#(if they DO make her nice but capable of kicking ass they often . exaggerate that too anyway

[upsidedowngrass]

amelia suffers from "fandom designated Nice Girl"

[phoenixyfriend]

I’ve been trying to figure out the best obi wan ship. They all have one slightly problematic thing this way or that. I’ve landed on the idea of obi wan and an equal is pretty top tier. But then I saw a picture of Coran from voltron. Coran and Obiwan might be a disaster but also both are dad shaped, both are bad ass, both are ginger, both have an accent. I think it could work. But another part of me is like Coran is just obi and jarjar mashed together. At the very least they hooked up.

Hey I just had restaurant ramen and Starbucks and actually feel like a human being so let's do something unnecessary but funny. I'm taking this as a challenge, anon.

Also IMO Coran has more in common with C3P0 than with JarJar

So obviously, both of these happen in Big Space, but the difference appears to be density. We see about the same complexity of culture and species interactions, but Voltron covers more galaxies. It's vaguely implied that Earth, at least, is the only planet with sapient life in the Milky Way.

I think the way I want to play this out, culturally, is that the Voltron area of the universe covers a much wider, but much more sparsely populated area, while the SW-verse is just the one very densely populated (in part because apparently humans just went Literally Everywhere) galaxy, where they didn't necessarily bother with developing the tech to go to other galaxies (except Rishi, which only sort of counts) because they haven't really even charted out their own yet. It was never contacted by the Voltron side of things because [checks notecards full of excuses] it's really far away from Altea and all that, and the Force shielded the galaxy from Galra interests because Reasons.

All this to say that the two franchises didn't interact until after the Voltron plotline was already over. We'll say it went mostly canon, except Allura survived because uhhhhhhhhhhhhhh fuck that.

We'll say that this is mid-TCW, you know, before Obi-Wan is a bundle of repressed traumas and bad coping mechanisms that's lost almost everyone he's ever loved to the dark side through death or corruption. He's still (mostly) okay! Anakin's not dark (or at least, not as dark as he could be; Obi-Wan doesn't know about the Tuskens), and Ahsoka's still in good standing and most people are alive and--and okay the army is a massive ethical violation he hates with his very soul and he misses Qui-Gon and Anakin's keeping secrets and pulling away from him every day but He's Fine, Guys.

He's Fine.

In comes a ship from not Wild Space, but beyond that. Intergalactic visitors, from the direction of the deeply concerning Force bullshit they felt a few years ago. Translation tech is decent enough on both sides that they get to talking pretty quickly. The explorer is actually a member of the Blade of Marmora, who gets the absolute most basic info (approximately this many inhabited planets, approximately this many trillions of sapients in the recorded galaxy, basic structure of the government for the past however many years, most recent conflict, etc.)

BoM person is like "cool, okay so you guys are really well set-up so I'm just gonna head back and kick this up a few rungs of the coalition ladder because this is way above my paygrade, I'll make sure you get some diplomats who can maybe help out with the whole galactic civil war situation as neutral parties."

The Voltron Coalition does send a diplomat! They, uh, also send Coran, who isn't technically a diplomat, but he's high-level.

The thing is, okay, that Coran is mostly just... passably competent at things. He's a jack of all trades, master of none type. He knows a lot of things, actually, but his practical knowledge in high pressure situations tends to be up in the air. He knows how to fix the Castle Ship and various technologies, but all of that info is ten thousand years out of date. He was a competent fighter at one point but these days his back gives out. He's very knowledgeable regarding intergalactic politics but, again, that information is ten thousand years out of date. He's also a little prone to social gaffs in dicey situations (e.g. the inciting incident in the Voltron Show episode where he misses the single day with clear skies), but puts in so much goddamn effort to make things happen.

In this manner, he's like a warped mirror of what Obi-Wan is and could be.

THAT SAID

Coran is actually really good with teenagers, and specifically with training them.

And Obi-Wan... isn't.

Obi-Wan's snarky and snippy and sassy, and he's decent enough at teaching and he's great at being a jokey friend and all, but he's not necessarily very good at emotions. And unfortunately for Obi-Wan, the teenagers he spends the most time with are Really Full Of Emotions. He tries, bless him, but he's just... he doesn't respond well to emotional conversations at the best of times.

His son-figure saying "You're like a father to me" leads to a response of... radio silence. Guys. That's not the mark of a man who knows how to talk about his feelings with the people he cares about.

In swans Coran with the various other diplomatic envoys of the visiting extragalactic community. The entire situation is really leading to a lull in the war because nobody wants to risk pissing off this clearly well-funded, well-powered third party. As a result, many of the High Generals can interact with the envoys, even if they spend quite a bit of time eyeing the Separatist representatives on the other side of the room, because clearly Everyone Needs A Seat At This Table.

It's a very tense situation.

Obviously, Coran is exactly the weird uncle that goes around telling plausibly-exaggerated stories about Weblums and Yalmors and Balmeras. I'm going to say at least one former Paladin is there, maybe Hunk. Hunk's fun, and also very willing to help Coran make friends and seem Amicable instead of Distant by correcting some of the exaggerations. There's a nice, calm atmosphere in a bubble around Coran and his nonsense, and it's a weird situation but arguably just... you know. It's good. He's good at making people feel safe around him.

Cue the hissed argument between Skywalker and Kenobi. The actual cause of said argument isn't important, just the fact that, in a dark corner where they're less likely to cause a PR issue, Anakin and Obi-Wan are having it out. Anakin's maybe twenty, still a lanky ragebaby, all that fun stuff. Obi-Wan is a the endpoint of every too-young brotherdad. He's thirty-six but feels like he's sixty-three. He's tired, but trying so damn hard to still connect with Anakin and just--just--

Obi-Wan gives himself a few minutes to calm down before following Anakin. He doesn't even remember what they were arguing about, really, but he has to mend the bridge before it frays even more than it already has. If Anakin goes to Palpatine for advice again, he's going to... do something. Obi-Wan isn't sure what, but he just has to fix this.

What he finds is... well, Anakin did end up going to vent to a man of an earlier generation who acts like a slightly eccentric older relative, but it's not Palpatine for once.

The goofy, slightly abrasive but mostly charming, brightly-colored representative of the Voltron Coalition is standing in the little balcony that Anakin's made it to, listening as Obi-Wan's recently-knighted padawan vents. The man nods and makes noises at the appropriate times, and then asks questions that are... maybe a little too accurate.

"You said that you view him as a father, that he raised you after you left your mother."

"Well, yeah, but he doesn't think I'm ready, or--"

"No parent ever does."

"...my mom thought I was ready to become a Jedi."

"I can't speak for your mother," the representative says, "but the princess of my people, Allura... I half-raised that girl from the beginning, and after the destruction of Altea, we were all the other had left. I watched her lead battles and bring life to planets, trying to rebuild a universe out of the ashes of what we'd left behind... I saw the evidence with my own eyes, and I still, every time, I worried for her."

"Why?"

"I worried that she'd be hurt, that she wasn't ready, that she'd make a decision she regretted. Often, she did, and I had to help her back up, and while she's always come back, stronger than before... she is the closest thing I have ever had to a daughter, and I will always worry for her. Every parent does. Do you think, perhaps, that your own Jedi Master, that you consider a father, may worry because he looks at you like a son? That it's not that he doesn't trust you, but that he doesn't trust the world around you?"

Obi-Wan feels his heart in his throat.

The conversation continues in that vein. While Obi-Wan can't say he likes the fact that this stranger is putting words in his mouth, if only as hypotheticals, he can't deny that there's a part of him that relaxes as Anakin does, as every frustrated fresh-knight question gets a measured elderly-steward response that's angled to consider the interpretation that favors Anakin and Obi-Wan in equal measure. Every word encourages Anakin to talk things out and lay boundaries and express his frustrations to Obi-Wan in the plainest words possible.

There's a story in there, more than one. The representative tends to go off on tangents, ones that Anakin sometimes finds interesting and sometimes just resigns himself to. Mostly, though, it goes well, and Obi-Wan... well, he's always been 'a nosy little bastard,' according to quite a few people.

(In his defense, the terms they'd used about Quinlan's 'investigative personality' had been quite a bit stronger.)

He eavesdrops to the end, and Anakin doesn't notice at all. Obi-Wan's not sure if he should try to address Anakin's lack of awareness of the world around him. He's not technically Anakin's master anymore. The comment may be taken as a criticism of his worth and capability, rather than a sincere desire to see his padawan not die.

He approaches the representative instead. He intends to introduce himself. Instead, the first words that tumble out of his mouth are:

"How do you do it?"

The man--older than he looks from a distance, more wrinkles than the bright hair would suggest, but not quite elderly yet--turns and lifts a brow. "Hm?"

"I'm sorry, I'm--" Obi-Wan grimaces. "I'm Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi. The young man you were just talking to is my former padawan, er, my former apprentice. I've been finding it harder and harder to speak with him over the past few years, and it seems that every interaction we have leads to an argument. How do you... manage that? I can't get him to listen to me at all."

"Ah, teenagers," the man sighs.

"He's twenty."

The representative pauses, and turns to him. "Are you the one he says raised him? The father?"

"Well... yes, I suppose that's one way to phrase it," Obi-Wan says, eyes darting to the side. He doesn't know how to explain the whole attachment situation to someone who barely knows what a Jedi is. He has even less of an idea of how to explain his own broken ability to speak of emotion, the parts of his mind that Bant clucks over and attributes to his own complicated relationship with Qui-Gon. "I had custody as his primary guardian from ages nine to nineteen and was the primary individual for handling his schooling, health, and general upbringing."

"That sounds to me like a very convoluted way of saying you were his father in all but name."

Obi-Wan grimaces. "I'm not exactly old enough to be his father, and I wasn't exactly the person he was supposed to learn from; I was the... back-up option."

"It seems he cares for you very much."

"He didn't have much of a choice," Obi-Wan says, with the kind of helpless smile and awkward shrug he's long gotten used to sharing with people when they ask. "And I assure you he'd have been happier with the man that was meant to teach him."

"I'd say that the 'would have' in this situation is much less important than what is," the representative says. Obi-Wan probably should have paid more attention to his name. "I wasn't in a position to define my relation to Allura or her father in the way that truly suited our situation, by... oh, tradition, social norms, public relations, take your pick. I was a very well-regarded official, of course, but I wasn't royalty, not even nobility, and I certainly wasn't wasn't legally or publicly part of the family. But for all the limitations there, I was still able to find ways to tell her and her family what they meant to me, and they in return. Your apprentice cares for you very much, and I'm sure you care back, but I'd hazard quite the guess that you've no idea how to tell him that."

"I... I shouldn't," Obi-Wan says. "I'm fond of him, of course, but I've no wish to smother him, and to simply say it would be undignified. I imagine he'd laugh in my face."

The representative raises one eyebrow and takes a sip of his drink.

"Master Kenobi," he says carefully. "Might I suggest you go find your young man, tell him you love him, and perhaps give him a hug?"

Obi-Wan's face flares red. It's been years since anyone short of Yoda has spoken to him like that.

"I'm not a child," he sniffs, trying to angle enough away that the blush isn't as noticeable. He's damnably prone to such things. "You're not that much older than me."

The man laughs, and Obi-Wan lifts his glass to his lips in a futile attempt to hid the embarrassment a little more. "Oh, not counting the stasis, I've well reached the age of six hundred and twenty-four, my boy!"

Obi-Wan chokes on his drink.

The man laughs a little more, but thumps him on the back until he's breathing normally again.

"Yes, most of the humans I've told have had quite the reaction!" the representative assures him. "But yes, even with the times adjusted to what any given local year is, I am significantly longer-lived than most species."

"No kidding," Obi-Wan manages. He wipes at his mouth with the back of his hand and looks over at the representative. He takes in the wrinkles and bright eyes, and says, "Well, I must say you look very well for a near-human of such an age. I can only name one person in that category that has managed better, and I haven't seen her since I was a child."

"I shall take that as the compliment it's intended to be," the representative says, twisting the edge of his mustache and beaming.

The man is... well, goofy, really, and quite a bit older than Obi-Wan had thought, but he's quite the charmer. Obi-Wan faintly compares him to a few different people in the back of his mind, but nothing quite fits. For all that the man is quite the jokester and--going by some things he'd seen from the corner of his eye in the main party--a master of physical comedy, the representative is actually more competent than he looks, and for all his visible age, not bad to look at. He is also, seemingly, an expert in dealing with teenagers and young adults, something Obi-Wan himself is... decidedly not.

He really should go speak with Anakin.

And there's a war to fight.

He doesn't really have much time, even with the recent lull.

He's in no place to be looking at the clean-shaven jaw and wondering what it would feel like under his lips, or to let himself consider whether this man would be the kind to have an hours-long discussion as to the narrative forms common in other galaxies, and whether they have anything paralleled to those in Obi-Wan's own, or if this man would show the same enthusiasm over teas that he'd shown over the hors d'oeuvres inside.

