#And then Lin thought about how she has diamond eyes

[gasotea]

I love how cat Lin can tempt me out of any work.

[thedragonholder]

The Titans squad -2

It has been a week since the three were at the monestary together training and learning from lord liu Kang Hatsune slow started to warm upto the two since they had to work together.

Right now the trio were at the monastery training area Kung lao, Kitana and Hatsune were currently at the training grounds going to train together kung lao and Kitana were sparring against each other while Hatsune watched while looking at them "liu Kang said he's going to be teaching us how to use these powers but he's not here!" Kung lao said Kitana sighed "kung lao, lord liu Kang probably has urgent matters to attend too plus he has already taught us everything about the realms" Kitana said to kung lao "i am going to go to the library this is a waste of time" Hatsune said to the two.

Hatsune made her way to the library "if liu Kang wants us to train our powers shouldn't he be investigating what happened to our Titans" Hatsune mumbled to herself to others liu Kang maybe their god and protector but to Hatsune liu Kang is just like any human she has met a man full of secrets that he didn't want to reveal.

She may not know that man well but she can see a person's personality clearly as daylight even if the others cannot see it.

Hatsune went inside the library looking through books she wanted to read to herself and to gather more information in order to find out about the realms.

She looked around the library seeing different scrolls and different books that have been collected or written by liu Kang and Geras themselves.

"Hatsune"

she heard a whisper as she looked around her eyes scanning the room her guard was up as she walked around

"Hatsune"

she heard the whisper again coming from the deep corner in the library she felt her anxiety rise her guard was up and as she looked around she saw someone a red aura behind a painting of an old man who looked similar to someone she recognised 'that person looks like a goddess of nature' Hatsune thought.

She carefully removed the painting she looked there to see a safe Hatsune frowned but a red sphere of red magic started to surround Hatsune's hand went to the safe and it immediately opened Hatsune was a bit shocked the safe opened revealing a book.

The book was a black thick book with red lines forming from a black diamond in between the book let out a fiery red aura as Hatsune held it in her hands the safe immediately got closed on it's own.

"Hatsune!!" Hatsune turned around quickly hiding the book behind her as she looked to see liu Kang he had just arrived to see her there and the safe closed "i was worried you might have ran away" liu Kang said to Hatsune approaching her with a worried look "i am fine liu Kang" Hatsune said to liu Kang "great we must get going , i bought someone who would like to meet you" liu Kang said to Hatsune she nodded wondering who the person might be "I'll be there" Hatsune said.

As the two went out of the library Hatsune secretly turned the book into a small silver ring on her finger without Liu Kang's notice who seemed to be keeping a close eye on her for some reason.

The trio and liu Kang arrrived at a beautiful Lotus garden in the monster the garden was pretty beautiful a huge pond was filled with white Lotus flowers that didn't bloom in the morning but the Sakura trees made up for the beauty of the garden.

Standing in front of them was a man wearing a blue ninja uniform he looked like he was in his forties and had a scar across his forehead from his right eye the suit didn't cover much for his top part but his bottom was covered he had black hair and icey blue eyes along with pale skin and a beard.

Hatsune, Kitana and kung lao eyes widen in shock "he has man boobs" Kitana whispered to Hatsune "i know but he looks fishy" Hatsune whisper to Kitana "I agree he looks like he's from the lin kuei but his man boobs are bigger than bi-han's" kung lao whispered to them both liu Kang cleared his throat getting the trios attention.

"Sorry about them" liu Kang said to the person "it's alright" the man said his voice was deep and rough "this is kuai Liang he's one of my old friends and has seeked refuge in this timeline since he almost shared the same fate as your titan counter parts" liu Kang said to the three of them.

"wait this has been happening in other timelines!?" Kung lao asked liu Kang "i am afraid so but i am here to teach you how to control your Titan powers" kuai Liang said to the trio causing them to be confused "why can't lord liu Kang teach us?" Kitana asked confused "i am sorry but i won't be able to teach you because I have to investigate what's happening across timelines " liu Kang said to the trio Hatsune looked at kuai Liang "he is kuai Liang's titan counterpart i wonder how hanzo will take this" Hatsune said to herself.

"how about you three introduce yourself starting with princess Kitana" kuai Liang said as they were now sitting in the garden together while liu Kang had left.

"very well, I am Kitana khan daughter of late emperor Jerrod and late empress sindel and sister to empress mileena. I like training, working, helping my sister, cooking and collecting fans. I dislike traitors, betrayers, pineapple on pizza and whoever disrespect my family. My dream is to restore trust within outworld and help my sister achive hers" Kitana said to kuai liang.

Hatsune was impressed while kung lao was happy "I am glad you and the empress are good siblings" Kung lao said Hatsune looked at Kitana "yea your a great little sister" Hatsune said to Kitana "thank you" Kitana said a bit shocked.

"that's wonderful Kitana, Kung lao" sub kuai Liang said Kung lao nodded "alright, I am kung lao descendant of the great Kung lao and i am one of the champions of earthrealm. I like hanging out and training with my friends Johnny Cage, raiden and kenshi Takahashi-" "wait did you say kenshi Takahashi?" Hatsune asked interrupting kung lao "yes kenshi Takahashi, you heard about him?" Kung lao asked Hatsune "yea I did , please continue" Hatsune said to kung lao looking away from him "alright" kung lao said to Hatsune "so um I also like to eat at madam Bo's she's like my mother. I hate the same things Kitana hates traitors, betrayers, people who disrespect my friends and family, I also hate when people take my food. My dreams are that I want to make my name in the world and get married to a woman of my dreams" kung lao said and looked at Hatsune "that's nice" Hatsune said.

"very good , Hatsune" sub kuai Liang said Hatsune looked around "um I am Hatsune and I am an assassin from netherrealm and my likes.." Hatsune paused and looked around at Kung lao and Kitana she then looked at sub kuai Liang "can I not introduce my likes and dislikes along with my dreams" Hatsune said not wanting to tell them.

"why not? I mean i don't know who you are and you know who I am so it's better if you kind of introduce yourself just not full information" Kitana said Hatsune looked at her "hey we won't judge you for who you are" kung lao said to Hatsune "I'll try I am Hatsune and my hobbies are to train , rule- I mean help the netherrealm, make sure Hanzo is taking care of himself even if he's married, making sure Hanzo doesn't get killed-" "okay anything but hanzo!!" Sub Kuai Liang said to Hatsune "alright I like putting the demons in line" Hatsune said "see that's good now we can move to your dislikes" kung lao said to Hatsune.

"well I hate pineapples on pizza that's clear violation!!" Hatsune said "i know it's like putting fruits and vegetables together and getting something that's basically disgusting!!" Kitana said Hatsune nodded "I agree with you sister" Hatsune said "Hatsune, Kitana we know you hate pineapples on pizza but is it really that bad?" Kung lao asked Hatsune and Kitana who looked at him "yea you are going to hate it like I am about to hate stabbing you" Hatsune said to kung lao "you and me both sister" Kitana said.

"okay anything else" sub kuai Liang said "well I i dislike , pretty much what both of you said along with the fact Hanzo didn't invite me to his wedding and didn't send me letters since he left but" Hatsune paused and looked down "Hatsune you know we won't judge you" Kitana said "yea so just tell us-" "guys i think this much is enough for today we'll continue the rest tomorrow" Kuai Liang said "thank you for today lord kuai Liang" Hatsune said before getting up and leaving quickly Kitana and kung lao looked at each other a bit worried for their friend.

Liu Kang was currently in his office looking through scrolls "lord liu Kang" Geras said as he entered the office "yes Geras-" "someone has opened the safe" Geras said to liu Kang causing liu Kang to be shocked "that's impossible!!' liu Kang said to Geras "I have detected some nether magic in the library and from what I know Hatsune was in the library" Geras said to liu Kang "no one should be able to get in the safe. Geras try to find out what exactly happened because whatever was in that safe was important to shinnok" liu Kang said to Geras "i will lord liu Kang" Geras said.

Later that night Hatsune was currently outside sitting at the rooftop alone she was reading the book she had found "huh this book is interesting" Hatsune said to herself. "Hey" Hatsune looked down to see Kung lao on the balcony. "kung lao, what are you doing here?" Hatsune asked Kung lao. He climbed up on the roof and sat beside Hatsune "I wanted to check on you plus you skipped dinner and it got me worried" kung lao said to Hatsune she looked down smiling a bit "you don't have to be worried about me I am fine" Hatsune said Kung lao touched her cheek making her face up "Hatsune I know your lieing and judging from your behaviour is it about the dislike thing that happened?" Kung lao asked Hatsune she looked at him with a frown "kung lao can we please not do this right now" Hatsune said to Kung lao.

"hey guys!" Kitana said as she climbed up on the roof and sat down beside kung lao "it's nothing" Hatsune said "wait is this about the introduction?" Kitana asked Hatsune sighed "I don't want to talk about it" Hatsune said looking down "look saying that you don't want to talk about it makes you talk about it" Kitana said Hatsune rolled her eyes "Hatsune we are trying to help you and get to know you more but if you won't tell us what you don't like it'll make a huge problem" Kung lao said to Hatsune.

Hatsune sighed "I hate kenshi Takahashi" Hatsune whispered "i am sorry you hate who?" Kung lao asked "I hate kenshi Takahashi" Hatsune said tears came out of her eyes "you hate kenshi? What did he do?" Kitana asked Hatsune "he's my brother and.." Hatsune said kung lao hugged Hatsune rubbing her back "wait does kenshi know that your his sister?" Kung lao asked Hatsune nodded "why didn't he tell us about you-" "look the important thing is you told us and it's good to see your opening up a bit" Kitana said to Hatsune she nodded.

Hatsune eyes then went to the garden "you guys want to visit the garden?" Hatsune asked Kitana and kung lao "sure" kung lao said "i would like that" Kitana said to Hatsune "wait guys since I can fly how about we-" "no!!" Hatsune and Kitana said together kung lao pouted "what I was only suggesting" kung lao said.

The trio went to the garden and were in awe to see the bloomed white Lotus in the night along with the beautiful cherry blossom's "wow" Kitana said "they're beautiful" Hatsune said "this seems almost romantic don't you think" kung lao said smirking at Hatsune who rolled her eyes and giggled Kitana smirked watching the pair interact.

The trio were walking around in the garden together Hatsune still had the book in her hands as she walked "what's that?" Kung lao asked looking at the book "i don't know but this book was hidden in a safe in the library, don't tell liu Kang tho" Hatsune said "not a word what's that book about anyway?" Kitana asked Hatsune "I can't tell" Hatsune said to Kitana.

The trio chatted among themselves and Hatsune noticed a person hiding from the bushes watching them "guys" Hatsune said they looked at the bushes and that was when the person was gone "what's wrong?" Kitana asked "i think i saw something" Hatsune said "i am sure it's nothing" Kitana said suddenly a kunai chain came out from the bushes wrapping around Kitana's neck and pulled her as a shout came.

"GET OVER HERE"

The person stepped out from the shadows it was a man with tan skin and wore a yellow and black armour with a black cloak around him the man had tan skin and brown eyes "who are you!?" Kung lao asked the person "i am Scorpion a warrior from the depths of the netherrealm , I'll spare this woman if you bring me liu Kang" Hanzo said to them and Hatsune sighed "oh boy" she said.

[aquata-the-champ]

the demon went down to texas: a playlist for the devil within ( @boointhenight / @kenneth-carson )

the family jewels by marina

the devil went down to georgia by the charlie daniels band

you first by paramore (feat. remi wolf)

eat your young by hozier

hospital (one man down) by madison cunningham (feat. remi wolf)

haunted by taylor swift

doomsday by lizzy mcalpine

punisher by phoebe bridgers

satanist by boygenius

the kids don't stand a chance by vampire weekend

the family jewels by marina

Oh, you think I'm unfit Little did you know that I was cut for it No glass slipper will ever fit 'Cause I could never see a diamond in it

One thing that I love about this arc is the way that Vicky and Lins use the supernatural as a way to talk about toxic family dynamics and generational trauma and general difficult family stuff! And I think this song gets at that and the use of jewels as a metaphor is perfect for the uber rich Carsons. Plus I pulled out this part because I think it nods to how Ken is kind of seen as less than his siblings, but really it's because he sees through the toxic nature of the family's past in the way others don't.

2. the devil went down to georgia by the charlie daniels band

Johnny, rosin up your bow and play your fiddle hard. 'Cause Hell's broke loose in Georgia and the Devil deals the cards. And if you win you get this shiny fiddle made of gold, But if you lose the Devil gets your soul.

How could I not?? This is the og demon deal song and I think the southern gothic of it all is very fitting for this thread being set in Texas. I wanted this playlist to kind of go chronologically through the story and this is the part when the Carsons make the deal with the devil kind of.

3. you first by paramore (feat. remi wolf)

Everyone is a bad guy And there's no way, no way to know Who's the worst Karma's gonna come for all of us And I hope, yeah, I hope, I just hope She comes, comes for you first

I know this is not what this song is about but I like to think of it as being from the demon's perspective lol. It also reminds me of like the way Boo talks to demons and how she's not easily spooked by them because she's dealt with them all her life. Idk do you feel the vibe??

4. eat your young by hozier

I'm starving, darling Let me put my lips to something Let me wrap my teeth around the world Start carving, darling I wanna smell the dinner cooking I wanna feel the edges start to burn

So this song has been interpreted in a lot of different ways and they're all valid but to me this song is largely about screwing over the next generation to get what you want now. And I think that's kind of the story of the Carsons' demon; they just keep making it the next generation's problem and that's why Ken and Boo are so determined to break the cycle!

5. hospital (one man down) by madison cunningham (feat. remi wolf)

Checking into a hospital Where the nurse is earth and sky Fighting against my flesh and blood There's nothing I won't try Even heartache looks so easy To a pair of grieving eyes I am always one man down

There's just something about a Remi Wolf collab idk idk it just works for this playlist. So idk what this song is really about but to me it is about like the world beating you down and you feel unwell about it? There's a lot of rlly visceral imagery here and idk it was just giving me Ken and Boo vibes

6. haunted by taylor swift

Come on, come on, don't leave me like this I thought I had you figured out Can't breathe whenever you're gone Can't turn back now, I'm haunted

hadtodoittoem.jpg Look it's a spooky playlist I had to put Haunted on it. To me this song is about when everything that was already kind of fragile suddenly turns into a horror movie!!! And all the dark stuff you were trying to ignore comes to light. I see this as the soundtrack to that crazy scene in the barn!!

7. doomsday by lizzy mcalpine

I'd have liked to plan out my part in this But you're such a narcissist That you did it on Halloween I had no choice in the matter Why would I? It's only the death of me

Ok so this song is about a breakup lmfao but I mostly wanted to include it because the idea of arguing with your murderer about the correct way to do it is so funny to me and idk just seems to fit here. Are you picking up the vibe I'm putting down? I also like that it's kind of a quieter song in the midst of a generally loud playlist, like an eerie moment of quiet.

8. punisher by phoebe bridgers

The drugstores are open all night The only real reason I moved to the east side I love a good place to hide in plain sight

This song is also more about vibes than meaning. I just find it so creepy lol I think Phoebe did an amazing job of like portraying this ghostly persona that works with the lyrics so seamlessly. But rather than really talking about the lyrics I just think that the sneaky, secretive nature of this song is fitting for like the demons hitching a ride back to Swynlake with Ken and Boo!

9. satanist by boygenius

Will you be an anarchist with me? Sleep in cars and kill the bourgeoisie At least until you find out what a fake I am Spray paint my initials on an ATM I burn my cash and smash my old TV

To me this song is about like rebellion and dealing with a shattered worldview and feelings of ennui by like picking some philosophy and just going crazy with it with your friends. Ken and Boo are not satanists/nihilists/anarchists as far as I am aware but they are dealing with a lot of shit together! And kind of rebelling in their own ways against some of the values they grew up with. So I thought this was fitting!

10. the kids don't stand a chance by vampire weekend

The pin-striped men of morning Are coming forward to dance Forty-million dollars The kids don't stand a chance

So I hate to end this playlist on a downer but think of it this way: this story isn't finished! I think a cool part of this arc was that it was a complicated victory: they saved Ken's life, but now they have a whole other set of problems. And meanwhile, the Carson family fortune and their tie to the demon continue on! The same way the evils of the world that the demon can represent, like greed and exploitation, also continue on. That's what this song is about to me: you win a minor victory, but now you have a whole other set of problems that makes it hard to feel hopeful.

Anyway can't wait to see what happens next!!!

[sevikellsss]

Kyalin Fanfic: I Know You Care Part 2

Authors note: So here’s part 2!!! For part 1 click here!!! Again, I’m so sorry for taking so long, writing is a process so.. that’s my justification 😂 Thank you for your patience again and thank you to my beta reader: @moonlightsanctuary!

Summary: An unexpected letter from a secret admirer arrives on Lin’s desk, and it causes Lin to face the demons of her past. Kya wants to start again with the woman she has been pining over since they were children, but her traumas come back to haunt her. Wanting to be free of the pain they both experienced, they find the courage to begin anew and trust another. Will they allow themselves to be vulnerable again and open their hearts to the prospects of new love?

word count: 4.5k

Kya awoke to the sounds of birds chirping out the window. The sunlight pierced through the clouded sky as she stirred in her bed. She rose upright, hand waving to block out the morning light. Turning over in her bed, she welcomed the winter morning with open arms, as the thoughts of what happened the night before transpired.

A large grin found itself on her lips, as she recalled the dance she shared with Lin, the tune still swirling around in her brain. She sighed, swooning at the memory of her lifelong crush. As she observed the sight of the Pro Bending Arena outside her window, it reminded her of Lin’s calloused hands holding hers, the warm feeling that filled their hearts, the diamonds twinkling in the night sky.

She remembered sitting on the bench, listening to the waves crashing against the cliff side, the lights from the arena illuminating the surface of the water. Their conversation was fresh in her mind. Kya was still in disbelief that it all really happened. But she was also scared shitless. Her fear of the past was one of the reasons why she held back.

It was one of the reasons why she didn’t tell Lin how she felt sooner, especially after her travels. Dating someone for the first time in years was frightening, but it also excited her. It was going to be with Lin. Someone she felt so strongly for, even though she had been in relationships before.

She hoped, pleaded that what they had for their future would be better than what she had experienced. She looked up to the ceiling. Please be better this time...please.

A voice was heard faintly in the distance. Kya’s ears perked up, listening in.

“Pleaaaassseeee! Please Daddy?!”. That shrill tone made Kya giggle to herself. Seeing her nieces and nephew always washed her fears away. A door burst open and was followed by Ikki, pointing an accusatory finger at Tenzin.

“Daddy won’t let me bring Chief Beifong!” , she exclaimed, eyes squeezed tightly shut. Tenzin sighed in exasperation. No matter how many times Ikki acted like this, the reaction was always the same.

“She wants Lin to stay here for her sleepover on her birthday in a couple of months. I said no”. Ikki crossed her arms in defiance, sulking at her father’s words.

“Haha, Ikki, I didn’t know you even had a good relationship with Lin”, Kya questioned, a smirk tugging at the side of her mouth.

“I want to be her when I grow up!”. Ikki thrashed her hands in the air, making swishing noises with her imaginary cables. Tenzin slapped a hand to his face, as he groaned. Kya burst into laughter wholeheartedly at Ikki’s imitation of the woman she adored. She imagined what Lin’s reaction would be if she saw the scene that was unfolding.

“Oh, come on Tenzin. Let Lin come, it’ll whip the kids into shape. You know, she is a paragon of discipline”, she pleaded, jokingly pouting at her brother. Ikki did the same, making puppy dog eyes and mimicking her aunt. Tenzin rolled his eyes in vexation and huffed.

“Okay, fine. Lin can come”, he sighed, flailing his hands in surrender, accepting his defeat.

“YAY!”. Ikki thrust her arms up in excitement and resumed fighting with her “cables” around the area. Smiling to herself as Ikki ran across the room, she continued to think about how much more she wanted to spend time with Lin, and the dates they would have together.

Her face grew warm as she conjured thoughts of the future. Tenzin looked over at Kya, taking notice of her light-hearted smile. Something was off. Different.

“You seem different. Happier, almost”, he said in a lower tone, earning a questioning look from Kya at his observations.

“I do? Ahh, well, my date went well last night, that’s all”, she replied carelessly, shifting her attention back to her niece.

“Oh. Another one of your short term romances I see”, Tenzin scoffed. Comments like that always bothered Kya; he always thought she wasn’t capable of making any commitments. She was always labelled as the irresponsible one of the family, even though she had proven to be the opposite.

“Actually, I’m thinking of keeping this woman around a little longer”, she retorted proudly, looking closely at his reaction. Ha. See I can be committed, she thought. Tenzin stared in astonishment. He couldn’t believe that his nonconforrming ‘go with the flow’ sister was able to date someone for longer than a day.

“Wow, uh-really?”, he questioned, inflecting his voice in surprise.

“Yeah, I think I might call her soon”, Kya said, looking back at the Arena where she spent time fawning over Lin. Kya was smitten and she liked it. She finally had something to look forward to for once. Things were falling into place so well....

———————————————————————-

Lin sauntered into the police department as her officers worked busily at their desks.

“Good morning!”, she said, elated as she nodded her head at Mako and the others. They all stared at her, and then at each other, perplexed by her happy mood.

“Uh...hey Chief”, Mako replied, looking around the room for confirmation of what had just occurred. Mako was shocked at the difference in his boss.

Was this the same woman that gave him orders, shouted at her workers when they were wrong about a case, concealed her emotions? Did this unreadable woman suddenly become free and susceptible?

