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memes-in-a-half-shell · 2 years ago

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Villain AU - Deadlock, Part 1

Deadlock: "When two programs are waiting for the same signal from each other, they are said to be at a deadlock."

I uh... I spent my whole morning planning this damn fic and so far I'm liking the storyline! SO HERE I GO, I GUESS. Hopefully it shouldn't span into too many chapters (says I, knowing I'll probably be writing a brick of a fanfic, as always)

Rating might turn around 18+, especially for language, sex scenes, probably some gore/torture, and some other stuff maybe 🤷‍♀️ This chapter is clean now at least 😂

The mission was clear: infiltrate that Foot stronghold, get the data, and then scram! Casey had gotten the intel about transactions and investors that were now dealing with the Foot clan, and getting such information would be crucial to his current investigation. Asking for the turtles' help was a no brainer, especially when it came about Donatello and his technological prowess. So it only made sense for Leonardo to let the bespectacled terrapin lead the squad.

In the dead of the night, they made their way into the impressive tower, starting from the top. Expecting camera surveillance, Donnie brought his sensors up to track the video's signal and replace it with fake footage, only to find that such action had already been done. First red flag.

Voicing his concern, he pressed that he had to reach the server room as soon as possible in order to extract the data. Suggesting for his brothers to pan out and secure the perimeters, the tall mutant next brought his googles over his eyes, switching his lenses to an infrared setting that could follow wires. Uh, at least they have good cable management, he thought, spotting the huge assembly that could only lead to the building's servers.

Treading silently, the turtle remained on alert all while getting the "clear" updates from the three others. As he was trekking along the hallways, he couldn't help the feeling that something was off. He swore he saw one of the cameras follow him as he was going around one corner...

Reaching another level, the few lights still on around the building were suddenly switched off, giving place to the flashing emergency lights instead. Second red flag.

"Donnie, status," cracked Leo's voice through the headphone at the terrapin's head.

Donatello was quick to press the talk button of the device attached to his right strap: "I suspect we're not alone in this building. I need to go radio silent so I don't get found."

"Don't be foolish, we'll fall back to you."

"Too late. I'm close to the server room. If anything, I'll signal you guys. Going dark."

He switched his talking gear off just as he started to hear complaints from his brothers. He couldn't risk getting found now, especially if it was to be caused by the crackling sound of a voiceline.

He knew he was getting close when the wires were now plentiful and converging towards the same spot. Sticking to the shadows, he found the room and dared peek in at first. He first heard clicking sounds, as if someone was typing on a keyboard. The room was dim-litted by the many servers available and running. Arranged in several rows, Donnie knew there had to be a terminal somewhere in there - and someone was most probably already on it.

Stepping in, he carefully trailed between each rows, taking a quick glance in-between them. Reaching another row, his body froze as voice rose, its tone primarly female but modified with a flanger.

"No need to hide, I've had eyes on your little group since you've set foot into the building."

Donnie took a deep breathe in, removing his googles and finally stepping to face the stranger. The first thing that struck him was her look. Primarly dressed in black, a large hood was covering her head. Her face was hidden by large green googles and a face mask. He could notice traces of her bare skin with the hood giving a clear opening to her chest - Donnie rapidly noting down the presence of a tattoo to her left representing small bats in flight - and her hips showing in-between the skin suit's limits and her leggings. She had an utility bag strapped diagonally across her upper body, as well as one hugging her left outer thigh. Her arms were covered by fabric as well, ending into gloves that ended in sharp and small metal claws. The woman was still typing at a terminal when Donatello got sight of her. She was a fast typer and barely had to look at her hands when she spared a glance his way.

"Gotta say... it feels weird to see one of you guys in the flesh," she continued. "I've heard stuff about mutant turtles through the grapevines of the web, but I wasn't so sure until now."

"Who are you?" asked Donnie, cautiously.

The stranger finished typing a command with a satifying tap on the enter key, then fully turning her attention to the terrapin.

"You don't have to worry about that information," she tutted. "I'll soon be gone and you'll never have to worry about me again, hopefully. And I'm sure you've got bigger fish to fry."

"Maybe, but that doesn't explain your presence in a Foot facility, messing around in their server room," said Donnie, frowning.

"Can't a girl have some fun?" added the woman with amusement.

"What are you doing, exactly?"

As if on cue, a beeping sound came from the terminal, the human then collecting a small device she had plugged in.

"While we were having this nice lil' chit-chat," she started, placing the hardware into one of her bags, "that gave enough time for my program to finish collecting some very useful lists, all while deleting it from the source."

Donatello was now ready for action, knowing she got exactly what he needed.

"Hand that over."

"Sheesh, as if! Stranger danger."

When she removed her hand from her bag, she was holding something else.

"As much as I'd like to continue this conversation, my time is now up," she continued. "See you never, turtle," she quickly saluted with her hand holding the new small object, which she threw towards the mutant next.

Donnie was about to spring into action, but was quickly blinded by a bright light that exploded near him - thanks to the flash bomb she had just thrown. It took him several seconds to get some of his sense back, his eyes trying to adjust and an annoying ringing blocking his hearing. He forced himself to move towards the terminal first, shaking his head a few times to get his focus back. As he feared, she had indeed successfully gathered the data he was seeking, also deleting it from the servers. Cracking his communication device back to life, he was quick to bring his brothers up to speed.

"There's a woman in this building and she just took what we need. We must intercept her!"

Donnie rapidly scanned his surroundings, finding himself alone in the room. He didn't waste any time by bringing holograms from his gear to his view, creating a layout of the building and scanning for any movements - even if that meant bringing the surveillance cameras back in proper action.

"Where's she headin'?" asked Raphael's voice.

"Scanning," replied Donnie. "I'm sorry guys, but I'll have to bring the building's security back online. Stick to the shadows for now."

"Got it," added Michelangelo.

The mutant finally got a ping.

"She's heading into the vents," he quickly informed. "I'm on the 18th floor, she'll probably go down."

"We'll get on the move and try to intercept her. Keep us informed," said Leo.

It would be hard to follow her movements precisely, but that didn't stop Donnie from heading out of the room and towards elevator doors. Forcing them open, he next got his bo staff out and jumped towards the large metal cables into the shaft. Blocking his staff sideways into two large cable sections, he applied enough pression to slide into a calculated fall, his shoes also sliding against them. The hologram from his right wrist still in view, he finally saw some motion again at the ground level floor. Dang she's fast, he thought.

Finding the elevator cab at his level destination, he allowed himself to fall on top of the box from a reasonable height, opening the ceiling trap and sliding into the enclosure. The doors opened with a cheerful ding, Donnie not wasting any time to squeeze through them and force them to open faster.

"Ground level," he quickly announced over the radio. "I'm there and that's the latest ping I've got."

"Be right there," answered Raph.

Finding this floor to be the building's grand entrance, Donatello was trying to cover as much ground as he could with his eyes alone, but soon found the lobby to be empty of any souls. Looking back at his map, he found the same ping to be active, and the closer to the lobby center he got, the closer he was getting to the source... He stopped himself when he right over the marked spot, instantly frowning. He first looked arround, hands on his hips to signal his annoyance. Then his eyes glanced to the floor and that's when he noticed a small business-like card down there. He picked it up, first noticing a quickly drawn cartoon version of the woman he had just met, alongside a message that read: "Hope you enjoyed your experience! To understand what just happened, please scan the following QR code." He indeed saw something to scan, relunctantly doing so. It lead to a youtube video that had been carefully cut to a part of Michael Jackson's song "Smooth Criminal": "You've been hit by, you've been struck by, a smooth criminal!"

".... Clever bitch," he mumbled to himself with slight amusement.

As he heard footsteps approaching, he did sense something inside the card - most probably an electronic chip that must have interefered with his sensors, hence why he could only ping this location. He resigned himself to keep the card, but he would definitely need to scan it before reaching the Lair, simply to avoid any tracking device to follow him and his brothers.

"Did you catch her?" asked Mikey as the trio was now next to the tall terrapin.

Donnie motionned looking around him, annoyed.

"Does it look like it?" he replied, his attention falling back to his brothers. He sighed next, showing the card into view. "She seems to have escaped, unfortunately. She probably slipped that through some cracks and got out on another level. She left this here - there's a chip inside I can probably use to track her or somethin'..."

"Who was it?" questionned Leo. "Is it someone we know?"

The purple clad mutant shook his head.

"Never seen her before. She appears to be well capable with technology though. I may have to dig a little to find some information..."

"Could you get the list from the servers as well?" asked Raph.

"She wiped it clean," answered Donnie, defeated. "I don't have it - she does."

The team seem to deflate as well. It had been some time since they failed a mission... Leonardo's quick sigh brought the others' attention on him.

"Let's move," he said. "I'd rather we don't overstay our welcome, especially with the security cameras back online. ... We can figure out what to do next when we get back home."

"Sorry, Leo, I thought I had it under control," started Donnie.

"Don't," stopped the leader. "We'll talk later."

***

Alone and secured on a nearby flat rooftop, Vee pulled back her hood, next removing her googles and lowering her mask with a satisfied sigh. A nice wind was ruffling through some wild strands of her dark teal hair that had been first assembled into a low bun. She got a rectangular case from one of her pouches, next retrieving her glasses, which she rightfully placed before her eyes.

"Another night, another success," she congratulated herself, making sure that the data was secured still into her bag.

As she was readying herself to get back down to the streets, her eyes caught on some quick movements happening on other rooftops - her first instinct being to hide herself behind a big air conditionner box. She realized that the other forms were the turtles now on the move, a smile now on her features. Meeting one of them had been quite the experience - she still had shivers, just thinking about it! She kept a mental note to bring recording gear next time she was out, juuuuust in case she'd cross their paths again. Any footage of those creatures could probably result in quite the tantalizing sum...

She needed to find more information about them.

((Part 2))

#it's-a-moi #villain au #usual sorry for any mistakes #I think I'll have fun with that!#if anyone wanna know - I was mostly listening to the Splinter Cell 3 soundtrack while writing #lmao can't believe I just whipped the storyline and this first chapter today #I'm on fireeeeeeeee

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vikenticomeshome · 9 months ago

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Cyberchase - The September 2005 promotion content

In September of 2005, Cyberchase was getting close to releasing a sequence of five episodes. These were:

Season 4 Episode 6: A Change of Art (was set to originally air on October 3rd, 2005)

Season 4 Episode 7: The Case of the Missing Memory (was set to originally air on October 4th, 2005)

Season 4 Episode 8: A Crinkle in Time (was set to originally air on October 5th, 2005)

Season 4 Episode 9: A Broom of One's Own (was set to originally air on October 6th, 2005)

Season 4 Episode 10: A Tikiville Turkey Day (was set to originally air on October 7th, 2005)

They decided to make a special section of the site promoting these episodes. It was very much in the style of the "What's Hacker's Secret???" Promotion that they used for the Transformatron Arc. I have posts on that.

part 1: https://www.tumblr.com/vikenticomeshome/745698917707071488/alright-cast-your-mind-back-to-watching?source=share

part 2: https://www.tumblr.com/vikenticomeshome/745702051476013056/the-whats-hackers-secret-content-part?source=share

part 3: https://www.tumblr.com/vikenticomeshome/745758203615264768/the-whats-hackers-secret-content-part-3-the?source=share

I've submitted my archive of the September 2005 promotional content to the Flashpoint Project for preservation. So, that will be the best way to experience it again. However, I can at least show screenshots and talk about it here. I will warn you that I don't think its as good as the earlier Transformatron arc promotion.

Before we open the promotional section of the site, let's see how this section was promoted on the Cyberchase homepage of the time. Here is a capture from Septmber 30th showing that we are 4 days away from the first of the new episodes.

That "New Shows!" panel was a gif. I went and grabbed it, in all of its tiny glory. I recognize the screenshots as being from the first three of the episodes that were being promoted. I'm not sure why they didn't include the other two.

When we get into the promotion section, we start off on this page with the statues that The hacker made for the episode "A Change of Art". Those purple dots are important, as anyone who has seen the episode knows.

Unfortunately, that video preview is from the era when Cyberchase (and PBS as a while) used RealPlayer. The original streaming source was not able to be archived, and it is now lost. I don't know if this was web-exclusive, or if it would have aired on TV.

The "Play Hacker's Secret Word Game" is essentially the same game that they used with the "What's Hacker's Secret???" promotion. However, they advertise that it used different words this time that were relevant to this set of episodes.

I do think that some of their word choices were a bit weak.

Good to know that The Hacker is going to have green skin in these episodes, though. One weird thing I noticed when archiving this version of the game is that the game requested some MP3 files for different voice-lines depending on whether you won or lost. However, I couldn't find archives of those files. I had found the equivalent files from the version of the game that was used for the "What's Hacker's Secret???" promotion. I wonder if they accidentally released this version with those files missing.

From there, we can move on to the "New Episodes Coming!" link, where we get a synopsis for each of the episodes. Spoiler alert for 20 year old Cyberchase episodes, I suppose.

A Change of Art: Statues of Hacker are popping up all across Cyberspace. It's his latest scheme - art therapy! Heartbroken after losing to the kids yet again, Hacker throws himself into sculpture and gives his work away. Problem is, whenever one turns up, the power goes off. The CyberSquad investigates to see what;s causing these changes. Is Hacker back to his old tricks? Or has he finally had a change of heart? And what's with the sparkly purple dots on the sculptures?

The Case of the Missing Memory: Under the guise of a peach mission, Wicked arrives at Control Central with a handful of bad guys. But someone's up to no good, and steals Motherboard's precious Memory Integrator. Whodunit? Where is it?? And what does it look like??? Digit and the kids must figure out what they know - what they don't know - and what they need to know. Can they do it all before Motherboard's memory is lost forever?

A Crinkle in Time: Digit and the kids go on a rescue mission to save Slider, searching for their friend all over a mysterious cybersite called Ticktockia. But it's all a big trick by Hacker, and Slider's not even there! And if the CyberSquad doesn't leave soon, they'll be stuck forever. Can they learn enough about gears to escape before the clock strikes 9? Only time will tell.

A Broom of One's Own: When Wicked puts the CyberSquad Seal of Approval on her new "Wickedly Brooms," it's up to Matt, Jackie, Inez, and Digit to make sure the broom are as good as Wicked claims. They try them out, figuring out their speed - how far the different brooms go in a given amount of time. The brooms pass the test - but Wicked doesn't. They must race to Control Central and save Motherboard before Wicked's scheme succeeds! And where's Hacker? And what will he do when he finds out Wicked is trying to take over his turf?

A Tikiville Turkey Day: Hacker steals the legendary Egg of Benedicta - and the lush landscape of Tikiville wilts and turns brown. The spirit of the Tikians is crushed and Creech is in big trouble unless the CyberSquad can help! When their attempt to recover the Egg from Hacker fails, they hatch a new plan to replace the Egg. By studying patterns in nature, can they recreate the nest and restore peace and harmony to Tikiville?

I won't bother discussing the coloring pages, as they aren't actually specific to this promotion. I don't know if that section was new, or if they just used it to fill space. The main attraction is Cyberspace News Issue #2. We got the first issue during the "What's Hacker's Secret???" promotion.

The Hacker Talks! Sam Vander Rom's EXCLUSIVE Interview

Sam: Hacker, what's woth --

Hacker: That's THE Hacker to you, Vandy!

Sam: May I call you "The"?

Hacker: No.

Sam: OK, The Hacker, what's with the new look? Is this another dastardly disguise?

Hacker: No, Vandy, I've turned over a new leaf. I'm a new borg. I'm devoting myself to my art now.

Sam: Really? No more causing chaos? No more trying to take control of Cyberspace?

Hacker: I am a simple sculptor now. An artiste.

Sam: What do you make?

Hacker: Incredible works of art that are gorgeous to behold.

Sam: Yes, but what do they look like?

Hacker: That's for me to know and you to find out! An artiste does not unveil his work until the time is right.

Sam: So you won't tell me.

Hacker: I've said too much already. Just know that I will be donating my art to the people of Cyberspace. All will benefit from my generosity.

Sam: Well, now I've heard it all. Hacker an artist? No more trying to take control of Cyberspace? I'll believe it when I see it!

Wicked's Big Surprise by Erica Ram

What can't this glamour girl from Happily Ever After do? The Wicked Witch, known to friends and foes alike as "Wicked," will soon be launching a secret new business. While she won't say what it is, Wicked does say "It's just so me! And it's full of surprises for you know who!" Does she mean Motherbaord and the CyberSquad? Or maybe her ex-fiance Hacker? As usual, Wicked leaves this reporter wondering what she's up to.

Situation Wanted Henchman

Obsequious underling seeks new employer. Very discreet. Will work cheap. All interested parties should contact Baskerville.

Baddies Go Good?

Motherboard has invited a delegation of Cyberspace's biggest troublemakers to Control Central to try and work together for the good of Cyberspace. Participants include Wicked Witch, Queenie, Swipe, Mumsie and Baskervill. Hacker was not invited.

Dear Motherboard

Dear Motherboard,

I need help. My mom is mean to me. I want to be the baddest guy in Cyberspace, but she says I have to be home by dinner.

Signed, Warren

Dear Warren, You need...a new goal! Maybe you can be... nicest guy... in Cyberspace instead.

