#and your username? Excellent

[cy-writer]

@kyokittymeow

Alright!

Context, I had intended this to be multiple chapters - or to go on longer. Not exactly much shipping but hey!

Hope you get a kick out of it nonetheless, as they are meant to be the end goal.

Copying and pasting from my phone, so the fic is under the cut!

The island representative was always an odd on to Tom Nook. Their appearance had wildly changed throughout their time on the small island of Dragon Bay, their behavior almost aggressive yet highly supportive of any and all residents that lived within their little island.

Their choices... Well, Tom found them to be questionable yet he was certain that even the most bizarre request came with good intentions. That's what he'd like to believe, but this time it just left a sinking feeling of dread as he looked over the document left for him on his desk. The document itself was nothing new, a simple request of residency with a short letter of recommendation from the island representative. Usually, these were easy to sort out and arrange a new home for their latest villager. This time, the name that was written on the paper stared at him, almost mocking his very being.

A Residency Request for Redd.

Tom quickly glanced at the signatures, in a fleeing hope that this was merely a joke done in poor taste. Yet he recognized each one perfectly well. The messy handwriting of the island representative, and the stylized writing of the kitsune. From what he could see, everything was in order and the document looked professional. The letter of recommendation was practically glowing, listing many points as to why the island representative thought he would be a good fit for Dragon Bay.

"I should talk to them first thing tomorrow..." His gaze drifted to the clock hanging on the wall. Four AM.

Surely, they must have been deceived by the kitsune. There is no way anyone who knew of Redd would ever invite him near their wallets, let alone their home. Tom knew all too well what happened if you let him too close.

But it was late, and he hadn't slept yet. Thankfully Isabelle was caring for the twins while he pulled another late night...

"Yes, yes. It'll be the first thing I do."

With that, he took another swig of his coffee and packed up his things for tonight. Tomorrow morning, he would have to sort this out. He would convince the island representative to reconsider.

He took one last look over the request, unable to stop his worrying. It was bad enough that the representative submitted the request, but the most concerning part was Redd even signing the forms. Had he simply been offered and took the opportunity to sell more fraud works? Or even worse, he was the one to suggest it. What could that tricky kitsune even want on their peaceful island? Those thoughts continued to nag him as he locked up the Residence Service building for the night.

From here, he could easily see the Nook's Cranny right across the path. It was a simple building, but one he was most proud of. It was a modest shop downstairs, with a small sales floor for his dear nephews Timmy and Tommy to take charge of. Upstairs held extra stock and a little clubhouse for the twins, while the back of the shop contained their small home.

As usual, Tim took the back entrance to their home and was greeted to the sight of Isabelle fast asleep on their sofa. A book in her paws with Timmy and Tommy on either side of her, quietly snoring. A warm smile spread across Tom's face as affection swelled in his chest. He may have been stressed, but the sight of his dear twins never failed to comfort him.

He walked over, easily picking them up - one tiny tanuki in each arm. He carefully brought the two to their room, gently tucking them in before making his way back to Isabelle.

{Insert later: Nook wakes up Isabelle and tells her about his plan. He then heads to bed. Stress dreams}

When morning came around, Tom found himself slowly waking up as he felt the warm sunlight across his body. There was soft chatter of other residents outside, a pleasant rustling of tree leaves and -

His tired eyes shot open, his body immediately sitting up. There was no way the island should be this lively early in the morning, or the sun's light to hit his bed at this hour, unless...

11 AM. He overslept. When was the last time he ever woke up so late? He couldn't recall, aside from the days of his reckless youth. Another question entered his mind as well. Why did the twins let him sleep for so long? Yes, Isabelle was kind enough to help the two get ready for their jobs, but surely they would have woken him!

He got dressed and ready as quickly as he could, not wanting to waste another moment. There was so much to do, too much to worry over. He needed to find a way to convince the island representative. He needed to shred that cursed document. Hell, he needed to keep Redd away from his island.

As much as he wanted to say hello to Timmy and Tommy first, he knew he had to hold off on that for the moment. He could apologize later on today, when he was finished with all of this. He tried to hold on to his determination, not wanting his worries to drown him once more.

Just as Tom was about to reach the door of Residence Services, his tired eyes spot the island representative. His paw slipped from the doorknob and immediately he made his way towards them instead. A part of him felt embarrassed to try and meet them so informally, however, this was an emergency after all.

His legs could only carry him so quickly, so he was left to a brisk walk as he watched the human in front of him rush along the terracotta paths. At least they were easy to spot, with their wild outfit and a black kitsune mask covering their face. Or at least, they should have been easy to keep track of.

As Tom followed them up the stairs along the north path, they simply ran through the trees and vanished off the trail. Perhaps they were going to thin out the cluttered trees today? Tom could briefly recall Isabelle mentioning that...

However, he could immediately see the results of the island representative's last project. A staircase down to the tiny beach that was tucked away in this northern section of the island. From here, Tom could easily see that wreck of a boat. The cliffs here could almost hide it, but the dark smoke floating up into the air was a dead giveaway of the kitsune's presence.

Normally, Tom liked to think of himself as a reasonable man. One to see both sides of an argument, to give a poor soul a chance. Had it been anyone else, anyone at all, perhaps Tom would have discussed this all over a call. However, Redd wasn't just anyone.

Before he even realized it, Tom found his way walking towards the boat. Up the ramp, past the curtain, and making his way down the dimly lit stairs. There was much to take in. The whirring sounds of a strained engine, the faint smell of smoke from the boat itself, and the suffocating sensation of the kitsune's magic. Though Tom was sensitive to such things, it still shocked him how residents couldn't feel the same type of aura radiating off of Redd. Then again, many seemed to turn a blind eye to his own presence as a tanuki.

"Here to sign the paperwork, Nook?"

He wasn't even fully off the stairs and he could already feel his annoyance growing. As he rounded the corner, there he could see Redd.

The kitsune had a smug look across his face - not an unusual sight for him. His blue apron looked rather clean, unlike the usual wrinkled or paint stained one the Tom could recall. Redd's tail swayed happily, the four spilt tail tips twitching sperate from each other.

"What are you doing here, Redd?" That was a safe question to open with. Something to stop himself from throwing accusations, or flooding the fox with a neverending stream of questions.

"Aw, come on. Isn't that obvious?" Redd gave such a wide grin, wasting no time to get in Tom's personal space. "I've been to this island a few times now, and I've gotta say... I like what I see."

The dim lights seemed to a reoccurring trend below deck. The lights had a faint tint, which made it that much harder to get a good look at the many pieces of "art" the kitsune had to sell. All fakes.

"You seem to be doing just fine scamming my residences from your boat. Why do you want a house here?"

