#I’m like a dog that won’t stop fetching the stick until my legs give out from under me

[n1ghtwr1ter]

:/

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Hue and Cry XIX

Warnings: non-consent sex and rape (series), trauma, violence, attempted assault, some elements untagged.

This is dark!medieval!Bucky Barnes x reader and explicit. 18+ only.  Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Synopsis: The reader finds herself at an impasse.

Note: Things are heating up and we're starting to go full force over here <3

Thanks to everyone and thanks in advance for all your feedback. :)

I really hope you enjoy. 💋

<3 Let me know what you think with a like or reblog or reply or an ask! Love ya!

MASTERLIST

Days passed in idle anticipation. You kept Elina locked up with you and she grew more restless by the hour. When Lord Zemo came at night, she was happier but your sense of dread and impatience only grew. When the retinue arrived, you only wanted them to leave, but knowing who was roaming just floors below, you were anxious to strike first.

The baron was ever the voice of sense. Zemo was no beacon of morality, you knew that, but his honesty made him respectable. You considered how blatant he was in his intentions as compared to those other noblemen who painted their bad deeds as gifts. Perhaps he wasn’t entirely trustworthy but he didn’t trying to make you think otherwise.

You did your best to keep your daughter occupied with her many toys and quiet songs hummed out of tune. You bounced her on your hip as best you could with your cane in your other hand and crawled around with her like a dog. She was only calm when she slept as she longed for the sunlight that taunted her through the window.

You began to wonder how long the men would stay; how long you would be expected to stay hidden. Zemo mentioned vengeance and you dreamt of it every night. It was the only thing that kept you from quaking in fear and panic.

Tess brought your dinner and you placed it on the low table and sat on the floor with Elina and ate. You gave her tiny morsels to chew on or toss back at you. She was an energetic kid, stubborn and strong, and seemed to find fun in even the most dull tasks. You hoped she would grow up to be happier than you. Surely, she’d be more bold and more blessed.

As you chewed on some chicken, you heard that familiar knock on the door. Tess always gave a tiny tap and called through the wood but Zemo always gave that rhythmic beating. It was the latter, he was early that day. It made you worry as you left Elina to squeeze a piece of sweet potato and stood with your can dug into the wood.

You crossed to the door and turned the latch slowly. You opened the door and leaned heavily on the wooden stick, “well, you are earl--” your voice hung in the air as you stared at the familiar face, though it wasn’t Zemo.

You pushed the door but the man caught it and kept it two inches from the frame as he came closer. Peter’s hand trembled as he clung to the wood and gaped at you. He shook his head and blinked dumbly. The two years had given his face character and his shoulders a little more width.

“You’re alive?” he breathed.

“You can’t-- you have to go,” you pushed the door with a grunt, “please, go.”

“I thought… I thought you were dead,” he croaked, “I thought I--”

“Go away. Please!” you begged, “I can’t talk to you.”

“Or you won’t talk to me?” he challenged as he shoved his foot between the door and the frame, “how--”

“How did you find me?” you gasped.

He lowered his eyes and guiltily and clamped his lips shut. He sniffed and looked at you again, “I thought Zemo was hiding something from us. I followed him last night and listened… I couldn’t hear anything, I only saw him come here and knock.”

“No one else can know,” you said, “you can’t-- please go and don’t tell anyone.”

“I wouldn’t but-- I want to talk to you,” he insisted.

“You can’t. It’s too dangerous,” you argued, “you must go. If Zemo discovers you--”

“I don’t care if he does. Don’t you understand, I--I-- I thought I killed you.”

You were silent as you stared into his face. You saw the pain in his eyes, the shock laced with relief. But it was all tinted with the guilt he’d carried since that day. The false guilt you’d given him.

“I’m sorry, Peter, it was the only way out--”

“My aunt cried everyday for you and she never let me forget what you said to me. I never could forget,” he hissed.

“I know, but you have to--” Elina made a noise as she came over and clung to your leg, smearing food down your skirt. Peter looked at her and his lips parted in surprise, “no one can know about her.”

He nodded and gulped. He looked up and down the corridor. “I wouldn’t tell but I can’t go until we talk, I…” his voice cracked, “I need to tell you I was wrong. I lied.”

“El,” you bent to wipe her face and lifted her, “please, stay here,” you bid Peter as you turned and hobbled across the room.

You placed her in her cot, thought she only began to fuss, but you shoved a stuffed caribou into her hands and left her to poke its eyes. You went back to the door and found Peter staring at your cane.

“I’m sorry,” he said again, “that’s my fault,” he nodded to the cane, “and that,” he looked to the scar down your face, “I saw it. I tried to follow you that day but I wasn’t fast enough and you were--”

“No, it wasn’t you. I said it was because I could. I couldn’t tell the man who made me do this so I told you instead. That was unfair and unkind,” you blinked away tears, “and I hurt more than just myself.”

He mulled your words and picked at his sleeve. He dressed finer than the last you’d met, “I didn’t mean what I said to Barnes. You were sweet to me and my aunt told me what you were, he told me you were worse, but I didn’t truly care. I only knew he was hurting you and I was making that worse so I thought if I stayed away, he’d stop.”

“No one can stop him. No one. Those men, they cannot be stopped. They are evil in the flesh, they are borne to greed and cruelty. They only see what they can get, not what they can give because they won’t ever be denied--”

You heard a clamor, the pounding of footsteps from the stairway, and the frantic breathing of whoever was approaching. You opened the door further and pulled Peter inside. You shut the door and leaned against it with him as you listened and watched through the crack.

“Away, away,” you heard Melinda’s airy pleas as she swept past your door, “please, sir, away!”

“I just want to play a little game,” the deep voice made your blood curdle then the realisation of what he was doing made it boil even hotter. You gripped your cane as Peter frowned at you, “come here, pet, I don’t bite.”

Melinda squeaked as Lord Rogers’ footsteps slowed and you heard the struggle that followed. The muffled collision of her body against the wall, the small girl’s broken breath as it was knocked from her, and his lewd growl as he pounced.

You pushed Peter away from you and tore open the door. They were closer than you thought. Just against the wall opposite your room. Lord Rogers’ body shielded the girl’s body almost entirely. You raised your cane without a second thought and brought it down on his shoulders.

As he exclaimed and staggered, you hit him again, the time in the back of the head. You swooped your cane down and banged his knees so that he fell onto the stone. You hit him again in the side as he wheezed and you stood over him.

“Bastard! Bastard!” you hit him as the young maid and the other lord watched in shock, “how dare you? You beast!”

Peter grabbed your arm and stopped you as Rogers rolled onto his back and coughed. He groaned as he reached to his head and you were pulled away from him. You struggled with Peter as you wanted badly to hit him again.

“Melinda,” you said as you struggled, “go fetch the baron. Now!”

She skittered off like a mouse, careful to tiptoe around Rogers as he sat up and gripped his right shoulder where you’d hit him. He chuckled as he looked up at you. He grinned beneath the trickle of blood on his lips.

“Oh, well, what a treat this is,” he mocked, “the whore lives.”

“You’re vile,” you snarled, “I should bash you like the snake you are.”

“Parker,” he spoke to the man at your side, “hold her for me.” He grunted as he pushed himself up and stumbled a little on his feet, “let us remind her of who she is… oh, Barnes might come out of his rooms for this.”

He reached to his belt but Peter let you go. You looked over at him and he crossed his arms and shrugged. You gripped your cane tight and swung it again. The strike caught Lord Rogers across his chin and the next in the tender flesh of his side. You jabbed his chest so he was again on his back but he could barely get his arms up to keep away the storm of blows.

When he was limp and prone before you, you slowly lowered the cane. You quivered as you stared down at what you’d done. His breaths came in rattles. You leaned on your right leg as your left shook and you lifted the carefully carved stick.

You pulled the silver topper until it dislodged and revealed the long silver blade. Peter caught your wrist as you raised the dagger.

“Don’t, it’ll change you. It’ll make you as bad as him,” he whispered.

You looked at him and your hand shook. Hot tears streamed down your cheeks and you heard Elina murmuring, louder and louder as she wondered where you were. You sheathed the knife and plunked your cane down on the stone.

Footsteps drew you back to the end of the corridor as Zemo appeared from the stairwell. His face dropped as he saw you standing over Rogers. He took a breath but did not look angry.

“Well, I did hope to delay this a little longer,” he said as he approached, “but that Rogers was ever the petulant pest.”

“I’m sorry, he--”

“Oh, I can guess at it,” he nodded to Melinda as she followed meekly behind him, “I’d have done it myself if I had the displeasure of witnessing his lechery.” He came up to Peter and stopped, “but I will do what I must.”

“He won’t hurt us,” you said, “Peter… isn’t like them.”

“But he is loyal to his kingdom,” he pointed at Peter’s chest harshly.

“I am a viscount. Not a duke or earl even. I serve men like that on the floor because I have to, not because I want to,” Peter countered, “I have no lealty to the men who leave women like this.” He looked at you and bowed his head, “but I will admit I am not innocent of it.”

Zemo looked at you and stilled your hand as it was still shaking. "Do you vouch for him, lady?"

"He is a good man. If anything, I have drawn him unjustly into this mess," you said, "I knew you wanted to wait longer--"

"No use in apologies," Zemo grasped your shoulder and squeezed, "this stalemate would not have lasted forever. I am not entirely unprepared."

Elina began to bawl and Zemo brushed past you. He returned with her in his arms, rocking her until she quieted. He cradled her cheek with a mournful gaze and his lips curved for just a moment.

"Be quick, we must leave before the moon. We will move the lord out of the corridor and be away before they can discover him," he said, "by the morning, the castle should be empty but for our foreign visitors and it will take them some time to return to their home with news of such catastrophe."

"Is he dead?" you asked as you looked at Rogers' boots.

"An ox like him? Not yet, just annoyingly on the precipice," Zemo replied, "if we're fortunate, he'll have some lingering detriment but we cannot kill him. That would be an unforgivable mistake."

You heard a grumble and a croaky chuckle. Zemo turned and you looked down on the dazed duke.

"That is a beautiful girl," Lord Rogers rasped, "looks like her father."

Zemo's pupils turned to pinpoints and he handed you Elina. He bent and knocked Rogers across the cheek so that his head bounced off the stone. The baron shook out his hand as he stood straight and his nostrils flared.

"Lord Parker, was it?" He looked to Peter, "help me move him. We haven't time to spare."

[fandom-collective-writers]

a two player game | obey me | leviathan

title | a two player game fandom | obey me! character | leviathan genre | smut, mild comedy? (situational)  warnings | includes sexual activities kinks | tentacles, bondage, suspension, sensory deprivation intended gender audience | female pov | second word count | 2869 words (haha, 69)  written by | @mythiica requested by | @jennacat84​ other comments | i return, and ofc it’s with smut. this turned out pretty well! there’s more banter than usual and i had a grand time writing it

“And what are you doing with this game~?” 

It’s an innocent enough question until Leviathan tips his head back to glance at the game in question. 

“How did you sneak hentai into the House of Lamentation? I would have expected Lucifer to have some anti-porn devil dog to confiscate these types of things.” Your fingers are perfectly curled over the main character’s lewd expression as she’s ravaged by… tentacles. 

“Uh–” 

You smile slyly and drape your arms over his shoulders as the blush settles across his cheeks. 

“I got it as part of a promotion. People pay me to review games, y’know.” It’s the best excuse he can give really, but he is at fault for not hiding it better. “Now give it here so I can put it inside of my desk. If Mammon finds this, I’ll hear about it for the next century.” Leviathan paws at the box, but you hold it just out of reach. 

“You haven’t opened it.” “It’s a two player game.” “You plus me equals two.”

Leviathan laughs a bit and scratches the back of his neck. “Very perceptive. You don’t even know what the game is about.” 

“Play as Haru or control the tentacle monster that has her locked up in its underwater dungeon. Win the game by resisting the orgasms or by bringing the second player to their knees,” you read from the back of the case. “Sounds easy enough. Wouldn’t it be funny if you were getting pegged by tentacles though, and I was the one to control them?” 

Levi finally manages to swipe the game from your hand and sets it down on a stack of papers. “You’re into that? I think we skipped over that in last week’s kink-meeting.” The demon laughs at his own joke. (There had not, in fact, been a kink meet between the two of you, but it makes you giggle as well.)

“You never asked! I’d be down to try it with you.” 

His nose brushes against yours gently and his hand finds yours. As Levi’s fingers lace with yours, you reach for the box with your opposite hand, click it open, ignore the surprised hey! and hold on tight so that the game absorbs the two of you. 

Maybe you jinxed it when you teased Levi about getting pegged, because now you’re the one bound and half suspended in the air. When you try to move your wrist, the kelp-like ties around your wrist only grow tighter. “Kinky,” you mutter under your breath. 

There’s a loud crashing sound outside of your cell, but it is quickly followed by Levi’s familiar voice. He looks damn good as a merperson: dark purple hair floats just above his shoulders, an iridescent tail, and of course (likely the best scene of them all) his more-than-usual pronounced abdominal muscles flecked with purple scales. 

“Finally! I found you– I’ve been going through this maze for ages, just looking for you.” 

“Did you miss the sign that says ‘human sex prisoner here’? Maybe turn the neon lights on.” 

This earns a laugh from Leviathan before he leans against a pillar. “You look good,” he comments, checking you out in the same manner you had. When your face turns into a quizzical frown, Levi fetches one of the mirrors on the other side of the room. Upon holding it up, you realize he’s not entirely wrong. You are sporting a half ripped bikini top (calling it meager would be generous) and a sheer skirt that hangs from your hips. 

“Are we underwater?” 

“Technically, yes– at least according to the game we’re meant to be. Don’t question things too much, this game is still in its beta stages.” He pushes his bangs back and fusses with one of his gold rings. 

“Oh, I see.” You continue to hang in place. “...What now?” 

Leviathan lifts a hand. “Well… you read the instructions. Either you cum and I win, or you hold out and win.” 

It takes a moment before you hear similar crashing noises. Swallowing hard, you turn your head back and see shadows darting around in the shadows. Finally, they emerge into the light: tentacles. They’re not attached to anything in particular. In fact, you can’t tell where they have come from, but your attention is quickly pulled back towards Levi. 

He grasps your chin with one hand and smiles almost devilishly. “Y’know, I was going to be nice, but you were so cocky that I think I’ll just edge you and make you cum.” Levi has the ability to control these tentacles, and suddenly, you’re being held in place by said appendages rather than the kelp bindings. 

“So, what, you’re going to take meme with your fancy new toys?” 

One of the limbs climbs up your right leg, pulling your thighs apart. It doesn’t feel sticky in particular, but you can’t help but yelp at the sharp sensation of cold air hitting your now semi-exposed cunt. You yelp meekly and try to keep your legs closed, but there is no way you can overpower the tentacles. 

Levi makes his way over to you and brushes his fingers over your collarbone. “Hm.. I think I will. This will be entertaining, no?” He lowers his head slightly to press a kiss to your lips. “Tell me if it hurts, alright? There might be some glitches because of the game.” 

You’re not entirely sure how he’s controlling the tentacles, but before you can manage a response, one begins to prod at your entrance. It’s cold and sticky, but makes you moan nonetheless. “Levi!” 

“What, did you orgasm just from that? I’m only testing things out.” 

“Get on with it–” 

“Oh? Gladly..” Levi covers your eyes with his hand and keeps the other at your jaw. Driven by a seemingly animalistic urge, he presses his hips against yours while stealing wet kisses from your lips. The tentacle moves in sync with Levi’s motions: every body roll translates to a languid stroke from the extra appendage. When he captures your nipple with two fingers, a suction cup finds your clit and pulls at it teasingly. 

It’s a plethora of sensations, all at once, and is almost overwhelming. You’re being ravaged by Leviathan and his tentacles at the same time, but the worst part is that you can’t even see his beautiful expression as he wrecks you. How could anyone last in a game like this? 

Saliva dribbles from your swollen lips and you open your mouth to say something, call his name– anything to warn him that your underwater tryst might come to an end faster than you could have anticipated. 

A pathetic moan rolls off your tongue, but it’s cut short when something smacks your ass. Another tentacle?! How many are there?! 

Not that you could count them, even if you wanted to, because Levi keeps his hand firmly over your eyes. It’s torture at this point, feeling every little thing and listening to the intense lewd sounds, but not being able to see them. 

“Levi,” you whine with desperation. “I can’t see– I want to see you.” 

“Eh?” He moves his hand back, and you nearly squeal with delight at his expression. Leviathan is blushing more than usual, as if he’s feeling pleasure from what the tentacles are doing to you. “Better? Does it hurt?” 

You shake your head. “You’re so cute…” 

“Cute?” Levi huffs. “I’m fucking you with tentacles made of pixels and you call me cute?” Now he laughs a bit and a few suction cups stick to your ass, pulling your cheeks apart. “I can’t do you anally though, that’s Level 2.” 

Now you’re the one laughing, tears prickling in the corners of your eyes. “Are you serious?” 

“Yes, I actually am. No matter who wins, with each level increase, more toys and positions are unlocked. That’s kind of smart actually.” 

“But Levi, don’t you want to put your tentacle in my ass?” 

This makes him shiver, and you know what the answer is. Regardless, it seems like any attempts to make the tip of the tentacle get closer to your second hole, nothing happens. With a pensive sigh, your hips meet the side of his tail so that you’re grinding on both Levi and the tentacle simultaneously. “This will have to do.” 

Up until this moment, the tentacles hadn’t actually entered you, but instead danced around your hole and focused on your clit. However, your momentary leap of authority gives him a figuratively boner, since he doesn’t technically have a visible dick. It might be in his tail somewhere… but you aren’t about to ask where he’s hiding his cock. That would be weird. 

“Hey Levi?”

He grunts back in response, obviously focused on other things. 

“Do you think you can penetrate me? I’m sure you’ll win if you do–”

“It’s not as easy as you think– I have to give each thing something to do or my stats drop.” “You have stats?!” You lean back slightly and eye Leviathan. 

“Yeah, just flex your palm.” You give Levi a flat stare. “It’s kind of difficult to do that when my wrists are bound.” 

The tentacle holding your right hand releases slightly, giving you enough room to do as he’s suggested. A small screen appears in front of you. “Moaning level 2, cockwarming level 1– wait I can change the size of my breasts?!” 

Levi pauses for a moment long enough to look at the small screen. “Oh, yeah, I had dick options too, but I didn’t mess with them yet.” 

This makes you blink a few times in astonishment, thinking that this game is far more complicated than the first one you played. You want to look through the menu more and see what other things you can do– your mind drifts to the actual purpose of the game. Could there be a power up that would help you resist the tentacles? 

Before you can continue scrolling, the slick sound of something penetrating you fills your ears. He’s done what you’ve asked him to, and is absolutely merciless about it. Now that Levi’s found a way to fuck you hard, he’s not going to let up any time soon. In fact, chances are that he won’t stop until the Congratulations, you’ve made your bitch cum screen pops up over his head, if that’s even how the game works. 

A string of curses fly off your tongue, meant to be praises than anything else, but you don’t hear your own voice. “Why don’t it let me say ----?!” you screech, dragging your fingernails across Levi’s bare shoulders. “I just wanna moan for you, Levi–” 

“Curse words are censored, but that’s stupid, I don’t know why. Is it possible you changed the settings?” 

You’re frustrated now because, now you’ve finally accepted that you’re his and the stupid game won’t let you call out for him. It’s not a problem for very long though, because the next thing you know, he’s kissing you. A burning sensation ignites your entire body now, and your mind can’t anchor a single coherent thought for more than a few moments at a time. 

The strangest thing: it actually feels like he’s the one fucking you. Not the tentacles, but rather, it feels the same as if Leviathan were fucking you in his bed. This makes you happy, so happy that saliva begins to dribble down your chin as the inevitable pressure of an orgasm starts to fill your lower abdomen. You arch your back in such a way that the bikini straps give away, releasing your breasts from the fabric. 

Next thing you know, you’re subconsciously grinding against the biggest tentacle– the one fucking your mercilessly– in search for more delicious friction for your clit. At this point, it doesn’t matter who wins or loses, you just really want to cum and see if those tentacle things of his will splurt out some cum. 

“Levi–”

“Hm?” His lips dance over the crook of your neck, and the last thing you need now is for him to suddenly decide to be all daddy-merman. You bet anything that his tongue is wetter than your pussy is right now, and the way his teeth graze over your skin–

And then you’re cumming. 

Something breaks inside of you, and then it feels as though you’re drowning but breathing at the same time. Is it part of the game? Is this what a simulated orgasm feels like? Your body pulsates like never before and you understand the appeal of sex games. Another moment passes and your mind goes blank, but only for a second because you feel the budding warmth of seed running down your legs. 

So the tentacles can cum.

You manage to find the minimal strength it takes to just open your eyes, and you’re met with Leviathan’s beautiful expression as he crashes down from his high as well. He freezes for a split second, almost as if the game is glitching or overloading from the sheer impact of both orgasms taking place. You pray that he remains like this for just a bit longer, giving you the chance to lean your head against his chest. 

Levi’s skin is soft, but covered with a thin, inexplicable film of perspiration. If anything, it just makes you giddy again, but you’re not sure that either of you could last for Level 2 in this sorry condition. Running your tongue over his pronounced clavicle, you nip the skin there and suck on it just as he buffers for a moment and releases a painfully loud moan. 

His heart thunders loudly, echoing in your ears. It’s the only thing you can hear until his hand lands on your cheek. “Are you okay?” Leviathan’s voice grounds you, and then you realize that the tentacles are no longer in sight, but have retreated into the shadows the first emerged from. 

“Yeah… but I think you froze for a second there– we should do it again, y’know, to make sure we can review the game correctly.” 

This makes him laugh. The beautiful sound prompts a giggle from you as well, so you throw your arms around his neck for a tight hug. It doesn’t really matter that your skirt has magically disappeared, you’re pleased with the experience. 

A screen flashes in front of the two of you, but you’re actually surprised to see the congratulations message. 

“We both lost?!”

“How? I made you cum.” 

You read the small print: “Haru successfully made the sea monster cum first, but unfortunately succumbed to the tentacles.” With a huff, you scroll through and read the extended audit log of your ‘underwater’ sex adventure with Levi. “That’s bull----! Ugh! I still can’t ----ing curse!” 

Levi shushes you gently before brushing your hair back and offering you a consolation kiss. He taps the ‘return to main screen’ button, and the two of you are transported back to the real world. 

Nothing’s changed since you left: in fact, it’s only been a few minutes, according to the clock on Levi’s nightstand, that you even opened the game in the first place. Before you can say anything, Leviathan closes the box and throws it into the desk drawer. “No more hentai games for you. I need a cold shower and something to eat after that.” 

You stretch and massage your wrists. Although there is no physical evidence of the bindings, you can sure as hell feel where his tentacles kept you in place. Disappointed though, your eyes follow the outline of Levi’s body, happy to see that his normal legs have returned… with a third, very aroused, appendage sitting comfortably between the two of them. 