Signed, Motherboard

Come Visit Tikiville! By Creech, The Big Kahuna

A visit to our tropical paradise is a must for anyone who loves lush jungles, friendly people and palm trees! Legend says our gorgeous green landscape comes from the beautiful Egg of Benedicta, laid by the Tiki Bird long ago. As long as the egg is safe, so is Tikiville. You can even visit the Egg in its nest near our village. All who come to Tikiville are welcome... except of course Hacker.

Ms. Fileshare's Book of the Month

Mystery lovers everywhere will want to read The Howl of the Hydra by Cylock Homes. It's a fascinating story by the esteemed sleuth.

Ticktockia Timepieces

Father Time is proud to announce that clocks and watches from Ticktockia Timepieces are now available across Cyberspace. No need to risk that pesky "Crinkle in Time" at the entrance to Ticktockia. At Ticktockia Timepieces, we work for you. Our time is your time!

That's the end of the article, and it is also the end of the promotional material.

So, what did I think of it? This does feel like them wanting to re-use the formula from the "What's Hacker's Secret???" promotion. I enjoyed reading through this promotion, but its not as cool as the other one. That one did have Erica Ram's story on Slider, "The Heartbreak Kid", of course.

We do get hints at all five of those upcoming episodes. The Hacker is taking up art therapy. Wicked has her line of brooms (and a bizarre plan to use them to take over Cyberspace). A few villains have been invited to Control Central for a peace summit. Hopefully nothing important gets stolen while they are there. We hear about Ticktockia, and about how it has a "Crinkle in Time" ready to swallow the children. We learn about the Egg of Benedicta, and how plant life in Tikiville will die if some-Hacker removes it.

#cyberchase #2000s #cartoon #nostalgia #pbs kids #2000s childhood #archived web content #flashpoint archive #flashpoint project #longpost #cyberspace news

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8bitscarlet · 4 years ago

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Witchcraft

Summary: You've found yourself falling deeper into a certain witch's spell. But no matter how strong the magic is, it seems that the two of you just keep missing each other.

Pairing: Wanda Maximoff x Reader

Genre/Warnings: Angst/Fluff (minor cussing)

Word Count: 3.5k

A/N: This is a fic for @marvelxreaderfanfictionfest writing exchange. This one is for @mrsromanoff and the prompt: "I can't keep kissing strangers and thinking they're you." Hope you like it!

*please do not repost or translate my material or claim as yours.*

________________

You never thought your three month assignment with the Avengers would've extended as long as it has. Missions went by with minimal injuries and maximum wins. You found yourself settling well into the chaos of the compound; the echoing boasts of Thor, the competitive edge of Danvers and the snark between Romanoff and Stark. When your three months were up, it wasn't a surprise to anyone that you immediately signed the contract from Stark, an official placement on the team.

Despite all of the alien blasters, Hydra experiments and Tony's benefit parties, nothing could've prepared you for a single person to rock your world. It started innocently enough; stolen glances at meals and ensuring you two were on the same mission team. As time continued, things turned less innocent; sneaking off during charity balls to suck face in the broom closet, you could recall a few times you were nearly caught in the back of the Quinjet. There was something about this woman. The way her fingers slithered through your hair, how those green eyes made your heart say yes, she stripped you bare.

You had convinced yourself it was witchcraft. It had to be.

Sitting with your cheek pressed against your fist, you find yourself doodling as Steve drones on in the background. Someone nudges you and as you turn, Wanda raises her brows when your eyes connect. With a groan, you raise the pen in your hand. Steve notices, stopping his spiel to look at you with a clenched jaw.

"With all due respect, Cap, we all got in at four this morning. Do we need a recap of the mission right now?"

Steve sighs, glancing at everyone and seeing them agreeing with you. You all had barely had time to unpack, let alone write your after action reports.

"Alright, Y/N. We'll go over how your pants tore mid-fight on Monday."

You point your pen at him, warning him as you watch his stupid smile fill his face. Bucky slaps your shoulders in gratitude, picking up Alpine onto his shoulders as he strides out to find Sam. Wanda's fingers gently brush yours as you walk side by side, sending an electric charge through your body.

"You know, when someone says 'with all due respect,' they really mean, 'kiss my ass'." Wanda glances at you with a sly smile.

Walking backwards towards the couch, you outstretch your arms with a grin, "Because that's what I meant, darling."

Chuckling, you roll over the back of the couch and plop down onto the cushions, your head landing perfectly on a pillow. Wanda lets out a scoff, knowing how many times it's taken you to actually land on the cushion and not the floor.

Flipping through the pages of her book, you watch her through half-closed eyes. A year ago you'd be asking what she was reading. A year ago, she'd curl up with you and explain it all. A year ago, you didn't have guilt eating at you.

Things a year ago were more than good between you. There might have even been a chance beyond friends with benefits. You knew you wanted that. Every time you looked at her, you couldn't stop your pounding heart or the warmth that grew in your stomach.

But you were stupid.

Chickening out every chance you had to ask her on an actual date rather than sneaking around to make her moan. You both had set ground rules, no strings attached. If it got too messy, you both had to call it quits. So, you convinced yourself it was better to quietly love her and keep her, than to tell the truth and lose her.

That was before the year long mission with Carol and Bucky. Before you realized how big of a mistake it was two months in. Before every day texts and video chats diminished to every other week, then every other month. Before you got back to the compound and saw her kissing up on some random benefactor at the Welcome Home Party. It was definitely before she started dating that walking toaster, Vision.

Luckily, he hadn't been around much the past month so watching them kiss and stare into each other's eyes was doable, mostly because you turned whenever you saw that stupid spark plug.

Four months since coming home, you've tried to fill the void the witch had created in your body, your soul. You went out with Carol and Bucky, prowling the town and the bar. Matching shot for shot some nights, waking up in random apartments other nights. Eventually Bucky did what you never did.

He asked Sam on a date and that left you and Carol. Until she started hooking up with Maria and dragged her along so you wouldn't be hitting the bars alone. You had made yourself a pity case.

"Do you need something?" Wanda cocks a brow at you, making a face at your prolonged staring.

You clear your throat, feeling the heat rush through your face, "You look a little sunburnt."

With a shrug and a chuckle, Wanda bookmarks her page as she places it down on the coffee table. Standing, she sits down on the couch, your body automatically scooting over to accommodate her. Holding out her red and glowing hand, you watch her pull off her rings, displaying the radiating tan lines running up and down her fingers. A laugh escapes you as you feel her hand slap against your chest.

"I didn't have anyone to put sunscreen on me!" She groans, "It burns!"

You guide your finger gently down her exposed arm, pressing in slightly to her warm skin. As you lift, you see the true color of her skin before it's bombarded with the glowing red of her burn. Glancing up, her green eyes watch you carefully, both of you not acknowledging the weight of her hand still on your chest.

"An aloe vera massage would do wonders," You whisper, "And I'm all out."

With a roll of her eyes, she leans back into your legs, "You really are a pain in my ass, y'know? When I tell people about you, that's the first thing I say."

Watching her float the remote to her awaiting hand, you grin, "Oho, so you're telling people about me, huh?"

"Please, check the ego there."

For the next moment, the two of you sit peacefully in each other's silence. Wanda was one who clung to those she trusted. When you came back, it was like she had superglued herself to you any time you walked into the room. It didn't help that you were still madly in love and she was taken.

Right now though, you watch her delicate fingers play with yours. Her eyes squinting with laughter as she watches her sitcoms, glancing to see if you're laughing as well.

A commercial echoes through the living room and Wanda lets out a sigh for attention, patting your thigh as she drops your hand. You don't move it as it lands atop her thigh, only gently stroke your thumb against the silky skin you wish could press against yours. Letting out a noise that you're both awake and paying attention to her, she glances over at you.

"Since you got Captain America to actually give us a free weekend, what's your plan tonight, casanova?"

You shrug, "I have early training with Bucky and-."

Wanda moves her whole body to face you, your hand slipping from her thigh as confusion spreads across her face. She lets out an unbelieving scoff,

"You're joking. You used to show up half drunk to training and still kick ass."

She's watching you carefully and you try to keep a neutral look on your face, she knows all of your quirks. Glancing up at her with a small grin, you pull your legs into you. Shifting yourself, you sit properly on the couch and run your hands through your hair.

"Just don't want to go out tonight. It's boring." You chuckle, trying to swallow the lump in your throat.

Wanda rolls her eyes, "Why, no one catches your eye anymore?"

Another playful nudge and you sigh. All this playful teasing, these light touches. She has to know what she's doing.

Trying to keep a steady and nonchalant shrug, you shake your head,

"No one out there."

And you might've gotten away with it. Instead, you fell into the magnetic pull of those green eyes that cause you so much trouble. As your eyes land on hers, you can see the dilation within her pupils. Then the realization across her face. Her playful grin falls as she stares at you, blinking slowly.

"Y/N," She says slowly, "If you're doing what I think-."

You stand up quickly, your feet taking you to the other end of the coffee table. In two days you'll be gone and you'll be back in the place you hate being in right now. Placing your hands on your waist, you look up from your tapping foot.

"Wanda, I can't keep kissing strangers and thinking they're you."

Silence meets your face. You watch her as she slowly nods at you, "That's exactly what you're doing."

Groaning, she slides her fingers through her hair, pinning it from her face. Wanda lets out a careful breath before looking up at you, "What happened to no strings?"

Slapping your hands against your thighs in frustration, you let out a scornful chuckle, "Come on, Wanda. You know those rules were bullshit! No strings means not going on exclusive trips to museums and restaurants!" You watch her eyes flicker around the room, trying to find a way to disprove what you're saying. "It means not staying up all night when the other is sick!"

Wanda stands up quickly and you can see the look on her face, she knows what you're getting to. Waving her hand to get you to shut up, she tries to get to the stairs but your words blurt from your mouth,

"It means not falling in love!"

Her feet stop carrying her towards the stairs, her body frozen in the middle of the compound. Carefully, you step towards her, leaning ever so slightly to try and catch her eyes. They're glazed over from your confession, trying to understand the implications.

"I left. I..." You suck in a shaky breath, "I thought it would be easier if I wasn't here. You were so adamant about no strings, Wands. I broke the only rule, why would I stay?"

Her head jerks back at your words, her brows furrowing deeply down her face. Without another second to keep talking, Wanda's feet pivot as she shoots a finger into your face. You jerk away from her advance, seeing the growing mist within her eyes as she shouts,

"That's why you left?"

The crack in her voice sends one through your heart.

She turns quickly, her hands violently wiping at the tears that have broken free. You clench your brows. She's angry at you? You're the one who's had to watch her prance around with Vision, you just a memory of romance. Just before she can grab her bag and leave, you call out,

"Well, you seem to have fared better than me!"

As the words leave your lips, you bite down hard and shut your eyes. A surprised choke exits Wanda's throat as she throws her purse back onto the side table, knocking over the decorative bowl of rocks. They scatter across the ground but she doesn't notice, all of her rage is pointing at you. Her fingers run violently through her auburn hair, looking like she wants to rip it out.

"You are infuriating!" She jabs a fingers at you, "Why think that?! Because I'm dating Vision? He's filling a void, dumbass!"

Her words stab into you as her stomps draw nearer, you can feel the heat of her anger. She's not done, she's not letting you off easy.

"Every time he touches me, every time he kisses me. God, Y/N! All I can see is your dumb face."

Wanda's heavy breath washes over you as she finally stops her assault, so close you can see the blue in her green eyes. Her body radiates out to you and you have to force your hands into your pocket to not grab her and kiss her. Your eyes dip to her lips but you see sadness that has quickly replaced the facade of anger. Making a small fist, she slams it into your chest as her head bows. Her arm slides down your body, hanging limply at her side as she looks to you.

"Why didn't you talk to me?"

Wanda's fingers twitch forward, wanting to grab onto you. You sigh, taking your hands from your pockets and resting them on your waist. Your confession was supposed to be more romantic than this. Instead, you brought up issues you both were trying to ignore. You were angry now at yourself, taking it all out on the person you loved. You'd spent too long with all of this pent up emotion though, and it was all pouring out in waves.

"I have to finish my requisition forms. Get my gear ready."

You don't have to look up to know what face Wanda is making at you. It's the same face she had when you left the first time. The way her brows clenched together in disbelief, the pain behind her reddened eyes that threatened to spill more tears, how her chin trembled as she tried to breathe.

Her voice barely passes a whisper but standing so close, you hear every broken syllable, "You're leaving again."

You sigh, rubbing your throbbing temples as you feel your nose stuff up.

"You drop all of that on me and you're just going to turn around and leave?"

Shaking your head, you want this conversation to end. It's obvious where she is and it's not next to you.

"Don't you have a date or something?" You ask.

Wanda's been around you too long to not see exactly what you're doing. She lets out a chuckle, a lethal look in her eyes.

"No, you're right. And that date seems a hell of a lot better than this." Without another word, she snatches her purse from the table and starts to climb the stairs, leaving your feet frozen. Just as she reaches the middle of the staircase, she stops. You can feel her stare burning into you and as you look her way, you wish you hadn't.

"You're a coward."

Those words burn into your brain, rising through your ears and torture you for the rest of the day. The only thing you could think to do was slam your fists into the closest thing. The punching bags. People came and went, eyeing you try and punch away your frustrations to no avail. When the sun finally had sunk below the horizon, one Avenger had enough of your pity party.

"You know she's right." A voice comes from behind you.

You don't respond to them, just dodge the swaying bag. They walk into the room, stopping just inside of your peripheral.

"You're an idiot, you know."

With a chuckle, you sidestep the bag, "You need to be a little more specific."

"You're losing her again."

Another punch, "Uh huh."

Carol sighs next to you, "And you sent her away on her date."

"Yup."

She steps in front of the bag, stopping its movement and stares at you with determination in her eyes, "And you're not going after her?"

Avoiding her stare, you start to unwrap your hands, wiping at the sweat that pours down your face. Stopping, you can feel the cramp in your side and the throbbing of your knuckles. Chucking the wrap, you let out a shrug,

"Is there a point?"

Carol shoves the bag into you, grabbing your attention, "I am not going on another mission with you while you sulk. Do you know you talk in your sleep? Yeah. Guess what name I heard that whole year?"

You shake you head, licking your chapped lips as you search for water, "She didn't say it back."

You hear an exasperated chuckle from Carol, "Y'know Y/N, I'm going to go on a limb and say she wasn't expecting all of that to be thrown in her face."

Shooting her a glare, she keeps talking, "I'm saying this once. If you think this is going to be some cheesy Rom-Com where she bursts through those doors and confesses her love, you're more of an idiot than I thought." A finger jabs hard into your chest as you grimace, "You need to fix this."

Carol leaves you there with your head filled with more thoughts than before. Wanda was happy with Vision wasn't she? She hadn't talked about him much but you knew she had to be. Who were you to go and screw that up?

Night turned into morning and after staring up at your ceiling, you knew you weren't getting any sleep.

Sneaking down the stairs, you see everyone is still asleep. You take the opportunity to sit in more silence and wait for the coffee machine to finish steaming. The sun was just beginning to shine its red hues into the kitchen as you stood at the counter, twirling your empty mug. Lost in thought, you failed to hear the padding of feet coming down the stairs.

"I thought you had early training."

With a quiet chuckle, you lean into the counter, "You caught me."

In silence, you watch the witch pour in her coffee. The same amount of creamer and sugar every time, the same motions every morning since you've noticed her. Turning, she sees your mindless fingers twisting and turning your empty mug. Wanda raises her brows and holds out her hand,

"Refill?"

You hand over the mug and watch her work her magic on the black liquid, turning it into the caramel drink you love. Breathing in deeply, you watch the bubbles swirl around the liquid. You furrow your brows,

"I can never make mine taste-."

"We broke up."

Her words slam into you, your breath catching inside of your throat. Looking up, Wanda stands there in the middle of the kitchen, unsure if she had truly spoken or not. She looks up at you, her mouth closing as she realizes she doesn't know what she's doing.

"What? Wands, are you okay?" You start to stand to go and comfort her, you know they had a date yesterday. Did the son of a microwave hurt her?

Wanda's hand rises, stopping you in your tracks before she takes a quiet breath, "We broke up almost a month ago, Y/N."

Nodding at your obliviousness, you knock your knuckles against the counter as you press your lips into a thin line, "We're both liars then."

"Tell me you lied about the mission," She whispers, leaning into the counter. Her fingers laying gently across yours.

Your chest constricts as you sigh, "I didn't."

You watch her sullen nod, curling hair falling out of her messy bun as you gently graze your thumb across her knuckles. She quietly chuckles,

"We just missed each other."

Stopping your thumb, you clench your jaw. This isn't going to happen again.

"Wanda," You whisper, listening to the sad hum she gives you as she glances up with bloodshot eyes, "I'm sorry. I was scared and... I was an idiot."

Wanda pats your hand with a loud sniff, "I appreciate it, but-."

She doesn't continue. She doesn't want to believe that you're leaving. The love you feel wouldn't be strong enough to survive that time apart again. There's broken support beams and one thing will send it falling down. A far away mission isn't the nurturing this budding feeling needs.

Wanda tries her best to flash you a grin, "Let me teach you how to make coffee."

Before she can turn, you grab her hand quickly, "I'd prefer if you made it."

As you walk around the counter, you gently rest a hand on her waist, watching her carefully. Her handgrips your arm tightly, words stuttering from her lips as she tries to remind you that she's not going. You're leaving her again.

Without hesitation, you press your lips against hers, feeling her breath wash over you in a sigh. You pull her in tighter, leaning your head back to speak,

"Sam's going stir crazy. He can have it."

