#Cheers Tala

[neonhellscape]

I fancied doing a drawing with everyone in one image that i have No intention of colouring so. have some sleepy citizens

[theshadowsingersraven]

Happy Day Six of Azriel Appreciation Week!

To accompany today's moodboard, I also wrote a little oneshot of Azriel teaching his daughter how to fly. You can read that below here, or on AO3:

Chapters: 1/1

Fandom: A Court of Thorns and Roses Series - Sarah J. Maas

Rating: General Audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Relationships: Azriel (A Court of Thorns and Roses)/Original Female Character(s)

Characters: Azriel (A Court of Thorns and Roses), Original Female Character(s), Original Azriel Child(ren) (A Court of Thorns and Roses), Original Azriel/Original Female Character Child(ren)

Additional Tags: Fluff, Domestic Fluff, Family Fluff, Father-Daughter Relationship, POV Azriel (A Court of Thorns and Roses), Dad!azriel

Series: Part 2 of Azriel Appreciation Week 2024

Summary:

Azriel teaches his daughter to fly.

Submission for Azriel Appreciation Week Day Six: Song of the Wind

@azrielappreciationweek

Azriel’s face was uncharacteristically soft as he stared up at his daughter. It was customary for Illyrians to learn flying at a young age, and Tala’s third birthday was the start of her more formal training. She was putting on a brave face, just like her mother behind her, but he could tell she was nervous. 

Snowflakes settled in Tala’s wavy hair and on the tips of her long, pointed ears, which twitched at the cold. Her mess of blonde locks were piled atop her head, secured with a leather tie and wide cloth headband. She stared down at Azriel over the slope before her. The drop wasn’t bad for her age—just two feet above Azriel’s head with a ten-foot glide.

His breath puffed into a cloud in front of his face as he held out his arms for her. Solara crouched behind her, and he faintly heard her murmur, “You can do it, sweet girl. Just like you and daddy practiced.”  

Tala nodded, burying her cold-touched nose and cheeks into her scarf. She took a step towards the edge of the small cliff. Then another. Her small boots shuffled in the snow, leaving lumpy piles in her wake. 

Azriel nodded towards her. “Tell yourself one more time, honey. Lean, stretch, and aim right towards me.” 

Tala swallowed dryly, but murmured the words to herself, too soft for Azriel to hear. Solara stood to her full height, giving their girl further words of encouragement. 

A full grin finally broke out on Azriel’s face as he watched Tala’s lips purse in concentration—a true twin to her mother. Her nose scrunched, and Azriel couldn't stop himself from cheering.

“Come on, little star! Fly right to Papa, okay? You've got this!” 

Combined with Solara’s clapping, the excitement became infectious. Tala bounced on her feet once. Twice. And then leaped. 

Her eyes screwed shut. Azriel’s feet shifted instinctively, fear tightening his chest. Would she freeze? But then her wings snapped open.

Tala lifted her face, arms going overhead as she shifted her weight forward. Stray strands of golden hair whipped around her forehead. Her wings steadied her, carrying her straight toward Azriel in an unsteady but determined glide. 

Then, all thirty pounds of Tala collided with Azriel's chest. He instantly wrapped his arms around her, turning on his heels to ease her momentum as she came to a stop. 

Azriel looked down at Tala, her eyes wide with disbelief. Her little jaw worked to say something, but she was too stunned to make any words form.

Then, Solara's cheering broke through the shock of the moment. “Yeah! That's my baby!” She was practically jumping up and down, squealing from joy. 

Azriel's eyes stung, his heart swelling as Tala’s face lit up like the sky during Starfall. “You did it,” he breathed. His voice wavered as he laughed, a lightness filling his chest. This is what he'd craved as a boy. A strong, steady voice. Hands outstretched, ready to catch him if he fell. For centuries, he'd thought he'd never know what that felt like—until now.

“I did it! Daddy, I did it!” Tala exclaimed. 

He squeezed her and pressed a smacking kiss to her hair-strewn forehead. Azriel pulled back to look at his daughter once more. Tala’s mittened hands lifted to his face. Her head tilted as she asked, “Why are you crying, Daddy?”

Azriel hadn't even realized he'd been crying until his daughter brushed the tears from his cheeks. But he knew why.

 He could feel that tiny, once-scared part of him finally settling. The jagged edges of those old wounds finally smoothed out, the craving to be held and taught gently—Finally satisfied. 

Azriel looked down at his daughter, and simply said, “I'm just so proud of you, little star.” 

Tala beamed and threw her arms around her father's neck. He squeezed her tightly, unable to stop the rest of the tears that dripped down his cheeks. Her soft, blossoming scent of basil and peony surrounded him as he buried his face in her tiny shoulder. 

Tala had flown. His little girl had flown. It felt like little Azriel from five centuries ago, standing on the edge of a cliff trying to learn to fly had just done the same, too. And when Solara had finally scrambled down the small jutting cliff and embraced them both, little Azriel felt like he'd finally made it home. 

[loveryss]

Tala Ferrer & Lilianna Malone 🎮🌱

@whimsyaspenccfinds requested a tomboy filipino gamer girl with he/they pronouns and their gardener girlfriend with dark skin and she/they pronouns

Only everyday outfits

They use my default skin & eyes (there is also a nondefault version of the skin)

CC is included (apart from defaults)

Tala's traits: bro, loner, geek

Tala's aspiration: computer whiz

Lilianna's traits: loves outdoors, cheerful, green fiend

Lilianna's aspiration: freelance botanist

Download: sfs

[T.O.U.]

[whatifitookalilnap]

Die With A Smile

Chapter 1: I Could Be A Good Avatar, If I Could Get Out Of This Place

(Pairing: Korra x Asami)

(EQUALIST ASAMI AU IS FINALLY HERE!!!! I combined this with a slightly revamped version of my corrupt White Lotus concept. Also just me in general doing a whole ass LOK rewrite because why not? Asami and Korra’s antics WILL be ridiculous up in here. Prepare yourselves for a LONG fic. Feedback and comments are always welcome! The ao3 link is posted right before this!)

“Oh yeah! Hit him where it hurts, Korra!” Delak yelled as Korra managed to bend fire right at her opponent’s chest with her fist.

“FLAY THAT SUCKER! ARE YOU OLD CRONES SEEING THIS?!?! THAT’S MY GIRL KICKING ASS OUT THERE!” Kyuka hollered.

Korra bit back a laugh as Rakin scolded them for her best friends’ vulgar cheering tactics. She was very quickly snapped back to reality when her opponent threw fire at her face. Thankfully, Korra managed to dodge in the flames in the nick of time. Better actually pay attention to the fight now.

In her defense, the fight is basically over. Her opponent was breathing heavily, there was a slight shaking in his legs, and his movements were much more erratic and much less precise. After one well timed kick, Korra had won the battle.

"Haha! Yes! Finally!" Korra excitedly cheered.

Then she took a quick glance at the unamused faces of the White Lotus members and quickly straightened out.

"I mean, thank you all for believing in me," Korra said respectfully while bowing.

Kyuka dragged Delak by the arm and rushed down from the bleachers to meet Korra. Almost immediately crushed in a bear hug by her two best friends.

Also, her only friends, but the point still stands.

"Don't get ahead of yourself Korra. We haven't decided if you've actually completed your firebending training yet," Rakin warned her.

Korra took in a deep breath in an attempt to not totally flip her lid. These old crones have been putting off her completion of firebending for weeks. Every time they claim something will be the final test, they say something along the lines of 'oh, just kidding, you will be training even longer'! It's driving her insane! Just let her airbend already, damn it!

"You can't be serious, you've been saying that for ages! I mean how much is enough-" Kyuka glared before Delak nudged her harshly.

While Korra did appreciate Kyuka riding for her so passionately, it really wouldn't do much to help her case.

"Look, the reality of it is that Korra may be excelling in the physical aspects of being the Avatar, but she's completely ignored the spiritual side," Rakin glared.

"Well, yes, airbending is when I learn about spirituality. When I start my airbending training, I will actually have the opportunity to get into the whole spirit situation," Korra deadpanned.

There's no way she had to actually spell it out for these old guys. Sometimes it seems like they purposefully drag out her training. Ugh, but that doesn't even make any sense. They'd have no purpose for doing that.

She just needs to remind herself that this is what Avatar Aang wanted. Who knows more about being the Avatar than the one right before her?

"Korra's ready. If anyone can teach her about the spirits, it's Tenzin," Katara smiled.

The four White Lotus members did not seem to appreciate that statement. If Korra wasn't a super composed and mature adult, she would be jumping with joy right now.

Okay, fine, she's bouncing on the balls of her feet just a little.

"Maybe we should discuss this further," Rakin started before thankfully getting cut off by Katara.

"There's no need. Kyuka does have a point, you've been holding out on the poor girl for weeks. Korra's completed every task you've thrown at her with grace and precision. She's earned her title of firebending master," Katara nodded.

Korra smiled excitedly at her mentor's words. No one can argue with Katara.

"Well, I suppose that's that. We will collaborate with Master Tenzin in order to begin her airbending training," Tala relented.

Did any of the White Lotus members look particularly happy about Katara's verdict? No. Did Korra have the decency to care now that she's finally a firebending master? Also no.

"Yes! Finally! Oh, we have got to celebrate! Dinner's on me tonight!" Kyuka exclaimed while linking arms with Korra and Delak.

"You know the rules," Rakin told the trio with narrowed eyes.

"Yes, Korra will be back before sundown. I can assure you no harm will fall upon the Avatar while she's with us," Delak sighed.

"Kids these days," Rakin sighed as his way of letting them go.

Before Kyuka could yank Korra away, the Avatar rushed up to lightly hug Katara. The older woman laughed before hugging back.

"No need to thank me. Go have fun with your friends," Katara grinned once Korra pulled away.

Korra beamed at her waterbending master before hurrying over to where Kyuka and Delak stood. They'd need to get out of here as fast as possible if she wants to make the most of this day. After all, the Avatar has a curfew.

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

Korra is so past curfew right now. She blames her stupid friends.

Thankfully, by the time the Avatar returned to the compound, the White Lotus weren't waiting for her like the stalkers they are. Instead, the man in charge of opening and closing the gate merely gave her a scolding look before letting her back inside.

Once the Avatar awkwardly started shuffling back into the compound, she heard several voices speak in the conference room and none of them sounded pleased. When she glanced into the window, she saw the White Lotus speaking to Tenzin and some woman Korra's never met before.

Now Korra's mind is racing a mile a minute. How in spirit's name did Tenzin get here so quickly? And why was he by himself? He usually brought his wife and kids when he visits the Southern Water Tribe. Did he know that Korra's training would soon come to an end? Is it a mere coincidence? Just what is going on here?

Well, Korra should probably just quietly get to her room, she was sure she would have been called if she was needed.

"-and that is why we seriously need the Avatar's help," the unknown woman stated.

Korra's jaw dropped at the admission. She thought about what to do next for a moment before simply deciding the best course of action was to eavesdrop. Hey, she's not a perfect person.

"I appreciate the, complexities, of your situation, but I must decline your request of bringing out the Avatar," Rakin firmly stated.

Both Tenzin and the unknown woman seemed shocked by the response. The unknown woman grit her teeth and curled her hand into a fist. In her defense, the way she looks is exactly how Korra feels whenever she has to talk to Rakin.

