#I love making fighters their levels go by so much faster.

[that-one-vangogh-painting]

‼️Blood under the cut‼️

Finally posting some details about one of my D&D characters--Foxtrot. Apologies in advance, this is gonna be a long one. He's partly a Watership Down oc because I can't make a Harengon character and NOT make everything about Watership Down, so for anyone who isn't familiar with the conlang in that book I'll put translations for every Lapine word I use! I won't go into too much detail about everything, partly because no one wants to read that and partly because my D&D party follows me here and there's still a few secrets I want to keep.

Foxtrot's Lapine name is Homba-Suíl (pronounced "HOM-bah shool"). Homba means fox, but since there isn't any Lapine word for "trot" or anything similar I took the Gaelic word "suíl," meaning "speed" or "movement". I've always felt that Lapine sounds like it needs to be spoken in an Irish accent, so it only made sense to draw inspiration from that language. His name is meant to mean "speed of a fox," which is actually an insult from his mother (rabbits are of course much faster than foxes), who never saw any potential in him when he was born.

Foxtrot is albino, making him naturally disadvantaged because he has poor eyesight and his coat makes it hard for him to hide. He's also a very small rabbit, so everyone in his warren always expected him to die pretty early. Ironically, despite the name he was given, Foxtrot grew up to be the fastest runner in the warren. This caught the attention of the chief rabbit Marlirah (MAR-lee-rah, "mother queen"), who invited Foxtrot to join her owsla (military force, similar to a king's guard). He was the youngest and smallest member of the owsla, and the other officers didn't take kindly to him being there </3 Foxtrot didn't really get upset about not having any friends though. He was completely and totally devoted to Marlirah, and as long as he had the chance to serve her he was the luckiest rabbit alive. All of the rabbits in the warren practically worshiped Marlirah, but Foxtrot had a particular love for her because she had believed in him when no one else did.

One day during a particularly brutal battle, Foxtrot received a devastating head injury, and woke up to find that he had been separated from Marlirah and the rest of the officers. His memories were pretty scrambled, and he spent the next year or so wandering around searching aimlessly for the others. He doesn't remember most of the period after waking up. The party found him sometime during this wandering period, after his wound had mostly healed but his amnesia was still very present.

Now my little level two fighter has to fight vampires with these crazy jackasses. Oh how the times have changed.

[pochipop]

＃GENSHIN IMPACT !! ♡ — ON THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON (CHILDE X READER).

#. synopsis! — childe knows he doesn't deserve this, but he just can't let you go .

#. characters! — childe .

#. warnings! — angst .

#. word count! — 1k .

#. alt accounts! — @ddollipop (nsfw) @yyolkchi (reblog/spam) .

#. others! — navigation & masterlist .

#. a/n! — this is my "from the vault" era. most of the things i'll be posting for a while will probably have been started anywhere from a few months to over a year ago. i have a huge google doc just stocked with fics that i started and never finished, so i'm trying to wrap some of them up neatly enough to post them and at least let them see the light of day lol.

It’s always lonely at the top.

On nights like this, Childe realizes that now more than ever. Snezhnaya is his home, —but in a more abstract sense of the term. He knows the snow-covered lands and the bitter chill of frost like the backs of his scarred hands, and yet this nation feels less like the soft place he can fall upon each time he returns from somewhere else. It’s the center of his youth, the place that fills most of his heart, but things have certainly changed since he was little more than a young boy who loved making angels in the snow. The world moves faster now; days bleed into weeks in a matter of moments, and there are many times Childe wishes that the weather could freeze time like it does everything else around here.

Still, maybe it’s better that it doesn't. Even if it did somehow, he’s not sure how he’d spend that time anyway. A part of him is all too certain that he’d waste it away, losing sight of his goals within seconds.

He’s always been too driven by madness for his own good.

The viscous truth of it all is that Childe craves acceptance, but doesn’t really like to be loved. Even as you sleep next to him, his arm clutched in your warm, forgiving grip; he doesn’t know how to put such thoughts to the wayside. Selfishly, he wants you. Sometimes, it feels like he needs you. Realistically, though, Childe knows he shouldn’t have you. You’re not much of a fighter, and your only ties to the Fatui are through him, which he holds an insurmountable level of shame and regret for. If not for him, he’s certain your life would be a lot less complicated.

You’ve even said so yourself, albeit only jokingly. Those few little quips hold just enough water for Childe to drown himself in them, though. He wants to push you away as his lungs fill in and oxygen depletes, but you’re so goddamn intoxicating that he can’t bear the thought of parting ways. You snuggle closer to him as if seeking the heat of his body, —as if seeking the protection it offers from any ghoulish figures that could pop up in your otherwise sugar coated dreams.

Childe isn’t sure what he’d do without this, —without the ability to come staggering home to you. Truthfully, you’re more of a home to him now than Snezhnaya has ever been. He yearns for nights like this more than you’ll ever know, more than he’ll ever be able to articulate properly, because Celestia knows he’s never been very good with words.

Not when they’re genuine, anyway.

He can put on a show just fine, put that charismatic mask on and make strangers fall to their knees at his feet. But once they get a glimpse of the monster inside that lusts for violence and bloodshed on every battlefield, they run for the hills. And Childe isn't naive enough to wonder why. He knows, probably better than anyone else ever will, that he is hard to love, and even more difficult to be loved by.

When everything is going steady, he likes to send some ripples through the water just because he can. He pushes buttons he knows he should leave alone, —maybe because he can’t help himself, or maybe because deep down, he wants to push you away. You can’t just up and decide that you want to see him rot his way back into the earth beneath his feet if he flips all the right switches and makes it happen at will. There’s no disappointment to be had there if he’s the one who incites it; like flicking a match and watching your house go up in flames.

If he does it to himself, there’s no reason to be sad about it.

Self-sabotage has always been kind of his thing. Still, here you are with your soft tufts of breath fanning against him, trusting him not to let himself snap to the point of no return and burn everything down around you both (figuratively and literally.) And for the life of him, —Childe doesn’t get it. He really doesn’t. You’ve always wanted a simpler life, one you know he can’t give you. . . But here you are, and he doesn’t have the heart to push you away like he knows deep down that he should.

If he’s being honest with himself, and this is one of the rare times that he is, he knows he should be building his walls high enough to force you out if that’s what it takes. Everytime you lay with him like this, he knows he’s stealing that tranquil life you’ve always wanted away from you, and it eats him up inside. He’s not what’s best for anybody, nonetheless for you.

He knows, he knows, he knows. . . He really should just—

“Hey,” you say softly, and his resolve crumbles away like the walls he tries to build between himself and you. “Can’t sleep?”

Childe looks over at you and pauses for a few moments, admiring the way you love him, even when he doesn’t deserve it. Then he thinks to himself that he’s never truly deserved it, and the cycle begins again. He hums in acknowledgement, and you hold him closer, like you’re trying to mend all his broken pieces back together (even if you don’t know it.) It won’t help him sleep, but it feels nice to be cared for like this. To be loved, to be seen. . . To be stripped bare in the moonlight that spills in from your window is a blessing sent straight from Celestia, and it makes him wonder just what he’s ever done well enough to have ended up here in his lifetime.

“You’re thinking too much,” you say.

He almost laughs, pressing a gentle kiss to the crown of your head.

“Yeah,” he agrees, “I know.”

[jaehyunsprincesspeach2]

Messed With the Wrong Girl… (part one)

Pairing: bf!Tsukasa x fem!Reader

Warnings: angst, kidnapping, slight violence, mild language, happy ending

Wc: 1.4k

AN: The High and Low series simply does not have enough content, so I decided I would write some myself. Here is part 1!! Part 2 will be coming out soon!! I’m excited for this one, and if you haven’t watched the High and Low series, I highly recommend it :)

Much love ~ ember

I’m in deep this time…

The first thought in your mind, as you are being taken away. You can hear the group of boys who had just kidnapped you laughing, and high-fiving, saying that Oya High is going to regret messing with them.

Senomon Technical High School. Even after their brawl with Oya high, they still linger around like roaches in an old motel. They had successfully taken Tsukasa the first time, and now you. How did you end up in this situation? You were simply waiting for your boyfriend to meet up with you after school. It was rare for Tsukasa to be late, so you waited out front of Oya high, hoping that he would be there soon, knowing that even the entrance of the school is not the safest place to be. It’s not that you can’t take care of yourself, you grew up in a family of fighters and gangs, they taught you everything they knew. However, when it's one against five, the odds are shifted quite a bit…

Since you transferred to Oya high, your life has been eventful, to say the least. You were sent there because of your habit of fighting at your previous schools, and options were running low. Despite what others think, you are rather patient, and level headed, until someone starts talking bad about someone you care about, after that, its game over. Once you started at Oya, it was like you indirectly owned the place. Being one of the few females that attended the school, you always had someone around to protect you if a fight broke out, as it does everyday. The guys wouldn’t let you fight, but they were well aware that you could, if needed. Conveniently, you have the luck of almost always being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Inside the school walls, Tsukasa has always been the one to protect you. It’s one of the things that drew you to him. However, outside of the school, if Tsukasa wasn’t around, you were out of luck. Thankfully, most of your time outside of school was spent with Tsukasa, and Fujio.

However, this time, your luck ran out. One minute you are in front of Oya high, the next, there is a nylon bag over your head, and you are being carried away. You knew it was Senomon Tech, seeing the group of boys walking towards your general direction, though you were hoping they would keep walking past. Naive thoughts like that are how people end up in your situation, in this town.

Tsukasa POV

I am so late, and I couldn't let y/n know considering I was in the middle of a fight… I'm sure she’s waiting out front, it’ll be okay Tsukasa…

My thoughts running through my head faster than my feet are carrying me. The fight that broke out was unexpected, I didn't even have time to get my things gathered before it happened. Being late drives me crazy, and especially in a town like this, I gotta make sure y/n is okay

“Hey babe, sorry for not texting you sooner, a fight broke out right as I was leaving. Where are you?”

There, y/n is always good about messaging back.

*30 minutes later*

“Y/n, where are you? It’s been 30 minutes, it never takes you this long to answer? Are you okay?”

*one hour later*

“Fujio, something’s wrong, y/n isn’t answering my messages…”

“I’m sure she’s okay, Tsukasa. She’s pretty tough.”

“No, she always answers right away, something is wrong. We have to go find her.”

Buzz buzz

“Y/n? Where are you? Are you okay?”

“I figured you would be worried about her. She’s okay, for now.”

That voice… I know that voice too well. “Where is she, let me talk to her”

Y/n POV

“She’s okay, for now”

So he’s the one who took Tsukasa? And he thinks I’m gonna listen to anything he says? This guy must be an idiot

Simple thoughts rolling through your head, though they’re constant. Beating yourself up for getting into this situation, you avoid looking at anyone, as you are tied to the railing, unable to get out.

“I think I’ll keep her here for a while, it’s nice having a pretty face around. I told you Senomon would come back for you, and I know she’s the crown jewel of Oya high, don't go thinking this time will be anything like the last.” He said before hanging up the phone.

“How sweet that you have such a caring boyfriend, y/n.” The man said with a smug look on his face. “I wonder how long it’ll take him to call back asking about a negotiation…” he continues.

You dont let out any words, but your face says everything you want to, and there was no way that anyone could miss the message. Though you were saying nothing, your face read, you’re an idiot, and you’re gonna get your ass kicked.

Picking up on the message, the man stood up, calmly walking towards you.

“I’m Amagai Kohei. I run this school. And I’m not afraid to set you straight if I have to. Be obedient, and we won't have any issues. Disobey me, and it’ll be another story.” He said now looking at you straight in the eyes, much closer than you would like.

“Such a pretty face, I'll keep you around for a while.” He says, grabbing your chin, turning your head to look at him, though you refuse.

“Look at me while I’m talking to you.” He says in a stern tone that you ignore.

Pushing you aside, he stands up again and walks back to his original spot. The silence fills the room, as you refuse to say anything to anyone, and everyone is waiting for you to say something. Anything.

“I guess things may have to be done the hard way. Suzaki. She looks a little too comfortable. Tighten her wrists more.” He says calmly, though you can hear the intent behind each word. He wants to break you. He wants to make you his. He wants you to be in pain till you have no choice other than to listen, because only then will he allow you to be comfortable. But you know your strength. You know that he wouldn’t be foolish enough to do anything too terrible to you. So, being the stubborn person that you are, you stand your ground.

As Suzaki walks over to tighten the rope that is around your wrist, you wait till he is close enough, and without any suspicion, his feet are kicked out from underneath him. Pure shock filled the room, and stretched across everyone’s faces, even Suzaki.

Kohei, with his short temper, immediately stood up and stormed to you. Grabbing your shirt by the collar, he took a hold of you. *Smack!!*

The sound echoed throughout the room, and shock filled everyone that was present. You didn't move. You let the stinging pain settle in, refusing to give the man the satisfaction of knowing that he hurt you. You bit back the yelp, and the tears, that threatened to be released.

Everyone in the room was staring, waiting to see what was going to happen next, and again, without a word and without suspicion, Kohei’s feet were kicked from underneath him. Anger taking over him, he grabbed you again, and let his fist fly, landing just below your eye.

Before he could do anything worse, Suzaki pushed Kohei back.

“Ko-Chan, we don't hit girls! How can you sink that low?” Suzaki says in a thunderous voice.

Without another word, Kohei leaves the room, storming off. Before Suzaki left, he apologized for Kohei’s actions. He would have offered to bring you an ice pack, but shortly after Kohei stormed off, he yelled for Suzaki to follow him, leaving you alone.

That night was the loneliest you had been in a long time. Usually you would be with Tsukasa, watching movies, cuddling, eating your favorite take-out food, but instead you were tied down, left alone in a room, in a place that you are not familiar with. The throbbing sensation on your cheek kept you awake, thinking about what Tsukasa is doing. Thinking about how mad he is going to be when he sees your black eye, and rope burns around your wrists. Hoping he doesnt get mad at you for getting into a situation like this.

[karniss-bg3]

Perspective

I awaken. It is cold.

My eyes open to view darkness unending. The distance seems so short and yet I know it to be expansive beyond reason. I know not what was here before my malformed steps touched the earth but it doesn’t matter. All that matters is Her light, Her grace. I feel Her with me at all times and Her gaze never leaves me. I am protected, I am loved, but why is it so cold? The chill burrows into my very bones gnawing at the marrow with its icy bite. My energy is drawn from my very flesh only to fade away into the aether, stolen from me without my permission. How much has been ripped away? How much more must I wither before my ascension? I will shepherd Her faithful, I will be worthy of Her light. Majesty.

“Hey, legs! Get down here!”

The voice, it rattles my ears and prickles my skin. Yet another of my Queen’s followers, a parasite that I will excise from Her ranks. Time, I still need time. For now I shall play along, I will do as I am told until only She and I remain. None will love you as I do, Majesty. Surely you must know that.

I retreat from my perch atop the tower and follow the nagging that beckons me. I keep your gift close to my breast, my Queen. None may touch, it belongs to me and only to me. I know that you have blessed me because of how loyal I am, how true. The rest are vermin, scuttling about spreading their vile diseases like the pests they are. I can cleanse them, fix them, make them valuable in your service.

There he is, the little worm. I see his smug smile, his proud stance, so very pleased with himself. I see him for what he really is, a low-born goblin with limited wit. He believes himself above me but I know better. Your mercy is endless, Majesty. But why spare this rabble? I do not understand what use they could be in the face of your magnanimity but it is not for me to know. Why is he smiling at me so? His yellowed teeth and scent of foot fungus offends me on every level, I wish he’d be quick about voicing his desire.

“Speak,” I say, so very impatient.

“What’re you in a ‘urry for, eh? Got all tha time in tha world, haha.”

Every word he speaks makes my stomach churn. I wish to rip his mocking tongue from his skull and crush it to paste in my claws. “We do not have time. Tell us what they want or leave us be.”

“Pfft, no fun you are. My request is pretty simple, open this for me.”

I see him hold out a jar. A jar?! What does this fool think me to be? I am not some simpleton nor am I the village idiot, but he wants me to perform menial tasks? I am a warrior, a fighter, strong and brutal. How dare he insult me, Majesty! “You wish for us to open a jar?” I can feel it, something crawling under the surface of my skin. I must stay calm, my Queen. Give me strength.

“What else are ya good fer? Ya just stand around all day, eyes glazed over n’ shit. Does yer brain float away an’ go on vacation or somethin’?”

I can feel my breath quickening. Every muscle is growing taut. Patience, my Queen. I need to find my patience. Open the jar and walk away, that is all I must do.

“See, yer doin’ it right now. Ya still in there, web-arse? Hellooooo!”

Patience, I must—no, anger. The cold is fading, replaced with a white hot rage. I feel the fury clawing through my chest and up my throat. My eyes burn, my legs tremble, I want to scream but the sound is trapped in my gut. I’ve forgotten how to breathe, the desire to kill stands above all else. My hand moves before I can will it to stop. I grab the jar and clutch it so tight my fingers feel as if they are poised to break.

“You wish it opened?”

“Well, YEAH! Those pigs feet ain’t gonna eat themselves.”

I see crimson, it streaks across my vision and drowns out all other hues. Forgive me, Majesty, but it must be done. He will learn respect. I grab his throat faster than he can react. It’s so fragile and soft in my grasp, I can feel the hastened beat of his heart throbbing against my palm. I take the jar in my other hand and smash it into his face, the glass shattering on impact. Pork hooves scatter across the ground while the remainder are smashed into the little bastards face. I twist my hand and burrow the chunks of glass and keratin into his cheeks and eyes. The sounds of his screams are drowned out in my ears as if my head was dunked under rolling waves. He isn’t smiling anymore and he will never be allowed to look upon my divine visage ever again. I don’t even feel the pain in my hand even though I am aware it is bleeding. Nothing else matters but making this wretch feel as disfigured as I do. A hard lesson learned but one only I could teach.