A smile tugs at your lips as you see her furrowed brows on her face, you place a kiss at the center of the wrinkles, pulling back to see the scrunching of her nose. A scrunch just for you.

"Wanda Maximoff. I love you. And I'm not losing you twice."

Without warning, her lips smash against your as she wraps her arms around your shoulders as you hoist her up. Wanda's legs wrap around you as both of you are smiling so wide that you can't kiss properly. Feeling her cold hands press gently against your face, you look into those green eyes that complete you life.

"I love you." Wanda whispers as her witchcraft wraps around you once more.

#marvelxreader #marvelxreader fanfic fest 2021 #wanda #wanda maximoff #wanda marvel #wanda x reader #wanda maximoff x reader #wanda fluff #wanda angst #wanda mcu #WOM2021

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chad-valorant-enjoyer-and-writer · 2 years ago

Text

[ Chamber x Viper ]

[ Gilded Gold and Harmless Poison ]

Part-10

Ever since Sova had learned about the after effects of his mission, he was both incredibly surprised and happy for the two. They were both the most dysfunctional people– after Omen– he knew. It brought him joy was they found solice in one another.

Another thing he missed, is Cypher finally being able to move unassisted. Not soom after his recovery he found out about the whole "VDKD (Viper's Date and Kiss Discussion)," he wasted no time in passing the news to Brimstone.

Brimstone was speechless when he heard. He was both concerned and happy for her.

"So... Valentino Francois..." Brimstone read out a file. "Born in france, Orphan, 28 years old and a crypto millionare."

Viper was glaring at Brimstone. "You investigated him!?" she wasn't pleased.

Brimstone immediately raised both his hands, even he, the commander, didn't want the legendary fury of Viper. "I just want to tell you that he is a good man, and I am happy for you. Nothing suspicious about him and no prior arrests or infraction– he's perfect for you. I just want to make sure your taken care of Sabine."

Viper huffed. "Thanks, Liam."

Brimstone smiled softly. "You're welcome. And be for you go, you can meet him in person every four months and I've sternly instructed Cypher not to pry into your conversations and isn't allowed to . You have my blessing Sabine."

***

Vincent had been energized as of late, he was on cloud9. Though rurmos had spread amongst his lady customers that he's taken and the profits have gone down slightly– he couldn't care less.

Not only was his love life in order, his plans to stop his father's reign of power in Kingdom was complete. Soon, he can bring Kingdom to its knees with over

He also talks to Viper daily through a messenger app. Apparently her next "break" is in four months. So text will have to do for now.

***

It's been two months since the Paris Date.

Viper set up her room to make it look like a modern house, instead of how it usually looked. She hastily put on a bit of makeup and set her appearance straight. The time "difference" between their two locations is eight hours.

So if she calls right now, it's 8:00pm, it would be 6:00am for Valentino. She presses the Video call feature and it rang for a few second before being picked up.

"Hello?" Valentino asked, his hoarse morning voice sending shivers down her spine.

"It's me, Val'." Viper blushed slightly. He finally accepted the Video request to reval his bare, muscular upper body. He fumbled a bit, finding his glasses, and accidentally gave Viper an eye full of his raging morning item, bulging from his pants.

Viper then looked somewhere else. "Hello Mon amour, how has you day been?"

This was their routine, they'd call at this time, when their schedule's free times coincide and they'd talk for about two hours.

The call would end when Vincent started walking down the apartment stairsand Cross the street to the coffee shop he now owned. The owner just gave him the shop one day as she viewed him as his own son. She's retired now.

Ever since his new ownership of the cafe, it had gone through a massive expansion and refurbishment. It doubled in size and the number of employees required to run it tripled, from two to six.

It now goes by [ Harmless Poison ], an odd choice of name, which ironically boosted its popularity. He named it that when Viper accidentally said that she was developing poison-based medicine.

It has been visited by popular celebrities and have been used in photoshoots, with Valentino sometimes being in the frame. This surge in popularity raised a few articles naming the now famous owner: "Valentino Valentine."

This cause a surge of sales that he had to expand again, this time he had a bakery.

Viper had been keeping about the articles on her phone. Overall this relationship, although long distance, has helped both of them for the better.

Vincent wasn't much of a narcissistic prick, reliving his past of scrounging up money to survive through odd jobs– that caused his hands to get dirty– he became a new man. A better man.

Viper was now more outgoing, she became another mother figure to the team, like Sage, who gladly showed her the ropes. She's now someone the agents would go through for advice and even medical help– something they never did, well because she's scary.

The team dinner they held everytimenthey could helped her develop her people skills. So far they've been having a great time until phoenix spoke up. "Come on Viper! You gotta let us meet this guy! Look, this man changed you for the better. It just took a single kiss–"

The last bit caused a howl of laughter and a spoon to fly at Phoenix's head.

Omen nodded at Phoenix's statement. He was an old friend of Sabine, after traumatic experience for them both, they undoubtly changed. So imagine his greatfulness when a Frenchman suddenly brought her out of her old shell, bringing her walls down– bring back the outgoing Dr. Sabine of old. He was ecstatic for her, and he wanted to meet this man. "Yes. I agree with the boy, I want to meet this man. I even have a present."

The table showed similar reactions begot Killjoy dropped her cup. "Oh shit."

They all looked at her. She then oullebdup her computer and pulled up an article.

"[ ❤️ The Valentine and the Valkarie ❤️ ]"

The article was bright and filled with a long compilation of photos of Valentino and the Famous Woman's soccer player: Mary Grace nicknamed the Valkarie.

The table went somber. "What the–" Reyna gasped.

They read the article compiling "Credible" theories of the relationship. It even contained a specific photo in a golden card. The Valkarie kissing a surprised Valentino.

Viper widened her eyes in horror before she got up and went to her room. "This has to be a bloody joke!" Phoenix screamed.

"Viper! This c-could just be some sort of misunderstanding! The media embellish a lot of things all the time! Viper!" Sage tried to follow.

After then for the following two weeks, Viper turned to her old self, only this time, much harsher. It got so bad that the agents could barely get up the next day for her "training."

Brimstone was blind to the possibilities of any other way and was mad at the man. He was going to tear him apart.

The team had enough. And they were going to take matters into their own hands.

Killjoy, Fade, Reyna, Jett, Phoenix, Sage, Omen and Sova snuck out one night through the teleporter and landed in France. They were in their casual wear and they blended in as a group of tourists.

They immediately followed Sova's lead, the soon arrived at the coffee shop, or what was left of it. The large glass windows were destroyed, and the shop had graffiti all over it. The only one present was the shop keeper, trying to piece together what can be slavadged.

The group then stopped dead in their tracks. Sova was first to speak. "What the fuck?"

They rushed over to see the handsome man, with a bandaged arm and leg, having a hard time walking.

They entered through the busted glass doors, the bell still chiming. "What bloody happened here?" Phoenix asked, genuinely concerned

Valentino just turned around, he had a hurt expression and a black eye. "Sorry, I'm closed for the day– until further notice."

"What happened here?" Omen asked, his deep voice growling.

Valentino just sighed. "I was attacked, what else?" He replied, exhausted and in pain. "I'm not in the situation to serve guests, please go somewhere else!"

"We're Sabine's friends and colleagues." Reyna huffed, getting his attention.

Valentino turned around, in shock. Not the face they were expecting. They were expecting a guilty, cheaters face– Omen was ready to finished what his attackers started– he was instead very concerned.

"Oh, her colleagues yes? Is she well?" He asked, walking forward, when his legs gave out.

Sova cought the man and assisted him to chair. "Are you alright?" He asked.

Valentino immediately ignored him. "Is she alright!?"

They were all surprised. "Ever since that– bloody article! She hasn't returned my calls or even read my messages. I didn't have contact with her and I wasn't sure she was alright–"

They watched. Him ramble on about her safety and wellbeing, while Sova is litterally stopping a open, bleeding wound. He was more concerned of her safety than his own. This was no cheater. Fade detected a trace of fear. The man wasn't afraid form himself, but for her out of genuine care.

Phoenix shushed the man. "She's okay... Just a bit mad"

They all looked at him, in disbelief.

"Alright maybe she's a little– pissed.. Nah fam, she's livid. She like a blown up volcano." He corrected himself.

Valentino relaxed. "That's good... That's good... S-so–" He winced as Sova stopped the bleeding. Killjoy was calling an ambulance. "I'm sorry I can't serve you in my current state."

Omen finally spoke up. "What happened?"

Valentino looked at him and his friends before sighing. "Let's just say that Mary came by the shop after our last argument. I outright refused to date her, in front of a group of media photographers."

Killjoy stopped him. "Wait– I didn't hear of this?"

The man looked at her. "Of course you didn't. Something like that would hurt her reputation so they've been paid of... Or something. May I continue?"

"Sorry, please continue." Killjoy meekly apologised.

"I told her that I had been dating Sabine and I'm on a long distance relationship. She didn't take it very well, and left after throwing a sugar jar into my eye. I thought that was it and didn't think of pressing charges. Suddenly last night, a group of armed attackers broke into my apartment –" he motion to the large bulding across the street, the glass windows were also broken." –and here we are."

"Can't you just press charges? Pull up CCTV camera footage?" Killjoy finally spoke up.

Valentino shook his head. "Sorry, I didn't install any cameras yet. The shop was just refurbushed, all the wiring had been torn out."

"Well shit." Fade muttered. Omen was seething. How dare they do something like that to a good man.

The ambulance came and the respond ant were appealed. "La merde s’est produite ici? (The fuck happened here?)"

The immediately noticed the injured coffeshop owner and assisted him into the ambulance. "To pay for your troubles, there is a refrigerator in the back. Hopefully there are still untouched contents inside. I'm sorry I can't offer you all right away."

The ambulance rode away.

They just sat inside the shop, waiting for the police to arrive. Phoenix and Jett were sharing a cake, with one fork, because its the only thing that survived.

"We're going to fix this." Killjoy slammed her hands on a table.

"Damn right we do. After I get my hands on those that harmed the man–" Phoenix made strangling expressions which everybody nodded.

"and were going to drag Viper's dramatic ass over here and mend their relationship." Sage said.

They all looked at her shocked that she swore. The very sweet sage swore. She was obviously mad.

Omen didn't even have to say anything,, his clenched fists did, and will do all the talking. They gave their testimonies to the policd before returning to the Valorant headquarters like they never left.

To be continued.

A/N: if Sage, of all people, is swearing– you know they done fucked up.

#valorant #valorant chamber #valorant viper #fanfic #valorant fanfiction

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hwauas · 4 years ago

Text

🎭: "belladonna"

jung wooyoung | 정오영 - 2,086 words

you couldn't believe this day came. the adrenaline was rushing through your veins. Wooyoung, the Jeong Wooyoung, coming over tonight. you spend the day preparing your house, cooking the dinner, and of course getting ready. you needed everything to be ready, and to be perfect.

the table was ready. some flowers in a vase. two plates, two cutlery sets, and two glasses for water. you dispatched few pearls on the white tablecloth. you created a soft atmosphere thanks to candles on the table, and little lamps in the rooms. you made sure all your apartment was cleaned. everything needed to be at its place.

it looked like you were having your boyfriend over. but Wooyoung wasn't your boyfriend. and would never be your boyfriend. who would like to date someone like him? it was just a formal dinner between you both.

of course, over the year, you learnt to stop having pity for wrong people. your work forced you to build your heart into a heart of stone. people were bad. and you couldn't do anything for them. it was the path they choose, and so they chose the consequences. they were aware few people — or nobody — would appreciate them. and these person would slowly turn themselves into agressive and antisocial, becoming lonely, so lonely. this is how it works.

Wooyoung was one of them. he was searched by a lot of mafia gangs. sometimes for little crimes: swearing, assaulting, or for some debts. but also for big crimes: stealing important informations from these gangs, spying on them.

among these mafias looking after him, the popular S-SK band of mafias. according to rumors, S-SK was for Seoul-South Korea. yet, any informations ever leaked before about that or something else.

anyways, Wooyoung was clearly involved into the dark side of the city, and even S-SK was chasing him. you were doubting about something or someone saving him. he was in too big troubles.

tic. toc. tic. toc.

the clock announced 8pm, and quickly after, the doorbell announced someone was here. Wooyoung, of course.

you didn't really like the fact you were having someone's like him over. but you had to do it for your boss. it was just an evening. just a moment, before getting rid of him.

“y/n. thank you for receiving me.”

Wooyoung entered your apartment and removed his shoes.

“i was surprised when i was told to come here instead. weren't we supposed to meat at your boss's place?”

“yeah, that's right. but there is a hold-up. he asked me if i was okay with seeing you without him and i just couldn't cancel this dinner less than twenty-four hours before. i hope you don't mind?”

“not at all. i appreciate you didn't cancel. i'd have get mad. thank you.”

you faked a smile, and asked him to follow you to your living room. you made him sit on your sofa. and after giving your dear Wooyoung something to drink, you sat besides him, on the sofa.

“so. about this deal. what is it?”

Wooyoung asked as he sipped on the whiskey you gave him.

“oh come on. we have so much time to talk about this. don't be this formal.”

Wooyoung only sighed and sank into your sofa.

“when did it all started?”

“start what?”

by his behaviour and the tone of his voice, you recognise a nonchalance. he was annoyed — you cut him to the quick.

“being... bad. stealing, spying on, having debts on purpose. all that.”

you had a serious gaze on him. you knew you needed to have a control on yourself not to help him — anyways he was a lost cause. you just needed to stall for time.

“i don't remember when exactly. i was just... young. it started with little things. and i was failure to my parents. they never encourage me to do something. the only one that believed in me left. since i've never been a fan of school, i never did anything by myself to study, to work or anything. you know.. just people here and there got me into this. and i'm not complaining. i have somewhere to sleep. something to eat everyday. somewhere to take showers. clothes. it's enough i guess.”

he was avoiding your gaze, looking straight in front of him. there was the turned off TV.

“who left? who was he, or she?”

you were curious about what he just told you. it was very intriguing: you needed to know more about this for your own pleasure.

“San. a friend. my best friend.”

Wooyoung sipped on his whiskey again, and so you did on yours. you didn't really know what to say.

“but you don't need to know much about him, right? so leave him alone.”

with that, Wooyoung finished his glass of alcohol in one gulp. you understood what does this mean: you couldn't ask anything about this San anymore. you then stood up and went to the kitchen. Wooyoung wandered around to find the dining room, and sat on a chair in front of a plate. the atmosphere got him less tensed, and you immediately knew you did good.

you came back with the dish, and served you both. it was steaming, yet once you came back from the kitchen to put back the dish there, you both started to eat.

“so i was saying, about-”

“about the deal. i know. this is what you're waiting impatiently since you arrived here, Wooyoung. okay. then let's discuss about this.”

you didn't say anything, wanting him to go first. after all, he was the one obsessed with that. right?

“so, since this agency is holding files we are both interested in, but since their security is very strong, i thought about infiltrating someone in there. we can pretext it's for an internship, for few days. but then, the person there has to be very cautious.”

Wooyoung didn't say more after, and continued to eat. it seemed he was liking what you've done.

you waited longer, hoping him to continue — which he didn't. you then frowned, and stopped eating for a moment.

“what for?”

“the security. all the parts in the building are well secured.”

he rolled his eyes, as if you asked the dumbest question ever. but you were too focused on his lips to notice this. Wooyoung was eating everything. and this fulfilled your heart with joy and happiness.

“do you think somebody will make it through the whole security system to steal the files?”

”of course.~”

you kept in mind all the informations he gave you until now, eating your plate till it was empty. you were thinking again and again about what he told you. you had to remember everything. every single details. but you wanted to stare at your victory too.

“i'm getting thirsty. can i have some.. water.. please?”

Wooyoung's voice was very low. every words seemed hard to say.

“of course, Wooyoung.”

you sat up and went to the kitchen to grab a bottle of water from your fridge — one you prepared on purpose for him before, meticulously. you came back, and opened the bottle to pour it in his glass.

“by any chance, you don't have any information about the security? where are cameras? where are stocked the videos? where is their room to look through these cameras? any motion detector, or metal detector?”

Wooyoung tried to drink, but he couldn't swallow more than three times. he gave up for the moment, and just focused back on you.

“i do. it's in my phone. but as long as i'm not sure we're both into this, i won't show anything.”

his voice got raspy, and he ended up almost whispering. you faked a reaction, worrying about him.

“are you okay? you wanna lay down maybe..?”

you asked with fake worried eyes. but deep down, you were happy. everything was working. everything was going well.

Wooyoung nodded. he took a deep breath as he was trying hard to keep his head up. his pale skin under his dark clothes started to shine: he was sweating. drops here and there were forming, rolling, and disappeared somewhere on his clothes.

you stood up and went by his side. you tried to get him back on his feet, and almost pulled him through the rooms to lay him down on your sofa — but you knew this position wouldn't help at all. you made sure he was comfortable in your sofa, and left to clean the table. once you were in the kitchen, far from him, you couldn't help but squeal in happiness.

“y/n: 1. Wooyoung: 0.”

you whispered to yourself, all happy about what you achieved. you were cruel, but you were loving this part of you — even though it already scared you in the past.

“oh please don't scream like that! my head! it hurts even more!”

Wooyoung tried to shout out, but it hurt him even more than the squeal you did. since you knew what happening to him, you knew this noise you made have been altered: the sound seemed closer, stronger, and higher.

