#We're in the thick of it again lads

[mollyolikeme]

These boys....... ❣️

The Green Creek gang!! 🐺 (also omg i’ve been pushing tumblr to the wayside lately 😩 my bad)

TWITTER || INSTAGRAM || PATREON

[jinwoosbabyboo]

Blue Magic

How I imagine the lads men (pre-relationship) react to you verbally enjoying them gently greasing your scalp. A/N: This one is specifically for my black girls and anyone with thick hair who understands what it's like to have to grease your scalp. Also for those who understand what it was like growing up with your momma and aunties brushing your neck, ears, forehead, and inner most thoughts. Getting popped with the comb for moving too much and the dread of knowing they’re about to pull out that hot comb. [Requested by: Anon]

Summary: He was always curious when you would turn down plans because you needed to wash your hair. He never understood why you had Wash Days instead of just a quick wash while you're showering. Since you had a crush on him you took the time to explain how your hair is different from his and how there's no such thing as a quick wash while showering for you. You decided to let him see what all goes into your Wash Days. Now here you were sitting crisscross on the floor in front of your full length mirror surrounded by all your hair tools. You just finished blow drying your hair in four sections and it was a relief to drop your arms and relax them for a while. You hung your head knowing that you had one last step to do before you could lay down.

“Do you need some help?”

Zayne

Zayne would be so meticulous with his hands as if he were actually doing surgery on your hair. He would be so gentle gliding the rat tail comb through your roots and gently spreading the grease on your scalp and slightly massaging as he went. “I’ve never had someone be this gentle with my scalp” You couldn’t help, but sigh however your sighs seemed to come out as soft whimpers. “Right there, scratch right there” he did exactly as you said and felt his ears getting hot in the process. Hearing you moan and whimper out soft ��That feels so good” and “wait wait massage right there” followed by the most sultry sound he’s ever heard come out of you.

Nearly halfway through he's standing at attention. His nerves are on edge and he doesn't want you to see him like this. "I’m sorry, but I have to head home I have an early out-patient to attend to in the morning" You turn suddenly making him jump. "We're only half done" Your words came out more whiney than you intended.

You’re a little confused at his sudden need to leave, but you nod and stand to walk him to the door. "I'll make it up to you. Good Night." You don’t miss the very obvious bulge in his pants as he quickly grabs his coat and slips out your front door.

Rafayel

Rafayel is unintentionally rough as hell when he starts parting your hair. “Ow! why are you tugging so hard?!” You smack his hands away opting to do it yourself, but he begs to try again and you give in to those big puppy dog eyes he has. “Be gentle!”

Second time around he’s so gentle it almost feels like a lovers touch as he massages the section of your hair before going through with the rat tail comb like you showed him. You can’t help the noises that escape out of you as he smears just the right amount of grease on your scalp. “Are you always this vocal during this process?” He asks in almost a whisper. You try to turn to look at him, but he quickly snaps your head back towards the mirror, hiding his face behind your head. “It feels good when someone else does it” Another sigh leaves you as he keeps going “Please don’t stop” Once he reaches the last section you end up leaning slightly back into him and thats when you feel something poking your lower back.

Y/N: Raf are you…..are you turned on? Rafayel: You’re the one moaning my name while im doing this! Y/N: So it’s my fault? Rafayel: YES Y/N: pokes it Rafayel: do that again and im calling the authorities

He quickly excused himself out of the room while you cleaned up your mess of hair products.

Xavier

Xavier is hanging on by a single worn thread while he’s greasing your scalp. He can barely make it through the first section before he’s already nearly panting listening to you moan “Thank you Xavier” Hearing his name on your lips like that had him near feral. “You’re welcome” He whispered in a raspy tone. You feel him constantly adjusting his position and clearing his throat while he slowly works his way through the next section of hair. “Right there rub right there” You whimper and he inhales deeply as he does as you say. “Right here?” His voice is low and gravelly it actually sends tingles through your body.

Xavier literally can’t take it. His composure was slipping the minute you sighed his name. He managed you finish the job only to turn and tilt your head back to look in your eyes. The tension was always thick between you two. His gaze bounced from your eyes to your lips and you melted when he whispered “Can I kiss you?”

Sylus

Sylus is outing you right then and there he don’t care. The minute you whimper from his fingers gliding across your scalp he’s smirking. He’s so gentle while he does it you almost forget this is a Mafia Don that you have greasing your scalp in the middle of the night. “People would get the wrong idea if they could hear you now” He teased in that sultry voice of his. You felt a wave of embarrassment wash over you that quickly dissipated the second he started massaging your scalp again. “It just feels so good” You whimper again while he slowly works his way through your hair. “I can tell”

He would be able to hold his composure throughout the entire process and by the time he’s done you can finally think clearly. You quickly slip your bonnet on and turn to face him thats when you notice his red cheeks and ears. “You’re never going to do this for me again will you?” You see the corner of his mouth quirk upwards.

He’s enjoying this.

“I don’t mind making you moan again” You shove his shoulder and he just chuckles as you pound your fist into his chest. “You owe me a scalp massage now sweetie”

[plussizefantasia]

Troubled Hearts

Read parts One and Two here: Fluttering Hearts Unsure Hearts

Warnings: guy being creepy, threats of violence, drinking (not reader) we're getting into the angst here guys sorry

a/n: hi, hello, I'm alive sorry for falling off the face of the planet. When I went to go grab the link for part two I realized that I hadn't updated this story since JANUARY!?!?! here is my formal apology: sorry. My goal is to have parts four and five up sometime this month so I can be ready to jump into CozyTober when it starts. Anyway, much love I hope y'all are still interested in the story if not I understand.

Kili Durin x Human!Soulmate!reader

Word Count: 2.7k

Kili must hate himself, there is no other reason for why he’s putting himself through this. Months have passed since you had kind of sort of opened up to him and he couldn’t get you to do it again. He’d been spending his nights the same way, a constant presence at the bar. No matter the weather, the dwarf prince would be posted up on a stool. He slowly sipped the same pint throughout the entire evening and his eyes followed you like a hawk. 

You would have thought that his attentions would have waned by now, you’ve been busy with the bar, Brant unable to keep up in his old age. You figure that he was letting you take control. You never really planned to set down roots in Dale, it was supposed to simply be a stop on your journey. 

You had stumbled into the town late one evening and needed a place to stay, despite the tavern not being an inn and not technically having an extra room, Brant was kind enough to let you stay for the night, as long as you worked it off the next day. One night turned into a week, turned into a month and you realized just how much you enjoyed working at the tavern.

You enjoyed feeling needed, even if it was just to refill someone’s glass. You enjoyed putting in effort and watching yourself get better at all the different skills necessary for a place like this, and you enjoyed the subtle anonymity of it all. Nobody really knew why you were there and nobody had really asked either. Your past didn’t follow you and if you were lucky it never would. You had worked hard and carved out a little life for yourself here, a life that you loved.

Well, a life that you loved most of the time. Up until those nights when every man was just a little too drunk, every woman glared just a little too much and your skin felt just a little too wrong on your body. You did your best to let it all fall off your back, to push through and let yourself be lost in your work but you didn’t always succeed.

You were not sure what hour of the night it was, it seemed that within these four walls, time flew and stood still all at once. What you did know however was that you were getting sick of Roland’s jeers and jibes. You were sure that it was his way of flirting, but you had never really ascribed to the type of flirting where you tore the other person down in the hopes that they begged you to build them back up. Roland was a dick. It was as simple as that and if he thought he had a chance with you he was sorely mistaken.

He had yet to get that through his thick skull though. You balanced a tray of pints above your head with one hand and a tray of food in the other. You expertly wove in between patrons, making your way to the back where Roland and his men often gathered.

“Ah, here she is. Lovely lady with a body to match.” He didn’t wait for you to place the tray down on the tabletop next to him. He just reached his arm around your waist and pulled you closer to him. His hand digging into the flesh there and making you move towards him to try and get away.

“What do you think lads? Don’t we make a pretty picture?” There were slight nods from the men around you, most of them had eyes only for the ale you were still holding. You noticed that this was often the case. Roland spoke and told stories, he was loud but nobody ever really listened to him.

“I think… that I have more work to do so if you would kindly remove your arm from my waist…” You looked at him, arching an eyebrow. “Before I have to remove it for you.” 

He chuckled deeply in his throat but followed your instruction and released you.

“Alright Gents, here are your pints and your pies, anything else for tonight?” Nobody spoke up, except for a few mutters of thanks. “Well, you know where to find me if that changes.”

You made your way back up to the front of house, sliding behind your bar and releasing a deep breath.

“I don’t understand how you do it.” You look up and into the eyes of the dwarf who just spoke.

“Do what Kili?”

“How you let him treat you like… that like you belong to him.”

You bristle at this. “I belong to nobody but myself Your Highness.”

“I know this, and you know this, but the brute doesn't seem to get it.”

“The brute is manageable Kili, he and his friends give this place far too much business for me to be anything less than civil with them.”

“Civil is fine, I just don’t wish to see you get hurt.”

“I appreciate that Kee, but I can handle myself.” 

“I never thought you couldn’t, I just want you to know that you don’t have to handle everything on your own.”

“I’ve been on my own for a long time, it's not easy to give that up.” You see a customer flag you down a few tables away. “Know this, my dwarf prince, should I need protecting… you’re the one I’d ask.” You smile at Kili and pass him offering him a small smile as you get back to work.

The night continues much the same, people come and go. The group in the back gets steadily more rowdy and you glance at the clock every once in a while hoping that the hands will have moved further than they have.

You serve food and drink to several patrons throughout the night, most kind some not as much. You were being truthful with Kili when you had told him you’d come to him. You just didn't think you’d ever need to. Your past wasn't the nicest and you’d quickly learned to take care of yourself because the people who are supposed to take care of you won’t always be there when you need them to be.

The time flew by faster than you’d thought, you’d apparently been lost inside your head for most of the night. The only light was that of the candles on each table and the fireplace next to the kitchen which was miraculously still lit. You’re not sure how, it's your job to keep it going and you know that you hadn’t stoked it all night. 

The darkness outside creeps into the space and more and more people begin their journey home. All your regulars settle with you or get glared at for their insistence that they’ll pay up next time. Eventually the space empties… mostly. Roland and his friends have settled a little but they still sit vigil in the back of the space, you lost count of how many rounds they’ve had but none of them are belligerent so it couldn’t have been more than eight. 

“Y/N, Another!” One of his comrades yells toward you. You forget his name, Roland’s never-ending cycle of yes men made it difficult to learn names, so at some point, you’d stopped trying.

“I don’t know if you Gent’s noticed, but we’re closed. Go home, I’m sure your wives are wondering where you are.”

“What the old lady doesn’t know won’t hurt her.” The same man yelled out, his remark setting off a burst of laughter from his buddies.

“Come Y/N, one more round and we’ll leave when we’re done.” Roland turned his body to face you and what you imagine to be his attempt at a suave smirk graced his face. 

“Sorry boys, but closed means closed, settle your tabs and go home.” You roll your eyes at the grumbling and whining that come from the group of grown men but do not sway in your decision. One by one they come and hand you some coin, some thank you and some say nothing but all of them leave as they were told.

Roland is the last to come up, as he so often is. “I don’t know why you spend so much time here, if you were mine you’d not have to work one more day in this place.”

“Well, I’m not yours and I like working here.” You place your hand on your hips and cock one out to the side. 

“Yet.” Roland leans over the bar and licks his lips. You lean back in order to put distance between your face and his. 

“Not ever.” You firmly reply. “I am your barmaid nothing more, the sooner you get that the sooner you can move on wooing the other ladies this wonderful town has to offer.”

“Ah, but none of these other ladies stir me as much as you do.” His grin becomes sharper and he moves even closer to you. 

The space behind the bar isn’t very large, big enough for one person really, and with how far he’s leaning you can feel your back brushing against the shelves behind you. 

“The only thing I want from you Roland is payment for your tab and for you to leave.” Your voice carried the weariness that was creeping into your heart, men like Roland rarely took no for an answer. You didn’t want to have to hurt him, it would be hard to explain. 