He should... really go find Anakin.

"I suppose it's time to find my padawan," he says, more to fill the air than anything. "Er... thank you, both for speaking with him, and for speaking with me."

"Not a problem at all, Master Kenobi!" the representative says, and Obi-Wan realizes that there's one last thing he may have... forgotten.

"This is terribly embarrassing, but I don't believe I caught your name?" Obi-Wan says.

"Coran Hieronymus Wimbleton Smythe, at your service!" the man says, with a sweeping bow. "As you can imagine, most simply call me Coran."

"Then I insist you call me Obi-Wan," he says, and before he can stop himself, "Might I bother you with an invitation to a shared tea time? You seem a knowledgeable fellow, and I'd appreciate the chance to... eh, pick your brain, shall we say."

It's not the smoothest come on he's ever put out there, or the most easily interpreted, but... well. Perhaps it's for the best. He's rather often found his tastes going in irresponsible directions, and it'll be much easier to brush this off without diplomatic incident if there's room for Coran to politely ignore the less platonic options.

Obi-Wan hopes he doesn't.

It's very selfish of him, but a dalliance with an older gentleman... well. He does, perhaps, make such irresponsible decisions, even now.

"I do believe I'd enjoy such a thing!" Coran enthuses, grabbing Obi-Wan's hand and shaking it in large, effusive movements.

Oh, this is a terrible idea, Obi-Wan thinks, even as he exchanges comm numbers and says goodbye.

Still.

He likes the idea of having at least a little fun, sedate or less so, while they have some time to themselves.

[hazbincalifornia]

Choice

Chapter 24:  Blitzo goes back to work.

Warnings: As always, mpreg, and an IMP death relating to hanging.

Likes, replies, and reblogs are all appreciated, both here and on ao3!

Ao3 link

“Welcome back, Blitzo!” Millie smiled from her seat atop Loona’s desk as Blitzo threw the door to the office open. “I know it’s only been a couple of days, but I’m sure it-”

“Millz, love you to death, but put a sock in it before I do it for you,” he growled, eyes narrow and fists clenched tighter than a politician’s asshole as he chucked his already-drained iced coffee cup into the trash. Loona shuffled in behind him and dropped on the couch, pointedly focusing on her phone screen.

“Geez, who whizzed in your cereal? Something happen?” Millie blinked, bouncing herself up a bit on her seat to keep at his eye level. “Can we help?”

Moxxie emerged from Blitzo's office, shuffling papers. “We’ve managed the cases so far just fine, but I need you to sign off on-”

“You can sign my-” Blitzo sucked in a deep breath, pinching his forehead before letting it out. “Fine, everything’s fine.”

Moxxie raised an eyebrow. “I take it something went wrong. That, or you’re just sex-hungover. That can happen, you know-”

Millie cut him off with a click of her tongue, and his mouth snapped shut. “Moxxie, we don’t need the honeymoon story, I think somethin’s really wrong. He looks all slumpy, like a willow-weed in the r-”

“Can both of you lay off? I don't need the tag-team act right now.” Blitzo wove around Moxxie and his pile of paperwork to enter his office- the one that Moxxie shouldn't have been gallivanting in and out of. “You two deal with the client, I just really, really want to fucking shoot something, so tell me when the deal’s done, alright?”

Millie sucked in her cheek and Moxxie glanced over to her before his eyes flicked back to Blitzo, whose fingers twitched before he slammed the door in their faces.

_______________________

Three sharp knocks on the door. “Sir? It’s time to go, unless you want us to work by ourselves again. We’re more than capable-”

“No, I’m up, I’m up.” Blitzo scrubbed at his eyes- any attempts to fall asleep at his desk and make up for the complete lack of any kind of rest last night had been thoroughly thwarted by his brain going at a hundred miles an hour. (The coffee wasn’t to blame. Probably. He’d fallen asleep on way more than the piddly single one he’d downed in the past.) Mostly, it had been wanting to throttle Stolas mixed with wanting to throttle himself, and then imagining rapidly escalating scenarios of where he might be able to chuck the kid once they popped out. (Currently, he was at ‘trying to slingshot them up to Heaven just to see what they’d do with it.’ In all likelihood, it’d be crucifix batting practice.)

“It’s one that the client said might be suicidal, but she seemed quite self-important and thought that her boyfriend wouldn’t be able to live without her anyway, so I wouldn’t trust that.” The chair creaked as Blitzo got up, but if it was because it was a couple years old and salvaged from the back of the circus’s dump or because of the deadweight around his gut that had officially turned his shirt into a crop top was anybody’s guess. 

As he entered the main room, Moxxie was rubbing a cloth over the musical note on the side of his gun, and Millie fussed with a length of rope while humming to herself.

“I’unno sugar, the client said he was kinda hefty…”

“We have other options if it breaks, and clients often exaggerate that sort of thing. Besides, it just needs to hold him long enough to snap the neck, or at least asphyxiate him. Then they’ll just assume it broke after he died.”

“I’m just saying, it’s more cleanup.”

“Well, this is the kind of rope they can usually get topside, so I say we- oh, good, you’re here.” Moxxie pointed to the paper piled up on the coffee table. “I already did all the hard bits, I just need your signature.”

“Right, right. Signature. Got it. Then we get to go kill something, right?”

Moxxie glanced over at Millie, and the look they exchanged passed way more information than Blitzo’d ever be able to parse. Must be a marriage thing. Must be nice, too. Being able to know what each other was thinking and shit. Real useful.

“Yeah, hun, then we can go kill something. Nothing like some good ol’ violence to get the blood pumping, right?” Millie smiled as Blitzo dashed off a loopy B on each of the papers. Most of them were bills, a few were paychecks that he’d probably just forgotten in the mess of the past few months since Moxxie would know better than to try and slip extras in since it would destroy the budget anyway, there was one approving the repairs for the fire, right, right, this was why he let Moxxie handle all the boring shit, at least it was easy to just sign the dotted line- there. Done.

Blitzo cracked his knuckles, tail snapping in mid-air. “Right! Let’s go fuck somebody up!”

“There we go!” Millie gave a little laugh, punching his arm as Moxxie picked up the Grimoire and opened to the right page before drawing the circle with his free hand. Loona was still settled on the couch behind him, nursing a sports drink from the fridge and half-watching the three of them, head tilted slightly.

Moxxie nodded to the portal, setting the book down on the desk. “Right behind you, sir.”

____________________

The guy didn’t even fight back when they woke him up and strung him up. What a wuss. Hangings were usually fun since they squirmed and made funny noises while trying to break free if the neck didn't snap when the chair dropped, but it wasn’t nearly bloody enough for Blitzo’s taste today. Oh, sure, he’d clawed at the rope that had manufactured nylon sharp enough to carve out blood from under his nails, but his face was purpling at a rapid rate, so they probably didn’t have to do anything other than let gravity finish the job for them, especially considering his kicks were starting to slow anyway.

“You want to go watch some wrestling death-matches when we get back home? I heard they’re bringing the Big Boar in, he’s some sinner who was a lucador back in life. That’ll get some of that killer instinct out.” Millie gave a playful growl as she rummaged around in the target’s belongings. Blitzo watched her hips waggle for a moment before she made a little ‘hmmph’ at a pin-up cowgirl calendar.

“Hmm… tempting, Millz, tempting.”

“Pride wrestling’s more like good ol’ fashioned blood sport, especially when they get the guys that can regenerate limbs!” She ground her fist into her palm with an intense look. Moxxie rolled his eyes as Blitzo leaned against the wall.

“Pl-ease… sa...ve..” the human wheezed out before Moxxie poked at his stomach, and he coughed up blood directly on the little imp before falling limp. Moxxie grimaced, using the man’s somewhat-sweaty bedsheet nearby to clean himself off.

“Perhaps you could invite his highness? I remember him saying something about-”

“Nope,”  Blitzo snapped out immediately. “Not gonna fuckin’ happen.”

Moxxie raised an eyebrow, dropping the sheets. “It was just a suggestion, sir. Had too much of him over the past few days?”

“You could say that,” Blitzo muttered, a hand resting on his stomach, and Millie's eyes softened.

“Aw, you could have said something. He ride you too hard?”

The fingers curled inwards, claws dragging above the surface and lighting it up red, forcing him away from his own skin. “Something along those lines, yeah. You two can drop this anytime, you know.”

“Well, at least the little one will be out of your hair soon,” Moxxie said. “Just a few more months, then I would imagine it’s just visitations now and then. You said that you’d already discussed things with him about custody, right?”

Blitzo swallowed, the hand raising up from his belly to rub at the back of his neck. “So, er, about that-”

The wood groaned as Moxxie took a step forward. “No. You didn’t.”

“Come on, Moxx, he was drooling over it, how the fuck was I supposed to know he wanted me to-”

Moxxie threw up his hands. “What have I told you? To think about what you’re doing! What do you do? Throw yourself-”

“Oh, you think this is my fault?”

“Of course it’s your fault!” Moxxie folded his arms. “What did I say when you were considering keeping it? That it was going to be a big responsibility! You barely can call Loona civilized and she’s somehow a legal adult, what in the seven rings would you fuck up if you had to raise an actual child?”

“Exactly! I don’t fucking want to!” Blitzo spat out with enough venom to make Moxxie’s fingers tighten on his arms. “That’s the point, I thought this was just going to be for a couple of months and then yeah, maybe getting to see them now and then wouldn't suck the worst ass if they turn out cool, but I’ve got other shit to do! I’m a busy guy, and I’d definitely fuck it-”

“Blitzo…” Millie reached out a hand before curling it into a loose fist in midair. “Hun, I’m sorry.”

“Yes. Thank you, Millie.”

“Although…” She gnawed on her lip for a moment, and he groaned.

“Don’t you start-”

“Why did you adopt Loona then? I’m genuinely wonderin’, that’s all. You love her to bits, why’s this different? If you hadn’t done that I wouldn’t be askin’, but… you like being a dad.”

“I…” He trailed off. There was a scuttering in the wall behind him, like a roach or some other grimy-grody pest, and a chill drilled down the vertebrae of his spine as a shiver ran through his bones. Why was the sweat dripping down his side cold, like condensation on the side of a frozen water bottle? Damned drafty house. “I wanted to be there for somebody, somebody that I chose to be, and that won't-" He cleared his throat, shaking his head to start over. "Anyway, she’s a good kid who's figuring her shit out and I like hanging out with her. I'm glad to be her dad. That's different."

“Why would this be so bad, then?” Millie repeated. 

Blitzo scoffed. “ ‘Cause I got Loona when she was older and I had to go through a buncha bullshit to sign the papers instead of just getting nutted in and having it sprung on me? That was an active effort, and teenagers are basically an entirely different species from babies, I’ve only had to clean up her shit a couple of times-”

“Did not need to know that,” Moxxie muttered.

“-Shut up Moxxie, but anyway, point is, Loonie was already walking and talking and has her own tastes and shit, most babies are just worthless little parasites until they’re, like, ten. I was a fuckin’ miserable little thing to deal with according to literally fucking everybody, so why the fuck would I want to inflict that on myself when I can help somebody that’s already gotten through most of the annoying phase? Plus, her sense of fashion kicks ass. Babies can't pick you out dope outfits." His tail snaked up and tapped his shoulder. "Point to me, excellent reasoning.”

“She’s still your daughter, and you still have to deal with a lot from-” Millie tried to continue, but Blitzo held up a hand.

“Look, it’s just different, okay? The apartment’s crowded enough. I’ll figure this out somehow.”

“...If you’re sure,” Millie said, shifting her weight on the creaky floorboards. “How did the prince take it?”

“Ugh, you really think I want to get deep into his little wah-wah I-thought-you-knew bullshittery?” Blitzo snorted. “I don’t give a shit what he thinks, he should have been upfront about the fact that I was going to be ruining both me and the squirt’s life instead of just being a fuckin’ incubator for cash. End of story.”

There was a nudge from inside of him that was much sharper than usual, and Blitzo’s eyes snapped down.

“Did you just fuckin’ bite me?”

[delicatelyherdreams]

Pragma(tic) 12: He Gets the Visit of His Life

Pairing: Persephone!Bucky Barnes x Hades!Reader

Summary: In a world where the old gods never truly died, you must learn to navigate your way through the ups and downs of immortality. And if living forever wasn’t hard enough, an ancient evil is now threatening to break free after centuries of silence. And as if that still wasn’t hard enough for you, now a pesky and infuriatingly handsome god is trying to wedge his way into your life. Gods, work, love, and conflict—what more could a goddess need? [Hades & Persephone AU]

Word Count: 4350

Warnings: Language

Pragma(tic) Masterlist

Previous 11: She Takes a Stand

Bucky had said that he’d give (y/n) a day at least to get back on her feet in terms of work, but he wasn’t sure exactly how much time she wanted. Was just one enough, or did she need more?

