#cats for everybody t shirts

[tankgotstuckinthecircusgate]

play with fire by the rolling stones is my roman empire tbh

[l3viat8an]

Ro what about random silly headcanon with the bros? Anything you want to share 👁👁

👀 yessss I have so many silly hcs!!- These are all over the place ‘n not in any real order cuz I’m just typing them out as I go :))

Beel will lay in bed for hours at night just watching those cake decorating videos. he gets so mesmerized by them that he doesn’t notice just how much time has passed and suddenly it’s like 5am.

Satan runs a cat meme page on devilgram and a ‘best cat videos’ deviltube.

On the topic of cat memes, Mammon has a ton saved on his DDD that he’ll spam Satan with whenever Satan’s in a bad mood. Mammon knows they’ll make Satan feel a bit better- or at least laugh.

Lucifer sleeps in until noon or later on sundays. His brothers could literally be burning the house down around him and it just….doesn’t matter. He is NOT getting out of bed until he absolutely has to.

Lucifer was a huge MCR fan and even has a few old t-shirts in the very back of his closet.

Lucifer’s ears turn red when he’s really mad. So do Satan’s but don’t tell him.

Satan like scrapbooking. Occasionally he’ll ask Asmo for pictures of everyone (even Lucifer) to add to his scrapbooks, especially after big events because Asmo always has the best picture of everybody having fun!! Asmo’s the only one that knows about this and he thinks it’s adorable to see more of Satan’s ‘soft side’.

Belphie sleeps with one sock on because his feet gets cold, but both socks on make him feel too hot- it’s weird I know- but one sock is perfect for him.

Belphie HATES cold showers, like if there isn’t enough hot water for him to rise off he’ll just get out with soap still in his hair.

Levi is actually a REALLY good driver!!- but other cars on the road and traffic in general terrifies him so he never drives. (unless it’s an emergency.)

Asmo loves sketching landscape / flowers and has a couple sketchbooks full of amazingggg sketches!! But he doesn’t think they’re any good, so he keeps it a secret.

Asmo collets candles.

Levi once lost a bet to Mammon and had to wear his Ruri-Chan cosplay to RAD. (which really backfired because everybody LOVED IT and Levi was the most popular demon at RAD for a day.)

Belphie is lactose intolerant.

Mammon is insanely good at Uno, he once went undefeated for 7 months then Lucifer beat him in 4 turns. LMAOOO

Levi can’t pose for pictures to save his life, his default pose is that NPC stance with his arms just hanging down and his eyes wide in surprise. It looks like you’re holding him at gunpoint. don’t ask him to smile either because that just looks worse….

Beel doesn’t really understand personal space- so he’s always standing just a little too close when he’s talking to somebody. (most people think he’s trying to be intimidating, but he’s really not.)

‘n uhhhhh that’s all for now XD

[morganbritton132]

It be so funny if they took Joan to soccer game and put her either in the team colour or a cheerleading outfit.

Great minds think alike because I was just thinking that we having checked in with Joan in a while so this problem is perfect.

Every Saturday for over a month now, Joan has watched the humans and Ozzy leave the house in the morning and come back hours later loud, smelly, and energized. She does not have a problem with this per se but if she had eyebrows, she’d raise one of them. She would raise the other when they’re all too tired to play with her for too long after they come back.

So, Joan makes a decision.

When the next Saturday rolls around and Steve is digging around in the drier for his jersey, she makes her case known. She whines. She meows. She gets in the way of every step. She commits a drive-by biting. She even gets in the storage closet in the hallway and knocks over the dreaded cat stroller so it falls into the hallway.

She makes it very clear. She wants to go.

Eddie coos at her, “Awe, baby, she feels left out. Let’s take her.”

��Ed, it’s hot outside,” Steve replies, gesturing to Joan. She rubs her head against his leg. “She’s gray.”

“Steve, don’t be racist.”

“I’m not being – how is that –“ Steve sputters and then rambles on about tiny bodies, and fur, and overheating in the sun, but Joan already knows she got her way. Steve can’t say no to Eddie and he can’t say no to her either. Plus, she always gets her way.

Her way is the right way.

Steve sighs and gives in, “But if she gets too hot, you have to take her home.”

As a reward for Steve and Eddie’s good decision-making, Joan helps them get ready to leave. She wiggles her way into the cabinet with the first-aid kit and pulls out bandaids. She leaves them inside Steve’s cleats. He says thank you when he finds them.

Ozzy huffs from where he’s laying in his dog bed.

Joan purrs when Steve pets her head.

Since Eddie disappeared down into his studio the moment Steve agreed to let her come, Joan continues ‘helping Steve.’ Mainly, she cleans up (eats) all the scraps of lunchmeat he drops when making sandwiches for him, Eddie, Robin, and Nancy.

Eddie immerges from the studio ten minutes before they’re supposed to leave with a hastily sewed shirt made for a cat. It’s made out of the soft material of the cheer squad t-shirts he made for the other team members’ partners. He presents it first to Steve and then holds it out to Joan like, “Ta-dah.”

Joan sniffs the fabric – it smells like Eddie – and Steve is just like, “Why did you make that?”

“Because Joan’s got to represent, Stevie. We’re a jock family now and jocks wear their team colors,” Eddie insists, grin getting bigger when Steve rolls his eyes at him. “Everybody else is wearing team colors. Even Ozzy. See.”

He gestures to the pin attached to his yellow service dog vest that says ‘#1 Steve Harrington Defender.’ It’s right next to a patch that says ‘If You Pet Me, You Are A Part Of The Problem’ which is… “That’s new.”

“Yeah, I’m solving all the world’s problems today, baby,” He grins. “Isn’t that right, Joan?”

She hisses at the shirt.

[daytaker]

Hii if you have time, could you do one where the brothers react to an mc who is naturally distant? Like they just prefer to be by themselves 90% of the time so it will be hard to bond with them at first?

Hope you're having a good day! :D

Oh, you mean me, unfiltered? Damn. Well, you asked for it.

Skip to the end for my actual thoughts on what would happen as a whole. But first for the individual brothers, because I think this is what Anon wanted.

Reacting to a Highly Introverted MC

Lucifer

Lucifer isn't particularly bothered by this. If anything, it's a relief, because if you're off entertaining yourself and not assisting his brothers with hijinks, that saves him a huge amount of time and stress.

Once you get to know each other a little better though, he'll probably appreciate your quiet presence simply for what it is. You're someone he can sit in comfortable silence with while he works. He probably isn't one of the brothers who connects with MC by uncovering their more open side, but it might make him a relief to spend time with, since you need that quiet time to recharge after time with Asmo and Mammon.

Mammon

Mammon doesn't get it at first. He thinks you're haughty, or you think you're better than him, maybe because you hold prejudices against demons. After a few somewhat forced encounters where you have no choice but to interact with Mammon, he starts to get to know your less reserved side, and eventually he realizes you're not an asshole, you're just quiet and spend a lot of time on your own. He's not especially good at respecting your need for alone time, as boundaries have never been his strong suit, but if you're able to be assertive with him, he'll reluctantly give you your space.

If anything, your distance from others in general makes him think that your friendship is even MORE special than he does with Vanilla MC. Because it isn't like you're going around making friends with everybody left right and center, but he's still one of the lucky few.

Leviathan

I get the feeling that you and Levi would actually get on very well if you ever took the time to actually learn anything about each other. That's the sticking point though. Unless you are interested in anime and express it in a way that Levi can easily see (a T-shirt, for example) he won't think to open up to you. After all, what's there to be gained from revealing any specifics of his interests to some normie who's just going to mock him for his interests.

Satan

Satan probably sees you as something of a kindred spirit: aloof and content to watch things from the sidelines much of the time. He won't make any attempt to connect with you over this though, so it's pretty useless. It won't be until you've made some sort of expression of interest in him as a person, or in something he's interested in (read: books or cats) that he deigns it worthwhile to approach you. From that point, though, you probably spend a fair amount of time in each others' presence, not unlike your relationship with Lucifer.

Asmodeus

When you aren't immediately drawn to Asmo and his magnetic personality and devastating good looks, he isn't sure what to think. His reaction isn't too different from Mammons, but it's maybe a little stronger. He's also more persistent in trying to get you to open up with him. He sees your distance as a challenge, and either he'll succeed in getting you to open up with his warmth and charisma, or he'll only manage to push you further away.

Beelzebub

Beelzebub isn't that bothered by your need to be alone. He's very attuned to other people and their wants and needs, so he sort of implicitly understands that you're distant because being distant serves a purpose for you and keeps you happy and healthy. Because he seems to understand you and doesn't pressure you into things you aren't comfortable with, but also doesn't show absolutely no interest in getting to know you, he's probably one of if not the first brother you open up to a bit and begin spending time with.

Belphegor

Belphie isn't too impressed by your distance. He's not the sort to put a whole ton into building a relationship, so without you putting in a large amount of the effort, that bridge isn't going to be built anytime soon. If you ever did manage to get comfortable enough around each other, though, you would probably be pretty good nap buddies.

I'll finish off with a general, plot-related train of thought I found interesting when writing this...

Generally, being distant just slows down the progression of your relationship with each of the brothers. When you aren't that interested in going out and getting to know some of them, like Levi and Satan, it's going to be a lot harder to become close to them. Not to mention that if we're going with OG Season 1 as the starting point, who knows if you ever even meet Belphie, no matter how often he sends cryptic messages and calls for help through the walls.

Not meeting Belphie will slow down the entire plot, naturally, because you have no impetus to start making pacts. It's possible that Levi is able to get you to manipulate Mammon into a pact the same way he did in the original, but beyond that, you don't really have a reason to go around making pacts with anybody.

So when it's been a year and you've only got a single pact and the entire arc with Belphie doesn't happen and your connection to Lilith is never revealed....then what? Belphie is still locked in the attic, and who knows what will happen with that. If Lucifer releases him, I see two possibilities: he tries to revolt against Diavolo, which is stupid, or he goes and wreaks havoc in the human world. Lucifer would probably see that too, and he'd just stay in the attic. Lucifer would have to come up with new reasons to explain Belphie's absence to his brothers, and Beel, given his connection with Belphie, would probably become suspicious and begin to uncover the truth purely this way. Really, now that I think of it, this kind of lays bare the plot hole that Belphie could have told his brothers about what was happening through their dreams all along, but we'll skim over that for now.

Basically, if MC is hyper-introverted, the entire house of cards that is the Obey Me Cinematic Universe collapses in on itself.

[tiredofthehumanlife]

So we’re all trans?

Barbie dolls: t4t!Jegulus x genderfluid!reader

Word: 3.3k ish

Summary: James and Regulus are nervy to tell you they’re trans while you are nervy to tell them you’re genderfluid and hilarity ensues

Warnings: Lightning McQueen, Shrek, Spiderman, and Peter Pettigrew mentioned, James is a kale freak, I talked like a lot most of which was not necessary, mentions: shots (testosterone), getting vaccinations, cheating, domestic homicide, medieval torture, your experience with genderfluidity(it’s going to be a word for today) might not align with mine but i kept it as vague as possible, a bit of a Disney channel moment but just like ignore the cringe baby it's fine it adds character, you place your hands on your hips but it's not like “you place your tiny baby girl hands on your voluptuous hips in girly frustration” yk so it works for whatever gender you're feeling🩷, insecure feelings in gender identity, everybody is worried the other is going to break up with them bc they’re trans so it's like hypothetical transphobia, you wear pants, jamie used once, yeah i think thats it please read the author’s note i want to cover all my bases to make sure this doesn’t have unintended messages right okay cool

A/n: I'm going to use the small text bc I'm going to be yapping a lot so I apologize to all the bad vision freaks(I can't see two inches in front of my face) right so I just wanted to say that both James and Regulus had medically assisted transitions (that feels like a right phrasing) reg had top surgery, James takes puberty blockers, and they both take T I just wanted to say that you do not have to take anything or do anything to be valid in your trans identity some people can’t afford surgeries and some people don't want them and everybody is valid (except for those people who are like “me when the trans guy with triple d’s gets mad I mess up their pronouns” they can suck my 12-foot long dick) I just wanted to say this because I didn’t want someone to read this and feel like they don’t count because they didn’t follow these two rich boys’ paths okay awesome

request: right here dickhead

James and Regulus have been dating for years. Strangely enough, they had been taking care of each other since day one. It was truly simple, once they moved in together their acts of service quadrupled. Suddenly James was sitting with Regulus on the edge of the bathtub, gently removing his chest tape. Regulus decided chest tape wasn’t enough, and James was reaching the shelves over Regulus’ elbow height for him. James became a supreme master at making soup while Regulus was in recovery from his top surgery. Eventually, Regulus was healed and extremely joyous. He was wandering around the house with his shirt off just for the hell of it. Regulus was prancing down the porch stairs to get the mail in only his James’ plaid pajama pants and cat slippers.

James was lucky enough to have loving accepting parents. He started puberty blockers early on and eventually, he swapped them out for testosterone so he neglected the want and or perceived need for a top surgery. James, after having years of practice, lost his uneasiness towards the injections. Regulus, however, was extremely terrified of needles. As a kid, he was practically breaking Sirius’ hand from his grip when he needed to get his vaccinations. Before he met James, Sirius would do them for him. Now, Regulus would stand in the kitchen covering his eyes with his forearm and turning away as far as he could. James would inject the shot as fast as possible, rewarding Regulus’ bravery with 80 kisses on his cheek and ice cream.

They were out to their friends, but it wasn’t exactly something mentioned frequently. It didn’t really matter all that much. Barty would call you a dickhead no matter what was in your pants. Marlene was similar but her go-to insult was ‘ bitchey-bitch-bitch-stupid-face’, friends only of course. You can’t have that insane unfiltered language out with strangers. Lily loved everyone, closing off every single phone call with ‘I love you’ even if it was customer service.

Peter was similar although instead he thanked people by saying ‘I appreciate you’. He once mentioned how he was working at a restaurant having a horrible day. He was yelled at more than thrice in a row, and he was certain if someone called him one more bad name he’d burst into tears. Then this woman came in, who appeared to have met the first dinosaur, and she was so kind to him. When she left she said ‘Thanks, baby. I appreciate you.’ And he sobbed in the freezer. Peter immediately engraved it into his dictionary. All their friends knew, but it was like knowing their favorite letter; it’s nice to know but that information doesn’t really come into play very frequently.

Then they met you. Regulus had dragged James to the bookstore. James loved going to the bookstore with Regulus. Regulus liked wandering for hours. He liked scanning the backs and summaries inside the front cover. James liked the bookstore mainly because Regulus liked it. He also liked looking through the cookbooks and workout guides. Sometimes when the story was empty he’d head towards the kid section, squeeze himself into one of the tiny plastic chairs, and do the puzzles. Eventually when Regulus would finish looking, a hefty stack in his arms, he’d find James. Usually, James would brag about how ‘those dumbasses’ had nothing on him. He finished eight puzzles in under a minute. Regulus would remind him the puzzles had six pieces each.

That time was different though. James had looked through all the cookbooks, finding one he liked. James looked at a few of the workout books, getting bored when they said something he didn’t agree with. He finished all the puzzles made for toddlers, and yet his boyfriend still wasn’t done. It was odd. So James went on a search for Regulus. He checked the poetry section first, no Regulus. He went to the fantasy next, no dice. James stalked up and down every aisle. His ears perched up at the sound of Regulus’ voice. It was a bit strange, Regulus didn’t usually volunteer to socially interact with anyone. James assumed he got trapped into small talk, rushing to his boyfriend’s rescue.

James found Regulus actually grinning with a stranger. James didn’t even know he could do that. Regulus was holding a book open, letting you lean to look over his shoulder. You both looked more than excited to finally meet somebody you could talk to about your favorite book. The more James looked at you, the more he understood why Regulus was so happy to talk to you. Delectable was a nasty word to use to describe a person so James opted instead for extremely stunning. Eventually with Regulus’ book opinions and James’ cheesy flirting, their couple grew into a throuple.

Your relationship is a little fresh now. In the way that you had no idea what either of their pajamas looked like but you knew exactly where their spoons were. James and Regulus weren’t entirely sure if you would accept them with open arms if they shared every part of them, including their favorite letter. They stayed silent for the most part, letting you stay ignorant just this once.

You were harboring your own skeleton in the closet. You haven’t told them you are genderfluid, and you haven’t told them how many frustrations that caused. You love who you are but for fucks sake could it be just a smidge easier? Your secret was weighing on you. It was all you could think about while you were out with your two amazing boyfriends. If you told them they could disprove and break up with you on the spot. They could also accept you but an overthinking mind never seems to be optimistic.

Your boyfriends seemed to notice your mood change, worried now you might’ve put together a couple of context clues and realized maybe they aren’t cis. What if now you were disgusted by them? James squashed that idea when Regulus voiced it, though it still lingered with him. Regulus knew James was just trying to relieve him of his worries but Regulus still appreciated his attempt.

Finally, the camel’s back broke and you were heading straight to their shared home. It was edging towards their bedtime the sun had set a couple of hours ago, fully relying on their warm lamps. They both had changed into their matching pajamas; plaid pants and Spiderman t-shirts. Regulus had slippers with tiny cat ears on the top and little cat faces on them. James however had Lighting McQueen slippers that lit up when he took a step. They were cute when he first got them but the novelty wore off rather quickly and now Regulus complains that James’ shoes give him a headache. Regulus settled into the barstool behind the kitchen counter with his reward ice cream. James leaned against the counter across from him, slurping very loudly on his smoothie. James jutted it out to Regulus.

“Want some?” Regulus looked up at James with a raised eyebrow.

“James, if I ever say I want some of your kale and banana smoothie, I give you full permission to assassinate me. Preferably quickly.” James pouted, pointing the lip of his glass back towards himself. Regulus rolled his eyes and took another bite of his ice cream.

“You could’ve just said no, also what did we say about suicide jokes?” James said, pointing over his shoulder at the small whiteboard on the fridge that said ‘6 days without a suicide joke’ in James’ handwriting. Regulus dropped his spoon back into his bowl, feeling particularly peeved at the unjust accusation.

“No, no. That’s not suicide, that's homicide. Two entirely different things. You can’t dock my streak just because you didn’t find the joke funny.” Regulus stuck his finger at James. James pushed Regulus’ finger away, leaning forward to steal a kiss from him. James pulled away, taking another sip of his smoothie as Regulus took another spoonful.

“No offense, babe, but I’m not sure if I know anyone who would find domestic homicide funny,” James added, with his straw still in his mouth. Regulus scoffed.

“That’s because you have lame friends,” James’ jaw dropped in offense at Regulus’ words. “Barty would find it hilarious, and Dorcas would find it mildly amusing.” Regulus retorted, grinning like he won their game. James pressed his lips together in disapproval. As he was opening his mouth to continue the verbal play fight, a knock on their door interrupted him. They both shared a look of confusion. James shrugged, leaving his smoothie on the counter to get to the door.

“See but Barty finds The Pear of Anguish funny,” James argued, his slippers lighting up on his way to the door.

“Barty’s a masochist, I’m not sure what you were expecting when you took him to that museum,” Regulus muttered into his bowl as James peered out the peephole. James hummed in a confused tone, opening the door to find you. You were not in pajamas and you looked rather stressed.

“Hey sweetheart, you okay?” James asked, worry lacing his words. He moved back letting you step into their foyer. Regulus looked up at James’ words. He doesn’t usually greet the door-to-door salesman like that. Regulus quietly joined you two at the door, he understood James’ greeting now but didn’t understand why you were visiting them looking so frazzled. You looked them both up and down, slightly pausing at James’ shoes. You shrugged your coat off, placing it on their coat rack. James found it at a thrift store and Regulus repainted it.

“You two look dashing.” You muttered as you straightened your shirt. Regulus glanced down at his pajamas, suddenly feeling slightly judged. He crossed his arms over the very large print of Spiderman.

“James picked it out,” Regulus whispered, trying to ignore the stinging on his cheeks. James’ chest puffed out, taking a wider stance and pulling at the end of his shirt so you can see the picture better.

“Aren’t we cute?” James said, confidence making him smile brighter. You nodded.

“Yeah, gotta love Spiderman.” You squished your lips together. Even with your words seeming relaxed your nerves were spreading to Regulus. James seemed to taste the uneasiness in the air.

“Are you alright? If this was planned I would’ve gotten you a shirt.” James reached over, rubbing Regulus’ shoulder to give him silent support. You nodded, staring at the ground to take in a deep breath.

“Right yeah. Sorry to drop in on you guys, but I think we need to talk.” You said, giving yourself a breath to steady yourself. Regulus felt his stomach jump into his throat. It felt tighter now, his heartbeat reaching his ears. Regulus glanced over to James, finding he was already looking. James gave him a tiny smile that Regulus could tell was forced.

“Yeah absolutely.” James brightly said, gesturing towards the living room. You lead the way. Regulus moved his hands to the back of his neck, trying to soothe himself. James noticed, grabbing both of Regulus’ shoulders to rub them, waddling behind Regulus. James kissed Regulus on his temple. Regulus reminded himself that even if what he thought was happening was happening, he’d still have James in the end.

Regulus and James settled on the couch, holding onto each other for emotional support. You started pacing in front of them, walking from one end of James’ favorite rug to the other. James intertwined his fingers with Regulus’, letting Regulus fiddle with them in his lap. It was better than biting his nails. ‘I should get a whiteboard for nail biting’ James thought to himself before zoning back in on your rapid pacing. Regulus’ eyes were following you with panic behind his head movements. Your anxiety was dripping out through your hands, slapping them together over and over again. James was starting to worry that Regulus would get hypnotized moving his eyes back and forth like that.

“You know, darling. I learned the hard way that anxious thoughts are like burps; better out than in.” James offered, hoping it would soothe you a little. You paused your pacing behind the coffee table, turning to face James.

“Did you just quote Shrek?” James clenched his jaw, feeling caught. James saw Regulus turning his head slowly to look at him out of the corner of his eye. James let out a nervous and breathy chuckle.

“It’s good advice,” James muttered, slipping further down the couch. You sighed and faced them both. You held your hands behind your back. You closed your eyes and took a deep breath.