“Such harsh words darling, I promise I’m not nearly as bad as you think I am.” He reached forward and grasped your wrist. You pulled away instinctively and his grip hardened. “I think you might even like it.” Your face screwed up and you bared your teeth ready to rip out of his hold.

“Get your hand off her.”

Your head whipped to the voice. Kili. Why was he still here? How long had he been here? How much had he seen?

“Piss off runt, this is between me and the lady.” Roland didn’t move his eyes away from you.

“Remove your hand from my One or lose it, you oaf.” Kili growled from the corner of the room. The sharp sound of metal reverberated from the space and if you thought the rage on Kili’s face was intense, it was even more striking with a sword in his grip.

Both you and Roland were looking at the dwarf now. Your lips had parted and your eyes widened. Not only because you were sure blood would be spilled tonight but because of what Kili said. A thousand thoughts ran through your head all in the same second. You had to shake yourself back to the present.

Roland’s grip on your wrist slacked a bit and you took the opportunity to bring your arm to your chest. Your eyes bounced between the two men. You looked around behind the counter, searching desperately for something you could use. You let out a breath when you caught sight of the wooden handle resting on top of a wet rag.

“Pay the lady and leave, like she asked.” Kili took a step closer to the brute his posture reminding you of a coiled snake, muscles tight underneath his skin and ready to strike. 

“I do not take orders from dwarves.” Roland’s voice had deepened, his frustration bleeding through into every syllable. His hand reached out towards the axe holstered on his belt.

“You will either leave here with your dignity, or you will not leave at all. That I can be sure of.”

“Mighty words for an imp.” Roland pulled his axe from his belt and took a step towards Kili. As much as you might like to see the two fight, and you really did.  You needed to stop this before it started. 

You grasped the knife that had been lying on the towel and firmly drove it into the counter in front of you. The noise stopped both men in their tracks and they turned their heads to you, not yet dropping their battle stances.

“Enough. I will not be cleaning any blood off these walls tonight. Roland, you're drunk and daft-  a combination no woman in her right mind would want. Leave and don’t show your face here again. There are plenty of other places to drink, choose one.” You look into his eyes as you rip the knife from the wood, pointing it towards him and gesturing towards the door. 

He grumbles but holsters his axe and begins to leave.

“Oaf, you forget something?” Kili called out to him. You cut your eyes to the dark-haired prince narrowing your gaze on him. “Or are you the type of man to run out on his debt?” 

Roland turns slowly and his hand flexes by his side. He takes a large breath before grabbing a small leather bundle from his coat pocket and throwing it up on the counter. Kili smirks and nods his head. 

Roland lets out a low growl but continues on his path, pushing past the doors and onto the street. You don’t move until he turns the corner. At which point you deflate. Your head falls forward like a puppet without strings and you take a deep breath to soothe your racing heart.

“What was that?” Your question, head still bowed.

“What?” Kili takes a step toward you and you shoot up.

“What was that Kili!?” Your chest heaves with every breath you take. “I had it handled, I don’t need you coming in here and threatening people!”

“He put his hands on you!” Kili shouts.

“So you pull your sword?! I do not need a bodyguard Kili let alone one with a temper as bad as yours.” You throw your hand up and drag one across your forehead. “Know this, Your Highness, I have no intention of being claimed by you.” Kili’s eyes grow wide and he opens his mouth to speak, “Do not think I don’t know what a One is, I have traveled these lands for a very long time.” You interrupt him. “I have been claimed by far too many men far too many times, I told you, I belong to nobody but myself now. Do you understand?” You look into his eyes, waiting for a response.

“I have no intention of claiming you, I simply wish to share my life with you.” 

“That is very sweet Kili, but you don’t me. You cannot possibly wish to spend your life with me.”

“Then let me get to know you.” He pleads, “I have never felt like this before.” He takes several steps towards you, pulling your hand into his own and looking up into your eyes. “They say that being with your One is the greatest joy a dwarrow can know. I have had a taste now, being in your space, speaking with you, hearing your laugh, and seeing you smile. It has made me feel more alive than any battle and made my heart more full than it has ever been. I will not force you into anything, I care for you too much for that but I will plead with you. Please amralime, give me a chance to make you as happy as you make me. Let me stay by your side and know you not just as a friend but as a partner, through all things.”

His words steal the breath from your lungs and the beat from your heart. They make you feel like you're flying and sinking all at the same time. There is a part of you, deep down that is screaming for you to give in, to let him love you. 

“Kili I-” You pause, “I am tired. Tired of a great many things. I-I I think you should go.” You turn from him and blink back the tears that flood your eyes. You hear him sigh followed by the creek of the floorboard he stands on as he shifts his weight. He does not speak though, simply drops his arm from where it had been holding your hand and makes his way to the door. 

You hear it open and your shoulders tense, the chill air floods into the room and nips at your skin. Then the door shuts and you're alone. Not for the first time, you question if this really is all for the best.

taglist: @bunnybabe-babydoll @kokochanel111 @shiinata-library @oneiratxxia10 @targaryenteam @sunnysidesidra @shadowrose13-blog1-blog1

[evilminji]

Back at it again with the BNHA crossover Ponderings!

Nedzu is LITERALLY one of THE smartest beings on the planet, right? Like... he's probably on some internationally recognized list of Top Planetary IQs? Which is why Japan let's him get away with so much?

Cause they REALLY fucked him over, he has the power to leave, and that would be really, REALLY bad Brain Drain wise/politically for the Japanese Government? (Also pls don't become a Supervillian we literally can not afford that, Mr. Nedzu Sir? Etc etc)

You think he has... like? Chats? With the OTHER top intellects? Some kid in Siberia with the New Super Intelligence Quirk his parents can't begin to even handle, gets put in history's WEIRDEST group chat? I like to think so.

But the REASON I ask this?

What hero do you call? For Weird Shit in international waters?

Suspicious, floating, weirdly two dimensional and HIGHLY radioactive... corrosive... green goop? Rings? Orbs? CAN it be an orb if it's two dimensional? It certainly LOOKS like there is depth to it... somehow...

A THING. In the sky.

Shouldn't be there, man. This is a shipping lane. It's scaring the people on passing ships. No one knows what Quirk could have made this. Might be a trafficking victim's call for help. Might be a first Quirk Use mishap. They need to know what it IS and how to get rid of it.

They go the normal routes first. Doesn't work. Okay, call in some professionals. Kinda pricey, but no big. Right? Doesn't work. Okaaaay, call in a SPECIALIST. REAL pricey, but this thing is holding up international trade, making people in fancy ass suit all Nervous(TM).

Doesn't Work.

Specialist tells um to not to bother with calling anyone else on their normal list. Is looking at the green goo like it spat on his mother and called his dog a whore. They would prefer he NOT make that facial expression. That is a facial expression that will get them yelled at by their bosses. Fuck(TM).

Now Politics(TM) are involved. People want to STUDY the green goo. Harness it for dubious and unknown green goo experiments. Poke it with their Quirk to see what'll happen. There's fuckin REPORTER with no concept of self-preservation, trying to get CLOSER to the RADIOACTIVE POISON GOO.

Fuckin Heros have shown up.

Why are you bastards even HERE. What? Are you peacocks gonna PUNCH it? Get off their rig! Stop posing in front of the GOO!

Then? Oh thank GOD. The SMART people show up. Certified, highest grade, triple refined, PREMIUM Nerds(TM). The WAY above our pay grade folks. We're SAVED! Can we PLEASE go home now? We are just ocean cleaners! Our job is debris! Not weird GOO!

Enter, stage Super Cool Helicopters? The Elite Nerds of Earth. Of which Nedzu is one. Since Japan is closest. And it's a school weekend! He had some time.

And?

Ha ha... Thanks, he hates it! Nedzu's stoat brain is SCREAMING and he wants NOTHING to do with...? What he is somehow CERTAIN is a floating pit of Death! Interesting effect. Anyone getting that or just him?

Then? Some hot head on loan to Korea from the states? Spots something. SomeONE. And does he TELL the newly arrived professionals? So they may do a risk assessment? Figure out a way to rescue this individual SAFELY? Of course not!

Said hot head has supposedly indescribable chains! So he just flings them rights on in! Grabbing the boy from the center of the portal, pulling him free, and in the process? Immediately destabilizing it. Causing it to collapse down towards everyone bellow.

He also then proceeds to DROP the young lad, in his alarm at this entirely predictable outcome.

Right. Into. The Ocean.

A boy, who is dressed in filthy medical scrubs, haunting familiar in a way nothing should EVER be again, and entirely unconscious. Plunge down into the briny deeps and bitter cold. Alone. Abandoned. Death, thick and viscous, losing form and raining down like bile.

Everyone saving themselves.

Ah, he rather liked this suit.

The salt water ruins it. The droplets of Green, burn like molten glass each time they touch him. He will likely have at least a few new scars, after today. Assuming this is not the end of him. But he swims fast. The boy sinking slower then his size would suggest he should. He grabs hold and arcs, dragging them both from beneath the fallout of yet another humans hubris.

He does not stop swimming. Not until he knows he is near the helicopter. He is thankful, that he dragged Aizawa along. The man takes one look at his serious expression, the state of his rescued young friend, and merely hauls them both out of the water and into the machine.

Time to go.

They saw nothing, it seems. And there is nothing to be found.

The boy does not wake. Not for quite a while. Long enough, that Nedzu, perhaps unwisely, has grown attached. Is considering adoption. If only too terrorize a few goverment bodies. And... well... the boy will need some who UNDERSTANDS. And the scars paint a very specific sort of tale. But first, the most important question, when beginning these things...

"Tea? Or would you prefer coffee?"

@the-witchhunter @mutable-manifestation @hypewinter @hdgnj

[octuscle]

Hey, I need some urgent help! My boyfriend and I are enjoying the summer on a cruise. Its been great but he wanted to play in one of these stupid game shows. They call it a couples make over or something. We thought it would be funny, like just clothes or something. But they use the chronivac to give a real make over experience with audience input. Well apparently they thought it would be funny to turn my boyfriend into a hairy southern redneck with the thickest accent I've ever heard. I asked him if he's alright and I swear they must've dropped his IQ too. He sounds so stupid. And he's totally into it- he asked to stay this way for the rest of the trip! And now he keeps riling up the crowd telling them to give him a good southern boy to match him. They're taking me back stage now! Please, I need some help!

Okay. I'm afraid I'm late again. You're already on stage. Your transformation seems to have been successfully completed as well.

"Guys, thanks uh lot fahwar thuh transformation. Nuthin' beats thuh lads frum Alabama! Few wonna say sum reeyul dick, come visit us in cabin 1862!" you shout into the microphone. Your friend adds, "Don't knock, gist come in. But beware, we're always naked in thuh cabin. Git reddy fahwar twice 12 inches uh prime beef between our legs."

Dang, you two make a much prettier couple than before that way, though. Okay, you're both as thick as two short planks. But hell, you've got abs!

As a bonus, I made almost all of your tops disappear by the end of the cruise. All you have left are a couple of tank tops. And your necklaces. They go great with the huge belt buckles and the cowboy boots.

Now make your way to the karaoke bar. Sweet Home Alabama. At least twice. And afterwards something nice by Dolly Parton. Have fun!

Best place for finding pics like this is @redneckbromance

[menonlywrestling]

Older / Younger Pro tag couples.

Ted and David (Top) met when Ted was training David in his Pro wrestling gym in Ohio.

Tony and Elijah (Bottom) met when Elijah's father approached Tony, who he knew from living in the same neighbourhood, and who wrestled pro, asking if he would be interested in training his son, who had dreams of becoming a pro wrestler. Tony has a ring set up in his basement.

Ted and Tony know each other through the pro wrestling circuit, and last year, while chatting over a few beers, talked about their partners, and were chuckling about how older blokes like them could end up with hot younger lads, who are devoted to them. "I guess we're Daddies now"

The older men decided they'd like to see their younger partners wrestle. So Ted took David to Tonys house. Tony and Elijah were already in their gear, boots and all, when they arrived.

