#and later battling the group’s leader

[ameliaava001]

wwe lol ,,,,,<<<

[lethalbutterfly]

I'd like to take a moment to recommend this really cool comic on webtoon! It's called 'New Magical Me' and the premise is basically this (spoiler alert for the first 3 episodes): A transmasc magical girl is, alongside his team, engaged in the final battle against their big bad evil sorceress. He uses the clash of their final blows to fake his death freeing himself from the public eye and social obligation to his friends and family, affording himself the opportunity to transition in privacy and peace. 8 years later, he returns to his home city, now a literal self made man, but finds that the threat of evil magic still persists. He knows that transforming again would be bad for him on a psychological level, and so has to reestablish connections to the rest of his old squad, who, without him to hold them together as friends, have all fallen out of touch with each other and are each pursuing their own adult lives and problems, with varying degrees of success as well as varying reactions to him still being alive and having transitioned. Drama, both heartwarming and heartwrenching, ensues, with a backdrop of high octane magical girl heroics to emphasize the grounded emotional notes.

[sweetblinginrose]

𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖘𝖎𝖙𝖍 𝖔𝖗𝖉𝖊𝖗,

(OS Eddie Munson x fem!reader geek)

summary: Rival Dungeons and Dragons reader who has a tournament and ends up without clothes. Oops…

word count: 6,6k +

warnings: obv +18, rivalry, unprotected sex, asphyxiation, bad language, cumming inside, female masturbation, culilingus.

a/n: hey lol, i wrote this half asleep so idk how it turned out, i'll see if it's any good or not later, so if there is something wrongly translated or that you don't find makes sense, pls let me know, hugs!

oh and don't copy my idea, it's my own huh 🦄

masterlist

part 2 !!

━━ ✧♡✧ ━━ ✧♡✧ ━━ ✧♡✧ ━━

The Sith Order.

All the members of the Hellfire Club and your group, The Sith Order, maintained a cordial and mutually respectful relationship, with the exception of the tense rivalry between you and the opposing leader, the insufferable Eddie. You hated him so much, especially now that you had bet your grand dice, which your brother had given you as a gift.

The abandoned cabin loomed like a shadow among the trees of the forest, a forgotten refuge that now housed your group of friends and your imaginary adventures. Inside, the air was filled with a smell of dampness and earth, a constant reminder of nature reclaiming its space. The once cozy and lived-in furniture was now covered in a layer of dust and cobwebs that wove complex patterns in every corner.

The sofa, your throne, was worn out, with upholstery torn in several places, revealing the crumbling yellowed foam at the touch. Dark stains of time adorned the fabric, and every time you moved, a cloud of dust rose like a sigh from the cabin itself. Sitting there, on your stomach, with a furrowed brow and crossed arms, you couldn't help but feel the rough and cold texture of the sofa against your skin, a reminder of your recent defeat in the game.

Around you, the tables wobbled on uneven legs, their surfaces scratched and marked with circles from past glasses. The faded and torn curtains hung sadly from the windows, allowing dim light to filter in and illuminate the dust particles in the air. The floor creaked under the weight of footsteps, and each floorboard seemed to tell a story of abandonment.

In this space, time seemed to have stopped, and every object told the story of a better past now eclipsed by neglect and desolation.

You felt as if a storm was brewing inside you, a mixture of frustration and challenge that consumed you as you sat on the sofa. The defeat in the friendly game was a thorn in your pride, a small battle lost in a war that seemed to extend beyond the game of dragons and dungeons. The rivalry with the Hellfire Club and its leader, Eddie, was the real dragon to be defeated, and every thought of him fueled the flames of your resentment.

Eddie, with his arrogant smile and his ability to bring out the best in his players, had become the antagonist not only in the game, but in your mind and life. You imagined him, with his tousled hair and carefree attitude, as the perfect villain for your campaign, one who seemed to enjoy every time his group came out victorious. The idea that he might consider your defeat as a point in his favor was unbearable.

While your friends continued with the campaign, laughing, stressed, focused, and rolling dice, you immersed yourself in your thoughts, planning your next move. It was not just a matter of winning a game; it was a matter of honor, of proving that your group could overcome any challenge, even the infamous Hellfire Club. Determination began to replace frustration, and although you still felt the bitterness of defeat, there was now a new goal on the horizon: to defeat Eddie and prove that your group was the best in the fantasy game.

But... were you really prepared for tonight?

...

Eddie, with a sly smile and a spark of malice in his eyes, steps forward to greet you in the lair of the Hellfire Club, the basement of the institute, the setting of countless campaigns and now the battlefield of your latest challenge. As the girls from your club gather in the space, filled with detailed maps and meticulously painted character figures, Eddie focuses on you, his most formidable rival.

"Welcome, oh great 'Mialee!'" he exclaims with an exaggeratedly theatrical and ironic tone, making a reference to the elven mage character to underline his mockery. "I hope your spells are as sharp as your tongue this time, and that your strategies are less predictable than your expressions of defeat."

You can feel the gaze of the others on you, some with complicit smiles and others with cautious curiosity. Eddie continues, not missing the opportunity to poke at your pride: "I hope you brought your Dragon Crystal Die, because something tells me you're going to need all the luck you can get."

The lair resonates with the stifled laughter of the club members, and although you know that Eddie's words are part of the rivalry game, you also feel that each joke is a challenge to your skill and determination. With a firm gaze and unwavering resolve, you prepare to show that this battle will be different, that this time, Eddie will be the one left speechless at the end of the night.

"You are living proof that not everything that glitters in a treasure is gold, and in your case, it's not even copper," you say, challenging him as you look him in the eyes. With a confidence that resonates in every word, you confront Eddie, your eyes shining with the reflection of the candles that illuminate the basement. "I hope you haven't forgotten your part of the bet, Eddie," you say with a firm and clear voice that cuts through the tension in the room. "That Orb of Entwined Destinies you so proudly show off will be mine before the moon reaches its zenith."

The Orb of Entwined Destinies was a perfect sphere of dark crystal, with a core that seemed to contain a miniature nebula, ever-changing and slowly rotating. It was more than just an object for Eddie; it was a symbol of his ability to manipulate probabilities and destiny within the game.

The mention of the orb makes Eddie's smile falter for a moment, a crack in his facade of confidence. You know you have hit a sensitive point, reminding him that you are not the only one with something valuable at stake. "Get ready, Eddie," you continue, "because when I'm done with you and the Hellfire Club, that orb will be the trophy of The Sith Order, and your luck will change forever," you spit, leaving the boys dumbfounded, unlike his group of friends, as they were used to this kind of speech.

Lucas, with a carefree smile and a tone bordering on disbelief, tries to lighten the atmosphere that has built up in the room. "Come on, guys, don't you realize? It's just a dumb bet, right? There's no need to turn this into an epic battle or something..." he comments, his voice a thread of sanity in the tapestry of rivalry unfolding before him.

However, his attempt to lighten the mood is quickly quashed by a severe look from both leaders, who in a rare moment of unity gesture to him with a stern gesture and an almost synchronized "Shh!" The seriousness of their bet is not something they are willing to downplay, even with Lucas' playful interjection.

The battle between The Sith Order and the Hellfire Club unfolds in a fantasy world woven with the magic of dragons and dungeons, but the tension is as real as the beating hearts of the players. The room, illuminated by the flickering light of the candles, has transformed into an epic battlefield where each roll of the dice resonates like the clash of swords.

The Sith Order bravely faces the challenges posed by Eddie and his Hellfire Club. The dice roll on the table like distant thunder, dictating the fate of heroes and villains alike. You, The Sith Order, with characters ranging from cunning rogues to powerful sorceresses, maneuver through traps and puzzles that Eddie has crafted with malicious skill. The battle intensifies, with each strategic move and each spell cast adding layers to the unfolding narrative. Your characters fight hordes of infernal creatures, cross dark abysses, and decipher ancient codices to unravel the secrets that will lead them to victory.

As the night progresses, a tie seems imminent. The Hellfire Club has countered every attack, every plan, with a precision bordering on the supernatural. But you, with your leading character, are not willing to give up. With a mix of cunning and a bit of luck, you roll the dice for one last masterful play. Silence fills the room as the dice roll, dancing on the edge of the abyss between victory and defeat. Finally, they settle, and the numbers they show are the harbinger of a tide change. Your play has been successful, overcoming the defenses of the Hellfire Club and securing an unexpected triumph.

Eddie, with a look of genuine astonishment, acknowledges the victory of The Sith Order, albeit reluctantly. You, with a smile of satisfaction, accept the Orb of Entwined Destinies, now rightfully yours.

Amidst the euphoria of victory, one of the girls from your group, with a contagious smile and an overflowing energy, suggests an idea that captures everyone's attention. "How about we celebrate with some pizzas? It would be great to relax and enjoy the moment," she says enthusiastically.

The idea is met with a mix of nods and smiles. It is a comfortable and familiar proposition, a perfect way to lower the intensity of the night and simply enjoy each other's company. Everyone, except you and Eddie, seems to agree. The tension of the battle still clings to you, and the idea of sharing a table with Eddie and his club, even in a neutral and friendly environment, is something that you find hard to accept, just like Eddie.

However, aware that rejecting the offer could be seen as poor sportsmanship, both of you reluctantly agree with a gesture of resignation. "Fine, but only because I'm hungry," you murmur, trying to hide your reluctance behind a practical excuse. Eddie nods silently, his serious expression revealing his reluctant agreement.

And so, with victory still fresh and emotions running high, the group sets off to share a meal that promises to be as full of flavor as it is of interesting dynamics.

The night has slipped into a soft twilight when everyone, now relieved of the tension of the game, finds themselves in Eddie's van. The space is filled with laughter and the sound of bottles clinking together. "Cheers!" the group shouts for the sixth time, raising their beers in the air in a toast that has become a ritual.

Eddie's van, with its worn seats, stickers, dirt, and windows displaying the world passing by at high speed, has become a temporary sanctuary of camaraderie. With each new "Cheers!", the barriers between The Sith Order and the Hellfire Club seem to dissolve a little more, erased by the alcohol and the shared joy. Or so it seems...

Eddie's van snakes along the road, a lonely path flanked by the silhouette of trees gently swaying under the starry sky. In the front seats, silence between Eddie and you is a marked contrast to the bustle that reigns in the back, where the rest of the group sings enthusiastically game anthems, interspersed with laughter and the sound of opening beers.

You, with crossed legs and a beer can resting in your hands, get lost in contemplation of the nature that unfolds before your eyes. The moonlight bathes the landscape, transforming each tree and bush into dancing shadows that play hide and seek with each turn of the road.

Eddie, with his attention focused on the road, drives with a slowness that seems to respect the shared silence. His profile stands out against the occasional glow of distant street lamps, and although you are together in the cabin, an abyss of unspoken words stretches between you.

"Hey..." Eddie's voice breaks the silence, a word hanging in the air that seems to wait for permission to continue. He does not look away from the road, as if fearing that a moment of distraction could reveal more than he intends.

You turn your head towards him, an eyebrow arched in a mixture of surprise and curiosity. It is strange, this attempt at conversation. Outside the game, words between you have been as scarce as leaves in winter. You have never crossed more than strategies and challenges, and now, this attempt at dialogue seems as out of place as a barbarian in a library.

The tension between you is palpable, a taut thread that is woven with each kilometer the van devours. What words will follow that "hey"? Will it be an attempt at a truce, or perhaps the prelude to another challenge? Time seems to stand still as you wait for Eddie to continue, and in that moment, the van is not just a moving vehicle, but a space where two rivals might, just maybe, begin to see each other as something more.

"No... no, nothing. Forget it..." he murmurs softly, not taking his eyes off the road, but now looking more tense, sighing.

You decide not to insist, but this time not averting your gaze from those long locks, but discreetly examining them for some kind of response.

Eddie's van glides to a smooth stop in front of a caravan. As he turns off the engine, Eddie's expression transforms. The seriousness that marked his face during the journey gives way to a genuine smile, an open invitation to continue the night in a space that is as much a part of him as the game they both love. "Come on, guys! The party continues at my place!" he exclaims with enthusiasm, his voice resonating with the promise of more laughter and memories to be created. "We can drink as much as we want, and if anyone's interested, there's weed too. My uncle works nights, so we have the place to ourselves."

Friends and friends respond with a chorus of approval, their stumbling steps and complicit smiles sealing the tacit agreement to extend the celebration. One by one, they enter the caravan, a cozy space illuminated by dim lights and adorned with mementos from trips and caps. A bit messy, but cozy.

You, with a mix of caution and curiosity, are the last to cross the threshold. Your eyes meet Eddie's, and for a moment, the outside world fades away. Eddie closes the door behind you, a simple gesture but loaded with meaning. You stand there, still, remembering the unfinished conversation, the words that Eddie left hanging in the air.

Feeling the weight of the night and the looks charged with unanswered questions, you decide to join the group that has settled in the caravan. You grab a few more beers, your hand brushing against the cold surface of the can, and sit at one end of the narrow sofa from where you can observe the scene. Eddie, on the other hand, seems different tonight. The usual arrogance that characterizes him has given way to an unusual stillness, almost reflective. Was defeat the cause of this change? Or was there something deeper behind his silence?

With each passing minute, glances between you meet like swords in a silent duel, full of questions that neither of you dares to voice aloud. After an hour of this game of looks, you feel the need to escape, if only for a moment, from the intensity of the atmosphere.

"Where is the bathroom?" you ask, your voice strangely formal in the relaxed atmosphere. Eddie points to a small hallway at the back, and you get up, navigating the space filled with laughter and conversations until you reach the bathroom.

Inside, you find yourself facing the mirror, your reflection returning an image of someone who seems to be on the border between two worlds. You wet the back of your neck, not wanting to ruin your makeup, and step out, feeling refreshed but still restless.

As you pass through the narrow exit of the bathroom, you collide with the partially open door of Eddie's room, and curiosity gets the better of you. You discreetly peek inside, your eyes scanning the space that is so intimately his. The room is adorned with posters of rock bands, metal, clothes everywhere, magazines scattered on the floor, and action figures of fantasy heroes, a mix of passions that reveal facets of Eddie that you had never considered. On the bed lies an open diary with scribbles and handwritten notes.

Eddie, with his carefree smile, leans against the doorframe, watching you with curiosity as you try to process the mess. "What are you doing here?" he repeats, his voice gentle but clearly amused by your confused expression. The scent of marijuana is evident, and his eyes, although red, gleam with a mischievous spark. He seems not to mind in the least your presence in his personal sanctuary. You feel like an intruder in an unknown world, every object in the room telling a story that only Eddie knows. However, he, with that calm bordering on indifference, gestures for you to enter. "Come, I'll show you my collection," he says casually, and suddenly, the place transforms. What was chaos before now seems like an art gallery, each hanging T-shirt, each vinyl, and each magazine clipping is a piece of his identity. He guides you through his space, narrating anecdotes of concerts and trips, his voice a thread weaving a tapestry of lived experiences.

The initial embarrassment fades away, replaced by fascination at discovering the depth of Eddie's personality. And as he shares his world with you, the messy room becomes a map of his personal universe, a place that, despite the disorder, now makes sense.

As you survey the room with your gaze, something catches your attention and takes your breath away: a proudly displayed B.C. Rich guitar hanging on the wall.

It is a red and shiny beauty, with its aggressive shapes and air of mystery, a piece that any metal lover would desire. Your heart beats with excitement, not only because of the surprise of finding such a treasure in Eddie's room, but because metal is your passion, one of the many things you have in common with Eddie without even knowing it, a detail he is unaware of.

He notices your excitement and, with a mischievous smile, takes down the guitar and hands it to you. "It's all yours, at least for now," he says with a wink. You hold it in your hands with reverence, feeling the weight of the wood and the coldness of the metal.

With shyness but moved by the emotion, you ask Eddie to play something. He shrugs, regretting the lack of an amplifier, but he is not discouraged. With a mischievous smile, he starts "playing" the guitar silently, mimicking the sounds with his mouth. It's a parody, but there is something about his attitude that invites you to play along.

"Come on, guess which song this is," he challenges you, as he moves his fingers in the air and imaginary sounds of a song fill the room. You concentrate, trying to follow the rhythm and melody that Eddie creates. The silent notes seem to come to life, and suddenly, you recognize it. It's 'Time Is Right' by Whitesnake.

Laughter fills the room as you guess it, and Eddie nods approvingly. "I knew you were one of mine, babe," he says, and in that moment, the guitar is not just an instrument, but a bridge between two souls who share a hidden passion for metal and many other things.

A blush creeps up your cheeks, an unexpected warmth that takes you by surprise. The word "babe" resonates in your ears, a term so casual and yet, loaded with an intimacy you did not expect. It feels as if you are inside the pages of one of those erotic books your mother used to read in secret, where the protagonists, initially at odds, end up wrapped in a story of love and rough sex.

Eddie's gaze has become more intense, his eyes no longer just reflecting the reddish glow of a pot smoker, but also a different glow, deeper, provoked by your presence. There is something about the way he looks at you that makes you feel like you are the only person in the world at that moment, but at the same time, as if he is undressing you.

You find yourself returning his gaze, unable to look away from his eyes. There is a connection, an unspoken understanding that seems to transcend words. And while a part of you wants to laugh at the situation, at how absurd it is to feel like a character in a pornographic novel, you cannot deny the electricity in the air, that spicy tension that hangs between the two of you.

Eddie takes a step towards you, his proximity overwhelming, and although he does not say anything more, he doesn't need to. Words are unnecessary when the looks speak for themselves. And in that instant, in that messy room that smells of marijuana and freedom, you understand that sometimes, real life can be as surprising and exciting as the stories hidden within the pages of a book.

After that moment, the room seems smaller, as if the walls had closed in to witness the silence shared between you. You decide to break the tension with a nervous smile and a change of subject. "Hey... what did you want to ask me before, you know, in the van?" you ask, stuttering slightly as you feel Eddie's scent filling your nostrils.

Eddie leaned against the threshold of the door, just inches away, watching your lips adorned with an intense crimson and your lined eyes attentively. "Ah, that..." he wondered, feigning forgetfulness. "I think I wanted to say something about Dungeons and Dragons, right?" he inquired with irony, biting his lip as he laughed and crossed his arms.

None of this compared to the fantasies you had with Eddie. Let's admit it, you had imagined countless similar scenarios, all related to the game and its protagonist, Eddie. You had wished for him to touch you in the same way he caresses his guitar. You wanted to be that fucking guitar.

"I don't think I want to talk about that right now..." you whispered, slowly moving closer to Eddie, who raised an eyebrow and smiled widely, catching your hint.

"Well then, if you don't want to listen to me, why don't you shut me up?" he whispered near your ear, sending a shiver down your spine. He grabbed your belt, holding your short denim skirt, forcing you to be pressed against him. "I said, why don't you shut me up..."

Eddie played dirty even outside of his character. He wanted you to take the initiative, perhaps to mock you or further feed his ego, but you wouldn't allow that to happen. With confidence, you ran your tongue over your lips and approached his neck, whispering, "I don't plan on silencing you. I enjoy listening to you and narrating each campaign..." This excited him, caressing your shoulder and getting closer, causing your breasts to press against him, eliciting a reaction in his groin. "Then, shut me up. I know you've wanted to since you met me," you whispered, trying to provoke him, with some success.

He responded by pushing you against the wall, trapping you between it and his body, placing his thigh between yours and gripping your waist tightly, feeling the coldness of his rings against your bare skin. "What I've wanted since I met you is to fuck you on the Harken map, so that your screams scare away the undead lurking there..." he muttered with a deep voice, softly kissing your collarbone, causing a sigh to escape your lips. With captivating slowness, Eddie guides his lips to yours, each movement deliberate and filled with anticipation. When they finally meet, the kiss is like an explosion of fire, burning and passionate. His lips sink into yours with an intensity that leaves you breathless, and his tongue boldly slides in to explore every corner of your mouth from the very first moment.

As your lips entwine in a sensual dance, his hands find your breasts with a firmness that surprises and excites you at the same time. The pressure of his hands cupping your breasts sends a wave of pleasure through your body, making you involuntarily shudder at the intense and unfamiliar sensation. You never expected this reaction, but you find yourself completely captivated by the desire that Eddie awakens in you, leaving you craving more of his passionate touch.

