#and this exit will likely spark a fire under them

[orlandospride]

as a fan of the US women since 2007 (and womens soccer as a whole since 2005), i am also (kind of) glad that were out. my feelings are pretty mixed on the matter but a lot of the fans dont fucking get it. this was always going to be the hardest world cup for us. the combination of the players that weve been relying on for the past decade either retiring or being out with injuries, and other countries finally putting money into their programs always meant that we weren't going to do as well as people would like to think. ik that the world cup is always fucking wild but germany got knocked out as well. that's huge and is what a lot of newer US fans are missing. no one's threepeated before, simply because it's fucking hard to be that dominant for that long. on a separate note, there's the fact that we go into every single group stage game of every single tournamentlooking like we've never met each other before, everyone's like "oh god we're not going to win", and then we usually pull out a win. but this time we didn't, and that's okay! it fucking sucks but it's okay! it sucks that men and conservatives are going to use this as a "see, they didnt deserve the money", but they don't matter. im excited for whatever chaos the rest of the tournament brings.

most rational uswnt fan i’ve ever heard. you’re bang in the money with pretty much all of this. i do agree people underestimated how much of an impact the player changes had. obviously some incompetence of vlatko’s behalf too and it’ll be interesting to see what happens to him afterwards

but yeah women’s football is getting better across the world and (hopefully) the more time passes, the more world cups like this we’ll have, because it means gaps are getting smaller and that is a positive….even if you are american

it does really suck that incels and republicans will use this as a “it’s what they deserve!” and look at the event in isolation, particularly when they literally don’t care about women, let alone women’s football

[driverlando]

✧.* SIXTY-NINE

synopsis - y/n is a singer and Lando is the muse for her latest single

before you continue: this is suggestive so minors dni!! if you enjoyed then pls reblog and follow! it means a lot <3

EXCLUSIVE: Pop Sensation Y/N Spotted Leaving Monaco Hideaway Early Morning — Allegedly After Spending Night with F1’s Lando Norris, Says Fan

Monaco – May 10, 2024:

In a shocking twist of events that has sent the rumor mill into overdrive, international pop superstar Y/N was seen slipping out of a discreet building in Monaco early this morning. The singer, known for her chart-topping hits and glamorous lifestyle, was caught by an eager fan who managed to snap a few candid photos, sparking a frenzy of speculation.

Y/N, dressed in an oversized denim jacket over her black dress and carrying an overnight bag, seemed keen on keeping a low profile as she exited the building at around 6 AM. However, her attempt at stealth was thwarted by a die-hard fan who happened to be in the right place at the right time. The fan, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared the encounter with our reporters, providing exclusive photos that reveal the singer’s unmistakable figure.

The buzz doesn’t stop there. Sources close to the scene suggest that Y/N wasn’t alone in the luxurious abode. The same insider hinted at the presence of Formula 1 star Lando Norris, fueling rumors of a budding romance between the two high-profile figures. Lando, who recently competed in and won the Miami Grand Prix, was reportedly seen entering the same building the previous evening.

Speculation has been rife since the two were spotted chatting intimately at an after-party for the Grand Prix. Their undeniable chemistry and shared laughter did not go unnoticed, prompting whispers among attendees. This morning’s sighting has only added fuel to the fire.

Our source disclosed, “Y/N looked like she was trying to keep things under wraps. She was very cautious, but it’s hard to go unnoticed when you’re that famous. The fan got lucky with those photos, and it’s clear that Y/N wasn’t expecting any attention at that hour.”

While Y/N’s management team has yet to comment on the situation, fans have taken to social media to express their excitement and curiosity. “Y/N and Lando? Didn’t see that coming!” tweeted one fan, while another wrote, “They would be the ultimate power couple!”

Lando Norris, known for his charm and talent on the racetrack, has also remained tight-lipped. The British racing driver has previously been linked to a few high-profile personalities, but this is the first time rumors have connected him with the pop icon Y/N.

The Miami Grand Prix weekend has always been a hotspot for celebrity encounters, but this year seems to have outdone itself. With both Y/N and Lando being at the peak of their careers, their possible romance is sure to capture headlines worldwide.

As the day progresses, fans and media alike are eagerly awaiting any statement from Y/N or Lando. Will this be the start of a new celebrity power couple, or just a fleeting moment of intrigue? Only time will tell.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

—

—

yourusername

liked by landonorris and 13,479,683 others

yourusername back in the studio ✨

view all 6,425 comments

user1 are you going to be singing about a particular muse? 🤨

user2 not lando liking , they’ll be the it couple once they make it official

��� user3 leave them alone

user4 this best be the juiciest song ever

↳ user5 right?! I need ALL the details 🤭

user6 everyone say it with me now, thank you Lando Norris!

user7 the queen is back in the studio!! can’t wait for new music

—

landonorris

liked by yourusername, oscarpiastri and 533,689 others

landonorris can you stay up all night?

view all 1,682 comments

user8 the caption 😂 are you referring you your night with y/n?

↳ user9 he must be lol

oscarpiastri for you, i obviously could

↳ landonorris wasn’t talking to you

↳ user10 he definitely meant the caption for @/yourusername

yourusername dripped out💧

↳ user11 SHE COMMENTED!!

—

yourusername

liked by charles_leclerc, landonorris and 12,562,728 others

yourusername So what you doing tonight?

view all 6,252 comments

user12 for you I’ll clear out my schedule

user13 SHES IN ENGLAND!! IS SHE MEETING LANDOS FAMILY?

↳ user14 yall love reaching

user15 I feel like the caption is a lyric 🤔

landonorris doin’ you right

↳ user16 KSJAJJA NOT LANDO REPLYING TO THE CAPTION

↳ user17 y/n and lando talk to eachother through the captions confirmed

↳ user18 GUYS I FEEL LIKE WERE NOT REACTING ENOUGH TO WHAT HE JUST SAID

—

—

EXCLUSIVE: Pop Star Y/N Set to Drop Steamy New Single “34+35” Inspired by Night with F1’s Lando Norris

In a sensational twist that’s bound to send fans into a frenzy, international pop icon Y/N is reportedly set to release a brand-new single titled “34+35,” inspired by her recent night with Formula 1 star Lando Norris. This exciting news comes hot on the heels of rumors surrounding their burgeoning romance, which have captivated the media and fans alike.

According to insiders close to the singer, Y/N penned the provocative track following her secret rendezvous with Lando in Monaco. The song, which is said to be both sultry and playful, delves into the intimate details of their night together, promising to leave listeners blushing.

A source from Y/N’s inner circle revealed, “Y/N was absolutely buzzing after her night with Lando. She went straight into creative mode and wrote ‘34+35’ in just a few hours. The chemistry between them has clearly sparked something incredible musically.”

The title “34+35” has already stirred intrigue and speculation, with savvy fans quick to decode its risqué implication – the sum of the numbers, hinting at a rather suggestive theme. This clever play on words is characteristic of Y/N’s bold and unapologetic style, which has earned her legions of dedicated followers.

Y/N took to social media earlier today to tease the upcoming release, sharing a cryptic post that simply read, “34+35 Midnight EST. Yall aren’t ready for this one” alongside a sultry photo of herself. The post has since gone viral, racking up millions of likes and comments as fans eagerly anticipate the drop.

Lando Norris, who has remained coy about his relationship status, added fuel to the fire by retweeting Y/N’s post and leaving a cheeky comment: “Can’t wait to hear this one 😉.” His playful interaction has only intensified the buzz, with many speculating about the depth of their connection.

As the clock ticks down to midnight EST, the anticipation for “34+35” is reaching fever pitch. Fans across the globe are gearing up for what promises to be one of Y/N’s most talked-about releases yet. Given the star power of both Y/N and Lando, the single is expected to top charts and dominate playlists within hours of its release.

This unexpected collaboration between the world of pop music and Formula 1 has everyone talking, and it’s clear that Y/N knows how to keep her audience on their toes. Whether this sizzling track will reveal more about her relationship with Lando or simply offer a tantalizing glimpse into their night together, one thing is certain – “34+35” is set to be the summer’s hottest hit.

Stay tuned for the drop at midnight EST and prepare to be captivated by Y/N’s latest musical masterpiece.

—

yourusername

liked by oscarpiastri, landonorris and 4,572,792 others

yourusername 34+35 out now!! Give it a listen, it’s a juicy one 💋

view all 8,628 comments

user19 HELLO THAT WAS THE MOST PUSSY CLENCHING SONG EVER AND ITS ABOUT LANDO?!

↳ user20 it’s not confirmed

↳ user21 an insider from y/ns team confirmed it in a recent article

landonorris Grammy when?

↳ oscarpiastri you don’t deserve to be the muse of a song

↳user22 someone’s jealous

user23 everyone pls thank Mr Lando “doin you right” Norris

↳ user24 they were teasing the song 😭

user25 THE EARTHQUAKE LYRIC, YALL NASTYYY I LIKE IT

↳ user26 and the go till the sunrise lyric 😭 she was hinting at her leaving his place in the morning

—

—

EXCLUSIVE: Y/N’s New Single “34+35” Drops, Sends Fans into Frenzy – Provocative Lyrics Hint at Night with Lando Norris

June 1, 2024:

The wait is over, and pop sensation Y/N has delivered once again. Her highly anticipated new single “34+35” dropped at midnight EST, and it’s already taking the music world by storm. Fans and critics alike are abuzz with the song’s steamy lyrics, which seem to directly reference her rumored night with Formula 1 star Lando Norris.

The provocative track has left no room for subtlety, with lyrics that paint a vivid picture of their encounter. The lines, “Started at midnight, go till the sunrise,” hint at Y/N’s early morning exit from Lando’s Monaco apartment, an event that was captured by an eagle-eyed fan and ignited widespread speculation.

As the song progresses, Y/N doesn’t hold back. The chorus boldly states, “Can you stay up all night? Fuck me ’til the daylight,” leaving listeners blushing and confirming the nature of her rendezvous with the racing driver. The line “You drink it just like water (water) / You say, ‘It tastes like candy’” adds an extra layer of intimacy, further fueling the scandalous narrative.

Within hours of its release, “34+35” skyrocketed to the top of the charts, with streaming platforms reporting record-breaking numbers. Social media exploded with reactions, as fans dissected every lyric and speculated about the details of Y/N’s night with Lando.

One Twitter user wrote, “Y/N really said NO SECRETS with ‘34+35.’ This song is 🔥🔥🔥,” while another commented, “I can’t believe she actually wrote a song about her night with Lando! #34+35 is a bop.” The hashtag #34+35 quickly trended worldwide, with thousands of tweets and posts flooding in.

Adding to the excitement, Lando Norris himself commented on Y/N’s Instagram post announcing the song with a cheeky “Grammy when?” His playful remark has only intensified the buzz, as fans eagerly anticipate further interactions between the two.

The song’s boldness and raw honesty have been praised by many, with some calling it Y/N’s most daring release to date. Music critic Jenna Martinez noted, “Y/N has never shied away from expressing her truth through music, but ‘34+35’ takes it to a whole new level. It’s a fearless, unapologetic celebration of passion and connection.”

Industry insiders suggest that “34+35” could be a contender for Song of the Summer, with its infectious beat and headline-grabbing lyrics ensuring it stays on heavy rotation. The music video, rumored to be in the works, is expected to drop soon and promises to be just as sensational as the song itself.

Y/N’s daring approach has not only captured the public’s attention but also solidified her status as a pop icon unafraid to push boundaries. With “34+35,” she has delivered a track that is as catchy as it is controversial, proving once again why she is at the top of her game.

As the world continues to buzz about Y/N and Lando’s possible romance, one thing is certain: “34+35” is more than just a song – it’s a cultural moment. Fans will undoubtedly be talking about this release for a long time to come, eagerly watching for the next chapter in this tantalizing story.

—

taglist: @iheartmonaco @orgasming-caterpillar @thearchieves

[tinfoil-jones]

How did the mayor elections go in the Jerk Ford universe? Cause Stanley would have no reason to run for mayor, and even if he did, the twins wouldn't have to help him

Some of the Stanchurian Candidate was handled Here.

The reason Stanley was running for Mayor was at the behest of the younger Mystery Twins, because Mabel and Dipper knew that Gideon was gunning for the position via his dad, and there was no way they'd let the town be under Gideon's control.

Gideon has even more disdain against the whole Pines family due to Stan confiscating his amulet, Dipper beating him up, and what Jerk Ford did to his family.

Stan may still be well-liked by the community, but some of the townsfolk have recently soured their opinion of him because even if they don't know how he did it, he must be the reason Jerk Ford is back because no one else would ever even think about trying to bring him back.

@aroace-get-out-of-my-face suggested way back in the OG post that part of Stan's canpaign would be "I will make sure my brother goes into town less."

While Stan does agree to run for mayor, he refuses to make that a part of his campaign.  So the kids have to be creative.

In one of the Journals, Jerk Ford had written about an invention called "The Free Will Tie", and how it "protected the wearer against brainwashing, possession, suggestions, and political cartoons". Dipper had gotten better at deciphering Ford's trolling and deduced that it must do the opposite and mind control the wearer instead.

They ask Jerk Ford for the tie and he vehemently refuses, saying something along the lines of his tech didn't need grubby little fingers messing with it. So they wait for him to fall asleep in the living room (Jerk Ford didn't sleep in the basment or his old bedroom, because "he didn't like sleeping anywhere that didn't have multiple exits") and once he's asleep they sneak into his lab and steal the mind control tie.

