#a feat previously thought impossible

[supernaturalistthings]

Jealousy

Dean Winchester x Female!Reader

Warnings: +18 contains smut

Summary: One night in a run down bar Dean Winchester has no choice but to reveal his true feelings

You could feel an intense gaze on you from across the bar as the influence of alcohol starts moving your hips for you. The bass of the music moves through you as you dance to the song booming through the bar. Your hands floating over your body as you move to the beat flawlessly thanks to the drinks you already had in your system. You feel the gazes mounting and thankfully so as you look up and see a small blonde next to Dean desperately trying to pull him into conversation and pull his eyes away from the girl of his dreams. 

In that moment it was an impossible feat, all Dean could focus on was the sway of your hips, how your hands roamed over your clothed curves gathering the attention of anyone with a pulse and eyes. His hands clenched his beer while the tone of the blonde standing next to him gets blurred into the music and he starts to notice how many eyes are on you. The girl dancing, his girl dancing. He excuses himself without even looking in the direction of the blonde next to him and starts to shimmy his way through people to get to you.

His breath is caught in his chest as he finally reaches you holding out a hand to stall you in your place from dancing to the song booming throughout the bar. He looks cold into your eyes and firmly says

“Lets go”

“Where?” you reply

“Anywhere but here”

“Thought you were busy” You say scanning over the bar looking for the girl that was previously trying to get Dean's attention, as Dean grabs your arm and starts dragging you towards the exit.

“Busy trying to get your attention, but clearly plan A failed. B it is i guess.” He says gruffly and without a glance, as the cold air of the night spreads over you and the bar door slams shut behind the both of you. Dean is still dragging you along the way. However his hand moves from your forearm to your hand. He's gripping you tight as you start to walk upon the 67 Chevy impala.

He flings open the passenger door and guides you in with an air of annoyance. You watch as he walks back to the driver side through the windshield, he flings his door open and slides in. The silence is tense and can be cut with a knife as the engine roars to life and he speedily pulls out of the bar parking lot.

“You started this” you say finally cutting the tension without taking your eyes off the road speeding beneath the car

He shoots a glare over and readjusts his grip on the steering wheel

“Yeah well I'm finishing it too..” He shoots back without tearing his eyes from the road. “I'm tired of this game… you're mine, I'm going to give you a reason to start acting like it.” His knuckles tighten on the wheel, and the gas slightly accelerates.

Your mouth goes slightly aghast as you take in his side profile. As you take in him. Dean claimed that you both not being officially together was something created for your own safety. That he couldn't chance losing you but right now that didn't matter. You could tell by the grip he had on the steering wheel and the shade of green his eyes were. You belonged together, and in this moment more than ever. 

The car slows to a stall and the engine abruptly shuts off when you’re finally broken from your thoughts and feel your door open. You turn and see Dean waiting with his hand out for you to take. The annoyance has mostly left his face and all that is left is desperation. You slowly reach for his hand and he lifts you out of your seat and shuts the car door behind you as you both walk hand in hand to his motel room. No dragging, no annoyance, all of that was left at the bar.

He messes with the key for a second and the door opens and you both step inside and the instant it's closed and you can feel the hardness of it pressed against your back. Dean has his hands firmly on your shoulders holding you against it. Your breathless staring into eachothers eyes as he hesitantly leans forward and presses his lips to yours in a way you haven't felt before. It was passionate, tender, dare you say loving. His hands slide up the sides of your neck and tangle in your hair as the room is filled with soft moans and the slight sound of your hips moving back and forth from the door as you press against him.

He reaches for your thighs and pulls you up to straddle his waist. One hand stays on your thigh after you lock your legs around him and one travels around your waist, holding you as he crosses the room to the bed. He holds you as he leans over and gently lays you on the bed. The kiss never breaking. His arms cage you as he kisses you from above and it feels heavenly. He pulls back and his eyes flutter open and breathlessly whispers 

“You're mine…and I'm yours, and that's just the way it's going to be from now on” he softly brushes his fingers along your cheek and into your hair looking deeply into your eyes. The way he looked at you spoke everything you had been dying to hear. You cross your arms around his neck and bring him in for another kiss and then stopping again to answer 

“Sounds good to me”

He smiles brightly and seals the space between the two of you once again. He reaches for the hem of your shirt and you lift yourself slightly so he can pull it over your head. He tosses it to the floor and runs his hand down your torso cupping and pulling at your bra while stabilizing himself with his other hand.

You run your hands over his bare chest and stomach before toying with the waistband of his jeans. He takes over and slides them down and kicks them off somewhere. You're both breathless and desperate to feel every inch of each other. The kiss is feverish. Intoxicating.

He rolls you both over so you're on top, he pulls at every curve on your body. He leaves wet kisses all over your collarbone and chest while he easily undos your bra and it joins the rest of your clothes on the floor. His hands are everywhere, over your chest, around your thighs. He slips his hands into your pants and cups your ass and rocks your hips against his. You grab the waist band and roll them off of you having to stop straddling him to do so and the second they are stripped from your body you're pulled right back into his strong arms. You're wearing nothing but your underwear when he breathlessly breaks the kiss when he says,

“You're so beautiful”

It’s whispered so delicately against your lips, and you savor every syllable. Your eyes flutter closed and your lips reconnect as he lays you down with himself between your legs. He runs his hand between the small space between your bodies and to where you need him most. He can feel a slight wetness seeping through your panties and says 

“You're still wearing to many clothes”

He rubs small circles over your clothed clit. You're a mess with your head thrown back and moaning like crazy. Deans watching your face contort in pleasure and he can't help but feel proud of himself knowing he can make you feel better than any other man. He finally slides your panties down your legs and playfully throws them as far as he can. He's smirking and his thoughts are swimming when he reconnects your lips with his. He is full of passion and hoping that any fraction of what he's feeling is being conveyed through his kiss and his touch. 

His hands are running down your body and so is his mouth, leaving a trail of wet kisses and soft marks behind. You're his now. He places his mouth over your wetness and makes love with his tongue. Licking and kissing until one of your hands is running through his hair and the other is gripping the sheets for dear life. His name drops like hymns from your lips and it only fuels him to get you to the brink.

“You taste amazing" he looks up and says. He fully takes in your state. How desperate you are for him and it hits him even harder that he is the only man he ever wants you to look at like that.

He crawls up the length of your body and deeply looks into your eyes before leaning in and kissing you. You’re breathless and you take him into your hands and start pumping. You’re moaning into eachothers mouths. Dean feels euphoric. Between his feelings and the way you actually feel, he’s high. He takes himself from you and teases your entrance before fully inserting himself inside you. Both of your foreheads connect and his eyes are squeezed shut from the tightness. He kisses you softly and pulls away for fear he might not be able to breathe.

You're looking into eachothers eyes, the only illumination being the lights from outside seeping through the cracks in the motel curtain. He's never looked so beautiful. 

“You're gorgeous” you say, it being the only thing you can conjure at the moment.

He smiles softly still maintaining eye contact and even in the dark you can see color tinge his cheeks. He couldn't comprehend this was real. He starts moving slowly in response. Thrusting in and out. The heat and sweat is mounting between the two of you. You're both moaning messes. Each other's names falling from both your lips in praise.

Your back is arched and you're leaving marks on his shoulder from how hard you're gripping him. His thrusts become sloppy from just how amazing he feels, how you're making him feel. 

The tension in your stomach is building and you don't know how much longer you can take it when suddenly you cant anymore. You cum hard around him, squeezing every inch of him as he thrusts in and out. His own undoing building. He's thrusting deep and grunting hard when you then feel him spilling out of you. You're both moaning and looking deeply into eachothers eyes. He slows his pace to almost nothing and you're lost in eachothers eyes for good you must think, and don't mind either. He cuts the silence by saying, 

“I guess I should've done that sooner” still above you and caging you in with his strong arms. He lifts one to start soothing your messy hair and it results in a giggle from you.

“Better late than never” you say in a more serious tone and lean up to give him a peck on the lips. You feel him smile into the kiss and your mind is swimming knowing there will be plenty more to come in the future.

[escapingrealtiylovinginsanity]

Will Halstead: Insecurity 

Trigger Warning: Mentions of body issues. Minimal NSFW content  

Emotional healing isn’t linear. It is strange how one simple unintentional sentence can bring back so much insecurity. Issues that you were certain you had worked through back again to raise their ugly head. You hadn’t thought about your body insecurity in years. Will Halstead had been your boyfriend for over a year, and he had never once made you feel anything but desirable. The man was a giver, and your body was always well-loved and worked by the time he was finished with you. 

It had been early morning. You were naked still wrapped in cooling sheets after a night of lovemaking. Will climbed over top of you in his running gear kissing your lips in a farewell kiss. You had grabbed him, nuzzling into his neck, trying to get him to stay and curl back in bed with you. He had chuckled good naturally, “You could always come for a run with me, get your cardio in a different way.” His tone was natural and teasing as he pressed one more lingering kiss to your lips. It didn’t stop the almost unrecognizable tightening of your skin as if it had shrunk a size and was now suffocating you. He missed your awkward shifting as you pulled the blankets higher now feeling strangely exposed to a man who had loved every inch of your skin just a few hours prior.  

He had smiled at you warmly, unaware of the havoc his words would cause. He made no mention of your body, or that you need to change any part of your body. It didn’t stop the old thoughts from running ramped. What had he really meant? Was it a hint that he wanted you to start watching your weight? Did he have some unspoken reservations about your body, the extra pounds that you had undoubtedly put on since the two of you had gotten together?  

Reason had left the building along with Will for his morning run. The more you roominated the wilder your thoughts got and the more they spiraled. Had Will felt like this for longer than you had realized and just too polite to say anything? It might have been a plausible thought had he ever given any other real indication that he felt that way.

He hadn’t.  

You know every girl has had issues with their body at some point in their life. Yours weren’t notably bad. Honestly, they were probably more common than not. By the time that Will had come back, you had locked it down hard.  

Unfortunately, that didn’t mean that you didn’t reap the fallout. You fell back into bad habits. When you had previously had issues with your body you had simply and excessively covered yourself in baggy oversized clothes, not allowing others to be able to see you. An easy feat when you were single in high school or college; it was an almost unnoticeable change, especially during the bitter cold winters. It was however much harder, nearly impossible when you were in a long-term relationship and living with your partner. 

Will had come home flushed and sweaty and all kinds of your perfect delectable. You would normally jump at the chance to join him in the shower. Instead, you pull the blanket tighter around you and settle deeper into the couch. Will takes the dismissal of joining him in stride and curls up on the couch with you damp and warm from his shower to marathon TV on a lazy Sunday off. 

The next two weeks you continue feeling uncomfortable in your skin. It isn’t encompassing but it is lingering. It’s baggy clothes and avoiding mirrors. You also haven’t had sex in that time. It was practically unheard of for you and Will to go that long without not that he hadn’t tried to initiate it. Your redirects and refusals were taken with grace and no fuss. He was a gentleman about it, but you knew that he was getting concerned by the abrupt change when he was used to you constantly trying to climb him like a tree. 

It comes to a head that weekend. Will had got home from a late shift and you were half asleep in one of his shirts and nothing else. His scent had lingered on it. A mix of his cologne and natural musk. It was the best cure for a sleepless night and empty bed that you had found. His smile was tired but genuine. You could tell that he had a good day at work. He had pulled you onto his lap and kissed you deeply and slowly.  

You had returned the kiss sleepily and with fever. You felt him hard in his pants as you started to unconsciously rock against him. Your fingers tangle in his curls as he starts to plant kisses on your jaw and down your neck to your collarbone. His hands find your waist as he pulls you firmer against him his clothed length pressing against your wet core. Arousal alights through your body, your mind blissfully blank. It’s not until his dexterous fingers start undoing the top two buttons that the uncomfortable twinge of body insecurity returns. 

You tried to ignore it. Just enjoy the sensations that Will was providing you. The scrape of the stubble of his beard on your breasts as he gets enough buttons open to latch onto a nipple into his hot mouth and circle it with a tongue. It sends white-hot pleasure down to your core, but it isn’t enough to turn off your brain like you had hoped. His fingers went for another button, and you stopped him. “Uh, I want to leave it on.” You try to pull it off as a sexy thing, but you know he doesn’t buy it. His expression held concern and his gaze was searching. 

“Yeah, okay sweetheart.” He leans in for another kiss, but you are distracted now. Even with his passionate hot open mouth kisses and talented fingers, you can’t focus on him. Your body had cooled, and your mind was wandering in directions that made you feel unattractive and doused your sex drive. Will was an observant man and caught onto your lack of interest quickly. His hand that was weaved into your hair tugged gently pulling you back so he could look at you. His brown eyes warm and resigned, “If you're not in the mood to do anything, we don’t have to. You know that, right?” His other hand came up to stroke your cheek. 

“I know, it's not that.” You sigh and groan leaning forward to rest your forehead against his chin the scruff of his beard catching and pulling at your hair. You didn’t know what else to say about it. 

“Talk to me baby,” He eased you back again pressing his forehead against yours, “Something is going on with you and it has been for a while.” You shift back on his lap and run your hands down his arms, feeling the muscles under your fingertips. “Did I do something or-?” 

“No,” You object and press your hands against his chest, “I’m just having some... body issues right now.” You would never tell him his words were what caused the start of the spiral. They hadn’t been really; your brain had been twisting and turning them until they were altered from an innocent offer to a disgusting beast ravaging your head. You see the change in his brown eyes and cover his mouth with your hand before he can utter a word. “Don’t you dare go into Doctor Halstead mode on me. I don’t need to know the statistics, how common this is, or your medical opinion right now.” There was a silent pause in which his brown eyes were calculating. You saw the mischievous glint only seconds before he flipped you around underneath him. “Will,” You breathe in surprise.

“Shh, shh, shh,” He hushes you, returning to kiss your throat. “If you don’t want to hear a doctor’s opinion, you’re stuck hearing your boyfriends. And baby,” He gets the last three buttons of your shirt undone, “I have a lot to say about your gorgeous body.” He starts kissing his way down your chest towards your stomach. “Because all of this belongs to me. It will get the respect, love, and attention it deserves.” Will spends his time kissing affirmations into your skin. The tightness of your skin subsides with his touch and your body flushes pink with the praise. He teases you leaving a trail of beard burn from your shoulders to your ankles. Your body insecurity isn't gone but Will had effectively silenced it for the night.      

My first Chicago Med story and I had to try my hand at Will. Hope you guys enjoyed xoxo <3 

[nosferatini]

🕊️ The Season of Nightingales 🕊️

Chapter 31/36

Only 5 more chapters to go!

Summary

The Second Coming looms large. Supreme Archangel Aziraphale vows to fix Heaven without asking the impossible from Crowley. As their effort is complicated by unexpected friends, a guileful Metatron, and a Heavenly floor full of the Blessed Dead—Aziraphale and Crowley find navigating their relationship is not mutually exclusive from saving the world from Armageddon.

Chapter 31 - The Talk

Excerpt:

Crowley nestled himself into Aziraphale’s chair beside the desk. It might help, he thought, to put himself into the angel’s shoes, as this would be a bit more of a stretch than any feat he’d previously performed. But with Aziraphale having headed up without time to think or plan, it was Crowley’s best shot at protecting his angel’s mind. 

He closed his eyes, wrapped himself in the tartan throw blanket, and took a few deep breaths of the sandalwood fragrance that had saturated it. 

He blinked with more eyes than he’d used in six thousand years, allowing them to adjust to the celestial light as he peered through Aziraphale’s true form. There was a great deal of light at the moment, but all of a sudden, the view darkened significantly. 

Crowley blinked with Aziraphale’s eyes again, trying to absorb everything he saw. This deck was as vaguely familiar as deja vu.

As in, you don’t remember having been through it before, until you go through it again. 

*Ah,* Crowley thought , *it’s got a Confidentiality miracle on it. Of course it does.*

Read Chapter 31 on AO3!

Or…

🕊️ Start From the Beginning!🕊️

Huge hugs and gratitude to my beloved betas, @dbacklot99 @demonsandpieohmy @addledmongoose and u/blackjeans93 from @goodomensafterdark for helping me scrub and polish my beloved fic!

@whickberstreetwriters

[kakushino]

Like a Rookie

Rengoku Shinjuro x GN! Reader

Officer Rengoku is a regular in the coffee shop you work at.

Tags: fluff, flirting, modern AU, young police officer Shinjuro (thus OOC) Word count: 0,7k

Masterlist

AN: Written as birthday piece for Rengoku Shinjuro. He doesn't have an official birthday date, but I have accepted @/shinjuro-rengoku-ask's HC (23rd January).

Rengoku Shinjuro had many dreams in his life. When young, he had wanted to impress his father - an impossible feat, more so given the fact he passed away when Shinjuro was in his teen years. Afterwards, he wanted to make his mother happy - he spent hours striving towards that ideal, to be the son she could be proud of. He wanted to support his brother in achieving his own dreams. 

Sometimes, dreams were too grand a name for what he wanted. For example, now he wished to be rid of the newbie he was stuck with, but that was impossible, at least for the day, so he had to settle for wanting coffee. Call him unmanly but he enjoyed a good latte on any day.

“This has to be my favorite place to get coffee,” Shinjuro remarked to the newbie as they walked to the door. The queue was short and there wasn’t anyone sitting down; the duo would also take their coffees to-go, as they had to patrol the center just a few streets away. “It’s good and the service is…” he trailed off, catching sight of you as you served a tired student their coffee.

Another one of his wishes - for you to agree to a date with him. 

“Senpai?”

Shinjuro cleared his throat, annoyed for getting interrupted in his routine admiration of your person. “As I was saying, coffee is good.” He didn’t elaborate.

The line moved up, the newbie commenting on the muffin selection as Shinjuro tried to discreetly wipe his palms. It wouldn’t do to appear like an untried rookie when he talked to you. 

“Good morning, sir. What can I get for you today?” 

