#and i finally stranded her on the other side of the river while she was hunting and abandoned the fortress to ruin

[mysteriesofmilo]

Yes!

Isabella was nervous about the idea at first. She said she didn't like Paris. But Phineas insisted that there was only one place he could spend his honeymoon with the cutest girl in the multiverse.

Because, once they got there, Phineas revealed that he had made a mental note of everything Isabella wanted to do with him in Paris. He explained that they all sounded like great ideas, but they were in too much of a rush to do it that day. (So that's why he insisted on having the wedding in mid-June!)

(I'll note here that while Candace and Isabella had been making all the plans for the wedding, including Buford's Phineas-in-a-tuxedo on the wedding cake, Phineas had been busy with Ferb making all the plans for the honeymoon.)

One night, they shared a crêpe sucrée at a Parisian café, then took a break and smelled some flowers underneath the Eiffel Tower. Another night, they shared a crème brûlée. One day, they tried some fancy cheese (and laughed when they found certain flavors disgusting), perused the galleries, tried on berets (again laughing when they took them off and their hair was all messed up), and took an evening stroll down the Champs-Élysées. Phineas even took advice from his best man and gave Isabella a rose, as he whispered "ma chérie, je t'aime." (French for "My darling, I love you")

They went on an afternoon boat ride on the Seine, but Phineas had another surprise up his sleeve: before the boat could land, he helped Isabella into a fun preserver, and they floated away down the river. As they floated, they held hands and watched the sunset together.

They spent a few hours at a movie. While they couldn't understand much of what was said due to it being French, they could generally figure out what was going on. Phineas decided to dress up as the hero after the movie. So Isabella naturally decided to dress up as the heroine. They then recreated a few scenes, putting in their own English dialogue instead (and laughing at each other's corny jokes!)

One night, Phineas had booked them a private room at a restaurant. The wallpaper was decorated with butterflies. Phineas ordered iced tea to drink and asked "You want some, honey?" When Isabella asked him to repeat, he smiled and repeated "You want some, honey?" And later, they ended that night with ice cream.

One day they rode a ferris wheel together and saw the city from above, again.

And on their last day in Paris, Isabella finally asked Phineas why he only booked a one-way flight there. (He had also booked one-night stops in Tokyo and the Himalayas on the way there to recreate the experience, but he hadn't booked a return flight to Danville.) He showed her what he had been working on: a small-scale replica of the baguette boat version of the Amazing Sun Beater 3000, with only two seats. (It was much harder without Ferb, but that's why it took him the entire visit.) He said that he had used satellite images to locate the island in the Atlantic where they had been stranded (it was pretty easy, considering it was the only island they could find with two trees on the west side, ox bones, and a giant rubber band around the trees), and set a course for it. Once there, they sat down and enjoyed another beautiful sunset. Then after the sun went down, Phineas pulled out a giant piece of paper (that Ferb had folded for him) from under the seats, along with a small piece of rope he had saved, and the two of them recreated the giant slingshot using the giant rubber band they had left behind. And they flew home to Danville after all. Finally, Phineas announced that he HAD now traveled the four corners of the globe, all for Isabella.

Phineas and Isabella go to Paris for their honeymoon cuz Phineas felt bad about being so oblivious the first time

[greenwitchfromthewoods]

the river. l Joel Miller

before Jackson

Summary: the day you met

Warnings:  a little bit of angst, guns, Ellie

A/N: I talked to wonderful @underneath-the-sky-againabout how they could meet. I didn't want anything dangerous so this part is rather boring.

your feedback is very important to me and I thank you for all the reblogs, comments and likes. 🖤 sorry for all the mistakes

short stories from life. [masterlist]

This kid was either stupid or just careless. You watched in disbelief as the young girl took off her jacket, threw it on a nearby rock, and then carefully walked towards the river. It was a cloudy day and the sun was slowly setting. The area was peaceful and quiet. Almost.

You had noticed this kid a while ago, she was wandering between the trees as if aimlessly. You watched her from behind a tree, she put her hands in the cool water and began to wash herself. Hands, arms, then neck and face. She was so absorbed that she didn't notice the two men on the other side.

Thank God, they hadn't seen her yet either. You slowly crept towards her. The stones crunched quietly under your shoes, but the sound of the water effectively drowned it out. You stood behind her almost silently. 

She froze when you placed your hand over her mouth and quietly whispered. "Look to the other side. Do you see them?" she nodded "Be quiet and follow me."

You both slowly retreated behind a nearby boulder that completely covered you. You let go of the girl, she couldn't have been more than fourteen, and carefully leaned out to take a look at the other side. The men were still standing there, but it seemed like they were about to disappear into the thicket of trees. They were probably looking for a place to spend the night.

Something clicked and you looked over your shoulder. The girl's pale face showed fear but also determination, she was holding a knife in her hands.

"Who are you?" she asked in a trembling voice "What are you doing here?"

"I think I'm saving your life, right?" you replied calmly.

"You came up behind me." she hissed, her hand trembling "What do you want?"

You glanced at the other side, it was already empty. You leaned against the boulder and looked at the young girl. "If I wanted to kill you I could have done it three times already. You were pretty careless."

She shrugged. "I just wanted to wash up."

"I understand that, but them? I don't think so." You raised your hands to show that you had peaceful intentions. "What's your name?"

She hesitated for a moment, but finally snapped, "Ellie. And you?"

You gave her your name. "Are you alone here?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Because I'd be impressed if it turned out that you ended up here all alone. I have a camp nearby, it's safe. If you don't have a place to sleep..."

You looked at each other carefully. The hand that Ellie was holding the knife in slowly dropped. 

"And you're alone too?"

You nodded.

"And you're offering me a place to stay?"

"I can also offer you something to eat, but if you don't want to..."

"No!" she protested quickly. “I mean… Shit! I’m hungry as hell.”

Ellie asked you to go back with her to get her stuff. So you set off into the forest, carefully looking around. You had already learned that she had gotten out of Boston, but you didn't know how she had gotten here. It had been a long way, and not very safe. But it was Ellie who was mostly asking you questions, and she had a lot of them.

"You must be doing great since you're all alone."

"Sometimes you have no choice." you replied.

"Yeah, I guess you're right. And have you thought about... Joel!"

You froze. Suddenly, a tall man appeared right in front of you. He had furrowed brows, a prominent nose, and his dark hair was interwoven with gray strands. He was holding a gun, so you reached for yours, instinctively covering Ellie with yourself.

His face twitched strangely.

"No! This is..." Ellie wanted to say something, but the guy raised his hand and she fell silent.

"You weren't supposed to go away," he growled. 

"I wanted to wash up." The girl replied.

"Do you know him?" You asked.

"Yeah, unfortunately." Ellie sighed, and the guy raised an eyebrow. The girl gave him your name, then said his name was Joel. "She helped me. There were two assholes not far from here. If it wasn't for her, they would have noticed me."

"You should have been careful." Joel hissed.

"Hey! Don't talk to her like that." You shot back.

"No, he's okay."

"He doesn't look like it."

"Yeah, he's not a ray of sunshine." Ellie chuckled. "Joel, put the gun down. She's cool. She promised to feed me, and I can sleep at her camp too."

Joel grimaced, his dark eyes never leaving your face. "Maybe she'll also take you to an amusement park, huh?"

"I'd rather go to the movies and bowling." You replied.

Eventually, you both put your guns away, and Ellie grabbed her backpack. She pretended not to notice the menacing glances you and Joel were giving each other. Now all you could hear was her chattering as you walked towards your camp. 

After a few minutes, a small cabin appeared in front of you, completely hidden in the thicket of trees and bushes. If you hadn't pointed it out to them, they probably would never have guessed it was there. 

"It's an old hunters' cabin, I found it a few days ago." You explained as they entered. "You'll be able to sleep in peace."

Joel watched reluctantly as Ellie happily settled down on the bed, then gratefully accepted the meal you had given her. They had been eating rather little for the past few days, saving their rations. He also accepted a bowl of stew from a can from you.

"Are you alone here?"

You looked at Joel. He didn't take his eyes off you, clearly caring about Ellie's safety.

"Yes, I am." You replied. "I left one of the zones, with a group of people."

"What happened to them?" Ellie asked with difficulty, her mouth full of stew and crackers.

You shrugged. "They're gone. I've been alone since then."

For a while, the only sounds were the clatter of spoons and swallowing. Finally, you were the one who asked the next question. "Where are you going?"

"To Jackson." Ellie blurted out, and you noticed that Joel immediately straightened up as if to stop her.

"Jackson?" you repeated after her, "That's far."

"Were you there?" Joel mumbled.

"A while ago." You put down the bowl and reached for the cup of tea, taking a few sips, "Long way ahead of you."

After a few minutes, Ellie wrapped herself in her sleeping bag and curled up on your bed. It was already dark. Although Joel protested, you told him that he should also get some sleep.

"I'll keep watch. Don't worry." You said, taking one of the blankets and heading for the door. "You need to get some sleep before you set off again."

The night was peaceful. The quiet rustles of night creatures sometimes reached your ears, but it wasn't a threat. For a moment, you let your thoughts wander, but then you started thinking about Ellie and felt uneasy.

You jumped slightly when you heard the cabin door open. Joel's dark figure stepped out. He looked around uncertainly, and then he spotted you.

"I can't sleep." He mumbled. "It's too quiet."

"You should get some sleep. Lack of sleep means less alertness." You replied, he just nodded. Something was clearly bothering him.

"Listen..." he started again after a moment "I was talking to Ellie. We're wondering..." you looked at him expectantly, Joel cleared his throat "Maybe you'd like to go to Jackson with us? You know how to get there. We could all help each other." 

You watched him carefully. Ellie had to force him to ask you, or maybe he rarely asked for anything himself.

"I don't know..."

"I know, the movies and bowling are probably more tempting." he sighed, and you laughed quietly "I saw how you shielded Ellie when I met you. Why did you do that?"

You were silent for a moment. "I've seen a lot of bad things happen to girls like her." you finally answered "If I could stop it..."

Joel nodded. He understood what you meant. However, the move made an impression on him. Ellie was a stranger to you, but despite everything you wanted to take care of her safety. It was impressive, and maybe a little stupid.

"We could use someone like you," he continued, shoving his hands into the pockets of his jeans, "And you wouldn't be alone."

"Do you think I miss company?"

"Everyone needs it sometimes, right?"

You considered his words for a moment. It was a good offer. Jackson would give you shelter for a while, you could rest, gather your thoughts and plan your next steps. You stood up and took the blanket off your shoulders, then pressed it into Joel's hands. 

"If I'm going with you, I could use some sleep." You said, a small smile playing on his lips and you smiled back.

☆☆☆☆

Thank you for your time.

taglist, i think: @picketniffler @orcasoul @bbyanarchist @o-sacra-virgo-laudes-tibi @somedayheaven @underneath-the-sky-again

[eyesfullofsttars]

MEDIEVAL ELLABS PLS IM BEGGING 🙏🙏🙏

All our weight is just a burden offered to us by the world... If i fall, I only pray, don't fall away from me.

The weight of her responsibilities and expectations was evident in the bruises left by her heavy armor. Abigail Anderson, the King's favored knight, always led the charge in combat, returning to the realm triumphant, her blade felling every menace with ease. She traversed each path with bravery, destined to defend the vulnerable.

Her noble heart compelled her to keep a vigilant eye on Ellie Williams. Scorned by the authorities but cherished by the people who watched her grow, Ellie’s prowess was matched only by her impatience and recklessness, laughing in the face of peril without hesitation.

Partnering with Williams often caused Abigail stress. She constantly rode close behind, her hand near her weapon, ready to defend against any threat. Ellie was forced to follow tedious, familiar routes, Abigail's caution preventing them from straying into unknown territory.

Training together was frequently exhausting. Ellie’s sarcastic humor lightened the atmosphere, but her competitive nature often made Abigail roll her eyes in amusement and disbelief.

“Whoever disarms the other first wins,” Ellie declared, adjusting her short auburn hair, tucking stray strands behind her ear while twirling her sharp blade.

“Williams, be careful with that,” Abby murmured, leaving Ellie unsure if she referred to the challenge or her playful handling of the weapon capable of ending any foe’s life.

Typically, Abigail's honed technique prevailed. Yet, when Ellie triumphed, her exuberant celebrations were unending. Abby found this both perplexing and amusing, seeing Ellie so overjoyed.

On the battlefield, their connection was unmatched, forming an exceptional team. Likely, this was why the King tolerated Williams despite her rebellious streak. Abby was willing to sacrifice herself for anyone, preferring it over attending funerals and seeking divine forgiveness. She found a reason to endure in Ellie, who would slay five men to keep Abby alive.

Neither woman said goodbye before facing adversaries, accepting success as inevitable, returning together to celebrate. Their plans succeeded, combining Abby’s strategic brilliance and flawless technique with Ellie’s agility and ferocity, her arrows ending every danger.

For Ellie, fighting for survival turned into a guarantee of safety, knowing Abby always had her back. In return, she followed Abby’s orders with unwavering loyalty, grateful for the privilege of protection.

At day’s end, they shed their burdensome gear, exhausted. Sometimes, they collapsed in the meadow near the river, in the wild forests that felt less intimidating to those who belonged there.

Lying in the grass, basking in the sunlight side by side, Williams initiated contact. She set aside her sword to gently untangle Abby’s neat blonde braid, freeing her long, wavy hair. Ellie carefully removed each piece of armor with patience and tenderness, not wanting to cause any discomfort.

When Abigail began to protest, Ellie quickly silenced her. “Shh, it's alright. I’m here,” she whispered softly, gazing at Abby with her longing verdant eyes, needing to do this for her. “You’ve carried the weight long enough. Let me take care of you.”

Ellie’s veined hands freed Abby from every burden, granting her a moment of celestial respite. Stripped of her gleaming armor, she remained in her light, sweat-soaked shirt from the constant battles.

“Let me… let me,” Abigail stammered, reaching out to Ellie, her chest heaving with each breath.

But Williams shook her head slowly, running her hands through Abby’s loose hair, cradling her face. “No, Anderson. Let me do this. You deserve to rest.”

Despite her duties as a knight bound to loyalty to the crown, Abigail Anderson finally had a reason beyond protecting the kingdom. She had someone who understood her and allowed her to be vulnerable. Ellie Williams, never belonging to anyone, a child of nature, now had a place to call home, knowing someone would always be there to care for her and let her love without merely surviving, but truly living.

[petricorah]

zukka ficlet - knee pain 1.6k

“Bleeding hog monkeys,” Sokka cursed through gritted teeth as the leather strap on his knee brace finally snapped off. It had been weakened in their last fight with Fire Nation stragglers. A few groups were less than excited about the new fire lord’s orders—aka, to stop the attempt at world domination—and had finally decided to fight back. The gaang had been traveling the past few months to subdue them. Sokka insisted he was going to help, even though his knee, still wounded from falling during their fight with the airships, wasn’t as agreeable than his mind. Putting aside his slight lack of speed and faulty reactions in battle, it was causing him insurmountable pain. He had engineered a knee brace to help, and it had reduced the stress on his joints and allowed him to fight closer to his previous abilities, but the brace was now nothing more than a tattered mess of singed leather and half melted buckles.

