#Momentum Equals Power AU

[millionsofmaxime]

“Sharing is caring y’know?” 

“We’re thieves?”

“Maybe you could ask your uncle to supervise?” Roy suggested.

“Yeah but he won’t let me do anything dangerous,” Wally exclaimed.

“You’re not supposed to be doing anything dangerous, that’s the point!” Roy reprimanded.

“But it’s fun,” Wally whined.

these are either the funniest or stupidest lines I've ever written and I deserve a reward either way

[devilheartsblog]

Black Circle Musa AU (design & concept art)

The AU is in the name: Musa joins the Black Circle and becomes a Dark Fairy. Unlike Bloom she isn’t under a spell and joined them for her own reasons.

There she is!

I wanted Musa in this AU to be a mix of the Black Circle and a Dark Fairy. She’s an equal in the AU so I wanted her to have the same vibe as them. I had a hard time putting in red so when looking at the dark fairy references they leaned into purples, pinks and blues, which ended up making Musa’s look much better.

I wanted the wings to be smaller and there’s actually a reason behind it. Since she has dark magic it grants her the power to fly, hence why witches and wizards can fly without wings. But she’s also a fairy so she needs the wings for momentum. I love the purple wings sark fairies have so I kept it that way. Made the wings look like smaller versions of her Enchantix wings shape-wise.

First Concept:

This was the first design I came up with. Now usually I like the first design but I was struggling with her bangs and the outfit was too simple both in terms of the wizards and the Winx character design since general (I know about the later seasons’ dresses and yes I think they’re hella basic)

The wings and back are the things that stayed consistent.

Hair changes + Weapon

This one is less of design concept and more like light adjustments. I ended up keeping her regular straight bangs instead of the side-swept ones. I really wanted her hair to look like her season 3 cut because I miss it so much. Plus it could be her going back to being more tomboyish and hard on the outside rather than the softer version we got in season 4.

I feel like since she’s part of the Black Circle she needs her own specialty so she can summon a microphone as either sing into it for sound waves or swing it around for some gnarly damage

I also changed her top to have a zipper thing and become shorter.

Colors and cape (+ tiny Gantlos)

Aw look tiny Gantlos!

Anyway I decided to combine the zipper and the triangle cutout (don’t ask me how the zipper works, maybe it’s now a line) and I like it quite a bit. Her back is still exposed for her wings.

This is the point where I started messing with the colors as well. It was pretty hard combining red and purple without her looking a bit odd. I mostly envisioned her with Blue and purple gloves but I wanted red to be her main color.

And the bottom right is my favorite drawing. I like the pose and she’s showing off one of her powers. I was scrolling through some bocaloid shorts and it inspired me to give her fishnets. I also drew her boots and the design came together (except the colors whoch I figured out later)

That’s it for now, I’ll talk about the lore later. Thanks for reading!

[phanzon]

Puppet Sisters AU (2/?)

Like before: OG AU by @rorydrawsandwrites, its time I get off my ass and continue the story. PART 1: https://www.tumblr.com/phanzon/752669118845665280/i-cant-believe-im-going-to-write-this-au-out?source=share

Gangle opened her eyes, she had passed out for only a moment yet to her it felt like an eternity in a coma. Her limbs felt stiff and heavy, her legs were like jelly and her headache wouldn't end. "Ughhhh... how long was I out?" As she lifted her arm as high as she could to rub her head, a tiny squeak could be heard as the plastic glove rubbed Gangles porcelain face. Furthermore, the more Gangle moved ever so slightly, the more she could feel a moderate weight of fake denim rub across her furry torso, and the tightness of her ribbons strung around her neck... Something felt very wrong indeed. "I feel so weird... wait, what?!" For some reason or another, Jax's body began to repeat every word that came to Gangle's mind. Normally, Gangle would have to manually command Jax to say something, now it was automatic and came out a little too naturally. "Jax stop it... I SAID SHUT UP!" Gangle (and by extention Jax's body) growled in frustration at all these new confusing feelings. Gangle tried to sit up, however the mere movement only exacerbated all of Gangle's woes. It was not so much the weight of the body being too much for Gangle's ribbons to bear, but rather the sensation of feeling as if the body was hers in addition to controlling her own ribbon body. It was all too much for the girl, she released Jax's body, letting it's head to slouch back to where it started as Gangle slithered away to puke. "Uhhhhg... what just happened?" Gangle looked back at Jax's body, its eyes empty of life, and subtle movements nonexistent, there was not even a single breath. Gangle looked at the uncanny sight with an uncomfortable wince, by now the bunny would have returned to his senses, yet Gangle remembered how it felt like nobody was home. She slowly shifted over to examine the body and see what was going on. Wrapping her ribbon briefly around its neck, all of the sensations from before came rushing back. A breath was forced out of both bodies as Gangle struggled to process what was going on.

After a few more seconds, Gangle managed to pry her hand away from the neck, her eye's wide with shock and amazement. "I... I have control over his whole body... all of his senses... he literally gave me EVERYTHING!" Gangle felt awe struck and afraid at the sheer power and control she now had over Jax's body: there was still so much Gangle did not understand about the consequences of taking a second body with equal control to their own. A part of her regretted the path she had just took... but as her curiosity grew, she looked into Jax's blank eyes and realized there was no turning back. Closing their eyes and resting on Jax's face, Gangle readied to connect with the body a third time. "Alright... here goes nothing!" As they connected to Jax's mind, they slowly learned how to adapt from using two bodies at once. First, they moved Ja's right arm, getting a feel of its weight and senses, all the while moving her left ribbon independently from Jax's body. "I see... interesting. Now lets try... Sp-Spea... Speaking. There we go." Having learned to speak on her own again, Gangle took a while longer to learn how to speak as Jax independently. "Ma-ma-ma... Hello, Hello- ah! there we go! *Moves Jax's tongue around the mouth* Mmm? *moves it around more* Eww... Jax's mouth tastes awful... ugh!" After about an hour of figuring the basics of working with two bodies, it was time to try and stand up. Lifting one arm onto the bed, Gangle lifted themselves and Jax up onto their feet before they lost their balance and fell on the bed. "Sigh... lets try that again." Rolling onto their back, they used the momentum off their legs to launch themselves on their feet, where they could finally stand up straight. "Well that took a lot longer than I wanted it to... although I Guess it could have been worse, like the time I was learning how to walk while Jax was here and resisting. Anyway, I better check whats up outside."

Opening the door and walking out into the hallway, Gangle took note of how the new way of controlling Jax had its perks and quirks. On one hand it was far more flexible and less taxing to control the body itself. On the other hand, it was much more mentally taxing on Gangle. Looking out from the balcony to the stage, it was clear the others had left for an adventure without them, though Gangle didn't mind at all. If anything it allowed for more opportunity to try out Jax's body beyond what Gangle could do before. "Alright Jax, lets see what you were holding back!" They began by hopping onto the balcony wall with ease and began to peer out across the wide open jungle gym that was the Circus. Gangle had never been the adventurous time before, spending their time outside the tent tending to the garden, weaving fabrics together to make decorations and clothing, collecting figurines and generally keeping to themselves. But after learning how to possess Jax's body- "*jumps off balcony* WOO HOO!" -They've stepped outside their comfort zone. After all if they get hurt, its Jax who feels it afterwards. And that devious little assumption stuck in Gangles head as she parkoured across the circus' geometry like never before. "Ha... Ha... THIS IS AMAZING!" Coming up to a wide gap about 50 feet from the ground, Gangle looked up at the pipes hanging above before looking down at her ribbon hand and grinning. "Hehehe~" Jumping, she raised her hand to shoot out her ribbon, grabbing a hold of the pipe and swinging across. "WEEEEEE!!!" Unfortunately for Gangle: she was no super hero. The ribbon came loose and she smacked right into the wall of the block she was hoping to swing to before plummeting down below and hitting the ground hard." The pain shot through her like a stream boiling hot water. "AHhhHHhhH!!! %#!$ MOTHER$!#^, GOD&#!#, AHHH ha ha...." Tears began to stream down both of her faces. Picking herself up, she limped all the way back to the stage and sat in front of the wooden wall. It was then that Gangle realized that not only was she in pain, but completely exhausted too. The adrenaline and athleticism in Jax's body had masked how low its endurance was.

To be continued

[scriberye]

Nightshade (3/?)

         ➥  Ghost x GN!Reader     |     1837     |     Ao3

⚠️ Violence, Anxiety, Comfort, Some cozy smoochin', Medieval AU The danger makes himself known, and Ghost tries to keep you all to himself. a/n: This was originally suppose to just be a Ghost/Reader fic, but then König happened. Then Soap happened. So, here's the deal. Do you want to stay loyal to Ghost, or should we embrace the power of a harem anime and go wild? one - two

Time works its magic. With each passing day, Ghost’s injuries continue to improve, and you forget about the foreboding crows. From your workbench, you watch as he dons his armor. A gentle melody of leather whispers against leather, and the soft clink of metallic buckles as he ties, tightens, and latches everything into place.

The more severe of his injuries is still healing, and one careless movement causes him to flinch. He brings a hand up on instinct, resting it over the tender spot. Progress is progress, you muse, turning your attention back to your work before he can catch you watching him.

Despite his restlessness, Ghost stays at the cottage.

He takes it upon himself to help you with your work. From grinding herbs when your arm grows tired, to tying up bundles and hanging them for drying. Before you realize it, Ghost is becoming a part of your life. He fills the space your mentor left behind with her passing, and soothed the pain that came with it.

Ghost empties the crushed herbs into a jar and seals it shut, just as you taught him.

“Oh, would you mind grabbing some firewood from outside? I think it’s going to snow tonight.” The skies have been gray and overcast since dawn. Experience tells you to prepare for an unforgiving and chilly night.

“Sure,” Ghost rolls his shoulders, making his way toward the door.

“Thank you!” You say with a smile, looking back over your shoulder in time to see him waving as he slips out the door.

Outside, the snow crunches under Ghost’s boots as he makes his way toward the modest woodshed, its thatched roof shielding the logs from the whims of the weather. He stops before he’s halfway there, a sense of being watched putting him on guard. He reaches for one of his daggers, scanning the tree line.

Behind one of the thicker trees, a figure lingers. Impossibly tall, with their face hidden beneath an all too familiar executioner hood. The intruder’s fingers constrict around the handle of an equally imposing axe, the blade sharp and glinting in the sunlight. Their eyes lock. The tension promises violence.

“Shit,” Ghost mutters. Guess you’ll have to wait a little longer for the firewood.

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

You find yourself absorbed in your work, unaware of the world around you until an unfamiliar sound draws your attention away — a faint, metallic clanging from outside. You frown, the sounds growing steadily louder as you approach the door. Heart pounding, you nudge the door open.

You gasp at the scene unfolding outside.

Ghost is locked in a fierce battle with an imposing stranger, a black hood obscuring his face. Despite his size, he wields a massive axe with deceptive ease. That hood. You remember the warning from days ago. The chilling realization sends a shiver down your spine. Your heart races and the icy grip of fear squeezes your throat tight.

It’s him — the one who slaughtered an entire village.

Him.

You cling to the door for support, fingers trembling as they dig into the cold wood. Terror and the ferocity of the battle paralyze you, rooting you in place.

