#Twi may not be big enough here but it's okay it's fine

[ketchupkio]

Your Twilight being cute, wrt tiny doodles?

Sky and Twilight for you!!! Pubby get spoiled

Sky and Twilight belong to @ageless-soul-au, pls don't tag any other AUs!

[anadorablekiwi]

A Family Lake Trip

A comfort fic for my dear friend @telemna-hyelle <3 this is a little oneshot AU, where Twilight and Ilia are married with two kids. Wind is their oldest, and they’ve also got baby Aryll. This is pure fluff through and through, with a healthy dose of Twilight/Ilia and Dad!Twilight + kid!Wind. I hope you enjoy Tellie, and that the fic is fluffy to your liking and does your request justice 💖😊

“Are we there yet?”

“Wind, if you ask that one more time I swear-” Twilight groaned. The horse ride to lake hylia isn’t even that long of a ride, but the energetic youth was very impatient nonetheless.

“We’re almost there, sweetie. See? You can see the lake already,” Ilia responded. Sure enough, as they turned, following the road, Lake Hylia came into view.

“Yay! Look Aryll, it's Lake Hylia!”

The baby on Ilia’s lap giggled  and clapped her hands. Twilight smiled. As much as a handful they may be at times, kids are cute and he sure loves ‘em.

They pulled up to a tree near the lakeshore and stopped. Twilight fed Epona an apple, petting her and praising her as he unhitched the horse cart. Wind started to run straight towards the water.

“Oh no you don’t, get back here Wind. Help your mom unload.”

Wind groaned and walked back to the cart, before an idea struck him and he perked up. “I can play with Aryll for you, mom! That way you don’t have to hold her while you unload!” He grinned, already reaching for his baby sister. Aryll giggled, reaching out for her brother.

Twilight rolled his eyes and sighed. “Very helpful, Wind.”

“You’re Welcome!” Wind replied cheekily. 

Ilia laughed. “Stay on the grass, you two. I don’t want you in the water yet, okay?”

“Yes mom!” Wind took Aryll from his mother and walked a little ways closer to the lake, while staying on the grass as instructed. Finding a spot he deemed suitable, he set her down and sat down himself. 

Aryll giggled, reaching her hands out to Wind. “Buh-buh!” 

Wind grinned. “Hey Aryll, wanna try to walk to me?” he reached out his hands, allowing Aryll to grab the first couple fingers on each hand. Wind pulled her up and she took a few shaky steps towards him with his help, before falling forward. Wind caught her quickly, lifting her up in the air and grinning big. “Hey, you did it! That was great, Aryll!”

The baby giggled big, smiling at her brother.

Twilight and Ilia had finished unloading, having set out the blanket and picnic basket next to where the kids were playing, and placed a couple of Aryll’s toys on the blanket. Aryll noticed and crawled over, picking up a small stuffed wolf plush. She immediately stuffed the wolf’s head into her mouth. Wind, meanwhile, had busied himself by fishing around in the basket. A moment later, he pulled out a chocolate chip cookie, grinning in triumph as he stuffed the sweet into his mouth. 

Wind then stood, grabbing Twilight’s hand and attempting to pull the man towards the lake. He was entirely unsuccessful at moving the man, but the effort was there. “Come on dad, let's go!”

Twilight glanced at his wife, who smiled and nodded. “Go ahead honey. Aryll and I will be fine.” Twilight nodded and walked up to Ilia, giving her a quick kiss.

“Eww, gross!” Wind exclaimed, sporting a very dramatic grossed out face. Aryll giggled at her big brother’s dramatics, and Twi and Ilia shared a look and smiled. 

Twilight turned back to his oldest and grinned mischievously, causing Wind to reconsider his choices. Wind bolted to the lake, Twilight close on his tail. Just as Wind reached the water, Twilight caught up and picked him up, ignoring Wind’s protests amidst the laughter. Twilight walked deeper into the lake, and then with a final heave he tossed his son into the water. 

Wind came back up, immediately splashing Twilight with a sweep of his hand. Twilight sent a small wave of water back towards Wind, but the boy simply ducked under the surface of the water to avoid it. However, when Wind resurfaced again, he was immediately met with another splash of water. 

Ilia watched her daughter attempt to eat the wolf plush as she listened to the joyful sounds of Twilight and Wind playing in the water. Aryll decided the plush was no longer appetizing and threw it onto the blanket with a giggle. She looked up and spotted Twi and Wind, then turned back and crawled to Ilia. 

“Mama!” she pointed back towards the water. “Dada! Buh-buh!”

“Hi sweetie! Do you want to go see what daddy and big brother are doing?” Aryll babbled cheerfully and clapped her hands. 

~

“Hey, mom and Aryll are joining us! Yay!” 

Twilight glanced back, and sure enough his beautiful wife was walking towards the shore, baby on one hip. He turned back to Wind, grinning. “Hey Wind, have I ever taught you how to do this?” He put his hands in the water, then sent a concentrated squirt straight at Wind’s face. 

Wind didn’t even react to getting splashed, too distracted by this exciting new trick. “Whoa!! How did you do that??”

“Here, you position your hands like this-”

~

Ilia placed Aryll down in the shallows, the water only coming up to the baby’s belly button, and sat down beside her. The baby giggled and smacked the water with her hands, absolutely delighted. Suddenly, she felt a stream of water hit the side of her head. Ilia looked up to find Wind grinning, Twilight standing behind him trying (and failing) to look innocent. 

She grinned. “I see dad taught you the water trick. Well, do you know who taught your dad that?” she sent a stream of water right back at him, catching him by surprise. Aryll decided she wanted to splash Wind, too, and smacked the water in his direction with a giggle.