Eddie suddenly stops, his fingers noticing the absence of the bra he expected to find. A mischievous spark shines in his eyes as he looks at you with a mixture of surprise and desire. With a naughty smile on his lips, he whispers in your ear in a seductive tone, "Wow, looks like the girl comes with nothing...," murmuring with a hoarse voice, his warm breath sending shivers down your naked skin. His comment, though bold, is imbued with an irresistible sensuality that makes you blush and feel even more drawn to him. It feels like you're in a scene taken straight from one of those forbidden novels your mother used to find in the library, but this time, you're the protagonist, enveloped in the heat of shared desire with Eddie.

With expert dexterity, Eddie deepens the kiss, intensifying each brush of his lips against yours. As his tongue explores yours with unrestrained passion, his thigh slides and exerts pressure between yours, finding its way under your denim skirt, lifting it almost completely, hitting just that sensitive spot that makes your whole body react instantly.

"Mhmmm..." an involuntary moan escapes your lips as you feel the perfectly placed pressure of his thigh against you, sending waves of pleasure through your body. You feel the need to ride that leg. You were very wet at that moment, so the touch was making you even wetter.

He moves it with precision between yours, creating a delicious friction that awakens sensations that make you gasp against his lips. Each movement is calculated, designed to provoke maximum pleasure, as his thigh finds that sensitive spot on your body, sending waves of excitement through you.

"You've got me so hard..." with a throaty whisper, he makes you aware of the effect you have on him, sending a thrill of excitement down your spine. His warm breath against your lips only increases the intensity of the moment. You feel your heart pounding hard as you let yourself be carried away by the passion swirling around you. Then, with seductive skill, he leans slightly down, his strong hands gripping the bottom of your thighs to open you up and wrap around his waist. The change in position allows his bulge to press directly against your underwear, which is exposed by the previous lifting of your skirt. A wave of desire surges through your being as you feel his prominence brushing directly against your sensitive and swollen clit, sending sparks of pleasure that seem to electrify every fiber of your being.

The movements of his hips are precise and deliberate, each delicious brush torturous while engulfing you deeper into the abyss of pleasure. The sounds of your ragged breathing blend with the seductive whispers and soft moans escaping between hot kisses. You are completely at the mercy of the passion Eddie unleashes in you, lost in the whirlwind of overwhelming sensations that threaten to consume you completely.

The barely contained moan escapes your lips between kisses as you feel Eddie's gentle hip movement, a movement that sends you soaring to the heights of pleasure. Still with your thighs tightly wrapped around his hips, you give in to a wild and passionate kiss, with an intensity that defies any limit.

The kiss becomes a whirlwind of unabated passion, your hands gripping his shoulders tightly as you let yourself be carried away by the overwhelming sensations. Amidst the heat of the moment, you feel Eddie release one of your legs, changing the dynamics of the position and making you feel his bulge even more. Now, in this new position, the contact with his clothed cock is even more evident, causing you to instinctively arch your hips towards him, seeking more contact, more friction. You feel his hands grip your buttocks firmly, aggressively pressing you against his jeans, as if he is eager to feel you even closer.

The brushes and hip movements become increasingly intense, a symphony of pleasure that seems to have no end. You are completely immersed in the moment.

"Mmhm... fuck..." Between moans escaping your lips, accompanied by the sensual movements of your hips, Eddie suddenly stops, only to turn off the bedroom light and then guides you, still with your body on top of his, to his disheveled bed. He places you on your back on the tousled sheets, and positions himself above you, burning desire reflected in his gaze as he begins to explore your neck with hot kisses and licks. Each touch of his tongue against your skin awakens an electric sensation that makes you tremble with pleasure. His expert hands play with your nipples from inside your top, squeezing and teasing them while his thighs continue to exert delicious pressure on your intimate area, making you gasp with each movement, holding onto his back.

Slowly, your rival moves down your body with controlled impatience, licking and kissing your abdomen eagerly before quickly lifting your top and leaving you exposed before him. His lips find your breasts, and he kisses and licks them with devotion, as if they are the most delicious thing he has ever tasted. His long hair sometimes gets tangled in his face, but when you start gently tugging on it for pleasure, he moves away, leaving behind an incredibly enticing scene that makes you arch your hips forward instinctively.

While Eddie continues to lavish attention on your breasts, his hands begin to explore above your underwear with his ring finger, stroking gently from top to bottom. "Do you like it like this?" he asks between kisses and licks, asking you with a husky voice if you're enjoying yourself, establishing an intimate and desire-filled dialogue that only increases the sexual tension between you. "Or is it better like this?" he increases the speed of his touch.

Your silence prompts Eddie to grab your chin firmly, his fingers exerting a dominant and sexual pressure as he forces you to look into his eyes. When you finally respond to his question with an intense gaze, he slowly releases you, going back down to give attention to your body. His lips find your panties, and he kisses and licks them eagerly, soaking them with his saliva mixed with your own excited wetness.

With precise and deliberate movements, Eddie slowly pulls down your panties, placing soft kisses on your inner thigh as he slides them down your legs. Once he has removed your panties, his eyes meet your exposed, naked, and wet pussy, and he can't help but feel his cock throbbing with an unprecedented intensity, eager to satisfy the burning desire between them. You feel incredibly exposed under his heated gaze, but Eddie sees you as a work of art, a sight that excites him to the limit. Without wasting time, Eddie gives you a generic lick to your wet pussy, spreading your lips with his fingers to access your exposed clit directly. An overwhelming moan escapes your lips at the wave of pleasure that courses through your body, but Eddie quickly covers your mouth, whispering that you can't moan to avoid being heard in the common area where the others are.

With a mischievous smile on his face, Eddie realizes that the loud music has concealed any sound that would have revealed their activities in the bedroom. With your mouth still covered, he delves into the task with renewed eagerness, licking and sucking your clit with an intensity that makes your body arch in response. Each suck and each lick sends waves of pleasure through you, taking you to the edge of ecstasy over and over again. Your hips move instinctively in response to the overwhelming pleasure, but Eddie firmly controls them, maintaining a rhythm that takes you closer and closer to the precipice of pleasure. With an expert hand, he begins caressing your abdomen, slowly descending until reaching your clit, parting his mouth for a moment to touch it with his fingers before inserting two of them without any prior preparation.

The sudden stimulus causes your eyes to roll back, and your thighs tighten with force from the pleasure that overwhelms you, arching your back and moving your hips towards the direction of the long-haired person. In a short time, Eddie goes back to action, losing himself between your thighs as he continues moving his fingers with unwavering determination.

He continues like this for a few minutes, not stopping for a moment, until you feel that you're about to reach climax. You grab his hair with incredible strength, almost burying your fingers in its roots, urging him to continue, feeling like you're about to burst in his mouth. But just as you're on the edge of orgasm, he pulls away from you, leaving a thread of saliva mixed with your wetness as a separation between his mouth and your pussy, leaving you in a state of uncontrollable anticipation and desire.

Eddie, eager to satisfy his burning desire, hastily fumbles with his zipper and unleashes his erect cock, ready for action. Eddie's cock, although of average size, has a peculiarity that sets it apart: a curved shape that gives it a unique and distinctive appearance. Its thickness is notable, and the veins that run along its length add texture to its look. The skin that covers it has a pink tone, with a reddish hue indicating the excitement that engulfs it. A slightly glistening liquid adorns its tip. It is an image that reflects virility and desire, a promise of intense pleasure about to be unleashed.

"How does this look, huh?" he moves it, noticeably sensitive, gently rubbing it against your clit, giving you a mischievous look as if he's playing a game with you. Without warning, after lightly masturbating it, he quickly and decisively inserts it into you, completely surprising you and leaving you breathless. "Mhmmm..." he sighs deeply, as if a weight has been lifted off his shoulders, arching his head backward. From the very first second, he begins to thrust into you with a dizzying rhythm, penetrating you deeply over and over again. You are overwhelmed by the intensity of the pleasure that engulfs you, unable to articulate a single word as you completely surrender to the wild thrusts of the guy. Each thrust hits your insides with overpowering force, sending waves of ecstasy through your body.

Despite the initial discomfort from the lack of preparation, you find yourself immersed in a whirlwind of sensations that make you lose track of time and space.

You writhe under him, unable to hold back the moans that escape your lips as you completely surrender to the frenzied pleasure that consumes you. Although it hurts, you can't help but enjoy every thrust, every touch of his skin against yours ignites a burning fire inside you.

He grabs you by the neck with a firm but dominant hand, stopping any sound that could escape your lips. His warm breath brushes against your ear as he whispers with a husky and authoritative voice, "Shut up." The words, loaded with desire and determination, send a shiver down your spine, leaving you breathless and obedient to his command. You are completely surrendered to him, unable to do anything but obey his orders as you let yourself be carried away by the frenzied passion that burns between you. The orgasm that you had almost experienced less than a minute ago begins to resonate through your body again, but the intensity of Eddie's thrusts makes you feel like you're on the verge of a great climax. You are completely overwhelmed by the avalanche of sensations that envelop you, unable to resist the tide of pleasure that drags you into an endless abyss of ecstasy. Your increasingly intense and uncontrolled moans blend with the background music, creating a symphony of pleasure and ecstasy that fills the room. Eddie, releasing his hand from your neck, begins to hit your thigh and butt with a mixture of desire and unbridled passion. As he continues to thrust into you with force, his lascivious words fill the air, whispering in your ear with a deep and seductive voice.

He tells you how much he has wanted to fuck that pussy of yours, expressing his most intimate desires with an exciting crudeness that makes you shiver with pleasure. He calls you a slut with a tone of desire and adoration, celebrating your sexuality and the way you grip his cock with every thrust. Those words, charged with lust and desire, only increase the intensity of the moment, pushing you closer to climax with each word that comes out of his mouth.

You can feel yourself getting closer to the edge, every thrust of Eddie sending waves of pleasure through your body. He perceives it too, thanks to the way your pussy grips his cock, and he lets out a guttural grunt of satisfaction. You're on the edge of the abyss, about to let the ecstasy completely envelop you, while Eddie's lascivious moans and words push you towards the most glorious climax you've ever experienced

You feel the ecstasy completely enveloping you, a overwhelming wave of pleasure that shakes you to your core. Your walls contract tightly around Eddie's cock, squeezing with an intensity that makes him moan with pleasure. "Damn, you're so tight..."

Your body trembles uncontrollably, your eyes rolling back in your head as a guttural groan escapes from your lips, louder and more heartbreaking than ever before.

However, before you can fully recover from your orgasm, Eddie aggressively grabs you by the throat again, his expression a wild mix of concentration, excitement, and a hint of anger. With notable abruptness, he continues fucking with a renewed ferocity, as if taking revenge for something, but this time he has absolute control. The sensation of being taken with such force awakens a wild fire inside you, a overflowing passion that mixes with pain and pleasure in a symphony of indescribable sensations. You are completely immersed in the erotic game between you and Eddie, each thrust taking you further into the abyss of shared desire.

Thegame is now tied, each one taking the lead at different moments. You feel Eddie moaning with an unusual intensity, sensing that he's about to reach climax. You want to warn him not to come inside, but your throat is blocked by Eddie's firm hand, keeping you from articulating any words. A slight shiver runs through his body when he perceives your attempt to communicate your desire, but it's too late.

With a few final shaky thrusts, Eddie gives in to the avalanche of pleasure, releasing his hot and trembling liquid inside you. You accept his release without reserve, watching Eddie's expression as he does so. His face shows an unusual vulnerability, with arched eyebrows and a lost look somewhere in the room. His slightly parted lips release his moans of pleasure, and his hands grip your hips tightly, as if clinging to you for support.

After Eddie releases his liquid inside you, he slowly retreats and lies down by your side. Both of you remain staring at the ceiling, and suddenly, a nervous and uncontrollable laughter overwhelms you. Eddie looks at you strangely and asks what's happening. Between laughs, you respond that you just imagined that all of this was one of his campaigns, a kind of joke or experiment designed to test your limits and reactions. The surprise on Eddie's face turns into a knowing smile when he realizes that you have disarmed the tension of the moment with your humorous comment. Both of you give in to laughter, releasing the accumulated tension and sharing a moment of complicity after the unrestrained passion you just experienced together. It's an unexpected and light ending to an intimate and passionate encounter.

[badly-drawn-doflamingo]

Brook’s Past, Military and Everything Between [ An Essay kinda ]

Brook’s past is not a thing many people seem to mention or think about, at least in full, however it’s something that's plagued me. Not only as a Brook fan, but simply out of the odd implications it has towards the future, if any. Oda’s planted too many seeds for it to utterly be nothing; there’s so much odd and seemingly out of place comments and facts stated by Brook and others towards this missing history. However, knowing that the show is beginning to near it’s end, due to time, I am unsure of what exactly will be done.

I believe however, for folks' interest and so we can have everything in one place, that compiling everything found so far can be beneficial, so, I have.

Starting with what we know for sure, Brook is from the West Blue, born 90 years ago to a certain kingdom, the same kingdom he was a military convoy leader from. We know this due to a few factors, however it’s still open to debate if it *is* the same kingdom, however seeing as he was shown as a child to already know what fencing is, practicing moves with his bow, I am just going to say he probably was. In any case, other things worth noting, on the topic of childhood, is that Brook seems to have had money. At least, stability.

Compared to a lot of the other strawhats, Brook is shown dressing very nice. No tatters, no tears, shined shoes and a full violin and bow. He also, as already stated, seemed to be exposed to fencing enough to mirror the moves. If this comes from his kingdom, it means he was exposed to it at a young age. Knowing that he was a military convoy leader, this could be taken that perhaps there were military demonstrations, perhaps the kid saw castle guard or other displays; it’s really up in the air.

We know Brook, again as stated before, became a military convoy leader. Now, the definition of what exactly that means can differ.

Wikipedia states; A convoy is a group of vehicles, typically motor vehicles or ships, traveling together for mutual support and protection. Often, a convoy is organized with armed defensive support and can help maintain cohesion within a unit. It may also be used in a non-military sense, for example when driving through remote areas.

This could mean Brook’s job could’ve been accompanying ships for protection, being a knight for his King, mediating information and goods that come in and out of the kingdom. This would make sense on why his speed was needed, a 9.2 ft man being a great choice for a leader.

His weapon also would make sense for this kind of mission, perhaps secrecy being important or at least the ability to be discreet. His cane sword, a ‘Shikomizue’, is not unique however to just him in the show, one other man using one that has been confirmed so far, that being Fujitora. The pair also share a sea, the west, and both utilize iaijutsu (quick draw techniques.) Fujitora blinded himself with said sword because of something apparently so cruel and inhumane that he rather not see anguish. This may be related to Brook’s departure from his kingdom, which is addressed later in this essay. (Fig 3-5.)

Another thing that’s worth mentioning here is Brook’s attack patterns, being unique even for his kingdom apparently. Once again, during the Ryuma fight, Brook states, and I quote;

“Ryuma: “Now tell me, what part of that wretched excuse for a body would you like me to severe with my special ‘Arrow Notch Slash?’ Brook: You don’t know a thing about that move, so do not use it’s name. I use to serve in my kingdom’s raider squad. The quick draw attack that I was most skilled at was ‘Requiem Lebanderole’. My comrades-in-arms renamed it in regards to my fighting technique.”

(Fig. 1, Brook explains his raider squad and move names. A banderole mind you is a long flag for BATTLE crusades. )

This sets up a few interesting facts. 1. Brook was in a raider squad, a kingdom’s group of marauders, as well as if not the same job as convoy leader. 

2. His techniques were unique to him, or at least specialized to a degree of having a nickname. 3. As expected, he seems to have been close to these men he commanded, adding another layer over Brook loosing the Rumbars. Being in both a raider squad and being a convoy leader at one point, if not the same point, implies either Brook was simply versatile, acting in both in separate years or periods. Or, the most likely, that he was higher ranking than expected, making him a CO, or commanding officer. (Lieutenant Colonel is another equal rank for scale, making Brook just below a Major.) This makes him quite the important figure, especially for a kingdom that seems to value its military so much, so much so that a child of Brook’s age would already know about their style of fencing, as expressed already. Brook’s devil fruit is worth mentioning here, the revive-revive fruit not likely to be found by a crew like the Rumbars. It is spoken about as if he has always had it amongst the crew, being a fact of life. However, when did he get that fruit and why? I propose where it would be useful; in combat. If your military convoy leader, your best swordsman could be shot and come right back to protect the king, would he not be utterly invaluable? You would never let him leave… But he DID leave. It’s not said why, however we have some extra tidbits of information that may tell us why, and that ALSO may tell us the answer to what kingdom he means.

( Fig. 2. Brook states his leaving of the military for unknown reasoning, the word certain being used in an odd way, establishing his bounty.) This bounty mind you all is in fact, using inflation method, 297,000,000 berries. That is a MASSIVE bounty for just a pirate. Perhaps a certain blond stole a treasure a kingdom could not replace; their convoy leader. Lets rewind for a moment and cover something that may be seen as off topic however I will come right back to the subject at hand; Calico Yorki. Yorki is an odd bird, pirate wise. He makes his crew read his bounties and information, is never shown to play an instrument/sing but makes his crew preform/they all do, and makes Brook make him dinner. (Steak, and Brook continues to be able to make it as confirmed by an SBS.) What is oddest yet, other than his large crew and shirtless habits, is his nature. A man that set to sea to play music for “orphans and crying children” as stated by himself; a crew made for “any men who love music.” Now, I could be reading into this too hard, however from his speech patterns, to this apparent need for a large family, it seems that singing to orphans may be a very personal goal. An orphan turned pirate perhaps, with lofty dreams and a heart of gold, it reads to me that Yorki may have been just that. Knowing this, orphan or not, we now can compare these facts to Brook’s life up until their meeting. A child who probably grew up being taught to fight, being around access to education, expenses and the kingdom’s training. Why would a man like Brook ever join a man like Yorki, and if it’s only music, would that not make Brook a deserter? I do not think that is the case. I will now bring forward some interesting evidence regarding Brook’s kingdom and WHY he would leave. Germa 66. During Zou to Whole Cake, a few mentions of Germa are made with Brook around, garnering interesting reactions indeed.

( Fig. 3. Brook listens but chooses not to add anything utter than silence, his music pausing as well.) This silence could be take as simple ignorance, however Brook later admits he knows of the kingdom, in fact, he knows a lot. A lot more than anyone else did, Reiju admitting interest in his knowledge and once again, Brook brushes it off.

(Fig 4, 5, Brook speaks about Germa 66.) He seems to underplay or simply not elaborate a LOT on his kingdom, as if something happened. Perhaps joining Yorki was not out of simple cowardice or need to be free, (which again if he did would both reflect poorly upon his entire character and not be in character for him what so ever,) but in fact, out of necessity. It could have been Germa 66, it could have been some other grouping, however I believe this will come to be something important. The kingdom possibilities are interesting as well, and I will list the following LIKELY possibilities. (Other options are known to not be military, like Ohara, or literally places like Thriller Bark itself.) - Toroa - God Valley - Illsia Kingdom - Soja Kingdom The most likely candidates, because again, it is labeled as certain kingdom (Fig 2.) is Toroa or Soja, however I will personally lean into Toroa. This is because of a man by the named of Byron.

(Fig 6. Byron and his information.) His nose and face shape vaguely resemble Brook, however honestly that is a stretch. What is NOT however is his familiar attire, family line and the placement of his kingdom. This could easily be Brook’s home, however again, this is just speculation. Brook very well could belong to God’s Valley, or the same kingdom as Issoh, fleeing because of something he did not agree with or literally could not stand any longer. But, that falls under possibility, not fact. This concludes the facts section, now comes the final question; What does it mean for the story? And, honestly, that can be debated. What Oda has done is plant odd seeds of information about the man, similar to Sanji and his ties to Vinsmoke, that have not been addressed nor talked about in full, or so I’ve found sufficiently. These seeds MAY bloom into what I hope will be a tie into some huge reveal, perhaps aid from a past member of his convoy or kingdom, or perhaps this will only spark conflict. Perhaps it will be minute, Brook being able to aid due to his knowledge, the man already in Thriller Bark showing his prowess by being able to command the strawhats into defeating zombies via salt and tactic. In any case, we can only hope these things mean anything, tied into some huge story that could explain why a man like him would quit for a redneck like Yorki, other than perhaps love, and what kingdom would let a man like him go willingly.

