#can't say I blame him ducks are great

[bluebirdsongs16]

Good Omens drabble fic: if it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it's a lie

canard: 1. A false or unfounded story, rumour, or claim, esp. one that is deliberately misleading 2. (French) a duck

“A base canard!” interrupted Garhartra. “What’s a canard?” said Twoflower. “I think it’s a kind of duck,” said Rincewind from the far end of the long table. — Terry Pratchett, The Color of Magic

180 words of Aziraphale and Crowley discussing lies, ducks, and books, in the style of Sir Terry Pratchett, under the cut~ 🦆🦆🦆

“I’m afraid the Metatron has fed me a rather appalling, bald-faced canard! And I, like an idiot, lapped it up!”

Crowley’s brows furrowed. “You’re complaining they served you duck in Heaven? I don’t see the problem—you love duck.”

Aziraphale gave him a long-withering look, the kind of expression that only came out when his nerves were fraught and withering away at his patience. “You really ought to read more, my dear.”

Crowley bristled at that. He actually read rather a lot, thank you very much. What else was there to do whilst loitering inside an eclectic bookshop waiting for one’s angelic counterpart to return from running errands? He’d, in fact, understood perfectly and had chosen to make a joke. One he had lifted from a book by a certain well-regarded British humorist author Aziraphale had a soft spot for.

But he let it go. Perhaps the imminent Second Coming of Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to Earth wasn’t the time to make jokes about ducks. Personally, Crowley thought it was the perfect time. But different strokes, and all that…

[hotheadedhero]

Like 'em Big

AN: I have so many stories to write but I had to do this. Blaming being sick, m'kay? Fever has got me bad and these meds got me loopy. Thinking we need some good, silly fun in our lives, right? Plus, now that I've watched Rise, I'm hungry for some big Raph appreciation. I know I ain't the only one

Part 2

All characters are aged up

Raphael x Reader

Warnings: near peril, easily smitten, possible errors due to fever (what kind of fever is up for deliberation🥴)

Cutting right to the chase. You like big dudes. That doesn't necessarily mean muscles, either. You just love you a big man - someone with a bit of something-something to them. More to love, you know? Given your track record with the greater world, it shouldn't be all that much of a mystery. Cats? Get yourself a tiger that you can cuddle into. Jumpers? Comfort central, baby. Beds? If you can't spread eagle then you see no point. The old-age saying does declare that the bigger the better, so who are you to disagree? How true that is may be up for debate but it’s merely as simple as understanding what your preferences are.

However, this makes dating a difficult ballpark to play in. No matter how tall, jacked, or voluptuous someone is, it never feels like enough. Human biology and genetics can only go so far in the conceivably possible sense. You just want to be absolutely engulfed when you get a hug. Is that such a crime? Apparently, it is. Unfortunately, you also seem to come across the worst jerks when you attempt to date within this set of criteria. One might argue it's your karmic justice for being so superficial and picky but a woman has needs. Not those kinds of needs, either. Get your head out of the gutter.

All hope seems lost and after yet again, another failed date, you decide to call it in for the evening and make your way home. A fresh failure and another wonderful outfit gone to waste. By no means is it anything flashy but you put a lot of work into it: pencil skirt, turtle neck sweater, and a nice pair of boots to compliment the look. The whole shebang! All of that effort for nothing. This is the last time you spend three hours doing your hair and makeup. Block after block, your feet grow heavier with every step. What you would give to come across a mountain-like man you can climb who is also a kindred spirit. Perhaps this dream guy will forever be that - a dream. Men like that don't just fall out of the sky.

"Look out!!"

The sudden shout almost scares you into tripping over and you look behind yourself, wishing you hadn’t. Two very large, very dangerous-looking figures entangled in battle, those of which are approaching your helpless little self. You quickly duck as the giants hurdle over you. One falls on its side whilst the other claws and skids against the ground, regaining its balance. It shakes its head and locks onto you, a guttural snarl rumbling past its jowls. Such a creature is surely from the stuff of nightmares. An indescribable nightmare whose sights are set on you. The smart option would be running away but it's as though your shoes have melted into the pavement. Pawing into the tarmac, the beastly thing growls and lunges for you. Great. This is how you die: torn limb from limb by a demon dog. Well, assuming your clothes join you, at least you’ll look like a total babe in the afterlife.

"Oh no ya’ don't," the other one yells from behind the predator, grabbing it by its tail. “Pretty ladies are not food!”

With a mighty tug, he pulls it back and swings it as far away from you as possible. You release a shaky breath, legs trembling beneath you. That was far too close for comfort. The fight isn’t quite over, however. Just as it approaches him, the green goliath swivels on his feet, full 180, and whacks the creature's jaw with a closed fist. His speed alone has you in awe but the force is astounding, practically earth-shattering. It completely knocks the air around you and pushes you onto your backside.

When the dust clears, the first thing you see is your saviour panting, his spiky shell(?) pointed towards you. Just past him in the distance, you notice three more figures in blue, purple, and orange taking a closer look at the unconscious tyrant. You swear one of them pokes at it with a stick. Witnessing strange beings such as this isn't entirely new. Anyone who's watched Chateau Pretenche knows about the celebrity chef turning into a grotesque pigman. To describe it in one word? Horrifying. It's just whether people choose to believe it genuinely happened or if these bizarre entities exist. Being up close and personally observing it now puts your scepticism in check.

As the humanoid turtle calms, he turns to face you, recapturing your attention. A red mask sits over his eyes and there’s a noticeable snaggle tooth poking past his upper lip. Typically, the prerogative is keeping out of sight but it’s much too late for that. He gradually advances towards you. You watch him warily and he keeps his movements slow for that very reason. It wouldn’t be a shock if you were to try and make an escape. He wouldn’t blame you. Currently, all he wants to do is make sure you weren’t hurt during that fiasco provided you don’t suddenly come out of your bewilderment and run off. You have good reason to but he just saved you. Either that or he’s as ravenous as that beast and wants you all to himself. The irrational conclusion remains as such - irrational - when he descends to one knee and outstretches a hand. There’s an irrefutable kindness in his eyes; a caring nature that can’t be replicated in the face of savage brutes.

"You okay?" he asks.

You continue to gawk without a word but, bit by bit, you reach out for his offer. Your fingers lightly trace the centre of his palm before comfortably trusting the proposal. His hand engulfs yours completely and Raph hopes to mercy that you don’t realise how sweaty he’s getting. He can feel his heart beating like crazy. He wonders how much of that is the adrenaline from the fight and how much of it is being in the presence of such a beautiful gal. As he helps you to your feet, he rises to his own. Someone of his stature shouldn’t be capable of being this delicate but he is. It has you running through a loop and you unintentionally stare at the remarkable behemoth.

Quite pathetically, you nod, unable to verbally respond to his question. How can you? You are effectively starstruck. Once you gloss over the turtle-y features, all you see is the sheer size of him as he towers over you. Height, width, the magnitude of those arms! All of it is glorious. You can hear the universe asking, “You want a big man, huh? How about one who isn’t human?” to which you answer, “Who gives a damn?”. If the only way a man can be this big is not to be human, so be it.

Amidst a whisper, your mouth moves on its own, "You're beautiful."

"What?"

"Huh?" Blinking out of your trance, you realise what you’ve said and giggle sheepishly, "I mean, you're be... ba... booming! Totally awesome with the whole- uh... saving thing." Nailed it. 

He blinks right back down at you. This is certainly a first. He can feel his face heating up and he withdraws his hand lest you endure the wrath of his bashfulness, opting to hold the back of his head. At this moment, he seems to look anywhere but you.

"Heh. Gee, thanks." His humility is adorable and you’re glad he doesn’t question your initial statement. He turns to you once more, regaining some composure. "You sure you're okay, though? That thing was pretty scary looking."

It’s clear that you haven’t sustained any physical injuries but even bearing witness to something so unsightly can have lasting effects on one's mind. His brows furrow gently in concern down at you and it occurs to you that there’s a soft heart under all of that shell and muscle. Bonus points. This makes you smile for the first time in front of him and Raphael is sure that the streetlights got brighter.

You laugh fondly, “Yeah, I’m okay. Thank you.” Twiddling your fingers, your lips purse up in his direction.  “Is there any way I can repay you?”

He places his hands on his hips and chuckles cutely, “Just doing my duty, ma’am.”

He may be indulging in his alter ego - the Red Angel of Preventing Harm - but it’s not every day he gets paid thanks when he saves someone. It’s also not every day he gets to save such a pretty woman, either. You, however, can’t just leave it at that. There must be some way in which you can properly thank him. Ulterior motives include getting to know this already loveable lug better but shh. It feels like the odds are finally turning in your favour and you won’t let this slip away from your grasp. That’s when it hits you.

Muttering under your breath, you erratically search through the confines of your little handbag. You are certain that you had one in here somewhere. In the spare pocket maybe? Ah! Found it. Fumbling to take the lid off of your pen, you hold out your hand, gesturing for his. He slowly complies, to which you jot down a series of digits on his palm accompanied by your name and a tiny 'x'. 

"Gimme a text sometime," is the last thing he hears before you disappear around a corner.

Oh? Oh. Ohhh. Wow. Getting your number is the last thing he expected. Did he get hit on the head during that scuffle or something? Was everything from the last few minutes a dream? He bores holes into the writing on his skin, scanning it over and over, scared that it’ll disappear if he so much as blinks. A dumb, wobbly smile not so gracefully decorates his lips as he trudges back to the turtle tank. He takes his seat but it’s obvious that he isn’t all there. Being so caught up in his rose-tinted bubble, he doesn’t register his brothers' voices. In an effort to gain his attention, Michelangelo jumps onto his shoulder, partly intrigued by what their leader is so absorbed by.

"Oh me gosh!” the young brother screams in shrill excitement, “Raph's in love!"

Careful not to smudge the neat ink, he’s quick to hide his hand against his chest. "That's crazy talk!”

Donatello sniffs the air and mockingly covers his nose. "The overwhelming manifestation of your nervous stink indicates otherwise, dear brother."

"I got a girl’s number!” he continues to defend, feeling his face go all kinds of red. “'Course, I'm nervous but that don’t mean I’m in love."

Lies and slander. It was practically love at first sight. He just doesn’t like the idea of his brothers knowing that. It’s easy pickings to be made fun of.

"Don't worry, Big Red. Lucky for you, you got a guy who knows all about the charm." Leonardo points both thumbs at himself as he falls back into his seat and props his legs up on the dashboard. "First, you just need to..."

The "helpful" advice drowns out as the large snapper opens and gazes at his palm again. He just can't comprehend how a gorgeous individual such as yourself could take one look at him and give him your number. It's puzzling but he supposes there’s a first for everything? That also doesn't mean he won't text you. The only thing getting in the way of that is fear. Raphael thinks he’d rather go toe-to-toe with that mutant dog again than have to face the risk of embarrassing himself. To anyone who knows him, it’s no surprise that he caves under pressure. No. He will do it! A chance like this is one in a million.

Oh boy. What could possibly go wrong?

