#Amanzi

[ryansultimatefitness]

[skinskisurf]

[skulblakasaphira]

Base by Furvilla. Colors by Reyyon. Amanzi by me.

[the-mirage-forest]

Wielder lineup part 1! I apparently never posted this so woops, sorted by age order (Not physical age, literal age)

Clip art & basic lore below the cut because I know this is far too wide and not tumblr friendly, more detailed lore is linked in my intro post

SCURO SELWYN WELLS

The first Mirage Wielder and the Wielder of Darkness, Scuro is the only wielder to be directly blood related to Saturn, as Saturn became lonely after the Starborn moved out and created a child (clone) of himself so as to not be so lonely. You wouldn't really guess this, as many millennia ago, Scuro struck a deal with the Blue Xiilune and traded their position as the Wielder of Magic, damaging the zotura (An artifact that turns normal people into Wielders) for magic but also turning them into a strange gooey mass with no memories of their former self. They're very childish and cheerful otherwise.

SHI & DEATH WELLS

The 2nd eldest Wielder and the only one to hail from Earth, Shi is unique because his Zotura can actually think and speak in mortal terms, but is kind of a sassy, very-literal tool. As the Wielder of Death, him and his Zotura bicker very often on how to treat the subject, having never quite reached an agreement.

Shi himself is very older-brother-esque, placing a high priority on his family, responsible, mature, if a bit stuck-up, stubborn, judgemental, and "I'm too old to be engaging in KIDDY stuff, that's cringe." (He is very cringe)

JINI WELLS

You can expect the Wielder of The Undead to be a bit strange, and you would be vastly underestimating Jini. She was originally a poor child working on a factory, where she stumbled upon the Undead Zotura via it getting stuck in a machine, and its power causing it to explode the entire factory. The Zotura would haphazardly put Jini back together, but she was never quite the same after her wielder-ification, being a bit quiet, creepy, kooky, and "no thoughts, head empty." Rest assured though, Jini can still be a good sibling, if a bit morbid at times.

AMANZI WELLS

A bit concerning that this is the 3rd wielder in a row who's undead, but Amanzi serves as a grim reminder of how cruel the ocean can be. He was once part of a sea-monster hunting ship, but his entire crew was attacked and eaten by said sea monsters. Bitter, he became a poltergeist, one that lost itself to the violence and didn't come back until the Water Zotura found its way into the sea. After becoming a Wielder, Amanzi chilled out, becoming calmer, lazier, and friendly. If he's near the species of monster that ate him however, he becomes skittish, violent, and flighty. If it gets worse, there's a good chance he might revert to his poltergeist form.

FLACARA WELLS

Flacara was obsessed with the Fire Zotura the moment she heard about it, researching and pouring over it for hours, convinced that it was just for her and that its power was far better than what her family could offer. One night, her obsession grew so great and her isolation so bad that she blew up on her family, running off to find the Zotura. She did find it, and it chose her, but she soon began to regret how she treated her family, especially after finding out being a Mirage Wielder was more familial than told.

She's extremely lonely, bitter about her own isolation and takes it out on her siblings, making them stay away from her more. Flacara deeply wants friends and to mend her relationships with her siblings, but finds herself too anxious & ashamed to try communicating. Recently, she's become very taken to the internet, making online friends who are equally as socially inept as her, and Flacara's personally trying to convince herself that the internet is all she needs for friends.

SHIMBER WELLS

Before Shimber became the Wielder of Wind, he was bullied immensely for his like of a certain fantasy boardgame (But The Mirage's version of it), and no one at school was willing to play with the Childish Annoying Kid. One day, a group of older classmates decide to trick Shimber into jumping down a hole, with the promise that they would play with him if he did it. They, of course, abandoned him the moment Shimber got stuck, leaving a poor child lost, injured, stuck, and alone. But as fate would have it, a strange, four-legged figure would happen upon Shimber all alone, and tossed a strange object down the pit.

Shimber is the embodiment of a middle child, he's constantly forgotten about, people find him annoying, a bit too loud and high-energy, and he still can't get many of his siblings to play with him. He seems attached to Flacara though, and she seems to tolerate him, oddly enough.

[decaf-mother]

"Life Can Be Beautiful"

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Part 2

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Alec 'Everest' Amanzi x F!Reader x Aiden 'Vortex' Dunbar

Rookie|Y/N

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Warnings: Unrealistic, Fluff, OCs x Reader, Love Triangle, Slight Angst, Injury, Violence, Death (No main characters die)

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You were struggling to get the hang of a certain device, it kept crackling and popping and you couldn't get signal and nothing was working.

Groaning your eyes landed on Jaws who the whole time was just watching you with an extremely unimpressed expression- letting you struggle and offering no help.

"Are you serious-? What am I supposed to do with this thing?"

Over time you learned you don't have to fear the man, even sometimes sassing him which earned an intense stare down. He doesn't really speak much either.

He let out a low sigh and came towards you which made you freeze up like a deer caught in headlights- this is it. This is how you die.

He snatched the small device from your hands and demonstrated how to use it- oh... Oh he's actually helping you?

"Like this, Rookie."

His voice is deep with a lot of gravel to it, low and rumbling like the oceans depths. Eyes boring into you as he handed it back.

"Thanks..."

"Just don't fuck it up again."

And he's back to normal.... Walking off leaving you to yourself.

••

You were trudging through the woods close behind Vortex, occasionally hitting your head on some tree limbs and shuffling through bushes.

"Right up here!"

He called out and next thing you knew you were stood beside him up on a cliff, the view was absolutely stunning. You could see for miles from up here, the trees and even a lake out in the distance.

He was right... This was worth it.

He seated himself near the edge and patted the spot beside him, urging you to rest as well and just listen to the sound of the breeze.

After a few moments the silence was broken.

"Do you know why I really brought you here?"

"No..."

He glanced over towards you while leaning back slightly, it was hard not to notice how the sun cast a beautiful glow along his skin, muscles flexing slightly as his palms flattened against the ground.

"Because I see how stressed you are all the time... Trust me- I get it but... You only live once. Sometimes we need to just get out and enjoy things."

Eyes settling back onto the horizon.

"It's easy to let it all wrap you up and bury you... But life can be beautiful too and you don't want to miss it. I could go at any moment- especially in this line of work so... I experience everything while I can."

You stared off into the distance listening to him as he spoke, he's not entirely wrong in the slightest. Life is beautiful...

Drowning in the pits of it all wasn't an option. He wanted to show you that you don't have to struggle all the time worrying about tomorrow. It's okay to let go.

He's so vibrant it's like drowning in sunshine whenever you're near him. He knows what it's like to struggle... It's okay. It will be okay.

He looked to you again and suddenly a burst of laughter from him startled you slightly.

"Sorry sorry.... It's just uh... You have a leaf in your hair."

He raised his hand and motioned towards your hair, making no moves to get any closer until he got your okay.

"May I?"

"Yeah..."

With your permission he shuffled over to you and began carefully untangling the leaf from your hair. He was so close now you could truly admire his face, the way his freckles decorated his skin like stars in the night sky.

There was even a small scar at the edge of his bottom lip you hadn't noticed before. Those green eyes of his were so- focused right now. He was trying really hard to not pull your hair.

Suddenly his gaze met yours rather than what he had been doing, seeming to acknowledge how close he was he moved back.

Flashing a bright smile he waved the leaf in front of your face in victory.

"Got it!!!"

"Thank you."

You couldn't help but chuckle a bit... Though... Why did you enjoy having him so close?

Why did you want him to be near you like that again?

••

Alone with Everest with the distant sound of gun fire, you could still feel the burn on your skin from nearly getting blasted by a grenade.

Your back pressed to the wall you sucked in a few deep breaths, keeping it steady and staying focused. It was muffled background noise hearing Everest trying desperately to call in to Vortex.

Please answer.

A soft sigh as you relaxed into him- it strangely didn't feel abnormal to be close to the giant of a man. He let out a low and soft hum and fidgeted with his radio.

Eyes glancing over you- your gaze lifted to meet his. It was incredible how a man so gentle and warm could be so dangerous.

His boots were stained crimson- you first hand got a view of him ruthlessly stomping a guy's face in. The weight and strength of him rendering the man to nothing... Unrecognizable crushed flesh.

Built like a mountain- sturdy and unmoving. Serene yet brutal. He can both be the one to shield you from all danger and the one who crushes any who test him beneath his feet.

"Are you sure you're okay?"

Soft towards you though... Luring you into his warmth.

"I will be."

A quiet chuckle escaped you and he simply shook his head. Your thoughts traced back to Vortex and how you all had been separated earlier... Hopefully him, Grace and Jaws were okay.

'Life can be beautiful too.'

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{Yes I'm forcing y'all to interact with Jaws as well. He will be your friend whether he likes it or not LMAO}

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{@sofasoap @scar-crossedlvrs @a-small-writer-in-a-big-world @blingblong55 @a-world-with0ut-dr34ms }

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{More Content}

[desswright29]

Intomba: Young Love

A/N: Hey Yaw! I know I been gone but I been busy. But I’m here now and I come baring gifts lol. For some reason this story is really close to my heart. Like I LOVE reader and Shuri! I combined my love for Angst with my love for a pretty love story and I hope you guys love it as much as I’m enjoying writing it.

Word Count: 9.6k

Pairing: Shuri/Reader

Contains: Friends to lovers, underage kissing, Love story, Angst, Struggle, Prison Shuri, manipulation, No smut for now this isn’t a smit heavy fic. There will be but I just wanted to write a story.

“Oh,God! Oh My God! I can’t believe it!” Bound to her wooden floors, her eyes locked onto mine. Stunned I should guess. Was it from my hardened appearance, or did my presence in general offend? I couldn’t have known. As our gazes lingered upon eachothers, I couldn’t help but notice after all these years, her eyes were still filled with a certain purity, guiltlessness, innocence. A simplicity, that I hadn’t been blessed to be in the presence of for a long time. Eight years to be exact. I couldn’t help but feel unworthy of it’s presence. Breaking our stare, I look down at my feet as they shuffle from side to side. Self-consciousness trickling through my veins as I continue to feel her gaze.

“I-I know I didn’t call. I didn’t have a number, only this address. I could find somewhere el-“

My body froze as I suddenly felt her body come in contact with mine. Rushing into me, she throws her arms around my neck. She trembled against me, and my eyes shut tight. The warmth of her embrace sending shock waves to my system. My arms remaining at my sides my mind not quite computing how to engage with the softness of this embrace. As my eyes remain shut I feel her pull away and soon after, fingertips gently caress each my cheeks. Slowly sliding from my cheeks, down my neck, and down my arms. She traced the art that now shadowed my caffeinated skin. “It’s really you.” The words pour softly from her lips, and I open my eyes slowly looking down at her lovingly.

 “I’m not so sure about that.” I whisper, my eyes glazing over allowing her to continue surveying me as we stand in her doorway. Those eyes, they lift from my arms back up to my own, brows furrowing as she searches for meaning. I can spot the exact moment she finds it. Grabbing my hand, she lightly tugs at my arm guiding me inside of the small apartment. Once the door closes behind us, her arms wrap around me once again.

I grip onto her, hands shaking as they grip onto her waist. I can feel the dam about to break. But, She still knew me. She could feel it, smell it on me. Her hand gently rubbed my back. “It’s ok. You’re safe now Shuri.” And with no urge to fight,I close my eyes allowing the tears to flow as I breath her in, head buried into her neck. It hits like a wave, my body shaking with sobs as my knees went weak, and we sank to the floor. “I’m sorry Shuri. I’m so sorry this happened to you.” She sits in the center of the floor, my head on her bossom as her hands delicately stroke the top of my head; allowing me to release emotions that hadn’t been safe for me to release for eight years of my life. 