Updates:

- Confirmation that he’s educated! Perhaps in military or just as a whole, but confirmation nonetheless!

- I realize the reason he’s so confident with Big Mom isn’t just guts; he’s fought for royalty before. He’s just back in the fucking building again /j

[novelistwriter]

The Family of Halfa's

DP x DC Prompt (With other Fandoms, this prompt was inspired by "Wished Away Series")

Danny and Wes had been together for a while. Wes was, at first, not considered part of his friend group, but as time went on, Wes integrated himself as part of Team Phantom.

Now that Wes was a full ghost, and the Consort to Danny, as he is the Ghost King, Clockwork had decided that the Halfa and his Consort are the perfect option to raise the souls of those the Time Ghost takes pity on as new Halfa's with a new start, meaning these souls don't have the memories of their past lives, but powers and such related to their previous lives.

The oldest of the reborn souls they got was a boy named Adrian Agreste, but not any Adrian, the Cat Blanc Adrian, who was plucked from his timeline before it was erased and offered a second chance at life. His power is still destruction, but only when he is feeling intense negative emotions.

The second oldest, who came a few years after Adrian, was named Callum, a boy who died at the hands of the Sunfire Elves before help had arrived. He doesn't have any unique powers but is adept at the Arcane Arts than any (fully) living person.

A few months later, another soul was given to them. His name was Eli Shane, and he perished in the Eastern Caverns during the battle with the Emperor. Eli's powers allow him to access 5 elements, with him limited to one until he switches to another, Fire, Air, Earth, Water, and Energy. And because of Junjie, Eli's other Ghost Power allows him to learn any martial arts much quicker than any being.

After a year, another soul was given to them, one of a courageous young man named Link who stopped a Demon King but suffered too many injuries to be saved. His power is time related, but not too powerful. If he dodges an attack at the last second, he is able to move faster than anyone to attack his opponent for a short duration.

2 more years later, two souls were given to Danny and Wes, Keith and Lance, who perished at the hands of a mysterious foe while giving their team time to escape. Their powers are similar yet different at the same time. They both can summon spectral lions, but Keith's is red and has fire powers, while Lance's are blue and have water related powers.

Finally, 3 years later, Danny and Wes are given 5 souls of kids, kids who died participating in a war to stop a bad guy. Aang died fighting Ozai. Zuko and Katara died in the Agni kai against Azula. Toph and Sokka died when the Airship they were on crashed in the sea before Suki could arrive on time. Aang has air and animal related powers, Katara has water and ice powers, Zuko has fire and electricity powers, and Toph has earth and metal powers, Sokka doesn't have any unique powers, but is a natural leader and adept at learning how to use any type of weapon.

After the Quintuplets were reborn from Danny, the rest of the souls were as well, as Danny needed to host their cores to have them reborn as Halfa's, Danny and Wes thought that they needed to live in a dimension, and not the Keep Danny inherited, as Danny and the reborn Halfa's need to eat regular food as well ad needing Ectoplasm, and so the kids could interact with other living people and not just the Ghosts in the Infinite Realms. So they chose a random dimension with a lot of Heroes to live in, with Clockwork giving Wes a new body to be a Halfa himself.

And now the family made of all Halfa's is living in a place called Gotham, a Gothic City with enough ambient ectoplasm as Amity, but they had caught the attention of the Vigilantes of the City, as the entire family are Alternates to the people of the dimension.

Danny is an alternate younger Jason Todd, but not as Buff. Wes is an alternate younger Roy Harper, also not as buff. Adrian is an alternate Dinah Lance. Callum is an alternate and younger Hal Jordan. Eli is an alternate Lady Shiva. Link is an alternate and younger Barry Allen. Keith is an alternate Jon Kent. Lance is an alternate Damian Wayne. Aang is an alternate and younger Bruce Wayne. Katara and Sokka are alternates to Dick Grayson. Toph is an alternate and younger Cassandra Cain. Finally, Zuko is an alternate and younger Tim Drake.

[maryannecrimsworth]

The line

Pairing: Mel Medarda x Winged! Reader

Warnings: you may fall in love

Summary: a continuation of A wolf, a witch, a lover ; Mel and her new general struggle to find a common ground on their complex affair

Part 1, Part 3

Mentions: @justyourwritter69 @powderbomb-jinxed @maq34

You had to be a secret at first, and it surprised her that you were the one who suggested it. You didn’t want anyone to see her as anything less than a powerful leader. Not a woman in love, not a general’s mistress. You wanted her to be a respected queen, you understood that—understood her. There was a sparkle in her eyes when you said so, a gleam that had become familiar in her gaze. You wondered if your own eyes carried the same light when you looked at her.

Most of your daily routine didn’t change much. You both had jobs to do, people to guide, battles to avoid. Noxus was different now. Bright, civilized, pure. Many came to the pacified nation, but some left. Not all Noxians believed in peace built on alliances, so they retreated to the imperium’s outer regions, seeking places untouched by Mel’s reforms.

The colonies adapted quickly: mercy and freedom were welcomed with open arms. But peace never lasts forever. Troubles began at the borders and in the capital. Neighboring countries mistook her mercy for weakness, as you had feared, and threatened to invade Noxian territory.

You flew to the border as soon as the reports arrived. It was your duty to handle such matters—dissidents, rebels, threats. None of it should trouble the Empress while you were there.

A confrontation between the Noxian army and the trespassing militants ceased the moment you landed on the field. All eyes turned to you, paralyzed by the sight of your open wings.

The militants hesitated, retreating slightly as fear spread through their ranks.

“Where is your leader?” Your voice echoed across the tense field. The men before you were not soldiers but a loosely organized group—rebels, perhaps, or a resistance tribe.

The leader stepped forward. Your conversation with him was brief. He wanted more land and lower taxes for his tribe’s growing production. Their trespassing was born of expansion, but his arrogance grated on you. Immature and overconfident, he acted as though he were untouchable—a dangerous combination of naivety and hubris.

You offered him an audience with the Empress of Noxus, and the suggestion left him visibly stunned. He barely hid his surprise, and you chose not to acknowledge it.

The man didn’t fully realize you would personally fly him to the capital until it was too late. He clung to you, screaming most of the way.

“General,” Mel greeted you as you landed on the balcony of her private meeting room. She was alone, as usual, working late. “To what do I owe this honor?”

You bowed and quickly explained the situation. “The leader of a northern tribe wished to speak with you.” You gestured toward the man still panting on the balcony, struggling to regain his composure. “I believe you might find his proposal worth hearing.”

You turned to leave, but not before Mel’s gaze lingered on the marks his grip had left on your arm.

“I see you scared the man,” she remarked, smirking with quiet pride.

“I'm afraid it was necessary,” you replied. His bravado had shattered during the flight, ensuring he would approach the Empress with proper respect.

The negotiation was swift. The leader wanted power, and Mel had the wisdom to grant him just enough to feel important. In return, his tribe would no longer trouble the borders.

An hour later, the man left—this time in a carriage—and Mel sent for you.

“Empress,” you spoke once you entered. With a wave of her hand, she dismissed the servants and the door was closed behind you. “Am I in trouble?”

“I’m still unsure,” she admitted. “What made you bring this man to me?”

“Not all battles need to end in bloodshed,” you said. “He only needed to be heard.”

“And that was reason enough to bring an enemy into my palace?”

Your wings shifted uneasily. “He is not an enemy.”

Mel frowned but said nothing more, returning her attention to the documents on her desk.

You hesitated, then asked, “Am I missing something, ma’am?”

“Of course not. I only wished to understand your judgment.” Her tone was neutral, but something in her manner unsettled you.

After some time, you began to read her better. She loved to test people, always posing hidden questions. For you, it was exhausting—not difficult, but relentless. You often felt as though you were constantly proving yourself.

Her demeanor changed as well. More often than not, her eyes avoided yours.

One restless night, you had enough. Slipping out of your quarters, you made your way to her chambers, avoiding guards and servants. You knocked softly on the door.

It opened abruptly, and Mel pulled you inside.

“What are you doing here?” she demanded in the dark. Her room was pitch black, though it was clear she hadn’t planned to sleep.

"You seemed worried." you confessed, following her quick pace around the room. "Something's wrong." it wasn't a question.

The dim lights of the city streamed through the windows, illuminating her features and the golden tattoos on her skin as you walked over to her bed.

"I'm...I..." she fell over her bed, uneasy. You stayed at distance, watching her expression. "I don't who to trust." her weak voice almost disappeared into the silence of the night. “My assistant is dead, Jayce is gone, my mother... " a tired sight came out of her lips. "and the Black Rose lurks in the shadows. I feel surrounded by an invisible threat I can’t escape.”

You frowned, recalling the name. The Black Rose—a secretive society of Noxian aristocrats. You had thought it a myth told by soldiers to scare one another, but Mel seemed genuinely afraid.

“Is that why your council remains empty?” you asked. As a new ruler, she should have rebuilt the nation’s leadership, yet she had worked alone for months.

Mel nodded. “The noblemen are either as ruthless as my mother or entangled in something hideous. I can’t fully understand it yet, but it’s dangerous.”

“Magic often is,” you replied, sitting beside her on the bed, though you kept your distance. “As is any power in the wrong hands.”

Your words caught her attention.

“We’ll find the right people,” you said firmly. “One by one, if necessary. They exist, my Empress. Don’t let the darkness blind you to the light. The future of our nation is bright.”

Her eyes widened slightly at your words—our nation. You hadn’t meant to claim such ownership, and you quickly masked your flustered smile.

“I have a few men in mind,” you continued. “They’ll need testing, perhaps training, but they’ll build the council you need. They’ll be your eyes in the shadows.”

“A shadow unit?”

“Yes. It’s simple, but it was effective in Karyndor.”

“It’s prudent,” she said, her confidence returning. “Diplomatic, but not defenseless. Piltover could have used something like that. It might have prevented the war.”

“It's a young nation with young leaders,” you replied. “They’ll learn in time.”

“I’m glad you’re here to teach me.”

Her words caught you off guard. “You flatter me, my Empress,” you said, grateful for the darkness concealing your flushed face. “I’m only fulfilling my duty.”

Your words seemed to strike a chord, causing Mel to pull away slightly.

"Your duty?" she repeated in a whisper, her tone layered with doubt. "Is that why you came to my room, General?"

You were left speechless. Her question turned your thoughts into a chaotic whirlwind, leaving you unable to respond. Mel stood, her movements sharp and deliberate, as though expecting you to take the unspoken hint and leave.

"Draw the line for me, Mel," you said at last, her name rolling off your lips like a forbidden indulgence. The sound of it felt intoxicating, both sweet and powerful, and you craved more. Your voice dropped to a near whisper, laden with longing. "Where does my empress end and... my lover begin?"

For a fleeting moment, she hesitated, as though caught in the gravity of your words. Then, slowly, she stepped closer, her presence consuming the space between you. Her delicate fingers reached for your face, her touch a gentle yet commanding force. The soft glow from the city outside illuminated her figure, her golden tattoos gleaming faintly against the dark fabric of the night. She wore nothing but a sheer nightdress that left little to the imagination.

"For the night," she breathed, her words brushing against your lips, "I shall be your lover." Her eyes, deep and unwavering, held yours captive. "For the morning, I shall be your empress."

Yours. The word echoed in your mind, transcending the boundaries of any title and formality. You reached for her with deliberate care, your hands resting on her hips as you guided her onto your lap. Her warmth enveloped you as your arms encircled her, drawing her closer. Even your wings joined in, wrapping around her like a shield.

"Very well, my love," you whispered, the words heavy with meaning and commitment.

For the rest of the night, no titles, no politics, no duties mattered. Only the intimacy shared between you two filled the room, each movement and breath a testament to the unspoken bond you dared to explore.

[fastestmanalive333]

A List of Every Teen Titan Ever (Pre 52 Only)

The Teen Titans [1965-1979]: When the adult heroes were possessed by the evil Antithesis entity, it was up to the teen sidekicks - Robin, Kid Flash, Aqualad, Wonder Girl and Speedy - to band together to save them. Inspired by their success, the adolescent adventurers decided to remain a team - and the Teen Titans were born! Some members left and new ones emerged - even forming a Titans West sub-group. But as the members approached college, the team began to dissolve and eventually disbanded.

1. Dick Grayson [Robin/Nightwing] Joined: Brave and the Bold #60 [1965] When Dick Grayson's trapeze-artist parents were murdered, he was taken in by the Batman and became his junior partner: Robin, the Boy Wonder. As leader of the Teen Titans, Dick emerged from the shadow of his mentor and adopted the costumed identity of Nightwing.

2. Wally West [Kid Flash/Flash] Joined: Brave and the Bold #60 [1965] A bolt of lightning endowed young Wally West with super-speed, enabling him to become Kid Flash, protege to the Flash! When the Flash was slain during a great crisis, Wally became the Flash in honor of his fallen mentor.

3. Garth [Aqualad/Tempest] Joined: Brave and the Bold #60 [1965] Young Garth was abandoned by his own people because of a superstition concerning his unique purple eyes. Befriended by Aquaman, the underwater orphan became his sidekick as Aqualad! Years later, Garth discovered his secret mystic birthright and emerged as the powerful aquatic hero known as Tempest.

4. Donna Troy [Wonder Girl/Troia/Darkstar] Joined: Brave and the Bold #60 [1965] Infant Donna Troy was rescued from a fire and raised by the Titans of Myth, who gifted her with great powers. At age 13, Donna was adopted by the Amazons and became Wonder Girl in honor of her sister, Wonder Woman. Donna later embraced her true Titanic heritage and became the heroine known as Troia.

5. Roy Harper [Speedy/Arsenal/Red Arrow] Joined: Teen Titans #19 [1968], Revealed as founding member in Teen Titans #53 [1978] When Roy Harper's forest ranger father perished in a fire, Green Arrow adopted the young orphan and trained the natural-born archer as his sidekick, Speedy. Roy's time as a government agent exposed him to all manner of weaponry - leading the boy bowman to become an expert marksman as Arsenal. In honor of his mentor, Harper now fights crime as Red Arrow.

6. Lilith Clay Jupiter [Omen] Joined: Teen Titans #25 [1970] Lilith Clay - a mysterious precognitive telepath - long sought the truth behind her own parentage. Lilith later discovered her father was none other than Titans mentor, Loren Jupiter. Upon meeting her mysterious mother, Lilith's powers intensified and she adopted the persona of Omen. Lilith was later tragically killed in battle.

7. Hank Hall [Hawk] Joined: Teen Titans #25 [1970] The Lords of Chaos and Order mysteriously granted powers to teen brothers Hank and Don Hall. Pacifist Don became Dove while aggresive Hank became Hawk - both balancing the scales between might and right. Tragedy later claimed both brothers as Dove was killed in battle while Hawk became the villainous Monarch and later perished.

8. Don Hall [Dove] Joined: Teen Titans #25 [1970] The Lords of Chaos and Order mysteriously granted powers to teen brothers Hank and Don Hall. Pacifist Don became Dove while aggresive Hank became Hawk - both balancing the scales between might and right. Tragedy later claimed both brothers as Dove was killed in battle while Hawk became the villainous Monarch and later perished.

9. Mal Duncan [Vox/Guardian/Hornblower/Herald] Joined: Teen Titans #26 [1970] Streetwise Mal Duncan was invited to join the Titans by Loren Jupiter. Mal later adopted the identity of the Herald when his girlfriend Karen Beecher helped fashion a dimension-opening Gabriel's Horn for him. When a horrible accident fused Mal's sub-sonic weapons to his body, he adopted the name Vox and joined the Doom Patrol.

10. Gnarrk [Pre-Crisis] Joined: Teen Titans #33 [1971] A gentle caveman out of his own time, Gnarrk bonded with Lilith Clay before his tragic death.

11. Duela Dent [Joker's Daughter/Harlequin] [Pre-Crisis] Joined: Teen Titans #46 [1976] Duela Dent - the daughter of Earth-3's heroes, Jokester and Three-Face - developed a maddening identity crisis as she found herself constantly phasing between earths. Initially vexing Robin as The Joker's Daughter, Duela later joined the Teen Titans as Harlequin. A true wild card, demented Duela shuffled between good and evil before being slain by a rogue Monitor agent.

12. Karen Beecher Duncan [Bumblebee] Joined: Teen Titans #48 [1977] Super-smart Karen Beecher created a high-tech Bumblebee suit as part of a ruse to bolster her boyfriend Mal's reputation on the team. As a result, Bumblebee eventually joined the Teen Titans, and later married Mal as well. When exposure to a strange energy shrank her to insect height, Bumblebee joined other freakish heroes as a member of the Doom Patrol.

13. Bette Kane [Bat-Girl/Flamebird] Joined: Teen Titans #50 [1977] as founding member, Titans West An eager Robin fan, tennis pro first Batgirl and founding member of Titans West, it took some time for Bette to finally earn the respect of her Titans teammates

14. Charley Parker [Golden Eagle] Joined: Teen Titans #50 [1977] as founding member, Titans West When teen slacker Charley Parker was mysteriously gifted with Thanagarian battle armor, he thought it would be a good way to earn easy cash as Golden Eagle. Until his death at the hands of the evil Wildebeest Society

15. Garfield Logan [Beast Boy/Changeling] Joined: Teen Titans #50 [1977] as founding member, Titans West Forced to undergo an experimental procedure to save his life, Garfield Logan gained the ability to transform into any sort of animal he could imagine. Green-skinned Garfield found a new family as Beast Boy, a junior member of the Doom Patrol. Beast Boy changed his name to Changeling and later joined the Teen Titans. Known once again as Beast Boy, Gar uses his trademark humor to diffuse the most dire of situations.

Honorary: Tula [Aquagirl] Honorary Member The young orphan Tula was adopted by one the royal families of Atlantis and raised as a princess of Poseidonis. Tula later became Aquagirl when she became romantically involved with Aqualad. Their romance ended tragically when Aquagirl perished during the Crisis of Infinite Earths.

The New Teen Titans [1980-1989]: As the other-wordly demon Trigon threatened to ravage the earth, his mystical daughter Raven gathered a New Teen Titans team to thwart his plans. Former Titans were joined by all-new members and were able to repel Trigon's incursion. The Titans remained a team and grew into adulthood, as many of the teen heroes adopted more adult personas.

16. Raven Joined: DC Comics Presents #26 [1980] Daughter of an earth woman and the demonic Trigon, Raven constantly fights to keep her evil side in check. The empathic mystic sometimes fell to the dark side, but valiantly found her own inner light - oftimes at the expense of her own happiness. Raven later received a second chance at life when she was reborn in a new body.

17. Koriand'r [Starfire] Joined: DC Comics Presents #26 [1980] Young Princess Koriand'r was forced into slavery to save her home planet of Tamaran. Given to the alien Psions for experimentation, Koriand'r acquired solar-channeling abilities that allowed her to blast powerful starfbolts. Once rescued by the Titans, the passionate alien powerhouse - now dubbed Starfire - made earth her second home.

18. Vic Stone [Cyborg/Cyberion] Joined: DC Comics Presents #26 [1980] Once a promising athlete, Vic Stone was severely injured in an explosion, leading his father to save his life through cybernetic implants. A living man-machine, the once-bitter Cyborg learned to accept his new appearance and became a capable hero in his own right.

19. Tara Markov [Terra] Joined: New Teen Titans #30 [1983] Bold and brassy Tara Markov gained earth-manipulating abilities through Markovian scientist Dr. Jace. Adopting the name Terra, the bitter malcontent infiltrated the Titans as a member - while secretly acting as a spy for Deathstroke, the Terminator. After utterly betraying the Titans, Terra's own rage consumed her as she buried herself in a ton of debris.

20. Joseph Wilson [Jericho] Joined: Tales of the Teen Titans #58 [1985] As son of Slade Wilson, Joe Wilson was born with the mutant ability to possess people once he made eye contact. The gentle mute hero known as Jericho joined the Titans despite his familial ties. Long believed slain during an encounter with the Wildebeest Society, Jericho's fractured spirit survived and his body was mystically reborn. The new Vigilante later neutralized the now-insane Jericho by cutting out both his eyes.

