#I am glad that I will not be at our pride this year... My name was on the f booth the last 2 times

[damiemontclair]

When no kink at pride reaches doxxing of an organisation whose purpose is purely educational is when I know it what the right call not to show my face there...

[navybrat817]

Feel the Pulse Beat: Intro

Pairing: Old Money!Bucky Barnes x Female!Reader

Summary: Bucky didn't want to go to Tony's club, but he'll be glad he did by the end of the night.

Word Count: Almost 2.3k

Warnings: Swearing, frenemy behavior, family issues, bit of world building, Bucky Barnes (he's a warning, okay?)

A/N: Oh, look, lovelies! A new AU no one asked for. ❤️ Not beta read and written on my phone, so any and all mistakes are my own. Divider by the talented @saradika-graphics . Please follow @navybrat817-sideblog for new fics and notifications. Comments, reblogs, feedback are loved and appreciated!

“Why am I even here?” Bucky asked, eying the neon sign for Extremis. The one and only Tony Stark owned the club. A mix of people in clothes that ranged from expensive suits to revealing dresses stood in line with the hopes of getting in. “Because I have a car I could be working on as we speak.”

He could fit in at clubs, but he’d take greasing up his hands over dressing up any day. With cars, he didn’t have to pretend to be anything other than himself. There was no need to impress people who didn’t care about him beyond his name or fortune.

Steve, his best friend, sighed. “Because we promised Tony we’d show up. He’s our friend.”

“You promised, not me. He’s more your friend than mine and he acts like I wronged him in another life or something,” Bucky said. Tony didn't outright hate him, but didn’t seem to care for him and loved to give him a hard time. “I doubt he’ll notice if I skip this.”

“He will notice and he’s not that bad,” Steve said, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I swear, between Tony and Sam, it’s like you go out of your way to not be friends with our friends.”

Bucky didn’t comment on Sam for the time being. “Not that bad? Tony has the biggest ego in the city. I’m surprised he didn’t call the place 'Anthony’s' or plaster his name all over the building,” he said, tilting his head. “Given the outside, it wouldn't surprise me if the inside was just as bad.”

Steve snorted, used to his humor after all these years. “You’re in a mood,” he said. Bucky didn’t deny it. “Let me guess: another argument with your dad?”

Bucky hesitated. “What else is new?” He wished he could clock the guy, but he was his old man.

George Barnes couldn’t wrap his mind around why his son preferred cars to the boardroom and networking. Or why he chose to “destroy” his body with tattoos. Or why he wasn't dating an elitist. It was like he couldn’t stand that Bucky wasn't just another version of him. Thank God for his mom who encouraged him to forge his own path and respected his choices.

And, yes, she occasionally allowed him access to the family funds if he wanted or needed them because she adored him.

“I'm sorry,” Steve said, clapping him on the shoulder.

They had grown up together, which meant they either witnessed or heard the ups and downs of their families. Steve wasn’t just his best friend, he was like a brother to him. He knew how his dad could get. And his dad was a good man most days, but he could also be a real pain in the ass.

“Don’t be. Not your fault,” he replied, looking at the sign again. “Never is.”

“It may not be my fault, but it doesn't mean I don’t care,” he said. He was lucky to have a friend like him. “Come on.”

Bucky felt eyes on them as they bypassed the line and approached the man at the door. Even if their names weren't on the list, the confidence he and his best friend carried would've been enough to pique the security’s curiosity. They also had enough money in their pockets to not necessarily flaunt their wealth, but to show that they had it. The same applied to their suits.

“Steve Rogers,” his best friend stated with just the right touch of pride. It was a fine line to walk between confidence and arrogance and he did it well. “And Bucky Barnes.”

“You’re on the list, but those aren’t the names the boss gave me and he won't let you in without them,” he said, crossing his arms over his broad chest.

“Aww, that’s too bad.” Bucky shrugged. It was the kind of shit Tony liked to pull and he wasn't in the mood to play. “Let’s go, punk.”

Steve held out an arm to stop him. “Just wait, jerk,” he said, shaking his head as he looked at the bouncer. “Golden Boy and Tinman?”

The bouncer to his credit looked thoroughly unimpressed instead of amused when he stepped aside to let them in. Bucky grit his teeth anyway, anger coursing through his veins. “That fucking-”

“Hey. It’s just Tony being Tony.” Steve trying to placate him wasn't working. “It’s better than Cyborg, right?”

Tinman. Cyborg. Tony tried to say the nicknames were because his left sleeve looked like a metal arm, but the man said in passing once that he was cold. Heartless. Just because Bucky didn’t show his emotions to people he didn't care for didn’t mean he didn’t have them.

“Tony being Tony doesn’t give him a pass to be a dick, Golden Boy,” he said, holding up a finger. “One hour. You get one fucking hour.”

“Please, don’t call me that,” Steve begged. The man with a heart of gold to match his hair and a pair of fists ready to strike for anyone who needed defending. Everyone in their circle looked to him as a man who always tried to do the right thing. “And fine. One hour.”

As they walked further into the club, vibrant energy surrounded them. Red and yellow lights cast a warm glow to create a welcoming ambience, while plush seats and sleek decor added a touch of glamor and sultriness. The bar, illuminated and inviting, beckoned patrons to select their drinks. The music was perfectly balanced, not too loud or overwhelming, allowing for easy conversation amidst the lively atmosphere.

Bucky didn’t want to give Tony too much credit and make his head swell more, but it was a nice place.

“So, where are we sitting?” He asked.

As if on cue, a woman in a smart black dress approached. Not a single hair out of place. “Pepper, good to see you,” Steve smiled at her. Bucky recognized her now. Tony’s personal assistant, had been for years. She did her job well and the man’s schedule and life would fall apart if he didn’t have her around.

“Good to see you, too. And you two are the first to arrive,” she smiled. “Right this way, please.”

Bucky looked around again as Pepper led them to a quiet VIP area flanked by a couple of guards. The space was just as bright as the main room, but above the center table hung a large, modern crystal chandelier: a focal point that hinted at the Stark fortune. The small stage set up at the back of the room surprised him. Was it for performers or merely for show?

“About time you showed up,” a voice interrupted his thoughts. Tony Stark, the man himself, sat in the middle of a sofa with a glass of whiskey in hand. With his three piece suit and perfectly trimmed dark goatee, he looked very much like the king of one of his many castles. Even had on a pair of his signature sunglasses because who didn't like wearing sunglasses indoors? “Or did it take you old men a while to figure out the names? Told Sy not to let you in without them.”

An apologetic look crossed Pepper’s face. “For the record, I told him not to do that,” she said, gesturing for them to sit. Bucky opted to sit in a chair that he didn't want to admit was extremely comfortable. “But he never listens to me.”

“You still love me,” Tony called after her as she left the area. “No hard feelings about the nicknames, right? It’s all in good fun.”

Bucky huffed as Steve took a seat beside Tony, effectively dividing them. “First the nicknames, and now you call us old men? You look older than we do,” Bucky said, pointing to Tony’s hair. “In fact, I think I see some gray you missed on your dye job.”

As Bucky got older, he had come to love the gray in his own beard and hair. It was a good look. Maybe the right girl would appreciate it.

Tony rolled his eyes. “Barnes. Always a pleasure.”

“Stark,” he said, baring his teeth in a wolfish grin. “Never a pleasure.”

“Cut it out,” Steve chastised, giving Bucky an exasperated look, which only earned him a shrug in response. Did he expect him to play nice when he didn't want to be there? “Tony, the place looks great.”

“Of course it does, Rogers. Did you expect anything less? Though it’s always nice to get a compliment from you.” Tony set his drink down and tapped the screen of his phone, causing the red and yellow lights to switch to blue and white. “That’s your cue, Barnes.”

“Nice lights,” he mumbled, leaning his chin on his hand. One hour…

Tony scoffed. “Would it kill you to give a real compliment, or are you holding back because I own it?”

Bucky narrowed his eyes. “Does my opinion even matter? You already think it’s perfect. I’m sure everyone else has kissed your ass about it, and I don’t feel like chapping my lips.”

Tony sat up straighter. “If I really wanted my ass kissed, I’d call your little sister,” he sneered, nudging Steve’s arm. “She’s free, right?”

“Tony, stop.” Steve warned when Bucky's jaw clenched.

“What?” Tony smirked more. “I heard she just got out of a relationship and maybe I can help her get over that broken heart.”

Bucky almost got out of his seat. Becca was a sweetheart and Tony didn't deserve to breathe the same air as her. “You even think about touching her, I’ll break your fucking-”

“Hey! That’s enough.” Steve sounded pissed off enough that they shut up. “Tony, he’s not trying to be a dick. He just wanted to work on a car tonight. Doesn't mean you need to bring his sister into it,” Steve said to Tony in a calmer tone, giving Bucky another look. “And you know he wouldn't fool around with Becca. You’re letting your fight with your dad get to you.”

Bucky slowly exhaled. “I know.” He felt a pinch of guilt. He had let his dad sour his mood and dismissed Tony’s club when Tony was at least nice enough to extend an invitation. It also wasn't fair to make Steve play referee when he deserved a fun night. “And I think we’re all varying degrees of dicks here.”

Unexpected respect and understanding filled Tony’s eyes, replacing his usual disdain. “Rather tinker with something than hang out here? I get it. And asshole fathers, I get that, too,” he said, downing the remainder of his glass. Bucky had nearly forgotten that Tony had issues with his own dad. “But let’s be serious, we all know I’m the biggest dick here.”

That brought a chuckle out of all three of them. It was the closest thing to an apology. “I would drink to that if I had one,” Bucky joked.

Tony tapped the screen of his phone again in a short pattern and the middle of the table rose up to reveal a decanter and empty glasses. “Top shelf and on the house even though you can afford it.”

“We’re still going to tip. You can give it to the staff working tonight,” Steve offered, pouring each of them a glass and passing one over. “And now that we’ve gotten some of the unpleasantness out of the way, can we get on with the evening? Please?”

The men nodded, but Bucky still needed more than one stiff drink to get him through the hour. At least Tony brought out the good stuff for them to indulge. “I have to ask, where are the rest of your friends?” He expected the VIP section to be overflowing with his usual crowd instead of being nearly empty.

“On their way,” Tony said, waving a hand toward the stage. “I wanted you two to get a private show with my new star because I have a feeling you’ll appreciate her talent more than the others. And when I say this one is special, I mean it. Voice and body of an angel. Or a siren. Whatever you’re into.”

Bucky and Steve exchanged a look. A new star? That was why he wanted them to stop by? “Have you slept with her?” Steve asked pointedly. Bucky almost asked the same question. Tony had a reputation for a reason and being a member of his staff wouldn’t stop him from trying.

“Nope. Not this one. Not for lack of trying,” Tony said, checking the time before the lights dimmed. “She told me to ‘kindly fuck off’ when I hit on her and I gave her a raise because why the hell not?”

Bucky’s eyebrows shot up. “She turned you down? I like her already,” He smirked, instantly intrigued by this mystery woman who didn't fall for Tony’s charms like so many others. “I may even have to buy her a drink.”

“Just wait ‘til you hear her sing, Tinman,” Tony said, resting back against the sofa. “Even you will love her.”

A spotlight illuminated the stage when soft music began to play. The curtain opened wide enough for a stunning figure in a long red dress to step through. Bucky leaned forward in his chair, captivated by your beauty. His heart raced, and his throat went dry as your gaze met his. He tightened his grip on the glass, nearly downing it in one gulp as you moved toward the microphone, but couldn't look away as you smiled.

Where the hell did Tony find someone so enchanting?

Bucky waited with bated breath before you began to sing. One note. That was all it took. He was lost. Gone.

Yours.

Oh, I just had to end the intro there. 😇 I wonder what our reader is like and what she'll think of Bucky. @targaryenvampireslayer @yenzys-lucky-charm @ghotifishreads @tavners @holacia3 a certain edit may come into play later... 😏 Love and thanks for reading! ❤️

Masterlist ⚓ Bucky Barnes Masterlist ⚓ Ko-Fi

[fantasyandshit]

Replaced part two

Omg I’m so upset- it won’t let me tag like anyone with dashes in their name at allll soooo if you commented on that post I am so so so sorry I couldn’t tag you guys

Type: one shot turned more

Part: 2/2

Part 1 here

Masterlist here

Pairing: Azriel x reader/ mystery character x reader

Seriously guys thank you so much- I’m so glad that the first part had so much love and I hope this one is just as good.

“So, what did you need my love?” I lean down to kiss my fiancés temple. He’s stressed, I can tell. His fingers tap away in rhythm with his foot. “Baby- what’s going on? Why are you so stressed?” My hands run down the length of his arms in a soothing motion. “How can I help you?”

The new high lord of autumn’s head meets my shoulder, a small smile gracing his lips. His head raises till his lips meet mine in a soft kiss. “Baby I need you to sit down.” His smile disappears as soon as it came and I frown, moving to the seat on the other side of his desk. I raise my brows expectantly as his hands move to reach mine. “Love- we have a high lords meeting in two weeks time. They have requested it be held here in order to see how I’m handling the court now.”

