#cole is such a good friend and jay is one traumatized boi

[amour393]

@kraniumverse HAS COME UP WITH A CONCEPT AND I AM SCREAMING

consider: cole being a ghost is able to see jay and nya’s skybound scars when no one else can

haunted

***

Three weeks after Jay and Nya start dating again, Cole notices something...strange.

Well, another strange thing, he supposes. Jay and Nya have been acting off for weeks- calling out of training early, sneaking up to the roof at unholy hours to whisper, sharing looks no one else understands that seem to mean more than words ever could.

Everyone has noticed their behavior, but has had little success in understanding it. Zane had done his scans and both seemed to be in perfect health, no different from before, but no matter how much Kai asked Nya or Cole asked Jay, the two vehemently claimed that nothing was wrong.

The first time Cole notices something off, it’s a training-free day. Jay comes out of his room in a long sleeve shirt (which in itself was out of the ordinary- Jay grew up in the desert; Cole’s pretty sure he hadn’t owned a long sleeve shirt before Wu had recruited him) and jeans instead of his gi, and Cole has to do a double take as his heart stutters and he takes in a sharp gasp of breath.

The faint green imprint of a large hand wraps around Jay's throat, bright enough that Cole can easily tell what it was, yet dim enough he can't tell if it’s actually there or not. Cole freezes, his spoon halfway to his mouth as he stares. Kai raises an eyebrow at his look, and makes some remark that Cole doesn’t hear.

Then Jay looks over, panic running across his face, and he promptly leaves the kitchen two seconds later, claiming he had promised to help Nya with something.

During sparring the next day, Jay swears that he’s fine and had just suddenly remembered his commitment as he feigns left and jabs right, not meeting Cole's eyes. Nya confirms the story later, swiping a nonexistent lock of hair behind her left ear.

Cole knows they’re lying.

He’s pretty sure they know he knows.

***

Four days later, the team has finally trained enough to earn themselves a day trip, so they all pack up and head out to the west coast.

Jay wears long sleeves again, swearing he just doesn’t want to get sunburned. He runs his hands up and down his arms, shivering despite the warm sun.

Nya wraps her arms around his waist, muttering something in his ear. His shoulders ease, tension dissolving as a small smile grows on his face.

“Hey Lloyd,” he says, starting to grin. “Race you to the water!” He sprints away.

“Hey!” Lloyd calls, scrambling up and dashing to the tide. “No fair! You had a head start!”

Nya grins too. “Wait for me!”

She tears off the hoodie she wears over her swimsuit, throwing it at her brother as she runs to the water to join the others.

Cole stumbles back, trying to blink the image of ugly green acid marring her collarbone away from his swimming vision.

“Are you alright, Cole?” Zane asks, peering up at him, concerned.

Cole doesn’t have the heart to reply.

***

Cole knows Jay. He knows Nya. He knows them almost as well as he knows himself. He knows their favorite foods, the name of their childhood best friend, their love languages and their favorite candies.

He knows how they lie.

Sure, he wasn’t always totally sure when they were lying, but there was always a subtle sign from either of them that they were. He was almost always right.

But Cole has never been more sure they were lying than in this moment.

If Cole had a dime for every time he's barged into Jay's room, he'd have enough money to last a whole month's worth of city repairs. In all that time, in all the years, Cole had never once seen anything he shouldn't have.

Until today.

It's not like he's never seen Jay shirtless before.

It is, however, the first time he's seen it since Jay started acting strange, and now Cole things he knows why.

Ghostly green marks litter his best friend's back, his shoulders, his arms. Slash marks that look like they were from a katana slide from the top of his left shoulder blade to his right hip, though other lines and marks glow softly across his skin. A vivid green line rips across his side, torn like a knife was taken to his ribs and missed. Faint patches of skin glow a dim green, reminiscent of the marks on his neck, sickly bruises haunting his arms and back. Curved gashes press into his left shoulder, almost in the shape of a hook, and the same mark wraps around his head. Vibrant ghost green loops around his wrists, almost as bright as the neon coil around his right ankle.

The teacup Cole holds shatters as it slips from his grip.

Jay whips around with all the speed of the lightning ninja, freezing when he sees Cole.

For a moment, they stand there, horrified ghostly eyes meeting startled bright blue.

Cole can pinpoint the moment panic seizes Jay.

He pulls the rest of his shirt on remarkably quick, forcing a miserably fake laugh. His gaze darts to the shattered teacup, then back up to Cole.

"First Master, Cole, you scared the living daylights outta me." He forces another laugh, carefully walking over the teacup and hurrying past Cole and out of his room. “I-I was just on my way out, Nya asked me to help her figure out this glitch in the Roto Jet, so we should-”

He pauses when he sees that Cole hasn’t moved an inch.

In fact, Cole’s feet may as well be glued to the floor, for all he would even be able to move. No, he can’t- not with that image seared in his head, the cuts and the bruises and the wounds and the scars and the-

“Cole?”

Jay lays a hand on his shoulder, forcing Cole out of his frozen state.

Cole flinches, spinning around to face his best friend.

Jay’s eyes shine with concern, gazing up at him. He retracts his hand, hovering next to him. 

“Cole, are you okay?”

It takes Cole three tries to form coherent words.

“I...I’m...” He stares at Jay, ghostly handprint still rippling across his neck. 

Jay blinks patiently.

“Jay, what happened to you?”

Jay inhales sharply, rubbing his hands around his wrists nervously.

“I-”

“Don’t.”

Jay swallows. “Don’t what?”

“Don’t say that you’re fine.”

“But-”

“Jay.”

“I’m-”

“Jay.”

Jay shuts his mouth firmly, eyeing the floor.

“Don’t think you can lie to me. I know you too well.”

Jay’s gaze shoots up at him, eyes wide. He inhales again, biting his lip. Then e glances around, and shuffles back into his room, and closing the door behind him.

Cole’s heart starts to beat faster, the gravity of the situation weighing in his gut. “Jay?”

Jay slides down against the wall, pulling his knees up to his chest. “It’s-” His voice shakes. He bites his quivering lip, furrowing his brows. “It-” he tries again, shuddering to a stop all the same.

Cole slides down next to him.

“Jay,” he says gently, “you don’t have to tell me.”