“Levi~” 

“Yeah?” 

“Two things. One, give it a good review, but say that I need to be able to curse when I cum.” 

He raises an eyebrow, but then nods. “And the second thing?” 

Now, you’re smiling and reaching for the bulge in his pants. “I think you need a second orgasm to take care of this, no? But no game– this one, I’ll give it to you and make sure it’s real.” 

Levi just swallows and shoos you away, calling you silly and that he doesn’t have any energy for that because he knows you’ll leave him an absolute mess. You can’t help but laugh at his reaction though, because now he’s both painfully hard and blushing brighter than a virgin on a windy day. 

“Hey Levi?” 

“What is it now?” 

You just smile and wave your hand. “No, it’s nothing like that– I was just thinking, maybe next time we’ll be in reversed positions. Wouldn’t that be fun?” 

He contemplates this for a second. “Why, you want to try and win?” 

“Well yeah!” “In your dreams, Haru.”

“I was really worried you’d moan the in game character’s name instead of mine. That would have been awkward as hell.” 

Levi extends his arm, offering you a place to sit on his lap. “I wouldn’t do that. But let’s keep this between the two of us for now. Okay?” 

You nod and nestle against his chest. Regardless of who the game declared, or didn’t, the winner, you like to think that both of you won. At least for a moment.

. 

[needs-to-stop-looking-at-yigas]

Ooooooh I’ve got a great idea, sooga goes to rito village to confront revali, the only other asshole (he’s a much better bitch than CIL) he knows, and tells him about the cil bullying situation, and no rito could possibly resist helping sooga, and revali can be the ONLY asshole in his group of friends so he ain’t having none of it... bassically I want revali to beat cils ass. hope your enjoying your day!

Oooh? An asshole with an asshole. I'm in, let's fucking go.

"Sooga’s here, Sooga’s here!!"

The rito women immediately started to preen themselves, so excited. Revali couldn't help but give himself a look over as well. Sooga was showing up, unannounced? And apparently without Kohga? Either it was business, or pleasure. Either way, Revali stepped out of his house, being met with the sight of the blade master. Big, strong, he was a real heart breaker amongst the rito.

"Sooga! We haven't seen you in such a long time!"

"Oh you've been keeping up the work out routine, haven't you?"

Sooga, as usual, was swimming in rito women. They surrounded him like feral dogs, clearly wanting his attention. Sooga HATED it, Revali could tell, but it was a sight to see. Sooga looked more uncomfortable than usual however, so Revali decided to be a peach, and break it up.

"Ladies, why don't you let the poor thing breathe?"

"But Revali!!!"

They whined, a few clasping onto his arm. Revali shooed them off, shaking his head.

"Quit being harpies, all of you. Why don't you all fetch him a snack instead, maybe something with fish. You like fish, right Sooga?"

Sooga nodded, trying his best to keep polite.

"I do enjoy fish. If it wouldn’t trouble you ladies-"

"Oh not at all! KRISSI YOU BITCH MOVE!"

They damn near trampled each other on their way to their respective cooking pots. Revali chuckled, opening his front door.

"They like you. You should be flattered, rito men would LOVE to have them flocking the way you do."

"I swear they were about to pick me clean, like vultures…"

He stepped inside Revali's abode, allowing himself to sit down and be served a cup of tea. Never snacks. Revali knew he hated eating, especially away from Kohga. Revali took a seat across from him, getting comfy.

"So. You show up here, unannounced. And without Kohga. For what reason?"

"I actually wanted to come see you. It's...something Kohga can't know about."

Revali was listening. Maybe he wasn't too far off in his assumptions. A little secret between  them, away from Kohga. With muscles like that, who could refuse? He nodded, taking a sip of his own drink.

"But of course, Sooga. Just ask for it."

Sooga took a sip, stalling. He wanted those stupid lips, and he wanted them now.

"I'm...not sure how to."

"Sooga, the shyness is endearing, but my time is VERY valuable. So...ask me."

Revali leaned in closer. He smelled mildly of sweat, and holy SHIT he wanted to jump on him right fucking now. Sooga nodded.

"Apologies. You're right. So, I will say it. I'm...struggling with a blade master. Cil. He keeps trying to take MY Kohga from me, keeps making me doubt my relationship with him. I feel as though it's...separating us, and he's...proud like you. I don't detest you as I do him, but I just thought you'd know how to...handle it. In a way."

Not where Revali thought this was going, at ALL. He sat back in his chair, trying to tell his body that his ever increasing boner wasn't needed.

"Are you. Are you saying you're being bullied?"

"It...sounds childish when you put it that way. No, it's...more like, he makes me doubt my work and my love for Kohga. I'm dutiful, and I love my Master, but Cil….gets in my head. I feel like I should...end things with Kohga, if I'm so weak to simple words."

Revali could totally abuse this. Agree with this Cil person, and be Sooga’s shoulder to cry on. But Revali didn't bully for spite. He bullied for the benefit of other’s. Link demanded the most trust from him, and in the process, became a trusted friend in arms. So, despite how much Revali REALLY wanted to suck off Sooga, he did what was right for Sooga.

"Don't be an idiot. Somehow you and Kohga love each other. And this Cil fellow- he's abusing the mushy parts about you to get what he wants. YOU need to remember that Cil isn't some all knowing being-he's manipulative. I want you to go home after this, pick up something special for Kohga, and remember what I told you. Do you understand?"

"....I do. That's, oddly kind of you, Revali."

"Yes yes, I know, I'm a saint really. Don't go telling Link, he'll expect the same treatment."

"If you stop bullying Link, I'll end up bullying YOU."

They both shared a chuckle at that. Them talking shit about Link was one of the things they bonded over. Revali was about to say something specific about Link, when Sooga reached over to hold his hand. Revali felt his feathers fluff up (how embarrassing), just melting under such a big, strong hand.

"Sooga-"

"I just. Thank you. It's...not something that's easy to talk about with other's. They're so kind and they don't understand. It makes the whole situation-"

"Asinine?"

Another chuckle at that. Revali REALLY liked that chuckle of his. He was going to push his luck, maybe try touching something else, when his house was promptly invaded. By eager, loud, rito women, each holding a plate of food.

"Sooga! I'm so sorry I kept you waiting! I brought my seafood curry!"

"Oh don't poison the poor man! Here, try my fish pie!"

"He might as well eat sawdust! Sooga, here, try some clam chowder!"

Sooga sighed, while Revali sat there, chuckling. Sooga didn't deserve all the pestering he got. The women's attention, Revali couldn't help. But he knew one thing he COULD do.

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

"Have a good one Cil! Try not to glare some poor soul to death!"

"And you, try not to catch a disease."

Von laughed at the retort, pulling his fellow blade master aside for a steamy, drunken, sloppy make out session. Cil had made the mistake of joining Von for drinks, and had a pretty awful time. Drinks were shitty, expensive, and all Von did the whole time was stick his hand in between several pairs of legs. Cil decided a walk home in the cold night air would do him some good.

"So YOU’RE Cil."

Cil stood still upon hearing the voice, as well as the crunch of leaves, slowly growing louder and louder. He slowly turned, just in time to see his sudden visitor. Revali, champion of the rito. Arguably the best archer of his kind. Had to be, to make up for that short stature.

"Take it you've been looking for me?"

"Yes, actually. You see, to put it bluntly, I hate how you've been treating a friend of mine."

"You wouldn't be the first. I also don't care."

Cil was already bored. He tried to turn around and walk off, when he stopped, feeling something breeze past his head. An arrow, now buried into the tree in front of him. He turned around, looking at that angry face, and the now drawn bow.

"I think it's time you start caring. I want you to stop it. And I'm being nice, asking you politely. Don't make me act uncouth."

"Unfortunate. Us Yiga don't care for manners, not towards our assailants."

They stared each other down for a moment, before Cil rushed him, blade drawn. Revali dodged, barely able to avoid being sliced, unlike the tree next to him. Revali fired, only to be forced to hide behind another tree, Cil somehow deflecting it with his drawn blade. Cil cracked his neck, slowly approaching Revali's hiding spot. This was way better than just some walk.

"Come now, little birdy. I'll clip your wings quickly if you come out now, rather than later. If you make me wait...I'll make these woods sing with your screams."

Revali turned quickly, firing his arrow. He aimed not for his shoulder or even his head. Instead, he aimed for his hands. The weapon fell as the arrow struck, but before Cil could reach for his weapon, Revali pointed the tip of the arrow at his forehead.

"You can save yourself the trouble. Leave. Sooga. Alone."

"Ah...he's your little buddy, huh? He's not even asking you to do this,"

Cil lifted his hands up in defeat, slowly walking backwards as Revali kept stepping forward, right until his back was against a tree.

"How both you AND Master Kohga care for him so much...I'll never know. But I DO know...that it is a mistake you will both pay for."

He quickly grabbed the arrow from the tree behind him, and jabbed it into Revali's shoulder. Revali was about to just bear it and retaliate, before Cil used his body to push him to the ground. It knocked the bow out of his hands, and Revali was on the forest floor, with Cil wrapping his hands around his throat, and squeezing. Revali flailed, trying to do ANYTHING to be free. He couldn't breathe. Couldn't think.

"I'm sorry Sooga was your demise. I pity you. I-"

He didn't get to finish as Revali managed to lift himself up a hit, and swipe his talons at him. It hit right at his face, not just scratching his features, but peeling off his mask. Revali leapt up, grabbing the mask and holding it tightly to his chest. Cil sat there, covering his bleeding face with both of his hands.

"GIVE IT BACK. YOU DO N O T DESERVE TO SEE MY FACE!"

Revali glared at him, meeting his eyes through his fingers.

"If you'll back off Sooga, I'll give it back."

"He is a MUTT-"

"I'll tell EVERYONE I saw your face."

"They won't believe you."

"Rumors are powerful. Many would LOVE to make people think its real, just to humiliate you. Care to risk it?"

Cil hesitated. But when Revali's claws started to glide down the wood, he was convinced.

"OKAY OKAY! JUST. GIVE ME THE MASK, AND WE'LL CALL IT TRUCE."

Revali had no idea these masks were such a huge fucking deal. Whatever. He tossed the mask in his direction, watching Cil frantically put it back on, smearing the blood on his mask. Revali picked his bow off the floor, putting it back into its holster.

"You yigas better keep your word."

Revali was in the skies in just a second, headed right for Zora's domain. He stopped at Mipha’s window, giving it a knock. She opened her window, immediately looking worried as she saw the state he was in.

"Revali! What happened, you poor thing?!"

"I was...helping a friend. Suppose you don't mind doing the same for me?"

Was this a stupid decision? Yes. Like Link level stupid. But...Revali didn't at all regret it. Not for Sooga.

[lokischocolatefountain]

Kitten from Hell versus God

Pairing: Loki x OFC

Rating: General

Word count: 2.6K

Summary: A kitten from hell tricks Loki's girlfriend into loving it and worse, getting a pet of their own.

Part I, Part II

A/N: I saw this video of Loki being delighted by a corgi and couldn't resist...

The creature mewled as she played with it, rolling around on the floor just to earn her amused cooing and awwing. The little shit was desperate for attention and Loki stared it down with contempt from behind the newspaper he was pretending to read. She help up a stick that had a string with feathers attached at the bottom. The kitten lifted its paws up as an attempt to catch it, but was too stupid and lacking in reflexes to succeed. Its display of its helplessness elicited more cooing from her. He glared at the kitten from hell, but it stuck his tongue out at him before blinking innocently at his woman. He rolled his eyes at its reprehensible behaviour and looked away from the pair who were too in love with each other to space him any attention. 

Loki had never held as much hatred for such a little thing ever before. He usually hated to see Steven Rogers, but now he was checking the clock every five seconds like a doting wife awaiting the return of her husband from the battlefield. Steven and his boyfriend James Barnes had found the infernal creature in the rubbles after bringing down a hydra base. It lured them into adopting it with its pitiful eyes and soft meows, just like it has enticed his partner into giving it all her precious attention. The men, unfortunately, had been called in to deal with an emergency at the facility. So, his woman volunteered herself to take care of their kitten until they arrived home. 

He checked the clock again. They still had three hours until they would be relieved of their care taking duties. 

“Loki?” 

“Yes, dear?” 

“You can conjure anything with your magic, right?” 

“You know I can. What would you like?” 

“A ball of yarn.” 

“Are you an old woman? Would you like a pair of knitting needles with it?” 

“Oh, shut up.” 

“What are you going to do, knit a sweater for the pathetic creature? Is that what it has hypnotised you into doing next?” 

“I don’t know how to knit. But, I might learn just to knit this baby a sweater. Won’t you look adorable in a sweater, baby boy? And some socks to protect your toe beans.” There it was again, the low pitched voice she used to talk to the kitten as though it was a human offspring. 

“Could you conjure up a laser pointer along with that?” 

He furrowed his eyebrows at the strange request. What was she hoping to accomplish with the objects? He was glad that she wanted to do something other than waste all her energy on the kitten. So, he focused his magic on making the objects she desired and in just a few seconds, he had a laser pointer and a ball of red yarn in his hands. “What would you need the two for?” 

“Just watch,” she said, refusing to answer the questing and left the kitten’s side to fetch the items from him. Without sparing him a glance, she left him for the kitten and gave it the ball of yarn to play with. The creature rolled the yarn between it two paws, delighted in itself for having hoodwinked a fine woman to being its slave. He huffed loudly and returned to reading the newspaper, as boring as it was, to keep him from being further enraged. The creature would be gone within a few hours and he would never have to think about it again. It was not worthy of him picking a fight with her and souring their entire day. 

Time went by and it had managed to foolishly tangle itself in the yarn. She pitied it and untangled its tiny body, freeing it from its woollen confines. The idiot had not seemed to have learned anything from its traumatic experience with the yarn and immediately grasped it again, but was pulled away by her. The laser pen was the next to come out and Loki peeped at them from being the newspaper again, curious about what she was going to do. 

She turned the laser pointer on and focused it away from the yarn, immediately attracting the the kitten’s attention with the red light. It stopped wriggling in her arms and looked at the light with curiosity. She let it be free from her arms and the kitten ran towards the wall to catch the red dot. It jumped up to touch it, but was confused as the dot was now on its paw, not underneath it on the wall. She moved it again, now to the floor, and it followed to capture the taunting dot, but was again unsuccessful as she moved it away from its clutches. Now, this was fun… Better than giving it a ball of yarn to wrap around itself…

“You are torturing a poor, helpless creature with an illusion.” 

“Torture? Chill, I’m just playing with him. He likes it!” He!? Since when had the kitten graduated from it to he?

“No, it has mistaken the dot for prey and hence worthy of hunting and consuming.” 

“I don’t get why you suddenly care so much,” she said, still moving the laser pointer around to entertain the cat. This was it. It was over. His love had been lost forever to a four legged creature and he might never have her back again. Before he could dissolve into a puddle of self-pity, the doorbell rang. He sat up straight and rushed to the door, praying to the Norns that it was the couple who owned the cat. Sure enough, it was them. He opened the door and they stepped in, looking quite tired from the day of work. 

The men greeted the two of them and inquired about the creature’s behaviour. Uninterested in picking a fight and in a hurry to get them out, he spun lies about how well behaved their animal was. He added colourful words and waxed poetic about the magnificence of the creature in a way he had never spoken of anyone- not even his beloved. 

She offered to make the men dinner, but the two declined graciously before they left with their kitten. 

A week later, Loki was forced to realise that he had been lulled into a false sense of security about the effect the kitten had on his girlfriend. He believed it all to be over. Since that dreadful day, she hadn’t even seen the kitten- who had now been given the name ‘Fuzzy von Fluffykins’- as the men had found a sitter for it. But, Fluffykins’ spell hadn’t vanished as was evident from her words. 

He put down the book on World War II and looked up at her, doubting whether he heard her right. “You wish to have a familiar?” 

“No, that’s not- I’m not a witch, Loki. I’m getting a pet.” 

“A pet? A familiar, I understand. But, a pet? That would just be a useless creature. It would hang around you apartment and do nothing all day long.” 

“Just like you, then,” she snapped at him, stuffing her purse in her larger purse. She could fit her entire apartment in that thing. A least he had his pocket dimension for storage.  

“I do the dishes!” 

“You order the staff to do the dishes, Loki. You don’t even go near the sink.” 

“I get it done. What do you expect me to do, wash them myself? I am a Prince.” 

“Spoilt prince,” she muttered as she prepared to leave.  

He was annoyed that she would want to have some little animal around in the apartment they lived in together. He saw no point in them owning an animal. It was purchased only by parents who wanted to teach their children the bitter truth about mortality. And to fill a person shaped void in one’s heart. Was his companionship not adequate for her? Was he so dull that she sought an animal companion to charm her? 

In a flash of jealousy, he followed her out of their apartment, determined to influence her decision. If she was to introduce a new member into their shared space, he would at least ensure that it was worthy of them. 

“I am accompanying you.” 

“I can’t stop you, can I?” 

______________________________________________

They arrived at an animal shelter and Loki had been unsuccessful so far in talking her out of it. He listed every disadvantage he knew on pet ownership. She had perfectly refuted every single one of them. He had used every weapon in his arsenal and was now clueless as to how he would stop her. So, he just followed her into the shelter.

They were greeted by a scraggly, over-enthusiastic teenager when they entered. His voice was as annoying as Fluffykins’ mewls if not worse. Controlling his urge to insult him, he just followed his girlfriend around as she stroked a rabbit who was merrily munching away on lettuce in its cage. 

“When I was seven, my cousin had a rabbit just like this one.” She helped it out by moving the lettuce in the corner of the cage closer to its mouth. It paid her little attention before it went to town on the lettuce as though it had been starved for days. Even bilgesnipes did not eat so quickly. “But, I was not allowed to play with Bun-Bun. I’m very close to adopting this one just to rub it in her face.” 

“I was not aware you had a cousin named Bun-Bun.” 

“I couldn’t have been more clearly referring to the rabbit, babe. The cousin was Karen.” 

His nose crinkled in disgust at the thought of that woman. He had the misfortune of meeting her at the last family Chistmas dinner and had to keep from throwing her out of the window. “Karen? Oh, she is dreadful. The two of you are so different, I can hardly believe the two of you are related.” 

“You are Thor are related and nothing alike.” 

“I was adopted.” 

She rolled her eyes at him and went back to petting the Bun-Bun celebrity look-alike. “Anyway, she was dreadful even back then. She didn’t let me play with her rabbit because she knew how much I wanted a pet.” 

“You could have gotten your own rabbit instead.” 

“No, my parents thought they were useless.” 

“Because they are, my dear.” 

“Oh, piss off. I couldn’t get a dog either because my dad was allergic. And cats were a huge no because my mom was a dog person who strongly believed cats were evil.” 

“Correct, again.” 

“Everyone I knew had a pet, but I could never have one. I told myself I would get one after I moved out. But, when I started college, I realised I couldn’t even raise myself, let alone another life. Then, I got recruited by SHIELD and became too busy even for myself. So, it has always been a distant dream. With my promotion, however, I have more free time and I am grown enough to be responsible for one.” 

His heart melted as he imagined his girlfriend, little and jealous of her mean cousin who had a rabbit. He imagined her in pigtails as he saw her in an old family picture on her parents’ fireplace mantle, dimpled cheeks and pouty lips. He did not want to ruin her longtime dream of having a pet just because he was a little annoyed of a kitten from hell. Sure, the creature they adopt would steal away a fraction of the attention she gave him, but it was worth it if her wishes were fulfilled. It would be unfair and cowardly of him to eliminate competition altogether, just like monopolies prevalent in capitalism. He would not stoop as low as Amazon of all things. So, he gave up his pursuit and stayed quiet as she stopped by every pet from hamsters to lizards. What was even the point of them!? Doesn’t matter. She wanted one and he would help her out with it. 

He walked along the dog enclosures and observed each one, trying to identify the species they belonged to. So far, he had seen Golden Retrievers (who were like his brother in form and behaviour), German Shepherds, Pitbulls, French bulldogs, Rottweilers, and even learned of a new kind called Chihuahua. Its size was inversely proportional to the rage it contained. He never stopped too long to observe any of them, but that changed when he saw a short one with unusually shaped ears. 

When he asked the employee about it, he was informed that she was a Corgi, a breed favoured by the monarch of United Kingdom. 

He stood knelt down in front of the cage and observed the Corgi as she played with a toy. She spun around in her position, attracting and sustaining his attention. It seemed that she had taken a liking to him. Noticing this, another employee at the store opened her cage. The puppy enthusiastically leaped out and into his arms, barking at him and showing him how wonderful she was at playing with a ball. She quickly climbed off his lap and ran in circles around him. He had to turn his head rapidly from one position to the other just to keep up with her movements. Her tail was inconspicuously small and she had the cutest little butt!

Oh, what a joy she was! 

Loki couldn’t recall the last time he smiled so much over something as trivial as this. 

She fell over in front of him and showed him her belly, asking to be pet. He pet her belly, bring both the puppy and himself a lot of joy. He was so distracted that he didn’t even notice his girlfriend standing by him, observing them with a huge smile on her face. 

“Having fun?” She asked, snapping a picture of him as he looked at her phone. 

“No, just biding time,” he said as he quickly rose from the floor, embarrassed to be found in such a position. He laughed awkwardly and scratched the back of his neck as he thought of a way to escape being teased. 

“Loki, do you like the Corgi?” 

She had an endearing smile on her face, very similar to the one Fluffykins inspired in her. 

“Yes, she is quite adorable and terribly fluffy. Not as much as the rabbit by the entrance. We could get the rabbit, invite Karen for dinner. I’ll cook,” he offered, already a little dejected that he would never see the Corgi ever again. “Not the rabbit. I will cook food. Food that doesn’t include a rabbit,” he quickly added. 

The creature had already begun pawing his shoes for attention and it took every ounce of his will power to not bend down and lift her up and into his arms. He would not let his few minutes of infatuation with a puppy overshadow her decades of desire for a pet. 

“Yeah, it was very clear that you weren’t going to cook the rabbit, Lokes.” 

“Yeah, I don’t know why I said that.” 

She gasped and dramatically clutched her chest. “Wow, that’s the second time. You usually don’t use contractions. You love the Corgi so much that your mouth is out of control.”

“It slipped!” 

“Aww, baby. Lets get the Corgi. She’s so cute and you’re so cute with her.” 

“Really? But what about getting a rabbit and rubbing it in Karen’s face?” 

“Oh, screw her,” she said dismissively. “I really wanted a pet and both of us like this one,” she said looking down at the puppy with her sparkling joyous eyes. He finally bent down to pick up the Corgi, filled with joy as she barked. When she kissed him, his lips were stretched out in a wide grin and couldn’t even kiss her back properly. She left God and puppy behind to take care of paperwork as the two played with each other, overjoyed to have found love in the other. 

