#but she was very surprised i was an engineering major

[theresa-of-liechtenstein]

not my southeast asian music professor thinking i'm a music major and then trying to get me to join the orchestra i am already in. lmao

[caimitos]

there has Got to be a way for review sessions to be shorter than 10 hours a day. please. cause i start off so strong in the morning but by 3 PM i keep losing focus and start spiraling and questioning all of my life choices

[takumiraine]

Once Upon A Time Chapter 2

<prev> <next>

So Danny? 100% has PTSD. I do have a vague plan for this. And most of the next chap written. The Fentons may or may not be terrible parents. You’ll have to wait and see. I do have plans to break everyone’s hearts at least once. Anyways. This is considered my like…. Audience test before Ao3. Things may change. As a reminder all I know about dc is from fandom and wiki and everything I remember about dp is prob poorly remembered.

—

Once upon a time, there had been a young boy who was happy. Once upon a time, there was a young boy who had dreams and a future. Once upon a time, there was a boy who had been alive in every sense of the word. Once upon a time, everything shattered. Once upon a time, there was a man who was filled with anger. Once upon a time, there was a man just as alive as he was dead. Once upon a time, there was a man who was haunted and hunted.

As the stabbed kid shuffled off, leaving Jason baffled, he grabbed the guy who he had slammed into the wall. His head was bleeding but his breathing was steady and Jason huffed. He knew he definitely cracked the guy’s skull, but he had survived worse.

“O, what do we know on this guy?” He asked the woman in his ear. Oracle’s answer would determine whether he took the guy in to the ER or let him roll the dice of fate.

“Rap sheet about a mile long. Pretty basic stuff. Armed robbery, possession with intent, B&Es, assault and battery, the usual.”

Jason shrugged then and dropped the guy against the wall. Rolling the dice it was. He turned away, looking towards where the kid disappeared around the corner “and what about the guy he was mugging?”

“That’s where it gets weird.” Oracle’s typing was coming through loud and clear. “It’s hard to get a clear picture of him. He has some sort of distortion on the feed. Everything else comes out clear but…. He’s a mess of pixels. Voice too. Scrambled. It’ll take time.”

“Think he’s a meta?”

“Wouldn’t surprise me, considering he got knifed and just…. Walked off with it. Wonder what his issue with B is though.”

“Couldn’t tell you. Think it might be time to update my armor if I’m being lumped in with people B and the bird brains have pissed off.” Jason took an evidence kit out of his pocket and swiped at the blood on his chest. Old habits and all. “Got a sample of the kid’s blood though.”

“Good thinking. Wonder if he’s in any databases. I’ve got a cleaned up picture now. Enough that it’s pinging in GU’s database. Dan Nightingale, Mechanical engineering major. It says he’s 19, it’s his freshman year and he’s in like every remedial class he can take, high school transcripts are mediocre at best. No other information about him really. Rogue in the making that one.” Oracle reported. Jason groaned, grapneling up to the rooftops to follow where the kid went off to.

“Someone should keep an eye on him. Ugh. This’ll be a conversation for B and the birds won’t it? Kid won’t like having a bunch of birds following him.” Jason flicked through the different visual modes on his visor, finding…. Cold moving through one of the apartment buildings. It was human shaped, but where he expected to find heat…. “Weird…. You seeing this?”

“Very weird,” Barbara agreed, tapping into his visor’s feed. “And hey, you could just…. Not tell him. You wanted a Lit degree right? Go to class, befriend him. Do some recon.” Jason knew Babs always walked the fine line between what Bruce needed to know about the rest of them and what she had to keep secret to keep helping them. He didn’t envy her position. Jason still wanted Bruce to hurt sometimes. Not as much as he used to, something about the sins of the father and all that. He just wanted Bruce to be aware that everything he had ever hoped for his boy to be was… out of both of their reaches forever.

“That sounds annoying.” He was 23. He didn’t have any interest in taking on a degree on top of his full time crime fighting and criminal empire running jobs.

“Yeah, but what other choice do you have? It’s go back to school, tell B, or wait for him to become a rogue.”

“I hate you sometimes.” He muttered, unsure of what made him suddenly so interested in that angry guy.

“Feeling’s mutual Hood,” She replied with what was definitely a fond tone. He grimaced.

—-

In the apartment, Danny was less than thrilled. That was his favorite shirt! Now not only was it covered in blood, it had a huge hole in it. His core still thrummed with the urge to fight, but he tamped it down. Slowly, as he pulled the knife out, he sealed the wound with a layer of ice, pulling his shirt off and throwing it into the bathroom sink. The knife was dropped into the kitchen sink. His keys and phone in his bedroom on the battered nightstand next to the bed.

He returned to the bathroom and turned the water on cold. He let it spray full blast before working on scrubbing the blood from his shirt. He looked up to eye himself critically in the mirror before noticing the waistband of his jeans were saturated with blood too. Damn it. He kicked off his shoes and pulled his pants off, throwing them into the now overfilled sink. The bathtub would probably be a better choice. Turning off the sink and turning on the tub Danny picked up the sopping clothes and dropped them with a wet thump into the basin of the tub. Carefully he lowered himself onto the floor, wincing at the way pain clawed through him.

He would need to actually eat food to heal from this at any reasonable speed. He thought of the two dollars he had, then the emergency stash of….he racked his brain to remember how much of the emergency cash he was left with once he got to Gotham…right. Twenty bucks…. That was all he had in the wall.

He missed the days when Sam would just throw money at him whenever his parents forgot to do things like pay rent or put food in the fridge.

As if agreeing his stomach rumbled loudly, demanding actual food to sate the expense of energy healing his injury would take. He thought about calling Sam. Seeing if she could arrange a prepaid card for him. He knew she would in a heartbeat.

Even cut off from family money she seemed to be doing better than he was. Wracking his brain, Danny thought she was working in Bludhaven as some sort of personal assistant. He wasn’t sure if it was the exhaustion that came from sustaining a human body on nothing but ecto or if he had been too distracted in the moment to pay proper attention, but he couldn’t remember if that was right. Getting the blood out of his clothes he wiped at the remaining blood on his body, getting most of it off. He grabbed the clothes and turned off the water.

Slowly, Danny pushed himself to his feet. He had survived worse, multiple times. But pain never seemed to stop being painful. It lanced through his side and he almost fell back to his knees with the way it stole his breath and doubled him over. He wished he could go back to the Zone and just… wait it out. But in order to do that without drawing attention he’d need a portal. The only ones he knew of were either destroyed or…. Compromised.

Maybe he should call Vlad. Danny shook that thought away almost immediately as he realized how silly it was. Vlad spent most of his teen years antagonizing him. Besides the GIW had probably gotten to Vlad too. If he wasn’t captured he would likely be compromised. Memories of Amity Park flooded in before Danny could stop them. Of asking for help. Over and over. Of the GIW storming in and locking everything down. Of Danny frantically telling his parents, only for their eyes to dart to the kitchen before they could stop it. Of the sound of energy. The smell of his flesh burning. Of pain.

Danny forced himself to take a breath. He focused on the wet clothes in his hands. On the tiles beneath his feet. Of the too harsh fluorescents in the bathroom that buzzed. The sounds of the people above him arguing over bills and needing better jobs.

Slowly he banished the memories back where they belonged. He’d… figure it out. He had to. Somehow. For now, sleep. Danny hung up the wet clothes over the shower bar, made sure there was a towel on the floor and shuffled into the bedroom. Double checking that his alarm was set, even though his class wasn’t until early afternoon, he didn’t want to miss it, he slid into his bed and pulled the pile of blankets up over him.

Almost instantly, he was out.

—-

“B,” Jason said in lieu of a proper greeting as he stepped into the Batcave, hood tucked under his arm.

“Jason,” Bruce looked up and turned the surprised expression into something more fond. “To what do I owe the visit?”

Jason leaned against the rock. Foot braced against the wall. “I know semester’s already started, but something came up. How hard would it be to start at GU?”

Bruce stared at him for a long moment and Jason knew it was his way of trying to figure out what buttons to press. Then he tilted his head and turned back to the computer screen. “Not too hard. It is early yet. Anything I should know?”

“Babs was lonely.” It was an out and out lie, but it seemed to soften things in Bruce further, reminding him of the two children that failed him within months of each other.

“Hm.” Bruce was silent at his computer for a long moment. Convinced that was the end of the conversation, Jason tightened his grip on the helmet he had tucked under his arm. “Either way. It is a good choice. Literature?”

The comment and question rankled Jason, the thing from the pit scratching at his carefully contained emotions. Pushing for any crack. Bruce was trying he reminded himself. Too little too late, but trying.

“Yeah. Going in in the morning.”

“Should I call ahead?”

“No. I can handle it. If not I have no business being there.”

“You will do fine.” The ‘you are a Wayne’ was left unspoken.

Jason snorted. “Right. Good talk.”

“Are you staying the night?” An olive branch. Jason wanted to burn it. He tempered the impulse to a spark.

“I have my own place.”

“Your room is still yours when you want it.”

“Yeah. The room of the worst Robin in history. Pass.” Jason turned and walked stiffly back up the steps. Hearing the soft growl of Batman behind him. The start of an argument.

He considered it a victory that he didn’t run into any of his siblings or Alfred on the way out.

[possesseddesiress]

Between us (English Version)

CONTENT WARNING: This story includes themes of transformation and body control with a suggestive approach. If this type of narrative is not to your liking or you do not meet the recommended age, we suggest you do not continue. All images used (if any) belong to their respective owners. I claim no authorship over them and they are only used for illustrative purposes.

If you decide to go ahead, welcome to Possessed Desires, where mind and body are never completely under your control.

Between us (English version)

Iker and Yuki were very close, good friends. They had grown up together, being friends from a very early age, even though each one belonged to a different culture, they had gotten along well from the first minute they met. And from there, they did everything together, they never left each other's side.

Even though time would go by and they would change; by the time they reached adolescence, Iker started working out until he got a big and defined body, he was very muscular and a big hit with the girls.

On the other hand, Yuki remained small, thin, a bit effeminate, discovered a passion for fashion and identified as gay.

But despite those differences, they remained friends. They graduated, and chose the same university, Iker started studying engineering while Yuki majored in fashion, then they managed to rent an apartment in one of the dorms to be together.

Iker sometimes asked Yuki for help to dress better and surprise girls, Yuki to gain more muscle. Always helping each other.

That afternoon, they were both in a museum, it was their “afternoon together”, an occasion they set aside once a week to meet and spend time together away from everyday life and school.

— It's an interesting exhibition, isn't it? – Yuki murmured as they moved through the area of ancient cultures. Some sculptures, remains of ruins, contraptions.

— Yes, there are interesting things – Iker advanced next to him, between them there was a difference of at least 30 cm in height. Iker was almost two meters tall while Yuki was only 1.65 cm tall. And nothing to say about the difference between their musculatures or even their styles of dress, the Mexican wore more sporty styles while the Asian loved bright colors and more daring styles.

They ended up arriving at a remote area of the museum, still unfinished. Apparently there was no one watching, so Iker pushed aside a pair of curtains towards an exhibit in progress.

— I don't think we should do that – the smaller and more timid Yuki muttered.

— Come on, it's something new. Aren't you excited?

Yuki was silent for a while until she finally let out a sigh, nodding.

— Ok... Let's go.

They crossed the threshold before the bigger one dropped the cloth, the room was dimly lit, there were some pots, instruments and remains of rocks, nothing interesting or new. Until Iker seemed to notice something.

— Look at that – the brunet smiled as he saw something in the center of the room. It was some kind of mirror, its frame was made of stone, it looked quite old.

Although that wasn't the only thing special about it, it was also a kind of double mirror, but it was translucent in a very faint way. You could see your reflection and at the same time, barely see the other side.

The guys, excited by this discovery, stood in front of the mirror, each on one side. They looked at it curiously before they began to move in circles, examining.

— Wow... Where do you think it's from?

— No idea, but it looks ancient, probably one of the first cultures – Iker murmured.

— Is that so? How smart you are for studying engineering – Yuki joked with him.

— Excuse me, Mr. designer, maybe this is too much for your brain.

The guys began to joke with each other, though in a way the tone of the jokes began to rise.

—Surely you couldn't stand a day in my shoes – Yuki sentenced while looking at him with a mocking smile.

— Rather you couldn't be in mine, your manicure would be ruined by taking one of my weights.

— And your clumsy hands would ruin my designs.

— You wouldn't even know how to flirt with a girl.

— And you'd be scared to mess with another man.

Unnoticed, the mirror seemed to become charged with a very dim light.

— Surely you couldn't be in my body.

Iker whispered with narrowed eyes.

— You wouldn't last a week in mine.

Unnoticed by the boys. An energy shot out from under the mirror towards both of their feet. After that, they both walked out of the room as if nothing had happened.

And the rest of the day went on as normal, they went back to their room, had dinner, chatted for a while until they went to sleep.

In the night was when the “strange” happened. The same energy came out of their bodies and intertwined with each other, their energies were sucked and deposited into each other's body until they faded away.

