#It took me so long to replace it and I didn't know why. people offered me better phones and I'd be like. No <3333< /div> Explore tagged Tumblr posts

[anothermonikan]

IDK whether I'm objectum or not but I believe in their beliefs, I think

[dcxdpdabbles]

phone a friend♥️

danny is a god and poor tim is trying so hard to ignore his family talking about the wedding

Tim watches Danny as the other boy gestures wildly to the art around them. It's surprising to know that Danny has never been to a art museum, claiming the small town he was from never had one.

Oh, they had small art shows and a few street markets, but nothing official like a building dedicated to art. Their teacher had announced to the class a semi-famous water color painter's work was going to be on exhibit a week ago.

She offered extra credit to anyone who would go and write a report about their experience.

Very few people cared, seeing as a majority of the student body of Gotham would go to art auctions at least once a week. Tim had been among those that didn't plan on attending, seeing as his grade were adequate enough, and he's been to the art museum often with Damian.

Then he glanced at the desk next to him, watching frost slowly form around Danny's hands as the boy read about the museum. A few seconds later, he stuffed the flyer into his backpack, the sound of snickering from further down telling Tim that some of the more annoying classmates saw how fascinated Danny was.

Knowing him, Danny would probably act like it was lame if only to save face with his classmates who didn't accept or deserve him. The frost vanished, replaced with a soft echo in Danny's voice as he muttered about how he didn't think he could afford to waste money on a museum ticket.

Tim likely wasn't supposed to hear that. He picks up the flyer, considering it with an pair of great importance, just long enough for Danny to realize that Tim was doing so before gesturing at it.

"That sounds cool. Easy extra credit. Do you want to go with me, Danny?" Tim found himself asking. Danny's entire face lit up, frost forming around the windows near him in beautifual snowflack shapes.

Thank goodness the two sat so far back in the classroom, and the winter was well underway. No one would question the frost in this environment.

That's how he found himself, wandering around the Gotham art museum with an overly hyper meta on a cold winter Saturday. They sold hot chocolate at the entrance- with strict instructions to not go beyond the ropes- and he took sips as Danny oh and ah at everything.

He tried really hard to ignore his family, who were following them room by room just outside Danny's range. They weren't even in disguises! The idiots were walking around as the Waynes but were moving in a way that made it impossible for them to "accidentally" bump into Tim and Danny.

This kind of behavior he expects from his siblings, maybe Bruce due to Danny's meta powers, but Alfred? Why had Alfred forsaken him so?

"Tim, look at this piece!" Danny calls, pointing to a very dramatic interpretation of the Black Plague in the form of a grim reaper towering over a cowering village.

Tim shoot the doorway a glare, catching the flash of one of Jason's wavings hands before he joins Danny infront of the rope. He's eyes take in every detail, every stroke, a bit breathless by how alive the paiting is.

"It's gorgeous." Tim breathes, eyes lingering on a figure atop a hill in the background. The figure has enough details that it's obvious he is also part of the story, not just the setting.

Despite his commoner clothing, he looked like an angel among the humans. The figure looked up at the grim reaper, his white hair flowing in the wind, and a gentle glow surrounding him.

His expression was remorseful but accepting of what was happening, and his beauty was almost inhuman as he watched the reaper bring the village to its knees. Tim swears he looked familiar, but he couldn't quite place the face due to its near-human features; there was just something more to it.

Tim points towards him. "I think that's supposed to be life."

Danny's eyes lock onto the glowing boy before choking on his drink. Alarm Tim pats his back as Danny coughs through the liquid. "Dude are you okay?"

"I'm fine!" Danny wheezes "Just fine. Um, when was this painted?"

There is a plaque right underneath the painting with the art detail. He squints at it before reading out loud: "Black Death's Shadow. Painted in 1886 by an unknown Goth artist. It's said that the artist was painting a story passed down through the generations of the survivors of a small village saved by the King."

Danny wheezes harder. "Wow that's crazy. It's really pretty. What-um what style would this be called? Need to write that essay for Mrs. X. "

"It looks like romanticism," Tim responded, leaning in the closer, chest now over the velvet ropes. He squits harder at the glowing figure, trying to figure out who it reminded him of. The artist was talented, but maybe they weren't able to capture the charater well based off of stories?

"Wow so cool," Danny said in a strained voice. He turns to look at his companion and is about to ask if something is wrong when a quick spark races across his shoulder blades. Surprised by the sensation, Tim jerks his shoulders, feeling as if though someone had shocked him.

He quickly glances around with his eyes, ensuring not to turn his head and witness other guests flinching at the tiny spark. A few are also looking around confused.

Did everyone just experience static electricity? At the same time? With no one touching metal or other conductors? How could that be?

Danny doesn't seem to notice Tim's puzzelment because he is staring at the painted white hair boy with a forced smile. "Why do you think this is Life?"

"Lots of things," Tim responds, tilting his head slowly to try and gather more information without tipping off whatever caused that charge. "Mostly the glow and inhuman features."

Another shock, a few people wince and another few laugh, but this time Tim saw a flash of soft sparks race across Danny's left hand, and his mouth makes a small o in realization.

Danny's meta powers were causing the static shocks. But what emotion was causing this?

"Inhuman?" Danny stammered, more sparks zapping across his hands but not strong enough that Tim could feel them.

"Yeah, he's inhumanly beautiful," Tim answered, watching in real-time as Danny's cheeks turned rosy while the sparks stopped. His hair started to fall out slowly, indicating happiness and slight bashfulness. He was acting like Tim had called him beautiful—not that he wasn't. Danny was fairly good-looking.

Huh.

Tim truned back to the painting compare it's feacture to the boy next to him and then it clicked.

Danny was the glowing boy in the painting, or more likely when using his powers. Cass did say Danny reminded her of Captain Marvel.

Now, the question remained: Was it just his powers, or was Danny physically present the day this was painted? Even further than that, was Danny there the day the painting's inspiration had happened, five hundred years before the artist painted the tale?

Was Danny unaware he was in the painting?

"Um, we should move on, yeah? I think I want to check out some of the sculptures?" Danny sputtered while tugging on Tim's hand. Without letting go his classmate dragged him out of the painting exhibits in brisk speed walk.

He definitely knows that was him. Tim thought, watching Danny's back as he let himself be led away. Does that mean I was wrong about him being a meta? Is Danny a god or god adjacent?

Meanwhile, the rest of the Waynes are crowding around the doorway of the painting hall, watching Tim and his not-human boyfriend practically run away.

"They are so cute together" Dick cooed, gestureing at where Tim seemed to not be able to take his eyes off the other. "I mean look at Tim. He's mesmerized!"

"What were they looking at?" Bruce questions, stepping into the room and standing before the painting that had Danny freezing up. "Why did this cause such a strong reaction?"

"Obviously, Father, it was due to how weak-willed Drake's courtship is. He didn't even attempt to hold Fenton's hand. Coward," Damian snips at his side, while Jason and the rest quickly follow after Tim. "I could never. I held Jon's hand the second he agreed to a romantic outing-"

"What?"

"What?"

The pair stared at each other in utter silence before Damian coughed. "We should make haste to follow Drake, least we lose him. Come along Father"

"Damian, come back here. Explain what you just said. Damian!"

[euhla]

‘CONFESSION’ aventurine x fem!reader (fluff, ballroom dancing)

this is actually a part of my fanfiction that i just post on AO3 but short ver ! it’s actually kinda long (honorable mention; wingman topaz)

A night filled with stars, sounds of people talking in the background, and occasionally the moon gives off reflected light to the ambiance.

A day before Aventurine left to go to Penacony, he was invited to attend an event. The event was nothing more than a dance party in a ballroom.

Fancy and elegant, if Aventurine had to describe it. Several statues representing Greek gods and goddesses are carved beautifully, even the corner of the ballroom looks majestic. And of course, the other invited guests were none other than important people. Aventurine felt a little honored to be invited.

And of course, you are also invited to the event.

Aventurine couldn't take his eyes off you; how the expensive satin dress you're wearing captures every curve of your body perfectly, and how the makeup on your already bewitching face makes you look even more divine.

Aventurine couldn't help but wonder; How does it feel to have you? Will you always allow him to put his hand on your waist so that everyone knows you are his? Will you always call his name with a smile?

Aeons, Aventurine can’t get enough of you.

“Ves'tacha, you look enchanting.” You were surprised by the nickname he used on you, but a blush managed to appear on your cheeks.

“Thanks, Aven. You look even more attractive.”

Schwanengesang, D.957: No. 4 Serenade. Something you wouldn't expect to be played by the great and talented musicians invited to the event.

Sipping the wine given by the waiter who went around to offer wine, you looked at the couples who were dancing to the rhythm.

It tastes good, you think to yourself.

Feeling a hand on your shoulder from behind, you immediately turned around quickly. Finding Aventurine who is now holding your hand.

“Mind for a dance?”

Your confusion was quickly replaced by a smile. “Why not?”

Aventurine kissed your hand, then guided you to follow him. You two look like a couple, that’s what you always thought.

The way Aventurine led the dance immediately, his hand was always gently on your waist, his other hand holding yours.

“You’re going to Penacony tomorrow?” You asked between the silence between the two of you.

“Mhm. Will you miss me?” Aventurine didn't know where he got the courage to get the confidence to ask it.

“Of course,” you answed. Aventurine's eyes easily showed that he was surprised. He felt a slight warmth which relieved him.

“Then, let's go together.” Now you are the one who is surprised. But you can't lie to your heart that wants to say yes.

Just by your smile, Aventurine knows your answer. He shouted victory in his heart.

“Aven,” you called.

“Yes?”

Masquerade Suite: Waltz. You gave him a smile.

“I like you.”

Aventurine was silent. It took him three seconds to process and try to say something, but his mouth couldn't say anything.

His hand was on your waist pulling you closer. Without saying anything, he kissed you when the music was at its peak. “Ves'tacha,” he whispers.

‘May this heart beats for you.’

[linkemon]

Revenge (Dracula x Reader)

Friendly reminder that English is not my first language. You can check my Masterlists both in English and Polish here. Consider supporting me on Ko-fi. You can also check out my commissions if you’re interested.

Other oneshots can be found here.

"ꜱʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴜʟᴅɴ'ᴛ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴋɴᴏᴡɴ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ ᴡᴀꜱ ʀᴜꜱʜɪɴɢ ꜰᴀꜱᴛᴇʀ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇᴇᴛ ʜɪᴍ. ꜱʜᴇ ᴡᴀꜱɴ'ᴛ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ɪɴ ʟɪɴᴇ."

ᴀᴅᴅɪᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ɪɴꜰᴏʀᴍᴀᴛɪᴏɴ: 1. ꜱᴘᴏɪʟᴇʀꜱ ꜰᴏʀ ꜱᴇᴀꜱᴏɴ 2.

[Reader] looked around. The desert stretched as far as the eye could see. Dune after dune and nothing else. Not a single plant, even the smallest one. Heat was pouring from the sky. The air was dry. She reached for the sand, not believing what had happened. Yellow particles fell between her fingers.

The entire landscape seemed the opposite of where she was just a minute ago. The dark, cold, old chambers of Dracula's castle — that's where she should be standing now. She had a duty to defend the vampire. She took an oath.

And yet Vlad sent her away. For her supposed good. When he pushed her into the magic mirror, she wanted to scream. He didn't save her at all. She couldn't be his lover, so she wanted to at least be a faithful servant. She wanted to die by his side. She didn't even get that. Fate never gave her anything she wanted.

— Sir. — She bowed.

She saw him less and less. However, it still happened that he visited her not only to talk about matters related to the army.

It was one of the evenings when he asked strange questions. She knew it. She could tell by the way he sat in the big red chair. He then seemed to shrink in on himself. As if all the power he wielded was draining from him.

— Why are you still here with me, [Reader]? I want to murder your race. — The wine in the goblet shimmered in the light coming from the fireplace. — I also can't give you what you want.

He didn't look her in the eye.

— I've known this for a long time — she replied, unmoved.

She sat down on the floor, by the fire. She looked towards Dracula.

She saw how tired he was. The flame of life burned out in him long ago. He was no longer the same vampire, craving justice for his wife's death. He continued to finish what he started long ago. However, he did it mechanically. There was no passion in it. Mass murders no longer brought him relief. He left it to others. Generals, armies and other vampires. He knew there was no turning back, so he went with the flow. She couldn't comfort him. And even if she could, she knew he wouldn't want to. He drowned in his sadness too deep and did not want to surface at all.

— My love doesn't matter. It doesn't have to be reciprocal. I followed you and I will do what needs to be done. Humanity never cared about me or Isaac or Hector either. — She tightened her fingers on her weapon. — We don't care about people. The fact that we are people has nothing to do with it.

Sometimes she wondered what she was doing with her life. She could have left. Leaving a person who never looked at her the same way. And yet she stayed here. In a gloomy castle, commanding an army of vampires. Creating creatures that kill her kin. But if she stopped, what would she be left with?