Looking to the left, he saw Lin, willingly making conversation with Saikhan, smiling as she talked. What is happening?.... he thought, looking down and raising his eyebrows as he got up, wanting to know why there was such a change from her usual mood to this one.

Mako followed Lin into her office speedily, as she glided in glee, the euphoria radiating off of her. Closing the door behind him, he stood there, eyes wide open, staring at Lin while she hummed along to the song ingrained in her mind.

Lin couldn’t help herself. She felt giddy again. Like she had a fuse inside of her, on the brink of ignition. Her face was flushed, glowing even, her heartbeat faster than the speed of light.

She closed her eyes as she sat in her chair behind her desk, smiling at the thought of Kya holding her, and guiding her through the dance they had together.

I know you care,

I know it’s always been there...

Those lyrics played repeatedly in her mind. They were now a part of her, and so were the moments she shared with her unexpected admirer.

Everything was so perfect, from the dinner that Kya made, to the conversations they had, to the slow dance, even to the kiss in her forehead. Lin had the time of her life last night, and she wanted to relive it again.

“Hey Chief, I have the paperwork for The Triple Threat Triad robbery”, Mako stated, awkwardly handing her the pieces of paper in his hand, still standing in shock as to what he was seeing.

“Just leave it on my desk”, Lin replied, soft yet flippant. As much as she cared about her work, all Lin wanted to think about was Kya. She longed to hear her voice, smooth as silk, vibrating in her ears, she thought about Kya’s ocean scent, the softness of her skin, their fingers intertwining as they held hands.

Her heart leapt at the idea of them being around each other. She stared into the distance longingly, forgetting that someone was in the office with her.

“Chief?”, Mako asked as he looked at Lin in disbelief. Snapping out of her daydream she looked up at him, eyebrows furrowed.

“What?”, Lin responded gruffly, annoyed at his interruption. She wanted Kya on her mind, not him.

“You were daydreaming. Are you getting mushy on me again?”, he challenged, crossing his arms, and snickering to himself as he watched the shock on his boss’s face.

“No! Look, I have a meeting soon, it’d be great if you didn’t grill me beforehand!”, she yelled in self-defence.

“Okay, whatever you say”, Mako yielded, smiling to himself as he left on her own to prepare for her ‘meeting’. Lin exhaled in relief. That was close.

Slowly, sinking into her chair, she looked at the paperwork on her desk under her lashes, trying to forget how close she was revealing the details of her love life.

As much as she wanted people to stay out of her business, she knew that Mako’s questions were more out of genuine curiosity than out of malicious intent. It was commonly known that he looked up to her, even though he wouldn’t admit it himself.

She considered calling him back into her office and apologising until a loud ringing ripped her from her thoughts and back to the present. Staring at the phone, she contemplated answering it, wondering if it was even really worth her time. With a heavy sigh, she pulled the phone from the receiver and pressed it to her ear, speaking into the mouthpiece.

“Republic City Police Department, this is Chief Beifong speaking”, she answered, keeping her tone brisk to indicate she wasn’t in the mood for talking. All of that changed when a familiar voice answered back.

“Why hello to you too Lin!”. Kya’s voice was irrefutably distinguishable as she chuckled into the receiver, causing Lin’s eyes to widen in surprise. “Kya??”. Her face went from surprised to delighted in a matter of seconds.

Lin felt relief that it was Kya calling her, and no one work related. She needed a break; after all, she worked hard enough at her job anyway.

“Hey”, Lin said, grinning shyly.

“So, whatcha doin’ good lookin’? Thinking about last night are we?”. A level of amusement filled Kya’s voice. A warmness covered Lin’s cheeks, and a feeling of bashfulness filled her insides.

“What? No, I-I was thinking about my paperwork, that’s all”, she stumbled. A loud gasp was heard on the other end of the phone.

“Oh? So you were thinking about it?”, Kya chortled, casually flirting with Lin. Kya was hoping she was thinking about it. She wished that she would be on Lin’s mind as much as Lin was on hers. Kya was glad, knowing that what had occurred was significant for her.

“No, I mean, yes, but-“. Lin groaned, mortified by the words coming out of her mouth. It was the first time she was speaking to Kya since their date and these were the words she was spouting?

“Aww Lin, it’s okay. I was thinking about you too”, Kya admitted reassuringly. “So, you are probably wondering why I called....”. Lin blushed at Kya’s words; thankful that the interaction was over the phone and not in person. Lin knew she probably couldn’t keep a straight face, much less control how embarrassed she was.

“In a manner of speaking. Although, I have to admit, it’s a nice change compared to my normal routine”, she countered, still recovering from her last awkward response.

“Well, I was wondering if you wanted to do something this weekend?”, Kya asked hesitantly, hoping that it wasn’t too much of an inconvenience. “Any ideas Chief?”.

Lin took a moment to go over her plans. She was free after her shift, but she had no idea what or how they could spend time together.

Looking into the distance, still deep in thought, Lin saw Harmony Tower, standing proudly across from her office.

As the rays of sunlight peaked out of the clouds, the rays reflected off of the pillars on the tower, caressing its smooth metal surface, causing Lin to stare, drawn in and enchanted by its beauty. An idea came to mind as Kya called out her name for the third time.

“LIN!”. Kya’s exclamation yanked her from her trance as she spoke abruptly.

“Sorry, I-uh. I lost my train of thought. I have a question”. Kya hummed in reply, in a husky tone. Lin leaned forward resting her elbows on the desk.

“How do you feel about heights?”...

———————————————————————-

Kya walked slowly up the stairs, feeling tense as she took in the steepness she felt under the soles of her feet. The breeze rushed through her hair and penetrated her skin, as she nervously approached the top of the tower.

She was petrified of how the next date was going to go. Being out in the cold like this took her back to a time where she felt alone, abandoned, unsafe. The future was daunting, especially when all that was left was a feeling of immense uncertainty.

Finally reaching the top, she saw a voluptuous figure, the moonlight shining off of their metal armour, leaning forward over the side of the tower. Kya’s muscles immediately relaxed as she saw Lin effortlessly waiting for her, her head turned to the side. Kya admired the metalbender’s side profile, gazing at the outline of Lin’s harsh cheekbones. Beautiful...

A table was set for both of them, wine glasses and chairs on either side. A bottle of wine and a candle were placed in the middle, along with bags of Kwong’s cuisine, the smell of herbs and spices filling the air. Kya loved it; it was so Lin, in all of its simplicity. She couldn’t wait to explore more sides of her.

“Hey, stud”, she flirted, taking Lin by surprise. Lin’s body shot up and she turned around rapidly, smiling as she saw Kya standing there, with a hand on her hip. She looked eye-catching. She wore a blue dress that showed more of her shoulders and hugged her figure elegantly, displaying the curvature of her waist and thighs.

Around her shoulders was a shawl draped over her, embracing her strong and toned arms. At her neck, gleaming off of the lights from the tower, sat her necklace which seemed to stand out from the rest of her attire. It was indeed a marvellous sight, one that Lin couldn’t tear her eyes away from, feeling her mouth go dry and her mind buzz, unable to form words.

“Wow....Hey”. Completely stupefied, Lin’s eyes flitted over Kya’s body as she walked towards her.

“Gosh Lin, my eyes are up here”, Kya giggled, arms folded. Lin stood up straight in shock, flustered by the fact that she was caught staring too long. The water bender opened her arms wide, gesturing for Lin to come closer. She quirked up a brow issuing Lin a saucy stare as she asked, “Care to give me a hug?”.

Lin gave Kya a wary expression, her eyes darting from side to side before meeting Kya’s gaze and pointing her finger to her chest. “Me?”, Lin retorted, unsure of Kya’s initiation. Kya rolled her eyes jokingly.

“Who else? We are the only ones up here. Now come on, are you going to hug me or not?”, Kya said, widening her arms and inviting Lin to hold her even further. Lin took a hesitant step forward, allowing Kya to pull her into a full embrace. Kya pressed her face into Lin’s neck, feeling the softness of Lin’s skin underneath her cheek and breathing in the peppermint perfume she had on.

Slowly but surely, she felt the metalbender’s stiff shoulders relax under her touch. Lin’s arms fell around Kya’s waist, pressing her body close to hers, accepting her affection. Giving Lin a pat on her back, Kya pulled away, resting her hand on her shoulders, and offering Lin a warm smile.

“It’s nice to see you again. I like the setting choice. What made you think of this place?”, Kya questioned, giving Lin’s shoulders a gentle squeeze, letting her arms drop to her side and taking her place at the table in their presence.

“Well, since you like adventure so much, I thought I’d give you one”. Lin took her place at the other end of the table, settling into her chair. “I had to come straight from work, so I got us some takeout, I hope that’s okay”. Kya studied the bag in front of her, admiring the label written on it.

“Kwong’s? You know I can’t be mad at Kwong’s”, Kya said gleefully, ripping open the bag and shifting through the neatly packaged items, setting them onto the table.

“So, how’ve you been? Got up to anything recently?”. Kya looked up, happy that Lin cared enough to ask.

“I’ve been good. I was talking to Tenzin, hanging with the kids”, Kya answered.

“Oh. Did he say anything interesting for once? And how are the kids?”. Lin held a deadpan expression, causing Kya to erupt into laughter.

“Haha, well, Tenzin’s just....Tenzin. And the kids are fine; loud and vivacious as usual. Speaking of which, Ikki wants you to come to Air Temple Island for a week for her birthday. She calls it her ‘birth week’”, she stated, smiling to herself and at Lin. Lin was stunned. Ikki wanted her there? She didn’t know why, or how to make sense of Kya’s statements but boy, was she curious.

“Why me?”, she probed, taking out her meal and opening the container in front of her.

“She looks up to you, you know? She told me she wants to be like you when she’s older”. Kya nodded in affirmation as she spoke, digging into the food in front of her. Lin didn’t know what to say or how to react, but she knew it felt good. It was nice knowing that someone admired her that much, that she made that much of an impact on someone. Though she’d never admit it to anyone, she found it endearing.

“Ahh, that’s interesting”, Lin answered flippantly, lifting her fork to her mouth, and taking a bite of her noodles. As much as she was tempted to smile, she did her best to conceal it.

Kya caught Lin’s lips pulling into a small smirk. “She’ll be happy that you smiled like that”, she stated, smiling as she realised that Lin had a soft spot for the young airbender. Lin’s fork landed on her plate with a loud clatter. Pressing her hand to her chest, she tried to stop herself from choking on her food, knowing that Kya was aware of her ‘weakness’.

“What? I wasn’t...I wasn’t smiling”, Lin started dryly, in a failed attempt to divert from the actual truth. Kya laughed and she narrowed her eyes at Lin’s declaration of innocence.

“Right...”. Sarcasm was dripping in Kya’s voice. Although she was obviously teasing Lin, she loved that Ikki looking up to her made the Chief of Police happy. It was a good sign for their potential development with each other. Kya always wanted someone who was willing to get along with her family, as crazy as the were. This moment was confirmation of that.

“So, how was work?”, Kya asked, pressing the conversation towards less invasive matters. She gave Lin a flirtatious glance, staring at her jade irises for a second and looking back down at her food. Lin’s heart stopped for a second. No one was ever there to ask her how her workday was, let alone how she was herself, especially not at home. Living alone wasn’t as blissful as people thought it was.

“It was the usual. Robberies, turf wars, and a whole lot of paperwork. Spirits, I hate paperwork”. Lin shook her head, reminiscing on all the paperwork she had throughout the years. They both threw their heads back howling in laughter.

“Tell me about it! You’d think being a healer, I wouldn’t have much to do. Well you’re wrong! If someone told me about all the training I’d have to do sooner, I would have found another way to heal people”.

They burst into laughter again at Kya’s anecdote. Kya tried desperately to contain her excitement, slapping her hand down onto the table, her face hurting from the noticeable grin on her face.

Lin looked over at Kya, staring at her beauty. Although she was still laughing with her, seeing Kya across the table made her feel immense joy. She admired the wrinkles around her cheeks and eyelids, her full lips parted exposing her beautiful smile, her blue eyes glistening as they looked up to the sky. This woman was sitting opposite her, and she couldn’t comprehend it.

As Kya calmed down, she stopped at Lin’s intense gaze searching her face, seeming to be lost in thought.

“What?”, she inquired, a huge grin still covering her face. “Is there something in my teeth?”. Kya beamed at her joke, staring back at the officer with glowing eyes.

“Nothing. It’s just...”. Lin trailed off, mesmerised by her date. “You look beautiful. Really”. Kya’s eyes welled up, deeply touched by her admissions

“Thank you. You’re beautiful too”. Lin averted her eyes away from Kya, touching the scars along her cheek.

“I don’t know....”

“It’s true Lin. You’re a stunner”. Kya reached over to touch Lin’s hand, and kissed it gently as she sent her a reassuring look. Sharing a moment of silence, Lin felt Kya’s lips trail over her knuckles, her breath hot against her skin.

It stirred something in the metal bender. As quickly as the thought came, she pushed it aside, not wanting to get her hopes up, especially when she wasn’t sure what the outcome would be.

Despite the contentment she felt in the moment, she couldn’t help the feelings of apprehension that invaded her mind, fearful of being let down and rejected again. Kya got up abruptly and grabbed Lin’s wrist, bringing her to the edge of the tower.

“Come on! Let’s see the view!”, she exclaimed excitedly.

“Okay, okay, I’m coming!”, Lin surrendered.

As they reached the edge, Kya peered at the view, eyes wide in awe, observing the lights illuminating the streets, the moon shining brighter in rivalry. The moonlight painted the waters ahead, casting a rippling luminous effect over the waves, and making Air Temple Island’s grey tones shine in vibrancy.

“It’s a great view, huh?”. Lin smiled triumphantly, knowing that this date was such a last minute idea. She was proud that it was going as well as it was.

“It’s not as great as you”, Kya returned, turning towards the woman next to her. Lin’s head turned rapidly at Kya’s comment. No matter how many times Lin was complimented by Kya, it was always astonishing to her. Being showered with compliments was unusual, but it made her feel good.

Kya nudged Lin with her shoulder playfully and followed it with a smile at her expression. She stared down at the drop below them and then back at Lin. Kya’s facial features slowly distorted into a smug and knowing look. Lin’s eyebrows perked up in confusion.

“‘Man, I wonder what would happen if I fell down there...”. Kya began to dance around it, feet gliding across the ground etching closer towards the edge. Lin’s face grew more and more worried.

“Kya, be careful. I don’t want you to get hurt”. Lin reached her hand out nervously towards her. Kya’s back was leaning over the edge now.

“Oh, come on, Lin! Live a little!”. She took a step back and felt the weight drop beneath her, falling backwards. Before Kya could react, she was over the tower’s edge, descending towards the ground fast, the wind whooshing around her. This is it, this is how I die, she said to herself, contemplating her life choices up to this point.

Suddenly, she felt something wrap around her waist, halting her movements mid-air. Looking up, she saw the metal bender on the side of the tower, hoisting in the air with her cables. Once Lin felt she had a secure grasp on her, she tugged at the cables, using her bending to pull Kya towards her, as she ascended upwards.

Oh....spirits. Seeing Lin like this excited her greatly. It was different from anything she had experienced, but she wanted to see her like this more.

Kya’s chest was heaving, and her breathing became heavy, surprised at Lin’s strength. She clearly underestimated Lin’s bending abilities. She knew she was strong, but not this strong. At this point, nothing mattered as Lin’s face became much clearer the closer she got to her. She noticed the fear plastered on her face and into those green eyes. A feeling of remorse took control of her as she got closer to Lin’s body.

Lin grabbed a hold of her waist, pulling Kya closer to her as they swung from the tower to the closest building ahead. Kya fell under her intense stare of disapproval, unable to meet Lin’s unwavering gaze as Lin brought them down back to Harmony Tower.

“Woah...”, Kya spoke, recovering from the incident that had occurred.

“Are you okay? Are you hurt?”, Lin fired, quickly examining her body for any injuries.

“I’m okay, Lin. I’m sorry, I might’ve gone a bit too far”, Kya confessed, hanging her head down in shame, laughing under her breath.

“You think??”, Lin yelled, walking towards Kya and holding her close. “I’m glad you aren’t hurt. Don’t scare me like that okay?”. Lin held Kya’s face, looking into her eyes with deep concern.

“Okay, I’m sorry. I promise I won’t scare you again”, Kya replied, jokingly as she stared back at her. Before she gave Lin a chance to answer, she crashed her lips onto hers, taking her by surprise. Lin’s eyes widened, still in her movements as she felt the warmth of the water bender’s lips on her own. She gradually eased into what was happening, bathing in Kya’s touch and slowly kissing her back.

Lin felt her cheeks heating up as she felt Kya’s tongue peek out, tracing her bottom lip begging for entrance. She parted her lips, granting her permission and felt Kya’s tongue searching her mouth, relishing in her taste. Lin allowed the intimate gesture, despite the apprehension to let her guard down. It was nice to enjoy the moment without having to worry about anything else.

Lin pulled Kya closer by her dress, embracing her lips further and pulling her against her body. Their lips fell apart, both slowly opening their eyes to meet the others. Kya took notice of Lin’s reddened cheeks and bit back her laughter, covering her mouth with her hand.

“You’re blushing again”. Lin slapped her hands to her face in humiliation.

“Fuck...”, she reacted, laughing through her words.

“I like it when you blush. It’s cute. Plus, I get to see that soft side you like to hide so much”. Smiling at each other, they looked at the city around them, admiring its beauty.

“The view is wonderful up here. You know, it wouldn’t be a bad idea seeing what it’d look like up close”, Kya said, moving behind Lin and whispering it in her ear.

Lin lifted her, indicating for Kya to take hold. Hesitantly, Kya grabbed Lin’s hand, grasping it tightly while holding onto the edge. Kya was pulled to Lin’s body, feeling the metal against her skin, and the metalbender’s firm hand around her waistline.

“Let’s go”, Lin declared, beaming as she leaped off the brink of the tower, holding her steady as they swung to the building next to them. Kya yelped brightly, writhe with joy as they took off into the distance, enjoying each other’s company, flying about in the night...

[skyview-temple-spring]

more writing! some AU stuff with Zelda & Ghirahim being idiots and Link and Fi having to deal with their shit. (prompt #7 from the same list I’ve been using) T for language (also on ao3)

Zelda trudged through the muddy Faron forests, weighed down by the monster of a sword strapped to her back. The rain was only a drizzle, but if they didn't get back soon the sky would open and they'd be drenched. Ghirahim would surely start complaining about rust, going on and on for hours about how his sword deserved to be treated and that Link never left Fi out in the rain and how Zelda was no better than Demise if she dared disrespect him in such a way—

They had to hurry.

"Bet you can't hit that tree from all the way over here."

Of course, that is not what they did.

"Oh, you are so on. I thought we had learned by now to never doubt my skills?"

"I'm just saying, visibility is not the best, it's dark and cloudy." Zelda shrugged, crossing her arms and leaning against a nearby tree.

Ghirahim sent her a glare, straightening himself up and summoning a glowing dagger. With a calculated flourish, he sent the blade flying into the misty woods,  never breaking eye contact with her. Though the dagger had disappeared from sight, they heard it hit the tree with a loud thunk! a second later.

The sword turned to bow arrogantly to an unseen audience, gloating and making as big of a deal as he possibly could.

"Ha! Who's laughing now?"

"Kweeeee!"

"Oh, fuck me.”

--

Link lay cuddled up on his couch, curled beneath a fuzzy blanket as he watched the torrential downpour outside the window.

"The weather's getting really bad, should we be worried about them?" He wondered aloud, looking to Fi for an answer.

"20% chance they got lost. 30, maybe, one of them got hurt. 50 they've just done something stupid." Fi rattled off, much less precise than she used to be. After the downfall of the Demon King neither had been very keen to start fighting again, so once the surface had been rebuilt and a new class of knights entered the academy, they gladly let others take on some of the heavy burden of saving the world. The hero and his sword were content to explore the world below on their own terms.

This did not mean, however, their lives were not filled with danger and chaos on any given day.

The door slammed open and the raging wind swept inside, shaking the walls of their home and rattling the shelves. Link jumped up, hurrying to the girl cradling a brown and tan lump under her arm.

"Help?" Zelda called into the house, out of breath and sopping wet. Behind her stood the demon lord, just as soaked, and even more upset.

"What did you do..?" Link cautiously approached them, reaching out for whatever Zelda had brought into their home. She dumped the blob into his arms, turning to wrestle the door closed once more. 

"Hello to you too, Link, and yes, we are okay, thank you for your concern." Ghirahim scoffed in his direction, but Link was preoccupied with the animal in his arms.

"Oh my goddesses, is this dead?"

Zelda had slumped onto the couch, dragging the other spirit down with her. Not waiting for a response, Link deposited the lump he was now able to recognize as a kikwi.

"I don't think so? We didn't see what happened, Ghirahim threw a knife into a tree and then we found him lying in the mud." She groaned, sprawling out over the couch with her head in Fi's lap. The sword didn't push her away, wet as she was, but didn't look too happy about it either.

"Yeah, well, if Mocha here hadn't gotten in the way—"

"It's Matcha, dumbass."

"The personal designation of this kikwi is Machi." Fi interrupted them, though the name of the kikwi didn't really matter as it was passed out on Link's floor, "Please refer to it by it's name."

"—he wouldn't have gotten hurt." Ghirahim finished, ignoring everything the other two had said. Link gaped at him, aghast.

"You killed him? "

"Who doesn't like a little murder to start their evening?" Ghirahim waved him off, sarcasm dripping from this words.