The next morning, the first to wake up was Yuki. He felt strange from the first moment he opened his eyes, heavier? Had he eaten too much last night? He sat up in bed, sleepy and not seeing around him properly; he rubbed his face.

And then he felt it. He opened his eyes like plates noticing his huge brown hands, he looked around noticing that he was in Iker's room and not his own, it was filled with some sports and car posters, his weights on the floor and even the scent was totally his.

— Uh, uh... What is this?

He mumbled looking down at his pecs, weighing them, swallowing saliva. He felt huge, heavy, even silly.

Nothing compared to his old body, he was so thin and small, and overnight he went from being like this to this.

— This is wrong, this is wrong...

As he was thinking about it, he heard a familiar scream. He immediately got up to go to his room, where he saw his old body tangled in the sheets with a confused expression.

— What did you do, Yuki!? – he heard his former body say in an Asian accent. Just the way he used to talk.

He watched how he touched his body, his slender arms, her soft face, even how he took his tresses to observe them absorbed.

— Iker? – He said in her new deep voice.

— Who else would it be, silly!!!?

It was strange to see Yuki's body act like that, he was always reserved, quiet, didn't shout about almost anything. But now, it was clearly someone else who had command of his body.

The new Yuki stood up, examining himself from head to toe with a hint of disgust in his expression.

— Dude, my muscles are gone! – He could only see his thin outline. Palpating his chest to find something flat, he also touched his hips, noticing that there was the most amount of muscle there as well as on his thighs – Why does your body look like a girl's!!!?

— Shut up! Respect, I look like a Gorilla!

The New Mexican muttered.

He observed himself again in front of his friend this time, stroking his arms. He even sniffed slightly.

— Damn... Not bad.

He murmured smiling.

— Hey! Don't just take over my body like that!

— Don't you like it? Because your new body seems to say otherwise.

And indeed, it did. The new Yuki had an issue down there “down below”, he immediately covered himself with his hand, his face flushed.

— It's not my fault, it's your body!

—Well, that's weird. I don't feel like I'm lusting after some girl or something straight like that.

A smug smile appeared on her face as she stared at him.

— Get out of here!

Iker punched his former body in the arm, Yuki just let out a couple of laughs as he left the room. He returned to the room which corresponded to his body, still not believing that the two had swapped.

He had always felt comfortable being small, effeminate, very happy in his body.

But now... he felt different. Masculine, powerful, imposing. He peeked into his friend's closet, his clothes were spandex, sweatpants, compression shirts, some plaid shirts, all a far cry from his typical tops or stylish t-shirts.

He took one of the compression shirts to put it on, and strangely discovered a taste he experienced for the first time: how tight it felt.

He brought his hands back to his pecs, enjoying how wide and big they felt, he was playing with them when Iker walked in.

— Stop playing with them, they're not balls.

—They look like it.

Yuki paid attention to his old body, noticing the clothes he was wearing.

—Wow...

— Don't say anything.

The old Iker muttered a bit annoyed, now he was wearing quite “stylish” clothes, a white shirt made of what seemed to be silk, a neat pair of pants and a golden chain.

Not at all similar to what he would wear being himself, so he felt like a sort of “Barbie Girl”: with curls, nice clothes, smooth skin and perfume. He didn't even know how he ended up getting dressed up like that, it was like going into automatic mode.

— What now? – He muttered moodily.

— What do you mean, what now? – Yuki raised her eyebrow.

— Yeah. Are we going to go to our classes, lock ourselves in until we figure out how to solve this?

The opposite one was thoughtful, then he swallowed saliva as he remembered something.

— No, no... I can't skip today.

— What? Why?

— I have a very important presentation today, me lleva la chingada – he said in a perfect Mexican accent. Which stunned both of them. The silence was awkward until Yuki spoke again – It's about my dressmaking subject, I have to present my final project.

— The dress you've been working on for weeks?

— Yes, yes. It's my final project, it's 100% of the grade.

The now huge boy sat up in bed, overwhelmed. The remaining one came over to try to comfort him.

— Then I'll go in your place.

— You don't know anything about dresses, the only thing you know is how to take them off – he muttered overwhelmed.

— Hey, don't overdo it. I'm not as dumb as you think. Besides, if this happened – Iker pointed to his clothes – Don't you think I can manage to present your project?

They looked at each other for a while, to which the now dark-haired man let out a resigned sigh.

— All right, I'll trust you.

They both ended up leaving the apartment. Yuki heading to the engineering department while Iker to the design department, making a promise to try to be as similar to their new bodies as possible. Iker didn't want to see his body acting feminine, nor did Yuki want to see hers acting like a guy with no brain cells.

Iker advanced through the corridors, still getting used to feeling small, he felt that his gait had even changed, as if he now “floated”, before he felt that his steps echoed everywhere because of his musculature, but now, he was as agile as a feather.

He was turning the corner towards the living room, he had about 15 minutes to spare to get there. When he ran into a guy.

— Hi, Yuki – a muscular guy seemed to stop him in his tracks.

— Hi, Adam – it was hard for him not to be surprised when he recognized the boy's name.

— How are you? You didn't call me last night – the opposite gently closed the distance while staring at him with a flirtatious smile.

— I was... busy – he whispered as he watched him approach, but he seemed to be petrified. He wanted to move but couldn't, he just watched him getting closer and closer.

— It's a pity... – Iker felt a series of things seeing that boy flirting with him exactly as he used to do with girls – I really missed your company – he murmured, starting to caress his curls.

And when he least expected it. He kissed him.

For a second he felt disgusted to feel another man kissing him, but the more the seconds passed, it felt so natural...

He kissed him at a slow start, but he wanted more, he wanted more, he needed more. Iker turned up the intensity of the kisses, almost occupying his tongue as he held the guy against himself.

— Wow, someone looks excited. What's wrong? You look different today.

— Nothing – he mumbled with a silly grin on his face – I guess it's a new day.

They chatted for a while, kissed some more and he even liked the feeling when Adam grabbed him by the waist to hold on to him.

He ended up going into Yuki's classroom, and finally presented his project. It was as if his knowledge in engineering had been replaced by knowledge in fashion, tailoring, dressmaking, he knew exactly what fabric his friend had used, the type of closure, embossing, the falls. He had even achieved a perfect grade in that exhibition.

On the other hand, Yuki was anxiously sitting in his classroom, until a couple of Iker's friends arrived.

— What's up, bro? – the typical stereotypical brainless jock approached him, surrounded by at least 3 other guys just like him.

Yuki was silent for a microsecond before a strange outburst came from him.

— Bro! How are you?

He stood up, bumped fists with the guy and even his pectorals with each other. He never thought he would do anything so... Masculine.

And he even did it with the other three, as if it was something natural in him. He talked to them, and a series of sports knowledge, Iker's conquests, and more topics outside of him, came naturally out of his mouth, in addition to an extremely masculine personality where most of the vocabulary was based on: “Bro”.

— And today you will see Monica?

His mind immediately went into action, apparently Iker had forgotten to mention that he had a date today.

— Yep, bro – he nodded – We'll go for a coffee in an hour.

He was nervous inside himself, what would he do when he was with her? Would he feel attraction? Would he flirt with her? What if they ended up entangled in...?

No, no. He tried not to think about it. His class moved quickly. He had always been bad at math, but now he seemed to have mastered the subject from top to bottom, even complex physics topics, he knew it all.

His subject was over, and apparently the appointment he had pending was five minutes away.

— Good luck, bro! Monica certainly is a good catch, she has good “attributes” – the guys laughed to each other to leave the room and leave him alone.

Yuki felt overwhelmed, but he knew that this was something important for Iker, so he was forced to go. He ended up arriving at the cafe and saw the girl waiting for him: red-haired, slim, she was quite cute.

The boy didn't feel... anything, though. He admired her beauty, no doubt, but he didn't feel attracted.

He sat in the chair across from her and they both began to talk.

For hours.

Strangely, Yuki felt a great friendship with the girl, as if the chemistry between them flowed naturally.

— You're so funny, Iker! I thought you'd be an airhead like all your friends.

— Well, that's me, I guess – he smiled slightly. His heart was beating fast, what if she was already trying to kiss him? He wasn't feeling any heterosexual “urges” in Iker's body. That was worrying him, he had felt an automatic mode with his friends, with his subjects and knowledge? So why wasn't it happening now?

— I'm glad you're like that. But... I think we've been getting along really well and I don't want to ruin that, would you rather we stayed friends? – the girl smiled softly. And that was quite a relief for him. Yuki nodded.

— I'd love to.

They chatted for a while more until they said goodbye. Yuki thought about going back home but he felt anxious, like he will need something to be well, so he thought about going to the gym. He knew where Iker went to work out, so he immediately set off.

And again on autopilot he began to exercise, loving the way he felt his muscles pumping, how they swelled and became big as they flexed. How much he could carry!

Even how stinky his body was starting to get, how the sweat soaked into his clothes to make them damp and clingy. He felt ecstatic, lost in all those sensations.

He was powerful, big, huge, his pecs were so fat and thick! What could he say about his arms, they were fantastic without a doubt!

He smiled egocentrically, seeing himself through the reflection. There was hardly anyone in the gym, so he fearlessly lifted his armpit to start sniffing it, losing himself in his senses.

— Pff... How stinky... – he muttered. He stuck out his tongue, starting to lick himself, enjoying both the aroma and the taste of his sweat. He caressed his pectorals, he knew that partly all that acting was wrong, that was the body of Iker, his best friend.

But geez... He wasn't blind. He knew what a great catch Iker was even if he wasn't gay. But he wouldn't say it out loud in front of him, much less that he'd had more than one dream involving him.

And now he had him all to himself.

He continued with that exploration session until he was finally bored. He picked up his things and left in the direction of the apartment.

Where Iker had a “curious” moment as well. His rest of the day had been relaxed, taking classes, talking with Yuki's friends.

He discovered how interesting he now found fashion, pop music and things that although he didn't dislike, he didn't find so relevant either.

He even took a few “cute” pictures throughout the day, he was liking the feeling of being this small.

Even how other men saw him, besides the clear fact that he had made out with Adam even walking out of class.

He felt an urge that seemed born. He'd seen a few girls, even Yuki's friends, several of them he found pretty and desirable in more ways than one when he was himself, but now. He didn't pay even the slightest attention to the areas he used to look at when it came to a girl.

On the contrary, now he did that with guys: he noticed their pecs, their big muscles, their biceps. He had seen a pretty muscular guy in shorts and a tank top and almost went crazy right there.

When he got home, he found the apartment completely alone, although he didn't really care, he went into his new room right away to check his closet.

And started trying on clothes. He admired Yuki's style, some of his outfits looked cute, but he had never thought of wearing something like that.

But now he was wearing each one of his outfits, trying different tops, sweaters, tight pants, he even ventured to try Yuki's underwear, some of them were really revealing...

But he liked the silhouette what his body was adopting now, how her hips or her buttocks looked. The more he went through his closet and drawers, he ended up finding something: a toy.

It looked elongated, somewhat thick. He had never occupied something like that, if another kind of toys a little more in line with his sexuality, since he had never thought of putting something “in there”.

But now he felt an urge, too strong to ignore, it was like that urge to exercise that he had being him.

He lay back on the bed, carefully settled the toy against his entrance and gently let it go. He let out a sigh and a confused gasp at the sensation it gave; he thought it would hurt.

But it seemed like Yuki already had experience with it when he noticed how he managed to enter without any problems.

Iker almost screamed at the top of his lungs when he finally found that sensitive spot, he almost seemed to see stars. He immediately began to pound the area like crazy, pulling the tool in and out, he was anxiously moving against the bed, sweating and with a flushed face.

It was all chaos, he lost complete track of his surroundings, and that's why he didn't even notice that Yuki had come home.

Yuki was about to say hello out loud when he heard noises coming from her room, he didn't even take the moment to listen anymore, he knew exactly what was going on.

His heart pounding with excitement as he took step after step towards the open door of his room, he peeked his head out. And then he saw him:

His body moving against the sheets, tangled at his feet and no clothes on him, his hands wrapped around his manhood, the toy skewered. His white skin filled with beads of sweat, the scent alone that permeated the entire room...

It was like activating something inside him.

— Y-Yuki! – Iker opened his eyes in fright when he felt the hands of his opponent against his body and felt him on top of him.

— Shhh...

— I-it's n-it's not what it looks like, I-I...

— Save it.

Yuki muttered gravely, he grabbed his former body's hips to feel his skin, which made Iker let out a mute gasp.

— W-wait. W-what w-what are you w-what are you doing?

The former Mexican closed his eyes as he enjoyed the sensation of the huge brown hands resting on him.

— I told you... I don't feel anything straight in this body.

And with that, he stamped his now lips with his old ones, enjoying the unbridled sensation of kissing and touching between the two.

He got rid as best he could of everything that was in his way so that they were skin against skin. He kept kissing him, feeling Iker's nervous hands work their way down his pecs, which he played with like a fool, pressing the reliefs.

Yuki grabbed the toy to pull it out all at once, which caused a yelp from Iker.

