#also well i had my heart set on naming this guy after a medieval composer and i WOULD have done guido d/arezzo if araki didnt use that

[cinnabarts]

entering monk mode

[nezzfiction]

ENMY Chapter 79 - Cloak and Dagger (Part Two)

Chapter Synopsis: As Yang and Emerald discover the truth behind Remnant, the shadow of Salem��s Grimm army looms close to Vacuo. The Kingdom that has remained passive, now enters the stage of the Second Great War.

Series Synopsis: Team RWBY is disbanded, and Yang must find herself new allies. For her, that might very well be yesterday’s enemies. Joining up with the likes of Emerald, Mercury, and Neo, the four will comprise Team Enemy(ENMY).

Links to read the series: Ao3 or FF.net

Or hit the jump below

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Cloak and Dagger (Part Two)

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“Why?”

That’s what they asked me.

It’s what I asked, too.

But when I posed myself that question, I got an answer I didn’t expect.

It’s amazing how easily it came.

I could only think:

“How could it have been anyone else?”

My only regret is that we didn’t realize our feelings sooner.

.

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Yang closed Summer’s diary with a breathless sigh.

She just finished reading the recount of how her two mothers came to be. They were teammates, best friends… then after a time, enemies.

After Raven changed sides, there was no end to the reasons why Summer should have severed ties with her.

Even so…

“How could it have been anyone else?”

Yang echoed the words Summer spoke so long ago.

It touched on something, a crack in her heart that had been widening for months. Her mother’s words set something free. Her mind was made. Her doubts dispelled and her fate was decided. Yang wanted to return to Vacuo as soon as possible.

“We have to get back to Vacuo as soon as possible!” Emerald yelled, as she and Professor Oobleck ran into the private reading room.

“What’s up?” Yang asked.

“Mercury just sent me an encrypted text. Salem’s made her move on Vacuo.”

“Crap!”

The three made their way to the upper floors of the Tower. They ran past several piles of books, knocking them over without a second thought. It was imperative they find Papyrus.

“How bad is it?” Yang asked.

“Don’t know. Merc didn’t exactly send me pics. But apparently, it’s a gigantic army of Grimm.”

“Like, Battle of Dracul?”

“Probably bigger, MUCH bigger.”

“And Vacuo still has their Cuckoo problem.”

“Yup! Which is why, we need to haul our ass back, like, yesterday!”

“But that’ll take days!!!”

“You think I don’t know that?!”

They stopped at the top floor and spotted the record keeper furiously writing at a study table. Oobleck picked up the latest page freshly written and read it aloud.

“’Ferocious beasts bore hungry maws at what they thought was dinner! But lo’! They were caught unawares by what they thought was easy prey, was in fact an esteemed Huntsman!’”

“Is that… Professor Port?” Yang pointed curiously at the document.

“Yes, it appears Papyrus is recording the current events via Peter’s diary entries!”

“Oh! I get it! So, you guys arranged this beforehand so you could keep tabs on current events!”

“No, not at all. Peter just likes to write in his diary constantly.”

“In the middle of battle?!”

“Yes. He’s very good at keeping accounts of his exploits. I often wish I had his ability to put pen to paper, irregardless of the harrowing situation!”

“Uh…huh.”

The three started pouring over the notes Papyrus previously wrote. In it, they found bits and details between Professor Port’s grandeur embellishments, that painted a picture of the situation.

After Temujin threw the first “gauntlet”, the forces of Grimm and Vacuo clashed. Although the Kingdom’s military had never faced such a sizable host of monsters, the battle seemed to be go in their favor. Vacuo’s warriors were well-versed in dealing with the varied species of Grimm. They also demonstrated an organization that rivaled the most disciplined armies.

“Hm…” Emerald glared at the most recently recorded books. “The librarian doesn’t just record Vacuo’s side either. Take a peek,” she shoved a blank covered tome in Yang’s hands. “Inna and Bean are here, too.”

Yang skimmed through the information like a starved bibliophile.

“Bean’s commanding the armies… He wants to hunt me down… Adam’s here too… Someone named Jupiter Black? Isn’t that—”

“Mercury’s cousin and president of the douchebag assassin society.”

“This is… This is Blake’s diary.”

“Yup!” Emerald shouted, while picking up another book. “With any luck, we can figure out what the other side is planning. Meanwhile, the Professor can keep a pulse on how the battle is going.”

“But we need to get back there now!”

��One problem at a time, Yang! You said it yourself, it’ll take days to get back! We need to play the smart game here. If we find something crucial, our messages might do more help than us actually being there.”

Yang heard the reason in Emerald’s argument and agreed. But somewhere deep down, all she could worry about was Neo. She knew her partner could handle herself, but it wasn’t enough to abate her fears. The fact that they were separated by such a distance, in such a dangerous time, drove her mind to conjure things she never wanted to see.

Yang watched Emerald shuffle through another mound of papers in frustration. Her leader wasn’t as composed as her words let on. No doubt, Emerald was just as concerned about Mercury.

“As soon as we find what Salem’s planning, we’re out of here!” Emerald shouted without looking at her.

“Yeah. Yeah, alright!”

Yang dove back into the haystack of information with gusto.

Just be alright, Neo.

Please, be alright.

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X  X X  X  X

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Neo threw her parasol into a row of Grimm, corkscrewing them all through the chest cavity. With a wave of her hand, her weapon swooped into a u-turn and flew safely back to her hands. She opened the umbrella to let out a small spray of black blood, causing her to lick her lips with a depraved look.

She gave a small inward thank you to Ruby, who made a few upgrades to her weapon.

Mercury soared above her with a number of Vacuo’s airborne fighters trailing behind. After activating his Semblance, he kicked up a sandstorm in the middle of Salem’s army. Rough debris and jagged rock wore away at the more durable species of Grimm, while lighter ones were caught up in the tornado.

Throughout the battlefield, soldiers exercised their specialized roles. If they fulfilled a long-distance position, they fought safely from the backlines. The more hands-on of the fighters took to the vanguard to face the brunt of their opposition. Some fought together, some separate. And then, there were berserkers, who traversed wildly into the chaos of being surrounded by enemies.

Chain Nai’s blue ringed skin glowed with a dark sea hue, as he clamped a Jester’s hyena mouth between his elbow and knee. The force caused the front half of the skull to cave, but it was the warrior’s poisonous Semblance that put the creature to death.

Not too far away, a shining warrior faced a unit of Moredread knights five v. one. The monsters boasted a heavily reinforced armor composed of dense bone. Their medieval style appearance added with the giant buster blade they hefted overhead, made for daunting figures. Yet the lone fighter stood, unfazed by the challenge.

When their swords fell like a waterfall of guillotines, the man bat them away like they were sheets of cardboard. The last one, he caught in a single, gold and black gloved hand.

“Compared to Qrow and Athos, you might as well be using toy swords,” Taiyang taunted.

With a flick of his wrist, the Moredread he caught the sword of, was twisted into the air. With his free hand, he loosed a soft palm strike on the Grimm’s bony helm. The Aura infused into the technique transposed through the armor and exploded within the knight’s vulnerable brain matter. Before the corpse fell and the other four Moredread could react, Taiyang was on them.

His fingers became pointed to align with his forearm. An upward thrust sent a spear-like hand under one of the Grimm’s armpits, where the armor was weakest. The ligaments connecting the Moredread’s limb tore like tissue paper.

With Taiyang’s hands still formed in a straight edge, he sent a chopping fist through the neck of two others.

The sword knight Grimm were classified as A-Class Grimm individually. But against a fighter of their complete counter and high caliber, five had fallen within mere moments.

Bean saw through the eyes of the dying Grimm and decided to take a different approach. His army was never meant to fight on even ground. They were meant to abuse their numbers andabuse their numbers he did.

The young boy directed a pack of fast moving Jesters Taiyang’s way and a Deathstalker towards his back. He didn’t expect them to win, but sap away at the martial artist’s stamina.

Just when they reached combat distance, a rain of icy shards fell on the area, including on the man himself. Though, the attack only seemed to shatter against Taiyang’s now tattooed skin.

“Huh. Will Tai take no offense to that?” Minerva asked from a fair distance.

“He’s used to it,” Glynda answered, before casting another icy hailstorm over a different area. “Is it me, or is this battle faring a little too easily?”

“I am of the same mind. Salem has yet to play any of her proverbial trump cards.”

“Our casualties are also low, not that I’m complaining.” Glynda pushed up her glasses before manipulating a small herd of stampeding Goliaths and diverting their charge into its allies. “The longer this battle goes on, the more disadvantageous our position.”

“Agreed. What do you suggest?”

“I’ve been trying to discern where the commander of this army is located.”

Another group of Grimm rushed their position, but Glynda levitated them into the air, while Minerva waved her wand to cause an explosion, incinerating them into pieces.

“Going by the way the Grimm are directed, I can only assume whoever is in control, is commanding them from there!” Glynda pointed her riding crop.