[oneawkwardwriter]

So High School

pairing: James Potter x fem!reader warnings/tags: none except some teeth rotting fluff, possibly inaccurate Quidditch team (I didn't know everyone's positions), allusions to suggestive content?, no use of Y/n summary: just James being an absolutely amazing boyfriend totally not self-insert what- a/n: and thus begins the saga of me taking Taylor Swift songs and turning them into stories about fictional characters. Don't even act like you're surprised, you shouldn't be by now <3 Also, I've been wanting to write for James but couldn't get it right, so a little thank you to Miss Taylor for making this possible wc: 0.8k

"And another goal made by Gryffindor chaser James Potter!" Remus shouts into the microphone while he reacts to the latest Quidditch match between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw. "That is three in a row for Gryffindor. Sorry, Ravenclaw, it seems like you'll have no chance of winning today, better forfeit already-"

He is cut off by Professor McGonagall taking the mic out of his hands, "Don't get forget to stay objective, Mr. Lupin," She says, just loud enough for the microphone to pick it up, but the crowd is too busy cheering to hear it.

James does a victory lap on his broom, flying close to the crowd. When he comes close to your section, he sends a quick wink in your direction. You lightly chuckle and roll your eyes when a couple of first years nearly faint from being so close to their unrequited hallway crush.

Not that you can entirely blame them, seeing as you yourself still can't shake the giddy feeling of butterflies whenever James wraps his arms around you. Sure, you'd been dating for about half a year, but somehow he still managed to make your heart skip a beat.

Not long after, the match is over when Marlene manages to catch the Snitch. Louds cheers erupt once more from the spectators on the stands, and soon enough, they're running onto the field to greet the victors.

You're pulled along in the flood of people, practically carried towards the field until the crowd parts for the Gryffindor team. You smile as you lock eyes with James, who practically storms right at you before trapping you in a bear hug, slightly lifting you off the crowd.

"That was amazing!" You say as you wrap your arms around his neck, kissing his cheek. "You did so great out there."

"Only because my lucky charm was in the stands," James replies, burying his face in your neck as he grins, "Couldn't have done it without you cheering me on." You chuckle, knowing arguing against him would be pointless even though you know he's a great player whether you're there or not.

The celebrations continued in the Gryffindor common room, the firewhiskey flowing while people cheered, laughed and talked to each other. Throughout the entire night, James held you practically glued to his hip: always an arm around your shoulders or waist, kissing the top of your head or your cheek.

"-And then Mary fired that Bludger at the Ravenclaw Seeker, and I ducked down for the Quaffle, and then-" James rants about the game, completely caught up in his story.

"Remember to breathe, James. We don't need you passing out," Remus says, making everyone laugh and James shake his head.

"Oh please, as if I could breathe when this one here takes my breath away the entire time," James quips, "Not that I mind, though. I'd gladly pass out if it meant you sitting next to me in the hospital wing."

"James!" You exclaim.

"What? It's true," He responds shamelessly as he shrugs, making the others shake their heads and chuckle.

As if you weren't already glued to his side, James pulls you even closer to him, making you laugh when his breath tickles the nape of your neck.

"Oh come on, can you two act even more like high school sweethearts? We're getting cavities from looking at you " Sirius groans, to which you only raise an eyebrow and reply with, "That's rich coming from the guy who had his tongue down his boyfriend's throat less than a minute ago."

"I don't see the relevance of you pointing that out, but alright," Sirius replies with mock-ignorance as he sits close to Remus, who nuzzles his face in Sirius's nape and softly smiles.

As the night progressed, the firewhiskey started to take over your systems, making you a bit more bold and unfiltered.

"You know, sometimes I still don't understand how we got together," You say, slightly slurring your words as you look at James.

"Oh god, here we go again," Sirius sighed, turning to Remus, "James is going to confess his undying love for her again."

"Hey, I can't help it that this perfect angel walked into my life, you have Remus to blame for that," James shrugged as he kisses your cheek for the millionth time that night.

You and Remus had been friends ever since first year, finding companionship in your shared love for literature and classic history. James swears he fell for you when you were rambling about the works of some ancient philosopher, claiming that you could light up an entire city with the energy you put into it.

"Well, I don't know about perfect angel, but thank you anyway," You say, resting your head on James's shoulder as you whisper in his ear. "I love you, James."

"I love you too, love."

© This work belongs to @oneawkwardwriter, please do not copy this work to any other site or claim it as your own. Reblogs are allowed and appreciated!

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[brotherwtf]

Prompt: “We shouldn’t be doing this.”

Pairing: Clegan

ah a classic, what a good thing to say when you physically can't pull yourself away from the other

-----

Even on their hundredth, thousandth, possibly millionth time meeting in an abandoned shack just off of Thorpe Abbotts, Gale still pushed him away when John's lips grazed his. It always perplexed John how easily Gale came with just a smirk of John's lips or a subtle nod of his head, but protested when they finally got out there.

Now, when John ducked down to press their lips together, Gale turned his head at the last minute so that John's lips pressed against Gale's cheek. He huffed in frustration, pulling from Gale and running a hand down his face.

"Are you going to do this every time? Or do I have to crawl on my knees and beg for it? Because I will, Buck, I fucking will," John says and Gale just sighs.

He shakes his head and turns away, facing the wall that John had pushed him against the very first time they did this.

"We shouldn't be doing this," Gale says and John wants to scream.

He grabs Gale by the shoulder and spins him around, holding him roughly and resisting the urge to shake him.

"So why do you keep coming back? You can just ignore me, then we wouldn't have to go through this game every time," John pleads.

"We're going to get caught. Our boys need us, no need for us to be sent home on a blue card of all things," Gale says, shoving John's hands off of his shoulders.

John's grip finds him again, this time actually giving him a firm jerk and looking him in the eyes.

"Tell me how you really feel about this, Buck. Don't fucking play with me now, because I think I care for you a great deal more than you care for me," John says and there's a creep of a shout crawling into his face.

Gale purses his lips together and avoids John's gaze, looking at the floor or the wall to avoid it.

"I do care for you, Bucky. It's just that this ain't right, between two men. I have a fiance," Gale says.

"Did Marge write you? Tell you this was wrong? Because I guarantee that the love I have for you can't be wrong, it's certainly not wrong to me," John says and there's a swell of heat in his throat that he bites down. He won't cry in front of Gale.

There's a glassiness to Gale's eyes now, and John hopes that maybe he'll come around.

"We can't do this anymore. I'm getting married to Marge when we get back, this was just a thing for us to help us cope," Gale says quietly.

John huffs with force, turning away from Gale and feeling that same heat in his stomach.

"Don't fucking do that. You weren't like this last night, hell you were fucking begging for my cock. Don't just throw this all away," John says and feels a small sense of victory when Gale flushes.

"I'm leaving this, John, I'm not getting caught for this fucking accident," Gale hisses.

John could hit him. Punch him straight in the jaw. But he could never do that, could never do that to Gale.

"Fine. We'll stop this. But you can't stop me from loving you. Because that sure as hell ain't stopping," John says and Gale's eyes soften ever so slightly.

He walks closer, puts a friendly hand on John's shoulder, but leans in to press a gentle kiss on John's lips. Even that feels like a goodbye.

"I'm sorry I did this to you, John. Forgive me?" Gale says and John could almost laugh.

But he'll always forgive Gale. Even if he shoots him or gets him killed, he will never blame Gale for anything.

All he can do is watch Gale leave their abandoned shed as John's heart breaks in half.

I would say I'm sorry but I'm not so...

[lesbianfakir]

I like to think a lot of how Fakir reacts to Mytho (and to a lesser extent Duck) is colored by his relationship to his parents.

The only time he willingly references his parents directly to another person is in episode 25 to Duck.

[ID: Two screencaps. In the first Fakir looks down at Duck off camera and says "In the end, the real me has done nothing but BE protected ever since I was a kid." In the second screencap, we see a flashback to his mother protecting him from the ravens as he continues "I can't protect anyone." End ID]

At the turning point of his life, Fakir was small, weak, and unable to defend himself. But Fakir's parents loved him so much they defended him until their dying breaths. Protecting vulnerable baby Fakir was more important than their very lives. Do these words sound familiar?

[ID: 3 screencaps of Fakir talking to Duck, all using the same frame. He says "to protect someone, those who are small and weak... that's Mytho's greatest wish. And to do that, he'll have no regard for himself. End ID]

In Fakir's mind, there are two classes of people: those who protect others and those who need to be protected. He desperately wants to be in the first class, though in episode 25 he admits he belongs to the latter. This classification system may very have come about and been reinforced through the extreme trauma he endured.

We know Fakir both loves and hates Mytho in equal measure for his selfless drive to protect others. Even as a child, he idolizes the idea of disregarding one's own safety to protect people:

[ID: two screencaps from episode 8 for Fakir as a child reading The Prince and the Raven and saying "'If it was to protect the people, the prince never feared being injured himself.' Wow, that's so great!" End ID]

My theory here hinges on the idea that this admiration was born of a subconscious connection to his parents. They fit firmly into his mental schema as brave people who sacrificed themselves to save someone defenseless. Fakir sees Mytho and his parents in a similar light--that much is implicit--but we can extrapolate this further and speculate Fakir perhaps resents both himself and his parents for their deaths.

If his parents had chosen to abandon baby Fakir, they would still be alive. If baby Fakir had not required defending, they would likewise still be alive. The turning point in Fakir's relationship with Mytho is upon almost losing him after Mytho jumps out of a burning building to save a trapped bird. Fakir realizes that he cannot stand to lose someone he loves a second time, especially not in the same way, and he becomes bitter towards the idea of protecting the helpless--even if that admiration is what drew him to Mytho in the first place.

Could Fakir see himself in the trapped bird? The helpless victim who is somehow half to blame for the impending tragedy? Does he resent his parents for their decision to save him at the cost of their own lives? The way he resents Mytho for constantly putting his life on the line to protect others that, in Fakir's eyes, are not worth the risk? Was Fakir worth the risk?

[gryfferin-gaybies]

Backing the Wrong Horse

Harry came home with a split lip, bloody nose, cut on his brow, blood on his knuckles, and what were probably the tell-tale of signs of oncoming bruises. He tried to duck into the bathroom to clean himself up without being noticed, but failed.

He knew exactly what Draco would say before he even said it. "Harry! What were you thinking?" He caught his boyfriend in the hallway, exiting the bathroom just as Harry was about to enter.

"You don't even know what happened," Harry protested.

Draco held Harry's chin carefully to turn his head so he could get a better look at the damage done. "Clearly you got into a fight of some sort. I'm not an idiot."

Harry let Draco examine him. "Yeah, but you don't know that I started it." He stepped past Draco into the bathroom.

"So you didn't start it?" Draco asked, grabbing a wash cloth from the linen closet before following Harry into the bathroom.

Harry turned on the tap and scrubbed at his knuckles instead of answering.

That was answer enough for his boyfriend. "Harry!" Draco scolded. He wet the rag with warm water from the bathtub faucet, not making Harry share the small sink. "Sit down," he said with a sigh when Harry finished washing his hands.

Harry sat on the edge of the bathtub with his knees spread open. Draco stood between his boyfriend's legs and dabbed at the blood on his face. "He had it coming," Harry mumbled.

Draco sighed again. "Harry, you can't keep fighting everyone who speaks poorly of the Malfoys. We were Death Eaters who housed the Dark Lord. We were on the wrong side of a war that hurt thousands of people." Draco referenced the great evilness of his family's past as he used a featherlight gentleness to doctor his partner's injuries; the irony was not lost on Harry.