Wind grinned. “Oh, it’s on!”

~~~

After a short fun and baby-friendly water fight, Wind’s stomach growled loudly, and it was deemed lunch time. They dried off and enjoyed the food they prepared, although Wind was resistant to eating the carrot slices until the threat of no more cookies was brought out, after which he ate them enthusiastically. Aryll occasionally tried to throw her food at Wind, Ilia, or Twilight instead of putting it in her mouth, but ate without too much fuss. After lunch, Wind went out to play in the water some more, and Twilight stayed on the blanket with Aryll while Ilia went out with Wind this time. 

Before they knew it, it was time to leave. 

“Aww, do we have to?” Wind whined.

“Yes sweetie, we need to leave soon if we’re to get home before sunset. Besides, Aryll is getting pretty tired.” The baby in question was currently resting in her daddy’s arms, sleeping peacefully. “And you are too, by the looks of it,” She added as Wind let out a big yawn.

“I’m not-” he yawned again, interrupting himself. “I’m not tired!”

“Uh huh, sure you’re not. Okay then, mister not tired, why don’t you actually help your mom load up the cart then?” Twilight asked, eyes sparkling with amusement.

Wind stubbornly nodded, and dutifully helped pack up and load all of their things, yawning through it all. Twilight handed baby Aryll off to Ilia again, and Wind tugged on his dad’s sleeve. “What is it, bud?”

“Can I sit next to you? I wanna help you direct ��pona!” he rubbed his eyes, failing to stifle another yawn.

Twilight and Ilia laughed, the latter nodding. “Of course Wind, you can sit with your dad.”

Wind let out a tired yay, and they all piled into the cart. As soon as Twilight sat down next to Wind, the boy leaned over, resting his head against his dad’s side. Twilight smiled and wrapped an arm around him, his other hand holding the reins. Ilia sat down in the cart on the other side of Twilight, baby Aryll fast asleep in her arms. 

“Hyup!” Epona started the walk home, and moments later Wind was asleep as well, nestled into Twilight’s side and snoring softly. Twilight smiled softly. 

“He really wore himself out today.” 

“He sure did,” Ilia replied with a soft smile of her own. They both had a lot of fun today.”

“A successful trip indeed,” Twilight replied. Ilia yawned as the sun began to set, illuminating the sky with gentle pinks, oranges, and purples. Twilight turned and gave his wife a kiss on the cheek. She leaned up against Twilight’s other side, resting her head on his shoulder. 

Twilight wrapped his other arm around her shoulders and sighed contentedly. He gently kissed the top of Wind’s head, then turned and did the same for Ilia. She smiled warmly and brought little Aryll in kissing range, allowing Twilight to kiss the top of the baby’s head as well. 

He did so and chuckled softly. “I love you.”

Ilia kissed his cheek and rested her head on his shoulder again. “I love you, too.”

[queenof-literature]

Hey! Your writing is superb! May I request angsty Time being scared out of his wits by Wild and Twi being reckless in dangerous situations?

Hi thank you for the request and the kind words! I’m so sorry for the slow updates I hope you enjoy!

At this point in his life, Time expected the unexpected. Time travel? Fine. Magic masks with spirits trapped inside? Okay. Meeting his descendant? That sent him for a loop but he supposed it made sense when looking at the big picture. Coming to be the leader of eight boys who gave him at least one heart attack a day? Even he still got stumped when he thought too much about it.  

It was his protege and his protege’s protege that truly scared him more than anything. He cared for all his companions more than anything, and felt personally responsible for every single one of them. They were all loving in their own ways, and selfless and kind. 

But there was just something about Twilight and Wild. He knew that with Twilight it was because they were family. Not just by bond like with the others, but by blood as well. He supposed that with Wild, it was because his pup and taken him on as a protege. 

No matter how it ended up this way, these boys made his heart stop far more than was healthy. 

Wild wasn’t anywhere near stupid or incompetent, but his name fit him perfectly. He was untamed and although he cared deeply for his Hyrule and loved his Zelda, he was a free spirit. A free spirit who jumped off cliffs, dived into water for Korok seeds, rode deer and bears, and was overall a ‘feral gremlin who should not be allowed near fire’ as Legend put it. Wild always made sure to serve everyone dinner before himself, sleep with the rest of them even though Time knew he was used to sleeping in the huge trees of his Hyrule, and put up a huge fight about having a bed when others in the group didn’t at stables and inns. 

Twilight thought that Wild was bad in the pushing himself too hard department, Time always failed to see how Twilight was any different. The amount of trips Time had taken to trek into the woods and drag Wolfie back from scouting was astounding. Time would have to force him to go to bed when one of the others was injured, especially the younglings of their group. That’s just how Twilight and Wild were. And he loved them both for it. 

It was Malon who taught him after the Kokiri that love hurt sometimes, but it was worth it. It hurt, but the moments of happiness helped make life what it was. 

He had dreams sometimes. Simple dreams of the boys spending time on the ranch, sometimes with their loved ones from their worlds. after their quest. It left a bittersweet ache in his chest everytime. 

Time found himself praying for the first time in so long, that it would all come true. That he and his new family would not be separated forever. He wouldn’t let Hylia do that to these boys. Not after all they had been through alone and together. He would keep them alive, and he would keep them safe.

Although Twilight and Wild were certainly making that difficult. Pushing each other out of the way of danger, taking hits for the others, as far as Time was concerned neither of them could bitch about the other being too reckless. They had calmed down slightly after Time had talked to them, but they were still reckless in protecting the others.

They had been separated in the middle of the night. Again. At this point Time wasn’t sure if Hylia had any control on where they went, because separating them was a surefire way to get them all killed. Time was completely alone in a wasteland covered in snow. He didn’t know what Hyrule, he didn’t think it was anyone’s in the group. All he knew was he hadn’t seen a trace of the others yet. He hoped beyond anything they were in groups and safe. Whenever they were separated, they would usually at least end up in the same area or kingdom. This was convenient most days, but now Time was desperately worried the others were stuck in this weather and far worse off than he was. Time at least had his bag, the others might have been separated from theirs. It had happened in the past. They were sucked into a portal and separated without their bags. It turned out that all the bags had gone with Hyrule and Four. Their stuff was always around at least one person, sometimes those people just got mixed up. Epona somehow always ended up safe somewhere, something they all were extremely grateful for.  

Time continued to stumble along in the deep snow. His bag fortunately had some things to keep him warm. Not enough to stave off the cold completely, but he had some coats and a pair of pants to at least help him continue on. The best option with him being alone was to find some shelter, start a fire, and hope the Master Sword would lead Sky to everyone. He had seen what looked to be a cave etched in a small mountain. He would search for the boys until he physically couldn’t anymore, then take a break in the hopefully animal free cave. 

Time stopped. He heard something, he swore he did. He listened more carefully. There it was again! He couldn’t tell what it was yet, but he cautiously moved towards that direction whilst unsheathing his sword in case it was an animal of some sort. Once he got further, he noticed a speck in the distance. Soon enough, he noticed the speck was a creature of some sort. Growing closer still, Time’s heart leapt in hearing the sound again, louder now.

“-body!” The rough cry was drowned out by the cold winds. Time rushed as fast as he could towards the now confirmed Hylians in the distance. The first thing he noticed when growing closer was that the two figures were stumbling through the snow, leaning against each other, desperate for balance. The second thing he noticed was his protege’s fur wrapped around the taller figure. The third was the shorter figure’s long blonde hair. 

“Pup! Cub!” Time shouted, finally close enough to see their faces. Both faces were as pale as the snow below them, bodies quivering and shaking. Twilight was leaning heavily on Wild, unfocused eyes opening only once in a while, although he looked relieved to see Time. Looking down, Time’s heart stopped once again at his pup’s bent ankle he could see even through the man’s boot. Wild’s wide and frantic eyes landed on Time, brain finally realizing who was there.

“Time!” Wild cried out in relief. Looking at the cub, Time noticed he was missing his cloak, realizing it was peeking out from under Twilight’s pelt. Wild himself looked awful as well. Dull blue eyes stood out even more against his sickly pale skin and deep dark bags from exhaustion. When they went to bed last night, Wild was wearing a thin shirt with short sleeves to counteract the slightly hotter region they were in. Wild’s bare arms clutched desperately to keep his mentor standing. Wild’s legs shook under the weight and stress his and the pup’s bodies were under. Both boys were soaked to the bone. 

“What happened?” Time asked hurriedly, rushing forward to help support his protege. Upon putting one of Twilight’s arms over his shoulder, Time saw the cut on the back of Twilight’s head. It was bleeding substantially, but head wounds did that most of the time. It didn’t seem overly deep. Wild’s back, however, was a whole other story. The cub had deep slash marks across the whole of his back, the backside of his shirt was covered completely in blood around the holes. 

“We l-landed near a-a river.” Wild stuttered out, slurring his words together slightly. “A-a beast, I d-don’t know what it was.” Wild struggled to get his words out between the cold and the bloodloss. “It… it p-pushed me in. Twilight broke his a-ankle. Don’t know… what h-happened. P-pulled me out. Hit his head… I-I-” Wild trailed off more and more, eyes becoming unfocused by the blood loss by the second. Time needed to get them back to the cave. Right now. 

“Help me get him on my back.” Time demanded in a strong voice, hopefully covering his fear for his boys. Wild’s weak and shaking hands tried to help, but Time did most of the work getting his pup situated. Time wished more than anything in that moment he could carry both boys to the cave, but together they were both too heavy. Time wasn’t sure Twilight even knew what was happening with that head injury of his, not even mentioning how awful his ankle looked, so he was the one that had to be carried. Twilight was pure muscle. Time guided Wild’s hand to his shoulder that didn’t have Twilight’s head on it to provide at least a little support.. “There’s a cave not far from here. Just a little further, Cub.” Time encouraged as they kept walking. 

Time thanked every God there was that Twilight and Wild were still shivering. They weren’t in the far stages of hypothermia yet, but they certainly weren’t out of the woods. 

The trek back to the cave was much slower than Time appreciated with two injured Links that severely needed medical attention. Time went as fast as he could with a protege on his back and snow up to his knees. Glancing at Wild once again, once frantic eyes had become complacent as Wild shuffled along. It seemed Wild was keeping himself going on mere adrenaline before, desperate to get his mentor some help. Time was supporting as much of Wild’s weight as he could, but the boy was still trying to walk almost completely on his own. He tried to hide it, but Time could see the slow oozing of blood on Wild’s twitching back. 

Finally, Time could see the cave’s opening in the distance. Wild had slowed down to the point of looking half asleep, and Twilight’s hold had tightened over the journey. Wild stumbled again, hand slipping from Time’s shoulder as he fell into the snow. 

“Come on, Cub, only a little more to go.” Time leaned down as much as he could and pulled Wild to his feet. “Look, it’s right there.” Time’s hand guided Wild’s chin to the opening of the cave. Normally the boy would rush towards their new shelter and start preparing a fire, excited to cook their meal. Now though, Wild’s dim eyes just lit up in recognition for a moment, before shifting over to check on Twilight once more, just as he had been the entire trip over here. 

Finally, after their long trek, they made it to the mouth of the cave. It was relatively shallow for a natural cave in a mountain. Time could see the back of the cave clearly from where he was standing. There were thankfully no creatures within that would harm them. Time gently crouched down and deposited the pup against the wall. Twilight groaned softly and Time felt a pang in his heart. 

“P-p-otions?” Wild murmured, sitting next to Twilight’s ankle. 

“No, Cub. I’m sorry. We really have to pack at least one in all our bags, yeah?” Time joked wryly. 

“B-bandage?” Wild asked, gesturing to Twilight’s ankle. Time rolled his eye. 

“That we do have, but you’re laying down.” Time ordered sternly. Wild and Twilight would ignore their wounds for days if it meant putting the group first. Wild huffed, but did as he was told with no argument. Now that had Time worried. Wild bit back a whimper as his back stretched, before finally settling on his stomach, still aggressively shivering.

“Why did you give Twilight your cloak?” Time asked, taking an extra coat from his bag to drape over the boy. 

“H-he… wasn’t responding. His head. I could r-rub m’ hands together n’ stuff. He couldn’t.” Time sighed, hating how right the cub was. He stayed quiet. Not wanting to lecture Wild for protecting his brother, but not wanting to exactly say it was okay to give up his cloak either. Time reached to lift the coat and take care of Wild’s back. The sooner he was able to cocoon the boys in anything warm they had, the sooner they would hopefully thaw out. 

“Him first.” Wild slurred, not even having the energy to open his eyes.

“Wil-” Time began to lecture.

“No. H-his ankle. Bone needs to heal right. And head wound. M’ fine.” No matter how nervous Wild’s injury and lack of coherent words scared him, Time knew he was right about Twi’s injuries. 

“Don’t fall asleep yet. We need to get you warm first.” Wild hummed in confirmation of Time’s order, which was probably the best he was going to get. Time gently laid the coat back on Wild, trying to ignore the hiss as the fabric brushed against the wound on his back, before turning back to his pale protege. 

Twilight’s bones thankfully hadn’t shifted enough to require his ankle to be set, so Time just steadied it with a tight bandage. Twilight whimpered and winced at the manhandling of his injured ankle. 

“Sorry, Pup. Almost done.” Time reassured the younger. Time wanted more than anything to take Twi’s pain away in that instant. Getting a monster club to the chest was less painful than seeing one of these boys hurt from their quest. Satisfied with his work on Twi’s ankle, he moved on to his head. The wound was just as minor as he thought, just requiring a bandage and good cleaning for now. It was enough to do him in if he was alone out here, but now he would just need sleep and potions. Thank Hylia Wild was with him… Wild! He needed to stay awake!

Time hastily finished checking his pup’s injuries, deeming him out of the woods for now. Time whipped around to face Wild, still laying with his back facing the cave ceiling. His eyes were still closed, and his breathing was still uneven as shivers wracked his body. 

“Wild? Wild you’re still awake yeah?” Time asked in a steady voice, not even being met with a noise from the boy. “Wild? Wild!” Time snapped louder. The body beneath him jumped slightly, a noise of indignation rising up. It was then Time noticed Wild’s hand tucked underneath him. 

“Wild, let me see your hand.” Time demanded. Wild either didn't hear him or didn’t listen. “Wild, Cub, I need to see your hands.” Time said far gentler, reaching under Wild’s body to grab one of his hands. Instantly, Time felt his own hand grow colder, even under his gloves. Wild groaned at the loss of support under him that caused his back to twitch. 

Looking at Wild’s hands, Time was struck with the realization that Wild wasn’t wearing any gloves. How could he have not noticed? Internally Time was yelling at himself for being so foolish. Glancing over at Twilight, Time barely resisted the urge to bang his head on the cave wall. Idiots! Both of them! He recognized the dyed blue edge of Wild’s warmest gloves. Why were they even out without Wild’s slate? How? Time resisted the urge to groan in frustration. He would have to ask Wild later. 

“Why did you give Twilight your gloves?” Time almost yelled in frustration. 

“Coun’n stop fross-frosbite like m’. Needed gloves.” Time rolled his eye.

“Awful, the both of you. You’re the same person I swear to Hylia!” Time staed gruffly. “I need to move you to take care of your back, then we’re taking care of your hands. I have an extra pair of gloves in my bag.” Time explained, pulling Wild’s upper half into his lap as gently as he could. Time winced at the groan Wild let out against his will.

“Cub?” Twilight murmured, bleary eyes opening a sliver. 

“He’s fine, pup. I’m taking care of him now.” Time reassured him, reaching out and placing a hand on his protege’s forehead, the way he did when Twilight was hurt or feeling under the weather. It always helped to relax him. 

“Needs me?” Twilight struggled and fought to stay awake.

“No, Twi. Wild is fine. Just needs some bandages and warmth. Everythings okay.” Twilight let out a hum and finally succumbed into sleep once more. If Time said it was okay, it was okay. 

Time began to bandage Wild’s wound, managing to clean it with the few supplies he had, at least until the others found them. Wild tried to hold in his shivers and hisses of pain as Time cleaned and wrapped his wound. Finally, the wound was dressed.

“Okay Wild. We need to get you warm again.” Time stated softly before lifting Wild into a sitting position. Wild let out a low grunt of pain shaking hands twitching in the direction of his back. “Sorry bud. Almost there, then we can get you warm and you can rest.” Time picked up the spare coat and wrapped Wild carefully and tightly within it. Wild finally seemed able to relax, snuggling closer to the warm fabric. Time felt his lips twitch as he carefully extracted Wild’s hands from within the coat, closing any gaps in the fabric this motion caused. 

Time rubbed Wild’s frozen hands within his own, creating friction and hopefully enough heat to prevent frostbite before he gave Wild his extra pair of gloves. ild winced slightly in pain before relaxing further into Time’s side. There was nothing Time could use to make a fire, so this would have to do.

“Wild. I need you to tell me the truth. Are your feet or toes or anything else cold?” Time questioned.

“No. Good boots.” Time huffed out a small sigh of relief. He knew Twilight had good boots for the snow, but with all of Wild’s items and what he wears and doesn’t wear around camp, it was hard to keep track.

“And your legs?” Time eyed the thin pants Wild wore, already knowing the answer.