“Ok? And?”

“Darling I want to introduce you as the new high lady of Autumn. I want you come along.” He sighs, “it means you will have to see all of them again.”

The realization hits me like a ton of bricks. I breath for a moment, thinking about it, it’s been nearly five years since I left, the last time I saw any of them was the battle with Hybern, and even then Eris kept me mostly away from them so that I wasn’t distracted. “I’ll go.”

“Are you sure darling?”

“Very. I want them to see me as the high lady of autumn. Not the girl that left all that time ago.”

He smirks his signature smirk, pride filling his eyes. “Very well. Shall we begin planning?”

———

Everyone has finally arrived- or what is usually everyone, confusion sets in as Eris seems to sit in waiting, an empty chair beside him at the head of the table. “Are we waiting for someone Eris?”

“Yes actually. Shell be here any moment, she likes making an entrance.” Something bothers Azriel with the way the high lord smirks. He didn’t know who was going to walk through that door but he had a feeling he wasn’t going to like it.

The door swings open, a woman stepping through, decked in a gorgeous burnt orange dress, green and gold accents around her body, a golden crown, one looking like leaves woven together rests on her head. As her eyes catch Eris’ she smiles. “Sorry I’m late. Hope you haven’t started without me.” She surveys the room before stepping towards the empty seat. Eris stands, going to pull it out with one hand and take hers on his other. The pause for a moment, facing the table together.

“Everyone. I’d like you to meet my fiance and the high lady of the Autumn court. Some of you may already know her.”

As the female turns to kiss Eris, it clicks for Azriel. “Yn.” He can’t help but gasps and that is when it finally hits the inner circle of the night court.

“Hello guys. Long time no see.”

Cassian speaks this time, his brows furrowed and mouth agape, “you- your with him? Your the high the high lady?”

“Yes, in fact our wedding is next month. I am terribly excited. Especially after being named the high lady of Autumn.” She and Eris sit finally, hands staying tied together

An agony Azriel has never felt tears through him as he stares at his mate. She looks back to him as he gasps, clenching his chest wildly.

“Azriel. I’d like to get through my first meeting as high lady. So if you could stop…flailing. That would be preferred.” Yn clears her throat before turning to the others at the table. “I’ve seen some things. I see Koshei. I thought we took care of our issues with him, however I-“

The meeting continues, the night court still trying to process the news. After the meeting is finished, the high lords are given a walk through of the new Autumn court. “Yn. Yn can we speak please.” It was towards the end of the tour, courts had been led to where they’d be staying, only the inner circle trailed behind, minus Morrigan and Cassian who had been dropped off to their respective rooms.

I choose to ignore the shadowsinger, instead stopping at the next door and turn back to Rhysand and Feyre, “You two will be staying here. This castle works much like the house of wind. It will cater to you, we do tend keep things much warmer here for obvious reasons so if you are uncomfortable with the temperature just say the word and it will be brought down by the house.”

“Goodnight Yn.” I nod before turning back to lead the final male to where he’d be staying, Eris never leaving my side. We barely make it three steps down the hall before I feel Rhsyand pry at my mental walls.

‘What do you want Rhysand.’

‘You should talk to him Yn. He’s been devastated since you left and see you with Eris killed him I-‘

I shut it down. I don’t want to hear some sob story from my mate who didn’t even want me till I was gone. “You will be staying here Azriel. What I said to Rhysand and Feyre goes the same for you.”

Me and Eris turn to leave before I’m grabbed by the arm. “Wait. Yn can we please just talk.”

Eris growls. “Get your filthy hands off my fucking finance.”

The shadowsinger seems to get just as upset, opening his mouth to speak before I rip my arm from his grasp and turn, a glare resting on my features.

“Don’t you fucking dare! You have no right- no fucking right to get angry at my fiancée! Do you understand, you didn’t want me and I don’t fucking want you so go wallow in your self pity but stay the hell away from me!” Eris rubs soothing circles on my arm, a glare that could kill sent towards the shadowsinger as he grabs me, winnowing us to our room.

—————

Sooo I hope this lives up to your guys’ expectations!

[ravenscamander]

To celebrate the one-month anniversary of EPIC: The Circe Saga I present to you:

Moments in EPIC: The Musical that make me go

Mhhhhhhhh

dundundundun dun dun dundundun alright my brothers listen closely

but now we'll be the ones who ~Slayyyyyy~

Penelopeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Penelopeeeeee

And TELEMACHUUUUUUUS

i couLD RAISE HIM AS MY OOOOOOOOOOOWN

The Blood On Your Hands Is Something You Won't Lose, All You Can Choose Is Whose

(literally all of Just A Man, that song will haunt me forever)

(but especially:)

how could I hurt youuuuuu

I'm just a man who's trying to go home even after all the years away from what I've known

I'm just a man who's fighting for his life, deep down I would trade the world to see my son and wife

the choir chorus. Just. All of it.

forGIIIIIIVE MEEEEEEEEEE

forgiiive meee

I'm juuuust aaaaa maaaaaaan

The Full Speed Ahead Instrumental Intro.

Six. Hundred. Men.

600 miles of open seaaaaaaa

But the problem's not the distance (it's what lies in between)

And Ithaca's waitiiiiiiing, my kingdom is waitiiiiiiiiiiiiiing, PENELOPE'S WAITIIIIIIIIIIIING for meeeeeee

That High Note™ on full speed aheeeeeaaaaad

Captain? EURYLOCHUS

Captain?Politeeees

GIVE ME TIL SUNRIIIIIIIIISE AND IF WE DON'T RETUUUUUUUURN

Then 600 men can make this whole place BURN

So full speed aHEEEEEEAAAAAAAAD

WE'RE UP WE'RE OFF AND AWAY WE GO

You can relax my friend (...what)

That High Note™ on Give it a try it's not that hard

STAY BACK (stay back...)

See? This life is amazing when you greet it with open arms (~ahhhhhh~)

A CAVE

East! (That way)

Thank you! (Welcome)

HAVE YOU FORGOTTEN THE LESSONS I TAUGHT YOU

LET. ME. REMIND YOU.

~Goddess of Wisdoooooom~

~Master of Waaaaaar~

i HAD a challenge, a TEST of skill, a magic BOAR only the best could kiiiiill

Little Odysseus's LET'S GO

I can see youuu HOW CAN YOU SEE THROUGH MY SPELL

I was lying! And you fell for my bluff! Hahahaha

Nahhh, don't be modest, I know you're a goddess, so let's be honest you are

ATHENAAA (athena!)

Badass in the arena! Unmatched, witty, and queen of the best strategies we've seen!

The duet harmonies in the second chorus! Fucking superb

Look at all this food! Look at all these sheep!

WHO ARE YOU

YOU KILLED MY SHEEP

banger cello solo

MY FAVOURITE SHEEP

Take from you as you took from meee

theRE'S BEEN A MISUNDERSTANDING

Wine?

A gift from you and a gift from meee

My name is noooobody, Noooooobody, Nooooobody (aka That High Note™ part 3)

I'm so glad we see eye to eye

...what?

WATCH OUT

POOOOOOOLYYYYYYYYYPHEEEEEEEEMUUUUUUUUS

PO!LY!PHE!MUS!

Six Hundred liiiiiives at stake, it's just one liiiiiiiife to take

Stay in his blinds while you striiiiiiike his heels (STRIKE THE HEELS)

Show him that we're deadly! (HAH! HAH!)

SIX HUNDRED LIIIIIIVES AT STAKE IT'S JUST ONE LIIIIIIIIFE TO TAKE (pt. 2 choir version)

*body tumbles across the ground* cap...tain...

banger cello solo pt.2 electric boogaloo

*electric guitar fades in* dundundundundundun dundundundundundun

But captain, what will we do with our fallen friends?

remember them

REMEMBER THEM

(let's kill him!)

Remember them (part 3 choir version)

SCATTER

It was noooooobody, Nooooobody, Noooooobody

If nobody hurt you be silent! (Don't go!)

HAVE YOU FORGOTTEN THE LESSONS I TAUGHT YOU (no.2)

no

No??!!!

What good would killing do? When mercy is a skill more of this world could learn to use?

don't

HEY CYCLOPS

The next time that you dare choose not to spare, remember them! Remember uuuuus! Remember me!

I'm the reigning king of Ithacaaaaaaaa

I am neither man nor mythicaaaaal

IIIIIIII am your darkest momeeeeeent

IIIIII am the infamooouuuuus

Odysseus

(aka the first time our main character gets actually named aka the worst decision ever made by the poor guy)

You were reckless, sentimental at best. That's not a teaching of mine. You've grown soft! Your dead friends can attest! (hey) Put your emotions aside.

That Growl™ on I don't know where I went wrong

That's just like you! Why should I be surprised? Selfish and prideful and vain

You're Not Looking For A Mentor, I'm Not Looking For A Friend

At least I know what I'm fighting for while you're fighting to be known! Since you claim you're so much wiser, why's your life spent all alone? You're alone!

One day, you'll hear what I'm saying, one day, you might understand, one day. But not today for after all you're

JUUUUUUST AAAAAA MAAAAAAAN

OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

*soft piano outro*

*epic horn intro*

*epic trumpet solo*

These waaaaaves and tiiiiiides have grown in strength and siiiiize

Brace for a STOOOOOOOORM (stoooooorm)

The likes of which we've never seen before!

Have them follow my ship, I'll ensure that we'll PREVAIIIIL

At this rate we won't make it out aliiiiiive

~an island in the skyyyyy~

We're gonna shoot for the sky! (what.)

STOOOOOOOOOOOORM, STOOOOOOOOOOOORM (this time with amazing harmonies)

WE'RE SHOOTING FOR THE ISLAND IN THE SKY! IN THE SKYYYYYYYYYYYYY

Please don't tell me you're about to do what I think you'll do

We're in the home of the Wind God! (We don't know for sure.) How many floating islands have you seen before? This is the home of the Wind God! (And what's your plan.) I'm gonna climb to the top and ask 'em for a hand

Have faith friend, we've come this far

Yes, but how much longer til your luck runs out

You rely on wit and people die on it, whooaa

I still believe in goodness

I still believe that we could be kind

Lead from the heart, and see what starts

Thank you for the concern but brother I can assure you, our journey is almost done. I understand that we're tired, I understand that we're fazed. But don't forget how much we already faced!

I took 600 men to war and not one of them died there. In case you needed a reminder.

If you want to talk more, let me pull you aside then. I need to talk to you in private.

Hahaha

I am the wind, twisting and turning

HAHAHA

Keep your friends close and your enemies closer! (Never really know who you can trust)

If they wanna get the bag open you gotta say No Sir (Sometimes killing is a must what)

It's treasure! what.

NO DO NOT.

Everybody listen closely. See how this bag is closed? That's how it's supposed to be.

Cause the end always justifies the means (everything's changed since Polites)

For nine days I've stayed wide awake, tried to make it home with no storm or tidal wave. I remain unopposed, the bag is still closed and I'm getting closeeeer to youuuuuuu (Penelopeeeee) I can't wait to make some new memories (Teleeeemaaaachuuuus) Time for me to be the father I never was

(just keep your eyes open) why are my eyes and my heart and my soul so heavy (just keep your eyes open) I keep on trying to embrace you both why won't you LET MEEEEEEE (Just Keep Your Eyes Open) So much has changed, but I'm the same, yes I'm the SAAAAAAME

Just keep your eyes open, keep your eyes open

Wake up. Wake up, Odysseus, they're opening the bag, WAKE UP

EPIC ORCHESTRA™

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

STOOOOOOOOORM

OOOODYSSEUS OF ITHACA

do you know who I am

*wave sounds*

POSEIDON POSEIDON POSEIDON POSEIDON POSEIDON POSEIDON POSEIDON Poseidon

In all my yeeeaaaars of living it isn't very often that I get pissed off

Iiiiii've been so graaaaacious

That's right, the Cyclops you made blind is mine (no)

I'm left without a choice, and without a doubt, Guess The Pack Of Wolves Is Swimming With The Shark Now

You are the worst kind of good cause you're Not. Even. Great.

A Greek who reeks of false right.eous.ness that's what I HATE

I mean you totally could've avoided all this had you just killed my son. But ~nooo~

YOU ARE FAR TOO NICE, MERCY HAS A PRICE

Unlike you, I have no mercy left to give cause

Ruth.less.ness is mercy upon ourselves

Ruthlessness is MERCY UPON OURSELVES

OURSELVES

*wave sounds pt.2*

We took no pleaaaasure in his pain

That High Note™ on We only wanted to escaaaaaape

The Line Between Naivety And Hopefulness Is Almost Invisible

die

When does a ripple become a tidal wave

43 left under your command

When does a man become a monsteeeer

Iiiiiii am your daaaaaarkest momeeeent

Any last words?