Things go pretty similarly to how it does in canon, with Gideon controlling his father via possession spell, the only difference is he's doing this from a safe distance away in the woods and not from jail, since he didn't go to jail in this.

Things go awry as they did in canon when the dynamite is set off on the monunent with the twins on it- Stan initially tries to save them like he did in canon, except this time he's unable to because Soos pushes him to the ground and beats him with a shovel because the sparks had set him on fire.

So the twins do fall from the manuments nose, with the ropes untying them from the chairs some point before the fall. Without her grappling hook, Mabel can only cling onto Dipper as they descend to their untimely deaths.

There's bone cracking sounds - but not from her or Dipper. Someone caught them before they could hit the ground and to their shock it was Grunkle Stan's brother.

He looks at them both quickly - checking to see if they're okay?? - before carefully setting them both down. One of his arms is at a weird angle it isn't supposed to be at, and there's a little bit of blood coming out of the corner of his mouth so he must have an internal injury, but neither of those things are what's disturbing about Jerk Ford right now.

He's completely silent. He says nothing - he's always got a rude remark or witty remark that is also rude ready. But not now. Now he's just stalking towards the stage, and every person he passes also suddenly goes quiet.

Dipper is also at a loss for words, clinging back to Mabel as she still is to him, he had seen Jerk Ford sprint out of the treeline. He'd heard from his stories that he was more of a runner, but he didn't know a man his age could run that fast. Wendy runs out of the crowd to go check on the twins.

At this point Soos had managed to take out the fire on Stan, and was helping him back up, Jerk Ford doesn't stop his stride but he does at least glance over at his brother and nephew, confirming by sight that they're both okay.

Stan's trying to say something to his brother but he's coughing too much to form words and Soos is desperately trying to keep him from making any sudden moves, he seems to be trying to break away for some reason.

Everyone's silent in the crowd as Jerk Ford stops right in front of Bud's podium.

Then in a flash he leaps right over it at Gleeful and starts beating the dog sh*t out of him. Bud doesn't stand a chance.

Take in mind, this is Bud's size in comparison to Stan in canon:

Also take in mind, Jerk Ford is scrawny compared to his canon self. And in fact, according to the AUs artist @tearosepedall, Jerk Ford is also slightly shorter than his canon counterpart.

So everyone just watches in horror as an old man with a broken arm and multiple broken ribs savagely beats a younger guy three times his size like he owes him money, and is showing no signs of slowing down, stopping, or mercy.

Wendy is compelled to cover the twins' eyes because not only is the beating that bad, but none of them knew Jerk Ford could be scary, isn't he supposed to be just some nuisance? Nuisances are supposed to be harmless! And he said he prefers elusion over fighting.

Dipper gets a cold, sinking revelation that Jerk Ford could have easily snapped him in half any of the times Dipper has hit or tried to hit him with a blunt object.

Bud gets into pretty bad shape at the assault, which doesn't stop until Gideon also runs out of the treeline crying and begging Jerk Ford to please don't kill his dad it wasn't his fault he'll leave his family alone just please stop.

Gideons bellowing causes a chain reaction of Jerk Ford halting his beat down, Stan finally breaking free from Soos' hold and running over to pull his brother off of Gleeful, and Wendy with the twins in tow also running towards the stage.

Whatever Stan did or said to Jerk Ford must have flipped a switch because as Wendy, Dipper, and Mabel are on the stage with the rest of the mystery crew, Jerk Ford is back to his normal self, because he makes a grumpy remark about how the kids "fell on him because he just happened to be standing there".

Now everyone votes for Stan because they're too scared of what Jerk Ford will do them if they don't, and Stan wins the election (also Bud Gleeful gets picked up by an ambulance), however Stan ends up turning down the position of mayor to Tyler Cutebiker, the last remaining candidate, citing that he's realized he needs to focus more on his family.

They go home and Jerk Ford takes some kind of weird medicine out of his bag and injects himself with it - he explains to Stanley that it's something that can heal bone breaks in the span of a few minutes (Broken Bone Serum), but the kids didn't hear this because as soon as he's healed, Mabel runs in with stickers, gauze, glitter glue, and ace wrap demanding to cast Jerk Ford's arm.

Jerk Ford lets her do so but he complains the whole time, which doesn't dampen her spirits in the slightest.

What does dampen her spirits however is that when Stan caught on fire it burnt off a bunch of his hair so now he has short hair and a more disturbing resemblance to his 'bad' twin (something that irks Dipper). Mabel is so sad because she can't braid Stan's hair anymore! Who else is she going to braid train with in this house? (It might not be spotted initially but in the artists design for Stan he has long hair that he pulls into a ponytail or a braid)

[quilly72]

Part 1

It wasnt often a small factory in the middle of Kansas made a breakthrough that could change the world. A new growth formula for plants had been concocted by their best operators and researchers. They called it MiracleGro. It specifically targeted the female aspects of the plants causing them to grow anywhere from 5 to even 50 times it's original size depending on how much was used and how concentrated it was.

Hitomi and her team were ecstatic. They had made a strawberry plant capable of creating strawberries that were as big as someone's head or fruit trees that soared above the 5 story factory.

They were so close and so excited they just needed to figure out one little side effect for whatever reason their growth formula had the inverse reaction on any male parts of the plant. Decreasing pollen and the ability for these plants to reproduce. If they wanted to use this they would need to figure it out.

1 week went by and nothing

2 weeks and the pressure started to mount up. The world wanted to see it work. Rival companies tried to steal the formula.

And management was getting antsy for results.

Stress started to build up mistakes started to happen more often. Something was bound to go wrong. Week 3 was the worst mistake yet Gary under stress and the sound of machines whirring around failed to double check that the lines had been repressurized. Spreading a coworker with the miracleGro. Alarms went off authorities were called but it was too late in seconds thee inspector caught in the midst started to shrink and slide further into his clothes. In seconds he disappeared underneath them and was lost forever.

Gary was fired almost immediately. He begged pleaded and cried and then on his way out threatened but it was no use. Ypu just wish they had taken his threat seriously.

Week 4 day 3 Hitomi thought it was a normal day. Mixing chemicals in tablets larger than her car trying to perfect the formula. They were close they just needed time. Time that they didn't have. As the machine stopped mixing the formula they waited with baited breath for the light to turn green. Instead it illuminated red. It was no good. The sound of a liquid vacuum was heard as the facility flushed and disposed of the formula. Back to square 1. Hitomi started to walk off she needed to vent she needed a break they were so close yet so far. As she started to want she noticed the fire exit was propped open. Um guys who opened the door. She looked around but no one was willing to dress up. Removing the pack that held the door open she knew something was off but what

Suddenly a large bang was heard in the adjoining room. Like a cabinet had fallen. Then screams and shouts. Hitomi ran over as she tried to see what was happening. They the glass windrow she saw Gary a blockade formed over the door and a small fire trail being formed to which Gary was pouring a gasoline trail for right on over to the main tank of formula. Hitomi yanked and tried to solve the door open as the sound of metal and concrete dragged across the room. Gary don't do it Gary please think about what you are doing. He ignored her he looked drunk and based off the amount of unconscious people in the room he also wasnt looking to reason

Hitomi continued to try and shove the door open as an alarm was heard across the factory. All personal evacuate. All personal evacuate immediately. Flashing lights and walking alarms filled the floor as Gary took a lighter and sparked it on. Hitomi shoved her entire body into the door. The door finally pushing forward enough for her to start forcing her way in right As the emergency fire doors started to shut and close access off. Scrambling over the metal cabinetry she barely made it as the fire proof door snapped shut. But ultimately it was too late as she begged him to stop Gary dropped the lighter. It lit up in second talking over to the main tank. Hitomi finally squeezed her hips and legs thru the door as she grabbed a fire extinguisher. She tried to rush over as Gary swing a 2 by 4 at her. Hitomi dove for the floor as he blocked her path. Gary you can't do this. Just let me put it out we can talk about this. Gary swung again. Hitomi backed up tripping backwards as she fell to the floor. Panick filling her body. The alarm blasting and walked across the concrete walls and the metal roof. The sounds of people running and screaming as they tried to make it out of the building. The for spread around the room quickly. Boiling the tank from underneath as Gary pointed her to the floor. Hitomi screamed and kicked as she tried to get him off of her. But it was no use he was stronger and more determined. Her breathing was being cut spurt by the 2 by 4 that was being slowly named into her throat. She gasped for anything as she heard the rivets of the tanker start to pop off. The metal expanding and buckling as the temperature of the room skyrocketed.

More alarms sounding as critical systems started to fail. Hitomi felt herself blacking out as blood pressure to her brain was being constricted finally grasping the extinguisher as she sent it at Gary. He buckled in seconds as he collapsed without another word.

Hitomi stood up as she rushed to the panels. The button hot to the touch as the flames lapped at her body. She flipped the switches and started the formulas evacuation process trying to flush the system free as she heard the metal groan again. A couple more rivets bursting as small drops of condensation started to accumulate on the outside of the metal.

Come on COME on she muttered as her body sweat under the heat. The system at her fingertips starting to fail. Coolant offline. Pressure skyrocketing emergency backup generators cut off. Hitomi hit the emergency flush system as she heard the pipes start to rattle the tanker flushing the miracleGro out of the factory to be disposed of as she heard a hiss of heat break above her.

Hitomi dove as a splash of thick green sludge sprayed the walls above her. The tanker was bursting not all the formula had been taken out the rest of it finally exploding out. Hitomi looked up to see the pipes and other tanks started to fail as she looked at her control panel.

Her face turned gaunt white as she saw the words critical failure pop up. She heard it before she saw it. Right before the pipes left the building and dove underground the flushing system malfunctioned. The heat was too much the rest of the formula sprayed explosively against the ground and immediately vaporized against the heat of the flames. Hitomi tried to to run but before she could make it to the other room the steam enveloped and filled the entire room. She dove and broke out in to the adjoining room as the fire door flung open. Hitomi scrambled across the floor as she swung the door shut the last of the vapor trickling across the ground at her legs before dissolving harmlessly away.

Hitomi leaned across the wall as she felt the cool air finally envelop her trying to calm herself down as she struggled to breath. Her lungs felt like they were on fire. Her skin was vibrating and shivering as hitomi struggled to find energy to take herself outside of the factory to her assigned evacuation rendezvous.

As she finally caught her breath she started to stand up supporting herself against the wall. The sounds of the fire and pipes and metal breaking still heard from the other side.

Hitomi finally got up to her feet. Her body ached. She felt so sore and tired. Her body still shivering especially her legs. They couldn't even support her with how bad they wobbled. Hitomi pressed her hands against her knees trying to stabilize them as she heard a rumble shake across her entire body from within her.

Before she could blink she shot upwards with the force of a bullet. Her legs spasmed underneath her as she fell back against the wall. Her dress shrunk and shriveled on her as her shoes burst open her toes crawling out in seconds. Her body groaning and stretching her clothes as they constricted her breath.

Fuck no it's not possible I thought I got out in time this can't ...fuck

Her body violently soasmed again as she soared up another foot. Her face grimacing against the pressure as she cried out in pain. Her boobs exploded forward busting her zipper in half as her ass dragged it off her chest. Her dress feebly folding down her body and falling at her sides. Her back scratching against the concrete as she soared up to 6 ft tall. Her bra struggled against her new breasts as they lifted up and dug into her shoulders.

Fuck owww no get this off please fuck fuck FUUCKK. Hitomi surged again another Two feet. Her dress withered off into the corner as the fabric finally gave. Her hips spring her thong off as well as her bra gave out from the shoulder and back straps fluttering to the floor in seconds. Her head bobbed up crashing into the roof as she bent forward. Her head bending the metal roof up as she tried to squat down.

She was massive her boobs the size of volleyballs her hips were a foot and a half wide. Hitomi tried to get somewhere abit more suited for her but before she could even really try she grew again and again and again. Her neck and shoulders hit the roof as she fell to her knees. Her breathing filled the room as her chest bobbed higher and higher. Bulging out further and further. Her feet dragged across the floor as she fell to all 4s her head still dragging across the metal tiles and breaking them upwards. Her butt cushioning over legs as she struggled to find room. A table and cabinet full of cleaning supplies was first to succumb and burst after falling under her. Her legs pressing them into the walls and then splintering them around her. Soon her head broke thru the roof into the floor above as her legs broke down the concrete wall and dragged into the next room. Floor after floor room after room as she cried and screamed. Her body too feeble to even try to stop the onslaught.

Outside her coworkers watched as the fire started to die down the smoke dissipating as a giant green cloud of vapor rose up above them into the rainclouds above. They didn't have Long to worry about their fate as the ground under them shook. A giant cry washing over the fields as the factory started to collapse and break. Sounds of metal grinding and folding. Concrete crumbling as the ground shook again and again. Then hitomi burst thru. Her body folding out of the fourth floor. Her legs tearing down the foundation ad she rolled and collapsed. She was easily 100 ft tall or more. It was hard to tell as she failed across the ground. She shook so violently most of the bystanders fell to the ground as she grew again. Her feet digging into the soil as dragging forward. Her head approaching closer as her arms flailed outwards. Her hips crashing the rests of the building down into her. The final puffs of green vapor distributing out across the fields. The grass growing the trees groaning as they stretched taller. Even some of the evacuation groups seeing the men shrink or some of their woman to grow no assets or grow a foot or two. Their houses or factory wear breaking off.

It didn't matter though another surge sent hitomi enveloping the closets groups underneath her. The trees and grass folding under her. The wheat being smashed tk the ground as she towered above the hills.