“Fine…” Wild was an awful liar when he was out of it.

“Wild, I need both you boys warm while we wait for the others or there will be trouble later.” Time chided, causing Wild to huff.

“A little cold…” Wild murmured. Time huffed a small laugh before using one hand to reach into his bag and pull his last spare blanket. Time managed to wrangle it under the legs of Twilight and tuck it under the legs of Wild, sticking him in the middle. As much as he wished one of the boys were in the middle to receive the most warmth, he needed to have easy access to both of them to make sure they were warming properly. Falling asleep with a body that was too cold might lead to never waking up…

Time felt Wild’s hands again, deeming them warm enough to put into the gloves. He double checked that the boys were warm enough before wrapping an arm around both of them. Wild and Twilight curled further into him, breathing peacefully. Time made sure to stay awake, continuing to check the boys for shivering, frostbite, and any other signs of hypothermia. At some point the boys had locked hands over Time, as if assuring themselves the other was okay. These boys constantly gave him heart attacks by being reckless and putting others before themselves, but in this moment, Time knew they would be okay. 

Plot twist: Time is literally just as bad as Twilight and Wild and this entire fic is him being a hypocrite.  

[forsakentoast]

Wildflower

chapter 7

Shout out to @ourevergreen for not wanting to murder me with my 1am questions. Thanks babe

Twilight was in a good slumber when Wild began to stir. Was it stirring? Wild was sure moving a lot. Sleepily, Twilight felt around for the child and felt his hand sit atop a small chest. Twilight patted it a few times to make sure it was a body and not some pillow. He was about to draw the child in when Wild let out a gasped shock which made Twilight snap wide awake. Peering down at the small boy, Twilight realized the grimaced look Wild sported.

Soon, the sleeping child began to convulse and choke on nothing but air. “Wild?”

Shaking the boy slightly, it did nothing more than to make Wild take in sharp gasps of air.

“Wild! Breathe!” Twilight became frantic. Wild was choking and he wasn’t waking up. “Wild!” He tried once more.

That finally got the child to snap his eyes open as he took in a big gulp of air. Wild could do nothing other than just sob and rub at his eyes. Twilight immediately took the small boy within his arms and hugged him close. The door was slammed open as the others all peered within. Twilight just looked up at them, slightly nodding his head to acknowledge their presence as he rubbed soothing circles on Wild’s back.

Wild just held on to Twilight as hiccuping sobs slipped from his mouth. His mind was reeling from the dream. His conscious was reassuring him that all is well and that he is okay. It was all just a dream. Logic began to supply that some parts were memories, but the rest was a dream. He didn’t believe himself. Dream, memory? It was a blur. He doesn’t even remember what the first part consisted of. Just blurred faces come to mind. All except for one. The soldier in his dream was what he vividly remembers. The cold hand, the venomous voice, the wrath on his face, and the way he spoke for the last time. It all sent another wave of sobs to wrack on the poor boy.

The arms around him were comforting him enough to make him realize that this was familiar, that everything around him was real. The comforting arms around him were warm and loving, not cold. The murmurs he heard were not malicious, rather, reassuring. His sobbing was reduced to hiccuping sobs and Wild heard the others.

“Wild, you are okay.” Twilight murmured in his ear. 

“Is he okay?” Sky tentatively asked.

Wild just held on to Twilight even more. Pride aside, he didn’t want the others to see him in this state.

Twilight continued to make soothing circles on his back as his head was tucked under Twilight’s chin.

The others soon began to pour into the room, unsure on what to do. 

Malon gently placed a hand on the small child’s back and softly spoke, “Wild, honey, did you have a nightmare?” A whimper with a small nod was all she got in response. “Let me take him, Twi. Come on, dear. Let’s go get you cleaned up and then we can go feed the animals. Would you like to do that?” Wild just rubbed his face against Twilight’s shoulder and slightly nodded after a few seconds of silence.

Peeking from the crook of Twilight’s neck, he saw eight concerned faces. He just rubbed his eyes as hiccupped sniffles shook his shoulders. He saw Malon’s gentle smile as she held out her hand for him to grasp, in which he took. Small fingers wrapped around her hand, or at least what they could, and teary baby blues looked at her with so much trust. 

As she guided Wild out the room, the others soon came closer to Twilight. Concern all etched on their features as their eyes gave away their intentions. Twilight just looked at his arms. He didn’t want to let Wild go. He wanted to hold onto him a little while more, comfort him. Maybe it was for the best that Malon took him. It should get his mind off of whatever plagued him. Sighing, he finally met the gazes of the others.

“You all look at me as if I know exactly what happened.” 

“We know you don’t, Twi. But to be awoken with such great alarm is not an ideal morning,” said Four.

“I don’t know. He was fine when we went to sleep, I swear! I was just feeling around him this morning, just to make sure he was okay and covered up. But I just started hearing him moving and then choking.” Twilight became a bit distraught.

“Choking?” questioned Sky. “Was it because of his own spit?”

Twilight shook his head. He closed his eyes and remembered how Wild began to convulse and gasp for air as if it were denied. “At first, it was just a grimace that he was sporting. Then after he just started to convulse and gasp for air when I was about to bring him close.”

Warriors laid a hand on his shoulder. “It could have been a nightmare. Maybe from the last event.”

“I think we all should tread lightly with him,” suggested Hyrule. “I am sure I speak for all of us, but I cannot bear to see him like this.”

“Which is why I do not want to see him fight against monsters and the like,” added Wind. “He could have an episode and freeze up or something. I won’t forgive whatever caused him to be like this.”

“Then it’s settled. The trip to the forest is in order as soon as we are done here with the ranch and had breakfast. Luckily, the trip to the forest is easy and safe.”

As everyone filtered out from the home, childish laughter caught all ears as every gaze went directed to the sound. Walking more into the ranch, the heroes came to the track where Malon was leaning against the fence, shouting words of encouragement to the little boy in green. 

Upon closer inspection, everyone saw Wild running after the sheep, trying to herd them around the track. Whoops and hollers came from Wild as he laughed away in the morning sun, sheep bleating and running away from the crazy boy. The scared little boy from early this morning was no more. Just a little boy happy as can be, chasing sheep like no tomorrow. Malon gave one more cheer before she flashed a smile to the others, beckoning the others to join in cheering the boy on. 

Wind itched to help the boy as he saw three sheep stray away from the track. And before he could stop himself, he went after the sheep as well. Wild became elated as he gave directions to Wind in herding the stray sheep. It was an endearing sight.

“You let the sheep out of the pen?”

Malon gave a big smile to her husband as she looked back to the boys running around. “I couldn’t see him in such a sad state, my dear. So I did what I could to liven up his spirits.”

Time couldn’t help but smile at the carefree attitude Wild had at the moment. It felt so right. An elbow to his side from his wife caught his attention.

“Careful, Mister Grumpy, your soft side is showing,” she giggled.

Time couldn’t help the smile from growing bigger. His mind reminded him of the others who were sneaking glances at him, smiles adorning their own features. “Don’t you guys have anything else to do? Like your chores?”

Rolling his eyes, Legend walked off, “Sure.”

Hyrule sent one last goofy smile to the couple before he ran off to join Legend for his chore. Soon, everyone began to disperse. The only ones left were Time, Malon, and Twilight. 

“You know,” Malon got the attention of the two, “He reminds me so much of you, Link. So full of energy.” Malon then directed her gaze to Twilight. “Did you know this man right here ran crazily after a cucco in the town square when we were kids?”

Time could only throw a frown to the two who were laughing. He didn’t need to close his eye to remember what his wife was talking about. “It wasn’t just me, you know.”

“Yes, yes. That little girl may have been chasing after the poor bird, but none were more determined than you. Wild reminds me so much like you.” Malon laughed.

Time couldn’t help but feel a bit of pride bubble within him. Luckily, they don’t know, but just seeing Wild run after the sheep and herding them into the pen with Wind’s help made him wonder if he would one day experience this in his life again. Thoughts aside, Time realized that Wild was running straight at them, each step filled with vigor.

“Did you see?! Did you see?!” exclaimed the little boy.

Malon bent down to scoop the child and spun him around as she praised him. “I did! You were just so amazing out there! They also thought you did wonderful as well!”

Looking back at Time and Twilight, Wild just flashed the cheekiest grin. “I did such a great job! Well, Wind helped me.”

“You did so great, cub.” Twilight said with pride. “I thought you were going to let all the sheep escape.”

“But I didn’t. Because I am just that awesome. But Malon! We gotta go feed the rest of the animals!” Wild remembered.

“Yes, yes,” she smiled. “We should go and do that hm.” And off they went. The child comfortably in her arms as Wild continued to chatter about how cool it was to herd the sheep.

“He didn’t seem to protest about being carried,” noted Twilight.

“Maybe he didn’t realize. Or maybe my wife just holds things with such tenderness. Either way, let him enjoy this moment. And then we can tease him about it later.”

Twilight just scoffed. “No need to get sappy and mischievous, Old Man.”

Time just threw him a smile and followed Twilight to get the needed chores done before heading out to the forest.

----------

As Time kissed his wife good-bye, the others waited by the entrance by the ranch as they talked amongst themselves or watched Wind help Wild catch a bug. Once Time made his presence known, they all set off to go to the forest. The walk was uneventful. The breeze carried the song of the birds and Wild’s chatter as he talked about the cool bug he got or anything that caught his eye. 

Seeing the beginnings of a forest, Time made the group pause as he stopped to look at a tree. Unbeknownst to the rest of the group, Time looked longingly at a particular tree branch. He almost missed the being that occupied that spot once. Gathering himself, Time turned to the others and explained, “It has been a while since I came back to the forest. The Kokiri are wary of strangers-”

“Just like the Sheikah from my world!” proclaimed Wild.

“Yes, Wild,” Time continued, “But please don’t go running off in unknown areas. I need you to stay close to me. You got it Wild?”

“Sure, Time.” said the boy.

“Wild, he means it. Otherwise, I will tie you to me.” Twilight added.

Wild just rolled his eyes and said, “I know how to follow directions. Gosh, what am I? Four?” he muttered. “Can we just go in? I wanna go in.”

Ruffling his hair, Warriors looked to Time and nodded for him to continue in leading the way. Walking even further into the trees, the others became amazed at how thick the woods became suddenly. Breaking out from the treeline, eyes widened in awe as they took in the forest haven. Crystal clear waters and the greenest of vegetation filled their line of sight. Childish laughter filled their ears as they saw small children chasing one another.

“A village of… children?” questioned Hyrule.

“Appearances can be deceiving,” Time responded. “Stay close. They don’t tend to take adults lightly without fairies.” 

Twilight stuck his hand out for Wild to grasp, which said child took it begrudgingly, and followed close behind Time. As a group of Kokiri and their fairies came running, the fairies stopped in their tracks, alerting the kokiri. Eyes went wide in shock as they took off running the other way. 

“Mido! Mido!” one of them cried out.

“Uh… should we be on guard or something? They won’t be attacking us?” asked Warriors.

“No need for worries. I know the one they called out to,” reassured Time. 

Footsteps soon caught everyone’s attention as a voice spoke, “Well, well, well. If it isn’t Link.”

Staring down at the red-haired kokiri, Time smiled fondly. “Mido, it is nice to see you.”

“It has been awhile since you last came. What business do you have to make this visit?”

Instead of saying anything, Time just stepped aside and showed Mido his companions, but more specifically the child Twilight was trying to restrain from wandering off. 

“You’re showing me your…companions?” questioned Mido with some confusion. Realization quickly dawned on the Kokiri as he made a terrible assumption, “There’s two of you?!”

Looking incredulously at Mido, Time looked between him and his companions, and then once more. “You do realize there are more than just two… right?”

Laughing to himself, Mido teased “Still dense as ever, Link. They cannot all be your sons. Maybe that other young one in the back can be… but then again...”

If Time was younger, he would have most likely choked at the mere assumption Mido just said. So he just resulted in widening his eye in shock. “No! I mean… These are my companions. And this one here,” he gestured to Wild who was trying to walk off, “He is a nephew.” Time finished that sentence quickly. He knew he didn’t have Mido convinced, but he would have to settle for that half-assed answer. 

Mido looked at how Wild was fighting Twilight’s grip, “Why not let the kid go? He can go play amongst the others as well.” Mido looked off at the distance as the group of Kokiri who were playing earlier were sticking their heads out from a hiding place. With uncertain steps, they approached their leader and the older group. “You all know of him, do you not? Why not take the kid and have some fun.”

Recognition shown in the eyes of the young kokiri as they realized that the man before them was none other than Link, a hylian accepted into the kokiri race. A single fairy flew around Wild and beckoned him to follow the other kokiri and fairies in a game of chase. With no regard to the others, Wild yanked his hand from Twilight’s hold and ran off with the others.

“I know how to follow directions,” Legend mocked. “I’ll keep an eye out for him.”

“There is no need for it,” Mido said, “This is like a safe haven.”

“That’s exactly what I worry about. With this mini moron running around, nothing will be safe.”

Before Mido could say another word, Time just sighed and shook his head. 

“Heh, so the boy is dangerous. Just like someone I know.”

“Oooo! Would it be another of your kind?” asked Wind.

“This guy here,” Mido pointed to Time. “Mr. Half-Man here was just like that boy. When he got his hands on his first sword, he was drunk with power as he swung that thing around like some toy.”

There were surprised noises coming from the others as they tried not gawking at the older hero. Malon had said some things about Time, but they were at times hard to believe that someone like Time would do such a thing. For them to learn something about the old man, it was gold. 

Heads turned when a creaking of a door was heard and other Kokiri poked their heads out. Mido just lifted his hand in greeting as the Kokiri went back in. Please forgive us, my people are wary of strangers. Well, the rest of you.”

“There is no need for explanations, Mido. I have already let them know what to expect.” Time looked at the others as he said those words.

“You would always avoid my questions, Link. What business do you have here? I can see this is not just some friendly visit.”

“That, I cannot fully explain,” Time said. “But I do have something to ask of you.”

Off in the distance, the others would hear Legend yelling at Wild to get off from the fence and not jump off.

-------

“So the waters do help with restoring the clothing then.”

“Yes,” Mido confirmed. “For a while, not sure if you realized, but the waters began to lose their magical properties. I have had some nightmares ever since the Great Deku Tree passed away. Monsters overran the land and forced us to hide away in our homes. We couldn’t take them on. But I awaken and immediately find relief once I see the young Deku Tree.”

Time and the others just listened on. 

“That’s horrible,” Wind spoke. “But at least they are nightmares.”

If only they knew, Time thought to himself. 

“But the waters are back as they were before everything happened. You would just need to dunk the boy in the water. Normally, it would have been in a graceful manner, but sensing the boy, it seems like he wouldn’t tolerate it.”

Twilight rubbed his head at the mere thought of how Wild would behave in such a ceremony. 

“I’m actually shocked the boy isn’t yours, Link. He seems to mirror you in your younger days. But you know… Now that I have gotten a good look at all of you, the boy seems to have more resemblance to you.” Mido said as he looked at Warriors. “Could he actually be yours?”

“Oh, Hylia...” Time groaned.

As the group continued chatting, a fairy appeared and whispered in Mido’s ear. He cleared his throat to catch the attention of the others. “It seems your boy has run off into the lost woods.”

Faces went pale as the heroes scattered out the door. 

As Time was about to walk out the door, Mido called out, causing said hero to halt his step. “Worry not, Mr. No-Fairy,” he gently teased, “Remember, the Lost Woods will just spit him back out at the entrance. But if you still decide to venture further, Saria would be ecstatic to see you once more. You know what to do.”

Sending a genuine smile, Time bid his farewell and left from the hut.

“He is just like you, Link,” Mido said fondly.

[stoopsbookstore]

Physically Wounded and Mentally Drained

"Can you help?"

Johnny stood outside the window of the closest person he knew lived by, the spoiled good-two-shoes, Y/N. His face was bloodied and his shirt had been torn open.

"Why should I?"

Y/N stood at the window, her arms crossed, the TV illuminating her room. The sounnds of sirens startling Johnny until he noticed the movie Y/N had been watching is now on a chase scene.

Johnny flashed Y/N the blood spots in his shirt, his body ready to keel over on her balcony.

"Please, can you just let me in? I did nothing wrong, but I know it's going to be twis-" Johnny's ramblings were cut off by the unlatching of the window, a rush of cool air from the AC hitting him in the face as thunder starts in the distance.

"Hurry up. I'll grab the first aid kit," Y/N pulled on the tall boy's shirt, shutting the window as soon as Johnny got his body inside, "it looks bad, it may be a minute."

"It feels bad," Johnny joked, tapping his chest, the tension in his body still high.

Plopping on the couch, Johnny looked at Y/N's room. A four-poster queen-sized bed with a cream colored canopy. Her desk was neatly organized with her statistics textbook open, signifying that she had been studying before his interruption. Reaching over, he grabbed the textbook.

"That's right," Johnny flipped through a few pages, the highlighted text a slight blur to him, "Douglas's exam is Monday."