"Did you even look over the plans my cousin gave you?" A laugh, followed by Redd hooking an arm around Tom's shoulder as he pressed against his side. "I want a store, selling my paintings to the kind folk of Dragon Bay."

"There is no way that I'm going to allow you to bring the black market to my peaceful island."

"Ouch, such a harsh accusation! I'm hurt, Nook." He pulled a paw to his chest, though his smile remained unwaivering.

"This isn't a game, Redd." Tom frowned, his eyes narrowed as he shoved the kitsune away from him. "I want you off my island, and I want you to stay as far away from my residences as you possibly can."

Redd let go of him, a more serious look now on his face as if he actually thought over Tom's words. It only annoyed Tom further, as this look was usually meant the kitsune was hiding something.

"You just don't get it." Redd shook his head, his grin faded from his face. "I'm simply playing for keeps."

What did that even mean?

"Get off my island, Redd."

"Make me."

The dim lights of the poorly made boat continued to flicker, allowing the brief glimpses of darkness to elongate their shadows against the wall. A little glimpse of what they really were.

For a moment, the only sound between them came from the annoying humming of the lights - or the gently sounds of the waves against the ship. He needed to take a deep breath and not fall into another fight.

As he continued to stay silent, Redd's expression faded from a defiant glare to something Tom couldn't quite place. He can't recall the last time he's seen such a face on the kitsune...

(And that's all I have!)

[smaeemo]

me to all my favorite mutuals ❤️

@violent138 @exampleofaromantic @stella517 @idledreams4 @dead-angel-witch-fae @zer0-adjacent @zer0expektation

[almostfoxglove]

I just began reading Cover Me Up and girl I’m obsessed! I can’t believe how you can pack so much description and understanding into chapters that are so relatively short. Great writing :)

scrEECH! hello omg you absolute cutie pie!! this is so kind of you to say / send holy cow. my heart's so full rn - I'm so glad you're enjoying cover me up so far!! that story's real close to my heart :,)

thank you so much for sending this it made my morning. I really hope you like the rest of their story <3 I'd love to know what you think at the end (or at any point tbh) :,) tysm for reading & being so sweet!! ah!!

[divorce-enjoyer]

I need to compliment you on having my favorite username I've seen on this website.

divorced ships >>>

yes yes exactly its about the DRAMA its about the HISTORY its about the PETTINESS. its about how you cant stop knowing someone even after youve separated yourself from them. youre just walking around knowing the most intimate things about someone youre on bad terms with but love anyway. like what do you do with that. also watching my blorbos fight is funny

[karlkapri]

hi bestie 🤣 this made me laugh so hard

SAME FACE

[shuicheese]

Have you heard? The Amazing Digital Circus Season 1 is in production and is gonna drop episodes later this year and into next year!

WAIT. WAIT I HAVEN;T HEARD BUT HOLY SH ITTTT I;M EXCITED ABOUT THAT!! I CAN;T WAIT TO SEE MORE OF JAX AND ZOOBLE HEHEHUHU-

may we get kaufmo crumbs i'm still in denial <3

[doctor-bus]

Tagged by @goonssquadd to spell my URL with songs. I'm still at work so I'm only going to use songs I have on my phone 📞

D - Daughter of God by @phemiec

O - One by La Dispute

C - Cemetery Drive by My Chemical Romance

T - The New National Anthem by Pierce the Veil

O - ONE MORE TIME/AERODYNAMIC by Daft Punk (Alive 2007)

R - Remember Me by The Birthday Massacre (Imagica)

B - Breaking the Habit by Linkin Park

U - Undead Ahead 2: Tale of the Midnight Ride by Motionless in White

S - Something About Us by Daft Punk

I am tagging @omaaoc @pollypeaches @randomhatthief @d4zed-dre4mer @dontdropthe27 and anyone else who wants to do it

[singsweetmelodies]

Omg I enjoyed your dragon rider fic so so much!!! Definitely a fav.

One question. Did Pierre end up joining Lewis House?

AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! thank you so much for this ask 😍😍😍 that fic is my favourite child, just a little bit (🤭🥰) so it means the world that you enjoyed it <333

and as for your question! well 😏 i'm actually not going to answer it, but that's only because i do have a sequel in the back of my mind. i deliberately left the "will pierre join lewis' house?" question very open-ended in the main fic, to give me some nice space to explore it later... 👀 i don't know WHEN later is, unfortunately, because goodness knows there's a lot going on at the moment, lmao. but someday? i hope to give you the answer to that question in full fic form 😍😘 thanks again for asking!! ❤️🐲

[samderella]

Howdy, you are no longer the only person to have written SKutgug smut on Ao3.

Goodday, and goodbye!

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

[ironicxblue]

❛  did you hear that?  ❜

Izumi looked up from his magazine at the voice.

It was late in the dorms, and he and Oogami appeared to be the only people left in the common area. And he hadn't heard anything.

He silently wondered if the guy did have the hearing of a dog for a moment before he shook his head.

"No. What did you think you heard?"

It was pretty late. He hoped it wasn't anything too creepy or weird.

[ynbabe]

Come Through ୨୧ George Russell x Rockstar! Reader

Is rockstar the right word? idk I just know bro is crazy bts, the white boy with Excel persona is fooling NO ONE Georgie boy. Also, Reader has vibes of the Weekend song, hence the fic name.

Lando thinks it's all a joke. He hadn't been crying, screaming and manifesting for the past three years only for his celebrity crush to be dating someone else, another driver that too.

"WHO-" He yells as he storms into Max's room, where most of the drivers had collected, they hadn't decided but they all just gravitated towards the blonde with sweet blue eyes who listened to the vent and gave the best hugs, "AFTER ALL WE WENT THROUGH- WHO IS DATING Y/N L/N?"

All eyes were on him, Max lying on his bed, Charles, Carlos and Daniel with him. Lance, Esteban and Pierre were on the sofa, playing FIFA on Max's PS5, George and Alex were sharing the smaller two-seater, Zhou and Yuki were passing a tennis ball to each other and Logan and Oscar were sleeping, cuddling close on the floor surrounded by pillows, but were now woken up by Landos yelling.

"Lando stop screaming," Charles yelled back.

"No," he simply replied and made his way to the bed where he jumped on top of Carlos and Daniel, the older of whom groaned and grumbled something about his back, but Lando didn't care, he pushed his phone in Max's face, blurring his face in Carlos's neck.

xoxof1

xoxof1 Y/n l/n an infamous British rockstar most famous for her multiple dating scandals and most recently an arrest is rumoured to date a F1 driver.

username MOTHER WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE 😭😭😭

username girl... knowing her it's like Lewis or someone

username fr like hasn't she 'dated' a dozen older guys not to mention her record with women username girl why are you hating like a man, she's iconic and we all know it

username just lost my wife to a vroom-vroom man no one talk to me

Max began laughing, looking up from the post to the distraught Lando currently getting his hair played with by Carlos.