The furthest groups accepted their fate as a final surge sent her body piledriving over them. Hitomis cries for helps serving them no use as they all fell underneath the curves of her body.

By the time it was all over a helicopter caught hitomi in her new beauty. Measuring her at an astounding 236 ft tall. However the world caught hold of anew fear. The clouds above turning a sick green as they approached the nearby towns. The rain causing all the local plants and wildlife to grow and surge taller as it approached closer and closer.

[lovelettersforthedamned]

are we going to find a hockey!peter angsty (like when him and bug are still kinda hate fucking) under our tree?

Pick Up

✰ college!hockey!peter parker x f!reader

✰ word count: 0.9k

✰ summary: giving peter a taste of his own medicine feels good.

✰ warnings: language, angst, fluff, sexual innuedos at the end, a deep kiss.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

i think santa left this under your tree ;).

gif by @ddlovatosrps

The chilled air inside the rink sniped at your cheeks, but the fire that sparked through your nerves kept your body warm. 

You were practically seething in anger, and yet no one knew. You always tried to keep your calm, but when it came to Peter? He made it close to impossible. 

It was hard to be upset at Peter while watching him play. The crowd surrounding him adored him. You would go far enough to say that some girls would kill to be in your position. Who wouldn’t want to keep ‘hockey captain’ Peter’s bed warm? 

At this point? You wouldn’t, and you wish you never did. 

 Your mind was completely distracted until the last second of the previous period. Another win for Peter, of course. After parting with the opposing team and celebrating with his teammates, he liked to make his way to the glass, greeting you and making sure you met with him outside of the locker room. 

But as he was scanning the bleachers for the jersey you always wore, you weren’t there. His eyebrows furrowed in confusion, only to see you already at the exit, shoving open the door. Clearing his throat, he tries to throw away the odd feeling of disappointment. 

The both of you were trying to walk as fast as possible, only you were walking home while Peter was trying to catch you before you made it far. The speed he undressed and packed all of his things was astonishing, and his teammates questioned his haste on his way out. Peter carried a look of determination on his face, making them step out of his way. 

As you were weaving through the cars in the parking lot, you mentally cursed the size of the lot. You swore you were walking as fast as possible, yet the main street was still so far away. “Bug,” a voice yelled out behind you. Your body tenses for a second, knowing who is calling out for you. Yet, you refuse to turn around, pretending to not hear him. 

Peter calls out for you again, this time, his voice is louder. You barely have time to take another breath as he suddenly appears next to you. Looking over at him, he’s out of breath. He’s the last person you wanted to see, “What.” You didn’t phrase it as a question. You were genuinely looking for the quickest way out of this conversation as fast as possible. 

“I didn’t see you at the glass,” he pauses, “or outside the locker room.” 

“Mhm,” you nod, letting him put in the work for once. 

Peter’s getting fed up with your attitude. He’s trying to get to the bottom of it and you’re not making it easy. He huffs out a frustrated laugh, “And why’s that, bug?” A hint of irritation in his voice doesn’t go unnoticed. 

A flicker of satisfaction makes your body tingle. It feels nice knowing that you’re the one playing with Peter’s mind. It almost makes you giggle. Biting your lip, you cut him some slack. “Someone was supposed to pick me up from the train station today,” you sigh dramatically, “but they didn’t; so I had to find a ride. Can you believe it?” You were milking it, but you couldn’t stop now.

“Fuck, I am so sorry–,” you grab his arm, silencing him. 

“Why are you apologizing, Petey? Unless you were the one who had to pick me up? That couldn’t be you, because you wouldn’t forget,” you were almost at the point of yelling at this point, causing the people around you to stare. Letting go of his arm, you smile sweetly before starting to walk away from him. 

“(Y/N),” he reaches for your hand, “I’m so sorry. I’ll make it up to you, I swear.” You stop as he holds your hand before he pulls you closer to him. You don’t dare look at him, your eyes avoiding any sort of contact with his. You’ve made it this far. Don’t crack now. 

A whisper of a laugh escapes your lips, “You’re funny if you think you’re getting another chance to make it up.” Your body is screaming to wriggle out of his soft hold and walk away, but you remain there. And you mentally cursed yourself for it. 

Peter’s searching for your eyes, the eyes he loved. He remembers how quickly your eyes switched from soft to fierce, and he loves that about you. You could never hide your true feelings from your eyes, they seemed to give you away every single time. “Cmon bug,” he places two fingers under your chin, revealing your irritated expression, “that’s not true, and you know it.”

You sharply move your chin from his touch, rolling your eyes in the process, “Fuck you.” 

He wraps an arm around the back of your neck, effectively pulling you into his chest, and planting a kiss to the crown of your head. “I wasn’t saying all that to make you feel better by the way,” he mutters into your scalp, “I will make it up to you.”

Tilting your head up and away from his shirt, you look up at him. You still have an obvious pout on your face, “You promise?”

Peter laughs and leans down to place a kiss on your lips. He pulls you in tight as he deepens the kiss. Pulling away he looks at your lips and then up to your eyes, “I promise, bug. I can even start tonight.” 

“Well then we better hurry home,” you smirk. 

Peter reaches into his back pocket, pulling out his car keys. That stupid boyish smile on his face, reaching his eyes.

✰ author's note: HI YALLL!!! you guys can't get enough of hockey peter and i understand (what did i create). ALSO MERRY CHRISTMAS FOR THOSE WHO CELEBRATE!!! and happy holidays for those that don't!!! extending all my love to everyone this holiday season!! don't forget to like, comment, and reblog if you enjoyed!! send in more requests and asks if you would like :) till next time, byeeee.

[cherthegoddess]

Request for an Evan Buckley imagine: y/n is also a firefighter at the 118, but she gets trapped in a fire while the building is partly collapsing and the 118 has to go in to save her 😎

Burning Love

Evan Buckley x Reader

Warnings: This was written with a black reader in mind but anyone can read it!

Word Count: 1.1k+

Burning Love

“Nothing like a factory fire to start the day,” Y/n said with a grin to Buck. “Yeah as long as you don’t do anything reckless.” Hen laughs loudly at his remark. “That’s funny coming from you Buckaroo.” Y/n shot back sticking out her tongue. Both Y/n and Buck were known to pull the heroics not caring if they got hurt in the end. Y/n more so after her near-death experience during an earthquake. 

The crackles and snaps could be heard as they pulled into the scene. Cap began barking out orders quickly as he assessed the fire. A hand sanitizer factory sparked a fire that was quickly going up in flames. The sprinklers jammed. Workers, along with other stations, are firefighters walking out from the burning building. “Hen! Chimney! Head on over to the workers! See what the other paramedics need help with.  Buck! Y/n! See if there are any more workers inside. Eddie! Let’s try to get this fire tamed! And try to see why these sprinklers aren’t working.” The crew quickly got to work moving into the spaces that they were told by Bobby. Buck and Y/n make their way to the blazing inferno to look at where they could enter. One of Station 124 firefighters walked past with a person coughing on their arm. “There’s a few more people inside!” The firefighter yelled. Y/n and Buck nod, making their way inside gear strapped securely to them. 

The room was covered in flames. There was not much that the fire did not touch. Luckily the hand sanitizer was one of them. “Let’s find these people and get outta here before these flames get worse.” Buck yelled over to Y/n She nodded and started moving, “Is anyone in here?!” They moved further into the building. “Over here! We’re over here!” Behind a couple of boxes lay a man and a woman. The woman was trapped under a pillar, clearly with a broken leg at the least. The chalky flames made their face covered in ash. The man tried his best to pull the pillar up, but he was unsuccessful. “What’s your name?” Y/n called out as both Buck and her ran over. “I’m Max and this is Saddie. Please help us, I’ve been trying to get this beam off of her but I can’t.” They quickly got into action, pushing the beam up not before making sure there wasn’t any other damage. They pulled Saddie’s body out, Buck allowing her to grab his shoulders. “Is there anyone else in this building?” The two shook their heads no. Max could walk so they made their way to the exit. Something caught Y/n’s eye and without Buck noticing she went to go see if there was someone else. Sure enough, there lay a woman trapped in what looked like some sort of machinery. Y/n clicked her walkie, “Guys I’m gonna be out soon. I found one more woman!” There was a pause before a response. “Y/n you were supposed to be evacuated with Buck,” Cap said sternly. “Sorry Cap! I promise I’ll be out soon.” Y/n starts working to feel the woman’s pulse. It was steady even in her unconscious state. She begins pushing the machinery off of the woman, but the woman starts to wake up and in pain. “Ma’am, I promise I’m going to get you out from under there.” The woman groans. Once the pieces were completely off of the woman, Y/n did her best to keep her up and started walking towards the exit. “Okay, Cap I’m on my way out!” She spoke too soon as the fire got stronger and catching some of the hand sanitizers lighting them up as well. “Cap, we may have a problem. The hand sanitizers caught flame and I don’t think we can get outta here. What’s the eta on the sprinklers?” The woman began to cough. “Y/n, I thought I told you not to play hero.” It was Buck this time. He wasn’t his usual goofy self this time either. He was clearly upset and worried about her. “You should know me by now Buck, I don’t listen. That’s beside the point, the sprinklers?” The flames get stronger. “We’re still trying to get them going. In the meantime try to find an alternate way out.” Bobby responds. Y/n looks around, there are just too many flames. The woman’s condition slowly starts to worsen as the smoke gets stronger. 

On the outside, Buck was pacing, waiting for someone to figure out how they could help Y/n. “Bobby, just let me go in! I need to help her.” Bobby looked sternly at Buck. “Buck, I know how you feel about her but I also know her. She’s a fighter.” Buck glares. He’s in love with her, has been for a while and he knew she was the one as soon as she walked into the station. Buck couldn’t lose her without her knowing that. 

Y/n back on the inside started to make a way out after finding a fire extinguisher nearby and putting it to work. The woman is slightly better, walking on her own. “Okay ma’am, I think we made a clear enough path that we can walk through.” The woman limps lightly over grabbing onto Y/n to walk steadily. “We’re getting out of here.”

Buck works with Eddie to fix the sprinklers since at every turn Cap stops him from going in. They just about had it when an explosion rang out. Buck and Eddie rushed over to see if Y/n was there and she wasn’t. Buck starts to tear up, mouth agape. “No, no, no” Eddie brings Buck into a bear hug as he cries. “Wait, Buck, look!” Eddie pulls him to turn around. And there she is, Y/n walking with the woman. And the sprinkler starts finally going off. Hen and Chimney rush to the two to check to see if they are okay. The woman gets taken away by Hen and Chimney. “Thanks, guys,” Y/n said as Hen tapped her on her back. “Glad you’re alive, kid.” Buck watched from a distance, in shock that she was alive. Y/n walks over to Buck with a smile. “I know you said not to do anything reckless, but you know I can’t help it. Besides, you know I always come back-” Her voice was covered with a kiss. His hands went straight for her cheeks. He slightly pulls away to apologize but she pulls him back in deepening it, her gloved hands gripping the ends of his hair. Chim and Hen whoop in the background and Bobby smiles at the scene. When they finally pull apart, they grin at each other. “Took you long enough Buckaroo. Been waiting a whole 6 months for that.” Buck laughs, I promise I’ll make up for all that I missed, but first a date.” Y/n nods and smiles pecking his lips again. “Chim you owe me 30,” Hen says with her hand out.

Soooo I kinda didn't do the last part but we love a woman who can save herself! I hope you like it even with the slight change! But please send more requests!

@https-a1

@faatxma

@stilesstilinskivoid

@meekmillsfrenchfries

@unlikelysportsllamakid

@whoopigol-barnes

@thecurlyhairedgoddess

@dianawritessometimes

@lovebyceleste

@daphnescorner

@quaksonhehe

@im-marypoppins-yall

@motheroffae

[imadeitworseyourwelcome]

The Dead Don't Heal

Previous

Part 2- you are here

Returning to the nemesis Starscream felt like he was in a haze. Skyfire slowly trudged behind Megatron.

He didn't so much as look his way. He wasn't looking at anyone. His eyes were hollow, empty. There was no emotion on his face.

The only sign of life was the unnatural purple glow of his optics.

The centuries of frost had left chips and small fissures in his armor. Sections of paint had been stripped away by shifting ice and his less than graceful extraction.

Starscream finally snatched his gaze away from Skyfire as the main screen flickered to life. Soundwave called up a recording- no a live feed of the autobots battling vechicons in an energon mine.

Megatron let out an annoyed snarl, but after a moment his scowl shifted to an evil grin, "Perhaps this is the perfect opportunity to test out my new warrior," he gestured to Skyfire.

Starscream felt his spark drop and he immediately blurted, "No!" 

Though the glare Megatron fixed on him made him realize he had acted rashly. Speaking without thinking.

"You continue to question my judgment?!" Megatron snapped, prompting Skyfire to take a menacing step forward.

"No, no! Of course not." He bowed his head, unable to bare looking at Skyfire being used as a weapon. "What I meant was, the drones can easily fight off the autobots." He explained quickly, "Why waste such an element of surprise on a spent energon mine?"

He chose his words carefully, Megatron was more than eager to throw Skyfire into battle.

He'd do anything to keep Skyfire out of harms way.

Megatron took a moment, resting his hand on his chin as he thought.

"Hmm... perhaps." He finally nodded, "Starscream, take a squad to defend the energon mine."