“König! We don’t have to do this!” Ghost stumbles back, narrowly avoiding the wide swing of the axe as it slices through the air.

“Nein!” König’s eyes are wide and filled with unbridled rage. This isn’t just a fight between opposing sides — it’s personal. He moves with the momentum of his axe, swinging it back around and raising it high over his head. “There is no other way!”

Ghost raises his sword in defense, the metallic clash echoing through the air as König brings the axe down with brutal force. Ghost struggles under the weight bearing down on him. He grits his teeth and pushes back.

A sudden arrow pierces the crisp air, whizzing past König and Ghost before landing in the snow with a muted thud. The unexpected appearance catches everyone’s attention. Between the trees, a man with a mohawk knocks another arrow onto his bow, the bowstring creaking as he draws it back. His deep blue eyes narrowed and focused on König.

“The next one won’t miss, bastard!”

With a growl, König slams his boot against Ghost’s chest, the impact sending him sprawling backward into the snow with a pained grunt. For a brief, frightening moment, König’s eyes meet yours — he’s seen you. You exist to him now. He takes a step back and retreats, disappearing into the woods, leaving you with a conflicting mix of fear and relief.

“Ghost!” You find your voice, rushing to his side and helping him up from the snowy ground. A sharp pang of concern pierces your heart. You didn’t want to lose him. You frantically brush away the snow that clings to his armor, inspecting him for any new wounds, but all you find is cold armor. No blood. Nothing.

“I’m fine. Look at me.” Ghost’s voice is steady as he grips your chin, tilting your head back and forcing your gaze to meet his. Your breath catches. “I’m fine. He didn’t land a hit on me. Breathe, sweetheart.”

“You’re fine,” you echo, sucking in a deep breath, the frigid air stinging your throat and lungs.

“That’s right.” Ghost tenderly cups your jaw, the cold leather of his glove warming as his thumb caresses your cheek.

“Oi! Get a room!”

The voice startles you both, and you jump away from each other. Flustered, you press your hands over your cheeks, the chill of your bare fingers burning against your flushed cheeks. Ghost lets out a weary sigh, crossing his arms over his chest as if to shield himself and keep any more emotions from slipping out.

“Soap,” Ghost’s tone is unamused.

“Ghost! Where the hell ‘ave you been?!” Soap marches over, each stomp leaving behind an imprint in the snow. “I thought I’d be draggin’ your corpse out of some hole in the ground, but you’re here! In the middle of the damn woods!”

Soap turns to you, his tone and expression softening. “Not mad at you. Hello, lovely to meet ya by the way. I’m mad at this bastard.”

Ghost rolls his eyes. “You would’ve if it wasn’t for this one,” he gestures towards you, “Took me in, kept me alive.”

“No joke?” Soap looks you up and down, appraising you before extending a gloved hand. “Looks like we owe you one for keeping this stubborn idiot alive.”

“Oh, um, I’m happy to help.” You smile, feeling self-conscious as you reach out to take his hand. A rush of warmth spreads across your cheeks. Oh, but he is charming. There’s a playful twinkle in his blue eyes, and his confident smirk makes your heart flutter.

Ghost clears his throat, positioning himself between you and Soap, using his body as a barricade. He stares Soap down. “Right then, you found me. Now go home, Johnny.”

“Not without you.” Soap narrows his eyes, refusing to back down from Ghost’s attempts at intimidation. “It’s getting late, so we’d better be going, eh?”

“I don’t think anyone should travel tonight,” you interject, eyes darting back and forth between the two men. A sudden sharp gust of icy wind makes your teeth rattle. “It’s going to snow. Stay the night, and you can leave in the morning.”

Ghost immediately protests, “No.”

Soap, on the other hand, looks delighted.

“Oh, that’s so thoughtful! Let’s get inside, eh? I’m freezing my tits off out here.” He slaps the other man’s shoulder with more force than necessary, his cocky grin never leaving his face as he pushes past Ghost. Soap knocks the snow from his boots, leaving a small mound by the door, before confidently strolling into the cottage.

Ghost lets out a long, suffering sigh.

You give him an apologetic smile and follow Soap inside. You felt a twinge of selfish guilt. If they were to leave now, the coming snowfall would surely catch them. Yet, deep down, you needed them to stay. König is still out there, and at least with Ghost and Soap nearby, you’d feel a little safer.

The sun sets, and dinner is a simple affair. You eat together, all gathered on the rug in front of the hearth. The crackling flames bathe the cottage in a cozy glow. Soap doesn’t comment when you settle in close to Ghost’s side, a knowing smile on his lips. In between bites, Soap regaled you with tales of his escapades with Ghost — like the time Ghost opened the wrong door.

Your home, a little cottage in the woods — a sanctuary you shared with the only family you ever knew — was overflowing with warmth and laughter, making it feel alive again. Silently, you wish morning never comes. For time to stand still.

Soap is the first to fall to exhaustion after dinner, leaving you and Ghost alone.

Ghost playfully rolls his eyes, watching Soap sleep. “Look at him. Hogging the fire to himself, not a care in the world.”

“Guess he wore himself out telling stories.” You smile, wrapping your arms around yourself, hoping to hide the shiver from the chill of being far from the fire. Ghost notices in an instant.

“C’mere,” Ghost says, his voice low and rough, as he extends his arm and silently beckons you closer. And who are you to deny him? You scoot toward him, sighing as you make yourself comfortable nestled against his side. He drapes his arm around you, enveloping you in his warmth.

“Better?”

You hum in contentment, pressing your cheek against his shoulder. He’s radiating warmth, as if he’s a fire himself. Is it him, you wonder, or perhaps it’s from being so close to him that’s kindling a different fire in you. The cottage falls quiet; the silence is broken only by the occasional snap and pop of the firewood. Ghost’s fingers trace absent patterns on your arm.

You enjoy the comfortable, intimate silence together.

Ghost stirs, his hand drifting down from your arm to rest against the dip of your waist. You lift your head from his shoulder, your gaze meeting his, deeply intense and darkened with unspoken want. The sight of your tongue moving across your lips catches his attention, and his eyes dart toward your mouth.

You reach up, slowly lifting his mask, just as he does when he eats.

His breathing quickens. You can feel it in the rise and fall of his chest. Time seems to slow as Ghost leans in, his lips rough as they press against yours in a feather-light kiss. You can feel his hesitancy. This kind of intimacy makes him vulnerable, and he holds himself back from fulling giving in.

Your eyes flutter open as Ghost pulls back. His gaze meets yours, searching for even the faintest hint of hesitation or discomfort. Any reason for him not to do this. A soft, dreamy smile forms on your lips. You reach up, your fingers brushing against the nape of Ghost’s neck, and draw him back in for another kiss.

[ursafootprints]

all your WIP ideas are amazing, I can’t wait to read them all once you get around to write them. please do somewhere in the middle + lucky break too!

Thank you so much!! I also can't wait to read them once I get around to writing them lmao

somewhere in the middle: my omegaverse dystopia AU where alpha Tony and mid-teens omega Peter are married purely as a matter of mutual convenience and Peter is very confused about why Tony (who has, like, morals) won't sleep with him, as a backdrop to the plot of Peter still being Spider-man and Tony secretly becoming Iron Man to keep an eye on him. Getting to know each other on more equal ground where there's finally no weird alpha-omega power dynamic bullshit at play throws some ~complications~ into their relationship.

(Romance. The complication is romance.)

"Hey, big guy. Pick on someone your own size." Peter glanced toward the window, his concentration broken, and he only just had time to glimpse the red and gold-- robot?-- standing in front of the broken window before his senses screamed at him to dodge. The lizard guy's fist still connected hard enough to rock Peter back, but not enough to send him flying the way it might have otherwise-- shit shit shit he was going to bruise-- and Peter reacted on instinct, grabbing for the robber's arm and using the momentum from his swing to throw him over his shoulder to the floor. "Shit, are you-- wow," the distracting, unhelpful robot said, and Peter snapped, "The show costs five bucks or an assist, Sparky!" "I deserved that," the robot said, but it did fly forward to grapple with the robber as he started to heave himself out of Peter's grip.

Lucky Break: Spiderio sex pollen fic! Handwavey AU where Mysterio is just a part of Spidey's usual rogues gallery rather than being FFH related; Beck comes across a sex pollen'd Spidey and plays it up like he's helping instead of taking advantage.

Beck sucked in a breath and looked up to the ceiling as if in prayer-- like he believed in that shit, seriously, but he figured the kid would eat it up-- and said, "I can't say it's my favorite crime I'll have ever committed, but, needs must. What do you think, kid? How do you want to do this?" It wasn't a real question, and Beck knew it. The drug wouldn't let the kid say no-- he was trembling violently as it was, visibly hard through his suit and panting with desperation, but if Beck was going to play up this crook-with-a-heart-of-gold angle, he needed to pretend to ask. Just as Beck expected, the kid moaned and shifted his grip on Beck's arm, tucking Beck's palm against his face and nosing into it, skin feverishly hot. He said, once more, "Please."

Thank you for playing! 💖💖💖

[some-unoriginal-fandom-trash]

Where can one possibly read that fanfic of the blues meeting the cod characters. And tex being stronger than Ghost. Just asking

All 6,000+ words (what the FUCK) can be found on my google docs. But here, have the snippet where Tex beats Ghost’s ass. (She’s technically human in this AU but we’re figuring that out)

“Shame, I was kind of looking for a fight,” you say, and then turn back to Caboose, who had been watching the whole interaction with rapt interest. “You wanna go, big guy?”

“Uhm, no. I do not want to get thrown around a lot again.”

“I’ll go.” You turn, watching Ghost walk in from where he’s been benching. Out of the corner of your eye, you see Tucker and Wash exchange a glance. “Been meaning for a spar without your armor, seems like an unfair advantage.” He sounds almost mad, but you’ve never been the best at interpreting his emotions. That’s Soap’s job.

Doesn’t matter how he’s feeling though, because his words piss you off royally. “Oh really?” Tucker, Wash, and Caboose all take a step back. “Fine then, let’s see what you’ve got.”

You both step into the ring, and equally size each other up. Ghost is pretty big, you’ll give him that. But he’s not as big or as strong as Caboose, and he’s certainly not as big as the Meta was. Still though, maybe it’ll be more even, as Ghost does tend to have the advantage of not being either a) completely brain dead, or b) crazier than a bag of feral cats.

You breathe in once, and as you exhale, he charges you. A tackle from this close has low risk, high reward if done right. If he manages to throw off your center of gravity, it’ll leave you off to a rough start.

You immediately shift into your stance, before sidestepping, and punching inbetween his shoulder blades as hard as you can with your left fist. The impact makes a loud noise as knuckles meet flesh, and you can feel it echo both across the gym and inside your bones.

It’s been a while since you’ve been in a real brawl like this.

The punch has him faltering down onto one knee, and you can see the spot already start to bruise, but he gets back up and turns to face you, your positions having switched. You’re ready for him, and as soon as he’s on his feet enough, you come after him with a right hook that he just barely dodges by ducking. It’s so close it grazes his hair.

He aims a punch to your abdomen, which you block with your other hand. The next few seconds are a flurry of attempts and dodges, equally from both of you, and it surprises you when he lands a hit on your shoulder, knocking you back a bit.