“i'm sorry.”

once again, you used your talents to fake your emotions. worry, and guilty about your squeal. you put down the bottle of water and the glass on the coffee table.

“i'll get you some medicines. and a wet towel. wait for me.”

you rushed through your apartment to get these. once you were in your bathroom, the door closed, you took out your phone to call your boss. of course, you tried to stay as discreet as possible. you even put a random towel in the washbasin and turned on the tap to pretend you were indeed moistening the fabric for him.

“about time! i thought you would never call me!”

“i'm sorry boss. it got a little bit longer. but everything's fine. he ate everything. and i managed to gave him water too. and of course, i watered the poison down in this water too.”

you said with shining eyes. you were proud of yourself. it was an another mission you accomplished.

“okay but the way you're getting rid of him, i don't give a fuck, Belladonna. i wanna know about the informations you've got from him.”

you tried to sum up all the informations your boss needed. anyways, you would meet him to tell him everything in details.

and you smiled as your boss again complimented your work.

“i knew you wouldn't disappoint me. you're not the best S-SK member for no reason.”

you finally hang up with him quickly after. looking at your reflection in the mirror, you offered yourself a smirk. you made sure to arrange your top, making sure to reveal a tattoo on your collarbone. the words 'S-SK : Belladonna' were written here, under your skin.

you were a member of this mafia band. Belladonna was your code name, and somewhat your new identity since you chose this path.

even though you did horrible things, you would never ever give up on S-SK.

you took the towel, and barely wrung it. you came back by Wooyoung, slowly dying in your sofa. and the first thing he noticed what your tattoo. the fear slowly appeared in his eyes, and all over his face.

“S-SK..? Belladonna..? i trusted you..! how could you..!”

Wooyoung tried to do something, but he was too weak. even screaming was hurting him even more.

“shhh, honey... the poison is taking the leads. give up. you have no chance.”

“the.. poison..?”

“the belladonna, honey. why do you think my code name is Belladonna? because i kill with the belladonna, of course.”

you put the towel on his forehead. it would change nothing. of course.

“belladonna, a flower. isn't it paradoxical that a flower.. so precious, so delicate, so beautiful.. can kill a human? i look harmless. but i kill. just as you, i'm a bad person, Wooyoung. you're not the only mafiosi here, honey.”

as Wooyoung finally gave up, you took his phone from his pocket. you left your apartment, locking him up in there. anyways, as he was dying, he couldn't do anything.

you texted two S-SK members to ask them to get rid of the corpse for you. and of course, your boss and you would use Wooyoung's information without any misgivings.

in this life, the strongest makes the rules.

it's killing.. or being killed. and guilty or sorrow weren't feelings anymore for you. a S-SK mafia.

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guigz1-coldwar · 3 years ago

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'An lot of things ' : New chapter for "Redemption in a Spirit in a Cold War" is out !

"An lot of things"

Chapter Summary : After talks in her head with 'Bell' & Lazar while the others were saving her, Yirina could finally awake, free from 2 weeks of been an Perseus prisoner.....and she has an lot of things to say....

Link of the Picrew used !

To read it on AO3, click here !

Words : +3000

Taglist : @snowgoldwaylon , @clxudtea , @efingart

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Again....I have to wait again....again. I don't know in fact if they managed to save me....or they failed but I'm still thinking so they must have succeeded. When the safehouse disappeared along with Lazar...with everything, it could have probably means that they were getting at the end of the operation to save me. I don't know how but during that long wait, I could have swear that in the back of my head, their voices...I could hear them perfectly at sometimes, trying to keep me alive, to ensure that me, Yirina Grigoriev, will open her eyes again after I passed out and continue to live....

And that what I could feel in my body when, after an very long time of patience, my eyes could finally open slowly, still blurry before discovering where I was now. It was an medical room, the one of the safehouse of Verdansk, me in an sort of hospital bed, still dressed in the same clothes I had for 2 weeks now with the slight difference that bandages were felt below an new shirt that replaced the bloody one, right on the gunshot wound at an few centimeters from my heart, that pain still present.

However, there were no one present in the room except me....&....& Park, laid down on another bed, still sleeping and seeing her like that, it was making me mostly sad, fearing for her state since the moment that she passed out in the jeep but it was looking like she was better on her face. I couldn't stay on that medical bed, despite my state. I was maybe feeling an pain in the shoudler but I was able to get out of the bed, going next to Park's one...to be close of her....they took us apart for 2 weeks, only able to see her once in that period.

"Park." I whispered as I was arriving near her bed, posing my hands delicately on it to look at her before I decided to put my right hand on her face, wanting to feel that touch on my fingers. "We did it...we escaped." I repeated my words of hope to her and....she brought an little smile on her face as she was unconscious, maybe having heard me or dreaming of me.....an smile that I missed.

Honestly, I wanted to take her in my arms, tell her how much I love her and stay with her but....I didn't want to worsen her state, preferring to let her wake up properly before actually doing this with her. As I was so much thinking of her, I was remember Lazar's suggestion in my head....'ask her hand'....it was an good idea and I could refind my mother's ring, still inside the same pocket I put it along with Adler's sunglasses. I took it but for the moment, I decided to keep it with me, putting it at my own hand.

"I'm coming back, Park." I said as I decided to let Park alone for the moment, trying to go find the others before putting an little kiss on her forehead and then, starting to walk slowly out of the room.

I thought that I would find someone that were probably going to get here but instead, I was met with nobody in the small hallway that was separating the dorm to the main room and seeming like it was the beginning of the day, it was more likely to find everyone back in where they were all working and when I slowly open the door, I could find an group of them around what I remember to be Woods's office.

"Bullshit !" The first person that I heard inside that room was Woods himself, sounding an bit enthusiatic....but it wasn't because I was here because he didn't see me, no one saw me....must be playing with cards....

"One queen." I then heard Song spoke up, the person that Woods was looking at. "And....two queens !" She then exclaimed when she put her card on the middle of the desk....is that this game Zasha talked about weeks ago ?...

"How in the fucking world ?" Woods complained, almost ready to throw out his own cards away and no one in the room was seeing me as I was arriving near them...slowly. "It's impossible to have two queens in here !" He then start to pick up the cards in the middle.

"You're just an loser or something, Woods ?" Sims scoffed, an smile on his face before I decided to intervene.

"By looking at it, yes !" I replied at Woods place, laughing about it before retracting because of the pain.

"Go fuck yourself, Yirina !" He yelled, sounding very normal before everyone stopped themselves in their moves, all eyes going wide as they were all now looking at me...finally...."My god !" Woods breathed, been the first to go up from his chair, soon followed by Sims, Wolf & Song.

"Good to see you all." I told them as Woods make the first move, going to take me in his arms, wrapping them around me.....an bit firmly. "Woods, my shoulder." I whispered to him as his arms weren't doing very good to me now.

"Oh shit, I'm sorry." He apologized, withdrawing from me with an smile on his face.

"And we all thought to have lose you." Sims proclaimed, moving to shake hands with me, thinking that he wouldn't do like Woods. "You gave to everyone an damn scare." He added after we shook hands.

"But as we see, you're back." Song was the next one, repeating the same process with her before doing the same thing with Wolf.

"Might need some bourbon, would you ?" Wolf proposed gently but I politely refused for that, gesturing that it wasn't an good idea for me.

"I....how is everyone ?" I asked to all like that.

"Oh, we're well !" Sims responded, removing his cap to scratch his forehead as I moved to get sit on an chair near by....from an desk that wasn't even mine...I couldn't remember where it was. "And you ?"

"I can't really say that I'm well to be honest." I claimed even after getting that promised freedom, it was going to take time....an long time before we can...if we can forget about these events. "I'm sure that you want to know what happened."

"If you don't want to tell, it's okay." Woods expressed his worries about what happened during 2 weeks to me & Park but they all needed to know.

"No, it's important." I told him before I looked around the room, only seeing the four of them inside. "Where's Hudson ?" I demanded.

"He took an flight back to the US...he said that he needed to check up Adler's recovery." Wolf answered as the group were also going to sit on their chairs, moving them to get next to me.

"So, Adler is now safe & already away..." I whispered, thinking about him and seeing him, getting treated perfectly by the CIA. "By the way before starting, take those, Sims." I added, wanting to give Adler's sunglasses to him.

"No, you should give them back to him by yourself, it's better." Sims refused to take them, causing me to keep them with me, wondering why Sims wouldn't want them now.

"What happened, Grigoriev ?" Song questioned me, already in the subject.

"Well, it turned out that our mission in the Yamantau was an trap : Hudson set us up." I started and like I predicted, eyes went wide at all sides.

"That's why that fucker flied away, he didn't want to face you after you accused him to set you up." He rolled his eyes around, looking at Hudson's desk in shame.

"We were captured and it seems that we were hold in an Kastovian base at the north of Verdansk." I continued to tell them the story, slowly because I wanted to tell them...everything. "In fact, they didn't try to torture us." I admitted but I know that this was false...they tortured us mentally. "Just at the beginning."

"Only at the beginning ?" Wolf repeated.

"Wolf, let her speak." Sims objected, putting his hand on Wolf's shoulder before making an sign with his head to continue.

"They tried to make me pass some tests...to bring me back." I said, realizing that I couldn't lie anymore. "Okay, I stop to lie now, I need to tell the truth about who I am !"

"Yirina, you don't..."

"I have to do this, Woods." I cut him straight in his words. "I never actually defected from Perseus...well, I wanted to but someone in the CIA saw something else." I took an deep breath and closing my eyes. "Adler actually brainwashed me." I revealed despite that Sims, Woods & Song were already aware of it but not Wolf.

"Brainwashed ?" I could see him move his lips that were basically saying these words.

"I was given an name...Bell." I whispered, mixed about thinking of that name....was it good or bad ? "The CIA were trying to break me into revealing Perseus location and I did tell them but what I gained was an bullet in the head." I exclaimed, pointing at my scar. "I only woke up 4 months ago in an hospital in Moscow."

"Shit but what happened next ?" Wolf asked, curious & shocked.

"I couldn't go back to Perseus, only going back to the CIA....no, I came back to the MI6, to Park." I asserted my choice, knowing that it was the best to do. "During these 4 months, I managed to get an part of my memories back, discovering things about me that I couldn't believe right." I was sounding an little bit happy by saying that, thinking positively. "When they captured me the 2th of June, I had to act as 'Bell' until I cracked after they almost tried to kill Park." I revealed.

"Damnit but what did they try to do ? Who was there ?" Song demanded.

"Adler was there but they must have transferred him away before you can all recover him the 10th of June." I remembered that moment when Stitch, Freya & Knight looked at that video tape. "I know that because....Stitch viewed an tape of your rescue attempts you did." I told them as they were surprised that I was able to know that.

"We should have maybe cleaned up the place more better." Woods muttered, scratching his cheeks but that wasn't his fault.

"I cracked but they were still hoping to have me back so....they tried to brainwash me again." I breathed by saying those words. "They got their hands on the CIA files about me, they tried to use it against me but somehow, it didn't work."

"Wait, you're actually saying that Perseus tried to brainwash you again ?" I nodded at Sims question, surprised to hear that.

"Perseus thought that they have won and they kept their guard low...Wraith was the one who were accompanying me the day before I escaped with Park." I assured them before my thought was on Freya. "Wraith...is in fact my old girlfriend if you all want to know." I preferred to reveal that detail that I hide to everyone and like I thought, eyes went wide again. "Yeah, I know, that's stupid from me to hide that."

"No, not at all." Song reassured me, reajusting herself on her chair.

"To tell the truth, we did escape with the help of someone on their side : Sonya Kuzmin." I told them, mentioning their name but at the second I told it, I felt like a regret, thinking that I should have keep silence about it. "They...uhm...I was wearing an backpack when I arrived here, where is it ?" I literally changed the subject, hoping that no one was going to ask me back about them.

"Got it, don't move." Woods replied, going up from his chair quickly to get the backpack that was on another desk before coming back with it in his hands. "Here you go." He handed me the bag, taking it in my hands.

"I was able to come back with some of my things but...." I stopped myself when I could feel my hands touching Lazar's diary. "Woods, Sims....it belonged to Lazar." I showed them the book, seeing the sad feeling on their eyes.

"Shit." They both mumbled in unison.

"I don't know how they got it but....it's really strange." I gave my opinion on the subject as I wanted to give them the book but both refused to take it, prompting me to put it back in the bag, thinking that I was the one to keep it. "And then....we were able to escape and...everyone knows what happened next." I exclaimed, keeping the bag on my lap, my hands over it.

"That's quite an big story to say." Sims quoted, passing his hands throught his face.

"And about all of you, what happened in 2 weeks ?" I asked them, now wanting to know their side of the story.

"Nothing too big except Adler's rescue 6 days ago." Woods answered, raising his shoulders to me. "On these 2 weeks, we were mostly trying to find out about where you could have been." He added.

"And where's Rivas ?" I questioned them as I thought that she was also here.

"She got wounded 2 days after we saved Adler and Hudson moved her out of the operation for the time being until she recovered and can come back." Wolf was the one to respond to me crossing his arms and looking towards an direction away. "As you & Park got saved, the CIA is going to think to pull us out of Verdansk but with Perseus moves, it's better to say cautious."

"And it's sure that you're going to need help." I proclaimed but Woods shook his head.

"Yeah but you & Park, you're going back to England." He said but it was sure that our state wasn't going to allow us to stay here.

"Yeah, that's logic." I stated.

"To say, we got calls almost everyday from an certain Zasha Smirnov of the MI6." Wolf scoffed, getting my full attention on him at hearing this name.

"Zasha called you ?" I whispered and everyone nodded.

"They were worried as hell and each day, they wanted to get updated about the situation." Sims completed, passing his hand behind his head. "At least now, they know that you were saved."

"They will be people to replace you & Park for the moment but as we think, you will be out for an long time until you can both come back." Woods explained and I nodded, knowing that we got no choices. "I think that it will be an cryptographer from the CIA called Liliya Petrov, is that right, Sims ?" He demanded and Sims nodded.

"You will be leaving tomorrow, we already make calls to the MI6 and for the moment, you & Park take an rest." Sims told me, getting up from his chair. "Like we said, it's making us very happy that you're still alive." He added with an smile before moving his chair back near Woods desk.

"You're right, I should go back with Park." I breathed, also going up from my chair as the others were putting their chairs back to where they took them. "Thank you all again for having saved me." I thanked them.

"We did what we had to do, Yirina." Woods smiled at me before going back to his desk.

"And now, don't be an loser !" I scoffed, seeing him taking back the cards to play their game and I was greeted by an middle finger from him, making me laugh before I start to move away from the room to get back at the medical room.

It was necessary to tell them everything and now, I was able to go back with Park, hoping that she was maybe awake but when I stepped inside the room, she was still sleeping on her bed, making me feel an bit sad to still see her like that. I returned back near her, now holding her left hand in my right one, keeping it with me gently until....I could witness her eyes slowly opening, sending more delight.

"Yiri...." That was her first word that she pronounced and I was already happy to have her back.

"My god, Park." I whispered, my voice filled with emotions and my eyes starting to cry for real, getting taken over by the emotions. "You're here." I added, an smile on my face and looking at our both hands.

"Yes, I'm here." She slowly grinned to me, her eyes rather focused on the ring that was on my right hand. "Is that your mother's ring ?" She asked and I nodded. "It's looking beautiful."

"Thanks." I snorted, quickly passing my hand through my face to clean up any tears on it. "Park, you don't know how much I'm freaking happy to see you back."

"Me too." She affirmed, sharing the same pain. "Not able to see you for days, it was painful." She continued, taking an breath to focus back. "Seeing you but on that stretcher, it brought me back bad memories."

"I know." I muttered, remembering the events 3 years ago. "I don't know how I managed to hold on and to survive the trigger memories." I said. "Both of us....I maybe going to sound like Adler but...we've really been through hell together, we've really fought together, we've...we've really bled together." I admitted, really sounding like Adler but all true in my words.

"But at the end, we succeeded to survive, now awaiting for the next part." She told me silently before she moved aside a little on her bed. "Please, come." She suggested, wanting to have me on her bed and I had to comply, installing myself on the space she did for me on that bed. "I have thought to have lost you for good when I saw you with that bullet wound." She started, moving her arms around me as I did the same with my left arm, posing it above her shoulders.

"I was already accepting my fate but I was convinced." I proclaimed, sounding sadly as I was feeling back that skin with my fingers...it was making me sad & happy at the same time. "I knew that I have to continue fighting for you and for me."

"And you know that we're here, that I'm here for that." She admitted, getting me closer of her as we both exchanged glares, seeing the sadness in our eyes. "Yirina, I love you, I will never abandon you."

"I love you too, you're the only thing that is keeping me alive with my friends." I affirmed proudly as I closed my eyes, finally feeling the freedom to be back with her again after these horrible days....

"They wanted to break us apart but we showed that we are unbreakable....forever !"

#cod bocw #cod cold war #cod black ops cold war #cod cw #call of duty cold war #cod #call of duty #cod bell #black ops cold war #yirina grigoriev #helen park #fem!bell

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sophi-s · 4 years ago

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Silent Vigil

By: sophi-s

Fandom: Darksiders video games

Words: 7,102

Characters: Abaddon, Astarte,

Warnings: Blood and gore, Graphic descriptions of violence, poisoning

Summary:

Life of a soldier in war is often dangerous. Every day may be the last. Even for the most skilled warriors. When a simple mission goes awry, Astarte realises how vulnerable her young and foolish heart truly made her.