"As you command, Lord Megatron," He turned on his heel and quickly walked out of the room. As soon as the doors closed behind him he took off running towards the deck of the nemesis. He didn't dare give Megatron time to change his mind.

.

.

.

He and the squad quickly made their way to the energon mine.

By the time they arrived, the autobots had exited the mine, pursued by what was left of the vechicons already on site.

Starscream led the fliers on a pass over the autobots, sending them diving for cover.

The autobots now split up, returned fire. It felt like they were shooting from all angles.

Being in the sky was supposed to be an advantage.

He broke away from the rest of the fliers and swooped low, weaving among the abandoned mining equipment and rubble.

Starscream transformed, skidding across the ground. He aimed a rocket as he stopped, shooting it at Arcee and Bumblebee, who were breaking off and moving to flank them.

Forcing them back behind their cover.

The vechicons moved up to support him. If they kept the pressure on them, they would overwhelm them in no time.

A familiar noise caught his attention, it was barely audible over the gunfire. The rumble of a large engine coming closer.

"No-" he gasped as he turned to see

Skyfire's alt mode approaching, flying right towards the autobots.

Skyfire transformed, landing hard and sending up a cloud of dust. He stalked towards the autobots, who were caught off guard by an unknown bot joining the fight.

They quickly realized he was no ally, and split their attention between the vechicons and him.

Starscream swore under his breath. They had been used as a distraction.

Skyfire's movements were uncoordinated but strong. His heavy strikes swung wide, easy to predict, and easy to dodge. But with the decepticons long range and Skyfire up close, they were starting to lose ground.

The autobots' blasters peppered Skyfire's thick armor, but he continued to advance, undeterred.

Starscream prayed that he wasn't able to feel the pain...

It felt like a dagger to the spark, seeing his conjunx reduced to a mindless husk. Forced to fight a war he never knew.

Starscream transformed and took the the sky, doing his best to lay down cover fire for Skyfire.

Forcing the autobots away from him. At this point he didn't care if they escaped with the energon or not, he just wanted them to stop shooting Skyfire.

Finally, pinned down, the autobots called for a groundbrige and soon retreated through it with their spoils.

As soon as they were gone Skyfire stopped moving. Returning to standing still, staring blankly to where the portal had dissapeared.

The decepticons dispursed, leaving Starscream and Skyfire alone on the battlefield, among the whisps of smoke and blasterburns.

Starscream walked to stand infront of Skyfire. His gaze looked through him, still watching where the autobots had escaped.

Was this truly all that was left of Skyfire? Of his conjunx endura? Long dead and reduced to a puppet. Another pawn for Megatron to throw around.

Having Skyfire here, just out of reach. Stung more than when he was missing, lost somewhere on this wretched planet.

If he hadn't given up, if he'd just kept searching... maybe it wouldn't have come to this.

Starscream bit back tears as he snatched his gaze away. Everytime he looked at him, it was like he was losing him all over again.

He knew Megatron was doing this to be cruel. Parading him around just to torture him. As long as he showed that it bothered him, he would keep going.

He had to let go, know that his conjunx was dead. He died a long, long time ago.

The bot that stood before him isn't Skyfire. Not anymore. They were a stranger.

He steeled himself, looking up to bid his conjunx a final goodbye.

Only to find Skyfire looking back at him. Not through him, at him.

Starscream froze. There was still a haze to Skyfire's eyes, but Starscream swore they were a hint more blue than before.

Skyfire looked scared. His conjunx was there. And Starscream had almost given up on him...

But as quick as it had happened, his eyes went dull again. And he was gone.

"..Skyfire..?" Starscream choked on his words, a flicker of hope. That's what he had lived on for years. That's all he needed.

He had found Skyfire, he was still within his reach... now he needed to figure out how to get him back.

(Contrubutions by @sirtrashfire )

[zaynewifeysimp]

Since our boy Caleb is coming in early/mid Jan (half confirmed half not, tbh idk anymore) I will be dropping my theory regarding his 💥 scene and he how he is still alive and if grandma is still alive too.

*this all are purely from my brain, not an official lore

*made this because I'm bored af

P.s. : English is not my first language so pardon me if the sentences are confusing.

Theory 1

HE PLOTTED THE EXPLOSION

What actually happened?

Caleb planned that bombing and informed grandma from the start which is why he follows MC when she went out, so technically at that time, Grandma exited the house and the explosion happened. He used his evol (telekenisis) to save himself. Probably make barrier with some of the stuff at home. Or they have secret bunkers under the house.

Why did he do that?

Caleb faked their death (him & grandma's) because Ever is hunting them down. They probably want MC to be safe at the same time erase their trace (perhaps to avoid MC from hanging around with them, which will increase the probability for MC to get more entangled with Ever). Also, that bombing matched the current news of how some of the recent fire/bombing case that broke out in some area near their neighbourhood (Grandma's house) for 'no reason'. (I think I remember the news says it was from some common reasons like wire spark but we know it's not it)

Why Ever want them de@d?

Remember that, most of the victims that died in the news were related to Ever in their past. Grandma used to work with a research center (Gaia Research Center) that Ever invested in. This RC does experiments on evolver like MC and Caleb. That's also how she adopted both of them when they were kids after some things happened to the RC. Most of the researchers went to work with Ever but some that realised what they did was wrong, stopped pursuing the research which is why later, Ever starts hunting them down because they know too much.

Theory 2

EVER CAUSED THE EXPLOSION

What actually happened?

Ever caused that bombing and Caleb used his evol to save himself but unfortunately he wasn't able to save Grandma. Probably used his evol to save himself like make an invisible shield using particles around him or use some of the houses furniture to lessen the damage on himself. I came up with this because we never know how well he can control his evol but since he was an Airforce cadets, he probably controls it well. So he used that explosion as an opportunity to fake his death and hide his presence from the rest of the world including MC.

Why he hid for a long time?

Caleb disappearance will make Ever believes that they have eliminated both, Grandma and Caleb, so they won't be pursuing them anymore and MC will be safer. Also, I heard some players speculate that he went to N109 Zone where Sylus resides and hides there since it's hard for normal people especially non hunters to reach that place without the right cabel and ability to protect oneself. In his hiding, I think he frequent in and out to stalk MC too. He probably knows more about Ever than MC through Grandma since he seems to remember about their childhood more than MC. He probably starts investigating deeper into Ever or he already have leads and just continuing from there.

Theory 3

HE WORKS UNDER EVER

What actually happened?

This one is a bit wild but also many players already speculated this. He was told to eliminate Grandma which is why he made the explosion triggers at the same time he enters the house. This will makes Ever people thinks he is to naive to kill Grandma and decides to follow Grandma to heavens PFTTTT. But then let's just say Grandma is a wise granny and has a bunker under her house so that's where she stays most of the time if MC and Caleb is not around and she told Caleb about it one day, where Caleb decides to use the opportunity to fake their death. But poor MC got depressed thinking they're actually gone but it's a great plan since MC's emotion is so raw and real that everyone believes their death, including Ever.

Why I think he works with Ever?

Probably because Grandma is still alive despites being one of the main researcher that does experiments on those evolvers... Idk it's just a thought aka possibility. He might be in an undercover mission too. I don't really have explanations for this theory because I don't really have much interest in what he possibly own that will make him an important l.i like the others. Sylus having a crucial role for being Onychinus leader and a prominent figure in N109 Zone. Rafayel being the one to have most cable from both the dark market and normal market because of his popularity as an artist (I forgot what it's called so bear with me). Zayne being the renowned cardiology doctor that research about protocore syndrome for the sake of MC. Lastly, Xavier being the legendary Lumiere.

Like where is Caleb in all of that, right? Will he be portrayed as someone like Zayne where he's just a normal citizen that but gets entangled in things for MC sake? Or will be portrayed as someone like Sylus where he's is related to shady stuff in the background and a prominent figure somewhere but actually he's just making sure MC is safe?

END

mini continution with choatic writings

Okay, enough yapping for today. Have fun speculating while waiting for his arrival. Btw, he is gonna be my scandal, been waiting for him ever since I saw the chat with his name in it 😏

But, of course I'm forever loyal to our Dr. Zayne, forever my main 🙂‍↕️🫶🏻

[glitterguts13]

can I request a noncon / forced pregnancy with Xingqiu getting impregnated by a monster of your choosing from genshin (hilichurl, abyss creature, etc) and then Chongyun coming across him and is horrified to find Xingqiu with a full term belly and in labor, and then helping him through it 🙏

I was just thinking about this earlier!

I like to think hilichurls are born as mini versions of their adult selves, just smaller. Sort of like some animals, ready to hit the ground and go the second they leave the womb, and since there are so many of them across Teyvat, they must reproduce quickly with multiples. TW: NON-CON, GORE

Long, slender fingers grasp helplessly at the air. The hilt of his sword was right there, inches from his fingertips, if he could only stretch his arm a little more, he'd be alright. All he needed to do was try harder and reach further, and this beast would be dead in seconds-

An axe buries itself into the dirt close enough to his fingers he can feel the heat of the blade. Xingqiu pulls back, twisting, legs kicking out from under him before a large, dark-furred hand wraps around his left arm and pulls.

The socket almost pops out of place, and he screams. His lithe body made dodging incredibly easy, but it did nothing to help him fight his away out of the monster's firm hold.

"Let me go!" he howls, one leg coming up enough to kick the Mitachurl in the face, the mask doesn't budge, and the wind is knocked from his lungs as his small body is slammed into the ground.

The world spins above him, teeth aching from knocking together so sharply. The cool fall air is suddenly much more present, the clothes covering him being torn to ribbons.

"S-stop!" Xingqiu tries to struggle, but the Mitachurl clamps a hand down over his neck. Oxygen is quickly sucked from his lungs, eyes watering as a silent scream falls from his lips.

The monster's massive cock, weeping precum and rock hard, slams inside of him without any warning. His hole tears, hot pain shooting through him. Black and white spots blur his vision, ears ringing so loudly the young man can't even hear the breathy grunts the creature was letting out with each unforgiving piston of its hips.

