#blizzard of oz

[randyrhoadsstudent]

Just wandered onto this, Ozzy recalling Blizzard of Oz.

[bayareabadboy]

[randgugotur-6]

This Day in Metal 🤘

𝙈𝙖𝙮 8𝙩𝙝 1981 #𝙊𝙯𝙯𝙮𝙊𝙨𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 #𝙈𝙤𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝘾𝙖𝙢𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙖 𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙮 𝙒𝙖𝙧 𝙈𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝘼𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙖, 𝙅𝙤𝙝𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙣, 𝙋𝙚𝙣𝙣𝙨𝙮𝙡𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙖

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙧𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙨𝙪𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙊𝙯𝙯𝙮’𝙨 #𝘽𝙡𝙞𝙯𝙯𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙤𝙛𝙊𝙯𝙯𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙧 #𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙮𝙈𝙚𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙃𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮

[loveshotzz]

I have a pretty good one awhile ago but I don't ever see myself writing it.

Reader and Eddie are good friends, Argyle drops by his trailer to buy, and he ends up flirting with the reader. Later reader and Eddie go to a party, Argyle is there, and in sure you know where it goes from there

Argyle x fem!reader

You can call me names if you call me up

Warnings:18+ Weed dealing, weed smoking, mentions of drinking, slight mentions of hellcheer? (eddie has a crush and we make fun of him for it) kissing, semi public fingering (f! receiving)

Word count: 5.8k

beta’d by @superblysubpar

Authors note: This is my first ever Argyle fic! Thank you @sleepy-princ3ss for letting me write this! I had a lot of fun this one but it’s scary to write a new character so let me know what you think! I also had a good time writing Eddie as our best friend who doesn’t want to fuck us. Wild right? Still, there’s lots of Eddie in here too 💕

The summer heat always feels extra sticky inside Eddie’s trailer this time of year, the stale breeze that floats through his cracked window does nothing to cool you down. Thumbing through the worn covers of the records Eddie keeps in his room you hum along to the last few chords of Ride The Lightning. When the covers of Back In Black and Blizzard of Oz stick together, you grimace as you pull them apart. A crumpled cut of a babe from a Heavy Metal Magazine is the ‘glue’ that was holding them together.

“Eww Eddie! What the fuck?” god, your best friend was gross.

Clumsy loud footsteps bring him to the entrance of his room, bangs sticking to his forehead from sweat, his face flushes an even deeper shade of red when his eyes zero in on what you’re glaring at.

“I - uh,” coughing nervously, he scratches the back of his neck, the chain wrapped around his wrist sliding down his arm, “I don’t - I don’t know how that got there.”

Scoffing with a roll of your eyes you examine it a little more closely, careful not to touch it. The blond hair and the big blue eyes were a dead give away why this had to have been his favorite.

“She kinda looks like Chrissy don’t you think? Like if she got a metal makeover or whatever you’d call this,” snorting when his face turns into a tomato, his own glare takes over his features when he narrows his eyes at you.

“Why are you even snooping through my records, this one just started?” blinking quickly with embarrassment he looks like he’s ready to explode and you’ve never been more pleased with yourself.

Opening your mouth ready to bite back with something that you were sure was going to send him over the edge, the sound of three quick knocks followed by a single fourth one cuts you off before you can even start.

“Who’s that?” confused at his lack of communication with anyone crashing your hang out, he snaps - gesturing for you to step away from his records before he answers you.

He’s halfway out his bedroom door with you quick on his heels when he finally does.

“Jonathan and his friend from Cali are here to pick up real quick,” groaning at the sound of Jonathan’s name, Eddie laughs loudly before signaling for you to shut up with a finger to his lips.

It wasn’t that you hated Jonathan, he was just always such a downer when he’d join in on your smoke sessions.

Opening the door when you cross your arms with a nod signaling you’ll behave, he turns his charismatic Munson charm up to a ten with a wide grin.

“Byers,” giving him a slight bow, he extends his tattooed arm wide inviting them in, “Byer’s friend.”

You see Jonathan first, who gives you an awkward small wave and a tight lipped grin, lifting three fingers you give him the same energy.

“Oh hey man, the name’s Argyle excited to see what kinda weed you got out here,” Jonathan’s cute friend that follows him in was not what you expected as he clasps his hands together rubbing his palms excitedly stepping through the threshold.

Chestnut hair longer than Eddie’s sways as he walks in, the top of it hidden by a flipped bill green cap. Its smooth texture makes your hand twitch, you’re almost positive it’d feel like silk against your fingertips. A big dopey smile graces his full pink tinged lips as his already bloodshot brown eyes meet yours when he finally turns to see you in the hallway.

All the loud colors and clashing designs on his clothes makes the corners of your mouth tug up. Curiosity piqued, you throw him a more flirtatious wave, fluttering your lashes for good measure.

Eddie rolls his eyes from behind him catching onto your antics, but Argyle looks like he’s been turned to stone, frozen in place as he takes in your barely covered frame. Leaning a shoulder against the wall you watch his eyes trail up the uncovered expanse of your legs till he hits the frayed ends of your jean shorts, your spaghetti strap tank top gives him the perfect view of the curve of your breasts barely hidden beneath the thin fabric. Sweat beading off your heat kissed skin.

Clearing his throat he shakes his head when he feels his jaw go slack, glancing worriedly at Eddie who’s already too busy rummaging around the living room looking for his trusty metal lunch box.

“Don’t mind her, she’s just my partner in crime,” waving a dismissive ringed hand in your direction as he digs behind the couch Jonathan just got settled on, Argyle’s face falls slightly at the nickname.

That still didn’t stop him from watching you push yourself off the wall and walk to the kitchen island, sitting yourself on the cleared spot on top. Legs moving to the beat of the music still bleeding out from the speakers in Eddie’s room, you knew he was completely transfixed on you as he rocked back on his heels.

“Got it boys!” cheering himself on loudly, it’s your turn to roll your eyes.

“Only you would lose your lunch box full of drugs Munson,” winking at Argyle after you roast your best friend, his smile turns shy when he looks away.

“Bold of you to insult me when you smoke for free,” squinting with threatening eyes, he flips the lid open, the metal connecting with the wood of the coffee table in a loud clunk.

Sticking your tongue out at him he scoffs before turning his attention towards Jonathan pulling out two different bags of the new strains Rick had just supplied him with.

Argyle watches you both with confused eyes, unsure what to think of your banter as he feels the shift in your stare. The heat of it makes all the blood rush to his cheeks when he dares to meet it. Waving him over, you remind him to actually finish walking in. Eyes going wide at the realization, he looks down as he walks over to stand in the space right next to you.

Leaning his back against the formica countertop, your knee brushes the side of his arm with every small kick of your dancing feet. He smells like the kind of weed that makes you feel bad for whatever Eddie’s about to sell them and a hint of an earthy toned cologne. Dark eyes lifting up to yours, his breath catches in his throat when you meet his gaze instantly.

“Sooo, how’s it going?” purposely nudging him this time, you get a smile to finally break across his nervous face.

“It’s uhh- it’s good, Jonathan’s mom is super nice. Her cooking is shmackin,” giggling a little, he told himself it was because of the lingering effects of the weed they smoked on the way here, not because of the way you sucked your bottom lip between your teeth as you listened.

“Oh yeah, dinner at Joyce’s is always a hit. She really is the sweetest,” eyes crinkling in the corners when you grin at him, he was even cuter this close.

“How long are you visiting?” resting your chin on your shoulder when you look up at him, the height difference is still noticeable despite your advantage. His cheeks turn bubble gum pink at your flirty questioning.

“Just for a few weeks, I don’t want to put them out too much you know? She’s got a full house over there with everyone back,” you catch a hint of sadness in his mellow voice. He missed his best friend, that was more than evident. The thought of only seeing Eddie a few weeks out of the year sounded miserable.

“So you and Jonathan huh? How’d that even happen?” The difference in their personalities was astounding, but even you had to admit that Byers came back from California a little more relaxed. Meeting Argyle you’re starting to figure out why.

“Ahh yeah, dudes was like having a total meltdown at school one day about some stuff with Nancy, I felt bad you know, he looked like someone kicked his dog.” Glancing over at his friend he laughs at the memory.

“So I just showed him the ways of Purple Palm Tree delight and the rest was history.” Smirking proudly when he looks at you, his eyes briefly drift towards your lips curled up into their own grin.

“Finally! Someone got Byers to chill out!” Your praise is loud enough to get a side eye from Jonathan and a laugh from his cute friend.

“It’s super nice of you to come all this way to visit Argyle, I hope you make the most of your time here,” sweetness drips from your words making his eyes grow as big as saucers when he catches the slight invitation hidden inside them.

Jonathan finally speaks loud enough for the whole room to hear, snapping your attention away from the pretty stoner boy.

“Are you guys going to the party at Rick’s tonight?” shoving the bag of weed he just bought in his back pocket, his beady eyes dart between you and Eddie.

Argyle’s still in his own world and Eddie’s got a front row seat to his completely smitten gaze dead set on your face. Despite being annoyed with you all afternoon, you’d always been a good wingman when he needed it. Lips pulling up in a mischievous smirk he wiggles his eyebrows at you before answering.

“We are!”flipping the lid to his lunch box shut with obnoxious force, you’re truly shocked he hasn’t broken it yet with his need for dramatic flair.

The sound of metal clanking loudly snaps Argyle out of whatever lovesick daze you already had him in from just from batting your lashes and showing a little interest. His eyes connect with Eddie's, a sheepish look taking over his face from being caught openly gawking.

“We are? what part-“ Eddie glares at you before cutting you off.

“The party I was literally just telling you about before they got here,” he looks pointedly at the boy shuffling his feet next to you.

Argyle’s eyes stay fixated on the dirty carpeted floor doing his best not to stare, completely oblivious to the way Eddie was trying to help him out, not scold him.

Glancing over at the cowering boy, it’s like a light bulb flashes on top of your head when you realize Eddie was trying to help you get laid.

“Ohhh that party! Sorry, stoner memory you know?” bumping your shoulder with his, your lips twist up in a grin when the chocolate of his eyes meet yours, “Totally going”

The look on Argyle’s face is hard to read as a mixture of excitement and fear cross over his features at the same time. Shifting uneasily, he keeps looking at Eddie from the corner of his eye but he can’t stop the smile that slowly spreads across his soft lips, big pearly whites flashing at you.

“C-cool, I’ll totally see you there,” coughing as he scratches the back of his neck before quickly turning his attention to Eddie, “And uhh- you too man, I’ll uh see you there too!” the last part comes out loud enough to be a yell, his nerves making his voice shake.

“Uhhh, yeah man. For sure,” Eddie’s tone is laced with confusion, eyebrows raised in question as he looks at Argyle like he’s growing a second head.

Jonathan looks at his friend with wide eyes, his cheeks turning rosy from embarrassment from his outburst. Shaking his head, he stands up with a pat on his thighs - giving the universal gesture for ‘it’s time to go’

“Alright, well this got awkward. I think we’re gonna head out, we’ll see you guys tonight,” beckoning his friend to follow him towards the front door, he steals one last look at you before almost tripping over his own feet following Jonathan, flashing you a lopsided grin.

Shutting the door behind them Eddie turns to you with a smirk that you want to smack off his face.

“Look if that’s what you’re into -“ you throw a stray Readers Digest at Eddie before he has a chance to finish teasing you.

“Oh? Would you like him more in a pleated skirt waving some Pom Pom’s for Jason and his goons?” jumping off the counter you go for the jugular, your smirk growing when you get the same hard glare from earlier in his room.

“Listen, Caspian likes who he likes. I’m just the guy behind the wheel,” hands raised in mock defense, you snort rolling your eyes walking away with crossed arms.

“Eddie, your dick isn’t the Prince of fucking Narnia,” his boisterous laugh booms over the music and your glad he can’t see the way your lips twitch up at his antics, butterflies making their way inside your stomach at the thought of seeing Argyle’s goofy smile again again.

——

You’ve always hated parties, especially Reefer Rick parties. Messy and way too loud, it wasn’t just the usual crowd at Harrington's, dodging leering stares around every corner, you cling to Eddie’s arm as a deterrent.

“I don’t know what you were thinking wearing that skirt to Rick’s,” laughing at the permanent look of disgust that was stuck on your face as the two of you weave through the crowd, you turn your head up to stick your tongue out.

“You’re gonna give that poor kid a heart attack,” Eddie shakes his head when he sees the Cheshire smile that takes over your face as you approach the makeshift drink station, “Death by bone - Byers!”

Eddie’s outburst makes you jump when your eyes meet Argyle’s from over the keg on the dining room table, the stoned grin on his face faltering when he sees your arm wrapped tightly around Eddie’s. Big brown eyes only grow bigger when he gets a glimpse of the expanse of your legs and another thin tank top covering your chest like earlier, leaving little for his imagination.

The rosy color comes back to his cheeks when you let go of Eddie as you approach with a smile that seemed to be reserved just for him pretty on your glossed lips.

“Hey Argyle,” breathy and smitten, your own cheeks heat up when the corner of his mouth turns up, lopsided just how you like.

“Hey - wow, you look - wow - yeah you look gorgeful,” stumbling over his words, Jonathan looks exasperated with his best friend already, “I mean gorgeous, err — um beautiful.”

Jonathan raises his eyebrows in a greeting at you before taking a sip from his red solo cup, doing his best to ignore the stuttering mess next to him as he greets Eddie with their dude shake.

Argyle catches Eddie’s passive stare and it only seems to make him more nervous.

“Hey man, you look, you look uhh great too!” stammering a little less, his voice raises a few octaves borderline yelling just like in the living room earlier.

“Careful Argyle, keep smooth talking me like this and I’m gonna think you want me and not my friend here,” Eddie winks with a dimpled grin spread wide across his face before he scopes out the scene of the party. Zeroing in on a home base on the couch in the living room that sat miraculously unoccupied.

“Think I’m gonna post up, you know what they say ‘When in Rome’,” he gestures with his head to the spot to Jonathan, “Wanna join? I got a joint with our name on it.”

“Isn’t Rick gonna get pissed at you for selling at his house?” finally tearing your eyes away from Argyle who’s openly gaping at Eddie, you look up at your best friend.

“Pffft, please. It’s not like he’s not going to see the fruits of my labor, it’s fine, trust me. He’s probably already plastered and passed out on his waterbed anyway,” shrugging off your concern he looks at Jonathan expectantly.

“You good with that buddy?” clapping a hand on his friend's back, Argyle’s brown eyes dart back and forth between you and Eddie, repeating the words “my friend” like he was trying to solve a puzzle.

“Yeah, he’ll protect me from all the creeps won’t you,” grabbing his hand, the heat of his palm is an instant comfort against yours. Sucking your bottom lip between your teeth you look up at him from under your lashes. His cheeks turn the color of cherry blossoms when he finally meets your stare, squeezing your hand gently, he looks back at the two boys finding his nerve.

“Yeah I’ll protect this pretty little princess with my life man,” saluting your best friend, Eddie raises his eyebrows seemingly unimpressed before turning back to Jonathan.

“Ready?” ignoring Argyle’s pledge you snort at Eddie’s casual bitchiness.

“Yeah, let's go. Look, be cool man, don’t take anything anyone here offers you, got it? I’m not taking care of you again like that time you ate the mushrooms you found in the woods,” Jonathan looks a lot like the guy you’d always known talking to his friend like he would his little brother with a finger pointed in Argyle’s face.

“There'll be no mushroom consumption on my watch, Byers,” mocking Argyle’s salute, your antics earn an eye roll from Eddie knowing damn well if the offer was given to both of you, you’d fold.

“Alright! You kiddos, have fun and don’t do anything I wouldn’t do!” Eddie grabs Jonathan by the shoulders aggressive enough to have his beer slosh over the lid and you were almost positive that annoyed scowl would be stuck on his face all night.

Watching them till they both got lost in the crowd of bodies, you and Argyle finally dare to face each other. The air between you thickening now that you were alone, and he was still very much holding your hand.

“Do-“

“How-“

It was like a cheap rom com the way you both went to talk at the same time, cheeks heating up as you both look at the ground, a new shyness taking over. Squeezing his hand you encourage him.