"We didn't kill him!" Zelda yelled from the couch, falling off a moment later with a loud thud. She popped back up in time to see Ghirahim poking the poor thing, nearly tackled by Link to keep him off.

"It's a plant, we can't have killed it anyway."

Zelda slowly turned to the demon.

"Do you think plants don't die?"

"You can't kill them."

"Yes, you can!"

"I think he means to say you can't murder them." Fi resolved, though she stayed in her place on the couch. "Murder is a term reserved for sentient life forms."

"Is it?" Ghirahim pondered, to the dismay of a very distraught Link. "That thing's barely sentient, but I would definitely describe it as murder if I actually killed him."

Fi, helpful as ever, chimed in with, "Murder has to be premeditated. Killing someone on accident would be manslaughter."

"Who says it was a accident?"

"I do, I was there!" Zelda piped up, "And he's not dead! He's sentient, too, non-sentient things don't scream when you stab them!"

"Fi's a sentient life form. I could stab her and I don't think she'd care."

"I would."

"Stop arguing over this and help me heal Mochi!" Link shouted over their argument, rifling through the cabinets for a potion.

"Machi." Fi corrected him.

Though he tried, it became clear no one was listening to Link. Ghirahim ignored his plea, continuing to argue with Zelda.

"Besides, your evidence is incorrect," He dismissed, turning to leave the dead (not dead!) kikwi. "Deku babas absolutely scream in pain and they're not sentient. They're plants, this thing is a plant, I didn't murder it."

"I can only verify with 30% accuracy that Machi is a plant."

"60/200 not plant still leaves, like, a quarter of a plant."

"No, that's not what I said." Fi sighed, growing exasperated. "I said I can only verify with 30% accuracy he is a plant. That does not mean he is 30% plant, 70% other. And for the love of Hylia simplify your fractions, you're killing me."

"Macho—"

"Machi."

"—doesn't seem to be able to answer us right now, so we'll have to solve this later."

Link hadn't bothered to pay attention to their discussion. He hadn't been able find a potion (he'd need to restock up in Skyloft. given how prone to injury the four of them were, to be without one was asking for trouble) and stopped his frantic searching, kneeling next to the kikwi to take time and find what was actually wrong with him. There wasn't any blood, there didn't seem to be any wounds. In fact—

"He's just passed out, you scared him half to death!" Link sighed, tugging the plant into his arms. "And it's going to be even worse when he wakes up, put him back where you found him!"

"No way am I going back out in that, I'll rust." Ghirahim whined, gesturing to the rain outside. Thrusting the dead weight into Ghirahim's arms, Link glared at the demon and effectively silenced his protests.

"Fine." He grumbled, much less argumentative than he used to be, and disappeared in a shimmer of diamonds.

"I told you we didn't kill him—hey!" Zelda reminded Link and Fi, but Link was pushing her away from the couch she had been trying to fall back on.

"You're getting water all over our living room." He pouted, "You and Ghirahim are such messes. It's like you brought the hurricane inside with you!"

"You are both incredibly high maintenance." Fi agreed, going back to whatever she had been doing before getting rudely interrupted. "The difference is Ghirahim knows it. Zelda, darling—"

Zelda nearly knocked Link over when she heard the pet name. As forced as it sounded, and almost definitely something she had picked up from Ghirahim (meaning it was not meant to be affectionate, but mocking), the subtle sign of Fi's growing emotional responses warmed her heart. Zelda pulled the sword spirit into a tight embrace.

"You're getting me wet. You know, Ghirahim is right to worry about rust." Fi sighed, but she smiled at Link over Zelda's shoulder. "I was saying you're still in denial. He's rubbing off on you."

"He's rubbing off on all of us, because if you don't stop dripping over my carpet, I am going to stab you too." Link threatened. He had never been very intimidating, and it had only gotten worse as time went on. Brow furrowed and lips pursed, he ushered Zelda away from where she would cause the most harm.

"Yeah, yeah, keep throwing your little tantrum." Zelda ruffled his hair as she walked past him to the bathroom, hitting Link in the head with her wet hat before slamming the door.

"What are we going to do with them?" Link sighed affectionately, looking over the damage they had done. At least this time there was no blood to clean up.

"That is a question I unfortunately cannot answer, Master Lin—"

Fi was interrupted by a loud crash outside, followed by some colorful and violent language mixed with expletives. Link took a deep breath, willing himself to calm down, but the door slammed open with the force of the wind once more.

"So, problem—"

"Ghirahim!"

[roselyn-writing]

Chapter 15

Be prepared!! Selviya ivy blanche, Well she as an OC (My character in the series) (When a rose turns black) how to begin with selviya? She is the most strangest character ever, She is daughter Of evie Al'shayle and Derek Monrik but from another dimension, like Sophisticated like our world, not like Virigna which is like the medieval-like ages , (you can think of them as Snow white and Prince Charming from OUAT).. She has ice magic, she even found a strange stone like silver-diamond and make like a jewellery and wears it around her neck, Unbeknownst to her that this stone (crystal silvernium) has a the ability to transform to another dimension, Absorb magic and channel it to the user, It can also used as a hologram device etc and so it has multiple uses . She did not know that until Aliyaa pointed out to her, She find about her magic when she talks with Aliyaa in the palace (after Aliyaa and her parents in Aliyaa dimension make peace with each other) .. Aliyaa begans to understand selviya why not? She reminded her of herself when she was younger! innocent happy carefree and gullible too.. Aliyaa asked about her parents from her dimension she stammers out and replied unaware( her real parents are gone, But she is adopted by two lovely couple ). Aliyaa of course did not take it seriously as she put her palm into her forehead and began to see through her memories and her moments .. From the moment of her birthed to the cursed event (her parents death) .. Aliyaa was concentrating her thoughts to this moment, wanted to know about selviya she knew that selviya somehow used her new found ice magic on them, Freezing the home with zero-below temperature and accidentally killing them in the process, Freezing their corpses until they are , broken little ice chards .. She gasped loud, as she retreated her hand from the younger woman forehead .. She was horrified, knowing what it is to kill one’s parents by herself, unintentionally, like Aliyaa when she pushed her mother(not her real mother,rather foster/adopted) Using her magic to shatter her bones, She layed on the floor as blood oozes from her mother’s mouth and lastly mutters “you’re a monster” .. Selviya was silent then she asked what did you find there? ..” nothing” Aliyaa answered her nonchalantly.. “you’re lying” Selviya calamly answered her … “Dont wanna say it” Aliyaa murmured, Opting to leave but Selviya grabbed her sleeves .. “tell me, what did you see!, you saw something and it horrified you JUST TELL ME! ..” She screams as she uses her ice magic Unintentionally… “ that what i saw, that what happend to your parents..” Aliyaa calmly answered her .. Gasping loudly .. She fell on her knees as she cries on her palms, Aliyaa kneels to hug her, showing her human and Soft side to selviya “NO .. you’re lying ..” She whimpered.. Tightening her hand on her knees .. “I did the same thing to my mother, unintentionally.. And i felt bad, but the only difference between you and me, is that you did not see it. but i witnessed my mothers life fading away ..” Aliyaa added, Undeniable sadness in her tone .. nearly tears started to gather on her eyes .. she remembered that moment and precisely and her mother said to her before she is gone .. “I’m so sorry for your loss” Aliyaa reply.. patting her shoulders .. the latter nodded then selviya said “ i am sorry for your loss too..” That was just a half chapter of Selviya non-ending chapters , In the lin-kuei

The Grandmaster was meditating peacefully, to be honest he was thinking of someone .. He months ago, he can’t stop thinking about her. and he wanted to apologise to her before she leave this dimension.. all of a sudden a sound was heard precisely in the front-temple gates, he teleports there to Investigate, maybe there will be another enemy! .. But to his surprise there was a young woman in her early 20s with blondie-silver hair mid-back hair length and blue-silver eyes .. she is very pale and she was wearing a Pink leather jacket and a white blouse and dark blue jeans .. she smiled sheepishly at him .. But what caught him the most her necklace .. “Hey, Sorry If I’m intruding or something but i’m looking for my friends! ..” She chuckles as she raise both hands in a gesture of peace.. “You came here to my temple to look for your friend’s young lady? ..” He asked annoyed, he just left his meditation for this? .. All of a sudden She tensed as she prepare for something behind him Frost Shots her a beam of ice. She blocked it easily as she returned it to her with an ice beam herself!! (She is a cryomancer?) his eyes widens .. But before she shots Frost, she Channels her power Spins around as she gathers an ice sephere in her hands and hurls at Frost his eyes widened in astonishment this technique is familiar.. (Aliyaa!!) .. Frost screams in pain as she feels the ice burning her and restraining from her movements.. “Checkmate!!” She winks then chuckles loudly as she points at Frost.. smiling and laughing like nothing happend! Like they’re just playing ..

Frost growled loudly in embarrassment as she tries tirelessly to Break free of the ice Binding .. she was defeated In front of her Grandmaster “Now where was i ..” After she stopped chuckles she added, as she looks at Subzero.. Then she gently scratches her chins .. “Oh yeah! .. I Remembered, have you seen a woman who prefers to wear black and a man with devilish smirk? And also a young man who is always excited and adventurous? the woman has a sister by the way! Who is her twin .” she asked the Grandmaster .. He stops to thinks.. she is referring to Aliyaa and her family, If not mistaken ..

“Yes.. i saw them, They’re in the shirai ryu i will lead you if only you answer my questions..” He finally answeres her questions but with a condition.. “I’m listening..” she mused at him .. leaning her face close to him .. “You’re a cryomancer? How? ..” He asked in complete confusion.. “What is a cryomancer?” She reply simply not knowing what he meant .. “Someone who use ice magic ..” he summarise it quickly .. “Oh .. that, I was born with it! ..” She chuckles as she tightens her fist and lightly hit it on her palm like a (that what you meant) gesture .. “Okay then, if you want to learn more about your heritage you can come here and learn with me! ..” He offered, Smiling to her .. She smiles back then asked him about Aliyaa .. “So you agreed to let me know where Aliyaa is? ..” she Concluded this, then chuckles .. “Yes .. we will go now! to Aliyaa of course” he blurted, feeling a bit embarrassed.. Along the way he was asking about her story where she come from, and how did she discovers she have ice magic but first how old is she.. “As a martial arts master you ask too much ..” She said chuckling .. Scratching the back of her neck sheepishly “I only ask to know, nothing else ..” he gruff a bit .. “Okay will tell, But if only tell me why you have this funny name ..” She blurted, laughing at him, then wiping a tear from her eye .. she clears her throat out of embarrassment… Frost was glaring deathly at her .. “Sorry, i only said this to lighten the mood..” She apologise .. smiling again like the carefree person she is ..

“My name is Selviya ivy blanche, i was adoped at 12 years old but i am 27 years old now, my adoped father taught Muay Thai, i used to work as a bounty hunter with the cops, you know cops calls me to help them capture a criminal.. and they pay me for it..” she stops a bit .. she work for the force of good, he cocks his eyebrows at her, for once a cryomancer that is not evil or bloodthirsty… “Then i returned to my apartment that night, Moments later someone knocks at my door, i rushed to open it but there was no one!! But a purple Singing box with decorative in purple inside of it, this jewllery..” She added, as she holds her necklace, showing it them .. “Inside there was this jewellery and also a letter.. it was really creepy but it never lies! It says travel to a dimension called Virgina or Vāloerina there you will find your family! And it described that dimension i went there and Find them along with Aliyaa and her family she helps me and we became family! . Well truthfully i come from another dimension, Not from Aliyaa dimension but from another, more modern, cars and technology you know what i mean ..” She stops to breaths, again he hums at her, her story is really interesting .. And it is really mysterious.

“My parents from my original dimension are dead, Aliyaa saw through my memories and she said i killed them Unintentionally… She said that i froze their bodies while they’re sleeping until their blown into a little ice-shards ..” She pouts a little remembering at this point Frost gaze softened.. she did the same thing to her mother, But she has none to help her to get through this .. Subzero looks at her.. His gaze also softened at her, pitying her for killing her parents unintentionally.. “And then .. what happend ..” Subzero replied smiling softly at her .. “Aliyaa helps me get through this .. She discovered that i have magic and she taught how to use or it summon it, It worked i have perfectly control over it ! .. thanks to her ..” She uttered, Feeling happy a bit .. Kuai liang smiles at her, he was really surprised Aliyaa helps people to find their potential! .. She taught her son why not ? ..

“I guess we arrived miss blanche..” Kuai liang utters, ushering her To the door of the cart, She nodds then open the door to get out ..

*in the shirai-ryu*

Aliyaa was in Her room, Her intuitive tells That Scylla is not the only person who comes for her No, there is someone else .. and it never lied Selviya .. Is coming

*outside the clan*

In the fire garden the temperature dropped below, everyone felt cold, it is surprising the snow started to fall, Telling Sub-zero is near .. but .. Not just him or Frost someone else is coming .. another ice magic user “Strange Grandmaster subzero is visiting us without a letter or something ..” Takeda utters to The grandmaster hasashi .. “It is Selviya!! ..” Hadi replied Smilingly to them “Who is selviya? ..” The grandmaster added in pure shock and also Sadness (he never likes cryomancer due to their history) “Our cryomancer” .” Aliyaa chuckles at him .. “Don’t worry she is a good kid, but sometimes she is really annoying, and gullible Too if you ask me ..” Aliyaa admitted, then chuckles .. Takeda looks excited to meet someone else who has ice power or magic .. “So we’re near right Master Subzero ? .” a new voice came, telling that their in the front gates it is a soft woman voice .. Subzero only hums .. “They’re here ..” Grandmaster hasashi added .. Aliyaa walks there to meet them .. and also Hadi Arouj and Scylla leaving Hanzo and Takeda dumbfounded.. Takeda quickly follows them .. “Wait let us surprise them ..” Arouj said devilishly.. wanted to Jump-scare them, but Hanzo smacked him on the Back of his head . “Hey what for!! They did not come and i certainly wasn’t close to do this yet!! Come on man ..” Arouj yelled, he quickly rubbed the place that hanzo smacked him in .. “For being stupid enough to try!! This Grandmaster Subzero we talks about!! He dont take these things lightly “ The Grandmaster stated matter-Of-factly at him “You could’ve just said that instead of smacking me! .. You must’ve enjoyed it..” Arouj argued with Hanzo , Hanzo smiles darkly at him “Believe me if it were not for Aliyaa, i would done far worse to you .. Now move..” Hanzo expressed his true thoughts to Arouj, Arouj stare at him, Then rolls his eyes then left to join the others .. “Ugh.. shirai-ryu ..” Frost mumbled mildly so her Grandmaster won’t hear her .. “It is cool, but i hate bugs ..” Selviya confessed to them .. “And who likes bugs? ..” Frost uttered then rolls her eyes, While walking between them .. “Yeah, you got me on that! ..” Selviya snapped her fingers, agreeing with Frost .. They enter the the front-gates only to see People who wanted to find, infront of them “Guys!! Finally i found you .. You really got me worried..” Selviya Rushed to hug each one of them .. “I knew you would come..” Hadi replied at her, then smiling at her “So this is Selviya?..” Takeda mutters, while looking at her. she really resembles (Elsa) more than Frost .. She hugged Aliyaa, Arouj and Hadi, Each hugged them swiftly and divided fast .. Then she saw Takeda and grandmaster Looking firmly at her .. both of them crossing their arms, while careful studying her, She smiles nonetheless and waving to them

“Hello! I am Selviya Ivy blanche!,Nice to meet you, Which team are you bug or penguin, Sorry can’t help it but to joke a little” She apologised, then Chuckling softly at them ..

“Bugs? ..” The Grandmaster of the shirai-ryu Raised his eyebrow at her .. not taking the joke lightly, But trying to tolerates this “Oh! Sorry i mean scorpion, well i’m kind of used to call it a bug” She explained, Then chuckles awkwardly .. Then She heard a guy close to her age muttered mockingly at her

“Scorpion kills penguin easily,” Takeda replied, a smug grin on his face ..

“More like team Ice V fire, if you ask me ..” Aliyaa joked, Break the awkwardness between them ..

“That makes it more fitting” Arouj Uttered agreeing with Aliyaa, Smiling to them

“My name is Hanzo Hasashi but you must call me grandmaster or master hasashi, i do not Tolerate indiscipline..” he answered her, Saying the last part with complete strictness .. His Face is still a Grumpy one

“Oo-kay? ooh i See! It is the Rivalry between ice and fire! I like your excitement guys keep it up!.” She replied raising her thumb ups at them .. she was shocked at first from the last part of his speech, But She was amused at their “rivalry” then she chuckles, Subzero then talk.. sensing their hostility toward her .. But she chuckles then like nothing happend, he admires her pure soul, No matter what happend to her, she still laughs or chuckle, Takeda felt a bit bad for mocking a total stranger they just met.. he chuckles too.. “Well, i am Takeda takahashi, Im on scorpion fire team, no pun intended..” He replied, Then chuckles .

“None taken little Bruce lee.” she joked then burst laughing at him .. He blushed then chuckles at her .. “Bruce lee hehe..” Arouj Chuckles at the joke she just told, they were all chuckling, Moments later a Four guests arrived Kitana, Johnny cage and Cassie cage and finally Jacqui Briggs, All of them are shocked to see a new face in front of them, Cassie saw another “Elsa” and muttered with a smug grins at her .. “Elsa!” She grins at her

“Hi!, I’m Selviya nice to meet you!” Selviya innocently mutters at him.. In her opinion it is always nice to meet new people.. “Nice to meet you ice babe..” Johnny uttered at her while yanking down his sunglasses.. “Hey we have 2 Elsas instead of one! Cool right?” Cassie joked.. But what she did not know that Selviya knows all tv shows or movies… “Yes Elsa 10 times better Than Cammy white IF you ask me ”Selviya joked back at her .. Johnny chuckles with Selviya joke “Cammy white? puh-lease i’m Better than this Dumb character..” Cassie Retorted back, Her jokes turn into mean comments

.. “Oh yeah?” Selviya crossed her arms challenging her .. Still keeping her coolness .. while Cassie Fumes in pure anger .. She smiles Calmly At Cassie, Angering her further More..

“Fine!! i challenge you into a fight to prove that..” Cassie Challenge her, bursting her bubblegum at her .. Selviya snorts then Mutters.

“Challenge Accpeted..” Selviya muttered at her, Still smiling at her .. Silently provoking her, Selviya used her Ice ability to create a Sick battle arena shape between her and Cassie.. everyone wowed at this, Frost was excited to see this match Finally seeing Cassie being whooped ..

“You know you can back down if you wanna, I do not want to hurt you or anyone! ..” Selviya added, Trying to use reason with Cassie .. “Hell No, i am not going to lose to you SKANK!” Cassie spats venom in her tone .. “Ouch, that was really unnecessary..” Selviya replied with hurt Face .. “I can call you much worse!..” Cassie mutters then rushed to her to tackle her.. Selviya then used her muay thai fighting-Stance but before that .. She create an ice coat-hanger stand, to put her jacket on it, she never wanted this jacket to get ruined, because it means a lot to her, then she got ready to fight.. Aliyaa did not stop them because she knows Selviya can fight perfectly, she and Hadi are Aliyaa Students after all .. Cassie Runs to her, aiming a punch to her face, But Selviya cart-wheeled out of the way.. Before Cassie reaches her, Selviya spattered her ice magic on The ground, Too late to avoid Cassie Slipped on it .. Then Clashed with the Ice arena painfully… Subzero was impressed, She knows how to use the ice magic well .. “Lucky shot nothing Else ..” Cassie Mutters as she got up fast, Selviya sighs it is not the first time someone Got into a fight with her .. “Still underestimating me? ..” Selviya responded annoyed at her … Cassie runs towards her again Selviya simply avoided it by Stepping out of the way, she was calm while Cassie was burning up of anger and rage .. “You need to chill, being angry is foolish ..” Selviya advised as she aims a muay thai kicked to her left side of the waist, Hearing a Bone cracking sound, Echoes in the arena, everyone Muttered “oof or ouch after hearing that sounds” .. Cassie cried in pain .. And another one to her Foot, Knocking her off her feet.. Cassie Was in pain after that kick on her waist.. the pain is unbearable… Johnny was scared, Muay thai are the deadliest Art Among the other martial arts, he mutters “STOP IT.. You’re too hard on my baby-girl ..” He shouts, Try to awaken some mercy into Selviya “It is over ..” Selviya muttered loudly, as she cornered her, Cassie was laying on the ground but not knock out .. Instead of gloating at her.. She offered to her hand to Cassie , Cassie looked at it.. “Do not think that i am gloating, I’m a nice person, i do not like to hurt people, unless they’re ready to see the worst of me..” Selviya assured.. Cassie hesitated .. Then finally accpeting this, Pulling her up .. Then smiling .. “Thank you for understanding..” Selviya smiles at her, Cassie feels kinda stupid to Got into a unnecessary fight with someone sweet like her .. Undoing the icy arena all Cheers at them.. This time it did not end with someone on within Inch of his life, it ended peacefully.. For the First time in forever, Frost clapped and cheered, Grandmaster Subzero was surprised, how Frost changed this fast? .. Selviya is helping cassie to move as she put her arms around her neck and the other arm on her Right side of the waist(Not the one who hurts her).. Aliyaa once again rushed to heal cassie .. Her divine magic healing cassie Waist, the magic course swiftly to the damaged area, Kneacked back the broken bones and healing it, returning to its restoring it to its former shape and strength.. Cassie tensed at first then, She smiles, Motioning that she is fine .. She got up fast to stretch .. “I’m fine, thanks for healing me ..” Cassie thanked Aliyaa, Aliyaa smiles wholeheartedly while nodding .. “I’m must say Selviya, I’m really impressed.. You were chilled and confident during the fight and waited for the right moment to attack ..” Grandmaster Subzero remarked proudly at her .. She smiled then mutters .. “Really.. Thanks, It means alot to me ..” Selviya Uttered happily ..

