#creek is moved that shed go so far for him but is also worried that people will start treating her like they do him if she continues | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

nocturnesmoon · 7 months ago

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Chapter 2: Arachnophobia

(Series Masterlist: Divine Violence) (Read on Ao3) (Inspired Playlist)

Series: The Divine Violence - Chapter 2: Arachnophobia

Wordcount: 6.2k

Pairing: Simon "Ghost" Riley x John "Soap" MacTavish x Gn!Reader

TW: (View masterlist for series tw and tags) - DEAD DOVE DO NOT EAT Religious trauma, PTSD, Flashbacks, Angsty, Fluff, Paranoia, Anxiety, Disturbing Themes, let me know if i missed anything

Description: It's been so long since Simon last saw you. He already has a million things to worry about, and the reappearance of an old childhood friend being one of them, was not something he expected.

A/N: Finished editing sooner than expected, so thought I might aswell release it now. Also first time doing taglist, so let me know if it's not working. I think I did it right, but I don't know.

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The crows are especially loud this time of day. Always placing themselves in the dead trees that lean in over the graves. They screech and scrawl at anyone who dares come into the cemetery. They act like unofficial guardians of the dead, as if any presence that moves in would disturb their eternal sleep.

Simon has never really minded them, but his tolerance only goes so far when they don't seem to quiet down. It's the same routine every night in the late banks of summer. The warm glow of the sun would put the entire cemetery in a different mood. This place doesn't look so dark and miserable when you take a look at it from a different angle.

The fence door creeks in tune with the crows. A few of them look towards Simon as he pushes himself inside from the little opening he made. He knows exactly where to look to catch a glance of you. It never fails to surprise him how you manage to come earlier than him, but there you are. Climbed high above to the roof of the little shed, and bathed in the light of the descending sun.

Your figure is set in a defensive stance as you screech right back at the crows. He can't help the smile that crawls unto his lips, subtle and small. It was something you always ended up doing when the crows got too loud. Not even Simon's relentless teasing could stop you.

Sometimes the crows would fly away, too annoyed from the disturbance you gave right back. Other times, they would stare back at you, and Simon would start to worry they would fly down and peck their beaks and claws at you.

Luckily, they never seem to go that far.

"One of these days you're going to fall and break your neck." As soon as his voice reaches your ears, you whip around with the brightest smile. You always had a way of smiling from ear to ear like an idiot.

"Si!" You yell out, dropping down to your knees and crawling to the edge to greet him. He would have chewed you out about it, but he knew your knees were already bruised as scarred from getting up there.

"I brought food," he lifts up the plastic bag to be in your line of view. It twists around, making the handle choke against his skin and the water in the flask slosh around. You let out an excited squeal, and by the sounds of your loud rumbling stomach, he made the right choice to bring extra.

Getting up on the roof proved harder than he expected. The ladder you usually used had been locked inside the shed. Some snitch must have seen the both of you up there, and told the graveyard keeper.

You had found some creative way to stack some boxes on top of each other. However, there was still a small way you'd have to pull up, and while he was working on getting stronger, he didn't succeed in masking the few grunts and groans on the way.

"I swear you're going to be an old man by the time you turn 18 with the way your knees are popping," you teased when he swung his legs up over and rolled in. You had gracefully taken the bag from him when he was halfway. You were quick to take out it's contents and lining it up.

"Says the one who's been acting 18 since they were 10," he retorted out of breath.

You merely scoffed in response, but he caught the small smile. "Whatever, old man" your hands smoothed over the sealed bowl. You looked like you were waiting for his permission. It never failed to amuse him. He had brought the food for only you and you alone. You never actually accepted it before you were sure that you were allowed to.

"Go on, I could hear your growling stomach from the gate" he motions for you to just get to it. You rip the lid off like an animal starved. He can practically see the way your mouth glistens, at the sight of the freshly cooked meal.

"Ugh, you're a lifesaver Si, thank you."

He watches as you fold your hands, drop your head low and close your eyes in silent prayer. You do it every time before a meal. Simon can't even pretend to begin to understand why, or what the point of it is, but he knows it's important to you.

He respects it and doesn't interrupt you with stupid questions, but there will always be the little itch in the back of his brain that reminds him, that the religion forced upon you is a big factor of your pain.

You always try to convince him that it's fine, that you want it to be like this. He knows you're lying. Despite how much your parents will glorify it for you, he won't forget that it's them who starves you, just for accidentally taking the lord's name in vain.

"Say thanks to your mom from me," you mumble out through a mouthful of food. A smile tugs at the corners of his lips at the sight. You looked so content with your favourite food right at your fingertips.

"I made it."

Your eyes shoot up to meet him, surprised. "Really? Damn, you're a much better cook than I am." There's a swell of pride in his chest, he wasn't going to admit to you how many times he had failed to make that dish good. He had waited for the right moment to show you, and it paid off in the end.

"Flowers are in full bloom," he mentions offhandedly. He looks down at the small corners of red, covering the grave areas. The graveyard keeper had planted them awhile ago, hoping to let them bloom and give the grey space a pop of colour. An added bonus that it would deter people from messing with the graves.

The old man didn't like the two of you very much, chasing you out whenever he caught you here, and trying to find out who you were so he could tell your parents. It quickly made Simon internalize the man’s schedule so you could keep the space to yourself. Not like anyone ever came and visited these old graves. Not in this part of the yard.

"Mhm I know," you speak with your mouth full of food, "I plucked a few from behind the shed." He raises a brow, his curious look almost making you chuckle before swallowing. He always wondered how you lost all your manners as soon as you left the house, though he had decided to let you be on the subject long ago.

"Did you hurt yourself?"

You scoff, gulping down almost half the water bottle he brought before answering. "No, I didn't, you have so little trust me. I was careful," you assure him. You nudge to the little plastic bag of six red spider lilies. Their strings crumbled in some places, from where you had been a little less careful.

He gently picks them up. The plastic bag rustles when he moves them around, putting them into the shape of a bouquet. "You know, they kind of remind me of you" he brings them closer to his face. He looks down into the bundle of red strings, and green stalks. The sweet floral fragrance is surprisingly overwhelming. He scrunches up his nose, before moving the flowers away.

"Really?"

"Of course, my little spider" he gives you a cheeky grin. He can't help the small surge of giddiness, that rises in his chest when he sees your annoyed face. He had given you the nickname with no explanation two years ago. You didn't like it one bit, but he never relented. Over time, it just became part of your friendship.

"Are you serious? Is that why you chose it?" You didn't sound impressed. Your annoyance definitely wasn't relieved, by the potentiality of the pretty flowers being the reason for your odd nickname.

He snorts, shaking his head quickly. "Nah, could be partly" he offers you the spider lilies ceremoniously, like one would offer their partner romantic red roses. "More likely, you remind me of spiders" you accept the flowers unsure, "cute, always there, hiding in the shadows."

You swat his arm, "Hey! I do not hide in the shadows like a creep!"

His laugh echoes out louder than he meant it to. The both of you looking around suspiciously, eyeing the place to see if the graveyard keeper should suddenly pop out of the shadows and chase you away with a pitchfork.

"Of course, not love, you have absolutely never done that once in your life."

He finds himself unable to look away from your eyes, when you chuckle along with him. The little creases of genuine joy in the corners, the way they light up with life. It's a look on you that he realizes he's missed. Much more than he thought.

Simon's room is drenched in darkness when he wakes up. It's only after he forcefully blinks that he's even sure he actually did open his eyes. His breathing turns quiet and strained, the images of his dream replaying on his mind like a sick mantra. It hadn't even been the usual night terrors that he got; this one was something old yet new.

His lungs felt too big for his ribcage. The warm hand resting atop his chest felt all the more restrictive. It wasn't his own. A quiet panic sets into his blood, one that's relieved just as quick when the man next to him stirs in his sleep.

Johnny had always been a restless sleeper. Even when he was deep asleep, he had a tendency to twitch around. The first few times they had fallen asleep together, Simon hadn't gotten much, but he still found it to be worth it. Being able to hold Johnny close in his arms, and make sure that the man got as much sleep as possible, did things to the protective voice in Simon's head.

He gently moves Johnny's hand off his chest. He had fallen asleep caressing his scars. A much more frequent occurrence now that Simon had finally gotten the courage to tell Johnny of the origins. They weren't new by any means, but it felt nice regardless.

He hadn't felt cared for like this since…. well, since you.

He sits up, trying to not disturb him. His hand wipes a bead of sweat from his brow, and grimaces at the feeling. He needs a shower. Why had he even dreamt of you now, after all this time? It didn't make sense to him. Sure, he occasionally had a thought about you, but you hadn't had any prevalence in his life for a long time.

The memory was distinct to him, but it bled together with countless others you had shared on the roof of that shed. This was the first time he could see the vibrancy of the blood-red fill his vision. Those damn flowers you loved so much. The ones he nicknamed you after, when you expressed how much you hated your own name.

He could feel the touch of your fingers, running down his arm, over the tattoo he had gotten in secret. A quiet rebellion towards his own family. The softness of your skin was stuck in his mind, gripping him like a vice and choking him through his uprising emotions.

It was so clear to him. Terrifying, really, he had felt so deeply about you. Now you were but dust in the wind for him.

"Simon…"

A much rougher hand than yours had been, gently rubs his arm, bringing his attention to its owner. Johnny stares up at him with drowsy eyes, the deep blues looking to him for an explanation.

"Nightmare?" he asks, his voice still laced with sleep.

Simon shakes his head. It wasn't a nightmare, was it? His emotions are disturbed, for sure, but his nightmares are violent. They leave him rattled and shaken, barely allowing oxygen into his lungs. They have him fighting back against any physical force, and remind him of his worst memories. Typically, it didn't include scenic graveyards, beloved childhood friends and red spider lilies in full bloom.

"Then why are ye cryin'?"

Simon's eyes widen. His hand come up to touch the tears, wiping them away in a quick motion. Yeah, why the hell was he even crying. It wasn't something to cry over, it was simply the past. It wasn't even something he regretted. It was a pleasant memory; one he wishes he could go back to.

Johnny's hand traces up his muscle, until he is fully sat up himself. His lips come into contact with Simon's cheek, giving him a soft kiss.

"Ye wanna talk about it?" Johnny looks like he's ready to pass out any second. He always had that interesting ability to become sleepy anytime he's around Simon alone. Managing to become relaxed enough to let down his defences.

"No…" Simon let's out a deep grumbled sigh. He moves his head to the side, meeting Johnny's concerned gaze. He dips down to place a kiss to his lips, just as soft. "Go back to sleep…you can still catch a few hours," he says in a whisper.

They both had another day of hard work ahead of them. It wouldn't be any use if Simon was the reason the both of them were lacking energy. Their current case was a difficult one. The entire taskforce was more used to short clear-cut missions, one after the other they cleared them with minimal struggle. All they've done the last few weeks has been intel gathering, and a few fruitless ops to various places in the world.

It was, in short, frustrating. The group of people they were looking for were incredibly good at keeping themselves in the shadows. Trying to catch them has been like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands.

They've been down two men as well. Ever since, Price and Gaz left to retrieve extra help, so to speak. He doesn't see how any more help will do anything for them, the people they've already consulted were dead ends. Talented absolutely, he even learnt a new thing from one of them, but not what they needed.

The stress of the job itself was taking its toll on his brain, but he couldn't ever imagine himself doing anything else. Not when he's got this far already. People like himself aren't suited for a quieter life, somewhere else doing something that's a lot more mundane. At least he can't complain about having a boring day to day.

"Yer thoughts are loud."

Simon let's out a heavy sigh. It's too late for this, or early rather. He shuffles under the sheets, brings Johnny with him as he morphs his own body to his. Johnny instinctively wraps his arms around him, squishing themselves close as they can get. The heat of the room ignored.

"Sleep…" he mumbles and closes his eyes, "We can talk later."

A sharp knock pulls Simon away from his report. His eyes narrowing at the door as it opens, taking notice of the creek. The hinges have needed changing for a few years now. No one ever got around to it.

"Got yer lunch," Johnny steps into the low lighted office. Always with that tone of optimism that Simon can never really grasp.

"Jesus, ah don't understand how ye can see anythin' in 'ere." Johnny pushes the door closed, and makes his way over to Simon's desk. He puts down a plate of whatever he could find (that Simon would like) from what they're serving today. A task that could prove challenging.

Johnny squints in the low light, even the lamp Simon keeps on his desk doesn't do much for the total lighting in the room.

He prefers it this way though, it goes easy on his eyes, and he doesn't have to listen to the incessant buzzing from the lights that apparently only he can hear.

The first time Johnny questioned him on his choice, Johnny had called him a vampire in response. In retaliation, he had woken the man up in the middle of the night, and scared the shit out of him.

He was not questioned again.

"Got yer favourite," the Scot scoots an extra chair over to his desk. He tried to sound as upbeat as he could. The last while had taken a visible toll on everyone in the taskforce, and between the two of them, Johnny wanted to remain positive for them both. Simon sure as hell wasn't going to.

Simon let's out a grumbling noise in response. "Oh, quit that," Johnny waves his hand between the report and his face, "ah know for a fact, that ye barely ate anythin' this mornin'. What's the matter with ye."

The quiet stretches between them. He ignores the offended sputters, when he removes Johnny's hand from his view. He was right though, unfortunately, Simon hadn't had much of an appetite ever since he failed to go back to sleep. There was something about the dream he had, it wouldn't leave his mind.

No matter how much he tried to convince himself it was nothing, the reminder of the past felt like a storm in his body. It swirled old emotions back to the top, things he never got over and had instead repressed the hell out of.

He tried to not make a habit of dwelling on things he couldn't change. Yet now he finds himself wondering what could have been different if he chose other actions, than what he did all those years ago.

What if he hadn't given up on reaching out. What if he had tried to find you. What if he still knew you.

What if, what if, what if.

He bit back on a groan. Normally it was the annoying (Loveable) Scotsman occupying his thoughts, not childhood crushes.

For a time, he had tried finding you again, years later when it would already be too late. What he found was abnormally little, and nothing worthy of note. All he could boil it down to was that you had your own life now, somewhere else, far away from him.

"Simon," Johnny snapped his fingers, "Ye don't get to ignore me, talk to me." Still, he remains quiet, only gracing the man with his supposed undivided attention at his request. Whatever Johnny wanted from him would be better than fantasizing about a past he couldn't return to. It wasn't like him.

"Jus' stressed."

"Aye…sure…just the stress," Johnny mocks him light-heartedly, his mouth tugging in the corners. "C'mon Si, ah know what ye're like when ye're stressed…this is different…is it the supposed non nightmare ye had?" He's adamant on not letting the morning go.