“You first,” soft and sweet, you swear you his pupils dilate from the way you look at him.

Argyle gets the same expression on his face Eddie does when he’s forced to talk to Chrissy when she comes to buy weed for her friends. He was silently hyping himself up. Straightening his shoulders he clears his throat before the smile that made your stomach do flips graces his kissable lips.

“Can I get the pretty lady a beveregino?”

A stumbling drunk someone knocks into you before you have a chance to give an answer. Flying into his chest he lets go of your hand to grab at your hips, helping you regain your balance. The slurred apology falls on deaf ears when you and Argyle lock eyes from this close, chest to chest his fingers dig into you just enough to notice.

“I’m not much of a drinker, more of a stoner. Wanna go by the lake? I stole a joint from Eddie before we left,” grinning with pride at your sticky fingers, his lips twitch up, eyes crinkling at the corners.

“Woman after my own heart, hell yeah! Let's blow this popsicle stand,” turning you around he keeps his hands on your hips, lips coming close to your ear from behind, “Lead the way my weed smoking goddess”

Goosebumps rise, dancing across your skin at the feeling of his warm breath fanning down your neck as you lead him through the crowd. His hands never leave their spot from your hips, their grip tightening as you get closer to the sliding glass door that takes you out to Rick’s backyard.

Stepping onto the wooden deck he finally lets you go, there’s just a few stragglers outside smoking cigarettes too lost in their own conversation to notice the two of you. The air has lost most of its humidity, leaving the night in a post heatwave glow. The stars gleam bright next to the moon in the clear night sky, reflecting off the water it lights your way as you walk hand in hand down to the lake. Stealing glances at him from the corner of your eye the whole way down, you catch him doing the same thing, both of you giggling every time your eyes meet.

Finding a place nestled next to Rick’s boat house, you were far enough from the party for the loud music and constant chattering to seem like a faint noise in the background. The laps of the water hitting the shore take center stage as you curl your legs under your thighs when you sit like the princess he claimed you to be on the plush grass.

His knee brushes yours when he plops down Indian style next to you, his curious eyes follow yours as you look down at your exposed cleavage. Digging into your bra you pull a perfectly rolled joint with a smug smirk on your face, twirling it around in your dainty fingers he can’t help but throw his head back and laugh.

“I thought chicks only did that in movies, that’s some secret spy shit,.” the smile he gives you makes you want to squirm, “Crafty and beautiful.”

Not used to the kind of confidence he was giving you alone like this, you bite your lip to try and hide your smile as you tuck your hair behind your ears.

“Please, Eddie’s just oblivious,” scoffing, your face feels like the hottest part of the day from words that were sweeter than the ice cream cone you had earlier at Benny’s.

“I think it’s a little bit of both,” winking as he leans back, eyes watching you the way every woman dreams of as you search for a lighter.

“I think Eddie still has the lighter,” the cute pout that pulls at your bottom lip has his fingers twitching.

Holding up his index finger he starts digging through his multicolored jogger pockets.

“No need to worry, I’ve got us covered beautiful,” pulling out a bright yellow Surfer Boy Pizza one, he hands it to you with a lazy lopsided grin.

“My hero,” leaning forward as you snatch it, you dare to press a chaste kiss on his cheek as a token of your gratitude.

His eyes go wide enough to see the whites behind them and that perfect kind of smile that pushes against his cheeks is almost brighter than the moon hanging in the sky.

Scooting closer when you flick the lighter, the breeze that washes over the lake has other plans when it keeps snuffing the flame out. After the third failed attempt Argyle scoots closer, shoulders and thighs touching his big hands cover yours as a shield.

“Thank you,” daring to look at him from this close, his eyes meet yours almost instantly, catching the way they flutter down to your lips and how he has to wet his own after.

Tearing your gaze away, you focus on lighting the joint, the flame catching almost instantly with his help. Twirling it around so it burns even, he lets his hands fall at the same time as you. The palm of yours landing on the top of his, your eyes meeting again as you hollow out your cheeks taking the first hit. He just smirks, not moving an inch, the heat of his body is warm against your skin from this close.

The silence is comfortable as the two of you pass the joint back and forth for a while, fingers brushing purposefully with every hand off. Leaning completely against each other with pinkies hooked between you, he’s the one that breaks the silence when you hit the middle of the joint.

“So have you lived here your whole life?” plucking at the grass next to him he looks up at you with soft eyes as you finish filling your lungs.

“Yep, pretty much. My parents lived in Indianapolis till I was three then moved here for a quieter life,” snorting at the cliche of it, you pass him the joint, “What about you? Always been in California?”

“Yeah, it’s just me and my mom. She’s like the best ever though, so, you know I don’t really need anyone else but her,” taking a big hit of the joint so he didn’t have to elaborate further, you changed the subject.

“Would you ever leave? Like, move somewhere else?” it’s your turn to pick at the grass, the nerves of getting to know a boy getting the best of you.

“What? Like here?” smirking at you when he hands you the joint, your cheeks heat up at what he’s implying.

“No! Don’t move to Hawkins, there’s nothing here,” smiling around the end of the joint you take a hit to distract yourself from his playful stare.

“I don’t know, it seems pretty cool to me so far,” you don’t miss the way his pinky squeezes yours after the sentence leaves his mouth, eyes looking at you pointedly daring you to catch on.

“You wouldn’t survive the winters, I’m sure of it,” looking at him from under the hood of your lashes, your teeth tug at your bottom lip barely hiding your smile when you hand him back the joint.

“What about you? Do you wanna move?” his eyes glaze over when he takes his hit starting to reach the end of it, your bodies buzzing with the high and the excitement of a new crush.

“More than anything, Community College is just really cheap out here and I don’t know what I want to do yet, so the plan is to move anywhere that's not here after I figure that out,” sighing at the thought of finally leaving Hawkins you meet his gaze when you feel the chocolate of his eyes on you.

“I’m going to Community College too! And I also don’t know what I’m doing! Look at us two peas in a pod man,” he’s loud with excitement sending you into a fit of giggles and you lean even deeper into his side as he hands you the joint.

“Just need Eddie hurry it up, he finally graduated but he still has to take two summer school classes. We’re supposed to do this college thing together,” he catches the small frustrated pout you try to hide.

It’s quiet for a minute, the elephant in the room coming back as the sound of the water and crickets fill your ears.

“So you and Eddie like never..?” not bold enough to meet your side eye after the question leaves his mouth, you smirk as you take another rip. Exhaling slowly before handing it back to him.

“We’ve known each other since we were kids so naturally, we tried kissing once. It happened the summer before Junior year,” sticking your tongue out like there was a bad taste in your mouth, the memory makes you shudder, “Too weird, we’re too close.”

Argyle just nods trying to keep his poker face as he takes a hit when he hears that Eddie has actually kissed you before, but you catch on quick.

“Besides, despite the metal appearance,” leaning closer like you were about to indulge in a secret you whisper, “He likes cheerleaders.”

Earning a snort from him the smoke of his inhale flows freely out his nose and mouth as he chuckles at your antics.

“And I like pizza delivery boys, especially cute ones from California,” the weed settles enough to make you feel bold and you watch him freeze at your flirty words.

He slowly meets your gaze, bloodshot eyes scanning your face for any trace of humor but he’s only met with the hungry look in yours staring at his lips, and he swears your brows furrow with want when your tongue glides across wetting your bottom lip.

“Yeah?” his voice cracks when he puts out the remainder of the joint into the ground, angling his body more towards yours.

Nodding, you squeeze your hooked pinky with his silently begging him to give you what you want.

Taking your cue, he leans forward close enough for your noses to touch, the hesitation to fully commit has your lips brushing feather light against his. You can taste the last of the joint as you breath each other in, grabbing a fist full of his shirt when you’ve finally had enough, you close the gap with a satisfied hum when they mold instantly with yours.

It feels like the Fourth of July behind your closed lids, still a month away but the fireworks you swear you feel blur your vision when you lose yourself in him. Begging for more when your tongue swipes across his bottom lip, he groans low when he gives you everything you want. Tongues and teeth clash together desperate like years of pining finally come to an end despite it being less than a day, maybe it was the weed or maybe it was him, but it feels like it’s everything you want and more.

The initial intensity dwindles as you start to move lazy and slow against each other. Taking his time, he savors every giggle and gasp he pulls from you. Your hands find their way into his long hair, it’s even softer than you imagined when your fingers run through it. His hat falls off when you give it a gentle tug at the base of his neck.

Working up enough courage to pull you on his lap, he swallows your moan when you feel the bulge in his pants. The lace panties you wore just for him and the thin material of his joggers is the only thing between you and what’s underneath. Your skirt sits bunched up at your hips with his hands and you can’t help it when you rock against him, feeling every inch of him against your clit.

Pulling you down closer, his lips take a break from yours to make their way over your jaw and down the curve of your neck. Nipping and sucking against all the sweet spots that sit nestled just behind your ear. A high pitched whine escapes you when he applies just the right amount of pressure with his teeth, smiling against your skin, his nose nudges against your earlobe, a soft “Yeah?” sending your nerves down your spine.

His hands make their way to your thighs squeezing at the soft fat before his fingertips drag their way across the expanse of them finding their new home at the curve of your ass. Toying with the sides of your underwear you collect his lips again with your fingers holding onto his chin.

Rocking with a little more force when your tongues meet again, his hands grip you harder making you bite his lip in response.

“You- you can touch me,” your voice is quiet when you dare to say the words out loud, his lips stopping abruptly against yours.

“A-are you sure?” his eyes look black even in the moonlight when they meet yours from over the bridge of your nose.

Nodding against him, you encourage his hand as your lips meet his again, pulling your panties to the side he groans loud into your mouth when he’s met with your slick folds coating his fingertips.

“Holy shit, I can’t believe you’re real,” staring up at you, he’s mesmerized at the way you shudder when the pads of his long fingers rub circles on your clit.

Mewling when he lets the tip of his middle finger poke at your entrance, you dig your nails into his broad shoulders when he finally pushes one in, your velvet walls gripping him hard, pulling him deeper. His hips jut up at the sensation only adding to how good it all feels.

“G- god Argyle don’t - don’t stop please,” your demand comes out as a whine when he adds a second finger, curving them slightly brushing that spongy spot inside of you.

“I like that, I like when you say my name like that,” the pad of his thumb meets your bundle of nerves as you start to shamelessly ride his hand, the need to cum taking over all the bashfulness from before.

“Yeah?”

Nodding against the side of your face he nips at your jaw before taking your lips, the strokes of his fingers becoming more deliberate.

He manages to say, “Do it again” between kisses as he curves his fingers once more, getting him exactly what he asked for.

Kisses turn sloppy as you get closer to your release, your hands leave their place on his shoulders to dig at the roots at the nape of his neck, tugging the way that earned you a moan the last time.

He increases the speed of his fingers, the sound of how wet you are is loud enough to be embarrassing but it only makes him twitch inside his pants as he thrusts up, your mouth falling open against his.

“I’m gonna - god - I’m gonna cum,” pulling his hair hard enough it should hurt, he only pushes himself deeper in response, the new intensity sending you over the edge.

“Yeah? Good, come on let me feel it,” his voice is hardly recognizable the moment those words come out of your mouth. Deep and thick with want, it has your thighs shaking as you drench his fingers, face buried in the crook of his neck you let your orgasm wash over you like a storm.

“Jesus, you look like an angel right now,” his voice comes out like a whisper, almost like he’s saying it to himself.

His hips stop their movements as his fingers slow their pace when he feels your body start to calm down, pulling them out despite the fight of your walls they keep fluttering around nothing from the aftershock.

Your gasp is quiet against his skin when you don’t feel so full anymore. You’re too stoned and too tired to open your eyes when you hear the sound of him sucking his fingers clean.

“You’re sweeter than fucking pineapple, I swear,” chuckling at his own revelation your lips tug up into a smirk finally having the strength to meet his gaze.

“You like pineapple?” you had no idea the question would elicit such a strong response until his face lit up like a Christmas tree.

“Do I like pineapple? Do I like -“ Jonathan’s panicked voice rings out over the lake interrupting the out of body experience Argyle was about to have about fruit.

“Come on guys, Rick kicked Eddie out for selling at his party!”

[richardsletters]

"Victoria, Hi <3 my best to you and your Family. Warmest regards. :) Say hi to Caledon for me. Send pictures. What job would you never want to do? Send pictures of you sitting down or being outside. Do you scrub in the shower/tub with scrubber or towel? Ever read dictionaty? I like to learn new words from time to time. Ever heard of female hormone therapy? I f so what do you know of it? Where were you born? Ever heard of or told stork sotry? Of where kids come from? Ever play handball? Whos your best friend these days? I used to play handball with my sister. Sha was pretty good. Send excerpts from joke books. Ever left or lost your panties somewhere? I so who found em and were? Which are your favorite parts in a girl? I like legs and butts. Check out the perfume Red Roses by Jo Malone. Good scent. What did Caledon give you for mothers day? Whats items must you always have? Ever read põem Invictus by William Ernest Henley? Its excelenteI might of sent it to you before. Thats all for now. Write soon. Love you Always :) <3 Richard

Happy Holidays!"

"Verse 2 Drawings enclosed songs"

"Albums/Bands...

Pantera Vulgar Display of Power / Emperor prometheus /System of a Down Toxicity / Mesheggah Destroy Erase Improve / Ozzy Blizzard of Oz / Cradle of Filth Dusk and Her Embarce / Korn Follow the Leader / Soundgarden Badmotorfinger / Venom Black Meatl / Bad Brains I against I / James Addiction nothing shocking"

"... and sunrise arose and scattered on the grass she comes from love under an asphalt moon tender her arms her legs and body with a soft voice she keeps coming from head to toe and out of the blue poking and prodding and asking why shes the first kiss and last early on washing hands and feet to keep them young."

[outsidersheadcanons]

The gang during a natural disaster? (Tornado or a Blizzard)

Thanksss!

So these guys are from Oklahoma. They are no strangers to tornadoes (but they are still scared to death when they happen) EXCEPT for Dally. He had no idea what a tornado even WAS until the sirens started blaring and the sky got all dark.

Darry usually takes charge in these situations and herded everyone into the bathroom (since it has the least amount of windows in the house (one tiny window) and bathroom walls are pretty sturdy). Despite this he still went outside. Just to check

As soon as it started getting loud Ponyboy started to FREAK OUT (Darry told him to start praying, which helped him a lot w/ focusing on smth else that wasn't the tornado). Johnny was sitting next to him in the empty bathtub and they both clung to each other the entire time. Soda got in with them and tried his best to comfort them. He was pretty scared too but he didn't want anyone to know.

Dally made everything so much worse by also. losing his mind. He genuinely thought the house would fly away Wizard of Oz style (which it didn't. Thankfully the most damage was a few fallen trees in the street and a LOT of trash in everyone's yards). But he really started to reevaluate his life choices in that bathroom 💀

Steve was frustrated with the situation since the tornado "wasn't even that bad 😡" (but Darry would NOT let him outside. Lol).

Two-bit. got tired of the howling wind and the awkward silence so he started singing and joking around. He was kinda drunk anyway so the tornado didn't bother him too much (and his antics DID end up making Johnny and Pony laugh so it worked out).

[cainluvr69]

Surely, We Can Make Miracles Chapter 26

Previous Chapter

Hwylryn: …Balthazar…Balthazar…!

Mithra: … Is there a point in continuing our fight if that person has turned to stone?

Hwylryn: …

Mithra: Let's be done. This is enough for tonight…

Hwylryn: Mithra…

Mithra: …Hey, Hwylryn. Isn't this enough?

✦✧☾✧✦

Arthur: We need to stop that light, or something terrible is going to befall Borda Island!

Murr: We need to get back to the island to intercept it! Oz…!

Oz: Wait.

Oz was staring at the ends of the sky, and then turned his gaze to Mithra.

Oz: Mithra!

For a moment I'd wondered if he'd heard him, but then Mithra looked down at Oz. He was so far off, I couldn't tell what expression he was making.

Oz: I will kill him.

Mithra: …

Oz: We do not have enough time to wait until dawn.

Mithra: …What are you talking about?

Oz: You need not do it with your own hands!