Part II

[maknaesdancersrappers]

Attempt #13: Give them space

<< the twelfth attempt

wc: 3k

“I’ve never skipped school before.” You confessed as Taeyong led you out the school’s main building by the hand. The school was pretty lenient about students coming in and out as they please as long they swiped their ID’s for security purposes at the entry/exit points.

He lets go of your hand and turns to you, “You don’t want to leave?”

“I… I mean,” You already had your bags with you, taking your ID out, “Where would we go?”

He’s pensive for a second, “I have a place in mind.”

Taeyong doesn’t hold your hand when he leads the way and you’re grateful for that, he must have guessed the root of your problems already. He ignores your questions about where you two were heading off to, hopping onto the bus, and asks about the upcoming Jeju trip after finding a seat. He’s careful about mentioning Jaehyun, skirting around any topic that could possibly bring him into the conversation.

After half an hour, you get off and walk a few minutes until you reached an animal shelter.

“A shelter?”

Taeyong nods, “They’re all rescues; the shop is always looking for volunteers to help around. When I’m sad, I come here to be surrounded by puppies or kittens that just wants to love a human.”

He leads you inside and he greets the man behind the register, bowing slightly and you follow after him.

“Taeyong-ah! Isn’t it a little too early for school to be out?”

“Ah… it is, but it’s sort of an emergency.” He gestures to you, “My friend is sad and I know a few little friends who can help.”

You offer a polite smile to the man when his attention is brought over to you and he exclaims, “Oh! You must be the girl Taeyong talks about! Jangmi—”

“No!” Taeyong cuts in, cheeks blushing and using both hands to dismiss him, “This is [Y/N], she’s just a friend.”

“My apologies! Hello, [Y/N]. I’m Dongju, the shelter’s general manager. The puppies have been bored with each other the last few days, I’m sure they’ll enjoy your company. Taeyong, don’t give them treats! They broke into their snack bin this morning so luckily for you, they’re all freshly bathed.”

The phone rings and Dongju gestures for them to head on back while he answers the call. You follow Taeyong to the back door that leads to an open space with multiple play areas for the animals. There were puppies chasing each other that stopped when Taeyong opened up the fence to let you in and started running towards him.

Your heart melted at them, dropping to your knees when some of them paid attention to you instead and jumped onto your lap to lick your face. “Oh my god! They’re so cute!”

He sat beside you, trying to entertain three pups at once. “That’s Pretty, she’s been here the longest.”

The small dog was white with a light dusting of tea colored fur on her ears that spread out to the top of her head. She was soft, too, forcing your hand to pet her by nudging her head under your palm. “Hello, Pretty.”

She sits on your lap and just looks up at you, panting with her tongue out while her tail wagged vigorously.

Taeyong introduces to the pups he remembers, telling their back stories and things they liked and hated, funny anecdotes he knows of them. Both of you played with them — throwing sticks, discs, and balls for them to fetch, handing them chew toys — until they were tired and napped around your seated bodies.

With a mixed Jindo pup named Geumgang on your lap drifted off, you curiously asked, “So you talk about Jangmi with the people here?”

He looks away from, probably hiding the color rising to his cheeks, “They’ve been trying to match me up with their sisters or nieces when I first started volunteering here. I only used her as an excuse so the matchmaking won’t push through, but… in the end, I couldn’t stop talking about her.”

Silence befalls both of you, letting the sound of nature and distant car engines take over. A few pups snored and whimpered in their sleeps when you spoke up again, “Aren’t you going to ask me what’s wrong?”

“Do you want me to?” Taeyong cards his fingers through the long fur of the pup beside him, “If it was enough to convince you to ditch school for the first time with a panic attack about to happen, then I’d rather wait until you’re ready to talk about it.”

“I kissed Jaehyun.” You blurted out, waking up Geumgang, who moved off your lap to continue his slumber.

He smirks at you, “Nice.”

“No, not nice!”

“Oh, okay… not nice.” He wipes the grin off his face and clears his throat, “Uh, what happened?”

You pull your knees up and hugged them to your chest, “I mean, the kiss was nice, but… I pulled away in panic a-and when I turned around Jangmi was there and she was crying and—”

“Jangmi was crying?”

You nod, burying your face in the crevice between your knees, “God! I told you! They don’t have to tell me. I know they’re dating! You should have seen their faces— Jaehyun’s after I kissed him and Jangmi’s when she caught us. He must have been weirded out with me… he didn’t even chase after me.”

Taeyong is quiet as you simmered in your emotions, replaying the entire situation in your head despite yourself. After awhile he shakes his head, “No, [Y/N], I think Jangmi was crying because of me.”

“You,” You sniffed, “What did you do?”

He lets out a heavy sigh, “I might have snapped at her. I just… panic when she’s too close or being too friendly. It’s either I think I don’t deserve her or my paranoia from middle school is still lingering.”

You watched him fold his legs like you did and leaned his chin on one of his knees, “She came up to me after our class and asked me to join you guys for lunch so it wouldn’t be awkward on Sunday — and I would have agreed if she hadn’t said Yebin sent her. She terrifies me — Yebin, I mean. She has the same vibes as the guy who liked Jangmi back in middle school.”

“What did you say to her?”

“To stop trying to force me into her friend group.” He mumbles, “Stop acting so buddy-buddy with me… I might have asked something along the lines of why they didn’t send you instead.”

“Oh, Taeyong.” You lightly scolded, “I think you’ve gone too far.”

He exhales harshly, clicking his tongue, “Well, that’s my mess to deal with. Now you know that she was crying because of me, not because she caught you and Jaehyun. Where did she see you guys?”

“The greenhouse.”

“The greenhouse,” Taeyong repeats, “The one she likes to sneak off to.”

You drop your head in embarrassment at the realization of what he was trying to say. Jangmi was crying and they were at the one place in school she can run off to for some peace of mind.”Okay, she wasn’t crying because of us, but… how about Jaehyun’s reaction? His face was just… surprised… not in the good way and when he said my name… he sounded so concerned like… an older brother talking to his younger sibling.”

He snorts at you, prompting you to punch his shoulder. “I’m sorry! Listen, I promise you that the last thing he’ll see you as is a sibling.”

“How do you know?”

“No,” He laughs, “How do you not know?”

“Whatever! I know what I saw and I felt it.” You check your phone for the time, seeing one text from Jaehyun. 

“We need to talk about what happened, but only when you’re ready.”

The thing is, you might never be ready to talk about it. You’re hoping it could blow over and both of you would just forget it ever happened. “I should get home before Jaehyun arrives.”

There was an hour of school left when you get home and it gave you a sense of relief to know Jaehyun wasn’t home yet. As you trekked up to your floor, you faltered a step when you catch someone waiting outside your door. If weren’t for her ponytail, you would have ran away thinking it was Jaehyun.

You approached Jangmi as she leaned on the front door, spaced out as she stared at the ground until you meekly greeted her and she jerked upright.

“[Y/N].” She pauses, “I’m probably one of the last people you want to talk to right now, but if I didn’t say anything I don’t think I’d be able to sleep tonight.”

“Okay. Let’s go in?”

After unlocking the front door and letting her in, you ask her if she wanted anything to drink or eat and she only wanted water. You usher her to sit on the couch before grabbing a glass of water from the kitchen, setting it on the coffee table with a coaster when you returned.

“I’m sorry.” She starts as soon as you sat down, “I didn’t mean to walk into… you and Jaehyun. I didn’t think you two were going to be there that day.”

“N-no, it’s okay… you gave me a reason to leave.” You remember Taeyong’s words from a while ago, “Are you okay now?”

Her lashes flutter as she comes up with a response and the glint in her eyes tell you that she’s not. You might not have known her as long as Joohyun and the others, but you don’t think you’ve seen her so… upset before.

“Am I unlikeable? You probably hate me.”

You immediately shake your head to rebuff her accusation, “No! Not at all— I think you’re the hardest person to hate in school. Why would you ever think that?”

Jangmi falls back into the seat and twiddles the hem of her skirt between her fingers. “I used to be jealous of you, you know.”

“Me?” Did you hear her wrong?

She nods, pressing her lips into a thin line. “You’ve been hanging out with Taeyong these days… He’s not exactly the most social person so it comes off as a surprise to me. The only reasons I can come up with as to why he suddenly changed is because either likes you—”

“He doesn’t! I swear, we’ve talked about it—”

“Then it’s to keep me away.” She cuts you off and you’re taken aback by her statement. She chuckles, mostly to herself, “I’m sure he’s either told you himself or you asked about our past in middle school; how I confessed to him and he rejected me.”

Jangmi’s voice cracks at the last words; her jaw tense for a moment until she releases an exasperated breath and lets her face fall into her open palms.

Instinctively, you put your hand on her shoulder to comfort her but you don’t know what to say.

“You must think I’m so pathetic for still being hung up from a stupid crush I had from middle school.” She softly cries, “But I really tried to forget about him; I tried to date other guys and he even transferred to a different school! But it got worse when he left and I was so miserable, [Y/N]! Yeah, he rejected me, but at least I still get to see him at school. Even though we live across each other, we barely cross paths because he’s either cooped out playing computer games or out at the PC rooms — playing computer games.”

“I even transferred into your school to follow him and I don’t know if it’s mean of me to say that I was relieved to find out he still hasn’t dated anyone… until that stupid auction happened and he got a date with you.” She glances at you with eyes teary and wary, “So I was jealous of you… but what’s my right to be? Taeyong was never mine to begin with. He can like whoever he wants, even if it’s not me.”

“I’m so sorry, Jangmi. But I really don’t like Taeyong that way… and please believe me when I tell you that he doesn’t either.” You bite down on your lip, not wanting to confess for Taeyong.

She manages to give you a small smile, “I believe you… only because I know you like Jaehyun.”

“What— how’d you—”

“Back when you sang on stage with him, I had an inkling and then when I got closer to you two, how you two interacted just confirmed it.” Jangmi finally takes a sip of the water you brought her. “I guess it helps that I’m in the same position as you; in love and all. It’s like looking in a mirror.”

You make eye contact with her and she shrugs, “But you still have a chance.”

“With Jaehyun?” You asked, incredulously, “No, I… He doesn’t… He likes you.”

This makes Jangmi laugh; heartily enough that even you would have joined her if you weren’t talking about Jaehyun’s feelings. “No, he doesn’t. Trust me, that day we met up for the date I got; we made our intentions very clear. We don’t like each other that way.”

You should have been relieved by what she’s telling you, but it still doesn’t explain Jaehyun’s reaction after you kissed him. “Why did you… bet 800 on him for a date, by the way?”

“There was a girl that I butt heads with before the event started and she had her eyes set on Jaehyun.” Jangmi recoils at the memory, “It wasn’t my best moment to be so petty and stoop down so low like that… but at least I can assure you that Jaehyun is all yours, right?”

“I… I don’t know. What happened in the greenhouse… I just want to forget about it.”

“You don’t want to be anything more with him?”

You let your posture slump over, defeated by the conflict of your heart and mind. “O-of course, I do, but when I pulled away from him, he just looked… alarmed?”

“This isn’t a romance novel or romcom movie, [Y/N]. Almost anyone who is kissed out of the blue by the person they least expect would be surprised — especially if you pulled away so abruptly.” She says with a slight tease in her tone before turning solemn, “I just wish I hadn’t interrupted you two. You didn’t even give him a chance to talk. You were out there so quickly.”

“I panicked.” You admitted, “I was just so convinced that you two were secretly dating and with all the kissing and you catching us while crying… my mind just came up with the entire scenario and stuck with it.”

“So you’ll talk to him about it?”

“Eventually. I just need time and space to… recollect my thoughts about everything.”

Jangmi stares at you, blinking repeatedly as if you sprouted a new head.

“What?”

“Nothing… It’s just… He said the same thing.” She shrugs, “I wanted to run after you but he stopped me because he knew you needed time to think about it.”

For a few minutes, you both sat in silence; processing everything you’ve talked about. Not wanting to end the conversation with a somber mood, you asked if she had skipped classes to wait for her and she tells you that she did after finding out from other students they saw you leaving with Taeyong. 

She receives a text and she shows it to you.

“She hasn’t replied. I told you. I’ll have to wait until she’s ready to talk about it.”

“You should really tell him how you feel.” She quietly comments, closing her phone.

It’s not like you had a choice at this point. You initiated the kiss; you can’t pass that off as a ”caught in the moment” type of thing and still claim to having platonic feelings for him. “I’m just scared of the consequences. What if he rejects me like Taeyong?”

“I confessed to Taeyong because I had nothing to lose. You and Jaehyun have years of friendship between the two of you; you can’t just lose all of that for a confession. He’ll always love you — and I know because he told me himself. He’d always try to choose you over anything.”

At the little phrase he keeps telling you, you knew she wasn’t saying things to cheer you up. “He told you that?”

“He makes me wish I had a best friend like him.”

Next door, you hear Jay barking and you’re sure that Jaehyun was home now. A quick glance at the wall clock tells you that you and Jangmi had been conversing for an hour.

“I should probably go.” Jangmi starts, picking up her bag and putting it on. You stand up with her and she holds your hand, “Thanks for listening to me. I came here to explain myself, but I think I ended up overstaying.”

“No!” You dismissed, holding her other hand, “I’m glad you came over. You answered a lot of questions I don’t even know how to ask in the first… I’m sorry about the whole Taeyong misunderstanding.”

“And I’m sorry about the Jaehyun misunderstanding.”

You pull her into a hug, which she graciously accepts. As you pull away, you hum, “Uhm… in case that Jaehyun gets… impatient with me, can you distract him? Especially if I’m still not ready.”

“Of course.” She coyly smiles at you and playfully winks, “But if I personally think that it’s been way too long for you to quote-unquote think about things, then I won’t stand in his way.”

the fourteenth attempt >>

[carmenskankey]

Writing About Horses (by a writer who has owned horses for most of her life)

I’m making this for anyone writing a book, or a screenplay, or a comic, or whatever that maybe would like to know a bit about horses.

Horse Personalities-

Horses each have their own unique personalities. Some are standoffish and others treat you like you’re part of the herd. Some horses will spook at anything and are all fired up to run and play. Some are lazy and wouldn’t spook even if a you shot off fireworks from their backs. Here’s a look at just some of those personalities.

Geldings (male horses that have been fixed) are usually sweeter in temperament. They spend less time questioning you and more time thinking about their food. Being fixed doesn’t entirely change their personality, but it does take the edge off and makes them a lot easier to handle. Stallions can sometimes be very hard to manage and if you don’t know what you’re doing, they can be dangerous. There are several barns out there that won’t even accept a stallion on the property. So geldings are very common. My gelding is dorky but incredibly intelligent. He’s always got to investigate everything and put everything in his mouth. He’s super sweet but sometimes he forgets just how big he is compared to me.

Mares (female horses) tend to be cranky at times. More often than not, it’s the mare that’s pinning her ears back and swinging a kick at her fellow stablemate while letting out a high-pitched squeal. We call this behavior “mareish”. Mares can be very opinionated and they will probably question your commands when riding them. My mare would never hesitate to express her displeasure at me when I made a mistake in the ring. It’s the joke in the horse world that chestnut mares are the most mareish of all, and for whatever reason, it’s pretty much true. But for all the sass and squealing, I’m of the opinion that mares are the best. They put their all into their work and when you make that special bond with them, it’s unbreakable. I love my chestnut mare.

Ponies are actually little demons. First, let me clear up some confusion. Ponies are just small horses. THEY ARE NOT BABY HORSES. It’s exactly like how there are Great Danes and there are Chihuahuas. Anything full grown that is under 14’2 hands is a pony. So there are pony stallions, pony geldings, and pony mares. If you can’t tell if it’s a pony or a foal, here’s what to look for: plump body with a long tail and full mane? Pony. Short body with lanky legs, big knees, and a short tail and mane? Foal.

Alright, back to the personalities. I love riding ponies, but I am also an adult who can ride well enough to make them do their job. Kids often cannot make them do their jobs. And the pony knows this. And he will throw your kid. He’ll stop at the gate and refuse to budge until he gets his way. He will stop right at a jump and watch your kid fly over his head. He will refuse to lift up his foot so the little tyke can clean out his feet. He will bite, buck, rear, roll, and do whatever it takes to get back to his food. They can be brats, but they will sure teach a kid how to ride well. Below is an example of an evil pony moment. Yes, that is my pony who had just thrown my little sister.

Breed also plays a part in personalities. Hot blooded horses such as Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses, and Arabians tend to be hyper, spooky, and/or eager to run. Cold blooded horses (Clydesdales, Percherons, Shires, etc.) tend to be gentle and lazy. Warmbloods (the mix of hot blooded breeds and cold blooded breeds) such as Holsteiners, Oldenburgs, and so on can go either way. If the Warmblood has more Thoroughbred traits in them, they may be more energetic and if they have more Draft traits in them, they may be more lazy.

Now for some likes and dislikes.

Horses like:

-when you scratch under their bridle, up and down their face, under their neck, and on their back (They close their eyes and twitch their lips in ecstasy. It’s adorable.)

-treats like peppermints, sugar cubes, apples, carrots, granola bars, watermelon, bananas, etc.

-the opportunity to graze

-rolling after a good ride (or after you spent hours giving them a bath 🙄)

-being turned out in a large pasture to play

-brushing and grooming

-taking naps (contrary to popular belief, horses can sleep laying down as well as standing up. It’s just that they only can for short periods of time.)

Horses dislike (or are scared of):

-pools of water (there could be crocodiles in that puddle!)

-snakes or anything that looks like a snake like ropes, hoses, wires, etc.

-flowers blowing in the wind, leaves blowing in the wind, trees blowing in the wind, etc.

-plastic bags (heaven help us if it’s a windy day as well)

-papers that move

-trash cans (they will stick their noses inside the trash can and then spook themselves)

-animals they haven’t seen before (cows, goats, sheep, cats, dogs, etc.)

-cars and trucks (be careful driving up next to a horse)

-balloons

-umbrellas

-shadows

-ghosts

-goblins

-absolutely nothing at all

-I think you get the point.

So these are the basic archetypal personalities for horses. They do each have their own unique personalities but these types that I have listed are fairly common. There is just one thing I want to stress before I finish...

HORSES ARE NOT DOGS!

I’m looking at you, Disney. Horses do not act like dogs. They require a completely different mindset while training them. Unlike dogs, horses are prey animals. That means when they spook at something, they’re running with little to no care about what happens to you. They can be loyal but when it comes to their instincts, they only care about number one. If their only way out of a dangerous situation is by fighting then they will do so, but it’s not to protect you. That’s just nature.

Another facet of their nature is that horses are herd animals. They like being around other horses and when you separate them, some become very upset. If a horse has had people around him since he was born, he may consider some people as part of his herd, but in general, horses enjoy the company of other horses.

Also, stop making them wag their tails, or pant or play fetch. That’s just dumb and I hate it.

I love horses. They bring so much joy in my life. They are wonderful for children because they teach them responsibility. Even though they can sometimes be frustrating, they will always be there when you need a neck to cry into. I hope this helps in writing your realistic horse character. If enough people request it, I’ll write some more facts about our equine friends.

[7deadlycinderellas]

The Ghost of the Red Keep, ch6

Ao3 link

Six and ten and all her years later, Arya will never forget the sight of Bran’s broken leg twisted and deformed. It’s the bone in his upper leg, close to his hip. Maester Pycelle says it may be well over a year until he can walk again, if ever.

He’d slammed his head into the ground as well. If he hadn’t still had his helm on then he could have died. As it was, he took a hard hit, and couldn’t say quite what had happened when he woke up.

“All I remember was riding Storm and then black,” Bran tells them when he finally wakes from the milk of the poppy induced sleep Pycelle had put him under while he set his leg. “I guess something spooked him, and he threw me.”

That’s horseshit, and Arya feels like Bran knows it. Storm was well trained, and had never so much as stumbled. It would take a great fright to even make him bolt, much less throw off his rider. And Bran’s leg…

Arya can’t quite remember what Maester Luwin had taught them what that bone was called, but she recalls that it was supposed to be one of the strongest bones in the body. A fall from a horse shouldn’t have been enough. Arya doesn’t think it was an accident, but she’s frightened to say so.

It will take ages for him to heal, and Ned insists that he shouldn’t have to do it in the capital. So in less than a fortnite, as soon as his condition stabilizes, Bran and Catelyn are loaded into the wheelhouse to return to Winterfell.

Bran is completely bereft when Arya sees him leave. This is basically the end of his dream.

Arya bids them a tearful farewell, and tries not to be too terribly jealous.

Everyone is walking on eggshells in the following weeks.

Arya manages to sneak around in the tunnels when the septas come to take Stan and Leo’s bodies away to the sept. There will be no funerals for them, the two bastard boys, but the least they could do, Arya thinks, is not cart them away in front of their mother.

She sees one’s hand sticking out of the cart, his skin pale with a strange, almost silvery sheen.

The plans for the tourney continue.

The next full moon is the second to last day of when the tourney is planned. Arya’s skin itches again. There’s danger all around her, and she can’t think of anything to do about it, she can feel it in her bones. She’s not sure if she should say anything to Ned about it, she’s not sure what she even could say, and all she wants to do is talk to Gendry.

She writes him what she can, but she’s not sure what’s safe to say. He writes her back, when he can, scrawled on the back of her letters in his still rough, He consoles her over Bran, understands how devastating it would have been. Tells her of another boy, an apprentice smith, who’d leaned too close to the fire and fell, burned his hands nearly to black. That boy wouldn’t smith anymore, he’d been on the mercy of the gods and the septas.

Arya’s so worried, she doesn’t even fight having her gown for the ball made and fitted. It is beautiful, silvery gray silk, the same shade as the rabbit fur in her cloak, even if the skirt is volominous and hard to run in.

Sansa finishes it up, her hand as steady and certain as any professional seamstress.

She twists, and bends over to grab something, and her rolled up sleeves ride up even further up her elbows, and Arya just barely catches a glimpse…

She grabs Sansa’s arm and forcefully pushes the sleeve upwards, ignoring her objections. The bruise is angry, purple with spots already turning yellow-brown. Sansa snatches her arm back before Arya can search any further.

“Did the prince give you that?” Arya demands.

Sansa looks away.

“It doesn’t matter. Soon we’ll be married, and I’ll only have to see him in public. I’ll have guards all around me…”

Her voice trails off and Arya has to stop herself from screaming. Screaming that those guards will likely be the king’s men, not hers. Screaming to Sansa that Joffrey’s not even a prince, but a rotten bastard. She has to use all her willpower to squeeze it down, to squash the urge. No one can know, Ned had said.

“Tommen told me he wanted to join the Kingsguard so he could protect me...Bran too, before... That’s what Ser Jamie did. He joined the Kingsguard so his sister wouldn’t be alone here...some good it did.”

Arya barely has time to acknowledge that yes, the Kingslayer did seem unsually close to his twin, before her brain starts screaming again.

“The queen knows this?”

Sansa snorts. Arya is astonished, she’s never heard Sansa make that noise before.