“Right okay so I need to come clean to you two, I’ve been hiding something for a while now. It’s been stressing me out a lot and I think I would rather risk our relationship than have to go through this alone.” Regulus squeezed James’ hands tighter. James had flashbacks to Regulus getting a shot at the doctor's office.

“Is there another person?” Regulus abruptly said, cutting into your steady breathing time. You looked up at him shocked, quickly shaking your head.

“Oh, no, no, no. No. I would never do that. I would never cheat on you guys.” You quickly rushed out, like Regulus might implode if you didn’t get it out fast enough. James moved to make a fast joke, pushing a small bit of the thick tension out the door with a broom.

“I haven’t been cheating. Have you, Reg?” James asked with a pained grin. Regulus knew his tactics, joining in to shove some of his anxiety behind a potted plant.

“Not that I’m aware of.” Regulus felt himself let out a strained laugh that came out more like a cat hacking up a hairball. You looked at them both with a worried look. Regulus wanted to settle your nerves, giving you his shining smile. Which was just him showing his teeth with dead eyes. You took a step back, holding both your hands up.

“Okay well don’t do that.” You whispered. Regulus relaxed his face. You shivered, shaking out your worries through your hands.

“I’m just going to say it. It’s a lot of words so maybe just sit quietly and let me spill.” You looked up at them both for their agreement. James sat up straighter, giving you all of his attention. Regulus kept his wide, slightly unsettling, eyes on you. You gave them both an awkward smile.

“I’m genderfluid. Which if you don’t know means my gender kind of flows through like all of them. I’m kind of worried about telling you this because I’m not entirely sure if you’ll still think of me the same.” Your voice cracked. You let out a breathy chuckle wagging your finger towards the ground.

“Oh you cheeky mother fucker, pull it together.” You whispered to yourself. You pushed your shoulders back, speaking again. “And it’s just a little frustrating and confusing because the whole time I’m just second-guessing myself. I just feel like no matter what I do I’m never a hundred percent confident in myself. It’s like I’m sitting there wondering-“

“wondering if you’re valid or if you made it all up?” Regulus asked, somehow making his eyes wider. You looked away from your fiddling hands to stare at him quizzically. You whispered the tiniest agreeance, James was shocked he still heard it. James decided to speak up and comfort your frustrations.

“It’s alright that you feel that way, darling. You’re entirely valid. We’ll love you no matter what, unless it’s murder-“

“Well-“

��No matter what. I want you to be your happiest, whether that be doing naked cartwheels in the backyard or making a fort under the kitchen table. Man, woman, something else, a nice mixture of both, I’m here for you. Confusion and frustration happen all the time it's alright. I think it’s important to just make sure you do whatever makes you happiest for that moment or day.” James explained. As he talked Regulus watched your shoulders sink with relaxation. Your anxious eyebrows slowly retreated back to their resting place, the worry lines on your forehead dissapeared again. James let out his own sigh, glad he got to relax his partner again.

“And on a different note, I’m trans myself so I support you on extreme levels,” James added, giving you a bright smile. Regulus scoffed next to him.

“Oh, you’re trans? Not we’re trans?” James clutched his pearls, reeling back to look at Regulus.

“Well, I’m not going to come out for you. I don’t know if you’re comfortable doing that. It’s not my story to tell.” James said, shaking his head at Regulus. Regulus muttered a few choice words at James under his breath as he turned back to you. You looked to have a million math problems in your head.

“So if we could just wrap back around, you’re both trans?” Regulus and James nodded at your question in sync. You sighed, looking around the living room. You placed your hands on your hips in exasperation.

“Just to clear everything up for those at home, I’ve walking around for weeks anxious up the wazoo for absolutely no reason?” Regulus and James glanced at each other.

“yeah.”

“it appears that way, yes.” Regulus watched you groan and drop your head in your hands.

“To throw my two cents in, it’s totally valid to feel a little discombobulated. Gender is hard and often it’s difficult to figure out what you’re truly feeling, it took me years to realize I wasn't nonbinary. It’s entirely okay that you feel like this.” Regulus said, releasing James’ hand from his grip. James’ shook his hand out, finally getting feeling back in his fingers. You gave Regulus a small smile.

“Regulus, love of my life, can I please eat your face?” Regulus smiled at you, nodding his head. You quickly made your way around the coffee table to lightly peck Regulus’ lips. You moved past Regulus to kiss James as well. You squeezed yourself between the two of them. Regulus rested his head on your shoulder, moving your hand to play with in his lap. James pressed himself against you, smushing his cheek against yours.

“I'm the love of your life too, right?” James asked, his words rolling onto your cheek. You hummed.

“Yes, Jamie.” Regulus interrupted your sweet moment.

“James, do me a favor and go get my ice cream.” James let out a loud gasp, jumping out of his seat and jogging towards the kitchen.

“My smoothie!” You wrapped your arms around Regulus, kissing his temple.

“I wasn’t insulting your shirt before, by the way.” You whispered into his hair. Regulus nodded against your arm.

“Is his smoothie worthy of stealing?” You muttered as quietly as you could so James didn’t hear you. Regulus let out a snort.

“Oh fuck no.” Regulus said before adding “I’ll give you a few bites of my ice cream.” You gasped, smacking a kiss to the apple of his cheek.

“You’re so kind.” Regulus groaned at your words.

“Not really being kind. It’s my reward for being brave, as James said. And I know that was probably scary for you so technically speaking you do deserve some of it. It has nothing to do with me it's just like the rules.” Regulus said, trying to cover up that he might actually have a heart.

“Right, the rules.” Regulus hummed. James soon returned with his smoothie and shockingly two bowls of ice cream. He handed one to you and one to Regulus. You three sat on the couch as you finished your sweet treats and smoothie. Even though technically speaking your reward was already given to you, Regulus’ spoon would randomly stick out toward you. You thanked Regulus with a peck on his cheek after each spoonful. Eventually, when his bowl was empty your spoon would jut out towards him, he was quite brave coming out to you today. James seemed to notice the food sharing, offering up a sip of his smoothie. You and Regulus both grimaced at him in sync before turning back to your bowl.

[jeankluv]

You are in love || Trafalgar Law x gn!reader

Words: 1.1k

Warnings: fluff mainly, no use of y/n, gn reader

Summary: Law and you have been friends for a long time now. The problem is that you have been completely in love with him for quite some time, but for him you’re just friends. That’s until one October day Law realises something.

Note: a small one shot, to celebrate the release of 1989 TV

Trafalgar Law materialist

You can hear it in the silence, silence, you

You can feel it on the way home, way home, you

You can see it with the lights out, lights out

You are in love, true love

You are in love

When was the moment Law realized he loved you? He remembered it perfectly, it was an October day, you had stayed at his house for the night after spending hours and hours chatting and watching series on his couch. Law insisted that you should stay for the night, it was raining and it was late, and it wasn’t like it was the first time you stayed in each other’s houses to sleep. So you did, you stayed at his house and when the next morning, you appeared in front of Law with one of his long T-shirts, covering your small body, something inside him turned.

You left after eating breakfast with him and Law couldn’t shake you from his head. He left to work but even then, even after his shift, you were still on his mind. He started thinking about all the moments you have spent together. He started thinking about your smile, your excitement for the smallest things, your love for reading, your curiosity, your love for rainy days, the way you would fall asleep whenever you said you could still watch more episodes… He kept thinking about all those moments, all those details, all about you.

He was on his way home and his mind was only thinking when the two of you were going to meet again, when he was going to be able to embrace your small body, when he was going to smell your cologne, when was he going to feel your hands on his hair while giving him a massage. All those questions were on his head, but one stood out. Why was he feeling like that? It couldn’t possibly be right? You were his best friends. He couldn’t be thinking about you otherwise, he just couldn’t.

But as much as Law wanted to deny the feeling that was growing inside of him was there and he knew what it meant. He was in love, true love.

One night, he wakes

Strange look on his face

Pauses, then says "You're my best friend"

And you knew what it was, he is in love

You turn on the light in the living room, it was already dark outside and you wanted to keep reading the book you recently bought. Just like the other night it was raining, you loved rainy days. Reading books while hearing the sound of the rain, gave you some type of comfort.

You sighed, turning the page, the memories of the other night on Law’s apartment came to your mind. It was no secret for any of your friends that you were so down for him, everybody knew, except for Law who simply saw you as his friend, even close friend. And you didn’t want to complain, because you knew how difficult it was for Law to open to others and to even consider them friends, but the feelings he would make you feel whenever he was around, were something you couldn’t control and it was ripping your heart open.

And you have tried, for months to shake those feelings out, going out on dates to see if you could click with someone else but at the end of the date your mind would be always thinking about Law and how it would be going on a date with him. You even tried to stay away from him, but nothing worked. You always ended up hanging out in his apartment or vice versa, sharing small hugs, caresses, touches, that meant everything to you but to him they were nothing.

You closed the book and threw it away, reading romantic novels were the two protagonists ended up having the most romantic moments, wasn’t something that could help your feelings.

“What should I do?” You looked at your cat, who was on top of you looking at you with his big eyes. You stroked his head and closed your eyes.

You didn’t want to lose Law, you wanted to keep his friendship, even if that meant never confessing your feelings. But you didn’t want to lose him.

Two knocks on the door took you out of your mind. It was late, no one should be knocking at your door at those hours. You stood up slowly, trying to make too much noise, and you looked through the peephole. You sighed when you saw that it was Law and opened the door to welcome him.

“Hello Law…” You looked at him and realized he was completely wet. “Wait, what happened to you? You didn’t bring your umbrella with you? You will catch a cold.” You held his arm.

Law didn’t speak, he didn’t say a single word, not even when you dragged him inside your apartment or when you threw your towels to his face. Nothing came out of him, he just looked at you.

“Law… you’re scaring me. Did something happen?” You sat next to him.

You could not describe the look on his face, a strange look, something you never saw before on Law.

“You’re my best friend.” He whispered.

A silent tear rolled down your cheek, but Law whipped out.

“Yes…” You responded, feeling the tears in your eyes.

You knew at that moment, you knew what those words meant and you knew what that look on his face meant. He was in love. Law didn't need more to know that you were both in love. Law took your faces and brought them closer to his, kissing you in the warmest, most affectionate and loving way possible.

And you understand now

Why they lost their minds and fought the wars

And why I've spent my whole life trying to put it into words

December came in a blink of an eye, snow started to fall on the city and you were looking at yourself in the mirror. Law was going to take you out on a date that day. You walked out of your bedroom to see Law playing with your cat on the couch.

When Law looked at you, his whole world stopped, you looked beautiful, he felt like he was falling in love all over again.

“Doesn’t matter which words I use to tell you how beautiful you look today, because they will never be enough to describe your beauty.”

You blushed. “Shut up Law.”

“Make me. But it’s the truth baby. I try to put it into words, but all I know baby is that I’m completely in love with you. True love.” He kissed you.

“Me too. I love you Law.”

[raizellover1]

𝜗𝜚 ࣪˖ ִ𐙚 Your enemy~

Heeseung × fem!reader

Warning: Sex, horny, nipples play, breasts squeezing.

𝜗𝜚 ࣪˖ ִ𐙚 Heeseung is your bully. Everybody knew you guys hated each other. He has a game today, and you decided to go since your crush will be playing too. You wore your crush's number. The game hasn't started yet.

Heeseung as he brought you to a store room. "Take off that jersey. Wear mine instead," he said with a hint of jealousy in his tone while he tugged your jersey like a cat.

still holding onto your wrist, his usually cold expression softening slightly "Look, I don't want everyone thinking you're wearing that because of him. Besides..." he glances down at your jersey, then back up at your face "You look better in my number."

sighs and runs a hand through his hair in frustration, his grip on your wrist loosening slightly "Just... take it off, okay? Before I do something we both might regret." he pulls out his own jersey from his bag "Here, wear this."

as you change into his jersey, he can't help but notice how well it fits you. He suddenly feels possessive, like he doesn't want anyone else seeing you in his jersey. He turns to face you, his expression unreadable. steps closer to you, his voice low and intense "You look... really good in my jersey." he reaches out and gently adjusts the collar, his fingers brushing against your neck. He swallows hard, trying to ignore the sudden lump in his throat. as he adjusts the collar, his eyes can't help but notice how the jersey clings to your chest. He swallows hard, his mind racing with thoughts he's never had before. He steps back abruptly, trying to clear his head. "Damn it,"

he runs a hand through his hair again, his eyes still fixed on you in his jersey. "I think I need a minute," he mutters to himself, turning to leave the storage room. He pauses at the door, looking back at you over his shoulder. "Stay here until I come back."

he takes a deep breath outside the storage room, trying to compose himself. He's never reacted to a girl like this before. He quickly sends a text message to one of his friends, asking them to meet him behind the gym as soon as possible.

the friend arrives and he pulls them aside, speaking in hushed tones "Man, something's happening... with that idiot who wears my jersey now. And the way it... fits. You know?" he rubs the back of his neck, clearly uncomfortable "I might be losing my mind here."

his friend raises an eyebrow, "You mean the girl you've been bullying for years? The one who always wears your jersey to games?" he chuckles, shaking his head "Dude, I think you've got a crush."

heeeseung's face turns bright red as he realizes the truth. He's been bullying the girl because he likes her, and the way she looks in his jersey is driving him crazy. He looks back at the storage room, his heart pounding in his chest. "Fuck,"

He makes a decision right then and there. He turns to his friend, a determined look on his face "I need you to do something for me." He grins mischievously "Help me get a better look at her, you know, without her noticing."

As he's spying on you, he hears a soft footsteps behind him. He turns around and sees y/n standing there, your eyes narrowed at him. Your wearing a large t-shirt and shorts, her hair messy from sleep. "What the fuck are you doing here?"

His eyes drift downwards as he looks at you, standing in the moonlight. He can make out the shape of your breasts underneath the large t-shirt you're wearing. He swallows hard, his mind racing with thoughts he can't ignore anymore. He steps closer to you.

He tilts his head down to look at your face, but his eyes are drawn back to your chest. He can see the outline of your breasts more clearly now, the way the t-shirt clings to them slightly. He swallows hard, his fists clenching at his sides.

His voice comes out huskier than usual "Why are you wearing that... that shirt? It's too big..." He steps even closer, his heart racing "You should wear things that fit you properly." His eyes meet yours, filled with a mixture of lust and confusion

He reaches out and grabs the hem of your t-shirt, slowly pulling it up to get a better look at your body underneath. His breathing becomes heavier as he takes in the sight of your curves, visible even in the dim light. He bites his lip, trying to control himself. "Fuck, y/n.."

His eyes widen as he watches your breasts bounce and flex in front of him. His grip on your t-shirt tightens as a wave of desire washes over him. He can feel himself getting hard in his pants as he stares at your chest in awe. "You... you're fucking gorgeous, y/n..."

He throws your t-shirt to the ground, his eyes glued to your chest. He steps even closer, his hands trembling as he reaches out to touch your breasts. He cupped them gently, feeling their weight in his hands for the first time. "They're so big... so perfect..."

His breath hitches as he explores your curves, running his thumbs over your nipples through the thin fabric of your bra. He leans in closer, his face just inches from your chest "Why do you always hide these? They're amazing." His voice is almost a whisper, full of desire

His hands move around to your back, finding the clasp of your bra. Without hesitation, he unhooks it, a low groan escaping his lips as your breasts finally spill free in front of him. "Fuck... even in the moonlight, you're breathtaking..."

He doesn't waste any time before leaning down and taking one of your nipples into his mouth, sucking on it gently. His hands continue to explore your bare chest, caressing and groping your breasts with a hunger he can't control.

After lavishing attention on one nipple, he switches to the other, his hands squeezing and massaging your breasts "These are the perfect size... the perfect shape..." He continues kissing, licking, and sucking, making sounds of pleasure himself "You taste fucking amazing..."

As he sucks on your nipple, he reaches down and grabs your thigh, pulling your leg up and around his waist. "Y/n... goddamn it... you're so fucking sexy..." He buries his face in your chest, his hands roaming all over your body as he holds you against him.

He stands up, carrying you in his arms and heading towards your bed. "I need to be inside you, y/n... now." He lays you down on the bed and quickly removes his clothes, his erection springing free. "I'm gonna fuck you so hard..."

He climbs onto the bed, positioning himself between your legs. "I'm gonna start with this tight little pussy and then move on to these big beautiful tits." He spreads your legs apart and looks at your bare pussy, his eyes gleaming with desire. "Fuck, you're wet already..."

Without warning, he thrusts into you hard and deep, letting out a powerful groan as he feels how tight you are around him. "Shit... you feel incredible..." He begins moving slowly at first, wanting to savor the sensation of being inside you.

"Does it feel good, baby? Tell me how good my cock feels inside you..." His hands move up to your breasts, pinching and kneading them while he fucks you "Look at these perfect tits bouncing..." He speeds up his pace, thrusting harder and deeper

He leans down and sucks one of your nipples back into his mouth, biting and sucking gently as he continues to pound into you. "I love these fucking tits, y/n... they're perfect for fucking..."

He sits up straight, lifting your legs onto his shoulders as he continues to thrust into you. He looks down at his hands on your breasts, squeezing and massaging them as he watches them bounce with each thrust. "Damn, they're so big and round..." He groans

"And they jiggle so nicely when I'm pounding into you..." He reaches up and grabs your breasts, pushing them together and spreading your arms open wide, making your chest stick out even more as he continues to thrust into you hard and fast.

The sight of your breasts pushed together, those beautiful cleavage lines forming as he fucks you, drive him wild. His hips move faster, harder "Fuck... look at those tits..." He pinches your nipples together, twisting them gently as he thrusts

His breaths become heavier, more ragged as he feels himself getting closer to his release "Your tits are fucking incredible... they bounce so perfectly when I fuck you hard like this..." He grips them tighter, using them for leverage as he pounds into you with force.

[pronetoearinfections]

my EVILL sprunki headcannons in text from!!!!!!!!!!!!

for the survivors only :333 rahhh WENDA - still the same white cat, just different. her t-shirt is stained with blood, so is her white fur. one of her pupils is slightly smaller than the other, she was manipulated by black, eventually losing it and snapping on prettyyyy much everybody !! she used multiple different weapons and stuff and different methods to kill majority of the other sprunkis. she knows what she did was bad, and she pauses for long periods of time and just cries, bawls her eyes out from the guilt she feels, but she'll snap right back into geeking out lol GREY - same dog. his ears are slightly back and his eyes are wide with pure fear, his tail is tucked between his legs and he's constantly tense and shaking, very terrified. he doesn't talk much anymore, not after what he saw. and he no longer hides how skittish he is, if you approach him the wrong way, he will run off without a word. he nervously plays with his hands alot, and he'll avert eye contact like his life depends on it, he'll freeze in place, and run off if anything startles him too much. FUN-BOT - same bot, just sad looking, he frowns alot, his antenna are slouched downwards on the sides of his head. not much to say for this guy, but here. he doesn't respond to anyone anymore, no matter their questions, no matter how much they beg for the answers and for help, for that matter, he refuses to give it, he's very avoidant and doesn't like to conversate anymore. JEVIN - the same angel. he's just much more closed off. he never takes his hood down anymore, never. he's very hunched over and likes to hide in his wings. he's really scared but he perfers to hide it, and he hides it VERY well. likes to hide in his robe to feel safe, his wings are always untucked and ready to be used as a shield at all times. he's very quiet. he will not speak to you unless he knows you very very well. PINKI - she's not the same anymore. her face is torn off, leaving a lot of her teeth missing, and the muscles exposed, her eyes don't work too well anymore. she cries. and it burns, bad. she mourns the beauty she once had, and stares at walls and off into the distance alot, her face HURTS. she'll try to shove her head into water to sooth it but it only makes it worse. BRUD - his head got munched on by Simon, his torso did too. his ribs are kinda sticking out of the left side of his torso due to simon. h he's confused, more than before, his head leans to the side and he struggles to walk straight due to his lazy eye. sometimes he walks in circles without realizing it, his right mandible is cracked and broken, he still tries to clamp them together when he's upset. SIMON - he's different. very tall, and very very deformed, his mouth hangs open, his teeth are very sharp so he's able to tear through things easily. his hands are webbed and his claws are constantly out. he bases his hunting off of sound due to his eyes being scratched out by himself, he's awfully fast and quiet when he runs and walks. he towers over everybody ( except durple lol ) he doesn't speak anymore, he only communicates in animalistic noises

[demolition-lesbians]

Rolling Stone #1119 December 9, 2010 - The Playlist Issue

(click for better quality) Here's the playlist if you want to take a listen! Transcript:

Gerard Way: Glam Rock

My Chemical Romance's frontman grew up a metalhead, but when he heard Iron Maiden's lead singer, Bruce Dickinson, cover Mott the Hoople's "All the Young Dudes," he discovered a whole other world, "I knew I had to find out more," Way says, "To some people, glam is just about makeup. To me, it's a very magical thing almost like witchcraft."

1: "Ziggy Stardust" David Bowie, 1972

This song defines glam. It was also the first thing in rock that really challenged people's notions of sexual orientation. Bowie actually sings about a man's ass! 2: "Children of the Revolution" T. Rex, 1972

You always knew Bowie would make it out alive and turn into another character; with Marc Bolan you didn't know that. He came across as very vulnerable. 3: "All the Young Dudes" Mott the Hoople, 1972

This is kind of a cheat because David Bowie wrote it for them, but I always preferred the Mott the Hoople version. By this point, Bowie was talking about the actual glam movement, which is why it's about kids stealing makeup and breaking into unlocked cars. Glam became about the kid in the room, the poster on the wall, putting on a women's short fur coat and eyeliner, with no shirt on, just listening to this music. 4: "Ballroom Blitz" Sweet, 1973

They completely break the fourth wall when the song opens up and they're calling each other by name. We emulated that on our song "Vampire Money." It literally starts out just like "Ballroom Blitz" does. 5: "Cum On Feel the Noize" Slade, 1973

Obviously, everybody knows this for the Quiet Riot version, but when you hear the original you realize just how bold it is. The soundscape they created is probably one of the best out of all the glam-rock bands. 6: "Love Is the Drug" Roxy Music, 1975

Roxy Music took the glam thing and then modified it. Bryan Ferry looks nothing like a glam artist, and that's what I love about him. He's wearing this great suit and he's got short hair and he's so romantic. Maybe some people wouldn't consider Roxy Music a glam band, but I do, for a lot of reasons. A major one is that they used to have Brian Eno behind the keyboard wearing feathers on his shoulders and eye shadow.