"You had no choice. Lucius made those decisions for your family, and he's still paying for those sins. Besides, the person they should be blaming is Voldemort, not you."

Draco tossed the bloodied cloth into a hamper, seemingly satisfied with his work. Then he pulled out his wand to heal Harry's cuts. "It doesn't matter. You're defending the wrong people, Harry—hold still." Once the skin had healed on his eyebrow and lip, Draco reset Harry's nose.

Harry's eyes watered. He moved his jaw and scrunched his nose a couple times. "Thank you." He took Draco's hands and pulled him in close. "You were a child. It's been more than a decade. You're a good person. You've done more than enough to make up for any mistakes you made back then. Between your charity work and job as a Healer, you're practically a saint. I'll always defend you."

Draco rested his hands on Harry's shoulders, looking down at him fondly. "I am far from a saint. You need to stop getting in fights over me. You're going to get in trouble or get seriously hurt."

"I'll stop getting in fights when people stop being assholes."

Draco snorted and rolled his eyes affectionately. It brought Harry relief to know that he wasn't angry with him. "That's never going to happen."

"Once people realize that I'd do anything for you, they'll stop. I've just got to punch enough people to get my point across." Harry stood up and wrapped his arms around Draco's waist, kissing him once on the mouth.

Draco let out a small chuckle. "You're a brute and an idiot."

"But I'm your brute," Harry said with a cheeky grin.

"And my idiot." Draco ruffled a hand through Harry's messy curls before pulling him in for another kiss.

[satureja13]

Kiyoshi and Jack are on their way to the Tower to meet the others. Jack is worried what they might say about the latest news from behind that closet door ö.Ö' And he really hopes his great idea will distract Sai from killing him for defiling minor diety Kiyoshi... Jack: "You would have never asked me to open that door if I hadn't had such a bad influence on you - never!" Kiyoshi: "Jack, even Ms Coombes is convinced that you're the very reason why I was able to escape from that tree. You have no idea how boring and depressing 60 years can be with nothing to do. Just pondering about all I did wrong and how much I hurt you. And how lonely I've been. My life before meeting you ... guys hasn't been easy either. I gave everything for my family, the Resistance and the Temple. And I won't let anyone blame me for living my life now - and having a bit of fun. And giving everything I have to... my friends." He wanted to say '...to you', but he doesn't want to coax Jack into something he can't handle - right now. Jack: "I really hope you won't have to leave ... us again." He wanted to say '... me', but that's wishful thinking and he does not want to promise something he can't handle - right now. He didn't tell Kiyoshi - and won't tell this no one else either (maybe he'll tell Vlad, though), but he still feels the aftermaths of that lightning stroke. It just does not feel that devastating anymore. Maybe it will stop once they left this place beyond the Veil?

Eventually they entered the tops' bedroom where the others were just about to discuss some new ideas for their strategy to remove that spell from Ji Ho. Jeb was just explaining his idea: Since Jeb is able to sense Vestigia, remnants of once cast magic, he could try to find out if - and which kind of - magic had been cast on Ji Ho. This would help them to prepare to face Ji Ho's grandfather - and prabably the Council - to somehow make him remove that spell or - if he refuses - to resort to drastic measures ö.Ö' Which will be still deadly dangerous...

Kiyoshi and Jack entered, took seat and listened. Gladly the others came up with some useful ideas, the mood had been subdued after their first fruitless meeting. Jack dreaded to speak, but he can't hide the fact the last spot is gone from the others anyway - so he just thought he'd spit it out and hopes that Sai will just tell him to run and chase him up and down the beach for a few hours - until he calmed down... Jack told them what happened: "... and so my good mate Kiyoshi helped me out and now I'm finally painless and that damn heat is also gone! The Super Soldier is fully operational again!" Even though he sounds confident, everyone who knows Jack knows it's just his puppy strategy to distract. After he finished his speech, he ducked his head and waited for the storm to come...

No one said a word, no reaction either ö.ö Is this the calm before the storm? Kiyoshi stood up and reassured the others that no harm had been done and that it meant nothing and that they surely won't 'go down that road again', as Sai called it. Sai: "Please don't say you did it in the basin and contaminated the holy water again." Kiyoshi: "What? No! No. The water is blessed and pure. The Sanctum pristine and flawless." Sai: "And the heat is gone?" Kiyoshi: "Eh - yes." Sai: "And Jeb and Vlad won't be attracted towards Jack anymore?" Kiyoshi: "Eh - no." Luckily Sai didn't ask about him ö.Ö' Sai huffed: "Ouf - that's a relief! And the pain is gone too! *Sai slapped his hands on his thighs* Now let's see what Jeb can find out about that spell!" That's it? Jack can't believe he got away - that easily, at that! - with woohooing Kiyoshi! Maybe Sai will kill him after the meeting - in a dark corner - when the others are not around - making it look like an unhappy little accident ö.ö

They let Ji Ho lay on the bed and Jeb built up his magic to prepare to enter him - to search for the Vestigia. He never cast this special spell on a living being - just objects. Jeb reassured Ji Ho: "I'll be careful. Don't tense up, it will make it harder for me to penetrate you and search for the remnants of that spell." Jeb looked at Ji Ho, who hadn't answered and gritted his teeth. Did Ji Ho understand what he just said? Ji Ho wriggled nervously and wasn't able to lay still. Jeb's magic already stroked across Ji Ho's body, looking for the opening to enter him. Jeb: "Are you ok, Ji Ho? Did you hear me? Keep still." Ji Ho flinched, pulled his legs further upwards to his chest and hissed: "O - ok." Jeb's magic eventually found the opening, nudged Ji Ho a few times before it slid in Ji Ho's tight body. Jeb doesn't want to hurt him, so he proceeded slowly. Never before had Jeb been inside someone elses body. He was just as nervous and wound up as Ji Ho. Jeb: "Still ok?" Ji Ho looked at him with hooded eyes: "Keep going. Just feels ... eh ...uncommon." He croaked. Jeb nodded and reached deeper, inch by inch. Vlad growled. He can't stand seeing Ji Ho like this. So ... vulnerable and exposed beneath Jeb. And Sai hissed. He already witnessed Jeb searching for Vestigia and he didn't expect this to be so intimate when he does it with Ji Ho. He wants this to end. Sai just got back together with Jeb and again they are in an unbearable situation. How are they supposed to have a relationship in an environment like this? Being that close and intimate with others?

Jeb was fully concentrated on Ji Ho, sweat on his forehead: "Try to hang on and relax, I'm almost there." Ji Ho was finally able to get adjusted to Jeb's probing deep inside of him. Jeb breathed heavily from the strain: "There we go." Ji Ho felt Jeb getting nearer to the source of the spell: "Oh! I - I think that's the spot, Jeb! Just a bit deeper... Ah!" Ji Ho's head rolled back and he closed his eyes. Finally Jeb hit the right spot, rubbed over it a few times and let his magic spill inside Ji Ho to get to the Vestigia. Kiyoshi sensed that Sai and Vlad are on the edge. Witnessing Ji Ho and Jeb in an intimate situation like this is upsetting them beyond measure: "Don't worry. He's not hurting Ji Ho. They are almost done." Ji Ho looked to the side - embarrassed. He doesn't think they are worried Jeb is hurting him... more of the opposite...

But it was worth the trouble. Jeb found the spell! And he now has an idea what this spell is made of and how to deal with it. Problem is: Ji Ho really was imprecated to seduce Vlad! To strip him from his powers or to kill him they don't know. Is all they feel for each other a lie then? We will know more when the spell is removed. But - will it also remove the Bond - and their love?

Before they went down to the dungeons of the Tower for further investigations and preparations, Jeb and Ji Ho tried to recover and Kiyoshi and Jack told the others about Jack's idea. Inspired by their reflection he saw in the mirror. If they'd find a way - maybe they wouldn't have to face the Council and Ji Ho's grandfather in person. They could reflect the spell back to sender! Of course none of them knows how to accomplish this. If it were that easy, they could just pull the spell out of Ji Ho and destroy it. Ji Ho's grandfather is no inexperienced novice - like them. But it's better than what they had so far so it's worth following that idea and make something out of it. And for this, they started in the Potions Classroom. They also experimented with the meteorites of Ji Ho and Vlad, which made all that teleportation and travel to the otherworld stuff possible. Good they are all distracted for now. None of them wants to think about what this all means for their future - and what would have happened if they didn't find the spell and went back to the mundane world - oblivious. And Ji Ho's grandfather and the Council would have let Ji Ho attack Vlad. This time without preparation and protection spells. What a nightmare!

'I was born in a cross-fire hurricane And I howled at the morning driving rain But it's all right now, in fact, it's a gas But it's all right, I'm Jumpin' Jack Flash It's a gas, gas, gas'

I was raised by a toothless, bearded hag (I wouldn't call Uncle Stefan toothless ^^') I was schooled with a strap right across my back But it's all right now, in fact, it's a gas But it's all right, I'm Jumpin' Jack Flash It's a gas, gas, gas (ooh)

I was drowned, I was washed up and left for dead I fell down to my feet and I saw they bled, yeah, yeah I frowned at the crumbs of a crust of bread (or pizza ;) Yeah, yeah, yeah

Jumpin' Jack Flash - The Rolling Stones MV was recorded 1968! TMI: There is also a movie from 1986 with the same name (starring Whoopie Goldberg) which I love so much <3

From the Beginning 🔱 Underwater Love 🔱 Latest

Current Chapter: 'Here comes the Sun' from the beginning ▶️ here Last Chapter: 'Who killed Jack?' from the beginning ▶️ here

📚 Previous Chapters: Chapters: 1-6 ~ 7-12 ~ 13-16 ~ 23-28

[lloydlings]

LIABILITY

by me (flyingdutchman on AO3)

When Arin accompanies Lloyd on a solo mission, and things go wrong; Arin blames himself for it. POST SEASON ONE.

TW: descriptions of injury, but non graphic. violence. please be warned.

"Now, I'm going to need you to follow me." Lloyd says, warning in his voice, as he fidgets with the scarf-half mask around his neck.

The boy next to him, clad in a bright sunshine yellow robe nods quickly. Own fingers wrapped tightly around his belt and his weapon. The boy looks around warily. There had been a group in his former home of the crosswords, and they'd since been warned about the threat. But when he and Lloyd, his teacher, arrived, they had been unable to find any sign, at least at the very moment. Lloyd had responded to an anonymous distress call, and earlier today, Arin had found his mentor convincing both Kai and Nya to let him do a solo training mission.

But maybe this trust was displaced, Arin thinks.

"Arin?"

The boy is brought quickly back to the present by Lloyd, vibrant green eyes searching him.

There's a hand on his shoulder. "Are you okay?" Lloyd breathes out. Arin nods quickly.

He and Lloyd turn the corner, spotting several townsfolk in the wake, walking slowly and carefully. "Here's the plan-- we're going to get over there-- alley to the right, used to be a noodle shop my friend used to own."

Arin can hear the distaste in the usage of 'used to.", but Arin does not waver in his fear. He is scared. I mean, trying to become a ninja is much different than watching something from the sidelines. He'd never felt fear on this stage before, because he soon realized after the adventure of the dragon cores, that being a ninja was comitting to a life full of danger, that there was always a risk.