"Mate, I don't think you're her type," he threw the phone back to the whining boy.

"Yeah? And how would you know? I look exactly like Edward!" He pointed to the bassist of the band you were a part of.

"Kelly loves her music..." he muttered, looking away much to the younger man's amusement.

"HAH!" He shrieked, "SHE'S NOT YOUR GIRLFRIEND ANYMORE!!" He laughed to which Carlos pushed his head down, eliciting an 'oomph'.

"I've been told many times," Max muttered to himself and turned to Lando to hear the rest of his rant, though loud and fast, the boy was the best source of entertainment they had.

"Max, look at her band, she's so coooool," he groaned, passing the phone to him again.

Cupidd

Cupidd THANK YOU LA!! We'll be back with 'young, numb and brunette' after this short break!!

y/nl/n My old man said I had to be in Shangai this weekend 🫡 but trust- I will be back to piss y'all off with Eddie asap

edwrdnotcllen MY WIFE HAS LEFT ME FOR A TWINK HELP y/nl/n shut up Eddie your the twinkiest twink I know username I love that they have had multiple partners in the past yet still always call each other husband and wife username I pity her boyfriend 😭 imagine having to compete with a man who looks like Edward

username SHES GOING TO A RACE????

username nooooo pls my parents

username girl they have never dated, both y/n and Edward have had multiple partners and relationships with men and women in the past. Leave them alone, they're adults username FOUND Y/N'S BFS ALT GUYS!!!

"She's coming to China?" Max asked no one in particular but Lando took it as an invitation to freak out.

"Bro please, please, please let me win this one, I'll owe you forever, bro please," Lando tried his puppy eyes on Max but Max jumped out of bed calling his girlfriend, walking out the room trying his best to convince the older woman to not attend the race.

"I have so much work to do," Lando gasped and followed Max out the room.

The race was one to remember, with Max winning but George a close second and Lando barely a tenth away on the third.

He hadn't been able to find the girl anywhere but at least he got points for the team. He went to the McLaren team party and forgot about the other celebration taking place.

xoxof1

xoxof1 The unexpected couple have been revealed in a series of leaked pictures of the private f1 party after the driver George Russell had a podium finish for his Shangai race.

username Mr.Russell I was unaware of your rizz, forgive me sir.

username WHITE MAN DOES IT IN ONE DAY 😭😭😭

landonorris When i catch you george when I catch you

username LANDO??? username he's one of ussssss username bbg you get me 😮‍💨 in ways no man ever has

George woke up with the worst headache he ever had in his life, he was sure he'd never get over this hangover but then he saw y/n next to him, hair tussled wearing the white shirt he was wearing last night.

"Y/n, darling, wake up," he pressed a kiss on her shoulder.

"mmhm," the woman groaned, turning to the blonde next to her and kissing him, the taste of vodka still fresh in her mouth.

She melted into his touch as he deepened the kiss, " Mornin' G," she whispered to him, voice hoarse from the night before.

He smiled in return, placing one last kiss on the corner of her lips. She searched around for her phone, finding it fallen amongst their haphazardly discarded clothes and opened Instagram to thousands of notifications.

She was used to it by now, it was quite fun.

y/nl/n

y/nl/n If I speak... @/georgerussell

edwrdnotcllen @/yn/ln you are so welcome for not squealing as soon as I knew

y/nl/n girl you asked me if you could kiss him after??? edwrdnotcllen And I still am?? username WHAT-

username I just know Lando is fuming rn

username y'all need a third? a dog? a maid?

username it should be me instead of him!!!

username god I see what you've done for others 😭

"Darling, did you post-" George had just begun but his room was rudely broken into, running in he saw a hyper papaya-coloured blur followed by a very hungover Max Verstappen.

Lando gasped looking at the woman next to George, screeching at an inhuman pitch, "HOW'D THIS PIECE OF VANILLA FRAPPUCCINO WOO HER??!?!?" He pointed at Y/n, making the woman laugh.

George offended, scoffed at the boy, "Well if you must know, I met her at Nando's party-" he was cut off once again, this time by the Dutch man.

"That makes sense actually," he said and immediately grabbed Lando by the collar and dragged him out, "Sorry guys!" he yelled after himself.

"I like your friends," Y/n said smirking making the taller man blush and push the woman slightly, before collapsing back into bed, making a silent promise of never trying to out-drink the woman again.

[prettiedup]

bf!itadori ୨ৎ

bf itadori ୨ৎ who is very upfront about his feelings for you."i like you and i really want to be your boyfriend. can i please be your boyfriend?"he's practically begging and with the way his eyes glimmer with desperation like a whining puppy - it's impossible to reject him even if you wanted to.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who posts pictures like this on his instagram. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who makes sure all of his captions mention you. "my girlfriend took this pic of me 😃!" "my girlfriend told me to post these" "my girlfriend looks so pretty! 😍🥰"

bf itadori ୨ৎ who gets upset whenever you stand on another person's head on roblox."you don't get it babe, you're basically cheating on me!"

bf itadori ୨ৎ who makes sure to you show you funny cat videos while saying, "that's so us."

bf itadori ୨ৎ who cries whenever you have to leave him whether it's to work, school, or back to your own house.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who finds a way to bring you up in every conversation he has with someone. "yeah my girlfriend said.." "i'll have to ask my girlfriend if.." "well me and my girlfriend were..."

bf itadori ୨ৎ who makes sure to take the biggest bites of your food whenever you offer it to him.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who has a period tracker app on his phone, he'll text you whenever your period is estimated to begin. "babe, try not to wear light colored jeans for the next few days." or "are u cramping rn???"

bf itadori ୨ৎ who isolates himself whenever you guys have an argument. megumi has to drag him out of his room just for him to eat properly.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who spams your phone with apologizes and begs for forgiveness.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who absolutely loses his shit whenever you give him the silent treatment. megumi blankly stares at itadori when he comes up to him with tearful eyes and a severely cracked screen.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who caves in first and comes to your dorm. "i miss my girlfriend." he'll say with a pout.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who grins brightly when you finally forgive him. his mood is instantly back up and suddenly he's an absolute ray of sunshine again.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who gets you to read to him whenever the two of you are lounging in bed together.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who demands you fall asleep on facetime with him if you guys can't go to sleep together physically.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who has a "oooh this is cute" gf meanwhile he's a "want me to get it for you?" bf. (he'll buy it for you even if you say no).

bf itadori ୨ৎ who has a "i can do it myself" gf meanwhile he's a "i know, but, please let me do it for you" bf.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who giggles as he pokes at you, " "uhmm.." he'll trail off, "i have a crush on you." he'll say. (you guys have been dating for eight months now).