And that’s who she was to me. My Amanzi, My water. When life would suck me dry. I ran to her and she replenished me.

I’m sorry. I don’t believe I’ve properly introduced myself. I’m Shuri. Now a days they call me Qamata. But, we’ll get into that later. I should explain what’s happening here. As i’m sure you’ve guessed, I’d just been released from prison, for what had supposed to have been a ten year bid. I got out in eight on good behavior. I was just a kid when I went in. 18. And there I was at 26 able to carry everything I owned in a paper trash bag. I remember feeling low. The equivalent of garbage. Cast away.

However, I wasn’t the delinquent youth that I’m sure you all are picturing. Far from it. I was top of my class. Dual enrollment. I’d graduated highschool at 17 as valedictorian, and having already secured a bachelors degree from the most prestigious university in Wakanda; where I would’ve finished out my education in Network engineering and computer science, had everything gone the way it was supposed to. But, Bast did it not. At a point in time I despised this life that I chose. It had taken the person I loved most in the world away from me. My brother.

At a point in time my father was the most feared man in the place we call The Bricks. His name was T’Chaka, they called him Uthixo. God Father. Pretty self-explanatory. He peddled his poisonous products to our community without remorse. Not a single regret. He was merciless, cold. So much so that he’d killed his own brother in cold blood after finding out that he was consorting with the enemy. Turned out my uncle N’Jobu, had been being held captive. Working for them under the pretense that his families lives would be taken. My father knew this. He still killed him, stating that N’Jobu was a liability. That was my father. His carelessness eventually cost him and my brother their lives. They were killed the same day. Their bodies riddled with bullets. My father and brother dangled from light poles on display like trophies. 

T’Challa, my brother, he didn’t deserve it. He hadn’t wanted that life. And neither did I. My mother, myself, and my sister were exiled in a way. Shunned into dilapidated buildings struggling to make ends meet. My mother fell sick, and my sister was useless. She sold her body, and the proceeds went to her poisonous habit. She’d had three children since then that ended up mostly under the care of my mother. So as soon as I was of age I began to work in the mines. It was hard back breaking work for anyone, especially a teenage girl. But, it was my only option. My name. My Fathers name preceded me wherever I went. I worked hard to turn it around. And I began to succeed. 

I am a certified Genius. If anybody was going to get us out of The Bricks. It would be me. But,  Love. Love makes us silly, Ngaba akunjalo (Does it not)? I took one look at that pretty chocolate skin. Those big Doe eyes, and that big gravity defying hair and fell into a deep bottomless pit of eternal love….In love with you Sthandwa Sami. The girl who saw me hoarding my food from the cafeteria to take to my niece and nephews; even though I myself was by every definition of the word starving. So you started packing me a lunch everyday. Making me eat it infront of you. Stubborn Haha. The only person in the world who could tell me what to do. If only I’d known that that was only the begining of the things you’d be to me.

In all of my life, there were only two constants. Tragedy. And You. I remember the day everything changed. The day I knew I was in love with you.

Your buttery brown skin saturated with the suns rays blessed Shuri’s vision. Sitting across from her, a beauty that had changed the trajectory of her exsistence. Physically, you were a goddess to young Shuri, yes. It was apparent in the way she incessantly stole glances. Bast’s light shining on you making your skin, the shade of nutmeg, gleam like pyrite stone. Eyes like buttered chocolate, swirled with caramel crescent moons. Your juicy lips appearing as though they’re dripping in manuka honey. Big curls sat atop your head like a crown. Unapologetically kinky, defying earths gravity. 

However, it was more than tangible for Shuri. Deeper than the eyes would meet. Your beauty was the flower be-speckled in the thin light of dawn. But, it was also the volunteer in a soup kitchen on a holiday missing their own family meal. It was majesty and self-sacrifice, it was all of the wonders of the natural world and our spiritual wholeness. It was the embodiment of the love God had for her people. For who are we to be blessed to walk amongst such an ethereal beauty. 

“Shuri? Shuri!?” Shuri was startled out of her thoughts, sitting up straight in her seat. The pretty girl that had her transfixed, now speaking to her. She cleared her throat trying to play it cool.

“Yea? What’s up?” Scratching the back of her head, she looked down at the books infront of her, trying to avoid eye contact. Her heart heart rate was excelerated, and her face heated, she’d been caught.

“You’re not paying attention.” Finally, her eyes raise. Looking into deep brown orbs she could so easily get lost in. So beautiful. 

“Yo. I was listening.” She spoke up defensively slouching back against her chair. Mirroring her actions from across the table, you cross your arms across your chest, squinting your eyes at your friend, cocking your head to the side. 

“What did I just say, Shuri?” Shuri’s lower lip disappears between her teeth as she tries to swallow a smile. Her eyebrows raise, and her eyes shift from side to side. Your eyes narrow as the smile broke across her face, her eyes turning apologetic.

“I’m sorry.” She chuckles. Rolling your eyes,  you suck your teeth quickly picking up and throwing it across the table at her. She catches it effortlessly. “A pencil?” Her eyes widen in faux shock. “You’re really trying to hurt me.” She says hand coming up to clutch her chest dramatically before a smirk curled her pretty lips.

“Yea, because you’re supposed to be helping me, but you keep zoning out!” Your face scrunches up in frustration. Though you couldn’t help but to admire how cute and dramatic Shuri was. With her perfectly chisled face, pretty lips, and perfect smile. Your tummy tingled a bit as the two of you seemed to get lost in eachothers gaze. 

“Shhh!” Shuri’s attention was immediately grabbed by the sound. Her gaze snapping to a young man staring at you two his annoyance apparent, and so was Shuri’s. He’d interrupted a moment of rarity between the two of you everyone knew that Shuri’s annoyance wan much more dangerous than the average persons. The smile was still plastered on her face, her bottom lip now resting between her teeth. You see her glance your way out of the corners of her eyes and you shake your head. 

“Shuri..” She turns to you fully throwing her hands up in defense. 

“I’m not going to bother him Y/n. He’s absolutely correct. We should act like we have home training? We’re in a library. We should conduct ourselves properly. Yea?” Knowing better, your brow raises a frown distorting your face.

Shuri leans back in her seat a genuine smile plastered on her face, before her gaze returns to the boy.

“He’s safe Amanzi. However, for future references. It’d behoove you to watch your tone when you speak to her.” Suddenly her tone turned serious, eyes steadfast on him, the smirk on her face leisurely becoming a grimace. The boy shifts in his seat clearly uncomfortably. Shuri turned in her chair hunching over placing her elbows to her knees only deepening the stare staring a hole into the side of his face. Quickly closing his books, shoving them into his back pack, he scurries off to find a safer table. 

“Ah maaaann! Are you leaving? Don’t goo!” She called after him sarcastically. 

“He didn’t even say anything. Why’d you do that?” You chastise her.

“Yea he did. Remember? He said Shh. And it’s not what he said it was the maliciousness

in his tone.” A malicious grin spread across her face.

“Malicious- Girl.” You roll your eyes as laughter erupts from her throat. “We’re sorry!” You call after the boy.”

“Speak for yourself, thando” She replies. 

You look at her like she’s crazy as she shrugs her non chalance. 

“Anyway Shuri. If you’ve had enough of being a bully, could you please help me with this fucking calculus I only made it into this class because of you.” 

Shuri’s outdated Kimoyo beads buzz against her wrist and another apologetic look crossed her face. You release an exasperated sigh, slouching down into your chair. 

“Put your lip up. It’ll only take a second.” 

“Khawulezisa!! (Hurry up)” You say. Shuri’s eyes roll to the back of her head as she see’s the holorgraphic name that appears. With great hesitance she answers the call.

“Challan, I’m at the library.” She answers, irritation seeping from her pores.

“Your Umama, is in the hospital. My kids were unattended for 3 hours.” Shuri’s heart drops into her stomach, immediately sitting up straight in her seat. Concern instantly crosses your face your back also straightening. 

“What are you talking about?” Shuri could feel her heart racing in all of her pulse points while she waited for her sister to give her more details. 

“Some complication with the cancer. I don’t fucking know. She’s good, but the kids haven’t eaten all day!” Shuri could feel her body began to heat up with rage. 

“ChaCha! Feed them! They’re your kids! I don’t have time for this shit! What hospital did they take mother too?” A long suck of the teeth comes from the other end of the call and Shuri’s jaw clenches.

“What’s going on?” You mouth from across the table, and Shuri holds up a finger. 

“If I had something to feed them with you think I’d be talking to you about it!” Shuri’s shut tightly as she counts backwards from 10 to try and calm herself.

“I don’t have any money Cha. Tell me where they took my mother.” She reiterated, rubbing a hand down her face, slouching against her chair once again. Your eyes never leave her watching her every movement. 

“You’re lying. You always have money.”

“I have a job Cha…You should try one. I’m only 16. Im not a fucking millionaire. I’m making enough for bills, and food for me and mother. We’re barely scraping by with that. For some inexplicable reason, I’m still waiting for you to let me know where they took my mother Cha, I’m loosing patience.”

“She’s at General…You don’t care about your nephews and niece eating?”

“Just stay at the hospital. I’ll get them something when I get there.”  Shuri hangs up in her face. Standing to her feet, and you begin stuffing your belongings into your book bag hurriedly. Shuri’s eyebrows furrow as she watches you. 

“What are you doing?” You look up at her like it was the most obvious thing in the world. 

“Coming with you to the hospital. Duh.” 

“No. You need to stay here and finish studying. You’re exam is tomorrow.” Your head jerks back a look of offense taking over your face.

“Shuri get your shit together so we can go. Don’t play with me.” You finish putting away your things, throwing your bag over your shoulder. 

“Stubborn.” Shuri huffed a small laugh, while doing as you said. You grab ahold of Shuri’s hand pulling her to the exit of the Library. The two of you running out, and hopping onto Shuri’s motorbike. You place on the extra helmet she always kept for you, and hold tightly to her waist before she takes off. 

“Umama?” She speaks softly stepping quietly into the hospital room, hand in hand with you, not wanting to interrupt her if she was resting.

“Come on in baby. Im awake.” Ramonda announces her eyes lighting up at the sight of You and Shuri. 

There was once a time in her life when her mother stood so tall, so strong. Graceful and elegant. Now she lie weak and frail. It rocked Shuri to her core everytime her eyes rested on her mother for too long. 

“Umakazi! Umakazi!” The pitter patter of little feet followed the sound of little voices as they came crashing into their aunt, hugging onto her legs as she lowered herself wrapping them all into her embrace. You smile as you walk over to her mothers bed placing a gentle kiss to her cheek. 

“Y/n, it’s good to see you.” She says lightly squeezing your hand. 

“It’s good to see you too. I wish it was under better circumstances ofcourse. How are you?” A light smile lifting the corner of your lips. 

“Blessed, intombi entle.” The smile on your lips widen. She never let her spirits fall no matter the circumstance and that was admirable to you for all that she had been through.

“Bast you all get bigger everytime I see you! Look at you.” A warm smile lingers on your lips as you watch Shuri tickle and interrogate her neice and nephews about their day.

“She loves those babies.” Ramonda chuckles as she watches along with you. You nod 

“More than anyone, could truly understand.”

