#Gwen flies too close to the sun

[anouchard]

PSA: @jonnywaistcoat just threatened to kill Gwen off because I kept punning in the @macguffinandco stream, so if Gwen just ... disappears, please know that I am sorry, I love her, I have only myself to blame, and I went down laughing.

[the-kr8tor]

Sailing Close to the Wind

Pairing: Pirate! Hobie Brown x fem! Reader

Word count: 8.2k

Tags: use of Y/N sparsely, no specific physical description of the reader (except for her clothing), CW food mention, CW violence, TW injury.

Between the Devil and the Sea Masterlist

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CHAPTER 5 >>> CHAPTER 6

Trousers, oh you'd love to kiss the person who invented trousers. You can't climb a mast with heavy cotton skirts especially without anyone below getting a full look at what's under it. Not to mention how comfortable it is, granted it's technically not your trousers, it's a bit big on the waist so you have to use a rope and some type of knot that James taught you. The cotton shirt and lambskin vest makes you look like an honest to god pirate, you fit right in, if only you could get up on the perch without falling.

The wind is breezing by you as you find leverage with your foot on the iron footholds, your hands are clammy, eyes strained against the sun and wind. The height thrills you, reminding you of the time when you used to jump all-over roofs to escape coppers.

“Hurry up, gorgeous! I'm bleeding up here!” Yuri screams from the top, showing you her so-called injury on her palm. It's bleeding, yes but it definitely does not need any stitching.

You swear she's messing with you. Training you perhaps? But it wouldn't matter as you won't stay on the revenge for too long. According to Miles, land is close, a couple of days at most. You secretly hope it's more than two, you're liking your stay on Hobie's ship, dare you say you're quite fond of having the crew around. Minus all the rival pirates and navy ships attacking the revenge, maybe you'll love it more here if those events don't happen on a daily basis.

There's a sense of security on the ship or maybe you're just beginning to get used to the routine and you just don't want the routine to get derailed by leaving the ship.

Even with all the dangers of staying on a pirate ship, you'd like to stay a few more days on it.

Your mind flies back during the crew meeting a week ago while you're slowly making your way up towards the crow’s nest. You can still feel everyone's eyes on you but you've only got your eyes clocked on to Hobie's intense look, he's determined, lips curling into a smirk as he says your name in front of the crew.

“Lastly, we're gonna need scuttlebutt, she's the only person not known to the navy in the colony.” Hobie's voice tells the crew but his gaze stays on you.

“She'll be our distraction then?” Ned asks.

You suddenly feel sweaty in front of everyone's eyes.

“Aye, we've already discussed her part. She knows what she's gonna do.” He stares at you intently, addressing you only. “After that you can finally get back on land.” You nod, slowly. Hobie finally looks away from you, speaking to the crew.

“Everyone else just needs to follow her lead. This isn't your first heist, you all know how to work with each other, keep up with the plan and we'll get the documents we need.”

“Remember, distraction,” Gwen glances at you briefly, “no guns inside, we get in the governor's office, get the plans, we get in and we get out quick.” Gwen speaks up from Hobie's right, her tone is serious, the low lamps swaying in the ship's movement makes shadows dance on her face.

“After that a round in the tavern, right?!” Two-fingers shout from the corner, most of the crew cheers with him.

“If we do everything right.” To everyone's dismay, Hobie corrects the cheering crew.

Yuri faces Hobie with a stern look. “Then after that we get the bastard, we get our bloody revenge, and then we're done.” you feel the tension filling the cramped space. “We go back to what we used to do.” Hobie observes her quietly, “The sea is calling and we better fucking answer, am I right cap'n?”

Hobie inhales, you could only get a glimpse of his anger flash across his face. “Then we answer the call”

The sudden rhythmic stomping from the crew makes you jump, Pavitr turns to you, whispering close. “So you've already discussed it with the captain, huh?” he wiggles his brows.

“Really, Pav?”

He continues to wiggle his eyebrows that are weirdly flexible. “Is that all you've discussed? Orrrr” You roll your eyes.

“Pav?”

“Yeah?”

“Go jump overboard”

“If that will get you to stay then I will jump overboard.” He happily says, skipping away from you.

“Wait what—?”

Yuri reaches down, flexing her ringed fingers for you. “C’mon landlubber, I'll help you up before the wind takes you.” her voice brings you back to reality.

You take her hand, “Thanks, how did I do?”

“You climb like my old hamster. Very cute but not very fast.” Heaving you up, you finally reach the bird's nest.

The circular space is filled with random stuff hanging from the banisters. A sextant hangs on a ribbon on your right, an old telescope swings in the wind, hitting your shin. The basket of yarn sits by your feet, a pair of knitting needles lay next to it.

“Thanks?” you look around and the view takes your breath away, the sun shines brightly painting the open water in watercolor light. There's nothing but blue as far as your eyes could see, you've never felt tinier in your entire life.

Waves heading in different directions, seagulls circling above the ship, providing a chorus of unending squawking.

“You're welcome, pretty.” She sits down on a tiny stool, palm up. “Before I bleed out.”

You chuckle. “You're not gonna bleed out,” taking a bandage and ointment from your handy dandy trouser pocket, you squat in front of Yuri. “It's just a scratch, and here I thought pirates are all tough.”

“Am I a pirate? Haven't felt like it recently.”

You look up at her, pausing from treating her wound. “What do you mean by that? Of course you're a pirate.”

“You look like a pirate too, Y/N, but logically speaking, you're not one of us.”

“Touché” you continue to bandage her hand, there's a sudden weight in your chest. “And here I thought you're not a pirate?” You throw back her own words.

She laughs, the sound akin to tiny bells twinkling. “Oh I'm gonna miss you and your wit.”

You smile genuinely, “and my medical prowess too?”

“That and more, doc.”

“Yuri, can I ask you a question before I inevitably leave?”

She stretches her hand, trying out the bandages. “Finally!” You jump slightly. “And here I thought you would pass asking me all your incessant questions.”

“Am I that annoying?”

“Oh no you're not, don't worry, darling. We're just not used to having new comers, the last time we had one was a while ago. And that was Danny, bleh.”

“Great, and here I thought everyone hates it when I ask questions.”

“They do,” you blink, “but if they ever complain they get a stare down from Gwen so they let you be curious.”

You bite back a laugh.

Yuri crosses a leg over the other. “So what is your question? I'm dying to know.”

You clear your throat. “During the meeting–?”

“Ah that!” She leans on the railing, shoulders relaxed, face facing the sun as it bathes her in sunlight. “The whole revenge thing has put a stop to our usual…” Yuri thinks of an appropriate word. “Adventures, that's why I just want it done and over with. Three years chasing the king's flame is too long, don't you think?”

“The king's flame?” You try to recall his real name that you've read a few times in the newspaper. “Captain Mathias something something.”

“Oh he's something alright, got our captain's knickers in a bunch for three straight boring years.” She pauses to look at you through her eyelashes. “I hate the wanker as much as the crew but my god I just want to bring him down as soon as possible.”

Sighing, she squeezes the bridge of her nose. “The navy attack was a blessing in disguise I suppose, if not for the lieutenant singing we wouldn't get the information about his little travel directory.”

You nod. “You just want to go back to pirating, I get it now.”

She hums. “That's why I like you so much”

You look away embarrassed, clearing your throat, you continue. “About the whole revenge thing? Everyone dances around it every time I ask and—”

“Maybe you'll find out if you stay long enough.” She smiles, a genuine one without a hint of flirting. “We need you y’know.”

“I know but I've got my own path to follow.”

“Screw following your path!” She waves you away, clicking her tongue. You frown at her. “I know you're starting to like it here. Look, I'm not opposed to you staying, I haven't seen this crew this healthy in a loooong while. Not to mention, Hobie bounced back real quick after all the attacks. Morale is at an all time high.”

“Only because he had less to worry about, like the crew dying of infection and disease.” you scoff.

“No, it's the opposite, he has more to worry about.”

You quirk a brow questioningly.

“You're asking the wrong questions, doc.”

“And what questions should I ask then?”

“Why did the hellion flee? They clearly had us, they just had to sail to us, back up the smaller ship but they didn't, they stayed behind, watching.”

You blink slowly, contemplating. “This didn't come up during the meeting. Have you told Hobie?”

“Of course I have and he reacts the same way every time I express my concerns about his revenge plan.” She shakes her head. “Fuckin’ indifferent.”

“I can tell him, maybe he'll listen.”

Yuri gives you a look, a neat eyebrow raised, lips straight. “Please, he might actually throw you overboard this time. We've tried that, love, trust me nothing's holding him back. He'll only stop once he gets his hands on the captain and I don't think even death itself will stop him either.”

“What did the navy do to him to warrant that?”

“Y’know what,” she stands up, stretching her back. “Go back down to the deck, Hobie's been staring at us for a while and I think his iris is burned from staring too close to the sun for too long.”

Sure enough, you look down to see Hobie knocking on the wooden mast, the sound reverberates upwards. He looks tinier from up where you are.

“Come down here and make yourself useful!” his hands are cupped around his mouth, yelling out.

Staring back at Yuri, she busies herself with her knitting, crafting a dark blue scarf. She waves you off wordlessly, eyes trained on her craft.

You climb down carefully, making sure your foot has leverage and your hands properly holding onto the steel bars.

Your mind filters through more questions, why would the crew not just answer you directly? Why does everyone compare you to the mysterious MJ? What is up with Hobie and the navy—?

A strong gust of wind suddenly blows past. With your hands slipping off the metal, feet unhooking from the foothold, you fall. Barely letting out a sound, you close your eyes, bracing for impact.

But you don't land on the floor with a harsh splat, instead you feel strong arms enveloping you, a hand gripping onto your thighs tightly, fingers spread across your shoulder, holding and tender on your skin.

“Fuckin' hell!” You hear someone yell.

Cracking an eye open, you see Hobie's furrowed brows, chest heaving. After seeing you alright, his face morphs into the most smug look you've ever seen. His lips curling into a smirk, eyes crinkling in the corners, dimples in full display. With his eyes full of wordless teasing, he opens his mouth with confidence.

“Got you fallin’ for me now, hmm?” The sun shines behind him, giving him a heavenly halo above his head. You swear you want to punch it off his face.

Shoving yourself off his arms, he drops you unceremoniously, you land on your behind with an ‘oomph’. Hobie looks down at you with a growing smile, hands tucked in his pants, his casual shirt dances with the wind, giving you a full show of his exposed chest. You sneer at him, wanting to tug the strings on his shirt to close it and maybe strangle him with it.

“A thank you would be great” He snickers, “saved your life a few times now. We should have a board here that tallies it all down.”

You stand up, pretending to dust yourself off but in truth, your tailbone hurts. “I fell from six feet, I would've survived, thank you very much.”

“You are very welcome, scuttlebutt” you can't believe it but he still manages to irk you.

Sucking in your teeth, you exhale, letting out your frustrations through it lest you get thrown overboard by the captain himself.

“What do you want, Hobie?”

“It's captain to you.”

“Captain” you say with gritted teeth, eyes searing holes into his shirt.

“That's better, I need help with tying the sail down. The others are unfortunately busy”

You raise an eyebrow, “why don't you do it yourself?”

“The wind’s too strong, I need someone to hold the ropes.” Hobie points at the large flapping ropes tied around the main mast, it could take someone's eye out with how wild it's moving around.

“Fine”

—

You're practically hugging the entire mast, making sure the numerous ropes stay close to the wood, the hemp ropes slap you across the face while another gust of sea wind passes through you, fluttering your lashes. You're glad that you're wearing trousers instead of the usual long skirt.

Hobie wrangles the wild cords. You can't see him but based on all the groaning and frustrated grunts, the ropes seem to be winning.

“Alright, got this one tied—fuck!” You hear a slapping sound against cloth. Silently chuckling, you'd give anything to have seen that just now.

“Hand me the next one!” He yells atop the rushing wind. You blindly take a single rope, handing it to Hobie's side.

Waves crash on the side of the ship, rocking you back and forth. Good thing you're already holding on to something strong.

He grabs it, his hands grazing your palms. It's warm, warmer than you thought it would be, you feel his calluses and all the history around it.

This continues on until you're only holding onto one rope, you've practically memorized every indent and lines on his hands and palms. Hobie ties the last rope on the steel hooks, the muscles in his arms doing all the work, sweat drips on his chest, following it with your eyes. it's like seeing a carriage crash, you can't look away.

“Fuckin' hell” you fling your eyes away when you hear his tired voice, looking at anything else other than him.

You're glad no one's looking your way.

The wind whips your warm cheeks, incredibly thankful to mother nature, you look back at Hobie, avoiding his sweat covered chest.

“Last one, scuttlebutt.” He flexes his hand towards you, smiling brighter than the searing sun. Why was he so happy when he was attacked by hemp cables a few minutes ago?

Before you could give it to him, Hobie had a better idea. “Why don't you do this one? Learn how to properly tie a knot.”

“James already taught me”

He beams, “that's good then, go do it.” Moving aside, Hobie gives you ample space to tie the cord.

You begin to twist it around the hook, looping it around itself. Hobie sighs behind you, looking over your shoulder, he has his hands on his hips.

“Continue, let me see what he taught you, yeah?”

Going back to your knot, you recall James’ instructions, over and under, twist it around then tie it together. You're done, looking behind you, Hobie grins, nodding.

“Adequate.”

The pride in your chest dissipates. “Really?” You scoff out.

“Good, but not enough, here.” He walks towards you, standing so close to you that your elbows kiss his.

You smell sea salt and the distinctive wound ointment.

Hobie unties the last knot, “focus here,” he tethers it differently, practiced hands gliding along the rope. “Got it?”

“Y-yeah.”

He unties it again, handing it back to you. “Let me see then.”

You side eye him. “I saw it.”

“Prove it then” he smirks, leaning sideways on the mast, arms crossed on his chest.

You bind it together like he did, hands suddenly clammy, face full of concentration. “There?”

“Not quite. Let me?” He closes the small distance, hands gesturing towards the rope, you nod thinking he's about to show it to you again. Instead he takes your hands in his. Careful and gentle like a flower petal kissing your hands.

Hobie uses your own hands to tether the rope around the steel, your mind has never clouded this much but you're determined to listen this time or he might not leave your hands alone.

“D’you have it, scuttlebutt?”

You clear your throat before speaking. “Y-yeah”

He unknots it once again so you could do it yourself. Holding the rope makes you sweat more as his eyes observe you. You follow through, finally doing it perfectly, it's a bit wonky, leaning to the side but at least it's secure.

Hobie chuckles, clasping your shoulder briefly, not a second more. “Good job.”

You blink, “thanks”

He walks away, leaving you on the spot.

—

The revenge drops anchor further away than the main docks. You've arrived a day earlier than you thought. With your small bag of belongings, you grip it tightly in your hand. You haven't been this further south in your entire life. The air is humid and warm, the trees more scarce.

The anchor clinks against the chains, with one strong push of the large wheel by Finn, the metal comes tumbling down to the depths with a splash.

A ramp is brought down to the side of the ship, it bangs loudly on the asphalt. The crew rolls down barrels upon crates of things down as you watch on with a clenched jaw.

“You'll do great.” Gwen makes you jump in place, she looks at you apologetically. “Don't be nervous, I know you won't fuck up.”

“Thanks?”

She slaps your back, “No problem.”

“Ow” you rub at the small of your back.

One by one they walk off the ship, stretching their arms, some hoot and holler. The late afternoon sun doesn't help with your nervous sweats as you carefully make your way down the ramp.

Finally standing on solid ground, you wobble a bit on your feet, too used to the rhythmic rocking of the ship.

Hobie jumps off the ramp following after you, his boots thud against the ground, heavy leather coat scraping by his shoes. His usual hair is tied in a ponytail hidden under a tricorn hat.

“Is this supposed to be your disguise?” You question him.