You don’t let it falter you for too long, as when goes for his next hit, you take his momentum and guide his arm upwards to leave his chest wide open. Your other fist goes straight to his diaphram, before you turn and land a powerful kick directly in the center of his abs. You’re just wearing plain work boots, but you know they hurt, having been on the wrong end of Carolina’s kick just one too many times.

He stumbles backwards, and you decide right in that moment that you’re sick of it.

You’re sick of how you brought the 141 into your home, you brought them to meet your team, the most important people in your life, and they keep you at gun barrell length. After the blood, sweat, and violence you shed and did for them, after the trust you thought you built up, they still have the nerve to mistrust and doubt you. None of them look at you the way they used to after you took your helmet off and spoke with your real voice for the first time. Like they forgot that you and Beta were one in the same, not two people constricted to the same suit of armor. That it wasn't just Beta who would protect them with incredible acts of strength, that it was Tex underneath the black titanium.

It’s with that pent up fury and frustration driving you that you move towards Ghost in one fast, solid movement, grabbing his shirt and yanking him towards you. You can see the exact moment he also realizes what you’re about to do, and that he’s as powerless to stop it as you are powerful to put it in motion.

You punch him clean across the temple, and he stumbles, only kept upright by your grip on his shirt. His head lolls back, eyes closed, and his mouth hangs open under the small face mask as blood pours from the small open wound on the left side of his head.

You come back to yourself all at once, and you hear commotion around you. You carefully set him on the ground, and then quickly back up. You broke the skin on both his head and your knuckles.

You haven’t done that in a long time either.

[africabriefing]

African Politics News Updates: Navigating the Continent's Ever-Changing Political Landscape

The political landscape of Africa is a complex tapestry of diverse ideologies, leadership transitions, and socio-political movements. From democratic progress and regional collaborations to governance challenges and societal aspirations, this article aims to provide an overview of the latest African politics news updates. By exploring the continent's political developments, we gain insight into the ongoing efforts, successes, and struggles that shape Africa's political future.

Democratic Transitions and Governance:

Many African nations have made significant strides in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting transparent governance. Several countries have witnessed peaceful transitions of power through democratic elections, exemplifying the continent's commitment to democratic principles. Countries such as Ghana, Senegal, and Malawi have held successful elections, emphasizing the importance of inclusive political processes and the will of the people. However, challenges such as corruption, weak institutions, and electoral irregularities persist in some regions, necessitating continued efforts to uphold democratic values.

Regional Collaborations and Integration:

Regional collaborations and integration efforts are gaining momentum across Africa. The African Union (AU) continues to play a vital role in fostering unity, peace, and development on the continent. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a landmark agreement that aims to create the world's largest free trade area, fostering economic integration and boosting intra-African trade. Collaborative initiatives like the East African Community (EAC), Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) further promote regional cooperation in areas such as security, infrastructure development, and economic stability.

Socio-Political Movements and Activism:

Socio-political movements and civil society organizations are instrumental in driving change and advocating for the rights and aspirations of African citizens. Across the continent, grassroots movements are demanding accountability, social justice, and equal rights. Youth-led initiatives are particularly noteworthy, with young Africans at the forefront of advocating for political reform, climate action, and social inclusion. Movements like the #EndSARS protests in Nigeria and the Sudanese Revolution serve as powerful reminders of the agency and resilience of African citizens in shaping their political landscape.

4. Security and Conflict Resolution:

While progress has been made in resolving conflicts and maintaining peace, Africa continues to face security challenges in various regions. Armed conflicts, terrorism, and political instability remain significant issues in countries such as Libya, Somalia, Mali, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Regional and international efforts, including peacekeeping missions by the United Nations and regional organizations, are striving to restore stability and promote conflict resolution. The pursuit of lasting peace and security remains a priority for the continent, as it is essential for social development and economic prosperity.

The political landscape of Africa is a dynamic arena that encompasses both progress and challenges. Democratic transitions, regional collaborations, and socio-political movements continue to shape the continent's political future. While Africa celebrates democratic successes and economic integration, there is still work to be done in addressing governance issues, promoting inclusive politics, and resolving conflicts. By staying informed about the latest African politics news updates, we can appreciate the efforts, complexities, and aspirations that define Africa's political landscape, and support the continent's journey towards sustainable development and good governance.

[miraivelgear]

@mooncyclone Since you asked for more lore, LET'S GOOOO!

Yusei and Mirai are more like very close childhood friends. Mirai hesitates to call herself his sibling since she did up and leave him when he was only three and she six, even though it was only because she didn't want to risk hurting him with her newly found power. Mirai also has her last name Shimo in this AU... and shit do I REALLY need to do SOMETHING with the fact that put together her full name translates to 'to know the future' and this would be a hell of a perfect AU for that now I think about it but yeah I still haven't done a thing with that. Mirai and Yusei met so young because Mirai's parents, Glacia and Ryoku, also worked in the momentum lab at the time (and equally with Dr. Fudo wanted that shit shut down once they found it was causing natural disasters). They saved Mirai but obviously did not survive themselves, and Mirai found Yusei when they both ended up washed up on the same beach and she heard him crying. Also by god have I rotated through ships with this girl, but I think I've settled on Crow with Yusei indeed being a sibling relationship XD

So Yusei plushie landed me headfirst into a 5D's hyperfixation. And that means it's time to ramble about 5D's Mirai!

She has known Yusei almost since he was born (she was two years old at that time), and has a picture of her two year old self with newborn Yusei after having been shot out of the lab in a locket she wears around her neck. The locket doubles as a remote, we'll get to that later.

Mirai has a combination of psychic power and the ability to see and talk to duel spirits, but she CANNOT go to the spirit world. She does not have that kind of power. She left Yusei when he was around three, when she discovered her psychic powers. She needed to get away from civilization and figure her powers out. It took several years, but Mirai managed to control her powers fully. With the help of her monster Hail the Antarctic Angel, she built her own d-wheel from scrap parts. Hail only had to show her where everything went once, she took to building the bike straight away. The remote function of Mirai's locket activates the autopilot of her d-wheel, so that if she is separated from the d-wheel, one press of the button and the d-wheel will drive itself back to her.

After reuniting with Yusei, the two work on mechanics together and Yusei is happy to have the extra hand since Jack and Crow aren't full on mechanics like he is. After Bruno joins the team, he and Mirai are Yusei's go to backup mechanics.

Mirai's psychic powers do end up disappearing like Aki's. The very last thing she uses them for, on a prayer, is to summon Frost the Arctic Angel to save Bruno from the black hole. Yes he lives in my AU.

[earnestly-endlessly]

I love your fic recs! Do you have any with Protective!Erik?

Protective! Erik is one of my favourite tropes so I have a TON of fics to share with you. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Protective! Erik fic recs

Erik Lehnsherr's Guide to Saving the Universe By Meeting Your Soul-Mate and Falling in Love in Less than 72 Hours – madneto, Pangea

Summary: Army Pilot Erik Lehnsherr is just trying to enjoy his day off when a mostly naked person crashes through the roof of his car. Even more alarming, the strange falling naked person—who goes by Charles Xavier when he's not speaking an ancient dead language—brings tidings of the apparent potential end of the world, and begs Erik to help him put a stop to it.

Well. His mother has been nagging at him to go out and meet new people.

In Sound and Silence – endingthemes

Summary: Erik is assigned to care for the special patient in room 301.

How Not To Meet Your Future Boyfriend – ikeracity

Summary: Erik punches Charles in the face the first time they meet. There isn't anywhere their relationship can go from there but up.

Forgotten – FuryRed

Summary: Charles is having a really bad day. Not only has he woken up in the middle of the afternoon with no idea where he is or how he got there, but when he returns home he’s confronted by a stranger with intense eyes, who insists that he knows Charles rather more intimately than Charles remembers…

Thou Shalt Not Eat Stones – valancysnaith

Summary: Two months after Washington, Raven found Erik in a skeevy motel off the Florida interstate.

“They have Charles, Erik,” she said.

The bedframe shrieked. In the bathroom, the showerhead snapped in half and clattered into the tub.

Demoted – JayPendragon

Summary: Erik Lehnsherr is a detective-specialist with the NYPD Mutant Tactical Unit, ready to help out where his skills are needed. Or he would be, if he and his partner hadn’t been demoted. For the next four months, he is patrolling the Lenox Hill precinct with Azazel – if he doesn’t die of boredom first. One night they are called in to investigate a potential case of domestic violence, yet the tenant assures them he is both alone and unharmed. However, there is something about this Charles Xavier that compels Erik to follow up.

Warning: Sensitive material, domestic abuse and dubious consent

Watch Your Back – swoopswoop

Summary: Bodyguard AU where Erik is overly protective and things aren't as simple as they seem.

If We Met Differently – swoopswoop

Summary: Erik wasn't the only mutant 'taken in' by Shaw, Erik learns this the hard way when a new mutant is dropped into his cell. They manage to escape together, but things aren't all roses after that. Erik has a score to settle and needs to make sure Charles is safe.

The Color of Love (Character Swap Remix) – BadLuckBlueEyes

Summary: Nobody sees in color until they meet their soulmates. When your soulmate dies, your vision returns to black and white. What happens when your soulmate only dies for a few minutes?

Omega Online – miss_aphelion

Summary: Newly imprinted Charles is having trouble dealing with his overly protective alpha—so in desperation he seeks advice in an omega chat room. Emma Frost is more than happy to help, Raven isn't helping at all, and Erik can't stand to be out of touch with Charles for more than five minutes at a time.

Cannot be Contained in Words – wallhaditcoming (uvcatastrophe) 

Summary: Crime syndicate head Erik Lehnsherr travels to London on business, where he meets oxford student Charles Xavier. Their liaison spawns into a years long transatlantic affair, kept apart by Erik's work and Charles' studies,which Erik chronicles in photographs. When distance ceases to be an issue after four long years, the overlap between Charles' past and Erik's work create a whole new set of complications.

A Pertinent Reminder – ikeracity, Pangea

Summary: Sometimes it's easy to forget that getting involved in Erik's mob business isn't all fine dining and sex on yachts. There's nothing like taking a couple of bullets to remind Charles of the reality.

Part 3 of the Associates series

A Dangerous Game – ikeracity, pangea

Summary: When a familiar enemy of Erik's returns to the city for some old-fashioned revenge, Charles is sucked deeper into the world of the mob than ever before.

Part 6 of the Associates series

You don’t choose the thug life (except when you do) – Anonymous

Summary: Charles is kidnapped and discovers that Erik, the Alpha he has been dating for the past few months and is head-over-heels for, is not just a wealthy businessman but actually the head of a syndicate.

He is rather unhappy about this discovery and Erik gets an earful for lying to him. Then Charles is kidnapped again and really, he hopes mating Erik won't result in weekly kidnapping because he has a thesis to finish and papers to grade.

Marrying a Mob – Ook

Summary: Charles is a teacher at a very exclusive school. When armed men burst in on the trail of two children, of course he stands up to them and gets hurt. The children are Erik Lehnsherr's children (of course); a "prominent businessman" or, less politely, "mobster".

Erik is grateful to Charles for saving his children's lives at the cost of his kneecap. So very grateful.

Naturally he tries to reward Charles for his actions. Equally naturally, Charles will be having none of that.

Azazel finds the whole thing unspeakably hilarious. Naturally.