“I wonder if the queen knows much of anything anymore. She’s drunk on wine half the time, rambling on about things that don’t make sense. She said once that Robert’s struck her before...that made me feel bad, but then she laughed like it didn’t matter. She keeps going on and on about how she’ll show him…The things about Lord Baelish and Jon Arryn, and something about imports from Essos...I don’t know how her mind gets to where it does.

Sansa takes a deep breath before plastering a smile on her face.

“At least soon, I will be queen, and she won’t be able to make anyone else suffer.”

Arya thinks on that for a while. Once her son marries, Cersei’s power will be diminished. Once Robert dies, she might as well not be a royal anymore. Would she go home then, to Casterly Rock? Would that make her happy?

Arya thinks going home to Winterfell would make her happier than anything, but not without knowing her family and friends were safe.

The first day of the tourney comes. Arya smiles brightly and forces Sansa to the edge of the bench, on her one side, Ned on her other. No room for princes to force themselves. They’re not even wed yet, she insists.

She wants to enjoy the tourney. She would normally, would lap it up, would eagerly watch the riders and try to learn their tricks, pick a favorite and cross her fingers for them. Daydream about entering one herself. Aunt Lyanna had, she had said that the joust was nine-tenths horsemanship, and Arya could ride as well as a boy.

But everytime she looks at the horses, and the lance, her stomach sinks and she thinks of Bran.

No bone would break like that from a fall from a horse.

There’s a rush of stiff applause, and Arya watches the man they call the Mountain that Rides. He looks like he could break a man in two with just his pinky finger. He’s one of Cersei Lannister’s prized champions, or Tywin Lannister’s rabid dog, depending on who you asked.

She watches him holding the lance, and feels a chill on the back of her neck.

The next day, the melee, she begs off the festivities, claiming an upset stomach. She wonders at the empty seat beside Sansa, and her heart lifts when it ends up being taken by Edric Storm.

“My uncle is off seeking the maester, hoping to find a tea for my constitution,”

“Perhaps I should find him,” Arya interjects, “I’m feeling a bit out of sorts myself. I think we should both lay off the cherries.”

She tilts her head, and sees the very base of Edric’s hands. Marked with an ever so slight metallic sheen. Arya does her best to meet her father’s eyes, but she can’t be sure if he sees.

Sneaking into the kitchens is easy enough. The servants who can are outside watching the tourney, one of the bits of the entertainment there for all, those who aren’t are rushing about in early preperation for the feast that will end it.

Most of them pay her no mind. Lady Arya Stark never yelled or gave them trouble. Oh if they had known Arya Underfoot. She finds Mheagan easily enough, Barra sticking closely to her side. The little girl is bigger now, nearly five or six, though still quite small. Big enough to fetch and carry, but too small to stray from her mother’s side and be seen.

Today, she has a whining tone in her voice. Arya recognizes it, from Rickon, or shamefully, from her own voice on occasion.

“Mumma, I’m hungry,”

“Then you should have eaten your breakfast.”

“Don’t like cherries.”

Arya wrinkles her nose. There they are again, those cherries.

Something in her mind blinks to life. And that’s how Arya finds herself in the Red Keep library when there’s a tournament going on outside.

It’s not hard to find the book. She’d found it by accident before, it had been sitting on one of the tables when the Septa had been teaching her and Sansa their history. Arya had been admonished for reading it instead of listening, but she remembers.

Why a book on poisons had been so easily accessible had never occurred to her.

The joili nut, she read, was once a popular snack food in parts of Essos until it was discovered that consumption over time would cause poisons to build up in the eater’s body, causing weakness and stomach upset, eventually leading to vomiting, seizures, and death from too much.

They could be distinguished by the almondesque taste, at times almost tasting like ripe cherries, and the slight metallic look caused by the oils staining the skin.

Cherry tarts, is all Arya can think of. She smuggles the book out under her jerkin, and when Ned returns to the tower, she’s left it open to the correct page.

Early the next morning, Arya wakes to a note from Ned atop a pile of packages wrapped in burlap.

“Take the top to the kitchen, leave it behind the flour barrel. The middle to the stable, on the ladder above the saddle rack. The bottom is for Gendry, I trust you know where to leave it. Renly has Edric covered. We’re getting them out before this week is through.”

Being the ghost of the red keep has it’s benefits.

She saves Gendry’s package for last, and risks Ned’s wrath by sneakiing down to see him.

It’s early, only a tiny strip of sun, and he’s still asleep on his cot.

He sits up, blinking, when she flings the package at his chest.

“Hold onto those and listen. We’re sneaking you out, you and your siblings too. “

“What are you-”

Arya shushes him, sitting on the edge of his cot.

“The queen’s children are bastards. They aren’t the kings. We think she was keeping the rest of you around...poisoning the others, so she could have something to hold over King Robert’s head if he ever found out about her infidelity.”

Gendry laughs roughly. The golden children, flaunted in front of all of King’s Landing, bastards just like him. She doesn’t tell him the other bit, that other thing Ned confided in her. She had watched Jamie Lannister in the first days of the tournament, her stomach twisting each time in disgust. She hopes it’s not true, but Lord Renly has insisted that the rumours have persisted about the Queen and her twin for years.

“So your-”

“We’re sending Mheagan and Barra up north to Winterfell. You and Mya are going to the Riverlands, and Renly’s sneaking Edric back to Storm’s End right after the ball. “

She reaches out and squeezes Gendry’s hands tight. Her heart tugs. She would say that she wishes they could send him to Winterfell, but she’s not sure where she’s even going to end up when this is all done. If Ned’s accusations don’t go as planned...there could be war, and it’s better if they aren’t all in one place.

She hesitates, before handing him the other package she had grabbed when she brought Ned’s.

Gendry’s eyes go wide when he unwraps the sword.

“You’re giving me Needle?” he asks breatheless. Arya is similarly out of breath when she responds.

“You’ll need it more than me. I know you can make yourself a better sword, but on the road, until you get to where my father’s sending you…” her voice trails off, words rendered babbles, “Right now you need it more than me,” she steels her voice, “And when you see me again, you can give it back.”

She surges forward and kisses him, once, hard. She pulls back, his eyes are so incredibly blue.

“I’ll come and find you when it’s time to leave...please stay safe.”

Arya bounces on her heels for the rest of the tourney. Ned whispers more of his plans to her. All three groups will leave in the early morning, once the ball is officially over, when most of the castle will be too drunk or hungover to pay attention, and Arya must help them be ready.

He also tells her that he’s sending Sansa away with Renly and Edric.

“That will put her in danger too-” Arya tells him. Ned nods.

“But she will be far away from here, and I do trust Renly. He may not be the most brilliant or thoughtful of lords but he is not cruel and he is not duplicitious. He would bear her no ill will. And if she stays here, than she will be in danger too.”

The tourney and the ball will end, the ghosts will disappear into the night and the next day, Ned will levy his accusations at the queen. These accusations of adultery, treason and incest. Arya doesn’t ask what will happen to her, or what will happen to him.

At the suggestion of a visitor from the Reach, the ball will be a masquerade. That evening, Sansa and Arya prepare their masks. Sansa’s is simple, it barely covers her eyes.

Arya tsks at her while adding the fake fur to her wolf mask, that will go all the way over her head, like a helm.

“What’s the point of that, everyone will know it’s you.”

Sansa smiles sadly.

“Everyone will already know it’s me. They all do.”

Sansa’s gown is a gorgeous pale gold, enveloping her pale figure and making her look all the more regal, despite the anxious look on her face, and the filmy shawl hiding the marks on her arms. Arya’s heart tugs in her chest. She so desperately wants to tell her sister that everything will be okay, that she won’t have to marry that awful prince, but she knows how to keep mum, and she must.

The jousting ends, and the melee, and the archery contests, and Arya would be hard pressed to tell you the names of any of the winners. She doesn’t like this and hopes it ends soon.

Arya dresses for the feast and the ball, and tries not to let her worry show on her face. Sansa helps her lace up her gown and Arya places the wolf mask over her face, braids pinned neatly underneath.

Ned pauses outside when the handmaiden leaves, looking them both over. It’s been so long since he’s looked happy at all, that Arya beams.

“You look lovely,” he says, giving each girl a hug over their shoulders. “The both of you.”

When he hugs Arya, he slips her a bit of paper, which she tucks into her waist pocket. They’ve already discussed this, but she wanted it just in case.

“I’ll see you both at the feast.”

Arya and Sansa walk to the great hall arm in arm. Arya feels that her face must look preoccupied, because Sansa whispers to her,

“Thinking about your secret friend?”

Arya chuckles. She knew she was going to regret letting Myrcella call him that.

“One of these days, I’ll tell you all about him. But for tonight, I can’t.”

Sansa wiggles her eyebrows, and Arya realizes she’d never even let it slip before that Gendry was a “he”. Suddenly, she does wish she could tell Sansa all about him. As fun as it had been keeping him a secret all these years, suddenly, she just wants her sister’s advice.

The feast is lavish and rich. The centerpiece is what must be an entire roast auroch, with leeks and potatoes and huge boats of gravy. Smaller platters abound, rabbit in wine sauce, crispy fried duck, ocean fish wrapped in bacon. Arya barely has a tiny bit of each and she’s already nearly stuffed even before getting to the side dishes, the piles of oat breads, the parsnips and onions boiled in gravy, the little fried fishfingers. She barely even wants to look at the desserts, the gorgeous cream swans and piles of cakes, though she manages a single honey biscuit.

The spirits are flowing freely, and Arya watches as the king and queen at the high table make their way through what seems like it must be a whole barrel each. Sansa sips daintily at a single glass of Dornish red, while Arya slowly learns to appreciate her own cup of mead. No one else around them seems to be holding back.

By the time most of the dishes have been cleared, the music has started and the dancing begun, Arya is so full she feels like she can’t move. The nerves deep inside her don’t help. She can’t think that after tonight, she doesn’t know when (or even if) she’ll ever see Gendry again. Him being safe has to be the most important bit.

When the dancing begins, Sansa can’t refuse Joffrey’s offerred hand. He’d crossed all the way across the hall to ask of course, and this feast is in celebration of their upcoming marriage!

Everyone in the crowd are in masks. Some are as simple as Sansa’s (much as Arya said, the blue feathers do little to disguise her fair face and red hair), others are elaborate, more like headdresses than masks. Cersei herself is wearing a fringed golden mask, likely intended to resemble a lion. King Robert has apparently foregone the theme of the ball, and wears no mask.

Arya dances a few times. She’s not great, but as far as most of the expected ladies skills she was expected to gain, dancing is far from the most obnoxious, so she mostly sticks to the sidelines, watching.

King Robert is so drunk that he’s begun to slump over, though his mouth is still moving. Cersei’s back is ramrod straight, but her hand never leaves her wine glass, and it is never empty.

The night goes on, the crowd waxes and wanes, and Arya listens closely for the faraway sound of the time-keepers’ chimes. She’s waiting for twelve, the hour of the ghost.

Just when the night is beginning to drag on, and she hears the chimes go to eleven, Arya feels a tap on her shoulder.

The clothes he wears are simple, a wool tunic and leather breeches, but well made enough not to be out of place at the ball. He wears a simple black mask covering the upper part of his face, underneath the black iron helm, horns twisted to the front. All Arya has to see is his eyes before a grin sprouts on her face.

“What are you doing here?” she asks, excitedly, grasping both of Gendry’s hands in hers.

“Your father left a bit ago to go and rouse us all, so we could get ready,” he nods off to the edge of the ballroom, where Ned sits with a mug of ale, as though he’d never left. He’d only been wearing the simplest of black masks before, and is now bare-faced. “He gave me the mask, said he thought I might want to see you before we leave.”

Arya feels her face glow red, and she glances, embarrassed, towards where Ned sits.

“I’m glad he did.”

She reaches out and touches the helm. The metal is smooth, the horns well shaped.

“Is this-” she asks in awe.

Gendry nods.

“Your father went out, found Master Mott. He wanted to make sure I didn’t have any belongings I wanted to take with me.”

Arya swallows a lump in her throat. Of course Father thought of that.

“Have you ever been to the Riverlands?” Arya asks, choking back the emotion in her voice.

Gendry chuckles in response.

“I’ve never been out of King’s Landing.”

“Well it’s much nicer. I haven’t been many places there, but they’re all better than King’s Landing.” Arya assures him “Most places don’t stink like this.”

Inch by inch, the eleventh hour ticks by.

“Would you like to dance?” Arya asks at one point. Gendry quirks an eyebrow.

“This is a very rare offer, so I suggest you take me up on it.”

Gendry stands slowly, taking his hands in hers.

“I don’t really know how,” he admits.

Arya giggles.

“Don’t worry, neither do I.”

No one else on the dancefloor is paying any attention to them, the wine having flowed too freely. Arya hadn’t even finished her mead, but the butterflies in her stomach still take flight when Gendry places one hand on her shoulder and one on her waist like she shows him. As time keeps ticking, the butterflies turn to a body-wide sense of warmth. She rests her chin on his shoulder, and wonders if this was what all of Sansa’s breathless, giggly stories were trying to tell.

Their pleasant reverie is interrupted, by a sudden clamor and yelling. The two of them turn to find that King Robert, red-faced and full of rage. Cersei is standing, as red-faced as the king and shouting. Arya and Gendry are clear on the far side, and can’t hear what’s being said, but even from the distance, Arya would swear she sees the Queen’s lips stained silver.

Arya turns to Gendry, looks him up and down, and says,

“Let’s get out of here.”

She takes his hand and they slip out of the ballroom. The stairs outside that the walk following Ned’s direction twist around the outside, and when there’s a sudden loud noise, Arya can kneel and peer down through one of the balconies.

There’s another noise, more recognizable as a crash, and people start yelling in alarm, and milling about, and there’s someone on the floor, and Gendry tugs Arya’s hand and they leave it behind.

The path they follow comes out behind the stables. When they get there, there are already three horses saddled up, and one of the Stark’s men already in the saddle.

Mheagen holds Barra, who’s sleepy but not quite out, in her arms. She looks a little wane, and Arya suddenly wonders if she’d been eating any of the food left for her daughter and inadvertently consuming the poison. Gendry takes her from her, and lets Mheagen mount the light brown mare before handing her daughter back to her.

It gives Arya an odd feeling, seeing him hold a young child.

The two of them, and the guard, leave first, once they have their packs. Mheagen looks frightened, and Arya wishes deeply for their safety. She hopes Winterfell isn’t too much for them.

Mya is tall, nearly as tall as Sansa, and despite her diminished weight, the joili nut doesn’t seem to have taken much of an effect on her. Her and Gendry catch each other’s gaze, and Arya can’t quite name the emotion going through them.

Mya can mounts her horse easily, but Gendry’s never been on a horse in his life, and Arya has to show him how to step into the stirrup and swing his leg over.

“Let her do most of the work,” she tells him, still gripping his hand.

She doesn’t have time to even attempt a farewell, when they’re interrupted by the thumping of feet. Arya spins rapidly, expected Gold Cloaks. Instead she just sees Ned, holding a bundle, sweaty and frantic.

He shoves the bundle into Arya’s arms.

“Go,” he tells her.

“Father what-”

“It’s not safe,” his voice spills, “The king is dead, the queen too. Poison. Joffrey ordered the city closed off.”

Arya’s head swims, but Ned is already looking from Gendry to Mya.

“Keep her safe,” and they both nod solemnly.

He hugs Arya, whispering.

“You remember Harwin right?”

Arya’s head is still swimming.

“The master of horse from Winterfell-”

Ned runs a hand along the back of her head, unpinning her braids.

“He’s living in the Riverlands now. He’s loyal, you can trust him.”

He looks Arya up and down.

“Can you ride in that gown?”

This is real, Arya suddenly realizes.

“Umm, help me unlace,” she asks, turning her back. Ned pulls her laces on her gown, and laughs softly when she lets it drop to the ground, revealing the deerskin breeches she’d slipped on underneath. Old habits are hard to break.

Ned hands her the gown, folded up, along with the bundle.

“You should be able to sell that, but don’t right away. People might come looking.”

Arya mounts the horse in front of Gendry, clutching the bundles, and one of Ned’s hands.

“What about Sansa and Edric?” She asks, in a very small voice.

Ned sighs.

“I’ll do what I can for them,” he rubs the back of Arya’s hand, above her thumb. “Be safe, Little Wolf.”

Arya has to show Gendry how to kick to get the horse to move. It’s still pitch black as they leave the Red Keep behind, the lights from the celebration still shining in the distance.

Arya’s not even seven-and-ten yet, and she’s not sure where her life is going to go.

[fallenfurther]

Werepuppies 5

Puppies first full moon!

Original post, Part 1, 2 , 3 and 4

******

"Are you sure you want to do this?"

Virgil looked at Scott who had his children around him. It was evening so they were starting to calm down. They believed the puppies didn't change with the full moon, but Virgil had noticed a slight change in their behaviour that day. Maybe they, like he, could feel the full moon coming. They had been more of a handful and the calm they had now felt more like the calm before a storm, than them genuinely being tired. Scott stroked Sienna's head, which was resting on Vincent. Vincent was lying on his stomach, head on his front paws, big brown eyes looking into Virgil's. It felt like he was questioning Virgil. It was Dusty that had been acting most out of sorts. He was the one curled up in Scott's lap. He had even let out a few whimpers. Virgil was thankful that Scott had agreed to sit in to keep them away from him as he transformed.

"They need to see this. They need know what and who I am. If they don't see me change, they may not believe I'm Virgil."

Scott nodded, not entirely convinced. He thought that it could wait a few moons, but Virgil disagreed, and as he was the puppies’ father, his decision stood. He took a breath as he felt his muscles tighten. A whimper came from Dusty. He reached up and pulled his shirt off, quickly getting naked as the heat pulsed through him. Virgil gritted his teeth against the pain, his face contorted. It took all his strength to turn his head and open his eyes. Four pairs of eyes were looking back. His puppies were standing up now, full attention on the man who cared for them. Scott has slipped his fingers through their collars, though they weren't pulling on them yet. The next wave of pain caused him to close his eyes again and he felt his body morph. The growl he let out filled the room and his children yapped. The pain intensified as he felt his back legs morph and his tail grow, only to fade as he lost consciousness.

***

Virgil panted; his whole body was sore. He rested as he let the sounds of the room come back to him. It was the movements and low voices around him that caught his attention first.

He is a dog! He is a dog. He smells like a dog, and he looks like us, so he is a dog.

But he was Virgil. He was one of them.

The small voices were close, and it took a second for it to click who they belonged to. Virgil's heart jumped in his chest as he realised that he was going to be able to have a deeper relationship with his children than just that of owner and pet. Joy filled him, and he would have jumped up excitedly if he had the energy. Instead he lay still and tried to work out who was who. Something nuzzled his back.

His fur feels like yours. You think I could sleep on him?

Virgil grinned, which in this form meant his mouth opened and his tongue lolled out. Dusty. That was his Dusty! Two small paws pressed into his back causing him to moan. Little feet pattered away from him and Virgil hated that he'd scared them.

Maybe you should not jump on him.

But it looks like fun.

Virgil heard Dusty's paws on the floor near his head. His body was starting to recover, and Virgil could feel the moon restoring his strength. The fur on his head moved and something edged closer and closer to his ear. Virgil suddenly realised what Dusty was about to do.

"No Dusty! No!"

The whine that came from the pup made Virgil open his eyes. Scott was standing over him and was glaring down at the sandy puppy, who was now in Scott’s arms. He was watched as Scott carried Dusty away and plonked him on the floor. Dusty growled at Scott. His brother and son locked eyes. Scott's arms were on his hips, like he used to do when he scolded Alan and Gordon when they were younger. The staring contest continued until Dusty barked and ran towards the glass windows. Scott sighed and sat down, the two black dogs crept up to him, tails between their legs. They were rewarded with a smile and a vigorous stroke.

I told you it was a full moon. I could feel it you know. It makes me want to howl.

Dusty was pacing by the window now and Virgil knew his son’s eyes were fixed on the white orb in the sky. He was surprised to hear that his son felt the urge to howl too, and Virgil could see the agitation in the pup.

You will get into trouble, again.

Virgil pulled himself up and shook out his body. He stretched out each leg and wagged his tail slowly from side to side, reacquainting himself with the appendage. The two black dogs were now staring at him, their tails stilled by his movements. He knew that he towered above them. He looked at Dusty in time to watch the pup sit down and start howling. The howl may have been small, but it was definitely that of a wolf. All eyes were on the werepuppy, that was completely oblivious to the others in the room. For Dusty, it was just him and the moon now, and the only thing that felt right was howling.

Dusty!

The puppy jumped at Virgil's voice, as did his siblings. The shock of the foreign growl stopped the boy mid howl and the pup looked over its shoulder to the source. Virgil stared at him. The pup turned and looked at the moon with a longing Virgil understood too well.

Dusty, please don't howl at the moon. I know it feels good, but it'll annoy my brothers.

The puppy slowly padded away from the window as Virgil strode over to Vincent and Sienna. He ran his snout along each of them, inhaling their scent and enjoying the feeling of their fur against his. It was Vincent who was the first to nuzzle him back.

Are you a dog or a human?

Vincent's eyes gazed into his and Virgil was relieved that there was no fear in them.

I am both. I'm a Werewolf. I am human most of the time but every full moon I transform into a wolf.

So, you are Virgil?

Sienna's growls were softer than her siblings, but she was just as courageous, stepping up to Virgil and giving his face a lick.

Yes, I'm Virgil. I'm also your father.

Our father!?

Is that why Sienna and Vincent look like you?

Virgil looked at Dusty, who was hanging back a little. The pup kept looking at the window with his tail between his legs.

Yes, it is.

Once a month you become like us?

Yes.

Will you play with us?

Virgil carefully stepped over the puppies and headed towards the box of toys. Sticking his nose into the box, he threw a tennis ball out which his children dived for. He also grabbed the tug rope. When he turned around Sienna was proudly carrying the ball in her mouth while trying to keep Vincent away from it. Scott looked at Virgil and chuckled, before reaching down and trying to get the ball from Sienna.

"It's going to be a long night of playing fetch for me, isn’t it?"

Virgil felt a firm tug on the rope, and something slammed into his leg. Dusty growled as he regained his footing. Virgil wagged his tail and pulled back.

***

Scott glanced over at his brother. It was only 11pm and the Werewolf was already yawning. Scott had washed his hands of dog slobber a while ago, though his clothes were still covered in hair. His niece and nephews were curled up around Virgil on the bed, which he knew was a treat because they weren't allowed on the bed. Virgil's tail was slowly wagging, showing how content he was just to lie there. He was a good dad. He'd also been right about the pups. They had needed to see him change, and it had shocked Scott how much seeing Virgil transform affected them. They had been scared for the man that cared for them. Scott had felt their bodies shake and he felt sorry that they hadn't been forewarned like he had the first time he'd seen Virgil go through it. But it has gone well, and it hadn't taken them long to relax around his wolf brother. It may be the strangest little family, but they were fun. Scott hoped having the puppies would make the full moon that little bit better for Virgil. Scott walked to the bed and carefully lent over and stroked Virgil's head. His brother raised his head and gazed into Scott’s eyes. 

