particularly plot-dense, he too found himself struggling to follow what was going on; his attention having been divided between the movie and his friends. 

Ichigo sighed in frustration, already mentally planning a time to catch the next encore screening. 

He was happy for his friends, honestly. It touched him even more knowing that he had apparently played an role in helping to bring them closer again, something they both felt indebted to him for.

Yet it felt as though they were doing everything in their power to cause trouble for him. 

Even as the credits rolled and they exited the theatre together; Ichigo, by some miracle, not having resorted to murdering the two; they seemingly couldn’t go a moment without shared contact.

Rukia leaned heavily into Renji’s side, as if suddenly incapable of holding up her own body weight. Their hands were intertwined as they strolled leisurely back out into Karakura’s shopping district, Renji’s stride slowing to match Rukia’s shorter steps. 

Ichigo hung back slightly, allowing the pair some space. For his sake, as much as theirs. As unbothered as they seemed, Ichigo wasn’t comfortable hovering around them during such intimate, private moments. 

Though, he still wasn’t sure he could trust them enough to let them entirely out of his sight. 

As they lingered in his periphery, Ichigo was surprised by how much their relationship seemed to have changed, how differently they behaved around each other. 

Renji was uncharacteristically gentle. 

Having grown up on the streets together, knowing and respecting her strength as a fighter, Ichigo was more accustomed to him approaching Rukia with the same bravado he would a member of the Eleventh.

Renji carried a strength deliberately honed through years of training. Perhaps it was because Ichigo most often saw him fighting; trying to channel that power to the fullest; the sight of him reigning it in, handling something with such care and delicacy seemed off.

While Rukia’s face was not set with the smug, knowing grin or scorn Ichigo had known her to address him with, but was soft and serene as she regarded Renji. 

Though, as Ichigo thought about it, perhaps changed wasn’t the right word. There had always been trust and intimacy between the two. It was familiar but to a more intense degree. 

Still, the sight of them gazing longingly at one another, eyes shining, was almost enough to make him want to turn away. He wasn’t entirely sure why. It’s not like there was anything offensive about the sight of the two. If anything, it was sweet. 

But it just felt wrong, seeing two people he was close to, considered almost family, acting like that. 

Not to mention, he wasn’t sure he’d ever experienced that state of mind. Being so lost in your own feelings that you become completely unaware of your surroundings. 

Though, he supposed he was the wrong person to judge. 

He’d never really been one for romance.

There had been far more pressing matters to worry about during his teenage years, and he’d missed out on a lot of those crucial moments; crushes, first dates, kisses. 

Still, he didn’t feel short-changed because of that. 

He had friends and family who he cared for deeply. As far as he was concerned, that was enough affection for him. It kept him fulfilled and happy. 

He'd finally managed to find some semblance of peace and balance in his life and wasn’t looking to complicate things. 

“Kurosaki-kun!”

The soft, familiar voice broke Ichigo from his stupor, pulling him back toward the Cinema’s entrance. 

He found Inoue approaching him hesitantly, sensing she had caught him deep in thought.

“Inoue? What are you doing here?”

“I was going to meet Tatsuki-chan.”

“Oh. Right.”

“Did you come with your family?” Inoue asked, glancing around. “Or are you by yourself?”

“No, Rukia and Renji are with me too.” Ichigo answered, eyes drifting across the outdoor plaza eventually spotting them standing outside a stall selling sunglasses, which had no doubt caught Renji’s attention. 

Rukia had found a ridiculous white pair with rabbit ears extending from the frames and was trying desperately to slip them over Renji’s eyes. Each time though, Renji would simply stand taller or brush her hands out of reach. The laughter spilling from his lips suggested he wasn’t actually opposed to the gesture but resisting playfully. 

“Aren’t they so sweet together?" Inoue sighed, clasping her hands together. "I’m really happy for them.”

Ichigo blinked, surprised, at first, to know that Inoue was apparently privy to their relationship. Had Rukia already shared the news with her? He wondered. Or perhaps, like him, had she always suspected there was something between them?

Beyond that, he was drawn to the tone of her voice. It was almost wistful. Every so often, Ichigo’s gaze would flicker back to her, as she closely watched the couple. Not quite able to parse her expression. 

After a moment, she snapped back to attention, eyes widening with a momentary panic. 

“Ah, I’ve got to go! It’s almost time for the movie! I’ll see you later, Kurosaki-kun!”

“O-oh. Yeah,” Ichigo nodded. “See you, Inoue.”

Ichigo's gaze held longer than necessary as she moved toward the cinema, a bounce in her step and a radiant smile lighting her features. Even after Inoue had already turned and made her way inside, he couldn't pull his eyes from the thick waves of auburn hair, glimmering in the evening twilight, slowly slipping from his view. 

He felt compelled by a protective urge to keep her in his sight, despite there being little that could bring her harm and Shun Shun Rikka being more than enough to keep her safe. It was in his nature, he reasoned. The same thing he would do for his sisters, his father (begrudgingly) or any other one of his friends. 

If for nothing other than his own, selfish comfort, Ichigo kept her in his sight, to the point that he almost lost his footing on the stairs outside the complex. Reflexively, Ichigo righted himself, with a blush, eyes darting the area around him, as though he'd just now become conscious of the crowd. 

Luckily, it seemed like no one had caught notice of him. 

The waves of people milling around the concourse were talking and laughing happily together, caught up in their own busy lives. 

Somehow, he had just drowned it all out. 

It was strange. 

He'd completely lost focus. 

It was almost as bad as Renji and Rukia-

Oh, Ichigo realised, catching himself. Uh oh.

[xxalexislost19xx]

Okay, so my sister and I came up with a game.

(At least I think we came up with it. If it already exists, I apologize, but as far as I know, we have conjured up this new form of torture)

Premise: absolute chaos

Needed materials: any kind of medium-sized balls (😏) or any other yeetable object that causes moderate/ minimal damage when thrown at a human.

Players: as many dumbasses as you can find. Preferably 5 or more.

Best setting: college campus (my personal favorite), park, campground, etc. Pretty much any open space with obstacles/ hiding places.

Rules: There are objectives and guidelines, but no rules.

Okay, so I made up a game called apocalypse, which is pretty much a crossover between zombie tag, hide-and-seek, and dodgeball. Think man hunt, but better. I have never actually played this with more than one person or in public, but I have thought a lot about this and fully intend to institute this insanity on anyone I can. Basically, there is one person who is the "hunter," and the other people are (obviously) the "hunted." (No idk what "hunter/ hunted" has to do with the concept of apocalypse, but use your imagination.) All the players start out in a central location, whoever the hunter is will have a projectile of some sort and more projectiles on hand (it's a surprise tool that we'll save for later.) The hunter will close their eyes and count to whatever integer the group sees fit while everyone else scatters like roaches. When the hunter is done counting, they will set off in pursuit of finding the hunted. When they locate said victim, they will throw their projectile at the target, and if the target is hit, they're automatically given a projectile and are now a hunter. If the hunter misses the target, the target can pick up the projectile and swap places with the hunter that threw. The hunter now has to run from the original target. This goes on until one person is left, and they are notified that they have won.

Now, the best part of this game is that winning is not a matter of having speed or stamina, but strategy is also quite effective. Whether you are a hunter or hunted, you always have the option to take either the defensive or offensive strategy. Defense means using hiding and sneakyness to achieve your objective instead of running at the beginning of the game. Finding a hiding spot or lookout point to confide in. Offense involves staying mobile and relying on your speed and dodging abilities to master the game.

The other fun aspect you can add to this game is the exchanging of intel. Perhaps you are a hunter who is feeding information to the hunted, a hunted with a particularly good hiding spot that warns other hunted of when they are in danger. Maybe you even get caught by a hunter and agree to tell them where other hunted are in exchange for immunity. This is where having cellphones comes in handy. A lot of backstabbing potential comes from communicating with other players, so you never know who you can actually trust.

Doing this in a public place is also a fun aspect of the game. Innocent bystanders might witness this tomfoolery and either be really intrigued or annoyed. If the first is true, you might get a few extra players, which adds even more intrigue and confusion to the whole thing.

That is my idea, and if anyone tries it, please let me know how it goes cause this sounds like it could go either very wrong or very right.

[progenyroyal]

Re: Transcendence candidates Madelyn Binoche has been working with us since her initial occupational designation four years ago. She shows great promise, with excellent work ethic, diligence, and dedication to her assignments. Her temperament is best suited for solo work, and although she has no known relatives who have successfully Transcended, introductory genetic testing indicates a positive predisposition. You’ll find her employee identification and relevant genetic overview attached. Consider this a letter of recommendation. J.R. Regional Manager, Spinal Division 28

[odos-bucket]

So I was reading @andillwriteyouatragedy​‘s incredible Brand New Day where Bruce and Clark adopt a young Dick Grayson together, and was thinking about a sort of companion story where they take in Jason together too. Using that story as a rough reference, I’m gonna say they’ve been together for a decade or so here. Dick is somewhere in his late teens. I’m figuring Clark probably offers to tag along on Bruce’s annual trip to crime alley every year. Bruce always politely declines. It’s basically become a part of the day’s bleak tradition. Clark is surprised when for once his offer is accepted. Later on, if pressed, neither of them would be able to pinpoint what was different about that night that made Bruce decide that it might be okay to have some company for once. Clark probably feels weird about it at first. Even though he’d asked Bruce if he wanted company, and Bruce had said yes, which he never would have unless he’d absolutely meant it (and Clark knows that). It still feels a little like he’s intruding on something private, even sacred. Then of course they get there, and there’s nothing going on. Superman’s senses don’t pick up the slightest hint of disruption anywhere in the neighborhood. Maybe they start patrolling around it anyways, maybe they just wander for a couple of blocks. Sooner or later they overhear someone talking about how it’s this night every year that Batman comes calling. Local criminals have picked up on the fact that if they just keep their heads down for this one specific night they can pretty much avoid him. Bruce is all grumbly about it, and immediately goes into ~strategy mode~ like, “Okay, I’ll have to start coming here on different days, on an irregular schedule.” He immediately opens up a dozen different tabs in his brain with calendars, and crime statistics, and is thinking a mile a minute, because that’s what he does. He’s kind of agitated about needing to change something that’s been a ritual for so long (because Batman has OCD, fight me) and he’s annoyed at himself for being bothered by it. Absolutely none of this sudden inner turmoil is detectable in his expression or body language. But Clark knows Bruce, knows how he reacts to things, and that there’s no way he’s not annoyed right now. He says, “Sounds like tonight will be a bust if we stay here,” then when Bruce grunts in response, continues, “We could go back to the manor. Watch a movie.” Then after a pause. “Or we could patrol somewhere else.” A moment passes. When Bruce says, “Okay,” Clark isn’t sure which suggestion he’s agreeing to, but they start back towards the car. It’s not a long walk, but they aren’t moving particularly quickly. By the time they get back to the batmobile it only has one wheel.

Clark frowns as he walks closer, before being stopped in his tracks by a surprising sound. It’s a sound that he recognizes immediately, that he hears all too infrequently. Bruce is laughing. Clark’s mouth quirks into a half smile. He takes a few steps forward, thinking about just picking the whole thing up and flying it back home. Then from a few paces ahead he hears Bruce’s low, gravelly Batman voice say, “Hi there.” Once he’s tuned in to the idea of another presence nearby, it becomes obvious to his advanced senses that someone is lurking behind the car. “Shit,” a small voice says. Bruce takes a few steps closer. “Planning on finishing the job?” He gestures to their remaining wheel. Clark shifts until he can get the kid partially in his sight without the aid of x-ray vision. He’s small, and looks to be somewhere in his pre-teens. “I got no idea what you’re talking about,” he says quickly. “Oh really?” Bruce asks. The boy glares at him. “Nice tire iron,” Bruce continues. “Comes in handy.” “I bet it does.” No sooner than the words are out of Bruce’s mouth, the tool is colliding with his shin. The boy shoots out from behind the car, and down a nearby street. Clark starts toward Bruce, who quickly gestures for him to go after the kid instead. He catches up with him in less than a second. When his hand falls onto the kid’s shoulder he freezes, muscles tightening throughout his body, and heart rate speeding up rapidly. The fear response is so sudden and extreme that Clark finds himself pulling away as if he’s been burned. The anxiety around being feared is something he’s mostly left in his past, but there’s a deep rooted insecurity within him that it still prods at. The kid stumbles when he starts to run again, and by then Bruce has caught up. They hang back, but trail after the boy at a distance, until they reach a condemned building a few blocks away. “Should we go in?” Clark asks. “Probably where my tires are,” Bruce says, before climbing through an uncovered doorway. It isn’t hard to find him again. There aren’t too many heartbeats in the area to distinguish between. When Bruce opens the door to the dilapidated room, the boy’s pulse rate jumps through the roof. Nothing changes externally about him though, and Clark wonders whether or not Bruce can tell that he’s afraid of them. There’s the slightest vibration to his words when he speaks. “Okay, take your stupid tires already. I’m sorry, all right? Just leave me alone!” Bruce isn’t looking at his tires. He’s looking around the room, no doubt noticing the same things that Clark has, mold, water damage, a broken window. The place is freezing. Then in the corner there’s a cardboard box with some pasta and canned goods in it, a small stack of books, and a mattress on the floor. “Do you… live here?” Bruce asks. “Yeah. What of it?” Bruce takes a few more steps into the room. “Where are your parents, son?” Clark asks. “Mom’s dead. I dunno where Dad is; don’t really care, if I’m being honest. Now take your stuff and go already!” He’s holding the iron up again, wielding it in a manner that’s clearly meant to be threatening. Bruce plucks it out of his hands with relative ease, inspects it, then turns it around and hands it back. “Move your thumb up like this, and you’ll have a sturdier grip. And don’t stand with your legs so far apart, it’ll put you off balance.” He sighs. “What’s your name?” “… Jason.” He grabs the tire iron back, shuffling to adjust his grip and footing, keeping his stance defensive. Bruce looks around the place again. “You can’t stay here, Jason.” “Oh yeah? Says who? I can take care of myself! Been doing it for long enough.” Bruce glances up at Clark, who can see the wheels turning in his head, before looking back at Jason. “I’d really like the wheels of my car back,” he says carefully, then hurries to continue before Jason can interject. “Can I make you a deal? We’ll buy you dinner if you reattach the batmobile’s tires?”

There’s a fast food place a couple of blocks away that’s open 24 hours. Jason agrees to accompany them, but walks a few yards behind. The employees at the place aren’t at all phased by the appearance of the two vigilantes. Bruce inspects a suspicious stain on one of the walls, while Jason and Clark look at the menu posted above the counter. They order- Bruce gets two of what Jason asks for- then go outside to eat. Bruce is lost in thought as they exit the restaurant, wondering what it would take to bring free food trucks to the area. Jason’s halfway done with his meal by the time they sit down on the sidewalk. “Do you go to school around here?” Bruce asks, wanting to put together a fuller picture of the boy’s situation. Jason gets a distant look in his eyes in response to the question. He finishes chewing slowly, swallows, then shakes his head, clearing his throat before replying. “No. Not for a long time now.” He shrugs. “I got all I needed to out of it.” “You had some pretty advanced reading material back at your place for someone who didn’t finish middle school.” Bruce recalled seeing The Odyssey amongst his few possessions, as well as a couple of Shakespeare plays. Jason shrugs again. “Reading’s not that hard.” “Some people find it very difficult,” Clark says. “Some people are stupid.” Bruce cuts in before Clark can start on the gentle reprimand he can see him preparing. “Ever think that maybe you’re just smart?” Jason gives him a curious look, like that really wasn’t a possibility that he had considered before, then takes another bite, and stares off thoughtfully. “So, Homer,” Bruce prompts. Jason nods. “It’s a fun story. Odi-seuss is a dick though.” Bruce resists both the compulsion to correct his pronunciation of ‘Odysseus’, and Alfred’s voice in the back of his head urging him to tell the kid not to swear. “What makes you say that?” He asks instead. Jason looks at him like he’s an idiot. “Gee, I don’t know, maybe all the pillaging, and murdering he does throughout the entire book.” “Poem,” Bruce corrects. “What?” “The Odyssey is a poem.” “Wait, really?” Bruce hums an affirmative. “Huh… cool. But the point still stands.” “I’m inclined to agree with you. Have you ever read The Scarlet Pimpernel?” Jason shakes his head. “It’s been a personal favorite for a long time,” says Bruce. Clark shoots him an amused grin. “I’ll keep an eye out for anyone throwing out a copy,” Jason says. Bruce frowns. “You have a library around here.” The remark earns him an unamused snort. “It’s a Gotham library; people don’t go there to read books, they go there to buy, sell and/or ingest drugs, and they tend not to be too happy with anybody who’s lingering around while they’re doing it.” Bruce feels a pang, not for the first time that night. “Jason,” he starts, before realizing he isn’t sure what to say. Jason keeps angled to watch him expectantly as he rises to deposit his napkins and bag in a nearby trashcan. “We’d like to help you,” Clark says. “Yeah,” Jason scoffs. “Right. Just how do you plan on doing that? Because I’ve heard that before. I’ve done the whole foster care thing already, and I’m not about to go through it again.” “No,” Bruce is quick to agree. “But there are residential schools in the city. We could help you to get enrolled in one.” Jason seems taken aback by the offer. “…Why?” He asks slowly. “Well for one, because kids should be in school. You’d be provided with room and board for the duration of your time there, which would leave you with less to worry about.” He reaches out to pass Jason the second takeout bag. He’s still lingering at a distance from them. “At least think about it?” “No. I mean, like, why?” Bruce’s eyebrow raises, tugging at the material of his cowl. “What’s in this for you?” Jason continues. “Why do you even care?” “It’s our job,” Clark says. “You’re job is to beat up bad guys.” Clark smiles when Jason mimes punching someone, before saying, “Our job is to help people.” Jason purses his lips. “Don’t boarding schools cost money?” “Most of them offer scholarships,” Bruce says. “I have a few friends who are deans. I could make the necessary introductions to ensure you a place at one of their institutions.“ Jason’s arms are crossed high over his chest, and his expression is set like he’s deep in thought. “I don’t want to end up stuck somewhere where someone else is the boss of me.” “How about you at least come with us to check a couple of these places out,” Bruce suggests. “Just see how you feel about them. No commitment.” Jason’s nose scrunches up. “Where exactly are these places?” He asks. “It varies,” Bruce says. “All within the city.” They watch the boy chew on the inside of his lip for a moment. “Just to see,” he says eventually. Bruce nods. “I’m not getting into a car with you,” Jason adds. “We can take the bus,” Clark offers. Jason raises an eyebrow at that, and his mouth quirks almost into a smile. “Batman and Superman are gonna ride on Gotham’s shitty public transit?” “Why not?” Clark asks. “… Okay,” Jason says, still plainly unconvinced. “Let’s meet back here,” Bruce suggests. “Tomorrow?” Jason takes a minute, but eventually starts to nod. “Sure,” he says. “Why not.” They part ways after Clark disposes of his empty bag. The heroes return to their car.