Mithra: …

Mithra silently looked back at Hwylryn. I couldn't see his face, but I could still tell he was bewildered. Hwylryn's huge mouth moved a bit, as if trying to tell Mithra something. Whatever it was Mithra heard, his head fell heavily for a moment, until he looked up again. A strange light began to gather in his crystal skull, though he didn't take his gaze off Hwylryn even for a moment. And Hwylryn flexed his claws and bared his fangs. A blizzard kicked up around them. It was the same snow that fell upon their homeland.

Mithra: Oz. Don't start saying things as stupid as that. I know where my prey is.

Mithra laughed. For a moment, Oz's expression turned bitter. He gripped my hand and examined my face, trying to ascertain what was in my heart.

Oz: I will stop Balthazar's attack. We will depart from here and return to the island. …Is that alright?

But before I could respond, Hwylryn and Mithra, clad in light so harsh it hurt to look at, dove down into my line of sight. I didn't think I'd be able to forget that sight for as long as I lived.

Akira: Yes.

Oz squeezed my hand tightly. I kept my grip on his hand firm, too. I needed to make sure he knew what was in my heart.

Oz: <Vox Nox>

✦✧☾✧✦

Nero: …! Hey, somethin's comin' this way outta the ocean!

Bradley: That ain't good… We need t' intercept it!

Mitile: Okay!

Riquet: Look! There's a dragon in the sky…!

Mitile: I see Mithra, too…!

Oz: <Vox Nox>

Riquet: …! Oz…!

Arthur: Riquet!

Riquet: Prince Arthur! And Shylock's here and okay, too!

Shylock: Yes, I am. My apologies for worrying you.

Mitile: My brother and Cain are okay, too! And Lord Snow, and Chloe and Rustica, and all of the other Eastern wizards, too!

Arthur: Thank goodness!

Murr: We can get all emotional later! It's almost here…! <Eanul Lambru>!

Shylock: <Inviebelle>!

Bradley: <Adnopotensum>!

Nero: <Adnodis Omnis>!

Riquet: <Sunrotea Edif>!

Mitile: <Scintilla>!

Arthur: <Pernoctant Nixzo>!

Oz: <Vox Nox>!

Everyone brandished their magical focuses, chanting their spells in unison. A swell of pale light burst forth, wrapping itself around us in an effort to stop the red light from the sea. Its force dwindled, just a bit. But not enough to stop it. Mermaids and dolphins poked their faces out from the waves, having noticed the path the red light was taking. Vivid blue lightning arced across the sky, silhouetting Hwylryn and Mithra's fight in black-and-white snapshots.

Akira: (At this rate, Borda Island will…!)

✦✧☾✧✦

Heathcliff: …! Mr. Faust, look!

Faust: What is it?

Heathcliff: There's something that looks like a dragon in the distance, that way!

Shino: I can feel something dangerous approaching us, too…

Figaro: …

Snow: …Fear not… We will have everything under control…

Faust: "We"…?

Figaro: Then, Lord Snow…?

Snow: …Hoho… I found him… Come back to me, White. <Noscomnia>

Figaro: …! Lord White…!

Snow: Let us speak as one. One, two…

Snow & White: <Noscomnia>

Heathcliff: Lord White!

Shino: Thank goodness! I'm happy for you, Snow!

Snow: You came back, dearest White.

White: You brought me back, dearest Snow.

Snow & White: We are one. In life, in death, and forever after--we are one.

Figaro: …Whew… Things are finally back to what I'm used to…

White: Is that Hwylryn?

Snow: Yes, it is. But he's not what we need to be worrying about right now. Spirits from the bottom of the sea are on their way to sink this island.

White: We'll stop them.

Snow: Oh yes, we'll stop them.

Figaro: Thank you, you two!

White: Hoho. All of you can wait right here. Let's be off, my dearest Snow!

Snow: Let's be off, my dearest White!

Snow & White: <Noscomnia>!

✦✧☾✧✦

Arthur: …ghh… It's too strong, we can't…!

Oz: …If only the sun would rise…

Oz took a long look at the sky--still dark and full of stars. The red light was carving its way towards Borda Island, slowly but very, very surely.

Akira: (Was I not focused enough?!) (I need to stop thinking about Hwylryn…) (…I can't. I can't do that.) (Not when he's right there in front of me.)

Shylock: Master Sage! Look…!

Akira: Huh…? Ah…! Snow! White!

Sacrificium: …!

Akira: You brought Saku-chan, too…!

Snow: Ohoho! Sorry for making you wait!

White: Ohoho! Sorry for making you worry!

Oz: White…

Arthur: Lord White! I'm so glad you're okay…!

Bradley: Heh. Cheatin' death again, huh? We need you to get to work, so don't get too comfortable!

White: I'm well aware! Now, dear Snow…

Snow & White: <Noscomnia>!

Mitile: …! The red light is getting smaller…!

Arthur: We only need a little more! Let's do this!

A small fleck of light joined with the wave of magic pushing back the relentless red onslaught. More little sparks joined the first, their number increasing bit by bit. I thought that seemed strange, so I looked back over my shoulder. And there they were: the wizards that we'd met in the island market.

Market Wizard: We're here to help.

Market Wizard: We heard the details from the little miss, the new lord. She said they might try sinking the island!

Market Wizard: This island's our livelihood.

Market Wizard: We've gotta put in the effort to protect our home ourselves!

Akira: Thank you, all of you…

Market Wizard: And it's not just us wizards showing up, either! The humans are putting their boats to sea, getting ready for whatever happens!

Market Wizard: Master Sage! Let's all put our backs into it and protect this island together!

Nero: You guys…

Bradley: We've got some serious backbone on display here. Alright, then I'll step up, too. Time to get ourselves in sync!

Owen: Oh, you think you get to take charge?

Bradley: Man, don't argue! Let's do this! Three, two, one…!

At Bradley's command, the wizards in attendance all strengthened their spells. The sparks from the market wizards, the mere flickers of light, turned the wave of my wizards' magic into something bigger, something brighter--something that could gently embrace the spirits that threatened to destroy their home. Embraced by light, the spirits' dreadful red glow slowly weakened, losing force as it faded away. Soon, there was nothing left on the other side but the clear sky, awaiting dawn. And then… The red light that Balthazar had called from the depths of the ocean glittered and vanished into the blue waves.

Mitile: Yes…!

Riquet: We've protected the island…!

All the wizards in attendance, both Sage's wizards and those from the market, started shouting and cheering happily. And then… I thought I heard someone say my name.

—Akira.

Akira: …

I turned and looked up at the sky. I heard Mithra's voice on this aerial stage, backed by the gentle glow of dawn's first light.

Mithra: <Arthim>

It was such a beautiful morning. Blue and red extended off into infinity, past the gentle curve of the horizon, a sash tied neatly around the circumference of the world. Under that beautiful sky, a gem resplendent with all the colors of the rainbow shattered, its crystals raining down upon the sea. They fell into the water, plip, plop, the inauspicious sound of rain heralding those rainbow gems' descent into the depths of the sea. It was a beautiful sight. One better suited for a dream. The mermaids and dolphins watched the crystal rain with a solemnity typically reserved for prayers. And I…knew that I'd just lost a friend.

✦✧☾✧✦

Borda Island Resident: What just happened…?! Did the wizards over the ocean save us…?

Borda Island Resident: Ah… Look… There's gemstones falling into the water…

Borda Island Resident: You're right… …It's so pretty… It's the kind of thing they write songs about… Like the one about the lost prince's legacy… The rain of jewels…

✦✧☾✧✦

Akira: …

Arthur: Master Sage…

Oz: …

Arthur was looking at me, worry clear on his face. I knew that he was worried and yet, I couldn't get my tears to stop falling. All I could think about was my beloved Hwylryn's innocent smile. The way he spoke so cheerfully.

—Do you want some too, Akira? —It's a promise. —I'm glad we met.

Mithra: …

Mithra was staring at something in the palm of his hand. Hwylryn's stone. He turned and looked at me and then, saying nothing, stepped through one of his doors through space and vanished. I didn't know where he went. And, just like that, the strange incidents plaguing Borda Island were over.

✦✧☾✧✦

Dianne: Master Sage, I sincerely apologize for all the trouble I have caused. And I must thank you as well for saving Borda Island from its imminent catastrophe.

Dianne was very grateful once we returned to the castle. It felt a little bit like the air around her had changed somehow. Before, she'd had a powerful and commanding presence, if an overly rigid one, but now her smiles felt…genuine.

Dianne: I deeply troubled everyone in the castle, and the townspeople as well… I plan on restarting my studies from the beginning to try and avoid doing this again.

Castle Butler: Lord Dianne, are you certain about reinstalling the magical technological oven in the kitchen?

Dianne: Yes. Yes, it's just fine. It's something that needs to be done if I ever want the former head chef to return to his position here.

Castle Butler: I'm sure he will, your Lordship.

Dianne: Thank you… When that time comes, Master Sage, please come visit Borda Island again. We will be eagerly awaiting you!

Dianne smiled a bright and carefree smile. The expressions of all the castle servants seemed more at ease now, too.

Claudia: Master Sage, I'd be delighted if you could return to be Dianne's companion again.

And Claudia was also kind and friendly with us to the very end of our visit. She'd said she'd known Vincent a long time ago, but hearing her stories would have to wait until next time, too.

✦✧☾✧✦

Heathcliff: Goodbye, Vespa. Thank you so much for everything.

Vespa: …

Shino: Hey, she's holding something. Put your hand out for her, Heath.

Heathcliff: What is it? Woah, what pretty shells… You're giving all of these to me?

Vespa: ……

Shino: That's a lot of nodding. Yep, they're all yours.

Heathcliff: Thank you. Let's see, which one should I give to Shino…

Shino: Are you stupid? You don't know the first thing about a girl's heart.

Heathcliff: I…don't think that's true.

Shino: Are you for real? Man, I just know blood's gonna get spilled over you in the human part of the world.

Heathcliff: Don't say scary things like that! Thank you so much, Vespa. I'm pretty good at detailed craftwork, so I'll make you a new accessory for the next time we meet. Like that barrette you're wearing.

Vespa: …! …!

Shino: Ahaha! Look how happy she is! If she keeps smacking the water with her tail like that, she's gonna splash us.

Heathcliff: Ahaha. I'm just happy she's happy. Well then, I'll see you again sometime, Vespa.

✦✧☾✧✦

Lennox: I'm sorry for troubling you, Lord Faust…

Faust: No, you didn't do anything of the sort. If you want to say thanks to someone, you should be thanking the others…

Lennox: …

Faust: … This incident has made me reflect on a few things. You have a very strong heart. The fact that you could get possessed like that despite that strength must mean that my…halfhearted demeanor towards you made you falter.

Lennox: …

Faust: So I want to say it again. I have no intention of being happy, and because of that, there isn't a place for you at my side. But…if I were to want something similar to happiness, even just a little bit… I'd want to be able to watch over you being happy. That's all I'd want.

Lennox: Lord Faust… … My happiness is…

Faust: Yes…?

Lennox: My happiness is your happiness.

Faust: …

Lennox: If you can't be happy, Lord Faust, then I can't be happy, either.

Faust: But… You… I…

Lennox: Never.

Figaro: Both of you are so stubborn…

✦✧☾✧✦

Riquet: I learned a lot from this incident. In particular, I now understand just how difficult it is to act as a guide to the people.

Mitile: Yeah.

Rutile: I've learned the same thing from teaching. Trying to gather all my students and their different views and lead all of them is a really difficult thing to do.

Riquet: Yes. For instance, Mitile.

Mitile: Huh, what?

Riquet: If the path that I wanted to lead you down and the path that Rutile wanted to lead you down were different, whose guidance would you follow?

Mitile: Wh--what?!

Riquet: Incidentally, I'd want you to pick my side.

Mitile: That's… Um, well, I… I-I'd want to make my decision based off what you both want from me, instead of just picking you or Rutile.

Rutile: Wonderful. That's a good path for you to take, Mitile.

Mitile: Riquet, would you listen to me if I was the one guiding you?

Riquet: The other way around…?

Mitile: Hehe… Watch out, I might get strict with you.

Riquet: That's kind of exciting, actually.

Mitile: Exciting…?

Riquet: Please let me follow your guidance when we have the chance.

Mitile: I'll do my best!

Rutile: Ahaha! The two of you get along so well. You know, it's almost time for us to go back to the manor, but I haven't seen Mithra anywhere.

Riquet: I wonder if he already returned to the manor without us.

Rutile: Maybe… I hope he's doing okay…

✦✧☾✧✦

Arthur: The Sage doesn't seem to be doing very well right now…

Oz: …This is true…

Arthur: I'm worried about you too, Lord Oz…

Oz: … I want to see…you talking, eating, sleeping, laughing… For another thousand days.

Arthur: … We do still have to contend with <the Great Calamity>, Lord Oz.

Oz: I suppose we do…

Arthur: I'm very happy to have you watching over me. But I'd like to have the chance to watch over you, too. I recently asked Lords Snow and White if they know if you've been getting enough sleep these days.

Oz: So that was your doing…

Arthur: It's quite nice here in the sunlight. Why don't you lay down and take a nap? I'll be right here to protect you.

Oz: Haha… So the opposite of how it has been until now.

Arthur: Ahaha! Yeah, I suppose it is.

Oz: <Vox Nox>

Arthur: Woah, a bed.

Oz: It is daytime. Such a triviality is of no consequence.

Arthur: Alright, time to lay down… Rolling around on a fluffy bed surrounded by sand and sea, listening to the sound of the ocean breeze, feels awfully decadent…

Oz: It does…

Arthur: The sun feels so nice…

Oz: It does…

Arthur: … …zzz…zzz…

Oz: … You must have been exhausted… … I never tire of seeing you so at ease.

✦✧☾✧✦

Chloe: You did soooo much this time, Rustica! It was rough, but I wanna say job well done!

Rustica: Why thank you, Chloe.

Chloe: But I think you should learn how to swim just in case we have to fight underwater again.

Rustica: You have a point. However, I am already fond of myself, unable to swim though I am.

Chloe: I'm already fond of you, too! And so… Tada! I found something just for this.

Rustica: And what would that be?

Chloe: Leather boots that'll keep you super buoyant! I even altered them to fit your legs better. Come on, try them on!

Rustica: Why thank you again, Chloe. Let's see… Like this?

Chloe: They suit you perfectly! Okay, now try walking on top of the water!

Rustica: Alright. I'll give it my best shot. Without further ado… …glub blub blub…!

Chloe: Wahh! The boots are floating, but Rustica's sinking!

Rustica: <Amores Viesse>

Chloe: Rustica, are you okay?!

Rustica: …gasp… Yes, I'm fine. These boots are a bit frightening, however.

Chloe: They areeee! I'll come up with something else!

Rustica: I shall eagerly await your next idea.

✦✧☾✧✦

Cain: How about you be done here?

Owen: Excuse me? I can eat however much I want to.

Cain: Well, I guess so, but… Either way, you really are strong, huh. I was really impressed by how fast you can think on your feet while watching you fight that dragon.

Owen: You do the same when you have a sword in your hands, Sir Knight. But you did only just start using magic, so it's only natural you'd think that.

Cain: I guess so… By the way, why did you turn yourself into Natalie?

Owen: Who?

Cain: The lady you turned yourself into. With the black hair and kind of sexy vibes? Sounds like she was scamming rich folks. They said it was a good thing you identified her.

Owen: Hmph.

Cain: Oh, you've got some coconut on your face. Let me get that.

Owen: Hah?

Cain: I think I'll get a refill on my coffee. Do you want anything to drink? I wonder if there's anything like drinking sweet cream?

Owen: Hah?

Cain: Excuse me. Can I add to our order?

Owen: Don't treat me like you would Riquet.

Cain: Riquet eats way more neatly than you do. Let's see, can we get a coffee, and… What did you want?

Owen: Hot chocolate.

Cain: Won't torta di cocco plus hot chocolate be kind of overwhelming?

Owen: I'm the type to open my trunk when overwhelmed.

Cain: Hmm, well, I guess I'm the type to push my body to the limit, too.

Owen: What? What does that mean?

Cain: A coffee and a hot chocolate, please.

