#also apologies for the late post! all the new dragon age news made me forget what day it was 😔💕

[afinickyguide]

episode 156: tavern fare 🍻🥜✨

[mirkwoodshewolf]

Guardian of creatures; AU! Queen x reader chap. 1

*Author’s note*

Well it took awhile from the last update (plus things have been happening in my personal life like losing yet ANOTHER kitty cat this year) but I finally came around and deliver to you guys the first chapter of my new Hallowqueen series. Now keep in mind it’s mostly in 2nd PERSON POV which means as the reader it’s basically gender neutral, so be patient with me as I try to make sure to keep my pronouns in order. Also I hope you all watch the video I have linked in the story, I def. LOVED it when I first found it years ago and this guy can really sing and bring a gender-bend Disney character to life, so if you’ve never heard of him, check out his page you won’t regret it :)

Now not really any warnings per-say except rude bosses, seductive gestures, 

Taglist:

@plethora-of-things​

@waddles03​

@psychosupernatural​

@ixchel-9275​

@simonedk​

@queensdivas​

@jd-johndeacon-or-jackdaniels​

@dancingcoolcat​

@queendeakyy​

@kinole009x​

@klausidiot​

@geek-and-proud​

__________________________________________________________

Chapter 1,

First day on the Job

*April 11th, 1926*

First day on the job.  Well it’s really an internship but you were looking forward to it.  Working for the New York Times was an opportunity for any writer.  Your dream was to one day publish the next great American novel, as a child you’ve always been whisked away by the words and tales of dragons, sea-baring pirates, and worlds unlike the one you lived in.

It amazed you how one writer can just take you away on a journey and help distract you from the stresses of the world.  And here is where your journey began in hopes of accomplishing that dream.

You had first heard about the internship for the NY Times in the papers in an advertisement.  The call asked for a 300 word sample of your writing as well as any previous writing experiences you’ve had in the past.

In school you’ve been part of the school newspaper and helped write up advertisements for after school events.  So after submitting your sample as well as a resume, about 2 months later you finally got a letter from the NY times wanting to do an interview.

Long story short, the interview went great and now you’ve got the internship.  You now stood before the doors that would start your future in the world of writing. Tugging the strap of your suitcase over your shoulder, you take a deep breath in before exhaling and entered inside.

Already swarms of people flooded the first floor of the building, their voices echoing off the large room.  The repeated sounds of phones ringing piercing the room as secretaries at their desks were answering them.

It felt like a dream to you for you to actually think that you were now working in one of the top Newspapers brands in all of America.

“You there!” a voice called out.  You turned and saw a young man in a brown suit. “Why are you just standing there!? We are running a newspaper here, not a charity tour.”

“Sorry, I’m….my name is (y/n) (l/n). I’m the new intern to Mr. Grayson.”

“Ohh right. He’s been expecting you. You’re late by the way.”

“Late? But I’m right on……”

“One rule about working under Mr. Grayson, he expects his interns and anyone on his team to arrive before he does. Which is 6am on the dot. And it is now,” he looks down at his watch, “8:45. That’s a good start.”

“I’m sorry I wasn’t tole. I promise it’ll never happen again.”

“See to it that it doesn’t. I’m Harry Wormwood, Vice President of the New York Times.”

“Oh Mr. Wormwood it’s an honor to—”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. Just get up to your post and start your internship.”

“Yes sir.” You said solemnly.  Wow he was rude.  To think you have a VP like him that acts like that around new people, especially interns.  But he was right, you had to get up to meet with your head of office and get right to work with whatever he needed help on.

You adjusted your bag once more before heading straight to the elevator and went up to the 13th floor.  After a bit of a ride and getting some more people in the elevator with you, you finally arrive to your floor.

People, like down in the first floor, were swarming the room, typewriters were tapping away as men were at their desks typing away their stories and articles for the paper.  Or as they like to call it ‘putting the paper to bed’.  You walk forward towards a middle aged man with ginger colored hair and ask him.

“Excuse me, do you know where Mr. Grayson’s office is at?”

“In the back, straight down the hall, last door. It’ll have his name plagued on the door in gold.” He said without looking you in the eye.

“Great, thank you.” you followed his instructions but when you got to his door, there was sounds of a commotion going on.  Well when you say that you mean the sound of someone yelling and belittling someone, then yes.

“YOU GODDAMN SONS OF BITCHES!!! If we can get a picture of Joan Crawford in lingerie, then we can surely get a hold of this damn jazz club!” you peek inside and inside you see four men surrounding a desk.

And right there at his desk with a cigar between his teeth was your new boss, Mr. Richard Grayson.  He was a middle aged man around his late 40’s possible even early 50’s. He was a fairly tall man with greying short hair, a small mustache across his lip.

But what really made him well known was the way he carried himself.  He was always described as a man who carried himself like a drill sergeant (that could be because he was one during the Great War).  A true, Bronx accent that carried out demands for miles and miles on end.

“Sir, we have tried everything we could to get a hold of an interview inside but not even our best interviewers could get pass security.” Said a blonde haired man in a blue suit.

“Our photographer Eddie has been on it for weeks and the owners have threatened a lawsuit against him because he’s been taking pictures of the club without consent.”

“Aww what are they shy?” Mr. Grayson mocked out. “Then let them sue us then, get rich on their own standards! That’s what made this country stand the way it is!”

“Maybe we should just forget about it.” Said a brown haired man.

“I have been on this case for years. Ever since these mysterious owners built their club at the start of the decade and has remained popular I want to know just what the secret to their success.”

“Sir the only thing we have is that the owners come from England and that they prefer a specific crowd of people.” Answered a young man around your age who had black hair.

“Yeah right they do.” Mr. Greyson muttered sarcastically. That’s when he suddenly turned towards you. “You!” he pointed at you.  You’re startled by his loud, strong voice as you quickly come inside his office.

“Sorry sir I-I-I didn’t mean to eavesdrop. I really should’ve knocked.”

“You’re the new intern right?” he ignored your apology and went straight to the question at hand.

“Y-Yes sir.”

“Excellent. I want you to go to this night club and get an exclusive interview with the owners, bartender, musicians, I don’t care who. Just find someone to talk to and ask them about their Jazz club.”

“Sir you can’t give it to them. This is a big responsibility, not to mention too much for a fresh intern to take over.” Said the man in the brown suit that you saw first speak to Mr. Grayson.

“Shut it Mack! You remember what I had you do the first day you were late working for me. What better way to get started than by throwing fresh meat to the wolves.”

Can you say you regret working here yet? No too early? Okay then.

“So what do you say kid, will you do it?” before you could even answer, your boss continues, “Of course you’ll do it. Now then. Take this camera, your notepad, and come up with a clever story to get inside. Good luck kid!” he tosses you a camera and notepad before escorting you out of his office and shutting the door behind you.

Okay……what the fuck just happened? It all happened so fast you almost couldn’t even believe it.  And what jazz club did he want you to check out again?

Later that night (after getting the information from some of your new team members) you now stood before the building you were supposed to go undercover for.

In a bright neon sign at the side of the building was the name BEWITCHED JAZZ.  Now you have heard of this club before and remember it getting fairly good praise from the public and has a good swarm of people.  Hell even some of the biggest names in Hollywood have been seen going into that club.

But there was always an air of mystery about it.  Like Mr. Grayson said, security is always tight. First of all security actually gives you a pat down before entering inside.  Any traces of photography or recording equipment is immediately destroyed (yes you heard, destroyed).

Thinking it’d be best, you decide to leave the camera in your car and just wait it out.  Cause that seems to be the problem that most of Mr. Greyson’s reporters don’t seem to get, they just think barging on in will get them access.  A good reporter always plans ahead and blends in with the crowd, observes then goes in for the kill.

You stand in the line and for about an hour you stand there waiting to get inside until finally it’s your turn to go up.

“Next.” A very tall and muscular man speaks out as he unhooks the rope allowing you to come forward. “Pardon but I’m gonna need to do a pat down.”

“Go ahead.” As he carefully and precisely starts the pat down, you can’t help but feel intimidated, hell his whole hand goes halfway down your leg and covers your entire back.  He was a pretty intimidating man to look at, and you hope he doesn’t snap you like a toothpick.

“Now you don’t have any weapons or outside drinks that I’m not aware of?” he asks in that deep, deep baritone voice of his.

“No sir.” You answer.

“Show me some identification.” You pull out your wallet and give him your ID.  He looks down at it before looking towards you skeptically.

Swallowing nervously, the giant just looks at you with a skeptical look before finally giving you back your ID.

“Go right on in.” what? Oh god you couldn’t believe you could actually go in.  You take your ID and put it back inside your wallet and thank the guard before stepping inside.

It was a fairly big place, about 3000 sq. ft. A decent size of the typical jazz clubs in NYC.  It looked like any ordinary jazz club, firefly lights hanging from the ceiling, the lights lowered to a slight shadow, tables surrounding everywhere, including each side of the catwalk.

A grand stage was at the very center of the building with a band playing an upbeat jazz score.  Waiters and bartenders tending to each customer.  Some people were dancing to the music while most were sitting down talking to one another.

“Wow.” You softly muttered.

“It’s alright but we make do.” A voice suddenly spoke up. You jump back startled but you stop as you stare at the man before you.

He was unlike any other man you’ve seen in your entire life. He was fairly tall and lean, but not unhealthily skinny, just lean.  His eyes were almost a hypnotic blue and he had fairly sharp features, particularly his nose and even his profile.

It was like looking at an angel.  But what really struck your attention was the curly hair he had.  It reminded you of that one scientist from like the medieval ages or something, what was his name again uhh—Neutron? New—Newton! Isaac Newton that’s the guy.

“Sorry I didn’t mean to frighten you.”

“No it’s—it’s fine. I’m just…..I was just admiring the place. I’ve…..never really been to a jazz club before.”

“Well, I hope we here at the BEWITCHED can help fill your desires. Oh manners, I’m Brian. Head Bartender.” Head bartender? That’s new.

“What’s a head bartender?”

“Basically I run the bar and train all the other bartenders so that every drink is made to perfection. Now come, sit and let me prepare you something.” He does a gentle gesture towards the bar with his arm and you go to sit at an empty cushioned barstool.  Wow this was really cushioned, it kinda reminded you of sofa material. Now so soft that you sink into it but not hard enough to where it’s uncomfortable.

Brian goes around the bar and stands before you and asks with a warm smile and says with that soft voice of his that you can somehow hear over the music.

“Now what can I get for you?”

“Actually I’m…..don’t really know my drinks that well, what’s your most popular one?”

“Well the most popular drink on our menu is French 75. A pretty basic cocktail made with gin, champagne and lemon. I think the main reason why people like it so much is they think it’s actually from France but in truth it really isn’t.” he teases the last part of his statement which makes you softly laugh. “There’s also the Bees Knees, also called our ‘bathtub gin’. Mainly from our pianist player. But that’s basically gin, fresh lemon juice and honey. To give it that sweet yet tart flavor.”

“I think I’ll go with the Bee’s Knees then.” He gave a snap of his fingers.

“Coming right up.” He pulls out a small circular bowl wine glass and with graceful precision he starts whipping up the drink.  Shaking the cocktail up in a perfect blend, pouring out the right amount of gin and juice into the concoction.  Before finally topping it off with some honey and stirred it up.

Then with a grace and delicate pour, he pours the Bee’s Knees, which comes out in a beautiful, clear sunset orange color into the glass before topping it off with two flower decoration toppings.

“Here you are.” He said as he picked it up delicately from the stem of the glass and handed it over to you.  You set down a dollar and took a small sip of it.

And as soon as your tastebuds were washed over with the drink, it was like you had died and gone to heaven.

“Oh my god! This is sooo good!”

“I’m glad you like it. That’s actually one of the owner’s preferred cocktails of choice. Can’t get enough of it.”

“I can see why. And he certainly has good taste.”

“She does. Actually.” Wait did he just say.  I quickly looked up at him and I stammered.

“Wait—you mean this……”

“It’s a partnership. Both she and her husband own the place. She makes most of the decisions since she knows the business world better than any of us. While he takes care of the finances, she’s always been lousy when it comes to the math. Don’t tell her I said that though.”