“Hey to you too sister.” Cha says sitting in the corner of the hospital room. Shuri looks up from the children only for a brief second. Still very off out from her and her sisters earlier conversation, but she chooses not to argue as of now. Instead she places a kiss to each child’s head and stands to her feet. 

“Hey Cha.” She says before heading over to her mother. Removing your hand from Ramonda’s grasp you step back allowing Shuri access to her mother.

Leaning over her mother, she places a gentle kiss to her foerhead, smoothing her hand over hair, “How are you feeling, mama?” Ramonda looks up at her daughter a weak smile passing over her lips. 

“I’m just fine little girl.” Shuri smirks. That was always her answer. 

“Yea. Well I’ll let your doctor tell me how true that is.”

“Don’t you go getting all worked up over me now. How are you?” She asked lifting her hand to Shuri’s cheek. 

“Worried mama.” Shuri whispers, eyes revealing the truth behind that statement. 

“I am ok. My dear, and there’s no need at all to be worried. You have all the strength you need to survive, and not to mention an abundance of knowledge. You are an Udaku. As much you want to renounce that name It holds alot of power. Every once in awhile you’ll need to tap into it.” Shuri didn’t like this conversation. She didn’t like it one bit. Her eyes searched her mothers face a since of dread washing over her.

“Mama? What’s happening what’s going on?”

“I need to head out it’s getting late. Shuri you got cash so the kids can eat?” Cha stands from her seat appearing eager to leave. Shuri stands to her full height, over Cha’s attitude. 

“You don’t see me talking to my mama?” Shuri’s face scrunches, and Cha folds her arms across her chest rolling her neck.

“Well like I informed you earlier. My children haven’t eaten all day. So I need to go and get them fed.” 

“And since you’re depending on ME to feed them it would be smart of you to wait until I finish talking to mother.” Shuri rebuts

“I don’t have time to wait for you.” Shuri chuckles.

“Oh I’m sorry, is the crack calling?”

“Shuri!” Both you and Ramonda interject reminding her of the presence of Cha’s children. 

The doctor enters the room, as Shuri and Cha grill each other from across the room.

“You must be Shuri.” A polite smile graced his face as he approached Shuri his hand outstretched. 

“Yes.” She says softly before taking his hand to shake. 

“Nice meeting you young lady. I am Doctor W’Kabi. There are a few things that I need to go over with you and your family. Is everyone in the room authorized to hear?” You stand to your feet.

“I’ll head out. Shuri how about you give me the money for the food and I take them downstairs to eat so you all can talk.” Shuri’s eyes soften at the sound of your voice. She nods reaching into her pocket to get her wallet. 

“Uh! Excuse you? I don’t know her Shuri! She’s not taking my kids anywhere!” Her eyes land on you looking you over with a condescending stare. 

“And I’m not giving YOU money. So it seems we’re at an empass here sister.” The tension growing thicker between the two siblings. Shuri’s eyes squinted, her legs slightly parting as she locked her fingers together at her hips. Cha’s nostrils flared as she looked back and forth between you two. 

“Girl fuck you.” You immediately step forward..

“Uh uh, that’s enough. You may not know me but I know that Shuri is constantly sacrificing to help you feed your own children and your not about to keep disrespecting her in front of me.” Cha smirks stepping forward. 

“Little girl, What do you think you’re gonna do?” Yoo step forward as well never being one to back down but Shuri immediately grabs your arm. 

“Chill.” She says pulling you behind her. “Cha, this is not a problem you want. Now Y/n is going to take the kids to get food Sonwe can talk to the doctor.” Turning around to face you, Shuri sees that your eyes were still set on her sister. She touched your cheek bringing you back to her. 

“Hey, calm down. Just handle this for me so I can find out what going on with my mother.” Your eyes finally land back on Shuri’s face as you calm down. You nod.

“I am. I got it. She’s just disrespectful as hell.” You say mumbling pulling yourself away from Shuri’s grasp and gathering the children. Shuri can’t help but smile a bit as she watches you leave the room. Knowing you would have much more to say. When all of the commotion was finally over Shuri brought her attention back to the doctor.

“I apologize for the disruption Doctor. You may continue.” Shuri looks over at her mother who had been abnormally quiet throughout the hostile exchange. She seemed dazed, just trying to keep herself awake. She turned back to the doctor needing to know what was going on.

“Yes.. Well.” Dr. W’Kabi says moving right along. “Earlier before your arrival we were discussing the current state of the cancer. Unfortunately, it has spread, and it’s becoming very aggressive, taking a major toll on her body. I’m sorry to say it’s only going to get worse from here.” It felt like a punch to the gut, and tears streamed from Shuri’s eyes.

“S-so what do we do? What do we have to do?” Shuri’s eyes glanced over the room. Challan remained steadfast in her spot almost looking as though this was all inconveniencing her. 

“We’ve discussed it being best that your mother goes into a hospice facility.” Shuri froze. Her world begining to feel as though it was crashing around her. 

“N-no, no, no. W-We can’t afford a facility.” Shuri says through her tears.

“There are low income options that are covered by the state th-“

“I know what you’re talking about, and I’m not letting my mother go there. They don’t give a fuck about those people!”

“Shuri..” Ramonda’s voice came out in a whisper behind her. Shuri turns to her mother.

“No mama. You’re not going there!”

“I-I’m sorry, young lady. Your mother has already allowed your sister to fill out the paper work.” Shuri’s head whipped around again. Confusion taking over her as she stared at the doctor in disbelief. She scanned the room once again her eyes like daggers landing on Cha. 

“You did what mama?” She whispered, addressing her mother as she grimaced at her sister. “Cha doesn’t give a fuck about you! You let her sign you into a death trap?!” Her voice now raised, trembling with all of her bubbling emotions.

“You know what. I’m sick of your shit Shuri! I’m the oldest, and I can damn well help take care of mama!”

“Bitch! Your brain is fucking fried you can’t even take care of your damn kids!”

“STOP IT!” Ramonda’s voice carries throughout the room, strong this time making them both freeze as they had a stand off in the middle of the room. 

“Doctor could you please give us a moment.” Dr. W’Kabi slightly bows his head as he steps out giving them space to talk.

“As long as the two of you are breathing. I don’t want to hear you disrespect eachother the way you have today. You’re treating one another like strangers and like it or not. The two of you are all you’ve got in this world. So you may not like eachother. But, you better figure out how to love. Do you understand me?” Both of the sisters held their poster. Looking the other over as though they were forever enemies. 

“I said do you understand me!” Her vice raises again and the two of them finally answer their mumbled agreement. 

“Challan step out.” Ramonda commands as Shuri’s nostrils flare, her breathing excelerated as she mugged her sister as she stormed from the room.

“Alright that’s enough Shuri.” Shuri snaps back around to her mother.

“Mama this is crazy!”

“What’s done is done. It’s my decision and I did what I had to do for you.”

“For me? This isn’t for me mama I need you. What am I supposed to do without y-“

“You’re gonna make it. Is what you’re going to do little girl.” Shuri shut her mouth. As the tears flow. 

“I ca-can’t mama. I can’t.” Ramonda’s own tears began to flow. 

“It’s time Shuri, and I need you to figure things out.”

“I don’t have anybody else. They’re gonna put me in the system.”

“No. Cha’s of age so I’ve allowed her to be placed as your legal guardian.” Shuri’s eye almost take over her face at this information.

“WHAT! Cha’s supposed to be my guardian and she’s hanging on to her kids by a thread!”

“Let me talk girl damnit….I wish that me and your father did better by all of you. I live in constant regret of the way the lifestyle we chose tore apart our family. What it did to my dear T’Challa.” Ramonda chokes up at the mention of Shuri’s brother who was killed along with her father fighting a senseless gang war. A tear fell from Shuri’s eyes. She missed her brother everyday. “ All of those late nights. The money. The power. And now I have nothing to give. Grief has made me sick in my body. I’ve held on this long for the two of you. Allowing Cha guardianship over you gives you time. And hopefully it will pull you closer again. You’ve been blessed with amazing gifts Shuri. Don’t let struggle over take you. Continue excelling in your studies and you’ll get all of you out of Brick District.”

“Ma- I”

“Shuri.. I’m not asking you. I need you to do this. I understand this is a lot to put on the shoulders of a teenaged girl and I hate that this is the only option. You need to focus. I need to know you hear what I’m saying.Take the curse from our families name.” Shuri looked at her mother her eyes clenching shut. This was it. She was her only way out. 

“Yes Umama.” She whispers. Ramonda lifts her hand again raising it to Shuri’s cheek. “I love you child. And I’m so sorry for the life your father and I chose. But, you’ll be better. You’ll be great. Promise me that.” Shuri’s eyes fluttered as she held back tears.

“Yes Mother. I promise.” Shuri says softly. 

Shuri leaned down. Placing a gentle kiss on her mothers cheek.

“Come see me as much as you can. I love you. But you’re not going to sit and sulk in this hospital with me any longer. They’ll be taking me shortly.” Shuri broke, she lay next to her mother a moment allowing her tears to fall as Ramonda comforted her. Rubbing her head as she snuggled into the crook of her neck.

“You’re going to be great girl. You’re going to change lives.“ Shuri lay there for a few more minutes before standing to her feet wiping away her tears. 

“I love you mama.” Ramonda smiles. 

“Go child. I’ll see you soon.” Shuri nods, slowly turning to walk out of her mothers room. 

“Oh Shuri?” She calls and Shuri turns once more. “Tell Y/n how you feel.” Shuri’s heart drops into her stomach. Her sexuality had never been a topic of conversation between her mother and her. But, she knew. Of course she knew. This causes a light smile to lift the corners of Shuri’s lips, before she exited her mothers room.

Your head quickly lifts, as the door opens. You stand from the bench that you’d been sitting in, approaching Shuri, concern etched into your face. Shuri takes in her surrounding.

“Where’s Cha and the kids?” The tone of her voice almost broke you. Though her head was held high as she walked out of the room. Her voice gave way to her pain.

“Cha came and snatched them up. So I just came back to wait for you.” You say softly. Shuri nods, as you step forward. 

“You ok?” Shuri just shakes her head, stepping forward into your arms. Her’s snaking around your waist, laying her forehead onto your shoulder, allowing her tears to flow. Silently, you wrap your arms around her shoulders lending your wordless comfort. 

“Cha signed mother into the counties hospice facility.” She whispered against your neck. Her tears soaking through your shirt. 

“What?” It comes out like breath, You were taken aback. Hospice? “Oh Bast. Shuri.” Your eyes welled as you rubbed gentle circles into her back. Her news struck a bit of fear within you. What now? What would happen to her? So many questions went through your mind but now wasn’t the time. You chose to continue lightly stroking her back as she wept into your shoulder. 

“I can feel you worrying through your fingertips Amanzi.” Shuri says, pulling herself up. Almost as though it was reflex you reached up placing your hand to her cheek flicking away her tears with your thumb.

“I’m sorry. I-I’m just. What’s going to happen to you?”  Shuri sighs her hand coming up to grip the wrist of your hand that cupped her cheek.

“Cha is now my legal guardian.” Your mouth drops.

“Cha? Cha? As in your sister that can’t take care of her own kids? How does that work? Are you going to move with her? What if- “

“Y/n.” She cuts you off with a finger beneath your chin. Her thumb gently pressing against your lips, before it slides down your soft lips. Your body immediately froze. The touch felt so much more intimate than she’d ever touched you before. Your eyes locked on to hers as she spoke to you. 

“I work. I’ll figure this out.” You let out a slightly shaky breath trying to cover up how much her touch had effected you. 