Rumor Has It – blueink3

Summary: "Did I hear the doorbell earlier?"

"Yeah, but I'd steer clear if I were you. It seemed a little tense. I don't know what's going on, but there's a kid out there who looks freakily like the prof."

Nearly six months after Cuba, Charles' life is turned upside down for the second time. Though he's slowly learning to adapt to the first, he's not sure he can handle the second. Luckily for him, there are a few people out there more than willing to help.

Forward Momentum – AsYouWish

Summary: Six months after Cuba, Charles and Erik find themselves thrown fifty years into the future, where they meet their older selves, the Avengers, and a world that's very different from their own. Faced with the pieces of their broken relationship, an unparalleled adversary, and dealing with Tony Stark on a daily basis, Charles and Erik do their best to adapt while trying to find a way back home -- and to each other.

Runs in the Family – Anonysquirrel (chibirisuchan)

Summary: Alex knew his own reputation. Hell, he'd started some of his own reputation, because it kept some of the smarter thugs off his back. Everyone knew Alex's reputation. There was no way Hank didn't know his reputation, but he'd brought Alex into a house with some really expensive things and a lot of innocent little kids and his too-friendly, too-harmless dad.

But clearly Hank hadn't told his family anything about Alex, just like he hadn't told Alex anything about his family. At least, not about the brain-breaking parts of his family.

"I didn't know where to start," Hank said, for the dozenth time.

Featuring mpreg!Charles in a Kiss The Cook apron, overprotective!Erik in wet black leather, and baked goods. Lots and lots of baked goods.

Round the Corner Waiting – swoopswoop

Summary: When things go so spectacularly wrong during a relationship, Charles - now a single dad - almost makes a big mistake, only to be stopped by a mysterious man who just might turn his life back around.

Hide Your Fires – swoopswoop

Summary: As the sole heir, Prince Charles, had no problem with the roles and responsibility that would come with ruling a kingdom. Though he was the only one who did not see a problem. After years of being shuttled back and forth between kingdoms, his Regent hoping he would find a match more suitable to being King, he is finally sent to Genosha. Though the path has never been less clear than the one to a foreign kingdom with no ties to his native land.

Shaw’s Captive – swoopswoop

Summary: Magneto killed Shaw, it had to be done for the sake of mutant-kind but what he wasn't expecting to find hidden deep with Shaw's complex was a man held captive, obviously tortured, that somehow made Magneto turn into Erik.

Erik now has a potential human in his citadel as he continues the war with the human's.

Mind’s Eye Blind – Sperare 

Summary: As far as Erik is concerned, if you want to scare a person into talking, you have to present him with something more compelling than what he stands to lose...

And there is nothing in the world more compelling than Charles.

Chipped ��� Rosawyn 

Summary: Magneto's fledgling Brotherhood find Charles Xavier in a mutations research lab as an apparently willing subject for an experimental suppression device.

Okay, I Feel Better Now – Harleydoll

Summary: The AU in which Erik is sent to a mental health facility after being convicted for Shaw's murder and pleads insanity, and Charles is his paranoid schizophrenic of a roommate. Powers, Hellfire conspiracies, protective!Erik, and of course the inevitable angst.

Five Nights in Nuremberg – FuryRed

Summary: When Charles escapes from the mutant prison he has been held in for the last two years he knows that he’s going to need help to avoid being recaptured.

What he doesn’t expect is that help will come in the form of a mysterious German man who rescues Charles and takes him to his home; a handsome stranger who, frustratingly, doesn’t speak a single word of English…

Five Bullet Points – Sperare

Summary: It was supposed to be Erik locked away in a prison one hundred stories below the ground.

Charles was never supposed to be there with him.

Notes: Unfinished but an excellent read. Highly recommend it.

Stolen – ishipitsobad

Summary: Erik is a miserable, grumpy, cantankerous bastard, and he has every fucking right to be. He drew the short end of the stick when he got the Underworld as his domain, and there isn't very much fun to be had in judging and governing dead souls who would rather be anywhere else but with Erik in the depths of Hell.

So when he meets Charles, brilliant and lovely Charles who is more popularly known amongst the mortals as Persephone, and feels the promise of something wonderful that could make his eternally doomed existence infinitely more bearable... you can bet all your drachmas Erik's not going to let Charles go any fucking time soon.

My Barbaric Darling – baehj2915

Summary: Erik is revivified caveman. Charles is the anthropologist(?) taking care of him. This is as ridiculous as it sounds. Romcom misunderstandings and prehistoric wooing ensues.

Swimming with Sharks – Not_You

Summary: Erik used to be a shark. Now he's not, and has to figure out how to be a good human father to his twins. Charles is willing to help.

Eucalyptus leaf of my soul - kageillusionz, ourgirlfriday

Summary: Zookeeper Raven at Taronga Zoo keeps having ideas on how to capitalize on interest in the zoo mascots, Koala Charles and Drop Bear Erik (the only drop bear in captivity!), who have captured the hearts and minds of the public. First it was to introduce prospective mates (It’ll generate attention, Hank. People are perverts. They’d love to see koala porn.). This idea was not effective the first through fifth attempts, as Erik and Charles seemed to show at best polite interest in the newcomer before resuming whatever marsupial debate they had going. However, the resulting lesbian koala orgies did indeed generate interest. Then Raven unveiled the Hug-A-Koala program, which was successful, as the public showed great interest in hugging Charles, and Charles seemed to enjoy being hugged.

Then Raven unveiled the Hug-A-Drop Bear program, and Hank, not for the first time, wished he had a flask handy.

Notes: Yes, they’re Koalas, yes they’re adorable, and yes, Erik is super protective even as a Drop Bear.

[waveridden]

all the prime numbers for fic writer ask!

thank you for testing my basic mathematical knowledge. let's go

1: fic you're most proud of

i have several for different reasons lol but i was thinking about this powerful throwback earlier so i'll drop it in here: forward momentum is a rock band au i wrote when i was like 17 based on cw's wildly popular program the 100. it's a little odd in places because. i was like 17. but it was the first long project that i finished and it is something i still feel a lot of fondness for and i am so proud of it because i did it! it was the first project i committed to in that way. happy 7th birthday to that fic

2: what's a fic that took you to an emotional/dark/hard place?

writing stuff during the pandemic is very much looking back and going "oh, that was about the pandemic!" and nothing did that so extremely as stand tall, which is a blaseball fic about the snackrifice. i reread it a while ago and i was like. oh huh! a story about people experiencing physical separation who have to connect with one another via storytelling and adjust to the distance and loneliness! wonder what could've inspired that!

putting everything else under a cut bc i just realized how long this is going to be

3: what's a fic you're emotionally attached to?

oh i'm attached to many things i've written lol but i am going to shout out syrinx which is a taz balance merle character study about religion and is one of those things that i have just. always liked! sometimes there are ups and downs and sometimes "liking" things i write means going "yeah that was good" but this is one that i have always fully enjoyed and thought was sweet and i am immeasurably fond of it

5: what's a fic of your own you won't read?

my ofmd fic because it freaks me out looking at how many comments and kudos it has lol. i know this sounds like a humble brag but like 20% of the kudos i have ever gotten is on that fic and it's intensely intimidating

7: how does receiving or not receiving feedback impact you?

wow what a complicated question lol uhhh. the person whose opinion i care about the most is mine, let's start there. i try to write things that i am proud of and happy with. that being said! i like getting comments and kudos! i think it's cool when strangers read things i write and enjoy them, and sometimes it's frustrating when i put in a lot of time on something and it just...... doesn't get a big response. and at the same time i am always grateful for anyone who takes the time. it's one of those things where there are a dozen contradictory and equally true statements that i could say. i wish i could say the numbers don't matter to me, but they do! if i didn't want people to read what i write, i wouldn't post it. (there's plenty of stuff that i don't post!)

11: has a fic you've written ever caused issues/controversy?

there's a story here that i'm not going to tell lol but real ones remember free play (derogatory). my second answer is i wrote a page for the blaseball wiki recently that somehow indirectly resulted in a couple lore jams and major rewrites and issues. i don't really follow how like nobody told me i was involved but i guess i was

13: do you take pride in your writing, or does it embarrass you? why?

oh i'm so proud of it! this is a skill i've worked on and like i'm not kidding myself about my odds of getting published but that's not the goal, the goal is writing things for myself and my friends that i like and i am GREAT at that.

17: what is the best interaction/feedback/engagement you've received on a fic?

long comments make me happy! actually the thing that makes me lose it is transformative works, i've received three podfics and a translation and a sequel and some art (and of COURSE jamie who sent this ask sent me a physical bound copy of my d20bb fic destination as well as leaving a comment that delighted me and that's like. one of the all time coolest things.) idk i just think it's neat when my art moves people to make more art

19: if you could write an ideal fic, what would you include?

oh MAN what a question. uhh i'm never good at listing favorite tropes/plot points or things like that but i WILL say something i really struggle with is like. subplots and plot motion and things that feel external to the characters. so my ideal fic would include a strong subplot. (i am DYING to try and write a mystery sometime, i just haven't had a good idea yet.)

[millionsofmaxime]

Augustine & Cynthia: *doing the science* Rowan: You guys woke up at 5:30 in the morning just to do more experiments? Augustine: *silence* Cyrus: *silence* Rowan, finally figuring it out: ...You two never went to sleep, did you? Augustine & Cynthia in shame: Yeah...

Diantha: You can track Lysandre? Augustine: Of course I can. If the NSA can do it, so can I.

Cynthia: Why don't I like this person? Riley: I don't know. Maybe it's because they keep stealing your thunder. Cynthia: Maybe it's because their name is "Augustine". Don't you find that utterly ridiculous? Riley: No. Cynthia: That's because your name is "Riley".

Cynthia, Entering Riley's room: Augustine did it again. Riley: Peace disturbance? Cynthia: What no- Riley: Arson..? Cynthia: NO, JESUS CHRIST, HOW MANY- Riley: uh....Attempted murder? Cynthia: NO, THEY ATE ALL THE FOOD IN THE FRIDGE, BUT WHAT THE FU-

Augustine: Cynthia has no survival skills, their need to win has replaced them. Riley: That can't be true! Augustine: Watch this. Augustine: Hey Cynthia, race you to the bottom of the stairs! Cynthia: *Throws themself out a window*

Riley: Ladies, gentlemen and Cynthia, I want to show you the greatest thing your eyes have ever beheld! Augustine: A llama? Riley: No. Augustine: A baby llama? Riley: No! Augustine: A baby llama with a little hat on? Riley: NO!

Diantha: Augustine won’t come out of their room! Lysandre: Just tell them I said something. Diantha: Like what? Lysandre: Anything factually incorrect. Diantha, shrugging: If you say so. Augustine, arriving moments later: Did you just say the sun is a PLANET?

Lysandre: I hate you sometimes. Augustine: Well according to this picture Riley drew of us holding hands that's not true. Lysandre: Augustine, you drew that. Augustine: It doesn't matter.

*Riley is comforting Augustine* Riley: Stop crying because it’s over. Start smiling because Lysandre is someone else’s problem now.

Lysandre: Thanks for not telling Augustine what happened. Diantha, dumbfounded: I wouldn’t even know where to begin trying to explain this.