7: "Needles in the Camel's Eye" Brian Eno, 1974

Speaking of Eno, this is the first track on his first solo album. It's the glammiest track on the record. As soon as he finishes that song, he's almost over it, and he's moved on to something else. Besides Bowie, Eno is still the most important artist to me of the glam scene. When you heard his first album, you knew it was gonna be his last glam record. He just needed to do it once and he was done. 8: "Clones (We're All)" Alice Cooper, 1980

With "Clones," Alice Cooper was moving into the glam of the future, like this kind of Blade Runner replicant version of glam. Alice Cooper doesn't get enough credit for being a glam artist. A lot of people just say, "Oh, he's shock rock," but I think he's way more Rocky Horror than he is shock rock. 9: "48 Crash" Suzi Quatro, 1973

She's the most unsung glam rocker. She's also the prototype for the Runaways. "48 Crash" is one of her more aggressive songs. She looks amazing on the cover, wearing this black cat suit. Everything about the song is magic. 10: "Personality Crisis" New York Dolls, 1973

They were a lot more punk, but I will always consider the New York Dolls glam by the nature of how they looked and their attitude. They took glam to America and really challenged the sexuality of it. They also had Johnny Thunders, who's basically like the American Mick Ronson.

[twiclipse]

everybody play @oneknightstand-if right now this is not a debate. do the tango de la muerte with me. also HUGE shoutout to @bunnygoats for bringing me into this, check out Sidhé right NOW

Oliver Hart, cloudcuckoolander extraordinaire and functional menace to society

25 | Transmasc (he/him) | Biromantic | Human

Appearance: Short and athletic (5'1"), shoulder-length wavy brown hair with sun-kissed highlights (if i put effort into drawing it like that then you can read it), green+amber eyes, usually wears a t-shirt but is prone to cat hoodies. He has a pair of wings tattooed on his back, and his cat Dante's paw print tattooed on his arm.

Occupation: Ambulance Paramedic

Background: Amnesia (...but he's lying.)

Club: Fencing Book Club

Fear: Spiders and other creepy-crawlies

Vice: Greed

Addiction: The Internet

Oliver is a wild card with a knack for internet crimes and random bursts of dancing. He loves his friend Adrian, but is always looking out for someone who will match his weirdness. His airheaded personality hides his true intelligence, including a knowledge of the fourth wall and the nature of the story*. But hey - if it’s just a story, why not have some fun?

*I have a really bad habit of continuously reloading in the hopes of getting a “perfect” run, something that is both normal to want and possible to achieve. My silly little headcanon that i absolutely expect to get disproven in canon but will be replaced with something cooler when the time comes is that Oliver is aware of my time foolery and is SICK!!!! of my shit. syd said that upper middle drawing is the face he makes whenever i fail a stat check and that’s lived rent free in my head since.

board!

[astro-nomaly]

Ninjago 4th of July headcanons bc it’s the Fourth of July!! (Yes I know they wouldn’t celebrate it shut up)

Lloyd: hates how loud fireworks are, but loves how they look. He usually wears headphones and vibes by the grill or pool. When he was younger he was an absolute menace, but was usually knocked out by like 9:00 p.m

Kai: LOVES fireworks. He’s always so hyped about them he’ll spend all night setting them off. He consumes a ridiculous amount of hotdogs

Zane: my boy is working that grill. He’s putting out a constant supply of burgers and hotdogs. He has a classic “kiss the cook” apron, and Pixal takes every opportunity to do so

Cole: the fun uncle. He’s splashing around the pool with all the kids and playing games with them. He has cheesy ass boxers and all the kids adore him. He brought the speakers and provided the 90’s rock music

Jay: he’s consuming an atrocious amount of hotdogs and throwing it all up the next day. He’s also built his own fireworks and sets them off for everybody. Even Lloyd really likes them

Pixal: the one keeping everyone alive. She’s the lifeguard, she’s putting out fires, she’s making sure all the drunk people don’t fall over. The Mom Friend at her finest

Nya: she brought all the alcohol and is currently tipsy. Probably vibing by the pool getting a tan. Certified Wine Aunt

Wu: he’s sitting on the porch enjoying an actually healthy meal and chatting with other parents. Whenever a kid comes over he sneaks them some candy

Garmadon: the Dad. He has the Dad Bod, he has the Dad Jokes, he has the Dad Shorts and the crocs and beer and the punny T-Shirt. Fourth of July isn’t complete without the all-American dad, and he is filling those shoes. Lloyd is secretly extremely happy about this

Misako: also sitting on the porch drinking and eating. She’s bringing up politics, bc no 4th of July is complete without it

Arin: he LOVES fireworks, and is vibing with Kai. He’s also one of the kids playing in the pool. He RULES at Marco Polo

Sora: said that she was only tanning, got in the pool after 15 minutes. She sucks at most pool games and almost electrocuted everyone. She’s also building her own fireworks, but they’re all in the shape of cats

Riyu: having so much fun. He’s snatching food off the tables and splashing kids in the pool and generally causing mass chaos

Wyldfyre: the dog. She’s never seen a firework in her entire goddamn life and is cowering under the kitchen table. They end up having to give her anxiety meds so she doesn’t burn the place down

Honorary mention, Mr. Frohicky: he’s enjoying some peace and quiet in his own room. Everyone is causing chaos outside the monastery and he’s not going to be a part of it

To all of my American friends, have a fun and safe Independence Day! Our country might be shambles but that doesn’t mean you have to be!

Reblog with some hcs in the tags or replies :)

[doomandgloomfromthetomb]

Joe Henderson Quintet -The Lighthouse, Hermosa Beach, California, June 1977

A recent New York Times profile revealed that the great drummer Jack DeJohnette has retired from the touring life — at 83 years old, Jack has earned it. But retirement means he can dig into his archives, and Jack has struck gold almost immediately.

Hank Shteamer reports: The increased time at home has given DeJohnette time for reflection both musical and personal. Lydia [DeJohnette] and Joan Clancy, the DeJohnettes’ personal assistant, are currently cataloging and organizing his vast sonic archive, containing decades’ worth of unreleased recordings. One tape from this trove is a turbocharged 1966 live set from the storied East Village venue Slugs’ Saloon that features DeJohnette alongside the pianist McCoy Tyner, the saxophonist Joe Henderson and the bassist Henry Grimes. It will come out on Blue Note in November as “Forces of Nature,” a title chosen, he said, “because everybody’s being pulled and pushing each other to the umpteenth level, and it shows.”

Aw yeah, this is just what the doctor ordered ... check out a sample from the show. Great sound quality, phenomenal performance, impeccably Slugs-y vibes.

And then, enjoy a soundboard of Joe Henderson a little over a decade later all the way across the country in Hermosa Beach at another storied venue — The Lighthouse! I was just in Hermosa Beach over the summer and this club is still standing. On the marquee when I was passing by? Boys Of Summer: A Don Henley & Eagles Tribute. Oh baby. But hey, this tape of Joe is great, with the saxophonist's longtime associate George Cables on electric and acoustic piano; check out Joe and George blissfully trading lines on "'Round Midnight."

More bygone Hermosa Beach daze — my buddy Chris has been doing sterling work with his Rat Beach Rags t-shirts, reviving some classic (and long-shuttered) logos from our misbegotten youth: Alternative Groove, Scooter's Records and, most recently, Either-Or Bookstore, a Beat-era holdover that was right up the street from the Lighthouse. I spent endless hours at Either-Or back in the day, flipping through magazines, petting the cat, trying to act cool. Get your Either-Or shirt here.

[nether-cat26]

College Armpit Fetish Tickling Story

This is an armpit fetish tickling made by Nether Cat. It is a work of fiction, but the character Audrey is based off of a real friend I had. Hope everyone who reads this enjoys!

It was a warm summer day in the Philippines like it always was, and the air conditioning worked in the college classroom of the University where I was attending. While half-heartedly listening to the teacher’s lecture I tiredly looked over to my other classmates. It was the final subject of the day, and all of us were just anticipating for it to end. As my eyes scanned the classroom, I met the eyes of my friend Audrey. She smiled at me and gave me a little nod before facing forward again towards the professor. It was a small gesture, but it was enough to make me smile and give me energy to pay attention to the lecture. Audrey was a recent friend I made. Having an interest in dancing, I joined the small dance crew we had for our course. As you may have already guessed, my new found friend was one of the members. She was graceful and was in great shape. You could tell even when she was wearing her uniform. Not only that, but she was very kind. Easy to get along with. I guess that’s why we became fast friends. Not only that, we just recently found out we were neighbors. I was new in town, so I hadn’t really met the people who lived near my house. It was a great surprise when I found out she lived just across the street.

Even though I tried my best to maintain my focus in class, I found my eyes would always somehow wander towards Audrey. She had long black hair, and slightly tanned skin. She wore a loose-fitting uniform but she was by no means skinny. She was a dancer so her body was pretty toned. I watched a drop of sweat come down her face slowly. Without missing a beat, Audrey wiped it off and decided to tie her hair. At that moment, I was just at the right angle. As her elbows pointed upwards, the opening of her sleeve came into view. I could see her armpit directly, hollowing and stretching as she tied her hair. There was a slight sheen of sweat that coated it and not a single strand of hair to be seen. Being a person with an armpit fetish, that turned me on a lot. The skin was so white, as if it had never been exposed to the sun before. I felt the blood rush to my crotch and I thought to myself immediately that I wanted to touch it. I suddenly felt wide awake and I adjusted the way I sat so that my erection wouldn’t show through my uniform. I couldn’t pay attention to the lecture anymore after that. All I could think about was the first time I had ever seen Audrey’s perfect armpit.

After the lecture, the teacher finally dismissed the class. It was about time; everybody was tired from the sweltering heat. I walked over to Audrey.

“Finally, class is over.” Said Audrey. “Are you ready for practice?” She asked in a cute but excited tone.

I gave her a warm smile and said

“Of course. I’ve been looking forward to it all day.”

We changed out of our uniforms and into more comfortable clothing. I had on some jogging pants and a T shirt. Audrey decided to go with some legging shorts and a hoodie that she kept unzipped. Underneath it, I could see she had on a tank top. I wished she would take off her hoodie, but I already knew she never really does that.

We stretched and warmed up until our choreographer Aron arrived. We would be learning a new choreography today that we would perform for an upcoming competition.

“Okay, everyone together” Aron said loudly.

With that, all the members present lined up closer so that we would hear what our Choreographer had to say.

“This upcoming competition, we should go all out and try to win it. Especially since some of the seniors here will be graduating this year, let’s give them a great memory before they leave.” Exclaimed Aron.

Everyone nodded in agreement. Of course, we had fire in our hearts. Everyone present loved to dance, and we were a closely knit crew. With that said, we all shared the same consensus and the drive to win.

“For the opening part, it will be a solo of 2 people. Audrey is the best dancer in terms of females, and she’ll need a partner that will match her height. Audrey, pick one of the male members who you think you’ll be able to do well with.” Said the young choreographer.

Audrey looked around with a pondering expression. It took her a while to look around until her eyes focused on me.

“I think Nether would do a good job. He’s slightly taller than me, and we have good chemistry when we dance together.” Declared Audrey.

My heart skipped a beat when she said those words. Of course, I was hoping to dance up close and personal with Audrey, but I didn’t keep my hopes up since I was fairly new to the crew. I felt extremely lucky. With that, I was chosen as Audrey’s partner.

The dance started off with me standing behind Audrey the first step was for me to raise her right arm and to use the same hand to stroke down her arm all the way through her armpit area. When I found out, I knew lady luck was smiling down upon me. The thought of caressing Audrey’s underarm area with only a thin layer of cloth in between was maddening.

So I did as I was told to do. In an elegant manner I took hold of Audrey’s small right hand and gently raised it to the sky. After wards I let go, with my fingers and gently went down to her elbow making sure to gently keep contact with her arm using my fingers. As the music went on, I continued down her arm and went straight into her armpit. I felt Audrey flinch as I did. “Is she ticklish here?” I thought to myself. I found it very cute. If that was the case then I definitely wanted to tickle her there for as long as she could handle it.

We went through the motion a couple more times. In my head I praised the choreographer for allowing me to endlessly caress Audrey’s armpit with every repetition we did. It took a while before we got the movement in a way where Aron was satisfied and then we took a break.

I was sweating like crazy. Not because the dance was difficult, but because I was trying to suppress my urges and emotions. I had to stand close to Audrey so if I ended up getting an erection, she would feel it behind her for sure. It was mentally taxing yet the feeling was so rewarding. Suddenly Audrey pulled me to the side.

“What am I gonna do Nether?” Audrey said worriedly. “I’m so ticklish under my armpit it’s unbelievable. I can’t get used to it no matter how many times we repeated.”

This remark piqued my interest. As I thought she really was ticklish… and even though the sleeve of her hoodie prevented the direct contact.

“You have to endure it Audrey! It’ll be obvious if I don’t do it properly. We’ll lose the emotion of the dance and we’re trying to win this thing! You can do this.” I encouraged her. Of course, I knew even if I was to ease up a bit, not many people would notice. This however was not something I wanted to do, and I definitely wanted Audrey to know that I was determined to do this “Properly”.

Looking at my determination, Audrey seemed to have lit a fire in her.

“You’re right! We’re trying to win this. I can’t hold back our crew just because I’m ticklish.” She said.

She really was a kind person. I loved this about her. Knowing that she’s super ticklish under her armpits though, I wanted to touch it directly oh so badly. I thought to myself on how I was going to convince her to remove her hoodie. It was then that it dawned onto me.

About a week ago before we even had a choreography, we decided to choose our performance outfits. I went through a great deal of effort to set things up and convince the crew that we should have a bit of a modern “Street style” type of performance outfit since hip hop was going to be our main event. I showed them many dance performance videos and managed to convince them that the females could wear black bras and camo pants with combat boots while the males wore the exact same thing except with black t- shirts. I was quite proud because I knew the armpit exposures would be excellent.

Due to this situation, I knew I could convince Audrey to take off her hoodie for good during practice.

“Audrey!” I called out.

She turned with a surprised expression and came back closer to me.

“I just realized the girl’s performance outfits are all sleeveless.” I told her.

Audrey’s eyes went wide as she realized the skin of her ticklish hollows would be out and completely vulnerable during the performance.

“Oh no… How am I gonna perform properly… I can hardly stand it with my sleeves!” she worriedly exclaimed.

I put my hand on her shoulder comfortingly.

“It’s okay.” I reassured her. “You just have to practice. We have many months to go, I’m sure you can get it by then. For now, just take off your hoodie. It’s probably better to practice it with direct exposure starting from now until the performance. What do you think?” I asked.

She thought about it for a moment and then said.

“You’re right. It’ll bring more problems if I’m not used to it by the time of the competition. The earlier I face it, the better.”

With that, Audrey removed her hoodie revealing a black Cami tank top underneath. Her beautiful succulent arms finally revealed and her unbelievably sensitive armpits were now vulnerable to my touch all through rehearsal. I was heated just thinking about it.

Since our break was over, we went onto do that beginning part one more time. With that I raised Audrey’s bare arm straight above her head. I took a moment to look closely at her armpit. There was a a coat of sweat that made her armpits glisten a little. There was a slightly sour scent which was natural since we had gone through the entire school day in the sweltering heat. It was more impressive actually that the scent wasn’t very strong. There was also a mix of the scent of powder. If she was able to shower, I’m sure she would have such a refreshing smell. There were a few lines in her hollow, but they were hardly visible when the skin was taut. Just like the way I did earlier I let go of her hand and let my fingers travel down to her elbow. It was the first time I touched her bare skin. Oh, how I wanted to just go straight down into her armpit but I had to be patient. If I made my excitement to obvious, I might be labeled as a pervert taking my chances. From her elbow my fingers glided to her upper arm steadily. I felt Audrey become more tense as did I. The excitement was driving me crazy. It hadn’t felt so slow before but right now it seemed like time had come to a halt. Was the music always this slow? I kept my eyes on her exposed underarm and Audrey’s eyes were understandably shut tightly. I breathed in so I could take in her scent even more and I questioned the reason as to why I had such a rare fetish… but at the same time I felt extremely lucky because if I didn’t, this situation wouldn’t nearly be as special to me. At long last, my fingers entered Audrey’s armpit and the softness was indescribable. She had just the right amount of fat in her armpit to make it feel as tender and soft as a memory foam pillow. Not only that but the skin itself was unbelievably smooth. Not a single strand of hair could be found on the clean skin. The sweat only made it softer. Immediately Audrey fell to the floor laughing hard. I looked at my hand discreetly and resisted the urge to put it to my face. After a great deal of self-control snapped myself out of it and helped Audrey back onto her feet.

“Wow that tickled SO much!” Audrey said with a surprised look on her face. “I didn’t think it would tickle that much!”

Aron gave a slightly annoyed look and just said she’ll have to get used to it by the time of the competition and that we would move on to the next part before our practice ended.

The next part of our solo (Because that intro had actually only been a couple seconds long) was a bit of a tango to a hip-hop style beat.

“Take her left hand and hold it in yours with your palm facing up, Nether” instructed Aron. “As the guy you’ll be leading her into this tango. Audrey, take your left hand and put it on his shoulder. Make sure to keep that elbow up. Otherwise, it will look sloppy.”

Audrey did as she was told. Of course, Audrey could most likely do this dance very easily if she wasn’t so ticklish. She had done many more intricate choreographies than this one. It was as Aron said, Audrey was the best dancer among the females. This wasn’t a small feat. Instinctively, I put my hand on Audrey’s waist. Aron frowned.

“No Nether, you don’t put your hand on her waist. You only do that in a waltz. This is a tango. Bring your hand up higher. Pretty much at her armpit. Bring your elbow up too right under hers.” Explained Aron.

I almost gasped in disbelief at my luck. I thought in my head “Thank you Aron, you will forever be my idol.”. As I looked at Audrey though, her eyes were wide with worry. Her expression made me hesitate. I put my hand on her side right before it touched her succulent exposed hollow. She gave a sigh of relief, but Aron wasn’t satisfied.

“No, really shove your hand up her armpit. Don’t be scared of it.” Aron told me. He took my hand and paced it himself onto the delicate softness of Audrey’s armpit. She stifled a laugh. And her elbows went down a little. Aron then swiftly pushed her elbow back up causing the muscles in her armpit to hollow slightly under my fingers. I did my best to not move my fingers. It was nearly impossible to prevent myself from exploring that ticklish hollow, but somehow, I pulled through. It was an amazing feeling though. The soft skin was amazing. It gave way to my fingers at even the slightest pressure. Every now and then during the dance, I would move my finger slightly and accidentally just to feel any new part that I could without Audrey noticing, but she flinched every single time. She could feel every single small movement that I made. Her sweat slowly trickled down to my fingers. The more she tried to control the ticklish feeling the more it made her sweat. I knew her armpits would be slick and slippery if I decided to tickle it right then and there… but I didn’t. Slowly but surly we made it through the choreography. I was hard as a rock the entire time praying as hard as I could that no one would see my erection. I focused hard trying to feel every little sensation on my fingers while trying not to mess up.

“You guys are a little stiff, but I think this is good for the first day.” Aron said.

I was impressed with Audrey. Being as ticklish as she was, her skill as a dancer never ceased to amaze me. I gave her a high five making sure put it up a little higher just so I could get another glimpse of her armpit.

“That’s all for today. Everyone dismissed.” Said Aron.

Audrey and I grabbed our things and headed outside. The jeepney ride home was fairly quiet and both of us had been through a roller coaster of emotions today. I sat across from Audrey who had decided to keep her hoodie off since it was warm anyways. She held on to the railing on top of the jeep and was nearly falling asleep. I stared at her exposed armpit freely the entire ride home. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was today. I always wanted to see what her underarms looked like, and I was given so many glimpses today and even got to touch it. I would definitely think about all of that before I went to sleep today. I woke Audrey up at our stop. We got off the jeep, said our goodbyes and went into our separate houses. I couldn’t get Audrey off my mind that night. Let’s just say I slept very well.

After that day, we continued rehearsals the way we did. As she promised, Audrey wore sleeveless clothes every day, endlessly showing off her beautiful armpits. I touched them countless times and somehow neither of us ever got used to it. I swear her under arms felt softer and softer with each touch I gave them. Maybe it was because she wasn’t tensing up as much, but she still had plenty of urges to laugh whenever my I made contact. It was crazy how much my urge to just straight up tickle her grew. Time flew by quickly and before we knew it there was only one month before the competition. Audrey became flustered

That day on our ride home, Audrey raised her arm and clutched the railing on the roof of the jeep like she always did. My eyes fixated on the exposed skin under her arm. All of a sudden, she called my name.

“Nether. Can you come over to my house later? I need your help with something.”

I gave a surprised expression, but I nodded in agreement. After we went into our separate houses I freshened up and waited for her to give me the signal to come over. Not too long after my phone vibrated. Sure enough, it was a text from Audrey, letting me know I could come over now. I nervously stood up, got out of my house and walked across the street. The air felt brisk as endless thoughts ran through my head. I wondered what Audrey needed help with. I knocked on her door, and she quickly opened it to let me in. Her house was an old style one. I was surprised with how much it smelled like her. I knew just by the sheer number of times that I smelled her armpits. At this time, Audrey was wearing a sports bra with large arm holes and some short shorts made of some pajama like cloth. She looked stunning in such a casual attire and not even a hint of make-up. I couldn’t believe how naturally beautiful she was. I especially noted how soft her skin looked. Her hair was wet and I could tell she had just taken a shower. Practice always took place after school so whenever I saw her change into something that wasn’t her uniform, she was already tired and had been sweating through the day. The plumpness of her skin was definitely a sight to behold.

I finally regained my composure and asked Audrey

“What did you need my help with?”