"I am the chief of police in Republic City. I was raised by Toph Beifong. If you could not tell by those two facts alone, I am not a woman who is willing to ask for help. But my city needs their Avatar," the Beifong woman insisted.

"Please, Rakin, the situation is only getting worse by the day. Besides, Korra needs to go to Republic City to learn airbending anyways," Tenzin added.

"Korra should not be dealing with such a major crisis until she is a fully realized Avatar. You need to find another way to solve this issue," Rakin trold them.

"My father was twelve years old when he ended the Hundred Year War, surely Korra-," Tenzin began.

The airbending master was very quickly cut off by Rakin slamming his fist down on the table. It surprised Korra greatly. In all her years of knowing him, he never once broke his cool exterior.

"No, the Avatar must stay here. Her airbending training will be postponed until this little incident is taken care of," Rakin spat.

"Lin, we did what we could, but their decision is final," Tenzin told the scowling woman.

Despite Tenzin admitting defeat, even he didn't seem to love Rakin's decision. He looked irritated, but he's significantly more composed than the chief.

"I don't really see the point in having an Avatar if she can't actually leave her home!" the woman Korra could now identify as Lin huffed.

"Korra's just barely turned eighteen, give her some time. I can assure you-" Rakin began, but Lin was already leaving.

Korra yelped and immediately started running, knowing she'd certainly get caught if someone walked through those doors. Korra did not slow down until she was safely tucked away in her room.

The Avatar's brain was going a mile a minute. There are dozens of questions going through her mind, but only two seemed to really matter. What is going on in Republic City? And why exactly is Rakin so against Korra doing her literal job by helping them?

Something told Korra she wouldn't get any answers from Rakin. Tenzin and Lin didn't seem to be in the mood to talk either. There's only one person Korra can think of that would be able to help her in these trying Avatar times.

After very quickly escaping the White Lotus compound, Korra used her waterbending to get to Katara's door home at lightning speed. The Avatar didn't even need to knock before her waterbending master opened the door.

"I was wondering when you would make your great escape," Katara grinned.

"Katara, I need some serious old lady wisdom right now," Korra admitted.

"I'll make tea. Talk to me," Katara told her.

Once Korra explained to Katara the whole situation, the older woman looked troubled. That is not a good sign. When she mentioned the Lin Beifong woman, Katara's jaw dropped.

"I'm sorry, did you just say that Lin Beifong came to the Southern Water Tribe to ask for the Avatar's assistance?" Katara asked.

"Yes, that's correct," Korra confirmed.

"Oh, you need to leave immediately," Katara confirmed.

"Is it really that bad?" Korra grimaced.

"If Lin 'I'll stitch my own stab wound with no healer' Beifong is asking for help, then she really needs help," Katara nodded.

Korra's entire body slumped in pure relief at Katara's approval. This woman is her idol. Korra wants to make her proud so badly the pressure of it all almost consumes her.

"I'm glad I at least have you on my side. I want to be the kind of Avatar people want to come to for help. I want to make sure the era of peace Aang brought to this world stays intact," Korra insisted.

Katara gave Korra a soft smile. She took Korra's hands into her own and squeezed them tight.

"Aang's era is over. My brother and many of my friends are gone. It's time for you and your generation to take on maintaining balance in this crazy world. There is no doubt in my mind that you will be an excellent Avatar, Korra," Katara smiled.

The younger woman quickly drew her into a hug, partly to hide her tears. She's really doing this. Korra is really going to go to Republic City.

...wait a damn minute.

"Katara, super quick question for you. How does one, ehem, get to Republic City at such an hour?"

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

Once Korra called Delak and Kyuka from Katara's house to explain the situation, she decided she had to stop at her parents place in person before she left. Though they were reluctant to let her go, their worries eased significantly when they learned Katara signed off on it.

"Really? You're going to let me go? Just like that?" Korra asked hopefully.

"We always knew you'd have to go to Republic City eventually. We also knew that it would be a good chance we couldn't come with you," Senna told her.

"Not only are you the Avatar, but you're also an adult. I'm glad that you're taking charge of your own life," her father kindly stated.

At once, Korra swelled up with emotion. For the first time in her life, she was going to go off and learn to bend a new element without her parents by her side.

The Avatar quickly squeezed her parents into a tight hug. She felt two pairs of arms wrap around her. She stood there to simply bask in the presence of her parents for a moment. Oh, she is going to miss them terribly.

"Uh, before I forget, could I, oh gee I don't know, have some money?" Korra asked hopefully.

Tonraq sighed a very tired, fatherly sigh. He then looked rather dramatically off into the distance.

"The day I've been dreading for the past eighteen years has finally come. My daughter is going to run my wallet dry. How I mourn you, gold coins," Tonraq said, feigning sadness.

"Oh for spirits sake, you'll be fine old man. Give me a moment Korra, I'll get you some money," Senna told her. Korra's mother then quickly left the room to find the satchel with the coins.

"I don't know why you're looking so sad, Pops, no one has ever once said that having a daughter is cheap," Korra smirked.

"Let a man grieve in peace, Korra," Tonraq immediately countered.

Korra's eyes rolled so far back into her head that she's pretty sure she could see her own brain. Senna then walked back into the room with a full coin purse. The Avatar made her final goodbyes with her parents and then she was ushering Naga to start running at the speed of light.

From what Katara said, Beifong tends to travel by boat and there should only be one docked right now. Korra is hoping and praying that the chief is still there. It'd really suck if her sudden rebellion was all for nothing.

The spirits must be on her side because Korra saw the chief's silhouette walking up to the boat.

"Hey! Chief Beifong! Wait up!" Korra yelled.

The chief paused and turned around with a raised eyebrow. Yikes, this woman is incredibly intimidating.

"So sorry to bother you, it's just that I'm the Avatar and word on the street is that you need my help," Korra said.

The chief looked Korra up and down, then crossed her arms. She did not seem amused.

"Given the fact that I literally just spoke to the White Lotus and they told me they wouldn't be sending the Avatar out, I find your claim a little hard to believe," the woman scowled.

Ah, that explains the odd look she gave Korra. Well, this is an easily solvable situation.

Korra waterbent a sphere right above her left hand. Then, she tilted her head back and breathed fire from her mouth.

Lin Beifong's eyes widened a bit and her lips ever so slightly parted in shock. Korra assumes this is the most extreme emotion she'll get from this woman.

"I can assure you I'm no fake," Korra smiled.

"How on Earth did you manage to get out here then? The White Lotus seemed very set on not letting you off your leash," Beifong asked once she recovered from the unexpected surprise.

"Yeah, I actually talked to them! They, uh, had a change of heart," Korra ever so slightly lied.

Lin narrowed her eyes at Korra's words. If she found Korra's words to be suspicious, she ultimately didn't comment.

"In that case, let's get a move on. If we don't get on that boat right now, we don't leave the Southern Water Tribe," Lin said.

Korra nodded and quickly followed behind Lin to board the boat. They were quickly ushered onto the ship and shown to the room they'd be staying.

"So, what is the situation with Republic City that needs an Avatar's help?" Korra decided to ask once they got settled.

"I'll give you a more detailed run down when we get to the station. It's easier to absorb certain information with all the documents right in front of you. The condensed version of the issue is that there's an up and coming movement for nonbenders. They call themselves Equalists. They're a bunch of nonbenders that are pissed off over being treated unfairly in comparison to benders," Lin explained.

"I mean, that doesn't sound so bad. If there's really an issue of nonbenders getting the short end of the stick, shouldn't it get addressed?" Korra questioned.

"The issue isn't so much the Equalist cause itself, more of who's the face of it. His name's Amon and he's an extremist psychopath. Unfortunately, the desperation of nonbenders is so bad that they don't particularly care about how Amon goes about spreading equality, they just want results," Lin told her.

"So he's making benders out to be the enemy?" Korra guessed.

"Correct. He's twisting a movement that could be used to inspire actual change and is instead making it a hate campaign against benders. It's been getting rapidly worse these past few months," Lin confirmed.

Korra cringed at the concept of benders and nonbenders turning on each other. Kind of makes her wonder who would even win. Sure, benders had some pretty crazy power since they manipulate an element, but there's much more nonbenders out in the world. Plus, with all the new machines in this day and age, Korra imagines it'd be a pretty fair fight.

Seriously, why is she even thinking about this? The whole point of her presence is to stop the Equalist issue from getting to that point.

"Well, this is certainly one way to start off my thrilling Avatar career," Korra sighed.

Okay, nonbenders are naturally upset that they are treated lesser than in comparison to benders. Nonbenders follow Amon despite his radical views because he actually causes change. Korra needs to step in and find a middle ground so that everyone goes home happy.

Now how the fuck is she gonna do that?

"Out of morbid curiosity, how did you manage to convince the White Lotus to let you run off to Republic City? I've spent months trying to convince them to get you there," Beifong inquired, effectively snapping the Avatar out of her thoughts.

Korra kind of forgot about the fact that she's basically a runaway right now. Oopsie daisy.

"So, uh, you're going to laugh when I tell you this," Korra nervously started.

"Oh, what the flameo did you do?" Beifong glared.

Spirits, this woman is terrifying when she glares.

"So the White Lotus don't actually, how do you say, know that I left," Korra weakly told her.

Lin stared at Korra for five seconds straight. Then, she took in a deep breath.

"Are you telling me that I just, for all intents and purposes, kidnapped the fucking Avatar?" Lin eerily asked her.

"No I am not! I turned eighteen last week, so I'm an adult leaving a place on my own volition! Plus, it's not like they're going to think I just vanished! I told my parents and Katara I was leaving! They'll be the ones to let the White Lotus know what's going on tomorrow," Korra frantically told her.

Chief Beifong took in a deep breath while she rubbed her eyes. She seemed to be thinking for a moment before she let out a long, drawn out sigh.

“You know what? I don’t think I care about those old hags anymore. Your parents will deal with the aftermath. No one would bother going against Katara's judgment. The White Lotus completely fell apart when Iroh died anyways,” Lin huffed.

Korra pursed her lips at the comment but ignored it. The White Lotus has been getting a lot of jabs lately. Sure, they're stuck up jerks and sometimes their methods make absolutely zero sense, but that doesn't make them terrible people or anything.

"Wait, do you happen to know where I'll be staying when we actually get there? I kind of forgot about sleeping arrangements. I was in a bit of a rush to meet you," Korra said in an attempt to change the subject.

Also, she really does need a place to stay.

"You'll be bunking with Tenzin and his family. You need to stay there to learn airbending anyways, it was always the plan from what I've heard," Lin stated.

"I figured as much. Never hurts to check," Korra said.

Once those words left her mouth, Naga decided this was the perfect time for the all powerful Avatar to become a chair. Naga proceeded to lay her entire body on Korra. Helpless to stop this obvious attack, all Korra could do was accept her fate as she was smothered in fur.

"You alive down there Avatar? I can't have you suffocating until after you've fixed my city's problems," Lin said.

For the first time since Korra's seen her, the chief of police actually sounds amused. So suffering is what makes Lin Beifong have a light laugh.

Honestly? It checks out.

"Yeah, I'm good. It would appear Naga thinks she's still a puppy," Korra managed to get out.

"Get comfortable inhaling all that polar bear dog fur, it'll be a while before we get to Republic City," Lin said in such a way that it was obvious she's smirking right now.

Naga must be encouraged by Lin's words because she put even more of her weight on Korra. That's just perfect. It looks like Korra's first time in Republic City she'd be sporting a couple of cracked ribs.

No one ever said being the Avatar would be easy.

