#I FEEL LIKE I COULD LEAP TO THE NEXT GALAXY

[sammrz320]

MAJOR SPOILERS BELOW:

MY FRIENDS, MY FRIENDS. IT IS TIME TO REJOICE!!!

WE FINALLY GOT IT!!!

WE ACTUALLY GOT A HUG AND HOPE!!!

[summer-nights19]

HELLO!! i saw your tokyo debunker fic requests posts, may i request some fluff with jin, rui, or jiro ?? Bonus if it involves a date, flowers, or a kiss that is NOT on the lips ♡

Thank you for the request, Anon. It's so cute <3

Since he's my favourite of the three, I went ahead and did Jin

Roses and stars

After a very long first day with Vagastrom, you'd finally made it back to your dorm. Honestly, the entire thing had been exhausting - the Vagastrom ghouls were difficult to work with and also didn't seem to like you very much - so you couldn't wait to curl up in your bed and sleep. As you moved to open the door to your dilapidated dormitory, you felt your foot kick something on the floor. Startled, you looked down at the object, your curiosity rising.

Someone had left a large bunch of white roses by your doorstep, along with a little note. Feeling your heart flutter in your chest and your face heat up, you picked up the roses and went upstairs to put them in an old vase by your bed before you finally looked at the note, which was written in a neat, slanted cursive.

Dear MC

I'm taking you out tomorrow afternoon after you come back from Vagastrom. I'll pick you up from your dorm.

Jin

Your heart leaped when you saw the name on the page. Sure, you'd had a crush on the Frostheim captain ever since you'd first worked with him, but you'd never in a million years dreamt that he might feel the same way.

"Stop it, MC. It's probably not that kind of outing. He definitely just wants to discuss Darkwick business, " you told yourself firmly, but, despite this, you couldn't help but hope that your initial instinct was right. Eventually, you let your exhaustion take over and fell asleep while still clutching the note, your dreams haunted by a certain tall, blue eyed man.

***

After finishing up at Vagastrom the next day, you'd headed straight to your dorm. The closer you got, the more violent the butterflies in your stomach became and the more nervous you felt. You hadn't had time to pick out a decent outfit to wear, so you'd have to rush getting changed. Not that it mattered, because it definitely wasn't that kind of outing, right ?

As soon as you got to your dorm, you flung yourself into the door and changed at lighting speed. Just as you were finishing up with your hair, you heard a knock on the front door. Taking a deep breath, you went to answer it.

"Hi Jin," you smiled at the man in front of you, who looked as devastatingly handsome as ever. As he looked back down on you with his cold blue eyes, the hint of a smile played on Jin's lips as well. Without hesitation, he took your hand in his own and led you out of your dorm. You looked away, blushing. His hand was a lot larger than yours and unexpectedly warm.

"So... what did you need to discuss with me today ?" you asked, a part of you still clinging on to the hope that this wouldn't be about business matters. Jin sighed, rolling his eyes slightly.

"I'm taking you out, Y/N. I thought the flowers would have made that clear,"

You swore your heart rate tripled at hearing his response.

"Yes, sorry ... I just wanted do be sure. They were lovely, by the way, so thank you. Where are we going ? I don't have an R&R permit for today I'm afraid..."

Jin smirked at you and you felt a knot forming in your stomach.

"It's a surprise. And don't worry about the R&R permit, I have handled everything,"

As you walked the rest of the way to the Galaxy Express in companionable silence, you wondered what Jin could possibly have in mind. Knowing him, it was probably something fancy and expensive, like dinner at a fancy restaurant or a beach trip on his private yacht. When you finally got on the train, you sat next to each other, your leg brushing against his. He still hadn't let go of your hand., and his eyes were feasting on you as if you were a three course meal.

"Look outside," Jin gently shifted your chin towards the window in front of you, and what you saw nearly took your breath away. You were right in the middle of an endless field full of white roses just like the ones he'd gifted you. All around you, silver stars twinkled all over the purple sky, casting an almost azure glow on the roses.

"It's beautiful," you whispered, still awestruck by what you saw. "I didn't even know the Galaxy Express stopped here,"

"That's because it normally doesn't, but I bribed the conductor so he'd take us here today," Jin explained, looking smug. Your delighted look pleased him more than he wanted to admit. The Galaxy Express stopped in the middle of the field, and Jin led you out to the middle of the field, which was completely isolated. It was like you were the only two people in the world.

With a serious expression on his face, Jin let go of your hand and produced a small velvet box from the pocket of his expensive coat, which he handed to you.

"MC ... ever since you started at Darkwick academy, you have invaded every corner of my mind, and, no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't stop myself from growing closer to you. Now, I simply don't want to - you are thr only person who makes me feel this way. Be my partner, MC,"

You met Jin's serious gaze with bright eyes and a smile that lit up your entire face, which he found even more beautiful than all the roses in the surrounding field.

"Jin, there's no one more precious to me than you. Of course I'll be your partner,". As soon as you replied, Jin smiled at you, any trace of coldness gone from his eyes. Silently, he opened the box he'd given you and took out a sapphire pendant, which he fastened around your neck. Then, he leaned in and gave you a gentle kiss on the cheek, his lips cold and smooth, before taking your hand in his own again and guiding you to sit down on the grass in the middle of the roses.

You didn't know how much time you'd spent like that, with his arm wrapped around your waist and your head on his shoulder as you talked and watched the stars - all you knew is that it had felt like heaven.

Masterlist

[bitterbutblue]

firefly <3

i'll come closer to you slowly, very slowly ☆ firefly x fem!reader

~ WAAA this one was the second most popular one in the votes! unfortunately i have had to make some changes (literally the entire plot and idea) because i have recently began yearning again and its such a crazy feeling im gonna write abt it.. anyways this is a short one but i got a ROBIN FIC COMING.... YAYYY ROBIN ~

song: very, slowly - bibi ~

── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ────

It's suffocating when she smiles. But it's also soft like a song on the train on your way home. You could only sit next to her as she hums her favourite song by Robin. At this point you could recite every lyric and every note even though you've never actively listened to that song yourself.

"Want one?"

You snap out of your train of thought, looking up at her. You could feel your heart leap when her eyes meet yours because who knew you could fit the entire galaxy, the sun's rise and it's setting in eyes and nothing but eyes. She holds up a small cake, tilting her head to the side like a lost puppy and you want to hold her so close she becomes part of you. She's already a part of you though, you knew that. You know that from now on no matter what happens, some part of you will always end up going back to her. Some part of you will always see the Dream's Edge and think about purple eyes and sunsets. Some part of you will see oak roll cakes and think of Robin's top song on a Monday evening.

"I got one for you."

The cake is by no means your favourite. It's rough, tastes like wood and barely sweet enough to be a cake. It's more like cardboard, but you'd never tell her that. You just take it anyways because, well, who were you to refuse her? Her smile already has you feeling so weak in the knees and you know if she asked you to do anything you'd agree immediately.

"Thanks."

You can't control the small tremble in your voice. You are just hoping the smile you shot her doesn't seem too forced.

"Hey!"

The familiar voice has your heart stuttering in your chest as it falls down the familiar chasm. The golden eyed girl runs up to you two excitedly and you see the way she straightens up, the way her eyes brighten as she shows the smile she only ever shows when she's around.

"Stelle!"

You can only watch as she gets onto her feet, walking over to Stelle to engage in a conversation that she seems to be more interested in than with any conversation she's ever held with you. It sucks. It hurts and you knew you had no chance to begin with from the moment you laid eyes on her but you couldn't fight the urge that is wanting to get closer to her. Wanting to know her and be someone to her.

You knew you'd never be anyone to her.

Who are you without her, though?

She finds herself lost in the golden girl's eyes. The golden girl who you know you could only stare at from afar, wishing you could be maybe just half of who she is so that she could finally look at you.

For once, maybe.

Just once, in the way you want her to look at you.

You hate the smile she smiles at you is nothing like the smile she smiles at Stelle. You hate how she always brightens up in ways she never brightens up around you. You hate, not her, but yourself. You knew you would get hurt getting into it, but like a drug you go back to her because you can't stay away from her warmth.

When Stelle touches her shoulder, you wonder how warmth can somehow feel so cold.

"Firefly?"

"Hm?"

She smiles at you but it's muted. You can tell it's muted because you've memorised all her smiles and movements. You know what each little wrinkle of her nose means and what each little twitch of her lips means. Now you can only watch as she falls in love with someone who you could never be.

"I need to go."

"Oh!"

She smiles.

"I'll see you later?"

Stay away, would you?

For your own good.

"I'll text you."

But you can't.

You could only walk away, fully aware of how you could now disappear and she really wouldn't mind because all she could focus on was the golden girl who you hated but also loved. You hate her because she is everything you want to be. You love her because she is everything you want to be.

She would never focus on you as much.

Fuck.

But you knew you'd always go back.

[breakfastteatime]

Today's Fallen Order request is 'Uncharted' for @abigailspinach

“We’re lost,” Greez declares.

“We’re not lost,” Cere tells him.

They keep walking through the trees, dead leaves crunching underfoot. The air is chilly with winter’s approach, the promise of frost in the air. It’s nice to get out after days stuck on the ship. At least that’s what the others tell Greez. Personally, he likes being stuck on the ship. All of Cere’s comments about him getting weird pass over his head. He likes hulls, bulkheads, walls, doors… Is it his fault his species has a history of living in underground tunnels? Some facts of nature go deep, deep down into the marrow of someone. Besides, all this hiking and climbing and mud… it’s just… he’s not…

“We’re lost!” Greez wails.

“We’re not lost!” Cere, Cal, Merrin shout at him.

BD just does that disappointed warble sound he makes when someone’s really getting on his circuits.

Greez doesn’t buy it from any of them. “Oh, we’re not? Can any of you find us on a map?”

BD peeps that he can because he is the map.

Cal snorts.

Greez is ready for them both. “Now, BD, I am not one to question your expertise in cartography.”

Cal coughs.

“However, don’t you make maps as you go, meaning you don’t know if we’re anywhere near the place Cere thinks we’re headed to?”

BD tips his head to one side, conceding the point.

“Unmapped just means uncharted,” Cal says, entirely too chipper for someone who might never see the galaxy beyond these woods ever again. “Relax, Greez, breathe in that fresh air and try to enjoy yourself. We’ve got the camping gear, you have a big ol’ fire to build in your future, and everything will be fine.”

“I thought we were looking for some huge structure like those temples on Zeffo. How come we haven’t found it yet?”

“Because this is an unpopulated moon and we had to land the ship some distance from our destination,” Merrin tells him. “You are impatient, Greez. Walking is not as fast as flying, especially for you.”

“We’re almost there,” Cere calls from the front. “I can feel it.”

Cere’s certainty gives Greez hope. “You could have told me that Force thing of yours tells you stuff like that.”

“Oh, no, it’s not the Force.”

Hope dwindles. “Then how – ”

Cal takes pity on him. “We’re going uphill. Haven’t you noticed? The ruins are on top of this hill.”

BD lets out a long string of beeps.

“BD says you can do it. In fact, he thinks you could probably beat him to the top of the hill. His legs are even shorter than yours after all.”

As if to prove a point, BD hops down, skuttles to Greez and hops from one foot to another, still babbling.

“He promises he won’t use his thrusters,” Cal translates.

“Fine, BD, let’s go.”

Greez makes it to the top of the hill ahead of anyone. As promised, there are ruins – if piles of rock can be called ruins. BD disappears, the light of his scanner showing where he is. Cal leaps and bounds off to join him, Cere goes at a (barely) more restrained pace, and Merrin teleports a few times before joining Greez. “I would like to help with the fire,” she says.

“Good,” Greez says, still trying to catch his breath. “Because I think I need a nap after all this fresh air.”

Instead of sleeping, Greez shows Merrin the fine art of building a fire you can cook on without using magick, and by the time their Jedi and droid return, Greez and Merrin have the flames roaring, the meat cooking and the tea brewing. The stars come out, the ruins protecting their little campsite from the worst of the hilltop breeze.

Cal drops down next to Greez. “Not bad for an uncharted forest moon, huh?”

Greez pours the hot chocolate into four mugs. “Not bad at all.”

[tcwmatchmakingau]

Date Night Pt 1

Pairing: Rex x f!Reader

Rating: SFW

Warnings: Just fluff, snogging is as far as it goes.

W/C: 3,300 (And my ficlet phase has passed). 

Summary: Captain Rex of the 501st Legion led men into numerous battles. He had fought by the side of one of the galaxy’s greatest Jedi and received commendation from the Republic’s top leadership. And nothing terrified him more than the newest challenge Anakin Skywalker laid at his feet ... a date.

A/N: This was inspired by D's lovely ask as I was trapped in the airport about a double date with Rex and Cody. Here's the Rex chapter, featuring Cody, who will be up next.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Rex, you know I’d do anything for you. But this?”

Rex knew this would likely be the outcome, but he wasn’t admitting defeat just yet.

“Please Cody? I just … I have to go, but I just can’t get myself to go alone.”

His closest brother and commanding officer sat across from him in the mess hall of the Coruscant barracks, the 501st and 212th being on shore leave. All units not engaged in relief missions or suppressing the remaining Seppie forces were actually on leave, meaning Rex felt himself almost whispering, not wanting the wrong ears to overhear their conversation in the crowded room.

He’d never live it down if Torrent Company especially got wind that he was considering a trip to the matchmaker set up specifically for clones.

“You don’t have to go, though. It’s not mandatory. I know the transition to peace time is going to be tough, but they’re not forcing us into civvie life just yet.”

“It’s not that. General Skywalker is … insisting.”

“He can’t command you to go on a date. Just tell him no.”

“I can’t, Cody! You know the face he makes when you tell him no.”

“Then look the other way.”

Rex doesn’t have a rebuttal. Strictly speaking, Cody is right. But …

“Unless you actually want to go?” his brother nudges.

“I …” Rex paused, holding still as a statue for a moment until he released his breath in a huff. “Ever since his relationship with the Senator came out, Skywalker has changed. He’s lighter, happier. And I can’t help but wonder what that feels like. It was never in the cards for us before. I know some had it, like Cut, but I could never abandon my duty. Now that I don’t have to … I don’t know. What if Anakin is right?”

Cody smiles at him warmly before answering simply, “Then you should go.”

Rex levels his friend with a blank stare. They both knew that Rex would never take this leap without a wingman.

“FINE I WILL GO WITH YOU.”

------------------------------------------X------------------------------------------

The office was nicer than he had imagined. Not that he thought it would be a dump, but it would seem his anxiety colored his expectations.

Cody sat by his side, the pair having already filled out the required paperwork digitally. He thanked his brother again for coming with him and though the only response was a dry side eye, Rex knew Cody understood what this meant to him.

The door behind them opened, and both men jumped to attention.

“At ease, gentlemen. You’re off duty, remember?”

A woman walked past to take a seat opposite the desk from them as they settled back into their own seats. Her casual attire betrayed the slightly impressive decor of the top-level office, but the warmth she exuded made it clear she belonged here.

“I’m Yen, and I’ll be the matchmaker assigned to you both,” she said, reaching across to shake both their hands. “Now, I’ve reviewed your applications and I have a few potential matches in mind, but first I want to hear from you, your expectations — both of this first date and overall.”