Simon had been more quiet than normal, hastily going on with his day in an attempt at finding something to distract him. He had failed miserably in his pursuit, instead letting himself drown in the unanswerable question. What exactly was the goal of The Divine Principle.

"It wasn't a nightmare," he stresses.

"Didn't say it was."

Simon puts down the pen he had been writing with. The small joints in his fingers aching at the release. The pen was the only thing that had been at his disposal for several hours, which allowed him to fidget. Anything else left him restless, only the bouncing of his own leg did it justice, but even that got tiresome after a long time of it.

"I dreamt up memories." He looks away from his partner's unwavering attention. He had told several things from his past already. Old ghost stories that's better left dead and buried under the rubble of his past self.

He allowed Johnny in years ago, opened up his stone turned heart, and let him hold it. He gave him the ability to squeeze the life out of it, drain it of whatever feeling it still had left.

Instead, Johnny let it prosper in his care. Showing the scars of his own, and gaining mutual love and understanding.

There were still things he didn't know. Wounds that never really turned into scars were still left in the darkness. Scabs being picked at every few years or so, reminding him of the hurt he never quite tended to.

"Yer family?"

"An old friend."

"Childhood friend? Not somethin' ye've ever mentioned before," Johnny says in an intrigued tone. He pushes the plate of food In front of Simon's vision to remind him. It doesn't forward his eating. He barely even looks at it, instead remaining his fixed gaze on John.

"And I don't intend to," he doesn't react to the disproving look he gets, "at least not yet."

"Aye…Ah not gonna force ye to Si…but it's clearly botherin' ye." Johnny let's out a pleased sound when Simon finally rolls up the bottom of his mask above his nose, and pick up the fork to stab at his food.

He takes a big bite before he continues. It gives him enough time to gather his own thoughts. They still spiral within his skull, feelings of want and longing buzzing in his bones. "I jus' didn't expect it," he whispers, "been years since I’ve had a dream from the past that wasn't riddled with…unease."

It's not a generous term. It doesn't quite grasp the full complexity of it, but he'd rather suffer beneath a blade once again before he admits it out in the open that they terrify him.

Nightmares are frequent, things from the operations he goes through here. Night terrors have become a much smaller occurrence for him, his therapy sessions helping more than he thought they would, and extra support from Johnny had done wonders.

He didn't know what to make of it, but Price's words from years ago of how far you could go with a solid support system, were apparently true. He wasn't planning on admitting that to the man anytime soon, however.

Johnny stares in silence, waiting for him to continue, but the matter is dropped when he shakes his head no. Johnny let's out a deep sigh, and with a soft shake of his head, he begins eating his own brought lunch. "Fine, have it yer way" he mumbles while he chews, "Captain and Gaz should be coming in a few hours."

"I would've thought you'd show more excitement over new people," Simon speaks after swallowing his mouthful of food. He didn't want to go back to the subject of his dream, instead letting it simmer in the back of his head.

"Ah would, but I'm too busy worrying about yer ass." Johnny grins, and though he means it, Simon can see the glimmer of curiosity in his eyes. He had always been one for the newcomers, the few people that had helped them on the cult case so far had been on the questionably delightful receiving end of Johnny's flirtatious manner.

"You worry too much."

"Funny, ah should be the one saying that," that earns Johnny a look of annoyance. One he can only chuckle at. No matter how much Johnny would humour it, he was right, even if Simon didn't want him to be.

He always found himself something to worry about, or so he's told from everyone around him. One thing was for Price to say it, the hypocritical bastard. Another was for Johnny to mention it, it got him thinking, but it was a complete third thing when even Kyle would give his two cents of concern.

He was labelled a worrier, through and through. Not something he took on with particular pride, but it kept them safe. It made him aware of the dangers, all of them, and with the right precautions he could fight them before they took something precious of his.

It's the unknown that's the hardest to compete with. He knew nothing about the upcoming arrival, he couldn't prepare his proper defences, or what he needed. His brain still had to constantly remind him that the person coming wasn't a threat to his peace. They were coming to help. That was all.

One thing Simon can be thankful for, is that the base doesn't feel it when it's at it's busiest. The quiet can still reap the noise in the halls, and outside the wind is reduced to a slow breeze.

There's a chill in the air, the leaves of autumn already starting to fall from the dedicated few trees left on base. The colour on them had kept something pretty to look at around, soon they would bare and boring again. Sometimes the snow would make up for it, if there was enough of it.

He'd been waiting out here a tad too long. Not even Johnny would join him before the plane got a bit closer. The anxious part of him wouldn't allow him to be late. An ideal he'd always held to, rather be too early than too late.

It keeps him within of that carefully crafted control.

A control that very quickly starts to dwindle when the doors open.

A part of him finds himself relieved when he sees Price and Garrick come out of the plane unscathed and in the same state as they went. He could try to deny it to himself all he wanted, but he had grown to care about the taskforce as a whole, not just Johnny.

That part of it all was fine, a variable he knew.

The person walking languidly behind them, is what sets him out of his carefully calculated control.

It trails down his back like claws of ice, bringing the warmth of his blood into an ever long cold. His limbs cease, his already rigid stance becomes like stone. The person that walks towards him, is not a person he knows any more, nor is it a person he ever expected to see again. Because that person is no longer the little kid, he would watch scrape their knees climbing the trees, or the little kid he would hold close when they broke under pressure.

The little kid was now a grown adult.

And in tow behind Price with a nervous look.

You look different.

He couldn't even be sure that it was truly that little kid, sure they carried your features, more mature and older, a new amount of scars and weariness you should never bear. It's been so long, he can almost convince himself that he's hallucinating. That his own sleep deprivation is finally catching up to him, and forcing him to make correlations based upon his own wishes.

"Boys, it's good to see you" Price voice thrums out. The smile playing on his lips tells Simon more things than he likes. The eye-contact they're making only makes the nausea in his stomach worse. If only throwing up would fix the problem standing in front of him, half obscured by Gaz.

"I hope we didn't keep you waiting out here too long," Price voice almost echoes, "I want to introduce you to someone."

The tense air doesn't alleviate, and when your name leaves the captains lips, Simon knows that he is completely and utterly fucked.

"Ye know them, don't ye?"

Johnny's voice startles him out of his thoughts, bringing him back up from the rabbit hole he ventured down. He's been standing here for who knows how long, staring out at the training recruits doing their drills for the evening, or at least that is his cover. Truly he doesn't see anyone of them, he looks past the moving crowd, his eyes boring into your figure on the other side.

He answers Johnny with a simple grunt. He still can't quite believe it himself, that it really is you, that you're alive and here. It makes him angry to even think about, you being here. You're not supposed to be here at all, you were supposed to be far away from the likes of the military.

You weren't supposed to look like you did, flimsy and cautious reactions to everything that moved, new scars he knew nothing about adorned your once soft skin and made it rough, your eyes were no longer sweet and innocent, they had seen things he had as well.

A future he had blissfully believed you wouldn't have to share with him.

His nausea hasn't left since you arrived hours ago.

"Not on good terms, then?" Whatever Johnny thought of you, he was having a mighty good time with this. Since you'd uttered your first words, Johnny had been smitten with you. A quality to impress that you still seemed to possess, despite your differences.

Simon had worried that Johnny would have scared you away with his overwhelming form of an introduction. His presence commanded space, something Simon counted on when he wanted to retract into the shadows of a room and go unnoticed. But on you and your tense muscles, you looked more like a frightened rabbit ready to sprint back into the plane.

You didn't.

No, you held yourself in place, did the courteous thing and introduced yourself as properly as you could.

There hadn't been a whole lot of time for reunions. Simon didn't even know whether you knew it was him under the skull mask. He hadn't greeted you, too afraid of his own reaction to you, and he had likely looked like a rude, brutish soldier that wanted nothing to do with you.

He wanted to adhere to that, keep up the act, and keep hoping you wouldn't see through him and his longing glances.

"I think they're quite charming," Johnny says with a hint of suggestion, "pretty thing."

"Keep it in your pants, MacTavish."

Across the yard, he sees you light a cigarette. You bring it to your lips and take a puff, rolling your shoulders back to release tension. It's a nasty habit, one you shouldn't indulge in. You should've stayed away from it, just like he told you all those years ago.

His hand twitches when you take another puff, and the pack of cigarettes burn against his thigh where they rest in his pocket.

"I thought ye liked to take said pants off-" he lets out a scoff when Simon moves past him, not allowing him to finish.

He crosses halfway through before the small voice in him quivers and changes his mind. He trails to the side, slowly making his way towards you by staying close to the raised wall. You don't look towards him, but with the way you had anxiously assessed every corner of every area you went, you likely knew exactly where he was and what he was doing.

Nonetheless, he found himself standing with a distance to you, using the excuse that it was a dedicated smoking area, to actually allow himself this close. It feels out of place for him to be this cautious of his own movements. Normally his moves were calculated, a bit heavy and tense, sneaky, when need be, but not the nervous caution he embodies now.

He fishes out his own pack of cigarettes, narrowing his vision on it while he lights it to make sure he doesn't let himself trail towards you. He needs to be strategic about this, he couldn't just assume you knew who he was. You might not even remember him.

"I was starting to wonder whether you were going to come say hello, or if you were going to keep hiding in the shadows, and staring like a creep."

The first drag comes into his lungs wrong. He seals his lips and lets the cough reside in his chest. A mistake to do, since you seem to notice anyway. Your voice isn't what he would think. Though, he starts to realize he doesn't actually remember what you used to sound like in his memories, but it wasn't this.

"Wasn't staring," he defends.

"Sure, and I’m royalty."

At least you hadn't lost your love for sarcasm.

He takes a better drag of his cigarette, lets the nicotine into his body like he needed it to breathe. He really should kick the habit, set an example. If not for you, then for Johnny. He didn't quite think you'd care so much for his 'example' any more.

"No reintroduction?"

"So, you know then," he turns his head to look at you. He meets your eyes, already staring at him, looking him over like he's some fascinating creature you've never seen before. Yet he feels like you're staring right through him at the same time.

There's something haunted about your appearance and stance.

"Of course I know, Simon, you really think I would've come here if I didn't get all the information."

Simon doesn't know what to think. You're not even supposed to be here in his mind. "Been a long time," he comments idly, instead of indulging your rhetorical question. How many years had it been since you parted? Since you stopped answering and turned away? He can't remember.

"It has," you bring your own cigarette to your lips to take a drag, the silence kills, "you've come far."

"I thought you were too stubborn to join up." He watches on as you look away. Is that a hint of shame he sees? He's not going to pretend to know what's going on in your head anymore.

"People change," is all the answer you seem to muster up and give him, "and I’m not currently enlisted."

His jaw twitches behind the mask, it clamps to his face uncomfortably, suddenly feeling too scratchy against his skin.

People change.

He knew that, he wasn't delusional about it. It just didn't feel right for you to change so drastically. He had always imagined that you'd be living alone by now, in a city far away from the likes of him, maybe even a different country. You'd have bought that flat or house you always fantasized about, finally making it yours. You'd have a beloved pet or two, and a husband or wife to keep your bed warm.

He lets out a grunt in response, taking another shot at filling his lungs with smoke. "Well, you're not the only thing that's changed over the years," he doesn't know what point he's trying to make, yet he tries nonetheless.

"Clearly." He no longer likes the tone of voice you've taken on.

You turn yourself to him fully this time. He has no idea what's going through your head. There's mystique in your eyes, and it takes an embarrassingly long time for him to realize you aren't staring at him, but his mask.

"Out of all the motifs, you could've chosen…" you sound almost disappointed in him. He doesn't understand why it stings. You look down at his skeletal gloves with the same expression. He's never been one to be embarrassed, or self-conscious about his persona. You've only been back in his life for a few hours, and the old standard he held for you long ago comes back like it wasn't ever gone.

He can't even remember caring that much about your opinion of him. Maybe it's because back then you adored everything about him. Now your eyes don't hold the warmth he's come to miss.

"You got a problem?" His jaw tenses behind his mask. He regrets his tone of voice the instant he sees the narrow squint of your eyes, the distaste never quite leaving your face.

"You know that I do." He does. He doesn't try to deny it. Back when you were kids, he knew you better than even your own parents did, your family or anyone else you would surround yourself with.

"If there's a conflict of interest-"

"Always so prone to the extreme," you cut him off. A callback he doesn't appreciate as much as he once would. "Good to see not everything is changed," none of your words are said with honesty nor the friendliness he could've expected from you.

There's deceit, passive aggressiveness, a hostile tone you've never bourn before. You've never had to Infront of him before. It's a foolish realization to only have now. It's the only constant he could be sure of the first time he saw you again, in all these years. You weren't going to be the same, you have changed, and so has he.

To go back to such a time isn't a possibility. It rests within either of your memories, buried beneath layers of stone and ice. The feelings you once had couldn't be expected to be upheld. It was unfair of him to think such a way.

He doesn't recognize his own voice when he softly calls your name. His3 hand moves forward about to graze at your arm, but before he can even come near, you back away. It's a rejection that cuts deep, and one he wishes he actually could blame you for. Alas he can't.

"No," you say steadfast "don't do that. It won't end well…for either of us."

He doesn't nod, doesn't shake his head. No verbal response is offered, only a mere silent movement, the retraction of his own hand to give you the space you have asked for. He doesn't like it. He doesn't like it anymore than he liked the way you became a ghost all those years ago.

You're finally within reach of his grasp, and you've never felt further away.

Likes, Reblogs and comments are always appreciated, love ya! <3

Taglist: @chickennn-soupp @unlikelyaperson @ghostlythots @lilynotdilly @islnd-vybz

#noctmoon fics #The Divine Violence #simon ghost riley x reader #simon ghost riley #john soap mactavish #john soap mctavish x reader #john price #kyle gaz garrick #ghost x soap x reader #ghoap #ghoap x reader #soap x ghost x reader #soap x reader x ghost #dead dove do not eat

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thegoodgayshit · 4 years ago

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Luz’s mother really doesn’t want to send Luz to camp. She knows once she leaves, there is no going back. But Luz has a knack for getting into trouble, and one day she stumbles into the same type of people her mother would have preferred she avoided. After helping Luz dissolve her high school bully into dust, Eda and Lilith know right away that this kid is just like them - a child of the gods. So Luz hops on a Pegasus and heads to Camp Half-blood, where she embarks on a dangerous quest that makes her both friends and enemies... and she might even save Olympus along the way.

Chapter Twenty-Four: We Help Out Willow’s Big Brother

Luz’s legs were burning.

She was pretty sure she’d never had to walk this far in her entire life. She’d been hiking a couple of times with her Tia Rosa when she was younger, but she definitely hadn’t enjoyed it. And it definitely hadn’t been more than an hour.