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

Korra may have once been Avatar Aang about eighteen years ago, but she does not have her previous life's patience. She was practically jumping off the walls by the time they docked at Republic City at midday.

"It's about damn time. If you asked my one more question about Republic City, I was going to throw you overboard," Beifong scowled.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't realize it was a crime to be curious about my home for the foreseeable future," Korra pouted.

"I should make it one. Tenzin's going to be in a council meeting that'll last pretty much all day. I'll call him when he gets out. I've got to make up for the time I missed at work so I'll be unreachable for at least the next couple days. Feel free to roam the city. Be back here at sundown, Tenzin should be here by then. Don't do stupid shit. I swear if you get into trouble," Beifong warned.

"What? Trouble? Me? I'm the pinnacle of good behavior," Korra indignantly stated.

"Somehow I don't buy it. We'll discuss the Equalist issue at a later time, I need to get back to the station. Again, do not do anything stupid," Lin sternly told her while walking away.

"Pinnacle of good behavior! That's what I am!" Korra yelled after.

Either Beifong didn't hear the Avatar or she simply did not care. It doesn't really matter because now, Korra is standing alone in front of a major city she's never been to.

Well, Korra has approximately four hours until she has to be back at the port. While she contemplated what to do, her stomach decided to give her an answer by loudly growling. She's pretty confident in the fact Naga is probably hungry now too. Okay, food it is.

As began her journey through this gigantic city, Korra's eyes were like crazy to see as much as possible. All the buildings she could see were miles tall. Cars were streaming right past her, people were bustling around trying to get to their destination, and there was some type of loud sound coming from every which way.

To put it bluntly, Republic City is a tad overwhelming.

As Korra continued her very scenic view of the city, a loud feminine voice caught her attention. She glanced over her shoulder to look at the source of the volume only to see a swarm of people crowding a girl on a stage. The megaphone the girl held accounted for the shockingly loud voice. It would appear the Avatar accidentally walked right into one of those Equalist rallies the chief talked about. Korra considered her options for a moment before deciding to get in closer. She may as well scope the scenery out.

Besides, as an Avatar, it would be in her best interest to understand both sides of the issue. She has a pretty solid idea what the benders think of the whole Equalist movement, so maybe this speaker will give Korra some perspective on the nonbender side. Despite the hunger ever brewing in Korra's stomach, she walked to the rally.

The closer Korra got to the Equalist rally, the prettier the speaker on stage began to look. Once the Korra made it to the edge of the Equalist gathering, she decided this speaker might just be the most beautiful woman she's ever seen.

She had long, flowing black hair that went right down to her waist. Her hair was secured in a top knot above her head as an ode to her Fire Nation heritage. The gold band and pin in her hair looked very elegant on her. Her purple eyeshadow made her bright green eyes stand out in the most wonderful way possible. Even her voice is soothing to listen to, even if it's amped up the megaphone.

Due to the fact that Korra is a very disastrous bisexual, she had a hard time focusing on the speaker's words due to how gorgeous she is. Because of course the first person Korra acknowledges as super attractive in this city happens to be an Equalist. Ugh, whatever, it's not like Korra ever needs to do more than listen to her.

Thankfully, Korra started to really pay attention to the woman's words and can honestly see where the Equalist movement is coming from. The Avatar honestly wanted to hear more, but Naga began nudging her shoulder. Her poor girl was probably starving.

Naturally, Naga ended up attracting a bit of attention as a polar bear dog in a place where they are not typically seen. A few people were glancing over their shoulder and began wearily eyeing Korra's massive companion. The Equalist speaker just so happened to be one of the people that became interested in Naga's appearance.

Yikes, it is so time for Korra to get up out of here. She ended up making eye contact with the speaker. Korra, unsure of what to do, simply smiled at the woman before guiding Naga away from the rally. This dog needed to eat, and fast.

Korra made it down to the end of the block before she realized she did not, in fact, know where she was going. It probably would've been smart to ask Beifong for a map. Or at least ask for the directions to get one. Oh boy.

"You alright? You look a little bit lost," a very pretty voice asked her.

Korra turned to see the woman who was talking to her was the speaker at the Equalist rally. This is certainly an unexpected development. Deciding to ignore the fact that this girl is even more stunning up close, Korra told her the truth.

"It's my first time in the city and I have zero clue where I'm going. I can't even find a map," the Avatar unfortunately admitted.

Equalist girl laughed at her very honest response, and Korra felt a little bit proud she got this girl to laugh. Only a little bit though. She has to maintain a small amount of self respect, after all.

"Oh, you poor thing. It's not easy to navigate this city by yourself, especially without any prior knowledge. Where are you trying to go? I was born and raised here, I'm sure I could help," the woman smiled.

It's genuinely embarrassing how Korra's stomach flipped at the 'poor thing' comment. Yeah, she needs to get her shit together if she has any hope of being a competent Avatar.

"I just need to find a decent place to eat. Preferably a place with a lot of raw meat. My polar bear dog has a big appetite," Korra explained.

"What a coincidence, I was on my way to get lunch too! There's a bunch of little vendors with the best food down the street. You can just follow my lead if you like," the woman offered.

This is genuinely incredibly convenient. Maybe the spirits are on Korra's side today.

"Thank you, I really appreciate the help," Korra sighed in relief.

"No problem. My name's Asami. And what is the name of the girl I'm dragging around Republic City?" the taller woman asked.

Damn it, her name is as pretty as she is.

"It's nice to meet you. I'm Korra. And this polar bear dog who I swear is friendly, is Naga. I understand the teeth can be a bit intimidating, but she's a total sweetheart," the Avatar replied.

"Naga is pretty cute. Just like her owner," Asami casually stated.

What. Like. What. Who. How. What.

"So, uh, what kind of food do these vendors serve?" Korra asked in what she hoped was a normal way.

Maybe Korra just imagined the compliment. Yeah, that's probably it. She's hungry, auditory hallucinations are perfectly plausible. Right?

"Oh they've got pretty much everything down there. My personal favorite are these dumplings specifically from one of the Earth Kingdom vendors. I swear they're magic," Asami told her.

"Dumplings do sound pretty good right about now," Korra noted.

Thankfully for her, she did not need to wait much longer. Her nose was hit with some of the most delightful smells she has ever experienced. Asami must have sensed her very strong desire to eat because she led Korra directly to the vendor with the most amazing looking dumplings on this planet.

"Miss Sato! Back for me I see!" the man cheerily exclaimed upon seeing Asami.

"Of course, your food is simply too delicious. We'll take two of the number five, please," Asami smiled.

"Coming right up!" the man happily agreed.

In a split second, there was two bowls of dumplings right in front of them. It only processed in Korra's mind that Asami was paying for her food when she handed one of her bowls to Korra. Oh spirits, did she think Korra is like, broke and homeless or something? That would be so embarrassing.

"Oh, I can pay, I have money on me," the Avatar insisted.

"Don't worry about it, it's my treat. Think of it as a welcome to Republic City," the very pretty woman smiled.

"That's very generous of you, thank you," Korra said.

"Of course. What does Naga eat? I'm sure she's jealous we've already got lunch," Asami asked.

Korra, who is currently very flustered, practically jumped at the chance to keep moving to distract herself. Asami paid yet again for Naga's meal even when Korra fully pulled out her coins, so that was another nice gesture. The two girls, three if you count Naga, sat down on a bench near the vendors and dug in.

"Sweet spirits you were not kidding about these dumplings. I think my life has been changed forever," Korra muttered in awe after just one bite.

"I told you I know what I'm talking about. Say, while I've got you here, what did you think of the rally I put on? I like getting opinions from the crowd. Strike a chord? Make you feel all hyped up? I'm also more than open to constructive criticism," Asami questioned.

Now this is something Korra was unsure of how to answer. Given that she doesn't know a lot about the Equalist issue yet, she would like more information before she can give any form of criticism, that's for sure. It's best to keep it broad for now.

"I didn't get to listen to much of it, but from what little I gathered it seemed to go really well. You're an eloquent public speaker and you certainly looked like you knew what you were talking about. Although, I don’t think I qualify as your target audience," Korra admitted.

The woman's brows furrowed in confusion for a moment before a certain realization came across her face.

"Would it happen to be because you're a bender?" Asami with a small grin.

Given the fact that she's not detecting any major hostility from the woman in front of her, Korra sheepishly nodded her head yes.

"I realize my opinions are rather controversial, but I believe the Equalist message is for everyone. We need benders to realize that it is unfair nonbenders get treated the way we do, especially since so many benders are in positions of power that can actually make change," Asami explained.

"That is a very good point," Korra agreed.

Well, it looks like this particular Equalist doesn't align with the extremist agenda, which is something.

"Would it be correct of me to assume you're a waterbender?" Asami asked.

That feels like a bit of an abrupt change in topic, but alright then. Even though this girl is perfectly receptive to the fact that Korra's a bender, she's not eager to find out about Asami's reaction to learning Korra's the Avatar.

"Yeah, I'm a waterbender," is all Korra decides to say.

"Makes sense. Your eyes are the most beautiful shade of blue I've ever seen. They remind me of the lake near my house," Asami smiled.

Korra's cheeks immediately burned at the compliment. The Avatar is not used to...whatever in spirits name is going on right now. In Korra's defense, the White Lotus did not prepare her for this kind of situation.

"Thank you. You have very pretty eyes too," Korra said before hastily taking another bite of her dumpling.

She is way too bisexual for this shit. Korra just needs to calm the fuck down. This Asami chick probably just has a bit of a flirty personality. It's not uncommon for girls to be naturally kind like this.

"You're very sweet, just like that smile of yours. It's infectious really. Your smile is so pretty I couldn't help but smile back up on stage," Asami giggled while resting her chin on her right hand.

This is fine. Asami is just a very nice girl. This is fine. Korra is going to ignore how red her face definitely is right now. This is fine.

"Hmm, you don't say? So what other food places do you recommend? Clearly I can trust your tastes," Korra said in an awkward attempt to change the topic.

Thankfully for her, Asami seemed to let it happen.

"I know a really nice restaurant a few blocks north of here. A bunch of Water Tribe cuisine there that I'm sure you and Naga would love," Asami told her.

Just when Korra was about to ask the name of said restaurant, she heard a pained cry that sounded awfully human. She frowned and stood up to see what the issue was. It was a bit difficult to see with the vendors blocking her sight of the street, but she managed to see who let out that cry.

Some poor older man looked absolutely terrified of the three other men surrounding him. It could very well be nothing, but that older man looks like death is knocking on his door. It's best to swing by to be safe.

"Hey, I've got to head out, places to go, people to see, all that. It was nice meeting you!" Korra said over her shoulder.

Beckoning Naga forward, Korra lightly jogged over to the block where the poor old man is. The situation did not look any better up close.

"Ah, Mr. Chen! My good man. Tell me, do you have this month's rent? I hope the answer's yes! If not, then I may be unable to protect this fine establishment," one of the three men said with feigned kindness.

A rather scary looking man with a scar on his face used firebending to light up his palm. Sweet spirits, they wanted to burn that man's place to the ground.

"Please, business has been slow, I do not have any money right now," Mr. Chen begged.

Korra paused for a moment, unsure of how to approach the situation. She could fight the guys and claim it to be self defense. But then again, Lin did say not to get into trouble. Something tells Korra that the literal chief of police is not someone to cross. Maybe she can help in a more discreet way other than an outright brawl.