“Shuri you’re only sixteen. There’s only so much you can handle.” Shuri’s thumb now traced your lower lip and it seemed as though her eyes were focused there before her gaze finally met yours.

“I don’t have a choice.” She whispered.

Your eyes welled. No matter how unfair. She was right. This was her reality. No amount of feeling sorry, or worrying about her was going to change that fact. So you swallow your tears. Looking up at her still wrapped in her embrace.

“And you’ll never go through it alone.” That was a solemn promise that you would forever keep. Shuri’s heart heard it. She nodded slowly. Eyes never leaving yours. It was a silent agreement that you would remain beside her through the thick of it. Little did either of you know there was a pull inside of both of you. To seal your agreement with a kiss. However neither of you wanted to loose the other. And not knowing the others intent caused you both to step out of the intimate embrace. Clearing your throats awkwardly.  

“Uh, I should get you home.” You nod in agreement. 

“Yea.”  

The sun was begining to set as the two of you rode through the city. The two of you taking a short detour to Shuri’s so that she could give you notes for your exam tomorrow. The ride was quiet and peaceful. You held Shuri tight allowing her to process her thoughts. Once at her apartment building the two of you head up stairs. The trip was meant to be in and out, but Shuri would never allow you to be outside alone in her neighborhood. Though yours wasn’t the safest either, she’d never allow you to be hurt on her watch.

Unlocking the door to the apartment, You both step inside, and Shuri hits the the light switch….and nothing happens. Shuri flicks the switch back and forth a few times silently before her shoulders slumps. Her head drops and her eyes shut tightly. Before….

“Fuuuuck!” She hauls off punching the wall above the light switch several times. Her final straw for the day being reached. 

“I’m tired! I’m of this struggle shit!” You could see the emotional exhaustion take over her. Her body finally collapsing to the floor and down you went with her. Cradling her head against your bossom.

“I know”, was all you could give. Because after the today there wasn’t much comfort in words. Shuri had been through enough to break most adults. 

“You’re not alone Shuri. You’re not by yourself.” You whisper as you hold her rocking her in your arms. The two of you held that position. You hummed to her. Rubbing her head until you felt her breathing slow, her grip loosening around you. 

“I should get you home.” You hear her muffled words.

“I’m not going anywhere.” You immediately rebut. Shuri pulls herself away from you, shaking her head. 

“No. You need to get home. This is not your problem. I don’t have power or any food. I gave Cha my last few dollars for the kids. I’m tapped out. I’m going to take you home. Tomorrow I’ll see if I can get an advance at work or something. It’s only one night. I’ll figure it out.”

“You haven’t figured it out yet?” You ask.

 “I’m not leaving you here alone, and hungry in the dark.”

“And just how do you plan to pull that off. Your mother hates me and my family. You think she’s about to let you have a sleep over at my place.” Shuri chuckles sarcastically. “Anyway, I can’t keep letting you do this. These are my struggles y/n. Maintaining a friendship doesn’t require you taking on my burdens. I would never ask that of you.”

“You haven’t. I’m offering my back to help carry some of the weight Shuri. You can’t do this alone. You were hit with a lot today, and I couldn’t sleep at night knowing your here pretending you don’t have anyone else. I love you, and right now you don’t need to be alone. More than ever you need someone in your corner, and it’s important to me that I’m that person, So let me be.” Shuri’s heart skips a beat as she looks into your eyes, her lip trembling. After the city had shunned her and her family, you’d stepped up. Refusing to lump her into her fathers sins. You and your friendship meant the world to her. 

You stood to your feet reaching for her hand pulling her to her feet. 

“I’m going to call Nevaeh and tell her I’m going to tell mom I’m staying with her. I’ll get a few dollars from her and some food. We’re going to get some candles and batteried for flashlights and we’re gonna thug this out together. And you don’t have a choice.”

Another tear rolled down Shuri’s cheek as she silently nodded letting out a small exhale. You reach up wiping away the tear quickly before taking your hand in hers. 

“Let’s go.”

As of now there were so many words that Shuri wanted to say. So much gratitude she had that she wanted to spill over into you. She battled inside with it, and finally decided to settle on a simple. “Thank you.”

Shuri gets you home. Parking a block away so that noone notified your mother about who you’d been with. Their weren’t many parents who would be fond of their children befriending Uthixo’s daughter. So she steered clear of your mother. Not wanting to cause a riff in your home. So, you ran up to your apartment quickly to grab the things you’d need for the night, as Shuri sat waiting on her bike, under the disguise of the nights darkness.

Thunderous bass reached her ears before the brand new black escalade approaching her came into view. A long sigh escaped her lips. She rolled her eyes, taking off her helmet, swinging a leg over the front of her bike. She sat to the side elbows to knees…waiting.The truck slowly rolled to a stop in front of her. The window rolling down to a smile filled with gold. 

“What up lil cuz! I ain’t seen you around these parts in a minute. I thought y’all let them run y’all outta town.” He chuckles. Shuri’s face scrunches up in annoyance.

“N’jadaka.” Her voice was nonchalant. Demeanor calm, as she waited for her older cousin to state his business. 

“I can’t check up on family? We are still family. I know Unc didn’t give a fuck about that. But, I do. Y’all been straight? I’ve seen Cha around and she not lookin’ too good.” His eyes appeared concerned but the small smirk on his lips showed his true face. Shuri chuckled unamused.

“Funny…You think we don’t know you’re feeding her the shit that’s got her fucked up?” He finally allowed his smile to break free. 

“Ah man baby cuz…See that’s business. She was getting ahold to that shit before I came along. We both know that.” He took a break to take a long drag of a blunt sitting between two fingers. “You a genius and shit right. You know whether I was giving it to her or not she was gon’ find it. Might as well be family.”

In a way he was right. Cha had always been the type to end up in things she wasn’t supposed to. But, that was still no reason to allow her to indulge. Shuri decided to ignore his comments. Choosing silence, hoping that it would speed up this exchange. She wasn’t in the mood.

“Look lil cuz. I know you don’t trust me because of what your pops did to mine and all. Y’all think I’m out to get you and shit. It’s a valid fear.” Shuri chuckled once again now sliding off of her bike choosing to lean against. Shuri held no fear in her heart for N’Jadaka. “But, I want you to know there’s no hostility between you and me. You ain’t have shit to do with that. As a matter of fact with my status out here and your smarts. We could team up. Run the biggest most undetictable operation Brick District ever seen.” Shuri shakes her head a smirk on her face, leaning against her bike. 

“You do realize I’m 16 right?” 

“Yea. But you mature and shit, and you got heart lil nigga. You ain’t scared of shit. That’s the brilliance of it man. Nobody would suspect you. The genius girl trying to stay under the radar. Trying to denounce her fathers name. No one would ever believe you would get back into this shit.” 

“Because wouldn’t.” Shuri says matter of factly, crossing her arms over her chest and crossing her legs at the ankle. Killmonger scanned her. Taking note of her calm demeanor. Not an ounce of fear detected. He smirked. He admired that about Shuri. Young and fearless.

“Wouldn’t you though? I know y’all over there struggling. Your sister has a lot to say when she’s off a bean. You 16 working the fucking mines to keep food on the table. That ain’t no life for a child man.”

“But dealing is?” Shuri’s eyebrow raised as her voice went up an octave. “If you give so much of a fuck why not help us? You’ve got it right?”

“Nah, I don’t give shit for free. Family or not. You earn your keep. Your traitor ass daddy taught me that.” 

“Well, I am not my father.” N’jadaka took the moment to lean out of the window. Taking a slow drag, blowing smoke into Shuri’s face.

“Wrong lil cuz. You’re the most like your father. You can’t outrun that shit.” Staring into N’jadaka’s eyes, Shuri bit into her cheeks jaws clenching. Tension building in the loud silence.”

From the corner of her eye Shuri sees you rushing over your bag thrown over your shoulder. N’Jadaka’s eyes follow Shuri’s, a smile spreads across his face. 

“That’s you?” Shuri’s eyes cut over to him. Her face warming up slightly.

“What?” Taking notice he teases a bit more.

“That pretty little lady walking over this way. That your girl?” Suddenly the calm demeanor that Shuri wore earlier was becoming a bit less cool. 

“What are you talking about?” 

N’jadaka throws his head back laughing. He found it. A weakness. “Don’t play coy with me. I know you don’t think you give off you like boys vibes.” Shuri’s face flushed. 

“Kiss my ass.”

“She’s a lil cutie.” He chuckles as you approach.

“Hey.” You say to Shuri and Shuri only, as you walk up looking between the two. 

“Hey.” Shuri says grabbing her helmet. 

“Heeeeey.” Killmonger says a smile taking over his face. You stare at him face upturned in disapproval. He lets out a hardy laugh at this.

“Yea she’s the one for you lil cuz. Looks like you and your lil lady friend got somewhere to be. So I’ll let you go.” He smiles looking you over and then turns his attention back to Shuri. “Remember what we talked about. You know where to find me.” You and Shuri watch as he slowly drives away. 

“You ok?” You ask turning towards Shuri.

“Yea. I’m cool. Just N’jadaka being himself.”

“Well whatever that was stay away from it. I know Killmonger doesn’t want anything good from you.” Turning to look at you. Shuri bites her lip nodding her head. 

“Yea.” She whispers to herself. “Let’s go.”

The two of you now sat on the bed in Shuri’s room lit by candle light. Studying using a small lantern for light. You’d brung a small wireless speaker that kept a great charge. Soft music played as you two studied and ate the food and snacks you’d snuck from home. Shuri had to admit she was grateful that you’d stayed. With you with her, her struggle didn’t feel so much like struggle. You’d made the night pleasant. The two of you talking and laughing as though this was just a normal sleep over.

“Ok. I think I got it now. I feel confident that I can ace this test now.” Shuri’s eyes lit up as she smiled at you.

“You were always gonna ace the test. You know this stuff.” You smile back at her looking into her eyes.

“Yea.” You say softly. The two of you sat in silence for a moment as music played softly in the background. Shuri layed back in her bed. Closing her eyes her hands resting behind her head. She seemed content in the moment as you looked her over. You recognized that when you looked at Shuri. When you were around Shuri, something felt different. Shuri in the few years you’d know her had grown to be your best friend. However, something about the friendship the two of you had seemed like more. It was weighing heavily on your mind as you continue stealing slight glances at Shuri, and you couldn’t hold it anymore. 

“Shuri?” You say breaking the silence.  

“Hm?” She reply’s her eyes still closed.

“Do um wh-why…We never talk about crushes and stuff.” You say mentally face palming. Real smooth Y/n. Your heart was pounding and your palms started to sweat a bit. Shuri’s eyes slowly opened as she turned to face you hearing your nerves through the question. She sat up clearing her throat a bit her nerves picking up a bit as well. 

“W-what do you mean?” 

“I’m just saying that we’ve been friends for awhile, and we’ve never talk about people we like or anything. Is that weird?” Shuri is silent for a moment. Her mind reeling a bit. Where did this come from?

“Uh..I mean yea. I-I guess. Is that something you want to talk about with me?” Shuri’s heart was dropping into her stomach. The last thing she wanted was to have to talk to the girl she loved about some boy she was crushing on. But, she had to have seen this coming right. This was the cherry on top of a shitty day.

“I don’t know.” You whisper. “But we’re bestfriends, we should want to right?”

“I guess…So do you? Do you like someone?” Shuri didn’t want to know this in the slightest. 