ALL I GOTTA DO IS OPEN THIS BAG (WHAT)

EPIC BRASS SOLO™

Remember meee...

*eerie strings*

We came across a palace, inside we heard a voice

Sir! Sincewelefthomewefacedavarietyoffoesfromawiderangeofplaces gods, monsters, you know the roster, hostile creatures that we could resist, but this was a hell of a twist cause we are weak to a power like this!

What was it??? A woman.

What.?

She had us in just two words

~Come inside~

Damn

That Run™ on Go ahead and rest wherever you liiiiike

Take a seat (Yeah)! Let me bring you all something to eat (Yeah)!

This is the priiice we pay to liiiiive, the world does not tend to forgive

We have to go save them. No we don't

There's no length I wouldn't go if it was you I had to save! I can only hope you'd do the saaaame?

hehehe

hehehehehehe

hahahaha

I must say, what a brilliant speech you gave

Divine intervention, someone who's not afraid to... Send a message

Hermes? AHOHOHOHAHAHAHA

the chorus

That Run™ on When you take her on aloooooooone

the chorus again, this time with harmonies

~Here in the root of this flower there lies such a power to take her on~

That High Note™ on then you'll manifest a Being of your creation (all you need's imagination)

And I call this root ~Holy~ ~Moly~

Ahh...

AHAHAHAHAHAHA

More Chorus with More Harmonies!

OHHHHHHHHHHH OHHHHHHHHHHHHHH OHHHHHHHHHHH OHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Don't thank me friend, you very well may die. Ahmhmhmhm! Good luck

*Carmen intro*

Lady of the palace

Did you do something to them? Who me? All I did was reveal their true forms.

You turned them into pigs.

Ha

I don't know who you are nor why you're here, but let me make this one thing clear: I've got people to protect, nymphs I can't neglect, so I'm not taking chances, dear

If you make one wrong move then you're done for, anything I don't approve and you're done for, I could put a spell on you and you're done for, boy you better run or soon you will be done for

I DON'T MEAN TO TIP YOUR SCALE

~dire consequence~

Hermes gave it to you, didn't he?

Okay fine, yes, but regardless-

Duet version of I've got people to protect

*sword sound* You've lost.

My nymphs are like my daughters I protect them at all costs

... I'm not sure I follow

There are other ways of persuasion, there are other modes of control, there are other means of deceit, there are other roads to the soouuul, there are other actions of passion, you have so much left to learn, want to save your men from the fire? Show me that you're willing to buuuuuurn ohhhhhhh

~so much power, so much power~

I can't

*Penelopeeeeee* but make it viola

She's my everything, my Penelope

*sigh* Poseidon, eh?

I know of a brilliant prophet! Problem is this prophet is dead

I remember actions of passion, I have been in love once before. Maybe one day the world will need a puppeteer no moooooooore. Or maybe one day the world will need a puppeteer

MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORE

I apologise for any spelling mistakes and also for the length of this. It took me way too long but oh well

[corroded-hellfire]

Prompt Day 14: And the Winner Is...

Word Count: 1000

Rating: T

Pairing: Hellcheer

CW: Language

Summary: It's time for a new generation to take on the talent show at Hawkins Middle School

Song is Mr. Brightside by The Killers

@corrodedcoffinfest

The auditorium at Hawkins Middle looks smaller than Eddie remembered it as he and Chrissy step inside. Though, he had been smaller the last time that he was here for his own talent show in the eighth grade. 

“We are not sitting front and center,” Chrissy says to Eddie, shaking her head. “I won’t do to her what my mom did to me. Stressed the hell out of me to see her there.”

“I remember Wayne sat over here,” Eddie responds, nodding his head towards the right of the auditorium. That night sticks out in Eddie’s mind for a few reasons, but one of the best was seeing the proud smile on Wayne’s face after the original Corroded Coffin’s very first performance. 

“Here is good,” Chrissy agrees, and the two of them take seats right of center, a few rows back. 

The auditorium hasn’t changed much since Eddie went here, a fact he learns as he looks around the smaller-than-remembered space. But something does catch his eye that makes him smile. He taps his wife’s shoulder twice and points up to the catwalk where the two of them bumped into one another over twenty years ago. 

“Think Em is up there looking for us?” Eddie asks.

Chrissy laughs. “I can’t see her dragging her precious darling up there with her. And I doubt she’s going to let it leave her sight.”

Emily Munson’s new purple guitar is the light of her life. Eddie thinks she might even love it more than he loved his Sweetheart back in the day. Honestly, he’s surprised he hasn’t looked into Em’s room and seen the guitar tucked in bed next to her while she sleeps. 

“Her precious darling has a name,” Eddie teases. 

“I am not calling that thing ‘Cobain.’”

“Says the woman who named her car,” Eddie goads.

Chrissy pouts and looks up at her husband.

“Don’t bring Roxy into this.”

Eddie laughs and wraps his arm around his wife’s shoulders. 

The lights in the auditorium dim and the principal steps onstage.

“Welcome to the 2004 Hawkins Middle School talent show! I am Principal Newman and I’m so glad that you could join us this evening to witness the extraordinary talent our students have.”

The first few acts are entertaining enough—for a middle school show. Everyone in the audience knows they’re really sitting through everything else until the student they came here for is on. Finally, that time arrives for the Munson’s. 

“Please put your hands together for Guitarfly!”

Matching proud grins grace both Eddie and Chrissy’s faces as the curtains part to reveal their daughter and three of her friends.

Emily stands at the microphone, Cobain ready to go as she adjusts the strap over her shoulder. The young Munson’s dark curly bangs are held to each side by a glittery butterfly clip and a touch of eyeliner makes her blue eyes pop—makeup and eye color both courtesy of mom. Emily is wearing a black Corroded Coffin shirt that’s been cut and altered to hang off the shoulders of her small frame. Her denim skirt is layered over cropped red leggings, trimmed with lace at mid-calf. Her black high tops complete the look as she takes her place center stage. 

The drummer counts them off and Emily licks over her lips right before she puts her pick to the strings and leans in towards the microphone. 

Comin' out of my cage and I've been doin' just fine

Gotta, gotta be down because I want it all

It started out with a kiss, how did it end up like this?

It was only a kiss, it was only a kiss

Eddie watches his daughter in awe. He knows he never looked half as cool as she does on that stage. Pride threatens to choke the emotional father as he sees she’s having an absolute ball. 

Jealousy

Turning saints into the sea

Swimming through sick lullabies

Choking on your alibi

But it's just the price I pay

Destiny is calling me

Open up my eager eyes

'Cause I'm Mr. Brightside

He didn’t care that no other act got a standing ovation, when the song ends, Eddie jumps up and applauds. So is everyone else in the auditorium, but his cheering means the most to the teen girl behind the microphone. 

After the final acts, the judges—a teacher, assistant principal, and a lunch lady—converge to discuss the results. 

Eddie knows it’s just a middle school talent show, but he wants this for his daughter so badly. If the judges couldn’t see how talented Emily and her friends are, then Eddie thinks they need to get some sense knocked into them. 

Once the results are in, Principal Newman comes back onstage with the name of the winners on an index card. Eddie slips his hand into Chrissy’s, and she can’t help but smile to herself at how nervous he is for their daughter. The epitome of a doting father if there ever was one. 

“And the winner is…Guitarfly!”

Eddie’s ass is out of his seat before the principal can even finish saying the name of the band.

“That’s my girl!” Eddie cheers.

Emily takes the trophy from the assistant principal and looks over to her parents in the crowd. The louder Eddie applauds, the redder her face becomes. She gives them a small wave before she and her friends lift the trophy up in the air. There’s another smattering of applause and Principal Newman thanks everyone for coming. 

Still grinning from ear to ear, Eddie turns to Chrissy as they stand up and move to leave the auditorium. 

“How did we get the coolest daughter ever?” Eddie asks as he holds the door open for his wife.

“Because she has the coolest parents ever,” Chrissy answers. 

“Hell yeah,” Eddie says and slings an arm around her shoulders as they make their way towards the exit. “A rockstar and a cheerleader? There was no way this kid wasn’t going to be fucking awesome.”

[calaisreno]

Rise

621 words / Prompt: Family

Today’s mini-fic is a little bit that didn’t make it into The Last Envoy. After the war, Sherlock returns and visits Mummy. 

1946

Mycroft told me that Mummy was failing a bit, but that was not what I saw when I looked through the garden door and saw her snipping flowers to put in a vase. She looked like the woman I’d last seen four years ago, before I went to Oxford, still tall and straight, graceful and beautiful.

Four years seemed a lifetime. Years filled with separation and waiting, spent in places only war can create. 

“Happy Birthday, Mummy,” I said, smiling. 

She turned then, and I could see that her hair was whiter, her movements slower. She lay down the scissors and put her arms around me, still holding two roses. I felt her hands tremble against my back.

“My boy,” she whispered. “My dearest darling.”

She knew me, but in her mind I was always the son she’d lost, so many years ago. A bright little boy she’d called Sherlock, as well as the man Mycroft had named after that child. 

“How are you?” I could see a brightness in her eyes and was glad that her mind was still active. 

“I’m fine,” she replied, holding me at arm’s length now and examining me with that sharp gaze. “You look surprisingly well. Doctor Watson has been taking good care of you.”

“He has. Switzerland is a very healthy place to live. Up in the mountains, the air is crystal clear. I’m sure I’ll miss it and will need to visit again some day, but for now I’m happy to be back.”

We sat, and Rose brought us tea. 

“Mycroft told me about your experiences. I’m so sorry you had to go through that. It’s heart-breaking that people can do such things.”

I did not speak; a question should not be answered until it is asked.  

“How is John?” she asked.

“He’s fine. He would have come with me, but he had to be at the hospital today.”

“He’s a good man. I’m glad you have him.” 

“I’m very lucky.” 

We sipped our tea in silence. I could hear the bees humming in her flowers. Closing my eyes, I recalled the first time I saw bees travelling between the flowers in Mycroft’s garden. I imagined a day when I could no longer sit in Mummy’s garden, watching the bees and talking to her.  

As if she could hear my thoughts, she smiled and spoke to me. 

“I’m seventy-five years old today, Sherlock. With luck, I may have several more birthdays.”

“I hope so, Mummy.” 

She gave me that familiar look, the one that means she wants to share something personal, words for my ears alone. “You once described to me how the Beta view time as an arrow, always travelling up, leaving the past behind. It’s a good way to look at ageing, which often feels like loss. I’ve decided that as the years pile up, I will rise above them, into the future.”

In my mind I sometimes felt myself looking back as my ship moved up and away from Beta, my home planet, until it sparkled, a tiny point of light in the trackless black universe. I remembered everything about my home, every one of the people who loved me. They were moving quickly into the past, growing smaller as I looked back. I was flying away from them, but still too far away from my destination to see the life I would have on a planet that couldn’t be seen from Beta. In my memories, they were always looking up, watching me leave them.

That is how it would be for this woman who had become my second mother. In my memories, she would always live. 

One day, I would be a Memory too.

I smiled. “We all rise.” 

—

For a bit of context, an excerpt from The Last Envoy, Chapter 2:

1938

“How old are you?” I asked.

She raised her chin, a sign of pride. “I am sixty-seven years old.” She leaned forward and patted my knee. I wasn’t sure what this meant. “You’re a lovely boy, Sherlock. I want to teach you something important.”

I smiled. “Thank you.”

“Women don’t like being asked their age,” she said. “I don’t mind because I’m an old woman and you are a lovely young man. You don’t know all of the social nuances, but you’re a quick learner.”

“Why do women not like to be asked their age?” It seemed to me that any human ought to be proud of living so long. 

She sighed. “It’s a bit complicated. Men don’t mind saying their age. You must understand that the role of women in our society is to produce children and raise them. For that, we have to project youth and good heredity, as evidenced by our beauty. A woman hates to think that she is no longer useful, so we continue to foster the illusion that we are still young and beautiful, even when it is a ridiculous fantasy.”

“Why do you think you are not useful?” I asked. “Women are not just breeding machines; they have brains. You had an important job; you’re obviously an intelligent woman who would do a better job running the country than most men.”

She sighed and leaned back in her chair. “I do not disagree. But these are the roles that nature has given us and society requires. Perhaps one day, we will rise above nature and society.” 

@totallysilvergirl @keirgreeneyes

[seedclan]

Year 1 - Moon 3 - Greenleaf

Howlpaw's tail was held high as he followed after his clanmates through the grotto and to the beautiful flower field. He craned his neck, wide green eyes looking for a particular spotted tom. As he caught sight of his target, Howlpaw quickened his pace, falling in line beside his fellow apprentice.

"Softpaw! Hey, you didn't introduce me to the other apprentices at the last Gathering. Can I tail you when you go to say hi?" he asked earnestly.

Softpaw's ear twitched, the older apprentice looking incredulously at Howlpaw. "When I say hi? Howlpaw, I don't say hi. The Gathering is a formality, but there's no point making friends with cats you may have to fight."