Rex turned to look to Cody, defaulting to letting his CO answer first, only to see his brother returning the expectant look. So, he started, laying it all on the table and earning a few laughs from the other trooper.

Cody followed suit, his own answer much shorter, though it’s a testament to the professional that she was able to even get as much out of the Marshal Commander as possible.

“Okay, well, I believe I now have everything I need. I’ll send over one profile each to avoid overwhelming you both, and if you’re amenable, I’ll set up the time and place and comm that over,” Yen confirmed.

Rex appreciated her approach, calm yet confident. He was still hesitant about stepping this far out of his comfort zone, but if she was leading the way, he could at least follow.

“Now, I do have to warn you that while I understand the appeal of a double date, I’ve found it can often lead to … unnecessary problems. I can see if the partners I have in mind would be open to going to the same venue, but I strongly recommend focusing on your date and not spending time as a group.”

“Problems?” This time, it was Cody who spoke up.

“Yes, assigned dates wanting to switch has been known to happen, which just creates bad feelings all around. Or people tend to focus more on their friend since that’s familiar and end up alienating their dates. I’ve found that outcome more common with troopers.”

The two clones share a look, and when Rex turns back to Yen, a knowing smile graces her face.

“Well, this is your area of expertise. We’ll play this your way.”

---------------------------------------X--------------------------------------------

A week later, Rex watched Cody walk to the floor with his date, trying to push down his annoyance over the fact that you still hadn’t appeared.

If he was being completely fair, you weren’t late. But he was already second guessing himself and each moment he stood there, on the edge of the room unsure of what to do with his hands, was another moment adding to his anxiety.

Rex was just about at his limit when the door slammed open. The woman in the threshold peered into the crowd, scouting as if she expected danger rather than dancing to greet her.

And suddenly, his nerves got better and worse.

It was you. He recognized you from the profile image Yen had sent him. You hadn’t stood him up and left him looking a fool. But he had a feeling he’d act like one because stars above he had never seen any creature quite as lovely. What the kark was he supposed to say to someone so pretty?

While Skywalker seemed to revel in going into situations blind, Rex usually did everything to avoid it. But he didn’t plan for this. Your holo was taken by a buffoon since clearly it did not do you justice.

Absently, Rex realized he should probably introduce himself. But he decided taking advantage of this opportunity to gather intel was the smarter option.

You weren’t timid so much as cautious in your movements as you slowly made your way through the room, clearly looking for someone but oddly insistent on not making eye contact, quickly looking away once people noticed your staring.

Finally, you turned and caught his eye across the room, looking away just as quickly. In only took a moment before you snuck another glance, but this time, you kept eye contact and tilted your head in question. Nothing could stop him from smiling softly at the gesture as he gave a quick, efficient nod. You sported a matching one as you made your way through the crowd to him.

“Are you Rex?”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

You giggled, and it was so sweet he almost missed what you said. “Do I look that old?”

Shock flooded Rex like ice water. “Huh? N-No, you don’t. I mean, not that that’s bad. But you definitely don’t. You look lovely. Not that old isn’t lovely, but I, uh,” he floundered, trying to understand what just happened.

Your eyes grew wide as plates as you raised your hands, waiving them in front of you frantically. “Ah, no, don’t worry about it! I was just teasing since you said ‘ma’am’ and I’ve never been called that before and in fact the only people who’ve been called ma’am, at least that I’ve heard, have been older, so that was the first thing that came to mind and …”  

Rex had never heard anyone speak that fast. He was impressed you had enough breath for it, but your rambling made your abrupt stop into pure silence jarring.

“Sorry, I was trying to be clever but I’m a bit too nervous for that, it seems.” You looked up at him but stopped just shy of actually catching his gaze. He wasn’t sure if that or the way you bit the corner of your lip as you offered a sheepish smile was more endearing.

“Please don’t apologize. I’m a bit out of my depth here, too.”

Rex had never and likely would never understand the Force as the Jedi talk about it. But as you shared a small, understanding smile with him, he swore he could feel something shift. It was significant, even if he couldn’t understand why.

“Well then, since neither of us seem to be doing too well with conversation, want to try dancing?”

“I doubt that’ll go better on my end, but let’s give it a try,” he says lightly, holding out a hand to allow you to pass.

You led the way to the dance floor, and his heart stuttered when you turned, looking up at him expectantly with bright eyes. He was only half listening to the instructor, just enough to get the gist of what to do. The rest of his attention was firmly occupied with getting lost in how you looked at him.

You looked at him like he was someone worth staring at.

Karabast, I’m in trouble.

“Ready?” You ask, sweet but pushy, nudging him out of his stupor.

“Uh, yeah,” Rex nods, stepping closer and taking hold of your hands. They were cold in his, so he held them just a bit tighter.

Fortunately, the class was geared for beginners, so the instructor started with basic footwork which solved one problem of his – he could focus on his feet instead of trying not to stare at you like a creep.

At least, for a bit. Damn his enhanced training; the steps were barely a challenge, leaving him looking down unnecessarily, unwilling to look up just yet but also aware that the longer he looked down the more awkward it was.

Why was dancing at 79s hard but this was too easy? Maybe it was his brothers’ fault. Yeah, that had to be it. They complicated everything else, why would dancing be different?

“I’m glad they’re really breaking down the basics. I usually have two left feet,” you offered, and it felt like relief in the midst of battle washing over him.

“Same. I’m not usually much of a dancer,” Rex replied, beyond grateful that he wouldn’t have to rely on one of the awful pickup lines Jesse had insisted on teaching him when word inevitably got around what he would be up to tonight.

“Oh? Then what made you choose dance lessons for tonight?”

“I, uh …” He hesitated. The truth was it was an option that Cody was open to and both Boil and Fives insisted it was the best idea. “Honestly, my brothers talked me into it. Said it would strike the right mood.”

“The right mood?”

“N-not like that! Well, actually, I’m sure Fives meant exactly that. But that’s not what I mean. I mean —”

“It’s OK, Rex.” He should be more upset that you’re laughing at him, but there’s no malice in your eyes as they smile along with your lips. “I know what you mean. It’s fun, but easy enough that we can talk.”

“Not sure I’m doing so well with that second part,” he grumbled.

“I’ve got no complaints,” you reassure with a soft squeeze to his hands. “Besides, I’m very much enjoying being on this side.”

“This side?”

“Oh yeah. I’m usually the one tripping over my tongue meeting new people. It’s not just my feet — I’m clumsy all over,” you proclaim almost proudly, earning a chuckle from him.

“You don’t seem clumsy to me.”

“You’re sweet, but I’m literally holding onto you right now. Hard to be clumsy with support, though I do like to consider myself an overachiever.”

Rex let out what was probably his first genuine laugh since starting this whole endeavor. “Well, I’m happy to act as support as long as needed.”

Your lips twitch to the side, and if not for the mischievous spark in your eyes — a sight Rex had learned from his men usually meant nothing but trouble — he’d assume you were upset. Confused, he waited for you to continue.

“Happy to act as support? Are you sure?”

Everything about your tone is screaming that he’s out of his depths. You’re plotting something, that much is clear, and he’s not sure what. And he certainly can’t reprimand you the way he does wayward troopers.

Still, nothing to do but jump in at this point.

“Yes …?”

Your smile broke free from the tight, wry curve of your lips to engulf your entire face.

“In that case …” You stepped closer to him, pulling your joined hands behind your back, forcing yourself into his arms. Chills slid up his arms along with your touch as your hands finally settled on his shoulders, leaving his splayed out against the expanse of your back. “Better that we dance like this. More secure, you know.”

The boys would often tease Rex for how easily he would flush. It was something he cursed his whole life, always envious of Cody for his incredible composure. Now, however, despite feeling the heat in his own cheeks, the sight of your eyes refusing to settle on one place, least of all him, and the awkward shift in your stance, he understood the teasing.

You were adorable when flustered.

But more than he enjoyed seeing you worked up, he desperately wanted you to be comfortable with him. And he wanted to show his appreciation that you took the first leap of faith. So he stepped just a little further into your space, slightly tightening his hold on you so you could feel him support you.

“Sure. Just tell me if you want me to let go.”

“I don’t think that’s gonna happen.”

It wouldn’t be right to say conversation flowed. There were still awkward bumps and turns. But you were gracious about them, and honestly guilty of a few yourself, which helped Rex lower his guard even more.

It didn’t hurt that you seemed to pick up the footwork just as easily as he did, letting him lead you around the floor easier than he anticipated so he could fully indulge in how you pressed ever so lightly against him as you lead the conversation.

It was mostly small talk, getting to know you staples. But you never made him feel awkward or like you didn’t care for his answer.

In fact, he had never felt so tall before being the center of your attention.

Sooner than he realized, the class ended, and the dancers began dispersing. A quick scan of the room made clear that Cody and his date already cleared out. When, he wasn’t sure. But it left Rex standing in the middle of the floor with you in his arms, looking at him expectantly … and he had no clue what to do.

All he knew was he wasn’t quite ready to let you go.

“Do you walk home?” he asked, immediately realizing what he had said and groaning. “No, not that. I mean, do you mind if I walk you home?”

You laughed at him, but again, it was a soft thing without a trace of mockery. “I’d love that, thank you.”

If asked right then, Rex would say that laugh was his favorite sound. But he didn’t let that thought linger too long.

You looped your arm through his and laid your opposite hand on top, taking him aback with how comfortable you seemed around him even without the pretense of dancing. Though you stopped right at the line of too forward, a courtesy he was grateful for.

And it appeared a more strategic choice than he first gave you credit for. With your arms woven through his, you were able to lead the way and keep pace with him easier. You walked to the inter-level lift and rode it down a few levels to more modest apartments before meandering through the streets for a few blocks, chatting softly the whole time.

“This is me.” You waved your hand absently to the building behind you as you turned to face him.  You were looking at him like that again, like he was the only thing in this galaxy worth looking at. If he wasn’t careful, Rex could easily grow addicted to that look. “I had a really nice night. Thank you, Rex.”

“No thanks needed, mesh’la,” Rex said softly, hearing the endearment slip in before he really registered it. It fit, though, and he was willing to bet you didn’t speak Mando’a. “I had a good time, too.”

He felt like time itself was suspended. Like the two of you existed within a ray shield and nothing outside mattered. He felt himself pulled closer to you until he was standing with barely an inch between you. Glancing past your eyes for just a moment, he felt his breath catch at the sight of your chest just missing brushing his as you take heavy breaths.

Usually, clarity felt cold when it washed over him. This, however, was warm, fueling his courage just as much as the realization that you could feel the gravitational pull between you as well.

“Can I kiss you?” he whispered, bolder than he felt as he leaned down but still not trusting his voice as he invaded your space and reveled in the proximity, eyes constantly searching for any sign of hesitation.

There never was one. You tilted your head back, bringing your plush lips almost up to his.

“Please.”

It was the sweet, needy, breathlessness of your plea that made Rex vow then and there to do anything to hear you beg for his kisses again.

It was the soft give of your lips, the insistent yet gentle pressure you applied and the succulent yet swift swipe of your tongue against his that made him vow to give them to you as often as you asked.

Gods above, there was nothing so wonderful in that moment as your kiss. It wasn’t hot and heavy, as his past experiences had been; those one-night stands nothing more than moments of stolen pleasure speaking only to present need.

This was the opposite, chaste in all but promise, speaking without words of your passionate intentions.

You pulled away, and he should have let you go. Rex had always prided himself on being respectful, doing the right thing. And yet, the only thing that felt right was to chase your lips with his, looping his arm around your waist to pull you in closer.

Reason eventually won out, as it always did for him. Keeping his hold on you, Rex pulled back and rested his forehead against yours. “Sorry.” His breathing was heavier than expected, and he questioned if his conditioning was really lacking, or if your kisses would always steal his breath. “Got a little carried away.”

You shook your head against his, and only then did he realize you had tangled your hands in his jacket, fisting in the fabric tightly. He couldn’t pull away without applying some force, and that knowledge buzzed pleasantly through him.

“No you didn’t. Not that I didn’t want, anyway.”

A worry line appeared on your forehead as you turned to glance at your front door over your shoulder. Your lips pursed, and while he wouldn’t claim to know you well, he could hazard a guess to your conundrum.

Gently, Rex lifted a hand to turn your face back to him before pressing a soft kiss to your forehead. He wasn’t sure, but he could swear he heard you sigh.

“Goodnight, mesh’la,” he offered, and to his relief, he saw you relax. You stepped back, out of his arms, and he was surprised by how much he didn’t like that. “I’ll comm you tomorrow?”

Tomorrow couldn’t come soon enough if that’s how you would smile for him every time. “Yeah, I’d like that. Goodnight, Rex.”

Captain Rex of the 501st Legion led men into numerous battles. He had fought by the side of one of the galaxy’s greatest Jedi and received commendation from the Republic’s top leadership.

But no victory had ever felt as good as walking away from your apartment that night, one successful date under his belt and hopefully many more with you on the horizon.

[babygirlispunk]

Clandestine

Chapter 1: The Marchioness

Masterlist ✧ Next

Pairing: Din Djarin X Mandalorian!f!Reader

Summary: Din Djarin and Bo-Katan Kryze, who have been on the search for the scattered Mandalorians of the galaxy in hopes of reuniting and taking back Mandalore, find your Clan. An old, dark and familial history with Bo causes problems with their mission but you peak an interest in the saber wielding Mando and his stoic demeanour that could lead to conflicts with your morale and your clan. (diverges from S3:EP5/AU)

Word Count: 4k

Chapter Content: 18+, violence, mentions of blood, use of a moniker, fighting, blink and you miss it PTSD, erotic asphyxiation.

Children giggle and laugh as they run past, nearly bumping you and knocking the basket you're holding with the fresh food you have purchased from the market. One of the children, a little girl, notices the produce on the ground and decides to help. You bend down to grab your things and watch as she struggles to pick up the individual berries but she's proud of herself as she gives the handful back to you with a big cheesy grin.

"Thank you kind girl, your Mum must be proud of the gracious young lady you are you." You say sweetly.

Immediately her smile drops and her hands loosen as a few berries fall back to the ground. You notice a few tears well up in her eyes, "What's wrong little one? Was it what I said?".

"I am an orphan of Alderaan, my mother died there." She slowly pours the remaining berries back into your basket staring at her slightly stained fingers, you notice her solemn face. "I was here with my father when it happened, then he passed from a broken heart".

Your chest tightened as you shared the same heart ache of losing family members and your home. The screams of memory past ringing in your ears, the visions of terror sweeping your eyes but you bring yourself back to the present and cusp the little girls hands with your own, soothing her with your thumb. "I too have lost my parents, but I know she is proud of me just like yours is proud of you." The girl looks you in the eyes, lips pouting holding in her tears. "We are the daughters who live on and keep the memory of our loved ones alive for generations to come. We mustn't give into the hole of their absence because they've never really left us. Okay?"

She leaps forward and wraps her arms around your neck tucking her head into the hood of your robe, stifling in a cry. You hug her back. "Thank you. I will remember that next time I feel lonely." She pulls back and you cup her wet cheeks, giving her your biggest smile. "I better find my friends."

Swiftly, she pivots and runs in the direction the other children had gone. You watch as she disappears into the crowd, when something bright flickers in the corner of your eye, almost blinding. You squint as you try to see the source of the light, moving your hood to get a better view.