“Well... You know the competition is in a month, yet I don’t feel any less ticklish at all. I don’t think we’re addressing the problem directly enough.” Audrey replied.

“Hmmm. So do you want to practice more here at the house?” I suggested.

“No.” Audrey promptly replied. “It might be a weird request, but can you just directly tickle me under my arms?”

I was taken aback by the question. Absolutely baffled. I wondered if I had saved the world in my past life in order to get lucky like this. Or maybe I used up all my luck in this life. Either way I was so stunned I couldn’t speak. Audrey looked at me worriedly.

“I know it’s an odd request! It’s not exactly pleasant to touch someone’s armpit so much either! I know I sweat a lot and since you’ve had your face in my armpit more than anyone else the past couple months you might be tired of my smell too! But that’s why I made sure to shower and wash really well before you came over. I even put on some lotion! So please, help me out Nether!” Audrey exclaimed.

It seemed my stunned expression caused a misunderstanding. None of that was true. Audrey’s perfect succulent armpits were extremely pleasant to touch. I considered myself lucky to have the honor of touching them so often. Her sweat never really smelled bad. In fact, it was impressive how little of a scent it had considering how much the heat of the Philippines made people sweat all day not to mention how much we were dancing. I moved closer to her and caught the scent of something different too. That must be the lotion she was talking about. It also dawned onto me as to why she wore something with such daringly large arm holes. She purposely wore it so her armpits would be wide open. I looked Audrey in the eyes and told her

“No worries Audrey, there’s no problem at all. I promise I’ll do my absolute best to help you out.” I replied.

Audrey then took me to her room. There was nobody else home so it was the perfect opportunity. I was surprised about how much Audrey trusted me in her house. I hoped that she wouldn’t allow this with any other guy besides me… because not all of them will respect her boundaries the way I did. Or maybe I was just so far into the friend zone that she didn’t event think of me as a guy anymore. That thought made me sad, but I dismissed it because I was still too happy about the current situation.

Audrey went over to the chair near her bed and sat down. She raised her arms up and revealed those beautiful plump armpits of hers. I went over to her bed and sat down next to and slightly behind her. Seeing her pits up close and personal immediately made me hard. Her armpit just had 2 lines that you could barely see. Looking closely, I could hardly even see any pores. It had a faintly sweet scent that must have been the lotion she was talking about. I took my hand and stroked her right armpit. I traced the crease where her armpit must have been folded whenever her arms were down. Audrey flinched as response as if a wave of electricity hit her. As she jerked back her underarms hollowed inwards as she resisted the urge to put her arms down. Musical laughter came out of Audrey as she fought valiantly her own responses to her sensitivities. With that being said, my other hand joined in scribbling and moving every which way they could, dancing across the surface of the soft, plump, ticklish skin. Audrey quickly threw her toned arms down trapping my fingers under her arms and howled with uncontrollable laughter together with squeals and shouts that surprised probably even her. Despite using all her strength to protect her armpits, her “Clamp” did not hurt me at all. Her armpits were actually so soft that it actually gave way to my fingers. In fact, I felt like my fingers were rougher than her smooth armpits. I forced my fingers upwards and wiggled them around like my life depended on it. Audrey threw her head back and tried to twist my fingers out of her sensitive hollows to no avail. I had only slightly scratched the creases of her armpits during our dances while her arm rested on my shoulder while we tangoed, but this time I was free to explore the silky contours of her armpits. Amazingly though, Audrey still tried to open her pit’s up by slightly moving her elbows away from her body. It was a meager effort, and she could hardly even open her pit up at all, but it was enough for me to force my fingers in a different position. I thrust my thumbs into her hollows as they were exempted from the action before and pinched the meaty crease of her armpit that became revealed as her arm slightly went up. Pinching over and over tickled her a lot causing new notes of laughter to erupt from Audrey and inevitably clamping her arms shut again. This time though, my thumbs were inside. I used the knuckles of my thumbs to drive inwards towards her breast while pinching the crease of Audrey’s pits. From prior experience, I knew she could feel every little movement in her underarms so I knew she felt both movements.

“OH SHIT! OH SHIT!!!!!!” Laughed Audrey as she finally fell forward off her chair onto the floor where I couldn’t reach her.

Audrey continued to laugh even though I wasn’t tickling her anymore. Her shoulders shook as she laughed and she kept her elbows tightly against her body. Honestly her sports bra really did nothing to protect her sensitive armpits. Again, I looked at my hands and was amazed with how utterly soft her armpits were. When I stroked them, they were like actual silk, but yet plump. I loved the way they felt and I hungered for more. I knew better though, and I didn’t push my luck.

“Audrey are you okay?” I asked quickly.

She let out a few tired giggles and stated “My armpits are way more sensitive than I thought. Or maybe you’re just good at tickling them? Maybe both? Either way I can’t keep my arms up at all. Maybe I can try holding onto something?”

I laugh and nodded, but hesitated. If I was going to really tickle her without reserve, she needed to be immobilized.

“Do you trust me, Audrey?’ I asked daringly.

This caught her by surprise, but she nodded in response.

“In that case, I think we should tie you up.” I said.

I braced myself for her vehement rejection but to my surprise, she thought about it, and said

“Okay, I think that might be the best answer.”

My eyes widened and I almost couldn’t hide my excitement. We found some rope and moved over to her living room. I took her to the couch which was fairly big. When she sat down, I went behind her and told her to bring her arms straight out to her sides and rest them on the back of the couch. Audrey complied yet again revealing her sensitive skin. Her arm holes did well to present her 2 hollows. I stared at them for a bit. This gave them a nice shape too. Different from when she had her arms straight up. The skin wasn’t as taut so it accentuated the lines of her armpits. It gave it a deeper hollow as well. It was a nice little touch. It seemed like there were and endless number of observations I could make about Audrey’s armpits… and with every observation, created more things that I liked about Audrey’s armpit. I would never tell her that though.

Behind the cushions of the couch, was a convenient wooden frame that I could secure Audrey’s delicate but strong arms to. I tied at her bicep area and then wrist. I also secured her waist to the frame, having the rope go in between the couch cushions. She had a habit of twisting and turning when she couldn’t move her arms, and I really wanted to minimize that. Afterwards, I admired my handiwork.

“Try pulling at the ties” I told Audrey.

I wanted to make sure that she couldn’t escape.

She tugged at the ties. I watched the curve of her armpits become deeper. I was amazed at how there really was no hair at all there. Getting a straight on view, my eyes could visualize the entirety of her wide-open armpits.

As I intended, she couldn’t move an inch.

“Are you ready?” I asked Audrey.

“I think I – “Audrey started, but she got interrupted my wiggling finger tracing the newly accentuated lines of her open left pit.

I stroked the lines up and down making Audrey giggle endlessly. The softness was still surprised me. It seemed softer than before. Was it because it wasn’t stretched as much? Or maybe from the sweat. I became addicted to the way it felt. I watched her armpit hollow once more and my curious fingers went in to explore the depths of that hollow. This action made her flinch and brought her laughter a pitch higher than a couple seconds ago. I wanted to fully experience the contour so I first used the tip of my index finger. I poked and wiggled around the sensitive dip of her armpit and repeated it one by one with every single one of my 10 fingers making sure I understood the sensation with all of them. With each prod and stroke, Audrey exploded with a tremendous amount of laughter. The sound was like music to my ears. Her sweat was building up but I wiped it off quickly with my fingers. The it added a sleeker lubrication so my fingers sped up.

Audrey tugged at the bonds to no avail as she exploded with more uncontrollable laughter. Tossing her head back and forth, her eyes were shut tightly. I could see her face becoming redder as she laughed harder and harder. I took a look at her hands and they were balled tightly into fists. The dancer’s knuckles becoming white with how much she squeezed her hands. It was as if she was holding on for dear life. I would never let anything bad happen to her though. As I enjoyed my thorough exploration of Audrey’s left pit, I noticed my fingers were all fighting for a place to be. It was difficult to fit them all in. Then I realized something important.

Just as I had 2 hands, Audrey had 2 EXTREMELY sensitive armpits.

As I came to this realization, I straddled myself onto Audrey’s lap which proved to immobilize her even more. The fingers of my left hand then proceeded to enter Audrey’s much neglected, right armpit.

“OH SHIT!” Audrey screamed at the top of her lungs.

That phrase seemed to be her go to phrase when the sensation was becoming seriously unbearable. Maybe she forgot that she had another crazy ticklish armpit… or maybe she was hoping that I wouldn’t notice. My fingers went into full gallop. Going to the top of her armpit all the way to where her sides and armpit meet. With every hollow, I made sure to completely let my fingers agonizingly drag through just to let her know that I won’t miss even an inch of her pit while it deepened. After that, I curled my fingers in and used the knuckles of my pointer fingers and massaged in a circular motion into the perfect centers of her armpits.

Audrey absolutely lost herself in laughter. Her shoulders hunched upwards looking for any way to escape my prodding fingers. Unfortunately for her, such an escape did not escape. Her laughter finally began to be silent. It would rise in pitch, become silent, and come back. She gasped for air but she could hardly take in any before her uncontrollable laughter came back again. I continued my mischievous massage for a while longer before giving Audrey a break. Her hair had become messy and her face had become sweaty. Actually, it wasn’t just her face, her entire body was covered with sweat. I looked at her shoulders right above her open armpits and it gave a glossy sheen as if it wanted to accentuate how smooth the skin was. Then I looked at her armpit slightly pink from the previous onslaught of my fingers. It was so smooth that it shined too. I could tell Audrey was tired because her relaxed armpit gave a different shape as well. It looked more open… maybe a little more stretched. The lines were a little more wrinkled and the curvy part of her underarm just stayed in its perfect shape. A sight to behold for all armpit lovers around the world. With how much I stared, I guess my face had inched closer to her sensitive hollows.

“Ugh, my armpits must smell so bad right now.” Audrey said sadly.

She made sure to take a shower before I came, and I just realized that Audrey must have been self-conscious about the way she smelled all this time. I wanted to reassure her that she had nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, I had dreamed of getting a whiff of her armpit ever since I met her.

I nuzzled my nose into the curve of her armpit and inhaled her scent deeply. She still smelled fresh. Not even a hint of sourness this time, it smelled like…her. A slightly sweet, powdery scent mixed with a little bit of natural body odor.

“No, you’ve never smelled bad. Actually, you could even say I love the way you smell.” I said while I tickled her armpit using my nose.

Audrey giggled and said

“Well thank you very much, I guess!.”

I pulled back and said

“So if you say anymore nonsense, I’ll tickle you even more!” I said while giving her smooth armpits a quick scribble.

Audrey gave me a beautiful giggle and smiled. I guess she liked that.

“You would tickle me anyways. You didn’t even let me finish what I was saying earlier before you started tickling me!”

I laughed at her remark. I didn’t say anything in return. She was right after all.

I looked around and found a bottle of lotion on her living room table. I picked it up and brought it up to my nose. This was the scent Audrey was giving off earlier.

“This is the lotion you used right?” I asked.

Audrey nodded her head. With that, applied it onto my hands and I slowly slid it into the hollows of Audrey’s arms

“Oh my gosh!” squealed Audrey as the familiar sound of her hard laughter resumed.

I slid my lotion clad fingers from the top of her armpit making sure to use my finger tips as much as I could. I dragged my fingers from the outskirts of her armpit, past the lines all the way to the middle. I made sure to put in pressure right at the points of my fingers and her skin easily gave way to it.

“Ughhhhhh” said Audrey in between her giggles as I went through this motion. As I got to the center, Audrey’s pit hollowed once more and that’s where I drew circles with the lotion interchanging between the tips of my fingers and my thumbs. This caused Audrey to close her eyes again and shriek with high pitched laughter. I never thought such perfect armpits would be so ticklish. They deserved to be exposed all the time, yet they made her so vulnerable. Then again, maybe the deserved to be tickled too. I continued on for about 10 minutes before I decided to finally untie Audrey and call it a day.

Once everything was settled, Audrey slumped back into the chair looking tired. She smiled at me and said

“Do you think this is gonna work Nether?”

“Yes, I think it’s working. During that last part, you were still laughing hard, but you weren’t thrashing as much. I don’t think you got any less ticklish, but I think it doesn’t make you as tense anymore.” I replied.

Her smile grew and she had a look of triumph about her.

“Awesome! Then let’s keep these sessions going until the tournament! If I’m not tense, I can dance well! Even if I laugh, nobody will be able to hear it over the loud music!” Audrey said.

With that, a look of triumph came about me, as I realized I would get to do this with Audrey every day! Afterwards, we said our goodbyes and I headed home. I went to bed happy and I definitely pleasured myself imagining all the events we went through today. I was happy have an armpit fetish.

As promised, I continued my days full of Audrey’s armpits. She always wore sleeveless clothing to dance rehearsals, and whenever we got home, we had tickle training sessions. We tried tying her in different ways. On the chair, on the bed, and one time even to the door. Any way we could bring her arms up and expose her armpits, we did it. Audrey seemed to be enjoying it more and more, or maybe she sensed that I enjoyed it too, and that joy spread to her. It was an armpit lover’s paradise. We went on and eventually it came to the day before the competition. I went over to Audrey’s house, and she was wearing a tank top. Sleeveless again as usual. Audrey welcomed me into her home and said

“Hey... I’ve been able to dance well despite how ticklish I am. Lets keep it light today, I don’t think you have to tie me. I don’t want to get tired before the competition, after all.”

Of course, I complied with her request. We went onto her bed and she laid down. I propped myself onto my elbow next to her and she raised her arms up. She revealed her 2 succulent meaty armpits again, and I was again stuck admiring them. I looked both of them up and down before slowly using my index finger and dragged it across her right armpit. She gave a giggle, but stayed relaxed, as if she welcomed the gentle entrance of my finger into her sensitive armpit. She looked at me and said

“You really like my armpits, don’t you? I can tell with the way you look at them.”

I gave her a look of surprise.

“I didn’t really know I was looking at them a particular way.” I stammered, trying to keep my cool. I pulled my hand back on instinct.

Audrey sensed that I had become a bit uncomfortable, and reassured me.

“Hey, it’s okay. I honestly love the way you look at them. Not that I particularly like anyone looking at my armpits, but it feels almost like… innocent, unconditional love. Anyways I know I was the one that asked you to do this in the first place. Maybe I’m wrong.”

She wasn’t wrong. I did love every bit it. In fact, it made me fall in love with her even more. She was just a crush before, but ever since my days became filled with her armpits I really felt like I had fallen in love.

“You’re not wrong, I think I really did grow to love your armpits.” I said.

This was a lie. I knew I had liked armpits from the moment I was born. I just didn’t want to seem like a weirdo who exploited her determination.

She giggled. “Well thank you for that, I guess. Maybe you grew to love me too, and not just my armpits?” Audrey said teasingly.

My eyes widened and I realized how objectifying what I just said was. I felt disgusted with the fact that I could have hurt Audrey’s feelings with my words. My own disgust gave me the ultimate courage.

“No of course I love more than just your armpits! I’ve completely fallen in love with you Audrey!” I declared.

I looked her straight in the eyes making sure she could see my determination. She covered her mouth in shock and looked like she was nearly about to cry.

“Nether I’ve been feeling the same way. Honestly, I picked you as my partner because I had been crushing on you. It wasn’t anything deep, but as our days of intimacy went by, my feelings grew. Suddenly, I found myself looking for you whenever we’re in the classroom… and happy whenever I saw you.” Said Audrey.

I related to what she said. Whenever I arrived to school first, I was constantly looking at the door waiting for Audrey to arrive. During our lectures, I stared at her from afar. When class ended, I became excited for dance practice knowing I would be close to her.

With that, I had the sudden urge to embrace Audrey. I followed my heart and she returned my embrace. We talked about our feelings a little more, and I had a fluttering feeling in my heart. We ended up becoming a couple after all that.

“Well now since we’ve gotten all that straightened out, let’s do what you came here to do.” Said Audrey.

She raised her arms once more, and I reveled yet again in the sight of my girlfriend’s perfect armpits. I looked at her face and sure enough she was looking at me directly in the eye with a knowing smile.

“Well from now on, you can do everything you want with my armpits can’t you?” she said slyly as she pulled at her armhole as if to present her armpit to me even more.

That movement incited a passion in me and I went down and tickled her with an onslaught of kisses in her exposed pit while sneakily giving it a sniff while I was at it. She giggled at the reaction and said

“Wow I never thought my armpits would receive your kisses before my lips!”

I took her wrists and brought them above her head.

“Be careful what you wish for.” I replied.

I kissed her lips passionately while tickling both of her soft armpits with my galloping fingers. Even though she wasn’t tied, she kept her arms up, easily allowing me to continue. She giggled endlessly while we kissed. That was a sensation I would never forget in my life. In fact, I never even knew such an amazing sensation existed until now.

With our happiness flowing, we completed our day by the time I woke up, it was the day of the competition. Everything went well. Me and Audrey had a new unbeatable chemistry in dance that we never had before. We danced the choreography perfectly. I even gave Audrey a few tickles while my fingers were nestled under her arms while we tangoed. She gave me a few giggles, but didn’t mess up the dance at all, but she gave me a look as if to tell me not to mess around right now. I looked at Aron who cheered us on from the crowd, and he had a look in his eyes that told me he was proud of how well we represented his work. It was the least I could do. I would forever thank Aron and promised I would pray for his well being until the day I died. He would never know this though.

After everything was finished, we managed to win the competition, further adding on to the memories we all would forever have. Later on in the future, our members would continue to stay friends even after our crew was disbanded. My armpit filled adventures with Audrey would continue and our future was filled with bright smiles and laughter… Literally.

The End.

This story is written by Nether Cat. I hope everyone who read this enjoyed it! For those wondering, about how the performance outfit looked, I'll post a picture of a selfie of the person who inspired Audrey's character on the specific performance day that inspired this story. Again, I've cropped out her face to keep her anonymous, but I hope this picture makes the story a bit more

[strange-dreams-are-made-of-these]

Take My Whiskey Neat (Part Four)

Summary: Logan, Storm, Jean, and their rag tag crew attempt to save the children who were captured from the raid on the mansion. While the professor is being forced to act as a super cell to attack mutants everywhere, young Amaris is being used in ways she had only ever read about. Tags: Canon-typical violence, torture, surgical scenes (no use of anesthesia/conscious surgeries), use of weapons, cursing, character death, could be more. Word Count: 18k+ A/N: I do not own any of the characters mentioned except for Amaris Howlett. The divider credits are in my master list. Images found on Pinterest.

Part One Part Two Part Three

Logan had pulled into the driveway of the Drake’s family home, through the guidance of young Bobby. Thankfully they hadn’t lived that far away from the mansion, roughly three and half hours away, though it was three and half hours that Stryker had to do anything he wanted with the mansion. Bobby led the group into his home. Mom? Dad? Ronny? he called out as Rogue and John followed him in. Logan shut the door behind them, locking it as Bobby looked around. I’ll find everybody some clothes. he spoke, taking two steps up the stairs. He then turned around to look at John. Just, don’t set anything on fire, please?

Bobby continued up the stairs, Rogue following him. John fiddled with a lighter he had, a shark painted on the casing. Cause that’s all I’m good for, right? he retorted, shaking his head as he walked further into the home.

Logan had examined the device they found in Scott’s car, a piece of x-men gear. Logan thought it was a phone, bringing it up to his ear. Hello? he asked, hearing static on the other end. However it never connected. He huffed, placing the device in his pocket. Where are you Storm? he whispered to himself.

Bobby came back down the stairs, finding Logan a plain white t-shirt from the back of his father’s closet. He then gave John a pair of his jeans along with a long sleeve brown shirt. John had been in the living room finding pictures of Bobby’s family. He observed one with their parents standing behind Bobby and his little brother Ronny. They looked like a little happy family, something John didn’t quite have growing up. He kept his life private from the other students which often made him an outcast, given he was hot tempered already. Adding fire manipulation powers to the mix was, quite literally, adding fuel to the fire.

The humming of the fridge drew Logan in. He swung the door open as his eyes scanned the shelves, sniffing about until he found it. An ice cold beer he had been wishing for over the last four hours. He pulled the bottle off the shelf, shutting the door as he twisted the cap off. He brought the bottle to his lips, taking a long drink from it. He heard a little noise, causing him to stop drinking. He tensed up as his claws extended, pointing them at the threat that approached him.

The cat, affectionately known as Snowball, sat on the island watching Logan. The cat then sniffed his claws before licking them. Logan watched the cat, his eyes softening as he observed the animal. It didn’t back away from him or retreat in horror, hearing the soft purring the animal emitted.

The sound of a door opening pulled Logan away, retracting his claws as he watched a boy, a woman, and a man filter into the home. The woman watched Logan before reaching down for Snowball who ran to her owners. The man walked around the boy, staring at Logan. Who the hell are you? he demanded.

Shuffling came down from the stairs again as Logan watched Bobby and Rogue come from the stairs. Logan, still holding the bottle in his hand, pointed a finger at Bobby as he was locked in eye contact with Bobby’s father. Mom, Dad! Ronny! Bobby had been happy to see his family again.

Sweetie, his mother spoke. aren’t you supposed to be in school?

Bobby, who’s this guy? his father asked.

Bobby looked from John to Rogue, Rogue to Logan, and then Logan to his father. He nodded a couple little nods. This is uh… Professor Logan. This earned him a look from Logan, narrowing one brow. Bobby knew he couldn’t hide himself from his family anymore. His honest self. If they were going to get any help from them, they had to know the truth first. We need to talk.

Charles woke up in a dark room. As he stirred he noticed the freezing cold bouncing off the concrete walls, then the weight of a device on his head. He breathed in deep breath to center himself as his vision finally cleared. He noticed the man standing in front of him, just a few feet to his side, had been a woman. Charles spoke up. William-

Please, Xavier, save your strength! You wouldn’t want to move around too much after that long and endearing flight. Stryker spoke, stepping closer to Charles. He watched as the older man leaned forward in his seat, wincing in pain. He laughed at Charles’ misfortune. Do you like it? I created it, a neural inhibitor.William brought two fingers up to his temple, tapping it. It keeps you out of here.