The way you called him sir did things to him - which he swiftly buried in the far corners of his mind as he ordered his usual latte, thoughts and senses filled with coffee.

“Sugar?” 

Shinjuro gave you an alluring smile and replied, “No, thank you. Your sweetness is all I need.” Your lips spread into a shy smile, eyes darting behind him as the last customer before them left before focusing on the police officer again. Officer Rengoku was sun incarnated - hot with blazing eyes to match his visage. He started flirting with you a few weeks ago, but you couldn’t reciprocate, as there were always other people around. Perhaps today would present an opportunity?

You went about making Shinjuro’s latte and his colleague’s americano; you really hoped he would drop by later as well, seeing him in his uniform was… exquisite. 

The americano done faster, his colleague walked outside to wait for Shinjuro while you focused on making a little something with his foam. You had been trying out different animals recently and you felt like you could nail what you had in mind today. 

Sure enough, it came out perfectly. You presented the paper cup with a proud smile and offered a cap for it, which he took but didn’t put on.

“Your latte art is always beautiful,” he said as he studied the swan you made for him. “Elegant  and charming, just like you.” 

Blood rushed to your cheeks at the compliment, and you tried to hide how flustered the comment made you; the way you clenched your apron with your hands gave you away though. 

Shinjuro gave you a smug smile, sipping his latte and licking his lips enticingly. Tsk. 

Mischief previously concealed buzzed underneath your skin, and a flirtatious remark made its way past your lips without your mind being able to stop it. “If you were a coffee,” you leaned in slowly, your hands laying on the counter, your eyes becoming hooded, as if you were under the influence of his charm, and he leaned in too, as if you were to tell him a great secret, “you would be a triple shot of espresso, because you're strong, bold and you make my heart race.”

Bright red blush spread across his cheeks and Shinjuro blinked a few times, surprise painting over the usual smile he bore. It was delightful. You grinned fiendishly. Oh how the tables have turned.

With a hasty thank you and an even deeper flush, he nearly ran out, like an untried rookie. 

You were bad for his heart.

…he had to return in the afternoon and ask you out properly.

dividers by @benkeibear network: @enchantedforest-network

[callimara]

The Aegis & Spellbook

An ancient spellbook written by The First Keeper. He spent his life collecting the Aegis from all corners of the world to seal them away in this book. It contains detailed information on each Aegis, their Sentinels, history, as well as powerful spells capable of commanding them. Thus, the wielder of this spellbook has compulsion over all Aegis.  To prevent this book (along with the sealed Aegis) from falling into the wrong hands, it was hidden in a concealed crypt; enshrined with The First Keeper himself. The Aegis and their stories were soon forgotten and lost to time.

Songbird Aegis

A hair comb embedded by a splendid rainbow opal. It is inhabited by Wren, the Sentinel of Emotion. He is represented by the songbird, creatures known for their melodious calls, capable of affecting the psyche of any living creature. With their songs, they evoke joy and hope, or even sorrow and alarm. They sing to form connection and they fill their environment with life.  After all, it is said that the experience of emotion is how one can truly be alive. To express emotion and to evoke them in others is the power of the Songbird Aegis. Thus, it is no wonder that those chosen as Wren’s vessels are those in the arts. Individuals who evoke emotion through their craft: artists, writers, musicians, and actors. Creative spirits who are highly in tune with their feelings and the feelings of others. However, this has not always resulted in a noble outcome. Some have used this aegis to spread dangerous feelings and ideas, creating in discord and disunity within communities for generations. The Songbird Aegis grants its wielders a power called Siren Song: a vocal compulsion that fills those within hearing range with powerful emotions (be it crippling sadness, strong determination, burning anger, or sluggish laziness.) It functions as both a support for their allies and an obstacle for opponents. However, the wielder must genuinely feel those emotions for the power to work, and the effect only lasts for as long as the wielder’s performance lasts. If they stop or are interrupted, the effects of the power immediately disappear. Often times, Songbird Aegis wielders will also have keen hearing if they are musicians, heightened perception if they are artists, greater empathy if they are writers, and higher charisma if they are actors. In their transformed state, Songbird Aegis wielders will also sport wings, gain perfect pitch, and the ability to sing in any language. To activate the Songbird Aegis, one must use the phrase “Crescendo” and to deactivate, “Morendo.”

Cat Aegis

A choker necklace embedded with a luminous Cat’s Eye Moonstone. It is inhabited by Felis, the embodiment of Wonder. She embodies a living being’s curiosity and wanderlust; the desire to push the limits of what is possible and thrive by one’s own means. She is represented by the cat; adventurous and independent creatures who will always find their own way in the world. They seek adventure as often as they provide it to others, but they rarely stay in one place: one moment here, then gone the next. Their presence is a common sight among the occult: enshrouded in mystery yet always seeking more to pursue.  Vessels of Felis are known for their wanderlust and daring spirit. They tend to follow the path less travelled: they hunger for sights few others will ever see. They desire to forge into the unknown, chase thrills, and refuse to allow long odds to slow them down. However, vessels of Felis are incredibly secretive and flighty individuals, often living a double life and never staying in one place for long. Thus, many of Felis’ chosen vessels have been explorers, secret intelligence, and lawbreakers. Many have pioneered the discovery of lost ruins and unknown ecosystems, accomplished feats previously thought impossible, and uncovered (or created) deep-rooted conspiracies. However, it is the curse of the Cat Aegis wielder to walk a path of solitude, until the day the secrets they have guarded swallows them whole. In their transformed states, Cat Aegis wielders gain agility, dexterity, and reaction speed that is superior to other aegis users; as well as unique traits such as night vision and ‘9 lives.’ These 9 lives are a culmination of a feline’s ‘righting reflex’ and the wielder’s increased dexterity and agility; allowing them accomplish off near-impossible feats of athleticism or escape from life-threatening situations unharmed. They may also develop cat-like features such as claws, fangs, cat ears, tail, and eyes.  The special power of the Cat Aegis is dubbed Leap, which allows the user to instantly teleport to any previously visited location through the creation of portals. Only the user is able to see and pass through these portals (creating the illusion of teleportation to others), and the portals close immediately after the user steps through. Portals can be opened anywhere within the user’s line of sight, and only one portal can be open at any given time. If a portal is left open, the user cannot open a new one. However, an open portal will close on their own if the user detransforms. The user cannot open portals to locations they have not physically been to before, and the further the destination is from their current location, the more energy is exerted, which may force the user to detransform sooner. The amount of times the user can use Leap depends on their stamina. However, leaping to locations within their line of sight requires little to no energy. This Aegis’ activation phrase is “Bewitch” and her deactivation phrase is “Disenchant.”

Snake Aegis

This Aegis is a serpent-shaped bangle embedded with a piece of colour-shifting alexandrite. It is inhabited by Naga, the Sentinel of Change. As the Sentinel of Change, she is the embodiment of a living creature’s innate and instinctive need to adapt to its environment in order to survive. She is represented by the snake; a polarizing creature that is both feared and admired: similar to change itself. It is considered a symbol of evil, dark magic, and temptation; but at the same time, it is also revered as a symbol of medicine, fertility, and rebirth. As such, Vessels of Naga are usually introspective and resilient; adaptable and ever-changing; and always striving for improvement and self-betterment. They are determined to overcome barriers and help others to do the same: rarely losing heart in the face of an obstacle, instead seeing it as a challenge to be overcome. Thus, many of Naga’s vessels are those in the position of guidance, care, or progress; often being involved in healthcare, innovation, the sciences, and education. But when misplaced, this ability to overcome obstacles often lead the snake aegis wielder to cross boundaries that were put in place for the safety and protection of all; sometimes, the fact that they can is more important than whether they should. When transformed, wielders of the Snake Aegis also develop snake-like traits such as thermal sense, fangs, and scales; as well as superior flexibility and agility to other aegis wielders.  The Snake Aegis grants its wielder a unique power dubbed Devour, which allows them to absorb the energy of their opponents’ attacks and stockpile it into one extremely powerful attack, or use it to recharge themselves to remain transformed for longer and heal injuries. Though, there is a limit to the amount of force that can be absorbed.  To activate the snake aegis, wielders must use the phrase, “Jaws Open.” Its deactivation phrase is, “Brumate.” 

Hawk Aegis

A brass bracelet embedded with a brilliant fire opal. It is Inhabited by Beddiah, the Freedom Sentinel. His name was inspired by the minor loa Badessy, who holds the domain of the sky in Vodou. He embodies every living creature’s desire for self-determination, and the power to act without any hindrance or restraint. He is represented by the hawk, a creature championed as a symbol of freedom: inspiring hope wherever it soars through the skies. The hawk are magnificent birds of prey known for its flight prowess and fearlessness, preying on not only small mammals and birds, but venomous reptiles. Wielders of the Hawk Aegis are self-assured and strong-willed. They live in the moment and follow where the wind blows. But most of all, they value their autonomy and cannot be tethered or bound; for many of them, this extends to others as well as themselves. Thus, many of its wielders have been freedom fighters or rebels. This freedom does not necessarily have to be physical; the wielders of the Hawk Aegis often champion freedom in all of its forms. However, this focus on freedom has a cost; some of the Aegis wielders have taken their ideals of freedom too far, often sowing the seeds of anarchy and chaos in their wake. The Hawk Aegis grants its wielders a power called Changing Winds, which allows the wielder to will an event into reality. However, the wielder must be able to picture the event clearly in their minds and it must affect them directly; as it manifests as strokes of luck to aid the wielder in action. The Hawk Aegis also grants its wielders the gift of speed and flight. In fact, Hawk Aegis wielders are the most proficient fliers as they possess increased durability against high gravity, immunity from whiplash and may even reach Mach speeds in their flight course. Its wielders may also develop hawk-like traits such as keen eyesight, sharp talons, brown feathers, and wings. To activate the Hawk Aegis, its wielder must say the phrase, “To the Heavens” and to deactivate, “Down to Earth.”

Wolf Aegis

This Aegis is a fingerless glove embedded with an earthy brown onyx. It is inhabited by Villr, the Sentinel of Protection. Villr embodies the natural instinct in all creatures to provide shelter and safety to those they care for: be it for the sake of survival, genuine affection, or both. He is represented by the wolf, a symbol of guardianship and loyalty. They are pack animals that thrive off of community and develop deep emotional bonds to each other; forming the foundation of loyalty and dedication which compels them to protect each other.  Vessels of Villr are often self-sacrificing, with a strong sense of belonging and a stronger urge to protect those they consider home. Thus, the aegis often finds affinity with people in roles of protection, such as parental guardians, firefighters, search and rescue, and law enforcement. However, when taken too far, this desire to protect has led to delusions of ownership and entitlement; exerting absolute control and isolation over those they wish to protect, and stopping at nothing to ensure their safety: even if it means decimating anything and everything they consider a threat. When transformed, wielders of the Wolf Aegis develop a keen sense of smell that is superior to other aegis wielders. They also possess greater armor strength that allows them to absorb only a fraction of damage other aegis wielders would sustain. Wielders will develop wolf-like features such as fangs, ears, tails, and claws when they are transformed.  The Wolf Aegis possesses a special power called Lycan’s Rage, which increases its wielder’s strength the greater their anger or determination grows to protect or eliminate a threat. Any damage received while this power is activated also increases their strength. However, the stronger they become, the more difficult it is to control their power, and the sooner they become exhausted and need to de-transform.  To activate the wolf aegis, its wielder must call out, “Howl Havoc” and, “Silence Reigns.” To deactivate.

Stag Aegis

This Aegis is a wooden ring mimicking the shape of a deer’s antlers with a verdant malachite embedded in its center. It is inhabited by Cernunnos, the Sentinel of Harmony. Cernunnos is partially based off of the Gallo-Roman deity of the same name, who was also associated with the Horned God in Wicca. As the Sentinel of Harmony, Cernunnos embodies the importance of balance and coexistence; for all living creatures to fulfill their roles and maintain the natural order. He is represented by the stag, often perceived by many cultures as the lord of the forest; and as the lord of the forest, it falls to him to maintain balance and harmony across his kingdom.  Thus, vessels of Cernunnos are those with a strong moral compass and sense of justice. They will fight for the prosperity of all living creatures, human or animal. Many go on to pioneer movements to abolish cruelty and mistreatment upon all living beings. They have a strong sense of community and connection to their surroundings. Thus, the stag aegis has often been wielded by conservationists, activists, and humanitarian workers. However, the wielders of this aegis may become consumed by their righteousness and concept of justice that they fail to recognize the needs and desires of those they are fighting for; often projecting their own ideals and corrupting their cause. Due to their strong connection to nature and every living creature, stag aegis wielders also gain the ability to communicate with any animal they come across when they are transformed. All stag aegis wielders will also develop antlers and a keen sense of hearing that is superior to other aegis wielders.  The stag aegis also possesses as unique power dubbed Metamorphosis, which allows its users to transform into any animal that they have anatomical and physiological understanding of. As long as this power is active, they are able to freely change between different animals. However, the longer this power is activated, the more energy they use to remain transformed.  To activate this aegis, its wielders must use the phrase, “The Hunt Begins” and deactivate it using the phrase, “The Hunt Ends.”

Raven Aegis

A feather earring embedded with a striking black opal. This Aegis is inhabited by Hugenn, the Sentinel of Thought.  He is the embodiment of every living creature’s ability to process information, analyse, and problem-solve. His name was inspired by one of Odin’s ravens, Huginn, whose job it was to bring information from Midgard to his master. As such, Hugenn is represented by the raven; an intelligent creature capable of problem-solving, planning, and using tools.  Vessels of Hugenn are those with extraordinary intellect, critical thinking, and cognitive flexibility. They value knowledge and the pursuit of truth above all else. Thus, the Raven Aegis often finds itself in the possession of scholars, scientists, and investigators. They strive to uncover the mysteries of the world and gain a better understanding of the unknown. Many bring about groundbreaking discoveries and innovations that have changed the world, for better or for worse. Though occasionally their single-minded pursuit of knowledge and truth blinds them to the morality of what it takes to achieve it. Thus, Raven Aegis users are blessed with superhuman thinking speed, processing elaborate strings of information and multiple lines of thought within a fraction of a second. This processing speed allows them to seemingly slow down time when they analyze their surroundings and contemplate their next course of action. Wielders with particularly keen intellect will also gain photographic memory. However, most will develop raven-like traits such as black feathers, wings, and the ability to perfectly mimic any human voice.  The Raven Aegis grants its wielders a special power called Vision, which allows them to see a second or two into their own future, and giving them to opportunity to anticipate, plan, and react inhumanly fast. However, while they are using this power, it also renders them completely blind, forcing them to rely on their other senses and memory of the terrain. To activate this Aegis, its wielder must call out, “Part the veil” and to deactivate, “Curtain falls.”

Tiger Aegis

The Tiger Aegis is a belt with a tiger head shaped buckle embedded with a vibrant red tiger’s eye. It is inhabited by Maung, the Sentinel of Strength. Strength is integral to any creature’s survival: it determines who eats, who starves, who continues their bloodline, and who succumbs to natural selection. The tiger is a symbol of strength and power revered for its grace and beauty in many cultures; and many more attempt to evoke its strength and courage in the face of adversity. Therefore, vessels of Maung are individuals with extraordinary strength and will, who command admiration and respect within their community. They do not falter in the face of a challenge and will march until they claim victory. They are fierce and determined, and once they have set their mind on a goal, they will not rest until they have achieved it. Thus, the Tiger Aegis often finds itself in the possession of leaders, soldiers, and mercenaries. Individuals who are willing to lay their lives on the line for the sake of achieving their goals. However, often times wielders of this aegis will not fret about the morality of how they will achieve their goals, so long as they succeed in doing so. When transformed, Tiger Aegis wielders develop physical strength that is superior to other aegis wielders. Wielders may also develop tiger-like features such as: tiger ears, tail, claws, fangs, and striping on their bodies. The Tiger Aegis’ unique power is dubbed “Killing Intent,” which spreads an aura of intimidation to those in their vicinity; activating the flight portion of their fight or flight response which causes their opponents to hesitate, retreat, or freeze in place. This power affects those within a 20 meter radius regardless of whether they are able to see or hear them. This aura also affects allies and may require the user to exert themselves to affect individuals with nerves of steel. However, the longer it is activated, the shorter the time the wielder is able to remain transformed. The activation phrase used for this aegis is, “Go for the Kill” and its deactivation phrase is, “Hunger slaked.”

▶ Wildward Master Post

[zvaigzdelasas]

Chinese foundry SMIC may have broken the 5nm process barrier, as evidenced by a new Huawei laptop listed with an advanced chip with 5nm manufacturing tech — a feat previously thought impossible due to U.S sanctions. This year, SMIC shocked the world after it began mass production of Huawei's HiSilicon Kirin 9000S processor using its second-gen 7nm process technology. But the company seems to have at least one more trick up its sleeve: a 5nm fabrication process that is either already in use for high-volume manufacturing (HVM) or is in the final stages of its development. In fact, Huawei now lists a chip made on a 5nm-class process node — an eight-core Arm-based HiSilicon Kirin 9000C processor with Arm Mali-G78 graphics for laptops — on its website. A posting on Huawei's website claims the Qingyun L540 laptop is "equipped with the Kirin 9006C chip, utilizing a 5nm process technology, eight cores, with a maximum clock speed of up to 3.13 GHz, offering higher performance, lower power consumption, and faster processing speeds."

The Kirin 9006C's general-purpose cores are listed at up to 3.13 GHz, which is only slightly lower than the clocks that TSMC and Apple could wring out of the original TSMC N5 process technology (the maximum frequency for Apple's M1 high-performance cores is 3.20 GHz). Meanwhile, the Kirin 9006C's peak clock rate looks similar to another chip, the Kirin 9000, which was produced for Huawei by TSMC.

7 Dec 23

[mon-the-lemur]

Thoughts on the new DA:The Veilguard trailer

Here are some thoughts that my friends @hug4tim and @slecnaztemnot and I had watching the trailer in detail.