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Another day of the never-ending war was slowly coming to an end in a cold, distant world, far away from Heaven's borders. In a snowstorm that came alongside dusk one could barely make out the well hidden shapes of tents in a makeshift camp the wandering squadron of angels had set up quite some time ago. The thick silence was only disturbed by wailing of the wind that brought to mind a sorrowful cry of a lone wolf. Heavy patches of snow were resting on top of the tents, hiding the amber glass underneath a thick white blanket.

Out of one of the smaller ones, a hooded figure emerges, wrapped up in a heavy winter coat with fur sewn into the edges. Their wings were folded back and tucked underneath the warm fabric to shield them from the ceaseless barrage of cold snowflakes and the ungodly cold. Wading knee-deep in snow, they swiftly cross the entirety of the camp like a spectre and step into the largest tent in the middle of it. Once inside, the hood is pulled back to reveal a head of dense platinum blonde hair falling around a smooth face of a female with brilliant white eyes flashing with determination of a warrior she is. Even when hidden from the elements and chilling winds, her breath was turning into white puffs slowly dissipating once they emerged from her parted lips.

Astarte brushes off the snow that still somehow managed to accumulate on her shoulders during her short walk and looks at another angel standing hunched above a map on a tabletop. But even bent over and not wearing his battle armor, he was of quite imposing height and stature. She smiles to herself sadly when he doesn't even notice her arrival and keeps grumbling something under his breath, still focused on the map. Unsurprisingly, he was still busying himself with strategizing. Astarte didn't know how long he'd been here without rest but she could bet her right hand he hadn't left ever since he dismissed her and the rest of his soldiers a couple of hours before. Part of her was actually glad that he is the one in charge and not she. Being a leader is a difficult and often tiresome task. Still, it doesn't mean she shouldn't support her general in his efforts. She's his lieutenant after all. That's her duty. And even if it wasn't, she would do so nonetheless as even her heart demanded her to be with him when he needs her. And in this moment he looked like he could use assistance.

"My Lord."

She greeted him, earning a glance of his piercing eyes, as cold as steel and as blue as the clear winter sky - hidden above their heads by thick, grey clouds - from underneath a crisp white fringe falling over his face. But the moment he realised it was her, the chill in his gaze faded and made place for warmth as a weary smile pulled at his mouth.

"No one is here, Astarte. There's no need for formality."

He replied and let his eyes linger on her for a couple more seconds before lowering them to the map between his hands resting on the table. Coming around it, Astarte stood beside him and looked at the plans under his careful scrutiny. They hadn't changed much from when she'd seen them last as he asked her to show what she'd learned and explain them to others. And this in itself was mildly concerning.

"Is there some kind of a problem, Abaddon?"

The archangel in question sighed and scratched the back of his neck, not taking his eyes off the map. After about a century under his command, Astarte knew Abaddon well enough to recognise apprehension in his mannerisms. He doesn't do that very often but when he does, usually a good reason exists. Leaning against the table as well, Astarte scans the entirety of the map to try and find the thing that made her commander and possibly future partner so uneasy. Unsuccessfully. There didn't seem to be a thing that should cause him distress. It was common knowledge in the White City that Abaddon was rather… paranoid to put it lightly. And in moments like this, it shows. Astarte didn't mind that but maybe now he's nervous just for the heck of it again.

"Not at all. And that's what doesn't seem right."

Astarte raised her eyebrow and looked up at him in confusion as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully before pointing at the map marked with small scribbled out notes in certain places with his whole hand.

"Look at it. There's nothing wrong with it! We've been after this artifact for months now and finally we - by a pure coincidence - find out about a group of demons which stumbled upon its location and is about to attempt retrieval? It's going way too smoothly for my taste. It can't be this easy.."

With a hum of affirmation, Astarte glanced down at the plan of the ruins, where the powerful demonic blade was supposedly hidden, again. The structure sat below the level of the terrain, two entrances and no other way out. A perfect place to ambush someone going in or out. About five days ago, a scouting party managed to capture a demon which tried to save its skin by revealing the location of the enchanted sword and the plan of its brethren who wished to get to it before Heaven does. The demon still perished but the information stayed. And at first it couldn't make Abaddon happier. Taking her and a group of thirty angels, the General of Heaven set out to intercept the demons and take over the artifact to make sure they don't use it against the White City. Now however, he seemed rather… frustrated, judging by the way he was drumming his fingers against the table. By now, they liquidated about half a dozen scouts and each provided at least some scraps of information they could put together to make a more or less clear image of their future task. For once, Astarte began to understand his concerns. There must be a catch. The question is "where?".

"You suspect some kind of a trick but if the artifact is really there, it's unacceptable to just leave it…"

"Exactly!"

Abaddon answered with a note of annoyance in his voice, still staring at the plan as though it had slighted him somehow. In a warrior's life nothing is ever easy. Astarte understood his doubts. Sometimes no words were needed to be spoken between them to reach this understanding. And that's why they were such a good team. All this really was going way too easily and it wasn't a surprise that he was so tense that the air around him seemed to turn heavy. She frowned, unhappy that this was one of those rare moments when she really wanted to help Abaddon but didn't know how. She despised this feeling. Unsure what else she could do, Astarte laid her hand on top of his, to at least try and offer him some semblance of peace of mind he needed.

"Standing here and glaring at the map won't make any difference. Try to rest."

With his eyebrows still furrowed in a worried frown, Abaddon shifted his hand under hers and curled his fingers around it.

"I am not sure if I can."

He murmured with resignation, failing to meet her eye. Now Astarte had no doubts as to how tired he really was. Abaddon rarely ever sounds like that. But true enough, if this unease stays with him, he might not be able to rest properly. That was just him. Utterly devoted to Heaven's cause, almost always putting duty on the first place. But right behind it, and often shifting places with it, was her. All it takes is the right word or the right touch. Letting go of his hand, Astarte rested her palm on his right cheek and leaned in to lightly brush her lips against his temple. His scowl immediately softened, his bushy eyebrows wandered slightly up his tattooed forehead and a corner of his mouth quirked upwards in a smile. Works almost every time..

Snapping his attention away from the blasted map, the archangel turned to Astarte with a sigh. He does that way too often when he feels uncertain. Still, this heaviness seemed to leave the atmosphere, a sign that she managed to fulfill the purpose she came here with, when she reached out to him and ghosted her fingertips against his cheek, simultaneously making him lean into her palm fondly. Moments later, Abaddon took her hand, lifted it to his mouth and pressed his warm lips to her knuckles red from the cold surrounding them. Looking at her with half-lidded, cerulean eyes, he met her gaze with that lively twinkle to them she knew so well from every time they had a moment together. She recognised that look. In spite of herself, Astarte smiled. Usually, she didn't really mind the open signs of affection when they were alone but they were in the middle of a frozen desert and on a very important mission.

"Abaddon, this really isn't the right time."

Astarte murmured as she put a hand on his mouth to stop him from proceeding when he began to inch closer to her, earning a slightly annoyed scowl from her Commander. She is his second-in-command and so her duty is to make sure he doesn't forget himself. But the thing is, Abaddon is one of the most stubborn creatures she'd known in all of Creation. The lengths he would go to get what he wants…

"May I remind you that you started it?"

He teased with a smirk clearly audible in the tone of his voice, making Astarte roll her eyes. She did, true, but they should stay focused on their task. There will be time for this once they accomplish what they came to this frozen hellhole for in the first place. Though, on the other hand… Ah, what's the point anyway? Astarte decided she will let him have this one if it helps him find peace tonight. I will have to relearn to stand up to him again… She thought as she lowered her hand right into his waiting palm.

The following kiss didn't surprise Astarte but still made her delightfully lightheaded. As it always does. Every next contact wasn't as exciting as the first one but still was sending the world around her spinning. Their romance was a badly kept secret, almost everyone in the White City knows by now, but it didn't feel any less thrilling than if they were actually secretly doing something forbidden. It wasn't uncommon for a general to be in relationship with his or her lieutenant.

"You too need your rest, Astarte. I'll need you to stay sharp tomorrow."

He breathed once he gave her her lips back far too soon and sadly Astarte knew he was right. Even if no deceit awaits them in those ruins, they all have to be on high alert. There's no joking around with demons. One of the first lessons Abaddon had taught her, back when she was still an overconfident and daring private who thought she could best anyone, him included.

"Very well. Goodnight to you, Abaddon."

"And to you, my love."

He offered as she pulled her hood up and walked out into the snowstorm to find a way back to her own tent, even though the cold made a small and quiet thought that "it would be much warmer if they stayed together and he surely wouldn't mind it" crawl its way into her head. There's no time for distractions. A difficult task awaits them tomorrow and they have to stay vigilant no matter what. The time will come after they succeed. Failure is out of question.

The Hellguard marched out of the camp before the first morning light. Time is of the essence and so they decided to waste none of it. Using the cover of the winter forest and the falling snowflakes, the angels quickly moved on foot not to draw the attention of demons which may be hiding somewhere around. Besides, flying was nigh impossible with the harsh, arctic wind tugging at them from every direction. Abaddon ordered to split the group to three, leaving one under the lead of Astarte, while he took the other two along.

It took an hour or so to arrive at the designated place. Indeed, the old ruins of a demonic outpost were half-concealed by nearby hills, the wilderness and by any plant life that has long crept inside. Built in a low spot, the structure was dark and ominous, radiating with sinister aura that could give creeps to even the bravest warriors. A dark presence lingered in the air, making this place seem even more grim and threatening. Astarte sneered slightly, a little at the freezing air seeping through her clothes and armor into her very bones, and a little at the discouraging atmosphere of this wretched place. The sooner they get this done with, the better.

Angels spread out and took their places to simultaneously have a good view of the ruins and good hiding spots from which one group could see the other two. With a silent sigh, Astarte frowned down at the ruins below her, constantly on alert for any movement. One minute passed. Two.. Five. Twenty. Nothing. Not a single soul. If the demons are truly inside then they are taking their sweet time. Just grand... She thought, already losing feeling in her toes and fingers. Wind kept wailing, the only sound that could be heard in this God-forsaken place.

Glancing about, Astarte furrowed her eyebrows. Something didn't feel right. There were no tracks of demonic clawed feet in over three mile radius, though it could be easily explained by demons using the Fallen which are capable of flight. But it didn't make her feel easier. No sounds, no signs of life. No wonder, what sane creature aside from a frost dragon would willingly make its home in this frozen landscape? The lack of any activity whatsoever also wasn't that strange when she thought about it. The wretched cowards can be hiding inside and waiting for the moody weather to calm down.

Still, a strange, unpleasant feeling was starting to rise in Astarte's gut. As though someone was… watching her. Just to double check, she scanned her surroundings in search of the source of this sensation. Nothing. Maybe paranoia is contagious? She chuckled inwardly. Her eyes fell onto Abaddon on the other side of the outpost, barely visible over the snow alongside his group. He wasn't looking at her, fully focused on his task. Of course. Why would he look at her now? This was something she shouldn't do either. Not when she should be on the lookout for their quarry.

However, just when Astarte was about to look back down, something in the distance caught her eye. For a brief second, she was absolutely certain she'd seen something that looked a lot like a tail swinging from a tree a couple of feet behind the other squad. A century or so ago, she would've ignored it, dismissed as her imagination. But it seems that paranoia really is contagious. And Abaddon taught her better than that. Astarte squinted at the object of her interest to try and make out more details. And her heart dropped to her heels.

Attached to what turned out to have been an actual tail, was a body of a slender demon coated in white fur, also dressed in white. To blend into the surroundings. Her experience told her. To her concern, once she noticed the first one, she suddenly started to spot more of them. All around. Stalking towards the unsuspecting angels focused on watching the ruins and something was telling her that the same was happening behind her own back. And that's when she felt a spike of dread jolt down her throat. The demon she initially spotted in the tree was holding something that looked a bit like a crossbow. And aiming at Abaddon's head from behind.

A realisation hit her that instead of the attackers, the Hellguard quickly turned into the attacked. Abaddon was right. This was trap! No clue how, but he knew. He has no idea, he won't notice the demon in time! She had to warn him somehow! To Hell with cover. Without a second thought, Astarte sprung up to her feet from where she was lying on her stomach half buried under the snow, sending a cloud of whiteness flying as she flared her rune-inscribed wings and yelled as loudly as her throat allowed her to before her vocal cords gave up.

"AMBUSH!!! "

In this very moment something heavy impacted with her back with a vicious roar, almost sending her toppling over the ledge. Were it not for her strength and the fact that she successfully avoided being surprised, Astarte stood her ground supporting herself with her spear to spare herself a painful fall just as her companions jumped out of their hiding spots to answer the demons with a counterattack. One of the younger angels under her command struck and killed the demon that pounced at her, one of the camouflaged white fiends she saw as she turned around, as bolts began to whizz through the air and screams of shocked angels intertwined with frustrated screeches of the Hellspawn.

Thanks to her quick reaction, the Hellguard swiftly entered defensive formations to face the ambushers. With a battle cry upon her lips, Astarte impaled one demon while her comrades were taking down others, trying to dodge or deflect the bolts. Why are they using crossbows? She wondered in spite of herself. Unfortunately, it wasn't the best time to ponder over their questionable choice of weapons. The dying demon on the end of her spear in its last act pulled itself further down the blade and almost onto the hilt, and desperately swung with its talons, tearing through her left arm before she could push it off.

With a pained sneer, Astarte tossed the now dead demon back at its brethren as she ordered her group to shift to offensive. The blood began to stain the spotless white snow in deep scarlet as more demons and, unfortunately, angels fell. But… something was unusual here. A second passed, two, three… and Abaddon was nowhere to be seen. Astarte doesn't get wounded often but when she does, it takes barely a beat for her commander to pretty much materialize out of thin air somewhere nearby to protect her, even if it is but a minor injury like this one. This time something was different. He most likely has problems of his own. She figured and led the charge against the fiendish warriors.

Oddly enough, the moment their ambush didn't work out, demons started to retreat as there was nothing more for them to achieve aside from losing more of their stealthy, lightly armored soldiers. And so, they fled just as quietly as they appeared, vanishing between the trees and in the snow.

Once the battle had ended, Astarte looked over the remaining angels. Previously she had ten. Now only five of them were unharmed while two more carried more or less serious wounds from blades and claws, often having crossbow bolts stuck in their armor. The other three… Astarte turned her gaze down and removed her helmet as her uninjured brethren did the same to pay respect to the fallen. She was well used to death but still. They were her brothers at arms. Angels she trusted and respected. After a moment, Astarte placed her headpiece back where it belonged and gripping her bleeding arm, she gave orders to her squad.

"Regroup. We need to evaluate the losses."

Taking a short flight, Astarte and the soldiers under her temporary command rejoined others. The Hellguard were still startled and disoriented, looking about in search of more attackers. Fortunately, to no avail. Astarte too was looking for something. Or rather someone when she couldn't see him anywhere at first. But barely seconds later she saw him. Sitting on the ground against a rock with two unnerved soldiers beside him, breathing heavily and unevenly, ashen face… He was keeping his hand over his chest. And sticking out from between his thumb and forefinger was.. Her eyes widened with fear…

A crossbow bolt.

Everything around Astarte halted as claws of horror, even colder than the snow and ice around her, got a hold of her heart which started to quiver in her chest. The demon still did manage to get Abaddon. Her warning came too late. And the bolt seemed to have been constructed in a way that made it very durable. The sharp projectile punched through Abaddon's breastplate without greater problems and now was stuck in his body.

"Abaddon!"

When she could move, she immediately rushed over to him, still unable to believe what had happened, and oblivious to her own injury fell to her knees beside him. Despite the pain that was apparently visible in his grimace, Abaddon turned his blue eyes at her with a frantic gleam in them.

"It… was a trap. I- I knew it! Astarte…"

He was interrupted by a harsh cough which caused blood to trickle out of the corner of his mouth. Talking clearly wasn't coming easily to him. Why would it, when he had a sharp bolt buried into his chest? Any incoming words were halted by Astarte putting her hand over his bloodied lips.

"Save your breath, my Lord."

She said, trying to keep her head cool despite the mounting panic in her throat, and took her eyes off his face to examine the wound. With his armor still on it was hard to determine the full extent of the damage but with how the bolt was positioned, Astarte could only imagine it may have punctured his left lung or damaged some vital blood vessels and she couldn't even extract it without risking causing further damage. Even as small as the wound was, it was dangerously near his heart that was surely pounding in his chest like crazy. The fact that there was barely any blood aside from that spilling steadily past his lips was hardly comforting. It could mean there's a much more severe internal bleeding. Hopefully not. Whether he likes it or not - which he most likely doesn't with how stubborn he is - Abaddon needed the help of a healer and needed it immediately.

"We have to move. There might be more of them nearby."

The Hellguard listened to Astarte without a moment of hesitation. She was the second in line to the position of a leader and Abaddon didn't seem like he was going to give orders any time soon. Astarte carefully pulled him up to his feet and hauled his arm over her own shoulders while other angels were gathering up those severely wounded and deceased in preparation to leave. As she was expecting, Abaddon grumbled in protest.

"I… can walk…"

"It doesn't mean you should."

With that, Astarte cut him off and it looked like he was not in the mood to argue with her. Neither did he have strength for it. The Hellguard moved out and left the cursed ruins behind. There was no doubt in Astarte's mind that there was no artifact here. This was just a bluff. A successful one unfortunately..