Honorary: Kole Weathers [Kole] Honorary Member The gentle crystal spinner Kole Weathers gained powers as a product of her father's bizarre experiments. Kole was rescued by the Titans and grew close to Jericho before her untimely demise in the Crisis on Infinite Earths.

21. Danny Chase Joined: New Teen Titans [2nd] Annual #3 [1987] Telekenetic Danny Chase initially joined with the Titans to rescue his parents, who were government operatives. Danny was dismissed from the Titans because of his immaturity but secretly aided the team as Phantasm, before being slain during the final encounter with the Wildebeest Society.

The New Titans [1990-1996]: As the Titans began to enter their twenties, they dropped the "Teen" and became the New Titans. The team was then thrown into turmoil when the Titans were viciously hunted by the Wildebeest Society. Titans were lost as new allies were found - such as Pantha, Phantasm and Baby Wildebeest. Events became even more complicated when the time-tossed Team Titans from an alternate future emerged. The team remained in flux until Arsenal assembled his own team of Titans after the Zero Hour time crisis. That team soon disbanded.

22. Pantha [X-24, Real Name Unknown] Joined: New Titans #74 [1991] A result of the Wildebeest Society's macabre experiments, shy vet student Rosabelle Mendez was transformed into the were-cat known as Pantha. Suffering amnesia, Pantha long sought the truths behind her origins. Pantha's razor sharp personality was softened when Baby Wildebeest bonded with the ferocious feline as his 'mama.' Pantha and Wildebeest were later tragically killed during the Infinite Crisis.

23. Phantasm [Danny Chase, Souls of Azarath] Joined: New Titans #74 [1991] During the final battle with the Wildebeests, the Souls of Azarath bonded with Arella and Danny Chase to become a true Phantasm. Cold and aloof, the formless telekenetic entity has aided the Titans when needed.

24. Leonid Kovar [Red Star] Joined: New Titans #77 [1991] Leonid Kovar's exposure to a space ship gave him powers - enabling him to become Russia's first young hero as Starfire. Leonid later joined the Titans as Red Star and developed fiery new abilities.

25. Baby Wildebeest Joined: New Titans #85 [1992] The Wildebeest Society's strange experiments led to the creation of an actual Baby Wildebeest. In moments of extreme stress, Baby could transform into a fierce adult Wildebeest creature! Baby quickly bonded with Pantha, who he regarded as his 'mama.' Pantha and Wildebeest were later tragically killed during the Infinite Crisis.

26. Miriam Delgado [Mirage] Joined: first appeared as Team Titan in New Titans #79 [1991] Brazilian Miriam Delgado became the illusion-casting Mirage to repel Lord Chaos' brutal armies. Believing she was from an alternate future, Miri later learned she was implanted with false memories. Mirage left the Titans when she gave birth to her daughter, Julienne.

27. Tara Markov [Terra II ] Joined: first appeared as Team Titan in New Titans #79 [1991] Originating from the underground world of Strata, a young girl was injected with the first Terra's DNA in a mission to protect the earth. But "Tara Markov's" memories became tampered when she became a time-tossed member of the Team Titans. The second Terra feared she was the original Titans' traitor - but ultimately proved her heroism when she sacrificed her life trying to stop Black Adam's worldwide rampage.

28. Dagon [Nightrider] Joined: first appeared as Team Titan in New Titans #79 [1991] Once human, David was transformed into a vampire during one of Lord Chaos' macabre experiments. Adopting the vampiric name of Dagon - and the heroic name of Nightrider - David joined the Team Titans, who helped control his bloodlust. Dagon was erased from time during the Zero Hour time crisis.

29. Charlie Watkins [Killowat] Joined: first appeared as Team Titan in New Titans #79 [1991] Originally a soldier for Lord Chaos, Charlie Watkins realized the error of his ways during an accident with a bank of energy converters. Crackling with electricity, Charlie joined the Team Titans as Killowat! Killowat was erased from time during the Zero Hour time crisis.

30. Carrie Levine [Redwing] Joined: first appeared as Team Titan in New Titans #79 [1991] A mutant born with red wings, Carrie Levine joined the resistance after her parents were slain by Lord Chaos. The avian avenger even became sidekick to the future Nightwing. Redwing was erased from time during the Zero Hour time crisis.

31. Jon Levine [Prestor Jon] Joined: first appeared as Team Titan in New Titans #79 [1991] Brother to Carrie [Redwing] Levine, Jon Levine had the mutant ability to interface with computers. Joining the Teamers after his parents' death, Prestor Jon lost his corporeal form and became a living computer. Prestor Jon was erased from time during the Zero Hour time crisis.

32. Battalion [Real Name Unknown] Joined: first appeared as Team Titan in Team Titans #2 [1992] Battalion became leader to the Team Titans after his own family was brutally slain by Lord Chaos. A self-described "drill sergeant from Hell", battle-worn Battalion trained the Teamers in battle. Battalion was erased from time during the Zero Hour time crisis.

33. Bart Allen [Impulse/Kid Flash] Joined: New Titans #0 [1994] Bart Allen - grandson of the Flash - was born with hyper-velocity and was raised in a virtual reality environment in the far future. Traveling to the past, Bart became the act-before-thinking speedster who was quickly dubbed Impulse. Bart later tried to live down his impulsive ways as Kid Flash when he joined the Teen Titans.

34. Grant Emerson [Damage] Joined: New Titans #0 [1994] The biological son of the original Atom, Grant Emerson was imbued with the DNA of various Golden Age heroes by Vandal Savage. As a teen, Grant's massive energy bursts quickly earned him the name, Damage. After his face was horribly scarred in battle, the troubled teen hero developed a more explosive personality.

35. Kyle Rayner [Green Lantern] Joined: New Titans #116 [1994] Young artist Kyle Rayner was given the last known power ring in the universe and became the newest Green Lantern. As Kyle learned to become a hero, he served as a Titan for a short time.

36. Supergirl [Matrix] Joined: New Titans #121 [1995] A protoplasmic shape-shifter from a pocket universe, Matrix felt most comfortable when she adopted the form of Supergirl. Arsenal invited Supergirl into the ranks of the Titans, where she became a member for a short time.

37. Rose Wilson [Ravager] Joined: New Titans #122 [1995] As daughter to Deathstroke the Terminator, Rose Wilson's ninja-like reflexes were enhanced by flashes of precognition. After mourning her mother's death, Rose was befriended by the Titans. Seeking to reclaim his daughter, Deathstroke brainwashed Rose to become a lethal killer as the new Ravager. After losing her left eye, Ravager broke free from her father and now dispenses her own brand of hard justice.

38. Minion [Jarras Minion] Joined: New Titans #123 [1995] When Jarras Minion's planet of Talyn was destroyed, he escaped using the morphing Omegadrome battlesuit. Raised as a pacifist, Minion was at odds with his desire for revenge. His brief tenure with the Titans taught him a better way to resolve conflicts. After Minion gave the Omegadrome to Cyborg, he returned to the stars.

Teen Titans II [1996-1998]: The second group of Teen Titans were united by a common origin. The sinister H'San Natall alien race produced alien/human half-breeds to act as warrior sleeper agents on Earth. The seedlings - Argent, Risk, Joto and Prysm - were activated on their 16th birthdays. Led by the teenaged Atom, the youths joined under the auspices of former Titans mentor, Loren Jupiter. The team was later joined by Fringe and Captain Marvel Jr. After an outer-space adventure which ended the H'San Natall conflict, the team disbanded.

39. Ray Palmer [Atom] Joined: Teen Titans (second series) #1 [1996] Discovering a fragment of a white dwarf star, scientist Ray Palmer developed technology to grow and shrink as the Atom. When the adult hero was temporarily de-aged to 17 years old by the time villain Extant, he reluctantly joined - and became the leader of - the newest group of Teen Titans.

40. Toni Monetti [Argent] Joined: Teen Titans (second series) #1 [1996] The H'San Natall race produced alien/human hybrids that would be activated with super-human powers on their 16th birthdays. On that day, silver-skinned Toni Monetti learned she had the ability to control bursts of silver plasma energy. Joining the Teen Titans as Argent, Toni evolved from spoiled rich girl to capable heroine.

41. Cody Driscoll [Risk] Joined: Teen Titans (second series) #1 [1996] The H'San Natall race produced alien/human hybrids that would be activated with super-human powers on their 16th birthdays. On that day, Cody 'Risky' Driscoll learned he had fives times the speed, strength and stamina of an average 16 year old. Now dubbed Risk, daredevil Cody joined the Teen Titans. Risk became furious at the world after losing both arms in battle - prompting the teen thrill-seeker to embark on a life of crime.

42. Isaiah Crockett [Joto/Hotspot] Joined: Teen Titans (second series) #1 [1996] The H'San Natall race produced alien/human hybrids that would be activated with super-human powers on their 16th birthdays. On that day, Isaiah Crockett's average middle-class life was shattered when he learned he of his heat-manipulating powers. Taking the name Joto - which is Swahili for 'heat' - Isaiah joined the Teen Titans. Joto later adopted a new codename: Hotspot.

43. Audrey Spears [Prysm] Joined: Teen Titans (second series) #1 [1996] An alien/human hybrid, Prysm grew up as "Audrey Spears" in a virtual reality picture-perfect world based on earth's television shows. The Teen Titans pulled her out and welcomed her into their ranks. Able to absorb and reflect light, Prysm is a force to be reckoned with; But the shy and naïve heroine just wants to fit in.

44. Fringe Joined: Teen Titans (second series) #17 [1998] Abandoned as a child because of his appearance, the man-monster Fringe was raised by an alien H'San Natall entity that became his protector. The monstrous powerhouse was befriended by Prysm and joined the Teen Titans.

45. Freddie Freeman [Captain Marvel, Jr./CM3] Joined: Teen Titans (second series) #17 [1998] Crippled Freddy Freeman can harness a portion of the Shazam power by saying "Captain Marvel." The powerful teen joined the Teen Titans and developed a crush on Argent. Since then, Captain Marvel Jr. has aided the Titans when called.

The Titans [1998-2003]: After rescuing Cyborg from alien programming, the original five Titans decided to reform as a team and welcomed five other members into their ranks. The team confronted the anti-Titans group Tartarus, a new H.I.V.E, Dark Angel and a mysterious group of D.E.O. Orphans. But when Troia and Omen were seemingly slain by a rogue Superman Android, the Titans and Young Justice were so distraught that both teams died that day. Meanwhile, on the West Coast, Beast Boy and Flamebird tried to jump-start a new Titans team known as Titans L.A. - but lack of dedication put an end to the team before it truly began.

46. Jesse Chambers [Jesse Quick] Joined: Titans Secret Files #1 [1999] Jesse Chambers - daughter of Liberty Belle and Jonny Quick - inherited super-powers from her meta-human parents. Able to access super-speed powers with a phrase, Jesse became the heroine known as Jesse Quick. After losing her super-speed powers, Jesse adopted her mother's persona as the new Liberty Belle.

47. 'Hero' Cruz ['Hero'] Joined: Titans Secret Files #2 [2000] as a member of Titans L.A. On an adventure with Superboy and the Ravers, teenager 'Hero' Cruz stole the mystical H-dial from the villainous Scavanger. By dialing H-E-R-O, Hero becomes a different super-powered guise on each mission. The openly gay teenage hero joined the short-lived Titans L.A. Branch before its rapid dissolution.

48. Ryuko Orsono [Bushido] Joined: Titans Secret Files #2 [2000] as a member of Titans L.A. Japanese teenager Ryuko Orsono became the proud Bushido warrior upon his mother's death - fulfilling a long family line of honorable heroes. Bushido briefly joined the short-lived Titans L.A. Branch before his death during the Infinite Crisis.

Teen Titans III [2003-present]: Deciding the next generation of super-heroes needed a place to go, Cyborg, Starfire and Beast Boy created a new Titans Tower headquarters in San Francisco. Joined by Robin III, Superboy, Wonder Girl II and Kid Flash II, they became the latest version of Teen Titans! After Superboy's death during the Infinite Crisis, the team was thrown in turmoil and faced a year of turbulent membership changes. The team remained in constant upheaval until Robin returned and reorganized the Titans into a team, welcoming new members Ravager, Kid Devil, Miss Martian, and Blue Beetle.

49. Tim Drake [Robin III] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #1 [2003] Tim Drake learned the secret identity of Batman and petitioned to become the new Robin. At first reluctant, Batman eventually conceded and trained Tim to become the newest Boy Wonder.

50. Conner Kent [Superboy] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #1 [2003] In an attempt to clone Superman, Cadmus Labs combined the Kryptonian DNA of Superman with the human DNA of Lex Luthor. The impetuous clone escaped the lab and later became known as the hero, Superboy. The Teen of Steel later was welcomed to live in Smallville as "Conner Kent" and joined the Teen Titans while he came to grips with his true lineage.

51. Cassie Sandsmark [Wondergirl II] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #1 [2003] Upon meeting Wonder Woman, teenaged Cassie Sandsmark petitioned Zeus for powers of her own. Little did Cassie know that her true father was Zeus himself! Blessed with powers from the gods, Cassie became Wonder Girl, despite her mother's objections. As Wonder Girl, Cassie has matured from gawky adventurer to self-assured heroine.

52. Mia Dearden [Speedy II] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #21 [2005] Tough-as-nails Mia Dearden was rescued from a life on the streets by Green Arrow. But Mia's past came back to haunt her when she was diagnosed as H.I.V. Positive. Resolved to make a difference, Mia became the newest arrow-slinging heroine as Speedy, sidekick to Green Arrow.

53. Eddie "Gopher" Bloomberg [Kid Devil/Red Devil] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #34 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" ; Edward "Gopher" Bloomberg grew to idolize stuntman Dan Cassidy while working for his aunt's film company. When Dan was magically transformed into Blue Devil, Gopher fashioned his own high-tech super-suit to become Kid Devil, Blue Devil's (unwanted) kid sidekick. Eddie later made a dangerous deal with the devilish trickster, Neron, who transformed him into a honest-to-gosh red-skinned Kid Devil. After proving his mettle with the Teen Titans, Eddie beagn calling himself Red Devil.

54. M'gann M'orzz [Miss Martian ] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #34 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" M'gann M'orzz is an anomoly among her conquering White Martian race; The shape-shifting teen alien rejected her people and found her way to earth. Once there, she modeled herself after the the Justice League's Martian Manhunter as Miss Martian. Adopting the earth name "Megan Morse," the sensitive heroine strives to use her powers for good.

55. Dawn Granger [Dove II] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #34 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" The Lords of Chaos and Order originally granted powers to teen brothers Hank and Don Hall. When the first Dove was killed, his powers transferred to the pragmatic Dawn Granger. As Dove II, Dawn sought out Hawk to became an effective crime-fighting duo until Hawk became corrupted by chaos. Dove II returned from near-death to find a new Hawk in her sister, Holly.

56. Holly Granger [Hawk III] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #34 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" The Lords of Chaos and Order originally granted powers to teen brothers Hank and Don Hall - who were both lost in battle. Now, two sisters wield those same mystical powers - pragmatic Dawn Granger as Dove and her rebellious sister, Holly, as Hawk.

57. Lorena Marquez [Aquagirl II] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #34 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" ; After a genetic anomaly was introduced to the San Diego water supply, the California city sunk into the ocean. Teenager Lorena Marquez soon discovered that her body had been altered to survive the ocean depths. It wasn't long before out-spoken Lorena allied with Aquaman as the newest Aquagirl.

58. Zachary Zatara Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #34 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" As cousin to Zatanna and nephew to the late Zatara, Zachary Zatara had magic in his blood. The teen magician learned that to be true when his latent magic powers sparked as a new age of magic dawned. Now, the spoiled teen magician can get whatever he wants with a simple backwards-speaking incantation.

59. Ernie O'Brian [Offspring] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #34 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" As son of Plastic Man, Luke O'Brian inherited super-stretching powers of his own. Taking the name Offspring, Luke's exploits mix humor and heroism, much like his father. Despite his infectious sense of humor, Offspring wants to prove to the world that he's not just a walking punchline.

60. Amon Tomaz [Osiris] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]: Revealed as member during "missing year" When Amon Tomaz was severely beaten and crippled by the criminal cartel known as Intergang, Black Adam gifted the Egyptian teen with a portion of his magical abilities. Taking the name Osiris, Amon summoned the power of the gods by speaking "Black Adam." Tragically, Osiris was later devoured by his "friend", the lizard-creature known as Sobek.

60. Power Boy Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" Raised on the hellish world of Apokolips, a power-enhanced boy learned his superhuman abilities were fueled by the emotions of others. Originally an agent of Darkseid, the teen abandoned the demonic despot when he fell in love with Supergirl. Assuming the name “Power Boy,” he became a Teen Titan only to be slain in battle.

61. Little Barda Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" Hailing from the brutal world of Apokolips, Little Barda made her way to earth and joined the Teen Titans for a brief time.

62. Amy Allen [Bombshell] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" Facing jail, small-time criminal Amy Allen was recruited into a rogue military black ops unit. Grafted with extra-terrestrial metal and given military training, Amy was transformed into the quantum-wielding powerhouse known as Bombshell. Reckless as her namesake, Bombshell is learning to keep explosive personality in check.

63. Mas Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" Mas Y Menos are a pair of hyper-active high-speed twins. When connected by holding hands, the Spanish-speaking heroes can reach super-sonic speeds! But knock them apart, and they are just normal teenage boys.

64. Menos Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" Mas Y Menos are a pair of hyper-active high-speed twins. When connected by holding hands, the Spanish-speaking heroes can reach super-sonic speeds! But knock them apart, and they are just normal teenage boys.

65. Riddler's Daughter/Enimga Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" Fancying herself the "Riddler's Daughter," the inquisitive teen briefly joined the Teen Titans. After changing her name to Enigma, she defected to join Deathstroke's nefarious Titans East. Her true parentage and history are as puzzling as her namesakes.

66. Talon Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" On the parallel world known as Earth-3, evil versions of the Justice League use their human abilities to terrorize the planet. As an evil analogue to Batman, Owlman likewise adopted a young Robin-like sidekick named Talon. After Talon betrayed his mentor by falling in love with Joker's Daughter, he fled Earth-3 for another earth.

67. Molecule Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" The super-shrinking adventurer known as Molecule joined the Teen Titans for a short time after the events of Infinite Crisis. Molecule was later murdered by the Terror Titans.

68. Young Frankenstein Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #38 [2006]; Revealed as member during "missing year" The teenaged man-monster known as Young Frankenstein joined the Teen Titans for a short time after the events of Infinite Crisis. The creature's heroism later led to his death at the hands of Black Adam. But a bolt of lightning revived the behemoth - and Young Frankenstein was free to walk the earth once more.

69. Anima Joined: Teen Titans East Special #1 [2007] A bite from an alien parasite utterly transformed runaway teenager Courtney Mason - allowing her to channel the Animus, a living embodiment of mankind's rage. Courtney then became the wandering heroine known as Anima, helping those in need by calling upon the fearsome force inside her. Anima was later slain while battling Prometheus.

70. Son of Vulcan Joined: Teen Titans East Special #1 [2007] Shortly after Vulcan recruited orphan Miguel "Mikey" Devante as his sidekick, the flame-wielding hero was slain by an evil White Martian. Before he died, Vulcan gifted his fire-based powers to Mikey and equipped the inexperienced hero with an arsenal of weaponry. In honor of his fallen mentor, Mikey has sworn to continue the legacy of the Son of Vulcan!

71. Lagoon Boy Joined: Teen Titans East Special #1 [2007] Though young and slight of build, the aquatic young mutant known as Lagoon Boy can inflate his body like a puffer fish to intimidate predators and foes. His love for the surface world united him in friendship with the mutated whale, Bludder, and the Trironian mermaid, Sheeva. Eventually, Lagoon Boy's travels led him to meet other teen heroes and become part of their community.

72. Kara Zor-El [Supergirl] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #50 [2007] Kara Zor-El was sent to Earth in a rocket ship at roughly the same time as her cousin, Kal-El, but aged at a slower rate in suspended animation. Years after Kal-El became Superman, Kara crashed to Earth and soon adopted the name Supergirl. Despite her stong-willed bravado, the Kryptonian teen is still trying to discover what she wants to be.