✦✧☾✧✦

Bradley: Good grief. They really made me work this time.

Nero: Hey, Brad… I've got somethin' I wanna talk to you about.

Bradley: Nn?

Nero: 'Bout Figaro and the twins.

Bradley: Oh, yeah…

Nero: You wanna take care of 'em yourself, right? Or should I take the honors if I get the chance?

Bradley: You can't do it on your own. So obviously I'm gonna be doin' it. If you're alone, don't lay a hand on 'em.

Nero: Izzat right…

Bradley: But hey, we're only gonna be goin' after 'em once we beat <the Great Calamity>, yeah?

Nero: …! Damn, I almost forgot…

Bradley: Are you kiddin' me… Can't believe this is the kinda thing you get hasty about…

Nero: Th…that ain't true!

Bradley: Sure it is. But that's why you're my number two. You can be pretty damn scary when you want, Nero. You had the new recruits tremblin' like a leaf. Well, y'sure made me popular with them instead. Heh.

Nero: Now that ain't true. Sorry, but I was way more popular with the new meat than you were.

Bradley: No, I was.

Nero: I'm tellin' ya, it was me.

Bradley: Me.

Nero: It was me.

✦✧☾✧✦

Sacrificium: …

Shylock: …I see… So that's what happened between you and that sea dragon, Master Sage…

Akira: …Yeah… I… …I'm sorry, I'm still… I can't really get the words out…

Shylock: You don't need to force yourself to say anything. Simply being at your side like this lets me know what you're thinking. I've spent quite a long time doing just that… I'm quite proud of that ability.

Akira: …Thank you… …I think…I hurt Hwylryn…

Shylock: Why's that?

Akira: …I had Mithra bring torta di cocco for him. I thought he'd be happy to get it and want to listen to what we had to say, but… …But yesterday, we promised we'd go get some together… I broke our promise… Instead, I took advantage of it to try and negotiate with him… I thought giving him cake would make him happy, I thought I could talk to him, I thought he'd understand where we were coming from…I was being so shallow… …I feel like I…walked all over Hwylryn's feelings, even though I was trying to treasure them…

Shylock: That's not true. I'm sure he understood that you were thinking of him, and that your actions were the result of careful consideration on your part, even if you lacked the words for it. He was a very clever dragon, after all.

Akira: …sniff… If you say so…

Shylock: I am sure that he was grateful that you never gave up on being his friend… I am sure you made him happy.

Akira: …sniffle… …Thank you…

Shylock: I have also…found myself wishing I could have spoken with Balthazar under better circumstances.

Akira: Why did he kidnap you like that?

Shylock: Perhaps it sounds a bit presumptuous given I'm the one saying it, but he was attracted to me.

Akira: Attracted?

Shylock: Yes. I, who could do what he hadn't been able to, sparkled in his eyes the way a hero does. To be attracted to someone in such a way puts the idea that you're "lesser" than them into your head. But that adoration mixes poorly with Northern pride. He couldn't separate it from his envy, his hatred, his possessiveness, or his desire to "conquer" me. Northern wizards aren't the only ones who go through these sorts of things. It can happen to the rest of us, and even humans as well. When one's emotions get all mixed up like that, it can be difficult to make out what is what, like a half-finished painting…

Akira: …Losing track of your feelings…

Shylock: It's very important to keep things neat and tidy in one's own heart, just as in one's own room, so that you do not lose track of such important things. We are just as liable to have our souls shatter to pieces as a certain someone was.

Akira: That's right… How did Murr help you, Shylock? I mean, back when Adams Island sank…

Shylock: Why, he didn't. He was so wrapped up in his research he didn't notice the huge mess I'd gotten wrapped up in at all.

Akira: R…really? Then how did you escape the island?

Shylock: Balthazar simply released me. He didn't kill me. I was what he wanted so badly, after all. I imagine he didn't want to see the world with that desire of his shattered to pieces.

Akira: … That makes sense…

Chloe: Master Saaaage! We're gonna go home soooon!

Akira: Okay…! (Mithra…never came back…) (When we get the time, I want to…) (I want to talk to Mithra about Hwylryn a bit more.)

The sound of the waves drew my eyes back to the sea. I thought about the world of endless blue that surrounded that undersea city. The place that had once been Adams Island. I imagined Hwylryn, Mithra, and myself walking down its stone steps. In a world where Adams Island had never been destroyed. In a world where we were just…people, walking down its streets and waiting to meet up with each other. In that world, I'm sure I would've kept my promise. And we'd be chatting and laughing happily. Beneath the endless blue sky.

✦✧☾✧✦

Shylock: … Welco…

Murr: Shylock!

Shylock: …

Murr: Wheeze…wheeze… …cough…! …Huh?

Shylock: …What's wrong? Did you catch a cold?

Murr: No, I flew here on my broom… Cough…wheeze…! …Adams Island…

Shylock: Oh, yes. You finally heard about that? All of that went down a month ago. And Professor Murr Hart was wrapped up in his work the whole time. Even the City of Nectar itself feels awfully neglected.

Murr: … Are you…

Shylock: Are you asking about how I fared with Balthazar? Don't tell me you came all the way here just because you were worried about me?

Murr: Haha. Of course not.

Shylock: Of course not. Was it because you were worried about your laboratory on Adams Island, then? Unfortunately, it's at the bottom of the sea now. I certainly hope you had notes on all your research materials.

Murr: Well, I have enough. I've still almost certainly lost some things, though.

Shylock: That's good to hear. Now, what would you like to drink?

Murr: …Just water, for now…

Shylock: Water? You?

Murr: No, give me my usual. …cough, cough… …I changed my mind…water…

Shylock: What a strange person you are…

✦✧☾✧✦

Snow: Gwawlyn! Hwylryn! Let's play!

White: Gwawlyn! Hwylryn! Let's play!

Snow: We love you! Gwawlyn! Hwylryn!

White: Gwawlyn! Hwylryn! Let's play again sometime!

Snow & White: Waaahhh! We loooost!

Snow: We hate you! Gwawlyn! Hwylryn!

White: We're never playing with you again! Gwawlyn! Hwylryn!

✦✧☾✧✦

Snow: Gwawlyn! Hwylryn! Let's play!

White: Gwawlyn! Hwylryn! Let's play!

Snow & White: Yaaaay! We woooon!

Snow: We love you! Gwawlyn! Hwylryn!

White: Gwawlyn! Hwylryn! Let's play again sometime!

Snow: Gwawlyn…?

White: Gwawlyn, dear?

✦✧☾✧✦

Mithra: …Hey, Hwylryn. Isn't this enough?

Hwylryn: Mithra. Just because I left the North doesn't change the fact that I was born there. There's nothing more humiliating than being told I'm not worth killing by someone who's acknowledged my strength.

Mithra: …

Hwylryn: Akira decided they're the Sage. Because they treasure all of you.

Mithra: …

Hwylryn: So, what will you do?

✦✧☾✧✦

Dianne: Master Sage, and all the Sage's wizards! Please take care…!

Claudia: Come visit us again sometime!

Akira: Yes! We will!

People waved at us from the ground as we sat astride our brooms--well, I sat astride one of the wizards' brooms. Even the Borda Island townspeople looked up and waved at us as we passed them by. The dazzlingly blue sky and glittering silver clouds reminded me of his white scales. The sound of the ocean breeze suited the sight of white-tipped waves on the horizon. And in the interstice of sea and sky hung the moon--big, white, radiant. <The Great Calamity>. That which had woven the first link in our bonds. The day of our fight against it, one with the fate of the world lying in the balance… Was coming ever closer.

[zriviepotions]

Superior Blizzard

2 oz sea buckthorn-inflused gin*

2/3 oz myrtle-calendula simple syrup**

1/4 oz lemon juice

3-4 dashes fee brothers foam OR 1 egg white

4-5 drops mossy mushroom bitters***

Pinch of blue spirulina

Pinch of green edible glitter

Tonic

Combine gin, simple syrup, lemon juice, fee foam, blue spirulina, and glitter in a shaker. Shake with ice for ~1 minute and strain liquid into glass. When there is only foam left in the shaker, add mossy mushroom bitters and shake for a few more seconds before straining the foam into the glass. Top with tonic.

*combine ~1tbsp dried sea buckthorn berries and ~8oz of your favourite gin in a jar. Let sit for 4-5 days, shaking occasionally.

**combine ½ c water and ½ c sugar in a small saucepan. 2-3 tablespoons dried calendula petals and 1-2 tablespoons dried myrtle leaves. Heat on medium-high until sugar is dissolved, then turn off heat and let it sit covered for a  few hours.

***I don’t have exact measurements for this, but here’s the basic gist; Start with 151 proof spirit and add a 10-mushroom powder blend, oakmoss, usnea, and cedar wood shavings. Let it infuse for 2-3 weeks, shaking daily. Strain, bottle, and done!

I’m really excited about the way these mossy mushroom bitters turned out! For some reason I just love anything that tastes like a wet forest. The sea buckthorn and myrtle give this a nice bright flavor to balance out the wet forest undertone xx

[gliyerabaa]

....can you do 2? For that angry confession prompt?

HELL YEAH I CAN BROTHER.

2. “I can’t leave you alone for one second without you hurting yourself, can I?” “I mean, I’m fine so it’s okay—” “No, it’s not okay. Not when I feel like I’m going to go bat-shit fucking crazy, thinking you’ve hurt yourself.“

----

this is perfect because I have actually been dabbling around in the idea of an AU where glinda does go with elphaba, becoming a medic/healer for the resistance.... this is a chance to play in that world

(ALF acronym used with permission of @funghifungi) (Go read All is Fair right now its such a good fic)

I will take a slight creative liberty with the dialogue, I think, but the spirit of the prompt will surely be there, probably.

trigger warnings for mild descriptions of blood and injuries

so, without further ado, here we go...

----

Glinda bites her lip, worried beyond belief. Elphaba should have been back hours ago. It's getting dark, it's started to snow, and she worries deeply for Elphaba's safety.

The cottage they live in is little more then a temporary home, a place of refuge until they are discovered again. She lights a candle in each window, knowing that they are a beacon for friend and foe alike. It's worth the risk, she figures, knowing that it's the only way her Elphie will get home safely.

Glinda gazes out the window, where a vaguely humanoid shadow lumbers forward in the growing blizzard. She reaches for the dagger she keeps at her hip, tightening her grip on the weapon, should she have to defend herself.

The door opens, slamming against the wall with the force of the wind, and the figure illuminated in candlelight is all edges and bones, so very distinctly Elphaba. Breathing a sigh of relief, Glinda sheathes her blade, stepping forward to greet her wife.

Elphaba collapses in her arms.

"Elphie!" Glinda shrieks, sagging under the weight of her companion's limp form. Carefully, she guides Elphaba to the bed, then moves to close the door, shutting out the freezing cold. She gathers her spellbook and her medical supplies and puts a kettle over the fire, preparing for what is sure to be a long night of caring for Elphaba after whatever reckless mess she'd gotten herself into this time.

"Glinda..." Elphaba murmurs from the bed.

Glinda rushes to her side immediately, "What have you done this time, you idiot?"

"I'm fine," Elphaba coughs. There is blood on her face, and her skin is flushed from exposure to the cold, "Really, I am."

"Did you liberate the Animal camp, like you'd set out to do?"

"No," Elphaba replies, shivering even under two woolen blankets, "The mobilized unit of the ALF strike force was intercepted just north of the camp, and I couldn't save them. They were all either captured or shot."

Glinda carefully slides Elphaba's arm out of the sleeve of her shirt. The fabric clings wetly to a thick, bleeding gash. "And you were caught in the crossfire, weren't you?"

"Yeah..." Elphaba averts her gaze, not wanting to look at her own wounds as they mend themselves under Glinda's magic.

"I really can't let you go anywhere without you coming back hurt."

"This isn't about what you want, Glinda, it's about Animal liberation, it's about making Oz a place where everyone can exist in peace." Glinda winces at the remark, "Besides, I'm fine, thanks to you, so it's okay--"

"It's not okay!" Glinda snaps, taken aback by the edge in her own voice, "Every time you leave on one of your little crusades, I'm left here, worrying myself sick, wondering if this will be the time you won't come back!"

"Glin, this is something so much bigger than ourselves. You joined this fight for the same reason I did, you should know that--"

"I joined for you." Glinda says plainly.

"... What?"

"Don't get me wrong," Glinda sighs, "I care about Animals and I care about justice and I really do want a better world, but..."

"But?! There is no 'but', either you're in this fight or you aren't!"

"Elphie, just listen to me!"

A log in the fireplace crackles. Glinda can hear the water in the kettle reaching a boil. She needs to get this off her chest now, before tea.

"When you asked me to come with you, I said yes. Because I couldn't bear the thought of leaving your side. I married you because I wanted you to be mine forever, until death do us part. I didn't anticipate you going out and seeking death-"

"I'm not seeking death."

"You certainly aren't shying away from it! I swear, I'm having to patch you up at least once a week because you're just too damn reckless!"

Elphaba doesn't respond. From across the room, the tea kettle whistles, an annoyingly high pitched squeal only adding to Glinda's nerves.

"I love you, Elphie," Glinda says as she stands up, putting an end to the conversation that they have so frequently. It only ever involves talking in the same circles, spiraling in on each other, usually devolving into desperate, messy loving. "Now. What kind of tea would you like?"

[help-an-alter]

on behalf of an fact introject in our sys whos source is very problematic and they want to separate,

they are looking for some names,, i hope thats okay!

they want Glitch themes, flora themes, abstract themes, painting/art themes, animal themes, puppet themes, pink/blue/purple themes,, and they're non binary but they dont mind fem or masc.

thank you!

hi anon ! mod firefly here ! we'd be happy to help ,,, we'll try and stick to neutral names :3 they're separated by theme just to make things a bit easier (mainly for us tbh)

glitch themed ,,,

Zyto, Lyric, Zip, Bender, Pluto

flora themed ,,,

Flor, Fleur, Dahlia, Alyssum, Dianthus, Delphinium, Rye, Rowan, Juniper, Calyx, Cassava, Agave, Aloe, Vera

painting / art themed ,,,

Michaelangelo, Donatello, Leonardo, DaVinci, Dali, Salvedor, Edward, Austin, Abbey, Rembrandt, van Gogh, Picasso

animal themed ,,,

Fawn, Fauna, Tiger, Lyon / Lion / Lione / Lyone / Lyonne, Mouse, Cobra, Starling, Lynx, Tawny

puppet themed ,,,

Henson, Shari, Lewis, Oz, Frank, Richard, Hunt, Goelz, Dave, Burr, Tillstrom, Brian, Henson, Eren, Ozker

pink themed ,,,

Magenta, Rose, Fuschia, Orchid, Coral, BubbleGum, Watermelon, Congo, Strawberry

purple themed ,,,

Violet, Amethyst, Indigo, Mauve, Lavender, Lilac, Plum, Mulberry, Byzanthium, Liserian, Phlox, Carmine

blue themed ,,,

Cobalt, Periwinkle, Oxford, CornFlower, Cerulean, Sapphire, Alice, Bleu, Maya, Tiffany, Blizzard

I hope these help them !!! (and i hope it was enough we had a lot of fun finding all the different themes !!!!)

[tumbleweed-palmer]

The Big Talk: Jimmy Palmer X Reader

This was started for the summer bingo and I just now found the time to actually finish it. This was supposed to fulfill the cop, lost, and car squares. Some slightly smutty moments towards the end so Minors DNI please.

A wrong turn and a flat tire during a bad snowstorm forces Jimmy and Y/N to have a talk they've both been avoiding.

===========

Jimmy couldn’t stop the low groan from escaping his lips, doing his best to peer through the wet smeared windshield, silently cursing his poor choice in buying a lower quality windshield wiper fluid. It seemed the fluid was aiding in doing more smearing than wiping.

He really hadn’t been prepared for the weather to turn so quickly and so drastically.

The snowy weather was making an already awful day ten times worse.

He took a quick glance beside him at the woman sitting on the passenger’s seat, the words spilling from his lips before he could stop himself. “I’m so sorry. I can’t believe I’m such an idiot.”