Eight days had passed since he’d left (y/n) at the border and, sappy and cliche as it might be, he missed her. He missed her smile and her laugh and even her sour glares she gave him when he said something stupid (which was often if he was being honest, but he only did it to get those damn glares from her).

He wondered how she was doing without him. Not that she needed him or anything—she was perfectly capable of living on her own—but she had told him she had a lot of work to do and he was curious to see how she was doing. He could only imagine how boring the paperwork was. He’d sat there and watched her do it one day and he nearly fell asleep. He felt so bad for her if that’s what she was stuck doing. Maybe he could rescue her and bring her to the island. Get her some sun. If there was one thing that was good about being in the Mediterranean, it was that it was sunny year-round.

Lying there in the grass under the shade of a tree to shield him from the sweltering sun, Bucky sighed and shut his eyes. He didn’t think it really mattered what (y/n) was doing at that moment and daydreaming about taking her out in the sun wasn’t doing any good.. The fact of the matter was that he missed her and he really wanted to see her. But he had to wait. Delayed gratification always paid out in the end and—

“Hey, Buck!” Sam’s voice called, pulling him from his thoughts. “You’ve got a visitor.”

Bucky groaned, keeping his eyes shut. “Tell my mother I’m sleeping.”

Sam laughed and Bucky felt him sit down beside him. “It’s not your mother. I think you’re going to want to go get them before Steve loses his mind.”

Bucky peeled an eye open and looked over at Sam. “What are you talking about?”

He nodded his head forward. “See for yourself.”

Bucky opened his eyes fully and sat up to look at the clearing. He couldn’t believe his eyes.

Standing in the clearing, talking to Steve, were two women and a large dog. He only just recognized the woman on the left as Peggy, the goddess of magic, but he would’ve known the woman on the right anywhere. 

(y/n) was dressed for a sunny day with a pair of loose black shorts hanging from her hips, a dark grey tank top hugging her torso, and a floppy black hat casting shade on her face. Cerberus stood by her side, nearly attached to her hip, as he sniffed Steve’s hand eagerly. (y/n) had her fingers tangled in his fur as she pet him absently, listening to whatever Steve was saying. A kind smile adorned her lips. When Bucky moved, he drew her attention and those striking eyes of hers landed on him. Her smile only widened when she saw him, and she raised her other hand in greeting.

He could only stare at her, his lips parted in awe. 

He’d never seen her venture out of the Underworld in the daytime and actually have time to appreciate her in the sun. The only time he’d seen her in the Mortal World like this was when she threw him out the first time. She was beautiful then, but it was a scary beautiful—the kind that came from radiating power and “I’ll kick your ass” energy. But now? She was stunning with the gentle glow that came with familiarity and sincerity. The sun kissed her skin, giving her a lively glow that seemed to send color to her flesh. She looked alive, and Bucky’s breath got caught in his throat.

He was on his feet and making long strides over to the quartet before he knew it.

(y/n)’s eyes never left him and her smile only grew brighter as he approached. “I thought you were going to come back later,” she said, her tone taking on a teasing tone. 

A smile to match hers covered Bucky’s face. “Oh, I was, Doll, but I wasn’t sure how much time you’d need to get caught up.” 

“Only a day or two. Eight was far too many.” She chuckled. “But time is irrelevant when you live forever.” She turned her gaze from him and looked back up at Steve. “Your friend here was kind enough to fill us in on all your moping over the past few days. Did you really miss me that much?”

“He did,” Steve confirmed, nudging Bucky with his elbow. 

Bucky hissed a “Hey” at Steve before rolling his eyes. “He’s exaggerating the whole thing. I was not moping.”

“Mhmm.”

He cleared his throat. “Anyways! Why are you guys up here? I’ve never seen you topside and dressed for,” he gestured vaguely, “leisure.”

(y/n) looked down at Cerberus. “Well, we needed a bit of fresh air, and Cerberus wanted to go on a walk, so we figured we’d pop up for a bit and see you. You’ve been going under for so long that I figured it was my turn to come up and see you.”

Bucky’s heart hammered in his chest. She wanted to come and see him. She left her kingdom to come to him. If that wasn’t dedication, he didn’t know what was. He smiled at her and offered her his hand. “Then shall we give your beloved pup a walk?”

She took it without hesitation and nodded. “Yes.” She turned her head back towards her companion. “Pegs?”

“You go on!” the other woman encouraged. “I’ll be here talking with Steve.” She shot a grin at the blond man, eliciting a blush to rise to his cheeks.

(y/n)’s eyebrows rose in acknowledgment, a smirk playing on her lips. “Alright then. Come on, Buck.” She squeezed his hand and pulled him towards the trees that led out of the clearing.

He followed her, tugging her too. “This way,” he coaxed as he led her through the trees. “I know a good path for walking. Mortals rarely travel it.”

“Perfect.” She let him take the lead.

Cerberus trotted just a bit ahead of them, sniffing down at every little leaf he came across. His tail was wagging rapidly at the excitement of new surroundings. Bucky supposed he hadn’t really seen anything living in, well, ever. 

As if thinking the same thing, (y/n) giggled at her dog. “He doesn’t get out much,” she admitted sheepishly. “He’s a busy dog.”

“Oh, I bet.” Bucky hummed and pulled her closer as they emerged from the trees onto the vacant path. “I still can’t believe you came up here.”

“Honestly? Me neither.” She looked down. “But I needed a small break. Things in the Underworld… Well, they’re not looking too hot right now.”

He frowned and ducked his head to see her. “How do you mean?”

Her lips had formed a thin line as she looked ahead. “Kronos’ cage is… It was weakened. Like, so weak he could’ve broken out at any moment.”

Bucky’s brow furrowed. “I thought that you went down every week to—”

“I did. We think that someone might’ve tampered with it. Our leading hypothesis is titans, but everyone’s been accounted for.” She growled under her breath and her hand squeezed his with frustration. “But we’ve quadrupled up on security and have spent countless hours strengthening the cage. Everyone is doing their best. Even my sisters have come down to help. At this rate, it looks like we’ll be back to normal within days and we can put this whole thing behind us as a fluke. But it’s just been so hectic down there and I needed a break.”

“So you came to me?”

“Exactly.” She rubbed small circles on the back of his hand with her thumb. “I feel calm with you, Buck. So when I needed a break to just chill out, the only place that came to my mind was by your side.” She shrugged as if it was no big deal, but the words made Bucky’s heart pound.

He cleared his throat and his eyes darted down to her. He was glad that he could put her at ease, and he thought to himself that he could help her by breaking the tension with a bit of comedic relief. So, with a teasing grin on his face, he asked, “Do you wear anything other than black?”

Her head snapped up to him, and she stared at him. “Pardon?”

He gestured at her outfit. “Screw me, I’m trying to make conversation and lighten the mood. You’re stressed.” He cleared his throat. “Anyways! I only see you in black. Do you wear anything else?” 

A skeptical smile crossed her lips, but she answered him, “Yes. Sometimes I wear greys or reds.”

“So only gloomy colors?”

“I suppose.” Her smile gave way to an amused chuckle.

“What about a nice yellow? I think you could pull off yellow.”

Her chuckle turned into a full roar of laughter. “Yellow! Bucky, the day I wear yellow will be the day I die.”

“So never. After all, gods can’t die.”

She turned to him, a coy smile on her lips. “Now that is where you’re wrong. It’s very rare, but gods can die or be killed.” She paused. “I’ve seen it happen; in fact, I’ve had to kill some myself.” 

“What?” He turned to look at her, his eyes concerned. He’d never heard of this, and it made him anxious and worried for her to know that she had killed a god.

She continued to walk, acting as nonchalant as if she were talking about swatting a fly. “Erebus, the god of deep darkness and shadows was rebelling against us, trying to set my father free. He was a minor god, so he wasn’t a real threat, but he was still guilty of high treason against Olympus. Carol hated to do it, but she had to sentence him to death. Who better to be the official executioner than the goddess of the dead?”

Bucky continued to stare at her, his heart aching for her. He’d never really witnessed death before, but he could only imagine how horrible it was for her. Despite being surrounded by death down in the Underworld, he never could imagine what it was like dealing it out. “Wh-What did you do?”

She glanced at him sideways. “I don’t want to get into the details with you, Buck. You don’t really need to concern yourself with it. Death is… Well, it’s not always pretty. I don’t want to make you worried or ruin your innocence. Death is a nasty business.”

He nodded, but there was still something that bothered him. Every god presided over some dominion or another. Every god controlled some important aspect of life. What happens to their role when they die?

“(y/n)?”

“Hmm?”

“If Erebus is dead, then what happened to his…”

“His charges? The deep darkness and shadows?”

It was like she read his mind. He nodded. 

“I took them. When a god dies, another has to take their role. Sometimes it goes to the god that already presides over something similar, sometimes it goes to the one most willing to take it.” She lifted her hand and instantly wisps of darkness curled around her fingers. “I was already Queen of the Underworld, a place that practically bathed in the deep darkness and shadows, so I took on the role.” She closed her fist and the shadows vanished. 

Bucky couldn’t decide if he was fascinated or terrified by the whole thing. He was impressed that she had more power because of the death, but he was frightened by the prospect that any god could become more powerful by killing another. 

“Don’t worry though. It’s extremely difficult to kill a god. Only one of the Big Three’s weapons or our father’s weapon can do it in one fell swoop, and my sisters and I keep our weapons under lockdown when we aren’t using them. The only other thing I can think of that could kill a god would be a sickness, and even then it would have to be a powerful sickness.” She shrugged. “Don’t fret about it, no one is dying anytime soon.”

“If you say I shouldn’t, I won’t.”

“Then don’t.” She fell silent for a bit before laughing. “Well, that was a failed attempt at keeping the conversation light. We go from talking about clothes to talking about death.”

“Well, when your girlfriend is the goddess of the dead, death and all its tangents are probably going to be normal conversation topics.”

At that, (y/n) froze and pulled Bucky to a sudden stop.

He grunted as he stumbled, pulled by his hand which was still holding hers. “You alright?” He hadn’t been expecting that, and he didn’t think she would stop unless she had good reason to. His eyes searched her body for any sign of sudden injury or disturbance, but all he could find was the startled expression on her face. 

She stared at him, still as death, her eyes darting all over his body. Her lips were parted in a silent gasp.

“(y/n)?” he called again, his voice cautious and timid.

She was silent for a few moments more before she asked, in a voice as timid as his own, “Wh-What did you just call me?”

“(y/n)?”

“No, before that.”

He paused, wracking his brain for the word. When he finally realized what she meant, heat rose to his face. “I called you m-my girlfriend.”

Hearing it again, she turned her head down, eyeing him through her lashes. “Bucky… You’ve only known me for seven months or so. That’s… that’s not that long at all.” She hung her head, her expression unreadable.

For the first time in a while, Bucky was scared he’d overstepped the unsaid boundaries they’d established. His heart sank in his chest. What had he been thinking? Where had he gotten the idea that they were a couple? Was it from the countless hours they’d spent together? Was it the both of them kinda admitting their feelings back at Pop’s Pastries with no one but the fluorescent lights to bear witness? Why had he thought that meant she wanted to be with him even when he hadn’t asked? Was he really so stupid as to rush into this too fast and just assume? 

He lowered his head in shame. “I… I know and I’m sorry, Doll. I shouldn’t have assumed anything and I—”

“No!” she said suddenly. “I mean, I don’t mind. I just… I’ve never been an official girlfriend before and it’s just… It’s different, y’know?”

“Like a good different?”

She paused for a moment, deliberating silently, before nodding. “I think so. But, if I’m your girlfriend, does that make you my boyfriend?”

“If you want me to be.”

She was quiet for a bit before she nodded her head. The motion was slow at first, so slow that Bucky hardly noticed it, but then she began to nod her head more eagerly and a smile that lit up her whole face took over. “I’d like that very much, but I’m changing the name. ‘Boyfriend’ and ‘girlfriend’ sounds like something teenagers use. I think I’d prefer you to be my partner.”

He chuckled. “Then your partner I shall be. I don’t care what you call me so long as I can be with you.”

“But also,” she said staring at him pointedly, “you have to actually ask me out before we can be anything. Just because I like you doesn’t mean you can cut corners.”

“Fine. (y/n), will you go out on a date with me?”

Her eyes sparkled with joy and mischief as she said, “Sure. Aren’t we on one now?”

He opened his mouth to respond, but he was cut off by Cerberus yipping and the sound of footsteps approaching. 

(y/n) whistled sharply, drawing Cerberus to her side, and placed her hand on his head to hide his red eyes. She straightened up, her cheery manner being replaced with something more serious, and stared down the path where two figures were making their way up.