Minerva paid attention to the direction and saw a number of Grimm waiting on standby. Some would now and then, breakaway for a maneuver, but were swiftly replaced. The behavior was almost unnoticeable in all the chaos.

“So, we will have our troops advance there.”

“No,” Glynda shook her head. “There’s too much ground to cover and they’ll see us approaching almost immediately. If we can take them by surprise, we stand a chance at ending this battle prematurely.”

“…I’m not fond of the tone your suggestion is taking…”

“My Magic has a wide area of effect. If I can get close enough, I can trap them in the middle of it.”

“That is a fool’s gambit, Glynda.”

“Yes, but it’s better than waiting until Salem is ready to activate the Cuckoos.”

“…”

“There’s no other way!”

“Wait!”

Without another second, Glynda bolted for the enemy commander. She ducked and rolled between her enemies as well as her allies. Short-ranged Magic darts repelled any hostile Grimm out of her way. The Huntress made rapid progress towards her destination, but eventually, the beasts around her took notice.

They swarmed from the land and sky. Flying Preyer Mantis Grimm swept low with their scythe-like forelegs. Some of the Moredread lumbered in her direction in a joust. Glynda cast a shield around her, but it was quickly being whittled away.

If she could only make it a few more meters, she knew she could invoke a storm large enough to encompass the commander’s surroundings. She didn’t even need to live to maintain the spell to its end. Just starting the incantation would be enough. Just emptying her Aura for all its worth would be enough.

Then, she heard her barrier break and her riding crop shorted like a bad fuse. Glynda didn’t know where it broke from, there were too many possible angles. She could recast it, but by that time, it would be too late.

As a Jester pounced from behind her back, a pair of fingers thrust into its eye sockets. The hand gripped the top of its cranium and swung it into another pack of hyenas, knocking them over like bowling pins.

The man body-blocked Glynda from the attacks coming from outside her peripheries. His diamond hard skin deflected any harm and reflected the impact of others. Claws and fangs shattered on contact with the hard surface.

“This is a bit reckless for you, don’t you think?!” Taiyang shouted.

“I knew you would be there,” Glynda replied.

“Yeah, well, you know I can’t keep this up forever!”

“I know, Tai. But I also know you can keep it up for long enough.”

“It’s tough being reliable,” he said, with a smugness trying to hide the strain on his body.

“Hmhmhm!” Glynda chuckled in a slightly flirtatious way.

She refocused on the task at hand and saw the assumed Grimm commander and its escorts retreating back. But by now, it was already too late. She was well within the optimum range.

Glynda stabbed her riding crop to the sky like a divine sword. Clouds formed to her summons. A large violet insignia pulsated as the weather became shaded with a low rumble. Bright veins of light flashed within the swirling veil like outlining blood vessels.

Not another second passed before pillars of pure, electric destruction descended on Salem’s army. They traced the ground, gorging through the earth like a scroll saw. All the Grimm the light touched were instantly burned into a crisp.

Glynda was elated at the success, but stopped herself from getting too carried away. She dealt a heavy blow by conjuring the thunderstorm so deep into enemy lines, but that was not the main purpose of her stratagem. She watched the other Grimm outside the storm to see if her gamble paid off.

There was no change at first and it made her heart freeze up. But sure enough, the creatures gradually lost a sense of focus. A few breaths later and they began to scatter in retreat. Countless legs trampled and stumbled over each other, while Vacuo warriors pressed forward to slay any stragglers.

Glynda’s knees gave out, and she sat in a manner that betrayed her usual stringent demeanor.

“Wow…”

She turned a sly eye to the awestruck Taiyang.

“What are you so surprised about?” Glynda asked.

“I sometimes forget how scary you can be.”

“Really?”

“It doesn’t happen a lot, cause you know, you’re constantly reminding everyone. But times like this really drive it home.”

“I’m flattered.”

“No, you’re not.”

“You’re right. I’m not.”

“Issss this a bad time to say, I think I’m in lo—”

“Don’t finish that sentence, Tai.”

Glynda got to her feet and started making her way back to Minerva.

“Or else I’m liable to cast a second thunderstorm.”

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X  X X  X  X

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At the top floor of the Tower, Professor Oobleck set down the latest copy of Professor Port’s diary entry with a serious look.

“It appears, thanks to some brave heroics on Glynda’s part, the battle of Vacuo has reached premature conclusions.”

Emerald breathed a groaning sigh of relief before falling on top a nearby pile of books. She even thought about taking a nap, before noticing Oobleck’s tenseness unchanged.

“…? Okay, did I miss something, or did you just say the battle was over?”

“I did,” he replied.

“So, are you one of those people with resting angry face or…”

“Salem did not appear on the battlefield, nor did any of her named associates, save the individual Glynda forced to withdraw. The majority of the opposition Vacuo waged battle with were Grimm, and not the Nightmare Class we know to have joined her fold.”

“Probably conserving them. This was only the first fight.”

“A plausible theory.”

“Yeah! So, no time to waste, Prof. We need to blow this joint, not that I don’t love the smell of old books and ancient-lost-forgotten-knowledge.”

“You don’t have to be sarcastic.”

“Who’s being sarcastic? I’d spend my whole life here if I could. Think I might ask Masa to build me one of these. But we’re on a time crunch and we’ve got a long ass drive ahead of us. Hey, punchy! That means you, too!”

Emerald strode over to Yang sitting cross-legged, and kicked her boot. Though, the kick registered, the girl seemed completely immersed in what she was reading.

“What? Find something new in your mom’s diary?”

“No… Something’s off,” Yang shook her head. “Blake, or well, Salem, keeps talking about this ‘Cloak and Dagger’ plan. She has to know we’re at this Tower, right? I mean, she didn’t see us at the battle, she’s gotta have some idea.”

“Yeah, that tracks. What are you getting at?”

“She’s probably keeping watch of whatever everyone’s putting on message, but I’ve been piecing together the clues we do have. Some texts between Bean and Jupiter Black, along with some other assassins the guy brought along.”

“And?”

“They don’t line up. The timing for their plan sounded like it was set for the battle. They kept sending updates to each other. ‘Are you in position?’, ‘Yes’, that kind of thing.”

“It could be nothing…” Emerald felt paranoia creep in. “But when is it ever nothing with Salem?”

The girl paced the room a bit. Professor Oobleck also had his own doubts prior to Yang’s. Emerald started biting her thumbnail as she walked in circles. Now, she was sure something was wrong.

Salem’s associates.

The first battle lost.

A battle lost prematurely?

Did they throw the fight on purpose?

‘Cloak and Dagger’.

Emerald stopped in her step.

“Shit…”

“What? Did you figure it out?” Yang jumped.

“It’s in the stupid name! Salem’s such a pompous asshole! But, shit. We’re the only ones who know about it, and we’re too far away to make a difference!!!” Emerald shouted, while pulling out her scroll and typing as fast as she could.

“What is it, Em?!”

“Cloak and Dagger, Yang! If that whole fight was the cloak…”

Yang’s eyes widened with realization.

“Where’s the dagger?”

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X  X X  X  X

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As Temujin made her way back into the throne room with tired steps, she was helped by Mouse and Knives Rakis into her seat.

“Hoh hoh,” she planted herself with a shamble. “I really am getting old. Hardly lifted a finger and all these bones start creaking like thin leaf plywood.”

“I wouldn’t really call firing a couple airships and spears the size of most people ‘hardly lifting a finger’,” Mouse smirked.

“Oh, then you should have seen me back in the day. Riding my motorcycle into battle with hell’s fury at my beck and call. It would’ve made today’s display look shameful in comparison.”

“You’re still plenty strong.”

“Peh!” Temujin brushed it off. “No, most definitely not strong. But perhaps a tad shrewder in my age. I mostly get you youngsters to fight my battles for me now—to my regret.”

At that moment, Knives brought a freshly steaming cup of tea and set it on Temujin’s arm rest. The elder was about to drink it, before she pulled back.

“Knives, this is much too hot. Can’t you bring me a cooler cup?”

The two siblings gave a momentary pause.

“A gentle reminder for you to slow down and take your time,” Knives replied smoothly.

“Take any more time and I might right die of old age.”

“Enough of that. For now, Mouse and I will handle the logistics of the aftermath. We’ll report when everything is summarized.”

“We suffered very little casualties…”

“Yes, we did.”

“…That doesn’t sit well. Victory never comes so easily.”

She stared into the sibling’s pairs of silver eyes and saw they reflected something far-off in the distance. Not just the distance, but also maybe the future.

“Be vigilant, children. And Knives, thank you for attending to the other matter.”

“Of course. Please, take this time to enjoy your tea.”

With Knives’ parting words, the siblings left the room. Temujin was left to stare at her tea cup with her lower lip sticking out in a sort of pout.

“How am I supposed to enjoy it if I can’t drink it?”

The drink still had a thick haze of steam swirling from its surface…

—until the steam suddenly wavered.