She shook her head knowing this was the third time he’d uttered those words in the past hour. “You aren’t an idiot, Jimmy, it's fine. It happens to the best of us.”

Jimmy let out a heavy sigh shaking his head as he replied. “I just can’t believe I not only missed our turn but I’ve managed to drive so far before I even realized it. We’re who even knows how many miles away from where we need to be and I can’t see a thing out of this windshield. I’m the one who offered to carpool and I managed to get us so lost. I don’t even see a turn off to get back to where we need to be. I can’t believe this is a one way road. I don’t even see an exit sign to any towns. All I’ve seen for miles is woods.”

“It’s okay, it’s really no big deal.” she responded, reaching out and giving his arm a gentle pat.

Jimmy let out another sigh, unable to let it go. “It’s all because of this stupid weather. It’s interfering with the cell towers. I mean, my sense of direction isn’t great to begin with…but the weather is making the GPS go down and I think the snow is getting worse. I can’t believe I got us turned around so easily and we’ve been lost for hours without me even realizing it.”

He paused another sigh escaping his lips. “I wish we would have just been able to get some motel rooms for the night. No one should be driving in this. Look at the road. It’s practically a blizzard out here. We are literally the only ones out driving in this mess.”

She let out a soft laugh giving his arm another pat. “Bold of you to assume NCIS would reimburse us for a motel.”

The comment did manage to put a slight smile on Jimmy’s lips, the corners of his lips upturning despite the guilt and embarrassment still swirling in his gut. 

He managed to speak a small cynical laugh leaving him. “True, I don’t think we’re high enough on the NCIS foodchain to get any sort of travel budget..even if the defense insisted that Meyer couldn’t get a fair trial in DC or Norfolk even.”

He paused a small frustrated sigh leaving him. “It wouldn’t be so bad if we actually got anything done today. I can’t believe we sat in that courthouse all afternoon just to be told that the trial was going to be pushed back.”

She nodded her head, a soft sigh leaving her. “Who would have thought that every JAG lawyer meant to represent our side today would have eaten a bad batch of shellfish.”

Jimmy shook his head rolling his eyes ever so slightly. “I still can’t believe the defense insisted that the trial needed to take place all the way out here in the sticks. I know Meyer has the right to a fair trial, but this is ridiculous. We drove all this way in the middle of a winter storm, and now we’re going to have to drive all the way out here again in two weeks.”

She nodded her head taking a sip from the 20 oz bottle of soda she’d grabbed with the measly dinner they’d managed to grab after they’d left the courthouse. She spoke as she placed the bottle back in the cupholder. “I know, it makes it ten times more frustrating that it is for someone like Meyer.”

She paused thinking of the petty officer that had been taken in the year before. The guy was pure scum, but even scum got a day in court.

She adjusted her seatbelt giving Jimmy a small smile. “For what it’s worth, I can think of a lot worse people to have to carpool out to the sticks in the middle of a snowstorm with. At least we have the drive together.”

Jimmy couldn’t deny the way his heart lifted at the comment. How could one little comment from her make his heart swoon?

He often felt his heart swoon when it came to Y/N Y/L/N.

It had been that way since she’d been hired.

They’d all been in shock when Abby had admitted she wanted to hire an assistant, but there were going to be some terms and conditions of course. She had a bad go with her last assistant. So, if she was going to finally admit she could use a little help she was going to be the one doing the interview process. An assistant would only be hired on Abby’s terms.

Y/N had been the lucky hire.

Jimmy was partially sure it was love at first sight for him, if such a thing existed that is.

That feeling of adoration had only grown since the moment he first set his sight on Y/N.

How could he not adore her? She was perfect. If such a thing as perfection existed then Jimmy was sure she was it.

How could he not think of her as the epitome of perfection? She was equally smart, sweet, funny, and pretty. It was a combination that Jimmy Palmer was helpless to resist. 

From their very first introduction in Abby’s lab, Jimmy Palmer knew that he was absolutely screwed.

He’d been down this path before, hopelessly crushing on the pretty girl who saw him as nothing more than a nervous morbid geek. He’d been down this exact road a time or two.

He could remember way back when he’d first realized that pretty girls existed. He’d been a late bloomer of sorts, so shy and awkward for so much of his youth. He’d been pretty late in middle school just about to enter high school when he’d finally begun to notice girls.

 Melanie Jacobs…that had been his very first crush's name. He could still remember exactly what she looked like; big blue eyes and stunning strawberry blonde hair, braces with purple bands on her pearly white teeth, and she smelled like a combination of strawberry scented Teen Spirit deodorant and Bath and Bodyworks Sweetpea body spray.  

He’d been hopelessly enamored with Melanie Jacobs, but she’d not even noticed he existed. That was until she’d become his lab partner in a middle school Biology class…then she’d noticed him. She’d noticed him for all the wrong reasons. 

Jimmy Palmer had recently learned about medical examiners and he’d been a bit too enthusiastic to share this newfound knowledge with Melanie during a dissection of a frog.

Needless to say Melanie Jacobs was less than impressed with Jimmy’s newfound wealth of knowledge.

It had set a horrible pattern for Jimmy Palmer’s interactions with the opposite sex. He shoved his foot in his mouth the second he was faced with any interaction with a pretty girl. He already tended to shove his foot in his mouth in most of his interactions, but the second he was face to face with an attractive girl he became even more hopeless. He turned into a stuttering awkward pathetic klutz who couldn’t shut up. It was a deadly combo. He was an awkward extravert. 

As the years had gone by he’d managed to have a couple of girlfriends by some miracle. 

Jimmy wasn’t totally an absolute loser destined to be alone, but usually when he somehow managed to land a girlfriend it didn’t take him too long to find some way to wreck things. Either his girlfriends grew sick of his clingy tendencies, or his awkward tendencies, or his workaholic tendencies, or his morbid interests. There was something about him that always managed to scare girls away.

This was a particularly worrisome trend given what he’d finally worked up the courage to do a few months back.

He could admit that from the moment Y/N had begun to work at NCIS he’d made it his mission to learn as much about her as possible. He knew that this mission sounded somewhat creepy when he said it outloud. 

He wasn’t stalking her…he just paid a lot of attention to her at work and during nights out with the team…he paid attention to what she liked.

He’d learned a little about her from casual interactions and overheard conversations. She didn’t care for capers or eggplant. She didn’t get the point of drinking espresso. It was just overpriced over-caffeinated tiny coffee shots she insisted. She liked Indian food and always went with the same order but it had to be extra spicy. She preferred fruit flavored candy over chocolate and had a weak spot for Peach Rings. Her favorite color was forest green. She didn’t care for the color turquoise. Her favorite earrings were a small pair of real pearl studs that had been her paternal grandmother’s. She liked wearing dresses more than pants any day of the week. She was tied between loving Halloween and Christmas. She liked horror movies, carving pumpkins, and haunted houses as much as she liked decorating Christmas trees, holiday parties, and making gingerbread houses. She had a couple of sisters and a fairly large extended family, but she didn’t particularly like visiting her hometown as she felt it was far too tiny. She preferred dogs over cats. She liked getting her nails done though she tended to keep them pretty short given she claimed it made wearing gloves in the lab far easier. She wore an Elizabeth Arden perfume called Sunflowers. 

The one piece of information that had helped Jimmy finally work up his nerve to make his move, had been her love of art.

A few months ago he’d made yet another excuse to wander down to the lab when he’d spotted the sketchbook that Y/N had shyly been showing Abby.

The sight of the sketchbook and the realization that it belonged to Y/N had been the one thing that had finally pushed Jimmy to man up and make the move both Dr. Mallard and just about everyone else on the NCIS team had been pushing him to make for so many months now.

He’d felt the words leave his lips before he’d had the nerve to talk himself out of it. “There’s a new art deco exhibit at the Smithsonian Art Museum…uh..there..there’s other art there too, but the art deco exhibit is brand new.”

He’d resisted the urge to slam his palm against his face as Y/N had looked up from her sketchbook, her eyes meeting his, clearly waiting for him to continue.

He knew he was in too deep now to shut up without making things far more awkward. So he’d decided to grow a pair and go for it. “Do you have plans for Saturday? I wanted to go see the exhibit…If you want to go…we could get dinner too, as in a date.”

There’d been an awkward moment of silence, Abby causally excusing herself a knowing smirk on her lips.

Jimmy had felt his heart sink at the silence fearing he’d screwed everything up. He spoke his cheeks flushing a deep shade of pink “That was probably inappropriate…I mean, we’re at work and didn’t we just attend a department wide sexual hasrassment seminar?…that was probably…That was probably a total Tony move…uh can we just pretend that didn’t just happen and accept that I’m a total dork?”

“I don’t think that this constitutes harassment, Jimmy…It wasn’t horribly inappropriate…I mean you aren’t anything like Tony as far as your approach…As far as you being a total dork, I think that’s part of your charm…I  don’t have plans on Saturday. I’d like to go on a date with you.” Y/N had finally spoken, pushing all the insecurities he’d had to the side.

The insecurities hadn’t managed to stay away for long.

They’d gone out on several dates thus far over the past couple of months. They’d even shared a few soft chaste kisses on these past few dates, but the insecurities had remained ever present in Jimmy’s head.

He hated to admit that he was so lost when it came to Y/N. He’d never been the best at navigating his way through the complex inner workings of a romantic relationship.

He liked to think that he was emotionally intelligent. He just had the bad luck of being a bit of an emotional mess who was incapable of not saying the wrong thing at the wrong time. He was never sure what to say or do when it came to actually having a romantic relationship especially with someone who he felt was so out of his league.

The big what are we talk was constantly hanging over his head.

They hadn’t exactly established what this was between them. It had been about two months thus far and they’d gone out on so many dates, but they’d not discussed anything about what these dates meant to them. 

His insecurities told him that Y/N didn’t see these dates as being as serious as he hoped.

How could she see this as being anything serious? A voice in the back of Jimmy’s head taunted him with these doubts. She could probably do so much better than him. She could so find someone who was far less nervous and far less of a human disaster. He knew they were a mismatched pair. She was pretty and cool and he was such a giant geek and somewhat awkward looking as far as he was concerned.

His insecurities screamed that Y/N couldn’t possibly see these dates they’d been having as anything remotely worthy of being an actual romantic relationship. A voice told Jimmy that Y/N saw everything between them as being totally casual. She probably didn’t see it as anything more than them having a little fun. 

Afterall, hadn’t that been the case with Jimmy’s involvement with Michelle Lee the year before? 

Michelle had seen everything between them as just a bit of fun, a way to blow off some steam.

Then again everything with Agent Michelle Lee had been solely sexual. 

Things with Y/N were a bit more PG-rated. They’d done no more than share a few goodnight kisses at her doorstep. 

Jimmy wanted to ask what was happening between Y/N and him. He wanted to man up and have the big relationship talk.

His insecurities kept a firm grip on his tongue though.

He feared to broach the subject because he feared that he wouldn’t like the response he got.

Then again, didn’t Y/N initiate all those goodnight kisses? He didn’t think Y/N was the kind of girl that just kissed a guy without it meaning something.

He didn’t think she was seeing anyone else. Jimmy certainly wasn’t seeing anyone else.

Didn’t all of that point towards this being something serious between them?

Still even with those little clues that this might be something more than casual, his insecurities kept him silent.

To be honest lately he was finding the silence unbearable. 

Not knowing for certain what this was between them was driving him insane.

He hated not knowing but he was terrified of knowing. He wanted to be her boyfriend so badly but he was terrified that she didn’t want him. 

His head was a mess and he had no idea how to even approach the subject and put an end to the torment.

Jimmy frowned, his stomach dropping at an all too clear thumping noise just outside the car, the car jerking ever so slightly. He was unable to ignore the slight pull to the steering wheel, he tightening his grip on it as the car began to swerve to the left side of the road. The icy road made it a bit more difficult to straighten his path. 

Y/N couldn’t stop the slight gasp from leaving her lips as the car jerked roughly Jimmy doing all he could not to fishtail his Acura, the poor little car not managing well on the icy road and the apparent car trouble they were encountering.

Jimmy spoke under his breath, rarely used curse words slipping from his lips. “Shit, Damn it.”

He let out a sigh of relief as he managed to regain control of the car, slowly pulling over to the side of the road and putting the car into park. He flipped on the hazard lights, a soft groan leaving him. “This can’t be happening.”

He glanced over at Y/N, his stomach knotting up as he broke the bad news. “I think we have a flat.”

“Are you sure?” She blurted out adjusting her seatbelt, clearly still trying to calm her racing heart.

Jimmy swallowed a thick lump developing in the back of his throat a condescending voice sounding out in the back of his brain ‘great first he got them lost and he’d managed to get a flat. He was proving himself to be a wonderful driving companion.’

“Yeah I felt a thump back there and I can feel the steering wheel pulling. It’s gotta be a flat. We must have hit a nail or something…who even knows. This road looks like it’s seen better days even without the snow and ice.”

He adjusted his own seatbelt, another groan leaving his lips. “I don’t suppose you have cell service?”

Y/N reached down into the floorboard grasping onto her purse and digging through it for only a moment before she finally located her cell phone. She stared down at her phone, her stomach dropping a frustrated sigh leaving her. “Not even a hint of a bar.”

Jimmy reached down into his suit jacket pocket locating his own phone, a low whine leaving his lips as he glanced down at it. “Same here, no service.”

“So, I guess triple A is out of the question then?” Y/N only half joked trying not to say the quiet part out loud.

They were screwed.

She turned in her seat trying her best to peer through the rear window as Jimmy spoke his heart sinking down into his pelvis. “Nope, no chance of calling for help.”

She shook her head, her own heart sinking. “There’s not a car in sight…it’s getting really dark quickly. It must be the weather. The snow isn’t getting any lighter.”

Jimmy nodded his head, that guilt bubbling up in him all the more. She most likely would never carpool with him ever again. He’d made a real mess of things.

He took a deep breath knowing he had to step up and be the one to fix this. He unfastened his seatbelt turning in his seat to peer down into the back floorboard. “I have a camping lantern somewhere back here. Maybe if I have some light I can go out and at least look at the tire situation.”

He let out a small triumphant noise as he located the lantern grasping onto it as he turned back in his seat. “I think I have a tire iron and a spare in the trunk. I should have a few tools too. It’s not a great spare and the tools are pretty old, but it might be enough to get us a little further up the road. We’re bound to hit a town at some point. If we can find a town we can most likely find a mechanic.”

Y/N stared out the windshield, her stomach turning at the state of the world just outside of the car. “In this weather, when it’s this dark out? Are you sure that’s a good idea?”

Jimmy shook his head determined to be the one to fix this all. He wanted to be Y/N’s boyfriend, well a good boyfriend would step up, fix the flat tire, and get his girlfriend home safely. “What choice do we have? We don’t have cell service.”

Y/N parted her lips wanting to argue that it was far too nasty outside to even attempt to fix a flat but Jimmy didn’t give her a chance he fast to speak he managed to locate his coat putting it on over his court appropriate suit. “Just sit tight. I’m sure I can fix it. There’s no sense in both of us facing the snow.”

She felt her heart sink as Jimmy opened the drivers door, a harsh cool draft spilling in through the open door as he managed to exit the car.

She sighed her head falling back closing her eyes as she tried to calm her nerves. This day couldn’t get any worse.

She bit the inside of her cheek, debating ignoring Jimmy’s insistence that she stay in the car. Perhaps she could at the very least hold the light for him while he changed the tire. He shouldn’t be out there trying to fix this all on his own, not in this weather.

She sighed, opening her eyes and sitting up in her seat. She peered through the darkened windshield, her stomach dropping all the more as she took in the state of the weather. She wasn’t sure if it was all in her head but it looked like the snow was getting heavier.

Yes, it definitely did seem like the snow had gotten worse. She couldn’t ignore the sound of the wind practically howling right outside the car. 

She let out a heavy sigh as she reached down into the floorboard and grasped on to her coat. This was ridiculous. Jimmy couldn’t stay out in this.

She unfastened her seatbelt and shoved her coat on. She double checked that the car was unlocked before she reluctantly opened the passenger’s door.

She kept a tight grip on her coat, holding it closed the best she could as she slowly made her way around the front of the car doing all she could not to slip on the icy road. This was a horrible time to wear heels and a dress. Her black stockings did little to protect her from the chill in the air.