Time passes in bizarre ways when your focus is so intense. I know not for how long I spent decorating his face but I do know that it took the hands of many to make me cease. I drop the fool, or what is left of him. I care not if he lives, it wouldn’t be a true loss if he didn’t. I hear voices all around me but they are as muffled and inaudible as the pitiful cries of my prey. Perhaps I will be punished, perhaps I even deserve it. If this is your will my Queen then I will do as you wish. You can see how strong I am, how important. No one else can do what is necessary to enact your grand design. No one.

Darkness, I tumble into an endless pit. There is nothing, it all goes blank. Majesty, are you there? I don’t know what is happening. Words, voices, tightness around my neck. Is this death? I don’t wish to die. My Queen, my everything, please deliver me to salvation. I am still useful to you, I will forever be all you could ever need.

Do you hear me?

Do you see me?

Do you—love me?

Silence.

I awaken. It is cold.

[femmefighter]

For the star wars fave/least fave thing!

1, 3, 8, and 19?

Ohhhhh, so many questions. I’m excited to get my teef into these!

Favourite/Least Favourite Movie

Someone else beat you to this punch, so just the short answers.

Favourite: Rogue One

Least Favourite: Solo

3. Favourite/Least Favourite TV show episodes.

Omg, I’m not sticking to just one!! I kinda need to break this all down to the different series. Sorry Andor, you get enough love from everyone else that I'm gonna skip over you. And sorry Book of Boba Fett, I haven't invested enough energy to know you better yet to have strong opinions.

The Mandalorian.

Favourites: Yes I’m giving myself two answers here. Firstly, the Foundling. I love seeing how Bo-Katan goes about fitting in with the Children of the Watch, working out how to live their lifestyle, but then also still showing off her natural leadership qualities and her tenacity. Also, we get the shoulder touch. So fucking gay. Inject that straight (queerly) into my veins.

The second fave is The Jedi. I hadn’t watched any of the animation series before Mando S2, and when she came onto my screen, I sat up and paid attention. Ahsoka Tano, my blorbo beloved. I needed to know everything about her after watching that episode. Cue brainrot.

Least Favourite: Probably the Passenger. Felt like another filler episode. The typical “you only get to progress in the storyline if you fulfil this side quest” was growing old on me by this stage. Plus, giant spiders on an ice planet. Ick. No thanks. And Grogu eating the Frog Lady’s babies, UUUGGGGHHHH!!!!!

Ahsoka series.

Favourite: Time to Fly. It gave me tension-filled Sokabine. It gave me Jacen Syndulla. It gave me Ahsoka doing unhinged stuff like going outside her ship in space to fight off attackers. It gave me Sabine’s gay-panic face. It gave me purrgil. It gave me Huyang being an honest arsehole. It gave me Sabine losing a fight to a cup. I’m more than willing to overlook the completely stupid storyline writing for Hera’s subplot for everything else that episode did give me.

Least favourite: Far, Far Away. Not enough Ahsoka in this episode. And no Hera. So that instantly makes me sad. Also Sabine is written so poorly in this (no shade at Natasha for it, she did well for the poor hand she was dealt). Sabine’s smart, and yet all episode she’s just being all “where’s Ezra?” Smart Sabine wouldn't be standing at her prison door, banging on it and yelling about some deal that can't be fulfilled yet anyway because they aren't even on the fkn planet yet. Smart Sabine would be taking in her situation so much better. She'd be finding air vents to sneak into, so that even if she couldn't escape through them, she'd know the layout of the ship for whenever the New Republic might come up to fight against it. She’s be coming up with a plan to get Ezra and herself back home again once she’s let loose or makes a gaol break. She’d be stealing another TIE fighter with decent scanner equipment and faster travel, not being given a cowardly howler to search an entire planet that Ezra’s been hiding on for ten years on foot. They did her intelligence a massive disservice this episode. Also wasn’t a fan with how contemptuous they made Thrawn of Baylan and the Jedi in general. Chiss culture has a certain reverence for Force-wielders, and even though Kanan and Ezra were the enemies of Thrawn throughout Rebels, he always showed a level of respect towards them. Actually, Thrawn was pretty poorly written for the whole damn show. Bring Tim Zahn to the table to write the character properly, I beg you.

The Clone Wars

Favourite: The Phantom Apprentice. NGL, the last half of season seven of The Clone Wars was peak Star Wars. Fight me. But with this episode in particular, that fight sequence between Ahsoka and Maul, the dialogue leading up to it, the tension and shadow hanging over the entire episode? Perfection. It makes me believe Anakin’s fall so much more, in that Ahsoka’s absence from the events of The Revenge of the Sith speaks more to Anakin’s emotional isolation and manipulation to turn on the Jedi.

Least favourite: Can’t really say a particular episode. There were a number of filler ones that I just yawned through. There was one that focused on Anakin and Padme’s relationship, that was probably my least enjoyable. I get that their relationship was toxic/fucked up/doomed to fail, I don’t want to see more of it. Gives me the ick.

Rebels

Favourite: Twilight of the Apprentice. I get Maul back. Ahsoka is a badass. Kanan is a legend. I cry like a bitch at the end of it. But Ahsoka’s not actually dead either. Wins all round for me.

Also, Hera’s Heroes. Where we get a real introduction to Thrawn. I love his assessment of her. The respect, the admiration, that he has for his enemy. How he sees her as a worthy opponent.

“War, it's all you've ever know, isn't it? You were so young when you survived the Clone Wars, no wonder you're as equipped in spirit to fight as well as you do. War is in your blood. I studied the art of war, worked to perfect it, but you? You were forged by it.”

Gives me shivers. I really hope they do future Thrawn vs Hera justice in upcoming movies/shows, but I know I shouldn’t hold my breath…

Least favourite: Jedi Knight. It was an amazing episode. I don’t think I’ve watched any Star Wars (with perhaps the exception of Rogue One) that’s managed to pull such unexpected emotion out of me. And for that reason, I cannot bring myself to watch it again. I dunno. Maybe one day when I’m feeling emotionally robust. RIP Kanan. You deserved such a heroic death, but you also deserved to live. Fuck you, Governor Pryce.

8. Favourite/Least Favourite Concept

Favourite: That the Force is in everyone. (Yes, even you!) It frustrates me that fandom miss the point of there being a difference between Force-wielding and Force-sensitivity. Anyone can use the Force, but those who are selected to train as Jedi from a young age have a natural ability to wield it, because if you don’t have that natural ability, tapping into it and wielding it is hard. Even those with natural aptitude for the Force find it hard! Ezra Bridger? Force sensitive. Had the abilities from a young age, and just required mentorship/guidance on how to best connect with and use them. Sabine Wren? She has the Force sensitivity of a sandwich. She is not Force-sensitive. Which is why Kanan didn’t ‘pick up on Sabine’s Force sensitivity’, because she didn’t have any! She was just a stubborn woman who decided she wanted to try the seemingly impossible and found a master who was unhinged enough as her to try it too. I think a lot more people could use the lesson from her story, about persistence, patience and hard work paying off. Anywho, end rant there.

Least favourite. That ‘falling to the dark side’ is somehow freeing/a good thing/something to strive for. I hate how they made Osha Aniseya seem like she’d achieved some kind of ‘enlightenment’ from having just killed her father figure, abandoning her sister to have her memory wiped, and teaming up with some attractive stranger who had just murdered a bunch of her friends. It wasn’t enlightenment. It was manipulation. STFU.

19. Favourite/Least Favourite Outfit

Favourite: Live-action Ahsoka’s outfits. Yes, even that poncho that hides her gorgeous deltoids from view. It looks so damn cosy. I love that those outfits give those tiny, tantalising hints of skin whilst still being modest and practical. They’re minimalistic in a way a Fulcrum operative would be, but with some random personal touches that we don’t fully understand yet (Like those beads at her belt. Are they meant to be her old padawan braid? Or Sabine’s padawan braid? Are they just rhythm beads? It’s anyone’s guess at this stage!) But mostly, she just looks comfortable. And since owning both the Adidas wrestling shoes from her white outfit and the Tabi shoes from her dark one, I can attest that they are so damn comfortable whilst also feeling like I could run over any terrain or kick some bad guys’ butts. I’m totally here for it.

Also, Mother Aniseya’s outfit. There’s just so much damn detail to that garb. The fabric. The layers. I love it. Also looks like it would be a cosplayer’s nightmare.

Least favourite: This is probably going to get me cancelled, but I must speak my truth. Leia’s first outfit, the white robe. The "Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi" one. It looks like a bedsheet. There. I said it. I don’t mind the whole idea of a plain white dress that covers her up, I just hate whatever fabric they used. How it hangs. Just screams worn-out bedsheet. And fuck trying to keep that thing clean.

Also, the padawan boob-tube. ‘Soka, babes. Just no. This isn’t Friday night discoteca. This is the military. Put your teenage midriff away and go find yourself something with pockets. You’ll need them.

[the-tmnt-ficfinder]

Ficfinder finds: Built to Kill, Sworn to Protect

Rottmnt Fanfic Summary: Leo always felt a different from his brothers. He was stronger, faster, and more violent than his brothers. Unlike his brothers, he was a natural-born fighter. Thankfully he was good at hiding it. Everything was fine until he did something he'd forever regret and lose the trust of his brothers.

Built to Kill, Sworn to Protect: Appraisal and Ratings

(Don't know what fanfic "Appraisal and Ratings" means? Check out my explanation on my Main Masterpost! Looking for a different fanfic to read? Head on over to my Fanfic List Masterpost!)

Disclaimer: This fanfic is unfinished, and as such, this post will be updated as fanfic updates. This fanfic is written by @arhintess so go show them some love and support!!

The fanfic ratings are not based on quality, favoritism, or how good I think it is, but rather, how intense a subject may be. Like a movie review, or the tags on Ao3, letting the readers know what to expect.

Plot: 💛💛💛🖤🖤

"Plot is three out of five!! The plot for this fic is an interesting one!! The idea of Leo being wildly strong, and having to constantly hold back around his brothers, is an intriguing one!! The plot for this fanfic seems to be following the canon plotline, starting a few years before season 1, then extending into the first episode and so on. Like, a 'what if' version of the classic rottmnt! I'd also have to say, though this is a rottmnt fic, the character traits and personalities are incredibly reminiscent of the 2012 turtles ^^"

Suspense/Mystery: 💛🖤🖤🖤🖤

"Suspense/Mystery is one out of five!! As the plotline follows the canon rottmnt plotline, there isn't a lot of mystery nor suspense. This story is much more of a 'what if' type story.

Angst/Hurt: 💛💛🖤🖤🖤

"Angst/Hurt is two out of five!! While this fic does have a good amount of hurt in it, none of it is wildly overwhelming, nor extremely triggering. It has a good blend of hurt, just enough to make it intriguing!"

Fluff/Comfort: 💛💛🖤🖤🖤

"Fluff/Comfort is two out of five!! This fic has the same amount of comfort that it has of hurt. An even balance of the both!!"

Emotions Conveyed: 💛🖤🖤🖤🖤

"Emotions Conveyed is one out of five!! This fanfic is not on the immersive side, and will not mess with your head horribly. Instead, this fanfic is fun to read, and follow along with!! Less of the type of fanfic you read to feel something intense, but rather the type you read to enjoy a good story plot!!"

Drama/Tension Level: 💛💛💛🖤🖤

"Drama/Tension Level is three out of five!! In this fic, there is a lot of tension, especially between Leo and his brothers. His brothers don't trust him, and Leo doesn't feel welcome around them, making for a very tense atmosphere indeed!!"

Triggers: 💛💛🖤🖤🖤

"Triggers are two out of five!! This fanfic does touch on a few sensitive subjects, like sibling abuse (though it is accidental) and family neglect, along with some injuries. However, nothing so far has been very graphic."

Legibility (Reading): 💛💛💛🖤🖤

"Legibility (Reading) is three out of five!! Quite the enjoyable read!! Each chapter runs slightly on the shorter side, and while it is enjoyable to read, there are a few typos and grammatical issues that may be distracting to some folks. But if you're someone who doesn't mind at all, the plot is highly enjoyable, and very much worth a read!"

Legibility (Audio): 💛💛💛🖤🖤

"Legibility (Audio) is three out of five! Same as for reading, once again, very enjoyable to listen to! Now, also once again, those grammatical errors can be quite distracting in audio book form, but once again, if you're someone who doesn't mind, this fic is a wonderful read!!"

Length: 💛🖤🖤🖤🖤

"Length is one out of five!! Currently Built to Kill, Sworn to Protect has a very small chapter count of under ten chapters, though that will change as the story progresses."

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Built to Kill, Sworn to Protect: Chapter List

(Chapters will be added as I rate and appraise them ^^)

(Yet to be added)

[woodblxssomcrowned]

Your Next gen WS AU has me intrigued! Could you tell us about the role of the samurai in this AU?

Sure I'd love to! (Btw if you want to read a bit more about the samurai lady featured in that image you can check out this post. It's from the old blog and before I changed Kaname's name from Maeko.) Basically I think that they have so much wasted potential in canon considering the way they were initially hyped up, only to end up mostly as cannon fodder for Sasuke. The Samurai as I see them in the WS era and this AU had a far larger and more important role during the era of warring states compared to the village era, and their presence was far more wide-spread. 

They are elite warriors on level with shinobi…but with a far superior social standing. 

Not only were many directly liked to various actual noble clans (‘noble’ shinobi clans were nine times out of ten only considered noble among shinobi, not by the rest of society) so their standing socially was far higher than that of shinobi. 

Before the hidden villages, samurai was the ones that spearheaded the military of various feudal lords, with shinobi being considered hired foot soldiers or special forces. They were seen as morally superior to the shinobi, hence why they earned more respect, even when shinobi could muster quite powerful skills.

Like the samurai we see in the series, they are very much capable of using and channeling chakra for things like altering the shapes and use of their weapons, walking on water and enhancing their physical strength and speed to a point where they can move faster than even skilled shinobi can begin to think of what hand seals to use. They are notably experts at chakra channeling and shape transformation, which can easily allow them to keep up with, and even rival and overwhelm shinobi in combat. 

But their philosophies around it is very different from shinobi, as they see their ways of manipulating the nature of chakra into jutsu as blasphemous. To the samurai, chakra is the essence of one’s soul, and changing its nature will be detrimental to it. And not only that, the shinobi are mercenaries who fight for the highest bidder so their loyalty fluctuates, and are widely known to take on jobs that are deemed ‘dishonorable’ (even though it's often samurai who hire them).

The samurai therefore see shinobi as morally and spiritually beneath them, even though they can't deny their skill and usefulness.  Still, they rarely respected them much, and saw them as expendable. In the continued Warring states AU, the Samurai remains above the shinobi, hell some treat shinobi even worse. When Hashirama and Madara started recruiting shinobi clans for their village, many had to break off contracts with their employers after being promised they would be given financial support and missions with fair pay through the new system. To no ones surprise, the nobility who hired shinobi to fight for their interests were far from pleased with this. So when the village became a failure, the shinobi had to go crawling back to their old employers. Best case they could pick up their old contracts again, perhaps with somewhat lowered pay to make amends. The stronger and more powerful clans that were still sough after like the Senju, Uchiha, Hyuga and so on could get away with this. Worst case they would be hunted down and killed for their gross disrespect and breech of contract. Some smaller clans that had fewer options either fell victim to this, or could be hired for literal suicide missions. After that, the shinobi had to endure even more scorn from the samurai.

Some Samurai brain-dump:

Middle-to upper class citizens; can belong to an established clan of samurai or not; usually found as officers or high-ranking soldiers;  elite warriors;  in D&D terms - Paladins/fighters: armored tanks with great variety in the weaponry they can use and specialize in open combat and strategic warfare; almost always sworn to one lord for life but some will switch loyalty to serve their interests; considers nature transformation of chakra a form of heresy; masters of physical combat; trains in the use and mastery of a multitude of different weapons, combat styles and strategy; the art of forging chakra blades were developed by the Samurai, and chakra blades are seen as a samurai's weapon as they are expensive and difficult to make and is often passed down through families or taken as valued battle trophies;  "Body, Spirit, Sword" (perfect the physical body, nurture and heighten the mind and spirit, master the sword); takes pride in mastering the control, channeling and use of chakra in its raw form without altering its nature; can use chakra for water-walking and enhancing physical ability and their weapons; trademark technique is the ‘Samurai sabre technique’; when hidden villages were created the rigid, open warfare oriented and less versatile nature of samurai made them less desirable in times of relative peace and were replaced by the shinobi; most became non-military officials, high-profile bodyguards or retired; the Land of Snow chose to continue to have Samurai lead their military however.

Compared to the shinobi 

Divided into clans, some very large and some barely large enough to be considered a clan; a 'Ninja' is a practitioner of Ninjutsu which is the manipulation of chakra, altering its shape and nature in order to have it take on various properties and effects; their existence is publicly known but details of a clans inner workings and techniques are guarded carefully; can act as mercenary foot soldiers or take on many different jobs that samurai and normal soldiers refuse to do or lack the skill for including gerilla warfare, espionage, assassinations and more; versatile and experimental in use of chakra and development of ninjutsu; most clans are not wealthy when compared to the social elite of the rest of the world;  versatile skillsets and highly adaptable to different jobs; considered excellent special forces but still hold low status due to their mercenary nature; relies on financial backing from employers; loyalty normally shifts between who can pay but long-term contracts are not terribly uncommon, and some clans have served the same master for generations;  cooperation and alliances between clans occasionally happens; rivalries between clans are often exploited by employers; their integrity and reputation is what secures the welfare of a clan and all members were responsible for upholding that reputation when on a mission and carrying the clan's crest. 

[aerislei]

I would love to see you tackle 79 🤩 (pairing of your choice!)