Bucky’s mouth fell open. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d seen mortals up here. Most of the time he only came across animals or nymphs, but these were full-fledged humans. He tugged (y/n) closer to him, encircling her waist with his arm as he pulled her towards the side of the path to let the people pass.

They were a pair of men, right around Bucky and (y/n)’s physical age, who were huddled together and murmuring in hushed whispers. They were American based on their accents, probably tourists, but that didn’t explain why they were this deep in the island. All the tourist attractions were closer to the bay or the city.

(y/n) had stiffened as she watched them grow nearer; she was not used to living creatures. Bucky saw her eyes flash a light shade of red.

He leaned into her so his lips were just inches away from her ear. “Easy,” he whispered. “They’ll be gone soon.”

She didn’t relax; her glare was fixed on them. “Why are they here?” she hissed. “I thought you said mortals don’t come up this far.”

“Sane ones don’t,” he confirmed before leaning back and calling out to the boys, “Hey! You kids lost or something?”

The one on the left, a brunet, perked up, his eyes startled. “Oh! Uh, sorry, mister. No, we aren’t lost.”

“Then why are you here?” (y/n) took her hand off of her companion’s head and crossed her arms impatiently.

The second boy, a blond, withered slightly under her gaze, his head bowing low. “We heard from locals that the gods roamed here in ancient times. The stories say that they still do. We’re theology majors in college and doing a project on Greek Mythology. We didn’t mean to trespass.”

(y/n) snorted, probably from the comment about the gods. “You boys came up here based on some stories? Well, sorry to burst your bubble, but that’s all they are: stories. And pretty inaccurate ones if we’re being honest. I mean really? Where did they come up with some of that stuff.”

Bucky found her exasperation amusing, especially since most of the inaccurate myths were about her and her sisters. She looked about ready to rant about the truth of the gods but, although Bucky could listen to her talk for hours about anything, he really didn’t think that she should blow their cover to a couple of kids. He tightened his grip on her waist and whispered her name.

She slackened just a bit in his grip, but her eyes never left the men. “You shouldn’t be up here. It’s dangerous.”

The blond was the first to respond by saying, “Please. We just want to explore and maybe take some pictures for the project. Will you at least let us do that?”

Bucky was quick to answer. “Sure, but you guys are seriously going to want to get out of here soon. Not so nice characters venture out here sometimes, and they don’t like intruders.”

They gulped.

Bucky took (y/n)’s hand. “Come on, Doll. Let’s go.”

She whistled once more to Cerberus, giving him the okay to walk, and the three of them began to continue down the path. “Have a nice trip,” (y/n) said, her smile growing mischievous as her eyes flashed red at the boys.

The color seemed to drain from their skin as they stared at her incredulously.

When they were out of earshot, Bucky leaned down to her. “Really?”

She turned to him, her eyebrow cocked. “‘Really’ what?”

“Are you trying to blow our cover? Flashing your eyes at them?”

She waved her hand dismissively. “Nah, just trying to scare them a bit. I never get to have fun with the mortals.” Her lips turned down in a pout. “Let me mess with them!”

“You probably scared them shitless, Doll. I know I’d be freaked if I saw a pretty girl with red eyes.”

“Oh really?” She closed her eyes for a second before opening them to reveal the red that had taken over her irises.

Bucky’s breath hitched in the back of his throat as the rouge stared at him, ensnaring him with their striking gaze. Her eyes shone like rubies, piercing his soul and seeing the very depths of his heart. They were gorgeous, enchanting even. He’d never get tired of that color. “Really really,” he murmured, leaning in closer and pressing his lips to her cheek.

The giggle that passed through her lips was music to his ears. “Gods, you’re such an idiot.”

“I know.” He slowed to a stop by a small bush on the side of the path and reached for it. Simultaneously, it reached back, a small red poppy to match (y/n)’s eyes blossoming as it grew. By the time Bucky’s fingers had reached the plant and gripped the stem, it was in full bloom. Bucky plucked the flower and turned back to (y/n), tucking it behind her ear. “But I’m your idiot.” He let his hand linger on her cheek.

Color rose to her face as she leaned into his hand. “Yes you are,” she mumbled. “Come on, idiot. We probably should be getting back now. Who knows what mischief Peggy and your friend have gotten up to.”

“What? Peggy and Steve? Nah, Steve might be a dumbass, but he’s the second most responsible out of the three of us.” Bucky had no doubt that they were fine, if not hitting it off swell. Ever since his growth spurt, Steve had grown more confident around people. Though, he didn’t know if “people” necessarily included goddesses. Well, guess it was time to find out. 

(y/n) hummed as she turned him and Cerberus around to head back the way they came. “So then does that make you the least responsible?”

“Heh, yeah. But hey, my lack of responsibility led me to you.” And it did; if he had been responsible, he never would’ve taken Steve seriously and ventured down to the Underworld to get that ruby.

“True.” 

They walked in silence the rest of the way back to the clearing. 

Sam had vanished, probably to head down to the city and get food, but Peggy and Steve were sitting in the center of the field. Peggy was laughing at something Steve had said and Steve had the distinct red tint of a blush on his cheeks. Bucky smiled softly as he briefly observed them. Steve and the goddess seemed to be hitting it off. He’d have to make an inquiry about it later.

(y/n) stopped him at the edge of the clearing, right before they exited the trees, and turned to him. “Thank you for letting me come up, Bucky. Even if it was just for a bit. It was just the break I needed.”

He hummed. “Don’t mention it, Doll. You’re always welcome up here. Any time I get to see you makes my day, so feel free to visit whenever.”

“And the same goes for you, Buck.” She looked down at their hands which were still intertwined. “The Underworld is always open for you. You have every right to be down there. And I…” She frowned and bit her lip as if she was confused by what she wanted to or was about to say.

“And you…” Bucky prompted her, hoping to help her get the words out.

She held her silence for a bit longer before pressing her lips together and nodding. “And I want you to come down and see me. My responsibilities keep me pretty tied down there, I won’t always be able to come up and see you like this, but I want to see you. I want you to come down and see me. So please don’t be a stranger.”

Bucky held one of her hands in his as he used the other to cup her cheek. He gently leaned down and kissed her forehead. “I won’t, my queen.”

Satisfied with his answer, she straightened up, a soft grin on her face. “Good. Then I think Peggy, Cerberus and I will be taking our leave.”

“Good luck prying her from Steve’s hands,” Bucky said, looking out at his best friend and the goddess.

(y/n) said nothing but walked out to the pair, Cerberus keeping pace with her wide strides. She crouched down beside Peggy and said something inaudible to her, probably detailing that they had to go.

Peggy nodded and stood. She turned down to Steve and smiled, murmuring something that made him smile back. Peggy stood next to (y/n).

(y/n) dug into her pocket and pulled out what Bucky could only assume to be an Asphodel seed. But, before dropping it, she looked up at him one more time and gave him a smile. He could practically hear her saying, “Until next time,” with the grin. She tossed the seed onto the ground beneath them and the three of them were swallowed by the earth. 

A single Asphodel was left behind.

Left alone with Steve, Bucky walked into the clearing, stopping just beside the Asphodel sprout. He stared down at the flower, a soft smile playing at his lips.

Steve watched it too, but a frown was tugging the corners of his lips down. “We have to pick it, Buck. You know your mom will flip if she sees it.”

“I know. Just…” He sat down next to the flower and looked it over, the feeling of (y/n)’s hand in his lingering. “Just let it live a bit longer.”

Next 13: She Makes a Confession

[kalijhomentethi]

💭

–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–o–

Send a ‘💭’ to learn what my muse thinks of yours.

“Bokkie,” Akali raises an eyebrow, grinning slightly. “You already know what I think—and feel—’bout you. Or is the ring on your finger not enough proof?”

It’s a rhetorical question of course; they both know very well how much they mean to each other. Plus, Akali was in a giving mood anyway, with the holiday season and all. She’s more than willing to shower the love of her life in compliments, which she already does often enough on her own. An additional gift, if you will. She’s got something more special prepared for Kai’Sa later, when they decide to exchange presents.

Speaking of the holiday season though…

Little snowflakes fall by the window, painting a cold yet majestic scene outside. Their lawn is covered in a thick blanket of snow, with Akali-sized snow angels here and there. If one were to look more closely, there are also snow angels a size bigger beside them, ones that only one particular bandmate could make. Various festive ornaments decorate the room they were in, and many more lively baubles were put around the rest of the house. The Christmas tree at one side of the room glitters and lights up in patterns, quietly celebrating the occasion in all its tree-ness.

It’s warm enough inside, but Akali’s wearing a sweater specially made for her. Gotta match with her lovely honey, after all. This’d be their what, third Christmas together? Or is it fourth? Either way, this is only their second Christmas as a married couple. Their second Christmas as wives. As wives. She lets that sink in, feeling a cozy sensation settle in, grin turning a touch shy. Time sure does fly. She moves to take Kai’Sa’s hand in hers, running a thumb along the glinting ring, before she places a kiss on the back of her wife’s hand. “I’m not even sure where to begin.”

So many good things to talk about, so many memories that stood out to her. Though maybe a good place to start would be what brought them together in the first place—K/DA.

“...You, babe, are the best damn dancer I know. No bullshit. I’ve seen a lot of people choreograph steps and make up moves on the fly, but you? You’re number one in my book. And my heart.” She lowers their hands and takes her partner’s free hand as well to gently intertwine their fingers.

“It’s clear you love what you do. Each step’s a perfect fit and in time with the beat. Your students are in the right hands with you as their kick-ass teacher. They’re learning and having fun. They’re pretty lucky, but I’d say I’m even luckier, ‘cause I got you right here with me. My firefly.” She tilts her head up a bit to affectionately brush the tip of her nose against Kai’Sa’s, giving her a cute little smile.

“‘Sides, you know how hard it is to focus on what I’m supposed to do when the music comes in? Your stage presence is insane. Wait, actually– your presence in general is insane, even when you aren’t doing anything. It’s hard enough to keep my eyes off you when you’re near, but when you dance, you’re in your element. It’s impossible for people to not give you their full attention. If I didn’t have to perform, not gonna lie, I’d gladly step aside and watch you move solo.”

She’s rambling now, miraculously not stumbling over her words while she speaks what’s on her mind. And Kai’Sa is on her mind 99.9% of the time.

“And I don’t care what anyone else thinks, you’re the best singer too. Just don’t tell ‘Ri and Eve I said that.” A playful wink. “Your voice is something else, Bokkie. Reaching high notes like they’re nothing, harmonizing like a pro, and rapping like a god? Woo.” She makes a sound, nearly swooning and reminding her for a second of the high note she (unbelievably) reached with the help of the other in the latest song they put out. “Good shit. And for the record, you don’t actually need to sing to sound great. I could listen to you talk the whole day if you’d let me. It’s very…” The tips of her ears turn pink. “...Uh, nice.”

Nice is one way to put it. She likes listening to Kai’Sa the things she’s passionate about.

“Something that’s also nice though is your cooking. Man, it’s so good. No words. No words in the dictionary to tell you how good it is, I swear. You sure you’re not secretly a professional chef? I wouldn’t be surprised if you are. I come here and eat something you prepared then I’m like, this is it.” Her expression makes her look like she’s about to cry, letting go of the other’s hands to bring up her own in a gesture. “The best food to ever exist. Made by the most wonderful woman to ever exist. What a combo.”

‘Most wonderful woman’ is no exaggeration. "You’re the most accepting and supportive person I’ve ever met too. You made me feel like K/DA’s where I’m meant to be. You’re the family I never had.” She allows herself a small, lopsided smile. There’s a lot of emotion packed into that sentence.

“We’ve both got our own little quirks,” She glances at the pods that hover behind Kai’Sa just as her grin widens, the barest hint of fangs showing. “But that didn’t stop you from reaching out and being… Well, you. And I love who you are. You didn’t even change a thing about the way you treated me when I told you what I am. Hell, I think you actually like my other side.” Her eyes glint mischievously at the other when she says this. Of course Kai’Sa liked it, the same way Akali found her symbiote to be endearing and eager to please while around her. They just had a soft spot for one another.

“More importantly though…” Her arms circle around the dancer’s waist, tugging her close as Akali steps into her space, into Kai’Sa’s familiar and comforting warmth. “You’re home. Wherever I go, my thoughts somehow always go to you. ‘She doin’ alright?’, ‘this reminds of her’, ‘I wonder if she needs anything’, or ‘I should take Kai’Sa here next time, she’d love this.’ And when we’re not together, all I can think about is what I’d do just to be in your arms again. No matter what happens, I keep wanting to come back to you. My day isn’t complete without you.”

Akali tries to grasp more words, to tell Kai’Sa how she makes her so happy, but the whole thing was making it difficult for the rapper to simply focus on one aspect of her. How could she, when there’s so many things about the other that she loves? Fidgeting, her fingers tap against the dancer's back, the sweater soft to her touch as she comes up with something to better express herself. While she puts her thoughts together, bits and pieces of what she really wants to say, she reaches a hand up to brush a stray bang from her partner’s face. She feels strangely self-conscious just looking at the other, like they were the only ones existing in this moment.