"You got this Virgil. You know where I'll be if you need anything."

"Thanks Scott."

Scott left the room leaving the door ajar. He looked at it. He knew leaving it open meant the puppies could get out, but it was a risk they were going to have to take. He headed to his father's desk to finish off one last piece of paperwork before bed.

***

Virgil lay on the bed, curled around the bundle of fur that was his sleeping children. He relished feeling the heat from their little bodies against him. The sky was starting to lighten on the horizon, and he waited for the change to begin. It had been fantastic and was a little sad that he'd have to wait to have a proper conversation with them again. Their werewolf genes meant they had woken up during the night, and it has been great to have someone to interact with in the early hours while his brothers were asleep. Although Dusty normally displayed the most wolf-like traits, apart from his strong desire to howl at the moon, he was the one who was affected the least and slept the most that night. It had been Sienna who was kept awake by the moon though Vincent wasn't far behind in his restlessness. Virgil nuzzled the puppy pile as the first pains started to course through his body. He arched his back as the pain intensified, trying to move his body away from the pups so he won't disturb them. He let himself go and passed in and out of consciousness. As he drifted awake again, he felt warmth against his now naked human body. With great effort and a shaking arm, Virgil pulled the puppy near his chest into a hug. Its fur was soft against his skin and his thumb instinctively stroked it. His child's face pressed gently against his neck as they reached up and licked his chin. Virgil smiled weakly as he drifted off to sleep.

[bullet-proofgirlscouts]

JiminXReader - In One Week, Part - 12 (Final)

Part 1; Part 2; Part 3; Part 4; Part 5; Part 6; Part 7; Part 8; Part 9; Part 10; Part 11;

The taxi trip back home was painful. Jimin cradled her body towards, providing her as much warmth as he could. He grimaced as how cold she was, he could feel her frozen skin through the thickness of the jacket.

Thankfully, she was ok. He had rushed her out of the university, taking a small detour to the locker room to fetch a jacket which he draped over her and closed tightly, and took her to the hospital to make sure the wound on her head wasn't serious, and to treat it if it was. One of the doctors did a quick check up, taking up only five minutes of their time before telling him that it was nothing to worry about and that it would heal itself in time. Jimin sighed in relief at the news, worried that she might need stitches. As soon as that was done, he rushed her out again, taking her to his place, refusing to leave her alone.

As soon as they got in, Jimin quickly made his way to the bathroom, drawing her a hot bath. She took around twenty minutes to bathe and walk back out the to living room, wearing Jimin’s white t-shirt, a black hoodie and a pair of sweatpants. A towel was on top of her head as she continued to dry her hair, before she let it fall across her shoulders. She thanked him for the bath, before she immediately collapsed on the giant sofa in the room.

Jimin however couldn’t stay still. He paced around the room, rage filling his heart.

“Ok. Who did this to you?” he asked, sternly, “Tell me.”

The girl shook her head. She was still refusing to tell him.

“So, its someone I know.” Jimin deduced, “Is that why you’re not telling me? Because it’s not a stranger, but a friend?”

She didn’t reply, simply looking away from him and down onto her lap.

Jimin groaned in frustration, running a hand through his hair.

‘Calm down, calm down.’ He thought, repeating it in his head, ‘Getting angry is not going to get you anywhere.’

“Look,” he said, getting down onto his knees in front of her. He placed his arms on the sofa on either side of her legs, caging her. He tilted his head to look up and met her eyes.

“I just want you to be ok.” He said softly, “that’s my priority.”

She smiled. Her hand came out to stroke his hair softly. Jimin closed his eyes at the touch, it was peaceful.

“I’ve never seen you that mad,” she said, “It was a bit scary.”

Jimin chuckled, “Yeah, I’ve heard that before. Jungkook jokes that there should be a world-wide shutdown on the days I get angry so that the public doesn’t get hurt.”

She started to laugh but then immediately stopped, wincing as her hand went up to her forehead.

“Ow.” She muttered, “I felt a bit dizzy.”

Jimins expression fell. He could feel the anger and sadness coming back to him over seeing her like this. She must have noticed it, and let out a long sigh.

“Alright, I’ll tell you who it was, but on one condition.”

“What is it?”

“You have to promise me that you won’t blame yourself.”

“What?”

“You can't blame yourself. Remember that none of this is your fault. Promise me.”

“But-”

“Promise me and I’ll tell you.” She said firmly.

“…Alright,” Jimin said, “I promise.”

She stuck out her pinky finger and Jimin smiled at how cute he found it. Wrapping his pinky around hers, he solidified the promise.

“So?” he asked, staring up at her.

“Well, this person had your phone and they sent me a text in your name, asking me to go to the music room.”

“My phone? Who-”

The girl stayed silent for a second, watching as the realisation washed over him, his eyebrows raised and eyes wide.

“It was Jihyo?”

She simply nodded, her expression sad, observing him.

“Jimin-” she started to say, but he immediately cut her off.

“I can't believe her!” Jimin yelled, shooting up to his feet, pacing around again.

She visibly flinched at his loud and angry tone, a look of worry now etched on her face as she just watched him. Running both hands through his hair in frustration, Jimin grit his teeth tightly to hold in the array of curses he desperately wanted to scream out.

“Why?” he screamed out instead, “why would she do that?”

Again, she kept silent.

“Is it…” he said, forgetting his promise, “Is it because of me?”

“Jimin, no.” she finally said, “It’s not-”

“She’s been bullying you because you’re close to me. Is that why?”

No reply. That basically answered his question.

“Oh no…” he said, his anger fading only to be replaced by bone crushing guilt. He walked towards the sofa and knelled in front of her again. He leaned forward, placing his forehead on her thighs, feeling his throat close up.

“I'm sorry.” He said, not knowing what else to do, “I should have picked you up from class. I should have been with you. This all is my fault. I'm so sorry.”

“Jimin.” She said firmly, her hands caressing his hair, “you promised me.”

“I wouldn't have if i knew this was what happened.”

“The only way it's your fault is if you told her to do this. Which...I hope you didn't do.”

Jimin shot up, still on his knees, “Of course not!” He said, appalled at the idea.

She grinned at him, pinching a cheek, “So, it isn't your fault.”

“Can i apologies one more time?”

She sighed loudly, “Last time. Then no more.”

Jimin nodded, standing up. Holding her hands tightly, he looked her in the eyes and said a firm “I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright.” she replied, equally strong.

They stayed in silence for a few seconds before Jimin asked, “Shall I make dinner now?”

She shook her head in response, “If you don't mind, I would just like to sleep.”

“You sure?”

She nodded.

“Ok,” Jimin said, “You can sleep in my room, just give me a minute to tidy up- and you’re already sleeping.”

You grinned up at him as she lied down on the sofa, getting comfortable.

Jimin smiled down at her, fondly, “Alright, i wont waste my breath convincing you to sleep in my room,” she nodded, “I’ll get you a pillow and a blanket. You should probably let your parents know you’re staying over.”

“Right.” she said, “almost forgot about that.” she struggled a bit as she pulled her phone out. Jimin left for his room, giving her some privacy.

He quickly grabbed his fluffiest pillow, his softest blanket and his favorite stuffed toy (it was this adorable dog character called Chimmy. It was yellow and white with floppy black ears and a tiny tongue sticking out. For some reason, Jimin could always relate to the guy) and walked back to the living room.

“Hey,” she said as he walked towards her, “My parents say thanks.”

“No problem.” Jimin said, with a smile. He tucked the pillow under her head, handing her the stuffed toy (“Aww Chimmy��) and draped the blanket over her.  She smiled at how efficient he was being, snuggling into the soft blanket.

“Thank you.” she said.

“You’re welcome,” he replied, brushing her hair out of her forehead, “I’m going to make some dinner for myself, i’ll be quiet. You go ahead and sleep.”

Jimin took a step away from the couch towards the kitchen, before a tug on his sleeve stopped him. He looked down and saw her grasping onto his shirt, her face a bit flushed.

“Can...Can you stay?” she asked, softly, “Just until I fall asleep?”

Jimin hesitated for a few seconds too long before she started to panic and backpedal, afraid she made him uncomfortable, “I mean,” she said, “Unless that’s something you don’t want to.”

“No, it’s ok. I don’t mind.”

“You sure? I wouldn’t ask this, but I’ve sort of gotten used to someone being with me when I’m…going through some stuff. It's usually Grandpa, or Yoongi, or Tae, or Namjoon or Jin!”

“It’s fine!” Jimin said quickly, squashing down a hint of jealousy he would deny was there, He sat down on the floor, his back leaning against the sofa. He could just turn his head and see her face, all squished against the pillow. She smiled at him, wrapping the blanket tighter around herself. She closed her eyes, sighing in comfort as sleep was slowly starting to take over her. After ten minutes, she was fast asleep. Jimin chuckled, standing up slowly. He looked down at her, cooing silently at how adorable she looked.

He was going to take a picture.

No, wait. He thought, that’s weird. And creepy. Don’t be creepy Jimin.

As he was thinking that, he swiftly brought his phone out and snapped a quick pic.

He gazed at the picture as he walked towards the kitchen. He had to be quiet, and so he decided to make simple ramen. Five minutes later, he was sitting by the dining table, quietly slurping his noodles. Finishing his dinner, he tossed the bowl in the sink. He sent his dad a quick text, informing him that a friend was staying over and he shouldn’t be surprised if he comes home to see a random stranger on the couch, to which his father sent an affirmative, informing him that he’s staying over at the hospital for the night and would be back tomorrow morning.

Jimin sighed, tired, not knowing what to do. Usually, he would use this time to study and get some work done, but everything he needed to do was completed. He could listen to music, or read a book but none of that seemed appealing right now. He decided to sleep instead, maybe wake up early next morning, see if he could drop his friend home.

Speaking of which, he walked to the sofa to check up on her, make sure she seemed comfortable. She was completely knocked out, softly snoring, hugging the Chimmy toy.

Jimin smiled, about to leave for his own room before he noticed the towel that was still draped on her neck. A cold, wet towel. That couldn't be good for her health.

He squatted down, slowly grabbing one end of it and started to pull as gently as possible, not to wake her up. It was almost free, but the movement made her stir, causing her body to shift from her back to her side, trapping the towel even tighter underneath her. Jimin sighed softly, pausing for a second before he tried to pull the towel away. However, his hand was quite close to her face and the warmth must have comforted her, and before he knew it, she had grabbed his hand in her sleep, cuddling it to her cheek tightly.

Jimin blushed beet red, surprised. She looked so adorable Jimin might die with all the swooning he was doing in his head. Unfortunately, his thighs were starting to ache and he needed to get up. He pulled his arm away, but that only made her hold it tighter. He tried again but he was on the verge of waking her up, which he didn't want to do.

“Oh, what the hell.” he muttered, before carefully climbing onto the sofa. The couch was large enough for the both of them, as he lightly adjusted her backwards to give himself some space to lie down. His left hand still under her cheek, the towel removed, he got comfortable, lying down, facing her, careful to keep a bit of distance between them. He gazed at her as she slept, feeling her breath on his cheek.

He had so much to think about. With everything that was going on, his number one priority was to make sure she was ok, he didn't even have time to process what he found out.

She was the creator of his favorite podcast, the woman he claimed to have fallen for, the talented person who managed to create something he cherished so deeply. She knew that too...she knew that he was pining for this person but it was her all along, but she didn't say anything. Jimin couldn't imagine what that felt like, to be in her shoes and be turned down in favor of a person who was still her. He couldn't understand why she didn't just tell him…

He felt awful. If only he realized his feelings for her sooner, she wouldn't have felt the need to hide things from him. If only he didn't gush non stop about how amazing the maker of the podcast is (granted, he's not wrong. If anything, this just makes him love her even more than before) she wouldn't have felt pressured or scared to reveal it to him.

This sweet, kind, funny, considerate human being, who put his feelings before her own, who cares so much for so many people, whose passionate and loyal and strong. She was amazing in so many ways, beautiful in so many ways, brilliant in so many ways, and he was so-

“Jimin?” she muttered softly, opening her eyes slowly as she got adjusted to the light, a bit groggy from waking up.

“I’m in love with you.” Jimin said.

A deafening silence wafted over them, her eyes widened at what he said, now fully awake.

“You-” she stuttered, “You what?”

“...I love you.” Jimin confessed again.

Her mouth opened and closed a few times, no words leaving it, before she finally said, “You heard me sing, didn't you?”

He wasn't going to lie to her, “I did.”

“So you know who i am?”

“...I do.”

She let out a loud, painful sigh, “Jimin, i’m sorry, but you’re saying this because i’m-”

“I’m not.” Jimin said, cutting her off, “I promise you.”

She still didn't look convinced. If anything, she looked more distant than ever. Jimin had to convince her he was serious about this.

“Hey, remember last week when I came by your place?” she nodded, “I told you I was worried about you,” he continued, “which I was, but I was really there to tell you how I felt about you. The only reason I didn't was because you were going through so much stuff, I just wanted to be there for you.” She smiled at that, “Also, Yoongi threatened me and told me not to.”

“Yoongi did what now?”

“He had your best interest in mind.” Jimin said, dismissing it, “I was miserable for that one week and it made me realise how much you meant to me, my mood was awful, nothing would cheer me up, and that was before I found out about your podcast.”

She sighed, giving him a look of fondness which made his heart soar, feeling triumphant.

His left palm was still cupping her cheek, he could feel the heat radiating from it. He swiped his thumb across it gently, enjoying the soft feeling.

“I know its a bit confusing, with me...rejecting you two weeks ago for...well, you.” he said, “but give me a chance and i will prove how head over heels i am for you. You’re perfect to me, i’ve never gotten along so well with anybody, and it excites me to no end to think of a future with you.” she hesitated for a second, still processing all the information he gave her.

“Just let me love you.” he said, firmly.

She grinned, letting out a chuckle.

“Ok.”

Jimin grinned back, his heart feeling like it was going to burst. A warmth spread from his chest, all the way up to his face and he never wanted this feeling to end.  

Before he knew it, he was cupping her face with both hands and leaning forward. She closed her eyes, face red, a smile on her face.

And he kissed her. Her lips were soft and sweet, just like her.

The kiss was intimate yet new, amazing yet awkward, nervous yet amazing, was way too short yet felt like forever. It was perfect.

They parted, their hearts beating heavily.