— W-what do you plan to do?

—Shhh... Let yourself go.

He mused until he skewered his manhood into him all at once, this caused Iker to roll his eyes with a goofy grin, almost as if his brain cells were melting. It was a racket, the sound of flesh hitting flesh, the gasps and grunts, the grinding of wood, the slender legs of Yuki's original body wrapped around Iker's thick hips.

— Ah!

— Tell me Iker.

— W-what?

— Tell me Iker, Yuki.

The Mexican hesitated a moment to answer, though his brain was fucked at that point.

— Yes, Iker! Yes!

The two of them stayed like that for almost the whole night, until they woke up hugging each other.

They didn't even think about how to solve that "problem", they both felt comfortable as they were, there was no need to go back to being who they were.

Iker settled completely into being Yuki. He became an even better designer, hung out with his friends, enjoyed his new career and all the opportunities in it.

Yuki also became completely comfortable with being Iker. He loved exercise, sports, spending time with his new friends, even if they were a bit “dorky” from what he was used to.

And even better, he enjoyed his new boyfriend. Now everything was as it should be, just between them.

———

I hope you enjoyed this story as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you liked it, don't forget to follow it and share it so more people can discover it.

I'm always open to suggestions and ideas, so if you have any fantasy or scenario in mind, let me know in the comments or in messages.

See you in the next story... Who knows what body you will occupy this time?

———

[arc-misadventures]

Boom. Boom. Boom. Boom.

Within the frozen tundra stood a small flag, it's red cloth gentle waved in the cool, Atllas air. Around the flag it was peace, it was silent, it was tranquility incarnate. A tranquility that ended in a plume of fire, and metal shrapnel.

The peace of the frozen tundra had ended. The peace ending with the deafening cries of war.

The gun's of, Mantle were ready.

~~~

: Direct hit!

Jaune watched through his binocs as the red flag they had planted in the frozen fields of, Atlas evaporate into a plume of fire, smoke, and snow. Jaune put down the binocs, and turned to look at the newly promoted, Colonel Kian, shouted triumphantly as the howitzers hit their intended target dead on.

Colonel Alden Kian, in charge of all the newly built artillery batteries, and weapon emplacements upon, Mantle's walls. Jaune liked to think he developed a good relationship among fellow officers, even if, Jaune really felt like one.

Col. Kian: And, with that, all weapon emplacements have been built, and properly calibrated.

Jaune: Well done, Col. Kian, and to you as well, Maj. Skender. The forces under your command managed to compete the wall, ahead of schedule at that.

Maj. Skender: Thanks, Jaune, Yeah, I'm glad we listened to your suggestions. Honestly, I'm surprised that we got this done far sooner than we expected.

Jaune: It was just a suggestion, Felix. I will tank none of the credit, it was all you, and your men's work that finished the walls ahead of schedule.

: A duty well done at that.

Jaune, Maj. Skender, and Col. Kian all turned to see, General Ironwood as well as, Specialist Schnee approaching them. The trio as well as any other soldiers on the wall saluted the, General as he walked upon the ramparts.

Ironwood: Well done, Maj. Skendor, thanks to your efforts, the new fortifications for the walls of, Mantle have finished well ahead of schedule. With that in mind, how soon can your forces return to building the new, CCTS?

Maj. Skender: Uhhh... We should be able to start in a we...?

Skender was about to answer, General Ironwood, but he saw, Jaune holding up a single finger, giving him a clear sign of what he had to say.

Maj. Skender: In a day, Sir. We just need to reorganize, and require all of the necessary equipment. This should take no longer than a day, day, and a half tops.

Ironwood: Oh, that's good! That's very good to hear, Major, I look forward to hearing your progress in the coming days.

General Ironwood then made his way to leave. As, Jaune watched him leave, his eyes locked on with, Winter's, who shot him a wink as she left. Jaune watched them until he was out of earshot where he let out a tired sigh, followed by several others. But, most noticeable, Major. Skender was cursing up a storm.

Maj. Skender: Gods fucking dammit, Jaune! It going to take me at least a week to grab all of our gear to start working on, Ironwood's pet project! Why the hell did you tell me to speed things up?!

Jaune: Because, General Ironwood wasn't her to celebrate the walls completion, he was here to make sure you got back to work on his stupid project. Besides you just need to divide your forces; half starts working on the CCTS, the other gets your gear.

Col. Kian: He's right, Felix. The generals sole focus was on his project, he doesn't give a damn about the wall. If it wasn't for, Jaune donating his winnings, it never would have been built!

Maj. Skender: I know that! I'm just blaming him for all the shit they're going to give me now!

Jaune: Wait, hold on. Why are you saying I'm the one donated the funds, the winner of that game donated the funds.

Col. Kain: Yeah, but everyone knows you're the one who managed to convince, General Ironwood, and you're the one whose been presenting, Robyn Hill as the one who really got this thing going, but everyone in the, Engineer Corp, and the Gunnery Crews know it was you.

Maj. Skender: Yeah, this was the first time, General Ironwood ever showed his face around here. He only agreed to this thing as a PR stunt. He's only focused on his stupid 'secret project.' You're the only one in the upper brass that gives a rats ass about the wall, and Mantle.

Jaune: ...

Jaune: Okay, it wasn't my idea, I got the idea from, Robyn Hill. But, how the hell did you even know I was the one who donated the funds for the wall?

Col. Klen: My wife is a secretary, and secretaries like to gossip. One of them heard the donation was from one of the, Specialist, and that, Specialist also convinced, General Ironwood to build the fortifications on the wall. And, since you're the only, Specialist who's shown to give a damn about the wall. It's gotta be you.

Jaune: ...

Jaune: Haa...

Jaune: Does everyone know it was me?!

Jaune looked around, and saw several of the gunnery, and engineers all nodding their head, and making sounds of agreement. Jaune just slapped a hand to his face as a tired groan escaped his lips.

Jaune: Gods dammit...

Jaune: If the secretaries know it was me, everyone in the whole of, Atlas, and Mantle probably know it was me.

Maj. Skender: Yeah.

Col. Klen: Pretty much.

Jaune: Haa... Do you know any of my other secrets?

Col. Klen: You, and, Specialist Schnee are a thing... of some sorts.

Maj. Skender: Rumors say, Robyn Hill has got a thing for you, since you saved her from that assassin fellow.

Jaune stared at the two officers, his face was a blank, the only thing showing any emotion was the way his eye was twitching aggressively.

Jaune: ...

Jaune: FUCKKKK!?!

SK: ...

Col. Klen: I hope he, and Specialist Schnee become a thing... They look good together.

Maj. Skender: Wife is rooting for him, and Robyn Hill. She thinks they look cute together.

Col. Klen: They do look cute together.

Jaune: Shut up!

SK: Sorry, Sir!

~~~

Robyn: Wait... Members of the, Atlas military know about your thing with, Winter Schnee, and about our thing too?

Jaune: Yes, it seems the well kept secret wasn't that well kept enough!

Robyn: It was a secret?

Jaune: Not anymore, because secretaries like to gossip! And, the blooming romances between a pair of, Specialists, and a Specialists, and a politician seems to be todays latest hot topic!

Robyn: Oh, is that so?

Robyn: ...

Robyn: Am I winning?

Jaune just stopped to stare at, Robyn, giving her a blank stare as she cheekily smiled back at him.

Jaune: I liked you better when you were this cold, politician who hated me because I was a, Specialist working for, General Ironwood. Not this cute, blushing, teasing girl from a high school romcom!

Robyn: You think I'm cute~?

Jaune: Shut up!

Jaune sighed in defeat as, Robyn was laughing at his expense. He decided it would be for the best if to change the topic back to what he had originally came here to inform her about.

Jaune: Ahem! Anyway, I am here to inform you that the wall's fortifications have been finished, and we will be going back to work on, General Ironwood's secret project. And, with that, the elections for a new council member will be held in just over a week. So, are you ready, 'Councilwoman' Robyn Hill?

Robyn: I am most looking forward to it! The polls that have been going around saying that I am a sure in to win the election! Hey, Jaune?

Jaune: Hmm?

Robyn: You'll keep your promise; you'll tell me what, General Ironwood's secret project is if I win, right?

Jaune: Unless by some miracle he tells you himself, I'll keep my word, Robyn, and I'll tell you what he's up to.

Robyn: I'll hold you to that, Jaune. Well, I still got to keep my guard up, just because their already setting up the voting booths doesn't mean I've already won.

Jaune: Voting booths? Why do they need to set them up, they're just boxes you put paper into.

Robyn: They're electronic, it takes them a few days to take them out, and set them up.

Jaune was walking about, his mind running with ideas on how, Robyn could challenge, Ironwood's authority. But, all these thoughts were brought to a screeching halt when, Robyn said that one word.

Jaune: They're electronic? The voting boots are electronic?

Robyn: Yeah, been that way for years.

Jaune: Do you know where they keep these voting booths?

Robyn: Not originally, but I do know they set them up at one of the community halls near here.

Jaune: If you'll excuse me, Miss Hill.

Jaune quickly turned, and made his way out of the, Happy Huntresses Headquarters.

Robyn: Wha...? Jaune, where are you going?

Jaune: To win you this election.

~~~

Community Hall #7. Aka, the Dust Miners Den.

Jaune had entered the community hall flashing his credentials as a, Specialist to gain entry. And, now he was, what one would call interrogate one of the technicians, grilling him on all of the operating's of the voting booths.

Jaune: Tell me, Jirina, how do this machine operate.

Jirina, a olive haired snake faunas, if one could assume so based on the scales on her forehead, and slit yellow eyes was fidgeting around nervously. It was understandable reactions, it should be expected when one of, Atlas's Specialist suddenly showed up, and demanded how to do their job.

Jirina: W-Well... The system works by simply tapping a name on the screen, thus counting this as a vote. That vote then gets sent to a datahub where the votes are all tallied up.

Jaune: The machine says, 'Yes,' and 'No.' You're not putting in the names of the electoral candidates until the day of the election?

Jirina: Yes, this prevents cheating.

Jaune: 'Prevents cheating?'

Jaune moved over, and tapped the yes button on the screen. It closed out, and a popup appeared saying, 'Thank you for voting,' then another screen appeared saying waiting for election official to reset.

Jaune: You have to reset it every time someone votes?

Jirina: Yes. After everyone votes, we, the voting regulators, have to swipe our id cards, and input a eight digit code to reset the machine.

As, Jirina did just as she said when she reset the machine, taking her no more than ten seconds.

Jaune: Interesting... Are you capable of knowing how many voted, and who they voted for on your tablet there?

Jirina: Ahh yes... See?

Jirina handed, Jaune her tablet, and he saw on the tablet a total amount of votes, five, and there was, two votes for, 'Yes,' and three for, 'No.'

Jaune: Are these numbers for each of the machines here?

Jirina: Yes, we have four voting booths here, and we 'vote' at least once on each machine to test them.

Jaune: And, all of the information of the votes is sent to a central hub that tallies up the votes, the location, and other such things?

Jirina: Yes, that is how it acts.

Jaune: So that's how he could do it...

Jirina: Do... do what?

Jaune: Nothing that you need concern yourself with, Ma'am.

Jaune was still looking at the screen on the tablet, when he heard the door open behind him. He turned to face them, as he saw someone enter the room. One, Penny Polendina to be precise.

Jaune: Ahh, Penny you made good time getting here.

Penny: It didn't take me long to get here. Now, you asked for my help?

Jaune: Yes I did; See this electronic voting booth here?

Penny: I can. But, why do you want me to do that?

Jaune: I want to see if it can be done, and if you can, what else you can do.

Penny: Okay.

Jirina: Wait, you can't hack these systems; They have been given advance firewalls, and cybersecurity to prevent such things fro...?!

Penny: I've hack the voting booth.

Jirina: W-What?

Jaune: That didn't even take you thirty seconds; Impressive. Now then can you change the text on the screen for who you can vote for?

Penny: Can I change it. Wat do you want me to make it say?

Jaune: It doesn't matter, I mostly want to see if you can.

Penny: Okay. I've changed it.

Jaune: Okay let's...

Jaune looked at the voting booth, the screen now read, 'I'm sorry for.' and 'forgetting you, Jaune.' He stared at the screen for a moment before hitting the one that said sorry, and then the reset banner appeared.

Jaune: Penny can you reset the machine?

Penny reset it in a flash, only this time it read, 'I had a virus,' and 'It was making me forget.' Jaune looked at the screen, then to the tablet in his hand.

Jaune: There are six votes in total, evenly split, can you make it five to one?

Penny: Okay.

Jaune watched as, Penny reset the votes were five to one. Jaune watch it, and as the voting was rewritten as, 'I'm sorry, Jaune,' and 'Can you please forgive me.'

Jaune watched this all happen as he handed the tablet back to, Jirina.

Jaune: Thank you for your time, Jirina. Penny, let's go. I need to have a word with, General Ironwood, and I need you there with me.

Penny: O-Okay, Jaune...

~~~

Ironwood: The voting booths can be hacked?