“My lips are sealed.” You say as you take another sip of your drink.

The curtains then close and a spotlight came on at the center of the curtain.  That’s when you suddenly hear all the ladies in the room beginning to scream bloody murder. God never have you heard so many women scream before nor have you seen them try to get up to the stage so quickly in your life.

“Here they go again.” Brian says as he starts cleaning out a beer glass.

“What?” you ask.

“Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday night when my mate preforms, the ladies all go crazy at the chance of getting to him.”

“Mate? You mean you guys are…..” you ask curiously.

“Oh no nothing like that. Where we come from mate means best friend. But even though I don’t condone his constant flirtatious behavior, he’s gotten me out of more scraps than I care to imagine.”

Peeking through the velvet blue curtain was an arm.  The red glittering sequin pattern delicately bounced off the spotlight and soon a hypnotic, soft yet raspy voice began to sing. When the curtains opened up and a soft jazz tune began playing, on stage stood a very, very, very, very handsome man.

When you say handsome, you really mean handsome.  This man looked like he was carved from the god with his ruffled up blonde hair, his piercing blue eyes that unlike Brian’s which were soft and inviting, this guy had hypnotic eyes that just draw you in and could kill you.

He wore a bright sequin cherry red tail suit which was unbuttoned pretty much all the way down, exposing his upper body to the ladies.  His neck decorated with 3 necklaces.  One of which went practically down to where his abs were, the other hung right at the center of his chest and was in the shape of some sort of snail shell or some other type of seashell.  The last one was more of a choker but was decored with beautiful diamonds like a crown of sorts.

He strut across the stage with grace and purpose as he continued to sing with a lustful, hypnotic tone that just made you go numb and melt in your seat.  And your eyes refusing to look away from this handsome creature before you.

*Male singer*

I got plenty money in 1922 You let other rich men make a fool of you Why don't you do right like some other gals do?         

He kneels down in front of the stage in front of a beautiful young woman.  She had long, wavy blonde hair and she looked up at this man with lust in her eyes.  He placed a dollar bill between her teeth and closed her mouth as he walked down the steps of the stage.

        He then walked over towards a woman with short raven hair.  She was fairly lean and had almost an aristocratic air about her.  He stood in front of her and took her hand in his.  He leaned towards her hand almost wanting to kiss the back of it, but his lips teased her hand and you could see her slightly shiver past her authorative demeanor.

With a cunning grin, he then stripped his tailcoat off his back leaving the undercoat which exposed his bare arms, the hint of black ocean waves tattoos decorated around his biceps.

You couldn’t speak at this point as you felt our heart racing rapidly, almost as if it were about to pop right out of your chest. The man soon turned his eyes right on you.  His piercing eyes staring deep into your soul.

Slowly walking towards you, he circles around you like a wolf circling it’s prey.  His hand gently grazes up your arm and you feel a bolt of electricity run up your spine, and it didn’t help when his hot breath gently sung in your ear.

Let’s get out of here, I got some money for you

You're sittin' down wonderin' what it's all about If you ain't got no money they will put you out Why don't you do right like some other gals do? Let’s get out of here, I got some money for you

Now if you had prepared twenty years ago You wouldn't be wanderin' now from door to door Why don't you do right like some other gals do?          You didn’t know why but you were willing to let this god-like siren just devour you. But when you turned your attention back to him, you saw that he was now looking towards you left at the upper floors.

        There at the top of the red carpet stairs stood a fairly beautiful woman. Her hair was a beautiful long ginger color and she wore a similar sparkling dark cherry red dress.  She held in her hand a silver dollar.

        He slowly walked up towards the mysterious woman that stood by the stairs and the two stared each other down.  She gave him the dollar but before she took her hand away, he took it in his and stared up at her like she was an angel (which you’ll admit, she did kinda look like one).

Let’s get out of here, I got some money for you

Let’s get out of here, I got some money for you Why don't you do right, like some other gals, do?

As he did a falsetto for the final note, he grazed the woman’s hand before doing his seductive walk back towards the stage. He turned back towards the audience and gave a flirtatious wink before the curtains closed on him.

The ladies all screamed as the lights came back up and you felt the spell the man had somehow placed on you slowly fade away.  Right now if you had to describe how you were feeling it’s be like running a marathon and had just swam across the entire Pacific ocean twice.

“Hope he didn’t scare you too bad honey.” A soft, Southern accent spoke.  You turned around and there stood the woman that the blonde singer had tried to seduce with his voice.  But she didn’t seem affected like all the other women were.

“I-I ju……he was……” she lowly chuckled.

“He has that effect on all the ladies. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Brian dear, get this dear a glass of water.”

“Right away my lady.” Brian said as he prepared you a glass of water.  She takes a seat beside you and continues.

“He may act all macho and seductive. But trust me, his bark is worse than his bite.” She spoke in that honey-like voice of hers that had a slight raspy to it, but it didn’t change the softness to her motherly tone.

“Who—who was he?” you ask her.

“He only gives out his name to those he truly trusts. So most of the ladies here call him the blonde Siren.”

“The blonde Siren?”

“Now I hope I’m not being intrusive but I haven’t seen you in this club before, have I?”

“No. This—is my first time actually.”

“Really? For business or pleasure?” she said as she leaned her chin against fist, looking at you with red eyes? Wait she had red eyes? And not like the kind of red that comes from being tired or when you get pink eye.  They were literally red eyes, blood red to be exact.  Not wanting her to see that you were stuck in thought you came up with a good excuse.

“I’ve just heard about this place from some friends and—wanted to see for myself.” She looked at me skeptically at first but a soft grin spread across her face.

“Well we try our best. We also want to make sure that first timers are treated fairly and respectfully. That’s the one law here at BEWITCHED.”

“Well I’m fairly happy. The drinks are amazing and the music is phenomenal.”

“I’m glad.” She then hummed out a chuckle. “Silly me, I almost forgot, you can call me Serafina. I’m the owner of this fine establishment.” Your eyes widened.

This young and beautiful woman owned this entire place?! But she couldn’t be older than her mid 20’s.  And the fact that she was a woman running this club, that’s completely unheard of.  A woman owning such a booming business.

Of course there wasn’t any jealously on your part.  In fact you were amazed that such a young woman could run a business like this and be so successful.

“Brian told me that a woman owned this place. But—pardon me for saying this but you’re…….”

“Too young to run a big business?” she said with a quirked brow. Thinking you had offended her you tried to defend your statement but all that came out were stutters of embarrassment. “Relax honey. I get that a lot. Why do you think we’re so secretive? A young woman running a big business. Oh the scandal of it all!” the two of you laugh.

The big clock along the ceiling soon chimed out midnight. Whoa it’s already that late.

“I should get going. If I’m late for work again my boss will kick me to the curb for sure. And on my second day no less.”

��You sure you’re sober enough to drive honey?” Serafina asked you.  You give her a nod.

“Yeah. I only really had one drink and that water sobered me up a lot. Thank you so much Brian, Serafina.”

“Anytime sweetie. Hope to see you again soon.” Serafina says with a warm smile.  You grab your wallet and pay the rest of your tab to Brian before finally walking out of the club.

*3rd Person POV*

Once they were gone, Brian turned to her and said.

“It was them.”

“Just as Freddie prophesized.” Serafina dropped her fake accent and spoke with her normal British tone.

“So it is time then?” another British male voice spoke up. The High elf and the ginger haired witch turned and soon walking towards them was John Deacon himself.

His once long hair was now cut down to a short tuff of brown hair. He wore a clean-cut black tailcoat suit. Serafina extended her hand and the two lovers joined hands with each other.

“Yes my love.”

“Honestly I hoped this day would never come.”

“But it must John. You know this. You have seen what will happen if they don’t help us.” Brian warned him.

“I’m not sure if we can even trust them.” Coming around the bar to pour himself a drink was Roger. “They’re human. And humans have been poking around in our business for centuries. Especially their reporters. We already run the risk of exposing ourselves to the human realm.” He took a shot of his beer.

‘Now, now my darlings we mustn’t quarrel.’ A soft, serpent voice spoke in their heads. ‘The humans are our least concern right now. What matters now is getting our key to help us finally put an end to the dark Wizards once and for all.’

“Yes Freddie.” All four of them softly chorused out.

[guiltysecretpasttime]

Adversity

A fanfic story

Overview: Lin and Tenzin are both at the height of their respective careers – she with the Metalbending Police and he with the Air Nation. Questions about their future begin to arise and things come to a head when Lin responded to an emergency call. Would her job take them from each other forever? Eventual HEA. Non-canon compliant, AU. (Notes at the end of the post.)

Chapter 1

Lin was once again pulling a double shift, finishing up this month’s crime stats report that needed to be filed at city hall tomorrow. Aside from having the routine meeting at city hall, tomorrow also marks Lin’s first ninety days as the chief of police.

She lightly rubbed a crick at her neck as she proofread the document.

Having taken over the Republic City Police Department when her mother, the metalbender Toph Beifong, stepped down, Lin Beifong recognized that taking on this responsibility goes beyond upholding the family legacy.

She pushed on, double checking the figures. Hoping that this was enough at least to keep the council contented. While some of the council members saw her growing up, she knew they were going to be fair as in all their dealings. However, the rest of the members were likely to be more difficult with her, with the mistaken notion that they needed to compensate for the perceived bias of the city founders. It also did not help that her mother was not as charismatic as the other founders.

Lin sighed tiredly as she pulled out another case folder; she had her work cut out.

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

Tenzin frowned deeply at his bowl, as though the stew his mother prepared offended him greatly.

His sullen mood was out of place amidst the boisterous laughter of his family at the dinner table. On another day, he would have eaten his sea prune stew with gusto. Tonight, he should have done so as well, given that his mother went all out with the dishes as the extended family was present.

Bumi, his eldest brother, arrived two days ago on shore leave. His uncle Sokka, meanwhile, landed at Air Temple island that afternoon, in preparation for tomorrow’s council meeting.

His uncle continued to regal the table with stories, getting more and more exaggerated as the night wore on. His father, the Avatar Aang laughed accordingly at the right moments, encouraging the stories further. Beside Sokka, his wife Suki held his glass upright without skipping a beat as he pounded on the table in emphasis on how heavy the imported cabbages were in the Southern Water Tribe. Tenzin’s sister Kya chatted their aunt’s ear off at her other side.

It was a lovely meal indeed and the company was not so bad either. In fact, Tenzin was looking forward to this family dinner. The week was ending and it was particularly challenging one.

He had a long session with the new Air Acolytes earlier and he had a vague impression that they were not taking him seriously as they would his father. He just wanted to have a relaxing night with the family and Lin.

Granted, Lin was practically family. But it was her that Tenzin was specifically anticipating to spend time with that night. He had a lot of things on his mind but he knew Lin’s presence would help tamp down his worries.

Katara noticed her son’s preoccupation as the dinner went on. Every couple of minutes or so, Tenzin would look up at the doorway, as though expecting someone. As the night went on, his mood turned sour.

Presently, he attempted to stab the sea prune with his spoon.

“Tenzin, dear, would you like a fork?” Katara called out, lightly touching his arm, startling him from his reverie.

“Wha-?” Tenzin was drawn out of his thoughts, as the stew splashed on his robes when the prune slipped from his utensil.

“Fork? Or a knife?” His mother held out a small table knife to him. “Is something bothering you?” Katara had an inkling on what (or rather who) was on his mind. “How was the session today?”

Tenzin shrugged but took the knife. “It was fine, mother.” He wanted to share his misgivings about the air acolytes but did not want his siblings to overhear. “We were able to start and end on time.” Lame as it was, that was the only positive outcome of that meditation session.

“That’s good to hear,” Katara took a bite of her own stew. “They are from the Southern Air Temples, right? How is the restoration going on from their end, did they share anything about it?” She intended to draw him away from his obviously stormy ruminations.

Just as Tenzin was about to respond, Sokka suddenly turned his attention to mother and son. “Heeey – I knew I forgot something! Where’s Lin?”

Tenzin grew uncomfortable as the table went silent, each person looking at him expectantly. He cleared his throat as he loosened his collar. “She’s still at the precinct, I believe.” He did not miss Katara and Aang share a look but he chose not to acknowledge it.