Augustine: Who wants to make fifty bucks? Cynthia: How? Augustine: I need someone to take the fall. Cynthia: What did you do? Augustine: I can't tell you. Yes or no, no questions asked. Riley, from the other room: Oh my god. Augustine: ... Riley: OH MY GOD! Cynthia: Make it a hundred. Augustine: Deal.

Cynthia: It’s funny how well you and Lysandre get along. Didn’t they hate you at first? Augustine: Lysandre hates everybody at first. It’s their way of reaching out to people.

Augustine: The best way to gain someone's undying loyalty is by saving them from a perilous situation. Lysandre: So you're just gonna wait until Riley is in danger and save them? Augustine: Of course not, I'm going to create a situation that puts them in danger and then save them. Lysandre: ... Lysandre: You're insane.

Augustine: Two years ago, I married my best friend. Augustine: Riley is still mad about it, but me and Cynthia were drunk and thought it was funny.

Diantha: We can’t tell you because you’re not a member of the club. Augustine: What club? Lysandre: The hating Augustine club. Augustine: …The fuck? I should be the leader of that club!

Cyrus, singing to the tune of I Kissed a Girl: I killed a guy, and I liked it- Cynthia, whispering: Should we call the exorcist? Lysandre, also singing: The taste of his cherry chapstick. Augustine, appalled: Call the exorcist.

Cheryl: Ducks are better than rabbits. Cynthia: What? Rabbits are adorable. Have you ever been in a fight with a duck? Ducks are jerks. Cyrus: Duck is delicious! Rabbit is all gamey. Cynthia: We’re not talking about flavour, Cyrus! Cyrus: Flavour counts! Cynthia: Who carries around a duck’s foot for good luck? Anyone? Lysandre: You wrap yourself in a comforter stuffed with rabbit hair. I’ll wrap myself in a comforter stuffed with duck feathers! Who’s cozier? Cynthia: Okay, but- Lysandre: NO, NO, NO, NO. WHO’S COZIER? Cyrus: Then why don’t we take a rabbit, a duck, stick ‘em in a cardboard box and let them fight it out! Cynthia: BECAUSE IT’S ILLEGAL, CYRUS! Cyrus: ONLY IF WE BET ON IT, CYNTHIA! Cheryl: I- Jesus-

Cynthia: So, are they your friend or... Augustine: They’re like Cheryl, but if Cheryl was ordered to be around you. Cynthia: Oh, so Riley. Augustine: Precisely!

*Everyone is playing a board game together* Riley: I will put 'A' down to make 'A'. Cheryl: I will add onto your 'A' to make 'AT'. Cynthia: I will add onto your 'AT' to make 'RAT'. Augustine: I will add onto your 'RAT' to make 'BIOSTRATAGRAPHIC'. Cynthia: *flips the board*

Cheryl: I truly believe that water can solve all your problems. Cynthia: Weight loss? Drink water. Augustine: Clear skin? Drink water. Riley: Want to get rid of someone? Drown them.

Augustine: Why do you act like we’re three year olds? Riley, exasperated: WHY?!? Riley points at Cynthia: YOU TRIED TO HYJACK A CAR! Riley points at Cyrus: YOU NEARLY JUMPED 20 FEET OFF A CARPARK! Riley points at Augustine: AND YOU ATE MULTIPLE DRIED LEAVES AND ROCKS OFF THE GROUND! Riley: AND YOU ASK ME WHY????

Augustine: Oh god, they texted you ‘hi.’’ punctuation only means one thing, Rowan. They're mad at you. Rowan: No, it's Cynthia. They're just being grammatically correct! *meanwhile* Cynthia: And then I used a period so they'd know that I'm mad at them. Riley: A period doesn't say 'I'm mad', it says 'you're dead to me'. Cynthia: I stand by my choice.

[cowboy-anon]

It’s a long one, lads, but here’s the ✨ super special whump ✨ I promised! The reason? It’s the amazing @unicornscotty‘s birthday!! (Make sure to wish them a happy birthday! :D ) Happy birthday to one of the first friends I made here on Tumblr. <3 What am I doing to celebrate? Posting a Pirate Whump fanfic (OG story by @unicornscotty, hence it being the present)!!!

!!! Note: You don’t need to read the story to understand this fic, but once you’re finished with this, you ought to if you like pirate whump!

Super amazing story idea courtesy of @milk-carton-whump. Then I made it an AU because rivalry, am I right? Canonically, these two get along pretty well, but a prince and a pirate on the same ship? There’s bound to be some bad blood. Then, of course, a sprinkling of enemies to lovers because why the heck not! :) 

Truth be told, I don’t know if it’s whumpy enough. That being said, I’ve been especially bloodthirsty lately, so there probably is enough whump XD. Hope you guys like it!

CW: Accidental self-harm (biting tongue), alcohol mention, bodily fluids (drool and blood), cuts, death mention (in passing), derogatory language towards the classes (monarchs and pirates), hitting, implied murder (but what do you expect with pirates, y’know?), lots of salt and sarcasm, pirate whump, stitches mention, spartan kick, swearing, swords against throats, sword fighting (!!!)

Now, without further ado:

ENEMIES TO LOVERS SLOWBURN AU - ONLY YOU NEVER GET TO SEE THE END >:)))) 

Alternatively:

Prince v. Pirate

Augustus calls them “scum” one too many times today. Luckily, Alex knows just how to push his buttons back. 

They stare into the murky bucket of mop water by the mast, full and swirling with the grayish tendrils of dirty soap and muck from the ship’s wooden floorboards. Alex can feel Augustus’ presence by the bow of the ship. He takes up far more space than Alex realized when the two of them first boarded this boat. 

But that’s... perfect, they think slyly. Someone who casts such a long shadow surely has that much more to lose. 

“When we first met,” Alex calls suddenly, fighting the amusement in their voice, “you didn’t kill me. I doubt your father will be very pleased to hear that.” They laugh and give the mop another soapy swipe across the deck. Alex looks over their shoulder with a devilish grin. “A prince saving a pirate. A prince too weak to finish them off. I may be scum, but at least I’m not a coward.”

Alex’s grin only grows when they hear the stomp of Augustus’ approaching boots coming down the stairs behind them. “Careful, Gus,” they jive. “That day was a fluke. Mind you, if we do this again, your inexperience will be your downfall.” Alex spins on their heel and laughs at what they see: The prince wielding his sword, carrying himself in a learned but clearly off-centered defensive position. “Very well. I could give you some pointers if you’d like.”

“Pointers?” Augustus scoffs and moves in closer to Alex, sword low to the ground and too tight in his grip. He crosses his feet when he moves, too, Alex notes. All classic mistakes. 

“The kingdom’s best sword fighters have been training me since I could walk,” Augustus continues lowly. “ I spar as one of the best in the kingdom. Don’t overestimate your prowess, pirate.”

Alex laughs. “You think sparring is anything like combat?”

“Sparring is combat,” Augustus spits back. “And as far as I can tell, your sword isn’t even drawn. Does that not invalidate all of the claims you’ve made so far as to your knowledge on the matter?” He gestures at Alex with his sword. “One of the first rules, be prepared.”

“Oh, not at all, Gus.” Without warning, Alex takes the mop in hand and swings it at Augustus’ exposed shoulder with a wet crack. 

Augustus’ hold on his sword falters when his right hand instantly moves for his injured shoulder. 

“First rule, gain the power in the situation.” Alex unsheathes the sword at their hip and holds it out, at the ready, gripped comfortably between their hands. The correct way, they mentally boast.

 “You know,” Alex says, motioning with their sword, “if you’d held your blade a little higher and led with your chest, you would’ve been able to block that blow with ease. But what would I know?” Alex runs their thumb over the engraved hilt of their sword, etched with tallies. Ten to be exact. Ten men. Ten dead men. “I’m certainly not a seasoned fighter, not like the beloved prince.”

Alex’s eyes fall back on the prince, still nursing his shoulder with gritted teeth—at least, that’s what he wants them to believe. Alex catches the way his fingers curl around the handle of his sword with newfound determination, the flicker of mischief that crosses his downturned face. 

If only he knew who he was dealing with.

Augustus lunges, sharp and quick, favoring his right shoulder but still far faster than Alex expects. But they are expecting it. 

Alex drives their sword forward at an angle, and Augustus misses his mark by a good three inches. It was such a simple maneuver, such a simple counter. 

“Now you’ve done it,” Augustus growls. 

Alex rolls their eyes. “Hasn’t anyone told you good sword fighting comes with a clear mind?” 

Augustus doesn’t hesitate with the overhead arc. Alex brings their sword up in a quick parry and forces Augustus’ sword to the left. “Don’t lock your elbows,” Alex quips, coming in with a left cut that Augustus barely avoids. “And never use that move unless your opponent is incredibly vulnerable.”

“Shut up!” Augustus swings his sword hard at Alex’s right side. “I don’t need advice from a pirate!” 

Alex notes his breathlessness as they match his swing from the left. The swords collide, loud and dangerous. But Augustus breaks it up before it becomes a battle of strength. 

Augustus goes for the arc again. Alex slips to the right and his sword hits the wood with a hollow thunk. 

In the time it takes Augustus to get back in position, Alex has their sword at his throat, not quite touching but threatening nonetheless. “What did I say?” Alex purrs, moving in closer. “If your opponent isn’t vulnerable, you are, plain and simple.”

Augustus’s sword crashes into Alex’s, swiping it away from his neck. The motion shocks Alex and stopping the momentum pulls at their back uncomfortably. They barely manage to get their feet underneath them in time to block yet another attack from above with their sword. 

Augustus wipes the sweat from his brow when the two part, watching Alex scramble towards the bow of the ship to compose themself. The smirk on his face is undeniable. “Vulnerable enough for you?”  

“You’re vulnerable,” Alex snaps back, chest heaving, “and predictable.”  

Augustus snarls, taking it upon himself to make the first move once again. Alex sighs but takes their sword to the ready position. 

“I’m surprised you’re fighting so fairly,” Augustus muses, advancing on the pirate. 

Alex takes a step back and startles when their boot connects with one of the stairs at the end of the deck. They need to move, that much they know, but for now they focus on the princely pain in the ass in front of them. 

“Is that so?” Alex steps back onto the staircase, one step, then another, sword extended in front of them.  “What does fair mean to you monarchs?”

Augustus’ expression sours as he begins ascending the stairs after them. “All sword, all skill. True combat. Noble combat.” 

“‘Noble combat,’ hmm?” Alex reaches the top of the stairs and stops. “You mean as noble as oppression can be, don’t you?”

Augustus smiles, taking another step. “I mean as noble as a piliger who follows it can be.”

Alex nods, feigning understanding. “If I could make one note,” they start. 

Augustus glares at them. 

“Fighting fair gets you killed.” Alex pulls their sword to the right, and with Augustus’ sword so low, Alex has a clear view of his abdomen. “And playing dirty? Well…” Alex sets their feet. “Pretty par for the course.”

The kick Alex delivers to his stomach is solid. Augustus manages to keep a hold of his sword on the way down,  but he hits the ground hard, and the moan that leaves his lips is wretched. Well-deserved but still wretched.

Alex clambers down the stairs and back onto the deck, equally impressed, amused, and horrified to see Augustus getting up so quickly. Augustus keeps one hand on his sword and the other on his stomach, and for a brief moment Alex considers kicking him until he stays down. 