79. “You’re safe now. I’ve got you.”

Oh man you've got my number Zim lmao. This one is riiiight up my alley way. Written as today's warm up before diving back into Gaia Santa! In true warm up fashion this is not polished in any significant way

--

Zack didn't really know how long he'd been on the run. Didn't fully know what had happened to the world around him in the time lost, either. It must have been months ago, when he'd woken in a lab with a lone scientist. Not in a tank, not being worked on.

Zack had seized the opportunity. Had escaped that place. He'd run. The woman had never raised a hand to try and stop him, and in hindsight some part of him wondered if she had done it on purpose. It didn't matter, she was long behind him.

Zack was being hunted. Whispers through the towns he briefly touched on for supplies were that Shinra had crumbled, that weapons had attacked the planet, that some giant meteor had been summoned down on them. None of it made sense.

None of it mattered, either. Zack was being hunted - Shinra must still be standing, must still be seeking his demise or his control. Zack would not allow them to have either. Zack might've been convinced it was some third party, but he had spotted the tell-tale uniform of the turks. Reno's bright red hair stood out shockingly, and the black suits weren't very good for blending in.

They were hunting him. Zack wasn't going to give them a chance to pin him down, even if he did want to know why they were still hunting him after all this time. Surely they didn't think one SOLDIER no one would even remember anymore could cause that much trouble?

It wasn't safe to try and seek out Aerith, to try and find Cloud. He would only lead danger to them.

Caution, and being chased, drove him away from the scattered towns. And, sure, Zack had been taught to survive off of the land, but that didn't make it easy, especially not with the metabolism of a SOLIDER. But he'd done it before, he'd kept himself and Cloud alive for nine months while he ran from Shinra. He could do it again.

Had to do it again, even, since he wasn't ready to give up yet. But he was so tired. Tired of running, of being chased. Of potentially bringing danger to people wherever he went, for only the kindness of trying to help him.

It wore on him. Less fuel than he needed to survive. Drinkable water was harder to procure. Barely able to sleep for the threat of those following him and of monsters.

Zack had, perhaps, miscalculated his own strength. Or perhaps he had miscalculated these particular monsters. This wasn't one he remembered seeing in the area before, vaguely humanoid with unsettlingly long limbs and feathered but torn wings. They reminded him of the wings that had grown on Genesis and Angeal.

The thought made his heart clench a little.

The beast was also horrifically strong and faster than anything Zack had ever seen, short of a SOLDIER. Zack had been getting by against most things with the gun he'd procured, Shinra make for sure, and he had a decent amount of ammunition. But, even when he'd managed to hit it he hadn't done much more than piss it off.

The blade he'd found would maybe serve, but would require getting in far closer quarters with it than he liked given how vicious it had already proven to be.

A stop-spell from somewhere to the south slammed into the beast. ... His would-be tracker had caught up, it seemed. Thundaga followed it. They were strong, Zack wouldn't have a good time with this fight. The beast first.

Zack leveled the rifle, aiming for a head shot since the beast wouldn't be moving until the spell broke. He got one shot in before the new figure darted into the fray, moving quickly enough that their form blurred a little, making it hard to discern more than that they were dressed in black and wielding a large broad sword of some kind. A sword fighter so maybe a SOLDIER? Zack narrowed his eyes slightly, and took a step back.

Maybe he could slip away while his enemies were distracted with one another. Another step.

The injury he'd incurred from the beast twinged sharply, reminding him of its presence. A double-slash across his chest. Not too deep, not quite hard enough to break bone. It still took his breath away as it twinged. He continued his retreat, though Zack was unwilling to turn his back, unwilling to take his eyes off of his assailant until he was further away.

He wanted to know what was going to come to him.

The fight was over before he'd made it more than a handful of steps. The victor, the swordsman who had interrupted, turned to face him. Zack froze, struggling to parse what he was seeing fully.

He could run, but his options were limited.

The figure moved forward, no longer a blur. Average height and build. Blond hair. A sword that was easily the size of the buster sword in a harness on his back - but it hadn't been. Zack had seen the way he broke it into pieces during the fight.

The blond stopped about three yards away. Zack had leveled the barrel of his rifle at the figure so much on reflex that he didn't realize what he'd done until his finger rested along the guard, prepared to shoot.

The blond stopped, hands open, palms down.

"Zack, it's going to be okay. I just want to help."

Zack's first reflex was to half-growl low in his throat, angry at being lied to. But there was something about the voice, about his face. He was... familiar.

It... couldn't be?

"Please let me help you."

Confusion and uncertainty warred with the desperate desire for this to be real. "Cloud?"

"Yeah, it's me." Cloud took a step forward.

Zack took a step back. "Why are you hunting for me, why are you helping Shinra find me?"

"I'm not." Cloud said, tone almost offended. "I'm looking for you for me. Because I care about you, because I missed you, because I couldn't bear the thought of leaving you on the run alone once I realized you were out here." A breath out. "Shinra's gone. Not looking for you, not looking for anything."

"I saw the turks."

"Yeah 'cause Reno's an idiot. When word got out from the lab that the attempt to, like, release you didn't go as hoped he tried to find you himself. Cissnei read him the riot act for it." A pause. "I'm still pissed they didn't bother to tell me they had you alive. I should have been there."

Zack wasn't sure he believed it fully. Wasn't sure he dared to. But it was Cloud, and Cloud of all people wouldn't hand him back over to Shinra. Logically, Zack knew that. Zack knew what Cloud had been through at their hands, too, after all.

"You're safe now. I've got you." Cloud said, as if sensing the uncertainty. "Let me help you tend to that, and then I'll take you somewhere quiet. Get some food, some rest. Just a little at a time, yeah?"

Zack wasn't sure when he'd lowered the rifle, but Cloud took it as something like acceptance, closing the space between them slowly. A hand on his arm guided Zack down to sit against the base of a tree he'd been about to duck behind when Cloud had caught up with him.

Warm, solid. Real.

Zack couldn't help it, couldn't help the way one of his hands set itself against Cloud's knee. A lifeline, a tether to reality that didn't require trapping one of Cloud's hands while he worked. Up this close, he could see the metal work of the ornament on the pauldron - a wonderfully detailed metal wolf.

Zack swayed a little. "Think I'm gonna..." The world was dimming around the edges. A familiar, if disquieting sensation.

"I'm here, I've got you." Cloud whispered, and as the darkness engulfed Zack he thought it sounded a little like a promise.

[judgeanon]

Plastic Skies - Model 11: F-22 Raptor “Mobius-1″

As soon as I had a couple of finished models under my belt, I knew what I wanted my “Final Boss” to be. There was one plane that I really wanted to not just build, but build right; to do the absolute best job I could with it. It took me a while to get there, and there were a few bumps and stops along the road, but in the end I managed to not only build it, but also close the circle of what had inspired me to start modelling again.

It was time to become an Ace. Or at least try.

So, the F-22 Raptor. I love that thing.

Everything about it is just cool as fuck to me. Its shape, silhouette, hidden weapon bays, everything. It's just square and sharp enough to look futuristic while still having enough curves to still look like a fighter jet and not some jank spaceship.

The other reason why I love the Raptor is Novalogic’s old F-22 RAPTOR flight sim from 1997. At the time, and for a long time, it was the best flight game I’d ever played, looking and feeling lightyears ahead of any other flight game at the time. Even if the Raptor has famously never been in any actual combat or downed any enemy planes (which as far as I’m concerned is the best thing that can happen to any weapon), it’s sure seen a lot of virtual warfare. Especially in another series...

The thing about Ace Combat is that I’d never really played them until a bit under a year ago. As I mentioned when I started this series, I knew they existed and I’d had a few close brushes with them, but I’d never sat down and played any until Ace Combat 7, which promptly blew my mind. Soon, through the power of emulators, I made my way through every single game in the series. And one of the things I noticed was that every Ace Combat is actually two games in one: there’s the game before you unlock the F-22 Raptor and the game after.

In pretty much every Ace Combat, the Raptor is a late-game unlock, and always one of the best. It’s faster, moves better, and just using it feels like dropping the difficulty level down at least one. On top of that, it’s been featured in the covers of a lot of them, including the very first home release:

So playing through the series really reignited my love for the damn thing, to say the least. And when I entered the hobby shop for the first time and spotted that Revell kit up there, I knew I was going to end up building one sooner or later. But I held off for months, building other models, learning every technique I cared ot try and accumulating an arsenal of tools. Along the way, I also ran into something wonderful: an eBay listing for a decal sheet full of emblems from Ace Combat, including everything I could need to build not just any Raptor, but THE Raptor. Mobius-1′s Raptor from Ace Combat 04.

As it turned out, there had been an official AC04 Raptor model kit released some years ago, and while getting my hands on one was out of the question, the instructions were easy to find online. Turns out the model used the exact same mold as the Revell one, and the instructions included a color guide that helped me find the exact shades of gray used on the official thing. You’ve actually seen that gray paint in my F-16 and Fairey Swordfish models. It’s not the easiest paint to work with, but I was happy to have it and the decals. Between them, I had everything I really needed... except the model itself.

Unfortunately, 2023 didn’t have the best of starts for me, especially when it came to money. Long story short, my job started paying me late. Like, very late. Insultingly late. “Three months late” late. Although my family generously loaned me enough cash to make it through, it was a very upsetting era of getting paid, spending a third of it paying last month’s debts, then having to stretch what was left for two months until I got paid again and the cycle started again. It’s why I’m deeply indebted not just to my family, but also to the friend who sent me those old WWII models I posted about last time, since the frustration of having all these tools and nothing to use them on was really getting to me.

Eventually, in early March, I finally got paid and after clearing up a bunch of leftover debts, I said “Fuck it”. Whatever else was going on in my life, I decided I needed something to do other than worrying about money. The price of the kit had gone up since the last time I’d seen it, which was frustrating but also made the decision to buy it even easier. Get it now, before inflation made it any harder to grab. Unlike every other plane I’d built so far, I told nothing about it to my family. A part of me felt terribly guilty about it. Where did I get off, buying toy planes when less than two weeks ago I was asking my brother for grocery money? It was childish, irresponsible, and at the time, utterly necessary. I was increasingly feeling like I would go insane if I waited one more day.

Unfortunately, I’d still end up waiting one more week to really get started, since just as the kit arrived, my mom invited my brother and I to a short vacation trip. I knew I wasn’t going to be able to finish the kit, but by then I was so upset by the whole thing that I nonetheless spent an afternoon focused purely on the tailfins. Stupid as it sounds, I just... really needed it.

The trip was fine. Good times were had, new places were explored, mountains were hiked, and I can’t say I hated it or anything. But the closer we got to the end, the more I remembered those two tailfins drying out alone and the other 114 parts I hadn’t touched yet. It was late at night when I finally got back home, and that night I set everything up to get started first thing in the morning.

Unfortunately, that morning I woke up to a pretty troubling phone call. My dad had some health issues, and ten minutes later I was hailing a cab to go ride an ambulance with him to the hospital. I left home at around 9 AM that day, and only got back at 7:30 PM. He’s safe now and made a full, if lengthy recovery, but the days and weeks of having to be ready to drop everything and rush to the hospital to check on him quickly became grating. As with the trip, I found myself living for someone else, putting everything else I wanted to do on hold for the sake of others.

It didn’t last long. Once I was sure dad was out of danger and comfortable in the hospital, and once the rest of the family had started mobilizing to help, I once again said “Fuck it” and finally dove right into the Raptor, making it my personal anchor, a little thing I was making just for myself and nobody else.

The build started alright, but quickly ran into some trouble. A few of the parts were a hard fit, and the fuselage had gotten bent and warped a little in the box. Plus, I figured painting some of it would be a pain once the whole thing had been built, so I started painting some pieces as I went along. Which was absolutely the right choice, but it meant a fair bit of stop and go.

Something I did decide early on was to go “wheels up” with this one, not doing the landing gears. I figured an Ace Combat plane would be best displayed in flight, all weapons at the ready. I’m glad I made that call, because the build was already giving me enough headaches without the wheels.

Those little edges across the plane’s contour were particularly troublesome, since they required a lot of masking tape to work. I’m not terribly good at masking yet, and if you compare the two sides of the plane, you can tell. Still, it really was nice to see everything finally taking shape.

I also skimped on the armaments a little. The kit came with tons of decals for all the missiles, but I have a lot of trouble with the little stripe ones that usually go on them, and doing it for eight different missiles was daunting to say the least. I knew that alone was going to be a whole day’s worth of work. So I decided to save myself the trouble and just leave them like that.

The camo pattern, by comparison, was surprisingly easy to pull off. Using the paint guide from the official model, a couple of fine brushes and some very good gray paint, I did a much better job of it than the poor F-16.

The decals were a similar story. Funny enough, they actually came from three different sheets: the Raptor’s own, the Ace Combat one I’d bought off eBay, and that white marking in the center, which points to the Raptor’s fuel tank. Real Raptors use a different marking nowadays, but the one from Ace Combat 04 used this older model, which I got from the F-16′s sheet. In fact, that decal sheet was one of the reasons why I’d bought that specific F-16. By then I’d already decided to build Mobius-1, and I knew I’d be able to use that decal to give it that final touch.

Speaking of final touches, the panel lining also went shockingly well. This is one of the things I’ve gotten way better at, no longer having to rely on the sludge technique or anything. It’s still tricky and time consuming, but I can’t deny how much it improves a model, even when done sloppily. I also went and bought a box of transparent orange paint just for the cockpit, which in hindsight is... a little nuts. I have no idea what else I could possibly use that paint for, but I didn’t want this to be just another kit.

I left the weapon bays for last. Truth be told, I was a little terrified of them. Lots of small parts, two of which actually broke during the build and had to be tossed out. The end result is by no means perfect, and one of the side missiles is completely wrong, but by now I’ve learned to accept the small imperfections and let go of the things I can’t really fix (or am too scared to try). All poetry and self-improvement aside, I was squarely in that “let me just finish this” moment.

(It’s a good thing that I got the weapon bays done well too, because without a landing gear and a stand base, the plane currently rests on the bay doors. I should probably do something about that soon...)

Through the whole process, I still felt a few pangs of guilt over building this while dad was in the hospital. He wasn’t at risk or anything and I still made time to go see him, but there was enough shame to it that I didn’t really show the finished plane to any family member until about a week ago. And even then, I didn’t tell them when exactly I built it. As far as they know, I just willed it into existence in a couple days. It’s a terribly selfish thing to think, but after putting myself on hold for the sake of others in so many ways while also dealing with being routinely ignored by my work, having this one thing to make was important to me.

Eventually, the Raptor was finished. There’s a lot in it. Decals from three different sheets, paints and washes from about five different brands, a lot of material in general. There’s also a lot of me in it. Kid me, playing a 90s flight sim on an old Pentium and clumsily putting together cheap kits with cheaper glue, and adult me, falling hopelessly in love with a decades-old game series and comparing paint numbers to make sure I have the right shade of gray for the job. There’s some guilt and shame in it, but also pride and satisfaction. Even if I never built any other plane kits, I at least now had my Raptor. Not just a Raptor, or the Raptor, but my Raptor. With everything that entails.

(Also, you can’t understand how much I adore that the stabilizers are movable)

Things are getting better now. Dad’s way healthier and I’ve managed to more or less stabilize my finances, while also getting close to some new job offers. But for about a week, when everything else was a whirlwind of anxiety, this chunk of painted plastic was as good of an anchor as any. And I’m happy to say it’s not, in fact, the last kit I’ve made.

[highwaytothedangerzone502]

India Lima Yankee - Bonus Chapter

Pairing: Rooster x Female OC

Word Count: 2411

Warnings: Mild pregnancy complications

Summary: Juliette Kazansky discovers Maverick is back in town for a special training detachment, but she's more than a little blindsided when Rooster arrives too. Having not spoken to him for almost ten years after their less than amicable break-up, Juliette can only imagine how the next few weeks are going to play out when she remains head over heels in love with him while he wants nothing to do with Juliette other than to forget her.

Or so she thinks.

Notes: None!

Chapter Songs: All I Want For Christmas Christmas Baby Cold December Night

Chapters: Chp 1 Chp 2 Chp 3 Chp 4 Chp 5 Chp 6 Chp 7 Chp 8 Chp 9 Chp 10 Chp 11 Chp 12 Chp 13 Chp 14 Chp 15 Chp 16 Chp 17 Chp 18 Chp 19 Chp 20 Chp 21 Chp 22 Chp 23 Chp 24 Chp 25Chp 26 Chp 27 Chp 28 Chp 29 Chp 30 Chp 31 Chp 32 Chp 33 Chp 34 Chp 35 Chp 36 Chp 37 Chp 38 Chp 39 Chp 40 Chp 41 Chp 42 Chp 43 Chp 44 Chp 45 Bonus Info Bonus Chapter

Rooster

Bradley Bradshaw discovered his wife curled up under a blanket on the couch with Raptor and Lightning, reading a book in the warm yellow lights of their Christmas tree. She looked miserable. Leaning against the wall, he asked, "What are you doing up?"

Juliette snapped her head up, and in the dim light, he could see her paleness. "I've been nauseous for the past hour, and nothing is helping, not even the anti-nausea medicine the doctor gave me. It's taking ages to kick in," she said sleepily, glancing over at the pill bottle on the coffee table with distaste. "What are you doing up?"

"Bad dream. Why didn't you wake me up? I would've sat up with you." Rooster moved to her end of the couch, intending to sit on the coffee table to be closer to her without moving the dogs, but Juliette sat up and moved over just enough to allow him some space next to her. He pulled her onto his lap and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. 

"You're not getting enough sleep as it is. Still having nightmares?" Juliette inquired, looping her arms around his neck.

"Yeah, I guess getting shot down and traipsing through an enemy base and evading fifth-gen fighters in a fourth-gen fighter can do some damage to your psyche. Nothing I can't handle, though. I'll be fine. I'm more worried about you. Do the docs know why the morning sickness is so bad?"