He whirls around, smiling almost immediately. “You'll be surprised at how many people don't recognize me in this.”

“Sure–” A crowd of children saunters over to the crew. Your eyes widen at the sight, their faces unafraid, giggling amongst themselves. “Uhh?” You point.

Hobie twists around, bringing your hand down for you. “Calm down, they can smell fear.”

“W-what?” You hide behind Hobie's large coat.

“You're all a sight for sore eyes, eh?!” Hobie bends at the knees while the children greet him with smiles and high fives. Pav and the rest of the crew join in, laughing while some happily chat with them.

“Open the crates,” Hobie calls above the chatter. “Give them the supplies.” He holds a child by his feet, swinging him while more children gather around him, calling for Hobie to swing them around too.

You watch quietly as the crew gives the gaggle of children some food, blankets and coins.

“How's your mum?” You hear Hobie ask a brown haired child. She whispers to him timidly. “Yeah? That's good, give her this bag, tell her it's for medicine.” Hobie hands her a clinking bag, the girl nods, smiling at Hobie.

Your heart warms at the sight, Finn gives the children piggy back rides as he gives them bread that you helped bake. Gwen talks quietly with a silver haired boy, Miles fights off a handful of children as they poke his pockets for coins. Pavitr’s handing each child a fleece blanket, laughing as he covers their heads with it.

You can't believe your own eyes.

A brown eyed girl tugs at your jacket. Looking down, you smile politely at her. Kneeling down to her height, she gives you her best puppy dog eyes.

“I know you're good but give it back, please?” You say while you offer her your open hand.

Her facade breaks, rolling her eyes. “Fine.” she hands you back your coin pouch.

“Need more practice,” you chuckle, standing to your full height.

“Ugh, I know!” She skips off, heading towards Ned.

“That's Estelle, quite a pickpocket huh?” Hobie appears next to you, a couple of children clinging on to each of his legs.

“Yeah, caught her with my coins though.”

“She needs more practice”

You laugh, “that's exactly what I told her.”

Hobie smiles, there's a comfortable silence between you. Just watching everyone interact with the children, more people arrive on the dock, both children and adults alike. They smile and wave. Surprisingly, Hobie waves back with a bigger smile. The children on his legs run off to what looks like their parents. Your smile falters.

Something pokes your side, you look down, finding a book poking you.

“What's this?” you ask, taking the book from Hobie.

“Farewell gift, I figured I won't have the time to give it to you after we take the papers”

Reading the title, you giggle, a smile coming back to your lips.

“‘How to conquer your fears volume five: Learn how to swim by Sir Riordan of Canterbury’ of course it's this book. I can't believe it took him five volumes to write this one.”

“Thought you might need it on your adventures.” He turns to you fully, eyes roaming around your face.

You're about to thank him, despite everything that happened, he let you stay, if it was any other pirate ship you'd be dead. Before you could say your piece, Hobie holds out his hand for you to shake.

“Good luck, Scuttlebutt. I can't say you were a pleasure on board but I'm glad you're not navy” you take his hand, shaking it, he tugs you closer, whispering in your ear, his breath fanning across your cheek. Sea salt and leather captures your senses.

“I better see you later or I'll—’’

“Or you'll hunt me down, I know, follow the plan. I won't let them down.” You lean away, cheeks warm, hand still holding his. “I promise.”

His grey eyes swirl, smiling at you. “Good, you're learning.”

“Surviving” nodding, you don't back down from his stare. “I'm just surviving.” you clasp his hand tighter like a hidden threat before you let go.

—

A shot rings out. You scream bloody murder before running frantically out the dim alleyway, sprinting towards the guards guarding the manor. Your barebones shoes clack on the rocks, feeling the jagged edges through your soles, you keep running, calling for help. Frantic shadows dance around your peripheral, footsteps as quiet as the night.

Reaching the silver gates, you bang on the metal. “Guards!” You screech, a couple of young guards sprint towards you, muskets raised in your direction.

“Stop right there! This is private property!” One says, you can smell the ale on his mouth from where you're standing.

This will be easier than you thought. Hopefully.

You heave, playing the part of a damsel in distress. “It's my brother! He's been shot, please help him!” Taking the younger guard’s hands through the metal gate, you flutter your eyelashes. “Please.”

They look at eachother, muskets pointed away from you. You grip his gloved hand tighter for emphasis. Wordlessly, they converse, eyes flitting between you and the manor.

“Please I just need someone to carry him to the hospital.” You shakily take your coin pouch out, the contents clinking against each other. “I can pay,” your eyes water. “I can pay both of you.”

With a nod and a smirk from the older guard, they open the gate, promptly closing it behind them.

“Thank you! Oh thank you!” Leading them towards the alleyway, you speed walk back. “This way, hurry!”

They obediently follow you into the dark.

You step into the darkness, they look around the empty alleyway, “oi! Where's—?”

Yuri emerges from the darkness accompanied by Finn, their guns drawn pointing it right at the guards’ temple.

“Don't move,” Yuri says with a tilt of her head. “Or…you know what happens next.”

You look away before a metal hits flesh in a sickening thwack! They drop harshly on the ground, your cue to look back.

Finn drags the bodies further into the alleyway, away from any prying eyes. You step to the side, giving him space.

“Good job, have you ever thought of a career in theatre?” Yuri asks, sporting two new muskets strapped to her back.

You wipe your eyes free of unshed tears. “I'll think about it.”

“This is it then, landlubber? I really hope I see you again.” She holds your elbow, surprisingly, you don't flinch away.

You fondly smile at her, “Me too, Yuri but I think I'm still needed here.” Your trouser pocket clink as you tap it.

Meanwhile, Hobie and the trio sneak into the manor that's now left unguarded. They go around the large home, finding a servant's back door. Gwen jiggles the doorknob.

“It's locked.” She whispers, kneeling down, she takes a lockpick from her belt. Hobie and the others watch her back.

After numerous tries, the lock pick breaks. Gwen clicks her tongue, taking out another lockpick.

Seven lockpicks later, sweat dribbles on Gwen's neck, the door still sits locked. She looks at Hobie frustrated, brows knitted together.

“Hey!” You whisper shout. All four of them look at you, eyes wide, eyebrows raised. Taking out the ring of keys, you show it to them with a large grin.

Hobie jogs over to you quietly, the full moon watches his lips slowly curve into a smile. “How'd you—?”

“Pickpocketed it from the guard.” You smile back, “that's a new lock.” You gesture with your chin, whispering your words. “The usual lockpicks won't work on it. Here” giving the keys to Hobie through the gate, his hand linger on yours as he looks at you with shining eyes. “What?”

“You–” he chuckles. “You know how to pickpocket?”

“What? Like it's hard?” You joke, earning a deep laugh from Hobie.

“How do you even know about the locks?”

“Look who's asking the questions now,” you smirk. “I'm full of surprises I guess.”

After a beat, he stares into your eyes. “Stay with us”

Your heart skips a beat. “What?”

“I know you heard me, scuttlebutt.”

“I–” you consider it, but what would happen if you stayed? What would happen if you join and they still leave you down the road? It's better to go now and save yourself from the heartache.

“I can't” you let his hand go. “I have to go. Good luck, Hobie”

Walking away, you didn't miss how his smile falters.

It's better this way.

—

The smell of the musty tavern brings you back. A plate of ham and beans left almost untouched, it's not the same as Finn's. it tastes like tree bark compared to your meals on the ship. Huddled in a corner, you mindlessly read the book Hobie gave you, its pages pristine and well taken cared of.

You shut it closed, with your eyes growing heavy, you wonder where you're going to be sleeping tonight.

The doors bang open, a loud rambunctious group saunters in, yelling for drinks.

“First round’s on Gwen!” Someone shouts.

“I don't even drink, you fucker!” Gwen shouts back.

Wait, Gwen?

“Gwen?” You mumble.

Like fate, Gwen finds you amidst the crowd. Her eyes widen right before a smile replaces it.

Pavitr yells your name first, pointing at you like he hasn't seen you in years. Everyone follows his finger, the rest of them cheer, pushing patrons away to get to you. James shoves Danny out of the way, taking the closest seat next to you.

Ned grabs both of them by the hem of their shirts, “give her some space, fuckin' hell!”

You give him a smile as thanks, he nods once, mock saluting you.

Yuri guffaws loudly. “I knew it! We're meant to be together, eh?” She shakes your shoulder, planting a loud smooch on top of your head. You giggle, waving her away.

“Alright, let's all calm down.” You laugh loudly, “Mug, watch your stitches!”

“Sorry,” he murmurs.

Gwen sits next to you with a small smile while half of the group head on to the bar to order their alcohol.

“How'd it go?” You whisper to her, “where's Hobie?”

“Everything went well.” Her eyes darted all over the place. “Hobie went back to the ship to store the papers.”

“What's wrong?” You look around, trying to find what's gotten her nervous. “You alright?”

“Yeah, it's just—I don't know.”

“It was too easy.” Miles pipes up, handing Gwen a cup of something warm.

“That,” she nods as thanks to Miles, sighing. “He's right, it seemed too easy. We sneaked in, never making a sound.” She whispers closely. “We only saw three housekeepers in the entire manor and you know how these officials are.” you nod. “I'm just keeping an eye out for everyone, just in case.”

“That's why we chose this tavern, it's far from the manor.” Miles explains. “What are you doing here anyway? Aren't you supposed to be out and adventuring right now? Y’know ‘finding yourself’” he makes quotation marks with his fingers.

“I was just resting. Am I not allowed to rest?” You sarcastically say.

“Oh I'm not gonna miss you on board.” He sips from his cup.

“Sure, say how's that tea taste? Like shit right? I bet you're gonna miss the brew I always make for you” you ask with a teasing smile. Gwen chuckles next to you.

“You're horrible.” he says into his cup of swirling dark liquid. A ghost of a smile hiding behind the ceramic.

A bundled loaf of bread drops in front of you, almost shattering the plate of so-called ham and beans. Looking up, you see Finn nodding at you.

“Thank you, Finn.” You smile at him, he grunts in reply, heading towards the rest of the group.

Pav visibly sags into his chair, blowing his bangs out of his face.

Used to his attitude, you tilt your head, asking him. “What is it, Pav?”

“I'm tired,” he sighs. “And I'm gonna miss you.”

You feel heat behind your eyes. “I'll miss you too, Pav, and our late night talks.”

“You kept me awake,” you chortle. Pav tentatively reaches for your hand over the table, letting him in, you open your palm wordlessly. “I guess we didn't hit any rocks because of you chattering endlessly. So thank you.”

You smile, squeezing his hand once.

He drops his sadness, going back to his usual self. “Are you sure you can't stay? Come on! We've got…” he thinks for a second, finding the bread on the table he gestures towards it. “Bread!”

“A lot of places offer bread, Pav”

“Yeah, but they're not Finn's bread”

He's right, they're not Finn's, or Gwen's or Miles’ or Hobie's. They're not from the crew and nothing will ever be once you finally leave. Despite all of these, you smile, standing up with shaky legs.

“I have to go.” Your small voice echoes in their ears, they look at you with fond smiles. “Thank you, really.” You think about hugging them but you change your mind last minute, it's better this way, you say to yourself.

You wave goodbye, fighting yourself from looking back.

Exiting the tavern, the cold evening air blasts your cheeks, a tear escapes and you wipe it immediately.

“Y/N, wait!” Gwen runs after you. You stop in your tracks, looking over your shoulder with a sad smile.

You can't keep doing this, you need to leave, your mind tells you but your heart says otherwise.

“Here.” She hands you a hefty bag of coins, the pouch is pink with her name embroidered on it. “for your travels and as a thank you for helping with the crew.”

You shake your head, “I can't take this.” Pushing it back towards her. She gives you a stern look worthy of a first mate. “Gwen, I can't. Give it to the children, I don't want it.”

“You won't survive another day with what you have on you right now” before you could protest, she stuffs it into your bag. “You can pay me back when we meet again.”

You nod, “Alright, I'll pay you back. I promise”

“Good luck and I don't know if this might be helpful but we're heading north. If–if you want to come aboard again we'll be near the thousand islands. Waiting” the moonlight illuminates her sad eyes.

“Thank you, I'll think about it.” You turn around but you look back against better judgment. “Can you tell Hobie…just say thanks for me.”

“Will do Y/N.” Gwen smiles genuinely at you.

So you walk with no true destination. You roam around on your tired feet, waiting until something happens, you don't know what it could be and you're too fatigued to think right now.

A cat meows in the alley, followed by a chorus of soft mewls. Its bright green eyes blink slowly at you, an orange tubby and cream colored cat sidles up to the black cat. They meow simultaneously, getting your attention. Their noses probably got a whiff of the ham you've pocketed.

“Hungry?” You squat, taking the covered ham to give it to them. They take bites, sharing the meat with each other. “Yeah, I know the feeling.” sighing, you look at the end of the alley, your heart almost falls when you see the same engraving of a bird taking flight stamped on the side of a crate, followed by another and another.

“What the fuck.” You speed walk towards the docks, ankles hurting from all the running you've done. “Hey!” You yell at a worker who's currently loading the crates in a ship.

“Oi yourself” he turns around, hands on his hips.

You try to catch your breath, “what's that?” Pointing at the crate, the man looks at you like you've lost your mind.

“A fucking crate, love. You haven't seen a crate before?”

“No, I meant the design, the fucking sigil.”

“Ah, it's clearly a blue jay. look at its tail.” he gestures at the tail.

“That's— that's not what I was asking but thanks, I guess. I meant the sigil. What does it mean? And where is it going?” hope fills your chest.

“I dunno about the symbol, I just haul them in. As for where we're going, I'll tell you. For a price of course.” He smiles, showing his teeth with one gold fang.

“Fine.” You don't hesitate giving him a coin.

He chuckles, pocketing the money immediately. “Further north, near the capital.”

“The capital.” this is your chance so you take it. “How much? How much to board?”

He laughs at her face. “If only you were a man!” He eyes her up and down. “Clearly you're not.”

You scoff, glaring at the man. “You're fucking nasty.”

“Y/N?” The simple call of your name sends shivers down your spine.

Your heart stops beating for a second, you bolt it out of there without looking back at him. You know it's him, his booming voice yells after you, loud footsteps echoing in the night.

“Y/N!” Miguel yells.

His partner appears from an alleyway, you sprint past her without sparing her a glance.

“Whoa!” She yelps, almost falling on her back.

“It's her!” he screams, voice cracking from the sheer volume. “Lyla, it's Y/N!”

“Oh shit!”

You hear two sets of running footsteps behind you. There's no advantage for you this time, you don't know the city and its streets. It's only a matter of time before you walk into a dead end.

“Fuck!” With your aching knees, thighs burning, lungs gasping for air, you head towards the only sanctuary you can think of and where people can help defend you—The tavern.

You can feel him getting closer and closer to you, turning a corner, your ankles almost give out from the sudden turn. “No, no, no!” Limping slightly, you continue to run as fast as you can with a sprained ankle.

“Y/N, please!” His partner yells.

The familiar roof of the tavern peeks over all the houses, a beacon of hope for you. With a sudden tug on your arm, your body harshly takes an unwanted turn to the right. Strong yet familiar set of arms holds you, a calloused hand covers your mouth as you struggle to get out of the alcove.

“Calm down, it's me.” He whispers close to your ear.

You stop your squirming, looking up, Hobie's serious face looks at the opening of the alcove, eyebrows knitted together in anger.

Your back is squished on his chest, shaking hand holding his wrist. The dark alcove saves you as Miguel and Lyla run past.

Hobie takes his hand off your mouth, you heave, almost falling to your knees if not for him still holding on to you.

“Thank you.” You whisper like he could still hear you.

“Why is the former admiral comin' after you?” He turns you towards him in the cramped space, your knees banging on his legs, hips dangerously close to his.