Unbeknownst to them Aliyaa gone.. to another dimension to look for someone .. This portal she used Lead her to Shanghai . She Saw someone very familiar running being chased by some robotic Ninjas .. She rushed to his aid, he was panting, Injured and His left arm seemed broken by either of them, That warrior Felt his end coming, these cyborgs cornered him into a corridor, he closed his eyes accpeting his fate until …. “Remain” A feminine voice cried, Binding them with her dark magic, the atmosphere slowly darkening and black sparks emitted from her, Her dark aura Surrounded them, a very deafening sound was Echoed from her, she was half flying Her feets are just inches from the ground, her eyes shone grey and the black magic Was clear as the sun, Then she move both of her hands scssiors-like move, To bind them and stopping them from killing that Ice warrior, Her spiky rope went through them, “Error .. error Being burned by some of otherworldly power..” one of the cyborgs said .. A divine black Ethereal Spiked ropes Bind them, Shackling their movements toward that familiar blue Ice warrior.. He gasped looking in horror at the sight in front of him, t’was a very scary sight to see .. With a wave of her hand the ethereal spiky Ropes become more burning and latching toward these Cyborgs abomination, The ropes quickly Tethered them and Burnt them to ash as their cries slowly dimming .. he looks at his savior, he saw a very beautiful woman Her face is beautiful and angelic, her eyes are grey and her hair is tied into an updo She has beautiful seductive curves and she wore a black dress showing her cleavage.. She also wore a silver necklace and her lipstick is Nude-colour .. he was blushed at her, she was really really beautiful.. “Th-thank you for saving me ..” The ice warrior Utters, he was in pain and his left arm broken, she smiled at him “Here let me heal you .. you seem really injured and tired ..” Aliyaa replied, smiling to him.. She came close to him .. Using her right hand to heal him, her power, Curing him from his injuries and mending his broken arm back, restoring it to its previous form and shape, her divine magic coursing within him, he felt stronger now and ready to fight.. But there was a sound came from his belly, embarrassing him in front of her .. she smiles at him “Sorry, i’ve been starving for two days ..” he added.. feeling a bit ashamed to tell his problems to a stranger .. she emphasised, Then she offers “Come there is a restaurant down that street.. it’s called mcdonalds.. come it is on me ..” She insisted, He smiles as he follows her “But let us change first ..” She added, using her power to change their clothes to a more casual ones .. changing his ninja attire into a casual one and his masked into a white ordinary one with two cotton strings attacked on his ears “What’s your name?.” Aliyaa asked him . she thought he is Kuai Liang but no .. “Bi-han ..” He answered gruffly .. His eyes tell of sadness, she knew what happend to him, the roles were reversed in this dimension “Aliyaa, but you can call me Al” She smiles at him .. he nodded then she utters “You have a brother called Kuai Liang right? What happend to him?.” she mutters with the same sadness “He is dead .. he goes to the tournament, he took my place as Sub-zero and perished by Scorpion..” He mutters, Cannot hold tears anymore, Clenching his fists together in anger and sadness . she gasped, she was shocked of what she heard .. cursed whoever was behind this twisted turn of events .. “And he turn into wraith named noob saibot? Right?, Do not fret, the dimension i came from he is alive, i’ll take you to him after we eat ..” Aliyaa murmured to him, Shocking him, how did she know this? . “Really?? He is? But how did you know that he turn into a wraith named noob saibot??” He asked with astonishment in his tone .. “I could tell because of the roles were reversed in this dimension..” She theorized as she pulls doorknob the of the restaurant.. McDonald, She Looks at his shocked face, he then replied at her “So, in your dimension i am noob saibot? He ask

[cereusblue]

How many Hollow Knight OCs do you have by now? Probably want to know more about them!

Oh sweet jesus. So here we go. That's a question. By the way, my Hollow Knight blog is @hallowcactus

Mayflies:

Hex and Vox (The twins, very soft. Hex is baby and Vox is salty)

Mox and Lin (Parents to the twins. Deceased in every AU.)

Lex (Lovely maroon lady who can kick some serious ass. Actually boxes in Modern AU. Climbed her way into society’s elite in GNM out of SPITE. Mel is her husband.)

Mel (Meek architect man. Scrawny as hell. Loves his wife. Do what is morally best.. always.)

Elder Yuu (Head of the Mayfly tribe. Salty old crone. Hates outsiders. but she’s a decent person somewhere under those wrinkles.)

Dragonflies:

Daze (Asshole extraordinaire and my most active character. Honestly, a spicy boi who just has a habit of making others swoon.)

Maylin (Daze's mother; absolute sweetheart but hell hath no fury like May. Powerful shaman, has direct ties to the goddess Nanu. Is the Queen of the Serpentfire dragonflies.)

Daz (Daze's father; soft spoken man with a hellish temper. Big man. Heavily armor plated, has two sets of antennas. One on his brows and another on his snooter.)

Niles (cousin to Daze. Plays guitar. Is like the awkward little sibling. He’s like a bard with no real charisma. Emulates what Daze was like as a teenager because he thought Daze was cool; Daze cringes at that but loves Niles anyway because he’s baby.)

Daze's aunt and uncle to be named

Tika (random golden colored guard who I love)

Marie (White dragonfly who runs the temple dungeon in GNM)

Damselflies:

Ysmay (the massive scary bitch. Daze is actually terrified of her. For good reason. She doesn’t use weapons because she doesn’t need it.)

Mantises:

Vernon (Devil's flower mantis and the new Lord of the Garden mantis tribe)

Armen (Ghost mantis Angy old fart who somehow got a redemption arc and it's @inkbarista fault)

Neferis (original Traitor Lord)

Zeus (Another large mantis who took over for the Traitor Lord)

Greta (med student/midwife/anxious)

Nana (Elder mantis woman. Everyone’s grandma. Midwife. Medical professional for the tribe, makes herbal remedies, teas, and is an excellent cook. Beware, she will squish your cheeks. She’s Vinny’s favorite lol)

Naloo (one bad ass bitch)

Rolan (Sweet awkward boy)

Lotus (a petra who Vinny;s character impromptu adopted)

Almond (Just another baby with a need for mischief. Adopted with Lotus)

A dragon mantis I have no idea what to do with yet but I will figure it out.

Soul Santum:

Shanen (soul master)

Moths:

Minerva (Big buff atlas moth Bimbo that's like everyone's favorite character lol)

Olivia (Council lady who helps run the moth tribe in GNM)

Ivan (Actual dickwad. One of them infuriating folks but doesn't do anything bad enough to get into real trouble but sometimes you wish he would just to put him behind bars.)

Minerva's parents that I have not named yet. Very conservative, stuck in their ways, hoity toity rich folks with unbelievably high expectations.

Spiders:

Sirenne (Siren Orchid crab spider)

Heart, Spade, Clover, and Diamond (Take a wild guess what these little bastards do? Peacock jumping spiders. Cause trouble for Hornet and run a casino.)

Rex (A jumping spider with anxiety in Modern AU and a failed assassin jackass in GNM)

Centipedes:

Chu'mana (centipede centaur massive lady, is Angy will bite. Pride is a personality. I have trouble drawing her lol. Adopted from Inkbarista)

Vessels:

Vala (b... Big- carries a massive cleaver like the one Death Sword uses in Zelda Twilight Princess. Adopted from Inkbarista.)

Mora (Blueberry baby.)

Chimeras:

Mara (Mix between Hallow, Trill, and Hex. Is their sweet little girl who grows up with Wisp. @inkbarista

Lotan (Silk/Daze's kid in Modern Au and GNM. ANGY. Will bite. Bites everything. Kin has lost 7 pairs of glasses to this little monster. He's deceivingly adorable.)

Misc:

Nanu (Axolotl jesus. Massive goddess to the Serpentfire tribe of dragonflies, gave them and the damselflies their draconic traits. Eight eyes. Cryptic as hell because lets be real, she’s a goddess and that just how it be sometimes. Literally gifts her teeth to the tribe and worthy visitors to use as climbing tools and weapons.)

Void parasite

Fluke but it's a glow worm

Phantom/Phaalgun (pronounced Full-gahn. He's a Megastick. Massive stick bug. Eerily cryptic. Very scary. Works in dealing death.)

Egon (Colossal beetle who's a bitch, runs a crime ring in the City of Tears in GNM)

Mala (Grounds keeper for the Greenpath memorial in GNM)

A random ass butterfly I have no real information about other than knowing she’s anxiety incarnate and exists

Pia (Pleotomus firefly. French?? Done with everyone's shit.)

Val/Valentine. (Velvet Ant boy. Flamboyant to the fucking max, ain't afraid to shank a bitch.)

I THINK I GOT EVERYONE. I THINK. According to @abhainn-leth That’s 49 (updated!) 54 characters and I’m inclined to believe them because I do not feel like counting. If I missed any, I will be sure to add them later. I have artwork for like, a quarter of these characters lol. But if you wanna ask about specific ones, I’ll be happy to oblige with pictures if I have them and some more information lol.

[storytellingfandom]

It Had to be You ~ Part Five

Summary: Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world she walked into hers.  Lin Beifong saw the world in two colors; black and white. That changes though when she meets the siren working with one of the largest gangs in Republic City.

Azami never had a choice. Didn’t have a way out. But she could destroy things from the inside. She could move information around. She could lie and smile with the best of them.

Neither needed anyone. Neither needed love. So what happens when fate ties them together? Can they save each other? Or will a smoking gun end something before it begins

A/N: A 1930s/40s LOK AU. Note that there will be themes that were present during this time including smoking, drinking, underlying homophobia, and potentially smut later on down the line. Writer’s views are not that of the characters.

Word count: 12671

Sleep had evaded Azami, but she’d found comfort in the dark purples and blues that the midnight sky offered her. She sat at her table, a single candle offering just enough light for her to see, as she studied the crumpled piece of paper she’d retrieved from her bedside drawer. Littered at her feet were crumpled up pieces of paper, and in her left hand, her pan sat as she worked to replicate Lin’s handwriting.

Playing both sides was the most dangerous of routes she could take. The most likely to get her killed. But it was the most likely to keep Lin away. To keep her safe. 

Finally, she’d managed to get the handwriting to match Lin’s and sketched out the map she had on the piece of paper. Changing the names of the officers, and their positions, she next creased and crumpled the paper up. Just as if it’d been stuffed into a pocket. 

Grabbing a new piece of paper, she closed her eyes and willed her tears to hold on for just a little longer. Breathing deeply, she wiped at her eyes and started in on her letter. 

When she was finally satisfied with the letter, she slipped it into an envelope and walked to her stove. Lighting the flame of the burner, she held the original plan over it and pulled it away once the corner caught flame. Walking to her sink, she let the paper burn completely before dousing it in water and watched the flimsy black spots slide down her drain.

                                                      **********

When she finally woke the next morning, she dressed simply. She chose her dark tailored trousers and a blood red blouse that covered her frame in a way that both hid her curves and framed them for those who knew where to look. Leaving her hair down again, she took the two letters from her kitchen table before slipping into her coat. 

Stepping outside, she pulled the coat close to her and slipped into Tapeesa and June’s apartment building. Finding their mail slot, she pushed the letter for the two of them into it before touching it and stepped away and back outside again. 

Stepping onto the streetcar, Azami found herself outside of the police station, starting up at the concrete building as she swallowed her fear. Keeping her letter hidden in her bag, she stepped inside and walked to the desk. 

“Is Chief Beifong in yet?” Azami asked the young man sitting at the desk. 

“She’s not taking visitors, doll.” 

“Tell her that the nightingale needs to see her, please. She’ll want to see me.” 

The young man paused, remembering how the chief had been looking for information on her before he nodded and hurried back to Lin’s office. He returned a few minutes later, Lin hot on his heels.

Lin saw Azami standing there and quickened her step. She wasn’t expecting to see her until this evening, so she was worried when her officer had told her that she was there. 

“Chief, I’m sorry to come to you at work. Do you have a few moments?” Azami asked, taking Lin’s form in, wrapped in tailored dark pants and her dark green blouse. 

“I have a few minutes. Follow me.” Lin answered, leading the way back to her office. 

Closing the oaken door, she locked it before moving to stand with Azami. The woman looked exhausted. Gently nudging her chin up, her light green eyes took her in. 

“What’s wrong?” 

“I’m fine, I just...something came up tonight I’m afraid and rather than have you make the trip down to the club and then not be able to go out to supper.” Azami answered, trying to force a cheerful smile to her face. “And, maybe I just wanted to see you again.” 

Feeling a blush cross her features, she finally allowed herself to reach out and take a lock of Azami’s dark brown hair between her fingers. Silk to the touch, just as she thought. “I would still come to see you.”

“I know, but I need you to trust me when I tell you to stay away from the club tonight.” Azami answered and reached into her bag and pulled out the letter. “Before I give you this, I do have something I really, really want to do and have for a while now.” 

Taking a step closer, Lin eyed the letter but moved her eyes back to Azami. “And what is that?”

“I really want to kiss you.” Her voice was soft as she looked up at her, eyes falling on her lips. 

Rather than say anything, Lin reached out and let her hand cup Azami’s cheek. Thumb brushing against her cheekbone as she slowly leaned in. Lips brushed against the other’s, testing the water. And then Azami reached out to pull her closer and push her lips more firmly against Lin’s and the chief of police saw color. The world stopped, and if she listened hard enough, the sound of soft jazz could be heard, and the world brightened.  

Azami felt Lin’s fingers tighten in her hair, holding her in place. Her own arm around Lin’s neck as her other hand reached up to touch Lin’s cheek. Tongues made swipes at each other, the taste of each other proving to be addicting. 

As much as she didn’t want to, Azami was the one to pull away first, even as Lin chased after her lips. “You really are incredible, chief.” 

“How do you expect me to not come to the club after that?” Lin asked, hands reaching to rest on her waist. 

Chuckling, Azami took Lin’s hands and pressed her lips to them. “I hope you think so later on.” Pressing the letter into her hands, she stepped back. “I’ll see you around, chief.” 

                                                      **********

The club was empty, the band rehearsing for later that evening. Waving at the musicians, she climbed the stairs in the back and walked to Takao’s office. Closing her eyes, she blew out a breath before knocking on the door. Pushing the door open, she saw the four people that had been in and out of the club lately.

“There’s my favorite little bird! Tell me you have something good this time, doll.” Takao greeted, lighting up a cigar. 

“I do. Wouldn’t it be something you want to see alone?” Azami asked, the stares from the others causing shivers to go down her spine. 

“Absolutely not, they’re here to help us with our goals!” Takao answered and motioned her in. “Now, what do you have for me?” 

Reaching into her bag, she took out the crumpled piece of paper and handed it over to him. Watching him compare it to other documents Lin had written he grinned. “I knew you could get her to bend to your whims. Soon we won’t have her to worry about.”

The bald man that had been sitting with Takao looked over the paper before standing, touching her cheek with a finger. “Pretty bird deserves something for her hard work.”

Jerking back from the touch she looked at the time. “I’ll take a pay raise. Best be off to get ready.” 

“Where your best dress for me tonight doll, you know the one I like.” Takao called after her. 

Shutting the door behind her, she closed her eyes and hurried down to her dressing room and locked the door behind her. 

                                                   ************            

���I'm a fool to want you I'm a fool to want you To want a love that can't be true A love that's there for others too…”

The club was full that night. The smoke in the air hung like fog around her. Celebrating they said, all the important bosses were there celebrating that their trouble with the police chief was over. They had her plan. They had her cornered. And soon enough, they’d have her head to mount on a flag pole. 

Azami was dressed to the nines. A silk, dark amethyst purple sleeveless dress. The bodice wrapped itself around her while bright diamonds and rubies sparkled around her neck.

“You earned it little bird. The chief’s blood around your neck is the ultimate prize.”

Her voice lacked a bite, she swayed with the music as she simply existed in the soft notes that floated around her. A good little bird, that was all she was.

“I'm a fool to hold you Such a fool to hold you To seek a kiss not mine alone To share a kiss the Devil has known.”

Her mind flashed to their kiss in Lin’s office. Her strong arms had been around her waist, one hand had found its way into her hair. Her lips had been chapped, but were soft when you pushed past it. She’d smelled of eucalyptus and lavender. Her mouth had tasted of coffee and the mint of her toothpaste. Her skin was like silk. 

No matter what happened tonight, she had that kiss. She had that moment that she could hold onto. And the memories of that smile. The glimpses of the woman that hid so well behind a legend that wanted to help people. That wanted to protect everyone that she could. That blamed herself for so much when all she needed as gentle reminders.

I never meant to have feelings for you. You were just a job. And maybe, for you, I was the same thing. But for me, you were a taste of what freedom could be like…

“Time and time again I said I'd leave you Time and time again I went away But then would come the time when I would need you And once again these words I'll have to say”

She should have ended it sooner. Should have pushed her away. But she couldn’t. Aside from the job, Lin had pulled to her. She was a rock in this tumultuous sea. She was a hand to hold when the floor came out from under her. She held a key to the cage she found herself in. She’d grown to care for her. 

And then she’d seen the way she helped her neighborhood. Had seen the way that the people she cared about the most had opened up to her. And that was how she came to her decision. She had to keep them safe. She had to help them. She had to keep those who had raised her, loved her, and taught her what she knew safe. 

And to do that, a sacrifice had to be made.

“I'm a fool to want you Pity me, I need you I know it's wrong, it must be wrong But right or wrong I can't get along Without you.”“I can't get along Without you.”

The song was coming to a close, the swell of the music behind her voice. She had them under her spell again. All eyes were on her. Lights were bright on her. Highlighting the lighter tones in her hair, the sparkle of the jewels at her throat. The purple bringing out the brighter green tones in her eyes. Hands came up to touch the microphone and in that moment, she fell under her own spell.

The world faded around her. The band was far away and the smoke had finally cleared. Sitting in front of her was Lin. She was dressed in a sharp, black suit. The white blouse she wore was trim and showed off the lean curves. A whiskey sat in her hands, her light eyes were boring into her soul. A smile tugged at her lips, which were currently painted in a dark, deep red. The last of the whiskey was tossed back and she stood from her chair. One hand in her pocket, she sauntered over to her, and extended a hand out to Azami. 

She was pulled into her arms then, she continued to sing, continued to provide what music she could as the orchestra took over for a few bars. Lin gently led her around the dance floor, swaying as her lips skimmed the top of her head. Her arms were safe. In her arms she was free. In Lin’s arms she can do anything. She could leave this all behind, she could start a new life, she could be happy. 

But then she stops, she presses a kiss to her forehead, and the dream fades away. The smoke fogs and clogs her senses. Voices are beginning to raise. The heads of different groups are crowding Takao screaming about how no one was there and that on the way back, some of their best men had been arrested. 

She could feel Takao’s rage from across the club. Could see the fire burning brightly in his eyes. Lin and her men were safe. They would live to fight another day. Would live to one day get these men under control. 

One group went left, the other went right. Any arrests that were made would have been done by coincidence. She’d sent Lin’s team across town. There were too many and even if they knew what the plan was, and she’d tried to give as much information as she could in her letter. But even with that, they would have been killed. And she couldn’t let that happen. 

“I can't get along Without you.” 

She didn’t see the gun. She didn’t hear the shot. All she felt was a tear through her abdomen and collapsed to the stage as blood ran through her hands. A glove dyed red reached out, reaching for where Lin normally sat. 

But Lin wasn’t there that night. Lin was across town in her office, a whiskey in her hand while the other arm rested on the window as the rain poured down. The radio played their song but it was sung by the wrong person. The voice should be a woman that had taken her heart before she’d played her as easily as anyone that walked into that bar. Green eyes felt the rare tear slip from it as she waited for the alcohol to do its damn job. The burn of the whiskey wasn’t enough though, and so the sound of shattering glass punctuated the end of the song as she turned from the window and started for the door, leaving the shattered glass strewn across the floor.

“I wandered around, finally found somebody who Could make me be true, could make me be blue And even be glad just to be sad Thinking of you…”

[tact-and-impulse]

Anyway, here’s info about my MCs for @shepherds-of-haven​​. I think I dropped enough hints in my Lovelace Day fic to connect who's who.

Name: Erigeron Keernyth / Nickname: E / Callsign: Rimefrost

Gender and Pronouns: Male, he/him / Sexuality: Pansexual

Age: 26 / Heritage: Elf / High Stat: Nerves of Steel / Low Stat: Bright Mind

Weapon: Dagger / Specialization: Elementalist / Education: Circle trained

Tarot: The Emperor / Wreath Day: Ashar 17

Description: A tenacious, self-assured Mage who desires nothing more than vengeance against evil. Tall and muscular, he wears a sardonic face until there’s word of an Endarkened. Then, his green gaze fills with delighted bloodlust before his silver-crowned head disappears out the door.