"That's not what Kestrelstar said," Howlpaw argued, frowning as he flicked his gaze ahead. "Well fine, if you're going to be like that. I'll just introduce myself without your help."

A mrow of laughter caught Howlpaw off guard, Softpaw not even attempting to muffle his snickering as he rolled his eyes. "Ok Howlpaw. I'll see you at Dandelion Memorial. Good luck." Softpaw trotted ahead after Goldeniris and Honeyeagle, his tail tip flicking to hit Howlpaw's nose.

The gray apprentice jumped, swatting at the air where the tail once was, before huffing. As his fur began to lie flat, he gave himself a few quick licks before eyeing the gathered cats. He eventually noticed a smaller, younger looking tom. He was white and spotted with pale brown patches, standing alone.

Maybe he's nervous to meet other apprentices, just like me!

With a steady breath, Howlpaw trotted over with his head raised high, flicking his tail in greeting. "Hello there! I'm Howlpaw of SeedClan. Are you..." He paused only a moment, scenting the air. "...a SorrelClan apprentice?"

"I am." The tom's smile was small. He dipped his head in greeting to Howlpaw. "My name is Bumblepaw. I've been training for 4 moons now under Cranefang. You train under Kestrelstar, don't you?"

Howlpaw's eyes widened. "Wow, you know a lot!"

Bumblepaw purred with a small laugh. "Word gets around, especially when a leader trains an apprentice."

Pride swelled within him, Howlpaw unable to keep from flattening his ears with a show of embarrassment. He opened his mouth to speak further, but was interrupted by a flash of gray nudging her way between them, a bright smile on her face.

"Hi there! Socializing today, huh? Ooh, I'm glad there's a SeedClan cat willing to chat. That Softpaw is always telling me to bug off." She laughed loud enough to make Howlpaw duck his head, wary of others around them who glanced over with somewhat annoyed glances.

The dark gray tabby waved her plume-like tail. "I'm Rainpaw - CoyoteClan apprentice. I see you've met Bumblepaw. Got any scoop for me before the Gathering starts?"

Blinking at her in shock, Howlpaw stuttered. "I don't think uh- I mean I think that's Kestrelstar's job, not mine. That is uh..." He glanced away. While he was glad they were friendly, he hadn't exactly expected this.

"Rainpaw, quiet down," Bumblepaw whispered calmly. He nodded ahead to the Leaders, who stood proud as a hushed silence fell over the group. Howlpaw too straightened up, turning to pay attention.

The Gathering was starting.

Ryestar stepped forward, setting a Petunia down before his paws. "CoyoteClan is steadily recovering from the flood. Plummoon has taken up his deputy duties, but unfortunately we ran into a nasty fox that managed to mangle his leg. Lakeburn says he will make a full recovery." Murmurs of well wishes were exchanged, a few glances being cast towards Rainpaw, causing Howlpaw to glance at her as well.

Ryestar continued. "Rainpaw bravely finished chasing the fox off, and helped her mentor back to camp. I would like to acknowledge her tonight and thank her for protecting our new deputy."

Wow! Howlpaw gazed at Rainpaw with admiration. He couldn't imagine chasing off a fox and taking care of Kestrelstar like that. And her mentor was a deputy! Rainpaw was pretty amazing!

The she-cat noticed his look, puffing out her chest with a smile of delight. "You should've seen the way it yipped when it turned tail and ran. It won't mess with CoyoteClan again, that's for sure!"

As Ryestar stepped back, Whisperstar went next, the CherryClan leader dropping her pinkish colored flower to the ground. "For this Gathering, I bring Gladiolus. It represents strength and growth, which I believe CherryClan has been experiencing. We will not let hardships keep us down." Her voice sounded more powerful, making the raspy tone that betrayed her age. "CherryClan welcomes a new apprentice. Icepaw has been apprenticed to my deputy, Quiverwatcher, and we believe he will continue to uphold CherryClan's values."

Icepaw?

There was a new apprentice in CherryClan? That meant he was just a moon younger than Howlpaw! He'd have to say hi and congratulate him before they left.

"Icepaw! Icepaw! Icepaw!" the gathering cheered, Howlpaw raising his voice as he craned his neck and looked around for the apprentice.

He finally spotted him. A spiky white tom stood fierce and proud, a smile not even cracking his features. Howlpaw could see why he was named Icepaw. His eyes were like sunlit ice, and his cold exterior and white pelt made him fit for the chills of leafbare.

"We also have a new member of our clan. Apricotfeather has moved to the nursery with kits, but we have learned her mate is an outsider. As the code is to protect kits, we have taken him in to strengthen our ranks, as will the kits when they are born."

Chivestar's lips curled back in a snarl, and Ryestar even seemed surprised. "You took in an outsider, even after Bushclaw's death?" he asked warily.

"Churro has already proven his innocence," hissed Whisperstar, not explaining herself further. "Apricotfeather has suffered enough this past moon." Her fur bristled, before she stiffened and straightened herself. "And unfortunately, so have we. The truth is that twolegs came into our territory... and they managed to capture Tadpolefern. He was taken."

Everyone gasped, fur bristling as panic seemed to rise from the crowd.

"T-Taken?" a white SorrelClan she-cat timidly cried out

"Does CherryClan not protect their own?!" snarled Quillbeak.

"Silence!" Whisperstar cried, lashing her tail as her silver eyes betrayed the pain she felt. "CherryClan is feeling great shame. We loved Tadpolefern, and we have sent countless patrols out in search of Twolegs. But alas it hasn't led to any success..." She trailed off, sighing. "CherryClan is rebuilding, but with what is sounding like a large litter, we will be stronger than ever," she insisted, admittedly rather defensive.

"I also have a warning to my fellow clan cats." Whisperstar's voice was stern and serious. "As you may have noticed, our medicine cat Maplefern has been absent two Gatherings now. I'm informing you all now that she has been exiled from CherryClan."

Howlpaw's ears flattened as shocked whispers flooded the clearing. His pelt felt hot, knowing well where Maplefern was. He lowered his head, yet kept his eyes looking at Whisperstar as she continued to speak.

"As is the code of Healers, they must not take mates, nor carry kits, as it impedes upon their relationship with StarClan. When we learned she had been seeing a loner, she lost her rights to our support."

Kestrelstar eyed the white she-cat, frowning. Her demeanor did not go unnoticed, as Whisperstar glared back. "Do you have something to say, Kestrelstar?"

"Only if you're finished," Kestrelstar replied coolly, voice muffled by the large yellow flower she carried.

Whisperstar huffed and stepped back, eyeing the SeedClan leader with her silver eyes as they traded places. Kestrelstar set her offering down, raising her tail as she gazed upon the gathered cats.

"I have brought a Sunflower because SeedClan has unwavering faith, and are looking towards the light that is the sun. This past moon has brought change, but we are strong and certain in our actions." She took a soft breath, puffing out her chest as she spoke. "The truth is that SeedClan has taken in Maplefern."

"You what?!" Whisperstar bared her fangs, silver eyes blazing with fury. "Does SeedClan spat in the face of StarClan's word?"

"I should be asking CherryClan that," Kestrelstar hissed back without hesitation. "Does CherryClan leave kits to die and fend for themselves?"

Whisperstar sat upright in shock. "Kits? What do you mean?"

"Maplefern had kits with her. They appeared to be almost 2 moons old. She most certainly had to have been pregnant when you cast her out." Kestrelstar's amber eyes hardened. "Maplefern may have broken the healer code, but she is still a queen, and the code says to never neglect the innocent."

CherryClan cats spoke up, eyes wide with horror.

"We didn't know!" Icepaw declared, catching Howlpaw's attention. He was surprised a new apprentice would speak out so loudly. But the white tom stood tall, not even flinching as the other cats gazed at him. "CherryClan would never harm innocent kits!"

Kestrelstar waved her tail for silence. "We have been taking care of Maplefern and her kits. While it is Maplefern's decision, we believe the kits will grow into fine warriors of SeedClan, unless CherryClan wants to change their mind?"

A hushed silence fell through the air. A look of shame was plastered on Whisperstar's face. She lowered her head before shaking it. "We will start no conflict over the kits. I admit the wrong I have done to Maplefern." Her voice hardened as she met Kestrelstar's gaze though. "However, she is not welcomed back in CherryClan. While she should've been taken care of as a mother, she has chosen to flee rather than use the code that would've saved her. CherryClan wants no part of her, nor her kits after her banishment."

"I want to apologize too," Ryestar spoke up. The elderly tom would stand as she looked to Kestrelstar. "Maplefern came to CoyoteClan asking for herbs, but we did not give them to her. Her kits were no where in sight when she came, and she didn't speak of them to us. Had we known, we would've provided her the care she needed."

Kestrelstar appeared unimpressed, glaring at both of them. "She was injured. Did you not know that either?"

To her surprise, Ryestar shook his head. "She smelled like garlic actually when she came. She looked to be in fine condition, and merely left when we explained we didn't have herbs to spare. We weren't even aware of her banishment at that point in time."

Howlpaw tilted his head in confusion. Why would Maplefern not tell those around her the full story? She could've gotten help so easily it sounded like, and yet she hid her kits and what happened. It was like Softpaw had caught her or something.

Kestrelstar dipped her head, accepting Ryestar's answer, albeit with a still displeased expression. With a soft sigh, she continued to speak. "Softpaw completed his Border Trial, bringing him closer to becoming a warrior of our clan. This is where he found Maplefern, escorting her back to camp without conflict. With her came her three kits - Slatekit, Bluekit, and Hollowkit."

The gathered cats seemed restless, surprised still with all they had heard so far. However, as Chivestar stood up for his turn, his uncharacteristically hostile expression caused near everyone to hush up. As he set down the Forget-Me-Not, everyone seemed to stiffen.

"SorrelClan is in mourning. While our apprentice Bumblepaw completed his Training Trial, we bring unfortunate news of the death of our sole Healer, Fireleopard."

Most seemed to murmur condolences. The tom was rather old after all, but with no apprentice to follow in his pawsteps, what would SorrelClan do?

Chivestar continued. "We are not without a Healer though. Icywish has stepped forward, volunteering to become a Healer after Fireleopard's passing. She has already begun receiving additional training from Lakeburn of CoyoteClan, however Icywish has impressed us with her knowledge of healing and herbs she already knew."

Kestrelstar spoke up. "Chivestar, know if Icywish needs any further training, Fallendapple is very able."

"I'm afraid I'll have to pass, but thank you, Kestrelstar." Chivestar's voice was short and curt. Howlpaw noticed the way Kestrelstar's pelt prickled in surprise, before she dipped her head with a nod.

"But while Fireleopard was old, it was not StarClan who came for him," he declared, green eyes looking to Whisperstar. "We found Fireleopard on the CherryClan border. Do you care to explain yourself, Whisperstar?"

It was one surprise after the other, the cats bristling in shock as they begun to turn on each other. Bumblepaw remained calm as he sat with the other apprentices, but his green eyes shifted to look over at Icepaw, who was lashing his tail in fury.

"Are you accusing CherryClan of killing a Healer?!" Whisperstar spat.

"Well you're willing to cast out kits. What other rules of the code are you breaking?" Chivestar snarled back, lashing his tail as he approached the CherryClan leader.

"Chivestar!" "Whisperstar!"

Kestrelstar pushed herself against Chivestar, nudging him back with a growl. Ryestar's form towered over Whisperstar, pleading for the she-cat to not launch herself at the SorrelClan leader.

Whisperstar huffed. "I'm sorry for your loss. You have my condolences, really. But CherryClan had no part of it. Though perhaps if SorrelClan cats are such fox-hearts, they deserve to lose a life to even the score."

"Why you-!" Chivestar raised his haunches, but Kestrelstar blocked him, giving him a pleading gaze. The gray tom seemed to stare at her, before flattening his ears and looking to his clan.

"SorrelClan, we're leaving!" he called, trudging ahead and smacking his tail against Kestrelstar as he left. The SeedClan leader flinched, amber eyes wide.

Howlpaw shifted uncomfortably. He and Rainpaw both glanced over at Bumblepaw, who stood up without a word.

"Yeah, turn tail and run back to your camp!"

Looking up with a shocked gaze, Howlpaw saw the spiky white form of Icepaw pushing his way through the crowd. He bared his fangs, snarling at Bumblepaw, who was far bigger than the new apprentice. "Your leader is a liar. Fight me here and now and we'll settle this!"

Bumblepaw's expression barely shifted. It was only now that Howlpaw noticed his smile didn't reach his eyes, and that his green gaze was cold and lifeless.

"I wouldn't waste my time on a scrap of fur like you," he murmured, voice velvety smooth. He dipped his head to Howlpaw and Rainpaw, before turning to leave.

Rainpaw look stunned, mouth agape in a grin. Despite the terror sweeping through Howlpaw, Rainpaw seemed to be relishing in this animosity.

Maybe because it's not her clan...