The walk down the highway hadn’t been that bad. They’d stayed off to the side of the road, and even been picked up by a nice mom in a minivan at one point. They’d told her that Gus’ dad had a fishing house along Turquoise Lake, and she’d dropped them off right at the edge of the highway. That had probably cut them about an hour of walking, but it was still slow and brutal.

Eventually, the highway had ended and a dirt road took its place. That’s when they started to move uphill. Luz could handle the straight line, but she was wearing vans and wasn’t at all interested in uphill climbing in flat shoes.

After about an hour and a half of moving along this uphill climb, Luz doubled over, clutching her stomach.

“Can we take a quick break? I’m dying here.”

Willow was more than happy to agree with Luz, dropping into a squat right next to her. “Sure, I’m beat.”

“I don’t know guys,” Amity said with a frown. Somehow, throughout the entire hike, she didn’t look even the slightest bit tired. She was sweating a little along her brow but otherwise looked unfazed. “We shouldn’t stop here. We’re exposed.”

“Don’t you guys think it’s a little strange we haven’t run into a single monster?” Gus added. He also looked a little worse for wear, he had shed his button-up and was now just in a t-shirt and jeans. But he was worrying his lower lip, looking around like they would be ambushed at any second. “I mean, we’re four demigods walking in a group, closing in on Mount Pelion. We couldn’t be bigger targets if we tried.”

“Don’t jinx us,” Willow deadpanned, taking a huge swig of water from one of the bottles they’d bought in Leadville. “I really don’t have the energy to fight a monster right now. We’ve been hiking for two and a half hours.”

“If we’re going to take a break, I think we should at least do it in the trees and out of sight,” Amity suggested, and Luz nodded, straightening back up.

“That’s fine with me, any break is a good break.”

They walked off the dirt road and down a little trail until they ended up a creek. Finding a good spot to sit along some rocks, Willow handed everybody a protein bar. Luz collapsed pretty ungracefully along a rock and closed her eyes.

“This is brutal,” she groaned, “and it’s only going to get more intense the higher up we get.”

“It depends actually,” Amity added with a shrug. “We might have to make our way around the mountain in a spiral. Lots of trails don’t go straight up.”

“How do you know all that?” Willow asks, and Amity tucks her arms around her knees.

“I live in the area, remember? My siblings and I go on hikes all the time during the school year.”

“So do you know the trail up Mt. Elbert?” Gus asks, and Amity shakes her head.

“No, we’re not allowed to go near Mount Pelion. I’ve done Mt. Evans a couple of times though.”

“Well that explains how you’re like, not even out of breath at all,” Luz says with a teasing smile. “You’ve got some superhuman hiking strength.”

Amity blushes, rubbing the back of her neck. “It just takes practice. Eventually, you stop noticing the burn in your calves.”

“Ugh, I wish,” Gus groans. “Mine feel like I’ve just run a marathon.

“Do you think we’re going to make it up the mountain before dark?” Willow asks, and Amity immediately shakes her head.

“We shouldn’t, even if we are in a hurry. The higher we get, the more brutal the winds are going to be. It’s just after noon, so we should hike a little longer before we take a break and look for camp.”

“Ok, then let’s get moving,” Luz said, and when she stood up, every muscle in her legs protested. “The sooner we get there the sooner we can stop.”

They started to make their way back to the dirt road, walking in pairs. Amity was leading the charge with Gus next to her, and Luz and Willow hung back, their feet dragging a little more than they would have cared to admit.

They were almost back at the dirt trail when Amity suddenly stopped cold, and Luz wasn’t really paying attention, so she just slammed into her back. Amity stumbled, but Luz reached forward and caught her arm, pulling her back.

“Sorry,” Luz mumbled, but Amity just held up her hand. It was so unlike Amity that Luz quieted immediately, as did Willow and Gus, who were now looking around the clearing with nervous eyes.

“Did you hear that?” Amity whispered, stiffening up.

Luz was quiet, listening to her surroundings as her friends did the same. At first, there was nothing. Just the rush of the creek and the swaying of the trees. But then…

RHEEEEEEEEE!

Luz was so startled by the cry, she jumped right back into Willow, who held her shoulders and kept her steady. Gus and Amity called out their shields, holding a protective barrier in front of them, but it wasn’t needed. The cry had come from somewhere deeper in the trees, and following that right away was another cry, this one human.

A very angry human, cussing so badly her Mami would have washed their mouth out with soap.

Then, another cry from whatever had made that noise.

“Someone’s in trouble!” Willow exclaimed, and all four demigods summoned their weapons. Aletheia spun into a sword, and Luz caught it, and charged through the forest with her friends, her previous exhaustion forgotten.

“What kind of monster is that?” Luz cried out as they sprinted through the trees. There was no doubt it was something from their world. No bear or wolf made a noise like that.

“I have a couple of ideas!” Gus offered, doing his best to keep up and not trip on the rocky ground. “None of them good!”

“Sounds about right,” Luz groaned, before deciding to just focus on running.

Amity eventually skidded to a complete stop right as they broke through a clearing in the trees, and Luz stopped a lot more dramatically next to her, her dominant foot slipping and resulting in Aletheia being held up against her face protectively. When Luz looked past Amity’s shoulder at what was making the sound, she gawked.

In the middle of the clearing, there was a gorgeous white and blue farmhouse, with a huge porch. Luz could make out a clothesline hanging from the top of the porch, and a couple of wicker sitting chairs. There was a variety of hanging plants in the garden, and a huge wreath over the door. And the clearing? It was huge.

In fact, the clearing wasn’t a clearing at all. It was more like a twenty-acre farmers' field, just sitting off the dirt road in mountain country. Luscious green vegetables were growing in the fields, along with potatoes, corn, beans, an orchid of apples, and there was even a gods forsaken red barn smack in the center of it with a couple of animals milling about. The enough was enough to shock Luz since she was pretty sure the soil quality up here couldn’t be great. They looked like they could be in Missouri, not Colorado.

But the biggest shock wasn’t the farm. It was the farmer standing just away from the front porch. The farmer’s huge hands were clasping a boar by the tusks, stopping it from charging. He grunted with effort, gritting his teeth and digging his boots in the dirt, his muscles rippling under a green flannel button up.

Luz had never seen a boar before, but she was pretty sure they were supposed to be that big. It was easily the size of a sedan, with massive beady eyes, and it was doing everything in its power to push against the farmer. It’s feet stamped into the ground furiously as it pushed, and Luz saw the farmer tense as he was pushed back an inch in the dirt, and all the shock drained from her body.

“We have to help him!”

Luz charged forward, her friends at her heels. She approached the boar with a furious yell, and with a quick swing, she managed to take the boar by surprise and cut one of the tusks off sending it spinning into the dirt. The boar was now moving off-balance, diverting away from the farmer and charging in another direction. The farmer stumbled and dropped to one knee.

Gus and Amity charged at the boar with their weapons and shields, keeping it away from the crops. Willow had already leaned down to help up the farmer.

“Are you alright?”

He took her hand and stood, brushing his hands down his dirty jeans. “Thanks, kid,” he said to Willow, his voice gruff and heavy with a deep southern drawl. “I’ll be just fine. But we better go help your friends, cuz’ they ain't’ gonna be fine for long.”

Luz spun around, and her eyes widened in horror. The boar had turned on Gus now and had knocked his shield out of his hand with it’s one good tusk and sent it spinning into the dirt. He stabbed forward with his spear, managing to turn the boar away from him, but now it had focused on Amity, rearing back to charge.

“Amity!”

Luz ran forward, but there was no way she could outrun the boar. Amity didn’t seem to need her help though, because as it charged she sidestepped, managing to graze the side of it with her sword. It wasn’t nearly enough to send it running, but it did squeal and give Luz, Willow, and the farmer enough time to make it to the other two demigods.

They readied their weapons, the five of them standing together and watching the boar murderously. Seeming to realize it was outnumbered, the boar huffed in anger, before turning tail and fleeing, exiting through the trees and out of sight.

Luz exhaled, turning to her friends in terror.

“What was that thing?”

“The Crommyonian Sow,” Gus said, his voice very small as he retracted his spear and picked up his sword. “The mother to the Calydonian Boar. It terrorized the village Crommyon and was later killed by Theseus.”

“Theseus?” Luz asked, her voice quickly rising in anger. “That can’t be a coincidence.”

“It’s not, Luz,” Amity said, and Luz’s gaze flickered up to look at her. Her eyes were wide, but not because of the run-in with the boar. “Your dream!”

Luz paled, and Willow and Gus turned to look at her in confusion.

“What dream?” Willow asked, and Luz recalled the dream she’d had of the mountain, from the fight between Theseus and Achilles, Belos’ order, and the Death Mist. When she’d finished, they both had gone pale as well.

“His exact words were ‘stop them before they find us’?” Gus repeated, fidgeting uncomfortably. “That can’t be good.”

“The Sow started showin’ up today, but it’s come back roun’ here three times lookin’ for trouble,” the farmer said, and Luz jumped, forgetting he was standing there. When Luz and her friends turned to look at him, he stuck his hands in his jean pockets, giving them a white smile.

Luz wasn’t sure how old he was, maybe somewhere in his early thirties? He had curly dark hair and a scruffy beard that made him look like a lot of the dads that dropped their kids off at Luz’s school in the morning. He had a deep tan, and his eyes were a dark green, that twinkled in a way that Luz pegged right away as not human.

Though she should have figured that out already based on the way he held back a boar with his bare hands.

“I’m Demophon,” he said with a little smile. “Why don’t you kids come inside for some lemonade.”

Demophon’s house was really homely. It was an old farm style, with a lot of wooden furniture, and the décor was mainly light greens and blues. In the living room next to a couple of couches was a huge brick fireplace, sitting barren and unused. They sat down at the kitchen table that overlooked the farm fields, and Demophon returned from the kitchen with two pitchers of lemonade and plates of snacks: cookies, fresh veggies and fruit, and sandwiches.

They probably should have been more cautious, considering they didn’t really know anything about Demophon, but they were so hungry they couldn’t care less. Luz’s stomach grumbled in delight as she dug into a little tuna sandwich, washing it down so quickly with lemonade she barely tasted it.

“Thank you so much for the food, Mr. Demophon,” Amity said between bites, and he just shook his head.

“Demophon is fine, Amity. It’s my pleasure to help you kids on your quest.”

The four of them perked up, now looking at him with surprise. The farmer chuckled, but Luz noticed a slight lift in her shoulders. She did the same thing when she was worried about something.

“Yes, I know all about your quest. My mother sent me a message earlier this month lettin’ me know you migh’ be stopping by… and that you were on your way to free Lady Hestia.” For a moment, his nerves disappeared as he turned to Willow, his green eyes twinkling in pleasure. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, little sister.”

Willow dropped her sandwich on the plate, looking up at him in shock. Luz felt her mouth drop open and saw Amity and Gus tense next to her. Willow, eventually, was able to reply.

“You’re my brother?”

Demophon hummed, taking a seat next to them. He crossed his huge calloused hands together on the table and smiled. “Well, in a sense. Demeter is more of my adopted mother. But over the many centuries I’ve been alive, I have come to grow fond of her.”

“You’re Triptolemus’ brother,” Gus said, his voice lowering in realization. Demophon chuckled.

“Trip is my older brother yes. Though he rarely visits. He has many other duties to attend to.”

“But how… how are you alive?” Gus said in awe, and Luz realized that Willow and Amity were leaning in, desperate to hear his story. Luz really needed to brush up on her Greek mythology. Maybe she’d take it as her elective when she went back to school.

“What do you mean how is he alive?” Luz asked, blinking. “He’s a god, obviously.”

“No, Luz Noceda,” Demophon said with a shake of his head. He settled his warm green eyes on Luz with a smile. “I am no god. But I am immortal.”

Luz’s brow furrowed. “How is that different?”

“Demeter is the goddess of the harvest, but also fertility,” Demophon explained, nodding his head to Willow. “My birth parents were favored by my mother, just as Willow’s fathers were. In exchange for their adoration, Demeter sought to make me a god in their honor. She is the mother of the Olympians and worked with Hestia to have me stoked on their fires and made immortal. But halfway through the process, my birth mother found me on the fire and screamed, rippin’ me off the flames. The process was never finished, but it was too late to turn back. I was made immortal, but due to my… imperfection… I was never accepted into the Greek pantheon. So, mother let me have this farm here near Mount Pelion, and that’s where I’ve stayed.”

“Why weren’t you accepted?” Amity asked in shock when he finished. She was looking Demophon up and down. “You look godly to me. You held back that sow with your bare hands, and you certainly haven’t aged over the centuries.”

“There is more to being a god than just strength and immortality,” Demophon answered, his voice turning wistful as he talked. “You need drive: godly essence that comes from owning and having. You need to stand for something and have mortals who respect and favor you. Mortals don’t see me as a person who can grant them good fortune and prosperity, and I have no claim over any aspect of humanity.”

“Because the legends said you died in the fire when your mother found you,” Willow said, her mouth open wide with shock and realization. Demophon shrugged.

“Mortals rarely get the full story, and so they fill in the gaps with what they want to see. Complex situations confuse em’. I think you know what I mean, little sister.”

Willow flushed, and Luz realized that maybe Demophon had a point. Willow was teased for being “half a half-blood”, but she was one of the strongest demigods Luz knew. The more Luz looked at Demophon, the more sympathy she felt for him. It must be incredibly lonely, living for this long and never being accepted into the mortal world or the godly one.

“I’m sorry we brought the monster to your farm,” Luz said slowly, and Demophon looked over at her with the tiniest hints of a smile.

“Now, now of that, Luz. I’m no fool, and unless you’re the man that sent that beast, I have no quarrel with you. But you kids ain’t safe heading up the mountain until that monster’s been taken care of.”

Demophon stood up and went into the kitchen, but came back relatively quickly. He had a cloth package in his hands, which he handed to Willow.

“These are some of my mother’s apples. She has me grow them here in case harvest on Olympus is poor. It never is, so I always have plenty. When you need a boost, take a bite. Hopefully, it helps you on your quest.”

Willow held the package so gently in her hands, it was like she was afraid they would disappear. She looked up at Demophon in awe.

“These apples… they haven’t been trusted to mortals in centuries. Why would you give us something like this?”

Demophon’s face suddenly went dark.

“I want Belos gone just as much as the Olympians do. Hestia is the reason I’m here, able to tend to my farm and my livestock. She’s always been kind to me… kind to all who cross her path and say hello.”

He looked over at the huge fireplace in his living room, which was completely dark. His eyes were fixated on it, like the sight of it alone physically pained him.