"I forgot you're in the same class as me," Y/N took the damp rag in her hand, wiping the dirt off of Johnny's face, taking the textbook from him and throwing it on her bed, "and I'm going to ignore how you know where I live."

"Sorry, I know it's creepy to know where your mortal enemy lives, you can blame that prick, Hendery."

Johnny tried to break the tension, taking his leather jacket and placing it on the window ledge next to the couch. Y/N kept wiping the dirt and blood off where she could find, a need to help someone as awful as Johnny coming over her.

"Can you not get blood on the couch please? My parents would kill me," Y/N gave a towel to Johnny, the tall boy throwing it over his shoulders.

Mortal enemies? Awful?

"We're not mortal enemies," Y/N took some antiseptic out of the box of medicine, smearing it on a gash on Johnny's knuckles, "I just find you extremely annoying and vulgar. You and your friends just run amok with no sense of conseq-"

"And you and your friends act like a bunch of prudes, acting like you're better than everyone else because you come from money," Johnny winces when Y/N wiped the clean wound, a sharp inhale as she pulled a sharp piece of gravel from his flesh.

"Did you just forget who's helping you from whatever the fuck happened to you?"

Y/N continued to clean the injuries Johnny had acquired, the silence deafening. Biting his lip, he continued to look around her room. A decently sized TV sat on a 5-drawer dresser, the walls looked like they were painted a similar color to her bed. It looked like a normal room, Johnny can't figure out why that surprises him so much.

"I have to grab some gauze, I'll be back," Y/N kept her head down, walking to the bathroom.

Johnny took the chance to explore, although his body felt like collapsing. Looking in a mirror, he saw that the blood, dirt and gravel had vanished from his skin, but his shirt was still covered.

Y/N did a good job of cleaning me up.

He noticed a picture frame next to her bed. Walking over to it, he picked it up for a closer inspection. His eyes scanned the photo, it had to be a few years old as it looks like it was taken on the last day of their high school career. Y/N's uniform jacket was off, another girl had taken it to the side and Taeyong andbJaehy-

Taeyong? Jaehyun?

"I know I keep saying this, but plesse don't get blood on anything," Y/N took the photo from Johnny, placing it back on her nightstand, "I grabbed some of my dad's clothes you can change into."

"How do you know Taeyong and Jaehyun?" Johnny questioned.

"The normal response to someone giving you clothes is thank you," Y/N took Johnny's hand, wrapping up his knuckles in gauze and taping it closed.

"How do you know them?" Johnny stared at Y/N, towering over her like he did everyone else.

"How do you know Hendery?"

"I'm trying to be nice here. Understand you," Johnny threw his hands up in the air, hitting his thigh and wincing.

"Take your shirt off so I can throw these in the wash," Y/N grabbed the towel from the couch, holding her hand and doing her best to dodge the question.

"Are you ashamed of them?" Johnny took his shirt off, what looked like a shoe print on his skin and a gash on his abs.

Abs?

"N-no," Y/N stammered, taking the shirt from Johnny, wrapping it up in the towel and grabbing the first-aid kit, "I just haven't talked to them in a while."

"I know, they hang around me," Johnny chuckled, a slight smile appearing on Y/N's face.

"I should go put these in the washer," Y/N walked to her door, Johnny following behind her, "what are you doing?"

"I've never been in a place like this, when will I get another chance?" Johnny reached for the doorknob, Y/N reaching for his wrist, "I won't get blood on anything."

"I hope so. The blood should be congealed by now," Y/N quietly opened the door, checking down the hallway like a little kid on Christmas night looking for Santa, "ok, let's go."

Y/N tiptoed down the hallway, every step carefully planned while Johnny basically stomped, his footsteps on the shiny wood vibrating throughout the dark corridor.

"Can you be quieter please?" Y/N quietly yelled at the tall boy, "I don't want to get in trou-"

"Y/N, is that you?" Y/N pushed Johnny into a closet, a grown man standing at the landing of the stairs, "what are you doing?"

"I started my period and accidentally bled on my blankets," Y/N kept her body on the closet door, the handle jiggling, "I was going to throw them in the washer."

"Alright," footsteps could be heard retreating, "get to bed soon though, you have a test and an exam tomorrow. Love you."

"Love you, too."

Y/N cautiously opened the door, Johnny pretended to struggle for air as he walked out. Seeing Y/N's face, Johnny put his head down.

Getting to the laundry room, Y/N drenched the shirt in stain remover, an awkward silence falling over to the two. After Y/N put the shirt in the washer, with the few towels and rags she had used, she tended to the gash on Johnny's chest.

"Arms up."

"I was jumped by those SVT guys," Johnny confessed while Y/N placed a patch and wrapped the large gauze around his chest, "3 of them. I'm surprised it wasn't more. That Mingyu dude has a good kick and Church dude has a punch like I've never seen."

Y/N stayed quiet.

"Are you okay?"

"You're the one wounded, I don't think you should be asking me that," Y/N taped the gauze, putting back the first-aid kid back together.

"I'm sorry for what I said earl-"

"Water under the bri-"

"Y/N, what's goin-"

"I'm fine, I promi-"

"Clearly no-" Johnny's voice grew louder in the small room.

"Will you please keep it down?"

"Will you tell me what's wrong? You've been quiet ever since your dad almost caught us," Y/N kept her mouth shut, cleaning up around the room to avoid the question, "Look. I'm trying to be nice here. Will you please tell what's going on?"

"You wouldn't understand, Mr. I do what I want. I had to stop being friends with Jaehyun and Taeyong because they were quote-unquote bad influences," Y/N finally snapped, throwing a shoe at Johnny, narrowly missing the newly dressed wound, "Mr. I get to do what I please and not have to worry about grades or jobs or maintaining relationships where your parents control every aspect of your life."

Johnny tried to talk, but the floodgates had opened, Y/N let everything out, her eyes watering with every syllable.

"You get to go and be free when I have to be like the perfect child for my parents. I can't even go to any functions on campus like the Spring Fling or the Fall Festival because my parents probably signed me up to watch a booth or volunteer at the snack tables. Do you realize how hard it is to be my age, in classes for a degree, and not have a job because my parents don't want me to get one because I'll just marry my dad's friend's son. I don't even like Minho like that and I'm excepted to just fall in love with someo-"

"Breathe. Ok, please just breathe," Johnny noticed Y/N had started shaking, her body trembling, "are you okay if I hug you?"

Y/N nodded. Johnny's long arms tugged her closer, her sobs muffled by his chest.

"Let's get you back to your room."

"But your shirt."

"I'll pick it up later."

Walking back to her room, Johnny helped Y/N to her couch, her head landing on his shoulder. The TV had begun playing infomercials, Johnny's hand rubbing Y/N's arm in an effort to calm her down.

"I know it's hard, but you'll be okay. I went through the same stuff when I was younger. Finally, Doyoung kicked me in the ass and told me to move in with him. I've been on my own since I was 16. My parents were pissed."

Tilting her chin up, Johnny reassured Y/N with a simple smile.

"You know, I've learned more about you in the hour or so you've been bandaging me up than I have in the years we've known each other."

"Is that a bad thing?"

"No, I think it gives me a new understanding about you. Hopefully it's the same vice versa."

"Yeah, you're physically wounded and I'm emotionally drained."

The pair laughed, rain tapping on the window.

"I guess I'm stuck here now."

"The couch folds ou-"

"I was joking. Your parents wouldn't be too happy if they discovered a rebel like me in the princess's room."

"They're out of the house by 7am and they don't check on me, just a call around 8 to make sure I'm up," Y/N unwrapped Johnny's arm from her shoulder, wobbly standing up to grab a blanket from her closet, "worse comes to worse, just run in the closet, it's big enough to hide in."

"Thanks, princess."

"Will you be okay?" Y/N flipped through the channels as Johnny got comfortable on the couch, his jacket acting as a pillow.

"Will you?"

[a-bit-too-much-of-a-zelda-fan]

LinkedUniverse Fanfic Ch. 4: The Beach pt. 2

Stop! You’ve Violated the Law!

So, you’ve stumbled upon this original post for my Linked Universe fanfiction. That’s okay, it happens to everyone. As of March 2021, I’ve uploaded the entirety of this fanfic to my Archive of Our Own page. Along with finally giving the story a name--Oops! All Links: A Linked Universe Story--I made substantial edits to some of the chapters. These range from minor stylistic revisions to fixing a gaping plot hole that kinda completely broke the character conflict in the earlier chapters. I also renamed and renumbered (but not reordered) the chapters. Specifically, this is now Chapter 5: Stars and Stories.

The AO3 iterations of these chapters are the definitive versions. So, if you would like to read this fanfiction, please do so on AO3, right here. With this embedded link. Hehe. Geddit? Link?

Note: My screen name on AO3 is FrancisDuFresne. Yes, that is me. I am not plagiarizing myself.

Anyway, for posterity’s sake, the rest of the original post is below the cut.

Continuation of my @linkeduniverse narrative you can find here Thank you again @jojo56830 for creating this AU that is so inspiring to write for! Word count is 2143.

Wild checked his Sheikah Slate. The map function was finally working again, having lost reception in the cave. The village the nine heroes were traveling to was still a day’s walk away. He looked up from the slate and stared into the distance. The beach faded into rolling hills, obscuring their destination. He turned back to his companions.

They were drying off from their swim. Hyrule found wood washed up on the shore and started a fire with it. The orange flames complemented the purple dusk as the sun set. Wind and Twilight sat together facing the ocean. Wind was splayed out, enjoying the view that reminded him of home. Twilight had his knees tucked close to his chest, hugging his shins.

The younger of them turned to the older. He was about to compliment him on his Great Spin Attack back in the water but stopped when he saw his face. An odd expression played across Twilight’s features. Was it sadness? Contemplation? Regret? Wind couldn’t tell but decided against asking. It was probably better, he reasoned, to let Twilight be.

Wild started walking back to the fire. Legend looked up at him, opening his mouth as if about to say something. Wild shot him a glare, then spoke. “Before you ask me rudely, I’ll just say it. The village is a day’s walk away. Once we leave this beach, it’ll be hills for a few hours, a brief walk through light woods, then flatlands to finish it off. If we don’t hit any snags, we’ll be there by sundown.”

A general murmur of acknowledgment passed around the circle. Wild sat down between Four and Warrior and lowered his head. He felt awful for letting his friends down in the cave. “Guys,” he began. “I’m sorry about back there. I didn’t think that would happen.”

No one spoke for a moment. Warrior spoke up. “Don’t worry about it. Luckily, Sky here kept a cool head and was able to guide us out. Just warn us when that might happen again. It always pays to have a contingency.”

“Wait a moment,” Sky piped up. “What do you mean ‘if we don’t hit any snags?’”

Wild sighed. “There may or may not be enemy camps in that forest. My map can’t say for sure. I’d say we’re well-prepared for a fight, though. How’s our arrow count?”

Legend shuffled through his pouch. “Forty-two. We’re going to want to stock up when we hit that village. You sure your weapons are battle-ready?”

He was referring to the chipped sword and dented stalfos shield lying by Wild’s pouch. He was going to ask Wild about the shield but figured that the fight damaged his original shield beyond repair. Wild wasn’t very selective about the weapons he used. “Yes,” Wild said sharply. “They’ll be fine.”

“So, monsters,” Warrior said. “What are we looking at?”

“I can’t tell. Could be moblins, bokoblins, who knows? At least this time we’re walking through the woods during the day. I’ve had enough fights in the dark for a while.”

“Hm. Well, we’ll just have to be on full alert. Which also means we should get some shuteye.”

Wind patted Twilight on the shoulder, got up, and strolled over to the fire. “Wait,” he said. “I still want to know about Four’s power.”

The shortest Link’s Four Sword had the power to split him into four separate heroes. Prior to using it in desperation during the stalfos fight, he had never mentioned it to any of his companions. It took so much energy out of him that he fainted immediately after becoming whole again. He only woke up hours later, when they had reached the beach.

Four sighed. “Well, it’s my sword. It was gifted to the Hylians by the Minish race. It was originally called the Picori Blade. The sorcerer Vaati shattered it when he unleashed evil upon Hyrule. I journeyed the kingdom finding four sacred elements. With the help of the Minish, I forged it into this.”

He raised the Four Sword, firelight playing off the blade. Like Sky’s Master Sword, it somehow seemed to reflect light brighter than anything else around it. “The Four Sword,” the hero continued. “It has the power to split me into four people. They’re fragments, not copies. My personality splits between them. We used to argue a lot, but now we can fight in perfect unison.”

Sky, Wind, and Legend exchanged glances. They had all gone through a similar process to make their swords. They used sacred flames, pure metals, and dwarven blacksmiths and a great fairy, respectively. It occurred to them that there seemed to be a pattern.

Four continued: “It takes a lot of energy out of me to use that power. I didn’t want the burden of you all pressuring me to use it. I’m sorry.”

“Like I said earlier,” Legend spoke up. “Don’t worry about it. Without that, we would have kicked the bucket back there.”

A moment of silence passed. Legend scanned the group. “So, that being said, anyone else have any powers they haven’t mentioned? Now would be an opportune time to tell us.”

Wind perked up. “You know that my sword can stop time, right?”

“Yes. How could we forget with you always telling us? It would help if you actually remembered that when we’re in combat. I seem to remember Twi needed to save your hide in the cave because you forgot. Again.”

“Geez, I get it. Don’t have to rub it in.”

Time froze. He did indeed have powers he had never told anyone but Malon of. The masks he acquired in Termina were instrumental in stopping Majora’s Mask, but he hated wearing them with a passion. Wearing a dead person’s soul had always made him feel sick. The Fierce Deity’s Mask terrified him. Its power was so great that he feared if he ever put it on again, he might not want to take it off.

He was snapped out of his thoughts by Legend pointed flourishing his left wrist. Everyone looked at it expectantly, figuring some transformation would happen. It didn’t. “This bracelet here is a gift from my counterpart in an alternate world,” he said. “His name is Ravio. Dunno where he got the thing, but I can use it to transform myself into a painting.”

This was met by a mix of mild surprise and indifference. “What?” Legend asked. “No big reaction?”

Sky shrugged. “Well, that sounds cool and all, but how useful can it really be?”

Legend snorted and cocked an eyebrow. “You’d be surprised. It’s gotten me out of many a sticky spot.”

“Why haven’t you used it around us yet, then?” Hyrule prodded.

Silence. Legend flushed and sat there a moment, then admitted: “I… haven’t had a good chance to use it.”

“You probably could have used it in the cave,” Sky suggested. “We were surrounded by walls. Could’ve pulled a sneaky on the Stalfos.”

“Well, I haven’t used it for so long that I… kinda forgot about it.”

Wind shouted out, “Ah ha! Look who’s forgetting useful powers in the middle of combat, now!”

Time chuckled. “You do have to take it off and put it back on every time you get dressed. You’d think you would remember of it.”

“Listen!” Legend growled. “I just wanted to tell… urgh, whatever.”

The Links had a good laugh over this all. Time sighed in relief. No attention had fallen on him after all. As much as he hated keeping secrets from his friends, he was still afraid they would ask him to use the masks. Worse still, if they would become afraid of him. Fortunately, that discussion could wait until another day. A day that might never come, Time hoped.

After the laughter subsided, Four remembered the question that had been nagging at him all day. “Alright, so after I rejoined and fainted, Legend carried my weapons. Who carried me?”

“It was Twi. Not really a shock, is it?” Warrior said. “He picked you up as soon as I made sure you weren’t dead.”

It didn’t occur to Four that it wouldn’t be obvious that he fainted, that they might think he died. They had never seen anything like that before. “Oh. Thanks. Didn’t mean to give you guys a scare like that.”

Warrior shrugged. “Eh, you’re good.”

“Thanks. But what about Twi? Is he okay? He’s been sitting there by the water since we got out.”

Time was facing away from the water. He turned around to face his friend. Twilight was in the same position as before, staring off into the ocean. The sun had long set, so all that could be seen out there was the stars and their reflections. Still facing Twilight, Time said to the rest of them: “It’s probably not the first time he’s carried a fallen friend on his back. Maybe he’s reliving bad memories?”

Wild bowed his head fraction and sighed. “He wouldn’t be the first. Someone ought to check on him.”

“I will,” Time said. “Don’t wait on us to get some rest. We have a long day ahead.”

“When is it ever not a long day?” Wind muttered. This got a few giggles.

With a grunt, Time pushed himself off the sand. He turned and strolled over to Twilight. He paused a moment to appreciate the beautiful ocean view. The breeze was getting chilly. Content, he lowered himself to the ground next to Twilight.

“Twi.” Time said. “What’s wrong?”

Twilight kept staring ahead, but Time could tell his eyes were red and his cheeks damp. Time had never seen him this upset; it was a tad unnerving. “I need a minute,” he choked out, “okay?”

Time shook his head. “You’ve had plenty of minutes. What’s wrong?”

“It’s just… carrying Four out of there reminded me of a really terrible thing that happened… At one point, Midna was mortally wounded by a light spirit. As a wolf, I ran all the way to Hyrule Castle with her on my back. She barely managed to say that we needed Zelda.

“I was terrified that she wouldn’t make it. It was pouring that night. By the time I reached Castletown, my fur was sopping wet. I couldn’t get into the castle through the gate, so I had to take the sewers in. Every detour, every obstacle, every monster slowed me down. I felt like there was a clock ticking in my head, reminding me that Midna was on borrowed time.”

Clock ticking in his head, Time thought. If only he knew.

“Once we reached Zelda, she said that it wasn’t her duty to save Hyrule. It was up to Midna and me. Then she held Midna’s hand in hers and…”