While they’re driving back Clark says, “I know that look.” Bruce pauses to take stock of his own expression, and makes sure to neutralize anything on his face that might be out of the ordinary. Clark continues, unbothered by the lack of response. “It’s your ‘I’m already deeply emotionally invested in this kid’ look.” Bruce hums noncommittally. “I don’t think I’m going to be able to sleep tonight,” Clark adds. Bruce doesn’t either, but that’s par for the course at this point.

Part Two

[tumblingdowntheway2019]

Sleepless Nights, Part One (1).

Heelloooo my beautiful pps, how are we all today? Back again with another Head-Canon. 💪😎💕

So this one is when Donna is adopted by Lady Dimitriscu as a new daughter. This is based on the wonderful @charlottefairchildbranwell's story based on a couple of my Head-Canons. Go check check her out, charlottefairchildbranwell wrote some amazing and entertaining stories for them! Here is a link to one of them.

WARNING: BELOW THE CUT, THIS POST WILL CONTAIN TRIGGERS, MENTIONS OF DEPRESSION/PTSD/PANIC ATTACKS/GORE, CHILD TRAUMA, TRAUMATIC EVENTS, ETC.

I MAY NOT BE GOOD AT WRITING THESE THINGS, BUT EVEN THEN IT'S BETTER TO WARN YOU.

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!

With that said, let's begin. Sorry in advance.

😭🙏

LADY DIMITRISCU'S P.O.V.

It had been over a year since Donna started living in Castle Dimitrescu. A full year since Mother Miranda's reign had come to an end.

Things have been going so well for the Doll Maker. She gained more confidence, can hold a conversation with her family and even the Winters' Family without the aid of Angie anymore.

The Lady of the Castle however, began noticing something strange happening with Donna lately. It was small things, but they became more noticeable as of late.

Donna has been more sluggish in her movements, making small and silly mistakes in her everyday tasks and had been spotted dozing off whilst in the middle of tasks or activities.

Lady Dimitrescu tried to ask many times if she was ok, but Donna has been dodging the questions. Her daughters and Angie noted that she was unable to sleep a full night the past few days, but hasn't explained why.

The fact that Angie doesn't have that usual strong mental connection to her closest friend is worrying. But Angie had mentioned at the beginning that these happen occasionally and it will pass soon enough.

DONNA'S P.O.V

It's happening again, she knew it was too good to be true. The nightmares are back with a vengeance.

Donna deliberately severed most of her connection with Angie as to not draw attention to herself. She hates it.

Those nightmares, no, memories? She can't tell now. They are just too real to tell.

The Doll Maker doesn't know what triggered this, but she didn't want to worry her family.

She tried to act normal in order to to fend off any suspicion, but she was just so tired. Mistakes over simple tasks have been more noticeable.

Naps are too and far between during the day. The Bat Trio had been trying to cheer her up, Donna's been doing her best to keep them happy. It was a good distraction for a while.

Unfortunately, the nightmares had been making sure that Donna didn't forget in the waking world.

LADY DIMITRISCU'S P.O.V

Lady Dimitriscu had been keeping a closer eye on her daughter. Made sure to be close by should anything happen.

She observed that Donna has been flinching at random shadows or reflections, dozing off with book in hand, nearly dropping it as she jerked herself up and shaking her head.

Something's wrong, but Donna won't speak about it and won't be forced to.

It had been like any other night, Angie decided to join in on a sleepover with the Bat Trio in the Dungeons.

They wanted to tell scary stories and those particular dungeons was always warm enough for them to stay down there.

It had been in the middle of the night, The Lady had been reading one of the many books, ones that she had read many times before.

She was about to turn the oil lantern off when the sound of breaking glass caused her hand to freeze just inches from the dial.

Sharpening her sense, Alcina close her eyes to allow her to focus more on her hearing.

Quiet hitches of breathing was heard.

DONNA'S P.O.V

The Doll Maker woke with a start, it hasn't even been an hour yet. She couldn't even hold onto Angie as she allowed the Bride Doll to go hang out with Bela, Cassandra and Daniela.

It felt all too real. It started off pleasant enough. Donna was in House Beneviento again, opening the door revealed her mother in a rocking chair, knitting.

Donna approached her, hesitant to reach out to the unaware woman.

A call of another girl caught their attention. They look up to see a teenage girl, who was the spitting image of a younger Donna.

"Bernadette?" She quietly says.

Bernadette comes skipping down, unaware of her younger sister's presence as she skips down the stairs and through Donna, as if she were made of mist.

Donna turns to see Bernadette skip off to meet her friends in the village. Their mother calling after her to be sure to return home before the sun begins to set.

In her near forgotten instinct, The Doll Maker silently makes her way to the elevator.

When she entered the elevator, the button was level with her elbow. Something that came in handy as she was always carrying materials that requires both hands to hold.

The elevator reached the basement, she found that everything was bigger than before.

As she walked down the hallway, Donna barely caught her reflection off the glass cabinet. The bottom of the glass was just at eye level.

Upon looking at her reflection, a young girl stared back with her two (2) dark brown eyes. She was a little girl again, maybe no older than seven (7) years old?

She continued to the end of the hallway and through one of the double doors and found her father hunched over one of his latest creations.

Donna knew what was about to happen next, it didn't surprise her any more. She begins to back away as her father slowly sets down his tools.

"Why?" He hoarsely croaked out as dripping sounds were heard. "Why did you do this to us?"

Donna tried to push against the shut door with all her might, but her small frame barely made it budge.

She looked over her shoulder, gasping and began to shake as her father's bloated corpse stood up slowly, movements strongly resembling a puppet being pulled by their strings.

Small waterfalls were coming through the walls and ceiling as father trudged through the ankle deep water.

With one final charge, Donna finally burst through the door and makes a bee-line toward the elevator. The water rising all around her.

Streams of water burst through the ceiling in many spots. Some appearing with such force in front of her that Donna nearly lost her footing on a few occasions.

Her father close behind in his pursuits as the water appeared to allow him to glide in the rising water.

The water was now at the young girl's knees by the time she reached the elevator.

How did the button get so high up?!

After many frantic attempts, Donna successfully jumps up and up against the elevator's wall to press the button.

The grated door shuts, her father's blue, bloated corpse stared at her with angry bloodshot eyes as he slammed and pulled against the grate.

The water descending and emptying the higher the elevator went. Leaving behind a mostly soaked to the bones Donna.

The elevator dutifully opens on the ground floor, Donna reluctantly steps out. The Doll Maker once again knows what's coming next as she trekked through the hallway.

Opening the door to the Living Room, she found her Mother, standing and looking at the ground with a sharpened out knitting needles in each hand.

Eyes filled with rage look up at her as her mother raises her head, voiceless as her mother's mouth moved. But she heard it so many times before that Donna knew what she was saying.

"Your fault."

"Your fault."

"Your fault."

Barely able to dodge the sudden attack, Donna sprints to the front door. Last obstacle.

Bernadette, now aged twenty-one (21) was now blocking the entrance.

END OF PART ONE (1)

_____________________

Edit: Heyo pps, edited some errors, finished the last point and took away the extra blank ones to helps space it out better. Tags were also added in.

A/N - You guys are gonna laugh, I didn't intend on posting this until later. I accidentally posted it before the last point (Bernadette being at the entrance) was done and no tags. 🤣🤣

But I am glad I did, however. Cause this would have been so much longer and I didn't want to bore you guys with so many points. So a part two (2) will be out later on, either tonight or tomorrow. 🤔 Sorry about that. 🤣

Hope you all enjoyed Part One (1) of 'Sleepless Nights.'

Remember, if you wish to use this or the ideas/H.Cs mentioned above, you are always free to do so under the conditions that you credit back to this and myself. That and to please tag me when you are done because I would love to see how it was able to help you out in your stories/art!!

💪😎💕

Hope you all have a wonderful day/afternoon/evening my lovelies!💪😎💕

Part Two (2) linked here! 💕🥰💕

[leggomylino]

Stray Kids Playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons

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A/n: M.List linked down below! | My very first reaction!!! :D I hope you all enjoy <3

Tag List: @distrikt9​ @hanniiesuckle17 @smolboiseavey (Let me know if you’d like to be added!)

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✧ Bang Chan ⇢ STAY Island ✧

Passport Title ⇢ Crisp Ringleader

Okay family

As our ENFJ king Chan would totally have a island that revolved around the others 

Sure he’d have his own space too

But he’d def be one to put up lots of fun camping space and interactive inventions

A cute little barbecue grill on the beach with a wooden table and log benches 🥺🥺 and a picnic area too

I feel like he’d also go out of his way to breed black roses but that may just be me 😂🤷🏻‍♀️

Black and white flowers everywhere, and maybe some red roses too?

He’d also be a generous donator and frequently visit the others to see if anyone needed help with anything

Just stopping by to check in and drop off some hardwood, or iron, maybe even gold 

...That’s a big maybe on the gold cause we all know that stuff ain’t common and if you want Marshal on your island you better have some handy

In addition to this, I think that the generosity would only go so far and he’d be quite the tease too

Running around left and right ratting the others out during pranks and “borrowing” things from the others

“where’d my recipe for gold armor go???”

🤷🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️ “idk bro I think I saw Minho running off with it?”

For villagers, he’d have a plethora of the animal kingdom on his island

Anyone is welcome

You get what you get and you don’t throw a fit 🥴

He’d def have mentions of Stay on his island too

And the guys, his squad

A Stay flag and Stray Kids written in the sand somewhere

Maybe vice versa

His character would likely be of similar resemblance but I can totally see him playing with the fun hair colors and face paint 

His wardrobe would consist of similar attire too: black, white, caps, hoodies, and chains 

Y’all AC fans know that one punk outfit with the chains across the bodice? He’d own that

His home is a toss up: on one hand it could be very chill and cozy, but on another I’m seeing workout gear in one corner and iron tables and a TV and radio going, maybe (definitely) a music studio setup (similar to Weber’s home but more hardcore LMAO)

All in all, I think Chan would be a chill/causal player that would be happy to help his friends and community while also playing hard ball once in a while just to mess with everyone 😂♥️

♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ 

✧ Lee Minho ⇢ Soodori Island ✧

Passport Title ⇢ Total Genius

Soodori is a combination of Minho’s cats

Your boy Minho couldn’t resist the ingenious idea

He’d pondered for the longest time which of his precious babies was going to be awarded the title of his island; an impossible decision

Then along comes our creative leader, “why don’t you just use all three?”

‼️‼️‼️

Genius!1!1!!1!1 😩✨

On Soodori, you bet all the villagers are cats; if you don’t have pointy ears and a swishing tail, Access Denied 🙅🏻‍♀️

This means you, Han 

Villagers included would consist of Raymond, who may or may not be an island celebrity

And let’s not forget Queen Ankha

But to Minho, all his cat citizens are equally loved and cherished as a valid part of the community

His whole aesthetic would be cats too

That includes a cat cafe

His flag would probably be a paw print 🐾 or his cat’s names, maybe a cute scribbling of their faces

And if you disrespected that, there’d be blood to pay

I can see his character closely resembling him as well, with a little paw print on his cheek? Maybe some whiskers? 

He’d thoroughly enjoy visiting the others islands “if he absolutely had to”

Swipe some goods

And bundle them up to go on the plane out ✈️

For the most part, I see him being more of a hermit on his island that only heads out On Demand

Even then, it’s kind of a toss up: good luck getting him to leave his children behind 

If you’re nice to him, he MIGHT let you come and view the splendor...m a y b e

But you better not touch or take anything 🗿🔥

Shoot, when it came to special visitors, like Redd or K.K., he’d probably try chasing them off

Put those tools to use

There’s more than one way to skin a cat

(Don’t tell him I said that tho 👀💧)

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✧ Seo Changbin ⇢ DARK Island ✧

Passport Title ⇢ Music-Loving Loner

Dark, dark, dark

We all done knew, didn’t we?

Changbin is the KING of darkness

So it goes without saying that his whole island would radiate the stuff, too

It may seem depressing and a little emo at first, but eventually the concept comes off being pretty cool

...In an angsty, Evanescence sort of way

He’d probably be very lost on how to play at first...at first

He’s got Felix and Chan to help him tho, so he’d be breeding black flowers before you know it

Maybe a little gray and navy blue tones to break up the solidarity somewhere

I’m seeing a kind of night sky aesthetic, maybe some astrology furniture???

Look out, Celeste

She’s gonna be running to Big Brother Blathers saying some scary short guy is following her around the woods

Poor Binnie just wants a Starry Sky wall...until he sees how bright it actually is

Then it’s 💯 a fat pass

Binnie would kindly welcome all sorts of villagers while being minorly selective

After all, we can’t break the darkness with some cheery-idol-wannabe villager, or some Judy the anime bear

I can say with utmost certainty at 95% that his whole wardrobe would be black caps and hoodies

Maybe a plain black tee

Some black pants

And 

White or black sneakers 🥴✨

I think he would be pretty intent on building up his island...in particular, collecting all the artifacts and critters for the museum 

He’d work hard but not go crazy or stress about it and still take lots of time to just chill in his deep dark vibes

Maybe get out once in a while to visit Felix and learn a thing or two

Overall, we see through your front, Bin; you may have a dark vibe but you’re really just a small big softie ☺️

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✧ Hwang Hyunjin ⇢ Kkami Island ✧

Passport Title ⇢ Soothing Season

Welcome to Kkami Island, which was almost named something else aesthetically cute like Honeycomb or Applepuff

However, like Minho, Hyun simply couldn’t resist a chance to use his precious baby’s name

On Kkami, life is pretty chill: EXCEPT WHEN ITS SERIOUS 🔥

That’s right folks

This boy may have some vibing days and go at his own pace

But don’t be fooled: he plays to win

Plant those money trees

Enter those QR codes

Carve out those pathways

Where is Blathers we have a donation 😤😤

Hyunjin would be a steady-paced worker bee 🐝 

He’d likely be selective of his villagers and go for cute ones

Possibly top to secondary tier

When it came to games and get togethers, you’d likely find him chasing another member with a net or an axe, in most cases Jisung

“qUiT LEaViNG TrASh oN mY iSLaNd!!1!1!1!” 💢

“DROP THAT DIY!1!1!1!!1”

Let’s see

His whole island aesthetic would be cute and peaceful:

Plants, terrariums, soft sunlight...