Black City

I believe this is Rook inside the Black city. It is a ruined version of the Arlathan place from the gameplay reveal trailer. And while that place was golden and relatively untouched, this place is obviously ruined, completely devoid of colour and there are vines growing through it, which look like lyrium veins, presumably blighted.

Teleportation magic

Here we see Elghar'nan jumping out from a void bubble and appearing out of nowhere in front of Ghilan'nain. There was no teleportation magic in the previous games for lore reasons. I believe that now when the veil is torn, we will be seing more previously impossible feats of magic.

Underwater level(s?)

This place is obviously an elven ruin that is now underwater. Most probably the sea and I expect it perhaps off shore from Rivain. Maybe we will also get to swim?

Lyrium mines + Titan eathshaping magic

Here we see an entrance to the inside of a mountain. Based on the doors and the architecture around, it was originally dwarven, but perhaps now used by other peoples (ie dwarven pully systems tend to use way less wood).

Just after this we see the inside of the mine, with lyrium veins running through the cavern.

Following that we get to see Harding petrifying darkspawn.

In my opinion this will be one of Harding's major quests. As far as I know, Harding hasn't really been in the deep roads much. Perhaps when she goes to the lyrium mine, a titan once again stirs due to the torn veil and connects with Harding, giving her stone creating and shaping abilities. She can petrify creatures and it seems also create rock formations:

Morrigan

Our with girl finally changed her wardrobe :D

The crown is obviously the same design as Flemeths. I believe that Morrigan has indeed inherrited Mythal's soul from Flemeth, as was theorized.

Also, as you can see her magic is now much stronger and visually very similar to the elvhen gods' that we have seen.

I also think, that from Morrigan's side it does not matter who drank from the Well, she will have those abilities either way through Mythal herself. In my opinion it will only have consequences for the Inquisitor, who could have some bonuses and issues depending on either choice with the Well in DA:I.

Manfred the walking backpack

Adding this just cause... I mean look at him, he's adorable.

Multiple elvhen gods

This image follows the screenshot with Manfred in the trailer.

It seems to be set in Nevarra's necropolis. And it also looks like there might be a little bit of a cult situation going on.

This image is accompanied by Bellara saying "Our gods are back". That and the "cult" lead me to believe we may be looking at Falon'din.

The armor design looks very similar to Solas' from the prologue. The skeleton has horns on it head, and as per Solas' words on Falon'din, he was vain and loved gaining followers. That to me tracks with what we seem to be shown in the image above.

Also what is up with Ghilan'nain here????

Taash

The person lying down in the sand (?) seems to have horns, one of them made from green crystal. That screams to me that it is Taash. Perhaps this is how we get to meet her. If so, the poor baby always has bad angles in trailers :D

Anderfels

Lucanis' personal quest?

Neve's personal quest?

The man with red lyrium looks like he is wearing similar outfit to Neve, so perhaps a shadow dragon, or maybe even family member.

Irellin and Strife (?)

[eisenartworks]

On Genos asking Saitama if he got stronger...

Initially, I was a bit confused on why Genos is asking Saitama this again. It's already been addressed in the previous arc, and you'd think it's all well and done, but ONE makes a point on bringing it up again, and that Saitama's answer is different.

But that's because he's referring to two different things!

To recap:

A lot of people assume Saitama is talking about his core...

But that I wholeheartedly disagree. Genos asked on whether or not he got stronger. Saitama answered he has. Except Saitama wasn't talking about in terms of power, he's talking about in terms of spirit.

And Genos has! There's a distinct difference between sacrificing your life to taking any chance to blow yourself up just because you're passively suicidal. The story doesn't spell it out for us, but for all of Genos's great penchant to somehow survive despite barely cutting it, he doesn't exactly value his own life and happiness. This is the first time he's been put into a corner with little chance of escaping and deliberately chose not to blow himself up, because he started to not only to value the lives of his comrades, but his own too. And Saitama acknowledges that it's a good thing! That he's not wrong or immoral to feel that way! Because Saitama knows what it's like to be suicidal. Choosing to live another day is a brave feat of strength indeed.

If you're gonna argue Saitama is just being dumb and Genos was being dumb because he was misinterpreting things again because what Saitama actually meant his core got stronger - here's the thing: Saitama has never cared about power. It's always been about character with him.

The only time he'd care about someone's power level is when it's getting absurdly destructive that it may destroy his or other people's property (Psykorochi, Tatsumaki) or when it's obvious it's about to kill or has killed people (Boros's CSRC, Cosmic Garou). He didn't care that Mumen Rider is weaker than DSK, but he cared about his strength of character to protect people against all odds didn't he?

Even then, how the heck would Saitama even judge if Genos's core actually did get stronger? He doesn't have any basis for it. He hasn't seen the enemies Genos fought. He hasn't seen what the core could do. Hell, he hasn't even seen Genos since he has a broken up body during hotpot night to even know what his feats are. All he knew is that Genos is now limbless and that he lost. But that he had enough strength in spirit to hold on and protect Tatsumaki without fully giving into despair that he'd blow he and Tatsumaki up all thanks to King telling him what happened.

This... was a TERRIBLE answer.

So why was it so ass? Because this time, Genos is clearly asking not if he got stronger in spirit but stronger in terms of power.

Saitama is the last person you should be asking these things, since you might as well ask someone who is lightyears away from earth that you changed the engine in your car so now it could go greater distance and last longer on the road, he'd say "sweet!" but he won't ever be able to tell the difference even if you pop your car hood open nor show the number miles you traveled. To him it's all the same: he's too far away to make an accurate judgement.

Heartbreaking thing is, there's a fairly good reason why it's to important to Genos to be acknowledged he'd grown stronger in power and why he pursues power to begin with: it's not just vengeance nor justice for everything he lost, it's also to make sure he never experiences those loss again. Nor for anyone to experience the same things he did. Saitama's casual "dismissal" just affirms Genos's worst insecurities and fear - that he's still the same weak and helpless 15 year old that couldn't save his town nor protect his family, but survived anyway. Genos has achieved the height of power he previously thought impossible, but heartbreakingly he's so in his head he can't or doesn't even acknowledge it. For all he knows, he still doesn't have the power to not just beat enemies, but to protect people.

They really need to have a proper discussion, but ONE is never one for simple and straightforward journeys.

[bunnisanblog]

We'll Break up in the End

Chapter 1: Black Coffee Previously: Summary and Story Info Word Count: 1.1k

You throw on yesterday’s going-out clothes after a sniff test and decide that it’s still good for a short trip to the bakery. It's just called "Bakery," so you have high hopes that the pastries would taste more exciting. Before you head out the door, you sneak a glance at the bathroom mirror and examine your state. Dark circles were the first thing you noticed, but you shrug it off since it's just going to be a quick trip. You give yourself some credit though, for taking the time to do your skincare routine and brushing your hair, which were almost impossible feats just a few months ago when you found out about your ex's double life. Aside from those, you were ready to go, until something catches your eye. Your makeup bag. You haven't thought of applying makeup since then, but you can't help but slightly frown because of how much you spent on lip glosses and eye shadow palettes that you begged your boyfriend- ... ex-boyfriend... to buy you even if you knew only two of the twelve colors would be used. You shake your head at the memory and head out the door, making a mental note to do a closet purge and toss out anything that reminds you of him.

The sunlight blinds your eyes when you start walking, so you make a little shade with your hand to block out the sun from your face. It just occurred to you how long you've been cooped up inside and ignoring any invites to go out. You check your phone that was once bombarded with texts from friends and a lover, and now it's just dry. 'Like me,' you thought and snort to yourself. There's no better way to cope with a shitty situation than making a joke about how shittier the circumstances are now, like for example, taking a jab at your sex life. You check the navigation to make sure you're still headed in the right direction before letting your mind wander. Left, right, left right. It's not like you forgot how to walk or weren't active inside your apartment, but walking outside is different. You know where everything is inside your space, just enough so you don't run into tables or the messily organized piles of junk you thought to save for later. The outside, however- your train of thought is interrupted by the burning sensation of steaming coffee going through your now-needs-to-be-washed sweater and hitting your skin. You look up at a fairly tall man, clad in a white apron, with a fair-looking face. As if your body wasn't already feeling the heat from the coffee, your face feels like it's on fire from embarrassment. The cute stranger's eyes widen and he places the sample tray of the other coffees on a table to quickly pat you down with his hand towel. "Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry are you hurt?" His bangs cover a bit of his eyes when he looks down at you with concern.

"No, no I'm fine," you reassure him, taking the towel from him and wiping your arm. (You're pretty sure you might have some burns cause it stings with contact.) "I'm sorry, I should've looked where I was going," you sheepishly say, looking in his general direction but trying to avoid eye contact.

He extends his hand towards you, and you feel the blush on your face grow, but you're frozen. You have no idea what to do because you just met and surely he's not asking to hold your hand-?

"If you'd like, I can take that towel from you if you're done with it," he smiles. You completely forgot about the towel you had a death grip on, and you shove it in his hand a bit rougher than you planned.

"Oh! I'm sorry again, I didn't mean to-" His wholesome and full laugh just cuts you off. Based on his exterior features, you wouldn't expect him to appear so... light and carefree? His defined jaw line and muscular build gives off a more stern vibe about him, especially his matching dark circles to yours, but he somehow makes them look good.

"It's okay, no need to apologize. Please, come inside the bakery. If you need any assistance, you can ask for Nanami." He says, with his signature smile.

You walk in and your senses are flooded with the mouthwatering scent of fresh bread, but all you can think about is Nanami- and how nice he was to you, of course. You can't afford to have another man take up space in your head rent-free again, at least not so soon. You pick out some custard buns, garlic cheese breads, and you notice a lone ham sandwich. It's in a shiny plastic wrap, and you thought what better way to express your gratitude for helping you than to get him a sandwich for lunch! You knew it was a reach, but it's not like you can just strike up a conversation randomly with him, no? You gather all your things and after paying, you see Nanami at the door.

He smiles at you in a kind of way that makes your heart beat ten times faster and feel like it'll bounce up and out of your chest. Before your overthinking forces you to miss this opportunity, you stick your hand in the pastry bag and present the sandwich to him. His eyes slightly widen in surprise and his lips part, but nothing comes out. "Here! I hope I didn't cause you too much trouble earlier with the coffee... so I bought you a sandwich for your lunch. If you haven't taken it yet. Or maybe your dinner if you've already eaten lunch. Not to say that you don't have any other food at home..." Oh god, you already messed up. You mentally curse at yourself for going on and rambling. You honestly expected him to just ignore it or just brush you off as just another girl in the long line that has a crush on him. (Do you have a crush on him?)

Instead, he smiles so wide that his eyes follow suit, and your ears are blessed with his laugh again. "Great minds think alike," he says, while pulling out the same ham sandwich from his apron pocket. "How did you know it was my favorite?"

"Lucky guess?" You start to ease into the conversation with Nanami and find yourself genuinely smiling - not out of nervousness or embarrassment.

"Well, it's not everyday you meet someone with the same taste in sandwich. If you're free, maybe we can eat it together in a few minutes when I go on my lunch?" You're sure you mistake the hopeful glint in his eyes when he asks you to spend his lunch break with him.

"Sure, I can wait at a table," you smile up at him, not getting over the height difference. You watch as he slips his apron off on his way back inside, and there's only a single thought in your mind.

You should've at least brought your makeup bag.

*:･ﾟ✧ Author's Note: Yay, I got the first chapter out! I hope I can improve in my writing style as the story goes on. This was just to set the scene, but wowowow an impromptu first like-date after a meet-cute?!

*:･ﾟ✧ Taglist: @an-ever-angry-bi 🫶

[newmusickarl]

Mercury Music Prize 2024: Ranking The Contenders

My favourite time of year has arrived – the season of the Mercury Music Prize. Back in July, the twelve albums nominated for the 2024 prize were revealed and, as ever, served up a highly diverse and eclectic list of some of the best British and Irish music released over the last 12 months. Each of these nominated records is now vying for the prestigious title of Album of the Year, the overriding criteria for which has greatly deviated throughout the award’s history.

In terms of the competition, last year felt like a big watershed moment. With myself and many others previously writing off the jazz nomination as soon as the annual shortlist is announced, Ezra Collective’s pleasantly surprising victory set a new precedence for the prize – any album can win. Not only that, but this year’s Mercury Prize shortlist presents arguably the most open contest for some years, making it almost impossible to predict. But hey – let’s try and predict it anyway!

As I do each year, I’ve now listened to all 12 albums and tried to rank them based on what I think are their chances of winning. To be clear, this is not a “Worst-to-Best” countdown – this ranking is based solely on how likely I think they are to win the overall prize.

To determine this, I’ve considered:

The impact and artistic achievement attained by the album

The popularity of the artist

The level of critical acclaim the album has received

How similar albums have fared over the years

All clear? Good!

Without further ado, here’s my final thoughts and analysis on this year’s nominees.

12. Lives Outgrown by Beth Gibbons

The debut solo album from the Portishead frontwoman is an absorbing work, a heavy listen that can be tricky to love at first but will eventually win you over. It’s certainly won the critics over too, becoming one of the most positively reviewed albums of the year thus far.

So why bottom of the list? Well for me, Beth has several factors working against her. Firstly, she’s a well-established artist who wouldn’t gain much from earning Mercury Prize recognition this late into her career. Secondly, and most importantly, she’s a former Mercury Prize winner, having lifted the trophy with Portishead’s Dummy back in 1995.

There’s only ever been one two-time winner in the prize’s history (PJ Harvey for those wondering) and at this juncture in her career, I personally don’t see Beth becoming the second person to achieve this feat – particularly given the strength of some of the debutants on this year’s shortlist.

11. Bad With Names by Corto.alto

Having already been so familiar with a lot of the records on this year’s shortlist, this debut from Glaswegian multi-instrumentalist Liam Shortall has been my favourite discovery through this year's prize. Recorded in his bedroom, it’s a mesmerising collision of jazz and electronic music that is genuinely unique and pulls you back in for repeated listens.

However, why it is so far down on my list is mainly due to Ezra Collective winning the prize last year. Whilst this album from Corto.alto isn’t solely a jazz project, of all the records on the list it is the one that falls the most into that genre. While Ezra Collective historically bucked the trend last year of jazz records never prevailing and winning the overall prize, another longstanding trend is that Mercury Prize wins rarely come from the same genre in back-to-back years. So, with a jazz record taking home the trophy last year, it makes me think the judges will go in a different direction in 2024.

10. On Purpose, With Purpose by Ghetts

The fourth studio album from the acclaimed, MOBO-award winning rapper, On Purpose, With Purpose is an ambitious project that showcases Ghetts' prowess for strong storytelling and cutting social commentary. It also features a stacked list of collaborators, including Mercury Prize alumni Kano and Sampha.

Now Ghetts is one of the few artists on this year’s shortlist who has been nominated for the Mercury Prize previously, having been shortlisted for the 2021 prize with Conflict of Interest. While recent history would suggest this could work in his favour (Little Simz and Michael Kiwanuka both won on their second and third times of trying), I feel this is a weaker effort compared to Conflict of Interest. Not only that but it seems fans and critics agree, with this album one of the lowest scoring on review aggregate site albumoftheyear.org. With this being the case, this is one I am filing under unlikely to win.

9. Early Twenties by Cat Burns

Talk about sneaking in there – this debut album from British singer-songwriter Cat Burns was released on the 12th of July this year, the final day for eligible entries into the 2024 prize. Obviously the judges would have listened to it before that date though, and they were clearly taken in by the record’s uplifting pop melodies and soul-baring lyricism.

Now, there actually isn’t too much working against Cat Burns when it comes to winning the overall prize. It is a debut album which always fair well and she’s also had good success in recent years with critic-led awards, having come fourth in the BBC Sound of 2023 and earning three Brit Award nominations just last year.

However, with the late release date you do wonder if the album would have had chance to make an impact on the judging panel in the same way as some of the other records on this list. Additionally, the album hasn’t had too long to make an impact culturally on the wider music world either, which leads me to think this is another album that is unlikely to prevail.

8. Who Am I by BERWYN

Like Ghetts, British rapper, producer and songwriter BERWYN is another artist who has been on the shortlist before, having also been nominated in 2021 for his impressively raw mixtape, Demotape/Vega. Now back with what is being billed as his debut studio album, WHO AM I is a powerful force that is as lyrically spellbinding as it is emotionally impactful.

However unlike Ghetts, BERWYN for me actually has a lot pulling for him. Again it’s another debut, he’s a previous nominee and rap records have typically done well in recent years (see wins from Little Simz, Dave and Skepta). So why is it only 8th on the list I hear you ask? Well, I think it simply boils down to there being some stronger records on this list that you can argue are more deserving. Whilst a BERWYN win (or a BER-WIN if you want to be cheesy) is certainly possible, my gut tells me its also improbable given the strength of the field.

7. Black Rainbows by Corinne Bailey Rae

A record that made my own year-end list back in December finishing an impressive 16th, Black Rainbows is one of the most acclaimed albums on this year’s shortlist. Inspired by an exhibition on Black history by artist Theaster Gates at the Stony Island Arts Bank in Chicago, the album is a mesmerising collage of eclectic sounds that range from soul and R&B to frantic garage rock and sprawling electronica.

Corinne is also a previous nominee, having had her sophomore record The Sea shortlisted for the 2010 prize. Given the love and acclaim Black Rainbows has received too, it wouldn’t be too surprising to see Corinne announced as the winner on the night.

However given the other nominees, my gut instinct says the judges may favour a newer artist, with Corinne almost in the same category as Beth Gibbons as already being too well established at this point. Whilst a Mercury win would certainly be deserving, my instincts are telling me this likely won’t be Corinne’s year.