Twilight choked up again. He didn’t bother to wipe the fresh tears off his face. After staying silent for almost a minute, he continued. “Zelda gave her life force to Midna, reviving her. By the time Midna realized what was happening, it was too late. She was screaming, begging Zelda to stop, but before we know it, Zelda was just… gone.

“Of course, it ended up working out for us all. For the most part. But that was awful. Carrying Four wasn’t really that bad. We knew he was okay, and I only needed to carry him until he woke up. But—”

“But,” Time interrupted, “the strangest things can trigger these awful memories. Trust me, I know… I’m sorry. About what happened that night.”

With a sniffle, Twilight finally looked up at Time. Between the puffy eyes, tear-stained cheeks, and wind-disheveled hair, Twilight was an utter wreck. Time gazed into his eyes. They had a certain depth to them that he saw every time he looked in a mirror. His expression softened.

“Come here,” Time said as he put an arm around his friend and pulled him closer. They sat there a while in silence. The only sound was the gentle surf moving to and fro ahead of them. The breeze brought a biting chill now, and Time could feel Twilight shiver under his arm.

Time withdrew his arm and stood. He turned to face the fire. It was starting to die off. The Links seemed to either be asleep or falling so. Wind was snoring softly. Wild was rolled on his side and could have been asleep had the faint light of his Slate not been glowing. Time remembered their earlier exchange about Twilight not being the only one to relive bad memories.

Twilight stood as well, and the two heroes walked forward together. They laid down in the company of their other selves, their friends. It was a beautiful scene: nine young heroes circled around a dying fire on a secluded beach, starlight glittering off the ocean. As the embers cooled and flickered to darkness, so were the Links stolen by sleep.

[digikate813]

My Little Pony Re-Watch: Episode 27 & 28 Return of Harmony

* DISCORD!! I’M HOWLING AT THE MOON!! AND SLEEPING IN THE MIDDLE OF A SUMMER AFTERNOON!!!

*Now that that’s out of my system, we have arrived at Season 2! With our first two part adventure, save Equestria story since the very first episode. This is one of the most memorable episodes in the entire series. Another one of those episodes that clicked with viewers and solidified some as official bronies. This may be the toughest one yet to keep to just bullet points, but I’ll do my best.

*It’s weird to me that the way Cheerilee describes Discord makes him sound like a legend rather then a historical figure. Like Nightmare Moon. Maybe they just didn’t want ponies to worry knowing that the embodiment of chaos was one chisel and hammer away from freedom.

*On that note it’s never been quite clear how Discord was freed in the first place. The official explanation is that since Celestia and Luna aren’t the bearers of the Elements anymore, the spell they placed was broken. But that happened a while ago, so it seems weird the statue would crack now. It’s also a running joke in the fandom that the CMCs arguing freed Discord. It could be a combination of the two, I’m just surprised this hasn’t been brought up since. Even as a joke.

*Something that is really nice about this episode is that you see how far the Mane Six have come as a group. Once chaos starts erupting in Ponyville, they rally together like a well oiled machine to quell it the best the can. And once Discord officially challenges them, they stay confident in their abilities. It’s a great demonstration of their progression.

*You can also tell the animators and the rest of the crew had way too much fun with the episode. Chaos and disharmony means anything is a go! Cotton candy clouds. Chocolate milk rain (insert obvious joke here). Soap roads. Cottages floating in the air. Ballet dancing Buffalo. And too much more to list! It’s insanity and a sight to behold in just how bizarre and nonsensical it gets! And there’s even more to the creativity and insanity here, but we’ll get to that later.

*This is where we’re introduced to the stain glass windows in the palace. Depicting important events in Equestrian history (though I’ve noticed that a certain banishment isn’t depicted anywhere.....) This is a visual device I always liked and I’m sad the show seems to have abandoned them in later seasons. I’d love to see fanart of later season finales depicted in the glass window style. So if anyone knows about someone who does it, feel free to let me know.

*As I mentioned, this is where we learn that Celestia and Luna can’t use the Elements anymore because the Mane Six are now their bearers. This adds a bit more credibility against the common complaint that the Mane Six are the only ones who are capable of stopping incoming threats. It’s not that they are the only ones capable. They just took action at the right time, and became bonded to the ancient relics that now embody the best of themselves.

*Speaking of which where is Luna? How come i don’t see more people ask about that??

*One of my favorite things My Little Pony related to watch is reaction videos to this episode, and watching people freak out when they realize Discord is played by John De Lancie. Depending on who you get, it is freaking priceless! But for context I had no idea who De Lancie was. In fact the first episode of Star Trek I ever saw was a TNG episode with him in it because I wanted to know what all the fuss was about.

*But i can also vouch that Discord works exceptionally as a character even if you don’t know his inspiration. It’s no wonder that Discord became an instant fan favorite. Jahn De Lancie gives an incredibly memorable performance, his design is distinct and represents his chaotic nature perfectly, and I’d argue he was the most challenging villain the girls have faced in the series (but we’ve still got one more season to go so that could change)

*What made Discord such a great villain was not only how powerful he was, with obvious inspiration from his Star Trek counterpart, right down to him snapping his fingers and his magic often accompanied by a white flash, not only how much he absolutely reveled in the chaos he created with almost every movement, but how he manipulated the girls. Taking away what made them such strong friends without them even realizing it.

*The Mane Six being “discorded” as it would later be dubbed by fans, is a brilliant way to subdue the threat they present, without an obvious way to fix it. Seeing the girls be change into their exact obvious is eerie, disturbing, and kind of heartbreaking. But is also pretty funny at just how far it can go. 

*It even comes with this great visual of the girls slowly losing their color and turning gray. This would become an iconic visual cue for fanworks. When i saw it it kind of reminded me of that episode of the Powerpuff Girls where the color is drained from Townsville. Which freaked me out as a kid, so this visual reminding me of that only added to the foreboding situation they were in.

*Rarity’s generosity being turned to greed is probably where most of the laughs come from. Especially with her infatuation with Tom the Boulder. Convinced it’s a diamond.

*Everypony sort of gets manipulated and talked into falling for Discord’s spell. Praying on insecurities. Except for Fluttershy! Who’s so accepting of her flaws that she can’t be manipulated! Discord ends up doing it by force, which is kind of funny, but I am so proud of Fluttershy not giving into to the Lord of Chaos’ words. But I’m sure that won’t be important in the future.

*Twilight makes it through the maze without getting Discorded and still with the hope that they can save the day. Despite how much her friends new attitudes are aggravating her. 

*But I do get a kick out of the fact that Twilight accuses Discord of not playing fair. No duh he’s not playing fair Twi. He’s the villain!! That’s not his job!

*Rarity with Tom is a joke that manages not to get old, but why they don’t use their magic to move that boulder once they get their horns back is anypony’s guess.

*I don’t know if we’ve reached the point of saying “this happened in a My Little Pony” cartoon, but i doubt any of the other generations had the main characters and closest friends beating each other up fighting over a book.

*Twilight dubbing Spike the new Rainbow Dash will never not be funny!

*Can we talk about the sound mixing real quick? Not only does this episode have this great memorable score, feeling just as “off” as the rest of the events, but I think they had just as much fun adding the sound effects as they did with the animation. From Discord’s claps all having different weird sound effects, to Pinkie’s bounce while she Discorded sounding like a broken spring. It’s details like that that really sell the fact that nothing is how it’s supposed to be

*In a way, Twilight endurance and frustration during all of this is kind of a role reversal from the first episode. Think about it, if the others had been brainwashed then, she would have instantly ditched them to solve the problem herself. But this time, she knows the best way to stop Discord is together with her friends. But when the Elements don’t work like last time, and she realizes they can’t do it together, she gives up. 

*And the moment where Twilight turns gray and sheds a tear in the shape of a broken heart?! Augh! Right in the chest! It’s one of those moments in an animated show where you are sure thing are going to be fine by the end, given the kind of show it is, but it keeps you wrapped in the moment long enough to feel what Twilight is feeling. That this situation is hopeless. And if you ask me, that’s what counts.

*I really love the way Twilight comes around. With Celestia sending all of the friendship letters she’s written over the last season back to here. Reminding her of why she believes in the magic of friendship so much, and reigniting that spark she found back during the battle with Nightmare Moon. This might have been a bit more impactful if this was the season finale like it was originally planned to, but it’s still very meaningful and triumphant.

*But poor Spike having to belch all of those letters out. I felt so bad for the little guy. He may have been left out of the main action again, but he may have made the greatest sacrifice of all.

*So Big Mac’s Discorded self is, a dog? I have no idea what that says about his true self, but okay.

*Twilight helping all of the others remember who they really are is a great solution. Part of me wishes we could have seen all of their memory flashes, like with Applejack, as a way to look back on how far they’ve all come and what they’ve all learned together. But then i guess we wouldn’t have the chase scene to get Rainbow back, so it’s a decent trade off.

*And I like the role reversal of the fact that they helped Twilight discover the magic of friendship in the first episode, and now she’s doing the same for them by reminding them of that friendship. It really feels like things have come full circle.

*An awesome final stand off with Discord, reinforced by probably my favorite message in one of these two parts. That friendship isn’t always easy and has rough patches. But it’s something special and powerful and always worth fighting for. Solidified as Discord TASTES THE RAINBOW as he’s turned back to stone. I’m sure he won’t be back.

I think it goes without saying that this episode is AMAZING!! Introducing one of the shows best characters IMO. Brilliantly executed and full of laughs, suspense, and some of the greatest hurdles and challenges the Mane Six have ever faced. And it made the triumph all the more satisfying. I don’t know what else I can say but this set a really high bar for the rest of Season 2. Next Time: Lesson Zero!

[sairyn-noc]

The Age Old Question

Harvey was in a state of panic. It was a month before Mike’s wedding and emotions he long thought buried were attacking him on every front. The room swayed, while beads of sweat erupted across his skin. It was so bad, he debated calling Dr. Akard for a session. Leaving. Mike was leaving. It’s not as if Harvey was under some illusion that the dream team could stay together forever. But having found out that far away reality was happening in a month’s time, right after the wedding? That was enough to send anyone to a therapist.

Mike was in Harvey’s office giving both he and Donna yet another update. Then something happened. Harvey wasn't sure, but he lost focus somewhere along the way. He was only able to catch snippets.

“Moving to California…”

“Week after the wedding…”

“No honeymoon…”

“Found a perfect place…”

Harvey couldn't say anything, didn't know what to say. All he could do was hear his own voice repeating over and over… I thought I had more time.

Mike’s voice brought him back. “Say something, Harvey,” Mike implored shyly.

A new tidal wave of words and thoughts crossed Harvey’s mind, but he eventually settled on the ones that were “right.”

“Congratulations. Seriously. No matter where you go, I know that you will be successful.”  

As for those other words, the ones he had swallowed more times than he could remember; Harvey left them unsaid. Because nothing, absolutely nothing good could come from saying them now. It wasn't like he was in love with the man. Loved him? No doubt. Wanted him? Harvey’s brain tripped over that question before landing solidly on ‘yes’. Over the years, Harvey with Mike at his side had crossed almost every line imaginable; all except that one. They’d come close on more than one occasion, but the thought of ruining their partnership among other regrets was enough for one or both of them to take a step back and return them both to status quo. And now they would never know.

Finish on AO3

Mike encircled Harvey in a quick hug. Upon being released, he gazed up at Harvey and smiled silently. Somehow Harvey had the feeling Mike was thinking the same thing.

“Thanks, Harvey. For everything.”

“Yeah, yeah. I’m just glad Jessica isn't here. She’d make me go out and try and find another associate. And how am I going to find another genius law school dropout to drop weed at my feet?”

They shared a quick chuckle before Harvey continued.  “Have you lined up a job yet? I could make some calls.”

“Nah, I’m good, Harvey. I’ve already reached out to some firms. Besides, all I need are some tasty waves, a cool buzz, and I'm fine,” Mike quoted perfectly.

“Alright, Spicoli. Get back to work. Lots to do before the big day.”

“Yep,” he answered popping the ‘p’.

“Yeah,” Harvey said aloud. There were so many things he would miss about Mike.

Since then, Mike had cleaned up his case files, packed up his life and married the woman he loved. Harvey knew this because he witnessed it all. He did all his best man duties with flourish- making sure Mike got the biggest bachelor party he could imagine. Then stood next to the man and smiled while nursing the biggest hangover he could remember. He even managed to make one hell of a toast to the new couple. He felt nothing but pride watching Mike take this last step. Lord knows the kid deserved more than a slice of heaven after the last year.  

Three days later, Harvey found a note in his office; an invitation of sorts. He frowned upon reading the words. It wasn’t the first time Mike had asked for Harvey to meet him at some bar to grab a drink, but he usually didn't do so via note. Harvey hadn’t seen Mike since the wedding, not that he had expected to. What he did expect was to attend the goodbye dinner planned for the night before they flew out, say a few words, then head home to drink himself blind. Apparently, it seemed, Mike had other ideas. Harvey tried calling, but it went straight to voicemail. With a heavy sigh Harvey grabbed his jacket and did what he always did when Mike called; he went.

When Harvey walked into the Warwick Hotel, he headed straight to the bar. Mike was perched on one of the chairs, dressed comfortably in smart black pants and a sweater, sipping a long neck.

“Shouldn't you be locked in your bedroom with your new bride?” he inquired, grabbing the chair next to him.

Mike looked up. “Harvey. I’m glad you came.”

“Why wouldn't I?” he answered, signaling the bartender.

Mike looked away briefly. “I don't know. Maybe I thought you wouldn't want to...”

Harvey watched Mike’s fingers fidget with the bottle of his beer. Clearly, something was on his mind. Harvey leaned in a bit closer, concern creeping up his spine.

“Mike? Hey. Talk to me. Did something happen? You and Rachel…”

Mike’s head whipped up quickly. “No, nothing like that. Well, I mean not how you are thinking.

“Then what is it?”

“Let’s grab a booth.”

Now Harvey was really worried. He quickly ordered a beer and followed Mike to a corner booth. Mike slid in and went silent. He played some more with his beer and looked everywhere except at Harvey. Harvey felt his hackles go up, ready to fight whatever trouble Mike had found himself in.

“Mike, you're scaring me. Whatever it is, we can handle it. Just tell me.”

Mike lifted the bottle and took a heavy swallow. “Okay,” he mumbled. He caught Harvey’s gaze; his blue eyes were so dark they sparkled like stars in the night sky.

“Okay,” he said again, this time a bit louder.

Harvey straightened.

“I asked you here tonight because I couldn’t leave without knowing.”

“Without knowing what?”

“Without knowing what I was leaving behind.”

Harvey turned the words over in his head, trying to figure out what was missing from the statement.

“Okay Mike, I’ll bite. What are you leaving behind?”

“You,” he breathed.

“What? I hope you don't expect me to pack up and move to California with you and Rachel because that’s just not going to happen,” he joked.

“That’s not what I am suggesting...although…,” he tapered off, his goofy smile breaking the tension.

“Well, now that we have got that straightened out,” Harvey deadpanned.

“What about me?”

“Harvey. Promise me you’ll hear me out, okay?”

Harvey nodded.

“I think you and I both know there have been times. Moments where it felt like there was something between us. Something more than friends. I mean not all the time, but sometimes it just felt… feels different.”

The world tilted briefly. Harvey took a slow breath righting his brain. This was dangerous territory; forbidden territory and Harvey wasn’t sure he wanted to go any further.

“Of course, I mean after all we've been through it's not surprising...”

“Stop Harvey. Just stop. Don't deflect. Not with me. You can't sit there and tell me you have no idea what I am talking about. That you haven't felt the same pull. I know you have. I have seen it in your eyes, felt it in the way you have touched me. How many nights did I wonder what it would be like if we were to cross that line? I thought it would go away, but it didn't. And I know this is selfish and all kinds of wrong, but I couldn't walk away, without at least trying. I want this Harvey. But if you don't, say the word and we will never talk about this ever again.”

Harvey finished his beer, buying himself time to work his way around Mike’s confession. He knew what Mike was talking about. And of course, he felt it, too. He could admit that he had thought about it, more than once even. But that didn't make it right. Mike was a married man. What he was suggesting was wrong. It had to be. “So, you left Rachel sitting at home to come out and proposition me? And for what? Some cheap one-night stand? You could have picked up anyone for that. And honestly, you should've done that before you got married.”

The accusation roiled through Mike. Harvey could see it in the way he sat up straighter, leaned in a little closer. Mike's voice was tight and controlled.

“First off, I would never, could never just have picked up a random stranger. I just wouldn't. This has nothing to do with having some last fling. And everything with the man I am sitting across from. I have wanted you from the moment I met you. But acting on those feelings was too risky. I couldn't bear losing what we had. I put them aside and moved on. As for Rachel. She knows where I am; she knows what I am doing. She sent me here- with her blessing.”