Taking a measured breath, Jay speaks again. “It’s not that I don’t want to tell you,” he voices slowly. “I just- I-” 

Tears shine in the young ninja’s eyes, and Cole’s heart breaks in two.

“You just?”

Jay rubs his wrists. Rubs the green rings on his wrists. “I...I don’t know if you’ll believe me. It sounds so ridiculous, and I-”

“Jay,” Cole interrupts softly. “You know you can tell me anything, right? You’re my best friend, I’ll always believe you. If you want to tell me, you can tell me.”

Jay sniffles. “You mean it?”

“Every word.”

“It might...it might take a while. It’s kind of...” He blows out a long breath. “It’s kind of hard to talk about.”

Cole keeps his gaze locked on Jay, who glances up from the floor with shining eyes.

“It’s okay,” he says gently. “I’m here to stay.”

Jay bites his lip again, and then he tells.

Cole listens.

[purplerose244]

Thoughts journal Ninjago season 13!! 🖤🖤 (4/4)

Here we are, at the end of just another season of Ninjago! And I've gotta say, until now it has been very good, I think I'm liking this season better than Prime Empire and Secrets of the Forbidden Spinjitzu. I liked them too, but this one feels more complete and deep, also LILLY GOT A BACKSTORY HECK YEAH 😍😍

Prime Empire had one really great ending, so I'm very curious how this season will conclude! Spinjitzu burst? Some last minute plot twist? Cole and Vania confirmed...? 🙄

Here we go!!

THE DARKEST HOUR

So I'm guessing the guys aren't doing too good at the moment 😅

I know this is kind of a tense situation, but honestly Kai looking so confused at having to lead cracks me up 😂 "Do I have to say it? Is that what being in charge means?"

Lloyd: YOU

Jay: SHALL

Kai: NOT

Zane: BE GRANTED THE PERMISSION TO TRAVERSE BEYOND THIS POINT

I have no words, that was such an obvious reference in full Zane style so in character, I have tears. Beautiful 🤣🤣

Also they all look SO COOL 💚💙❤🤍

My ninja babies fighting together screaming NINJA-GOO!! Really this season feels like we're back in the old days, so cool! And they are so in sync, Kai lifting Lloyd up and Zane pushing others away and I LOVE THE FIGHTING ANIMATIONS 🤩

Poor Skull dude, he's trying to do his big bad guy monologue and he keeps getting interrupted 😂

It was cute that both tribes immediately refused to surrender, not sure if it was for pride or they actually care about their new ninja friends, but it was nice

Aahh, near death life experiences, the best way to elicit teamwork 👍 Nice scene, nice cute scene

Nnnnnyyyggg, Lloyd, that's the sacrifice look right there 😱 At least they just turned themselves in peacefully after reuniting the tribes... aaand of course he was lying, I hate that Skull dude 👿👿

THE ASCENT

Back to team Cole! Back to the Upply! 🖤 Quick guys, we're only three episodes left!! NEED TO GO BIG!!

Heeeeeyy, Wu back in business! I kinda missed him a bit taking control of the situation, it used to be him because he was the master. It really is a jump into the past this season! 🤩🤩

Sure let's go with the explosive cart, not like Cole and the other ninja haven't been piloting a falling apart rocket back to Earth before 🤷‍♀️

A Mech on rolleskates, why not? Does Cole even know how to go on those though? He was already out of the Tournament of Elements during Chen's Thunder Blade so I don't really know...

Lolz the monster was actually waiting staring at the wall, guess you don't get much fun in this mine 😅

COOL FIGHTING SEQUENCE COOL FIGHTING SEQUENCE COOL FIGHTING SEQUENCE 🖤🖤🖤

And a poor old couple of civilians traumatized. They need to be trained by the people of Ninjago City on how to deal with weird appearances 💪

I guess we're doing this 😅 Gonna be honest, this is the first very evident sweet look I see from these two. I like Vania, a lot, but another classic love interest? Uuuuhhh, Idk, Imma see the rest of the season and see what happens 🤷‍♀️

A baby dragon on a giant spider, one of my favorite things ever on one thing I fear... I'll let it pass just because Adam is a good boy 🕷🕷🕷

GO VANIA GO GIRL LET HIM KNOW WHO IS THE BOSS HERE!!! 💛💛💛

THE UPPLY STRIKES BACK!

I really like these DnD guys, they've grown on me, let's see what they have in store! 😁

Munce and Geckles under chains, ninja in a cage, the Skull dude has the control, we're back when we started... sucks to be a ninja sometimes 😅

Omg I'm loving that this dude is trying so hard to be menacing and he keeps getting ignored 😂😂 Aww cute, you think you're the first that wants to destroy the ninja? Such a special little snowflake 😘 Evil monologue, we've been going for 13 seasons now with various specials and a movie, we heard it already 🤷‍♀️

Also the reveal, and he's all "Your friend Cole is dead" and Lloyd "That's what they all say, buddy" 👌👌

Poor Cole just wants justice for his mom HELP EMOTIONAL AGAIN

I'm all for Cole's personal team, they should do missions together, like Jay's team in Skybound!... that technically never happened, BUT STILL COOL 🖤💙🖤💙

Oh boy oh boy oh boy got the swords, confrontation ready, BRING IT!! Ninja team is all in for this!! ❤💚💙🤍🌊

REVOLUTION!!!! 💪💪💪💪

Swords aren't usually Cole's weapon of choice... BUT DANG IT HE CAN SWING THEM, HOLY GARMADON!!! THIS IS THE FIGHTING SCENES I WANT!!! 😍😍

How is this the episode prior the finale? It already feels like the finale! What else is going to happen?

SON'S OF LILY

Oh with a title like this, it's a given that I will not survive. Oh boy, here goes, the FINALE!

Chaos, chaos, beautiful dragon of death and distraction, also gently reminder that Mino is also a very good boy 💕 Are the skeletons connected to the skull? Are they gonna stop reform when Cole defeats the Skull Sorcerer?