By the time Alex decides that’s exactly what they’re going to do, Augustus is on his feet with more fire in his gorgeous blue eyes than Alex’s seen since they started fighting. 

This isn’t going to end well. 

Augustus straightens and rolls his shoulder with a grimace. “I did say I spar as one of the best, pirate. Part of that is being able to get back up.”

Augustus comes in strong with a ruthless swing to Alex’s right side. Alex brings their sword up and out for a block, and although they don’t end up cut in half, their shoulders ache, then burn with a deep familiar pain. Still predictable, they note, wincing. Thank goodness for that. 

Alex isn’t so lucky the next time. Another swipe, fast and aggressive, flies towards their face. Alex sidesteps but trips over their own feet. They’re quick but not quick enough. 

They feel it, the sharp sting of sweat mingling with an open wound. Alex brings their fingers to their face and prods gently at where they think the cut is. When they bring them back to look at them, they’re covered in blood, superficial but maddening all the same. 

Alex grins, glaring through rich brown curls as they click their tongue. “You’re persistent. I like that. But it does seem like someone needs to work on their timing.”

Alex lunges forward, faking with no spared conviction that they’re going in for a jab and instead plant their foot on the toe of Augustus’ boot. With a spin that’s just as practical as it is for show, they slam their elbow into his jaw. “Like so!”

On their way back to the mast, arm alight with near-paralyzing pins and needles, they catch a glimpse of the trail of blood oozing from Augustus’s lip. He bit his own tongue it seems. Poetic almost. 

“Fighting dirty, are we?” Augustus brings his hand under his chin and catches the blood and drool in his palm. “You know, any other time, your kind would be hung for this. But I must admit I’m enjoying this.”

Augustus tosses his handful of fluids across the freshly-mopped deck, more blood than anything else, and wipes his hand on his pants before returning his bloody grip to the sword’s hilt. “Now then. Let’s continue, shall we, pirate?”

Alex bristles at the way Augustus spits it this time, pirate, like it’s poison. At this point, Alex thinks skewering him might not be a bad idea. 

But no, that won’t be satisfying, not for the likes of him. Alex wants to humiliate him. They want to win. And all winning requires is submission. That and a little salt in the wound. 

“You might want to reconsider, Gus,” Alex says. Their stance is defensive but comfortable, balancing on the balls of their feet just in case Augustus tries to make a move. “It is quite cowardly to submit to a pirate, but if the king knew what I planned on doing to you, I think he’d understand.”

Augustus scoffs. “Meaning?” 

“Meaning I sincerely hope you don’t. I’m sure a missing arm would be quite the message to bring back to your fair kingdom.”

Augustus lunges in for a jab, all rage and false-assured thoughtfulness just like Alex expects him to. All it takes is a slip to the side and an outstretched leg to send them stumbling past them, fighting to regain his balance. 

“What did I say?” Alex goads at Augustus’ back. “Vulnerable and so, so predictable. Switch up your moves and it won’t be so embarrassingly easy to send you reeling.”

Alex doesn’t even see the side swipe coming, but they most certainly feel the slice across their abdomen. “Fuck!” It’s heat, raw and burning, but it’s not pain, not yet, not with the blood roaring in their ears. They swallow their blooming panic in time to meet Augustus’ next blow, weaker than the rest have been, with equal ferocity. 

There’s the shriek of metal against metal, invigorating at any other time, and the swords catch on each other at the hilt—the battle of strength and dexterity Alex was waiting for. Will Augustus break it off again?

Alex meets his eyes through their interlocked swords, brown on blue. No, he won’t break it off, not this time. The wolfish grin hiding the twisted agony behind his eyes says it all. That, and the trembling grip Alex has on their own sword. 

“You look unwell, Alex.” Augustus pushes harder against Alex’s block and laughs windedly. “You may want to consider submission.”  

Alex pants and grits their teeth. “And let you miss out on a… a valuable lesson? That’d be awfully rude of me.” They push back.  “Besides, I could ask you the same thing. How’s that shoulder of yours?”

Alex breaks away and feels the first stab of agony rip through their middle, hard enough that when they swing in retort, their sword almost flies from their unfeeling hands. 

“Keep it together,” they whisper, reclaiming their hold on the sword. Then, to Augustus, “If you’d broken the hold purposely, you could’ve reestablished your power in the situation, you know.”

“I suppose you’re right,” Augustus says lowly. Alex notes the cryptic tone in his voice but not fast enough. Without another word, he charges Alex, sword held higher, chest out strong, back straight because of it. 

Alex anticipates the collision and holds their sword at the ready, stepping back towards the mast in preparation for the inevitable block. What they don’t expect is the way Augustus’ foot hooks around their own. 

Alex’s feet fly out from under them, and this time they’re the one who’s stumbling. In their search for ground, they go blind to everything around them until their back collides with the mast of the ship. 

When the space around them registers again, Augustus is right in front of them and his blade puts a threatening pressure against their neck. His breath is hot and wet against their face. Under their chin, they feel the faintest trickle of sweat or, more likely, blood running down their Adam’s apple. 

Checkmate. 

Augustus stares into Alex’s eyes, still out of breath but gradually recovering. “How about that?” he breathes.

Alex stares back and chuckles softly, then groans at another stab of pain in their stomach as the adrenaline starts to wear off. “Not bad, Prince. Legs further apart though. You’re screwing your balance.” Alex dips their hands between themself and Augustus, careful not to nick themself with the sword at their throat, and touches at the tear in their shirt, feeling around for damage. It’s nothing rum and a few dozen stitches won’t fix. 

Augustus follows the movement with his eyes, then raises them back to Alex’s face. “Anything else you want to teach me?”

Alex grins. In one swift movement, they drop their sword, tear the arm holding the sword to their neck away from them, and pull that same arm behind Augustus’ back, shoving him hard into the mast. “Yeah,” they say above his surprised grunt. “Never lose focus.”

Alex gives Augustus’ arm a final rough pull, their chest against his back before pulling away with a huff. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need a drink.”

Alex walks across the deck to the sailor’s quarters. They hope Augustus can’t see that their body is on fire.

[salparadiselost]

Incubus AU- Alternative Scene

This is an alternative version of the first scene in the last chapter of “Let the Devil In”. I had originally written it in Tim’s POV, until I decided I needed it to be in Damian’s POV. 

So yeah, here’s an alternative version in Tim’s POV. Not all the details match up because some things got changed in the final version, but I figured some people might enjoy it!

Story Link: https://archiveofourown.org/series/2151114

“I will not remain at the bottom of the pack,” the little demon hissed, and the sound rang dangerously in Tim’s ears. It had lost the annoyance, and now held a tone as sharp as a snake’s fang. “because I’m going to put you there.”

Damian struck and it was only Tim’s Robin training that saved him from getting a knife to the throat.

Unfortunately, if did mean that he got an angry demon ramming into his shoulder. The kid ploughed into him like a truck, knocking him from his feet and making him fall messily on the ground. The landing was awkward and sent a sharp pain up his arm that told him he might of just broke his wrist. He couldn’t deal with that though, not with a small ball of fury about to bring his knife to Tim’s throat again.

The Luciferean smiled in cruel glee, slashing the weapon forward. Tim jerked to the side, twisting to his feet and barely missed another attack.

But before he could really gain his balance, or figure out what the hell was going on, the little demon was on top of him again. Tim blocked another jab of the knife and swung his foot out to catch the demon. The Luciferean had to twist to avoid the leg, and it gave Tim an opening to smack the knife out of his hand and send it flying across the room.

“You’ve been trained,” Damian noted, jumping out of Tim’s arm reach to circle him from a safe distance. Tim held his hurt wrist to his chest, trying to ignore the slices of pain coming from the limb.

Tim accessed the little demon warily, turning so his back was never to Damian. “What the fuck are you doing?” he snarled, and he flinched when the sound was more human than demon.

“I’m challenging you and taking a better place in the hierarchy,” he said nonchalantly, even though his eyes were anything but careless. He watched him like a serpent preparing to strike.

“And you’ll do that by killing me?” Tim said incredulously, “That doesn’t make any sense.”

Damian scoffed and the sound was as cruel as his knife’s edge. “I do not intend to kill you, sex toy. I intend to make you submit. You are nothing but a weak excuse of a weak species of demon.”

Tim couldn’t completely hide his flinch, and Damian’s smile widened. “And you know that, too. You know that you’re just an inferior little plaything that Todd is keeping around for entertainment.”

“No, I’m not.” Tim snapped, trying to growl like Jason did, but his body betrayed him, and the sound came out cracked.

Damian snorted at the pathetic attempt. “I can’t believe Todd thinks I will bow to the likes of you.”

Tim opened his mouth to say something else, but Damian launched himself at Tim.

Tim tried to dodge, but Damian was prepared for it. He grabbed Tim’s already hurt wrist, and yanked, using Tim’s momentum to topple him back on to the floor. He had felt an internal pop, and when he hit the ground, agony sliced across his dislocated shoulder. Damian pressed his small weight against the injury and made it scream in pain.

Tim choked down a sob, and the little demon’s confidence seemed to crumble for a second. Suddenly, the Luciferean was a kid again. Just a scared kid who was desperately trying be a part of a pack and didn’t understand what he was doing.

“Damian,” Tim said, fighting to keep his voice even through the pain. The boy’s weight on his shoulder lightened and the younger demon stared at him with wide eyes. “You don’t need to do this.”

“But I do,” Damian insisted, and Tim could see frustrated tears in his eyes. “Todd hates me. I need to show him that I deserve to stay. I’m not weak.” “This isn’t the way to do that.”

Damian hesitated, before suddenly his gaze steeled and became knife sharp. “This is the only way.” He growled, pressing into Tim’s shoulder with renewed viciousness. He howled as pain screamed through his arm.

“Submit, sex slave,” Damian yelled above him, his tiny face twisted. “Just submit already.”

“No,” Tim spat. He tried to flip them, using his greater weight to pin the boy, but Damian sharpened his hand into claws and ground them into Tim’s shoulder. Five knife slices scorched his skin and Tim spasmed in pain.

Panic rose in his throat and made his breath stutter. The fear that his adrenaline had been keeping at bay, suddenly roared to the surface, threatening to overtake everything.

The kid didn’t seem like a kid anymore. 

He was a demon.

A demon with the intent to cause him pain and rejoice in it. A demon that wanted nothing more than to see him whimpering on the ground. A demon that only wanted to win and crush Tim under his foot. 

Be careful of the Luciferean. They only want power, and they don’t care who they hurt to get it. 

Jason was right and now Damian was going to make him pay in pain because of it.

The demon over him tasted like victory and instead of being sweet, it was sour enough to choke. 

Desperately, Tim scrabbled for the bonds in his chest, thinking that maybe he could get someone’s attention if he yanked them hard enough. 

“No,” Damian commanded, voice hard, “None of that.” 

Then, Tim’s bond with Damian felt like it was on fire. It burned. It scorched. It made Tim feel like he was being burned from the inside out. 

He screamed as his world was swallowed in agony and flame.

“Submit,” hissed the demon in his ear, “submit to me, incubus.”

Tim couldn’t even think past the pain to answer.

Where was his pack? Where was Jason and Dick and Bruce? Why weren’t they here?