“I-I think I do. I’m not sure.” Shuri felt her heart shatter. She nods and for some reason she as much as this conversation was breaking her she’d decided to continue. 

“W-who is he?” You shake your head.

“It’s a she.” Shuri’s back straightened her interest fully peaked now. A girl. You liked another girl? Shuri’s heart was now pounding.

“You like girls?” 

“I never really thought about it before. But, I do know I like her and it feels like it’s in more than a friendly way.” 

“Oh.” Shuri felt like she could cry. You liked girls and you still didn’t see her that way.

“What about you? Is their anyone who’s caught your eye?” Shuri sighs

“It wouldn’t really matter. It’s not like anyone would be interested in dating me around these parts. Maybe I’ll be more experienced when I go to college.” She says softly. You move a bit closer to her grabbing her hand.

“That’s what you really think? That noone is interested?” Shuri nods, she could feel herself falling into a pit. Feeling a bit more alone again. Knowing you were interested in women and yet she still had no chance. 

“There’s no one that you’ve been interested in though.” You press a bit. Shuri brings her gaze up studying your face. 

“Yea.” Her voice was soft, almost hesitant. “She’s perfect too. More beautiful than I could ever describe. But, like I said she isn’t interested.” A lump forms in your throat. 

“A girl? Y-you like girls too?” Shuri smirks slightly. “I’m not sure. But, I know I like her.” She says and the butterflies take over your belly as your gazes lock onto eachother. You don’t know what comes over you but, you can no longer hold your tongue. 

“I see the way you look at me Shuri.” She freezes. Heat over taking her body. 

“H-huh?”

“The long glances when you think I’m not looking. I see them.” Shuri’s hand begins to shake nervously. She’s left speechless. She has no idea what to say. So you continue. “I-If I’m the girl you’re talking about…I’d say I’m definietly interested. Because you’re who I’m talking about.” You swallow your nerves. Figuring it was now or never. Shuri’s jaw dropped, She felt as if a sudden jolt of electricity had coursed through her veins leaving her momentarily stunned.

She couldn’t lie and say she that wasn’t something she did. She could hardly consentrate around you. Ofcourse at one point or another you would’ve seen her. Now here you were under the glow of candlelight. Your pretty skin lit to perfection. Using those beautiful lips to tell her you felt the same and she couldn’t utter a word. 

“I only saw because when you weren’t looking I was stealing glances too. I guess you were too busy thinking no one wanted you to notice.” Shuri finally finds her voice though it comes out soft and breathy. The way her heart was pounding making it difficult for her to breath. 

“I-I wanted to s-say something. I just didn’t want to lose you. Y-you’re just so much more than a crush to me. I don’t know what I’d do without you. You entered my life at the lowest point. My family lost its protector and we were being shunned. Life as I’d known it was over. I thought I’d never know what it was like to love and be loved again. And then this pretty girl with big eyes, and big hair, that always smelled like a bakery came out of nowhere. Dried my tears, fed me, cared for me. The love you have for me gets me through. You rescued me Sthandwa sami. I couldn’t risk loosing you. I don’t even like thinking about a life without you.” 

Oh, to be loved. That was the day you felt it. The day you found out what it was to truly feel and be loved. Tears fell from your eyes. Now you were the one left speechless. Shuri reached up cupping your cheek in her hand wiping away your tears with her thumb.

“Y/n?..” Her voice gentle.

“Yes.” You breathe.

“Can I kiss you?” Your heart fluttered as you nod lightly. It was like a gravitational pull, the way your lips slowly found eachothers. A sweet innocent peck placed on one another’s lips. And then another, and then another, until your lips would not unglue. Shuri leaned back into the headboard and you slowly climb onto her lap as her arms snacked around your waist. 

And there the two of you found home.

Needing to breathe the two of you part looking into eachothers eyes cheeks warming as you break out into a giggle.

“Wow.” You say. Shuri smiles, her thumbs rubbed gentle circles into your sides as she looked up at you. 

“So…Um Would you like to be my girlfriend?” Shuri asked softly still a bit unsure. Still hardly believing this was happening. The smile on your face could’ve lit the night. 

“Of course I do.” Shuri bit her lip to contain her excitement. Leaning up to place another gentle kiss to your lips. 

“You have to promise me something.”

“Anything.” She says without an ounce of hesitation in her voice.

“I know you’ve been through a lot, I know life is doing a number on you even now. It’s made you have to mature much faster than the rest of us I know. There may not be much that I can do to make things easier for you. But, I can be here. I know one day we’re going to get out of the bricks. We’ll be happy living out our dreams. You’re so gifted I know you’ll have to leave at some point to bring evolution to the world. Even then, if we loose eachother along the way and the world you find brings you hard times, I’ll always be here.” You place your finger onto her chest where her heart thumped loudly. “Wherever I am in the world. No matter how shunned, or ostracized you feel. Know that I love you, not out of any obligation. Simply because I want to. Remember I’ll never be to far for you to come home to. My arms will always keep you safe and warm. Promise me you’ll remember that.”

You poured out your heart as tears streamed from both of your eyes. Her hands gripped tighter against your hips as she shook with emotion. There were no words she could be said to make you understand the security you’d given Shuri with your statement. All she could do was lean forward placing her lips to yours. Inside that kiss you felt her promise.

The two of you fell sound asleep in eachothers arms that night. Your hands pressed delicately pressed against eachother hearts. The next morning Shuri drops you off at school, sending you off with a light kiss and encouragement for your exam. She wouldn’t be going to school today she had to hustle up money to get her lights turned on at home. She went to her job working an early shift seeing if she could get a loan. They were willing but she could get it until the next week. She went home searching for anything of value to pawn. But their valuables had been taken by the police after her father had passed. She was hitting a dead end on all fronts. 

Shuri found herself riding aimlessly through The Bricks. Wind blowing through her shirt. Stress weighing heavily on her shoulders. As she rode she found herself traveling a familiar path. One she hadn’t been to since her father was alive. One she vowed to never step foot in again. Her bike came to a stop in front of a massive warehouse. She swore she’d never resort to this life. Now here she was tail tucked between her legs going back to the only life she’d known. She closed her eyes and let out a small breath before taking off her helmet and hopping off of her bike, making her way around the back of the building. She banged on the door hard 3 times, and soon after a latch opened and a pair of eyes appeared through the Judas hole. 

“What you need?”

“I’m here for N’jadaka.”

“Who dat?” Shuri rolled her eyes.

“You know who I’m talking about. I’m not calling him fucking Killmonger.” She hears laughter come from the other side of the door.

“Let her in Hemp.” The door opens and Shuri steps in. Topless women cooked dope and men counted racks of money. Flashes of her brother walking down the stairs with his infectious smile went through Shuri’s mind. Her mother strutting through the rows of women making sure the coke was perfectly distributed. Shuri’s eyes scanned over the building until they land on Killmonger. Visions of her father sitting dressed to the nines a cigar placed in between his lips. “You’re my prized possession intomba. I do this all for you.” He would say. She shook off the memories. Her gaze locking onto N’Jadaka’s who sat leaned back in the sitting area, a telling smile on his face. Shuri made her way over to him.

“Little cousin. Here so soon. How can I help you?” Shuri’s jaw clenched a bit. Angry with herself for being here. She stands there quietly. Her eyes looking ove all of Killmongers henchmen. He immediately got the hint. She wasn’t going to speak until they cleared area. He signaled for the men to leave and they all filed out. Shuri threw a glance over her shoulder, before turning her attention back towards him. 

“I need your help.” She says m, undertones of defeat in her voice. 

“Help? What kind of a help?” 

“I need a job…and a loan. I won’t beat around the bush. The mines isn’t cutting it. Mama’s in hospice and Cha’s useless. The lights are out in the apartment and I have to figure out how to keep up with the rent and utilities so they dont suspect I’m there alone, or I’m going into the system.” Her head drops as she bites into her cheeks. “And my girl..I don’t want her to be with a bum. She deserves the best and I want to be able to give it to her.” He leans forward his elbows settled on his knees, as he looks Shuri over. 

“Ah..young love. It’s a beautiful thing.” He says pulling out a blunt placing it to his lips before sparking it up. “Sounds like you’re in a bad way….You thought about this? This is really what you want to do?” She nods and speaks.

“I have conditions.” He smirks. 

“Ofcourse you do.” Shuri rolls her eyes in response.

“You gotta let me go after I graduate. I want out of all this the day of graduation. I just need this to stay on my feet for a couple of years. And I need whatever you have me do to be low profile.” 

N’jadaka nods understandingly. He stands and walks over to a safe entering the code. Once it’s opened he pulls out a stack of money, walking over to Shuri placing the money in her hand. 

“That’s twenty thousand. Take that as a welcome to the family business gift.” He says with a smirk. Shuri stared at the money in her hands. She hadn’t seen this much money at once in years. “What do I have to do for this?” N’Jadaka shakes his head aware of Shuri’s distrust. 

“I was serious about what I said yesterday. I don’t want you out on the corners. I would prefer that we were partners. That big brain of yours could make us some real money. So for the next two years I’d like for you to be here with me. Help me revamp my operation and graduation day you’re free to live your life.”

“So you want me to be your right hand?”

“Exactly.”

“I get 50/50.”

“Done”

“Minimum visibility.”

“Almost none exisistence.”

Shuri’s jaw clenches in thought as she took in her surroundings. “I’m not getting my hands dirty N’Jadaka. Business operations is my job. I tell you what to do, you pass it along. I come in weekdays when the sun sets and for emergency’s only. Deal?” Killmonger places out a hand to shake, and Shuri takes it.

“Deal lil Udaku. You’re quite the bargainer. I look forward to doing business with you. See you Monday.” Shuri nods. Placing the money into her jacket pockets. 

“See you Monday.”

I think back on that day often. Wondering just where would I be if I’d just toughed out the struggle for awhile. But, I didn’t. And that decision haunts me to this day.

That’s where it all began. The day I fell in love and simultaneously ruined my life.

[vio-lenceee]

a little gift to a friend @mageofpanic Tavero Amanzi, their half-drow wizard tav!

[mbembhele]

Ngahamba ekhaya ngimncane ngazi inhlonipho, ngabuya sengigugile ngazi inhluphekho.

Nyembezi zami zigcwele uthuli, zihlathi zami ziphihlika udaka.

Impilo yami? Ucwephe lephepha, ngine mfundo yeminyaknyaka kepha ulwazi lami luncane luyateketa. Ngilalele ngendlebe kwaze kwakhanya ilanga kanti kwakufanele ngilalele ngenhliziyo.

izandla zes'khathi azisafinyeleli umphefumulo udukile, indonga zidume kwazwakala, noma ngihleka kuvela ubala, sewasapa ezinkambeni amazinyo indoda.

Imizwa yami? ididekele, ime ndawonye ibindekile. ukube ngangazile ngabe ngavuma ukuba ingane kubaba kodwa ngakhetha ukuba ingane yezizwe.

ngakhetha inyuvesi ngafunda; yakhononda imizwa yakhihla es'kaShaka.

Sengihlala ngiyotyiwe, ngonyiwe, amanzi awasazigezi izithende zami, umphimbo wam', amakhala ami, amaphaphu ami, amaphupho ami, impuphu ekhaya, kugoqana unwele, esolwathamba ekwephuphu linethile.