“My fire hasn’t lit since she was taken,” he said, his voice breaking slightly on those last few words. “Without her, all the love and light and happiness that we know will fade from existence. Somebody needs to stop him, and get her back. If I were not bound to this farm, I would go up the mountain myself. I will do anything I can to help you.”

Demophon sat back down at the table and went back to cradling his calloused hands in his lap. Luz was suddenly struck with a pang of homesickness. Demophon did the same thing with his hands her Mami did when she was worrying herself sick about something. He was just as scared about the success of the quest as they were.

“You seem to admire Hestia a lot,” Luz said quietly, so quietly she wasn’t sure anybody would hear her. But Demophon looked up, and so did her friends, turning to look at Luz. She glanced at Amity, for only half a second, and realized that she was watching Luz with a careful expression.

Had she overstepped?

Demophon met Luz’s gaze, and that’s when Luz saw it. It was the same look Amity gave her when she was grappling with a decision. To tell or not to tell.

“I’ve had so few people I could truly call a friend while I’ve worked this farm,” he eventually said, glancing over at the fire. “I could always rely on Hestia to show whenever I lit that fire and passed on my offerings. There are so few certainties in a life as long as mine. If you were in my place, would you be happy with that changing in the blink of an eye?”

“No,” Luz said immediately. She couldn’t imagine just sitting at her Mami’s apartment while her friends were in danger. She’d do anything to protect Willow and Gus. She’d do anything to protect Amity.

She’d move the entire mountain by herself if she had to.

She opened her mouth to reply, to assure Demophon that they would do everything they could to save her, but she didn’t get the opportunity to. Because Amity spoke next, swallowing hard before shaking her head.

“I’ll get her back,” Amity said, leaning in to look Demophon in the eye.

It was so surprising Luz couldn’t help but turn and look at Amity out of the corner of her eye. Amity’s expression was startling. Her face looked exactly like how Luz was feeling.

“I’ll break her out of the cage and make Belos pay no matter what happens. I swear it on the River Styx.”

Outside, thunder rumbled. The temperature in the room seemed to drop. Willow and Gus were looking at Amity with a mixture of shock and horror on their faces. Luz didn’t really know what was happening, but judging by the equally as awed look Demophon was giving her, whatever she’d done was pretty serious.

“You don’t know what you’re promising me, kid,” Demophon tried, but Amity shook her head, leaning in again with such a ferocity Luz couldn’t look away no matter how hard she tried.

“I do know,” she insisted, reaching forward and gently resting her hand over his. “I know that nobody deserves to have someone taken from them. Being around the people you love makes life worth living.”

Willow cracked a small smile, nodding her head and leaning forward to rest her hand on top of Amity’s.

“She’s right. I’ll help too.”

“Me too!” Gus added, reaching forward to put his own hand on top of Willows.

Luz broke into a grin, nodding and adding her own hand to the now growing pile. “Obviously I’m in too. We’ll free Hestia, even if Theseus throws a hundred more stupid pig-boars at us.”

“Let’s hope he doesn’t,” Amity deadpanned, and Luz laughed, hard enough that everyone at the table cracked into smiles. Even Demophon, who was looking so grateful Luz thought he might start crying.

“Thank you, kids,” he said, wiping at his face. “You have no idea what this means to me.”

“We do know. That’s why we want to help,” Luz insisted, her whole body vibrating with adrenaline at what they were about to do. “Now let’s go make some pork chops.”

#the owl house #lumity #luz x amity #Percy Jackson AU #shelby speaks

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unfolded73 · 5 years ago

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If You’re Happy, I’m Happy (1/1) - schitt’s creek ff

The first in a series (maybe?) of post-episode reaction fics, this one for 6x01. Patrick and Moira talk. Rated G, 1500 words.

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Moira Rose had been shooting him regretful glances throughout the barbecue, and it made Patrick nervous. After Cabaret, he felt like he knew David’s mother fairly well, and she’d never looked at him like that before, not with anything approaching regret. (Not even when she told him once in a moment of frustration that he danced like a ‘rigor mortis-afflicted rugby player.’) Maybe she was feeling bad for them that the wedding venue had turned out to be slaughterhouse-adjacent. If that was the case, her regret was unnecessary as far as he was concerned. Patrick was relieved that Elmbridge Manor hadn’t worked out, he had to admit to himself. Even with all the discounts, that venue would have put them into debt and Patrick didn’t want to start his marriage that way. So the dying pigs had been… okay, that had been horrible, but they also had presented him with a reprieve from having to pay for that place.

Still, when Alexis wandered away from the picnic table to talk on the phone to Ted again and David excused himself to go locate some bug spray, Patrick found himself again under the gaze of Moira while her husband sat at the other end of the table and chewed on what appeared to be overly tough bites of pork chop.

“As I resurface from my week of disheartenment, it is occurring to me that it was opprobrious of me to overshadow your and David’s engagement as I did. I apologize, Patrick.” She reached over and patted his hand gently a couple of times, bracelets jangling.

“It’s okay, Mrs. Rose,” he said, suppressing the urge to chuckle at her word choices or worse, to come up with some unusual words of his own to use in response. That was the kind of trolling that he could do with David and even with Alexis, but he was still trying to be on good behavior for his future mother-in-law.

She smiled happily, as if that simple ‘it’s okay’ from him was all it took to alleviate any guilt she’d been carrying. Patrick envied how easily she shed her regret as if it had never been there in the first place. He wondered what it was like, going through life like that. Not lying awake and cringing over something you said ten years ago.

“I’ll confess, I didn’t imagine that our David would ever marry. But John and I are exultant that you are to be his life partner, Patrick,” Moira said. “Right, John?”

Johnny Rose looked up, confused. He obviously hadn’t been paying any attention to what she was saying. “What?”

“I was saying how pleased we are that Patrick and David are to wed.”

“Oh! Oh, yes. Very pleased.” It wasn’t insincere, but David’s father clearly had his mind on something else. He put his knife and fork down. “I should probably clean the grill.”

“Do you want some help, Mr. Rose?” Patrick, said, starting to get up.

“No, Patrick, you stay put. I’ve got it.”

Patrick settled back onto the bench, watching Moira’s face as she watched her husband.

“He probably thinks I don’t realize,” she said softly.

“Realize what?”

“That he’s disconsolate over this eleventh hour resurrection of my career,” she replied. “I suppose I should be flattered that my husband doesn’t want to share me with the adoring public.”

Patrick turned and glanced over at Johnny, armed with a grill brush and vigorously scrubbing. Then he turned back to Moira.

“Maybe he just doesn’t want you to have to go through this… roller coaster again.” He’d watched the family (soon to be his own family) carefully over the last week as they worked to navigate Moira’s behavior. He’d lain in bed with David and listened as David told him the story of when his mother’s character had been permanently killed off of Sunset Bay, how she spent almost a month curled up in an admittedly much larger and more luxurious closet, popping pills and weeping, occasionally emerging to perform her grief in front of the family when she felt like they’d been ignoring her for too long. He’d sat with Alexis in the dressing room backstage before their Cabaret performances, watching her organize and reorganize her makeup case while she talked like her mother’s behavior wasn’t a burden on her psyche when clearly it was. He’d also seen the worry and lack of sleep on Johnny Rose’s face. “He’s probably just worried about you,” Patrick added.

“Well, there’s nothing at all to worry about,” Moira said, her voice louder and her vowels stretched to their limit, but then just as quickly her shoulders dropped and when she spoke again, her voice was a little more normal, more subdued. “He’s become content with our life here. He doesn’t understand why I’m not.”

Patrick’s stomach churned at that. The parallel between Johnny and Moira’s relationship and his own wasn’t lost on him. Yes, David seemed mostly content with the life they were building here, but every time some fact of their rural existence made David huff and roll his eyes and complain, a part of Patrick wondered how long that contentment would last. If perhaps they had different visions for where their lives would be in ten or twenty or thirty years. It wasn’t something they’d really talked about much. It was something they definitely needed to talk about more.

“I think as long as you’re happy, Mr. Rose will be happy,” Patrick said, an echo of the words he’d said to David at Elmbridge Manor. “Even if it means that you end up…” He didn’t want to say the words out loud, as if saying them would manifest the fact of them. “Even if you end up moving away.”

Moira patted him on the hand again. “I envy you and David, poised here in the starting blocks with your whole lives ahead of you, your time together to be tallied in decades. Being a team as you run the race of life makes the hurdles easier to gambol over, I assure you.”

Patrick wasn’t sure Moira’s racing analogy made any logical sense, but he appreciated the sentiment. “Yeah.”

David appeared from around the corner of the motel then, a spray bottle of insect repellent in one hand. He’d changed out of the culottes that Patrick had initially mistaken for a skirt (and his attraction to David in a skirt was definitely something they would need to revisit later) and into jeans, probably to protect himself more effectively from bugs. The sun was starting to drop in the sky, the onset of evening giving everything a golden-red glow.

“Hey,” Patrick said, reaching out for David’s free hand. “Need me to spray that on for you?”

“No, I’m good,” David said, leaning over and kissing the top of Patrick’s head. It was an almost unbearably sweet gesture. “I brought this for you. I know how much mosquitoes adore you.”

“As much as you do?” Patrick said, taking the bug spray as Moira got up and tottered across the grass on her 5-inch heels toward her husband at the grill.

“Mmm, possibly, and I’m very jealous,” David said, giving Patrick an eye-crinkling smile. He’d been giving Patrick more and more of those smiles over the last several months, as if somewhere between I-love-you and easiest-decision-of-my-life, the muscles in David’s face that suppressed his smiles had decided to take a succession of long-deserved naps.

“How jealous though?” Patrick asked, pulling David down onto the bench beside him.

David straddled the bench seat and then leaned close and kissed him, his smile drawing together as his lips pressed against Patrick’s. Out of the corner of his eye as he pulled away from David, Patrick could see Johnny and Moira kissing too.

“It’s not just because Alexis is your sister, you know,” Patrick said.

David frowned. “What?”

“The reason it’s important for her to be at our wedding. It’s not just because she’s your sister, although obviously that’s important. It’s also because she’s been there for us from the beginning. She was the first person you told that we kissed.”

Rolling his eyes, David settled his ringed fingers onto Patrick’s thigh. “That’s because we shared a tiny living space and she always notices when there’s something going on with me.”

“And she’s always rooted for us.” Patrick recalled several talks he’d had with Alexis in the early months of their relationship, while he was ostensibly helping her with her Elmdale College classes. Those conversations had helped him understand better what it meant to love David. It’s possible that without them, he and David may not have made it to this point. “I need her to be there. It wouldn’t feel right to me, getting married without Alexis there.”

David’s hand moved up and down Patrick’s leg. “I guess… it wouldn’t feel right to me either,” he said grudgingly. “But don’t tell her I said that,” David whispered quickly as Alexis rejoined them at the table with Stevie at her side and a couple of bottles of wine in hand.

Patrick turned and mimicked David’s position on the bench so that he could lean back against David’s chest, letting his fiancé support his weight. He closed his eyes against the setting sun, the warmth of it on his face. Whatever the future held for any of them, at that moment he felt like all of them were invincible, held upright by the sheer force of their love for each other to face it head-on.

#schitt's creek ff #schitt's creek fic #david x patrick ff #david x patrick fic #sc s6 #sc spoilers #my fic

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hollerace · 4 years ago

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Mrs. Wahlstrom--Feb 5, 2021

How do you get into a fight the first time you see someone? When you’re the ripe old age of six? That’s the way it happened with Lloyd Tichey and me. We had just moved in to Midfield Avenue. I saw a kid across the street, playing between the two garages that took up the block. I crossed the street to inspect and got pelted with a clod of dirt for my trouble. I found a hiding spot and armed myself. After a brief fusillade, I poked my head out; so did Lloyd, who said, “My mom’s got iced tea.” Within first sips, our friendship was cemented. Lloyd was younger than I, not by much. He was a bit taller (who wasn't?) and better at sports and games. The surrounding streets were our arena, with plenty of kids and fewer cars. Were moms really allowed to drive? Not in our neighborhood. It didn’t take us long to confront a common enemy. Mrs. Wahlstrom lived next to me and anointed herself the personal enemy of kids having fun. She appeared regularly in attempts to quelch our enjoyment. Some of the games could attain high volume levels, particularly kickball. The sport was similar to baseball. An inflated ball would be rolled to the “batter.” You can figure out the rest. Four bases, hits, runs, enjoyment. Wacky Wahlstrom, as we called her, used her porch as her pulpit. Fortunately for us, she was a native Swedish (we guessed) speaker. Diatribes, accompanied by boney, croney finger-points, began with, “You keeds,” followed by screechy, unintelligible syllables, accented with various avian screeches, hoots and gabbling. Since she was a grownup, we didn’t sass her back, nor did we listen to her admonitions. Occasionally, a ball would find its way onto her porch. The nearest kid would race up there to retrieve the precious piece before she could confiscate it. Lloyd Tichey (pronounced “Ticky”) feared her least. He would march right up to Mrs. Wahlstrom and face her down until she surrendered whatever she had just nicked from us. One time, during a game break, I opined, “I wonder if there was ever a Mister Wahlstrom?” Several theories ensued. Lloyd’s stance was, “There was a guy, once. He musta killed himself.” We howled. Lloyd had an older brother, Barry, who was in my grade. He was quiet, virtually tacit, forever riding his bike down to Birch Creek to fish. An even older brother (Jimmy, I think) lived elsewhere. He was wild-eyed with bushy uneven hair and given to loud forms of addressing anyone. “WHAT ARE YOU DOING, TIMMY?” he would shriek as he raced from his car to the house. I never knew how to answer him. Mr. Tichey was a dapper, tanned, mustachioed man who travelled for work. His wife always looked furrowed; she seemed to worry a weathered washcloth in her hands as she walked about the neighborhood. She was followed everywhere by Baby Myra, a rotund little girl whose face needed constant swipes by her mom’s accessory. Their house smelled of cabbage. All the kids looked to Lloyd for leadership. He was a skilled organizer of games--a natural arbiter. If there was ever a problem, Lloyd seemed to rule. For a time, Dark Mark Longuiel, who lived down by The Field, started hanging around our street. He readily disagreed with anyone, and always seemed champing for a dispute. He even got mad at Ellen Botsford, who was far and away the prettiest girl who played with us. (Yes, we needed no Title IX; we just naturally went co-ed.). Lloyd Tichey got in his face. Harsh words, no blows, no Mark. As we grew, street play lost its popularity. We rarely saw Mrs. Wahlstrom. Once, when she was inching her ancient DeSoto down the driveway at a glacier’s pace, little Martin Botsford yelled, “Hey, Wacky Wahlstrom!” Lloyd immediately shut him down. “Leave her be,” he said sharply. Little Martin was already growing into quite the pain. But the little old lady seemed to fade into her dun, once-burgundy house. “She must have eighty Wiffle Balls in there,” remarked Lloyd one time. He remained an untitled leader in the ‘hood, but I was his consigliere, so to speak. Lloyd would ask me Big Questions. Many of these were about the aforementioned Ellen Botsford.