“What? He's an admiral?” There's no way he's an admiral. You try to remember the day but it's been years, you don't recall him ever wearing a uniform.

“Yeah, he's—” Hobie shuts up, hearing voices from outside your little alcove.

It's him.

You look behind you and it’s a dead end. Craning your neck up, you have an idea.

“We need to climb up.” You quietly say, heart beating rapidly.

“Are you sure you can do it?” He looks at your swollen ankle.

You nod, “I don't have a choice.”

Hobie nods, lips tightly closed. “Alright. You go first, if you fall I'll catch you, again.” He doesn't waste an opportunity does he?

With your feet laying flat on the wall and your hands on the other side, back straight. You slowly make your way up. Hobie's close behind you, doing the same but managing his speed, slowing down for you.

Looking down, you almost fall as your ankle throbs.

Miguel's voice echoes out in the darkness, he's close.

“It's alright,” Hobie encourages you. “I'm right here, yeah? If you fall we'll run, even if I have to carry your arse out of here.”

Why couldn't your savior be Gwen?

With a roll of your eyes and a groan, you continue to climb up. Finally reaching the top, the moonlight greets you. Hobie helps you up by pushing you up by your feet, careful of your injury.

Laying down on the sodden roof. You roll over to the side to help him up by his hand, pulling with all your might.

Hobie climbs over the edge, laying down next to you, breathing heavily.

“I underestimated the height of that.” He says in between breaths.

“I underestimated how heavy you are.”

He pats his stomach. “This is pure muscle, trouble.” turning to face you, his piercings shine in the evening's light, smile across his lips like you're not hiding from someone.

“Full of Finn's stew more like.”

“I'm a growing boy, I need the sustenance.” he twists, looking below. “They're gone, I see them walking back towards the docks.”

You let yourself breathe again, head thumping on the roof. “Thank fuck.”

“Don't you mean thank me?” Hobie lays down next to you again, you groan in reply. “How's the ankle?”

“I think it's just sprained—” A twig snaps, you swear the roof caved in a bit. “What was that?”

“Shit, I think it's the—”

Crack!

The roof caves in, Hobie lunges for you mid air, holding on to you, hand guiding your head on his chest as he braces for impact.

You land on top of Hobie, he groans in pain, your eyes adjust at the candles littered around the frilly room.

“Shit! Are you bleeding? Please don't tell me you hit your head!” you frantically pat behind his head. Instead of warm ichor, you feel something soft.

You pull it out from behind his head without warning. He yelps when his head hits the carpeted floor.

Wincing, you apologize. “Sorry.” looking at the pillow in your hand, you're more confused than ever. More confusing than the sight of a crystal ball sitting in the middle of the table.

Roaming your eyes, you stop at a woman clad in furs and velvet, she stands frozen with her teacup in her hands.

“Uh, welcome to Nellie's?”

—

You're incredibly glad Nellie's nice, she even gave you ice for Hobie's back, ice! In this season! There's also ice on your swollen ankle, the cold seeping through your skin, giving you reprieve from the pain. You bet she's rolling in coins judging from all the generous ice she's given. Maybe you should learn how to be a fortune teller from her. You think about asking her if she needs an apprentice.

After dropping off almost half of Gwen's money to pay for the roof, you stare at it longingly, already missing its weight inside your bag.

She comes out of her kitchen, the beaded curtains flutter as she moves through it.

“Shoulders.” Hobie grumbles. He sits next to you, back hunched while you hold the ice on his back for him. “Y/N, move the bloody thing.”

“Right, you can say please, you know.” You slide the cloth covered ice up to his shoulders, he hisses when you hit his tender muscle. “Sorry, my fault.”

“Definitely your fault.” He quietly says with a pout.

“Oh don't be such a baby,” Nellie drops off a silver tray full of tea and crumpets. “I foresaw that you'll heal in no time.” she says with a smile.

Hobie raises a brow skeptically. You wordlessly communicate with him, telling him to shut it or she might call the coppers on you two. He sighs, rolling his eyes, taking a bite of a crumpet.

“So Nellie, you're a fortune teller huh? How exactly do you uh do that?” You ask, making conversation, careful of your words.

“I'm so glad you asked!” she giggles excitedly, pouring you and Hobie a cup each. Nellie drops a cube of sugar and milk in yours just like how you like it while Hobie gets three cubes. Wait.

Hobie beats you to it, “How'd you know I like my tea with three sugars?” He says with his mouth full.

Nellie smiles, tapping her temple. “I have the gift.” She sits down across from you, “although it's not always accurate, but I give it a” she sucks in her teeth, thinking. “Eighty percent chance of being right? My trusty crystal ball helps in filling the gaps.”

She gestures around the ball, making whooshing sounds.

You and Hobie share a look.

“Do you want a go?” She flicks her different colored eyes at you two. “I'll throw it in for free since you paid me already for the damages. I know I'm incredibly nice, no?”

You have nothing to lose, and you have to wait until Hobie recuperates. Said man eats his third crumpet.

“Sure, why not, right?” you chuckle nervously.

“Lower back.” Hobie instructs, you scoff before doing what he asked. He did save you again, that's the only reason why you do what he asks for.

“Fantastic! Let's start!” She claps her hands, the inside of the crystal ball swirls, pearlescent colors shining inside like water. “Oooh let's start off with you!” Nellie addresses you, you straighten up in your seat.

She roams her ringed hands around the ball. “I see that you're running from someone, M? I think?”

You look at Hobie in the corner of your eyes. He thickly swallows his crumpet. “Shoulders,” he says lowly. You move it up, annoyed.

“And for Mr. Hungry here,” she glances at Hobie. “Oh, I see the letter M too! You're more alike than I thought!”

Hobie stops eating, exchanging his crumpet for a cup of tea.

“Hmm, and a J? For…” she narrows her eyes, looking directly at the swirling colors. “The both of you, again. Huh?” Nellie chuckles, “that's— I've never seen that before, even from other couples.”

You swallow thickly, not bothering to correct her.

Taking your tea from the tray to calm your nerves.

She's dangerously accurate.

Her bright demeanor suddenly falls, her mismatched eyes empty and devoid of light. Her smile fades. “Something lurks in the water.” She says flatly.

“Alright, we should go.” Hobie stretches his back. “This is all bollocks, let's go–”

Nellie suddenly punches the table. Hobie sits back down, holding your wrists just in case he needs to run.

“I see the blazing sun and sand beneath your feet” She sharply turns towards you. “Don a white dress and you'll find what you're looking for.”

You take your wrist away from Hobie. “What do you mean?”

She ignores you, twisting suddenly towards Hobie. “I see blood and steel kissing your neck if you stay on the path. Answer her call and you'll be safe.”

Hobie looks at her with an unreadable face. Fists tightly closed. “Whose call?” She ignores him, blinking rapidly.

Nellie smiles back, the light in her eyes coming back. “Oh look at that! I see the same white dress and sun in yours!” She giddily says to a confused Hobie. “A beach wedding perhaps?” She giggles while you and Hobie are shaking in your seats.

Hobie has had enough, taking your wrist again, he stands up. “Thank you for the hospitality and for not screaming bloody murder but we have to go.”

“To plan the wedding?”

“No, to murder and pillage.” Hobie takes the ice from the floor. “Goodbye”

“Uh sorry about the roof!” You yell back. He tugs you outside.

“Wait, are you two pirates?” Nellie asks into the now empty room, scratching her head.

—

The sun is rising as you and Hobie sneak quietly out of town and into the secret dock where the revenge rests.

You can't help but exhale out your nerves once you reach the ship. Hobie's shoulders visibly relax, waving towards Gwen who's eyes widen when she sees you. Pavitr stands next to her, wiggling his eyebrows at you.

You shake your head rapidly, he gives you a thumbs up while Miles has the most disgusted look on his face.

Hobie turns around, “You comin’?”

You contemplate what happened today, your bones are aching and begging for sleep.

“I–I need to go.”

Hobie could only nod, walking away from you without looking back. “Lift the anchor” you hear him say from the ship.

The crew waves back at you, faces of different variety, some smiles, some could only look at you with sad eyes. Finn nods, a small smile on his lips. Gwen leaves, sparing you a glance. You think you hear Yuri yell ‘no, my wife!’ you chuckle to yourself in the empty dock.

You watch as the people's revenge sails further away, the anchor lifting back up slowly.

North. The word jumps back at you. They're heading north.

Without thinking, you run.

Your ankle screams for you to stop, but your grin says otherwise. You pray to every divine entity out there to help you reach the anchor in time and to not let you drown.

“Wait!” You yell. Everyone runs towards the edge of the ship, watching with wide eyes as you run the length of the wooden dock.

Pavitr cheers you on, yelling loudly. Everyone else follows his lead, hands rhythmically banging on wood, screams making you run faster.

Hobie beams from the ship. Tossing off his large coat and hat, he climbs to the side of the boat through its ropes, as close as he can get to you.

With an outstretched hand, he calls for you. “C’mon, trouble!”

With a running leap, your fingers graze his palms. You don't make it.

Hobie lets himself fall, holding your hand with both arms. The crew made themselves a rope to hold Hobie while he grips on to you tightly.

You laugh loudly, seeing the human chain, Gwen holds on to Hobie's waist, while Miles holds on to Gwen, Pav and the others begin to heave you all up to the boat.

With a jump, you reach up with your dangling arm to hold on tight to his shoulder.

Hobie beams down at you, “I hope you've read the book because these wankers might let us go for shits and giggles.”

“No I haven't,” you say above the wind, feet dangling several feet off the deep waters. “But I trust them. I know they've got me.”

The sun wakes up to loud cheering and smiles.

[paintbrushnebula]

I want Miles to be shown dealing with PTSD from Miguel's assault for the first third of Beyond's plot. Like even for a significant amount of time after he's been found by Gwen and the band, he's freaking out at everything. He stares at shadows, fearing that one of Miguel's loyal spiders could be lurking. He gets antsy when the gang insist on making a pit stop to rest or do something important (idk what the overall plot structure is gonna be like) because what if they get ambushed? He freaks out about going to any new location because he thinks they might be walking into a trap (or they're walking him into a trap). He'll outright refuse to be left behind himself alone for a moment once he's finally reached the point where he trusts his friends again. We just bear witness to Miles in this constant state of terror for the first third or so of the film, with so much to fear while not knowing what will happen to him in the end.

And he will be struggling to bottle up all this pent up stress and terror he's amassed in the past 24 hours with nowhere healthy to put it because he still doesn't know who he can trust and also because he's Miles and you know he's shoving down all his negative thought patterns and just how afraid and anxious he is for the sake of his end goal. We'll see Miles' will to never dwell on things go from being his best quality to his worst obstacle simply because he learns these life lessons a little too well for his own good. He's gonna just keep going until he flies too close to the sun and shrivels up and burns. And all his pent up anxiety is gonna come out eventually for sure, but I think in a very ugly way.

Like I want his PTSD to really affect things. For his anxiety to affect the progress of the mission and slow the team down sometimes or give the spider society the upper hand while they're hunting them down across dimensions (that seems to be the direction they're going in since Miguel's final line in ATSV is a command to send every spider out to hunt for Miles). Like if they actually come face to face with society members and have to fight, Miles will freeze up in terror and he'll have to be rescued or the enemies end up succeeding in causing problems because Miles couldn't stop them.

Or better yet, and here's the real cherry on top: what if his anxiety causes his powers to malfunction. Like they still work, but he completely loses control over them when he's experiencing these moments of intense panic. He's so scared that he's flickering in and out of invisibility and instead of venom striking on command, he's having these infrequent yet uncontrollable electric outbursts that vary in intensity, like he's having bioelectrical spasms fueled by the panic, and he can't even concentrate enough to direct the venom strikes at anyone in particular. So now like he's essentially defenseless against the Society and it'll be another big factor in him learning to trust Gwen and the Spider-Band again, because he'll have no choice but to rely on them for his survival.

[aeshxma]

Can I get some Wings AU or Werewolf Camp Camp au headcannons? Tysm!

Here's a mixture of both! Of course I won't do headcanons for most of the characters, since it'd be a long process, but I'll try to do as many as I can. Starting off with characters and what they'd have: Max: Wings, but slight hint of a werewolf (Maybe his mom or dad either being werewolf; the other having wings) David: Wings Gwen: Werewolf Nikki: Hybrid both wings and werewolf Neil: Wings Nerris: Werewolf Space Kid: I'd assume wings?? Ered: Wings Harrison: Wings Dolph: Werewolf Preston: Wings Nurf: Werewolf Now for the headcanons! Max - HATES when people touch his wings, would either swat them away or stretch his wings out and flap them so they'd stop. - His wings would be white, and he's insecure about them because wings are supposed to be your hair color, but instead of black wings, they're white. - Whenever he wants to get away from a camp activity, he'll fly away. It always ends up not working because David flies after him and gets him. - With his werewolf tendencies, he has a habit of biting. Usually biting David. (He also has sharp canines). - Max has long nails, they tend to grow fairly sharp. - When Max needs an escape outlet, he flies around the lake. Usually when the sun sets because that's the best view. - When Max is yelling/angry/arguing, his wings spread out.

David - David's wings are his hair color, and they're smaller than the usual adult wing size. He doesn't care about it because he can still fly, and that's all that matters to him. - He has a bunch of bite scars from when Max bites him. They can be found on David's arms or hands. Max's canines are so sharp sometimes when he bites too hard he injures David and that's how David gets his scars. - Whenever David loses a camper, he finds his wings useful because he could fly around and find where they are and fly them back to camp safely. - David has a habit of cleaning Max's wings every once in a while though Max doesn't like his wings being touched. - When David hugs someone, he wraps his wings around them as a way of protection or affection. - David has to clip Max's nails. (imagine the pain he goes through just for it).

Nikki - Nikki usually has to be locked away or tied up when it's a full moon since she's usually chaotic, and a chaotic werewolf isn't good on a full moon night. - If Nikki escapes, she usually hunts down her "prey" whether it being rabbits, or other close by animal and drops it off either at the counselors cabin door, or outside someones tent. - She has ears! They're brown and fluffy. She doesn't like them because they don't match well with her hair color. - On full moon nights, her tail comes out as well.. along with more scruffy fur! Her hands turn into paws, and she becomes a full werewolf - When in her werewolf state, her eyes turn a bit more yellow than usual. - Nikki has a wolf-like temper, she can't handle it since being somewhat wolf is in her DNA. - Like Max, she has sharp canines. She likes to chew up Max's bear Mr. Honeynuts, which is why his stuffed bear is somewhat torn up in some places. Neil - He only uses his wings when he has to. - They're smaller than Max's, around the size of David's. Max bullies him for it. - Neil prefers not to use his wings since he has a fear of heights, but if he's in danger and desperately needs to use his wings, he'll fly. - He experiments with his feathers. - Neil actually likes his wings being gently petted when in distress. Nerris - She wants wings, but is a werewolf like Nikki. - Nerris doesn't like being a werewolf; possibly hurting someone scares her. - Unlike Nikki being a chaotic werewolf, Nerris is actually more of a mellow werewolf. - She does tend to hunt small mice while in her werewolf state, not going any bigger than a mouse. I hope this satisfies you, I'm sorry there werent more headcanons for more characters, but like I promised, I did what I could.

On a side note, request's are still open. Feel free to request anything you'd like, I don't mind writing whatever. I do headcanons, oneshots, and related things like that!

[bruh--wtf]

A Lovely Secret

Masterlist

Part 11

Previous Next

Merlin x Reader

Warning: Parental Abuse.

Merlin and Arthur saw a large stone building that looked deteriorated in a clearing. Once entering through the back, the men follow the noise. They find themselves in the back of a room full of men. It looked as though they were feasting.

Arthur notices an older man and points him out to Merlin. He was getting up and leaving. The two men followed, finding themselves a little lost. The dark and quiet corridor felt eery.