Jaune: Yes, Sir, very easily at that. It took, Penny her barely thirty seconds to hack the machine, and completely rewrite the system.

Ironwood: Is this true, Penny?

Penny. Yes, Sir. Specialist Arc asked me to come down to one of the voting stations, and asked me to hack the system.

Ironwood: And, why did you ask, Penny to do this, Specialist Arc?

Jaune: I heard that the election being held in, Mantle was being held in a week. I was curious about how, Atlas does things. When I went there I found out that you use electronic voting booth. I saw several posters of the people running for election, and I saw one of the posters was for, Robyn Hill. I remembered her assassination attempt, and how destabilizing her death would be for, Atlas, and Mantle. I think a similar effect would happen if she lost the election, not to the same extent, but nonetheless.

Jaune: After, Penny hacked the system, I found out she was able to manipulate the votes in several different ways; From changing the names, resetting the machines, and even alter who got the total amount of votes.

It was another partial lie, Jaune caught himself noting that he often gave, General Ironwood such answers when he asked him about anything. It got the job done in the end.

Ironwood: To what end did you do this for, Specialist Arc?

Jaune: If, Penny can manipulate the systems so easily, what can a person like, Arthur Watts do?

Ironwood: You're worried that he will rig the election in his favour?

Jaune: Yes, Sir. I recommend we replace the voting machines with paper ballots to insure, Salem, and her minions do not interfere with the elections.

Ironwood pressed his fingers together as he solemnly nodded his head.

Ironwood: This is a wise decision to make. I'll make the necessary arrangements. Well done, Specialist. You may have undermined, Arthur Watts in a way we did not expect.

Jaune: Thank you, Sir!

Ironwood: Now then, head to the meeting room, Specialist Ebi wants to discuss a mission with you. Your dismissed.

Jaune: Sir!

Jaune saluted, General Ironwood, and made his way out of his office. as soon as he was out of the room, a tired sigh escaped his lips. He stood there for a moment as he steadied his nerves. He had made a gamble to try. and get, General Ironwood to replace the voting booth with paper ballots. He knew, General Ironwood wouldn't give a damn about paper ballots considering it had nothing to do with his, CCTS project, but nonetheless.

He had to play his cards right with him.

Jaune: Okay... Let's go see what...?!

Penny: Jaune!

Jaune stopped in his place as, Penny came up to him, a nervous jitter in her stance as she looked at him.

Penny: D-Did I help you?

Jaune: Yep, you did precisely what i hoped you would do. Thank you for helping me, Penny.

Penny: Oh... t-thank you, Jaune.. I... oh?

Penny stopped talking as she felt, Jaune's hand on her head, gently ruffling her hair.

Jaune: I know you want to apologize to me for all that has happened, Penny, but you must understand: There is nothing you need to apologize for, Penny. I was never angry with you. I just felt sorry for you for all that happened to you. I was hurting because I lost, Pyrrha. And, you were hurting because she accidently killed you. She hurt us in ways we didn't expect, but neither of what happened to us was her fault. Cinder killed, Pyrrha, and she tricked her into killing you. It's, Cinder's fault, Penny. There is no one to blame, but her. Okay?

Penny was shaking as she brought her hands to her face, whipping away the tears in her eyes.

Penny: T-Thank you, Jaune.

Jaune: You're welcome, Penny. But, I just have one question for you.

Penny: W-What... (Sniff...) What is it, Jaune?

Jaune: Do you hate me, Penny?

Penny looked at, Jaune tears in the corner of her eyes as she smiled at him.

Penny: No, I don't hate you, Jaune.

Jaune smiled at her in turn as he took his hand off her head.

Jaune: You didn't hiccup.

Penny: I didn't.

Jaune: Well, I best get going, and see whatever it is, Clover wants from me. I'll see you later, Penny.

Penny: Wait!

Jaune: Hmm?

Penny: Can I... Can I come with you, Jaune?

Jaune smiled as he beckoned her with his hand to follow him.

Jaune: Come on, Penny let's get going.

Penny: Yes. Lets!

[theanonymousscop]

IMAGINE: revealing your healing powers to save your boyfriend.

WARNINGS: none. just fluff. not edited. part 1

Sweetest strangers, bear in mind, English is not my first (or even my second) language. Inevitably so, you are going to encounter some questionable mistakes. Feel free to express yourself and offer suggestions/corrections. Any sort of criticism is welcomed with open arms.

!!ATTENTION!!

I'm not very keen on the idea of anyone copying my work. So, in the possible late future, if this one-shot is ever duplicated and posted on another platform by another user and you happen to discover it, please alert me. Your help will be greatly appreciated.

🤍*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•* 🤍

dedicated to @JulzLovDraco4Eva on wattpad, who gave me the idea.

pictures from pinterest

| Taylor Lautner as Jacob Black |

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Isabella Swan, the new girl at Forks High School, who everyone thought of as a shy introvert. To you, she was anything but that. When you first met the girl, you feared you’d touch her and she’d melt out of nervousness. But as the year progressed, she proved to differ. With the right crowd, she was one of the most sociable and talkative people you’ve ever met. Sometimes, you wondered how the Cullen boy kept up with her while being at the peak of the emotional detachment pyramid.

You knew Edward since the start of your freshman year. His family was surprisingly close to your mother. But after her death, they avoided you and your father like a plague. They always sent you glances that sometimes lingered longer than your comfort allowed you to tolerate.

Alice Cullen, differently from the rest of them, openly greeted you anywhere you'd encounter her and you always noted a sad, remorseful look that resided in her eyes.

All of the other Cullens, however, seemed to care less for your essence until last year, when Bella rolled into your life, dragged you out of your little bubble and formed a profound bond with that peculiar family.

For some unknown reason, she was keen on encouraging you to make new friends while she herself was attached to her boyfriend's hip all day, every day. You figured she felt sorry for how you spent the majority of your precious time in solitude, unaware of how much you adored those moments alone with no one to cause you any trouble.

One day, hell-bent on 'helping' you find new friends, she decided to take the matter in her own hands.

Hence here you stood, outside her house, waiting for her to make haste.

You were told you were going to the movies, alone.

You watched her stumble out of the threshold, carrying a small container in her hands, almost risking a fall and dropping its components.

You could hear an incomprehensible shout behind her and saw Charlie waving at you through the glass window, casting death glares at his daughter combined with concern for whatever she had done to rile him up.

You shook your head at their usual antics and hugged Bella. ''I'm sorry you had to wait,'' she says, opening the front door to her truck ''I was actually hoping to drop this off at Billy's first, if that's okay.'' she continues, holding up the container that smelled of homemade food.

''Yeah, sure.'' You nod before getting into the passenger seat. You smiled at the thought of Bella's kind gesture, sometimes she still takes you by surprise.

You've heard her talk about Billy Black, an old Swan family friend. He relies on a wheelchair to move around due to nerve damage and lives near La Push with his son, whom Bella never shuts up about.

She turned the key and the vehicle shook slightly as the engine sputtered a little before settling into a steady rhythm. By now, you are familiar with her truck's routine. It wasn't the bestest transportation but so long as you didn't have to walk to school you were grateful for it.

You pulled out of the driveway and ventured to La Push.

The sun was almost low and you could feel the last of its rays through the window as you passed many trees, humming to the soft rock music playing in the background. You eased into your seat as the warmth that originated from the heater filled the car, mixing with the strong scent of coffee.

Nestling in your comfy place, you zoned out for about ten minutes. Sadly, there wasn't much time to spare for relaxing as soon your little journey reached its end.

When Bella stopped the truck, she turned towards you ''We'll be in and out in a minute, I swear.'' You watched her get out and followed pursuit.

First thing you did after freeing yourself from that sweet cage where you nearly dozed off was taking a deep breath, inhaling all the fresh air which was suddenly cold making it hard for you to stay immobile in your place.

You shifted your weight from one leg to another as Bella knocked on the door and waited for someone to answer.

Distant footsteps sounded through the hall, getting closer and louder by each instant.

You were both shivering and waited impatiently for the person on the other side to rescue you. Bella even started beating the door with frustration, yelling at someone you didn't know.

"Jake! Open the damn door!"

When she tried to knock again, the door flew open, and she almost punched a guy.

"Geez, Jake, you could've waited a little longer and let us freeze to death!" Bella exclaimed, pushing past him.

You were about to follow her, you swear you had all the intentions to, but then you saw him.

He stood there, effortlessly handsome—his raven-black hair falling messily around his face, his warm russet skin glowing in the dim light. His dark brown eyes twinkled, a mischievous spark lighting up his gaze as he looked at Bella, and you couldn't help but notice how impossibly beautiful he was.

For a moment, you just stood there, lost in the alluring elegance he seemed to carry without even trying.

He was . . . majestic, to say the least. Ethereal, even.

When his eyes met yours, you noticed a stiff shift in his posture and the brief glint in his gaze. You didn't want to look away, you had never felt so insanely attracted to a guy ever before.

He didn't attempt to move either so you both stood there for what seemed like a gazillion light hours until Bella popped up behind him.

"Y/n?"

The call of your name pulled you both out of your stance. You felt the heat reaching your face and you couldn't help but avert your gaze.

Only after shifting your view, did you realize he was half exposed.

His bare chest was broad for his age. His abs were well-formed, hinting at a lot of time spent outdoors or training, and his arms looked soft but defined in a way that made him look extremely athletic. His tan skin stretched smoothly over his lean yet muscle-bound frame, making him look almost too perfect for someone so young.

You blushed harder as his shirtless image engraved in your mind. Not that you had any complaints but how the hell was he surviving in this cold with no shirt on?

He cleared his throat.

Bella chimed in again, caughting up to her friend's signs. "Oh sorry, Y/n meet Jacob. Jacob meet Y/n."She pointed at you back and forth.

Jacob offered you a small smile which you returned with a genuine one and introduced yourself formally with a brief handshake that managed to evoke a wave of turbulence all over your body.

Neither of you made any attempt to let go. He was warm, despite the lack of appropriate clothing. Not just warm in the sense of emitting too much heat but as in snuggly. Like a cozy blanket you'd wrap around yourself on a dreary day.

Eventually, you both separated your hands and just stood awkwardly near each other while your friend disappeared in the kitchen.

"Where's Billy?" she popped her head out of the door frame.

"Harry's son was having some issues so he had to go."

After a wholesome conversation about what and why, Bella asked Jacob to join you both for the movies. At first he was skeptical and didn't want Billy to come back and find the house vacant. But after a brief call, Billy insisted, saying he had plans of his own with his friends.

So you three left for the cinema. Since Bella's truck wasn't going to fit you all, you decided to walk- more like they forced you to walk convincing you it wasn't that far of a location.

Mental note: never trust Bella's sense of orientation again.

You kept the mood alive by making small-talk. Bella was excited for the upcoming prom while Jacob was barely stressed for his exams.

Mid conversation you couldn't help but steal glances in his way every five minutes. He seemed to have noticed this pattern as well as he met your gaze for the umpteenth time, making you flustered.

Bella, however, was completely oblivious to the exchange of stares between you, a trait that seemed all the more typical given how caught up she was in her own world.

When you finally reached the cinema, you were out of breath and completely worn out to the point of struggling to avoid drifting into a deep slumber right on the spot.

So you stayed back and waited for them to make the infinite line and buy the tickets. It was their idea to walk in the first place so you let them have a taste of their own medicine and wait for half an hour on their feet.

You weren't sure if you'd actually call it a win upon seeing the movie they picked. An action thriller. You weren't fond of the genre, it was only a lot of blood and a bunch of dudes fighting without an actual analytic plot.

Surprisingly, though, the movie turned out to be overall decent. But, you preferred watching Bella's reaction more than the movie itself.

"I wish I would've taken a picture of your face," you dissolved into giggles as Jacob pointed out Bella's jumpiness with the biggest upturn of his lips, making silly faces. He looked unbelievably adorable.

She rolled her eyes, muttering something under her breath and walking faster to avoid us, muttering ''grow up.'' You and Jacob both looked at each other and burst into laughter.

You took your sweet time to settle down before trailing behind Bella. That girl was fast on her feet when she really wanted to be.

Jacob stopped in his tracks. You almost bumped into him and looked ahead to see the cause of his reaction only to spot a familiar black Porsche.

Bella was talking to its owner and saying something inaudible. You didn't know how but you could feel Jacob tensing up beside you. He clenched his jaw and you took your time to observe how each slight moment in his muscles changed his features and the way his eyes darkened under the moonlight, entrapping an untamed fire. He was unquestionably the most prettiest guy you had ever seen.

God, he looked divine.

Something clicked in his head as he suddenly changed his gaze from Bella and Alice towards you. He looked a little shocked like he could hear your thoughts and you noticed the slight rosy shade that painted over his face.

He faced you with a shocked yet sly smirk as if asking for some sort of clarification.

''Please tell me I didn't say that out loud.'' Your eyes were wide with surprise.

At the nod of his head you buried your face in your hands, hoping for a miracle to happen and make him lose his memory of the past five minutes.