You beautiful, beautiful woman. I’m so lucky to have you, she thinks to herself before she puts her hand back around Kai’Sa’s waist. Or maybe she said it out loud. She didn’t know anymore at this point.

“Never in my life did I think I’d end up getting married. Or even end up loving someone, holy shit. Didn’t know I was capable of that. But let me tell you: marrying you, the woman of my dreams, was the best damn decision I’ve ever made. So… Thanks, Kai’. For choosing me.” She closes the distance between them, meeting Kai’Sa’s lips for a heartfelt kiss. She pours her everything into it; rough yet tender, pure yearning and overflowing with affection for the wonderful woman in her arms, just in case the dancer had any more doubts of how Akali felt about her.

Even with how long they’ve been together, it feels as good as the first time they kissed. Kai’Sa’s lips are as soft as ever, Akali has the same butterflies in her stomach and the fluttering sensation of her heart. Her fingers curl and hold onto the back of the other’s sweater, as if to keep her from going away. She presses herself as close to Kai’Sa as possible, tilting her head and unconsciously raising herself up on a tiptoe the slightest bit, craving all the contact and warmth her partner has to offer.

She’ll never get tired of this. She could stay like this forever, kissing Kai’Sa, if it weren’t for their need to part for air.

When Akali eventually pulls away, she stays near enough that her breath can still be felt on her wife’s lips, gazing up at her with a barely-there smirk, the fond look in her eyes never leaving her face.

“We still have to cook dinner but,” She glances up at the little plant dangling above their heads. A cleverly-placed mistletoe by hers truly. “...I think that can wait for now. Merry Christmas, Bokkie. Love you.”

And with that, she connects their lips once more, intent on showing Kai’Sa just how much she loved and appreciated her.

[warwaged-archive]

015, 035, 053 for Nalice!

100 RANDOM CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT QUESTIONS // accepting.

015. Are they most likely to fight with their fists or their tongue?

Highly depends on who she’s fighting and why. Nalice is very capable of violence and she enjoys it --- but only when she knows it isn’t a risk to herself. She won’t pick an actual fight she doesn’t know she can win, unless she really has no choice. Avoiding violence is always a self-preservation based choice, though, and not a matter of it actually being something she would prefer not to engage in. If she is confident she can win, she won’t shy away from using her fists (or teeth. or claws. or magic aisudfhiusdhf). If it’s an easy target/a situation in which the consequences don’t seem too troublesome to her, then she’s quite likely to fight in a physical manner.

Arguments, though, are something she does engage in mostly unrestrained. She doesn’t hold back when it comes to words, and actively uses them in ways she expects to wound others. She does taunt and poke and offend, even when she knows it’s dangerous and even if it’s directed to someone she knows could kick her ass (but even while arguing, she will always have an escape plan ready if she thinks coming down to an actual fight she wouldn’t be able to win). I mean, she stood at the top of Wyrmrest with the Dragon Aspects talking shit about Alexstrasza and Korialstrasz -- she dared not physically fight anyone, but she was quite literally provoking everyone around her for an argument. 

035. What is the most important rule your character lives by?

Surviving is the most important thing. Defeat happens, but it doesn’t have to be final. If she survives, it can one day be reversed. Strength matters, but being the strongest doesn’t always mean you’ll survive. Being smart matters even more than raw strength, but being adaptable is what matters most because it is what will allow you to survive.

Even when amidst her own flight and her own siblings, I think it was always true they all had a mentality that those who were strong/good enough would survive, and those who didn’t, well, they weren’t fit for it then. I doubt Onyxia cared much to actively care for her brood in that sense, and even amidst themselves it was often dangerous competition --- and that’s the safest Nalice ever was when she was young, since other dragons and mortals alike would rather have the Black Dragonflight destroyed. So the most important thing to her is survival; more than being the strongest, more than being the most powerful, more than winning. More than other people, too; and if there are exceptions to that rule, they are few and Nalice would be loathe to admit she’d put herself at risk for others.

053. What is your character’s greatest strength?

Much on the line of the previous reply, she’s adaptable. She’s very very clever and that’s definitely part of why she succeeded in much of what she achieved, but ultimately, it’s being adaptable that ensures her survival. She’s proud, but capable of swallowing her pride if the situation demands that of her in any way. She’s aware of her strength, and of when she can rely purely on it or it would be best to avoid conflict. She’s capable of being charming and nice if she needs to be because that’s what she believes will be best for her and her goals; she’s capable of exploiting other people’s views of her, even the negative ones, and turning it in her favor. 

Whatever she needs to do to survive she will, and I think that’s quite obvious in that the moment she let pride get the best of her was also her critical mistake (either if she dies in Karazhan or if, like in my main verse, she still survives somehow, because that’s still not something she does easily), seeing for example how she abandoned her former cover quite carelessly, because she pretty much relied entirely on Deathwing’s return meaning her flight had already won. When she’s out for herself and seeking to succeed and survive, Nalice can achieve lots, and just like it’s noticeable how pride and arrogance and exaggerated confidence leads her to making mistakes, you can look at how far she’s come before that and how much she survives and see  it’s no small feat she survived as long as she did, all the while doing stuff like infiltrate Wyrmrest on behalf of the Blacks. She’s not the strongest Black, far from it; when it comes to just power, she’s not really particularly powerful for a dragon (she’s not weak by any means, but what I mean is she’s not the strongest either, and when it comes to strength alone she’s not that much worthy of note); but when it comes to her mind, how adaptable and clever she can be, that’s why she was still alive after so many of her flight had fallen, and why she was capable of standing right beside the Dragon Aspects in Wyrmrest as she did.  

[criminalhotch]

“A Proposition”~An Ethan Dolan Imagine

A/N: Buckle your seat belts my loves, this one is kind of wild. It’s probably not what you imagine Sugar Daddy Ethan as but maybe. Idk. I thought of something then just rolled with it. I am actually really proud of this so I hope you guys like it!

Word Count: 7, 664 (aka really effing long)

Warnings: Cursing, Smut, DADDY! Ethan, Death, Angst, Fluff, Hints of Domestic Abuse, and Suicide (It’s said once nothing too bad) 

I told you it was wild. 

Ethan’s POV I don’t know what it was that attracted me to the girl who sat in the Starbucks three blocks from my house, but she caught my eye. It could be her mysteriousness, her smile that I, unfortunately, don’t see that often, her eyes, honestly it could be anything. She’s here almost every day as if it’s an escape for her. Her name was Y/N which I only knew from the barista calling her order when it was complete. I need to just suck it up and talk to her, but she was just so beautiful. Who am I? What am I saying? I’m Ethan Fucking Dolan. I walk over to her table, pull the chair across from her out and sit down. “Sure, you can sit there” she chided. “Oh, a sarcastic one I see. I like feisty ones” I smirked. “Yeah, and I’ll kick your ass” she promised. “Good luck with that one, doll,” I said sipping my drink. “Can I help you?” she asked clearly annoyed, at least for now. “I was wondering if I could take you out?” I asked. “Umm, why?” she blushed. “Not so tough now are we, sweetheart?” I asked. “I’m nothing to talk about” she whispered. “Stop,” I said harshly, and she looked at me confused. “I think you’re beautiful” I smiled. “Well thank you umm” she stalled waiting for my name. “Ethan” I finished her sentence and she nodded. “So that date?” I asked. “We’re already sitting here. Tell me about yourself and I will think about it” she answered. She’s a tough nut to crack but I’m willing to work through it. Therefore, I sat and told her about myself. My parents who were still together and my twin brother. (You’ll find out later why Cameron isn’t mentioned) “So, there’s two of you?” she asked at the mention of Grayson. “Oh, no. I’m one of a kind” I told her. “You’re a twin so not exactly, Ethan” she retorted. Hearing her say my name sent shivers down my spine. “I told you some about me, I think it’s your turn” I returned. So, she proceeded to tell me about her parents, her goals, her dreams, and her ambitions. All these things seemed way bigger than me but nonetheless, we continued. “Well speaking of family, Grayson is calling me so how about that date?” I asked hoping for a yes. “Sure, pick me up tomorrow at 7” she smiled. “Deal but I don’t have your address,” I said. “Give me your phone,” she said sticking her hand out and without a moment’s hesitation, I handed it to her. Who am I becoming? Dates? Small Talk? Handing a girl my phone voluntarily? Grayson. I was becoming Grayson.

It was the next night and I was preparing for my date with Y/N. I had to step up my clothing game because I have a feeling she is going to look even more gorgeous than before. We were going to a 5-star restaurant, so I decided dress slacks with a button up and a jacket would be best. I decided to text her to make sure she was wearing appropriate attire.

E: Make sure you wear a long dress

Y/N: Like an evening gown?

E: Um, sure

Y: Already planned on it but thank you for the warning

E: I’ll be there in 30

Y: Alrighty, see you then

 I finished my hair off with some hairspray and got dressed. While I was dressing the nerves began to set in. I hopped in my Jeep and drove to the address she sent me this morning. It was an apartment complex. Apartment 1D (haha sorry I had to) to be exact. I rode the creaky elevator up to her floor then knocked on her door. She opened the door looking drop dead gorgeous just as I expected her to. “You clean up nice” she smiled. “You look just” I sputtered out. “I’m literally speechless” I finished what I was trying to stay. Her cheeks started to blush, so I reached my hand out. “Should we leave?” I asked, and she nodded grabbing my hand. We rode the creaky elevator once more. “I’m getting you out of this building” I whispered as we headed to the Jeep. “It’s just the elevator. There’s been a work order placed” she tried to explain. “I don’t care. Most landlords don’t give a fuck and I’m not having you get stuck in an elevator from 1957” I said kind of exaggerated. “This building was built in 80’s, E” she giggled, and I tensed up. No one calls me, E. Grayson is the only one and even then, it’s rare. We were already halfway there and I think she saw my body language. “What’s wrong, E?” she asked. “Can you stop saying that?” I said harshly. Well looks like I’ve fucked this up already. She stayed silent. “I’m sorry that nickname just has a bitter past for me and I just don’t like it” I tried to explain. “I’m sorry, Ethan” she whispered as she said my name. She was scared of me, what the fuck am I doing? We drove in silence the rest of the way. “Y/N” I sighed as we pulled in. “This restaurant is way too fancy” she commented. “I can afford it, I promise but that’s beside the point” I muttered. “Well then what’s the point?” she bit back. “I’m sorry for snapping at you. Someone very close to me called me that and they are gone now. It’s been long enough and I’m an adult, so it shouldn’t bother me” I explained. “I get it. The toughest people are allowed to be sensitive. Let’s go eat, shall we?” she smiled, and I nodded. She kissed my cheek and it was my turn to blush. I’m turning into mush, what the hell? “Wait,” I said as she tried to open the door. I ran around and opened the door for her because that’s what gentlemen do, right? “Why thank you,” she said as she began walking us into the restaurant. Her eyes moved in a million different directions trying to take in everything around her. “Ethan” she whispered. “Yes?” I asked. “This is too much. You can’t bring me to a place like this. It’s literally our first date” she said still shocked. “So, does that mean there will be more?” I asked. “Only if you take me somewhere less expensive. I don’t need all of this” she said. “Ah but you deserve it” I said, and she rolled her eyes.

We sat at our table and began talking some more. Learning a little bit more about each other. I was trying to decide if I should bring up why I brought her here. Why I truly want her. I was scared she would run but at the same time, I felt as if she’d understand. Our food arrived moments later interrupting our thoughts. “This food is amazing” she commented after a couple bites. “Yeah, I’m not going to bring you to a bad restaurant on the first date,” I said. “Ethan, why did you want me? Me of all people? A girl who has nothing but an apartment with a rickety elevator and some sketchy stairs” she asked. She was insecure, she tried to be a badass, but she couldn’t always keep her composure. “Don’t doubt yourself, Y/N. You’re absolutely gorgeous” I complimented. “You want something” she assumed but she wasn’t wrong. “In a way, yes” I agreed. I guess it’s now or never. “Look I’m not sure if you know who Grayson and I used to be” I started. “You looked familiar so I googled Ethan. You and your brother were the first two to pop up. The Dolan Twins” she said. “Yes, we were YouTubers but not anymore. We stopped after—” I stopped to gather my thoughts as to why we stopped. “Anyways, I have lots of money because after we stopped YouTube Grayson and I founded a company. It is called Dolan Partnerships. Now I’m not implying that you’re a gold digger by any means. That hasn’t crossed my mind once. Now I’m 23 but I have only my family and a couple close friends” I said as she interrupted me. “Are you going to kidnap me? Are you in a gang or something?” she asked. “No, I’m not going to kidnap you. I couldn’t even imagine laying a finger on your pretty head now listen. This part is important” I told her, and she nodded. “My family always harps on Gray and me because we never have girlfriends. My mom wants grandkids” I said, and I saw her eyes grow wide. “I’m not saying we have to fall in love, get married, have kids, and get old together but we can fake it if that’s what you want but I’m willing to buy you things in return for being my girlfriend, so to speak. I have lots of money to spend and no one to spend it on. Part of this is selfish. I want someone to spoil and maybe eventually love because I do like you. I truly think you’re so beautiful but if you don’t want to, I get it” I finished my pitch. She gave me a look of confusion but the words that followed were shocking. “I’ll do it but not because of the stuff or the money but because I like you too” she smiled. “So are we like faking it or are we going to like actually try to have a relationship?” I asked. “It’s totally up to you” I added. “I don’t know why we couldn’t try,” she said. Boy did I pick the right girl for this.