Mike’s fingers brushed up against Harvey’s hand. Soft and warm, like a whisper or a promise. Harvey inched back, creating space between them.

Mike’s shoulders slumped. “Say something, Harvey.”

“What do you want me to say?”

“Yes. No. Something, anything.”

“You want me to say something? I’ll say something. Go home to your wife. You’re leaving me, remember?” He didn't care that he lashed out in anger, or even that the words reflected the truth he hadn’t yet come to terms with. Mike was leaving. Not just his job, or New York but also him, and Harvey didn't want to think about how much that truth hurt.

Harvey stood to leave when Mike’s grip stopped him. “Fine. I’ll go.” Mike got up as well, his grip on Harvey’s arm unchanged. “But not before I say one more thing. I may be leaving New York, but I am not leaving you. I could never leave you. Yes, I love my wife, but believe it or not, I also love you. I do. And I know that this is fucked up…”

“Damn right it is,” Harvey muttered, gritting his teeth.

“But for one night, I want to know what it feels like to love and be loved by you. And deep down inside, I think you want that, too.”

Mike dropped a room key on the table and exited the booth.

All the air left Harvey’s lungs in one large exhale. The room vanished; his focus disappearing until the only thing Harvey could see was the plastic keycard in front of him. Harvey didn't want to think about it; didn't want to hear and re-hear Mike’s words. Because if he did, he would have to concede Mike was right. He did want to know what it would be like to be with Mike in every way possible. But that didn't make it right, despite the telltale twitch in his pants. Harvey was mad. Mad at Mike for having the gall to set this all up; to offer himself up, like some prize to be won. But more importantly, he was mad at himself, for wanting to say yes.

Harvey slumped back into the booth. He didn't know how long he sat there, nursing his long-empty bottle, staring at the key that mocked him, tempted him. He didn't want to touch it; afraid if he did he wouldn't be able to stop himself from using it. He had a choice to make. One night. With Mike. Could he do it? And if he did, could he walk away? Harvey got up, intent on walking out of the bar and never thinking about his conversation with Mike again. He was going to leave the key on the table and just walk away. That would be the smart thing. But as he had proven over the years, he never could do the right thing when it came to Mike. With a muttered curse, he dropped some cash on the table and grabbed the key.

Harvey would like to say he strode confidently from the elevator to the indicated room- top floor none the less, sure in his decision. That though would be a lie. The truth was, that with every step, his self-doubt - mixed with a hint of self-loathing  - made his legs a little wobbly. He didn't like cheaters; he didn't cheat. But was it cheating if the spouse knew? Semantics, his brain supplied. And what about the fact he was getting ready to have sex with a man; something Harvey had not done since college. He knew Mike was bi (yet another reason to hate Trevor), but he didn't classify himself to be anything other than a straight guy who experimented. Once. This though was not some drunken fumble; it would be a conscious, deliberate choice. He quickly debated leaving, having reached the door, but somewhere in the back of his mind, he knew he wanted this; wanted Mike too much. That was the secret he never wanted to admit to anyone; especially himself.

The key felt heavy in his grip. Moisture from his palm had made it slippery. It took a couple of tries before he was able to raise his hand to the handle. If Harvey did this, there would be no turning back. He paused; took a moment to examine if he could really go through with it. Not that it mattered. Harvey had known the minute he’d picked that damn key up off the table, the die was cast. It was too late to turn back now. Harvey was an all or nothing guy. And right now, he wanted all of what was on the other side of the door. He slid the plastic square into the slot and watched the light turn green, granting him entry. With a deep breath, Harvey reached for the handle, turned the knob and walked inside.

Mike was standing by the window, a glass in his hand, his sleeves rolled up, looking out at the night sky.

“I didn't think you would come,” he said, not moving.

“Neither did I,” Harvey answered, his voice devoid of emotion.

“So why did you? Are you here to lecture me some more about morals and values.”

“No.”

Mike turned then to look at Harvey. His eyes were hard, looking for any lie. Harvey stood his ground, unwilling to look anywhere but the man in front of him.

“Then why are you here?”

Harvey stepped further into the room, stopping a few feet from Mike who had not moved again.

“Honestly, I don't know.”

“Then maybe you shouldn't be here.”

Harvey sharply inhaled, his gut twisting. Mike was giving him a way out if he wanted it. It should have been a relief, but for some reason, it just felt… wrong. More wrong than anything else.

“I thought I was invited,” he joked awkwardly.

“That doesn't mean anything.”

“I’m here, aren’t I?” he replied, looking down at his shoes.

“Not good enough, Harvey. If you are not completely sure about this...” Mike’s voice was soft, mournful even. “I can't… I won’t… No matter how much I want to… You have to be…”

“I’m sure.” The words slipped out quickly, without thought. For a second, Harvey panicked, thought he should take them back, but just as quickly that thought passed. Because no matter how fucked up the situation was surrounding them, giving up on this was not an option.

Harvey looked up and met Mike’s eyes. “I’m sure,” he repeated.

Mike placed his glass on a nearby table, his eyes never leaving Harvey’s. He took a step towards Harvey. Then another. Then another. He didn't stop until he was stood inches away. Sweat bloomed on Harvey’s brow, his heart beating rapidly.

“Harvey,” Mike’s voice was soft; his breath warm as it ghosted across his face.

Harvey was lost in the blue eyes looking at him with so much emotion, he felt surrounded.

“Mike, I'm…”

Harvey didn't get to finish his sentence as Mike’s lips brushed against his own. It was a taste, a brief tease, a promise; and before Harvey could get used to the idea that Mike was kissing him, it was over. And that was not acceptable. Harvey chased those lips like they held the answer to every question he ever had. Soft fingers on his chin stopped his progress and lifted his face until he could gaze into Mike’s eyes.

“I want this, Harvey. I want you.” Mike’s voice was soft, reverent even. His lips grazed Harvey’s once again, all the while his fingers kept his face still.

“No regrets,” he whispered.

Harvey’s arms reached around, circling Mike’s waist. “No regrets,” he answered, closing his eyes and leaning back in.

Harvey sighed against Mike’s lips, felt Mike’s tongue tentatively brush against his lower lip asking for permission which Harvey granted. The groan that rumbled from Mike’s throat made Harvey shudder. The kiss further deepened; it was hard and filthy and perfect. Mike walked Harvey to the wall, never once breaking their kiss. Once there, Harvey felt Mike’s hardness up against his own. It should have given him pause; should have made him question if this was still right. Mike was a man after all. Instead, it ignited something within Harvey; something he had no name for. All thoughts vanished when Mike grinded against him. Harvey’s body responded in kind, demanding glorious friction, while his hands snaked beneath Mike’s sweater, searching for skin. Mike hissed. Within moments, the grasps and groans, the clutch of fingers and ragged breaths were too much and not enough.

“Mike…,” he whispered.

Those hauntingly beautiful blue eyes peered up once again and met his own.

“Please.”

Mike grabbed Harvey’s hand, lifted it up to his lips and kissed the palm gently.

“Yes?”

“Yes,” Harvey answered.

Mike slid Harvey’s jacket off his shoulders, placing it carefully on the nearby chair. The slow slide of silk being loosened from around his neck hissed in the quiet room. It wasn’t until deft fingers began undoing his shirt buttons, did Harvey remember he could be helping. He reached for the hem of Mike’s sweater, breaking apart so it could be lifted up and over Mike’s head. Mike’s lips found his briefly, before they moved off to his cheek, his chin, then to the exposed skin at Harvey’s collarbone.

“Ohh,” Harvey groaned, turning his head giving Mike more access. Harvey’s nimble fingers traipsed their way to Mike’s peak nipples and squeezed as Mike’s teeth marked Harvey’s skin. It wasn't enough. The thought blazed through Harvey’s hazy brain. With effort, he pushed away from the wall, intent on getting the man in his arms horizontal and naked.

“Bed,” he whispered hotly. “Now.”

Mike groaned a noise that sounded a little like yes.

Their movement proved to be a delicate dance of kissing while articles of clothing hit the floor. Mike turned Harvey, lead him to the next room, not stopping until the back of Harvey’s knees hit the bed. With a slight push, Harvey sat. Mike smirked then dropped to his knees; his hands moving to Harvey’s thighs.

“All the times I wanted to do this,” he murmured. “I would fantasize about you sitting in your chair at your desk; me kneeling beneath it, in between your legs.” He kissed Harvey’s knees, then the outside of both thighs. When he started to work his way inside and up, Harvey grabbed the sheets. Mike nosed at Harvey’s pubic hair, inhaling deeply. Watching Mike on his knees in front of him, became the single most erotic thing Harvey had ever witnessed.

“Fuck, Mike,” Harvey.

“Yes,” he answered, licking a long stripe from base to tip. “I think I would like that.”

Mike looked up from beneath his lashes and swallowed Harvey down deep. Harvey couldn't stop the pornographic moan from falling from his lips at the feel of Mikes mouth, all warm and wet and perfect. When he did it again, Harvey’s hips came up just a bit and Mike placed one hand on his thigh while the other circled Harvey’s base.

“Oh, Mike. Shit. Fuck. Your mouth,” he panted.

Mike smiled and bobbed his head.

Harvey was close, embarrassingly close. He knew if he didn't stop Mike right now, it would be over quickly.

“Come here,” he growled, pulling Mike off into a filthy kiss. They fell together onto the bed with Mike sliding between Harvey’s legs. Harvey reached out to grab both their cocks, using Mike’s spit as lubricant.

“Fuck, Harvey.” Mike ground down against Harvey, rotating his hips. “You feel so good,” he breathed.

“What do you want, Mike? I could…”

"I want you to fuck me,” Mike stopped moving, staring intently at Harvey. “Please fuck me.”

“God, Mike.” He reached up and wrapped his hands around Mike’s neck, pulling him in for a bruising kiss that quickly became heated. When they broke for air, Mike leaned over and grabbed his overnight bag that was sitting near the bed.

Harvey raised an eyebrow when he returned from his fidgeting with an unopened bottle of lube.

“What?” he said sheepishly. “You were the one who taught me to be prepared for any outcome.”

“I don't remember that including having bottles of lube on you at all times.”

“Well, I improvised,” he smiled.

Harvey reached out and stroked Mike’s face, caught up in the gravity of what they were considering.

“Second thoughts?” Mike asked softly.

Harvey pulled Mike back into his arms. “No. None.” The kiss they shared was soft, deep and felt far more intimate than anything they had done. Harvey moved so he was now above Mike and opened the bottle.

“Promise me,” he said, “You will tell me if anything is uncomfortable. I don't want to hurt you.”

“I promise,” Mike answered. He grabbed a nearby pillow and shoved it beneath his hips, giving Harvey better access.

The first breach of Harvey’s finger was met with a sigh from both men. By the time Harvey had worked three fingers deep in Mike’s heat, Harvey was harder than he could ever remember. It didn't help that Mike looked positively debauched, writhing and sweating beneath him. How could he have ever thought that fucking Mike was a bad thing, he thought idly. Mike’s moans interrupted his thoughts

“I’m ready, Harvey, please, just fuck me.”

“You should see yourself, Mike. You're gorgeous. Begging for my cock.”

“Yes. I want it. I need it, Harvey. Please…”

Harvey crooked his fingers, having heard about prostate stimulation though never once had an opportunity to test the theory until now. He believed he found it when Mike jumped.

“Fuck! Yes, there!” he yelled. “I swear Harvey if you don't fuck me now, I’m not going to last.”

Harvey removed his fingers and added lube to his cock which had been impatiently waiting for his turn.

“How do you want me, Specter,” Mike purred.

“I would prefer that you stay just like that. I …” Harvey faltered briefly. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. “I want to be able to watch you.”

Mike smiled. “I would like that, too.” Mike let his knees fall open in invitation and Harvey lined himself up.

“I promise, I will go slow.”

Mike’s face pinched slightly when Harvey pushed passed the outer ring of muscle. Harvey stopped and searched Mikes' face.

“It’s okay, keep going. It's just… been a while.”

You sure?” he asked carefully.

Mike, Harvey knew, didn’t always make the best decisions when it came to his own health or safety. Not that Harvey didn't want to believe him, because all Harvey could think of was ramming all the way home. Instead, he blew out a breath.

“You sure?”

“Very,” he answered.

Harvey pushed in a bit more, stopping regularly until he was completely sheathed, then waited, kissing Mike gently.

Mike tilted his hips and moaned gently. “You do that again and I won't be able to stop,” Harvey panted.

“Then don’t,” Mike answered, pulling Harvey’s face down for another kiss.

Harvey rolled his hips slowly. Mike felt so tight, so hot. His body shook with the effort to move slow; stay in control. Mike wrapped his legs around Harvey’s back and pulled him down not too gently.

“Fuck me like you mean it, Harvey” he whispered hotly.

“Oh, thank God,” Harvey whispered. He pulled almost all the way out, then thrust in balls deep. Mike moaned again, and Harvey was lost. Slow deep thrusts morphed with cries of deeper, harder. Mike had him in a death grip, both breathing hard.

“Harvey…”

“Yes.”

Harvey shifted; lifted Mike’s legs higher allowing him to go that much deeper. The response was immediate.

“Yes Harvey, there, God. Fuck me… just like that,” Mike cried bracing himself against the headboard with his hand.

“Just like that? Is this what you need, Mike. My cock, taking you, ungh,” he groaned when Mike clenched his ass. “Oh, fuck, you feel so good. I want to feel you come, Mike. Tell me how… show me how you like it.”

“Oh God, Harvey, I’m so close. Touch me. Please,” he begged.

Harvey freed up one of his hands grasped Mike’s cock which was slick with a mix of precum and leftover lube. Harvey was too far gone to have a freak out about touching another cock. He was way beyond that. All he could think of was making Mike fall apart beneath him, preferably before his own orgasm overtook him. Mike’s cock was long and thin like the rest of him. He stroked firmly, twisting his thumb across the crown on the upstroke- his own preferred method.

“Oh God,” Mike spewed, canting his hips. “Yes, just like that, just like… Haarrrvey,” he cried, his orgasm taking over.

Harvey worked him through it, gritting his teeth while Mike’s ass clenched and unclenched around him. Mike shuddered through aftershocks while Harvey continued to pound deeply into him, chasing his own orgasm. And when it hit, when his vision completely whited out, all Harvey could do was pull Mike up to him and bury his scream into his neck.

“Oh shit,” Harvey heaved. “That was, that was…,”

“Yeah,” Mike smiled. That was fucking fantastic,” he slurred.

Harvey chuckled, then remembered he was still buried deep inside Mike.

“Sorry,” he muttered.

“I’m not, Mike replied softly.

“Neither am I,” he whispered, answering the question beneath Mike’s statement.

Harvey leaned down and captured Mike’s lips which parted to allow further exploration. Their tongues languid and slow swirled against each other. Harvey gently extricated himself from Mike’s perfect ass and wobbled to the nearby bathroom. After a quick clean up, he came back with a towel for Mike and sat nervously on the bed.

“Thanks.”

Mike pulled back the covers and climbed into the large bed, making space for Harvey.

“Getting in?”

“I wasn’t sure. I mean...”

“I never thought I would see the day the great Harvey Specter was tongue-tied,” he chuckled lightly.

“Am not.”

“Are, too.”

The banter felt normal, and it helped to ease the question of what was supposed to happen next.

“There’s room in this bed for two,” Mike said cheekily.

“Then scoot over,” Harvey smiled climbing in.

Mike settled into Harvey’s arms. They kissed softly, slowly; no longer rushed. Their touches were tender, gentle. When they broke apart, Mike’s brow was furrowed, his lower lip caught in his teeth.

“What is it, Mike?

“I love you. I mean, I know I told you earlier, but I need you to hear me say it again, feel me say in your arms. I have no doubts, no regrets.”

“Mike…I,”

“I don't expect you to say that back,” he interjected. I just wanted to tell you, so you know without a doubt how I feel, and that this isn't, will never be wrong to me.”

Harvey reached down to grasp at Mike’s face. He kissed him hard, he kissed him deep, and he kissed him with all the emotions he couldn't recognize, let alone say. Harvey agreed. Nothing about having Mike in his arms felt wrong.

“Hear me say this. I don't know what I feel, but I do know that you are the most important person I have in my life. And I have no regrets about anything we have done. Or anything we still might do,” he threw in with a smile.

Mike smiled in return. “Would you like to order dinner in?”

“No,” Harvey answered climbing over Mike’s body. “I think I would rather stick to dessert.

“I think I can handle that,” Mike spoke against Harvey’s lips.

When morning came, Harvey was sore in ways he never knew he could be. He had sampled everything and by the twinge, he felt as he sat up reminded him, that did mean everything on the menu. Harvey knew before he opened his eyes that Mike was gone. He had felt the bed shift and the taste of minty fresh lips against his just after sunrise. Harvey stayed in bed, feigned sleep to avoid doing the whole big “goodbye” thing. Plus, he wasn't sure he could have gotten through it had he tried. Something happened in the hours he spent with Mike. Something wonderful and awful and just downright frightening happened as he laid within his arms. The worst part was there was nothing he could do about it; about any of it. Not that he was sure what he would do.

He found the note in his jacket pocket. He recognized Mikes hurried scrawl easily.

Harvey,  

I stand by everything I said last night. I have zero regrets. I hope, neither do you. I know how you feel about cheating. Just like I know you may wake up one day and consider what happened last night indeed that. But I am here to tell you it was anything but. I got to spend the night in the arms of someone I love, I will always love. I will carry the taste of you, the feel of you, the feel of us together, forever. I am walking out of here with a smile on my face and the memory of our night. I hope you do, too.  

Thank you for spending this night with me, for giving us this.  

Mike.  

P.s. I know you weren't sleeping.  