He keened and it was a long, painful sound that came the back of his throat. Then, there was a growl, much too deep to Damian’s and a yelp. The weight that had been digging into his shoulder was suddenly lifted, and there was a crash across the room. “Get the fuck off of him,” Jason snarled, and the sound reverberated through Tim’s bones.

Tim struggled, his hands trying to find purchase on the polished wood below him, and he let out another whining keen because he wanted Jason to save him. 

His brother’s growl impossibly deepened, becoming heart-stoppingly dangerous. Tim had never heard a more comforting sound. He wanted Jason to come here and take him away, to curl him under his chin and make everything safe again. 

Please, Jason, come.

“I told you to stay away from him, Luciferean.”

The smaller demon was crumpled on the other side of the room (had Jason thrown him?), but then stood in a single fluid motion. He stuck his chin up in defiance, spine as straight as a soldier.

“Todd, I have defeated this lesser demon in combat, and I wish to advance my place in the pack hierarchy.”

There was a long pause and then suddenly, Jason was laughing.

The sound was scary and full of menace. It was so deep and cutting that only an adult demon could have made it. The confidence in Damian’s stance cracked a bit.

“I told you if you put one foot out of line that I would break your pack bond,” Jason purred, stepping forward. Damian took an equal step back, his mouth falling open. “And this is more than a fucking step. I should have known never to trust you. You don’t deserve to be pack.”

The little demon flinched, his face spasming between keeping his stone face and melting into disbelief. “But, I, it was to impress you.”

“You thought torturing my little brother would impress me!” Jason yelled, everything in him was furious. Damian tried to take another step back, but he hit the wall. The little demon cowered away, and Tim could feel the fear coming off of him.

“That’s how,” Damian tried to defend himself, “That’s how you earn your place.” “No, it isn’t!” the oldest demon rose to his full height. “But it does make me reconsider your place to begin with.”

Damain’s eyes widened in horror as Jason began to say the words that chilled Tim to his core. They weren’t even directed at him, but they still spoke to Tim’s deepest fears. 

And apparently, Damian’s too if the pure horror on his face was anything to go by.

“Damian, as the Heart of the pack…”

Tim felt the bond between him and Damian sink into heart-breaking resignation and the hollow loneliness that Tim knew like the back of his hand. The loneliness was so sharp that felt like Tim’s own and he realised he couldn’t let this happen to pack.

“Jason,” he said, his voice quiet, until he repeated louder. “Jason.”

His older brother paused in his words, and glanced at Tim. His brother’s anger was still there, but underneath was that ever-present undercurrent of sibling protectiveness. 

“Don’t do it,” Tim commanded, shakily getting to his feet. His side was on fire and he grit his teeth through the flare up of pain. “Don’t cut his bonds.”

Jason startled, eyes blinking in disbelief. He looked the obviously injured Tim up and down, clearing not understanding why he would say that. “Tim, he hurt you. He manipulated his bonds against you.”

“I’m fine,” Tim isn’t, even though his shoulder screamed in protest. “I’ve had worse hits on patrol.”

Jason didn’t look convinced but he backed away from looming over Damian. He edged over to Tim and caught his face in his hands. Jason searched his eyes, fury gone and replaced with worry. 

The earnest expression on the feared vigilante almost made Tim chuckle. Figures, that his older brother would go straight into mother-henning mode. Dick was rubbing off on him.

“Are you sure?” Jason whispered.

Tim hummed and gave a reassuring little chirrup out of pure instinct. Huh, he hadn’t even realised he could make that sound. 

The noise seemed to relax something frantic in Jason, though, and his older brother rubbed his forehead against Tim’s.

“Alright, let’s go find Dickiebird and Alfred, so we can get you fixed up.” Jason began to motion around Tim, practically pushing him out the door. Tim rolling his eyes at the manhandling, but allowed his brother to fuss over him.

Before Jason could shove him out of the room, though, Tim looked back at the smaller demon. 

Damian was curled against the wall, staring at them in shock and disbelief, like he couldn’t even comprehend what he was seeing. He was crouched, partially obscured with shadows, and his eyes gleamed. Tim had the sneaking suspicion that it was because of unshed tears.

Tim felt the bond between them, weak, but definitely there. The kid was miserable and the emotions around him were a noxious mix of fear, disbelief and confusion. It made something inside Tim whine and want to bundle the kid up, even though he had literally just put a knife to his throat. 

When Damian saw Tim looking at him, his emotions immediately shut down, sealed away completely from Tim.

That didn’t matter, though, Tim saw the emotions shining through the kid’s teary eyes. 

“You stay here,” Jason barked to Damian, making the kid flinch back. “I’m coming back later to deal with you.”

When Tim looked up, he saw that Jason’s eyes were all demonic ire. A chill ran down his spine and he felt a fear for Jason that he hadn’t felt since Hood had cornered him in the Titans Tower.

He felt sorry for the small demon. 

He just hoped Jason would find it in himself to give the kid some mercy.

---

Check out the full story at https://archiveofourown.org/series/2151114

Cheers!

[anonymouslyangsty]

What do you think Assassin!Taka would do if he figured out how much his grandfather was manipulating him? Also, what do you think of an alternative Assassin!Taka where his first kill was his grandfather?

Very good question and very good concept.

Minor derailment for a sec (i swear it's relevant), but let's talk about Takaaki and Toranosuke in this au.

(warning, it ended up not being 'a sec'. I bolded the part where I ACTUALLY start talking about your question)

I feel like Torano's downfall was a bit of a slippery slope. He needed to gain some momentum before he went to murder and child grooming, as ya do. And I think the major step towards extreme corruption came through Takaaki.

I feel like those two have a rather tense relationship early on in the au. Takaaki knows that some of his father's dealings are fishy. Perhaps not criminal at that point, but not exactly clean either.

But Takaaki is still human. He's got a wife and young son to care for. If his father's slimy actions got out, they'd ruin the Ishimaru name. Plus, he isn't hurting anyone, right? So Takaaki leaves it alone.

That kind of dismissal only lasts for so long however, especially when you're as honest as Takaaki. Eventually, he's not going to be able to turn a blind eye, even if acting puts himself and his family at risk.

Perhaps Torano does something that goes a bit too far, that actually hurts people and ruins lives. Takaaki wouldn't be able to stand for it and, even if he cares about his father, he isn't going to deny his duties as an officer because of it.

But I think that Takaaki would make the critical mistake of trusting the goodness in his father just a BIT too much. He thinks he can talk sense into Torano, get him to change his ways without ruining his whole career. All Takaaki does is give him ample warning.

Torano cares about his son. Takaaki is a decent man, hardworking and honest. But he'll be damned if he lets his soft heart get in his way and ruin his legacy. So when Takaaki threatens to release info on Torano's illegal activities, he knows he has to keep his son quiet.

Toranosuke is very careful with how he does it. He can't just kill the man. If Takaaki shared his suspicions with anyone, his sudden death would be damning.

So he does the next best thing. Torano gets Takaaki declared clinically insane and locked in an asylum. He weaves this detailed, damning story, bribing as many people as he needs to to create a false narrative. Takaaki attacked him in his office, spouting conseracy theories and accusing him of murder!

Toranosuke deeply cares for his son, so he obviously wouldn't send him away unless it was for his own good, right? And if Takaaki's wife suddenly finds herself overwhelmed with life under the camera's eye, well. What kind of grandfather would Toranosuke be if he didn't care for Taka while his mother was away visiting family? He's just looking out for his family after all.

So that's all to say that Takaaki is alive in this au, locked away from crimes he didn't commit. After so long of being told he's insane, he slowly begins to believe it. Maybe he was becoming paranoid, seeing crimes where there weren't any. Maybe he had overreacted. Did he attack his father? He didn't recall doing so, but there was video evidence, so it has to be true.

It takes years for Takaaki to be deemed sane. By that point, he's convinced himself that he really had made up all those accusations. Taka's already gone at this stage, off training for his grandfather's purposes. But Takaaki thinks he's just off at boarding school.

Now I'll get to the point of this 'little' tangent. I think Takaaki's the one who proves to Taka that he's being used. Takaaki's an officer, likely far higher in standing than in canon. So it's plausible that he'd be employed to investigate a string of strange deaths that's caught the eye of a few officials.

It would be quite interesting for Takaaki to realize that the 'string' of murders is actually far longer than they'd realized. It'd be even more interesting for him to realize that his son is the one behind the deaths.

Takaaki is a father first and an officer second. There's no way he'll allow his son to take the fall, especially not once it becomes clear that Torano placed him into the role. Takaaki would absolutely try to make his son see reason, which means making him see that he's being used.

Okay NOW I'll actually get to the point.

If Taka found out he was being used by his grandfather...Well it sure wouldn't be a pretty sight. We already know how Taka responds to his world being destroyed: denial, unresponsiveness, and manic behavior. That's how he responded upon learning that a guy he was friends with for 3 days was a killer.

Assassin!Taka doesn't see himself as a murderer. He sees himself as an executioner, dealing out capital justice to those who abuse their power. He kills those that are irredeemable, who harm others without any empathy.

But if that was all a life, if he was working for the corrupt rather than against...He'd be just as bad as the corruption he sought to destroy. He'd be a murderer.

Put that revelation onto the realization that the man who raised him since his parents left, the man he looked up to as the pinnacle of greatness, is himself corrupt. Has himself committed the same crimes Taka killed to stop. That Taka was nothing but a tool for that corruption.

Literally everything that Taka is in this au would be a lie. He's not killing for justice, his mindset isn't the correct path, his grandfather isn't fighting for justice.

I honestly think Taka would have an extreme, violent response to that revelation. He'd see both himself and his grandfather as irreparably tainted, absolutely dripping in the blood of the innocent. And Taka has known no means of removing such blots on human society but to personally wipe them out. So that's exactly what he go out to do.

Now I'm thinking about Taka and Takaaki hunting down Torano for some vigilante justice. All while Takaaki subtly tries to convince his son not to kill both Torano AND himself. It would be very hard for Takaaki to convince Taka that he was a victim of his grandfather, and not equally as guilty.

(this is also making me think of an au where Taka's hired by the FBI for his skills in a Black Widow situation)

Speaking of that, let's get to the "Taka's first kill is his grandfather" au.

The first and biggest question is: who the heck puts Taka up to it? It would not be easy. I'm thinking that, in the normal Assassin!Taka au, Torano spends YEARS grooming Taka into accepting killing. Nobody else would have that kind of extended access to Taka except his parents.

...

Except his parents. I'm literally having ideas as I type this. New idea! I'm going to make Taka's mom relevant (and evil)! Also I'm calling her Nori because I just need a name.

Perhaps Takaaki's marriage was arranged for political reasons more than love. He had to marry wealthy, and ended up marrying the daughter of a wealthy businessman.

And that's a very useful position, isn't it? Nori is in a perfect place to learn the intimate details of the Ishimaru family. She can learn what little squabbles the family has amongst one another, what weaknesses there are, anything she could need.

Her parents are well acquainted with several politicians, all of whom are more than willing to act in favor of her family's company. All of whom are itching to become Prime Minister.

So a plan is made to leave the position of PM vacant. Assassinate Takaaki, frame Torano, get someone who'll act in favor of the company in control. Maybe throw in some Yakuza connections for flavor.