6. When Will We Land? by Barry Can’t Swim

An album I’m personally a massive fan of and would love to see win tomorrow night. When Will We Land, the debut from Scottish musician and producer Joshua Mainnie AKA Barry Can’t Swim, is a vibrant and joyous experience like no other. Filled with a globe-trotting mix of sonic influences and textures, it is an incredible debut that has cemented Barry Can’t Swim as a household name in the electronic music world over the last year.

Now much like jazz albums, electronic records are good at getting nominated, but rarely do they win. In fact, you have to go all the way back to James Blake’s win in 2013 for Overgrown to find the last triumph from the popular genre. So not only is an electronic record long overdue a win, Barry’s debut has had such an impact in the space, not just for him but for the genre on the whole, it would be a well-received victory.

That said, as much as I would love Barry to walk away the overall prize winner, I think his chances are sadly fewer than some of the others on this year’s shortlist.

5. Silence Is Loud by Nia Archives

We’re into the real contenders now and this debut from record producer, DJ and singer-songwriter Nia Archives is certainly in with a chance. Heralded for its groundbreaking fusion of Jungle and Britpop with sincere lyricism at the heart, it’s an album that is truly unlike any other released in 2024.

With Nia such a trailblazer and pioneer for this Jungle revival that British music is now seeing, not just bringing the genre back to the fore but moving it forward as well, you have to wonder if Nia will get the nod in the same way Skepta won in 2016 for Konnichiwa. While that was arguably not the best record on the shortlist that year, it seemed like the judges were keen to recognise Skepta’s impact on the British rap and grime scene, helping to really bring it to a worldwide audience. I could easily see this reasoning repeated and with Nia’s record a debut too, it’s definitely one of the frontrunners in this very open contest.

Again, the only thing working against a Silence Is Loud win is the impact and quality of the others on the shortlist.

4. Brat by Charli XCX

An album that needs no introduction at this point. Let’s face it, has there been a British record in the last five years – or even decade - that has had as big of a cultural impact, in such a short space of time too, than Charli XCX’s Brat?

Although only released in June, the album has already cemented itself as one of the defining albums of 2024, and indeed the 2020s. From the iconic green artwork that has inspired festival fashion to instantly iconic lyrics entering the internet zeitgeist, to even politicians using the album’s lore in their political campaigns - the last few months have truly been a “brat summer”.

As we look ahead to tomorrow, Brat is currently the bookie’s favourite to take home the prize. In any other year, I would discount Charli simply for being too commercially successful and the judges tending to favour lesser-known artists when it comes to granting the overall prize. While I still ultimately think that will be the case, there is also a part of me that thinks the judges may see the impact of Brat and think it would be crazy to not award it the title of Album of the Year. In addition to this, Brat has received extreme acclaim too from critics, so it would be an incredibly popular win.

Back in 2006, Arctic Monkeys had the fastest-selling debut album ever at that time and as a result, would go on to win the Mercury Prize that year. Commercially successful albums winning when they’ve achieved cultural significance isn’t unheard of throughout the history of the Mercury Prize, so don’t be surprised if Charli walks away with it tomorrow - despite being one of the biggest popstars on the planet right now.

3. Prelude To Ecstasy by The Last Dinner Party

Speaking of fast-selling debuts, upon it’s release back in February, Prelude To Ecstasy became the UK's biggest first week-selling debut album in nine years. Considering the buzz surrounding it, this came as no surprise as there are few bands as vehemently discussed as The Last Dinner Party. Yet in many ways they still feel slightly underappreciated, often criticised for the wrong reasons. When you focus on the musicianship of the record itself, there are few debut albums as anthemic, as dazzling and as accomplished as Prelude To Ecstasy.

Much like Brat, The Last Dinner Party’s debut feels like one of the defining records of the last 12 months and although also commercially successful, you could see the critic darlings crowned the overall winners for that reason. They are also less established than Charli, so may feel like a compromise as they are still technically a “new” artist. However, you also feel the judges may recognise awarding the London quintet the overall prize may sadly have an adverse effect, leaving them prone to more criticism and intense scrutiny from their naysayers.

This again makes me think the judges will ultimately go in a different direction, but personally I think this record deserves all the praise and awards in the world. Without a doubt, one of the year’s finest albums.

2. This Could Be Texas by English Teacher

Into the top two then and now we have arrived at the two albums I think have the best chance of winning the overall prize tomorrow. One is a choice of head, the other is a choice of heart. 

If I’m going with my head, everything points me in the direction of this debut album from rock quartet, English Teacher. Hugely acclaimed, particularly by the British music press, it’s an album that has captivated due to it’s soaring originality, poetic lyrics and broad eclecticism. In fact, when you look at the genres that typically make up the Mercury Prize shortlist each year – rock, jazz, electronic, pop, soul, R&B, folk, punk and post-punk – This Could Be Texas has a little bit of all of that.

This for me is a record tailor-made to win the Mercury Prize. It is a debut album, from a band that is still up-and-coming, that would benefit massively from the greater exposure, and an album which will surely tick a lot of boxes for the diverse music tastes on the judging panel.

It’s also interesting to note that there is a strong Leeds/Bradford contingent on this year’s shortlist, with a quarter of the artists nominated heralding from the area – which makes me think the winner is likely to come from one of those three albums. So, if you’re a betting person and are still trying to decide where to put your money, my head says English Teacher’s debut is the album to back.

1. Crazymad, For Me by CMAT

But that is what my head says, my heart says something different. While a good part of me thinks English Teacher is the one to prevail tomorrow, the one I am really rooting for is Crazymad For Me by Irish singer-songwriter, Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson – AKA, CMAT.

Having finished as my 12th favourite Album of 2023, it’s a record that I still find myself frequently returning to almost a year later. In fact, if I was to redo that list today, it would be in the Top 5. This is because with each new spin it feels more and more like a modern classic, with songs like California, Rent, Where Are Your Kids Tonight and, of course, Stay For Something, all timeless in nature.

It’s not just me with a great affection for this record either. It’s another album that has seen huge love and acclaim over the last year, even getting nominated for the Irish Choice Prize back in March. Which brings me onto another important point regarding CMAT’s album within wider Mercury Prize folklore, and that is the fact that an Irish artist is still yet to win the overall prize. That’s right, despite plenty of nominations throughout the 30+ years it has been granted, an Irish artist is still yet to take home the coveted Album of the Year title.

So, with a jazz record finally winning in 2023 and bucking the long-standing trend, surely it is time for an Irish artist to be recognised as the overall winner. At a time as well where Irish music is thriving – just look at recent albums from the likes of Fontaines D.C., Kneecap, Sprints, NewDad and The Murder Capital, to name just a few – it feels like the right time. With CMAT’s incredibly infectious and warm personality, as well as her clear love for music, performing and mastering her songcraft, I couldn’t think of a more deserving person and artist to make this little piece of history.

That’s my thoughts anyway ahead of the annual ceremony tomorrow night; I guess we’ll soon find out as always just how close – or not close – I was with my predictions. Best of luck to all the artists and as ever, I look forward to watching!

Watch the 2024 Mercury Prize be presented on BBC Four tomorrow night from 8pm.

[pastanest]

if you’re wondering why I’m having to repost this, or why you were perhaps previously following me but no longer are, please refer to this post. I was able to retrieve this thanks to @iamburdened - thanks so much!! ♡

Daryl Dixon x she/her!reader

Something To Hold On To

Another night is spent in your half empty bed, staring out of the window, unable to sleep. Watching. Waiting. Desperate. The events that led you to this agonising repetition haunt you, ghosts of the past preventing your present from ever seeing a future, because it is unchanging now.

Denise’s death snapped something in Daryl, you knew it from the moment he got back that day, but you had never thought in a million years that anything would have the power to push him away from you. From your perspective, the death of a loved one brings you closer to the rest of the people you love, because it reminds you to cherish every moment with them, but for Daryl...it was different. You followed him all the way to the gate that day, trying to persuade him not to go out there because you knew what he could be risking. Usually, you were the one person guaranteed to get through to him, it had been that way since the farm, when the group found out where Sophia had been all that time. You were the only one that Daryl couldnt snap at, for some reason he had restraint around you. But that day at the gate, he lost it.

“The hell ya think yer doin’? You dont own me, I aint yers, who were we tryin’ to kid thinkin’ any of this was worth it?! Im better off by my damn self, ya don’ get a say in what I do, aint the boss of me. Run back to yer house, yer garden, an’ block out reality like ya usually do! Never should’a let this go on fer so long.”

Daryl was in your face, throwing his arms up in big theatrical gestures, bringing the attention of everyone who happened to be around. You stood there broken in front of him, unable to say a word; what was there to say after hearing that? With a final scoff, he got on his bike, and he was gone.

The next and last time you saw him was at the lineup. Despite everything that he’d said to break your heart, you couldnt keep your eyes off of him, seeing him in such a state and not being able to go to him was the most painful thing you’d ever experienced. After Abraham, you were staring at Daryl for strength, to keep yourself together, to prevent you from looking at what was left of your friend. Obviously, an egotistical prick like Negan didnt take kindly to you refusing to look at him.

“Well, it looks like we’ve got a couple of lovers in our midst! ‘Scuse me darlin’, would you mind paying me a little attention? I did just brutally kill this poor ginger after all, the least you could do is admire my work!” Negan’s voice was almost flirtatious, in the most sadistic way, but when you continued to refuse him, he shoved his barbed-wire-bound bat in your face and yelled. “Take a damn look!”

And you got the surprise of your life. Daryl leapt to his feet, swinging at Negan and landing a hard punch to his jaw before he was held down. You cried out, trembling feverishly, thinking that Negan was going to kill Daryl for that, but instead he took Glenn. That, you couldnt look away from. The devastation in Daryl’s eyes told you that he blamed himself for Glenn’s death, and you would have done anything to reassure him, but then he was taken.

And every night since, you have been like this. Lying awake and staring out the window at the Alexandria gate, waiting for it to magically open and reveal Daryl, safe and sound. Trying to sleep with your paranoia over what was happening to him, whether he was even still alive, was an impossible feat in itself. But that combined with trying to decode Daryl’s actions, from brutally ending your relationship because he didnt want you anymore, to risking his own life just because a very threatening man was talking to you. Of course, you know Daryl is a kind man, he loves deep and cares so much more than he lets on, it isnt out of character for him to defend you after ending things with you. But, over the years Daryl has gotten a lot more level-headed, and in a situation like that, he could usually be trusted to hold it together better than pretty much anyone else; he’s an expert at bottling things up, after all. The fact that he lashed out like that, you’d only have expected a reaction of that ferocity from him being in love with you still, which completely counterbalanced what he’d said earlier that day. If he did still love you, why would he say such horrible things? None of it made sense, all you want to do is talk to him and find out what he meant, you need to see him, and you dont know how far away that day will be, if it’s even possible.

Night’s without Daryl are difficult, but you have some things to make the days a little easier. Rick keeps a close eye on you, knowing that what Daryl said really messed you up and that regardless, being without him is hard on you. He regularly asks you to join him in completing various tasks, or even to just watch Judith because it gives you something to distract yourself from it all. It was when you were distracted that the other things came into play.

Judith is sitting in your lap, listening to you intently as you read her a story. She’s just had her morning feed and is due for a name anytime now, reading to her always helps her drift off without a fuss.

“The prince found the sleeping princess, and he leant down to give her a kiss-“

And then, you are gone.

It was late, and you had promised yourself you were going to stay awake until Daryl had returned from the run. He could be gone until tomorrow morning, you didnt care, you were stubborn enough to stick it out. Or, so you thought. As the sun rose and Daryl crept through the front door, he found you passed out on the stairs. He laughed quietly to himself, but couldnt help feeling guilty at putting you in that position by being home late. As gently as he could, Daryl lifted you up into his arms and carried you up the stairs bridal style. He carefully laid you down in the bed you shared, kicking his shoes off before crawling in beside you, wrapping an arm around your waist and placing a soft kiss on your forehead, causing you to stir awake.

“You’re home!” Your sleepily slurred whispers were joyous, a welcome sound to Daryl’s own tired ears.

“Yeah I am, now get some rest, got the day off tomorrow.” Daryl mumbled.

You gasped and turned over to snuggle into his chest. “A whole day to makeout like teenagers?”

Daryl scoffed, blushing and burying his face in the pillow, making you laugh.

When you come back to yourself, Judith is asleep in your arms, and the tears you hadnt realised were rolling down your cheeks have started falling onto her little head. You’re quick to gently dry her head with the blanket around her, and then you wipe your own eyes with your hand.

Later, when Rick comes to take Judith and you’re jogging down the porch steps of the Grimes house, you happen to glance down the street. For maybe half a second, the perfect vision of Daryl standing in the distance, waving at you, stops you dead in your tracks. Tears fill your eyes, and by the time you’ve cleared them, he’s gone. Rick watches from the window as you wipe your eyes and hurry down the street in the opposite direction to your house, where you’d just told him you were going. You have to walk the long way round to avoid heading towards the place you’d just seen Daryl standing. Wherever he appears, that’s always the way.

Flashbacks and visions of him get you through the day, and as painful as they are, they make you feel something, they give you fleeting moments of joy until reality returns to you. Blocking out reality, that’s what Daryl said you did, but you’d never truly done that until now. At night, no flashbacks or visions ever came, and every night is eerily silent. Numb, empty, cold no matter how many blankets you wrap around yourself.

The one time you decided to distract yourself by leaving Alexandria to go on a supply run, Negan happened to show up, and he brought Daryl with him. Apparently, Negan asked Rick where you were, and Daryl looked up from the ground to watch Rick’s face as he answered.

“She left on a supply run this morning, she probably wont be back for a few days.” Rick said, holding Daryl’s gaze for just a moment so that Daryl knew two things: one, he was telling the truth, and two, you were alive.

“Well that is a shame, I brought Daryl here just for her!” Negan sighed dramatically, and then continued to go about his asshole business.

Ever since, you have stayed within the walls of Alexandria. You know that if you had been there that day, you would’ve lost your mind seeing Daryl, and probably gotten yourself in trouble for not being able to keep it together. But having the knowledge of it happening when you werent here, knowing it could happen again, however unlikely that may be, you have prepared yourself.

It’s been too long, you refused to count the days because with every one that passed it would feel like you were even further away from Daryl. At least now you know that Negan is keeping Daryl alive. Torturing him, yes, but keeping him alive.

When Rick asks you to come with him and a group to the Hilltop, you’re hesitant, wanting to stay at Alexandria just in case Negan comes back. You will gladly bargain your life for Daryl’s safe return home, and Rick knows that, which is exactly why he persuades you to come with him to the Hilltop. It takes a lot of persuasion, mainly bringing up the fact that one of your closest friends, Maggie, would love to see you. Rick will proudly admit to guilt-tripping you if it means he avoided you offering your life up to Negan.

The gates of the Hilltop open before you, and you’re already itching to go back to Alexandria, paranoid that Negan is back there with Daryl. The group follows Rick through the gates, and for a moment you’re occupied by your thoughts, until Rosita nudges you and gestures for you to head inside the walls. Maggie embraces Rick, and when Rick pulls away, he looks to his right and his eyes fill with tears. You follow his gaze. In a fraction of a second, your vision is blurred, and you’ve collapsed to your knees, in silent, sobbing hysterics. Maggie, Rosita and Tara are quick to huddle around you, offering you comforting words that you cant even hear. Your hands cover your face as you sob into them, you cant see or hear anything, but you can feel a pair of familiar eyes burning into you from afar.

Tara lets go of you to join Rick and Michonne in hugging him, welcoming him back.

Rick glances at everyone else, all of them having a good idea of what he’s about to say before he even opens his mouth. “Let’s head inside, they need to catchup.”

You feel the comforting arms leave you, and you lower your shaking hands from your face, wiping your eyes and slowly rising to your feet. It takes all the strength you have left to lift your head, to meet his eyes. Daryl. His name sets you on fire, goosebumps rippling all over your skin, your throat suddenly dry and heart pounding against your ribs.

He looks awkward, uncomfortable, like he’s holding back from something. You know him too well. You cross your arms over your chest and slowly walk over to him.

And despite everything, you manage to smile at him. “You’re really back?” You ask, voice somewhat hoarse from all the crying you’ve just done.

Daryl nods, not saying anything.

“I dont know what happened to you, but I am so, so sorry.” You tell him, your sincerity laced in every syllable, almost bringing yourself back to tears at the thought of what he could have gone through.

Daryl nods again.

You take a deep breath, preparing to say the words you’ve been planning. “And I want you to know that I’ve come to terms with everything, regarding us no longer being, well, us...and I get it, things change and dont always work out-“ You nod to yourself while avoiding his eyes, as though still trying to convince yourself. “-but I want you to know that I can put it all behind me, and I will.” You meet his eyes. “Because more than anything, I want to be here for you, for whatever you need.”

Daryl shakes his head, finally finding the courage to speak. “Stupidest thing I ever did.”

For a brief moment, the sound of his voice leaves you breathless, but you quickly regain control of yourself.

“What was?” You ask.

“Everythin’ I said to ya that day, I was fuckin’ stupid, an’ wrong.” Daryl admits, shaking his head again, angry at himself.

“Y-You were?” You stammer out, unable to believe what you’re hearing and in desperate need of an explanation.

Daryl stares into your eyes for a few seconds, and you can almost see him taking in the sight of you to beat himself over the head with, to relive this guilt and torture himself further.

He glances down at his shoes. “Thought I had the strength t’ push ya away, t’ try and protect you, but I realised that there aint nobody that’d try as hard as me to keep ya safe.” Daryl looks back up at you, holding your gaze, not shy about admitting his last sentiment. “I’d die fer you.”

Your eyes start filling with fresh tears of an entirely different meaning. “Daryl...”

Daryl shrugs you off, avoiding your eyes because he knows you can see right through him; you know how hard it is for him to talk about his feelings, but he’ll do it for you. “I know i’s too late, I took too damn long realisin’ what was good fer me. For all I know ya could’ve moved on already, but I wouldnt be able to live with myself if I didnt tell ya the truth.”