Sokka balled up the frayed array of straps and chuckled it into the river he was sitting next to—an action that sent pain clambering up his leg, and making him yelp with a certain high pitched sound that certainly wasn’t manly.

“Sokka?”

Sokka immediately flinched into upright position. “Z-Zuko,” he chirped, attempting to casually lean against the rock he was standing near as Zuko emerged from the woods. “Fire Lord Zuko. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

Zuko rolled his eyes and walked up. “I told you to stop calling me that." He came to a stop in front of him, and Sokka couldn't help but admire him. His hair was getting even longer now, and it suited him.

It had been quite some time since the coronation. Lots of time together, working to undo the damage his father had done. Both by his side in the fire nation as his ambassador, and now, traveling again. So much had changed, and while he certainly looked more regal now, with his long hair and patterned robes, he still made Sokka's heart race like he had at boiling rock all that time ago. Perhaps even more so, as they'd continued to get closer as they worked—

"Dinner’s almost gone, and you weren’t back yet.” A teasing smile played at Zuko's lips, despite his attempts to appear stoic and wise. “I thought you were stuck in a hole.”

“Hey!” Sokka said, with an accusing wave of his finger. “You weren’t there for that.”

“Toph told me,” Zuko said. “Several times.”

Sokka clicked his tongue in embarrassment, feeling his cheeks warm. Damn Toph. In an attempt to make up for her and Zuko’s lack of a life-changing bonding trip, she’d taken to telling any story that made Zuko laugh—and most of those tended to be at Sokka’s expense.

“But I see you’re above ground,” Zuko said, his golden eyes passing over Sokka, seeming to glow in the dim light. “And in one piece. So what’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong,” Sokka said with a fake lofty air.  

“You’re missing dinner,” Zuko said. “And it’s pig hen, your favorite.”

He never could get anything past him.

Sokka sighed in defeat and blew air to move a strand of hair from his face. “My knee hurts. I was trying to fix the brace, and I couldn’t, so it’s going to hurt more until I can get materials to make a new one.”

“You told Katara it didn’t hurt.” The words came in Zuko’s standoffish deadpan. Sometimes it was hard to tell when Zuko was just stating a fact in his rough voice or when he was being belligerent.

��Yeah, well. She’s having fun with Aang tonight. They’re all gross and obnoxiously lovey-dovey.” His looked away, at anything other than Zuko’s intense expression. Maybe if he studied the ants on the ground enough it would teleport him out of this conversation. “I’m not going to ruin that by making her bend water over my knee for an hour and then be all worried after.” He shook his head, and then met Zuko’s eyes again with what he hoped was a convincing smile. “It’s fine.”

Zuko’s stare was unnervingly sharp. Deadly. It was similar to the look he used to give them when they were about to fight, or the look he gave conniving fire lord generals who were faithful to his father’s old ways. Like he was really fucking angry and the only thing stopping him from setting things ablaze was Iroh’s voice in his head telling him to breathe.

But in an instant, it was gone.

“I’ll do it,” Zuko said curtly.

Sokka snorted. “You’ll do what?”

“I’ll work on your knee.”

“Yeah, thanks, but I don’t need my skin melted. When I do, I’ll give you a call.”

“Pain relief,” Zuko corrected, glaring at him like it should have been obvious that Zuko wasn't suggesting amputation by agonizing flame. “I’ve been…working on it. Uncle said the elements can learn from each other, so I figured there must be a way. I know your knee has been hurting so…I’ve been practicing.” He nervously rubbed the back of his hair. “It will help. Make it feel better, if only for a bit.”

Sokka blinked, staring at him with wide eyes. Zuko did all that for him? For him?

But Zuko’s pointed gaze snapped back to him, making Sokka’s heart flinch.

“It isn’t a choice. Either you do it with me or you ask Katara.” He stalked forward, almost threateningly, making Sokka take a half step back. “It would have been in a better place by now if you had rested at first. You can’t keep hurting yourself and pretending like it doesn’t matter—”

“Okay,” Sokka said, putting his hands up with a gentle laugh. Only Zuko would show he cared by trying to intimidate Sokka into taking care of himself. “Okay, we’ll do it.” He snorted, trying to offset the real emotions he was feeling with a joke. “What am I gonna do, run away from you?”

Zuko’s eyes narrowed. “That’s not funny.”

Sokka blinked. Maybe it would have been funnier if he hadn’t landed on his bad knee after saving Zuko from an arrow, but that was neither here nor there.

So he gave in and sat down, awkwardly, not knowing exactly how to react at what was about to happen.

Zuko knelt in front of him, which was already an image that made Sokka’s head spin, and then he rolled up Sokka’s pant leg, making Sokka’s entire body tense in embarrassment. But he didn’t stop him. He was just relieved that Zuko was so concentrated on his knee that he wasn’t noticing how much Sokka was blushing.

Zuko did a small motion with his hand, and flames erupted from his palm. But he concentrated, his eyes narrowed, and the bright orange fire subsided into a snaking ring that began to spin, controlled and glowing. It almost…moved like water.

Zuko placed it above Sokka’s knee, enough so the warmth radiated across his skin but didn’t burn.

Sometimes Sokka couldn’t fathom it. That someone he used to hate, sometimes even fear, was now someone he trusted so completely he’d allow him to not only bend next to him, but use it to help him, now, when he was vulnerable.

The heat was intense. Not unpleasant, but intense. Almost like it was blocking out the pain as it radiated up his leg, settling in his chest.

He let out a sigh, slowly settling into the position as the tension seeped from his shoulders. He hadn’t felt this painless in…a long time.

“I…I never did say thank you,” Zuko murmured. Zuko’s lashes were long, eyes downcast as he worked the flames under his hands. “For earlier.”

“You better not be doing this because you feel guilty,” he said. “Because I’ve saved your life about a hundred times by now. With that logic, you’ll be doing me favors until we’re both old men.”

Zuko chuckled. It was a low, good sound. A sound that made Sokka feel like he won a prize every time he earned it. A sound that made Sokka want to drop everything else and just focus on making Zuko smile.

“Gladly,” Zuko said with a low smile. “I’d do pretty much anything for you, Sokka.”

Sokka stilled, everything else fading from his view as he met Zuko’s golden eyes.

“But I’m not doing this out of guilt,” he continued. The heat pressed on, and the pain was gone from his mind. “I’m doing this so you don’t stubbornly give yourself chronic pain. Because I care about your knee,” he said. The flames dimmed, but his hand still glowed, and he slowly placed his palm against his knee. Sokka could feel the heat, and his heart was squeezing in his chest—

“And I care about you.”

His hand was still there. It was a marvel that Sokka’s brain was still functioning enough to form the thought that Zuko’s hand was on his knee as he stared up at him, saying that he cared about him.

Now. He should tell him he loves him now, right now, before he lost his nerve, again—

“Zuko, I…”

“We should get back,” Zuko said with a breeziness that Aang would have been proud of, and Sokka felt a rush of cold air as Zuko’s hand left him. Zuko stood, brushing himself off.

Sokka’s stomach dropped with a mixture of alarm and disappointment as the moment went up in smoke before his eyes. “Thanks,” he managed to blurt out.

“No problem,” he said. “Just one of the hundred of favors I owe you, right?”

“Right,” Sokka said in a faint voice. He let out a nervous, bubbling laugh. “We’ll have to grow old together just so you have time to make it all even.”

“Wouldn’t want it any other way.” Zuko smiled warmly. Of course it was warm. Everything about Zuko was warm.

Spirits. This would be the death of him, wouldn’t it? Loving this man who was so dense he would never catch onto any of Sokka’s flirting, and being so helplessly and terrifyingly in love he’d rather take an arrow to the heart than risk ruining their friendship? Was this just his fate now?

He stood, and subsequently staggered, his legs wobbly from a reason completely different than the pain from earlier, but Zuko steadied him. His warm hands holding his arm, the other on the small of his back, and he was so close that Sokka could smell the scent of smoke that followed him.

“You good?” Zuko’s voice was tinged with concern, sparking in his ear. “Is it still in pain?”

“No,” Sokka said quickly. “Just getting…used to it. It feels better. It feels great. I-I can’t wait for you to do it again.” Please.

Zuko blinked, some unreadable shock in his eyes at the words that had just tumbled from Sokka’s mouth, but his smile twitched onto his face. “I’m glad it worked,” he said. “And I can carry you. If it helps.”

Sokka’s face lit up in a blush and he smacked Zuko’s chest. “I do not need you to carry me.” I certainly couldn’t handle you carrying me. “Just…this. This is enough.”

Zuko readjusted, allowing Sokka to hold onto his forearm, the two slowly making their way back to camp. The pain from his knee was distant as he talked to Zuko about the earlier battles, relishing in ever laugh that he got.

Yeah.

This would be enough.

[sokkadora]

bad for business — mizu x fem!reader

summary: she’s good for my heart, but she’s bad for business!

a/n: first fic of the year :3 also remember to pirate this show because the creators are violent zionists!!!

wc: 590

warning(s): fluff, angst, mizu being sad :<

from the river to the sea, palestine will be free 🇵🇸

requests are open!

︿︿︿︿︿︿ ✎ᝰ . . . .

Mizu stared blankly at the wall on the other side of the room from your shared bed, wishing that her mind could be half as empty as her expression.

She sighed deeply and turned her head to look to you— your bare back turned to her, skin almost glistening in the moonlight emitting from the window as your form rose and fell with slow and steady breaths. A far cry from your condition before the both of you had left for London.

She reached over and tucked a loose strand of hair behind your ear, her finger brushing against the scar on your cheek. She almost smiled at the memory of how it got there— accidentally slicing your cheek while teaching you to duel with a sword. It was your bad in her defense; you just had to use those stupid beautiful eyes on her.

Sighing, she shifted her focus back to the wooden walls of the ship, and tried to push the images of you on the brink of death from her mind.

The two of you had finally caught up with Fowler, but you’d split up and ending up getting wounded badly by the man before she’d found the both of you. As if she didn’t have enough of a reason to hate him.

Bruised ribs, a concussion, and a stab wound from an arrow of your own crafting through your stomach were not a fun combination to experience. So she’d been told by you, at least.

She wished she’d just been cruel enough to leave you behind. Let you freeze to death or get eaten by wolves, so she didn’t have to feel this guilt over having the only person she gives a shit about get wounded for the sake of her revenge trip.

Love was a death trap.

You’d have thought after Mikio, that would’ve been jammed through her damn skull. But then she met you.

The only thing that gave her a reason to make it out of the other side of this mission.

Maybe she should send you on the next boat back to Japan. Yeah; once they landed in London, she’d do anything she had to in order to get you back home and away from her.

A soft grunt pulled her from her head, slowly turning her head towards you as you turned your head back and hummed.

“Hey,” She whispers through the dark, squinting as you started turning to face her while laying on your right side. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“You didn’t,” You rasped, eyes still closed as you reached out for her and hugged her forearm to your chest. “I felt like you weren’t here and got worried.” You grumbled against her arm, letting out a nearly blissful sigh.

She falls silent, the guilt for even thinking— fathoming the thought to leave you behind started to gnaw at her now.

She calls your name softly, causing you to hum through your sleepiness curiously.

“I…” She swallows, throat bobbing. “I love you.”

You respond, with zero hesitation. She always believed she was an impossible to love; she was an Onryō, a demon, a godforsaken woman who had been cursed to live a life her on this miserable world…

“I love you too.” You smile against her arm, “So much.”

And you loved her like it was breathing.

She couldn’t leave you behind.

She watches you slip under the heavenly covers of sleep with a smile on your lips before ripping her gaze away from you again.

“Shit.”

[the-fiction-witch]

Fight For You

Media - House Of The Dragon Character - Oscar Tully (Age Up) Couple - Oscar X Reader Reader - Y/n Rating - 17 Word Count - 1482

Oscar was anxious of course. After the long seemingly endless war the idea they were at peace seemed… unusual to him. He always expected a battle or sudden attack having long learned to sleep with his sword at his side.

But Riverrun was back to normal or so everyone around him liked to say, and today the castle prepared for a grand event.

He knew of course he would have to marry being the only living Tully and Lord paramount of the riverlands and all river houses. His hand was a valued item to the ladies of the court as well as for the continuity of his family name and line.

His bride had arrived yesterday while he was out dealing with some business with the Brackens and Blackwoods again so he hadn't actually met her yet.

Oscar was tempted to visit her last night but he didn’t wish to bother or frighten his fair lady.

Oscar walked down the corridors lined with banners of blue and red mixing with those of black and yellow the two houses to be drawn together in this marriage.

"My lord! A handsome sight for any lady indeed." Lord Frey smiled ever the kiss ass,

Oscar nodded to the lord of the crossing, "Thank you, my lord, I can only hope my future wife finds me so handsome" he said,

The vassals all complemented their young lord and praised this wedding day thanking the gods for the good luck of the weather,

Oscar chuckled along, he would have laughed more if he were in a better mood, nerves mostly. He made his way through the castle eager to speak with her before they met in the sept. He stopped at her door and knocked gently on the dark wooded door,

The door opened to a handmaiden in pale yellow,

he tipped his head to the girl and smiled politely at the handmaiden. "Is my bride here?" he asked the handmaiden,

"Yes of course my lord." She bowed opening the door wide. Revealing the small river view room he had made up for her. The bed was made and covered in items. And army of handmaidens all in pale yellow assisting the bride.

And there Y/n stood, up on a stool looking in three large mirrors, her ivory wedding gown still not fully laced at the back. The gown is embroidered with silver and black shimmering thread with scenes of stags in woods and fish in rivers the two sigil animals of Baratheon and Tully. Her long hair was pulled into two long braids with red and blue ribbons in one and yellow in the other

Oscar stood in the door frame, speechless for a few seconds. completely frozen in place. he had hoped to get a glance at her before the ceremony but the sight of her in her wedding gown took him by surprise. The beauty of the woman in a gown of his colours and with her hair done up so beautifully made him feel a flutter in his chest and a warmness in his face, he finally gained back some control of his body and stepped in the room.

The handmaidens noticed him instantly and all backed away a little to give him space with his future bride,

Y/n saw him and quickly turned to face him so he didn't see the back of her dress, "My lord Tully." She curtsied

he smiled, he couldn't help but look her up and down. his blue eyes scanning over her appearance. She looked perfect. his future wife. so nervous yet so beautiful in her gown and with her braided hair, he approached her gently took her hand, and kissed the back of her hand, "you look absolutely stunning"

she blushed hard, "Thank you, my lord… You look very handsome."

he gently squeezed her hand "I'm glad you think so, my dear. I'm happy to see that you look excited to marry today, or are you nervous?"

"Oh- very excited my lord. So very very excited."