After everyone was in their gear, the older men led the lads to the basement, and told them to wrestle. The gents sat on an old busted couch facing the ring. Tony rang the bell and the boys started circling each other.

They lock up, and David immediately lands a brutal knee to Elijahs gut, winding him, quickly followed by a powerful forearm smash to his shoulders, forcing him to his knees. David then tightly grabs a fistful of Elijahs hair, and throws him out of the ring, onto the floor in front of the watching men.

Following him out of the ring, David again pulls him up by his hair, more knees to the gut, more forearm smashes to the shoulders, each time pulling him back up from the ground by the hair to deliver more punishment. Still with a handful of hair he then begins to smash Elijah's head against the corner of the ring, opening a cut in his forehead. He turns him round so the men can see what he's done.

He winks at Ted, before throwing his young opponent face down onto the floor. Elijah is dazed. David knees him in the back, before applying a VERY long held Boston. At this sight, the older mens hands almost simultaneously go down the front of their singlets, to start playing with their massive thick and heavy rock hard boners. Pre cum already showing in the fabric.

David continues to totally dominate Elijah in and out of the ring. After 45 mins the bell is rung and they declare David the winner. David stands with one foot on Elijahs chest, while Ted raises his arm, and Tony puts an old championship belt round his waist. They take photos of David while he flexes. His foot has now made its way to Elijahs face. "I see you got yourself a Heel in the makin here, Ted" Tony says.

The older men start planning for upcoming private basement matches. Naked oil, dog collar, tag, 2 on 1 etc. They're discussing this while they fuck the others partners tight hairy asses in the ring. The thought of it exciting them even more as they pound away.

They really have struck gold with these two.

[upwards-descent]

Aching

Link was a difficult little thing to keep alive.

He was a decent swordsman but he too often rushed into danger. He was impressively intelligent but sometimes fell prey to snap decisions. He was overflowing with good will and yet he didn't say 'no' when he really should have.

Ganondorf witnessed it over and over again. Within an hour of first meeting, the maniac as a beast nearly hurtled off the top of Hyrule Castle. In the Forest Temple of Ordon, he was almost eaten by giant spiders, at least three times. He faced the Goron elders in their own form of combat without a second thought and won.

The lad was insane.

This was the first time he'd ever made the Gerudo sweat, though.

"I cannot believe you," Ganondorf huffed, pausing his effort in rendering aid to simply catch his breath. "What sort of idiot with a death wish just charges an enemy he's never even seen before?"

The great mansion of Yeto and Yeta was fearsome, both in design and location. The bitter icy winds whipped at the infrastructure. Every hall featured a different sort of hell. It'd been a miracle to find a small bubble of safety, some sort of lounge in a remote corner of the home where the pair could wait and lick their wounds.

"We're fiiine," Link flapped his hand weakly. His pupils were a bit too dilated for Ganondorf's taste. "See? I'm barely bleeding anymore."

"Because I already sewed up the wound. Stop talking and drink."

The Gerudo's tone was firm yet not unkind. When Link's complexion remained pale, he found no qualms in holding his head up in a sizeable palm while feeding him the last of a health potion. Ganondorf knew the taste was vile and, though he was above dignifying the flavor with a response, he was wholly impressed when Link finished the tonic without complaint. Some color finally began to seep into his cheeks and he heaved a sigh of relief.

"You're a menace." Ganondorf huffed, most of the real heat leeching out of his voice.

"That's not what you say when I suc--"

The Ordonian was promptly silenced with a hand over his mouth. Ganondorf's eyes narrowed slightly when he felt the unmistakable wetness of a tongue attempting to lick his touch away. Just to be spiteful, he curled his grip around the majority of Link's head and gave it a slight squeeze. Satisfied, he relinquished his hold, only to find the little Hylian staring up at him with a dopey smile and glassy look in his eyes.

"You look unwell." Ganondorf drolled.

"Sorry, just... Daydreaming for a sec," Link's voice was still a little slurred. Though the dark patch of fresh blood on the front of his tunic wasn't growing, it was still a sickening sight. Thank the goddesses his vital organs had been missed when he was stabbed. "You promise you'll visit me in Ordon when all this is done?"

"Yes, I've promised multiple times now," The Gerudo knight had shifted, sensing the need for them to lay low a little longer. He sat cross-legged on the floor beside his companion, his armor allowing some semblance of flexibility. "Once the princess of Twilight is freed and the false king Zant is slain, we will take you home."

"Mmh," Link sighed. He looked strangely vulnerable with his floppy cap off, having been folded up and tucked under his head for support. "I can't stop thinking about all the stuff I wanna show you. The best fishing spot. The woods when they're not swarming with monsters. The goats."

Ganondorf's eyes widened as Link's voice grew thick with emotion. 

"Sorry," A shaking hand lifted to scrub at his face. "Homesick. Keep... Thinking about the kids in Kakariko, of Ilia."

Unsure how to comfort the young swordsman, Ganondorf settled on laying a broad hand against his thigh. Link huffed through his nose, letting out a quiet groan.

"It's just... Nice to think of you being there, too," The Hylian glanced at his companion. "With me, y'know? After all we've been through, it's... I just wanna share more memories before you leave."

"Leave?" Ganondorf echoed, brows furrowing.

"Y'know. Go back to your own home," Link was outright avoiding his eyes now, staring instead at the fireplace, watching the flames flicker and dance. Though it was small, it helped a lot to keep the cold at bay. "You keep talking about... About doing your birthright proper, about bringing back the Gerudo, about reintegrating into Hyrule and... That's amazing, of course, and I'm sure princess Zelda would be really supportive, I just..."

Ganondorf inhaled deeply. When he exhaled, Link seemed to follow and a little tension eased out of the room.

I can't help how I feel about you, The Hylian signed where spoken words evaded him. His fingers trembled but Ganondorf had really improved and could still follow. You're my first. We've been through so much together. I want you in my life.

You have me, Ganondorf signed back. The smile that touched his lips was warm and kind, even on his intimidating features. "I'm not ever leaving you like that, Link. Even when I'm out rebuilding my tribe, you have me. In here."

His touch settled over the Hylian's heart and Link let out a flustered laugh. At least he seemed well enough to blush.

"Close your eyes and rest proper for a bit," Ganondorf shifted to stand, plucking up the Sword of the Sages as he did so. He made sure to scoot Link's own weapons closer so the boy could snatch them up if need be. "I'll just be checking the perimeter. When you feel well enough to continue, we'll push on--"

He froze when a little hand settled on his ankle. Link was such a formidable warrior but he was so small. Ganondorf knew better than to treat him like glass but it was difficult when the Hylian looked the way he did, naturally beautiful in a way that was wholly uncommon.

"Thank you," Link croaked, and a smile finally touched his lips. "I'll be fine, just... Don't be too long."

"I won't."

Some little voice in Ganondorf's head was urging him to bend down, to press a hand against his companion's brow to check his temperature, to lower himself for a kiss to ease the young warrior's heart. Instead, he simply nodded and did his best to project total confidence and strength.

When they were done here and out of the damned cold, there would be plenty of time for some well-deserved love.

[zeldaelmo]

Summary: He has done it all before, but the difference is - this time he remembers.

No warnings, rating: General

@zelinkcommunity 's prompt 'yearning'. Beware, it's sad. More funny things the other days, promised!

Big thanks to my friend @bahbahhh who beta read this one!

Spoilers for the dragon tears quest.

Edit: added the full fic because Ao3 is down.

Lonely at the Top

"Kogah's cooking something up," Link mutters, voice carried away by icy winds that make his cheeks numb. "Lad got mad when his researchers showed me the autobuild function." He sighs, ice crystals slowly building on his skin where he's breathing out. "I made it to the old Gerudo mine, but then he escaped to Lanayru. Couldn't follow him underground."

His only answer is the wind and the light tingling of the Master Sword's magic in the air.

Link swallows against the tears that'll freeze in the corner of his eyes if he lets them escape. 

He won't. They won’t change anything.

"You know, fighting him isn't that hard. I made a nice discovery, you'd go feral over it if—" Pressing his eyes close, he breaks off. "Anyway, I can attach Keese eyes to arrows and it makes them find their target on their own." A strangled laugh gets half-stuck in his throat. "Would help you with the little drift to the left you're fighting against when we're hunting."

His words get lost in the wind tearing at his clothes. Nothing but silence.

Link's hand scrambles over the scales under him — rough, calloused palm on smooth horn — but it finds no purpose. There's nothing to dig his hands in and nothing to touch but lifeless scales. She used to squeal and dive away from him in laughter when he indulged in the bad habit of squishing her everywhere where she's soft. The sound of her laugh that he still hasn't forgotten somehow (him, the amnesiac!) rings hollow in his ears like the third or fourth wave of an echo. 

He will never hear it again.

He knows this — he knows this! — and it still takes a long moment of an ever-expanding hollowness inside him to sink in. 

“Zelda,” he pleads, but the white dragon continues his stoic flight through the dark-blue night sky without any indication that she knows he’s here. Desperate for a reaction, for something he can feel, he lunges forward and grabs the thick, blonde strands of hair with cold-numb fingers. They are waxen and coarse at the same time and feel so depressingly foreign on his skin that he whimpers.

Her new haircut had been one of his favorite surprises to come home to. He loved to slowly let his hand wander up her now-exposed neck and bury it in the soft hair at her nape when they kissed, causing her to breathe a little sigh of happiness into his mouth. 

Reluctantly, he shoves his hand forward now, digging deeper and deeper into the mane of the dragon but it’s like trying to get a rise out of a statue. 

He knows why she’s done it. He wants to tear at the strands in his hands to bring her back and scream at her that she should have let this demon-tormented land burn and leave the ashes to rot for a life with him, but he knows she couldn’t. It’s duty first for them, always. Not because of old orders of a long forgotten kingdom, but because of who they are. Blood of the Goddess and Soul of the Hero sound like shackles to some, and there were times when the pressure lasting on them made it feel like that, but it’s not so simple. The truth is that it’s what they are at their core. They see the evil rising in their dreams, hear their hearts drum with anticipation of the journey ahead, and feel their souls resonate with the urge to set everything right again. They can’t escape. There is no happiness to be found for them if they refuse the call. To believe they can tell fate a firm ‘no’ and turn around to continue their domestic bliss in Hateno is an illusion, albeit a tempting one. The only choice they can make is between dooming themselves or dooming the world, and as heart-breaking as it is, it is an easy one.

When the first reports about unusual monster activities and the gloom reached them, they didn’t even need to talk about it. Sure, they installed a crew of monster hunters and the scholars did their best to find out as much as they could about the gloom and its consequences, but they already knew that wouldn’t fix anything in the long run. There was nobody else who could deal with the source of the problem. Who else could they have sent down the caves? Robbie, who couldn’t even see where he went half of the time because he forgot to take off his goggles? Impa, with her hundred-thirty years? Purah and Josha, who had excitement for ten but courage for none? Skilled fighters were even more rare to find than scholars. No, it was up to them. They even tolerated the gloom better than anyone else who dared to get too close. Their refusal would mean someone else had to risk illness. The wish to protect everyone they cared about, to not lose everyone who had grown close again, was that duty? Or courage and wisdom? He couldn’t tell and it mattered so little that he had stopped to aks. It was up to them — Blood of the Goddess and the Soul of the Hero, together at least — so they gritted their teeth and set to work.

Now, there's no one left to figure it out but him. Zelda has poured all her wisdom in that now millenia-old, irreversible decision to give him what he needs to fight the Demon King. They have been dragged in a war that isn’t theirs but can’t be won without them. The Sheikah, sworn protector of the royal family — even Impa with all her knowledge and experience — are at a loss. The other races deal with their problems, a warm word here and there is all they have to give. Warm words aren’t going to stop the Demon King. 

He's wasting time; the tingling, taunting Master Sword — how long, for how long has it been in her head? —  just in front of him is a cruel reminder of that. He isn’t strong enough to pull it. The Demon King did too much damage to the vessel that is his body. He should beat the shrines Zelda has prepared for him, always hoping, never knowing he would be able to accomplish them. There’s so much to learn on this quest, so many crazy things he’s able to do with the foreign hand on his body, and he needs to conquer all of them to even have a chance at beating the Demon King. 