Then, you smile, and Daryl cant avoid looking at you any longer. The sight of your genuine smile has been his favourite memory to cling to in that cell, the one view he couldnt wait to see again, even if it was never directed at him after what he’d done. You take the single step necessary to stand toe to toe with him, and you ever so slowly lift your hands to cup his face. Daryl breathes a sigh of relief, his eyes immediately closing as he relaxes into your touch, instinctively, even after all this time.

“How could I ever move on from the man I’d die for?”

[the-silentium]

What if - Alternate Ending

Masterlist

Pairing: Wrecker x OC.

Words: 12.5k words

Warnings: Angst, fluff, Gore, swearing, halo canon violence, RvB characters, major character death.

A/N: And I am finally back with the promised alternate ending. I've been gone a while, a lot happened since I last posted a chapter here. Mainly, I got a spine surgery and struggled with writer block. Fortunately, I had this chapter 90% done already so I forced myself to finish it, so at least I could share what would have happened if Layla went back to the Halo universe. Please enjoy ~

____________________

Echo had seen some bad missions in his time under General Skywalker's command. A couple of times, the thought that he wouldn't make it out had crossed his mind and urged him to do more; run faster, shoot more droids, watch more closely his and Fives' backs. It had worked fine until the Citadel where he lost everything. Then he was found again and the Batch showed him that there were crazier plans out there that he had yet to experience. He was certain he had felt the caress of death twice as often as he did in his first battalion. Surviving this many times had been a feat he dared not dwell on too much. 

He didn't want to dare the odds to get back at them for winning so often. All the time, even. Then again, faith always had a cheap trick up its sleeve. Be it a surprise battalion of droids blocking their escape route or a particularly complex encryption, the Batch was no stranger to those last-second complications. 

They pulled through no matter what. 

They had to.

Sweat ran down Echo's spine when he hit an unbreakable firewall. He had taken way too long to get to this point and he wasn't even close to accessing the files needed. Who knew hacking into old Republic databases would be so hard for him, a former soldier who dedicated his life to the Jedis and their war. It shouldn't have taken this much time. Every other Republican file he had previously hacked had been rather easy since he knew the configurations and standard structure of the files and encryption. 

This one was particularly hard to crack. Impossible even. His concentration wasn't optimal with his brothers fighting the enemy a few feet away, but it wasn't anything he wasn't used to. Cid had been quite vague about the information she was after, she only told them where to hack and requested a whole unencrypted file. 

Sure, he had tried to export the data onto an external drive to work on the encryption later, however, the security system interlaced with the requested code made sure that everything would be deleted as soon as he moved, copied, or even open a single file. 

"Better be worth the credits." He mumbled under his breath. Infiltrating a top-secret Republic base that was coincidentally deep within Empire control was nothing to take lightly. She better pay them well on this one. 

He forced his way through another trail in hope of finding something that would satisfy their employer. Bits and pieces of research passed through his fingers like sand. He saw the information passing through his mind but could never get a hold of it. That device had been an extremely important asset for the Jedis to put so much effort into hiding every drop of information about it. 

Spatial manipulation. The words disappeared out of his reach before he could focus on them. Frustrated, he pushed again, opened doors, and forced his way in by destroying firewall after firewall. 

Teleportation. He nearly got a grasp of this one, but the file erased itself before he could disable the security protecting the data. 

Echo groaned. He felt like a pawn being pushed around. Played and mocked. That is until he found a back door. A breach in the security system. He smirked. Finally, he had found it. 

//Activation? 

The question floated through his brain and the clone felt a new wave of adrenaline rush through his veins. 

//No. 

He couldn't know for sure what he would be activating.

His curiosity on the matter was crushed when a door behind him closed abruptly and all members of the Bad Batch formed a barrier between him and the sealed-off door. 

"Disconnect yourself." Hunter turned to face him momentarily. Echo could hear the strain in his voice. He had taken too long to fulfill his goal. "We're leaving." 

Echo hesitated. He was torn between obeying orders and letting go of the only progress he had made. It wasn't only their bounty that they were abandoning, but important Jedi research. Those findings could perhaps help the fighters who dared face the Empire. The soldier deep within his genes wanted to fight that oppressing enemy, even when they clearly couldn't in their actual situation, not with Omega amongst them who could get hurt at every corner. 

With a heavy sigh, Echo disconnected from the system and joined his brothers. 

"We have to shoot our way out." 

He could hear Hunter's inner conflict. They had all agreed that Omega should remain with Cid, but she had another idea in mind. How the kid avoided Hunter's detection was still a mystery. One thing was certain, the sergeant was beating himself over it and they were all worrying for their younger sibling's wellbeing. 

Echo moved behind Omega whose sheepish expression had long ago morphed into a focused one. She was ready to follow orders. If only she had done the same hours ago. 

"Perhaps we won't have to." Tech frowned when he analyzed the security feed displayed on his datapad. "They are retreating." 

"They are?" 

Dread filled Echo at the possibilities a strategic retreat could mean. None of them were good. 

"It would seem that they used our defensive position to their advantage. While we were here, another squad trapped the power supply room with explosives." 

"We have to lea-"

"I'm afraid we don't have time." He showed them the live feed of the generator room, the detonator showing a meager six seconds. 

Frenetically, Echo jumped and connected himself back to the systems to force his way back to the only thing that his mind could think of. 

//Activation? 

Spatial manipulation. The typed words flashed behind his eyelids. Teleportation. 

Echo swallowed the lump blocking his throat. Please take us back to the ship.

//Activation?

//Yes. 

_______________

Echo groaned when fingers poked him in the face. He felt sick. Not that sickness he got when he ate something bad, but the kind when Tech was piloting like a madman on spice. Motion sickness.

His ears were slightly ringing. He could hear Omega's voice over the noise. She called out to him in such worry that his eyes shot open in alarm. He looked at her upside-down figure, noted the tears gathering in her eyes, and immediately forgot the stiffness in his muscles to pull her into a reassuring hug.

"What did you do?" Crosshair walked up to them. He nearly sounded accusing, which didn't sit well with Echo. 

“I activated the program.” He explained with his eyes still closed in the hope to chase away the ache growing in his skull. “I don't know what it was, but the files mentioned a teleportation device. I thought it could get us out of there.” And if Crosshair was still there to jab at him, then it must have worked, right?

A short sense of relief washed over him at the thought that he managed to save his siblings from their imminent death. Slowly, the clone opened his eyes and took in Omega’s state. She still clung to him, her own eyes shut tightly and a hand pinching her nose. He thought he felt her shake, but that could also have been Crosshair nudging him. 

"So you activate anything you can touch? Guess we're stuck in the middle of nowhere because of your amazing plan, Echo." The sniper remarked with a sneer. 

"Better that than being dead." He shot back, annoyed. This was another obstacle, nothing they didn't usually deal with. Sure, with the Empire lurking around everything was one thousand times more difficult, but not impossible. 

“Cut it off.” Hunter’s voice lacked any real command. It sounded like he was entranced, focussing on something else. Curious, Echo looked over Omega’s head. 

His stomach fell. 

Skeletons lingered on the ground in sickening puddles of what Echo assumed once was their flesh and organs. It soaked up the fabric of torned clothes and broken armor. The armor was a simplistic design and offered way less cover than the clone's armor. It reminded him of the armor worn by the Kota's militia. He also could recognize a human skull under the sideways helmet. His heart jumped in his chest at the thought that a Jedi General could have been here, or could still be around. 

The overall atmosphere was heavy. Heavier than what they were used to on the battlefield or on Kamino. Whatever device the Jedis were working on was either dysfunctional or came into use too late. Surely, they had entered specific coordinates into their programming with a purpose, one that the clone was certain was good. 

"I would say that the battle occurred years ago," Tech informed them, still leaning over the closest dead body. He tapped away at his vambrace, analyzing the data he recorded. "The threat is long gone." 

"What's that?" Omega whispered under her breath, catching everyone’s attention. 

Echo’s stomach rose to his throat. 

Unknown aliens lay on the floor in dry, blue puddles, their mummified bodies surrounded by small cylindrical objects and what looked to be an unknown type of blaster. Never before had he seen species looking like those. 

One of them was tall, bipedal, and had blueish armor covering its lizard-like body. Four mandibles formed its mouth, their sharp teeth in full display. Four digits were closed around a purple item that looked very much like a weapon of some sort.

Others were smaller, more or less reptilian-like. One of the species had a thicker build, its skin a dark purple shade. Some of them had masks over the bottom half of their faces while others didn’t, showing a series of sharp, pointed teeth. Their arms seemed oversized compared to the rest of their bodies, and full of small barbs that Echo was certain were sharp enough to cut flesh. 

The last specie he noticed was lean and muscular, their bodies covered by scales and feathers. Their avian-looking mouth was full of sharp teeth and ended on a hooked beak. 

Tech approached the tallest alien, scanning it over. Instinctively, Echo waited for Tech’s imminent info dump of the unknown species. He remained silent.

Echo frowned. It was unusual for his brother to keep quiet on unfamiliar knowledge. He was always keeping them as informed of their enemies or environment as possible to keep the drawbacks as low as possible. This was a first. Was it possible that his know-it-all brother was at a loss?

With a quick look around, Echo noticed that the room was filled with bodies. Way above a hundred of them, humans and aliens alike. What looked like ships were stationed not too far from them, their class foreign to him. 

"Karking hell…" Crosshair's whisper gave him goosebumps. Something was seriously wrong if Crosshair of all people was taken aback. 

Added to Tech’s unusual behavior…

"I…” Echo’s head snapped in Tech’s direction as soon as he heard the hesitation in his voice. A cold sweat ran down his spine. “Don’t think we are in the right universe anymore." 

His heart skipped a beat. What could Tech even mean? Did he mean systems? The silence following the statement was deafening. Echo didn't understand why no one was correcting Tech or even asking for clarifications. What he said literally made no sense.

"Those are Covenants." Echo frowned at Tech’s words. He couldn't recall ever hearing this term before. 

"Covenants?" He asked, at a total loss.

Tech hesitated and looked at Hunter. Echo didn’t know if it was for guidance or confirmation, but he received none from the sergeant who remained fixed on the alien laying at his feet.

"Aliens from another dimension. Layla's dimension." Tech briefly looked at him before returning to look over the body of the imposing alien. 

Even though his brother had said it like it was the most logical thing in the universe, Echo knew that Tech often overlooked that not everyone was well-versed in random details and specifics. This fact was accurate the majority of the time. This time around though, Echo couldn't stop but notice that only he and Omega were confused about the whole another dimension thing. 

Also, the name was familiar. He knew he had heard it before. Was it during one of their many nights at 79s? Or from the GAR? Deep within himself, he knew the name belonged to someone powerful. The word impressive also came to mind. He heard Fives calling that name in his head, his voice full of amusement. I've never seen the General as close to a heart attack as when you've slashed that spider droid down, Layla! 

"Wait. Layla, the freelancer with a light sword?" He hadn't thought of her in forever. She had left their battalion and soon after he got caught at the Citadel. 

"Yes." Hunter snapped out of it and scratched the back of his neck. "A space-traveling device sent her to our universe and the Jedi repaired it to send her back. Must have been the same program that you activated." To Echo's relief, there was no anger in his voice, only worry which was not much better. 

He would have believed that his brothers were playing an elaborate plan on him if only there weren't litteral bodies and unknown aliens scattered around him at this very moment. Space-travel was a crazy concept, but he also couldn't explain how the Force worked. 

"So, those Covenants, what are they?" 

"Aggressive species that are at war with mankind,” Tech explained. “I, unfortunately, don't have much information on them other than the very basics." He grabbed a device from a nearby alien body and stood up. It looked awfully like a droid-popper. 

"The basics?" 

Tech glanced momentarily at Omega. A flash of worry quickly disappeared behind the glare of his glasses and he moved his attention back to the purple sphere in his possession. 

"We should avoid them as much as possible in order to remain… whole. And alive." That he had figured out by himself. "Our best chances of survival would involve finding Layla." 

Hunter hummed. "I agree, but eh last I heard, her coming back here meant a near-death sentence." His sergeant approached Tech and reached out to the round device. Right before he managed to take the item from Tech's hands, the engineer pushed a button on the side of it. The device was instantly engulfed in blue fumes and a high-pitched noise filled the room.

“Tech!” Hunter’s yell covered Echo’s sharp breath intake. He might not know what this device was but a word rang in his head. Explosive.

In a heartbeat, Tech threw the device as far as he could while Wrecker grabbed Omega to hide her behind his body. In a crouch, Echo looked as the device bounced on top of a crate, stuck to the side of a ship, and exploded in a flash of blue-white light, charring the metal and the bodies within its detonation zone.

“This was unexpected.” Tech matter-of-factly broke the stunned silence that fell onto their squad. 

“Was it? This is a battlefield!” Hunter yelled, his arms open to his sides to show his surroundings. 

“I meant that the grenade stuck to the ship, but not to the crate. Or even to my hand.” He further explained after sparing a quick glance at his hand. “But back to Layla. Your assumption is accurate, although she did mention that this universe was desperate to win after more than two decades of war. I am almost positive they would not dispose of a capable soldier like her. She might have been reconditioned– in the literal sense of the word, not the Kaminoan way. Or even sent to another hopeless mission." 

With a groan, Hunter dropped it. 

"Let's assume that she theoretically is still alive, how do you plan on contacting her?" Crosshair asked from his spot at the back of the group, his eyes trained on the upper levels of the hangar.

"Our comms are void of any outside signals, so we cannot reach her through her GAR-issued channel." While using his scanner, Tech ventured farther away from them and away from the ships. 

“Could we try to reach her through their comms?" Wrecker wondered.

With a move of his head, Hunter ordered them to follow Tech’s lead. Wrecker moved Omega into the crook of his elbow to keep her as free of the gore as possible. There was no way she could escape the smell even if she had closed her eyes to keep from seeing more remains and pressed her face to Wrecker's neck. The least they could do was to make sure she wouldn't come in contact with any of it. 

Echo walked behind the two of them, his blaster at the ready. He managed to calm down his mind when he noticed that their feet were the only marks left on the sticky, gory crust caked on the floor. It reassured him to think that the enemy was long gone. 

“It wouldn’t be a good idea to send a comm-wide message in the hope to get to her. Many things could go wrong. She mentioned that she had to learn Basic, which means that the only thing others would understand would be her name, drawing attention to her. Additionally, we could be perceived as a threat for having infiltrated their comms or even-” 

“We got it Tech.” Hunter cut him off. “You sound like you have a plan.”

With a nod, Tech stepped over a skeleton. “This is because I do have one.” 

“What is it?” Crosshair pushed.

“I might be mistaken, but if my theory is correct, we should find the remains of Layla’s squad in this complex. Squads share a closed line, which would be a safer way to attempt communicating with her.” 

“Oh.” Wrecker’s step faltered. Echo frowned in worry. 

“And if your theory is wrong?” Crosshair asked. 

“Then we’ll have to go comm-wide and hope for the best. But do not worry, I am fairly certain that this battlefield is the result of Operation: LEVIATHAN.”

“How do you know?” 

“Kai told me more about it.” 

Tech took them into a hallway, his steps careful, but definite. How he managed to look over the scene without faltering made Echo wonder if he had not already seen this very place.

"Alright. I don't sense anyone around here but let's stay alert, boys." Hunter cut to the front line and with a shake of his head to clear his mind of all this carnage, he walked deeper into the compound. 

They soon reached a junction and followed Tech's directions through the left corridor, toward the nearest power source he could detect. The battle must have been heavier here. Sections of the walls were missing, pink shards covered the floor and creaked under their boots, dark stains covered the standing walls and they had to step over an alarming quantity of bodies. The more they progressed, the more Omega had to press her hand to her mouth and nose to keep the smell away. 

Echo looked into the nearest hole in the white wall. His eyes recognized more human remains and transparisteel covering the floor. Some skeletons, Echo noticed, didn’t have any armor or blaster, leading him to the conclusion that those victims were civilians. The clone could count at least a dozen in the hallway. 

They looked for what felt like hours, up a few floors then down again, until Hunter brought them outside through a hole in a wall. Green grass greeted them. The field wasn't level, a clear clue that a battle once raged. The multiple craters in the dirt were akin to heavy artillery damage, the buildings they just exited seemed like they had subsided some damage with their burned spots marked into their cream-colored exteriors. A majority of the broken windows and vehicle wrecks were beginning to be claimed by the environment. 

Echo heard wiggling before he saw Omega jump off Wrecker’s arms. 

"Stay close." He warned, still unable to trust this place even though Hunter didn't detect anyone around. 

She nodded and latched onto Wrecker's hand who was busy looking at the scenery around him. The sun was shining high in a clear blue sky. The soft waves of the nearby ocean lapped at the beach, offering some calm to the carnage site. Omega grabbed a handful of golden sand before letting the grains fall between her fingers with wide, amazed eyes. 

A sudden sound drew the clones' immediate attention. Every blaster turned to the source, a column of water that leaped from the ocean fell back into it. Following the water jet, a set of gray-blue tails breached the water, sweeped into the air and returned to the depths. 

"What was that?" Omega asked, her eyes even bigger than before.

"An aquatic creature of some sort." He answered as best he could. Judging by the size of the tails, the beast must be humongous. 

"Wrecker, Echo!" Hunter's voice sliced through the comms. "Stay closer." 

Sure enough, the other half of their group had ventured farther ahead and were now standing before four floating objects. In a jog, Echo joined his brothers with Wrecker and Omega in tow. Now closer, he noticed that the objects were in fact helmets held on top of weapons shoved into the ground. Graves.

Tech already had one helmet in hands and plugged into his datapad. The engineer typed away in concentration while Echo analyzed the rest of the scene. He didn't want to touch any of the helmets, feeling like this would be disrespectful to the fallen. The grass had already grown back over the graves, however the length did not match his surroundings, letting him know that bodies were now resting beneath their feet. 