bf itadori ୨ৎ who lets you test your makeup and skincare products on him. "make me look pretty." he'll tell you. (his face heats up when you tell him he's already pretty).

bf itadori ୨ৎ who compliments you multiple times throughout the day."ohh, babe, you look so pretty." "your handwriting is so beautiful." "your cooking is amazing, thank you, babe." "my pretty girl, let me see your smile."

bf itadori ୨ৎ who genuinely starts tweaking whenever you say "love you" instead of "i love you".

bf itadori ୨ৎ who always accepts doing tiktok dances with you. (he always somehow manages to do better than you even though you taught him the dance??)

bf itadori ୨ৎ who dedicates all of his social media accounts about you. "i love my beautiful, amazing, excellent, charming, funny gf" would be in all of his bios.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who would make sure your name is included in his usernames."inlovewithyn" "ynbiggestfanboy" "iliveforyn" "iworshipyn"

bf itadori ୨ৎ who fills your face with kisses whenever he makes a joke that offends you instead of making you laugh.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who will whine, "i miss my girlfriend." "dude, she just went to the bathroom." he'll get in response.

bf itadori ୨ৎ who drives everywhere no matter where the location is. #passengerprincess

bf itadori ୨ৎ who savors every hug, kiss, argument, and laugh with you because he never knows which one will be the last one.

[larluce]

Arthur and Merlin travel back in time without knowing the other is from the future too AU

Tagging @aceauthorcatqueen , @fallenxjas , @smileytrinity ,@lucifertookmyshoe , @an-entity-i-think , @thecornerofbelu , @griffonskies , @odinjm , @cinnabon-sweetroll-tiramisu , @thelady-mary , @bennedict , @nightninjaboy , @st8-of-grace , @star-rie , @error-username-not-available , @dogberryrowan , @jamieweasley13 , @tansyuduri , @tercais , @robynnemrys , @evadne01 , @serasvictoria02 , @hairdryerducks , @hopeaha , @curiously-lazy , @ harriettesthings , @andrealux16 , @wacko-weirdo , @greatdonutenemy , @yougottobekittenme , @anxiousosaurus , @kinkforwings , @someweirdassnamee , @impracticalantlers , @miyriu , @hobipabo

LINKS TO THE OTHER PARTS OF THIS AU HERE: PART 1 , PART 2 , PART 3 , PART 4 , PART 5 , PART 6 , PART 7 , PART 8 , PART 9 , PART 10 , PART 11 , PART 12 , PART 13 , PART 14 , PART 15 , PART 16 , PART 17 , PART 18 , PART 19 , PART 20 , PART 21 , PART 22 , PART 23 (You're here) , PART 24

This time when Arthur gives his speech to the villagers Will doesn't interrupt him since he has no reason to doubt his motives now that he thinks Arthur is just a hired mercenary. He does share his concern that 5 mercenaries are still not enough to fight Kanen and all his men and that the villagers don't know how to fight. Arthur soon calms him telling Will that him and his men will train the men and women who are willing to fight. Merlin finds strange that Arthur it's okay with women fighting so soon, but he concludes that Arthur being closer to Morgana in this timeline maybe made him more open minded.

Hunith: (to the knights and Arthur) It's getting late. You all can sleep in my house. Is the least I can do.

Widow woman 1: Hunith! You can't have 5 men sleeping in your house. It would be improper.

Widow woman 2: And your house is not that big, hon.

Widow woman 1: (holding knight 2 by the arm) My house is bigger. You can sleep there.

Widow woman 2: Or at mine! (Moves her eyelashes to Knight 3)

Knight 2 and 3: (turn to Arthur for help) Si-boss? 😰

Arthur: (holding back a laugh) Well, we can't deny help when is so generously given. (to the widow women) If it isn't so much of a bother, ladys, can you have two of my men in each of your houses?

Widow woman 1: (to widow woman 2, whispering) He called us ladys! 😍

Widow woman 2: (whispers back)I know! 🥰 (to Arthur) We are more than happy to help.

Arthur: Excelent! (to the knights) Now you have where to stay while we are here.

Leon: And where will you stay, Si-I mean, boss?

Arthur: I'll stay at my manse-I mean, at my employer's house. (to Hunith) Only if your offer is still up, of course, lovely Hunith.

Hunith: (giggles) You are more than welcome.

Widow women: (each one take two knights and start leaving)

Knights: (as they leave) Wait! Si-boss! Boss!😭 (and they are gone)

Merlin: (hits Arthur's arm and gives him a look)

Arthur: Ow! What?

Merlin: (pulls Arthur by the arm and takes him away away so his mother doesn't listen) You are a mercenary, remember? You are not supposed to be this nice and well behaved!

Arthur: Will you prefer me to be rude?

Merlin: No, but you don't have to act all princely!

Arthur: I don't know how to act any other way! I've been a prince all my life if you haven't notice.

Merlin: You'll have to make an effort then. You can start... (picks up an ax nearby and gives it to Arthur smiling) By getting us some wood.

Arthur: (takes the ax, confused) What?

Merlin: Yep. Lots of it. Nights here are cold.

Arthur: That's not my job.

Merlin: (smile widening) Well, since I'm your employer now it is. (taps Arthur's back) Don't be late. (leaves and once he is far away enough he laughs)

Time skip. In Merlin's house. Merlin and Hunith preparing the food.

Arthur: (enters with lumps of wood, exhausted) Here's the wood.

Hunith: (goes to Arthur) Oh, thank you so much, dear. (takes the lumps) You didn't have to.

Arthur: (smiles) Don't worry. (gives Merlin a look) It was my pleasure.

Merlin: Yes, mom. Arthur is used to hard work. He is a mercenary after all.

Arthur: (Kills Merlin with his eyes)

Hunith: I'll start the fire. (about to do so)

Merlin: No, Mom. Let Arthur do it.

Hunith: But he already spent all afternoon getting the wood!

Merlin: And you preparing the food. Besides, I'm paying him VERY generously. This is just part of the service. Right, Arthur?

Arthur: (thinking) You are gonna have so many chores when we are back in Camelot , I swear. (says to Hunith, smiling) Of course, is no problem.

Since Merlin is actually a nice person he only lets Arthur struggle for a bit before he uses magic to make a spark. Merlin knows Arthur wouldn't be able to do it himself otherwise. Arthur obviously knows he didn't make the fire, but he stills acts like he's very proud of his work.

Merlin has to give Arthur some credit though. He eats all the food this time and he even compliments it. He also thanks his mother for every nice gesture she has. It's almost like he wants her approval or something. But Merlin just thinks, since he is supposed to be a mercenary, Arthur just doesn't want to show he is used to better luxuries.

At night. Arthur and Merlin sleeping on the floor side by side.