Your heart was pumping at the speed of a rollercoaster, covering the sounds of his laughter.

''I'm so sorry, please just forget everything I said,'' Your voice came out muffled.

He didn't speak but then you could perceive the movements of his body stepping closer. You felt his presence really close to you. His voice, low and teasing, whispered right next to your ear and you felt his breath on your neck.

''I'm afraid I can't do that.'' You facepalmed at his answer, but your heart fluttered in your chest, skipping a beat, like a sudden jolt of electricity had surged through you.

Your heart pounded, and you could feel your cheeks heat up. The teasing tone in his voice sent a shiver down your spine, but you couldn't help the smile that tugged at the corners of your lips.

He chuckled, sensing your reaction, and you could practically hear the smug grin on his face. Trying to steady your breath, you peeked up through your fingers, only to find him looking at you with a playful gaze that held something beyond his amusement, something softer.

''You know, you look really adorable when you blush,'' he added, his voice dripping with affection, making your heart race all over again.

Your little moment was halted when you saw Bella approaching the both of you, ''What are you talking about?''

You moved further from him, trying to calm your mind and the pacing heart.

''Y/n here was just telling me how much she loved hanging out with us tonight.'' Jacob said.

Bella's lips curled into a smile. ''Oh, that's so sweet of you, Y/n,'' she said, entirely oblivious to the teasing tone behind Jacob's words.

''We should do this again sometime, I had a lot of fun too.'' Bella said.

''Yeah, just some good ol' fun,'' Jacob said nonchalantly, giving you a playful wink, ''Isn't that right, Y/n?''

You couldn't even bring yourself to look at him, your heart racing in embarrassment. Jacob, on the other hand, couldn't help but grin, clearly enjoying the effect his words had on you.

Bella, still unaware, nodded approvingly. ''Well, it was nice to spend time together, but we should get going now. It's getting late.'' She added before turning around and starting to walk off.

You both followed her and as soon as she was out of earshot, Jacob leaned in, his voice a little softer, a little more teasing. ''You know, Y/n, I think you aren't so bad yourself.'' The air got stuck in your lungs and you wanted to retort but your brain suddenly went blank. 

For the whole way back, you kept your head low and stayed closely behind them, too fazed to make a conversation or even eye contact.

They both accompanied you back home first. Reaching the porch, you hugged Bella and were about to retreat when Jacob engulfed you into a brief embrace. You felt his hand reaching your back and squeezing it a little harder to pull you closer. You were taken aback to say the least and even redder than before.

You did your best to maintain your composure until you closed the door and let out a screeching, high pitched scream. 

The whole evening turned out to be mostly different from what you had anticipated.

You got to meet Jacob, who managed to disrupt your mind with his mere presence. Still just the thought of him made you blush and internally scream like a foolish teenager that you were. You melted against the door and didn't have the power to move until your father's voice brought you back to reality.

"How was the movie, hon?" Your dad asked from the couch, glancing up at you while muting the TV. He looked tired, like he had just got home, but there was an intrigued glint in his eyes.

"It was alright," you replied, sinking down beside him on the couch. You stretched your legs and arms out, trying to get comfortable after the long night.

"Let me guess... thanks to that handsome young fella?" He teased, eyes still on the TV as he raised the volume just a bit, pretending to act casual but clearly amused.

"Dad..." You drawled, rubbing your temples in mock frustration.

"Oh, come on, I'm just curious," he said, leaning back with a playful smile. "So who's this guy you're hanging out with?"

You gave him a look that said 'just stop'.

"Alright, alright," he said, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "Who am I to pry?"

You groaned, giving in. "His name's Jacob. He's Bella's friend. And his dad is Billy Black���you probably know him. Happy?"

Your dad gave a small nod, as if he recalled the name, but you could see that his interest was more focused on teasing you than anything else.

"That wasn't so hard, was it?" he said, with a child-like smile. You rolled your eyes and he ruffled your hair. ''I'm just playing, kiddo.''

You shot him a sideways glare before settling back into the couch. ''I hate you.''

''Sure you do.''

Your exhaustion started to catch up with you. You were about to shut your eyes for just a second when the next thing you knew, you were out cold—snoring softly like a tired cat curled up on the couch.

🤍*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•*•.•* 🤍

Ever since that night, it felt as though he was everywhere you went. But you didn't mind his presence. In all honesty, you didn't miss any opportunity to be around him either. Whenever Bella mentioned La Push, you found yourself automatically getting in the truck without any hesitation.

Billy was more than welcoming. He seemed to have taken a liking to you. You remember the first time you met him, he effortlessly managed to bring a laugh out of you, easing your nervousness. He made sure his house never felt foreign to Bella or you.

Jacob, although he never let it show, was overjoyed to have you around. He appreciated your company while he worked on his vehicles. One day, you found yourself sitting on an old bike with a bowl of popcorn while he fixed a malfunction on Bella's truck.

Bella was talking about how Angela and the rest were planning to go shopping together and had invited her to tag along ''It could be fun.'' She said, more to herself than to you.

You shrugged without giving it much thought, popping popcorn in your mouth. "I don't know, spending hours shopping with Jessica isn't exactly my idea of fun." You heard Jacob snorting and smiled to yourself while gulping down another handful of those golden puffs.

''They aren't as bad as they might seem," she ignored your comment and continued, ''You should seriously join us."

You stared at her with a blank face, raising an eyebrow, questioning her words. ''They aren't bad as long they benefit from having you around.'' You retort, reminding her of how they actually treat people who aren't her.

"Please?" She tried again and gained a warning glare from you. Bella sighed in defeat, stealing your bowl of popcorn. "Fine, then I'm not going either."

Your expressions instantly melted with gentleness and you faced her with a small smile, "You don't have to do that, I won't mind, I promise."

She shook her head wearily "I'd rather stay in with you than go out without you." She concludes, sadly chewing on your food.

You gave her a small side hug, resting your head on her shoulder while rubbing her arm in assurance. "It's okay, we can have fun here.'' Bella smiled in return, getting comfy in your embrace.

''Get a room.'' Jacob ruined the moment. You heard him pull out from under the truck but you couldn't tell since he was on the other side of the vehicle.

''Piss off.'' Bella whispers weakly, throwing your snacks at him, gaining an offended look from you. You parted from her and snatched the bowl back as she pouted, giving you her puppy dog eyes.

''Don't play with my food.'' your voice was stern, lacing with a tone of seriousness.

Jacob snickered and moved around from the other side of the truck towards where you both were currently seated. As always, he wore no shirt or shoes, just an old pair of torn jeans and the lack of coverage displayed his defined shape that was installed deeply in your mind by now.

He caught you staring and smirked, making his way towards you. You paused, with popcorns in one hand and mouth half-open. You glanced at him in utter awe as he kept getting closer and closer until he was right in front you.

He slightly bent and brushed past you, with little to no proximity in between, and you could sense his essence utterly near to your body. From the air that he exhaled to the warmth he emitted- you felt it all.

His face was right next to yours until he picked up the tool box right behind you and pulled back with a smug look.

He liked the way you trembled when he got a little too close and how your body stops fighting to get away when you feel his scent overwhelm your own.

You had hoped that whatever this was going on between the two of you extended beyond the phase of teasing and flirting. A part of you wanted to truly believe that Jacob might reciprocate your feelings especially when it seemed like he was incapable of keeping his hands to himself in your presence; his arm was either always hung over your shoulder or was wrapped around your waist, offering comfort whenever he was near.

Besides, everyone else seemed to take note of the lingering looks he sent your way when you were focused elsewhere, or the way he sometimes softened his voice while talking to you and made extra efforts just to be around you.

Like the time Billy invited you and Bella to a friendly gathering with some of his dear friends, you were basically attached to Jacob for the whole evening, feeling like an outsider, yet didn't attempt to move even when Emily successfully got you to open up a little bit.

Even Bella was also starting to catch up to your behavior. She never saw you act like that around a boy. She raised her brow at you as you kept your eyes focused on your hands in your lap, blushing uncontrollably.

At first, it was just friendly interactions, she thought, but soon discovered it to be far more deeper than what she expected.

The topic came up one day during your ride back home.

"Y/n?" Bella called out your name, collecting your attention in one place while she shifted her gaze from the road and to you from time to time.

"Yeah?"

"What's going on between you and Jacob?" She asks. There was a certain shift in her voice that you couldn't pinpoint.

You sat straight, with a sudden rush of panic drooling in your veins. You were baffled and struggled to think straight. "Nothing's going on between me and Jacob. Why? Why do you ask? Did he say something? Did I say something?"

"No. No, nobody said anything. It's- nothing." She stuttered and started to tap her fingers on the steering wheel. "Forget about it."

A moment of silence fell in the truck and none of you made any move to ease the tension and address the elephant in the room.

Eventually, she gulped before forging the courage to speak. "Do you like him?"

You didn't know what to say. Of course you liked him but you weren't ignorant to all the drama that took place before you ever got to know he existed.

You feared saying yes would damage your friendship but saying no just felt wrong. You opened your mouth only to shut it milliseconds later and opted to stay silent until you found the right words.

Bella looked at you and then back at the road quickly. "You do like him." She stated as a matter-of-fact information.

“I think he's nice if that’s what you mean.”

"You know exactly what I mean." She remarked.

You didn't know what was so wrong about you liking him. It wasn't like you were in a relationship with anyone. Bella's irritated answer was enough to start pissing you off.

"Ok, I do like him. What's wrong with that?"

Bella faces you with the tiniest hint of offence mixed with something you couldn't make out.

"Absolutely nothing! Y/n, I'm happy for you- you're my friend!" She exclaims but it seemed more directed to herself than you.

"You don't look happy to me." You point out, crossing your arms.

Your little confrontation was enough for Bella to completely shift her attention to your dispute, ignoring the road in front.

Then you saw a shadow nearing your vehicle. ''It's-''

"BELLA!" You scream in fear and she immediately hit the brakes. You shut your eyes tightly when you heard a heavy impact against the front of the truck.

The air had gone thick and for a moment you both forgot to breathe. Bella's hands were trembling and you could read the fear on her face.

You both looked at each other before slowly getting out to examine the damage.

"Oh-" escapes your mouth when you see the deer lying on the road, in utter pain, blood flowing from its body.

"This is all my fault." Bella starts to ramble as you see the tears form in her eyes. She dropped to her knees, holding her head.

"Hey, it's not your fault'' You assure her, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.

Then you bent down to where the injured animal layed. "It's our fault and we are going to fix it."

Bella glanced at you with confusion. You pulled up your sleeves and faced her once more. "I'm gonna let you in on a little secret- you think you can keep it?"

She barely nods when you lower your hands and place them on the deer's wounds. It cries out in pain but soon everything calms down. A low and warm golden light shines under your hands as you try to run them all over the wounds.

After a couple minutes, the scars had started to fade away and you could feel the deer feeling as good as before the accident. Once it was fully healed and ready to walk you both sighed in relief.

You ran back to the truck and pulled out a bottle of water and splashed it where the blood had marked the incident.

After that you both returned to the truck.

"That was," Bella starts after a long sigh "fucking awesome." You chuckle at her reaction and shake your head.

She looks at you with a small smile and then her demeanor shifts. She's frowning and you could read the guilt in her eyes. "I'm sorry I freaked out earlier. I don't care if you like Jacob or not. It's all just . . . going on too fast."

You breathe out. You didn't know what it meant but not knowing her full past with Jacob you restrained yourself from making any further judgements. Instead, you put on a smile and intertwined your hand with her. ''It's alright.''

Bella leaps forward and hugs you tightly whispering 'thank you'. She then returns her focus on the road.

''By the way you can't tell anyone about any of this." You reminded her, wiggling your finger.

"Oh, you'd be surprised to know how good I'm at keeping secrets." She answers and little did you know just how right she'd prove to be. "But you have to tell me everything about whatever that was you did out there."

part 2 in progress…

[spirit-lanterns]

I feel like. The majority of the Androids won’t have compatible parts of you know where I mean. There’s like. Literally nothing down there. Like a Barbie. And maybe. There’s an Android that ends up with Engineer that can get into her online stuff (computer, relevant accounts, etc) to order relevant parts. Maybe someone who can hack(?) if they know how to because it’s their original job before ending up with Engineer. But I don’t think we need to even go that far because it probably would be relatively easy to get Engineers password to her stuff from even just peaking over her shoulder (because Engineer doesn’t care enough that they’re looking, she doesn’t know this particular Android is self-aware, or both).

Cause I feel like, as an android engineer, she would have places to get parts from in cases where she needs to replace damaged ones.

And maybe she tends to always have lots of new parts coming in/ordered, she might not even notice the stuff the Androids snuck in to her next order.

Maybe a couple of Androids tend to help her sort through new shipments and put stuff away (cause there’s a lot) so they’re able to make off with their sneaky order without Engineer knowing.

It would be funny if they could figure out how to install the parts themselves (I’m sure there are online guides/how-to’s SOMEWHERE they can follow cause there’s no way there isn’t) (and maybe Engineer has an Android who’s job is also within the engineering realm so that makes things easier) but… it would be funnier if it’s harder than it looks cause Engineer makes fixing up the Androids seem easy.