73. Jaime Reyes [Blue Beetle] Joined: Teen Titans (third series) #61 [2008] When the mystic scarab of the Blue Beetle fused to the spine of Jaime Reyes, a new Blue Beetle was born! The Texas teen learned the alien artifact could expand to create a super-powered carapace around his body, enabling him to become El Paso's super-powered protector from threats both criminal and magical.

Titans Allies: Over the years, the Titans have amassed a set of friends and allies in their never-ending battle against evil. Some have been lost in battle and others still aid the Titans when called.

Loren Jupiter First Allied: Teen Titans #25 [1970] Wealthy philanthropist Loren Jupiter funded the original Titans team for a time - as well as Atom's Teen Titans much later. Jupiter later was revealed as the father of Titans' psychic Lilith Clay and Titans' foe, the illusion-casting Haze.

The Doom Patrol First Allied: The Doom Patrol #104 [1966] Victims of cruel fate, three individuals were given strange powers that made them outcasts from society. United by their wheelchair-bound leader known as "The Chief," the oddball adventurers - Robotman, Elasti-Girl and Negative Man - became underground heroes as the Doom Patrol! Although the membership has changed through the years, the Doom Patrol has always offered freakish pariahs the chance to become heroes.

Steve Dayton [Mento/Crimelord] First Allied: New Teen Titans #13-15 [1981-1982] Smitten with Elasti-Girl of the Doom Patrol, millionaire inventor Steve Dayton fashioned a psionic helmet and became the self-styled super-hero, Mento. Elasti-Girl and Mento wed - and adopted Beast Boy as their son. Although the Mento helmet has pushed him to the brink of insanity, Dayton has learned to tame his inner demons.

Arella [Angela Roth] First Allied: New Teen Titans #5 [1980] Impregnated by the demon Trigon, Angela Roth found refuge in the peaceful city of Azarath, where she adopted the name, Arella. There, she gave birth to Raven and protected her from Trigon's evil. Arella's devotion to her daughter led to her death during an encounter with the Wildebbest Society.

Frances Kane [Magenta] First Allied: New Teen Titans #17 [1982] When Frances Kane's magnetic powers manifested, the insecure teen believed she was possessed by demons. Her childhood sweetheart, Wally West, pulled her back from the brink of insanity. Frances later adopted a meta-human persona as Magenta, but found her powers fractured her mind - violently shifting her personality from positive to negative.

Adrian Chase [Vigilante] First Allied: New Teen Titans Annual #2 [1983] When his family was brutally killed by mobsters, District Attorney Adrian Chase took the law into his own hands as the gun-toting Vigilante. As Vigilante's methods became more extreme, Chase entered into a state of self-loathing and took his own life.

Jason Hart [The Protector] First Allied: The New Teen Titans #1 (Drug Awareness Giveaway) [1983] High school student Jason Hart became alarmed at the nation's growing drug problem. Allied with the Teen Titans, resourceful Jason became the crime-fighter known as The Protector and took to the streets to wage a war on illegal narcotics.

Gan and Tavis Williams [Thunder & Lightning] First Allied: New Teen Titans #32 [1983] The offspring of a Vietnamese woman and an alien entity, Gan and Tavis Williams manifested uncontrollable elemental powers. Dubbed Thunder & Lightning, the Teen Titans and S.T.A.R. Labs contained the duo and uncovered the truths behind their origins. Since then, the elemental twins have become trusted allies to the Titans as well as protectors of S.T.A.R. Labs.

Adeline Kane Wilson First Allied: Tales of the Teen Titans #42-44, Annual #3 [1984] The ex-wife of the mercenary, Deathstroke, Adeline Kane formed her own detective agency, Searchers, Inc. Adeline was mother to the Titan, Jericho as well as Titans' foe, The Ravager. After a blood transfusion from Deathtroke, Adeline gained immortal powers and was driven insane. Addie later became Mistress of the criminal organization, H.I.V.E., and was destroyed in battle.

Azrael [Real Name Unknown] First Allied: Tales of the Teen Titans #52 [1985] When a mysterious winged alien was unthawed from a block of ice, he immediately fell in love with Lilith Clay. When Lilith left, the distraught alien became duped into Brother Blood's cult - where he was given the name, Azrael. Eventually freed from Blood's thrall, Azrael once again flies free.

Jason Todd [Robin II] First Allied: New Teen Titans (second series) #19-21 [1986]

After attempting to steal the wheels off the Batmobile, brash street urchin Jason Todd met the Batman. Becoming the second Robin, Jason's fiery temperament led to his apparent death at the hands of the Joker. But Jason has returned from death to wage a violent war on crime on his own terms.

Chris King [Dial "H" for HERO] First Allied: New Teen Titans (second series) #45-46 [1988] When Chris King and Vicki Grant stumbled upon two mystical dials, they discovered they could transform into a different super-powered persona each time they dialed H-E-R-O! When Vicki went rogue, Chris sought the Titans for help. Since then, King has learned to internalize his transformations and aids the Titans when called.

Slade Wilson [Deathstroke, The Terminator] First Allied: New Titans #71 [1990] A hard-edged mercenary, Slade Wilson, a.k.a. Deathstroke the Terminator, fulfilled any contract he undertook. The chemically-enhanced assassin accepted the contract to kill the Titans on his dead son's behalf. But when Slade's attempts to kill the Titans led to ruin, he abandoned the contract and even became their ally on occasion. After losing those close to him, Slade returned to his violent ways.

William Randolph Wintergreen First Allied: Tales of the Teen Titans #42-44, Annual #3 [1984] Slade Wilson disobeyed orders to save the life of British soldier, William Randolph Wintergreen - earning a debt Wintergreen intended to repay in kind. Wintergreen catalogued Slade's exploits as the mercenary, Deathstroke the Terminator, often serving as his moral conscience. Wintergreen's devotion to Slade ultimately led to his death.

Pat Trayce [Vigilante II] First Allied: Deathstroke #6-9 [1991-1992] Tough Gotham Detective Pat Trayce - frustrated with the revolving-door justice system - became the Vigilante in an effort to punish the man who killed her partner. Trained by Deathstroke, Vigilante found herself in a tumultuous on-again/off-again affair with the famed mercenary. Trayce also runs a search & rescue operation known as Vigilance.

Sarge Steel First Allied: New Titans #100 [1993] Sarge Steel earned his nickname when the tough soldier's hand was replaced with a steel alloy appendage after a rigged hand grenade cost him his left hand. Steel later became a high ranking government operative in both the Central Bureau of Intelligence and Checkmate. When the government assumed control of the New Titans, Sarge Steel often clashed with then-leader, Arsenal.

Neil Richards [Mad Mod] First Allied: Teen Titans (second series) #2 [1996] The madcap Mad Mod clashed with the original Teen Titans when the outrageous villain attempted to use his clothing design label as a smuggling operation. The criminal of Carnaby Street eventually reformed and befriended Titans' mentor, Loren Jupiter.

Sasha Martens and Wiley Wolverman [Hawk & Dove III] First Allied: JLA/Titans #1-3 [1998] Army brat Sasha Martens and laidback musician Wiley Wolverman had only one thing in common: Both were part of a secret government experiment designed to genetically engineer meta-humans. Now sprouting wings at will and powered with sonic shrieks, the mismatched duo became the newest Hawk & Dove.

Epsilon [Real Name Unknown] First Allied: Titans #21-22 [2000] The Department of Extranormal Operations [D.E.O.] established an orphanage full of super-powered young charges. The psychotic orphan known as Epsilon was possessed by fellow orphan, Kevin Tanaka, who secured safe haven for his friends at Titans Tower. After the real Epsilon burst free, he destroyed the tower in a battle that seemingly claimed his own life as well.

The D.E.O. Orphans [Grace, Zeke, Eli, Scrap, Nikki and Kevin] First Allied: Titans #27-29 [2001] Six meta-human orphans - Grace, Zeke, Eli, Scrap, Nikki and Kevin - fled the Department of Extranormal Operations [D.E.O.] to secure safe haven at Titans Tower headquarters. The plan backfired when Epsilon emerged and destroyed Titans Tower, resulting in the death of D.E.O. orphan, Kevin Tanaka. After that tragedy, Nightwing intervened on their behalf, and the kids returned to a restructured D.E.O. Orphanage.

Krypto First Allied: Teen Titans #7 [2004] Rescued from an alternate universe, the Kryptonian canine known as Krypto was brought back to earth by Superman. After a disasterous stay in Metropolis, Superboy was charged to care for the super-pup.

Wendy & Marvin First Allied: Teen Titans #34 [2006] The clever criminal known as The Calculator fathered twin children, Wendy and Marvin, both of whom shared his advanced intellect. The super-smart siblings acted as caretakers to the Titans Tower after they graduated M.I.T. on their sixteenth birthday - until Marvin was slain by King Lycus' vicious hellhound.

Atlee [Terra III ] First Allied: Terror Titans #1 [2008] Born in the underground world of Strata, young Atlee possessed earth-manipulating abilities unique to her people. Destined to protect Strata's future, optimistic Atlee journeyed to the surface to defend the earth as Terra.

[uniteds]

stuff that happened in the 2022/2023 football season that should send us into a coma but we’re too desensitized:

1. the whole ass world cup in the middle of the season. what was that

2. manchester united sacking ronaldo and announcing a sale of the club in the middle of the world cup

3. ronaldo getting dropped at the world cup and his replacement scoring a hattrick immediately after

4. keeping up with the belgians (world cup edition)

5. keeping up with the belgians (courtois saying he doesn’t respect kdb after stealing his missus)

6. ronaldo stans beefing with a little moroccan girl

7. the kingdom of saudi arabia buying newcastle united and then telling the premier league that they didn’t and the premier league going “oh okay if you say so”

8. megan thee stallion being romelu lukaku’s date to lautaro martinez’s wedding

9. pique cheating on shakira and then shakira releasing a diss track about it

10. shakira figuring out pique cheated on her because someone ate her strawberry jam and pique doesn’t eat strawberry jam

11. apparently the girl pique cheated on shakira with (clara) cheating on pique with pep

12. wagatha christie libel case

13. real madrid dropping a video accusing barcelona of fascism and the government of cataluyna getting involved

14. the pope coming out as a manchester united fan

15. the one napoli fan that basically made zielinski strip on the pitch

16. mount vesuvius park shutting down because napoli fans wanted to fake an eruption as a celebration

17. frank lampard taking everton into a relegation battle, getting sacked, and then taking chelsea into a relegation battle

18. on that note: chelsea were in a relegation scrap and finished 12th

19. mourinho lost his first ever european final to sevilla europa league black magic

20. whatever the fuck borussia dortmund did on the last day of the bundesliga season

21. anthony martial’s ex wife chasing his first wife down a french motorway with a baby in the passenger seat

22. psg suspending messi because he took an unsanctioned trip to saudi arabia and then unsuspending him two days later because they didn’t want people talking about geopolitics

23. the absolutely bizarre messi apology video released by psg

24. spurs refunding their fans’ tickets after being embarrassing

25. pep’s heartbreak over the fact julia roberts is a manchester united fan

26. chelsea scored one goal in the month of april

27. chelsea and spurs had six managers between them and won one match combined between march and april

28. mourinho fighting anthony taylor after the europa league final

29. milan derby in the ucl for the first time since 2005

30. luis enrique saying he’s cool with the spanish players having sex during the world cup as long as they’re not having orgies

31. luis enrique saying he doesn’t have sex anymore unless his wife wants to

32. man city charged with 115 counts of financial doping and trying to get the barrister in charge disqualified because he’s an arsenal fan

33. mourinho wire-taping himself to catch referees being corrupt

34. ryan reynolds and mac from it’s always sunny in philadelphia buying a football club and that football club getting promoted

35. pele died rip

36. women football awards sponsored by shein and klarna having a category for “male football ally of the year” and it’s just random men that went to one (1) women’s game

37. barcelona negreia case (how do you say calciopoli in catalan?)

38. infantino saying he feels gay, african, like a migrant worker, disabled, arab, and qatari

39. infantino saying he was oppressed as a child because he was ginger and italy is not safe for gingers

40. david alaba’s father in law getting arrested for being one the leaders of a far right group plotting to overthrow the german government

41. richarlison being tumblr’s it girl for a month and then not scoring a goal for the next four

42. juventus being in the middle of another corruption scandal and being docked points because of it

43. two teams getting investigated by the british government for playing football the weekend the queen died

44. gavi getting a yellow card in the first minute of a football match

45. pogba’s brother was arrested by french authorities for being part of a group-organized extortion attempt against pogba

46. richarlison getting a tattoo of neymar’s face and neymar paying him 30k to get it removed

47. iker casillas coming out, puyol implying they had a thing, and both of them retracting it in the most misha collins way possible.

48. sane and mane fight

49. zlatan retired from football

50. barca withholding about 50 million in wages from their players and somehow frenkie still didn’t want to join manchester united

[meowsgirldrawing]

Astarion has Tav around his finger and everyone knows it..(Astarion x GN Tav)

Just a small headcannon of mine, hehehehe. Especially for my Tav and Astarion.

Note: Slight suggestive stuffz (Nothing explicit, mostly Astarion's teasing), mentions towards Tiefling Tav who's tall cause that's cute. Some cussing. Durge gets mentioned here as it's my personal head cannon that they are part of the group, just not the leader.

Word Count: 1,084

Masterlist: Here

AO3: Here

Everyone knows Astarion has Tav wrapped around his finger. 

Everyone.

Their fellow adventurers obviously, having watched the couple grow in their very campsite. Random folks they come across long enough to hear the banter between the two, which with Astarion’s need for constant teases and digs into Tav’s constant need to help every miserable stray they come across, happens quick enough. 

Overall, everyone and their mother knows it. Everyone and their mother can see it. 

See how much Astarion has their calm hearted leader sweetly wrapped around his finger without him having to even lift it. 

It was clear to Gale when Astarion threw a simple but meaningful glance at the Necromancy of Thay book they found safely tucked away behind traps of all kinds. Instead of giving it to him, the proudly pronounced wizard of the group. Durge had to jokingly soothe his feelings over that one. 

In reality, he didn’t mind it that much. Just rolls his eyes and ignores the small smile wanting to grow on his lips every time he sees Tav giving him yet another book that has the vampire reading for hours afterwards. 

Shadowheart already knew the moment Tav kept coming up to her nearly every morning, holding their neck and blushing up a storm. One glance to Astarion’s poorly hidden grin behind his book and Tav’s inability to keep eye contact, had her shooting down their apologies quick.

‘No you’re not.’ she said, hand flared up in Cure Wounds spell. 

Their tail simply curled up tighter on their leg as their blush deepened. 

Lae’zel simply scoffed at the idea, always watching as Tav reluctantly let Astarion go off to loot their now dead enemies belongings. 

‘They won’t need it anymore, darling, remember?’ He chirped with a wink. 

Still, she later had to give respect where it was due. Afterall, they had to bravely put up with her insistence to hurry it all up so they could get to the Creche faster. All as Astarion was behind them both, taking his sweet time to find his new treasures. 

Wyll laughed at the idea. Tav and him usually share many ideals amongst the group. Protect the innocents, take down the monsters. 

But for Tav to turn around and protect their own little monster in elf form, he can’t deny his happiness for his friends. 

Though he wished there was less need for blood in some situations. 

Like Tav subtly telling Astarion to cool it in the midst of talking with the Gur man, who didn’t realize-in short- just how fucked up Astarion’s situation actually is. 

The hopeless romantic one in him was in fact grinning proudly when Tav used their towering height to glare down the drow for her disgusting persistence towards Astarion. Especially when he caught them hugging hours later, Astarion looking for once the most relaxed ever. Like a cat curled up in their favorite person’s presence.

Karlach cooed and awed over it just as much as Wyll to be honest. She was full of grins and teases as she battled alongside the rogue in the field. Not just towards Astarion though, no. She threw the same treatment at Tav anytime she could.

Astarion could smirk and throw a line out like, “ Do take it easy, my love! You’ll need that energy later, afterall!” that had Tav glaring at him as they blocked off an enemy coming for their throat. Their flushing cheeks evident to everyone that it wasn’t from the battle anymore.

Karlach snickered, adding a little “ Just keep it down for us single-people, yeah Fangs?”

His smirk only grew with his grin, “No promises, dear.”

Her head tipped back in a laugh before she slaughtered down another fucker. 

Halsin squints his eyes at it with a fond smile.

Astarion batted his eyes at Tav the moment he saw the grease-filled flooring in the sewer in front of them all. 

‘If I have to go into a damned sewer of all things, I should at least be able to save something dear to me.’ His reason when he requested to be held across as they passed over it. Granted it took a minute, Tav crossing their arms and squinting their eyes down at the shorter elf. The bigger one holding his chuckle at the sight alone. 

Halsin did offer to carry him himself, but one glance from him and back to Tav told him everything. He wants Tav to carry him. 

And -unsurprisingly- surprisingly…they did. Astarion curled up with a giddy grin, clutching their shoulders as they suppressed their grin with a faux grimace. One kiss on their cheek had it peaking through however. 

He smiled at the small light they shared together despite the horrors of the world, praying that’ll always shine bright for them for however long it can. 

And laughed loudly the moment Tav’s foot slipped and had them crashing into the greasy puddle. Not without keeping Astarion to fall on them, safe and sound of course. 

Everyone knows Astarion has Tav wrapped around his finger…including the two of them.

“The things I do for you...” Tav grimaced as Astarion leaned back, tongue licking up the excess blood dribbling down his chin. It’s quick his grin appears. A sight like that would set others on edge, reaching for their weapons. For Tav, they scoff and wipe it with their thumb. 

Astarion is too fast in licking it off there too, a wink thrown their way that has them glaring once more. 

“Ah yes, the things you do for me..” His arms clutch their shoulders, wrapped around as their’s circle his waist again. Keeping him safe on their lap. 

He awws their pout, “You can just let me go then if you hate this so much, you know.”

Their grip tightens, as does the tail around his right thigh. 

“Quiet and finish up, alright? By the rate you're going, the sun will be up before you get even 3 gulps done.”

His eyes match the mirth in his smile, relaxed and happy that has their heart doing summer-salts. He tilts head sideways. “Oh, but of course, my love. Afterall, I wouldn’t want you to grow bored.”

Tav’s eyes soften. They know he’s merely joking, but they still kiss his cheek as sweetly. Feeling his eyes flutter in his happy hum. “Like I’d ever get bored of you.”

“I know.” He simply agrees before connecting with their neck once again. Making sure to keep it as gentle and kind to them as they always do for him.

[shadowdaddies]

Hello girly, there is so little fics about Tarquin, so can I please request a Tarquin x mate!reader. Where she is a quiet and kind female, it would be cool if she was a "lesser fae" (like she has a tail or horns). She loves him and doesnt really want a role in court, she just wants to be there for him. Maybe the high lords dont know much about her, and there is a High Lords meeting and she randomly appears (maybe pregnant) and just some fluff, and Mor, Feyra and Viv being happy because there is another female to be frainds with

ahh I love this, there's definitely not enough fics for Prythian's Most Eligible Bachelor™. Thank you for the request!

Less is More

Tarquin x Reader

warnings: this does get a little steamy at the end

Taking practiced, steady breaths, you forced your pounding heart to slow and plastered on a confident smirk as you took long strides through the open doors.

Your hand was slick with sweat against Tarquin’s, your mate giving a reassuring squeeze while he guided you to walk slightly in front of him. Were you a weaker faun, you would have been smothered by the table’s gazes burning into you, but you were not weaker. You were a “lesser faerie” - or so that was your title given from the old High Fae - but you were High Lady of the Summer Court, and remembering that put the strength in your spine you needed as you took your seat.

Tarquin took his place next to you, turquoise eyes swimming with pride as he drank in the attention from the room. He feigned nonchalance, pressing a kiss to your knuckles before resting your hand atop his against the table. “Ah yes,” he laughed softly, raising your joined hands in display for the group of High Lords and Ladies. “Allow me to introduce my mate, the High Lady of the Summer Court.”

You smiled, unable to control the blush that bloomed upon your cheeks as Feyre gave you a polite smile and nod, Rhysand and Kallias both granting quiet congratulations. 