Arthur: It must be hard to sleep on the floor again after having such a nice bed in Camelot.

Merlin: (laughs a little) Not really. Camping outside is not so different from this and we do that a lot.

Arthur: Was it hard? Living like this. (thinking) Living with this people hiding your magic constantly?

Merlin: No actually. I didn't know any different. Life is simple out here. You eat what you grow and everyone pitches in together. As long as you've food on the table and a roof over your head, you're happy.

Arthur: It sounds nice.

Merlin: You'd hate it.

Arthur: No, I wouldn't.

Merlin: (turns to Arthur, confused) Uhm?

Arthur: I love Camelot more than I can say, but when I'm there, sometimes I feel I can't hardly breath, everyone expects so much of me... But here with you I can be myself.

Merlin: But you're pretending to be a mercenary.

Arthur: You know what I mean. Here nobody knows who I am. Even if I failed to protect then, they wouldn't hold it against me. Princes and Kings can't afford to fail. As a mercenary however, my human mistakes would be just that, human mistakes.

Merlin: You won't fail.

Arthur: Of course I won't. My employer is paying me very generously.

Merlin: You are going to make me pay once we are back, aren't you?

Arthur: (yawns) You have no idea. (yawns again and puts his arms around Merlin,closing his eyes)

Merlin: Wha-What are you doing? 😳 (tries to free himself)

Arthur: It's cold and you're warm (pulls Merlin closer)

Merlin: What are your talking about? The fire is there. Arthur!

Arthur: Shut up and sleep. (falls asleep)

Merlin: (stays still for a moment, but soon snuggles and falls asleep too)

The next day Hunith finds them snuggled together and she is not surprised at all.

Hunith: Rise and shine you lazy dasies! Breakfast is ready.

Arthur: (still half asleep) Ugh, can't you think of anything new to say, Merlin?

Merlin: (waking up abruptly) MOM! 😳(pushes Arthur away from him inmediatly and stands up, very red)

Arthur: (ends to wake up suddenly and stands up, also blushing) Good morning, Hunith.😅 (smiles nervously)

Hunith: So... my son has woke you up before using my phrases it seems. And very frequently.

Merlin: It's not what you think!

Hunith: Really? Because what I think is that this (points Arthur) is prince Arthur of Camelot and that's why you always wake him up in the mornings.

Merlin: Oh... then yes, it's exactly what you think.

Arthur: How did you figure it out?

Hunith: You have too much manners for a mercenary, dear. Your men too. And handsome with blue eyes and blond hair? You are the spitting image of a Prince.

Merlin: Don't call him handsome. It'll go up his head.

Hunith: (hits Merlin's arm)

Merlin: Ow! What was that for?

Hunith: (scolding) You've been ordering the Prince around after he came all this way to help you! How could you?

Merlin: I didn't ask him to come, he invited himself! And this whole mercenary thing was his idea!

Hunith: That speaks volumes of how close you are. (To Arthur) Thank you so much for looking after my son and for what your are doing for Ealdor. You must forgive my boy, he was always very mischievous. When he was 8 there were some kids older than him that wouldn't stop bothering him so one day he hided their clothes when they were taking a bath in the river to force them to walk around the village naked.

Merlin: Mom!

Arthur: (A smile of disbelief on his face) Really?

Hunith: And not content with that, he made sure the girls they liked didn't miss the show. Poor boys, I wasn't overfond of them, but all the girls made fun of them so much they didn't go out of their homes for a month.

Arthur: (laughs having the time of his life) Oh, gods. I didn't know this side of you Merlin.

Merlin: (very red) I didn't... It was Will's idea.

Hunith: Oh, but you were very happy to help, weren't you?

Arthur: Do you have any other story, Hunith? I would love to hear them.

Merlin: No!

Hunith: Of course. I can tell you over breakfast.

Arthur and Hunith: (sit to have breakfast)

Merlin: (to the sky) Gods, have mercy on me!

Later, Arthur orders Leon and Sir Innprudence to organize sentry duty while he and the other two Knights train the women and men of the village. Merlin is surprised even Will trains, proving again that all his problem with Arthur was the fact he was a prince. Merlin can't help but notice that Arthur is harder on Will that anybody else though, but he doesn't think much of it. As expected, Will also questions him why he decided to bring these mercenaries instead of using his magic. Merlin just tells him he didn't want to expose himself infront of people that may see him as a mosnter even after he helps them. Merlin also assures Will he will use his magic to help if necessary, so he doesn't worry.

Will: (goes to Merlin after a hard day training) Merlin?

Merlin: Yeah?

Will: You are paying this mercenary leader... with money, right?

Merlin: (confused) How else would I pay him?

Will: (sighs in relief) Oh, thank the gods!

Merlin: Are you alright?

Will: Pal, mate, I hate to be the one to say this to you, but that mercenary has a thing for you.

Merlin: That's not funny, Will.

Will: I'm not joking. He is always looking at you funny and kills me with his eyes if I very much as touch you.

Merlin: He's quite protective of me is true, but that's all.

Will: (not convinced) If you say so... (changes the subject) Skivvying for a prince must pay really well if you can afford this kind of service.

Merlin: No, I wouldn't say I'm his skivvy. (looks Arthur and his Knights are aproaching in the distance and raises his voice so they hear him) It's actually worse than that.

Will: Really?

Merlin: That Prince has such stinky feet, I swear, and I had to clean his socks every day. But no matter how much I wash them, some of the smell always stays there.

Knights: (look at Arthur)

Arthur: (turns red with embarrasment and fury)

Merlin: And since I'm the one who dresses him, because of course he doesn't even know how to dress himself, who do you think has to put those socks on those stinky feet every single day.

Will: What a nightmare. At least you have your own room.

Merlin: And at what cost! My room is next to his which means everynight I have to wake up at the sound of the loudest farts I ever heard.

Sir Innpertinence: (lets out a laugh without being able to help it)

Knight 2: (hits him) Don't laugh! It's our Prince he's talking about.

Leon: (patting Arthur's back) Don't worry, Sire. Everyone has digestion problems.

Arthur: (goes to Merlin, furious)

Merlin: And don't even get me started with-

Arthur: (puts an arm around Merlin tightly and forces a smile to Will) Excuse me, I have to discuss something with my dear employer privately. (leaves pulling Merlin forcely with him)

Merlin: (manages to free himself once they are far from the knights and Will) Ow! What's your problem? 😡

Arthur: I should be the one asking you! What the hell was that? Ordering me around is one thing. But this? You're slandering me! 😡

Merlin: (crosses his arms, defiant) Oh, just like you slandered me infront of your knights?

Arthur: When did I ever do that?

Merlin: Just before coming here! You made me look like an interested lover! 😡

Arthur: That's hardly as offensive as what you said about me!