Until she pulled him forward to kiss him. Again and again and again.

~~~

Love.

It’s a strange feeling, something i haven't felt in a long long time.

It’s a good feeling, amazing, even.

J, stop giving me that look, i’m trying to document this. You know what? Why don't you keep watch while i finish this? Because you’re distracting me. Great, thanks.

Anyways, as i was saying, love is a great feeling. I’ve been told my entire life, that the fondness within me is what makes me weak, what will get me killed, it’s what i've been trained to not feel for years. Now, i finally understand why. It makes you feel...important. Like you’re worth something to someone, that you’re not alone, that there is something worth fighting for. If you’re in love with something or someone, means you have that thing to lose, it becomes your weakness, it stops you from putting your life on the line, like the millions of soldiers out there do. If you love something, you want to go back to it, which, in their eyes, is a bad thing. They need people who are willing to die on the field, or on a mission, wherever, whenever. You can't do that if you have a loved one waiting for you to come back home.

Love..is a lot of work. It requires time, sacrifices, patience, so much patience.

What? Stop eavesdropping, J! This is why i said i have to be patient with you! No, i’m not taking it back! You have your own complaints about me, well, get your own tape recorder buddy!

What was i saying? Ugh, i can't recall. J has a dangerous talent of distracting me, not sure if that's a good thing or bad.  

Who am i kidding, I love that about him. I love that he can make me forget about the various, awful things happening, he keeps me away from the demons in my head, he keeps me sane and happy. If it wasn't for him, i would definitely be dead by now.

No, i did not compliment you J, i was just saying how i keep you around because you’re pretty! ...Of course i’m joking! It’s called sarcasm. No, it’s not something you can eat, i’ll explain it later.

Love is a very annoying thing. The amount of effort you have to put into it makes me wonder if it's worth it at all. Turns out, it is, it always is. I wouldn't trade it for the world.

What now J? I...I love you too.

You know what, i think i’m done for now, i’ll come give you company. I’ll just continue this some other time.

And it’s done! In One Week is concluded. I will be posting a bonus story in a day or two, an epilogue of sorts to wrap up all the loose threads. For now, I thank everyone who took the time to read this long ass fanfic, I hope you’ve enjoyed it. 

[shalebridge-cradle]

The Big Night - Chapter 2 (Date Night)

(I’m posting this here first, then to Ao3 later. I hope you like it..)

This is a bad idea.

A terrible idea, really, but Veronica is in no place to question Chandler’s decision to take her out on a date for her birthday. Yeah, she’s happy that Heather remembered (though Veronica doesn’t recall telling her), and yeah, she’s also a big ol’ mess when it comes to Chandler showing affection. The warmth of her breath when she nuzzles against Veronica’s neck, the comforting weight when she’s curled up on Veronica’s lap – it makes Veronica feel like the most important person in the world.

And, hey, who’d turn down a date with Heather ‘Legs For Days’ Chandler?

Who cares if it’s on a full moon?

 -

 “Betty! Hey, I was hoping to catch you.”

Betty, as always, looks pleasantly surprised. Veronica wonders how low her expectations must be if talking to a traitorous friend is something to look forward to.

“Oh! What’s up?”

“Well, you know the dog-sitting gig I’ve got? I’ve got a huge History assignment I need to finish, but Flash and Duchess need someone to look after them tonight, and they need a lot of attention. I know you like them – can you cover for me? I’ll pass the cash on to you, promise.”

Lies, most of it. No history assignment, of course, but Chandler was very insistent about keeping Duke and McNamara away from their date, and no way is Veronica just gonna leave them out to dry. Chandler did begrudgingly offer a bribe, though, so the payment part’s true.

Betty smiles sympathetically. “It’s not fair you have to work on your birthday. But sure, I’ll help – my parents are away this week, so no problems there.”

“Great. Thanks, Betty,” Veronica sighs in relief, “I can drop them at your place around six, is that okay?”

“Sure thing!”

Betty walks off, a spring in her step, and Veronica gives Heather Duke a covert thumbs-up.

Duke frowns in response.

 -

 McNamara is practically vibrating with excitement as she helps Veronica choose her outfit after school. She’s cleaning out Veronica’s closet, holding up shirts and skirts to her semi-willing model before throwing them into random piles.

It’s normally Chandler who has the final say on fashion, but she’s taken a back seat this time. Maybe it’s like, bad luck – the groom can’t see the bride before she walks down the aisle, right? Presumably the same applies here.

…Maybe Veronica shouldn’t compare this to a wedding. She might be moving a bit fast.

A hat gets placed on her head, then taken off just as quickly.

“I’m thinking a black top, not sure which top, though.” McNamara babbles, “Oh, and a blue skirt, but I can’t decide between the ruffles or the pleated one. A cardigan? Maybe a cardigan, it’s getting colder.”

“No hat?”

“No hat. It’ll be dark, anyway. You won’t have to keep the sun off your head, and that’s what hats are for, right?”

Why did she say ‘right’? Is she not sure?

“You’re kind of on edge, Heather. Is it a full moon thing? Should I be worried?”

“No. It’s just… Heather asked you out on a date!”

Well, she didn’t really ask, more demanded, but whatever. “So? She goes on loads of dates. Nothing new.”

“Well, yeah, but she doesn’t ask anyone. They all ask her. Everyone wants me, Heather,” McNamara does a passable imitation of Chandler’s sneering tone, “but I don’t want them. That means she must like you.”

It’s kind of weird to hear it from someone else. Given their relationship is hidden behind closet doors, when being a werewolf is less of a potential blow to your Westerburg status than being gay, the validation is scary and soothing at the same time.

Veronica supposes it’s nice to know Chandler’s serious about it. She wouldn’t take the risk with just anyone, right?

Right.

“You know what?” she says, “I’m thinking the ruffle skirt.”

 --

 Betty,

Thanks again for the help! I’m enclosing this guide with the care pack just so you know the deal. Flash and Duchess are usually well-behaved, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Flash is easy to take care of – just let her run around the backyard for a while to work off some energy, then she’ll calm right down. I’ve put her favorite toy in the pack. If she gets anxious, give it to her. It’ll help her feel safe.

Duchess is totally happy to follow you around, so long as you’re doing something she thinks is interesting. On that thought, make sure you close the doors to any room you don’t want her entering, she has a habit of going wherever she wants. She loves watching TV with me, so maybe put something on and see if she likes it. I’d suggest not inviting anyone over, since she tends to get upset with people she deems dangerous. You know that.

They’ve had an early dinner, so don’t worry about feeding them. I’ll pick them up around 10.

- V

 Betty returns the paper and the cash to the envelope, gaze drifting down to her charges. Flash watches her expectantly, while Duchess seems to be having a sulk. Maybe she’s mad Veronica left her here (Betty feels a twinge of disappointment at the thought).

Betty leans down. “Hey, sweetheart-” Duchess’ head snaps towards her- “It’s not all bad. I’m not as boring as everyone thinks. We can still have some fun, even if Veronica isn’t here.”

It’s kind of silly, talking to something that doesn’t understand logic, let alone human speech. Still, Betty knows Duchess is smart, and the big black dog gives Betty a look (almost like begrudging acceptance) before she snorts and wanders inside.

Betty needs to cheer her up. That’ll be her mission for tonight, she decides.

 -

 Veronica barely gets one foot inside Heather’s house before Chandler almost bowls her over. Heather at least has the decency to look regretful for a fraction of a second before she trots off to the kitchen.

“Hello to you too,” Veronica mutters before following.

In all honesty, she’s more than a little curious as to what Heather has planned. On any other day, Veronica would expect a trip to the movies or dinner at a fancy restaurant, but Veronica can’t get away with claiming Heather’s her seeing-eye dog (not that she hasn’t been tempted to try). It limits the usual options, but when Chandler’s faced with a roadblock, she’ll find another way to get what she wants.

On the kitchen bench so bleach-white it almost hurts to look at, there’s a sheet of paper and a chocolate cupcake. The candle placed perfectly in the center hasn’t been lit. Probably wise, Veronica thinks to herself – the other two options are a cake covered in wax or a blazing inferno.

Heather’s watching her intently, shifting from paw to paw. At least Veronica has an idea of what she wants; she removes the candle and takes a bite.

Oh. It has cherries in it. Rich, like she’d expect from Heather, but she has to admit it’s pretty damn good. Veronica gives Heather a thumbs-up, and a little bit of tension disappears from Heather’s eyes. Veronica takes another bite as she casts her eyes down to the paper, and she almost chokes on chocolate and her own laughter.

Of course Heather Chandler, of all people, would itemize their date.

 --

 Good news – Flash adores Fetch.

She hesitates, at first, but once Betty nods towards the stick, she’s off like a shot and back for more. Again and again and again, she runs and runs and runs until she flops at Betty’s feet, exhausted and happier than anything.

The bad news is that Duchess is not a fan. It’s almost like she wants to, but when Betty presents her with the stick she glares at it with such disdain that the wood almost catches fire under the heat of her gaze.

“Look,” Betty tells her, “you helped me out with Richie, so I want to do right by you. Can you give me a hint?”

Duchess thinks for a moment, then wanders back inside. Betty gives Flash a quick once-over (yep, still alive) before she goes to make sure Duchess won’t break anything.

She doesn’t. Honestly, Betty’s a little mad at herself for assuming her weirdly intelligent hero would wreck her house. Duchess doesn’t, of course – she’s trying her darndest to open the cupboard below the TV with her mouth. Oh, right. Veronica said something about movies in her letter, didn’t she?

Betty opens the door for Duchess and spreads out the cases.

“Which one?”

Duchess surveys them all with a derisive eye, before she places her paw on one case with the finality of a judge’s gavel.

Betty stares down at Duchess’ choice. “Really? That’s kind of a scary one.”

Duchess raises an eyebrow. How on earth…? Can dogs do that?

“…I did say it was your decision, didn’t I?” Betty says doubtfully. “Okay, we’ll watch it.”

She shouldn’t really believe Duchess know what she’s choosing, but if she wants to watch An American Werewolf in London…

 -

 It’s kind of a ride, going to a drive-through a few towns over, finding a park to have dinner (Chandler refuses to let Veronica eat in her Porsche), and then their last stop: The middle of nowhere.

At least Veronica knows where this place is. It’s the field, from the first night she acted as a wolf chauffeur. She might be imagining things, but it seems nicer than she remembers it. Lush, almost tranquil.

And the stars…

Sure, streetlamps are great and all, but you miss out on so much in the light. Out here, you see nothing, but everything.

Chandler is acting as her seeing-eye wolf, now that the car headlights are off (yeah, the moon’s out, but it’s still a little murky through Veronica’s inferior human eyes). Veronica has her hand on her back as Heather leads her to…

A seat? Since when has there been a seat out here? Did Heather do some guerilla landscaping?

Eh, whatever. There’s the clack of claw-on-wood as Heather climbs up on the bench, and Veronica eases down next to her.

“I thought you’d pick a place with more people for the grand finale. I mean, ideally my birthday’d be a different day, but even then, you could’ve done something this afternoon. Coming out here and stargazing, it’s too romantic for you.”

Chandler nips her ear, a gentle reprimand.

“Sorry, sorry. It’s just… you usually aren’t so sentimental.” A pause. “Thanks, by the way. It’s been a good birthday. More exciting than listening to my parents sing, not as overwhelming as a house party. You’re getting better at this balance thing.”

It’s weird, seeing a wolf looking smug. She seen it many times before, of course, the Heathers are prone to being smug. There’s something abut the way Heather puffs up that makes Veronica smile.

“Am I allowed to talk about the stars?” she asks. Heather licks the back of her hand, and she takes that as a ‘yes’. “Okay, so those really big one down there? That’s Sirius. The Dog Star.”

Chandler groans.

 --

 Flash isn’t watching the movie. She’s curled up on Betty’s bed with her yellow teddy, the rotting corpse of Jack chatting away like he isn’t horrific to behold proving too much for the sensitive soul.

Duchess isn’t even watching, really. Betty isn’t sure she should be on the couch with her, but that’s where she is, trying her best not to fall asleep.

“Mr. Bringsley… I’m sorry. I have absolutely no idea what to say to you.”

“You’ve left my wife a widow and my children fatherless. And, I understand, I am to walk the earth in limbo – one of the living dead – until the wolf’s bloodline is severed and the curse lifted. You must die, David Kessler.”

Betty’s surprised a dog could be so morbid in her movie choice.

Wait.

Is this a hint? Duchess is huge for a dog, almost human-size if she stood on her hind legs. Does this mean she killed people? What if Richie got lucky? Are her maybe-victims trapped in an unliving hell?

Duchess nuzzles closer to Betty’s shoulder, and soon all Betty can focus on is the sound of her soft snoring.

…No. Betty’s being silly again. Besides, Duchess sleeps too soundly for a killer.

She feels her own eyes begin to drift closed, as well, and decides not to fight it. She’s only barely aware of the conversations on the television, and it’s probably for the best. She needs some rest.

It’s almost eleven, after all.

 -

 There was one last thing Heather wanted to do – go back to her place. To her bedroom.

Obviously, nothing was gonna happen tonight. Heather just directed Veronica to her vanity, a fancy blue box presented like a work of art. Makes sense that Chandler would buy her something hideously expensive. That’s how her family shows affection, after all.

Veronica cautiously opens the box, and can’t help but let out a soft gasp.

It’s beautiful. Threads of sterling silver twisting around a deep blue sapphire, surrounded by shimmering diamonds. It’s delicate, but still bold. Perfect, and probably worth more than the house she lives in.

All she can say to Heather’s intent stare is “Oh my God”. Chandler shifts on her paws.

“No, no, it’s good, it’s good! It’s amazing! Thank you again. You’re- You’ve been so good.”

This is the right thing to say, apparently, because Heather honest-to-god wags her tail.

Veronica’s made it. Everybody go home, she’s reached the peak, she made Chandler drop her guard.

“And you picked this by yourself?” Heather bows her head in an attempt to nod. “I’m surprised you didn’t buy a matching one. Maybe that’s what I can get you for your birthday. Like a collar, or something.”

Yeah, that didn’t come out like it should have. She meant something that can make Heather feel pretty regardless of how many legs she has, but even Veronica can see where she went wrong with that one. Heather probably can too, if the blood rushing to Veronica’s face is any sign.

“I mean – well, I didn’t mean, actually – I’m not suggesting anything you don’t wanna do, uh-”

Heather puts a paw on Veronica’s foot. Veronica isn’t sure what that means, but Chandler rolls her eyes and hops up onto the bed, looking at her as if beckoning.

Okay. So she forgives her for that faux-pas (not that she knows any other werewolves to clarify if it is). Veronica will take what she can get. She strips off her outer layers and climbs into bed next to Heather, pulling the blanket over them both.

Is she forgetting something?

 --

 It’s a beautiful morning. Betty doesn’t even need to open her eyes to know that. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, she’s safe and warm under a blanket and the sizzle and smell of a cooked breakfast wafts under her nostrils.

She moves under the blanket, straining to get up, but a weight and a groan stops that before it really gets started. Oh, right, she was dogsitting for Veronica. She gives Duchess a scratch behind the ear, and smiles to herself when Duchess leans into the touch.

…Hold on.

She didn’t have a blanket when she went to sleep. Someone’s in her kitchen.

There’s no-one else in the house.

She whips the blanket off, and a decidedly human voice on top of her shrieks.

“Pancakes!” How did Heather McNamara – oh no, “No one is allowed to be upset when there’s pancakes!”

[metanoeo-hos]

LOCKDOWN - THE 2020 PANDEMIC

#5 The Brother

Skylar closed her laptop and stared out into the horizon. It was a beautiful cloudy day and her view from the balcony was glorious beyond words. The ocean looked perfect, too perfect for her to stay indoors.

Ten minutes later she was jogging at a good pace along the beachfront and appreciating every minute of it. Life had been hard, so hard. After her breakthrough Skylar had promised herself that never would she take anything for granted.

Deep in thought she did not see a vicious dog running towards her at top speed while the owner tried in vain to catch up to it or get it to stop. She was jogging so close along the shore that when the big hound leapt ontop of her full force they both were airborne for a moment before breaking their fall in the salty water. The ocean now also wanting to be a part of this sent the next force of crashed wave straight at them causing both Skylar and the hound to keep rolling where the ocean meets the shoreline.

Moments later Skylar was sitting on the sea sand throwing a stick for the dog to fetch, she and the owner both laughing at his enthusiasm. His name was Brad and his dog a husky he had named Lokhi. After helping Skylar out the water Brad had apologized profusely for everything. Skylar had just laughed through it all too embarrassed to say anything. They sat there for a long while just chatting when Skylar eventually stood up and told him she had better head back.

"How far are you parked from here?" Brad asked

"Parked? Oh no, I jogged all the way here. I'm about 4km's back that way", she pointed.

"Geez lady, what are you running from?", he chuckled. "At least let me drive you back, it's the least I could do".

Skylar finally agreed that he could call her an Uber. They had to walk to where Brad's double cab was parked to get his phone. Brad also took down Skylar's number after she agreed that they could meet for drinks later that evening. Everything went so well and moved along so quickly that the next morning Skylar woke up in Brad's bed. She looked over and he was still fast asleep. Damn he is even more handsome when asleep she thought. Nature was calling and she needed to use the bathroom.

When she made her way back into the room Brad was awake and sitting up.

"Oh! You are still here?", He gave her a puzzled look.

"Goodmorning to you too", Skylar smiled not making anything of his reaction towards her.

"Do you need me to call you an Uber?", Brad responded clearly ignoring her greeting.

"Wait!" Skylar stopped him, "Are you trying to get rid of me or just blatantly throwing me out?" She stared at him anger now rising in her very core.

"No, need to get your pretty knickers in a knot sweetie. All good things have to end sometime don't you agree?"

Skylar started to put on her cropped top hoodie and matching jeggings then her sneakers. She loved how sports gear had so sexily evolved into a fashion of it's own and could be worn even as smart casual. Most ladies opted for heels but that wasn't her thing ever.

"It's fine, I'll call the Uber myself. You've done more than enough" Skylar told him sarcastically trying not to show him how taken aback or hurt she was.

When Skylar stepped out the sun was starting to peep in the distance. She took her phone out of her sling backpack to call up the Uber but then changed her mind and went into Google Maps instead. It would take her 7km's to jog back to her apartment. If she jogged along the beachfront it would take her 9.7km's. Half the distance to get to the beachfront and the other half to get to the safety of her apartment. Seemed like a better option as at some point she could take off her sneakers and jog barefoot in the sand. There was no ways she could do 7km on solid ground in these sneakers, her feet wouldn't be able to handle it.

Once Skylar started to jog along the coastline she was glad for her decision not to take the Uber. All her hurt and anger was being burnt out bit by bit in the best way possible. The one time she decides to just go with the flow and be spontaneous and not overthink stuff look what happens. I get hit by a cannonball. Fairytales were never ever written for me ever she thought angrily to herself.

The more she jogged the more she wondered if she had chosen the right direction when arriving at the beach. Nothing was looking familiar at all and she was starting to get really thirsty. In the far distance she noticed a 4×4 parked on the coastline and a few people near it. Must be the coast guards she thought, why else would they park so close to the water and so early in the morning. This wasn't a fishing spot as the erected signs had been clear along the way.

She was just about to jog faster towards them to enquire about directions when she noticed they seemed to be carrying what looked like body bags. Three people trying to carry one body bag. Adrenaline kicked in as Skylar in shocked panic ran towards the nearest bush instead. The trees becoming her only hope for escape from what she had just witnessed. Did they see her she wondered. Their voices seemed to be frighteningly close all of a sudden. Skylar crouched low behind a tree trying to quieten her breathing at the same time her heart was pounding against her chest.

Their voices got closer then she heard the 4x4 approaching. She heard Brad asking in a loud voice whether they had found anything. The others replied nothing yet but the one guy was still adamant he had seen someone jogging. The others teased him and then the 4x4 drove away. Skylar stayed crouched against the tree for what seemed like hours too afraid to move, utterly broken emotionally. The realization that she had seen Brad's 4x4 and heard his voice had left her frozen to the spot long after their departure.

Eventually she stood up and just started running through the bush until she came to a clearing that opened up to the road. She ran out of the bush at such a high speed, full force into someone jogging along the road. They both fell hard in opposite directions. Skylar scrambled to her feet, her leg or hip was hurt but she still forced herself to try run.

She felt these big arms wrap themselves around her forcing her to stop. She tried to kick but her efforts were futile.

"Hey, hey, hey Missy, you need to calm down. Can you RELAX!" The male voice demanded. Completely overpowered yet still scared shitless Skylar slid down until her knees touched the ground. The throbbing pain on her leg and hip becoming completely evident.

Three weeks later Skylar was sitting on her balcony and laughing hard at a joke Liam had just made. Liam had been visiting her everyday since her ordeal that dreaded morning. He was a paramedic and also worked part time for the coast guard. He had told her the ocean helped him de-stress and take his mind off the traumas of being a paramedic. Skylar had filled him in on what she had seen that morning and after a day they had found the two bodies. The perpetrators were still at large as Skylar had not mentioned Brad at all.

Turned out she had been running in the wrong direction and when she had ran into Liam she was 20km away from her apartment. He had tried to ask her about that but she had just changed the subject. Last thing she needed was to give him her embarrassing version of her encounter with Brad, he was history and if she ever saw him again it would be too soon.

"Did you listen to the news this morning?" Liam asked her.

"Yes, and later tonight the president will be addressing the nation. Do you think our country will also go on lockdown?"

"Unless we want this country to end up like China or Italy our president has no choice. We are definitely going on lockdown its commen knowledge at the hospitals the government just needs to make it official"

Skylar watched him as he spoke. He was so eloquent and relaxed and never hesitated to explain everything to her in detail. They had started spending alot of time together thanks to his efforts, she still kept her distance. What was it Brad had told her, all good things had to end sometime.

"Skylar you know once lockdown is implemented I won't be able to visit you anymore or my family. I'm not sure where my duties as a paramedic or coast guard will lie but every day I will have to go back to my lifeless apartment",

She wondered where Liam was going with this but it wasn't long into the conversation when he had made his intentions clear. He had very strong feelings for her and wanted her to stay with him during the lockdown. Skylar had refused there was no ways. Liam seemed hurt but eventually accepted her response.

Ten days into the lockdown Skylar had enough and finally decided to take Liam up on his offer. She couldn't jog let alone take a walk on the beach. She missed him and she was terribly lonely. After she had told him that she had changed her mind Liam had rocked up at her place with an ambulance so as not to get stopped by the police or army and feeling like naughty kids they had loaded her luggage and made their way back to his apartment.

A week later she was in Liam's kitchen busy preparing a big lunch and baking. Liam was out to pick up the ambulance and then fetch his older brother Lee from his place so Lee could spend the weekend with them. Turns out Lee's dog had died a few days ago and he wasn't in a good space and needed to get out from his place for a bit. Skylar was busy removing the hot muffin tray from the oven when she heard the brothers walk-in.

As they stepped into the kitchen Liam announced very cheerfully.

"Hey Babe, meet my big brother Bradley we all call him Lee... "

Skylar looked up straight into Brad's face and dropped the muffin tray and all 12 hot muffins...

TO BE CONTINUED...

Written by Chantelle Jerel

Lockdown in South Africa

13 April 2020

Rough draft, includes all errors🗒🖋❌ #shortstories

#Coronavirus

#lockdown

#2020

#isolationcreation

#thepandemic

#freelance

#freelancewriter

#creativewriter

#contentwriter

#writinglife

#fiction

#writerscommunity

#critics #welcome

#thebrother

#writersofinstagram

#tobecontinued🔜❤️😛💪

[theultraknight]

The Guard Chapter 6 Beast saga Part 2: A day in the sun

Amore wakes up, in a bright mood as usual. She quickly gets ready, throws on her pink shirt, skirt, converses, and down the stairs she goes.

"We need to move." Her mom says. "What?" Amore responds stunned.

"Do you see this?" Mom says, referring to the T.V.. Which shows cellphone footage of the dragon from yesterday and, the headline. WHEN DRAGONS ATTACK.

"This place isn't safe anymore, we need to go." Amore's mom said.

"Don't you think you're getting ahead of yourself, we don't even if that's real." Amore's​ dad says.

"How do you fake a dragon attacking the city, with tons of eyewitnesses, and, camera footage, and people going to the hospital, for first and second degree burns."

"You were up all night researching this, won't you?" He said, giving her a look. "That's not the point." She defended.

He lovely takes her face in his hands. "Honey I get you're scared, but I'm not moving, no matter what, you know how much this house, this land means to me, I'm not leaving, not even for a dragon, but I promise you I will protect this family with everything I have, okay?"

"I trust you will protect us, but you're crazy if you think I'm gonna stop, trying to convince you to leave."

"You wouldn't be you, if you did." He says, and kisses her.

Amore smiles at her parents. No matter the argument, it was obvious how in love they are.

Amore then realizes she needs to get going, so she grabs a pop tart. and walks to the front door. "Good morning, bye."

"Where are you going?" Her mother asks.

"Caesar promised to give me and Dillon a tour around town."

"You already know the town." Her mom says.

"Not really, the few times I left, I didn't see much."

"I still don't trust those boys." Her mom confesses.

"Their good guys, once you get to know them, you'll see that, and besides if you didn't trust them at all, you wouldn't let me go anywhere near them." Amore retorts. "I got to go before I'm late, bye love you." She blows a kiss to her parents.