A Mandalorian.

No, two Mandalorians.

One armoured in unpainted beskar, the one blinding you, looks to be talking to one of the locals who seems intimidated by his presence. He stands tall and stoic, oozing strength, hands resting on his hips as he leans back on one leg. You are drawn to his obliviousness to the fact he stick out of the crowd, shining like a brand new trophy you have to win.

This is the first time you have seen an unpainted Mando. Every one had their clan colours and/or sigils. You focus your vision on his pauldron and see the skull of a mudhorn. You cannot think of any houses or clans with a mudhorn sigil. But you recognise the armour of their partner straight away.

The Nite Owl.

As the owl eyed helmet swivels towards your direction, you look away, hiding your face with your hood looking down at your basket pretending to rummage through it like an every day local. Peeking behind your hood you watch as they walk in the opposite direction, the shiny Mando not letting you lose sight of the Nite Owl as she strides next to him.

Your instincts twitch as you reach out and grab the hand coming your way before it can make contact with you.

"Lady Calista" a voice addresses you by your moniker. It was Bessel. His figure towers over you like a Sando Aqua Monster. A menacing presence for others, but a comforting shadow for you.

You let go of his arm. "Have you assigned someone to follow them?"

"Yes my lady. I have assigned Dodac, Jak and Corus on them. So far the two are unable to get information on our whereabouts from the locals."

"How long have they been in Keren?"

"Corus spotted her Kom'rk land in Keren 2 hours ago. How long they've been on Naboo is uncertain."

You huff, irritated at the lack of communication. Though you yourself have found comfort on Naboo and it's safety, it was no excuse to let your guard down. Even though the people celebrate the fall of the Empire, you still felt a looming presence in the galaxy. The galaxy's main threat may have been defeated but there was always the womp rats hiding in the shadows, feeding on the left over carcasses of their leaders. You worry that this planet may have soften your people.

"Please inform Corus to be more diligent with her sightings and to give me hourly check ins when she's on patrol from now on."

"Yes my lady. Will we be confronting them?"

"Not for now. We don't know what they are searching for. Us most likely, but we can't be stirring up Keren." The people of this city didn't know of your true identities without your helmets, so there was no way they would be able to give you away but by Mandalorian standards, Bo may be able to get the information she needs to find your hideout. Her partner though... "See what they can find on the silver Mando. We know Bo's capabilities but the silver one... there's something about him."

Bessel nods to his orders and places his hand on your shoulder. You relax your body, only realising now how tense you were as your breathing relaxes and you take a deep breath. Pulling your hood down you allow the cool wind and sun shine on you, bringing you some peace as they dance along your skin. You look back at Bessel and he gives you a reassuring smile, his old scar folding into the wrinkles of his battle-hardened face. "Would you like to continue browsing? I hear the grocer further down has imported fruits from Laeto VI. They have your favourite."

"I know what you're trying to do, Bes. But she has already ruined this beautiful day. The others need to be informed anyways"

"Luckily every day is beautiful on Naboo and you will get to enjoy them again once she leaves."

"If..." Your voice trails as you make your way back to the hideout.

Tensions rise as you inform the rest of the clan of the unwelcomed arrival of Bo and her silver partner. Voices of concern were raised and shouts of violence echo over another against the temple walls. Everyone of Mandalore knew of her history and her part that led to the Great Purge. Her name was poison in your mouths and you did not blame your comrades for wanting to take her on and rip her head from her shoulders. How you seethed at the pain she has caused you and your people. A once great nation, brought to nothing from her selfish ambition.

But you couldn't let hatred lead you astray. You had others to think of. "I understand all of your concerns, truly. I want nothing more than to get rid of her once and for all but she has a partner. We don't have any intel yet on whether it is just them two or if there is more of them somewhere else on some other planet or here on Naboo." The crowd murmur amongst themselves. "Yes we are warriors, but we also want peace. To put the past behind us and live on how we wish we could on Mandalore. Attacking her may bring more here and we don't want to bring the trauma we hold onto these innocent people of Keren."

Your people nod and murmur in agreement, giving you a moments calmness before a loud break come from the temple doors.

Corus comes limping in as another holds her up while she held her sides, helmet tucked underneath her armpit, face bloody. Remnants of her robe tattered, singed and hanging from her body revealing her armour underneath. Running over to her, she is gently let down onto the floor to rest.

"She knows we're here." she spits out, blood dribbling down her chin. Angry grunts come from all sides as your last sentiments mean nothing now and everyone curdles with anger. "Dodac and Jak are doing their best to lead them away from the temple but they are struggling and need back up. It's only them two for now but they have the dark saber."

Instantly the temple falls silent.

That is when you decide this needs to be settled now.

"Bessel, comm Dodac and Jak. Tell them to lead them away from the city to somewhere isolated." You bounce back up from your knees to address your people fire burning in their eyes. "Bo-Katan will not take our sanctury, I'll make sure of that myself.

Bessel follows behind. "My lady, don't you want to bring more with us."

"All I need is you by my side. And I don't want to alert the capital. If they get word of a large group of Mandalorian's on their planet, we may have to relocate."

The crowds cheer as your helmet is passed to you and you make your way out the temple. You look back at Bessel as he glows purple, your clan colours, under the moonlight. Keeping your face stern, you nod and put your helmet on, jet packing up and towards the designated area.

As you near your target area, you click a button on your helmet to give better visuals on your targets in the dark. You spot them fighting one on one, your men clearly struggling to hold off the expert perpetrators. "Bes, you take on the other one. She's mine."

You drop altitude as you aim to land on the distracted Bo as she fights Dodac. "Behind you!" shouts the silver Mandalorian, giving her just enough time to dodge you as you land hard.

"We did our best to wear them down." Huffs Dodac, struggling to keep himself upright. You nod your head in the direction of Bessel and Jak fighting off the silver Mandalorian and he follows his orders, joining them.

"I take it you're the one in charge." You can hear the smirk in her voice as she cocks her helmet to the side examining you. Her body looks tired but barely beaten up from the fight. "But I am not here to-".

Before she can finish, you propel yourself forward with your jet pack, blade in hand aiming for her neck. Swiftly she blocks your attack, manoeuvring your wielding hand away and going for a lower punch. You grunt on impact but got back for another slash of your blade. One after the other she dodges and blocks.

Frustrated you go for a kick straight for her stomach and she stumbles back taking the chance to whip out your small pistol. You shoot her as she blocks and lasers ricochet off her armour. You keeping shooting at her as she cover herself the best she can with her shield. A burning sensation begins to form in your hand when suddenly-

"Frak!" you scream as your pistol explodes and disintegrates in your hand burning through your glove. This couldn't have happened at the worse time.

Bo throws out her whip cord, attaching to your injured hand and pulls hard sending you to the ground. A searing pain shoots from your shoulder as you are yanked towards Bo but adrenaline keeps it at bay letting you swivel your body and get upright to cut the cord with your blade in time as you reach in front of her. Grappling around her chest you launch her and yourself into the sky. When you reach high enough, you stop your jetpack and let gravity bring you back down.

Bo squirms in your grip underneath you, back facing the incoming ground, thrashing at whatever un-armoured spaces she can on your body and you take on the hits without losing your grip around her. Heavy grunts and whines are passed as you two dive towards the ground. At the last second she manages to flip your bodies over mid air making you both land on your sides once you make collision.

As your body crashes into the ground, wind is forced out your body and your vision flashes white at the shock of impact, the smell of blood and sweat engulfing your senses inside your helmet. You choke for air while trying to roll over, fully aware of your opponent also gasping for air. You look over at her through your visor. Bo is on her hands and knees trying to push herself up. In front of her is your blade.

You pray on your ancestors for strength as you sloppily thrust your self onto your feet. Legs shaking, still gasping for more air you so badly want to take your helmet off but you don't won't to expose yourself.

"I am Bo-Katan Kryze! I have come here on a mission for our people!" She begs.

"Our people!?" You hiss. "You killed our people!"

You jet yourself forward, swiping up your blade. You manage to get a few swipes, slashing her as she struggles to block and dodge, her body noticeably slowing and in pain. Unsheathing her blade from her brace she strikes for your lower torso but you block with your thigh followed with a heavy punch to the chest. Over and over again you two are trying to hit each other, your breathes burning in your throat as exhaustion starts taking its toll on both of you. At one point you catch each others attacks, you holding her right arm while it grasps your pauldron, her holding you wielding hand as your blade is centimetres from her throat. You take the chance to head butt her. Both your helmets vibrating from collision, you try to find your balance, standing facing each other, your bodies heaving but ready for each others next move.

"Will you just listen to me!" Bo yells. "I have come with a proposition!"

A loud grunt comes from her partner as he is slowly taken down by your men, distracting her for a split second giving you the opening you need. Full force, you drop and slide along the ground, knocking her shins and sending her to the floor. Without a moments hesitation you jump onto her back and rip off her jetpack as well as snatching her helmet off, head flailing out, you begin punching her face from behind.

You only see red and let out a visceral scream as you continue punching. Bo tries to get out but you have her pinned down and battering her face. The visions and sounds of memories past fill your senses overwhelming you, losing reality, high on revenge and spite. You are so consumed with hatred that don't notice the silver body flying towards you and shoving your body off Bo's.

Fuelled with adrenaline, your quickly back onto your feet to face your opponent, pissed that your men weren't able to hammer him down. You would think 3 against 1 would be easy pickings but there he stands. Panting and guarding Bo's limp body. He stands ready to fight, darksaber in hand.

"Ke'mot!" You yell at your men, sprinting towards you and your new opponent.

Time stands still as you come back to reality. Vision clearing and the sounds of nature come back to you. That ringing in your ear slowly dying down.

You see your men standing with guns pointed at him, fingers on the trigger ready for your orders but they too soon realise what stands in front of them.

"Well this is a turn of events."

The silver Mando stays in position ready to fight but you slowly make you way towards him… fascinated.

"Your people attacked first. We just wanted to talk." His voice is deep and nonchalant getting lost into the sounds of the forest and wind.

You stop face to face and try to examine him despite his helmet. You hold your hands behind your back as a show of good faith and he follows suit, retracting the saber and but still staying guarded.

"Who are you." Your words slip out from your consciousness, curiosity getting the better of you.

"Din Djarin." his voice is low but powerful.

"What clan are you?"

"I was a foundling, raised and trained by the Mandalorians of Concordia."

"Ah. Of course she is still parading around with Death Watch." You gaze down at the body on the ground, slowly coming back to consciousness, groaning in pain and reaching out for her helmet. You swipe the helmet off the ground, holding with both hands as you stare at the Nite Owl. Fist forming, scarping against the metal and slightly stinging your burnt hand. As your adrenaline levels lower, pain starts to seep its way in to you body. You worry you won’t have the needed strength if the silver Mando turns.

"Bo-Katan does not walk your Way." You say through gritted teeth. "Why do you fight for her."

He does not answer. Simply stares at you in silence. Contemplating his next words, he does not want to bring the fight back to pace. He stands just taller than you, making you look up at him. You feel like he may be trying to intimidate you or maybe he's just making you look stupid while you stand in silence waiting for each others next move. Instead he pops his hip out, arm moving up and making your men instinctually straighten their aim at him. The silver Mando places his hand on his hip and you keep your stance, hands resting behind your back. You were not scared of him but his composure exudes confidence and it was off putting. Ignoring your question, it seems curiosity also got the better of him too...

"Who are you." He tips his head towards you.

Wind swirling between the two of you, almost pushing you towards him, closer than you already are but you hold your stance. Giving him another once over, your eyes linger on the saber hilt hanging from his belt. A weapon of old legend, possessed by a nobody. A man not even of Mandalore. How did he get a hold of such a prize? Did he win it in battle against Bo?

No. He fights alongside her. He would of had to pry it from her cold dead body if they fought for that honour. Scenarios run through your head as you try to think of any possibility of why the darksaber is in front of you right now. You contemplate the possibility of wielding it yourself, just as your uncle had. The possibility of rebuilding your nation.

Your drifting thoughts are interrupted with a clearing of the silver Mando’s throat.

“Mandalorian Marchioness, Calista Kryze.”

A weak, muffled laugh comes from beneath you two. She is on both hands trying to lever herself but she is to weak too so she sits herself up instead, using one hand to prop herself up and while the other wipes blood off her now botched and bruising face. The silver Mando steps aside giving her a clear view of you. Even with a helmet on you know she can see your enraged face, smirking right back at you.

“As I live and breathe. Dear cousin, it is nice seeing you again.” She spits blood onto the floor. “Quite the family reunion.”

“We are not family usurper.” You growl.

The smirk does not leave her face. “Maybe not by blood, but we are by name little tooka.”

Little tooka. The condescending nickname she gave you growing up.

"I see you still use your moniker-" As she is about to speak your real name, embolden by anger you take a step forward and thrash her in the head with her own helmet instantly knocking her out, dropping to the floor.

Your arm is yanked, twisting your body to front him and a stiff grip is wrapped around your throat, your helmets just a breath away from clinking together. You release your grip on Bo's helmet to hold onto the arm choking you and a clang echoes through the night sky.

“Let her go!” Shouts Bessel as he aims at the silver Mando. You trust Bessel’s aim and precision but you can handle this.

“It’s alright boys, dirycir gar besbe'trayce.” you barely squeeze out your words past his fingers.

They hesitate but they follow your orders, trusting you have control of the situation.

His grip on your arm tightens, not moving away from you as you listen to the growling from under his helmet.

"Ne shab'rud'ni!" You snarl.

"Do you have no honour?" He growls.

"Do you have no dignity?" You mock.

His hands tighten around your throat and you start to get light headed. Though as if on some high, you let out a breathy giggle. You don't know what was coming over you but you can't help the grin forming on the side of your mouth. Thank the Maker he can’t see it behind your helmet.

"You're the one with no dignity. Laughing like a little girl while your life is on the line" His voice is low and gritty, moving his grip further up your throat, your chin lifting.

A shiver goes down your spine. You gulp and a warmth drops and spreads through you like you've never felt before.

Stars start to flash in your vision, light-headedness escalating, you remember your audience and who is in front of you. Slipping your hand from his hand choking you, you unsheathe your blade from your brace then quickly stab him in the side below his ribs. The perfect spot to immobilise him. As he trips over himself from the shock, holding his injury and grunting in pain, you give him a solid boot in the stomach pushing him over onto his back with a loud thud. He shoots out his whip cord wrapping around your waist and you're pulled down towards him. Your body lands on top of him straddling his waist, pelvis rubbing his utility belt and hands on chest. That heat inside you burns hotter at the close proximity and his whimpers under your sudden body weight.

You hear a click and look down to see a pistol in his hand with the barrel pointing straight at your abdomen. You panic.

Suddenly a flash ricochets off his pistol, knocking it out of his hand. You look over and see Bessel as he and your men come jetting towards you. You push yourself off him instantly, kicking his pistol away.

“Bo did not fight with her weapons, she did not come to kill you.” He struggles to say. “She could have if she really wanted to.”

“As could I but I have chosen to show her the mercy she does not deserve!” You place your boot on the throat of her unconscious body, holding yourself back from completely crushing her windpipe. His neck snapping back and forth between the two on you. Almost pleading through his helmet. “When she wakes up, tell her to stay away from us or I will kill her and whoever gets in my way."