"You must be hungry," they hear a man say. Merlin, being closer. Looks around the corner seeing a cell. With the beautiful girl sitting in it. He sees her glaring at the older man.

"I'm sure you have every intention of feeding me," you say sarcastically. He sits in the chair in your cell.

"If you tell me who he is," he says. You smirk and meet the man's eyes again.

"I'd rather die." He sighs, standing again.

"I thought you'd say that. You see a bit of movement behind him, and glance back to see Merlin peaking around the corner. He suddenly gets pulled back, and Arthur peaks out. Your eyes widen a fraction and you look at the man. "I truly thought you could help us. You really could be powerful."

You swallowed. If this man said anything and Arthur heard, you're dead either way.

"Then the joke's on you. You're blind to what is right infront of you," you say. He chuckles a little.

"You doubt yourself, young one." You shake your head. He lets out a breath, and leaves the cell, locking it and hooking the key on the adjacent wall. He gives you an almost sad look. "You'll get to hungry eventually. You'll tell me."

"Doubtful."

"Maybe you were right. Nobody will come for you. I'm sure you're starting to see that now." You clenched your jaw and swallowed. Knowing the two men you cared most about in the world were only a few feet away. He looks agitated, but walks out and away. You push yourself up as Arthur comes around the corner. He grabs the key while Merlin walks over to you.

"Are you alright?" He asks in a sort of whisper. You smiled a little and nodded. He smiled and Arthur pushed him back to unlock the door. He pulls you out and brings you into the hall.

"Ah, what a pity," the man says behind you. You turn back. He looks at Arthur. "Your highness." He bows his head with a slight smirk, then Arthur flies back, getting knocked out as he hits the wall. Merlin grabs your arm, pulling you behind him. The man raises an eyebrow at him, and his eyes shift to you for a moment. "Oh. Nice of you to join us... Emrys." You felt Merlin tense up against you.

"What do you want from me?" He asks.

"I want your loyalty! You and I could rule the world," he says. "You could have anything you wanted."

"I'd never be loyal to you," he says. You held onto his shirt from behind him. You were barely holding yourself up.

"Oh, rethink that, Emrys. Admit that you want it. You could be powerful. You could be with anyone you wanted. You could be happy," he says, glancing at you and smirking. Merlin paused, and you looked at him. You slid your hand down his arm, gripping his hand. He shifts a little, holding onto your hand as well.

A second later, the ceiling above you started to crumble. The man's eyes widen and he looks up.

"I am happy." The man looks at Merlin again in shock. You hear Arthur groan behind you and looked back. A piece of the ceiling fell on the man's leg, causing him to cry out. Merlin and you ran over to Arthur. Merlin helped him up, and the three of you got out of there as quickly as possible.

Once you had gotten back to the horses, you watched the building collapse. Arthur points at the building.

"What was that?!" He exclaims.

"Uh, well-"

"A support beam," you blurt out. They both look at you. "Merlin kicked a beam down, and the building started to collapse, as you noticed." You'd gotten used to making up lies.

Arthur looks at Merlin and raises an eyebrow. "You did?" Merlin nods after a second. Arthur nods, then turns to you. "Are you alright?" He asks. You smile a bit.

"A bit thirsty, but I'm fine," you admit. He nods and embraces you. You let out a breath and hug the man that had become like your brother. After a moment he releases you and goes to his horse to grab a canteen.

Merlin lightly touches your hand and you turn to him. You quickly embrace him, and he wraps his arms around you. He holds you close to him, almost like he's scared you'll disappear.

You feel his lips brush the top of your head. You however, left your face buried in his chest, your arms wrapped tightly around his torso.

You hadn't had much time with Merlin, however you were sure you both still felt the same. The only proof you needed was this moment.

You feel him release a breath, and rest his chin on top of your head. You could tell he had been holding his breath for a while, and he was happy to finally release it.

"You're never going riding alone again," he whispers. You laugh a little against his chest and nod.

"I promise," you say just as softly.

You hear Arthur's footsteps, coming back a bit slowly. You, reluctantly, pull away from Merlin. When Arthur hands you the canteen you smile gratefully, and gladly take a sip.

"When's the last time they gave you water?" Merlin asks. You shrug.

"I don't know. Maybe a day or two," you admit.

"I suppose you haven't eaten either, then?" Arthur asks. You shake your head.

"Then, lets get back to the palace. I'm sure Morgana will make my father have a feast prepared," he says. You laugh a little and nod.

"She probably will." He smiles and nods at Merlin.

"Ride with Merlin, we should get going." You and Merlin approach his horse, and he helps you up. He hops on after you and you wrap your arms around him again.

You rested your head on his back, your head facing Arthur. He glanced at you before they both started off.

You soon drift to sleep, feeling peacfully safe for the first time in days.

You wake up a few hours later when the sun was rising. You shift a little, lifting your chin onto Merlin's shoulder. He glances at you with a smile.

"We should be home soon," Arthur says, noticing you'd woken up. You smile a bit at the thought of seeing Gwen and Morgana.

"Thank you," you say. Arthur waves you off, and rides a little ahead of you and Merlin. "Thank you," you whisper only for Merlin.

He turns his head and kisses your temple softly, and quickly.

"You didn't believe him, did you? Did you think I wouldn't come?" He asks. You shake your head.

"I hoped you wouldn't. I didn't want anyone to get hurt, Merlin." He shakes his head.

"Arthur's head is thick enough, he's fine," he says. You chuckle softly, tilting your head more towards his neck.

"I saw you Merlin. You considered his offer," you say. He takes a second before responding.

"I know. I shouldn't have. But, I was thinking yesterday, am I being selfish with you?" He asks. You straighten up a little.

"What do you mean?" You ask.

"You deserve to be happy, Y/N. You shouldn't have to wait for me," he says. You stare at the man you were in love with.

"Merlin, do you remember what you said to me in Ealdor?" You ask. He sighs and nods.

"I didn't need to ask you to wait. And you don't need to either. I love you, Merlin and I'm not going to let you think this isn't what I want. I'd wait a thousand years if it meant I could be with you," you tell him, still very aware of how close Arthur is and how he could hear you if you were any louder.

The sorcerer glances at you again. While his head was turned you press a small kiss to his lips.

Arthur was slowing down, so Merlin responded quickly.

"I love you, too, Y/N," he says causing a smile to appear on your lips. You both look at your friend who pulled his horse to a stop and looks at you.

"Happy to be home?" He asks. You look over to see the palace not far away. You nod.

"Yes," you say and both men smile at you.

When you arrive back on the palace grounds, Gwen and Morgana rush out of the doors and run up to you as Merlin helps you off the horse. You smile at him softly, before the girls both envelope you in a hug causing you to laugh, and stumble a bit.

"Oh, thank God you're okay!" Gwen says. The girls pull back from you.

"Oh, come on lets get you cleaned up," Morgana says, pulling you towards the palace. You glance back at Merlin and Arthur who were watching you with smiles on their faces.

"I believe a feast is in order," Morgana says and you hear Arthur start laughing behind you, and you did the same. She gives the two of you a questioning look, but neither of you explain it to her.

The girls take you up to your chambers, Gwen prepares a bath, and Morgana helps you get ready after. You hear a knock on your door, and Gwen answers. Arthur is standing there with flowers. Gwen smiles at him and lets him in.

You turn to him and raise an eyebrow.

"Really?" You ask. He nods and hands you the flowers. You look at him accusingly. "Where'd you get these." He gestures towards the door.

"Oh, Merlin got them for me," he says as if it's obvious. "But, it was my idea." You roll your eyes and hug him breifly.

"Thank you, Arthur," you say. Gwen walks over.

"I'll put them in a vase," she says. You smile at her and she grabs them.

"Thank you, Gwen," you say. She nods and walks off.

"My father has prepared a proper feast for your return. It's not the largest affair but-"

"It's fine Arthur," you say. He nods and gives you a small smile, sending a similar one to Morgana behind you. He leaves and Morgana pulls you to your wardrobe.

"Now, what's Merlin's favorite color?" She wonders aloud as she looks through your clothes. You slap her arm.

"Morgana!" You say and she laughs. Gwen walks back over with a smile on her face.

"Oh, come on Y/N, you two look at eachother as if you're in love," Gwen says. A small smile makes its way to your face, and you don't respond. Gwen and Morgana gape at you, and then Morgana forces you to turn to her.

"Are you serious?" She asks. You laugh a bit.

"I'm sure I have no clue what you're talking about," you say.

"Are you with Merlin?" Gwen asks. You can't help the small smile on your lips. These girls are your closest friends, but should they know? Well, Gwen has something going on with Arthur. And Morgana did suggest it to you the day you met him, so...

"Perhaps," you say.

"Perhaps?! What do you mean? Do you love him?" Morgana asks. You smile at her and nod a little. The girls both grin at you.

"Have you told him?" Gwen asks and you nod again.

"Well, he told me first," you say, going back to your dresses. The girls gape at you.

"How long have you two been keeping it a secret?!" Morgana asks. You roll your eyes.

"Ealdor, now what do you think of this?" You ask, holding up a red dress. The girls both gape at you.

"It's been going on for weeks?" Gwen asks. You wave her off.

"We've barely had time together since then. And the past week I obviously didn't see him," you say. They both sigh and give you a sad look.

"I wasn't being serious with the secret thing!" Morgana says. You look at her, a bit worried.

"You won't say anything, will you?" She shakes her head.

"Of course not. But, what if your father finds out?" Morgana asks. You swallow.

"I said that to Merlin." You look down. "He said he didn't care, that's when he told me he loved me." The girls smile at you.

"Has he kissed you?" Gwen asks. You smile and bite on your lip a bit. Morgana and Gwen laugh a little, causing you to laugh as well.

"The boy best prove to be worth it. If he hurts you, your father won't have to do anything," Morgana says. Gwen nods in agreement. You chuckle at the girls.

"He is. Well?" You ask and hold up the dress. They nod and help you into it.

Once you're in the dining hall, Uther comes to us. "You'll eat with us tonight, won't you?" He asks. You smile at him and nod.

"It would be an honor, your majesty," you say. He smiles and guides you to the seat besides Morgana. Your father was sitting beside Arthur.

He walks up to you and you say in a low tone. "Play nice with my father tonight, Arthur. What you believe or not," you say. He glances at your father before nodding.

"For tonight. And for you," he says. You give him a small smile before he walks back to his seat.

"Merlin hasn't taken his eyes off of you since you walked in," Morgana whispers. You give her a disapproving look, but a small smile appears. You look in the direction she gestures to and see Merlin standing besides Gwen.

Morgana was right. He was looking at you, and when he noticed you looking back he smiles a bit. You give the man a small smirk and his smile widens a bit. You turn back to Uther as he stands and everyone settles.

"We are gathered tonight to honor a girl who is dear here in the palace. We feared she may have been gone from us, and are glad to see her home," he says. Everyone claps a bit and he waits for the noise to settle before adding, "Welcome home, Y/N." You give him a smile as he sits back down.

"Thank you, Uther," you say. He smiles and nods.

"Of course." He then turns to Arthur and strikes up conversation. Morgana rolls her eyes and turns to you.

"He's a charmer, isn't he?" She asks, annoyed with her father figure. You laugh a bit and continue your conversation with her for a bit.

You felt your father's eyes on you and looked over to see him glaring at you.

"Y/N," Uther says, grabbing your attention. You look at him.

"Yes?" You ask.

"If I may, what happened when you were taken?" He asks. You swallow a bit.

"I stopped to allow my horse water from the stream. A group of a dozen men snuck up on me. I managed to fight a few of them, but they had a sorcerer with them. I was thrown off my horse before I could get to far," you say. Uther's face soon turns to anger.

"There was a sorcerer so close to the palace?" If only he knew there were two in this very room.

"I'm afraid so," you say. He clenches his jaw.

"But, he's dead now, so we have nothing to fear, father," Arthur says.

"Magic is always something to fear, Arthur. It is evil, and can not bring any good," Uther says. You look down and swallow. Morgana shifts, uncomfortable.

When you were outside your chambers, you hear your father's voice.

"So, did you pay those men to take you?" He asks. You whip around, surprised he was there.

"What?"

"Did you pay them for attention?" He asks, glaring at you. You could smell the ale on him.

"No! I wouldn't do that," you say. He slams his hand against your throat, and you hit your head against the wall. You gasp for breath.

"Either way, you should have stayed missing," he spits at you. You claw at his wrists, managing to pry him off. You're good with a sword, and weapons. But this was different.

"What's going on here?!" You hear Arthur shout from the end of the corridor.

"It's fine, Arthur. I'm alright," you say, finally looking and seeing Merlin with him. He was looking at you with wide eyes. Arthur grabs your father's arm. "Arthur!"

"I saw that, Y/N, so did Merlin. Don't deny it again," Arthur says angrily, and glares at your father.

"What do you think you're doing?" Your father asks.

"Shut up, we're going to my father," Arthur says. You gape at him.

"Arthur!"

"Merlin, take her into her chambers. Now," Arthur demands. You try to go up to Arthur, but Merlin grabs your waist pushing you back.

Arthur starts dragging off your father. "Merlin, stop it! Arthur!" You yell. Merlin pulls you into your chambers, and grabs your face, standing with his back to the door.

"Y/N. Y/N!" You were breathing heavily and he pushed your hair out of your face.

"Merlin, please, it-it's not-" he cuts you off.

"Why are you protecting him? He hurt you, Y/N. He hurt you. You need to stop this," he says. You shake your head.

"I know! I know, I just... I can't lose him too, even with him the way he is," you say. Merlin stares at you for a moment.

"Y/N, he doesn't care about you. You don't need him," he says.

"He's my father!" You walk away from Merlin a bit and begin to slightly pace. "Without him, I'll have no right to be here! I... I wouldn't have anywhere to go!"

"You know Arthur and Morgana wouldn't let that happen," Merlin tries to reason with you. You sit on your bed, and he hesitantly sits beside you.

"Merlin... if my father is stripped of his title, I will be too. I know, they would take care of me... but I can't do anything." Merlin thinks for a moment.

"Yes you can. The day I met you, you beat Arthur." You scoff.

"That means nothing! Uther would never allow a woman to be a knight. And being stripped of my title would just be one more reason I can't be a knight," you say. He nods.

"Yes, however a court position would be open." You gape at Merlin. "Even Uther won't be able to deny that you know just as much as any other court member. And with Arthur, Morgana, and Gaius on your side I'm sure he'd allow it."

You look at him for a moment. "Maybe, that sounds perfect. But..." he raises an eyebrow.

"What?"

"Having no title would mean you and I could be together," you say softly. He shakes his head and rests his forehead against yours.

"I don't want you to settle for a life you don't want just to be with me."

"Any life with you is a life I want," you say, trying to convince him. He smiles at you.

"But you'd be happier. You haven't changed your mind about waiting already, have you?" He asks, a small smile playing at his lips. You shake your head.

"Of course not!" He chuckles.

"Good. Because I'd wait a thousand years for you," he says, repeating to you the same thing you'd said to him earlier that day. You smiled softly.

"But, if Uther doesn't agree-"

"If he doesn't then I'll gladly tell everyone that I'm in love with you," Merlin says. You smile at the boy.

"I'm lucky to have you, Merlin," you say. He smiles his soft, charming smile. "I love you."

He closes the space between the two of you with a soft, long kiss. Saying it felt perfect, his lips against yours, was an understatement.

[patchworkofravens]

fuck you too

[The episode opens on a picturesque view of a lake surrounded by small islands. The scene is being shot from a t-shaped dock. Then, Chris pops up in frame to address the audience.]

Chris: Yo! We're coming at you live from Camp Wawanakwa, somewhere in Muskoka, Ontario! I'm your host, Chris McLean! Dropping season one of the hottest new reality show on television... right now! Here's the deal, 22 campers have signed up to spend eight weeks right here at this crummy old summer camp. They'll compete in challenges against each other, then have to face the judgement of their fellow campers. Every three days, one team will either win a reward, or watch one of their team members walk down the Dock of Shame. Take a ride on the loser boat, hehe... and leave Total Drama Island for good!