“That young lady is working too hard,” Sokka run his hand at his beard. “On the other hand, look at her sister Suyin, with two kids at the age of twenty-four. I mean, sure they’re both productive, if you get what I mean. Am I right?” He elbowed his wife, looking for affirmation. Suki looked nonplussed. So he leaned to his other side, elbowing Bumi instead, who gave him a thumbs up.

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

Finally, at half past eleven in the evening, Lin found herself unlocking the door to the apartment after satisfactorily completing the documents in time for tomorrow’s meeting.

“Tenzin, I’m home.” She called out, as she took off her boots and removed her armor. “I’m sorry I’m late.” She pulled her long black hair from the bun it was in the whole day. “Had to finish up some paper-.” She finally realized she was alone. “Work.”

The dark and empty room puzzled her but she ignored the unease that crept and proceeded to the bathroom to wash her face.

Seeing the empty space where she and Tenzin kept their toothbrushes and toiletries, Lin cursed.

She just realized she forgot something tonight.

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

After somewhat successfully averting the disaster called Sokka’s big mouth by introducing dessert, Katara followed her youngest child who excused himself to the patio once dessert was served. She studied his stiff posture as he gazed at the distant lights of Republic City.

“Son, is everything okay with Lin?” Katara was not one to beat around the bush. “She’s not in trouble, is she?”

Tenzin shook his head quietly. “She’s fine, Mother.” He really did not want to discuss his relationship right now.

“Don’t mind Sokka,” Katara plodded on. “He’s just probably excited to hear about more grandchildren within our group. You know how he doted on Iroh when Zuko used to bring him over.” She smiled in recollection how Sokka had pranced around with the toddler on his back, pretending to be a dragon.

“Iroh is just a couple of years younger than me.” Tenzin grumbled, not liking where the conversation was headed.

Katara waved him off. “You were well in your teens by then – a far cry from toddling little Iroh.” Seeing no further comment coming from her companion, she gestured to the side buildings. “Do you want me to call on the Air Acolytes to prepare Oogi tonight? I had them bring him to the barns as I thought you’d be staying overnight. They can easily prepare him for your quick trip back to Republic City though.”

“No, it’s fine.” The tall airbender was starting to hate that word: fine. “Oogi’s probably resting already. And I haven’t decided yet if I’ll stay tonight,” His equanimity would be sorely tested should he see Lin now.  “I can always borrow a glider to get back to the mainland.”

“Well, if you’re sure,” His mother gave him a side hug. “You know your father and I are always here for you and Lin, right?”  She felt him nod. “Don’t stay out too late – it’s a bit chilly these nights.”

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

Lin fought with herself as to whether she should drop a call to Air Temple Island at this time. She wanted to speak to Tenzin. Correction: she needed to apologize for forgetting about the family dinner.

Seeing that it was almost midnight with no hint of Tenzin or Oogi in sight, Lin decided to risk waking the household up.

“Pick up, pick up,” Lin murmured as she heard the phone ringing.

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

Unbeknownst to her, the raucous cacophony made by a drunk Sokka, Bumi and Kya drowned out other noises within Aang’s house.

Rolling his eyes as he saw Bumi throwing back a large tankard, Tenzin decided to retreat to his bedroom to bid his time before going home to Lin. There was no way he would allow himself to be dragged into Sokka’s drinking game, which was likely to happen should they see him crossing the threshold to glide away. With a highly skilled waterbender in said drinking group, he did not want to take any risks of possibly being pulled into the ocean at this late hour.

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

With fatigue eventually overcoming him, Tenzin barely felt the mattress shifting nor did he feel the bed dip with the weight of another person joining him. He sighed sleepily as he curled closer to the source of warmth beside him.

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

Note:  Hello to my lone reader! So here’s my trial in creating a Linzin fanfic (cross-posted in archiveofourown too). I’m hesitant to post something online but it felt nice to share it with you. Not sure if this plot has already been done, or if this is a familiar trope already, but just the same I’ll be posting it here as I’ve started to rediscover the fandom recently. I’ve been fascinated by the Linzin pairing and I wanted to give it a shot. There was something very poignant about them and while I’m a sucker for angst, I wanted to try to give it a try to give them a happy ending. This is also non-canon compliant, obviously. Let me know what you think! 😊

==

Other chapters here:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

[malfoygrass]

Superhero Au Drabble: the dark knight of Ministry City

"You've been gone for too long Black Dragon, I hate to admit it, but Ministry City needed you" Harry Potter sighed, as the leader of the city's League of Valor, his alter ego "Chosen One" had been too busy for the past seven years, with powers he sometimes still couldn't understand Chosen One had come a long way from the little boy in privet drive who couldn't control his super strength and flying. Now he worked for the Daily Prophet like a regular Joe.

"I had to leave, my parents were dead, Lord Voldemort was in prison, Bellatrix locked up in Askaban asylum" Black Dragon replied, to which Wondermind, the smartest girl in the team scoffed.

"You just didn't want to get locked up with all his other cronies" the gifted Amazon princess shot out bluntly, ( how Hermione Granger worked as a junior barrister was a mystery), at her side her boyfriend of ten years, Red Beater agreed, silently munching on a snack. (Weasley hadn't changed, much at least)

"Too bad most of them don't stay locked up" the Thunderbolt twins said at the same time " you've missed out"

"We also have new villains popping up left and right, so you better watch out, this isn't the Ministry City you left" Aquastorm said with a sigh, although Neville Longbottom, just like Draco was a wealthy philanthropist, their similarities ended there, where Draco courted the attention, Neville made a show of being shy "for what it's worth, I'm glad you're back"

"The children of some villains have grown up, others have come out of retirement, some have even trained replacements" Moon girl said dreamily then catching everyone unaware she added "You'll be married soon although it will be a hard courtship, since she's not happy to have you back" and sometimes Draco Malfoy really hated Luna Lovegood's cryptic second sight

_______________________________

He came to realize that the League of Valor had been downplaying the ammount of crime in Ministry City as soon as he was back in the fray. Mobsters, supervillains, wannabe sidekicks were ganging up to meet him. Plus the local vigilantes didn't stay behind either.

On one of those days, while helping Aquastorm sort out a problem with toxic chemicals, they got the unexpected help of someone who took Black Dragon by surprise.

"Need any help Aquastorm? I heard a little darkness could do the trick" a musical voice chimed in the distance

"Who was that" Black Dragon gasped as the black clad girl with the silver flower shield conjured a mist of pure dark fog that helped them get the upper hand over their assailants.

"That was the new Nightshade" Aquastorm replied waving at the retreating back of the mysterious superhero "one never knows what she will come up with, but she seems to like me, so if I ever need backup there's a fifty fifty chance that she will show up"

Nightshade? What Draco remembered from that one was that he used to be an antivillain in league with the superheroes of his father's golden age. This new one seemed to be far too young and too female to be the same person.

"Why the afinity with you?"

"Her powers depend on nature and mine on water, we understand each other" Neville shrugged "most of the time she involves plants that grow in dark places and the fog they produce to hide her presence"

Over the weeks Black Dragon had more encounters with Nightshade, tough they didn't talk, she was always showing up to help any superhero she liked or commit her own crimes. and he didn't like it one bit, not only because the girl was halfway between a white collar criminal and a superhero, but because he knew who the previous Nightshade was and if the man had retired then the new Nightshade could only be his daughter.

And he really didn't want her to be.

Nevertheless his theory was proven right when the Malfoy Gala to celebrate his return to Ministry City brought things to head.

So many people showed up he was almost sure that today ten attempts to his life were in progress. Nevermind the ammount of undercover alter egos.

All he needed to do was remain close to Neville and Nightshade would find him.

"Astoria darling, how good to see you, I must say you look enchanting" Augusta Longbottom said drawing Draco's attention to the delicate brunette making her way towards them

"Madame Longbottom, always a pleasure, everyone knws Greengrass Corporations wouldn't be the same without your sponsorship" Astoria replied with the same warmth "Neville, we missed you at the Veteran Awards benefit, I hope Hannah Abbott was worth it" she teased making Neville chuckle

"And what about me? Don't I get a kiss little Greengrass?"

"Dear me, Draco Malfoy I almost didn't recognize you" Astoria pretended to be startled and her pretty socialite smile never wavered "How long has it been? Nine? Ten years? Isn't that right Ollie" She'd arrived in the arm of Oliver Wood, the famous sports player and Draco hated her a bit, just for that.

They all knew it had been seven years.

"Well since it's been so long I suppose you wouldn't mind granting me this dance little Greengrass?" He made his insincere apologies to Oliver Wood and easily spirited Astoria into the middle of the dancefloor

"Must you always have your way?" Astoria muttered annoyed

"Must you always pretend we haven't seen each other lately?" He shot back into her ear "you're playing a dangerous game Astoria, those corporate secrets you stole can be tracked" he slid his hand sensually across her waist "Daphne wouldn't like it"

"Why do you care, Daphne is off playing sidekick to Nott and I'm all that's left" Astoria rolled her eyes "not that it matters, you left that part clear in your little goodbye letter"

"If I'd stayed in Ministry City I would be no better off than Pansy: another second gen villain" Draco hissed slowly maneuvering their dance towards a secluded spot in the balcony "And you were sixteen, I had no business getting involved with you and you know it, no matter how much I cared about you"

"So the alternative was leaving?" Astoria glared at him " don't you know the hell I went through? I LOVED YOU" she accused and Draco felt it like a punch in the gut "then you left and it all went kaput, father died, Nott became a villain and my sister abdicated her place in Greengrass Corporations, I had nobody"

"Astoria I didn't think..." But he had, he'd known that Astoria would survive at a high price "you have to understand I did it to protect you"

"Fat good it did you! I had to learn to protect myself" and he could read the pain in her eyes, before they hardened back to stone "now do us both a favor and stay out of Nightshade's business, I have enough dirt on Malfoy Industries to make life a little harder for you if you keep interfering"

"Not happening, in fact I might just decide to keep a closer eye on you"

"Don't make this harder than it needs to be, I'm engaged to Oliver Wood" she hedged as the music ended "we are to be married next month" And one had to wonder about the perfect timing of Draco's return

"So? Engagements can be broken" Draco shrugged "I hope the honeymoon package offers refunds, we both know they'll be no wedding" not if he had to tie Astoria to his sheets and remind her what had made them so explosive in their teens

"Don't you dare, you left Draco, you can't just come back from the dead and pretend everything is okay anymore than Black Dragon can" Astoria protested "it doesn't work that way"

"You grew up"

"I had to" she glared at him "Greengrass Corporations needed a leader, the streets needed a clean up" Astoria shrugged

"And you Astoria? Did anybody stop to ask what you needed?" His eyes were sad, taking her hand he brought it to his lips for a kiss wondering what Ministry City had done to his boyhood sweetheart

"I just needed you" and if that wasn't the most heartbreaking thing for Astoria, then she didn't know what was "my world fell apart and all I needed was you, but now it's too late...I don't need you anymore"

"Liar" Draco chuckled, crushing his lips to hers, savoring the first stolen kiss with the girl he hadn't been able to forget in seven years "is it really too late Astoria?" He whispered into her lips

Astoria was looking at him with a mixture of aprehension and desire "I don't know" she whispered back "things are so complicated now"

"Then I'll make them simple" Draco shrugged walking her back to Oliver Wood and her court of hypocrites "let's have dinner in Malfoy Mannor, tomorrow at five my car will pick you up" and the look he gave her left no room for protests "I'll let you seduce me for a change"

"You have no idea what you're asking for Malfoy"

"I'll be seeing you Little Greengrass" it occurred to him that Moon girl was right once again. He was going to marry Astoria Greengrass one day, because this time, he wouldn't let her go that easy.

An: Drabble companion to the superhero au Aesthetic I posted a few hours ago

[polandspringz]

Ten Feet Taller- MoominValley Fic

Snufkin finally reaches his breaking point. Moomintroll listens. The two make a promise, but it will take time for Snufkin to come around to fulfill it. A fic through the seasons, and the years as the friends grow and age alongside and far away from one another.