The swords are not actually magical? Huh, first weapon in this show that turns out to be a fluke, apart maybe the Dragon Armor of the Firstborne... that one stayed intact at least 😅

HERE COMES THE VALKIRIES!!! *classic related music plays*

THIS. FIGHTING. SCENES. ARE. SO. FREAKING. GOOD 😍 Also wow sensei, full kamikaze with a dragon? I guess the sacrifice gene really runs into that family 😅

COLE NO DON'T HURT ROCK BABY 😭

"Always." KIRBY STOP MAKING ME CRY WITH YOUR AMAZING VOICE ACTING SKILLS ALSO HOLY HOOLA GANG

THAT'S LIKE A SPINJITZU WITH THE TRUE POTENTIAL OMG HECK YEAH SHINE COLE SHINE!!! 🖤🖤🖤

A bit red, could mistake it for Kai's, but it's an orange earth lava burst so I understand

Cole: okay guys, done my part

Cole: wake me up when next season is out

LOOK AT VANIA BECOMING THE QUEEN WITH THAT BEAUTIFUL ATTIRE AND USING COLE'S MOTHER QUOTE BECAUSE SHE LEARNED SO MUCH FROM COLE AWWW 💛

Okay, since there weren't evident references to Nexo Knights this season, can I pretend Fungus shooting fireworks is one? Merlok used to do that almost at every season finale... IMMA PRETEND 🙃

She is so adorable, I really love her. Wished we've seen more of her bond with her father, it felt a little easy her giving up on him. Idk, Sky and Chen didn't have that much of a bond but she struggled a lot! But she is super cool and cute, I ADORE her 💕

This sounds like a pretty good experience for Lloyd who FINALLY spent a season without being scarred for life!!! He even met a princess who didn't plan his death!!! Montgomery things are getting better 💚

Well, that surprised me, I guess Cole and Vania like each other but not heavily? Just a very light mood, like they care a lot but no other step further. I'm very happy about this choice, you can see it as a couple if you want, but you can also say they are just good friends. Nice 👍

Oh no, Wu got his midlife crisis, SOMEBODY STOPS HIM 😱

Wherever the wind will take them okay, wherever the producers will decide to torture them 😗

Overall, great finale! 😁

FINAL THOUGHTS

I think I enjoyed Prime Empire's finale more than this one, but this season with all of its episodes was absolutely AMAZING 🖤

The Skull Sorcerer wasn't necessarily a bad villain, but the story kinda went into another direction in my opinion so his part wasn't fundamental. Which isn't a bad thing for me, it's actually new and exciting see the attention to the story instead of the villain, and I did enjoy how they made fun of how cliche he was being 😂

Vania was GREAT. Wished we had more time with her father to really establish what kind of bond they had, but overall I loved her, new best girl acquired 💛💛💛

FREAKING ROCK MOM!! FREAKING LILLY!! I'm so emotional just thinking about this family, omg, THIS is the content I want for Ninjago! Impactful, that makes sense, connected to the heart that makes you so much closer to a character! Finally the Rock family is getting more complex 🖤

I think this season really gave Cole justice, we got her mom's story, we've got him leading a team again, we've got him with a cool new power! 😍😍

For the other ninja it was okay, I really liked the shenanigans with the tribes and the cultures were really fun to explore. Was kinda like a side quest and for me didn't bring that much to the main story, but it was fun and it's fair, Cole had all the attention he deserved 👌

FIGHTING ANIMATION OMG HECK FREAKING YEAH 10/NINJA-GOOOO ❤💚💙🖤🤍🌊

Beautiful designs for the characters, in particular the Shintaro citizens, and also wonderful backgrounds and sceneries, that I thought were starting to lack but here seems much nicer to look at 🤩

What can I say? Ninjago still knows how to mess with my heart, and I'm so very happy about it. I think the so wanted Cole season was definitely worth it 🖤🖤🖤

Now, I heard voices about a possible Nya season... ABSOLUTELY YES, YES TO EVERYTHING, QUEEN GETTING HER OWN SEASON YES YES YES!!! 😍😍😍🌊🌊🌊 Besides that apparently Maya will come back, which is a dream coming true, if they give Nya the same attention they gave to Cole this season, I will be happy 😊

[ladyherenya]

Books read in July

With one or two exceptions, these were books were sources of FEELINGS.

Favourite cover: The Enigma Game, nut most of these covers are a good fit for the stories they represent.

Reread: “The Marriage of Mary Russell” by Laurie R. King, “Something Worth Doing” by Elizabeth and I also listened to quite a bit of Code Name Verity (by the same).

Also read: “Monster” by Naomi Kritzer.

Still reading:  A Wizard’s Guide to Defensive Baking by T. Kingfisher.

Next up: Stars Above by Marissa Meyer.

(Longer reviews on LibraryThing and Dreamwidth.)

*

Descendant of the Crane by Joan He (narrated by Nancy Wu): Princess Hesina of Yan, believing her father to be murdered, opens an investigation into his death. She’s driven by her aching grief and by her fierce desire for truth and justice -- for all her people, as well as in this matter of her father’s death. But the truth is much harder than she expects. I thought this was incredible, but sometimes stressful! Compelling characters, complex family dynamics (I especially liked the sibling relationships), intricate prose and worldbuilding, and startling twists that turned out to slot neatly in with the other puzzle pieces.

Riviera Gold by Laurie R. King: This takes place in July 1925, immediately after Island of the Mad. Mary Russell leaves Venice for Monaco, hoping to see her former housekeeper -- and discovers that Mrs Hudson has been accused of murder. As always, I love Russell's first person narration and her observations of the world around her. The historical scenery is particularly vivid: cliffs and ocean views, the Monte Carlo casino, expats with questionable pasts and connections, smugglers, Jazz Age artists, bronze casting. Moreover, it’s all relevant to the mystery Russell is unravelling. I also liked the indications that Russell and Holmes’ unconventional marriage works for them.

Fireweed by Jill Paton Walsh: A short bittersweet novel from 1969  about two runaway evacuees living on the streets of London during the Blitz. It’s very vivid, particularly the details about wartime London -- but there’s also a thread of ambiguity, because the narrator is looking back on a time he doesn’t fully remember and didn’t always understand. In the end, that becomes a bit unsatisfying, yet I like how the story allows one to fill in some of the gaps for oneself. I wish I had discovered this at thirteen -- I’d have appreciated it even more and been fascinated by the experience of fending for oneself.