Even though there was hardly an hour of steady march between the ruins and their camp, for Astarte it felt like an eternity. With each laboured breath next to her ear and the weight of the injured archangel leaning against her shoulder slowly increasing, her agitation grew. But true enough, Abaddon did mostly walk on his own. At first. Not even fifteen minutes later, he was starting to get more sluggish and a faint tint of unhealthy green shaded his otherwise colorless face that should be tanned in warm tones. Still, he kept going. Until about half an hour later he stumbled, even though he was still supported by Astarte.

"I don't… I can't feel… my wings…"

He mumbled more to himself than anyone else, successfully getting his lieutenant's attention. True to his word, his wings were limply dragging behind him, motionless. And once she noticed that the light in his eyes had already faded and he's moments from slipping into unconsciousness, the panic returned. Her heart was hammering against her ribcage in despair. He was dying. She cannot lose him. Not him. Everyone but him.

"No… no, Abaddon! Don't fall asleep!"

She called desperately, making all of the angels to look back at them both with non hidden fright. Two Storm Heralds even rushed over to help as she held her commander who was very quickly losing his grip on life. With how heavy he was, Astarte had no other choice than to lower him to the ground. And she could feel how unnaturally warm under her hands his skin was. The camp is so close… He can't give up now! He can't… Just a little longer..

Don't close your eyes…

But despite her silent plea, her efforts to keep his head up and pull him back up… he did. His eyelids slipped closed, he ferociously fought to keep them opened but in vain. Even though Astarte was beginning to feel the shaking of her hands, she called to others.

"Help me get him up! We need to act quickly!"

The rest of the path to the campsite was a haze. Astarte remembered it like through a mist that clouded her senses and she wasn't even sure how and when she found herself in her own tent with Maral, an angel who was like a little sister to her, tending to the claw marks on her shoulder. Luckily, Maral herself wasn't injured in any way and she was the one to inform Astarte of the whole situation. Eight dead and ten injured in total. No artifact in sight. Not a very cheering perspective.. However, Astarte was only half paying attention to what Maral was saying. Her thoughts were elsewhere. In Abaddon's personal tent where he was brought to be taken care of about an hour ago. She was tapping her foot impatiently as Maral was getting her arm disinfected and wrapped up in bandages since there were only three healers in camp and two of them were injured too while the third one tended to the General.

"There. It should be mostly-... Hey! Where are you going?"

Astarte didn't really hear the call. After Maral was done with her wounds, she immediately stood up and walked out, heading to her General's tent, not caring about the cold anymore. Only one thought accompanied her on the way to her destination. Please, be alive... And please, stay that way... In the entrance she bumped into the aforementioned healer.

"Suriel. How is he?"

Judging by the grim expression Suriel bore, Astarte could tell she wasn't going to like what he was about to say. Of all angels, Astarte is rarely frightened. But this was one of those rare moments and she was glad she had her armor removed, because without a doubt it would clatter loudly, considering how much she was shaking. Don't tell me it's what I think it is.. She begged. Not a single part of her being was prepared to accept the fact that her beloved could be…

"He lives."

Not even the mightiest creature in the Universe could've stopped the loud exhale of relief that left Astarte the moment the news was revealed to her. However, it turned out she was too quick to rejoice.

"But he isn't well. The bolt.. although it did get to his lung that's not the main concern."

True enough, breathing isn't vital for angels to survive, though such an injury is rather inconvenient and if not healed properly can cause trouble in the future. But hearing that the punctured lung isn't the main concern immediately sent Astarte's heart back into frenzy before it could fully calm its pace.

"It was poisoned."

"Poisoned..?"

She echoed, already feeling increasingly dizzy from all this. Blessed Creator, please, let this chaos finally end... Of course the demons would poison their weapons! The fact why they were using crossbows became much clearer now. They lured the Hellguard out to try and take down its leaders. Bastards. Honestly, Astarte could consider herself lucky that she wasn't hit with one of the poisoned projectiles because without a shadow of a doubt she was one of the main targets as well.

"One of the killed demons had a vial of antidote in a knapsack but… the venom spread around his system very quickly. It will help. But that's all I could do. Lord Abaddon will have to battle the poison on his own until someone more experienced arrives."

It wasn't surprising that someone has already gone to the White City to call for help and deliver a report from the unsuccessful operation. Astarte could only hope either Abaddon will pull through or someone will get here to help him on time.

"Can I… see him?"

Suriel nodded. Astarte waited no longer and hesitantly peered inside of the tent. The sight that greeted her made her feel like her heart fell to pieces. No one had to say it out loud for her to realise that she wasn't ready for what awaited her. On a cot under coverlets in the far end of the tent, was him. Abaddon. Her beloved.. And he looked like a corpse. Still, unmoving, pallid skin… his eyelids and lips were in a blueish-purple hue. A blood-soaked bandage was wrapped around his chest and a wet piece of folded cloth rested on his forehead. Droplets of sweat were rolling down his face, shining in the gloom like crystals, as he heaved in shallow breaths.

Biting down on her lower lip, Astarte walked up to the cot and sat down on a stool beside it. Beside her love and light. The light that was now struggling to keep burning, fighting the deadly poison coursing through his veins. Up this close, she could plainly see how unwell he really was.

Abaddon was always the strongest of the heavenly warriors. Unbreakable. Someone Astarte looked up to ever since he quite literally took her under his wing when Malahidael couldn't deal with her overconfidence and lack of respect. Those were ones of her most cherished memories.. And now? It seemed all it would take was so much as sneezing in his direction to send his soul plummeting into the Well. Seeing him like this.. weak, broken and vulnerable… it made Astarte feel small and insignificant.

A choked huff that slipped past Abaddon's chapped lips as his whole body shivered violently, did very little to calm Astarte down. Her heart sank, corners of her mouth sagged sadly, when his eyelids twitched and his upper lip peeled back to reveal his teeth. Hesitantly, she reached out to him and ran her fingers through his white hair as he kept thrashing about in his feverish sleep and muttering.

"To- to me, Hellguard... As- Astarte… where are you..?"

"I'm here. And I'm not going anywhere…"

She whispered and leaned down to place a kiss to his trembling lips. Not going anywhere. Gently brushing her fingers against his cheek, hot like fire, she kept talking to him softly until his shivers eased and he fell into a much deeper and calmer sleep. She wasn't going to leave him. Not now. Not when he needs her the most. Not when she needs him..

For the next three days or so there was no change whatsoever. Abaddon kept drifting in and out of consciousness, delirious with scorching fever - sometimes weakly calling Astarte's name - and barely aware of anything happening around him. And he wasn't getting better. Astarte stayed at his side, silent and hopeful. His lieutenant hadn't moved from her place even if either Maral or someone else came over and proposed to change her in her shift so that Astarte may rest, to which the answer was "I'm not going to be able to sleep anyway.". She was helping with changing bandages and making sure the cloth on his forehead remains cool. The latter part was rather frustrating as the water in the basin next to the cot kept freezing over and with her nerves already in shreds Astarte barely held back from angrily lobbing it across the tent.

All the time she spent at Abaddon's side she was begging him to wake up, open his eyes and look at her. And every time he was shifting from uneasy delirium to numb unconsciousness she died a little bit inside out of fear that this time his heart may have given up.

"This has to be a nightmare…"

She once muttered to herself clutching Abaddon's motionless hand which felt like heated in a fire, hoping in vain that his grip will tighten any second now.

"And this is my fault.."

No words were able to put her mind at ease. The blame was rightfully on her, even though no one told her outright "It's because of you. You've failed him." She just convinced herself that it's the truth. Her duty was to protect Abaddon when he wasn't able to do so on his own. And despite Suriel, Maral and many others saying that it's a good thing she reacted so quickly, because were it not for her warning it could've ended much worse, the overwhelming feeling of guilt still remained.

And after those three days of emotional torment none other than the archangel Raphael arrived at the camp, carrying a message from the Council of Angels, ordering those injured who can be safely moved to return to the City. Without any exceptions. And that meant Astarte as well. But her Commander was to stay at the camp until he's cleansed of the vile venom threatening his life since there was a risk he would not survive this journey.

Astarte knew that she's leaving Abaddon in good hands. If anyone could help him, it would be the head healer of the White City. Still, she felt guilty for being forced to abandon him. Alongside a group of wounded angels, she left for her home with a heavy heart. All she could do was wait, harboring a feeling she found absolutely horrible. Helplessness. Wanting to act, feeling the need to, but being incapable of doing so. She should be with him, not hiding behind the White Gates! This was her duty. She swore to stand beside him no matter what. And now, the Council of Angels made her break this vow.

The next few days Astarte spent living in a lucid dream. A nightmare to be more accurate. Praying for Abaddon to pull through. She found herself often staring into the void, thinking. She missed his voice, his reassuring presence. His touch… Where is he? Is he alright? He has to be… Doesn't he? Of course he does! He's been through much worse more than once already. One bolt, even coated in noxious substance can't be enough to put him down. Unless… This was the thought that kept torturing Astarte. This "unless". After all, she'd seen how bad it was. How even with the antitoxin her Commander seemed to continue to slip away. Whatever the demons used, it must've been a truly horrendous poison..

When a week of solitude has gone by, reality started to sink in. It was taking too long already. Abaddon should've been healed by now. His absence could only mean… No! Raphael wouldn't fail. It's impossible! He can't be dead. Can he…? And even if so, the word about the demise of Abaddon of all people should have already been spread around the White City. But instead.. nothing. No news. Silence. Eventually, in this uncertainty and lack of any signs from anyone who remained at the camp, Astarte slowly started to believe, even though her heart screamed in denial. Sitting on the side of her bed in her home, she stared at her own boots, seconds ticked by, each lasting way longer than it should. What if he is gone? What is she going to do?

The Council will name her the next leader of the Hellguard without a doubt. All of Abaddon's responsibilities will be passed down to her. Maybe she will be able to forget if she keeps herself busy? She should've known that falling in love was a bad idea. Both she and Abaddon are warriors. Even with their unmatched skill, it was only a matter of time before one of them fell. But what could she do about it? He taught her so much, gave her all his knowledge and even offered his own heart that remained cold and stern for anyone but her. This last gift she could not reject as her own soul yearned to be close to him after everything he'd done for her. She couldn't win with it. Even though she tried her best once. Before she knew what he felt. Before… everything. She missed those times when Abaddon was no one else to her than her Commander perfectly capable of kicking her butt in any sparring to make sure she stays in line...

A quiet sound of opening doors caught her attention and made her head snap up. It was so sudden and unexpected that she felt a jolt of fear in her stomach. But with this fear came a shy ray of hope. Only one angel in the entire City walked into her house without knocking and only because she said he doesn't have to because he'd always be welcome. A rustle of feathers as a pair of wings beat once, a barely audible thud right behind the door to her bedroom. The doorknob moved. Slowly turned around and soon in the crack of the door, a pair of familiar blue lights appeared. Her heart hastened and her eyes grew wide like saucers. Could it… be true? Her hopes faded soon enough when she realised that it was probably just Azrael coming again to try and console her and her imagination is merely playing tricks on her. But the voice she heard seconds later made her heart skip a beat.

"Astarte?"

Still rather pale and swaying lightly on his legs, his eyes dull and devoid of their shine, Abaddon stepped into her room with relief painted across his face once he saw her before him. Words couldn't describe what was happening in her head at this moment. On the one hand she was absolutely ecstatic. He's alive. He hasn't left her despite the gravity of his recent condition. But on the other hand, she felt angry. Where was he all this time? Why was he keeping her in the dark? Not even a word when she was here already mourning and thinking how she should tackle becoming a leader all of the sudden. Jumping up to her feet, Astarte rushed over to him, closing the distance in one beat of her wings, just as he opened his arms in a welcoming gesture. Only to retract in shock once her palm loudly met his face, leaving a stinging sensation in its wake. However, Abaddon didn't have time to react in any way aside from looking at Astarte with disbelief before she threw her arms around his neck and tugged him down into a kiss.

"You are giving mixed signals."

He chuckled, oblivious to the red handprint forming on his cheek once Astarte pulled away to glare daggers at him.

"I thought I lost you! Again! Don't ever do that to me!"

She yelled at him, respect towards superiors be damned. In all of her life she'd never been so scared. She remembered one time when Abaddon did get severely wounded but he quickly got out of this. Now it was three times as bad. Back then she could've at least stayed with him. Astarte didn't feel sorry for that slap to the face, the bastard had it coming for a long time now. And it seemed that he was well aware he deserved that one.

"Forgive me. I'll do my best never to let something like that happen again. Is there a way to make up for it?"

Angels don't cry. It's not like they aren't fully equipped to do so, they just… don't. Especially warriors. It doesn't suit a warrior to cry. If they do however, for good reasons. And Astarte felt she was on the verge of snapping, her vision turned misty as tears were forcing its way into her eyes. But no. She refused to fall apart, especially in front of her Commander. Looking up at him and fighting the tremble in her voice, she answered so quietly it might seem she didn't really meant to say that out loud. But he did hear it.

"Stay with me… And don't let go.."

His hands came up to her cheeks and he looked her deep in the eye with a soft smile on his face. The first tear had fallen once he pressed his forehead against hers and sighed contentedly before fully closing the distance and laying his lips on hers.

"Here, tonight.. your wish is my command."

He replied and encased her in a comforting embrace, holding her head against his chest as though to show her he's still here. And the steady heartbeat below her ear made her cry out in relief. If she's dreaming, then she doesn't want to ever wake up again. No.. this heartbeat felt far too real.

Perhaps it would've been seen as improper, but she had to make sure. Astarte reached out with her shaking hand to him and Abaddon didn't stop her as she peeled back the collar of his tunic to expose the bandage still concealing the wound he suffered from recently. Her hand carefully rested over it. He felt real. It was no dream. The nightmare has come to an end. He's here. Safe.. For this short moment, they both are.

For once in the ceaseless conflict between Heaven and Hell, Astarte could feel at peace and so could he. Just to seek reassurance, she placed the pads of her fingers on his throat to feel his pulse. To feel that he's truly with her, alive, holding her close, folding his wings around her.. and that this night he isn't going anywhere.

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Idk, I just wanted to draw something and this happened in turn 😆

Also, I can't draw Astarte's face to save my life 😂

It's weird, I know, but I wanted to do something for Valentines. Back into the cringe abyss I go.

#darksiders #darksiders genesis #fan art #darksiders abaddon #darksiders astarte #abaddon #astarte #demons #my art #fan fiction #my fic #my writing #I wrote it three times 😂#yikes #cringe

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bearpillowmonster · 4 years ago

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Horizon Zero Dawn Review

The game that critics have been raving about for years and I just haven't played. I heard a lot of people say "this needs a movie" but they say that about any game that dares to be a little bit cinematic because I personally disagree.

That first part is rough, the story seems so in your face, predictable and bland but I think the problem is that it didn't know how to put in its exposition. I think it naturally builds up as it goes on, getting bigger and broader, it's just those first experiences that can be a slog because you're pretty much learning what style you're going to play in.

I got more or less everything I expected, crafting, a skill tree, various weapons. What I didn't expect though are dialogue options. You can choose normally up to four paths, an intelligent one, a compassionate one, and a straightforward one. You don't have to worry about the stress of trying to reach a specific ending because there's really only one, the only thing that affects it is the amount of people that are in it. So does that make the choices irrelevant? Yes and no because there are different dialogue options and like I said, which means that you can get certain characters to like you more given the option you choose but not in the same way that relationship points work and I definitely felt the draw to do that whenever I came across my first side-quest.

Side-quests are interesting, I love tracking things in games, though it's rare that you actually get the chance to do it and here you have a good amount of opportunities. Is that all though? Far from it. I actually found myself searching for side-quests because the first two were so satisfying. It really only began to show its hand a bit more after those quests. As I mentioned, there are a lot more RPG elements than I first imagined but it starts to send you on scavenger hunts, especially that Dreamwillow one, that one I actually laughed out loud at every time I was turned away. It also starts to gatekeep to where it recommends that you be a certain level which is...odd? I mean at face value it looks like you could rock basically any combat situation that isn't context sensitive. Leveling up gives you abilities but they're more like Deus Ex on that front, where it's just for preference and upgrading, not necessarily strength. The only thing you improve on offense wise basically boils down to having the right materials or units to buy weapons then a matter of finding modifications. Other than that, leveling up seems to just increase your health. It really just depends on the quest too because I'll play one above my level and be fine then play another that's actually under my level and feel stuck.

Now I only played it on normal mode so something like "Ultra Hard" is bound to be more demanding but as far as actual side quest content, I feel like they have potential but just need tweaked, give me more stuff for major characters that affects their standing with me. Rather than having each quest be contained in its own story, have it affect you later in the game, let your actions be shown, give it rewards and consequences. There are some really great side-quests but there are also some crappy ones, it doesn't pass that threshold that most RPGs fall under or anything. However, I did find myself doing side-quests at my own free will and the ones that I didn't like or couldn't do at the time, I just skipped and focused on something else, I felt a lot more freedom with this game, like I didn't feel forced to grind or do a certain number of side-quests or really do anything. It encourages you to explore and play the way you want to play and I respect the heck out of that. Maybe it's different for other players though.