Noma likhipha umkhov' etsheni kweyami inhliziyo likhithikile. ngigula okwangempela, kaze ngiyolitholaphi ikhambi? mhlawumbe ebhodleni, nginekeni ushevu - ngiphile. nginiken' ikhambi - ngife.

esami isono ngiyasazi, ukugijimisa ulwazi kodwa iqiniso ngalishiya ekhaya. mama, mama, uqinisile uqinisile, ngezenzo zami ngikubulale usaphila.

kungaphela izinkulungwane zeminyaka, ihlazo lami linomsindo okweqaqa. unembeza wami soze walifihla. noma izandla zeskhathi zingathi umzimba wami aw'mbozwe inhlabathi, ngizolivuma icala lam'.

[karisomk]

Attoye Fic- Amanzi okudanisa ((one shot))

[[ Training prompt with mutual pining with Attuma x Okoye.]] [[ I just wanted a excuse to see Attuma and Okoye hold hands. ]] Aneka smiled once seeing Okoye get her bag with her swimwear in it, though remained silent. 

Okoye lifted a brow but frowned, already slightly irritated about the snarky or prying comment she just knew that was coming from Aneka. 

"I've noticed you've been going swimming lately since that Shark Man has been coming around you more" Aneka mused while gathering her workout clothing from her locker. 

"I've always enjoyed swimming besides, it is a good method to relax your muscles after working out" Okoye countered with a side glance. 

" Right and he does not join you at all?" Aneka questioned though there was a hint of humor in her voice. 

Okoye shot a look and scoffed at Aneka who only laughed in response. 

"I refuse to allow that big blue hippo to come near me" she sneered.  Okoye did not deny that Attuma joined her but she did make him stay arm's length away from her. At least that's how it started. 

Aneka's cheshire like smile did not believe this for one bit. Okoye hated this to an extent, even if pride flickered threw her on how well her fellow Dora could read others. A conflicting sensation only surfaced when Attuma was involved. 

Okoye huffed, snatching up her bag, and stalked away from the young Dora. 

As Bast is her witness, she will never utter to Aneka how she was right. How she specifically picked up more swimming to see how long she could hold her breath. To see if she could carry weights underwater. 

She convinced herself this was training to know how to fight him there in the waters.

To admire. Her mind faintly whispered to her in a knowing tone. 

No, Bast. Absolutely not. 

Okoye all but slammed her bag on the bench in the dressing room on arrival to the pool area, her cheeks burning while she tried steadying her heart. All the ocean and areas in Talokan. And Attuma insisted he come here once finding she visited the freshwater pools.

She tried distracting herself by calculating just how much weight she should put in her vest today. Though her mind betrayed her, visions of  Attuma without his breathing mask and the true hue of bronze skin came to mind. Inky black locks flowed behind him effortlessly, the way his gills trembled while he swam around.

His mask no longer obscured the fact of just how much he smiled at her whenever she was near him. 

She was tempted to just leave the pool room locker room and just go to her home to swim in the river. Out of spite toward Aneka and Attuma at that moment. 

But even as she peeled herself off the blue vibranium armor suit,  Okoye knew that she will not do it. After a cold shower, she slipped on the blue tint mono tie swimwear. The blue matched the midnight angel suit in color on the top, as the bottom faded into black in a gradient pattern. The tension in her shoulders was released once she realized she was alone today. 

Okoye carried her weighted vest, ankle weights, and ball weights with her to the pool area. Setting them on a nearby bench to easily switch out. The ball weights were dropped into the deep side of the pool first to help her mimic rock running. Sitting on the edge of the pool on the deep side, she lowered her legs into the water with shaky sighs. No matter how much she did this, the first dip into cold waters was never welcomed. 

Her gaze flickered once hearing a door open, Attuma with a brown satchel over his shoulders came in. Okoye's dark brows slowly knitted together at the sight of him.  The fact that Attuma chose to constantly use this area and not the ocean would never cease to bother Okoye. 

"Warrior." He nodded in her direction, taking a moment to place his bag down, and began to remove his armor. His gaze never leaves hers in the process. 

"Attuma." she started to say, her own gaze following Attuma's hands for a moment. 

The way his hands slowed, taking off his pelts and boned armor to carefully lay on the bench. She could have sworn he was teasing her and it didn’t help that her gaze went to those muscular thighs and manhood that seemed to be so outlined even while he wore dark shorts. Okoye began to lower herself into the water, turning away from him the moment the heat sensation returned to her face. Slipping below the surface, Okoye closed her eyes briefly while lowering her self further into the deeper part of the pool. It was Shuri's idea to make the pool freshwater out of respect of the Talokanil anyway. But it had its benefits to the Dora. Burned less on the eyes and smelled better. 

Okoye opened her eyes slowly, her vision was blurry though she did see a large shadow swimming towards her. Once her vision adjusted, she watched Attuma swim effortlessly around her. Bronze skin, long flowing hair that made him look alluring. Making eye contact again, he flashed her a grin and pointed to the weighted ball she dropped into the pool eariler. Okoye didn't return his smile but did swim to the ball and began her slow run on the pool floor to the swallow part. 

Attuma used his legs mostly while swimming, propelling his body around akin to a fish. His regalia, his armor made him look so differently compared to the man before her now. The scowl he held in place was usually replaced with something Okoye could not put her finger on. Admiration perhaps?  

Okoye closed her eyes once more, if she didn't keep her concentration Attuma would slow her down. Cradling the weighted ball in her arms, she took another slow step and then another. 

Feeling a large hand on her shoulder made her snap on her eyes. She bared her teeth at Attuma who gave a look of disapproval and shook his head.  Slapping his hand away, she dropped the ball and began swimming to the surface which Attuma followed. 

"Okoye-" his voice raspy as he took in shallow breaths. Trying to breathe without his mask made his voice sound raspier than normal.

"Why are you bothering me?" She snapped between her own gasps of breaths. "Do you not have anything else better to do?" She growled while roughly rubbing the water from her eyes.

"I am not bothering you but simply relaxing here, but it seems you just happen to like to train here." Attuma huffed while rubbing water on his gills but this was a lie.  Even now, even as Attuma strained himself to stay above water he was a smart-ass back.

Okoye scoffed, turning to swim away from the other and storm out of the pool area. But Attuma grasped her arm.

"You will not build your endurance this way. Swimming pools can not replicate the resistance you feel in a river or an ocean.  More so running on the floor of the ocean like you are trying to do so now. " He explained quietly. 

"Let me teach you." Attuma said after a moment, ignoring Okoye's light glare. 

"I don't need your help." Okoye lightly pulled away from Attuma. Convincing herself to not be curious on how Attuma was somehow warm right now.

"Fine. You will continue to lose grip on these weird stone floors further hindering your progress. " Attuma said quietly before dunking himself underwater.  Okoye followed him with her gaze, not moving when he surfaced closer to her. His brawny shoulder brushing against her toned shoulder.

"You'll hurt your feet this way and the muscles of your legs." Attuma looked at her with hopefully eyes and smiled when he heard her sigh.

"Fine." Okoye said suddenly hoping this would cease Attuma’s pestering. 

"You will not regret this warrior, I assure you. And you'll enjoy it more than this fake place you surface dwellers call pools. "

"If you do not like this place then why do you come here?" Okoye questioned while turning away from him slightly.

"To see my warrior try her best to train like my people" He hummed. Attuma floated out of her reach before dunking himself once more.  Slicking his hair back he surfaced once again, "West of here there is a small beach and we can depart from there in the morning. "

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Okoye was never one to be late, always remaining punctual even with something as this with Attuma. She used her midnight angel suit to find the beach and took the brief alone time she had to ease out of it and cloak it with her kimoyo beads. Donning an all black bikini set with golden thread that outlined, she began stretching and practicing breathing techniques to help her retain as much air as she could later on.

Working through the tension in her thighs and back, Okoye’s movements slowed at the sensation of being watched. Looking into the clear waters, she glared at the head that was partially above water watching her.

“Keep that up and I’ll pelt you with rocks!” Okoye bellowed at Attuma.

The head instantly sunk below the surface, after a few moments Attuma slowly rose from the waters walking onto shore. This morning he did not have his hammerhead regalia and most of his armor was in his arms. Tilting his head at Okoye he gave a light chuckle, “I did not want to disturb you because you seemed to be enjoying yourself in the warmth of the sun” he said bluntly while allowing his gaze to go over her figure.

“My eyes are up here!”

“Mm,yes. I know , I see them.” he teased.

Okoye’s gaze went to the ground looking for the biggest rock she could find to throw at Attuma.

“Come, while the sun is rising and the waters are still calm, now would be a good time to start your practice here.” he said, placing his armor down only to move closer to the water. Begrudgingly Okoye followed suit, her arms still crossed over chest until the cold waters touched her ankles.

“Ah, Bast. It’s cold!” she exclaimed. Attuma offered his hand to her take, but did not lower it when she looked at his hand and then back out to the waters.

“Do not fear it.”

“I do not fear anything.” Okoye quickly countered.

Attuma turned to her, fully taking a step towards while he studied her face,“Have trust in me to watch you and be with you every step of the way today. I will not let anything come to harm you.“

Slowly Okoye took his hand,  the touch of his hand was warm compared to hers. She resisted the urge to press into his side while walking into the cold waters, which began to push against them the deeper they went. The way Attuma held her hand gently, only grasping her hand firmly when they dove under each wave to miss the current that could push them back to shore. Attuma explained that they would continue to wade out further into the shallow waters but stop close to the ledge that led out into the deep sea. There Okoye would find an accumulation of rocks, after picking one she would want to carry she would then make her trek back to shore underwater. Pushing against the current from below and the light pulls from the waves above her.

The only time Attuma released her hand was once both of them were near the seafloor and she picked her rock. He held the large oval shaped rock, and watched her swim to the surface once more for a breather only to dive back down to reach him. Attuma stayed close, watching intently as Okoye trekked forward against the current. Sand swirling around her feet with each step, her brows knitted while her gaze remained forward.

The light of the rising sun warmed the waters and made the surface shimmer, each passing wave casting light on them both. Attuma allowed himself to imagine just how Okoye would look if she was talokanil. How lovely her gills would look right now and just how fast she would be with her spear in the water. He had always thought the way she danced with her spear on land was beautiful, but to witness Okoye adapt to water made his heart soar more for her.

Once Okoye dropped the stone and began to ascend to the surface, Attuma was right behind her helping her reach the surface quickly.

“You did well for your first try, you almost made it half way to shore,” he said with a small grin.

Okoye took in small gasps and did not protest about Attuma holding onto her to keep her afloat. “I want to do one more” she finally said once catching her breath.

Attuma’s eyes burned with such pride while he nodded, “One more and we will rest afterwards.”

After Okoye caught her breath, the two dived back down to the start of the ledge to fetch another rock but this time Attuma grabbed one for himself to make the trekk with her to shore. (( Inspired by @mickimomo lore about Talokanil training and this photo of a surfer rocking running underwater.))

[sugarsong]

Next-Gen Adoptable: Princess Skystar x Zecora (Available)

$10 on PayPal

Name: Amanzi (“water” in Xhosa)

Gender: Female

Race: Hippogriff (prefers land)

Also, check out my Breed Charts to request custom pairings starting at $10:

[meringuecream7]

A Lovable Hummingbird in 100 Years || Chapter 13: A Beautiful Voice and a Mourning Death of the Wife

While George and his daughter Susie were waiting for Brenda’s news of good or bad, they let themselves know to come to the theater to check on her.

Today, the news is bad:

‘With her daughter’s other strategy of dancing, Brenda’s dream will still continue. However, in the hospital, her disease continued to spread inside her. Her dancing career by limbs is no longer constant.’