Aurora Burning by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff: After everything that happened in Aurora Rising, Squad 312 have been labelled traitors but they are not going to let that stop them from saving the world. This is fast-paced, with some excellent twists and frustrating developments. Sometimes the action was engaging; other times my eyes glazed over. Sometimes the multiple POV was a strength; other times I felt it hindered me from becoming really attached to anyone. Sometimes I was amused by the characters, and other times the qualities which make them amusing became irritating. I think the things I liked outweighed the things I didn’t care for?

The A.I. Who Loved Me by Alyssa Cole: Trinity is working from home after a traumatic accident when she meets her neighbour’s strange nephew, Li Wei. This science-fiction romance has mystery, humour and moments of very pointed commentary. I enjoyed Li Wei working out how to act like a human again, and the interactions with Penny, the Home AI assistant. There is more going on here than either Trinity or Li Wei initially realises, which is great --- but that reveal indicates that some important, interesting parts of this story have been glossed over. I might have liked this more if the flashbacks had been expanded.

“Monster” by Naomi Kritzer (from Clarkesworld Magazine, issue 160): This alternates between Cecily’s time in China, looking for an old school friend, and the history of that particular friendship. I don’t regret reading (well, listening to) this, but I don’t know if I liked it. It is tense and uneasy, and left me wishing I had someone with whom I could discuss interpretations of the ending’s implications.

Gravity is the Thing by Jaclyn Moriarty (narrated by Aimee Horne): This grew on me. In the end, I loved it. For twenty years, Abigail’s been sent chapters of a mysterious self-help book. The story alternates between the present, as Abigail learns more about The Guidebook, and her reflections about her past -- particularly her brother, her marriage, being a single mother. At times this story is uncomfortable but the way everything is drawn together -- and seeing Abigail make sense of her life -- was unexpectedly satisfying. Compelling. I also liked the Australian setting, the Aussie audiobook narrator, some of the whimsical parts and how Maybe The Real Treasure Was the Friends We Made Along the Way.

The Enigma Game by Elizabeth Wein: Like The Pearl Thief, this is a prequel/companion novel to Code Name Verity. In late 1940, nineteen year old Jamie is an RAF pilot in northern Scotland. His friend Ellen, a driver for the aerodrome, is staying at the same pub as Louisa (newly-orphaned, half-Jamaican), who is caring for an elderly German woman. Together they discover a way to keep Jamie’s squadron ahead of the Germans. I loved this. A powerful exploration of identity, secrets and the problems of prejudice. I was delighted (and also devastated) by how this story fits in with Code Name Verity. The bits about flying are lovely.

Hamster Princess: Giant Trouble by Ursula Vernon (aka T. Kingfisher): After Ratpunzel, Harriet’s next adventure involves magic beans, a giant bunny and a hamster who wants to form a band. There is something very soothing about making tea. You have to concentrate on the whole process, and then you have tea. Even someone as decisive as Harriet had to make tea sometimes and think things through.

Kind of Cursed by Stephanie Fournet: Millie has been dealing with a lot -- losing her parents, gaining guardianship of her younger siblings, a miscarriage and a relationship break-up. She’s decided to avoid men for the next decade. But it’s hard to avoid Luc, who is overseeing the renovation of Millie’s kitchen. Watching Millie find the support, comfort and happiness she so desperately needs gave me warm fuzzy feelings. This has the right I-need-a-hug-vibe, the right ratio of emotional hurt/comfort, for me. In another story, I might have had issues with how quickly the romance becomes a serious relationship, but the characters’ choices made sense in context.

Fall Semester by Stephanie Fournet: This romance between a depressed literature professor and a graduate student with a terminally-ill father was an interesting experience because I was aware of its weaknesses and yet it was such a compelling dose of FEELINGS that I really enjoyed reading it. I also have something of a soft spot for stories about universities -- and perhaps was feeling tolerant, knowing it was the author’s first novel. (Weaknesses included: the prose style is serviceable but bland, an odd fit for protagonists with backgrounds in literature/poetry; their serious issues deserved more focus; and some of Malcolm’s reactions have uncomfortable overtones of entitlement.)

You First by Stephanie Fournet: More compelling feelings, which kept me reading, but in hindsight, didn’t completely sell me on the age-gap or the short time-frame. If only it hadn’t largely skipped over showing the characters navigating an interesting challenge introduced in the final act in favour of an epilogue which picks up some time later! Seriously, if you’re going to throw in that particular complication, then I at least want to watch them deal with it. I’m not grumbling too much. I cared enough about seeing the characters’ situations improve, which counts for something. And what did I expect, reading three romance novels in a row?

Like No Other by Una LaMarche: Two teenagers meet in a New York hospital elevator during a blackout. Devorah is a Hasidic Jew, Jaxon is black. Devorah is not allowed to socialise with boys outside of her family, let alone anyone outside her community, but she and Jaxon keep finding ways to see each other. This was fascinating, but also frustrating -- I was frustrated with Devorah’s culture for making her feel like she would be disowned if she put a foot wrong, and also frustrated, perhaps unfairly, with Jaxon for not fully appreciating the risks Devorah faces. However I liked the ending a lot.

[aweebwrites]

Move on Dragons Ch23

“Of all the times to be sent back to…” Cole murmured as he looked down at his translucent green hand, finding himself to be a ghost all over again.

He was sure the only reason he wasn’t having a more severe reaction was because of the shock of the whole situation. And he had to keep focus on that, on emotions or else he’d lose his mind over his inability to physically feel.

“H-hey! It’s ok! I mean, Little G got reversed pretty quickly so maybe you will too?” Jay says hopefully as Cole frowned.

“Lets hope so. I’m…” He swallowed. “I’m not willing to go through this twice… That and… There’s no Ying Yang moon for a long time to come.” He says, clenching his fist and feeling nothing.

He could feel the shock slowly bleed into slowly increasing panic. Despite having his other two senses, he felt muted, felt as if he was missing a limb- but all over. A barely there whimper caught his attention and he looked down at Rux as he looked him over in apprehension, frozen to his spot on the ground from where he fell from Cole’s hands that couldn’t hold anything anymore.

“Don’t worry about it bud. It’s fine.” Cole reassured with a tight smile.

“Holy shit! Cole! Why are you a- a ghost again?!” Kai blurts as he stepped out with several blankets and pillows in arms, his wings helping him hold them.