You move your boot away, pick up Bo’s helmet and begin to walk away from the stranger and usurper.

Grunts of pain labouring behind you. “Mandalore-“

Stopped in your tracks. “Unless you wish to be demised like Mandalore, I would not follow Bo-Katan. You’re better off killing her yourself and saving your own clan, Din Djarin.” you spit out.

With that you take off, away and over the trees with Bessel, Dodac and Jak in suit.

Masterlist ✧ Next

A/N: I looked up the Mandalorian timeline and it is very vague, especially everyone’s ages and when events happened. I will try my best to get info right but will be taking creative liberties. I just really wanted to try write a somewhat compelling story with my favourite space cowboy xx

[triscribeaucollection]

@foxstronaut: #YEAH SO I DID IN FACT WANT TO SEE IT#this is so good……this au just keeps getting better……….tysm for the link to this post!!#the wider context of the time travel……the fallout of bens betrayal…..#positively eating this up#also if i can ask- what is the ‘shereshoy’ mentioned in ur tag? :0

Shereshoy is the capstone of my Vod'e An Star Wars series, which is ALL about time travel, but I keep copy-pasting the intro scene into different AUs because it is. Definitely one of my favorite bits of writing to date.

Here's the series summary:

Have you ever seen a time traveler dropped into the middle of someone else's butterfly effect? How about several dozen someones? AKA I nabbed all my fave clone troopers and sprinkled them into a much happier galaxy, with a touch of violence on top. As a treat.

Aaand just for laughs, here's the intro scene in question:

---

The Force screamed in the middle of the night, and Ahsoka lurched awake with one overriding thought: not again.

Both lightsabers immediately flew to her hands as she rolled out of bed - boots and outer robes left behind in her sprint for the door. For the first time since constructing her own hab at Luke’s school, Ahsoka regretted putting herself on a neighboring ridge instead of down in the valley among the students.

Even as she ran, the Force flickered with another youngling’s death.

Beams of red light in the darkness, matched to knots of Dark power, drew her forward at even greater speed. Bounding off rocks and trees, the togruta remained nearly silent with every leap; she instinctively shielded herself with the Force to mask her approach, until the moment she burst out over the heads of three Sith acolytes, and let her own power flare.

Their helmeted heads snapped upwards. In the span of two heartbeats, her white sabers slashed, and those same heads fell to the ground, their bodies following after a brief pause.

Ahsoka landed in a battle-ready crouch, positioned defensively over a boy collapsed on the ground. When no further Sith revealed themselves, she deactivated and tucked away one lightsaber, freed hand reaching for the teenager at her feet. “Jacen?”

“I’m okay,” he rasped, heart pounding hard enough her lekku could feel the vibrations. “What- what’s happening?”

“Another Purge,” Ahsoka said, fighting hard to keep her voice level. “Can you feel Ezra?” After a moment’s pause, his face scrunched with desperate concentration, Jacen nodded. “Then let’s go. I’ll watch your back.”

The boy staggered upright, and led her around to the far side of the school buildings: student sleeping huts, a kitchen and meal hall, storage and laundry and library. Most of them bore scorch marks and other damage, while further up the valley, the actual temple where Luke handled meditation and combat training burned.

Storm clouds rumbled overhead, an echo of the fury roaring in Ahsoka’s mind. Twice, cracks of lightning revealed fallen bodies as she and Jacen ran past.

Another set of Sith attempted an ambush, only to falter when they registered her white lightsabers. Ahsoka didn’t hesitate to leap forward and deal with them swiftly, before any attention could be turned to the padawan beside her. Jacen, thankfully, didn’t attempt to join her, nor did he comment afterward - but his Force-presence shivered and pulled in even tighter on itself.

The next enemies they came across were a squad of stormtroopers, concentrating fire on a solitary figure, who deflected incoming plasma bolts and shot back his own with the same weapon. Ahsoka could sense two more younglings hidden behind Ezra’s billowed cloak, and increased her speed.

One trooper spotted her mid-charge. He and his neighbor turned to shoot at the new target, but their bolts went wild, too far off the mark to even require deflection. Ridiculous, Ahsoka could hear in her mind, as she spun and slashed, No brother would have gotten off Kamino with aim like that; do they even bother training these shinies, or just hand ‘em armor and a blaster and a new set of orders?

Faster than droids, but not nearly as fast or coordinated as clones, which meant Ahsoka carved through the stormtroopers within moments. As the last blaster fell in pieces to the ground, she saw Jacen dash past to crash against his favorite teacher with a desperate hug. Ezra wrapped an arm around the boy’s shoulders, the other still holding his lightsaber. “Ahsoka?”

“Get to my ship,” she ordered, as another peal of thunder rang above their heads, and the first few raindrops began to fall. “Don’t wait for anyone else, just take off and get to safety.”

Expression grim, Ezra nodded, and turned to drop into a crouch. He helped Alora get to her feet, the girl holding Grogu against her chest. “Pypey?”

The teenager shook her head, headscarf gone, face covered in tears. Ezra didn’t waste any more time before hustling her and Jacen off, towards the hidden landing pad where they kept hyper-capable craft. Ahsoka barely waited before hurrying onward again.

She passed more bodies; some students, some stormtroopers, the occasional Sith in black and red armor. The rain began coming down harder, turning the ground slick with mud, dragging visibility down to mere feet and severely impacting how much Ahsoka could sense with her hollow montrals.

But the Force didn’t falter. Every leap took her from one mostly-stable spot to another, following further death knells and surges of power, all the way up to the front steps of the old Jedi temple set into the mountainside. All the way to Luke.

Despite his much smaller stature, he moved like Anakin, and she could feel the intense emotions racing through him. One trooper after another fell, Luke refusing to let any of them put so much as a single foot on the steps into his school, his Academy. More bodies sprawled across the stones behind him; only one still flickered faintly with life.

Ahsoka took over the fight.

She landed ahead and just to one side of Luke, better positioned to defend the one student still gasping for breath. “Go! Take her and go!” Her fellow Jedi hesitated, clearly torn between multiple directions. “She’s dying, Luke, take Jaina and go, NOW!”

His Force-presence flared, then settled, decision made. Ahsoka felt the man lunge, scoop up his wounded student, and bolt into the Temple. She knew he’d follow a secret route out to the far side of the mountain, where an overhang sheltered his old X-Wing. With any luck, Artoo would be waiting, engines already fired up and ready to take off.

Even without luck, Ahsoka would buy them enough time to escape. Raindrops sizzled off her lightsabers as she swept them through the air, evaporating into steam that trailed after her every movement.

And Ahsoka moved.

[crystaljins]

Stars Above | 10

Characters: Taehyung x Reader

Word count: 4.3k

Synopsis: Your nagging roommate is desperate for a third person to help meet the rent and your university just so happens to be running a fully-funded government grant for anyone who signs up to participate in the Intergalactic Exchange program.

Having an alien for a roommate is just asking for all kinds of trouble, though.

Alien!Taehyung x reader

Rating: Teens

Notes: We’re at the second last chapter!! Where did the time go? I sneezed and 2022 had passed me by!!!

Anyway it’s not a proper goodbye yet but I’m starting to get really emotional to think that not only are we at the end of this series, but of this blog. I’m going to miss you guys!! 

Masterlist

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11

The warp terminal is a sleek, modern building. It could be mistaken for any generic sort of office building, nestled in the very heart of the city. It has steep rates for the underground carpark, to the point that it’s almost risking the fine to park on the street right next to the entrance, and there’s a steady stream of people flowing in and out of the building throughout the day. 

Sighing idly, you kick your legs as you rest against the low concrete wall that skirts around the base of the building. You hadn’t realised there was quite so much bureacracy in merely stepping into a terminal that instantly transported you to a planet galaxies away, but you suppose it is in the best interest of both planets to closely monitor the traffic across the warp. Taehyung had promised the warp would be quick- he’d nip across, ferry his sister back, and be in the car before the parking fee could click over to two hours, but it’s now pushing three hours. 

You glance at your watch- you’ve already bought lunch from a nearby cafe, and then a fancy iced beverage. There’s a little clothing boutique that you browsed through as well. Your phone’s battery is sitting at the 44% mark but you know that there’s only so many sudokus you can do before you start dreaming about numbers in your sleep, and you’ve always stubbornly ignored Nayeon’s advice to have more mobile games than just the sudoku one downloaded. 

You’re briefly contemplating just going home and texting Taehyung to catch the bus with his sister when you feel an abrupt chill on the back of your neck. 

To your credit, you only leap about a metre in the air, whipping around to address the stinging cold to find a grinning Taehyung brandishing a chilled drink at you. 

“Was your waiting time very extended?” He questions. 

You send him a flat look- it’s not really fair to take it out on him, given it’s not like a simple text would traverse the numerous light years that separate Earth, and his home planet. But still, you feel it lacks tact to comment on the absurdly long waiting time. 

“What took so long?” You question, biting back the complaints to stretch out a kink in your neck. The backs of your thighs are chilled from contact with the concrete and they’ve left little imprints on your skin. You accept the drink- it’s sweet and tangy and leaves a pleasant fizz on your tongue but it’s not a drink you’ve ever sampled before.

Taehyung flashes you that guilty smile, the one that has been getting him out of any and all trouble ever since that damned birthday trip with Nayeon, and internally you scold yourself for being so whipped. 

“My sister had not packaged her belongings.” He admits. He steps aside then, gesturing to a young woman, probably only a few years younger than Taehyung, hovering a few metres away. 

She doesn’t resemble Taehyung that much, in all honesty. They both bear that striking beauty that is shared across their entire species, but where Taehyung’s feature are sharp and handsome, hers are soft and delicate. Her eyes are rounded and her cheeks are soft and smooth. The only thing she shares in common with Taehyung is that unique look to her eyes, like galaxies are hidden in their depths, the blue sheen and the 5 pointed pupil, like little stars nestled amidst a dark velvet sky. 

However, there’s something decidedly unfriendly in the way her gaze roves up and down your form, and instantly you are on your guard. 

“Well,” you say to him, not shifting your gaze from his sister. “I hope you know you’re covering the parking rates.” 

Taehyung nods obediently before darting over to his sister. She doesn’t have any baggage on her, but you know from experience that likely it’s just stored in some sort of tiny, neat rectangular device in her pocket, like Taehyung’s were when he first arrived. 

“This is Jina.” He says, and she offers you a curt nod. Taehyung frowns briefly at her before offering you an awkward smile. “She is shy.” He offers by way of explanation, although you suspect it runs a little deeper than mere shyness when she huffs and turns, already stomping off in the direction of the parking lot. 

Shaking your head, you sigh and follow after her before she can get lost on the way to the parking lot. If she has anything close to her brother’s sense of direction, then once she steps out view she’ll be lost amongst the 7 billion plus people and the couple of extra aliens that roam this planet forever. 

“So you had to pack for her and that’s what took three hours?” You ask Taehyung as he falls into step beside you. His knuckles briefly brush yours and you know he senses the mild irritation and the wariness you’re experiencing but he smiles blithely like he can’t. 

“Something like that. We had many things to discuss before she started her visit with earth.” He confesses. Briefly, ever so briefly, his smile drops just enough for you to realise that he’s putting on a brave face, for whatever reason, and instantly your irritation softens into concern. 

Without the veil of your own vexation, you’re suddenly alert to the tiny signals Taehyung has been giving off- the tense hold to his shoulders, the tight curve of his smile, the way his eyes don’t spark with that usual mirthful mischief that makes him so unique himself. The goofy, cheerful smiles had been forced this whole time. 

You hesitate just long enough for him to gain about a half a step’s lead on you. It’s just enough time to gather your composure, and this time you’re the one to allow your knuckles to brush along his. It’s a trick you’ve picked up since discovering your own feelings- if you focus on one emotion hard enough, then that is the one Taehyung picks up on. It’s helpful for hiding certain emotions, but it’s also helpful in letting him know what you’re thinking and feeling. In this instance, you let your concern filter through.  

“Everything ok?” You ask softly. His gaze remains fixed on his sister’s determined stride ahead of the two of you- she’s starting to falter as she draws near the parking lot, probably realising she doesn’t actually know the way. 

“Yes.” He answers absently. “Just….. fatigued.” 

You don’t have to have his alien ability to read emotions to know that it runs a little deeper than that. 

++

Despite her obvious distaste for you upon your first meeting, Jina isn’t a particularly bad room-mate. She’s quiet and sticks to herself, mostly. She brought over most of her meals from her home planet and refuses to touch human food, so you don’t have an extra mouth to feed. She sticks to her room, when you are home, so you never have to compromise in shared spaces. And Taehyung takes her out for most of the day, so you aren’t stuck ferrying her around like you had been with Taehyung when he first arrived on this planet. 

You have nothing to complain about with regards to her visit, and yet something niggles heavily at you. 

Taehyung hasn’t been himself. 

It’s nothing huge- in fact, it probably indicates that you spend far too much time thinking about him for you to even notice the change. None of your other friends seem to notice anything is amiss, after all. He’s as smile-y and happy-go-lucky as ever. He dotes on his sister, which fits perfectly with how you’d thought he’s be towards her. He’s chatty and conversational over dinner. 

It’s in just the briefest moments that it’s obvious something is wrong. Like how he’ll get home after a day out with her and then immediately head straight back out again, leaving Jina to sit in his room. Or how he’ll finish dinner and the smile will slip off his face for moments before he heads back to his room. It’s tiny, it’s minuscule, it’s none of your business…

And yet you’re worried. You don’t know how much of it bears its roots in newly discovered feelings and how much just stems from general empathy, but that pathetic little half-smile of his makes you feel like he’s punched you in the throat

You’re about a week and a half into Jina’s visit with roughly another week to go when you finally confront Taehyung over it. It’s at a bit of an impulse that you bring it up- you’d settled into the couch to watch something on netflix and are surprised when Taehyung settles next to you. 

As is his usual habit, his fingers inch towards the nearest available patch of skin. Today, it’s the top of your foot, stretched out across the cushions. It’s distracting enough that you find yourself watching him instead of the mindless comedy playing in the background. It’s been a while since it’s just been the two of you, what with Taehyung’s lengthy adventures showing his sister around the city. She doesn’t particularly like mixing with you or Nayeon, so the most interaction Taehyung gets is a brief conversation over dinner before he retired to his room or a quick and tired “good morning” before you set out for the day after breakfast. 

“How are you?” You find yourself asking. His thumb, which had been absently tracing along the arch of your foot, pauses as dark eyes flicker to you. He looks tired; his colour just seems leeched and lifeless and there’s something lacklustre about his demeanour. 

“I’m ok.” He answers weakly, offering you a tired smile that markedly contradicts his words. 

It makes you frown because Taehyung has always been open with you. From the littlest things like how his day went to bigger things like fights with his family or stressful assignments. For him to suddenly go against this is disconcerting. 

You’re not sure what he feels flicker across the point of contact between you, but it is surely unpleasant. Perhaps the flicker of hurt, or the mixture of concern and surprise. Whatever it is, it has him sighing in defeat. He leans forward and with his free hand gentle tucks a strand of hair behind your ear. You feel your heart race and your cheeks heat and it makes Taehyung’s smile widen. 