He'd admired Lloyd very much. The bravery, especially in his decision to harness power that could destroy him.

Arin didn't think he was as powerful to be able to do that -- I mean yes, he didn't have power and that was another thing that would probably up his chances of getting hurt but -- the distress call.

This was the Estrangers. A small group smuggling ancient artifacts. For Arin and Sora, they had been very knowledgable about the types of groups that wandered the crossroads. But this group had managed to source at least some vengestone after the Crystal King's fall.

Arin shakes his head, back to the present. "I'm not sure, --m, Lloyd. I've heard of the Estrangers, we sure we shouldn't call, Nya, Sora--Zane for backup?"

Lloyd turns to Arin after they find a spot behind the alley. Behind a trash bin. "I wouldn't of brought you on if this was something you couldn't handle."

A renewed sense of pride fills Arin as he sees Lloyd's trust in him, but he can't help but feel as though it's misplaced. When they'd all grouped to find the Dragon Cores it had felt as though he was the last choice, given his lack of elemental powers, and object Spinjitzu, and maybe that's why Lloyd had grouped up with him, given the green ninja powers were far different than anyone elses on the team, maybe more--powerful?

Well, Arin knew of Lloyd's past.

But recently, everyone was progressing. Wyldfire was far more controlled with Kai's teaching. Sora had grown stronger in her elemental power, and Arin couldn't help but feel a tinge of jealousy rush over him. But beyond this, in a distress call, Lloyd had chosen him, the legendary green ninja had asked him.

He had to have believed in him.

"They've sourced some Vengestone--" Arin says.

"It won't affect us, Arin." He says a peering eye. "It won't affect us. You don't need to have powers to be a great ninja--" Lloyd's attention is briefly halted, gesturing Arin to duck even more behind him.

Beyond the valley, they can see two men. One with a balaclava over his eyes, the other with a glowing object, shoved hastily but peeking through a bag. Judging from the yells and frantic speech they seemed mad, or at least distressed. Bright yellow daggers line their belts.

"They say it's from a perso-ordana--we can't."

The burlier man steps. "Those pesky ninja-- stopped us-- we can do it"

Their voices were cut off, Arin and Lloyd only being able to hear a few of their words.

Lloyd returns his gaze to Arin, who looks very much scared. Worry lining his features, his forehead leading his coiled bangs to stick there with sweat. The teacher brings his wrist to his ear, a whisper.

"Can we get a reading on the Estrangers?"

The com link on Arin's wrist lights up, as Lloyd instructs him how to use it.

"Copy." says Zane's voice on the line. "Estrangers, Location: Crossroads. Disrupted and destroyed multiple businesses to find Dragon items, items from Ninjago's history, scrolls, old Imperium software. Over seven victims."

Arin's worry grows, mouthing. "Are they...okay?"

"Can I get a toll"

"Seven fatalities, Lloyd."

Something in Arin breaks at the number. For he knows that being a ninja is a hard job, he knows it from the scars newly from the recent fights, from even training. To seeing Lloyd lost in his own thoughts, alone, in the library late at night.

"Keeping you on the line." Lloyd answers.

A pause. 'Always."

Lloyd reaches behind his back, clicking off the comm link radio as he does. He returns his gaze back to Arin, who is fearful.

"You're going to be fine, Arin. I've got you, we've got Zane; we can call a mech for backup, We have a plan."

Lloyd points to one of the men. "That man has a vial, most likely belonging to Lord Ras. We need to destroy it, and detain or question the Estrangers. You've learned return flight on objects, You can definitely knock it off, and I'll just proceed and destroy it."

Arin nods. "The Estrangers threatened Mr. Frohicky once, and the next morning his assistant went missing."

Lloyd watches as Arin looks at him, an anger hidden in the boy's expression but one that's there.

He puts a hand on Arin's shoulder, “Then we make sure this doesn't happen to anyone else."

A reassuring smile spreads on Lloyd's face. Arin nods.

"Let me lead, and you'll follow." Lloyd steps forward instructing Arin to put on his mask. Lloyd does the same. "We're good?"

A nod from the boy who's mask has dragon horns sewn into them.

And Lloyd is off, whisping past the trash bin as he follows to an edge. He instructs for Arin to follow, until they reach an alley end, two men fully in view, but a young woman now visible, crouched low, with her hands up.

"Where did you get this, girl?"

The girl shivers, as a sharp Imperium dagger is pointed.

"I-- I found it at the library-- the one at Domu -- My mom likes it the --"

One of the men laugh. "Speak clearer, or you meet your end--"

"Hey, hey, it's only a scroll." says a young man's voice. "Get away.." Lloyd points his katana. "from her."

The burly man scoffs, pointing the dagger over to him. "One of those cocky little ninja, wants.. to play a game?"

"If it were a game, it'd be fun." Lloyd says tilting his head.

His signal meets Arin, behind him, and Lloyd throws green; a burst of green as the man ducks, and lets go of the young woman beside him. Arin zips in fast, Lloyd leads the men off for a second.

"No game, when some person who thinks they're better than us wants to mess with Ras."

A large crack is heard as Arin takes hold of the girl, instructing her to hold onto his grappling hook. And the two zoom out of sight, probably over a building or two.

Lloyd grins. "I don't want to mess with Ras. I need to know what you are doing."

The other, shorter, balaclava wearing man brings up his own sword, pointing it at Lloyd's chest.

"Isn't he the connector.. to the source dragons, she says don't kill him." The burlier man steps forward. "But get his sword."

The other man jumps as Lloyd backs up twisting his sword, showing off like a swordsman. "You know I'm still here, right?" Lloyd says.

The man shoves his hand into his knapsack, and clicks something, lunging toward Lloyd, as the clash against his sword throws him off. He is thrown into a wall, as his back lights up in sparky, hot pain. Something is wrong, he can't quite pin it down, or pin what it is but something is wrong. Before trying to get up, he looks down at his hand, trying to light a signal, to reunite Arin with him, but it refuses to call.

He grips his sword, breathing hard, perhaps his only strength-- but the big man comes up again, pinning his other arm to the brick wall behind him.

"Such a loser, Green Ninja. And to think you're teaching that poor kid."

He attempts to call his comm, but it is smashed, erupting in a large spark. The blonde eyes the box behind the two men, glowing. He stares into the mans eyes, as he is unmasked hastily and it is thrown to the floor. Lloyd's face masked with sweat, his blonde hair sticking over his eyes, eyes darkened and emboldened.

"Would rather lose.. than be like dear old dad."

Lloyd looks up.

"You're from Imperium."

Lloyd is shoved hard, as they attempt to take his weapon. He gasps, holding his side, and the men step back a bit. It's almost mockingly, they have little to no fear in their eyes at all.

"Are we, hmm." The mask wearing man says. "You don't know us like you Ninja says you do. You don't know any of us. But Ras does, they're doing great things Lloyd Garmadon they're doing great things and idiots like you can't see it."

"Your sword is a great dragon product-- I mean Ras says you are one too” -- Lloyd winces, being referred to as an object. "But Jade interior, forged gold melted near the Golden Peaks, ibscirbes by one of the sons, what's his name -- Wu? is it. Thank the gods he's dead." He looks to the masked man beside him. "She needs good things to power her invention, doesn't she, Ko?”

"Yes she does."

"Don't hurt him!" Arin cries, distracting the men; as he throws the vial.

Lloyd rolls on the floor, throwing his sword previously locked on the floor. It collides with the vial, in a boom, of cloud and smoke. The men stumble back coughing, but Lloyd feels an arm lock around his neck. He attempts to breathe, but his effort is wasted as he struggles. His head is cloudy, as the tempting call to sleep fills him, his own effort waning.

Arin's own anger hit's a peek, as he takes a piece of the broken glass, holds a backup weapon from his belt. He throws the glass, spinjitzu, spinning with a golden swirl, colliding with the man holding Lloyd's neck. It hits the man's ankle, as he screams in pain, letting go of Lloyd, who coughs sharply as he hits the floor. His strength is still there as Lloyd gets into spinjitzu and rams the man into a wall.

"Oh you kid, you've got what's coming to you." The burlier of the two steps forward, as he swipes a dagger from his belt, Arin being cornered with no escape. Arin crawls, grabbing for his gun, anything to shield him, as the other.

The man raises the dagger, and suddenly there's a flash of green, elbow and hand holding the dagger away with extreme effort, away from Arin, a crouched kid, helpless behind him. Fear paralyzing him as he watches Lloyd.

"No you don't." Lloyd grunts, the green tinged with anger in his eyes. He's using all his strength to shield the dagger from Arin, eyes glazen with fear.

'Yes..' The man smiles, as he kicks at Lloyd's leg, which breaks him out of his focus, only to be caught on-- "I do.."

There's a ragged gasp, a cry of pain in front of Arin, as his teacher in front of him stumbles.

He doesn't see what's happening, but from where Lloyd was, and what he's hearing it's as though he knows it. Arin can hear Lloyd gasp for breath, struggling against the dagger, but the man smiles, as he maneuvers it. And whatever he did, Lloyd cries out, short, the hot, defining burn agonizing.

He has to be strong for Arin, he just has to--

And as soon as it's twisted, the fiery, hot pain, the weapon is yanked hastily, and Lloyd collapses to the floor, trying to stand up from his own two hands, as he moves one instincly going to the red, blossoming on his gi.

"Some ninja, huh?"

The man chuckles, kicking him in the wound, making the blonde keel onto the floor, hitting his head hard. Lloyd breathes raggedly again, his body shaking.

The burly man moves over to the one on the wall, hoisting the man over his shoulder, laughing at Lloyd, laughing at the child in the corner watching in horror. Watching in fear and trepidation, watching not because he wants to but the only person who's ever believed in him.

Is dying.

Oh god, Lloyd is dying.

The man laughs, taking the golden katana from the floor, stuffing it into the knapsack with all the items and the scrolls and -- They laugh louder and louder, it's never-ending. - and as soon as they laugh, it's gone, they're gone... And..

Arin crawls over to Lloyd.

He's shaking, blond hair over his eyes, only elbows holding him up.

The comm on Arin's own wrist crackles. 'Lloyd?" says the vaguely robotic voice. Arin looks to his wrist. "Zane--Zane”

Lloyd tries to turn at the sound, to respond, but he stumbles back on the ground.

"Calling-- suit breach, upper right quadrant." Zane says solemnly, but there's a quickness."Is this correct.. Arin?"

Lloyd looks over the Arin, as Arin comes and turns Lloyd over onto his back.

"Positive." Lloyd is able to grab Arin's wrist and respond. "We got--" Lloyd erupts into coughs.

Arin holds down the comm.

"Please refrain him from speaking, Arin." Arin looks over to Lloyd who nods, his head, pain swirling in his eyes.

"I'm fine." Lloyd says. "I usually can--", he starts coughing again, and Arin, feels frozen in time, trying to not believe what's going on in front of him. Because it's all so trivial, it's all so weird, and all of a sudden.

There is a pause. "We are on our way, but they have set up back up, and you might have to escort to a survival base, to a hospital."

There's a tinge of anger in Lloyd's voice. "I am not going to a hospital."

Maybe what feels so out of place is how young Lloyd sounds. For he knows Lloyd is young, at least far younger than some of his teammates, but all of the guard up, the solemness is gone, it's almost as if Lloyd doesn't remember what happened earlier, but he knows he has.