Perhaps my favorite actual side thing was the Cauldrons for those who actually played this, you'll know why. For those who didn't, just know that it's cool and let it be a surprise for when you go to one. You might expect these big set-pieces and bosses like Uncharted or GoW, but it's not really like that. I genuinely think that this is more video-gamey than it lets on which certainly takes up its runtime. One addition to side-quests that I would like to see is one where you don't know it's happening. For example, in this game, you'll come across random hunters who are attacking or being attacked by machines but rather than just going on about your day and them going on about their's, I want to fight off the machine and the person say "You saved my life, my name's Jara, I live in the town nearby and want to repay you." so you go there and there's trouble so it starts up a side-quest. Now don't get me wrong, there are PLENTY of instances of people getting attacked actually being a mission but most of the time someone in town will just tell you "I haven't seen this person in a while, can you go check on them for me?" It's the art of subtlety and also just doing a good deed and getting rewarded for it. It's a conscious choice and split decision rather than just another checkmark on your list to complete.

Now I won't bother listing the characters and rating them but there's a certain aspect that has me really enthused So, Aloy is an outcast and a lot of these side missions and scenarios reflect her, you'll see the way she can relate with other characters, making it almost poetic in a subliminal kind of way. Then they add this tribal and futuristic setting to it where Aloy acts as the medium, there are parts of the game where she questions the tribe because they cut themselves off from technology and just don't know any better and we as a viewer know that but having the main character view things in 'our' lens is pretty genius. To top that off, they give her enough personality to be her own character while giving us enough power to influence her so that we ourselves can REFLECT WITH HER. It's not her character that I'm impressed with, it's the layout of the story.

So, how is the main story? It's kind of like the Flood scenario in Halo if I'm being honest. I'm not going to spoil anything but it's passable, like I said, it's not like an Uncharted and it's not like a movie. The visuals just look good at times (I took all the pictures in this review myself and so much more!). I'd call it a futuristic/tribal mix between Shadow of the Tomb Raider and Skyrim but I see elements of a lot of things. (Also since it's post apoctalypic, you find items that we see in modern day, like how they call keys, "chimes"! They think they're windchimes because there are no more cars! I love that!)

It actually does a pretty good job at being an open world considering that there are tons of things to do on your routes as well as collect but it's not so much so that it seems unfeasible, as I said, I found myself doing a good chunk of the side stuff just because it was fun to do and I'm not even close to a completionist for any game. If you mess up, healing plants will still be there. As long as you save, enemy parts will still be there. A place can be cleared out and conquered so that enemies don't come back. The actual towns are peaceful so you can't get mangled by any bots outside of scripted instances.

The graphics are pretty good but I can see some error here and there, nothing necessarily game breaking but the animations and AI are definitely janky at times. It's pretty obvious from the get-go but I'll do my best to specify and give constructive criticism on what I found wrong with certain aspects of the game. Rost is slow, like slower than walking speed but that's not to speak for all NPCs, some run, some you don't need to follow, it was really just him. I've had NPCs who fight but miss every single time on simple enemies (that might not be a bug, that might just be a funny bit that someone decided to add in). Sabretooths have jumped through walls (granted the walls were kinda broken but I'm not sure if those big boys can fit when they can barely find the entrance) I found myself jumping to a ledge or on a rope but not land it and just drop (it really boils down to loosening the hit box for that). Which to add on to that, I would like more places to climb and jump to in general (other than stupid mountains). I felt like there wasn't really enough that I could climb and the places that I could, could've been a bit more obvious that I could, maybe even make it viewable with your focus if you don't want it to be visually outstanding. There's a day and night cycle and while I like that, I found some of the contrast to be annoying because I could be staring a ladder right in the face and not even know it sometimes because it would be so dark. I'm not going to complain too much about it because I didn't turn my brightness up, I just left it at default and I would assume the PS5 version fixes some of those little things.

Now, this one is kind of a gray area: Hiking up mountains. Skyrim, Fallout, and Death Stranding went too far and gave little to no barriers. They had you looking for sweet spots that weren't there in order to cheese your way through an area either on or off a beaten path. But I would compare this to something like GTA where it's not as bad and does have its limits but might need tightened up some more because I can certainly get to places that lead to nowhere.

I've made headshots that don't make contact or damage while using precision. Part of that problem was that they could be high up in a tower (which have spikes sticking out) and I would hit ABOVE the logs, to make a headshot but since it was in that vicinity, it registered that as the spikes' hitbox so it wouldn't cause any damage and just alert the enemy (same if I was in the tower, looking down). Input lag where I hit up button on the D-Pad to regain health and I have to keep pressing it. If I had to guess, you have to meet the requirements of not taking damage, staying still, etc in order for it to actually work but it doesn't really have a reason to do that and it doesn't "tell" you that those are the requirements (as far as I know).

During the final boss, one of the enemies hit me into a rock wall, trapping me inside of it and the boss was already half health so I really didn't want to have to restart (I also didn't know how far back the checkpoint was) so I kept shooting stuff and eventually the boss destroyed the wall, allowing me to get out (timed section, by the way). There have been a few times where a tree or leaf or something is obstructing a cutscene and sometimes there will be a mech in the background screaming over the NPC talking, which I'm sure is due to the cutscenes being real-time which is still pretty impressive. Now are these errors all the time? No, not at all, I'm just pointing out that some times these things happened and that I felt it needed ironed out but I wouldn't call this half baked or an unfinished product or anything, it's nowhere near that level. I get that there are so many NPCs that it's hard to account for them all with facial animations but whenever they're talking, it seems pretty static and sometimes the lips don't line up. There's this one guy who says that he got lost in a sandstorm but he's standing in snow. Again, little nitpicks in an otherwise great game.

Now, I got this game for free as a Playstation promotion but that doesn't necessarily mean it'll be great, I played a little bit of that Ratchet & Clank reboot that was offered and I wasn't impressed, I quit after the first few worlds and was glad I didn't buy it at launch, (despite being a classic PS2 R&C fan) but we're not here to review that. I also played Abzu and loved it but it was short so it was definitely worth a play but maybe not 60$ (I actually think it's 20$ at this point though). With this game, it's the whole complete edition with DLC and everything, it has the length, so it really just boils down to "Would I have spent money on it otherwise?"

I think I would've if I knew more about it because I think it just got better and better after that first part of the game. It's marketed a bit differently than what I ended up getting but I found myself pouring hours into this game and loving it for one reason or another. I actually bought Shadow of the Colossus along with it (which is considered a cult classic) but I liked Horizon so much better, definitely worth its full price in my opinion. (So your promotion worked on me Sony, congrats) It has its problems but the potential is there and I feel like a sequel would probably iron out a lot of my troubles with it, so it's definitely a franchise worth investing into.

If you're interested in what I thought of the DLC alone (if you didn't get the Ultimate edition and are wondering if the extra content is worth it) I have a separate post that goes into that here.

#hzd #horizon zero dawn #review #game #4/5

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one-piece-dumpster-fire · 5 years ago

Note

The angst fairy hath arrived! I would like h/c of Cracker, Katakuri, Basil, Lucci, and Killer's respective s/o's being captured by the Marines under the accusation of a crime they couldn't have committed (World Gov doesn't care, they need a scape goat) and are subsequently executed. Bonus if the World Gov makes it look like the s/o betrayed their bae and bae only finds out after s/o is executed (apologies if this is confusing)

this was difficult to write formultiple reasons, but I hope you somewhat like what I came up with xd

And I don’t even know how to choose a title for this, sooo…

When the WG captures and executes you after spreading some nasty rumors headcanon

Cracker

to put it simple, the news of you beingcaptured devastate him. Why weren’t you back at home, waiting for himto return? How did the World Government even get their filthy handson you?! Oh they better not do anything to you or he’ll make themregret it!

of course Cracker will ready his ownship immediately to come to your rescue. He can’t employ a fleetthough because his mother can never know of his secret relationshipand feelings for you, otherwise she might just see to it that you’llget executed by her instead…

before he can make any rashdecisions and actually sail out though, his sister Galette, one of the fewpeople who knew about Cracker and your relationship, comes in with anewspaper in her hand. It is officially licensed and contains aninterview where you seemingly claim to be one of Blackbeard’s secretmistresses who infiltrated the Big Mom Pirates for information…

his whole world is just… cracking. You, the woman he thought he loved… Whom he almost planned a future with, wanted tohave an army of children with… used him this entire time?!

to think that he was ready to risk andpossibly throw away his life for a spy… Ha! okay then, (Y/N)! go on andperish, see if he cares! (he still does)

Cracker is not going to sit by andwatch your execution, instead he’ll go and do the only thing thatcould possibly make him feel better right now- get wasted in a strip club

and indeed, the pain in his heart isforgotten for the rest of the evening and night. Hell, he doesn’teven remember that you basically got killed a few hours ago!

but the next morning is simplyterrible. Cracker can’t get up (neither does he want to), his headhurts like shit and there is a picture of you right next to him inbed. Not only that, but his cheeks feel oddly wet… was hecrying…?

although he doesn’t remembereverything, Cracker does recall reading that you were cheating on himand executed by the WG. Well… you’re gone now, and even though hisfeelings for you didn’t disappear yet, the fact that you deceived himwill probably help make him forget about you. Yeah and then Galette comes backwith new, more accurate informations concerning your execution and ‘cheating’, which she received thanks to hermother’s huge network…

and Cracker never cried as much as hedid that day. What did he do, why did he believe a dumb newspaperinstead of you?! All the times you said you loved him, why did hejust discard that so quickly?! Now it’s over… you’re gone… and it’s all his fault…

Katakuri

it takes him a few moments to processthe news of you being not only captured but about to be executed thenext day. He just… took on ONE mission, how did you get yourself into such a mess during the short period that he was away?!

oh lord, this is breaking his heart, but…Katakuri can’t save you. He simply can’t sail out and start a war without hismother’s permission…

he is her strongest fighter. If he leftTottoland without telling her… not only would that count astreason, but something could happen to his family as well. Andunfortunately… you aren’t family, yet…

when he gets wind of you ‘cheating’ onhim though, it is actually somewhat of a relief to Katakuri. You see,he was on the fence on whether he should go and save his love or stayand hope that something or someone saves you after all… but nowthat decision was basically taken from him anyway.

and he’s not even that suprised. Afterall, who could ever truly love someone like him?

his mind grows extremely dark as hethinks about all the things that could have been. No, you weredistracting him from his duties, that wasn’t right… you gave himhope, but he just should have stayed pessimistic.

Katakuri, along with some of hisbrothers and sisters, watches your execution via their special videosnail. Seeing your body drop down on the floor, now completelylifeless, made him flinch for a second, but the moment was too quickfor anyone to notice

he hasn’t cried in ages. This day wasno exception. And even when the 'truth’ came out a couple days later,the tall man still did not shed a tear.

because he knew. God, of course he knewthat you didn’t cheat, but he still chose to believe those lies inorder to make himself feel better about his decision. Katakuri neededto force himself to believe the fake news since it was the only thingcapable of keeping him from sailing out to save you.

…it was a heartbreaking experience,but it did teach him one thing: his family and duties as Charlotteare the only things that matter. Everything else is just uselessdisctraction…

Hawkins

he was actually there and watched asyou were taken away

no, he did not try to help. One look at his cards and it was clear that he was hopelessly outmatched. Andeven though Hawkins cares for you, there would be no point in being brave ad possibly getting you both killed

but that doesn’t mean that he wouldjust idly sit by while you were suffering and terrified, oh no. Hestays up the entire night, works through any possible rescue optionthat runs through his mind, but the cards always say the same… 0chance of sucess…

he usually doesn’t reach for the bottle, but that night he almost single handedly downed the entire stash of his ship…

ultimately he has to accept that thisis the end. If he can’t save you, who else might? It’s a more thanbitter pill to swallow, but it’s obvious that no matter what, thisstory won’t have a happy ending…

the news about you cheating? Okay comeon, Hawkins isn’t dumb. He would have figured something like that out waaaaybefore some Government run newspaper, yet reading such ablatant lie does add salt to his wound

nonetheless, he does show up at yourexecution. It’s the least he can do, even if every second tormentshim on the inside

there are two main reasons as to whyHawkins is there: 1. he needs your body. He may not be able to saveyou from death, but the least he can do is give you a proper burialonce this is all over. 2….. these are your final moments. He needsto be there and see your beauty one more time before the life in youfades away

it was more than hard to watch, butHawkins knew that he would regret it if he didn’t stay for the whole ‘spectacle’ until the bitter end. At least you didn’t have to suffer for long….

you were unique in every way, and itwas an honor for Hawkins to know and love you. No one could ever takeyour place in his little, rotten voodoo-heart and until it is histurn to pass over, the memory of you will stay alive with him. he makes sure of that.

Lucci

as someone who is indirectly workingunder the WG, he of course knew of their plan. And approved.

it was supposed to be a simple thingand no, he would not allow you to be executed- they would capture youand keep you in prison for a few days, yes, but ultimately execute adifferent woman that simply looked similar to you…

but then the fake news of you cheatingon him came in and made Lucci go F E R A L

„no need to look for another woman.Take her. Kill her. Before I do it myself.“

he would never admit to himself thatthe feelings he harbored for you came close to love, but regardlessof that, you still… meant something to him. Something he couldn’tquite wrap his finger around. And that was your response? Cheating onhim? Betraying him, when feelings he never thought he couldexperience began to blossom in his chest?

Good. It’s good, there is no need forhim to get worked up, after all… those feelings would have justmade him weak… yes, that’s all… with you gone, he will be able toreturn to his glorious, calculated former self…

Lucci, along with some other members ofCP0, were there when you were executed. His eyes never left yourform, and the fear and hurt reflected in your eyes as you spotted himalmost caused something in him to stir, but 'luckily’ he managed toshake that off before he would have done something regretful… liketearing through your throat while the whole world watches

however, right after the wholeexecution is done, he gets the news that you cheating on him wasn’ttrue. And that causes his face to crack for a second

even though Lucci manages to supressthem, not even he could deny the swirl of emotions that suddenlyerupted in his chest. Emotions that were foreign to him until now-guilt… regret… hurt…?

with you, his greatest weakness died. Butso did the one chance for him to change.

Killer

first of all, capturing you is almostimpossible because Killer is one of the most protective boyfriends ever. And the WG knows that.

so what happened was that they managedto use the heat of a battle between the Kid Pirates and Marines tosnatch you away when a good opportunity presented itself

of course Killer- and some crewmates aswell- tried to hunt after them and get you back, but it was alreadytoo late, not to mention that a dozen marines were still blocking their path…

the news that you are set up to beexecuted suprises and shocks everyone. Heck, even Kid knows what a'useless woman’ you are, and the crime you’re being accused of issomething you could never pull off!

the Kid Pirates aren’t the smartestpeople around, but this article is clearly there to simply blame youfor something someone else has done, and it infuriates Killer thatthey attempt to taint your name like that

however, one thing they are known foris to do dumb shit. And Killer is usually the voice of reason, butthis time it’s actually him who calls the shots and prepares to sailoff to save you. Right into enemy territority.

unfortunately though… they didn’teven get close to the actual place of your execution. The marinesalready awaited them and a heated navy battle ensue, with bothsides (mainly Kid’s) taking some heavy damage

the Victoria Punk was close to sinkingwhen Kid finally gave the order to retreat, and even though it wasbreaking his heart, Killer had to admit that there was no point infighting a battle they had zero chance of winning

so they take off and travel to a nearbyisland where they would not only be able to make repairs but alsowatch your final moments via video livestream. With Killer being the onlyone refusing to watch.

and even though the rest of the crew (and especially Kid) attempted to distract him with booze and the promise of plunder, a part of Killer simply died that day.

#one piece #charlotte cracker #Charlotte Katakuri #basil hawkins #rob lucci #one piece killer #op headcanon #one piece headcanon

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it1776 · 3 years ago

Text

youtube

The Best Nintendo Switch Controller Review

The Pro Controller is fine.

I still recommend it to most people

but if you play a lot of 2D games that the D-Pad placement

just isn't gonna cut it. 8BitDo is been making

fantastic Deepak controllers for a while now.

I originally recommended the old SN30

if you wanted to play a lot of 2D games.

Its biggest flaw was it's ergonomics, making it hard to play

3D games with its thumb sticks.

They fixed that with the release of the SN30 Pro+

a near-perfect controller that quickly became

my favorite controller for the Switch.

I used it so much that I ran it into the ground

and had to buy a new one recently. Almost two years later,

they finally released an updated version,

simply called the 8BitDo Pro 2.

Thank God that name was starting to be a mouthful.

This version adds a lot

to the already fantastic Pro Controller alternative.

If you are on the fence about getting one before,

this one will for sure give you

a couple of pretty good reasons to reconsider.

(upbeat music)

This video is sponsored by Aspyr, the guys who brought you,

the Jedi Outcast and Jedi Academy Switch ports

are now bringing you Star Wars Republic Commando.

It's finally on Nintendo Switch

and PlayStation 4 for just 1499.

Check it out at the link in the description below.

Whoa! Whoa! Come on, dude.

Chaos has erupted throughout the galaxy.

As leader of an elite squad of Republic Commandos,

your mission is to infiltrate, dominate,

and ultimately annihilate the enemy. You will play as Boss,

leader of the special ops unit Delta Squad

together with Fixer, Scorch and Sev

working together as a team

instinctively, intelligently, instantly. You guys all right.

I was here first and then you guys just came.

Battle a variety of highly intelligent and deadly enemies

from brutal Trandoshan mercenaries, all right.

To the flying insectoid warriors of Geonosis.

This game was originally released in 2005

and I think is a crucial part of Star Wars history.