…

“Ah… I really am getting old.” Temujin gripped her cane tighter. “To think I didn’t notice an assassin until they came this close.”

From an open window, Vulcan Black leapt in with his giant maul in hand. The head of his hammer torched with the flame and lava of a volcanic eruption. A heavy cloud of billowing smolder trailed from his downward swing.

“Cheeky brat.”

Temujin tapped her cane once against the stone floor and activated her “territory”. Vulcan was less than five paces away from letting his hammer fall, when his body faltered in midair. The assassin’s large stature then, crumbled as if under its own weight. He immediately started choking for air as his vision blurred. It was as if the atmosphere itself was trying to kill him, rejecting him like a bacterial infection.

Temujin stood from her seat and bade her teacup one last glance.

She thought about how the Rakis twins were acting, and how unusual Knives was about bringing her a drink much hotter than her usual brew. It was a subtle ploy to warn her.

They must have used their Semblance to foresee this.

No wonder she gave me an especially steaming cup.

How nice it is to have such thoughtful children…

Temujin made her slow way to Vulcan, who was nearing unconsciousness.

“Huh. Never met an assassin as bulky as you. In my prime days, I have no doubt we would have enjoyed a grand battle. Alas, I can’t really act that way anymore. My days of fighting head on, facing my foe blow for blow!” she pumped her fists, then went into a tired lament. “Long past, I’m afraid. I’ve had to resort to much shrewder methods with my seniority.”

Vulcan concentrated all his focus into moving his arm. It reached for his trusty maul that fell just a few millimeters from his outstretched fingers. He could almost touch it, when Temujin’s foot rested on his knuckles.

“Still haven’t given up on killing me! My respects!”

Vulcan was practically frothing at the mouth. Nothing but his rage and anguish kept him alive.

“It was sore luck you were contracted to kill me. I doubt there’s ever a worst target in all of Remnant for assassinations than myself.”

The giant assassin was now shaking uncontrollably.

“Well, may you have peaceful passage into the afterlife knowing you were defeated by the strongest Aura Skill practitioner to ever exist.”

At some point, Vulcan stopped resisting. Something of a quiet acceptance started to seep into his soul.

“My apologies, young pup. But this is death.”

Temujin honed her cane to a sharpness with Aura Skill, before plunging it swiftly through Vulcan’s back. The blow came quick and merciful and painless.

A heavy silence filled the chamber.

“The greatest shame for an assassin having failed their mission, is a corpse left behind. I shall endeavor to preserve your dignity as much as possible. An unmarked grave in the middle of the dunes, where no one will disturb you or uncover you. I suppose I owe you that much for my disgraceful methods.”

Temujin tore down one of the large tapestries hanging from the walls and threw it over Vulcan’s corpse.

“Now, that I think of it, I never asked your name.”

“I suppose that too is a preservation of dignity for an assassin.”

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X  X X  X  X

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 A far distance away, three figures laid on their bellies, peeking just barely over the crest of a tall sand dune.

“Curious…Very curious…” one of them muttered behind his intricately silver designed magnifying glass.

Bean and Inna, who watched the same scene play out turned to him with expectation.

“You’ve discovered the method Temujin employed against Vulcan?” Bean asked.

“You didn’t?” the man asked back.

“Reason unclear. Vulcan… collapsed without any point of contact or visible action. Your theory is required, Professor Moriarty.”

“Elementary, young man. But I must say, her Semblance is more flexible than I would have guessed. But these eyes see, this brain knows,” the man tapped his temple. “My Semblance learns all secrets.”

“Explanation required,” Bean repeated.

Moriarty gave a dark chuckle

“The old bat used her Warsmith’s Semblance to ‘weaponize’ her surroundings. Atmospheric pressure, temperature, I’d even include the gravity—all of it came under her control. She can make her environment literally a weapon. How fascinating.”

The young boy went into silent shock before speaking again.

“Conclusion drawn: close combat deemed impossible. Only viable avenue is long-range methods.”

“It’ll be tough to catch an Aura Skill user like Temujin from long-range,” Inna added her input. “But if anyone can do it, I can.”

The girl nodded her consent, but Moriarty gave them both a dismissive look. He stroked his thick broom mustache in thought.

“Not necessarily. There appears to be a weakness… For now, we should regroup and report to Salem. Our other cohorts should be carrying with Dagger Phase as we speak.”

“…Agreed,” Bean answered. “The second wave must be prepared.”

The three left their hiding spot and made for the mountain ridge they made headquarters.

On the way back, Bean glanced to the Haven Professor seemingly doing a multitude of calculations in his head.

“Probability of Dagger Team’s success?” the boy asked.

“85% by my observation” Moriarty replied easily.

“…And success of eliminating the main targets?”

“Hmmm. Four of the six objectives should be met, if we are to include Vulcan’s failed mission, though, that was within expectation.”

“And the other failed target?”

“Chain Nai will likely survive. He is an exceptionally formidable one. The rest of the targets will not.”

Bean went silent. He felt a pinch at the edge of his heart.

He didn’t know them well, or particularly liked them. But there were two individuals targeted for elimination in Dagger Phase he felt some bitterness towards.

Bean muttered quietly under his breath,

“Sorry, Yang.”

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X  X  X X  X

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In the aftermath of the battle, the Black Iron Road had all its furnaces fired immediately.

They didn’t know when the next battle would break out and many of those who took part in the fight, needed repairs to their arms as soon as possible. This also held true for those with prosthetics.

As a result, a long line of patrons in queue were lined up outside Brigid’s workshop. All her apprentices were working around the clock, dashing back and forth between stations. They ran out to exchange parts they were low on with other shops. And among the chaos, Brigid received her next patron with a certain grin.

“Mercury!” she bellowed. “Take care of this one here!”

Mercury quickly put the finishing touches to a Faunus’ ear in time to clear a seat.

A boy, a bit pockmarked in the face and some bloody scrapes, sat down on the stool in front of him. The young boy looked a little worse for wear, but he didn’t act like it. Instead, he beamed with a pride only the young and boastful could have.

“Can’t believe your old man let you join the aerial unit at the last minute,” Mercury shook his head, and began disassembling the damaged parts to Icarus’s wing.

“I only worked support mostly,” he replied shyly.

“Uh huh. And you get these scrapes only working support.”

“Well, when the main units were busy somewhere else, they needed us to hold the lines on another front. We couldn’t let any Grimm pass the wall, after all.”

“How many did you get?”

“About… five.”

“So, two. Pretty good for a kid with a new prosthetic.”

“I said, five!”

“I saw two.”

Icarus blushed with embarrassment.

“You were watching me?”

“Yeah. Only cause you were watching me.”

“That was cause you were so cool! How did you make a storm by yourself?! Can you teach me to do that?!”

“Maybe. Probably should check with your dad first. Where is the hard ass, anyway?”

“He’s right here, cousin.”

Mercury heard the poison in that voice and turned with an indescribable feeling of dread.

Not too far behind Icarus was Daed. But behind the father was a cloaked figure wearing a steel mask. The assassin had a knife tucked just barely visibly under his hostage’s throat.

“Jupiter…!” Mercury growled.

“So, glad you remembered me. I’d thought you’d all but forgotten your debt unpaid.”

“Let him go!”

“Tsk tsk tsk. Well, that would entirely defeat the purpose of a hostage now, wouldn’t it?”

“Goddamn it! Goddamn you, Jupiter!!!”

“Temper, dear cousin. If anyone should be angry, it should be me. You killed Apollo and Diana.”

“They got themselves killed!”

“And now, I have two less assassins under my management. You and your precious little friends are going to suffer for that. No hard feelings, mind you. Simply professional. I have a reputation to uphold.”

Mercury was about to leap at him, when Jupiter twisted the knife, causing some blood to drip from Dead. The threat made Mercury freeze instantly.

“See, that is the difference between you and I, little cousin. We are assassins, but you lack the actual principle required by our kind.”

Mercury was practically burning with anger, doing everything to check his impulse.

“Life is fleeting. It giveth and it is taketh.”

“You want me?! Then come and get me! Leave them out of this!!!”

“Attachment to it in any shape or form, even your own—”

“JUPITER!”

“—Is weakness.”

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X  X X  X  X

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In the dark alleyway, Adam’s slash caught nothing but air. His target had ducked at the last second and slipped close in the next.

Neo twisted her body with a quick torque and a snap to unleash a vicious uppercut kick that connected with Adam’s jaw. Once her opponent was floating midair, she readied to transition into the follow up. She didn’t want to allow him even a single chance to touch the ground again.

Just then, a violet light drew from the shadows and sliced at her midsection. Neo had no choice but to back off and teleport away.

During her retreat, something odd happened. Her Semblance didn’t grant her the smooth passage it usually did. Instead, her body was flung upside down through a nearby store window.

Neo didn’t understand. She scanned her surroundings, but it was nowhere near resembling the location she wanted to warp to. Something interfered with her Semblance. When she finally looked down at the wound she received, Neo knew the cause.