Juliette shook her head. "No, they're saying all my hormone levels are super high, and that's what's causing all this." Juliette chuckled weakly and added jokingly, "Maybe it's twins."

"Let's hope they take on more after you than me because I was a troubled-ass kid."

"Hey, you went through things no kid should ever go through. If they take on after you, they'll be extremely lucky. And hey, I've seen the pictures of the men in your family. If we have a boy, he's going to be a heartbreaker."

"And if we have a girl, she's going to be beautiful like her mother and all the women before her." Rooster kissed his fiancée, smiling into it. He started to say more, but Juliette's hand flung to cover her mouth, and she bolted off his lap faster than a jet launched off a carrier catapult. Rooster followed her to the bathroom and barely managed to pull her hair back before she hurled into the toilet. 

"Oh, I hate this," Juliette groaned, leaning away and sitting against the cabinets. Rooster grabbed some tissues for her, which she gratefully took to wipe her mouth. "I'm creating life, and this is how Mother Nature decides to thank me?"

"I wish there was something I could do to help," Rooster said sympathetically, hating seeing Juliette in this state. "Are you up to going to your mom's later?"

"Yeah, yeah, I'll be fine. I want to go. Besides, we're giving everyone the big news, and I don't want to miss that. If it gets much worse, I'll go to urgent care or the ER to make sure it's nothing else, okay?"

"I'll be by your side wherever you go. Come on, let's get you back to the couch."

"No, no, brush my teeth first, then bed. It's still a little easier for me to sleep in the bed. I only went to the couch so I wouldn't wake you up."

"You can always wake me up when you're not feeling well, Jules. This is what I'm here for." Rooster stood up and held out his hands to help her up. Juliette gratefully took them. The couple strolled hand-in-hand to their room, intent on getting a little bit of rest before the chaos of Christmas Day.

Things hadn't gone as planned. Juliette passed out the moment she got out of bed later that morning. She barely called out for Rooster before she collapsed, and he narrowly managed to catch her. He rushed her to the hospital, much to her protest when she came to. 

"I'm fine, Rooster. I'm sure it was my blood pressure dropping too low," Juliette insisted, bracing her head against the window.

"My mom thought she was fine for weeks before she went and saw a doctor," Rooster said sharply, a flashback of his mom eerily repeating Juliette's words almost exactly: I'm fine, Bradley. Just my blood pressure dropping too low.

It hadn't been that. It'd been something so much worse, and Rooster hadn't been able to convince his mom to go see a doctor sooner. Then again, even if he had, they would've told her she was fine, that it was stress. He wouldn't let it happen to Juliette or his future child. Besides, medicine had come so far now, surely they wouldn't make the same mistake now with Juliette as they had his mom?

Juliette had reached over and laced her fingers with his free hand, smiling understandingly at him. "India Lima Yankee."

Rooster smiled. "India Lima Yankee."

The trip and stay at the hospital turned out to be short. As Juliette stated earlier, it had simply been her blood pressure dropping too low, but they left with more information than they intended, and a flood of emotions went through them. It also sent them scrambling to buy new presents for Sarah and Maverick.

Upon arrival at the Kazansky house, as the last people to arrive due to the unplanned hospital visit, they had to park on the road, meaning a long trek for them up to the door. Rooster turned to Juliette and asked, "You sure you're up for this? You've had a hell of a day, and I know this year is... particularly hard since-"

"Dad's not here," Juliette finished, sniffing. "Yeah, yeah, I'm okay. I'm going to stay off my feet as much as possible. Besides, we have to give everyone the news. Trust me, there's no better surprise than this for my mom."

"Then let's get going." Rooster hopped out of the Bronco and rushed to the other side to open Juliette's door. As she stepped out, he kept a grip on her hand until she stood steady for long enough that there was no threat of her fainting. Then, and only then, did he let the dogs out of the backseat, who darted to the front door. The couple followed, and on the way, Rooster asked, "Hey, how many insinuations do you think I can make before people start to catch on that you're pregnant?"

Juliette grinned. "Let's find out."

Before they could knock, Sarak Kazansky threw open the door and enthusiastically greeted the two with a hug. In the blink of an eye, the pair found themselves going from one person to the next in the packed household: first Maverick and Penny greeted them, followed by Jack and his family, then Joey, and then the Daggers. Even Hondo, Warlock, and Cyclone came with their spouses. Rooster tried to stay near Juliette as much as possible, and if not near her, then at least have his fiancée in his line of sight, the events of earlier still fresh in his mind.

Two hours in, Rooster entered the kitchen, where Juliette sat at the counter chatting with Hangman and Maverick. He peered into the oven and remarked, "Ooh, got some buns in the oven."

Juliette hid a snicker behind a fake coughing fit, then said, "Mom's making two kinds as well, so it's double the goodness."

"Speaking of doubles, think I'm gonna have one." Rooster shot Juliette a mischievous look. "Mav, you want anything?"

"No, I'm good. I still have my beer." Maverick lifted his bottle. "Jules, you want something?"

"Nah, I was sick all morning and doubt alcohol will help. I'll stick with water."

Maverick's brow creased in concern. "How come you were sick all morning?"

Juliette shrugged. "Could be anything, but I'm fine now."

"Are you sure? You didn't eat anything weird recently?"

"Outside of the Prego's tomato sauce the other day? No. Hey, Rooster, what did you use to call Prego's when you were little?"

Rooster cringed, knowing Hangman wouldn't let him live down the truth for ages. Still, it was yet another hint for everyone at their big announcement later, and he couldn't resist it. "Preggers."

Hangman snorted into his drink. "Classic."

At that moment, Sarah Kazansky walked into the kitchen and pulled out the prime rib and roast chicken. She hollered out that dinner was ready, and everyone swarmed into the kitchen. Rooster sidled up next to Juliette, ensuring he stayed close to her while she stood and walked around in the event she passed out again. He doubted she would right now, but it'd scared him earlier to the point he found himself paranoid about her wellbeing.

The evening passed with good food, good company, and good conversation. Rooster mainly talked with Maverick and Juliette, who sat beside him, and Phoenix, who sat across from him. He and Jules even slipped in a few more pregnancy idioms and insinuations, mainly at the end of the dinner. Juliette leaned back in her seat and groaned, "Uh, I was so hungry, I ate enough for two or three people."

"Got a food baby?" Rooster teased, gingerly patting her stomach.

"I think there might be two."

"Well then, Merry Christmas to me! Best present yet!"

"Oh, speaking of presents, Mom, Mav, I want to give you yours before I forget." Juliette started to get up, but Rooster beat her to it, shooting her a disapproving look at how fast she tried to move. Jules sighed, evidently annoyed that she couldn't do what she usually did. Rooster returned shortly with the two presents and handed them to his parents. Then he sat back down in his chair and tried to hide his anticipation at their reaction. Sarah and Maverick opened theirs, although the former was a little faster. She blanched at the little onesie she pulled out that said: Guess what? August 2021.

"You're pregnant?" Sarah Kazansky squeaked, tears welling in her eyes.

"It's twins?" Maverick added in disbelief, staring at the onesie he pulled out that said: Guess what else? It's twins.

Juliette nodded, biting back a broad smile. "Rooster and I had to scramble to find new onesies because we just found it was twins today."

The shock finally seemed to pass for everyone because the group burst into cheers while hugs were immediately exchanged. It was Hangman that pointed out, "You were dropping hints the entire time, weren't you? The buns in the oven, the eating for two or three, the food baby, the 'Preggers' joke-"

"That was actually a true story," Juliette chirped. "And I give you full permission to never let him live it down."

"Perfect!" Hangman grinned and enveloped her in a tight embrace that lasted longer than any he'd given her before. Then, his voice full of sincerity and excitement, he said, "Congratulations, Juliette. I'm so happy for you two."

She smiled at his use of her first name as he rarely used it, always calling her 'Princess' or 'Jules' or 'Kazansky.' "Thank you, Jake."

Before they could converse any further, Sarah and Maverick reached her, and she found herself unable to catch her breath between hugs and conversation about her pregnancy until she and Rooster arrived back at their house with the dogs. They collapsed onto the couch, not even bothering to turn the lights on, as the Christmas tree provided more than enough illumination. 

"So," Rooster began, "I think it's fair to say everyone was excited."

Juliette nodded, fiddling with her locket. "Yes, I think so. Thought my mom was about to pass out when she found out with how much she paled."

"Pretty sure Maverick wasn't far behind her. How are you feeling?"

"Better. I think all the anti-nausea medicine finally kicked in. Now I'm just anxious."

"About what?"

"Being a mom to twins. I mean, I don't know the first thing about being a mom! I don't know what all milestones there are or what diapers are best to use or-or what is normal during pregnancy and what's not!" Juliette rambled quickly, her mouth moving faster than he'd ever seen. "I'm going to get so freaking fat, and I've never been able to lose weight easily, so losing the baby weight is going to be a bitch. Worst of all, you're probably going to be deployed when they're born and-" Juliette's voice cracked, and she bowed her head to hide the tears Rooster had already seen welling in her eyes.

"Hey, hey, hey, what brought this on?" Rooster asked gently, brushing her tears away with his thumb.

"Seeing pictures of my dad on the wall in all these different countries and ports and knowing that that's going to be you. And I'm so, so proud of you and supportive of you for being in the Navy, but I'm selfish in that I want you here with me."

"Well, then, your wish is granted."

"It's not. You're still having to-"

"I'm going to be stationed at the naval base here. I already talked to Cyclone about it tonight, and he's given his approval. Apparently, he has a few favors of his own he can cash in to make it happen if it doesn't happen when he asks nicely."

Juliette looked up, eyes full of surprise. "Y-you're staying here?"

"Yeah, I am. I'm never leaving you again, Jules, not as long as I can help it." Rooster placed a hand on her barely swollen belly. "I'm going to be here for you every step of the way, every bad morning, every anxious thought, every pound gained, and I'm going to love you through it all too. If you're scared about losing the weight, I can help you get back in shape afterward when you're ready. We have your mom, Mav, and Penny to watch the twins when they're born, so we don't have to worry about babysitters. And if none of those three can do it, we have the Daggers as backup, although we need to make a list of who would be best and who not to call."

Juliette smiled through her tears. "Have I ever said how much I love you?"

"You don't need to. I know." Rooster lifted her left hand and kissed the skin next to her engagement ring. "India Lima Yankee."

Juliette cupped his face and kissed him. Her lips brushed against his as she said, "India Lima Yankee."

****

A/N: Threw this together after @polikszena gave me an ask about what Rooster and Juliette would be like at Christmas time. I made it relatively short and sweet, but I hope you enjoyed! And for the record, the twins came a month early on July 4!

Tags: @lgg5989 @shanimallina87 @polikszena @summ3rlotus @souslesyeuxde @gleasonmalfoy @icemansgirl1999 @supernaturaldawning @thedarkinmansfield @lyannaforpresident @lapilark @getmyprettynameoutofyourmouth @simpofthecentury @shadeops21 @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy @double-j @picklejuicesposts @bradshawsandbridgetons @majdoline @jakexfmc @catsandgeekyandnerd @peachiicherries @multifandomcnova @fandomsstolemylife00 @bookloverhorses @nicangelinee @mak-32

[mcclainwilla]

Writing Fight Scenes, Part 1

As someone who enjoys both writing and martial arts, I feel somewhat qualified to speak on the combination of both. Hopefully, this will help y'all writers to better understand how to structure and execute fight scenes!

I'll start with just the basics of a fight/the writing itself. In later posts, I'll detail the different styles of martial arts, common movements, etc.

TW// light discussion of injury

Do:

- Use short sentences.

They shouldn't necessarily be choppy, per se, but they should be shorter. Here are two excerpts of the same scene in my WIP Medic and Machine (Book 0 of my series). One is from my first draft, one is from my third.

"The two of them circle one another for a few minutes, thinking.  Ximena makes the first move again, throwing a low kick towards Rio’s ankles with her metal leg.  He dodges, but it costs him precious moments that Ximena uses to move in with a metal punch that catches him in the jaw.  His head jerks to the side, but he recovers quickly enough to throw a metal elbow upwards into her chin.  I wince.  Those had to hurt."

"Rio and Ximena circle each other for a few moments, thinking.  Then, Ximena throws a low kick with her metal leg.  Rio dodges the kick, but not the metal fist to his jaw.  But even as his head snaps back, he smashes a metal elbow into her chin.  I wince at the sound of mechanics on flesh."

Notice how the second excerpt is shorter, and yet, I describe the same actions! This is good because fights, for the most part, happen fast. By using shorter sentences, you can recreate that effect.

- Keep in mind the skill level of your fighter(s)

In my personal experience, I find it far easier to write fight scenes where both participants are trained ass-kickers. Someone who has been fighting for a long time will:

Know their range (they can tell, by visual inspection, whether or not they are close enough to land a strike/kick, because they know how long their own limbs are)

Ignore/block out weak hits. After a while, you begin to recognize which hits aren't going to land/aren't going to hurt, and you stop flinching from them/feeling the slight pain

Someone who hasn't been fighting for as long, however, will:

Not know their range (especially in children, they'll either rush straight towards their opponent and get hit, or they'll throw punches/kicks from wayyy too far away)

Flinch dramatically at any and all movements of their opponent. When you've never fought, the idea of getting smacked is scary!

- Keep in mind the body type of your fighter(s)

This concept will almost definitely get a post of its own, it's so important to me! There are three main things to keep in mind:

Short people will have less range, but they're generally faster and more balanced

Stocky people might (but not always!) move slower, but their hits tend to be more powerful

Flexible people = no flaws. (I mean maybe not but I can't think of any cons to being flexible. Greater range of motion is pretty much always a good thing)

Also, people with (proportionally) long limbs are at an advantage. They can strike from farther away, without having to move into their opponent's striking range.

Don't:

- Do not. I repeat, do not. Make your character do a backflip while fighting

I love you but I will hit you with a brick

Not really. But! Backflips/any other kind of tricks are very bad ideas during a fight, for a couple of reasons:

It requires you to take your eyes off of your opponent, which is a generally bad idea

It is a MYTH that flips/other trickery increase striking power. They do not. Your striking power comes from the ground - the more connected to the floor you are, the better (I will elaborate on this in a later post)

When you are in the air, you cannot control where your body goes. If your opponent decides to throw a hit, you Cannot dodge it

- Have your characters talk

Unless they're hot 'n sexy. Not kidding. The reader in me is a slut for some good fight scene banter, but the writer in me knows they're just unrealistic. For one, you're probably breathing too heavily to really talk. For another, you need to focus. And lastly, if your opponent decks you mid-sentence, you'll bite off your tongue or break your jaw. Unideal!

That's all for this one! I think my next couple of posts will be an overview of some different styles of martial arts, their effectiveness (in my individual opinion) and the types of moves they contain.

Feel free to reblog, just credit me and stuff :)

[nobully]

Assist

 comforting action prompts | send [assist] for the receiver to help sender with a level in a video game

‘...Boyfriend Carnival?’ Wang Yi tests the name on his tongue like some flavor of bad romance. He shakes his head.

‘Nope, sorry. Never heard of it. You ever play Punishing: Black Raven?’ When the other looks equally clueless, he takes out his phone and starts showing off. ‘Right, so it’s an action fighter mobage...’

20 minutes and three tutorial battles later, Wang Yi’s peering over Eiden’s shoulder as he tries his hand at the challenge mode fights.

‘When she raises her weapon that’s your indicator to dodge—don’t forget your QTEs, they’re flashing—yeah, okay that was good—oh god, run RUN she’s gonna unleash her ult—ack!”

The screen turns gray as the character on screen falls to his knees and dies, making the battle a failure. Wang Yi exhales. ‘You were pretty close. If you could survive through the last wave, it would’ve been a clear.’

Eiden rubs his nose while half scowling at the screen. “Yeah, I felt that. Can I try again?”

‘Sure, if you want.’

Take 2.

‘Okay, but you should just avoid the jitterbugs after luring them to one spot, because they’re timed to explode—’

Take 3.

‘That was 20 seconds too slow, if you’d killed them faster we’d chip away more at the boss HP...’

Take 4.

‘Yes, it’s 3-ping plus basic attack for this guy, but you want to just button mash for the girl, because her kit’s designed differently—’

Take 5, Take 6, Take 12... 

‘...give me the phone. I want to give it a go.’

To be honest, these battles were short and Eiden was doing remarkably well for a beginner. His hands all but danced over the buttons on-screen—maybe he was skilled with his fingers or something?—but there was just too much happening at once per fight for him to process it all.

Wang Yi expertly takes his phone back, checks his team, and enters the fray himself.

And then he dies less than 5 minutes later.

‘....’

‘...fuck, I want to throttle someone.’ 

“Uh, by that do you mean—”

‘Not you.’ Wang Yi butts in quickly, before throwing his phone aside with a sigh. ‘I should just take a break.’ This game’s way too provoking. He takes a peek at Eiden, who was in the middle of clearing his dailies, and scooted a little closer so he could see the screen. There were flashing lights and sparkly Christmas music surrounding a handsome silver-haired man who barely cracked a smile at the camera.

‘Is that your “boyfriend” or something?’ Wang Yi asks.

“One of them, yeah,” Eiden replied flippantly. “Oh man, but they haven’t uploaded the tutorial for this chapter yet...” His fingers hovered over the two dialogue choices as he frowned over which to choose. Wang Yi took a closer look and squinted at the options.

Ark is showing signs of shyness towards you! Do you...

A) Take his hand. B) Kiss him.

What the hell.

'Where’s the option to just talk?’ Wang Yi scoffs. 

“That’s not how the VN portions work,” Eiden mutters. “I should have enough affection to pick B...but if I fail it’ll set me back a week, while A can still get me some Dokidoki points, hmm...”