By the time his hole is being pumped full of cum, belly bloating from the sheer amount of it, Xingqiu finally loses consciousness.

~~~ No word of Xingqiu has been uttered in weeks. Hope was lost after the first month, but Chongyun wouldn't allow himself to be so easily convinced. Xingqiu wasn't weak, he was out there, somewhere, waiting for help, and he wasn't going to fail his friend.

Mitachurl activety had increased a few miles outside of the Chasm, and as his claymore slices through the last of the outbreak, Chongyun's sharp ears catch something.

It's distant, nearly lost to the sound of howling winds, but Chongyun focuses harder.

It's sharp, coming in long wails before falling silent.

It was human, and whoever it was was in trouble.

Hope and fear sparks inside of him, boots pounding clouds of dust as Chongyun ran headlong towards the sounds of distress.

A small cave on the outskirts of the chasm, the remnants of a Hilichurl camp, the fire still smoking. Another desperate scream pierces the night air, and Chongyun is certain he knows that voice.

Crawling into the small space, he finds a hidden cove, filled with stolen blankets and some rotten food. Curled up against the mess, Xingqiu writhed helplessly. A chill ran down Chongyun's back at the sight of his dear friend.

He'd always been thin, but now, Xingqiu looked downright emaciated. His belly was grotesquely swollen, the skin pulled so tight it was nearly transparent. Something inside squirmed, pushing the mound into unnatural shapes and causing the young man to sob harder.

"U....ungh!" Xingqiu's legs snap open, a flood of liquid gushing from his leaking hole. The weight of his belly dropping, whatever was inside was pushing closer to its only exit.

"Xingqiu, Xingqiu, it's me!" finally finding his voice, he kneels beside of his friend, pushing the damp hair from his eyes. The young man looks up at him wildly, tears and snot coating his pale face.

"Don't look! Don't look at me, please!" he wails, trembling hands coming up to hold his bloated gut, "Don't look, please!"

"It's ok, you're going to be ok. I'm going to go get some hel-" the scream that fills the small cove causes Chongyun's stomach to drop. He hazards a look between his friend's legs, swallowing thickly at the sight of something dark and damp starting to bulge.

"It's coming out! Make it stop, please!" his legs curl back further, hands shooting down, trying to reach around his heavy womb to hide the sight of his crowning hole.

"No, no, you have to let it come out," Chongyun soothes, moving his hands back, "When it comes out, you won't be in pain anymore, ok? So let it come, push it out for me, ok?"

Xingqiu sobs, grunting weakly as he bore down. His efforts seemed weak, but the creature inside his body thrashed violently. His belly swaying from the force, the head of the hilichurl popping out without warning.

"No!" the young man continued to scream, sobbing, "Don't come out, don't come out!"

Chongyun feels bile rising in the back of his throat, the hilichurl's shoulder pops free, and the beast pulls itself from Xingqiu's twitching body.

Chongyun doesn't think, cleaving the monster down before it can stumble onto its legs.

"You did it, you did it Xingqiu, it's all ov-" horror fills him, heart nearly stopping when he realizes his friend's bloated belly was still squirming with life, the second Hilichurl already wiggling its way into his birth canal, as an unspecified number continue to slosh about in his fertile womb.

[moonlight0934]

Thunder And Lightning

Kaminari twists around, unsure of why he’s so uncomfortable. It takes him a minute to realize that the rain is pounding against his window, and he’s uncomfortable because of the electricity buzzing under his skin.

“Ugh, again?” Kaminari mutters, rubbing his eyes.

He sits up, twisting around to look at his clock. It’s only two thirty, so he flops back down.

I probably shouldn’t go back to sleep. It’s not like something normally happens when it storms, but just to be safe.

Kaminari drags himself out of bed, and heads to the common room. It’s quiet in there since everyone else is asleep, and it’s dark due to the storm, so Kaminari turns on one of the lamps. He drops onto the couch, and pulls his phone out of his pocket. He scrolls for a while before starting to drift off again. His hands still feel like they’re buzzing, and that feeling is enough to keep him up until four, but then he drifts off again.

He wakes up to someone screaming. His mind is running slow enough that it takes him a second to realize that the room is on fire. His body isn’t responding to his commands, and he can’t seem to figure out what’s going on. He tips off of the couch, and blacks out before he can even hit the floor.

Bakugo wakes up to the muffled sound of people, and a smoldering smell. He steps into the hallway, and people are heading to the back exit.

“What happened?” he asks, stopping Iida on his way out.

“Apparently there’s a fire of some sort in the common room. The fire fighters have been called, and we’re following fire protocols. You can follow the rest of the line to the lawn where we’re going to do a head count.”

Bakugo narrows his eyes.

“Do you know what caused the fire?”

“No, but the whole common room is on fire.”

“Is it still raining outside?”

“We don’t have time for all of these questions. We should be walking outside in a single file line.”

“Just answer the question.”

“It is, but you shouldn’t be worried about getting wet. I’m not sure how you didn’t hear it though.”

“Ok, I’m right behind you,” Bakugo says, trying to keep the sneer out of his voice.

He waits until Iida speed walks away to head towards the common room. It is on fire, but not enough that he can’t make it into the room without injury with his fire durability. There’s a hole in the ceiling, and that confirms what Bakugo already knew. He races over as Kaminari drops off of the couch. He’s crackling, and he almost immediately starts seizing.

Bakugo’s eyes widen, taking everything in. He kneels down nearby, and looks around for anything that would be safe to use as a device to touch Kaminari with. There isn’t anything nearby that isn’t on fire, and the smoke is starting to fill up the room.

Shit, I don’t know what to do.

Kaminari starts choking, and Bakugo makes a choice. He forces his hands as steady as possible, then pushes Kaminari onto his side. His brain immediately fuzzes out, but he makes sure to keep his hands on Kaminari for at least thirty seconds. His hands feel like they’re on fire, and his entire body is tingling when he comes back into his own body.

There’s a pile of vomit, but Kaminari isn’t actively choking, so Bakugo lets himself drop back. His fingers are bleeding, but he can’t really see the damage. He leans to the side, and throws up too. He coughs hard, still shaking. Kaminari whimpers, and Bakugo turns back to him.

“You’re going to be ok,” Bakugo whispers, setting his bleeding hands in his lap.

Smoke is continuing to fill the room, but Kaminari is still sparking so there’s no way that Bakugo can move him. Bakugo distantly thinks that he should have been counting how long the seizure lasts, but he can’t seem to think well enough to do that. Bakugo looks back down at his hands, trying to force his fingers to move, trying to force his hands to do anything productive. However, they won’t move.

They won’t even budge a little bit. He knocks his knee into one of them, and pain shoots up his arm. He still can’t feel anything other than pain in his hands or wrists. Kaminari finally goes still, and the electricity subsides. Bakugo coughs harshly.

I have to get him out of here while I still have time. If he slips back into another seizure before we get outside, then we’re not going to get out of here before we both suffocate. We can’t expect any help from Mr. Aizawa, because he was going to help with a raid tonight. I can’t bank on the fact that he’s back, but my hands won’t work.

Bakugo thinks for a few more seconds before hoisting Kaminari into his arms as best he can. He also slips back to the floor immediately, but Bakugo manages to tighten his arms around Kaminari before he can. He makes his way to the closest exit. He barely makes it out of the door before Kaminari starts to spark again. Bakugo blacks out again before he even starts legitimately seizing.

Kaminari wakes up feeling groggy and tense. There’s something beeping to his right, and he wants to swat at it so badly, but he can’t seem to move his limbs at all. Peeling his eyes open is one of the hardest things he’s done in a long time, but once he does, he can see Aizawa. He’s talking to someone, but that someone isn’t close enough for Kaminari to see them without moving his head. That seems like way too much effort. So, he just tries to say Aizawa’s name, but nothing comes out. He decides that all of this is too much work, so he lets himself drift away again.

He’s better rested, and more in control when he wakes up again. Aizawa is sitting in the corner of the room, his chin resting in his hand while he dozes. Kaminari coughs, realizing how sore his throat is. Aizawa’s eyes are open as soon as he refocuses from coughing.

“Kaminari, how are you feeling?”

“Not great, what happened?” Kaminari rasps as Aizawa grabs a water bottle from nearby.

Aizawa holds it for him while he drinks some, which is embarrassing, but not enough for Kaminari to reject the help.

“You were struck by lightning during the storm the other night. It started a fire, and you had a pretty major seizure.”

“Oh. Is everyone else ok? How did…”

“Bakugo went back to get you after deducing what had happened. Everyone other than you two got out of the building almost immediately. Apparently Bakugo has some pretty bad burns on his hands. Other than that, he’s fine.”

“What do you mean by pretty bad burns on his hands?”

“His fingers are almost black, and all of the nerves were damaged.”

Kaminari stares at him, blinking in surprise.

“Is he going to be ok?”

“We’re not sure. We know that it’s not going to heal completely, but that’s all we really know right now.”

“Oh, is that so?”

“Yes, but it’s not your fault.”

“I guess not.”

Aizawa narrows his eyes.

“Look, Kaminari, he did what he thought was right at that moment. It saved your life, and that’s what is most important. You’ll both survive.”

Kaminari nods, but he already feels kind of numb. Despite that, he can feel the tears starting to fall down his cheeks onto the pillowcase below his head.

[queenvidal]

I'm Sorry

Chapter 1:

Chapter Summary: The last thing Shepard wanted was to have her ex-boyfriend aboard, but little did she knew how much she'd regret what she's said.

Wordcount: 2855

Chapter Index: Chapter 1 / Chapter 2/ Chapter 3 / Chapter 4 - COMING SOON!

Masterlist

With quick steps, Shepard strides toward the cockpit. Joker’s announcement about the jump through the mass relay sparked her excitement, she wouldn’t miss this for anything. She passes Pressly with a big smile on her lips.

Suddenly she stops dead in her tracks and her smile vanishes. A tall figure is standing behind the pilot seat.

Suppressing a groan, Shepard rolls her eyes and steps into position beside Joker, completely ignoring the turian standing nearby.  Nihlus glances at her for a moment before returning his attention back on the screens in front of the pilot.

“Hey, Shep,” Joker greets with a grin, knowing she wouldn’t miss the jump. But his grin also is short lived and soon disappears. The turian's looming presence unsettles him. Joker hates being watched and the turian breathing down his neck is making him nervous.  “Coming for the show?” he asks, his voice a little strained.

Shepard chuckles. “Always.”

Joker adjusts his cap and announces, “Alright, fasten your seatbelts, ladies and gentlemen. We’re going through.” His fingers fly over the console as the Normandy accelerates toward the mass relay. The sheer scale of the relays never fails to impress Shepard, who watches intently as Joker counts down. The cockpit bathes in brilliant blue light as the Normandy launches into the relay’s energy field.

Suddenly the blue sigts into a stunning sea of millions of stars flashes before them, painting the cockpit in a tranquil glow. Shepard’s lips twitch into a small smile as awe briefly replaces her earlier irritation. The sight is simply beautiful.

Moments later, the Normandy slows down, the stars of their destination stretching out before them. Joker’s hands fly over the controls as he runs post-jump diagnostics. “Thrusters check, navigation check. Internal emissions sink engaged. All systems online. Drift just under 1500k.”

Nihlus nods approvingly. “1500 is good, your captain will be pleased.” He turns around to take his leave, glancing at Shepard for one final time before exiting the cockpit. 

Joker quickly looks over his shoulder, waiting until the turian is out of earshot. “I hate this guy.” Shepard smirks, holding back laughter at Joker’s visible frustration. Kaidan, who is sitting at the co-pilot console, is shaking his head. “Joker, come one. He just gave you a compliment.”

“Compliment my ass.” The pilot girths through his teeth, “I just jumped us halfway across the whole galaxy and hit a target the size of a pinhead. That’s not good, that's incredible.” While grumbling some curses, Joker's focus returns to his displays. “Besides Spectres are trouble. I don't like having him around.” Neither do I, Shepard thinks to herself. Nihlus belongs on the Citadel, not Andersons ship. Kaidan argues, “The council helped fund this project. They have a right to send someone to keep an eye on their investment. You’ll just have to deal with it.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Joker sighs as he enters in new codes. “That's the official story. But only an idiot believes the official story, right, Shep?”

The Commander finally relaxes her posture, letting out a deep sigh. "Honestly? The Council could have sent anyone to supervise the operation, yet they not only sent a Spectre, but him out of all people. They are not truly concerned about the Normandy. The sooner he’s off my ship the better.”

Joker looks at her with a shit-eating grin, “Well, technically it’s Captain Anderson's ship.”

“And technically-” Shepard whispers as she pushes Joker's cap down, right into his face. “You know what I meant.”

“Hey, that's mean!” He complains. He takes his cap off to readjust it properly. “Since when are you sensitive? Pissed you two can't share your bunks anymore?”

Shepard’s glare could set fire to steel. “Don’t test my tamper, Mr. Moreau.” As much as she loves Joker, sometimes he doesn’t know when he’s going too far.

Irritated by Shepards sudden bad mood, Kaidan turns his chair to look at the Commander. “Okay, I feel like I’m missing something. What’s going on?” Joker just huffs a laugh. “Yeah sure, Aleko. As if you don’t know about it.”

“About what?” He asks, raising his brows in question.

Joker stays quiet, leaving Shepard to decide whether she wants to tell Kaidan or not. After a moment of consideration, Shepard explains what’s been going on. “You’ll probably learn it from the others anyway, so I might as well tell you. Kryik and I were involved… romantically.”

Kaidan’s jaw drops to the ground. “What?”

“Yep.” She sighs. “Have been just until a few months ago actually.”

“Well, given your mood, I guess it didn’t end well?” Kaiden asks carefully.

“That’s one way to put it.” Shepard crosses her arms in front of her chest. “We’ve been dating for some time and then things moved quite quickly. Everything was peachy until, from one day to another, he changed. Suddenly he treated me like a stranger and when I confronted him about it, he told me that it was all a big mistake, that turians and humans shouldn’t be together and that he regrets it.”

Kaidan looks at her with wide blown eyes, stunned into silence.

Shepard casts him a sad smile. “That’s exactly the look I had, when he told me all of this.” A ping on her omni tool announces a new message. “For fuck sake.”

“Speaking of the devil, huh?” Joker asks.

“Yup.” Shepard deletes Nihlus message without even bothering to read it. “It’s bad enough to see him strolling through the ship the whole day, can’t he just have the decency to not annoy me even further?”

Suddenly Anderson's voice sounds over the speakers. “Commander Shapard, I need to speak to you in my cabin.”

“Uh!” Joker smiles brightly at her. “Someone’s in trouble.”

Shepard just rolls her eyes, tempted to mess with his cap again. “Bite me, Jeff.”

Quickly the Commander makes her way to the elevator. Once inside, she hits the button for the mess hall a bit harder than necessary. She lets out an irritated sigh before rubbing her eyes. Whatever Nihlus is actually here for, she’s just hoping it will be done as soon as possible. 