Maybe they struggle with figuring out which tool would work for each one of them. Maybe there’s a specific tool/equipment that they need to use that Engineer would DEFINITELY notice them using and it’s not like. A small wrench they can make off with for a couple of hours.

It would be funny if they ordered the obvious parts but didn’t order the things that would actually make those parts attach properly (screws, etc. I’m not an engineer. I’m just yapping over here) or something. It would be funny if what they did order wouldn’t even work anyways without serious modifications to their current model (which basically means there’s better pieces that’ll go to how they already are. They don’t actually have to make huge adjustments. They ordered a size small shirt when they’re extra large, if that makes sense).

When Engineer inevitably finds them with their pants down (literally, mind you), surrounded by just a mess of parts and tools she’s like “what are you doing”

A: “Um-“

E: “Those won’t work.”

A: “What do you mean they won’t-“

E: “Those parts don’t even install correctly for your specific models.”

A: “Eh?”

Engineer isn’t even questioning about the… specifics of the part functions (right now, anyways. Once she’s out of ‘Engineer mode’, her brain will catch up to what she’s seen) but more of the installation.

Cue Engineer ordering the actually right parts and installing them herself. Face straight while doing it cause she’s in engineer mode and Not Thinking About It.

This is 100% a “and this is why we leave the installation and maintenance work to me” situation. It’s kinda like androids: no thoughts, head empty, engineer: the smart one (until the Androids get their hands on her. then it reverses).

Don’t bother figuring out who’s the girlfailure in this AU, Angey. Cause it’s all of them.

WOWIE. This is a very detailed and long ask, I’m pretty impressed :0

Anywho, it’s hilarious that the Android women want to fuck the Engineer so bad, they order additional “parts” (mechanical penises and vaginas) off the Engineer’s card and try to assemble it themself to surprise her. 😭😭

Unfortunately for many of them however, many of them lack the expertise in Android engineering, as they have no clue how to attach said parts to themselves without complicating things further. The only Android I can think of that would be pretty good at assembling their own parts, would be Serval. So now I’m imagining Android! Serval trying to teach and direct all the Android women on how to attach their new genitals, so they can surprise the Engineer when she gets home.

Well, things don’t go as planned because once the Engineer comes home, she just sees the Android HSR women sitting on the floor and various counter tops with their pants off, different mechanical parts scattered across the room with only Serval having successfully implemented her mechanical genitals on her own. The Engineer then proceeds to attach each and every woman’s parts correctly, and walk them through on how to do it if they wish to swap out in the future for something else.

She’s not even embarrassed because she’s entered “work mode” while attaching everyone’s parts, so the gravity of the situation doesn’t hit her until she gets in bed that night. And that’s when she realizes; “Oh my god. My Androids are planning to fuck me.”

I applaud the Engineer’s dedication to her craft, though 😅

[montymollusk]

i’m relistening to gtn and i caught something interesting

during the scene where gideon goes for tea with the eighth, silas comments that she might be originally from the third house because of the color of her hair (which is always described as outrageously and unnaturally red)

that plus the fact that corona and ianthe have violet eyes makes me wonder if maybe necromancy-fueled genetic engineering is a major thing on the third? it’s already canon that necros can give themselves bigger asses via necromancy, so why Not be able to alter their DNA to change the color of their eyes or hair the same way…….. or even do necromantic plastic surgery!! the third house is already written to be very vain as a culture, so it wouldn’t surprise me if cosmetic necromancy was developed there…. many thoughts.

[flightfoot]

About Lila's lies, perhaps i'm the only one that thinks this but i feel a lot of her lies aren't as bad as a lot of people claim. Like a majority of the class (especially Marinette) have a few outlandish achievements or facts that sound like massive lies themselves, so it makes sense that they wouldn't doubt Lila when she claimed the same.

Oh, AGREED. Here's a list of her bragging-type and I-need-help-type lies.

Lila: You know I actually happen to be very close friends with Ladybug.

I mean, it's not absurd that she might be Ladybug's friend. "Close friends" might be up for interpretation, but this really isn't crazy. Especially since it's actually true for Alya.

Rose: Can you believe Lila knows Prince Ali? She even flew in his private jet with him!

Rose knows Prince Ali. I don't know why she's even impressed by this. I wouldn't even find it weird if she flew with him on his private jet.

Chloé: Why did Jagged Stone write a song about Lila when he could've written it about me?

I mean he wrote a song about Marinette unknowingly, he even wrote a song rubbing it in Anarka's face that he was ditching her and the twins. I don't actually think it'd be that weird for him to write a song about Lila, if she impressed him.

Nino: Lila knows all of the Hollywood directors. She promised she'd mention me to Steven Basielberg himself!

Lila's story is that her mom's a diplomat, and that DOES appear to be the case for one of them. So I wouldn't be surprised if she ran into a bunch of hollywood directors at some fancy party or something, like Gabriel hosts.

Lila:(stopping him from grabbing the book) Of course she's in your book. She's one of the most important superheroes. More powerful and more celebrated than Ladybug. (Marinette is angered by the comment) Between you and me Ladybug doesn't even make the top ten. (Marinette bites down on the book) My grandma gave me this necklace.

Superheroes exist in this world, and have for a long time, so it's not that ridiculous. Though it WOULD be weird that Adrien had never heard of her if she was as celebrated as she claims. And it helps that the book confirms that there were a ton of superheroes around who Adrien never heard of before.

Lila: It's absolutely amazing! Prince Ali invited me and my parents to his gorgeous palace.

One of her moms is a diplomat, so this wouldn't be too out of place.

Lila: Oh, it's nothing much! During our world travels, my diplomat parents have helped me convince the leaders of several nations to agree to reduce world pollution. (Adrien shakes his head) And I'm very optimistic that the prince will jump on board.

Again, this really isn't that crazy. One of her moms DOES appear to be a diplomat, and this is the sort of thing diplomats do.

Lila: Yes, I suffer from tinnitus, a constant ringing in my left ear. I've had it ever since the sound of an airplane engine burst my eardrum on the runaway when I was saving Jagged Stone's lost kitten.

The class has interacted with Jagged Stone several times, so it's not that weird that Lila might have as well. Heck, Marinette is his go-to designer for his album covers. And Jagged IS the type to be this careless with a kitten.

Lila: Now it is, yes. But he had a kitten until he found out he was allergic to it.

This happens to a lot of people.

Lila: I'm sorry I can't carry my own tray. It's almost impossible with this sprained wrist.

Spraining wrists is typical, and it can be hard to carry weight when this happens, especially at certain angles.

Lila: (drops napkin) Uh, ow! Once when I was in India, I witnessed someone getting their eye gouged out by the corner of a napkin. If I hadn't caught it, this napkin could've injured Max. I didn't have a choice. Ow!

This is the only lie I've seen Lila tell that isn't really feasible. No way that someone's eye got gouged out this way. That being said, it could still cause some damage if it hit the eye and the eye wasn't protected by an eyelid or glasses. Which Max's eyes are, but it makes sense that she wouldn't have had time to think about that in the half a second she had to react.

Lila: Adrien, we'll have to figure when you're gonna help me catch up on all the schoolwork I missed. I also heard you play piano, my uncle's the great pianist Chuch Boroughchuck. He wanted to teach me when I was little, but I had to stop playing because of arthritis. But when my wrist gets better, I'd love for you to give me some lessons.

I knew someone with childhood arthritis, and her having an uncle who's a great pianist isn't any more absurd than Marinette having a great-uncle who's a world-famous chef.

Lila: Oh, I'd love to test your video game, Max, but I promised Prince Ali we'd go on a charity cruise over the Seine on his yacht this afternoon. Sorry.

This just falls under the same category as Lila's earlier lies about knowing Prince Ali and helping to promote charitable causes with him. Which Rose also does, she just doesn't travel with him. Makes sense that Lila might though, since one of her moms is a diplomat.

I'm having trouble thinking of other lies Lila told of this sort of type after this, since she was able to tell the truth mostly, what with being a model for Gabriel.

So yeah. Most of these lies are very plausible, and are way less weird than the Miracuclass's general experiences. The absurd thing is that they're impressed, not that they buy it.

[sunset-peril]

Purah somehow found herself in the role of Link's primary physician.

“Why?” The Royal Ancient Technology Lab's director had inquired, “I'm an engineer, not a physician!”

“The Sheikah created his kind in the era of the last Calamity,” the head of the royal family's medical team had responded ever so bluntly, “you are most equipped at dealing with him; being the kingdom's foremost authorities on ancient Sheikah technology.”

“That doesn't suddenly make me a doctor!” Purah had cried ever so not-bluntly. “Linky has conditions, needs medications, preventatives; what about if he's wounded in battle?!”

“The field team can handle wound care. You clearly know far more about his needs than we do.”

“If you just don't want to treat him, you could just say that!” Purah was trying not to raise her voice at the physician, seeing how his voice was calm and nearly monotonous, but the spirited researcher was having a difficult time quieting herself. Was the staff simply refusing to treat Link because of what he was? Were they sincerely concerned with their ability to provide adequate care for anyone non-Hylian? It was impossible to tell, given their insufferable monotony! “Enough people have said one thing to him and done the other, he at least deserves your honesty.”

“You have records.”

“No I don't!” She couldn't help a hand to her face. Why couldn't they just provide care to him? “Most of the records were destroyed; or stolen by the ancient Ordonians. And even if they weren't, this wasn't even considered a disease back then! Why are you making this hard!”

This time, the physician wouldn't even make eye contact with her.

“Would you at least give us the honor of allowing us to contact you should anything concerning arise?” Robbie was, in a word, more collected then Purah. He calmly stopped what he was doing and waltzed over, looking at only the physician.

“...If anything truly major happens, I suppose we could spare him a glance. I make no promises of if we could assist him.”

“Thank you, doctor.”

“...Hmph. Have a pleasant day.” Gathering the little he had placed down, the man in charge of the Royal Family's medical care turned and departed from the Royal Ancient Technology Laboratory.

“Now who does he think he is, shoving Linky off like that?” She crossed her arms and pouted, casting a side eye to her research partner.

“The highest doctor in all Hyrule would be my guess.”

“I'd like to say I can't believe he'd have the nerve, …but honestly, with the way things've been since the Queen passed, I'm not terribly surprised.”

“His Majesty has way too much on his plate to be able to strong-arm the staff into being kinder to our formerly-exiled friends, I'm afraid. Not that it's the monarch's job to be a nanny either.”

Purah shook her head. “No, I don't blame King Rhoam in the slightest. If anything, I blame the nobility for finding every single reason to encourage people to keep Linky and the others as distanced as possible. So what if Her Majesty had me treat an issue of his once? Using a bit of technology on a toddler under her's and a doctor's provision is vastly different from being a young man's entire medical staff!”

“‘Young man’ might be pushing it. He's what? Fourteen?.”

“He's a boy in mind and body, I know,” Purah admitted with a deep sigh. “But the Remnants consider their children to be adults once they've hit that point in puberty where children are possible. I dare not offend their queen.”

“You would think the medical staff would think the same. Link is technically our Zelda's equivalent to a neighboring kingdom. One with a very scary queen at that.” Robbie glanced over to the man in question, who silently hovered over his counterpart under Hylia as she cataloged parts from a disassembled Guardian. “If I were them, I'd keep Link on a fluffy cloud.”

“I'm surprised my sis will go anywhere near him, after the encounter she had with his mom.”

“I'd suppose it'd be hard to advise the Princess though, if you were always avoiding her bodyguard.

“Trueee, it's not like she's approaching Link specifically…” Purah pinched her bottom lip. “Think we can get some weight on ‘im?”

“Think the Castle can afford that much food? He already eats more than the squadron he was on when he was first knighted.”

“Think we should probably try… I know we know very little about how Hylian the Wolfbred still are, but I find it very hard to believe an active fourteen-year-old boy is supposed to be that slim.”

“Should we hire an Ordonian healer, maybe?”

“If we could find one. I know their population's kinda next to nothing now. Can't imagine there'd be a ton of healers that could either move up here or routinely make the trip.”

“He is the queen's son… maybe someone'd be willing to come out here just to keep him intact.”

“It'd be easier if we had more than like, two Wolfbred.”

“You know His Majesty relocated them out of concern for their safety.”

“Yeah, yeah. I know they're probably a lot safer and happier in Zora's Domain. It would just make it more plausible to get a healer up here.”

“You'd think he'd let us give him an exam since the medical staff won't do it?”

“I've been manhandling him since he was a puppy. He'll let me do quite a bit to him.”

“How about his head?”

“Oh, absolutely not. You know Linky won't let anyone touch him there.”

“Well, for the sake of all Hyrule, he better not hit his head.”