It was Viviane who smirked, reclining back in her seat as she loosed a dramatic sigh. As the second High Lady in Prythian’s history after Feyre along with what you’d heard of her, you liked the female already. “It’s nice to have another High Lady at the table. Perhaps soon enough, each court will recognize their females as equals.”

Her icy blue eyes sparkled with amusement at the sight of flames on Beron’s fingertips, the High Lord of Autumn’s focus having never moved from the horns on your head, perfectly framed by your royal crown.

Conversely, Tarquin’s own stare never faltered, watching Beron with a predator’s gaze. He knew better than to bait the other High Lords - Tarquin found it better to rule as himself, a kind yet firm leader - and you admired him impossibly more for it.

“Welcome, High Lady. Let us begin,” Helion purred, his smooth voice emanating a deep power that seemed to bring Beron out of whatever anger-filled haze he was lost in. Murky brown eyes whipped to Helion, who returned the acknowledgment with a slight arch of his brow.

“Beron, if there is something you wish to lead the meeting with, please do so,” Helion drawled, his demeanor remaining cool despite noticeable efforts not to look past Beron to where the Lady of Autumn was seated. You made a mental note to ask Tarquin about that later, focused on keeping your chin high for the moment.

Beron’s eyes flicked between you and Feyre - the lesser fae and former human at the table - but wisely he remained silent. “Continue, Helion,” Beron ground out, and you had to bite back your smile at Rhys and Feyre’s wicked grins, darkness recoiling from where it had been ready to strike.

You sat through the meeting, listening to male egos battle each other over petty squabbles, only interjecting as you and Tarquin found necessary. It was easy to find where you would fit in with this group. While it was clear Autumn would never accept you and Dawn was ambivalent, you felt a fast kinship towards Night and Winter - unsurprising, given those courts were who your wise mate was most drawn to.

As soon as the meeting ended, Beron quickly cleared, leaving the Lady of Autumn to scurry behind him. Your heart hurt for her, her eyes tired as her eldest son seemed to be the only person who paid her any mind. The other High Lords dispersed, only Night and Winter lingering behind with Tarquin and you. 

“Finally, that’s over!” the Night Court’s emissary, Morrigan, practically squealed as she maneuvered around the table to you, enveloping you in a warm hug. 

A surprised laugh escaped you at her kind and gentle touch, the dichotomous nature of the Night Court’s leaders jarring despite Tarquin’s advance notice.

“So, would you tell us the story of how you and Tarquin met?” Viviane pressed, her arm looping through yours as Feyre fell into step alongside the both of you. You were surprised at how easy it was to talk with them - both High Fae from such different backgrounds - but you felt beyond blessed by the Mother for not only allies, but new friends through your role.

The crescent moon was high in the sky, stars twinkling impossibly bright when you felt the heavy need for sleep weigh upon you. You hadn’t even noticed your eyes struggling to stay open until familiar hands draped a jacket over your shoulders, and you stirred to see Feyre, Morrigan, and Viviane all slowly rising. 

Bidding each of them a good night, you leaned into Tarquin’s warmth, savoring the calming scent of coconut and sea spray while he pressed a soft kiss to the top of your hair. He led your to the shared room in which you were staying, closing the door gently behind before peeling his jacket from your shoulders.

A whine escaped you at the sudden cold, and your mate chuckled, arms wrapping around you fully this time. Enveloped in his warmth, you settled against Tarquin’s chest and swayed to a silent melody, the rhythm of the ocean.

“You were incredible tonight,” he murmured against your neck. “You are always incredible, and yet you always blow me away with your grace and wisdom.” 

He pressed another lingering kiss to your shoulder, working his way up to hover near your ear. Teeth tugged lightly on the skin of your earlobe, your mind growing dizzy with the sensations when he whispered, “I am so thankful, and honored, to have you as my mate and High Lady.”

Feeling the weight of the crown against your horns, you couldn’t help but tease him. “Horns and all?” but Tarquin’s eyes grew darker, turquoise eyes like a brewing sea storm. 

He pulled your head to his toned chest, tongue flicking out against one of those sensitive horns. You mewled at the motion, the scent of the room changing with the fervor of arousal growing. 

“Especially these,” he breathed, hoisting your legs around his hips before turning to toss you onto the mattress. You bounced against the silken sheets with a giggle, watching your mate lift his shirt over his head while his gaze raked unabashedly over every inch of your figure. 

“Every part of you is perfect,” Tarquin whispered, white hair aglow in the light from the window, eyes shining with mischief as his body slid sinfully against your own. 

“I love you,” you whispered, legs wrapping around his waist as you pulled him in for a passionate kiss. He once again kissed his way down your body, this time peeling away the fabric of your dress as he did so. Your consciousness drifted away at his touch, carnal feeling and deep emotion invading your senses while the only thought you could manage was that “forever is not long enough with this male.”

[holdmytesseract]

would you pls write some daryl x fem!reader where reader opts to join rick and the group at grady. maybe she helped beth&carol. reader is abt 25 ish and was a nurse.

maybe after the saviours fought hilltop, reader got shot by an arrow but carried on fighting next to carol. she calls for daryl when she passes out

Caught in the Headlights

Daryl Dixon x fem!Reader

Summary: When you get hit by an arrow, Daryl is seemingly all your brain can think about...

Warnings: TWD things, the Saviors, blood, weapons, fluff, injuries, Daryl being a liiiil' bit ooc?

Set in Season 8/mentions of season 5!

Word Count: 1,3k

a/n: I had to change things up a lil' bit. Hope you, dear nonny, like it anyway! Thank you for requesting! ☺️

Daryl Masterlist °☆• Masterlist °☆• Echoes of Hope Masterlist

"If you wanna come with us... Jus' step forward now," the man stated with a shaky voice; definitely close to crying - but the words never reached your brain. You were too shocked at what just happened; staring with tears in your eyes at the very familiar dead bodies. It didn't have to be this way. It shouldn't have been this way.

Only when you heard the sound of doors and footsteps did you wake up from your stupor. Your eyes lifted; watching as the group who changed your life and especially the view of the Grady Memorial leave.

"Wait!" Your voice echoed across the hallway. Rick - the leader of the group as you learned, stopped in his movements, while the others continued to leave; also shocked by what just happened. Just like everybody.

He turned to face you. You swallowed nervously. "I-I wanna join you. Please? I-I've got nothing left here and... and I wish to help bury Beth." You swallowed hard once again; needing to suppress the tears.

From the first second they had brought Beth in, you tended to her; helped her to get back to health and adjust to the life here at the Grady. Just like you tended to Carol, when she got brought in as well.

You haven't looked back since.

"A-And I'd like to stick with my patient." Your eyes darted to Carol. "She'll need medical care."

Rick listened to your every word, before he started to nod. "I-I offered, so... Come." You stepped forward and followed Rick, but you couldn't help but to turn and look; exchanging a last look with your former 'colleagues'.

Maggie's 'battle cry' catapulted you back to the here and now. Hilltop. The Saviors attack. You swallowed hard and started to fire; shooting as many enemies as somehow possible. Bullets flew all around you; leaving a blood bath behind. From not knowing how to use a gun at all, you had become a very good shot over the months and years.

It looked quite good for Hilltop at the beginning, but then the Saviors started to fire back - with arrows. You quickly duck down behind one of the cars.

"Y/N, you okay?!" You heard Tara's voice call out to you from behind another car. "Yeah, I'm good!" You hollered back through the noises of screams and gunfire. Little did you know that only a few minutes later, you'd have to rephrase that sentence...

You focused again; trying to take down Saviors. Unfortunately, you neither Tara saw the approaching threat... Simon and Dwight sneaking up on - but someone else did...

"Y/N! Tara!" Daryl's voice cut through the air. Tara was luckily able to quickly jump into safety, but for you it was too late. Searing pain shot through your system as Dwight's arrow hit you. You felt how your gun glided out of your hands and your legs gave in underneath you. The last thing you saw was a blurred vision of Tara and Carol; both of your friends hovering over you, before the world around you turned black and the noises deafened.

Faint echoes of voices and different sounds pulled you back in the here and now. Slowly, you blinked your eyes open. Your eyesight was still a bit blurry and the lights of the room were blinding, but once your eyes were able to adjust, you recognised that you were laying inside a cot in a trailer. A blanket was loosely draped over your form. Your muscles felt heavy and stiff, so you decided to move them. But when you tried to shift on the cot, pain shot through your whole body. You hissed; hand immediately moving to your left side and noticing the bandage around your waist.

You remembered... The Saviors. The fight. Dwight shooting you.

"Y/N?" A familiar voice called out for you suddenly. Carol. She stepped in your field of view; crouching down beside you. "Hey, Y/N." You smiled at her. "Hey," you croaked out; causing your friend to instantly hand you a canteen with water and helping you drink.

"How are you feeling?" Smiling, you shrugged your shoulders. "Quite okay for being drilled by an arrow." Carol couldn't suppress the giggle which escaped her lips; shaking her head at you.

After what happened yesterday was your cover most likely blown. You thought having a crush on the archer was your well-kept secret. Seemingly not anymore...

"I didn't do anything weird while I passed out, did I?" Carol gave you a smile, which melted into a mischievous grin and she shook her head once more. "No, you didn't, don't worry. You just called out for Daryl."

Her answer caused you to almost choke on your water; eyes wide in shock. "Uh, wha'? I-I called out for Daryl?" "Yeah, you did. Repeatedly," Carol confirmed; still with that smirk on her lips. "R-Repeatedly?" "Repeatedly." You blushed; feeling your cheeks heat up.

"Does, uh, does he know?" Carol's lips twitched into a smile again. "'Course he knows. I mean... We couldn't leave your request unanswered, could we?" She shrugged her shoulders. "Daryl was here until about half an hour ago. If you would've woken up sooner, you'd have looked at you fairytale prince, not at me."

You blushed even more - if that was physically possible. "No need to be embarrassed. You should talk to him, you know." Your friend giggled and stood up again, "Call if you need anything. Enid should be around somewhere, too." before she left.

Your friend told you to not feel embarrassed, but oh you did. Especially because Daryl knew. God knows what you did during the time he was here and you weren't 'yourself'...

Taking another sip from your canteen, you took a deep breath and this time rolled over to stand up. You needed fresh air - and talk to the archer. No matter what.

So, you left the trailer - still a bit on wobbly feet, but it was okay. You were a nurse after all and knew what you were doing here. Or rather, what you could do and what not.

The daylight felt nice on your skin, without a doubt. You enjoyed the soft breeze in your hair and took another deep breath. Then you started to search for Daryl - not long, though...

He was just passing by the trailer; seemingly on his way somewhere.

"Daryl, hey!" You called out for him; causing the man to stop in his movement to turn and face you. His eyes widened slightly when he saw you. "Hey," he greeted you and stepped closer. "Ya shouldn't be out here, y'know?" You waved a dismissive hand and smiled. "I'm good. I feel better already." Daryl gave you a nod and shook a few wild curls out of his face. "Yeah, but a lil' more rest woulda be good. Lost quite some blood yesterday."

The word 'yesterday' suddenly reminded you why you were here to talk with him.

"I'll get some rest later, yeah? I, uh, I needed some fresh air and... And wanted to talk to you." "Talk ta me? 'Bout wha'?" You swallowed; fumbling your fingers nervously. "About yesterday... Carol told me a-and I know she told you, so, uh... I am sorry." Visible confusion was on Daryl's face. "Sorry? Why 'r ya sorry?" You blinked. "Uh, 'cause it's quite embarrassing."

Then something quite rare happened. Daryl gave you a small, almost mischievous smile. "Embarrassin', huh?" He shook his head and boldly reached out to take your hand. "I'd rather say 's quite cute." The archer squeezed your hand gently, then let go again and walked away.

As for you, you were like frozen; needing to process first what happened. But once you did, you started to smile. "Cute? He thinks I'm cute?" You couldn't help but giggle, as you made your way back inside the trailer.

Tags: @suniloli @stitchintimefan @in-this-minute @loz-3 @fictive-sl0th @fuseburner @mandywholock1980 @celtic-crossbow @lou12346789 @mischief-dream @km-ffluv @crimson25 @buttercupcookies-blog @salvinaa @javagirl328 @sweetz1919 @erebus-et-eigengrau @marvelcasey05

[conflictofthemind]

I can't answer a lot of asks I'm getting about my / your opinions on this leak because y'all are putting the leak right in the ask itself and I don't want to jumpscare anyone with possibly series defining spoilers!

However my opinion and analysis is as follows!

I agree that this makes whatever they're doing with the WillElMike love triangle messy as all hell. This is going to require some heavy lifting on the writing to not give off the impression that Will is, as so astutely put, "sloppy seconds". It changes the game a bit on my opinions of Mike's sexuality. I'm neither a gay or bi Mike truther because both interpretations feel equally valid to me. But now as to not invoke the previously mentioned trope, I think they'll have to explicitly make him gay and frame his relationship to El as comphet and a possessiveness resulting from trauma.

If I disregard the handling of the romantic aspects though, my possibly controversial opinion is that this ending makes total sense to the themes of the show. Some of the show's main themes are about childhood, nostalgia, and growing up. That's also what Spielberg was trying to do with ET.

ET is based on an imaginary friend he created as a child to shield himself from the trauma of his parent's divorce. EL magically appears to Mike to provide hope and shield him from the trauma of his best friend's disappearance (and his looming feelings for him).

Mike can't let go of her because then he'd actually have to face his trauma, his grief, his fears, his queerness. She's been his safety net for seasons and she's fought his battles for him. He finally starts to feel like something's wrong in Season 4. Mike becomes a very inactive character throughout this all and then having to rely later on Lucas and Will to help fix his growing relationship issues, so he can continue relying on her. All of it completely antithetical to him being a leader and you can see the degradation of character that has happened. Leaders don't rely on people, they are the reliable ones.

Not to mention Hopper's grief and experience with Sara never being something he could get over, and still isn't over to this day. He is controlling over El in Season 3 because of his helplessness over Sara. He's barely healed the wound - just put a bandage over it with the introduction of another daughter that he can use to ignore his grief. In accepting El's death (or departure), he accepts Sara's and finally moves on. Is it sad? Yes. Is it a lot more relatable to an audience of people who have lost loved ones and never gotten the chance to have a figurative replacement show up at their door and heal the wound for them? Yes. But through it all he has still found love and a family.

For a brief segue into Max, she's never really relied on El. You can see the contrast where Max directly opposes Hop/Mike and encourages El to make her own decisions. Max is more of a mentor figure to El. She's strong on her own right. It would be devastating to her regardless but has a lot less to do with her individual character arc.

I have thought this forever and have not been able to say it because of people who will accuse me of misogyny. As if I am not a lesbian feminist who runs a himejoshi (femslash) blog, almost exclusively stans female characters and has a vast majority female friend group but my opinions on El are just because she's a woman. But this is my honest to god interpretation of the work and if all fits what we are seeing plus the stated inspirations for the show?

[aliciavance4228]

The Iliad: Funny Moments

The year was 850-750 BCE. No phones or underwear in sight. Pants were for the uncivilized only. Unibrows were attractive. And then, one day, Homer decides to write the first Greek Mythology Fanfiction ever, called "Troy Story".

Here is a list of moments from the Iliad which I personally consider to be quite hilarious:

1. Early on in Book 2, before the enormous list of Greek fighters and ships:

Agamemnon tries to motivate/test the army by claiming that he's given up and they're going home. This backfires, as a stampede for the ships ensues.

In response, Athena comes down and gives Odysseus a pep talk. He promptly and unceremoniously takes Agamemnon's scepter out of his hands and runs around brow-beating and occasionally actually beating men who were turning from the fight. It all comes to a head when he takes the scepter and beats the crap out of the Argives' resident disfigured hunchback who was doing nothing but making jokes at the Argive leaders' expense. In fact, the narrative itself stops and mentions that the scene was so hilarious, the soldiers in-story were laughing raucously.

Within Agamemnon's speech, his roundabout method of explaining how badly the Greeks outnumber the Trojans: let's say they have a truce, and each side takes a census, and each group of ten Greek soldiers gets one (male) resident of Troy to pour their wine. "There would be many tens of men lacking a pourer of wine."

2. At one point early in the story Paris steps out among the Trojan soldiers, described as looking like a god, and dares any Greek soldier to come up and face him in battle. Menelaus steps forward to answer the call—and Paris promptly flees back behind his soldiers.

3.Menelaus beating Paris up with his bare hands, while the latter still has his sword. The dramatic way in which it's written makes it a tad more serious, until you remember that Menelaus is choking Paris with the strap of his own hat.

4. Throughout the book, the Greeks continuously throw spears at Hector, but Apollo just deflects them into his charioteer instead, before Hector just picks up another random guy off the battlefield. This happens numerous times throughout the book that it's almost a running gag.

5. The Greeks send an embassy to beg Achilles to come join the fighting again. At first he receives them in friendship, but when he's heard them out, he has Patroclus start passive-aggressively preparing a bed for the only member of the embassy he's invited to spend the night, to signal to the others it's time for them to leave. Thus proving that "it was so nice to see you, but wow, look at the time, we should be getting to bed!" is a tactic Older Than Dirt.

6. When Hera seduces Zeus to distract him, he describes how attractive she is by comparing her with some of the other women he's slept with. It takes about 20 lines in the original Greek.

7. During the battle between the men and gods, Artemis squares up with Hera after her brother decides against fighting Poseidon. You'd think Artemis, the epic huntress and receiver of human sacrifice she is, armed with a powerful bow and fitting the Action Girl trope to a tee would utterly wreck the seemingly frilly, stuck up, less capable Hera. Hera instead chastises Artemis for being a brat biting off way more than she can chew, gives her a verbal tongue lashing before snatching Artemis's bow away before she can get a shot off to give her a lashing with that. Artemis gets wailed on so badly she literally is sent running away crying home to her daddy Zeus.

8. One tangent mentions Hades making a grand entrance at Pylos, only to be immediately shot with one of Heracles' arrows, forcing him to abandon the fight and flee to Olympus to heal. Later, Poseidon makes an earthquake so strong Hades jumps out of his chair in fear that the Underworld will be exposed due to the quake.

9. Early on in the epic, King Priam calls to Helen to explain to him who is leading the Greek army - Agamemnon, Odysseus, Menelaus, etc - because Priam doesn't know who they are. The Greeks have been at war with his kingdom for nine years before this point. One would imagine who had such a role would be at the forefront of his thoughts or that he would at least bother to remember their names, especially since a Pre-Iliad episode had Odysseus and Menelaus before him arguing that Helen be returned.

10. After a long discussion of their ancestries, Glaucus and Diomedes shake hands and exchange armor as a pledge of Sacred Hospitality. The narrator notes that Glaucus got ripped off, because his armor was worth over ten times as much.

11. A wounded Sarpedon thinks he's about to die and begins giving Hector a Bury Me Not on the Lone Prairie speech. Hector, who he'd been arguing with several verses back, runs right past him without answering.

12. The standard heroic epithets being used at incongruous times. Godlike Paris hiding from Menelaus, godlike and enduring Odysseus running away while Diomedes yells at him to come back, Menelaus being called "beloved of Ares" while Ares is trying to get him killed, glorious Ajax the Lesser taking a spill face-first into ox dung...

13. Menelaus is shot and wounded. Agamemnon immediately begins mourning his brother and gets through a whole speech before Menelaus can get a word in edgewise to explain that he's still alive.