“There’s not much we can do about this right now so I suggest we focus on the dragons for now.” Zane says as he walked over and picked Rux up, the dragon far more hesitant with him than he was with Kai or Cole. “If we aren’t careful, they could develop traumatic memories. And while we can’t always prevent such a thing, we should put our best efforts into trying still.” He spoke low as panels in his back opened up for a metallic wing to pull free, half wrapping around Rux as comfort.

“Zane’s right.” Cole agrees, glancing at his friends looking at him in worry. “We’re supposed to help them grow up into better dragons than they were. Trauma isn’t the best way to do that. You guys take them upstairs.” He told them and Zane nods and went.

It wasn’t that he didn’t care or hold concern over the fact that the amount of time he’s been a ghost has long passed how long Little G was a human. No, it was the opposite. He wanted to stay by Cole’s side but someone had to be level headed once it comes onto the dragons… That and he knows Cole doesn’t want them see him slowly coming apart at the seams like he was. Especially not Rux.

“... Cole…” Nya began.

“No, it’s ok. I just need a moment. Go help out Zane.” He reassured her with a tight smile before he passed Kai by to head into their room.

“Nix, you be a good boy and look after your brother for a little while, ok?” Jay says, looking down at the dragonling who was looking around nervously at the tense air around them.

Nix blinked at him as he walked him over to Nya, letting her take him.

“Don’t worry. I’ll be back in a jif.” Jay promised with his normal bright grin before nodded at Nya to go.

She hesitates then does so, Pixal following after a moment.

“I’ll talk to him.” Tempest says, turning around to face Kai, the latter frowning.

“... Jay, make sure to keep him in check.” Kai spoke after a moment’s contemplation, his tail flicking back and forth with underlying anxiety.

“I will. Rux needs you for now.” Jay nods then passed him by too and Kai watched him go, noting how his stride changing mid walk as Tempest took over again.

He then breathed smoke through his nose before heading upstairs.

Tempest walked into the room, finding Cole curled up on his bed- or rather, half way through, his breathing fast as he clutched his hair. He tilted his head to the side then walked in, perching at the edge of the bed and curling his tail half into his lap.

“Hey, what’s being a ghost like?” Tempest asked, ignoring Jay as he yelled up a storm, threatening to strangle him.

Cole didn’t respond but Tempest waited patiently, his slitted blue eyes on the tip of his tail, watching it flick back and forth.

“...Hell.” The quiet response came some time later. “... It’s… Like being plugged out of your body… You can see… And hear… Think… And feel emotions… But…” Cole looked up from his arms, looking run down and weary, his now equally green eyes looking distant and tired.

“That’s it. You can’t… Fell… Or smell… Or taste… You can’t… You just… Feel untethered… Like a helium balloon.” He murmured into his arms. “And… If I’m not careful… I’ll float away… And disappear…” He gritted his teeth at that, gripping his arms tightly- not that he could tell he was without looking.

“And you’re afraid that’ll happen to you, right? That you’d disappear and there’s no coming back?” Tempest asked him, tilting his head to the side.

“... Yeah.” Cole’s barely audible answer came not long after.

“But that won’t happen.” The blue half serpentine, part dragon, barely human spoke factually and Cole frowned. “‘How do I know that?’” He guessed before Cole could ask.

“Haven’t you realised? You have annoyingly persistent friends, family that would tear this world apart before they let that happen to you, before they let you fade away. This rich coming from me but, have some faith in them, will you?” He huffed. “The dragon elders still have Nix’s time forward powers so they could try that. And if that fails, we have contact with an interdimensional traveler slash inspector or whatever the hell that girl- Vortica- is. She’s bound to see this happen at least a few times and would know how to fix it. And even if that fails, they’d all find a way to fix this. Even if it meant marching into the Departed Realm and asking the First Spinjitzu Master himself for help.” Tempest reminds and Cole couldn’t hold back a huff at his bold statement.

“Don’t believe me? Then take their word for it. You know your friends better than I do but I know they’re idiotic and troublesome enough to actually find themselves infront of the First Spinjitzu Master if you needed it.” He told Cole, glancing at him through the corner of his eyes. “And you know it.” He added, using his tail to point at Cole and the Earth Ninja couldn’t deny.

His friends, they were all stubborn enough to pull off something like that. And knowing that… Cole smiled as warmth filled his chest, spreading through him and making him solid.

“... Thanks…” He told Tempest as he uncurled himself, feeling infinitely better than he previously had. “You know, you’re pretty good with this whole pep talk thing. Why not do it more often?” Cole joked and Tempest tsked.

“That’s way too troublesome and tiring.” He immediately declined and Cole chuckled. “Don’t make it too much of a habit either. I only did it because this idiot would probably make things worse. He’s desperate enough to help his friend that he’s willing to try- even if he knows he’d fail.” He huffed, ignoring Jay’s yell of hey.

Cole huffed.

“You kno, you can stop with this whole ‘his friend’ business. I’m your friend too you know.” Cole says lightly and Tempest hated that he froze so suddenly. “Heck, we all are. You should know that by now.” He huffed as he shifted to the edge of the bed, nudging the other male with his shoulder, pleasantly surprised to find that he was actually solid enough to do so.

“... Yeah whatever.” He huffed to brush it off before he retreated, shoving Jay out.

“Rude much.” Jay huffed, crossing his arms. “... You alright?” He asked tentatively after a moment.

“Yeah. I’m alright.” Cole smiled then got up and stretched on reflex. “We better go help out the others. Rux and Nix must be worried.” He reminded and Jay nods as he stood, a smile on his face to hear in his friend’s voice how much happier and confident he was.

“Yeah. Let’s go.” Jay says, leading the way.

Cole headed above deck in the living space and wasn’t at all surprised to find Rux curled up in Kai’s arms from where the latter was seated by the half opened doors, if only to stamp out the last of Rux’s fright of the loud thunder by reassuring him that it was just that: thunder. Nix was also with him, both of them using Kai as a sort of glorified bed, no matter how small. He seems much calmer with a familiar figure and his brother. The others all perked up at the sight of him, wanting to ask questions but not sure if they should interrupt this moment of peace he seems to just have found. He walked over to where Kai was, wary of the rain but Kai had made sure to raise a wing to block any stray drops of water as he closed the door again with his tail. He then sat next to him and reached out to Rux, stroking his head.