We were approaching the age where kickball dimmed in intergender activities. Most summer evenings, we played a game of Chase. This was a sort of an offshoot of the classic pastime, but much more hiding was effected as opposed to any seeking. I was just emerging from one of my favorite lairs, behind Crabby Creiner’s shed. I just happened to spy Lloyd Tichey and Ellen Botsford sneaking out of Muldoon’s lot, which provided excellent leafy cover. They were holding hands.

Wait! What? Suddenly, the rules of every game changed. Such manual interlocking was a brave, new world to a pre-shaving Catholic boy, at once exciting and terrifying. But Lloyd and Ellen? No way! No wonder all the questions.

I guess I liked some girls. There was a brief crush on Lisa Longborg, who was our eighth-grade lunch monitor. A veritable amazon at five-seven, she would camp at Sister’s desk while we ate on days too wet for recess. I would invent reasons to approach the desk while she sat there, imperious over her bologna-on-Wonder (pencil-sharpening was a good one), managing to sneak glances at her ever-burgeoning mammarial development. I wasn’t the only boy to attempt this ruse.

There was also the exotic, raven-tressed Ann Marie Pandolfo, whose glamour faded for me when she ironed a Paul Anka image on the back of her coat. This also garnered the disapproval of The Good Sisters.

I barely had the chance to recover from this tectonic shift in my life-views when another tremor hit. Lloyd announced that his family was moving up to Northfield, a suburb some ten miles north of town.

It seems Mr. Tichey had earned some sort of promotion at work, enabling his brood to improve their lifestyles. I was forlorn at first, then resigned.

The school year was bearable (Lloyd went to the public school), but that first summer loomed dusty, empty and stifling. There was the LAG (Lark Avenue Gang) for fun, just a couple of blocks away. Games of Chase still took place. Again I hid alone, noticing that more and more couples were pairing off.

My father even drove me up to Northford once to visit. The streets had no sidewalks or phone poles, with names like Chipshot Road or Rolling Mews Lane.

The Ticheys had a big, split-level ranch, a bigger yard. As neat as it was to see Lloyd, the entire scenario loomed disjoint, foreign. Even Baby Myra seemed clean, and the house didn’t smell of cabbage

.I didn’t realize our city was slowly draining. People, stores and services were migrating. And a friendship faded, tattered pages of memories from a book hidden away on a musty shelf.

Not long after, I went off to Campion Prep; Lloyd ended up at Northfield High. I found the drums and Lloyd did the same for basketball. Our teams never played each other, for my school kept an urban schedule. But the Despatch would cover Lloyd’s games, where his star would shine brighter as we neared graduation.

No sports legend, I even took Ellen Botsford to the movies once. She later ditched me for a Campion U. guy who had a sleek Honda bike. Who could blame her?

When I returned home after my freshman year at Sacre Coeur College, I fielded an odd phone call. It was from Mrs. Tichey. Her voice trembled as she told me how Lloyd had joined the Marines right after graduation. This unnerved me. I had thought for sure that a hoops scholarship awaited him. I asked for a way to get in touch. She gave me an FPO address. I wrote to him in vain.

Two summers later, I was rehearsing nightly with a local band, awaiting our maiden visit to a recording studio. One evening, a long Cadillac convertible pulled up to the house. Inside was Lloyd Tichey, in civilian clothes, but looking every bit the cut-and-pressed Marine.

Surprised, I hopped in, and we drove down to Lady’s, the seawall where Park Terrace met the Sound. It was his father’s ride, but Lloyd produced some cold Schaefers.

“I’m sick of this Honor Guard, shit, Timmy,” he began. An influential state senator from Northfield had arranged for Lloyd to secure this light-duty post at the governor’s mansion in Hartford.

“But, Lloyd,” I said, “this keeps you out of the war. Easy going.”

“Bullshit. Anyone can carry a flag. I’m a Marine; I want to fight.” I saw this was no time to voice my concerns over the Viet mess we had gotten into. His anger blossomed: sharp eyes, tightened features. I felt the tension.

We drank in silence. We both knew an argument was futile. As he dropped me off, we shared a brief hug, something we had never done as kids.

Our lives, like two opposing streams, changed courses, each divining its own path, surging forward in separate worlds.The ne

xt May, I read in the paper about Operation Georgia in Viet Nam. What made me notice was that the 9th Marines were involved. Lloyd’s unit.

I didn’t get a phone call. Reading the article in the Despatch galvanized my spine. I didn’t care about the heroes in Quang Nam province. But the article did include that a Lloyd Tichey of Northford wouldn’t be returning home. His remains, however, would.

I gleaned that there would be full military honors at Quantico, but not until a viewing was scheduled here in the city.My mom had sold the house by then, but on the day of the wake, I drove down Midfield Avenue. Why? An unseen force directed me down our old street. Maybe I wasn’t that surprised to see a cab pulled up next door to my old house.

I parked and walked over to the cabbie. “What’s the fare?”

“Some Mrs. Wallstorm. Goin’ ta Wolke’s funeral parlor. Sposta wait.”

I tipped him and told him to grab a better fare. Soon, she appeared on her porch. Hunched over like a question mark, she made for the stairs. I hustled over to help her. How old could she be? She seemed ancient when we were kids. I cradled her elbow as she descended.

“I gotcha, Mrs. Wahlstrom,” I said. She finally looked up, peering at me through veiled, powdery crinkles. I was afraid her arm, impossibly frail, would collapse under my grip.

“Oh,” she said, “leetle Teemy. We go see Lloyd, no?”

We drove the mile or so in silence. Every other time I had listened to her, she was yelling at me. This, somehow, seemed more appropriate.

My buddy, Juice Staley, worked at Wolke’s, so he procured a wheelchair for my passenger, who seemed grateful. We briefly stood beside the closed casket, bedecked with Old Glory. We were greeted by a forlorn Mrs. Tichey, looking uncomfortable in a dress. No husband in sight. She was propped up by Myra, now a young woman. I could see Mrs. Tichey’s washcloth lingering on a nearby chair. Jimmy, no longer wild-eyed, comforted Barry. The scene was fraught with an uncomfortable confusion.

No one seemed to recognize Mrs. Whalstrom, and I saw no fruit in explaining who she was. Some folks, obviously from the suburbs, entered to pay respects. This eased my tautness. Mrs. Wahlstrom gave me a look that said, “Enough,” and we made our way out.

We passed a Marine officer, all gussied up in his dress blues. He said, “Folks, you might want to stay. We are having a color guard, and an armed salute…”

Mrs. Wahlstrom, still in her wheelchair, was having none of this. “YOU GO TO HELL, MEESTER! ALL YOU KNOW IS FIGHT! FOR WHAT? TO KEEL YOUNG BOYS LIKE LLOYD!”

The man bristled and said, “You best get her out of here, you damned hippie,” he said. I answered with a mock, left-handed salute.

All Mrs. W. could manage on the drive home was, “I guess I told heem!”

At her house, she said, “You come in for tea, Teemy. You must.” How could I refuse this?I had never dared to venture through the door before this moment. I was a bit frightened as I did so. “You seet, Teemy,” she said, leading me into a living room. I rested, cradled in comfy cushions bedecked with lace antimacassars. I could smell the furniture polish and soak in the patina of age that seemed to settle on everything.

Then, I shot out of my seat, drawn to an opposite wall. It was covered with decorations, almost a shrine. There were dreamed newspaper clippings (“Tichey Scores 38 in Tourney Win”); pictures of Lloyd as an All-Stater. Handshakes, trophies: a celebration of Lloyd’s career. Looking further, I could see clips from my Who’s Who in American Colleges honors. Even that shot from an old Billboard when they handed out those Sesame Street gold records.

I stood there, in awe (was it joy? terror?) as she brought in the tea. She sensed my questions as we sat.“

I had no keeds, Teemy. You and Lloyd--good boys. Noisy but good. So I follow you, like you was my own boys.”

As the murky, late-afternoon sun slithered through the blinds, I could hear the thump of a ball and the shouts of youth. I fought tears mightily.

Somehow, it all made sense.

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samuelkwinchester · 5 years ago

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14.11 - Sister!Winchester

Warnings: Language, Gore (kind of?), Mentions of rape, Unwanted touching (isn’t super detailed and doesn’t get very far, but please avoid if easily triggered).

Summary: Hope Winchester is Sam and Dean’s little sister from a different mom. This takes place during the events of season 14 episode 11, “Damaged Goods,” when Dean visits his mother and Nick is searching for her so that he can get revenge. Unfortunately, Hope gets caught in the crossfire between Nick and his obsession to find who killed his family

(I know that the picture is not from the episode, but bear with me. Also, it is not mine)

Enjoy :)

“Sam, I’m worried about Dean…” I whispered into the phone.

“What’s wrong, Hope?” Sammy asked, his breath hitching in his throat.

“Dean is getting real close with Mar- mom. Plus he’s been in the shed for almost an hour now. There’s a lot of noise going on. I think it’s a blowtorch and maybe some sort of power saw? I don’t know. Either way, he had a lot of books with him. And that’s really not like him. You know that, Sam. He’s just not himself. I mean, I know with Michael being stuck in his head and all, but really thi-”

“Hope. Breathe.” Sam commanded through the phone. “It’s gonna be okay. I’ll be over in maybe four hours, give or take. Stay there, stay alert, and stay safe. You have your phone, so call me if you need me. I’ll be there soon, okay?”

“O-okay.” I said shallowly. The phone went dead.

I got up from my curled up position on my bed. The sun had gone down, and the room was no longer visible. I shivered, remembering what dad had said about the dark. My feet touched the cold, bedroom floor. I carefully guided myself toward the lightswitch, finding the panel, and switching it on.

The floor was pristine, obviously hadn’t been walked on in at least a few months. I looked in the mirror next to the doorway. There I stood, dressed in a simple pair of light denim ripped jeans (which Sam and Dean gave me a lot of crap for), a black short-sleeved undershirt, and a red and black flannel. My socks were black, warm, and fuzzy. Dean got them for me around Halloween, when the weather started to get cold.

I quickly looked away from the mirror, and walked into the hallway, down the wood stairs. I walked into the kitchen, smelling something greasy and… familiar?

“Hope!” Dean smiled at me from the kitchen. “You hungry? Mom and I were making and old favorite- Winchester Surprise!”

I forced a smile on my face. “Of course! Let me go wash up real quick and I’ll join you guys.” Excusing myself to the restroom, I locked the door and leaned against it, doing the one thing I haven’t done in over a year.

“Castiel? If you are hearing this, I need you to stay where you are. I just wanted to tell you that I’m with Dean and Mary. Dean doesn’t seem to be doing well. He’s not like himself. I just wanted to tell you so that you could keep Jack posted. He deserves to know as much as I do, especially with everything going on right now. I’ll keep you up to date.”

“Jeez, Dean. I can’t believe you remember how I used to feed you and John this dish. It’s so… greasy.” Mary smiled, reliving old memories that I obviously wasn’t apart of.

“How could I forget? I love this stuff.” Dean smiled, stuffing his face with this interesting concoction. Meanwhile, I just picked at my food.

“Honey, what’s wrong?” Mar- mom asked.

“I’m just… Not feeling well. I think I might take a walk. Some fresh air might help.” I said, slowly getting up from the dinner table. Before I could get far, Dean grabbed my hand.

“Don’t forget your gun. I’m not letting you step out of my sight without it, okay? Especially out there.” Dean’s eyes glazed over, and I knew that something was eating him up.

“O-okay. Love you, D.” I said before grabbing my gun from the buffet table. Putting the gun in my waistband, I slipped my boots on and walked out the door.

The woods were somewhat of a sanctuary- especially where I’m from. I was raised in Seattle before Sam and Dean found me. Dad was on a case there and met my mom. I was conceived the night they met. Then Dad up and left, but came around for the few birthdays I had (before he died) and the occasional Christmas or Halloween (again, very few). I wasn’t completely special to him, but I was his child. And there was still love given to me from him.

He’d tell me about my brothers before I had even met them. He said that Sammy was a genius going to college so that he could do something with his life besides ‘the family business’- which was what he would call it back then. Dean was described as the legacy of the family, the one who would continue the business.

I hadn’t met them before John died.

Sam and Dean had barged into my house the night my mom died. I was five years old when the demon was killed. That’s when I started touring with the Winchester duo, and I contributed as the final part to the trio. I went through it all with them but stayed with Bobby a lot. When Mary came into the picture, I didn’t know how to react. She wasn’t my mom, but I was Sam and Dean's sister. She accepted me as her own early on, and I love her for it, but I’m still adjusting.

As I walked away from the cabin, I noticed headlights in the distance. I had a bad feeling about it, but I walked away. I knew I would regret it, but I didn’t just how much.

Continuing into the woods, I thought about Dean. What was he doing in the barn? Building something maybe? Or was he just releasing some pent up feelings? Either way, something was up, and I knew there was something he was keeping from me. I know he was possessed by apocalypse Michael, but he knows that at one point I was possessed by Michael from this world. I may not have been possessed for long, but it was still hell. I can remember that much. Especially because Michael only talked about wanting to use my brothers so that he could kill his own. He messed with my head too, and Dean doesn’t realize it. I want him to know I’m here. I need him to know I’m here. He shouldn’t go through this alone. He didn’t let me go through it alone.

I heard sirens coming from the dirt road, which made me feel a little safer but also a little more on edge. I didn’t think there was anything obviously wrong, so it was a shock to know the van was being looked for.

I quickly returned to the road, the cabin nowhere in sight, and turned to see Donna and… Nick? They were fighting, and for a moment it looked like Donna had the upper hand. Then Nick pulled the taser out from nowhere and tazed Donna. I froze, not knowing what to do. I could yell, but that would bring attention to myself. I watched as Nick effortlessly lifted Donna, and put her in the cop car. As he finished up, he turned around and locked eyes on my distant figure.

My blood ran cold- and not because it was near 40 degrees.

I had heard about a killer roaming around the Pike Creek area in Delaware, but I didn’t put two and two together. I should have known- I should have said something.

Nick started to walk towards me, and my body kicked into fight or flight mode.