Credits: TV Tropes

[mapsontheweb]

The barbarian invasions of the 4th to the 5th century and the Romano-barbarian kingdoms

via cartesdhistoire/instagram

🇩🇪 “TaschenAtlas – Weltgeschichte”, Klett-Perthes Verlag, 2004 

🇩🇪 "Putzger, Historischer Atlas", 1994

4th Century: Barbarian populations begin settling as fœderati (allied peoples) along the borders of the Roman Empire. 378: The Visigoths invade the Balkan Peninsula, reaching as far as Greece. Near Adrianople, they inflict a significant defeat on the Roman army, marking the first serious Roman loss on their own territory. 400: The Burgundians settle in the region between the Rhine and the Main rivers. 402: The Visigoths invade Italy but are stopped by the Roman general Stilicho near Verona. 406: Various barbarian groups, including Vandals, Suebi, and Alans, cross the frozen Rhine, initiating widespread incursions into Roman territory. 407: The Caledonians (native tribes of Scotland) force the Romans to withdraw from Britain. 410: Alaric, king of the Visigoths, conquers and sacks Rome, shocking the empire. 412-418: The Visigoths settle in parts of Gaul and Spain, establishing a federated kingdom. 421: The Franks, led by Clovis, begin settling in northern Gaul. 429-439: The Vandals, under King Genseric, conquer North Africa and parts of Spain. They establish a kingdom that is initially recognized by the empire as federated but later becomes independent. 442: Rome formally cedes all its North African territories to the Vandals. 450: The Jutes, Angles, and Saxons begin settling in the British Isles, marking the start of the Anglo-Saxon migration. 451-453: The Huns, led by Attila, invade the western Roman Empire. 452: Pope Leo I, known as Leo the Great, meets Attila the Hun near the Mincio River and persuades him to abandon his campaign into Italy. 455: The Vandals, led by Genseric, sack Rome and pillage the coasts of Spain, Greece, and Italy. 475: The Eastern Roman Emperor Julius Nepos formally recognizes the Kingdom of Toulouse, established by the Visigoths. 476: The fall of the Western Roman Empire: Odoacer, a barbarian leader, deposes the last Western Roman Emperor, Romulus Augustulus, and declares himself King of Italy. 488-489: Theodoric, King of the Ostrogoths, invades Italy and defeats Odoacer in battles at the Isonzo, Verona, and the Adda River. 493: Theodoric captures Verona and has Odoacer assassinated. As master of Italy, Theodoric seeks coexistence between the Goths and the Roman population. 496-507: Clovis, king of the Franks, defeats the Alemanni at the Battle of Tolbiac (496) and the Visigoths at the Battle of Vouillé (507), expanding Frankish control over Gaul.

[eliteseven]

BG3 Drabble: Everybody Wants Tav

Pairing: (named)F!Tav & Shadowheart

Words: 5.5k

Synopsis: Shadowheart and Tav share intense romantic feelings for one another, but are too timid and conflicted to act on them. Being the nosy group they are, the Tadfools hatch a rather idiotic genius plan: to flirt shamelessly with Tav in front of Shadowheart, hoping to spark Shadowheart’s jealousy, and galvanize her into action.  

Inspired by this ask :)

The fledgling relationship growing between Shadowheart and Tav is one of the worst-held secrets in camp. 

It’s universally acknowledged, by this point, that both women are more or less enamored with each other. 

Serena rarely misses an opportunity to include Shadowheart in the smaller groups she takes with her when they venture away from camp. They’re constantly side-by-side, whether in battle, or merely occupying the same log around the fire, come supper. 

They’d moved in relative secrecy before, that much is true. Shadowheart had insisted upon it, and though Serena was wounded by the notion that Shadowheart might be ashamed of their relationship, she’d respectfully obliged. 

The Gauntlet of Shar changed everything. 

Just…not outwardly. 

The night that Shar severed her connection to Shadowheart, the former cleric was inconsolable. Her dreams, her path in life, erased in the span of a single evening. A single trip to the Shadowfell had rendered her lost, without a goddess, feeling more alone than she ever had before. 

And of course, she slept in Serena’s tent that night…though she wept until the stars faded into dawn, her tears soaking through Tav’s shirt and into her chest. 

Though the rest of camp had remained respectfully silent, they saw with their own eyes the way Serena was Shadowheart’s first line of defense, her refuge when all else had been taken from her. They’d noticed the way Serena would come by her tent, multiple times a day, for the next two tendays, bringing her meals, sitting outside her tent when Shadowheart would attempt to isolate herself. 

There can be no questioning the deep affection they carry for one another; Shadowheart is different, around Serena. Lighter, happier,…Whole. 

But it is uniquely Shadowheart to deny herself happiness, so terrified of loss now, that she cannot bring herself to admit the full extent of her feelings to Serena. 

What is achingly obvious to nearly everyone else seems to elude the two central to the topic. 

Serena and Shadowheart dance around each other, even now- though Shadowheart hasn’t the courage to rekindle their moonlit trysts, she pines after Serena. She seems to gain more of herself- not her Sharran self, but her true self, every day. 

And though it might only be a matter of time before one of them comes to their senses and takes action, the group fears that time is simply a luxury they do not possess. Not only that, but the frustration between the two is evident. 

Serena nearly eviscerated a group of Bhaal cultists by Bloomridge Park, so tense as she was, with loads of pent up physical desire that manifested in a deadly swing of her blade. 

And not a day later, Shadowheart single-handedly laid waste to a vicious group of Sahuagin by the docks.

…Before anyone else could even catch up to her long, agitated strides. 

What started as a simple chase, a romantic back-and-forth, has been moving at a glacial pace, and the effects are evident. 

And that is why the group has called an impromptu meeting around the campfire, on this particular evening. 

Serena has chosen Shadowheart (to the surprise of no one), and Jaheira, to case the Counting House for infiltration. 

It provides the perfect opportunity to discuss the camp’s resident issue between their leader and healer. 

The forum is open for discussion- though it is not quite as tactical as any one of them had hoped... 

“...Well it’s obvious, isn’t it?” Karlach snorts. “Shads needs to ride her and be done with it.” 

“Agreed.” Astarion nods. “I mean, really, what is there to lose?” 

Lae’zel glances up across the fire through a slitted gaze. “What would she be riding?” She inquires, fairly solemnly, though confusion is evident in her tone. 

“...I’m not certain it’s any of our business.” Wyll admits, not unkindly. “They need to realize their feelings for themselves. And Shadowheart just went through quite the change.” 

“I agree.” Gale tuts. “Though…I suppose we could help them along, in several ways.” he stirs at the cauldron over the fire, and while the Leek and Potato soup is far from done, the scent is welcoming nonetheless. 

“They are fools. Their refusal to lay together will cost us all our lives.” Lae’zel counters sharply. 

…Okay, so maybe they had noticed Serena ogling Shadowheart, managing to fall off a dock in the Grey Harbor as a result of her lapse in focus. 

Who wouldn’t? 

“It’s not just matters of a…carnal nature.” Wyll sighs. “Can’t you see they’re in love? We can’t hurry that along any more than a flower can be forced to bloom before its season.” Wyll sips at his wine, shaking his head. 

“Love.” Astarion rolls his eyes. “It’s not as if we’ve parasites in our minds, or anything. By all means, why don’t we get them a room at the Elfsong and lock them in it?” 

“...We’re trying to encourage romance, Astarion, not starvation.” Wyll points out. 

“...Trust me, they’ll be eating.” Astarion grins. 

Lae’zel thinks for a moment, likely trying to understand the expression, and then smirks. 

Gale’s ladle falls into the cauldron and he hisses at the hot backsplash of soup. “Might we change the subject?” He laughs nervously, clutching the back of his neck. 

“Again.” Wyll clears his throat. “As I’ve said before, this is a matter of the heart. Delicate, like a flower-” 

“-Right, yeah, that’s all good.” Karlach snorts. “But did you see Shads the other day at Elfsong? When that maid accidentally got a good look at Tav in the bath?” Karlach shakes her head, grinning. “Gods, she was running as hot as I am.” 

“Oh yes.” Gale sucks in a quick breath at the memory. “I believe she threatened to give the poor lady a…what was it? Ah, yes, a good thrashing. …A bit terrifying, that.” 

Lae’zel snorts. “Her anger is better spent on the ghaik invader in our minds.” 

“That’s what I’m talking about!” Karlach points to her in agreement. “Why don’t we just…give them a friendly push?” 

Astarion scoffs. “Short of laying with our hapless leader in front of Shadowheart, how do you hope to accomplish that? The girl’s had every opportunity. Have we considered that Shadowheart might not desire Tav in this way?” 

“...That’s…not a bad idea.” Karlach muses aloud. 

“...You can’t be serious.” Wyll scoffs. 

Astarion quirks a brow. “...Well, don’t look at me. I’m not volunteering.” 

“I will lay with her.” Lae’zel sniffs. “If she is truly strong, she will emerge from this with a renewed sense of dignity…Or she will break.” 

Karlach looks a bit dumbstruck, to be fair. “...Ah, that’s…not really what I meant, ‘Lae. But…good to know…” 

A puff of smoke nearly puts out the fire, and before them manifests a figure of sinewy muscle wrapped suffocatingly around bone. 

“Withers!” Gale greets cheerily. “May we offer you a piping hot bowl of soup?” 

Withers turns his head slowly, surveying them all, before resting a hollow gaze upon Gale. 

“Thou shalt not.” 

“...Right, well, it isn’t ready yet, but you have some time to-” Gale’s fumbling is bypassed by a flourish of Withers’ hands. 

“Thou dost seek to bridge the chasm ’twixt thy healer and thy leader, dost thou not?” Withers asks gravely. 

“...We…Thy…do…” Karlach tries, shrugging helplessly as she nods. 

“Such matters do steer thee astray from the battles that yet lie before thee.” Withers tells them, sagely, as if they aren’t all simply gossiping together like a group of hens. 

“Really?” Astarion snorts. “We storm Cazador’s palace and you said and did absolutely nothing, but Shadowheart can’t seem to mount Tav properly and this warrants divine…or whatever you are…intervention?” 

“Yes.” Withers blinks coldly at Astarion, and the discussion between them ends there. “I shall craft a feast, that it might draw them unto one another.” 

He waves his hand, and the stew Gale has labored over for hours vanishes. 

“Hey!” Gale exclaims, turning to Withers with a look of utter shock. “I’ll have you know that was three hours in the mak- oh.” 

A veritable feast has been conjured behind them, a massive spread of the finest food and drink along a sprawling wooden table, previously where Tav had pored over warmaps, strategizing. 

Karlach gapes. “I didn’t…did you know he could do that?” 

Wyll grins. “This is truly a gift, Withers, thank you.” 

Lae’zel’s eyes narrow at Withers. “And yet, we’ve spent many evenings hunting when we could have been honing our skills.” 

“...A rare occasion, indeed, this evening.” Withers offers, turning to smoke once more as he disappears from view. 

Astarion gawks at the table behind them, with enough food upon it to feed the entirety of the lower city. “And not a single vial of blood.” He mutters, downing the rest of the wine in his chalice. 

—------------------------------------------------------------------------

The walk back to camp is tiresome, though every day since the loss of her faith has been exhausting, for Shadowheart. 

Conflict lies deep in her soul- regarding herself, her heart, and everything she ever knew- that she can remember, anyway. 

The moonlit walk with Jaheira and Serena is most calming, however, and Shadowheart feels an inkling of normalcy- whatever that’s supposed to feel like- setting in. 

Serena does not push. 

The night they returned from the Shadowfell, Shadowheart had shut down completely. She allowed herself to be carried into Serena’s tent, wrapped up in her arms, where she’d cried herself to sleep. 

Leaving her tent the next morning was one of the most difficult things Shadowheart has ever had to do in her life. 

Every fiber of her being had longed- still longs- to tell Serena the truth: that Shadowheart is desperately in love with her. Worse yet- that Serena is all she has. 

She had intended to tell her almost-lover right there and then, but the words died in her throat and crumbled back into ash in her chest. 

Shadowheart knows it’s foolish- how she’s withdrawn almost entirely, as of late- at least in a romantic sense. Everyone around her assumes it’s the loss of Shar- that it’s rendered her catatonic, emotionally. 

It’s not the loss of Shar that makes her hesitate, but the prospect of not being good enough for Serena. 

Doubt is something Shadowheart has warred with her entire life. Doubt in herself, at times- her faith, doubt in her goddess, her own history, always simmering beneath a placid looking surface. 

In truth, Shadowheart questions her value, now. Her very right to existence. Who is she, without her lady to guide her? What could she possibly be worth to Serena, now? 

She sees it in her eyes: the same adoration she feels for Serena, the feeling she tries so desperately to mask. It’s there, plain as day. 

Shadowheart doesn’t know what she did to fool Serena into ever thinking she was worthy of her affections, but now? Nameless, faithless, and without a true purpose? 

Shadowheart fears the one hand extended to her in kindness will recoil the minute she reaches for it. 

And so she leaves Serena hanging in a most cruel manner; though they have not touched- beyond the brushing of hands, or a bump in passing, Shadowheart keeps her suspended in mystery. She does not seek Serena out for nightly trysts, or stolen kisses beneath the silvery light of the moon. She does not attempt to poke her head into Serena’s tent every once in a while, under the guise of complaining about whatever Lae’zel said, or discussing “strategy” for their next battle. 

She has all but ceased their romantic contact, without ever once sharing an intimate word with Serena on the subject. 

And it’s not as if Serena doesn’t have her fair share of suitors…

Shadowheart’s blood boils as she recalls the way the young maid in Elfsong had gotten to drink in the sight of Serena, one bare leg perched above the bathtub as she cleaned herself, before hastily apologizing and backing out of the occupied room. 

It should have been Shadowheart, and she should’ve been joining Serena in that bath. 

Serena had been a modest and fair sport about the entire ordeal, but Shadowheart wonders if, perhaps, she liked it? 

They’ve been traveling for some time now, and Shadowheart feels her own most base desires, seeping into her thoughts increasingly. It has been some time since she’s been held, since she properly joined with another. The ache between her thighs is consistent, and she knows her thirst could only be quenched by one other soul. 

But Shadowheart has lost her confidence, and though Serena did make something akin to a mewling noise when she first saw Shadowheart’s change in hairstyle and color, Shadowheart wonders if perhaps she’s lost her appeal. 

Instead, she often retreats to her tent early, or to the nearby stream. She confesses her love of Serena to Scratch and the Owlbear instead, because she knows her secrets are nowhere safer in camp than with them. 

She glances back at Serena now, talking with Jaheira as they pause right at the border of their camp, marked by a single barrel Karlach had haphazardly thrown to the side. 

Serena glances back at her, and again, they share a longing glance, before Shadowheart severs the eye contact and turns away to her tent. 

Her heart can’t take much more of this. 

“Shadowheart!” Wyll waves her over to the fire in the distance, and Shadowheart’s stomach grumbles in response to seeing a veritable mountain of food, laid on a table, banquet-style. Her eyes widen in surprise.

Perhaps Raphael made a visit to camp in attempts to doom them all, again. 

Shadowheart finds she wouldn’t particularly mind, this time around. 

—------------------------------------------------------------------------

A party.

They’re having a damned party. 

Gale fiddles with a lute.

Shadowheart didn’t even know Gale could play the lute. Gods know he wouldn’t be able to shut up about he’d played, likely for Mystra, at a time, if he could. 

That in itself is suspicious. 

Let alone the massive banquet that has seemingly appeared from thin air. 

“Gale’s magic!” Wyll had explained, rather hastily. Withers let out something akin to a cough on the other side of camp, immediately after. 

Why Gale would wait until this point in their journey to switch from laboring over a cauldron for hours to simply manifesting a feast upon a table, Shadowheart cannot guess. 

But it goes deeper than that. 

Wine flows, and there isn’t an empty chalice in the group- despite the fact that they have nothing to celebrate, as of late. 

With Orin on the prowl, and Gortash moving methodically, they have their work cut out for them, and it’s hardly the time to dance around the fire, as Karlach seems to be doing. 

“C’mon, Shads!” Karlach prods, as Shadowheart sits at the table, likely brought out of her hidey-hole for a meal she intended to eat in isolation. “Dance with me!” 

Shadowheart has the grace to wear a sad smile as she extends her polite rejection to Karlach. It almost breaks her heart to do so. 

Karlach is happy, fun, a bright flame that she would only smother with her stormy mood, as of late. 

“You sure?” Karlach asks, a touch softer, but Shadowheart chews slowly on a piece of bread, her eyes locked instead on Serena. 

Across the fire, Serena has removed her armor and changed into her camp clothing. 

Her new camp clothing, gifted to her by none other than Figaro “facemaker” Pennygood. 

Her new, backless camp clothing. 

Karlach stifles a snort. “...Well, we’ll be here if you change your mind.” She offers, but Shadowheart is long gone. 

Shadowheart watches as Wyll- that damned, honorable, charismatic, beautiful man- sidles a touch closer to Serena, on the log they occupy. 

Shadowheart quirks a brow. 

Serena does, too- she offers her plate to Wyll in an innocent gesture, likely curious as to why he’d choose to sit with her alone. 

Wyll chuckles and declines. 

Shadowheart struggles to hear them over the crackling of the fire and Gale’s song on the lute, but she strains to listen, anyway. 

It becomes evident when Wyll stands, bowing in a formal sort of way, before clearing his throat, “Would the lady give me the honor of a dance?” He asks. 

Serena glances behind her, almost comically. “...Me?” She blinks, wearing a look of utter surprise. 

Shadowheart inwardly rolls her eyes. 

Serena cares little for reminders of her past life in nobility. In fact, her hatred of the patriar traditions runs so deeply, that often times, she will-

Serena is smiling. 

Shadowheart cannot tell if she wears a blush, or if the fire has simply heated her cheeks. 

…Perhaps the fire has fried her brain, too, along with the tadpole in it- because she accepts Wyll’s hand with a rather confused, but amused smile nonetheless. 

“I think…You and I might have been here, before.” Wyll teases- though Shadowheart isn’t certain what he means by that. 

Serena and Wyll ran in the same circles, in their youth- both from powerful patriar families, attending the same gatherings, abiding the same traditions. It’s well and truly possible that he and Serena have danced, courted each other, even- in their youth. 

Shadowheart doesn’t realize the way her face is scrunched up in utter disdain at the mere thought, until Lae’zel smirks at her from across the table. 

Shadowheart peels her eyes away from Wyll as he twirls Serena in time to Gale’s music, and she glares at Lae’zel. 

Though Lae’zel has stopped antagonizing her, and Shadowheart considers the Githyanki a friend, more than anything- that doesn’t mean there aren’t times in which they still enjoy the thrill of a back-and-forth. 

But tonight, Shadowheart hasn’t the energy. 

“What?” Shadowheart snaps, trying not to stare at Serena through the dancing flames. She laughs, and Wyll joins in. He dips her, with a careful hand along the small of her back-her bare back- and Shadowheart’s fingers curl under the table. 

“Curious. I have not seen you so angry while eating.” Lae’zel remarks. “I was told you would be satisfied once you and Tav ate.” 

Shadowheart blinks. 

This night just gets stranger and stranger. 

“I’m not very hungry…” She lies. “And...am I supposed to know what you’re referring to?” Shadowheart scoffs, feeling old Sharran sentiments surfacing for a moment, and forcing them down. There’s no need to act so biting- not when everyone is in such high spirits. 

Scratch nuzzles Shadowheart’s ankle under the table, and she smiles softly, scratching behind his ears. 

“Hello, you.” Shadowheart whispers, and Scratch tilts his head up on her lap. He pants, and he looks like he’s grinning at her, making her heart flutter with an innocent happiness. 

A twig is deposited in her lap, only half covered with slobber and drool. 

Shadowheart grimaces, but laughs softly, accepting her fate. “You want to play, boy?” She coos, rising from her seat. 

She glances at Serena one last time, laughing as Wyll bows to her, and she feigns a curtsy, the image of soft elegance and grace, despite the humor with which she’s approached the request. 

Shadowheart turns away, curious as to when Serena and Wyll have become so very close. 

—------------------------------------------------------------------------

The uproarious laughter from the campfire makes it hard to concentrate on her game of fetch with Scratch, despite how much Shadowheart tries to tune them out. 

It’s already hard enough forcing herself to be out of her tent, when she wants nothing more than to crawl into it and die, but a party? 

To be fair, Serena seems equally as perplexed by their companions’ sudden change in plans, but she seems to be adjusting decently, all things considered. 

She joins Karlach in a drinking game, and when she laughs out loud, Shadowheart cannot help but gaze over, longingly. 

And of course, she meets her favorite amber gaze, because there isn’t ever a time in which they don’t look after each other longingly, after a few moments. 

Shadowheart’s eyes nearly pop out of her head when Karlach reaches over and brushes a drop of ale off Serena’s lip with her thumb, rather intimately. 

Serena freezes in place, her own eyes wide and bearing shock as she blinks a few times, as if she’d just imagined the blatantly flirtatious move. 