[The camera cuts to a campfire area populated with 11 seats and a firepit. Chris stands in the foreground.]

Chris: Their fate will be decided here, at the dramatic campfire ceremonies where each week, all but one camper will receive a marshmallow.

[Chris takes a break to eat a marshmallow prepared on a skewer.]

Chris: In the end, only one will be left standing and will be rewarded with cheesy tabloid fame and a small fortune, which let's face it, they'll probably blow in a week. To survive, they'll have to battle black flies, grizzly bears, disgusting camp food...

Worm on a Plate: Hey, now.

Chris: ...and each other. Every moment will be caught on one of the hundreds of cameras situated all over the camp. Who will crumble under the pressure? Find out here, right now on... Total... Drama... Island!

[INTRO]

[Theme song]

Dear Mom and Dad I'm doin' fine, You guys are on my mind. You asked me what I wanted to be and now I think the answer is plain to see, I wanna be famous.

I wanna live close to the sun, Go pack your bags, 'cause I've already won, Everything to prove, nothing in my way I'll get there one day. Cause, I wanna be famous!

Na na na na na na na na na na na na na na na! I wanna be, I wanna be, I wanna be famous. I wanna be, I wanna be, I wanna be famous (Whistling in tune)

[The episode opens back up with Chris standing at end of the Dock of Shame.]

Chris: Welcome back to Total Drama Island. Alright, it's time to meet our first 11 campers. We told them they'd all be staying at this five star resort, so if they seem a little T.O.ed, that's probably why.

[A fancy yacht pulls away from the dock. When it is gone, Beth is shown giddily running up to Chris to envelop him in a massive hug.]

Chris: Beth, what's up?

Beth: It's so incredulous to meet you! Wow, you're much shorter in real life.

Chris: Uh... thanks.

[The boat drops off the next camper. DJ carries two duffel bags, and looks pretty pleased to be here.]

Chris: DJ!

DJ: Yo, Chris McLean! How's it going? ...Hey, you sure you got the right place here? Where's the hot tub at?

Chris: Yo, dawg, this is it. Camp Wawanakwa!

DJ: Humph. Looked a lot different on the application form.

[The next camper to disembark is Gwen. She looks very annoyed.]

Chris: Hey, Gwen.

Gwen: You mean we're staying here?

Chris: No, you're staying here. My crib is an Airstream with AC. That-a-way.

Gwen: I did not sign up for this.

Chris: Actually, you did.

[Chris produces a massive stack of papers, which Gwen promptly takes and tears in half.]

Chris: The great thing about lawyers is... they make lots of copies.

Gwen: I am not staying here.

Chris: Cool. I hope you can swim though, because your ride just left.

[The boat is already leaving to pick up the next camper, honking its horn all the way.]

Gwen: Jerk!

[When the boat returns, Geoff is jamming out on the roof. As the boat stops, he hops off and does a handstand move, landing on the dock. His bag gets thrown off after him and the boat speeds away.]

Geoff: Chris McLean! 'Sup man! It's an honour to meet you, man!

Chris: The Geoff-ster. Welcome to the island, man.

Geoff: Thanks, man.

Gwen: They say "man" one more time, I'm gonna puke.

[The next camper to arrive is Lindsay. She is introduced with dreamy-sounding music.]

Chris: Everybody, this is Lindsay. ...Not too shabby.

Lindsay: Hiiiiiii! Okay, you look so familiar.

Chris: I'm Chris McLean... the host. Of the show.

Lindsay: Oh, that's where I know you from!

Chris: Uh... yeah.

[The next camper that steps onto the dock is Heather. And she already looks like trouble.]

Chris: ...Heather.

[Beth excitedly runs up to Heather.]

Beth: Hi! Looks like we're your new friends for the rest of the next 8 weeks!

[As Beth speaks, she sprays a bit of saliva due to her braces, much to Heather's disgust. They are interrupted by heavy rock music blasting out over the lake, the source being a speaker on the boat. The speaker is being stood on by Duncan, with a scowl etched onto his face. He throws his bag onto the dock, then hops on himself. He looks pissed.]

Chris: Duncan, dude!

Duncan: I don't like surprises.

Chris: Yeah, your parole officer warned me about that, man. He also told me to give him a holler anytime and have you returned to juvie.

Duncan: *sniffs* Okay, then.

[As he makes his way to the other end of the dock, he passes by Heather.]

Duncan: Meet you by the campfire, gorgeous.

Heather: Drop dead, you skeeze!

[Heather walks to the end of the dock.]

Heather: I'm calling my parents. You can not make me stay here!

[Chris just gleefully holds up a copy of the contract Heather signed. The boat honks from across the water and everyone sees Tyler waterskiing behind the boat.]

Chris: Ladies and gentleman... Tyler!

[Tyler waves to the dock, then has his skis ripped out from beneath his feet. He skips across the water and flies over the dock, and everyone present and crashes into the pile of everyone's luggage.]

Everyone (wincing): OOOHHHH!

[One of the bags flies high and drops into the lake. The splash ends up soaking Heather from head to toe.]

Heather: Ugh, my shoes!

Chris: Wicked wipeout, man!

[Tyler shoots an arm out from under the bags and gives Chris a thumbs-up. Heather trudges back to the group, dripping wet. Chris snorts with laughter. A loud sigh is heard, and and Chris turns to greet Harold.]

Chris: Welcome to camp, Harold.

[Harold looks around at the campgrounds.]

Beth: ...What's he looking at?

Harold: ...So, you mean this show is at a crappy summer camp, and not on some big stage or something?

Chris: You got it.

Harold: ...Yes! That is so much more favourable to my skills.

[Chris shudders. The boat drops off another camper.]

Chris: Contestant number nine is Trent.

Trent: Hey, good to meet you man! Saw you on that figure skating show, nice work!

Chris: Hey, thanks man! I knew I rocked that show!

Beth: I saw that! One of the guys dropped his partner on her head, so they got immunity that week.

Harold: Luckyyyy. I hope I get dropped on my head.

Lindsay: Me too!

Trent: ...So, this is it?

[He looks at the group of campers situated on the dock. Heather is still wringing the water out from her hair.]

Trent: ...All righty, then.

[Trent goes to join the rest of the campers. He stands next to Gwen, who turns away with a scowl at first, but then glances with a smile. The next camper the boat drops off is Bridgette, who carries a surfboard.]

Bridgette: Hey, what's up?

Chris: Alright, our surfer chick, Bridgette, is here!

Duncan: *snorts* Nice board. This ain't Malibu, honey.

Bridgette: I thought we were going to be on a beach.

Chris: We are!

[The camera cuts to a... beach? It's populated by old tires, empty cans, metal waste barrels, and a seagull with a six-pack ring stuck around its neck, which is quickly washed out of frame by the waves. It's... better than nothing.]

Bridgette: *sighs* Great.

Chris: All right! That makes-

[Bridgette bends down to get her luggage, and unknowingly whacks Chris on the head with her surfboard.]

Chris: Owwww, darn it! That hurt!

Bridgette: Hey, guys.

Geoff: Heey! I'm Geoff.

[Geoff feels the need to move behind Bridgette to greet her, and as she turns, she almost knocks the campers with her board.]

Bridgette: What's up?

Harold: Dang! Watch the board, man.

Beth: Hi! I'm Beth!

Bridgette: Hey!

[Bridgette turns to greet Beth and almost knocks the campers again.]

Heather (impatient): Okay, we've all met Surfer Girl. Can we get on with the show, please?

Duncan: Someone missed their double cappuccino macchiato this morning.

Heather: Get bent.

[The boat drops off Noah next, and he just looks like a massive bummer. Chris is still rubbing his head from where Bridgette hit him.]

Chris: Our... next camper is Noah!

Noah: You got my memo about my life-threatening allergies?

Chris: I'm sure someone did!

Noah: Good. Is this where we're staying?

Duncan: No, it's your mother's house. And we're throwing a party.

Noah: Cute. Nice piercings, original. Do them yourself?

Duncan: Yeah, you want one?

[Duncan grabs Noah's lip and holds out a needle.]

Noah (mumbled): Uh, no thanks. Can I have my lip back please?

[Duncan lets go of Noah.]

Noah: Thanks.

[The next camper to arrive is Leshawna.]

Leshawna: What's up, ya'll? Leshawna's in the house!

[Harold is positively starstruck by Leshawna.]

Leshawna: Yo baby! Hey, how you doin'? How's it goin'?

[As she walks to the end of thewdock, Leshawna gives Chris a high five.]

Leshawna: Feel free to quit now, save yourselves the trouble, 'cause I came to win! Oh, what's up my brother, give me some sugar, baby!

[Leshawna gives DJ a high five.]

Harold: I've never seen a girl like you in real life before.

Leshawna: Excuse me?

Harold: You're real big... and loud.

Leshawna: What did you say to me?! Oh, no you didn't! You have not seen anything yet! I'll show you "big", baby!

[Leshawna moves in on Harold, and has to be restrained by DJ and Bridgette. Harold retaliates by making some sort of Karate Kid-esque move.]

Leshawna: Oh yeah, you want some of this?! Well, come on then!

Chris: All right, campers! Settle down.

[DJ and Bridgette let go of Leshawna, who fixes her shirt. She shoots a look at Harold, who just smiles back. The next contestant, or rather, contestants to be dropped off are Katie and Sadie. They wear matching outfits and carry matching luggage.]

Chris: Ladies, Sadie, Katie. Welcome to your new home for eight weeks.

[The camera cuts to the cabin grounds. Flies buzz everywhere. But Katie and Sadie don't care. In fact, they're ecstatic.]

Katie: Oh my gosh, Sadie, look! It's a summer camp!

Sadie: Okay! I always wanted to go to summer camp! Eee!

[The next camper off the boat is Ezekiel. He looks very unkempt.]

Chris: Ezekiel! What's up, man?

[Ezekiel actually looks up into the sky.]

Ezekiel: ...I think I see a bird.

[Trent laughs.]

Chris: Okay, look dude. I know you don't get out much. Been home schooled your whole life, raised by freaky prairie people... just don't say much and try not to get kicked off too early, okay?

Ezekiel: Yes, sir!

Gwen: That's just... wow.

[The boat drives off once again, leaving Cody standing on the dock.]

Chris: Cody! The Code-ster! The Codemeister!

[Cody walks to take his place at the end of the dock.]

Cody (confident): Dude, psyched to be here, man! I see the ladies have already arrived. Alright.

[Cody goes to talk to Leshawna, but...]

Leshawna: Save it, short stuff.

[The next camper lands on the dock with a *THUD!* Eva doesn't look like she's smiled once in her life.]

Chris: Eva. Nice. Glad you could make it.

[Eva stands with the rest of the campers and drops her bag down, which lands on Cody's foot with a *CLANG!*]

Cody: Ow! What's in there? Dumbbells?

Eva: Yes.

Duncan (to DJ): She's all yours, man.

[The next camper to arrive exudes happiness. Owen is the only one who looks genuinely excited to be here.]

Owen: Wooohoooo! Chris! What's happenin'? *laughs* This is awesome! Wooohooo!

Chris: Owen! Welcome!

[Owen picks up Chris in a rib-crushing hug.]

Owen: Awesome to be here, man! Yeah! Man, this is just so...

Gwen: Awesome?

Owen: Yes! Awesome! Wooooo! Are you going to be on my team?

Gwen (sarcastic): Oh, I sure hope so.

Owen: Woooooooooooooooooooooooo!

Chris: You about finished?

[Owen puts Chris back down.]

Owen: Sorry dude, I'm just so psyched!

Chris: Cool. And here comes Courtney.

[The next camper to arrive is Courtney, who looks very proper as she waves to the dock. Chris gives her a hand off the boat]

Courtney: Thank you. Hi, you must be the other contestants. It's really nice to meet you all.

[Owen grabs Courtney's hand with two hands and shakes it.]

Owen: How's it going? I'm Owen!

Courtney: Nice to meet you- ohhhhh... wow.

[The boat crosses the water with the next camper on board. You can practically see Justin's muscles through his shirt. And everyone notices how good he looks. Sadie even faints.]

Chris: This is Justin! Welcome to Total Drama Island.

Justin: Thanks, Chris. This is great.

Chris: Just so you know, we picked you based entirely on your looks.

Justin: I can deal with that.

Owen: I like your pants!

Justin: Thanks, man.

Owen: 'Cause they look like they're all worn out. *laughs* Did you buy them like that?

Justin: Uh, no. Just... had them for a while.

Owen: Oh, cool. *facepalms* Stupid!

Chris: Hey, everyone! Izzy!

[Izzy stands near the top of the boat, and is dressed in what appears to be a green loincloth looking thing. As the boat pulls to a stop, she runs to the bow of the boat.]

Izzy: Hi, Chris! Hi! Hi- Whoa!

[Izzy trips over the railing on the bow and falls off the boat into the water, bouncing her face off the edge of the dock as she goes.]

Tyler: OOOOH! That was bad! *laughs*

Courtney: Guys! She could be seriously hurt!

[Courtney runs over to pull Izzy out of the water. Izzy shakes herself dry, similar to a dog.]

Izzy: That felt so… good! Except for hitting my chin. This is summer camp? That is so cool. Do you have paper maché here? Are we having lunch soon?

Owen: That is a good call!

Chris: First things first. We need a group photo for the promos. Everyone on the end of the dock!

[Everyone walks to the opposite end of the dock to pose in front of the Camp Wawanakwa sign. Chris hops onto the bow of the boat with a camera in hand.]

Chris: Okay! One, two, three...

[The camera only gives a half-hearted snap.]

Chris: Oops! Okay, forgot the lens cap!

[Chris presses a button on the camera and the lens opens up.]

Chris: Okay, hold that pose. One, tw-. Oh, no wait, card's full. Hang on.

Leshawna (rolling eyes): Come on, man. My face is starting to freeze.

Chris: Got it! Okay, everyone say "Wawanakwa!"

Campers: Wawanakwa- AHHH!

[Chris captures a perfect promo shot... just as the dock collapses underneath the collective weight of all the campers and sends them all into the water.]

Chris: Okay, guys. Dry off and meet at the campfire pit in ten!

[COMMERCIAL BREAK]

[The episode comes back with all the campers looking much drier than the last time we saw them. They all sit at the campfire area while Chris stands before them.]

Chris: This is Camp Wawanakwa, your home for the next eight weeks. The campers sitting around you will be you cabin mates, your competition, and maybe even your friends. Ya dig?

[Harold looks over at Duncan, who threatens him with a fist.]

Chris: The camper who manages to stay on Total Drama Island the longest without getting voted off will win $100,000!

Duncan: Excuse me? What will the sleeping arrangements be? Because I'd like to request a bunk under her. *jams a thumb at Heather*

Heather: They're not co-ed, are they?

Chris: No. Girls get one side of each cabin, and dudes get the other.

Lindsay: Excuse me, Kyle? Can I have a cabin with the lake view since I'm the prettiest?

Chris: Okay, you are. But that's not really how it works here, and it's Chris.

Katie: I have to live with Sadie, or I'll die.

Sadie: And I'll break out in hives. It's true.

Gwen: This cannot be happening.

[Owen pulls Gwen and Tyler into one arm hugs. But it looks more like a pair of headlocks.]

Owen: Awww, come on guys! It'll be fun, it's like a big sleepover!

Tyler: At least you don't have to sleep next to him.

[The camera cuts to Duncan who is in the middle of noogie-ing a deer while rock music plays.]

Chris: Here's the deal. We're gonna split you into two teams.

[Chris pulls out a master list of the teams.]