Nori is nothing if not a good actor. So when a bullet comes through a window during a banquet, going straight through Takaaki's skull and spraying the table with blood, she acts just like you'd expect a loving wife to. The event falls into chaos instantly, guards swarming the area. And little Taka, who'd been so excited to wear his new suit to the event, has to be dragged away from his father.

Nori's job at this point is to act the part of the mournful wife, suddenly finding herself a single mother. She also is tasked with beginning the rumor mill, whispering of the animosity her poor late husband and his father had for one another. How she's afraid that Toranosuke is somehow involved and, if she isn't careful, will act against her and Taka.

Somehow Taka ends up hearing about it. And well, Taka isn't the type to hide his feelings as a teenager, and he certainly doesn't do it as a child. It's an unexpected complication to the plan. Taka isn't going to just let the rumor float about. He's ready to go straight to his grandfather and demand answers, which would ruin everything.

They could kill the child, it wouldn't be terribly hard. But perhaps Nori has some attachment to him, even if she knows he was only born as a prop for her role. The only other option is to make him part of the plan.

Why frame Toranosuke for murder when you can convince his grandchild that he's a horrible man? A man so powerful that even the law can't touch him? A man so powerful that only someone truly dedicated to justice can bring him down?

It isn't hard to convince Taka to poison his grandfather. The hardest part is training him to hide his anger long enough to get the job done.

So now Nori has made way for a business partner to become Prime Minister, and she's created a hitman for the company. Taka would be a much more loyal assassin than simple money could buy. He's got a vendetta against corruption and a tarnished faith in the justice system. And Nori is in the perfect position to direct his righteous anger towards those that 'deserve it'. And if her definition of who deserves death is different than Taka's? Well, he doesn't need to know that.

[icarus-the-eternal]

Loyalist AU Drogan

Drogan’s world was comprised of rage, pain, and hate. He roared and raged but even his genetically engineered strength couldn’t moved the dead weight of Vera mite. This how they kept him, armor locked and hanging from chains until it was time to fight. Even now he could hear the rumbling of gears, the shift in weight as the chains loosened and brought him crashing to the ground. It took a pair of heavy lifter servitors to move is immobile bulk, just as it did every time. They dragged him through the dark and dripping underground, halting atop a platform. The servitors deposited him and backed away, more ancient mechanisms grinding to life as the platform began to rise. Bright light and a wave of noise washed over him, rendering him blind and deaf for a few heartbeats. Then the armor lock disengaged and his power armor thrummed to life, enhancing his senses with it’s own sensors. He stood in a sandy arena, surrounded on all sides by stone seating filled with a roarinr, jeering crowd. Mutants, cultists, renegade troopers, all shouted their praise and abuse at the space marine now pacing the sands like a caged animal. Nine times he’d stood in this arena, nine times he’d fought everything from traitors to xenos beasts, nine times they had failed to kill him. Somewhere another gate opened and his opponent strode through. A giant equal to that of the Black Dragon space marine, he was clad in armor of dark crimson and steel with snarling demon head on one pauldron. “Word Bearer”, Drogan spat in disgust. The traitor astartes wasn’t alone either, flanked by a full squad armed with bolters. The leader ignited a crackling power maul and circled Drogan. “I am Tanut the Blessed. Your soul will make a fine offering to the dark gods.” Fury flared within and Drogan charged. “For the Emperor!”

Tanut was a veteran of the Great Crusade, had fought at the Siege of Terror, was a venerated champion of the Dark Gods, empowered by the blessings of the warp. But he had never fought anything like Drogan. The loyalist was huge even for an astartes but faster than he had any right to be. Something beyond even their transhuman physiology fueled him, empowering him. Tanut was forced on the defensive, using his maul to parry the blows that came for his eyes and throat. Drogan fought with wild abandon, not caring if he died if he could bring this last traitor with him. Bellowing like an animal he ducked under swing of the maul, crashing into the Word Bearer at full force. Momentum carried them both to the dusty earth and Drogan was atop him, hands seizing his opponents armor. With a mighty roar, muscles straining beyond exertion, he lifted his opponent above his head and brought him crashing back down upon his waiting knee. Tanut screamed as his spine snapped beneath the force of the blow, spasms of agony wracking his frame. Stumbling through the sand, Drogan found the discarded power mail. With a snarl he brought it down and ended the traitor’s life. Silence dominated the arena as Drogan collapsed to his knees in exhaustion, unable to stand as the other Word Bearers took aim. There would be no eleventh fight it seemed. Bolters barked in the heavy air.

Drogan was not dead. Bolters fired and one of the traitor astartes fell in a spray of gore. The Word Bearers regrouped and returned fire but the ambush was well executed. He could see warriors, fellow Astartes, firing as they shoved their way through the panicked masses. In other parts mortals had cast of cloaks to reveal loyalist uniforms and were opening fire with lasguns and autoguns, driving back the confused heretics. One warrior bearing the icon of the Blood Ravens rallied the ambush, shouting orders and directing fire, even as another in Blood Angels colors vaulted the lip into the arena and rushed forward blade drawn. Yet most striking was the mortal woman clad in glowing golden armor striding across the sands. One of the Word Bearers charged with a blasphemous prayer on his lips. The woman never broke her stride, waving her hand almost lazy. A wave of golden flames spread out and engulfed the warrior, leaving him screaming as the inferno burned his flesh and soul to ash. Drogan felt something inside him tug him to stand, refusing to be found wanting for this divine avatar. The woman halted an arms length away and smiled, almost as if they weren’t in the middle of raging battle. “Drogan of the Black Dragons, I am Fuuko, chosen hand of the God-Emperor.” In that moment her light encompassed him and Drogan could feel it warming him, changing him further, filling him with the divine power of Terra itself. He looked down into the eyes of the Living Saint and knew without a doubt why he had survived in this hell. “You will be my champion.”

@fuukonomiko

[zosonils]

about the sonic/mega man crossover, how would Sonic figure into it? would Sonic be like a player 2, maybe have his own separate side story, or what?

i was like 'hmm i haven't thought about it much so i guess this'll be a quick ask' and then the part of my brain that's thought about sonic level design every day for the past ten years awakened and i wrote so fucking much [and tragically it's not even illustrated this time] so this is gonna be under a cut again bhjfkngbkjg

there's a handful of ways you could go about this but i imagine it'd work like classic and modern sonic in generations where every stage has one act for sonic and one act for mega man that you can play in either order! alternatively the sonic rush approach where they both have their own story and you beat both to unlock the final boss could work. there's also the idea of doing it like sonic rush adventure or mega man and bass where you pick one character at the beginning of each stage and can go the entire game only playing as one of them, but this wouldn't really work for the same reason it didn't work in mega man and bass dialled up to 11 - sonic and mega man gameplay are so fundamentally different from each other that it's almost impossible to design a level that's equally fun and fair to play through for both of them. either sonic has to slog through a slow-paced level filled with enemies that can attack him from afar with no way for him to counter from a distance, or rock is constantly tripping over his own big ol robot boots as he stumbles through a level that's throwing shit at him from every possible direction faster than he can reasonably react

sonic's gameplay would probably function more or less identically to sonic colours, i'm thinking for consistency's sake it'd pull from the ds port rather than the wii version so that the entire game is a sidescrolling platformer. all the wii-exclusive wisps [cube, hover, spikes] work in two dimensions and two out of those three are exclusive to the 2d segments so there'd be no issues with squeezing those down to a purely sidescrolling experience, as opposed to the logistical nightmare of making up a way for every single colour power to function in 3d - sonic lost world on 3ds kinda did that for red burst if my memory is correct but it's just not as fun. also i think the thing modern sonic does sometimes where it switches between 2 and 3d mid-level is clunky but that's just me

the reason i talk about wisp logistics is that of course sonic's still gonna have the wisps. nearly all of them would function pretty identically to their ingame incarnations, but unlike in regular sonic colours where you can only use certain wisps in certain spots in certain levels, they'd act more like mega man's weapons where sonic can activate and deactivate them at will until an energy gauge runs out. [i say 'nearly all' because as i mentioned in the last post about this au i think blue cube sucks ass and that'd be even more apparent if you could use it whenever you want. keep some optional ring/cube puzzles for funsies, that's fine, but i'm envisioning a heavier emphasis on the ground pound aspect of it that the game sorta glosses over so that it feels less underwhelming]

just as rock unlocks a new weapon with every robot master defeated, sonic unlocks a new colour power. of course this means that even sonic's levels would have to be almost completely reworked so that you can beat any of them without a single colour power, since i wanna keep the near-total non-linearity from mega man, but honestly i think you could make just as fun a sonic colours experience treating wisps like this. side note, i think i heard a rumour or leak or whatever the kids call it now that sonic colours ultimate is leaning towards this approach, and i have no idea if it's true or not [after all the playable tails rumour [which i had a very vivid dream about while staying at my grandparents' house one summer when i was i think 9 or thereabouts, i wanted it to be real so bad] turned out to be not real :(] but if it is that'll fucking rule

also this should've gone earlier but i can't find a good place to insert it so i'm just saying that both sonic and mega man's gameplay styles will probably lean a bit closer to each other so it doesn't feel too jarring for fans of only one series. since i love both i could just rip straight from their respective titles and it wouldn't matter but unfortunately i care about game design. the core gameplay would be pretty identical for both of them, it'd just be little differences - mega man levels naturally flow faster and the punishment for charging in headfirst is a little more gentle, sonic levels have tighter platforming and encourage a slightly more thoughtful approach without sacrificing the momentum-based gameplay. sonic's stages are a bit trickier than usual [at least on par with the genesis games] and require deliberate skillful movement, mega man's stages are more forgiving and give you more room to breathe, striking a tough but fair balance between 'sometimes challenging but rarely distressingly so' sonic and 'for the love of god please help me' mega man. each character still plays distinctly like themselves, but with adjustments to make it easier for a fan of specifically one series to ease into the other's playstyle, and also so that the constant shifting between two different gameplay styles feels more natural and less jarring

really the biggest issue that this hypothetical crossover poses in terms of gameplay is bosses. of course the robot masters are gonna be the main bosses, but who's gonna fight them? rock could take on the robot masters while sonic fights his own guys, but sonic bosses aren't nearly as interesting as robot masters by nature of each series' core design [sonic is all about the levels themselves whereas mega man is pretty much defined by the showdown with each boss]. is the boss a separate, self-enclosed act 3 you can choose either character for? what's the point of a mega man level that doesn't end in a boss fight, though? is there a forced structure of act 1 as sonic and act 2 as mega man? do they BOTH fight the robot master at the end of their act? if so, how did he come back when he got beaten the first time, but not the second? i guess i'll go with they both fight the robot master and he just teleports away from whoever beats him first or something, but it feels like an incomplete solution and it bothers me lmao

obviously the boss issue only comes up with the robot master stages and the boss rush [would you even want to do a boss rush if you've already had to beat them twice] because the obligatory egg/wily stages at the end would be fine with more generic bosses - maybe the actual bosses from sonic colours repurposed for the final levels, at least on sonic's side of things. the true final boss would naturally have you switch between the two of them in a completely different gameplay style that you have to learn fast or die trying a la sonic adventure 2 or the rushes, and almost definitely is the nega-mother wisp from colours ds