Icepaw snarled, glancing at Howlpaw and Rainpaw before puffing himself up to look bigger. Even when he did though, he was easily the smallest still.

"Ah um, hi!" Howlpaw greeted, offering a nervous but friendly smile. Icepaw looked ready to claw his fur off, but Howlpaw wasn't sure what else to do. The white tom would glare before turning around and sauntering off, lashing his tail in annoyance.

Rainpaw craned her neck to watch him go, before snickering. "Wow, now that was a dramatic gathering. Phew, I'll have a lot to tell Plummoon about."

"Are you not scared? Or feeling um... bad for everyone?" Howlpaw asked, astonished at first before trailing off into a more meek and nervous tone.

"Well it doesn't affect my clan," she spoke simply. Rainpaw flicked her ear before nudging Howlpaw with a smile. "Yours just grazed some trouble though. Congrats on your new Healer and kit combo though. And hey, let's chat more next time." The dark gray tabby would perk up as a ginger she cat raised her tail to follow. "I gotta go, but see ya around, Howlpaw."

And just like that, he was alone. He saw the rest of his clan leaving, Kestrelstar at the helm. Her eyes looked troubled, trained ahead as her tail lashed with irritation. Howlpaw felt a knot within his stomach, tightening with every pawstep. He gulped, uncertainty clear in his dark colored gaze.

Maybe Softpaw was right...

[darcylindbergh]

I’m the minor from the last ask- thank you so much for all the advice. It might be hard to do some of it since my town is really tiny (less than 15,000) but I’ll try. I was outed last year and it was really traumatic but I’ve gained a lot of independence lately and hoping to go to college soon after doing Christian homeschooling my whole life. If you don’t mind, how exactly can I look up marriage license announcements?

hello darling!!

the list of options is not meant as a to-do list!! i was just throwing ideas out. of course some of them won't be feasible for everyone!! don't feel like you have to run yourself ragged. don't feel like you should try to do some of them if you think it might endanger you in any way. remember always: your oxygen mask first, then helping others.

i'm so sorry that you got outed in a terrible fashion. the good news is that coming out is something we kinda do our whole lives, once we start - it can be kind of tiring, sure, but it can also be really joyful and celebratory. yes, i AM queer, thanks for noticing! you will be able to come out at college and meeting new friends and starting a new job and all this other stuff on your own terms, whether that's just showing up with a pride flag flyin or taking someone into your confidence or however you want. we do it endlessly to all sorts of different people. i came out to someone new this week because he came into my job wearing a pride pin and i was like oh hi you?? me!! i'm really sorry that coming out was taken from you, but you will have so many more beautiful coming outs to look forward to. i'm glad you are still here and looking toward your own independence and making plans, that's absolutely the way to go.

marriage license applications!! you can usually just google it (duckduckgo it). i typed in "[where i live] county marriage license applicant publications" and the second result said "applicant report" and they were all there. i guess i don't know if every state requires publication of the marriage licenses applicant publications but if you can find them they're good for the soul.

by the way i gotta say when i looked these up to answer this ask (i usually read them in a legal newspaper, not online) i looked at the reports from june 2015 when obergefell was passed, and the reports went from saying "bride/groom" to "applicant 1/applicant 2" and about halfway down the report there was just a slew of names that were clearly queer couples. the first queer marriage in my county was between two women, ages 61 and 53. i knew this actually because this marriage happened on the lawn of the courthouse i was working at the time, and when the decision came down they FLEW out of the courthouse with the county clerk who performed the marriage within minutes. i cried watching from my window. i couldn't remember their names but now i do! so thank you, that was a special thing for me.

you are going to do such wonderful things and love and be loved by such wonderful people. things will not always feel so dark. i promise.

<3

[lemoncrushh]

The Entertainer - Track 07 - Let's Hit the Road

Summary: Set in the 70s, Sky Jones, a young woman from L.A., meets Harry Styles, an up-and-coming musician and frontman for the band Wildfire. Told in first person from Sky’s point of view, she shares her journey and what it’s like to fall for a rockstar.

STORY PAGE

Track 07 Word Count: 3.2k+

It was mid-October when Halo and I packed up my little Volkswagen Beetle (that I’d named Lovely Rita three years ago) to hit the road for Wildfire’s first west coast tour. Their album had been released a couple weeks prior and was already getting decent reviews. Their first single was also getting airplay, and it always made me smile with pride when I’d hear it. As a combination release party and farewell/good luck, they had another show at the Troubadour where I finally got to meet Mr. Irving.

That’s what I called him, Mr. Irving. He’d insisted I not call him Mr. Azoff but simply Irving, but I just couldn’t let the Mister go. Because despite his small stature, he was most definitely a Mister. He seemed to be very fond of Harry though, which made me feel at ease.

“Don’t forget your camera!” Halo called to me from her bedroom.

“I’ve got it,” I called back.

I’d almost forgotten it, actually. When I had begun packing my suitcase, I suddenly remembered that it was still in my duffle bag that I’d taken with me to Chula Vista. I’d also forgotten about the film in it. Harry had used the rest of it taking photos at the Holiday Inn, but I had yet to get them developed. I was itching to know what they were, but it was too late now, so I’d have to wait even longer. Grabbing my new roll of film that Harry’d bought to replace what he’d used, I tossed it along with my camera in my tote.

“Aren’t you bringing your guitar?” asked Halo when I shut the trunk.

“Oh, yeah!”

Running back to the apartment, I grabbed my most prized possession from my bedroom and headed back down the stairs.

“Let’s hit the road!” I cheered when I set my guitar in the back seat.

Halo hooted as she got into the passenger seat and I cranked up Rita. I smiled as the sound of the Eagles played through my speakers.

“Put me on a highway And show me a sign And take it to the limit one more time…”

Yes…I took it as a very good sign.

Halo and I arrived in San Francisco just before three when we checked into our motel room. Although Lee and Deacon still weren’t crazy about the idea of us tagging along on the road, we’d made a compromise that we would stay in our own rooms and drive my car to and from the venues. They seemed to be cool with that, although Mitch and Harry made it a point to show their disdain.

I’d just gotten out of the shower, my towel wrapped around me when the phone in the room rang. Sitting on my bed, I answered it.

“Hey, you’re here!” cheered Harry.

“I’m here!” I echoed, glad I’d told him which motel we were staying in.

“We just wrapped up soundcheck, and I’m back in my room.”

“Are you excited?”

“Nervous.”

“No, you’re not!” I corrected. “You’re never nervous.”

“Gotta say, I kind of am right now.”

“Oh. Anything I can do?”

I heard Harry chuckle from deep within his throat. “No, don’t think so.”

“Okay…well, good luck! You’ll be great, I know.”

“Thanks, babe.”

I giggled when I hung up the phone, not at Harry, but at his nervousness. It was cute. If he was ever nervous before, he never showed it. And I doubted he would show it tonight.

After dressing in one of my favorite chiffon tops and bell bottoms, I sat on the bed and strummed my guitar as I waited for Halo.

“Hey, play that song you were working on the other day,” I heard her sing from the bathroom.

“What song?”

“From that album you just bought recently. Heart.”

I smiled as I tried to recall the chords. Then I let the melody take me to my magical place as I sang along to my own accompaniment.

“Ain’t it good to know you’ve got a place to go Where the melody’s fine Sometimes I’m not so strong And even now I could be wrong But if you love me like music I’ll be your song…”

Halo applauded when I finished, her beautiful face beaming.

“You’re so good, Sky. Was that for Harry?”

I chuckled. “Was what for him?”

“That song. You want him to love you like music.”

I rolled my eyes as she turned to brush her hair in the mirror. I watched as she stroked it several times, then stopped and turned around again.

“Do you love him like music?” she asked.

I laughed. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Exactly what I asked. For almost as long as I’ve known you, music has been your one true love. Are your feelings for Harry like your feelings for music?”

I blinked, preparing myself for a response, but none came. I was tongue-tied.

“Uh huh,” Halo nodded, continuing with her hair brushing. “Thought so.”

I shook my head, my tongue finally catching up with my brain. “I don’t think my feelings for Harry are even close to love.”

“Really?” she glared at me in the mirror. “Coulda fooled me.”

“Seriously, Halo,” I argued as I tried to convince myself as much as her. “It’s no different from you and Mitch. He’s a musician. He’s…a rockstar. It’s just sex.”

Dropping her brush on the counter, Halo grabbed her folded wad of cash and tucked it into her bra.

“Sky,” she said, “you’re really talented. You have the voice of an angel. You could be just as famous as Joni Mitchell. But do me a favor…never become an actress.”

“Why?” I gave her a questioning look as I followed her to the door.

“Because, you’re a terrible liar.”

“If there’s a rock show at the Concertgebow They’ve got long hair at the Madison Square You’ve got rock and roll at the Hollywood Bowl We’ll be there, ooh yeah…”

Halo and I blasted the Wings song with the windows down as I pulled into the parking lot of the venue. I felt it was the perfect song to set the tone for the evening.

It wasn’t a massive venue, but I was surprised to see a large crowd near the entrance. It actually took us a while to get inside, and once we did, it felt like it was just wall to wall people. I’d been to many concerts before, but this was the largest crowd I’d ever seen for Wildfire. Their album was barely out, so this kind of turn-out was proof that they were going to be hugely popular. This was only the beginning, I told myself.

When the band stepped out, the audience went wild. Halo and I hadn’t made it to the front near the stage yet, so we stood back and watched for a minute or two. It was actually pretty thrilling to see them from that perspective since we were always up front. The only other time I’d seen them from further back was at that country bar where I’d sat on my stool. This was very different. I got to watch the people cheering and singing along to songs I’d already known for months, but they’d only just recently heard for the first time.

I raised my camera in my hands and began to capture photos of the band, getting some really great ones of Harry.

“Look at ‘em!” Halo yelled in my ear. “They’re meant for this, aren’t they?”

I nodded, though my focus was not on they, but him. Only him. And yes, he was meant for this.

During the second song, I felt a push behind me and turned to see three girls making their way around us to get to the front. One of them, a blonde in a furry vest over a top very similar to mine, stepped on my foot in her horrendous clogs.

“Oww, son of a bitch!” I screamed.

The blonde looked back at me for a millisecond, a glance that told me she wasn’t sorry one bit, before her friends pulled her to the stage.

“You okay?” asked Halo, realizing what had happened.

“I think she broke my toe.”

“Can you wiggle it?”

I made a face when I noticed I could. But I knew it would be throbbing all night.

“C’mon,” Halo grabbed my arm. “Let’s get closer.”

Weaving through the crowd, we made it as close as we could to the band, directly behind the toe stomper and her friends. I found myself sticking my tongue out at the back of her head, but of course she never noticed.

It didn’t matter anyway because when the song was over and Harry did his welcoming speech, he spotted me and waved. I waved back and he grinned, giving a thumbs up before introducing the next song. The blonde’s friend to her right must have noticed because our eyes met quickly before she nudged furry vest. When she turned around, I raised my brows, waiting for her to say something, but she didn’t. She merely shrugged at her friend, then went back to ogling at the band, or whatever she was doing.

Halo and I pranced and cheered just like we always did. We didn’t really need to be the cheerleaders this time though. It was apparent by the end of the night that they’d made it. Anything from here on out would just be icing on the cake.

Harry gave a huge thank you speech before the last song, sending the crowd into another uproar of hoots and whistles. I almost thought he was going to cry from all the pride he must have felt at that moment. And rightly so. My own chest was about to explode, my heart could hardly take it.

He blew a few kisses out into the audience. When his eyes met mine again, he winked, seeming to blow me my own personal kiss. I smiled as I pretended to catch it and held it to my chest. Harry shook his head, his smile so wide and beaming so brightly that I thought surely he was the source of all light.

Toe stomper and her friends all glared at me then, and I felt Halo poke me in the side, no doubt finding humor in it all and enjoying herself.

“You know him?” asked the friend on the right.

I shrugged nonchalantly. “Yeah.”

“She’s his girlfriend,” added Halo.

I glared at her with wide eyes, but it didn’t compare to the astonishment on the face of the blonde. Halo chuckled and looped her arm through mine. Then she pulled me to the side of the stage while the band finished their final song.

“I can’t believe you said that!” I exclaimed.

“So what? It’s pretty much true.”

“No, it’s not. Harry and I haven’t-“

“Look at ‘em, those girls are so jealous, they’re faces are turning green. Especially that girl who stepped on your foot.”

“I don’t want them to be jealous,” I disagreed.

“Why not?”

“Because…there’s nothing to be jealous of.”

Halo shook her head, exasperated. “Wake up, Sky, will you? Did you see how he looked at you? Did you see?”

How could I not? His smile was probably permanently tattooed on the inside of my eyelids.

“He wasn’t looking at anybody else like that. You’re the one he’s most excited to see out there.”

Though I wasn’t a hundred percent sure if I believed her, I felt a flutter in my stomach as the band exited the stage and Halo grabbed my hand again.