Chris: If I call your name out, go stand over there. Gwen. Trent. Heather. Cody. Lindsay. Beth. Katie. Owen. Leshawna. Justin. And... Noah. From this moment on, you are officially known as... the Screaming Gophers!

[Chris throws Owen a large green banner which unfurls to reveal a gopher baring its teeth and looking for a fight.]

Owen: Yeah! I'm a Gopher! Woooo!

Katie: Wait! What about Sadie?

Chris: The rest of you, over here. Geoff. Bridgette. DJ. Tyler. Sadie. Izzy. Courtney. Ezekiel. Duncan. Eva, and... Harold. Move, move, move, move!

Sadie (protesting): But Katie's a Gopher! I have to be a Gopher!

Courtney: Sadie, is it? Come on, it'll be okay.

[Courtney gently leads Sadie away to her teammates.]

Sadie: This is so unfair! I miss you, Katie!

Katie: I miss you too!

Chris: You guys will officially be known as... the Killer Bass!

[Chris throws Harold a red banner that unrolls to show a bass looking ready to get violent.]

Harold: That's awesome! It's like... amazing!

Chris: All right, campers, you and your team will be on camera in all public areas during this competition.

[*STATIC*]

Chris : You will also be able to share your innermost thoughts on tape with video diaries anytime you want. Let the audience at home know what you're really thinking. Or, just get something off your chest!

[*STATIC*]

Gwen (confessional): Um, okay... so far, this sucks.

[*STATIC*]

[Lindsay is looking at the back wall of the confessional stall, with the camera pointing at her rear.]

Lindsay (confessional): Um... I don't get it. Where's the camera guy?

[*STATIC*]

[Somehow a loon has made its way into the confessional, and gets caught on camera applying lipstick. Where the lipstick came from... is a different question.]

[*STATIC*]

Owen (confessional): Hey everyone, check this out. I have something very important to say.

[Owen rips a noxious fart and laughs to himself.]

[*STATIC*]

[Back to the main show.]

Chris: Alright, any questions? Cool. Let's find your cabins.

[Chris leads the campers to the cabin grounds, filled with two cabins.]

Chris: Gophers, you're in the east cabin. Bass, you're in the west.

[The Gophers open the door to their cabin and enter.]

Heather: Bunk beds? Isn't this a little... summer camp?

[Gwen bumps Heather as she moves past her.]

Gwen: That's the idea, genius.

Heather: Ugh, shut up, weird goth girl!

Cody: You're so smart, I feel that.

Gwen: Shouldn't you be on the boy's side?

[Cody just smiles. And as he gets thrown out, he narrowly avoids hitting Leshawna. He crashes in front of Trent and picks himself up with a clod of grass in his mouth.]

Lindsay: Where are the outlets? I have to plug in my straightening iron.

Chris: There are some in the communal bathrooms. Just across the way.

Lindsay: Communal bathrooms? But, I'm not Catholic...

Chris: Not Communion, Communal.

Gwen: It means we shower together. Idiot.

Lindsay (whining): Aww, d-- no! C'mon!

Owen: I'm glad we're in our own cabin with just guys. Know what I mean? *laughs*

[Trent and Noah look at Owen, unamused. Crickets chirp in the background.]

Owen: I mean- no! I didn't mean it like that! I love chicks! *laughs* I just don't wanna sleep near them. *incoherent noises* I mean-

[Trent and Noah walk back into the cabin, while Owen races in behind them.]

Geoff: Excuse me, Chris? Is there a... chaperone of any kind in this facility here?

Chris: You're all 16 years old, as old as a counselor in training at a regular summer camp. So other than myself, you'll be unsupervised. You've got a half an hour to unpack and meet me back at the main lodge, starting now!

Geoff: Nice!

[A piercing scream, courtesy of Lindsay, rings out through the entire campground. Gwen, Tyler, DJ, Harold, Heather, Duncan and Leshawna stick their heads in the door of the Gophers' cabin.]

Leshawna: Oh man, that white girl can scream!

Lindsay: What is it?! Kill it, kill it!

[Lindsay is cowering from a cockroach skittering across the floor of the cabin. DJ gasps, then screams like a girl before jumping into a bed, reducing it to splinters. He shakes and shudders in the ruins of the bed.]

Gwen: That... was my bed.

[The cockroach crawls around the floor, and the campers either try to stomp on it or get away from it, all the while screaming their heads off. As it tries to get to the door, it finds its path blocked by Duncan, who raises an axe into the air.]

Cockroach (high-pitched): Help me!

[The screen cuts to black as the axe is buried into the floor, bisecting the cockroach.]

Gwen: Well, that's one way to kill a cockroach.

Harold: Awesome.

Tyler (to Lindsay): If you ever see one of those again, just let me know, 'kay? Cause, *sniff* you know, I can do that too.

[Love music plays as Lindsay and Tyler look at each other with a light in their eyes.]

Duncan: *scoffs* They always go for the jocks.

[The camera cuts to the dining hall/main lodge, where the campers line up to receive their meal from Chef Hatchet, who is a person you do not refuse.]

Chef: Listen up! I serve it three times a day, and you'll eat it three times a day! Grab a tray, get your food, and sit your butts down NOW!

Beth: Excuse me, but will we be getting all the major food groups?

[Chef scoops what appear to be... sloppy joes? ...onto a few trays, which are taken by Harold and Beth.]

Harold: Yeah, 'cause I get hypoglycemic real bad if I don't get enough sugar.

[Chef gets a look in his eye.]

Chef: You'll get a whole lot of SHUT THE HECK UP!

Owen (to Noah): Have a cow!

Chef: What was that?! Come closer, fat boy! I didn't hear you!

Owen (nervous): Oh, I didn't really say anything important...

Chef: I'm sure you didn't! You! Scrawny kid, gimme your plate.

[He gives Noah another scoop of the dubious food, but it latches itself back onto the scoop Chef used. Chef remedies this by throwing onto Noah's tray harder, and Noah leaves with his tray. Leshawna stands in line next to Eva.]

Leshawna: Yo, what's up girl?

[Eva turns to glare at Leshawna without a word, then she leaves with her tray.]

Leshawna: ...Oh, it's gonna be like that, is it?

Chef (screaming): NEXT!

[Later, Lindsay and Gwen step up to get their food.]

Lindsay: Excuse me? My nutritionist says I shouldn't eat any white sugar, white flour, or like, dairy.

[Chef grabs a fly out of the air while glaring at Lindsay.]

Gwen: I don't think that's gonna be a problem.

Lindsay: Cool.

[Gwen's sandwich jiggles in a way that food shouldn't ever do.]

Gwen: Okay, I hate to be predictable and complain on the first day, but I think mine just moved.

[Chef produces a large wooden mallet and slams it on Gwen's food, sending it spraying all over himself and Gwen.]

Gwen (nervous): Right! Okay, then...

[As the campers eat, something that... was food slithers across the floor. Chris walks in the front door. ]

Chris: Welcome to the main lodge!

Geoff: Yo, my man. Can we order a pizza?

[Chef responds by throwing a cleaver across the dining hall and embedding it into the doorframe.]

Geoff: Whoa! It's cool, G! Brown slop is cool! *laughs nervously* Right guys?

[The rest of the campers fearfully nod in agreement as Chef brandishes another knife.]

Chris: Your first challenge begins... in one hour!

[Chris leaves the dining hall.]

Katie: What do you think they'll make us do?

DJ: It's our first challenge, how hard can it be?

[They are shown just how hard when the camera cuts to the campers standing in their swimming uniforms atop a cliff... which extends hundreds of feet above the rest of the island.]

DJ: ...Oh, sh**.

[FADE OUT]

[TEASER]

Chris: Next time on Total Drama Island...

Chris (voiceover): Your first task is to jump off this 1,000 foot high cliff into the lake.

[*STATIC*]

Geoff (confessional): I'm looking at this guy and thinkin' there's no way he's gonna make it.

[*STATIC*]

Gwen (confessional): I actually thought, "If he jumps this... he's gonna die."

[*STATIC*]

[In a teaser clip of the next episode, Owen steps up to take a run up to the jump off of the cliff.]

'Owen (flashforward): I'm going to die now. I'm going to frickin die now.

[The audience is shown clips of vicious looking sharks swimming through the lake, and of Owen taking a belly flop from a very high point while he screams the whole way down. A massive splash is heard as Bridgette, Geoff and Eva all flinch from the event, and the impact sends a flock of birds flying.]

[CREDITS]

get total drama'd loser <3

mmmmwow interesting tell me more props chin in hand and takes popcorn

[infinite-xerath]

Runeterra Retcons: Ruination Episode (Finale)

Finale 1/2

From the darkness, you emerge into a field of lowers. Dawn breaks over the horizon to illuminate crumbling ruins all around you: what looks to be the remnants of a once-great kingdom. The Black Mist, the screaming of the wraiths and the sounds of battle have all vanished. The scene before you is almost tranquil, but that tranquility is cut short when you notice the figures ahead of you.

Lucian: “AAAAAAHHHHH!!!!!”

Lucian lets loose a flurry of light from his Relic pistols, but Viego seems entirely unfazed as the light fails to pierce his armor. Vex stands behind him, and further back, you see the unconscious form of Senna hanging from a pillar by ethereal chains. At her feet are the now-lifeless fetters, laid out almost like an offering.

Viego: “Do you see now how futile it is, Sentinel? How powerless you are to save the one you love, just as I was?”

Lucian: “Damn it!”

You hear the Maiden of the Mist whispering to you once more, beckoning you to succumb to her influence.

Maiden: “Yes. It is meaningless to resist. Come. Let us be as one.”

Though her words are oddly enticing, they also spark a realization within you. Suddenly, Yorick’s words click in your mind as you rise to your feet.

“We haven’t lost yet, Lucian!”

“Don’t give up yet!”

All eyes turn toward you as you race up the hill, your fingers digging tightly into Yorick’s shroud of darkness.

Lucian: “Rookie!? What the hell are you doin’ here?”

Viego: “Another uninvited guest? Well, no matter. Welcome to Camavor, child. Soon, my queen and I will be reunited, and all will be as it should.”

“You’re wrong, Viego.”

“You missed a piece.”

Viego: “What?”

Vex: “Ugh, what’s this idiot talking about now? Honestly, I can just finish him off right here. Just give the word, boss.”

“You’ve gathered up Isolde’s light, but you completely ignored her darkness.”

“There was a fetter right under your nose all this time, but you couldn’t see it. No… You never wanted to!”

Viego response 1: “Ridiculous! My queen is perfect! Pure! She is the light of my world! There is not a shred of darkness in her!”

Viego response 2: “Impossible. You speak nonsense, child. The last remnant resides in her, the Sentinel! There… There is no other…”

“Isolde was just a person, Viego, and everyone has a little darkness inside of them!”

“You want your queen to be perfect, but even she can feel hatred and sorrow Let me show you!

You toss Yorick’s cloak into the air and the darkness forms into a ghastly figure: the Maiden of the Mist. Viego’s face contorts in horror as he watches the specter manifest, as though unable to believe what he’s seeing.

Viego: “It cannot be… But there is no doubt! I can feel her inside this… Creature! Isolde!?”

Maiden: “Ah, my king! Our king! You wrenched us from our slumber, now you would abandon us!? You said you wanted to be one… Then join us! Join us in eternity!”

The Maiden reaches out her hands as her, filling the air with her inhuman wails. A chord of darkness forms between her and Viego as the Maiden siphons his power away from him.

Viego: “No! Stop this! STOP IT!”

Vex: “What did you just do!?”

“Lucian, now your chance!”

“Lucian, get Senna!”

Lucian stares in disbelief at the scene before him a while long, but quickly shakes himself from his daze. As Viego struggles against the Maiden, Lucian makes for the pillar, blasting Senna free from her restraints. Senna falls to ground, but Lucian is quick to catch her.

Senna: “Ngh…”

Lucian: “Senna!”

Senna: “Lucian…?”

Lucian: “I’m here. I’ve got you.”

Senna rises to her feet, clutching her head. A look of visible confusion corsses her face as she scans the scene before her.

Senna: “What’s happening? Where are we? Is that… Viego?”

Viego continues to struggle against the Maiden’s pull, but to no avail. You see strands of light mingling with the darkness as the Maiden feasts, though a familiar shadow soon manifests behind her.

Vex: “Get off of him!”

Vex and her shadow sever the connection between Viego and the Maiden, causing both to cry out in pain. The Maiden soon reverts back into a cloak of darkness, falling unceremoniously onto the ground.

As the connection is severed, whisps of scatter all around you, darting about the ruins before finally embedding themselves into the fetters at Senna’s feet. One finds refuge within your Wayfinder, restoring the Relic’s light.

Viego: “No… NO! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!?”

Senna: “Just what is happening here, Lucian?”

Lucian struggles to think of an explanation, but before he can, the doll at Senna’s feet suddenly floats into the air and springs to life. In a flash of light, Gwen is standing beside her commanding officers, her form fully restored.

Gwen: “Goodness! I think I just had a most awful dream… Oh, hello Lucian! Senna! Rookie! And…”

Gwen frowns when she sees Viego and Vex.

Gwen: “Ah, it seems now is not the time for happy reunions!”

“Welcome back, Gwen!”

“Welcome back, Senna!”

Viego turns his gaze toward you, his eyes full of malice.

Viego: “You! You will pay for this, child!

Viego screams with rage and charges you, leveling his sword straight for your heart. You reach for your Relicstone shard, though it quickly becomes apparent that you won’t be able to grasp it time.

Senna: “Rookie! Look out!”

Finale 2/2

Just as it seems Viego’s sword is about to run you through, a swirling barrier of violet energy surrounds you. The blade of the Ruined King glances harmlessly off and Viego staggers back in surprise. Shen and the other Sentinels all appear manifest you, as well as those you set free from Viego’s control. The Eye of Twilight falls to the ground, nearly breathless.

Shen: “It seems… We were not… Too late.”

Akshan: “Indeed! Now, what is happening?”

“We’ve got Viego on the ropes!”

“Viego’s weakened! Now, let’s finish him!”

Vayne: “I’m not sure what you did, kid, but it looks like we can finally put this monster down once and for all!”

Viego: “Ngh… How dare you!?”

Senna: “Sentinels! Let’s wrap this up!”

Taking charges of the group once more, Senna directs each Sentinel’s efforts toward bringing down the Ruined King. Though weakened, Viego still holds a great deal of power at his disposal, conjuring swaths of Black Mist to keep you and your allies at bay. Despite your greater numbers, you can feel the exhaustion of the last several hours earing down on your, and your allies are clearly nearing their limits as well.

Suddenly, the Relicstone shard in your pocket flies from your grasp. You turn to see Senna standing behind you, her cannon now broken up in several different pieces lingering in the air before her. Your piece soon joins them as a web of radiance and darkness spreads between.

Senna: “I’ve got you!”

Energy courses through you as a wave of power washes over the battlefield, surrounding you and your allies in shimmering barriers. Viego, on the other hand, is thrown back into the grass, his armor breaking apart from the impact. He seems almost pathetic as he scrambles to his feet, desperately seeking a way to turn the tides in his favor.

Viego. “This cannot be… Our reunion was nearly at hand!”

“Admit it, Viego! You never really loved her! She was never anything more than a prize to you!”

“She may have loved you once, Viego, but not anymore! Not after what you’ve become!”

Viego: “Damn you!”

Vex: “Viego! Come on!”

All eyes turn to see Vex standing before another shadowy portal. Upon realizing that she’s been spotted, the yordle leaps through, not even daring to look back.

Lucian: “Don’t let him get away!”

Viego creates a Harrowed path along the ground as he sprints across the field, appearing and disappearing so frequently that it’s impossible to get a clean shot it. Ultimately, the Ruined King flees through the Vex’s gateway just as it closes, leaving you and your allies alone in the silent ruins of Camavor.

“We’ve gotta go after him!”

“Where did they go!?”