But he feels far more like a child, than his teacher, someone who's been acting sensei.

"Arin, he's suffering blood loss." Zane says, and Lloyd frowns, bringing his hand to the wound. "You need to stabilize, him, and move him, the quickest hospital is less than a mile, it's private but it's emergency, if not we risk---"

He leaves it off at silence. "It's not letting me-" Lloyd coughs. "I can't stabilize myself."

"Lloyd, it was a vengestone blade." Arin says.

The silence is cut off by Zane, responding with even more concern. "Vengestone?" Arin nods, as though Zane can see him. "Arin you need to get him to the nearest hospital, this is worse than I feared... They knew you were coming. It was a trap."

"Of course it was." Lloyd breathes, a scoff, only interrupted at he winces sharply pressing his own hand to the wound.

"Ras knows about Lloyd." Arin says, while Lloyd shakes his head. "He knows about his powers."

Zane responds. "We have your scan up right now, but the vengestone.. vengestone hasn't been used as a weapon before, other than shock bullets, but as a dagger, it's as though an infection. Elemental masters have some sort of healing process by the dragon power given to them, but vengestone stops that, which is why Lloyd is not stabilizing, and we have little supplies to address that injury. We cannot stabilize you in the time you have left Lloyd."

Lloyd curses under his shaky breath.

Arin pauses, taking the mask he finds from the floor, and pressing it over the wound, as it darkens instantly. He winces at the sight, noticing red on Lloyd's lips. Lloyd looks pale, he looks lifeless, although he is very sure he is alive, if not by the loud breathing beside him or the fight he can very well see.

There's no way to get Lloyd to a hospital unless he carries him there. And it's the only thing he will be able to do, at this point.

Lloyd grabs Arin's wrist, clicking the comm on an all-point setting, so they don't need to manually do it. It seems as though he's starting to accept his fate of being-- somewhat rescued if that's what's hurting him so much at this moment.

Arin has never seen Lloyd as a prideful person, though.

The boy moves to his teacher, placing one arm behind his back, the other under his knees. Arin lifts him with a bit of struggle. Lloyd is not exactly the shortest on the team, and it's not like he isn't heavy at all Lloyd is an adult, Arin is a teenager. But he's practiced weight training with Kai, and it's hard to carry a person, but he has to get to the hospital. He can't let his teacher die on him.

Lloyd doesn't tell him his own past, but Arin is familiar with a lot, with living in Ninjago City during Emperor Garmadon's reign, when Lloyd was only Arin's age, perhaps.

They walk, and walk, and Lloyd is not himself, that's for certain. There's a lot of pained muttering under him as he carries, a man far larger than him, and one that's bleeding out--

"He's crashing." says a voice, minutes into Arin carrying his own master down the dark streets. "Arin?"

Arin doesn't notice it, but tears are rushing down his face.

"Buddy, he can do it, he'll be able to be okay." Kai says. "Zane says we have a 10 minute ETA, you are at 2 minutes of St. Geraldine's Hospital." There is static on the other line for a moment, as he's rushing through the street. At this point he's not even sure Lloyd is alive or not. He has to be, they have sensors on the old suits that were redesigned.

"Crashing?" Arin says, Lloyd stirring in pain, Arin can now see he's unconscious.

There's a murmur on the other line. "Do your Spinjitzu, Arin. We have a minute until -- arrest, that's the fastest way."

Arin wails, defensively. "I can't do Spinjitzu, holding a person."

"You can, it's the only way you can save him." Kai says solemnly. "Do your Spinjitzu, Arin."

Arin curses under his breath, strikingly similar to the way his master does.

He looks down at the pale figure, struggling to hold, takes a deep breath as they dissolve into a yellow blur.

It's been hours.

He had been able to carry Lloyd into the hospital, collapsing with him as hospital worker, and at least four doctors whirred off as they carried him on a stretcher, his own gi, covered with red as though he'd been the one murdered. He stood in the middle of the waiting room, tears running down his face, until five minutes later when Kai and Zane had approached him and enveloped him into a hug.

It's been hours.

Nya had brought him a fresh change of clothes, including his golden hand stitched hoodie. He had walked into the bathroom and cried, until Kai ended up coming over and helping him replace the tainted fabric.

"He's going to be okay, Arin." Kai says, sitting on the bench in the waiting room, alongside Arin. Now dressed, clean of any remnants of battle. The floor, once dripping with--- covered with two slipping signs and cleaned over, smelling of bleach.

Arin looks away.

"If it wasn't for you, he would of--" Kai stops his sentence. "He knew what he was doing when he asked you along."

Arin winces at the statement. Knowing, his own master had gotten stabbed for what, for protecting him, it was almost like he couldn't protect himself, like he couldn't do anything, like he was worthless. If he wasn't so weak, he wouldn't need protecting.

He wouldn't of nearly killed the Green Ninja.

Perhaps if he brought anyone else Lloyd would be back at the Monastery by now, with a serene smile locking those items away so the Estrangers couldn't find them. Instead, and because of him, and only because of him, the green ninja had gone through surgery, because he'd nearly been stabbed to death.

"He pities me." Arin says, abruptly, before he is able to stop it.

"I'm.. I'm not a -- ninja, I'm just Arin, there's no way to get rid of me, because I have no place to go back to. I'm a charity case."

"He doesn't pity you." Kai says.

"I don't have powers, I'm clumsy, I trip over my own feet. I-- if you only had Sora, out of us two, you'd be better off. Lloyd chose me for the mission because everyone has been getting so much better, and -- I'm just me, I can do Spinjitzu, but even Lloyd makes fun of it.. "

"Before you go there, he does not make fun of it." Kai is firm now. "He was so amazed that you were able to transfer the energy to objects. If it weren't for you, we wouldn't of found any of these dragons, Sora, Wyldfire-- it was because one day, he was on patrol, he saw Spinjitzu. He thought it was one of us, because you can't teach yourself it, it's a thing of learning, we spent so much time."

Arin looks at him. "He wants me to feel better for being awful. He says he struggled with Spinjitzu, but I know that's a lie."

"Arin." Kai says calmly. "You gave him hope."

"And almost killed him." Arin says under his breath.

Arin stands up, but is interrupted when he feels Kai's hands on his shoulder.

"You did not do anything. The Estrangers made a choice. They made that choice, they've made that choice before. You didn't almost kill Lloyd. You're not the first one to feel that way either, believe me. But blaming yourself for what happens during battle, during attacks, is worthless. It doesn't get you anywhere. It certainly didn't get me anywhere, and I've done far more things and blamed myself for far more things that have happened to Lloyd than you."

Arin looks up.

"They were going to kill me."

Kai nods. "And he needed to protect you, that's what keeps that kid going, that's what gets him through the day, he'd never put it against you, and you know he wouldn't. Because he values you as a student, and as a friend, and -- that's the type of person Lloyd is."

"He won't remember it." They hear a familiar robotic voice, as Zane walks from the hallway. "At least from what happened, when Arin carried him here. It's remarkable how the human brain works." Zane looks to Kai. "Now I don't suggest mentioning what happened unless he talks about it himself, which is not what I expect as he heals.”

The fire ninja nods;

"The surgery was efficient, and he is stable. His healing processes are back to normal." Zane turns to look at Arin, who feels very small. "You were very resilient during this mission, I can see why Lloyd chose you in such a dangerous one, no matter how reckless that could be."

"Zane." Kai says warningly.

"I do not mean his choice in student." Zane says. "The choice to answer that call with two ninja in general, no matter if it was one of us or not, could be explained as reckless."

Kai nods, biting his lip. As he looks to Arin, who certainly seems very haunted by the situation. Kai re-assists his hand on his shoulder, but before he does, Arin collapses into a hug, holding onto him tightly, and he can't help but see the similarity between Arin and his mentor, how similar Arin is to Lloyd in some ways, their differences. but Arin doesn't let go.

"If you ever need to talk about this." Kai breathes. "Let us know, let me know."

Arin looks up:

"I will."

[ducktoonsfanart]

Louie Duck and Dewey Duck argue with Jack Kangaroo (my OC) about winning the Duckburg 500 - Quack Pack - Duckverse - My version

Last week I drew this drawing related to Duckblr Movie Night when I watched with my friends the Quack Pack episode "Need 4 Speed" (the episode has the same name as the famous movie of the same name and the car racing video game of the same time). Not to mention the length, the funniest part for me was the end where the Toy Kangaroo with the little accordion wins the Duckburg 500 race. On that occasion I gave my headcanon what it actually looks like at the end of the episode where Donald's nephews Dewey and Louie argue with their friend from Australia Jack Kangaroo, that the toy kangaroo won at the end of that race. By the way, Jack Kangaroo is my OC and I drew him a few months ago and you can see his first version here:

Yes, Toy Kangaroo won thanks to a quick fluency given by Professor Ludwig von Drake. Yes Toy Kangaroo is a toy from Jack, I don't need to say why. So I drew a short comic about it. For those who can't see, here is their conversation:

Jack Kangaroo: "I can't believe my toy won the race. How did it get to to you in the first place?"

Louie Duck: "Well...We didn't think it was yours, it was our Uncle Ludwig who tested how fast he could go and the won the race, and we fainted, when we heard that."

Jack Kangaroo: "All kinds of nonsense, mate."

Dewey Duck thought to himself:"I blame Huey for saying to drain everything of super speed fluid."

I hope you like this drawing and this ending (yes, some consider it the last episode of Quack Pack) and feel free to like and reblog this, just don't use my ideas and my characters without mentioning me and without my permission. Thank you!

And thanks to @writebackatya and @tokuvivor for the great Duckblr Movie Night.

[autumnbaguette]

Tokyo, 12.22 am.

"Mam, you haven't sleep in two days now. You seems restless since we arrived in Tokyo."

You look at your assistant, well groomed middle aged man, crisp black suit, the only person trusted by the elder to 'accompany' you while being stationed overseas.

"Is that so? Well, I guess i will take a rest for a bit then. The reports can wait yes?". You stand up and walk out from your office. Your assistant follow right away.

Here you are. In the living room that have this big window looking out the Tokyo city skyline. The shimmering lights of the city under, pretty yet somehow so distant and lonely, reminding you of someone you used to know.

"I'll sleep for a few hours and continue with the reports. You can leave your post and take a rest too."

"Thank you Mam. But please take this." He hand you several pills. "You can't sleep without these. I will report to the elders that you take the medicine regurlary."

A bitter pang hit your chest. Damn those elders. Whose fault is that anyway. You take the pills and swallow it.

"Thank you, you are dismissed."

With that, your assistant leave the penthouse. It is quiet now. Eeriely quiet. So you went to the bedroom, walking towards the closet. Changing your clothes into a white shirt thats too big for you. It looks a bit worn out but it will do. You lay on the bed, not even bother to open the bed cover. Again, those night skyline caught your attention. You can't help but wondering Where is he now?

As you about to close your eyes, you sense a presence. A familiar one and you know exactly who it is.

"Yami yori idete yami yori kuroku, sono kegare o misogiharae." You chant the barrier without even bother to open your eyes.

"I see that you're still wearing my shirt as pajamas. Old habit die hard really."