In addition to the blood draining out, a cursed black mist billowed from the opened flesh. Neo then, heard the snapping of glass as her two enemies caught up to her.

Blake and Adam approached like a pack of hunters cornering their prey.

Neo could only curse silently as she took up her fighting stance once more.

“Tonight, the monster finally dies,” Blake gloated. “And once you’re gone, Yang will be mine once again.”

“…!”

“Face it, Neo. It never would’ve worked out. Yang and I were made for each other. She knows it, I know it, everybody does. Hahaha!”

Neo growled mutely.

“Even you! You just don’t have the courage to admit it.”

Neo summoned an army of shimmering glass weapons, but they were blown away by the simultaneous wind slashes of Blake and Adam.

“You never had any hope. No salvation.”

I’ll kill you!

“See? How could Yang ever love such a monster, like you? A murderer and a psychopath? She’s a good girl. Too good for you.”

I’LL KILL YOU!

“I mean, I suppose there are a few fans of the deranged kind, who love to see the brave heroine corrupted by a lunatic’s cruel whims. But I was never fond of it myself.”

I’LL KILL YOU UNTIL THERE’S NOTHING LEFT!!!

“Very unhealthy, I think. No, I much prefer the romance between the kind-hearted, well-meaning, but tragic beauty and her brave, fiercely, sexy warrior. Now, that—”

SHUT UP!!!

“That is a ship I can get behind.”

[paladin-of-nerd-fandom65]

Diplomacy -Teen Titans And Fantastic Four Crossover

The breathtaking view outside of the window featuring all sorts of nimbus clouds and flocks of migrating birds paint peaceful scenery in the air over the lush green pastures thousands of feet below. Richard Grayson, the man on this flight and looking to the beauty seen right now, always admired being the sky as his mother’s “little Robin”. The height and skyscrapers of Gotham in his later childhood amplified the admiration; from running across the brick built rooftops to soaring through the air over the bright traffic alongside the man he delightfully calls even to this day his “second dad”. However, said “dad” always seem struck with cases of bad luck through the friends he makes. No not Justice League or the Titans International, those are the Batman’s friends. Not so much the case CEO Bruce Wayne the secret identity whom runs a mega corporation that spreads worldwide, slowly but surely offering new countries for expansion and deals that benefit all involved. Hence was Richard’s (or Dick for short) apprehension.

 The country the Wayne Enterprises plane flies over is the Balkan nation of Latveria, the currently prosperous home of the world’s greatest Romani population, a population under the benevolent rule of Dr Victor Von Doom. One might believe that name was a joke but bear in mind, Doom actually deserved such a name given from the various missions involving not only the JLA and Titans but the Fantastic Four and their little “relationship” with Doom and his various “take over the world” schemes (maybe that’s the reason Beast Boy last Halloween dressed as the Latverian ruler with the only saying he can mutter being “RICHAAAAARRRRRRRRDDDDDSSSSS!!!!”).  But one the hand there always the ‘benevolent’ part of his resume and rightfully so for Doom’s country enjoyed a GDP and income equality rate surpassing even the United States and Singapore’s economic stats combined. Very few companies ever invest within this small country for they bear next to no “economic advantage for Doom”; it appears though Wayne Enterprises seems to fit that bill.

 With the plane landed and stepping out with his two “bodyguards” Titan veterans Starfire and Raven, Dick follows the two guards who greeted him at Doomstadt International Airport and boards their limo en route to Castle Doom. Starfire notably seems a bit nervous, fiddling with her fingers as said limo begins its trip to the castle, passing by the city folk and robotic servants that act as crossing guards.

 Whispering to her fiancée, Star asks “Richard, are you positive of this idea?”

 Rachel Roth (aka Raven) couldn’t help but agree, also whispering in a more suppressed manner “Yeah, not only are we being treated as ‘welcome’ guests here, but in a scale of ‘what could possibly go wrong’ plans, even this seems a wee bit too much from you, Dick.”

 Dick, noticing the two guards hardening their stares towards him and his friends, says “It’ll be fine I promise we’ll get through this as if we’re only taking a trip to an actual doctor.”

“But Richard, the guards are staring at us much like a Porkin preparing to devour its prey. I cannot imagine what this Doom will think of us, let alone these guards” Starfire said with a dash of panic in whisper.

Taking her hand and gently running his fingers through it, Dick says, “Just relax, Kori. Let’s just try being on good behavior and they’ll let us go. You can do that honey, I know you can.”

 Koriand’r Grayson couldn’t help herself but to nod in silent agreement right before turning to the Latverian guards and flashing her best smile to them. Even the guards seem taken a bit back by such. Dick couldn’t help by sigh. This was not going to be fun.

Castle Doom, with its medieval walls, frightening towers and the numerous robots with gigantic laser canons only needed some good old fashioned “Swan Lake” played via church organ in the background to complete its intimidating effects. Dick and the others stare up towards the awe aspiring fortress with a combination of fear and wonder. Dick in particular, given the details he had received from Reed Richards before accepting the invitation from the owner of this castle, couldn’t help but lean more towards the wonder portion of his stares. Based on Reed, Victor Von doom was born in a Romani tribe within this country with a very loving mother who always taught him the ways of how people should be fascinated by not only what you do but who you are as a person. Victor had learned the basics of life, peacefulness and most importantly love from his mother Cynthia Von Doom whose said love permeated the young Doom down to his very soul. Dick couldn’t help but make that sort of connection since he too was born to a band of Romani travelers, and experience such love from his mother Mary Lloyd Grayson as well. Sadly, another connection the two was found between them for Dick also learned from Reed’s information of  what happened to his mother at eight years old, the same age he was when ‘the trapeze accident’. The comparison between however end right there for to summarize, at least he accepted his friends, Doom did not.

The giant creaking sounds of doors opening immediately snapped Dick and his friends out of their thoughts. A lone man in a nice suit not unlike Alfred’s steps out saying, “Welcome, visitors. Master Doom awaits your presence in his dining halls. Please come quickly.”  

From behind him, a young boy, probably no older than 8 years old, peeks out and asks, “Boris, are these the Americans Master wanted to see?”

Starfire, with her attention caught by the child in her usual loving way, responds, “Yes we are little one though *giggles* I do not yet posses ‘American’ citizenship. Please, what is your name?”

 Excitedly, the boy answers, “M-m-My name’s Kristoff, madam! I was recently taken in by my Master for” suddenly Kristoff’s mood dampened slightly “my mother has passed away, on the day Master Doom returned to reclaim his land from our last oppressor Zobra. Doom avenged her and defeated that…tyrant…but now I am under his protection.”

Starfire had tears preparing to fall from her eyes as walked to Kristoff Von Doom, holding him closely in comfort. Rachel now had a sad look on her face in which just screamed of the type rage you can only get when a ruler is worse than a guy literally named Doom. Dick, also having that same distraught look, again reflect to the sadness he felt with ‘the accident’, the fact he still feels to this day he could’ve prevented it by simply telling his parents to get the trapeze for that one stinking night. But, then again, he did recall from the files Reed Richards gave him stating deep down under all that metal armor and cold blooded attitude, Doom did a heart for his people and not only did that earlier flight over the prosperous country but now this young child under care show it, so maybe it won’t be that bad he guessed.

This pondering would have to wait however, as Boris gestures to the guests, “If you shall please follow me, I shall show you the way to Master Doom.” With the three Titans following him, Boris turns to the young lad with a kind smile, “Now Kristoff, Master Doom requires some privacy perhaps you should go to your room and finish that homework.”

With a nod, Kristoff heads upstairs while Dick Grayson and his bodyguards follow Boris past the exquisite hallways, filled with the portraits of conquerors, warriors and majestic women and men that have guided the pathway of this country for centuries. Of course being a Princess herself, Starfire had now the wonderment and fascination with these majestic halls and rooms in which reminded her dearly of the various hallways of Planet Tamaran’s capitol. Dick always loved it when she has that wonderment look; it was such a look that helped captivated his heart since that first day at Jump City.

Now standing outside two gigantic doors that led into the main dining hall, the three Titans now just prayed that Doom doesn’t change his mind about this business deal with Wayne Enterprises and order their arrests on the spot. Thankfully, though, Dick comes prepared for each of the three wear watches in which can transmit a small audio frequency, not enough for lowly humans to hear, but a certain Superman can hear, who currently hovers above Latveria at an altitude no air scanning equipment can detect, not even Latverian types. Finally, the doors crack and a stern, rough, terrifying but also quiet voice proclaims, “You may enter.”

With that, Richard John Grayson-Wayne Llodveski (his mother’s real last name before immigrating to the United States) sees at the very end of a large, beautifully designed dining table a single man, cloaked with a captivating green hood, the metal limbs of his armor ever so shiny in chrome and two brown pupil human eyes peering through a frightening metal mask, the man known simply as Doom.