She peered through the darkness, snowfall, and howling wind searching for Jimmy’s form as she neared the rear of the car.

She sighed as she finally spotted him still digging through the trunk the lantern in his hand struggling to light his surroundings.

Y/N managed to speak up, raising her voice over the howling wind. “Jimmy, please get back in the car. This is insane. The snow is getting worse.”

Jimmy jumped a little shocked by her presence. He peered up at her, also struggling to see through the darkness and the storm. The cold damp air was making his glasses fog up and build moisture which made it even harder to see his surroundings. “It’s fine, I’ve got this. Just get back in the car. One of us should at least stay dry. Everything is fine, it shouldn’t take me much longer. I’ve just got to find all my tools. Don’t worry about me.”

Y/N shook her head far too stubborn to give in to his demands. “It’s not fine, it’s freezing out here. Come on, get back in the car. You’re going to catch your death out here. Forget the tire. We just need to wait out the storm.”

Jimmy parted his lips ready to argue with her that he could handle this. He was perfectly capable of handing this. He should be the one to handle this.

Y/N didn’t give him a chance to argue with her. She spoke again, not above begging him. “Please, Jimmy. Just get back in the car and wait this out, please, for me.”

Jimmy felt any stubborn resistance melt at her requests. He shut the trunk they both slowly making their way back to the front of the car moving slowly on the icy road through the chilled wind.

They both let out a heavy sigh as they renentered the car the chill to their bodies not disappearing even when the doors shut out the cold wind.

Jimmy placed the lantern down on the dashboard in front of him he taking his glasses off doing his best to clean them with his tie a low frustrated groan leaving him as the moisture on his glasses smeared along the lenses.

Y/N rubbed her hands together unable to believe how cold and damp she’d gotten from the minimal amount of time she spend outdoors. “It’s so awful out there. I can’t believe it got so nasty so quick.”

Jimmy let out a heavy sigh nodding his head in agreement. “No kidding. It’s a mess.”

He put his glasses back on not entirely satisfied with their cleanness but it was better than nothing.

He stared down at the dash a soft sigh leaving him. “I don’t think I can keep the car running for too long. We need the heat, but who knows how long we’ll be out here. I don’t want to add an empty tank onto a flat tire.”

“Were you able to get a look at the tire?” Y/N asked cringing at the bad news about the heating situation.

Jimmy nodded his head, his throat growing tight guilt bubbling up in his gut once again. “The tire is shredded. I have no idea what we ran over but the tire is a disaster. I couldn’t get a good look at it to see if whatever we ran over was still embedded in the tire or not.”

Y/N sighed nodding her head in understanding, she still rubbing her hands together trying her best to warm her skin. Her fingers felt frozen solid. “Why do I feel like this is going to be a long night.”

Jimmy swallowed the lump in his throat trying all he could to shove down the guilt. “I think our chances of catching a good samaritan out on the road tonight are slim. No one but us is insane or dumb enough to be out in this.”

Y/N sighed staring down at the dash daring to ask the question she didn’t want to hear the answer to. “How long will we have the privilege of a heater?”

Jimmy felt that guilt bubble up all the more rapidly. “Not long…I just don’t want to risk us running too low on gas when we don’t know how far the nearest town even is.”

Jimmy reluctantly placed his hand on the ignition cringing as he turned the key shutting off the engine. He glanced into the rearview mirror, an idea crossing his mind. “I have a blanket in the back floorboard…it’s kind of scratchy, but it may work. My mom always told me to keep a blanket in the car just for situations like this.”

Y/N nodded her head a small smile crossing her lips at the mention of Jimmy’s mother. She could admit she found it kind of cute, how close he seemed to be to his mother. She’d gotten the impression that Jimmy Palmer was a little bit of a mama's boy, though she had a feeling he wasn’t the annoying kind of momma’s boy who couldn’t cut the umbilical cord. If anything he just seemed to have a lot of respect for the woman. He’d seemed to indicate that from the age of ten on that his mom had essentially been a single mom. He seemed to have a lot of adoration for her.

Jimmy spoke again, nodding to the backseat. “We can get in the back, share the blanket. If we’re going to have to wait out this storm until morning we may as well be comfortable.”

Y/N gave him a slight smile nodding her head as he took off her coat and kicked off her high heels. “Let’s see if I can in the backseat without having to get out of the car.”

She turned around in her seat getting on her knees somehow managing to crawl through the tight space between the drivers seat and the passengers seat.

She fell into the backseat the movement clumsy but at least successful.

Jimmy followed her in suit, ditching his coat as well. His movements were a little less graceful than hers and he couldn’t stop the less than attractive grunt from leaving him as he practically fell into the backseat.

He managed to stand up the best he could in the car, leaning over between the tight space between the drivers seat and passengers seat as he grasped onto the lantern he’d left on the dashboard.

He fell back against the backseat resting the camping lantern on the armrest between the drivers seat and passengers seat. 

He managed to reach down to the floorboard finding the blanket he’d promised. It was a horribly unattractive thing; scratchy, a little on the thin side, and a shade that could best be described as pea soup green. He knew it was better than nothing though. 

He opened the blanket Y/N scooting closer to him as he covered them both.

They sat in silence for a long while neither were sure what to say. They were both a little frustrated by the turn of events tonight had taken.

Y/N couldn’t stop the chill from running down her spine, her damp clothing making it harder to get warm even with the blanket's presence.

Jimmy noticed as she began to run her hands up and down her arms in an attempt to warm herself. “We should get warm soon.”

Y/N spoke, shaking her head, a realization crossing her mind. “Not with these wet clothes. Wet clothes make the dry blanket useless. We can’t retain any heat if we’re stuck in these soaked clothes. We have to ditch some layers if we’re going to get warm.”

Jimmy felt his cheeks flush at this statement. He cleared his throat trying not to gawk at Y/N as she pushed back the blanket and reached behind her finding the zipper to her dress. 

She pulled her dress up and over her head revealing the black slip she wore under the dress. She allowed the stockings to follow, glad to be rid of the damp fabric.

Jimmy stared straight ahead, ditching his shoes and damp clothing as well, his heart racing. He stripped down to his boxers and undershirt praying that the glow of the lantern was low enough that she wouldn’t notice just how pink his cheeks had grown.

Y/N got back under the warmth of the blanket, she not shy about scooting close to Jimmy. He took a deep breath, his heart still racing as he wrapped his arm around her waist, she resting her head against his chest.

She spoke a soft sigh leaving her. “There, that’s better already. Now we should get warm.”

Jimmy cleared his throat his cheeks flushing all the darker he realizing his voice had risen a pitch. “Yeah, better.”

He shifted in his seat unable to focus on anything else but how soft her skin felt. She was so soft. It was something he’d noticed before of course. Each time her hand pressed against his during a dinner date and everytime her lips met his during a chaste goodnight kiss after a date. Her skin and her lips were so soft.

His heart continued to race he unable to stop thinking about the slip she was wearing. It was so short on her body and it hugged her curves so perfectly. It was high enough that the warm skin of her thigh was pressed against him, the silky material of the fabric of the slip feeling heavenly against his palm.

He felt his cheeks grow even darker, the lower region of his body unable to stop itself from perking up at the sensations of her soft skin and the closeness of her against him.

He spoke trying so hard to distract himself from the lust beginning to flow through his body. “What a night huh?”

“Yeah no kidding. The cherry on top of our day.” She remarked the giggle that left her doing little to smother down his lust.

He shushed the voice in the back of his brain that insisted that she probably noticed just how turned on he currently was. She would probably notice at any moment just the reaction he was having to her state of dress and she would think he was a huge pervert. All they’d done is share a few innocent kisses so far and here he was lusting after her like some drooling mindless horndog. 

He felt anxiety swirl in his belly joining the lust.

The silence returned, the only sound filling the air was the howl of the wind outside. 

Jimmy wasn’t sure what came over him…maybe it was just his inability to sit in silence when he felt anxious. He usually resorted to running his mouth when he felt anxious. He talked too much as it was but the habit only intensified when he felt anxious. 

He felt the words leave his mouth before he could stop them. “So we’ve been on a lot of dates lately.”

He cringed at his own comment. Way to sound smooth, he taunted himself silently.

He felt his anxiety swirl all the more as Y/N spoke she seemingly not finding his comment as awkward as he did. “We have.”

Jimmy felt the words continue to spill from him he unable to keep his mouth shut for even a second the panic switch in his brain overriding any ability to shut up. “Are..uh, are you seeing anyone else?”

He cringed at the question, he suddenly realizing that she might interpret his question in the worst way possible. What if she assumed he was asking because he wanted to see other people? He didn’t want to see other people. 

He spoke again, quick to speak he stumbling over his words. “I’m not…I mean…I-I don’t want to see other people. I’m not going on dates with anyone else. So I-I was just wondering if you…you know you are seeing anyone else?...or you know want to?”

He bit down on the inside of his cheek feeling like he’d made a mess of things with his giant mouth. He’d made things so awkward. 

Y/N widened her eyes at the question, it taking her a bit off guard. She managed to give Jimmy a reassuring smile, her hand reaching down placing over his hand on the arm that wasn’t currently wrapped around her. “I’m not seeing anyone else, nor do I want to.”

“Oh, uh…good…cool. That’s uh, cool.” Jimmy replied, closing his eyes cringing at his own words.

He felt so immature. He felt like a nervous middle schooler all over again. He was sure middle schoolers were capable of being more smooth than he felt right now.

“It is cool.” Y/N remarked a somewhat teasing tone to her voice.

Jimmy felt his cheeks flush all the more he clearing his throat. 

He took a deep breath he finding the words. “I’ve never been good at this kind of thing?”

“Good at what?” Y/N asked knowing one thing she’d learned about Jimmy was that sometimes he needed a little coaxing. He occasionally got a bit too in his head and let his anxieties get the best of him. He sometimes needed a little reassurance when he was trying to sort out his thoughts without totally freezing up.

Jimmy took another deep breath, he deciding his best bet would just be to be blunt. He couldn’t hold it in any longer.

He was so sick of keeping silent and letting the questions torment him. It was now or never.

“Having the big what are we talk…I was, well I was kind of a late bloomer. I didn’t even have my first kiss until the last semester of my freshman year in college. I’ve always been like this…like, I don’t know, just awkward…a  mess.”

“I don’t think you’re a mess.” she replied quick to reassure him.

He shook his head a weak smile crossing his lips. “I appreciate it, but I know I’m a disaster. I never know what to do or say when it comes to dating…it doesn’t help that my last relationship was all physical…I felt pretty used by the end of it to be honest…I just, I.”

He paused feeling his throat grow tight as he decided to just be blunt about it. “I like you. I like you a lot…I more than like you…I’m crazy about you. I don’t want to see anyone else but you…and I don’t want you to see anyone other than me. I’ve had more fun on our dates than I’ve ever had with anyone. I want us to be official…I want to be your boyfriend.”

He closed his eyes his heart racing all the more anxiety growing all the more apparent in his gut. He couldn’t help but to think that he sounded like such a disaster. 

He felt the words leave him he speaking so quickly that he was almost certain Y/N couldn’t understand a word that left his lips. “I have been wanting to ask you about this but I’ve had no idea how to even approach the subject. I was just afraid you didn’t feel the same and you just saw this as something casual. I mean we’ve kissed but I got in my head that maybe you didn’t see it as serious and then I felt horrible for even thinking that because I don’t think you just kiss guys when you don’t mean it. I just got into my head about it all and it’s been driving me insane and I had no idea how to even say the words to you, but I am crazy about you and I want to man up and ask you. I want this to be serious. I can understand if you don’t feel the same and I promise I’m not a jerk who’s going to pout if you don’t feel the same I am…”

He didn’t have a chance to keep rambling Y/N gently reaching up her hand placing over his lips she quick to speak. “Jimmy, slow down and take a breath.”

He felt his cheeks flush all the more he nodding his head frantically. She pulled her hand from his mouth she allowing the massive amount of information he’d just dropped on her to roll through her brain.

“I haven’t been kissing you without it meaning anything. I just…you seemed so nervous.” She admitted her own cheeks flushing.

She cleared her throat as she spoke again knowing that she’d never quite been too great at this herself. “I didn’t want to spook you.”

“You were afraid of scaring me off?” Jimmy asked dumbfounded by this information.

She nodded her head a soft laugh leaving her. “Can you blame me? You’re the most intelligent and the sweetest guy who’s ever asked me on a date…Do you have any idea how excited I was when you finally asked me out on that first date?”

He shook his head frantically he slowly absorbing the information he stunned by it.

She spoke her hand placing back over his as she spoke. “I have liked you from the moment we met…I know that sounds silly and overly romantic….maybe naive even. I don’t know if I believe in love at first sight, but I knew I was at least crushing when we first met. Then you seemed so nervous around me. You finally asked me on a date and I thought the nervousness would fade, but I could still feel it. I thought you might run away the first time I kissed you, but then you kissed back. I kept kissing you on our dates after that, but I never pushed for it to go further…Like I said I didn’t want to scare you off. I thought I’d let you push for more…I wanted to move at your pace.”

Jimmy groaned a self deprecating laugh leaving his lips. “I move at a snails pace…I thought I was letting you push for more and we were moving at your pace.”

“So we’re both bad at this.” She pointed out making him giggle the realization washing over him.

“We’re both hopeless dorks.” He admitted shaking his head unable to believe it. This entire time he’d been scared of her rejection and it seemed she’d been scared of scaring him away.

They’d both been terrified and totally unaware of it.

She spoke it suddenly hitting her they hadn’t addressed one of his earlier statements. “I don’t want to see anyone else either…and if you saw someone else I’d probably…no I’d definitely be pissed…I’d be so jealous I couldn’t stand it.”

She spoke again before he had a chance to respond to this. “I want you to be my boyfriend. I want to be your girlfriend.”

“Really?” He blurted out a voice in the back of his brain telling him it couldn’t be this simple. 

So rarely in his life were things ever this simple.

“Really.” She responded she leaning up her lips brushing across his.

This kiss was much like the chaste goodnight kisses they’d shared in the past, but it didn’t take long for it to grow more impassioned.

It seemed that the realization that they’d both been waiting to move at the others pace had pushed past some of the shyness.

She couldn’t stop the moan from slipping past her lips as he coaxed her mouth open his tongue sliding along hers as the kiss grew more intense.

She took a chance moving over to straddle his hips the space in the backseat tight. His lips kept pressed hers his hands placing at her hips trying to help keep her situated in his lap in the tight space they were allowed.

She was unable to stop herself from grinding her hips against his as they continued to kiss his hands daring to roam her body over the slip she wore.

He moaned as her lips parted from his she pulling the slip up and over her head leaving her in a revealing pair of undergarments.

Jimmy felt his cheeks flush he working up his nerve to lose his undershirt it her turn to moan at the sight of his bare torso.

Her lips met his again he caressing her body as he returned to rocking her hips against his. He knew the lower region of body was clearly showing her just how much he was enjoying this but any shyness he’d felt over this reaction earlier in the evening was long gone he freely doing his best to rock back against her.

He moaned as she ran her hands through his hair messing it they continuing to grind against one another the cold they’d felt moment ago long forgotten.

He ran his hands along her back underneath her bra caressing her bare skin. She took him by shock as she reached behind her unhooking the clasp Jimmy moaning all the louder as her bare torso was revealed to him.

He stared down at her breasts sure that he was completely brainless. Her lips met his a giggle leaving her lips at his expression. She wasn’t sure if any other guy had ever stared at her body quite like this. He was an equal mix of adorable and lustful. He was by far the sexiest man she’d ever dated. She’d forgotten to add that compliment along with mentioning his intelligence and his sweetness.

She went back to grinding against him they continuing to make out it obvious that they were growing more and more bold the longer they spent kissing and grinding.

He managed to turn them allowing her to rest against the backseat he resting between her thighs he returning to grinding against her. She allowed her hands to trace his spine this change in position just as wonderful as their previous position.

She pressed her lips to his neck nipping at his skin not helping but to like the idea of leaving a mark behind.