 Y/N POV What in the actual fuck did I just agree to? Ethan was attractive, to say the least. He’s hot as hell quite frankly but you can tell he’s troubled. Deep down you can tell he cares, maybe too much and that’s why he is the way he is. He definitely loves people whole-heartedly once he learns to love them. I didn’t agree to his idea because of the items or the money he has but because I know he’s capable of love and even if he’s not the one I marry then at least I can say I tried to help him when he needed it. Even if it doesn’t work out then you live, and you learn right?

These thoughts all flooded my brain as I laid in bed after Ethan had dropped me off. He walked me to my apartment even though it meant he had to go in the elevator that he despises. He kissed me goodnight, just on the cheek though. Would I have stopped if it had been more? I can’t say for sure. My phone dinging drifted me out of my thoughts.

Ethan: I hope you had fun tonight

Y/N: I did, thank you

Ethan: You want to do something Saturday?

Y/N: Sure, but can we not do anything expensive?

Ethan: The entire point is so I can spoil you

Y/N: Ok but let’s ease into it. I’m not used to this

Ethan: How about you can come over and we will get take out?

Y/N: You promise that you aren’t trying to kidnap me?

Ethan: I promise

Y/N: I have an early day. I’ll talk to you tomorrow

Ethan: Alright, good night. Sleep well, gorgeous

Y/N: Good night, Ethan. I need to make up a good nickname for you

Ethan: haha

Y/N: There was one from a video I watched from your channel, but I can’t remember it

Ethan: NO!

Y/N: Ah, Eee-tee-wee-tee. I like it!

Ethan: Goodnight, Y/N

I chuckled and then plugged my phone in. I was curious as to why he got so upset over me calling him E. It’s common to nickname someone after their first initial. There was something going on there. Maybe I’ll ask on Saturday.

We had spent the next couple days texting each other quite often and he even called me once. I was excited to just spend time with him and this way he didn’t have to spend boatloads of money on me. He told me to wear something comfortable, so I threw on some leggings, a nice sweater, put my hair in a bun, applied a little bit of mascara, and some boots to shield my toes from the bitter cold. He insisted on picking me up again. “You’re not staying here much longer. I do not trust that elevator” he told me. “Ethan, I have a lease and I just signed it four months ago” I explained. “Y/N, I have money and I will pay for you to break your lease” he replied. “Well, where would I live?” I asked. “With me?” he questioned even himself. “I barely know you,” I told him. “You’re right that was dumb” he mumbled. “How about I stay a couple nights a week then we will increase it little by little” I suggested. “Sounds good but you’re still moving out of that apartment,” he said again. “You are so damn stubborn” I exclaimed, and he gave me a cheeky smile. This boy, I swear.

“Chinese?” he asked. “Sounds good” I smiled as he picked up his phone to place the order. “It’ll be here in half an hour,” he said putting his phone down. “What should we do?” I asked him. “A tour?” he asked as we had only made it to one room, the kitchen. It was huge. “Sure,” I said. He pulled my hand into his and pulled me through the house. “This is the living room,” he said as I looked around. “Dining room, that I never use” he explained. “Maybe we could have a party here or even do Thanksgiving” I suggested. “You would want to?” he asked. “Only if you want to” I smiled, and he nodded. He showed me to a couple more rooms downstairs then we went up the grand staircase which was magnificent. “This is my guest room,” he said for when he has family stay. “This is my room,” he told me. His room was pretty clean, not great but not bad for a 23-year-old bachelor. “And this is your room if you don’t want to sleep in my room yet which I totally understand” he explained.

 I wasn’t sure how I felt about sharing a room with him, maybe I’d try it? It sounds nice not sleeping alone for once. We toured the rest of the house the hallways, the closets, the bathrooms, and other things. Someone rang the doorbell as we finished, probably the Chinese delivery guy. Ethan went to get it as I walked the house. So, he was basically my sugar daddy, right? He wants to buy me things and spoil me, but I don’t know how this works. “Can we talk?” I asked as we started munching on our take out. “Sure,” he said hesitantly. “I’m not exactly sure how this all works?” I told him. “How what works?” he asked. “Youbeingmysugardaddy” I said fast, and he chuckled. “It’s easy if you want something, tell me, and I’ll buy it. If I think you deserve something, then I’ll buy it for you. It’s not a bad thing. I want to spoil you” he said as he shoved Chow Mein into his mouth. “I don’t need anything, Ethan. I have everything” I said. “That’s where you’re wrong because I have a plan for tomorrow” he smiled. “Oh, yeah?” I asked. “It’s a surprise though,” he told me, and I scoffed.

We finished our Chinese as well as our conversation. He picked a decent looking movie to watch on Netflix. “Can we cuddle?” he asked in a whisper tone. “Yes, Ethan” I smiled. He was already on the couch, so I pretty much had no option but to basically lay on top of him. Before the movie was over he had fallen asleep. He looked so peaceful. It was around 11 when the movie ended so I decided to wake him up. “Ethan. Ethan. Ethannn.” I said, and his eyes finally opened. “Hmm?” he hummed. “Let’s get you to bed” I stated sitting at the end of the couch. “Only if you come with” he negotiated. “Alright, fine. Let’s go” I said standing up trying to get him off the couch. His eyes shot open when he realized that I agreed to stay the night. “Are you going to sleep in my room or your room?” he asked quietly. “This house is so big. I’m kind of scared to sleep alone” I admitted. “Good then you can sleep in my room where I can cuddle you and protect you,” he said, smiling then getting up from the couch.

The next morning, I woke up and the bed was empty. I went downstairs to see the entire menu of IHOP on the kitchen table. “I uh didn’t know what you liked, and I didn’t want to wake you, so I got a little bit of everything” he blushed. “You could’ve woken me up and we could’ve gone together” I smiled kissing his cheek. “I wanted to surprise you besides there’s a whole day of surprises coming today” he smirked. “Ethannnn” I groaned. “Please just let me spoil you” he begs. “Fine but I’m going to complain about it,” I said taking a bite of the strawberry pancakes. “We’re not going to eat all of this why don’t you ask Grayson if he wants to join us?” I suggested. “That’s a good idea,” he said grabbing his phone. After a short phone call with his brother Ethan told me Grayson was on his way. Soon enough Grayson barged through the door. “Who is she?” Grayson asked. “I’m Y/N-Ethan’s—” I trailed off. “She’s my girlfriend so don’t get any ideas, little bro” Ethan warned. “I may be your little brother but I’m bigger in every way” he winked. I laughed and shook my head. They were definitely brothers. “I didn’t know that I agreed to be your girlfriend,” I said. “It’s just easier than explaining the truth and maybe one day, right?” he asked. “You’d like that wouldn’t you?” I asked. “Mhmm, very much,” he said as I fed him the last bite of the cinnamon roll pancake. We got ready while Grayson finished everything we couldn’t eat. “Hey, is Gray going with us?” I asked. “I don’t know. I didn’t think about it, why?” he asked. “Well I should probably get to know him, right? He is your twin” I told him. “I’ll ask him,” he said walking to the door. “GRAY” he yelled. “WHAT?” Grayson yelled back. “YOU WANT TO GO OUT WITH Y/N AND ME?” he shouted. “SURE!” Gray answered back. “Well there’s your answer,” he said. “I’m going to shower real quick,” he said. “Can I um join you? Just so we can leave faster” I answered. “Whatever you want, princess” his growing dark. He walked into the bathroom to warm the shower up. I couldn’t tell you why I was so comfortable with Ethan, but I was. He made me feel happy and safe. I felt like I had known him for years not a few days. I had played my life so safe maybe it’s time I’m bad. “The shower is ready!” Ethan calls. I walk into his bathroom where he has already stripped down to his boxers and I bit my lip. I slipped my pants down my legs revealing my underwear, thank god I chose some cute ones to wear. I tugged my shirt over my head revealing my breasts and I immediately covered them. “This was your idea. You have a beautiful body, don’t cover yourself” he said removing my hands from my boobs and placing them around his neck. His hands rested on my hips. “Can I kiss you?” he asked quietly, and I nodded. He started at my lips kissing me softly, but it was a deep, meaningful kiss. He moved his way down my chin to my neck, from my neck down my chest, and then to my boobs. His lips wrapped around my nipple and I moaned involuntarily. He began sucking and I hissed at the feeling. “Ethan” I gasped. He then kept moving down my body. His lips kissed in between my breasts once then down my stomach. “You’re so gorgeous. I can’t wait to cherish your body every day” he muttered. He then continued his trek down my body. His lips made there way down until he hit the line of my underwear. “Would you like for me to take these off?” he asked. “Oh, please” I groaned as he looped his finger on either side of my black lace panties from Victoria Secret. He pulled them down my legs slowly taking in the sight in front of him. He was gentler than I expected him to be. “I hope you know we aren’t fucking in the shower” he smirked. “What the fuck, Dolan” I groaned now sexually frustrated. “We don’t have time and Grayson is downstairs” he explained. “Please,” I said sticking my lip out and pouting. “I won’t leave you hanging, baby girl. I promise” he smirked again. “After you,” I said gesturing to the shower. He pulled his boxers down releasing his semi-hard member causing me to bite my lip again. He was already that big and not even fully hard. “You know, it’s not polite to stare” he snickered. I rolled my eyes then stepped into the shower. “I don’t have any shampoo, soap, or conditioner,” I said disappointedly. “It’s ok, I went and got you some. You have your own shelf” he said pointing to it. “Aw, thanks” I smiled kissing his cheek. Pushing the past few minutes out of my head I began to wash my hair with the shampoo he had gotten for me. All of a sudden I felt a pair of large hands massage my boobs. “Ethan, what are you doing?” I asked. “Washing your body, continue with your hair. I’m trying to help” he explained. He had pushed his front into my back and I couldn’t feel his erection in between my thighs. This boy was going to be the death of me. I had just finished the shampoo when I felt his hands move lower. He was teasing me. “Ethan, please” I whispered as I put the conditioner in my hair. The fingers of his right hand drifted over my clit causing me to buck my hips. “Eager, are we?” he smirked finally granting me of my wish. He rubbed my clit in gentle, continuous strokes. I hummed in pleasure. I began washing the conditioner out of my hair as he moved in front of me. I felt one of his fingers slip inside of me, moving slowly. “Ethan” I moaned as he continued. “More, I need more” I groaned. “More, what?” he asked. “Another finger” I suggested, and he did as told. He slipped another finger inside of my soaked pussy. He began going faster and harder. Maybe he wasn’t as gentle as I thought. I finished washing the conditioner out of my hair. “Ethan I’m done showering,” I said. His fingers began to pump inside of me faster and harder than before. My head fell into his chest. He was supporting both of us at this point while I became a moaning mess in front of him. “I’m close” I whispered and before I knew it his other hand met with my clit again. I hissed at the new sensation. It was enough to send me over the edge. “Oh fuck. I’m cumming, daddy. I’m cumming” I moaned not realizing what I was saying. My release soaking his fingers even more. My eyes grew wide as I came off of my high. “Daddy, huh?” he snickered, and I blushed. “It’s ok, I like it. It’s hot especially spilling from your beautiful lips” he said stepping under the water. I looked at him, taking in the sight in front of me. His body was glorious, and his dick was completely hard by now.  A thought came to me as he began rubbing the water through his hair to make sure it all got wet because of how thick his hair was. I reached down and wrapped my hand around him. His eyes shot open. “Y-you don’t have to do anything” he stuttered. “Yes, I do, daddy,” I said as I winked at him while sliding down to my knees. My eyes never breaking contact with his hazel ones. I wrapped my lips around his tip sucking lightly. “Y/N, baby girl” he moaned. I continued what I was doing as I could tell it was driving him crazy. I then moved my head farther down his length taking more and more of him into me. I used my hand on what I couldn’t fit in his mouth. I bobbed my head up and down as he moaned above me. “God, you look so beautiful sucking daddy’s cock while he’s trying to shower” he groaned. I looked up at him as we made eye contact. I felt his dick twitch inside my mouth. He was close. “I’m close, princess. Don’t stop” he pleaded. I took a little bit more of him in my mouth until his dick hit the back of my throat causing me to choke around him. This caused him to groan even more. I went back to just sucking on his tip knowing how sensitive it was and how close he was. It wasn’t long until he muttered “I’m going to cum, baby girl” he warned. Then just like clockwork, he moaned loudly as he came. “Fuck, I was not expecting that,” he said relieved. “Expecting what?” I asked. “Oh, god. Any of this” he said completely out of breath. “You finish showering and cleaning yourself up. I’m going to go get ready” I told him as I turned to pull the shower curtain open. As I went to step out a harsh slap spread across my ass. “Ethan” I scowled, and he just smiled.