She felt that if she refused to help him, she would regret it. In the end, she didn't care anyway. And he needed her. He chose her to help him avenge Lisa. It didn't matter that she should be looked at as a dead rival. No one and nothing would replace the emptiness left by her. Even she couldn't do it. So she stuck with it all. She joyfully rushed towards her own destruction. For him and herself.

She couldn't know that death was rushing faster to meet him. She wasn't first in line.

Isaac seemed less lost than she was in his new surroundings. He stood up and offered her his hand. Throughout their acquaintance, he showed virtually nothing about himself. Now, however, she saw uncertainty in the brown eyes — slight, but still. He was wondering the same thing as her. Is there a chance that the vampire they loved survived?

— He won't kill his son. Not Alucard. Her voice sounded strange in the great wilderness. — So he will die.

She was afraid to say it. This sentence seemed to make real the fact that he was going to die. It was as if by admitting the truth she was killing him herself.

She was answered by a nod of her head.

— There is still revenge. — The man pulled out a dagger, looking at his reflection in the blade.

He never said much but he didn't have to. She understood him enough.

The list was long: Hector, Carmilla, the traitorous army, Alucard, and millions of nameless people. They all had to die. They had no right to walk in this world if Vlad was no longer there.

— Revenge. — She nodded. — And then we'll join him.

She was angry. This wasn't how she imagined it. They should finish the job together with Dracula. She was supposed to leave before him. She felt that when she finally allowed herself to meet death, she would welcome it with joy. However, she had a long way to go before that happened. There was so much she still had to do before she could die in peace.

There was no time for tears or mourning. They had to make plans. For a moment she felt tired. However, she recovered and followed the Forgemaster. Step by step they marched through the wasteland. 

[esamastation]

Shizuroth, part eight.

-

"How is he?"

"What do you think?"

Lazard gives the SOLDIER First Class an unimpressed look and Genesis sniffs. "Never fear, Director - your Hero will be well fit for duty - after a break," Genesis says.

"Sephiroth never takes breaks," Lazard points out.

That earns him another sniff, one much closer to a scoff this time. "And people wonder why he's so unapproachable," Genesis says, rolling his eyes. "Why he keeps destroying training rooms in regular spars."

"I seem to recall you and Angeal having a hand in that too," Lazard says, amused and unimpressed. "You are all still forbidden from using the training rooms."

"Yes, yes, ours is a tragic tale of woe," Genesis says dismissively. "The point I'm trying to make is that whether Sephiroth takes breaks or not, he still needs them. He might be Elite even among us Firsts - but he's still human. No matter what the professor says."

Lazard folds his arms. "So this was to be expected, is that it?"

"Wasn't it? Have you not seen Sephiroth's schedule? And I don't just mean his mission roster. He's in and out of the labs so often they should install a revolving door, just for him," Genesis scoffs and looks away. "It's a wonder he didn't start losing it before."

Lazard narrows his eyes. "Has he lost it, then, Genesis? Has he been pushed to the brink?"

Genesis is quiet for a moment and then sighs. "No," he says. "Not yet. But something happened that shook him. Apparently his heart stopped, he was given too big a dose - but I don't think that's it. Not all of it."

"It sounds plenty shocking to me."

"SOLDIERs flatline all the time. That's what Phoenix Downs are for," Genesis waves a hand at that. "Sephiroth must've gone through it a thousand times. But maybe, in combination with the higher dose he got, and however long he was dead…"

Lazard hums. "Memory issues?"

"Most definitely," Genesis agrees, and gives him a sideways look. "He'll be able to cover it up - given time. But he must've forgotten more than he was letting on. I don't know how much - but it was a lot."

Lazard hums in grim understanding, and they're quiet for a moment in shared acceptance. Memory loss in a SOLDIER is common enough and usually isn't reason alone to pull them from the field - higher ups really didn't care. But it tends to have other detrimental effects…

Like an increased mortality rate.

SOLDIERs were sent out only on toughest of missions, taking on most dangerous assignments the company had to offer. Everything Turks or Infantry couldn't handle, the SOLDIER took care of. And going on a high-risk mission with any level of loss of mental faculties… 

If Sephiroth was operating with something worse than your usual case of a few burned synapses…

"He needs to be evaluated," Lazard says finally. "Sephiroth has numerous missions coming up in Wutai - if his abilities are compromised -"

"You'll send someone else?" Genesis asks and scoffs. "That I would like to see! How will that look in the newspapers, when the poster boy is replaced? The horror, the controversy - the conspiracy!"

Lazard casts him a look. "Or maybe I will have to shuffle the roster to send someone with him," he says pointedly.

"To babysit Sephiroth?"

"Better than to risk everything due to lack of foresight," Lazard muses and leans back in his chair. "Angeal will be back tomorrow - I want you to debrief him on the situation - quietly - and then the two of you can assess Sephiroth's condition."

"Out of the company's view, I assume?" Genesis asks while whipping out his PHS to check the calendar.

"It wouldn't do for rumours to spread," Lazard agrees and looks away. "Thankfully the Third who saw him already promised to be discreet."

Genesis hums dubiously. "We'll see how long that will last," he mutters, scrolling through his schedule. In his experience, SOLDIERs gossip worse than the secretary staff. 

"I'll take even a day's delay. With the true extent of his stay in Injections suppressed and with you handling the rest, hopefully the gossip won't find enough ground to spread," Lazard says.

Genesis hums and then frowns at a new message notification. "Ah," he says, reading the title.

"Hm?" Lazard asks 

"Well. Speaking of gossip," Genesis says, his brows arching. "Someone is getting fired at Laybell's."

Lazard frowns and gives him a confused look. "Laybell's? You mean the clothing store?"

Genesis opens the mail that had just been sent out to Silver Elite and reads it through.

SEPHIROTH JUST ORDERED A WHOLE BUNCH OF SHIRTS FROM LAYBELL'S?!? by Beybelina

Hi, hello, hey, I'm a bit of a lurker, usually I don't have anything to say, but something INCREDIBLE just happened! 

I work at the Laybell's in Sector Seven and I was just processing orders when it popped up! At first I couldn't believe my eyes! The name on the order, it couldn't be! It was SEPHIROTH! I thought it was fake, so I checked - and the mailing address is Shinra HQ!

Aaaah, my heart is pounding like mad! Sephiroth, making orders from our store! This is the happiest day of my life!

There's almost instantly a reply.

Re: SHIRTS FROM LAYBELL'S by Silver Tail

OH MY GODDESS! What did he order? What kind of shirts? What colour? Tell us everything!

And then an answer to that, just as quickly…

Re:re: SHIRTS FROM LAYBELL'S by Beybelina 

I have the full list, though I probably shouldn't mail it because of customer confidentiality! But let's just say it  looks like he's moving in from the Glorious Coat of Greatness and Goodness and we'll all be worse for it! He will look amazing of course, but it's still a tragedy! 

Genesis brows arch slightly in incredulity. What customer confidentiality? "Apparently Sephiroth has been shopping for clothes."

Lazard looks up, and Genesis shows him the message. "Hm. I agree, someone is certainly getting fired," he says dubiously. "But is it really that unusual? Everyone uses mail to shop these days."

Genesis gives him a look. "You have no idea what the state of his wardrobe is, do you?"

"I make it a point not to pry into the personal affairs of SOLDIER members," Lazard admits.

"And we're oh so grateful - but I do, and it's something else," Genesis says flatly. He'd gotten his own leather coat because he'd gotten inspired by Sephiroth's style - only to soon realise where it actually came from.

He's never known anyone too damn haughty to get a new shirt, before Sephiroth. It would be amusing if it wasn't so irritating. Of course, there's also the fact that whenever they do as much as charge their hairstyle it's newsworthy. Sephiroth is especially sensitive to it, having been in the spotlight all his life. But mostly it was just the man being contrary on purpose, because someone said something, and sometimes Sephiroth just decides to dig his heels in about the weirdest things for no good reason. Like with the hair, oh, Goddess, the hair.

So the idea that Sephiroth is suddenly becoming fashion-conscious…? Highly unlikely. 

Genesis scowls, snapping his phone shut.

Lazard is right - Sephiroth really needs to be assessed, thoroughly. Because either the man has utterly lost his mind… or he's up to something.

-

Cut to SY, sobbing screaming throwing up over a pile of torn shirts.

[dwobbitfromtheshire]

The Right Place in Time

Summary: What if Steve was in the woods with Chrissy and Eddie to buy weed for his headache?

Chapter one

Steve’s in the woods, watching Eddie and Chrissy flirt at the picnic table. He flirted enough, even when he flirted badly, to know those two people were flirting. Chrissy and Eddie? They were definitely flirting. No one hides behind their hair like that and not absolutely be smitten with the other person. Who could blame him, though? Chrissy Cunningham was extremely cute and so sweet. They ran in the same crowd a while back, and before she started dating Jason Carver, they used to talk about their parents whenever they found themselves alone. If she hadn't started dating Jason, he would have asked her out.

Steve’s head was killing him, and he really needed weed, but somehow, he still managed to find Eddie turning himself into an idiot to make Chrissy smile very endearing. He winced and smiled, trying not to come off so agitated, but he didn't think it was working. He sighed loudly.

"Something up your butt there, Harrington?" Eddie asked.

"Just waiting for you guys to get done flirting," Steve scoffed.

"Aw, you feeling left out? Chrissy, I think he's feeling left out," Eddie said.

"He's definitely feeling left out," Chrissy giggled.

"You know, I could flirt with you too, if you need me to," Eddie said coyly.

"Keep it in your pants, Munson," Steve blushed. "I'm only here for weed."

"Well, if you ever want anything else, like what it's in my pants, then I charge extra," Eddie said and leaned toward Chrissy. "For you, Chrissy, you still rob me blind."

"Hm, gonna have to keep that in mind," Chrissy grinned.

Chrissy soon parted ways with them, letting Steve get to his own drug deal. She blew them both kisses before bouncing off into the woods. Steve plopped down in her seat. Much to his surprise, Eddie had given him the same deal that he had given Chrissy. Not long after that, they started to leave the woods together. A fallen tree was laying in their path, and without thinking, Steve held out his hand to help Eddie over. Eddie gladly took his hand and hopped over the tree.

"Very gentlemanly of you, Harrington," Eddie said with a grin and held out his hand.

Steve grinned, took his hand, and leaped over the tree. Suddenly, a green and white blur jumped out at them, hollering. Steve and Eddie both screamed, holding onto each other's hands tightly.

"CHRISSY?!"

"JESUS H CHRIST!"

"Oh, your faces!" Chrissy laughed.

"Why?!" Eddie asked.

"You said that I wasn't mean and scary," Chrissy said and growled at him.

"Yeah, okay, very mean and scary," Eddie said, laughing. "Also, very adorable."

"Aww. Are you guys holding hands?" Chrissy asked. "That's a good idea."

She took Eddie's lunch pail and replaced it with her hand, so three of them were holding hands as they walked through the woods. She giggled as Eddie started swinging both hands wildly.

"So, Chrissy, you still dating Carver?" Steve asked.

"I, uh, actually broke with him before lunch," Chrissy said.

"So, should I say sorry or offer my congratulations?" Eddie grinned.

"Definitely congratulations, I hated that guy," Chrissy said. "He was so - so - "

"Full of himself? Yeah, I'm surprised he never made out with his own reflection," Steve snorted.

"He actually did that once when he was really drunk," Chrissy frowned.

"So, Harrington, how much time do you spend on your own hair?" Eddie asked teasingly.

"That's different. My Grandpa Otis used to love working with hair, and he would get up early to fix his. Sometimes, I would get up with him to watch, and he'd look so happy doing it that I decided I wanted to join. Every morning, we'd get up, put on some music, and we would do our hair together. We did that until. . .until he died. I haven't stopped doing it because when I do, it feels like he's still there with me," Steve shrugged.

"Aww, Steve," Chrissy said softly.

"Well. Now I feel bad," Eddie said.

"Don't be," Steve shrugged.

"You know, I grow out my hair because I look more like my mom when I do," Eddie said, sharing a smile with Steve.

Steve and Eddie gazed at each other, their cheeks pink. Chrissy leaned against Eddie's shoulder.

"You guys are so sweet," Chrissy said softly.

There was a comfortable silence as they walked through the woods together. Once they made it to the treeline, they dropped their hands. Chrissy gave Eddie back his lunch pail.

"Parting is such sweet sorrow, but alas, we must," Eddie said.

"We should all hang out, you know, soon," Chrissy said eagerly.

"Chrissy Cunningham, are you asking us both out on a date?" Eddie asked in amusement.

"You know what? Fuck it. Yes, I am," Chrissy said.

"Well, hell, I'm in," Eddie said. "What about you, big boy?"

"Oh, yeah, I'm in," Steve said with a smile.

"Great," Chrissy said with an excited grin. "I'll see you guys later to talk about the details."

She skipped away and nearly tripped over a root. They watched in amusement as she cursed at it and walked off in a huff.

"You better step up your hair game for our big date, big boy," Eddie said.

"Well, I wouldn't want to disappoint Chrissy," Steve said, and Eddie laughed.