In the corner of his eyes, he noticed Omega holding one of the helmets. He was tempted to ask her to put it back, but the softness of her fingers as she lightly traced the heavy damage fracturing the visor and metal as well as the deep sadness in her eyes pulled him to a stop. She knew what she was doing and did not take any of it lightly. He then remembered that despite being stuck in a lab on Kamino, she knew war too. Only, her angle was different than theirs. 

Omega turned the bucket and grabbed a colorful flimsi from within. She wowed and showed them a picture of five humans in weird blacks. A black-haired woman stood behind three men and a woman. She had them all in a hug from behind while they all smiled. The red-headed woman showed her fingers in a V motion, a blond man hit his fist to the palm of his other hand while the two remaining men sat relaxed, one holding a knife while the other held a box with a big, red cross on it. 

"It's not holographic." Omega pointed out while rotating the picture in all angles. "The colors are nice." 

Without a word, Wrecker slowly took the item from her hands and turned it over to analyze it further. 

How his brother handled the picture caught Echo’s attention. There has been only a handful of times when his brother has been that cautious about anything. Even more curious, he was not looking the whole picture over, he was focussed on a single spot. 

"Wrecker? Are you okay?"

His brother blinked like he just woke up from a dream and looked at him. "Eh.. yeah. I mean… not really. But I'll be fine." 

"Are you sure, big guy?"

"Yeah…" The way he trailed off was so uncharacteristic of his usual cheery attitude that Echo had a sudden urge to touch him in hope to convey his support. He was still pondering about the significance of the picture for his brother when Wrecker carefully folded the flimsi on the existent fold line and safely tucked it in his own helmet, leaving Echo dumbfounded.

________________

Tech examined the side of the helmet and sure enough, the cards with the triangle in the middle were painted in white over the deep blue shade of the armor. 

They were Layla's teammates. She had been here and had buried them herself. A quick look around confirmed that no other graves were dug and it couldn't be a coincidence that these were all members of the same team. Her team. He remembered her breakdown and wondered if being thrown back where it all happened, seeing their bodies and burying them had broken her all over again. 

Tech remembered the carnage they saw earlier and wondered if that was why she had kept them at bay so long. He had noticed her effort into keeping walls around herself, walls that they ultimately tore down because solving impossible tasks was what they did best. They were witnessing the outcome of the worst day of her life and some small part of him understood where she came from. 

He got to work on the electronic panels of the helmet, connecting it to his vambrace to access the comms system. It was harder than he remembered without Kai translating the unknown language for him. He hoped that the communication channels were coded the same as back then, he remembered the way to gain access to the correct network and which channel he had to connect their own to in order for Layla to hear and talk with them.  

"I'm in," Tech informed the team. He couldn't help but glance at Wrecker in wonder at what would happen next. 

________________

It had been a while since she last saw this planet. Last time was when she had used the cube to flee the despair ever growing in her chest. She couldn't say that she missed it one bit. Not after everything that happened there and everything that followed. 

That planet was tainted with blood and haunted by painful memories. 

"Did you fucking hear what I said?" The accusatory voice next to her was way too loud for her to possibly ignore. 

She looked at Gates without a word. 

"Of course not, since when do you listen to me?" Gates scoffed in offense. "Do you fucking know how often the spaghetti meatballs is on the menu in that damn army? Once in a blue moon, that's how often! I'd almost forgotten how that damn sauce tasted like and lemme tell you, it wasn't as good as my mom's cooking but compared to the other shits they give us to eat, it was like a fucking filet mignon." His finger pointed at her accusingly and Layla briefly wondered if he was able to shoot with his left hand. "Only had one bite when you fucking showed up and ordered us after you. Whatever we're doing here Regan, it better be good. Like killing-those-Covenant-fucks-for-good good."

At this point Layla couldn't tell if the fire in her blood was originating from Gates' tirade, her first trip back to Bounty after her cowardly escape from her heartbreak or the fact that Kai intercepted a weak incoming signal from the Deltas channel. 

She couldn't even believe she had once appreciated that soldier. Now, all she could think about was different ways to shut him up. 

War changes everyone, she soberly thought. 

It has never been said explicitly, but Layla knew he was part of ONI's plan to keep a close eye on her. He wasn't the one reporting abnormal behaviors to the higher ups, Ortez was, being the silent observant and extremely by-the-book soldier that he was. It only turned out that those two survived a crazy amount of crazy missions together and for this reason were never separated. She had tried to have them transferred to another squad, but they were now a trio until death did them apart. 

So far Ortez had had an easy job. She never did anything out of UNSC's standards. She killed Covenants, ate and slept when needed and attended briefings. She had destroyed the cube as soon as she had regained consciousness on Bounty and became aware of her surroundings, and never talked about it again. In order to protect the Galaxy that offered them shelter, Kai had gone ahead and wiped every bit of information about the last two years. The knowledge of another conquerable universe was safely hidden within Layla's mind, where ONI could never access it. As far as ONI knew, she had survived two desolate years on Bounty, living off the meager rations of the compound until her AI managed to fix a comm channel strong enough to reach Command and request an evac. 

The pelican wasn't fully grounded, yet Layla pushed the button to lower the ramp. Her body stiffened in anticipation of a worrying hand that would reach out and stop her from jumping the last meters separating her from the surface, but it never came. She ignored the pain pinching her heart and jumped. 

She forced her body into a false sense of clear determination and made her way through the street separating her from the complex. Memories tried to destabilize her with their vivid screams and scarlet tints. She could faintly hear the Marines following her steps, plasma bolts raining all around them. She reached the back corner of the building and stopped. 

Red. So much red. 

"Take your time." Layla's breath deepened as she acknowledged Kai's words. The Spartans weren't with her yet, she had time to settle. The DMR in her hands stopped shaking, her jaw ached when she released the tension, the tingles in her feet faded away and her mind cleared of all the fog keeping it hostage. There was nothing she could do now to change the scenery on the beach.

With a final grounding breath, she turned the corner. Four graves stood out from the peaceful nature, every helmet in place like the day she left them. Cautiously, Layla made her way to them, fully expecting to find an elaborate trap set up by a Zealot with the help of a Huragok, their favorite engineers. There was nothing but untouched helmets and guns. 

She kneeled before them while keeping an eye out for signs of trouble. The grass around the graves had been crushed recently. Someone had been here and sent out a signal using one of the helmets. Why, she had no idea. The only thing she knew for sure was that it involved her personally, the comm line that was used was closed to anyone that was not a Delta. 

Her finger tensed on the trigger. Three yellow spots entered the radar's field, followed by two red signatures. Allies with enemies. 

Yellow spots didn't make any sense with Gates and Ortez still behind, but she did expect enemies. 

"Could those three use the Delta's signature to alter their own?" She wondered under her breath. 

"Negative. I looked deeper into their signatures and the allies are identified as 99-1, 99-2 and 99-4, not Deltas." Kai informed her. 

Layla's heart stopped. Was she dreaming?

She glanced up and ghosts looked right back at her. She didn't dare blink, in fear that they would fade or not, she was not sure which. 

Multiple things happened when the Bad Batch came into view. Layla's eyes widened in surprise, a weak, fluttery feeling bubbling in her chest. Her joy was quickly crushed by a more gripping feeling that left her nauseous. Guilt gripped at her stomach and threatened to topple her over at the sheer intensity of it. 

That was, until Gates and Ortez who had jogged after her the whole way lifted their weapons towards the clones. 

Out of pure reflex, Layla's arms shot up to lift both guns towards the sky, her own clattering to the earth. Gunshots exploded into her ears, along with the soldiers' surprised gasps, a high-pitched yelp and Gates' colorful language when both guns slipped from their grasp due to the speed of her intervention. Out of fear she did put more strength into her move than necessary, she had to give them that. 

"What the hell are you doing Regan? That's fucking Insurrectionists!" Gates hissed.

She grabbed his wrist when he reached for his pistol. This time she put some effort into controlling her strength. 

"Lower your weapons." Her snarl surprised even herself. "They're not Insurrectionists." 

"And how would you know that? Civillians don't walk around in fucking armor." He fought to pull his arm out of her grip. She momentarily tightened her grip in warning before releasing him. 

"I fought with them before. They're on our side." 

She looked back at the clones, took in their defensive stances, their weapons pointing at the ground but ready to aim at them at any moment and sighed. She could already feel the heartache creeping in, burning her as fiercely as the tears streaming down her cheeks.  

The urge to turn on her heels and walk away was also becoming more prominent with every passing second. Like the coward that you are. Her teeth sank through the tender flesh of her lip and drew blood. Man up and face the consequences of your actions.

"Stay here." She ordered her men before crossing the space between her and her old team. She could not flee this time. She still remembered the reasons behind her departure and the Spartan still suffered every time she thought about them. A borderline painful heartbeat squeezed her chest when her eyes landed on a particular clone. 

She forced her gaze away and noticed a new soldier amongst them, one of the two that her armor detected as enemies. She took in the kama and the cybernetic arm. No clone she had met before had those attributes. Was he a new defective clone? A sad kind of joy spread through her, he was in the right team, she personally knew it. 

And they overcame your departure. Because you are expendable. She swallowed hard. 

Despite the thick layer of titanium covering her body, their gazes burned holes into her like she was bare before them. All the feelings she had felt that night when she held the cube in her hands for countless hours came back in a swing. Uselessness. Shame. Despair. Disapointment. Now, she had to add nervousness to the list. How had they taken her betrayal? Despite asking herself that question every day for a majority of a year, she never got an answer. Right at the moment, she found that she might have been better without knowing at all. 

But fleeing wasn't an option anymore, was it? She couldn't run. Not again. Not this time. Maybe if she had forgotten all about them she wouldn't have thought more about shooting them down as Insurrectionists, but she knew who they were. They once shared a bond and Layla had let herself care for them. Deeply. She might be as nervous and scared as the day the Covenant invaded her home planet, but she wasn't about to let another of her friends die. Instead she pushed down the lump in her throat and stopped at a more than reasonable distance. 

"What are you doing here?" 

She mentally winced at her own words. She hadn't intended to sound so harsh. Or bothered. Her choice of words was even worse. All her brain could think of was are you all okay or I'm so glad to see you all again, because she was relieved to know that the Clone War hadn't claimed their lives even though it still could. 

She had been worried. She had also been fighting every second she had been back, be it against the Covenants or ONI– not that this was the Batch's fault, the final choice had been hers after all– but she was exhausted and their presence here meant complications that she would have to deal with. 

"It's good to see you again, Layla." Sergeant Hunter moved his gaze from Ortez who didn't need to be told twice to lower his weapon and settled on her, his own trigger finger relaxing slightly. 

Her mind stopped for a second. A blissful second where her worries faded away and she could almost see herself back at the Marauder's entrance, marching up the stairs after another successful mission. Oh how she missed that ship. If she was honest, the crate in the Marauder's hangar was way better than sharing a bunk room with Isaac Gates. 

Her fist closed on thin air. She couldn't get distracted. Not during a crucial moment like this one. 

Although…

"Likewise." She replied, her eyes darting on the Sergeant's right to find a familiar helmet staring right back at her. "I take it that the Jedis lied then? They were supposed to destroy the cube's data." 

It was a blessing that the Spartans beside her couldn't understand Basic. An even bigger one was that she hadn't forgotten how to speak the otherworldly language after not using it for a year. 

"They had it stored in a securised archive room. Nearly killed us to get the info." Sergeant Hunter explained. 

She raised an eyebrow in confusion. "You stole from the Jedis?" 

"That's a long and complicated story. The Jedis are dead." 

Time stopped completely around them. This couldn't be possible. It didn't make sense. She thought back to the Council who welcomed her into their world, to the alien Jedis who patiently tried to coax her into being comfortable around them, their mind tricks and their knowledge and their wisdom and everything! General Kenobi and Tano and Koon and all of those cute apprentices and for God's sake, even Skywalker! Were they really dead? She deeply hoped that they were not. 

And Crosshair? Where was he?

"The Clone War is over then." Was all she managed to say. She could not acknowledge more loss. Not right now. At least she could rejoice that the clones' lives were not put at risk anymore, soldiers without war and droids to hunt them. 

"So Regan, what's happening?" Gates called from his spot 12 meters away. "Not everyone speaks whatever language you're all babbling. Seriously. I've never heard that kind of shit before." 

Layla ignored Gates' questions, he could use his equipment to listen in and speculate all he wanted. Although she had to admit that his intervention was exactly what she needed to get her head back in the game. 

"So the cube's data sent you here? Do you know how to get back?" She sure hoped they knew although she was also aware that should they have a plan to go back, they would have done it by now. It seemed that they needed her to do it. 

"We were hoping you could get us back." Sergeant Hunter breached the tight formation with a single step forward. 

She swallowed hard. "I destroyed the cube. There's no way out of–" Layla frowned at the sight of a young girl peeking behind Wrecker's form. "Here." 

Why they had a kid with them was a mystery, one that she wasn't certain she wanted uncovered. Maybe the clones were in the middle of a rescue mission when it all happened. That must be it. A weird rescue mission that also involved stealing data from an archive room. 

She forced herself to drop it. This was not important. 

"We got here without it. Could Kai use the program Echo activated to send us back?" Tech wondered. 

Her eyes widened. It had been so long since she had heard that name. She remembered the kind clone who offered her an opening for her escape of 79s; she had once considered him something close to a friend. What she didn't remember was the cybernetic arm. She bit her cheek in an effort to keep herself from asking what happened. 

"It could be possible depending on the program, the tools required to make it work and whether or not Echo remembers the coding." She told them. Tech sorted through his pouches to find the AI connector he developed back then.

"I got my name, but nothing else." Kai popped up into her HUD. "Did I know them?" He wondered, curiosity written all over his face. 

"You did." She confirmed.

"What did I do exactly?" Tech asked, frowning in confusion. 

"Sorry, I was talking to Kai. He had to wipe his memory to keep your world off the radar, so he's a lil' lost." She explained to the clone as she pulled the AI chip from her helmet and Kai appeared in her palm. "Override command: Plan 99." 

Kai's holographic body pixelated for a few seconds, the wave of locked information now crashing over him. He stilled with a hand on his head and a frown. His eyes moved from the ground to the men before him and a smile stretched his lips. 

"Tech! Hunter! You're all alright! Wrecker! Hi!" He beamed and Layla felt a weight she was not aware was there lift from her shoulders. "Oh. Is Crosshair ok?" He worriedly looked around their ranks to find the grumpy clone. 

"He is fine." Tech reassured him. "Although I can't say he is pleased by our current situation." 

"That's understandable." The small AI grinned when she handed over the chip. 

It was curious how she hadn't hesitated to surrender the AI to the clones when she had once felt betrayed by those very same men and yet she would never pass him to Gates or Ortez, not even for a second. 

"Hey! Regan! The hell are those guns and what the hell is he doing?" Gates nearly shouted as Tech plugged the other end of the connector in Echo's helmet. She narrowed her eyes in annoyance and curiosity. 

"None of your business, First Lieutenant." She called back. 

He pursed his lips, a glare burning in his eyes. Ortez grabbed his partner's shoulder when his mouth opened, a clear warning to watch his words. He didn't listen and shook him off. "Is that what weird shit ONI warned us of? Maybe we should just shoot you down for sympathizing with the Insurrectionists." 

Layla gnashed. This was a bad situation as it was, she did not need Gates to throw gasoline on the fire. The clones were out in the open and had nowhere to get to cover while she dealt with the threat that was her chaperones if need be. One wrong movement and Crosshair would open fire, starting a shooting mess that she was right in the middle of. 

"The Pelican detected three Phantoms entering the atmosphere." Layla cursed at Kai's warning. Why did everything have to go South? 

"Three Phantoms incoming." She relayed to her men. Gates cursed loudly. 

"We might have triggered some sensors." Ortez pulled Gates back a few steps and put himself between the two. "What are your orders Captain?" 

“We’ll take cover in the peripheral buildings to-”

“Her orders? I’m not-”

"First off, they're not Insurrectionists." She advanced towards the daring, orange trimmed Scout who took the tiniest step back. "Second, if you think you can manage three troop drops on your own, then be my guest and shoot me down.” She challenged. 

She knew he was aching to do as she said and probably would have if it wasn’t for the fact that three drops were too much for two men and Ortez who grabbed his partner before pulling him towards the nearest exit, groaning and cursing. 

With a sigh to let out some frustration, Layla turned towards the GAR soldiers who looked positively on edge. 

"Enemies are incoming. I highly recommend that you stay back and let us clear the area. And please, take care of Kai." 

"You know us. You know we won't let you fight alone." Hunter crossed the distance separating them, his team in tow. 

"I do know you. And, no offense, but I also know that you're outclassed by the Covies. They're not droids, Hunter." She turned her back to them. "And I'm not alone." 

A heavy hand fell into her shoulder, preventing her from walking away. 

"Let us help." 

She gulped, her gaze straight ahead. "What about the kid? You'd put her in danger." 

"She's sturdier than she looks." The grip did not waver, nor did it tighten. 

With a sigh, Layla relented and motioned them to follow her with a move of her head. "Guess you'll need a small briefing then." 

She heard Hunter call for Crosshair on their comms and inform him of the situation. He also ordered his brother to join them as fast as he could, no need to put him at risk of getting jumped by Covenants while alone. 

"Your blaster bolts can kill them, however it might require more than one bolt. Keep your stun mode off," She glanced at Hunter out of the corner of her eye. He looked right back at her, a memory of a conversation passing between them. "They won't hesitate to kill you, so you shouldn't either. If you see a small, flashing, purple ball, duck or jump away. That’s a grenade. Don’t try to catch it or kick it, it will stick and blow you to bits.” 

Tech hummed. "We encountered this particular explosive. It is interesting that it does not stick to the thrower or certain objects, like it has a mind of its own."

Bewildered, Layla's steps slowed momentarily. "You threw one of those?"

"Yes." 

"Were you… attacked?" Kai hadn't found any sign of Covenant activity in the area prior to their landing and she knew that the UNSC had abandoned Bounty for the time being. 