Wang Yi had no idea what he was talking about but felt plenty unimpressed. ‘Who kisses someone out of the blue? Just go with A, it’s more normal.’

“That’s not how the love lines work, either.”

Oh. Was this some weird novel logic at play? Wang Yi shrugs. ‘Then just do the opposite of what I said.’

Eiden hesitates. At times like this, he could usually find an answer from his closest in-game friend, but Mary Sue had been bragging about Christmas dates all week and he didn’t want to bother her in the middle of one (or worse still, get it into her head to invite him too). If he waits a while longer, the game forums would probably post a walkthrough, but he was in the event now and didn’t feel like replaying all those cutscenes just to come back to this one choice.

‘That guy moves a lot,’ Wang Yi observes while still staring at Eiden’s phone. ‘So what happens if he kisses you? Does he plaster his face against the screen or something?’

“That’s not how the live 2-D animations—look, why don’t you download it and play for yourself?” Eiden changes tack mid-conversation to shoot Wang Yi a look. “Who knows, you might like it.”

‘No I won’t.’

“How are you so sure?”

‘Because I—’ Don’t like guys? No, he’d already kissed one—uh, two? Besides, if he played as a girl it wouldn’t matter who the boyfriends were courting, right? Anyways, the point is I ‘—already have someone.’

Eiden stops staring at his screen to stare at Wang Yi instead, eyes unusually bright. “What, you mean like a boyfriend?”

‘He’s not my—’ Wang Yi starts, then stops in consternation. ‘I didn’t mean that.’

“So who’s ‘he?’“

‘No one.’

“...you know, you’re kinda bad at lying even without the flowers.”

Wang Yi rankles at that because he was a damned good liar when it counted. ‘I’m not lying. I left him already, so—’

“So he doesn’t count as a boyfriend because you broke up with him?” The sad puppy eyes look Eiden is shooting him could melt a freaking Ice Age.

‘We weren’t even dating!’

“A one-sided crush?” This time, Eiden’s voice softens as well. “Right, that happens...”

‘He was the one crushing on me!’ Wang Yi all but snaps back and regrets it.

Was Eiden cursed or something? Why did he end up blabbing all his thoughts to the guy whenever they talked? Even now, the dude’s just smiling at him good-naturedly as if waiting for him to spill more beans. It makes him want to pinch his face until the grin slides right off, or pull his ear until he winces, or scratch him up a bit so—

Wang Yi digs his nails into his palms and takes a few deep breaths. His self-control was worse since coming here too—probably some mix of stress and desperation eating at his mental state, who knows. He guesses he should be thankful Sao Ling isn’t here to make fun of him on top of everything else.

‘Anyways, what’s past is past,’ Wang Yi says simply and grabs his phone casually from the couch. ‘So, boyfriend game, right?’

Please don’t ask me any more questions.

Eiden is still smiling. “Right.”

2 Hours Later.

“...how did you manage to get every single guy to hate your guts?”

‘Look, it’s kinda my job, okay? Literally, I mean.’

“Uh no offense, but didn’t you fail pretty badly at that with the last guy you met?” Eiden blinks, unconvinced. 

‘Real life doesn’t always match what happens in books.’ Wang Yi looks at him, then looks away. ‘So what’d you end up picking for your dialogue choice?’

“Oh, that.” Eiden glances at his own phone, currently forgotten on the side. “It timed out, so I guess I’ll replay it later.”

‘Weren’t you trying to avoid that, though?’

“Eh, real life got in the way,” Eiden shrugs back with a cheeky gleam in his eyes. “Wanna play a different game?”

Wang Yi stares at him, then scoots away. His danger senses are tingling. ‘Like what.’

Eiden just sits in the spot on the bed that he’s vacated, still wearing that infuriating grin. “Multiple-choice question? A to hold hands and B for a kiss?”

‘Ugh, how about C for “see you later?’

“I’m kidding, I’m kidding!”

‘Besides, aren’t you more of an act now ask questions later kinda guy?’

“Oh yeah?”

‘Yeah. Some parts of you are completely predictable.’ And Wang Yi suddenly grabs Eiden by the collar to pull him close, head leaning in to—

—completely bypass his face as he laughs softly by his ear. Like this.

‘Oops, I missed.’ Wang Yi deadpans a second later.

“No you didn’t.”

‘Eh?’ 

Wang Yi starts to pull away, but Eiden’s already got him, arms snaking up to pin him by the shoulders even as soft lips catch the bob of his Adam’s apple and trace a trail of kisses up his jaw. He stiffens at that—both upstairs and downstairs (to his annoyance).

“We can stop if you don’t want it,” Eiden pauses to mutter in his ear.

Wang Yi’s fingers are still gripping Eiden’s shirt. He relaxes them now, but starts to undo the guy’s buttons instead.

“Is that a yes?”

‘Shut up,’ Wang Yi retorts. ‘I’m just helping you finish what I started.’

Fade to black.

[nowgrow1]

450+ Whatsapp Stylish Bio For Boys and Girls Nowgrow

If you are also looking for a stylish bio for your WhatsApp then you will find here I will give you a bio for both boys and girls without emoji and emoji, as well as stylish and excellent WhatsApp bios that you can copy.

Hello friends, welcome to Nowgrow1.xyz, today we have selected the best bio for boys and girls. Many WhatsApp users like to add the best bio to their WhatsApp profile, so there is an abundance of unique bios, for example, motivational bios for WhatsApp, stylish bios for WhatsApp, and cool WhatsApp bios. You can use them as easily. They have different bios for all kinds of people and the good thing is that they are in English, Urdu, and Hindi languages. You can use these bios to make your account interactive and attractive.

  Table of Contents   

1. Stylish WhatsApp Bios

2. WhatsApp Bio For Boys

3. WhatsApp Bio For Girls

4. Creative WhatsApp Bio Captions & Quotes

5. WhatsApp Bio for Students

6. WhatsApp Top Bios

7. Short WhatsApp Bio Captions & Quotes

8. Meaningful WhatsApp Bio

9. WhatsApp bio With Emoji

10. Whatsapp Bio in Hindi

11.Whatsapp Bio In English

12. Cool WhatsApp Bio

13.Funny Bio For WhatsApp

14.Short Whatsapp Bio

15.Funny WhatsApp Bio

Stylish WhatsApp Bios

Without a goal, you can’t score

I love my job only when I am on vacation

Work hard and be nice to people

Never let go of your dreams

Haters are the best motivators

My silence my attitude

I don’t need to explain myself because I know I’m right

Don’t see my bio, an appointment is needed

If you lose yourself but find yourself, you’ve won.

Don’t waste your time crying for the time that’s squandered.

Avoid me once and you’ll lose me forever.

Being happy is your responsibility – no one’s gonna do it for you.

Be enough for yourself.

We both lost something – you don’t have me, but I lost time.

Do not stress-everything is temporary.

You will not understand and no explanation is sufficient.

My mouth doesn’t talk as much as my mind.

Don’t waste your time crying for the time that’s squandered.

Avoid me once and you’ll lose me forever.

Being happy is your responsibility – no one’s gonna do it for you.

Be enough for yourself.

If you lose yourself but find yourself, you’ve won.

I love late replies because the later the reply comes, the faster I lose feelings for you.

My mouth doesn’t talk as much as my mind.

Also Read -: 👉Facebook Stylish Bio🤯

Also Read -: 👉Instagram Vip Bio🤯

WhatsApp Bio For Boys

Intelligent Boys Are Single.

Boys Will Be Boys.

Gym Addicted

Cute Kameena

Fitt Hai Boss

School Ka Fighter

Single Raho Man

100% Desi

Inbuilt Attitude

Eat, Sleep, Repeat 🔁

I Hate Love

Hak Se Single

Mahakal Ka Fan

Love Me Or Hate Me

Happiest Person

Branded Kamina

Baap Bol Baap

I Love My Queen 👑

Funky Bacha

Black Addict

Nalayak Bacha

Raaj Kumar

Dharmatma

Devil Minded ☠️

Gabru

100% Intelligent

Smoker Boy

Royal Entry On (Dob)

Simple Boy

I Love My Mom and Dad

Nawab Of My World

Badmash Boy

Bad Munda

WhatsApp Bio For Girls 

Chocolate Lover

Music Lover

Papa Ki Pari

Selfie Lover

Attitude Queen

In A Relationship

I Love Mom

Dad’s Princess

Miss Princess

Romantic By Nature

Cute Kameeni

Cake Murder🔪On (Dob)

Babby Doll 🎎

I Love My King 💖

Drama Queen

Branded Kamini

Fitness Lover

I Love My Family

Welcome To My World

Barbie Doll 🪆

Black Lover

Selfieholic

Food Lover

I Hate Relationship

Single By Nature

Papa’s Princess

Bindaas 😈

Nature Lover

Panipuri Ki Diwaani

I Love Badminton 🏸

Creative WhatsApp Bio Captions & Quotes

Ideas are useless unless used

Don’t stop when you are tired. Stop when you are done

Make life fun today, because tomorrow isn’t guaranteed

Dream without fear, and love without limits

Live More, Fear Less

Think and live positive

Be Your Own Brand

Self-confidence is the best outfit

Classy, sassy, and never trashy

Struggling means you’re progressing

There are no shortcuts to any place worth going

I just leveled up

I woke up flawless.

Think and live positive.

Don’t be disheartened if you’re struggling. It means you’re progressing.

Follow your dreams.

Hakuna Matata

For a minute there, I lost myself

If you don’t have a smile, I’ll give you one of mine

I’m walking in the sunshine

I leave a trail that sparkles wherever I go

Note to self: Please relax

When life gets blurry, adjust your focus

Escape the ordinary

I’m so cool, even ice cubes are jealous!

I just leveled up.

Crazy is a trademark of a true pioneer.

Want to be second? Follow me.

Wherever I go, I leave sparkles

With this smile, I can get away with anything

Be the person you’d want to meet.

What you’ve left behind is nothing. Anticipate the future.

I’m not lazy, I’m just chill.

I’m a better version of myself.

I just leveled up.

Get rid of the ordinary.

You’re the reason for my smile.

Just because I am single I am not available.

Time to wake up and turn on Awesome.

Crazy is a trademark of a true pioneer.

Want to be second? Follow me.

Eat eat and eat….but don’t eat my brain.

Also Read -: 👉Facebook Stylish Bio🤯

Also Read -: 👉Instagram Vip Bio🤯

WhatsApp Bio for Students

DND, it’s study time.

My study is my worship.

Pass Hogye… Nacho BC.

Facebook And WhatsApp close and Book opens.

Never be a busy signal on the Prayer line.

To study in a university is to have a sole purpose

Study to show yourself qualified for God’s use.

You can’t study the darkness by flooding it with light.

Study hard, for the well, is deep, and our brains are shallow.

My study strategy is 15 minutes of study and 3 hours break.

If you are given an open-book exam, you will forget your book.

The secret of success is to do the common things uncommonly well.

I never dreamed about success. I worked for it.

When you are a good person You don’t lose people they lose you.

You Never loved me, You were just bored.

I gave the wrong people The right pieces of me.

Never take someone's feelings as a joke, You never know how bad it feels.

Group study is the best way, to ensure that none of your friends have studied either.

Examinations are when on the question, when will you be free? You are looking at the calendar instead of the clock.

Every instructor assumes that you have nothing else to do except study for that instructor’s course.

Never let anybody come so close to your heart that it is painful to forget them.

How to solve maths: 1. Write down the problem. 2. Cry.

80% of the exam is always based on one lecture that you missed and one topic that you didn’t prepare.

You never know how strong you are, until being strong is the only choice you have.

If you want to make your dreams come true, the first thing you have to do is wake up.

Stylish WhatsApp Bios

Without a goal, you can’t score

I love my job only when I am on vacation

Work hard and be nice to people

Never let go of your dreams

Haters are the best motivators

My silence my attitude

I don’t need to explain myself because I know I’m right

Don’t see my bio, an appointment is needed

If you lose yourself but find yourself, you’ve won.

Don’t waste your time crying for the time that’s squandered.

Avoid me once and you’ll lose me forever.

Being happy is your responsibility – no one’s gonna do it for you.

Be enough for yourself.

We both lost something – you don’t have me, but I lost time.

Do not stress-everything is temporary.

You will not understand and no explanation is sufficient.

My mouth doesn’t talk as much as my mind.

Don’t waste your time crying for the time that’s squandered.

Avoid me once and you’ll lose me forever.

Being happy is your responsibility – no one’s gonna do it for you.

Be enough for yourself.

If you lose yourself but find yourself, you’ve won.

I love late replies because the later the reply comes, the faster I lose feelings for you.

My mouth doesn’t talk as much as my mind.

WhatsApp Top Bios

Ice cream is cheaper than therapy

You have to be odd to be number one

When you look at me, what do you see?

Life is full of surprises

Let life surprise you

I am what I am

Just Do It

I don’t need your approval to be me

There’s no place like home

I don’t wait for miracles to happen. I create them

Beautiful things don’t ask for attention

Ever since I was a kid, I was always the winner

Never announce your moves before you make them.

Who am I? I have not found the answer yet

What feels like the end, is often just the beginning

Happiness will always have a reason

The smallest moments give the biggest joys.

If you lose me once that’s it, it’s over

I might be quiet but I am very observant

If you are ok with losing me I am ok with losing you

Also Read -: 👉Facebook Stylish Bio🤯

Also Read -: 👉Instagram Vip Bio🤯

Short WhatsApp Bio Captions & Quotes

Follow your dreams

Keep smiling

Smile, you made it

Under construction

I’m a unicorn

Seize the day

Never Give up

It’s a lovely life

Imperfectly perfect

Dreams are forever

You feel me?

Live more fearless

Live fearlessly

Live like a king

Seize the day

It’s a lovely life

Do everything with love.

Real friends are a rare find.

Happiness inside the job.

Every day brings a second chance.

Meaningful WhatsApp Bio

Start each day with a grateful heart

Forget the person, But not the lesson

Notice everything but be quiet

Never make a permanent decision on temporary feelings

Silence is the most powerful scream

Always hope but never expect

Challenges are what make life interesting

Everybody can see a laughing face, but nobody can see a broken heart

There’s bravery in being soft

Hate is a strong word, think before you use it

Neither happy nor sad but missing something in life.

Temporary people impart permanent lessons.

A smiling face need not necessarily mean a smiling heart.

Start every day with gratefulness.

God might forgive, but I don’t.

Time doesn’t always heal. You heal yourself.

Even if I am hurt, I smile.

Trust that everything happens for a reason.

Challenges make life interesting.

Time is a healer and a killer.

Everyone has a different journey

Temporary people teach you permanent lessons.

Real is rare while fake is everywhere.

WhatsApp bio With Emoji

Everything is fine If you’re mine.❣️

🅱️low 🅰️way the haters.😎

Don’t Copy, Pick Your Own Style 😊

😎My attitude is based on the way you treat me😏

Happiness Is The Key To Everything🥰

The Best Mirror Is An Old Friend 💕

Life Is One Time Offer, Use It Well 🥰

Bio was unavailable! Check later 🧐

Scratch Here ▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒🔥

I’m the iPhone, you the Nokia 😜

Error 404! Bio Unavailable😰

Zindagi Me Kuch💪 Paana Hai? Tarika Badlo 🤨Irade Nahi🚫

Ham Jalte Nahi🚫 Jalate Hai ✔️Kuchh Isi Andaz😎 Me Jindagi Jeete Hain💪

Hame Mat Sikhao 😎Pesh Aane Ka Tarika Kyun Ki Hum 👑King Hai Rules☣️ Bhi Hum Khud Banate Hain✔️

😉Jindagi Me Kasht Hai Fir Bhi Hum Mast Hai🥰

Duniya Kyaa Sochegi 😏 Ye Mai Kabi Nahi Sochta. ✌️

Sun My Pagli 👸 Me Apni Kedni De Duga Par Dil Nahi. 💢

Kai Log Hamari Khusiyo Se Tang He 😈 Bhagvan Kare 🙏🏻 Vo Tang Ho Rahe. 🔥

5️⃣0️⃣% Angel Plus 5️⃣0️⃣% Evil That’s Me😘

👉This Queen Doesn’t Need A King😎

😌Jindagi Jite Hai Hum Shaan💪 Se Tabhi To Dushman🔥Jalte Hai Hamare “Name”🥰 Se

Tera Style Jitna Nawaabi Hai😃Oye Pagle 👉 Usse Jyada To Mere Gaal Gulaabi Hai💋

Agar Meri Style😎 Se Logo Ko Jalan🔥Hoti Hai To👉Usme Mera Koi Kasoor Nahi Hai🥰

😘Raaho Ka Khyal Hai 😌Mujhe Manzil Ka Hisaab Nahi Rakhta❌

Whatsapp Bio in Hindi 

जलो मत बराबरी करो।

जो याद करेगा वही याद रहेगा।

हमेशा खुश रहे और मुस्कुराते रहे।

मैं बेहतर हूँ लेकिन मुझे बेहतरीन बनाना पसंद है।

बुराई करना छोटे लोगों की पहचान है।

सफर मुश्किल है मगर काटेगे अकेले ही।

बात करने को तरसा हु आवाज सुनने को तरसा दूंगा।

हम कभी नही बदलेंगे।

आज नही तो कल तू भी हमारे नाम का दीवाना होगा।

समय समय का खेल है जिसका आ गया वो छा गया।

तू जिसे आप कहता है वो मुझे बाप कहता है।

Whatsapp Bio In English 

Living My Life In My Style.

I Was Born To Shine.

Levelling Up, Every Day.

I’m A Leader, Not A Follower.

Imperfectly Perfect.

Every Innocent Face Has A Wild Side.

Vacation Mode: Activated.

My Style! It’s My Choice.

I’m Just Limited Edition.

I’m Alone For A Reason.

I’m Perfect, You Adjust.