It’s just… He lets go of the strands, which feel wrong in his palms anyway, and sighs. It's just… He isn’t used to being so lonely anymore. Sure, he has done all of this before; the shrines, the solitude in the wild, the patching himself up at a campfire with a cloth between his teeth and a needle threading through his marred skin. But it’s been years and now he remembers. Back then she was a sweet voice in his head and only towards the end he realized that the stakes weren't only high for Hyrule but for him, too. Now it's different. He knows Zelda likes her crepes with extra honey in the mornings and that the quiet hours between evening and midnight are her favorites to study in her secret room in the well. He knows how warm she is in his arms on the rare occasions they have time for an afternoon nap. He knows the gasp she breathes into the night when he’s pulling her closer and makes her feel alive.

Sometimes he wishes he couldn't. 

Maybe, one day, he’ll be able to treasure the time they had and the grief of his loss will dull. A couple of peaceful years full of love — it’s more than most heroes had. He should be thankful, but the thing with happiness is that you don’t get enough of it. There’s no such a thing as growing tired of happiness. 

With stiff fingers, he searches for another elixir in his pocket. He could just change into appropriate winter clothing, but he likes to wear the tunic she made for him. The fact she doesn't react to it doesn't mean she doesn't notice. Right? With a defeated grunt, he pulls out one bottle after another, but he has used them all up already. 

Time is flying.

He needs to keep going, anyway. There’s a shrine he discovered yesterday on his way down and if he isn’t mistaken, the last ancient stone tablet is close by so he can glide over when he’s done. He checks his Purah Pad and the paraglider, taking a wistful glance at the sword. Maybe pulling it would turn her back since she would have fulfilled her destiny then? 

He doesn’t really think so, but at this point, he’s grasping at straws. 

It took him two weeks to press every single Zonai researcher he could find for information about the dragons and the Secret Stones. He spent another four weeks hunting every last rumor that had anything remotely to do with the old legends, even the vague ones. Eventually, he settled for simply asking everyone he met about it, but it was to no avail. Nobody knew anything about the forbidden ritual of swallowing a Secret Stone. He got nothing but weird looks about his sudden interest in ancient, unknown practices. Maybe the last stone tablet will reveal useful information. If only he could talk to Sonia, Rauru, or Mineru… or even to the maid who eternized her thoughts on the tablets, but he has to rely on second hand information. 

He takes a deep, shuddering breath and jumps, his muscles immediately taking up their memorized position of holding onto the paraglider. Tulin’s avatar pops up next to him the moment his feet leave the white dragon. It’s the manifestation of the Sages’ loyalty to him, or more to them both, but while Link appreciates Tulin’s deadly aim in battle and his gust of wind, the avatars still have that odd air of hollowness about them that Revali and the others radiated on his quest to destroy Ganon. 

Sometimes he forgets they aren’t dead yet.

“Hey,” he says when he’s close enough so that she should see him. The stare of her greenish eye is empty and she looks right through him, as if he’s the hollow one. (Is he?) “There’s a building plot in Akkala I could buy. You know, for when we have…” The words get stuck in his throat. She dives down, down, down on her own path, unaware of the figure dangling from a paraglider talking to her. He’s only torturing himself when he entertains the idea of buying a house meant for a family he’ll never have with her, but going back to Hateno alone is even worse.

He sinks down to be at eye level again with her, the cold now making his muscles so stiff that he’ll need to change into a skydive soon to reach warmer air or he’ll lose control. “I’m going to beat a couple of shrines now, I promise,” he whispers. "Don't worry. I wouldn't dare to let your sacrifice go to waste."

The white dragon stares ahead. Link stares back at his own, jittering, red-faced reflection in her eyes, and scrambles for more words, something that would reach her somehow, knowing from dozens of attempts that there is nothing. He'll be back tomorrow anyway. And maybe he'll bring her one of Koko’s flower rings. It would make a perfect flower crown for her. He tries hard not to think about Rauru leaving flowers at Sonia’s grave. Zelda isn’t dead, she’s just not herself. And as long as that is the case, there’s hope, slim as it may be. She has placed all her hopes on him, the least he can do is keep going. She has made her choice, and now he’s making his. He’ll be back tomorrow. He’ll get stronger, and he’ll come back every day. Collect lights of blessings, clear monster camps, pull the sword. Keep going, keep going, coming back tomorrow. And the day after tomorrow. Keep going. Beat the Demon King. And then?

He lingers against better judgment, fingers numb and eyes watery until his arms give out and he plummets from the sky, the white dragon not bothering to catch him.

He’ll be back tomorrow.

[dasillypacowaco]

First met.

So, Pim and Hobie actually met 3 times before they start getting to know each other so we're gonna go through all those times bc I'm bored.

The sound of people chattering and doing their things filled the spider society HQ. Pim just got recruited a week ago and was already overwhelmed by how much spider-people there actually are, and he was a bit scared as well.

Pim walked around the HQ, trying to find his way around with confusion when he bumped into someone, or maybe that someone bumped into him, he wasn't sure. But what he sure was that he fell onto his butt while hearing a deep male voice with cockney accent said,

"sorry, mate, my bad."

Pim looked up, but the person seems to be gone already, leaving him puzzled and a tiny bit upset.

An hour and a half... it's been an hour and a half since Pim has been tapping his foot furiously, grumbling and walking around in circles as he waited on something. Or rather someone.

"ugh, where the fuck is that guy!?"

Pim was on a mission, a mission that Miguel has assigned him on with another spider-person. He doesn't know who they are but he knows one thing, he already hated them. Who leave their co-worker waiting for an hour and a half on a mission!? They better have one hell of a good reason.

Then, the sound of portal coming from behind Pim making him jumped slightly as he turned around and ready to see what kind of person made him waited this long.

Jumping out from the opened portal was a tall, lanky Spider-Man with punk style clothing and spikes everywhere. Pim was...intimidated, to say the least. In his universe it was a slight cyber-punk world with an entire different fashion, so seeing some dressed like that was not an usual thing.

"Let just get this over with, yeah?"

The punk guy walked pass Pim. His voice was deep and his accent was thick. Pim, being a none native English speaker, barely made out what the guy said.

"Hey! Do you know how long I've been waiting for you!? Where were you!??"

"I don't believe in time."

...what? Pim was confused, upset, frustrated, and hated this man's gut.

After the mission (which was not a pleasant mission) he found out that the guy he just went on a mission with was Hobart "Hobie" Brown from E-138. He made sure to remember his name and tell Miguel not to pear him up with that guy ever again or he'll quit.

Pim jumped out of the portal, into HQ with a tied up anomaly in his arms and Gwen Stacy, or Ghost-spider by his side. They just finished a mission together and surprisingly, they've become a really good friend despite the fact that they went on only one mission together.

After dealing with the anomaly, Gwen leaded Pim through the HQ to meet her friend. She wanted them to be friends as well since they both are really good friends to her.

"So...Pim, this is Hobie. Hobie, this is Pim!"

Glaring. The only thing Pim gave Hobie was an intense glare. He didn't expect this, and didn't like this at all. Though, he couldn't deny that Hobie was...kinda attractive without his mask but that's not the point.

"Ay! It's you, lad! Little grumpy mate! Been a while, innit?"

"Nope."

Pim decided that he can't deal with this today. He turned around instantly and walked away from the two. Gwen was confused, but Hobie seems to be amused as he scoffed and watched Pim walked away.

"wait- you guys know each other?"

Later date on, Gwen tried to convince Pim that Hobie wasn't as bad as he thinks and to give the man a chance. So Pim started to hang out with Gwen and Hobie, and also Pavitr more. He still hate Hobie's gut though, but admir how he stands up for what he believes in and how he cares about his friends.

If the grammar was messed up or wrong please don't attack me, English is not my first language I'm so sorry

[corsair-ffxiv]

FFXIVWrite2024 - Day 27: Memory

Coin rolled in his palm, Sal staring at the water below the lip of the dock he leaned on, a small lamp on the pillar the Corsair was against providing light to the waves and water and young man. His eyes watched the dock, having slunk back to Nashmau and this time in the shadows, a thick brown coat hiding any hint of red in its folds and depths.

With his eyes closed Sal could imagine that beyond the Marsh he could hear the Fomor in Arrapago Reef still and his head bowed, the waves singing and crying with the teeming souls of the drowned. He had forged peace with Aphmau - Nashmeira - but it had cost him everything he had loved. The closest thing to his home was the port city Nashmau where he had spent a few turns surviving when the seas had spit him out as Odin had raised the Ebony Queen, hiding from the inspection of the Empire, and for their safety Sal sat on the pier away from the people, head down and hands hidden by shadows.

He had left the last time with the ward of evil in his wake, knowing Marafarh had passed her helm to Javed and Javed… had none of the grace Marafarh had or care for a child she'd watched grow up. And Sal, who had only wanted to give his few people left peace, took their demand for exile as the only thing he could do for them: he was shadowed by Beasts and nothing Sal could do could remove that stain. Nines might no longer follow him as much but Nines still could, and even if Aphmau commanded the Beasts to change - they were Beasts.

He'd seen their souls break and knew things the Immortals would never let be known free.

"Lad, y' grabbing supplies?" The ship captain he had been working with on the journey over caught that of all the crew Sal had remained near the ship like it was a leash and the teen - a young man now, leaving the innocent turns behind more and more - lifted his head and offered a lopsided smile, hair hiding an eye that glimmered gold in the dim light.

"We're leaving at tide, aye?"

"Aye."

"Don't need anythin' then."

The captain slowly came up beside him, looking down at Sal and his coat, spotting the bulk hidden in the coat, the thick squat gun he carried but never drew, then watched his hands a moment, long enough to see the glint in his palm. "What stories does that coin have then, lad?"

Sal lifted the coin up and on one side cresting waves and a dolphin squad, on the other a ship. The coin looked worn, beloved, cared for in a way that spoke of constant holding and time and the Captain, for a moment, felt in his blood and bones the salt of the sea reaching out as he stared. He'd seen the coins before, once, in a dusty box but this coin had never been stored in a box away from sight.

"Love and curse. Blood and salt. Death and damnation," came the answer from the odd lad who'd joined their crew in a squall and had never asked for anything. He loved the sea, anyone with eyes could tell - the only thing he loved, maybe, as the captain heard the layer of loathing wrapped around Sal's words as the coin vanished again.

Silence and waves before the captain spoke. "Who're y' named for then, lad?"

A laugh before Sal's eyes closed and he drew in the air. "Luzaf."

"Dangerous name to carry, especially here."

"That's not why." Sal looked at the captain and his smile was light. "If you want, I'll leave. No one here will blame y', if you worry."

Little pieces clinked into place for the sailor as he looked from Sal to the port. "You've been here before."

"Yes."

"And they've asked y' to stay away."

"Yes."

Sal offered nothing at the damning words - no explanation, no tears, no pleading. The captain felt like the boy had accepted the reason for the sentence it was, and the captain knew this port was special, old, ancient and quiet as if it carried ghosts in its cellars. "The crew?"

"They'll be fine." Now there was something in Sal's tone, the guilt and swallow quick, harsh. "It's me. Not like y' knew. I bought passage, I'm not crew." His hand closed on something. "You can leave my bag on the dock."

Staring at the man who had left the ship and stayed on the dock instead of setting foot on the land of the city the captain weighed the unknowns like a pile of sand and coins on a scale. And then, looking at the city, he sighed even as he pulled his hat on and started to move. "Nothin' personal, lad. You're good with the ship, with the sea-"

"Captain has to look out for his crew first." Soft words but understanding.

The captain wondered if he felt better for them even as he left the strange passenger alone on the docks, watching now and catching sight of the spotters he'd missed before, ones Sal likely had known about given he'd stayed unmoving as soon as they docked. His crew and their work needed Nashmau more than they needed the coin from a cursed lad - a whistle back to the ship and a rough call and a few ticks later Sal's bag, packed as if he'd expected this, was set on the dock near him as the captain turned from the ship, walking the planks to Nashmau and away.