Charles looked over to the woman who had watched William, eagerly anticipating his next commands. Charles looked away from her, feeling restraints on his wrists. He pulled up at them lightly, knowing he was no match at breaking them. Where’s Scott?

Stryker leaned off the wall, rubbing his hands together. I’ve taken a page out of your book, Xavier. I have taken the liberty of putting him through some… re-education. Something you know a thing or two about.

Charles knew that William was a scorned man, somebody who believed that being a mutant was a choice, a disease that could easily infect others. William, you must understand, what you wanted was for your son to be cured. Being a mutant isn’t an illness.

Stryker turned around quickly, yelling It’s a lie! Stryker watched Charles as silence fell over him. The Great Charles Xavier and all of his mental prowess. I turned to you, of all people, when I needed help the most. Turns out you were more frightened of him than I ever was.

Charles leaned back in his seat as William approached him. Did you know that about a year after he returned home from your pathetic school, he did the unimaginable? My son, an illusionist, sat still without remorse or concern on his face watched as my wife put a power drill through her left temple. William started to grow erratic with his movements, pacing a little and shaking his hands. Jason resented us, told us that we were the cause of his condition, that we forced him to be this living embodiment of sin.

William watched as Charles’ eyes flicked over to the woman, Yuriko, as she looked down at her hands, her metallic colored nails shining in the light. William raced over to her, forcing her to bend her neck down. He pulled a syringe out from his pocket, dropping a liquid substance on her. After a moment she straightened her posture, a new look took over her eyes. For somebody who hates mutants, you tend to keep quite the interesting company.

William watched as Yuriko walked away. He smiled at Charles, an evil look in his eye. Mutants do serve a great purpose… as long as they can be controlled properly.

Charles shook his head, finally understanding the events of the morning. You. Charles almost sounded defeated by his own statement. You were behind the attack on the president.

William smiled, clapping his hands together. Excellent job Xavier! And to think, you didn’t need to even read my mind to figure it out. That's impressive! he spoke in mock enthusiasm.Do you know what baffles me, Xavier? The fact that I’ve been dealing with mutants for nearly as long as you have. Granted, our encounters with them have been, well… different, to say the least. In all of the years we have been working with them, we have never been able to figure out exactly how many there are.

Charles watched him as he walked closer to him again, unable to do anything but stay still and listen to the man’s ranting. Except there is one way. Charle’s eyes widened at the thoughts.

The sound of a woman's screams could be heard down one of the hallways, slightly filtering into the chamber. The scream sounded familiar to Charles, though in his current state, he couldn’t quite put a name to it. How many others do you have down here, William?

Not nearly enough. However, I did come across quite a few new additions to my collection.

The large door opened up again as a soldier pushed a rather large wheelchair into the room. The metallic sounds of a respirator device hissed every few seconds. Charles looked at the man in the wheelchair, mortified of what had happened. William! By God, this is your son! Charles exclaimed, looking at the rather large scar on the right temple of the man.

William shook his head. No, my son is dead! He stared Charles down as he passed behind the wheelchair Jason was in. This is mutant subject 143. He’s a special case, you see, he is able to produce a mind controlling agent from a secretion from his brain and spinal fluids.

You’ll never find the answers you’re looking for William.

Funny you should say that, Charles. I’m approaching the pinnacle of this plan. You are just the missing railroad spike from the tracks. Stryker headed out of the room, followed by the two soldiers who escorted Jason into the room. Charles was left alone with Jason, the sounds of his device hissing filling the room.

Stryker remained silent as he walked down the causeway, entering the room where the screaming woman had been. He watched as the doctor and used the scalpel to slice through her forearm, pulling the tendon sheaths to the sides and exposing the bone claws. William smiled sadistically as he approached the operating table.

Amaris had been strapped down to the table in metal restraints, the power blocking collar still on her neck. She hissed through gritted teeth as she looked up at Stryker, towering over her. As you can see, Dr. Williams here is excellent with a blade.

Amaris watched him, unable to move due to her restraints. I’ve seen better. he retorted. Her feet had been shaking from the shock of being awake from the operation they were doing on her, having both of her forearms cut into and exposed. There were tourniquets applied to both arms to keep her blood loss as minimal as possible. Her vitals were being monitored on a screen, and the low hum of the device around her neck rattled in her brain.

Stryker peered into her arms, seeing one beautiful set of bone claws in her left arm, and three nearly missing ones in her right. I remember when you were nothing but a little babe. Riding in your momma’s lap up to your dad’s terrible job. He left behind greatness, you know? Left your uncle in the dust as well.

Amaris had tried to contain her shaking, though she knew she wouldn’t, not until her body healed. What do you want me for? Huh? she asked him.

He tossed his jacket to the floor, grabbing a set of gloves. From you? Nothing more than your compliance. He picked up a set of pick-ups, medical grade tweezers, digging into her right forearm. She grunted through the pain, fire coursing through her veins as he poked at one of her broken claws. I created a masterpiece with Logan. So, naturally, I only want to perfect your image. You see, I don't want anything from you. I want to fix you. Make you my most successful Weapon X subject.

He pulled the pick-ups out of her, looking over at Dr. Williams. Remove these broken ones and the spare one over there. Then take one of those and put it in her right. I’ll have two matching sets over here within an hour.

You’re a monster. Amaris seethed.

William turned to face her, No, you are the animal here. He then stormed off, heading back out of the chamber. The doctor began to cut into her right forearm, preserving the nerve endings needed to house the new claws. Her screams filled the chamber again as the door closed, Stryker humming as he walked.

Logan stood up, crossing his arms as he observed the kids. Rogue and Bobby sat on the couch as he spoke with his family. John leaned against an accent table, igniting the lighter and closing the cap repeatedly. It was Bobby’s mother who broke the awkward silence. So, Bobby… when did you know you had… were a…

John looked at her, seeing how she fumbled with her question. He laughed nervously. A mutant? He watched her as the corners of her mouth twitched, staring at him.

Bobby’s father spoke up. Please, understand, we thought Bobby was going to prep school. An academy for gifted children.

Rogue shook her head. Bobby is gifted.

His mother looked over at him. Bobby, we still love you, you're our son. She looked between Bobby and Rogue, not able to shake the nervous feeling she had. This mutant problem is-

What mutant problem? He asked her.

She rolled her eyes at him. It’s complicated. she spoke, then grabbed the rosary around her neck.

What is it that you teach Bobby, Mr. Logan? his father asked, staring up at the man.

Logan wasn’t known to be a quizzical thinker. He just acted on impulse. Art, he drew out, which only earned him looks for the three teenagers.

Rogue turned back to look at Bobby’s mom, putting her gloved hands together. You should see what Bobby can do, it’s amazing.

His mother had been more focused on the tea she had, needing to calm and center herself. Bobby slowly readed out with a single pinger pointed. He touched her tea cup, instantly freezing the hot drink. His mother flipped the cup over, watching the large tea ice cube settle on the saucer. She set it down as Snowball came up and licked it. Ronny, who had remained silent, stood up, racing up the stairs and toward his room. His mother rocked in her seat a little, nervously rubbing her knees. This is all my fault. she stated.

John laughed. Actually, the mutation gene has been linked back to males being the carrier. So, technically, it’s his fault. he spoke, pointing at Bobby’s dad.

A beeping sound could be heard, similar to a ringtone. Logan dug into his pockets, pulling out the device. That’s for me. He quickly made his way to the back porch, shutting the door behind him. Storm? Jean?

Yeah, we’re here, Storm replied, taking a seat in the co-captain chair. Where’s everyone at? We can’t get anybody at the mansion to respond.

Soldier’s came, attacked us in the middle of the night. Logan explained, pacing the back porch.

Jean gasped at the news. What happened to the children?

We helped some of them escape. I can’t be for certain. he spoke. They took Amaris.

They? Jean asked.

It was Stryker. Pietro was with him too. Had his grubby little smell all over the operation.

We haven’t been able to get in contact with the Professor either, or Scott.

Where are you, Logan? Storm asked him,

Boston. We’re at Bobby Drake’s house.

We’re turning around to pick you up. Jean spoke, already in the process of turning the Black Bird around.

Logan could sense something was going on, hearing a rustling sound in the bushes. Make it quick, girls. he responded before turning the device off. He stuck it in his pockets, re-entering the house. Kids, come on, it’s time to go.

Logan, what’s wrong?

He looked at the teenagers, approaching the door. Now, come on! he called.

Though this effort came too late. His claws extended as he crossed through the door. There had been several police cars on the street with cops pointing their guns at him and the kids. Drop the knives and get down! one cop demanded.

There’s been a misunderstanding Logan explained, looking between the cops at both ends of the porch.

Bobby looked around, then back into the house where his parents were still standing in the living room. His brother was still missing, more than likely up in his room. It clicked. Ronny. He must have called them.

Put the knives down! the cop yelled again, taking one step closer to the group.

Logan looked at him, slowly bringing his hands up.I can’t. Look.

As he brought his hands up, the cop saw it as a threat. He pulled the trigger of his gun, the bullet hitting Logan in the chest, entering his heart. Rogue screamed as Logan hit the porch floor, blood beginning to stain the white t-shirt he had been wearing. Bobby and Rogue both slowly sunk to the ground as they minded where Logan’s body fell. John was the only one who still hadn’t moved.

Many thoughts raced through his brain, thoughts about what would happen if he were to follow suit with Bobby and Rogue. What would happen if he didn’t move? Surely the cops wouldn’t shoot a kid. No, as John saw it, he had two choices. He could fall in line with his peers, or he could take matters into his own hands.

Come on, kid. Just get on the ground.

John pulled his lighter out from his pocket, looking between the two cops. You guys watch the news? See all those terrible stories about mutants? His thumb ran over the switch, igniting the lighter. One day, you’ll see me on that screen… That day, is today.

With quick, fluid like motions, John directed the fire toward the police officer who shot Logan. The man fell off the porch as the blast of heat attacked his senses. John then directed the fire toward the female cop, sending her flying back off the porch and onto the lawn. John looked behind him, seeing two more cops rushing up at him. He directed the fire into the house, attacking the two cops.

Satisfied with those attacks, John looked forward, eyeing the cars. He then created a large fireball, juggling it between the police cars already stationed at the house. He watched as some of the cars flew up into the air from the explosions. His terror did not end with those cars, as he watched another car approach the house. Once it had been within a reasonable amount of distance, he directed the fireball to it, holding the cars occupants hostage against the heat of the fire.

Rogue watched in horror as John attacked the officers. She slipped the glove off that Bobby gave her, then grabbed John’s ankle to absorb his powers. She then reached her hand out, reabsorbing the fire and making it dissipate. Once the fires had been out, John fell to his knees, recollecting himself as Rogue let go of him. Wing began to kick up as the Black Bird approached the cul-de-sac, landing and lowering the ramp.

The bullet fell out of Logan’s chest as his eyes opened up. He rose up, looking down at his shirt, now wet with his blood and a hole in the fabric over his shirt. He saw the destruction around them, looking back at John. He sheepishly shrugged his shoulders. Let’s go. he commanded, leading the group toward the jet through the mangled mess John made.

Bobby turned around, looking up to Ronny’s bedroom window where he saw his family huddled together. It was at this point he knew this was the last time he was going to his family again. If they only knew half of what had happened, things may have been different. They were too stuck in their ways to see that he wasn’t any different from them. He was just gifted.

Bobby turned around, following John up the stairs and into the jet. The kids all found a seat, startled by the presence of another mutant who had been sitting with his feet in the seat, covered in a thin blue fur layer with strange shaped fingers.

Logan approached Jean and Storm. Storm’s eyes widened, placing a hand on his chest below where the blood had stained him. I’m fine, ‘Ro. He then took the seat behind Jean, looking over to the blue-furred mutant. Who the hell is this?

The other mutant clapped his hands together, a strong German accent laid thick. Kurt Wagner. Back in the Munich Circus, I was known as the Incredible Nightcrawler!

Yeah? Well save the rest for later. Logan replied dryly.

Jean and Storm flew the jet away from the Drake’s home, needing to get out of Boston air space as quickly as possible. A pocket of turbulence came over the jet, causing the man to grip the sides of his seat, trying to calm himself. He hated flying. If we were meant to fly, we’d grow wings. he commented.

Once back in her cell, the power blocking device was turned off, allowing her body to heal. She grunted feeling an itchy sensation consuming her forearms for a few moments. Amaris walked back to the furthest wall, clenching her fists as tightly as she could, releasing the claws she had now. She looked down in dismay, feeling the sharp slicing of the metal plated claws rip through her muscles and tendons, ripping through the scar tissue built up over the years of using her bone claws. Instead of having six bone claws she now had four. On each hand she had one bone claw and one made of adamantium.

She felt a deep feeling of guilt, distrust, and anger fill her chest. She slid down the wall, bringing her knees up to her chest. Her left arm wrapped around the tops of her knees, her right elbow rested on the top of her knee, her hand resting on the top of her head as the stinging pain surged through her hands. Her incisions healed nicely, not leaving a single scar on her forearms as the stitches popped out slowly, one by one. Her mind, however, was a different story.

Across the way from her was Gambit. He walked up to the bars of his cell, his hands clinging to the bars. Mara? Is that you?

Amaris looked up, seeing Remy’s outline resting against the bars. She sighed heavily, trying her best to swallow her silent screams. Remy? she asked, lowering her hands and retracting her claws.

As long as the sun still shines and the skies be blue.

She wiped her nose before crawling toward the bars on her cell. She pressed her face against the bars, thankful to see his face. He had looked as if he had been beat up, his hair was disheveled and his jacket had been torn to bits. I don’t see any easy ways out of here, Cajun. She spoke to him. Her once lively voice was now very somber, feeling defeated by the violations made to her body that day.

Remy wanted to reach out and hold her, though the cells were strategically spaced far enough away that the thought was impossible. All he could settle for was seeing her face. Don’t think like that, ange. We will get out of here, Gambit promises.

Amaris looked at him, spotting the red-on-black eyes even in the near dark of the corridor. Don’t make promises you can’t keep. She whispered, feeling a new set of tears stream down her face. I need to get the kids out of here, if it’s the last thing I do.

Gambit rested his arms on the bars, seeing how her amber-yellow eyes looked shinny. It was then he heard her sniffling. I’d hold you if I could.

Amaris smiled a very weak smile at him, the sound of his heart beating drowning out the sounds of water dripping in the hallway. I’ll settle for listening to your voice.

He chuckled as he repositioned himself, now leaning his back against the wall. Gambit is more than happy to oblige.

Amaris took in a deep breath, wiping her face again with her hands. How did the x-men find you? her voice still sounded shaky, using his voice as her source of comfort.

Gambit rested his head back, thinking back to his rescue. I was recovering something taken from me. Just so happens that the person who stole from this thief was also a mutant. He happened to get the upper hand in the situation, leaving ole Gambit injured down in a bayou. Guess the professor could sense it, so he sends Dr. Grey and Summers down to get me. I’d been in that cold bed for maybe three days before you came walking through the door.

Amaris laughed a little, lowly, though loud enough for Gambit to hear her. It at least let him know her spirit hadn’t been broken. Your screams, chere, they are a battle cry.

What? she asked him.

You’re in there fighting, without your powers. You’re telling them that you won’t go down easily.

Amaris sank down to the floor, laying on her side while curling her arm under her head, facing Gambit’s cell. Animal’s go down fighting. she responded.

Gambit watched her, slowly following suit with her, laying on his side. You keep giving it your all, ange. Keep fighting them. Don’t let them take the best of you.

She sighed a little, wrapping her other arm around her torso. Promise me you’ll make sure the kids make it out of here safe, please. A slight tremble of her voice echoed toward the end. Artie is mute, but he will listen to direction. Jubilee is our firecracker. She may question you every step of the way, but she will follow you through the eye of a storm. Jones will make smart ass remarks, but he is extremely talented. she took a deep breath, thinking about the kids who had also been taken to this base. Kitty is quick on her feet and will be useful for finding hidden dangers. Jenny will be the most scared, make sure doesn’t focus on her fear. And Matt will run laps around you, making sure nobody is left behind.

Gambit could tell exactly what type of soul she had based on how she recounted each of the children locked up at the base. She spoke fondly of them all, clearly able to take quick notes of their strengths and weaknesses. If the kids were lucky enough to have Amaris as a teacher, they were going to be alright. I promise to get us all out of here safely. That includes you.

Amaris closed her eyes, feeling her arms tingling as they grew accustomed to the metal claws now laying within them. Only one of her six original claws remained in its natural state. The second was housed in the opposite arm now, and her three broken claws and her one good wrist claw were gone. She never experienced pain as severely before, nor undergone surgery before. Let alone being awake for the operation and feel every slice from the scalpels used, feel each of her muscles and tendons reacting to the foreign sensations. Yet, at the same time, she felt that had only been the beginning of Stryker’s intended transformations. I’m afraid. she admitted out loud in a whisper, looking back at Gambit.

Of what, ange?

She inhaled a deep breath again. I don’t think I’ll make it out of here like this. Her hand that wrapped around her torso grabbed a fist full of the medical gown she had been given. What Stryker wants, he typically gets. Which means the only way I am getting out of here is without a single ounce of humanity in my body… or in a body bag. Stryker wanted weapons at his disposal. Amaris could easily hide in plain sight as a militarized weapon. She was small, standing at a whole five feet and two inches tall. She could keep to small spaces and make easy entrances and exits. Much easier to conceal versus a six foot two inch tall man.

I just got my dad back. I just started getting used to the idea of actively working on the x-men team instead of being on the sidelines. I even enjoyed our time together, Remy, though it’s been short.

Gambit hummed a little. Once we’re out of here, chere, I’ll give you all the time you want.

Get some rest, Gambit. We don’t know how much time we have.

Good night, Amaris. he spoke, slipping one arm out of the cell, outstretched toward her.

Amaris reached her hand out as well, resting it on the corridor floor. Good night, Remy.

Charles had been struggling, finding a sense of peace standing in his office back in the mansion. The sun was shining, birds were chirping, and the mansion sounded quiet. It was all screen, almost as if it had been something he was supposed to be doing at that time.

He was standing.

A soft rippled of a white light pulsed behind him. Jason, stop it! Charles shouted, pulling himself out of the illusion the other man had put him in. Don’t do this. You’re father is using you in an attempt to kill us all.

The other man stared at him, unable to talk or move. All he could do was stare. It was easy for him to compel a new world into his mind.

Charles was in a hallway at the mansion. He could hear a girl crying, sitting in a corner hiding away. He looked over at her. Are they gone? she asked him, sniffling.

Xavier nodded. You can come out now. He watched as she crawled out from the side of the desk, then standing up and walking up to him. Charles reached a hand out, this thumb wiping away her tears. Come with me. We must find the others.

How will we do that? she asked him.

We’ll use Cerebro. he explained. He then started moving the wheelchair down the hallway, holding the girl's hand as they made their way through the mansion.

The crew had a rather interesting journey heading back toward the mansion. Due to John’s actions back at the Drake house in Boston, the Black Bird had been tracked down by military planes. After not giving into their commands, the military jets targeted the Black Bird, intending to bring it down and eliminate the threat.Jean and Storm had mauvered the jet to avoid their targeting systems, including inverting the jet at one point, creating a wide spread breakout of tornados, and using Jean’s abilities to destroy both of the bogie missiles sent after them. Though, as the last missile blew up right outside of the jet and tore a hole into it, Rouge fell out after not securing herself with the seat belt. Nightcrawler proved useful, teleporting to her and bringing her back to the jet.

They had lost so much altitude that they had all been sure they were going to perish in a crash. Luckily for their skins, and by some twist of fate, they had come back into the company of Magneto and Mystique. Magneto had used his powers to slow the jet down right before it collided with the ground. A true had been made between the two rivals, all in the name of Charles Xavier.

Logan had finished setting up his tent, dusting his hands on his jeans. Storm walked up to him, handing him a jacket. It’s Scott’s size, but if you can fit into one of his suits, you should be able to fit into this.

Logan looked at the jacket, spotting a black t-shirt tucked neatly into it. Thanks, he replied. He set the jacket down on the top of the tent, ripping the white and bloody t-shirt off. Storm’s eyes wandered his chest as he grabbed the black t-shirt. He caught her out of the corner of his eye, slowing down his movements briefly, chuckling under his breath before slipping the shirt on. He then grabbed the jacket, running his arms through the holes and adjusting the fabric. It’ll do for now, I’m sure.

Storm smiled up at Logan, though it slowly fell. I’m sorry about what happened at the mansion. And about the students, and everybody else. I’m just so worried about them.

Logan could tell she had been bothered by the situation deeply. He hadn’t seen her upset before. Angry, yes, happy, yes. This was new to him, seeing her so vulnerable, and she trusted him enough to see her in that state. Hey, hey. It wasn’t your fault. he spoke, wrapping his arms around her in a gentle embrace. Storm blinked through the tears that threatened to spill over, wrapping her arms around Logan. She had been safe the entire time, tracking down Nightcrawler in the abandoned church in Boston while Logan had to fight soldiers and helped the children escape. He had to come face to face with his past, and watch as his daughter was held hostage from him. It wasn’t fair.

It’s not your fault, either. she spoke against his chest. He rested his chin on the top of her head, rubbing soothing circles on her back. Logan hadn’t known Storm for very long, yet he could tell she had been something different than he ever thought imaginable in life. She was always looking out for others, looking out for the safety and well being of the children and staff, wanting to make sure the kids knew they were safe with them. Just to hear that some of them had been taken by Stryker. Someone that knew Logan, but Logan couldn’t remember him. We will find her, Logan.

He moved his head, then pressed a kiss to the top of Storm’s hair, finding peace in her hold. It had been something he felt he had been missing for a long time, unknown to him until it happened. We’re going to find the professor, Scott, and the children. We will fix up the mansion, make sure something like this never happens again. Not as long as I’m around.

Storm tilted her chin up to look at him, her eyes shifting between both of his. Had that been a statement he used to provide her comfort? Or had he made a promise to stay around for a longer amount of time? So much has happened in such a little amount of time. Up felt like it was down, right seemed left, day felt like night. Logan?