She ran her hands down his back she sliding them underneath his boxers unable to stop herself from grasping his backside encouraging him to rock against her a little more enthusiastically.

Jimmy groaned as his lips parted from hers. His body was screaming at him that he wanted this to proceed so badly he could almost cry. He was sure he’d never been so turned on in his entire life.

His heart was screaming a little louder than the lower region of his body though. He stilled his hips his voice frantic his cheeks flushed from more than lust. “I want you so bad right now. You have no idea.”

“I think I have a pretty good idea.” She teased pulling her hands from underneath his boxers tracing his spine.

Jimmy sighed his over-romantic heart screaming so loudly. “You deserve so much more than this. I want this so bad, but I kind of want my first time making love to you to be in a more romantic location…you know one with a bed and better lighting.”

She smiled up at him a little shocked that he was able to see through the haze of lust. He spoke again clearing his throat as he further explained himself. He stumbling through it a bit at the end. “I want to really be able to fully see you and have room to really enjoy you our first time. This backseat business is kind of cramped…and I don’t know about…you know uh, protection. I mean…I’m uh, I’m clean but I uh…and I’m sure you’re clean but you know.”

She chuckled at this comment nodding her head. “Not looking for any unplanned pregnancies.”

He felt his cheeks flush the words leaving him. “No, I mean…I love kids…I want kids…I uh…I’m pretty sure I don’t want to conceive my first child in the backseat of a car though.”

He resisted the urge to bury his face against her neck almost certain he’d made things so awkward. He was talking about concieving future hypothetical kids with her. What if she didn’t want kids? What if she thought he expected kids sometime soon?

His fears died as she spoke a small laugh leaving her. “I love kids too, but I agree…I don’t think this is how I want to make them…If I get pregnant I’d much rather it be in a more romantic location…and I’d like us to wait a little while on that.”

Her own cheeks flushed at this comment she fast to speak again clearing her throat. “As far as safety goes…I’ve got an IUD.”

She pressed a kiss to his cheek fast to speak once again. “I agree though. I’d like our first time to be a bit more roomy than this and better lighting might be nice.”

He let out an soft sigh relieved that he hadn’t made a huge mess of things with his big mouth.

He was beginning to realize that perhaps Y/N didn’t mind his big mouth as much as he feared she might.

She spoke a small teasing smile crossing her lips. “So…would you be opposed to making out? I promise we won’t get too carried away.”

He answered her with a press of his lips to hers the two of them realizing that waiting out this storm was going to be more fun than they’d hoped.

—----------------------

It was warm despite the cold outside. His back hurt a little and it was either from the tight space in the backseat or the fact that the clasp to a seatbelt was digging into his back.

It was hard to feel too uncomfortable with the weight of her on top of him and the feel of her skin along with the warmth under the blanket he’d draped over them the night before.

If this was what it was like to wake up with his girlfriend in his arms then he was ready to sign up for it.

He frowned, his sleep being interrupted by a firm tapping noise.

He struggled to pull himself from sleep as he began to focus on the persistent tapping.

He peeled his eyes open, the sunlight too bright. He’d taken his glasses off and tossed them in the front seat at some point last night so his vision was slightly blurry from more than sleep.

He felt his heart drop as he finally located the source of that persistent tapping.

The highway patrol officer looked less than amused to come across the amorous couple. He was peering at them through the backseat in a way that made Jimmy’s stomach turn.

He spoke his voice gentle, thankful the blanket covered Y/N’s form given that she’d never put her bra on the night before and had remained in a pair of panties. “Hey baby, wake up. Uh…there…there’s an officer here. Don’t panic, okay, I’m going to sit you up and keep you covered with the blanket. I won’t let him see anything.”

Y/N felt her own heart drop at this news, her mind pulling from sleep to a less than pleasant wake up. 

Jimmy kept his promise keeping her covered by the blanket knowing he’d rather expose his boxer clad form than have her body revealed to a total stranger.

He tried to put on a brave face as he sat up gently opening the door the words falling from his lips. “I can explain everything, officer. We got a flat tire and we were trying to keep warm and I have my ID. Just let me get my pants.”

“I’ve called a tow truck. I suggest you two make yourselves decent. Town is a couple of miles from here. The roads are a mess so you two might want to consider getting a motel till this mess clears out. I’m going to let you off with a warning.” The officer was fast to respond he apparently feeling just as awkward about this situation.

Jimmy barely managed to work out a thank you officer as they were finally left alone.

He groaned his head falling back to rest against the seat. “That highway patrol just saw me in my boxers. Oh god, I hope Dr. Mallard doesn't ever find out about this. I can hear him telling me that this behavior is totally unbecoming of a future medical examiner.”

“Dr. Mallard isn’t the one you should worry about. Tony is the one you should be afraid of knowing about this.” She remarked Jimmy feeling himself pale at this statement.

She leaned down finding her clothing as she spoke. “So it sounds like your car might be out of service for a while…or at least the roads might be. I think I heard something about a motel room…you did say something last night about being interested in better lighting and more space to work with. I bet we can find plenty to do while we wait for the roads to clear up.”

Jimmy felt the grin cross his lips, he reaching down to the floorboard fast to find his pants. “I did. I think your boyfriend can find plenty of things to do while we wait for the roads to clear up.”

She spoke giving him knowing smile. “If you can’t then your girlfriend has a few things in mind.”

He felt the smile grow all the more both at the promise and the word. Girlfriend, the word never sounded so beautiful.

[carvewme]

370 cal Reeses Blizzard, meal replacement, sweet treat!

Feel like eating ice cream for dinner! Here’s the meal replacement for you!

2x the size of a Dairy Queen small Blizzard for 1/2 the calories!

24 oz blender cup

Add one scoop of Chocolate SlimFast powder.

Add 16 oz of Milk

Fill the rest of your 24 oz cup with ice

Blend together until ice cream/flurry consistency.

Sit in freezer as you do next part

Get two 90 calorie SlimFast Chocolate Peanut butter treats (basically reese’s!)

Cut both into smaller pieces

take out your blend from the freezer

mix in candy pieces

and enjoy!!!

so good and so filling, without the guilty conscience afterwards!!! so much better for than you diary queen, but still just as tasty 😋

[naturepointstheway]

My 10 Longest Fics on AO3 As of May 30, 2024

So out of curiosity, I went to my AO3 works (username there is HathorAroha, which was my old username before I changed my tumblr url to my current one), and sorted my works by word count, and here's the top 10 longest ones so far in order from biggest:

Of Ghosts and Carols - Beauty and the Beast - G - No Warnings Apply - 39,379 words (multi-chapter) A few days before Christmas one year, Prince Adam, already turned selfish and bitter by his past and by his now-deceased father, is visited by an Enchantress who foretells his visitation by three ghosts who will show him his past, present, and what may be in his future if he does not learn to try to open his heart again to love now that his cruel father is dead.

30 Days of Beauty and the Beast: One Line, Different Character - Beauty and the Beast - T - No Warnings Apply - 33,758 words (multi-chapter, but all just one shots if that makes sense) As the title suggests, thirty one-shots for thirty days where I take a single line from the movie spoken by one character, and give it to someone else, however likely or unlikely. Characters and other tags will be added as each one shot is added day by day. One-shots' lengths vary from tiny drabbles to long ones, and I'll aim to be mostly fluffy/non-angsty. Take note, I said "mostly".

Snowflakes, Witches, and Eternity - Frozen/Snow Queen Crossover - G - No Warnings Apply - 27,767 words (multi-chapter) One afternoon, an unexpected blizzard carries little Anna and Elsa to the Land of Oz. The sisters are separated, with Elsa lured into the Snow Queen's embrace and Anna lost somewhere in Oz. While Elsa stays in the Snow Queen's castle, Anna searches Oz for her beloved sister, whose heart has been turned to ice. Anna must find Elsa before it is too late and she loses her for good.

Beauty and the Fourteen Prompts - Beauty and the Beast - G - No Warnings Apply - 18,535 words (multi-chapter, but a series of one-shots) A collection of my fanfic responses to the 14 writing prompts in @tinydooms' #BATB14fics writing challenge for January 2019 on Tumblr. I am doing it out of order of her list of prompts, going with which ones are inspiring me most first, and leave the rest for later. Even if "later" is two years later! See Chip's excitement over a new writing desk (very grown up indeed!), the village baker's thoughts on Belle's remarks on his job, and more! And that's all my multi-chapters (I tend not to like doing multi-chapters because i get bored way too quickly XD). Now it's ALL one-shots, and of COURSE my first ever explicit fic ends up being the biggest of them all. Why. Why. *shrugs*

Manes, Magic, and Pleasure - Cats the Musical - E - No Warnings Apply - 9400 words - Tuggoffelees (Mistoffelees/Tugger)

Misto gazed up at him with a rapturous, untethered grin full of pure joy, his eyes sparkling like a moonless, clear sky. Beautiful, phenomenal, magical. Tugger couldn’t help but press a kiss on his soft cheek and one more on his temple, paws still interlaced with his."

Just shy of a whole year after the last Jellicle Ball, Tugger discovers one day that Mistoffelees is ready to go farther with their relationship, despite his worries about overwhelming him with the sensations. At the end there is trust, so much trust, and so much love.

6. House and Home and Security - Life is Strange 2 - T - No Warnings Apply - 8193 words Hours after leaving prison behind forever, Sean finds himself at Daniel's new home, a house he can never feel is his, no matter how much Daniel insists it's his home too whenever he needs it. And there is a strange, forgotten feeling both alien and familiar, one he has nearly forgotten over the last fifteen years he had spent in a prison cell. And how is it that Daniel is already so grown up, a young man of twenty-five years?

7. On the Breath of a Storm - Life is Strange - T - Major Character Death - 8011 words - Pricefield (Chloe/Max) - Alternate Timeline "Our" Max, the Max of our timeline, leaves a note behind on the offchance that the alternate timeline with Chloe in a wheelchair will continue without her. Alternate Max "awakes" to the letter, and is forced to face what has happened to Chloe. A storm still approaches the bay, unseen and all warnings from this strange Max not of this world unheeded.

8. And So the Little Wolf Outlived the Big Wolf - Life is Strange 2 - T - No Archive Warnings (read the trigger warnings in the tags though!) - 7923 words - Lone Wolf Ending It is seven years since Sean's death at the border, and the day Daniel has dreaded since then has come: the day he officially outlives his older brother. On the night of Daniel's seventeenth, Sean comes to him in a dream and makes him promise to call someone, anyone, just so he isn't alone anymore.

9. I'm Somewhere, You're Somewhere, I'm Nowhere, You're Nowhere - Life is Strange - T - Major Character Death - 6214 words - Alternate Timeline - Pricefield

Maxine Caulfield wakes up after a night of partying it up and clubbing for her eighteenth birthday to discover a text on her cellphone:

"Max, it’s with a saddened heart I have to tell you Chloe passed away last night, 21st September, at 11:30pm."

She resolves to visit Chloe one more time, like the hypocrite that she is.

10. The Mute and the Maine - Cats the Musical - T - No Archive Warnings apply (read the tags for trigger warnings, however) - 5744 words - Tuggoffelees (Mistoffelees/Tugger)

Troubled by Demeter's words about Mistoffelees, a mute cat mostly outcast by the tribe, Tugger takes it onto himself to have a talk with Misto, and let him know he is not alone. [Originally posted on Tumblr] [Based on Lindsay Chambers' Mistoffelees from the very late '80s/very early '90s in a Zurich production.]

[wawamouse]

Oz Rewatch 3: S4E13: Blizzard of ’01

Storylines

The effects of the aging pills are reversed

There’s a blizzard outside

Gloria is named as co-defendent in the Wicks familys lawsuit against Oz and Weitgart

Suzanne Fitzgerald comes to Oz to try and see Ryan; Cyril beats Howell; Cyril might get transferred to Connelly; Ryan asks Seamus about Suzanne; Gloria tells Ryan she’ll help find Suzanne again

Hughes’s mother visits; he alludes to some plan; he continues to act up in Unit J

Basil and Glynn meet

Busmalis is stood up by Norma at the altar.

Samuel Gougen converts to Catholicism; Mukada and Cloutier beef; Kirk gets Gougen beaten and Cloutier confronts him; Mukada meets with Said and they have an ecumenical service

Carrie comes to visit Schillinger, who tells her Hank is dead; her water breaks

Edward Galson arrives at Oz as Beecher’s new cellmate; Katherine McClaine arrives to help Beecher get paroled; Beecher punches Galson in the dick for being homophobic and gets put in the Cage;

Jackson Vahue struggles in therapy with Sister Pete and seeks harder drugs from Redding; Redding offers him a needle instead; Jackson decides to get clean

Carlton “Tug” Daniels arrives at Oz; tensions rise between the Homeboys and Latinos; Hill begins to have doubts about the violence and after talking to Said, tips off the hacks about war; SORT prevents the violence; lockdown is issued

Giles must choose his method of execution and requests to be stoned to death; Moses meets with his lawyer and senses his time is up and so decides to ask Said to help him find organ donors and meet them

Salah Udeen tells Robson and Hoyt he no longer plans to kill Said; Udeen confesses the plot to Said, who reveals he already knew; Udeen takes an attempt on Said’s life for him; Said blames himself for the death

Sister: Shannon?! …Oh… This his grandma? Oh, it’s his mother, isn’t it? Wait, isn’t his mother dead?

Sister: Yeah, and look what happened. Crack.

Sister: I don’t know…. maybe she shouldn’t work at a desk if she can’t open drawers…. Me: Don’t speak ill of Floria, [SisterFirstName LastName].

Sister: Ever since his relationship went down hill, he’s been searching for a new identity. Is that why he shaved off his mustache? And now I have to look at that?

Sister: That’s what Miranda said in Sex and the City.

Sister: Hm, this is the gay episode. [sips water loudly] I’ve seen this in a manga before.

Sister: He looks like a cult leader.

Sister: Where did this rabbi come from? Me: (squint) you know, he kinda looks like the show creator does now… but that’s probably not what he looked like back then…

Sister: The largest newborn baby I’ve ever seen, slathered in jam.

Nothing really to say about this other than Augustus looks adorable lol

Sister: Once this guy is gone, my angel can finally come out of Solitary on his little poo-wings (flaps hands like little wings)

Sister: He’s so embarrassing. Look at those highlights. Me: Yeah, but remember, this was 2001. That was like peak Asian coolness. [Classmate] had them back in second grade and I was so jealous. I had a crush on him. Sister: Well do you have a crush on this guy? Me: No… Sister: Exactly. ‘Cause he walks like he’s coming to a break dance battle.

Sister: Why… what… Which one of them is on the visitor side for this?

Sister: This guy’s hair is baffling.

Final thoughts:

Sister: That was the end? I didn’t even get to see my poopy little angel. Me: I thought you were the angel. Sister: Yeah, I used up too much of my energy. Now he’s part angel too.

Sister: I saw many butt cheeks. Me: How do you rate the butt cheeks? Sister: Hmm… I think most of them I saw were flabby? Oh no, Said had a firm but (holds up hands as if cupping). And big muscular thighs, whapow! And I think O’Reily’s butt got fatter. It was really flat just a couple episodes ago. Me: It's because of where his pants were. Sister: Ohhh... they were were under there like a push up bra. Me: There was also like… Oh, you said Supreme Allah, but that was just his legs on the hospital bed. Sister: Oooh, yes. He got them strong legs and also those socks where like you can imagine if he wore those vintage dolphin shorts and a little visor. And he’s got his tank top and dreads. Give him a little whistle. Tweet tweet. Camp counselor. Green shorts. He’d look great in green. Supreeeeme Allah. Put him on a poster with those legs (does a pose, hand folded behind head) (starts googling dolphin shorts to show me the exact outfit she has in mind)

Sister: They keep not really showing the Latinos and the Italians on the show. Me: Yeah, they basically only have the Italians have story lines in the first three seasons. Sister: I don’t even know who any of them are. Like there’s the main guy but I don’t know who any of the others are. They could switch ‘em out and I wouldn’t know. Me: They do show the Latinos sometimes throughout the episodes. They were beefing with the Homeboys this episode. Sister: Yeah, but they only have the two main guys and I don’t know who anyone else is. Me: Well they killed the third guy last episode. Miguel killed Jorge Vasquez and that’s why he’s in the Hole…. Although, I did see Jorge in some of the cafeteria scenes this episode… Sister: Time travel...