I Love Life & I Love My Crush.

I’m Not a Ruler But I Have Some Rules.

Love Me Or Not, I’ll Still Shine.

Cool WhatsApp Bio 

Papa Ka Sar Dard 😬

I Love Chocolates 😘

Banno Ka Rakshak 😎

Nalayak Hu Mai 😉

Bio Not Available😬

Love Is My Favourite Mistake 💝

Warning It's Romantic Boy 😜

Hum Nahi Sudhrenge 😈

Single, Ready To Mingle 😄

No, Believe In Love 🖕

Feeling Good 😊

Hello 🤗 What Is A Bio?

I Love My Crush ❤️

Single Raho Khush Raho 😜

Sada Single Raho Man ♂️

Funny Bio For WhatsApp 

Bio Unavailable! Check Later 🧐

Born At A Very Young Age.😝

Bheja Garm Hai Kyupya Dur Rahe 🔥

My Bio Is Loading….Plz Wait 🤞

My Gf Kehti Hai Bio Mat Likho Warna Aur Rishte Aajayege 😉

Scratch Here ▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒▒🔥

I’m Still Single For You 😜

Nayak Nahi Nalayak Hu Mai 😜

I’m the iPhone, You The Nokia 😜

Error 404! Bio Unavailable😰

Dosto Sab Moh Maya Hai 👻

Janu Tum Jiyo Hajaro Saal 😘

Bio Mat Dekho Kuch Bhi Nahi He😃

Ek Pyaari Si Rajkumari Ki Khoj Hai 🔎

My Bank Account No. 139003000xxxxx 😉

Me Pyar Ka Pujari Mujhe Love Chahiye 😜

I Am Very Good to you ❤️

Kadar Karlo Hamari Warna Gf Utha Lege Tumhari 😉

Short Whatsapp Bio

Be you, Queen. 

I’m a Queen – that’s all you need to know. 

My talent – my attitude. 

Always misunderstood. 

Dad’s princess, Queen of my world. 

We may not talk that doesn’t mean I don’t care.

I just want us.

Not together, always connected. 

Aching to talk, too scared to text.

SImply happy

Feeling good

Way to live

You got this. 

Yes! I will win!

Try me

I’m a dreamer

Sweeter than honey, spicier than chili. 

Be the winner

Cute but psycho

Easy like Sunday Morning

I want to fly. 

Sky’s the limit

Product of God.

Allergic to people 

Sunny Vibes

Love to live

Unconditional love

Live, doesn’t exist

One day at a time.

Break needed.

Funny WhatsApp Bio

God is so creative – look how I turned out. 

Very lethargic and cannot stop being lazy.

Dear Stress. Time to break up. 

I like being glamorous – it isn’t a crime. 

Don’t be too open-minded; your brain might fall out. 

My wallet resembles an onion – opening it makes tears stream from my eyes. 

The only time my job is bearable is when I’m vacationing

Move over “I Love You”. “Salary Credited” is the most powerful word now. 

Quite a few people I know deserve a high five. In the face. With a fist. 

Common sense is far from a gift. It’s a curse, as you need to deal with people devoid of it.

Dear Problems – time to give me a discount for being a regular customer

Also Read -: 👉Facebook Stylish Bio🤯

Also Read -: 👉Instagram Vip Bio🤯

[grailfinders]

Fate and Phantasms #140: Vlad III (Extra)

Today on Fate and Phantasms we’re making the cooking daddy himself, Vlad III! This build will combine the Brute Fighter and Undead Warlock to create an unstoppable juggernaut who strikes fear into the hearts of his enemies. (Also spears. He strikes spears into the heart of his enemies.)

Check out his build breakdown below the cut, or his character sheet over here!

Next up: Christmas... 2!

Race and Background

Unlike your other self, you’re still a Human of the variant variety, giving you +1 Charisma and +1 Wisdom. Sometimes will is a wisdom save, sometimes its a charisma save, so you’ll be good with both. You also get proficiency with Intimidation because duh, and you get the Piercer feat. This lets you re-roll a die of piercing damage once per turn, and critical hits get an extra die of damage. It also gives you +1 Strength. 

Like a lot of other servants, you’re a Noble. (If you’re sick of this background, yell at history for only focusing on rich people.) This gives you proficiency with History and Persuasion skills.

Ability Scores

“Vlad the Impaler is somewhat terrifying” is a true statement in the sense of “The ocean’s kinda damp.” So make Charisma your highest stat for the highest intimidation bonus. It also takes a surprising amount of force to turn people into shish kebabs, so make sure your Strength is also pretty high. Third on the list of Just Vlad Things is Wisdom for an unbreakable will. It’s sad these couldn’t all be 20s, but we can fix that a little while in. You can’t wage horrific amounts of bloodshed on the populace if you get tired easily, so Constitution comes a bit later. Your Intelligence isn’t great- you’re a noble so it’s not like you’d have a bad education, we just needed other stuff more. Finally, dump Dexterity. Those spikes are cool, but they make it super easy to get caught on stuff.

Class Levels

1. Fighter 1: Unsurprisingly, someone with the name “the Impaler” is pretty good with stabbing people. As a fighter, you get proficiency with Strength and Constitution saves, as well as the Athletics and Survival skills.

Your Defense fighting style gives you +1 AC, and your Second Wind lets you heal yourself as a bonus action once per short rest. The secret to vigilance is knowing when to take a break. 

2. Fighter 2: Thanks to Action Surge, you can now add an extra action to your turn once per short rest. The second secret of vigilance is knowing when to bug out and stab people.

3. Fighter 3: Not gonna lie, despite your upbringing you’re still kind of a brute. The good news is this lets you use Brute Force to shove your spear even further in, dealing 1d4 extra damage with all weapon attacks. This die will grow as you level up.

4. Fighter 4: Use your first Ability Score Improvement to grab the Heavy Armor Master feat, rounding up your strength and reducing all nonmagical physical damage you take by 3. The third secret of vigilance is not getting hurt. Just don’t do it! It’s that easy.

5. Fighter 5: Fifth level fighters get an Extra Attack each attack action, letting you cut through enemies faster than we’re cutting through these levels!

6. Warlock 1: Despite the update to your looks, you’re still getting some of your power from the legend of Dracula, making you an undead warlock. This gives you a Form of Dread that you can transform into for one minute. While transformed you gain temporary HP, once per turn you can force a wisdom save on a creature, frightening it if it fails, and you are immune to being frightened. You can use this a number of times equal to your proficiency bonus per long rest. Look, you are a pretty scary guy.

Speaking of things that recharge on long rests, there’s nothing else. 

But there are your Spells, which you cast with Charisma and have spell slots that recharge on short rests. Eldritch Blast and Sword Burst are decent enough substitutes for weapons, as long as you don’t mind them doing force damage. You can also Cause Fear to freak out people even more, and Protection from Evil and Good will help you if you get in too deep with the bigger fish. Or if your bosses try giving you a hard time.

7. Fighter 6: Use this ASI to bump up your Strength for more hitting things. Hitting things is good.

8. Fighter 7: Seventh level brutes get Brutish Durability, letting you add 1d6 to all your saves. In addition, if adding this to a death save increases it past 20, it counts as a natural 20. It’s not quite vampirism but hey, at least you’re not from Ixalan. 

9. Fighter 8: Another ASI, another feat! Grab the Resilient feat to get proficiency with Wisdom saves, and also add 1 to your wisdom score. Mind control’s no joke. Except to you, because you’re really good at ignoring it.

10. Fighter 9: Making things even more unfair for your saves, this level makes you Indomitable, letting you re-roll a failed save once per long rest.

11. Warlock 2: Bouncing back to warlock for a bit more goodies. Eldritch Invocations customize your vampire experience, with Devil’s Sight giving you darkvision for your dumb human eyes and Agonizing Blast making your eldritch spears a bit more of a match for the real ones.

You can also cast Comprehend Languages, because despite being a medieval warlord you can still go to modern Japan and not be horribly confused.

12. Fighter 10: Tenth level brutes get a larger damage increase to their brute force, which now deals 1d6 damage. Your new Superior Technique also lets you make a Menacing Strike once per short rest, using a d6 as your superiority die. Hit somebody, and then they have to make a wisdom save (dc 8+proficiency+strength modifier) or they’re frightened of you for a round.

Have I mentioned you’re scary yet? You’re scary yet.

13. Fighter 11: Eleventh level fighters get another Extra Attack each action. Now you can kill enemies almost as quickly as describing what extra attack does got old.

14. Fighter 12: Last feat, I promise. Use this ASI to grab the Chef feat, rounding out your wisdom and making you a true cooking daddy. This gives you proficiency with cook’s utensils, and as part of a short rest you can cook for the party. This gives 4 plus your proficiency bonus creatures an additional 1d8 hit points when they use their hit dice to heal. Also over the course of an hour or after a long rest, you can cook your proficiency bonus in treats. Creatures can eat a treat as a bonus action to gain some temporary hp.

15. Fighter 13: Another use of Indomitable per long rest? Why, that’s almost as unique as this level description!

16. Fighter 14: Bump up your Constitution for some more HP. Not dying- it’s what’s for dinner.

17. Fighter 15: Fifteenth level brutes learn how to land Devastating Criticals, dealing your fighter level in extra damage when you score a critical hit on a creature.

You may remember that this is the same thing that mercy monk had, and it’s still just as terrifying here.

18. Fighter 16: Use your last ASI to bump your Charisma up a bit, making you even scarier and also more magical.

19. Fighter 17: Another Action Surge per short rest, and another Indomitable per long rest. I don’t think fighter is a simple class, but I absolutely see why people would think that, seeing as they don’t get any new abilities past 9th level.

20. Fighter 18: Your capstone level makes you a Survivor. You’re not gon’ give up, and you’re not gon’ stop. This also means you gain HP each turn as long as you’re bloodied and not at 0 HP. You gain 5 plus your constitution modifier each turn.

Pros:

You’ve got two of the big three saves (wisdom and charisma) down pat, with each save at least 1d20+1d6+9, and indomitable backing you up. God help your enemies if you’ve got a paladin in the same party, because by that point you’re probably just immune to charms.

On top of that, you deal solid damage, dealing an almost critical hit each turn and even more when you do land a nat 20. Adding your level to your damage was scary on Martha, and it’s still scary here.

You have over 150 hp, an AC of 20, and constant healing. Basically, you can deal tons of damage, and are very hard to kill in the interim.

Cons:

Despite excelling at the other two saves of the big three, we dumped dexterity, and even all your save nonsense can’t fix a -1 modifier. Also, good luck going anywhere unnoticed.

Eldritch Blast is nice and all, but most of your damage is non-magical, meaning actually fighting those demons you’ve got your eye on will be an issue if you’ve got a stingy DM.

Not going to lie, the second the undead get involved, your options for joining parties gets a bit slimmer. Of course there’s nothing stopping you from putting Vlad in your game as an NPC, but it’s something to keep in mind as a player. (Of course this only made the list because picking weaknesses was pretty hard, but it still counts dammit.)

[benjimarii]

If you're up for sharing more Wild West AU content I am absolutely here for it.

I'd love to share! It might be a bit lengthy, though.

For now, here's kinda what I imagine some of the aliens to look like, with thematic names as well. Instead of XLR8 he's Roadrunner, Wildvine is Tumblevine etc. Sorry bout the quality of the photo 😅

As for the world, it's almost post-apocalyptic! The entirety of the earth is in a drought, with the ocean level getting lower each year! Earth has also been an open system planet for a long time at that point as well, making it the black market hub of the milky way, which means a lot of criminal activity is afoot. Most of it is smuggling alien tech or goods that vary in legality.

A lot of earth culture got stuck in the American 1860's, but there's been a lot of modern progressive changes. Basically the wild west culture without the gross stuff, since I want this to be a more light hearted, adventure based au. While it does explore toucher subjects a tad, it's never the main focus and is subtle.

There's also modern tech, making it a wild west sci-fi kinda deal, which is a lot of fun to play with!

As for characters, Ben has been the Omnitrix wielder since he was ten, as usual, and he's training to be the greatest hero in the galaxy. He has his trusty Vulpinancer partner, Rover, by his side, who let's him ride her to get around faster while he's in his human form.

Rook is a sheriff (this aus version of the plumbers) in training. He's very new to earth and it's culture, and is tryin to adapt to the fast paced action that always seems to follow Ben around. He does make his own tech, and tends to keep up the spirit of the west when doing so.

Kevin works on locomotives, which are very high tech in this au. He makes sure things run smoothly when going to and from the big cities of the world, and often takes Ben along with him! He's always up to date on the crime ring, but he's not a snitch, and is usually hesitant to tell Rook about what's going on. He also met Gwen on one of the train rides to Tennyson's ranch.

Gwen is a city girl through and through, but ever since she started to hang around her grandpa's ranch with her reckless cousin, she's been learning a lot of new things about herself. She practices magic, although some of it might be a little darker than we see in the show. Gwen's very book smart, but she doesn't know much about the countryside. That doesn't mean she's not a great fighter, though! She fell for Kevin, but it did take a bit of convincing before she decided to date him.

If you'd like to hear more, I'd love to draw some scenarios and explain more if you have questions!

[suffering-and-happy-about-it]

The Boy Savior (Shattering the Time, Part 2.)

Description: A long time ago, a peaceful state ruled over the Lanes of Zaun. Yet one day, the protector was murdered by his rival and Lanes had gone to shit ever since, leading to the establishment of an independent Firelight base just out of Zaun. But this peace was to come to an end soon with old friends coming back, rising from the dead, and getting killed.

Part Summary: The kids were saved, yet not entirely safe. You made sure they went to talk with the other colony leader, your oldest friend, somewhat of a lover and local prodigy. And as per usual, you stay for more than just a bit of banter.

A/N: So, regarding the relationship between the reader and Ekko. Due to everything that went down, they found themselves in a stalemate - while Ekko, due to his lighthearted nature set around emotion, is willing to risk it all for a piece of heaven, the reader is reluctant to let go due to all the responsibilities they both have. Even though the Fireflies are the representation of now and the alternate (3rd) answer to every question Arcane asks, it's because of the 'now' that they aren't able to let go and stop pinning. They already know they're each other's endgame but struggle to find the time or ways to just let it happen in their current situation.

A/N: If you know about Ekko’s music career - I love you and I will marry you, consider this my official marriage proposal. Ekko is a rapper inside the universe of LoL bands. The guy's part of a group named True Damage, and his irl counterparts are Thutmose and DUCKWRTH. He shares the band with the hottest rapper ever (Akali), a princess (Quiana), the seventh wonder of the world (my queen Senna), and a local moron and drunk who thinks diving level 1 is okay and that the mighty 0/10 power spike exists (Yasuo).

Word count: 8.8K

Masterlist: H E R E | Ekko’s playlist: the boy who shattered time

The overwhelming feeling of safety never got old, and neither did the sight. As soon as the thick metal trapdoor rolled out of the way and gave you a view of the place, your eyes drowned in all the colors and gentle lights. Finally, you could take a breath. You were home. The kids were safe. Now, throughout the warm summer nights, the former silo got quiet and dark. The only sounds disturbing the serenity were crickets hiding in the grass, occasional peals of laughter coming from the distance, and then, there were firelights emitting gentle green light into the night. A hint of pollen still lingered in the air, making it heavy and sweet.

The ancient tree you build your lives around was standing in the middle of the silo, accommodations built all over its massive trunk. The adults were still out, sitting up in the treehouses and staircases built around the stem, as well as around the wooden paths built in the treetops, drinking some beer you haggled out last week. That was a good sign; it could be shortly after midnight. The other houses were tranquil, Maeve could be seen in the distance as she played the flute while sitting on the doorstep, lulling her kids to sleep. The canteen was still open, candlelight emitting from the inside - given it was Saturday, Firelights gathered around to tell stories until the sun dawn started. Days off were filled with relaxing activities, especially the summer ones - it was up to the people what they wanted to be a part of. Your people were fighters and survivors, but during the summer, you all took things a bit more lightly. Surviving summer wasn't as bad as surviving winter, that was for sure. During summer, there were enough people for everyone, clean water to drink and bathe in, and clothes were drying much faster. There were also way more activities to partake in - older kids were allowed to venture out to swim in the nearby river and cave system under supervision and small children could play around for all they wanted... When they didn't have their classes, of course. Ekko's favorite pastime was to freestyle with your local youngsters'; they'd sneak out (under his supervision) into the Lanes, climb on an advantage point, and bounce bars off each other until the night settled down on the Undercity. You've accompanied them multiple times, these trips were fun. Most importantly, you didn't have to care about the fucking heating that broke every other day or the boiler which was, in your opinion, incredibly fucking moody. Until that day, only Ekko knew how to make this beast of a machine work properly.

Summer was fun for everyone.

Your home wasn't much, but it was honest fucking work. You've manually built every house in sight, the people got together to establish at least small agricultural bases in the form of underground greenhouses (to use for growing plants during winter), just so you wouldn't starve. Bringing actual fresh water into the piping was infuriating as shit and Jesus fucking Christ, the months during which you were struggling with electric circuits were still so freshly in engraved your mind that you wanted to throw something against a wall each time you remembered. After you finally made a functional barn (which took you months of work) you and Bean haggled out of a few cows and a bull; the colony had occasional access to fresh milk and meat. That was, usually, a yearly occasion. Now, years after building the basics, your people got into working on various technological advancements, such as special hoverboards, very dangerous weapons, and things that brought up the quality of life. Ekko made sure his inventions did make your life easier.