The Avatar looked around to see if anyone was watching before she used her earthbending to encase those three jackasses in earth. The earth's encasements went up to their chin so they can't bend anymore. Suckers.

Mr. Chen, knowing a good thing when he sees it, hightails out of there with his merchandise still intact.

The three men were yelling and screaming about how someone was going to pay for this, blah blah blah. They couldn't even see Korra was the one who did it, the damn morons.

The Avatar then went into the nearest shop and in the most polite voice, said the words, "do you mind if I use your phone? I need to call the police."

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

Korra is beat. After she made sure those trio of jerks got taken away in cuffs, she simply roamed around the city until the sun began to set. Now she's just sitting on the docs and is considering the day's events.

Republic City is...well...a lot. That is to be expected, of course, but it's certainly different experiencing the city firsthand than just anticipating how it really is. Equalist rallies, overly kind women, run in with a bunch of stupid benders that though they were above the law, all around a pretty exciting day.

Korra's contemplations were cut short when she saw Tenzin and his kids approach them. She hastily stood up in order to greet them. Yikes, he did not look happy. The kids, on the other hand, seemed utterly ecstatic to see her. Hopefully Korra can work with that.

"KORRA!" the three airbending kids exclaimed as they launched themselves onto her.

Jinora was clinging to her back, Ikki was placed comfortably on her left side while Meelo was on her right. Man, she missed these kids.

"Korra I learned this super cool new airbending trick! Check it out!" Meelo exclaimed.

"It's been forever since we've seen you! Are you really going to live with us? Are you finally going to learn airbending? How will you-," Ikki rambled.

It was never boring with Ikki and Meelo around, that's for sure.

"Please tell me you're staying, these people are driving me insane!" Jinora hopelessly whispered into her air.

Korra laughed at Jinora's desperation. The Avatar can see how it might be a tad exhausting being constantly surrounded by two people much younger than you as your only form of social life.

"So are we going to talk about why you, the Avatar, decided to frolic to Republic City without telling the White Lotus? You know, the people that my father decided would take on the responsibility of your care?" Tenzin glared.

At once, the three children released their grip on Korra and floated right back on the ground. They knew that Korra is in some serious trouble. A small, weak part of her wanted to purposefully hide behind Tenzin's kids in hopes their father will loosen up.

"Do I acknowledge the fact that maybe running away from home was not the best plan of action? Yes, yes I do. But I would like to remind you that Avatar Aang ran away from home and what do you know! He stopped the Hundred Year War! Yay running away from home!" Korra cheered.

"Must you bring my father into this?" Tenzin sighed.

"If that's what it takes to convince you to let me stay, then yes," Korra nodded.

"The White Lotus are not pleased," Tenzin warned.

"I can deal with Rakin and his hissy fits. I'm not worried about him. What I am worried about is the state that Republic City is in. I can't just turn my back on people who need me," Korra confidently told him.

Tenzin let out a very long, very tired sigh. Then, he turned around and started walking to his air bison.

"Come along then, Pema should be finished with dinner. The White Lotus will be expecting a call from you before you go to sleep," Tenzin informed her.

Korra's relief of being able to stay was nothing compared to the excitement of Jinora, Ikki, and Meelo. The Avatar simply smiled and nodded as the children kept rambling on about all the fun stuff they can do together while she's on the island. At least some people are happy to see her in Republic City.

Once they got to Air Temple Island, Korra practically inhaled her dinner. Pema knows how to cook, that's for damn sure. Korrra figures that she may as well call Rakin now that she's eaten. No point in prolonging her own torture.

Admittedly, Korra is not listening to Rakin scolding her. She's tired, alright?

"-do not think for one second this action will not have consequences, young lady! You must remember your duty as the Avatar," Rakin snapped.

"I know who I am. I plan to live and die for the Four Nations, just as you've been telling me for years. I may as well have those words etched on my skin with how many times I've said it," Korra huffed with a roll of her eyes.

"You exhaust me," Rakin simply stated.

"Walking fifteen steps exhausts you, old man. On that note, I gotta hit the hay. Later hater!" Korra smiled.

Despite Rakin's yelling over the phone, she still hung up on him. It's really funny making him mad. Now Korra's going to call people that don't give her a migraine. Most of the time.

It only took one ring for Kyuka to answer her call. To Korra's convenience, Delak was already with her. Upon Kyuka's request, Korra told them every detail she could think of about her brief time in Republic City.

"Spirits Korra, that's an insane first day," Delak muttered on the other end of the line.

"You're telling me," Korra sighed as she tugged the phone cord.

"So. The Equalist girl was hot," Kyuka said into the phone.

"Seriously? I have a run in with a trio of bending freaks and you focus on the fact that I chatted with some girl?" Korra scoffed.

"You literally just said she was hot, she kept complimenting you, and she paid for your food. She's totally into you. Besides, this is the definition of a forbidden love story! On opposite sides of the same war, will love prevail?! Stay tuned to find out more!" the waterbender teased.

"Delak, do not let her watch anmore drama plays while I'm gone. She's confusing fantasy with reality," Korra snorted.

"Duly noted," Delak chuckled.

"You two are no fun, I swear! Is it so wrong to want Korra to have a thrilling star crossed romance? My life is so boring with just Delak for company, I need to live vicariously through you!" Kyuka whined. Both girls very pointedly ignored Delak's indignant 'hey!'.

"Uka, I love you, I really do, but I beg of you to be realistic. Asami's just a random woman I met and had a small conversation with. I know nothing about her but her name. Believe it or not, Republic City is huge. I genuinely don't think I'm ever going to see her again," Korra scoffed.

"You wanna bet on it?" Kyuka asked with a mischievous tone in her voice.

Korra genuinely had to laugh at her friend's words. Did Kyuka really think that Korra was just going to bump into the same woman twice in a place packed with tens of thousands of people?

"Can I get in on this too? To be so clear, I'm on Korra's side," Delak chimed in.

That was in his best interest. Korra can not remember the last time Kyuka has won one of their friendly wagers.

"Deal. Okay, mom's birthday is in six months, so I'll definitely be coming back home for that. Delak and I bet you ten gold pieces each that I won't see the Equalist girl again until at least after I visit on my mom's birthday," Korra boldly declared.

"Oh you are so on!" Kyuka laughed.

The Avatar went to bed that night under the assumption that she would be ten gold coins richer in six months. If only Korra knew just how fast she would lose that bet. If only Korra knew.

[leeneir]

Duo AU; Pro Gamer Iso x Violinist!Reader (Part 1)

I check the iso x reader tag EVERYDAY. FOR ISO CONTENT. Sadly, Iso isn't that popular. Sigh. Guess I'll do it myself.

AU inspired by those public pianist trends on yt and my Iso x OC ship as always. Along with that one toxic pro gamer Iso x reader on here, i fking love that au sm. (Hes not toxic in this one tho lol)

Pro Valorant player Zhao Yu, better known by his internet name "Dead Lilac" is a mechanically gifted one-trick main whose name is famous all over the gaming community.

Professional Violinist "Reader", famous for their musical talent and prodigal like abilities, having climbed up the ranks and becoming renowed in the music community and on social media.

Iso finishes up a stream with a sigh, the ratio of wins to losses was bad today, how disappointing. Zhao Yu lays in bed, taking a brief moment of rest before he continued on with his day.

His roommate Omen is playing with the cat when he goes to the kitchen to get something to eat, they talk for a bit, and the cat starts purring at his feet. He picks it up and just does a stare off with the thing while it paws at his face (without claws), and blows a rasberry. Omen chuckles.

Omen brings up the fact that his friends are going out for an outting later, Zhao Yu decides to get ready. He wears his signature hoodie ofc.

Jamie, Sunwoo, Tala, Tayane, and Mateo come along. Sadly, Ryo couldn't come. He was too busy with his drift practice or whatever. Tala says her brother was just too lazy to come.

They all meet up at the mall where they go shopping and do whatever, discussing random whatnots and getting up to antics. And then they find a piano in public and Jamie tells Zhao Yu to play something, they'll record it and post it online because why not? He's really good at playing it too.

Zhao Yu decides to humor them and gets on the piano, trying to think of a piece to play before he starts.

His fingers cross the keys with grace and practiced ease, playing a romantic classical version of a popular song. Zhao Yu finds himself lost in the music piece as strangers began turning heads and pausing in their step. He can feel his friends' eyes on him as Phoenix' camera records him, and he finds himself becoming more confident with each note he plays.

Unbeknowst to him, as he was nearing the chorus, one stranger came up and opened a peculiar shaped bag, pulling out a violin out of it. The moment Zhao Yu plays the chorus note, a new instrument joined him.

He almost paused, but his fingers kept playing. Somehow, he and the violinist were perfectly in sync. He turned his head without lifting his fingers, and he see's the stranger playing the instrument, and he's awed by their ability.

More people crowd around as they watch the duet, enchanted by the melody and harmony while Jamie continues recording. Zhao Yu and the stranger play until the end of the song. When they finished, the whole crowd applauded and cheered. It sort of reminded Zhao Yu of the music recitals he did when he was younger.

He gets off the piano and approaches his duet, complimenting them on their skill and giving his name, which the stranger responded with their own.

Reader and Zhao Yu chat about the piece they just played, and Jamie and Mateo run in with the video, showing it to both of them. It's then that Zhao Yu saw Reader passing by before they decided to play, and he's amazed at how easily they synced up to him without missing a note.

Mateo then says that he was a fan of Reader which promptly confused Zhao Yu. Was Reader someone famous? Jamie asked for permission to post the video which Reader granted without issue.

They continued talking for a moment up until Reader said that they had an appointment to get to and excused themself.

By the time that was over, Zhao Yu's friend group went nuts. Apparently having held themselves back from "ruining his chances", whatever that meant. Jamie and Mateo however couldn't hold themselves which is why they approached. Sunwoo proceeded to shake him uncontrollably for not getting Reader's number. When he asked why he needed it, Tala called him a "lonely bastard".

He asks if they knew her since Mateo did, and he was told that Reader was a social media influencer known for their violin talent.

Jamie sent the video to Zhao Yu's editor and they continued on with their hangout. Though, the duet still played on the back of his mind throughtout.

Timeskip to later that night, Zhao Yu realized that maybe he should have gotten Reader's number, and also why Tala called him lonely. Omen watched the video too and acknowledged Reader's social media presence which made Zhao Yu wonder just how popular they were if even his roommate knew about them.

The next day, Iso's editor had the video ready and posted. And it was doing numbers.

As it turns out, a duet between a pro gramer and a famous violinist was bound to go viral and become so popular that it was trending on every platform.

Both to his confusion and surprise, his fans went crazy with the shipping. He knew what it was only because his online group and team engaged in such antics. Although he wasn't sure how Reader would react. He only just recently followed them on their socials and was surprised to find out that they were already a follower.

His twitch chat wouldn't shut up about the duet and he recounted the story of how that moment came to be. And they went haywire. Zhao Yu found ship edits of him and Reader from the duet video and things were getting out of hand. He was worried of how this would affect them considering they weren't part of this side of the community, much less even in this community.

He found a response from Reader regarding the duet, and to his relief it was mostly positive. They even addressed a part of the response directly to him, asking if they should record an official one if he wanted to.

Now, Zhao Yu was open to collabs. But for some reason, this one had him staring at his screen for minutes as the type bar blinked in the chat box, it was Reader's instagram.