“Little human,” he says affectionately. It’s not a name he’s called you by before and you’re not sure where it comes from but something about the inflection makes your heart stutter in your chest. “I am not content with the thought of your worry.” He confesses, before leaning back to settle against the couch with a sigh. “That is why I’d prefer to carry my own burdens, right now. Please do not be hurt or upset.”

His eyes slide shut and his breathing is steady, exhaustion written into every line of his face. You think you understand the sentiments behind his reluctance to share, but the fact is, you can’t help but worry when he looks like this.

“I’m already worrying.” Is the soft answer you give. One of his eyes blinks open in surprise, and then the other opens to follow. “Don’t…. Don’t make me sit here and make up reasons for why you’re like this. I’ll only worry more- I can’t not worry when you’re not yourself.” 

A long silence follows your admission and then finally Taehyung speaks again. 

“I cannot seem to win where you are concerned.” He laughs wryly to himself. “Very well. I had just hoped…. That perhaps my sister would find more enjoyment of her trip.” He confesses, like he carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. Sad, round eyes flicker to you and you’re reminded of a kicked puppy. “I thought she agreed to come to Earth for my support…. But she came to convince me to return home.”

Suddenly it clicks into place- the long time it took Taehyung to arrive back at the terminal, his sister’s belligerence, his exhaustion and misery…. He’s confessed on separate occasions to you during the past few months that his relationship with his family is rocky at best. You’d mistakenly thought maybe they’d moved past it, considering his enthusiasm for her visit. But no- all this time he’s been facing pressure to give up his exchange, likely from both his sister and his parents. So it makes sense that he’s so disappointed now, and accounts for the way he’s been off. Even someone as cheerful and determined as Taehyung would begin to feel the strain to have his hopes repeatedly stepped on like that. 

“You…” he looks at you like he wants to say more, but then seems to think better of it, changing the subject quickly. “I tried taking her to the places we attended together, since I found a huge enjoyment in those experiences. But she’s so determined to not have any enjoyment that it just keeps going poorly-“ he shoves a frustrated hand through his hair. “I… don’t know what else to do to have her convinced.” 

You bite your lip. This is important to Taehyung. For whatever reason, he really likes Earth, and it’s a fairly simple and reasonable request, to have his family support that. Especially in a planet as community-based as Taehyung’s. And if it’s important to Taehyung… it’s important to you. As silly as it is, you want to do whatever it takes to make this goofy, ridiculous alien happy. 

“Well,” you speak up. “Maybe there’s one place I haven’t taken you to that might win her over?”

++

You’re not sure why you specifically thought the local showgrounds would be the place to convince Jina. But, when you think of fun, earthen events, this is the place you think of. Amusing, mechnical rides, interesting foods, and a general sense of festivity. This is the peak of humanity. 

Taehyung, at least, is thrilled. His eyes flicker from stall to stall, taking in the games and rides. Children run screeching past him, brandishing toys that flash in neon lights. The smell of fried food lingers in the air and at the end of the path, a giant, twinkling ferris wheel towers over the park. 

“This place is amazing!” He confesses, shuffling closer to one of the games where a young couple are taking turns to toss a small ball into a bottle. The guy fails and groans in defeat and then the girl smugly sinks the ball into the bottle. 

Jina is less thrilled- she hugs her arms around herself awkwardly, looking distinctly uncomfortable. The evening has well and truly set in and the last traces of sun have leeched from the horizon yet she still wears her black baseball cap like it will shield her from the onslaught of people pouring between stalls. 

“Would you like something to eat?” You ask her. 

She’s managed to master a look that conveys her sentiments towards you- a sort of squint to her eyes that screams “you are a bug and I would love to squash you”. She levels that particular look at you today and it’s sent with extra potency. 

“I don’t like human food.” She sniffs, hugging her arms around her more tightly. 

Oddly, it reminds you of the twins. They both went through a particularly fussy phase and they handled it in a similar way to Jina- you can vividly recall the pouts that is now mirrored upon Jina’s face. 

“Just one bite?” You coax, stepping in a little closer. Such an action is dangerous- you could be stepping into the den of a lion or a kitten and you won’t find out until it’s too late. “I’ll choose something and if you hate it, I’ll finish the rest?”

Something in her posture slackens just a little- you know she’s on the verge of caving. It’s nearing dinner time, after all, and likely her hunger is warring with her determination to be standoffish and angry. You spare a glance at Taehyung, who had been watching the exchange with a sort of hopeless, despairing expression. 

“Are there any flavours Jina prefers?” You question him. He frowns and pauses, muttering under his breath in the way that he often does when struggling with a translation. 

“Ah…. Sweet?” He says, posing it like a question, as if you would have the answer. But then his gaze sets into something more certain and he nods to himself. “Sweet foods.” He asserts. 

A quick glance around confirms an abundance of sweet foods, so Taehyung’s recommendation doesn’t prove very helpful. Finally, you spot a fairy floss stand a few stalls up. There’s very little that can go wrong with spun sugar and the novelty of soft, coloured and sweet clouds is hopefully enchanting enough to overcome Jina’s aversion to human foods. Idly, you shift your weight back and forth as you wait your place in line. 

The momentary space from Taehyung and Jina means the freedom to think. You think of Taehyung, and his simmering anxiety, the desperation he feels for Jina to see something good. It’s not that he cares much for her opinions of humans, although he’s gentle enough that her dislike has him feeling sorry, but that he seeks her approval. That seems to be what Taehyung has always sought, even when he’d first arrived on Earth, wide-eyed and searching for a place that would accept him. You’ve thought and known this before.

But today, you allow yourself to think of Jina as well. The year cycle on Taehyung’s planet is slightly shorter than Earth’s- numbers-wise, both Taehyung and Jina have larger ages than you. 

But time-wise, the time she has been alive is shorter than yours. It had been a point of confusion during the early days of contact between your two planets; currently, it is understood that the lifespans between your two peoples are similar and yet the other race had presented ages so much larger than humans expect to live to. It’s funny then, that in reality she is little older than a highschooler despite her age being more than yours. 

You picture your own younger siblings, and how they’d feel if you suddenly moved to another country. They cry every time you leave home to return back to your apartment- they beg you to stay with tears streaking their little faces. 

You think that Jina’s attitude may be something similar. With each new place Taehyung brings her, she sees what he likes. She sees the things he enjoys. She sees that he’s happy. You hadn’t known him before Earth, but you knew the timid, distantly polite alien that had arrived and the boisterous, eager, joyful soul that remains. For whatever reason, Taehyung loves Earth. And to Jina, that love is stealing him away. 

So perhaps the secret is not to show her the good things of Earth, but rather that Taehyung will not leave her. Well, physically he may, but at the very least, for as long as he lives, he will love and adore his baby sister.

With a sigh, you accept the stick of the fairy floss from the stall worker- it’s two toned. Soft, pastel blue, and a sweet, warm pink colour. You hold it carefully, weary of the sugar melting against your hands and leaving it sticky. 

You find the two siblings seated in a quieter section, away from the crowd. Taehyung stretches his legs out against the grass, while Jina hugs her into her chest. It’s not so well-lit here, which is perhaps it’s so quiet. Above them, the ferris wheel towers. Likely, the bright lights would tamper with the view of the outstretched city you’d gain within the carriages of the ride. The park owners had deliberately left it dark. From one window, the showgrounds would stretch in a brightly lit path, and you could watch the people the milled through the stalls- from the other, you could glimpse the sprawling, twinkling metropolitan lights. 

Taehyung would like the ferris wheel, is what you think as you settle beside them.

You stretch your arm out, towards Jina, offering her the fairy floss. She squints at it suspiciously, before accepting the wooden stick between wary fingertips. 

“It’s a sweet.” You say. “It gets very sticky, but you can pull off little pieces and eat them, or you could bite it straight off the stick.” 

She takes a small amount, nibbling at it tentatively. The way she chews is like a little rodent. 

She must enjoy the taste, however, for her mouthfuls become more sure and she plucks off larger chunks to eat. 

Finally, she pauses and her gaze flickers to you and Taehyung, watching expectantly. She swallows her mouthful and stares back for a long moment, before speaking at last. 

“I’m thirsty.” She announces. You blink a few times, before nodding and sighing. She, like Taehyung, refuses to take anything with animal products in it, but a can of soft drink should be relatively safe. 

But she stops you. 

“Him.” She demands, like she is a commander giving orders to her army. “He knows what I like better.”

A silent current passes between the siblings that warns you not to protest. They seem to settle upon some sort of agreement, for Taehyung clambers to his feet, brushing away the dirt that clings to the back of his jeans. 

“I’ll return in a quick moment.” He assures the two of you, before darting back towards the main path of the showgrounds. 

It leaves you alone with Jina, which you never actually have been before. She always makes a conscious to either avoid acknowledging your existence, or glaring at you so hard you wish she’d just ignored you. 

The silence is awkward until Jina breaks it. Then the awkwardness of the conversation is worse.

“You tempt him.” She observes. For a moment, you stare at her, incredulous, and perhaps the baffled look to your eyes conveys that you don’t understand. Her mouth sets in a thin line of frustration before she tries again. The words are slow and you wonder if maybe she’s just struggling to translate her thoughts into your language. “You lure him away. From home.”

You grimace at her. 

“I do no such thing.” You assert, slightly offended that she thinks you’d ever do something like that to Taehyung. All his actions are his own, and you’d never deprive him of the valuable right to choose his own path. She shakes her head angrily, still frustrated. 

“No, you don’t.” She agrees. “I don’t mean that you do it with active intention. I mean that your being is why he’s here. Your presence. He stays because of you.”

You purse your lips, startled at the implication, and it takes you a few moments to find words for a rebuttal. 

“He doesn’t.” Is the genius comeback your brain supplies you with. 

She gives you a flat look and plucks another chunk of fairy floss, chewing at it with more aggression than is perhaps warranted for a soft, spun-sugar snack. 

“Humans lack so much.” She complains. Sharp eyes flick to you- in this lighting you cannot make out the distinct points of her pupils- instead to round black circles stare you down. “He loves you.”

There’s a beat of silence, laden with meaning. Children laugh in the background, and snippets of the unintelligible babble of conversation float through on the night time breeze. 

“He doesn’t.” You say, because you don’t know what else to say. Truthfully, you don’t know if he does or doesn’t. You’d studiously avoided ever dissecting his actions, out of a desperate sense of self-preservation. To over-interpret his actions and be wrong would hurt. To be correct would be terrifying. Your heart is a tight ball of anxiety- the answer of “does he” or “doesn’t he” feels like an enormous, hulking beast, one you can never hope to defeat. 

Jina snorts. 

“Obviously he does. I know my brother- I see how his look has you in it. I know that he has taken changes. I know how our people have love.” Her gaze turns sharp. “And I know that he has enough of foolishness to keep him home at Earth for a human girl.” 

You swallow past a dry mouth. Should you believe her? Should you deny it?

Your heart releases, a traitorous, happy flutter. You picture that morning, at the camp- the way the sunlight had washed his hair gold, the galaxies that swum in his irises. You remember a bright smile with strawberry-stained lips. You remember tired but tender gazes as he returned from a long day. You remember the tickle of his fingers in your hair as you fought back sleep. 

Could he? Could he really love you? 

Jina groans and rolls her eyes, burying her face in her hands. She has long since finished her fairy floss. 

“Make sure that he makes visits.” She sighs, through her hands. “If he insists on staying, I mean. He has not any sense, but you do. I will accept you if you promise his visits.” 

You never give an answer, because Taehyung returns at that moment, proudly brandishing a tall, strawberry-coloured drink that probably cost an absurd amount of money. 

And yet, nevertheless, while Jina remains grumpy for the rest of her trip, there’s something gentler about her. 

And Taehyung goes back to his normal self, cheerful and relaxed, even if he looks a little sad as she steps into the warp terminal after she says goodbye. 

“You can visit her.” You remind him. “Warp travel is pretty fast, I hear.” 

He glances down at you, and his smile is sweet, fond. 

“I know.” He answers. And then he turns away. There’s a bounce in his step as he leads you home.

[bobsfic]

Can we get a sneak peek of the next chapter of the new girl or the au fic?💕

Because I took approximately 718903 years to even look at this fic enough to answer this ask, here's an extra long sneak peak of a single thread of gold:

For one glorious moment, he thinks yes. She's kissing him back and her hand brushes against his side. Her lashes flutter, their lips close enough to be still connected, breathing each other in, savouring the moment.

And then she’s gone and his arms are empty, an inky chill seeping into his bones.

“I–I’m sorry,” she says, her eyes wide, pink lips parted as she breathes heavily, a wrecked expression on her face. “I can’t–”

Something dark and sharp roars to life inside of his chest, demanding violence, anger, something, anything, because of course he's fucked this up too. Of course she doesn't want him like that.

“It’s fine,” he quickly says, though he feels so far from fine he could be in another galaxy. “I shouldn’t have–”

“No!” she practically shouts, before closing her eyes and swallowing thickly. “No, it’s not–it’s not you.”

It’s the age old saying, and despite the cliche, she looks absolutely miserable, her eyes getting shiny as her lips tremble. 

“You all right?” He steps closer, concern for her taking over everything else. Smothering the disappointment and confusion and the sinking feeling that he was right all along. “Kie?”

She nods jerkily, twisting her hands in front of her. “I’m fine, I just…”

He waits but she doesn't continue, and he fills in the dots himself. “It’s fine, Kie. It doesn’t have to be a big deal.”

He’s a fucking liar. 

It’s a huge deal. He can feel the phantom of her mouth still brushing his, the taste of her on his lips, her chest brushing his. The free falling sensation of taking a chance, taking the leap from friends to more. 

It’s crashing and burning, like he should have expected, and they’re surrounded by smoking rubble. But she’s looking at him like she’s about to burst into tears, and he’s not gonna push her when she’s clearly so upset about the whole thing.

“Look, it just… it happened. And that’s it, okay? We can just etch a sketch it. Put it behind us.” It hurts to even say it, let alone attempt to do it, but he’ll do anything for her, even pretend like kissing her didn’t mean the world to him, like it wasn’t everything he’s dared to dream about.

[onomatopoetic101999]

Chapter Six: Irruption

Chapter Seven: Illumination

Ignis Fatuus Masterlist

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Irruption: a violent incursion or invasion

------

TW: This chapter includes violence, blood, wounds, and hospitals. If any of these things bother you, skip to the end for a summary!!

------

You open the door to your shared room about 15 minutes after you've run away. Sam is there waiting, and he all but leaps up from his chair to meet you.

The tear tracks along your cheeks are obvious, and when Sam hesitantly reaches out to wipe them away, you let him. When you look up to meet his eyes, your heart twists. He looks devastated at how upset you are, and you try to find it in your heart not to blame him. He didn't do anything wrong; his plan worked, didn't it? Your sudden realization wasn't his fault; he didn't know any better.

You try to smile, to stop him from worrying, but it fails miserably. You just close your eyes and bury your head against his chest instead, unable to bear looking at him now that you've realized the predicament you're in.

He wraps his arms around you immediately, and the tension eases from his shoulders, as if he's relieved you're letting him touch you at all.