Disclaimer: I’ve only watched like 3 episodes of the 2019 series so far, but I’ve seen clips and summaries of the other episodes floating around, and have been watching the 1990 show. Most of this was inspired by this post by @lionettea , my own ramblings here and the “Ready Now” by Dodie. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a beta reader for this, but I’ve had it sitting around for a few days and I really wanted to share it. Enjoy!

Seasons were important to Moomins. Winters are spent in hibernation, springs are about waking up and cherishing loved ones who you had missed while asleep. Midsummers are around the bonfires, and falls were for slowing down, learning to relax once more as sleep would soon overtake the species once more. Moomintroll had seen his fair share of seasons, and while Moominpapa and Moominmama would always talk about tradition with the celebrations and customs that were to observed, Moomintroll had his own thoughts for what should be done when a change blew through the valley.

As a child, he too had believed that the snowy months were designed for nothing but resting, but many years ago, he was lucky to learn that adventures could be had in the cold too. Snorkmaiden had mentioned once that snow droplets were meant to symbolize the return of loved ones, and to Moomin, they always seemed to blossom a brighter white when Snufkin’s springtime tune came whistling through the trees of the forest that weaved between the mountains. Summers were full of Little My’s schemes, hatched to torment Moomin no doubt, and several hands reaching towards the starry night sky as they all tried to catch the fireflies the formed constellations on the wind.

Falls were the most different to him though. Fall was always fast-paced, and no matter how he tried to savor it, Snufkin and him had to jampack so many memories into that season, as even if Moomin had decided to stay up for the first fews of winter in case Snufkin wanted to stay, he never did. He needed time to be alone, and Moomin understood, even if it made his heart sad, he needed to let him go. As the sun set and the snow began to collapse on their world, the orange sunlight would shine on it like colorful crystals that shimmered beside Snufkin’s smiling face, eyes crinkled as they closed and the twinkling sound of the snow through the icy air chimed.

For many years, Moominmama and Moominpapa stood by him as he waved him off, and then, a change happened, and Snorkmaiden took their place, trying her best to comfort Moomintroll once the shadow of their friend had faded into the brush. And then, a few more seasons came and went, and Moomintroll was standing next to Little My as he waved, her body smaller than ever as her back had become hunched and her hair faded from autumn leaves to the silver of snow against the cobblestone.

Even with all those memories, Moomintroll still felt that every year had a different set of seasons, and each of them should be treated as such, not grouped together. Certainly some shared similar moments, but there were many that stood out in his mind as special and unique.

The first spring that Snufkin arrived...

The winter when he had met Too-Ticky...

The summer when he had noticed that Snufkin was different. It followed a year with a spring where Snufkin had been late arriving to the valley, when it had taken him two extra days to show after the warm air had settled over the grassy hills, and Moomin had grown worried with the fear that his friend was not returning that year. That perhaps he had done something at the end of the winter that had offended his nomadic friend, but all doubts disappeared when Snufkin returned the morning after, and soon they were up to their heads with dragons, avoiding Little My’s pranks, and on the quiet days, fishing along the river as Snufkin played his harmonica or told stories of what new things he had seen.

It wasn’t until the next summer that Moomin noticed Snufkin’s quiet days became a quiet week, and they weren’t full of stories or fishing. They were full of silence, of frowns and shielded eyes. Snufkin became snappy, which was common for when they were dealing with Sniff, but it was rare that he ever became hot headed at Moomin, or, it became rare after that summer, because never before had he acted that way towards him. Moomin learned of the course of that summer that if Snufkin didn’t leave his tent which was on the banks of the river, you didn’t knock to wake him up. If he didn’t stop by for food, you told Moominmama that he already ate. If he was found asleep on a hill, hat pulled over his face and harmonica abandoned, you didn’t ask for a tune, you tiptoed by. Even the animals learned this, and stayed away.

Little My said that Snufkin would get better with distance, that it was like he always had said, he needed some alone time, but then summer came to pass and fall arrived and suddenly they both became acutely aware of how they were running out of time yet neither one of them could seem to cross the rift to the other. Moomin felt horrible, felt guilty, and that was fall that had autumn sucked out of it, and it didn’t just feel slow, it felt endless. Something he had always wished for with that season was now misery when granted, and it was suffocating. Little My tried to take his mind of things by dragging him out to the forest to play, and it was there that he encountered Snufkin, rageful and spiteful as he spat out words at the Moomin who had surprised him, a single crunch of a leaf burning down months of walls in the worst way possible.

But, that was the fall that he saw Snufkin cry.

Little My disappeared, and the two of them sat down on the fiery rubble of their isolation and Snufkin stumbled over his words, his fingers twitching like he longed for his harmonica to be in place of his lips, playing notes that he knew would convey it but through the tears and the choked sobs being unable to play his voice in that same way. Moomintroll stopped his quivering and apologies though, and made it very clear to Snufkin that whatever was bothering him was no burden to him. He promised to listen to him and that Snufkin wasn’t taking away from their time together.

“You would probably rather be doing something fun,” Snufkin said, wiping his eyes on his sleeve.

“We can have fun later,” Moomin said, resting a hand on the other’s back, “Take your time.”

This was their time.

When all was said and done, and secrets were shared between the two of them, they took one another’s hand and stood, red eyed against the red sun that was setting. They realized that this was supposed to be their last day together of the year.

“I can’t stay, I’m sorry Moomin, I can’t, if I do-”

“It’s alright,” he told his friend, no sadness on his expression, “We’ll get through this. Will start with this winter. Then, when you return, that’s step two. Okay?”

Snufkin rubbed his eyes again, his soft voice made almost inaudible by his tight throat, “Okay. I’m ready now.”

That evening, Snufkin set out like always, and Moomin did not sleep that winter. While Little My rested in his bed, he worked day and night preparing for Snufkin’s return, so when the birds came singing the new spring tune, and that green hat came barreling out of the forest on that first day, he could give him the promise that he would never forget him.

Many years came and went, and as much as he wished they wouldn’t, memories began to blend together. Even after their talk and the follow-up that next spring, there was one year where Snufkin came two seasons late, one when he left half way. Traditions were broken, and that familiar spring tune was altered by the babbling of the summer’s brook or the cut up by the mystery of the fall’s weather. Moomin always forgave Snufkin for these visits, as often the stories he brought made up for why he was late or why he had to leave early. A promise to a friend, a letter from his father that had mysteriously appeared. Sometimes, he didn’t have any stories at all, sometimes, he had nothing to share, but Moomin killed his apology before it could be voiced.

“You don’t have to say sorry, I understand,” Moomin said, and Snufkin smiled.

This only seemed to make things worse. One year, Snufkin didn’t return until late fall, and he happened to stroll into the valley on a day where the skies were gray and the clouds were heavy. Moomin was nowhere to be found, and Snufkin was afraid his worst fears had come true. He broke into the Moomin household, only to discover Little My at the kitchen table, angrily awaiting his arrival.

“Moomin’s upstairs. Moominmama and Moominpapa have passed.”

Snufkin helped his friend bury his loved ones. He stayed that winter. He promised never to be late again. It also seemed that he was never going to go, even though Moomin could see how much being tied down was killing his friend.

“You need to go, Snufkin,” Moomin told him when the next fall came, “You’ve missed out on so much.”

“I can’t, Moomin. I’ve been a terrible friend, you needed me, and I almost didn’t come back. What would you have done if I had been a day late? What would you have done if I didn’t come back at all?”

Moomintroll grabbed his friend’s face and stared into his eyes, speaking as firmly as he did the day they had their talk that summer, “I would have been fine, Snufkin. I’m fine in Moominvalley. However, you’re not fine yet. You need to be alone. Go, Snufkin. I’ll be okay.”

He will never forget how Snufkin began to tear up again, “Are you sure?”

Moomin nodded, “I’m ready now.”

It had been many seasons, many years since that day. That was the year that Little My stood beside him and bid Snufkin goodbye. Their friend had faded into the forest, and even as light trickled in from the canopy of green leaves that lined the top of the forest, no shadows ever passed through their sunrays. For many years, Moomintroll just sat on the porch in his mother’s rocking chair, on rainy days he sat in his father’s study while Little My cooked meals, and out the window he would be watching the bridge over the river, waiting for that green hat to come across it.

Eventually, Moomin succumbed to his age and he could no longer avoid the urge to hibernate all winter long, and his years without sleep had made him dizzy towards the end of the fall. After much coaxing, Little My managed to get him to bed, but not until he made her promise to wake him at any sign of Snufkin.

“Go to sleep you big oaf. He’ll be back in the spring, I’m sure of it.”

Like always had disappeared, but promises weren’t empty things. Snufkin hadn’t broken his promise, and neither had Moomin. They just hadn’t fulfilled it yet.

They would fulfill it.

Moomintroll awoke to the sound of the spring singing in through his open window, Little My standing above him, a smile on his haggard, old face. Her hands on her hips, she gave Moomin a powerful kick that sent him rolling out of bed.

“I told you he would be back, you oaf. Now, hurry up before he thinks you’re gone too.”

Moomin changed out of his pajamas and took off down the stairs, ignoring the creak of his old bones as he passed by all the windows in the house, open as their curtains danced in the breeze, the hum of nature growing louder and more shrill as birds, beavers, and other animals joined in on the song.

The door flew open, and white feet descended down the porch steps. The song stopped and the player lowered his harmonica, hand dropping at his side. The music paused for a gasp, and then a call of the other’s name. A white, furry hand waved in the air, a green hat fell to the wayside as it’s owner took off. To the bridge, the two old friends raced towards each other with open arms, and the one with the yellow scarf tackled the other so they both fell backwards and rolled into the river.

They surfaced with laughter, and they gazed at one another with glowing eyes as the yellow sun rose on the blue sky, morning dew speckling the grass around the banks and across the flowers of the valley. With the help of one another, they pulled themselves out of the water and stood on the firm ground of the hill, and awaited the other to say it first, but realization soon dawned on each other, and they were both giddy with excitement that had been locked away since childhood for this day.

Little My stood on the porch, shaking her head as she heard them shouting the words back and forth and each other, voices growing louder and louder until they were in unison and jumping up and down with joy.

“You’ve been ready for decades now, you goofs. All of us have known that much.”

Moominmama and Moominpapa were resting on the cliffs in the back of the valley, where Too-Ticky had asked Moomintroll to take care of the lost souls many years ago. Little My had picked that spot out for them herself, and Moomin and Snufkin had agreed. It just so happened that a few days into Snufkin’s return, the two of them had to dig a third, smaller grave, and Moomin sprinkled it with snow droplets after it was covered up.

That evening, the two friends sat inside the house at the kitchen table, empty cups of badly brewed tea beside some plucked flowers.

“She was disappointed in us, huh?”

“No, I think she understood too.”

“Again, Moomin, I’m sorry it took so long but I-”

“No, remember, enough with the sorrys. Remember what we said?”

“Yes.”

“Well then…”

The two of them took a breath, their old lungs weak but still able to take in the scent of the evening springtime air, and let it out with that old expression they had decided upon years ago.

“Okay. I’m ready now.”

[platinumsupa]

One Shot: The Dragon’s Hoard

A silly little domestic piece of fluff I wrote for some my best friends in the fandom, Undersea-Anchor and All-the-Cliches. (and also, half to break my writer’s block if I’m gonna be brutally honest). I posted this on the discord last night, but I’ve now added a real ending to it, so I decided to post it here too.

Anyway, a future-AU Diakko one shot! 

The Cavendish family has always filled its ranks with adventurers and those looking for something more. Now, it would appear that the newest member of the Cavendish family is playing a daring game with a dragon...