Steve walked away from Eddie with a smile and a spring in his step. His headache was still there, but it seemed like it hurt less. He never thought about dating two people at the same time before, but as long as everyone involved was okay with it, why couldn't it be done? As he thought about Eddie and Chrissy's smiling faces, Steve believed that it really could be done. As he arrived at his car, he spotted Dustin and Mike running around like they were chickens with their heads cut off.

"What the fuck?" Steve squinted.

He approached Dustin, Mike having run off before he could catch him.

"Steve! I tried calling you at work, but you didn't answer!" Dustin exclaimed. "Wait, what are you doing here?"

"I left early. I came here to pick up something for my headache," Steve said. "What are you doing?"

"Did you buy drugs from Eddie?" Dustin whispered.

"Yes," Steve whispered back. "By the way, you were right. We totally did get along."

"Awesome! So, does that mean that you will play with us tonight?" Dustin asked.

"You mean D&D?" Steve asked.

"Yeah?!" Dustin asked, excited.

"No, because I'm going to Lucas's game tonight," he told him. "Why aren't you?"

"Eddie's been working hard on this campaign. He's not going to post pone it because Lucas decided to join the dark side," Dustin scoffed.

"Is that what Eddie said?" Steve asked furiously. "Just when I was starting to like the guy."

"Are you mad?" Dustin asked wide eyes.

"I'm mad at Eddie. I'm disappointed in you," he sighed. "My headache is getting worse, so I'm going to leave now."

Steve turned and walked away, shaking his head. His stomach churned with anger. The dark side? Seriously? Does Eddie not know what he's doing by putting a wedge between them? Lucas shouldn't have to choose. Steve cursed. It looked like he was going to have to break the date with Chrissy.

Chapter two

[joelmillergirl]

Ghost of My Past- Joel Miller

The one where Joel dies.

Word count: 1,136

Warnings: old man Joel, he's getting older and a little weaker, major character death, grief, sadness, angst, legit a snippet of fuff, just missing Joel Miller hours

Author's Note: Sad gurl hours

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jackson used to be bright. A place where you could go out and just be you; never having to worry about what other people were thinking. When you had first arrived, all you could think about was what they were thinking. You were weak, years of fighting infected and humans had taken a toll on you, dirt under your nails and eyebags that didn't seem to fade.

The only person you trusted was Joel Miller.

He had approached you one day during an embarrassing anxiety attack; the sorrowful memories from your past seemingly catching you by surprise. You were hunched over, struggling to breathe when a warm hand suddenly rested on your shoulder, catching you by surprise.

"Try and take some deep breaths." He'd simply said, awkwardly looking down at the ground before meeting your eyes. Admittedly, the warmth from his hands, and the way he'd so softy spoken to you had soothed you instantly. "Are you... Okay?' He asked after a few moments, feeling your shoulders untensing from underneath his palm.

"Sorry." You whisper, shaking your head. "Don't know why that happened." It was insecurity laced between your words. Here you were in a sealed-off community with food, houses, clothes, and good people surrounding you, and you were still anxious about being raided in your sleep.

Joel stiffly took his hand back to his side, mumbling something under his breath, "S'okay. Happens to me too. 'M Joel." He greeted.

You offer up your name, thanking him before going your separate ways. The day after that, you'd knocked on his door, presenting a freshly baked pie to him; 'For helping me.' You clarified when he looked at you with a mix of amusement and confusion.

He was surprisingly very easy to love. He drove you up the walls with his teasing and his small remarks, but he was kind and he treated you better than anyone else had. It didn't take long for you two to start dating, a night together after a few drinks had changed everything, and when he saw you interacting with Ellie, teaching her and loving her- he was gone.

Your favourite time of the day was your nights with him. After a few games of Monopoly with Ellie with buttons and rocks replacing the missing pieces, you'd crawl into bed together, your head resting on his chest. You loved it when he talked, feeling the vibration through his chest when he did. He talked about anything; patrols, his worries about Ellie, Sarah. You listened to every word, asked him questions- some he didn't always answer- and in return, you'd offer your own stories, your own memories.

Joel was always there, everywhere you looked. When you step outside on the newly built porch he'd worked on because of the one time you'd complained about a loose plank, the house down the street he'd built a swing for because of the little boy who'd cried when the old one broke, the words people would speak after his name was brought up in a conversation.

"Hi, baby." He'd whisper in your ear, his chest to your back as you prepared breakfast. He'd stand behind you for a while, admittedly getting in your way but warming you up with his body heat. You held him through the nights he broke down, frustration over Ellie refusing to talk to him, anger over his own abilities slowly weakening with his old age, and sadness when memories of his daughter hit him out of the blue.

'Love you s'much. Don't know what I did to ever deserve this. Don't deserve it."

You had your moments together where he'd spend his nights on the couch whilst you slept in your bed, despite your insisting that you take the couch instead, knowing his back was getting bad. He never said anything cruel to you during these moments of frustration- never raised his voice. He talked it through with you, kissed you after and apologised.

You didn't deserve Joel Miller.

The morning of his death had started rough. After he crawled into bed next to you, breaking down in your arms after talking to you about a conversation he'd just had with Ellie, he turned his back to you and silently went to sleep, your shirt slightly damp from his tears. When you woke up and started breakfast, he was in a rush. He mumbled a goodbye as he walked past the kitchen, on his way to the front gate for his patrol.

"No kiss today, Miller?" You called after him, feeling slightly frustrated with his distant demeanour. It wasn't rare for him to dissociate after breaking down; you sensed it was embarrassment, he thought he was weak. He stopped walking instantly, coming back to the kitchen and leaning down to kiss you. At the last second, you'd moved your head slightly, his lips connecting to your cheek instead. "See you later."

You turned away from him then, listening to the sound of nothing as he stood still for a few seconds before he finally moved, the front door closing gently behind him. You sighed in frustration, knocking back the mug of coffee you'd made for him in his owl cup Ellie made for his birthday a few years back.

You kissed his cold lips later that day, saying goodbye to him one last time before turning away from him, everything aching. When you stepped up onto the porch, you broke down instantly. A plank had started to squeak, who would fix it now? You made it inside after a few minutes, averting your eyes away from the stupid owl mug, his stupid chair he always sat in.

The bed was cold when you got into it. Flashes of Joel's face. Cold. Stuffing your face into the pillow, you breathe in deeply, taking in his scent that still lingered. To think that only a few hours earlier you were in this very bed, warm and close to him. Breathing.

Gone was the presence of Joel Miller. His ghost lingered through everything you looked at, everything you smelt. As you stand amidst the echoes of memories, each corner of Jackson a haunting melody of what once was, tears blur the lines between the past and present. In the stillness and darkness of your grief, you found some solace in the fragments of his love displayed throughout your home.

And as you sit on the porch stairs with Ellie, after hours of begging her not to leave, not to go after whoever had brought such immense pain amongst Jackson's residencies, you could feel yourself embracing the ache of his absence, finding strength in the beauty of a powerful journey. Accepting that you may never be the same, but still allowing yourself to carry his memory with you.

No one deserved Joel Miller.

[fishhawish]

Hi, I came across your account when it, for some reason, popped up on my dashboard and I noticed that you write angst but there's no Gorou posts.

So, I give you a Gorou angst piece. When Kokomi's parents come to his parents with a marriage contract in hand, Gorou is torn between bowing to his parents' wishes to marry Kokomi or remain faithful to you. He eventually gives into the pressure and breaks off his relationship with you to marry Kokomi. On the day before his wedding, you leave Inazuma for Sumeru, where you take up the post as the Matra's medical examiner; a position Cyno has specifically reserved for you.

I'm so sorry I had many casualties being hospitalized again but I'm discharged now and I can hopefully work on some more requests. I am once again sincerely apologizing.

Fading affections

₊✩‧₊˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊

Gorou x reader

(some x Cyno, can be platonic or Romantic you choose)

Angst w comfort!

Warnings: cheating, detailed mentions of war, eloping?? Abandonment of children aka Gorou being a horrible father

Context: Kokomi's parents offer Gorou a contract, little did you know Gorou and Kokomi had an affair this whole time since the start of the war leaving the other side of your bed cold even more often.

★

!Not proof read!

Reposts and likes appreciated

Reqs open but very slow atm

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝

Did it really matter? Did your whole relationship even matter? Three years of trust, love, communication, saftey was all pouring down the drain the moment the general told you that he wanted to separate ways. But You knew everything. You knew that since this horrible war started that he didn't love just You anymore. You did not know who his mistress was, or what you and your family would do. How would the child that You protected with your life. Said child watching their world shatter around them as they listened to their fathers voice.

"Listen, I'll keep this short. We must part ways, I wish to be with Her Excellency, Kokomi. Her parents came to me with their blessings and a mirrage contract."

"Or was it just your affair? Did you ever really want to be with me? Gorou we have a family why do you do this now." You lashed out at him angrily as he looked away, submissive expression on his face. His beautiful bright teal eyes looking anywhere else with visible pain. He didn't love only you, but deep down you both knew you still loved each other. He just didn't want you anymore. All he muttered is small apologies with the heaviest guilt and pressure ever seen on him.

"Get out of my sight please." Is all you can say, signing off the divorce papers and pushing them onto him before walking to your now dull and empty what was once shared room. The room you had so many memories in, joy, sadness, anger, pleasure. And you all overcame them with him. But he was no longer there to share with any longer. No warmth was left in your home with just you and your child. Your family was not whole, would not be whole like it was.

Replaced. You and your child. Gorou used to visit, he was a good dad.. for a short while. Not long after their wedding kokomi fell pregnant. Your kid was already traumatized of the divorce. And now your kid refuses to even go near it's father. What a shame. And yet Gorou can't even see what's wrong. When he's friendly with You, when he tries to bond with his kid. It's so obvious, how much Gorou favors his and kokomi's kid. Good riddance.

It was that moment he realized that you're gone only did he regret everything. Even after watching countless of his friends fall, watching the explosions, the blood, his team mates getting stabbed, the screams, the weapons, the innocent civilians dying at his hands for the war. The people around him begging and fighting for their life and families. Every drink he took, every new wound he endured and yet this wound was permanent. Maybe he didn't love just you, but he loved you. He knew he loved you.

His life dull, his heart begging for you to come back. He tried so hard to find you and yet he couldn't. The last he heard was from one of the Kaedehara clan who said that he has traveled with You and Your child to sumeru. His heart shattered at the words. His last hope of ever speaking to you again falling into a void. He visibly regretted everything. Not wanting to take care of his new family. Violently disgusted in every passionate heated moment with her.

But it truly did not matter any longer. Now that you and your kid where elsewhere, you both would be okay. Your new life travelling as the care taker of the Matra, you eventually became close with him. Your child and Cynos mutual adoration for eachother being so sweet that even you can't help but smile. Them treating each other like family. Not in the way Gorou 'cared' but in their own special way.

You didn't need Gorou, no matter what as long as you had your kid and Cyno you'd be okay. All three of You knew that without anything being said, the care us truly mutual. You can only thank Cyno for ever offering the job to you as his medical examiner. Because of him your kid and you will always be happy and strong now, no matter what all three of you would have eachother and every night, sleeping with that comfort was easy.

"Hey do you want to hear another joke?"

"NO."

Ta-da! .𖥔 ݁ ˖ִ ࣪⚝₊ ⊹˚

[bettyfrommars]

S3, %, 🧡

MegmegmegMEGGGGG niche nightmarescape just for you my love

Your Person is Nightmare Steve

Your Place is a Drive-In Theater

Your Thing is a Halloween Mask

pick your poison

18+ONLY, gore, nightmares, blood, terror, star-crossed lovers, gender neutral reader but the pronouns she/her are mentioned in song lyrics. These blurbs are rattled out quickly from head to throttle, so I hope there aren't too many errors.

word count: 747

He was working as a hotdog vendor when he spotted you that night. Steve pushed the paper devil mask up into his thick mess of hair to get a better look, palming a Wonder bread bun with a messy squirt of mustard.

His mask attached to a modest string, tied in a bow at the back of his head, but yours was latex, a white skull with a ghoul nose and several blacked-out teeth.

Everyone had to wear a mask that night, those were the unspoken rules. Others were coming out of the corn fields in groups, filtering in to find a vacant vehicle to claim. You followed the crowd as if you knew what you were doing, shuffling along under a night sky that burned several shades of twilight blue.

There were green witches and zombies, black cats with yellow eyes, and evil clows with big hair and tiny hats. One had the head of a bird, a raven maybe, and it occurred to you that perhaps that was their real head, though it didn't seem polite to ask.

The one in the devil mask behind the food cart held a limp hotdog on a fork up in the air as if to offer it to you, dripping water, but you just kept walking, pretending not to notice him out of the corner of your vision.

The golden oldie Runaway by Del Shannon crackled out of the speakers, and once it ended, it started all over again. The scattered automobiles might've also been the sight of a junkyard, the way they were all rusted and riddled with bullet holes. Much of the interior was ripped or gutted, the grass dusted with shards of broken glass that nestled there like glitter or fallen stars.