"You don't look like you can wait to say the words, you want us to be married that much do you?"

she sheepishly nodded admitting her excitement

he chuckled and raised a hand to gently tuck a loose strand of her braided hair back behind her ear. his fingers lingering there for a second. he had been nervous himself but now that he was with her, his soon to be wife, he felt excitement and confidence. it felt right "That's a good thing to hear, you can't imagine how eager I am to be your husband"

She smiled "Egar enough your willing to fight over me?" She giggled glancing at his sword,

he chuckled again, "Eager enough to fight for you, and eager enough to protect you with all I have"

"Thank you, for such dedication my lord…"

he smiled and moved a little closer. "your welcome, love. I would give my life and fight every man in Westeros for you"

She blushed hard squeezing his hand back. "I uhh I should finish with my gown.."

"of course, of course. I don't want to keep you from it. I'll leave you to finish. I will… I'll see you at the ceremony my love"

"Or!" She quickly spoke up "or perhaps… If you wouldn't mind… You could finish lacing it for me"

his heart skipped a beat, his eyes widened in surprise. she wanted HIM to finish the lacing on her gown? the mere thought and her request made his heart beat faster. the image of him being the one to put her in her wedding gown made him feel strangely excited "I…. I…" he stuttered. dumbfounded that she would ask that of him. he was speechless for a moment

"I uhh… You do not need to but as you are here. And… As you will be the one to undo it this evening."

"I will gladly lace you up, my dear."

she blushed and turned to face her mirrors her hands at her stomach bracing for the laces to be tightened

he stood right behind her. his body practically pressed against hers. she was so close. so close that he had to stop himself from wrapping his arms around her and holding her against him. his hands shaking slightly as he started to lace up the back of the dress "how tight do you want them..?" he asked quietly. to keep his shaking voice in check

"as tight as you can." She nodded "as tight as you desire my lord." She blushed very aware hef bareback and corset below her gown were on display

he started to lace the back of her gown. his hands working the lace through the eyelets of the fabric and pulling them tight. the more he pulled, the more her body pressed against his

she slowly breathed making sure not to gasp too much even if she wanted to. The tickling feeling of his breath against her bare neck made her blush. Her hands holding each other her mind unable to avoid the thoughts of later tonight

"I'm almost done. almost done, my love" he whispered

she nodded sheepishly

he took a second to enjoy the moment. her body pressed against him. so close. the feeling of her against him yet not being skin to skin. his cheek pressed against the side of hers as he took a deep breath, then he finished lacing her dress.

she let out her breath and She softly rubbed her skin on his and looked at him in her mirror "How do I look my lord?"

he looked into the mirror. the reflection of them together. her pressed against him. her body pressed against his. the gown perfectly fitted on her. she looked so gorgeous, so beautiful, and she was soon going to be his. his wife. his future Lady of Riverrun "You look… You look incredible. stunning. perfect" he whispered in her ear

"Do I look like lady Tully?" She giggled,

"You look exactly like a Lady Tully. the most beautiful Tully bride ever"

"Thank you my lord. You look so very handsome too. A perfect lord. The most handsome groom."

he chuckled and a shiver ran down his spine. "I'm glad you think so, my love. But you're too kind, you are the most beautiful one here. you make me look like a peasant in comparison"

she giggled "of course not. You are my handsome lord husband."

"your handsome lord husband that could barely hold himself back from embracing you and keeping you all to himself. especially now when you look this beautiful"

"not too long to wait my lord… But we should go and get married first should we not?"

"yes, yes of course. I can't wait to make you my wife. I shall see you in the sept?”

“Yes, I shall see you in the sept,”

Oscar nodded and left the room to allow her and her handmaidens to make the final adjustments, and he walked his way to the sept with a slight spring in his sept knowing he knew just how lovely his wife was.

[jaemified]

through the window (21 days) - lee chan

“waiting 21 days isnt so bad if itll always end like this.”

pairing ; lee chan x fem!reader

genre ; fluff but pretty cheesy fluff, strangers to lovers, neighbors to lovers, not a smau but twt profiles are showed

warnings ; swearing, floods, isolation, separation, chans flirty (thats a warning in itself), reader has zero relationship experience

wordcount ; 2.7k

synopsis ; after a long series of floods, youre finally able to meet the boy across the street who had caught your eye throughout the long few weeks.

note - chan isnt an idol but minnie/soyeon are

note 2 - idk what chan is looking at in that pic

read below the cut !

DECEMBER 8, 2023

winter, also known as flood season.

the town where you lived in was already at a low altitude, so the bridge built to cross over the river to the other side of the street always had submerged during this time of year.

the thing that sucked the most about all this, was you were pretty much rained in for however long it takes for the water to drain with absolutely no way out.

so naturally, you all had came prepared.

your roommates minnie and soyeon never minded all the rain as they hated going in to work at the crack of dawn, yet you however, loved what you did. tutoring a kids after school program wasnt half as bad as the average person might think.

but, of course seeing as they were all a bunch of middle school kids, they could be a handful. you decided to listen to your friends and use these next few weeks to relax.

or, what you thought relaxing was.

“come on y/n! dont you wanna make strawberry shortcake with us?” minnie yelled at you over soyeons loud music while you studied over the next lesson plan for your kids.

“maybe later- i really wanna get a head start on these lessons.”

“seriously y/n?” soyeon murmured in slight disgust, “i seriously doubt the first thing those kids want to be thinking about is what they’re gonna do with their math tutor after a free half month.”

you shrugged and took a sip of your coffee before typing in the highlighted notes from the handbook into your computer.

“come on. youre not spending our one free break of the year like this again!” soyeon exclaimed as she snatched the book out of your hands, then closing your laptop before putting them both away in the cabinet under the tv.

“you know i can just get that myself right?”

“no, because i won’t let you.” she replied, locking the door and putting the key in her pocket.

“come on! im passionate about what i do, i dont mind it at all!”

“me and minnie are passionate about writing songs too, but even we know when its good enough to take a break.”

“okay i know i don’t work half as hard as idols do but i still have bills to come by! besides, corporate management demands i have the next lesson plan finalized before the end of the week!”

“corporates a bitch, they gotta be more mindful of how they treat their employees. like how do you be top tutoring company in the country and you still cant manage your employees the way they deserve?” minnie shouted in frustration.

“and dont worry about bills for now, we got it.” soyeon whispered to you.

“minnie- you realize cube is the same way to you guys right? and you work way harder then i do despite not getting the income you deserve.”

“yeah but we manage. we have a contract anyway. i know we’re passionate about what we do but we most certainly are not passionate about who we work for.” soyeon replied for minnie as she couldn’t hear over the sound of the blender (why was she using a blender again?)

you sigh soaking in how much pressure your friends are under at work, realizing you don’t even have it half as bad despite having a pretty shitty boss.

“how bout you find someone worth crossing an ocean for? itll be half as fun for us as itd be for you, since it’s in our contract we aren’t allowed to date.” minnie spoke after the whirring of the kitchen appliances died down.

“how.. we are entirely stranded until however long it takes for this stupid flood to drain.”

“do some stalking on insta. let’s find you like uh.. celebrity crush or ulzzang you can fan girl over or something.”

you scoffed in annoyance and slight disgust with your friends knowing you never really cared for any of that.

you decided to sit down at the bay window by the front door, scrolling through your phone before something outside caught your eye.

there you saw a guy across the way, sitting in his bay window just like you, he who seemingly just finished receiving a lecture from his friends.

you watched as he ran a hand through his fluffy dark brown hair, before he turned your way, your eyes locking.

immediately, it was part of your instinct to nervously turn away.

before slowly looking back, that is.

there you found the beautiful brown haired boy, still looking at you, with a golden smile.

your heart melted (but you thought you were having palpitations) when you saw him look at you so fondly.

what is this feeling?

you slowly raise a hand, and wave to him shyly.

he waved back, before forming a heart with his arms he held over his head.

you laughed quiet enough so your friends couldn’t hear you, but your facial expressions were bright enough so he could be aware he was able to make you laugh.

the boy laughed in response before he seemed to mouth something, but you weren’t the best at reading lips.

you tilted your head in confusion before he jokingly rolled his eyes, and saying it again, but slower.

“cu-tie.” you realized he said, or attempted to say.

“cu-tie?” you sounded out, making sure you understood right.

he nodded before pointing at you, his finger tapping against the glass, “cutie.”

he absolutely reveled in the way you smiled so brightly, the way your cheeks flushed pink and your eyes sparkled with excitement.

you didnt even realize how you were falling for his charms.

before you were even able to say anything back, his friend came up from behind him, attempting to drag him away, yet the guy was still persistent.

you watched how his friend started to get angry, so the guy rolled his eyes and stood up, walking away with his friend down the hall.

but not before waving back at you, blowing a kiss.

you got up from your seat before wrapping your arms around minnie, resting your head on her shoulder while you spared a small glance at whatever soyeon was watching in the living room.

“hmm? what do you need now my child?” she dramatically questioned, as she knew you only got clingy when you needed something.

“whos that guy that lives across the.. on the other side of the bridge? in that dark brown house with the black roof?”

“oh? house 133 right? thats seokmin, minghao, and.. what’s the other ones name? I always forget.. chan! yeah, chan.”

soyeon jumped up in surprise, pausing her show after hearing you pique your interest at a guy for the first time.

“why? you like one of them? which one? minghao? he was pretty well liked for a foreigner. he was in the same exchange program as minnie. ” she excitedly asked.

“w-what? no! i was just asking cause i saw one of them out there earlier.” you unconvincingly lied.

“oh she totally likes minghao.” “not even!”

“sweetheart, we aren’t as dumb as you think we are.” minnie pouted at you while she pulled away to put the cake in the oven.

you huffed in disbelief before going to take a bag of chips from the pantry, walking down to your room to finish the lesson plan. (on the laptop your boss lent you since soyeon took your personal one).

meanwhile, there you left chan, day dreaming about you all day long. he was so curious about you, yet he felt so stupid for crushing on some girl he’d never spoken to before.

not like he even could at this point, you were stuck in the middle of a flood, anyway.

“whats on your mind channie? you seem out of it.” seokmin asked while he blindly stirred the tteokbokki, turning to face the younger boy behind him, sitting at the kitchen island.

“its chan. whens he not out of it?” minghao chuckled, throwing a chip at his cheek, sliding to sit over at the stool next to him as he emerged from his bedroom.

“who lives in that white house on the other side of the bridge? isnt that where soyeon lives? we went to high school together.” chan half-mindedly queried, zoning out as he stared into the marble counters.

“yeah, why?” minghao responded.

“did she move out or something? there was another girl there and it wasnt soyeon or minnie.”

“oh, you mean y/n? she graduated a year before you or something, but at another school. we used to work at the same tea house before she left for that tutoring agency.”

“y/n? sounds vaguely familiar. i think i remember seungkwan mention her being in his class.”

“why are you mentioning her all of a sudden? you never cared for girls.” seokmin teased with a wide smile.

“oh come on. you know he’s quite the flirt.” minghao playfully cooed at chan, dramatically waving his hand back at seokmin.

“you two are insufferable.” he groaned, banging his head against the counter.

you found yourself up at night, scrolling through twitter before you decided to search for the guy you ‘met’ today. minghao, was it?

‘xu minghao’ was what you had entered into the search bar, clicking on the top result.

‘myunghoez’

‘huh.’ you thought to yourself. so it couldnt be him, but seokmin didnt seem to have an account as you searched for his name.

you looked up chans name next, thinking maybe,, that there could be a chance it’s him. his profile picture was technically him, but not, him. but in your defense, how could you tell who was who if chans profile picture was a baby picture?

though you knew youd never hear the end of it from her, you decided to ask soyeon.

“do you have a picture of chan?”

“yeah hold on. its just an old screenshot from an old tweet though.” she mumbled before pulling up her phone to show you.

‘wow.’ you thought to yourself, ‘so this really was the guy i met today.’

before soyeon could ask any questions, you quickly thanked her and ran back to your room before posting a small something in reference to what minnie had said to you earlier.

days, weeks, went by of you and chan interacting through the window despite never seeing each other up close, or ever hearing the others voice.

but despite being isolated from separately, you still had fallen for one another nonetheless.

you loved the way you would feel butterflies in your stomach whenever he made a heart with his hands for you, and he absolutely adored the way you in the end would just make a big sign telling him what you wanted to say when you gave up on trying to get him to read your lips.

of course the flood had its downside, i mean being stuck with the same 2 other people for almost a month definitely takes a toll on you, isolation definitely can get depressing with no way out.

but in the end, it had its upside as well. you were able to meet a great guy despite never technically talking face to face, having only lip reading to communicate (why didn’t you think of social media?). not to mention you were able to put more time into a forgotten passion after all of your energy being used up as a tutor.

marine animals.

you and chan had technically discussed the idea of possibly having a first date when you get out of here, yet you still hadn’t decided where you’d go or what you’d do seeing as you both were pretty passionate about different things.

chan had always loved the stars, you had always loved marine life. but, you decided you would finalize a date night once you both get to meet face to face.

DECEMBER 29

after a long 21 days of disappointment, spending christmas without your family, 3 going on 4 weeks of crazed loneliness, you finally woke up one morning to find the overflowing river, drained, and to its regular level.

you were able to see the bridge once more and though the wood might be rotting, you just couldnt wait to cross it.

you immediately ran down the hall, dressing however best you could, fixing your hair to be as best as it would go, being sure to brush your teeth and pop in a mint before running straight out the door. (and ignoring all of soyeons questions as well as minnies protests)

as you stepped out the front door, you saw chan just leaving his house looking as beautiful as ever.

you ran straight for the bridge, chan catching you before you could slip on a puddle before he picked you up into a big hug.

“you’re just as gorgeous up close as you were through a window.” he whispered as he pulled you close, his hand cradling the back of your head, pulling it to rest against his chest.

“and you’re still just as much of a flirt arent you?” you chuckled before slightly cringing at your attempt to reciprocate the excitement.

you were excited, believe me, just couldn’t express it as well as he could.

“i cant believe it took 21 days to finally be with you.”

“it was worth the wait wasnt it?”

“you’ll always be worth the wait.” chan mumbled against your skin as he pressed a soft kiss into your cheek.

“cant believe you’re real..” you mumbled, leaning further into his touch.

“cant believe i got someone like you to fall for someone like me.”

“chan you’re so cheesy.”

“only for you.” he replied with that stupid grin you grew to love so much.

the two of you later took the time to talk more about life, each other, finally exchange numbers, then eventually decide what you’d do for your first date night.

“see you tomorrow at 12?”

“tomorrow at 12.”

DECEMBER 30

you practically couldn’t sleep as you bubbled in excitement. you picked out a pretty black dress that went nicely with a random pair of white sneakers before heading out on your way while your roommates were out at work.

“lookin as pretty as always.” chan smiled while he opened his car door for you.