(~2000 words)

~~~

Ami Cavendish ran through the Dragon’s Cavern as fast as her accursedly short legs could carry her. She gripped the Mystic Amulet she had stolen from the Hoard tightly in her young hands. She didn’t quite know where she was going, but she knew that she had to hurry.

She could hear the booming steps of her pursuer right behind her, hunting her down to take back what was hers, and the Witch who stole it along with it.

It was coming too fast for her to outrun for long. Thinking quickly, she hid behind a rock formation, hugging her knees to her chest to make herself smaller. She was not a moment too soon, as seconds after she ducked her head down, the room rumbled under the girth of a monstrous creature.

The Queen of Dragons entered the Cavern, her piercing blue eyes searching for her prey.

“Where did you go, little Ami?” The dragon called out, in an almost teasing voice. “You can’t hide forever, you know. I’m going to get you…”

Ami, despite her age, was a brave adventure, armed with the training and knowledge of her mothers. But even she could not defeat the beast alone. The Queen of Dragons was much too powerful. Her only option was to hide as the Dragon prowled over to an adjacent end of the cavern.

“Could you be…” The dragon suddenly ripped apart a rock formation. “Here? Ah, no. You wouldn’t hide there, would you? Perhaps she has escaped me…”

Ami covered her mouth, desperate not to make a sound as the footsteps approached her hiding position.

“Unless…”

The dragon’s powerful voice was low and menacing as she neared, growing closer with every second.

“…perhaps you might be behind…”

Ami glanced up to see the razor-sharp claws curl around the top of the rock, before it slowly began to pull it away…

~~~

Diana tossed the couch cushion aside, leveling Ami with a wicked grin. “…here!”

Ami scrambled to her feet, but before she could even think about getting away, Diana scooped her daughter into her arms with a thundering, monstrous growl.

The young girl wriggled and writhed to escape from her clutches. Her squirming only grew more frantic when Diana’s fingers started digging into her sides. “N-no! No no! Let me go!”

“I’ve got you now, little Ami.” Diana said, hugging her tighter. “And now the only thing left to do…is to eat you right up!”

Ami shrieked as Diana began nuzzling her face into her short, platinum blonde hair. “Aiiieee! Mama, help! She’s got me!”

Akko heroically dashed into the living room. “Not on my watch, you won’t, dragon! I’ll make sure you let that Great Witch go! Psheew!”

Akko waved her magic staff (in actuality, a random bauble Ami had found rummaging through a junk drawer) and at once, Diana clutched at her chest with a mighty groan. 

The newly freed Ami scampered away to hide behind Akko’s legs. “Mama, we must keep the Amulet away from the Queen of Dragons!” Ami said, pressing the piece of jewelry into Akko’s hands. “It’s the only way to revive the World Tree and save magic as we know it!”

Diana pushed herself up to her knees, briefly breaking character as she did so. “Hold on. Don’t run so fast, you two. You’re going to slip and hurt yourself.”

Akko nodded at their daughter. “Got it! If you can save the day before the Amulet loses its power, you’ll be the greatest witch of all time!” She said. After meeting the look in Diana’s eye, she quickly added, “…but, you know, we can do it a little slower.”

Akko reached over to help her wife up to her feet. Diana smiled, and gratefully took her hand. Almost instinctively, Akko leaned over as Diana pressed quick peck to her cheek.

Ami’s face scrunched up at the display. “…Dragons aren’t supposed to kiss heroes.”

“And what if the dragon truly wishes to give someone a little kiss every now and then?” Diana challenged, not relinquishing Akko’s hand from her own.

Ami wasn’t entirely sure how to argue against that, but from the look on her face, she clearly didn’t agree.  “…But she’s a Great Witch too, Mother.” She eventually decided. “We’re supposed to be defeating the dragons to save all of magic. It doesn’t make any sense for them to kiss.”

“Oh…” Akko realized. “…oh no…”

Ami’s eyes widened. “What?”

“The dragon queen! She’s…she’s using her mind powers to…hypnotize me!”

“What?”

“It’s too late for me!” Akko cried. “Save yourself, Ami! She’s got me! I’m…I’m falling to the dark side…!”

With a breathless gasp, Akko dramatically fell backwards into Diana’s arms as she pretended to daintily faint away.

Diana arched a brow at the woman now draped across her torso. “And what precisely do you think you’re doing?”

“It’s called improv, Di, you gotta keep up.” Akko waggled her brows. “Besides, if I’m on the dark side, I get to do this.”

She pushed herself upward until her lips met Diana’s. Akko grinned ear to ear as she pulled away. Diana fondly shook her head.

“You’re cute, darling.”

“Adorable.” Akko agreed. Diana snorted.

Their daughter, meanwhile, was completely indignant. “The dragon doesn’t have mind powers!” Ami insisted.

“But it would seem she does now, doesn’t it?” Diana said, narrowing her eyes dangerously. “And now, with that kiss, your Mama is under my wicked spell. How will you ever find the right magical hex to break her free?”

In response, Akko fell from Diana’s arms and to her knees. “Urgh, I’m changing…” She slowly trudged her way over to her daughter. “You need to get away, Ami…because I’m…I’m…”

Akko made a sudden grab at Ami, just barely (and deliberately) missing her entirely.

“I’m gonna getcha!”

Ami turned on her heels and ran, a surprised laugh escaping her lips. Akko was hot on her heels, tickling at the girl’s sides whenever she could get her hands within reach. The two of them dashed from one corner of the living room to the other.

Diana ended up giggling through her attempts at a reprimand. “A-Akko, for goodness sake!”

“You can’t team up!” Ami cried as she ducked under another grab. “I should be a dragon too now! You’re not allowed to team up anymore! Mother, help!”

“You better run!” Akko grinned. “I’m gonna get you! I’m gonna-!”

And it was right in that moment that Anna, the head maid, decided to walk into the living room, with a tray full of snacks. Akko barely managed to avoid colliding into her, largely from years’ worth of experience doing exactly that.

Ami was not quite so lucky.

“Good heavens!” Anna gasped. The tray fell from her hands, and clattered to the ground, sending her snacks all over the living room floor.

The three members of the Cavendish family collectively froze.  

“Ahaha…” Akko met the glare being sent her way, and winced. “Um…sorry?”

Anna planted her hands on her hips in an especially unamused manner. “Lady Diana. I thought you brought home one child, not three.”

Diana coughed into her fist. “M-my apologies, Anna. Here, don’t trouble yourself. I’ll clean it up. It was my fault.”

As Diana quickly went to work to clean up the mess their game had made, she gave Ami a soft tap on her back, and the kind of significant look a child understood from their parent almost immediately. The little girl folded her hands in front of her dress and shyly approached Anna.

“I’m very sorry, Miss Anna.” Ami said. “It was an accident. It won’t happen again.”

Anna snorted. “I’ve certainly heard that before.”

Ami bowed deeply, visibly worried that she truly hurt the woman’s feelings this time. “I’m very very sorry! We were just playing a game, I didn’t mean to make a mess. Please don’t be mad?”

Anna gave her a skeptical look for a moment, before bending down to her level, signaling her to get closer so she could whisper into her ear.

“…You had better take this, then.” Anna discreetly handed her the key to the Manor’s library. “It will let you enter the magic realm. I’ll hold off your pursuers for as long as I can until then.”

Ami nodded solemnly. “I won’t forget what you’ve done here today, Miss Anna.”

“And don’t leave the…! Ah, magic tomes…all over the floor this time!” Anna called out to Ami’s rapidly retreating form. With that, Anna was left to be sacrificed to the ferocious dragons.

Diana picked up the last remnants of food and placed them on the tray to be washed up. “Are you alright, Anna?”

“Of course.” Anna nodded. “…though I must admit, sometimes I’m a little unprepared for how lively this house is these days.”

“I can certainly agree. All the years we’ve lived here…I never quite realized how overdue this old house was for some happy memories…”

Diana’s thoughts traveled back in time as her eyes wandered across the room, from the aged antiques that had been here since the day she was born, and all the new additions and touch-ups that had been added in her adult life.

The Manor truly wasn’t the same place anymore.

Akko sheepishly rubbed at the back of her neck. “Guess I should’ve slowed down like you said, huh? My bad. I just got a bit too into the game, is all.”

“Don’t apologize.” Diana shook her head. “She’s having a good time. That’s the important thing.”

“Hee, maybe one day she’ll grow up and we’ll all get to go up against real dragons together. How would that be for some quality family time?”

“Oh, stop.” Diana waved her hand. “I don’t think I’m ready to imagine her growing up yet. She’s just so curious, and full of energy…she gets that from you, you know. Sometimes, I wish these days could just last forever.”

Akko blinked. “Diana…? Is everything alright?”

Diana grinned. “Alright? I used to wonder what kind of life my mother imagined for me when I was Ami’s age. But now I’ve got a beautiful daughter of my own. I married the best friend I ever had. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so blessed.”

“You still get really sappy sometimes, huh?” Akko teased.

Diana snaked her arms around her wife’s shoulders, and pulled her closer. “I have everything I could ever want under one roof. Can you really blame me…?”

The kiss Diana gifted to Akko was filled with the kind of gratefulness mere words couldn’t express. Akko was not the spouse Diana’s ancestors had pictured for her. But instead, she was so much greater. Diana could spend a lifetime searching for just the right way to thank her for all the joy she had brought into her life.

And she intended to do exactly that. Their lips parted, and Diana caught the flicker of light glinting off of Akko’s wedding ring.

Akko, a little more red-faced and misty eyed than she likely realized, opened her mouth to say something sweet in return, but spotted something out of the corner of her eye.

“…I don’t think dragons are supposed to kiss heroes though. Or that’s what I heard, at least.”

Diana looked over. Ami was sticking her head around the corner of the hallway, spying on what the two of them were doing instead of finishing their game with her.

“Hmm…” Diana absently called out. “It seems my…dragon…nose…still smells an intruder. Where could she be hiding this time?”

Ami quickly ducked her head out of sight. The pitter-pattering sound of feet running down the hallway was all it took for Diana’s smile to spread even wider across her face.

“Dragon nose.”

“Don’t you mock me, Atsuko.”

“I’m just saying! You just gotta work on your improv skills!”

“Then perhaps I should keep practicing. I believe we gave her enough of a head start.” Diana turned to her wife, and gestured down the hall of the Manor. “Let’s go find our daughter then, shall we?”

[inawickedlittletown]

Walking The Wire (45/?)

Summary: Tony Stark always knew about Peter Parker. He didn’t know that Peter was going to get superpowers and become Spider-Man, but he always knew about Peter because Peter was his son.

This will span from pre-Iron Man up through the rest of the MCU (eventually including Infinity War) and will be for the most part canon compliant except where I’ve taken some liberties and interpreted canon a certain way.

Pairings: Pepper/Tony, Tony/Steve (endgame), Tony/Mary (past)

A/N: If you want me to tag you when I post new chapters let me know. This fic is also on AO3

I used Collider’s MCU timeline to stay canon and the title of this fic is an Imagine Dragons song that is just so fitting for Peter and Tony

Masterpost

Chapter Forty Four

Tony felt like he had been halved. Like someone had cut out his heart and thrown Cap’s shield on it edge first. And then because that wasn’t enough, it had also been thrown into oncoming traffic, run over, and then scrapped off only to be stomped on. It wasn’t even just a metaphorical pain but physical. His chest was tight and his head was pounding.

Maria Stark had been something else. Tony had never really thought about his mother as formidable, but she had to have been to deal with Howard. She hadn’t been the housewife that everyone thought her to be and aside from being in charge of numerous charitable foundations, she had been brilliant in her own ways and free in her own ways. Somehow, she had loved Howard. But more importantly, she had loved Tony and Tony had adored her.

Tony grew up fast, partly due to his genius but mostly because Howard pushed him to and Maria just thought that maybe Howard knew best when it came to her brilliant child. Tony didn’t resent Maria for boarding school or for all the grades he skipped and entering MIT at the tender age of fifteen which was crazy to think about because his own son wasn’t even fifteen yet. He felt the way she cared with every touch and every phone call and every visit home and when they died it was her death he mourned. She was his mom.

Their deaths had lingered for him for so long that Tony never thought that grief would ever leave and it was a wound that Tony had tried to fill up with parties and drinking and sex but mostly with avoidance. Eventually things had gotten better -- it had become an ache that hid away until there was something to remind him of it. Lately, B.A.R.F had made a difference and Tony had started to move past it. It was twenty steps back now. All that work had fallen by the wayside with the grainy video and Bucky — Steve’s Bucky -- had done it. Logically he could tell himself that it was Hydra but that was a hard thing to conform to because he had seen it. He had seen that man kill both his father and mother with his own eyes and that wasn’t something that could be scrubbed away.