You'd ask yourself again how you hadn't realized your feelings until now, but you guess it doesn't matter anymore. He squeezes you, burying his face in your hair, and you try to remind yourself that he isn't doing it romantically. You take advantage of the closeness regardless, wrapping your arms around his waist to squeeze him right back.

After a few moments, Sam raises his head just enough to whisper.

"Dar-," he cuts himself off and starts over, beginning with your name instead. His voice is pained.

"I'm so sorry I forced you to do that. I should have thought of a different solution, or let you hide and get caught myself," he leans back then, raising his hands to cup your cheeks so you meet his eyes.

"After this is all over, I'll leave you alone, okay? I promise, you won't have to see me unless it's absolutely necessary."

You blink. What in the galaxy did he mean? You wouldn't have to see him...?

You analyze the look in his eyes. He seems overwhelmed with guilt, but why? Unless he... unless...

You grasp his wrists and pull them away from you, stepping back.

"You knew? You knew and you did it anyway?"

He knew you were in love with him and still kissed you? Still teased you the way he had the entire mission? 'I'm so sorry' wasn't good enough for a betrayal like that. No wonder he felt guilty. You run your hand through your hair and turn towards the bed, grabbing your pajamas before storming towards the bathroom. How could he?

You toss a, "yeah, keeping your distance would be nice," as you pass him, but when you slam the bathroom door, you again miss his expression, a confused look on his face.

--------

The next day is filled with tension. You wake up in a similar position as the previous mornings, but you get out of bed immediately, not caring if you wake him up.

He tries to catch your attention, but you ignore him.

He'd known you loved him. He'd known and still chose to make out with you? To hold you against him and sigh your name and call you 'Baby' and...

This whole week must have been a sick game to him. You knew he was older than you, you were shocked for the few moments you thought he returned your feelings, but you had never known him to be cruel. It was a complete invasion of a relationship you had long considered precious. A complete betrayal of who you thought he was.

He gets up with a defeated sigh and walks to the bathroom to get changed.

When he gets out, you brush past him without a word to get changed yourself, fuming.

You pack up to leave in silence and only put on a happy, loving persona when you go to the front desk to check out.

The same woman from the week before beams at you, either unable to sense the tension or too polite to address it.

"Did you two have a good vacation? I hope everything was to your liking!" Your smile is strained, but you agree that it was.

It isn't her fault Sam's a scumbag.

After checking out, you board your ship and start the trek back to Jemison.

It takes a few grav jumps, but you make it to orbit fairly quickly. You're thankful that at least the end of this horror show of a weekend had been peaceful. Just when you move to start the landing sequence, however, the alarm lights of your ship begin to blare, the words "ALERT. UNAUTHORIZED DOCKING." appearing in big red letters across your navigation screen.

You unbuckle and stand as quickly as you can before running towards the back of the ship where your docking station is. You crouch behind one of your storage boxes and take out your pistol, readying yourself for a fight. Sam is crouched behind the crate across from you. He nods grimly when you meet his eyes.

The airlock blocking the unknown ship from reaching you opens with a hiss and 8 Crimson Fleet pirates land on your deck with a clang. You immediately aim and fire, taking one out with a bullet to the head. That left 7. Sam stands and lets off two shots of his shot gun, each one taking out a pirate. 5. You stand from your hiding place again, and take out 2 more in rapid succession with a shot to the chest and the neck, respectively. 3. The pirates are returning fire, but their aim isn't as accurate as yours. Still, a broken clock is right twice a day. One of the pirates shoots, and the bullet zips past you, grazing your arm and leaving you bleeding. You let out a pained yell, and fire a shot back, taking him out. That left only 1. You take a breath and aim carefully again before shooting. The bullet hits its mark, and the last pirate falls. 0. You start to step forward to see what valuables the pirates had on them, but a pained wheeze coming from Sam's direction stops you.

He's on the ground, hand pressed tightly against his stomach, back against the ship wall. He's breathing, but each inhale is shallow. Scarlet blood is already seeping out onto the surrounding floor. Sam was... he was...

You dive forward, landing hard on your knees. You move his hands and see an enormous gash in his side. You rip your jacket off and push against the wound as hard as you can, trying to stop the blood flow. He winces at the added pressure. When you mutter an apology, Sam shakes his head at you.

"No... I'm sorry, Darlin'. I heard you get hurt and I got distracted. I sh... Should have paid better attention. The snake had just enough time to throw a knife before you got to him." Every word is stunted, every syllable pained.

You lean up to press a kiss to his forehead and apply more pressure to his side. "Don't try to talk, okay? Everything is gonna be alright. I just need to find an emergency kit" You push hard on your jacket, and when he sucks in harshly through his teeth, you wince with him.

You can tell he's lost a lot of blood; his face is getting paler by the second. An emergency kit is the only thing that could save him now, so you leave him to sprint to the crate behind you and grab one, ripping it open while you run so you're able to apply it the second you're back at Sam's side.

You remove your jacket, now soaked in Sam's blood, and press the kit to the wound. When it starts to knit Sam's skin back together, you look up to see how Sam is doing.

His eyes are lidded and hazy. When you see them start to close, you grab his face in both hands, shaking him back awake. His eyes flutter back open, and he looks at you with dazed eyes.

"You have to stay awake for me, okay? I've gotta let the emergency kit work but then I'm gonna get you to the New Atlantis Reliant Medical. Please, just... Just stay awake for me."

It isn't until Sam sluggishly raises a hand to wipe at your cheek that you realize you're crying. You know he's getting his blood on your face, but you couldn't care less. You cover his hand with yours to keep his palm there.

You keep talking, trying to get him to focus.

"Think about Cora. You don't want to leave your little girl here by herself, do you? You've gotta stay awake for her and the rest of Constellation. You're the heart of us, you gotta come home."

The emergency kit takes about 3 minutes to fully stitch Sam's wound up, and you talk to him the entire time, shaking him by the shoulders every time he starts to drift again.

When the emergency kit finally falls to the floor, the job finished, you sigh in relief. You don't want to leave his side, but you know he needs better care than what you have onboard. You run over to the navigation table and set the ship onto autopilot so it will land itself on Jemison without you guiding it. You grab the hand held communications allay as well before running straight back to Sam.

You sit on the floor next to him, and he immediately shifts, slowly and weakly moving to lay down, resting his head in your lap. You let him sleep, knowing he's out of immediate danger now that the emergency kit was finished. You run your fingers through his hair with one hand while setting up the distress beacon to broadcast the need for medical aid with the other, humming to him.

You're in the same position when the medics board. He's asleep, and their scans say he's stable. They try to tell you to stay behind, find another way to the hospital, but you refuse. You aren't leaving him for a second.

You sit next to him the entire ride there, holding his hand in both of yours, trying to remember how to breathe. They begin a synthetic blood transfusion the second he's in his own room, and you don't leave then either. Medics try to pull you away when they see your still bleeding arm, but you just grab Sam's hand tighter and insist they let you stay. You dig your free hand's fingers into the mattress next to his body as they stitch up your wound, but you still don't let go of his hand.

You don't leave his side once, barely glancing up when the rest of Constellation comes. Sarah tries to convince you to lay down, but you refuse. Cora sits with you for a while, the only one able to make you look away from him for a moment to stumble and cry your way through an apology, before going back to the Lodge with the rest of the group to sleep for the night. You remain unmovable. You aren't leaving until he wakes up.

You don't know exactly how long you stay there waiting. Sam keeps turning in his sleep at random intervals, clearly suffering. The hospital gave him all of the pain medicine they could, but even New Atlantis's most advanced tech couldn't completely numb a recently stitched wound. When the sky has fully darkened, you feel your eyelids start to droop. You fight it as long as you can, but eventually you succumb to sleep, arms resting on Sam's hospital bed, his hand still tight in yours.

------

TW Free Summary: Reader returns from crying, and she misunderstands Sam, assuming he knows about her feelings and had teased her all week anyway. They check out of the hotel and start heading back to the Lodge. When they arrive over Jemison, Scarlet Fleet pirates board the ship. Sam and Reader kill them all, but one of them severely wounded Sam. Reader stabilizes him with an Emergency Kit and then gets him to the hospital. The chapter ends with her asleep next to his bed, holding his hand.

------

Chapter Seven: Illumination

[marvel-starwarsfangirl]

"Ahsoka" Review

Lars and Eman were perfect as Thrawn and Ezra. They are those characters and I will not take criticism. More of my thoughts below.

Overall, I give this show an 7.5/10. I enjoyed it more than Mando S3, BoBF, and Obi-Wan Kenobi, but not as much as Andor or the first 2 seasons of Mando. As a Rebels fan, I was overjoyed to see my fave characters like Hera and Sabine return. Just seeing them warmed my heart. When Thrawn showed up, my heart leaped out of my chest. I could not believe that I was seeing Mitth'raw'nuruodo himself in live-action.

Okay, I'm just going to put my Thrawn takes out there (please do not come after me. This is my opinion and I respect anyone who disagrees):

I love Canon Book Thrawn so much. I admire him. I relate to him. I love him. Thrawn in the Canon books is amazing. I enjoy his relationships with Thalias, Eli, and Ar'alani. I love how he mentors Che'ri and Eli. I love that he seeks to protect his people. I love how he is an art nerd and has the craziest plans.

But in "Ahsoka," every time he said "long, live the empire," I wanted to toss my screen. I understand he was closer to his Legends counterpart and I am still excited to see where his character goes I just miss his canon book version.

That being said, I LOVED Lars as Thrawn. There is no doubt in my mind that he IS Thrawn. Voice aside, everything from his mannerisms to composure was perfect. I can't picture anyone else in this role nor do I want anyone else. Lars is able to capture Thrawn's subtle expressions so perfectly and I had a blast watching him every time when he was on screen.

Moving on

Of the new characters, Baylan Skoll was my favorite. Ray Stevenson portrayed him with such grace and elegance. He was mysterious and much welcomed addition to Star Wars. I thought his philosophy was unique and I appreciated that he wasn't an all-out bad guy. I do hope they continue his story and not drop it completely. Rest in peace Ray.

Honestly, I felt that Shin wasn't explored enough for me to really enjoy her. I think she is interesting and there's a lot of potential regarding her inner conflict. I hope season 2 really delves into that. Why did she join Baylon? What power does she seek?

Morgan and the Nightsisters were just really cool to me. The magic they utilized was awesome and the rise of the zombie troopers was spooky.

Also, the music! The Kiners really popped off. I genuinely loved the end credits theme so much. That and the integration of themes were great.

However, I am not a fan of Sabine being force-sensitive. It doesn't make sense in my opinion. It was never hinted at in Rebels and her relationship with Ahsoka feels kinda shoehorned in. I wish we saw what led to her becoming Ahsoka's apprentice. Sabine is already a cool character. Why does she need the force?

Ahsoka in the earlier episodes also was kinda bland. But after episode 5, she felt more like herself. I get that she's not going to be the same as her younger self, but she always had a warmth to her, even when she was serious and I missed that. Rosario still killed it though. I really enjoyed episode 5 with the Clone Wars live-action representation. I know some people really want that but I think it should stay animated.

The lore with the new galaxy was also really cool. It opens the doors to so much storytelling and I love the impact it will have on our heroes. It seems that the Nightsisters and the Mortis gods came from there.

Action was cool, I miss my space husbands, Mon Mothma was cool, and I do think they should stop using the dome for many shots.

Overall, a fun time and I'm excited for what comes next.

[amandaoftherosemire]

Second Sight -- Part Seventeen

Fandom: Marvel Avengers AU/MCU AU

Pairing: Loki Odinson X fem!Reader

Characters: Loki Odinson

Author: @amandaoftherosemire

Rating: Mature

Word Count: 4,385

Format: Series WIP

Warnings: Language

Summary: Loki takes you on a long overdue honeymoon. On another world, he shows you wonders like none before. During your adventures in the wider universe you see a whole new side of him.

A/N: I don’t know if it’s the weather or what, but I’m doing pretty good these days. I’m steadily working away at Second Sight here, and I’ve had plot bunnies popping up all over. I’m just putting post-its on their heads for now because I am committed to completing this story. It’s so annoying that knowing what happens next doesn’t mean anything if I don’t get the words down to explain it to anyone else. Can you guys believe they don’t simply appear without any effort on my part? Insulting.

<<Part Sixteen here

Second Sight Part Seventeen

Your heart already beating fast in anticipation, you opened the front door to your apartment to the sound of Loki cackling in dark triumph. The sight of him there on your couch was incongruous, the head to toe black and green leather contrasting sharply with the mundanity of an IKEA love seat. Though you were exceedingly excited to finally be accompanying Loki into the more dangerous parts of the galaxy, you couldn’t help but worry that you might appear equally mundane amongst the sights that suited him better.

Not that you could dwell on the idea when his eyes snapped to you and heated with desire. He'd been absent for a few days while he arranged this trip to some new planet whose name you'd forgotten, if he’d ever bothered to tell you, but whose delights Loki had already promised would be beyond your wildest dreams. He had only given you hints of the hedonistic pleasures you had waiting for you, but you knew he was plotting to astound you. Your already racing heart seemed to leap in your chest when he stood quickly and crossed to you in a burst of enthusiasm.

"What are you laughing at?" A smile was tugging at the corner of your mouth as you hung your purse on the hook by the door and dropped your keys in the little bowl on the table underneath it. You couldn't help it; he was at his most light-hearted and carefree when he laughed with such wild enjoyment. You knew he was also at his most dangerous, but you thought it was likely this side of him that had made you fall in love in the first place.

Loki's eyes were sparkling and his grin flashing wickedly as he wrapped his arms around your waist. His mouth found yours and took you into a long, slow, sweet kiss. Ever since he'd come back into your life, he'd greeted you like this after any absence longer than a few hours. Never the sort to fawn, he still made you feel like the most loved and desired woman in the universe when he kissed you as though relieved to see you again, every time he saw you again.

Your lips were parted in surprise when his met them and the taste of him had your eyes fluttering closed as you let him fold you close. You wrapped your arms around his neck and hummed in pleasure as you leaned into his chest.

"Finally," he said when he released your lips. "I thought you'd never get here." He was tempted, as he always was, to drag you back into the space between moments where he could make love to you at his leisure. If he hadn’t already made plans to drown you in sensation on a pleasure planet, he would have given in.

"I missed you, too," you replied drily before drawing his mouth back to yours to kiss him again, adoring him. You could practically feel him vibrating in excitement, the energy of his exuberant mood passing from his lips to yours. You pulled away to laugh. "I take it you're ready to go."

"I am," Loki grinned back at you, his eyes shining with glee as he glanced back at the television, "though I was unusually entertained by Midgard today." After snooping through your things, trying to occupy himself while he waited for you to get home, he'd turned on the TV. He'd been absently flipping channels when he'd come upon a broadcast of a conflict happening on the other side of your world. He'd stopped because he recognized the combatants.

"Ooh, do tell." You rested your head on his shoulder as you fluttered your lashes at him and spoke in a tone acidly sweet. "I love it when you get condescending about my homeworld."

Loki laughed and took your hand to pull you toward the hallway and the portal behind the linen closet door. You pulled back to lock the front door. Since you’d be traveling the cosmos, not lingering in between time and space as you usually did, you wanted to secure the place before you left.

"You know how much I enjoy setting my enemies against one another." Loki let you step away to turn off the lights he’d left on in the kitchen and turned back to the news broadcast still playing softly in the background.