Rux’s head lifted as he opened his eyes at the familiar touch. It was confusing for him. He couldn’t smell the other strange dragon he found himself attached to. He remembered before, remembered his power, remembered how this one had changed and looked him over, noting he looked… Different… He hesitated then gave a low, questioning coo.

“It’s ok Rux. I know I probably look different but it looks like I’ll be like this for a while. I won’t always be able to pick you up or touch you anymore but you don’t have to worry about that. I’ll be back to normal in no time.” Cole murmured low, knowing he probably couldn’t understand him but wanting to reassure him anyway. “You just be a good little dragon and be happy, yeah? It’s not every day you get to relive childhood twice after all. So let’s make sure you enjoy it to the fullest.” He smiled, leaning down to gently butt their foreheads together and Rux gave a chirp before switching onto Cole’s arms, nuzzling him.

“Oh thank god.” Kai sighed, taking a deep breath. They’re really growing. I could barely breathe.” He relaxed then more still once Jay picked up Nix off of him and sat next to Cole so both brothers could be close.

“They are. Soon, they’ll be the ones picking us up.” Jay chuckled, nuzzling Nix as he gave a happy coo.

“So what’s the plan? I don’t think you’ll be turning back on your own…” Nya asked as she and the others joined them on the ground.

“Well, the big dad and Wu still have Nix’s time powers contained and with them so we start there tomorrow once the storm is over. And if that fails, we have Vortica’s contact. Maybe she knows how to reverse it.” Jay told them and the three nodded at that, finding that both options are smart ones.

“Don’t worry Cole, we’ll fix this, even if we have to resurrect Lloyd’s grandfather to help.” Nya told him determinedly and Cole chuckled before all out laughing, his smile wide.

All but Jay looked at him confused- but happy to see him genuinely laughing in this situation.

“You know...” Cole began, swiping nonexistent tears from the corner of his eyes, his smile still wide and warm. “A friend of ours told me you might do that.” He hummed.

“Of course we would.” Lloyd shrugged, leaning forward on his hands planted in his lap. “That’s what family does.” He grinned, showing off large fangs.

“Darn right that’s what we do!” Nya grinned too, slinging an arm around Lloyd’s neck and he laughed.

Cole smiled as he scratched under Rux’s chin, hearing him purr as he did. Yeah. Everything would turn out fine, he was sure.

_____________

(Whoop a little late here. My sense of time is warped af. But hey! Tempest to the rescue! I wouldn't say he's shy but as a whole nother personality that's more like a whole new person inside Jay, he's new to most concepts. That and actually feeling emotions rather than bat them aside with a smile and carefulness can be a little overwhelming for him. Anyways thanks as always for reading!!!)

[gvbejvmes]

Drabble-a-thon: Four, Song

Title: Like a Cole Porter Song Rating: PG-13 Relationships: Gabriel/Johnny, Johnny & Kaleidoscope Johnson, the Alphabet City Art Collective Trigger Warnings: None?  Brief Summary: Well, did you evah? What a swell party this is.

“Are you sure I have to be here?” Johnny asked, looking completely and totally uncomfortable. He looked absolutely gorgeous in his linen suit, and if they were going to a 20’s themed party at anyone else’s house he’d be fine, but they were going to Kaleidoscope Johnson’s Annual 30th Birthday Party at his Upper East Side Penthouse. 

It wasn’t that his husband didn’t get alone with his mentor. It was more like his mentor made him very uncomfortable, To be fair, the first time they met had been… eventful and there had been slightly more groping on Kale’s part than Gabe had anticipated. Ever since that first meeting Johnny was just a little… wary around the older man.

Gabe snorted, already wishing he hadn’t taken Kale up on his dare and had opted for a linen suit, too. Don’t get him wrong. He knew his legs looked fabulous in his flapper dress, he just was a little cold and a little wishing that he’d worn nylons and not gone commando. He felt a little like a frat boy, and was already uncertain about how he was going to sit down without giving anyone a free show. 

“You know the rules, Jay. If you don’t have a date for Kale’s birthday gala, he pairs you up with another single for the night. And Velvet had to go to Seattle for her sister’s wedding. Otherwise, no offense, baby, but she would have been my first choice in date.” 

His husband sighed. “I still think she made that up, and don’t try to show me her Instagram posts again.” He said as they walked into Kale’s penthouse, which felt a hell of a lot like walking back in time. If he didn’t know any better he would have thought they actually were in the 20���s or 30′s. Everyone was decked out in their 20’s finest. Everywhere was gold, and glitter, and booze. So much booze. Or more specifically so much fucking champagne. There was even a live jazz band. When Kale threw a party, he didn’t know how to be subtle. He always went all out and then some. Fuck, there was even a receiving line.

The party was already in full swing because when he and Johnny walked in there were only a couple of other people ahead of them. When they got to the head of the line, Kale was sitting in a huge golden oak rocking chair in a white linen suit, a matching hat perched on the top of his head. There were stacks of gifts on either side of him. “Oh, look at you!” He squealed in delight, making spin motions with his hands. “Do a twirl for daddy, and I’ll give you a treat.”

He could feel his husband blinking and staring at Kale. “Well, that’s disturbing.”

Laughing, Gabe gave a twirl so he could see the full extent of Gabe’s outfit. “It’s your birthday, Kale. We’re supposed to be giving you gifts.” He pointed out with a raised eyebrow, but he wasn’t going to lie, Kale did give the best presents.

Kale grinned. “Oh, Gabey. You brought me the best present. You always bring the best presents.” His eyes went over Gabe’s shoulder, obviously staring at Johnny. “Do I get to touch or is it just for looking?”

“There will be no touching!”

His husband almost sounded hysterical. Gabe turned, and pressed a kiss to his husband’s mouth before turning back to Kale. “You said something about having a present for me?” 

“That’s right. Your gift.” They were both ignoring the indigent sounds coming from Johnny. Reaching behind him, he produced a long thin box and handed it to Gabe. “For you, Gabey. And it works.” 

Opening the box, he found a long cigarette holder. “Oh, Kale!” He grinned and pulled it out of the box, tossing it to the side with his friend’s gifts. “It’s perfect.”