Tony didn’t regret going after a fight. He didn’t regret his reaction because it was justified even if it was thoughtless. He was also still fairly upset with Steve because even if he hadn’t known that Barnes was to blame, he had known Hydra was and he never planned on letting Tony know. Not even after they had started whatever it was they had started. Tony didn’t know if he regretted the kiss they’d shared when it was all over and the fight had been drawn away from him or not. He supposed that maybe he didn’t because even this lie and this betrayal did nothing to take away his feelings for Steve even if he was still hurt and angry.

Tony had let them leave first, lingering inside the bunker while they did because he didn’t know if he could see Barnes again. Or for that matter watch Steve leave with no idea as to when he would see him again.

“We will find a way to fix this,” T’Challa had said after Steve walked out, returning because he’d left something behind but maybe because he wanted to talk to Tony alone. “The Accords were not meant to harm good men and women and my grief blinded me a bit on that. I think you can agree.”

“You could say that,” Tony said.

“I want to know that we can try and do something to change it,” T’Challa said. “This has not gone the way any of us wanted it to. We’ll meet again, Tony Stark. You’re a good man. And it went for you too, you are welcome in Wakanda any time.”

Tony nodded. He didn’t know if he would take him up on visiting Wakanda knowing that Barnes would probably be there but Tony knew they’d be in contact soon. In the end, none of what happened in Siberia would make him forget that he had one more important priority than anything else and a huge problem to deal with. It seemed that things would never slow down for him.

Tony called Happy on the flight back to Berlin, back in the quinjet that Steve and Barnes had taken and then left for him.

“Hey, how’s the kid doing?”

“He’s alright,” Happy said, “you know this really isn’t part of the job description.”

“I’ll be there in the morning and take him home personally,” Tony said because he wanted to keep the conversation short.

“Sure thing, boss. But I do have to--”

“I’ll talk to you later, Happy,” Tony said and hung up before Happy could respond.

He sank back into the seat of the quinjet and let out a long breath. A part of him wanted to just run and hide. He wanted to fly directly to New York and go to the tower and lock himself in the workshop. It would have been the easier thing to do especially since even he couldn’t know if his intention had been to kill Barnes like Steve clearly thought it was. He had just known that he had to do something and that Barnes killed his parents. Killed his mom.

It was painful to think about and even worse because Steve should have told him about Hydra’s involvement in their deaths and instead he had kept quiet. Tony believed him when he said that he hadn’t known it was Barnes that did it, but he had still kept it from Tony and Tony couldn’t look past that. Maybe he would have felt different if he and Steve weren’t together in a romantic sense, but Tony just couldn’t be sure.

It was only thinking of Peter and Rhodey that made him hold on and not fall apart immediately. After all, they were both still in Berlin. Tony had already called in Dr. Cho to take care of Rhodey along with her team and he hoped that they’d be able to transfer him back to the states soon. He also didn’t want to just leave Peter to Happy. Not when he could tell that Happy wasn’t exactly thrilled to be looking after a teenager. He probably thought it was below him and that he had better things to do back in New York even if he had started asking for more responsibility. The thing of it was that Tony just didn’t have need for a driver or for a bodyguard but even though Happy had become head of security for SI, he always fell back on those positions and Tony just couldn’t change that. He also did consider Happy a friend and he wanted to keep him around even if sometimes Happy tended to get a bit intense. Maybe Tony would need to find something else for him to do.

Either way, even if Happy had been happy to look after Peter, Tony wanted to be the one to take Peter back home if only because he wanted to be completely sure that Peter was alright and because he wanted to take any moment he had with Peter and treasure it.

The meeting that Tony had always wanted hadn’t gone in any way how Tony expected or wanted it to, but it happened and Tony loved his kid. He loved everything about him, even his superhero tendencies, and Tony couldn’t wait to see him again.

When he arrived in Berlin he headed to the hospital first. It was just after midnight and Happy had messaged him with an update on Peter so Tony wasn’t worried. If there was one thing he could trust it was that Happy did take his tasks seriously. Still, he was eager to see Peter so his stop at the hospital wasn’t going to be long. He just needed to check in.

Rhodey was asleep when Tony stopped by his room and Vision sat in a chair next to the bed looking pensive.

“He’s the same,” Vision said.

Tony had expected as much. Spine injuries were not something that could just be fixed or reversed. The only option would be some sort of prosthetic or exoskeleton. Rhodey would have options, Tony would make sure of that.

“I realize now that it is emotion that has gotten the best of me,” Vision said. “I was distracted by Wanda.”

“Oh,” Tony said. He didn’t know if had expected Vision to actually voice that or not.

“I thought the connection I had with her was just to do with her powers and the stone but it is more than that. I -- I wish things had ended differently.”

“So do I, Viz, so do I,” Tony said.

“Would you -- should someone take a look at your injuries?”

His arm ached something fierce. They had put it in a sling earlier and Tony was sure that he had probably injured it even more in the fight with Bucky, but the physical pain was nothing to the rest and even Tony could tell that his arm wasn’t broken. He had a black eye, he knew, and his ribs on his right side felt sore but he’d had worse and survived.

“No, no, I’m fine,” Tony said and moved closer to Rhodey.

The nurse had told him that Rhodey wouldn’t be walking up until morning so Tony just leaned over him and pressed a kiss to his forehead and whispered an apology.

“Contact me if anything happens -- have him call me when he wakes up.”

Vision nodded.

Chapter Forty Six

[punk-as-funk]

Tag 20 blogs you'd like to know better and have them answer the following...

Tagged by: @fangirling-sea-anemone

Zodiac: Gemini Rising, Libra Sun, Taurus Moon, Pisces Midheaven, Wood Ox.

Height: 5'4 ½ (which is hilarious considering some of my hobbies and the impressions I apparently give people).

Last Thing You Googled: Deltoid ligament tears (and other medical stuff); likely factoids on some random soccer player.  Possibly the history of a particular country or region or ethnic group. Or lyrics to some song.

Favorite Music Artists: Geez… lately?  Uhhh let’s skim through my Spotify playlists…  The Prodigy (kind of my game music), American Authors, Gin Wigmore, Lorde, Florence + the Machine, Alessia Cara, Cake, X Ambassadors, Gorillaz, Grouplove, Matt & Kim, Ed Sheeran, Fun, Gnarls Barkley, Hayley Kiyoko, Vance Joy, Janelle Monae, Smash Mouth, The Chemical Brothers, The Knocks, Powers, Citizen Cope, Jesca Hoop, and more.

Song Stuck in Your Head?: Last 24 hours?  “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran. (Would LOVE for someone to do a group and queer af cover of that song, man.  That would make my month.)

Last Movie You Watched: My patient’s parents were watching Assassin’s Creed last night, and subsequently learned that I used to love/play the shit out of some of those games (I mean, who DOESN’T want to stick it to The Man with the cunning use of parkour?).

What Are You Wearing Right Now?: A red “Annie Get Your Gun” T-Shirt I got from a thrift store years ago, navy boy’s gym shorts, comfy grey Skechers cross-walkers, all the usual undies.  UPDATE: I am now at work, wearing scrubs.  Surprise!

What Do You Post?: Depends on the blog in question.  My main is mostly memes, jokes, political stuff, and personal stuff.  Very SJW and not hiding/apologizing for it one bit.  But my sideblogs are far more… themed and the range of what is typically posted on them is… fairly self evident?  (I have a sideblogs link/tab somewhere on here.)

Why Did You Choose Your URL?: My ex-wife once said my characteristic of “angry, radical compassion and acceptance” was “punk as FUCK!.”  For some reason that tickled the fuck out of me.  So when I started my THIRD new (and current) main Tumblr, while drunk, I decided to make that my URL.  Except I was drunk. So I made a typo. Which I also found hilarious. So I kept it. So.

Do You Have Any Other Blogs?: Yes.  See, I have friends who like very different shit and one would complain about me posting soccer shit while another would complain about me posting gory nursing shit, or obsessing over video games, or spamming them with queer shit from TV shows.  So I separated all that out into sideblogs, with the idea that y’all can follow what you like, forget what you don’t.  (All my sideblogs have “rei” in their title, if that helps.)

What Did Your Past Relationship Teach You?: Severe trust issues.  To not compromise where I’m going and all that I am for the sake of another.  To not let my caring of others get exploited by those I should be able to trust the most, and subsequently nearly destroy me.  I’m in my thirties now and I’m tired and over and done with all that shit.  I get a whiff of codependency from others and my ass is gone.  My path is my own.  If our paths intersect for awhile and you wish to walk beside me, keep me company for awhile (long while, short while), fine.  But my path is my own.  I will not stray from it again.

Religious or Spiritual?: Kind of spiritually philosophical and linguistically curious.  I love stories and sometimes ponder on what it all means.  (Was raised conservative Episcopalian with Mormon and Methodist family members on the side, though.  As you can tell that shit totally stuck.  *sarcasm*)

Favorite Color: Bluegreens (teal, cyan, aquamarine).

Avg Hours of Sleep: Dude, I’m a nurse. *laughs* *cries*

Lucky Number: I like 144 because it’s 12 squared or (2^4)x(3^2) which for some reason my brain feels is this whole, complete, perfect thing that can be broken down in so, so many ways.  It has a good feel to it.

Favorite Characters: Oh geez… what kind of media? Should I just… okay Mercy and Tracer and Zarya from Overwatch, uh Disco Stormtrooper, Rey and her starbros, Xena & Gabrielle, Raphael from TMNT (he’s not angry he’s painfully compassionate!), basically the entire main cast of Sense8, Tigress from Kung Fu Panda, Garrus from Mass Effect (he my bro), Varric and Isabella from Dragon Age (also my bros; we know what’s up), the Doctor from ST:V, Legolas (his husband the dwarf can come too), pretty much every character I can think of who is an archer, the entire main cast of Person of Interest, Kara “Starbuck” Thrace (my beautiful fucked up badass puppy; damn to the depths of media hell whoever decided to chickify her), Sara Lance, and a bunch of others too…

How Many Blankets Do You Sleep With?: I have a sheet, a blanket, a comforter, 1-4 regular pillows, and a body pillow I may sleep with in any sort of combination depending on the temp and my mood.  I like heaviness on my body and half-assedly sleep-grappling (hilariously my ex was the absurd intense cuddler, not I), but I also hate feeling sweaty or like I’m suffocating or some limb is falling asleep / going numb.

Dream Job: Anything that would allow me to travel, play, create, and influence people in a positive manner.  There’s enough suffering in the world already; I’d like to be one to ease it, not contribute to it.  Also, what is life without a little adventure and curiosity?

[theareya]

even numbers for the gaming asks!

Okay, its been 1000 years since I posted this gaming ask. But here are the answers!!!! I put most under the read more…

2. First game you played?The first game I ever played ever, in thehistory of forever, was Super Mario Bros. at my babysitter’s house, if mymemory serves me correctly

4. Longest consecutive hours you’ve played agame?Ohkay, let’s see. Without eating or bathing,but I did get up briefly to bathroom and drink water, I finished uncharted 1,2, and 3 consecutively in 120 hrs. Needless to say, I never did that again, asthe blood vessels in my eyes popped, I ate two bigmacs after, and my parentsyelled at me. Otherwise, without moving or tending to most of my basic bodilyneeds, 10 hours max as of late.

6. An underrated game from within the last fewyears?I don’t know, I’m probably biased and neverreally look online to see how the game was rated/how it’s doing. Oh! But! Ireally liked Battleborn, which was basically a game that came out like a littlebefore Overwatch? Or near the same time, actually. You also fight in teamsagainst one another with unique character abilities to obtain certainobjectives. Honestly, it is extremely well done and detailed, but very muchfalls in Overwatch’s shadow possibly due to similarity and budget D:  8. The game with the best atmosphere/scenery?I’m biased. I love Bioshock. But I also am ahuge fan of those apocalyptic, dystopia aesthetics. So, essentially, anythingalong the lines of bioshock, Fallout, and Last of us.

10. Prefer PC or console?I’ve always played on console. And I’m so bad atPC. You would think it’s a bit easier to aim a cursor to shoot at something,but I’m particularly bad at that.