Lillia (if option 1 is picked): “But… But where did he go? Back to those dreadful Isles, maybe?”

Gangplank (if option 2 is picked): “Back to the Shadow Isles I’d wager, the slippery bastard.”

Shen: “My apologies… I would follow, but…”

Jayce: “Hey, don’t push yourself. I’m still not sure how this spirit stuff works yet, but it clearly took a lot out of you to get us here.”

Senna: “Nothing for it. For now, let’s gather up the fetters and get back to headquarters, or what’s left of it. We’ll discuss out next move there. Rookie, that Wayfinder still intact?”

“The Wayfinder is back online!”

“Good to go!”

Gwen and the other Sentinels gather up the fetters, though you quickly note that Yorick’s shadow cloak has vanished. Deciding not to dwell on it, you raise the Wayfinder and let its light carry you back to headquarters.

The sun shines on the remnants of the Sentinel outpost. Not a trace of Black Mist is to be seen anywhere, and as you look to the world map, you see that the Harrowing has receded back to the Shadow Isles.

Tryndamere: “It seems that things are returning to normal. Speaking of…”

The Hallowed Mist begins to dissipate from those you freed from Viego’s control, returning them to their usual selves.

“I guess the Wayfinder’s power only lasts for so long.”

“I guess those snazzy new looks were only temporary.”

Draven: “Eh, this is more Draven’s style anyway. I don’t need any of that Mist stuff show how awesome I am!”

Riven: “As if the Mist really makes a difference with you…”

Gwen: “So then… It seems we’ve won? We stopped Viego, gathered all the fetters, and drove back the Black Mist!”

Senna: “Well… Viego’s still out there, but without the power of the fetters, he won’t be able to go beyond the boundary of the Shadow Isles. For the time-being, I’d call this a victory.”

A wave of relief washes over you as you collapse onto the ground, exhaustion finally taking its toll. After all that transpired last night, you find yourself too excited to even properly celebrate, but you still take comfort in knowing that you’ve stopped the end of the world.

“So… What happens now?”

“What’s everyone’s next move?”

Lucian: “Well, seems to me like our fight ain’t over quite yet, and I’m lookin’ at a whole bunch of new Sentinel recruits. Whaddya say we get you all sworn in and-”

Tryndamere: “I’ll pass. Much as I’d love to run that Ruined King through with my blade, I’m needed back home. I… Have a lot of explaining to do when I get back to my wife.”

Senna: “Speaking of… Lucian, you wanna explain where you were when our base came under attack, and where this Shuriman came from?”

Akshan: “Ah, so you’re Senna? Lucian… You are a lucky devil.”

Lucian: “Heh… Yeah, lucky enough to be married to the most beautiful woman in the world.”

Senna glares at Lucian, unfazed by his flattery.

Lucian: “Uh, anyway! What about the rest of you?”

Draven: “Pass. I mean, I can TOTALLY get wanting Draven on your team, but that’s not how I roll. Besides, I gotta get back the arena for my triumphant return.”

Shyvana: “I must also return and ensure that the king is unharmed, as well as my allies in the Dargonguard.”

Lillia: “U-Um… I’m flattered by the offer, but… I’d much rather not go back to that awful place! That was terrifying!”

Viktor: “Though these Relicstones and fetters warrant further analysis, my primary concerns must be rebuilding my lab and beginning developing countermeasures toward future mind-altering attempts.”

Atreus: “My battle lies elsewhere. I must tame these embers that Pantheon left inside me to ensure they never rage out of control again.”

Gangplank: “Not interested. I’ve still got a city to reclaim, and a grudge to settle. Speakin’ of… Graves! Don’t think I’ve forgotten about you!”

Graves: “Uh oh. Guess that’s my cue to hit the road! Honestly, this hero business don’t really suit me anyway. Seein’ as my partner’s still nowhere to be seen, there ain’t much reason to stick around.”

Diana: “I, too, must depart. The Lunari need me, even if the Aspect within me has yet to fully heal.”

Shen: “Likewise, I must return and ensure that my brothers and sisters in the Kinkou are unharmed.”

Olaf: “Hmph. I still haven’t found my glorious death… But perhaps that’s fine. This will become another chapter in the glorious saga of Olaf! Now, I depart to find my next foe, and build my legend even higher!”

Rengar: “I, too, have a worthy foe to seek. The Ruined King is your prey, but mine still lurks somewhere in the jungle…”

“So that’s it? Everyone is just leaving?”

“So much for our army of Sentinels…”

Vayne: “I wouldn’t be so sure about that. This… Little adventure of ours has made one thing clear: there are monsters out there that Demacia is nowhere near ready to face on its own. I think I’ll take over that abandoned Sentinel base and see about boosting our numbers a bit. If the Mageseekers have a problem with it, well… I’ve never exactly played by the rules, anyway.”

Jayce: “Can’t say I’d consider this Sentinel thing a full-time gig, but after everything that’s happened, I can at least pitch in and help Ada and Dess out, from time to time. A hero’s gotta help however he can, after-all.”

Akshan: “Well said! Though Shadya’s killer remains at large, I would happy to lend you my assistance again, if and when you need me. It is what she would want from me, after-all.”

Riven: “I’m… I’m honestly not sure what’s next for me. I could use a little time to think things over, if that’s alright.”

Gwen: “And you can be certain that I’ll pitch in however I can! Where the Black Mist goes, the Hallowed Mist will be there to fend it off!”

Lucian: “Heh… Well, we’ve still got a long way to go toward rebuildin’ the Sentinels, but it’s a start.”

Senna: “That’s right. We’ll get this base repaired and find a safe place to store the fetters, in case Viego ever tries to go for them again. On that note… Rookie, come here.”

You rise to your feet and approach the world map uncertainly, though Senna’s smile puts you at ease.

Senna: “Now that I think about it, you never did get properly sworn in, did you? I think it’s about time we make it official, and start your training in earnest. Repeat after me.”

Senna guides you through the ancient oath, carving the words deep into your soul. You can almost feel the Wayfinder thrumming in response as you take your first steps toward becoming a true Sentinel of Light.

I swear by the light of the ancients...

I will not run from darkness. I will light the way with a steadfast heart, And face each shadow with a ready weapon As a beacon, a warrior, a Sentinel, I defend myself, my fellows, and my world. May we stand together in the light, or fall in darkness.

Fight bravely and remember your oath.

Epilogue

Amidst the remnants of Helia stoops a lone figure, his fist tightening around his blade.

Viego: “How could this happen? I do not understand… My queen… You were within my grasp! That bitterness… That sorrow… Was that truly you?”

Thresh: “Ah, the sweet tones of misery…”

Viego: “Thresh.”

Viego rises to his feet and glares at the warden.

Viego: “What do you want, warden?”

Thresh: “Your anguish is every bit as delightful as I’d imagined. She was so close, wasn’t she? So close, and now she’s been stripped away from you a second time.”

Viego: “It matters not! I can find her again… However long it takes, I will find her!”

Thresh: “Yes, good. That sweet delusion still persists. It will be so satisfying watching the remnants of your resolve shatter.”

Viego: “You think to shatter me, warden?”

With a wave of his hand, Viego summons several wraiths to his side.

Viego: “Your lantern cannot ME, Thresh. Every soul within these Isles bends to my will, for I am their king!”

???: “You are no king.”

Suddenly, the ghosts of the kiilash leaps from the shadows, pouncing upon Viego’s wraiths and rending them to shreds.

Viego: “What is this!?”

???: “You are nothing more than a petulant child, lashing out over the loss of your favorite toy. You are unfit to call yourself Lord of the Dead.”

A massive figure looms over Viego, staring down at the Ruined King with contempt.

Viego: “Who are you?”

???: “I have many names. Founder of the Immortal Bastion. The Iron Revenant. Mordekaiser.”

Mordekaiser: “But you may call me Master.”

To Be Continued…

[gwendolynsilverknight]

MC Summer Camp day 1: Jorvik

(It’s been years since I did any creative writing, so this is only a starting point! It’s for Reed’s @hobbithorsewhat MC Summer Camp prompts and well, my Gwen deserves some more space to shine!)

Gwendolyn absentmindedly dangled her feet along the sides of Silverknight. His even steps were almost rocking her to sleep as he walked up the road with her on his back. Gwen was, although physically on her horse’s back, seemingly in a world of her own, deep in thought. Silverknight snorted and shook his head a little to shake off some flies. His rider had a tendency to forget her surroundings and get lost in thought every now and then. Not that he minded much, he knew she trusted him to carry her safely, but things got a little quiet sometimes. He sighed, and turned his head slightly to look at her.   “An apple for your thoughts?” he hummed, and Gwen winced, pulled out of her thoughts.    “Sorry,” she said, “I was just thinking. This island is so full of life, I can’t imagine how different it must’ve looked before.” She pulled a strand of hair from her eyes. “I spent my first five years on this island and I didn’t know how special it was.”    “Of course you did, Gwendolyn. You don’t need to know about the real magic of this place to understand how special it is. No amount of magic beats the imagination of a child playing in the meadows or climbing the trees of this island.”

They said nothing else for a little while, passing trees and rocks as they went. The air was warm, and there was a gentle breeze. The scent of pines, of warm grass, the familiar sounds of nature surrounding them, combined with Silverknight’s soft hoofbeats against the old road. The sun was shining and birds were singing, and it felt peaceful. Jorvik truly is a special place, Gwen thought, unlike any other she’d been to. It wasn’t very big, and yet it felt like there was always something new to discover in some hidden corner of the island. It was practically begging to be explored. It had deep valleys and high mountain tops, age old forests of tall trees, soft green fields that went on forever, the lakes that always seemed so clean. Gwendolyn loved it. Jorvik was ancient, and it seemed to pulse with magic in every aspect of it. Its nature, its people, its horses. But something was still nagging at her.    “Silver, were you here? When, you know…” she didn’t know how to continue.   “When Aideen spread her light and gave the island life?” he finished for her. She nodded. “No, I came after. That was many reincarnations ago, my friend, my soul might be old, but my memories are that of my lifetime. But what a sight it would’ve been, seeing a desolate rock turn into an inhabitable island. Trees sprouting, grass spreading for miles… Grass…” Silverknight trailed off, and Gwendolyn laughed.    “Can you think of anything but food? You’ll get plenty of that once we stop.” She scratched his mane, and he closed his eyes for a second to enjoy the affection.    “Jorvik is a special place,” he said, stopping outside the gates of Firgrove. “It led you to me, didn’t it?”    “Yes,” said Gwen. “And I hope it’ll remain safe and sound, too.” She bit her lip, and Silverknight hummed.    “That’s up to us, isn’t it? But for now, it’s time for lunch. I smell Mrs Packard’s pancakes from here, and there’s a patch of grass with my name on it. What do you say?”    “Sounds perfect,” said Gwen, smiling. She gave Silverknight’s neck a pat, and nudged him into walking through the gates. It was a perfectly sunny day, and she was going to enjoy the island with her best friend. Anything else could wait.

[blueares]

Ruination Rewrite: Finale

Finale 1/2

From the darkness, you emerge into a field of lowers. Dawn breaks over the horizon to illuminate crumbling ruins all around you: what looks to be the remnants of a once-great kingdom. The Black Mist, the screaming of the wraiths and the sounds of battle have all vanished. The scene before you is almost tranquil, but that tranquility is cut short when you notice the figures ahead of you.

Lucian: “AAAAAAHHHHH!!!!!”

Lucian lets loose a flurry of light from his Relic pistols, but Viego seems entirely unfazed as the light fails to pierce his armor. Vex stands behind him, and further back, you see the unconscious form of Senna hanging from a pillar by ethereal chains. At her feet are the now-lifeless fetters, laid out almost like an offering.

Viego: “Do you see now how futile it is, Sentinel? How powerless you are to save the one you love, just as I was?”

Lucian: “Damn it!”

You hear the Maiden of the Mist whispering to you once more, beckoning you to succumb to her influence.

Maiden: “Yes. It is meaningless to resist. Come. Let us be as one.”

Though her words are oddly enticing, they also spark a realization within you. Suddenly, Yorick’s words click in your mind as you rise to your feet.

“We haven’t lost yet, Lucian!”

“Don’t give up yet!”

All eyes turn toward you as you race up the hill, your fingers digging tightly into Yorick’s shroud of darkness.

Lucian: “Rookie!? What the hell are you doin’ here?”

Viego: “Another uninvited guest? Well, no matter. Welcome to Camavor, child. Soon, my queen and I will be reunited, and all will be as it should.”

“You’re wrong, Viego.”

“You missed a piece.”

Viego: “What?”

Vex: “Ugh, what’s this idiot talking about now? Honestly, I can just finish him off right here. Just give the word, boss.”

“You’ve gathered up Isolde’s light, but you completely ignored her darkness.”

“There was a fetter right under your nose all this time, but you couldn’t see it. No… You never wanted to!”

Viego response 1: “Ridiculous! My queen is perfect! Pure! She is the light of my world! There is not a shred of darkness in her!”

Viego response 2: “Impossible. You speak nonsense, child. The last remnant resides in her, the Sentinel! There… There is no other…”

“Isolde was just a person, Viego, and everyone has a little darkness inside of them!”

“You want your queen to be perfect, but even she can feel hatred and sorrow Let me show you!

You toss Yorick’s cloak into the air and the darkness forms into a ghastly figure: the Maiden of the Mist. Viego’s face contorts in horror as he watches the specter manifest, as though unable to believe what he’s seeing.

Viego: “It cannot be… But there is no doubt! I can feel her inside this… Creature! Isolde!?”

Maiden: “Ah, my king! Our king! You wrenched us from our slumber, now you would abandon us!? You said you wanted to be one… Then join us! Join us in eternity!”

The Maiden reaches out her hands as her, filling the air with her inhuman wails. A chord of darkness forms between her and Viego as the Maiden siphons his power away from him.

Viego: “No! Stop this! STOP IT!”

Vex: “What did you just do!?”

“Lucian, now your chance!”

“Lucian, get Senna!”

Lucian stares in disbelief at the scene before him a while long, but quickly shakes himself from his daze. As Viego struggles against the Maiden, Lucian makes for the pillar, blasting Senna free from her restraints. Senna falls to ground, but Lucian is quick to catch her.

Senna: “Ngh…”

Lucian: “Senna!”

Senna: “Lucian…?”

Lucian: “I’m here. I’ve got you.”

Senna rises to her feet, clutching her head. A look of visible confusion corsses her face as she scans the scene before her.

Senna: “What’s happening? Where are we? Is that… Viego?”

Viego continues to struggle against the Maiden’s pull, but to no avail. You see strands of light mingling with the darkness as the Maiden feasts, though a familiar shadow soon manifests behind her.

Vex: “Get off of him!”

Vex and her shadow sever the connection between Viego and the Maiden, causing both to cry out in pain. The Maiden soon reverts back into a cloak of darkness, falling unceremoniously onto the ground.

As the connection is severed, whisps of scatter all around you, darting about the ruins before finally embedding themselves into the fetters at Senna’s feet. One finds refuge within your Wayfinder, restoring the Relic’s light.

Viego: “No… NO! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!?”

Senna: “Just what is happening here, Lucian?”

Lucian struggles to think of an explanation, but before he can, the doll at Senna’s feet suddenly floats into the air and springs to life. In a flash of light, Gwen is standing beside her commanding officers, her form fully restored.

Gwen: “Goodness! I think I just had a most awful dream… Oh, hello Lucian! Senna! Rookie! And…”

Gwen frowns when she sees Viego and Vex.

Gwen: “Ah, it seems now is not the time for happy reunions!”

“Welcome back, Gwen!”

“Welcome back, Senna!”

Viego turns his gaze toward you, his eyes full of malice.

Viego: “You! You will pay for this, child!

Viego screams with rage and charges you, leveling his sword straight for your heart. You reach for your Relicstone shard, though it quickly becomes apparent that you won’t be able to grasp it time.