Eventually the elevator doors open again, releasing her. Shepard goes straight for the Captain's cabin. She knocks on the door before it wooshes open. “How can I be of service?” She asks, while entering.

Captain Anderson is sitting at his desk. He turns around to face her. “Lynette.” is all he says in greeting. He signs for Shepard to sit on the seat across from him. “I have to talk to you.”

“Of course.” She says as she’s taking a seat, crossing her legs.

The captain sighs deeply. He is visibly uncomfortable. “Lynette, I’ll be blunt—this conversation isn’t easy for me, and I doubt it will be for you either.”

Shepard tilts her head slightly, her brow furrowing.

Anderson takes a deep breath. “You’re familiar with Alliance regulations about fraternization aboard a ship, I assume?”

Shepard groans, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Oh, Anderson, please don’t.”

“I have to,” Anderson says, his tone almost contrite. “Look, I’m not here to pry into your personal life. But with Nihlus aboard, I need your assurance that… whatever happened between you two won’t interfere with missions or ship operations.”

“Of course not, Anderson.” Shepard affirms. She might hate Nihlus guts but she won’t act on her ill feelings, she’s too professional for anything else. “I promise.”

Anderson nods slightly in approval. “Good to hear.”

“Allow me a question, sir?” Shepard crosses her arms casually. “What’s the actual reason for a Spectre to be here?”

Anderson falls back into his chair. “That’s classified.”

“Oh?” Lynette’s eyebrows raise, a small smirk tugging at her lips. “So there is another reason?”

The Captain narrows his eyes for a moment as he realizes his slip. “That’s something we will discuss tomorrow, Shepard. That’s all I can tell you at the moment.”

“Very well.” She says. “Is there anything else you wanted to talk about?”

Anderson hesitates again, his voice softening. “Actually, yes. It might not be my place to ask, but… have you and Nihlus ever talked about what happened? Afterward, I mean.”

“Nope.” Shepard shakes her head.“ After he blew on me, I packed my things and left. Haven't seen or heard from him ever since and as far as I'm concerned, I'd like to keep it that way.”

Certainly she knows the space on the ship is limited and therefore the chance of running into him is pretty high but that doesn't mean she can't  at least try to avoid him.

Anderson just nods silently. “Just do me the favor and keep it low, okay? This is not meant to anger you.”

“Yeah, sure.” She whispers to herself when she stands up. “Sir.��� She salutes casually at her Captain before leaving his cabin again.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

A new cycle has started on the Normandy. Breakfast has started to be giving out in the mess, which is slowly starting to get crowded. Soldiers shuffle through the line, grabbing trays of rations, some exchanging groggy greetings while others simply nurse their coffee in silence.

Kaidan sits at a corner table, chatting with Doctor Chakwas. Anticipating the morning rush, he’s already picked up an extra tray for their Commander, placing it at the empty seat beside him. He hopes the small gesture will help lift her mood, which has been notably sour since Nihlus arrived.

The tables conversation drifts between topics, focusing on Kaidan’s latest episode of headaches, when Shepard finally appears. “Morning, Commander!” Kaidan calls, spotting Shepard as she strides into the mess.

Mid-yawn, Shepard perks up slightly at the sound of his voice. Her eyes dart to the tray waiting for her, and she gives him a tired but genuine smile. “Kaidan, you’re too good to me,” she says with a tired smile, sliding into the seat.

“I live to serve,” he replies, the corners of his mouth quirking into a small grin.

“Good morning, Commander.” Doctor Chakwas her kindly.  “Slept well?”

“Well enough,” Shepard replies, though she’s already diving into her breakfast.

The conversation between Kaidan and Chakwas resumes with Shepard not contributing much, her focus is entirely on her meal. The calm is short-lived though, as a familiar voice breaks through the low hum of the mess. 

“Lynette, do you have a minute?”

Shepard freezes mid-bite, suppressing a groan. It’s far too early to deal with him. Without looking up, she responds in a clipped tone, “Good morning, Spectre. The correct form of address is Commander Shepard, and no, I don’t.”

In an instant the air is becoming tense. The surrounding tables go quiet, soldiers suddenly finding reasons to focus on their food or shuffle away. Kaidan shifts uncomfortably in his seat and Chakwas raises an eyebrow but says nothing. Both share a quick uncomfortable glance. Nihlus pauses, clearly weighing his options. Finally, the turian straightens. “Commander,” he says simply, before turning on his heel and walking away toward the elevator.

Once he’s gone, Chakwas sighs as she looks at Shepard. Her voice carries a hint of disapproval. “Was that really necessary?”

“No,” Shepard admits, spearing a piece of food. “But a fork to his eyes might be.”

“Shepard!” Chakwas scolds, her eyes wide blown. “You’re an adult woman, for heaven’s sake.”

“I’m kidding, Karin." Lynette replies, raising her hands in mock surrender. “Probably.”

Before Chakwas can retort, Joker’s voice crackles over the speakers. “Commander Shepard, you’re needed in the comm room.”

Shepard exhales heavily, dropping her fork onto the tray with a clatter. “Of course I am.”

Quickly she rises to her feet. While gesturing to the tray, she’s giving Kidan a nod. “Thanks for grabbing this, Alenko.”

“Anytime,” he smiles, watching her retreat toward the elevator.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

It was late in the morning, almost midday, when the Commander returned from the meeting she had with Anderson and Nihlus. Seeing Joker was the first thing she did. As annoying as the Pilot can be at times, he is still one of Shepards closest friends. He was the first and only one she broke the news to. 

“Spectre, I can't believe it.” She says while looking at the stars, swaying gently from side to side in the chair, her tone softening. “I really can’t believe it.”

It’s an honor, that’s for sure. Becoming the first human Spectre is nothing Lynette could have ever imagined would happen in her career. She’ll definitely have to give her mother a call later.

“Yeah, about time, huh?” Joker asks, his voice full of sarcasm. “About time the Council added humans to their puppet show. You know, gotta make sure every species gets tangled in their strings” The Commander frowns at him. “Sorry, Shep. I really don’t mean to shit on your accomplishments. It's just…”

“You’re not fond of the council. I know.” She smiles lightly.

“One way to put it. My point is I don’t like you being dragged into their political bullshit. I mean, see what they did. They could have sent about any Spectre to test you, yet they’ve sent King Asshole.”

“Yeah, I know.” The woman agrees. “Let’s put her under a real stress test. Why don’t we force her and her racist ex into a small tin can of a ship for a week?”

That elicits a laugh from the Pilot. "Exactly. Politicians, man. Bunch of jerks in fancy robes.”

Lynette snickers in return, shaking her head. She’s not too fond of politicians either. After stretching her arms, she leans back into the co-pilot seat more comfortably, hr eyes fixated on the stars outside the window. The tension in her shoulders begins to ease, but the sound of approaching footsteps in the corridor snaps her out of it.

“Commander Shepard, I need to talk to you.” Nihlus comes to stand right at the entrance of the cockpit.

Shepard glances at him quickly, before replying. “I'm busy.”

But Nihlus is not having her defiance right now. “That is not a request.”

Joker looks at the both of them. Sensing trouble, he quickly decides to remove himself from this situation. Carefully he stands up from his beloved seat.  “Know what, I was just about to grab some coffee in the mess. My cockpit is all yours.”

Lynette glares at him for abandoning her but Joker just gives her a knowing, apologetic smile before disappearing down the corridor.

Once Joker is out of earshot, Lynette stands up as well. “Alright, what do you want?”

Nihlus stands tall, his hands clasped behind his back, the picture of turian discipline but the subtle flare of his mandibles betrays him. “Shepard, believe it or not, this situation is just as unpleasant for me as it is for you.”

“Oh, ‘s that so?” Her voice is full of sarcasm as she's leaning against her seat.

Nihlus marbles flare again. His eyes leave her for a second, before he calmly states, “This is temporary. Just until the mission is complete. Once it’s done, I’ll file my report, inform the Council and take my leave.

Deciding to reduce the hostility, Shepard reflexes her arms again. “Well, sounds good.”

After a long and silent moment, the turian straightens up. “Shepard, despite what happened between us, I need you to stay focused once we’re planetside.” 

Lynette can’t help but to narrow her eyes at him. “What?”

“Your ill manners towards me on board the ship are one thing but we can’t have your feelings interfere with the mission.” Nihlus’ voices lacks any emotion,“ We have to-”

“Stop.” Shepard cuts him off, visibly getting angry. “Are you really doubting me and my capability to keep my emotions in check?” 

“I am just giving you well ment advice, Commander.” Nihlus states dryly. “This mission and the opportunity for you is way too important to be risk by emotional breakdowns.”

That’s it. Now it’s getting insulting. “Don't you fucking dare to tell me how I should feel and act.” Shepard hisses through gritted teeth. “You're not in the position!”

Nihlus’s voice drops, cold and clipped. “You think this is easy for me? Do you have any idea what it’s like to be caught between your feelings and your duty?”

She takes a step closer, her voice icy cold, “Don’t you dare play the victim, Kryik.”

Nihlus just shakes his head lightly, “Lynette, look-”

“Don't you Lynette me!” Shepherd's voice rises in volume, gaining attention from nearby standing officers. 

“Spirits, woman.” Nihlus exhales, visibly frustrated. “I know I’ve hurt you,” he says, his tone gentler now, “I know I’ve hurt you, I know you’re still angry and by the stars, you have every right to. I am sorry-”

The speakers on the bridge light up. Captain Anderson orders the ship to prepare for entering the planet's orbit and for the ground team to gear up.

Following the command, Shepard pushes past the turian to get away. Her voice is dripping with venom, when she glares at him one final time,  “For all I care, Nihlus, you can just drop fucking dead.”

Chapter Index: Chapter 1 / Chapter 2/ Chapter 3 / Chapter 4 - COMING SOON

[awriterlivinginaconstantdream]

IV A New World

Chapter 1: Lost Bird

The heat from the sun baked the dirt into a hard layer, the breeze lifted small clouds of sand into the air. The flames from the smouldering engines of the plane didn’t cool things down either. No matter where you went, it burned you. Blood painted throughout the plane creating its hellish home of pain and misfortune. A faint rustling was heard from inside the remains; it sounded like it came from something small. Maybe a small animal decided to seek shelter, but even an animal wouldn’t stay somewhere like this. An intricate web of wires trapped anything that remained to be devoured by a slow death while claws of metal scraped painfully if it tried to move. The rustling grew louder as something wiggled to get out. A bloodied hand reached out into the flaming air as it tried to grab something to help in its endeavour. Landing on a broken arm rest, the hand slowly pulled a body out of the pile, it looked weak and fragile. It held onto the arm rest as it tried to stand, shaking as it held itself up only to buckle and land to its knees. Looking closer at themselves, there were several cuts and gashes on their hands, their arms, their face. There wasn’t a sliver of skin that wasn’t covered in sticky blood and dirt. They coughed and hacked as they tried to breathe, everything was painful. BOOM! The second engine of the plane fell off and filled whatever clean air was available with thick, dark smoke. It spread through as if a curtain of death fell over the crashed plane, as if it were trying to drop any survivors. The body did its best to crawl its way out of the curtain. The pain and fear were catching up to them as the smoke began to wrap a dark hand over everything, choking it. Its grip tightening the more the body tried to move. The body tried to wrangle away from it, but its grip became deathly as the smoke thickened with every breath they took. The smoke began to fill their lungs as the body inched closer to the exit. Moving closer and closer with every laboured breath. Wires crackled and sparked as the body brushed against them. Hissing in pain, they pushed forward, keeping their survival at the forefront of their mind.

:read more:

A loud gasp was the only sound the body made before looking at the expanse of blue above them. Curious eyes taking in the hellish confinement they just escaped and the sandy wasteland around them, the golden cliffs and dunes around them, a white dot in the sky lighting everything on fire. They rolled on their back trying to relieve the ache in their muscles. After a few minutes, the body sat up as the blood began to dry under the scathing heat of the sun, their once blue hoodie now turned a sort of mauve colour sticking to them, the once white shirt becoming a vibrant red with smudges of sandy muck. Their black jeans leaving red imprints on the ground as their converse shoes smeared a sandy-bloody mess when they moved. Their breathing staggered as mucus and spit left heir mouth in a coughing fit. Pain shot through their bones as they tried to sit up, so they weren’t staring at the sun. It was tiring to move, even if it were to breathe. Their eyes watched as smoke billowed in the air, an inky smudge against the tranquil blue. They tried to peel the crusty jacket off their body, grinding their teeth as they wanted to remove it carefully without causing any irritation to the cuts that were present. However, some of them began to itch and it was unbearable to resist scratching them.

Using sharp metal scrap, the body tried to cut up the hoodie to create makeshift bandages. Shakily creating jagged strips of mauve cloth, they tried to wrap them carefully around the deepest wounds and tighten them. A cry of agony shot through the air like a flare as they screamed as they tightened the bandages one by one. Tears rolled down their cheeks as they continued, smearing dirt further down their face. The sun was retreating as the body finished covering their wounds, slowly pain was replaced by fatigue as their eyes began to close. They slowly fell to the floor again and let themselves fall asleep. 

The flames died a little the next morning, the smoke was steadily rising into the air. The body woke from its slumber using any energy to hold themselves up against the cool metal sheets of the plane. They looked around their surroundings as their eyes could scan the area better. They were stranded. Nothing within their line of sight for miles. Pure emptiness around them. They clambered into the plane to find anything to help them survive the outside. Finding unopened water bottles and first aids kits, the body attempted to try to clean their wounds so they wouldn’t have any issues later on. Once they finished applying fresh bandages on their wounds, they looked for any medicine to help with the ache in their bones. Trying to heal in a plane crash was kind of hard, there were only so many supplies that weren’t ruined by blood or other muck, while on this medicine-hunting adventure did the body truly open its eyes to the horrors it went through a day ago. The piles of bodies littered all around, the limbs that were scattered. The blood painted on the walls like a scream of horror etched into the plane's walls. The stench of rotting bodies filling their senses, for some their skin was burned and charred for others they were missing body parts entirely. It was gruesome. How it happened was also as equally terrifying. It hurt almost remembering it. 

The bodies, in their lifeless forms, had thousands of stories to tell. Even as one story would overshadow the rest, their cultures and beliefs painted in their souls. Their faiths were glittering ornaments worn to worship a ray of hope that will grant their troubled souls peace. Parents encapsulated their young, shielding them from whatever danger was falling upon them. However, the horrors were strong enough to break those shields. 