George looked at the newspaper in worry, while Susie’s eyes lit up with determination. She grabbed the money out of her pocket and declared, “Let’s go to the theater! Again.”

While they hopped out of the taxi, Susie skipped off to her mother’s room to talk to her. George saw the similar theater attendant and began to shake his hand with her.

“Good afternoon,” he said to her. “Now are you someone who is a friend to my wife?”

“Yes,” the theater attendant said to him, “when Brenda and I met at this theater here. She even encouraged me to dance with her. So I did. We make the happiest memories of dance.”

“I see,” George nodded.

“It’s really nice having your sister and her crew run in a band for Brenda’s voice acapella,” the theater attendant chuckled.

  “So it is,” George agreed.

  Then, the buzzer sounded. “That’s the show starting,” the theater attendant said as she led George to the audience. “You can now see your wife sing onstage.”

  Oh, goodie! George wanted to exclaim as he sat down on the free seats.

  “You’re in luck to see your beloved wife again,” said the theater attendant soothingly.

“And you’re in luck to see your dear friend again,” reassured George.

  Then, he saw Susie onstage. “Ladies and gentlemen,” she called. “I am Brenda’s daughter, Susie Amanzi, and today, my momma is going to do an acapella – which could mean dancing with your voice. So, without further ado, let's take this show on the road! Take it away, Momma!”

  She lightly pushed Brenda, who was in the wheelchair to the stage. George watched her and began to smile. He also saw his daughter and winked at her. Susie winked back at him too. Brenda began scatting and singing as the jazz music – from the Aviary Jazz Club – began playing. George loved his wife’s singing voice. Her crooning sounds beautiful, he thought to himself, the foggy clouds of his wife’s voice covering his own thoughts.

He began to become lost in his wife’s voice. It is indeed beautiful, he wanted to sigh.

Brenda continued scatting, singing, and vocalizing and George continued to listen to her voice.

The song finished. The audience applauded. Brenda smiled back down at them, especially her husband. George smiled back too. He looked at Susie and winked at her. Susie winked back at him too. She then pushed Brenda to the backstage. “Come on, now,” she said to her mother. “Let’s rest and calm down for your next show.”

George wanted to congratulate his wife for singing onstage in front of him, but he didn’t have the time. He collected Susie and left the theater.

When they reached home, Susie then began reading the newspaper. Then, she gasped in horror. “Daddy…” she whispered.

George ran to Susie, who was still terrified. “What is it, sweetheart?” he asked. “Is there something wrong?”

Susie grabbed her father’s arm with one hand and took out the money out of the piggy bank with the other. “Let’s visit my mother one last time!” she exclaimed, with tears in her eyes.

When the taxi reached the hospital, Susie dashed out of the taxi while George – who was holding the bouquet – followed her. The nurse saw Susie dash away and stopped her. “Where are you going?” she asked.

“To see my mother,” Susie requested. “Can you take us there?”

The nurse heard the word ‘us’ and tilted her head. “Do you have a supervisor?” she asked.

Susie nodded. “It’s my father,” she said. George ran to his daughter and carried her. “I’m her father,” he said to the nurse. “Take me to my wife, please.”

The nurse nodded and led George and Susie to a room where Brenda lost her voice. “This is her,” she said to them as she opened the door.

George walked to Brenda and sat down next to her. “Honey?” he said as Brenda weakly opened her eyes. “Are you okay?”

Brenda wasn’t able to speak at all. She’s wearing an oxygen mask. George set the bouquet on the table next to the top hat Brenda wore during her performances and then went back to Brenda with tears in his eyes as he lay his gloved hand on her cheek. “I’m going to miss you and love you forever,” he sobbed softly.

Brenda blinked slowly (which means that she could understand his tears). George smiled – with tears still in his eyes – and planted a kiss on his wife’s forehead. He then leaves the room and smiles at her. He then sees Susie, who also brought her mother a card – a get-well-soon card that is – and placed it onto the table along with the bouquet. George smiled and turned to the nurse. “Will my wife be able to dance again?” he asked. “Or will her life become ephemeral?”

The nurse shook her head. “Her life will be ephemeral,” she said, “which can also mean that she’ll lose her hopes and dreams.”

George blinked back his tears and whispered, “I will miss the memories I had with my wife.”

Susie went out of the room and said, “I luckily told Momma to dance in her head.”

George broke into tears. Susie broke down as well. Her father hugged her and the moment of tears began. The nurse – who watched them cry – also began to shed a single tear.

When they reached home – and it was nighttime, George kissed the picture of his wife in the same red dress and hat and placed it on his bedside table. Then, he heard a creak coming from the door. “Susie?” he asked. “What are you here so late?”

“I think that I miss Momma too,” she said as she climbed onto the bed and hugged her father.

“Buck up, dear,” he said softly to his daughter as he kissed her forehead. “Let’s just smile and think about your mother.”

Susie smiled, hugged BunBun, and they drifted off to sleep.

Prologue Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14

[fernpapst]

Carlotta Amanzi, toctoc, 2023

[adamsvanrhijn]

btw where did you get that blue swimming cossie with legs on? been looking for something like that for ages bc i am NOT shaving my immense 70s bush just to go to the beach

it is the tyr solid fusion 2 but there are others!! search for women's knee skin or kneesuit or legsuit wherever swimsuits are sold near u... you are going to see tech suits for hundreds of [currency unit] but that is not what you want. do not be discouraged there are other options

if you're looking in the USA, swim outlet is the best store, look for U12 compliant or sort price low to high to avoid the $500 ones

amanzi is an Australian brand with super cute but expensive to get shipped to the USA. but also it looks like they're having a sale right now 👀

+ men's jammers or square leg suits under or over a women's suit is an option too, for me i size ~2 sizes down for fit, but you will want a conservative back swimsuit for optimum cuteness if you wear it under so that the back of the shorts doesn't show, if you care about this

(also if you are like, a child prince and $500 united states dollars is a fine purchase for you, you still don't want a $500 suit bc they are high compression competition suits designed for racing and not comfortable for any other purpose)

[the-mirage-forest]

Some characters for thou

Here's Amanzi and Watawna! Watawna's been here before but I've barely mentioned Amanzi, Watawna's bio also has been slightly rewritten so I'll include both below the read more :)

Amanzi Unique among The Mirage wielders for being a ghost at the time of becoming a wielder himself, Amanzi is a good example of why the ocean isn’t a graceful thing. Standing 5’6”, around the physical age of 15, and born 9/15/???? meet the Wielder of The Waters. Formally titled Peleti.

Pre-Wielder Amanzi lived on a hunting ship, not just any hunting ship. A GEBD hunting ship, during a time where their baubles were popular and expensive, and the meat was valued. This led many ships to try and hunt the dangerous eels-including Amanzi and his crew. And on a calm sunny day, The Achira set off for what was to be the final time. 

Amanzi loved his crew, they taught him, they kept him, and they loved him back. He looked up to the second mate especially, who cared for Amanzi like he was their own kid. This second mate was known for wearing a glittery object around their neck. On one, chill, autumn night. A pod of GEBD’s approached the ship, without a warning. They began to tear and rip apart the ship and creman alike. It took a mere hour before they were all dead, and the ship at the bottom of the sea. 

Furious at having his life and others torn away from him in a matter of minutes, he became a ghost. A draugr out for revenge against the creatures that ended his perfect life, especially the one that ate the second mate. Right in front of him. Over the years, he killed every GEBD he came across. Even damaging the ships that hunted them, losing himself to the violence, and sight of his goal. He became rotten and disfigured, the coastal towns. Not knowing what he was and fearing him, they called him Peleti. 

This all came to a head many years after the sinking that nobody noticed, the ship and the bodies were still unrecovered. And Amanzi was still furious, a ship caught a gigantic, old, GEBD. Cutting it open, there was a partial skeleton with a glittery blue object around its neck. In an instant, the boat started to rock, splinter into pieces, the waves became rough, it started to storm. In a panic, the crew threw the skeleton, the bauble, and some parts of the fish into the water. The storm ceases, and there’s a few moments of silence. Before the water jolts, glows, and something is spat out onto the boat.

Moving on from that, Amanzi is a sassy fellow. But also a chill fellow, a very chill fellow. Drop something on his foot and he’s fine with it, but he also sometimes gets lazy. Greatly dislikes GEBDs, and regularly hunts them. His poltergeist/vengeful spirit origins DOES make him violent if pushed hard enough though. Though for the most part he spends his time basking in the sun, floating on the water. Generally being lazy.

Watawna

The “younger” of the two Mirage starborn, Watawna Carnelian-Auburn Wells is technically the 2nd-to-eldest sister to the Wielders despite not being one herself. Despite this, they still treat her more like an aunt figure. As she seems to have picked up on her father’s (Metaphorical) softer side.

7’2”, born a few milliseconds after her sister (Something that’s frequently fought about), Watawna spends her days as a pediatrician (focused on the magic side of things). She seems to have her interests drift from place to place and then loop right back around, unbeknownst to anyone. She was a poisoner for a short time, but quit because unlike her sister, she has a better moral code.

Watawna’s something of a kooky aunt figure, the type of person who collects shiny rocks, the type of person who’d get distracted by all the lost stuff they found while cleaning their room. Yes, she’s those types of people with a side of care and bubbliness. Probably intelligent, but really doesn’t act like it. Personally I think she’s a bit oblivious sometimes…but I’ve heard that if she does get mad she crawls along the walls/roof chasing people like a demon in an 80s earth horror movie. Sadly, I can’t say if this is true because it’s literally impossible to annoy her at all that it's annoying in itself

Being a starborn, she’s extremely powerful in her abilities. Most of her abilities makeup what we all know as Hollowlantern Magic. Just like regular Hollowlanterns, she also needs leaves to power said magic. 

The relationship between her and Tempest certainly isn’t tense, they may not act like it but they stick together through and through no matter what. It’s impossible to see one without the other nearby, although fights have certainly happened. Some leaving lots of damage and in some cases, casualties. Both are also of equal strength, although neither really show it. In fact at first glance it may seem more like Watawna is the weaker of the two siblings, but no matter how you cut it. They’re the same in their abilities.

Lives in a house with Tempest that’s nearby Saturn’s house, roughly 4 miles away.

[decaf-mother]

"Close Bonds"

-

Part 1 - Part 3

-

Alec 'Everest' Amanzi x F!Reader x Aiden 'Vortex' Dunbar

Rookie|Y/N

-

Warnings: Unrealistic, Fluff, OCs x Reader, Love Triangle, Bullying, Transphobia (Vortex is Trans)

-

You found yourself spending most of your time with Vortex and Everest, only occasionally interacting with the others that were around.

You quickly found that they were best friends, consistently sparring together, eating together and generally just hanging around one another. Today you were seated between them at the table, listening to Vortex ramble about a 'cool spot' he found.

"You have to come and see it!"

Everest hummed contentedly and shook his head.

"Last time I went to see something with you I had to hike for an hour through the woods. I'll pass."

"It's a great view though! You'll come with me later, right?"

It caught you by surprise when his gaze shifted to you instead, bright smile and pretty green eyes twinkling with hope. It made it really hard to say no... Maybe it'd be good to have a little adventure anyways.

"Fine but it better not be too far."

"It won't be and it'll be worth it! I promise!"

He sounded so chipper and sincere- shuffling slightly and Everest chuckled a bit.

"You two have fun. Don't go dragging her around though."

This lead to a bit of laughter from you as well, eyes flicking up to meet Everest's. So calm and gentle to the point it's easy to get lost in them, it's like his warmth could absorb you.