At first, the guard wouldn’t let us backstage. We begged and pleaded, and even turned on the charm but to no avail. Standing back with our arms crossed, thinking this whole tour thing might’ve been a bad idea, I suddenly saw a man in a suit make his way to the security guard.

“Mr. Azoff!” I squealed.

He frowned when he first turned his head, but when he realized who I was, he smiled.

“Hello, Sky. Please, call me Irv-“

“Mr. Irving, sorry,” I said out of breath. “They won’t let us back there. I don’t think they believe we’re with the band.”

“Everyone’s with the band, Miss,” spat the guard.

“It’s no problem, Monty,” Mr. Azoff explained. I wondered if he already knew his name, or had just read his name tag. “They’re with me.”

“Yes, sir.”

And just like that, Halo and I were admitted backstage with Irving Azoff, manager extraordinaire.

“There you are!” shouted Harry as soon as he saw me. He nearly jogged to me, making me smile from ear to ear. “Thought something happened to you.”

“It did. The guard wouldn’t let us in. But Mr. Irving came to the rescue.”

I could feel the grin still plastered on my face as his mimicked mine. Then he licked his lips, took my face in his hands and kissed me. Not just a peck either, but a full-on tongue kiss, right in front of everybody. Not that they were really paying attention. I had no idea what else to do other than melt.

“So glad you’re here,” he murmured when he broke the kiss.

“You were great.”

“You look great,” he added with a wiggle of his brows. His pointer finger ran down my neck to the V in my top that met my cleavage. “I like this.”

I bit my lip as I watched his gaze travel down my body. I could feel my insides ignite just as he shifted his eyes back to mine.

“Wanna stay with me tonight?” he asked, his voice low, but apparently loud enough that Lee heard.

“No.”

“What?” Harry and I both voiced at the same time.

“We agreed. No girls.” I looked over at Lee who sat on the sofa next to Deacon.

“No we didn’t,” argued Harry.

“Yes. That was the pact. Sky and Halo wanted to come, but we agreed only if they stay in their own room,” said Lee.

“All night?” Harry asked incredulously.

I held my hand over my mouth to keep from giggling, although in truth none of this was funny.

“Actually, Harry,” said Mr. Irving whom I’d almost forgotten was in the room, “I don’t think that’s such a bad idea.”

“You don’t?”

“No. So many bands start out strong and let the girls become too much a part of their lifestyle that they forget what’s important.”

I could see Harry’s shoulders drop in defeat.

“You’ve got to be kidding.”

“Perhaps taking a vow of abstinence…or um…semi-abstinence might be the way to go for a while. I’m sure the girls will understand. They adore your music after all.”

I stared at Mr. Irving who gave me a gentle smile. I had to hand it to him. He was good.

“Bloody hell,” Harry muttered under his breath as he turned from me and walked to the other side of the room. “You guys are gonna make me a virgin again.”

Wildfire had two more consecutive shows after that, one in Oakland and another in Santa Rosa, both with great turnouts. I was so proud of Harry, I wanted to tell him. I wanted to show him. But with all the time on the road and having to sleep in separate quarters, our time together was limited.

Finally, the band had a free day between shows in Sacramento. Harry invited me over to his hotel, which in reality was another motel, just nicer than mine. We were both hungry, so we decided to walk the streets in search of something to eat. Strolling hand in hand, we talked about music mostly, and where else the tour was headed. Apparently, Mr. Azoff had them going further north to a couple cities in Oregon, but I wouldn’t be attending those. I still had a job back home that I had to get back to, at least for a while. Then I was going to be rejoining them when they got closer south again.

“So tell me, Harry,” I grinned, swinging our hands between us, “How do you like the tour so far?”

“Love it. Almost everything about it. But there’s one little thing I don’t like. In fact, I hate it.”

I paused my steps to look at him, a serious expression on his face, his brows knitted together.

“What’s that?”

“I’m going absolutely mad not being able to touch you.”

My own expression relaxed as I tugged on his hand.

“Who says you can’t touch me?”

Harry’s face brightened as his lips curled into a smile. Then he leaned forward and kissed me.

“Maybe…um…after we eat…we can…go back to the hotel.”

“Uh huh.”

“No sex though.”

“Nuh uh.”

Harry nodded, licking his lips. We found a McDonald’s and decided to bring our food back to his room. We sat on the bed and ate while trying to find something to watch on television.

“Ooh! Leave it there!” I instructed when I saw a glimpse of Ali MacGraw.

“This is a sad movie,” he groaned.

“But it’s one of my favorites.”

Grabbing his burger, Harry sat back against the headboard next to me. We watched the rest of Love Story, and knowing full well I would, I cried like the first time I saw it. Harry put his arm around me and allowed me to sob in his chest, getting his t-shirt a little wet.

“Sorry,” I whispered when the movie was over. “I always cry.”

“Nothing to be sorry about. It’s sad.”

When I looked up, I thought I caught a little glimmer of wetness in his eyes too, but he quickly blinked it away and I wasn’t about to call him on it.

“Harry?”

“Hmm?”

“Can I ask you something?”

“Anything.”

“Remember when you told me songs are memories? And that even if it’s a sad memory, it’s okay? It’s a good thing?”

“Yes.”

“Do…do you have any songs like that? You know, that’s connected to something sad?”

Harry considered my question for a moment, his eyes staring at the wall. Then he blinked and looked at me.

“Joy to the World,” he answered.

“The Christmas song?”

“No. Three Dog Night.”

I burst out laughing. “Seriously? Why?”

“It’s actually connected to a lot of happy memories,” explained Harry. “Simon fucking loved that song. He was trying to be this tough kid, but no matter where we went, if that song came on, he’d stand up, clap and sing a long. Sometimes he’d change the lyrics.”

“Like what?” I grinned.

“He’d sing ‘Harrimiah was a bullfrog’,” chuckled Harry. “He started calling me that, too. He thought he was funny.”

“And you thought he was too.”

“Yeah.”

“You miss him.”

Harry blinked and nodded.

“But you have great memories forever.”

Harry took a deep breath and let it out slowly. I took that as my cue. Something else was itching at me to ask him, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it.

“I should get going.”

Harry walked me to the door where he kissed me again.

“Wish you would stay,” he murmured against my neck.

“Me too,” I agreed. “But…rules.”

“Aaagghhh fuck that! I feel like I’m in a bloody prep school. Stay.”

I sighed as I lifted my fingers to touch his lips. “Next time. I think maybe the longer we show Lee and Deacon - and Mr. Irving - how we can hold out and be big kids, the sooner they might decide to take the chains off.”

“Good point. But just know I hate this.”

“Me too.”

I drove back to my room I shared with Halo to find her on the phone with Mitch. I shook my head as I went to the bathroom. There was no way any of us were gonna make it through this entire tour.

Songs mentioned:

Eagles - Take It To the Limit

Heart - (Love Me Like Music) I'll Be Your Song

Wings - Rock Show

Three Dog Night - Joy to the World

I truly hope you enjoyed this chapter and found the humor in it, because re-reading it myself made me giggle all over again ;)

[blackbutler-readerinsertsandjunk]

A scenario where the one(s) Ciel is after revenge for is already dead and gone. Sebastian's reaction to being stuck with Ciel till he dies and even then he doesn't get his meal and how Ciel and his soulmate feel. (I'm thinking they just met shortly before Ciel finds out those he was after are dead).

ohohohoho

At the end of his quest for revenge, which spanned years, CIEL was hoping there would be some kind of satisfaction at the end of it.

Instead, he’s left with nothing but a hollow sort of relief as he looks down at the bodies of the people responsible for ruining his entire life.

Is he glad to have them gone? Of course. To know that the proof is right there, that they can never hurt him or anyone he cares about or anyone at all ever again is a weight off his shoulders.

He’s just angry that he wasn’t the one to take them out of this world. It’s frustrating in a way he doesn’t fully know how to describe.

He’s sure the ride home in the carriage is going to be a long one, full of too many thoughts and not enough words to express them all. When he settles in beside (Name), his beloved, the other half of his soul (which will get to exist and persist now), he already knows he’s going to be too tired to sleep.

SEBASTIAN gets as comfortable as he thinks a demon can possibly get across from the two of them. It’s a moment before anyone speaks; presumably none of them really want to address anything that’s hanging in the air. It has to be done, though.

“I should have known a little brat like you would find some way to not keep your end of the bargain, my lord.” Sebastian’s eyes flicker briefly toward (Name), then his gaze returns to Ciel. “Shall I assume you’ve told them of our deal?”

“And everything it entails. Which is now a moot point.” Ciel removes his hat and sets it on the other side of him, his free hand being held by (Name)’s. “Am I correct about that part?”

(Name) squeezes Ciel’s hand before looking over at their soulmate’s butler. “… Is that true, Sebastian? Does that mean―”

Sebastian lets out a small huff; Ciel hasn’t heard this tone since the very first days of this demon serving him. It’s been a while since he let the mask slip. “Yes, it does. Congratulations, you’ve solved the mystery. I no longer get to eat your lover’s soul. What do you want me to do, bake you a pie?”

“Shut your mouth, Sebastian. Talk to them like that again and you’ll be relegated to playing hall boy for a month.” Despite everything, Ciel hasn’t lost a bit of his spine to be ordering Sebastian around. In fact, he feels might he might have more authority than ever before. “I don’t care that you’ve known (Name) for less than six months. I don’t care that you’re upset over this. I don’t care. You will not speak to them with anything less than respect, and that’s an order. It certainly won’t be the last one I ever give you.”

Sebastian raises an eyebrow. Clearly, he isn’t happy about the situation. Ciel doesn’t think he’d be happy in Sebastian’s position either, but, well, that’s the chance he took with a deal like this, isn’t it? “Oh, yes. Put your ego on full display to soothe your wounded pride, as usual.”

“My pride isn’t wounded, thank you very much. You’re lucky I don’t order you to carve out your own tongue.” The city goes by outside the windows, shrouded in darkness. Ciel spares the buildings a passing glance and, for the first time in a while, thinks about how he might pass his whole life here now.

“… You know,” (Name) murmurs, “I know it isn’t what you wanted, Sebastian, but I’m glad things turned out this way. Now I get to have a future with Ciel, and you won’t just vanish from our lives. Even if you didn’t like it, you’ve taken care of him for all this time. I’m grateful that you’ll be around.”

Ciel snorts, and it’s the first time since the revelation that he’s felt a little lighter. “Even if he acts like a complete bell-end?”

Sebastian’s eyes glow fuchsia as if he’s barely restraining himself from showing off a taste of his full power. “I follow every single order you give me, only to be cheated out of my meal, and I’m the bell-end? I’d like to see someone else do everything I’ve done since I came into your life, in exchange for the promise of a dinner that never comes.”

“And you’ll be continuing to do it until I die,” Ciel snaps.

Sebastian snarls back at him. “Don’t give me any ideas.”

“Ideas we both know you can’t act on, thereby doing nothing but tormenting you? In fact, I think I will.” He smirks. “Just wait until (Name) and I start a family. I can’t even begin to tell you how many nappies I’m going to make you change.”

(Name) beside him bites down on a laugh. “Ciel.”

The rest of Ciel’s life is laid out before him, and he’s so confused as to what he’s going to do with it when he couldn’t conceive of having a future less than an hour ago.

He may not have vengeance, but he has his life back. And he has (Name).

He thinks he’d rather have those things.

[cartoonfanaticmonsterrobotalien]

Solar Opposites: The Rise of The New Order Ch. 7 (by @avaveevo)

3 months later

Korvo is ready for the New Order again as he grins. Korvo looks at a photo of him and Terry on their wedding day

Korvo: *sighs happily*

Korvo hugs the picture

Korvo: Time to go to work!

Later, Korvo is walking with Tortus

Tortus: My Korvotron, you’ve been working really hard ever since you joined the New Order. We are really impressed by your status.

Korvo: Thank you, sir. Now…about the Execution…

Tortus: If you plan to talk me out of it, it won’t work, Korvotron.

Korvo: Uh-

Tortus: Oh by the way, it’s time for another meeting with the New Order. Come.

Korvo: Uh yes sir.

Meanwhile, Terry and Teraformus are looking at Aundrayus’ records

Terry: Wow dad. Look at them.

Teraformus: Now you know why he’s dangerous.

Terry: Yeah. I do. Thank you for keeping me safe by the way.

Teraformus: Anything for my son…

Terry: Yeah. So when I was baby, how did you knew that someday, Tortus would come after me if I hadn’t obey him.

Teraformus sighs

Terraformus: Because one day, Tortus said he would come after our precious thing… you.

Terry gasps. A flashback plays as baby Terry continues crying when Tortus snarls at him and his parents after the execution.

Flashback Jessica: We won’t let you take him!

Tortus: Oh yes I will…

Tortus smirks

Tortus: When he becomes an adult one day…

Jessica holds baby Terry close

Tortus: If he dares to disobey me like you two did…

Terraformus growls in papa wolf fury while Tortus laughs and leave.