There’d be so many flowers!!! Hyunjin would have a whole colorful flower field 🥰🌸

White and wooden furniture in and around the home

An adorable tea and snack time plaza too! And a library!!! 📖✨

Very cozy and sweet ♥️

Though, shoot, if he had the energy, this guy may just build himself a palace... 🏰

Regardless, just look for the boy with the staple headband and likely some face paint to boot

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✧ Han Jisung ⇢ Swag HOT Island ✧

Passport Title ⇢ Trendy Supreme Being 

(Edit: Minho convinced Felix to hack his account and changed this to Untossable Trash)

Ohhh boy

I bet y’all were waiting patiently for this one

Or maybe you jumped right to it

Either way here we go:

Han Jisung would be the king of the trash heap

And by that I mean this guy would save up all his bells and buy himself a crown 👑 where he’d sit atop a throne of garbage

BECAUSE THERE WOULD BE TRASH EVERYWHERE SIS 😩😩

This guy would be yeeting furniture and garbage all over the place

...Okay maybe that was a bit overdramatic 

Maybe not EVERYWHERE...

......

...It’d be pretty messy tho

He’d probs have traps set up too

You step off the plane and get catapulted into the ocean, if that were a thing

You’d have to navigate and hop around discarded junk for sure

He’d have clothes here, a fan there, a...urinal...on the beach???

.........o k a y ._.💧

Han Jisung wouldn’t be all that competitive when it came to gathering every fruit or collecting all the fish

He doesn’t have the patience for that

He needs to run around and be free, letting his mind wander while wrecking havoc for everyone else; which is also Minnie’s job but we’ll get to that later

For villagers, he’d have at least one squirrel or two (Marshal?! :D) but I’m not so sure it’d really matter...all that much?

I’m not sure he’d even want many villagers at all

He’d be spending most of his time crashing other member’s islands and leaving little surprises like a useless DIY they already have or a fake painting he got roped into buying bc he was too lazy to check if it was genuine =_=

Everyone got sick of it pretty quickly but no one like Minho or Hyunjin; he’s permanently banned from those two locations and Jeongin’s considering adding him to the list next

Despite there being so much junk, his house would have an almost decent vibe: lots of instruments and fun gear, along with some random clothes, a lava lamp, and...another urinal 🗿💧

Seriously, someone get this boy a closet and some coaching in organization

Chan and Changbin are working on hiring Minnie but it’s not going too well; for one he charges too much

Maybe you can talk some sense into him...

♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ 

✧ Lee Felix ⇢ YEET Island ✧

Passport Title ⇢ Festive Chum

Okay y’all

Felix

Would be

THE KING

OF ANIMAL CROSSING

THIS BOY WOULD HAVE

ALL THE FRUITS!!! 🍎🍐🍊🍒🍑🥥

ALL THE FLOWERS!!!🌷🌹🌺🌸🌼🌻

I MEAN EVERY COLOR OF EVERY COMBINATION

A COMPLETED MUSEUM ��� 🐜 🐠

I MEAN BEFORE ART WAS ADDED, HE HAD EVERYTHING RARING TO GO

NINTENDO WAS LIKE “wtf?!”

YEAH SIS, HE’S THAT GOOD

Boy would have a five star island all sorted into perfectly measured categories

An amusement park, a picnic area, a freaking ranch probably 🐮

Some awesome neighborhood for his tier one villagers with a YMCA down the street

A fancy one at that

I mean this boy would have it all

Expect a competitive softie that really just wants to have fun but like

He’s gonna win too lmao

He’s got his Nook Miles program all maxed out

When playing with the others, he comes up with really creative solutions when faced with a crisis

That’s because this smart cookie knows the ins and outs of the game

There was one time where he fenced Jisung in like the creepy Easter bunny and left him for ded oop

That was a bad day for Jisung and a hilarious day for everyone else

He felt bad about it but he also wanted that Subway gift card 🤷🏻‍♀️ 

Each day is a new hair color for Felix

Sometimes every few days or a week

He sometimes likes to synchronize it with his current hair color but

Experimenting is also fun

Face paint too! 🌈 He chooses a warpaint print he found on Pinterest, for days when the gang gets together for a game of tag or bug catching contests

Even if he doesn’t win, Felix always makes it into the Top 3

And he has a lot of fun doing so! 😊

He’s just one heck of a gamer is all

And his whole aesthetic shines brighter than the sun T-T ☀️

♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ 

✧ Kim Seungmin ⇢ Seungmin’s Island ✧

Passport Title ⇢ Radiant Boy

Like Felix, Seungmin would be an ace at AC

He wouldn’t get everything right off the bat

But he’d put in a logical tried-and-true effort, and once he got the ropes and found his groove, my oh my

This boy would have it all

Sophistication ✨

Class ✨✨

Flair ✨✨✨

He’s got a plethora of fruit and stylish attire too

And his aesthetic is so simple but chic

He’s got this whole clean and polished vibe

Lots of artwork and creativity

He’s even got traps that look like fancy furniture

Those are mainly for Han Jisung tho

That oughta teach him to quit nosing around and taking his DIYs <_<

One time he tried stealing a few apples for Swag HOT Island

Didn’t go well sis...

He made it to just outside the pier before getting lost in the hedge maze by Cafe Seungmin

After that Seungmin closed him into a corner as punishment and wouldn’t let him out until he dropped the Apple

But Jisung was feeling pretty prideful that day so he ate it instead 🗿💧

Anyway

This guy would def make a character that looks just like him!

Would he try new hair colors and face paint? ...Maybe

It seems like a sorta-Seungmin thing to do

Seungmin would wanna be the best of the best while still staying true to himself, so you’ll likely see tier one and two villagers that he particularly fancies

Fancy you, fancy me 🥳✨💃🏻🎶

He’d also be one to go around admiring the chaos from the background while occasionally becoming the chaos

Kinda like the Cheshire Cat 😅

When challenging the others to an art contest (who could buy the most expensive artifact from Redd without using the internet) he switched some of the other members paintings while they were distracted by a meteor shower

“Look, a shooting star! And another one!”

“Make a wish.”

“How do I do that?!”

“Tilt your camera towards the sky and press A.”

“I’ve got my camera app open and it’s just taking photos???”

“Not you CAMERA camera—“

“Hey! Chan hyung, Minho just stole my star!!!”

“I didn’t see your NAME on it...”

“Don’t fight, you can each have half!”

“That’s not how it works at all...”

...Anyway

It was pretty comical until Changbin had to say something, about the art that is

Then Minnie had to bounce before the angry shovels and nets caught up to him

“Hey!!! Why is my painting on Minho’s side???”

“Why is everyone attacking me???”

“Oh, Hyunjin has my painting...”

“I do not! ...Oh hey I do? Why’d you put it over here?”

“I DIDN’T!”

👀👀👀👀👀👀👀

...

🛫 🏃🏻‍♀️💨

Poor Minnie just wanted to have some fun amongst the confusion 😔

But

When it gets right down to it, you better believe this boy would be an aesthetic and skillful player ✨

♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ 

✧ Yang Jeongin ⇢ Go Away Island ✧

Passport Title ⇢ Mistakingly Caught Son

Go Away Island means just what the title intends: go away :)

Initially, Jeongin was prepared for what he senior members would do

He knew there would be much anticipation to visit the 막내’s island and drive him crazy

Sometimes, he doesn’t mind it

But others he just wants to be left alone and do his own thing

When he started the game, it was one of those days

So he wanted to make the message clear 😤😤

Also, Don’t Bother Me seemed to be too long 🤷🏻‍♀️

Go Away was straight to the point ;D

Anyhoo

On Go Away, you’ll encounter lots of cute characters 💓

Innie has a very cute and true-to-himself aesthetic

He doesn’t understand much of the mechanics but he’s working on it okay?

And he’s getting better every day!

Okay, so like, sometimes he’ll allow Chan to come over and help

Or Felix or maybe Seungmin if he promises to be genuine and behave

But like

The rest of the members are semi-banned

Hyunjin gets a pass if he whines enough

Or he’ll come up with a crafty excuse to come over

“Innie, look! I got peaches on my island! Don’t you want one? They’re cute like you! 😩❣️”

...He could do without that last embarrassing remark but okay sure

He really did want those peaches for his picnic garden 😔✊���

In terms of hair color? We’re on a rotation like Felix

We’re trying lots of hair colors

And a few aesthetic designs, too!

Jeongin is very resourceful when it comes to QR codes, something Felix and Seungmin taught him

He uses them to set flowers and stones pathways everywhere

And an especially prominent one leading to the door 👉🏻🚪 

♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ 

↬ Which island will you be visiting? 🌴✨

♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫ -ˋˏ ༻✿༺ ˎˊ- ♪♫

ღ Stray Kids M.List | M.List ღ

[littlestarofthewest]

God your writing is incredible. Would you consider possibly writing male reader/deputy arthur, maybe featuring a pair of handcuffs or something of the sort?

Thank you for the praise, love! :) I actually squealed back when I first read this request because I have a thing for Arthur with his little star. I hope you don’t mind I made him sheriff instead of a deputy. I kept the handcuffs though :D

Title: Behind Bars | Word Count: 4444 | Rating: Explicit (18+!!!)

Pairing: Arthur Morgan x male reader

Tags: handjob, blowjob, anal sex (what can I say, they’re going to town)

You always love coming to a new town. There's new people, new shops, and new opportunities, and all of it is just up for grabs if you know how to do it.

Tonight, it's too late to do much, so you decide to head for the saloon and get a feeling for the locals. After hitching your horse outside, you walk in as inconspicuous as possible. You only use one of the double doors, barely pushing it, your head drawn low but with most of your face still visible.

Over the years, you learned a thing or two about earning people's trust. Acting like a withered traveler who's only looking for work and a hot meal is often the best way to go. Just like you planned, a few eyes turn your way, but the people immediately lose interest.

You approach the bartender and ask for some drink and food before settling down in a corner. You determine that there might be even a few prospects for some naughty fun later on, once the decent guests go home, and the rest have some drinks in them.

After finishing your meal, you get yourself a beer, trying to decide which guy to hit on when the doors of the saloon open. The newcomer is tall, with broad shoulders, his hat covering his face. On his way to the bar, a few people nod or give him a small wave, so he must be one of the locals.

The stranger heads right for the bar, and as he leans on it, you get a nice look at his backside. His jeans sit tight in all the right places, and his shirt clings to him in a way that makes you think about scratching your nails down his whole back. 

Without even thinking about it, you make your way to the bar, flanking the stranger to get a better look at him. He pushed his hat up, and while he looks a little weathered, you can't deny that you find him attractive. He's got full lips and a sharp cut jaw that's covered with a nice stubble. You surely wouldn't mind rubbing your face against his while doing some other enjoyable things.

Somehow, the other guys you considered before seem out of the question now. You want this one. At first, you try to come up with a line that could start a conversation with him, but then the stranger does you a big favor. He moves away from the bar, coming your way, and you step in his path in precisely the right moment.

You both collide, and out of surprise, the stranger drops his bottle while you cling to the bar to keep upright. "I'm so sorry," you mumble, your eyes drawn to the shards on the floor, "I didn't see you there."

"It's alright," the stranger says in a calm, deep voice, "it's just a beer."

The game you're playing is always risky. Instead of some fun behind the saloon, it's easy to end up with a black eye. It seems you got extra lucky today.

"Let me buy you a new one," you say, looking at the stranger for the first time. "Please?"

"Sure, if you want to."

"Of course, it's my fault after all," you say while waving the bartender over. "Please, join me."

You order a new beer for the stranger, and he accepts it with a nod before leaning against the bar next to you. "You're not from here."

It's not a question, but you still feel like the stranger is fishing for more information.

"No, I just got into town," you say honestly, right before launching into your perfectly crafted lie. "The farm I've been working on for years got sold when the owner died. Since then, I've been traveling around, looking for work."

The stranger takes a big swig of his beer before stepping back and looking you up and down like a horse he'd like to buy at the stables. 

"I know most of the farmers around here. I could ask around if someone needs a hand."

"That would be great," you say with a smile, but it's hard to stay in the role of poor farmhand with the stranger's eyes still on you.

"What are you good at?" the stranger asks. "Gotta sell you somehow, after all."

You know that he's asking because of the work, but the way he looks at you implies so much more. Maybe it's time for you to go on the offensive.

"Lots of things, actually," you say, holding the stranger's gaze. "I'm most handy with a good tool, and I sure know how to ride."

A small smile plays around the stranger's lips, and he holds out his hand to you. "Arthur Callahan."

"Y/N," you say, holding his hand way longer than necessary. Arthur has a warm, firm handshake, and you wouldn't mind having those hands on you.

"Tell you what," Arthur says, "we meet back here tomorrow, and I'll let you know if somebody needs help."

"Thank you so much, that's great."

Arthur nods, taking another swig of his beer before eyeing you up and down again. "Now that business is out of the way, how about we move on to pleasure?"

A tingling feeling rushes all over your body. You had a feeling that Arthur wasn't the type to play around, but it's been a while since you've met someone who cut to the chase like that.

"Pleasure sounds great," you say. "What do you have in mind?"

"We could go out back, and you show me how good you really are with a tool."

You take a sip from your drink before walking past Arthur, your shoulder brushing against his. "Come on then."

By the steps behind you, you can tell that Arthur is following you immediately, and your heart beats faster. You've rarely gotten lucky so quickly, and Arthur surely is a treat compared to your usual partners.

Outside, you walk around the saloon, and Arthur's hand ends up warm on your back. You make it into the nearby trees before he turns you around and you don't waste time either, taking your first taste of Arthur's lips.

It's been a while since you had some fun, and you don't mind Arthur's hands roaming over your body. He's not shy to grab you wherever he wants, and you make good on your promise. Going down on your knees, you open Arthur's pants and pull out his cock, pleased with what you find.

Arthur leans back against the tree with a groan when you take your first taste, licking along his length. With your hand massaging his balls, you suck him into your mouth, your tongue teasing him with little twists. 

At first, Arthur lets you do the work, moaning quietly with his eyes closed, but you can sense his desperation. He puts his hand on the back of your head but makes a little circle with his thumb to reassure you that he won't push you.

Not that he has to. You know you're good with your mouth, and having a guy squirm and moan because of you, gets you harder than anything else. Arthur does a great job with that. Harsh breaths make their way out of him, and when you swallow him down all the way, his fingers scrape along your neck.

"Goddammit, boy," he groans, holding you in place while his hips buck.

His grip isn't so tight that you couldn't escape, but being put in your place like this has you moan around Arthur's cock, your own dick twitching in your pants. Arthur runs his fingers along your neck now, almost soothing, drawing back a little.

"Got something for you," he says, giving you a way to escape.

There have been guys where you picked that option, but right now, you want all of Arthur, so you push forward. You take him deep into your throat, and Arthur curses, his fingers clawing against your skin as he comes. You eagerly swallow, and Arthur leans back against the tree with a deep sigh.

"Alright," he says, looking down at you when you give him free, "you do know how to handle a tool."

"Told you," you say with a grin. 

Arthur puts himself away while you get to your feet, thinking that you're done, but suddenly Arthur pulls you into another kiss. He turns you both around, pushing you against the tree, and his hand finds its way to the bulge in your pants.

"I think I can find some work for you," he says with a grin, and you wish you could talk back, but his touch feels too good.

Arthur takes care of your pants, and seconds later, you're in his tight grip. He's even pushier than before, giving you barely an inch to move while stroking your cock. Usually, you're not much of a pushover, so it's even more intriguing how Arthur handles you.

He leans in close to bite and kiss along your neck, his hand always in motion. It surprises you that he actually takes the time after he already got off. You had a few guys who couldn't get away fast enough once they were done.

Arthur is the complete opposite. He takes his sweet time teasing you, and you feel like he enjoys watching you squirm as much as you do. You moan against his lips, loving that he kisses you at all, and soon, you claw your fingers into his shirt while you roll your hips to get more friction.

Finally, Arthur's done with the teasing. He strokes you with a clear goal in mind, and you don't care to hold back any longer. You let your arousal take over, drifting quickly to the point of no return until you have to lean back against the tree behind you when your hips stutter, and you come in Arthur's hand.

He leans in to kiss you, still carefully petting you until you come down from your high.

"You're pretty handy with a tool yourself," you say, and Arthur chuckles.

"See you tomorrow then," he says before giving you another quick kiss. You feel like he'll definitely have some work for you, one way or the other.

-------

After being with Arthur, you wouldn't have minded a good night's sleep, but a man has to eat, after all, so you find yourself at the back of a huge farmhouse a few hours later. You heard some guys at the saloon talking about the wealthy owners who once again left for the city to meet up with other rich people and congratulate each other on their wealth.

Judging by the house, there's a good chance there might be some money in it for you, maybe also some jewelry to fence. You're about to crack open the back door when something hard digs into your back. A gun.

"I'm sorry, darling," a familiar deep voice says. "I can't let you do this. Turn around."