“For the sake of Hyrule, we need a better plan for this boy.”

~~~

Hyrule's Final Stand Mastetlist

Hyrule's Final Stand on AO3

[poisonofmind]

𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒏 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒐𝒏 - 𝑴𝒂𝒗𝒖𝒊𝒌𝒂 𝒙 𝑪𝒂𝒑𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒐 𝑶𝒏𝒆 𝑺𝒉𝒐𝒕

I fear the mavuitano brainrot is getting to me (Yes, I firmly believe in playable Thrain) But on another note a read is appreciated <3

The sun was already setting, so that the huge mountains of Natlan appeared in a golden glow where they were touched by the warm rays of the sun. The graffiti that the Natlanese painted on the bronze-colored walls during the day in intimate silence appeared in their play of colors with renewed vigor. The roar of an engine could be heard in the distance, a sound to which most of the Natlanese were already accustomed to and which no longer startled anyone. At most, it was to offer a gesture of respect to the woman dressed in black leather with fiery red hair that almost seemed to glow. Even though Mavuika had tried countless times to counteract the changes in the behavior of her people that occurred as soon as her presence was detected, her role as Pyro Archon made her stand out with her mere presence, even if this was rather unintentional on her part. After all, she was still a human herself, which in her eyes made her no different to the rest of the people of Natlan. She had long since become accustomed to the decorum with which she was confronted as the Pyro Archon. 

Towards the evening, most members of the various tribes are rarely out and about. The majority were with the tribe itself; with their families and friends, dining and winding down from the day. Only a few patrols were still out, treading the dusty paths through the green landscape of Natlan. The end of the war brought peace for the first time in Natlan's history. At the moment, all the tribes were busy rebuilding the country. Difficult weeks were already behind them, but Mavuika did her best to provide help where it was needed. Most of the victims had already been found and buried after their families had been traced by Kinich. Most of the superficial damage had also been repaired, as well as the repairs to the houses of the tribes, which were in the final stages of completion. What could not be repaired or renewed so quickly, however, was the internal damage caused by the seemingly endless war. In the past few days, Mavuika had made it her mission to visit as many people as possible and to offer them comfort, in addition to all the other duties she had been fulfilling. 

Although she had already achieved a great deal as the Archon and leader of Natlan, it was only human that she had reached her limit. After 500 long years of war, the time had finally come for her to also enjoy some peace and quiet. She herself still deals with the loss of her family. It was a constant companion in her very long life, to which she had already come to terms with. With her longevity, she resisted the permanence of her actual human life. She had already seen many of her loved ones go, if were family, friends or people who fought alongside her. Loss is a considerable part of her life, yet she forbade herself to never not acknowledge those who fought for Natlan, but also make new friends as well.

Natlan may have been cut off from the rest of Teyvat, but news of the traveler and their companion, as well as the encounters with the Archons of the other five nations, had reached her as well. Mavuika knew it was only a matter of time before the by now well known traveler and their companion stood before her, too. This was also accompanied by an encounter with another fraction, although this was rather less surprising. The Fatui were already known across the continent, so it wasn't a wild guess that they would eventually make their way to Natlan as well. 

Mavuika even had the honor of facing the highest ranking - The Captain, First of the Fatui Harbingers. However, it turned out during their first encounter that he had not only come to take her Gnosis. When she thought back to their fight, she felt nothing but satisfaction. They were both human, but it had fulfilled her to go into battle against someone who seemed her equal. Even though the abrupt end to their fight had initially made her suspicious, as she had not expected a member of the Masters of the Night Wind to cooperate with the Fatui. After extensive research it was clear to her that the Captain was pursuing a plan that was superior to simply taking her Gnosis and more of a personal matter. 

What she had not been able to understand, however, was The Captains tragic life story and how it ultimately ended. At least an end, if there can be one for someone punished with the curse of immortality. It gnawed at her that The Captain had willingly sacrificed himself. It was precisely for this reason that she had gone to Ochkanatlan and stood before the throne of primal fire once again, as she had done for the past few days.

Mavuika got off her motorcycle, pulled her helmet over her red hair and took off her glasses, which Xilonen had made at her request. She couldn't stop the corners of her mouth from twitching as the look on Xilonen's face flashed through her mind after she had tried to leave as quickly as possible as soon as she heard her motorcycle approaching from a distance, knowing that there would only be more work waiting for her as soon as Mavuika arrived at her door. Luckily, Mavuika already knew her longtime friend well enough to know all her escape routes like the back of her hand. Memories like these kept her alive over the curse of time.

A breeze of wind blowing through her hair finally snapped her back to reality. She turned her gaze up the many steps that led to the Throne of Primal Fire and looked at the huge chunks of ice that had erupted from the ground around the throne as Capitano surrendered to his self-determined fate. An icy chill surrounded her, and though she had never set foot beyond Natlan's borders, she could almost imagine the cold that reigned in Snezhnaya. It felt very different from the warm air that surrounded Natlan and felt like home to her. Mavuika closed her eyes for a moment, breathed in the icy but clear air and made her way up the many stairs. The climb didn't take long and she was standing at the foot of the Throne of Primal Fire. She let her gaze wander over the body that was enthroned on what was once the very place of the first Pyro Archon Xbalanque. Nothing had changed since she had left yesterday. The Captains gloved hand still clutched his sword in a firm grip, while the other rested on the armrest of the throne. His body was facing forward, as if he were holding an audience and not bound to this place for eternity. Mavuika could still feel a certain presence emanating from him, letting her gaze flow over the breathing of his body, but she knew that this was just a bleak attempt to dull the pain she felt in her chest. She had not yet been able to accept what had happened a few days ago. 

Mavuika had rethought her plan again and again, twisting and turning, looking at it from every possible angle - for 500 years. She thought of the seconds, minutes, hours, days, months, years and ultimately centuries that had passed. She always had one clear goal in mind: to establish the security of peace in Natlan, a real change at life. Being the Pyro Archon was something she had committed herself to. She had taken on this burden in disguise back then, when she was still young and full of thirst for action. A fire had burned inside her and it had not died out even after 500 years. Despite countless battles, losses and the almost unshakeable presence she tried to face her people with every day. But as she stood here and looked at the shadow of the man who had sacrificed himself for his country, his beloved comrades and now for her, she was overcome with gratitude as well as an infinite emptiness.

“You never told me your name, but I know your story by now, Thrain. You fought not only for Khaenri'ah, but also for Natlan. 500 years ago, as well as today. So much that you even gave your curse to grant us and the souls you have carried in your heart for so long the long awaited safety and peace. And although I am not the Archon you serve, you have also protected me in the process. We had our differences and clashed on those, yet you decided to be my ally and trusted me to finish what I planned. I thank you with all my heart. I can feel that your life force is not here anymore, but I know that you are somewhere. I hope that you too can finally feel the peace that you have more than earned,” said Mavuika as she stared into the mask, which, as usual, only cast a shadow. She took a step towards the throne and his figure, so that she was standing directly in front of him and held out her hand. Her palm gently touched the spot where she had created a fiery wound during their duel, directly above his heart. She could feel the slight tremble of his chest, which rose and fell with every breath.  

“I'm sorry I almost hurt them,” she said, placing the same hand with which she had touched his heart against hers. Mavuika took one last look at the mask that hid his face and turned around to go back home. She was already sitting on her motorcycle when an icy chill enveloped her for a brief moment, brushing along her cheek before the feeling of her own familiar warmth filled her once more. Mavuika glanced at the throne and Thrain again. Nothing had changed, except for the small spark of hope that sprouted within her. Mavuika pulled on her helmet and made her way back to the stadium via a soul path. She knew that her path would lead her to a certain shaman tomorrow.

[soupgoose]

New Year's Kiss

Just some simple, sweet Captaineer fluff to start off the New Year!

Word Count: 979

:] 

A/N at the end.

The old ship was full of life for the first time in nearly a year. Colorful lights were strung across its hull, hanging limply as its former passengers cheered all around and inside it. 

The colony had long since outgrown the ship, leaving it docked in the center of their established city; And while very few still needed their old offices and work spaces, the Invincible was well taken care of. 

She hadn’t seen the majority of her passengers for months, and now, as the live-streamed feed of Earth’s New Year’s countdown filled almost every screen aboard, each and every one stood somewhere inside or around her. 

The joy and excitement surrounding the Invincible was palpable and warm. They’d have their own celebration here in a couple months, marking the colonies first full rotation around their new star on their new home.

Many years had passed on Earth throughout the Invincibles journey, including a couple more as the colony had struggled to establish solid and instant wide-spread communication with their home planet.

However, at the moment, everyone was excited to celebrate the New Year; despite having not been on Earth for decades, they knew where they came from. Where home was.

Laughter and music filled the hall, the sound flooding in as Gunther slammed open the door, Mark cringing at the abuse of its automatic opening mechanism.

“Are y'all joinin’ us or what?! Midnight’s comin’ in fast!” 

The gaggle of his lackeys chimed excitedly in agreement behind him, holding what looked to be a concerning amount of explosives.

“We’ll be there in a second! We’re just finishing up this meeting you were supposed to come to.”

Celci retorted, rolling her eyes at the man’s usual disregard for professional occasions, as Burt shook his head in similar disappointment. 

The Captain’s short laughter pulled their attention back to their end of the table. “Oh hush! it’s alright you two; we can reconvene later.” 

“Are you sure, Cap’n?” Burt asked, surprised.

“Yes! Now, get out of here! Go enjoy yourselves, get some drinks! Enjoy the holiday!” The warmth in their Captain’s voice was enough to ease any lingering hesitation; and, for better or worse, only encouraged whatever inane plans Gunther and his lackeys had in store; Their crazed laughter could be heard as they disappeared down the hall.

Celci and Burt groaned tiredly, worried for their immediate future, before bidding their Captain a Happy New Year and following the group.

The Captain watched proudly as their closest friends left, seeing a solid happiness in their eyes. 

“Well, Captain? Are we heading out too then?” Mark mussed from behind them, his hand resting against their shoulder as he approached.

Pulling the rest of his arm across their body, and leaning into his side, the Captain chuckled. 

“Nah- We’ll join them in a bit- Let Gunther get the majority of his pyromania out before I have to deal with it.”

“Before we deal with it. After all-” He gently reminded them, taking their hand in his “-We’re partners aren't we?”

They chuckled again before agreeing warmly, squeezing the engineer’s hand back comfortingly, “That’s right.”

The countdown neared closer to 0 on the deck’s console screen, the cheering both outside and in growing louder with excitement. The Captain’s eyes lit up happily, watching the scene playout outside on the deck below. The two could almost make out Gunther’s voice from the deck as he happily barked orders at the people below.

A large ring around an impressive display of explosives formed, the distance between the people and the center set by Gunther’s group. 

10! The crowd exclaimed, beginning the final countdown.

“I think,” the Captain began slowly, “Yes, this might be my first New Year’s.” they hummed. 

“Here- Like this I mean.”

9! The people prepared their party crackers and sparklers.

“Yeah? Hmm, yeah me too. I think so anyways.”

8! Gunther finished fiddling with the makeshift display. 

“Considering everything, I think everything’s finally working itself out.” Mark’s tone grew slightly sadder, a melancholy smile taking place across his lips.

7! Celci watched worriedly from a safe distance away with Burt, chewing at the inside of her lip. 

The Captain smiled, nodding into his embrace. “I think we’ve done just fine, Mark.”

6! The fuse sparked to light as the gunner dashed away, a crazed look in his eyes.

They turned in his arms, standing face to face as they wrapped their forearms around his neck.

5! The spark disappeared into the cardboard casing as Gunther dashed away.

Their eyes met, filled with adoration and pride. A smile pulling at their lips. 

4! Gunther appeared at the sides of his coworkers; Laughing happily as he shook the shoulders of the shorter woman.

“We’ve done just fine.”

3!

A soft blush dusted their cheeks as their foreheads rested against each other.

2!

After millions of attempts, countless lives, and endless searches for the other- 

1! 

They had finally done it right. This was finally it.

Happy New Year!!! 

A collection of booms and crackles erupted violently from outside, lighting the dark sky with vibrant colors. The main deck of the ship was illuminated by the display, silhouetting the forms of the Captain and their Head Engineer.

Their lips met his, soft and warm. A gentle pull to their reality. One unbothered by the USA or converging timelines. One where no one was to blame for things outside of their control. One where everyone was safe and sound on their new planet. 

One where they were in each other's arms. For good this time.

They pulled apart after a moment, laughing warmly to themselves as they did.

A hopeful sparkle shone in the Engineer’s eyes as they looked at them.

“Happy New Year. Captain.”

A soft look filled their eyes, their smile widening across their face as they returned their forehead to his.

“Happy New Year, Mark.”

Happy New Year everyone! I hope this year brings good fortune and happiness to your life.