He looked at her, offering a soft smile. I’m going to make sure everybody makes it back safely. I won’t leave until everyone is back, or until I’m not wanted anymore. He knew his time at the mansion had been chaotic, even borderline insane, though he began to find a sense of belonging there. He wasn’t the school teacher type, but maybe they could use him for other practical things. Maybe a live-in handyman? A groundskeeper? The resident drunk that sits in the corner and broods most of the day. I have a sneaky suspicion that between you and Amaris, the latter sounds unlikely.

Storm laced her arms behind his neck, securing herself neatly in his hold. I want you to stay here, with us. She leaned up, pressing a kiss to his lips. Logan pulled her closer to him, one hand cradling the side of her neck as his thumb rested on her cheek. Storm wrapped one hand at the base of his neck as they moved in tandem with the other.

A twig snapped near them, causing the two to break away from their brief make-out session. This makes so much more sense now, Mystique chided at the two. Come to the fire pit. We have much to discuss. She turned around, sauntering away from the couple.

Logan watched as she walked away, balling one hand into a fist. Storm watched him, placing her hand over his as her fingers caressed his knuckles. Another time. If we want to save the professor and the children, we will need their help.

Logan looked down at Storm, knowing that what she had said was true. He didn’t like it, but he knew that his previous adversary would do anything to keep Charles safe. He often wondered about their past and what had happened for them to form such a trusting bond with each other, only to be on opposing sides in the politics and war zones of mutant rights. He let go of her waist, taking her fingers between his. We’re sure there’s no other way?

Storm shook her head as they began walking toward the firepit. We don’t have the time or the resources to find another way.

Magneto had been sitting on a log next to the fire, removing his gloves and holding his hands out toward the flames. His telepathic blocking helmet rested next to him as Logan and Storm approached hand-in-hand. Magneto looked at the two, taking a few mental notes. Jean soon joined the group, holding a couple of tools she had been using on the jet for repairs. Mystique then joined, standing behind Magneto, fresh from his jail break. I’m certain you have all heard of his name before. The person responsible for the attack on your precious school is Colonel William Stryker. He could have a multitude of reasons to invade it, though he had one intention in mind. He wanted Cerebro. He then looked around the group. I have reasons to believe he is close enough to finishing one of his own.

How could he do that? Jean asked. There’s only one mutant on the planet who could operate Cerebro, and that the professor.

Magneto nodded, I also believe he knows that, which is why my very dear friend is still alive.

Alive? Storm asked, sounding relieved. Though her face began to fall as she made eye contact with Jean. Wait… Oh my God. her jaw dropped slightly.

Logan watched the girls, seeing Storm’s facial expressions then noticing a slight color change in Jean’s. What’s going on? What do you know?

Magneto laid down the groundwork for Logan. Once Charles is inside of Cerebro, he is able to connect to every human or every mutant in existence, neither at the same time. If he were to focus on one group hard enough, he could kill us all.

Storm collected herself, looking at Magneto. How would Stryker even know what Cerebro is? Or what it does?

Magneto exhaled deeply looking at the group. The colonel is much more than just a man working in the nation’s armed forces. He… oversees mutant experiments. The very ones that turn the Wolverine into the animal he currently is. Magneto hummed before his lips drew into a fine line. He has powerful weapons of persuasion on his side. Of which, he used on me. The information was coerced out of me.

You sure you didn’t forfeit it over in exchange for your freedom? Logan asked.

Mystique placed a hand on Erik’s shoulder. I was the one who aided his early release.

Magneto pointed a finger at Logan. I may have done some horrible things in my life, but I assure you, I would never put Charles Xavier’s life on the line in exchange for my freedom.

He’s telling the truth, Logan. Jean responded. She looked at Erik, somebody she had met with Charles the day she left her home to go to the mansion. Can you tell us more about Stryker?

He gave a simple nod. I know he will never stop in his journey to bring down the mutant race. He isn’t the only one out there performing these experiments or creating these weapons. His eyes then shifted back to Logan, smirking a little. He is also the only man I have ever known who can bend adamantium to his will. You know, the metal that covers your bones and claws.

He shook his head, unable to believe it. Charles couldn’t tell who did this.

My dear boy, Charles trusted that you would find this out for yourself. It’s a shame, really, I wouldn’t hold that same trust in you. he chuckled.

Logan huffed. Did you know he had help scouting the inside of the mansion?

What are you talking about, Logan?

You know, I had an interesting run in up in Calgary with somebody he knows. Somebody we all have some level of interacting with. Logan stared Magneto down, a pressure rising in his chest. Charles told me your boy was up to no good. He watched as the older man’s face changed hearing his son was involved. Yeah, he showed up at the mansion, forced his grubby little fingers on my daughter, and snooped around the place before I ran him off. The next time I saw him, he had handed my daughter over to Stryker.

Pietro? Magneto whispered to himself. He couldn’t believe it. Last he heard, his twins had been in Sokovia in a revolution there for mutant rights. It was also troublesome to know his son had interacted with the daughter of the Wolverine. Did he say why he was there?

He said Stryker had his sister. He wanted Amaris’ help to save her.

Magneto looked up at Logan. I don’t know the type of relationship you have with your daughter, but please, listen to me. From one father to another, we need to join our forces to rescue our children.

Logan’s mind raced as Magneto spoke to him, urging him to work with him. Logan would have gone in as a one man army to save Amaris. He would have every head roll to find her and bring her back. He knew she was able to defend herself and had lived nearly two decades without him in her life; but Logan would do anything to trade places with her now. Knowing that Stryker was the creator of the monster he had been now, Logan would have clawed his way through the ice wall Bobby manifested to get to Stryker.

Tell us, where do we come in on this plan of yours.

Mystique spoke up. I found the plans to his secret base. Details of holding cells, chambers for mutant experimentations, and a room we believe is Stryker’s version of Cerebro.

Our biggest problem is, we don’t know where this base is located. Though I have a feeling one of you do. he chimed.

If what you are saying is true, I wouldn’t know. The professor tried already, and I can’t remember.

Magneto clicked his tongue at Logan, tsking him. Not everything is about you, Logan. Magneto’s gaze then shifted to look up at the tree above him. Everybody else followed suit, spotting the teleporter hanging upside down from the tree by his tail. He waved at them awkwardly before teleporting to safe ground with the group.

It had taken a little convincing, though Kurt accepted, sitting down on the log. Just remain still. This may sting a little. Jean spoke before bringing her hands up to hover just over his temples. Kurt closed his eyes as Jean began to read his mind, seeing flash images of a lake split in two by a dam. She then saw an opening through a spillway into the bunker, hearing screams of different people, military equipment laying around, and various x-rays posted on the walls.

She opened her eyes, releasing Kurt as they both returned to the present, panting slightly from the mental journey they took. Jean took a moment to collect the information, piecing it all together. Alkali… It’s at Alkali Lake.

Jean, that’s impossible. There’s nothing there. It’s gone. Logan spoke.

She turned to look at him, shaking her head. It’s underground. It maintains the dam and serves its purpose for Stryker’s experiments.

Amaris woke up at the sound of approaching footsteps. The collar around her neck turned back on as the slight static hum filled her ears, drowning out the soft snoring of Remy. Her arm had still been outstretched past the bars of her cell toward Remy’s. She sat up, pulling her arm back as she wrapped them around her knees. She saw a pair of mostly white tennis shoes stop in front of her. The man squatted down, holding a water bottle in his hands. I never meant for any of this to happen. Pietro spoke.

Amaris looked up at him, pressing the lower portion of her face into her folded arms. The library. My parent’s cabin. The mansion. It was all an elaborate ruse, wasn’t it? she asked him, hurt filling her chest again.

Pietro shook his head, feeling a pull in his chest as he looked at his ex-girlfriend sitting on the floor of her cell. He told me if I didn’t hand you over to him I would never see my sister again.

So, you would be more than willing to trade me in for Wanda’s safety? The team would have helped you at the first sign of trouble.

Pietro sighed. I know you would have helped Wanda, no questions asked. another set of footsteps approached them. But Wanda’s back in Sokovia. Pietro set the water bottle down before standing up. The new pair of boots stopped at his side as Amaris looked up to see her face.

Lorna?

The woman cackled, looking down at Amaris. The one and only. she almost sang, wrapping one arm behind Pietro’s back. Your pathetic life for mine? Hm, doesn’t feel like an equal trade, brother.

Amaris stood up, grabbing the bars of her cell. I see your still as snarky as ever.

Lorna giggled at Amaris. You almost have that lost puppy dog look in your eyes. You’re not fooling anybody though. Nobody wants to adopt vicious dogs. They want the adorable, innocent little puppies. Something you’re not.

You can’t blame the breed, mon amie. You must blame the owners for teaching them bad manners. Remy spoke, rising to his feet.

Lorna and Pietro turned to look at him. Don’t tell me tall, dark, and handsome over here wants anything to do with the runt of the litter over there.

I gave you a warning, friend. You should have left when I told you to. Pietro spoke, eyeing the man in the cell before he punched him in the gut. Remy folded over, falling to his knees as he grabbed his stomach.

Leave him alone! Amaris called out, rising to her feet. He didn’t do anything to deserve this!

Lorna left Pietro’s side, walking up to Amaris’ cell. Nothing except for accepting the help from the x-men? Stay in Xavier’s fancy mansion in upstate New York? What’s the most difficult choice you make on an average day there? One lump of sugar, or two?

Please, this is between you and me. Leave him out of it. she begged her.

The woman with the green hair reached into the cell, forcibly grabbing Amaris’ jaw. Just admit it. You’d never help me. The only reason why I’m free now is because Pietro had to hunt you down like the filthy animal you are.

Pietro walked over to Lorna, forcing her away from Amaris. That’s enough, Lorna. Let’s go.

Pietro, Amaris stared at him, speaking through gritted teeth. Understand that if I ever get out of here, I will never do anything for you ever again. I will pass you by on a street corner and treat you like any other stranger in New York City. I will ignore every call for help. I will not race to your deathbed. I will sit happily on a beach or in the mountains somewhere with a cold drink in my hand as your body turns into dust. She had been seething at this point. Our relationship meant nothing to you. You’re just like your father.

Pietro watched her, a stone cold expression painted on his face. He took every jab she metaphorically threw at him before scooping Lorna up into his arms. That makes two of us. Once Lorna had been secured, Pietro used his super speed abilities, leaving the base as was promised to him by Stryker.

The hurt that she once felt turned into a numbing sensation, as if cold water had been poured over her head. The fond memories she looked back on during her hard days meant nothing to her now. Suddenly her mother’s letter had a new manifestation. Amaris found herself in her father’s shoes, having been turned over to William Stryker for his sick personal gains, and Pietro traded the love he once had for her for the safe return of his sister. Everything they had built together had been for nothing. She was worth nothing.

The collars remained on as a set of boots came down the hallway. Grab the girl. Take her to the chamber, it’s time to start the second phase of this operation. Stryker spoke, looking into the cell.

Amaris grunted as a soldier used his weapon to deliver a blow to her head, causing her to stumble back. They grabbed her, dragging her out of the cell. When’s Gambit gonna get his turn? Remy spoke, recovering from the gut punch.

Stryker laughed at him, holding his belly. You are funny. You think you’re of value here? William walked away, following his soldiers and a stunned Amaris. We will come and get you, when it’s time for target practice.

The soldiers had brought Amaris into a new chamber, forcing her into a chair. She had been strapped in with metal restraints and her ankles and her wrists. Oddly, they had positioned her hands into a certain position, curling her fingers over the edge of the arms of the chair. Her palms were forced down flat. Next to the chair had been two metal trays filled with tools. One tray had four triangular shaped metallic items. The other tray was covered with a blue sheet. Laughing nervously, Amaris watched as Stryker walked in front of her, stopping as Dr. Williams entered the room with two other people dressed in scrubs. You could at least take me to dinner before you decide to fuck with my body, Stryker.

William watched her. Trust in me, there is a reward at the end of all your operations. This is only the second step before I bring you to your full potential.

The two assistants had walked over to Amaris, coating her knuckles in a brown iodine solution, making sure to coat her hands and fingers evenly. I was overdue for a nail appointment. You wouldn’t happen to have pink, would you? I’d be willing to settle for orange as my second choice.

William raised his hand, forcing it across her face with solid force. I will not tolerate your attitude much longer.

Amaris had looked over to her side, feeling a small trail of blood stream from her nose, coating her upper lip. She turned her face to look back at Stryker, smiling up at him. Oh dear, here I thought we were just getting to know each other.

Ready to make the first incision sir. the doctor spoke, holding the scalpel in his hand.

Stryker nodded at the doctor, then watched his new test subject. The assistant’s had picked up sharpies, marking triangles between her first and second knuckles and her third and fourth knuckles. The assistants then stood to the sides as the doctor walked over to her left side. Amaris gripped the arms of the chair as the sharpened blades sliced through her skin, gritting her teeth as she screamed out in pain, watching as blood rushed out from her knuckles.

Your father was my favorite experiment. Certainly the most successful at the time. Stryker spoke, taking a seat and observing the work he had orchestrated. I wonder what he’s up to now.

Both knuckles had been opened up on her left hand at this time. The doctor had been handed a tool that was now being used to cauterize her blood vessels, slowing down her bleeding but burning her at the same time. Amaris breathed heavily as her cheeks puffed up and shrunk at the untimely intervals. She looked at Stryker as he spoke, unable to form a proper sentence at the time. The doctor handed the tool back over to his assistants, requesting one of the metal pieces and a drill. Dr. Williams had the drill in his dominant hand, then lining up the cold metal piece into her third to fourth knuckle space.

These pieces are fitting you for will aid and assist your claws to release and retract with ease. It will make wearing jewelry difficult, and also make your mutant status a little bit known, but these are the prices we pay in order to have our weapons in top functioning condition.

The doctor brought the drill down to the adamantium screw, drilling it into one of her bones. Amaris yelled again, leaning as far forward as she could, searing pain taking hold of her entire body. The doctor had fastened the adamantium pieces into the knuckle within thirty seconds, though Amaris felt it had been longer than that. Her face was red, feeling very warm and even shaking as the shock began to take over her body. It’s a very quick procedure, as you can see. We’re not even five minutes in from that start and we are already a fourth of the way done! You must feel good about that.

Amaris hissed at him, gathering some of her composure as the doctor finished with the first knuckle, starting to move onto the second. How many children did you get? She asked him between rage filled sobs.

The drill roared again, thirty seconds had passed as the second knuckle fussed with the metal housing unit. Is two too many for your little heart to bear? he asked her.

The doctor moved over to her right hand, using the scalpel to slice into her knuckles again, opening both sets up. One is too many. she seethed before her sobs turned into silent screams as the doctor cauterized her knuckles again.

Stryker laughed, finding her pain amusing to him. It only served her right, for being a mutant. He could save her, by shredding every ounce of humanity from her and using her for what nature intended for her. She would be a mindless animal acting under his orders as seen fit, spending the rest of her life in a cell where she belonged. Be prepared six times over for that heartbreak.

The sounds of the drill and her screams filled the room again, a minute passed as the last six screws and two housing units were secured to her knuckles. William pulled a remote out of his pocket. Please, step away from the test subject. We must now test the housing units. The doctor and his assistants stepped away from Amaris before William pressed a button. The humming of her collar stopped. The open parts of her knuckles closed up, exposing the metal pieces and incorporating it to her hands. The skin seems to be faring well. Let’s try extending the claws now. with another press of the button, he forced her nervous system to extend her claws. They punctured through the scar tissue, filling through the housing units. The test had been successful, causing the scientist to stand up. Amaris was unable to move, so he was able to approach her, keeping his hands away as he studied the claws. This is fascinating. he spoke, almost admiring the claws.

Amaris breathed heavily as her healing factor helped her to recover from the operation. I’ll give you a closer look, just remove these restraints.

Stryker pressed the button again, causing her claws to retract. He then grabbed her face, examining her over. What I find mysterious is just how much alike your father and his brother were. Sharpened claws on a whim of their choosing, using their senses to hunt down their enemies, even slightly sharpened canines. He hummed a little, then took his thumb and index finger to spread her lips into a smile, displaying her teeth. Not as sharp as I would like for them to be.

Stryker turned to look at the doctor, nodding his head. The assistant walked up to Amaris after William turned her collar back on. They leaned her seat back, placing a restraint over her forehead to keep her head in place. Don’t fight this, Howlett. If you pass out, enjoy the sleep. It will be the last bit of peaceful sleep you will have for a very long time.

The jet took nearly five hours to repair. Their camp was taken down and packed away in the many compartments of the Black Bird. Logan, Jean, and Storm had changed into their suits, putting their clothes into the comparts dedicated for their suits. You got some of those in there for us? Bobby asked.

Logan closed the comparts, pulling at the leather collar around his neck. They’re not due for another couple of years. he spoke, patting a hand on Bobby’s shoulder before walking away. The teen grabbed his shoulder, squeezing it, not expecting the older man’s hand to feel heavy. Maybe Bobby needed to take more sessions in the gym.

Come on, Logan. What do you expect us to do? Sit around in here while you guys get to have all of the fun? Rogue asked him.

Jean turned around, looking at the kids. Nothing about this is fun. The professor is missing. People like us are being experimented on and tortured in that place. Every time we wear this suit, we are accepting an unspoken vow to do everything in our abilities to complete our missions. Even if that means putting our lives on the line.

Storm agreed. Being an X-Men means much more than solidifying your being in history. You take an oath to protect mutant and human kind, risking your very lives to ensure nobody is left behind. Storm looked up at Logan, placing a hand on his back. We look out for each other, and we never rest until everybody makes it back home.

Magneto chuckled, watching the scene as he sat in a chair next to Mystique. That’s quite an indoctrination.

Logan’s gaze shifted to Magneto, feeling a small snarl creep into his throat. He swallowed it, knowing that Magneto was trying to get under their skin. They all needed to work together in order to achieve their goals. Let’s go. The quicker we get there is the quicker we get back home.

Jean and Storm both made their way to the captain’s chair. They pressed various buttons and flipped a few switches. The air outside of the air whirled as the occupants found their seats, putting their seatbelts on as the aircraft raised up into the air. We should be there in five hours. Storm called out to Jean and Logan. The three x-men had all worn ear pieces that served as their communicators so they wouldn’t have to raise their voices to speak with each other.

Jean laughed as the jet propelled forward. Not if I have anything to do with it. She wanted to get to the base as quickly as possible. She knew Scott was there along with the professor and their students. We should come up with a game plan. I can locate the professor if i can tap into his mind.

Storm nodded, keeping the controls steady as they travelled. I’ll take Kurt with me and find the children. His abilities will be useful to get them to safer spaces.

Leave Stryker to me. Logan spoke, focusing forward as he watched the trees vanish below the clouds. I’ll find my daughter and I’ll make sure Stryker is dealt with. Permanently.

Meanwhile, Magneto and Mystique could be heard talking amongst themselves, occasionally looking up at Rogue and Bobby. The teen girl turned around, staring at them. Mystique covered her mouth to muffle her laugh, though it didn’t last long. Don’t mind us. We were just admiring your hair. Have to say, it suits you.

Rogue smirked at them, tilting her head to the side. She then brought her left hand up to unglove her right hand, taking one step closer to them. Bobby placed both of his hands on her shoulders, directing her away. Not here, Rogue. They���re not worth it.

John laughed a little watching the encounter. He didn’t sit with his friends or his instructors. He sat in the back, though keeping equal distance from Magneto and Mystique. He fidgeted with his lighter again, opening and closing the lighter as he looked down at it. He was hunched over, resting his elbows on his thighs before looking over at the two mutants. You’re supposedly the bad ones, right? he asked.

Magneto turned to look at him, smirking. He flipped his palm over, summoning the metal cased lighter into his hands. It depends on who’s the ones telling the stories.

Across for their seats had been the purple and maroon helmet that belonged to magneto, resting on his cape. What’s up with that dorky looking helmet of yours?

Magneto eyed John as he spoke. That ‘dorky looking helmet’ is the only thing that keeps me protected from the real bad guys. he explained. He then looked down at the lighter in his hands, igniting it as he admired the fire. Tell me, boy, what is your name?

John.

Magneto shook his head, turning back to look at him. What’s your real name?

John pondered this question for a moment. He held his palm up, summoning the fire from the lighter to then hover over his hand, swirling it into a ball. Pyro.

Magneto began to smile, watching the boy as he controlled the flame. It’s quite a unique talent you have there, Pyro.

John looked over to Magneto. I can’t produce the flame. I can only manipulate fire that’s already been started.

Which is still talent. Mystique chimed in.

Never doubt yourself in your abilities, Pyro. There could be others out there who can only manifest the flame, but would not be able to control how it rages. John closed his palm, squashing the flame away. You are a God that walks amongst creatines. Don’t let anybody tell you any differently. Magneto then held his hand out toward the teenager, offering him the lighter back.

John reached out, taking his lighter back, flipping it over in his hand a few times. During this entire mess, the older man;s words had been the closest thing to comfort. The best bits of advice he had received since starting at the school. Possibly even the best advice he had ever received in his life.

Charles had finally made his way down to the lower levels of the mansion, the little girl walking with him at his side. Is it time yet? she asked him.

Charles hummed. Nearly, child. We must be patient.

Meanwhile, outside of the illusion, Stryker had been monitoring the surveillance cameras of the cells. He had focused on the children, laughing as they were repeatedly shocked by the invisible field around its perimeter. The nightmare will soon be over, children. he whispered to himself. He hadn’t planned to let them go. They would be used as test subjects, finding out their abilities and how far he could test their limits.

A group of soldiers approached him. Sir, the chamber is completed and the adamantium chamber is prepared. Both subjects are ready for you. he spoke.

William nodded, smiling. Excellent news, sargent. He stood up out of his chair spinning around. Bring Xavier and Mutant 143 to the cerebro chamber first. Once the doors open up, bring weapon x point two to the infusion chamber. Make sure all parties are ready. I want everyone to be prepared in case we need to eliminate her.

The sergeant agreed. Yes sir. His eyes then caught the footage feed of the children, watching as some of them still shocked themselves on the field. Sir, if i can ask, why keep the children?

Stryker eyed the man, taking in a deep breath. I am a scientist, Sargent. Nothing we do is science until we write it down and have evidence. I need to ensure both my machine and my weapon are well documented successes.