There was condensation inside the confines of your disguise, and you peeled up the bottom to sneak a quick breath. The theater screen loomed blank in the sky, backed by endless, creeping night.

"It's almost time," the devil said. He was in front of you, blocking the aisle toward the screen. He pushed the mask up into his hair so that you could see his face.

"Time for what?" Your heart stuttered at the familiar chocolate suede of his eyes.

He leaned in, whispering. "Time to get out of here, if you know what I mean."

You didn't, but okay.

He turned to lead the way and you followed, up the hay loft ladder to the roof of the projection house. Runaway was on another cycle as Steve took your hand to help you along the ledge, gesturing for you to sit.

A countdown flickered on the screen, but the music was till blaring.

tears are fallin' and I feel the pain

wishin' you were here by me

to end this misery

"I hope you enjoy the show," his voice was different, deeper. Steve squeezed your hand, and you craned your neck to peer down through the eye holes to see the end product of his fingers intertwined with yours.

Once golden skin was now the color of red poppies, you followed the arm up to broad, bare shoulders, a sharp jawline, and two horns that were thick enough to belong to a bull.

A confident smile slashed his mouth to show pointed teeth, and the whites of his eyes were black as coal.

He was no longer wearing a mask. He was the devil.

I wonder

I wo-wo-wo-wo wonder

why why-why-why-why-why

she ran away...

The countdown on the screen ended and was replaced by the flickering scene of a row of cloaked figures in a green pasture with hoods pulled down to hide their faces. If they even had faces.

They stood eerily still for a long while, looming over the gathered patrons in their junkyard vehicles.

But then they were moving, down to the edge of the frame and into the crowd like melting shadows.

People were being dragged from their cars; people were screaming.

People were getting their souls sucked from their meat suits, crumbling to the ground with Jello limbs.

The two of you tilted your heads at the same time to watch blood splatter the now empty pasture scene on the screen.

And I wonder

where she will stay

my little runaway

I run-run-run-run runaway

"Have you thought about where you want to go next?" The devil asked.

You sighed, thinking. More shrieks from down below, more chaos erupting.

"I've always wanted to see Paris."

[ariel-cohen-art]

I just had a dream and I think it's about A.I art, and it gave me an interesting insight I thought I'd share. If you can stand to read a relatively long crazy dream.

I went to a picnic with my college friends (I go to art school. We are all artists then.) There I met, among many of my friends, a very white boy, almost albino looking, who doesn't really exist irl. He offered me chocolate from a foreign brand. Cool thing about that chocolate: Its whole branding was "Hey kids! *You're a changeling*. Here's what the kid you replaced is eating in the fae realm!" (Lowkey awesome branding. Also interesting. I'd always thought about changelings as a human baby being taken to the fae realm, but I never considered the fae kid who stays in their place. How long until they realize they don't belong? Do they ever go back to the fae realm? Btw, I promise all of this is relevant.)

So after the picnic all of us took a bus and went back to an abandoned-ish place. I listened to my "Ode to Loneliness" playlist on the bus (I actually have this playlist. It's the "I wanna be alone bc I don't belong in this world" playlist. I like it.)

Now cut to another scene. A robot actress, at a press conference, basically advertising herself as a product, talking about how her robot company had made her and how realistic and beautiful she was. She *was* beautiful, and actually worked as an actress. But then a guy came and tried to shoot her, to stop her from stealing real actresse's jobs. He missed the shot and the robot had to be removed from the conference.

Now back to me and my group of artist losers. We got to the abandoned place. The reason we were there was because the white boy had been giving a mission by the King of Dreams (Yep. Morpheus himself, Dream of the Endless, the Sandman, The Oneiromancer, ma' boy. ✨️). Now this boy was kinda proud, (... a proud.. boy.. that's why he was white, I love my brain fr) he had a bit of a superiority complex, so he hated the idea of there *being* a god or king of dreams, with power above him, telling him what to do, but he did what Morpheus asked anyway. He created a mummy. (He didn't bring it back to life. I think he used a mummy as a vessel, but the life he created was new, it just incarnated in the mummy. Like Frankenstein.).

So the mummy woke up and started asking who created him and who created his creator. He then got violent and started attacking people and I woke up.

*Ok but what is the point about A.I art in this dream?*

So what called my attention when I woke up was the contrast. The robot artist, a perfect and confident actress. Even when she was targeted by the shooter, she was protected and comforted like a human would. The crowd looked genuinely upset for her.

Meanwhile there's the real human artists. Our messy disaster boy with a questionable personality, feeling commissioned by outside forces beyond his control, yielding to them and creating a monster. Like all art, it was formed out of something that had already existed in the past. A terrifying creation just as messy as he was, full of confusion, anger issues and existential anguish.

That is what a real artist is like. This is how real art is made. Real artists listen to "loneliness playlists" while in a bus full of people they know. We eat our changeling themed chocolates to cope with the fact that we feel like changelings, stuck in the human realm, left behind and out of place. We have questionable personalities and beliefs, massive egos and a ton of existential anguish. Human art is made because we exist and live like that.

While A.I art is perfect, flawlessly beautiful and beloved by the masses, human art is a messy mirror created by even messier artists to reflect who we are. It suffers as we do, it mirrors our questionings, our violence, our deepest thoughts. It is our imperfect monster.

[w1shes43]

Bling to the Ring [J.F]

Jesper Fahey x fem!reader

Summary: Fake marriage, you're already dating, but the place you're going to go on a heist allows only allows a specific married couple.

Taglist: @heliads

A/N: This took forever, but I hope you enjoy!

Masterlist

----☆----

The sound of loud gunshots being fired off in the distance never seemed to faze you. You have lived in Ketterdam for a long time, and that sound is like hearing your everyday schoolbell.

And it definitely helps that a certain sharpshooter is always doing that. Practising his aim, twirling his pearl handled revolvers any time he has the chance. You've become immune to the sound at this point.

Walking down the dimly litted streets, you find yourself strangely calm. You don't know why. Perhaps this is one of your good days, but usually, this means something bad is about to go down. You shrug of all thought of that and walk into the Barrel.

You find yourself scanning the area to look for a certain sharpshooter. You find him at a table in the corner with a drink in his hand. To everyone but the keen eye, it looked as if he was just enjoying his drink, but at close inspection, he was holding his revolvers, ready to shoot at any given moment.

You were debating whether or not to suprise him and see how that would go, but you concluded that wouldn't go so well. You walked towards him, with a small smirk on your face, and sat across of him.

He looked up and locked eyes with you. You could see that he instantly calmed down and loosened up

"Thought you'd be playing cards over on the other table, but seems you've chose a more calm evening, eh?" You joked as you pointed to the drink in his hand. He chuckled and passed it to you, and you took a sip.

He pretended to ponder for a bit and then answered, "Decided to wait for my girlfriend, you know? Didn't want to start anything fun without her. It would be too inconsiderate."

"Well, I'm sure she is thankful Jes." You laughed, putting down the drink to hold his hand.

Over the past few months that you've been together with Jesper were the happiest you've ever been. He always seemed to make you laugh at any given moment and never forgot to include you in heists or anything under the sun.

After chatting along to various topics with Jesper, in your peripheral vision, you saw Inej walking swiftly towards you. You turned your head to greet her, and she nodded your way.

"Sorry to interrupt your moment, but Kaz wants us upstairs in his office." She said, smiling at the both of you and left as quickly as she came.

"She did interrupt our moment, but I didn't want to mention it. She might stab me in my sleep." Jesper gulped but quickly replaced it with a wholehearted laugh. You just rolled your eyes and shook your head with a small smile. He stood up and offered you his arm, you gladly took it.

At Kaz's office, he explained to the three of you that he planned a heist. The reward would be a lot of kruge. Kaz said this information first with a small smirk. He mentioned it being in a huge vault at a heavily guarded place. Only a few people are allowed in, and it's the people who added kruge to the vault.

The catch is that the people who built it only know that it was a married couple who added kruge to the vault. According to Kaz's source, they don't know what the married couple look like but do know their names.

Clearly, he expected you and Jesper to work on this as the "married couple." Inej would sneak in and take out some of the guards to clear your path of entry. But not before you pass the gates with security checks, Kaz made sure to enter you both into the system.

You got yourself prepared before going on the heist. Memorising the names and backstories just in case you were asked, you can only hope Jesper remembered his, too.

You were waiting out on the balcony, listening to the calm, quiet night before you, just hoping everything would go well for the heist. While in thought, you heard footsteps behind you. You knew who it was so you didn't bother turning around and instead answered out loud.

"Hey Jes. You ready?" You asked, turning around and leaning your back on the railings.

"Me? Not ready? Please, do you know me?" He pointed at himself with a smile, "I'm always ready." He laughed and went to lean beside you on the railings. "You doing alright there, love?"

You nodded, "Just hoping this will go well. It usually does, but I just want you to be safe."

He gazed at you intently and pulled you into a hug. You laid your head on his chest and listened to his heartbeat as he spoke, "Come on, we can do this Y/N, we always have." He pulled apart slightly but kept one hand on your waist and the other on your cheek, "Don't back out on me now, darling." He winked, and his actions easily made you to form a smile.

The place where the vault was kept was this mansion like building. The vault was kept underground, so the building on top was just for show or more like security. Trees overlapping the entryway to the building, and layers of gates and guards surrounded the place.

You and Jesper stood to the side, hiding behind a tree right before you entered.

"Ok, about more than a dozen or so guards guarding the front gate." You said, and Jesper nodded. "Stay calm, and it'll all go smoothly."

"My dear wife, let's go get that kruge."

Taking a deep breath, you both walked together to the front gate. You examined the area and saw only a few other people, probably rich people, stuffed with tons of money at their fingertips. The guards asked for identification and checked their names in the system of more paperwork.

When it went to you two, Jesper gave the identification papers, and the guard checked it. He looked at both of you cautiously and you could sense the suspicion.

"We're older than we look," Jesper chuckled, "My wife and I have... uh ... just been eating healthy. For the 34 years we've been together!" You both smiled through the awkwardness and hoped that the guard wouldn't suspect anything.

He gave you both one more glance but nodded, smiled, and handed back the papers. You both thanked the guard and quickly went through the gate. You let out a breath you didn't realise you've been holding in. Well, that's stage one complete, you thought.

Walking past the other gates was a piece of cake after that. Inside the building was less security, so there was less interrogation. It was a huge hall with lots of stairs going up, but what the way down was what you were looking for.

Blending in with the crowd, you and Jesper managed to get down the stairs of the building. Walking past the guards and into the vault room. It was well lit and huge corridor, rows of big vault doors on either side, but they weren't important. The important one you were after was the one with the green vault door, now that had the cheddar. That was at the very end of the corridor, aka the biggest vault there.

Earlier, Kaz had told you that the vault had a pass code but also a word identification. You looked around, and it was surprisingly quiet. You thought there would be at least a few guards, but none? You turned to Jesper, and he was already looking at you, all written on his face the exact same confusion you had.

"Maybe they went for a coffee break?" He laughed, nudging you along to follow him towards the vault.

"Sure and leave the vaults with more than a million kruge unguarded? It seems a bit off to me." Inquiring as you scanned around once more, while Jesper punched in the passcode and word identification.

A hissing sound was made as the passcode punched in caused the vault doors to open. You both glanced at each other eagerly and looked back to see what you had been waiting for. The vault doors opened and you expected to see stacks upon stacks of money.

Instead, you were greeted with two faces, the faces of the couple you were impersonating.

"Who are you, and how did you know the passcode to the vault?" The shorter woman shouted as the man beside her, assuming her husband started to come closer to the both of you, drawing a gun from his right pocket.

"Well, this is awkward," you said worryingly, "perhaps we should start running if we want to not get shot." Starting to take off in the opposite direction back up the stairs.

"Yeahh, good plan. I'll cover fire for us." Jesper said, The man started shooting at both of you, and Jesper shot back with his revolvers.

Suddenly, the alarm was set off, and you knew this was a mess. You could hear lots of footsteps and people shouting to either get out of the way or that they went this way.

You turned a corner instead of going to the stairs, which was your original plan, and went down towards the basement instead. Jesper was still shooting at some guards behind you. You saw an elevator down the hall, which would lead to the back of the building, your escape.

Jesper pulled you into a room, well, it turned out to be a closet. It was dark and stuffy, and the only light source was from the small window above the both of you. Brooms and dust pans were brushing up against you, and you were trying to wriggle out of the small space.

You could hear the guards running past, calling out to find out where you and Jesper were. It is literally the most cliche place to find the robbers, but you were glad they didn't think of it.

"Right, well, I'm not sure how we ended up like this. I'm not complaining though, got a great view from this angle." Although it was a bit dark, you could make out the outline of his smug grin.

"Jesper, as much as I love you, I would really like if we were able to live through this."

"Don't worry, I promise you, you won't get hurt. I won't let you get hurt. In fact, if anyone lays a hand on you I'll-" You cut him off with putting a hand over his mouth as a shadow of a guard was near the door. You hoped he wouldn't open it, and you thought he was about to until you heard the other guards call him over.