That voice, that damn voice. Sounds so laid back as if nothing bad ever happens. The last time you see him was after the confrontation in shibuya. He doesn't even say good bye, or sorry at least. The fact that everything went downhill afterwards, your relationship with Gojo getting colder and distant as the time passed by. It is a well known fact that You and Gojo somehow blame each other for the downfall of Geto Suguru.

"What do you want, Suguru?" You asked him, again doesn't even bother to open your eyes. Is it the fact that you are so sleepy because of the pills or the fact that you can't trust yourself about all the things that you gonna do to him if you open your eyes. Kill him? Maybe not. But begging him one last time to go back to you seems much more reasonable now.

The bed dipped and he sat beside you. Suguru study your face. Eyes closed, your lashes is a bit damp. Darker eyebags. And he notice your hair. Its different colour now. As pretty as always he thought. His finger caress your cheek, you fluttered your eyes open and meet with his dull grey eyes.

None of you or Suguru said anything. As if both of you really understand each other. Or maybe you just want to kill the time. Maybe if you stay silent without asking any question, he will stay longer.

"Shall I kill the elders? They overworked you a lot." His hand wander to your hair, stroking it gently. You can't help but smile and chuckle a little bit. "That would be great, but no Suguru."

"Or maybe you can just quit? Buy a land in rural area, raise some chickens and ducks. Plants lots of flowers and fruit trees.  Remember that? Have a simple life."

It is strange that after what happened, after all these years, here you are with Suguru, having a small talk like some kind of married couple do at the end of their day. No hatred, no baggage whatsoever.

Indeed you want it, a simple life with him.

Tracing his face with your finger. Almost no differences since the last time you saw him. A little bit freckles here and there. Those small lines at the end of his eyes. No eyebags though. His hair is still the same, the earings, his smile.  

"Im sorry." You said. "I should've known." This time your finger cares his cheek, "Can you just go back? I will do my best explaining everything to the elders, to Satoru. Im sure he will listen, you are still his bestfriend afte-."

"No." Suguru cut you off. His tone is cold, distant.

"Nothing will ever change my ideology, my plan and my future. I love you, i still do. But it doesnt put you at the top of my list. You should be aware of it by now."

Indeed, this is Suguru. The real one. Everyone sees him as the emphathetic, the calm and the good ones compare to Satoru. Yet, this side of him never really caught their eyes. How determine he is once he set his goal, nothing gonna stop him. Not even you, not even his family, not even his bestfriend Gojo Satoru.

It would be a lie to say his words doesn't hurt you. It hurt a lot, you want to cry. Screaming at him but here you are, looking at him. Still caressing his face gently, afraid that if you do it harder He's gonna fall apart like a fine china. Crumbling into pieces.

So, it's okay.

It's gonna be okay.

"I know, but i still wanna take my chances." you said while smilling, trying hard to stay awake since the pills starting to get you sleepier than before.

He doesn't say anything. Suguru watch your face as the sleep starts to take over. His hands keep stroking your cheeks gently. To be honest, he kinda expect you to get hostile with him. Maybe curse him a little bit when he appear, or maybe you will cast a curse spell to hurt him. But you did none of it, somehow he feels relieve but sad at the same time.

Your breathing becomes steady, thats a cue for Suguru to take his leave. One final look at you, "I'm sorry. I promised to make you the happiest yet somehow I always ended up hurting you the most."

He kiss your forehead, correcting your sleep position and pull the blanket over you. Still adoring your face for one last time, "Good night my love. Until we meet again."

[yaboirezzy]

More AmyTerry Stuff bc I am 100% normal about them

Terry: Y'know, because you're cute, doesn't mean you get to call all the shots around here!

Amy, was about to argue with him but pauses and blushes: Y-you think I'm cute?

Terry, realizing his words: Aw, dangit!

————————————————————————

Terry: Hey Ames?

Amy: Uh-huh?

Terry: Would you still love me if I was a worm?

Amy: .... I would throw you away

Terry: WHY-

Amy: *kisses him on the cheek* -to my miniature heart shaped ecosystem~

————————————————————————

Terry, wearing a duck costume and holding an umbrella: Hey Amy! If I jumped off a roof with these, do you think it would complete my transformation into a duck?

Amy: *does the hands clapped together and inhale move* Remind me to never leave you alone in any rooftops 'or ever if I'm being honest'

Terry, smirking: Well, in that case. I'll be having a candlelit dinner on my roof tomorrow at 6 PM 'and I'm keeping the duck costume!'

Amy: *inhales again* Please...just ask me out like a normal person!! 'That was really smooth, idiot~'

————————————————————————

Amy, with her back turned: *sobbing and sniffling*

Terry, entering the room and seeing what's going on: Hey Amy, I...I wanna apologize for the prank I did earlier, I realized that it was rather meaner then what I usually do. In fact, I actually wanna apologize for all the pranks I've caused before, I was just trying to have some fun and I don't actually mean to hurt you or anyone else, including when we were bickering and arguing someti-

Amy, turns her attention to Terry revealing that she was holding some onion cuts: What was that Terry, sorry I'm helping out my mom with these onions since the kitchen is kinda crowded with stuff

Terry: ...Y'know what forget it, I don't really feel like telling you that agai-

Amy: *went over to him and hugs him* Aw, I'm just messing with you, dum dum. I understand you and accept your apology

Terry: *blushing but hugs her back*

Barbara, peering from the kitchen doorway smirking: You know, I can get those onions by myself if you'd like to, dear

————————————————————————

The Blairwoods Squad: *playing a card game called "Do or Die (quit the game)"*

Sidney, feeling nauseous and betrayed: I can't believe you made me eat a block of stinky cheese!

Connor, wearing a girly looking dress (the same one he had to wear before): I'm sorry Sidney, but you can't blame me, it was the game! Heck, do you think I'm happy that I have to wear this again?

Sylvia: Okay Terry, it's your turn now! Pick two cards and see what they say

Miko: And you better do it, cause this'll be a short round for you but a long one for us if you "die" so soon!

Terry: Hah! You wish, this is the great Terry you're talking about here, I can handle anything! *he picks two cards and reveal that they say "The current player should kiss ______" and "Player 3"*

Terry and Amy, who was Player 3: *blushes*

The Others: Ooooooooo!

Amy, who was starting to sweat: Heh, who care about losing this game anyway. I'm sure you can handle that, right Ter-

Terry: *grabs and kisses Amy on the lips*

The Others: *did their rendition of the Yureimoto Siblings shocked faces moment albeit a happy version*

Miko: Holy s***! Is anyone else seeing some rainbows, flowers, hearts, and a lovely video effect, or is that just me?!!

Sylvia: Nope, I see it too...

Sidney: Pretty sure I saw some tongue...

Connor: *AOL dial up internet sounds*

Erma: 🥹 'Now I know how Timon and Pumba felt!!'

Felicia, who just arrived with the other older teens and adults, smirking: Well, clearly we arrived just in time for the picnic!

Terry: *dashes outta there in the speed of light and in embarrassment*

Amy: *cosplays as Amity once more*

————————————————————————

Here's one for @trickrtreat2004's Werewolf! Amy AU

Terry, getting impatient: So, are you finally gonna tell me what's up, or am I gonna stand here all night or something?

Amy: Promise me you won't freak out!

Terry: Well if it make this any faster, then ye- *sees Amy new werewolf form*

Amy: Please don't run away, you're the only one that can help me at this time

Terry: ....Really?

Amy, surprised: What?

Terry: Really, this is what you were getting so worked up about?

Amy: Wha- What are you talking about?!

Terry: This *gestures to her new form*, I thought it was gonna be something seriously sick or twisted, but you being a werewolf? That's not so bad!

Amy: HOW IS THIS NOT SO BAD?!

Terry: I mean, compared to all the weird things we've experienced so far, Erma and the things she brings along, Sidney and her people, the other stuff around town, this is pretty tame and lame compared to those. *holds hands with her bigger more monstrous ones* If you're worried about how we'd react to this, don't be, we all got your back no matter what, if anything we'll happily help you in finding out whatever way to solve this werewolf problem, why? cause you're our little blonde besti-

Amy, crushing him in a bear wolf hug: OOOOOOH Thank you Terry, I love and can't thank you enough for this!!

Terry, gasping for air in pain: Amy, I can't-! I can't breath-!

————————————————————————

Amy: *sees Terry sleeping with his back against the tree* Woah Terry is actually asleep at this time of the day?

Terry, sleeping: ....

Amy: *looks around in case of anyone else seeing them, kisses him on the lips*

Terry, wakes up and blushing: G-huh?! A-Amy...? did you just...?!

Amy, red as an apple: OH GOD HE WOKE UP!! At least no one is- *notices the others are staring at them a few meters away* OH FU—

————————————————————————

And now...three of these from their adult years...

Terry: Y'know, when you said you were "magical in bed" this isn't exactly what I exp-

Amy: *pulls out an 8 poker card* Is this your card?

Terry, flabbergasted because it was: Holy smokes, IT IS—!

————————————————————————

Amy: Sweetie, do you think this dress makes me look fat?

Terry, jokingly: Hey, don't blame the dress now, hun! *chuckles* I'm so funny

The skies became dark

Amy: *gets so angry that she made a callback to when she was hit by his water bucket prank when they were kids*

Terry, scared for his life: Ah!? AMY HOLD ON, WAIT IT WAS A JOKE—

Meanwhile their kids are with the others (and their kids as well)

Sidney: Welp kiddos, better hope that your old man survives this one again...

————————————————————————

Terry: Hey everyone! Sorry if I'm late for the festival, I was busy doing stuff

Amy, behind him looking really happy/satisfied: Hi everyone! I'm stuff~

Terry: Oh my god, AMY NO-!

Everyone, putting their troll mode on: Ha ha Terry, you are definitely doing Amy/my sister/my daughter!

[fountainpenguin]

As someone who knows nothing about trafficblr and only knows Impulse and Bdubs through your posts I feel like I just got sucker punched finding out that Impulse brought this apparent backstabbing on himself

Not to victim-blame but he had it coming, smh.

I like hearing Impulse talk about the Life series because he deliberately went into 3rd Life trying to play a character who schmoozes with everybody else and he kind of figured that he'd get caught eventually, but I don't think he expected the first two people he met to call him out...

After Impulse proposes an alliance, Bdubs just straight-up tells him "This feels like you're dating other girls but 'Oh don't tell anybody'" and Impulse is SO confused. For the rest of the season, Bdubs and Cleo refer to Impulse as "their secret girlfriend" and it's just. so funny. They regularly talk about how Impulse is cheating on them with everyone else on the server because he keeps ducking in and out of the other teams and it's hilarious. They stop trusting him towards the end because even though Impulse is constantly singing their praises, they don't trust he's not also flattering everybody else... They can't tell where his loyalties lie. They just know he can't be trusted.

The entire set-up of Scar being a silver-tongued salesman who sells people coffins and scams them out of their shoes is SO funny, especially when paired off against Impulse who was actively TRYING to manipulate and just... is more transparent than a window. Nobody knows who Impulse is aligned with, just that he's being fake. Which is just... such an interesting betrayal dynamic. "Guy we're pretty sure we can't trust but idk man, maybe he'll betray the other guys first."