Leaning on the bag on one side, the pillar on another, Sal let his eyes close and held his breath until his lungs burned.

[joshuaorrizonte]

Untitled Chapter Twelve: Dragonslayer

@eventide-imp @zottower

Comment to be tagged/untagged!

Kain stared at Michel and Petre, not understanding what they were saying. “What… why would a dragon not Stormsong want anything to do with me?” he protested, gaze shifting between them rapidly.

“We were hoping you knew that,” Michel said evenly. “In any event, we must go back to Elymont-“

“No.” 

“Ash?” Kain looked at the porter, who was staring at the two peacekeepers in open hostility.

Ash shook his head firmly. “Who are these people, Kain, and how do you know they’re telling the truth?”

Petre gasped in fury, “I’m not going to let an elf-“

“Petre!” Michel barked. The younger man quieted, seething, and Michel looked back at Ash. “Fair questions. Petre and I are peacekeepers from the village Kain grew up in.” Kain noticed Michel’s phrasing with a sharp pain in his heart. So it was the village he grew up in, and not his village… “As for how you know we’re telling the truth, you don’t. But Kain knows we would not lie-“

“Kain knows nothing of the sort,” Kain replied hotly. Michel’s eyes widened in surprise and Kain finished, “I ran when the elder wanted to hold me against my will and ‘undo the night elf’s brainwashing. I have no assurance whatsoever that this isn't merely a ploy to get me to return."

Michel’s face reddened. "I would never-"

"Wouldn't you?" Kain demanded. "How do I know you wouldn't, when you put me in that position in the first place!"

"I did not!" Michel thundered. "If anyone did, it was Petre-"

Petre snarled, "I did, and I'd do it again-"

"And that's why he's not going with you," Ash remarked dryly. "Come on, Kain."

"Wait!"

Michel’s voice was desperate, and Kain couldn't imagine that he was lying. He wasn't that good an actor. "Petre is an asshole. I'm not denying that."

"Michel-!"

"Shut up!" Michel snapped. "Petre is an asshole," he repeated, "but we're telling the truth! Thousands will die if you don't-"

"Michel, listen to me," Kain said steadily. "The dragons are gone. I don't know what destroyed Reythak, but it wasn't a dragon."

"It was, Kain," Petre spat. 

"How did it tell you it wanted me?" Kain challenged. "Dragons can't make human sound!"

"Kain, why would we tell such an obvious lie?" Michel gasped. 

His question finally gave Kain pause. Why would they tell such an obvious lie, indeed? It seemed that Ash had the same thought; " Well, how about this: describe it for us."

"Describe-?"

"The dragon," Kain answered, seeing what Ash was going for. "I'm a dragon rider. I know every breed of dragon there is. I may be able to tell what attacked you."

"What difference will it make?" Petre's voice was despairing, like he finally understood his position, and it didn't look good. "You already don't believe us, and as you say: no dragon could have done what this one did!" 

"Just do it," Kain clipped back. "I can't help if I don't have a clear picture of what's going on."

Michel's eyes narrowed at him, but he spoke anyway. "It was... it was huge. The biggest dragon I'd ever seen. It was black as the darkest night; its scales seemed to absorb light. Its wingspan seemed to run the width of the town. Its eyes were the deepest black, even darker than its scales-"

Kain stopped him with a wild, disbelieving gasp. "No!"

"Kain?" As Ash put a hand on his shoulder, Petre spoke his name, concern and dread thick in his voice. 

He had gone utterly pale and lightheaded. His heart beat erratically in utter terror, and for the very first time in his life, he was afraid he was going to pass out. His vision started going gray at the edges as he wheezed, "That dragon... was..."

"Easy, lad." 

"Who're you?" Ash demanded, his voice distant. 

"That doesn't matter right now. We need to get this poor boy a seat and some sugar-"

"Sugar?" 

"Later. Here, have him sit on this tree stump. There we go, just like that. I have some sugar water here-“

“Who carries sugar water?” Michel asked, bewildered.

The stranger replied sharply, “Someone with sugar sickness. Here, lad, drink up.”

The stranger pushed the bottle into his hands and helped guide the opening of the bottle to his mouth. He nearly choked on the cloying sweetness of the water, but he swallowed it with only a grimace. In seconds, the nausea and dizziness began to subside, and sound became clear again. 

Ash, Petre, and Michel continued talking with the stranger while Kain recovered. He listened closely, not quite believing he hadn’t hallucinated Michel’s description of the dragon. “Forgive me,” the strange man said as Kain looked him over. He was handsome, with sandy blond hair and ice blue eyes. He wore simple traveling garb and carried a leather pack; Kain saw no weapons on his person but a dagger. He had no doubt, from the confidence in the way the man moved, that he knew how to use it to defend himself. “I didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but I couldn’t help overhearing your conversation. That dragon you described: it spoke to you?”

Michel and Petre both nodded. “It did,” Petre said firmly. “And we’re to bring Kain - that man you just helped - back to him, or the dragon will destroy another town—this one a populous harbor city.”

The man’s eyes widened for a moment. His cold gaze turned to Kain, and Kain thought he saw something shift in his eyes. “I’m afraid you have a problem,” the man said solemnly, “that goes beyond this man’s life.”

“What problem is that?” Ash asked, rubbing Kain’s back in firm, soothing circles. He wanted to tell Ash that he could stop, but he still hadn’t found his voice. 

“That dragon you described,” the stranger said softly, “was Bahamut, the father of the dragons.”

At that confirmation, Kain felt the world fall out from beneath him.

~*~

Gavin walked carefully through the streets, making sure Liashta was always beside him. Every once in a while, noise pierced the quiet night. The howl of a stray dog; laughter, a scream. Liashta cringed beside him, but her steps did not falter. 

They had been walking for about an hour, Gavin guiding them down alleys and keeping to the shadows. As far as Gavin could tell, no one was following them. But this was a city of hidden danger, especially where they were. If whoever wanted him dead was following him, they'd strike here, where they could kill and leave him there, just another body in the street. And if they caught him like this, Liashta was dead, too. He couldn't let that happen. 

He was vaguely aware that Stormsong was still trying to guide them. He was tempted to resist her, force her to return to him and explain herself. He gritted his teeth against the impulse. She was, no matter what form she was in, a dragon. As a rider, he was subservient to her, and not the other way around. And she knew it, otherwise she wouldn't be doing this. 

He felt her pulling him towards a dilapidated, three-storied building. No light shone in its dingy windows; indeed, from what Gavin could tell, the thing had suffered a fire in recent history, likely was not safe to occupy. Still he felt Stormsong pulling them towards the building, and though he wanted to abandon her at that point, he knew he would never bring himself to do so. She was Kain’s dragon, and he would protect her no matter what happened.

But why did it matter so desperately what Kain thought? They were lovers, true, but it wasn’t like Gavin was in love with him. 

The thought gave him pause, as he headed for the dilapidated building, Liashta protesting behind him. When he felt a strange ache in his chest when he thought of Kain, a pain that intensified when he denied that he loved Kain. It was something to think about. 

In the meantime… “Trust me, Liashta.” He paused. “Or rather, trust Stormsong. She’s calling me here.”

“I can feel it, too,” Liashta admitted, “but are we really going to follow a child into a condemnable building?”

“We are,” Gavin confirmed. Liashta inhaled, intending to snap at him, and he headed her off, “Stormsong is the most qualified of the three of us to tell if something is safe or not. She’s telling me that we’ll be safe here. I have to trust her. And you do, too, by extension, because your alternative is to attempt to make it on your own. I don’t think you want to do that.”

“I don’t,” she agreed, grumbling the words. She quickened her steps to match Gavin’s, and they approached the structure together. Gavin tried the door and discovered it locked, the doorknob stubbornly refusing to turn. Gavin raised an eyebrow, and Liashta said, doubtfully, “Stormsong likely locked it for safety.”

Shrugging, Gavin knocked on the door. No response. With a frown, his knock turned to a pounding, and that got a response, an old man answering the door. He looked Gavin and Liashta up and down, his lip curling in derision. “What do you want, whippersnapper?” 

Taken aback, Gavin stuttered for a moment before finding his words. “A child of extraordinary power is supposedly here,” he said, his voice soft and unthreatening, the tones reminiscent of when he passed through Reythak. “She is-“

“A child, you say? No child here. Move along, move along. There’s nothing for-“

“It’s alright, Solaris. They’re the people I told you about.”

The man—Solaris—turned to look inside the house. “You sure, child? Changing appearances is easy magic-“

“I’m sure,” Stormsong’s calm, strangely mature voice answered. “Gavin has a very distinct aura. It’s him.”

“And his woman?”

Liashta growled, “I am not Gavin’s woman!”

Amused, Stormsong said dryly, “That’s her. Let them in, Solaris.”

Almost hesitantly, Solaris moved aside, and Gavin led Liashta into the building. The moment he stepped through, the room behind the door brightened, clean, well-lit, and beautifully furnished. There was no sign of the decay that plagued the outside of the building.

And there were others in the room. Stormsong sat on a plush couch with a woman and another child, and, as Gavin looked to Solaris for an explanation, the old man was suddenly young, younger than Gavin. Solaris grinned at Gavin’s confusion. “Changing appearances is easy magic,” he answered Gavin’s unasked question. “Stormsong says she’s a dragon. Is she telling the truth?”

“She is,” Gavin answered, as Liashta gawked at their surroundings.

“You’re her rider?”

At that, he shook his head slowly. “No. Her rider is… lost somewhere along the Eareux shore. I’m not sure where exactly he is.”

Solaris raised an eyebrow. “How do you know this? She told you? But that makes no sense; she should be able to pinpoint-“

“Before we go further,” Gavin interrupted flatly, “I’ll need information of my own. Who are you people? Why are you so scared of being found that you’ll mask this building with a glamour to make it look condemned?”

Solaris’s grin turned to a genuine smile. “We’re dragon singers, looking for the missing dragons.”

Understanding dawned on Gavin’s face. “I… I see. I am a dragon singer, as well. I’ve only encountered two dragons since they all vanished; Stormsong, and an ancient dragon being held prisoner by the governor of Elymont to… disappear undesireables.”

The woman asked, “A rider, singer, and dark knight? Are you collecting careers, elf?”

“Not collecting so much as falling into them,” Gavin answered, almost apologetically. "I can prove any of them, if you need me to."

"That won't be necessary," Solaris said. "You're only hurting yourself if you're lying. I am Solaris, as you've likely surmised. The woman is Adele, and the child Tristan. We're pleased to meet you, Gavin, Liashta. Stormsong tells us you are a singer as well, albeit untrained. We can help you with that, if you like."

Liashta cast a furtive, unsure glance at Gavin. Gavin shrugged, and Liashta swallowed thickly, thinking over her answer. "I... I'm not sure, to be honest. I didn't even know I had more magic than to encourage plants to grow, to be honest."

"Green magic is powerful magic," Solaris said, grimacing. "You need to be trained in that, at least. Won't you allow us to help you? Stormsong has told us of your goals, and we want to assist in any way we can."

Gavin and Liashta looked at each other, both of them hesitant. "Time is of the essence," Gavin answered. "I don't think we have the time to train her."

Solaris and Adele, too, exchanged looks. "You're headed to Darkfell, correct?" Adele said, her voice thick with an accent. "I could train her along with Tristan. Solaris could go with you to Darkfell-"

"Sorry, but no," Stormsong said flatly. "You're not separating us. I know I came to you for help, but we just met. I trust you're who you say you are, and that we're safe here for now. I don't trust you enough to let you separate us."

Solaris looked at her appraisingly. "You're wise beyond your appearance," he said after a moment. "We mean you no harm at all, but I suppose I'd refuse to be separated in your position, too. Is there anything holding us here, Adele?"

"Stability for Tristan," Adele replied haltingly, "but this life isn't very stabile itself. But to take him on the road to Darkfell would be..."

"I want to go."