Fragments from the past:

Climbing up to the treehouse in Vale, letting his legs dangle over the side and kick out at nothing in particular

Bedding down for the night in a dense part of the woods, huddled with his clanmates for warmth and safety

The aftermath: a vow made on the blood he angrily spit through his teeth

Sharpening his dagger in a leaky tent and counting down the days to the end of this job, while the bigoted noble he was escorting snored incessantly in a cushy wagon

The first time he killed an imp, how easy it was to render the limbs apart, and the frustration that it wasn’t enough to make him feel better, that he needed to be even stronger

Art: Picrew

***

Name: Zoegea Keernyth / Callsign: Diamond

Gender and Pronouns: Female, she/her / Sexuality: Straight

Age: 24 / Heritage: Elf / High Stat: Razor Wits / Low Stat: Nerves of Steel

Weapon: Gun / Specialization: Shifter / Education: Circle trained

Tarot: The Lovers reversed / Flower Day: Loa 22

Description: A withdrawn, evasive Mage who is fixated on a dangerous pursuit. Svelte and poised, she has a calculating hazel gaze. Curling ashen tresses are drawn into a high ponytail, nearly to her waist, and out of the way when she’s experimenting with substances beyond her control.

Fragments from the past:

A quiet glade, on a detour the caravan took one summer, but she’s never been able to find it since

Eavesdropping on Elvish conversations, picking up tidbits of gossip and information, mostly for her own amusement

The aftermath: the last time she allowed herself to be horrified, grasping for logic and finding none

Her familiar dorm room in the Circle, the drawers filled with scribbled notes in a cipher of her own devising, desiccated roses, and the wrought leftovers of one project after another

The cold gaze of that smith whose doorstep she haunted for a few weeks, warning her never to get too close as metal scraps were tossed her way

Art: Picrew

***

Name: Kalmia Metella / Callsign: Serenity

Gender and Pronouns: Female, she/her / Sexuality: Demisexual

Age: 21 / Heritage: Hunter / High Stat: Razor Wits / Low Stat: Silver Tongue

Weapon: Bow / Specialization: Healer / Education: Self-taught

Tarot: The Lovers / Flower Day: Ysk 10

Description: A gentle, sensitive Mage who struggles with a definitive place in the world. Waves of dark hair, except for a streak of pure white, cascade down her back and contrast with intense violet eyes. Despite a soft-spoken exterior, she demonstrates a surprising willpower under pressure.

Fragments from the past:

Her childhood bedroom, only adorned with some bundled flowers and herbs that her mother taught her how to dry

After the funeral, Father explained she’d be alive for so much longer than everyone else in Maj would, and his face blurred in a flood of anguished tears

The aftermath: uncontrollable shivering in despair, fearful stumbling in the darkness, wondering if she was going mad

His sticky voice and stickier touch, but at least, all that’s left are memories and those can’t hurt anyone else

The Sweetleaf Shop in Leore, the kind voices of the women living there, the earthy scents of freshly made tinctures, words of comfort and perseverance

Art: Picrew

***

Name: Linaria Enris / Nicknames: Lin, Lina (I recognize the irony and I’m so sorry, if it helps it’s with a short i) / Callsign: Insight

Gender and Pronouns: Female, she/her / Sexuality: Straight

Age: 21 / Heritage: Ket / High Stat: Bright Mind / Low Stat: Razor Wits

Weapon: Sword / Specialization: Enchanter / Education: Self-taught

Tarot: Justice / Flower Day: Leph 40

Description: A sincere, empathetic Mage who yearns for a greater purpose. Her plain brown hair is fluffed around her ears and over almond-shaped eyes the color of chocolate. An earnest worker, she usually has a thoughtful, polite expression, but her laughter can be heard easily too.

Fragments from the past:

Lighting candles by the windows and reading quietly, keeping vigil for Dad until his rough palm awkwardly patted her head

Trying to do chores the way Mom used to, hoping to prove she can take care of the house on her own, no need to worry

The aftermath: essentially catatonic, until dawn came and she realized how cold she was

A bookseller’s stall, of incense and a sour voice complaining about his arthritis and insisting she keep the books he’s stolen, until he abruptly fired her for reasons she still doesn’t know

Scribe jobs in later years, her hands cramped and smeared with ink, her smile fixed on even as she received only a fraction of what she was owed

Art: Picrew

***

Name: Gentian Arke / Callsign: Messenger

Gender and Pronouns: Male, he/him / Sexuality: Demisexual

Age: 27 / Heritage: Ket / High Stat: Silver Tongue / Low Stat: Razor Wits

Weapon: Sword / Specialization: Binder / Education: Self-taught

Tarot: The Hermit / Wreath Day: Kthili 24

Description: A reserved, considerate Mage who hides deep-seated guilt behind a soft smile. His long locks are mistaken for black unless in full sunlight, where it reveals its bluish sheen. The sea is reflected in his kind gaze, and his agile build has been wracked with battle scars over the years.

Fragments from the past:

Running along the shoreline, feet splashing in the retreating waves and a salty breeze in his face, without a care in the world

Joking around with his cousins, winning gonen games, and fishing for the best catch

The aftermath: broken and hollow and worthless

That one time he had to crossdress in a ploy to retrieve his captain’s long-lost trinket from a gambling tournament and his alias became known as a devastatingly infamous heartbreaker, much to his eternal embarrassment

Fighting corsairs on rain-slick decks or bandits on the mail routes, numbly pondering over just giving up someday, but never managing to do it

Art: Picrew

***

Name: Alcea Keernyth / Nicknames: Als, Alci / Callsign: Lacewing

Gender and Pronouns: Female, she/her / Sexuality: Bisexual

Age: 22 / Heritage: Elf / High Stat: Bright Mind / Low Stat: Nerves of Steel

Weapon: Dagger / Specialization: Conjurer / Education: Circle trained

Tarot: Wheel of Fortune / Flower Day: Camoa 35

Description: A bubbly, affectionate Mage who has an appetite for anything interesting. She often dashes to her current destination, wherever that may be, leaving the impression of flying golden chin-length curls. Her gray eyes sparkle with curiosity and enthusiasm, never entirely quenched.

Fragments from the past:

Coaxing vividly colored butterflies into her hands, pretending to wear them as if they were jewels

Peeking her head out to take in every sight they passed by, her parents humming traveling songs, lulling her to sleep

The aftermath: immediate denial, it’s all a terrible dream

The library in Capra, thumbing through so many books and cursing that she wasn’t an inch taller to reach some of the higher shelves, eventually stacking the fattest tomes she’d already gone through as makeshift stairs

A trio of ragtag burglars, barely into their teens, rummaging through some noble’s room, while she kept an eye out for anyone who’d throw them back into jail

Art: Picrew

***

Name: Valeriana Stiln / Nickname: Valia (only if you earn it) / Callsign: Exacter

Gender and Pronouns: Female, she/her / Sexuality: Bisexual

Age: 23 / Heritage: Norm / High Stat: Nerves of Steel / Low Stat: Silver Tongue

Weapon: Bow / Specialization: Battle-Mage / Education: Journeyman

Tarot: Death / Flower Day: Zellea 38

Description: A fearless, practical Mage who nurses a jaded outlook on life. Dark red hair is gathered into a hefty bun more often than not, and long-lashed onyx eyes critically survey everything. She walks with a brisk stride full of intent, her capable hands bearing calluses from labor and old fights.

Fragments from the past:

Mother combing her hair in their morning ritual, “I love this color so much, Valia, you should keep it long”

The poison-dripping fangs of a snake the Westwood kids found in a trough, then its scales spattered with blood as she lifted the nearest axe and chopped it to pieces

The aftermath: repeating no’s, louder and louder, building to a drawn-out scream, until her throat was raw

After so many years, finding some bottles of the cologne Father wore and spending a half year’s worth of her mercenary’s pay, always dabbing a few drops on her wrists and neck

White-blond hair and a tattooed insignia, any tendrils of affection withered by that crystal clear scene of betrayal

Art: Picrew

***

Name: Senna Tulward / Callsign: Guardian

Gender and Pronouns: Female, she/her / Sexuality: Pansexual

Age: 23 / Heritage: Norm / High Stat: Silver Tongue / Low Stat: Bright Mind

Weapon: Gun / Specialization: Diviner / Education: Journeyman

Tarot: Temperance / Flower Day: Coppersun 6

Description: A congenial, faithful Mage who searches for a new place to call home. She has wavy chestnut hair falling a little past her shoulders, and an amiable amber gaze. She typically sports a pleasant, carefree smile, and her statuesque frame is actually very sturdy and athletic.

Fragments from the past:

Singing hymns she knew by heart and clasping her mother’s soft hands in the neighborhood’s temple

Cinnamon and warm honey on her birthday breakfast toast, Father sneaking her an extra slice when no one else was looking

The aftermath: confusion and failed searches, calling out the names of people who would never answer

Magic lessons under a starry sky, her teacher’s careful voice over the melody of crickets, the smell of campfire smoke, her warm sleeping bag

A dry ruin, whirling gritty sands, the sniffling lost little girl and a bleating goat she’s taking cover with, villagers hurling accusations and bullets at her upon their emergence from the storm

Art: Picrew

***

[greyfongschemmenti]

Hesitate 6|15

FryeArcana

Chapter 6

There's Your Headline, Folks

Just when you think Korra can't get on your nerves even more, you find out she's on a pro-bending team and has a gala in her honor. What are your thoughts as the events occurs.

You’re running in a full on sprint after the culprit down an alley way. He tosses some garbage pails to block your page and setting them on fire. You jump over and bend a piece of earth to lift you up and you in the air. The guy looks back and sees you gone thinking he is in the clear but once he turns back around you land right in front of him and give him a smirk.

“hey there eh officer” he nervously gives you a wave before he tries to make another run for it before you grab him by the collar and push him back to the wall and start cuffing him.

“so what you steal this time, two-toed ping?” you mumbled as you take a look inside the bag

“I don’t what you are talking about officer, I got nothing” he nervously spoke out as he tries to move but your hand on the center of his back prevents him to budge.

“you did a whole lot of running for nothing. I would’ve thought that whole little scene with the Avatar would’ve cooled you off.”

Two Toed Ping just mumbled some nonsense about the Avatar you walk him back down the alley way where Office Song is there to help bring Two Toed Ping in the back of the squad car.

“eh…nice job, kid. You barely even used your bending.” Officer Song smirked as he tapped your shoulder.

“it was no sweat, I like the chase and close combat. I only use it in case things go sour. Nothing I can’t handle” you cross your arms and smirk, triumphant in the way you handled yourself.

“let’s get going and book this guy” Officer Song got in the squad car and you hop in and drive back to the station. Where two officers come and walk Two Toed Ping to a cell and book him.

“We should name a cell after you Ping.” You laugh as you watch the booking process happen in front of you and you go to your desk and start writing up the report.

Towards the end of your shift things started to cool down and you decide on your break to head to the training ground and do a workout.

You metalbend your armor off leaving you in your usual black tank and wrap up your hands with some bands then start to work at your close range hits on a punching bag filled with sand.

You work on your jabs and kicks, picking up a sweat and you pant not noticing the audience at the doorway. You turn back and notice Lin watching you.

“uh…hey Chief. Did you want to use the space?” you stood up straight about to start unwrapping your bands to give Lin the space.

“As you were, I was just walking by when I heard someone training.”

You smile as you catch your breath “yeah, figured I work on my fighting skills. Keep my skills up and stay in shape. I don’t want to end up like Lu or Gang” you can’t help but snicker

Lin groans “those two imbeciles…well you got that right. I heard about the arrest you made earlier today. Song said you didn’t need any assistance out there. Nice work.”

“is that… am I hearing a compliment from the Chief?” you look at her and cross your arms raising an eyebrow at her.

“forget I said anything” Lin mutters and turns to walk away.

“wait…. thanks it means a lot coming from you… Chief” you jog over to her and say softly. Lin doesn’t turn around to face you, but you can see at the corner of her mouth rise up a bit before she continues on walking.

*

After your shower you head over to Lin’s office and see her as usual sitting at her desk with papers in her hands. You feel Dejavu from the night prior and knock on the door frame. Lin doesn’t look up and keeps looking over her reports and just simply states “what is it now?”

“I was going to press my luck and see if you wanted to catch the final pro-bending match tonight” you leaned against the door frame crossing your arms as you wait for Lin to respond

Lin stops raising an eyebrow as she glances up at you surprised that you’re inviting her to an event. You start to wonder if it was a mistake to ask in the first place by the way she is looking at you that you gulp in fear.

She exhales and as she produces a frown “sorry kid, I’ve slacked off enough yesterday. The last thing I want is to backlog and spirits know how much I hate backlogs.”

“oh..” you slowly breath out. You thought you were going to get chewed out for interrupting her peace but that seemed like a nice rejection. It sucks but better than to get yelled at.

“it’s alright, perfectly understandable. Maybe another time” you give her a warm smile and lean off the door frame as you start to turn away.

“…thanks, y/n” you hear Lin mutter out

“what’s that chief?” you stop mid turn and look back at her

“for the invite…thanks for considering me”

You give a small smile “anytime chief, have a nice night” you wave goodbye as you grab your jacket and helmet from your bottom drawer and head out to the rest of the evening before going to the arena.

*

You take a seat and wait for the match to start, alone this time, even though it was one time you can’t help but miss sharing experiences with someone. You notice a different person coming up into the ring for the Ferrets “what happened with Hasook?” you mumble as you look out confused.

You hear the announcer through the speakers “a last-minute replacement waterbender. Let’s see if she’s another diamond in the rough, like the brothers from the school of hard knocks.”

“huh, a girl, not bad…” you smirk a bit. It’s nice to see women join in the fun. You watch with anticipation for the match to start, then shortly hear the ref blow his whistle to commence the match. You watch as the girl just water side kicks her waterbender opponent to the side of the ring and your jaw drops. “what the flameo was that?!” you mutter out. A couple of fans look at you, a couple of chuckles and groans fill the area in comedic and irritation that this girl is wither playing dirty or doesn’t know how to play at all.

You watch the girl just bending but not really playing along the rules of the game and steps over the line on her zone. You slap your face in aggravation, “man where did they get this girl, off the streets? I can play better than that!” you mutter out. Round one over. Platypus bear take the point.

Round two starts and the opposing team show signs of just taking out the waterbender girl since she is obviously the weak link in the Ferrets. You watch at the three platypus bear players basically bully this girl and they all send a hit to her then watch as she blocks their hits by…what is that… Earthbending?! You spit out your drink not sure that was exactly what you saw, and it seems like you and the announcer saw the same thing because right on queue you both say “wait a minute, did that waterbender just earth bend?!” you look over at the ref he’s not sure what call to make. Nothing like this has happened before.

You get up and look at the girl to get a better view while listening to the announcer. “I think this replacement player could be— no there’s no way…”

“there’s no way” you mutter as you walk over closer to the edge. Hoping that it wasn’t the person you think it is.

“…You’ve got to be kidding me. She’s the avatar, folks!"

“Korra?!” you gasp out. Your eyes widening when you finally see Korra’s face in the ring.

“what the hell is she doing playing in a pro-bending match?!” you irritated to see her out there. Does Tenzin know about this? Instead of trying to balance the world she’s out here playing some game. You get upset when you hear the ref give her the clear to continue playing as long as she only water bends for the remainder of the match. You walk back to your seat and watch how the other team quickly and act more aggressively on knocking Korra out to the water.

You can’t help but smile. She deserves it. Round 2 goes to the platypus bears. At this point you start to ask yourself if it’s worth staying for the rest of the match. The Fire Ferrets are getting owned out there and Korra has no clue what she is doing out there. You can still hear the reports from the announcer as you get up “I think the Avatar’s debut is going to be cut short.”

you decide it’s best to leave and get ahead of traffic “She’s been pushed back to zone three, and the water is calling her name.” you walk up the steps towards one of the corridors ‘any moment now and it’s going to be over for them’ you think in your mind.

“it’s only a matter of time before—hold the phone. Stop the presses.” The announcer calls out and you stop at your pace surprised and turn around.

“huh?” you look out at the ring and see she’s still in the game…

“she’s moving like an entirely different player”

You watch her move with more fluidity almost like…” a leaf” you mutter under your breath as you watch intently at Korra’s moves. Notice how the platypus bears are losing energy and watch the Fire Ferrets start making their move and give the team all they got pulling in a surprising knock out.

“well how about that” you mutter out in disbelief then stand up straight and turn back around and walk out.  You mount your cycle and glance back at the arena before putting your helmet on and speed back to your place. You can’t believe you actually saw what occurred in there. You still don’t like the girl but, what you witnessed was nice.

You stand out on your terrace of your apartment and look out at the night life and the calming waves of the water from the canal.

*

Since that final pro-bending match two nights ago you got assigned patrol duty and can’t help but get bored. At least the chief let you use your cycle instead of the squad car. You don’t mind the car but, you feel like you can move more freely with your cycle, it’s easier to move down the streets with a bike than a large car. You’re driving down the street you notice Asami talking to some guy, he looks pretty scuffed up and on the ground. You speed up and pull up on the side of the street.

“everything okay out here?” you call out as you take your helmet off walking over to Asami as she is getting ready to mount back on her moped.

“y/n! yeah all good. Kind of bumped into him with my moped, but we’re all good” Asami calls out to you

Mako eyes widen as his cheeks reddens, “yeah officer, it’s all good. Just little scratches! No need involving the police”

You eye Mako then back at Asami “you sure?”

Asami smiles and puts a hand on your shoulder “yes, I’m treating him to dinner at Kwong’s Cuisine.”

You smile back and lean over to her “you know when they say you can sweep a guy off their feet they don’t actually mean to sweep him off his feet, especially with a moped, Sami” you laugh which brings Asami to laugh as well

Mako stands there confused “wait, you two know each other?”

You stand there raising an eyebrow “I thought was that a given, when she called me out by name. That bump must’ve hit your head”

“uh…uh no I’m good honest. Sorry just ugh not sure why I’m all flustered.” Mako rubs the back of his neck

“look it’s all good, you both say it’s fine. You’ve came up with a compromise and it looks like neither one of you are going to press charges, so I’m just going to let it slide.” You shrug as you cross your arms motion your hand in a sliding motion.

“but since she’s inviting you to dinner, and as a close friend of Asami, you better be on your best behavior, and since you know I’m a cop you know what’ll happen if you don’t” you walk towards him with a stern and serious tone in your voice.

“aww, come on, don’t scare him off, y/n” Asami stops you putting a hand on your shoulder.

“sorry Sami can’t help but be protective of my friends” you smile and stand down then exhale and regain your composure.

“I’m y/n” you extend your hand out towards Mako to introduce yourself

“Mako, it’s nice to meet you” he takes your hand and returns the gesture.

“alright well now since we got the introductions out the way, and before we start holding up traffic, let’s move out the street and go on our different ways” you look at both of them and they give you a nod as you walk back to your cycle

“I see you still have the cycle, how’s it running y/n?” Asami yells out

“perfect as always, Asami, thanks to you” you smile and put your helmet on then give them a wave and drive off.

*

“what’s the gala for?” you can’t help but ask as you stand in the middle of Lin’s office. She asked you once again if you could handle the security for it while she unfortunately had to make an appearance as the chief of police

“Tarrlok had the grandest idea to throw a gala in the "Avatar’s honor". Since it’s the avatar, every important figure will be there to see her.” She groans and rolls her eyes putting her hand on her hip as she over looks the plans of security.

“A gala for the Avatar?” you mutter in disbelief “what she do to get a gala? Man, she takes two steps in the city and they are parading her like some sort of celebrity. She doesn’t deserve the attention.” You frown and start getting annoyed. You try to listen to Asami’s advice in your head, but this girl is making it difficult to like her.  

“are you going to handle yourself or am I going to have to replace you with someone else?” Lin groans in annoyance as she looks at you

“I can do it, Chief.” You gather your senses and give her a salute before walking out and start looking over the security intel for the gala.

*

You look around and see all the important figures in politics to greet Avatar Korra. Your eyes scan and you can’t help but land on Lin. You watch her walk thru the crowd in her chief uniform and notice she gets called out by Tarrlok. You glance around making sure everything is going accordingly then walk closer surveilling as you do, not losing focus on the job. Even if this night is for Korra you are going to do a good job at it.

You get close enough to hear Lin give Korra some words. “Just because the city’s throwing you this big to-do, don’t think you’re something special. You’ve done absolutely nothing to deserve this.” She looks at Korra with a snare and immediately walks away as she continues on. You can’t help but smirk trying your best not to laugh, that wouldn’t be professional and walk back to your post.

Lin looks at you as you return to your post. “what are you doing out of place, y/n?” she barks at you

“I thought there was a disturbance in the eastern wing but turned out to be unnecessary banter and laughs. I returned back as soon as it was handled.” You look at her as you face the audience with your arms behind your back.

Lin doesn’t say much but you can tell she does not want to be here. You both stand there in silence for the remainder of the night.

You walk away from Lin and check the perimeter before returning back to her and notice Tarrlok escort Korra down the stairs where there are numerous reporters and start ambushing her with questions about the Equalists.

“Why have you refused to join Tarrlok’s task force? As the Avatar, shouldn’t you be going after Amon”

“You promised to serve this city. Are you going back on that promise now?”

“Do you think pro-bending is more important than fighting the revolution?” oof you knew that question was going to be brought up.

You watch these reporters eat Korra out with more questions than she can answer. Then hear a reporter ask her the one that seems to really hit her nerves.

“Are you afraid of Amon?”

You look at Korra and see her explode “I’m not afraid of anybody! If the city needs me, then I’ll join Tarrlok’s task force and help fight Amon.”

Tarrlok quickly grabs hold of Korra with suspicious excitement “there’s your headline, folks” and watch as all the reporters take photographs. You’re surprised by Korra’s outburst. You eye Tarrlok and start to think this whole gala and swarm of reporters was just a way for him to push Korra to join his agenda.  You can’t help but look over at Lin who also has surprise imprinted on her face and she glances back at you.