He decided that it wouldn't hurt to add some music content into his gaming content and wanted to reach out to Reader to inquire about that collab idea they proposed. Except... he was nervous.

Why was he though? It made no sense. Zhao Yu didn't get nervous, so why was he? He's done this dozens of times, so why was it any different now?

Mustering up all the courage he could, he typed a few letters and sent the message without leaving room to think it over.

On Reader's phone, a notification popped up from instagram messages. They opened it up, it was from Iso?!

"Hey" they read.

Yknow, this has been sitting in my drafts for 3 weeks. Finally glad i got this out even if some parts are uncohseive

[kuriboo]

Yusaku for the character ask meme?

I watched Vrains as it aired, and I hooked onto Yusaku very quickly. It did not take long for me at all to look at Yusaku and see myself in him. Quickly my favorite character in Vrains, and remains so to this day. Before I was brainrotting about Yuga Ohdo, I was brainrotting about Yusaku Fujiki. I can still brainrot about Yusaku Fujiki like muscle memory if I put my mind to it; it's not that I'm brainrotting over him any less, I'm just very hyperfixated on the rush era rn.

Why I like them/why I don’t

What don't i like about Yusaku?

I love that he's a very...different yugioh hero. Sort of like how Yusei is, but with less racism and more cyberterrorism. Someone who the powers that be see as a threat, but the common guy comes to see as good. Someone who isn't doing this for fame, status, an image. He does what he does for himself and the people he cares about; he goes after Hanoi for revenge, goes after Lightning for Kusanagi (at least, initially, he does jump on the humans and AI can coexist train very quickly though), goes after Ai for, well, Ai. He's selfish, he's allowed to be, the narrative doesn't villainize him for it.

He also comes preloaded with trauma that we learn about very quickly, learn more about how it's even worse as time goes on, and then we get to watch him go through more trauma. We get to watch him give up because he feels he has nothing left and doesn't want to fight anymore. I love a guy in agony.

What I like about their appearance

His IRL appearance is everything to me. Look at his fucking hair. He's so Yugioh and I love it. Blue is my favorite color and he has so much blue going on. The pink is such a nice contrast and helped me appreciate pink and stop hating pink. He's got beautiful green eyes. His outfits are his school uniform, the uniform for Cafe Nagi, and a black hoodie (and pants, I don't remember what the pants for that looked like).

The outfit in Vrains? I really like it when the lines glow different colors based on what kind of monster he's summoning from his Extra Deck. That's a neat touch. Obviously I still like his eyes, same eyes. The rest of it? It's not a bad design, but doesn't appeal to me personally. I prefer IRL Yusaku.

OTP

Yusaku/Takeru. I am firestormshipping's strongest soldier (or at least, I used to be, back when it qualified as a rarepair...) Holds these two boys in my hands. It's about living through the same trauma but learning that not everything that came of it is bad and learning to heal together. Also the contrast between fire, something that creates light, and darkness, something that snuffs it out.

NOTP Datastormshipping unless it's done a specific way. Tala reminded me that when it's done a specific way, I do actually like it quite a bit, though.

OT3

Disastershipping (Yusaku/Takeru/Ryoken) leads to some really funny interactions.

Favourite card they use

Oh, he has so many good ones....

Firewall Dragon (sweet prince banned shortly after his debut), Linkuriboh, Cyberse Magician, and Update Jammer are all up there, though. If I had to pick one, I think Cyberse Magician is an unsung hero who deserves more praise. I cheered when Yusaku ritual summoned. I love ritual summons.

Linkuriboh did get this screenshot though lol

ANYWAY, if you haven't watched yugioh vrains yet, you're missing out.

[bodhrancomedy]

Hey, hey, who wants one of my favourite scenes from Tocktick the second highest voted novel in my poll?

(I’m working on Flies in Amber, I gotta redo the beginning)

“Why are you up?” Talas asked.

“Why are you?”

Raising an eyebrow at the bite in the other man’s question, Talas leant back on his box. “My body does not like me. Pain is hard to ignore after dark.”

“Oh. ‘m sorry.” It was genuine.

“So, why are you up?”

Sixsmith looked away. “Just am.”

“… can I request a better answer?”

“No. Fuck off.” Then he sighed and ran a hand through his hair. “Dun’t tell Emmett.”

Talas tapped his heart twice. “Sun-God’s Oath.”

“’m… havin’ trouble sleepin’. Nightmares.”

“What kind of nightmares?”

Sixsmith hunched, hands clasping the mug like a lifeline. “Bad ones.”

Talas cleared his throat hesitantly. “I suppose that makes sense.”

“What does?”

“The nightmares must be terrifying.”

“What?”

“We are having a civil conversation.”

Sixsmith laughed. “We are, aren’t we?”

“I do declare the sky is about to fall.”

He laughed again and Talas felt himself crack a smile. He edged closer to the other man and took a swig of his tea. “What are they about?”

Sixsmith smiled weakly but said nothing.

Talas swallowed another mouthful, feeling the burn down his throat. “If it makes you feel better,” he began slowly, “My worst nightmare is about being chased by a goat.”

A splutter from beside him made him grin. Sixsmith looked up, eyes wide. “A goat?”

“Have you ever seen a Heliokratos goat?”

“No?”

“They are petrifying. Big, golden, three great big – uh –“ Talas made a crown of fingers on his forehead – “spikes…?”

“Horns?”

“Yes! Horns!” he scratched his neck and confessed, “I lied. They are not so very big, but they do have three great horns. I was chased by two as a boy.”

“What did you do?” Sixsmith sat forwards, his eyes gleaming and not just from the fire.

Talas shrugged modestly. “It was a dare. There was a farm not too far from the boarding school. I was trying to take a handful of their… uh… fluff. Wool. They woke up and chased me. I barely made it over the fence.”

Even thought he was expecting it, the bark of laughter from his right made him jump. Sixsmith’s shoulders were shaking, even as he clamped a hand over his mouth to stifle the sound.

Hastily wiping the trickle of hot tea down the side of his mug, Talas said archly, “I am glad my nightmare is so amusing.”

“‘M sorry, Talas, but you deserved that one.” Sixsmith took a few fortifying breaths before adding, “It’s just a funny image, you as a wee kid in some fancy uniform runnin’ hell fer leather ‘cross a field wi’ a massive goat on your heels.” He leant over and gently clapped Talas’ shoulder, “Such a diff’rence to the res-pect-able man before me tonight.”

“It was the night time. I was in my pyjamas.”

Sixsmith held up a hand, “My apologies.”

“We spent most of the night trying to wash out the mud before the matron found out,” Talas protested, “it was a memorable experience and I do not know why I do not dream more of that, but evidently the goat made a greater impression.” He paused for effect, taking another sip of tea. “I could not sit properly for days.”

He saw Sixsmith grin, but he had turned back to the fire. He was gripping the cracked mug again, his knuckles white skulls against the cheerful yellow.

Keeping his voice as light as he could, Talas said, “So, what are your nightmares about?” He tried a cheerful smile, but knew it looked as fake as it felt. “Now that you know that mine are utterly unimpressive.”

Silence save for the crackling of the fire answered him. The air was suddenly heavy and thick, the shadows seeming just a little darker.

Talas waited, heart thudding and hardly daring to breathe.

Sixsmith’s adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed conclusively. Once, twice. He opened his mouth and shut it again, shaking his head.

“I apologise. I was prying. Rude of me, I know -“

“People without eyes.” Sixsmith’s voice was low, but Talas heard him perfectly. “I dream about people who dun’t have any eyes.”

[caregivingchrysalises]

my little love you’ve been doing such a good job angel. i’m so proud of you hun, you’re doing so well dewdrop. you’re allowed to take a break precious, you deserve to take time to rest and recharge~ your buba doesn’t spend all zer time flying now does he? of course not angel, everyone needs to rest lovebug, prinxes and little doves alike. we have time to take a break honey, it’s okay to take time out of your day for yourself, it’s your day after all,, ♡

breaks are so important!! it’s lovely outside today~ the sun is out and the birds are singing so many songs i’m starting to feel like summer is nearly here!

rain or shine, i’m wishing you well and cheering you on!

~ hugs, ‘tala

[nerdasaurus1200]

With the trailer coming out I couldn’t resist doing a little ficlet of Moana and her little sister, inspired by a deleted scene from the first movie.

Know The Way

“Aue, aue! Hurry up!!” The little princess cried as she sprinted across the beach. Her elder sister smiles behind her, following in her trail without a care in the world.

“First day of sailing, Mo!” She cheered and practically launched herself into the boat in an attempt to push it into the sea, “Come on, let’s go!” Despite the boat being immensely larger than her, she was able to push it all by herself! But then suddenly it stopped, and she looked up to see Moana holding the boat in place.

“Ah, ah, Tala. No boats today.” Moana instructed and scooped her up away from the boat.

“Awww, what?!” Tala groaned, “But how can I be a great sailor like you if I don’t get on a boat?!”

“It’s not just sailing, little minnow. It’s wayfinding.” Moana reminded. Once she was far enough away from the boat, she set Tala down and sat in front of her.

“Don’t we need boats to find our way?” Tala rolled her eyes and crossed her arms, and Moana couldn’t help but giggle. Their mother was right, Tala looked every bit like Moana used to at her age, pout and all.

“It’s far more than boats, Tala. It’s knowing where you are, by knowing where you’ve been.” Moana explained.

“That’s easy, Mo, I’m right here!” Tala said, and Moana gave her a mysterious smile. Uh oh…dang it, Moana only gave her that face if she knew she won somehow.

“And where is here, little sister?” Moana contested.

Tala opened her mouth to answer, and then closed it again, furrowing her brow in thought, “Um…Montunui?”

“You’re right, but where is Montunui? Where are you in Montunui?” Moana posed more questions, and turned her sister to the village, “How many steps do you think it would take for you to make it to our house?���

Tala tilted her head in curiosity as she eyes their house off in the distance. It looked pretty far away, but then they were further up the hill.

“Oh, definitely a lot. Maybe…600? 700?” Tala guessed.

“Go find out.” Moana encouraged, and gave her a string of beads, “One bead for every step, so you don’t lose track.”

“Okay!!” Tala grinned and quickly went to work. Moana leaned against the boat to watch Tala, silently surveying her to make sure she didn’t lose track or get lost. Around the 346th step (she was a third of the way now, not bad for her first day), Moana felt the water climb up her leg and laughed softly.

“I know, I know you’re eager for her to sail too.” She leaned down to pet the ocean, “But there’s a lot for her to learn. She’ll be out there soon enough, when she’s ready.”

[hellovivirose]

“Happy memories were not unknown to me. My father was a proud soldier, and my mother was kind, cheerful and a great cook. Deep within my memories there was a warm household and, inside there, scenes of laughter. But that was a faint memory.”

After doodling Kai with his parents as a kid I needed to do Tala/Yuriy too, but this one hits different…

I’m not crying you’re crying.

[maylalupa]

Sirens Are Leading The Way (Aladdin Snippet and sequel to Can’t Change the Past)

Warning: blood and minor character death

—————————————————————

In the bustling marketplace of Agrabah, the sun shone brightly over the colorful stalls, fragrant spices mingling in the air with the laughter of merchants and townsfolk. Among them walked Aladdin, a grin plastered across his face, reveling in the warmth of another normal day. Yet, something seemed different. He noticed his father, Cassim—the former King of Thieves—moving about with a bounce in his step and a lilt to his voice that hadn’t been present before. Cassim’s transformation had sparked the curiosity of the entire town. He was more cheerful and talkative than ever, frequently flashing a radiant smile that lit up his features. And Mozenrath, the ever-skeptical sorcerer, seemed more irritable than usual.