“still as handsome as ever arent you?” you jokingly rolled your eyes as he backed out the parking lot.

you two had many common interests, yet what you were most passionate about definitely was pretty parallel to one another.

chan loved the stars, you loved the sea. so, you decided to go to an aquarium (that also included solar system exhibits), grab some food from a cafe you found out you both loved, go for a late drive to the beach, watch the sunset, then stargaze.

call it cliche but it was perfect for you both.

chan wrapped an arm around you as you both stared into the night sky, all the stars displayed beautifully.

he would point at a random star and say it reminded him of you, because it stood out from the rest, distinct, but perfect in his eyes.

he was the sweetest guy ever, perfectly fitting the standard for what’s considered boyfriend material, almost unrealistic, even.

“youre a person worth crossing an ocean for.” you told him more then truthfully, bringing a hand up to softly stroke his cheek.

“out of all the stars in the sky, youre the only one id pick.” he cringed realizing how corny it was. “too cheesy?”

“just enough.” you reassured, before sealing both yours and his lips into a warm and comforting kiss. chan had never felt safer in another’s embrace.

“waiting 21 days isnt so bad if itll always end like this.”

[angelpassing-by]

ᏵꝊ𐌋𐌃𐌄𐌍 𐌔𐌀𐌍𐌃 𐌀𐌍𐌃 ᏵꝊ𐌋𐌃𐌄𐌍 𐌄𐌙𐌄𐌔

Pairing: Jeht x fem!reader Genere: fluff, angst [just a little] Sinopsis: it's the day before your loves goes on a mission with a certain Traveler A/N: I'm screaming, I'm crying, I'm foaming at the mouth. No fics for Jeht?? Now I'm sad. So, I haven't yet completed the whole world quest, but something tells me it will end in heartbreak and I'm SCARED. Sumeru is soo well written i want to scream, aaand Jeht is a lesbian cutie. Obviously I want Jeht for myself, but if I can't have her, please HoYo make Jehtlumi canon.

Marvelous rays of golden sunlight drape over the river's quiet waters, smearing its hue into the tents perched into both of its muddy shores. Lazy spinocrocodiles lay atop of the rocks, their scales glistening of red and ashes. Men and women of the tribe rest too, some beneath the comfort of palm tree shades and others strolling aimlessly. There is a certain tranquility in the air you haven't felt since joining the Tanit, a sort of peace found in the middle of the chaos, the constant uncertainty that dangles over all of your heads.

You can finally see why Jeht likes it here, even though you are both outsiders of some sort; you, more so, being a runaway from Sumeru city. Maybe you are all a big family after all. That thought makes you smile ever so slightly.

Jeht lays at your side, both outside your shared tent, not more than a few scraps of fabric and sturdy wood, with your eyes on the river and, occasionally, on each other. Your lover's golden eyes are as gentle as the setting sun, and so are her lips as she kisses your knuckles.

"Tomorrow I'll set off" she murmurs, still holding your hand between hers.

You know, you've seen the blonde Traveller and her fairy companion, Jeht's precious friend of whom you've heard nothing but honey - sweet praise. Truth be told, those words rarely extend to the flying thing though she quite reminds you of a little sister you once had. You don't really think about those things these days so you shake your thoughts away and bring her hands onto your own mouth, kissing her metal gloved fingers in exchange.

"I know" it's your only response, but on the inside you scream. Why? Aren't I enough for her? That foreigner is surely better, being such a legend. Why is Jeht setting herself up for danger again? Surely she will come home safe, right?

That night you sleep in each other's arms a last time, her body encasing you and her skin, warm and soft, keeping you company throughout the sleepless night. The chilling air pierces through the tent at times and wails as you snuggle closer to Jeht beneath the dusty blanket.

Jeht sometimes mumbles, calling out for something you can't quite make out until the first lights announce the start of another day: "don't... Dad... come... don't go... not there... back". As her words grow in intensity you shake her awake and kiss her good morning while her eyes still try to focus.

After a breakfast made up of dates and Fatteh, you are finally left alone. She fixes a strand of your dark hair behind your ear.

"Don't miss me too much" she murmurs, her forehead against yours.

"I'll just worry sick" Jeht attempts a half smile "be safe."

Now your lips are on her lips and her hands caress the back of your neck with such tenderness that, for a split second, you think you might melt from her touch. That kiss says more than the little words you've managed to spit out. I love you. I know you have to leave, but come back, don't you leave me too. And from her, wait here. Don't risk anything, be safe, be strong for me. I'll come back for you, I promise.

The kiss breaks as a high pitched voice calls for her: "Jeht, we are ready to go!!"; it's the Traveler and her little companion.

You look at her and she looks at you before heading away. She'll come back, you tell yourself but can't help but wonder as every time she ventures away from the tribe.

Is the love of two runaway girls stronger than the desert's deadly embrace?

[purpleqilinwrites]

only to us.

a/n: i went to play genshin for the first time in a while to see what's new, and i just ended up spending three hours walking around liyue with my wife ganyu! (what's new is wriothesley and his nice butt. 10/10.)

fandom: genshin impact

character: ganyu

genre: general / fluff

info: established relationship (can be read as either platonic or romantic); reader is an adeptus who fought in the archon war; this takes place pre-canon timeline

warnings: might not be canon-compliant

synopsis: it was time for new wine and new customs.

word count: 0.9k

part of the "yearning has hold of me" series.

Ganyu

The war was over, and a flurry of long-overdue celebrations brightened up the harbour.

While the people were busy making merry and drinking with the adepti, Ganyu found you among the rocks that formed the Guyun Stone Forest. Perched on one of the highest peaks jutting out against the bright blue of the sky, nestled in the shrubbery and trees that had begun to find a home on the things that were once weapons, you were lying on your back with your eyes closed and face toward the clouds.

The war was over, and it was the first time in a multitude of years that Ganyu had the pleasure – or was it relief? – of finding you in your human form.

"The crowds wore on me," you said, as a means of greeting, your voice echoing in the quiet. You beckoned her over by patting the patch of grass to your right, eyes still closed.

With the urgency that her experience in the past years has ingrained in her bones, Ganyu found herself running for most of the little distance between the two of you. She ran until she came close enough to take up room beside you, settling onto the grass and marvelling when she remembered it had not been there when she saw the Guyun Stone Forest formed.

The war was over, and she felt the need to keep reminding herself.

You rolled onto your side to face her, eyes now open. Ganyu mimicked your actions, shuffling closer and resting her head on a folded arm.

Your eyes burned into her, golden and unblinking, and she thought she might need to remind you, too, that the war was over.

"Rex Lapis was asking for you," she said, instead. "He'd like to share some osmanthus wine with everyone who fought with him."

The grass tickled her cheek as she spoke. A mass of clouds floated aimlessly in the otherwise empty blue expanse above the two of you. She waited for a response, alternating between watching a Geo crystalfly flit about some distance behind your head and watching you.

You kept your eyes fixed on her the entire time.

If it had been anyone else, Ganyu would have floundered under what felt to her like scrutiny. There had always been an intensity about you. It was not foreign to her, having been born and raised among full-blooded adepti and knowing the word would apply easily, believably to any one of them.

Even so, your gaze did not unsettle her the way that the eyes of others would.

"The mortals do make the best osmanthus wine," you said, finally. There was a smile teasing at the corners of your lips, a darting out of the tongue across your bottom lip as you imagined a taste.

She should have brought one of the smaller vessels from the harbour to share with you. There were too many offerings of wine to count at the makeshift shrine to Rex Lapis and the adepti in the camp at the foot of Mount Tianheng. Peacetime was new, and so the two of you could form a new custom of drinking out of the same cup of hammered iron. Perhaps—

You reached over to her and brushed a few stray strands of hair behind her ear, and it brought her out of her thoughts and back to the present with you. Before you could pull your hand away, Ganyu curled her own around the bone of your wrist and put your hand to her cheek.

It was cool to her skin, like the waters of the river in the Guili Plains of her girlhood summers. Familiar and always welcome.

"I found you," she said, echoing the words she spoke to you first, from a time long ago.

The breeze was beginning to pick up speed, ruffling her hair and then yours as it passed. A few amber leaves twirled about you. Your hair fanned out behind you, the breeze having run its fingers through the length of it, longer than it had been in years but still shorter than you were inclined to keep it.

Ganyu would like it very much if you would leave your hair to grow, for her. Selfishly, because she imagined you would be extremely attractive with your hair long. A little less selfishly, because seeing you with a blade in hand to trim your hair as close to your scalp as you could manage was a habit you had cultivated in wartime.

The war was over, and you could afford to live looking forward now that it was behind you.

You hummed, cupping your hand along her jaw, and stroked the pad of your thumb along her chin in tune with a song she did not recognise. "I knew you would find me," you said. "I know you, Xiao Yu. You always do."

Ganyu closed her eyes to better focus on the sound of your voice, on the touch of your hand. It was a folk song you were humming, one of the many that were native to the tribe of sea-dwelling adepti you came from. She could not remember if it was a lullaby, or if it was a hunting song.

The breeze tapered off, and the grass that sat between your body and hers stilled in their frantic dance. Your humming became louder as it filled the air, and this space that crowned the Guyun Stone Forest belonged only to her and to you. This space, where she was more alive than alive has ever been.

It was surely a lullaby, with how her eyes seemed to weigh heavier as her attention to your song began to wane.

[sentientgolfball]

Ghoulette Appreciation: Week 3

For this week I mostly did first ritual but there's a little hint of lazy Sunday in there

Read here or on Ao3

Word Count: 2008

Pairing: Mistshine

Tags: hurt/comfort, Sunny has self-esteem issues, Sunny has lots of feelings about tour

Summary: Sunny is bored out of her mind when the clips of the first ritual begin to blow up her phone

It had been a normal Sunday for Sunshine. She woke up way earlier than she intended to, but to be fair since the pack has been gone she hasn’t been sleeping well. She tried to spend as much time with Aether as she could in the evenings, but with his new assignment to head the nursery on top of his usual duties in the infirmary with Omega, it was difficult. However, she was able to share breakfast with him this morning before he had to leave. Now she sits alone in the den, lying upside down on the couch while a movie plays. 

Even though Sunday meant she had the day off from her duties it was her least favorite day. None of the others had a job that came with a guaranteed day off. Sunshine was a messenger ghoul. This means that when the Clergy isn’t working neither is she and Sunday nobody higher in the church worked. It was reserved as a day of rest to get over hangovers or whatever else may have happened at the previous night’s Black Mass. Hell, even a majority of the Siblings didn’t work Sundays, only those with essential duties like the kitchen staff or the nurses. 

She sighs long and heavy, bored out of her mind. Normally she’d run around the Ministry visiting everyone throughout the day, but with the tour being under way the only ghouls left in the Ministry that she even remotely knew were the old band ghouls. She was friendly with them, sure, but she had no idea how they’d react to her following them around to chat. She knew Ifrit wouldn’t mind, but Zephyr had had a bad flare-up last night. She knew he was still in their shared room helping them with the pain. She really wanted to go visit but something in her told her she wouldn’t be welcome. 

Her ears flicked thinking about what else to do. Her mind drifted to thoughts of Mist. A blush dusted her cheeks as she thought about maybe going to visit her. She’d pack a little lunch to make sure they ate. They would accept it graciously, only giving the tiniest hint of a smile when she thought Sunshine wasn’t looking. She wouldn’t comment on it, but she’d replay the way her shoulders softened and her face loosened when someone did something for her. It made Sunny’s heart flutter. Mist would probably never understand why she did the things she did for them, but that would never stop Sunny from doing them. Deep sea ghouls were solitary. Deep sea ghouls didn’t take mates. Nature can say whatever it wants but Sunshine never bent to its rules. 

She genuinely toyed with the idea of visiting Mist before she remembered what they were doing today. They were spending the day with River, Lake, and Chain, gathering fish from the stream that cut through the Ministry’s forest now that winter fully melted away. She could go see them, she was part water after all, but the significantly stronger fire in her shuddered at the thought. 

She huffed, blowing a stray strand of hair out of her face and sat right side up on the couch. 

That’s when her phone buzzed. 

And buzzed.

And buzzed. 

And buzzed. 

Sunshine picked it up to look at the notifications and immediately she could feel the grin spreading onto her face. Footage of the first ritual was finally being posted. She quickly opened her phone and began to scroll, saving her favorites to show Aether when he came back to the den. 

She giggled at the way Phantom’s balaclava didn't fit properly. 

She loved seeing Aurora show off to the crowd. 

She hummed along to some of the songs in the clips and laughed fondly at Copia’s antics. 

She can feel a tightness in her chest when the footage of the bows starts to get posted. It hurts not being there with her pack. She’s only been on the surface for a little over a year. They’re all she’s known and it settles heavy in her stomach that she’s not with them. She’s so glad Phantom and Aurora get to experience the thrill of the stage, but she’d be lying if she said she wasn’t jealous. She wasn’t bitter. She wasn’t angry. 

It wasn’t fair to be mean to the two new summons, it wasn’t their faults. So she always kept the feelings in. She didn’t know what else to do with them. She kept her head up and a smile on her face and crumbled when no one was looking. 

No one was looking. 

She felt the tears start to gather in her eyes and she let them. She had to get it out now before Aether came back. He’d be worse and Sunshine had to be there for him. She wouldn’t let the big guy fall without someone there, and right now she’s the only one who can even remotely understand the swirl of emotions. 

Then she made the mistake of scrolling. 

She started to see what the humans were saying. Of course, they noticed the changes immediately, Phantom wasn’t exactly Aether-shaped, but that’s all she saw. 

There wasn’t a word about her. 

That tightness started to turn into something else. Something colder that made her stomach churn. 

She started to scroll and reload her apps as fast as she could, still not a word about her. It was all about Aether. 

When she finally found something that mentioned her, she almost wished she hadn’t. Every other post she saw about Aether was full of emotion and almost mourning like he fucking died. But the one post she saw about herself was simple. There was nothing to it. It was simply stating there was also a new ghoulette. Just a simple little fact. 

She closed her phone and threw it onto the coffee table. She buried herself in the oversized hoodie she was wearing and cried. It was Mountain’s hoodie. His scent helped, but she wished he was actually here to tell her the thoughts aren’t true. 

Nobody knew I was gone. 

They didn’t notice. 

They didn’t care. 

Was I really that bad? 

If I had just tried harder. Had just been better. 

I should’ve been better. 

She cried with her whole body, out loud and unashamed. She missed her pack and she wanted them to be right here with her. She missed traveling. She missed the feeling of the lights. She missed goofing off for the humans who screamed for them. 

But they didn’t miss her. 

She sobbed and cried and whined until she gave herself a headache. Until she had nothing left in her. She started to come down from the overwhelming emotions and she knew she’d crash hard if she stayed there alone. Sunshine took a deep, shaky breath and stood from the couch. She didn’t even bother trying to hide the fact she just cried her heart out. 

She wanted to go see Aeth. She needed to go see Aeth. She wobbled a little as she walked to the door to the den, sniffing and wiping her nose. When she opened the door she smacked face first into a solid body. She jumped back, startled by the cold contact. 

“I’m so sorry! I wasn’t—“ 

“Sunshine? Are you well, what happened?” 

She moved the hood out of her face. 

“Mist?” 