~~~

The next time Harvey saw Mike was at the group dinner. Harvey thought about not going, but after a pep talk disguised as a threat from Donna, he decided to make an appearance. Harvey was seated across from the happy couple. They looked like typical newlyweds. Rachel was glowing, and Mike looked at her like she hung the very stars. They held hands beneath the table, sat close to each other and spoke about the new life they were ready to build together with joy. Harvey never once thought that one night would Mike would change anything, but then again.

In that moment, Mike glanced at Harvey. As if he could tell his name had crossed Harvey’s thoughts. He smiled at him, one that reached his eyes. Harvey found himself smiling in return. This was right, he told himself. Mike deserved to be happy, and if that meant one night with him and the rest of his life with Rachel, then Harvey would make peace with that.

When the party moved to the bar after dinner, Harvey attempted to make his escape. He had had enough. All he wanted was to get home and drown his thoughts in every bottle he had back at home. He was halfway to the coat rack when he heard her.

“Harvey?”

He turned to see Rachel walking slowly towards him.

Her face gave away nothing, which made him worry that much more. Did she know what happened between Mike and him? And if she did, was she really okay with it? He braced for either option.

“I wanted to catch you before you snuck out.”

“Mrs. Ross,” he drawled easily. “What can I do for you?”

“You know, if it wasn't for you, I don't think Mike or I would be here.”

“I'm absolutely sure, you two would have done just fine without me.”

“He’s going to miss you. We both are.”

“I’ll miss you both too, he admitted sadly.

She pulled him into a tight hug.

“Thank you, Harvey, for everything you did,” she whispered.

“I did what any mentor would do.” That and fuck your husband, he thought.

She smiled, and for a moment Harvey wondered if perhaps he had said that last part out loud.

“That’s not what I meant.”

Harvey pulled back and frowned.

Rachel sighed loudly. “I meant thank you for saying yes.”

The ground shifted beneath Harvey’s feet.

“Rachel, I…,” he started nervously.

“I know how hard it was for you. It is for you to let go. Especially, now.”

“It wasn’t that hard,” he joked. “I knew eventually he would go off on his own.”

Rachel cocked her head, doing a pretty good impression of Donna. “That’s not what I am talking about and you know it.”

“Rachel,” he sighed, pinching his nose with his thumb and forefinger. “Mike was never mine to give up.”

“Oh Harvey,” she soothed, placing a hand on his cheek. “He was always yours. You just didn't want to see it.”

She paused staring at him; dissecting him. “But you see it now, don't you? I can tell. I can see it in your eyes.”

Harvey flinched.

“Which makes what you did - allowing him, allowing both of you that night - that much more special. And walking away that much harder,” she finished.

Harvey pinched his lips together, her words bothering him more than he would like to acknowledge.

She leaned up and kissed him on his cheek.

“He loves you, you know,” Harvey said at last.

“I know,” she answered. “I love him, too. But he also loves you, Harvey. I doubt that will ever change.”

Harvey swallowed the golf ball sized lump lodged in his throat. “Take care of him. Take care of each other. Have an amazing life.”

“You, too, Harvey. And remember, you will always a place in our lives.”

He nodded, not trusting his voice. Rachel walked back to the rest of the party and Harvey grabbed his coat. The room felt too small, the crowd too noisy, and the heat was stifling. Harvey rushed out the door and into the night air. He took in a large gulp of air, calmed by the sounds flowing around him. He was so lost in the noise, he almost didn't hear his name being called.

“Harvey!” He looked up at the first touch of a hand grabbing him from behind.

“Not going to say goodbye?” Mike’s voice was light, but Harvey could hear the nervous edge in it.

“Got work to do. You know how it is, Mike.”

“Yeah, I know. I know you hate goodbyes and will do anything to avoid them.”

He smirked, conceding the point. “Look, Mike,” Harvey started, trying to fill the awkward silence that fell between them. “Even though I don't do goodbyes as you put it. I can honestly say, I am so fucking proud of you.”

He extended his hand. “Go out there and do good. Be the man you always dreamed of being.”

Mike stared at it then rushed into Harvey’s frame, encompassing him in a hug. Memories of their night flooded Harvey’s system. He moved and pulled him in closer, trying to soak up as much of Mike as he could.

“I won’t say goodbye,” Harvey murmured into Mike’s hair.

“I know. Neither will I.” Mike pulled back enough so he could look into Harvey’s eyes. He leaned in and brushed his lips against Harvey’s own. “I love you, Harvey.”

“I know,” he chuckled.

They both smiled at the infamous quote. Harvey quickly pecked Mike’s lips and backed away. Mike took a deep breath and turned back towards the restaurant.

“Hey Rookie,” Harvey called out. “I love you, too.” Mike's turned, his eyes going wide.

“I knew it!” he shouted, his goofy smile lighting up his face.

Harvey never could resist that smile. “Go on, get out of here. Your wife is probably looking for you by now.”

With a quick nod, Mike walked back through the door and out of Harvey's life.

Harvey wasn't sure if he was supposed to be happy or sad about his time with Mike. The truth was, it didn't really matter. He turned up his collar on his coat and waved down a cab. Inside, an old Jackson Brown song was playing- Tender is the Night. Harvey found himself tuning in, the lyrics coming out of nowhere to greet him.

Between a life that we expected and the way it's always been...  

That about summed it up. Harvey was a man caught between two worlds. He never once imagined he would end up here- realizing he had fallen in love with Mike just in time to watch him walk away. He knew firsthand the world could be cruel, but this, this was torture. So, was it better to have loved and lost- or never to have loved at all? Hell, if he knew.

[thegeneralsnotebook]

Nov 28 Spoiler Design Roundup

Cheering Section

Novelty: As I’m kind of getting tired of saying by now, the card gets the automatic +1 for having the Harmony tag (maybe we can just assume that going forward?) While pushing aggro and Competitive isn’t necessarily something new for Blue, this is one of the few cards that I can think of which specifically pushes the colour to go wide. Which is not something it’s done a whole lot of in the past.

Impact: Competitive 5 is I think the number where this card switches from middling to quite good. So Impact is a question of how many Blue decks from the days of yore could consistently have three pegasi out. Scootaloo clearly would qualify, Bluna perhaps less so. So there certainly could have been some adopters out there.

Flavour: The flavour on this card is pretty nicely established, especially while pegasi are known for having individualist streaks, they’re also fairly team-oriented most of the team. Why wouldn’t they work together to elevate the stars among themselves?

Accident at the Pear Farm

Novelty: As I’ve made this series, I’ve occasionally wondered if Novelty and Flavour are somewhat opposing ideas. For example, sometimes I’ve awarded Novelty for cards that took a colour away from doing things it’s done before, and sometimes I’ve awarded Flavour for cards that let a colour keep doing things that it’s always done. This card is a good example of why I think the system still works. It does a decidedly less-Orange thing (Troublemaker +Power) in a very Orange way (banishing stuff from discard). Which is great.

Impact: Funnily enough, as I mentioned in my Field Report video when I talked about this card, the real allure of it is that it’s sitting in that brilliant 2+2:5 spot where aggro will like it a lot. Even if the text is irrelevant, I can’t give it less for Impact since aggressive decks want Problems like this so bad.

Flavour: This card is strange, since I’d say that if the design idea of the card had anything to do with Dragons, I’d give it a 5. Troublemakers helping Troublemakers: that’s exactly the Dragon synergy. But there’s no connection to pears whatsoever.

Garble, Let’s Race

Novelty: It was pointed out to me after I lost my marbles over this card that giants in Orange aren’t exactly anything new, and Garble himself might not even be breaking new ground in terms of power. Competitive 4 is still the highest value on any individual Friend though, and this is the first Friend that’s been able to do that for Troublemakers (as opposed to directly giving them power like Purple has done before).

Impact: One the Impact front, the first thing that I said for Novelty comes back for this one. Rescue Party actually is probably the better Friend if you want a real aggro powerhouse at this cost, and Garble alone isn’t enough to bring the Troublemaker deck to life.

Flavour: I positively love this card’s flavour, though. I mentioned this in my reaction video, but Garble as a character really has this big individualist streak and is the kind of guy who really could strike out on his own. Despite being a total jerk, this dragon is ambitious, competent, and oh-so-willing to believe that he’s the best thing there ever was. In short, he’s not a ready-made support character, but if all you’re looking to do is start a ruckus, he’ll be plenty of help.

Somnambula, Pillar of Hope

Novelty: In general, for what it’s worth, I’ve found all of the Pillars so far to be quite well-designed. Somnambula may be re-purposing text from good old Balloonoculars, but that text needed to be better represented anyway, and she does something very special with it. The draw trigger is entirely novel, though (again, somewhat similar to what Balloonoculars did, but much more general).

Impact: I’ve plenty of talk already about fun things that can be done with this card, and many of them rely only on original Core cards in order to do it. Without question, this card could have been implemented into a variety of Pink strategies before FF, and I think most of them would have been eager to have her. Granted the answer to her is the same as the old meta’s answer to everything else (Belly Flops, pumpkins, etc. etc.), but it would still be a different place.

Flavour: I really like this card’s flavour. If you wanted to talk about Hope embodied in a card, then look no further. Given a little bit of knowledge, you get to make a judgement call, and hope that you’re right. Hope tempered with the wisdom to direct it properly is a potent weapon. Plus (and I’ll get to this for the other pillars), I really appreciate the chosen art. A hero of action should to the extent possible be depicted in action.

Star Swirl the Bearded, Pillar of Sorcery

Novelty: Star Swirl is functioning here essentially an embodiment of Super Purple. I do believe that “Super Meticulous” is the correct shorthand for his first ability, and it takes the concept to its logical extreme. In addition, even though he’s borrowing Premier Twilight’s text for his second part, that text is entirely new to Core, so it’s not even really that old.

Impact: Unfortunately for Star Swirl, big expensive Friends really need to do something right away to be able to enjoy much relevance. Compare Redeem Starlight, whose ability was positively monstrous if you could get it off several times. Somnambula’s great because she does something right away, and Flash is similar. Star Swirl pretty much needs to see the start of a turn to get his value out.

Flavour: This one borrows from the Novelty blurb quite a bit. Star Swirl is Purple refined and sharpened to a point. The fact that he takes an original Purple ability (Premier Twilight’s) and adds on an evolution of a thing that Purple only later became known for is only icing on the cake. If Premier Twilight was the Faithful Student, then this is what she would have looked like if she’d been able to get her Ph. D.

Flash Magnus, Pillar of Bravery

Novelty: I really do feel sorry for both Flash and Lightning Dust (whose Novelty rating I will be decreasing as a result of seeing this card). It’s such a shame that those two cards simply had to be so similar to each other in the end. Flash gets the better end of the stick for adding a little onto that formula, but at least in this category I can’t help but feel disappointed.

Impact: In this category, though, I’ve got nothing but praise. Even if my initial reaction may have been somewhat over-the-top (Flash doesn’t necessarily go in everything) I still think most Blue decks would eagerly make a place for him. And he would be a potent tool for them. When you can’t zip Thunderlane around and confront everything, then you may as well use this guy as a cudgel on your opponent’s turn.

Flavour: My only complaint on the flavour on this card brings up the little footnote I wrote for Somnambula above. Sure, Flash is a finely handsome stallion, but with the amount of action this guy’s gotten up to, I would have expected there would be some art to show him in the thick of it. A shot of him just standing there doesn’t quite have the same impact. Besides that, though, the design works just fine.

Princess Cadance, Family Matters

Novelty: Cadance actually hits this one out of the park, doing some pretty crazy things on a Friend. The cost-reduction thing is close to Secret but it’s done in a much more extreme way. The Event tax is close to a Mimics (if you name Events with your Mimics about ⅔’s of the time, then in the long run it’s exactly the same thing). And the card draw is absolute insanity.

Impact: Unlike the other big, slow giant tri-colour cards, Cadance gets some love in this category even if she’s a super magnet for removal. Namely, she is still guaranteed value, except for the corner case where she’s removed by some effect that doesn’t require the opponent to play a card. Other than that, you’re going to get at least some value from her, which is enough to make her viable in more than just the reanimation playstyle.

Flavour: Okay, just like I did for Tri-Twi here: 1) While this cost reduction thing is clearly the Blue effect, it reminds me more of Pink because of Secret, and Gilda, and similar things. So I’m not feeling this one. 2) Taxes are for the rich and famous (because in Equestria the tax code makes sense). So White! 3) Pink has returned to its roots, and will draw you all the cards. Sorry, did you only some of the cards? I’m afraid you’re getting all of the cards.

Detention!

Novelty: As a slower unconditional Napcakes, this card reminds me a lot of some of the Events we had back in The Crystal Games. I don’t remember the exact names, but I’m sure there was something at least similar to this. It’s getting it’s mandatory +1 for the Harmony, but that’s it.

Impact: As I said in my reaction video, I think this card is kind of on the fringe even in the world where Unicorn decks exist. If it’s trying to make its own way, it’s not going to find one.

Flavour: Now, the Flavour here is pretty good, though. Top-decking is the most serious removal that Purple can offer, and setting it in the academic context is nice. Plus it’s important to point out that the Unicorn Harmony is done right. Having an abundance of Unicorns isn’t going to make your spells more powerful, but it might make them easier to do.

Smolder, Culture Shock

Novelty: Naturally, I can’t give Smolder much of a drop for Novelty. That text certainly looks nothing like anything that I’ve ever seen before. It’s clever, but it’s still decidedly Orange. It’s nice.

Impact: Smolder gets a helping hand in this category because Orange is really crying out for a reasonable Mane right now. Yes, Muffin Mare exists, but she has a pretty dedicated niche. With AJ gone, Orange desperately needs a good general purpose Mane. And even though Smolder has the obvious Dragon synergy, she’s perfectly fine in other Orange decks that do faceoffs from time to time.