I started with a jogging pace, getting away from Nick. I started to sprint as I heard a clicking noise. While trying to run in a zig-zag pattern I heard a ‘boom’ and then pain spread throughout my hip. I cried out, the pain was sudden and unforgiving. As I fell, I could feel the blood staining my clothes and my waist. My left hand moved to the wound so I could attempt to stop some bleeding. Everything was in slow motion. I hit the ground with a hard ‘thud’, my head spinning. The pain was almost unbearable, but I’ve had worse. I heard running footsteps and I knew he was coming for me. I took my hand off of the wound and pushed myself back up. I suppressed a groan as I put pressure on my leg, which traveled to my hip. I started to run towards the cabin, praying that I could make it before I either bled out or Nick caught me.

I could see lights, indicating I was close to Dean. Maybe not as close as I’d like, but it was something. Hope filled my veins and pushed me forward. I was so close to being home, so close to having the upper hand in this fight, so close to telling Dean that it was going to be okay. That I was going to be there for him.

Until I wasn’t close anymore.

Hands traveled to my hips, grabbing hard and intentionally pressing against my damaged hip. I choked out a quiet sob. I was caught, and I couldn’t see the light in this situation anymore. I wasn’t just scared- I was terrified. Nowhere left to go.

Game over.

“Where do you think you’re going, princess?” Nick sneered into my ear, obviously rubbing his victory into my face.

“Fuck. You.” I growled. I began to get defensive. I knew that he didn’t need me for anything, but he didn’t want his cover blown either. The worst outcome was that I’d be killed right now, leaving Dean with Michael and without Mary. I’m praying that he doesn’t go down that road.

“Feisty, huh? We can fix that real quick,” Nick pushed harder onto the bullet hole decorating my hip. I hissed at him. “Okay. That didn’t work… I could try something else. Something I remembered from when I was shacked up with Lucifer…”

Okay, I was wrong. Being killed wasn’t the worst scenario.

Nick ran his other hand, the one not putting pressure on my hip, down to my thing and squeezed just slightly. He started to move up, and he pressed up against me. He stopped right before he reached a place I definitely didn’t want him to touch.

“We have two options, Little Winchester. Either you give up, or I bring up some repressed memories. Some that haven’t seen the light of day since they were scarred into your pretty little head. But hey, it’s your choice.” Nick taunted.

My mind was racing a million miles per second. I felt dizzy and nauseous. I actually thought about throwing up on his shoes, but I don’t think I could aim for them. But in all seriousness, my mind was at war with itself. I didn’t want to just give up and be submissive, but I couldn’t risk being killed, or worse.

“Alright. I’ll behave. But you have to promise me something.” I said with the strongest voice I could come up with.

“And… What would that be, Hope?” Nick grinned against my ear.

“Keep Dean and Mary alive. They don’t need to be killed.” I was practically begging and he knew it.

“Okay. We have a deal.” He smiled as he took his hand off my thigh.

I let out a sigh of relief, before suddenly being spun around and lifted over his shoulder. He turned and walked towards the van. The back door of the van was opened and I was shoved inside. I held in a cry as I somehow landed on my hip (just my luck). Next thing I knew the van doors were slammed shut, and my vision was fading fast. My last thoughts were dedicated to my brothers, praying that they’d find me or move on if they didn’t, before I blacked out entirely.

*2nd POV*

“-Dean, he’s going after your mom,” Donna sighed into the phone.

“He who?” Dean asked, feeling very confused yet on guard.

“Uh, some guy named Nick.” Donna finally spit out, and Dean acted immediately.

Dean ran outside after hanging up with Donna, gun in hand. He was going to find that bastard before he found Mary. He walked out of the bushes and onto the dirt road, taking a faster pace. Sticks were broken behind him, and in less than a second his gun was cocked and pointed to whoever was behind him.

“Dean! Woah, easy!” Sam yelled, clearly not wanting to get shot by his brother. “Dean, what’s going on here?”

“It’s Mom,” he rasped. “She’s gone.”

Mary awoke in the van, her head pounding. Her head was resting on something… soft? She slowly opened her eyes to see the ceiling of the van. She pushed herself up and turned to see Hope laying on the floor, bleeding at a steady pace.

“Oh god!” Mary yelled. “Help!”

She scanned the back for anything that could stop the bleeding. She found an old cloth and some alcohol. Perfect. After she shredded the cloth, she poured alcohol onto it and tied it tight around Hope's waist, making sure that it was covering and putting pressure on the wound. Hope shot up, eyes wide open, and fear evident in her eyes.

*1st POV*

I shot up, my eyes wide open, and my heart beating out of my chest. I took in a shaky breath and saw Mary leaning over me.

“Oh, thank god.” She said, tears rolling down her face.

“Hey, Mary.” I croaked out. Smiling, she helped me sit up against her.

The back door swung open, and Nick was standing there with a smirk on his face. I’m not entirely sure why he needed Mary, but I could tell that whatever the reason, it wasn’t good.

“Morning, Ladies!” Nick sang, before hopping into the back with us. Mary pushed me to the far corner, trying to get me as far away from Nick as possible. “Oh, come on, Mary! I wasn’t going to do anything… yet…” He smiled viciously.

“Alright, what do you want?” Mary asked, clearly not happy with the situation she was in.

“You know… The demons, they know where you are,” Nick said, taking a seat across from me. “They keep track of you, you and your kids. They’re sort of scared of you. So wherever you are, they’re not. So that’s how I got to Hibbing. I didn’t have an address. Luckily, that- that perky little sheriff lady- what’s her name? Deborah? Debbie? Something? Whatever. She had some emails on her cellphone talking about you and her family cabin, so here I am.” Mary just glared at him while he rambled.

“I know that’s a lot to take in, but… And if you feel like screaming, you can- you can go ahead cause we’re pretty remote…”

“Nick,” Mary started. “What are you doing?”

Nick got up suddenly and moved right next to me as I flinched. Mary looked slightly afraid, but kept it in knowing that I was watching.

“Tonya Baker,” Nick began. “Yeah, you knew her. You saved her life. Her whole girl scout troop was murdered and she was the only survivor, thanks to you. These two demons were about to finish her off, and then you came in and chased one away but you faced off against the other one, a demon named Abraxas.”

“I remember. So?” Mary snapped.

“So? Abraxas murdered my family the same way he killed those girls- bloody, brutal, slow.” Mary's face fell at his confession, and even I felt bad.

“I’m sorry, Nick,” Mary started. “But you could have just asked me. This, shooting Hope, this is cr-”

“Crazy?” Nick asked, finishing her sentence. “What would you have told me?”

“That I killed him!” Mary raised her voice. “Abraxas is dead.”

“So you would have lied to me?” My eyes widened at his statement. “You didn’t kill him, you trapped him in a box. How’d you do it?”

Mary stuttered. Nick grabbed her coat and shook her. “Tell. Me.”

“Okay, okay. We put him in an Enochian box. He’s contained.”

“Do you have him?” Nick asked, clearly done with beating around the bush.

“No… but I can take you to him.”

Dean and Sam were pacing, waiting for a response from Donna’s radio. Dean was beyond worried. When Sam and him got back, Dean immediately went upstairs to look for Hope. He was praying that she got back while he was sleeping, but when he opened the door to her room, she wasn’t there, and he lost it. Sam was stunned for a minute but began to worry more and more.

Eventually Donna got a trace, and they sped off to Grand Rapids.

We pulled up to a storage unit that, Mary said, had the box containing Abraxas. Nick pulled Mary out of the van, then me. He pulled me along as I struggled to keep up. Mary unlocked the door, and he pushed her inside first before pulling me in.

“Alright, where is it?” Nick asked. Mary remained silent. “Listen, if you tell me where it is, you and little Winchester get to walk away.”

Mary sighed, obviously struggling with her decisions.

“It’s over there.”

Nick looked around while Mary stood still.

“Where is it?” Nick asked, clearly getting angrier by the minute.

“In the lockers…” Mary said. “Too bad I don’t have the key.”

I smiled a little at how dumb she was playing. I liked her style. Nick shrugged, grabbed a machete, and chopped off the lock, moving into the room with the lockers.

“Which one?” Nick asked. Mary just shrugged, not giving him a clear answer.

Nick grunted and shoved me towards Mary. He started to chop off locks again while Mary helped me keep steady.

“Just sit here, hun. Against the lockers.” I nodded and slid down the lockers onto the floor. I was losing steam, and I didn’t know when Dean or Donna would find us. I was rooting for sooner, rather than later.

“Open the box.” Nick said as I looked up.

“Sorry, but you need a host. It can’t be you, it can’t be me,” She lifted her shirt to show her tattoo. “And, it can’t be Hope.” She lifted up my shirt so he could see the tattoo on my side.

“Well, then I’ll improvise.” Nick said, before leaving.

Nick walked in with the security guard from the post out front. He sat him down and pulled the bag off of his head.

“Nick don’t do this-”

“How do I open this thing?” Nick cut her off.

“I don’t know.” Mary sighed.

Nick turned around while trying to figure out the box, which gave Mary a chance to walk up behind him and kick his knees out from under him. She attempted to grab the dropped box, but Nick got back up and kicked her over while she was laying on the ground. I tried to get up and help, but everything was still spinning, and I couldn’t see who was who at this point. I was useless. So I prayed that it wasn’t too late to save us all.

“I said I could handle it!” Nick yelled as he pushed her up against the fence. Nick continued to mess with the box, but then threw it onto the ground. Nick, frustrated as ever, picked up the drill and drilled into the box. Black smoke came from the black cube and flew right into the security guards' mouth.

“Heya, Blondie.” Abraxis cooed at Mary, then looked my way. “Who’s your cute friend?”

“Why’d you kill my family?” Nick demanded.

“Have to be more specific.” Abraxis smirked, clearly messing around.

“Pike Creek, Delaware.” Nick stated, getting emotional.

“Oh. Nick. Why are you walking and talking? I thought the big man had you on lockdown.”

“He’s dead. Now, why did you kill my family?” Nick raised his voice.

“Kill her first, then we’ll talk.” Abraxas looked towards me. “Mary here locked me in a box and I hold a grudge. But I want her to suffer instead. Kill the girl nice and slow, then maybe we’ll talk.”

Nick looked at me.

“Nick,” Mary started with a grin on her face. But Nick looked serious about going through with it. And I was terrified. “Nick! Don’t do it!”

Nick walked toward me slowly, and suddenly my adrenaline kicked in. I needed to get up and run. I tried pushing myself up, but Nick picked up his pace and pounced on me. He straddled my waist as he bound my arms together.

“You ready to die, little Winchester?” Nick sneered as he prepared his knife. He lifted up the knife, and was about to drive it into my stomach, but a gunshot cut him off.

“GET AWAY FROM HER!” Sam yelled, holding Nick at gunpoint.

Nick cowered away from me, and Dean came rushing over to me. His eyes filled with rage as he released my arms and saw my bloody hip. Sam was helping Mary out of her handcuffs while I tried to stand up against the lockers.

“Hey, De.” I said weakly.

“Hey sweetheart.” Dean smiled slightly, struggling to watch me keep myself up.

“Is she okay?” Sam asked, his voice wavering.

“Not sure, Sammy.” Dean sighed. Sam rushed over and gave me a bear hug. I hissed when he held me tight against him.

“What’s wr-” Sam saw my bloody hip, and his face fell. “No, Hope…”

“I-It’s okay, Sammy. I’ll make it.” I chuckled lightly. Sam gave me a kiss on the forehead before pointing his gun at Nick again.

“What are you doing?” Sam questioned.

“What I have to.” Nick said, before grabbing a knife and scraping off a piece of the devil's trap.

“NO-” We all yelled, before being lifted into the air and slammed onto the floor. I groaned out in pain as the cloth fell off of my hip. More blood started to pour onto the floor.

“You wanna know why I killed your family? I was following orders-” Abraxas started.

“From who?” Nick pressed, not giving up.

“Who do you think? Lucifer.” Abraxas smirked.

“I-I don’t understand.” Nick stuttered. “Why me?!”

“You were chosen, but you’re not special. We threw a dart at a phone book and-”

“Exorcizamus te, omnis immundus spiritus, omnis satanica-”

“Stop,” Abraxas said as he forced Dean into one of the storage shelves.

“Dean!” I coughed, looking back to make sure he was okay. He groaned and tried to push himself back up.

“So. Who dies first?” Abraxis asked, before Nick pulled his head back, forced him onto his knees, and stabbed him in the chest.

Nick got up and started swiping at anyone who would come near him.

“Take it easy!” Sam yelled, before Donna shot him in the leg and M- mom knocked him out.

“Payback, bitch.” I choked out a quiet laugh while trying to fight the darkness from taking over.

“Hope!” Sam and Dean yelled, rushing over to me.

“You gotta stay with us, sissy. Okay?” Dean asked, trying to keep me awake.

“N-no pr-omises…” I smirked.

“Even with a bullet in your hip and at least a quarter of your blood on the floor, you’re still a pain in our asses.” Dean chuckled, trying to make light of the situation.

“I try, De.” I smiled, before slipping into the darkness.

I woke up to Dean by my side. I tried to sit up, but my hip was burning.

“Woah. That’s some kick.” I joked, pushing myself up to the headboard. The pain wasn’t nearly as bad, but it still hurt.

“Take it easy, kiddo.” Dean ordered, clearly not messing around. “How are you feeling?”

“Like hell, but I’ll be okay.” I tried to smile, but I just couldn’t. The fight was finally over, and somehow we won. The tears came right after, but I let them fall.

“Hey, it’s okay, sweetheart. It’s over now, I promise.” Dean climbed into the bed with me and held my head against his chest.

“H-he did so much more, De… So much more than just this.” I sobbed.

Sam quietly entered the room while Dean and I sat in silence. He sat down on my other side and kissed my head, letting me know that he was here too.

“W-when he shot me, he… He said he remembered something about me from when Lucifer was possessing him…” I stuttered, more tears flowing but I didn’t care.

“What’d he say, kiddo?” Dean asked, clearly defensive.

“H-he said that he’d use something against me if I didn’t stop fighting him… He moved his other hand to my thigh a-and…” I sucked in a breath, trying to stay calm even though everything in me wanted to scream and thrash. “He made me think he was going to touch me… He knew what had happened to m-me bef-fore… I thought he was going to r-rape me-” I sobbed, wanting to crawl out of my own skin.

“I’m gonna kill him.” Dean growled lowly, getting out of the bed and pacing the floor. “How did he know? Lucifer wasn’t even apart of that… That was another assholes fault…” Deans held his head in his hands.

Sammy comforted me as I continued to sob. My face was buried in his chest, but I didn’t care. Dean sat back down and held me.

“We’re gonna fix this, okay? We’ll get through it together. You’ll always have us. Always.” Sam choked out, trying not to lose it because he wanted to be strong for me.

“We got you, Hope. We love you.”