The first year after Vander's death was most crucial. During those times, you went through poverty and misery - and this time, it wasn't just in your head. There were months when you couldn't properly bathe, drank from questionable water sources, and stole food just so you'd have something to eat. With each slurp of water, all of you and your people risked getting infected or getting your kidney clogged with dirt... Or the Grey. The Grey... That was what everyone in the Undercity called the mist overtaking the Lanes from time to time, clogging everyone's ability to see or even breathe normally. It wasn't just a regular mist, of course - it was filled with all the pollution and chemicals from all the factories set in the deepest parts of Zaun - needless to say the deeper you went, the more dangerous the toxins became. The Grey was slowly killing everything that breathed, essentially. The pollution quietly smothered one's lungs until they... Stopped working. With each breath, you were getting one step closer to death. Piltoverians were pissed after the first Uprising, so they built even more factories in Zaun's underbelly to ensure the rats of Zaun would slowly get exterminated. In case you wouldn't die to the constant stream of violence from the goons, addicts, Enforcers, uprisings, chem-tech augmentations involved in every fight or get 'removed' by Silco's people... The Grey was sure to finish you off.

Here, in the silo, in the colony, you were safe from it. This space, hidden inside the intricate sewer maze was far enough from the toxic waters, the Grey, violence, and even police brutality. Here, there were no political affairs that would bother you - from the safety of your colony, you could fight for the people. For the Laners, for the Zaunites, or whatever the fuck they wanted to call themselves now. The Firelights had their issues with both Piltoverians and Zaunites, so you remained in the imaginary middle, took the fights you knew you'd win, and took an interest in problems you deemed appropriate. That was who you were - living in the now, living the way you wanted to, taking the fights on your own fucking terms. This was the utopia you created from scratch, the utopia you desperately wished Vander would witness. They'd be so fucking proud, you liked to think, all three of them. You and Ekko found your everything in absolute nothingness.

For the first time that night, you were able to take a long breath and just let your shoulders relax as you unzipped your sweatshirt, stretching your neck. Here in the colony, you didn't have to be worried about being out of place, you always belonged. No matter who you were or how much the outside world hurt you, this community was willing to give you a place to stay and a life worth living. You, in general, were loved by your people. And so was he. It was natural to butt your heads every once in a while, either between the two of you or with the other members, but that was why you implemented democratic elections and general meetings. If the Firelights started disagreeing with how you led things, you'd be stripped off your spot years ago. Both you and Ekko were elected as the leaders way back - you were still just teenagers when the first results came through. At first, you struggled with 'being a leader', but all the Firelights trusted you, eased up the process for you, and helped you make all the wildest fantasies and wishes you and Ekko had come true. Without one another, you wouldn't be able to lead shit - together, you were unstoppable. Sure, you were both forced to mature very quickly, but it was a tax worth paying.

As you walked to the staircase, you nodded at the night watch sitting in the vintage point above the trapdoor. Without waiting around, you started climbing the stairs leading into Ekko's accommodation - his lights were still on, so you knew he was still awake.

Talking about Ekko specifically... A part of you was sure that you completed each other. After years of acting in unison, you oftentimes didn't even have to say your thoughts out loud for Ekko to take them into account. You couldn't imagine letting him leave - your accommodations were built into the highest places of the tree, adjoining. There were countless times when either of you barged into the other's room in the middle of the night to ramble about this new idea of yours and even in deafening silence, you understood each other.

To describe him... He was the most positive person you've bumped into. Next to it, Ekko was always in connection to his emotions and was prone to go into overdrive easily - he also snapped out of his amucks quickly, though. Whenever you felt down, the man knew exactly what to do with you - whether it meant talking, arguing it out, bringing you something to eat, or just taking you for a walk around the perimeter, Ekko always had a solution. Especially at times when you didn't know how to help yourself. The Little Man (Ekko's childhood nickname) loved hearing you laugh, never passed an opportunity to cause havoc and mischief (taking into account all the ground rules you've set for all the youngsters, of course), constantly lived in a state of wonder and excitement about what can he create next, marveled about the world around you and still felt jolts of childish excitement whenever he stumbled upon something new and undiscovered. You hadn't met a messier person than Ekko was - the boy often said it's a sign of his genius, but after ten years of hearing the same excuse, you were sure he was just pulling your sock. Not that he'd live in a dump of random things, he just puts things in random places and... Left the stuff lying there. Therefore, you could often hear the ruckus and silent cursing as he tried to find that one specific small fucking screwdriver that he'd put on the table two days ago, and now it wsan't fucking anywhere... Just to find it lying at the base of his bed. Hid accommodation wasn't even a livable space - it was a chaotic and wast place, a room that was never clean enough yet neither too dirty, with a bed hiding somewhere inside the mess. 'A small excuse of a storage room', was how you called it anyway.

What you wouldn't be able to describe in any way, however, was the relationship between the two of you. Well, you knew what you felt, and Ekko often told what he felt... But you were very hesitant to just... Let go and accept it. His attempts at flirting with you were endless. The man tried wooing you each chance he got, no matter if it was in private or in front of someone else. His attempts, to an outsider, could seem in vain - each time he'd tell you a cheesy pick-up line or even cheesier compliment, you'd shut him down with anything you two had on hand - whether it was 'all the work' you had to do, any sort of a book or your own hand, it didn't really matter. Ekko knew that the outsiders couldn't be more incorrect. The man knew precisely what he was looking for, all the effects he had on you - your pupils widening, a hint of a smirk on your lips, the way you'd shake your head gently and chuckle under your breath. If you were alone, he'd also take your hand in his, slowly entwining his fingers with yours - your heart rate going through, fingers trembling so gently Ekko would miss it if he'd blink, a think layer of cold sweat on your palms, the way you'd scoot closer to him or watched the profile of your face whenever you'd assume he wasn't looking. If you were feeling bold enough, you'd even kiss him. Even though he understood where the hesitancy came from, he wished you'd forget your worries and just let him love you. He'd bring you the sky if you asked to, run every errand you wouldn't want to go on, and 'talk' to anyone who'd disagree or insult you. That's why he promised you he'd never give up on you. No matter the circumstance, he'd always be around and love you from a distance, if that was how you wanted to approach things. On the night he swore it, you started crying in his arms (you were both beyond tipsy by that point) and nodded, simply whispering: - "Don't leave me. Ever."

The inner workings of your relationship didn't matter to the other Firelights. None of them knew how messy it was in reality - people just assumed you were an item. Fair and square, an item. Each member with a functioning set of eyes could see how you pinned after each other, no matter how much you tried to hide it or deny it. Each time Ekko would leave the colony to carry out assaults on Silco's operations, you'd become a bit animated and grew more tired, only lighting up the moment he'd walk through the trap door. Whenever you had nightmares, you could be spotted sneaking into his room, leaving it in the morning. Oftentimes, you didn't need to use words, you only communicated via your expressions - Scar had even witnesses as you argued and made up without a single word. There were no doubts, the two of you were a pair if they ever saw one.

Even though you wanted to wrap your head around Ekko and let the fuzzy feeling bubble inside your chest, you had work to do. Right now, you had two idiots to deal with and then had to get back on your watch. You still haven't said a word regarding the stunt they pulled. Since you and Butcher had 'the talk' (whatever it was about), your expression didn't change a bit. However, if you were taking them to Ekko, shit hit the fan. Now, it was time to panic. Out of the two Firelight leaders, you were always the reasonable one. The one who hated punishing people and preferred talking stuff out, the one who was the voice of reason whenever Ekko got too heated, and someone who'd always done everything just to see the kids thrive and be happy. Not that Ekko wouldn't be sharing this goal, it was on top of your shared priorities, but he could get a bit... Hot-tempered and reckless. The temper got the best of him. That's why you were seen as the voice of reason. The kids planned to avoid the talk and punishment altogether, hoped Butcher had talked you down to some sort of a deal... They planned on doing the puppy eyes until you'd sigh and let them go, telling them to find you the following morning. Well, they were fucking wrong.

"What are you two staring at?" - You asked, making Lorette gulp out loud. She'd already been through enough that night, but... You had to pull through, just this one time. Did Vander feel like this? Torn inside as he watched you goggling your big, innocent eyes at him? Jesus, this sucked shit. - "Did you forget how to talk or something? Should I believe you're brave enough to sneak out in the middle of the night but not brave enough to take the consequences of your actions? Off you go, come on." - You continued, realizing you sounded awfully like Vander. Jesus. Almonder tried to make up an excuse, but the longer he talked, the more uninterested you were - it was Lorette, who actually pushed him towards the stairs, leading the way to Ekko's.

No matter how much trouble these two were giving you, they genuinely thought of you as one of the coolest people they ever met. Even though they mostly realized how young you were back when you and Ekko took over the leadership of the Firelights and acknowledged everything you two were doing for them, the duo couldn't help themselves and tried to make a difference. A few bucks could make a difference - buy a few bottles of cough syrup, ensure material for someone's sweater for the winter, the money could even ensure a few more bags of coal. They just wanted to help, that was all. They thought that as someone who dealt with resources management daily, you'd be the one to understand. Your in-depth understanding and overview of the stocks in your storage were nothing short of impressive to the kids. But... Unfortunately... Their hopes fell short. They picked the wrong approach to things, enraging you instead of making you proud. That realization alone was a good enough punishment to begin with.

While you were a genius regarding resource management and behind-the-scenes detailing, Ekko was 'the leader' in the right sense of the word. His speeches would rail up even the dead, and his fiery spirit brought excitement into everything he was doing. He was an excellent fighter and a so-so strategist, so it was Ekko, who led your troops into fights and various dangerous missions. As you've said, you were the rationality and Ekko was the pumping heart. Both of you had enough on your plates, undoubtedly, that's why you often spent nights rambling and whining about all the duties awaiting your attention. Neither of you, however, could take the other's position. Because Ekko wasn't the one overseeing all the 'daily' chores and events going on in the background, his evolvement in a matter like this meant shit was about to get serious.

The closer to his door you were, the louder the music playing through his opened door and windows. The closer you were to the confrontation you threatened the two youngsters with, the less courage you had - you even almost backed out at one point. Was it worth the turmoil? You could deal with them in the morning after you let it go through your head. No. This way exactly the fucking reason why they snuck out again. You couldn't go easy on them now. You needed to pull through. Wait a minute, though. Cimi took over your patrol until you settled this mess, so not being on the designed spot could mean you'd get in trouble... Hohoho, you stopped yourself for a second. You were a fucking leader, there was no punishment for you anytime soon. Just outside the door, you motioned for the duo to stay put so you could debrief Ekko on the situation.

The door was opened, inviting everyone to come in case he'd be needed... And to let the fresh air and sounds of nature come on. What sounds of nature you genuinely didn't know, because as usual, Ekko was blasting his newest track so loud you couldn't even hear your own damn thoughts. Sitting at his desk, he indulged deeply in his work, dismantling an old watch to pieces and laying all the small parts in front of him. There must've been enough on his mind already - Day of Progress was behind the corner and a bird chirped that Sevika (Silco's right-hand woman) was delivering a bunch of Shimmer to Piltover two days from now. For what purpose you didn't know, but Firelights saw and elected only one solution at the last general meeting - blowing every barrel to pieces. Ekko never could've fallen asleep before a big stunt like this. On top of this incoming event, he was hot on his feet holding a different sort of watch, letting his door open in case anything happened. Since you had a night watch scheduled and Ekko hated bothering you with stuff during those, he was most likely prepared to deal with any and all problems for the night.

Hugging the doorframe, you allowed yourself a few seconds to watch him undoing the screws. You liked everything about this view; his dread-hawk swaying gently each time he moved his head, the silver pieces braided clinking each time they collided. You liked watching the muscles on his shoulders release and tighten as he fidgeted in his chair. One thing you loved dearly was the way he hummed whatever song was playing. You wanted to stay put until he'd notice you, asking the most cliche question you'd ever hear... But there was no time for that. Since you got to work soon, you forcibly broke the little idyll, smoothed his shoulder gently, and lowered the volume on his radio.

"No wonder I have to yell at you whenever we talk, geez." - You muttered, leaning your ass into his desk, staying out of his sight a little longer. - "Soon enough, I'll have to learn sign language." The smile, you thought to yourself, the damn smile. Each time you'd surprise him like that (for example, now you were supposed to be on a watch and instead, you were in his fucking room), a serotonin-filled, blissful expression formed on his face. Trying to act cocky and come up with a well-suited pick-up line, Ekko leaned his elbow into the back of his chair and leaned closer to you.

"Hold your horses, cowboy, I'm not here to deal with personal stuff. We got a situation on our hands." - You tried to stop him, but Ekko clicked his tongue and rolled his eyes. "It's just one pick-up line. You secretly love 'em, girl, come on." - The man whispered, having you sigh in defeat. - "Nature is sure as hell better at inventing wonder than me, because damn, you're living proof." - With that, you had to chuckle; you loved his various attempts at making you flirt with him and sometimes, when your schedule wasn't as tight, you reciprocated his advances. "Wow, that's a new one. Like the sound of that." - You admitted, pushing a strand of hair behind your ear as your cheek got flushed. The boy chuckled breathlessly, seemingly happy with how his advances affected you... For the millionth consecutive time.

"Mhm, heard how Damien told that to Cini earlier today and had to try out. Anyway, yeah, business, beautiful. What can I help you with? Kept the door open like you asked me to, thought they'd come to me in case a problem would arise. You know I don't like it when someone bothers you on your watch." - Ekko explained. "Well, no one came to me with a problem... I discovered one." "Anything I missed?" "Lorette and Almonder snuck out to do business with Butcher. Remember that demon living at the outer edge of the Lanes? That Butcher. Thankfully, they didn't strike any deal with him, he swore they hadn't signed any contract. Asked me if we'd be willing the kids help with his cargo, actually." "Fuck." - This time, Ekko finally put the screwdriver on the table beside him, massaging the root of his nose. The 'fuck' wasn't surprised, however; far from it, actually. With a long exhale, Ekko nodded to himself and got ready for whatever you had in store for him.

"Wait a damn minute... You knew about it." - You wondered, furrowing. So far, you weren't angry, which was good news. You were just confused. - "Did they ask your permission? Was my freak-out unwarranted and redundant? Did I make a fool of myself tonight?" "No, no, no, you got it wrong. They didn't ask me or talk to me about this. I mean..." - Ekko started, catching your forearm as soon as you straightened up. Now, you were getting angry. - "I knew it was going on, Y/N, I won't deny that. But I assumed you had it under control. You've never brought it up and you have enough to stress about as is, so I didn't ask. What do you need from me, did the two do something I need to take care of?" - As your mouth swung open, Ekko licked his lips in anticipation. He had it coming, didn't he?

"Are we acting causal about this? 'What do you need from me'? Are you not even a bit mad at them?" - Oh, great, there you fucking were again. Your tone raised slightly as you mocked his words, throwing your palms in the air in a bewildered gesture. "Of course, I was concerned if that's what you're asking. But as I said - I thought you had it under control." "That I had it under control... Aha." - The implication of him being careless towards the kids in your community was what did for Ekko - the burning flame was set ablaze in his chest as he took a deep breath, bending his head back to quieten the urge to raise his voice. The two of you agreed to guidelines regarding your arguments, laying down a set of basic rules you both did your best to follow - no pointless yelling, throwing stuff around, saying names, or bringing up personal shit (only when you argued about personal shit - in those arguments, however, you agreed on leaving all the colony-related issues aside). The yelling rule was the only part of your agreement you consistently violated.

"Don't give me this tone, Y/N." - Ekko was now standing on his feet as well, looking you in the face with his eyes narrowed. - "Out of all the people around here, I'd think you'd be the one to realize how much shit we needed to prepare for the Progress Day. You know that these days mean the most opportunities to fuck up Silco's businesses. The amount of shit I had to check in the last two days wore me the fuck out - I ensured our tech was in good shape, and that we had everything we'll need, all the food, all the clothes, all the small fucking utensils among other things. Do I look like I had the time to..." "You're so self-absorbed it's ridiculous at times." "And you're saying mean shit just because you're angry." "You didn't have the time to do fucking what?" - You turned to face him, your nostrils widening as you took a deep breath. - "What? To take a moment to step in and talk to them? To help me around with getting them in a lane? Maybe, just maybe, talk about how dangerous their endeavors were? How does that sound to you, you dick? Do I look like Vander you? Because I can't singlehandedly raise everyone around here!"

"We aren't taking this further unless you take that back." - Ekko pointed his finger at you, the vein on his temple becoming prominent. Nodding, you agreed with his point. The pact was established after a very messy and long fight - you've been at it for hours, and when it ended, the fallout could be felt for weeks. It was then that you promised never to spit insults at one another again. It was really hurtful, all the names you came up with just to spite each other. To be fair, it was the harshest winter you've had to face that year and you were both growing desperate, bottling all the anger inside until... It exploded. Now, even during the most heated arguments, you reminded yourselves of the pact and did your best to howl at each other respectfully. "Fine... You're right. Got a bit too heated there." "Almonder, Lorette!" - Ekko called out, pacing around the room, fuming. The two kids immediately stepped inside, pale as the moon; they had to hear you going at it. Well, everyone in the radius surely did. Woah, you thought to yourself, did you look like this back when you were kids and Vander gave you a lecture? Palms trembling as the kids held onto one another, their bright eyes goggling at you, lips slightly parted. Jesus, even though you were mad, you had to bite on your lip not to laugh a bit. - "Start. Talking." - Ekko stated silently, looking at the kid emotionlessly. He was just staring. His demeanor was giving you goosebumps.