Stray Thoughts

Dr. Nasca = doctor at Benchley

Seitz = lawyer for Weitgart

As horrible as Howell is, she’s really funny, and she was especially a highlight in this episode, I feel like.

I liked the Said and Mukada moments in this episode. I feel like they have an interesting dynamic—too bad there isn’t more in the show

Only 2 or 3 of the unnamed members of El Norte appeared at the ecumenical service

Penis count: 2

No Miguel this episode 🥲 But at least Chico was present! Up and playing basketball even! Siri, how long does it take to heal after getting stabbed with a kitchen knife?

If we go by Sister’s Glynn logic and the pre-established Beecher facial-hair-by-mood premise, I propose a new theory behind Chico’s clean shaven look in s6: he got dumped lol

[cainluvr69]

Surely, We Can Make Miracles Chapter 15

Previous Chapter

Figaro: <Possideo>

Magic focus in hand, Figaro began casting healing magic on Snow, still locked in the frame. Pale light embraced him, and the dark poison's corrosion of his body began to slow down, even if only a little.

Figaro: Oz, take it down!

But Oz had already drawn his staff from the aether, holding it aloft, rising through the air until he was even with the top of Hwylryn's head. I looked down at Hwylryn's face, riddled with injuries. His silver eyes quietly observed not Oz but me, the person next to him.

Akira: (…I hate this.) (…I don't want to hurt Hwylryn!)

Oz: <Vox…>

I impulsively shook Oz's hand off of my own and pulled it away from him. Oz's eyes widened. That was when we started falling.

Akira: (…!)

Oz pressed my head into the safety of his chest, trying to protect me. We crashed into the water with a huge splash.

✦✧☾✧✦

I was trembling. It was because I was underwater again. It was because I'd shaken off Oz's hand. It was because White was gone now. It was because Hwylryn was covered in wounds. Feelings of guilt and rejection swirled in my heart, an endlessly discordant mess that made me feel like I was going to pop. I saw something's shadow coming closer to me and I gasped in fear.

Akira: …! …!

I tried to inhale water and immediately choked on it. I couldn't breathe. Something in my head was getting hot. The something that had come close grabbed my hand. Should I cling to it? Should I try to shove it off? Fear and hope seethed against one another inside my skull. But it was Oz. Of course it was Oz's hand. All the chaos in my mind settled down, and he pulled on my arm, leading me to the surface.

✦✧☾✧✦

Akira: Hah… Haahh… Cough…cough cough…!

Oz: Hah…hah… Are you unharmed, Sage?

Akira: Yes… Sorry about that…

Oz: Give me your hand. Grant me your power. I will once again…

Akira: N…no…!

As Oz reached for my hand again, I reflexively pushed him away. Even though I've said that I owe him my life.

Oz: …

Oz's eyes widened slightly, startled. But even at a time like this, I saw no anger in his eyes. He spoke to me with all the patience of a long-suffering parent.

Oz: …Why?

Akira: Hwy… Hwylryn is… That dragon is…

I froze, my mouth still open, suddenly anxious about whether or not this was something I should talk about.

Akira: That dragon is my friend. I don't want to hurt him…

As soon as I put that into words, I finally started crying. An innocent, carefree dragon whom I'd only just met. My beloved Snow and White, who were always so kind to me. Oz, who had saved me countless times. But here I was, feeling like I was betraying all of them. I didn't know what to do, and so I cried. I felt like I was being selfish, like I was trying to shove all of my problems onto the person who'd made me cry, just like a child would. But Oz didn't scold me. I looked up, bewildered, as rain rolled down my cheeks. It was cleansing me, maybe.

Oz: I see…

Figaro: Master Sage! Oz! Where are you?! I can't feel the dragon's malice… …!

Lennox: <Mare Praeda>

Suddenly, an icy blizzard sprang into existence, its winds aiming solely for Figaro.

Figaro: <Possideo>

He threw up a barrier on reflex, deflecting the attack. But inside Figaro's barrier, inside his frame, Snow's skin was slowly being painted the color of the poison coursing through his veins. His limbs were limp and weak. Figaro held a hand over the painting again, and a pale light once more wrapped itself around Snow's body. But that weakened the barrier, and it cracked open.

Figaro: …kh… You…you're…

Figaro looked for his opponent, and then his voice rose in shock.

Figaro: Leno…?!

Standing as a tyrant would over his domain, the Southern wizard Lennox presided over the storming sea and sky. I saw pure, unadulterated loathing smoldering in the eyes of this kind, taciturn wizard, whose presence was better suited for a grassy field under a bright blue sky.

Akira: Lennox…!

He didn't even glance at me. His eyes were on Oz as he rocked back and forth in the waves, his grin a hateful sneer.

Lennox: Oz! Who could have imagined we'd meet again in a place like this!

Oz: …Balthazar…

Figaro: Bastard… What have you done to Lennox…?!

Lennox?: Ahaha! So you know the owner of this body. All the more reason to stifle his soul and use him as my arms and legs!

Figaro: Wh…

Lennox?: You stole my land from me, after all!

Akira: …Stole your land…?

Oz: …

Figaro: …

Both Oz and Figaro stayed silent. But this was a story that I'd heard before. Once upon a time, they'd sought to conquer the world.

Akira: (Could the wizard manipulating Lennox be someone they angered back then…?)

While I was still reeling from the shock of Lennox attacking us, I saw another spectacle that made my eyes grow wide. Hwylryn had quietly coiled around Lennox--around the wizard puppeting Lennox's body, the one named Balthazar.

Akira: (Huh…?)

Hwylryn: Balthazar. Did you find your foe?

Lennox?: Yes.

Hwylryn: I found Gwawlyn's, too.

Lennox?: I know. You've taken down Snow of the North.

Hwylryn's silver eyes narrowed happily. He was…smiling.

Lennox?: If he's been struck with your poison, he won't last until dawn. Oz, Figaro. Though you came to steal my land here three times now…

Figaro: You've got that wrong, Balthazar.

Lennox?: I won't let things go how you expect. If you try to steal from me again, I'll sink Borda Island the same way Adams Island sank. <Mare Praeda>!

I heard a strange rumbling from below us. What had he done? While I was glancing around anxiously, I saw some dark silhouettes racing through the night sky. It was Arthur, Cain, Murr, Rustica, and Chloe.

Arthur: Master Sage! Lord Oz!

Oz: Arthur…

Arthur: I'm here to help! <Pernoctant Nixzo>!

Arthur's magic lifted Oz and I to his broom. Cain took Oz in the middle.

Arthur: Are you unhurt? Has something happened to Lords Snow and White in their painting?

Cain: Oz, are you okay?! Lennox and that dragon are…

Chloe: It…it's a dragon… I've never seen one before… Wh-where's Shy…

Rustica: You there! I don't believe you're actually Lennox, but you do know where Shylock is, yes? Could you kindly turn him back over to us?

Lennox?: Shylock will never return.

Chloe: Why not?!

Lennox?: Because he has become my servant.

Murr: Did he really? 'Cause that sounds even more difficult than getting the whole world to sit in your palm!

Lennox?: How dare you…

Murr: <Eanul Lambru>!

Lennox?: Hwylryn!

Hwylryn: You need to run, Akira.

Akira: Huh?

Hwylryn faced Arthur and I and then exhaled a long breath. We immediately got sent flying, his breath sending us tumbling far, far away from their battlefield.

Akira: Wah… Waahh…!

Arthur: …gh…! Master Sage!

I thought I was going to fall off his broom again, so I grabbed one of Arthur's arms and held on tight. It had taken such little time for us to end up so far from where we'd been. And when I thought that, of course, a fierce bolt of lightning illuminated the clouds, and the ocean waves raged violently.

Chloe: Waaahhh…!

Rustica: Chloe!

Cain: …Damn, that's some power he's got! Is this whole storm because of that one dragon…?!

Oz: …It rivals my own.

Murr: <Eanul Lambru>! …Wahh…!!

Figaro: Cain, stop Murr! His death would be a loss for the entire world!

Cain: On it!

Murr: ……! <Eanu…>

Cain: Murr! Watch out…! <Gladius Procella>!

Murr: …! Cain!

Cain: Glad to see you're still in one piece!

Murr: …Shylock…

✦✧☾✧✦

Lennox?: Hmph… That's enough. Withdraw, Hwylryn.

Hwylryn: You sure? You aren't gonna eat your enemies yet?

Lennox?: I will only kill Oz and Figaro after I have returned to my original form.

Hwylryn: …

Lennox?: Though they'll be no match for me within my underwater city.

Hwylryn: Gotcha.

✦✧☾✧✦

Chloe: …They vanished into the ocean…

Rustica: Shylock must also be somewhere below us…

Murr: …

Cain: Why is Lennox doing this…? Figaro?! Are the twins okay?!

Figaro: … …I don't know… …This is an incredibly strong poison. Healing magic can halt its progress, but it just keeps eating through him… If we can't find a way to help him, then…

✦✧☾✧✦

Arthur: …Are you okay, Master Sage?!

Akira: …urgh…yes… …

I stared at the spot where Hwylryn had disappeared into the water, complicated feelings twisting around in my chest. I just…hadn't realized anything back then. That wizard, the one named Balthazar, had captured Shylock… Hwylryn had poisoned Snow… And White had disappeared… Oz couldn't use magic at night… Figaro had his hands full with Snow's treatment… Faust was badly shaken by Lennox getting possessed… All of the Sage's wizards we called "teachers" were… Dealing with very, very different things than our usual day-to-day life.

✦✧☾✧✦

Lennox: … I wonder where this is… … Courir… Haha… What's wrong? What are you doing over there… I feel like we've been apart for a while, but… I've wanted to see you again. …Where is this… I feel like I was looking for someone… Who was it…? … What's wrong, Courir? Should I keep looking for them… Or should I stay here… I have a feeling there's something I don't want to face in the distance. … But…I want to see them. I don't know what I want to do once I see them again, but… Let's go, Courir. We don't have to rush. Let's take it step by step…

✦✧☾✧✦

With the twins' frame securely in our hands, we returned to Borda Island. The only thing in the frame was Snow and his suffering. Figaro was using his magic on the painting within the frame, not pausing even for a moment. Next to him, Arthur was desperately calling Snow's name.

Arthur: Lord Snow! Lord Snow!

Figaro: I don't think he can hear you right now… If I let up on the healing even for a second, death is going to claim him in the blink of an eye… I can't believe a dragon's poison is so potent…

Arthur: What led to Lord Snow fighting a sea dragon?

I faltered for a moment under Arthur's gaze, but I still told the truth of the matter.

Akira: …Because Snow and White killed that sea dragon's… Because they killed Hwylryn's twin brother. That's what he said…

Arthur: A pair of dragon siblings that Lords Snow and White sought to kill…

Figaro: They were incredibly powerful in their prime. Hearing that they killed a dragon isn't odd at all.

Arthur: Lord Figaro… You aren't looking well either, Lord Figaro. You're shouldering too much right now…

Figaro: I'm fine. I'm just feeling down about my own mistakes.

Arthur: Mistakes?

Figaro: I can keep treatment going until tomorrow morning. But if we can't come up with a way to actually cure him…

Cain and Chloe were listening in on our conversation, their faces downcast.

Chloe: Is there no antidote for the poison in Lord Snow…?

Cain: If you can't heal Lord Snow, that means Lord White won't come back either, right? Lords Snow and White have done so much for me, but I still haven't been able to pay back even an ounce of what I owe them. Is there anything we can do? Like, canvassing the wizards' market for ingredients for a cure, anything.

Cain's words reminded me of what Hwylryn had told me about the cintamani stones. He used to hold two cintamani stones, one of poison, and one of medicine.

Akira: (But Hwylryn only had one of the gems on his bracelet.) (The other one is… Right!) The cintamani stone of medicine… Hwylryn told me he had the cintamani stones of poison and medicine.

Cain: Cintamani stones? What are those?

Arthur: Lords Snow and White told me about them when I was little. They're gems with strange powers that appear in dragons' dens.

Akira: I think that's it, yeah. Hwylryn has the cintamani stone of poison set in the bracelet he wears… And as for the stone of medicine, he gave it to the Western witch… Right, he gave it to a Western witch named Melissa.

Arthur: The Western witch, Melissa… Have you heard of her, Chloe?

Chloe: Melissa… Umm… Right! Murr knows her! She's the Western witch who wanted to see the ends of the ocean!

Figaro: Think he'll give us any details? Let's see, where's Murr…

Murr: Melissa never came back to Western Country. Maybe she settled down in her very own paradise she found all on her own, or maybe she's at the bottom of the sea!

Rustica: Oh my… I'm back, Chloe.

Chloe: Murr, Rustica! What's wrong, is that…part of the mechanism in a magitech installation…?

Murr: It's a weapon the Western army's Magical Technology Corps made. Looks like they improved on it a little! And noooow it's your turn! Give us the details, Figaro. Who's Balthazar?

Figaro: …

Murr: Better start talking, or Lennox is gonna turn up without his head. Riiiight, Arthur?

Figaro: Excuse me?

Arthur: …The bodies of three large, muscular men have been found without their heads along the shore. Lennox fits the victim profile. It's entirely possible that it's just a coincidence, but it's just as likely that the person manipulating Lennox's body is the murderer of those three men.

Figaro: I see…

Murr: Whatever. Just ask Oz about it. I'm gonna go rescue Lennox and Shylock now. Arthur, you coming?

Figaro: Mu…

Arthur: Of course.

Cain: I'll lend a hand, too.

Chloe: Me too! I mean, we've gotta save Shylock!

Rustica: But of course. I imagine the Eastern and Southern wizards will want to assist as well.

Chloe: Murr, do you remember anything? You were super cool and totally kicked the butt of whoever sank Adams Island, right?

Murr: Mm-mm, I can't really remember… Though I did kick butt super cool and all that…

Rustica: I wonder what variety of "cool" it was…

Murr: No matter what kind it was, I was still super cool! I dunnoooo! I'm gonna go think about it while getting ready to go!

Chloe: Okay! Take care!

✦✧☾✧✦

Arthur: Murr, please wait!

Murr: What's up?

Arthur: I wanted to ask you about Shylock's abduction… Does it involve parts of Lord Oz's past that I don't know about?

Murr: Pretty sure, yeah.

Arthur: …I see. Alright. Thank you.

Murr: Arthur. It's okay if there's things you don't know. You don't have to force yourself to guess about or endure or accept what anyone's done in the past.

Arthur: …

Murr: And just so you don't get it twisted, I wanna say I don't dislike the bond you and Oz share. It's fascinating, and I can feel a lot of hope and possibilities inside of it. I even think it's wonderful. I'm not going to deny anything. I don't want to hurt you, and I want to respect the things you love. That said, if you don't get a proper explanation at the end of this and wind up having to clean up someone else's mess… That makes Oz a real piece of shit.

Arthur: … Thank you for worrying about me, Murr…

Murr: You're welcome. That's the first time someone's thanked me for saying shit!

Arthur: …And while Shylock's in so much trouble, too. I know he's a very precious friend to you.

Murr: I'd say you've got it worse right now. There's someone out there who hates the very person you love and respect so much. Northern wizards might fear him, but to you, he's the person who lovingly raised you. It must be hard.

Arthur: …sniff… …I'm sorry…I'm just feeling a bit weak… Lord White has vanished…and Lord Snow is suffering so terribly…and yet… I still can't bring myself to think of the surviving twin dragon as bad, not after hearing what the Sage had to say about him… Lord Oz, Lord Figaro, Lord Snow, and Lord White… They've always been so kind to me…sniff…so why… …And now Lennox and Shylock have gotten dragged into this mess…

Murr: Don't apologize, Arthur. This isn't something you should be apologizing for. I know I'm repeating myself, but this isn't something you can take responsibility for. Understand?

Arthur: …sniff…

Murr: Poor, poor Arthur. I can't believe things have gotten to where you'll cry in front of me…

Arthur: …uu…sniff…

Murr: Wanna see some fireworks?

Arthur: …yeah…

Next Chapter