Taking their seats with lavish and mouth watering cuisines laid before them, the Titans pretty much lose their appetites the minute the ruler of Latveria takes his own seat and begins to speak, “ Well now, young one. I have heard of your association with this Wayne Enterprises and their proposition. So now, Doom permits you to speak of this, quickly.”

Dick, gulping to keep his compose says, “Well, y-y-yeah. Wayne Enterprises is considering establishing factories in this country for there’s apparently a low but noticeable unemployment rate going on in the country sides and we believe these factories can make new jobs and maybe even set up a small bit of trade between us and Latveria.”

Doom, with his fingers tenting in his hands not unlike Gendo Ikari, ponders about this prospect before asking, “What could the Batman’s little company provide for Latveria’s people that Doom simply cannot do?”

Dick’s eyes widen as with the others “y-y-y-y-y-you know?!”

Underneath his mask, Doom smirks, “Why of course Mr. Grayson, after all Wayne Enterprises’ commitment to financially supplying various politicians worldwide that promise fighting the ‘superstitious, cowardly lot’ of criminal elements within your countries seems a close indicator does it not?”

Dick’s eyes began to look down to his watch to signal Clark for help and most likely would’ve had it not for Doom’s words afterword, “However, Doom is merciful in this case for Doom understands the need of protecting his home and his loved ones, in which would be all in jeopardy had his ‘activities’ been revealed. No, Doom only wishes for a challenge with a man worthy in his eyes, a demon from the pits of Hell itself as your precious “Batman’ elaborates himself after, rather than the pathetic weak minded simpleton Bruce Wayne showcases himself as.”

Dick now had a minor case of trembling going through his hand for this jerk badmouthing the man who raised him into what he is today. But after some considering about what a disaster any irrational action would do at this moment, he takes deep breath and calmly looks back at Doom with a straight face. After all, if Starfire and Raven were ordered to have good behavior, he better lead by example on that.

So dinner proceeds, with continuous conversation between Mr. Grayson and Doom with Starfire and Raven both bearing witness what will mostly likely becoming a historical event for ages to comes, all being done over a few courses of steamed lobster and beef platters.

As dinner begins to wine down and the deals are discussed and either accepted or put into consideration. Victor brings into mind a question Dick honestly should’ve considered, “you are of Romani descent are you not?’

“Yeah, I am actually.”

“Interesting, you don’t possess the common mannerisms and accent normally associated with our people.”

Rubbing his head on the back, Dick replies, “Well my mother did have some of that going on like for example she’ll always say we can speak the language in our home while outside we did other languages like English, Russian or others.

His hand on his chin in a pondering manner, Doom then asks, “Has your mother…taught you about others and their prejudices?”

Dick answers, “Yeah, my mother always told me that no matter what people say, even if there part of my group at the circus, always know that  you’re the best at you do and who you are.’

With a slight somber and quiet tone, Victor finally asks, “Did you love? So much so you are willing to do anything to get her back?”

Dick in all honest couldn’t answer that right away. Even with a deep breath or two he couldn’t answer. He’s sorry he tries but God dang it was that REALLY touchy to him. A hand gently rubs on dick’s shoulder and with two tears ready to fall, Dick looks up to see Koriand’r Grayson as she was the one to say in her eyes ‘it’s okay Richard, you can talk about her’.

With his compose slightly restored, Dick responds, “Yeah, I really do love her but as much as I do want her back, I perfectly okay with what I do have and am sure she’s happy with where she is, body and soul.”

 Doom slightly tensed, “but surely you cannot abandon the one who has given you life and love to such a miserable state especially with such a horrific way she perished. Certainly you must admit within some point in your life you wish for a much happier life than this perpetual misery and torment without any course you can take to undone such. It is almost as if you in some capacity allowed that Wayne to take her place in your soul, a place that should remain unspoiled! Doom certainly would not tolerate such, why must you?’

Dick maintained his stance “Because, I know for all the bad that did happen after what happened to my mom and dad, whenever I felt like falling apart, I had not only Bruce but Starfire here to help get me back up. I take them for what you they are for me, my girlfriend and my ‘second’ dad if you may. They themselves said they’re trying to take their place in my family as my parents. No one can take their place. They just have their own place in my family. I allow my family to grow like. You know, you have Boris but also that kid of yours, Kristoff. Maybe, Dr Doom, maybe they can be their own place in your family too?”

Doom remained silent for a brief while. Perhaps, for all the times this “Nightwing” character along his “friends” the Titans International and their alliance with that…man Richards….and all the times they foiled his plans for bringing Planet Earth unto a state on par with Latveria itself, perhaps he has established some consideration into him. None of this seems possible though. Only Doom can consider such a thought! Not these outsiders! Yes, yes, Doom considers this “places in family” and none others. Still though such ideals must remain silent for now, night has come to Latveria, by now his ward Kristoff has gone to bed as Doom rules. No, his son Kristoff has gone to bed. Very well then, Doom has had enough of this drabble.

“Boris” Doom commands, “please escort our guests to their rooms for the night. Our matters will be concluded tomorrow as Doom commands.”

With that the three Titans follow the elderly gentleman to their rooms for the night. As they head upstairs, Rachel whispers to Dick, “Well, I guess it could’ve been a lot worse than that.”

Kori agrees, “Yes, Richard. I do believe now your skills for table mannerisms with dangerous dictators shall add amongst your other traits.”

Dick shrugs with a small smirk on his face, ‘I’m chatty what can I say”. The three had a soft bit of laughter to that remark.

Okay then, this turned better than they thought.

[jaeminlore]

Illustrated Haiku // Ten Chittaphon

-

the prompt: a soulmate!ten au where y/n loves to write poetry on her arms, and ten likes to illustrate them.

words: 4157

category: fluff

authors note: this isn’t a request, it’s just something I was working on so I hope you guys like it! (also appreciate the gif below of my lil bub)

– destinee

-

Never in your life had you been so bored. Then again, you had once been to your grandmother’s birthday party which consisted of your mother forgetting the cake and everyone having to sit around for twenty minutes while your grandfather told stories about his years as a sales manager.

No, usually you enjoyed your classes as a major in creative writing. But you were a poetry major, and Professor Park was teaching you medieval history. Not to mention the fact that it was a Monday, and also happened to be the day Mother Nature dropped by for a painful visit.

You sat in the back of the class, resting your head on your outstretched arm while the other hovered over a notebook. Note-taking was what you should have been doing, but everything you heard you seemed to forget before you could write it down.

You were tired and hungry, ready to go home after your lecture and take a sleep. Unfortunately for you, Professor Park had fifteen minutes before he would have to dismiss his students.

To pass the time, you pulled out your favorite purple-inked pen and positioned it against your skin. Often when you were bored, you would write poetry about your current situation to pass the time. It also helped you practice your trade.

The biggest task of course was picking which type of poetry to use. A good five minutes passed as you mulled over the possibilities. Finally, you decided to write a haiku.

I am cursed with pain Mr. Park won’t stop teaching Get me out of here

Satisfied with your little poem, you sat back, now determined to write at least one note based on coat of arms and family trees.

You didn’t notice the vibrant colors appearing on your arm, right over your brilliant haiku.

-

As soon as you entered your apartment, exhaustion riddled your body. You wondered why you had decided to take night classes, where you barely got home at midnight only to get up and go to work in the morning.

It was worth it, however, because you were living independently from your own hard work.

You yanked the refrigerator door open and reached up for the milk to complete your cereal.

“What the–?” Your eyes widened as you finally noticed you arm, where a little painting covered up your poem.

Using the light of the fridge, you made out a girl who seemed to be done with the world. She was small enough to fit in your arm, but big enough to cover your poem. You unknowingly pouted at your work being covered up.

Still, the picture was cute and it captured your then-feelings very well.

Forgetting your current state of hunger, you extract your phone from your waistband and dial your best friend’s number.

“Y/n, it’s almost one in the morning. What do you want?”

“It happened,” you said in a rush, excitement running through your veins. “My soulmate and I are linked.”

“Y/n!” Y/f/n laughed. “It’s about time! You’re such a late bloomer I thought you were going to end up alone.”

You frowned at her words, “Hey, I’ll have you know that I’m still very young. Just because you’re getting married next week doesn’t mean anything.”

“Speaking of which, you are taking the day off to come to the wedding, right? Johnny and I really want you there.”

You scoffed, “As if I’m going to let anyone else take my place as maid of honor. I might miss the rehearsal dinner though.”

“Of course you will,” You could hear the scoff in her voice. “Since when is working at a coffee shop more important than me?”

You chuckled humorlessly, “Come to me when you help pay off my student loans.”

“Fair enough. Just be sure to come. You also have to be at the final dress fitting tomorrow.”

“Dresses?”

“Yes. And I set the appointment for after your shift so don’t you dare step out on me.”

“I won’t,” you rolled your eyes.

-

“I asked for soy milk in this.” An angry tween glared at you. She thrusted her small coffee into your hand.

You smiled, composed, “Ma'am, I used soy milk. I promise.”