All eyes turned to Tristan. The boy hadn't spoken at all since Gavin and Liashta arrived; and judging from Stormsong's expression, not since she arrived, either. "I want to go," he repeated, meekly. "I want to help find the dragons. I don't want to be a rider with no dragon."

"Tristan-" Solaris began. 

But Tristan wasn't having it. "No, listen to me! Lightdust begged me to save her as she was being taken. She was terrified, Solaris. Stormsong resisted it so hard she transformed into a human and can't change back! The dragons didn't want to go, and as a rider, I'm obligated to-"

"You're a child-"

"Sol!" Tristan shouted, startling them all. "I'm old enough to have seen my parents murdered in front of me, I'm old enough to have bonded with a dragon, and I'm old enough to help rescue her!"

They stared at him, taken aback by the outburst. As Adele was about to respond, Gavin interrupted bluntly, "Wait, did Lightdust tell you what was happening?"

Tristan, startled by Gavin's tone, looked at him with wide eyes. "She - she did. But I don't understand what she was talking about."

"Tell me!"

"Gavin?" Liashta prompted, trepidation in her voice. 

"You don't understand," Gavin said tightly. "I have to know what happened to them, Liashta. The whole reason I was in Reythak was to investigate what happened to them - and to rescue them, at all costs. I-"

"And who ordered you to do that?" Liashta challenged. "Drayden? He's dead, Gavin! You don't have to obey his commands-"

"No, Liashta, His Majesty. The king sent me with those orders. I have to obey these orders. And even if I didn't have to, I want to." He ran a hand through his hair, exhaling sharply. "Drayden told me before he died that he was planning to invade the Light Continent. I doubt his aspirations died when he did. We need to find the dragons before whoever steps into his shoes can reorganize and consolidate power. If that happens, and no one had their dragons, we win, Liashta. We will win against the Light Continent in every scenario. Do you want that? I don't!"

Liashta stared at him, horrified. "What... what do you mean?" Adele asked, her voice almost gentle. "Who is Drayden?"

"Drayden is - was - the captain of the Darkfell dragon riders. He held a massive amount of political power. I'd say he was the third most powerful person in Eeraux, only second to the king and queen. He had significant influence, and if he convinced his followers that he had the blessing of the court, there will be a war the Light continent can't win."

Solaris and Adele stared at him in utter disbelief. "You said that His Majesty directed you to find the dragons personally," Adele said. And this time her voice was hard. "Your surname wouldn't happen to be Skyglow, would it, Gavin?"

Gavin's voice was flat, resigned, almost lifeless as he answered, "Yes. I am Gavin Skyglow."

Tristan launched himself at Gavin with a strangled, enraged scream. Solaris caught him and hauled him back, snapping at the boy to control his emotions. "Monster!" the boy shrieked. "Get out! Get out!"

"Tristan!" Adele snapped, and said something fast and angry in a language Gavin didn't speak. Tristan replied, furious sobs ripping from his chest. 

Adele turned to them, her expression coldly enraged. "You have three minutes to explain why we should help you, Skyglow."

"I don't understand," Liashta murmured, looking from Adele to Gavin. The dark knight looked horrifically exhausted suddenly, agonizingly sad. He said nothing, though, and Liashta looked back to Adele, Solaris, and Tristan. “Someone tell me what’s going on!”

“Gavin Skyglow has another name,” Solaris said, every bit as suddenly cold as Adele. Liashta’s heart froze as Solaris spat it, derision in his voice: Gavin the Dragonslayer.”

[withacapitalp]

Hidden Gem Friday

We're back on Hidden Gem Friday lads! How is it Friday again :OOOOO As always I'm still taking recs for these! You can even send them anonymously if you like (That's how I got one o them today!!)

Someone's a Cuddler by not_a_smooth_man recced to me by the author on anon! 6.7k words (COMPLETE) Steddie- Eddie Centric

Summary:

That morning, though, Eddie came to following what was truly a deep, dreamless sleep. He was cocooned by a warmth that was lulling him into a wakeful state. As he regained consciousness, he began to realize that his left arm was numb, trapped under something warm and heavy. He also noticed that his head was perched on said heavy thing, rising and falling gently. That was the moment Eddie finally realized that he was cuddling Steve’s chest. And oh, not just Steve’s chest, but his bare chest. He had wrapped his arms entirely around him, their legs tangling under the thick comforter. Steve’s body must have responded in their sleep because his arms were draped over Eddie’s form. And because it was just his luck, it seemed that Steve was waking up too. “Mmh,” grunted Steve. He yawned. “Morning,” he said, muffled by Eddie’s hair. “Um.” Eddie said intelligently. Eddie felt Steve chuckle, his chest vibrating with the sound. “Someone’s a cuddler,” Steve said, a hint of teasing in his voice, still heavy with sleep. - Or, Eddie Munson is in love with Steve and accidentally cuddles with him.

My Thoughts:

Okay I really enjoyed this one! It has so much sentiment in it but it isn't saccharine? And I feel like this could have very easily gotten very cheesy but not in the good way. I love cheese, but some cheese is a no. I'm digressing but yes this just felt very nice when you're reading it. It's a trope I've seen used a lot, but I'm never disappointed to read it again, and this is a super cute version of it. I love that you sent it to me dear author!!! Techhhhnically it's not exactly a Hidden Gem because it was only published a few days ago, BUT the author asked me if I could tell people about their fic, so since it's under 2k I thought I would put it in here

A Life For Every Year (And One For After) by Kedreeva recced by me but initially shown to me by @horsegirleddiemunson! 4.7k words (Complete) Generic with Steve & Jonathan at core

Summary:

Steve meets her when he is nine years old. She is skin and bones, and fits in the cup of his hands like a tiny, furry tennis ball and her purr rattles against the skin of his palms. ---- Or, the one where baby Steve adopts the same stray kitten as baby Jonathan.

My Thoughts:

Ough THIS FIC. Okay first off I'll just say I LOVE when people take advantage of canon location settings and the fact that Steve and Jonathan lived in the same woods (and probably ran into those woods to escape from their terrible houses a lot if Castle Byers is any indication) is soooooooo yes The way this is written is so. It just feels good. Like so much of it is heartbreaking (the dog, the moment with Steve explaining why he got Daisy spayed, the Max and Daisy) but it's so heartwarming too. I just really enjoyed reading it, and I loved the reread. It has less than 500 hits and that's simply incomprehensible to me

This Is Why I Need You by beestlesandstars recced by me 3k words (Complete) Stobin Platonic Background Steddie

Summary:

It’s three AM and Robin is trying to remember how Steve liked his coffee.

My Thoughts:

Okay so I have not read this elusive glasses fic that apparently everyone has based fics off of, but I have read this one and it hurt me sm. I've written about one of the duo dying but Robin and not Steve, so seeing it flipped is OUCH. It just gives you that weird hollow chest feeling right before tears? Augh anyway painful but I love it . V V V Good and a super short read because you just flow with it

It's a Date by FeatherForARose aka @steddiealltheway also recced by me 2.7k (Complete)- Steddie w some side Stobin

Summary:

Everyone knows that Eddie is into Steve. It's common knowledge like saying the sky is blue. Only Steve is hesitant to believe it, but when he finally makes a move, it does not go as planned.

My Thoughts:

Omg I read this on Tumblr so long ago and then I found it on ao3 and died reading it all over again. I love common tropes, but I ADORE when writers subvert them. Eddie who didn't know he was gay? Eddie who saw his QPR in Chrissy and didn't realize it wasn't just a crush like Steve didn't realize? ITS SO Augh the recreation of the failed first attempt? Steve using anger as a shield for being upset? Okay I'm just saying plot points but seriously this fic is just such an enjoyable experience from start to finish. Also great characterization of everyone involved :DDD

does it get any easier? by vissers recced by me 5.7k (Complete) Get Dustin and Will w some Dustin and Mike and Dustin and Max

Summary:

“It’s nothing special, just—“ Will began, fighting against the smile that was brewing on his face. He paused, biting down on his lip and squeezing his eyes shut for just a second. “God, this is really embarrassing. We’ve been talking about this dumb crush I have. Among other things, obviously, but… yeah.” If the world hadn’t already been rocked by that giant fucking ‘earthquake’, the prospect of Will Byers having a crush would have had the same effect. Dustin was sure of it. --- Dustin and Will talk D&D, PTSD, and unfortunate crushes.  (part two of will coming out to the party)

My Thoughts:

Oh my goddddddd. YOU GUYS KNOW I love my boys but damn if party centric fics don't just get me right in my heart. This one is so well done with the characters. They feel like themselves, they joke, they get annoyed, and this is a really good Dustin Centric. It deals with his PTSD about Eddie, and there's all these little details thrown in that are clearly put there with such care but only make the story more intricate. It's so well written, and I love Will here and I just. Yeah read this read it nowwww

[annaphoenix1994]

Ch.102 - Watch Em Ride Away

Previous Chapter - Masterlist - Next Chapter

Simon and Baler set out on the final cattle drive of the year with Kiera's father, Soap, and Teeter.

August 26th

"How long are we supposed to be out again?" Baler asked as he adjusted his chaps before mounting his horse - a horse that he had grown to love and learn from with consistent riding lessons from Kiera since spring. 

"About four days," Simon huffed, he too adjusting his chaps. "Did you get your sleeping bag to put on your saddle?" 

"Yes. Is Soap coming with us?"

"Unfortunately." 

"I feel the love, L.T.," Soap snickered from the back of his horse, turning the ballcap backwards on his head to prevent it from flying off, he and Simon being the only two men who preferred to wear a regular baseball cap instead of a cowboy hat. Soap didn't like wearing one because he felt silly where, in quote, he "wasn't a true American cowboy" while Simon didn't like wearing one because he just preferred to wear a regular hat. 

Although Simon liked seeing Kiera wear a cowboy hat. God, I wish she was coming with us.

"Face it, you'd be upset if Teeter and I weren't coming with you." Soap continued. 

"Just don't be running off to play bloody Big Chief when we have work to do." Simon huffed.

"Hey, we in the perfect area to play Big Chief!" Teeter chimed.

"What's Big Chief?" Baler asked, his brows furrowed. 

"Don't even ask." 

"I have a feeling I shouldn't have asked in the first place." 

"You're catching on quick, lad." Simon scoffed, ensuring Baler mounted his horse before Simon did, Kiera catching him before he was able to put his foot in the stirrup. 

"It's going to be a long four days without my boys at home." Kiera frowned, Evie bouncing on her hip. 

Simon couldn't help but smile when he closed the gap between them, his horse standing loyally in place without moving a step forward to follow his rider, "I know, love. Consider it as a little vacation from us," He chuckled. "Those four days will go by quick." 

"I doubt that, babe," She smiled, letting him close the gap between them further to place a kiss to her lips. "I don't like when my boys aren't coming home every night for dinner." 

"We'll be back before you know it, love," He assured her. "Maybe we'll get lucky and come back a day early." 

"Eh, you're driving cattle with my dad, you'll be out a day later for sure." She teased. 

"You're probably right," He smirked. "We'll see you when we get back. I love you." 

"I love you too." 

"Kiera, sweetheart, he's not going off to war," Bud chimed in, the collar of his coat blocking his bare neck from the early-morning wind. "He's just driving cattle to the far pasture for the fall." 

"Daddy, you're just jealous because I didn't tell you I loved you first." Kiera giggled, amused at how his face flushed with a warm smile behind his thick mustache.

"You know me so well, sweetheart." 

"You all take care of each other, alright? There's a big day coming up in a couple of months and I need you all in one piece!" She giggled. 

"Wouldn't miss it for the world, honey. That's why I'm not getting off of my horse for anything unless it's to sleep on my raggedy old sleepin' bag." 

"So that's why you wanted Baler to come along?" 

"Gotta teach the youngin's since it's easier for them to get on and off their horse!" Bud laughed. "It's hard on an old man's bones gettin' on and off his horse all the time!" 

"See, love? There's a reason for everything!" Simon snickered, sneaking another kiss from Kiera before he mounted his horse. "You sure you have another ride in you, old man?" 

Bud raised his brows playfully before standing up in his saddle, "I'll race your ass to the top!" 