They were so different- one was a powerful whirlwind of energy that drags you out of your shell and bleeds into you with pure life. The other soothes you and allows your mind and everything to simply be at ease.

"Would you like to know how we first met?"

Everest offered a story- one of back when he first was introduced to Vortex.

"It was actually back when we were in highschool. After highschool we were separated for years and then as luck would have it- we both ended up here."

"Small world!"

Vortex chimed in.

-

Splash

Soda coated Everest's torso entirely and he stood there, sticky and dripping while the bullies simply laughed at him.

"The big freak won't even defend himself. What a coward."

His silence was loud- the laughter deafening as he took a step back and tried to simply walk away. Only for one of them to block his path.

"Where do you think you're going?"

Before Everest could respond the bully grabbed the back of his head and grunted in pain, a rock had been thrown at him.

"Fuck off chicken shit."

There stood a drastically short curly haired ginger who was quite filled with rage.

This of course did not set well and that's when the yelling between all of them started.

"You'll never be a guy- you realize that, right?!? You're a fucking freak-"

Before he could finish his sentence he was harshly flung to the ground, Everest standing over him now planting his boot firmly on his chest.

"Enough."

-

For some reason that story explains a lot about their dynamic. Smiling warmly at the two you finished eating and stood up.

"Got stuff to do... I'll see ya around."

"See ya."

"Bye!"

••

Slumping forward with a groan- you've been stressing over everything that needs to be done for hours. It was taking it's toll on your well being.

A soft knock forced you out of your head, dragging your body up from the chair to go answer it.

"Who is it?"

"It's me."

Opening the door slowly you peered up to see Everest, standing there with a mug of coffee in his hand... He got that specifically for you?

"May I come in?"

"Yeah... Of course."

He stepped in and set the mug down for you, eyes drifting to your face and taking in how exhausted you looked.

"You've been at this awhile. Take a break."

"I can't-"

"If you don't you'll burn yourself out. It's okay... Get some rest."

His tone wasn't rough like how most would regard you, yet still it was clear and unmoving. He wasn't going to let this go- he needed you to be alright.

He had noticed that you were over working yourself, taken note of all the little changes in your behavior.

And he's not just going to stand by while you burn your candle at both ends.

"Okay..."

-

{Hope y'all love them as much as I do. You guys are in a love triangle with best friends oops. LMAO}

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{@sofasoap @deadbranch @a-world-with0ut-dr34ms @a-small-writer-in-a-big-world @scar-crossedlvrs @blingblong55 }

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{More Content}

[desswright29]

Brick District (Prolouge)

Synopsis: To say life was rough for young Shuri would be an understatement. An only child to a Mother suffering from leukemia she had to figure out a way to survive very young. A job at the vibranium mines led her to you. Her Amanzi (water), from that moment on the two of you were attached at the hip. You did everything, and were even excepted into the most prestigious college in Wakanda together. That is until Shuri lands herself into some serious trouble, causing a series of unfortunate events. Will you be down for the ride?

A/n: Random idea. I hope you guys enjoy and let me know if you guys want more of Shuri and her Amanzi! ☺️

Hand on my heart I swear I made peace with the rain Peace with the rain Now I dance with the pain

Stepping inside the cold concrete room, the clanking of metal followed by a thundering slam followed behind you. Your heart beat rapidly against your sternum, fear weighing heavily on your shoulders. 

“Box 3!” The officer directed you sternly. Your eyes instantly scan the room for the number painted thick upon the concrete walls, until you spotted it approximately twelve steps ahead of you. 

One, two, three. Breathe, just breathe y/n. Six, seven, eight. You’re safe, the officers are here for your protection. Eleven, tweleeeve…thirteen. Damnit just one off. 

Anxiously, you sat in the chair infront of you, staring at the empty seat on the other side of the glass. Putting up a front of calm, your rhythmically bouncing leg, the traitor to your true feelings. Anxiety. A loud buzzing and a click snapped you out of your thoughts, your body literally jolting slightly out of your seat. 

Damnit girl get a grip. 

Two officers walk into the room, one holding the door as the other led out a line of inmates. Instinctively, your eyes trained on your hands, fiddling with your fingers, as the dragging of feet, and rattle of chains continued to pass you by. Until, it came to a stop. Beautifully veined hands with bruised knuckles, placed together by silver bracelets on each delicate wrist, entered your line of sight. Your gaze continue to trail up her body until they settled on her face. 

A soft gasp left your mouth. Contusions littered her beautiful face. But, the long cut right underneath the apple of her left cheek garnered the majority of your attention, her fuzzy braids were second on the list. She was always very well put together. Your heart ached seeing her this way. The officer removed the cuffs from her wrist, as she tried to stifle the look of agony on her face m, while she slowly attempted to sit. A lump formed in your throat as you blinked back tears. Reaching forward, she grabbed the phone and you followed her lead. Leaning forward onto the table in front of her, she placed her cut bottom lip into her mouth. Wetting it before looking up at you through hooded lids. 

“I thought I told you not to come here?” Words escaped you as you continued to stare, trying to find a way to speak without breaking. You had to be strong for her.

“Don’t look at me like that, bhabha.” You nervously avert your gaze, clearing your throat before speaking.

“You knew I was coming to see you regardless. I’ve always been a bit hard headed…..W-wha-“

“It’s prison y/n. Shit happens.” Irritation coated her words as she cleared her throat, slouching back into her chair.  “You shouldn’t be here. You have shit to do.”

“I had to lay eyes on you… make sure you’re alright. My bags are packed, I’m ready!” The corners of your mouth peeked upwards yet your eyes remained sad, as you attempt to bring some sort of light to the conversation. “Can’t find a box big enough to fit all my shoes though.” Chuckling nervously you search Shuri’s eyes. Looking for some of the light that she’d had outside of these walls, you were met simply with a darkness that ran to her core. Your friend was hurting, and there was nothing you could do.

“Hmph.” Her attempt at a laugh fell flat as her gaze lingered on the floor in front of her. “Have to have those shoes.” It looked as though it pained her to speak. Her hand rubbed absentmindedly at her side. Had she unzipped her jumpsuit and lifted her wife beater, you would’ve been met with a large black and purple bruise. “I’ll still take care of that while you’re in university. Don’t worry. I’ve got you.”

“Hey, you already know!’ And I’ll be fine. You just worry about being safe in here…please.” The elephant in the room began to stomp on your chest as you prepared to ask your next question, “how long?” 

“That’s how it’s been since we met mama. It won’t change because I’m in this shithole.” Shuri finally makes direct eye contact with you, and your stomach flips. Your gazes linger on eachother before Shuri speaks up again. “I took a plea. Minimum of four years since I don’t have any priors. I could probably cut some time with good behavior. 

“F-four years!” Your thoughts began a vicious attack on your nervous system, gnawing its way through your quivering lips. Four years without Shuri? What did that look like for you? 

“But you’ve never been in any trouble! You’re only eighteen for bast sake. Four!”

“Calm yourself. It’s light for everything they found on me when they got me.” For a moment, the two of you sat in silence. Twiddling your thumbs, not knowing what else to say.

“Bast, I-I’m going to miss you.” You finally broke the thick wall of tention building. “I’ll make sure to visit all the time, and-and I’ll write letters! Lots of them! And when you call…I’ll tell you everythi-“

"Hhayi. Do not come back here y/n. Im serious. You're on your way to the most prestigious University in our country. We worked hard for this. Write me. I'll call. But don't come back." She stared into your eyes intent with getting her point across.

“Fine, Aja.” You accompany your attitude with a swift eye roll. “…We were just… supposed to do this together, you know? I can’t imagine doing this with out you. Shit. I don’t even know if I’m capable.” You instantly regretted admitting what’s been bothering you about going to school. You two talked about this for years only for it to be snatched away just like that. You can’t even remember what life was like without Shuri, and you didn’t want to. 

Shuri’s tongue rolls over her bruised bottom lip, her brows furrowed reading you like a book as always. “Yo, what’s up? What did you really come here to say.” All the beating around the bush finally caught up to you. 

“I mean… I can always just start basics at the community college down the way.” The fiddling with your fingers begins yet again in an attempt to avoid Shuri’s dagger-like glare. “A-at least until you’re out of here, then we can figure out away to do this together.” 

“Fuck no! I’m not trying to hear that. You think Bishops Diocesan is going to ever allow me to step foot onto their campus after this!? We worked too hard for you to give it up? Why!?  So you can sit her and babysit me!?”

“Shuri! WE!! WE worked so hard, I-“ *holds in a sob* “…I can’t go, not without you. I’m not supposed to do this by myself.” 

“Hey!” Shuri spoke up, sitting up straight in her seat. Demanding your undivided attention. “Yiyeke (stop it), I taught you better than that mtwana. I fucked up. I got caught up and ruined my own future. MINE Y/N! Im not allowing you to ruin yours just so you can visit me in prison every other weekend. Life moves on and you need to flow with it. You’re stronger than you give yourself credit for. I’m not giving you a choice. You’ve got to do this. Live out our dream. For me.”

You could no longer control your tears. “This isn’t fair Shuri. Life’s never fair to you! We almost made it. We were almost out of the Mines, out of Brick district, and this bullshit happens! You deserve this more than me. You’re a fucking genius! We were so fucking close.” 

“Stop that! No more tears. Yooou made it baby. That’s enough for me. Don’t wait up for me. Live your life.” 

“Wrap it up! 5 minutes!” The guards yelled signaling that your time with the girl that you loved much more than either of you had ever had the chance to say, was coming to a close for the next four years. Now was the time.

“Shuri- I um…” You started timidly. She shook her head.

“Yea..I know. Not now though. I can’t handle that now. Tell me when we’re face to face again..” You nod tearfully. 

“Times up people!” For the first time during your visit Shuri gave you a half smile.

“Go to school. Send pictures.” She placed the phone back on the hook not giving you time enough to reply. She gave you a wink, and mouthed “My rider,” with a fist to her chest. Before she stood to her feet, once again holding back a grimace as an officer stepped up to place her back into her cuffs.

You sat with the phone still pressed against your ear as they took her away. Back behind the indestructible vibranium doors. 

“Ndiyakuthanda Shuri wam. Forever I’ll ride.”

As Shuri was walked backed to her cell the mixture of compliments and insults sailed her way. “Baby bird” was her least favorite. It spoke to not only her stature, but to her inability to protect herself here. She was in more trouble than she’d let on to you. 

She was caught with copious amounts of a strain of Wakandan Cocain laced with vibranium from the mine she’d worked for. It was of her own making. She’d sold the idea to her boss N’jadaka, but everyone called him Killmonger. The product was swiped when they took her in and the money had been spent for her mothers treatments. She was not only taking heat from the police. But, from Killmongers goons. She had a debt to pay. 

Her cuffs were removed, and she was roughly placed in her cell. She looked around the six by six room, no longer able to hold on to the tears. She laid onto her steal bunk rolling over onto her side. She placed her pillow to her mouth as she got into fetal position and bawled into her pillow. There was not one inch of her body that wasn’t in pain. They’d taken all of her commissary. And someone had even swiped her bedding. 

A pained groan left her lips. As she sighed. Sitting up she stared at the door to her cell. Her new life, her full ride scholarship, and future career as a scientist were flushed down the toilet at the snap of a finger. This was her life now. In order to survive she would have to put you and who she could’ve been in the past. No more weakness. It was time to woman up and make peace with the RAIN!

@udakuwilliams