“You’re worried for no reason,” Aladdin reassured Mozenrath one evening as they strolled along the palace grounds, the sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. “Isn’t it wonderful? He’s finally moving on. Maybe he was just waiting for someone like her. People have the right to be happy. Especially our father.”

“Happy?” Mozenrath scoffed, brushing his dark hair back. “I’ve seen Cassim’s mood swing like a pendulum. There’s something he’s hiding, Al.” He paused, contemplating, his eyes narrowing. “And that ‘something’ has a name—Tala.”

Aladdin’s smile faltered. “Tala? You think she’s changed him for the worse?”

“The moment you’re enthralled by someone, it raises my suspicions,” Mozenrath replied decisively. “Mark my words, Aladdin, love blinds even the cleverest of men. I am going to find out exactly who this ‘Tala’ is.”

Yet Mozenrath could not let it go; his instincts told him something darker was at play. While Aladdin relished the thought of Cassim moving on, Mozenrath’s mind spun with stories of deceit. After careful deliberation, he sent Xerxes, his eel-like familiar, to tail Cassim’s new companion. The reports that filtered back were troubling.

“I’ve got your reports, my lord. It’s… interesting,” Xerxes relayed, his voice a sinister whisper.

“Spit it out,” Mozenrath ordered impatiently.

“Tala dislikes seafood—runs in the opposite direction when she smells it. And water? She hates to get wet. And then there’s her singing…” Xerxes hesitated, eyeing Mozenrath as if searching for validation for his odd claim.

“What about her singing?” Mozenrath pressed.

“When she sings, it’s like Cassim is under a spell. He does whatever she asks—hypnotized, my lord!” Xerxes exclaimed, clearly disturbed by the implications.

Mozenrath’s suspicions deepened as he delved into his library, scouring ancient tomes and texts. He found confirmation in the form of a dusty old grimoire, leafing through it until he found the ominous entry—that spoke of sirens: Siren, a creature of enchantment and manipulation, luring sailors to their demise with songs. “She’s a siren,” Mozenrath muttered to himself. “She’s trying to ensnare him for herself!”

As Mozenrath rushed off to confront Aladdin over the findings, the young prince was deeply engrossed in arranging festivities for an illustrious visitor from a neighboring kingdom. “You won’t believe what I’ve discovered!” Mozenrath exclaimed, clutching the book tightly as he entered the grand hall. “Cassim’s fondness for this woman doesn’t just signal romance. She’s dangerous!”

“Dangerous? You’ve read too many fantasy books!” Aladdin snapped, throwing his hands up in frustration. “What’s next? Are you going to accuse her of witchcraft too? Dad has found romance, and I’m happy for him. Let it be.”

“Romance? Aladdin, this is serious! This woman—Tala—she could be a siren! We’ve battled them before!” Mozenrath pressed, desperation lining his voice.

“Stop it, Mozenrath! You’re being ridiculous! This is just romantic jealousy.” Aladdin turned, ready to dismiss Mozenrath’s worries, but the brothers’ argument erupted, fueled by their different perspectives.

The two brothers argued fiercely, but Aladdin’s convictions stood firm. He left Mozenrath in a huff, dismissing his concerns as mere paranoia. Mozenrath, feeling marginalized, devised a new plan. He would confront Cassim directly. That evening, he found Cassim and Tala in a secluded garden. As Cassim leaned closer, entranced by Tala’s melodic voice, Mozenrath stepped forward, determined to break the spell he suspected she had cast.

“Tala! Show yourself, you deceiver!” he shouted.

Tala turned, a knowing smile on her lips. “Mozenrath, always so dramatic. You can’t splash away the waves of emotion.”

Mozenrath, using his power, conjured a wave of water to drown her song. However, she effortlessly deflected it, her hands weaving through the air as if parting the currents themselves.

“Enough,” she said, her voice a velvet whisper filled with malice. “You cannot interfere with my plans, sorcerer.”

As the sound of waves and an eerie calm enveloped the space around them, Cassim stood frozen, clearly under her spell. In desperation, Mozenrath yelled, “Father! Fight it!”

As Mozenrath began to draw breath to conjure a more powerful spell, Tala seized her moment. “Come with me, Cassim!” she commanded, her voice like silk and honey. And just like that, he followed her, an obedient puppy chasing after its mistress. “Let’s head to the shore, where we can be alone…”

Realizing time was slipping away, Mozenrath rushed to find Aladdin. “Aladdin! We must go now! Tala is a siren! She’s lured Cassim away to the shores!”

But Aladdin stood amidst a gathering of his guests, and Mozenrath couldn’t contain his urgency. “Your father is in danger!” he shouted, eyes wild in the bright light of day.

“Oh for the love of—” Aladdin began, but Jasmine cut in.

“Aladdin, Remember Saleen? The siren? It’s possible!” she urged, her expression turning serious.

Realization swept over Aladdin, in an instant, Aladdin’s activism fused with his instinctual need to protect his family. "Mozenrath, you're right! Tala must be connected to Saleen! Let’s go!” he commanded, leading the way.

On the sands, under a twilight sky painted in shades of purple and gold, Cassim stood mesmerized as Tala’s voice wrapped around him like a silken thread. “You will be mine forever,” she crooned, her radiant beauty glistening under the moonlight, as waves crashed rhythmically.

Mozenrath and Aladdin burst forward, taking in the scene that unfolded. “Tala…” Mozenrath seethed. “Or should I say Saleen?”

“Indeed,” she smirked, revealing her true identity. “Cassim will join me beneath the waves, transforming into a merman forever!”

“Your time has ended!” Mozenrath’s voice thundered, sending a wave of dark magic toward her.

In that instant, Mozenrath launched forward, unleashing his powers against Saleen. The ensuing battle was fierce; blasts of magic collided with waves of water, black sand blasted into the air. “You can build your sand castles as big as you want, sorcerer,” Saleen taunted, “but water will always wash it away!”

During the chaos, Cassim felt his anger boil. The siren had twisted his affection with cruel laughter and playful melodies. In a shocking moment of clarity, Cassim leapt between Mozenrath and Saleen, drawing a dagger—a lethal reflection of grief and determination. “Leave my sons out of this!”

With a swift motion, he plunged the dagger into her heart. Stunned silence engulfed the beach as Saleen’s body slumped lifelessly to the ground, a dark shimmer dissipating into the sand. “Where is your power now?” he spat, anger surging as he remembered all she had taken from him.

Cassim stood shaken, the weight of his actions crashing down around him as he looked to his sons, horror and pride mingling in his gaze.

“What have you done?” Aladdin murmured, astonished, both proud and horrified at their father’s ferocity.

“I’ve killed before,” Cassim whispered, revealing the anguish buried deep within him. “But I did it to protect you. She mocked my past. She threatened the only family I have left.”

As Cassim’s rage calmed, Mozenrath and Aladdin shared a look of profound surprise. The three returned to Agrabah together as the night fell, gathering in the palace to celebrate their narrow escape.

Under the stars, drinks flowed freely, and laughter filled the air. “Well, not every day you discover your father is a stone-cold killer,” Aladdin teased, clinking his cup against Mozenrath’s.

Cassim smiled, a genuine warmth emanating from him. “Let us drink to family—no matter how complicated it can be.”

And with that toast, they embraced the chaos of their lives, ready to face an uncertain future together.

[textingtroublesanswers]

I think you did Misha! Congratulations!

*Tala claps excitedly while Joel nods his head at Mikhail*

Whadideyetell ya? Can't give up right before a win! Cheers to Mishaaa!!

*Joel raises his bottle up before chugging the entire thing down*

-🦖

"If you keep encouraging his gambling habits, I'm going to decapitate you & keep your alive head in my fridge." Ludwig growls. Misha starts cheering & wooping when he realises he's won, yanking Ludwig out of his seat & crushing him in a hug. He attempts to give Lutz a kiss, but the doktor pulls a face (he stinks like booze) & turns his head away.

"Aww... Lutzenka, I won thing for you, give me kiss."

"Brush your teeth, first."

"OK!" The moment Misha jumps out of his seat, he falls back down, misses his chair entirely, and collapses onto the floor.

[entityfromthevoids]

Oliver's family is quite well known in Unova. His mother was an official for one of the Gym Leaders, while his brother made it up to the third elite four member. Oliver however, didn't exactly know what he wanted to do with his life. The thought of taking on the elite four was too daunting, and he much preferred tinkering away in the garage. However he had to leave the comfort of home when two things happened: One, his childhood friend Gemma received an offer to start her practice on a small archipelago. And two, his brother Mateo went missing.

THE TEAM:

Sparky (Jolteon | Male): Caught as a pair of Eevee with his best friend Gemma. Sparky loves to chew on things he shouldn't and take up all the space on the bed when Oliver is trying to sleep.

Tron (Magnezone): Caught as Magnemite at the Virbank Complex. Rather goofy, loves to cheer Oliver up when he's down by making silly noises and spinning upside down.

Hobbs (Bellibolt | Male): Caught as a Tadbolt. A new addition to the team. He loves to listen to music and will often add to it by drumming on his belly.

Tala (Perrserker | Female): Gifted as a Galarian Meowth. She protects the team when out and about on missions acting as the smallest of loyal guards.

Nicks (Toxitricity | Female): Hatched from an egg as a Toxel. Loves to strum her chest protrusions to play alongside Oliver's guitar and hype up the other Pokemon during battles or play time.

Flint (Excadrill | Male): Caught as a Drilbur. Often helps with carrying supplies, but he does enjoy just sitting down next to Oliver while he's tinkering and eating some of his favorite berries.

[mewly]

"Her stubbornness and drive rivals Aloy’s which isn’t something she’s really faced with a companion before" ikrie and talanah are laughing somewhere

I don’t even personally ship Seyloy if that’s what you’re mad about 😂

Anyway you’ve missed the point of what I said there entirely. So allow me explain!

Tl;dr: Seyka’s stubbornness and drive is harsh like Aloy’s, Talanah’s isn’t (and Ikrie isn’t a companion so she didn’t have the same impact), they are different, and I thought narratively that Seyka’s would have had a bigger impact than it did.

This is what I said in literally the next line: “Aloy got to see what it’s like to be on the receiving end of that instead of the perpetrator.”

I said at first I thought Seyka’s character was created to act as a mirror of Aloy, (with the similar personality traits, both mission driven, finding a focus and younger sister rescue) so that Aloy could experience firsthand how she has previously acted towards others with her own drive and stubbornness making her leave them behind and letting her know how that felt from an outside perspective. Let’s be honest, Aloy can he harsh at times because of her mission and weight of it and that comes across in her drive, we’ve seen companions like Varl and Erend comment on this before. Seyka was written to be the same way. She’s quite brash and rude at times towards Aloy, whereas no other companion has been to that extent before. She’s not afraid to snap at Aloy.

I believed as the dlc went on that Aloy would have an epiphany moment - since Varl isn’t there to explain these things to her anymore - like “oh damn this is how they all felt”, further pushing Aloy towards letting people in and changing her mentality to be more open in H3, and in turn helping Seyka open up too. It was her whole character arc in HFW so I assumed it would continue into the dlc. BUT, that isn’t what happened sadly. It was romance coded instead.