I got ready in about 20 minutes which was record timing. Ethan got out of the shower about five minutes after I did. When we were ready we went back downstairs. “You guys took forever!” Grayson noticed. “We took separate showers, that’s why” I lied, and he nodded. We loaded into Ethan’s jeep and then we were off for an adventure. “Where are we going?” I asked. “The Mall” Ethan said nonchalantly. “You don’t need to buy me anything,” I said. “But I do. You have like no clothes at my house, so we need to change that” he said as he pulled into a parking spot. I sat in the passenger seat not wanting to get out for this. “If you don’t get out of this seat in three seconds, daddy is going to have to punish you” he growled lowly, so Grayson didn’t hear him. I decided it was in my best interest to just suck it up and let him buy whatever he wants for me. We walked in and as we walked through the door Ethan intertwined our fingers. What was he doing? We spent the day going in and out of almost every store. We went to the Apple Store and he got me an iPhone X when I would have been fine with a 7. We went to Victoria Secret where he got me some panties amongst other things. We also went to a bunch of clothing stores. We got back to the car and the trunk was filled with bags from both Ethan and Grayson’s purchases. “Ethan, how much did you spend on me today?” I asked as I took a sip of my drink. “Oh, about 3 grand,” he answered as I spit my water all over his Jeep. He and Grayson then began laughing. “That’s way too much, in one day!” I shouted. “You only know about 2 grand of it though” he explained. “That doesn’t make it any better!” I said, and he smiled. “You need to get over me spending money on you. I know you didn’t ask me to, I WANT to. I have plenty of money, so you don’t need to worry your pretty little head about a thing” he smiled kissing me once. “Wait what did you spend a thousand dollars on that I don’t know about?” I asked curiously. “You’ll find out later,” he said. “Grayson! Tell me what you know!” I demanded. “I know nothing” he smiled. I hate The Dolan Twins.

We got back and unloaded all of the bags into his house. I began taking the tags off so I could wash everything. “The maid could do that,” he said. “You have a maid?!” I exclaimed. “Yes, babe. She works Tuesdays and Thursdays” he told me. “I can do the laundry. I’m bored anyway” I told him. “Help me carry this to the laundry room,” I said and so he did. “What about the other things?” I asked. “Later” is all he said. I started the lights in the washer then headed to the living room where Ethan was on his phone. “Why did you pick me for all of this?” I asked. “I liked how mysterious you looked sitting in the coffee shop” he answered. “But I’m not pretty, or interesting, or funny” I admitted. “That’s where you are wrong. You are all of those things. You are the most beautiful girl I have ever laid eyes on” he told me, and I interrupted him. “I’ve seen your exes on the internet, Ethan. They are all at least four times prettier than I am” I said. “Bullshit now listen to me,” he said harshly. “You are absolutely gorgeous. The way you are and the way you do things are so intriguing to me. I want to know everything about you and you are funny. Not as funny as I am but you’re funny in your own way” he said kissing my forehead. Maybe I wasn’t crazy for doing this. Maybe he was actually being genuine. “Do you mean all of that?” I asked him, and he nodded. “You already mean the world to me. I think it’s because you didn’t know who I was. You didn’t freak out because I’m Ethan Dolan. You treated me like a person and I appreciate that. You are so kind and down to earth. You hate me spending money on you even though that’s the sole purpose of this arrangement” he chuckled then continued, “You can’t or at least you don’t judge me on my past. Well I mean you judge Grayson and I’s old videos but that’s what they are there for but my dumber decisions. You’re with me for me and not my money or my fame. There’s lots to like about you, Y/N. Don’t doubt yourself” he finished as a tear rolled down my cheek. “Why on Earth are you crying?” he said. “That was the sweetest thing anyone has ever said to me” I whimpered. “Every word I said was true,” he said pulling me into his lap. “Now I, well we, have a dinner to go to with my parents’ so you need to get ready for that” he instructed. “What do I need to wear?” I asked. “Preferably nothing but that’s not appropriate but that’s your first of a few surprises” he smirked.

“Follow me to your room,” he said. “The room I’m not going to use” I chuckled. “We can turn it into a closet” he commented. We got up to my room and there was a dress bag and beside it was a shoe box. I opened the box to reveal beautiful, nude heels then I unzipped it to see a long, black dress in it. “This is beautiful, Ethan,” I said. “I know and it’s all yours so get ready so I can see how sexy you look in it,” he said pinching my butt. I went to the bathroom and started getting ready. It was winter in New Jersey, and we showered this morning so that was done. I decided to curl my hair and then do my make up with a black and brown smoky eye. I slipped the dress on but then realized I couldn’t zip the zipper. “ETHAN!” I yelled, and he came running in with black dress slacks and black dress socks on but no shirt yet. “Will you zip me?” I asked as he went to my back and zipped me up. “Oh god, you look so damn good” he growled in my ear. “Finish getting ready, we have to leave soon,” I said shooing him away. He came back in with a black dress shirt, black tie, and black jacket. He looked HOT. I hadn’t even noticed that he was holding a small bag. “These are your last two surprises,” he told me pulling out a small box to reveal diamond earrings. “Ethan, this is so much” I whispered. “Only for you,” he said taking the earrings out, so I could put them in. “They’re beautiful,” I said placing them in my ears. “I have a small speech for this last one,” he said. “I have way too much makeup on to cry so keep it short” I warned. “I will” he chuckled. “Y/N, I know this may seem fast and sudden but in the few short days we have known each other we’ve come so close in more ways than one and I can’t stand the thought of not having you by my side. I truly hope you feel the same way I do so that’s why I got you this gift, but I need you to close your eyes” he said, and I obliged. He draped the necklace around me. “Don’t open your eyes yet” he warned. “I got you this necklace in hopes that you would maybe want to my girlfriend like officially now,” he said, and I opened my eyes. I looked in the mirror to see an E with a small heart gleaming on my chest. “Yes, Ethan. I’ll be your girlfriend like officially now” I giggled as I kissed him quickly. He then started to pout, “Lipstick, babe,” I said, and he sighed.

  Ethan’s POV

We walk into the dinner party that my parents are hosting. I see my mom and Grayson first. “Ethan, who is this?” my mom asks excitedly. “Mom, this is my girlfriend, Y/N” I smiled. “Hello, Mrs. Dolan,” Y/N said. “Oh please dear, call me Lisa!” my mom said. “Have you met Ethan’s twin?” she asked gesturing to Grayson. “Yes, mom. He was with us early today” I explained. “Why am I always the last to know these things?” she scoffed. “You aren’t. It’s really new and dad doesn’t know yet” I told her. “Ahh, yes. Your father, where is he?” she asked, and I shrugged then my mom walked away. “Your mom is sweet” Y/N said. “Yeah, she is” I smiled walking through the house with her hand in mine.

We had been there about an hour when I heard a voice, a voice I didn’t want to hear. “Your girlfriend is awful pretty isn’t she, E?” I heard as I turned to see him. The person who ruined my life, my family’s life. “Why are you here?” I growled. “A friend of a friend invited me as her plus one,” he said. “You should be in prison,” I said. “For what, E?” he asked, and my blood began to boil. “You know why!” I screamed. “No, I don’t. Please elaborate” he taunted. “BECAUSE YOU KILLED MY FUCKING SISTER,” I said connecting my fist to his face then tackling him to the ground. “Ethan!” I heard Y/N shout but the seemed so far away. All I saw was red. “DON’T FUCKING CALL ME E, EITHER. ONLY CAMERON AND GRAYSON CALL ME E” I screamed beating him to a pulp before Grayson and my dad pulled me off of him. “Ethan, what the-“Grayson said before he realized who it was. “You need to leave now, Andrew” Grayson ordered. “I was invited here,” he said. “You have five seconds to get the fuck out of here before I have the entire police department here” Grayson growled. I was angry then I looked at Y/N, she was terrified. My sweet girl was probably terrified. I felt my face soften when our eyes met. I watched as Andrew left followed behind Grayson. “Never come back, EVER or you will leave in cuffs, do you understand me?” Grayson shouted at him as Andrew flipped him off. Soon enough my mom came over the speaker system “I’m sorry but we are going to have to cut this party short. Thank you all for coming but my family is shaken up after tonight’s events. I’m so sorry for all of this. Drive Safe!” she said as everyone began to exit. Time began to slow, and the lights began to fade before-black.

I woke up in my childhood bed with Y/N sitting at the foot of it. “Baby” I whispered, and she turns around. “How long was I out?” I asked. “About an hour” she answered, her voice sounded very monotone. “What the hell happened back there?” she asked. “Well I guess now is as good a time as any” I mumbled. “So, Grayson and I had an older sister, her name was Cameron,” I said.

Flashback.

“Cam, you have to leave him,” I said. “I know but every time I try to, he beats me nearly to death, E” she cried into my chest. “When he works next, we will go over and get all of your stuff then get a restraining order. We can even file domestic abuse” I told her, and she nodded. Even though she was my older sister I was going to do everything in my power to help her, so would Grayson. “I’m sorry that Gray and I can’t be here to protect you all the time” I apologized. “Don’t apologize. I am so proud of everything you guys have become. You shouldn’t have to worry about your older sister” she said. “But we do,” Grayson said as he entered the room. “Every day, Cameron,” I told her.

The following Wednesday her dick head boyfriend had to work an extra-long shift, so we went to get all of her shit then head to the police station. Grayson, my parents, and I all went over there. We managed to get her moved out in just over an hour. We had moved everything into our parent’s house. We got the charges filed and so we didn’t hear from him at all. Hopefully, because he was behind bars. It was a couple days later, and Cameron was adjusting. “Hey, Cam?” I asked. “Yes, E?” she asked. “We want to talk to you,” Grayson said from behind me. “I don’t need a lecture” she groaned. “It’s not, we promise,” I told her. “It’s a proposition” Grayson finished. “We think it would be best for you if you moved to LA with us. Far away from Andrew and if something bad happens then you will have both of us right there with you. You can help us edit our videos like in the old days” I smiled. “I think a change in scenery would do me good,” she said. “So, you’ll come with us?” Grayson asked. “I have a feeling I am going to regret this but yes I will move to LA with you guys” she smiled. This one was a real smile. The first one I’d seen in months. “Well we have plane tickets for Saturday and it’s Monday, so I’d get to packing” Grayson suggested. “You guys are the best brothers a girl could ask for,” she said hugging us both. Finally, she’d be safe.  

Or so I thought..

I had run to the store to grab a couple last minute things for our flight back to LA. I was only going to be gone for half an hour, so I checked with Cameron to make sure she’d be ok by herself while I was gone. I had gotten everything I needed and was heading back to the car when my phone began to ring. It was Cameron. “E, Help” is all she said before the line went dead. With everything that happened we had a family app, so I checked her location. Andrew’s house. He had kidnapped her. I called the police and drove straight there going entirely too fast, but I didn’t care. I also had called Grayson and told him what happened while he called our parents. I arrived at his house just as the police did. They busted down his door and I ran through the house trying to find Cameron. I found her in the basement lying in a pool of her own blood. She had been shot. “Cameron” I cried as I ran to her. “Ethan” she croaked out. She was alive but barely. “You’re going to be ok,” I told her. “No, I’m not. I’m dying” she said as a tear rolled down my cheek. “Cam, no,” I told her. “Tell mom, dad, and Grayson that I love them,” she said. “No, Cameron you can tell them,” I said. “No, I won’t make it” she croaked out. “I love” she stopped to breathe. “I love you E,” she said before she went unconscious and her breathing stopped.