You lowered your hand from his mouth and let out a sigh, but Jesper quickly took your hand and placed a kiss on the back of it. "Couldn't let that opportunity go to waste." He winked, "I think the coast is clear we should be able to go now."

You swear this man always wants to give you butterflies every chance he can get. But you can't deny that you do enjoy it.

He opens the doors carefully, and you both make a run for the elevator on the left. Running as fast as you both could go, and this reminded you of your very first heist. It didn't go as planned, but you still enjoyed the adrenaline from it, maybe because you were with Jesper or because you enjoyed the feeling of knowing you'll stay alive at the brink of death.

As you entered the elevator, you pressed the buttons to the back of the building. The elevator wasn't a normal one. It could go all different sides if it wished. The owner of the building thought it would be useful to use to go whenever and wherever he wanted in the building.

You waited impatiently for the doors to close and stood at the side of the elevator while Jesper stood on the left side. Inej is supposed to meet you back outside at the back of the building, with the money, which you don't have.

You rubbed a hand over your face, annoyed. Well, there goes your chance of joy with bathing in some kruge. As if you'd get most of it anyway, Kaz would probably take most of it, to be honest.

Just as the doors were about to shut, you heard something you never knew would frighten you until now. A deafening noise of shock and horror that would twist your stomach into tight knots that would almost make it snap into two. The scene of crimson red blood slowly showing up.

The bullet came at the speed of light, and both of you never expected it. The sound deafened your ears and and everything was blocked out. A ringing covered your ears as you looked over at Jesper, whose normally grey shirt now started flooding with red.

"Well, this was definitely unexpected." He tried to make a joke and chuckle, but he collapsed onto the ground. With shaky knees, you rushed towards him, worry scanning all over your face, and even your eyes started to water.

The doors were closed, and the elevator started moving to the back. You checked him, and thank saints he wasn't shot in the heart, but it was dreadfully close, leave it untreated for too long, and he would die. You rushed to take off the jumper you had on and wrapped it tight around his chest to try stop the bleeding.

"Jes, you're going to be okay, I promise." You tried to reassure him, but honestly, you weren't sure yourself how much time was left.

"I can't die. I'm too amazing," he laughed painfully, so you put a hand on his shoulder to steady him. At this point, you're hoping the elevator moves fast to get him to safety.

"Y/N, I'm serious if anything happens to me. I just need you to know -" he started to speak, but you cut him off. "Jes, please, stop.. I need you to be safe. You're going to be okay." You looked around, hoping that Inej would be here soon to help both of you.

The elevator stopped, and you were now at the back of the building. You helped Jesper up, slinging one of his arms around your shoulder to help carry his weight. And you tried your hardest not to lean too much pressure, so he wouldn't hurt as much. You heard more voices, that of guards, and you both knew it would only a matter of time before they get to you and Jesper.

You tried to hurry to hide behind the old shed on the right side, but you weren't fast enough. And Jesper was getting worse by the minute. You didn't know what was going to happen next. All you saw were guards with flashlights running from your left towards you. And you tried to stop them by pulling out one of Jespers' guns, but suddenly, you felt something sharp hit your leg.

You looked down to see a dart of some type. It was one of those darts that can knock you out flat in just a bit. And you looked back up to Jesper, and he knew you wouldn't be able to carry him up for much longer. He grabbed the gun from your hand and started shooting at the rest of the guards who were armed. You felt dizzy, and you tried to stay awake and keep your balance. You couldn't just leave Jesper by himself. You needed him to be alive more than yourself right now.

Right before your unconsciousness' desire to take over won, you saw a figure taking out the guards and helping Jesper up. And this figure went towards you too, and you tried to get a better look at their face, but the sleep took over.

...

Dark. That was it. All you could sense was your unconsciousness. The feeling of falling asleep but not on purpose. You felt something down in the deep darkness, some hope, some light. Some hope that everything is going to be fine, and you wanted that.

You wanted that so much that nothing mattered anymore except that you wanted everything to be fine, go back to messing around with your friends, be in Ketterdam safe and sound. And what you wanted the most was for your Jesper to be safe and sound.

So you moved. You moved towards the hope. The shining brightness that you so wish to achieve.

You opened your eyes and realised you were in a room, not on the ground outside. But in your room, your bed. You peered around, the light stinging your eyes a bit, but after a while, it adjusted.

Suddenly, you're hit with memories of what happened earlier. You were taken back to The Barrel, but by who? Maybe that mysterious figure was someone you knew?

But right now, that didn't matter. You needed to find Jesper. You needed to know if he was ok and safe. You ran out of your room, hoping to find him.

Suddenly, you bumped into something, or actually someone. This figure turned around, and it was Inej. You gasped in relief and hugged her, she returned it and you had to ask.

"Inej, what happened? I blacked out. Where is Jesper? Is he ok? And-"

"Y/N. Calm down. Everything is fine, Jesper is in his room," You were about to say something, but she cut you off knowing what you were about to ask, "Recovering. And yes, he is fine. You can go see him."

You thanked Inej and quickly made your way to Jesper's room. You took a deep breath and opened the door, and there he was sitting against the headboard of the bed. He had bandages wrapped all over his chest, torso, and arms. It took you a minute to register that he was really ok and alive, and when you both made eye contact, you broke down.

You staggered over to him and hugged him so tight. You never ever wanted to let him go. Your eyes flooded with tears as they ran down your cheek, soaking through his bandages, he returned your hug and kissed your forehead.

"I'm so sorry! I knew something like this was going to happen, and I-" you bawled out into his chest, but he stopped you, taking your face with both of his hands gently and looking you in your eyes.

"Hey! Hey, calm down. It's ok, it's over. I'm here, I'm here with you," he wiped your tears with his thumbs, "right now."

Tracing his thumb over a scratch you had on your face from the heist, he clicked his tongue in annoyance, "I'm gonna get those guys back for hurting you."

"Me? I should be getting them for what they did to you. You're in bandages, love."

"Eh, it's nothing I can't take." He chuckled, "But I do need one thing from you that will make it all better." He whispered, and you knew exactly what he meant as you leaned in towards him.

A kiss was all it took to heal the sharpshooter. He smiled into the kiss because he knew now that he loved you more than ever. And you would always be there for each other, knowing that in his heart was everything to him.

Pulling away, he took the palm of your hand and kissed it, turning it over and looking directly on the ring finger. Rubbing a thumb over it, he pondered for a bit and then looked into your loving eyes.

"I should really add a real ring to that finger now, shouldn't I?"

[captain-mj]

Hiii I just read and love your home video fic and was wondering if you would ever do a part 2? My hearts in shambles <3 thanks for writing and have a good day!

I wasn't sure about this but then thought... why not? I love this style of story so much :)

There was a long pause afterwards. None of them really seemed to know what to do.

Quietly, as if afraid he'd break something, Ghost grabbed a tape. He turned it over in his hands to make sure it was the right one and the quietly replaced it and turned it on.

Soap scooted over, well aware that Ghost didn't like being in the middle of the people. The contact made him uncomfortable. Ghost looked grateful as he settled in next to him. Price sat in his chair on the other side.

The video started. Simon was younger again. Clearly a teen. He was helping his mom put ornaments on the tree, just tall enough to reach the top. She was beaming, but she looked tired.

The door opened and they both shrank a bit as his dad came in. Neither stopped what they were doing though.

"Never wanted him to know how tense he made us." Ghost explained after a moment. "Couldn't let him know."

Soap frowned a little as he watched them. They put an angel on the tree and his mom made a motion to pray.

"Catholic?"

"Protestant. Devout. Took us once when we were little." Ghost leaned into Soap.

Once his dad walked away, they relax and continue decorating. His mom reaches up and ruffles his hair again and Simon beamed.

"You were a mama's boy?" Gaz gasped.

"Yeah. Little bit." Ghost admitted, not sounding ashamed of it. "She was the best Mom I couldn't asked for."

Soap's heart hurt. He gently put his hand on Ghost's thigh.

Tommy came down, smoking. He offered it to Simon who took it. Their mom made a face, but she didn't reprimand them. She shook her head when Simon offered it anyway.

"Get lost boys, I have to wrap presents."

"Mum, don't you think we're a bit old?" Tommy started, despite looking 13 at the oldest. She turned around and gave him a look Soap would recognize anywhere. It was the same look Ghost gave them when they did or said something stupid. He immediately winced. "You're right Mum! We'll go upstairs."

Simon was already going up the stairs and she shook her head. "Those boys."

"Just like me right?" There was their dad again. His voice made Ghost tense.

She smiled. "Yeah, I guess so Frank." She averted her eyes and started to grab the presents from the closet. She wrapped them quietly while Frank watched.

"You spoil them."

"They're kids. It's Christmas. We have more than enough money."

"My money."

She fixed him with a glare so harsh that Soap cringed. "Well, what were you going to spend it on? Needles?"

"Don't fucking talk to me like that Mary."

Before they continued arguing, Ghost turned it off. "Wrong one."

"Ah..."

Ghost put a different one in. This one was of a concert. For the Wiggles.

Tommy and Simon stood out like sore thumbs. Being both taller than most of the parents and dressed in black clothing. Simon had eyeliner on and his hair looked different. Joseph was bouncing between them.

"Wiggles! The Wiggles!!" He bounced up and down even faster and Tommy picked him up.

"Better than the concerts we went to as a kid right Si?"

Simon smiled. "Lot cooler. Isn't that right Joseph?"

Joseph wiggled excitedly and kept yelling about it. He looked so excited and both of them looked happy to be there.

Simon took the camera and Beth stood beside Tommy. "Here to the Wiggles."

"The Wiggles!" The three of them said excitedly, squishing Joseph between them. Tommy glanced at Beth with such an overwhelming amount of love it made Soap jealous.

"You two are sickening."

"Fuck off."

"Language, Beth."

The tiny woman looked like she was going to attack him like a dog. He laughed though and kissed her, the two of them softening.

"Turn the camera off."

"Really?"

"Yeah. We got his reaction. That's all we care about."

The next video was Tommy, a baby Joseph and Simon on the couch. They looked confused.

"I found out today that they didn't want many kids movies."

Tommy shrugged. "Dad didn't like them. Plus they're lame."

Simon mirrored his shrug. "I mean... They're just movies."

"I think you guys would really like the Last Unicorn though."

"Why?" Simon asked, tilting his head.

"Just... thought you'd like it."

There was a brief crackle before showing the movie had been playing. And it was on the speech.

"I can feel this body dying all around me."

She panned the camera to Tommy who was sobbing on Simon's shoulder. Simon's mouth was open and he was staring in what could only be described as devastation.

"You boys okay?"

Tommy sobbed louder. "She... She..." Simon rubbed his back.

"It's okay, Tommy. It's alright..."

She was clearly giggling. "I'm sorry guys. I didn't... Oh dear."

" I can feel it rotting all around me. How can anything that is going to die be real? How can it be truly beautiful?"

Simon crumpled. He covered his face and was completely silent.

"Oh no! Boys!"

Simon shook his head. "That poor unicorn..." He sounded so distressed.

She looked at Joseph who clearly was sleeping. He looked peaceful.

Another crackle as the video was turned off and back on. Simon recorded Beth and Tommy sleeping on top of each other. He turned off the TV and they could see that he was wearing eye makeup.

"I fucking hate kid's movies." Simon growled as he closed the camera.

"I still fucking hate kid's movies. She showed us Bridge to Terabithia a week after that. I fucking feel for it again."

"Did you cry?"

"No."

Price shook his head. "Because you can't. Don't let him fool you."

Soap decided to be bold. "The video you walked in on."

"It came a few weeks after I got back." Ghost explained. "Tommy picked me up. I still had bandages. Stuck in that stupid hospital for four months and I still had bandages."

Soap squeezed his hand. He wanted to provide some comfort.

"He was a great little brother. Fucking Dick. But a great little brother." Ghost squeezed his hand.

Price stood up and searched. He clearly had something specific in mind and Soap wondered how many times he had watched them.

The video that came on was of a hospital. A very tired looking Beth was laying down in the bed.

"You alright?" Simon asked.

"Yeah. I'm good. They said this labor was easy. Easy." She smiled up at him.

"You know I don't think childbirth can be that bad. I was pretty young but it didn't hurt me." Simon smiled.

Beth stared at him for a minute before pinching her nose. "That was awful. This is why you're fucking single." Her shoulders were shaking as she clearly laughed.

Simon laughed and put his arm around her. "I'm glad you're okay though."

Beth hit him hard in the gut and he groaned but still smiled. "Gonna hold the baby?"

"Absolutely not."

"Come on. What are you afraid of? He doesn't have teeth."

"What if I drop him?"

Beth blinked. "You hold sniper rifles all day."

"I can't shoot a sniper rifle. And if I drop a rifle, it doesn't get brain damage."

"Hold the damn kid, Simon. You're an uncle now."

Simon did not look pleased. He didn't get to respond though because Tommy appeared with a freshly cleaned infant. Immediately he tried to hand it to Simon who pulled his hands away unsure.