12. Most bizarre game you’ve ever played?Most games are pretty… bizarre. Most of theactual weird ones I’ve only seen online on those “top ten weirdest video games”but maybe Katamari? There are definitely weirder ones… The Nightmare Within wasalso… strange. I don’t actually know what counts as bizarre anymore in thegaming world. Shrek party…

14. Do you watch playthroughs online?Sometimes, yes! If I know I am never going toget the game. For example, an xbox exclusive (I do not have an xbox) or if Ialready played the game and want to see others suffer, lmao. Or if I like thestreamer.

16. The best year in gaming you’ve experienced?… I don’t remember. I’m going to say 2011.

18. Worst game you’ve played?There are probably worse games, but I’ll go withthe most recent one I’ve played, which was Bound by Flame. It was kind of thisunfortunate mix of—attempt at—Dark Souls, Dragon Age, and other medieval games.Some parts of the gameplay were unnecessarily hard for kicks, with no way toovercome the boss aside from chipping away at the health by throwing a rock atit, while your single dead companion lay sprawled in the middle of the fieldten seconds into the fight. And of the one and a half romance options pergender you were allowed, none of them were very enticing. Spoiler** I overcamethe end fight by purchasing 10,000 potions to fight the dragon. I made itthrough just fine, only after using 600 potions. Strategy was little help, butheyo I made it through. 20. Favorite publisher and/or developer?…Sony? I don’t know… I’m terrible at thesequestions.

22. If you could turn one game into movie, whichwould it be?You know I don’t know, since any game thatturns into a movie makes me want to cry bitter tears of hate. I’m looking atresident evil specifically. But if I could turn Bioshock into a really goodmovie with the proper actors/actresses, storyline, extras, atmosphere, then …yeah.

24. Ever cried because of a video game? Whichone(s)?…Too many. Nothing gets me more invested andemotional than a videogame. I guess the only one that has made me actually cryvisible tears is Journey. The ending overwhelmed me in an inexplicable way.

26. How often do you play online? Co-op?Relatively often now, especially withOverwatch, and the fact that a lot of my friends have Overwatch as well. So,like, every other day, if not daily. Otherwise, I love co-oping with a friend mostlybecause the AI that they give to work with you tends to … suck butts. Lookingat Resident Evil… again.

28. Who got YOU into gaming?My babysitter. Haahaa. I used to hang out ather house all the time and I’d watch her play all sorts of games. She’s alsothe one who gifted me my purple game boy color :’D30. On average, how long does it take you in thecharacter creation screen?Could be up to an hour. But at least 30minutes. It depends on if I know what I want.

32. Do you cosplay?I do! But I’ve actually only cosplayed animethings. Most of the video game stuff I would like to cosplay is too hard and/orI wouldn’t do it justice. Also I’ve been parts of group cosplays generally, sowe gotta find a good match.

34. Favorite male npc?For some unknown reason, the only personpopping into my head right now is erandur, the dark elf companion, from skyrim.Like… he’s not my favorite npc, but…my mind is drawing a complete blank. And isjust repeating that name over and over in my head. Oh boy

36. Best antagonist?Albert Wesker. …Spoiler??** Look… if you gottathrow him in a volcano to get rid of him after 200 tries of “just survive longenough” fights, he’s pretty good to me. Please let him die.  

38. Have you tried a game, hated it, then triedagain, and loved it?N….no? There are some games where I getfrustrated, then invite a friend to play, who is extremely over-leveled, andthen they help me… live. Does that count?40. Favorite voice actor?Okay, I love Troy Baker. How can one person beso gosh darn versatile?? For anyone who doesn’t know (I doubt that) He voicesJoel from TLOU, Booker from Bioshock, Sam Drake from Uncharted, to name theones that pop into my head. And he does like a million other voices, and sings,and is just very excellent overall. 

42. A game you will never forget (in a bad ORgood way)?Resident Evil 5 in the respect that I justplayed it during a very happy time in my life with one of my friends. And itwas also when I learned that I really love co-op, as well it was a supertreasured bonding time with that friend. We legit screamed so obnoxiouslythroughout the whole thing, apologized profusely, yelled for help. Like thatgame brought out our full range of emotion while playing.

44. Do graphics matter?Not necessarily. They add a nice kick, butthere are quite a few games I can think of where the gameplay and story aremore prominent. Storyline is generally always the main thing I look for first.Storyline and characters. 46. Always, sometimes, or never use subtitles?ALWAYS. Even for NPCs. Like the setting thatsays “ALL SUBTITLES” one of the reasons is because it alerts me to enemiessometimes too as they whisper in the distance. Which is the closest thing to awarning from jump scares that I’m going to get.

48. A game you’ve always wanted to play but havenever gotten to it?Um. I’ve actually been pretty aggressive ingetting my grubby hands on the games that I want. EXCEPT. Nearly everythingthat came out after Kingdom Hearts: Chain of memories?? Like 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 5 ½,365/3 days  idk there were too many?? AndI basically had almost every console except the PSP so I just kind of gave up??

50. How many games do you own?…uh… too many?? At least 200 if you total allof them from the dawn of my first game boy color.52. A game you will always stand behind, andsupport no matter what?..Fable. OKAY So, even though the game, alongwith the game company crashed and burned, I really loved that first game??Along with The Lost Chapters. I essentially based the experiences I had withFable 2, 3, Journey on how good the first game was. If I were to make someoneplay it now, they would probably think it’s pretty dumb, but I thought it was acleverly made game…54. A sequel you really want?… lmao Fable. AND/OR The Wolf Among us, becausethat’s been sitting there for far too long.56. Do you tell people irl that you play videogames?Yeah. If it comes up in the conversation. Or if…they have merchandise that I want.

58. Ever have someone walk in on a sex scenebetween you and you LI?N…o…60. The game you are best at?I know Bioshock inside and out… I don’t knowwhy I’ve played it so much, it’s a very linear game, but wuh. Also weirdly, I’mvery good at Sonic Adventure 2 Battle. And the only reason I’m obnoxiously goodat that game is because of the Chaos. I love those ridiculous little things andwould do anything to make sure they’re happy and healthy. And in order to dothat I had to play each stage multiple times to get the right power-ups andanimals to feed the Chaos…. There was a whole garden. And god.

62. Would you want to work with video games whenyou are older?I feel like if I start working with it I’llstart disliking it very much, unless I literally work as a tester… that getspaid a decent amount. Like seriously, walk in, sit down, play for… hours uponhours. Otherwise, I do not have the creativity or skill. lmao.

64. Describe your favorite video game using onlythree words?Underwater death city.

66. Game with the yummiest looking food?Final Fantasy XV. Okay, so I haven’t finishedthe game. I’m really not even that far into it, like… at all. I just saw thefood and got hungry. It’s so realistic and pretty.  

68. An older game that you’ve just recentlygotten into?I guess… Fallout New Vegas was pretty old, butthen my friend bought it for me on sale, and I tried it out and it was supergood??? And now I’m really into the Fallout series.

70. Do you play any mobile games?I.. play Fire Emblem Heroes, and a variety ofother mobile games like.. Notice me Senpai, Zen Koi, Mystic Messenger, uhhh…whatever is recommended sometimes. .

72. Have any guilty pleasure games?Not really. I’m pretty prideful in every game Iplay, including my otome games.74. Which game has the best lore?…Once…. Again, BIOSHOCK. Idk there are just somany little things in the city that you can find that point to the history ofthe residents, and what happened to them. There are those audio messages and littlesecrets that everybody has in the city, leading to its fall. I just love it somuch. Skyrim is a close second, to be fair. It’s more immersive and I canroleplay more on there.

[gossipnetwork-blog]

Eminem's 'Revival': Track-by-Track Guide to New Album

New Post has been published on http://gossip.network/eminems-revival-track-by-track-guide-to-new-album/

Eminem's 'Revival': Track-by-Track Guide to New Album

Craig McDean

Eminem, the best-selling rapper of all time, returned at midnight with Revival, his first album in four years. The new LP sprawls across 19 tracks, touching on rock, gospel, pop and, of course, hard-bitten hip-hop. Eminem veers from sassy to self-deprecating, dependent to dismissive, murderous to politically conscious, uncontrollably lusty to borderline repentant, sometimes all within the same song. He raps over skeletal, golden-age beats courtesy of Rick Rubin and stirring piano ballads from longtime collaborator Alex da Kid; he teams up with locally known artists like Phresher as well as global stars like Beyoncé, Pink and Alicia Keys. Across it all, Eminem remains intent on convincing listeners that he’s still at the top of his game: “Will I ever fall off/That day’ll never come.” Here’s a guide to understanding the album’s producers, songwriters, guests and key themes.

1. “Walk On Water” feat. Beyoncé Back in 2000, Eminem opened The Marshall Mathers LP with a sarcastic public service announcement: “Slim Shady does not give a fuck what you think!” It got nastier (and funnier) from there. But that was the old Marshall, and it turns out the new Marshall really does give a fuck what you think. Revival starts in a way that would have been unimaginable in the old days, with solemn piano chords, an honest-to-god gospel chorus from Beyoncé, and Eminem earnestly asking, “Why are expectations so high? Is it the bar I set?”

There’s no punchline. This is a serious, vulnerable track about the doubts that nag at a rap god late at night. He’s heard your criticisms of his latter-day work, and they hit home. In the second verse, he makes the stakes he’s chosen for Revival explicit, referencing the critical and commercial high-water mark of the original MMLP (“It’s the curse of the standard/That the first of the Mathers discs set”) and describing his writing process in relatable terms: “It always feels like I’m hitting the mark /Til I go sit in the car, listen and pick it apart/Like, this shit is garbage!”

Beyoncé comes through with humility and grace, and storied producer Rick Rubin (along with co-producer Skylar Grey) provides a sound that’s closer to the albums he made with Johnny Cash than the tougher-than-leather Run-DMC/Beasties beat he served up for “Berzerk” on Em’s last album. Mathers plays along, bringing a thoughtful tone and flow to match.

Then he snaps out of it in the track’s final seconds: “Me and you are not alike/Bitch, I wrote ‘Stan’!”

2. “Believe” Trappish snares and a minimal piano line courtesy of frequent foil Alex da Kid (“Love The Way You Lie,” Imagine Dragons’ “Radioactive”) give Revival‘s second track a more contemporary feel – this is the sound of a rapper in his mid-40s doing his best to keep up with the kids. He’s pretty comfortable in this new setting, even sneaking a not-groanworthy use of the word “lit” into his first verse. A bit later, he gets off some great internal-rhyme runs in a thuggish-ruggish Midwestern cadence: “But I still remember the days of/Minimum wage for/General labor/Welfare recipient as a minor/Look how government assistance has made you!” That verse builds up to one of his more memorable recent solo choruses, with shades of “The Way I Am” and “Cleaning Out My Closet.” The lingering questions that he emphasized on “Walk on Water” are still in the picture here (“Man, in my younger days, that dream was so much fun to chase….But how do you keep up the pace and the hunger pangs once you’ve won the race?”). But he’s off and running now.

3. “Chloraseptic” feat. Phresher Fans flipped out when they saw that the only guest MC featured on Revival‘s tracklist was Brooklyn’s own Phresher, best known for his street hit “Wait a Minute,” which blew up about a year ago and subsequently got remixed by everyone from Remy Ma to Riff Raff to 50 Cent to Royce da 5’9″. The latter connection likely explains how Eminem ended up calling in a hook from the NYC up-and-comer. “The record is about just spitting, man…Just cutthroat, at your throat music,” Phresher told Complex, adding, “It’s raw as fuck.”

True enough, Eminem gives a revved-up performance, dubbing himself the “Simon Cowell of rhyming foul,” memorably declaring “I’m Schoolly D, you’re Spoonie Gee” and providing a detailed description of how he plans to murder you using the wire from a notebook full of your weak-ass rhymes. The rumbling beat from his old friend Denaun Porter (a.k.a. Kon Artis from D-12) brings out his energetic, mischievous side.

4. “Untouchable” If any alt-right Eminem fans out there were hoping to forget about his Trump dis at the BET Hip Hop Awards, here he comes with even more vitriol. This six-minute song is Em’s most ambitious political statement ever, expanding and deepening the critique of American racism that he started outlining 15 years ago on “White America.” He spends the first half of “Untouchable” rapping from the perspective of a racist white cop, laying out exactly how he profiles and terrorizes black communities. The guitar-sampling beat from longtime cohorts Mr. Porter, Emile and Mark Batson makes this part of the song feel something like verse two of Jay-Z’s “99 Problems” with the viewpoint shifted to the state trooper’s side.