Kale offered him a benevolent smile before waving a hand in their direction. “Go on, enjoy the party.”

Taking Johnny’s hand they went directly to the bar. “See? It wasn’t that bad.” They didn’t have to even order, the bartender just handed them two drinks.

“I was told that both your glasses are to remain full of giggle juice all night.”

They both took a sip, and then immediately looked at each other. “And this is why we didn’t drive.” Gabe said before taking another sip. 

Before Johnny could say anything, Steven, the annoying twink from the collective, approached with Katie, a no nonsense middle aged woman and another member of the collective.”There you are, Gabey!” And, ah, Steven must have also been on Kale’s list of people he wanted the bartenders to get very very drunk. “Kale has an assignment for us.”

“The party isn't at a Kale appropriate level yet.” Katie explained. “We need to play ‘well, did you ever.’”

Gabe groaned. “No.” 

Katie grinned. “Yep.” She linked arms with Johnny. “C’mon, handsome.”

“Sorry, baby!” Gabe called out as he downed his drink and waited for it to be replaced with a fresh one before letting Steven link arms with him and dragged him into the crowd of people. Not quite knowing what to do with his cigarette holder, he tucked it behind his ear. 

“Have you heard? Professor Munch ate his wife and divorced his lunch?” 

Two people turned and looked at Steven in complete and utter surprise, which was Gabe’s cue to act completely ridiculous. It wasn’t exactly difficult given how he was dressed. “Well, did you eva’.” He drawled out before smirking at one of the guests and giving them a small curtsey. “What a swell party this is.”

They left behind the surprised and laughing couple before moving further into the group. “Have you heard that poor dear Blanche got run down by an avalanche?” Steven asked once they were in front of another large group of people. 

Gabe grinned when people turned around to look at them. “Oh, don't worry, she’s a game girl you know, got up and finished 4th.” He gave a salacious wink to the small audience they’d acquired.“That girl’s got guts.” He said, which earned a round of laughs. 

“Well, did you eva’.” Steven laughingly called out, which caused more giggles. 

And that was the point of this game. The whole point of the game was to say ridiculous things until party guests started laughing and having as good of a time as the drunk idiots running around the party were. Kale would be coming out soon to really kick off the party. He just needed them to spice things up a little bit. And then… the music changed, which Gabe knew meant that it was show time for Kale.

Scanning the crowd of bodies, he couldn’t find his husband, which made him groan. That couldn’t be a coincidence.There was no way in hell that was a coincidence. Shit. Where was Johnny???

The lights around the jazz band dimmed, and Gabe quickly finished his drink and set it down on a nearby server’s tray. Steven was still attached to him, so he passed him off to a stranger before moving towards the stage area in time to see Kale step onto the stage in a bright red suit. God, how many outfit changes was he going to have?  Last year he had five.

“You could have a great career, and you should.” He crooned out, and Gabe’s stomach dropped. His mom had been a Cole Porter aficionado. He knew what song this was, and his husband was going to kill him. “Yes, you should. Only one thing stops you dear: You're too good; Way too good!”

And suddenly Katie was pushing Johnny onto the stage and into Kale’s arms. “Fuck.” A waiter pressed another drink into Gabe’s hand and if it hadn’t been for the bubbles he would have downed it. Instead he finished it in three big gulps as Kale continued to sing. 

“If you want a future, darlin', Why don't you get a past? 'Cause that fateful moment's comin' at last…”

Gabe winced at how uncomfortable Johnny looked. Oh, he was going to have to make it up to him. He knew Kale enjoyed making Johnny uncomfortable, but this was on a whole new level. He was suddenly glad that he hadn’t gotten his mentor a gift because this was ridiculous.

“We're all alone, no chaperone can get our number. The world's in slumber -- let's misbehave!!!”

The crowd around Gabe cheered as Kale dipped Johnny, going in for a kiss and somehow Johnny managed to squirm out of his grasp and landed on his ass. Shit, everyone around them thought this was scripted. He set his empty down and made it to the stage in time to see Johnny scramble to his feet. But he wasn’t running away. He was staying on stage. Wait... was this scripted? 

“There's something wild about you child that's so contagious. Let's be outrageous--let's misbehave!!!”

Gabe made it to the stage in time to see Kale pull Johnny back into his arms. His husband still looked uncomfortable, but he wasn’t running away. He looked like he was... humoring him? And then he... he... winked. What the fuck! 

“When Adam won Steve’s hand he wouldn't stand for teasin'. He didn't care about those apples out of season.”

The people around Gabe were laughing and cheering, but he still had no idea what the hell was going on. Once again, Kale tried to kiss Johnny, and once again Johnny got away from him. And this time, Johnny slipped off the stage and right into Gabe’s arms, looking like the cat who ate the canary. 

“They say that Spring means just one thing to little lovebirds. We're not above birds. Let's misbehave!”

Kale made some comment about him being a spoilsport, but Gabe only had eyes for his husband. It took him far too long to realize that they’d started dancing to Kale’s singing. Fuck, what had been in those drinks? His arms were looped around Johnny’s neck while Johnny’s arms were wrapped around Gabe’s waist. “What was that?” He asked in total and complete confusion. “When did you and Kale rehearse that?” 

Instead of responding, his husband just pulled him closer. “I don’t want to talk about it.” He said, looking slightly traumatized. 

Gabe laughed. “You’re full of surprises, baby.” He said before burying his face into the crook of Johnny’s neck, his cigarette holder clattering to the ground by their feet.

The other man’s lips pressed against his ear, and he crooned out softly, “You know my heart is true, and you say you for me care... Somebody's sure to tell, but what the hell do we care? Let’s misbehave.”

Pulling back to get a better look at him, Gabe shook his head. “Who are you and what have you done with my husband?”

There wasn’t a response, but he didn’t expect there to be one.

First Song: Well, Did You Evah? Second Song: Let’s Misbehave

[revlischarm]

In a weird way I first time heard about your idea of the evil ninja. How ended every one of them?

Hooo boy, there’s a lot behind all of them. Just remember that almost everything that happens in the show still goes on, minus some obvious things. Going in order...

First was Kai, who succumbed to the power of Chen’s staff. He hid this fact for a while, though, at least until Chen was defeated. He was put on Chen’s Island actually after this-

Kai does actually join forces temporarily with who’s left during Hands of Time, but is quickly put back on the island once it’s clear he has no intention of repenting.