Merlin: (shouts) Well, for me it's just as bad!

Arthur: ...

Merlin: What?

Arthur: (kind of hurt) Do you... really consider the idea of being with me so disgusting?

Merlin: (confused) What?

Arthur: (embarrased, avoiding Merlin's eyes) I'm sorry, I didn't know you felt that way (thinking) Gods! How did I get everything wrong? (says) I won't do those kind of comments again.

Merlin: (notices he hurt Arthur's feelings without meaning to, feeling bad) Arthur-

Arthur: I have to go with my knig-I mean my mercenary men, yeah. (thinking) And find somewhere to cry. (about to leave)

Merlin: Arthur, wait! (grabs him by the arm)

Arthur: (still not looking at him) Merlin, it's fine. If I made you uncomfortable-

Merlin: You clotpole! I'm not saying I don't like being your lover!

Arthur: (finally turns to look at him)... What? 😧

Merlin: (lets go of him abruptly, very red) I mean... if I were, which I'm not, or if anyone was, it wouldn't be unpleasant to be with you. Occupying the role of your lover, I mean. Well, I won't deny that I've always considered that role degrading for the maidens and an abuse of authority on the part of the nobles, but that is only because they are idiots. I mean, you're an idiot too, but not that kind of idiot. You are honorable and you would respect and care for your lover if you had one, which you don't, precisely because you are too honorable to do something like that to a woman and you always care about the well-being of everyone, so much you're even helping a peasant to protect his mother and his village when you don't have to. What I really mean is that it wouldn't be bad to be your lover hypothetically speaking.

Arthur: ...

Merlin: It's not the "lover" part I hate, but the "interested" part! You made it seem like I'm only interested in your money, your influence, and your title of prince when that's never been the case! Have I ever asked you for anything? The new clothes, the new chambers, the horse? No! You decided to give me those things on your own! For which I'm thankful, yes, but that's not the reason I'm with you! (Realises his choice of words and adds) As your friend and servant that is.

Arthur: Hold on, let me get this straight. Is not the idea of ​​being my lover that bothers you, but that they think you are my lover out of interest rather than out of love?

Merlin: (stuttering, nervous) Wh-Who talked about love?

Arthur: Well, if you're telling me you wouldn't be my lover out of interest, that means you would be my lover out of love. 😏

Merlin: No! I said if anyone was your lover-

Arthur: Which includes you.

Merlin: I never included myself! 😠

Arthur: You did actually. Twice.

Merlin: No, I didn't.

Arthur: Yes, you did.

Merlin: No, I didn't! 😡 You arrogant pompous prat! You would be lucky if anyone likes you! (Leaves)

Arthur: (just follows Merlin with his eyes until he's out of sight, smiling his heart out)

Time skip. Another day. Hunith talking with Merlin at their home.

Hunith: He cares for you great deal.

Merlin: Arthur would do the same for any village. That's just the way he is.

Hunith: It's more than that. He's here for you.

Merlin: I'm just his servant.

Hunith: Is that really all you are?

Merlin: What?

Hunith: He disguised himself as a mercenary and brought his knights to defend this village at the risk of starting a war between kingdoms, which means risking his own people. Not only that, but he lets you order him and the knights around when you are 'just his servant'.

Merlin: To keep the facade!

Hunith: Give him more credit than that. He likes you, Merlin. And not as just his servant.

Merlin: That's because he doesn't know me. And if he did I'd probably be dead by now.

Hunith: You don't really believe that, do you?

Merlin: (turns very serious)... No, no I don't really believe it. He would be mad at me for a while at best or banish me at worst, but he wouldn't kill me. Arthur is not his father, he doesn't kill just for the sake of killing. He's fair and kind. And yes, I'm aware he sees me as more than a servant. I'm his confident, his friend, he relays on me... And that's the problem.

Hunith: What do you mean?

Merlin: He may not be like Uther, but that doesn't change the fact that Uther is his father and his King. By revealing him who I really am I'll be putting him in an horrible position. Is not the right time now.

Hunith: What do you mean 'now'? You're planning on telling him someday?

Merlin: ...

Hunith: Merlin! You can't do that! It's-

Merlin: Dangerouse, I know. But I'm tired of not being able to be myself, not even with my friends. And when I finally got a friend that accepted me as I was you sent me away!

Hunith: Merlin...

Merlin: I know why you did it. My "gift" was getting too out of control and thanks to Gaius now I can wield it as I please. But that doesn't change the fact that you never gave me the choice. Nobody ever gave me the choice over my life and always decided what was best for me theirselfs. You, Gaius, the damn dragon-

Hunith: A dragon?! 😨

Merlin: What I trying to say is... Arthur means a lot to me, mom. More than you can imagine. And I want at least that decision, of me telling him, to be mine.

Hunith: (holds his hands in a motherly way) I think I have an idea. I've seen how much he needs you, how much you need him. You are like-

Merlin: Two sides of the same coin? Yes, someone told me that before.

Hunith: So I'll trust your jugdment and whoever you decide to tell from now on (smiles and puts a hand on his chest) When you left you were just a boy, now look at you. I'm so proud of you. (kisses his forehead).

Merlin: (thinking) You also have your other side of a coin. Gods, I want to tell you where he is so bad. But how will I explain how I know? It was difficult enough to explain how I knew about Kanen's attack before you went to Camelot. And what if this changes what's ahead to worst? What if I end up risking your life? So I can't tell you. I'm so sorry. But I'll bring dad home as soon as I can, I promise.

Arthur: (who secretly heard the whole conversation, finally enters with wood and some dead bunnies he hunted) I brought food! 😊

Hunith: (goes to him, smiling brightly) Oh, son, you didn't have to.

Merlin: (incredulous) Son? 🤨

Hunith: Well, he sleeps under my roof, I feed him, he helps in the house and he's so close to you he may as well be. (to Arthur, taking the bunnies) I'll prepare these while Merlin makes the fire.

Arthur: Nonsense, I'll make the fire.

Hunith: Are you sure?

Arthur: Yeah, I think I'm getting the handle of it.

Hunith: Well, if you insist (gives Merlin a significant look) I'm sure you'll light it quicker this time.

Merlin: (thinking, very confused) What the fuck is happening?

Finally Kanen and his men arrive and they are ready. There's the fire trap Merlin remembers, but also others than Merlin doesn't recall like hided wood spears in the ground. Also Arthur makes a risky move by making the women wait for Kanen and his men outside and act like they were abandoned and stolen by the "mercenaries" that were supposed to help them. They even cry when they tell Kanen their husbands and sons were killed and they were left with nothing, to please have mercy on them and their little girls.

Kanen: Will you look at that. (From his horse, smiles evilly) It's our lucky day guys! We won't have harvest, but we sure gonna have some fun.