She touches her own lips for a moment in surprise, and then laughs the entire ordeal off somewhat awkwardly. 

Karlach smiles all the while, “Cute, soldier.” She comments at Serena’s dumbstruck expression, before reaching to open another bottle. 

Shadowheart feels her lip curl in disdain. 

Cute?

…And, yes, Serena is cute- but since when has Karlach thought so? 

Shadowheart tries to busy herself with something as menial as fetch- it normally brings her endless joy, watching Scratch bound over with the ball, eyes twinkling in delight. 

But Serena is usually a few feet away, often prattling on about a book she’s enjoyed, or writing in her journal, and that’s what’s missing, as much as Shadowheart doesn’t wish to acknowledge the fact. 

Serena has become a pillar in her life; a fixture that cannot be replaced. 

Only, Shadowheart hasn’t told her as much. 

Serena sits back down on the log by the fire, and this time, it’s Gale who leans against the foot of the log she sits atop, glancing up at her by tilting his head backwards. 

Shadowheart pauses mid-throw, eliciting a very confused whine from Scratch, who nearly leaps in the air in anticipation. 

“Fancy seeing you here…” Gale announces in his best debonair tone. 

“...In camp?” Serena clarifies, wearing a look of utter confusion. “...Where…I live?”

Gale hesitates for a moment. “Ah…well, no, but…here. By the fire….with me.” He adds. 

Shadowheart doesn’t know if she should laugh or cry. In all honesty, she’s starting to question if the wine is poisoned, and she’s merely hallucinating all of this. 

“...It is supper time.” Serena offers in a most confused tone, almost as if she’s asking a question. 

“...Fair point.” Gale concedes awkwardly. “Although, I must ask, would you be opposed to spending a little time observing the heavens with me?” Gale gestures to the night sky, alight with stars as bright as Selûne’s tears. 

Shadowheart snaps the twig she’s holding in half. 

This has to be in jest. 

Scratch barks at her in retaliation, and Shadowheart startles, as nearly the entire camp glances back at them both. 

“...Sorry, boy.” Shadowheart sighs, shoulders slumping as she drops the ends of the twig. “I don’t think I’m much for games right now.” She admits. 

Scratch bounds away after a moment, towards the campfire, likely choosing alternative companionship, after that pathetic display. 

She sets off towards her tent, her mind a messy web of entangled thoughts and sentiments, weighing her entire being down. 

She nearly trips over Scratch when he deposits a familiar red ball at her shoes. 

Shadowheart cannot help it; she laughs softly. 

She glances backwards at the campfire, curious as to where he’s found his favorite toy, and her questions are answered when Serena smiles at her from across camp, gesturing to her pocket. 

Of course she’d carry Scratch’s favorite toy around; there’s a reason she’s consistently his favorite. 

Shadowheart feels butterflies in her stomach all over again. 

Serena is always there for her, even in the midst of being (very poorly) courted by Gale, it seems. 

Shadowheart decides to humor Scratch, and the love of her life, and stay out a little longer. 

—------------------------------------------------------------------------

The night almost feels normal, for a moment. 

Shadowheart has found her way back to the fire, and she occupies the same log as Serena, this time. 

The way it should be. 

Their pinkies barely brush, resting on the log in the space between them, and that alone sets Shadowheart’s soul ablaze. 

The post-supper conversations are amusing, and they all take turns trading stories, laughing at each other’s most outlandish tales. 

It’s only when they begin to put out the main fire, and slowly retreat to their respective tents, that Shadowheart’s companions begin to act oddly, once more. 

Shadowheart swears, only Jaheira has exhibited normal behavior- and that is because she saw the feast, took a plate and a glass of wine to her tent, and retired early for the evening. 

Shadowheart doesn’t know how, but she’s beginning to understand that Jaheira can foresee their youthful tomfoolery before it happens, and promptly avoids it, every time. 

Although this behavior…it goes beyond simple tomfoolery. 

As Serena rises from the log, and stretches- she exposes a patch of midriff that has Shadowheart’s mouth dry. 

But it’s her craning, exposed neck, as she stretches, that seems to draw Astarion’s attention, from across the fire. 

“My..what a pretty thing.” Astarion coos, taking a step closer. 

Serena narrows her eyes defensively, pausing mid-stretch. She glances beside her, at Shadowheart, and then back at Astarion, as if she’s unsure who he’s referring to. 

“Just think…all this to drink, and yet, I haven’t had my fill.” Astarion purrs, as he approaches Serena, red eyes locked on her neck, flitting down to the plunging neckline of her suit. 

“...Then you’d better go hunting.” Shadowheart grits, stepping forward in front of Serena in a protective manner. 

It feels eerily like their dynamic on the first few nights at camp, only this time, Shadowheart gives voice to her concerns. She gives voice to the jealousy, brewing in her heart. 

“And what if I already am?” Astarion grins. 

“Ah…” Serena clears her throat, wearing a look of bewilderment. “...What is…I’m not certain that…is it me, or has everyone lost their minds this evening?” Serena blurts out, flustered and at the ends of her diplomatic rope. 

“Yes.” Shadowheart folds her arms, glaring at them all. “They have.” 

Their campmates exchange odd looks, but no one responds immediately. 

It is Lae’zel, who clears her throat, standing from her seat on the log beside Wyll. 

Shadowheart’s shoulders relax, as do Serena’s. 

With Lae’zel, there is no “beating around the bush”- she will deliver answers, in a clipped, no-nonsense tone, once and for all. …And then they can all just retire, and put this oddity of an evening behind them. 

Lae’zel stands face to face with Serena, and sighs. 

And then she kisses her. 

A full, open-mouthed, cheek cupping kiss- bold and passionate, with a warrior’s spirit, like everything Lae’zel does. 

Shadowheart’s gasp echoes louder than an explosion, or, so it seems. 

She is frozen, rooted to the spot, as Lae’zel kisses Serena for a moment, and pulls away with a little smack of her lips. 

Serena, poor, stupefied Serena, simply stands there in shock. For the entirety of the kiss. 

Her eyes are wide, her expression is stunned, and the first thing she does is blink. 

Slowly, owlishly, she turns her head to Shadowheart, asking the silent question they both seem to share, in that moment: What the fuck just occurred? 

Serena glances back at Lae’zel with an indecipherable look; she’s well and truly broken. Her eyebrows are still in her hairline from shock, and Serena swallows, audibly. 

“...I too desire you carnally.” Lae’zel sounds as if she’s reading a sign, without any intonation, any sign of emotion in her words, other than, perhaps, annoyance. “I would like…to eat you. Or…ride you. …As I would a dragon.”

Serena gapes. 

Shadowheart blinks several times, still trying to affirm if this is reality, or a hallucination. 

The silence that follows can only be described as awkward. 

“Hah!” Astarion guffaws, the sound of his delight ringing through camp. 

“Gods.” Karlach mutters, burying her head in her hands. 

“I…” Serena croaks out a single word, but pauses, brow furrowed as she tries to process the whirlwind of events she’s just endured. “...Well, that was…” She trails off, at an utter loss for words. 

Shadowheart doesn’t know what to think.

She has watched every camp member, save for Jaheira (Shadowheart’s new favorite), flirt with Serena. 

She just watched Lae’zel devour Serena with a kiss. 

…Any hesitation within her is well and truly gone. 

She takes Serena’s hand, and stalks off, towards Serena’s tent. 

Serena follows very eagerly, all too happy to follow Shadowheart, away from all her potential suitors. 

“Where are you two going together?!” Karlach calls after them curiously. 

“To sleep!” Shadowheart snaps, and she smiles, when she hears the camp erupt into cheers by the fire. 

“It’s about time!” Karlach shouts, cupping her mouth with her hands so the words carry. 

They do, and Shadowheart finds herself in agreement. 

It certainly is. 

—------------------------------------------------------------------------

Words feel unnecessary as Shadowheart ties the tent flaps of Serena’s tent closed, and practically tackles her to the bedroll. 

Serena gasps as Shadowheart kisses her passionately, so intent on making her forget the image of Lae’zel doing the same, despite it being a method of provocation, and nothing more. 

“I…” Serena gasps against her lips. “Heart…” She pleads, and though she grabs Shadowheart’s hips, keeping her anchored to her, there is a moment’s hesitation in her voice. 

Shadowheart pulls away, lips tingling. 

“I didn’t…that wasn’t…” Serena fumbles for words. 

“I know.” Shadowheart whispers amusedly, heart racing in her chest. 

Serena looks beautiful, even in the dim candlelight of her tent. 

“I…I’ve been trying to get your attention for…” Serena trails off. Tendays, at the very least. 

“I know.” Shadowheart affirms softly, stroking her cheek. “You have it.” She promises, tenderly, straddling Serena’s lap. “I should’ve said something sooner, I shouldn’t have been afraid…” She trails off, shaking her head. “But…” She worries her lip. “I want you, Tav, so badly that-” 

And they’re kissing again. 

It’s a mess of emotions, sweet kisses alternating between more passionate, heated ones, but it’s beautiful, all the same. 

“I couldn’t stand…” Shadowheart hisses as Serena’s lips kiss a trail against her jaw, ever reverent in how she regards her, how she handles her. “...Seeing you…with anyone else…” 

Serena nods, frantic, as Shadowheart rolls her hips against her, whining softly, making her brain implode, momentarily. 

“We…” Shadowheart gasps as Serena kisses her neck. “Need to…talk…” 

Serena pauses for a moment. 

“After? After.” Shadowheart nods frantically, pressing Serena down into the bedroll. 

—------------------------------------------------------------------------

The following morning is bright and uplifting. Golden rays of sun wash over the camp, birdsong fills the air, and Shadowheart and Serena emerge from Serena’s tent, hand in hand, wearing lovesick expressions. 

Withers greets them both, first, on their way to the campfire for a spot of breakfast. 

“Ah, thous hast acquired a new bosom companion. I trust all unfolded as fate intended?” Withers nods to himself, eyeing their joined hands. 

Shadowheart exchanges a dubious glance with Serena. 

“...Yes.” Serena clears her throat, offering a smile to Withers despite his curious terminology. “We are…bosom companions.” She mutters the last part, but smiles genuinely at Shadowheart when she begins to snicker at the term. 

“Then all is as it should be.” Withers nods, and disappears before them, leaving Serena standing there, glancing at Shadowheart curiously. 

“Bosom companions…” Shadowheart remarks playfully, bringing Serena’s knuckles to her lips. “I suppose it sounds…tamer than lovers.” 

“We’re more than that.” Serena promises, and then glances around conspiratorially. “...Even he knew about us?” Serena whispers. 

Shadowheart smirks. “I’m starting to realize where the feast, and Gale’s lute-playing abilities came from, last night…” 

Serena’s eyes widen in realization. “...Well, I’m flattered by the concern, I suppose. Breakfast?” She turns to Shadowheart curiously. 

Shadowheart smirks at her. “But we already ate…” she drawls innocently, batting her long eyelashes and causing Serena to pause. 

She draws Serena into a slow, languid kiss, standing on her tip-toes as she bunches Serena’s collar in her hands, pulling her flush against her. 

Resting her forehead against Shadowheart’s, Serena wears a stupid smile as they part. 

Shadowheart mirrors it, allowing herself to bask in genuine happiness for the first time in a very long time.

—------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Look who it is.” Astarion drawls as Serena and Shadowheart approach the campfire, where Gale hunches over a cauldron again, rubbing his lower back. “I nearly starved last night, thanks to you.” He sniffs airily. 

“Because of us?” Serena clarifies, and frowns. “Astarion, if you truly need my blood-” She begins, and Shadowheart visibly bristles at the mere notion. 

“-not that.” Astarion rolls his eyes. “You see, not a single creature in these woods stuck around after that racket you made.” 

Shadowheart pauses midway through lifting a water skin to her lips. 

Serena pauses as Gale loads stew into her dish. 

A cursory glance around the fire tells them that Astarion is not fibbing, this time. 

Wyll is asleep atop his log, his hand dipped in a cold bowl of stew. 

Karlach, with dark circles under her eyes, fights sleep as she lifts a spoon to her mouth, but fails, and drops the bowl all over herself, finally succumbing to sleep. 

Lae’zel leans on her sword, planted into the ground before her seat, but her eyes close and her head droops periodically. 

Gale’s mage-hand keeps him supported every time he leans over, sleep-deprived as he is. 

Only Jaheira looks well-rested, whistling as she joins them at the fire. “Good morning to all.” She greets, and then takes stock of her companions, frowning. “...What happened here?”

Astarion shrugs. “A lot of eating and riding, by the sounds of it.” 

Jaheira sighs, taking her bowl and turning back on her heel, right for her tent. 

[bibliophilesince2003]

Oplita Oneshot

This is based off of Transformers One. I've been itching to write something wholesome, and I absolutely adore Optimus and Elita as a couple. Normally, I put my writing on Wattpad. Then again, those are usually full-length stories. It just made sense to do this particular oneshot here. Perhaps I'll do more oneshots of my favorite fandoms in the future.

So, yeah, this is for my fellow die-hard Oplita fans.

Also... this takes place after the ending of Transformers One, maybe a few months or so after the ending. Sorry, I'm not sure what a month is in cybertronian terms; Google was unhelpful. If you have not seen Transformers One in its entirety, this one shot may not be as impactful as it could be.

-

Optimus ducked as he walked past the door frame, mumbling to himself. His eyes were glued to the data disks in his hands; he had grabbed far too many. A few dropped to the ground. He bent to pick them up, but only lost more in the process. Optimus shook his head and resorted to sitting on the ground, spreading out the data. Now he could read them better, though some of the works and markings were faded and illegible. He grunted, his legs getting in the way. Being taller and bulkier had its advantages in battle, but he couldn't exactly crawl through vents like he used to. Bee had joked that perhaps the Matrix of Leadership had a "switch" for shrinking, but Elita said that size didn't matter. Then, she promptly added, stupidity was sure to remain.

He was glad he didn't intimidate her, even after becoming a prime. Her suggestion to "adapt" to sudden change was both firm and helpful, though harsh. Now, it settled deep in his spark, and he began to overthink. What if he didn't adapt? Would she think less of him?

A memory flashed through his mind, eliminating his worries about Eilta. He may have been dying, but he remembered catching a glimpse of Elita leaning towards the edge of the well when he fell. It was both shocking and endearing, but he was glad Bee yanked her back. It warmed his heart before pain overtook it, pain so great that it rendered him unconscious. He hadn't mentioned it to her, and he didn't think he ever would. It would be a secret to hold on to, at least for the time being.

Optimus was so engrossed in his work he didn't hear the automatic doors open. When footfalls finally reached his ears, Optimus scrambled and gathered up the data disks to the best of his ability. Elita and a few of her soldiers in training turned the corner and walked down the hall. Elita put her hands on her hips.

"And here is our leader, on the ground and sorting through old data disks like a desperate scavenger. Don't worry; he's tougher than he looks."

"That's reassuring," said one of the trainees; a pink and white female cybertronian.

Optimus cleared his throat, gave a lop-sided grin, and backed up. He dumped the data disks on a table and apologized, though it was mostly for Elita's sake. When he returned to the group, Elita gave him an amused look, but waved a hand in front of the trainees.

"This is Arcee, Smoke, and Cliffjumper. It's part of their training to visit the archives. A tactical warrior is just as powerful as a physically strong one."

"Wheeljack was part of your training program, wasn't he?" Optimus asked.

Elita rolled her eyes, and Cliffjumper answered for her, holding back a laugh. "He got bored."

"He joked about starting his own group; a group that didn't mind going the extreme," Smoke said.

He paused, then added to his statement. "Maybe it wasn't a joke."

"It definitely wasn't a joke," Arcee said.

"I'll have a talk with him later," Elita said, and Optimus nodded.

He stared at the wall just above their heads, lost in thought. Elita straightened.

"You ok?" she asked.

"What?" Optimus snapped out of it. "Oh, I'm fine."

Elita turned to address her trainees. "Meal break. Get your energon and look over some of the data this place has to offer that you think will benefit you. I want you at the station in a couple of hours; no sooner, no later. Got it?"

They nodded and obeyed; heading down the hall and turning the corner. Silence fell as their chattering grew distant.

"I said I was fine," Optimus said, attempting a laugh.

It sounded hollow.

"What's wrong, Pax?"

Optimus' shoulders dropped in surrender. When she called him that, he always felt inclined to answer, as if he were a miner under her command again. "Pax" or "Orion" would only come from her, though, and she never used it in front of others. He was to be Optimus Prime to everyone else; a title that carried authority and a great deal of weight. All cybertronian citizens were aware that their life could never be the same; many were expected to train. Really, he wasn't the only one experiencing change.

"I don't know if I can do this," Optimus blurted, clenching his fists.

"You're going to have to be more specific," Elita said.

"I'm a prime, but I've never led. I'm expected to fight in a war that hasn't begun but haunts the future. I think we both know Megatron will be back; he will want to take my place. Maybe he should."

Elita sighed and took Optimus' hand. "Come on."

Dazed, Optimus nodded. They walked down the hall and through various rooms. Neither of them let go, fingers tightly intertwined.

"Find a place where we can talk, Pax. I haven't broken in here like you have."

"Commander's orders," Optimus said, picking up the pace.

They entered a dimly lit, musky room. Elita coughed, letting go of Optimus' hand to wave her hand in front of her face. "Couldn't you have picked a better place?"

"The worst places are often the best places," Optimus said.

"Is this vagueness going to be regular thing, now? I hate it."

Optimus braced his back against a shelving unit, though it didn't contain very many data disks. With a grunt he gave a few hard shoves, and the shelving unit moved to reveal a broken door that led to a precarious platform overlooking Iacon.

"Is this how you would get in?" Elita asked, coming closer to observe.

"No; there were more dangerous entry points with small ventilation systems. I got stuck for a full twenty minutes, once."

"And to think... if you had just stayed there, we could have avoided all this chaos."

"What... and have Cybertron miss this charm?" Optimus motioned to himself.

Elita rolled her eyes, but Optimus caught a small smile. He backed up, letting her go first, and Elita stepped onto the platform and approached the edge. She leaned forward, and Optimus sucked in an inward breath, squeezing past the door frame. She sat at the edge, legs dangling. As soon as Optimus sat beside her, she spoke.

"You won't know how to lead."

Great. Another one of her "encouraging" pep talks. Elita turned her head and waited until Optimus locked eyes with her.

"What I mean is... leading can never be mastered," Elita said. "So, you need to act like you have it all figured out. Voice your fears with the ones you trust, but don't put them on public display. You're right; Megatron is out there somewhere, plotting your demise."

"I don't like the thought of preparing citizens for war," Optimus said.

"It has to be done. The few already capable fighters we have don't stand a chance."

"I know."

"We have to win," Elita said.

Silence fell. They could both agree on that. Elita put a hand on his shoulder.

"You are nothing like Megatron."

"I... try to envision him as he was. He was my greatest friend, Elita. And yet, anyone is capable of betrayal."

"You may doubt yourself, but I would never betray you. Even when I seemed your enemy, yelled at you, and -"

"Punched me in the face?" Optimus offered.

"Yes, even then, I never hated you. You were just... too ambitious and eager for my taste."

"Interesting," Optimus said, looking upwards in thought.

Elita laughed and knocked him in the shoulder, and Optimus gasped dramatically and fell, rolling closer to the edge of the platform.

"I thought you would stop punching me," Optimus groaned, finally sitting up when Elita's eyes widened, no doubt worried he might fall, or perhaps having PTSD of when he had, in fact, fallen.

"Oh, come on! That wasn't a punch," Elita said.

Optimus laughed and stood up, offering a hand. Elita took it, and he helped her up.

"What were you doing rifling through the data disks, anyway?"

"I'm trying to find what remains of Alpha Trion's wisdom. The Matrix of Leadership offers many surprises, but I'm without a mentor. I wish he were here."

"You have everything and everyone you need," Elita said.

Optimus dipped his head, and Elita placed her hands on either side of his face, lifting it back up. "I expect you to be on the training grounds this afternoon. Maybe you can convince Wheeljack to join the group."

"Would they listen to me?"

"You have an axe for a hand. How could they not?"

Optimus laughed, and Elita lowered her hands, nodding in satisfaction.

"Thanks, Elita."

"Any time, Pax."