"You've told me. Many times." You lifted your eyes briefly to the heavens in an affectionately resigned kind of way as you flipped the switch and turned back to where Loki was smiling malevolently at the screen.

"I enjoy it almost as much when they start tearing at each other with no assistance from me." He lifted his head to grin at you, his face bright with vicious cheer. There were moments when you remembered he wasn't simply the dangerously pretty prince from another world who'd set your personal world on its head. He was also the villain of the piece, a wicked creature with terrifying appetites.

Why it took everything you had to drag your eyes from his cruel pleasure to look at the television you'd never be able to explain. You knew that you should find this side of him frightening, that the darkness that lurked beneath the charm and swagger should give you pause, but instead you found yourself wanting to make love to him, to balance on the edge of chaos with a creature that could tear you and everything you loved to shreds. That he possessed not only the power but the capacity to do terrible things, but you trusted him to never do them to you, made loving him like an extreme sport.

Your heart raced harder the more evil he looked. You weren't proud of it, but you wouldn't lie to yourself.

Distracted by the sultry warmth pooling in your lower body at the thought of all the wicked things he'd do to you if you asked him, it took you a moment to realize you were watching the various members of the Avengers destroy an airport tarmac in a fight with one another. "Shit," you said, your eyes widening in surprise when what you were looking at truly sank in. "There were rumors Captain America was refusing to sign the Sokovia Accords, but this is nuts."

Feeling like the conflict playing out on the screen was an auspicious omen for tonight's mischief, he pulled you away from the screen, stopping only when you resisted long enough to grab the remote and turn off the TV. "This was inevitable," he gloated, already pleased with his luck and the evening debauchery hadn't even begun. He considered not even cheating when he took you to the gaming tables, his mood was already so high. "I'm simply pleased with my fortune that I was here to witness it."

"You are so unbelievably petty." You shook your head at him as you passed the linen closet to go into your bedroom. He'd turned on the lights in every room of the apartment. "I can't believe you're still holding a grudge. You tried to take over the Earth; they stopped you." Once you'd turned the light out in your bathroom, you stopped only to reach into the bedroom and flip that light off as well. "Let it go."

"How dare they defy my will?" he retorted with a mock glare that did a terrible job of covering his amusement. He tugged you into his arms in the doorway of your bedroom, the sight of the bed giving him thoughts. Temptation was something he was always terrible at resisting, and you were especially tempting when you were teasing him.

"You know how humans are," you retorted with a challenging grin that took Loki's breath. He wondered at the bottomless depths he found in your eyes even as his heart skipped in joy at the sight of fun and mischief sparkling on your face. You lifted your face for his kiss, sighing out a laugh.

"I adore you." He said the words right before he took your mouth in another long, warm kiss. Before he could give in to temptation and lose himself in your warm body, the soft love that cloaked you when he took you in his arms, he took a step back. He kept hold of your hand, however, unwilling to be parted from you. "Come, I long to drown in your eyes in the light of a turquoise sunset."

"That is oddly specific."

Loki pulled you into motion once again, pulling you back toward the portal to his palace where the rest of the preparations for the evening were waiting. "You'll understand soon, once we've left your deary world behind. I'm impatient to show my dark bride all the wonders she deserves."

He grinned, malice sparkling over his face as he drew you to a halt at the open closet door, turning with you at his side. In a practiced move, the two of you stepped through the portal in unison, the many, many times you'd escaped together into his palace creating muscle memory. Once on the other side, you resisted the urge to drag him off to bed, pushed to the edge by the sinister cast to his features. At the heart of it all, you were in love with a criminal. You knew you should worry that you didn't care.

You kept your hands to yourself, at least for the moment, well aware that Loki planned for this first trip to be one of wild delights. You would be shocked if you didn't end the evening well-loved into a deep and comfortable sleep if not fully fucked into a boneless heap.

"Stop talking shit about my planet. You're the one who invaded." You teased him as you walked into the bedroom and began to strip. You needed to change into clothing that wouldn't draw attention at your destination. "You could be a little less condescending about something you obviously covet." Standing in nothing but your bra and underwear, you sneered at him before grabbing the outfit you'd already selected and left draped across the bed when you'd last passed through in preparation for tonight.

Loki watched you shimmy into the emerald green dress with eyes that burned despite the malicious good-humor that animated him. The only thing stopping him from tumbling you back onto the bed and satiating all of this jittery energy was the knowledge that he would have plenty of time to make love to you later, after he'd dazzled all your other senses first. He stayed where he was, leaning in the doorway while he waited for you to finish getting ready.

"Do you have everything?" He asked the question as you walked to the mirror hanging on the wall next to the door where he stood and straightened the dress until it sat properly around your chest and hips. The dress was made of a stretchy yet plush fabric that molded to your body comfortably and with a flattering skim over your curves, somehow without clinging to you. The fabric was something you'd never seen before, something like silk, but also like Lycra with hints of velour, and yet not quite like any of those. Whatever it was, it fit you easily and flattered your body in a way that left you feeling both sexy and secure.

The sleeves were long, but they belled out satisfyingly at the cuffs, where a stripe of deep raven black about an inch wide contrasted with the gem tone of the rest of the dress. The same strip of color accented the boat neck collar and the asymmetrical hem. The pendant Loki had gone to such trouble to replace rested between your breasts and shone with rich beauty. You couldn't be certain about anything when stepping into the wider universe at Loki's side. But by the heat in his eyes and the glow of appreciation in his smile, you could be confident in doing so.

You'd spent some time manipulating the spell on your closet by actively wishing for some bike shorts that would cover your ass in the likely event that you and Loki would need to make a speedy getaway, but also melt away in the likely event that the evening's delights proved too much and Loki made love to you half-clothed in a semi-private place. It wouldn’t be the first time for either.

To your delight, your closet had come through and the shorts under your dress were silky smooth and fastened closed with snaps at the hip, something easily removed if necessary. You needed the little extra protection as the skirt was asymmetrical, long in back, nearly sweeping the floor but cut off above your knees in the front.

To go with the emerald dress, you stepped into soft, over-the-knee leather boots in coal that matched the stripes of color at your cuffs and collar. Only the glint of silver buckles marching up the outside of each broke up the velvety black. You'd opted for the boots because they worked perfectly with the hemline of your dress, but also because they too would come in handy in a 'run for it' moment. You knew Loki too well to assume everything would go to plan.

"You've got your necklace, I see," Loki continued to nag you, despite your serene façade in the face of his fretting. "But what about your ring? Your bracelet and your knife?" Though he'd seen you grab everything, he wanted to instill in you the habit of checking for each of the items you'd need to walk safely through the wider universe. 

"Oh my god!" You rolled your eyes and laughed as you turned toward him, showing him the knife strapped to your thigh with the hands wearing your ring and your bracelet. Unconcerned about the rest of your appearance beyond what you'd already done as only Loki would see your true face, you held out your hand with a taunting smile to go with your retort. "Yes, mom, I have everything. Can we go before you make me put on a coat because it's cold out in space?"

With a sharp tug, you were in his arms and his mouth was taking yours in a warm, happy kiss, his bright mood beaming out of him. The moment had taken him, his three best loves, revenge, mischief, and you, coming together in a dark thrill. A long kiss later, he lifted his head and looked at you, his face soft. His eyes sparkling with affection, the mischievous chuckles that had bubbled in your throat during the kiss forced him to clamp down on his baser urges, the bed behind you still painfully tempting. But he knew that if he took you to bed now, the two of you wouldn't be leaving again any time soon.

He'd waited more than long enough to take you on a real adventure. Instead of backing you into the bedroom, he stepped back, lifting your hand to his lips as he led you back into the study toward the portal he'd already set for this evening's entertainment. At the feeling of your hand trembling ever so slightly in his, he pulled you close and murmured smugly. "I don't think a coat is necessary." With an arrogant grin and a wave of his hand, a portal to a vista the likes of which you'd never seen opened in the far wall. "I do not doubt my ability to keep you warm."

You were having a difficult time believing your eyes. The journey began when you stepped out of the portal in a cliff face on a beach the likes of which you'd never seen. The sand was a soft peach, as fine as sugar. The waves gently lapping at that technicolor shore were equally vibrant, a wild violet that took your breath. The lavender foam that fizzed at your feet made you want to reach out to see if it felt like water from your world. Overhead, puffy pale pink clouds floated across orange skies fading to teal at the horizon.

You stood on those soft sands, the crash of those vivid waves echoing oddly in your ears, and stared out at the stunning view. Your heart was pounding so hard you felt like you'd lost your breath and only the feel of Loki taking your hand in his could begin to break through the trance you'd fallen into. You glanced to your right and caught your breath at the sight of his profile under the soft warm light.

Something about the diffuse light of a pair of far-off suns coming through those pink clouds hit his face differently, made him look younger. You wondered if this was what he'd looked like before he'd discovered the truth about himself and his world turned upside down. When he turned and looked at you, a sweet smile on his face, you fell in love with him all over again.

Loki started to walk along the water, pulling you into step next to him with the hand he had wrapped around yours. You were caught in the myriad sensory experiences bombarding you, like listening to the odd sound of the waves as they pounded the shore. The inside of your nose wrinkled at the scent of strange seas, your eyes dizzied by the eccentric swoops of winged creatures crying overhead as they flew across the sky. Even the air rested on your skin in a peculiar way, as though the atmosphere was heavier, or the gravity of the world wasn’t quite the same as you were used to.

"What do you think, love?" Loki was deeply gratified to see you greedily drinking in everything around you. Your eyes were wide, your breathing fast, your hand holding tightly to his, and the knowledge that he had once again dazzled those bottomless eyes satisfied him in a way little ever had.

You tore your eyes from the gradation of peach skies growing steadily darker as the horizon grew more and more blue as the suns fell toward the sea. You did not understand how such colors were possible, but you also could not deny the sight was breathtaking. The perfection of Loki's features was only highlighted by the soft light coming from those spectacular skies and you couldn't be certain he wasn't even more magnificent than the natural beauty surrounding you.

"I knew you were going to show me something beautiful," you breathed, pulling him to a halt with your hand in his to look him full in the face. "I didn't know it would be you." You let go of his hand to slide your arms around his neck and pull him close for a slow, warm kiss. For a moment, you remembered your life before you'd met him, and the juxtaposition between your life then and now made you a little dizzy.

Loki's eyes had closed when your lips met his, the joy of the feeling making him feel younger than he had since before an ill-fated trip to Jotunheim. So much had happened since that horrible day, so much he'd come to regret over the years, but finding you was a rare bright moment in that time. Being able to share the wider universe with you brought him unmatched joy. Caught in your eyes, he smiled at you with all the wonder you inspired.

"The eyes of the Fey." He hadn't intended to say the words aloud, but they came out of his mouth in a murmur as he marveled at the reflection of those glorious skies in the bottomless pools of your eyes. Under that soft and shimmering light, he could see even more clearly how extraordinary you were, was amazed that he could have ever overlooked you. He didn't know if you had changed, or if you had changed him, not that it mattered in the end.

Loki had been studying but had found no evidence that the Folk had made it back to Midgard in the last few thousand years. Wherever your endless eyes came from, they were too powerful and potent to come from so far back in your ancestry. In addition, even if you could trace your lineage to the Folk, it would not explain all your oddities. Your immunity to his magic was consistent with what he could discover about them, but not your ability to see its symbols and sigils.

"I'm sorry?" A frown line appeared between your brows, confused by the softly spoken words.

Loki didn’t resist the urge to kiss away the small line, not wanting even the hint of distress to cross your face on this evening. He hadn't told you of his conversation with the merchant on Alfheim, keeping his own counsel a long-established habit. As he'd already started the conversation, however, no matter how inadvertent, he wouldn't lie to you now. "Something Audra said when I exchanged your necklace." The eyes in question narrowed on his face, noting the amount of time you'd spent together since he'd brought back the replacement necklace, annoyed that this was the first you were hearing of it. "About the Fair Folk."

"Fair Folk." The words had your head tilting to the side, your annoyance forgotten in the curiosity stoked by his answers. You were fascinated, both by the information and the fact that you weren't having to pry it out of him for once. "Like… fairies? Tinker Bell?"

"No," Loki threw his head back and laughed, then turned and began walking up the beach towards the lights of a dense and vibrant city, "like The Morrigan.” He had a careful itinerary in mind, designed to ease you into the exotic and exciting. He wanted to give you the night of your life, delirious in the moment, like a man on his honeymoon.

"Isn't that a Celtic goddess?” You would be only mildly surprised to find that yet another set of gods was based on real beings. Based on the strange cults that cropped up from time to time, it hadn't seemed to you that humans needed even a grain of truth to create a god to worship, but the facts didn’t lie. Perhaps the ones that stood the test of time, the ones whose names were remembered despite the centuries, were more likely to be real.

"I don't know." Loki's brow furrowed as he considered the likelihood that stories about the Folk might have made their way through the centuries in modified form as his own peoples' visits to Earth had shaped northern European mythology. "Did Midgardians worship them as gods also?" He thought perhaps he should pull some works from Midgardian authors, to compare the mythology to the histories already in his library.

"I guess?" You weren't certain you understood what Loki was saying, let alone what he was asking. It sounded like another Earth mythology had a grain of truth in advanced alien visitors, but you weren't well enough versed in any of the subjects at hand to be sure. In any case, you were fully distracted by the way the sky faded from dark peach at the zenith of the sky to the pale pink of the clouds hanging in the sky to the turquoise horizon where a pair of suns dipped lower and lower. "I don't know. What are we talking about?"

Loki slanted you an indulgent look when the two of you reached the path at the top of the beach and you glanced back, the sunset over the lavender ocean once again catching and holding you, pulling you to a stop as the sight filled your vision. He stopped with you, letting you look your fill of the strange sunset. The two of you stood in silent contemplation as you watched the suns slowly sink down until all that was left was a deep blue shimmer under the pinpointed black of a night sky. You turned your eyes back to the lights of the city and the two of you began walking towards them once more.

"The Folk are a powerful and ancient race," Loki continued speaking as though there had been no break in the conversation, and it took you a moment to get your train of thought back on track, "that have not been seen in many centuries, since before I was born. They are the only people the merchant could think of with a weakness to metals from Nidavellir."

Now that the suns had set, the sparkling, shimmering, shifting lights of the city beckoned cheerfully. You were fascinated by the subject at hand, but the sensory overload made it difficult to concentrate on what Loki was telling you. "Why do they have a weakness?"

Loki sneered. He hated to admit it but, "I don't know. Because no one has seen them in centuries, I'd never thought of them. I only recently started my research."

You did some quick mental math, realizing that Loki had had ample time since his visit to Alfheim to give you this information. He had clearly chosen not to, for reasons only he would understand. "But you're just now getting around to telling me?"

"Darling," the indulgent exasperation that colored the endearment made your lips twitch, "why would you not simply be grateful that I told you at all?"

The two of you had gotten close to one of the brightly colored buildings lining the street ahead of you, the eclectic crowd of people moving in and out, threatening to swallow the two of you into their ranks. "Because achieving the bare minimum doesn't merit gratitude?" Your retort came absently, the ornate doors in front of you occupying your attention when you realized they were where Loki was guiding you.