Flavour: Like with Gallus, let me try to interpret this text into something that can be well-understood. Again, we’re in a tough spot (the faceoff). Smolder is going to take the opponent head on (exhausting herself) in the hope of interfering with them (forced discard) enough to give one of her allies (other card) an opening to strike (+Power). Now that is very Dragon-like (it’s bascially what the tribe is about), but it sounds like a super stretch to throw that on Smolder as a character. I’m not convinced.

Yona, Student of Friendship

Novelty: I was getting ready to bust Yona all of the way down to 1 just like I did with Sandbar before. While it’s true that no card that no card has had her specific text before, there have been many variations on the theme. However, I did notice one key thing that I felt merited something: the fact that her effect isn’t local, whereas all of the Friend-based “Turn a Troublemaker down” effects are. That actually counts for something, since it helps her out with the Trixie TM.

Impact: That said, we’re still going to be moving along here. Yellow has plenty of Troublemaker hate already, and won’t blink an eye getting more.

Flavour: Interfering with Troublemakers has in the past been interpreted as impressive power (including in one of my favourite Flavour cards, Princess Celestia, Bane of Evil). However, sometimes it’s also been mere trickery or unexpected good fortune. I find it hard to really fault Yona in any way on this, so she can have a middling score, since she’s okay in Yellow.

Stop Fighting!

Novelty: This is another card that I really like, in this case mainly because of the novel thing that it’s doing with its tribe. When the tribe thing was first starting out, we saw the way that Unicorns and Pegasi and Dragons etc. were looking, and everyone said “Well gee, there aren’t really enough griffons to pull a deck like that together; let’s hope we see a lot more griffons.” But this card is saying that the griffon tribe isn’t going to work like that. There probably isn’t going to be a griffon deck; there may instead be a griffon package that augments other things. And it’s cool to see some tribes that aren’t implemented as full “Your whole deck must be Unicorns” things.

Impact: Somewhat paradoxically given the above, I still think that we’re a little short on griffons at the moment for this card to have a real spot in the world. It’s not terrible as a pure 1 AT frighten, though, so at least I have to give it that.

Flavour: Griffons can be loud and intimidating, and I really love again how the tribe’s synergy is portrayed in the design of cards like this. Griffons generally aren’t team players, so you’re not going to see effects like Unicorn Trixie or Dragon Charcoal. Instead, you’re going to see effects that make each griffon individually better. Top notch, though why this has to be in the discard pile first is a tougher lift for me.

Queen Chrysalis, Evil Twin

Novelty: In effect, what Chrysalis is really implementing is a stronger version of the already-done stealing mechanic. Since this card effectively steals a Friend, but no recourse exists to get the Friend back. If that was the only thing special about the card, it wouldn’t score that highly. But implementing it on a 5-cost, 0-Power Friend that ushers in a whole slew of rules on what “copying a Friend” actually means. Sign me up for that.

Impact: Unfortunately in terms of game impact, we really can reduce Chryssy down to just a stronger stealing effect. Since stealing was already generally considered too expensive at 4, I wouldn’t say that making it 5 and getting the extra surety is going to help all that much. Though she can be cheated out, which is something at least.

Flavour: Let us all take a moment to collectively chuckle at this beautiful flavour text. And if you hear any hissing, watch carefully the one who hisses, for that one may be the traitor in disguise. In all seriousness, though, this card perfectly encapsulates the changeling ideal of aggressively replacing someone else. It’s something Chrysalis honestly ought to do more of on the show; it’s kind of what she’s good at.

Ocellus, Knowledge is Power

Novelty: Well, clearly there isn’t much to say on this. This Mane is totally new; we’ve never seen anything even remotely like this before. And it’s clever, and it’s cool. Ocellus has already inspired lots of new thinking about how to play decks with her (including from yours truly). That’s precisely what novel cards are supposed to do.

Impact: Similar to Smolder, Ocellus gets some of her Impact score purely from the fact that White was in need of a better general-purpose Mane than it currently had. Which isn’t to imply that this one is necessarily “general-purpose”. She definitely does require some thought and work to use properly, but not as much as Octavia. And she’s clearly powerful, though not quite in a way that I’d immediately say she’s going to rock the meta.

Flavour: Okay, I may as well keep this process going. So Ocellus is naturally a timid individual; she needs some support (the efficient Friend) to properly shine. With AT somewhat associated with knowledge via Purple, the Immediate ability is the implementation of the whole Knowledge is Power thing: with applied thought, Ocellus can be a proper force. However, she has to take a hit because she doesn’t belong in White. I fully understand why this Mane had to be White (the changeling colours are Yellow and White) but that doesn’t make it a Flavour win.

Maulwurf, Extra Large

Novelty: It’s true that the text on this card has an identifiable source, coming straight from good old Jet Set & Upper Crust, albeit with a slight variation both in Power and in text. Bringing that effect to Core is desirable enough (especially since it was actually a valuable thing in Harmony once or twice), even if it’s basically the same card.

Impact: While clearly a farming counter, Maulwurf on its own does nothing against a farming deck. Indeed, old JSUC required an Alicorn Amulet to really come into its own, and this card will likely fill the same role in any deck that wants it. Farming is around though, so in that sense it stands a fighting chance.

Flavour: Trying to figure out what exactly the point value of a Troublemaker translates to in terms of flavour was an interesting exercise for me. In the end, I think it comes down to the degree of cunning on the part of the character. Minions and wild beasts don’t get the points, it’s the leaders and the planners that get that benefit. And thus this works, in addition to the moderate values on the rest of the card with the game text filling in for its resistant biology.

Untested Magic Fireworks

Novelty: This card really comes out of leftfield and leaves only an impact crater when it leaves, doesn’t it? On the one hand, this is a classic Johnny card and something that the game needs more of. On the other, it instantly calls to mind Chaos Capital of the World, though clearly with some major differences that probably make it much more applicable to the weird interactions that it’s going to cause people to dream up.

Impact: I have no idea whatsoever what the Impact of this card should be. Again, its presence has already incited fevered theorizing, and a couple of combos that sound like they might be edging closer to the main stage. But it definitely feels like more of a joke to me.

Flavour: At this stage, I feel like the card should just turn things up to eleven and replace the Problems each time while it’s at it, so the whole board is just getting nuked. Either way, though, it’s still pretty awesome. This is a meteor coming out of nowhere and doing some damage. To everyone. Outstanding.

Sorry Stamp

Novelty: Mechanically, this card is actually pretty interesting. It stands in a similar spot to Pharynx, where it’s quite bad when used on its own, but rapidly gets quite respectable when used in the proper deck. In the way that I see Earth Ponies playing, this card is very much just going to be dismiss two things, and that’s new too. It will be interesting to see how the costs play out.

Impact: This is one of the cards where I feel like Impact, as I have been judging it, feels wrong. Like sure, this card gets a low Impact score because it’s not going to start an Earth Pony deck all on its own, so clearly in SB nobody would use it. (Especially since there was no shortage of removal in those days already). But that’s really not the point of the card. But again, that’s why we don’t average or combine the ratings when we do overall. The card is novel, and cards shouldn’t have to always be all three.

Flavour: Like a fair number of these Harmony cards, the problem is with the scaling. We have more Earth Ponies so it’s easier to stamp more stuff? Hardly.

These things somehow always turn out being incredibly gigantic pieces of work. That I didn’t quite expect when I started out. But I guess it’s almost done, right? Just have that review stream to look forward too...

[domain-of-friendship-blog]

Episode 2-3

A rumble of thunder shook the Golden Oak Library.

"GAAAAH"

Tank Buster made a mad dash for the pillow pile, burying himself beneath it at blinding speed. Within seconds, all that was visible of him were a green snout and a pair of terrified eyes.

"What the hay?" Rainbow Dash's eyes darted back and forth between Tank's hiding place and the spot where he'd been standing just a moment prior.

"Oh no..." Frowning, Twilight slowly approached the pillow pile and sat beside it. "I heard about this from Big Macintosh after that last storm we had. Poor Tank has - "

"Wait a sec," Rainbow interjected. "You heard something from Big Mac that wasn't 'eeyup' or 'nnnope'?"

Twilight rolled her eyes. "Yes, Rainbow Dash. Big Macintosh does, in fact, talk. Just... not very often." She glanced away briefly at this admission. "Now may I finish?"

Rainbow shrugged. "Eh, sure."

Twilight's expression softened once more as her gaze fell upon the petrified pony in the pillow pile. "Tank Buster has astraphobia."

"Gesundheit," Rainbow Dash offered.

Twilight sighed audibly and raised a hoof to her forehead. "Astraphobia is an abnormal fear of thunder and lightning. In other words, he's terrified of thunderstorms."

Rainbow Dash was silent for a moment as she landed slowly and joined Twilight by the pillow pile. After a moment of biting her lip nervously, she spoke. "Aw man, I didn't know. I'm really sorry I couldn't warn you guys sooner..."

Twilight shook her head. "Don't blame yourself, Rainbow. If you weren't fast enough to warn everypony in time, then nopony would've been."

Spike peered over Twilight's shoulder. "So what do we do now?"

Twilight gave one of the pillows a gentle pat with her hoof as Tank trembled beneath it. "The best thing to do is to stay here with him until the weather clears up. We shouldn't be going outside anyway now that the storm's here."

"Yeah, no kidding," Rainbow agreed. "For anypony to go out now, they'd have to be - "

SLAM

"APPLE BLOOM!"

Rainbow Dash's statement was interrupted by the sound of the library door bursting open as a thoroughly sodden Applejack charged through it, looking frantically about the room. "Have any of y'all seen Apple Bloom?"

Briefly taken aback by the orange pony's abrupt arrival, Twilight glanced between Rainbow Dash and Tank Buster for a moment before responding. "Er... no, we haven't. Is everything alright?"

Applejack shook her head, flinging a cascade of droplets from her hat in all directions as she did so. "She was supposed to be back from Zecora's by now. I can't bear the thought that she's stuck somewhere out there in the storm..."

Twilight trotted forward and put a gentle hoof over Applejack's shoulder. "I'm sure she's fine, Applejack. If she was on her way back to the farm when the storm arrived, it's very likely she just stopped somewhere to take shelter from the rain. If we ask around town, I'm sure we'll find her before long."

Applejack looked up at Twilight and nodded, adjusting her hat. "Yeah... you're right. Thanks, Twi."

Twilight offered a reassuring smile before turning to look over her shoulder. "Come on, Rainbow. We'll need your help too."

Rainbow scratched her head and gestured at the pillow pile. "Um... okay, but what about Tank? You just said somepony's gotta stay with him."

Twilight blinked, hesitating as she pondered the problem. After a moment, she returned to the pillow pile and crouched low to the floor until she was at eye level with the pony buried within. "Hey... Tank?"

Tank turned his head a fraction of an inch to meet her gaze.

Twilight smiled softly at him, just as she had with Applejack. "Will you be alright if we leave you with Spike while we go looking for Apple Bloom? I promise we'll be back before you know it."

After a moment's pause, Tank's response came in the form of an almost imperceptibly small nod.

Twilight's smile broadened as she stood back up. "Stay strong. I know you can do it." With that, she turned back toward the others. "Okay then. Spike, I need you to come over here and sit with Tank. Applejack and Rainbow Dash, let's get moving. We need to stay in sight of each other at all times for safety's sake; the storm's not getting any lighter by the looks of things. Ready, girls?"

Applejack's expression hardened. "You bet your bottom bit I am."

Rainbow Dash threw her forehoof into the air. "Let's do this!"

"Let's go!" With a glow of her horn, Twilight threw the door open and the three ponies charged out into the darkening storm. Spike watched as that same magic closed the door behind them before jogging his way over to the pillow pile and unceremoniously plopping down onto one.

Never really sure what to do with himself without Twilight around, the little dragon spent a moment staring at the claws on one hand before a sudden thought struck him. "Wait a second..." The pillow beneath him slid easily on the smooth wooden floor as he spun around to face Tank. "Does anypony else know about the sinkholes on the forest path?"

It seemed to take a moment for this question to sink in, but when it did, the force of Tank sitting bolt upright sent some pillows flying several feet away. "No... no, I don't think they do!" The realization seemed to be momentarily distracting him from the storm as he rose from his hiding place and began pacing slowly. "I didn't find the first one until just after Apple Bloom passed by, and I didn't get the chance to mention it to anyone just now because we were distracted by that weird book."

Spike raised his hands to his face in alarm. "So does that mean Apple Bloom didn't make it back because she fell in one and got stuck and now she's trapped in a hole in the middle of a storm?"

"If it is, then the others will never find her in time," Tank declared. "That settles it, then. It's up to - "

A loud thunderclap headed this statement off at the pass, resulting in Tank immediately diving underneath the nearby table and covering his head with his forelegs. "Nope nope nope it's up to somebody else 'cause I'm not going anywhere no thank you"

Spike tugged insistently at Tank's tail, slowly dragging him out from under the table. "Tank, come on! Apple Bloom needs our help!"

"Our... W-Wait, that's it!" In spite of the trembling, Tank beamed as the idea came to him. "Y-You can go f-find the girls and t-tell them where she is!"

Spike put his hands on his hips and rolled his eyes. "Oh yeah, sure! I'm totally going to catch up to three full-grown ponies who are running full tilt through a thunderstorm when all I've got are these stubby little baby dragon legs." He stuck one out and pointed at it for emphasis.

Tank hesitated for a moment before offering an encouraging grin. "Uhh... I believe in you?"

This elicited little more than an impatient glare from Spike.

Tank's smile faded as he gave a quiet sigh of defeat. "I... really have to do this, don't I?"

Spike nodded. "I know you're scared, but Apple Bloom might be in serious danger. We have to try." With that, he climbed onto the prone pony's back and gave him a gentle pat. "Don't worry. You'll be fine as long as I'm here!"

Slowly, steadily, Tank rose on four shaky legs and made his way to the front door, opening it with one trembling hoof. The town was nearly pitch black as the rain came down in sheets; where the street lights weren't lit, he could barely see more than a few yards through it. As far as Tank was concerned, he may as well have been staring at a brick wall for how willing he was to walk through that doorway.

"Stay strong. I know you can do it."

While this ostensibly hadn't been what she'd meant, Twilight's words echoed in Tank's mind nonetheless. His gaze lingered on the falling rain as his mind processed the task ahead of him, prompting the trembling to pick up once again. "...Okay. I can do this, I can do this. Apple Bloom needs our help. I can do this..." He closed his eyes, the better to focus on slowing his breathing and retaining what control he could manage over his nerves. "Okay. I'm... I'm gonna count to five, and then we're gonna go. We're gonna... we're gonna do this thing. Okay." Another deep breath punctuated this sentence. "One... two - "

RUMBLE

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA"

Tank's eyes shot open as the loudest thunderclap yet rolled its way through town as though swallowing it whole. With a scream that might have curdled milk, he took off like a bullet out the door and into the storm, aiming as best he could in the gathering dark for the Everfree Forest.

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