You do as you're told and find Arthur pointing a gun at you. You're about to offer him a part of the loot when your eyes fall on a shiny little item at his chest. A sheriff's star.

"You in law enforcement?" you ask in surprise. "Who would have thought."

"I'm not surprised you're here," Arthur says. "I've rarely seen someone who had 'thief' written all over them like you did."

That surprises you even more. You've never met any police who suspected you right away. Usually, you pride yourself on looking innocent.

"Technically, I didn't steal anything," you say, making Arthur chuckle.

"Besides my patience," he grunts. "Are you coming along peacefully, or do I need to restrain you?"

You think back to earlier when Arthur held you against the tree, and his behavior makes even more sense. As sheriff, he must be used to giving orders and keeping people in check. You sure wouldn't mind being handled with the same authority now.

"I don't think I'll be going with you," you say, unable to hide a smile. "I guess you have to restrain me."

Arthur sighs and rolls his eyes, but then he pulls out a pair of handcuffs. "You better not try anything. I wouldn't want to shoot someone as skilled as you."

You hold out your arms to Arthur with a smile, letting him put on the handcuffs. He pulls you along and helps you up on your horse, holding on to your ass way longer than he'd have to without trying to hide it. With Arthur pulling along your horse, you make it back to the town, and he walks you into one of the jail cells.

Out of the handcuffs, you settle down on the hard bench in the cell while Arthur disappears into another room. Taking a deep breath, you consider your options. Arthur's not the type to be messed with, so talking yourself out of this won't work. 

The same goes for brute force. You're pretty good in a fight, but Arthur's a mountain of a man, holstering two weapons he's probably well versed in using. You can't see yourself overpowering him.

Not that you necessarily have to. Although Arthur has brought you in, you don't think that he's going to give you much trouble over a tiny robbery. He'll probably let you rot in the cell for a bit before giving you a stern talking to and sending you on your way. 

Arthur comes back with a bottle of whiskey and settles down on a creaky chair, putting his feet up on his desk. He takes a swig from the bottle before pulling down his hat over his face, crossing his arms, and ready to settle down for a nap.

You should probably do the same, but instead, you watch Arthur. He has the sleeves of his shirt rolled up, and your eyes follow the veins that run along Arthur's arms. You can't help but wonder what it would be like if he held you down or lifted you up.

The way he sits there is too inviting. You imagine walking over to him and pushing down his long legs so you could crawl on his lap and steal the hat before kissing him, not to mention taking a little ride.

With a sigh and tightening pants, you head to the end of your cell, leaning against the bars. "So, you just gonna sit there, huh?"

Arthur pushes up his hat, watching you for a moment. "Please tell me you're not one of the chatty ones who beg for a gag."

"I can be quite loud," you say with a smile, "and I am good at begging. Unless you keep me quiet. I like that, too."

"Just sit your ass down and take your punishment like a man," Arthur growls.

"Oh, I'd love to take it from you," you say, and when Arthur rolls his eyes, you grab the bars of the cell. "Come on, we both know you can't leave while you have a prisoner, and I'm not going to shut up until you make me. Might as well continue where we left off, have some fun."

Arthur's eyes travel over your body, and heat takes hold of you. You just took a shot in the dark, but he's actually considering your words. After a moment, he walks over to you, handing you the whiskey. You look at him while you drink, your lips tightly wrapped around the bottle. 

"Just to be clear, you're not getting out," Arthur says. "We can have some fun, but it's no payment for your release. I don't do that."

Of course, you wouldn't mind getting out of here, but you understand what he means. You're not interested in offering sexual favors for your freedom, either. 

"Just some fun," you say, handing back the bottle, "and then I'll sit here and repent."

Arthur's gaze clearly states that he doesn't believe in your penance, but he still nods. "Turn around."

You have no idea what he's going to do, but that's even more of a thrill. You do as he says and can hear him put the whiskey bottle back onto the desk. After that, there are more sounds, but you're not sure what Arthur's doing.

He comes back to you, always out of your field of vision, and you jump a little when he speaks close to your ear. "Put up your arms."

Again, you follow up immediately, and Arthur holds your hands against the bars of the cell before putting the handcuffs back on you. He hangs them up in a way that makes it impossible for you to bring your arms back down.

"Comfortable?" he asks, and you know he's giving you an out if you're not into that kind of thing.

You've never done something like this before, but then again, you've never met someone like Arthur. A tingling feeling washes in waves all over your body, and you're eager to see what else he has in store for you.

"I'm good," you say, much more confident than you feel.

Starting from your hands, Arthur explores your body. He opens up your shirt and runs his hands all over you with a firm touch. Goosebumps erupt on your skin, and Arthur reaches around you to open your pants.

"Are you ready to do some penance?" he asks, his lips brushing against your ear, his voice sinking deep into your bones and setting you alight from inside.

"God, yes," you say, unable to play it cool. "Please punish me, sheriff."

Arthur leans his head against the back of yours for a moment as his hands push down your pants. His fingers dig into the soft flesh of your ass, and he groans in satisfaction.

You wish you weren't so eager, but you can't help but push back, the cold bars digging into your skin as a starch contrast to Arthur's warm hands. He lets go of you for a moment, before pushing your cheeks apart and his fingers find their way to your hole.

Arthur's coated his fingers with something oily and rubs circles into your skin while his other hand rests flat on your chest. You let yourself enjoy the touch, and Arthur soon pushes a finger into you, opening you up a little. When he's satisfied with how your muscles loosen up for him, he retreats his hands, and a few seconds later, his hot cock is pressing against your entrance.

"Relax, darling," he says, and you only notice now how tense you are, too eager for Arthur to take you.

You let out all the pent up air from your lungs, and Arthur pushes into you, making you moan. You always love to be claimed and spread open, and Arthur fills you up in the best of ways. He bottoms out, pressing himself against you as much as the bars of the cell allow it. 

He trails soft kisses over your neck and rolls his hips, giving you a first taste of what's to come. His hands are back on your body, touching every inch of your skin that he can reach except for your dick, and you have a feeling that's intentional. 

Arthur lets you move instead, waiting for you to show him how rough you want this to go. The problem is that you're way too thirsty for some action, and you move as far away as you can before slamming yourself back against him. Whenever his cock thrusts back into you, you let out eager gasps and moans, begging him to go harder.

"You sure want to redeem yourself," Arthur groans.

"Please, more," you say, reminding him that you're not above begging.

Arthur's hand travels up your chest, his fingers going around your throat. There's no pressure behind it, but the mere touch has you arch your back as much as possible, the muscles in your arms straining from being held up. 

Finally, Arthur moves with more purpose, grinding deep into you until you're completely ready to take all of him. Then he goes faster and harder, his fingers closing a little more around your throat. Your cock twitches, leaking with precome, and you're not sure how much more you can take before begging for release.

Arthur hits deep into your core, moaning, and grunting as he takes his own pleasure from using your body. Every sound of him hits you like a whip, wanting for you to do even better. You push back hard against the bars with a whine, and Arthur finally has some mercy on you.

He reaches around and grabs your dick tight, stroking you with purpose. Your whole body tenses again, pushing against all the restrictions, and Arthur bites along your neck before his lips come to rest against your ear again, his hot breath washing over you.

"You're gonna be a good boy for me now and come on my cock," he growls, his fingers closing even tighter both around your dick and your throat.

There's nothing you can do to hold back. As soon as Arthur thrusts into you again, you cry out, your orgasm shooting through you as if you've been struck by lightning. While your muscles tense around Arthur's cock, your dick pulses in his hand, your come trickling to the ground.

While you still catch your breath, Arthur pulls out of you, but his hand is still on your throat as he rubs his cock between your cheeks. You squeeze them tight to give him more friction, and with a few satisfied groans, Arthur follows you over the edge, painting your ass with his come.

He takes a moment to rest his head against you before letting go of you and reaching up to undo the handcuffs. You move your arms and rub your wrists to get some blood flow back while Arthur tucks himself away.

"That sure was fun," you say, and Arthur chuckles.

"I hope you don't get bruises from those bars," he says, peaking at your ass.

You can't help but grin. "So worth it."

Arthur shakes his head but smiles. He gets the bottle of whiskey again and a bandana from his desk so you can clean yourself up. When you're all dressed, he hands you the bottle, leaning against the bars.

"Can I trust that you behave yourself now?"

"God, yes," you say, and take a drink. "You wore me out, sheriff. I'm gonna sleep like a baby now."

Arthur laughs as he takes the bottle from you. "Good. See you tomorrow then."

He walks over into the other room, probably lying down, and you settle down on the small cot in your cell. It's anything but comfortable, but you're so tired, you're out like a light in seconds.

--------

"Rise and shine, darling," a deep voice says close to your ear, and you roll over, trying to make out your surroundings.

Arthur is standing in front of you, blocking the morning sun coming in through the window behind him.

"Morning," you mumble, rubbing the sleep out of your eyes and sitting up.

"I fear I can't offer you breakfast, but you're free to go," Arthur says before heading out the door and sitting down at his desk.

You take your time getting up and are still stretching your body after following him outside. Arthur's eyes rest on you the whole time, and for the first time in your life, you actually want to stay in jail.

"Are you sure? I did try to rob that fancy place," you say. "Might be tempted to do it again."

A small smile plays around Arthur's lips. "We both know you're not that stupid."

"I might be," you say before walking over to Arthur's desk and leaning against it. Again, you're tempted to crawl into his lap right then and there. "Considering the following punishment."

Arthur studies you for a moment, then he gets up and puts a hand on your back. "Come with me."

You're intrigued, and even when Arthur leads you to the steps to the basement, you go with him without question. Downstairs is another cell, only dimly lit from the light above. When you approach, a man stumbles to the front.

"Are you alright? I heard horrible sounds yesterday," he exclaims, out of breath as if he's been running for miles. "Did he hurt you?"

Arthur can't hold in a chuckle, and when you look at the man in the cell, a weird suspicion arises in your mind.

"Sheriff Callahan?" you ask, and the man's eyes widen.

"Yes, that's me!"

"Come on," Arthur says, patting your back, and you both head back up the stairs, ignoring the sheriff.

"So, I guess you're not the real sheriff," you say, watching Arthur as he leans against his desk. "Care to explain?"

"My gang and I are working a few jobs around here, and since the sheriff was new in town, it seemed a good idea to replace him," Arthur says as if that's the most normal thing to do. "You're free to go, but I have to ask you to move on. We don't want any trouble that could bring some actual law out here."

"Why are you telling me this?"

Arthur shrugs. "You seem like a smart feller. I'm sure you'll know what's best for you to do."

Although Arthur acts all friendly, you know exactly what he's saying. If you dare to make trouble for them, he'll take measures to stop you. Coming from someone who's been holding the sheriff downstairs, you'd have to be pretty stupid not to heed his warning.

The thing is, Arthur's talk about a gang is interesting. You thought for a while that you'd be better off with some backup, and the idea of staying with Arthur is even more tempting.

"Any chance your gang could use another man?" you ask, bringing out your best smile.

Arthur raises a brow at you. "Depends if he's got something good to offer."

"I'm quite handy with a tool, and I can ride."

"I'm interested," Arthur says, his eyes trained at you as intense as yesterday.

You grab him by the collar, push him over to his chair, and finally crawl on top of him. "I could be your deputy, sheriff, and you could teach me a little something about the law. I think I need another lecture on those handcuffs."

Arthur puts a hand on your neck, drawing you in. "Tempting offer," he says before pulling you in for a kiss.

You feel sorry for the things Sheriff Callahan is going to hear now.

[sheerfreesia007]

Fallin’ All In You (Pt. 35)

Title: Fallin’ All In You (Pt. 35)

Pairing: Agent Whiskey x Reader

Author: @sheerfreesia007​​

Words: 1,747

Warnings: Fluff, Arguing, Cursing

Tags: @synystersilenceinblacknwhite​, @two-unbeatable-beaters​, @randomness501​, @sevvysaurus​, @paryl​, @fioccodineveautunnale​

Author Notes: Tequila is a BRO in this one. I love exploring their relationship as well as Whiskey’s and the reader’s. There’s not much Whiskey in this but next part will change that. I wanted to show Ginger’s deviousness and how far the petty can go. Thank you for reading and enjoying!

Gif Credit: @a-gent-galahad​

           You smiled sleepily at your phone as Jack came onto the screen as you connected in a video chat. He was laying in his bed in his apartment in New York and you were still at the lab finishing up on a project that Ginger had assigned to you at the start of this week. Music was playing softly from the radio at your work table and you swayed softly to the beat and Jack laughed softly.

           “You look tired. Are you working in the lab again tonight?” He questioned affectionately and you smiled nodding your head towards your phone.

           “I am. But soon my schedule should clear up. I’ve got this last project to finish for Ginger and then I just have one or two mission reports to fix.” You explained as swayed on your stool. “I can’t wait to have a little more breathing room. Ginger’s been assigning me more and more projects lately.” You divulged to him.

           “Is she still giving you a hard time?” Jack asked with a concerned furrow to his brow.

           “No not really. She’s just super distant and standoffish. Which is fine I’d rather deal with that then her being a jerk.” You confessed shrugging your shoulders. “She’s easier to deal with like this.”

           “Okay, if she starts giving you a hard time though let me know. She shouldn’t be putting more stress on you.” Jack said worried. You nodded your head at him and then grinned widely as Kama Sutra started playing on your radio. You stood up and began dancing around your table and Jack laughed loudly. “I love you, you oddball.”

           “I love you too cowboy. But I gotta get back to work if I wanna finish this before it gets super late.” You said blowing him a kiss. “I’ll send you a text when I get home. Night Jack.”

           “Night darlin’. Get some rest.” He responded before hanging up with you. Turning back to your work table you picked up your soldering tool and began working again.

             “Hey Curaçao, sweetheart. You fell asleep again.” Came a soft voice that made you jolt up from your slumped position against your work table. Blinking your eyes quickly you tried to clear away your blurry vision. Turning you saw another female lab tech standing next to your work table watching you worriedly.

           “Sorry. It was another long night.” You explained softly as you rubbed at your eyes. Just then the doors to the lab opened with a loud whoosh and Ginger walked in with a bright smile on her face. Her eyes instantly focused on you and her smile turned devious.

           “Oh good you’re here. I need to talk to you about another project I’m going to assign to you.” She said smugly as she sneered at you. Your face must’ve pulled into an exasperated expression because Ginger smirked widely at you. Unbeknownst to her Tequila walked into the lab behind her and leaned against the wall watching silently.

           “I can’t Ginger. I haven’t been to bed yet I fell asleep here again. Plus I’ve got a mission coming up in a few weeks. I’ve gotta prepare for that.” You said as you turned back to your work table starting to clean up your work so that you could leave and catch a few hours of sleep.

           “Oh you don’t have to worry about the mission coming up Champ reassigned it to me so you can stay and work in the lab.” Ginger said smugly as she grinned wickedly at you. You turned to her with a furrowed brow and shook your head.

           “First time I’m hearing about it. Besides I’m going to move away from the lab work for a while and focus more on field work. I’ve been working nonstop for the lab for the past month. I’m exhausted.” You said firmly as you crossed your arms over your chest.

           “No you’re going to stay working in the lab.” Ginger sneered out at you as she moved around the lab. “I’m going to be out in the field soon and I need a suitable replacement while I’m gone.”

           “I’m a field agent now Ginger that takes precedence over lab work. Besides I’m not replacement you need to find someone else.” You explained to her shaking your head wearily. You were so exhausted and this argument was only making you more tired.

           “I said you’re my replacement! You will be working in the lab until I see fit understand!?” Ginger shouted suddenly and you, Tequila and the lab tech all stared at her with wide shocked eyes. Your eyes narrowed dangerously suddenly and you stepped up close to her in a threatening manner.

           “You’re not my superior so you can’t force into lab work.” You hissed at her angrily.

           “I will bury you in lab projects so that you don’t see any field work for months.” Ginger snapped angrily at you and your lips pulled up into a sneer at her.

           “Enough!” snapped Tequila from behind Ginger and you watched as she whirled around to stare at him in surprise.

           “Tequila!” she gasped softly and moved closer to him.

           “Save it Ginger I’ve heard enough and Champ is going to want to know that you’ve been sabotaging Cur and keeping her in the lab so that you can take over her missions.” Tequila said darkly as he pulled away from the wall and stalked over to her.

           “No Tequila that’s not what’s going on.” Ginger tried to reason with him and save face.

           “You just admitted to it Ginger so save it. Besides it’s on the cameras I’m sure Champ will be interested to view it.” Tequila said in a disappointed tone. “Ya know I thought you were over all this petty bullshit but obviously not.”

           “Tequila wait.” Ginger began but Tequila shook his head as he pulled his phone out of his pocket.