Stryker, Yuriko, and the band of soldiers left the security room, heading toward the chamber known as Cerebro Two. The soldiers had communicated with each other through walkie-talkies making sure all of the test subjects had either been on their way into their chambers or had already been placed. First up was Charles Xavier, to get him to connect with the Stryker’s Cerebro device and having Jason in the room with him to keep up the illusion. Then it was onto the final part of Amaris’ operations.

Willim looked happy as he walked through his base, arms happily swinging as they rounded the various corners. A few minutes had passed by before they approached the cerebro chamber. Stryker punched in the pass code to the chamber, watching as the circular doors opened up. Inside had been one of his men standing before Jason’s wheelchair, then here was Charles sitting in front of the table. Stryker walked up to Jason, whispering words to him.

It’s time. the little girl spoke to Charles. We need to find all of our friends. All of the mutants.

Stryker watched as a hypnotized Charles reached out for the silver colored helmet, placing it on his head. He and the soldier both walked out of the chamber, making sure the door had shut. I want a full squad posted here. Shoot anybody that approaches unless radioed previously.

The soldiers then posted up their guard, readying their weapons as they strategically placed themselves along the walls of the corridor. Yuriko walked with Stryker, now heading to the infusion room. It had been near the cerebro room, making his journey through the base easy. He was finally going to achieve his goals and prove to the ones who questioned him how successful he could make the program, even over two decades later.

The two entered the room, which was occupied by Dr. Williams, his two assistants, and about four soldiers. There was a metal perforated table in the middle of the room, water bubbling under the table top. Amaris had been strapped down to the table as the two assistants drew over her body with a sharpie. There had been a large device above her with several syringes and needles filled with tubing. There had been a bubbling sound coming right past her head. Stryker approached the table, placing one of his hands on Amaris’ shoulder. The very water sitting below you is the same water your father volunteered to lay in while having this exact same procedure performed.

You mean tricked into. She responded.

Stryker laughed a little, bringing his hand up her shoulder, grabbing a hold of one of the braids that she had still from her capture. Only one other man has gone through the type of hell you are about to endure. You will be the second woman of your kind, but arguably the strongest.

Amaris couldn’t shrink away from him, nor could she push him away. She had been at his mercy for the duration of her hold at the base. Have you heard the phrase ‘sometimes the best person to do a man’s job is a woman’? Stryker looked down at her, his smile fading again. No matter what he had put her through, she never once broke.

This is your last chance. Tell me what you know about Cerebro and how it tracks mutants? he grabbed her braid forcibly, pulling it down.

Amaris smiled, flashing the new smile Stryker gave her, showcasing the adamantium canines that replaced her previous white ones. Eat shit.

Stryker let go of her. He looked at the Doctor’s white coat, spotting a pair of scissors. He walked over, grabbing them out of his coat before walking back to the table. Amaris spotted the scissors, crying out as Stryker hacked away at her braids. The hair that once reached down to the tops of her hips now unevenly rested at her collarbones. Her hair was sacred to her, it was important in the native communities. Hair was cut only to mourn the death of a loved one. Though, in some sick and twisted way, this was the death of Amaris, knowing that she was either going to die ina failed experiment, or by some miraculous turn of events, she would survive physically but emerge as something new.

Begin the grafting process! Stryker called back, tossing the scissors to the ground before leaving the room. He had learned from his previous mistake back in 1979. He was going to be safe outside of the room, and he was going to watch it to its very end.

The doors closed, sealing tightly. Amaris had stared up at the cage like device above her. One of the assistants walked up to her holding an aspirator in her hands. Don’t focus on what has happened since you’ve been here. Think about your family. Think about your friends. Anything strong enough to make the pain bearable.

Amaris looked up at the woman, who looked no older than her. Is that what you tell yourself everyday you go to work for that bastard?

The woman sighed, fastening the aspirator to her face, plugging her nose and making sure the device fit in her mouth. We all have our dues to pay.

The assistant then walked away. The three medical team members and the four soldiers walked up on the catwalk, taking a moment to prepare themselves for the torture they were about to witness. The doctor then pressed a series of buttons, lowering the table into the water. Amaris squirmed, having a fear of water. She never learned how to swim and didn’t enjoy water coming up past her shins. So being submerged had only added fuel to her anxiety and the adrenaline pumping through her body. She watched as the cage device then lowered into the water. He eyes widened as she watched the needles begin to warm up before sinking deep into her body, each needle piercing deep. She clamped her eyelids closed as molten metal filled the syringes, filling the spaces around her bones. Her skull, her spine, her arms, her chest, her pelvis, her legs, her feet, and her toes all felt they had been on fire. It felt hotter than fire, as if she had been sitting inside a pocket of molten lava.

Heart beat has increased to the two hundreds…. Three hundreds one of the assistants spoke, documenting the procedure. The doctor had monitored her vital signs. Her heart is failing, she’s going into cardiac arrest.

Her head pounded, hearing a sound similar to a train horn blowing in both of her ears. Her heart felt it was going to explode out of her chest. The darkness behind her eyes turned into a white light, the molten fire turning into numbness. Maybe this was it, her sweet release from the hell she was living through. All she had to do was accept it.

Wake up. came the still voice of a woman.

Amaris looked around, seeing the room she had been in, though time had stood still. People were up on a little walkway looking down at the table below them. The same table that she saw her body in, watching the water bubbling with the heat produced by the adamantium flowing through the syringes which were plunged into Amaris’ body.

Look at me, my honey badger.

Amaris turned her head, spotting a woman with long black hair and tanned skin. She wore a silver pendant around her neck, a fox charm resting at the bottom. Amaris had been stunned in her out of body experience, looking at the woman she had seen in the photos she recovered from the cabin. The woman who cradled her in her arms, who stood at her father’s side next to the cabin. Look at you, hunny. You’re beautiful.

Mom?

There’s not much time. she spoke, walking up to her daughter. She placed both of her hands on Amaris’ face, cradling her face. You can’t let Stryker have you as his mindless weapon. You have to fight back with everything you have.

Amaris looked up at the woman, also taller than her but not as tall as her father. You tricked dad into trusting Stryker.

Kayla nodded, then smoothing down Amaris’ now shoulder length hair. I know. What I did can never be undone. She then brought her hands down to her daughters shoulders. The same with you. What’s happening now can never be undone. But you can make it Stryker’s problem. You need to let go of your emotions now. Let go of everything that is keeping you sane now. You must become the animal within you if you want to survive.

Amaris narrowed her brows, observing her mother’s face. How-? Why-? What if I never come back from that? It was all too much to think about. She needed to save the children, free Remy, and escape the base.

Kayla zoned out for a moment, her face slightly turning as if to hear something behind her. She smiled, turning back to Amaris. You’re father’s here. You don’t have to worry about the children. You don’t have to focus on your friends. You need to focus on yourself. A loud pulse rang out in the air between them. Hunny, listen to me. In order to survive this, you have to let go of your humanity. It’s the only way. Kayla pressed a kiss to Amaris’ forehead, giving her shoulders a squeeze. Fight like a Howlett. Fight like a Silverfox. Fight because your life depends on it.

Amaris could feel herself begin to be pulled back toward the table. She reached her hands out toward her mother’s figure, watching as her image began to fade into a black vapor. I’m not strong enough! Amaris pleaded.

You are strong enough. Just let go.

The doctor threw his clipboard down, leaning back in his seat as he rubbed his temples. Her heart had stopped beating as a siren began to ring in throughout the base. Time of death-

Wait doctor… look.

The medical team stared at the screens that monitored her vital signs. The once flat line monitoring her heart status slowly beeped once, a small movement on the graph. One small movement became a small steady beat. After about ten seconds her heart beat raised to nearly one hundred sixty beats a minute. They looked at the table, mortified as they watched the cage device be destroyed and sent flying through the air. The soldiers pointed their guns at the woman as she rose out of the water, angry, pissed, and roaring. The soldiers began to fire at her, hoping the adamantium hadn’t cooled all the way before they fired their regular rounds at her. A bullet that grazed her forehead bounced right off, revealing the shiny metal alloy underneath. We’re going to die. The doctor whispered watching as her skin instantly healed.

Soldiers ran down the short amount of stairs, still firing at her. Amaris got out of the water, her only thoughts were fighting back and breathing. She approached the first soldier, sinking two adamantium claws deep into his chest, hoisting him up to use as a shield as she approached the second soldier, slicing his head off his body cleanly. The doctor had taken one of the soldier's guns hanging from his utility belt, shooting both of his assistants in their heads before shooting himself in a last act of mercy.

Logan had heard a commotion from the chamber, hearing the animalistic growling and the guns firing. As he approached, the door opened up, and the guns stopped firing. He walked into a grizzly scene, seeing several bodies thrown across the room, some in pieces. Fresh blood coated the floors and walls. As he looked up at the catwalk, his face fell, a look of shock on his face. He saw his daughter breathing heavily, hearing the pounding in her chest. Her claws were still out, though only seeing two per hand, long and metal like his. Lines covered her body along with the little bit of clothes she had been wearing to cover herself. Her hair was shorter than when he last saw her the night before, the long braids now discarded on the floor.

Magnificent, isn’t she? Stryker called, standing at a secondary door to the chamber. Just to think, maybe seven minutes ago, she was nearly as human looking as I.

Logan had been caught between running over to Stryker and getting his answers, or watching as his daughter looked around mindlessly as if she had been caught in her fight or flight response. Amaris? He called over to her.

She looked down at her now itchy hands, down at the blades that protruded out of them before hearing her name. She was quick to look over at the man in the black leather suit. She hunkered down a little, carefully stepping down the stairs two at a time as she sized the man up and down. She couldn’t recognize who he was, her mind filled with the thoughts of escaping and protecting herself. Her pupils were blown, appearing mostly black. The hair at the base of her neck stood up. She sniffed the air in his direction, trying to get a sense of what he was.

Logan froze as he saw Amaris in a feral state. Every little bit of her lively eyes had disappeared, swallowed whole by her pupils. It’s me, Amaris. It’s Logan. I’m your father. He pleaded with her, retracting his claws.

Stryker chuckled lowly as Yuriko walked up to his side. The same thing happened to you, you know. Except you may have appeared more human. I took the liberties of highlighting those animal instincts.

Amaris continued to approach Logan, seeing red, though her sense of smell took over her brain. The closer she got to him she could smell the old leather and cigar smoke that soaked his facial hair and skin. She bared her teeth as she growled, walking around her father. Logan watched her the entire time, noticing how her canine teeth had been replaced with sharper metal teeth. He saw the rivets in her hands that housed the claws she still displayed, ready to use. Mar. he breathed out in a silent cry. The woman continued to eye him before leaving the chamber, knowing she needed to escape.

Logan could have chased her down and rescued her from whatever had plagued her now. Or he could focus his efforts on Stryker.

It’s a shame, Wolverine. Stryker spoke, grabbing Logan’s attention. I used to think you were one of a kind. he watched as Yuriko entered the room, allowing him to make his exit. That’s a mistake I will never make again.

Logan ran toward Stryker, yelling as he unsheathed his claws. The woman stopped him in his tracks, sending him back against one of the columns. Logan recovered, standing up quickly as he eyed her down. She turned her palms upwards as each of her fingernails grew in size, having the same metal grafted to her nails. Holy shit.

he murmured to himself before his adversary came charging at him.

Meanwhile, Storm and Kurt traversed the facility trying to locate the children. Mystique told them they had been on a lower floor of the base, but it was hard figuring out where to turn. They didn’t have a lot of time on their side, so changing directions was going to be the hardest. As Storm and Kurt turned down one corridor, there was a small explosion. Bars flew across the space and a small purple smoke filled the space. Storm used her powers to eliminate the smoke to reveal a busted up Gambit exiting his cell. Gambit? She asked approaching him.

The man coughed a little as he looked down the hallway, seeing Storm approach him. Where one x-men be, more are to follow.

Have you seen the professor around? Or the children?

Gambit rubbed the back of his neck where the collar had been released only moments prior. I’ve only heard they are keeping him away from everybody else. The youngin’s should be right down here. He spoke, pointing down the hall past his cell. Tell me you found Mara.

Storm shook her head. Logan is looking for her. She spoke, then starting to follow Remy as he lead them down the hall.

Remy stiffened a little, his jaw tightening. They put her through some serious business, mon amie. Remy wished he could have traded places with her, knowing she had fought every step of the way while they had been at the facility. Her screams have been the only thing Gambit has heard.

Strom looked up at Gambit, then looked over to Kurt. She wanted to find the kids as quickly as possible and get them back to the jet. Gambit led the three down the hallways, coming to a stop when he heard their voices the loudest. Storm looked down, seeing a hatch in the ground. Right below it had been all of the children. Kurt teleported into the room below them, watching as the children stared at him. Kurt’s going to get you all out of there. One at a time. Storm instructed.

Kurt took each child, one by one, moving them from the cell below to the corridor above them. Storm examined each one of them, making sure they hadn’t been harmed aside from the stunning agents introduced into their bodies. Okay kids, grab a buddy, grab an adult, and let’s get out of here. The children grabbed the hands of their rescuers, Jubilee hanging tightly onto Storm as quick as the words left her mouth. Storm then led the charge, weaving through the corridors. A loud rumbling echoed down the hallway, making everybody freeze.

Tell me you have a quicker way of getting out of this place. Gambit asked as the two children with him grabbed his hands a little tighter.

Kurt shook his head. I have to see where I’m going, or have to have been there and within a short distance of it.

Storm sighed a little. We must be at least a few miles away front he jet.

Gambit picked up the smaller child, setting him down on his hip before grabbing the hand of the other child. Well, no time like the presence to pick up the pace.

As the group rounded the next corner, a piercing buzzing sound filled their heads, causing each of the mutants to drop down to their knees, covering their heads and temples. The two children with Kurt curled into his jacket as they held their heads. Gambit, in the mind numbing attack, made sure the child on his hip did not fall forward, tucking his head down as low as it would go.

Charles had connected to every mutant in the world, concentrating on where they were at and how many of them existed in the world. Pyro, who had been tired of waiting around in the jet, wallowed around in the snow. Bobby and Rogue held onto each other's hands, squirming on the floor of the jet. Logan leaned against the blood glass of the water table, holding one side of his head. Jean and an recently united Jean fell to the floor with each other as the onslaught of their minds continued on.

The only person not affected by it had been Erik. He had successfully breached the chamber Charles had been in. As he entered, he spotted the other mutant in the room with his old friend. The man didn’t speak, just simply looked at Magneto. Due to his helmet and its properties, he had been left unaffected by Cerebro’s influence. He stood between Charles and Jason, looking at his old friend. How long must you insist we continue to to play by their rules? He hummed a little, then raised his hands as he began to levitate. It’s only fair that we play by theirs. Erik had pulled panels out of the walls, shuffling them around and being mindful of Charles’ connection to the machine.

Once Erik had finished moving everything around, he lowered back to the ground. He gave a simple nod to Mystique. She entered the chamber, changing her form into Stryker’s. She walked up to Jason, beginning to whisper to him. There’s been a change of plans, Jason. We need to find the humans. All of the humans. Concentrate on finding all of the humans.

Erik smiled, turning back to look at Charles. Goodbye, old friend.

Magneto and Mystique then left the chamber as a new plan began to form. All they needed was a way out of the facility, to go back to their headquarters and form their next plans and goals.

Logan tracked Stryker down. The man had left out of a side exit, one of many Logan had been sure. He saw the weathered man removing a chain from a helicopter. Logan attacked quickly, grabbing the man and pinning him up against the helicopter, using his claws to just nick the man in his ribs. You think you can escape that easily, you piece of shit? Logan seethed.

Stryker groaned under the cut of the blades at his sides. You think that those people back there give a rats ass about you, Logan? he questioned. You and I did remarkable work back in the day. We worked together, on a team. They say time changes a man, but you and I both know that’s not true.

What am I?! What did you do to me?! Logan yelled, wanting answers.

As I recall, you volunteered for the procedure. Nature made you an animal. All I did was give you claws.

And Amaris? She just volunteered, too?

Stryker laughed a little, shaking his head slightly. She was traded, to put nicely. Logan’s claws in his other hand slowly extended, threatening to pierce through Stryker’s neck. I wanted to make a new weapon, one that I could easily conceal in plain sight, yet remain as deadly as possible. All under my control. Pietro Maximoff wanted his sister back. All parties involved benefited from this endeavor.

Logan yelled, pulling the man away from the helicopter and throwing him down on the ground. An alarm began to ring out across the valley. Birds began to fly and animals began rushing to higher grounds. What the hell is that?

Stryker looked up in the direction of the dam, his face sinking. The dam. It’s compromised. Logan looked down at Stryker as he spoke. In a few minutes, we will all be underwater. Nothing back there will matter anymore. If you come with me, I will give you all of the answers you want and you can what what you’ve always been. A survivor.

Logan had spent the last twenty years looking for answers about who he is or what he once was. He knew he couldn’t trust Stryker any further than he could throw him. His choice was clear. He picked the man up, setting him in front of the wheel of the helicopter. He then took the chain, wrapping it around him a few times and locking it in place. If I’m going down, you’re going down with me, bub. Logan was satisfied with his restraints, then turning back toward the base, running back inside.

He needed to make sure the others would get out safely. Find them, keep them safe, get them to the jet or to the helicopter, get out of dodge. That's all he could do. Yet, he knew there was one missing piece to this massive puzzle. It was finding his daughter. He hoped like hell he could find her, or die trying.

Logan ran through the base, running around relying on his senses to try and find the others. Soldiers tried to attack him, but he had successfully defended himself, as some decided he hadn’t been worth the trouble and attempted to flee the base to save their lives. He must have looked like a mad man, feeling sweat drench his forehead and cling to his hair. Suddenly there was a scrambling of feet running back toward the spillway they had entered through. Logan heard the massive wall of water beginning to approach the chambers they had been in, then spotting Storm, the professor, and the rest of the crew attempting to reach the door. He used his claws, slicing at the electrical that controlled the door, sealing it shut. Come on, let’s go this way.

The crew scrambled together, children running with their teachers and instructors, Storm and Kurt supporting the professor, Logan picking up an injured student as he guided them through the base back to where he had left Stryker and the helicopter. Logan looked around, mortified by the sight of the helicopter being gone. It was right here! I don’t understand!

A whirling sound began to fill the air. Scott and Jean both looked up first, spotting the Black Bird unsteadily flying through the air in an automated emergency landing sequence. It had bounced around a few times as it landed with great force not too far away. Kurt, can you please get the professor in there?

Kurt took a hold of the professor. Hold your breath. he instructed the elder man. They disappeared in a blue cloud of smoke, appearing inside of the jet where Kurt assisted the man into a chair, securing him with a seatbelt.

Bobby lowered the ramp to allow the others on up. The children were the first to enter, he helped them get into seats, making sure they were buckled in. Storm raced up the steps, walking up to the main pilot’s seat. She placed her hands on Rogue’s hands who still clung to the controls. You did amazing. Let go. It’s okay.

Storm took the seat Rogue had been in as Bobby grabbed her and moved her out of the way of the others. Scott took the other pilot’s seat. The controls had been damaged, leaving the x-men to try and figure out how to correct the problems. Though Storm, Scott, and Logan had been trying to figure out what was wrong with the jet, one of their members had left the jet. Jean? Charles asked, sensing her presence outside of the jet.

Jean walked out in front of the jet, using her powers to force the ramp up. She focused her energy into powering the jet back up, keeping to her oath as an x-men.

Go on out there and get her! Logan commanded Nightcrawler.

He tried, a small little cloud of blue smoke appearing around him. He shook his head, looking out at her. She isn’t letting me.

Charles closed his eyes, feeling Jean connect with his mind. While powering the jet and lifting it up, Jean also held back the tidal wave that approached them, pushing her powers to their limits. Don’t worry about me she spoke through Charles.

Scott looked over at the professor, seeing he had been in a trance. He knelt down next to the man, beginning to cry. Jean, please, don’t do this.

Charles’ head turned toward Scott, his eyes still closed.

Let me save you. It’s my choice. Let me save you. It’s my choice.

Once the jet was lifted high enough, Jean turned back to the tidal wave. She released Charles from their connection, dropping her hands. The water claimed Jean. She’s gone. Logan choked out, feeling the weight of the day finally hitting him.

Scott turned around, pushing Against Logan who only held him. Jean! No! he cried out, wanting to turn the jet around, wanting to go back for his beloved woman. The only person who made life worth living in his eyes. Jean! Scott cried out again, broken sobs filling his chest.

Logan looked out the windows of the jet, seeing everything covered in water. Everything was gone, and everybody left behind. Stryker, his men, Jean, and Amaris.

He closed his eyes, an overwhelming sense of despair filling him. They’re gone. he choked out again, feeling as Scott collapsed into him. Both of the men fell into a misery filled embrace. One man losing his partner, the other losing his daughter. She… She’s gone. Logan repeated, tearing streaming down his face.

Get out. Get away. Outside.

The words echoed in her brain as she stumbled around, running as quickly as she could through the strange place. She could hear the sounds of birds beginning to fill the cavity of the hallway she had been running in. She ran toward it, finding a door left ajar. Pushing it open, her feet connected with snow. Fresh, undisturbed snow. The light front he sun had been harsh, making her close her eyes a few times in order to adjust to the light. She looked down at her hands, blood still dripping down as it stained the snow at her feet. The realization of what had happened to her hit her, the searing pain engulfed her body, the sharp metal claws that were in her hands. She brought her hands up, taking in a deep breath before screaming again, feeling the pain that came with the metal.

Higher ground. Find higher ground!

The woman ran around the corner, looking up through the tree lines. She pushed herself forward, grunting and huffing with each stride she took, running as quickly uphill as she possibly could. She needed to get away from whatever place she had been as quickly as possible.

As she ran, she passed by another figure. Unknown to her, she passed by one of her students, John, on his own little mission. She didn’t detect his presence, knowing her safety had been the only thing she had been worried about.