"Dude. Come on."

"I've never been around babies before!"

"Neither have I! You just support the head you numpty."

Simon very awkwardly took the baby, smushing him to his chest. He grinned awkwardly.

"Did you tell him the name yet?" Beth asked.

"Joseph right? Bit of a lame name honestly." Simon didn't take his eyes off the tiny bundle.

"Joseph Simon Riley." Tommy said softly, smiling just a little.

Simon looked up before biting his lip like he was holding back tears. "Oh..."

"Thought it was only natural. If my son turned out like you... well. He wouldn't be half bad." Tommy smiled at him.

Simon cradled Joseph just a little closer to his chest and nodded. "I'd never let anything happen to you guys."

Tommy laughed. "I know, you goof."

The video continued on but it didn't seem very important all of a sudden. Ghost had turned away, hand now digging into Soap's thigh to ground himself.

"I did. I did let something happen."

"Simon." Price started.

Ghost just shook his head. "Don't worry Price. I'm fine. I'm glad I have them back."

Soap wondered if it was the videos themselves or the people in them that he was referring to.

"You okay Ghost?"

"Yeah. I will be. I'll get there."

Soap watched Ghost. He really didn't cry. But he could see the depth of grief there. He had been lucky enough to never experience it.

"You want a cup of tea?"

"Yeah. I'd love that."

[wizardofgoodfortune]

Gonna go ahead and ask you #58 on your Spotify wrapped while I'm thinking about it

#58 on my top songs is mirrorball by taylor swift! this is definitely one of my fav songs from her, if not The Favorite; a vivid music video plays out in my head every time i listen to it. here's my favorite part from it, which can definitely lend itself to particular dreamling scenarios... like 1989.

And they called off the circus, burned the disco down When they sent home the horses and the rodeo clowns I'm still on that tightrope I'm still trying everything to get you laughing at me I'm still a believer but I don't know why I've never been a natural, all I do is try, try, try I'm still on that trapeze I'm still trying everything to keep you looking at me

---

When his stranger didn't show up in 1989, Hob spent the whole day waiting for him. The whole night, too. He heard the last call but stayed long after, until the bartender—Ian was his name, Hob learned at one point—had to kick him out so they could lock up. To Ian's credit, he did it with his most apologetic face.

"Sorry, Hob," Ian said as he locked up the front door of the tavern. "Feel free to come back 'round tomorrow. Promise the place'll still be here by then."

Hob, who was hovering listlessly beside him, gave him a smile. "You'll regret you said that."

Ian laughed. "I'll never regret having more regulars. God knows we need it."

Hob frowned. Right. He nearly forgot about that.

"Need a lift?" Ian offered, fishing out a different set of keys from inside his pockets. "You've drunk quite a lot."

"I'm fine, I just need to—" Hob took a deep breath, "—I need to walk it off."

Ian narrowed his eyes. "Sure? I better not read about you in the papers tomorrow."

Hob snorted. "Trust me, you won't."

With that, Hob stood in front of the tavern and watched Ian drive off, until the old man rounded a corner and disappeared.

Now that he was alone, Hob slumped down on the damp ground and leaned against the front door. They've probably replaced this door more times than he could count, along with the rest of the tavern. Century after century, Hob saw less and less of what used to be here 600 years ago: the chairs, the tables, the mugs, the godawful drinks. The closest thing to permanence this tavern had was its name, and, up until tonight, his stranger. And soon, it wouldn't even have itself.

Hob reached into his coat pocket and took out his lighter and a carton of cigarettes. As he watched London's everchanging skyline glitter above the Thames, he lit a cigarette, the orange of it glowing in the dark. He sat there, waiting, waiting, waiting. He was good at that, at waiting. All you had to have for waiting was time, and Hob had it in abundance. So he waited until the sun rose, until the streets came alive with cars and people, until Ian came back to open up.

"Oi, what happened to walking it off?!" Ian exclaimed, standing over Hob, shielding him from the noon sun. "Bloody hell. C'mon now. Up you go."

Hob let himself be corralled into the tavern's small office and be sat at the small couch that was probably meant for interviews and terminations. He drank the water and aspirin placed in front of him, and he wore the spare shirt lent to him, but he left Ian's questions unanswered.

"Y'know," Hob started as soon as Ian came back in from the bar, "I reckon I could do a good job running a tavern."

"You should be asleep," Ian said accusatorily.

Maybe he should've been. But instead, Hob was sitting upright, wide awake. "I've been in countless taverns, just like this," he continued, "and I reckon I could make a great one. It would be so great that people from all over the world would come to eat and drink there, and say, 'Hey look, it's Hob's tavern, the greatest one around!' And d'you know what the best part about it would be?"

Ian sighed and leaned on his desk. "What?"

"It would be so great that they'd never close it down. They wouldn't be able to. Everyone would rally around it, even the council. And it'd be there for, for centuries. No, millennia. No, forever."

Ian shook his head, smiling. "A beautiful dream."

"A dream?" Hob scrunched his eyebrows. "You don't believe me?"

"Hob, this tavern has been here for centuries. That's a pretty good run, I'd say. Before that, it might've been something else, like a house, or a barn, or something. And before that, it was probably an empty plot of land, or maybe it was full of trees. Maybe bloody dinosaurs lived and died here. Or maybe it was underwater, I dunno. But I'm getting away from the point," Ian said, scratching his scraggly beard. "The point is: things change. That's life."

Suddenly, Hob was reminded of that night a hundred years ago, how his stranger detested the implication that he changed, that he grew to be lonely, lonely enough to seek out companionship. Hob's companionship. Obviously he detested the implication enough to not show up yesterday. But maybe, just maybe, his stranger will show up again today or the next day, just to prove a point, just to say he didn't need him to be his friend, and to say goodbye for the last time. Surely his stranger's not cruel enough to not show up at all, right?

"I, I know, but I can't let this place change, at least not yet," Hob said. His desperation must've plain on his face from the way Ian smiled sadly at him.

"And why's that?"

"My friend and I," Hob paused, thinking about what to say, "this place is important to us."

"You can always find another place."

"He won't," Hob said, voice breaking, "he won't be able to find me."

"How sure are you that he won't?"

Hob put his head into his hands. "I'm sure."

"You don't have his number?"

Hob shook his head.

Ian sighed. "Well, like I said last night, you'll need a lot of money to—"

"I have the money," Hob blurted out.

"What's that?"

"I," Hob repeated, raising his head in realization, "I have the money."

Ian only looked at him.

"I can, I can keep this place alive until he comes back."

Ian regarded him wordlessly for a few more seconds, then said, "I appreciate the thought, I do, but I reckon you can just establish a new one and it'll be less expensive. You can always, I dunno, put up some signs. 'This way to the new tavern' or something. Then when your friend comes around, they'll just read your sign and go to the new tavern."

Hob stared at Ian, mouth hanging open. Then he laughed, feeling a sleep-deprived lightness in his chest. He stood up and held Ian by his shoulders, still smiling. "Ian, you're a genius."

Ian chuckled heartily. "I try."

"And you're a hired genius."

"Pardon?"

"I'll need a bartender for the new tavern," Hob said, grinning.

Ian scoffed in disbelief, but he was smiling. "And what'll you name it?"

Hob thought for a second, then settled on: "The New Tavern."

Ian chortled. "You need sleep. Dearly."

---

send me a number and i'll write something based on the corresponding song in my spotify wrapped!

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Kicho's Main Story Chapter 5 Part 2

These translations are not intended as a replacement for the game. Please support cybird by buying their stories. JP SPOILERS under the cut. Expect mistakes.

Kicho: "It's true that everything you need in life is given to you here."

Kicho: "But that's not the same as this. As long as I'm here, I'll give you a payment based on my standards."

Kicho: "That's why, if you want anything, just say it."

Kicho pointed his finger at a shop with a curtain in front of it.

Kicho: "For example, this shop sells cosmetic products."

Kicho: "It's probably nothing compared to what you have in the future, but this one offers high-quality products."

Kicho: "There are also books, figurines, hairpins, and most other things you could find on this street."

Mai: "Oh, nice! It's like the shopping mall of the Sengoku period."

(I don't know what I want, but I'd like to see everything.)

Mai: "Then can I start with that one first?"

Kicho: "Sure."

And so, with bouncy steps, I went to a couple of shops with him, after which we went into an eatery for a break.

Kicho: "Well, have you decided yet?"

Mai: "No."

Kicho: "To think that after all those shops we've been to, you didn't find anything you wanted."

Mai: "Sorry. They're all pretty, but I don't think I need them."

(Nothing really comes to mind when people say I can have anything.)

(Unless there's something I want, I'll just enjoy looking at different things and be happy with it.)

Kicho: "Well, it's okay. Take your time and choose."

Mai: "But the time一"

Kicho: "You're already aware that there's no more work after this, as you're sharing the schedule with me."

Kicho: “In the first place, I’m the one who brought this up. I’m not gonna rush you.”

Mai: “Thank you. Then I’ll take your word for it and think about it for a little longer.”

Kicho: “Yeah.”

Kicho: “More importantly, we’re gonna eat now. You can at least decide what you want to eat.”

Mai: “Okay! Leave that to me!”

As prompted, I looked up at the paper on the wall.

(Wow, the soba noodles look delicious. The grilled skewers look yummy too.)

(No, the stew is not easy to ignore, either. I’m pretty sure it’s well-seasoned.)

Mai: “I’m so torn.”

Kicho: “I just heard your lively reply earlier.”

Mai: “Because look at this shop’s menu!”

Mai: “It's unfair to put all this delicious-looking food together.”

Kicho: “.............”

Mai: “Sorry! I’m really indecisive when it comes to these things.”

Mai: “Alright! I’m just gonna do an eeny, meeny, miny, moe on this.”

Kicho: “Pfft.”

Mai: “Kicho!?”

He suddenly burst out laughing, making me widen my eyes.

Kicho: “The popular food in this restaurant is the skewers you see written there.”

Kicho: “We can order that for today and ask for a different one the next time we're here.”

Mai: “Sure, thanks for the suggestion.”

(Even though it wasn’t the first time I’d seen it, it still surprised me.)

(His smile is bad for my heart.)

We then finished our meal and went back out into the street.

Mai: "It was really good. I can see why that one is popular."

Kicho: "I see. You like it."

Kicho: "Then, let's continue shopping. Tell me if there's anything you want to see."

Mai: "Okay, thank you."

(That being said, what else would I like to see?)

(I feel like I've seen more than enough stuff already.)

Mai: "Ah!"

I spotted something at the end of the street and walked up to it as if I was being drawn in.

Mai: "Hey, look at all these fabrics. The colors are so beautiful."

Mai: "Um, can I go inside the shop?"

Kicho: "Yeah, do whatever you want."

I quickly entered the shop and looked at the fabrics one by one.

(This elegant one has a soft milky white color. And the pattern is rhododendron?)

(This indigo is also pretty. If the obi is a lighter color, I'm sure一)

Slowly, the cloths took on the shape of a kimono, with an obi wrapped around it.

(Yup, nice. A lovely combination.)

Kicho: "You're very passionate about this."

Mai: "Sorry, I got caught up in my own world."

Kicho: "I knew this shop was for you. Your reaction is different from the other shops we visited."

Kicho: "Here, look at this."

Mai: "Wait! Is that a velvet?"

Kicho: "Yeah. This shop also sells fabrics from other countries."

Kicho: "I'm sure they have more. Tell me what you like."

Mai: "What?"

Kicho: "It's my reward for you."

Kicho: "You can make whatever clothes you want out of whatever you choose."

Kicho: "You'll also need a set of needles. If we backtrack down the road, I'm sure we'll find a shop that sells them."

Kicho: "Let's get them later, okay?"

Mai: "Okay!"

(I'm so happy! I can make clothes again.)

Kicho called the shopkeeper, who explained and helped me choose some fabrics, then we bought a set of needles.

On our way home, he looked ahead and glanced at me.

Kicho: "Is there anything else missing?"

Mai: "No, it's more than enough. Thank you very much."

(It's supposed to be a reward for my work, but is it really okay to get this much?)

(He's done a lot for me, so I'll give him a gift in return.)

(Now that it's decided, I need to think about what kind of clothes to make.)

When I was at Azuchi Castle, Hideyoshi got me to help as a seamstress, but because I didn't have much experience sewing kimonos, I had to assist everyone else.

Thinking that I could make it myself, I began to get more and more ideas in my head.

(As I thought, a kimono would be a safe bet. I'll make it in light and calm tones that are typical of him.)

(Oh, but we have a lot of business meetings, so maybe a foreign outfit?)

Kicho: "Mai, come here."

Mai: "Eh? Why一"

Mai: "Waah!?"

Just as his arm went around my shoulder and pulled me close, a rushing person walked past right next to me.

(I didn't notice him at all.)

Mai: "Sorry, thanks."

Kicho: "Good grief, it's okay to get carried away, but keep your eyes on the road."

(Oh…)

As if to criticize my actions, Kicho tightened his arms around me, and I could feel the strength and warmth of his arms, making my heart beat faster.