"No, I simply desired to test a theory." He pushed his glasses up his nose. 

She resumed her pace, following the beacon that was Gates’ rant. "Okay. Well. Eh… a venting coolant keeps it from sticking to the thrower so the person to prime it is safe, but after that, anything made of flesh or metal that gets in contact with it will be stuck. Also, it might not happen, but some troops have a camouflage device like mine. So if the air starts moving, shoot it."

"If they really have the same technology as you, then we'll be fine." Hunter assured her and only then did she remember the effect the camouflage had on him. 

They arrived at a crossroad, where the ground was in the process of being trapped by Ortez’s expert hands and a bunch of charges. Gates was occupied scanning the sky. 

At that, she showed them the street opposed to Gates’ position. The clones slowly positioned themselves before looking up to get a better look at the Covenant forces gathering in the horizon. 

"And why would we listen to you?" Crosshair spat as soon as he joined their ranks, inches away from her face. The venom and disdain in his voice were welcomed by the Spartan. 

"All I'm trying to do is keep you alive. I've lost my whole team here once. It won't happen again if I can help it."

"We're not your team, now, are we?" He shot back and despite his face being covered, she knew he was shooting her down with his eyes.

"No you're not." Facing the consequences of rash decisions was always a pain. "Doesn't change that I don't want any of you to die." 

She turned around, DMR in hand. Footsteps followed her on her way to the facility's hangar. 

"I'm sorry." 

She flinched at Wrecker’s tone, so soft and pained. She would take Crosshair’s verbal abuse anytime and would even accept physical retribution with open arms for the pain she put his brothers’ through, but this tone was beyond what she could take.

From experience, she knew it hurt worse than an energy sword stab wound. 

"It was my fault, right?" He looked at the ground, his voice wavering slightly. 

"It was not." She refuted quickly. "I left because my place is here." Or that’s what I thought.

He groaned. "That's not true, your place was with us. We were a squad and a squad stays together." 

Her throat closed. How many times had she hoped to hear those words before she decided to use the cube?

"Now, that's not true either, Wrecker. I remember a time when all of you avoided me whenever we were off duty. I didn't really belong and I thought I'd save the time of asking for a transfe-" 

"That's what you thought?" He cut her off, dumbfounded. "It wasn't- we were not avoiding you! We were protecting you! From diseases! We were told to be careful." He walked up to her to the point where her weapon almost touched his chest plate. To the point where she saw her fingerprint on the side of his helmet. 

"I got vaccinated." She sighed and forced herself to step back and reach the closest Warthog. "I was protected." 

"But Tech said vaccines were not always effective. They helped, but you could still get sick." 

She looked back at him and noticed his heterochromic eyes filled with guilt. His helmet was now up on his head, holding perfectly still and Layla had an unconscious thought to pull it down to keep him as protected as possible. 

She knew her decision had been rushed and despite the long hours she spent with the cube in her hands, her decision had been half-thinked through. She had acted on emotions. She was a true Regan, her Mama once told her. As impulsive as they came, she had said. One would have thought that she would make good impulsive decisions since it was literally her last name, but as it turned out, it was a warning. Impulsive decisions would be her downfall.

"I-" 

The ground shook under the impact of an energy mortar, cutting her off. Layla ducked into the Warthog and tried the ignition. The vehicle roared to life on the third try. 

"Jump in!" She pointed at the passenger seat and he promptly joined her. With haste, she reversed out of the hangar and turned them around to regroup with their comrades. Wrecker wowed at the sight of the battlefield awaiting them. 

Together, the Phantoms managed to bring a little less than a regiment in addition to three Wraiths. She swallowed hard. Could they defeat 400 Covenants? A Spartan team would be fine, but they were clones from another universe. They were trained soldiers, but they were not trained to kill Covenants. She swallowed hard. They will have to do. They must. 

“So, what’s your genius plan, Captain?” Gates asked through the comms with the highest level of sarcasm he ever used with her. Not that she cared. She was more bothered by the quick English-Basic language transitions. 

She stopped near their position and got out, Wrecker following her lead. 

“Those guys will cover our backs." She pointed at the Bad Batch with her thumb. "We take the Warthog and you drop me as close to those tanks as you can and I'll take care of them before they collapse the buildings on our heads.”

"Wh- a- That's three enemy tanks!" His voice raised in disbelief. 

"I can see that." 

"Three! We are a recon and infiltration team! Not first liners!"

"Gates-" Ortez tried to calm the man but as expected, it didn’t help much. 

"You're batshit crazy, you know that?" Gates cut him off and moved slightly aside to keep eye contact with her. "I mean, Spartans have always been fucking crazy, but you-! Something's very wrong with you! It's like you're actively trying to die and fuck if I'm going to let you take me down with you. I have a fucking family Regan, one that I want to see again and if I fucking die because of you, mark my word I'll haunt your ass 'til you blow your brain out." He ranted, his face going more red with every second. 

She looked at him, unamused. Irritation itched at her fingertips. "You're done?" 

"No. I fucking hate you." He slammed his helmet back into place. 

"The feeling's mutual." 

_____________________________

It was pure chaos. He was used to chaos, but this was new. Despite Wrecker being the tallest out of the Batch, a lot of the enemy were towering over him. It was scary. Although it was way scarier to look at Layla fight the aliens head on while he was ordered to fight from the cover of the buildings line.

His feet were tingling in an urge to vault the window and run where she fought mercilessly to protect them. He had a need to join her side and help, and each time he felt the pull getting too strong he had to remind himself of Hunter's warning. 

You'll hinder her if you go. It could get her killed.

He knew it was true, that he severely lacked knowledge of this world and in the event that he did join her side, she would be focused on protecting him and not herself. 

It wasn’t that she was doing a bad job a protecting herself, she was tearing through the enemy lines like a hot knife through butter, but after a year passed staring down at her fingerprint staining the side of his helmet and hearing her laugh in his dreams, he desperately wanted to fix what his inaction broke. 

“Sniper deployment in the left building. The blue-gray one. Fifth floor.” Kai warned them, allowing Crosshair to take down the aliens before they got time to aim at the clones. 

Kai had linked the Batch's comms to Layla's so the AI could keep her updated on the aerial space traffic while working on the cube's code along with Echo, amongst other things. 

From the comms Wrecker could hear Layla dispatch what sounded like orders to her comrades and unlike earlier, it didn't sound like an argument.

It might have helped appease his mind to know that she was not alone on the front line if only he believed that her teammates would help her in case she needed it. It didn't look like they worked well together when all the orange armored guy did was to constantly snap at her. Even though they fought side by side flawlessly to take down two of the three tanks trying to shoot them down, Wrecker couldn't help but not trust them. 

All he could do to offer his support was kill aliens before they could get to her. 

He shot down a frenzied alien running towards them with two round devices in hands. An explosion resonated through the air, taking a few aliens down with it. Along with his brothers, they made quick work of the Covenants trying to flank the Spartans. 

"Two banshees will be on the battlefield in forty-seven seconds." Kai reported in both languages. 

"What's a banshee?" Crosshair and Hunter asked in sync.

"Enemy air support." He explained while Layla was already commanding her troops into what Wrecker thought was a new plan. He heard some resistance over comms which made him hyper aware of the scene before him. 

Layla grabbed a weapon off an alien's corpse and ran towards 'Gates'. As warned, two ships flew towards the battlefield, firing at the Spartans as best they could. The weapon in Layla's hand glowed green before she swiftly aimed behind herself and shot the incoming ship. Wrecker's stomach churned as Layla jumped on a shield generated by Gates' armor and using her momentum, he propelled her into the air towards the falling aircraft. 

His knees nearly buckled underneath him when she somehow opened the aircraft, pulled an alien out of it and took its place at the commands. 

"Wrecker! Focus on the fight." He should have been embarrassed at the fifth reminder to keep focus, but he truly wasn't. His focus, despite his best effort, was constantly drawned klicks away. 

In her stolen aircraft, Layla shot some troops until the other ship took chase and managed to land a few hits despite her maneuvers. 

“Crosshair.” Wrecker turned to his brother, his heart tight in his chest. 

“Already on it.” Came his reply and a few bolts precisely hit the back of the enemy ship. The fourth bolt caused an explosion of the left reactor which allowed Layla to loop around and finish the banshee. 

“Thanks, Helljumper.” 

“Anytime.” 

“Your rear is fuming.” Hunter warned. 

“I know.” Wrecker could hear the grin in her voice and found himself grinning back. “Watch this.”

The purple ship sped forward until she reached the active battlefield and it plunged down towards the remaining tank. Wrecker’s grin faded. A last bolt was shot towards the tank, right before Layla’s form jumped out of the vehicle in a free fall. Wrecker heard the tank and aircraft explode, however he couldn’t find any joy in them yet. 

“Are you okay?” He asked with worry. That fall was pretty high. 

“I jumped from higher, remember?” She reassured him and just then he spotted her running to cover. “I’m fine. Kai, how’s that code going?”  

“We’re progressing. I estimate the code to be completed in twenty minutes or so.” 

“Great job bud’. Tell me when you’re done.”

“Will do, Captain.” He nodded. "Just to let you know, in order to activate the coding to send them back, we will require a powerful energy source.” 

“Any ideas of a suitable power source?” She grunted as she punched an alien that got too close. 

“One that will not please Gates and Ortez.” 

She scoffed. “Let me deal with them.”

“Then our pelican will do just fine.” 

She chuckled over the comms and the hair on Wrecker’s arms rose. How he missed the sound. He realized that the laugh that resonated through his dreams was less endearing than the one he could hear while awake. 

As it happened many times that day, Wrecker’s heart skipped a beat at the sight of Layla ducking under the swipe of an energy sword before being tackled and sent flying a few meters back. He heard her breath cutting under the impact and a groan leave her lips when a tall, blue-armored alien materialized out of thin air and kneeled onto her abdomen, snarling at her face. 

Wrecker jumped out of the building before he knew it. He ran while shooting at the beast, his mind solely focused on keeping her safe. All he could hear was the blood pumping in his ears, all he could see was the sword shining high into the air, ready to strike down. And then all he saw was blue. Blue blood coated his visor, the sticky substance spurting from where his vibroblade connected to the alien’s neck. He removed the blade and his arm became warm. 

He had never been so glad to see blue in his life.  

“Are you okay?” He dropped to his knees to assess her condition. 

Her hand grabbed his outstretched one and he quickly pulled her up. For a short moment all he could think of was her hand in his, how right it felt. Then a bullet flew past his head and he let go to duck under cover with the Scout. 

“Yeah. Thanks for that.” She was already shooting back at the enemy, prompting him to copy her movements. “You should go back to the others.” 

“I should. But eh I’ll stay here.” He hoped she wouldn’t order him back. 

“I’m sure your Sergeant wants you back, Wreck.”

A long silence stretched the comms line. 

“All things considered I think he’s better with you.” Hunter replied. A relieved breath escaped his mouth. He could stay. 

“If you say so.” She reluctantly let go and ushered him after her. 

Together they cleared a section of the battlefield while the two other Spartans worked half a klick away. Wrecker’s attention was fully captured by the fight, he wouldn’t let anything go wrong, not if he could help it. 

It was easy to go back to old habits. He was made for war, to fight on the front lines, not search around for bounties. He was in his element and to add to it, he fought by her side again, the place where he felt he truly belonged. 

Less and less enemies shot at them, a majority of their numbers covering the ground, unmoving. 

Until a yell came over the comms.

“Hunters!” A gruff voice warned. “Two of them incoming from the North-West.” 

Layla groaned. 

“You guys take one down, we’ll manage the other.” She ordered. “Wreck, follow me. We got a big guy to settle.” 

“A’right!” He dutifully followed her, his blaster at the ready. 

“Here’s what we’ll do. I’ll draw its attention while you shoot it in the back. Aim for the tender part, not the armor. They are resistant, so shoot like there’s not tomorrow. And if it turns to you, you take cover.” Her last words were hard. “I mean it. You run and you hide. That cannon will kill you in one hit. I’ll get its attention again and then and only then you come back out to shoot.” 

He wasn’t a fan of her being the bait out of the two of them. He would prefer it to be the other way around, but knew better than to voice his concerns. A scene on an explosive field could quickly mean death. “Got it.” 

“Let’s go!”

Farther up the street, two beasts marched towards them, their heavy armor gleaming under the sun. Two green spots suddenly glowed from their arms and Wrecker got ready to duck behind a nearby vehicle. One of the two beasts got distracted, multiple shots bouncing off its body. Its attention turned to engage the two Spartans who did a similar tactic as Layla’s. One bait and one shooter. 

Wrecker ducked behind the abandoned vehicle, safely avoiding the green plasma bolt flying his way. With small peaks over the metal carcass he waited until the Covenant followed your movements and turned its back on him, exposing the soft part of its body. 

Instantly, Wrecker opened fire like instructed. Blue bolts rained on the soft flesh of the alien causing it to stumble slightly and misfire the charging cannon bolt, missing Layla by far. Content with the result, Wrecker rained hell on the beast until it turned around to face him and fired a bolt. The metal body pressed against his back jerked under the impact, sending the clone to his knees. He hurried a look behind and found that Layla had already baited the alien to shoot at her instead. 

As he did before, Wrecker jumped back in position and fired. It took several repetitions until the creature fell to its knees and clattered to the ground, unmoving. He couldn’t rejoice in the small win as the enemy troops still crawled around, shooting at Layla like she was the Plague. He gladly returned the shots. 

“The code is complete with a coordinate modification.” Kai informed them over the line. “All I need to send them back is a connection to the power core of the pelican.”

“Then lead them there. We’ll join you soon.” Layla ordered as she pulled him after her right as a grenade flew past their heads. The explosion muffled Kai’s answer and caused Wrecker to stumble lightly. He kept as close to her side as he could. 

Their earlier conversation kept repeating in the back of his head, how crestfallen she had sounded. She truly believed that she wasn’t one of them and it hurt him more than any wound he subsided during the Clone War. She was important to him and he drove her away without even noticing. He hated his weakness that allowed her to leave them that night. He should have talked to her like he had planned to. Instead he had chickened out and she left. 

He swore to never shy away from talking to her. He swore to bare his honest feelings and not hold back ever again. Too much time had already been lost and he doubted he could survive another heartbreak. 

So he listened to the small voice that kept telling him that it was now or never. 

“You’re coming with us, right?” 

She spared him a glance, her weapon still raining shots onto the enemy. 

“To the Pelican?” 

“Home.” 

She paused, frozen for a second. He took over the cover fire. 

“Wrecker. My home is-” 

“With us.” He assured her. “Always was.”

He saw her hesitate in her movements. His heart leaped in his throat when plasma beams missed her by a hair, and a bolt crashed into her armor’s shield. He pulled her behind some cover. 

“I should have told you that before. I wanted to! Really badly! I just- it was- I- I got scared that I would screw up and destroy what we already had and well, it happened anyway. But I realized that you needed me and I let you down and I won’t ever let you down again.” He scrambled to explain.

“We should have this conversation later.” She whispered and moved away from him, causing his heart to leap in fear to lose her again. 

“I thought that too a year ago and then the next day you were gone. I need to say that I loved you then and I still do now. I missed you every day and the Marauder hasn’t felt like home in so long because home is you.” 

He almost felt out of breath. His heart was beating wildly, his thoughts were scattered everywhere and nowhere at the same time, all he could really think of was whether he had said enough or not, had said the right things or not, of she would leave or not- 

“She’s right, Wrecker.” Hunter grunted. “You should have this conversation later.” 

“R-right.” Heat flared up his face at the thought that the whole team heard his rant. 

“For what it's worth Layla, the Marauder definitely hasn’t felt the same without you sleeping in the cargo hold.” Hunter’s smile could be heard in his voice.

That jolted her out of her trance. She snorted in amusement and her shoulders shook lightly in what Wrecker was sure was silent giggles. Tension eased out of his muscles in response. 

“I also missed having someone who truly listens to my informative chatter and who doesn’t cut me off mid-way.” Tech chirped in. 

A low grunt filled the line. “Wrecker started pushing us around again.” Crosshair supplied in annoyance. 

“Okay, okay, I got the point.” Layla looked around at anything but him, her feet shuffling a little. 

Despite his initial embarrassment, Wrecker was glad he blurted everything over the squad comms. He knew his brothers also felt grief over her sudden departure and despite Crosshair’s gruff behavior, he knew for a fact that his brother rumminated on what went wrong. They all did. And now they all followed his lead and offered reminders that she was a part of Clone Force 99 and her presence amongst them was wanted and appreciated. 

“The enemy forces are fairly low. We better join the others now before the guys get suspicious of the others lurking around our transport.” 

He nodded and followed her lead to join his brothers and sister. Oh. Now that he thought about it, Layla never met Omega. He will love presenting her to his little sibling. 

He could now see his squad, Omega safely tucked away in the belly of the ship alongside Crosshair. Tech and Echo worked on the underside, their hands lost within the metal beast. Hunter kept guard, his eyes trained on the horizon. 

Layla cursed. “A sensor was tripped. That’s probably Ortez keeping track of me. They’ll be rallying here any second now. Kai, what’s the status?” 

“Another minute and I can activate the protocol.” He assured her. 

“Good j-” “Cover!” 

Wrecker only had a second after Crosshair’s warning to duck. A sniper shot grazed his arm. 

“Wrecker!” 

An explosion hurt his ears, way too close to his comfort. The blast disturbed his running momentum and sent him tumbling on his hands and knees. He recovered quickly, his blaster aiming to the orange blur exchanging blows with Layla. Both dodged and retaliated in quick succession, staying way too close to one another for Hunter or Wrecker to offer support fire. 

If blasters were useless then his fists would do fine. 