Then the beat switches to a moody piano loop, and Eminem raps from the perspective of a black American man in 2017. He gets fired up denouncing police brutality, segregation, hiring discrimination, flag-waving hypocrisy and other forms of systemic racism: “Fuck your Republican views/Pull ourselves up by the bootstraps, where the fuck are the boots?” It’s a lot to take in, and early reactions to “Untouchable” from within the rap world have been divided.

5. “River” feat. Ed Sheeran According to Ed Sheeran, much of “River” was recorded in March 2016 while he vacationed at actor Russell Crowe’s farm in Australia. “I used the studio at Russell’s house,” Sheeran told Billboard. “Played the drums on it, and then played the guitar, and then recorded the thing and wrote the chorus and did the piano on it, and then sent it off and then didn’t hear anything back.” Produced by Emile Haynie, the final version of “River” opens with Sheeran’s lament about being “a liar and a cheat,” then flows into Eminem’s lyrics about one-night stands, and the guilt and recriminations that follow. “Now that I got you I don’t want you/Took advantage and my thirst to pursue/Why do I do this dirt that I do?” he asks.

6. “Remind Me” (Intro) 7. “Remind Me” The cheeky hard rock of “Remind Me” is reminiscent of his 2013 single “Berzerk”: Both rely heavily on a sample of Joan Jett & the Blackhearts’ “I Love Rock & Roll.” And just like that Billboard top 3 hit, he uses “Remind Me” to unleash his horndog id, crowing about a big-booty woman with silicone breasts as big as the late Anna Nicole Smith’s. “Excuse me ma, I’m just too raw,” he raps. Still, he avoids referring to his conquest in derogatory terms, and the track seems more fun-loving than an expression of Slim Shady’s misogynist impulses. In a conversation with Elton John for Interview magazine, he talked about his relationship with the track’s producer, Rick Rubin. “[Rubin and I] were talking about a song or something, and he said, ‘I don’t really consider myself smart enough to know what everybody’s going to think, so I just do what feels right for me,'” Eminem remembered.

8. Revival (Interlude) 9. “Like Home” feat. Alicia Keys With a soaring chorus from Alicia Keys and production from Alex da Kid, “Like Home” continues the anti-Trump war that Eminem kicked off on last year’s single “Campaign Speech,” and reignited during the BET Hip-Hop Awards. “This chump barely even sleeps/All he does is watch Fox News like a parrot and repeats/While he looks like a canary with a beak/Why you think he banned transgenders from the military with a tweet?” he raps. (Critics of Eminem’s past lyrics about LGBTQ people may be surprised at his implicit support for transgender soldiers.) 

Eminem also takes some blame for Trump’s past appearance in “Shady Convention,” a mock political video ad that promoted his then-new Shade45 satellite channel. “Take it back to the Shady national convention/Wish I had spit on it before I went to shake his hand at the event/Or maybe had the wherewithal/To know that he was going to try to tear apart/Our sacred land we cherish and stand for.” When he spoke to Elton John for Interview, he elaborated on his antipathy towards Trump. “As long as he’s got his base, he does not give a fuck about anybody else in America. But guess what? There’s more of us than there are of them. I still feel like America is the greatest country to live in. This is my opinion. But we have issues that we need to work on and we need to do better.”

10. “Bad Husband” feat. X Ambassadors Eminem has often picked at the volatility of male-female relationships in uncomfortably scabrous terms, most memorably on his 2010 hit “Love the Way You Lie.” But the Alex da Kid-produced “Bad Husband” has a disturbing ring of truth, if only because it mentions Hailie Jade Mathers, Eminem’s daughter with his ex-wife Kim Scott. “We carry on with our public spats,” he raps, perhaps referencing to the avalanche of tabloid press that chronicled Eminem and Scott’s tumultuous relationship in the late Nineties and early Aughts. “You hit me once, and that I would use/To continue the pattern of abuse/Why did I punch back?/Girl, your dad is a scumbag,” he raps as he alternates between addressing Hailie and Kim. Then he continues a pattern of repentance for using his family as artistic fodder that started with 2013’s “Headlights,” his memorable apology to his mother. “But I’m sorry Kim/More than you can ever comprehend/Leaving you was fucking harder than/Sawing off a fucking body limb.” A chorus and backing arrangement from X Ambassadors, the “Renegades” rock band that first worked with Em on “Wicked Ways,” conjures a melancholy sound of redemption.

11. “Tragic Endings” feat. Skylar Grey Eminem remains in his comfort zone – exploring a vicious codependent romance – on the arena-rap ballad “Tragic Endings.” “There’s just something ’bout her/ That makes me not able to function without her,” Eminem admits. But don’t think this is happily-ever-after: “The idea of seeing me happy destroys her in itself,” he raps. “To see me falling to pieces brings her joy.”

The claustrophobic hook of “Tragic Endings” is provided by Grey, a frequent Eminem collaborator. She helped write the rapper’s Number One smash “Love the Way You Lie” along with “Tragic Endings” producer Alex da Kid; she also penned Revival blockbuster Beyoncé collaboration “Walk on Water.” She works in lockstep with Eminem on “Tragic Endings” to drive home the suffocating nature of this relationship. “I’m dying to breathe and all you do is strangle me,” she sings. “What a relief.”

12. “Framed” For “Framed,” Eminem reaches back to early tracks like “’97 Bonnie & Clyde” in both sound – relying on the simplest of beats, just two guitar licks and an unchanging drum loop – and violent content: The rapper offers advice here on how to get away with homicide. “When murdering females better pay attention to these details or you could be derailed,” he warns. “Better wear at least three layers of clothing or be in jail.”

Back in “’97 Bonnie & Clyde,” Eminem was driving through the night with his longtime antagonist – and ex-wife – Kim dead in the back, but this time he envisions tangling with Eighties supermodel Christie Brinkley and the President’s daughter: “Dog, how the fuck is Ivanka Trump in the trunk of my car?” “Framed” wraps up with a half-hearted declaration of innocence. “There’s a missing person, so what? He’s got nothing to do with me/ I’m almost certain I was framed.”

13. “Nowhere Fast” feat. Kehlani Eminem faces off with a frantic string section, agitated hi-hats and the apocalypse on “Nowhere Fast,” defying terrorist attacks at one moment and his rap competition the next: “For MCs it’s a funeral when I’m devising this rhyme/ Cause I’m awake and you’re mourning, that’s why I rise and I shine.” Eminem may be 45 years old, but he has little interest in reflecting on his own mortality. “To the pine box: Bitch, fuck you,” he raps. “I’m better than I ever was.”

Kehlani joins Eminem to provide the atmospheric melodic accompaniment that he appears to favor everywhere on Revival. She sings sentimental lines about living fast and dying young: “Never looking back and we’re never getting old/ ‘Cause the skies are black but our hearts made of gold.” “Honored to be on this album, and in such amazing company,” she wrote on Instagram when Eminem shared the Revival track list earlier this month. “I can’t wait for the world to hear this.”

14. “Heat” After slamming President Trump throughout Revival, Eminem finds surprising common ground with him in “Heat,” one of the album’s lustiest songs. “Grab you by the [meow sound effect], hope it’s not a problem, in fact,” he raps. “About the only fact I agree on with Donald is that.” Eminem is single-mindedly priapic here, so even when he takes a moment to shout out this track’s producer, Rick Rubin, he twists the tribute into a pick-up line: “Come on, little mama, you’re hot enough to melt Rick’s beat.”

Rubin provides the sort of skeletal rap-rock accompaniment he served Eminem four years ago on The Marshall Mathers LP 2 track “Berserk” – distorted guitar and scratching vinyl sputter high in the mix. The primary riff is pulled from the Boogie Nights soundtrack’s “Intro (Feel the Heat),” a song performed in the film by John C. Reilly and Mark Wahlberg. “Heat” also ends with a brief snippet of Boogie Nights dialog from Wahlberg’s character that fits easily next to Eminem’s verses: “It’s my big dick, so everybody get ready right fucking now.”

15. “Offended” “Offended” features Revival‘s most technically impressive passage, a blistering display of speed near the end of the song– countless syllables crammed into 12 or 13 seconds – that aims for the record books. The rest of the track rises from the same fertile ground as “Just Don’t Give a Fuck” and “Bad Influence,” old songs in which Eminem turns listeners’ hatred of him into a badge of honor – or maybe a suit of armor.

As always, antipathy spurs him to cross even more lines and break even more taboos; here he describes himself with allusions to men accused of sexual assault (Bill Cosby, R. Kelly) and child murder (Justin Ross Harris). And yet again, Eminem guns for Trump, still annoyed that the President did not reply to his BET freestyle. He also goes after Ivanka and Melania. “Shit’s on, bruh,” Eminem declares. “… Ivanka, stiff arm her/While I’m hittin’ on Melania/And this song’s for all ya.”

The MC alternates between hard, low rapping and nursery-rhyme sing-song on “Offended,” borrowing his hook from a bleak source – “The Knife Game Song.” The taut, jumpy, brassy “Offended” instrumental was crafted by Illa da Producer, who also helmed Lil Pump’s “Pinky Ring” and French Montana’s “Have Mercy.” Eminem takes a moment to compliment the beat-maker’s work, noting that, “These drums and hard snares bring out the worst in me.” “I’m so narcissistic, when I fart, I sniff it,” he adds a few lines later. “Do a fake dab to smell my armpits with it.”

16. “Need Me” feat. Pink “Need Me” is Eminem’s second collaboration with Pink. But in contrast to the playful “Revenge,” off of her October album Beautiful Trauma, “Need Me” is a bombastic power ballad dominated by Alex da Kid’s cavernous percussion. Pink sings two verses and choruses before Eminem comes in for the song’s one lengthy, intense rap verse. But something happens in the first half of “Need Me” that’s rarely been heard in Eminem’s many collaborations with female singers: he harmonizes with Pink, his voice gradually appearing during her second verse. Darting in and out of the track’s lurching waltz rhythm, Marshall vents about a dysfunctional relationship: “Starting to think we were made for each other/ But one of us in this relationship is raising the other/ You remind me of my mother.”

17. “In Your Head” “In Your Head” opens with Dolores O’Riordan’s voice beamed in from 1994 as a sample of the Cranberries hit “Zombie,” and runs underneath the entirety of the track. The song is produced by Scram Jones, a New York-based MC/producer who’s been chopping samples for Jadakiss, Ghostface Killah, and others since the early 2000s, but has never worked with Eminem before.

Em spends most of “In Your Head” castigating himself over career missteps: “Fuck it, I’ve done enough in this rap shit, Recovery brought me nothing but back to where I was/ And perhaps this could’ve been my victory lap if I wasn’t on the verge of Relapse.”

18. “Castle” feat. Skylar Grey “I built this castle, now we are trapped on the throne,” Skylar Grey sings at the opening of “Castle.” Each verse of the song is a letter, complete with pencil and paper sound effects echoing “Stan.” But this time, the letters are from Marshall Mathers to his daughter Hailie; the first letter is a few weeks before her 1995 birth, the second is a year later, and the third is on her 12th birthday. The third verse ends with Eminem at a low point in 2007, overdosing on methadone and nearly dying. “Your dad’s at the end of his rope/I’m sliding down a slippery slope/Anyway, sweetie, I better go, I’m getting sleepy…Love, Dad, shit, I don’t know.”

19. “Arose” “Arose” opens with a loop of a young LeAnn Rimes’s 1997 recording of “The Rose,” best known as the title song from Bette Midler’s 1979 album and film of the same name. Picking up where the narrative of “Castle,” ended, Eminem is recounting his 2007 overdose, speaking to his family and to his longtime D12 groupmate Proof, whose 2006 death “tore me in two.” Four minutes into “Arose,” Eminem declares “To rewrite a mistake, I’m rewinding the tape” and the song abruptly stops, and the third verse of “Castle” begins again. But this time it ends differently, “I’m pledging to throw this methadone in the toilet.” The album concludes with a new day dawning, and the sound of a toilet flushing. 

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