"I know you're both mad, like, mad-mad..." - Almonder started, making your heads fly up so you could look at him, narrowing your eyes. You and Ekko looked like disappointed parents, you had to admit. Lorette, whose mental had taken enough toil already, stepped forward to explain the situation because Almonder cracked under pressure easily. "You have every right to be mad. Y/N warned us before and we get it. But, the guy isn't as bad as he seems and we're sneaky enough to make it to his house undetected, there's nothing to worry about, it's safe..." "Yeah, okay, just scratch that bullshit and start that over." - Ekko huffed, his eyes darting between her and Almonder, who was almost fainting behind her. "We didn't do it without thinking it through - Butcher sealed a deal with some Piltoverian steelworks and asked if we'd like to help carry the merchandise inside his house - the ballroom acts as this warehouse of sorts. He promised pretty good money for it." "Is money more important than your life?" - You asked, standing next to Ekko. Both of you were slowly piping down. As they explained, their reasoning wasn't half bad, you could understand it. You were the same. "We... We didn't want to do it for ourselves. We aren't interested in making money, Ekko. We hoped we'd do the work, get paid, and give it to you..." - Lorette explained on the verge of tears. Almonder stepped up next to her, continuing where Lorette left off. - "We heard Scar talking about some medicine rations running low and the need to buy more before winter comes... That's why we snuck out."

As you stared at the two kids, you forgot how to talk. That's why they snuck out, freaking you to death? Because they wanted to help? You had no idea if you were supposed to be frustrated or touched. Ekko, however, didn't waste much time before getting his opinions out there. "All Y/N has asked of you was to ask or tell someone, anyone, if I'm assuming correctly. Does making us aware of where you at sound complicated?" - Ekko asked rhetorically; before Lorette could answer, he was already back to full ramble mode. - "People in the Lanes don't know who you are, not the way they know me or Y/N. They've never seen you. For them, you're intruders, outsiders, someone who doesn't belong. One funny look at the wrong person, someone who takes it personally, and your ass is fucking grass." "We know..." "No. No, you fucking don't. You can't know because you were two years old when shit hit the fan. You may have an idea of the Lanes, but don't know a thing. Believe it or not, but I've been your age and thought I discovered how the world works, but guess what - I was fucking wrong." - The man cut Lorette off immediately, making her lower her head. - "I admire your actions, truly. You're acting heroic and I know you've meant well for the community, but... This is a huge and unnecessary risk for everyone. We worked hard to get where we at. We lived in the streets, we survived poverty, hunger, and thirst just so the kids we'll watch grow up could live in peace... You repay us with this. Let's play pretend for a bit, okay? What if someone noticed you, hm? What then? Dosn't matter if it would be Pilties, Silco's people, or some low-class goons. Everyone out there is an equal threat to us. Not that I wouldn't have faith in you two, but it would be hard to keep your mouth shut with your life on the lane. They'd do horrible things to you just to figure out where you came from, who you work for, what's your goal, and where's the rest of us. Let's pretend for a bit longer - if you'd even get out of this situation alive and managed to drag yourselves back home, your problem would become our problem. Eventually, someone would come to hunt us down - some greedy morons, the Enforcers, or, in the worst case, Silco's goons. We'd have to relocate, burn this to the ground, and leave everything behind. Look around you. Would you like to see your home fall in flames? Because I've seen it already. It crushes your soul. We have newborns whose mothers would be forced to drink the sewage water and breathe in the Grey. We have kids and orphans we need to take care of. If we wouldn't stave to death, we'd be sent to Stillwater or killed by others. As much as we're strong, we could also fall if the ground beneath our feet shakes even so slightly. Do you like the thought of that? Do you see what's at stake here? Do you realize why Y/N always dragged you back home and made sure no one bothered you? " - This was, in your opinion, just enough. Taking in a breath, you caught his forearm in your palm, patted his shoulder, and nodded. Ekko got the message through, you assured him, a bit too well when taking Lorette's horrified expression into account. Just the punishment you asked for.

Trying to steady his breathing, Ekko's palm ghosted over yours as he cleared his throat. "You got it?" - The man asked silently, his voice and expression growing warmer. Both kids nodded in unison and watched Ekko approach them, patting their shoulders. - "You're good kids and even better people, but you need to follow the rules to ensure we're all safe. Together, we are strong; alone, we're an easy target. I'll think about letting you work for Butcher if that's what he's interested in... But it would be under adult supervision and you'd come to tell us anytime you'd be leaving or coming back. We on the same wave?" - Again, the kids nodded in unison. "Come back in the morning. You'll get an additional punishment so you'll really have time to think about what happened. I'll be overseeing it myself." - Ekko smiled, sending you an amused look over his shoulder. - "Run off, you two. Good night."

After the two troublemakers left, you decided to sit down on his messy bed for a bit - he had a book on forcefields opened on his nightstand, a half-empty glass of water right next to it. "Sorry for implying you don't care." - You mumbled, looking up at him as he watched you with an endearing expression. "Sorry for not stepping in sooner. Would've if you hinted at not being cool with their shenanigans." - The man sat back onto his chair, scooting over to you. When he was done with taking in each inch of your face it seemed, he picked up your palm and started playing with your fingers. "It's kinda funny." - Ekko muttered, kissing your knuckles tenderly. "What is?" "... Remembering we were the same. Trying to change the world even though we realistically couldn't do shit against Pilties. Getting ourselves into trouble, getting our asses kicked by Vander, and still thinking we were right, not him. Poor guy had it hard with a bunch of nuisances like us." "We weren't smart kids. In fact, most of us had temper issues and a savior complex." "Not that we'd get much smarter, huh?" - Ekko murmured, placing his fingertips on yours to entangle your fingers together. - "And the savior complex is still here, also. I miss, though." "Hm?" - You wondered, smiling at feeling his warmth indulging you.

"I miss being stupid and not knowing better, thinking the whole world can kiss my damn ass. I miss times when adults solved all our problems by drinking it out in Vander's pub." "Ekko..." - You whispered, licking your lips. Before you could stop yourself a cheesy, stupid joke left your mouth. - "You are still really stupid. You're just lucky I like that in a person." "That's a low blow, girl." - He snickered, leaning back into his chair. There was a bright smile on his lips now, his expression and demeanor relaxed. - "Come 'ere." - The man whispered, tugging on your palm to make you lean into him. You knew what was about to go down - the way his fingers drew circles into your skin, creeping out closer and closer to your elbow, the spark in his eyes... Therefore, you deemed it appropriate to get back on your watch.

"I should go now, Ekko. You seem... Busy and I'm sure you'd appreciate a moment of silence." "Not gonna work on me tonight, girl. Let me apologize properly." - And with that, the boy planted a peck into your palm, his eyes not leaving yours the entire time. Your face got flushed... Just like every time he'd been doing this. In intimate moments like these, you've often found yourself wondering.

In a novel you once read, the term apologize properly implied something entirely different. You've caught yourself pondering about it many times, actually, your imagination is very vivid at helping you imagine what could've been. It didn't leave out a single detail - the muscles on his shoulders moving in unison as he'd get on his knees; he'd have his signature cocky shit-eating grin on his lips, his eyes glued to your expression. Each touch would send a wave of heat through your body, weakening your knees. It would be so hard to breathe, watching the hottest man you've met preparing to eat you out like a dish. Pressing your knees together, you pulled your head out of the gutter. Ekko smirked, knowing exactly what you were thinking about; after taking a whiff of your scent, the man kissed your wrist. - "I'm sorry for acting like an ignorant dick." - Hearing him reiterating what you've said earlier made you chuckle. Dragging his nose on your skin, he pressed his lips into the sweet spot just under your elbow socket. - "Can't say how sorry I am for not stepping in sooner." - Pulling the chair closer, his lips traveled to your upper arm, meeting the hem of your short sleeve. - "I'm so sorry you're overworked with all the people's trouble and thank you for acknowledging I can be a moron when it comes to these issues." Honestly, you expected him to stop with the last kiss, but tonight, Ekko presumably felt a bit bolder. He usually got like that when a big event came up as if he wasn't to come back. Taking hold of his shoulder, you didn't bother covering how your breath hitched when he burrowed his face into the crook of your neck, kissing your collarbone through the fabric, muttering another apology before traveling to your neck.

Imagine being with Ekko was so easy, a given, something bound to happen... In the future. Being with him would be easy, just like breathing. Waking up in one bed, sharing breakfast with him, kisses, and candid touches before leaving to fill your duties. You could imagine coming back home, arguing about what you're gonna have for dinner - after you'd be done, he'd kiss you and tell you he missed you and wants to hear about your day. You'd fall asleep together.

Unfortunately, the past still riddled you. Whatever you had going on you called 'a product of unfortunate circumstances'. If things hadn't turned out like this, if Vander hadn't been murdered, Ekko would have been bound to become a technological prodigy. His creativity would ensure him a prestigious scholarship at the Academy. The two of you would see each other less and less until you'd cut ties altogether. You'd remain living in Lanes until you'd choke on the Grey. One day, you simply wouldn't have woken up. You remember what Ekko felt for Powder when you were kids - seeing this side of him, knowing what lust and hunger did to him, the clues were plastered all over the place. You couldn't shake his love for her out of your head. What if you were just a bandaid? What if his feelings for you weren't even real? What if you were the only choice he was left with? In that universe, you wouldn't even get the chance to get this close. You remembered every single detail of the two of them together - the way he looked at her and laughed at her cheesy jokes, how he was interested in every single itsy bomb she made, how cool Ekko always said Powder was, the way he made certain she was safe and right behind him. You and Ekko were close too, rest assured, but it wasn't like that. You took care of one another as close friends. You've even heard Benzo and Vander joking about it as you served your two-month lasting duty in Last Drop's taproom, you heard it all 'My ward and your daughter... Who would've thought?' Benzo asked Vander, both laughing as they smoked.

You remembered the night Ekko kissed you for the first time, that one lonely night in the middle of a summer five years ago. You've spent years beating around the bush, never overstepping the boundaries of a friendship, never taking the final step over the edge. You've thought about it a few times before he kissed you, of course; you wondered about the taste of his lips, the warmth of his body, and the spark in his voice. The whole time, you hadn't said a word, just continued pretending you weren't hopelessly attracted to your best friend of almost twenty years. That's when your other friends started pointing out all the little things, asking if you 'finally started officially dating'. This was the first time you've ever thought about the possibility of the feelings being reciprocated. At first, it was hard to believe - Cimi tried to convince you there was something about how Ekko acted around you; it had switched quite some time ago, but since you weren't backing out, Ekko was getting more and more courageous. A huge celebration was happening at that time - Firelight managed to shut down one of Silco's biggest operations to date, so of course you've bought enormous supplies of alcohol. While you stuck around the main celebration in the cafeteria, Ekko excused himself to work on his stopwatch. You knew something was off but didn't pry; Akali (a mutual friend) was drunkardly dancing on the tabletops, singing traditional Ionian songs, you wouldn't miss for the world. If something was bugging Ekko off, it was better to let him sort out his thoughts and let him come when he felt the time was right. What you didn't expect was him appearing next to you out of the blue, his ego and courage boosted with liquid courage.

The boy just took your hand, gave your beer to Cimi, and dragged you along. As you asked what was going on, Ekko didn't waste a second answering, hiding behind the corner with you in his arms. He'd never been this close - his hands pressed on the sides of your head, his knee pressed between your knees, his fingers ghosting over your cheeks. "I need to tell you something." - He whispered, staring at your lips. His fingers started playing with your hair as he leaned in, the smell of alcohol giving away how much he'd drank. "Yeah?" - You asked, prompting him to continue. "I... Had a crush. Until she started talking to the gun." - Ekko admitted silently, looking away for a bit. His words stabbed right through your heart; he was talking about Powder. Right when you thought he was about to kiss you. The situation suddenly didn't feel as comfortable. Until he started talking again. - "Look, the thing is... I'm so in love with you that it hurts. Every way I slice it, I was a dick and I should've let you know sooner. I realized it a while back, actually, but never knew how to let you know - the longer you've been around, the more I fell under your spell. Knew I was fucked on the morning when I found you playing with the kids, wearing that damn flower crown that you put on my head later. I should've kissed you right then and there." "That's like... Forever ago." "I was worried you're not feeling it. Even now, I'm not sure if I'm just bothering..." "I do, Ekko. I've been feeling it for a long time." - You whispered, nodding, sliding your palm under his tank top. The boy hissed in reaction to the contact, shivering as you gently dug your nails into the skin on his back. - "I was worried you're not feeling it." "Fuck, we're so stupid." - The boy whispered, smiling widely, fixing his grasp on your jaw. If you'd be looking closely, you'd notice the tears of happiness in his eyes. God, he was the happiest man on the planet. "We're fucking idiots." - Giggling yourself, you finally closed the gap and kissed him.

No matter how happy that memory was, Ekko admitted to crushing on Powder. That was your reality check. Each time you wanted to jump in and let Ekko love you, this realization stopped you. You've never had the balls to outright ask him whether you're the consolation prize or not. You desperately tried to forget it, but it was always with you. Just when he was about to steal a kiss from you, you turned your head away from him. This rejection always froze him for a bit, letting him take a breath with a hint of sorrow crossing his face. There was nothing on Runeterra he'd rather do than kiss you. - "Was that apology enough? I can go on, I'm sure you can make up at least fifty other reasons I should be on my knees now." - Ekko asked, not giving up entirely. His voice dropped as he caressed your cheek with his nose, smirking as he felt your body leaning into his touch. "I'll have to get going soon." - You mumbled, leaning away. You kissed his temple hastily so he'd know you appreciated the intimacy, but then you leaned away definitely. Ekko nodded, knowing better than to push you into things you weren't interested in. - "Wanna tell me about the track? I'm pretty sure I haven't heard this one yet."

"Oh, yeah, Akali popped up for a bit." - Ekko smiled, giving you a piece of paper - a note from her, presumably. Ah, Akali. You met a few years back - the Ionian woman accidentally stumbled into the colony, looking for someone named 'Jhin'. They weren't friends - she had a contract on his head. As you watched each other cluelessly (according to the map of Zaun's sewage system, this place was supposed to be empty) and before you stopped yourself, the silliest question left your mouth. - "Wanna have a lunch with me?" She ended up staying in the colony for a week. Once she lowered he suspicions and started talking with you, you clicked. She was the funniest person you've met, you'd swear and her opinions were refreshing. She'd traveled a big part of Runeterra, so she'd tons of cool stories to share. This was part of the reason behind kids loving her. Their favorite pastime with Akali was playing hide and seek and she was fucking incredible at it. Akali was brought up as an assassin on one of Ionian's oldest orders, so hide-and-seek was a piece of cake for her. Kids looked for her for hours and finding her was always incredibly difficult. The woman was also a self-proclaimed rap protegee, so she and Ekko hit it off immediately. To this day, the duo would freestyle anytime she'd drop by. The duo could make you wholeheartedly laugh with just how they made fun of each other, acting like children in adult bodies. Apparently, she didn't even hang around to say hi... Yikes.

"You should've seen her, haven't seen her this rowdy and happy like... Ever." "I mean, I get it. This track slaps. I could die if I ever created something like this... Of happiness. Don't give me this look, I was joking. " - You agreed, laughing as you leaned over his shoulder. Ekko was now back to working on taking the watch apart, the screwdriver spinning between his fingers. "Imaging you wouldn't be around to pester me isn't fun." - The man mumbled under his breath, pecking your chees before you could lean away from him. Nudging his shoulder, you weren't able to hide the smile breaking on your face. - "The track isn't hers, strictly speaking. It's a mix by this Ionian Ronin dude or whatever she said. But that's not the news - she's dating some Piltoverian chicks and said the girl's a huge pop star. Her name's Seraphine, I think, we should check it out." "Sneaking to a concert?" - You joked, raising your eyebrows. "Thought you'd enjoy that. Akali promised she'd sneak to the backstage." "First on the order is Sevika's delivery. We can talk about other things once that whole fuzz fizzles out." "Ma'am, yes ma'am." - The boy mumbled, chuckling to himself. - "Had a weird dream I wanted to tell you all about."

"What dream?" "I... Dreamt I could travel in time, back and forth, undoing all the wrong things that happened. It was so cool." - The boy whispered, smiling at himself. - "And when I checked my notes this morning... I feel like I can actually do it. There's something wrong with my calculations but I can't find what. It could be anything. Before you start, no, it's not because the dream was so vivid." "I wasn't about to say that." - You reiterated, knowing you were about to say exactly that. "Seen it in your eyes." "Touché." "Does it sound insane? Traveling the time?" - Ekko asked, watching as you picked up one of the pocket watches Ekko proudly displayed on his shelf. This guy was obsessed with pocket watches ever since he was a kid - you've spent countless nights on the junkyard and each time he'd find a cool piece, he'd run to you just so he could show it to you. Each time you entered his room when he wasn't listening to music, it took a bit to get used to the out-of-sync ticking. It used to drive you insane.

"Wouldn't you look at that... Ekko - the boy who shattered time. It has its charm, doesn't it?" - As you smiled at him, a spark twinkled in Ekko's eyes. His theory was probably nothing more but a mad dream, yeah, but who were you to stop him? As long as he had his conviction and passion, you'd trust Ekko could make it. He could figure it out. - "I really gotta go now, though." "Oh, one last thing before you go!" "Yeah? What is it?" - You asked, stopping at the door. "We're leaving at sunset tomorrow. I wondered if you'd be down for some sparring with me before we set out. This shit makes me nervous, all the scenarios of what can fuck up are driving me insane - this would help a lot."

As you thought about Ekko's request, a furrow appeared on your face. He was well aware about how much you hated traveling to the Lanes and yet, he got desperate enough to ask you. You couldn't wrangle inside the colony, no way; you didn't want people to see what you could do, so you took trips into the old warehouses where you spent time playing as kids. His physical strength was impressive. Even though Ekko wasn't the tallest in the colony, he was muscly and strong. The guy spent a considerable amount of time with physical work, fixing stuff around the colony, and dragging materials around. Thanks to being shorter, he was agile, and thanks to his intelligence, he won fights that weren't in his favor. On top, Ekko had stamina and could take a fair bit of beating, especially with adrenalin rushing through his veins. His physical power, however, was nothing in comparison to your arcana. Truth be told, you were the only one who was able to put Ekko in his place. You grounded him in reality, reminding him he was still only human. After a bit, you nodded.

"See you in the morning, after I catch some sleep." "Deal, see you then, girl."