Impulse's entire story is about not realizing that people don't trust him, which is HILARIOUS. He's trying to schmooze up to everyone, and he doesn't even realize that Ren and Martyn freaked out when they saw his name pop up in chat as the guy who shot Tango... Impulse was dragged into a firing squad and just happened to get the last arrow on Tango to kill him, and Ren and Martyn think it's some big betrayal and they start to panic and cut ties with Impulse, and Impulse has NO idea. He just keeps playing nice with everyone but, like. Everybody knows he's just flirting with every team on the server and his loyalties are all over the place. It's great.

At the end of 3rd Life, Scar gifts Bdubs a clock that he picked off Impulse's body a few minutes earlier and requests he join up as an ally of the desert duo team. Bdubs agrees and jumps down to claim the clock. Impulse is watching from the distance and mistakes Scar tossing the clock at him for Scar taking a swing at him, so he rushes forward to Bdubs' rescue, and then Bdubs turns, kills him, and leaves him to die saying "They gave me a clock" and that's Impulse's perma-death in that season.

Impulse has never gotten over it... He ran forward to rescue his perceived best friend and died for it, and he's SO mad that it was HIS clock Bdubs betrayed him for... He will still spit and seethe about it, it's fantastic.

In Bdubs' mind, he'd never totally trusted Impulse because Impulse was blatantly canoodling with all the other teams, but apparently it was a huge shock to Impulse because he just. either did not realize how transparent he was or didn't think it was important. It's hilarious. I love the 3rd Life improv dynamics. Clock duo, my beloved.

Anyway yeah <3

[amypihcs]

And let's see how the case ends! Watson and Holmes go to see Miss Dumbar after a night at Wincest- WATSON!! IS NOW THE TIME??

Watson, your bisexuality is showing. A LOT. So, while our dear Watson is starstruck and tries to pry his eyes away from Miss Dumbar, Holmes is very kind to her and asks her the one thing miss Dumbar CAN AND WANT to give.

The truth. Aridaje with tropical excited nature, guys, however can you just think it is actually a thing? Anyway Mrs Gibson HATED Miss Dumbarr and saw her as a rival. Holmes and our fave girl talk about all the crime matter how it happen, what did you do, did you put the gun in the closed and so on and then Holmes is thinking... thinking...

He tries to rubber duck Miss Dumbar because she's the nearest human and the one he's talking with and then!

WATSON! We KNOW he's hot and that you find him the best man is the world, but... aaah, you're hopeless. Then Holmes starts vibrating once more! He's excited! He's got it!

And of course in the train he can't, simply can't stay still! He's bouncing on the walls!

NOW, WATSON! Your revolver, you have it? Of course i do, you don't care for your safety like EVER. Come on, stop the 'i told you so's please, can i see it?

-still bouncing over the walls- I can only say. The gayness of this scene. Doyle knew PERFECTLY WELL what he was doing.

No, no, he's up to something

And to something BIG! Now, i'll nickname the revolver Johnny. And we trust Johnny to solve the case, once and for all!

The station! Ah, Sergeant!

Sergeant: Is the famous great detective a madman? Well, he's more energetic than a boy, certainly!

Now the experiment. on the bridge. 3, 2, 1

BANG

Watson: -sigh-

Poor Watson. Once again.

At least Holmes makes so that the revolver is retrieved. Watson WILL spend the evening cleaning and drying it while listening to Holmes' reasons. And no funnier past-time until the revolver is dry and in working order! Ah, finished! A pipe before bed, then!

Oh, come on, Holmes! You never understood women, and this one was a very clever one. Stop blaming yourself, my dear! -kissy-

Watson's no more angry at Holmes! Good! Miss Dumbar will be free and all's well what ends well!

[websterss]

julie i was the one to ask about blurbs for dad!ethan world. IM SORRY I DIPPED I GOT SCARED!!! also i couldn’t think of anything and didn’t think you wanted blurbs right away.

but i have just a simple one that came to my mind at 5am (pst). just a simple day in their lives. like maybe ethan had been back for about six months and everyone is slowly opening up to him, but chad is still wary (fully understandable) and he’s like “there needs to be someone in the house when ethan’s here” or “make sure you stick to crowded and lighted areas, don’t let him take you to a second unknown location.” just chad being very protective and keeping watchful eyes and tabs on ethan.

you know? cause chad was so real for his reaction honestly. YOU ALMOST GOT KILLED!!!!

Erin that was you?!🤣💀lmfao honestly you were right tho. I wasn’t ready for them yet😄🤷🏻‍♀️ you know me so well.

Seol sent me a blurb about going on a first date again with Ethan, so the ending of this one will start the blurb she sent okay!

-

"Where are you going?"

"Chad, I already had a run down with Sam and Tara...and Mindy." You fix your black long-sleeve a couple times. Your jitters riling you up. You were nervous. You meet Chad's eyes in the mirror. Him leaning against the wall behind you, his arms crossed as his head tilts. "I'm going on a date with Ethan."

"Yeah, but where?" He asks.

"I don't know Chad. We're just going out. Maybe to catch a movie, or grab something to eat. We're just going out okay!" You sigh and let your shoulders fall.

"You can't just still be fine with all this. I mean you let him back into our-"

"It's been a year Chad! A year. You just...you need to get over it already." You look down at your bag, fiddling, and making sure that your stuff was all there.

"Getting stabbed 12 times isn't something I can just get over, Y/n." Chad straightens up. You look up, meeting his eyes again through the reflection. Guilt raids your eyes as you turn to slowly face him.

"I'm sorry-"

"No. I'm sorry. I still hover over you and Samara."

"We know you mean well..." You reach out to place a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"But..." He nodded waiting to hear your rebuttal.

"Ethan picked our side. That's got to count for something. Samara has her dad in her life. Most kids can't say they do. I just feel...I feel like I got lucky with him, coming back and all. This is my do-over Chad. His do-over. It's all I wanted and waited for during those nine months. Now a year has passed, and the world makes sense again." You beam, your waterline brimming with water. You reach forward and cup his face. "I love and appreciate how much you've taken care of us, all of us. But have you stopped to think that maybe we're okay now..." You tilt your head, tears brimming his waterline now.

"We don't know that-"

"I-I know we don't." You reassure him. "But he hasn't tried anything. I truly believe that he's changed for the good of it all. That he doesn't pose a threat to any of us. That somewhere deep down, you'll find your dorky roommate again." You nudge his shoulder playfully. "He's still that guy."

"Until he wasn't anymore..." Chad scoffs. You close your eyes, sighing in defeat. Chad would still hold a grudge over him, and you didn't blame him for it one bit. Silence fell over the two of you comfortably. He looked at you through his lashes, his cheeky smile plastering back onto his face. "You look beautiful. He's not gonna know what hit 'em." He took your hand and twirled you around. You slowly shimmy your shoulders playfully as you duck under his arm.

"Yeah?" You pose dramatically. "Not too much for a first date?" You look down at yourself.

"You look great, but if you wanna really knock his socks off-" He reaches forward, asking you silently with his eyes if he can adjust your outfit. He pulled at the collar of your shirt down past your shoulders so they rest on your upper arms. A Regina George flair before she got hit by the bus, if you will. He turns you towards the mirror. Your smiles replicating one another.

"Look at you. You're glowing momma!" He leans and pecks your cheek sweetly.

"Thanks..." You let out a faint laugh.

"Should I tell the girls to leave it unlocked tonight or are you-" He pauses when you give him a quirk of your brow. The indication and slight smirk let him know otherwise. "Oh. So you're not coming home." Chad's eyes widened. "Okay momma bear, just don't come back pregnant again. Samara doesn't need a brother or sister right now." He gestures to the hall where your daughter was currently sound asleep in your shared bedroom. "Wear a condom." Chad bluntly says.

"Oh my god, stop please!" You scoff out a laugh. "We did last time, look what happened!" You exclaim with a smile, gesturing to the child two rooms down.

"Then...tell him to pull-"

Luckily you were saved by the doorbell.

"Oh thank god!" You push past him and compose yourself before swinging it open. Ethan had been looking down before he trailed his eyes up and down your form. His socks were definitely rocked. It made you feel a little more confident seeing him so flustered.

"W-Wow...You look gorgeous." He breathes out.

"Not so bad yourself." You emit a nervous laugh. Who knew re-first dates were anxiety filled. You two stayed still at the door. Eyes unashamedly raking the other. It would have lasted longer had it not been for Chad, pushing the door open wider, revealing himself to Ethan, and leaning against it. Hand touching the top of it. Ethan fell back into a timid state as he greeted Chad with a nod of his chin. Though Chad didn't reciprocate the gesture, making the whole interaction awkward. You turn to look back at him with an annoyed expression. You could practically feel his ego radiate from his body. The smug smirk on his face was one you wanted to slap off him.

"Not a scratch...On her head of her hair." Chad smiled, tilting his head. His tone was falsely sweet. "Not one. Can I see your pockets?" Chad stood up and gestured to Ethan's tucked hands. What the fuck?

"Chad!" You exclaim.

"What?" He defends. "No seriously what's in 'em?" Chad motioned a gimme gesture.

"Just my phone, keys, and wallet...some change." You gape at Ethan who took out his stuff to show.

"Ethan you don't need to-" You begin.

"Okay, now the back." Chad motioned for him to turn around. "Actually, can I pat you down...for a precaution ya know?" Chad goes to move out of the apartment, but you push him back inside, and quickly grab your purse.

"You're insane. We're leaving. Take care of our daughter, please." You press a kiss to his cheek hastily and practically drag Ethan down the hall. "Kay, bye love you." You call over your shoulder.

"Make him order something where he doesn't have to use a knife...Y/n, make him order soup or something!" He steps out of the apartment, shouting after you. "Go somewhere crowded and public!"

"Bye!" You and Ethan laugh as you ran away.

[niallerspayno]

Temporary Fix - Chapter Seven

Masterlist

You’re barely holding it together as you step out of Niall’s room, your shirt buttoned wrong and your shoes dangling from your fingers. The air in the hallway feels sharp against your flushed skin, a cold reminder of how out of control everything has become. You’re walking fast, head down, when you nearly crash into someone rounding the corner.

"Whoa there, tiger," Louis says, steadying you with a hand on your shoulder. His sharp blue eyes flick over you, narrowing at your disheveled appearance. "What’s got you in such a rush? Trouble in paradise?"

You sigh, tugging your shirt straight. "Not now, Lou."

But Louis being Louis, he doesn’t let it go. He steps in front of you, blocking your path with a knowing smirk. "Come on. You’ve got that post-shag glow and that ‘I’m-about-to-cry’ look. Spill."

Your jaw tightens as you glance around the hallway, but it’s late, and no one else seems to be around. Louis waits, arms crossed, one eyebrow quirked like he’s got all the time in the world. You know he’s not going to let you leave without talking.

"We talked," you start, but the words get stuck in your throat. "Well... we were supposed to talk."

Louis’s expression softens, his teasing demeanor giving way to concern. "And?"

"And we slept together instead," you admit, your voice low.

There’s a beat of silence before he whistles, low and long. "Of course, you did."

You groan, running a hand through your hair. "Louis—"

"I’m not judging," he says, holding up his hands. "I just don’t get it. You two are crazy about each other, but instead of, I don’t know, using your words like grown-ups, you keep tearing each other's clothes off. Not that I blame him, by the way. If I were him, I’d—"

"Louis!"

"Right, shutting up." He steps back, leaning casually against the wall. "But seriously, what’s stopping you two from sorting this out?"