Raiders: (from their horses, celebrate)

Women: (in group cower in place)

Kanen: (spots Hunith) I remember you sweetheart. We'll have such a great time together. (To his men) Get whoever you like. This one is mine.

Raiders and Kanen: (get of their horses and aproach the women)

Arthur: (from a hidden place) Fire.

Some raiders: (are set on fire)

Merlin: (subtly makes the fire get to more raiders with his magic)

Kanen: (Gets away just in time) What the- 😨

Horses: (run in fear from the fire)

Some raiders: (try to get the horses)

Arthur: Spears

Some raiders: (get injured on the spears that suddenly appear while trying to get their horses)

Women: (fight the burned or injured man without mercy with the weapons they have hided in their clothes or nearby them)

Kanen: (to his men, especially the ones who didn’t get in either fire or spear trap, furious) What are you waiting for? ATTACK!

All raiders: (run furious to attack the women)

Men of the village: (come out of his hidden place led by Arthur and the knights and attack too)

Arthur: (fights a raider and runs him through, thinking) 294.

Merlin: (heates a raider's sword so he drops it and slies him)

Arthur: (smirks him) Not bad. (Opens his eye wide) Look out! (Slies a man that was about to attack Merlin from behind) Pay more attention.

Merlin: Sorry. (crosses swords with another raider and makes him trip with his magic, making the raider stab himself with his own sword)

Arthur: (cuts some raider's throat and shouts at Merlin) Don't lower your guard and stay close to me! (Fights another raider)

Sir Innprudence: (disarms a raider and pushes him to the ground, about to kill him, but doubts cause it's dishonorable to kill and unarmed man)

Raider: (takes advantage he's distracted, kicks him and stands up, taking Innprudence's sword)

Leon: (appears from behind the raider and kills him with his sword before he can do that) What are you doing? These men have anything but honor. Knight code don't apply to them.

Sir Innprudence: Sorry.

Arthur: (yells) Innprudence! (Punches a raider) Make sure the women are put to safety. They already did their part, we can manage.

Sir Innprudence: Yes, boss! (Goes to do that)

Kanen: (recognises the "mercenaries" and points at them) Kill them! Once they're gone these farmers won't have any hope. (Spots Arthur) And I think I know who the leader is. (Goes to Arthur)

Merlin: (watches Kanen, alert and ready to use his magic if Arthur needs it)

Kanen and Arthur: (insert brief sword fight)

Kanen: (notices with panic most of his men flee so he is outnumbered)

Atthur: (makes him trip, about to run him through)

Kanen: (quickly blinds Arthur with dirt and runs)

Arthur: (brings a hand to his eyes) This mother-

Merlin: Arthur!

Arthur: I'm fine.

Merlin: I know, you dollophead. But look! They left they all left.

Indeed all the raiders have gone and the villagers were celebrating their victory.

Merlin: (celebrates like everyone in the village) We win! (turns to Arthur) Arthur, we win! (his smile fades when he notices Arthur stares blankly where Kanen is leaving, still not completely out of sight) Arthur?

Arthur: 290.

Merlin: (confused) What?

Arthur: Is not enough. (runs to his horse)

Merlin: Wait! Where are you going? Arthur? Arthur!

Knights: (just as concerned) Sire? Sire!

Arthur: (gets on his horse and leaves)

Merlin: (shouts) Arthur! (runs to his mare) Come on, Princess. (gets on his mare and leaves to)

Knights: (do the same)

Will: (To Hunith) Did they just call him "Sire"?

Soon Arthur catches Kanen and inmovilises him on the ground, poiting him with his blade.

Arthur: (furious, yelling) Where's the rest? Where do you hide? Tell me!

Kanen: (very terrified) They abondoned me! You did a hell of a job, I won't go to that village again, I swear!

Arthur: I don't believe you! (breaks his arm and Kanen screams in agony) WHERE ARE THEY?!

Merlin: (arrives) Arthur! (gets off his mare quickly and runs to him) What do you think you are doing?! It's over! My mom is safe. Ealdor is safe. There's no need for this!

Arthur: (doesn't turn and keeps looking at Kanen, still a deadly expression on his face)

Merlin: (getting even more worried) Arthur? (thinking) What's going on?

Arthur: (coldly) Is not enough.

Merlin: What are you talking about? You did more than enough!

Kanen: (desparate) Listen to the boy-AGH!

Arthur: (twists his injured arm)

Merlin: ... Arthur?😰

Arthur: Tell me or I'll cut it off!

Kanen: (Cries in more agony)

Merlin: Arthur, you are scaring me.

Arthur: (still doesn't turn, but for the first time his expression is conflicted, he doesn't want to scare Merlin, but he needs to do this for Merlin)

Merlin: Arthur!

Arthur: I... I have to save you. I need...

Merlin: (desparate) And you did! I'm here and I'm fine.

Arthur: Not enough.

Merlin: It is enough! (holds him from behind) Arthur, is enough. Let him go. Please! Please...

Arthur: (softens his expression and considers sparing Kanen)

Kanen: (goes for his dagger with his left hand)

Arthur: (notices and cuts his throat with his sword) Too slow.

Merlin: ...

Arthur: (turns to him) He was going for his dagger.

Merlin: I know.

Arthur: And he was the leader, with him dead there's no more threat.

Merlin: I know. I'm just not... used to this. (thinking) Of you acting like this. I don't care Kanen is dead. I would've killed him myself after all the things he said to my mother. And I know you've killed people before. I shouldn't be this disturbed. But something... something is not right. I can't tell what, but something is very off and it scares me.

Arthur: (thinking) How weird. He's not used to seeing people die yet? But he killed Sophia without a problem. Is this because Kanen was human? (says) Gods, you are shaking. Come here. (hugs him) I'm sorry you had to see that.

Merlin: (hugs back and tries to light the mood more for his sake than Arthur's) Not a girl then?

Arthur: (laughs a little and pats his back with comfort) Not today. You were very brave. (pulls him closer)

Sir Innprudence: (standing a few meters away) They still don't notice we are here, right?

Knight 2: Nop.

Knight 3: Shall we...?

Leon: (shakes his head) In a minute. Let them have their moment.

Sir Innprundence: But... there's a corpse there...😰

Leon: In a minute I said 😡.

...

There's still a bit more of this episode, but the post was getting too long, so I'll leave it at this point for now.

[rooksunday]

“you were at the chancellor’s apartment again? protection duty, was it?” general vos asked, in the mild voice he used when he was pretending—badly—to be casual.

he stalked around fox’s poky office while he spoke, dragging his fingers over various surfaces as if checking for dust. honk! wheeled near his heels, blinking in affront at the implication the mouse droid might have neglected its duty.

fox watched the farce from his place by the door. he’d walked in on the scene—thire had commed about the jedi on site in good time for fox to prepare his best unimpressed face—and had stayed to watch the performance. he didn’t know why vos bothered. fox knew that vos knew that fox didn’t fall for the jedi nonsense, yet vos persisted. it was a game, of sorts, that much fox knew, though he remained unclear about all of the rules.

he wouldn’t ask. he knew that rule well enough from time spent with palpatine.