Kicho: "If you fall and injure your hand, you won't be able to make clothes."

Mai: "You're right. I'll be careful."

Mai: "Sorry."

(I've been out of sorts ever since I saw the fabrics. I really have to be careful.)

I moved away from him, reflecting on the situation, when...

Motonari: "Heh, looks like you guys are getting along pretty well."

Mai: "Motonari!"

Kicho: "Why are you here?"

Motonari: "I have some business with you, but am I interrupting?"

Motonari: "I didn't expect to see you guys so close to each other in broad daylight."

Motonari: "I heard that you keep her around to monitor her, but I guess this is your aim."

Kicho: "I wouldn't keep a suspicious person in the trading post for such stupid reasons."

Motonari: "Hey, hey, don't answer so seriously. I was just joking."

Motonari: "You don't have to take this countryside girl seriously. With that face, you can get any woman you want."

(Hm? Countryside?)

(So he didn't tell him I came from the future.)

Kicho only shook his head without losing his cool expression.

Kicho: "I don't need it. I have no interest in love."

Kicho: "What happened earlier was only necessary to prevent an accident."

Mai: "That's right. He just saved me!"

Motonari: "Heh."

Motonari smirked and glanced at me, his red eyes teasing me.

Motonari: "You're not convincing anyone with that face."

Mai: "What face?"

Kicho: "Don't worry about it, Mai. He just wants to get some satisfaction out of you."

Mai: "What look is he saying?"

I put my hands on my cheeks and found them faintly hot.

(Am I blushing?)

Kicho: "More importantly, Motonari, if you need me, let's talk at the trading post."

Kicho: "It's probably about that thing. Also, I have something to tell you."

Motonari: "Yeah."

Mai: "Um, what's this all about?"

Motonari: "Oi, oi, are you ignoring my advice again? I told you it's better not to step in too much."

Motonari: "The fact that you're watching him so intently that it looks like you're his lover from the outside means you're not worth trusting."

(-----!)

Motonari: "If you don't want to wear a collar, you'd better behave yourself."

Kicho: "Mai, I'll have those items delivered later. Stay in your room when we return to the trading post."

Mai: "Understood."

With Motonari's words stuck in my heart, the three of us walked down the road, the setting sun shimmering in the distance.

(Kicho still doesn't trust me.)

(I knew that, but it still hurts when it's put into words.)

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

Sasuke: "You're really here."

Sasuke: "I finally found you. Mai."

The day after Kicho and I went into town一

Mai: "I'm finally done checking and organizing these documents!"

After stretching, I put together the bundle of papers.

(I didn't take a break, so I finished early. I think it's already past lunchtime.)

(I don't have anything to do after this, so maybe I can help someone else with something.)

(Oh, but first一)

I got up from the chair and picked up the perfume I wear every day.

(I don't know what's gonna happen, but I've got to look presentable, just in case.)

As I left the room and went down the hallway, I saw, as expected, a guard standing near the entrance.

(Someone's here.)

(As expected. He's so shrewd.)

------------Flashback------------

Kicho: "Mai. I'm going out with Motonari today. You stay here, okay?"

Mai: "Are you sure you don't want me to accompany you?"

Kicho: "Yeah, my men are there. You can freely move around here, but don't go outside."

Kicho: "I'll be back by nightfall."

---------Flashback Ends---------

(Going out with Motonari, huh? They are probably just going to resume their talk yesterday.)

(He doesn't want anyone to hear it, but that's exactly what I want to know.)

(Also, it's not like I can inform someone even if I know.)

Mai: "Alright, time to help with some cleaning."

I was about to turn back down the hallway to get a rag when一

Male voice: "Excuse me, I have a delivery for you."

(It looks like someone's here.)

(I feel like I know this voice.)

Kicho's subordinate opened the door, and the owner of the voice entered, carrying a large package.

Sasuke: "Hi. Sarutobi delivery at your service."

Sasuke: "These are the items you ordered yesterday, miss."

(Sasuke!?)

Mai: "Long time no see! I almost called your name there."

Sasuke: "Yeah, thank God you kept your mouth shut."

Sasuke: "If they found out that you and I knew each other, we wouldn't be able to talk like this."

Mai: "Yes. It's really nice to talk to you."

Mai: "I think the last time we saw each other was when we had tea at Azuchi. What have you been up to since then?"

Sasuke: "My employer told me to return."

Sasuke: "It would probably distract you, so I didn't tell you."

Sasuke: "I told you about Kenshin Uesugi, remember? I'm a ninja under him."

(This means that Sasuke and I are enemies in the eyes of others.)

(That's why he didn't tell me the details.)

Sasuke: "But when I returned to the castle, I found that the turbulent world was in serious trouble again, so this time, I came undercover to the border instead of Azuchi."

Mai: "I see. Then we're the same."

Sasuke: "Are you here as a spy too?"

Mai: "Yeah. Actually..."

When I briefly told him how I came here and my current situation, Sasuke was surprised but kept his usual expression.

Sasuke: "So that's what happened. That must've been tough."

Sasuke: "So, one of the people you were with in town yesterday is Kicho?"

Mai: "The one with the black hair is Kicho. Wait, you saw us yesterday?"

Sasuke: "Yeah, I saw you guys are pretty close."

Mai: "What? Oh!"

(Maybe he saw us from the time when Kicho hugged me?)

I felt my cheeks burning as Sasuke tilted his head at me.

Sasuke: "How do you feel about him?"

Mai: "Well..."

Mai: "I guess he's someone I don't want to become my enemy."

Mai: "I went undercover because I thought he was a bad guy, so I didn't really understand him during our time together."

Mai: "Of course, I'm a pacifist. That's why it's been difficult."

Sasuke: "I think I kind of know the feeling."

Sasuke: "People usually don't consider their enemies human beings."

Mai: "Yes."

Mai: "Anyway, I don't have any special feelings for him."

Sasuke: "Really?"

Mai: "Huh?"

Sasuke: "Sorry, I'm not trying to interfere with your feelings, but I just thought that if something were to happen, you, the spy, would suffer."

Sasuke: "And as your friend, I can't overlook that."

Mai: "Sasuke..."

The seriousness of his eyes showed that he wasn't lying.

(He's saying this because he's worried about me. He's really a good friend, but一)

Mai: “Don’t worry. No matter what happens, I won’t bend my beliefs.”

Mai: “I know it’s not easy to live in this turbulent world, and all lives are important.”

Mai: “That’s why I want to make a path where even one of those lives can be saved by my justice.”

Sasuke: “I see. That’s a relief.”

Sasuke: “Then, as your friend, I’ll help you.”

Mai: “Are you sure? That'll help a lot.”

Mai: “Oh, but I can’t run away from here.”

Sasuke: “No problem. You’re here with Mitsuhide, right?”

Mai: “Yes, I haven’t seen him for a while, so I don’t know if he’s still in Sakai.”

Sasuke: “Don’t worry, I’ll look for him. I stayed in Azuchi for a while, so I know his face.”

Sasuke: “If I can contact him safely, I’ll report to him for you.”

Mai: “Eh? Is that okay? You’re Kenshin’s一”

Sasuke: “Yeah. I’m a Nokizaru ninja, but remember, I'm also your friend and a pacifist."

Mai: “Okay. Then I’ll share the information with you.”

(His being here probably means that Kenshin and Shingen are also wary of Kicho.)

(Also, I don’t think getting this information around will affect the Oda army.)

While sorting everything in my head, I told Sasuke that Motonari Mouri was still alive, the number of weapons, and his goal of continuing the turbulent world.

Sasuke: "Continuing the turbulent world?"

Mai: "Keep this a secret, but Kicho also experienced time slipping like us."

Sasuke: "There's someone other than us!?"

Mai: "He was originally from this period, but apparently, he saw the future through a wormhole and came back."

Sasuke: "I see. So you mean to say that he decided to continue living here even after seeing the unification of Japan."

Sasuke: "What the hell happened to him? Or maybe he got affected by the distortions."

Mai: "Distortion?"

Sasuke: " I believe the Kicho in history was a woman."

Sasuke: "She was the daughter of Dosan Saito, the Lord of Mino, and was also known as Princess Nohime."

Mai: "So, this Kicho who is here now is..."

Sasuke: "I don't know all the details, but I guess he was affected by the distortion of history."

Previous Part╏Masterlist╏Next Part

[stars-over-new-jersey]

Upgrades

KITT disapproves of modern cars. Especially when Michael is showing too much interest in one. AO3 link

Michael strolled out of the restaurant, pausing to take in the clean lines of the sleek metallic gray Corvette parked next to KITT before turning back to his longtime partner.

KITT's door refused to open.

"C'mon buddy," Michael said.

KITT remained silent, dashboard and door sensor dark.

Michael rested his arms on KITT's roof and looked down into the window. "Buddy, we're kind of out in public here. People are going to think I'm crazy."

No response came from the black Trans Am.

Michael sighed and walked around the front of his car. The scanner in KITT's nose quickly stopped its back-and-forth sweep and shut off as soon as Michael came round the front of his partner, but not fast enough to escape Michael's notice.

"Ha!" Michael said. "Knew you were playing possum. Now open the door, please. I've already had to deal with the board of trustees tonight."

KITT's scanner and dashboard lit back up, but his door remained locked when Michael tried it again.

"Will you at least tell me what's wrong?" Michael asked in exasperation.

"I saw you looking," KITT replied. "You want to replace me." Michael sighed and looked up at the sky, where a crescent moon hung blurred in the eternal Los Angeles smog.

"KITT, I'm not going to replace you," he replied.

"Why else were you looking at that…. that thing," KITT replied peevishly. "It's not like I have anything to offer you anymore. "

"What?" Michael nearly shouted. "KITT, how can you say that?"

"Its communication systems are just as good as mine, it responds to voice commands, and even its dashboard looks like mine," KITT groused. "I know I'm outdated. I can tell when I'm going to be replaced."

"KITT, first, I am not abandoning you for scrap in a restaurant parking lot," Michael said sternly. "Second, there aren't many ways to mount a screen in a car dashboard that look half-decent, so of course it looks a bit like your dashboard. Now, will you let me in, or do I need to call RC to bring the mobile unit out with the winch?"

A long beat of silence ensued, but KITT's door popped open.

Michael slid into the driver's seat, his knee joints popping loudly as he tucked himself into KITT's low-slung cabin.

"And here you thought I'd trade you for a car that's even lower to the ground," Michael quipped. "At my age I'd never get back out of that thing."

"Michael, please don't joke about replacing me," KITT said.

"KITT, how long have we been working together?" Michael asked, yanking his tie free and tucking it in the glove compartment.

"Forty-one years, five months, and three days," KITT replied.

"Did I replace you when the tech crew created Domino?" Michael asked.

"No."

"Did I replace you when the lab teams created the nanobots for the Knight Industries Three Thousand?"

"No."

"So what makes you think, after forty years and I don't even remember how many upgrades, that I would replace you with a production-line Corvette?"

"You once told me that humans like new things. Fashionable things," KITT said. "I know the new Corvettes are considered fashionable, and you were looking."

Michael sighed, staring at the LED equalizer bars of KITT's voicebox that had remained unchanged at KITT's own request through hundreds of dashboard updates, and racked his memory for a long moment.

"I guess I did say that," Michael said. "KITT, fashion has cycles. Things come in and out of fashion. Anything that stays around long enough becomes fashionable again."

"So you're settling for me," KITT said sulkily. "It's not like you need my turbo boost or oil slick since you took over the directorship and stopped going out on missions. You don't need me anymore."

"There he is," a voice said. "We didn't miss the meeting after all." A bullet bounced off KITT's windshield and shattered the driver-side window of the Corvette.

"KITT!" Michael shouted. "What's going on?"

"It appears someone was preparing an ambush for the Knight Foundation board," KITT replied. "They arrived late."

"And you didn't warn me," Michael said, glaring at KITT's dashboard. All three screens were now lit up and displaying information on the status of KITT's systems and the holographic heads-up display was tracking the gunmen. "KITT, you were supposed to be in surveillance mode."

KITT remained silent.

"KITT," Michael ground out his partner's name through clenched teeth. "KITT if this isn't evidence that I still need you, I don't know what is."

"Finally," KITT said. The holographic countdown appeared in the heads-up display, and KITT's turbine fired up.

Michael grinned as he backed out of the parking space and aimed KITT at the exit of the parking lot.

"Let's see how far they'll chase us," Michael said. "I want to see if we can get them all the way to the police station."

[wolfsbane44]

--Break Me-- Cassian x Azriel x Nesta

Summary: Nesta cant stop thinking about her mate, noticing someone else is watching only makes her want him more. She begs for it.

Warnings: NSFW! 18+, FILTH, ABSOLUTE FILTH. f! masturbation, Oral (f!/m! receiving), bondage, choking, praise kink, penetration, dp, unprotected sex, bisexual tendencies, Dom/sub/switch, ITS ALL HERE!

This is lengthy (hint hint lol) but YES SO WORTH IT!, Let me know if you want more. 2903 words.