She doesn’t know why seeing Mist broke the dam again. All she knows is seeing her deep blue eyes, hearing their low voice say her name, smelling her ice and stormy sea scent pushed her right back over the edge. Another sob wrecked her body. 

“Sunshine what is it?” Mist lays a hand on her shoulder, steadying her. 

When they only get a high-pitched whine as a response, Mist guides Sunny back to the couch. They go to the kitchenette to grab a glass of water, mentally running through the things Ifrit always did for Zephyr. 

She holds the glass out to Sunny, not letting go until she’s sure she has a hold on it. They sit next to her on the couch, turned so that they can face each other. 

“When you’re ready. Start at the beginning.” 

Sunshine takes a long drink from the glass before setting it on the coffee table. She pulls her knees up and under Mountain’s hoodie. 

“Nobody remembers me.”

“Excuse me?” 

“Nobody remembers me. Stuff from the first ritual started to get posted. All the humans missed Aether but nobody missed me.” 

“Why do you say that?” 

“Cause the only stupid post I saw that had anything to do with me was just stating I was gone! There was nothing behind it. I should’ve tried harder to make a better impression. I know I was only there for a year but I didn’t think I was that forgettable.” 

“Who told you you were forgettable?” 

Sunny pauses and glances up at her. She sniffs and stares into the middle distance processing what Mist had said. 

“Huh?” 

“You said you were forgettable. Who told you that?” 

“The humans who like us they haven’t—“ 

“No Sunshine” Mist says putting a hand on her “they did not say that. Unless I am wrong then please feel free to correct me, but no one actually said you were forgettable, did they?” 

Sunny blinks hard, letting a few stray tears fall. 

“No…I guess no one actually did say that.” 

“Humans are strange creatures. They’re not as perceptive as ghouls and spirits. There was a very long time where they believed Dew and I were the same.” 

Sunny sniffs and laughs lightly “You and Dew? You’re the exact opposites of each other.” 

“And yet when he first showed up people thought that he was me. Now the opposite happens. People will see me and think I’m Dew.” 

“That’s silly” she smiles and wipes her eyes. 

“It is isn't it. So don’t take to heart what the humans say. You are not forgettable.” 

Sunshine smiles to herself. She opens her mouth to thank Mist, but right as she does her phone rings. She fumbles with it, startled by the noise. When she answers she’s met with shouting.

“SUNNY! Did you see us? Did you see us? I did everything you told me to do!” 

Aurora’s voice crackles through the speaker. 

“Hey give that back—“

“Hi Sunny baby” Cumulus coos from the other end “Rora wanted to call you when we got on the bus.”

“Yeah?” She smiled “then why am I talking to you huh?” 

Her eyes flick up in time to see Mist leaving, heading down the hall that leads to the retired ghoul rooms. She waves goodbye to her even though Mist’s back is to her. 

“Sunbeam are you okay?” Cirrus’ voice sounds distant. 

“Yeah” Sunny clears her throat and switches what side the phone is on “Yeah I’m okay. Just miss everyone.” 

“We miss you too baby.” 

There’s a rustle on the other end followed by a hiss before Aurora’s voice is back. 

“What did you think?” 

“You looked so regal. Like a little ghoulish princess.” 

“Do you think the humans will like me?” 

Sunny pauses, swallowing the bittersweet lump in her throat. 

“I’m positive they will, little star shine.” 

Sunshine continues talking to the others, laughing about silly things that happened while they’ve been separated. She updates them about any new Ministry gossip and they tell her how Dew was so embarrassed he fell asleep on Phantom the first early morning that he set the ends of his pants on fire. She talks and talks and talks until Aether is shuffling back into the den, sighing with the tension in his muscles as he sits next to her, scooping her up into his lap as she continues the conversation on speaker. 

Mist had stood in the shadows of the hallway. They listened to Sunny speak and laugh completely hidden from sight. They listened until they couldn’t stand the feeling in their chest anymore. They slipped into Ifrit and Zephyr’s room without a sound.

[slushie5544]

Chapter 4 of a Dooenella Story: A Tale of Nobodies

In the aftermath of another one of Heinz's failed plans, Vanessa and Norm want some answers. So he gives them just that in the only way he knows how. A late-night storytime! However, they aren't the only family up late needing answers.

Word Count: 5.1 k

**Disclaimer A/N, I don't know German and used Google translate for phrases at the end and they'll be marked with * and the end will have the translations to them! If there are any mixups or misspells please let me know! Alright, enjoy the chapter, and much love to you all thanks for your patience!

“..and then he just left me here!! Can you believe that guy!?”  

It had only been a minute after Perry had left when a wooden ladder unfolded magically to the floor from the hidden balcony just behind the fireplace, above his bedroom. While descending the steps Vanessa pointed her wand at certain objects without looking to start cleaning the mess. The dark ombre tip illuminated softly as clouds of sparkling glitter emitted from it and trailed around the small living room lifting toppled chairs while retrieving a broom and dustpan that came to life to sweep any remains of glass. While Heinz continued to rant to her about the interaction the teenager opened their backdoor to let in Norm who ducked into the home with a smile already handling two buckets of water.

“Isn’t that what he did last time, and all of the other times he’s thwarted your plans? Honestly, I don't know why you always put up with him.”

“Are we talking about Paladin Perry and how Mr. Doof’s plans ultimately failed again?”

While the two walked up to him, Heinz tried to tilt his head but was pulled back to the ground with a groan, he opted to lift his right arm with a quirked eyebrow.

“What’s that supposed to mean? You say like I want to be constantly beaten up and thrown around like a ragdoll while my inventions get blown up! Do you know how difficult this is going to be to get out of my clothes? I just did my laundry the other day too-”

Vanessa rolled her eyes and started using a wet cloth to help the man off the floor, Norm was on the other side already doing his best to free Heinz’s leg from the ground. “What I mean is despite how clear you make it that you don’t allow trespassers and usually-albeit accidentally” she grumbled, “scare most citizens from venturing too far. With Sir Perry, you allow him to come all the way to our- I mean your home! You won’t even let me turn him into a small critter..”

The alchemist waved his hand at the girl while splashing a handful of water over his head making him cringe from the freezing river water. “That’s because one, he’s not here for you, and two he’s also a very special case that I can’t just tell to go away, ugh..-! ! Norm, will you help get this muck out of my hair?”

“Of course, Mr. Doof!”

While the large boy made his way up to work on his guardian's hair, Vanessa crossed her arms and stood up to grab a nearby comb. “I don’t understand. You don’t want us to get involved with one single person just because he’s special? What, do you have a crush on him or something?”

A loud choking noise was heard from behind her when she finally found the wooden comb that, the young witch turned around and pursed her lips to keep her chuckle at bay.

“W-W-WHAT!?”  Despite still being stuck on the floor, Heinz tried to shake his head with wide eyes. She didn’t miss how red his face became and the sputter between words as he ranted. “What kind of question is that!? Pshhh, like someone of my intellect, would ever have s-s-something as childish as a ‘crush!’ Are you hearing yourself!? Me!? Having a crush!? That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard! And by ridiculous I mean COMPLETELY ridiculous and- owowow!”

The man’s shouts were interrupted as Norm’s entangled fingers snagged a couple of knots closer to his scalp, accidentally yanking out a few strands in the process.

“Sorry Mr. Doof, this would be easier if you did not move around so much, but I think you’re right; crushing is so silly!” Heinz smirked, folding his arms and side glancing at Vanessa who rolled her eyes and switched spots with the cycloops. However, the smug look was wiped away by the giant’s next comment, “Besides, there is no way you could crush someone like Mr. Perry, if anything he’d be the one crushing you, perhaps if you let me I could crush him for you!”

“That's not-... You know what? I’m not even going to feed into this petty conversation!  Let me just put it this way; it’s a complicated situation and frankly, I don’t want either of you to be caught in the middle of it all.”- It’s just safer this way. He thought to himself hoping that would be the end of it.

However unlike Norm who had already switched his focus to rearranging the remaining furniture; Vanessa on the other hand was much more stubborn. “Doof, I’m a rouge witch who got run out by the village after a single misunderstanding, Norm is a cyclops that a human saved and raised by himself! And you’re a scientist who’s lived half his life in parts that no one would dare set foot in. Everything about our lives is complicated!” He didn’t respond for a change, giving the teenager a second to sigh and continue. “I know you want to keep us safe, but how do you expect to keep us safe if we don’t even know who or what we’re hiding from?”

Heinz twiddled his thumbs in thought while the last bits of goop were removed from his hair. thumbs. Admittedly, Vanessa was right, she would be turning 18 in the coming year and the young woman was always adamant about wanting to be on her own, and they technically had a deal that once she became an adult she didn’t have to stay with him if she so chose. Not to mention Norm was becoming a lot harder to hide in plain sight and it was only a matter of time until he was seen. For crying out loud, the boy was already over eight feet tall, going on nine (269 cm)- it was only a matter of time before word spread about him. Though there wasn’t a shred of doubt in his mind that the two could defend themselves, they had no idea what they were up against. In hindsight, he should’ve seen this coming eventually, he just never could come up with the right words for it.

“Er, listen.. it’s a long story and it’s starting to get late! Besides, when have you two ever wanted to hear about my ‘never-ending monologues’?”

Vanessa raised a brow and crossed her arms at the man sitting up. “And since when has any of that ever stopped you before?”

He hated it when she had a point. He’d given a multitude of monologues of his woes and need for vengeance. Most of which he shared with them were ridiculous schemes over petty inconveniences. Like the time he created a vacuum-like machine (he called it the ‘acorn’ot-inator’) to get rid of all acorns in the kingdom after claiming a pack of squirrels were repeatedly throwing the small nuts at him on purpose. Nevertheless, some stories about his family had accidentally slipped through the cracks, and though they were spared the grim details, Norm and Vanessa were at least aware of his disdain towards gnomes and weariness to thunderstorms.

However, to his surprise, instead of insulting or judging his apprehension for something considered ‘childish’. They understood him. Vanessa was right if there was anyone who knew what it was like to have a life full of disarray and completely flipped on a dime, it was them. With a defeated sigh Heinz stood up before helping the teen to her feet.

“You want a story? You’re gonna get a story! Norm, move the table out of the way so you two can sit wherever, and Vanessa could you get some more firewood from outside? I’ll go ahead and boil some hot tea for us, I’ve got your favorites~!”

It wasn’t long before the living space was rearranged so Vanessa could fit her cot in front of the crackling fireplace, with a cup of peppermint tea levitating nearby. Norm got comfortable sitting against the stone mantle and held a pot of chamomile lavender tea wrapped in a towel to keep it from burning the giant’s hands. On the opposite end of the chimney, Heinz rocked slightly in his chair while sipping his lemon balm before setting it down near the fire to keep it warm. On his lap was a large green hardback book with both covers blank aside from the large words written on its spine. The title was in a language they couldn’t decipher, but were familiar with when they peeked at some of Heinz’s notes. After adjusting his reading glasses Heinz flipped through a few pages then looked up at the others.

“Alright, is everyone comfortable?“

“Yeah, sure.. You know you didn’t have to go out of your way to do all thi-”

“I’m the most comfortable I have ever been Mr. Doof!”. Norm explained and slurped his tea with a satisfied hum, ”Thank you, this is the best tea I’ve ever had!” 

Vanessa took another sip of her tea, while Norm was usually more vocal about his praises and typically let it be known if he liked or didn’t like something. However, when it came to the scientist’s teas she was impressed with how good they were, there was always a special little touch to them that made the flavor perfect.

“Er.. Yeah, I mean… Thanks, Doof, you outdid yourself this time..”

“Aww, well thank you! Y’know my secret ingredient is love!”

“Ugh, eww! I take everything I just said and thought!”

“Whhaat!? I did! I use ‘Lot. Of. Vanilla. Extract.’ Ha!! wait you thought abo-”

“Mr. Doof, are we going to get to the story?”

“O-Oh right, ahem…-”

~~

-Once upon a time, long ago in a faraway land..”

~~

“Haven’t we heard this before? Aren’t the fairytale intros just a bit cliche?”Vanessa shrugged, but Heinz shook his head and made an exaggerated, copied gesture with his shoulders.

“I tried to warn you..Besides, who’s the one telling the story here?” 

“If it helps, I quite enjoy your stories no matter how they are told!”

Finally, clearing his throat Heinz started where he had left off..-

~~

“Long ago there was a ragtag group of nobodies plagued with misfortune. No matter where they stayed something disastrous followed them before they could even settle and..-”

~~

“-and then they were chased out by raging mobs with torches to find someplace else to stay until they found a small town that rhymes with ‘Same-ville’. Pretty sure we’ve already heard this story.”

Heinz only used his eyes to look up from the pages. “Yeah that’s fair, but this is going to be a little different and instead I’m going to tell you how these misfits sneaked under the noses of an entire village and became the first Nobel Nobodies...”

Before Vanessa could get another word, Norm put his index to his lips and gestured a hush to the teen, “Vanessa, please I would like to hear how the band of misfits got sick from Ms. Fortune!” 

~~

“Days turned into weeks which turned into months as the small group scoured for a place to call home. They traveled from the brutally cold peaks of mountains to the driest, heated deserts known in the land. However, while traversing through an unknown dark dark forest a terrible lightning storm forced the group to seek shelter in a cave that barely fit them together. The storm raged on for what felt like days and with a child on the way, the appointed leader took it upon himself to find civilization for them and get help..”

~~

Heinz trailed off in his story as their rescue was mostly a blur. He had come down with an awful fever while they were trapped in that storm which distorted the time frame between his father leaving and when he came back with a flock of villagers. While he swore it had been almost a couple of days, his parents were adamant that it had only been a few hours. Honestly, he was amazed the man even came to start with. A shiver went down his spine as vague memories of those nights flashed in his mind, but he shook his head and flipped through a couple of pages in his book.

~~

“A-Anyways! They were saved and given a home in a small, welcoming village completely hidden away in the center of the mysterious forest; it wasn’t even on any maps to date. The town was merely founded as a small group of families had become lost just as they did and while efforts to escape had been made; the people were comfortable and happy, so they had no reason to leave and were more than willing to let in others who lost their way. It was such a tight-knit community that they didn’t even have a leader. Believing this as a sign of their luck taking a turn, the ragtag team finally settled and awaited eagerly to welcome a new face to their official home. However, one person was especially excited as they concocted a plan to change everything for their group and the entire village foreverrr..”

~~

To create a more dramatic effect, Heinz deepened his typically high-pitched voice into a raspy drawl while wiggling his fingers in the air, the wooden digits clacking against one another to emphasize the effect.

Norm had moved to sit on the floor with his arms folded on the warm mantle to rest his head while his eye was transfixed on the surface. However, despite his attention appearing to be on the stone patterns as he traced between the concrete crevices, his head turned up to the scientist when he didn’t immediately continue his story. Vanessa on the other hand, seemingly uninterested in the tale was no longer focusing her magic levitating her tea, and instead held it in her hands while taking another sip.