Among the bodies, three stood out. The bodies wore vests, the kind of vests you’d see soldiers' wear. Tearing their eyes away from the three bodies, the body remembered the past events screaming through their mind, cries for help echoing through the ghostly plane. Fear hung heavily through the air. The ghostly voices of victims praying, the cries of the children as the world they knew as safe was stripped from them. The bloodthirsty eyes of the men chanting their creed as if it were an absolute truth. As if it was as true as two plus two equals four. It was etched on their minds that this view that was thrust on them was the only view. The right view, and all others were the work of some other evil force. They held on to these beliefs as if it were the rope holding them from falling into the deepest cavern. Their vest beeped, providing a menacing tempo for their rhythmic chants. 

Everything happened so quickly, one moment passengers were fussing over when they were going to land and then the next victims were screaming, shouting, shrieking for their lives. Some ducking under their seats, some too terrified to move. The body watched the blood-soaked memories replay in their mind as the sun drew itself closer to the highest point in the sky. Human gunk squelched under their shoes as they stumbled their way through the pile of unfinished stories. They scavenged for other medical supplies from soaked canvas bags, a flicker of a memory flooded their mind, flight attendants attempted to help some of the injured, the angry demands of the “soldiers” roared through through the plane. The body stumbled as waves of horrifying visions remained them that these hellish red walls were never meant to be red at all. Birds can hunt but they can also die. The air hung heavy with grief, gut-wrenching terrors anchored its claws into the body’s memories. It’s talons shredding sanity the more they remembered. Their mouth hung open in a silent scream, their eyes wide and scared as everything that had happened began to sink its talons even further. They buckled and landed on their knees, medicine packs cutting white streaks into their palms. Soon the ice-cold sea of shock left them as a fiery storm of anger and purpose filled their veins, electrifying vengeance sparked through their nerves. The body felt as if it was their duty as the last survivor to carry these restless souls of the innocent to peace. Wherever that maybe and whoever will help them there. The body carried this energy to pull them forward and gather supplies, a satchel to carry their items, torn maps, medicine, pens, their journal, snack bars and water. Anything and everything that would help them make it out of this chaotic mess of broken ideals alive.

After a traumatic evening, the body set out in the morning to find the closest city they could see on the map. The burned edges made it hard to understand some of the names, but nevertheless they had jobs to do; to get home safe and bring the souls wandering the plane the peace they deserve. The body walked further away, the smoky scent stuck to their clothes like a perfume of terror. However, they had the odd feeling that they left something behind. Something important, something worth keeping. Several self-checks later, they seemed sure that they didn’t leave anything behind. They trudged forward, heading off into the horizon with an iron-will in their arsenal.

They did leave something behind, something that would let the match that lit the plane on fire right back to them. A maroon leather book engraved with gold lettering on its cover belonging to a girl named Aras Mir.

[c-h-e-r-r-i-e-s]

While I’m at it.. here’s some Levi garbage. I love him.

Nsfw under the cut

Here’s the ao3 link too

You could feel the ghost of Levi’s hand sliding up the outside of your thigh.

Your eyes open and you squint at the sun.

Snapping back to what’s happening, a foot is flying at you. Annie’s foot is flying at you.

*Duck*

You throw your own punch and Annie moves out of the way. As you fall to the ground you hear a sigh of relief.

Not the first time she’s bested you but she’s the best at hand to hand combat in the class you were helping train.

Your knees hit the ground and your eyes close. The position reminding you of last night.

Your body flat on the ground, you feel Levi’s hands on your hips.

Waking up in the infirmary was not something you were used to. You snapped to your head to your right hearing “she really got you this time.” Levi’s deep voice said as he sat staring at his tea.

“Yep” you grimace.

“You’ll get her next time” he says as the corner of his mouth turns up.

“Yeah, we’re taking turns beating the shit out of eachother. Girls got nothing to prove but she fights like she does.”

“See you later” he says and reaches down for a head pat before exiting the room.

You lay back down. Levi’s been lingering a lot recently. He’s his usual stoic self but he’s just been hanging out. At dinner always sitting at your table, popping in for silent reading time together, and now waiting for you to get up then leaving as soon as you do.

You know he doesn’t get close to many since he’s lost whole teams before but things have felt closer recently between you.

The shift has made you question whether this is more for him. Like it is for you.

Later you’re back in your room and there’s a knock at the door.

“It’s open” you say recognizing his knock.

Levi’s head pokes in. He strolls in, tea in hand and he sits on a chair at your desk.

“How do you think the recruits are doing?”

He sighs and says “this groups good. Erwin will like Reiner but Eren is going to be a pain in the ass. He’s dedicated but a pain.”

You chuckle at the thought of Erwin leading these kids in an attack.

You notice that Levi’s eyes are on you.

“Didn’t get enough last night?” You question.

His eyes dart from yours.

Patting the bed space next to you, you motion for him to come over.

He uncrosses his legs and stands up making his way to you. the mattress sinks down as you sit side by side on the bed.

The only light in the room created by the fire.

You go back to reading and Levi follows suit. Once he’s engrossed in his book your hand moves to his thigh and you hear his head fly back and hit the headboard.

Your hand moves up towards the top of his leg. As you get closer your hand brushes over his hardness.

Levi frozen in place, you continue to test the waters. Your hand moves back down towards his knee.

You turn your head and whisper in his ear “do you want this?” You feel him adjust his knee toward you and he breaths out a yes.

At that you move to straddle Levi. Plucking his book out of his hand and dropping the stack on the floor.

His hands begin to roam your side. You move to kiss his neck. Soft kisses as you linger just under his ear.

His hands hesitate at the back of your shirt, and then he moves them just brushing under your shirt at your sides where the fabric has come untucked from your pants.

Goosebumps prickle your skin where he touched.

His top shirt button is already undone and you begin undoing the rest.

It’s usually like this with Levi. Slow and sensual and quiet. That’s why you can’t get a read on how he feels.

His hands pull your shirt up over your head and bring you back to the moment. Your hands begin pushing his undone shirt off his shoulders. This time though he stops and pushes the hair out of your eyes. His grey gaze obviously zoned out. He’s in his head too.

Noticing this, you let your hands wander his chest and neck. You lean forward and kiss him. You both deepen the kiss. Passionate and hot you can feel the spark happening between you. You start grinding yourself on him. A moan escapes his lips.

Clearly embarrassed by this display of affection his head turns to the left and a blush spreads across his cheeks. You take the chance to continue working on his neck. Lips press to the soft skin under his ear. And then unexpectedly you stand up and remove the rest of your clothes.

Levi stares at you.

“You’re beautiful” he says as he grasps for your thigh. You go to lower yourself on his lap and start to undo his pants. You stop and look to him for approval. With a nod he dips and kisses your forehead.

As you start sliding his pants off he reaches for you to continue the kiss from earlier. He slides his hand under your hair around the back of your neck. Pulling you chest to chest.

Now naked together things feel more desperate. His hands slide up your body and he overpowers you. Flipping you on your back he’s panting in your ear. Your legs slide to his hips. Still kissing he bites your lip making you bleed. Simultaneously he shifts his hips pressing himself on your clit and opening. Already wet from wanting he slides back and forth teasing you.

He sucks the blood off your lips and leaves a trail of it down to your nipple.

His eyes turn to you and his gaze goes hard. He starts to slips his dick in you slowly. Painfully slow.

“Levi p-please.”

“Please what?”

“I need you in me now”

“Now what?”

“Now Please sir!”

Satisfied with your answer this time He plunges into you. Fucking you at a ruthless pace. Your work paid off. Getting him to this point was your part because Levi is shit at initiating. He never has an issue finishing what you start though.

He slows and covers your mouth.

You hear footsteps pass the door. He never lets up fucking you.

Once the footsteps are out of range he removes his hand and kisses you. Sliding his hand under your back he continues to work you up. Thumb moving to your clit. He sticks the pad of his thumb on your lips and you stick out your tongue to wet it for him. With practiced intimacy this happens swiftly. He moves back down to circling your clit. The heat rising in you. Then he leans down and presses his body on you. Hips moving together. Your hands slide up his muscled back and hook onto his shoulders.

He whispers in you ear “you’re so fucking good at this”

It sends you over the edge. Feeling you clench around him you both come.

After finishing Levi pulls a towel from the bed side table. He sweetly cleans you up.

Then unlike yesterday, he lays back down and covers you both up.

Laying face to face he grabs your hand.

His finger tips bouncing from one of your to the next. And you slowly realize … he’s nervous.

“Spit it out” you chuckle.

Levi sighs. His dark hair shifting as he looks up from your hands he’s playing with to your face.

“I can’t deny it anymore, I ..

I have some feelings.

For you.” He clarifies after a moment.

Oh. You think. Stunned but not willing to hesitate for long. Neither of you are ones to hesitate once your minds are made up.

“Same here” you stare into his eyes.

A smile flashes across his lips.

“I do enjoy my time here with you. But with training coming to an end soon I’ve found I don’t want you to leave. I can’t protect you if you’re not around and I’m not willing to have anyone else in charge of that responsibility. They’ll just muck it up anyway.”

Typical you think. Mr. I’ll do it myself.

“So what do you want? How do we fix that?”

“I’ve already asked for you to be put on my team when we are off training duty.”

Shocked at him doing that without even telling you. You sit in silence.

“Say something” he says, voice going deeper.

“I mean I’m happy to move to your squad but I’ll miss my own people. Can you get one more person reassigned? I can go without Petra.”

“Already thought of that too” he states dryly. “I wouldn’t switch you without moving your best friend too. You guys are like sisters and I’m not coming between that.”

You kiss his cheek and throw an arm around his neck. His hand slides around your still naked waist. Moving under the covers to straddle him your lips never leave each other. With this new realization that Levi wants to keep you close you can’t help but feel a new sense of intimacy. The kiss feels different now more needy. Hungry for each other your hands start to roam. Ending up in his hair. His hands sliding from your hips to your thighs. He pulls you closer into him. One hand firmly on the small of your back and the other making it’s way to your already wet center. His fingertips graze your opening. Index finger making slow circles around your entrance.

“I’m gonna fuck you again”

You exhale with a shiver and your grip tightens on his hair.

His fingers start moving in and out of you.

“Fuck. You’re so wet.”

“I can’t help it when you make plans to keep me with you. That’s so fuckin sexy.”

He moans

“I would’ve stolen you sooner had I known that was going to be your reaction.”

He kisses you hard.

Pushing his tongue in your mouth

Then following a trail cleaning up the bloody mess he left on your neck earlier.

This time you line your hips up to take him.

He reaches down to help you as you slide down his length.

Sitting up you throw your head back.

You start fucking him.

His hips moving up to meet you.

Sweat started to bead at your temple.

One drop splashing on Levi’s chest.

Without pulling out he sits up and brings you down to your back between his legs.

Repositioning himself to his knees he brings your legs up around his hips. Holding your legs at your calfs for support he keeps pushing himself into you.

“Holy fuck” you gasped.

“Levi you’re fucking incredible”

One arm hooked under your knee he moved faster. You both started to lose it a little your pace a bit messier now.

One hand started gliding up your stomach until Levi’s thumb and index finger cupped your breast.

He fell on top of you arms going under your back to grip you shoulders.

He fucked until you both came. Kissing your neck as you did.

Panting he let go of you to clean you both up again. This time he went to your bathroom and started drawing a bath for the both of you.

[egopocalypse]

Haunting

Whumptober Day 10: "Can't you see that you're lost without me?"

No matter where Chase goes, the shadow follows.

He's ditched his car and three others in the last day, driving the gas tanks down to their last dregs in his haste to get away. He doesn't have a destination in mind other than away, yet with each mile down the unforgiving highway, the chill down his spine rankles him even more.

He slaps his hand over the back of his neck, like the sting would make the crawling fade away.

"There aren't any more cameras," he mutters under his breath. "I'm safe now. It's fine."

But how can he be so sure? Ever since those freaky scientists guys were murdered, he's had to hop between towns, losing the trail of whatever people or things want to find him. He hasn't heard from Echo since he escaped IRIS. He has no idea what the public knows about him. (Would IRIS send out a manhunt? Do people think he's a criminal?) He has no sense of where to go or what to do but survive.

Why couldn't this have been a misunderstanding? Why didn't they let him go home?

What does Anti want from him?

The ghost of a breath sends a shiver down his spine, and he cranks the heat in the current old beater to the max. It sputters out a smog of hot diesel from the exhaust; his face screws up at the stench.

He's been in this rustbucket truck for too long. Hopefully the more inland he goes, the easier it'll be to find a rural town to swap cars. The sooner he can find a gas station without CCTV, let alone a WATCHR, the better.

Except the beater doesn't get him that far.

Something rattles under the hood, and a plume of smoke sparks and slithers out through the cracks. Chase curses and slams the steering wheel and pulls over three miles before the next exit, then grabs his meager belongings and sprints away as he hears a resounding boom and a rush of heat scorches his back.

It exploded. The truck fucking exploded.

With his heart in his throat, Chase reaches for his back pocket and nearly falls over in relief. The picture is still there. Even after everything, he hasn't lost it. He can't.

"For someone trying to avoid me, you put on quite the show."

Chase lurches and goes for the gun in his waistband, only to jolt when he comes up empty. It must still be in the center console, melting into a mangled mess with the rest of the scorching hot metal in front of them.

His hands flex and curl into fists. He doesn't want to turn around, to face the nightmare ruining his life, but if he doesn't, it would give it all the opportunities to stab him or snap his neck, like it had with the bodies it dropped right before they started this race.

"How are you here?" Chase asks. "How do you keep finding me?"

Anti's eyes light up with an eerie white glow. "Do you think it's hard?" it says. "I've followed you from the first time you called my name, the first time you saw this face. You've only been able to run because I wanted to chase."