I won't make any grand promises of posting more, but it is one of my goals to make more time for writing more often, so take that as you will!

Side note, it appears that I've gotten a few asks but I can't view them, neither on desktop or on mobile so I hope I haven't missed anyone. If I have please feel free to send me a DM! Life is pretty busy in collage but I will try my best to get to them.

That being said, Happy New Years and I wish all an amazing 2025! Thanks for reading!

-Soup :]

[racefortheironthrone]

MAWS Episode 5

I was a little surprised at the discourse coming out of Episode 5, because I thought the episode (and also major elements of Episode 4) did a very good job of setting up a conflict in which both Lois and Clark's actions make total sense.

For Lois' part, the stairwell scene in Episode 4 did a very good job of elaborating on her main drives and motivations: Lois grew up with a father who constantly lied to her and kept secrets from her, and she has defined herself in reaction to that. She dedicated her life to an occupation that's all about exposing the truth and uncovering secrets. Not only does she have a point that someone with immense power should be held accountable to the public, but she does have a legitimate beef in that her co-worker and partner has been both withholding information about big things (his secret identity) and lying to her constantly about small things (the bagels).

Handcuffing herself to Superman and throwing herself off buildings is an extreme reaction, and she should probably talk to a therapist about her disregard for her own safety, but to be fair, it's not like she hasn't tried and failed with more normal methods, because Superman has been avoiding her and deflecting her questions.

For Clark's part, he's right that he has a right to privacy and that his secret being exposed could put the people he loves in great danger - even more so now that he knows that Task Force X is specifically coming after him as an alien threat. As we saw with his childhood, his Kryptonian heritage is something that frightens him and makes him question whether he belongs. Moreover, in her statements about publishing all of Superman's secrets and calling Superman a liar, Lois didn't give him any reason to believe that she would understand his motivations or prioritize his interests when it comes to his secret identity.

I would argue that the ending of Episode 5 only works because both sides have a point. If either Lois or Clark were completely right or completely wrong, the scene wouldn't hit as hard as it did and we wouldn't get the right emotional response.

To use a TV Tropes term, this episode is the Darkest Hour beat, as the bonds between Lois, Clark, and Jimmy have been frayed because of their conflicting drives. We're supposed to be upset about it, and we're supposed to want the band to get back together - because that's what's going to give the emotional payoff when Lois and Clark rescue Jimmy and come to a reconciliation by uncovering the reverse-engineered alien weapons program that Lois' father (a confrontation with whom Lois' arc is clearly building to) and Amanda Waller have been running on an unsuspecting public, thus recommitting the group to truth, justice, etc.

[buffshipper8490]

RATED EXPLICIT

SUMMARY

Asami gives Korra an exclusive tour of Future Industries' sex toy division...

EXCERPT

"So how exactly did Future Industries get into the sex toy market?" Korra asked as her and Asami walked through the double doors of the department inside the Sato family's business building, Future Industries. "Well, after all of his business dealings with the Water Tribe Civil War and with Kuvira and the Earth Empire bit him in the ass, Varrick decided his personal business mantra was to 'Make Love Not War' and invested in R&D for much of what you see here," Asami replied, gesturing to the racks and racks of various sex toys, devices, and S&M rigs. "It's harmless enough, and honestly, I've actually gotten into developing some of these products myself." "Really?" Korra raised her eyebrows. "Like what?" Asami took Korra's hand and led her to a small handheld device with a glowing end. She pressed a button and the device hummed softly. "Like this," Asami explained. "I reverse-engineered the technology that went into the electroshock gloves we took from the Equalists and innovated the device you see here, lowering the voltage considerably, of course." Korra took it and felt the vibration in her hands. "Go ahead and touch the tip," Asami suggested. Korra touched the glowing end. A small electrical charge ran up her finger. She jerked her hand back in surprise and looked at Asami quizzically. "Did it hurt?" Asami asked, concerned. Korra shook the tingling out of her hand. "No. Not at all! My finger just tingles. It's weird." "It's a vibrator that delivers a minute current of electricity to maximally stimulate the nerve endings," Asami winked. "Very effective." Korra looked at her hand, still feeling the tingling. "I bet." Asami discretely put the device in her jacket and continued her tour of the sex toy department. Korra was bemused at the array of devices and sex aids— she had always preferred the old fashioned way, the natural way: a rock-hard dick or a few fingers in her pussy or ass. A tasty pussy that she could coax the juice out of or a cock that she could milk dry. If it ain't broken, don't fix it. "You don't seem very interested in any of the merchandise in here," Asami pointed out, sounding rather disappointed. Korra shrugged, blushing slightly. "I dunno... I just feel like many of these are trying to come up with a solution to a problem that doesn't exist. Call me a country girl or whatever but I just don't see the need for the majority of this stuff. Your tongue... your hands... that's all I need to be happy." "Thanks," Asami blushed. "I get that... but all of this stuff isn't meant to replace that. It's meant to enhance it. Sex aids, not sex replacements." Korra was still unconvinced. "Oh, you're gonna make me take out the big guns, aren't you?" Asami tugged her arm. "C'mon. Let me show you what else we've been working on."

Likes ❤️ and Reblogs 🔁 are much appreciated!

[weirdowithaquill]

Traintober 2024: Day 10 - Flora

Flora and the Great Waterton Flower Show

Flora the tram engine works on a small logging tramway on the eastern side of the island of Sodor. It begins at Vicarstown before heading inland to Great Waterton, the site of a major waterworks. The line mostly transports the water from the waterworks or logs from the numerous small timber plantations that surround the little town. During harvest season, Flora would even take the produce from the farms. Her little line travelled along a road, so Flora needed cowcatchers and sideplates by law – but the road was unpaved, and so very few people liked to drive along it.

The only engines Flora really met were the few who spent time at Vicarstown. She’d made good friends with Bear the diesel and the Scottish Twins, but she avoided the big engines. They were just too pompous for the little sunshine-yellow tram.

One morning, Bear rumbled into the yard to see Flora looking even sunnier than usual! “What’s got you so excited?” asked Bear. “The Great Waterton Flower Show is on tomorrow,” beamed Flora. “And I’ve just been given a new coat of paint for the celebration!” Bear had never been to a flower show before, and thought they sounded rather silly when flowers grew everywhere already, but he decided to support his friend.

“Are you going to see it?” he asked. Flora practically whistled with glee. “They’re holding it at the station!” she exclaimed. “And I’m even going to be decorated! I’m going pull so many passengers in Moseley.” Moseley – Flora’s sleepy tram coach – stirred at the mention of his name, opening a bleary eye. He was getting cleaned for the celebration, and there was a workman polishing his stair railing.    

“See, he’s so excited!” chirped Flora. Bear wasn’t sure what was different about Moseley to hint at excitement, but was happy for his friend anyway.

Flora was so excited that she could barely sleep – but sleep she did, much to her shedmates’ thankfulness – and soon she was being steamed up for her first trip so the Great Waterton Flower Show.

Gordon met her at the platform with a train of his own. Passengers flooded from his coaches to swarm Moseley, who was quite stunned at the turn of events! “I can’t hold this many!” he spluttered. Flora chuckled and went to fetch a couple spare coaches from the carriage sidings. When she returned, she found Gordon staring at her consideringly.

“So you must be Flora,” he said. “I am surprised we have not met properly before.” “Ah, well I am busy,” Flora replied, not wanting to admit that she avoided him. “Well,” hummed Gordon, “that’s alright. Though I do think it mustn’t be that important – you’re tucked away on your little insignificant branchline, after all.” Flora glared, but just trundled away with her heavy train of passengers. She didn’t want Gordon’s dismissiveness to spoil her day.

The flower show was stunning! The various gardens were spotless, with flowers in all shades of the rainbow. Some were tropical, and had special sun lamps to keep them warm and snug while others were from the furthest winters, and were in special pots that kept the soil cool for them. Flora was in love! She spoke to every gardener who would listen, and her driver managed to get a couple to agree to redo the flower boxes at Vicarstown sheds.

Then, Flora went to pick up the special guest. She wasn’t sure who it was, but considering how nervous the mainland diesel looked when he slowed to a stop it was someone very important. Flora had even been given a special, ultra-luxurious coach for the guest, and there was a red carpet!

Then, the guest stepped out and Flora couldn’t hold in her stunned gasp. It was the Queen! “I’m about to pull Her Majesty!” hissed Flora in astonishment. “But I thought the Queen only went to the Chelsea Flower Show?” “She’s come to judge some of the gardens apparently,” her driver replied, equally as stunned. “Let’s give her a grand ride.”

Flora was extra careful as she made her way down her little tramway, wincing at every little bump she felt in the rails. As much as her little line was beautiful, it was also not meant for such important passengers. Flora hoped the Queen was enjoying the scenery more than the track!

When they arrived, there was a great reception waiting! The mayor and the local councillor and all the guests, contestants and locals were waiting for Her Majesty, and had prepared a special high tea for her. But instead of following the mayor, the Queen turned and made her way up to where Flora was standing.

“Thank you very much for a smooth ride,” the Queen said. “You are perhaps the brightest and most cheerful little tram I have ever met. Do you enjoy flowers too?” “Y-y-yes, Your Majesty,” gulped Flora. The Queen chuckled. “There’s no need to be nervous,” the Queen said kindly. “I just noticed your nameplate – were you inspired by the flowers, by any chance?” “I was,” admitted Flora. “I really like daffodils.” “I do too,” replied the Queen, and for the first time, Flora got a chance to see Her Majesty’s outfit – it was the same shade of yellow as her! The Queen waved to someone, and they walked over. It was a photographer. “Would you take a photo of us?” she asked. Flora blushed bright red! “With me!” she squeaked.

The Queen just nodded. The pair posed for the photographer, and then the Queen turned to Flora one last time.  

“I hope you also enjoy the flower show today.” And with that, the Queen headed off for her special tea. Flora felt faint. The rest of the day seemed to just flash by, and all too soon she was backing into the sheds. Both Gordon and Bear were there.

“How was your little flower show?” asked Gordon, smirking at the little tram. “Fabulous!” grinned Flora. "I heard you had a special visitor," said Bear, looking excited.  "Who?" snorted Gordon. "Aslan of Narnia?!" Flora was about to retort when her driver ran over. “Someone’s here to see you again!” he exclaimed excitedly. He nodded his head, and all three engines looked over. Gordon’s eyes widened to the size of serving platters as he spotted The Queen stepping over the rails towards the shed.

“Your Majesty?!” he spluttered. “What an honour!” “Indeed,” replied the Queen. “It is an honour for me to present Flora with a special award: the RHS President’s Award for Best Flora.” She pulled out a large medal and placed it on Flora’s lampiron. Flora was beside herself with excitement! “I also wanted to personally thank you again for such a smooth ride today – your little line is absolutely stunning, Flora, and I wish you many more successful years.” She turned. “As for you, Gordon – well, maybe next year.”

And with that, the Queen strode away, leaving behind a speechless Gordon, a cackling Bear and one very proud Flora!

Back to the Master Post

[transmutationisms]

Her first task: assemble a team of development executives to rummage through Mattel’s toy chest and identify I.P. that could be fodder for Hollywood studios. Mattel would help match properties with writers, actors, and directors; studios would provide all the funding. The brands, and audiences’ familiarity with them, were their own form of currency. Brenner told me, “In the world we’re living in, I.P. is king. Pre-awareness is so important.”

[...]

The gamble now looks like a smart one. The hyper-saturated trailers for “Barbie” have sparked endless memes, and interest in the film’s aesthetic sensibility, which mimics the look of Mattel play sets, is so intense that the hashtag #Barbiecore trended on TikTok for months. The movie, which opens in mid-July, is tracking to be one of the blockbusters of the summer. Meanwhile, Mattel has amassed a long slate of other projects. Daniel Kaluuya, for example, has agreed to produce a feature about Barney, the purple dinosaur. Thirteen more films have been publicly announced, including movies about He-Man and Polly Pocket; forty-five are in development. (Some of the projects have an ouroboros quality. Tom Hanks is supposed to star in “Major Matt Mason,” which will be based on an astronaut action figure that has been largely forgotten, except for the fact that it helped inspire Buzz Lightyear—one of the protagonists of Pixar’s “Toy Story” franchise.)

Barber told me that Mattel had figured out how to “engage with filmmakers in a friendly way.” Gerwig, meanwhile, was looking to move beyond the small-scale dramas she was known for. “Greta and I have been very consciously constructing a career,” Barber explained. “Her ambition is to be not the biggest woman director but a big studio director. And Barbie was a piece of I.P. that was resonant to her.”

[...]

Talk turned to a few recent pitches that had surprised the team. “Somebody just asked me about Bass Fishin’, which is, like, a toy fishing rod,” Bassin said. The pitch was for an “intense sports drama about this cheating scandal in competitive fishing”—an attempt, it seemed to me, to Trojan-horse a story that the writer actually wanted to tell into a conceit that might be green-lighted.

After the meeting, McKeon told me that it was possible to incorporate complex characters and emotions into toy-based properties, though not every brand could support mature themes. “Thomas the Tank Engine isn’t going on a bender with his friends,” he said. But “Major Matt Mason” could be reimagined as a “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”-esque drama for adults: “It’s prestige-y and asks really pointed questions about life and our place in the universe.” He went on, “Our top priority is to make really good movies—movies that matter, and that make a cultural footprint. Our second priority is to make sure that we do no disservice to the brands.”

found this article helpful in contextualising the medium piece that’s been circulating on here