           “Hey Hennessey can you do me a favor and burn the video footage in the main labs from thirty minutes ago to now onto a flash drive? I need it to show Champ.” Tequila said easily into his phone and you tiredly remembered that Hennessey was head of surveillance in HQ. “Thanks Hen I owe you one.”

           “Tequila that isn’t really necessary.” Ginger tried to reason with him once again.

           “C’mon Cur let’s get you to bed sweetheart you look dog tired.” Tequila said warmly to you as he held his arm out for you. You nodded towards him and smiled as you moved to his side and he wrapped his arm around your shoulder. Tequila led you out of the lab and you snuggled tiredly into his side. You hoped this would curb Ginger’s desire to see you suffer but you doubted it. As you walked back with Tequila to surveillance so he could pick up the flash drive you wondered back to what had changed between you and Ginger. You zoned out as Tequila talked to Hennessey still trying to remember what had changed between the two of you.

           It hit you like a ton of bricks, Jack. It was back when Jack voted no on Ginger again that everything seemed to change between the two of you. You had told Jack that you didn’t agree with his vote and then fought with Ginger when you heard her bad mouthing Jack because of his vote. It saddens you that it’s come to this but you wouldn’t change anything if you had the chance.

           It’s not long before Tequila is done with Hennessey and is leading you back up to his office so that he can get settled there for a small nap before he goes to talk to Champ about Ginger was doing. As you’re laying down on the couch in his office Tequila is pulling a light blanket over you and tucking you in. You smile warmly up at him and sigh.

           “Thanks Tequila.” You say around a wide yawn and Tequila chuckles softly at you.

           “For what Cur?” he asks softly as your eyes drift shut.

           “For everything.” You say sleepily and you quickly fall asleep. Just as Tequila is moving to leave his office your phone begins to ring for a video call and he rushes over to answer it quickly. He sees that it’s Whiskey who’s calling you and quickly swipes the answer button before moving slightly away from you so as not to disturb you.

           “Hey Whiskey.” Tequila says softly as he looks at Whiskey’s face on your phone screen.

           “Tequila, what are you doing answering Curaçao’s phone?” Whiskey asks confused and Tequila flips the camera so that it show you sleeping on his couch.

           “She fell asleep in the lab again. Never made it home. Then Ginger started a fight with her because she tried assigning more lab projects to Cur. Ginger even admitted to burying Cur in lab projects so that she wouldn’t be able to go out into the field so that Ginger could take on her missions.” Tequila explained easily as he watched you sleeping from behind your phone.

           “I told her she was taking on too much. And I can’t believe that Ginger admitted that.” Whiskey says in a downtrodden voice and Tequila nods his head.

           “I know but you know how Cur is. She gives her hundred percent in everything she does. But don’t worry I got it all on video footage and I was just going to bring it to his attention when you called.” Tequila explained as he switched the camera view back to him.

           “Ok keep me posted please. And just do me a favor and make sure she gets some sleep? I know the fighting and arguing is probably going to make her anxiety sky rocket.” Whiskey requested and Tequila nodded smiling at how well Whiskey knew you.

           “Of course. I’ll keep you posted. I gotta go catch Champ now.” Tequila said nodding before hanging up the video call. He set your phone down on the end table next to the couch and smiled softly down at your sleeping form. Just then you let out a soft snore and Tequila grinned wickedly as he pulled out his phone. Pulling up the camera he quickly recorded you snoring in your sleep for a few minutes before stopping it and moving to the door. Chuckling softly to himself he shut the door quietly, knowing that the footage of you snoring would come in handy later on down the line.

[very-salty-popcorn]

Animal Crossing New Horizon

After Watching the Trailer and Gameplay demo I have a few thoughts on what more could be within the game. It’s clear that people have already pointed out small things that caught their eyes, but I have some theories about some of the changes and returning features in New Horizon.

(This is a long read, You were warned)

I was overjoyed when Animal Crossing: New Horizon was showcased. I was surprised when they used a voice-acted cutscene to introduce the game. After all the franchise does not typically use voice acting, which leads me to believe that what was shown in the trailer will not be in the opening scene.

While I would love to think that the opening scene plays on an airplane, I believe that the opening scene will be more along the lines of obtaining your ticket to the island, where you answer a survey where you either (and I hope) pick the features for your character, or are randomly assign features based on your answers. This opening sequence will also be where you pick the name of the island as well as the name of your character.

It’s clear that the game will utilize obtaining resources to construct much of the furniture that you use to decorate your home or island. I enjoy this change because it’ll make the game feel like your actually building up your community instead of just paying off a community service project (though I expect them to return in some fashion, I’ll elaborate a bit later). 

Obtaining DIY recipes from villagers sound like it may be a hassle, but at least you can rest assured that you’ll be able to buy them from the Nooks. Something interesting to point out is the type of things you’ll be able to make. 

Shown in the gameplay, it seems that (in the order shown) players will be able to craft, tools (shovels, fishing rod, etc), furniture, drink containers (or maybe drink concoctions?), hanging furniture (to put on walls), Wallpaper and flooring, and flower crowns (maybe even hats in general?).

The last two icons have me stumped to what they could clearly be, though if I had to guess, the hammer is either a community service project (from New Leaf) or an amenity (from Pocket Camp). The star could also be used for these, though I would guess that it would represent special items. Maybe items that you interact with (Like ballons, poppers, candy, cake, ect).

something I am glad is in the game is the what seems to be the ability to see how much of a certain material you have in your wardrobe to create an item. It seems that in this version of Animal Crossing that it’ll come in handy.

Continuing the discussion about crafting items, it seems that you may not be the only one who can. At least that’s my hunch. in the information shown to us, it seems that not only can villagers have workbenches int their homes, but they can also be seen carrying items. 

It would be great if not only animals gifted your furniture, but also the recipe for it. It would be even better if you could share recipes with other players!

Though an upgrade that villagers are clearly getting is one in style. It seems that new clothing items such as dresses will be able to be sported by your characters. I doubt that your villagers will change their outfits season, but it is a possibility. 

A new fashion sense isn’t the only thing that villagers are getting but it seems new furniture and houses are coming to Animal Crossing.

The style of the homes seems to be going back to the house from Animal Crossing: City Folk. It also seems that door decoration will be available to not only players but also villagers. As for the exterior, I believe that it will be selected by the player themselves. Not only will the player choose what the houses look like, but I also believe we will finally be able to choose the locations of the houses.

In the gameplay, we spot two tents, which aren’t really addressed at all. We also only see two villagers. These two tents can also be seen in the map (in the right bottom corner) during the gameplay demo. At first, I thought these were to be developed shops, but looking at the little sign on the right of the blue tent, it’s clear that these belonging to the villagers. Because these two tents are strangely close together (something that would almost never naturally happen in Animal Crossing: New Leaf) it leads me to believe that players will select where Villagers will live. It also shows that the island will progressively be inhabited (though you may start with 2 villagers). 

As for selecting the exterior of the homes, which lead me to believe this is the fact that we have new home exteriors. Not only do we have the wooden lodge, we also have a more beachy looking home:

The tents and home exterior also show that you’ll not only have to develop the island and build up your own home, but also the home of your villagers. 

Concerning the type of villagers that will come to inhabit your island, I believe that it will be random, though you may be able to select the villagers via amiibo cards (at least I hope, that way I can have a bunch of cute villagers). 

Homes don’t seem to be the only thing that will be in development on the island. I’m assuming that you’ll also be able to develop a central plaza. In the gameplay, we are shown a map, in the center, there is a squared (well rectangle) off area. 

It’s in this area where we can access the community center (Where Nook is) and the message board.

I believe that this area will grow as the island does. Unlocking new shops by either collecting materials or getting bells (or a combination of both). This is will act as a town square, or at the very least, the community center will grow and we’ll see some familiar faces. 

(I also want to point out that on the map, you can see the airplane, and an area in lighter green (lightly to be an area that’s alleviated and cannot be reached unless a staircase or a ladder of some sort is built)).

As for right now, it seems that besides crafting, selling, and buying things there are two other things available to you. 

First, there’s what seems to be an ATM. It’s likely to operate as a place to store your bells, but it may also function as the place to trade in your Nook Miles (if not then that may be the function of Tommy or Timmy, or maybe even Tom Nook). 

(I should mention that I feel like the Nook Miles will fully replace the badges, which sucks cause I like the badges on the player card....)

Then there’s the box, which I believe will act like a lost-and-found. I’m almost certain because the icon of a mitten (an item that is lost by Villager in Animal Crossing: New Horizon) is on the box. 

Timmy and Tommy will sell and buy items, while I think Tom Nook will function to pay off your debt and maybe even help you in developing the homes of your villagers. 

Something that I’m excited for is the return of old functions with new additions. It’s clear from the gameplay that fishing and bug catching will function the same, with the addition of bait (as discussing in the gameplay demo). While we know clams can be used as fish bait, it’s likely that honey may be used to catch bugs (obtained from flowers?).

Something that I’m not too happy about is pockets...from the demo we see a very limited pocket space, which is likely to be remedied with backpacks (or purses) but how we obtain this extra storage is unknown.

Something that is interesting to look at is the Nook Phones. Through the phone, we have access to the Camera, Nook Miles, DIY Recipes, The Map, and calling friends (for local multiplayer).  While there doesn’t seem like a lot, it’s likely that as we continue to play the game, we’ll unlock more apps for the Nook Phone or we’ll have to buy them). 

While the demo displayed the camera feature we saw the emotions the player can use, and it’s likely Dr. Shrunk will return to allow us to react even more.

Here are a few small things I noticed in the trailer besides all of the above, such as:

Fences! (no more planting hedges!)

You can move your mailbox? (or more maybe that’s just how it upgrades?). Also, look at that new exterior!

FINALLY ACTUAL DIRT PATHS (No more depending on QR codes!)

Vaulting?? (I know this isn’t a small thing, but I’m super excited! though I’m certain we’ll eventually be able to unlock bridges!)

Mushrooms! They seem to spawn naturally in the fall! (no more ugly stumps)

Finally, I fully expect certain features (such as furniture or amenities) from Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp to show up in the game, or at least we’ll see some familiar faces from the mobile game.  

Everything that I’ve written is mainly a hypothesis, so I may end up being wrong about a few things. Feel free to message me and tell me what you think or tag what you think! (It’s also likely that I missed a few things, feel free to make your own post! After all, this one seems to be long enough! haha!)

[serenephenix]

... To help you

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3

…To help you

[Fandom]:Voltron: Legendary Defender

[Rating]: Gen/ Gen

[Genre]: Family, Hurt/Comfort, centers around Veronica, Marco & Lance

[Warning]: mention of very protective but ultimately supporting siblings

[Word count]:  4.800

[Status]: completed

Post season 7 – related to this post I made

[Omg help me I’m back on my shit again. After months of having been unable to write I can’t seem to stop. Have fun guys. This is suuuuuuper self-indulgent by the way. Kudos to anyone who makes it to the end.]

[Important PSA after the first comments on Ao3: No bashing the team, be it in the tags or in a reblog. Lance is not a prize to be won by either side]

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

 Once might have counted as nothing more than a fluke. A second time she might play off as a coincidence maybe. By the third time, Veronica had a sinking feeling plaguing her. After the fifth time, she had stopped counting and instead started to consider that this had to be more than a mere “fluke”.

Far be it from her to hold grudges or make hasty decisions, but the more time Veronica spent around team Voltron, the angrier she became almost every instance.

Honestly, the fact that her ire had grown enough to be noticeable even to her family was admirable in itself – there were few people that could pride themselves in having disturbed Veronica’s inner peace so profoundly that she was falling back into bad habits.

“You’re chewing on your pencil.”

She startled, taken aback by Marco’s nonchalance. She cleared her throat and demonstratively put the poor, abused tool down to recline in the uncomfortable chair they had stolen from another room down the hall so that at meals everyone had a chance to sit at the relatively small workbench that served as their table and “office” outside of office.

But the last one only truly concerned Veronica herself.

Marco was idly scrolling through something on a datapad, finger lazily dragging along the surface. Judging by his expression it had to be pictures from before the war had broken out – small glimpses of the past he had managed to take with himself on an even smaller chip he had guarded with his life. It was incredible he had ever thought of taking them with him, much less having stored them there in the first place.

The original chip still hung around his neck, attached to a sturdy necklace and protected by a plastic casing that had seen better days already. A testament to the trials and losses the journey from Cuba had brought with it.

She caught a glimpse of a picture –fairly old, since she caught her nine year old herself in the left-hand corner – and she felt something in her chest tighten as she caught sight of Abuela smiling up from an angle. Such a sweet smile, unsuspecting of all the terrible things that were to come.

There was no way that Marco had not noticed her taking off her glasses to wipe at the corners of her eyes, but he had the grace to not further comment on it.

“I miss her.”

“Me too.”

She wished she could have seen her at least one more time. Once the Galra had arrived she had not managed anything more than to text her family in a group chat, telling them to run and hide.

After communications had been cut by the invaders, there had been many nights where Veronica had lain awake, wondering, worrying, sometimes crying in the privacy of her small bathroom.

So, when she had reunited with them months later after the missions in the tunnels, the joy had blinded her to the terrible truth for a few minutes.

Knowing that her family was mostly safe and unharmed was a blessing, but as her parents sat her down and told her in soft whispers that their Abuela had suffered a stroke or heart attack during their crossing, Veronica could not stop herself from thinking that it was unfair.

One more time. What she wouldn’t give to tell her one more time that she loved her.

But it was too late, and as she rationalized (as much as it hurt), she was so much luckier than many of her friends and comrades. Many of them had no more family to return to outside of this building.

The gurgling and hiss of the faucet had Veronica looking up, watching with a small smile as Marco came back with a glass of water she accepted gladly.

“Thanks.”

Marco shrugged, corner of his mouth twitching upward a little.

He had been the one to try CPR on Abuela when it had happened. Of course he would, seeing how he had been a lifeguard at Varadero beach for a few years now. Still, it had not worked. Veronica hoped that Marco did not guilt himself over it.

Likely sensing she might ask first if he did not intervene, he pointed to her pencil, her gnawing having left clear indents in the smooth plastic: “What’s up with that?”

Veronica took a large gulp of water first, deciding if she should answer honestly.

Her mind was made-up instantly.

“Lance has been considering staying with us.”

Marco blinked at her in clear shock. His flat palm came to slap at his forehead before it started smoothing his hair back.

“Oooooh… so that’s what the whole morning crying was about.”

Veronica nodded. Neither she nor Lance had explained themselves to the rest of their family and so far she had respected that, even if Maria, Luis, Mama and Papa had needled her. They were worried and Veronica understood it all too well, but Lance was the one who needed to decide for himself when to open up about his impending choice. Today though had put a few things into perspective for her and she needed a second opinion for that, and out of all of their other family members, Marco was one of the more discrete ones. He’d know not to blab.

“I personally think he should stay.”

Marco did give her a questioning look at that but waved his hand for her to go on.

“A team should be about respect and trust. And there is nothing against teasing each other or making jokes. Even our MFE fighter pilots tend to do it,” she smiled fondly at that. One might not be able to tell, but those kids were masters of banter in their own right. According to Veronica’s own tally chart Leifsdottir and Kinkade were tied for first place, not by the amount of shots fired but by the accuracy and truthfulness of them. Griffin and Rizavi, even as a united force, stood no chance.

Veronica’s smile vanished though, as she remembered the interactions she had been privy to over the past week, where she had taken over for a communications officer that had fallen ill.

It was probably due to their late night conversation and the endless praise Lance would wax about his teammates, but what Veronica had seen and heard instantly made that cold yet blazing protectiveness resurge.

As she had concluded, team Voltron was indeed made up of wonderful individuals, unique and incredible in their own ways.

When one gave it a bit of thought, having former cadet Keith Kogane work almost seamlessly with a team felt like a fever dream. While Veronica had never personally interacted with the defiant youth back in the day, she had heard complaints from all of the staff forced to deal with him. The calm leader giving instructions over the comms was almost unrecognizable. Captain Shirogane always seemed to swell with quiet pride whenever it was pointed out.

Veronica could understand him all too well – if anyone were to talk that same way about Lance, she would likely not react any differently.

Pidge, or rather Katie Holt, was indeed just as smart as Lance had emphasized. Not that there had been any doubt about it during the briefings and strategy talks leading up to their final stand, the young woman coming up with a multitude of scenarios whenever a new element and detail was added to their plans. Veronica was all too curious about finding out just how she was processing things so quickly even without a computer handy. In regards to snark, she and Rizavi would get along wonderfully.