"I'll take your bet on that." Simon chuckled, nodding his head for Baler to ride in front of him so that he could ride alongside Soap and Teeter. 

Bud chuckled, "Alright, we're gonna push 'em up to Mount Shasta, then hold them overnight at Lick Creek. It's gonna be empty stomachs and cold backs for a few days," He announced. "Yeehaw." 

The group chuckled softly, each fighting the urge to fall back to sleep with an occasional yawn.

"You might want to hold on, Baler!" Kiera shouted once the men rode past the main gate leading towards the valley that held the herd of cattle. 

"What did you say, momma?" Baler shouted back, gasping when he watched Simon and Bud nudge their horses into a competitive gallop, Soap and Teeter following suit before Baler's horse began to pick up speed. 

"They weren't lying when they said they'd race each other!" Kiera replied, seeing that Baler was too far away for him to hear her warning. "Well, I guess he'll find out," She said to Evie, waiting for the day that her own children understood her. "You look hungry - let's go get you and your brother some breakfast, huh?" She smiled at Evie before placing a kiss to the baby's forehead. "You owe your grandma some morning cuddles, too. Jacob isn't a fan of grandma's morning cuddles." 

Kiera walked peacefully back to the lodge, Kimber staying at a slow pace alongside her owner as they made their way back to the lodge - the lodge being Kiera's home-away-from-home for the next four days, keeping her own mother company as well as hating the thought of coming home to an empty house that she had worked so hard to fill with life. "I'm surprised you didn't watch them ride off into the sunset like in the spring, momma." Kiera poked after she entered the lodge, smelling cinnamon from the kitchen.

"You know it breaks my heart to watch them ride off into the sunrise," Eva smiled. "If it doesn't make you cry to watch them ride away, then you probably shouldn't have a cowboy." 

Kiera nodded in agreement, "I wanted to cry, but I fought so hard to keep those tears in." 

"I know, sweetheart. It's too early in the mornin' to cry," She smiled. "They're watching over each other. It makes your dad so happy to be able to do this every year. I just know he hates that you couldn't go with him like you did in the spring." 

"I know. There's no place I'd rather be than riding alongside my dad and future husband listening to them banter back and forth." She giggled. 

"You've always been daddy's little girl. It broke his heart to give Simon permission to propose to you, but he told me later that night that he sees Simon as a son of his." 

"I'm glad, momma. I knew daddy would love him after he warmed up to him." 

"That he did. He speaks highly of him." 

Kiera hummed, setting Evie in the high chair close to the kitchen islander to free her hands before helping her mother with making breakfast for the pair of them, "And to think I'd never see the day where Simon would be willing to ride a horse and actually work cattle." 

"He hadn't done it before?" 

"Not that I know of." 

"He's a natural at it. Him and Johnny both," Eva smiled. "What do you want for breakfast, sweetheart?" 

"Whatever you're making. Jacob and Evie love eating scrambled eggs lately. I'm going to go wash up and help you." 

"No need, sweetheart. You just being here to keep me company is good for me." 

[links-in-time]

Link Fanfic - The Beginning of Something

Part 6

The midday sun rose over Hyrule. As the group of Link's and their new companion neared the Lanayru wetlands, they could make out the glittering reflections of the sun dancing across the shallow waters. Wild held up his Purah Pad to take a photo of the scenery while the others took in the view.

"Everything here seems so big!" Four remarked. "And I don't want to hear how that's 'just because I'm small'!" He followed up in air-quotes. Some of the others chuckled and Twilight gave him a hearty thump on the back.

"Is that Hyrule castle?" Wind asked, pointing off to the north.

The others followed his gaze and Wild answered his question.

"Yeah that's the castle."

"Why does it look like that?" Wind added.

Indeed the castle looked rather odd, even precarious, situated at the top of a very tall column of rock rising out of the ground. An enormous pit surrounded the castle like an impenetrable moat and a thick fog hung around the base.

"That, is a long story," Wild sighed.

"What could do that?" Hyrule asked, shielding his eyes against the sun with his hand.

"Ganon did that," Maari replied. "That's where the upheaval started. They say the castle rose into the air, debris rained down upon Castle Town. The chasms opened all over Hyrule and the sky islands appeared overhead. It was a catastrophe."

"I remember how strange it was when the portals opened to the other eras in my Hyrule," Warriors mused, almost talking to himself. "It felt like the time lines were crashing into each other. That castle kind or reminds me of that. Everything out of place and nothing as it should be."

They continued down the hill until they reached the start of the wetlands. Four and Sky complained of hunger so they all decided to set down for a quick lunch. At the edge of a shallow pool surrounded by silver birch trees, the gang spread out to eat. Cheese and bread was sliced up and handed out. Apples were thrown from one to another until everyone had enough to eat. Despite the bright and peaceful afternoon, the conversation about the castle hung in the air.

"Is there anything still up there?" Legend asked. Time frowned at him. "What? Castles are always full of valuable stuff!"

"I don't know about that," Wild replied, taking a big bite of a shining red apple. "Wasn't much inside last time I was in there. Just monsters and rubble."

"Do you think there's still monsters in there now?" Sky asked.

"Don't see how they would get up there. I had to fly in from above to get in last time."

"Paya says the research team set up a series or ropes and ladders to get up and down." Maari spoke up, swallowing a moutfull of crumbly cheese. The others turned to listen. "Purah wanted to help Zelda get more books out of the library but they needed a safer way in than 'flying in from above.' So they built some ladders."

"That doesn't sound safe," Twilight commented, turning back to look at the castle.

"Doesn't sound monster friendly either, doubt there's anything living in there anymore," Warriors concluded.

"Though I hear Castle Town is booming again. Lasil says she does a roaring trade in plumbs during the season." Maari told them.

"Well we're going to need someplace to stay the night. I'm sure we could bear one more night at an Inn," Time suggested, pretending to grumble as though this was some terrible hardship. The others laughed and Wind actually did a fist pump.

"Alright, pack up and let's get moving lads. Er and... Lases..." Warriors stumbled over his words as he looked over at Maari. "Let's get moving."

As Maari got to her feet she fell into step with Four and Sky.

"Is he always like that?" She asked.

"Who?" Four asked, still working on his apple core.

"The Captain," Maari replied.

"Oh Wars. Is he always like what?"

"I don't know, shy. Stumbling over his words," Maari clarified for them.

"Haha!" Sky laughed, clutching his stomach.

"What my eloquent friend is trying to say is, no, Wars isn't always like that. He's quite a straightforward guy, though he's had to deal with a lot of pressure. Not that the rest of us haven't. But his was thrust upon him quite suddenly and he was hardly experienced with leadership."

"But he seems to take to it so naturally," Maari observed, watching Warriors scarf sway behind him as he walked.

"Yeah, he's a natural leader but the pressure of being responsible for people's lives tends to get to him. Perhaps more than some of us." Sky added, catching Maari's eye.

"I understand your nicknames for each other come from your adventures. So what's his about?"

"Warriors, or Wars, was kind of due to the fact that his Hyrule was literally at war with monsters and vilians. He lead armies and fought battles. In a large scale fight there's no better stratagist." Four explained. "But don't tell him I said that, his head will grow two sizes!"

Sky chucked and Maari smiled at the joke. But she couldn't help but wonder at the nervous demeanour the Captain had around her, verses the one he put on around his companions.

The rest of their journey across Hyrule field was fairly uneventful. Wild wanted to stop at the wetland stable and ask around for any monster sightings. But other than a few uncertain glimpses, no one had seen much trouble. They crossed the bridge into Central Hyrule and approached Castle Town along the road.

They were greeted first by the guards standing outside the gates of Hyrule Landing. Link recognised them and they were happy to let the group pass. The wooden fortress had expanded since Wild's last visit and there were Hylians, Gorons, Gerudo, and Rito everywhere. People pulling waggons of produce, unloading building materials, stabling horses, or heading for the main gates to Castle Town.

Maari had never seen so many people from all over the regions of Hyrule all in one place. It was a riot of colour, sound and smells. The scent of food drifted over the crowd, enticing weary travellers towards the nearest bakeries, Inns and eating houses. Despite not long having had lunch, Maari wanted to try every new food her rupees could buy. Time was keen for everyone to stay together and physically grasped Legend by the scruff of his collar before he could hurry off towards the market.

"We need to stay together or we'll get lost. This place is new even to Wild, none of us knows our way around here." He advised sagely.

"I agree, though I would love to explore we do have a mission to stick to," Maari replied.

"Alright how about this, we split into two groups, one group looks for somewhere to spend the night. The other group investigates any monster activity?" Warriors suggested.

"Not a bad idea. We could save some time that way. How do we find each other again?" Time asked, rubbing his chin.

Before Warriors could make a suggestion however an excited call from somewhere in the crowd interrupted his train of thought.

"Linky!" A woman's high pitched voice cried above the general clamour of the fort.

"Linky?" Twilight asked, looking around.

"Brace yourselves," Wild uttered, though only those closest to him heard anything.

A young woman wearing Sheikah colours and an enormous pair of goggles on her head burst through the throng, her gaze falling on Maari and the group of young men.

"You're back!" The woman lunged towards Wild waving a device in his face. "Didn't you receive my messages? I've been trying to contact you for a week now. It was almost like you fell off the face of the earth!"

"Well, actually Purah..." Wild signed, turning awkwardly to face the others.

"And who are these people?" The young woman asked, apparently noticing the rest of the group for the first time. "No wait..."

She held up a hand to halt any response then began to closely examine each of the boys. She occasionally wafted her small machine over them and appeared to be occasionally taking pictures.

"Hmm. Same temporal aura. Presence of the energy of the Master Sword in six, no, seven! This is incredible Link! Are you aware that these people are all incarnations of the Heroes Spirit?" Purah asked, eyes so wide Maari was afraid they might fly out of her head.

The others exchanged amused glances before Wild continued signing.

"Purah, this is the Chain. Yes they are all incarnations of the hero. What do you mean you tried to message me?"

"Oh that? I made some more Purah Pads and I sent some upgrades to your device so we could send messages to each other. Where have you been Linky?" She asked, gesticulating wildly. Had Wind been a few inches taller he might have been smacked in the face.

"Perhaps we could go somewhere else to talk?" Wild replied, eyes darting around at the small crowd they had drawn with Purah's outburst.

"Yes, let me show you my new lab!"

Purah's lab was situated on the north west side of town, near what used to be the moat. Upon closer inspection it turned out that a large portion of the building had been added onto the newly built stone, which hung over the edge of the chasm. Maari wondered at the safety and stability of such a structure, however Purah strode through the front door with no sign of hesitance.

"Josha! I'm back! And I brought guests!" Purah shouted, cupping her hands around her mouth for added volume.

Maari was half afraid the building might shake around them from all her noise. However, once inside the laboratory she was distracted by everything she could see around her. The walls were plastered with scribbled notes and what looked like detailed drawings and blueprints. Every avaliable work surface was littered with gadgets and gizmos, or parts for making gadgets and gizmos. Bits of machinery hung from the rafters, while dangling coloured lenses refracted the afternoon light around the room.

It was a bit of a squeeze to get everyone inside despite the spacious room, since every inch of avaliable floor space was pretty much occupied. There was just enough room to squeeze around all of Purah's mechanical projects for the group to stand together. Legend itched to touch something. He didn't care what, he just watched to touch something and make something happen. As though reading his mind Twilight placed both his hands on the Vet's shoulders, holding him ever so gently.

A sudden ruckus from upstairs drew the groups attention to the stairs which were almost camouflaged at the back of the room.

"Guests? What guests?" A woman's voice, who Maari assumed was Josha, echoed down the stairs.

A young woman appeared, also wearing Sheikah clothing and red glasses, though she was covered in colourful stains. Her eyes spotted Wild among the others and she beamed at him

"Oh Link you're back, it's so good to see you!" She exclaimed and it was clear she wanted to rush forward and hug him, however the clutter of the room prevented her. "Who are your friends?"

"Other heroes from other points in time, oh also a Sheikah warrior but I didn't ask about her. Anyway, Josha, did you hear back from the Sargent yet?" Purah explained, hardly pausing for breath.