“okay that’s enough, you got what you wanted.” Lin barks out at the reporters as she walks through the crowd and you and a couple of officers escort the press out of the building. Soon the gala dies down and you and Lin make sure the area is cleared and secure.

You walk out of the building behind Lin “is Korra really going to join Tarrlok’s task force?”

“you heard her didn’t you” she mutters out annoyingly

“yeah, but she was manipulated by Tarrlok. You saw it” you look at her

“her fault for falling for his schemes.” She shrugged off not caring

“yeah, I guess” you mumble out as Lin gets in the squad car

“where’s your cycle?” Lin looks around then back at you

��oh I caught a ride with the rest of the squad, but they all headed out after I dismissed them after the clearance. It’s fine I can walk.” You shrug and start walking down the sidewalk.

“hop in” she mutters as she drives by slowly “I can give you a ride back at the station”

“really? Don’t want to bother you” you look at her

“hop in before I regret the offer” she barked out

You hop over the door not wasting any time and she drives off.

You are looking out at the city lights with a frown trying to think of something then look at Lin “you know I just realized that I’ve never offered to take you out for a spin”

“yeah, no thanks” Lin just grumbles

“come on, I would think you being Chief, means you like excitement and danger. Feel the adrenaline while you’re on a bike.” You smile feeling the excitement just thinking about getting on riding your bike.

“maybe one day just not today” she mutters

“cool, I’ll plan it” you smile then look pensively “so do you not like the Avatar too? I couldn’t help but overhear your statement as I walked by during my sweep”

Lin glances over then looks back at the road. “she just didn’t deserve the gala. I meant what I said”

“well I agree, until…” you trail off

“until?”

“until it was just a ploy to get Korra to do what Tarrlok wanted, which was for her to join his task force” you look back at the event and analyzed everything that happened.

“hmm, with a mind like yours, you can move up fast and become detective” she stated as she stopped at a stop sign.

“you really think so? Detective would be nice” you smile slyly as Lin proceeds with caution down the street

*

“you did good work at the gala tonight, you actually kept your head clear and focus. Even with the Avatar there” Lin called out from her car as you got on your cycle.

“yeah, I’m not letting the her get to me. it was a one-time thing.” You shrug as you start your cycle

“I’ll see you tomorrow?” Lin looks at you

“actually I got scheduled off, but I can come in if you need me too though” you were about to put your helmet on but stopped midway

“no, it’s fine. Get some rest” you nod at her as you put your helmet on and head on home.

Long day and night, but at least you were able to watch Lin at the gala no matter how hard you tried to keep your eyes off of her and focus, your eyes would always glance back. it’s always nice when your night ends with moments with Lin. Though you can’t help but wonder what are Tarrlok’s plans with Korra.

[westallenfun]

Diamonds at Jitters - 1/1

WestAllen secret santa gift 

From: @backtothestart02

For: @lyta2323

Note: I hope you enjoy! I hinted at it in parts, but this is a sequel to my fic, Love at Jitters, if you haven’t read it.

Synopsis: College!AU - It’s Christmas Eve. Barry has a special surprise for Iris.

.

The snow fell light and fluffy outside Iris’ window, signifying winter had finally come to Central City. And on Christmas Eve no less.

She had a date with Barry later – they’d managed to squeeze an hour into their calendars for just the two of them amidst family gatherings where they showed up part of the time for both their families and extended families. Iris couldn’t explain why, but she was unspeakably nervous. Not that there was anything to be nervous about, but still. It had been 10 and a half months since their first impromptu date. They’d been through a lot – Iris’ birthday, meeting the parents, Iris’ brother, Barry’s idol, their best friends/roommates, a handful of not-very-serious arguments, and probably the most passionate sex Iris had ever been party to.

But Christmas. Christmas felt big.

Iris’ phone buzzed on her vanity where she stood applying her make-up and making sure this pair of earrings was truly the one for this particular short-sleeved, black velvet dress with matching heels.

Seeing the name, she smiled, and hit the answer button and then the speaker.

“Hey, Lin. What’s up?”

“You sound happy,” Linda Park said, cheeky as ever.

“It’s Christmas Eve. What would I have to be unhappy about? It’s my favorite holiday. And-”

“You’re hoping Barry goes down on bended knee.”

Iris nearly choked on her own breath.

“W-What?” she wheezed.

“Aha! I knew it!” Linda cheered.

“You don’t know anything,” Iris said, trying to get herself focused again now that her lipstick had been drawn in a crooked line across the bottom of her cheek. “Barry is not proposing tonight.”

“You don’t know that.”

“I do know that. We’re having a romantic dinner just the two of us, and then we’re going to his side of the family and then mine tomorrow.”

“So. Just the two of you, huh?”

Iris sighed and rolled her eyes. There was no stopping her best friend when she got ahead of herself.

“What are you doing tonight? Are you getting together with Peter again?”

She gagged through the phone.

“I guess that’s a no.”

“That’s an ‘oh, God, no’.”

“Did something happen? I thought you really liked him.”

“Uh-uh. My body liked his body.”

“Ah.”

“Once he started talking about his life and his job and his passions…oh, my god, I couldn’t stand it.”

Iris chuckled to herself.

“So, what are you doing then?” There was a moment of silence. “Lin?”

“Hmm? Oh, um… you know…”

“Don’t tell me you’re spending Christmas Eve alone.”

“What?” she squeaked. “No way. I’m a party animal, you know that.”

“Oh, yeah? So whose party are you going to?”

“Well, now nobody’s, since the biggest party of the year Peter will be at.” She frowned, disappointed in the predicament she’d created for herself.

“I can cancel,” Iris started to say, but even as she did, she was glad Linda cut her off with a negative. Despite the weird nerves she had, she was really looking forward to seeing Barry tonight and exchanging gifts. She didn’t want to cancel.

“No. You are not canceling. No way in hell am I gonna let you miss your own proposal.”

Iris rolled her eyes, but she was smiling.

“Okay, so what are you going to do then? I can’t have my best friend all alone on Christmas Eve. Single shouldn’t mean solitary confinement.”

Linda blew locks out of her face.

“Don’t you have a brother?”

Iris brows narrowed. “Linda, no.”

“I’m not gonna sleep with him,” she said, appalled.

“Good,” Iris said. “He’s practically a baby. And he just got out of a serious relationship.”

“How serious could it be if they’re still teenagers?”

The silent tension could be cut with a knife.

“Okay, okay…just thought he could use some company. Like, the platonic kind. Maybe ice skating? I used to do that with my brother back home.”

Iris was skeptical but finally reluctantly agreed.

“I’ll give him a call.”

“Great! Maybe I can get him to drink the spicy hot cocoa they have at the rink this year. I bet it’ll blow his mind.”

“He doesn’t like spicy food.”

“Even better.”

Iris’ wariness increased tenfold.

“Relax,” Linda said. “I’ll bring him back in one piece and untouched. You have my word.”

With everything inside her, Iris really wanted to believe her best friend.

“I’ll talk to you later, Lin.”

“Later, Babe.”

Click.

Trying to put the image of her player of a best friend and her sweetheart of an 18-year-old baby brother aside, Iris nearly jumped when the phone buzzed again. But this time she was ready – her make-up fixed and earrings chosen – even as her cheeks burned with anticipation.

“Hey, Barry,” she said, almost a purr.

“Hey.” His lovestruck tone melted her always. “You ready?”

She nodded, biting her bottom lip as she started to fantasize about undressing him – until she realized he couldn’t see her.

“Iris?”

“Ah, yes, I’m ready. I’ll be down in a sec.”

“Okay. I’ll meet you in the lobby.”

“’Kay.”

Five minutes later Iris was downstairs looking at the nervous wreck that was her boyfriend pacing back and forth in the lobby.

“Babe,” she called out, more than once because he was so absorbed in his own thoughts to register her voice. Finally though, he stopped pacing and looked at her and his jaw dropped.

Iris slid her warm wrap down her arms so he could get a full look at her dress.

“Not too shabby, huh?” She grinned, her eyes twinkling.

He closed the space between them and took her in his arms.

“I’d ravish you right here if we didn’t have plans for the night,” he said against her lips.

“And if there weren’t cameras,” she said, pointing them out to him.

His shoulders slumped, and she laughed, adoring every second of the expressions that crossed his face.

“We can do this though,” she said, wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling his face down to hers for a quick greeting kiss.

“Mmm, that’s pretty good,” he murmured against her lips. “How about another one?”

She granted his request but then made a point to pull away just as he started to take charge with the clear intention of a passionate make-out right there in her apartment lobby.

“We have a date,” she whispered, and he sighed.

“Yes…yes, we do.” Then he jumped back, eyes wide. “We do!”

Iris laughed and looked at him strangely.

“So…should we go then?” she asked.

“Yes!” He grinned. “Let’s go.”

He took her hand in his, pulled her out of the building, and revealed to her their mode of transportation for the night.

A long stretch limo with their own personal driver.

“Ms.?” The driver opened the back door for her to step in.

“I…thank you.” She slipped into the vehicle and Barry rounded the other side. “Barry,” she half-scolded. “This had to have cost you a fortune. I know it’s Christmas Eve, but-”

He silenced her with a drugging kiss.

“Mmm, okay, talk later.”

He grinned against her lips and gave the driver the signal to drive to their destination.

…

A cold wind whipped against her face as Barry led her up a long, winding staircase with his hands over her eyes.

“Barry, are you sure this is the most practical thiii-” She gasped, tripping over a step.

Wrapped around her back, Barry made sure she wouldn’t fall.

“Probably not,” he said. “But we’re almost there.”

“Almost where?”

Barry peeled his hands away as soon as he guided her through the final door.

At first glance, the table set before them looked like a beautifully romantic setting on the top of an otherwise bare rooftop. But for Iris, she knew exactly where they were.

“Jitters?” she blanched, turning to face him – which was difficult when she was facing the candlelit table for two with roses and lights and two men, one playing violin and the other a cello, whisking her away into a romantic fairytale.

But she managed, because damn it, she was in love with the man who had prepared it all.

Barry chuckled.

“There’s no surprising you, is there?”

She shook her head, a million questions buzzing in her mind.

“It feels special to us – or to me at least. I mean, it’s where we-”

“First met,” she finished, smiling.

“Yeah,” he said softly.

When she said nothing more, he guided her to the table and pulled her chair back for her to sit on. Then he rounded the small table and nodded to the musicians to begin.

“This is so romantic, Barry,” she marveled sometime later when he was pouring champagne.

“Is that your way of saying you like it?”

“I love it, and you know it.”

Barry’s eyes twinkled when their eyes met.

“I was hoping you would.”

“I should’ve expected something like this, but I just…didn’t, I guess. But wow, Barry, I’m…” She licked her lips. “I’m in love.”

She’d said the words before, and to him too, but it never ceased having an effect on him, one that was drugging for her to witness.

“I’ll never get tired of you saying that,” he said, then reached across the table to take her hand in his own and kiss the back. “I’m in love too.”

“With me,” she said, her eyelashes fluttering of their own accord.

“With you,” he confirmed, and pressed his forehead into her palm.

Iris didn’t know how much more of this she could stand. She’d gotten nervous over the prospect of him proposing tonight when Linda had teased her about it, but now she couldn’t imagine him not doing it. Not on such a perfect night as this. She imagined telling all her friends and family – Barry better have asked her dad for his permission to marry her or he’d have a fit. Tradition was tradition, and Joe West took it very seriously.

But she wasn’t worried. Barry Allen was the only boyfriend her dad had actually taken to, even if it took some family game nights to get him to that place.

God, could he just ask her already? He didn’t even need a ring right now. If he would just ask, she would say yes. She wanted to so badly it almost hurt.

“Dance with me,” she said, the soft music and gentle wind blowing around them. The December chill was nothing. The heat rising off their skin kept them warm.

Barry lifted his head and smiled. Then the two of them walked a little ways from the table and began slow-dancing.

“I love you, Iris,” he whispered, his face against the top of her head as she rested hers against his chest.

“I love you, Barry,” she said, voice muffled against his jacket but clear as day to his ears.

“I hope it’s not too much to say I think we’re destined to be together…”

She shook her head against him. It used to bother her when his certainty regarding fate and destiny and them was used so early in their relationship. But now she believed it almost as fervently as he did.

“Not too much, Bear.”

He licked his lips. “You sure?”

Iris smiled and looked up at him.

“Our second date was you taking me to meet your parents. If I didn’t run away then, I’m never going to.”

He sucked in a breath. “Good to know.”

She pulled his head down and gave him a sweet kiss as the music carried on the wind.

“Oh, Iris,” he murmured, pressing his forehead against hers.

“What?” she teased, loving when she made him weak in the knees.

“I really wanted to wait until after we’d eaten.”

Her eyes flashed open.

“Wait for what?”

He pulled back and dug around in his pocket for what felt like an eternity.

“Oh, my God…” fell past her lips when she saw the size and shape of the velvet box in his hands.

His gentle smile turned into a smirk.

“What… What is that?” She couldn’t look him in the eye. She was almost shaking.

“Your Christmas present.”

“Huh?”

Her brows furrowed as disappointment engulfed her. Maybe it wasn’t an engagement ring after all. It could be earrings for all she knew. And here she’d let Linda’s claims get to her, convincing her she’d be engaged by the end of the night.

But then he got down on one knee, and he opened the little velvet box, and the most dazzling engagement ring shone up at her, sparkling in the moonlight, candlelight, and Christmas lights strung around the rooftop.

“Iris West…”

She swallowed hard.

“A lot of people would say you and me meeting at Jitters 10 months ago was just a coincidence, but I don’t believe that. You know I don’t. I’m not a ‘It’s just pure luck’ guy. I’m a ‘there’s no coincidences’ guy. You walked into my life right when I needed it, and now, Iris…I can’t imagine my life without you. I love you with my whole heart, and I always will.”

He pulled the ring from its case and stuffed the box back in his pocket. He took her hand in his and let the ring hover over the tip of her ring finger.

“Will you marry me?”

Tears filled her eyes and she nodded for several seconds before she could speak.

“Yes! Yes! Of course I’ll marry you, YES!!!”

Barry slid the ring onto her finger, then jumped to his feet and kissed her. The musicians clapped wildly before starting a peppy tune as Barry picked Iris up and spun her around, inhaling her light giggles like oxygen before setting her down again.

Smiling so much her cheeks hurt, Iris finally lifted the diamond to eye-level.

“Wow, it’s beautiful, Barry. Really.”

He smiled, proud of his selection.

“I’m never taking it off.”

“Well, maybe in the shower…or for dishes…”

“Nope. Never. It’s mine now. It’s never coming off.”

He swooned, staring at her, never looking away.

“Besides,” she said innocently before looking up at him. “Who says I’m going to do the dishes?”

His jaw dropped, and she laughed. He got up and leaned across the table and kissed her to silence them.

Then his suit caught on fire from the candlelight, and Iris threw her glasses of champagne and water on him to stop the flames.

“Well, at least it happened after the proposal,” he said, and Iris stood up again, pulling him away.

“Dance with me again,” she said, and he wrapped his arms around her, guiding her into a slow spin. She kicked off her heels and drew herself closer to him.

“I’ll never stop,” he said, and she knew this time he wasn’t talking about dancing.

She felt the shivers trickle down her spine as she repeated the sentiment.

“Don’t ever.”

[advernia]

moved this over to a text post, hope u don’t mind anon! ( ᐛ )و

ANYWAY EEEEEE THANK YOU AND I’D BE MORE THAN HAPPY TO SHARE!!!! o(*≧□≦)o tbh this headcanon is me 100% refusing to accept that post-route!alice just stays in red/black army hq as a… uh, maid??? cook??? cheerleader??? idk lmao but imo alice has a lot of potential with her canon profession lolol! okay so maybe they did her justice in kyle’s route bc she ends up as his assistant but as for other routes fight me cybird (ง •̀_•́)ง

context side a

i got the idea after reading fenrir’s dramatic end, where alice gets a job in cradle’s best confectionery (like wow lmao if only getting a job was that fast irl). anyway!!! i’d like to dream that alice does this for all routes + a month after the route events (sans kyle’s). you’d think she doesn’t need to get a job especially if her ikeman’s part of the red army, but she does this bc she wants to. and to feel less like a freeloader lmao. since the situation’s different with the neutrals, this isn’t much of an issue.

so, yay! she feels better about passing time productively + having her own lin to spend but tbh she doesn’t really buy much stuff???? eventually she saves up quite the amount that it becomes a problem - what could/should she do with that much cash????

tbh the idea to start her own business came from her boss lol…. it started from his objective assessment that she was good enough to open her own shop… eventually she starts entertaining the idea…. then she gets second opinions from friends + ikeman…. and she actually does it after much consideration?!??! her boss is shook, but he wishes her well anyway! he gets a free slice of cake whenever he visits the cafe lol!

so alice ends up with a cafe! since confectioneries were more on selling than service + she’s on her own now & has a lot of stuff to handle on her own, she becomes pretty busy and takes some time to adjust, but eventually she gets by! it’s tiring, but she enjoys her every day!

any of her extra profits she chooses to donate to various causes + she eventually ends up becoming some sort of sponsor to the armies with all her donations HELLA RAD ೕ(•̀ᴗ•́)

context side b

alternatively, in a common route scenario where amon still gets his ass kicked + alice stays in cradle but doesn’t fall in love with that one ikeman (no one falls in love…. not yet LMAO), she lives with the black/red army + works in a confectionery until she has enough to buy a home of her own. blanc + oliver + mousse have been secretly helping her scout around for a good place. it’s only when everything’s ready that she talks to the black/red army about her intentions.

get this - her general explanation goes this way: she starts off by saying that she’s very thankful that everyone has accommodated her and she’ll always be in their debt, but now that she’s living as an actual resident of cradle and no longer just a guest, she’d hate to impose on them any further. to boot, she’s not even an official part of the army + a soldier, so it may look odd that she’s still staying within army hq. stuff about reputation and pride, something like that.

the black army (see: seth) is sad about this, but they understand her sentiments and let her go. after a three-day long party. aaaaand of course, they’re more than willing to do any heavy lifting for her move + just anything in general - all she needed to do was ask!

the red army respects her decision as well, and they’re… more subtle in expressing their disappointment (how is jonah’s blatant frown even subtle lol). like the black army, they let her go + remind her that she can always ask them for help. 

so alice lives alone for a couple of months.... then the armies hear that she’s planning to open a cafe from blanc.... ha.... the black army totally helps her out with general recontrustion + repairs. she does not take no for an answer when she pays them for their work lmao. plus, they totally helped her out by giving her tours around the stalls on the central quarter market that give the best bargains + freshest produce! the flowers alice put up for decoration + plant outside her yard are always sponsored by canis major..... and seth drops by regularly to talk about trending aesthetics alice could adapt in the cafe!

the red army’s idea of helping her out with her cafe is to send her furniture + kitchen appliances + sets of tableware.... they’re gorgeous + simple but UMMMM????? alice literally panics about the kitchen, especially about the stove + oven bc it be so fine.... and expensive-looking.... but negotiating with lancelot + jonah is like talking to a brick + diamond wall so edgar + kyle + zero convince her to just take it lmao - it isn’t much, but lancelot gets a free drink & jonah a free mille-feuille each time they visit!

again: she donates to various causes + sends the black/red army a fair amount of her extra profits each month! she’d give more to the red army bc she still can’t get over their....... generous gifts and how much they probably cost lmao....... edgar stops her there though bc honestly..... do u think the red army needs more money??????????

the cafe

so why in central of all places? actually, it does make sense to set up a business there since it’s like the country’s central business district. but if i’d base it from alice’s general personality, i think she’d choose central bc that’s where every citizen of cradle; whether they be from red, black, or neutral territory, all gather together. in central, she can see every side living side cradle, not just red or black - and in a simple establishment like a cafe, something simple like food can bring all those different sides together.

she set up her cafe in central with the thought of helping in the efforts of bridging the gap between the armies + to have an actual experience of how it is to live as a citizen of cradle. technically she is one already, but sometimes living in cradle is really so different from living in london. it makes her feel displaced sometimes.

her cafe is probably somewhere close to blanc’s house or smth and u bet that blanc is very happy to have a pretty lady living close by/around his neighborhood lmao! but if you want to be serious about it, this is intentional on blanc’s part bc her safety isn’t exactly assured after the magic tower fiasco - disciple stragglers might come back for her, and since the whole of cradle already knows that she’s the alice the second, there may be other people/groups lurking around that are interested in her power......

in comparison to most cafes in central, alice’s place is relatively small - she doesn’t mind though, since she’s running the place on her own. the thought of expanding makes her doubt her capability of providing + distributing the same quality of service + attention she usually gives to a small crowd.

alice changes the cafe decors + scents according to each season!!! in general, she wants her cafe to have a homey, relaxing feel, doing her best to impart a feel of london + her hometown in her cafe. you’d think that seasonal redecorating would be a hassle, but magic makes that process very easy... once she learns about cradle’s unique holidays + festivals, she also redecorates + tweaks her menu in tune to the special day!

a variety of sandwiches + light meals such as pastas are on the menu now and then, but her cafe is well-known for the desserts. like the decor, the food + drink selection adjusts accordingly to the season.

her edge among her competitors is the fact that she’s from the land of reason - her techniques + use/handling of ingredients + and other assorted methods are quite different from that practiced in cradle since they have the advantage of magic. tastes, colors, textures, and even presentation end up differently. plus, she knows how to make various foods + sweets unfamiliar to cradle, so some of the stuff she makes are seen as novelty to the locals!

she does pay attention to what tastes of london are positively + negatively recepted in cradle though - from there she experiments or improvises her recipes, and seeks out feedback immediately.