#supernatural #sister!winchester #the winchesters #winchester sister #damaged goods #dean winchester #sam winchester #mary winchester #season 14 #hope winchester #winchester support

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sparxwrites · 5 years ago

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(once upon a time, i watched this video, fell in love with everything about it, and ended up enthusiastically discussing the mighty mein going noodling with @ladyofrosefire. when i outlined the fic below to her, she then very ill-advisedly encouraged me to write it. so. here we are. in advance: i’m so sorry, and also you’re welcome.

[ao3]

“So– how does this work, again?” asked Fjord, with more than a little hesitation, watching Yasha strip off her armour and shirt until she was left standing in her breastband and trousers under the midday sun. “I mean, obviously, I’ve done this before, but, um, it’s been a while. Little rusty, you know? Just wondering if your technique is any different to mine…”

He himself was already down to just trousers, and Caduceus – ever unashamed – was already buck naked and floating in the creek, straw hat over his face as he let the lazy current tug him gradually further downstream.

Yasha gave Fjord an odd look. “There’s catfish in the holes along the bank,” she said, lowering herself carefully into the creek from the high bank and shivering at the cold of the water on bare skin. The sun was high in the sky, the day hot and bright – Jester was sunning herself on the bank, as a matter of fact – but apparently little of that heat had leeched into the river. “Other creatures build them, and then the catfish take them. So when you find a hole, you put your legs in it, and just sort of… kick around, until the catfish tries to come out. And then you grab it and pull it out of the water.”

“And then you eat it!” cried Nott, triumphantly. “Far away from the river, hopefully.”

“And then you eat it,” agreed Yasha, absently, wading her way into the centre of the creek and submerging herself up to the neck. The look on her face was nothing short of blissful, her hair fanning out behind her atop the water like tendrils of smoke. “Oh, and Fjord? Be careful grabbing the bank. There might be snakes in the grass. Or spiders. Big spiders.”

Fjord swallowed, hard. “Right. Yes! Big spiders. And snakes. Of course. Pretty, um, pretty standard noodling dangers. You know.”

“…You’ve never done this before, have you?” asked Yasha, as Fjord slid gingerly into the water after her.

Hissing at the toe-curling crispness of the creek, Fjord cast a brief, furtive look at the others on the bank. Caleb was engrossed in his book, Beau was busy stripping off, and Nott was arguing with Jester about something or another. They were safe from prying ears.

“Nope!” he said, quietly, and the forcible chirpiness in his own voice made him wince. “Not a clue what I’m doing. Complete beginner.”

Yasha’s face softened a little, as much as it ever did – a slight easing of the tension around her eyes, the barest un-furrowing of her brow. “It’s not that hard,” she offered, tilting her head back to wet the back of her head. The heat and high sun had not agreed with her, the past few days, and it was nice to be cold again. “I’m sure you’ll do–”

“Cannonball!” yelled Beau, which was all the warning any of them got before a monk-shaped blur bombed into the water. Her impressively powerful impact threw up enough of a splash to sprinkle Jester, and nearly enough to spatter Caleb’s book with water. Nott hissed, baring her teeth, and hid herself a little more carefully behind Caleb’s back.

“There go all the fish,” said Fjord, idly, as Beau resurfaced, pink-cheeked and gasping with her hair slicked back against her head.

“Oh, fuck, that’s cold!” she yelped, frantically treading water with half-numb limbs and no breath in her lungs. “Shit.”

“Beau, the fish!” yelled Jester, from the bank.

“Oh, fuck, the fish– oh shit, sorry, my bad–”

Yasha sighed, and submerged herself entirely, letting the water close slowly over her head and silence the noise.

When she re-emerged, Beau was treading water in a slightly more sedate manner, and Jester had stopped shouting quite so loudly. Fjord had made his way over to the bank, a little ways downstream, eyeing the dirt and water in front of him with both determination and trepidation as he began awkwardly hunting for catfish holes.

“Why’s it called noodling, Yasha?” called Jester from her place in the scrub grass, kicking her bare toes idly in the air. She too had stripped down, to just bloomers and a breastband – even Caleb, sat beside her with his nose in a book, had shed his customary coat and undone the front of his shirt. Only Nott was still fully dressed, and glaring at the water like it might bite her. “It’s such a weird name, you, know, like you could call it, oh, catfishing, or fish tickling, or just, like, grabbing fish in holes and wrestling them, or-”

“In my tribe, we always used to say it was because you had to use your noodle,” said Yasha, absently, rapping her knuckles lightly against her skull. She was already combing the opposite bank to Fjord for likely fish-spots, moving this way and that in the water, occasionally pausing to prod at the bank with one leg. She looked focused, but at ease, the tension gone out of her shoulders in a way none of them had seen in a while. “But you’re right. It’s a pretty funny name, when you think about it. I–”

Her words, however, were cut short by a blood-curdling howl.

Every member of the Mighty Nein turned, in unison, towards the source of the noise. Those on the bank who had weapons drew them, and those in the water immediately regretted voluntarily disarming themselves when it seemed clear they would need to fight– something. Some awful, unseen monster, that was apparently attempting to drag Fjord underwater and into the bank, as he clung white-knuckled to an exposed tree-root in an attempt to resist. His screaming was terrible, full-throated and pained, his face twisted in a rictus of agony.

“Oh, oh gods!” he yelled, voice a full octave higher than usual. “I- I found a catfish! And it’s– got my testicle– Oh god, oh dear lord– dear Wildmother, please let it let go, oh-hhhho fuck–”

There was a long moment’s frozen silence, broken only by Fjord’s continued, hollered curses.

“Your… testicle?” repeated Beau, lowering her fists slowly. The look of shock on her face was sliding away, replaced by a twitch at the corner of her mouth that curled into a slow, incredulous grin. “Holy shit, wait, a catfish bit your balls?”

Over on the bank, Nott began to cackle.

With a final, strangled noise of pain, Fjord shot free from whatever hole he’d half sunk into, kicking frantically away from the bank and towards the shallow slope where he could exit the water. His swimming was made distinctly ungainly by the hand dipped low between his legs, cupped over the fork of them in a meagre effort to protect his balls from any other hungry catfish that might be lurking nearby.

“Over here, Fjord!” called Jester, from the bank, helpfully waving her arms above her head in case he had forgotten where they were. “Over here, I can heal you! I will save your balls, don’t worry!”

“No, it’s- I’m fine!” managed Fjord, as he hauled himself out of the creek. As he staggered to his feet and towards their little encampment, there was a distinct limp to his walk. “You really don’t have to– I’ve got it, it’s fine, really! No cleric needed!”

There was the faint, familiar glow of the Wildmother’s healing magic around his fingertips, and the painful stumble of his steps got a little more relaxed.

That didn’t deter Jester, though, from immediately reaching for Fjord’s pants when he flopped down next to them all on the bank. He batted her hands away, flushing a dark copper, his own palm still cupped tenderly between his legs – to protect himself not only from any catfish that might attempt to brave dry land, but from the overly enthusiastic cleric in front of him.

“Are you sure you’re okay, Fjord?” asked Nott, managing to control her laughter for long enough to form words, wiping tears from her eyes. “Maybe Jester should take a look. I mean, it’s not like you can afford to lose a nut, when you’ve barely got a pair to begin with–” She broke off into howls of amusement once more, doubled over with the force of it.

If looks could kill, Fjord’s glare would have dropped Nott dead on the spot.

“Leave the poor man’s testicles alone, the pair of you,” said Caleb, idly, though there was a certain sparkle to his eye as he watched the indignant half-orc drip onto the grass, rubbing at the crease of his thigh. “They have suffered enough already. Bad enough they were used as catfish bait – they do not need you bothering them too.”

In the water, Beau was laughing so hard she was struggling to stay afloat, forced to stop treading water and actually put her feet down to avoid drowning.

Fjord, for some reason, didn’t seem to find the situation quite as funny. “Look, it’s– I’m fine, yes, ha ha, Fjord got his testicles bitten by a fish, can we move on…?” he said, testily, one hand still cupped half-protectively by his crotch. “It’s really not that amusing, Nott, you really don’t have to laugh–”

“The fish only bit one ball, though,” Jester interrupted, ignoring him completely. “…Oh my gosh, Fjord, do you have a ball that’s, like, your juicy ball? Is that a thing? Caleb, is having one really big ball a thing?”

Caleb, his nose back in his book to hide his own amusement, wisely chose not to answer.

“Where’s Caduceus?!” demanded Jester. “I feel like he should, you know, be an expert on this. Since he’s a cleric, and he also has balls, and everything.”

“Ah, Caduceus is– gone, I think.” Caleb didn’t look up from his book, flipping a page as he spoke – more for show than anything, still trying to stifle his own chuckles. “He left a while ago.”

Jester blinked, looking around frantically as though Caduceus might materialise from one of the scrubby bushes around them if she looked at it hard enough. “Gone? What do you mean, gone? Why would he leave? When is he coming back?! Oh my gosh, is he gone forever, I never even-”

“Nein,” said Caleb, finally glancing at her for a second in fond exasperation, “not forever. He just went off downstream. I’m sure he will be back in his own time.”

It took Fjord, distracted by his still faintly throbbing testicle, a moment to parse that particular comment. “Off down… you mean, Caduceus just drifted off?” he asked, slow and incredulous. “And no one thought to, I don’t know, go after him, or stop him? You just let him go. Down the river. That’s full of vicious catfish. And we have no idea where it goes.”

“He looked so peaceful in the water.” Jester pouted, clearly offended at the implication that losing Caduceus was even partially her fault. “Like he was asleep, or something! I didn’t want to wake him up or, you know, disturb him, or…”

“He was asleep?! That makes it worse!”

“I didn’t think he would just drift off, Fjord, oh my gosh–”

There was a distant splash from the river, some soft cursing, and some more splashing. “I got one!” called Yasha, a moment later, mild delight colouring her usually flat voice. “A catfish, for dinner. A big one.”

The others turned, as one, to the creek. There stood Yasha, chest-deep in water, sopping wet, and holding a catfish over her head. An enormous catfish. It was easily longer than Nott was tall, thrashing indignantly in Yasha’s grip with an alarming amount of power in its fat, slippery body. Her fingers, hooked into its mouth and wrapped around its tail, were grazed bloody from the same powerful jaws and sandpapery teeth that had menaced Fjord’s testicle.

“Holy shit, Yasha!” yelled Jester, delightedly. “It’s huge! I didn’t know fish even got that big!”

Beau whistled low and long in the water, drifting to one side to let Yasha pass. “Maybe even as big as Fjord’s ball!” she called, grinning as Fjord flipped her an obscene gesture from the catfish-free safety of dry land.

Yasha waded her way through the creek to the bank, Beau trailing a few feet behind. Exiting the water was something of an adventure, with both hands full of squirming catfish – but, between her and Beau, they managed it, Yasha scrambling out with her fingers hooked in the creature’s gills as Beau supported the tail.

“It was a good fight. This is going to make beautiful food,” said Yasha, quiet pride in her voice, as she heaved her prize down onto the blanket next to Caleb, much to Caleb’s visible displeasure. It gave a single, deeply half-hearted flop, and then fell still, one beady eye staring balefully at the wizard as he shuffled over to put a good foot-and-a-half between him and the fish. “I hope Caduceus will cook it for us, even if he doesn’t–”

She paused, mid sentence, looking over at Beau clambering out of the otherwise-empty creek. Her gaze slid back to group clustered on the bank, counting over them, marking the absence of a certain, conspicuous, pink firbolg. “Hey,” she asked, frowning, as Beau flopped down next to the fish, dripping wet and pink with the cold of the creek. “Has anyone seen Caduceus…?”

#critical role #critfic #critical role fanfiction #fjord stone #yasha nydoorin #critrole 2.0 #fic #guys PLEASE go watch that video. i know it's 40mins long but it's So Fucking Funny #anyways this is like. pure dumbassery. not quite crackfic but close #fjord... i'm So Sorry.....

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queenofthearchitect · 5 years ago

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Victim Chapter 4.

A/N: I hope you guys have been liking Ashely’s little crazy ride, who knows what the next crazy story will be, guess we will have to find out.

Summary: Summary: Ashely moved to Davenport Iowa to get a new view on life from her recent one in Florida, but what happens when she falls for a guy and he’s not what he made himself out to be? Well read and find out.

Warnings: this will include blood, physical abuse, and someone dying so please consider yourself warned

Trigger wanting: forced sex if you are a victim of forced sex I’m so sorry that has happened please don’t read this because I don’t want to trigger anyone, love y’all.

Tagging: @the-beastslayers-queen @theworldofotps @wolfiegal98 @darktammy

Please enjoy🦖

I woke up with a splitting headache,I tired to move but I realized I was tied up. I looked around and noticed in fact I was tied up and handcuffed to a hair, the only question was who had tied me up. The door opened and there he was, my vision was in and out and I couldn’t exactly see who it was until they threw water in my face. My heart dropped to my stomach when I seen Colby coming into view and he had a scary look in his eyes, “well I’m glad your finally up I was worried I hit you too hard.” I looked at him and I struggled against his ropes.

“Your not going to escape I use to be in Boy Scouts.” My head snapped up and himthats when fear set in “Why are you doing this?” He let out a laugh “because your mine and I’m not going to lose you.” I looked at him and anger coursed through my veins “you don’t fucking own me the only thing you’ve lost is your mind.” He didn’t respond but instead i got an open hand slap to my face I gasped at feeling the sting on my face and my eyes water.

I looked at him he slapped me again, “I’m not fucking crazy and you better watch yourself Ashely with your little outburst or I will hurt you.” I didn’t care about him hurting me I just wanted to know why. “Colby why would you do this to me.” He looked at me and laughed “because Ashely I had to make sure you knew how much you needed me cause I could have been this sweet little guy or the S guy you’ve only seen a small bit before, it usually takes girls a while to figure out but I guess I underestimated you.” I looked around and trying to know where I was, the place looked familiar but it wasn’t my house.

A few minutes passed with him talking and that’s when it came to me, I was in his basement you must be thinking how did I know, Well let’s just say we may have fucked down here while he had company. Colby’s phone went off and he looked at it and he chuckled “well as much as I don’t want to leave you, I guess I have to but don’t worry I’ll see you later baby girl.” He walked over and kissed my lips and I spit in his face, he raised up and chuckled. He turned around and I thought he was going to walk away but he landed a stiff right hook to my face and everything went black.

Days passed and I started to lose hope that I would get free, or that someone would come looking for me. Colby’s routine was the same he would bring me food and water but he fed me, he also wouldn’t let me drink he had to. Today was no different than the others but while he was feeding me a car pulled up he jumped up and ran over and checked something and he started panicking and he walked over to me and he tapped my mouth shut. “If you say one fucking word I’ll blow your fucking head off.” I gulped and I nodded showing him I understood, he went upstairs and about 5 minutes passed and I heard the car leave and then Colby came back into the room.