"From another time? Really?" Josha asked, clearly amazed by this new information. However Purah was not about to let it sink in so easily.

"Josha focus, we can discuss this phenomenon later. Right now they might be able to help us with our problem." Purah snapped her fingers to get Josha's attention.

"Oh right yes, our problem," she said a little meakly.

"What problem is this?" Maari asked.

"The research team has been pulling artifacts out of the castle for weeks now. Sending them all over Hyrule to be preserved and studied. Zelda doesn't want a repeat of past generations where valuable information was lost after a battle with the Demon King." Purah began to explain, twirling her gadget in her hand.

"But two days ago three researchers went missing inside the castle." Josha continued, "Others have been in to look for them but they found no sign, only their abandoned equipment."

"If I could get some of my new equipment up and running I could scan the castle for heat signals, but I'm struggling to get parts from Robbie right now. Old codger keeps ignoring my calls," Purah grumbled.

"They could be lost in the tunnels?" Wild suggested.

"A team searched some of the underground chambers you told us about but there was no sign that they had been used recently. They have to be in the castle somewhere. But it's a maze and still quite dangerous. I know your memory is still a bit hazy, but you know the castle better than most. I was hoping you and maybe some of your companions might be willing to go rescue our missing Hylians."

Wild considered for a moment and Time shot him a glance. Wild nodded in response.

"We're on our way to find Zelda," Time said, speaking to Purah. "We didn't expect to stay here too long."

"However, if there's folks in danger, we're hardly gonna turn away," Twilight added.

"Exactly. I doubt all of us need to go. But Wild you could lead a small party, perhaps four of you?" Time suggested.

Wild nodded.

"Alright then that's settled. We'll help you find your missing people," Time assured Purah.

"Excellent!" She beamed, holding two fingers to her left eye. None of the others had any clue what the gesture meant so they just smiled. "Josha can take you to the barracks to see the Sargent. Good luck heroes!"

Without further ceremony, the group was shuffled out the door and marched along the street towards the central square.

"The Sargent is in the guards chamber up at the first gatehouse. Tell him Purah sent you and he'll sort you all out. Please be careful and do bring those people back." Josha instructed them before turning on her heels and heading back in the direction of the lab.

As they walked through the castle gates Wild couldn't help but remember the last time he had approached the castle. Alone, master sword in hand and the weight of the world on his shoulders. Now that weight was shared and the threat lay far away. Still, the castle high above their heads triggered more recent memories that he would be glad to forget. Before they reached the guard chamber, Time and Warriors were figuring out who would go up and search for the researchers. It had already been decided that Wild and Warriors would go, then it was just a matter of the other two.

"I'll go," Sky volunteered, raising a hand as they walked.

"You sure?" Time asked.

"Yeah, besides, who's better with heights than me?!"

"Alright, any other volunteers?" Warriors asked, scanning around for any more hands.

"I'll go," Maari said, a little quieter than she intended. She cleared her throat and spoke again "I'll go."

"Really?" Wild asked, raising an eyebrow. "You wanna go up there?" He jerked a thumb in the direction of the castle.

"I don't see why not. I've got keen senses and I'm a good tracker. I can protect myself and I can walk around almost unnoticed if I want to. If there's trouble waiting up there I can handle it." She stated, feeling a little offended at having to defend herself.

"Time?" Wild looked to the elder hero.

"Hey, don't look at me. She's not one of mine!" Time joked, gesturing at the rest of the boys. "I'm not responsible for her choices. If there's no other volunteers then I say she can go."

"Alright then, we'll get the situation report from the Sargent then the four of us will get moving." Wild shrugged, continuing up the path.

At last they rounded a bend and the great stone building that was the guards chambers stood before them. There were a few soldiers standing around outside and a few walking here and there. When Wild went to ask about the whereabouts of the Sargent they were directed to a large tent on the other side of the path.

"Ah Link! Good to see you back. Has Purah sent you to help us?" The Sargent asked.

Link quickly explained the situation and how four of them had volunteered to search the castle for the missing researchers. The Sargent was more than greatful for the help and that Link would be leading the team himself. He offered the rest of the group lodgings in the guards quarters and asked if they wouldn't mind helping with a few other tasks. Of course they leapt at the offer and set off where they were directed. Time hung back however to talk to the four volunteers.

"I want you four to be careful up there. Something about this seems off to me. In my experience people don't just vanish for no reason."

"Noted," Warriors responded with a nod. "Alright let's get moving."

The Sargent showed Wild and the others to where the ladders and pully system had been set up to access the castle. At the top of the gate beside the guard chamber a series of ropes connected to a doorway in the side of the rockface. Maari looked up at the rope ladders with trepidation. She wasn't afraid of heights, but she felt a little uncomfortable about possibly falling hundreds of feet into what looked like a bottomless pit.

Sky elected to go first, followed by Wild, then Maari, with Warriors bringing up the rear. Just as Maari feared the rope ladder swayed as she took her first step. It didn't move half as much as she expected it to and she waited until Wild was at the top before beginning her ascent.

"You okay?" Wars asked, though he tried not to sound patronising.

"Yeah, I'm fine. Just you know..." She glanced down at the chasm and Wars followed her gaze.

"Yeah, I get it. Trust me!"

Without further ado, Maari scaled the ladder and soon found herself grabbing the hand Wild held out for her.

"Thank you," she breathed as she stepped forward into the passageway they found themselves in.

Warriors wasn't too far behind her and the four of them waisted little time in setting off through the lower levels of the castle.

The Sargent had informed them that the research team was supposed to be collecting documents from Zelda's study and anything that might have been left behind in the library. Therefore another split was dreamed necessary if they were to search the castle before nightfall.

Wild took Sky to find Zelda's study and gave Warriors and Maari specific instructions on how to reach the library. Including a short cut back to where they had started if they ran into any fallen debris blocking their path.

< Part 5 : Part 7 >

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 4: Awaiting Bloom

Narrated by Luming.

Narrator: The cake shop is already gone by the time I come back to the riverside, my only companions being the stars shining in the night sky.

Narrator: Even without the fish lantern, the water still glimmers from the rows of lanterns dangling along the streets.

Narrator: I spot the alga in a corner by the riverbank.

Narrator: The New Year's night air chills to the bone, but the alga stretches far to poke itself out of the water and look for its friend.

Narrator: I see, in the Lantern of Wishes, how the alga has waited for the goldfish year after year just like that, longing for its return.

Narrator: I bet the alga is going to feel really upset if the goldfish can't make it, right?

Narrator: When I open the bag that holds the goldfish, it comes jumping out of the bag and into the water. The goldfish has made it.

Narrator: The goldfish wasn't looking well because it'd been staying in the bag for a long time.

Narrator: As soon as it has landed in the water, the goldfish breathes as hard as it can and circles around the alga.

Narrator: The goldfish is trying to explain to its friend why it came late, how much it has missed it, and how happy it is seeing it.

Narrator: The alga moves with the ripples, its leaves touching upon the goldfish's scales ever so gently. The goldfish leans against the alga, seemingly feeling at ease.

Choose "They finally meet again."

You: It's great that they finally meet again.

Luming: I feel really happy for them, too.

Luming: I love stories with happy endings, but I understand that not every wish comes true, and that not all old friends get to see each other again.

Luming: Now that we're here in Miraland, there is something I want to do to make up for a past regret.

Narrator: The night breeze skims the water under the twilight, dispersing reflections and sending gentle ripples over the surface.

Narrator: I lift my head and suddenly notice that the fish lanterns have been arranged into groups, as if they were swimming across a canvas of starry sky.

Narrator: I think I've seen this before in my dream.

Narrator: They used to be Qin Yi's pet goldfish. They all left him eventually, though, and I wonder if he ever felt sad about it.

Narrator: But the New Year would only be a happy one if he is happy.

Luming: And I wish you a happy New Year, too, [Your Name].

Choose "I'm sure it's going to be a great year for me."

You: I'm sure it's going to be a great year for me, and I'm sure your wishes will come true. Happy New Year, Luming.

Luming: Happy New Year, [Your Name].

Luming: Look, there are still lights up ahead. I wonder if the street opera performance has ended. Since we have granted the goldfish's wish, let's go enjoy the festival.

You: Alright.

--

Narrated by no one.

Narrator: The lively crowd and the sound of music are not far ahead. Luming and his friend enter a buzzing ocean of lights.

Narrator: Just a few moments ago, when Luming passed by carrying the bag with the goldfish, the melodies of Remembrance of Dreams could be heard through the streets.

Narrator: Curtain drapes are drawn as opera music envelops the audience. Goldfish swim to-and-fro along the stage. The scene is as beautiful as a dream.

Qin Yi: Gone are the good old days... Our love was such but it will never come back...

Narrator: Luming halts in his tracks to the singing. He looks toward the stage just as a fishbowl is smashed into pieces on the carpet amidst the height of tension. The goldfish flails frantically on the thick carpet, desperate for water.

Narrator: Qin Yi notices the young lad in the crowd. Amid the crowd, only his eyes are shining vividly.

Narrator: But Luming stops for only a moment, for he has an important wish to grant.

Qin Yi: I hold no more grudge... For the world is mine for the taking...

Narrator: When the music ends, Qin Yi walks off the stage in a sea of cheers and applause.

Narrator: And gone are the souls, every last one of them, leaving the drip drop of water chilling to the bone.

Yueniang: What happened? Was there something wrong with the music?

Narrator: Qin Yi gives him an ambiguous smile and shakes his head. He looks toward the direction of the young boy, but he is nowhere to be seen.

Qin Yi: It's nothing. I just saw a goldfish.

Yueniang: Huh?

Qin Yi: Another year went by.

Yueniang: ...

Qin Yi: And it is the time that flowers blossom again.

Narrator: Qin Yi is deep in thought, as he always does when New Year comes around. He recalls having seen the young man below the stage before.

Narrator: When Qin Yi looked off the stage at Luming just now, Luming lowers his head to look at the goldfish in the bag in his hand, since it was jumping up and down.

Narrator: Their lines of sight nearly meet, but both their eyes are gleaming with light.

Narrator: At the edge of the stage, flowers blossom on a tree.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

[nostalgia-tblr]

Odin's Shit Plan: The Shittening

[Setting: Jotunheim, shortly after the sudden unexpected death of King Lauffey]

"Right everyone, thanks for coming, nice to see you all here. Now, I initially called this informal gathering to discuss what we should do about this power vaccuum we're in following the death of King Lauffey (RIP, Press F To Pay Respect) for which we lack both precedent and contingency plan, and I know it had been suggested by a few of you that we could maybe get all the nobility in one place to consider the claims of the candidates who have said they'd quite like to be king now, and maybe we could vote on that in some way and then afterwards we could get pizza in to celebrate our successful ending of this troubling and potentially disasterous interregnum?

"But... Right, do you guys remember when Lauffey had that kid? And he was a bit small when he was born so the king was like yeah I'm not keen on this one I think I'll just infanticide him and a few of us said it seemed like chucking away your only legitimate male heir - and indeed, as it has turned out, his only possible heir of any kind at all - might not be the best idea and he was like don't be thick lads he's TINY what use is an otherwise healthy legitimate male heir to a king who has no other children and whose kingdom has no idea what to do if he still lacks one when he dies? And so he just went out and left him in that building to die? Yeah?

Well! You might find this a bit hard to believe at first, but that wee runt was actually found and taken in by Odin of Asgard! Who you might know better as "THAT BASTARD," the current leader of our traditional enemy who himself killed quite a few of us during that war. Anyway, he still has that boy! He's a lot taller now but still tiny to giants like us and he's not blue most of the time but he is if you put him in a fridge for long enough, and okay he's been raised to hate us by a rival king who seems to have designs on our own lovely icy kingdom, and presumably he's loyal to Odin and he's never been here and knows nothing of our culture or our language or our... anything, really. BUT, as I said he's definitely Lauffey's actual rejected son and what could be better than that, right? Anyway we can discuss this again after lunch but the lad's a shoo-in for the job as far as I'm concerned."