So next would be Jay, who was tortured by Nadakhan to the point of breaking/brainwashing. He joins his crew and starts a rebellion within, and overthrows Nadakhan to become captain himself. The ninja do their best to bring him back to his former self, but he no longer wants to be a ninja anymore, preferring a life of piracy. Jay is actually the least ‘evil’ of the ninja.

Next is...uh, Cole. I always get Cole and Zane mixed up time-wise

Cole doesn’t make it through the rift, and winds up tied to Yang’s temple. The remaining ninja visit him as frequently as possible, however he’s eventually driven to a point of madness by loneliness. He craves company—hes just- he’s so lonely. So Cole’s not really ‘evil’, per say, he just wants to be loved please love this boy.

Zane is a close next, and the only reason I’m able to place him chronologically after Cole is because in Decoded Cole wasn’t a ghost. Ofc in this au that’s changed-

Nya and Lloyd manage to free Zane from the Overlord programming, however it takes much longer without the help of the others and in the process some of the Overlord’s programming becomes entwined with Zane’s. Zane flees from the team soon after this, because he starts to really despise humanity. He actually rebuilts a lot of the nindroids, including mindroid and Cryptor, and they hole up in a small village somewhere.

Lloyd is next. When Lloyd confronts his father in the prison instead of fighting him he just breaks down and hugs him. This surprises literally everyone. Lloyd has just lost so many people, and he can’t take it anymore. The second he sees his father is back, it’s like a lifeline to him and he wants to do whatever he can to maintain that lifeline—even when it means giving up his own humanity.

Garm is suspicious at first but he sees how absolutely distraught his son is he understands that it’s no trick. Lloyd joins his father’s side and garm helps him unlock his oni side, and they take over ninjago(ish).

There’s next to no hope after Lloyd is lost to the darkness.

Now, Nya is still good in this au, but she’s extremely traumatized. She first lost her brother, then soon after she loses Jay, and then just...she loses so much and is left almost alone. She starts up a resistance with whoever’s left, but she’s still so lonely and sad and misses her friends.

That’s the story I got so far, but I can’t do it justice all on here. Here’s the link to the full story i along with others came up with, I suggest you read it for a better understanding-

https://revlischarm.tumblr.com/post/186015350163/tumblr-wont-let-me-put-more-than-10-pictures-so

Hope this helps!

[existentialcrisisrambler]

I'm making a Bad End au where the ninjas from sad timelines was gathered by someone who wants to destroy Cloud Kingdom. No one should be bound to a life of tragedy over some destiny bs.

I'm sorry but the ninja aren't totally evil in this AU. Like, most of their morals are still intact, but they made some bad decisions to get where they are.

-

Zane is still the Ice Emperor after he regained his memories, but he still won't let go of the Forbidden Spinjutsu Scroll and believes that he should accept his new identity post-memory lost, just like how he did twice before. He did turn Vex into a popsicle, but he released most of the Never Realm from eternal winter except for his palace. The scroll and Zane's unresolved trauma is basically causing Zane to come up with excuses to be the Ice Emperor. Additionally, the conflicting emotions and longing for his friends made Zane shut off his emotions. He also may have been suppressing some memories as well.

-

Jay is a part of Misfortune's Keep crew after he screwed up his 3rd spell (I haven't figured out when and how). He somewhat succeeded in taking down Djinnjago and preventing Nandakhan becoming a god, but Ninjago was mostly destroyed and Jay lost everyone who's important in his life. Instead of looting a ruined Ninjago, the pirates of Misfortune's Keep went to other realms that have more riches to steal than a ruined Ninjago. Nandakhan kept Jay as a lowly crewmate out of spite and as a trophy prisoner, since Jay is the person who held out on his 3rd wish the longest out of anyone Nandakhan ever met. Eventually, Jay warmed up to the other crew members who were screwed over by Nandakhan. He plots to kill the genie to avenge everyone he loved.

-

For Cole, I had an idea for him snapping at Yang for making the ninja forget about Cole even though Yang himself is afraid of being forgotten. However, it feels too OOC for Cole and I realize that I'm did that because I'm bitter that Yang was forgiven so easily in canon. Thus, I ran out of ideas for an evil Cole. That boy is just too good of a person.

-

Idk what to do with Kai because

1. I don't want to use a version of Kai who's corrupted by the Staff of Elements since there's already a ninja in this team who's corrupted by a powerful staff

2. Any other version I could come up with atm is more like a temporary setback than a divergent timeline

-

For Nya, well I had an idea for a version of Seabound where Jay was the one fused with his element and Nya grieved through violence and anger, but I wanted this to be an AU where the timeline divergence wasn't caused by someone else' decision.

-

(If anyone is still reading, I basically keep running out of ideas for the ninja's backstories because I want each Ninja to end up in their circumstance due to their decision, but I don't want it to be too OOC. Zane's story already seems far-fetched and might need a rewrite.)

-

Finally, the mastermind who brought these traumatized people together is Misako. In this AU, she blames destiny for separating her from her family, for making her son fight life-and-death battles against his own father and for making the Devourer bit Garmadon. She hides her resentment by keeping up a professional face and focusing on her work.

She can't take on the whole Cloud Kingdom by herself, and she knows that she can't convince the her timeline's ninja nor trust their enemies, so she seeks out a version of the ninja that would agree with her. While searching for Wu, she found the rest of the Time Blades and found another tech genius to build a "time machine" for her, but it was for travelling between different timelines rather than travelling within her timeline.

-

I put an emphasis on choice because I believe that the writers in Cloud Kingdom can't actually control someone's decisions. Like, Morro literally defied destiny when he was looking for the FSM's tomb. So, imagine how the Bad End ninja would react if they find out that destiny has nothing to do with their current circumstances. Their decisions was the main reason they ended up like that, not destiny like how Misako told them.

-

(I'm also trying to figure out the mechanics of how alternate timelines can relate to Cloud Kingdom. Is there mutliple Cloud Kingdom in different timelines with different libraries of destinies? Is there only one Cloud Kingdom with an extensive library that covers every timeline?)

ok do you guys have any evil ninja's au??

in the mood for evil >:]