"Bye honey, have a good time." "Love you, be safe." Her dad and mom says, as she walks out of the door.

Elsewhere Caesar lays on his bed reading a book, when his phone goes off. He picks it up, and sees the calendar alert. Show Amore and Dillon around.

Caesar brings his hand to his head, taking a deep sigh. He can't believe, he forgot about this. Well his book will have to wait.

Amore arrives at the park, and sees Dillon waiting at the benches. Amore waves. "Hey."

Dillon waves back. "Hey stranger, longtime no see."

"We saw each other yesterday."

"I consider that a long time." He says, making her grin.

She looks for Caesar, but no sight of him. "Have you heard from Caesar today?" She asks Dillon. "No."

Next thing you know Caesar appears, running at full speed. And once meeting them, makes a sharp halt. Panting he says. "Sorry I'm late."

"No worry, you're only late by a minute." Amore assures him.

"So where are we going?" Caesar asked, taking small breaths.

"You're the one who's supposed to be showing us around." Dillon pointed out.

"Right." Caesar said remembering that. "Um, why don't we walk around the park for a little bit?"

Amore and Dillon nod. And they all start walking.

As they do Amore gets a good look at the park. She sees a fluffy white dog bring a bone to its' owner. "Good girl, now fetch." The young woman says, tossing the bone. The dog racing off after it.

Amore looks over a couple playing peek-a-boo with a baby. Who clapping his hands, and laughs.

She sees a group of people sitting at a picnic table, eating, and talking.

This is all feels surreal to Amore, to just walk about, surrounded by people. But it's also makes her smile.

Dillon's stomach suddenly roars, and as if on cue. The sound of an ice cream truck can be heard in the distance.

Dillon runs off after the sound. Amore and Caesar run after him. Which is something they're used to by now.

"Isn't it a little early for ice cream?" Amore asked.

"Not when you were running late, so you skipped breakfast." Dillon replies.

They meet the truck right, as it enters the park. The driver opens his window. "You're my first customers of the day now, what can I get you?" He said with his best as buy much ice cream as you can smile.😀

"I'll take a triple scoop strawberry, peanut butter and fudge." Dillon says.

"Mint chocolate chip." Caesar answered.

Amore looks at all the pictures on the side of the truck. Until she finds the perfect one. "That one." She points to the chocolate bunny on a stick.

"Okay here, here, and here." The man quickly handed out their orders.

Once each one had their treat, Amore realizes something. "I don't have any money on me."

"I got it, I'm the tour guide I pay." Caesar hands the man a dollar bill, and gets his change, and they go on their way.

Amore bites into her ice cream bunny. "This is amazing." She says in utter delight.

"You've never had one of those before?" Dillon asked her. She shakes her head. "No."

She then notices a swing set behind him and, walks over to it. "Please tell me you've been on swings before." Dillon said.

"Can you have this?" Amore asked Dillon handing him, her bunny, before he can respond. He takes it, and she takes a sit on a swing.

She starts to rock back and forth. "Hey Caesar, could you give me a push?" She asks.

He goes, and sits on the swing beside her. "I can do you one better now, grab the chains, take a few steps back." He does it while saying it, and she copies.

"Now lift your legs up." They both catapulted into the air.

And as Amore swings, a feeling of exhilaration fills her. To most something so mundane wouldn't be so exciting, but to someone who's never experienced it before it's a thrill.

After a few minutes of swinging Amore gets up, to finish her ice cream. "Dillon where's my ice cream?" She asked looking at his empty hands.

"It was gonna melt." He tells her. "You ate it?" Amore asked.

"I couldn't waste perfectly good ice cream." Amore shoots him a look which can best translated, as really.

Back at the swings. Caesar snatches his hands from the burning hot swing chains. As he gets up, he feels the sun's searing rays on his skin. This is strange he thinks, as it wasn't this hot mere seconds ago.

"Okay how about I make it up to you, by getting you something at the diner?" Dillon suggests to Amore.

The sun becomes brighter and, the heat intensifies. "Hey guys, I think something's wrong." Caesar tells them.

"Why?" Amore asks.

"Didn't you feel how it went from pleasant to scorching in a couple seconds?"

"The weather is weird like that sometimes." Dillon said.

Caesar looks to the sky, and blinded by the severely bright sun. Though he can see a large silhouette. A loud caw rings out. Then flapping sound starts.

Caesar, Amore and Dillon look up, to the shadow moving across the sky. When it descends down, landing with a flap.

What sits before them, is a beautiful giant bird, its' outermost feathers yellow, while the rest are a mix of blues, green, red, purple and, orange.

The sight of the creature sends citizens fleeing, from the park.

"What is that?" Amore asked.

"I don't know, but I'm guessing it's friend, with our scaly friend from yesterday." Caesar hypothesised.

The bird opens its' mouth, eyes glowing with light, and fires a sunbeam at our heroes.

They jump out the way, landing on the ground. They pick themselves up, and immediately run for cover. Finding refuge behind thick pine trees. And with one word, they ready for battle. "Guard."

The avian creature fires off another sunbeam, to the left of the tree Dillon is hiding behind.

Dillon sees the beam move right inching closer to him. So when it's about to hit, he sprouts wings, and enters sky.

The beam of light strikes the tree. Cutting through it like a hot knife. Sending all, but the base tumbling down.

Dillon feeling there's no time to waste, charges forward fists first with the strength of a gorilla. When he gets in a couple feet of the bird. The creature fires a sunbeam, hitting Dillon straight on. Sending him flying back.

"Dillon!" His comrades yell. As he lays on the ground, dazes, and armor smoking.

Caesar comes up with a plan, hoping it will work. Summons his shield and sword.

He tosses his shield in the air. The bird takes the bait, and fires a shot at it.

While it's preoccupied, Caesar was making a sneak attack with his sword. As he makes his move. The bird turns its' head to him, and fires.

Caesar holding his sword with both hands, cuts through the sunbeam. Splitting it in two beams, that lands on either side of him.

The next thing he sees is a feathery tail coming at him. It hits him in the abdomen and, sending him flying yards.

The bird walks forward, get closer to the tree Amore's hiding behind. Amore's nerves go into overdrive. Her fight or flight instinct kicks in, and she chooses, flight.

She zooms off. The bird sees her, and shoots, but she dodges. She's doesn't really have a plan except bide time to make one, and don't get caught.

Her feathered enemy lets off shot after shot. But she evades everyone. She makes a sharp u-turn, barely escaping the last beam. And as she comes around, she gets a good look at the bird. Noticing a glowing M symbol on its' back.

The next thing she sees is a sunbeam then Wham! She falls to the ground.

The fall painful though, she's grateful, she enveloped herself in a shield, the moment she saw the sunbeam.

As she tries to pick herself up, the bird stalks closer.

Her male cohorts pulls themselves up, trying to come to her aid.

Amore finally takes to her feet, as the bird steps right in front of her. When fire strikes the creature, making it cry out.

Amore looks to the perpetrator, the dragon. She looks to her left, and in the distance there's a girl. Before Amore can call out to her, she is called.

"Amore." Caesar and Dillon run up to her.

"Are you guys alright?" She asked them.

"For two guys who got the snot beat out of them, yeah." Dillon remarked.

"Where did that come from?" Caesar asked watching the dragon.

"And why are they fighting?" Amore added.

"Does it matter, I mean as long, as they take each other out?" Dillon said.

"That's if they take each other out." Caesar says.

The bird is losing to the dragon. Its' feathers are burnt and, falling out. As it lies on the ground, the dragon stomp its' foot on top of the bird's wing.

The dragon moves its' mouth to the bird's​ face, and as the reptile's mouth opens. The bird strikes it in the face with its' tail.

Dragon stumbles back, releasing bird from its' foot. Bird soars high into the sky, getting as close to the sun as possible.

Its' sheds its' burnt feathers, and in their place, grows brighter, and more beautiful feathers. Its' body shines like a star, and eyes fume light.

It then moves so fast it, becomes a streak of yellow across the blue sky.

It races over to dragon, and once they're face to face. Unleashes an unrelenting torrent of energy.

Dragon roars, unable to defend itself. And once bird's attack ends. Dragon lays lifeless and defeated.

"Anybody got any ideas, how we stop that thing now?" Caesar asks.

"I saw something on its' back earlier, I think it might be a spell, maybe breaking will stop it." Amore suggests.

"Worth a shot." Caesar says.

The girl Amore noticed earlier, starts running to dragon. "Who is she?" Caesar asks.

"I don't know, after the dragon showed up, she just appeared." Amore explained.

"We need to stop her, before big bird sees her." Dillon said, and takes off like a cheetah.

That's when green sparkles appear and merge together. "I'm sorry I didn't get here sooner my children."

"Amore fill her in, I'm gonna help Dillon." And Caesar jets off after Dillon.

"Mother Earth that bird has a spell symbol on it, how I do I break it?" Amore asked her.

"You three must combine your powers, look at the symbol, imagine it breaking, and it will."

Dillon has already reached the mystery girl.

"Move." She demands.

"You need to get out of here before, you get hurt."

"He needs my help."

"It's a dragon it'll be fine you, won't." He reasoned.

Then the blast hit. Dillon and the mystery girl's hearts skip a beat. Looking at the energy wall in front of them, keeping the bird's sunbeam at bay.

"Come on, I can't hold this wall together for long." Caesar said.

Dillon and mystery girl begin to run. The second later bird's​ beam wins, and Caesar's wall crumbles. Bird turns its' sights on the running Dillon and mystery girl. It takes a step then takes a... Nothing.

Mother Earth holds her hand out, emanating​ magic, shines like a green star. "Children now's your chance."

The three fly over to bird, landing on its' back. "What now?" Dillon asks.

"Mother Earth said we picture it breaking and it'll happen." Amore said.

Each places a hand around of the glowing symbol, forming a triangle. Amore's hand in front, Dillon in​ front on the left and Caesar's​ the bottom right.

Each one focuses their mind on the symbol. A warmth builds in their hands, and begins to illuminate and, magic flows out. One word appears in their heads. In unison they utter. "Spellbreak."

The magic they hold turns spiky. Connecting with strands of magic. Cracks spreading through the symbol, and once they touch it shatters like glass, and fades away.

Our heroes look at each other, with smiles on their faces. Sharing a high five. They climb off bird, and head back to Mother Earth and mystery girl. "Is it broken?" The former asks.

"Yes ma'am." Dillon says with an army salute. So Mother Earth releases bird from her hold.

Bird darts its' head all about, taking in its' surroundings. Then starts walking towards everyone. Causing Caesar and Dillon, to stand in defensive position.

Bird lays its' head down, in front of them. So Amore bends down, and reaches over.

"Amore be careful." Caesar warns.

"It doesn't want to hurt me, I don't think it ever did." She brings her hand to its' head, and pets it. It hums in response.

"I agree with Amore, someone was using that spell to control this phoenix." Mother Earth said.

Caesar's eyes widen. "Wait, this is a phoenix?"

"Yes, it is a beast, just like the dragon." Mother Earth explains.

"Okay, but where did they come from?" Dillon asked. "That I still do not know but, I went to the temple and, when I did I found an empty tomb."

"How, Medusa should be asleep?" Caesar asked.

"It was not Medusa's tomb that was open, there is another room in the temple, in it lies the tomb of Apep."

Caesar speaks up. "So now we have a mythical fifty foot snake on the loose?"

Mother Earth sets the record straight. "He's not just a snake, he's a man, a very dangerous one."

"Guys." Dillon points to dragon. A bright red pool of magic is swirling around him.

Mystery girl runs to dragon, the others follow behind. She kneels beside dragon, as the magic seeps from his body.

Which entirely becomes blinding red, and everyone looks away.

When they turn back, they lay eyes on dragon, well a baby dragon. "He shrunk." Dillon said.

Mother Earth countered. "No he turned back to his true form, it's been so long since I have seen a dragon, I forgot they can vastly increase their size."

That moment a yellow pool appears, then a flash of light. And what was a creature the size of a one story building becomes, the size of a dog.

"And phoenixes too." Mother Earth added.

Dragon looks up to mystery girl staring at her for a moment, before walking to her, and nuzzling her leg. "I'm glad to see you too." She grins.

Dillon and Caesar ask the burning questions. "Who are you?" "And how did end with the dragon?"

"Who are you?" She asked back. "The good guys now, answer the question." Dillon told her.

Amore tries to explain things a little better. "We're the guard, we're here to help, and we can do that better, if we know what your part in this is."

"I don't have a part, or at least I didn't till well, it started yesterday...

To be continued...

© 2017 theultraknight

[adapted-batteries]

Day 7: Free Day

Finally, here’s that fic I’ve been talking about for the past week or so.

“Dooooggg Boooiii”

Fandom: The Librarians

Rating: General audiences/sfw, a little language in one bit

Ships: Jazekiel, mention of Fleve

Word count: 5339

also posted on my Ao3 

Summary: Ezekiel struggles with lingering effects after being cured of his lycanthropy, and Stone offers to help. Set after episode 2 of season 3 “And the Fangs of Death.”

_____

It’s been about a month since the whole “werewolf” ordeal. Of course there was teasing when the full moon came around a couple weeks after that mission, mostly from Stone, but it’s not like Ezekiel went full dog or anything. Maybe he had been a bit irritable, but the wolfsbane tea had cured him, like it was supposed to, well mostly anyway.

There were some impulses that lingered, like weird desires for belly rubs or ear scratches (not that he asked anyone to do that). He collected sticks that one time they were in the forest, and didn’t realize it until they got back, dumping them all out of his backpack onto the table in the Annex. Perhaps it was a bit unnecessary for him to dive into that mud puddle when they got attacked by actual ninjas in Beijing, and weirdly enough he didn’t want to shower right away. That stupid blue rubber ball Stone had became the bane of his existence; his focus would zero in on it, and he’d actually chase it if Stone threw it, though Jenkins banned him from doing that in the Annex when he broke a light.

Of course that didn’t stop Stone from taking that damn ball on missions. Thankfully he didn’t bring it out while they were working, but Stone had his fun afterwards. After the last mission, Stone brought out the rubber ball when they went to a bar, right as Ezekiel attempted to hit up a girl, keeping it low enough in his lap that she couldn’t see, but Ezekiel could. The girl probably thought he was wasted by his sudden distraction and walked away, either disgusted or suddenly uninterested.

“Dude, that was not cool,” Ezekiel hissed. Stone was clearly drunk enough that he was ignoring personal boundaries.

“It’s still there?” Stone said, mildly shocked that it worked.

“Yeah it’s still there, it’s not gone away and it’s been at least a month now,” Ezekiel snapped. “The least you could do is lay off. It’s annoying.”

Stone looked down at his drink, like a kid scolded by a parent. “S...sorry, I didn't mean...it was just a joke,” he stammered, ears going red in embarrassment.

Ezekiel hadn’t drank as much as Stone had, but he was still a little buzzed. Now all he could think about was the werewolf incident. “Do you think the wolfsbane didn’t work?” he suddenly asked Stone.

The drunk man’s head snapped up. “Well...uh...I don’t know, actually. We could go ask Jenkins?”

“Yeah, let’s go ask him,” Ezekiel decided, getting up from his barstool and dragging Stone by the arm to the exit.

    Fortunately, Jenkins was still up, reading something at a desk. He merely looked up over his reading glasses when the two somewhat clumsily entered.

“Late night history or magic question?” he asked dryly. “Or maybe you didn’t want me to have one peaceful night to myself.”

“Uh actually, yes, magic question,” Ezekiel responded, ignoring the sarcasm.

Jenkins sat up, not expecting them to answer seriously. “Well then...what is it?”

“Is it possible that my werewolf-ness won’t completely go away?” Ezekiel asked. Jenkins sighed, closed the book, and stood up, walking towards the main table constantly littered with historical documents.

“For some people, the wolfsbane doesn’t eradicate the lycanthropy completely,” the immortal knight said as he thumbed through some old manuscript.

“But you said it was a cure,” Ezekiel countered.

“Well, it mostly is. It will keep you from completely turning, and you can’t infect anyone via biting either. It made your lycanthropy inert, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely gone,” Jenkins clarified. “It will take time for your body to revert back to your human self, especially where it affects your neural tissue.”

    “So he’s stuck with dog brain?” Stone snorted, seemingly forgetting the bar incident until Ezekiel glared at him.

Jenkins just rolled his eyes, uninterested in the petty teasing. “In theory, you can drink more wolfsbane, with some other things, but I gave you the most your body could handle initially. If that didn’t get rid of most of the lycanthropy, there’s not too much else that will.”

At first Ezekiel thought that “time” meant a few weeks, maybe another month, but after two months, it was still there. He could control it more now, not give in to the impulses so much, but that ball still got to him. Stone didn't bring it out much anymore, which was nice, until he did again.

They were doing their various studying in the Annex for a new mission the clipping book sent them on (fair folk showing up around an Irish university, causing issues and occasionally taking people). Ezekiel lounged at one of the desks, feet up, searching through old blueprints and local geographical maps. Stone leaned over an old leather-bound book at the main table, absorbing folklore, and Flynn was upstairs doing the same thing. The girls had gone to do reconnaissance in the town nearby, and Jenkins was in his lab, working on some protection charms.

By pure luck, Ezekiel looked up the exact moment Stone pulled the ball out from under some papers, apparently a subconscious act since he still seemed totally absorbed in the reading. All thought flew to the back of Ezekiel's mind as Stone squeezed and rolled it around on the desk, not realizing the torture Ezekiel felt. No, focus, he chided himself, to no avail. He fought himself for several minutes until the worst thing happened: he whined. That finally startled Stone from the book, especially as Ezekiel shot up from his desk, hand still over his mouth, running through the double doors.

Stone looked up to the balcony; Flynn must've been somewhere against the back wall oblivious to Ezekiel’s speedy exit. He then looked around the Annex, at the desk, trying to figure out what made Ezekiel leave, a question easily answered as soon as he looked down at his right hand. “Shit,” he mumbled, stuffing it in his pocket as he stood up, chasing after Ezekiel.

Once outside the Annex, Stone saw him running up into the park across the street. Stone stayed back, giving him space, calmly walking up to the bridge pillar he had went behind. Ezekiel sat against it, elbows on his knees, head in his hands.

“You alright?” Stone asked softly.

Ezekiel didn't look up. “Do I look alright to you?”

Without answering, Stone sat down next to him, waiting until Ezekiel looked up. He then took out the ball, studying it like it was a specimen. “How do you feel when you see this? Before your annoyance at your reaction, what do you first feel?”

“I feel, well, excited, focused, I forget what I’m thinking about,” Ezekiel answered, breathing uneasily as he looked at the ball. Stone then put it back in his pocket; Ezekiel slumped forward, hugging his knees. “It’s so hard to keep it all at bay. You don’t know how much I want to do “dog things” all the time, it’s unbearable.”

“I didn’t know it was still affecting you so bad still,” Stone responded. “I didn't even realize I had the ball out until you left.”

Ezekiel glanced back at him, judging how sincere Stone seemed, before looking towards some trees. “It’s not like you could do anything about it.”

“That doesn’t mean I didn't want to know. Maybe we can find something,” Stone countered.

“If Jenkins couldn’t, how could we?” Ezekiel sighed in defeat.

“Well that’s a stupid question,” Stone snorted, prompting Ezekiel to look at him.

“I...I know,” Ezekiel said, too lazy to keep the pain off his face.

“Look. If you need somewhere to cool off, I’m sure there’s something the Library can do. You don’t have to suffer alone,” Stone suggested. He looked pretty serious about helping Ezekiel.

“You sound like some counselor,” Ezekiel laughed bitterly.

“That’s apparently what you need right now,” Stone quipped, raising his eyebrows.

“No I-” Ezekiel stopped himself from shutting off again. “Well I guess I do.”

“And if you need someone to throw the ball, well, I wouldn't mind obliging,” Stone added, cracking a smile.

Ezekiel gave a small smile back “Just don't let Jenkins catch you or he'll kick you out of the Annex,” Ezekiel cautioned jokingly.

Stone chuckled, then went serious again. “What all does “dog things” entail?”

“Uh, well, the fetch thing is pretty obvious,” he started, suddenly embarrassed.

“And?” Stone prodded.

“Um, there's, uh, an annoying desire to be petted,” Ezekiel continued. Stone raised his eyebrows again, biting back a smile. “God, this is stupid. I shouldn't have said anythi-”

“No, it's not!” Stone cut him off. Ezekiel looked at him, confused. “I mean I'd…” he trailed off.

“What, you'd pet me?” Ezekiel scoffed, thinking Stone was pulling his leg for another laugh. That is, until he really saw the sincerity, and the blush, on Stone’s face. “You're...actually serious?”

“Forget it,” Stone said, flustered. He started to stand up but Ezekiel grabbed his arm.

“No, don't leave,” Ezekiel said as he pulled him back down. He didn't have to pull much, Stone seemed eager to stay. “Can I take you up on that offer?”

“You really want me to?” Stone asked, watching him.

“Well you're still here, aren't you?” Ezekiel answered. That earned a smile from Stone.

“So, um, how do you want to do this?” Stone questioned.

“Head first, no belly rubs or anything, it's too soon for that,” Ezekiel chuckled nervously. Stone laughed under his breath and nodded.

After a few seconds of silence, Stone hesitantly reached up to Ezekiel's head, watching him intently. Ezekiel tried his best not to seem so eager, but quickly found himself leaning into Stone’s hand as it ran through his hair. “Is that good?” Stone asked him.

“Mhmmm,” Ezekiel breathed, eyes fluttering closed. Stone failed at biting back a laugh. “Hey, don’t mock me, or you don’t get to do this again.”

“I’m not,” Stone paused, sighing before continuing, “it’s...you’re really cute right now.”

Ezekiel opened his eyes, mouth slightly open. “I...didn’t know you felt that way,” he muttered, suddenly looking away.

“You didn’t? Really?” Stone said in disbelief. “Didn’t notice I basically went out of my way to touch you?” He nodded to his hand still in Ezekiel's hair to emphasize his point.

“I thought that was just you,” Ezekiel countered. “And the whole teasing for months, that really threw me off.” Stone was about to say something, but Ezekiel continued. “I guess you were the first to take care of me after I got bit.”

Stone chuckled. “It's been longer than months.” He moved his hand from the back of Ezekiel's head to behind his ear.

“Oh,” was all Ezekiel could manage before a smile appeared on his face, eyes half closed.

“If I'd known earlier, I would've jumped at the chance to do this,” Stone hummed, clearly enjoying himself just as much as Ezekiel was.

“Should've asked instead of teasing me then, hm?” Ezekiel quipped, a smug look on his face.

“I'm sorry, alright?” Stone spread his hand out so he could get both behind Ezekiel’s ear and the back of his neck. “Does this make up for it?”

“Ah, yeah, mostly,” he stuttered, melting under Stone's hand, eyes closing again.

“Mostly?” Stone questioned, eyebrow arched.

“One time isn't gonna cut it,” Ezekiel responded, opening one eye to look at Stone. “Not after months of torture.”

“Fair enough,” Stone said.

“Stone?! Jones?!” a voice called from the entrance to the Annex, Flynn. “I heard footsteps leaving a bit ago. The girls are back, time to go over things.”

Ezekiel’s eyes shot open, panic on his face. “Hey, it’s fine,” Stone soothed, giving him one last scratch behind the ear. “It’s not like he knows why we left.” With a smile he stood up, offering a hand to Ezekiel.

“Don’t tell anyone, ok?” Ezekiel said, trying his best to compose himself once he was on his feet. He didn’t let go of Stone’s hand, though, and Stone didn’t drop his either.

Stone smiled, shaking his head. “I would never.” Turning around partially so his voice would carry back to Flynn, Stone responded, “We’re coming!” He then turned back to Ezekiel, biting his lip like he was thinking about something.

“We should head back,” Ezekiel said, trying to get Stone to move. Not that he didn’t want to spend the rest of the day out here with him, but Stone’s look dripped affection, and he didn’t think he could last long under it.

“Yeah, but before we go,” Stone started, a corner of his mouth curling up like he had a surprise. He looked around before locking eyes with Ezekiel again, closing the already small space between them. Ezekiel watched him with almost nervous anticipation, watching Stone’s eyes dip to his lips then back up to make eye contact, asking a silent question.

Ezekiel had already been way more vulnerable today than he preferred, but he’d be lying to himself if he said he hadn’t wanted to kiss the cowboy ever since he met him, so Ezekiel answered Stone with his own lips. Sadly they didn’t get long as Flynn called for them again. “Guys?!?”

Stone pulled away, albeit reluctantly. “Probably should go now,” he said, voice lower than it had been before. He chuckled at the slightly dazed look on Ezekiel’s face. Ezekiel nodded, still not letting go of his hand, so Stone turned, pulling Ezekiel with him. When Flynn was in view, marching up the slight hill to find them, Ezekiel dropped their hands. Stone glanced at him, giving a sympathetic look, before replying to Flynn. “We were coming, alright? No need to hunt us down.”

“You were sure taking your time about it,” Flynn quipped, looking at both of them. Ezekiel tensed, thinking Flynn was going to say something, but thankfully Flynn added, “Cassandra found some runes running all throughout the town, over doors and on foundations.” He was already turned back around, walking down the hill to the Annex. “As you know, the town existed centuries before the university did, and didn’t incorporate the protection runes, leaving the campus open to the fey.”

“So we have a reverse Wexler situation?” Ezekiel asked, trying to sound casual.

Flynn turned looked behind himself at Ezekiel, brain processing the analogy. “Um, yeah, in a way,” Flynn responded, looking forward again as they crossed the empty street. “A little more complicated though, and not Lovecraftian.”

Once inside, the team devised a plan, gathered supplies, and used the backdoor early the next day. Ezekiel acted like nothing happened the day before, but he noticed Stone watched him more than usual. Thankfully the plan went relatively well, safety runes in place around the campus, and some bargains were made for people who got stuck in the fey.

When they got back to the Annex, it was only two in the afternoon. Ezekiel was tempted to call it a day and go home, but Stone’s persistent eye had made his urges even harder to control it seemed. As everyone started going their separate ways to relax, he pulled Stone to the side. “Hey, you said the Library had a room we could use,” he whispered, trying to act casual, and failing miserably.

“I said ‘probably,’ but we could go hunting for one, if ya want,” Stone responded, voice low, but not a whisper.

“Hey, Stone, Jones, wanna go get a drink?” Flynn asked. The boys look up, startled, thinking everyone had left.