“I’m guessing this is when all the dumb rumors started going around? How does one person scare an entire village with lies that don’t make sense? After being chased around my whole life the one time I defend myself suddenly my entire face is plastered everywhere that I’m some sort of wicked witch! And Norm doesn’t even like eating meat, then suddenly because of one accidental spotting he’s labeled as a..” Vanessa trailed off biting her tongue at what she almost said.

“Man-eating monster.”

Heinz and Vanessa whipped their heads to Norm who was readjusted with his back against the stone surface and legs brought up to his chest. While most of his face was hidden behind his knees, his eyes just barely peaked above them to stare at the wooden floor. One of his hands latched around his knees, and the other rubbed circles on his clasped fist.

“I know what they think of me; a big, scary, dumb mons-”

“Ah, ah, ah! Norm, it’s alright, remember what I told you before?”

Two pairs of arms gently rested on his forearms which eased his thoughts briefly, but Norm didn’t look up from the floor as he responded. “That they were doom-coughs for thinking raspberry  juice looks like blood?” 

“Er.. Ok yeah, that. And to remember you are many things, Norm, but a monster is far from it. Trust me I would know..”

“But you’re not a monster, Mr Doof?!”

“That’s true, but I’ve been around a couple of them in my lifetime to know when I see one. If there is one thing I want you to remember it’s that you’re not a monster, got it?”

The boy nodded and started to raise his head and looked over at Vanessa who stood up slightly to get to Norm’s sitting level.. "I’m sorry Norm, I shouldn’t have brought that up.. I just.. I just don’t understand that a single guy can come up with such.. such.. stupid lies and everyone just believed him?”

“I-it’s alright Vanessa, I understand how upset you are, I don’t get it either..”

Heinz swallowed a small gulp with eyes now focused on his wooden hands while bending and unclenching the knuckles.

“When people are down low on their luck and are desperate for a change, some will do unthinkable things just to prove a point.” The kids looked down at him with equally concerned and confused expressions. Not looking up, Heinz took a deep breath and continued with a small scoff, “Tch, you won’t believe some of the lies people will believe when they’re in a state of panic. You could tell them you were sent from some made-up land to check on nearby lands and protect them from creatures attacking other villages..”

Vanessa sat next to Norm as they listened to the man’s uncharacteristically quiet tone.

“Next thing you know you’re seen as a hero because you saved a young boy from a terrible beast outside your home..” A faint ghost pain went down his left arm, but he tried to rub away the spell and continued  “Then word goes around of missing livestock because of creatures in the woods which raised more concern for everyone, however, when family members start to go missing lies and accusations spread like wildfire until a rift is formed between everyone. So when the courageous hero of the town not only saves but supposedly risked his life trying to save those he couldn’t, it's easy to see why people believed him so much. That is.. Until word started spreading about him and his past. Something had to be done. Little did he realize how much would change from that decision..” 

“What did he do?”

Finally, Heinz looked up to see Vanessa and Norm watching him intently waiting for him to continue instead, his words fell short. He tried attempting to gulp back the lump in his throat but that only caused a burning sensation to creep its way up. It was like smoke building up in his lungs and he couldn’t breathe. Instead, he shook his head and clutched his right arm instinctively to soothe the phantom pain that radiated from the limb that wasn’t even there. It was just.. Wood.

“He.. He did something only a true monster could do..”

Neither Norm nor Vanessa said anything as they looked at one another briefly then scooted over so they were on either side of Heinz. The giant loomed over the older man who sighed and leaned back against the boy’s side. Vanessa followed suit and used his legs as support next to the alchemist.

“I’m sorry, you had to go through that. You don’t have to tell us, but I think I understand..”

You don’t even know the half of it.--Heinz thought to himself, but he gave a partial smile when she nudged his arm slightly,

“You never explained how that Perry guy is involved in all of this though?”

Heinz let out a hard sigh as he rubbed the back of his neck, “Er.. Haven’t you guys had enough of my stories tonight?” both of them shook their heads, “Well I guess if you’re to cross his path eventually you ought to know who he is. His horse dawns the royal sigil which means the King hand-picked that horse to be part of his entourage. I’m honestly shocked that he even let someone borrow something of his, especially for a menial task to stop me. A-A-Anyways! Long story short Perry the Paladin works for the king and queen which means he can’t be trusted, but if this is their way of ‘maintaining the creatures of the woods’ then so be it..”

“But you talk to him and tell him your life story every other day.” Norm piped in as a matter of fact.

“Yeah well.. Sometimes I enjoy telling stories without being interrupted every other sentence..”

“I thought you enjoyed our constructive criticism,” Vanessa smirked and gave the scientist another playful jab to his side while getting up and lending out a hand to help him up.

“What part of ‘this is so lame’ is constructive?!”

Heinz took her hand and got up with a small thanks then dusted himself off. Just as Vanessa was going to get another remark, a large pair of arms wrapped around the two of them and squeezed them close into a hug. Heinz just managed to slip one arm from under Norm’s while his entire other side was squished against his broad chest. In the other grasp, Vanessa rolled her eyes but was betrayed by a half-smile as she was squashed under the giant’s grip. 

“I love all of your stories Mr. Doof and you always give the best commentary Vanessa! I hope we can have another family storytime again! Maybe next time I can come up with a story for you two to comment on while building criticism!”

Norm swayed back and forth as he went on about how excited he the stories he would tell while Vanessa pleaded for him to stop moving so fast. He wasn’t paying attention anymore.--Family? Is that what they are?

“NORM SO HELP ME, IF YOU DON’T.. Great divinity.. STOP SPINNING ME I AM GOING TO.. eugh.. VOMIT ON Y-AHH..!”

Just like that the two were released and dropped on the floor with groans as the world was still spinning. Norm on the other hand was covering his ears.

“Mr. Doof!! She’s making those noises on purpose again! You know I don’t like gagging sounds!”

“And I don’t like being spun in the air back and forth!”

“Then stop being so small Vanessa!”

“What is that sup-..”

Maybe they were like a family,-- Heinz smirked as he picked up the discarded tea cups and the kettle to soak while the kids bickered in the background. He looked out the window above the sink and saw the moon peeking from the thin blanket of clouds. A deep exhale relaxed his shoulders as Heinz finally felt content now that he had gotten all of that off his chest. Yet, he felt a pang of something missing, like he just finished a puzzle he had been working so hard to construct, yet it just didn’t look right. No matter what angle he looked at it from, something didn’t sit right with him.

Shaking his head, Heinz looked back at the two already getting ready for bed with Norm on the ground near the still-burning fire using a large blanket that was made of four different colored sheets sewn together. Vanessa had already moved her bed back into the upstairs loft and was getting a few extra logs for Norm’s fire before scratching his head and telling him goodnight. She waved to Heinz next who reciprocated the gesture.

“Gute nacht, Vanessa!" Sleep well and don’t let the bedbugs bite!” She rolled her eyes, but he only doubled down, “I’m serious! Those nasty things are a pain to get rid of!”

“Yeah, I know.. Good night to you too D-..” She paused for a second once she stepped onto her ladder. “Good night Doof!” With that, Vanessa sprinted up to her room and summoned her ladder to fold backup before the hatch was shut.

Yawning, Heinz stretched his back and knelt to Norm’s level. “Is it warm enough?” the boy gave a nod and was already closing his eye. ”Alright, Gute nacht, Norm..”

“Mr. Doof?”

“Hmm?”

“Will people ever learn the truth?”

Heinz could feel that lump in his throat starting to form, but he cleared his throat and ruffled the giant’s hair. “A wall of lies always has its cracks. Just takes time for it all to crumble, but I promise I’ll do all I can to ensure everything comes to light.” His eyes looked up to the window and noticed the clouds had been swept away, letting in the moon’s rays. -One way or another, I swear it.

The moon’s soft light could be seen across the land as everyone in the small village of Danville tuckered in for the night, even from the tall, arched windows of the Castle of Shmirtz. However, the illumination was barely seen by those clambering through the grand halls as they were too preoccupied with their task at hand, pleasing the prince.

“Eugh, that won’t do. Nope, that’s a bore. That’s just insulting, start it all over again.” All three artists looked defeated at the paintings they had rushed together while trying to walk alongside him as he requested. “Chop chop people! And where are those canapés I had asked for?”

“Sorry, your majesty! H-here you go!”

Not wasting a second, the brunette took the dish and popped a few hors-d'oeuvres into his mouth with a satisfied hum then continued with his long strides down the hall. His entourage of servants did their best to keep up, especially an older gentleman trying to maneuver around the prince to get accurate measurements, from his shoe size to his waist and the width between his shoulders. Even his head was attempted to be measured despite how much the young man kept moving to talk to others with no regard.

“And my ice sculpture? My birthday party is this weekend it’s not even started?”

A younger man finally caught up, running backward to speak up, his gloved hands rubbed together awkwardly as he tried to explain. “Er.. W-Well your Highness.. If we create it now..-”

Just as he was mid-bite into another canapé the prince stopped dead in his tracks, with everyone around him freezing with a collective gasp.

“Huh, that’s odd, I don’t recall asking for suggestions. I said I want my ice sculpture.”

“B-But..”

“Ah buh, buh, buh! Ice. Sculpture. Now. Or do I need to call..”

“ROGER!”

Like prey being spotted by a wolf, the servants scurried away as their king slammed open a door and his voice boomed down the hall. With unkempt eyebrows scrunched together, it was hard to know if he was genuinely glaring or merely squinting from afar; either way, Roger was unbothered. Rather, he started walking towards the king while finishing his snacks.

“Oh, Father-.. mmph-! There you are! You would not believe..- mhmm-! how difficult it has been to plan this party! None of them even knew the difference between phthalo green and dark gre-!”

“Enough!”

Roger bit his lip closed and raised the tray hesitantly, offering the last canapé to the sneering man who didn’t move an inch.

“Hors-d'oeuvre?”

“This is not some **Geburtstagsfeier! This is for you to find proper **Gattin!”

With a roll of his eyes, Roger took the last cracker from the tray and was about to pop it into his mouth, “This again? Please, who wouldn’t want to marry this? It’s not that big of a de- Hey!” just as he was about to bite into his snack, it was swiftly smacked out of his hand.

“Enough! Roger, you’ve  grown comfortable, **Als ich in deinem Alter war-!”

Still unbothered, the prince checked his hands for any slight markings from the slap then groaned rolling his wrist. “Yes, I know, when you were my age you already owned land and had started a family; you’ve told me a million times already!”

“If that is so, then you should also recall why it is so important, **du Schwachkopf!”

“Klaus! I know I did not hear you call my boy an idiot!”

Both men looked over the king’s shoulder with polar reactions to the short, but plump woman storming up to them.

“Ah, Scheiße..”

“Mummy! How wonderful it is to see you!”

Pushing past his father, the grown man ran to his mom with arms out for a hug then exchanged pecks on the cheek.

“Don’t mind Father, he’s still cranky about me inviting so many people to the party this weekend!”

“I SAID TO INVITE BACHELORETTES NOT NEARLY THE ENTIRE VILLAGE!!”

“KLAUSE! Do not raise your voice at my baby!”

“**Mein Gott, er ist sechsunddreißig Jahre alt! How else can I ensure the Shmirtz title continues after I die if he can’t even marry a woman at his age?! I was half his age when we eloped and..-!”

“Here we go again..”

All three family members went back and forth with each other for a solid five minutes until the eldest finally got to his last straw of little patience.

“**GENUG!!” Both prince and queen piped down with matching scowls, to which he responded with his own. “Do I need to remind you why this needs to happen?” Neither of them responded which only made the king groan and rub his temples with another curse under his breath. “Citizens are starting to raise questions again. I’m still trying to get behind who, but there is an infestation of rats among us.”

“Eughh, an infestation, don’t we have someone to care of it?!”

“**Nicht so..-” Klause took a slight breath through his nose before fighting back another slew of words, “**Verkleidete Spione, I’ve been hearing about more activity from the woods, but then a day or two later, poof! Like nothing happened!”

Roger raised a brow and tilted his head, “So because some silly stories from the woods are coming and going suddenly there’s a spy amongst us? I don’t quite understand the issue and why this involved my birthday pa-”

“It means somebody is trying to ruin everything I worked so hard to create! Perhaps you were too young, but you can see what this will lead to if it gets out of hand.”

With an extended finger, the elder continued to glare down at his son who turned to look out the window that pointed to the northern part of the woods that partially intersected their courtyard. However, unlike the surrounding green shrubbery that walled the village, the foliage of the trees on the outskirts of the castle’s garden was mostly barren, with only some having dried discolored leaves; it only got worse from there. Just past the decaying trees were charred remains of the forest that started it all. Tall black trunks lurked in the distance as burnt spindly arms twitched in the wind, taunting them as a reminder.

“If we announce your marriage it will be the biggest thing in town and give me enough time to find out what is truly happening..”

Roger scanned over the land briefly then cocked his head slightly to the right and saw a puff of smoke coming from the woods.

“Actually, there won’t be a need for all this, I’ve got an idea.”

“Oh this will be rich.”

“Klause, hush! What is it, sweetie?”

“Hmph, well for starters, I think it's about time I owe my dear brother a little visit, don’t you think?”

Zoo-We-Mama! I did not think it was going to take me that long to get this out, but dear goodness writing dialogue is not my favorite, but I do hope this does some service right!

Translations: Gute nacht- Good night Geburtstagsfeier- Birthday Party Gattin- Wife Als ich in deinem Alter war- When I was your age du Schwachkopf- You idiot (I was going for nit-wit in this context) Mein Gott, er ist sechsunddreißig Jahre alt- My god, he is thirty-six years old! GENUG- ENOUGH! Nicht so- Not that kind of..- Verkleidete Spione- Spies in disguise

< Part 3 Part 5 >

[luckyrave]

Avatar The Last Airbender Episode 16 Highlights: The Deserter

Aang, Katara, and Sokka found themselves in a fire festival where the airbender had accidentally revealed himself in front of the crowd and especially the soldiers in the vicinity that drew more attention, but a strange person by the name of Chey came to their aide so that they could escape. Through this Fire native, Aang learned about a deserter named Jeong Jeong who fled from The Army a long time ago, and that proposition had him stoked because it meant he found someone who could teach him firebending.

The old Firebender Master wasn't exactly at the news of Aang's arrival at the camp, but also because he knew the boy wasn't ready. No mastery of Waterbending which was meant for cooling, or the essence of mastering Earthbending which meant steady and stable. Firebending was a different matter because it could spread and destroy everything, and further claimed that Aang still wasn't ready due to these basic understanding. What really shifted his stance was a vision of Roku who appeared before Jeong Jeong with a claim that he mastered the elements over many life times ago and that he must do so once again without an ounce of hesitation.

The next day, Aang's firebending training began with a simple steady method by the act of breath as that is what channeled the essence of firebendng, and left the airbender rather annoyed because he wanted to learn true firebending. It also didn't help that Aang spent many hours on the top of the rock with just squats and slowly breathing which led him to blow up in front of Jeong Jeong out impatience to learn what he wanted.