Senna: “Rookie! Look out!”

Finale 2/2

Just as it seems Viego’s sword is about to run you through, a swirling barrier of violet energy surrounds you. The blade of the Ruined King glances harmlessly off and Viego staggers back in surprise. Shen and the other Sentinels all appear manifest you, as well as those you set free from Viego’s control. The Eye of Twilight falls to the ground, nearly breathless.

Shen: “It seems… We were not… Too late.”

Akshan: “Indeed! Now, what is happening?”

“We’ve got Viego on the ropes!”

“Viego’s weakened! Now, let’s finish him!”

Vayne: “I’m not sure what you did, kid, but it looks like we can finally put this monster down once and for all!”

Viego: “Ngh… How dare you!?”

Senna: “Sentinels! Let’s wrap this up!”

Taking charges of the group once more, Senna directs each Sentinel’s efforts toward bringing down the Ruined King. Though weakened, Viego still holds a great deal of power at his disposal, conjuring swaths of Black Mist to keep you and your allies at bay. Despite your greater numbers, you can feel the exhaustion of the last several hours earing down on your, and your allies are clearly nearing their limits as well.

Suddenly, the Relicstone shard in your pocket flies from your grasp. You turn to see Senna standing behind you, her cannon now broken up in several different pieces lingering in the air before her. Your piece soon joins them as a web of radiance and darkness spreads between.

Senna: “I’ve got you!”

Energy courses through you as a wave of power washes over the battlefield, surrounding you and your allies in shimmering barriers. Viego, on the other hand, is thrown back into the grass, his armor breaking apart from the impact. He seems almost pathetic as he scrambles to his feet, desperately seeking a way to turn the tides in his favor.

Viego. “This cannot be… Our reunion was nearly at hand!”

“Admit it, Viego! You never really loved her! She was never anything more than a prize to you!”

“She may have loved you once, Viego, but not anymore! Not after what you’ve become!”

Viego: “Damn you!”

Vex: “Viego! Come on!”

All eyes turn to see Vex standing before another shadowy portal. Upon realizing that she’s been spotted, the yordle leaps through, not even daring to look back.

Lucian: “Don’t let him get away!”

Viego creates a Harrowed path along the ground as he sprints across the field, appearing and disappearing so frequently that it’s impossible to get a clean shot it. Ultimately, the Ruined King flees through the Vex’s gateway just as it closes, leaving you and your allies alone in the silent ruins of Camavor.

“We’ve gotta go after him!”

“Where did they go!?”

Lillia (if option 1 is picked): “But… But where did he go? Back to those dreadful Isles, maybe?”

Gangplank (if option 2 is picked): “Back to the Shadow Isles I’d wager, the slippery bastard.”

Shen: “My apologies… I would follow, but…”

Jayce: “Hey, don’t push yourself. I’m still not sure how this spirit stuff works yet, but it clearly took a lot out of you to get us here.”

Senna: “Nothing for it. For now, let’s gather up the fetters and get back to headquarters, or what’s left of it. We’ll discuss out next move there. Rookie, that Wayfinder still intact?”

“The Wayfinder is back online!”

“Good to go!”

Gwen and the other Sentinels gather up the fetters, though you quickly note that Yorick’s shadow cloak has vanished. Deciding not to dwell on it, you raise the Wayfinder and let its light carry you back to headquarters.

The sun shines on the remnants of the Sentinel outpost. Not a trace of Black Mist is to be seen anywhere, and as you look to the world map, you see that the Harrowing has receded back to the Shadow Isles.

Tryndamere: “It seems that things are returning to normal. Speaking of…”

The Hallowed Mist begins to dissipate from those you freed from Viego’s control, returning them to their usual selves.

“I guess the Wayfinder’s power only lasts for so long.”

“I guess those snazzy new looks were only temporary.”

Draven: “Eh, this is more Draven’s style anyway. I don’t need any of that Mist stuff show how awesome I am!”

Riven: “As if the Mist really makes a difference with you…”

Gwen: “So then… It seems we’ve won? We stopped Viego, gathered all the fetters, and drove back the Black Mist!”

Senna: “Well… Viego’s still out there, but without the power of the fetters, he won’t be able to go beyond the boundary of the Shadow Isles. For the time-being, I’d call this a victory.”

A wave of relief washes over you as you collapse onto the ground, exhaustion finally taking its toll. After all that transpired last night, you find yourself too excited to even properly celebrate, but you still take comfort in knowing that you’ve stopped the end of the world.

“So… What happens now?”

“What’s everyone’s next move?”

Lucian: “Well, seems to me like our fight ain’t over quite yet, and I’m lookin’ at a whole bunch of new Sentinel recruits. Whaddya say we get you all sworn in and-”

Tryndamere: “I’ll pass. Much as I’d love to run that Ruined King through with my blade, I’m needed back home. I… Have a lot of explaining to do when I get back to my wife.”

Senna: “Speaking of… Lucian, you wanna explain where you were when our base came under attack, and where this Shuriman came from?”

Akshan: “Ah, so you’re Senna? Lucian… You are a lucky devil.”

Lucian: “Heh… Yeah, lucky enough to be married to the most beautiful woman in the world.”

Senna glares at Lucian, unfazed by his flattery.

Lucian: “Uh, anyway! What about the rest of you?”

Draven: “Pass. I mean, I can TOTALLY get wanting Draven on your team, but that’s not how I roll. Besides, I gotta get back the arena for my triumphant return.”

Shyvana: “I must also return and ensure that the king is unharmed, as well as my allies in the Dargonguard.”

Lillia: “U-Um… I’m flattered by the offer, but… I’d much rather not go back to that awful place! That was terrifying!”

Viktor: “Though these Relicstones and fetters warrant further analysis, my primary concerns must be rebuilding my lab and beginning developing countermeasures toward future mind-altering attempts.”

Atreus: “My battle lies elsewhere. I must tame these embers that Pantheon left inside me to ensure they never rage out of control again.”

Gangplank: “Not interested. I’ve still got a city to reclaim, and a grudge to settle. Speakin’ of… Graves! Don’t think I’ve forgotten about you!”

Graves: “Uh oh. Guess that’s my cue to hit the road! Honestly, this hero business don’t really suit me anyway. Seein’ as my partner’s still nowhere to be seen, there ain’t much reason to stick around.”

Diana: “I, too, must depart. The Lunari need me, even if the Aspect within me has yet to fully heal.”

Shen: “Likewise, I must return and ensure that my brothers and sisters in the Kinkou are unharmed.”

Olaf: “Hmph. I still haven’t found my glorious death… But perhaps that’s fine. This will become another chapter in the glorious saga of Olaf! Now, I depart to find my next foe, and build my legend even higher!”

Rengar: “I, too, have a worthy foe to seek. The Ruined King is your prey, but mine still lurks somewhere in the jungle…”

“So that’s it? Everyone is just leaving?”

“So much for our army of Sentinels…”

Vayne: “I wouldn’t be so sure about that. This… Little adventure of ours has made one thing clear: there are monsters out there that Demacia is nowhere near ready to face on its own. I think I’ll take over that abandoned Sentinel base and see about boosting our numbers a bit. If the Mageseekers have a problem with it, well… I’ve never exactly played by the rules, anyway.”

Jayce: “Can’t say I’d consider this Sentinel thing a full-time gig, but after everything that’s happened, I can at least pitch in and help Ada and Dess out, from time to time. A hero’s gotta help however he can, after-all.”

Akshan: “Well said! Though Shadya’s killer remains at large, I would happy to lend you my assistance again, if and when you need me. It is what she would want from me, after-all.”

Riven: “I’m… I’m honestly not sure what’s next for me. I could use a little time to think things over, if that’s alright.”

Gwen: “And you can be certain that I’ll pitch in however I can! Where the Black Mist goes, the Hallowed Mist will be there to fend it off!”

Lucian: “Heh… Well, we’ve still got a long way to go toward rebuildin’ the Sentinels, but it’s a start.”

Senna: “That’s right. We’ll get this base repaired and find a safe place to store the fetters, in case Viego ever tries to go for them again. On that note… Rookie, come here.”

You rise to your feet and approach the world map uncertainly, though Senna’s smile puts you at ease.

Senna: “Now that I think about it, you never did get properly sworn in, did you? I think it’s about time we make it official, and start your training in earnest. Repeat after me.”

Senna guides you through the ancient oath, carving the words deep into your soul. You can almost feel the Wayfinder thrumming in response as you take your first steps toward becoming a true Sentinel of Light.

I swear by the light of the ancients...

I will not run from darkness. I will light the way with a steadfast heart, And face each shadow with a ready weapon As a beacon, a warrior, a Sentinel, I defend myself, my fellows, and my world. May we stand together in the light, or fall in darkness.

Fight bravely and remember your oath.

[youremyonlyhope]

Fragments

AKA: LOL you thought Torchwood was what made all of these characters so broken? Ha, sad backstory time.

Here I go. Avoided this episode for months. And I’m watching it. While babysitting. The kid is asleep, or she’s supposed to be (she already came back into the living room once saying “I just remembered that I hate sleeping”). I hope I don’t cry. And I hope I finish before her mom gets home.

Owen and Tosh walking super close together. So cute. I can’t believe that this the last mission they ever get to go on as a team together... I’ve never thought of this scene this way. Ugh stupid Torchwood. Can’t my babies have a happy moment ever? Written by Chris Chibnall. I love you, but I hate you. 1392 deaths earlier. Amazing. Jack, how I love you. Flesh wound. I understood that reference. Glad to know Monty Python is still appreciated in the 51st century. My baby Jack. Being experimented on and still making innuendos. I love that they still have the same cells. Ok for a second I was like “Oh my god. What if when they used the Torchwood set in The Next Doctor, that was implying that it was the future Torchwood location!” Then I remembered that that episode took place in London. She’s way too happy about killing that blowfish. I nearly forgot that Faith-Not-Faith was this in this episode too. I love that montage of technology improving as he stayed at Torchwood. Poor Jack. He waited forever. Also, was he never the leader before 2000? Were there special rules like “Whatever you do, don’t let Jack become the leader” given to every new leader of Torchwood? Passed down team to team for 100 years? God and poor Jack is sprayed with the blood. It’s like, how can we possibly make Jack’s backstory even sadder? Oh. I know. This. Chibnall, I hate you. OH MY GOD I FORGOT ABOUT RHYS FREAKING OUT OVER JACK COMING BACK TO LIFE.

And now we go to Tosh. Tosh, my angel. You can tell she’s not an expert at any of this yet since she barely waited until he was gone and she’s getting her fingerprints all over the keyboard. But my girl has thought this through, tracked the patterns of the camera, the routine of the security guard, she’s so smart. Ministry of Defense. My girl commits the highest treason, yet all it does it make me love her more. How did she and her mother even get into this mess? The shot of her just standing and feeling the sun on her face hits me the hardest. OK BUT WHY IS UNIT ALLOWED TO BE SO INHUMANE? EVEN PRISONERS HAVE BASIC RIGHTS. I love that this shows us that when Jack said in Adam “I saw it” he wasn’t just saying it. He really did see that she was special. I don’t know when it hit me that Tosh’s five years of working for Jack were almost up. It hit me like a ton of bricks just now, but I think I noticed it before. Would she have stayed after? She seemed to really love it at Torchwood. But she was kind of forced to work there. Either work for Jack for 5 years or be in prison forever. It was part of a deal... and the deal was almost up. Tosh was almost free if she decided she wanted to be free. “Limited contact only. You can send her postcards.” Obviously he lightened up on that since Tosh nearly went to her grandfather’s birthday party before she was sucked into 1941. I love that Rhys volunteered to stay with Tosh.

And now for Ianto. It’s crazy to think that he was barely there for 2 years at this point. Only joined just before Gwen. Ianto in jeans... almost feels wrong. See, Ianto wasn’t in love with Jack at this point, Ianto didn’t even consider the possibility of being bisexual at this point (even in Children of Earth he says “It’s him. It’s just him.”) so obviously he’s never been attracted to a man yet since it seems Jack was probably the only one, and he was in a relationship with Lisa (though she’s a cyberwoman at this point). But Ianto flirted with Jack. He did his research. Knew Jack is the biggest flirt in the universe. Knew that it would get his attention. Wow. Look how that backfired on him. Wait, what’s the opposite of backfire? Since it was a good thing that it backfired? I was about to be like “Jack you don’t know if he poisoned the coffee or what.” then I remembered Jack wouldn’t die even if it was poisoned. “See if you can find the other half-” THEY FOUND THE FIRST GAUNTLET IN WATER RIGHT? WAS IT A RIVER OR A RESERVOIR? I DON’T REMEMBER. WAS HE ASKING SUZIE TO SEE IF SHE COULD FIND THE OTHER GAUNTLET? Ianto: *Sees Myfanwy* “Nope.” I LAUGHED OUT LOUD. I FORGOT THAT. LITERALLY ME DURING ANY SITUATION. Oh the 51st century pheromones. And the issues surrounding them. Jack was there when the asteroid killed the dinosaurs. Ok. I forgot that Myfanwy flies Jack around the warehouse. Oh, 2008 animation. Haven’t had to say said that in a while.

Oh god my poor baby Owen. Here we go. My baby. Happy and in love. We never see this again. I hate everything. Katie was very lucky she had a doctor for a fiance. But that stupid alien was too aggressive. IT’S HITTING ME THAT OWEN’S LIKE 22/23 RIGHT NOW. THE SAME AGE AS ME. My. Poor. Baby. I can’t imagine going through that at where I am in life (but also, I’m not a doctor who excelled like Owen did) That door isn’t exactly airtight. Never really got why Owen didn’t just die then too. I guess MAYBE you could argue it had already started to disperse by the time it hit the door. Whatever. Also not sure how I feel about Owen’s striped suit with the striped shirt underneath... but I might just be procrastinating continuing to watch this episode. Jack could have been a whole lot more sensitive about this whole thing. I mean, there’s not much you can do in that situation, but he could have been a bit more sensitive. Oh my poor Owen. Jack just takes it because he knows he kind of deserves it. Did they really have to not let Owen in on it though? Make him look crazy? They could have at least said “This was an alien. We have to cover up the deaths. I’m sorry.” instead of covering it up and making Owen think he’s losing his mind too. God, Owen must have thought he was developing something similar to what Katie had. I love that they put the Doctor’s hand back in the Hub set. Jack telling Owen that maybe at Torchwood he can save enough lives. HA. The whale, Diane, that old collector dude, himself. That’s just the tip of the iceberg. He can’t. Especially not himself, even though Jack promised he would save him (and didn’t. TWICE). And it’s the worst.

I love that Owen saw Tosh and was just immediately worried. The kid’s mom came home and I had to pause but now I’m home. John makes it seem like all he is is just a jealous ex-boyfriend. And at this point I hate him for it.

This episode is not as painful as I remember. Which is honestly shocking.

I love that every member of Torchwood joined because they did something that impressed Jack, usually involving tracking Jack down in some way. Tosh was just plain impressive, Owen was impressive and tracked him down, Ianto tracked him down and had experience, and Gwen tracked him down and brought a new perspective. I wish we could have found out how Suzie was sucked into this.

And the fact that Tosh was the first one he recruited, and would end up dying in his arms, just hurts. That he saved her, that their deal was almost up (if not already up) and she could have the choice to leave with a clear record, only for her to die in his arms. Wow. Torchwood literally is the most painful show ever. It just hurts me.

Now to watch Blind Wave’s review of the episode. And then finally force myself to watch Exit Wounds sometime in the next week.

[anouchard]

"Probably".

PSA: @jonnywaistcoat just threatened to kill Gwen off because I kept punning in the @macguffinandco stream, so if Gwen just ... disappears, please know that I am sorry, I love her, I have only myself to blame, and I went down laughing.