Hunk was the main reason they had managed to salvage many of their vehicles in the aftermath of the fight. She had yet to taste any of his cooking (which Lance reminded her daily was to die for), but what she could say was that he was a creative engineer. Just the other day, she had listened to him chatter with his friends all the while helping one of their engineering groups restarting an emergency generator for a medical facility. In the end, he and the other engineers had ended up building it from scratch, Hunk throwing in suggestion to get the most out of it. Some of these adjustment sounded downright alien - which they most likely were.

Princess Allura herself was one of the most regal and beautiful women Veronica had ever had the pleasure to meet. Which may be why she was rooting for her brother and, subsequently, liked flustering Lance with comments and remarks regarding Allura’s interest in him. But as much as Allura was a princess, she was also a kind and devoted person, one of the first to rise to coordinate the actions for reconstruction and the last to leave in the evening.

Amazing people in their own rights and yet…

“I do not think staying with team Voltron as it currently is will do Lance a lot of good in the long run.”

She looked at Marco over the rim of her glasses.

Her earnestness must have hit a nerve, since slowly Marco’s surprised expression shifted from disbelief to concern, his brow furrowing and mouth pinched.

“What makes you say that? Lance seems to like them. Can’t be that bad then, can they?”

Veronica let those words settle a little.

No, the members of team Voltron were not bad people, not by a long shot. But just as any other individuals with agency, they had their faults and made mistakes.

Allura, as Veronica had noticed, could be somewhat stubborn if she saw herself in the right.

Hunk could be dismissive of others when under pressure.

Pidge had a tendency to be unrelenting, be it in her very scientific explanations or tasks she had set herself.

Keith seemed to not always think things through entirely, sometimes getting blindsided by details that had not been discussed prior, ultimately tripping him up.

But all of these, in Veronica’s opinion, were excusable.

She needed to take a deep breath, indignation rising inside her like bile. It was not helpful or necessary at the moment. She needed to keep a clear head. Marco’s judgement need not be clouded by her feelings.

“Did you know that when you are in a relationship long enough, you become deaf to certain things being repeatedly said, both parties no longer noticing it even happens?”

Marco gave a cough that soon turned into full-blown laughter.

“Tell me about it. Marta would never shut up about me messing with her nifty system for all of our clothes,” his expression lost a bit of its mirth. Veronica could only guess that he was mentally revisiting the rooms of a house that was probably destroyed like much else on Earth, “After a while, it just became a running gag. Heh, even the kids were getting a laugh out of it.”

“Exactly.”

He started at her sudden interjection, at the harshness in her voice as she gripped the glass she was still holding with a little more force.

She took another deep breath as Marco slowly came closer, taking with him his chair with protesting screeches from chair legs dragging across the floor.

Once sitting, he leaned forward, crossed arms resting on the table’s surface, face grim.

“What’s going on?”

Veronica raised her left hand, elbow still on the table and started massaging her temple with her thumb. The pain when she pressed just the right spot was distracting enough to calm her.

“I’ve been dealing with communications for a while now, to help with coordinating the reconstruction efforts. Ever since Lance told me about wanting to quit, I might have paid more attention to him and his team, however subconsciously,” her lips twitched but there was nothing funny about all of it, “And this past week, since taking over for officer Anatoly, I’ve been in charge of communicating them their tasks. For that, I’m on the comms constantly and I hear everything that’s going on.”

She took off her glasses, putting them in front of her, wiping at her tired eyes. The screens were doing them little good.

Marco was kind enough to wait, even went to refill her glass and Veronica thanked him for it.

“I cannot tell you how many times Lance has been treated as ‘dumb’ in this one week alone.”

Marco’s stared at her open-mouthed, indignation making his shoulders hunch and his brow furrow so deeply that Veronica was almost afraid the resulting wrinkles would be permanent.

His mouth closed with an audible clack that had both of them wincing, but it did obviously not quell Marco’s anger.

“All of them?” He merely asked, and suddenly Veronica was no longer sure this had been such a good idea.

She put a firm hand on his shoulder, felt him tremor slightly under it.

“Not all of them.”

It still did not seem to appease him.

“What about his commanding officer? Shouldn’t he intervene?”

Veronica resisted the urge to suck in her lips, thinking back to all of the instances where Captain Shirogane had indeed intervened when the team’s discussions went too far off topic for them to still be entirely concentrated on their tasks.

Her heart felt heavy.

When words failed her, she merely shook her head.

“Just as I said: you become deaf at some point.”

The chair went crashing down as Marco surged to his feet, stomping towards the door, and it took all of Veronica’s strength and weight to stop him as she latched onto his wrist with both her hands.

He turned on her sharply, his eyes ablaze with fury and Veronica was so, so glad that she was not at the receiving end of that raw fury.

“This solves nothing,” she reminded him, her voice calm while everything inside her was anything but.

Marco tried to unlatch her, but if he thought her training was for nothing then he was sorely mistaken.

“MY BROTHER DID NOT GO TO WAR TO BE CALLED DUMB!”

His voice boomed through the confined space and Veronica was beyond thankful that right now everyone else was still gone, that luckily it was just them here.

Marco gave another shot at throwing her off, but just as with the first time, Veronica stood her ground, digging the heels of her shoes into the floor.

“I agree with you, I do,” she amended, voice growing louder at the last few words as Marco still resisted, “But antagonizing the people he looks up to and loves is not going to help him!”

Because her brother had told her as much. Shortly after their heart-to-heart, Lance had repeatedly come to her when he could not sleep. As far as Veronica could guess, the impending decision was robbing Lance of sleep. As if recurring nightmares he refused talking about were not already doing a fine job of it. On one of those nights, as Lance had heavily leaned into her side with drooping eyes, he had whispered about the time he had spent hunting coins in a mall’s fountain to get Pidge some retro console from Earth. He had fondly whispered of Keith’s cluelessness about simple cheers, mentioned Hunk and Pidge’s reprogrammed Paladude, a gaming session with Coran and their team leader (and Lance still refused to tell her why he had suddenly been crying at that one), or how Allura had helped him train with a cool sword he had yet to show Veronica.

Lance, undoubtedly, loved his team just as much as he loved them. And Veronica did not doubt that if she asked the team, they would likely call Lance their friend. That did not mean however, that they were properly showing their appreciation.

Veronica would be lying if she said that none of their own family had never called Lance a ‘brat’ or a ‘dumbass’ on occasion. Because Lance, for all of his helpfulness and sweetness, could be a pain to be around. Still, at the end of the end of the day and after every sibling squabble, there never had been any doubt that they loved and supported him.

And as she had observed recently, Lance had very much mellowed out and matured during his stay in space.

Which was why she agreed with Marco’s statement but could not allow her very loyal older brother to hunt down any perceived offenders on Lance’s behalf.

Lance did not need added conflict in his life, and Veronica would not forgive herself if she were to become the source of it.

Marco gave a huff but remained still, face turned to the closed door leading to the hall.

Veronica seized her chance.

“I want Lance to be happy. I promised him that I would respect his decision no matter what. And there might be a chance that Lance does want to go back out there. You’ve noticed as well, right?”

The way Lance would sometimes look out at the night sky, tiny dots of light reflected in his eyes as he gazed out with a longing that was far beyond any of their understanding. It was the core of Lance’s conflict.

He had seen space and its wonders, was enticed by it like those old sailors by the sirens’ calls, but just like the legendary Odysseus, her brother was tired and weary just like most of his friends.

And if Veronica had to guess, there was a good amount of loyalty involved in Lance’s indecisiveness.

Loyalty to his friends.

Loyalty to his duty as a defender of the universe.

Loyalty to their family.

Marco was growing less tense under her touch, allowing Veronica to let go with one hand to cover her eyes.

“If Lance wants to go back out there, I will let him,” her voice dropped to almost a whisper, “but I do not want him to be stuck with people that will inevitably bring him down.”

There was pressure building behind her eyes.

“I don’t want to lose him too.”

Barely a minute ago, she had held onto her brother to stop him from leaving, and the next she found herself enveloped in a bone crushing hug.

They held onto each other for a long time, Marco drawing back first as he gave her an apologetic smile.

“Is there any way to fix this mess?”

Veronica had given it some thought over the past few days. The conclusion she had come to was daunting.

“I think the first thing that needs to be done is addressing the issue. At this point, I’m afraid that Lance will try to rationalize it.”

When they had been younger, Lance tended to do that a lot. He might grow angry if someone treated him unfairly, but in the end he would always find a way to explain it away. Usually the common nominator was Lance himself. In an educational environment, it had sometimes saved Lance’s behind, since he’d end up applying himself more for upcoming tests.

But this was not school, and this was not merely tests they were talking about.

Veronica loathed to think what conclusions her might already have or might come to in the future, should a mission go wrong.

Marco gave a groan next to her, knowing all too well what his sister was referring to.

“What’s more is that Lance is not doing himself any favors. I’m talking about dismissing input that is too complex for him and shutting down attempts to simplify it.”

Because she had heard it herself. Usually it was Pidge, sometimes the Altean advisor that Lance would shut down the moment they went to explain a given topic in depth. At this point, it also no longer mattered whether this behavior was the origin or the result of the team’s perception of Lance.

“You called?”

Marco froze at the voice sounding from the door they had not heard opening, and Veronica felt any hope of formulating a plan of attack fly out of the window.

Marco turning around allowed them to look at Lance who stood in the entrance, head cocked to the side and holding out a generic white plastic bag.

Lance’s eyebrow was drawn up, giving both of them a very questioning look.

His expression was enough to tell them he had undoubtedly heard that last part.

This was not how she wanted this conversation to happen, but if they did not tackle this at once it would only lead to misunderstandings.

Marco was ready to stammer his way through a lie, she could practically hear the gears turning frantically inside his skull, and she decided to intervene at once.

“Actually, yes,” she gestured at the table with a placating smile, faltering a little when she noticed the chair still lying on the ground. That detail did not escape Lance’s notice and he frowned all the harder for it.

This was not going as planned.

Lance needed to be as relaxed as possible. She needed a distraction.

“What do you have there?” She asked, glancing at the plastic bag still dangling from Lance’s wrist. He appeared taken aback by her sudden interest, but a genuine, excited smile spread on his face.

“Oh! Yeah, this is from Hunk. I asked him if he could cook something for you guys, since none of you believe me he’s a good cook.”

He was bouncing over to the area where the plastic plates and cutlery were stored and Veronica watched a little helplessly as Lance set the table for the three of them while Marco quietly put the chair back in its place.

He looked so happy, pouring water into an electric kettle while dumping a few spoonful of a powder substituting coffee into three mugs.

She wanted this to last. She wanted for Lance to smile like this more often, to be happy and not worry about leaving people behind.

Once everything was set for the three of them, Lance saying he hoped the others would come soon, he finally wrangled out an inconspicuous hot pink bowl out of the bag. The moment he removed the lid, Veronica could feel her mouth water.

“Are those...,” Marco started, voice almost an awed whisper.

Lance’s grin was almost reaching his ears: “Yep!”

There was no mistaking it. Veronica would recognize one of her favorites from a mile away.

She knew she was gaping in a very undignified way but…

“How?” she breathed, taking one of the looped pastries between her fingers, inspecting it with wonderment.

“Don’t ask me. I have no idea how Hunk still managed to cook half of the stuff we ate on our trip back and still make it look like Earth food,” his expression momentarily turned into a grimace before easing into something less disgusted, “Sometimes you really don’t wanna know though.“

He shuddered a little while Marco was already biting off half of his buñuelo, slapping the table with the flat of his palm.

“This is so good,” he finally said, looking close to tears.

They laughed good-naturedly as Marco reached for a second, when his first one was still held in his other hand.

It looked and smelled a lot like the pastry they had baked back at home on special occasions. Hunk had even taken care of covering it with thin streaks of dark caramel. It was every bit as soft and tasty as it looked when she took her first bite, and she now understood Marco’s sudden outburst.

It was one of the few pieces of home she’d had in a few years.

“It’s really good,” she said, actually sniffling, making Lance laugh again.

“I know.”

They ate in silence, Lance closing the lid once they each had two (“So there is some for the others!” he had reprimanded Marco), and each taking a sip from their coffee.

Marco had been won over, obvious in how he kept pestering Lance with questions.

“Where did your friend even get all of the ingredients? Do they have a secret stash of cassava here on the base?”

“Once again: don’t ask me, ask Hunk. He can tell you.”

That had Veronica looking up, still cleaning her glasses with the hem of her shirt. Under the automated evening lights, Lance looked a little washed out. Now wonder, his day had been longer than hers, even without actually having spent that much of it outside of the base.

Now or never. She put her glasses back on, turning to Lance fully and garnering his attention at once.

“On that same matter, Lance,” and she almost did not say it, not when this would instantly break this small reprieve from their everyday lives, “you get along with your teammates, don’t you?”

For a few tense seconds it looked like she had broken Lance with her question.

His chuckles were filled with confusion and discomfort.

“What are you talking about? Of course we get along, we’re team Voltron after all.”

She could feel Marco’s nervousness as if it were her own. This was not going to be a nice conversation.

“I’m not merely asking about your cohesiveness as a team, I’m asking about your solidarity as a group of friends.”

Lance was already reclining back into his chair, his eyebrows going up as he stared at her in incomprehension, hands bracing against the edge of the table.

“Veronica, I’m really sorry, but I don’t know what you’re trying to get at.”

She was ready to retort, when Marco beat her to it.

“Are you really okay with your friends calling you dumb?”

She could not believe him. Veronica threw him a glare she hoped would melt his head off but Marco just returned hers without any remorse.

Their attention was drawn back to Lance as he waved his hands around.

“Woah, woah, hold on a tick! What’s this about? And what’s up with you anyway!” He addressed Marco directly, irritation palpable in his voice.

“This is not some kind of joke Lance,” Veronica interjected, giving her younger brother a stern look that threw him off, “You know I’ve been listening to you for a while over your channels, and I admit that I… do not entirely approve of what I’ve heard so far.”

It was more than just “not merely approving” but there was no need to rile Lance up further. If he was any bit as protective of team Voltron as he was of them, there would be no getting through to him by accusing them of anything.

Still, Lance’s eyes moved from her to Marco quickly, obviously not understanding or accepting what was happening right now.

Finally, and sadly, he leaned back with his arms crossed. She wanted to hit Marco for his blunder. This was now going to be harder than ever.

“My relationship with my team is great. What do you even mean by the stuff you heard?”

Band-aid it was then. Quick and painful.

“I am not okay with my brother being repeatedly told and treated as an idiot.”

Hurt flashed across Lance’s face at that but what really caught Veronica’s attention was a flicker of recognition in his eyes. So he was not as unaware as he pretended to be.

He swallowed dryly, hunching in on himself, his eyes shielded by his brown locks with how much he’d lowered his head.

His words were so low she almost did not catch them.

“Doesn’t matter.”

She was ready to explode from tension alone at this point.

“It does, Lance. It matters to me and everyone else!”

She had not meant to shout but this was just too much. Both Lance and Marco jerked in their seats at her outburst. The defiance he had previously shown was quickly bleeding out of Lance, as he made himself even smaller. He suddenly looked like he’d aged at least a decade.

Still, he said nothing, not in his defense nor of his friends. Just sat here with them; a tense silence consuming them all.

Marco was careful in pushing his chair away as he got up. Veronica was unsure what he wanted to do, knowing Marco he might either stay or leave to fight this battle another day.

Relief flooded her when instead of going to the door, Marco circled the table and before Lance could even react, had their brother enveloped in a tight hug. It was a little awkward, Marco having bent down his bulk to embrace Lance while the latter’s arms hovered in the air a little uselessly, blinking back at Veronica in confusion.

Marco was not really a man of words, and Veronica not someone who sprung into action easily. But maybe, with their forces combined, they might be able to get through to him.

“Lance,” she said quietly, her calm voice having her brother glance at her with his still bewildered expression, “I know you really love your friends, but that is no excuse for them to walk all over you when they hurt you. Even if they do it unintentionally.”

He was enraptured by her face, not even caring about the tears undoubtedly clouding his vision.

Time to put her cards on the table.

“I would feel better knowing that, if you go back up there again, you do it with people that respect you and your boundaries.”

There was no more holding back the tears. Lance’s entire face crumbled, one of many small sobs bursting out of him as he kept staring at Veronica pleadingly, his arms at once clinging to Marco so tightly he might leave bruises.

Not that Marco minded, Veronica could see Lance’s jacket straining a little with how tightly he was winding his arms around him.

Veronica settled with smiling at them fondly.

One step at a time while the clock kept on ticking.

[social-illuminator]

INSTAGRAM MANAGEMENT AND AUTOMATION TOOLS TO BOOST INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS

There’s no surprise then that Instagram marketing has picked up its pace now, with so many people using it daily. It becomes more imperative than ever to maintain your presence on this platform.

Sure, every business is looking to grow its social presence. This is especially true on Instagram where getting authentic followers is a serious commitment.