With a war cry, he charged the duo, fully intending to neutralize her aggressive teammate. Layla ducked under a right hook, leaving a perfect opening to him for a left hit. His knuckles hit a solid light shield instead of a helmet. With a grunt, Wrecker pushed through and hit the shield with powerful blows after powerful blows. Gates spat curses, his feet digging into the dirt in an attempt to keep his ground. He pushed him back, keeping him occupied on him instead of Layla. 

He saw her creeping around to attack Gates from the side. Before she could attack, a sniper shot hit her in the leg, earning a cry of pain. Her leg buckled slightly. Gates used her pain-induced hesitation to reach for her and stick a device on her chestplate. She recoiled until her movements stopped completely, her arms stuck mid-air and legs ready to pounce. 

“Fuck! Wreck! My armor is locked. I can’t move!” He heard the light panic loud and clear. 

“Don’t worry. I got this.” He reassured her. 

“I’ll get her.” Hunter added, already running to their position. 

Swiftly, Wrecker delivered a kick to the shield, sending the soldier tumbling on his ass. He followed with a punch to the face which connected and broke the black visor. A kick to the abdomen pushed him back from the UNSC soldier who rolled to his feet, a knife in hand. 

The blade flew around and Wrecker did his best to avoid it. He grabbed Gates’ wrist in a firm grip, pulled him closer and delivered a left hook. The scout stumbled to the ground, his body going limp for a second. He was about to get back up when a stun shot hit him and he fell back down. 

“Time to go.” Hunter pushed him towards the ship, Layla in tow. 

Wrecker followed right next to her, close enough to feel slight hits of her elbows as they ran. They came to an abrupt stop before Crosshair who kept looking out for more trouble.  

“Ready to go back?” Kai asked loudly, but his eyes were on Layla. 

Wrecker held his breath. 

“Yeah. Let’s go.” She sounded confident, her own visor trained on his. He knew there was a smile hidden under helmet, one he was eager to see again. 

“Alright. Please remain calm, keep your head and arms close to your body and enjoy the ride.” The AI clapped his hands and the same feeling of free-falling took over his senses, making him panic instantly. Through the daze of it all, a hand grabbed his and squeezed tightly. He squeezed back, the small movement offering him tremendous comfort. Everything would be alright as long as they stayed together. 

The free-falling feeling stopped and he found himself on his knees. His eyes moved to her hand still encompassed in his, moved up her arm to find her face. As soon as she met his visor, he pushed his helmet over his head and slowly reached to do the same to hers. Her eyes had turned shy, looking at their hands instead of his eyes. 

“I loved you too. And well, I still do.” He could only hear her words because he was so close. Their breaths almost mixed. 

“Welcome back.” He lowered his forehead to touch hers. Her eyes fluttered close, mirroring his. 

“I’m home.” She whispered and his smile hurt his cheeks. 

20 YEARS LATER

“You know, I don’t think I ever thanked you for not giving up on me when I kept making mistakes. I did some really bad ones and you never turned from me. It's crazy to think that it took you to travel universes for me to understand that my place was truly with you. I know it was by accident, but don’t you think it sounds romantic nonetheless? If not by your own doing then even the universe wanted to reunite us.” She chuckled. “That's so cheesy. But I’m grateful it happened. So thank you for pulling me back to you and for staying at my side no matter what. 

“You’ve always been the strongest out of the two of us and I’m really trying to take a page out of your book here. I know you hated how your body aged so much more quickly than mine, and I hate it too because that karking gene took you from me too early, but I also try to see it from another angle, you know? I think it helps me cope. And its damn impressive when said like that, so here: you fought for a good part of your life, against droids, the Empire, you fought to ensure that we had a future together and then it all stopped. Well, more or so. Then came the small problems of life; finding our home, keeping it upright, dealing with my mind playing tricks on me, all those time you helped the village despite your aging body– I was always happy to give you those massages and you know it– and so many more that we overcame. 

“What was I saying again? Oh. Yeah. What I meant is that all your life you fought in one way or another and you came back every time. Maybe injured, but alive. You were so strong that the only thing that managed to stop you was time itself, the only thing you had no power against. You were so strong, my love. I’m sure that if time was a droid, you would have trashed it in minutes. 

“Now, am I as strong as you? I know I’m not. But I promised you that I’d do my best to be happy and that’s what I’ll do. After all, I have Aedan to lure me out of bed each day with that carefree smile of yours. I’m also grateful that he looks so much like you, but I told you that so many times already. He helps me heal a lot and I think that it's also a reason why you were so relieved when I told you I was expecting. You didn’t want to leave me alone, didn’t you? My strong and smart man. You’ve always known me more than I know myself. 

“I miss you every day.” Her throat tightened. “My life became so much better because of you and I cannot thank you enough for it. I wish we had had more time, but I guess that will come later, when I find you again. Aedan and I will care for each other like you cared for us, with so much patience and love. Were you aware that our boy now has high standards in love? He’s only 13 and already talks of soulmates. That's all on you. You did that, you amazing man. 

“Okay. I’ll let you rest for now. Take care of yourself wherever you are. I love you with all my heart and soul.”

A smile stretched her lips despite the salty tears falling down her cheeks. The tip of her fingers carefully stroked the plastoid of the helmet before her, her touch lingering on a familiar fingerprint. She had always been bad at goodbyes although she knew that this time, she would see him again. She had no doubt about that, after all he traveled universes to find her again. He would find her anywhere. It might not be tomorrow, she still had things to do, but when the time was right Wrecker would reunite them. He was the strongest after all.

[drarryglobesficrecs]

My favourite drarry fics<3 (short version, under 50k)

long versions 1 , 2

To Hurt and Heal by cassisluna(21k)

They say that everybody who gets out of Azkaban comes out a little mad. After the war, Draco Malfoy spends three months in Azkaban. He just wants to go insane in peace, but Harry Potter finds that he, inexplicably, still can't leave Draco alone.

you've got the antidote for me by Kandakicksass(20k)

When Harry Potter unintentionally severs their soulbond before it can fully form, Draco Malfoy resigns himself to a slow death and decides not to burden Harry with a soulmate he's made it very clear he doesn't want. He's never been selfless before, but for Harry, he can try.

In Evidence of Magical Theory by bixgirl1(43k)

When a hex meant for Draco accidentally catches Harry as well, they're forced to learn to understand each other in ways they previously might have thought impossible. In which Harry and Draco can't fight, so they fall in love instead.

Your Tears Sting, Friend by alpha_exodus(10k)

Draco’s always wanted Potter. It’s only on death’s doorstep that he’s allowed to have him.

MCD

Remember Me, As I Will You by alpha_exodus(13k)

Two weeks, Harry'd said, two weeks and he'd be done with the assignment. But the longer Draco waits, the harder it is to believe that Harry is going to return alive.

MCD

Lumos by birdsofshore(41k)

Harry never expected to spend eighth year listening to Draco Malfoy wanking.

The Standard You Walk Past by bafflinghaze(46k)

On returning to Hogwarts for their Eighth Year, Headmistress McGonagall decided to room Draco Malfoy and Harry Potter together. She may have hoped for a leading example of house unity; the other students fully expected insults and fights. But nothing happened. That was, until Harry sleepwalked into Draco’s bed.

Nice Things by aideomai(22k)

The first thing that happened was Theodore Nott came back from France.

Vortex by xanthippe74(20k)

“Don’t worry, my dearest one,” Draco’s mother told him when he confided his worries to her. When he was old enough to feel the pangs of adolescent longing, but still too young to sense the storm gathering around them. “Magic will overcome any distance or obstacles to bring two soulmates together when the time is right. Circumstances will arise that steer them in the right direction; strange coincidences will make their paths cross again and again. Then the most wondrous moment arrives, when you both realize that your soulmate, your perfect match, stands before you, and from that day forward your hearts will be one.” Ten years after that conversation, the idea of perfectly-matched soulmates feels more like a curse than a blessing to Draco. Who would want a soulmate who was a schoolyard bully, a Death Eater, and a convicted felon? Certainly not Harry Potter. And Draco is determined to take this secret to the grave.

Open For Repairs by FeelsForBreakfast(34k)

After the war, Draco works at a tv repair shop and Harry breaks things. feat. sad boys in jumpers and more ABBA than is probably necessary

The Stars Above Us by 606, create_serenity (Sivany) (19k)

It started as an innocent day out taking Teddy to visit the local observatory. Somehow it became so much more.

In Pursuit of Lost Marbles by Theartfulldodger(22k)

Every night after work, Healer Malfoy follows the same routine, beginning with a familiar flight of stairs that leads to the Janus Thickey Ward at St. Mungo's. With an air of professionalism, he introduces himself to Harry, his husband of seven years, when a memory curse makes Harry look at him like a stranger. He tries not to flinch when Harry calls him sir, but he smiles when bits of the old Harry emerge. Eventually, Draco leads Harry to the Pensieve where he shows him pieces of the life they've built together, what Harry will come home to, one day, when this is all over. Then, Draco waits. He waits, and he hopes.

In The Hand by aideomai(28k)

Two months after Harry went missing, when Hermione was frantic with fear and panic and sleep deprivation, Draco Malfoy cornered them outside the Great Hall before breakfast.

Just a Matter of Time by gracerene(23k)

Draco's in a bit of a rut. He's nearing forty, divorced, and he still can't figure out how to make his Time Turner reconstruction work. He's bored, he can admit it, so he's not nearly as concerned as he should be when his pet project malfunctions and sends him twenty years into the past. That is, until he ends up relying on a nineteen-year-old Harry Potter for help and starts developing some very inconvenient—and possibly reciprocated—feelings.

Dear Diary by AWickedMemory (TeddyLaCroix)(20k)

// This can’t possibly go worse than the last time I kept a diary. // After the war, Harry picks up a journal to write in… and it writes back. Luckily, it’s not a Horcrux on the other end this time.

Chilly Feet by shushu_yaoi_lj(13k)

It all starts with a pair of chilly feet under Harry Potter’s bum.

The Art of Perfection by create_serenity (Sivany)(19k)

Harry cursed the day he’d ever made the stupid bet with Ron because that bet was what had led to him being naked in front of a Muggle art class. Of course Draco Malfoy had to be taking the class, because that’s just how Harry’s life worked.

The Frisky Furnishings of Malfoy Manor by Writcraft(19k)

The course of true love never did run smooth. Or: Hermione has a crafty plan, Harry and Draco are fake boyfriends and wizarding traditions have a lot to answer for. Featuring awkward dates, mince pies, a saucy sofa and a line of sequined house-elf haute couture nobody asked for but got anyway.

amid this warm and steady sweetness by warmfoothills (orphan_account) (21k)

Harry is not living in a period drama, no matter what his friends or his new house or Malfoy’s sudden affinity for horse-riding might suggest, and if one more person uses the word courting, he’s going to start hexing people.

freely, as men strive for right by bixgirl1(17k)

How can Harry love a man like Draco Malfoy?If only Draco would let him count the ways. (Sometimes, a happily-ever-after takes a bit longer than you expect.)

How to Apologise to Harry Potter in 10 Days by QueenofThyme(18k)

Draco Malfoy decides to apologise to Harry Potter, but finds himself falling into old familiar patterns instead. All he needs to do is say two little words. Why is it so hard?

It Takes a Village by Saras_Girl(24k)

Eighth year isn’t exactly going to plan. Harry is definitely not running away, Draco is definitely not impressed, and it’s almost definitely not going to stop raining.

The Owl Who Came for Christmas by dracogotgame(17k)

Draco has a debt to pay off, no matter what Potter thinks. And he has a Very Good Idea to go along with it. Things don't go as planned.

Crimson Neon by xanthippe74(20k)

Winter, 1999. Harry thought going to New York would help him get his head on straight, but all he has to show for it are sore feet and a fridge full of takeaway containers. And now he’s homesick on top of everything else. It doesn’t help that his mysterious neighbour in 2C keeps cooking dishes that remind Harry of home and all the people he lost or left behind.

Before Florence by dysonrules(9k)

Harry is visiting Florence, Italy, when he runs into an unexpected person. They decide to explore the city together and by the end of the night, everything that Harry thought he knew had changed.

A Hiss To Build a Dream On by xanthippe74(10k)

Harry fancies a certain Slytherin. Draco has a snake that’s refusing to eat. When Draco asks him to use his Parseltongue skills to help, Harry sees the opportunity he’s been waiting for. There’s just one small problem: Harry can’t bring himself to tell Draco that he isn’t a Parselmouth anymore.

Drop Everything Now by parkkate(21k)

After accidentally bonding himself to Malfoy, Harry finds himself in an utterly precarious situation...

You Paint in Colours That Don’t Exist by fluorescencx(4k)

Draco wasn’t happy. All the world was grey.

[hamspamandjamsandwich]

“After days of running in circles, he’s at his wit’s end instead of his thread’s. Human civilization is proving to be more insufferable than he’d anticipated, a feat previously thought to be impossible. This concrete jungle that the Jagan has led him to is especially offensive, with its dense masses of loud, ignorant humans and asinine chatter.

But as much as Hiei can’t stand it here, his gut insists that this is where he’s supposed to be. The thread’s soft, ethereal appearance has become a radiant red glow ever since he arrived, so he’s been foolishly hopeful.

He’s in the process of letting go of said foolish hope right now.

“Damn it, damn it, damn it!” is all that Hiei has to say as he slams his fist repeatedly against the cold brick wall of some seedy bar, tucked away in a dark, dirty alley—the sort of place that sleazy men and their ilk frequent.

A solid week hunting for answers, tolerating these inferior beings walking amongst him, and he’s found nothing but more of the universe’s cruel and unusual punishment.”

Chapter 3 of my Kurahi Soulmates AU has been posted. <3 our lovely demons finally meet~!

What a labor this one was! Love how it turned out though. Sick of reading it after editing all day lol

[desnayy]

Pac always hated being alone. Being alone for a millennia will do that. But then he found his Mike, a squishy little Creeper hybrid who actually dared to befriend the entity in the ocean. And suddenly Pac wasn't alone, him and his Mike practically joined at the hip.

That prison was bearable simply because Pac knew his Mike was still there, still able to communicate through their mental bond. And the Island was bearable because of his Mike and then his Richinhas, even eventually his Cellbit, his Felps, his Forever. Pac had so many people suddenly, and was never alone.

But then he was taken, and then he was broken (an admirable feat by the guard, breaking what often couldn't break). But his Mike saved him! And shortly after, Pac gained his Fit with the date, and a new friend in Philza's Tubbo. And life seemed to be getting better.

But, then his Mike was taken. A previously unconcievable thought as his Mike was so stubborn and sure that capture seemed impossible (when it wasn't caused by a betrayal from a friend). And when things couldn't possible be worst in Pac's eyes, his Richinhas was taken, all the eggs were taken. And two days later, his Forever was different, gone not physically but forcefully mentally gone.

And nothing was right, and everything was wrong. And suddenly Pac was truly alone.

[kale-smoothies]

I do see your vision. Increased healing? Greater durability? Faster reflexes than Sonic’s potentially? Closer to Shadow’s skills of chaos powers? Fuck yeah I see that for him! In another post far away, I discussed a bit of exactly this! Though for entirely different reasons, but still I’ll share a part of my premise here. When it comes to the chaos energy within the archie universe, it’s actually insane with its powers and abilities. I mean look at entities like Perfect Chaos, Enerjak, Feist exists???, and the documented super forms. From having increased speed, strength, invulnerability, simple feats such as that. To granting various complex wishes. Immortality. Remove life from the host. Seal away a god. Sacrifice. Fuse an ancient spirit with Chaos [Tikahaos]. Warping time and space to the point of rewriting reality entirely. 

…And Scourge has Master Emerald energy perma-trapped inside him. Ain’t no way it just turned him green with a slight boost. 

Now now, he is the Evil Sonic, if they wrote him like that, it’ll be almost impossible for the FF to get around the problem. After all, they eventually won against Scourge by tricking him to power down while the other option was an attempted gang-up on him. Though it can be argued in-universe that he’s ignorant with what he is capable of. He’s never been pushed to his limits the same way his Prime counterpart was. In every instance where he grabs power from a source, besides the added boost, he doesn’t consider the capabilities/consequences until it’s spelled out to him. 

Something that’s driven me crazy is how this mutation according to Zonic has made him a wildcard in the cosmic scheme of things. And proceeds to never elaborate what that exactly means in later issues, sighs.  

I could see him having a deeper connection to the Master Emerald than anyone else, should he pay attention. Hmm…which leads me to another question….

Do you see any negative consequences he could suffer down the line from having that much energy inside him considering…that’s not supposed to happen? 

Seen some people headcanon it’s probably why he had such a mentality switch post Master Emerald. Why he seems extra hateful. I say yeah to this too, the chaos energy might’ve drove him a little mad. Maybe even because he is originally made of anarchy energy.

Or how that energy could potentially tear him apart physically should he abuse his powers. 

What do you think? 

Okay, first, love your takes. Second,

Yeah, I agree that Scourge would be THAT much of a dumbass not to notice or even consider his new found powers. Although, he didn’t have much of a timeframe to think about it, from conquering his world to attempting to take over sonic’s to having his powers restricted in prison. The only person that (saw the power boost AND is currently still with him) is Fiona, she’s possibly the only one who would consider those options. Scourge would possibly figure them out in a accidental situation, in a fight and got a wound, suddenly it heals and it gets him thinking.

No, I haven’t previously thought about the negatives of the chaos energy, but I am interested in the idea. I guess both energies are fighting, causing problems in his body, or maybe the chaos energy slightly enhanced the obvious negatives of the Anarchy Beryll, causing scourge to be more violent and angry.

The only CANON instance in which I can see the Chaos Energy actively helping Scourge was in 191/192 where he turned super, but once he turned back, he fell to his knees and more energy than just the Anarchy Beryll was drained out of him. He later was passed out — some might say he was acting (though I disagree as I don’t see Scourge being able to put up with being carried by SONIC) — but he quickly regained consciousness, and I’ve always thought that was when the chaos energy was actively trying to restore his lost power. Which is why he was able to act quick in a fight, even if he drained of nothing literally minutes ago.