As the DLC went on, I clicked that Seyka was written to be our first love interest, and not her own character like all the other companions. And I’ll stand by that conclusion. People can all argue until the cows come home that Seyka’s her own character, but this is my opinion and I don’t think she is right now, 90% of her character is Aloy’s recycled, mashed up with everything we’d seen from our previous companions to make her this “all rounder”, and it’s just not as good. Which is why the character mirror theme would’ve made more sense to me narratively. (It’s also why I can’t ship it, I think they’d clash long term. Too similar ya know?Anyway, I’m off topic.)

Aloy is pushed into the supporting role at times with Seyka, which is jarring to us as the players. (That might also account for why I felt like a major third wheel the entire main plot of the dlc lol, I didn’t feel like I was in Aloy’s place anymore, but I digress).

In regards to Talanah and Ikrie, Talanah is a huge positive force from the get go in HZD, her banter is cheerful, and she willingly helps Aloy. There’s no real pushback in HFW after a brief conversation (eg. Talanah agrees to go back when she’s hurt, whereas Aloy tries to push onward until she’s physically forced to stop by her wounds after the Hades proving lab), Talanah’s stubbornness and drive is admirable but it is different from Aloy’s and that’s just fact. Ikrie is a DLC side character (not a companion ergo she won’t have the same impact on the story) that I genuinely don’t remember much of so I can’t comment there, but I know even she didn’t act like Seyka does towards Aloy, (which as I said before, comes across a little rude at times).

I genuinely hope that clears things up for you about what I meant from that line.

I was trying to be positive in my wording in that review, so that anons, such as yourself, didn’t jump down my throat for “not liking Seyka or Seyloy” since discourse was rampant then. But as always people find something to be mad at! 😂

But a word of advice if I may? Clearly you prefer Talanah and Ikrie for Aloy, or as characters in general, which is fine. Ships ahoy! But ships aren’t the be all and end all of fandoms nor should they be, and this game is so much more than ship discourse and I’d hate to see it reduced to such now that romance has been confirmed in whatever extent that may be, it’s a phenomenal game series and I could write about the themes and narrative behind it (or potential themes lol) until my fingers bleed. I didn’t like Seyloy because it didn’t make sense to me narratively, not because “omg a new girl kissed Aloy and my ship is now dead nooo wahhh”. Some people like Seyka and/or Seyloy, some people don’t, and I’m indifferent to it all mostly. And that is ALL okay (as long as you’re not like, one of those homophobes who tanked the reviews of course because of it).

Anyways all the best nonny.

[cuteteacakes]

nvrcmplt

nothin' wrong with it hun, you're hurt from the lack of YOI film that was promised for years to come. your love for ur things isn't going to die out just on the back burner cuz of how it's a blow to ur love for it. nothin' wrong with holdin' back on buying t hings or makin' your space a little more open to new ventures but nothing wrong with feelin this way boo. collections are collections at the end of the day, thrive with whatevers got ya by the horns. never feel regret in buying things that made you happy at the time cause then what would be the point of buying it in the moment in the first place? just love what you got, if you get more in the future do it, if not, no worries, move onto the next thing. cheer up hun xoxo

Tala making me feel better about things

[m0rn1ngstar28]

Chibs x OC x Tig Part 1

So this is my first posting here. Started SOA over recently and fell back in love with these two. This will be a full story and each chapter will be a part. I'm not very fast at coming up with content so please be patient with me. Hope ya like it. It does have implications of smut but nothing too descriptive...yet.

Words:3919

Paring: Chibs x Tala (OC)

Summary: Bobby's adopted daughter returns to Charming. The club will not be the same now that she's back. However, what will happen when something dark has followed her home. Will the club accept it or will they push her out due to it? *Smut in later parts*

The sound of the motorcycle’s engine roared down the street as it got closer to the mechanic shop Teller-Morrow. Pulling into the shop’s lot all eyes fell on the new rider. Parking as close to the office as possible the rider pulled off their helmet. Long, dark, loose curls, cascaded down the rider’s back. She turned towards the onlooking motorcycle club members. The secretary of the group jumped up and quickly made his way towards the new comer.

“Hey there ol’ man.” The new comer smiled, causing the rest of the club members to start their way over towards them.

In mock hurt, and some dramatic theatrics the man pulled the new comer into his arms. “Hey kid.” He placed a light kiss to their hair line. “How was the ride?”

“Long. But oh so enjoyable. Finally got this ol’ girl purring like a kitten under me.” The new comer smirked.

By this time the rest of the club had circled around the two. One specifically laughing at the crude comment just made.

“Who’s this Bobby?” A blonde male asked while looking in the new comer’s direction.

“This is-“

“I’m Tala.” She smiled as she reached a hand out to shake his.

“Jax.” He smiled back as he shook her hand.

“Back off boys, she’s off limits.” Bobby warned while making direct eye contact with a curly haired, blue eyed, man standing to the right of Tala.

“I haven’t even introduced myself yet. Why you looking at me like that?” The man Bobby practically glared at questioned.

“He’s looking at you like that cause I look like sex on legs, and he’s overprotective.” Tala smiled a sickly-sweet smile in the direction of the dark-haired man.

“Is that my baby girl?” A woman’s voice called from the office area.

“Help mom! I’m surrounded my dirty ol’ men!” Tala laughed as the matriarch jogged her way to her, also laughing.

“Who ya callin’ dirty?” A silver haired man asked from behind the matriarch.

“With the look I’m getting from that one, and that one,” Tala smiled as she pointed at the dark-haired man and another man with scars on his face, “I’m callin’ at very least them dirty, but knowin’ the lot of ya, I’m callin’ all y’all out.” Tala laughed lightly as she hugged the matriarch and then moved to hug the silver haired man.

Taking the young woman into his arm, “So glad you made it here safely. Bobby has been worried something fierce.”

“Well it’s to be expected since I am his girl.” Tala pecked the silver haired man’s cheek as the sound of some defeated sighs and a muttered “of fucking course” reached her ears.

“Party tonight, Clay?” Bobby asked as he wrapped an arm around Tala’s waist.

“Oh course. We have to celebrate our girl’s return.” The silver haired man, Clay, beamed as the club erupted into cheers and excitement.

“Hey Bobby?” Tala smiled as said man escorted her towards the club house.

“Yeah darlin?”

“Can I crash in your dorm? Just until I find a place of my own.” Tala inquired as she picked up her duffle bag off the back of her bike.

“You can crash in there as long as you need. I’ll talk to Clay and see bout getting you your own dorm room. If you want that is.”

“That would be great Bobby. Thank you.” Tala beamed as she hugged him. “Oh, what can I do to help with the party?”

“Not a thing darlin’.” The man with scars on his face smiled. “This is for ya. Ya just unpack an relax while we do all da work.”

“Thanks, but not gonna happen.” Tala informed the man before turning to Bobby. “I’ll set up the bar. Everything still the same?”

“Yeah. Unpack first though Hun.”

“Will do.” Tala laughed as she made her way inside to at least put her bag in Bobby’s dorm room; which she just put her bag by the door.

Hours had passed since Tala returned and a celebratory party was announced. Tons of people had turned out for it. Most of them Tala didn’t know. Typical SAMCRO party really. Looking around the clubhouse, Tala was flooded with memories. How she would hang out here while Bobby and the guys worked on cars or their bikes. It was how she learned to fix up bikes. Not to mention how to fight.

Slipping outside, Tala looked around the lot. Her eyes landing on the boxing ring to her left. She ran her hand on the mat of the ring remembering the first time she ever entered the ring.

#

“Where the hell is Tala?” Bobby had questioned in a tone that was a cross between pissed and scared shitless.

“Last I saw her; she was outside with the prospect and Chibs.” The eldest member of the club smiled.

“Thanks Piney.” Bobby clapped the back of his shoulder before making his way outside.

The sight that stood before him took his breath away. There in the ring stood a bloodied prospect and a red knuckled, slightly bruised and scraped up teenaged girl. Her long dark hair pulled up into a ponytail. The prospect was huffing and puffing in the far corner. Jax by his side trying to stop the bleeding from the gash above his left eye. The blood dripping out of his nose was finally starting to slow down. Chibs stood next to the girl smiling brightly at her. Telling her how good she was in the fight and how we had better stop before Bobby found out.

“Too late.” The girl gulped as she locked eyes with Bobby.

“What in the fuck is going on here?” Bobby roared, gaining the attention of all the club members on site.

“Bobby, it ain’t what it looks like.” Chibs tried to explain.

“I won.”

“Tala, get out of that god damn ring now.” Bobby was livid. “What were you thinking? You could have been hurt.” He snarled at Tala as she joined him.

“Nothing a shot won’t fix.” Tala retorted.

“Damn.” Whispered a dark-haired man from behind Bobby. “You did all that to the prospect doll?”

“Sure did. Chibs taught me.”

“Remind me not to get on your bad side, Tala.”

“Hey Tig, don’t get on my bad side.” Tala beamed as Bobby fussed over the small cut on her cheek.

#

Tala smiled to herself as the sound of footsteps approaching her pulled her back from her memories.

“You fight darlin?” The dark-haired man with blue eyes smiled.

“I’ve been known to hold my own.” Tala purred.

“Care to go around or two?”

“I wouldn’t want to mess up that pretty face of yours.”

“Oh, now ya gotta go around or two with me.”

“You would hit a woman?”

“Only if she liked it.”

“She would kick your ass Tig.” One of the youngest members smiled.

“She would not. Stay out of it, Juice.” Tig growled.

“I so would, Tig was it?”

“Let’s go sweetheart. I’ll show you what’s what.”

“Let’s go then.” Tala sneered with a dark smile as she hopped onto the edge of the ring. Smoothly sliding under the ropes and choosing a corner as her own. “Hey Gemma! Got a hair tie?” Tala called to the matriarch who was walking towards her with Clay by her side.

“Sure, thing baby.” Gemma smiled as she handed over a hair tie. “If Bobby catches you in that ring, he’ll lose his shit.” Gemma warned as Tala put her hair up into a ponytail.

“I ain’t a kid anymore Gem. He may be overprotective, but trust me, I can hold my own. Hell, the kid still remembers.” Tala smiled as she looked at Juice. “So, are we just duking this out or are we putting money on this thing?” Tala turned to Tig at this point as she pulled her black tank top off. Tala stood there in black jeans, a long black and short silver skull chain that connected to her wallet, black combat boots, and now a black and grey camo patterned sports bra.

“One-hundred on Tala to win.” Clay barked with a proud wide grin.

Tala laughed out loud at the look of shock and disbelief on Tig’s face. The man with the scars, who had been by the ring the whole time, hit the bell. Tig squared up to Tala as she just calmly watched him. They circled the ring a couple of times before Tig took the first swing. Missing due to her dropping low, Tala swung her leg in front of her, catching the legs of her opponent. Tig tumbled to the mat, landing on his back.

Jumping at the opportunity, Tala leapt onto him. Stradling his chest as she started wailing on him. Punch after punch to the face, Tig hardly had time to block the blows. Suddenly, Tig turned the tables and rolled; Tala now pinned under him. He had a triumphant smirk plastered on his face. That was until Tala did the one thing that threw everyone off. She rolled her hips up into Tig’s half hard cock. His breath catching in his throat and all his strength vanishing.

With another roll of her hips, Tala forced Tig off her and pinned him again. The cheers of the crowd that had gathered around them never registered with the two fighters as they staired into each other’s eyes. There was something in Tig’s eyes that told her, her secret weapon worked. Swiftly, she lent forward and planted a kiss to his lips. Then landed a strong punch to his face. In an instant Bobby called the fight to an end. He was seeing red.