“protection detail, that’s right. the chancellor values the work of the coruscant guard,” fox said, answering vos’ question and attempting to imply that vos wasn’t valuing said work.

fox wasn’t very good at implications but thorn had told him to try. bite back the first and second thing you think. that way you might live to see life day.

alpha-17 had used to say you’re great with the regs, kid, but you’ll be fucked on the field. but then alpha-17 had recommended fox for the guard, so maybe he hadn’t cared either way what happened to fox.

“commander?”

vos had drawn closer. fox needed to pay attention. he focused on the space between vos’ eyebrows and hoped jedi couldn’t sense that kind of thing. fox’s trainers had beaten eye contact into him but time spent in helmets had offered a reprieve fox was shamefully reluctant to give up.

“how can i help you, general?”

“i’d hoped— i’d hoped we could talk.”

“we’re talking now, sir.”

vos smiled. fox didn’t know why.

“we’re saying words,” vos said. he perched one hip on fox’s desk.

more ‘casual’. fox repressed a sigh.

“i don’t— excuse me, sir.” fox glanced down at honk!, who had come to a stop at his boots, and listened to the short complaining trill of binary. loosing the sigh at a more benign target, fox crouched down to pull a twist of decorative flimsi out from between honk!’s wheels, and slipped it into the pouch on his utility belt.

statement: gratitude

query: username: ten-ten requires assistance

fox shook his head and patted honk!’s chassis. “negative.”

honk! whistled a cheerful, derogatory turn, then wheeled off to his next task. fox snorted.

“negative?” vos asked, making fox start. he glanced up to see vos’ expression do something complicated. something soft.

fox straightened to his full height. it wasn’t very impressive, next to vos, but not much about fox was impressive, all told. he’d become used to that.

yet lately—

you have excellent posture, commander.

you offer a unique perspective, commander.

i value your—

“the mouse droid. it had a question, sir,” fox said, speaking much too loudly for the scant space between he and vos, but needing to drown out the gentle, insidious voice of his memory.

“oh? anything i can help with?”

fox shook his head. “nothing to concern yourself with, general. i’m sure you have more important demands on your time than anything you might find here. was there anything i might help you with?” fox couldn’t ask what vos was doing in his office—it wasn’t even fox’s office, just as his armour wasn’t his own, nor his time nor his life—but fox tried to chivvy the general as best he could.

“like i was saying, i’d hoped we could talk.”

“about anything in particular, sir?”

“i wanted to ask about the—“

fox’s comm went off, with the duo-tone sound reserved for only one being, and he raised his hand to pause vos. “excuse me, sir. it’s the chancellor’s office.” reading the message on his vambrace, fox found a summons to the senate. fox acknowledged the message and felt the tension syrup from his shoulders as he did.

was he relieved to leave vos?

or was he relieved that the chancellor needed him again?

“i have to go. perhaps commander 4477 will be able to assist you,” fox said. thire thought the jedi were hilarious, for some reason.

“i’d really hoped—“

“my apologies, sir. the chancellor has summoned me.”

“yeah,” vos muttered, as fox turned to leave. “that’s kind of what i’d hoped to talk about.”

[prokopetz]

I have an excellent eye for art styles and a shit memory for names and faces, which in practice means I probably won't recognise your username or your profile pic, but show me anything you've drawn in the last year and I'll instantly identify you as the person who used to put untagged robot dick on my dashboard circa 2014.

[directdogman]

Commenting on DT fan OCs!

Alright, I'mma take a look at some DT fan OCs! I've been sent quite a few, so I'll try to keep my comments for each one short 'n' sweet!

great name, snappy dresser. diggin' the bowtie! the pins are also a fun accessory!

Another snappy dresser! Tied well to an existing location in-game and the idea to explain the stickers is cute! attire is unique/memorable and the blues/browns compliment each other well. solid design. I do appreciate him!

Yo, this guy was in the last one! what is this, a crossover episode???

the bandage on side of face is a nice touch! digging the pinstripe pants too! graveyard shift at a convenience store is also quite an authentic job for a DT side character to have too! very nicely done.

Solid OC! well-drawn, unique job and her fit's stylish (it probably goes without saying that i'm a sucker for TV heads with dogs on them. that's gotta be a given, right?) The stickers on the back of the head are also a nice addition! well done!

Stanley's a real cad, huh? pizza delivery guy with a novelty pizza phone head is genius - making him flirt with milves on the job is just inspired though. i almost wish i'd come up with this guy, as i can totally imagine people around town talking about him. excellent job!!!

he's aptly named for an arcade dude! dig the fit too, especially the black + purple fingerless long sleeve gloves! the decals on the phone are neat too!

I approve of his activities but the lack of a visible mouth threw me off, since i've seen these old toy phones before, ofc.

i was about to ask "how does he drink ocean water without a mouth", before realizing that id been bamboozled into asking the fandom-favourite question of: 'how does he eat without a mouth?', only to then remember that practically no DT characters have visible mouths.

i hope you know that you've strained my weary brain today. cool OC, though.

banana phone's a fun concept! also, i must say your username's quite fitting. crept up on me from my peripheral as I gazed upon the banana phone, like a bizarre centipede of some sort. well, i'd assume so. in hindsight, most centipedes i've encountered have been pretty straightforward with me. i guess i should be grateful for that.

i like mary's fuzzy phone matching the trim of her dress but martin's really got my attention. cool name, neat quirk (he kills people, that takes moxie. hell, even pizzaz too, dare i say?) The dial being a lil clock is a neat touch since it ties his interest into the design. also quite like the cord tail matching the phone head's colour. solid design!

i like his head-type and the attire/pale skin gives a nice bit of contrast!

hard to say how randy'd feel about him, as someone who's only seen his design and 2 lines of dialogue (as someone's personality dictates randy's opinion on them far more than their appearance.) if you feel they'd get on though, you're probably correct! (randy isn't too picky, after all!)

Funnily enough, one of the earliest sketches for crown has a similar bolted plate stuck to a mostly intact phone head. it was even sticking from one of the sides. or corners. i'd have to dig up the notebook, as it's been like 4 years since I came up with the character. Sorry, just made me remember since the earliest sketches had one too.

Copper phone head's a neat idea. Contrasts well with his attire as well (nice and complimentary.) if only his attempts to deter jesse from the za worked out as well, eh?

Alright, that's it for me! thanks for the submissions, these were real creative! good job, everyone!