Baby Terry: *wailing*

Terraformus: There there Terald. It’ll be okay. Tortus will never harm you.

The flashback ends as Teraformus sheds a tear

Teraformus: I was so afraid of losing you. So scared of losing mine and Jessica’s pride and joy. But I was wrong. You have grown up be a brave young man with a husband their to protect you.

Terry smiles

Terry: Dad… you don’t have to worry about losing me ever again…

Terry and Terraformus hug. Back with Korvo

Korvo: *to himself* Okay Korvo. You can do this.

Korvo goes up to Tortus

Korvo: Hello Tortus. I am ready to start the day.

Tortus: I’m glad you’re here. I’m here to talk to you about our heathen situation.

Korvo: Heathen?

Tortus: Come.

Korvo nods nervously as he approaches Tortus.

Korvo: Uh sir, what is it about those heathens?

Tortus and Korvo enters the room where Tortus shuts the door.

Tortus then summons info about heathens

Tortus: Do you ever wonder why Shlorp has always been in years by my father?

Korvo: Aundryus?

Tortus: Hmmm…how do you know his name?

Korvo: Oh. I heard a lot about him.

Tortus smirks

Tortus: Good. Because here is something you should know about him.

Korvo: What do you mean?

Tortus presses a button that shows Teraformus and Jessica as Korvo gasps

Tortus: A long time ago our economy was struggling when some Shlorpians refuse to take orders. My father wanted to rule while that worthless woman Jessica wanted to do nothing with it.

A flashback plays of Aundrayus and Jessica arguing

Past Jessica: Please Aundrayus, this economy is flaking apart by this so called execution!

Past Aundrayus: I don’t care. Shlorp needs this perfect stalemate! It’s the only way it can one day become a perfect Utopia!

Past Jessica slaps Past Aundrayus in the face

Past Jessica: Fuck you! I will never do it!

Past Jessica runs off

Past Aundrayus: *growls*

Cue this song:

[AUNDRAYUS]

That deal is done! You really thought she could’ve just stayed gone! Well not for long, now the heathens have won You best get up cause there’s a brand new dawn Go and stop your spawn Is that an order I run the ship now so let me be clear They took down my orders that’s no joke This situation I severe

You have to tear your subjects down

Get them back in line

weaken all their hope

So they will take it as a sign

That there’s nothing they can do

They will never be divine

It has to be now we’re out of time

while she lounge

and live my dream

she’s trying so hard to redeem

all those heathens who

Already blew their shot

so if I want this paradise

then you must go to Shlorp and pay the price

back down there

oh no I’d rather not

this place is her end of the deal

your proposition has no appeal

Her proposition has no appeal

How dare she try and threaten me

cause she fell in love

and she chose to flee

I’ll just keep doing as I please

and who is she to disagree

Now move you bitch

you’re blocking my way

What?!

You mustn’t know me very well

you speaking to the future ruler of Shlorp

I could bring you down

Hav you begging on your knees

I couldn’t care less what you lead

My power simply far exceeds

you authority and that’s guarantee

Oh I’m sorry Jessica

But we’ve never needed you till now

So with all do respect

Get up and do somethi-

What was that?

Mmhhh that’s what I thought

I always win

I’m gonna make her wish she died with him

For her sins

Cause when I’m done

She’ll barley recognize what she’s become

oh this will be fun…

The song ends as Past Aundryus snarks

The flashback ends as Korvo looks horrified

Korvo: Oh… my… God…

Tortus: A tragedy isn't it?

Korvo: Yes yes.

Tortus: Ever since that day, I vow to restore Shlorp to it’s original glory just the way my father vision even if it means, taken down Shlorpians who refused!

Korvo becomes horrified and enraged by this revelation silently. Korvo's fist clenches:

Tortus: Now let’s head to the New Order. We got work to do.

Korvo: Yes sir…

Korvo and Tortus heads inside the New Order where the others are waiting for them.

Bee: We have troubling news, sir.

Tortus: What is it?!

Bee: It appears that more heathens are about to arrive soon enough.

Tortus slams his fist on the table

Tortus: GOD DAMN IT! HAS THE EXECUTION BEEN SCHEDULED?!

Xinna: Yes, sir.

Tortus: Good… I am counting on it… *clenches his fist*

Korvo began to grow nervous as he looks at Kim-La sadly.

Korvo: Kim-La, can we please talk later?

Kim-La: Of course.

[thestalwartheart]

20 questions for fic writers

Thank you for the tag, @aniron48 ❤️ This was such a nice way to wrap up this year, and to remember what I'd written!

Tagging @cicerfics @dixkens @dassandre-00qpidsarrow @boffin1710 @samanthahirr and whoever else wants to play along!

Answers under the cut!

1. How many works do you have on AO3? 82! I feel like I blacked out and blinked and woke up with a horrifying number of fics!

2. What’s your total A03 word count? 385,997 😨

3. What fandoms do you write for? James Bond mostly. Also Glass Onion/Knives Out. I don't write for The Witcher anymore, but I have in the past. On my laptop is a lot of unfinished Star Trek fic - mainly Kirk/Spock - and a crack at some Arthur/Eames (from Inception).

4. What are your top five fics by kudos?

being with you (is the best of all)

date, interrupted

the places you leave in the dust

a rank above

by any other name

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not? I do try to, and I mostly succeed. I like to thank people for investing their time with my work, and I also like getting to know people in fandom. There's still 100+ comments I need to get back to, and some of them are very old. I will get to them though!!! I promise!

6. What’s the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending? Anything involving the MCD tag. There was also a short called garden that was very sad for other reasons.

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending? Either being with you (is the best of all) or dispatches from the division.

8. Do you get hate on fics? Not really, though I've had a few rude comments and bookmark notes. One person let me know across three chapters that they hated my characterisation of Bond so much they were tempted to rewrite the ending! But most people are lovely. The Bond fandom is small and most of us have our heads screwed on the right way.

9. Do you write smut? Frequently and without shame. There are 29 E-rated fics in my backlog for your reading pleasure.

10. Do you write crossovers? I have a Knives Out/James Bond crossover series where Bond and Blanc are detectives competing for Q's attention.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen? Not that I'm aware of!

12. Have you ever had a fic translated? Yes and I am endlessly grateful for people who are more talented with languages than I am ❤️

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before? Just a team poem for 007 Fest, though I have worked with beta readers.

14. What’s your all-time favourite ship? Kirk/Spock forever.

15. What’s the WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will? I had a multiverse fic I posted a chapter of that I don't think I have the energy for anymore. I was so undecided about the ending that I lost interest in writing it.

16. What are your writing strengths? I think I'm good with characters and details. My writing has been called immersive by a few people, and I do really pride myself on building atmosphere. I think I can turn a good phrase occasionally too!

17. What are your writing weaknesses? I need to get better at proofreading for typos. I'm quite lazy with plotting and planning as well. I definitely need to work on that for an original novel I'm writing!

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic? I only do it if it's necessary, and I'm so glad AO3 now has a hover feature for immediate translation. One of my pet peeves at uni was how often scholars used random French and Latin words or phrases when they didn't need to!!!

19. First fandom you wrote for? HP, probably. Or Glee. Those fics have been purged from the internet now 😂

20. Favourite fic you’ve ever written? Either dispatches from the division or the WIP I'm in the process of posting now, called the age of change.

Shout out to everyone who has made it to the end! As a reward, please enjoy this picture of my cat flopped over in her cat tree ❤️

[incendio22]

FOR THE HOPE OF IT ALL

Chapter 9: Quidditch Try-Outs

Normally the try-outs happen in early September, but given last year's prohibition of quidditch Headmaster Black decided that the try-outs would take place in mid-October. A month had passed and Ominis had not come closer to figuring the prophecy out. Since classes weren't taking up all of my time, I had plenty of hours to practice duelling in the Undercroft as well as improving my skills on the broom. At this point, I was a more than solid flyer and Imelda had even let me practice as a keeper which I had gotten better and better at.

It is October 11th and as I step out on the quidditch field I am surrounded by other Slytherin students that are trying out for the team. You can barely see more than 10 metres ahead due to the heavy fog and massive raindrops that are covering the castle. Some second and third-years are warming up on their brooms while some people are trying to catch the snitch, unsuccessfully. This isn't looking hopeful for Slytherin, I think.

''Y/n!'' It's Imelda's highly pitched voice coming from the centre of the field. ''I'm so glad you're trying out. With you on our team, we might actually have a chance at winning this year's quidditch cup!''

''You convinced me after all that training. This, however, isn't looking too hopeful.'' I say and nod towards the younger Slytherin students trying to chase the snitch.

Imelda is wrinkling her nose and gives me a funny look. As a matter of fact, she is growing on me and I do not despise her nearly as much as I used to. She sighs and presses her thumb and index finger on her nasal bone.

''Don't get started.'' She says angrily as if she's on the verge of a breakdown. ''But I have seen you. You're a fast flyer. And your vision is solid. Maybe you'll make the cut for seeker.''

I had never spent much time thinking about which position I would want to have, but keeper is the one I feel most comfortable with. Finally, Imelda announces that it's my turn to try out. She lets me protect the goals, which I do successfully. But before I touch the ground she stops me. She holds the golden snitch in her hand.

''I want to see how well you do as a seeker.'' She releases her firm gold of the snitch and it quickly finds its way somewhere in the fog, nowhere to be seen. ''Off you go! Find it!''

I take off, trying to see but my attempts are unsuccessful. Eventually, when it feels as if my face is gonna fall off from the cold I see it. After having it within eyesight for a moment, I manage to catch it and get down on the ground. I hold it in front of Imelda proudly. She looks even more proud than me.

''Well done.'' She actually looks impressed.

She announces that try-outs are over and she will announce later tonight who made it on the team and who didn't.

The day passes and it takes me a solid few hours to get the heat back up. I'm wearing my warmest sweater as I make my way towards the common room. On the way I pick up a hot cup of tea, not really because I want to drink it but because I need to get my fingers warm. The Slytherin common room is cold naturally, but right now it feels colder than ever.

I see Imelda standing in front of the massive windows facing the Black Lake, surrounded by almost every Slytherin student. You can feel the tension in the air - The nervosity, the pride. I recognize many of them from earlier today, at the quidditch field. Sebastian is sitting in a couch with his face buried deep into a book, seeming completely unaware that the entire house of Slytherin is standing next to him. It always fascinated me how he could just disappear into a book like that, letting it consume his entire surroundings. As Imelda announces the positions for chasers, beater and keeper I don't hear my name. This means that I either didn't make the cut, or I'm becoming our new seeker.

''And our last announcement is for our new seeker...'' She is letting the tension build up and everyone seems most excited to hear about this specific position. Finally she breaks the silence. ''Welcome our new seeker - Y/n!''

Everyone is applauding and cheering, but I don't care about their praise. I look at Sebastian and for the first time since I arrived he looks up from his book and stands up, clapping and cheering. My face lights up with joy and I run over to him. He holds out his arms and I hug him. His arms lifts me up firmly and spins me around. I feel dizzy from the euphoric feelings that are running through my body. I'm not sure if it's his touch, or the fact that I managed to get the most desired position on the team.

''Not bad for a new girl.'' He says and grins. ''Sporty and good at duelling? You never stop surprising me.''

''I have more layers than that.'' I say with a cocky tone. ''You just don't know all of them yet.''

''Is that so?'' He tilts his head, still grinning but also looking a bit intrigued. ''Well, then I simply must be enlightened.''

''I'm rather good at potions.'' I say and he looks confused and surprised.

''I'm aware of that. Are you telling me that you're actually not full of surprises, Y/n?'' He mocks me. ''Are you telling me that I actually  do read you like a book?''

I shake my head frustratedly. He pulls me away and leads me out into the castle corridor.

''Have you heard about the Room of Requirement?'' He asks as soon as we leave the common room.

I nod.

''Then I demand you show me yours. If it is what I expect, you owe me one. If it's not, then I guess I owe you one.'' He says and starts leading the way.

When we enter the Room of Requirement, my room, and his muth falls to the floor when he sees the walls covered in books. Almost all of them are unread and untouched, but they still impress him. Above us, the sky full of stars shows itself through the glass ceiling and he also notices the balcony with a grand telescope. He actually looks surprised.

''I have to admit, this is not what I expected.'' He says. ''Didn't know you were into astronomy this much.''

''The stars and the universe always fascinated me.'' I say. ''There's so much out there that we know nothing about. It just gets me every time.''

''I get it. It's the same way for me when it comes to books.'' He says in an understanding voice. ''I guess I owe you one, then. Anytime, new girl.''

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Anonymous

Published: Feb 8, 2023

• An anonymous student speaks out about transgender ideology in her school  • The student, aged 14, attends a state secondary school in South-East England • Claimed teachers say Lady Macbeth non-binary and girls wear breast binders

She’s 14 and attends a co-educational state secondary in South-East England — where she says one in ten children in her year identifies as trans or non-binary. After becoming increasingly upset by the school’s acceptance of transgender ideology, this female student has decided to expose the truth about life in an ongoing culture war.