You slump against the opposite wall, your legs feeling like they might give out. "We’re both scared," you admit, your voice barely above a whisper. "It’s easier to... distract ourselves than to face what this is. But it’s not working anymore."

"Yeah, I’d say breaking every rule you set was a pretty good indicator of that," Louis says, his tone light but his gaze steady. "So what now?"

You shrug, biting your lip. "I don’t know. I walked out. I couldn’t... I needed to think."

Louis nods, his playful smirk fading. "Look, I’m not great at the serious stuff, but I’ll say this: whatever you’re scared of, it’s not worse than losing him. Or yourself in the process."

His words hit harder than you expect, and you blink rapidly, trying to hold back tears. "Thanks, Lou."

"Anytime, love," he says, patting your shoulder as he starts to walk away. Then he pauses, glancing over his shoulder with a sly grin. "But seriously, keep it down next time. These walls are thin."

You groan, throwing a shoe in his direction as he ducks away, laughing. But despite yourself, his words linger, sinking in as you head back to your room, your heart heavier than ever.

...

Niall’s frustration builds as he paces around his hotel room, his hands running through his hair. The words he wanted to say to you keep circling back, each one sharper and more confusing than the last. After what happened, after everything he’s been trying to avoid, he knows he can’t keep running anymore.

His stomach churns at the thought of you walking away from him. Not again. I can't let that happen.

He grabs his jacket and heads out, determined to find you. He reaches the hallway and starts down toward your room, when he nearly bumps into Liam, who’s leaning casually against the wall, his arms crossed.

"Niall?" Liam’s voice is steady but curious, a subtle tension in his gaze. He’s been watching Niall since the rehearsal, and it’s clear something’s off.

"Niall, mate, where are you headed?" Liam asks, his tone gentle but pointed.

"I need to talk to her," Niall mutters, his voice rough. "I fucked up, Liam."

Liam raises an eyebrow. "I think that’s an understatement, don’t you?"

Niall grits his teeth. He knows Liam is trying to lighten the mood, but it’s not working. Not right now. "I just... I don’t know what I’m doing anymore. I pushed her away when I shouldn’t have, and now... now she’s probably walking away from me."

Liam’s expression shifts, and he uncrosses his arms, standing a little straighter. "What happened?"

Niall rubs his face, frustration evident in every line of his body. "We were supposed to talk. We’ve been dancing around it for so long, and then... I don’t know, Liam. We end up in bed again, and I just... I ran. She asked me about us, and I pulled back."

"You know you can’t keep doing this, right?" Liam says, his voice soft but firm. "You’re playing with fire, mate. And it’s not just about you anymore. It’s her, too."

Niall’s jaw tightens as he looks at Liam, fighting the urge to shut down. "I know. But I’m scared. Every time I try to talk to her about it, it just feels like I’ll ruin everything."

Liam sighs, stepping closer. "You’re already doing that by not talking. Look, I know you’ve got your demons—hell, we all do. But this isn’t about just you two anymore. You can’t hide from it. She’s in this, too. And she deserves to know if you’re all in or not."

Niall’s chest tightens as the weight of Liam’s words hits him. He looks away, running a hand through his hair again. "I care about her, Liam. I really do. But I don’t know if I can give her what she needs."

Liam gives him a small, understanding smile. "You won’t know until you try. Don’t let your fear be the reason you lose her. This thing between you two... it’s bigger than just physical. But you have to talk about it. Honestly."

Niall looks up at him, swallowing hard. "You’re right."

Liam claps him on the shoulder. "You know where she is. Go talk to her, mate."

As Niall nods and turns to head down the hallway, Liam calls after him, voice steady. "Just remember—whatever happens, you can’t keep running from this. You can’t hide behind sex. It won’t fix anything in the long run."

Niall pauses, his heart pounding in his chest, before giving Liam a short nod. "Thanks, mate."

He walks away, determination in his steps. He knows Liam’s words are right. He can’t keep running from his feelings.

...

Niall doesn’t knock before entering your room. His hand is on the doorknob before his brain can even register that you might not want him there. His heart races as he steps into the space, the words he rehearsed on the way here tumbling out in a rush.

"Hey, we need to talk."

You’re sitting on the edge of the bed, your back to him. You’re calm, almost eerily so, and the sight of you makes his chest tighten. He knows something’s wrong—something he can’t avoid any longer.

You stand without turning to face him, your voice cool and collected, but there’s a tremor in it that betrays your resolve. "I think we’ve already done enough talking, Niall."

He steps toward you, his pulse quickening. "What do you mean?" His voice cracks with confusion, like he can’t even believe you’d say that. "We can figure this out. I—I want to fix things. I know I fucked up, but we don’t have to end this."

You swallow hard, the lump in your throat making it harder to speak. "We do have to end this, Niall. We’ve broken all the rules. We agreed—no feelings, no telling, no overnight stays, no drama. And we’ve crossed every line, all of them."

His eyes widen, and his breath catches in his throat. He steps toward you again, reaching for your hand, but you pull it away before he can touch you.

"You can’t be serious," he says, voice tight with panic. "I didn’t mean for any of this to happen. But I don’t want to lose you, not like this." His hand shakes as it hovers in the air, the silence between you two stretching, heavy and thick.

You finally turn to face him, and the look in your eyes makes his heart drop. You see the hurt in his, but it’s too late. "Niall," you start, voice soft but unwavering, "I’m not doing this anymore. You didn’t want to talk when we needed to. We kept pushing everything aside, pretending it wasn’t there. And now... now it’s too much. Too messy. I can’t do it."

"Please, don’t say that." His voice is desperate now, his entire body trembling as he steps closer to you, his voice cracking. "I don’t want to lose you. I didn’t mean to pull away. I just... I’m scared. You think I don’t care? I—"

"You’re not the only one who’s scared," you cut him off, your throat tightening. "I am, too. But this... whatever this was, it’s not healthy for either of us anymore. I’m sorry, but I can’t keep pretending we’re fine when everything’s falling apart. I’m breaking my own heart here, but it’s the right thing to do."

He’s silent for a moment, looking at you like you’ve just ripped the floor out from under him. His mouth opens, but no words come. His eyes dart between yours, like he’s hoping you’ll change your mind, that you’ll tell him it’s not too late.

"Please don’t do this," he pleads, his voice softer now, a raw edge in it that you’ve never heard before. "We can fix it. We can make this work. I swear to you, I’ll do whatever it takes."

You shake your head slowly, your chest tight with the weight of this decision. "We can’t make it work, Niall. Not like this. Not when we can’t even talk to each other properly without running to the bed. It’s not healthy. It’s not fair to either of us."

Tears sting your eyes, but you blink them away, determined to stay strong. "This... this has to end now. I’m sorry. I’m sorry it wasn’t what we thought it could be, but it’s over."

For a long moment, there’s only silence, heavy and suffocating, before Niall finally speaks again, his voice cracking. "You’re really going to end it? After everything?" His eyes search yours, like he’s still waiting for you to take it all back.

You nod, your voice barely a whisper. "Yes. It’s over, Niall."

His shoulders slump as if the weight of your words is too much to bear. He exhales sharply, a mixture of disbelief and hurt in his gaze. "I don’t know if I can just walk away from this." His hands clench at his sides, as if fighting the urge to reach for you again.

"I don’t want you to walk away," you say, your voice cracking as the truth of your own words hits. "But I can’t keep doing this. I need more than just the physical, Niall. I need someone who’s willing to face this with me, not run from it."

He stares at you for a long moment, and the pain in his eyes nearly breaks you. You feel a pang of regret, but your resolve stays firm. You won’t go back. Not this time. You can’t.

He takes a slow, shaky breath, and without another word, turns to leave. Before he gets to the door, he stops. "I’m sorry," he whispers, his voice hoarse. "I didn’t mean to hurt you."

You swallow hard, nodding once, but you don’t respond. You can’t. There’s nothing left to say.

And with that, he walks out. Leaving you alone.

Next chapter

[alex31624]

Duck Comic Reading Club Week 23: Paperinik New Adventures: Absolute Zero

This week review is on time. What a novelty. Have to say, when I found Urk was on this one, I got a bit scared, but it was actually a good one. Let's check it out.

We're in the space, the final frontier. A couple of astronauts are having a regular day (as regular as a day in deep space can be) when their computer alert them about a big anomaly.

I love all the spaceships this comic gives me.

The astronauts enter the ship, and I wonder if they ever watched Alien, because they were ambushed by something inside the abandoned ship.

This comic starts big.

Meanwhile on Earth...

Uno is telling the news about the missing astronauts, and PK has to prepare a team to save them; the first reclute is no other tham Urk.

The big duck is having a friendly chat with some extortionists, and here I want to do a pause. The amount of crime in Duckburg is ridiculous.

Ignore the space pirates and evil aliens, there are theme gangs, high-profile thieves, extortionist and what more. I get that PK has to fight someone, but damn, this place needs mayor Owlson.

Anyway, Urk beat most of those punks, and good old PK took care of the biggest. PK ask for Urk help, and he accepted.

That was funny.

One more duck joins the mission.

I would double check is really her. We had a lot of cases when Lyla is not really her.

Lyla presence triggers Urk's flashbacks, I think that's the best part of this issue. Looks like Urk was about to be granted the Champion Cup, but a lady warrior challenged him.

Back to the present, the group arrives to their destination, and whatever is in there knows it.

The look of the ship is amazing.

The team gear up, and Urk can't stop looking at Lyla. Who could blame him? Once again, the Lyla's aura reminds the warrior about that woman who face him.

But enough with the flashbacks, is time to work.

This is the good stuff.

Well, I get that a comic has a limited space to tell its story, so, I won't complain that there wasn't at least one more page of the group going through the ship.

What I'll complain is, why is the monster in the cover?

The design and its entrance, it was perfect. But the freakin robot is in the cover man, how many times are you gonna keep doing this?

PK excels in action, but it doesn't know how to work mystery.

Talking about action, the fight against the robot is great, full of chaos and destruction. That's why I'm here, and PK knows it.

After destroying the floor where they fight, the group escape to plan a new strategy. The found the computer and learned the truth, this was a Xerbian ship that was intercepted by the Evronians.

Anyway, time to round 2.

I love how they described what fear means to each of them.

After a fierce battle, PK traps the robot in a force field. Before leave, Lyla hack in the computer. And we have one more flashback.

Urk and Lyla went to rescue the astronauts, while PK went to destroy the ship antenna, that antenna was cutting the communication with Uno. And the timing was perfect, because the robot was about the beat PK into oblivion, but Uno burn it to a crisp.

Thanks to Lyla, we found out the robot was the security system of the ship. It didn't do a great job, have to say. The astronauts were saved and PK and Lyla celebrated.

But Urk is having one last flashback.

The lady warrior let Urk defeat her, in order to assure his future leadership. Urk bows to the strongest warrior. If you tell me that lady is going to become his wife, I would believe you. It has that vibe.

We end this issue with a strong and sad line.

Oh man, that hits.

Goddamn PK, you can't make me feel things for Urk. But that's exactly what he did. I didn't care about the guy, but those flashback were perfect to create sympathy; now I know who he was before, what he was destiny to, and who was by his side. And that last line was so powerful. It really makes you feel sorry for him.

Good work Urk.