“Well, it doesn’t taste like soy milk.” she sneered.

You closed your eyes and slowly counted to ten. There was no way a fourteen year old was going to get you fired. “Alright. Give me a second and I’ll make you a new one.”

You made the coffee in front of her this time, so that she saw you pour the soy milk. When you handed it to her, she gave you what could’ve been considered a smile and left the shop.

You decided then would be a good time to take your break, so you grabbed your bag and moved to one of the empty booths. The only other customer was a boy your age that sat behind you, listening to music through his earbuds.

You felt content as you heard the soft acoustic tunes the leaked through the headphones.

After taking a sip of your water, you dug through you bag for a pen. Then, sticking out your arm, you decided to write another haiku:

Grumpy customers why don’t they leave tips for me? I’m trying my best.

The music behind you suddenly stopped, startling you for a moment until it turned into an upbeat hip hop track.

You watched in awe as lines began to appear over your words. Soon, a drawing of a coffee cup filled with dollar bills appeared on your arm.

Your heart warmed at the sight. Perhaps this was your soulmates way of comforting you. It was a strange concept, but you found yourself become attracted to it.

Soon, your break was up and you had to get back to work. Since it was slow, you took to cleaning and refilling the machines.

“Excuse me?” A voice made you stop your action.

You made yourself visible to your new customer, only to see a handsome man standing there with familiar earbuds hanging out of his ears.

He reached out a hand. In it, was the pen you had used to write on your arm. You took it gingerly before looking up at the man and thanking him.

“No problem,” he shrugged, offering you a soft smile. “Wouldn’t want to keep your soulmate waiting, would we?”

You followed his gesture to your exposed forearm. “Oh.”

He suddenly leaned forward to examine the picture. “It looks like scribble.”

“It’s a picture,” you argued.

The stranger stuck his tongue out of the corner of his mouth as he examined it. “I think my four year old nephew could do better than that.”

“That’s what you think,” you retorted. “It doesn’t mean that’s the truth.”

He shrugged nonchalantly, as if he really didn’t care. “I’m only getting you riled up. It’s fun to see your cheeks turn red.”

This boy–

You clutched your fists under the counter and gave him the sweetest smile you could muster. “Thank you for returning my pen. Have a good day.”

“Can I get your name before I go?” He sent you another cheeky smile, which made your brain feel fuzzy for a moment.

“It’s Y/n. What about you?”

“I’m Ten.” He told you before making his exit.

“At least tell me a better fake name than that…” you grumbled under your breath at the strange encounter.

What a day. In an hour, your shift would end and you would have to go to a dress fitting. As if that wasn’t torturous enough, you still had an evening lecture to attend.

-

Y/bff/n took you and the other bridesmaids to a convenience store to get a cheap dinner before dress shopping.

You were scanning the aisles for chocolate milk to eat with your ramyun, but all you could find was plain milk.

With a sigh, you took a plain milk and went to pay for it before sitting down with the rest of the bridal party.

Everyone in the bridal party had stories to tell and things to gossip about. You were content to just take the time to eat.

With the sound of everyone’s laughter as your background music, you took out your trusty pen.

Out of chocolate milk but I’m craving chocolate milk an inconvenience

It was a habit you had acquired before you had a soulmate, so it was safe to say you still got a bit surprised when you saw someone else’s ink on your arm.

You were happily slurping your noodles when Y/f/n started to squeal, pointing at your forearm. “Y/n!”

“Huh?” You swallowed your food and looked down to see the face of a crying baby.

Is he calling me a crybaby?

Insecurely, you pulled the sleeve of your jacket down to cover up the drawing.

That didn’t stop everyone from hounding you about your newfound soulmate.

“I don’t know him!” You finally shouted, causing an elderly couple to glare at you.

You sat down, glaring at your noisy friends. “You guys owe me another bowl of noodles.”

“We’ve wasted too much time already,” Y/f/n said, clapping her hands together excitedly.

You forgot about your anger as you saw the excitement in her eyes. The day she came to your house to show you the stupid aye fam looks like we’re destined to be together on the back of her hand was still fresh in her mind.

Johnny had been a character, but it was all in good fun. He was goofy and eager and always cheered Y/f/n up no matter how bad she felt.

That was a year ago. Now they were ready to take the next step as soulmates: get married.

You knew Y/f/n was in good hands with Johnny. There was no person on this earth that matched her as well as him.

One could say you were jealous of their relationship, but it was more self-pity. There were many days when you felt so overwhelmed with your busy life that you just wished you had your soulmate’s arms to crawl into.

-

“This one is perfect!” Y/f/n said as one of your fellow bridesmaids came out in a dress.

You had to admit, it was beautiful. A short black dress with a billowy a-line skirt and a top with a sweetheart neckline.

You could imagine yourself in it, with uncomfortable heels to match. But as long as your best friend was happy, you were happy.

Until you tried the blasted thing on.

The waistline was so tight you could barely breath. You sat down inside the dressing room and tried to loosen the waist, but you couldn’t reach the zipper.

Now, you could barely stand up. So, you called for your friend, who in return told you to give her five minutes.

With five minutes to distract yourself from dying, you decided to write another haiku yo your soulmate.

this dress is too tight I bet it was the ramyun I cannot breathe, help

Instead of a comforting reply, you received a picture of a boy laughing with tears streaming down his face.

You huffed. So much for a supportive soulmate.

The next five minutes felt like five hours before your best friend finally decided to make an appearance.

“Finally,” you breathed. “You can’t just leave me like that.”

She giggled. “Sorry. Johnny called and I wanted to talk to him. He is taking the boys to get tuxes.”

“That’s great,” you turned around, “Please unzip me before I actually faint.”

“You’re so overdramatic.”

“So?” You pulled the dress off and threw it across the dressing room. “Get me a bigger size or I’m rioting.”

She snorted. “You remind me of one of Johnny’s friends. He’s really funny as well.”

“Ew,” you crinkled your nose. “Please don’t associate me with Johnny or any of his friends.”

“Why not? They’re hot. Most of them are single.”

You shoved your forearm into her face. “I have a soulmate, remember?”

“So?” she said. “Have some fun before you meet him.”

You scoffed. “No matter how much of a twerp my soulmate may be, he is still mine, as I am his. There will be no “fun” without him.“

“Fine,” she smiled, “Let’s get you a bigger size.”

“Thank you.”

-

You woke up the morning of the rehearsal dinner with a bitter attitude.

You had to work from six in the morning until eight at night when the rehearsal dinner actually started.

You also managed to trip in the shower and skinned your knee against the shower floor. It felt like rug burn times ten and you were not in the mood for it.

After covering your wound with a Hello Kitty bandage and getting dressed, you grumpily walked to your workplace.

“You’re late,” your boss greeted you.

“I know, I’m sorry.” You sighed. “It was a rough morning.”

“Well it’s about to be a rough shift because you’ve already got a customer waiting for you.”

“Yes, Sir.”

You had learned months ago that it wasn’t worth arguing with your boss. It was better that you just obey him and get your shift done as quickly as you could.

“Hello, what can I get for you today?” You looked up at your first customer, bracing yourself for an angry customer.

Instead, you saw Ten standing in front of the counter.

He looked so attractive you had to physically step back. Since it was morning, he seemed to be half asleep. His hair was disheveled and hanging over his forehead. Prescription glasses covered his eyes as he read the menu above you.

He seemed to be in his own little world as he sluggishly read out each of the muffin options.

You watched him almost-fondly as he suddenly leaned against the counter and rested his chin on the palm of his hand. “Would you recommend the blueberry muffin or the banana nut muffin?”

Forgetting all about his annoying attitude from the other day, you drummed your fingers on the counter as you answered. “I’ve only ever had the blueberry muffin, but banana nut is a good flavor so I would assume it tastes better.”

Ten straightened up. “I’ll have one banana nut muffin and one black coffee.”

“Okay,” you gave him the total and moved to the back to fix his coffee.

Once the coffee was ready, you placed muffin on a plate and moved to the both where he was sitting.

He didn’t see you at first, so you got to see the sketchbook opened in front of him. There was a sketch of a girl, but it wasn’t detailed yet so you couldn’t make out any distinguishing features.

“Ten?” You set the tray down while he hastily hid his sketchbook. You handed him his coffee and the muffin. “Here’s your order.”

“Thanks,” he looked up and offered you a sleepy smile. “Do you want to try the muffin with me?”

You stopped. “I don’t have a break until–”

“Just a bite.” He promised. “You have to compare it to the blueberry so I know what to get next time.”

You could feel your cheeks heating up as you slid into the booth across from him.

“Don’t worry,” he whispered as he used a plastic fork to cut the muffin in half. “I won’t tell your boss if you won’t.”

You studied his face as he focused on his task before him. His dark skin tone along with his black hair was an attractive combination. He unconsciously stopped to push his glasses back up his nose.

“Here, you try it first.” He gave you a forkful of the muffin.