Chase's breath sharpens. There truly is no getting away, is there? He's crossed half the country in the past few days, and yet no matter where he goes, Anti or IRIS will always find him.

"Why me?" He hates the pleading strain in his voice, but it never seems to fall away. "Why do you want me?"

Anti grins. "You still know nothing, don't you? Those people wanted to use you, but they didn't put in the effort to teach you."

Flames spark in Chase's chest, and despite the autumnal chill, the heat from the truck fire drips sweat down his back.

"Teach me what? I want some fucking answers."

"What will you pay to get them?"

Chase balks. "Huh?"

"You heard me," Anti says. "There's a price for answers, Chase--a price for every choice you made. What will you pay to earn the answers you want?"

He bites his cheek. His wallet got confiscated the second IRIS got their hands on him. The now-unusable gun had been picked off the corpse of an agent that Anti killed on its rampage through the facility. His phone and whiskey were lost before IRIS nabbed him. He has nothing of any value to give.

Anti's smile cools. Those dark, dead eyes bore into Chase's skull.

"Stubbornness won't save you, Chase. Refuse, and you'll stay on the run, forever looking over your shoulder until the maggots put you down. You're a danger, and if you're no use to them, you won't survive. I won't save you a third time."

Chase chokes. "A third?"

Anti's voice lowers, regaining some of the rasp it once had, before the gaping wound on his neck disappeared without a sign of its existence. "Make your choice."

The picture burns a hole in Chase's pocket. Other than the tattered, filthy clothes streaked with blood, dirt, and sweat, it's the only thing he has left to his name. The only tie he has to the person he once was. The only sign that before IRIS, before Anti, Chase had a life. He had something to return to, to live for.

What use is a memento of the last light of his life when it's flickered out?

He pulls out the polaroid and burns the image into his retinas, searing into his memory the bright, joyful, loving faces of his family. He kisses the image as a final goodbye, then offers it like a lifeline.

"It's all I have."

Anti studies the picture, studies every inch of Chase's face, and studies the hand reaching out to him. He slips the picture away and clamps a hand over Chase's.

"You made the right choice, Chase. Welcome home."

@seaswalllow @asteriuszenith @pixie-in-trebleland

[whump-me]

Ashes: Chapter 25

Chapter 25 of Ashes, a dark and extremely whumpy Cinderella retelling where the handsome prince is a sadistic villain and his former bride is out to get her revenge… before he can choose a new victim at the ball.

Masterpost | Read the complete novel on Patreon

---

Elle wasn’t allowed her own room anymore. At night, she slept chained to the hearth, with a thick manacle locked around one ankle. The chain was short enough that she couldn’t lie on the floor; she had to sit in an awkward, hunched-over position. And the stone floor grew cold at night, after the fire went out.

She could, if she wished, curl up on the stones of the hearth itself. But while the floor lost its warmth too quickly, the area closest to the hearth retained an uncomfortable heat, burning against her skin and making her toss and turn. And she always feared an errant spark would leap from the remnants of the fire and land on her skin or in her hair. Every morning, she woke more tired than when she had gone to sleep.

They took her rags, as well. They made her burn each tattered and stained gown, one by one, and gave her nothing to replace them. She did her chores naked now, her skin burning under the heat of their amused eyes, sliced open by their laughter that rained down like broken glass. They said it was so she wouldn’t be able to leave again—a naked woman walking along the road would quickly draw attention. But Elle suspected the reason was simpler: they enjoyed her humiliation.

Elle scarcely cared whether they saw the curves of her withered breasts or tittered at her naked thigh. She had very little left in the way of modesty. It was the signs of her pain that she hated to have exposed—the visible outline of her ribs, the burn scars from old punishments. Most of all, she hated that they could see each of the scars Alexandre had left her with. Of course, Violaine and Aliette figured this out quickly, and missed no opportunity to point out her scars whenever they found themselves in the same room as her—something they made sure happened often.

They reveled in her humiliation. Mathilda, too, not just her daughters. But at least Mathilda made an attempt to keep up a thin veneer of propriety, pretending every humiliation heaped upon her was simply a means of teaching her obedience. Violaine and Aliette no longer bothered with the pretense. They reveled in the game, and made no secret of their enjoyment.

They took away her mop and bucket, and made her lick the muddy floors clean. They left scraps on their plates, hid while she cleared the table, and emerged to beat her if she stole a single crumb. They made her leave the plates out for days, the uneaten food taunting her. And then, after the vegetables had gone rotten and the meat had spoiled, they made her clean it up by eating every last bite, claiming the spoiled food would attract animals if they tossed it outside. They watched her as she did, and held her mouth shut so she couldn’t vomit any of it up.

More than once, she had choked on her own vomit like this, hot acid clogging her throat and nose and mouth while her stepsisters held her down. There had been moments when she had hoped it would kill her, that she would suffocate on her own vomit and die, that her stepsisters would realize what was happening too late to save her. At least then she could die with the satisfaction of knowing her stepfamily would suffer for allowing her to pass beyond Alexandre’s reach.

After all, what did she have to live for now? She had lost her chance at vengeance. She wouldn’t get another.

She had no minder now. No one to watch the exits, to set spies in her room in case she thought of running off. No one to change her words in midair. Torin had followed through on his promise to run away with his sister, it seemed. She had expected nothing less from him, and nothing more.

Chained to the hearth, she couldn’t attempt to run at night, and someone’s eyes were always on her during the day. But it wouldn’t have mattered. She’d had her chance to run. She had turned it down. Even now, she didn’t regret that. She had nowhere to go. Locked in Mathilda’s chains or on the run with Torin, it was all the same. While Alexandre was alive, she would find no peace.

But she did take full advantage of the new ability to say whatever she wanted. She didn’t try to tell her side of the story again—she had done that, and gotten what she should have expected. Repeating the truth once more, or ten times more, wouldn’t make her stepfamily any more likely to believe her. She did, however, insult the prince at every opportunity. Mathilda and her daughters beat her for it, but they would have beaten her anyway.

Her stepfamily had to wring every bit of pleasure they could out of tormenting her, because it was the only pleasure any of them had these days. The atmosphere in the house was thick and sharp, with all three women alternately sinking into long sulks and finding excuses to snipe at one another. The word from the palace was that the prince had his heart set on the woman in the red dress—the very woman who had cost Aliette her chance. Rumor said he didn’t sleep at night anymore, that he paced the palace hallways muttering the woman’s name. Some said he had sent his soldiers out to the four corners of the kingdom, searching for the woman whose foot would fit the glass slipper she had left behind. Others whispered that the prince himself had left the palace with the slipper and vowed not to return until every woman in the kingdom had tried it on.

Mathilda and Violaine blamed Aliette for the fact that it wasn’t Violaine or Aliette he was desperate for. Aliette blamed the woman in red. All three took their frustrations out on Elle.

Elle sank deeper into despair by the day. Until, one night, she caught herself contorting into an agonizing position on the hearth, trying to puzzle out the mechanics of strangling herself with her chain. With her leg twisted up at an unnatural angle, and the chain barely brushing her neck, she stopped short. A sudden image flashed into her mind, as vivid as life—an image of her own corpse lying dead on the hearth. Her face purple. Her eyes bulging. Her tongue, thick and swollen, protruding from her lips.

Her final humiliation. Alexandre’s final victory.

She would not give him that.

She would not let him win.

She knew better than to think she could hope for another chance at revenge. It would have been foolish to believe otherwise. But it was either believe in that chance, and be a fool, or give in to despair by inches until her vision came true. So she chose foolishness. She stoked the embers of vengeance in her heart until they once more grew into a flame.

The flame was weak, a candle sputtering in the wind. But it was enough to get her through her days with her stepsisters. When thoughts of Alexandre’s demise weren’t enough, she imagined Violaine and Aliette dying in increasingly horrible ways. Strangled on the hearth. Choking on their own vomit while she pinched their noses and lips closed. After a while, she took to picturing them in Alexandre’s dungeons. She imagined herself upending one of the alchemists’ exotic concoctions over their tormented bodies, wearing Alexandre’s cruel smile as she drank in their pain.

She used these imaginings to survive her days. But she tried to remind herself that Alexandre was her true target. She couldn’t let herself get distracted, couldn’t lose herself in daydreams. She had to find her way to Alexandre. And she had to do it before the starvation and poor treatment killed her.

But how?

It was an impossible dream. Pure foolishness.

But she would make the impossible happen, or she would die.

She stopped sleeping, as Alexandre was rumored to have done. She spent her nights pacing back and forth on her short chain, formulating and discarding plans. Her every waking thought, when she was not imagining her stepsisters’ torture, was consumed with Alexandre.

It was on one of these nights that Alexandre’s faint voice slid into her daydreams, as vividly as if he were standing a mere room away. I’m so sorry to disturb you this late at night, he said, his words full of the smooth charm that had once fooled her so well.

“You aren’t disturbing me,” she crooned under her breath. “Not at all. I’ve been waiting for you.”

Then she caught herself. As much as she wanted to lose herself in this newly vivid daydream, she knew the hallucination for what it was. She needed to keep her sanity, or she would never have her revenge. She needed to sleep.

“You’re not real,” she muttered. “You’re not real.” She curled on the hot stones of the hearth like an arthritic dog and closed her eyes.

But Alexandre’s voice persisted. If the three of you wouldn’t mind trying this on for me?… I promise, it will only take a moment.

Then came Aliette’s voice, entirely too whiny to be a hallucination. “So it’s true? You’re searching the entire kingdom to find this mysterious woman in red?”

“You know it’s not Aliette,” Violaine said. “You remember her from the ball. She’s the clumsy one who fell right in front of you.”

“Hush,” Mathilda snapped. “Both you, try on the slipper. Maybe it will fit one of you.”

“But we’re not—” Aliette began.

“Hush,” Mathilda repeated. “If it does fit, then clearly you are the woman Prince Alexandre is seeking, and who could possibly stay otherwise?”

“You’re not real,” Elle repeated under her breath. But why would she imagine all this? If she were going to go to the trouble of hallucinating her stepfamily as well as Alexandre, she would have set the scene in Alexandre’s dungeons.

That meant Alexandre was really here.

The hair rose on the back of her neck. Was it fear she felt? Or eager anticipation? Maybe a bit of both.

“Ouch!” Aliette complained. “My toes!”

“Squeeze your foot in just a little tighter,” Mathilda urged. “It will fit. You just need to make an effort.”

“No! It hurts! Get it off, get it off—” Aliette’s wail cut off with a sigh of relief. Mathilda gave an exasperated groan.

A moment later, Violaine was the one complaining. “This couldn’t possibly fit any woman in the kingdom,” she snapped. “No one has feet this shape!”

“Keep trying,” Mathilda urged.

“No, it’s no use. I’m telling you, this woman in red can’t possibly exist. No one could squeeze their foot into that slipper. Look at the shape of it!”

Then it was Mathilda’s voice grunting and groaning, Mathilda muffling her cries until finally Violaine urged her, “Stop, Mother, please—you’ll break a toe!” Then came more grunts of effort as Mathilda, Violaine, and Aliette worked together to tug the slipper off Mathilda’s foot.

Elle held her breath. Hoping Alexandre would leave. Hoping he wouldn’t.

“Thank you for taking the time to indulge me,” said Alexandre. Then he paused. “While I’m here… I may as well pay Elle a visit. It’s been a while, hasn’t it?”

“Of course,” Mathilda said immediately, clearly struggling to fawn through her annoyance. “Take all the time you like.”

Alexandre walked in. When he saw the naked and chained Elle, his eyes lit with hunger. “Well,” he said, “this is certainly a pleasant surprise.”

Elle held his gaze and didn’t look away.

“Don’t get up,” he urged. “Stay there, curled on the hearth. Just like that.” She tensed as he worked to light a fire. “I need a light to see you by,” he said. “This rare sight can’t be properly appreciated in the darkness.”

The fire flared to life. Heat, uncomfortably close, sank under her skin. She edged away from the flames, until Alexandre held her in place with one hand. His fingers traveled down the curve of her breast before digging painfully into her ribcage.

“You will stay where you are,” he said, “or I’ll make sure you no longer have feet run with.” He ran his hand down her bare thigh, past her knee, along her calf… and paused at her ankle. “Speaking of feet… yours certainly have a unique shape, don’t they?”

“A necessary punishment,” Mathilda assured him. “She had to be taught a lesson.”

Alexandre didn’t so much as look at Mathilda. He pulled out the slipper and gazed at it instead. The firelight reflected off the glass in hypnotic patterns.

“Impossible,” he murmured. “But since I’m already here… why not try?”

“Her?” Aliette protested. “Her disgusting feet will only make your slipper filthy.”

“She doesn’t own a red dress,” Violaine said. “All she had were rags. Now she doesn’t even have those.”

Elle kicked out, trying to break Alexandre’s grip. But he held her ankle firmly in place as, with his other hand, he slid the slipper onto her foot.

It fit perfectly.

---

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[underatedwords]

notes from fp2 - bahrain

most representative practise session of the weekend but still very windy, and cold

immediately 16 drivers out on the soft tyres to make the most of the session & going straight for quick laps

valtteri under investigation for pit exit infringement - he crossed the white line when the light was still red

turn 15 causing some trouble, notably for kevin and charles, pushing too hard on the exit causing them to go off and over the kerb

george perhaps running too low - a spark from the car's plank looked to have caught fire, resulting in a change to his front suspension

alonso looking like the rear of his car was quite loose especially through t4

charles was very unhappy with some drivers for not moving - 'they are all fucking sleeping tonight'

lando struggled this session - his flying lap was nearly two seconds slower than oscar's and his long run pace was a few tenths off as well

redbull had the best race pace - mv managed to stay consistently in the mid 1.36s

mercedes are looking quite decent, both in long run and single lap pace - but deg looking higher than rbr

it still seems like haas' long run pace is their main weakness - staying mostly in the 1.38s throughout

oscar looking impressive today - his long run pace in particular was good, especially considering his struggles with it during testing and the deg he experienced last year

mclaren were the only team to run a tyre other than the softs - going onto the mediums for the last 5minutes or so

mv was unhappy w his practise start

most laps - yuki w/ 29

least laps - alonso w/ 22