following context side b, i’m all in for the romance with her ikeman developing here instead OH YEAAAH ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) it’s a lot more hectic tho since it’s an open playground and there are the.... common interferences..... coughsethcoughlokicough LMAO

also!!! following all the not-so-spoilery content of her + seth, i’ve recently been digging the idea of nojisha / rapunzel (localization ain’t being subtle anymore lol) working + possibly living in alice’s cafe too bc god knows that alice needs an actual girl friend among all that testosterone lmao!

rapunzel’s more of a waitress but is totally into designing whatever cakes + drinks + pastries alice has on the menu and on display… takes dibs in writing out the menu on the chalkboard as her chance to practice some pretty lettering… and also actively helps out alice in picking seasonal decors + packaging for the cafe!

on the sidelines rapunzel also keeps a close eye on alice bc… heh… them odd folks coming in for the foods but staying longer for the girl(s)… those red army officers dropping by more often even if they’re on patrol…. dudes from the civic center + other colorful characters talking so familiarly to alice…. yaaa~n! pick up the pace, onii-chan!!! lmao

depending on who’s the ikeman out for alice, rapunzel can and will cockblock, omfg...... she’ll totally stop if she sees that alice has mutual feelings for the guy but sometimes rapunzel really has impeccable, unintentional timing haha... seth hyde, what have u been teaching ur little sister smh (ಡ艸ಡ)

opening time: 6AM, closing: 7PM. accepts orders of wedding + birthday cakes, does not handle catering. for any inquiries, pls call....... (^ц^ )

other

alice’s cafe develops different reputations depending on who she ends up with LMAO........ local newspapers + cradle’s grapevine love her cafe and totally not bc they can get a glimpse of the red/black army chosen if they get their timing right haHA..... here’s a couple of examples:

if she’s with mousse, her cafe has quite the interesting reputation! while there’s a good selection of the local teas/coffees in her menu, there’s also a fair share of exotic blends with brief details about the country where the blend is from + how the beverage is prepared + possible tastes, written by no other than mousse himself! sometimes alice showcases some limited edition sweets + pastries made from an interesting mix of local and foreign ingredients + spices too......

if she ends up with a king, novels/tales + plays + songs/poems about royalty/nobility falling for the common worker (lancelot) or adventures of a hero and a maiden (ray) suddenly become a thing™….. the boom is especially huge in black/red territory, be it from nobles to commoners.... another common point??? there’s always a cafe referenced in there, a rendezvous point some way or another in the story… and it sounds veeeeery familiar, even if they switch the setting into a tavern/inn, hmmmm....

did you know that one cafe in central quarter is owned by alice the second, the woman who’s rumored to be the lover of cradle’s most notorious criminal + strongest wizard???? no???? are they really a thing??? do you think the stuff she sells in her cafe is fit is for consumption???? does she make those cakes herself or does she ask the wizard to make it through dark magic or are those smuggled goods??????? man, those cakes are damn good though!!!!!

newspaper headlines: students of cradle’s local boarding school promptly create a literal lake of tears in the central quarter after spending time and meeting a kind cafe owner who happens to really be their terror professor’s lover (side note: this article was removed upon the request of a certain mr. d.)

the sole exemption i have for this hc is kyle’s alice! she has her hands full + committing herself to being a doctor’s assistant so opening a cafe doesn’t cross her mind, but that doesn’t stop her from making treats now and then for their patients… in fact, becomes a thing among the children of cradle that if you be a good boy/girl who takes their medicine + shots from the redhead doctor without complaining, the pretty assistant lady will give you a tasty treat for being so well-behaved! (*≧▽≦)

[oohfluffy]

DDND Ch.6 | KJI

Group: EXO

Member: Kim Jongin

Theme: Fluff | Dancer!AU | Dormmmate!AU

Word Count: 2,889

❀Chapter 6: A Trick or A Treat? ❀

"EH?!"

"Yes, my love. We're gonna have a maid and butler café for Halloween."

You blinked as Joohyuk grins at you.

"I can't believe this!" Tiffany shrieked as she stomps her feet.

"You're annoyed too, unni--" Tiffany cuts you off with a pout.

"Why didn't they tell us sooner? I could've rented something cuter than the costume they bought."

You face-palmed yourself with a sigh.

"Can I see the costume?" You asked politely at your manager, Jongdae, the brother of Minseok, as he was passing by the counter.

He smiled at you and you feel like melting.

"So cute."

"Please wait for a second, I'll get it for you." Jongdae said as he took off back to the office.

After a few seconds, he came back with a black suit cover. He gently pushed it towards you.

"Here's one of the maid outfits you'll be wearing. I hope you like it."

You nodded with a sheepish smile and took the suit cover. You felt your friends look over your shoulders with an excited aura raging out of them.

You slowly opened the zipper and prayed that the costume won't be too revealing.

"Ooh! I'm so excited! Will it be like the ones in animes?! Kyah!" Tiffany said as she giggled behind you.

"Can you stop?" Joohyuk chuckled.

You finally shrugged the outfit off of the cover. Your eyes shined like diamonds in awe.

"Daebak." You mumbled.

"What? Is it okay? Does it look appealing?" Jongdae interrogated you as he observed all your reactions.

"This is AMAZING, manager-nim!" Tiffany shouted as she jumped up and down like a child.

"This will definitely suit you, Lin! Hahaha! Can't wait to see you in this!" Joohyuk laughed as he sees you in shock.

"Bring it on, buddy."

The maid costume is not that bad. It is not totally a dress since you have white long-sleeved polo inside, a black cloth skirt-jumper for the outside that ends above the knee and a cute red bow on the collar. It wasn't that revealing as you prayed but the fabric of the jumper seems the type that shows off your figure.

If you'll rate it, it'll be 8/10.

"Well, goodluck tonight, my crew!" Jongdae said with his cat smile as he walked back to the office with the costume.

"Okay guys. Let's get back to work!"

♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫

It's already 5:30 in the afternoon and you were all preparing for tonight. The café was closed earlier at 3:00pm for the transformation of the place from the cute and warm café to the scary and thrilling café. It was a nice idea from Jongdae though.

"Are you all done with the costume?" Asked by your head pastry chef, Dara.

"Yes!" All of you answered. Dara looked at all of you with a grin.

"Then it's time for the make-up transformation!"

"W-what? What make-up?" You asked nervously at her. Dara spotted you and pointed at you.

"Let's start with you, darling Lin!"

"Wait! What does--"

"I'm gonna make you a very horrifyingly gorgeous vampire maid!"

"EH?!"

After that, all you heard was Joohyuk's and Tiffany's evil laughs.

It was truly Halloween. Everyone was a monster.

♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫

"Dude, why are we coming here again?" Kai asked Sehun as they walked towards the MinBaozi Café.

"Noona texted me to come. They actually have halloween surprises for costumers. I was curious too." Sehun replied as he reached for the glass door of the café.

"This is news for me. Was it about curiosity only or because you want to see my--" Kai was cut off by a scream that made him step back.

"Shit. What was that, man?!" Kai shouted as he pushed Sehun. Sehun just laughed as he sees the café full of ghosts decorations.

"It was a surprise, dude. I'm glad one of us got surprised." Sehun says as he went to the counter to order. Kai gulped as he hurriedly followed Sehun like a lost puppy.

"What do you want to order, sir?" A hoarse voice of a dead butler (Joohyuk in his costume as a butler) asked. Sehun bit his lip as he scanned the menu at the top but then looked back at Kai.

"Order for me, hyung. I'll greet my sister." Sehun said as he hands his wallet to Kai and quickly went away.

"Yah! Oh Sehun! Dude! Aish seriously." Kai called hopelessly and faced the dead butler.

"I'll order Cappuccino and Oreo Latte with 2 slices of oreo cheesecake." Kai ordered as he fished out money from Sehun's wallet.

"Was he really that excited to greet his sister?" Kai muttered irritatedly as he took the order number and sat grumpily on the chair beside the window.

Sehun got a text from Tiffany saying, "Let's meet at the kitchen, Lin will come too!".

Knowing you're with his sister, he easily went to the kitchen with Dara's consent.

"Thank you, noona." Sehun bowed and continued his way to the kitchen. Dara just smiled mysteriously at him. (Idk if theres one)

The kitchen was dim lit but that didn't stop him seeing the silhouettes of 2 persons on the corner.

"Noona? Lin?" Sehun asked hesitantly as he walked towards them. The 2 silhouettes didn't move but their heads were slowly turning to him in a creepy way. Sehun's eyes widened as he backed away but stopped.

"Is this the surprise you're saying, noona? Okay, I'm surprised. Be thankful that I came--"

"Dongsaeng! You came!" Sehun heard Tiffany on the door and turned to her. Tiffany was wearing the maid outfit with blood all over her clothes and face but her hair was still in their curly state as usual.

"W-why are you there?" Sehun stuttered saying as he looked back at the corner, ready to point where they were supposed to be.

But there was no one on the corner.

"What? I was on the locker area after I got your text. I told you we'll be meeting here, right?" Tiffany said as she opened her phone and started texting.

"I-I thought you were already here since I saw 2 persons here earlier. But..." Sehun looked back again. "... they're gone."

"What are you saying? Come on. Lin's waiting at the counter." Tiffany said as she turned her back and walked out. Sehun quickly went after her not before looking around like a confused dog.

"Who the hell was that?" He mumbled as he closed the door.

"FUCK!"

Sehun's ears caught Kai's shout as he went towards the counter to meet you. His eyes travelled to the guy who stood up and strolled towards him.

"What was that, dude? That was so not cool." Sehun chuckled as he waved at you. He didn't know if it was you or not, but he just felt it.

"There was a freaking hand beside mine, dude!" Kai complained like a kid.

"Why didn't you hold it then?" Sehun joked.

"It has no arm, dude! Just a cut hand! It was so cold!" Kai stomped his feet like a kid, again.

"Oh. I feel bad for you." Sehun blankly said.

"I'll find a seat with no creepy hands around." Kai said and started walking but stopped when he remembered greeting you. His eyes searched for you and found a maid cleaning the counters.

Kai walked towards you and stopped in front of you.

"Yah, Kai-" Sehun interrupted but got cut off by Kai.

"Lin, we see each other again." Kai greeted you with a smirk. You grinned, your fake fangs showing, and turned to him. His eyes widened at the sight of you.

"She's so freaking breathtaking." Kai thought as his eyes travelled your wild dark eyes, red lips with a fake drops of blood on your chin, fangs and your sexy maid outfit that hugged your curves perfectly.

"Hi, Kai-ssi."

"You look great, Lin." Sehun smiled as he took in your appearance, moving closer to where Kai was to get a closer look at you. You really looked like a vampire princess rather than a maid.

"Thanks, Sehun. I hope you enjoyed our surprises for you two." You grinned and gave them candies stocked in a cute little pumpkin on the counter.

Kai took them and inspected them like they have a micro-bomb inside.

"Surprises?"

"Yeah. Did you like it, Sehun?"

"Surpri- HOLY SHEET. I thought I was really seeing ghosts!" Sehun said in relief. You laughed at his face.

"They were only my other crew members who agreed to that. Don't worry, I'll never fool you again." You said with a smile as you looked towards Sehun.

"Thank you, vamp princess." Sehun replied with fake formality as he bowed to you. You giggled as you threw a candy at him.

"Another nickname for me, huh?"

You turned to Kai, your smile turning into a frown. Kai looked so down as he put the candies on his pockets.

"Didn't you like it, Kai?" You asked, concerned at why does he look so sad and grumpy.

"No. I really don't like it." Kai said then walked out of the café. You looked at Sehun, asking why was Kai like that.

"I don't know. Maybe because I left him earlier? Or because of the hand? I'll ask him later. I'll just get our orders and run after that guy. We'll be back!" Sehun said as he went back to the cashier and get their orders before walking out of the door to find Kai.

"What was that, buddy?"

You almost jumped in fright as Joohyuk whispered at you.

"I really don't know. Kai walked out. He really looked upset though." You bit your lip in worry.

"Why are you even worrying about him? I thought you didn't like that devil?"

"Yeah but he's still a friend." You pouted.

"Ooh. A friend~ Maybe he got jealous since you and Sehun were like lovey-dovey earlier. I was watching~" Joohyuk said and walked back to the cashier.

"Jealous? As if." You muttered as you continued cleaning the counter.

♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫

"What's up, dude?"

Sehun sat beside Kai on the side walk as his best friend stayed silent.

"Nothing."

"Yeah that will convince me, son."

"Shut up."

Sehun sighed as he scratched the nape of his neck.

"Tell me you're not jealous of me."

"I am." Kai firmly said. Sehun looked at him as if his best friend was crazy.

"What? That was--"

"You know how sensitive I am when it comes to what's mine, right?"

Kai reach out his hand towards Sehun.

"My food, bro."

Sehun chuckled as he pushed Kai's order to him. Kai smirked and took a sip on his latte.

"You almost gave me a heart attack, Kai. I won't hit on your girlfriend, dude. Trust me." Sehun said with no uncertainty in his voice. Kai looked at him and nodded.

"If you do though, expect your apartment on fire." Kai threatened seriously.

"So funny, dude." Sehun rolled his eyes.

"Hey! I was trying to be serious even just for a while!" Kai whined at his younger companion like his the younger one. Sehun shrugged, but his lips curling into a smile.

"Come on, your vampire princess is waiting with my crazy vampire sister." Sehun stood up, followed by Kai.

"Yep. Her vampire prince is coming!" Kai said with a smile.

Sehun laughed at him and continued walking back towards the café.

But as he turned his back on his best friend, he can feel his smile faltering and melting like ice.

"Why do I feel like taking back my promise?"

♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫ ❧ ♫

"Thank you, everyone for the hard work! Happy Halloween!"

You all started cleaning the café as you closed the place. Sehun and Kai were waiting outside.

"So, did Kai tell you anything earlier?" Joohyuk asked as he pulled the chairs together. You shook your head and continued sweeping the floor.

"No he didn't. He just said that we'll go home together. I don't know what is his problem and I don't intend to know it."

"I bet." Joohyuk replied sarcastically. You just rolled your eyes and dusted your pants. You changed your outfit from your costume back to your normal clothes and washed your face earlier before cleaning up.

"I'll lock the place up, guys. I can see two bodyguards impatiently walking bak and forth outside." Jongdae said as he picked the keys on the counter. You looked at him and waved your hands.

"No, no, it's really okay--"

"THANK YOU, MANAGER-NIM!" Tiffany squealed in delight as she finished wiping the windows and bowed in gratitude to Jongdae, who's chuckling.

"It's nothing. I know you're all exhausted and deserves a nice sleep. See you guys tomorrow!"

You went back to the locker area and put back the cleaning materials. You got your bag with Tiffany and went out. Joohyuk was already outside talking to the other 2 guys.

"What is the real deal between you and Jongin?" Tiffany suddenly asked as you two were walking to the door.

"There's no deal, unnie."

"Yeah like I'll believe that when he totally claimed himself as your boyfriend?" Tiffany said in a 'duh' voice.

"You said it. He was a self-proclaimed boyfriend."

You pushed the glass door open and looked at the boys.

"Let's all go home now!" Tiffany said as she hugged you before going to her brother.

"Goodnight, vampire princess~" Sehun said without looking at you as he went to his car with his sister. You waved at them as the black car, you've always admired--

"H-HYUK! My dream car..."

"Yeah, it's Sehun's."

You pouted as the window went down and you saw Tiffany waving at you as they passed by the three of you left. You waved back still with a pout.

"Tss. Sulking because of a car?"

You rolled your eyes at the familiar deep and annoying voice and started walking.

"Joohyuk, will you be going home with us?" You asked your best friend as you stopped on a stop light.

"I'll be stopping over at the drugstore to buy my mom's medicine. She's been getting too many body aches this week." Joohyuk replied.

"Oh. Isn't that on the other street? I'll come--"

"It's okay, I can go by myself. And you can still catch up before your gate gets locked. It's only 10 minutes before 9." Joohyuk said, winking at you.

"Ah okay then."

As Joohyuk finally left, the two of you were left in silence. Your breathings were the only sounds you can hear. You grabbed the opportunity to ask Kai about earlier.

"Kai, why--"

Your cheeks reddened at the sudden warmth you felt around your hand. His fingers wrapped gently around yours, perfectly giving your cold hand warmth. You saw Kai on your peripheral view, smiling to himself.

"Y-yah. Why are you holding my hand?" You tried to tug away your hand but his grip was like a steel, not hurting you but like he never wanted to let go.

"I'd be happier if this is the cold hand you made me hold earlier at the café."

If your cheeks can get any redder, it already did. You feel like exploding like a bubble.

Kai suddenly stopped when you got to your dorm. You looked at him, not that surprised to find that he was already staring at you.

He was looking into your eyes like he's uncovering every chapters of your life and reading them like he wanted to know everything about you. He stared into the windows of your soul.

Slowly, his eyes went downwards until they stopped on your still reddish plump lips.

Your eyes widened, recognizing this scene in many K-dramas you've watched in your life.

"I really like your lips."

Kai leaned towards you until your noses touch. You kept your eyes opened as his stayed glued on your lips.

"Oh my ghad what do to?!" You thought as your braincells were probably running around your brain, barely functioning.

"It makes me want to claim it as mine."

You opened your mouth to speak but you can't seem to form appropriate words to scold him.

"Will you give me a trick? Or a treat?" Kai whispered seductively as his eyes went back to your own. You just felt yourself gulping.

"Do you two have any intentions of sleeping outside? I can't--"

You snapped your head towards the loud voice at the gate and saw your aunt with her mouth forming an 'o'. Your cheeks burned again as if you were slapped numerous of times today.

"Oops. Was I interrupting something?" She innocently asked as she struggled stopping her smile to appear.

You quickly moved away from Kai's hold and walked inside the house as calmly as possible or you'll surely make a fool out of yourself.

"Sorry to break your moment, Kai-ssi. I didn't know you like my niece." Your aunt giggled as she locked the gate after Kai got in. Kai chuckled as he put his shoes back on the rack.

"I was glad you appeared tho. I swear I would've gotten a big bruise on my stomach if I continued."

Your aunt laughed.

"You know my niece well, Kai."

—

❀ Ch.7 

[lins-fandom-hub]

Will you?

A random fluff thing because I’m kinda in the mood. Kinda.

Inspired by the song “Omigod you guys” from Legally Blonde.

---

“Miss Lin? I have a mission for you.”

“Coming in, sir. What is it?”

“There’s a mission for you at the...Kew Gardens, miss. Your presence is requested, but first I have a package for you.”

“Send it over here, sir.”

Mad-Eye couldn’t be serious.

There she was, standing in front of the mirror, wearing a fancy dress even Andre couldn’t have imagined designing just for her. A red strapless dress hugged her figure, raven black hair tumbling down her shoulders in loose waves. Layers of silk and satin wrapped firmly round her waist, jewels sparkling from the corset, a diamond tiara donned atop her head. Her glasses were polished to a shine as well.

Was this really a mission? There was nothing suspicious about this dress, nothing that would give her away as an Auror reporting on a mission. But still, something felt off. Why was her presence requested at a Muggle garden? She thought back to the days Penny made mention of this garden in Herbology class...

Did something happen to the Muggles there?

She quickly Disapparated from the office and found herself in the garden, all set up with rose petals and stars in the sunset. Her feet, now bare, landed in the grass that tickled beneath her. She held her wand out in front of her, just in case anyone tried to attack her.

That was when she a Puffskein fly through the air, landing in front of her feet.

“Huh?” A confused look crossed Clara’s face as she picked up the little creature, still happily dancing about as if nothing serious had happened. That was when another came out into the open. Then another. And another.

The trail of Puffskeins soon lead her to a gazebo where she heard music and singing crescendo with every step. Garlands of flowers--lilies and roses and many more she couldn’t name--decorated every column, fairy lights floating high above in the cavernous ceiling. To her left, she saw all her friends wearing beautiful golden dresses and suits, and singing with little Em playing the piano and Badeea conducting the group. Her jaw dropped in awe at the lovely little concert, the set-up made just for her.

“Clara! She’s here, guys!”

Rowan’s shout interrupted the group’s singing, which soon turned into shouts as they approached her.

“Ahh! It’s great to see you!” Clara cried as she hugged every one of her friends. “No wonder Tonks had to leave the office early! That was beautiful, thank you guys!”

“Well, you deserve it after all you’ve been through,” Tonks said with a laugh. “And it’s hard getting everyone together! But I told them it’d be for the best.”

“Though it wasn’t really...Tonks’ idea,” Penny admitted quietly with a sheepish laugh.

“Really?” Clara cocked her head. “Then who came up with this?”

“Are we all going to ignore the fact that Clara looks stunning in this beautiful red dress?” Andre inquired suddenly. “After all, you don’t get the opportunity to wear this dress from the hands of a wizarding stylist--and not for this very important day, either.”

“When can any day be of great importance?” Orion asked Andre then, who just shrugged.

“Seriously, Clara, you’ll love it,” Diego assured her, wrapping an arm around little Em who had just appeared by his side. “You’ll see why.”

“And we worked so hard on this, too!” Charlie said then. “Like Tonks said, it wasn’t easy getting everyone together, but it’s all for you. You’re our best friend, after all, and we can’t forget about you after everything we’ve been through!”

“Wait, wait.” Clara held her hands up quickly, looking at her friends. “So...Andre designed the dress, and everyone worked on whatever this is...” Then her eyes widened at the fact that one certain face was missing. “Hold on, where’s Barnaby?”

“Right here, miss.”