I love this era of Star Wars games and I love that Aspyr

is putting some games from this era on the Switch.

So again, you can try it for yourself for just 1499

at the link in the description below.

(water bubbling)

Sorry anybody got a USB-C charger.

(water bubbling).

So if you're new here

the biggest reason why I recommend this controller

is because of the D-pad. It's perfectly clicky.

It feels almost exactly like an original S.N.E.S controller

but you know, newer obviously. But it also has

all of the makings of a great modern controller.

It's thumb sticks feel almost exactly

like a DualShock 4 thumb sticks, making this a great option

for 3D games if you need something that could do both.

Here's something I often forget to mention.

It comes with a rechargeable battery, but it can be removed

and replaced with two double A's if you're in a bind,

something Microsoft should take note of.

It also has great motion controls and rumble.

The only thing that it's missing

that the Nintendo Pro Controller has is NFC.

But at the significantly lower price point,

are you really gonna be missing NFC that much?

The original SN30 Pro+ was and still is $45.

This new one bumps the price up to $50,

which is still a reasonable price

and some harsh competition for Nintendo's $70 controller.

It also works on Switch, Windows, Mac, Android,

and Raspberry Pi via Bluetooth, which is great

if you wanna play emulators or 2D games via Steam.

It's an all-around great controller

and I haven't even mentioned any of the new features yet.

Everything that I've said is also available

on the older $45 model.

The Pro 2 Sports 2 assignable back buttons.

This is a very welcome addition

and something I wish more controllers included.

My only gripe here is that

they're a little too easy to press. They're very large.

It's very difficult to grip the controller

without touching these buttons with your middle fingers.

In an intense game of Mario Maker

I accidentally press these buttons many times.

Luckily, by default they're assigned to nothing.

So pressing them did nothing at all.

You can assign functions to these buttons

using the brand new 8BitDo companion app.

In fact, you can remap all of the buttons

using the companion app.

And there are three different assignable profiles

that you can swap between on the fly.

Technically there's four because

there's just a baseline default one which is great

for when you don't wanna accidentally hit the back buttons.

Pressing this button right here switches between the modes.

There's off one, two and three.

In addition to remapping the buttons,

this software also allows you to fix the sticks dead zones.

It's also supposed to let you fix the trigger sensitivity,

but I couldn't figure out how to do that in the app.

I can only figure out how to do that on the desktop version.

But I like having my trigger sensitivity set really high

so they're like hair triggers because almost no Switch games

registered trigger sensitivity anyway.

Upon further review it seems that they disabled

the trigger sensitivity tab for the Switch.

So they got rid of trigger sensitivity

entirely for the Switch which is weird

'cause there are games that could still use it.

But if you go to Android or DInput or whatever,

it shows the trigger sensitivity, which is very strange.

You can also adjust vibration levels and of course,

macros, which go great with the new additional back buttons.

Previously, I used to assign macros to the share button.

Now I don't have to, unfortunately, the macro functionality

still, isn't very intuitive. You have to program it yourself

in the app, one button at a time. You can set the timings

between button presses but that's way harder to do

than just inputting a macro yourself on the controller

and having it record your inputs.

Something I've seen in a few other devices lately.

I hope that 8BitDo can eventually update

the Ultimate software and the Pro 2's firmware

to have this sort of functionality.

Because right now the macro function is pretty much

all only useful for like fighting games.

They did add the ability

to use thumb stick inputs for macros.

So if you have more patience than me

you can figure out some macros for Smash Brothers.

What might be more useful is assigning a turbo button

which is useful for many games, namely Animal Crossing.

I have a whole video on that if you're interested.

The old Pro+ had a turbo function but with this new Pro 2,

it might be worth it to assign one of the back buttons

to enable the turbo function. You can also have

the other back button assigned to hold.

So it will hold down a button forever.

So you can breeze through long menus or something.

Another useful feature that was recently added.

You can set the left stick to be swapped with the D-pad.

This is useful for games like Link's Awakening,

which should have D-pad support, but it doesn't.

There's also an option

to swap the right stick with the triggers.

I think that's some fighting games.

But my favorite part about this new mobile app

is that it allows you to change your settings on the fly.

You don't have to disconnect it from your Switch at all.

You can have it connected to your Switch

and the app at the same time.

This is something that you could not do

with the previous desktop app. This is huge for figuring out

the timing of macros or finding out the right button mapping

for yourself and immediately trying it out in the field.

One of my least favorite things

about wireless controllers like this

is connecting it to the Switch.

I often find myself just (indistinct) the button

till it finally comes up.

This controller alleviates some of that pain

by adding a mode switch on the back.

On the previous Pro+ you had to hold Start and Y

to enter switch mode. Windows, Android, and iOS,

all had different corresponding face buttons.

You expect me to remember all those.

There was also no indication

what mode you were currently in.

Now it's as easy as just flipping the switch.

You have Nintendo Switch, Apple DInput and XInput.

XInput is for Windows and Android.

DInput is for like old. I don't know it's

just probably don't worry about it. Other than all that

the only other real difference is it's enhanced grip

which is really just a textured back

similar to the textured back

of the new DualSense controller.

Other than that, this controller feels exactly the same

as the old SN30 Pro+ controller.

Switching between the two reveals that the face buttons

feel more responsive on the newer one.

Maybe it's because it's newer

and I used the shit out of my old one.

It's hard to tell.

- Oh no. - Hit the button, dude.

I think this controller.

(upbeat game music)

You know, I'll try, I'll try the top ones.

The buttons, the build quality, everything feels the same.

The Pro 2 comes in gray, black and GB edition.

I pre-ordered myself the Game Boy looking one

so I'll be getting that one when it eventually comes out.

But 8BitDo sent me their gray edition one, which looks like

it's attempting to resemble a PlayStation 1 controller.

It's an okay design. The A, B, X, Y buttons

colored like PlayStation buttons is like unsettling.

It's like a sin. The strongest design that they have

is definitely the Game Boy looking at one.

8BitDo used to have controllers that looked almost exactly

like Super Nintendo and N.E.S controllers,

but I'm sure they strayed away from that

so that they weren't bullied by Nintendo's lawyers.

It's also probably why they don't have

a Super Nintendo looking one at all anymore.

But I mean, the feel of the controller

is more important than anything else. And for 2D games,

there's nothing better than this,

until you find your Lord and Savior keyboard keys baby.

So if you haven't yet picked yourself up a 8BitDo controller

now might be the time to make the jump.

$5 extra for the back buttons,

the updated Ultimate software, the mode switch,

the custom profiles that can switch on the fly.

Yeah, I'd say it's worth it to get this version

over the original or Pro. Now is it worth upgrading to

if you already have an original SN30 Pro+.

That I'm not sure about.

Maybe if yours is starting to feel like shitty.

I know mine started to feel like

a little unresponsive, I guess.

I don't know how to describe it other than

it just got shitty and then I had to buy a new one.

But if you're perfectly content with your original SN30 Pro+

then it's probably not worth dropping an extra $50

on a brand new controller. It's like 90% the same controller

and about 10% new hotness. Or maybe I'm sure

you could find a way to justify it.

Maybe you could teach your grandma how to do Kaizo Mario.

What do you guys think about the brand new 8BitDo Pro 2?

It's a lot easier to say at this time.

Is this gonna make you finally make the jump

into getting an 8BitDo controller? Or it's something that

you would consider upgrading to from the original?

I don't think you really need to

unless like yours got like old crappy.

If you have a Nintendo Switch Pro controller already,

and you find yourself playing way more 2D games

this might be worth getting in addition to.

I mean it's like a second,

you get a second player with it to.

Leave in the comments below, add me on Twitter

and all this social media garbage.

As always we have new videos here all the time,

at least once a week.

This week, I think you're getting two, lucky you.

And we got streams over on twitch.tv/wulffden

where we can hang out and chat with each other

about stuff like this. Look at that.

Make sure you turn on notifications for all of that stuff

so you know, when we go live

'cause you can't rely on YouTube or Twitch to tell you.

But of course the most important thing right now

is just subscribe. Thank you.

I appreciate you for wanting to watch these videos.

And share this video with a friend.

A friend who maybe hasn't gotten

one of these controllers yet and it's still stuck

with the freaking regular role Pro controller.

Or maybe they're using the freaking split Joy-Cons

like a real, degenerate.

(gentle music)

Thank you. Have a good week.

#Youtube

0 notes

fly-pow-bye · 8 years ago

Text

Powerpuff Girls 2016 - “People Pleaser“

Written by: Haley Mancini, Jake Goldman

Written & Storyboared (sic) by: Jaydeep Hasrajani, Leticia Abreu Silva

Directed by: Nick Jennings, Bob Boyle

YouTube videos! To-do lists! Evil goo!

This episode, which became the season finale whether the writers knew it or not, starts with a lesson on what biomes are from a fake YouTube personality. Said personality seems to be stuck in the worst part of the 90s.

Braeden: This is Biomes with Braeden! We talk about biomes 24/7! (sudden cut to him playing an electric guitar) diddledodiddledodiddledo-wreeeeeeeeeeeooooh!

Yeah, he's no Strong Bad. He never appears after this scene, his only purpose is to teach the kids at home what a biome is. They could have had Blossom explain what it is, but it just wouldn't be hip if we aren't down with the Yous and the Tubes. He also introduces the Make Your Own Biome set; so easy, a baby can do it.

Bubbles is apparently less than this baby, as she can't get a tree to stand up. This still unnamed outside of the three seconds in one of the shorts school has given our girls another Science Project. Bubbles is doing a taiga biome, Buttercup is doing the egg drop, and Blossom is doing nothing. I guess she got a free pass after making that animal ray reversal button.

Bubbles: I got the tiger! (stock tiger roar)

Bubbles can actually do this with her special power of speaking animal, but it's hard to tell if this joke was made with that in mind. Since Bubbles can't build the biome herself, Blossom promises to Bubbles that she'll help her out after school. In her words, it's her top priority, as she puts it as number one in her cell phone's to-do list. After school, she helps her out, and the rest of the episode is about the girls punching monsters in the face.

At least, that's what could have happened, but what about this? During school, Miss Keane calls on Blossom to do a favor for her. She needs someone to write a speech for a guy that runs a bean resturaunt. Apparently, Blossom is literally the only person in the entire class that won't make fart jokes.

Blossom puts it in her to-do list, and being the loving sister she is, she immediately puts Bubbles below the bean enterpeneur. Anyone can guess where this plot is going at this point. Most PPG 2016 episodes seem to take plot points from the original, but in this case, it's taking the plot from Run, Blossom, Run. The big difference, is that in that short, Blossom felt the need to do everything immediately so she can get to class without guilt.

In this episode, she constantly takes on new favors, and instead of doing them, she just puts it on her to-do list. In her mind, any new favor should be her top priority, no matter what. Of course, this comes at the expense of poor Bubbles. She doesn't even care, and this will be far more apparent later.

I'll give one example, because it really shows how forced this plot is. One of the favors she decides to take is to deliver a pizza to a bunch of “hangry” astronauts. They really rub in that word, too; they have this mission control say what it means, and then has some yelling astronauts repeat it in a cutaway "gag". Huh, delivering a small box to a satellite in space quickly. A perfect job for someone who could fly really fast and survive in a vacuum.

This seems like something she can do instantly, but because of this episode's plot, she puts it in her to-do list. Those astronauts can starve while she fills her list full of silly things like deliver clowns to the clown college. Get it, clowns? Yeah, I don't get it, either.

It's long after school, and Bubbles is rightfully sad that Blossom isn’t helping her out. Out of luck, Buttercup shows up. Oh yeah, that Buttercup subplot about the egg drop. The egg drop simply consists of finding out how to drop an egg without breaking it. The running joke is that Buttercup's experiments consist of throwing eggs at her sisters, because that's what humans do.

Buttercup wonders why Bubbles is crying, and Bubbles explains her situtation. That rascally little green princess decides to help her out in Blossom's place. All this episode needs is a sitcom "wah wah wah" sound effect, but they thankfully wasted those in the last episode.

We get a montage, cutting between Buttercup helping out Bubbles, and Blossom finally doing her favors. I guess after getting 500 of them, she finally decided to do them. If there's one improvement over the short: at least some of these favors actually involve superpowers. For example, she uses super speed to fix the library, and eye lasers to light up the Non Copyrighted Multinational Sports Event's torch.

Of course, Buttercup's help doesn't go too well. Buttercup shoots the paper trees like shuriken, pours soda all over the taiga, and drowns the entire project in marshmallow goo. Bubbles initially laughs, and then starts crying that her project is "terrible".

Buttercup: There's only one thing that can cause Buttercup to be terrible.

It is way too easy to respond to this line, so fill in the blank: "____________________? No, she's referring to Blossom." She leaves, not realizing the biome project is slowly expanding. This will have an explanation, but it will not be a satisfying one.

There might be someone who is thinking, "well, maybe this is all against Blossom's will, and she's desperately trying to get to that Bubbles favor!" Well, that's not the case. Buttercup confronts Blossom on not doing the favor of the one person that truly matters.

Blossom: The Professor?

Buttercup: NO! Bubbles!

Blossom: Oh no, I forgot!

Yeah, she completely forgot about Bubbles. I guess she was too busy adding things to her to-do list than to be a caring sister. To try to rub it in, Buttercup tells her that she had to help Bubbles.

Blossom is more concerned that Buttercup decided to take her place, because Buttercup is incompetent! Buttercup tells her to relax, because insert obvious joke about character talking about something that can't possibly happen but will happen after the character talks about it.

Buttercup: It's not like marshmallow goo turns biomes into giant rampaging monsters!

Yes, marshmallow goo turns biomes into giant rampaging monsters, who knew? Blossom treats this as if this is supposed to be common knowledge. She does throw in a line about chemical composition, but that's all we get. Hmm, there is this magical chemical they could have used that would make a better explanation.

Come to think of it, I don't remember if Chemical X ever appeared in this reboot beyond the opening of the music video. Now that's one part of the original that could have been expanded upon. All we know about it is that it creates life, causes superpowers, and has an antidote. Wait, I'm rambling again. Quick, get me a non sequitur scene that adds nothing to the episode.

Oh yes, it's completely necessary to have a random scene where Buttercup pours marshmallow goo out of an oil barrel. Seems to be a staple of Hasrajani and Silva episodes to have poorly animated scenes that only serve to make this cartoon worse than it already is. Well, there is a giant monster, so can we get a giant monster battle?

Buttercup tries to defeat the monster by throwing eggs at it. Remember, that funny running joke that isn't funny or a joke? One of the eggs lands in the marshmallow goo covered portions of the monster, and doesn't break. This gives Buttercup an epiphany on how to drop an egg without breaking it, finishing her homework assignment. The Buttercup subplot ended, and the world became slightly happier because it did.

Blossom's Plan B: actually punch the monster! Wait, "the toughest fighter" didn't think of that first? The bigger shock, unlike every other time they tried this strategy in this reboot, it succeeds! The monster doesn’t even land a hoof on her, it’s just like the old days. Well, except for the hit flashes. Better hit flashes than previous episodes, but still.

Unfortunately, this turns out to be a bad thing, as Bubbles is sad that her biome looks even less like the picture. Finally doing her favor to the second person she cares about the most, she uproots some trees from the nearby forest, steals a water tank to give the taiga a river, and uses her ice breath to make it snowy. She apparently had learned nothing from the Snow Month incident. Average for the show, really; how many times did Buttercup have to learn to not be selfish?

This ends up making a biome big enough for the whole class to experience. Buttercup isn't too impressed; she was the one that made the biome a gigantic monster in the first place. It turns out those stolen trees, stolen water, and climate change-causing superpowers were put on the monster, apparently making it habitable and friendly. Eh, I'll take anything at this point, thumbs up.

Bubbles gets an A on her project, she turns into one of those chomper plants from Super Mario World, and those astronauts probably died of starvation. The episode ends with Blossom putting "get the monster out of the parking lot" on her to-do list, showing that she has learned nothing. Honestly, after watching 39 episodes and 4 shorts that might have counted as one, the biggest lesson I've learned is that I shouldn't take Cartoon Network's quality for granted.

Remarks:

Is the title accurate?: One could say that Blossom is pleasing people by doing them favors, though that title could refer to any time Blossom does a favor to someone. I could mention that this episode didn't exactly please me, a person, but that's kind of a foregone conclusion with this show.

Clarification: According to Buttercup’s paper, her and apparently Blossom’s nickname for Bubbles is actually spelt “Bubbz“. I will not use that spelling.

Come to think of it: One of head writer Haley Mancini’s previous works was an internet show called Raptor Raptor. According to the credits, it was directed by Matt Chapman, one of the creators of Homestar Runner. Maybe it could be a tribute to Bubs after all.

Final Verdict:

The season was going to either end with a bang or a whimper, and this one falls in the latter category. However, I feel like being a little charitable to this one. I liked how the biome monster ties to the ending, I do like how Blossom was actually using her powers, making the superhero part of the show necessary, and it didn't have any bad memes. Also, it's because it's the last episode of Season 1, and I can finally say that this blog completed something. This episode gets...

Uh, Buttercup. I said it wasn't that bad. Come on, try to straighten that face.

Oh dear. I guess after judging this whole season of the PPG 2016, her face got stuck in a permanent scowl. I could imagine 2016 itself didn't help. Maybe I should try to fix that up; I'll put that on my to-do list.

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#fpb ppg 2016 #ppg 2016 #fpb reviews #cartoon network #powerpuff girls

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