End of Flashback

Y/N POV

“He killed her but made it look like suicide, so he was never charged” Ethan finished as he began to cry even harder. “Ethan” I sighed as I pulled him into me. “Why didn’t you tell me this sooner?” I asked. “It hurts, it was two years ago but it still hurts” he whimpered as his head laid in my lap. There was a knock at the door. “Come in,” I said, and it was Grayson. “I see he woke up,” he said scratching the back of his head. “Yeah about 15 minutes ago,” she said. “He told you, didn’t he?” Grayson asked. “Yes, I’m so sorry, Gray,” I said to him. “It’s ok. I came to terms with it a long time ago. Some days hurt more than others, but Ethan has the worst of it” he told me. “I can imagine,” I said as I played with his hair as he’d fallen asleep in my lap. “He’s a really good brother,” Grayson said. “I can tell,” I told him. “He really likes you, Y/N. He has never done this much with any of his exes” Grayson told me. “Really?” I asked, and Grayson nodded. “Y/N” Ethan grumbled. “What baby?” I cooed softly. “I’m not done explaining,” he said. “Then continue,” I told him. “Can I stay in your lap?” he asked. “You can do whatever you want,” I told him. He stayed in my lap, but he turned so that he was on his back instead of his side. “Hey, Gray,” he said. “Hey, bro” Gray smiled lightly. “That was the first time I had seen him since that night and I lost it. I wanted to kill him. Just like he did to Cameron” he said as he began sobbing all over again. “Then I saw your face and I was scared you’d run. I was worried that I had scared you so bad that you’d hate me. I was worried that I wouldn’t get to wake up next to you ever again” he sobbed harder. “I was scared because I had never seen that side you then you passed out. After that I just wanted you to wake up” I told him. “When I get that angry I pass out” he explained. “That’s what Grayson told me earlier before he carried you up here,” I told him. “Cameron’s why we stopped YouTube. She was a big reason as to why we loved making videos. I was so hurt and depressed that I couldn’t bring myself to do it. It wasn’t fair to anyone. Grayson, me, the fans” he explained. “I understand,” I told him. “So, you aren’t scared of me?” he asked. “Not at all” I smiled as I continued playing with his hair. We sat in silence for a minute. “She was the first person to call me, E. She rarely called me by my name. That’s why when you called me that I got so upset. E was the last thing she ever said” he paused “to anyone” he said quietly. “It’s ok, babe. I’m not mad about it” I said to him. “I really like when you call me that though so if you want to call me E, I’d be ok with that. Plus, it would match your necklace” he said. I had forgotten about the necklace. I was still wearing it even after I had changed into some of his old clothes. “I’ll call you whatever you want me to. Whether it be Ethan, E, babe” I listed. “Don’t forget E-tee-wee-tee” Grayson chimed in and Ethan groaned. “You just had to bring it up” he sighed. Grayson and I both laughed. “I’m going to bed,” Grayson said. “Night Y/N,” He said. “Goodnight, Gray” I smiled at him shyly. “Goodnight, Ethan. Love you, bro” he said. “Night, love you too,” he said. “E?” I asked as I looked down at his hazel eyes. “As crazy as it sounds, I think I love you,” I told him. “Good, because I think I love you too” he smiled up to me, so I pressed my lips to his. I removed my lips and saw him pouting. “I’m sorry for everything you went through,” I said. “It’s ok, some days are worse than others. My days have been better since I met you” he said. “Really?” I asked. “Really.”

   (A/N: Cameron Dolan is perfectly fine. She only died for story purposes)

[skull001]

The onl thing I truly lament about the cancellation of the Archie comic from years ago is that it happened during the 4-part Megadrive story arc that was part of Sonic's 25th anniversary celebration... and which only saw two issues, half the story, published.

I really enjoyed seeing the entire gang be reunited in a story that took place within the classic era, essentially being what the 20th anniversary comics should had been (not that crap that focused on the FF's and left both Amy and Knuckles out. The fucking nerve those people had back then). Better yet, it was penciled by Tyson Hesse, who is pretty much my favorite artist when it comes to official media.

Obviously as an Amy fan, the first issue was my favorite since it did what in the games they still don't have the guts to do: show that classic Amy can kick ass. Her characterization was also wonderful because she was funny, still had her crush and wasn't afraid nor ashamed of expressing it, but also ot wasn't exaggerated nor "in your face". Just the right amount mixed with her being as capable as the others. All the things I ever wanted for Amy.

The second issue though is something I'm a bit mixed. On the good stuff, we get to see Sonic being selfish and wanting to hog all the adventure for himself by going solo, only to later find out that it's not as fun as when the gang is with him (You hear that main console games?). Then there is Tails, Amy and Knuckles having to deal with baddies without Sonic's help and surprise, surprise... Amy displays leadership, and coordinates Tails and Knuckles so they can better use their talents and working as a team, win their battle. This made me happy because:

a) It shows that the gang can survive without Sonic and that they are not as useless as some of the Sonic-only games (*cough*Generations*cough*LostWorld*cough*Forces*cough*) want us to believe.

b) Amy as leader! I always knew that had Sonic not be present for whatever reason, it would be Amy, and  not Tails like everyone often assumes, who takes charge and rallies the others to work towards getting things done. This is no random attribute like it happened in Forces with Commander Knuckles (seriously Sonic Team... Why?). Amy is a natural because she lacks the ego of Sonic or the desire for attention/recognition since doing what benefits everyone has always been a higher priority, just like in Heroes where the only reason her adventure starts is because of Cream and Big's lost friends, with Sonic being only a secondary/side objective.

On the bad stuff, and frankly, not really "bad" since the story flowed nicely... It's more of a thing that to this day bothers me and is more of a pet-peeve of mine: Amy taken out of the picture so that the classic trio of Sonic, Tails and Knuckles can shine. I know Sega/ST has a hard-on for this group, especially for it's promotional appeal, but really? Amy was already established to be competent... in fact, Tails was the weakest link of the group (especially in the first issue) yet it's Amy who as usual has to take a dive and get kidnapped so that the rest of the issue can show the boys doing all the cool stuff against Metal Sonic.

Personally, I would not had been bothered had Amy at least had gone down putting a fight against the robot that once kidnapped her in CD, but come on? It's as if they were like "OK Amy, you had you fun, but now is time for the REAL (Sanic) heroes from the MAIN Genesis trilogy of games to shine." I dunno, but it's just something I never liked and why I continue to detest the trio concept (not the characters themselves mind you) since it's always Amy who gets the crap and kept from having her potential fully used.

The bitter part is that the story was never concluded and most likely never will, since there were two more issues to go and chance to make it up to Amy for pulling off the whole kidnapping thing... again.

What makes me mad is that you will never see this shit happen to Tails or Knuckles since they are essentially untouchable, while Amy is seen as fair game. I sometimes wonder if it has ever occurred to Sega/ST that Amy shining isn't going to take away from either Tails or Knuckles, since Amy is the kind of character that can shine on her very own merit and potential and doesn't need to rely on cheap tricks nor undermining others to look good... unlike what sometimes has been done to her to benefit other more popular characters.

Ok, got that rant out of my chest. XP

[mrmichaelchadler]

Jon Bernthal’s Incredible Work Gets Lost in the Second Season of Netflix’s The Punisher

Jon Bernthal is insanely good in “The Punisher.” A remarkable blend of skill, vulnerability, and the work of a great casting director have to coalesce for a performance like this to exist at all. Sometimes he moves, and it’s as though some sort of programming has kicked in for Frank Castle; his limbs carry him forward with incredible force and viciousness, but his face remains a mask of agony. At other times, his movement tells another story, and it’s as though Castle chooses to give over to some base instinct or primal drive, and he opens his mouth and bellows, allowing the beast to consume the man. Bernthal never forgets to check in on Castle’s adrenaline levels. Something happens—he’s startled, or frightened, or he kills or is wounded, and it lingers. The pulse takes a good long while to slow. This isn’t a man who makes jokes or acts affectionately with ease, and Bernthal shows us how hard it is for Castle to unclench the fist within. He is endlessly thoughtful. He plays Castle unsparingly, but with compassion. He gives him a soul, but does not let that soul off the hook. He is even, occasionally, funny.

It is not an exaggeration to call Bernthal’s performance in “The Punisher” one of TV’s best unsung turns, but existing as it does in the meandering, frustrating second season of the Netflix series, his excellent work is actually a bit of a double-edged sword. He’s so good that it underlines all the shortcomings of the writing. It becomes clear exactly how much shoddy storytelling he’s compensating for, because when the camera leaves him, it all falls to shit. It’s not that the other actors are bad. Far from it. They’re just not Jon Bernthal. When he can’t square the bad writing or fill in the gaps, it’s obvious the show has lost its way, because he’s been making it work, episode after episode, and even he can’t make this right. And his gripping performance adds one more layer of disappointment to the proceedings, because here’s the most unforgivable sin of the second season of “The Punisher”: You have a magnificent performance like this one at your disposal, and this is what you choose to do with it?

The action picks up well after the end of the first season, and Frank Castle has taken his get-out-of-jail-free card and hit the open road. The Punisher is dead, long live nice-guy drifter Pete Castiglione, the kind of regular Joe who stops at a roadside bar in Michigan just because the music sounds nice. A chance encounter gets him thinking about putting down roots, but then a smart-mouthed, wily teenager winds up in a jam with a whole lot of lethal force, and within minutes Pete’s gone and Frank’s back, covered in blood and aggravated by the bad guys and the scrappy teen alike. Amy (Giorgia Whigham) has suddenly become Castle’s responsibility, and that makes her a bloody pain in the ass. (She literally has to stitch up a wound in his ass.) The people chasing her don’t stop coming, so Frank doesn’t stop killing, and that’s the season—though of course, there’s a lot more to it than that.

And that’s all pretty good. Not all of it works—Frank ends up repeating himself a lot, and the appealing Whigham handles the scrappy, quippy stuff better than the heavy, haunted stuff—but it lives somewhere between “okay, let’s move along now” and “yes, Frank Castle and an unruly teenage daughter, more please, thanks.” But there’s another major arc to this season. It’s unwieldy to say the least, but one can fairly say that “The Punisher” is essentially split in half: There’s the “8 Simple Rules for Saving My Teenage Sidekick” storyline and all its component parts, and then there’s season one villain Billy Russo (Ben Barnes) and the mess that comes with him. The first half of the season essentially hinges on the idea that Billy may or may not remember what he did after leaving the military, up to and including the murder of Frank’s entire family—who, as Curtis Hoyle (Jason R. Moore) tells Amy, were pretty much also Billy’s family, making the betrayal that much more abhorrent. Dinah Madani (Amber Rose Revah), who basically haunts Russo’s hospital room, is certain he’s lying, and that he remembers it all. Krista Dumont (Floriana Lima), a psychologist with her own traumatic backstory, believes that he doesn’t, and is certain that he’s capable of and worthy of redemption. Russo is haunted nightly by dreams of a skull, says he misses his brothers-in-arms Frank and Curtis, and claims to have no idea who messed up his face. A very, very, very long time is spent on him remembering, and almost none in actually interrogating any of the ideas and themes found therein.

Barnes doesn’t lack abilities, and Revah (who flits, as Moore does, between both stories) fares about as well as anyone could within this stagnant, sour plot. Lima, terrific as Maggie Sawyer on “Supergirl,” gets the rawest of all raw deals—to say her storyline goes to every stale and empty place you think it will shouldn’t be a spoiler, but once you’ve seen one really bogus female psychologist storyline, you’ve seen them all. Still, she’s good. They all are. But there’s no helping this fact: By the time Billy Russo makes the same heavy-handed, joyless speech for the umpteenth time, it’s likely that viewers won’t be so much wishing that he’d get his memories back, as wishing that he’d forget more things, like his lines, or where he lives, or that he’d prefer to stay out of jail. It’s endless, it’s nowhere near as interesting as “The Punisher” thinks it is, and it has the disobliging habit of sucking all of the oxygen out of episodes that might not have been great, but could probably have been passable.

It’s too bad, because when the camera tears itself away from Billy Russo’s scarred-but-not-that-scarred face, it often lands on some pretty gripping fight scenes, and solid filmmaking in general. An early episode is particularly excellent, spending much of its runtime locked inside a police station with Castle, the kid, and a savvy Sheriff wary of both as they endure a ceaseless assault from outside forces, and that one in particular uses lots of the crayons in the violence Crayola box. Director Jeremy Webb shoots it at times like a tense, slow-moving western, at others a roomy thriller; he carefully frames shots so that the station feels at times like a safe haven, at others like an isolated death trap. When Castle finally leaves to deal with the problem, as you know he must, the camera stalks the woods as matter-of-factly as the man who kills his way through them. It’s a taut, thoughtful affair, quietly stylish, and brutal without glorying in its brutality.

Coincidentally, most of those descriptors are also words I’d apply to Bernthal (maybe not quietly stylish—the costumes, by Lorraine Z. Calvert, are terrific, but Castle’s not exactly a fashion plate). The best things about “The Punisher” in both its seasons are often reflected in his performance. But Bernthal plays Castle as a man who feels doomed to repeat the same brutal cycle over and over again, convinced that there’s only one thing he’s good for, and that, sadly, is also true of the second season of this series: repetitive, bleak, and unwilling to admit that it might be capable of doing anything new. 

Full season screened for review. 

from All Content http://bit.ly/2QV5Fpu