No way. Clara turned around then to see her Hogwarts crush, now close significant other standing before her with a clean black tux over his figure, his hair gelled to usual perfection, the million dollar smile that always made her melt dazzling over his face. She caught sight of the boutonniere now in his breast pocket--it was the same one he wore at the Celestial Ball, when they were each others’ dates.

“Barnaby!” Clara jumped. “Oh, wow, you look wonderful.”

Barnaby chuckled and shook his head. “No. You look wonderful. In fact--” he lifted her hand then and lightly brushed his lips against her knuckles-- “you look perfect.”

Ba-dump. Her heart began to pound at the slight gesture--a gesture she knew she would never get used to. “No, you look perfect tonight, Barnaby.”

“No you.”

“No, you.”

“No, you.”

“No, you--” Clara shook her head and laughed then, a bubbly sound that made his heart skip a beat. “Okay, I’m even irritating myself.”

Barnaby gently pulled her close, a small smile on his face, and lead her up the stairs to the gazebo, the fairy lights above them dazzling her eyes. “You don’t know how long I’ve wanted to do this, Clara,” he told her then, his eyes soft as they glanced into her own.

“After all we’ve been through together?” Clara asked. “I’d say everyone needs a good reunion after so long.”

“Well...yes,” Barnaby responded slowly, putting a hand on her waist and gently bringing her into a slow dance. “It was great to get everyone here together for this. Being with them reminds me of why I’m here, Clara--here, with you, in the most beautiful place at the most beautiful moment.”

“When I heard Mad-Eye tasked me with a mission here, I almost panicked,” Clara admitted sheepishly, easing into the routine as her sister began to play the piano again. “I thought Muggles were getting attacked here or something.”

“Muggles, attacked? I don’t think any wizard would think of coming here--at least, no Dark Wizard can. And Penny’s nowhere near dark,” Barnaby argued with a laugh. “No, she managed to book the space for us tonight. And I thought that you always liked to see the flowers...your father is a gifted Herbologist, after all.���

“I’m sure he’d love to come here someday,” Clara said. “His landscaping project has gotten so big and busy now.”

Barnaby nodded, tracing his thumb over her cheek, the light contact making her shiver. “I don’t know how I got so lucky,” he murmured. “Seeing you, befriending you, and then dating you...the saviour of not only Hogwarts, but of my own tainted past.” He carefully stepped back, his hand diving into something in his back pocket. “And I hope you’ll always...always, be my saviour in everything.”

“What...”

A hand suddenly flew to her mouth as she saw him kneel before her, opening a red velvet box to reveal a simple ring, in-laid with a ruby in the center of a small ring of little diamonds.

“Clara Lin, will you do me the honour of becoming my wife?”

So this was the mission, wasn’t it? To come all this way to see her friends and get proposed on the same day? She felt all eyes from her other friends stare at her, eager tension arising in the vicinity. She felt her heart melting at the sight of the boy she loved so much proposing with the same enthusiasm as he did asking her to the Ball so many years ago, the feeling of elation replacing the worry that prevailed for so long.

How could she say no?

“Barnaby...yes!” Clara cried. “Yes. Yes, I will!”

And as he slipped the ring onto her finger, and as the others cheered in celebration, Clara knew this moment was definitely too good to be true.

Guess it was a good thing Mad-Eye tasked her to come here, after all.

[bellatrixobsessed1]

The Exchange Student

She has such a charming laugh and a cheerful smile. It was no wonder she is the center of Cassidy’s classmates’ attention. Cassidy wonders if they even noticed her smile and laugh or if they are only paying her mind because she is the new foreign exchange student. 

“Say something Greek!” One student says.

“I packed yogurt and gyros for lunch.” The girl replies. Cassidy can’t hide her grin nor stifle her laugh. 

The other student frowns. “Say something in Greece!”

“I would, but I am in America now.” 

Cassidy laughs again, louder this time and with an humiliatingly dorky snort. She blushes when the new girl catches her eye. She quickly turns her head and hopes that the embarrassment will come to pass.

“He wants you to speak Greek.” A different student says. Cassidy  believes that Yan Lin is the speaker. 

After a moment, the girl replies and sends Cassidy’s heart thumping all over again. She is singing in her native tongue. Cassidy can’t tell if it is a modern pop song or a traditional folk song. The sprinkle of English within indicates a pop song, but the slow and elegant delivery of the lyrics suggests otherwise. 

She has such a lovely voice, this girl. 

Cassidy looks back down at her books, this school year has been going so well so far, she can’t bare to have a silly crush now. But lunch rolls around and the exchange student slips herself into the seat next to her with a soft, “I hope you don’t mind me sitting here.” 

How could she say no? 

“They are driving me crazy; talk in Greek! Do you...like worship Zeus? How do you say ass in Greek?” She mocks. Her accent is rather unmistakable. 

“I can imagine how annoying that is.” Cassidy thinks of all of the times she was asked if she was Irish simply for her red hair. “People here have no tact.” 

The girl laughs and pulls out her lunch. 

“You really did pack gyros.” Cassidy chuckles. 

“Well what else am I supposed to eat?” She shrugs. 

“Burgers and bacon if you want a true taste of America.” Cassidy declars.  

“Maybe tomorrow, after I figure out if goths vs preps is a real thing in this country.”  She pauses and holds her hand out. “I’m Nerissa.” 

“Cassidy.” She replies as she takes Nerissa’s hand. “Are you enjoying America so far?” 

Nerissa shrugs again. “Haven’t decided. Haven’t been anywhere but in this school and I can’t imagine that anyone would suggest this as a tourist attraction.” 

Feeling recklessly confident, Cassidy says, “I can show you my favorite coffee shop, over the weekend.” She offers. 

“I do like coffee.” 

.oOo.

She is nervous waiting for Nerissa to show up. And even more nervous that she has been stood up. Nerissa is such a pretty woman, talented and probably smart to boot. The kind of girl who made it big and successful in the halls of Sheffield Institute. Not like her. She is too quiet and too bookish to gain the attention of the infielders. It isn’t that she is a complete nerd, she isn’t harassed and hounded as some of her classmates are. But she isn’t, ‘gets the glamorous girl’ material. 

Another ten minutes pass and Cassidy is certain that Nerissa isn’t going to show.

A hand falls on her shoulder, “there you are, I’ve been waiting.” 

Cassidy turns around. Nerissa has much of her hair pulled into a messy bun, held up by a faux diamond comb. She wears a simple crop top and a pair of bedazzled skinny jeans. She wears a diamond belly ring, this, Cassidy believes is a genuine stone. 

“For a moment, I thought that you changed your mind about coming here.”

“I wouldn’t stand you up.” She stammered. 

“Good.” 

Cassidy is glad that Nerissa hadn’t caught her staring. She wonders if Nerissa finds her pretty. But then she hasn’t put much effort into her teal-blue t-shirt and pink, butterfly pin adored overalls. 

She leads Nerissa into the shop, “so what kind of coffee do you like?” 

“I’m not picky.” Nerissa answers. 

“How does espresso sound?” 

“Sounds lovely.” 

Cassidy has to agree, any coffee sounds well with Nerissa. She lets her pick the table and then finds her own eat. She just hopes that things will continue to go well with her. 

“I will pay for the drinks.” Nerissa offers. 

No, no!” Cassidy replies. “I’m treating you to American culture!” 

Nerissa smiles. “Alright. But I will pay next time.” 

Cassidy’s heart flutters again. There is going to be a next time.

[aithne]

(Illume) Not For Jade or For Diamonds

Gryphon was lying in the shadow of Shrike's sails, clawed forefeet crossed in front of him, head down. Reiko, barefoot, came up to him and crouched beside him. "Kittycat? Are you all right?"

He turned his head to gaze at her with one eye. "Are you mad at me?"

She seemed startled by the question. "No--why would I be?"

"I killed Lin. You told me not to. But I had to! She made you sad."

"Oh, sweetling." She wrapped her arms around his neck, burying her face in his feathers and breathing in the dusty smell of him. "No, Kittycat. I'm not mad. I'm sad, but I'm not angry at you. It was the only thing that could have been done, it was the right thing to do, and I'm glad you waited until I wasn't there to do it." She sat down, settling herself between his forefeet, against the place where fur changed to feathers on his chest. "You're right, Lin did make me sad. But I also couldn't kill her, because she was my granddaughter. Now that she's dead, I may have difficulty finding someone who knows how to bring Setto back to life, but...I'll manage."

"Setto, to life? Why?"

"So the Demonbane will stop killing my people, Kittycat. Unless you want to kill him because he makes me sad, too."

The gryphon made a chuckling noise in the back of his throat, which Reiko knew by now was his noise for when he was irritated by something. "Can't. Yet. But maybe soon. Stop him making you sad. Then you'll be happy."

Unaccountably, Reiko found herself on the verge of tears. "Oh, if it worked that way, Kittycat, wouldn't the world be wonderful?" She scratched his ruff. "That's my sweet brave Kittycat, who is getting bigger and more beautiful every day. Thank you."

Gryphon swished his tail in pleasure.

Panda came striding by, and pulled up short when she saw Reiko curled up with Gryphon. The black-eyed samurai looked down at the kitsune. "Are you all right, Reiko? You looked a bit shaken back there."

"I'm fine, thanks. I'm thinking of sending my father a present."

She raised one cloud-white eyebrow. "A present?"

"Lin's head. That would get my point across, right enough. He took my granddaughter and enslaved her. And when she got free, where did she go? Right to Arenro."

The samurai weighed her next words, carefully. "Reiko, I think you shouldn't believe what Lin said to you. The dead are under no compulsion to tell the truth. I think she lied to you."

"Why do you think that, Panda?" Her tone was deceptively mild.

"The Demonbane had no reason to order her to steal your memories. He wanted you to remember. He wanted you to know what you'd done. And, besides, didn't you kill a lot more people than you otherwise would have?"

The kitsune nodded slowly.

"I just think you should take what Lin said with a grain of salt. Don't be so quick to blame the Demonbane for everything that's gone wrong in your life. She was involved with Arenro before she died, don't forget. And so she lied to you as her last act. One last kick at you, before she went on to her next life."

Reiko shifted, Gryphon putting one hand around her protectively, without thought. "Maybe, Panda. And maybe she was telling the truth." She drew in a breath and let it out again. "I'll ask the Demonbane the next time I see him. As far as I know, he's never lied to me. He's omitted important parts of the truth, but he's never outright lied as far as I know. Speaking of..." She nuzzled Gryphon's fur briefly. "Kittycat, let me up."

Panda asked, "Where are you going?"

She shrugged. "It occurs to me that there are possibly a pair of people on this ship I owe an apology to."

"Who might that be?"

"Jeron, for one." The kitsune grimaced as if she were tasting something bitter. "And Funitsu. But Jeron first. I haven't decided yet what I'm going to say to the Scorpion."

Reiko found Jeron speaking with a pair of the other Thrykreen, at the stern of Shrike. She settled herself out of earshot, and waited until he was done and the others had walked off.

She rose, and approached him. He was seated and looked up at her, surprised. "Reiko."

She nodded. "Jeron. I have...come to apologize."

"For what, my lady?"

She wore a rueful smile. "For my anger. It was perhaps undeserved. But before I know whether or not it was, I have to ask you a question. You knew about the Scorpion connection to the kitsune. Why did you just hint at it, instead of telling me?"

"Truly, would you actually believe a Thrykreen sent by Demonbane? How do you know I am telling the truth or Demonbane's truth?"

"I'm not sure, really. But I'd prefer that I make the decision whether or not to believe you." She shrugged. "Besides, as far as I can tell, you're not truly much under the Demonbane's control. Or if you are, it's far subtler than the usual."

"Demonbane holds no real control over me, just my people."

"I didn't think so, from what you said before. I have to say that I wasn't sure about him sending you away from him. It seems like a gamble. You probably know many of his secrets." Reiko seated herself next to him, not touching him, though even from her she could feel the energy running under his skin, and longed to drink.

"I know probably far too many of his secrets, but it was time for me to go."

Casually, she said as if she had not been thinking about this for the last few days, "You're not quite what you seem, Jeron. Different from your people, definitely. You seem--older."

"I am a bit older than my brothers and sisters, yes."

Obviously, that line of conversation wasn't going to get her anywhere. He's waiting for me to ask the right questions. I can feel it. She switched subjects again. "He probably could have sent you anywhere. Why to us, I wonder? It probably doesn't matter. Just out of curiosity, how did you know about the Scorpion/kitsune connection? It doesn't seem like the sort of thing that even the Demonbane would talk about much."

Slowly, Jeron replied, "I was there, Reiko."

She blinked, shocked. "A bit older than your brothers, Jeron? That was, ah, two thousand years or so ago. That would make you older than me."

"You are some four hundred years old, correct?"

"A bit older. Seven hundred or so. I'm not sure, exactly."

"Ah, seven centuries. You don't look a day over two." There was a teasing note in his voice.

She rolled her eyes at him. "I get that a lot." Her voice was warm, and she was pleased. He did indeed have a sense of humor under there somewhere.

"Then I am about twenty times your age, to be accurate."

She looked up at him in astonishment, biting her lip, doing the math. "Fourteen thousand years? You were alive for the Warresh wars, weren't you?"

He nodded. "I was."

"And you're an immortal. Like me. Were all of your people immortal, then?"

"Once, long ago. I think I am the last."

She tilted her head at him, inquiringly. "Was it the Demonbane who changed you? I can see him making that a condition of rescuing your people."

"We were hunted to near oblivion, holding on to the last vestiges of what we'd been in remote corners of Japan. I made a deal with the devil to save my race, but it's led both of us here, to the situation we face."

Reiko shuddered. "Dear kami. That's terrible. Even worse than my own people having anything good in us removed by Funitsu's people."

"His clan may have wounded you, Reiko. He did not."

She laughed, a bit self-depreciatingly. "Oh, I know. I'm occasionally a bit unreasonable, Jeron. A few days usually sees me able to think things through, and put my anger in its place. Just like my anger at you, it fades relatively quickly." She thought about the Scorpion, muttering, "It doesn't help that I find him highly irritating much of the time. Ah, well. I'll apologize later."

"I had wondered what you were angry about, kitsune."

She shrugged again. "I was angry. You and Funitsu happened to be connected to what made me angry. I'm not very good at grudges, most of the time, though. My father being the exception to that."

"Your father has a great deal to answer for, Reiko, and I'm sure he will. And the Scorpion may be able to help you, if you let him."

"We'll all pay for our sins, some day." Her fingers toyed idly with the topaz that was hanging around her neck. "And if he feels like helping, yes, he might at that. I might just ask. After all, the worse he can do is say no, and if he does I'm no worse off than I am now."

"You might just need to ask." She felt rather than saw him shrug, and then he sat back, making himself more comfortable. "You'll be no worse off even if he says no, and you might find that he can help in ways you don't understand yet."

"If nothing else, he might feel the need to redress some of the wrongs his ancestors have done. At least, I'm pretty sure he thinks it's a wrong. The boy's really far too nice to be a good Scorpion much of the time."

"He might lead them to a new age of peace instead. One never knows. Time has taught me that at least. "

She looked at him, tilting her head, admiring his sun-colored hair and the way it fell against his cheek. "If he manages to survive the next three months, that is. Though, really, I'm the one who seems to have the shortest life expectancy around here. Sort of ironic, considering that I'm an immortal."

Jeron glanced over at her, seeing her amber eyes full of fretting. "You can be very fragile sometimes for an immortal."

"Tell me about it. of course, it doesn't help that kitsune aren't meant to go into battle. And until the last few months, I think I successfully managed to avoid getting into any physical battles. At least, I don't remember any. Silly things we do for love, anyway." She sighed gustily.

He nodded, and added, "Of course, you have to relearn all the things you knew before after each memory reset. That can make one more fragile."

"True. I'm at once seven centuries old--and only twenty-two. Speaking of. Would the Demonbane have had any reason for ordering Lin to do a reset of my memory every thirty years or so? Panda mentioned that that didn't make any sense, and she's right. I'm suspecting that Lin may have lied."

The Thrykreen shook his head. "No. The Demonbane hated that fact more than any other. He wanted you to suffer with your memories, not have them wiped clean every few years."

"That was probably all Lin, then. Maybe with some suggestions from Arenro. Which means that I can't believe anything else she told me, including who was behind the attempt she made to capture me that ended up getting her killed." Reiko grimaced, twisting her pendant until the cord that held it was tight against her throat."

"No, that was Demonbane. He did want you captured. Lin hated that she died for him and found her own torture of him by wiping your memories. Thereby denying him his torture."

She let go of her pendant. "And so, even after death, she wanted me to blame him for what she did. Devious girl. I'll have to tell Panda that, yet again, she was right."

"There is something to be said to the cold logic of that one." Reiko couldn't tell if he was making fun of her again, but on the balance she rather suspected he was. She found herself not minding, and replied in kind.

"I'm starting to get a better appreciation of it as we go along. Not enough to want to imitate her, even if I were able to. I'll take my kitsune nature, both the good and the bad." The urge to touch him was getting stronger, but she resisted, because she knew that once she gave in, she'd probably forget anything else she wanted to ask him. "I actually have one more curiosity, Jeron. I noticed that you never change your form. Would it be too personal for me to ask why?

He shook his head. "I am in my real form. The Thrykreen form for me is a more like a werewolf transformation, rather than an illusion. That is no longer true for the rest of us. Demonbane took what was left of our humanity."

Remembering something he'd said a few days ago, she asked, "You know, you said before that with every generation, you're getting closer to what you once were. Will you recover that humanity, do you think?"

"That is my hope, that a generation will be born where humanity isn't an illusion."

"And you might recover your immortality."

"Maybe. But I find that immortality isn't much of a gift without someone to share it with." He was looking directly at her as he said this, a raw honesty in his sea-blue eyes.

"I know." She closed her eyes briefly, feeling abruptly a little lonely as she remembered Setto, and how she had always known that her time with him was going to be a candlespan when compared with the rest of her life. Remembered a constant stream of lovers, each with her for so little time. How many more don't I remember? Hundreds, probably. "You're the only person I've found in seven hundred years that I can't accidentally kill." Her mouth was set in a wry twist, and she looked down at her hands. "That energy you have running along your skin. Did you have that before the Demonbane altered you?"

"Yes, and that is not all it does."

This was new and interesting information, and Reiko pounced on it as if it were a mouse. "Really? What else does it do?"

"It's got a range, and within that it's deadly to anyone--except a kitsune. But I'm the only one of my kind that can do it."

"That's...interesting. And you build up a charge of it, and have to release it every so often?"

"Periodically, unless it's drained."

She followed that thought down, completing it. "Drained by a kitsune. So. Are the Thrykreen and the kitsune two halves of the same whole, then? I've noticed a...I can't describe it. It feels almost like an addiction, to that energy of yours."

He was watching her carefully, as if unsure of her reaction. "You may be the female of the species, Reiko."

She blinked, opened her mouth, thought better of what she was about to say, and closed it again. She sat perfectly still as she considered this idea. Kitsune and Thrykreen? It makes...sense. Out loud, she said, "That's an interesting idea. All of your people are currently male, aren't they?"

Jeron nodded. "They are all male. Look at our forms, Reiko. We are both beautiful by human standards, as all our people are. Your other form is fox, ours is mantid. But even Tadaki has a bird form...we may be related somewhere deep in the past, even if not directly."

She fretted at the sleeve of her kimono with one hand. "It could be. And there's the fact that when a kitsune has children, the girls are all kitsune, and the boys are human. But...that could be because we mate with humans, couldn't it?"

"And how fertile are you with humans?"

"Not very. I've had one child in seven hundred years. And I probably don't have to tell you how many chances I've had to become pregnant." She made a wry face.

The Thrykreen was looking thoughtful. "What if it takes a human with mantid blood to be truly compatible? Is that the reason it takes kitsune so many tries to become pregnant?"

"It's an...interesting idea." Without thinking about it, she moved over from where she sat to tuck herself against Jeron, closing her eyes. After a moment, she felt him put his arm around her, and pull her close.

The energy flowed under his skin, and Reiko basked in it, not drinking but just feeling it move. It was a sensual pleasure, and she admitted to herself that it was one she'd been wanting, even as she'd been angry with the mantid. I like him. A lot. I wish I could find out if he's telling the truth. I think he is, but...how many men have lied to me?

And there was something else, as well. I can't kill him accidentally. But that also means I can't kill him on purpose. That's my one natural defense, and without it I'm completely vulnerable. The thought was not as frightening as it might have been, but it was still food for thought.

The question was, could she trust him? Being near him feels like coming home. But I don't know if I can trust my instincts about him. Perhaps it's wishful thinking. But on the other hand...wouldn't it be lovely to love someone who's also immortal, who isn't going to age and die in less than a hundred years?

If I'm reading him right, that's what he might be offering me. And to have children, if what he says is true... The thought was a bittersweet one. She'd raised Yasuo on her own, after Setto died (after I killed him, the treacherous voice in her mind whispered), and though it had been difficult, she'd enjoyed watching her mortal son grow into a man before her eyes.

And it seems that he would need me as much as I need him. Separate, we are both dangerous to the people around us. Together, the chance of either of us accidentally killing people is much, much less.

She wished there was a way to confirm some of the things he'd said to her, about Lin, and about how old he was. Perhaps a visit with the First Foxes might be wise.

How do I do that, though? She searched her memory, coming up blank. I have no idea how one talks to them. Taura wouldn't know. Who would? Perhaps a spell she'd been granted recently, a conduit to the gods, might help.

For the moment, she put her thoughts aside, leaning into Jeron. She felt him press a kiss on the top of her head, and after that they both sat still for a long time, wordless.