“Uh,” Stone started, glancing at Ezekiel who literally gave him puppy dog eyes. Eve, however, had a much more annoyed look aimed at Flynn. “I think I’m gonna turn in early, ya know. Busy day and all.”

“Oh,” Flynn said, pausing when Eve tapped his elbow, “yeah, on second thought that’s probably a good idea. See you two tomorrow!” He then offered his arm to Eve, and the two walked out the double doors.

“Alright, let’s go hunting,” Stone smirked to Ezekiel, offering his arm to him to mimic Flynn.  Ezekiel gives him a slightly confused look, but takes it anyway.

They made their way to the wall of doors, unsure of which to open. “Why don't we label these?” Ezekiel said, hand hovering over a metallic door.

“No! Don't open that one!” Stone shouted, pulling Ezekiel away by the shoulders. “That's the sunroom...the literal sunroom.”

“See?” Ezekiel commented.

Stone just smiled at him. “I'll be sure to pass it on to Jenkins.” Determined to find something useful, Stone turned right, opening a door every so often. After several minutes and not really useful rooms like “rock room” (a load of rocks on displays), “cave room” (possibly a backdoor to a cavern, but it was dark and there was squeaking so they promptly shut that door), and what looked to be a long abandoned “insect room” (based on dust and empty spots for displays, and the ominously empty habitat tanks), they came to a simple oak door with words inscribed on it.

“What one requires, I shall provide. What does that mean?” Ezekiel said.

Stone stared at the door, thinking hard, before he laughed. The laugh confused Ezekiel even more. “Of course the Library has it's own room of requirement,” Stone clarified, still chuckling to himself.

“What, like from Harry Potter?” Ezekiel asked. He wasn’t gonna get an answer out of Stone though; the cowboy was suddenly really giddy.

“Ok so what type of room do you want? Think about it, then open the door,” Stone instructed, grin on his face.

Ezekiel concentrated for a moment, looking at the door, then reached for the metal door handle. Before he touched it, he looked back to Stone. “Don’t joke, ok?”

“This was my idea...I’m not here to make you a laughing stock,” Stone replied, mildly exasperated. Ezekiel opened his mouth, but instead shook his head and grabbed the handle.

The door swung towards them with unnecessary creeking, revealing a long room with indoor running track material on the floor, walls of simple cinderblock, and lights set inside the ceiling. Against the right wall near the door was a rack with various types of balls, along with some rope and rubber toys.

Ezekiel stepped in first, with Stone close behind. “Woah.”

“So I guess you wanna play fetch?” Stone said as he looked at the rack.

“Uh, yeah,” Ezekiel responded, distracted. If he had a tail, he would’ve been wagging it so hard.

“Which one would ya like first?” Stone asked, watching Ezekiel with amusement.

Ezekiel’s eyes flicked over the whole rack several times. “I can’t pick, I dunno, you pick one.”

“Well,” Stone started, pulling out the rubber ball from his pocket, “I still got this.” Ezekiel’s eyes zeroed in on the ball, mouth slightly open again. Stone smiled, pulling his arm back, ready to throw, pausing to toy with Ezekiel.

“Oh come on, just throw it already,” Ezekiel complained, not quite a whine.

With a snort, Stone threw the ball as hard as he could, and Ezekiel went flying after it. The room actually expanded as his throw reached the far wall, tripping up Ezekiel for a moment before he continued his chase. To Stone’s amusement and mild disgust, he slid down on his knees, grabbing the ball with his teeth before sprinting back to Stone.

“Um, do you have to use your mouth?” Stone asked when he returned. He stuck his hand out anyway for Ezekiel to drop it. He barely had the ball in his teeth, jaw open as wide as he could.

Once he dropped the ball, Ezekiel stretched his jaw, massaging one side. “I couldn't help it, but I’m not gonna do that again.”

“You wanna switch to something else, or keep the ball?” Stone asked as he wiped the ball off on his jeans.

“One more with this, then I wanna try out the tennis ball,” Ezekiel answered, knees bent and ready to run. Stone obliged, throwing just as hard as last time. Ezekiel returned with the ball in hand this time, breathing quicker than before.

After going through a few of the different balls, Ezekiel jogged over to the rack, sweat dripping off his face. “I wanna do one of these rope ones,” he said, picking up a two-foot white rope with knots at either end.

“So like tug-o-war or throwing?” Stone asked, eyeing up the rope.

“Tug-o-war, but like don’t rip out my teeth please,” Ezekiel responded, biting down on one end of the rope.

“Uh, alright.” Stone hesitantly reached out, taking his end of the rope in one hand. “Don’t go at it too hard from your end either.” Ezekiel nodded, rope still in his mouth, then braced himself, pulling slightly at the rope. Stone tensed as well, giving a bit more resistance. After a few moments Ezekiel pulled harder from his end, growling slightly. “Oh, there’s more in ya,” Stone teased, pulling a bit harder. The corners of Ezekiel’s mouth curled up as he growled again and pulled harder. Stone didn’t increase his pull, but he wiggled the rope, giving in to Ezekiel’s pull a bit.

After a few rounds of tug-o-war, switching ropes each time, Ezekiel was dripping sweat. Stone was a bit sweaty as well, but nowhere near as much as Ezekiel. As Ezekiel wiped sweat off his forehead, a small table with two glasses of water appeared next to them. “I can’t believe we haven’t found this room before,” Ezekiel said as he downed the water.

“I’m surprised you hadn’t found this,” Stone replied, drinking water as well.

“I...actually never went this far, at least not after I found my side entrance,” Ezekiel answered. “And when the Library was mixing everything up, kind of halted explorations.”

Stone nodded in understanding. “So what do you want to do now?”

“Um, a shower would be nice,” Ezekiel started. The room shifted; the far wall suddenly much nearer, with two doors in it.

“Well I don’t think you need me to do that...I’m not scrubbing you with flea shampoo,” Stone snickered.

Ezekiel rolled his eyes, but his ears went redder than they were from exertion. “No, but, if you still want to-” Stone’s eyes went wide, but Ezekiel continued, “After I shower, I wouldn’t mind a...pet sesh.”

Stone relaxed a bit, but still chuckled. “Is that what we’re calling it now? ‘Pet sesh’?”

“What else would you call it?” Ezekiel retorted.

“Oh, I don’t know, maybe just cuddling? I mean that’s how I’d describe having the family dog next to me or on my lap while I pet ‘em,” Stone answered.

“I’m not getting on your lap,” Ezekiel scoffed, mildly joking.

“That’s entirely up to you to choose,” Stone added, completely serious.

“I’m, uh, gonna get in the shower then,” Ezekiel stammered, backing towards the doors.

“You do that, I’ll just wait here,” Stone replied, giving him a smile. “Take your time, darlin’.”

Ezekiel’s eyes went wide at the pet name; he gave Stone a weak smile before disappearing behind the door. He didn’t have a hard time relaxing in the shower. The Library was apparently really good at doing exactly what Ezekiel imagined, which was one of those super fancy showers with six body jets, rainfall shower head, stone tiles, and even a loofa.

While Ezekiel showered, Stone sneaked out of the room, making his way to the locker room next to the combat training room. He wasn’t sure about the room of requirement, but the locker room did have magic to keep it and its contents clean. Lucky for Ezekiel, he had his sweats in there. By the time he returned to the room of requirement, Ezekiel hadn’t gotten out yet.

“You havin’ a good time in there?” he asked to the pleasant sounding water.

“I know you left,” is all Ezekiel said.

“I wasn’t tryin’ very hard,” Stone countered.

“Sure you weren’t,” Ezekiel laughed from the shower.

“Anyway, I got a change of clothes for you, so you don’t have to wear your sweaty clothes. They’re my workout sweats, clean of course,” Stone said.

The water shut off as the bottom foot foot or so of the door disappeared, revealing Ezekiel’s feet. “You can hand them under.” Once the clothes were transferred, he added a meek thanks.

A few minutes later, Ezekiel stepped out. The sweats were quite big on him, but he looked comfy. The wall behind him shifted, removing the doors and leaving Ezekiel's pile of clothes on the floor. “This room is amazing,” Ezekiel said as he stepped, barefoot, toward the center. He concentrated for a few moments, making the room shift again.

The room became much darker, lit only by a flickering fire in a stone fireplace in the left wall. A plush-looking couch materialized in front of the fireplace as the walls shifted to dark wood paneling, and the floor changed from running track material into soft, light beige carpet.

“Ok this is amazing,” Ezekiel said as he surveyed his mind's creation.

“Um, where'd you come up with this?” Stone asked looking around the room as well.

“A house I broke into a long time ago had a den like this,” Ezekiel replied as he walked over to the couch and plopped down.

“It is cozy,” Stone added, sitting down next to Ezekiel, leaving a good half of a foot in between them. “So, uh, same as last time?”

Ezekiel shifted in his seat, sitting sideways so he could face Stone. “Yeah.”

Suddenly hesitant like the day before, Stone reached out, weaving his fingers through Ezekiel’s somewhat damp hair. Ezekiel’s eyes fluttered closed, content smile appearing on his face. He looked so relaxed, content, happy, that after a few minutes Stone quit petting, leaving his hand around the side and back of Ezekiel’s neck. Ezekiel’s eyes opened at his stop, a concerned look appearing on his face. “What’s wrong?”

Stone stared at him for a moment before realizing he needed to respond. “No, nothin’,” Stone stammers, flashing a smile at Ezekiel, before leaning towards him. He paused several inches from Ezekiel’s face, expression suddenly serious. “Is this ok?”

Ezekiel furrowed his brows at him. “Why would it not be ok? I haven’t told you to stop.”

“I’d rather have an explicit ‘yes’ than just go off you not stopping me,” Stone sighed.

Ezekiel was truly touched by Stone’s care. “I’ve not had that before,” he mumbled.

Now it was Stone’s turn give a look of almost pity. “Well I’m not gonna do anythin’ without your ok, ok?” He lowered his head slightly, waiting for Ezekiel to respond.

“Ok,” Ezekiel answered, mock exasperation in his voice. “You’re more than allowed to kiss me.”

“Heh, that’s more like it,” Stone replied, closing the distance between them. Ezekiel was shocked about how caring, how gentle Stone suddenly was. It’s not that he didn’t think Stone capable of it, but Ezekiel didn’t usually have it “gentle”  like this; it was a whole new thing for him.

The exhaustion of the day finally hit Ezekiel after a few minutes. He pulled away, but not far, smiling at Stone. “I’d like some more petting,” he stated as he laid out on the couch, head on Stone’s lap, watching the fire.

“Alright,” Stone chuckled, letting him get settled before resuming the petting. Ezekiel hummed, content. “Can I go past shoulders?” Stone checked in with him.

“Yeah,” Ezekiel sighed, breathing growing quite regular.

Stone let one of his hands run up and down Ezekiel’s arm slowly, massaging a little bit, knowing full well he was putting Ezekiel to sleep. He silently thanked Ezekiel’s imagination for conjuring up the comfiest couch he’d ever sat on as he felt himself being lulled by the crackling fire.

They probably would've slept the whole night if Jenkins hadn't opened the door. “What the-” the immortal said as he stepped inside. “So this is where you two went.”

Stone jumped, shaking Ezekiel awake and pushing him off his lap. “What are you doing here?” Stone demanded as he stood, trying but failing at being nonchalant.

“I happen to live here…” Jenkins deadpanned. He was wearing a plush looking robe over some pajama bottoms, and slippers.

Ezekiel became aware of the new situation as he sat up. “How come you never told us about this?” he asked, not even bothering to look embarrassed like Stone was.

“Well, this is a big reason,” Jenkins answered. “I would like to go to sleep myself, without roommates preferably.”

“There's no bedrooms in the Annex?” Stone asked, curious.

“The Library was not intended to be lived in. It's a workplace first. I just happened to adapt it to my needs,” Jenkins replied. Ezekiel didn't seem like he was going to move on his own, so Stone grabbed him by the upper arm, pushing him towards the door. “At least get his shoes,” Jenkins sighed, looking at Ezekiel's clothes still sitting in a pile on the floor.

“I would like those,” Ezekiel yawned, walking on his own to his things. He slipped the shoes on, not bothering with socks, and scooped up the rest. He then walked towards the door, Stone following behind him.

“Goodnight, boys,” Jenkins nodded, ushering them out of the room. “Don't forget to lock up behind yourselves.” As soon as they stepped back into the Library, the door creaky swung shut on its own.

“Well that was weird,” Ezekiel said as they started walking back to the Annex.

“That was the only weird thing?” Stone teased, still a little tense from Jenkins’ sudden appearance. Ezekiel only glanced at him from the corner of his eye in response.

They stayed silent the rest of the way until they were standing outside the entrance. It was night now; Ezekiel's phone said it was almost 1 am. “I can give ya a ride home, if ya want,” Stone offered as they walked to his pickup truck parked on the side of the road.

“Can I come home with you?” Ezekiel blurted, streetlights thankfully not bright enough to show his sudden blush.

“Don't ya think it's a little early for that?” Stone asked.

“Well I never thought whatever...this..is, was normal,” Ezekiel retorted, using his head to motion in between them since his arms were occupied. “And that doesn't mean we do anything, either. I just,” he paused, looking down at his clothes, “sleeping alone doesn't seem as great of an option after that.”

Stone stared at him for a moment, studying him carefully, before shrugging. “If that's what you want, then I'm more than happy to oblige,” Stone answered. “I just want to make sure you're fully on board with whatever we do.” For a split second Stone thought Ezekiel was tearing up, but he quickly forgot as Ezekiel kissed him, short but meaningful. “Alrighty then,” Stone started when Ezekiel pulled away. He smiled at him before turning around to unlock his truck door. Ezekiel stood there, unmoving. “Well, come on then, I'm more than ready to go back to sleep.”

“Sleep sounds amazing,” Ezekiel replied as he walked around to the passenger door, opening it and tossing his clothes in the middle before sliding in himself. Stone had already gotten in on the driver's side and was fiddling with the seatbelt. “You're a really good petter,” Ezekiel said as he put his own seatbelt on.

“Uh, thanks?” Stone said, a little thrown by the compliment as he started his truck. Before he shifted into drive, he looked over at Ezekiel, almost seductive but not quite. “Maybe when we get home you can have some more.”

“I hope that's a promise,” Ezekiel snorted, amused at Stone's expression.

“It can be if you want it to,” Stone returned, lowering his voice.

“Then hurry up and carry me off to bed, cowboy,” Ezekiel practically purred. Ezekiel's sudden shift in intensity made Stone flustered.

“As you wish,” Stone replied with a bow of his head, punctuated by a wink. He then shifted into drive, more than ready to get home.

[soft-and-typical-piedays-blog]

Barkbox particular for allergic dogs

To make sure that your allergic canine friend remains safe and sound, the contents of your Barkbox are safe and sound. All of the Barkboxes delivered to homes are free of soy, corn, and wheat. Therefore , you don’t even have to think about the ingredients of the you don’t have to think about the ingredients of the toys even, treats and the chews. In case your dog is allergic to chicken, beef, or turkey, the allergy-friendly Barkboxes will send the healthiest hypoallergenic dog treats to your doorstep.

Bark box gives back

This ongoing company gives 10 percent of its profits to animal shelters and animal rescue groups. There are over 3000 shelters, which receive help from Barkbox. As a result, your purchase goes quite a distance in helping other canines across Canada and the united states. Scouts-Honor Guarantee This guarantee promises to provide you with a replacement for just about any item your beloved dislikes. The replacement will be entirely free.

More favorites Barkbox

When you come across an interesting item in your Barkbox that you and your dog really like you can also reorder that specific item. Safe and healthy processing To enhance the ongoing health of your dog, Barkbox’s treats are of the best standards. As stated above, they are corn, wheat, and soy free of charge. But, that isn’t all, the things you receive are being among the most natural and organic items you shall have got in your home. The treats are sourced from SOUTH USA, New Zealand, Australia, USA, and Canada. What Barkbox claims you is certainly that you won’t get dog products that the guys at Barkbox wouldn’t give their dogs.

Superstar dog Barkbox

Lastly, you need to enroll in the Barkbox plans because, other than the treats, your dog will get a possibility to be an online sensation. All you have to do is usually post its picture on the site!!!

Conclusion Barkbox

From this Barkbox overview of the available programs and features, it really is clear that Barkbox may be the best plan that can be done for the ongoing health, basic safety and the happiness of your pet. The themed Barkboxes are inexpensive, attractive, and all of the playthings, treats, and chews secure, and healthful. Don't delay obtain your plan today just before prices rise! Looking for a genuine BarkBox Review? Well then you’ve come to the right place. As you may or may not know, we go through a lot of dog toys in this house. We also go through an amazing quantity of rawhide bones because they go longer than any various other dog chew or gadget. As you may keep in mind I wrote about indestructible pup toys a couple years back when I was looking for the perfect dog gadget for Ruby. Regrettably, there is no perfect dog plaything for Ruby because she shreds them within minutes of getting them. And still I try.

BarkBox Review

Getting back to my BarkBox evaluate… I love BarkBox. I signed up last spring for this monthly subscription package and have not been let down. The BarkBox comes with two good sized toys. While they are not indestructible, they are well made, pretty long lasting and interesting to your dog usually. That one (and similar variants which were since shredded) appear to end up being the most interesting to Ruby. Each container is themed, which is kind of fun for the individual, not so sure how the dogs feel about it. This plaything, the one I call Man Bun (even though it is clearly a woman), appears to be a gymnast. You can pull the legs through the body making it a fun tug of war toy. The legs are made of a heavy duty rope so when the body gets chewed up the rope is definitely left as a good teeth cleaning plaything or fetch gadget. The hands were removed within a few minutes of appearing out of the container. I’m surprised she's not really gotten the bun off yet. This month the theme is California Droolin’ - it’s a box dedicated to all that awesomeness in the Golden State. It features toys like an avocado, palm tree, fish taco, and shark toys. Our box came with a hedge hog in a bathing suit and the fish taco. It also included several snacks (which are great for Stanley since he doesn’t really play with toys) such as freeze dried beef and bacon crackers. The fish taco toy was snatched from the box immediately. The poor factor lost its lips immediately, accompanied by it’s innards. Today it’s fundamentally a cat toy since the squeaky bits have already been taken out. I’m hoarding the hedge hog for a particular event because I don’t desire stuffing all around the floor. The treats are loved by both canines which come in each BarkBox, two hand bags of treats and one much larger chew style deal with usually. We’ve gotten bully sticks, and additional organs for the canines to chew. Because Ruby chews with such enthusiasm I have a tendency to supply the harder chews to Stanley. He’ll take his time with them, Ruby just swallows them whole. This month’s box featured a dried steak. It’s hard but will soften as it is chewed, something necessary for Ruby.

So, in a conclusion, I love the BarkBox. It’s something to anticipate, the dogs love obtaining something in the mail (significantly, they are like small children when it arrives), and it has really top quality items in it always. I don’t always experience sure about providing my dogs a few of the treats you discover in the big package pet stores, but the ones that come in the BarkBox are made in the USA, and are made of high quality ingredients. Of course, they love the flavors. Located in New York, BarkBox is an online subscription-based provider of pet-themed products. Founded in 2011 by Matt Meeker, Henrik Werdelin and Carly Strife, the ongoing company has generated a great reputation because of its quality of its service. In order to assist you to figure out be it right for you as well as your pet, Offer Meister's official information below will go over the most important aspects of BarkBox's services. What Makes BarkBox Unique? BarkBox is a subscription service designed to make your dog happier. Each month, a BarkBox containing natural treats, chews and our original toys will arrive at your home. In order to keep things varied and interesting, every new BarkBox includes a special theme that'll be the delight of owners and pets alike. Examples of past styles are: Dogmas in the town, Chewrassic Bark (Jurassic Park theme), Throwbark Thursday, and New York City. There may be other subscription services that cater to pets. However, BarkBox is unique because of its exclusive toys and treats. When it first started, BarkBox would find the best products and put them together in a box. Today, the ongoing company produces its own playthings and bakes its treats, ensuring range, originality and a higher level of quality. Not only is it unique, BarkBox stands out for its commitment to provide individualized service and attention to each one of its customers. To that end, the company has generated its Happy Team, a group of experienced dog enthusiasts that provide customer support via text, the BarkBox app, phone, chat and email and email. In conditions of quality, BarkBox is up there with the very best. Each of its BARK original toys is made based on the highest health and safety standards. Additionally, all playthings are accepted and playtested by real, incredibly demanding dogs. Likewise, BarkBox's treats are created with healthy high-quality substances such as soy, wheat and corn. and wheat. They do not contain artificial flavors, artificial preservatives or weird ingredients of any type or kind.

The way the Signup Process Barkbox Works

Subscribing to 1 of BarkBox's regular delivery packages may be accomplished through the business's website. We're discussing a well-organized, basic and straightforward online membership box which allows you to go for your options that are easiest for you and your preferred pet.

At the brief minute of your subscribing, you will be necessary to enter your individual information. Additionally , you will be required to enter some information regarding your dog. Without a doubt, the most important information you shall be required to enter regards how big is the pet. You will need to choose one of three categories: " Small and Cute", " Just Right " and "Big and Bold". BarkBox ships out its packages every 15th of the month. Based on the area you live in, it can take up to three days for the package to arrive at your home. Once a person has subscribed to the ongoing service, they will get a new BarkBox each full month until their subscription is canceled or it expires.

Pricing and Value Barkbox

Subscribing to 1 of BarkBox's regular delivery packages may be accomplished through the business's website. Clients can subscribe for at least one month for $29 (including delivery costs ). Shipping is free of charge for all orders. This is a great option for potential customers who wish to try the provider before signing up to 1 of the more costly plans. However , if indeed they feel therefore inclined, clients may subscribe for three also, six and a year for the next prices: It is vital to be aware that the whole amount will end up being charged when the membership is requested, so you may want to be absolutely sure before committing to one of the more comprehensive packages. Potential customers should also be aware that all subscriptions are renewed the 3rd of every month. For that reason, whenever you want to stop the service, you will need to remember to cancel a subscription before (or soon after ) the plan expires. Public Perception ( Additional BarkBox Reviews) Going through the obtainable BarkBox reviews, it is not difficult to understand that, in general, customers are very pleased with this service. More specifically, customers tend to love the quality and variety of the products featured in every BarkBox. Many have also praised the reliability and effectiveness of BarkBox's delivery service. Additionally , there has been very positive feedback regarding the company's user-friendly and informative website. In combination with its social media platforms, this website provides a reliable source of information and a great way for customers to voice their concerns. Although it's a fantastic service, BarkBox is far from perfect. There have been some complaints regarding the way in which the membership process works. One of the most important such complaints is due to the automated renewal of memberships. Having missed the notice regarding this feature when signing up, many customers are surprised (and even outraged) when they discover they have been charged again without their explicit consent.

How It Compares Barkbox

As you probably know, there are various other pet-related subscription delivery services available. Without a doubt, one of the BarkBox's most direct competitors is PawPack. Similarly to BarkBox, PawPack is a monthly subscription box for canines. What differentiates PawPack from additional similar solutions is its focus on eco-friendly, all-natural products. Another ongoing assistance that competes with BarkBox is definitely Surprise My Pet. Despite the fact that it's relatively new, this ongoing company offers been gaining popularity because it opened in 2015. Despite the fact that it's somewhat costly, its products are extremely high in quality. Furthermore to these services, there are various others that have a similar concept. Some of the most popular are Pet Treater, PetGiftBox and PupBox . Though all of the aforementioned services are very good even, BarkBox is definitely capable of standing up to them. This is how BarkBox compares to other services in three main aspects of its service: · Price: One of the biggest advantages BarkBox has over its competitors may be the incredible affordability of its price. While most companies of this type charge over 40 monthly dollars, BarkBox charges a maximum of $29 for its service. · Variety of selection: One of the most reiterated complaints customers have against subscription boxes may be the lack of range they need to offer. Frequently, boxes arrive with unoriginal products, or even worse, items which have been sent already. Luckily, BarkBox makes a spot of changing its shipped items, producing a variety that's often pleasantly surprising. Also, every month includes a new theme on a monthly basis, strengthening all of the the service further.

· Ease of sign-up: That is an element of BarkBox's service where it falls short compared to its competitors. Despite the fact that the service's website is, in itself, very user-friendly and straightforward, its sign up pages could be easier to navigate. At the same time, customers of the support could benefit from obtaining more detailed information regarding important aspects of signing up such as the dreaded automatic membership renewal. FAQs

What do you get in a BarkBox?

Where is BarkBox located? Can you cancel BarkBox at any time? How do I track my Barkbox order? Who is who owns BarkBox?

Is It Barkbox WORTHWHILE For Me?

BarkBox is a recommended program for owners of dynamic, playful dogs. When you have a pet pet dog that adores treats and playthings but gets sick and tired of them quickly, barkBox is ideal for you then. However , if you're who owns an older or even more passive dog, this service may not be the right fit for you.

Barkbox Review Summary/Overview

In conclusion, BarkBox is a very important service that provides a number of high-quality treats and playthings for dogs. Efficient and reliable, this is a service that will be cherished by owners of fun-loving, energetic canines. If you haven't tried it yet, go to BarkBox's website and sign up today! In case you have, please let us know about your experience in the comment section!

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