"Not even a little bit?" He laughed, already gratified by the look of wonder on your face as he pulled you into a casino very like and yet nothing like those on Earth. Behind the sprawling gold and brightly lit doors were games that had the same goal as those in Midgard casinos, taking your money, but the games themselves were far more honest and far more violent. He wondered what new expressions he'd see reflected in your bottomless eyes. "That doesn't sound right at all."

Part Eighteen here>>

Taglist:

@hellzzzbelle @cheekygeek05 @bibliophile1773 @thatawkwardlittlefangirl @miraclesoflove @nerdy-bookworm-1998 @destiel-is--endgame @irritated-bisexual @peaceinourtime82 @badassbaker @walkingtravesty97 @fashionworld12 @readermia @fukyouthink @felicityofbakerstreet @lumar014ad @thedistractedagglomeration

[fattestwriting]

Mt. Lady having to regrettably eat an giant octopus villain in her giant form to put him down for good before he destroys the city? (Weight: Blob, Vore: Yes, Gassiness: MAXIMUM.) I'm trying out putting specifications in parenthenses like that to make requests easier and more organic, please tell me if they will work out for you going forward.

(I think the tags are super helpful!)

The city was in ruin as Gigantopus rampaged, his giant form knocking down skyscraper after skyscraper. The only hero within range of the kaiju behemoth was Mt. Lady, but even she was miniscule compared to this thing.

But despite her odds, she leaped into action.

"HEY CUDDLEFACE!"

Mt. Lady began to grow as she ran straight for the huge octopus. She first tried grappling his tentacle before she was thrown off with little effort. The force of the impact sloshed her empty belly around, making it gurgle.

She tried a number of these full frontal assults before frantically coming up with a new plan. This guy had already destroyed the city, no doubt about it, and at his size and his rate of destruction, he could destroy the world. So, Mt. Lady did the only thing she could think to do.

She began eating him. She started at Gigantopus's left most tentacle, shoving the entire thing into her mouth. At first, the cephelapod didn't notice Mt. Lady scarfing him down whole. It wasn't until she realized just how hungry she was and just how filling he would be, and she shrinked down to her normal size, that he felt just how constrained his leg had become. He tried to throw her off again, but that just made her slurp faster. By the time she got to his main body, he was flailing about, desperately trying to kick her off.

When she finished the body and all of the legs and was inching her way towards his head, he began frantically thrashing about in a vein attempt to throw her off.

But ultimately, Mt. Lady won. She ate Gigantopus.

After she finished eating the villain, she noticed two things.

One: Her stomach was as big as the city she had tried to protect.

And Two: The squid man wasn't agreeing with her.

She tried to massage her belly, but she couldn't reach enough of it to make a dent. She transformed into her large form only to find she had now crushed even what was left of the city, and she was getting nowhere with her soothing. That was until-

*PPPPPPPPFFFFFFFFFFFTTHTHTTHTHTHTHTHRRRRRRRLLLLLLT*

From her enormous ass rang a truly devastating fart. She had been worried about Gigantopus ending the world, meanwhile a single of her farts had just killed every single inhabitant on the planet. The force of the noxious green winds that eruptes from Mt. Lady's ass sent fractures across the entire world, shattering it into billions of itty bitty pieces, all surrounded by a thick and palpable miasma of Mt. Lady's stink. It smelt of rotting fish, which is rather fitting considering it's source.

Mt. Lady was mortified by her actions, as even from her vantage point atop a hundred mile tall stomach, she could see the devestation that wraught the Earth. But she didn't wallow in the death of her species and home planet for too long. She was a charismatic young woman after all!

"That felt good! There's no one around to tell me not to, so I might as well let loose a little harder!"

*PPPPPLLLLLLLTHHHHHHHUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRTTT*

Her next fart was all kinds of wet, which was fitting for the gust of wind that would not only snuff out the sun but the whole Milky Way Galaxy. Planet by planet, her one wave of gas destroyed and left nothing but unknowable stink in its wake. Where once there was a thriving planet with millions of years of history and culture, and billions of planets stars moons and other celestial bodies, there was now just one city sized girl, who's stomach still wasn't quite feeling right.

[riffingtheverse]

"Your wife,” said Arthur, looking around, “mentioned some toothpicks.” He said it with a hunted look, as if he was worried that she might suddenly leap out from behind a door and mention them again.

Wonko the Sane laughed. It was a light easy laugh, and sounded like one he had used a lot before and was happy with.

“Ah yes,” he said, “that’s to do with the day I finally realized that the world had gone totally mad and built the Asylum to put it in, poor thing, and hoped it would get better.”

This was the point at which Arthur began to feel a little nervous again.

“Here,” said Wonko the Sane, “we are outside the Asylum.” He pointed again at the rough brickwork, the pointing, and the gutters. “Go through that door” — he pointed at the first door through which they had originally entered — “and you go into the Asylum. I’ve tried to decorate it nicely to keep the inmates happy, but there’s very little one can do. I never go in there myself. If I ever am tempted, which these days I rarely am, I simply look at the sign written over the door and I shy away.”

“That one?” said Fenchurch, pointing, rather puzzled, at a blue plaque with some instructions written on it.

“Yes. They are the words that finally turned me into the hermit I have now become. It was quite sudden. I saw them, and I knew what I had to do.”

The sign read:

“Hold stick near center of its length. Moisten pointed end in mouth. Insert in tooth space, blunt end next to gum. Use gentle in-out motion.”

“It seemed to me,” said Wonko the Sane, “that any civilization that had so far lost its head as to need to include a set of detailed instructions for use in a package of toothpicks, was no longer a civilization in which I could live and stay sane.”

He gazed out at the Pacific again, as if daring it to rave and gibber at him, but it lay there calmly and played with the sandpipers.

“And in case it crossed your mind to wonder, as I can see how it possibly might, I am completely sane. Which is why I call myself Wonko the Sane, just to reassure people on this point. Wonko is what my mother called me when I was a kid and clumsy and knocked things over, and sane is what I am, and how,” he added, with one of his smiles that made you feel, Oh. Well that’s all right then. “I intend to remain."

So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish (The 4th Book in the increasingly inaccurately named Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Trilogy) by Douglas Adams

this paper came with a box of jars at work I had to put together and I'm kind of obsessed with it. i might frame this and put it on my wall

[starseedfxofficial]

Introduction: The Force is Strong With This One Have you ever felt like your trades are destined for defeat, like an amateur Jedi swinging their lightsaber against a Sith Lord? Well, there’s a secret indicator in the galaxy of Forex that’ll help you tap into the real force of the market. We're talking about the Force Index, and today we’re going to apply it to everyone's favorite love-hate relationship: the US Dollar (USD) and Japanese Yen (JPY). In this comprehensive guide, I’ll not only share how to wield the Force Index but also dive deep into advanced tactics, so you can avoid the common pitfalls of the USD/JPY galaxy and discover some unexpected tricks hidden in plain sight. This isn’t your average analysis—it’s filled with unconventional approaches, a bit of humor, and insights to make your journey through the Forex universe profitable and (dare I say) fun. Force Index: The Jedi Tool for Trading the USD/JPY Before we leap into the advanced techniques, let’s understand what the Force Index really is. Imagine the Force Index as Yoda’s mind—capable of gauging the market’s strength based on momentum and volume. Essentially, the Force Index helps you figure out when there’s strong buying or selling activity in the USD/JPY market, which can be critical for making those tough trading decisions. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t march into a crowded cantina without knowing who’s a bounty hunter and who’s just ordering blue milk, right? The Force Index gives you that awareness in the USD/JPY market—it’s your compass for identifying potential shifts in market power. Hidden Secrets of the Force Index: Going Beyond the Basics - Read Between the Candles - The Force Index is particularly useful for assessing the strength behind price movements, but its true power lies in pairing it with Japanese candlesticks. A classic mistake is to focus only on whether the Force Index is positive or negative. But here’s a nugget of wisdom: watch how the Force Index behaves around Doji candles. A Doji with a declining Force Index might signal that a major reversal is just around the corner—just like that “plot twist” when you thought the hero was doomed but instead gets a lightsaber upgrade. - The Trend Sneak Peek—The Forgotten Strategy - Most traders stick to the old-school trendline strategy, but what if I told you the Force Index could actually predict trends before they form? When trading the USD/JPY, notice when the Force Index diverges from price action—if price is making new highs, but the Force Index isn’t following suit, it’s a classic sign that momentum is weakening, which often leads to a reversal. Kind of like that feeling when your friend says, “Trust me, I know a shortcut,” and you just know it's going to be a dead end. - Combining Force with PMI: The Double Impact - Want to make the Force Index even more powerful? Pair it with the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for both the US and Japan. The PMI gives you a sneak peek into economic health—if the Japanese PMI drops unexpectedly while the US PMI is skyrocketing, and the Force Index confirms strong bullish activity, you’ve got a killer setup for going long on USD/JPY. It’s like combining a lightsaber and a blaster—why settle for just one when you can have both? How to Stay on the Winning Side: Tips & Tactics for USD/JPY - Ninja Moves for Stop-Loss Placement - Picture this: You’ve found an incredible entry point thanks to the Force Index, but your stop-loss is where every other trader’s is. You know what happens next—the market dips, nabs your stop, and rockets back up. It’s like playing hide-and-seek, and you're always the first one found. To outsmart the competition, set your stop-loss using a Force Index threshold. For instance, place stops just outside a critical Force Index divergence—this keeps you safer than the average trader who’s merely looking at price levels. - Expert Insights: From the Jedi Masters of Forex - According to Boris Schlossberg, a renowned Forex strategist, “The key to trading USD/JPY effectively lies in understanding the shifting power dynamics between US and Japanese monetary policies”. Now, if you combine that wisdom with the Force Index, you gain insight not just into the economic impact but into the intensity of market reactions. - Kathy Lien also points out that USD/JPY often responds to market sentiment shifts, particularly during major economic announcements. Use the Force Index to gauge how investors are truly feeling when those announcements drop—it’s like seeing beyond the Jedi mind tricks. Why Most Traders Get It Wrong (And How You Can Avoid It) - Ignoring the Power of Divergence - Divergence is an often-overlooked element of the Force Index. The classic mistake here is focusing purely on price. Let’s get real: trading without considering divergence is like baking without tasting the batter first—you’re missing key ingredients. If you notice that the USD/JPY is trending up but the Force Index is losing steam, take it as a serious warning. Divergence is your early bird alarm that something might be off. - Being Too Static With Entry Points - Here’s a little-known tactic: Instead of jumping in as soon as you see a Force Index spike, consider waiting for a second confirmation. This could be a retest of a recent high or a key resistance level. As Paul Tudor Jones once said, “Losers average losers��—it pays to be patient for the right confirmation when the Force Index is involved. Jumping in too quickly is like entering hyperspace without checking the coordinates—risky, and you may end up in a meteor field. The Unconventional Approach: Position Trading With the Force Index If you’re tired of scalping and looking for a more strategic, less stressful way to trade the USD/JPY, consider position trading using the Force Index. Unlike day traders who stress over every tick, position traders focus on broader movements—which makes the Force Index particularly useful for spotting momentum buildups. When the Force Index consistently aligns with macroeconomic data (such as a positive US GDP report and rising PMI), it’s time to consider holding a long-term position. Think of this as buying a bottle of wine you know will age well. Sure, it takes time, but the rewards are worth it. The Force Index helps confirm whether that trend is just getting started or if it’s about to fizzle out—giving you an edge over the competition that’s constantly jumping in and out. Avoiding the Dark Side: Risk Management Strategies Let’s get real: no one likes talking about risk management—it’s the vegetables on the plate of trading. But just as Yoda says, “Fear is the path to the dark side,” poor risk management is the path to an empty wallet. When using the Force Index, always set dynamic stop-losses that adjust based on volatility. During high-impact news, when the Force Index is spiking, consider widening your stop-loss to avoid getting taken out by market noise. Another trick is to scale in and out of positions. Instead of entering a full position all at once, enter part of it when the Force Index shows a clear signal, and add to it as the market moves in your favor. This way, you can capitalize on a strong trend without risking everything in one shot—after all, even a Jedi doesn’t swing their lightsaber without sizing up their opponent first. The Force is with You: Wrapping Up The Force Index isn’t just another indicator; it’s the secret sauce that can turn a good USD/JPY trade into a great one. From combining it with PMI for double-barrel accuracy to using divergence as your early warning system, there’s plenty of Jedi-level tactics to explore here. Remember, trading is a journey—sometimes you hit a bump, sometimes you find yourself in an epic trend that makes you feel invincible. Ready to take your Forex trading to the next level? Get exclusive access to economic indicators, smart trading tools, and join a community of elite traders at StarseedFX Community. Let’s keep the force with us—and may your pips be plentiful. —————– Image Credits: Cover image at the top is AI-generated Read the full article

[reverend-dog]

The Call

Strawberry-flavored jelly leaked out of the glazed puck that had been a doughnut at eight AM, bright red and congealed like low-quality stage blood. Clarice had felt very accomplished to have snatched the last jelly-filled. Had she known in advance what the day would bring, she’d have chosen a bagel. At least if a bagel got stale, you could nuke it back to softness.

“Ooo!” cried a voice next to Clarice’s desk. “Jelly-filled!”

“Knock yourself out,” Clarice recommended, eyes flicking between her monitor and the stack of orders next to her keyboard.

“Perhaps later,” the voice changed its mind. “Business first.”

Clarice tapped an empty spot on her desk, next to the orders. “Just leave ‘em there,” she instructed. “I’ll get to ‘em.”

Clank, which was definitely not a sound made by a pile of paper. Clarice’s attention jerked away from her screen. She stared at the medallion, shaped like an eight-pointed star with a purple crystal in the center, attached to links of what could not possibly be gold. Then she raised her eyes to take in her visitor.

Old, but not decrepit. The wrinkles on her face made her look distinguished, or maybe it was how she stood so straight in her jewel-crusted gown. “I am Valoris,” she declared, “and I’ve come to bring you your destiny.”

Clarice heaved a sigh. “I don’t have time for this,” she chided, and slapped the pile of orders. “See all this? This is just this morning. The afternoon rush is still going on, and it’s going to make this look like nothing. So why don’t you take your jokes and your props,” she grabbed the medallion by its chain and lifted it, “and --”

The rush leaped from Clarice’s hand, up her arm, and all through every inch of her. It dragged her to her feet like a marionette, sending her chair skidding out of her cubicle, and dragged her hands over her head, to hang the medallion around her neck. Clarice caught a glimpse of Valoris’ grinning face before her own eyes squeezed shut on a feeling of power, of life so pure, so intense, she could not think of anything to compare it to.

The light faded, and Clarice stared down at herself. She still wore the blouse and skirt chosen at random from her closet that morning, but now they strained to contain a body that swelled with muscle. She felt taller too, judging by how short her cubicle walls now appeared. The purple gem in the center of the medallion glowed.

“You see?” Valoris beamed. “Your drab, old life is gone. The galaxy needs you, the medallion has chosen you. Will you answer the call?”

Clarice looked around the room. Her coworkers peered over their own tiny cells, the braver ones stared openly. They all looked so tiny, so unable to fend for themselves. They needed a protector.

She smiled down at Valoris. “I will,” she declared. “But only if I can bring my dog.”