A notion that only angered The Old Firebending Master of Aang's remark because without proper control and lack of discipline in one's self there would only be a path of destruction with fire. He shared a brief story to him of a pupil from many years ago that showcased similar sense of impatience and little to no discipline that Aang showcased up to that point. Once that finally sank in for the young Avatar did he really understand Jeong Jeong's words and that he was ready to learn the master's way.

Aang became super enthusiastic about the true training Jeong Jeong had given up despite that i started with a simple leaf. The purpose was to avoid the edges from being burned which had been a case that Aang had been lucky to prevent when a strand of fire in the palm of his hands. Katara became concerned about the notion because of any potential burns, and shortly from there Aang accidentally inflicted burns to her hands which prompted the waterbender to run in pain.

Aang tried his best to apologize before being assualted by Sokka for the burns that Katara had gotten, and even more so Jeong Jeong being disappointed by Aang's lack of restraint on the fire. The bright side of the spectrum was that Katara found a way to heal herself through waterbending in the river where she placed her hand to ease the pain of her burns away until they completely fades as a result of her new ability. Jeong Jeong couldn't help but wish to have been free from the curse and wished to been a waterbender instead, but Katara also tells him that he had a gift that even she could never have with each aspect of bending being unique in it's own way.

Not long after this exchange did The Admiral and his man located the camp where Aang,Katara, and Sokka had been the whole time, but in a turn of events it was revealed that Zhao had been the student Jeong Jeong referred to this entire time. The old master and student couldn't believe the situation they had been under and how low Jeong had fallen compared to where he was once revered. The Firebending Master on the other hand wasn't pleased to have encountered his former student again and even more so pointed out that the teachings had still never gone through to him all these years later.

While all the commotion had taken place out side, Aang left himself in Jeong Jeong's hut where he reflected upon his actions from firebending and vowed to never due so again. A saying that he mentioned to Katara without looking at her in shame after her hands were accidentally burned, but she had been able to restore his spirit after being told of her injuries being healed through waterbending.

Finally, when approached at the shore before Aang and his former student Zhao in midst of the combat did Jeong Jeong gave the airbender a quick wink before he and his men fled into he woods. That only led to a confrontation between the two pupils of The Firebending Master which Aang had taken full advantage of the situaton thanks to Zhao's impatience. Not a single ounce of bending was used by Aang's behalf, but he had pointed out to The Admiral of the ships that were burned down as a result of his frustration and lack of discipline. Which only left Aang to ride aboard Appa with only a few burns from his fight with Zhao and that was where Katara showcased her new ability to heal Aang's injury as they continued onwards, but that brings an end to my highlights for Avatar The Last Airbender Episode 16. Catch you all again for my highlights on the next episode.

[tinycoded360]

Chapter 20: Final

edit 3/5/25

Sage stretched her tiny arms up as she woke.

The cabin was dark, and the only sounds were the breathing of the giants beside her and the pitter-patter of rain on the cabin roof.

Sage felt annoyed at having woken again in the middle of the night. She found it hard to adjust the human's sleep schedule. *Why couldn’t they sleep more like borrowers during the day? * Sage thought to herself.

Sage shivered, the fire had gone out, and although the cabin had retained much of the warmth, making it warmer than if would be if they were outside, she still felt cold.

She looked up at Mackenzie’s sleeping face. He was sound asleep, his arm wrapped around the cookie tin she was in, holding it close to him as he slept on his side. Sage noticed the human, Jace, wrapping her arm around his middle and cuddling close to him. It reminded her of the cuddle piles she and her siblings and parents would do to conserve warmth at night

*It’s not fair, I wanna be a part of the cuddle pile. * Sage pouted to herself.

With determination, Sage pulled herself out of the cookie tin and started climbing Mackenzie. She knew he worried about crushing her, but if she found a good spot, that probably wouldn’t happen.

Sage noticed Mackenzie sleeping with his winter hat on, probably to conserve warmth. There! That would be perfect. She’d wiggle under his hat and sleep on top of his head. She figured she wouldn’t get crushed there, and it would be nice and warm.

Sage managed to climb her way up to his face. She sat on his cheek, getting distracted by his beard. He must have been tired. Usually, he’d wake by now with her scampering on top of him. She couldn’t blame him, though. The trip in the river was exhausting. She’d be good with never setting foot in water again. She sat on his cheek, patting and playing with the strands of his bread.

Growing bored, she wondered what to do next. On one hand, she could try to climb down the blanket and get to the floor. She was itching to explore the new space. But it would be hard to climb back up, and she didn’t want to get stuck on the ground. She wondered how long they would stay here. They hadn’t stayed in one spot long enough for her to craft a new hook. She wanted to make some climbing gear.

Not wanting to leave the warmth of the giant. She decided to leave exploring for another night.

Besides, the dress she was in was horrible. She was grateful Mackenzie gave her something to wear while her other clothes dried, but it was just a cloth with holes cut into it. She had kept tripping in it. The length is way too long. Mackenzie tied a string around her middle to act as a belt, which helped; she could have done better, given the time and material. Mackenzie had promised they could make her more clothing in the daytime.

Sage climbed the rest of the way up to his hat. She wiggled herself under the brim, and she was finally under his hat. She snuggled into his hair. Although it was stuffy, it was warm, and she felt safe.

******

Sage woke with a start; her bed was moving under her. She clutched the strands of hair around her. She heard a deep grumble, and then the hat she had laid under was removed. Sage huddled down close to Mackenzie’s head, refusing to be dislodged.

“Oh! That’s cute!” Jace remarked, leaning over Mackenzie to look at the tiny girl curled up in the bed of his hair.

Sage squeaked in protest as Mackenzie’s finger and thumb reached up and pinched her sides. He tried to pull her up, but she held tight to his hair.

“Hey, now! Let go; I’m not your jungle gym.” Mackenzie chuckled, amused. He was just relieved he hadn’t crushed her in the night. He was amused that she decided to make his hair her bed, it was the last place he expected her to be. He thought it was more likely she would be on the floor somewhere.

Mackenzie, as gently as he could, removed Sage from the top of his head. He cradled her in the palm of his hand, looking down at her in amusement.

"As cute as that was, we must talk about when to leave. Mathis could be on our tails by now," Jace remarked, her dark eyes flickering with concern and resolve. 

“The weather is bad today; odds are it’s slowing him down. And besides, they don’t know if we’re alive or not. We have some time. Let’s give it a week, five days, I’d say. Let’s gather our strength and stock up on supplies before going out there again.” Mackenzie reasoned.

“We should head to Perseverance Mills; my friend Dr. Atwood will help us,” Jace said.

“We’ll looks like we got a plan.” Mackenzie smiled at Jace, causing her to blush under his gaze.

Day 1:

Mackenzie carefully inspected the meager contents of the cabin's pantry, stacking cans of beans and bags of jerky into a neat pile on the counter. His hands moved methodically, his mind alert to the task: they needed enough supplies to last until they reached Dr. Atwood's haven in Perseverance Mills.

"Will this be enough?" Jace asked, her voice a whisper, as if afraid that speaking too loudly might summon their pursuers.

"I’ll go hunting today; that should add to what we have; we can even make something out of the hides. Maybe I can find other supplies while I’m out," Mackenzie replied, his gaze lingering on the snow-dusted windows. "But we can't afford to stay longer than a week. Weather permitting, we move out."

Jace nodded, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. She had changed back into her dry clothes.

Mackenzie himself had swapped his clothes for his dry ones as well, even though they were travel-worn. It felt nice to be in his own clothes, although they could do with a wash. It still gave a feeling of freshness despite the lack of a proper bath.

Speaking of baths, he turned his attention to the smallest member of their trio. Sage sat on the edge of the table, her tiny form dwarfed by the surrounding objects on the table. Her blond hair was matted with dirt.

Mackenzie had managed to warm up a cup of water over the fireplace, the steam curling into the chilly air. He'd added a drop of soap, creating a few lazy bubbles on the surface.

"Come on, Sage. It's just a little water," he coaxed gently, extending his palm toward her.

Sage scowled, hugging her knees to her chest. "I don't want to," she protested, trembling slightly. "It's scary. And deep."

"It's not deep for you," Mackenzie assured her. "You won't drown in a cup, I promise."

"But I can't swim!" she insisted, her eyes wide.

"You don't need to swim. Just sit and let me clean you up." Mackenzie's tone was patient yet firm. She needed this.

Eventually, her resistance waned, and with a dramatic huff that would've been comical under any other circumstances, she gave one more protest, saying she didn’t want to be undressed.

"Keep your clothes on, then," Mackenzie said with a chuckle. He could wash the makeshift dress he made her along with her. Then he could switch it out with her old dry clothes. He makes a mental note to work on making her change of clothes.

Sage allowed herself to be lowered into the cup. The water came up just past her waist, and she couldn’t help but sigh in relief as the warmth enveloped her tiny body. She clutches Mackenzie’s pinkie finger, still scared of slipping under.

Memories of their time in the river flashed through her mind.

Mackenzie gently begins to wash her along with the fabric of her tiny garments. He was delicate yet thorough, ensuring that every part of her—from the top of her hair down to her belly and her minuscule toes—was gently scrubbed clean.

From across the room, Jace watched the scene unfold, a smile tugging at her lips.

Despite the gravity of their situation, Mackenzie's care for Sage was undeniably endearing. He treated her like she was his own child. Jace still had trouble wrapping her mind around Sage’s existence.

Jace commented, her amusement plain. "You're quite the doting guardian, Mackenzie."

He shrugged, his blue eyes softened as he regarded the tiny girl.

Sage pouted in the soapy water, but her expression softened as the grime washed away.

Mackenzie swaddled Sage in a scrap of clean cloth, the fabric engulfing her tiny frame like a cocoon. She was set down on the wooden table, where she fumbled with the dampness of her attire. She slipped out of her wet clothes and dropped them onto Mackenzie's waiting hand with deft movements.

"Here," he murmured, handing her the dry clothing from the night before. Then, he deposited the tiny, soaked garment near the fireplace, where the gentle heat promised to chase away the last remnants of moisture.

"We'll craft you some new clothes. It won't do to have you in just one outfit." His words were practical.

"Feeling better?" Mackenzie teased, catching her eye with a knowing glance.

"Maybe," she muttered. 

Sage wrestled with her own turmoil. Anger simmered under the surface, a slow burn at Mackenzie's failure to protect her from Mathis. Nightmares haunted her sleep, images of the cruel giant who saw her as nothing more than a trinket to be claimed.

Yet there was also the gnawing fear of dependency. Her people, the borrowers, were fiercely self-reliant, and every moment of kindness from Mackenzie chipped away at the wall she had built around herself. Did he view her as a person, or was she merely a project to him—a pet to be doted upon?

"Hey," Mackenzie said softly, sensing the shift in her mood. He paused, giving her his full attention. "I know it's tough, Sage. But I want you to know you're not alone in this. We're a team, okay?"

"Okay," she whispered back.

*****

Jace watched Will head out into the snow. He turned back once to flash her a smile, then trudged off into the trees.

Jace sighed, a flush creeping into her cheeks. She focused on the little borrower girl watching her with wary brown eyes.

Sage sat cross-legged on the table, her hands folded neatly in her lap. She looked impossibly small, surrounded by the remnants of their meal. "Are you and Will mates?” she said, her voice high-pitched, giving Jace a deceptively innocent smile.

"Oh, no, it's not like that!" Jace said quickly. Her face felt hot enough to fry an egg on. "Will and I are just...friends. We were keeping each other warm, that's all."

Sage frowned, clearly confused.

Jace groaned, dropping her head into her hands. This was not a conversation she had been prepared to have today. Or ever.

Jace jerked her head up at the giggling from the tiny, mouse-sized girl. Jace stared as she realized the tiny girl was teasing her. “Oh, you think you’re funny, do you?”

“I’m just messing with you. But I do know you like him.” Sage smiled up at Jace.

“Oh my God, please don’t mention that to him.”

“Hehe, I could keep quiet, especially if you give me a piece of that chocolate bar.”

“Alright, you drive a hard bargain.” Jace chuckled but retrieved the chocolate bar from their supplies. Jace watched in amusement as Sage’s face lit up in delight.

Jace felt she and the little borrower girl would become fast friends.

Jace watched Sage nibble at the piece of chocolate, still amazed at how small she was.

"Do all borrowers live in the walls of houses?" she asked. Sage shook her head.

"I guess. We live wherever it is safe. I guess we tend to follow you big beans around. But some families live underground, in trees, sometimes in old barns or sheds."

Sage glanced away, she said, voice wavering only slightly. "Mother always said borrowers must be ready to move at any time. We know our homes might not last forever." She gave Jace a brave smile. "At least now I have a new home. Even if you are giant beans."

Jace felt a rush of affection for the tiny girl. She reached out, hesitating, then gently cupped Sage in her hands. "Will and I will keep you safe. I promise."

Sage relaxed into her hands, the tension bleeding from her petite body.

Day 2:

The cabin echoed with the sounds of Mackenzie working the hides into leather, his hands moving with ease. He glanced over at Sage, sitting on the table. The borrower girl was frowning, her delicate fingers fumbling with a piece of rabbit hide that dwarfed her petite form.

"Need some help with that?" Mackenzie offered, his deep voice gentle, trying to mask his concern for her evident frustration.

Sage's frown deepened, and she shook her blond head vehemently, her brown eyes flashing with a fire. "I can do it myself! I know how." she snapped.

Mackenzie held up his hands in surrender, backing off. He knew she liked being able to do things herself, and he noticed her increasing frustration at being coddled.

"Let me know if you change your mind," he said softly, turning back to his own work while keeping an eye on her from the periphery of his vision.

Time passed in a blend of silence and Sage's occasional grunts. Her tiny frame leaned into the task, cutting with an improvised blade. She measured and marked the hide with precision, furrowing her brows in concentration.

Mackenzie couldn’t help but admire her. Despite her struggles, she cut the material into a tiny garment. It was clear she knew what she was doing.

He continued his work in solidarity, respecting her need for independence. She might have been tiny compared to him, a mere four inches to his six-foot frame, but Sage would ask for help if needed.

Jace approached the table, her movements careful not to startle the tiny girl busy with her crafting. With a small clearing of her throat, she placed an assortment of items by Sage's side—a coil of wire, snippets of colorful threads, and a few beads.

"Thought you might like these," Jace said softly, her voice carrying warmth.

Sage paused, her brown eyes lifting from her work to evaluate the offerings. The tools were precious, especially to one of her size, and the gesture did not go unnoticed. "Thank you," she murmured, giving Jace a big smile.

"Welcome," Jace smiled, pushing up her glasses as she watched Sage return to her project. 

Night 3:

Night descended, casting the cabin into shadows save for the flickering glow of the fireplace. Mackenzie and Jace shared a bed, conserving heat against the chill that crept through the wooden walls. Sage lay nestled under Mackenzie's protective hand, a cocoon of warmth and safety.

It was the deep, silent hour of the night when Sage stirred. She wriggled free from the gentle hold, climbing gingerly over the rise and fall of Mackenzie's chest. Her heart raced as she navigated the treacherous terrain between him and Jace.