Nearly seven minutes passed, allowing her to get up high enough to see over the dam, see the secondary lake that filled the valley. She fell to her knees, looking down at the foreign objects protruding from her hands. They shook as tears streamed down her face, an animalistic cry escaping her as she folded over holding herself together. She had been scared, confused, and freezing. All of these things made her prey in a predator's world.

Snow softly gave way in front of her. She looked up, her dampened hair falling in her face as she saw a pack of animals slowly walking up to her. They were of about medium sized covered in various shades of brown fur with large paws. One of the animals had made its way up to the woman, sniffing the air around her. It turned to the others, making soft clicking sounds. The animals then approached her, circling her before laying down against the woman. The first one had nuzzled its head on her lap.

She couldn’t understand the animal, but Amaris had been certain she could easily figure out what had happened.

She had been taken in by a pack of wolverines. She wasn’t alone anymore.

It’s okay, Amaris. You’re safe.

The woman looked out as the dam broke, filling the valley below it as the water moved. She simply moved in tandem with the wolverines as they got up and started moving. They would certainly know the way. To find good shelter, food, and water. The woman stood up, retracting the claws back into her hands as she followed behind them, making her way to their next destination.

Three long, agonizing months had passed. The mansion had completed all of its repairs, though parts of it still didn’t feel right anymore. The courtyard behind the mansion featured a tombstone for Jean, a small light pyre constantly lit in her honor. Scott spent most of his days there, talking to her and grieving her loss. Storm picked up a lot of slack from the loss of Jean and the disappearance of Amaris. Luckily for her, Logan stuck to his word, sticking around after the attacks and everything had settled.

He never gave out hope that his daughter was still alive. It could feel it in his heart. He went back to Alkali several times, trying to find where she had disappeared to. Though as the season changed to spring and the snow melted away, he couldn’t continue to search areas he had already been to to find her.

Logan, you know that if there had been a change in activity, I would have told you already. Charles spoke as he moved his wheelchair toward the doors of Cerebro.

Logan placed his hands on his hips, nodding. Trust me, I know. But something feels different. He told the man.

Charles spun his chair away. Looking up at the man, he gestured his hand out. What do you mean by this?

Logan exhaled, bringing a hand up to hover over his chest, making a small circle motion around it. I don’t know. It’s… He ran his tongue over his teeth, thinking about his words. Last night, I could see her. She was injured and scared. She was bleeding, something we both know is against her mutation.

Charles sighed, looking up at Logan. I haven’t been able to pinpoint her location. If you saw her hurt, and it’s possible your minds are on some level connected, it’s possible her healing factor is protecting her mind and forgoing healing her body.

Logan narrowed one eye, looking down at Charles. Which would mean?

It means her mind has either tricked her or protected her by thinking she is not a mutant or a human. He watched as Logan’s face changed. If that logic holds any value, that means cerebro would be useless in finding her. She would essentially be thinking like-

An animal. Logan finished before rubbing one of his temples. He felt as if he had failed her, he didn’t protect her. He let her go during the attack instead of fighting alongside her or forcing her to escape with the children. He was seven minutes late arriving to find her to keep the experiment from happening to her. She hasn’t lived her life yet. She hasn’t done anything to deserve this!

Storm walked up behind him, rubbing a soothing circle on his back. It’s also possible that her mind could release that hold on her and we will be able to track her down and bring her home. she spoke.

Charles always saw Strom as the voice of reason. She had often kept the team on their toes, the students well informed, and keeping the school running. Exactly my thoughts. He then looked back at the man. Logan.You need to ask yourself what would you do if this experiment has altered Amaris in any way beside the physical aspects of it. She could come back to us as, mentally or emotionally, a different person.

Logan wrapped one arm around STorm’s shoulders, holding her close to him. I just want my daughter back. I want her home, safe.

Logan and Storm both turned around, allowing Charles to continue on with his tasks for the day. Logan, I know that she is resilient. She will bounce back from what happened back at the base.

The couple entered the elevator, moving up to the main floor. I don’t see how somebody can just bounce back from something like that. I can’t remember it happening to me, or how I acted. What she is, is all my fault.

Storm shook her head, wrapping her arms around him. Stop blaming yourself for the faults of humans.

Rain began to pour outside as children re-entered the mansion. Logan looked out the windows, feeling more despondent that day. I’m going back to bed.

Storm nodded. I’m going with you.

Logan and Storm both entered Storm’s room, Logan moving his things into her bedroom a month prior. He didn’t have much, just his backpack he came to the mansion with, some shirts and jeans, his journal, and the box of recovered items from the cabin he lived in. Logan had stripped down to his boxers as he laid on his back, his arms curling around Storm who decided to wear one of Logan’s shirts. She fell asleep easily, the sounds of her breathing filled the room as Logan stared up at the ceiling. He had nightmares about the wars he had been in over the last greater part of a century or so. He had nightmares about his testing at the hands of Stryker. The nightmares he had now were call backs to seeing Amaris covered in blood, scared, and without her humanity. It haunted him to know that there was so much he could have possibly done to help her, though he had been all too late.

He eventually closed his eyes, succumbing to the sleep that he escaped from for the last few days.

Later that evening, the rain continued on. A storm wreaked havoc on the area as lightning filled the skies and the thunderous roaring of thunder followed it.

Go home. Go home. Hurt.

A woman breathed heavily as she looked up, peering around a tree. A flash of lightning filled the area again, highlighting the sign of Charles Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters. She exhaled sharply, holding her sides, stumbling from side to side. Her hands pushed at the gates, opening them as she began to walk up the white driveway. She leaned against a brick wall as she looked up at the castle-like school. Her hair was tangled and matted, her scalp feeling tender. Her feet hurt as rocks pressed into the flesh. Her back felt as if it had been on fire. But she had to press on, because the voice in her head told her to move.

The woman made her way up to the front steps of the mansion. She fell to her knees, curling up in a fetal position, unable to bring herself to beat on the door.

Hurt she whispered to herself.

The team had been alerted to the presence of a person at the front door. Logan nearly sprung up out of the bed, running out into the hallway. Storm stirred, waking up and following him out. She watched as Logan missed stairs as he nearly lunged himself down toward the door. Hunny, be careful. she called to him.

Logan brandished his claws as he opened the door, ready for danger. He breathed heavily, looking around outside. When he didn’t notice anybody right away, his shoulders relaxed a little, dropping as he retracted his claws. It was then he heard the sound of a weak heartbeat and soft snoring. He dropped down to his knees as the rain began to soak him. He brushed the hair out of her face, seeing the many cuts on her face, how they were still bleeding.

Storm approached the door. She watched Logan before covering her mouth. She couldn’t believe it, Amaris turned up at the front door of the mansion.

The woman opened her eyes, looking up at the man as he looked down at her, tears filling his eyes. Her lips parted again, Hurt. she spoke weakly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Baby girl, he cooed her. He watched her wince and cry out in pain as he scooped her up in his arms. Her eyes shut again as she curled into him. He turned back into the mansion, heading toward the elevator. Storm closed the door, calling for the team. Logan entered the elevator, looking down at Amaris as he could hear little whimpering sounds coming from her. I’m so sorry. he whispered.

Once the door was open, he rushed her into the infirmary. Storm was quick to get her set up on several monitors to establish her vitals. Logan stood next to her side, looking over her injured body. His jaw tensed as he looked down at her hands, seeing the metal rivets fastened to her knuckles. He noticed there hadn’t been a single scratch or buff on them. It was barbaric to see such hardware in her hands. He couldn’t even imagine how it was placed.

What’s going- Scott entered the room, his jaw dropping as he approached. Oh my God.

Charles filtered in next, moving his chair to rest behind her head. He observed her injuries, how weathered her body had been. He placed both of his hands on her temples, leaning in and pressing his forehead to hers.

Charles connected to Amaris’ mind. He looked around, seeing the chamber room back at the base. Amaris was standing next to the table with the cage above and the water below. The smell of iron and metal filled the stale air in the room. Amaris?

The woman turned around, looking at him. Her appearance had been similar to how she looked now in the infirmary except she hadn’t been wounded. She looked shocked to see him. Professor? Is that you?

He laughed a little, giving her a nod. Where are we?

Amaris’s face turned somber as she looked around. Stryker’s base. This is where it ended.

What ended, Amaris?

She looked back at Charles, her lower lip quivering. The pain.

What’s the last thing you remember?

Amaris turned around to look at the table. Leaning against it as she drug a hand over it. The pain was so intense. My heart felt as if it was going to implode. Then my lungs filled with water.

Charles walked up to her side, placing a hand on her shoulder. You’re mind is protecting itself from you. You must move past this memory.

She looked over at him, shaking her head. I don’t want to remember. I don’t want to remember anything about this.

Charles sighed looking down at her. Listen to me, you are severely wounded. You need to move onto the next part so you can heal yourself and wake up.

Wake up?

I don’t know how you managed it, but you came back to the mansion. Charles explained. You’re in a coma.

Amaris felt a tear run down her face. How long has it been?

Three months. You’ve been missing for three months. She exhaled deeply, looking away from him. Now is not the time to mourn the lost time. You must fight now. You need to move onto the next memory, find a way to let your body heal. Logan needs you to heal.

Amaris looked back at Charles as he spoke her fathers name. He’s still at the mansion?

Oh, yes. Charles replied, a warm smile on his face. Come back to us. Heal.

Charles broke the connection, moving his chair back. He looked up at Logan, giving him a firm nod. She’s still in there. She’s just stuck.

Stuck where? Logan asked, rubbing his face, the whites of his eyes turning red.

Her mind stopped time, during her operation when she died. he responded. Her heart stopped at some point of the operation, and she’s scared to remember or get past what happened when she came back.

Logan looked over at the table as Storm addressed some of her injuries. Scott placed an oxygen mask on her face, aiding her breathing. Logan knelt down next to the table, pushing her hair out of her face. He whispered to her. Amaris, I need you to hear me. Listen up, and listen good. Whatever happened is something you can’t change now. Good or bad, you have to live with what happened. He looked over her face again as the others worked on her. Come back to me, Mar. You can’t get out of this family that easily. You get back here, fight whatever demons are plaguing you right now. Claw, bite, scratch your way back to the surface. Be better than me. You have to be better than me. You made it this far, sweet girl. You can make it through this.

Amaris no longer saw Charles, but she could hear her father���s voice. It echoed, bouncing off the walls. She nodded, listening to him. She was a fighter, as her mother told her to be. As her father was now instructing her to do. She wasn’t going to go down without a fight. Let’s do this. She whispered to herself. She jumped up a few times, getting blood pumping through her veins. She stopped, then flexing her tendons to expose her new claws, four adamantium claws. She strangely admired them, seeing herself in the reflection. Let’s fucking go.

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[narrators-journal]

Months of tolerance v. 2.0

Decided to feed some of my more neglected fandoms again while I’m just vibing. So! Decided to rewrite one of my first scenarios for bsd! Hope ya enjoy this little update.

The orphanage Atsushi Nakajima had grown up in didn’t do many holidays. At least, not that he knew of.

The best Atsushi got in ways of celebration, was when the director would get him new clothes for Christmas every few years. So, the candy-colored, lovey-dovey time that was Valentines day or White day held no real significance to him, even when Osamu Dazai drug him out on his day off to ‘learn the basics’, as the bandage-clad brunette had said. Though, that lack of significance still wasn’t enough to spare the weretiger the pain that came from all of the teddy bears, candies, and cards that filled the shelves of the store for lovers, friends, and family to buy.

“Dazai, I...don’t think Valentines is a holiday I’m very...fitting for.” He sighed as he studied one of the plushies on the shelf in front of him. Even as the rail that he called a mentor shot him a pathetic pout. “Come on, ‘sushi. Valentines is for everybody! It’s not like the american tradition, you don’t need a romantic partner to partake! You can just get a gift for everyone in the ADA until you find yourself someone!” He reasoned, suddenly at Atsushi’s side to throw an arm around his shoulders and give him a too-bright smile. “Plus! Just think of how a knowledge of romance, even basic, can give you a one up on Akutagawa! If all else fails, this is, like, a tactical mission.” Which, got the weretiger to grimace, “What does he have to do with this? I don’t even like him as a friend.” He pointed out, but all Dazai did was pat his shoulder and give him a more sympathetic smile. As if the white-haired man was stupid for that. “Atsushi, it’s called ‘killing them with kindness’. Get Akutagawa a gift, confuse him and soften him up to you. At a minimum, it’ll chase him off and save you money on shirts.”

And, while the brunette’s point earned a deep scowl from the choppy-haired man, he didhave a good point. Even if Atsushi didn’t have much fondness for Akutagawa, the goth was probably the closest thing he had to a friend that he didn’t work with. And, if he got him to chill with the murderous jealousy over Dazai, he wouldbe able to keep a shirt for longer than a week.

So, he bought a cheap, glass-eyed black cat plushy as a gift for the dark-haired mafioso. However, that opened up another question to glare at the man. How to get the stuffed toy tothe wheezy man?

Which, was a predicament that haunted Atsushi through out the three days that led up to Valentines day. Damn it, is this really worth it? I don’t like Dazai’s cranky fanboy on the best of days, so why risk being killed over a toy? He thought bitterly as he glared down at the floppy feline laid crumpled on his cheap coffee table. Those plastic amber eyes allowed to stare up at the predatory cat emptily as he sat on the cheap, creaky goodwill couch the evening before the big day. The annoyance of the work day, paired with the disgusting knot of warmth, embarrassment, and vengeful anger enough to warm his cheeks the more he glared at the cat. I think I’d rather drink my own fucking piss.

With a low, feral growl, Atsushi got to his feet to pluck the cheap toy up from the coffee table and throw it out of his living room window hard enough to hear its soft body hit the lid of the dumpster across the street from his apartment building before he slammed his window shut once more with a decisive ‘humph’.

Atsushi could admit that Dazai was a very smart man with far more people skills than he had. But, the weretiger also refused to be plagued by confused, conflicted emotions just to placate a stab-happy psycho with a hate boner for him. So, he was happy to lay in bed and let the cheap cat rot in the dumpster.

But, regardless of that fact, he still found himself out in the chilly evening shadows to dig the plush cat out of the dumpster to be washed. Not due to an actual desire to give it to Akutagawa, though, simply because he’d spent money on it, and if he was truly going to ‘kill him with kindness’, it’d be easier if the plush toy didn’t reek of three-day-old take-out and dog vomit. And, when the next day came, he made sure to take the toy to work with him. That way, he could throw it at the goth when they inevitably ran into one another on the job and be rid of the dumb task.

Only for not even a single hair of the goth’s gradiented hair to be seen while Atsushi was out and about that day. Forced to deal with petty couple squabbles and emotional blow-ups with the toy cat in his pocket for no reason.

This is just proof I should’ve left this wretched thing in the dumpster. He fumed to himself as he walked home in the slowly dimming light of the setting sun. His sunset-colored eyes glued to the sidewalk to avoid the sight of even more reminders of his own loneliness. If I had tried to do what Dazai said, I’d be dead. This was an entire waste of my money, time, and mental space. The only thing giving Akutagawa this toy would’ve done is off-His thoughts were forced to a stop when he knocked someone on their ass thanks to, y’know, not actually looking where he was going. “O-oh my god! I’m so sorry, miss, are you hurt?!” He squawked, quick to offer his hand to the ravenette woman.

And, while she took his hand with little more than a shake of her head, Atsushi still raked his eyed over her familiar white dress, long, dark hair, and sickly familiar light steel-colored eyes- “Oh!...You’re Gin, right? Akutagawa’s sister.” He noted as he pulled her back to her feet, his words all it took to bring a tint of pink to her fair cheeks. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to run you over.” She said, her voice as light as a spring breeze. Which, the white-haired man couldn’t help but briefly compare to the rasp and snarl of her brother’s voice before he shoved those thoughts away to instead awkwardly laugh, “Oh, no no no, it was all my fault. I-I wasn’t looking where I was going, you see.” He stammered, initially tempted to try and help dust the woman off, but quick to decide against it in the realization of how inappropriate that might come off as.

“Is that yours?” She asked, her sudden question quick to replace his awkward shame with a brief flicker of confusion. At least, until he realized, much to his horror, that his floppy toy cat had been thrown to the sidewalk in his panic to help her up. “Uh, well...actually, I-I kinda...not really? I-it’s intended for...Akutagawa, actually?”

Understandably, the assassin gave him a distrustful eyebrow raise at that admission. Her soft voice hardened as she questioned, “No offense, but why did you buy my brother a toy? Is it intended as a gift for Valentines?” Which was a very fair question that left Atsushi to flounder like a hapless fish on a ship deck. The weretiger only able to manage a weak, “I...D-Dazai suggested it…” while his eyes flicked around the swiftly-darkened street to find anything but Gin to look at. All the while, the woman said nothing about how he fidgetted with the too-long tail that swayed behind him at all times like a tail and cooked in his own embarrassment.

Until, finally, she hummed with amusement laced into her words, “Well, how about I deliver it to him for you? Save you getting stabbed for something Dazai put you up to.” Which, got her a brief glance, but Atsushi knew better than to argue such a simple delivery method. So, he instead simply thanked her before he scrambled off towards his home with no other words to exchange.

Yet, despite how helpful and easy Gin’s offer made Valentines day, Atsushi’s anxiety was still high for the next few days. Each trip to or from work done with his senses on high alert for any sign of wheezing, coughing, or malicious aura. Only for the attacks to never come. Hell, the choppy-haired man didn’t even meet Akutagawa in a work context in the entire month or so that ticked by, let alone met a confrontation over the Valentines gift.

Maybe Aku really likes the gift? Or maybe Gin didn’t tell him who it was from. He mused as he walked home from the ADA in the dark evening hours. The street quiet and somewhat empty, air thick with anxiety over the mafiosos that liked to linger in the shadows and thin alleyways. Though, if Tachihara or Higuchi really had been around, they left Atsushi to his thoughts and the warmth that bubbled up in his ribcage.

Yet, before the weretiger could begin to poke at the mess of emotions that sat like a rock in his belly, something hard slammed into his head. Was I just shot? Was his initial thought after his body crumpled onto the pavement of the quiet sidewalk. Though, that idea was quickly squashed since if he’d been shot in the head, he wouldn’t have been able to think that thought, let alone watch the world spin and blur with the pain that throbbed in his skull. And, while the world did stabilize once more after what felt like an hour, the ache in his skull remained as he pushed himself back to his feet. And, while he tried to focus his eyes enough to try to find the culprit, all he ended up seeing in the darkness was a deformed, swollen can of his favorite soda

Which, was probably more confusing than a sudden attack on the weretiger since, well, soda cans don’t randomly fly at people’s heads, especially not when they haven’t even popped open. After all, they didn’t work like cartoon bubbly bottles, you couldn’t just pop a can of soda and launch it at someone like a torpedo. So, he was forced to think that someone had purposely hit him with it while he looked around the empty street as if he’d simply missed the culprit on his first scan. Kunikida? He throws stuff at Dazai, but I don’t know why he’d throw a soda at ME on- The date suddenly registered through the throb of pain in his head. And, a burning heat was quick to follow that realization to crawl up Atsushi’s neck and over his face. “Um?? T-thanks I guess?” He called into the shadows. Before swiftly booking it for home so that Akutagawa didn’t get a chance to maul him in person.

[zhaliacain]

Huntikmas Day 2- The team as build a bears

Sophie:

Sophie is Pawlette obviously, always the go to model BaB use to display their more sophisticated costumes and outfit designs. In terms of clothing I've gone for Sophie's more random style, she's got a pink shirt to get the colour in and a denim skirt which is kind of similar to the one she wears in show. And the converses she gets to keep but I suppose the laces should probably be undone.

Dante:

Based on a classic, back from the dead, everybody wants him... Dante is Pumpkin Kitty! Aside from that the colour scheme also goes very well with Dante's coat and hair and although the cat and pumpkin spice vibe might not quite be right, the other factors were too funny to ignore. Outfit wise there's no way BaB could ever manage the coat and it would be a crime to even try so instead we've gone for casual. Black V-neck, beige trousers and the boots kind of cover like half his wardrobe so it's a good fit.

Lok:

Playful Pup and Lok have the same kind of energy, friendly and a bit naive but equally a very sturdy and solid choice. Obviously Lok would need the Indiana Jones costume so I just had a bit of fun with the rest of his wardrobe. He's got a wholesome shirt but a bit quirky so he's not just got inspirational quotes stuck to his chest, the jeans like the show and the Ireland hoodie to remind him of home. He's also got the rainbow shoes because he is a rainbow himself and deserves the colour.

Zhalia:

Made for the bearcave but has somehow become a favourite with a younger audience, Zhalia is the devil bear. In this comparison obviously Zhalia was made to be an assassin/spy and has somehow ended up on a team predominantly populated by children. Keeping similar to the show, she's just got some jeans boots and a green tank top but when I imagine this all together it looks slightly punky and different which I think works.

Cherit:

Cherit is the timeless bear because who knows how old he is. Not much to say here other than the robes not only give him the white colour, but he also deserves to relax after thousands of years of human nonsense and being fired as a canonball by Eathon Lambert.

Den:

Ngl the main reason for the highland cow as Den is the crazy hair, it's uncanny. I just went a bit nuts with Den because it was really hard to pull an outfit together for him. Starting with the shorts… I can see him wearing them on a beach or something, I think he’d find them funny. Meanwhile the shirt was tricky because Den makes a lot of self confident jokes about being the best but he’s not got an ego, it’s just jokes. I don’t have time to analyse his self esteem issues here but I went for the mothman shirt because it’s the right level between his humour but not over the top. I think the mothman joke distracts from it being all about him. As for the shoes he’s just got some nice simple trainers to tie off this chaotic look.

Harrison:

Zombie frog because he’s been through the wars and he’s always looking rough. I’ve gone with the stranger things T-shirt because we all know how Harrison likes being in a club. I think it also adds to the edgy and antisocial but actually just misunderstood vibe he’s got going on. Black jeans to keep with the aesthetic and the same trainers as Den so they’re matchy matchy.

Honourable mentions!:

I considered the too hot to handle one for Den but going back to the ego thing I decided it was a bit too much. Meanwhile the take you out joke dates back in the Huntik fandom between Dante and Zhalia so it came close.