The other day, I went to the school office to get a new copy of the timetable. The teacher I spoke to used ‘they/them’ pronouns about me, asking another member of staff, ‘they have lost their timetable, can they have a new one?’

He knows me really well and it’s clear that I’m a girl. I felt furious he didn’t just say ‘she’. But it’s not just the odd teacher here or there; I am regularly asked if I am in the process of transitioning.

There is a gender-neutral uniform policy at school and lots of the girls wear trousers. Those of us that do are often asked if we are transgender, especially if we have short hair, as I do.

The fact a girl likes playing video games, or doesn’t like feminine clothes or make-up is enough to be seen as potentially trans. When my mum complained about me being called ‘they’, the teacher apologised but explained he was being cautious in case I was transitioning. He said the teachers are treading on eggshells, scared of being labelled transphobic.

It feels like trans is all anyone talks about. The library has a section devoted to LGBTQQIA+ books and there is a display for Pride in the school entrance, with rainbow flags and words and terms such as ‘non-binary‘, ‘polysexual’, ‘demiboy’, ‘demigirl’ and ‘pansexual’. These words come up in lessons, too. I’m now in Year 10, and the other day a girl in my English class asked if the Greek god Zeus was a man or a woman and the teacher replied that Zeus could have ‘identified as non-binary’.

More recently another teacher said Lady Macbeth was ‘neither a man nor a woman’. I think most parents will have no clue this is what their kids are being taught.

So I’m glad the Education Secretary Gillian Keegan is set to tell schools they must be more open about their handling of trans issues. I would be too scared to say this at school, though. I would lose my friends if I did, as they’re completely intolerant of anything they think is transphobic.

That’s what made me decide to speak out here — without giving my real name.

When I started at my secondary school four years ago, I didn’t even know what ‘transgender’ meant. It hadn’t been talked about in primary school or at home. But within days, we were told by a teacher in our PSHE (personal, social, health and economic education) class that we would be seen as ‘transphobic’ if we used any of the ‘offensive words’ from a long list, which included ‘gender bender’ and ‘butch’.

I had no idea what transphobic meant, but I could tell it was definitely something I didn’t want to be seen as. At that age, when you are told something at school you just believe it. We trusted that what the teachers told us was true. 

But I did ask my mum about it later. She is a feminist and is critical of students being dictated to. She said that often it depends how you use words — that people within queer communities have used ‘gender bender’ as a positive way to describe themselves and that ‘butch’ is used by lesbians to describe other lesbians who are quite masculine in appearance.

While still in my first year, 11-year-old girls in my class began asking to be called ‘he’ or ‘them’.

Soon afterwards a number of others were doing the same. It felt as if they joined in because it meant they were seen as cool.

You get special treatment if you say you are trans or non-binary and suddenly become the centre of attention when you ‘come out’.

As soon as a girl says she is a boy, her name is changed on the school register and students are told to use their chosen boy’s name.

Now, out of 200 students in my year, at least 20 say they’re trans — almost all are girls claiming to be boys or non-binary. Although there is one boy saying he’s a girl, this really is largely about girls saying they are boys. The kids in my year don’t say they are lesbian or gay, because those words are thought to be an insult.

There is a straight boy going out with a straight girl who says she is trans, so he now has to say that he’s bisexual. It’s often said by my schoolmates that trans girls are ‘better’ girls than ‘other girls’. I find this insulting. But the teachers don’t take any action even if they do hear conversations like this.

Recently, I was watching a news item with friends about the changes to the Gender Recognition Act in Scotland and every time a guest on the programme said, ‘this is a threat to sex-based rights’, my friends were sneering and laughing. It made me feel as though girls have no rights and are not respected in my school.

There is constant talk of transphobia and bigotry and many of the students who say they are trans constantly talk about being ‘victims’, with anyone who isn’t trans being the perpetrator.

Coming out as a lesbian or gay doesn’t have the same effect, but barely any students do, in my experience.

My friend Kelley* was ‘affirmed’ [accepted without question] as a boy in Year 7. She has serious mental health issues and is regularly off school as she self-harms.

Kelley socially transitioned without any teacher challenging her. She has a new name and can now use the boys’ changing rooms. All my friends pretty much believe in ‘gender identity’. Girls and boys are referred to by teachers and students as ‘assigned female at birth’ or ‘assigned male at birth’. This is shortened to AFAB and AMAB.

There is also confusing language such as the word for being attracted to non-binary people, ‘skoliosexual’. I find it ridiculous — but can’t say that.

There is a lot of breast-binding going on, too, but we don’t know who might be on puberty blockers because no one talks about that. One trans-identified girl wants to get a breast binder, but was complaining that her parents would not want her to.

I joined the Equalities Club because I believe in equal rights for all, then found it was impossible to talk about any group, other than trans people, that was discriminated against. There’s a rule against wearing badges in school but some students wear trans flag and pronoun badges and nobody tells them off.

Recently, a group of us were watching Prime Minister’s Questions and when MPs talked about maternity care, using the terms ‘birthing partner’ and ‘non-birthing partner’, I wondered out loud why they didn’t just say ‘mother’.

I was told off by a friend who said that not everyone with a cervix is a woman. I didn’t want to disagree because I knew what would happen — I would be publicly humiliated.

Until now, I’ve just gone along with most of it. But there are some things I can’t leave alone. For example, I really like J. K. Rowling but she was called a ‘TERF’ (Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist) by a friend, who said she was heartbroken to hear that J.K. was ‘anti-trans’.

I asked in what way J.K. was transphobic but this friend couldn’t give me an answer, she just said: ‘I hope all TERFS drop dead.’ I was shocked by her anger.

There have also been violent comments on social media towards ‘transphobes’ with students from the school threatening to strangle them.

That’s why I’m writing this piece anonymously, although I believe I should be able to say these things without fear of attack. I want adults to know what it’s really like in schools like mine now.

*Names have been changed.

==

This confusion, this uncertainty isn't a bug of Queer Theory, it's the explicitly stated intent. When nobody can trust anything about the world, they can't know whether to oppress you or to give you the privileges associated with being an oppressor. No more "systemic" oppression. One of the big problems is that this constantly questioning your own perceptions is a tactic of Malignant Narcissistic Personality Disorder. It's no wonder it attracts narcissists.

https://segm.org/England-ends-gender-affirming-care

The new NHS guidance recognizes social transition as a form of psychosocial intervention and not a neutral act, as it may have significant effects on psychological functioning. The NHS strongly discourages social transition in children, and clarifies that social transition in adolescents should only be pursued in order to alleviate or prevent clinically-significant distress or significant impairment in social functioning, and following an explicit informed consent process.

It's Psych 101 that affirmation solidifies belief, because it wires the amygdala to accept the belief as reality. If you keep telling someone "yes, you are a victim, the world is out to get you," they'll become helpless and incapable. If a therapist actually recommended affirmation therapy for those with anorexia nervosa - "if you think you're overweight, you must be, since you're the expert on you. In fact, you could probably even stand to lose a few more lbs" - we'd know they were incompetent and dangerous.

https://cutdowntree.substack.com/i/54708841/metaphysics-of-marginalization

If those who are born Black or disabled are the chosen, trans people are the converts who have voluntarily accepted Marginalization. They choose to suffer more from their involuntary embodiment. Because of this, they become virtuous. They are saved.

[oc3anic-ang3l]

Hello, I’m Ameera a 23 years old Muslim lesbian who is trying to come out, I’ve been in the closet with my girlfriend for way too long, because of how dangerous and hard it is to come out as a lesbian to a religious Muslim family, but me and my girlfriend have decided to do whatever it takes and risk it all to come out, do you mind supporting and encouraging us?, we have the plan to go away which is why I have my donation campaign pinned on my profile, if I raise at least that goal I can start the process with my savings, I can’t come out until I’d gotten my apartment and I’m away from family, so please support by donating if you can and help reblog though I know we all have what we dealing with, so I’m not imposing we just need all the support and encouragement we can get, check my pinned post for more information on how you can support, if you are a Muslim queer and you are out, please help with tips on how to make it less complicated, any word of advice is also really needed, we really wanna come out but we need y’all 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ pride please come through for us, I believe pride is for all

hi Ameera! (love your name btw) thank you for reaching out. although i myself am not Muslim and cannot give any tips on that front, i am queer as well and i can acknowledge how dangerous it is to come out to non-accepting family. i wish both you and your girlfriend the best during this time in both of your lives and please know you have my full support and this platform.

with that being said, i will 100% check out your blog and donate what i can. in the meantime, i will be sure to reblog as well. (both on this blog and my side blog, too)

please also know that you are in no way imposing on anyone by reaching out and asking for help. we as a community are meant to be there for each other, and i am so glad that you found this blog and sent me this ask. you and your girlfriend are also very brave in making this decision to come out to your family, and i wanted to commend you for having the strength to work through the moving process in order to reach a safer place.

and one last thing—i completely agree with you that Pride is for all, and believing in our community is what is able to get us through circumstances like these.

once again, i wish you two the best on this journey together, and to all my followers—please take this opportunity to do what you can for this lovely person and to help in whatever way you can.

[ohtobeleah]

For those who are slightly interested, this is my wedding speech from Sunday.

Hello:

Not many people get to say that they have the kindest, most beautiful, selfless, sister in the world. But Sam, I’m so glad, that you can say all of those things.

For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing my pure grace, hi my name is Leah and I’m Sam’s older, but much shorter sister.

They say big sisters always have a shadow, and for as much as Sam will deny deny deny, I have forever had a sneaking suspicion that my shadow had a best friend.

From having the privilege of the back of the buss in primary school as a kindergartener, to skipping the line in the canteen during my senior high school years ~ you were always there reeping the privileges and experiences the true power that having an older sister holds.

But I have gathered some additional evidence to suggest that you, my dear sister, will always and forever be my shadows best friend and life long companion. In no particular order I introduce:

Exhibit A: Following the tradition of house captain and spirit of the year award. It doesn’t shock me in the slightest bit that you wanted not one, but two [redacted] names on that shiny new Wilson house plaque.

Exhibit B: Deciding that a career in the fitness industry as a leading professional sounded like a pretty good choice. Sam, you are an exceptionally talented personal trainer. And as i watch you continue to educate yourself to provide the best possible experience to your clients, all I can say is that I’m so unbelievably proud of how much you have accomplished.

Onto Exhibit C: An August wedding accompanied by a burnt terracotta colour scheme. I swear some of us are having a crazy case of de ja vu. But we will always be able celebrate the best days of our lives three weeks apart.

Ladies and gentlemen of the jury I could go on and on forever……and I’m going to do exactly that.

When Sam and I were growing up, we had a cubby house that was our pride and joy. In the beginning it started off as a clubhouse. A place where no adults were allowed and where we ruled the whole world.

Slowly but surely it became a kitchen, kitted out with state of the art equipment and empty cardboard boxes from the pantry that we swore to mum we didn’t take. This kitchen was the backdrop for many mud pies, always made with the finest ingredients such as Dad’s high quality sand, mums favourite instant coffee, whatever lawn trimmings we could get our hands on, and the occasional snail shell.

Overtime it slowly transitioned to a classroom, where I’d teach you wrong math skills and you’d look up at me with a dear in headlights stare. I take absolutely no responsibility for your childhood education.

Our cubby house could withstand any situation that the weather would throw at it, so much so that when dad handed us three bottles of water based paint one weekend after we’d begged him to let us paint it bright pink and purple, we were shocked to see all are hard work immediately wash away that same afternoon.

That was the moment we learned that the weather forecast existed and our dad had outsmarted us on an elite level.

Eventually as we grew and our beloved cubby turned kitchen turned school, became a dog house for our childhood dog, Jessie. But it stood tall for years and years watching us grow.

Sam, you now have your own cubby house. A real house where you can escape from the real world. You have a real kitchen to cook whatever you’re heart desires, a kitchen where you don’t have to use dads top dollar concrete mix as salt, or mums instant coffee that again, swore we never took.

Home is where the heart is and wherever you and Troy find yourselves in life is exactly where your home will be.

Troy, take care of my baby sister and I know she’ll take care of you. If you’re lucky I may even relinquish my driveway space for you at mums……if you’re lucky. I am proud and above all honoured to call myself your sister in law.

You balance each other perfectly, an all encompassing representation of ying and yang. As your chosen reading said: two people are better off than one, and there is no other person who could love our cheeky beeky girl like you do. The only love that could possibly rival your love for Sam is your love for chainsaws.

To finish up, because I know I’ve well and truly exceeded my daily Leah quota, I’ll end on this:

Sam and Troy, on behalf of myself and Bailey ~ our biggest peace of advice for the both of you entering this life long journey, is that it isn’t always a 50/50 split.

Sometimes it’s 75 percent to 25, other days it can look like 40/60 and on occasion, 99 to 1. But the goal at the end of each and every day, is to be at 100%, together.

Happy wedding day.