As she attempted to descend to the floor, Mackenzie's hand moved, curling protectively around her. She flinched, caught in the sleepy gaze of the man who had become her guardian.

"Can't sleep again, huh?" Mackenzie's voice rumbled softly from above her.

Sage glanced up, meeting his concerned blue eyes. He had a way of looking at her that made her feel seen, yet was she more than just a fragile creature to him? The thought gnawed at her, even as she yearned for the safety his presence offered.

"Am I...am I just a pet to you?" she asked, her voice quivering with vulnerability.

"Never," he said firmly, his expression earnest. "I see a person, not a pet."

Her heart skipped, warmed by his words, yet the insecurity lingered. She wanted to believe him, but old fears died hard.

"Try to rest," Mackenzie coaxed, "We've got a big day tomorrow."

"I just..." Her pout was defiant even as she struggled to find words. "I want to explore. Too much energy."

Heaving a sigh, he lifted her clear of the bedding's trap, his breath warm as it swept across her. His hand lowered to the floor, and she scampered away, her form swallowed by the darkness of the cabin.

In the seclusion of shadow, Sage worked on her secret endeavor. A safety pin unfurled into a hook, string meticulously tied to create a lifeline. She tucked the tool into her bag. 

Day 4:

"Can't you just try to take a nap?" Mackenzie coaxed during the day, his brow creasing with concern as he watched her struggle with fatigue.

"Leave me alone!" Sage snapped, her voice sharp as a splinter. "I don't need your help!"

From across the room, Jace couldn't suppress a chuckle at the sight of the minuscule girl standing defiantly against Mackenzie's towering figure. Yet, despite the humor, Jace admired how gently he handled Sage's outbursts and how carefully he cradled her when she finally succumbed to exhaustion.

Mackenzie watched as Sage's chest rose and fell in the rhythm of a troubled sleep.

When Sage woke, Mackenzie finally addressed the elephant—or perhaps the borrower—in the room.

"Sage, we need to talk about—"

"About how you let that giant Mathis take me?" Sage cut him off sharply, her voice quivering with fear and anger.

Mackenzie exhaled, his blue eyes meeting hers steadily. "I am sorry for that, more than you know. But I need you to understand that I won’t just hand you off to someone else. I promise we'll go slow at Perseverance Mills. No one will see you until you're ready—if you ever are."

"And if I want to live like a borrower again?" Her voice was faint, exposing her most profound vulnerability.

"Then you can live in my walls and borrow all you need from me."

For a long moment, Sage was still, her thoughts racing. Then she nestled into his curled fingers; a sigh escaped her.

"Okay," she whispered, allowing herself the comfort of his warmth.

Day 5:

The frosty breath of dawn curled through the trees as Mackenzie shouldered his pack, the weight settling familiarly against his back. The crisp air nipped at the exposed skin on his face. Sage shifted in his chest pocket, snug within and dressed in her new rabbit fur clothes, peeking out to gaze at the vast wilderness before them. She clutched her new bag containing her newly crafted borrowing gear close.

"Ready, little one?" Mackenzie's voice was a gentle rumble; vibrations felt more than heard through the fabric cocooning her.

Sage nodded, her tiny hands clutching the edge of the pocket.

Scanning the horizon with a practiced eye, Jace hoisted her bag and stepped closer. "We should make good time if we keep a steady pace. Weather seems on our side today."

Mackenzie glanced over his shoulder, the corners of his eyes crinkling in silent appreciation for Jace's optimism. He knew the journey ahead would test them. But he felt confident the three of them would do just fine.

Note: This is the final chapter of this story. I hope, dear readers, that you've enjoyed it so far. I plan to write part two later in the year. I'll be planning to work on some other WIPs until then.

[tifa1991]

Hello everyone. This is my first attempt to write something in english which is not my first language. I hope it is not that bad and that you like it if not let me know.

I also would like to try to take requests what should happen between law and the Reader but only sfw stuff.

Information.

Reader was on a Mission and had to travel with a Crew of Bad Pirates. But the ship somehow comes near the Island Punk Hazard and can't manage to reach the entrance. The Captain escapes with some of his crewmates on his rescueboot leaving the Reader to herself. Thanks to her devilfruitpowers she reaches a Point on the Island between the fire and the iceside, not knowing she will meet someone again.

You were sweating like hell after a short walk on the fireside of Punk Hazard. Your long wavy Hair was wet and stuck everywhere. It was hard for you to breath, something you had to be careful with, as your power was one reason for it. Aerofruit parameciatype gave you the ability to control the air and wind. But if you would use to much of it at a time or in a small room it would affect the air around you so much that you would have a hard time breathing. As you walked the small path you finally reached a small Part of the River leaving you perplex by the View of the Landscape. While on your side to view and temperatures were like hell the other side seemed like a winterwonderland ready to freeze evething in its merciless storm of big snowflakes.

"What the fuck" you mumbeld "Akainu and Aokiji really put all to their fight".

Of cause Punk Hazard was not a name you never heard Off, as the vicecaptain and Assassine of your Crew it was in your jobdscription to know such information which could save the crew. Thinking about if it would be safe to fly over the river and maybe get caught by the storm, falling into the icewater and sink like a stone because of your devilfruitpowers or melting to death if you stayed, you choosed the first Option.

A troublesome flight lend you to finally land on the snow. It was soft, beautiful white and surrounded your whole feet.

"Oh crap" you whined with chattering teeth, clinging your Arms around you "this ist way to cold". Looking down on you with your feet in white Sneakers covered in snow, the grey tight dress in soft fabric getting stiff from the coldness extra fast, because of being wet from your sweat, thanks to the hot islandside earlier. Ai you would freeze to death instead of melting if you couldn't find some place to warm up and warm clothes.

You continued your way towards the mountains, hoping the in snowcovered building you saw while flying earlier wasn't just imagination.

It took you quit a while to reach the big steelgate, beeing releaved at first your hopes turned to snowflakes as it wouldn't open. Would've been to easy otherwise.

"It has electricity and a camera" you waved at it "hello? I...i am sor...sorry but i'm shipwrecked and i need Help" raising your voice with effort, feeling the pain of the cold in every bone and nerve you have. Strands of your hair wet and Frozen covered in thick snowflakes.

No answer.

"Okay if you won't let...me...in, i will...cut my way through it" with robotic movements of your arms you reached behind your lower back where on a special belt your two Sais were hold. Not the best to cut steel thinking about the swords Zorro has, you had to try it at least and with the combination of your aeropowers it might work.

As your already blue fingertips reached the handle of your Sais, a heavy Sound appeared and the Gate opend.

You looked to the camera, nooding a thank you and ran into the building.

It wasn't warm in there but much better than being in the storm.

Still your arms wrapped around yourself you followed the metallic hallway till you reached a crossroad. Following the right path you could soon see doors which one on the left side was slightly open.

You knocked.

No Response.

You opend the door completly to enter the room irritated by the big desk, weird containers filled with yellow bubbeling liquid.

"What the hell is this place?"

A 'click' drew your attention behind you as a tall man in a long black coat and a long sword, locked the door behind you.

"Assassine Y/N L/N Vicecaptain of the Spirapirates Bounty of 260Million Berry" the man said in a smokey deep voice, mustering you with his grey eyes.

Your eyes widend with surprise a smirk slightly crossed your blue lips.

"Trafalgar Law. What a lovely surprise. I guess you opend the Gate for me?"you said in an sarcastic tone.

You knew him. You've met him three times already. First time on an Island near the Sabaody Archipel, you, your Captain, Bepo and him got even stuck in a damn icecave. Nexttime was on the Sabaody Archipel itself when you and also your Captain fought with him and Eustess Kid against some Pacefista.

The third time you've just seen him at Marine Ford saving Luffy.

And for that, you felt like you owned him.

You might have been surprise to see him here but were also happy and took a step forward him before you instinctly stopped. Something seemed off.

Law wasn't someone who talked much and was more giving 'don't even start to Talk to me or you end up in slices or without a heart' vibe. Still, you never had a feeling that he would atend to really attack your Crew. He seemed like a man who would only do it if needed.

Coming near you he asked "What are you doing here?"

"Sounds weird, but i got shipwrecked with some other stupid Pirates".

"What about your Crew? Are they here too?"

"No i came alone" your E/C eyes focused on everystep he made till he stopped at your wavering behavior while you didn't seem to notice it, while you gave him a counterquestion.

"What are you doing here?"

"None of your Business".

Jerk.

"Now that you know that i am here", he started "I'm afraid i can't let you go" still mustering you before he locked with your eyes.

"Room".

With eyes wide open you jumped back "Don't you dare" you snatched, a sharp stich following your sudden movement, stopping you from jumping high enough but still far enough to get out of his radius for now.

As you landed your Heart skipped a beat as a smokey voice and warm breath brushed against your neck and ear "Too slow".

Before you could react, Law grabbed you by your arm turning you around, your hands landing on his chest to gain some distance but he was pushing you more against him holding one of your wrists, his eyes focused on your face. The warmth of his coat and hands giving you shivers on your cold Body.

"Your lips and fingers are still blue, your pulse is low, your movements are slow and stiff, wet clothes and hair. Not the best Idea you made today".

"What...the...h...hell are you talking about?" You couldn't even try to fight, feeling the dizziness coming over you nearly knocking you out.

"Keeping you warm and stealing your heart" he sounded so smooth, so relaxing to you while his face turned into a blur and the last word you heard from him meaning trouble.

"Room".

Trafalgar got on one knee, holding your upper body with it and his arm around you, his free hand over your chest "scalpel" he whispered.

Holding your heart now in his hand he placed it safely into the inside of his coat, then he tooked you bridalstyle out of the room.

[wayglenn-xco]

Wayglenn Oracle [Ver. 100.10.331] Wayglenn Expeditionary Corporation© All Rights Reserved.

Welcome! Please Log In. Username: shoffman017462 Password: ************

. .

Querying Credentials . . . Beginning Session . . .

Welcome, Researcher Hoffman!

// A freckled face beams and waves, holding up a 'shh!' sign and gesturing towards the distance where a large Barsboldia female forages in the fields. Instead of speaking, Researcher Hoffman utilizes sign-language which Wayglenn Technology automatically transcribes. //

Here she is! She looks even bigger in person. BAR-021 is a sexually mature female that I have named 'Willow.' She's got high contrast for a cow; the labs are examining DNA samples from her chipping to see if there's any particular reason as to why.

Willow found a herd to travel with - one of her own kind, at that! Among their number was an orange-faced bull and three other cows, all of varying browns and dusty hues. Willow's colorations appear to be fairly unique. We will know more when the results from the labs return. While the herd rests, Willow can't seem to settle. She keeps sniffing at the air and looking off to the distance… there must be something that's caught her attention.

It was a lone calf! Willow discovered the poor thing stranded at the riverbed and ventured closer to it, bleating encouragements all the while. With a welcome promised, the brave little bull chanced the swim across the river to Willow's side - she's been looking after him ever since. That's all for now!

// Sam offers a wave and a final smile before stooping to cut off the video feed. //

Processing Images . . .

Uploaded. Thank you, Researcher Hoffman! Logging Out. . .

[sunkeeperxiv]

FFXIV Write Day 9: Fair

Post-EW timeline (no spoilers really, though), ~700 words

Rashe'a plays a trick on the kids in his family and winds up on the wrong side of their parents for it.

Rashe’a had found a foolproof way to enjoy a quiet morning.

He wasn’t unhappy, per se, to be helping his mother and sister build their new homestead, right next to his aunt Eline’s. After the chaos and the stress of the Final Days, a little hearthside boredom was perfectly welcome, and he’d stay and help as long as they needed. Daca’li was still recovering, after all, and wasn’t as much help as Rashe’a knew he wanted to be.

No, Rashe’a had simply never really figured out how to deal with kits. The older ones could be a help, sure, but the youngest seemed to find the worst times to be underfoot. He loved them, really, but they had absolutely no sense of timing. Well, it had taken a while, but he’d come up with the perfect distraction for them, and, to the obvious surprise of his mother, sister, aunt and uncle, had offered to keep them busy that night.

He’d challenged them to a game of hide and seek, named Linna’to the seeker, and had promptly hidden himself on the bed of the Whilom River, confident they’d be looking for him right up till dawn broke. He hadn’t accompanied his uncle to Doma with the intent of benefiting from it personally, but he had to admit the Kojin’s blessing came in handy now and again.

He was both right and wrong, as it turned out - it took only two hours for him to be found, but it wasn’t one of the kits that found him. Instead, as he was beginning to doze off, Daca’li’s head broke the surface of the water above him. He was trying to look disapproving, although Rashe’a recognized the evidence of repressed laughter on his face.

“This ain’t fair!” he yelled. “What kind of a hiding place is this? May as well climb to the top of a tree where they can’t follow you!” Ah, well, it had been nice while it lasted.

“An’ when they hide underneath furniture it’s fair?” Admitting defeat, he got to his feet, lifting himself out of the water and shaking the droplets from his head, brushing the wet strands from his eyes. Daca’li pulled himself upright and set to wringing out his own, longer hair. “I was perfectly visible, they’ve got nothing to complain about.”

“Oh, aye, you were perfectly visible.” As Rashe’a’s vision cleared and focused, he caught sight of a small, blue-haired head peeking out at him from behind his uncle. “So visible that Naih ran cryin’ back to her ma yellin’ that her uncle’d drowned.” He put a hand on the girl’s head and looked down at her. “He’s your cousin, by the way,” he told her. “I’m his uncle. And see, he’s not drowned, he’s fine. But don’t you or any of the others try that yourself.”

“Ah, come now, don’t demote me. There’s no need to be mean about it.” Rashe’a got as much water as he was going to off of his clothes and held a hand out in the direction of home, signaling his readiness to leave.

Daca’li hefted his daughter up into his arms and they set off. “Oh, I’m just having fun with you. You'll get it back eventually. Now, Tahl, she’s definitely going to have some choice words for you about how you made her daughter cry. And,” he said, turning and giving Rashe’a a smile that seemed almost threatening, “I’m pretty sure Eline’s gone and told your ma by now if Linna'to hasn't, so—“

Rashe’a felt every strand of fur on his tail stand up straight. “I— She understands there’s no harm done, right? You told her I was fine? Nothing to be worried about?” He hadn’t actually meant to worry anyone, least of all his ma. What’s more, he certainly didn’t want to be consigned to digging out new vegetable beds for the next fortnight.

Daca’li shrugged, still smiling. “I don’t know what got said or what she’s thinkin’. Tahl was demandin' I find out what was going on with you, and my daughter was cryin’ at me, so I just headed out. She probably ain’t happy though.”

Rashe’a took a deep breath. It was probably fine. It wouldn’t be a big deal. She’d understand. …Still, it was probably best to get home as quickly as he could. So he could dry off. He was starting to shiver, after all.

Because he was cold, of course. From the water.

He heard Daca’li break out into laughter behind him as he broke into a run.