Nesta had been thinking of Cassian all morning. Through training, through her horribly bland lunch of eggs and toast. The way he had come undone just at the touch of her hand through his leathers. Her hand slightly grazed the spot on his wing that made him come crashing down from the stars in the hallway in the House of Wind. She knew that Azriel had been listening to them- just as the next morning when she let Cassian fuck her throat. She was so raw that she could barely speak that afternoon when Clotho had given Nesta her daily work assignment. Level 5 was where she left off yesterday, knowing that was what awaited her brought comfort as there weren't many priestesses to talk to. Letting her body, mind, and throat rest. 

Nesta thought she saw Gwyn out of the corner of her eye but when she turned no one was there. She spun around to resume her never-ending reshelving when before her stood Merrill. Knowing she was about to get a tongue lashing- not the kind she preferred- Nesta took a small breath- to let her thought to pass over her and let it go. Her Valkyrie training had proven its value time and time again when the gods-forsaken Merrill came to visit her. Drowning out words for breaths letting each thought wash over her and then leave. Her mind wandered to her mate. Cassian. She wondered if he enjoyed the taste of what she could do for him. Hoped it left him longing for more. Wondering why Azriel listened in each time, longing to interrupt. Merrill finished her argu- bitching- that's what it was, all she was good at anymore. Ever since she found Nesta replaced ONE book for Gwyn. 

Nesta sat in her bath soaking after she had cleaned up. The house had offered her a new scented potion that she had absolutely decided was her favorite. Lemongrass and ylang-ylang, the scent of desperate longing spring. Maybe Nesta decided after all just because one bad thing came from The Spring Court didn't mean it was all bad. She had thanked the house for the gift, acknowledged with a breeze from the curtains in the bathing room. As quickly as that wind had started it came to a halt. There was a soft and gentle knock on her door. Not Cassian, his was much heavier, more urgent- needy. Azriel. Nesta yelled for him to come in, reaching for her towel and robe. One look at the shadowsingers face let her know what he was thinking-needing. She knew he hadn't bedded anyone in years, although she couldn't imagine a night without some type of release. Even at her own hand. She had never seen emotion on Az’s face before other than when he let people see it. She knew this was pure desperation, he wanted her to know. “Cassian and I won't be back in time for training tomorrow so Clotho agreed to let you work in the morning and train in the evening.” With those words, Az was gone just as quickly and quietly as he had come.  

Nesta settled into bed, fresh clean linen caressing every new muscle and curve. Welcoming her bare skin into warmth. Her mind floated to her mate and what he could do to her. She had taken him in her mouth. All of him. In her mind that itself was a victory as she had never seen a man or high fae with so much to offer. Cas often joked about his wingspan being proportionate to his member, she just thought he was kidding, but now knew that to be true. Wingspan… Azriel had an even bigger wingspan than Cas, she wondered if that too had --cauldron blessed she needed to quit thinking about this. She could feel her wetness and heat at her core. She tried to push her mind back to her mate and think about all of the ways she wanted him to take her. On the bed, in the bath, on the wall, the dining table, the private library, she wanted to feel his tongue against her bud. Wanted not to just see and hear his reaction to his first taste of her core, but what he would feel. 

This thought had Nesta squirming in her sheets. She lowered a hand to her breast and kneaded it as if it were Cassian's hands touching her. Leaving a sharp pinch on the brim of her nipple as she let her hand explore further. With her other hand on her breast, she explored the wetness between her soft but swollen folds. Arousal pooling on the bed below. Her finger began working slow gentle circles on her clit. Occasionally dipping down to collect wetness and bring it back up. Nesta brought her fingers to her mouth and suckled on them, almost whimpering at the thought that she could beg Cassian to do this to her. She knew he would make her beg for more, so she teased herself. Letting those small circles roar into quick hard passes to stop and plunge her fingers into her core. Spreading herself out, she didn't want to cum. She wanted to be stretched out and absolutely fucked raw before that release. 

She knew Azriel and Cassian had left to deal with lord knows up at the camps so she was alone tonight. She knew she could do whatever she pleased. She asked the house not to snoop on her prior and to completely disappear until she asked for it to return. Knowing that she was truly alone she made her way to the private study completely nude, carrying a stone-hard phallus in her hand. Nesta splayed herself before a window, seeing the stars and the city below, no one knowing what she was doing. She felt the cold stone in her hand and introduced it to her entrance. Teasing and whining- there were no stopping her moans when she had thrust it inside. Feeling the stretching, slightly painful but beyond pleasurable. Her other hand returned to make small gentle circles on her clit. Sliding the member in and out of her ever so gently at first had now turned into hard and fast thrusts. Nesta felt that tightness in her core beginning to wash over her just as she heard footsteps behind her. Fuck.

“Holy Mother” Azriel whispered. Cassian standing next to him with his own arousal hardening in his leathers, siphons glowing a bright firey red. Nesta quickly collapsed and covered herself with whatever she could find. Embarrassment and anger came to her already blushed face. She didn't know what to say, as both men looked at her in awe. They weren't supposed to be home, they had told her that! Something must have happened. Neither said anything, but Cas swallowed hard. Nesta didn't get her release and both could sense this in her- sense her longing. “ I can help you if you want” Cas finally breathed. Nesta stopped and thought of what she truly wanted. Them both. “ I am calling in my bargain…. To both of you,” Cassian's eyes shooting daggers at Azriel. Nesta had told them that she wanted them both, she admitted to knowing Azriel had lingered, listening to everything days prior. Cas had his argument already blasting in his mind but Nesta stopped him. “ I know this isn't the first time you two have pleasured a female together is it?” 

Cas didn't answer but instead, Azriel let out a small chuckle. “ You think we haven't been down this road before sweetheart? I know more about his cock than even he does!” Cassian began laughing, almost to cover up the hurt that his mate wanted someone else. He pushed that thought away, giving in to what she requested. “Are you sure you can handle both of us” Cas stated. A grin began making its way across her face when she felt the coolness of the shadows creep around her. They wanted to do this right, not in the library but in her bed. So every time she touched herself after this she would long for the pleasure they brought her tonight. They carried her into her bedroom and gently laid her down. A tingle soared across her back and her arm, where she knew that tattoos that sealed their bargain had begun to disappear. It was about to be completed

All at once lips were crashing into hers, hands to her breasts. She felt Cassian nibble at her breast, giving her a quick inhale that left Az smiling at her mouth. The look on their faces now primal. A Low growl escaped Az’s lips as his hand quickly came up and grasped her throat, bright blue siphons gleaming with pure power, relaxing into the grip she heard him say “How rough can you handle?” She could barely get out the words “ Break me” before they began working her. She knew Cas was large, but seeing the growth in Azriels pants made her wonder if she should be second-guessing herself now, but the more it grew the more she wanted all of him. Both of them. 

Nesta felt fingers and shadows lingering down at her core. Of course, they both wanted the same thing. Cas --agonizingly--slowly pushed two digits into her. Curling up to find her sweet spot. Her body shuddered at the pleasure it sent through her. Taking his hands from her core he brought them to Az’s mouth, offering him a taste first. Azriels eyes darkened and his wings widened as he pushed his own finders inside her then brought them up to Cassian's lips to taste. This alone seeing them both feed each other her wetness, her taste, the selflessness of it…the fucking thoughts that flooded her head. She needed them now. “ Not so fast darling” Cassian jabbed at Nesta. “You are going to watch us first.” With those words shadows gripped her wrists and ankles, pinning her to the bed. 

She was left whimpering and writhing in a pool of her own wetness. Watching those men run their fingers over each other's backs and wings, Cassian brought his hand to Azriels cheek. They had been through so much together, five hundred years and they loved each other more than anyone could possibly love. Looking so long into each other's eyes before they began their passionate kiss. Cassian reached for Azriels member, rubbing up and down. Nesta only now realized that both were completely undressed, completely hardened and wings began stretching out far as if an indicator of their pleasure. Blue and red lights gleamed and danced across the room. They only stopped when they had heard poor Nesta. Absolutely a mess and begging to be touched. They looked at each other, Az giving Cas a nod. Cassian's mouth was on her before she could react. His tongue swirling in all of her juices. Growling through his most primal instincts to breed her right here. Those vibrations sent tingles up Nesta's spine into her very soul. 

Azriels shadows still holding her down and open for Cas, letting him take in all of her. He knelt beside her head as Cassian continued to work her core, Nesta feeling that tightening beginning to build. She begged Azriel to fuck her mouth, she wanted to be filled in every way possible. Harshly grabbing her face he hissed at her to shut up so he can fill her. Before she could come up with a snotty remark, Azriels tip was at her lips. She licked a small stripe across his head, sending his eyes rolling. “Good girl” Azriel whimpered. Those small but powerful words sent over her edge as Cassian had now been pumping his fingers in her and circling her clit with his tongue. He begged her to cum on his face, letting him feel and taste all of her arousal. Nesta screamed as she came crashing down into her high. Azriels cock fully thrusting in and out of her mouth, his shadows still gripping her down. Azriel pulled out to put his hand around her throat and Cassian still pumping his thick fingers in her pulled away from her clit. Both men telling her how beautiful she was and how they were going to be here teasing her all night. “I have never seen someone be able to take all of me in their mouth, let alone continue to as your orgasm ripped through you,” Azriel stated, glancing over to Cassian who was lining himself up with her swollen entrance.

Azriel let go of Nesta's throat, and released the shadows, letting Cassian take control now as he could see the begging in his eyes. Cassian pulled Nesta's body to his at the edge of the bed, he lined himself up and slowly, inch by everloving inch allowed Nestas pretty little cunt to swallow him. No one had ever taken his cock so well, knowing the sheer size of it was pushing deep into his mate. Pure bliss in her eyes. He began ever so slightly moving. Nesta grinding on him, meeting him thrust for thrust. Azriel moved behind Cassian to his ever-so-sensitive wings. Ilyrians were known for their wings to be just as sensitive, and some could even reach their high just by caressing them. Azriel knew Cassian's favorite spot on his wings. Reaching a hand to his left-wing making slow small circles biting Cassian's neck. Hearing a cry from not only Cassian but Nesta. His thick member touched Cas’s backside. Begging him to be touched, but Nesta wanted them both. She begged through whimpers for them both to be inside of her as Azriels cock replaced Cassian's. Not only longer but stretching her further. She was cumming in seconds around him. Cassian's mouth smashed into hers to hide her sounds. Sounds those men knew only they could bring from Nesta and no other woman. 

Picking Nesta up off the bed Azriel continued lifting her up and down on himself allowing Cassian to come behind her. She had never done this before but she trusted them, They both had saved and protected her countless times before, knowing they wouldn't harm her and would stop if she asked. Feeling Cassian's tip plunge into her from behind was another wave of painful pleasure she was not ready for, removing one arm from around Azriels neck to place it on Cassian as he plunged himself into her. Azriel positioning Nesta for both of them now. Nesta craned her head back to Cassian's ear, leaning her head on his shoulder. She had never been filled like this before, both entrances begging for release as they thrust together. Azriels pleasure became closer and closer, he shot a glance to Cas, who put his hand around Nesta's throat. Az still moving her for the both of them Cassain moved his other hand to Azriels wings. Knowing the touch would send him over the edge. Small delicate circles brush the innermost part of Azriels wings. He began moaning and spilling himself inside of Nesta. This warmth had her seeing white as she just came down from her high, only to begin a new one. She could not truly see or hear but only felt the pleasure as his steaming juices poured into her. “That's it honey, good job, come on our fucking cocks” Azriel hissed into her ear, his siphons glowing along his body. Clamping down on Cassian sent him over the edge. All 3 cumming within seconds of each other. Azriel and Cassian not looking away from each other. Azriel did not stop moving Nesta until Cassian was fully empty. Slowing his movements so Cassian could kiss his mate. “Fuck, you are such a good girl,” he moaned bringing her back here to Prythrian from wherever her high had taken her. 

Eyes fluttering open Nesta let out a small breath. Azriel handed her to Cassian as he pulled himself out. They knew she had been the only woman ever to be able to handle them both like that. With their sheer size alone not many had wanted to even hint at the idea of them both inside her at the same time. Azriel placed a kiss on Nesta's head and wished her good night after he drew a hot bath to clean her up. He would give them their space for cleaning up while he fixed her bed. Barely conscious she allowed her mate to clean her, carrying her to the bath, holding her. Making sure he washed every part of her ever so gently. Bruises danced along her wrists, ankles, and throat. A smile formed on his lips knowing she loved every second of what they had done to her. 

Nesta sipped on some chamomile tea that Azriel had brought her as Cassian continued to wash over her entire body. She had asked to be broken and they truly had delivered. Sleep falling in her eyes she leaned on her mate. He let her, adjusting himself so he could hold her better in the warm water. “ I love you” is all she could mutter before drifting away. Cassian dried her off gently as though not to wake her. Carried her to her bed where Azriel had replaced the sheets and had warmed them. Tonight was the first night that Nesta did not wake screaming from fear or her nightmares. She knew she was forever safe with them.