You pushed it back toward him, “You bought it.”

Ten smirked, “But chances are you helped bake this, so if it’s poison, I want you to try it first.”

You rolled your eyes. Every time he was sweet to you, he turned it into teasing. Either way, he was offering you free food so you couldn’t really complain.

Ten poked your closed lips with the fork. “Try it.”

You obliged, opening your mouth and taking a bite of the muffin. “I was right!” you cheered after you swallowed the breakfast dessert.

“So I shouldn’t even try the blueberry?” Ten questioned as he stuck a forkful into his own mouth.

The fact that you two just shared the same fork flustered you, so you stared at the table to try and hide it from him.

“You’re red again,” Ten sang softly.

“Shut up.”

“Y/n!” Your boss appeared suddenly, causing you to bolt up and hit your thighs against the edge of the table.

“Are you okay?” Ten said, reaching over to help you out of the booth.

“Don’t worry about me,” you whispered.

You stood up and faced your boss, who was glaring at you. “What do you think you’re doing?”

You bowed your head. “I’m sorry, Sir. There were no customers so I thought I could sit for a spell.”

“One more warning, Y/n. One more and I will fire you.” He threatened. “Now get back to work.”

“Yes, Sir.” You hastily moved to get back to your position.

Ten stayed a while longer, finishing his breakfast. You tried not to stare as he slowly forgot his coffee and continued his sketching. You wondered who the girl was.

Soon, the rush of morning customers came and you had no time to think about Ten again.

You didn’t notice him leave.

-

By the time your shift was over, you were tired and hungry.

The last thing you wanted to do was go to a rehearsal dinner. Still, you changed into formal clothes and took the bus to the destination of the wedding.

On the bus, you pulled out your pen and decided to write a new haiku for your soulmate:

I tried a muffin I also have a new friend His name is strange though

It was already nine when you walked into the building. Your eyes met about twenty other pairs from the table where they were all eating a very nice steak dinner.

“Sorry I’m late.” you said.

Everyone greeted you, save for one boy who was bent over his arm, writing something. It wasn’t a rare sight to see young people writing on their arms. That’s the only way to communicate with their soulmate, after all.

Thinking about it made you look down at your own arm. There was a little sketch of a muffin over your haiku, that made you smile as you sat in the empty seat.

You looked up as the waiter set a meal in front of you, put you barely noticed the steak because the person sitting across from you had just looked up from their arm.

You and Ten locked eyes.

“Y/n!” Y/f/n squealed, “I see you met the best man, Ten.”

You looked confused, “Your name is really Ten?”

“Yeah,” he answered, shooting a smile your way.

You and Ten talked the rest of the night and you didn’t feel yourself getting sleepy once.

-

“I’m not ready!” Y/f/n cried as she pulled on her wedding dress.

You stood there in your dress with your hair and makeup all ready. Your best friend, however, had yet to get her makeup done because she couldn’t stop crying.

“Y/f/n,” you pleaded with her. “Your wedding starts in one hour and we have to get your makeup done.”

“What if this is the wrong decision?” She cried, covering her face with her hands.

You sighed, “I’m going to go get Johnny.”

You sprinted down the hallway in your three-inch heels, trying to find the groom’s dressing room. On your way, you ran into Ten.

“Hi,” you breathed. “Can Johnny come give Y/f/n some reassurance? She’s worried.”

Ten sighed and ran a hand through his hand, worried. His neat bangs became ruffled and unruly the more he messed with them.

You tsked and reached up to fix his hair. “You just got this fixed, don’t mess it up,” you mumbled softly.

Ten watched you fondly. “Thanks, Y/n.”

Your face heated up and you immediately moved your hand back to your side. “Sorry.”

“Your cheeks…” Ten reached out and gently brushed his knuckles against your flushed cheeks.

Your eyes met his and you made the horrible mistake of glancing at his lips.

He leaned closer to you, so close that your noses brushed and you could feel the warmth of his breath. Then, he bit his lip anxiously and backed up.

He cleared his throat, “I’ll, um, I’ll go get Johnny.”

You nodded. “Right. Go do that.”

-

The wedding ceremony went by in a blur. You couldn’t stop thinking about Ten. At the same time, you were struggling inwardly because you had a soulmate. Why were you feeling things for Ten when you had a soulmate?

The speech you gave as the maid of honor was filled with words about soulmates that you weren’t sure you could even believe at this point.

You were stoic in your seat as Ten stood up to give a speech about his best friend.

“Hello, everyone! I’m Ten, the best friend of Johnny. Hopefully, I’ll become Y/f/n’s good friend as well,” he offered the bride a smile which she returned. “The concept of soulmates has always been strange to me. I was always worried whether or not it was real, whether the emotions behind the connection was just a figment of everyone’s imagination. But then I met my soulmate.”

You swore you could’ve felt your heart drop to your feet. He already had a soulmate?

He continued, “I met her at her workplace, where I immediately noticed the drawings I draw for her on her forearm. I’m still learning about her, but that is my favorite thing to do so I never mind. And because of her, I understand Johnny and Y/f/n’s love. I understand all of the love Johnny has for Y/f/n. The soulmate bond is unpredictable, but it brought this beautiful couple together. It brought me and my soulmate together. So here’s to the soulmate bond, for bringing Johnny and Y/f/n together.”

You lifted your wine glass along with everyone else, to toast to your friends.

-

After dinner, everyone was mingling either on or off the dance floor.

You stood to the side, watching your friends closely to make sure they didn’t do anything stupid.

Soon, a soft song played through the speakers, and you watched your friends slowly stumble off of the dance floor.

You felt someone tap your shoulder. Turning around, you were surprised to Ten smiling down at you. “Wanna dance?”

Even though you knew you shouldn’t have, you accepted his hand and let him lead you onto the dance floor. You followed his lead and tried your hardest to ignore the feeling of his hand on your waist.

“Did you like my speech?” he asked.

You tried to smile, “I’m sure your soulmate liked it.”

Ten’s grip on your hand tightened. “That’s why I’m asking you.”

Your eyebrows furrowed. “What do you mean?”

A beautiful, genuine smile appeared on Ten’s face and the two of you stopped dancing

“What are you doing?” You asked as Ten suddenly pulled up his sleeve and showed you his arm. There, was the faded drawing of a muffin over your little haiku.

“It’s you,” he smiled. “You write me little poems every day and I draw you pictures in thanks. I knew it from the moment I saw your arm first in the coffee shop.”

Your cheeks flushed and your jaw dropped slightly. You couldn’t even look him in the eyes. You were Ten’s soulmate?

Ten laughed brightly, “It’s really fun to see you turn red.”

“Don’t make fun of me!” You hissed.

With a smile still on his face, Ten pulled you close by the waist. With your foreheads touching, Ten closed his eyes and exhaled softly. “I really want to kiss you right now.”

With a sudden burst of confidence, you managed to speak, “What’s stopping you?”

“Nothing, I guess,” he murmured against your lips before he held your waist tighter and pressed his lips against yours.

You kissed him back immediately, your hands instinctively going to his hair.

The slow song ended, and suddenly a dance song started, causing a ton of people to rush to the dance floor.

The two of you pulled away and moved off of the dance floor.

Johnny and Y/f/n ran towards the both of you, screaming. “I can’t believe you two are soulmates!”

Ten grabbed you hand and squeezed it gently. “Yep. She can’t ever get rid of me.”

You rolled your eyes on the outside, but on the inside, you wanted to say, I would never want to.

~the end~

[fadingfartconnoisseur]

Salzburg – The Musical Metropolis Beyond Mozart & The Sound of Music

As part of my #YearInAustria project, I set out on a city-hopping tour at the start of summer to uncover the urban hubs of Innsbruck, Salzburg and Graz. My aim is to show you how not all Austrian cities are the same and how they are easy accessible, so you can see different sides to the country even in a short time. Salzburg was my second stop. You can also keep up to date with all my adventures on the Austria Tourism website.

Let’s pretend all of Austria’s major cities are siblings. Vienna would be the classical one with a hidden, gritty second personality. Innsbruck would be sporty and Graz would have Mediterranean flair. Salzburg? She would be exquisitely beautiful and musically gifted.

You get the picture.

There’s more to Austria’s forth-largest city than Mozart and the Sound of Music, but it is first and foremost a musical metropolis, even if this is not your sole purpose for visiting. The streets are filled with buskers, opera singers and all manner of harmonic performers, continuing to fill with melody a city that bore one of the greatest composers of all time. Annually the city plays hosts to over 4,000 cultural events, including the internationally renowned Salzburg Festival, while in-between, die-hard fans of the Sound of Music seek out the film’s famous film scenes, just as I did.

It’s no wonder Salzburg takes the tagline “Stage of the World”. That’s a lot of performance to pack into a compact city.

Yet, it’s also a great place to wander and absorb the history that marks it out from other Austrian cities etched with typical Habsburg style and their own distinct atmosphere. Salzburg is timeless while having carved out a youthful vibrancy; distinctly popular without being disgustingly overcrowded and charming in a way that you always hear about, but which you only connect with once you are there.