“Again, with the fighting? First Juice now Tig?” Bobby growled.

“I won, didn’t I?” Tala retorted as she climbed off Tig.

“And the kiss?”

“Secret weapon against guys like him.” Tala smiled. “Dad, you gotta calm down before you give yourself a heart attack.”

“DAD?!” Most of the club gasped in shock.

“Did I stutter?”

“Little Tala Munson?” Tig gasped after sitting up. “Holy shit.” He sighed as he flopped back onto his back.

“Are you seriously telling me none of you assholes recognized my lil girl?” Bobby laughed.

“Hey Clay, how much did I just win?” Tala laughed as she climbed out of the ring with the help of the man with scars, and joined the president of the Sons of Anarchy.

“Five hundred.” Clay smiled proudly.

“Damn, anyone vote for Tig?”

“No, but don’t tell him that.” Gemma snickered from next to Clay.

“Poor Tigger.” Tala sighed. “Get’s his ass kicked by a girl and everyone bet against him.”

“At least he got a kiss for his efforts.” Juice smiled just to get slapped in the back of the head by Bobby.

“You ever kiss one of these low life’s again and we’ll be having our own match darlin.” Bobby warned Tala.

“Will a bribe change your mind?” Tala jokingly asked.

“Don’t go there.” Bobby warned as he started to head inside the club house.

“Oh, but I did.” Tala shouted after him with a laugh. Turning around, Tala made her way over to Tig. “Here Tigger, your cut.” Tala sweetly smiled as she handed him half of her earnings.

“They didn’t bet on me doll.” Tig sighed in defeat.

“No, they didn’t, but I did.”

The look of pure utter shock washed over his face. None of his brothers had bet on him to win. Not a single one of them, but this little girl did. Well, she wasn’t so little anymore. What was he thinking...this was his brother’s kid. He watched her grow up. Hell, he even helped teach her how to work on bikes for fuck’s sake. But that kiss and those hip rolls. He was just gonna have to try and stay away from her. Yeah, that wasn’t gonna happen and he knew it. After the look she gave him and that kiss, he knew he wasn’t gonna be able to stay away. Not to mention she knew exactly who he was and still got in the ring with him.

Tig got his senses together, shoved the cash into his pocket and headed inside the club house. As he walked in the music suddenly changed mid-song. Cranking his neck in the direction of the stereo he laid eyes on the back half of his target. Standing at the stereo was Tala, changing the song to a more erotic song. Tig’s eyes widened as he recognized the song. The smile on her face lit up the room as she moved to the bar. She took a quick glance around the club, most likely looking for her father’s location, then started to climb up onto the bar.

“What do ya think ya doin’ lass?” The man with the scars questioned her as he moved his beer off the bar.

“You know CPR?”

“Yeah, but that don’t answer my question.”

“Good, cause if dad sees what I’m about to do he will have a heart attack.” Tala smiled as she finished getting onto the bar top.

“Lass this ain’t a good idea around these guys.” The man with the scars tried to warn.

“Shhhhh, it’ll be fine Chibs. Just sit back and enjoy the show.”

By now the song was already in full swing. Standing to full height, Tala started to go through a series of erotic dance movies. Chibs was doing everything in his power to not get turned on by his brother’s daughter. His resolve was quickly wearing thin as he sat there and watched her dance up on the bar. Chibs didn’t even realize Tig took a seat next to him to watch the show Tala was so generous to provide. A lot of the other members of the club were tied up with croweaters or their old ladies. Both Chibs and Tig prayed to whatever god there was that Bobby was tied up for the rest of the night.

As the song ended, Tala giggled at the look on both Chibs’ and Tig’s faces. They were both memorized by her. Nothing new really when it came to the opposite sex. Whenever she danced, whether it be with a group of friends or by herself, men would always watch her with that same look. The look of amazement and lust. The fact that these two had that look just made her giggle.

She would never admit it out loud but she had always had a thing for both of the sons. The Scot was always such a sweet and gentlemanly type towards her. Tig on the other hand, while always being respectful, always flirted with her. She knew his reputation was a bad one. A dark one. It sparked something in her and in all honesty, while she was away, she a realized she had a dark side that might have been inspired by the blue-eyed man. Hopping off the bar, she took a seat on a stool next to Chibs.

“Enjoy the show boys?” Tala teased as she leaned over the bar to grab a bottle of whiskey.

“Tala, lass, that was amazing but-“

“If your dad was to find out you were dancing for us he would-“

“Have a heart attack? Yeah, I know. Hence why I asked if Chibs knew CPR.” Tala chuckled. “How bout we change things up a bit? I promise I won’t give dad a heart attack.”

“What you have in mind doll?” Tig questioned as he too reached over the bar, grabbing glasses.

“Drinking game.”

“That could be dangerous, lass.” Chibs sighed as he slid one of the three shot glasses Tig grabbed to Tala.

“I’m in.” Tig smirked.

Sighing, knowing that this wasn’t the best idea, Chibs surrendered to some of his darker thoughts. “What’s the game?”

“I’ll let you guys choose. Never have I ever or Truth or Dare?” Tala purred as she poured shots for the three of them. “We were so close before I left. Now that I’m back lets get to know each other again.”

“Both are dangerous baby.” Tig smiled wickedly as he picked up his glass and moved his stool to the other side of Tala.

“Oh, I know.” The smirk that played at Tala’s lips was just as wicked if not more so than Tig’s. “That’s why I’m leaving the choice up to you two fine gents.”

“Never hav’ I ever sucked a guy’s cock.” Chibs said.

Both Tig and Tala sighed before taking their shots. “Seriously?” Tala asked shocked as she refilled both hers and Tig’s shots.

“You gotta do what you gotta do to survive in prison.” Tig shrugged.

“Oh you liked it didn’t you?” Tala teased the man. “Never have I ever…been tied up to a vertical surface and fucked senseless.” Tig took the shot after a few moments. “Fuck you are twisted aren’t ya?”

“Shut up, she was hot as fuck and knew things.” Tig snapped.

Chibs and Tala shared a laugh as Tig’s shot glass was refilled. The game went on for about an hour or so. Tig being the drunkest out of the three. Tala close behind and Chibs seemed to still be sober. After a few more rounds, a croweater finally made her way to the three. More specifically over to Tig. In his drunken stupor, he eagerly went with her to his dorm room, leaving Chibs and Tala alone.

“Hey Chibs?”

“Yeah lovey?”

“Truth or dare?” Tala slurred slightly as she rested her head in her hand, elbow propped on the bar top.

“Truth.”

“You got the hots for someone?”

Chibs barked out a drunken laugh, “Ya could say dat.”

Sitting up a little straighter, “now ya gotta tell me.”

“That ain’t how ya play the game lass.”

“Oh fine. Go then.” Tala pouted.

“Truth or dare love.”

“Dare me.” Tala drunkenly giggled.

Chibs took a moment to think things over. However, with the state he was in, whether he looked it or not, he was drunk and wasn’t thinking clearly. The only thing going through his mind was the beautiful lass in font of him. The one that had showed up Tig in the ring. The one that had danced on the bar right in front of him. The one that had been flirting with him and Tig all night. “Talk dirty to me.”

“Ya want me to talk dirty to ya Chibs?”

“That’s what I said lass.”

“Alright then.” Tala gulped down her shot and stood up just to sit back down on Chibs’ lap, facing him. One hand resting on his half hard cock. Lightly palming it through his jeans. She leaned into him; her breasts pressed against his chest. Lips ghosting his ear as she seductively whispered, “I could pull it out right now and no one would notice. I could drop to my knees, take ya into my warm, wet mouth, and no one would care.”

Tala took his ear between her teeth and lightly moaned. “Or I could just have you slip inside, squeeze you tight with my pussy.” The groan that left Chibs’ throat stirred you on. “Make you harder than you’ve been in a long-time baby. Keep squeezing around you until you’re trembling and begging me to let you cum deep inside of my tight, wet, pussy. However, you don’t dare out of fear of alerting the whole club due to your loud moans. Fuck, I can’t wait to have you cum in me, filling me to the brim.”

Chibs couldn’t take it anymore, “Let me take ya ta bed.”

“I’m not tired.” Tala whined thinking he was just trying to be a gentleman.

“No lass, let me take ya to bed.”

What he was suggesting had finally registered with her. Smiling she took his hand and stood. With a head nod, Tala led Chibs towards the dorms. They quickly made their way down the hall and into Chibs’ dorm room.

#

“If you don’t stop lass, you’ll have a repeat of last night.” Chibs whispered against Tala’s ear. “I know ya awake love. Ya been wigglin’ ya ass against my cock for the past five minutes.” He purred as he started kissing down her neck and onto her shoulder.

“No clue what yer talkin’ bout. I’m sweet an innocent.” Tala smirked with her eyes still closed as she pushed her ass against his hard cock again.

Groaning, which sounded more like a growl, “Ya think so lass?” He gripped her waist a bit tighter than she was anticipating as he started kneading at the breast.

Arousal pooled in their cores as he continued his actions. Tala tried to keep her neutral “I’m sleeping” face, but her focus was quickly fading. She wanted to tease him like he had done to her since she could remember. Tala was damn sure she wasn’t going to let him continue to tease her. It was finally her turn to tease him.

“This is a dangerous game ya playin.” Chibs warned as a smirk crept onto Tala’s face.

“Don’t I know it? Been playing dangerously all night.” Tala slyly purred as she shoved her ass against his cock once again.

That’s when he lost it. Within seconds, Chibs was on top of Tala. His legs on either side of hers, his hand pinning both of hers above her head. The wetness pooling between her legs was beginning to seep out onto her thighs. Tala knew she wanted to tease him like he had been teasing her but all she wanted right now was for him to fuck her like he had last night.

“Ya ain’t so tough now are ya darlin?” He seductively whispered as he lowered his mouth to hers; a short yet passionate kiss. Feather light kisses from her jaw, down to her neck, to the soft patch of skin at the junction between her shoulder and her neck. There he bit down, surely leaving a mark for the whole club to see.

Suddenly there was a solid knock on the door. The two lovers jumping at the sound and then locking worried eyes. Chibs called out to the person on the other side of the door. The voice that came back was the one voice he really didn’t want to hear. Neither of them did really.

“Chibs have you seen Tala?” Bobby questioned through the door.

“Nah. Think she was sleepin’ on the couch when I came to bed.” Chibs lied as she smiled down at Tala.

“She probably went into town or something. If you see her tell her I’m looking for her.”

“Aye. Will do Bobby.” Chibs sighed as he rested his head on her shoulder. “Ya better sneak off and change. If yer da sees ya comin from my room he’ll probably castrate me.”

“You regretting what we did chibs?” Tala questioned as she moved to sit up.

“No darlin’ just worried bout yer da is all.”

“Good. Cause I wouldn’t mind a repeat performance.” Tala smirked before kissing Chibs.

She quickly got dressed and then vanished from his room. Sneaking down the hall to Bobby’s dorm. Thanking her lucky stars that he wasn’t in the clubhouse, she quickly changed into a red crop top. She decided that since her pants weren’t dirty she would just wear them again. Pulling out her make-up kit, she checked the love bite in the bathroom mirror. Clear as day was a purple mark where Chibs had bit her. Silently cursing him, she set about hiding it with her make up.