And so marketers, brands, and businesses alike turn to Instagram automation tools to speed up the process. However, there’s a huge gulf between legit tools to grow your account versus bots that spam your followers. That’s why, here, we put together this lot of Instagram automation and what makes sense for your brand.

You spend hours planning and creating content for Instagram. For a brief moment after you hit “Share,” all's right with the world. You’re confident you published something great.

Then, radio silence. Or a few likes and comments from your handful of followers. But how do you get more followers on Instagram if not by publishing great content?

There’s no step-by-step guide to boost Instagram followers. But there are best practices that will help you reach a wider audience and win over new followers. 

What is Instagram automation, anyway?

Instagram automation represents the use of specialized software to manage your account, carry out tasks and/or interact with users without a human present. Instagram automation tools can be put into two buckets:

Services such that effectively “take control” of your front-facing interactions with users such as likes and comments

Tools that automate Instagram behind the scenes, taking care of tasks such as publishing, reporting, and analytics.

Top Instagram Automation Tools:

Socinator:

If you are looking for a tool that eases not only managing your Instagram accounts and boost Instagram followers with direct publishing but also other social media accounts, Socinator is your best bet as an Instagram automation tool. P.S. It’s quite cost-effective too!

Pros of Socinator:

Directly publish Instagram posts without any reminders or third-party tools

Get in-depth analytics and reports of your social media performance

Schedule the best time to post on Instagram

Manage your team with its collaboration features

Access all social media conversations in one place

Get easy client management approvals for seamless workflows

Ingramer:

Ingramer is a good Instagram automation tool that allows you to bulk direct messages, auto follow/unfollow people, auto like posts, generate suitable hashtags, schedule posts, and leave comments on your target audience’s posts. They use targeting filters to find the right people for your content so you can build a loyal audience and gain more engagement.

Pros of Ingramer:

You can use the user-friendly dashboard that can be downloaded on your local desktop and customized to suit your niche and industry.

It can conduct an analysis of your account for better promotion on Instagram.

The hashtag generator works well and makes it convenient for the user to find the hashtags needed through a link or a photo.

Kicksta:

Kicksta offers an Instagram growth tool powered by cutting-edge artificial technology that creates meaningful engagement and authentic connections. When you work with this Instagram automation tool, you select either the standard or premium plan and then customize your dashboard to fulfill your account’s specific needs. Within the dashboard, you create account lists of competitors, brands, and influencers whose audiences you would like to target. They encourage clients to continue posting high-quality content for more followers.

Pros of Kicksta:

Unlike other companies, Kicksta doesn’t guarantee several followers because the followers you will gain are from real, authentic accounts and not bots. Their targeting options on the dashboard ensure the accounts being engaged with are genuine.

Another pro that separates Kicksta from the rest is 24/7 customer service. Instagram is an integral part of your marketing strategy, so knowing you have a live chat and email support to reach out to and video courses and FAQ answers to reference is imperative.

Tailwind:

Tailwind is a popular tool for Instagram automation. It also supports Pinterest and Facebook. There are in-built design capabilities for you to create high-quality posts. These designs are optimized as per platform too. There is a personalized drag and drop grid for easy manual scheduling. Tailwind’s Smart Schedule shares your post when your target audience is most active on Instagram, hence boosting your reach and engagement.

Pros of Tailwind:

The hashtag monitoring feature is impressive.

Unsplash integration is quite handy for posting stock images. These can be further edited within the tool itself.

You can also find ready-to-use posts that are ideal for your business.

Smart bio is a promising feature of Tailwind.

Gramto:

Gramto is another Instagram automation tool that lets you schedule posts for multiple Instagram accounts. It also allows saving captions as drafts for later use with auto-like, follow/unfollow, direct message, and comment options. There are also tracking features to gauge the growth rate through Instagram statistics. Features like geotagging, product tagging, and first comment are available as add-on options. It is also integrated with cloud platforms like Google Drive for easy import features and advanced targeting capabilities.

Pros of Gramto:

It provides a hashtag research tool for free with all plans.

Scraping data of the target audience for competitive analysis and lead generation is quite a useful feature.

There is also a free image editing studio platform available for quick touchups.

Conclusion:

Managing a business can be quite cumbersome. From strategizing, providing customer service, handling your clients, taking care of your vendors, there are loads of things to do.

That’s why businesses are now trying to garner the power of social media marketing. After all, nothing else provides an audience ranging in billions. The market is wide open when it comes to social media.

There’s no surprise then that Instagram marketing has picked up its pace now, with so many people using it daily. It becomes more imperative than ever to maintain your presence on this platform.

[ia21136melly]

SUBMISSIONS

The above were my original submission designs, although my work have been ready to submit a few weeks before the extended deadline my gut told me to wait until closer to the deadline in case a spark comes back. I had become exhausted and ‘done’ with the project, riddled with self-doubt and exhaustion I believed this was the best I could produce. My tutor messaged me on Monday the week of the deadline, stating I could still submit my work for feedback. I was not going to bother but decided too anyway and did. In the end I am so glad as I did, my feedback was not what I was expecting and it helped to create a drive which was just what I needed to get past the hump. 

FEED BACK

Prior to a message I received from my tutor reminding us we could submit our work for feedback (something I forgot) I had given up and my work would be “good enough”. I did not think the idea was that spectacular. I was confused by what concept boards were supposed to be (all the examples seemed to be on one page). So I went for that with a storyboard. It was not until I received my feedback that I realized that putting in a little more effort would be worth it, as my idea was not as terrible as I thought it was. I have now left it too late to achieve what I wanted too but I gave it my best shot. I also did not see the message until Wednesday night as I was finishing off other bits of work ready for submission. I found the balancing act a little tricky but persisted. I am aware that I lack the technical skills to do things I wanted to do, using my newly gained 3D skills I went to use Adobe Dimension with full confidence. My previous photography skills came in handy when it came to setting up the lighting. I found it really simple to follow, it was a case of designing the designs. Because I didn’t have time to sketch ideas ahead of time I did it on the spot, which I know is not the best way to work. On Wednesday night I stayed up a little later than normal to get my storyboard drawn out. I hated it but told myself it was better than nothing and I could expand in the morning. (3rd image). I also created a paper ad design which I was also not happy with (4th image).

I decided I would re-do my main concept page and based it off some of my favorite magazine layout style which is usually used more in collage style. That wouldn’t work with the Durex brand so I used it to make quotes around some images I found. I decided I would add a moodboard of the type of feel I was going for. I read to add texture for the design but I honestly had no idea what that meant and no time to discuss with with my tutor. Once again I found finding diverse images difficult, I mostly found white, female’s in wheel chairs. I am aware there are more disabilities than this and the disability community is fed up of being represented by a wheelchair. It is an even bigger issue in the POC (people of colour) community, in which they have even less representation. To get around this I looked for fashion editorials and looked up gay/black figures that was sat down. That way it was easier to pass off as a hidden disability. Even though you are still able to stand up with one. It was a tricky line to balance.  

Unless I was to do an all night and risk not finishing other work adjustments, I ran out of time to make the pop-up shop, so I choose not to place this in. I have a rough design but I wanted to do more to it. (image 5) It was a difficult choice, but I knew deep down to pull it off I needed to be more experienced with 3D modelling than I was. Although the shapes would have been simple, I know myself enough to know that I would have spent additional time trying to make it right. This is something I will be developing over summer as I am wanting to expand a project I have been working on for another module.  I am feeling happier with my outcome. It is better than it was and although it is not where I want it to be, I am working hard to be compassionate towards myself. University has been the first time I have touched any digital tools. And reflecting I have achieved an awful lot in the 2 years of learning, within those 2 years I have not been able to consistently work on each program either as I was usually working on other project. What this experience has been doing is helping me see what skills I need to develop and which areas I enjoy. For example, I have (to my surprise) discovered that I love working with 3D in Maya. I much prefer Illustrator to photoshop. And I am a fan of video edition and creating. As much as I love to look at typography I have a hard time creating it. With this task it really felt like I was needing to wear multiple hats as I was an art director, designer, graphic maker, creator, idea generator and more. All the things I know people typically do working in a team (which is much better, easier and quicker). This experience has also reminded me how important it is for me to be more proactive with getting my work accessed and adjusting quickly to continue the cycle until it is ready or okay to abandon. I achieved this with a different module this semester and as a result I have produced some work I am incredibly proud of. I will be using that experienced paired this the consequences of this one, to help continue to develop my design process for future projects. 

POSTER BACKGROUND REFLECTION

When it came to setting up a backdrop I went to look back at previous Durex posters. It was there that I was reminded about their emoji campaign and that is what inspired me to use the peach and aubergine for the poster. I thought a simple poster with these items in the background could promote all kinds of fun poses for the younger side of the target audience. Especially the ones who are social media users. Many countries have strict laws on advertising condoms, especially when children are involved. By using emojis I am reaching a very particular type of audience who are aware of emojis and able to read them, they are the same group of people most likely to take selfies and share on social media. In terms of tackling the audience in the older range my TV advert was designed with them mostly in mind as these are the ones less likely to use hastags or take selfies to share. They are also the ones more likely to have grown-up during a time when racism, sexism and other forms of oppression was viewed as okay. They are the groups that may be struggling to adjust to a more equal society that we are working towards. By having my advert show a more delicate, human side, followed by the excitement and joy of connection/sex, I hope for the audience to be engaged. This will also help the disability community feel included, understood and represented as they are given a platform to succeed on. For additional inclusion I paired the image up with the same (e.g. peach and peach). I envious couples finding their representation and going up to it in excitement to take a pose. Additional reference is the emojis helps to show body sizes, slim and tall, wide, and short and all in between. Body diversity is another issue I wanted to touch on with this camping but not make it the center, as it is more of a cousin issue to disability. Using the emoji code felt the most diverse way to hit all my target audience group in a safe way. Even though my brief was surrounding disability, it felt important to me to acknowledge inclusion of others as disabilities can impact anyone, regardless of your gender, race, or sexuality.  When it came to decide on a paper advert, I knew I wanted it to be interactive. The first thing that came to mind was making some kind of game with it. That triggered a memory I have at college were I would play exquisite corpse. It did not seem like too much of a stretch to create a page to do this. It would encourage others to communicate together and hopefully people would be interested in what the hashtag is all about. Sharing online is something people love to do and can be a great way to connect to a community. With it being a body related game it fitted in with the tag line of “sex for every body”. Grab people to play with. Tear out this page, fold on the black lines. Then take turns to draw in secret the head, body and legs. Take a snapshot and share on social media at #gotyoucovered.      

[officialraj09-blog]

When I first heard about this I was surprised that even that small details matter. But they do and the negative effect ghost follwors have on your page totally makes sense and is worth taking care of. 👻 - On any analyzing tool out there your account will have it's own engagement rate calculated, which is amount average likes + average comments under your posts divided by the amount of followers you have. 🤓 - The bigger the engagement rate the more your account is being promoted on hahstags, explore page and search bar. Obviously ghost followers are decreasing your engagement rate and limit your account's reach. 📉 - Fortunately it's pretty simple to identify most of them and then get rid of, but it requires you to take care of it regularly. 🧹 - What to do if your page is already big and you're getting hundreds of followers every day? You won't be able to find all of ghosts manually. There comes a handy tool with help, which is one of the tools that an engagement group I'm in offers. 🙌🏻 - It will analyze your followers and reveal you not only those who meet the ghost conditions, but also those who didn't enagage with any of your 10 most recent posts. This way you'll be able to check only the suspicious accounts and get rid of the ghosts quickly.✔️ - The link to the group remains in my BIO till the end of the week. 😇 —————————————————— Follow 👉 @officialraj09 👈 Follow 👉 @officialraj09 👈 Follow 👉 @officialraj09 👈 —————————————————— 🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀 —————————————————— 👥 Tag a friend 🏷️ Save this post for later ⏰ Turn on post notifications #instagramstrategy #instagrammoney #instgramfollowers #instagrambusiness #instagramtips #instagram #instagramgrowth #growingbusiness #growthmindset #growyourownfood #followforfollowback #followers https://www.instagram.com/p/B_ZA5pbAvX3/?igshid=16eztonr4vyca

[impalaanddemons]

Libertatem - Part 1

Summary: A Science Station goes radio silent - when Scotty and his engineering team are sent to reestablish communication, things go south fast and hard.

Wordcount: 1500

A/N: Okay, this is a lot darker then what I’ve written previously. I hope you like it, please let me know :) I will also update this a bitslower, sinceI’m getting married in 4 days.

Warnings: angst, injury, combat

Rain drizzled down on your shoulders - cold and gentle, the kind of rain that didn’t bother you at first but would drench you slowly and treacherously over the course of a few hours. The water had slowly crept through your layers of clothing, first dripping off the water-resistant outer layer - but drop after drop had found it’s way down your neck and into your red uniform until it was heavy with soddeness. After the water had conquered your uniform it had continued to run into your shoes until your feet felt slippery and had lost all feel to them. You longed for the warmth of your quarters and dreamt of fuzzy warm socks. When you had joined starfleet academy you would never have thought that you’d ever long for a pair of fresh dry socks and a mug of hot cocoa like this. You would never have expected to find yourself standing in the dark on an unexplored planet either - it’s lifeless alien rocks stretching out endlessly across you. The small mobile research station was the only spot of light and life in an unfriendly environment. As far as you had caught up on mission papers starfleet scientists were attracted to this Class M planet because of it’s unique structure - breathable atmosphere, water in abundance, but devoid of all life. And right next to the neutral zone. Which was the reason you were standing here, soaking, tired, in the middle of the night with one of your crew mates. You had hoped to chat with him during duty but he had proven taciturn and without much humor, so you’d given up after a couple of failed attempts to strike up conversation with him.

You had only been here for a couple of days - and at that moment you hated every minute of it, the coldness and your wet feet a reminder of your friends who had become pilots or officers. „Ensign Y/L/N, please do the rounds across perimetry.“ you had only seen him once before -somewhere in the first few hours where you had been introduced to everybody - and forgotten that Lieutenants name. He could have done the perimetry check himself, but since you were the freshman you desisted from getting in an argument, but sighed instead and saluted. „Aye, Sir.“

The building was not huge or massive - but big enough for a good half-hour walk with plenty of opportunity to get your boots even muddier and rocks and debris enough to break an ankle for those who walked carelessly. You had just finished half of that round and leant against a rock, when everything went white with a soft boom that resonated in your breast and blinded you. Grapping for your phaser you stumbled forward, fiddling with it’s settings. Agony hit you next - a sharp pain in your left leg, shooting up from the ankle, a feeling as if someone had jabbed a hot iron rod right into your calves. Yelping with pain you doubled over, still blind, phaser falling from your hand and sliding into the dark somewhere beyond your reach. „Shit, Shit. LIEUTENANT!“ you yelled, but nobody answered. Your hands slipped on the mud around you, feverish grabbing for something - anything to hold onto. Nothing, nothing - then a rock. You pulled yourself up, groaning with pain and only half conscious. It was then when you noticed muffled shoutings, harsh voices in a language you didn’t recognize at once. It was hard to think now. Thought seemed to drip away sluggishly and slowly, like honey trickling from a spoon. The voices came closer and you felt yourself slip from your rock, down to the ground again. A second impact, right into your arm, robbed you of consciousness, just as a thought had fought it’s way up to your aware self.  That language. Romulan. Silence and Darkness followed.

One month later

„Enterprise, this is Captain Kirk speaking“, the relatively young voice sounded hollow as it resonated through the ships belly over intercom. Montgomery Scott had to stop tinkering and slid out from under a panel, jerking his head upwards to listen. „We will change course for an urgent mission. Science Station Utara Delta has ceased all contact a month ago. Located on a Class M planet near the neutral zone we must enter the planets orbit and send a reconnaissance team to re establish communication. Due to the proximity to the neutral zone we have to be careful and vigilant.“ he cut general transmissions and Scotty could hear how he changed channel, just by the tone the wiring at one of the panels made. „Mr. Scott, you’re going to accompany a small engineering away team. I’ll meet you in the transporter room in 15 minutes.“

It was not like he had a warp core to tend too, or power structures to control, or general infrastructure requiring his attendance. But away missions had priority, especially this one as it seemed. He grabbed his tool belt and strung it around his hips, gave last orders („Dinnae let this small bar reach 80%, ya hear me lad?“) and told Keenser off for the last time to get off the pipes. Only a few moments later he was in the transporter room, surrounded by red shirts of both engineering and security. They were a small team, he counted 10 straightaway. „Okay, here’s the deal.“ Kirk folded his arms in front of him. „You’ll be transported down 5 at a time, evaluate the situation and reestablish communications as soon as possible. Any sign of trouble and we’re gonna beam you out immediately. Keep in contact at all times.“ The first 5 members of the away team stepped into the transporter room, there phasers in hand. „Secure the perimeter at once. Energize.“, said Kirk and at that they were transported away. Scotty stood there for a second, next to him. „Be careful, Mr. Scott“, Kirk said and the scotsman nodded, showing him a quick smile. „I can be handy if I want ta, Sir.“ „I’m assured of that, Mr. Scott.“ He straightened his uniform and stepped on the platform. A moment later he was transported away.