Catholic Archbishop Heritage over Hapsburg Legacy in Salzburg

My journey began in the Schloss Leopoldskron, the historic palace 20-minutes from the city centre. The epitome of majestic Salzburg, this historic building from 1736 is surrounded by a shimmering blue lake (of Sound of Music fame), manicured gardens and a mountainous backdrop. In 1918 it was taken over by famous theatre director and founder of the Salzburg Festival, Max Reinhardt who renovated to how it stands today with stunningly decorated rooms and a grand library, all of which you have a free reign to wander. Once the gathering place of writers, composers and other creatives, I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to a city I had longed to visit for many years. Alas, after an emotional arrival (for reasons I cannot work out I just wanted to burst into tears the second I stood in the grounds here) and gorging on Palace interiors, the city was calling.

Salzburg’s historic city centre has been a World Heritage Site since 1997 and seen as the most significant baroque city north of the Alps. It was built to be exquisite and display prosperity. Occupying a special position in Europe as a Roman stronghold on the junction of a military road that linked the north and south of Europe, it came into being in the 7th Century (year 700) when it was founded and ruled by independent Catholic Prince archbishops. It’s absence of grand Hapsburg touches are replaced by those of the secular kind – with Cathedrals and beautiful baroque church spires, all set within large open Italian flair squares which today are filled with artworks and views to the castle on the hilltop. The Archbishops’ power and affluence continued well into the 19th century, who built the city from the wealth accumulated through salt trading (hence the city’s name). It only became a part of the Habsburg Empire in 1816.

In place of pastel candy coloured noble houses and overshadowing the art nouveau touches of Austrian monarchy, you’ll find pretty avenues (a highlight being the Getreidegasse shopping mile full of traditional confectioners, tailors and weavers alongside international brands), hidden courtyards, narrow cobbled streets, palaces, gardens and fountains like those of the Mirabell, topped off with a scattering of mint-coloured rooftops.

The city’s 1,000 protected buildings can be admired from various elevated viewpoints in the city, the best being the rooftop of the Museum of Modern Art, which is a complete window on the city that includes the 11th century Hohensalzburg Fortress – the medieval castle that watches over the city (itself a frequented panoramic vantage point).

There’s a Lot of History in Salzburg, but an Arty, Youthful Presence

I always like to see how old cities add some modern spark in order to stay interesting and relevant to all manner of visitors. Salzburg is decadent but it isn’t without a subtle coating of youthful vibes and modern creative inclusions, which are fun to find and push you to explore outside the historic centre.

Modern artworks like the man on the golden globe and the giant interactive chessboard, add colour and inquisitiveness to old squares as you stop and gaze at the baroque structures that dominate. Get to Steingasse, across the river from the Historical Old Town. It is the oldest street in Salzburg and the historical alleyway of the city, yet is a place where street art and trendy neighbourhood vibes are emerging.

While you are on this side of the river wander through the neighbourhood of Andräviertel. It’s quieter, has some independent stores and cafes, adding to a growing bohemian feel that make it feel like a different ‘halve’ of Salzburg across the water.

A University City, you’ll stumble across from the hum of coffee houses in courtyards, trendy bars and eateries that feed the young heart. Salzburg is even where ‘Lederhosen Donnerstag’ (Lederhosen Thursday) was established, where young people come together in traditional clothing to socialise and muse in a modern establishment on this chosen day of the week. The city is known for its endless array of Dirndl and Lederhosen shops, and this fun movement keeps the culture alive. There wasn’t an event on when I was there, although I did shop for a dirndl (albeit there was too much choice). I’ve since been to an event in Vienna and while not as established, the sentiment is spreading!

Five Centuries of Salzburg Beer Heritage

Salzburg is a city with over 500 years of beer heritage. It’s a rite of passage to immerse yourself in Salzburg’s beer heritage and sip on a Steiner at the Augustiner Brewery as you marvel the history of the monks. Choose the size of your Steiner, pay for it and then let one of the guys fill you up from the barrel. Find a table, socialise with locals and grab some traditional foods, which you can find served outside the giant beer halls. Even if you are on your own, as I was, you will strike up a conversation since sharing tables is a part of the beer culture. My best friend, Steph demonstrates the scale of the beer and the atmosphere perfectly from her visit a month before mine.

Still thirsty? Head to the 17th century established Stiegl Brewery that is still in operation today.

OK, Back to Music… Because I Went on the Sound of Music Tour!

Hollywood can often ruin a city, especially one made famous by the longest standing musical film of all time that attracts over 300,000 tourists a year. However, while some of the 1965 film’s scenes are within the centre of the city, many remain outside of it, accessible only by your own meticulous planning (and special permission) or via The Sound of Music Panorama Tours bus.

I admit I was a little pessimistic about a bus tour since I like to bounce around on my own time. But here’s the honesty. It was one of the most fun mornings I’ve ever had – a bus full of excitable Sound of Music fans hyper on Do Re Me, My Favourite Things, How do You Solve a Problem like Maria and all other tunes, while staring out of the window at Salzburg’s green vistas. Panorama Tours have created a sing-along, multi-stop schedule that runs every day of the year (because it is THAT in demand). It stops at various highlights including the other side of the Schloss Leopoldskron pond (access is only available if you stay at the property), the white gazebo known for “Sixteen going on Seventeen”, passes the outskirts of Villa Trapp, heads out to the church where Maria and Captain Von Trapp got married and ends at the beautiful Schloss Mirabell in the city. So you can dance on the Pegasus (Do-Re-Mi) fountain and snap yourself on the famous stairs at the Mirabell Gardens.

The tour is also a way of getting out in the surrounding nature of Salzburg, where you can spot the Untersberg (the panoramas used in the opening scenes of the Sound of Music). While the city is pocketed with gardens and cycle paths, the mountain ranges of the Mönchsberg, Festungberg and Kapuzinerberg hug the city, whose old and modern districts are divided by the river Salzach. On the Panorama Tours bus you weave through these mountainous valleys and past half a dozen lakes, getting an introduction to the diversity of Salzburg state.

And… you can’t Visit Salzburg Without Honouring Mozart (even if it’s with chocolate)

Mozart is the city’s most famous son, born and bred in Salzburg and forever a part of its legacy. Born in Getreidegasse 9 (in 1756), today fans flock for a picture outside the building’s brightly painted yellow façade, which now incorporates a permanent exhibition about his life and career, and modern Spar supermarket on the lower level. Afterwards, you can indulge in a “Mozartkugel” chocolate, whose silver and blue wrapper marks it out as the “Original Salzburger Mozartkugel” – the real deal compared to the red and gold wrapped ‘souvenir’ style Mozartkugels found elsewhere in Austria.

There’s a lot of pride here over the delicious mesh of green marzipan that’s layered with nougat and dark chocolate, which you can buy from Fürst on Brodgasse. In 1890, master confectioner Paul Fürst invented this treat and named it after the city’s composer, who was not even that famous at the time. It is still produced by hand to this day with the original recipe and I can confirm it does indeed taste a lot better than the mass-produced ones (because I’m now a chocolate kugel snob).

Honour the legends of Salzburg and take yourself on the musical journeys it is worthy of, but know there are more stories in its architecture, art, old alleyways and trendy neighbourhoods that are giving this city more reasons for a visit.

Things to Note:

How to get to Salzburg

Salzburg has an airport, but is an easily accessible city from anywhere in Austria, especially the major city hubs. Salzburg is a 2.5-hour train ride from Vienna, 2 hours from Innsbruck and 4 hours from Graz, easily accessible via the ÖBB network.

Entrance fees and Getting Around Salzburg

The Salzburg Card gives you access to all museums, transport and discounts in certain stories and other outlets. It’s especially good if you want to visit the Museum of Modern Art just for the view, while using it for other advantages. A 24-hour card costs €24, 48-hour €32 and a 72-hour card is €37. There are also Salzburg hotel and card packages from €119.

Where to stay in Salzburg

Suggested historical city centre hotels include the centrally located 3* Bergland Hotel, and the real Villa Trapp. For those looking for ultimate luxury and a magnificent backdrop of mountains, stay in the wonderful Schloss Leopoldskron.

How Can I Book the Sound of Music Tour?

Sound of Music fans should take the Panorama Tours musical bus all around the key film locations and out into the surrounding lake areas. The musical is also shown at the Salzburg Marionette Theatre and at the Salzburg State Theatre (check if it’s a live sing-along!).

I want to be in Salzburg During a Festival. When do they take place?

For more information of Salzburg’s world-acclaimed events including the summer Salzburg Festival, the Salzburg Easter Festival and ‘Mozart Week’ check out the online Salzburg events calendar.

For further information on Salzburg…

Check out the Salzburg Tourist information website. For further information about planning your trip around Austria visit the Austria Tourism website, where you can also keep up to date with all my adventures.

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