Smoke. It filled his lungs after the first breath he took on that world. Filled his lungs with the second and he was coughing and gagging by the time he took his third. This was not supposed to happen. It was a Class-M planet - human-sufficient air, drinkable water deposits. The smoke burned in his eyes and tears filled them in a desperate attempt to get rid of the particles clinging to his retina. They were red within seconds. This could not happen. He heard a scream, turned around on his spot and felt panic creep like ice through his veins. His reflexes and his training taught him to duck and run for cover. There was something, a structure - he duck and ran, the smoke following him like a loyal dog. Something buzzed past him, hot, leaving the stench of burnt hair once it had passed and he slid to the ground in reflex, felt rocks rip open the skin of his hands. His fingers felt along his tool belt until they found the familiar shape of his communicator. Another thing buzzed past him and voices yelled. That language, he thought, it sounded familiar. He flipped open the communicator, just as something scorched the side of his chest and he cried out in pain. „Request immediate evacuation.“ he yelled. „Come on, work, ya awful thing, immediate evacuation requested. We’re under attack. Immediate Evacuation.“ He ducked behind a rock, grabbing his side, hissing with pain now. Absolute chaos surrounded him and the flicker of flames and ever present smoke prevented him from deciphering who was friend and foe, who was attacking or defending. „Beam us out, now!“ he hissed into the communicator, as a dark figure appeared in front of him, seemingly out of no where. Realization hit him, but it hit too late, hit him with too much surprise to act upon it. His world went dark and his communicator never answered.

„We’ve lost them, Keptin“, Chekovs voice was hollow, as if transmitted through ship intercomm, but he was right there, at the transporter consoles. „What do you mean, lost? Where are they?“ that was Kirks voice - stressed, his lips pressed together and brow furrowed. „They are.. gone, Zeer. Just gone. No transporter signal, nothing, Keptin.“ „Uhura, please run a scan on all frequencies. Look for .. anything unusual.“ the Captain hailed bridge through intercomm, then turned around to face his vulcan first officer, who was observing the situation. Solid as a rock. „What do you make of this, Spock?“ „This is very hard to determine without further evidence. Our scans returned clean, without any signs of lifeforms. I would advice further scans and reconnaissance from orbit until we decide on our next action.“ Of course Spock was collected, analyzing as always. And right. Right even if his first impulse was to jump into the transporter himself. „Ensign Chekov return to your post at once and run deep scans of the entire system.“ „Aye, aye, keptin.“

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[linaofthemyscira]

Stay The Night Part 2

Request! Part 2

Pairing: Jason Todd x Reader

Word Count: 1441

Prompts: Continuation of the prompts 16. “N-no! Don’t let me go!”

17. “Stay please stay with me…”

Warnings: blood, mean words, much angst, some language

A/N oh man this almost made me cry

“Jason sit still.”

“Well it hurts.”

“It’ll hurt more if you keep moving,” you poured some alcohol on the wound. You had woken up in the middle of the night, approximately an hour and a half after Jason brought you home and collapsed on your recliner. When you found him, he was bleeding all over the chair. So much for that $200 Swedish couch from IKEA.

Now you were cleaning him up, despite the fact that you were still angry with him. It was the right thing to do in your mind. You just hoped Jason wouldn’t get the wrong idea.

“Y/N could you be any less gentle?!” Jason hissed.

“If I were you I wouldn’t yell at the one with the scalpel,” you peered up at him with irritation. You were (coincidentally) a surgeon helper at Gotham City Hospital. Naturally, you had typical surgical tools. You never thought you’d need to actually use them since you were merely an assistant, but hey now they come in handy.

You had already gotten the first bullet out and patched up his left shoulder. Now it was the right. For some reason or another, his right shoulder was much harder to work on. Correction, it was hard to work on Jason in general, considering how he was simply sitting shirtless in your bathtub. (And you and I both know that Jason shirtless is a sight to see.)

“Aaaand, got it,” you said as you pulled out the bullet. Blood began flowing from the wound and it took all of your strength not to yell or throw up. Ironically, you didn’t have the strongest of stomachs, and here you were, studying to be a surgeon. You quickly treated the wound and covered his shoulder with the bandages after cleaning it up.  

Now with two bandages wrapped around his shoulders, he looked like a football player of sorts. You began quietly giggling, old memories from high school resurfacing.

“What’s so funny?” Jason asked.

“Nothing, I just remembered something from high school,” your laughs faltered. Jason internally cursed. He loved your laugh, he could listen to it all day.

“What did you remember?” Jason asked. You knew he was trying to make you forget what had happened between the two of you a few nights prior.

“Remember that time that you wanted to be on the football team? So you could meet cheerleaders?” You reminisced.

“Please don’t remind me,” Jason scoffed.

“You asked. Anyways, I remember you somehow managed to get a football uniform and you looked adorable. It was a bit too big on you, but then again we were sophomores,” you recalled. A small smile appeared on Jason’s lips as he watched you think about that time. Then he realized you called him ‘adorable’.

“I was adorable you say?” He raised an eyebrow.

“We were 15, shut up,” you lightly chuckled. “So do you just wanna sit in my tub or…?”

“Oh, uh no. I would appreciate if you would help me up,” Jason responded.

You helped him up and led him back to your non-blood stained sofa.

“Sorry about your recliner,” Jason weakly pointed to your bloody chair.

“It’s okay. I’m sure IKEA has some sort of couch cleaning service or something,” you sat down next to him.

It stays silent for a few minutes and then Jason breaks the silence.

“Y/N. I think we need to talk,” he turned to you.

“What is there to talk about?” You asked while turning away from him. Your heart still ached from your conversation with him 5 days ago. You certainly had no interest in recreating that feeling.

“My whole…situation,” he touched your arm.

“Well maybe I don’t want to,” you got up from the sofa and moved away from him. He got up as well and followed you onto the terrace.

“Y/N, you can’t just pretend like what happened didn’t happen,” Jason said.

“That’s not what I’m doing! I know you died, and now I know you were resurrected, but that’s not why…why I’m so emotional about this! Why I’m angry!” You steamed.

“Then what’s the matter?!” Jason yelled.

“You’re an idiot! That’s the matter! You come back to life and don’t come back for 5 years?! And then you show up on my terrace and expect me to accept this, and then, this is where it gets really interesting, then you say you love me?! Jason you’re really dreaming if you think for a second that I’m just gonna let you back into my life and it’ll be all sunshine and rainbows after doing what you did. That’s absolute bullshit!” You ranted. Jason was speechless.

“Not only that but do you think that saving me from near death is gonna give you leverage? Brownie points? You’re mistaken, if you believe that,” your voice began cracking. Sure enough, a few seconds later, tears streamed down your face.

“Y/N, I’m sorry, but there’s a reason I couldn’t come back immediately,” Jason said calmly.

“Why?!” You cried.

“When I was revived, I was messed up, I had some problems, I was crazy! I had so much rage and there was no way I was going to come back like that. I didn’t want you to see that. I needed to calm down,” Jason half-lied. He wasn’t about to tell you that he also spent some of that time training with the All-Caste.

However, since you knew Jason very well and remembered his lying tics, you picked up that he wasn’t being completely honest.

“There’s something you’re not telling me,” you squinted.

“I promise I’m telling you the whole truth,” he said.

“Jason if you want me to trust you again, if you want to be back in my life, I suggest you tell the truth. The actual truth,” you crossed your arms.

So he did. He explained everything that happened. His exchange of words with Batman, whom you already discovered was Bruce Wayne when you visited him several times after Jason’s death. His whole Black Mask situation. Everything.

By the end, you weren’t sure how to feel. All you felt was relief. Relief that he was okay (that was a stretch), that he was alive, that he was standing in front of you. You were still semi-angry with him, especially about the fact that he ran a drug ring, which went against your morals, but you believed you could eventually get over it. He was back, and that was all that mattered.

“So…are we good?” He asked. You didn’t say a thing back. You threw your arms around Jason’s neck and hugged him with all of your strength.

Jason hesitantly put his arms around you too.

“I’m just glad you’re alive,” you whispered.

“Me too, Y/N. Me too,” he whispered back. You pulled out of your hug and looked down at his chest, one hand resting gently on it, the other hanging at your side.

“I wasn’t lying when I said I love you,” Jason said quietly. He lifted your chin and for the first time that night, you made full eye contact with each other. You weren’t sure what to say. You quickly looked away from him; it still hurt to look him in the eyes.

“Y/N,” Jason said your name. You weren’t ready for this. You convinced yourself you were but you were wrong.

You turned around to speak but before you could get out a word, Jason planted his lips firmly on yours. You were surprised at first, but you slowly closed your eyes and melted into the kiss.

It felt like an eternity before you pulled away. You wanted more, you craved the feeling he had given you.

“I’ve been wanting to do that since freshman year,” Jason chuckled. Surprised again. He had been in love with you for 6 years? You had no idea.

“Say something, anything, just stop looking at me like that!” Jason said.

“I love you too.” You said simply. Jason was shocked. He hadn’t expected you to repeat the words, not at all.  He expected you to throw him out or yell at him again. But you didn’t.

“You do?” He asked.

“Why do you sound surprised?” You giggled softly.

“I just–I didn’t know you–I wasn’t aware you felt the same way,” he stammered. You laughed out loud.

“I’m not out of your league, and we were best friends for 2 years,” you pointed out.

“Okay yeah but–” Jason started.

“Just kiss me, Jason,” you cut him off.

“I can do that,” he smirked and leaned down to kiss you again.

And with that, your happily ever after began.

ASDFGHJKL okay that was really nice

TAGGING:

@avengerdragoness hope you liked this continuation!

[crimsonrevolt]

Congratulations Brooke you’ve been accepted to Crimson Revolt as Lucius Malfoy!

↳ please refer to our character checklist

From your sample answers on into the para sample -- we got such a strong feeling of Lucius’ voice. It was truly remarkable to see him put to life, and to see you being so unafraid to explore the aspects of his personality that make him a good villain (but also to see you balance that with how family and the war might change him.) We think it’s a truly fascinating road to go on, and we’re so excited to see you explore how the war and the fear that comes with it changes Lucius!

application beneath the cut

OUT OF CHARACTER

INTRODUCTION

Hello, my name is Brooke. I am a 26 year old female who goes by the pronouns she/her. My time zone is US EST.

ACTIVITY

I am a teacher who has just ended the school year so my time is pretty open right now. To be fair I will say 5, but often it will be closer to 7/8 on the days I am sick of lesson planning for the next year.

TRIGGERS

*removed for privacy

HOW DID YOU FIND US?

I searched hp rp in the tags and when browsing around, found yours

WHAT HARRY POTTER CHARACTER DO YOU IDENTIFY WITH MOST?

I’ve always loved Luna. I’ve never been popular and just had a close knit group of friends. She is an oddball but doesn’t care what anyone else thinks. I’ve always admired that and wished for her courage.

ANYTHING ELSE?

Nothing to add.

IN CHARACTER

DESIRED CHARACTER

Lucius Nicholas Malfoy

Lucius-“Light”

Nicholas- “victory of the people”

Malfoy- derived from the French mal foi or mal foy, meaning bad faith or unfaithful (from HP Wiki)

I added the middle name Nicholas because it suited the ideas of the purebloods and the role Lucius played for the death eaters. He was a key part of Voldemort’s team as both a soldier and a spy within the Ministry. He attempted to bring on the harsh light of Voldemort and create a victory for the pure blooded people of the Wizarding world.

FACE CLAIM

Lucius is listed as Sam Clafin and I am fine with keeping it that way.

REASON FOR CHOSEN CHARACTER

Rarely do I see Lucius Malfoy free on these First Wizarding War RPs. Lucius is an interesting character. Ignorant, racist, smug and all the things we love to hate in a character is summed up in his being. Still, later, there are subtle developments that begin to happen to his character. No longer does he rely on brute strength and violence, but fear. For his family, for his cause, for his life? We don’t know. Something we don’t normally consider for a villain is the draw of love and/or fear.

I am interested in playing Lucius because I want to discover when the shift happened. Did it begin before his inevitable son’s birth or was it sudden and sharp as his son drew his first breath?

PREFERRED SHIPS // CHARACTER SEXUALITY // GENDER & PRONOUNS

Lucius is extremely straight. Through his rigid upbringing there is no chance of being anything other than what is “proper” and “right” for a young man of his standing in society. He has never though anything other than marrying a woman one day to further his legacy. To go by anything other than male pronouns is absurd to him.

Love is nothing to him. Sex is for his pleasure and the siring of legitimate children.

Though he marries Narcissa, I like to think of him as having feelings for Andromeda. This is why her inevitable marriage disgusts him so and why he forbids Narcissa from ever speaking to her again.

CREATE ONE (OR MORE!) OF THE FOLLOWING FOR YOUR CHARACTER:

-A MOODBOARD

http://www.gomoodboard.com/boards/2jBrbIHt/share

IN CHARACTER QUESTIONNAIRE

The following section should be looked at like a survey for your character. Answer them in character and feel free to use gifs. Or, if you’d rather, answer them in third person or OOC without gifs. Answers do not have to be extremely lengthy.

♔ If you were able to invent one spell, potion, or charm, what would it do, what would you use it for or how would you use it? Feel free to name it:

Were I to create a spell? Well, it goes without saying what sort I might create. It would a one that easily locates those filthy mud-bloods. It is so easy to lie, as their sort do, about their heritage and claim some sort of false allegiance with those of a higher blood. It would cause those with that disgusting taint to their blood to experience great pain and leak that wretched liquid from their very pores.

With a simple flick of one’s wand and a causal utterance of “sordida sanguine” the effects of the spell would take place. Of course, one might want to have the cleaning spell handy for it would cause a bit of a nasty mess.

♔ You have to venture deep into the Forbidden Forest one night. Pick one other character and one object (muggle or magical), besides your wand, that you’d want with you:

I cannot imagine why I would have the need to enter that forest. There are all sorts of mongrels out there that I have no interest in. However, would that I find myself in the utmost need to enter the Forbidden Forest, I would take with me the Hand of Glory. Now, normally it is a tool to be used by only the lowest scum of society, however, Seeing that its’ light would shine only for me it would be useful. None of those awful creatures would spy me on the darkest night and whomever I am stalking would not be able to spy my approach until my wand was at his very throat.

♔ What kinds of decisions are the most difficult for you to make?

None. I am very forthcoming with my decisions. They are done at my will and at the will of those I respect. I would not hesitate to act on a decision I thought was right and would serve my causes.

♔ What is one thing you would never want said about you?

That I am not a pureblood. Could you imagine the very thought of it?? I a Malfoy and a member of one of the oldest and most pure Houses of the Wizarding world. To even think it would be a sin! I do not associate with those of lesser or tainted blood, so I cannot imagine why someone would think, write, or say it.

WRITING SAMPLE

Lucius glanced up from his writing with daggers in his eyes. The knock at his office door was extremely annoying in its’ persistence. For several minutes now the knocking had continued and Lucius had continued ignoring it. Outside his window, the sun had begun to set in the sky, filling it with shades of red and orange. The ruddy light had begun to fill his office and soon it would be necessary for the candles to be lit by the House Elves. In fact, he mused to himself, the were lucky past due for lighting.

He paused his quill then, and reached for a space piece of parchment. “Reminder: Kick that bloody House Elf and remind to light candle before my office grows dim.” He scrawled in his elegant handwriting. He slid that parchment aside and noted that, for the moment, the knocking had ceased. “Finally.” He muttered to himself as he opened his desk drawer to pull out an elaborate jeweled knife. In the momentary silence, Lucius began to sharpen the feather’s tip with the blade, drinking in the delicious silence. Rap, rap, rap…rap, rap, rap.

Lucius flinched at the sudden onslaught of the knocking. In his surprise the blade slipped, piercing his finger to the bone. Hissing with pain, he reached for his wand. “Episkey” He spat, as the crimson blood he was so proud of poured from his finger. The blinding pain was relieved at once with the utterance of the spell. Glancing down in rage at his blood soaked desk and robes, he muttered a string of non-magical curses before grumbling, “Tergeo.”

The blood vanished as he stood in a huff. Striding to the door he threw it open before him. “Merlin’s beard what is it!” He shouted, before collecting himself in the face of his untimely guest. “Ah, Albus Dumbledore.” He purred, skillful in the way he shifted his tones. Only years of proper training had brought it on. “Do please come in. How can I be of service to you?”