He rubbed my hair “good girl now where were we?” He started kissing my neck and I started struggling against him, after he was done tears rolled down my face and I felt dirty, extremely dirty I was no longer a virgin but it felt like I was in that moment. that dirtiness soon turned into shame. I felt weak and vulnerable. He took the tape off my face while he raped me, I looked at him and he rubbed the tear off of me and I leaned away from his touch. “Don’t touch me you creep, you already knew you had me why go this far to show that you owned me?” He shook his head and he narrowed his eyes and leaned in. “I was going to isolate you so you would only have to depend on me.”

I let out a laugh “you’re so pathetic I mean what kind of man forces a woman to stay with him, let me guess you have mommy or daddy issues? Did mommy and daddy not love you enough as a kid, Well let me tell you if I was your parents I’d feel embarrassed to call you my kid too.” He didn’t face me the whole time he punched me in my mouth and I immediately tasted blood and I spit it on him and he punched me again but on my nose and I heard it crack. My nose started bleeding and he held a towel against it and he narrowed his eyes at me again. “Romans been looking for you and luckily he hasn’t came here cause I’d hate to have to kill him over you.”

I looked at him and I couldn’t believe my ears. “I’m nothing special do why kill someone you’ve known for years for someone you just met.” He looked at you and laughed Ashely you are perfect, your my everything and you will be mine.” I was so scared I didn’t say anything but he went to say something but someone was shouting his name “Colby where the fuck is she?” He pulled away and went upstairs and I heard a few exchanges and then someone hit the floor the door basement door opened and I cried seeing who it was.

Roman ran through the basement door right to me, He started untying me. “Roman where is he?” He didn’t look up while he was untying me. “He’s knocked out on the floor.” When he got my hands and feet Untied I stood up and I hugged him and I started crying “t-thank you.” He went to say something when we heard the floor boards creaking and Colby was getting closer to the basement “Ashely go hide now.” I looked at him “what about you?” He smiled “don’t worry about me.” I kissed his cheek and I went and hid Colby busted through the door and I seen a rage wash over him and he tackled Roman.

They started fighting and Colby got the upper hand and Roman told me to run so I did when Colby saw me he tried to get up but Roman grabbed him I saw them both standing up while I waited at the top of the stairs and then I heard a gunshot so I waited and the lights shut off and my breathing started to pick up and I was walking around his house softly when I heard the top of the basement door slam shut “Ashely I know you're up here and you're not going to be able to escape.” I started feeling my way round when I accidentally knock something over and it broke so I walked quickly to the kitchen and I felt for a knife and I grabbed it.

I felt him grab me and I stabbed him right in his leg he let out a yell and slammed my head on the kitchen counter and I felt it split my head open and I started crawling away from him my eyes quickly adjusting to the dark and I saw his body he pulled the knife out and continued to chase me he picked me up and I punched him right in his face, he picked me up and threw me across the room. I got up and went upstairs and I went into the bathroom and quietly shut and locked the door I bandaged my head and I heard him walk by and I quickly went out I started walking Towards the stairs again when I heard him running at me and he suplexed me out the window.

I landed hard and I stood up and I started limping to the shed and I felt around until I felt an axe, I knew I had to finish This once and for all I limped back to the front door and I cleaned the blood off my lip. I kicked the door open and I started walking upstairs and I heard the step creek behind I hit him in the shoulder with the sharp side of the axe and he grabbed me by my waist and threw me downstairs. That’s when I felt my leg crack and I let out a loud scream, I crawled down the basement steps and I seen Roman and I let out a cry blood surrounded him and I shook his lifeless body and I started crying I grabbed his gun from the holster and I cocked it and turned it off safety.

I heard him walking down the basement step and boy he sounded totally different when I first met him “Ashely I’m going to fucking kill you now.” I gulped and I took a deep breaths in and I aimed and waited for him my vision started to blur at the loss of blood and when I started to see two of him come into view I shot. He fell down the step and didn’t move, I got up and I hobbled yo the stairs and I called 911 and i told them what happened, when I hung up someone grabbed me. I turned around and I saw Roman and I smiled and he asked me if I was okay but before I answered I passed out.

I was woken up by the sound of beeping and the bright hospital lights blinded me, I blinked until my vision came back and I looked around and Roman was right there, “Ro-Roman what happened.” He looked at me and smiled “you lost a lot of blood and broken a leg and a few cracked ribs but other than that your fine.” I looked at him while he grabbed my hand “I thought you were dead.” He let out a chuckle his bullet grazed my head and besides “I knew I wasn’t going to give up on you because I’m in love with you.” I sighed, “What happened to him?” He let out a laugh “you did a number on him Ashley.” I let out a laugh, “am I safe now?” He nodded his head “will you go on a date with me?” I smiled and kissed his hand “yes I will.”

A/N: I’m sad this had to end but I felt like it was time I plan on writing a epilogue for this so keep an eye out.

#wwe #wwe imagine #amandawrites #wwe x reader #seth rollins #seth rollins x reader #wwe superstars #seth freakin rollins #seth rollins fan fic #seth rollins angst #seth rollins imagine

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ramblings-of-a-gen-z-teen · 6 years ago

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Ten Years of a Better World Part IV - A Post Kingdom of Ash Fanfic

Perranth

Elide is jolted awake by a sharp pain in her ankle. The bed shakes with the bouncing crawl of a little one climbing into her parents bed. Lorcan is awoken by a hand to the face and a quiet voice. “Oops, sorry Daddy,” Lorcan’s dark eyes cloudy with sleep open to find Mary’s dark eyes and rosy cheeks filling his vision. Even now, when he’s just awoken, Elide can already feel his power, a firm brace around her ankle. She smiles, rubbing her eyes against the pull of sleep. “Good morning, beautiful,” she says to Mary. “Good morning to you too,” Lorcan replies fluttering his eyelashes at his wife. “Da-ad. She meant me. You’re too ugly.” Mary laughs. “Och, I’m not beautiful?’ Lorcan feigns hurt, “What about my flowing locks?” He flicks his hair over his shoulder dramatically. Mary giggles grabbing his hands to stop him, “Okay, Dad. You are beautiful,” she laughs again, “But not more than me.” Lorcan howls lifting her in the air, “Your right! How could I, even with such dashing hair, be more beautiful than you, my gorgeous girl,”

Elide’s heart swells. Her warrior husband always surprises her with his gentleness. He sheds his armour with family though it makes an appearance when with their friends. Armour really is the only way to survive around them, she supposes, especially Aelin. Lorcan’s name and title is not something the Queen will drop, not even after ten years. But even so, Lorcan is more loving and openly affectionate than she ever would have hoped when they first married. And he melted when Mary was born, he cried, he will do anything for her. Which is great, although sometimes he goes a bit too far and Elide has to be the tough parent. But even then he always backs her up at a seconds notice.

“Come on, Tiger. Let’s get some breakfast.” Lorcan says getting up. Mary bares her teeth, dark eyes glinting. She growls, the animalistic sound a low rumble in her chest, obviously inherited from Lorcan. She pounces on her father giggling as Lorcan catches her, swinging her around before falling back on the bed. “My tiger truly is a fearsome predator,” he says then promptly dies. Elide laughs. Mary certainly is a dangerous mix of both of them. Quiet but ruthless. Shy but deadly serious. Strong but… strong. She’ll lull you into a false sense of security then attack. Lorcan winks at Elide as he takes Mary out of the room. Elide winces as she drags her ankle from under the covers. The pain is near unbearable these days. Bone grinding against bone with every movement. She dreads the pain of Yrene fixing it later this month but she also dreads every movement. Every step she takes. Every morning getting out of bed. But mostly her motivation is Mary. She’s nearly five and so active. It kills Elide to not be able to play with and look after Mary as much as she wants. She feels like a bystander in her own daughter’s life. The smell of bacon draws her from her thoughts. Mary’s giggles drift from the kitchen as Elide reaches for her salve. Before she can dip her fingers into the sticky paste Lorcan appears at the door holding two plates. He places a plate of bacon, eggs and potatoes on her lap, taking the salve from her. “Now,” he says as Mary clambers onto the bed, “be careful. I don't want to have to sleep in your breakfast tonight.” Mary nods seriously as she receives her breakfast then starts digging in like the wild animal she can be. Lorcan kneels beside Elide. “Eat,” he says softly. She rolls her eyes at her fae husband. So overprotective and fussy but she loves it. Lorcan massages the soothing ointment into her ankle. It doesn’t provide much relief anymore but she will take what she can get until Yrene heals her.

The next morning is an early start. Mary is barely awake as Lorcan dresses her in her riding gear. They’ve got a full days ride to Orynth ahead of them. Elide is packing food for the trip while Lorcan tries to get some breakfast into a now dressed Mary. He patiently spoons porridge into her mouth like he had to when she was a toddler. Once everything is ready they head out to the horses. Lorcan helps Elide into the saddle and straps her ankle in. “Don’t push yourself too much, okay. We don’t have to make it there today, we could stay at Lysandra’s or Evangeline’s.” Lorcan says gently. “We’ve done it in a day before, even with Mary.” “You know that’s not what I’m worried about.” His magic pulses pointedly around her ankle. “I’ll be fine,” she smiles, “I’ll tell you if I need a break. Now you’d better strap that child in before she goes to sleep right there on the grass.” She laughs, looking fondly at their child curled up in prime napping position on the dewy grass. Lorcan scoops Mary off of the ground a sleepy smile crosses her face quickly erased by a deep yawn. By mid-morning Mary is fully awake. “Faster, Daddy! Go faster!” she giggles her raven-black hair flowing in the wind. Lorcan looks to Elide, the unspoken words clear on his face. Are you okay? She nods. Go. “Hold on, Tiger!” Their horse races ahead of Elide, Mary’s screams of delight carrying back to her on the wind. A short while later Elide catches up to where Lorcan and Mary have set up their picnic lunch. The horses drink from a small creek while they sit in the shade of a few trees. Elide rubs her aching ankle absentmindedly while she watches Mary chase the butterflies. Lorcan startles her as he slips off her shoe and sock to rub ointment onto her ankle. “Don’t push yourself,” he reminds her. She shakes her head, “I’m fine.”

Mary’s head lolls from side to side as they ride alongside the sunset. Lorcan’s magic propping her upright as she sleeps. As the sky dims they can see the lights of Orynth. Flickering firelight in the castle windows and The Lion’s Gate, imbued with Aelin’s magic, permanently shines. The Lion’s eyes glint and glisten as though in firelight. The thirteen’s statue also glows but not like flames. The statue glows bathed in bright white light, Rowan’s magic. They stop to pay their respects to the thirteen, bowing their heads for a moment. They move on stopping just short of The Lion’s Gate. Here they bow their heads again, this time to remember Gavriel before they pass over the ground he died on. Lorcan’s eyes glisten in the moonlight when he finally lifts his head again. When they move forward again the gate swings open revealing Aelin and Rowan waiting for them. Lorcan hops off the horse and gently plants Mary on his hip, careful not to wake her. “Long day?” Rowan asks in a hushed tone, nodding at Mary. Lorcan nods, “But she loved it. I think it was a longer day for Elide though.” They both glance over to where Aelin helps Elide out of her ankle straps.

“How are you?” Aelin asks as she helps Elide to the ground. “Fine, but I’ll be better when Yrene heals this rutting ankle.” Aelin nods sympathetically, “The pain must be unbearable by now.” “I suppose, but the really unbearable thing is Lorcan’s damned fussing.” They both laugh. “Damned fae bastards,” Aelin chuckles knowing full well both males can hear them.

“Here they come,” Rowan says as they wait in the stable for the girls, “Oh, I forgot to mention-“ “Lord Lorcan Lochan!” Aelin drawls, “What a pleasure to have you in our home.” “She’s been rehearsing,” Rowan finishes. Elide chuckles from behind Aelin as Lorcan’s eyes turn black and his jaw clenches. “Aelin,” he somehow manages to grind out between clenched teeth. “Lord Lochan, as lovely as it is to lay eyes on you I notice you’ve a little one in your arms. Perhaps I should layoff and later we’ll have a lark once you’ve laid this little lady down to sleep.” Aelin smirks, her eyes sparking at the muscle feathering in Lorcan’s jaw every ‘l’ sound she makes. “Lady Elide, shall we cease loitering and head inside?” Once Aelin and Elide have gone Lorcan says, “I’m about ready to kill your wife, Rowan.” From down the corridor comes Aelin’s voice, “Just try to lay hands on me Lord Lorcan Lochan. We’ll see who has the last laugh.” “Is she a heavy sleeper,” Lorcan asks menacingly. “Light as a feather,” Rowan chuckles as Lorcan groans.

Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4

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coldcomputersoul · 4 years ago

Text

Marco vs. the Forces of Love Episode 15: Long Slow Goodbye

Summary: SEASON FINALE It’s a hoot and a holler when Star and the girls mourn the death of Marco. Apparently, things will never be the same at Mewni.

Star vs. the Forces of Evil belongs to:

[theme song]

ACT I

[The episode starts with Ludo carrying a gold bar outside the cave from the previous episode]

Ludo:

[singing] ♫ Gold fever, got me high / Spinning my head without looking in my eyes / Gold fever at a time / We’re gonna get rich before I die ♫ come on girls hurry up, time is money… [laughs]

[Bald eagle and Giant spider carry 20 bars at time, but Giant spider gets too exhausted and stops halfway through the exit]

Ludo:

Hey, what are you doing? Move, move, move!!! you can laze around later...

[Giant spider stands up and keeps carrying the gold on its back]

Ludo:

[sigh] Why do I have to do all the job around here?

[They keep carrying the gold outside the cave when suddenly Mina and his army show up armed with bows and arrows]

Ludo:

Oh, shit...

Mina:

[aiming at Ludo’s head] Alright Avarious, the game is over: You’re under arrest, put your hands behind your neck!!!

Ludo:

[looking at his minions] What’s going on? I thought everyone left Mewni...

Mina:

Not anymore, Toffee was destroyed and everything went back to normal...

Ludo:

Oh, come on!!!

[In that Moment, King River shows up]

King River:

Is everything okay Mina?

Mina:

Yeah, don’t worry your majesty: I have everything under control now...

King River:

[grabbing a gold bar] Oh, thank goodness. I was so worried...

Ludo:

Hey!!! What are you doing? get your filthy hands off my gold!!!

King River:

Gold? What are you talking about? oh, you mean this?

[King River takes the wrap off and reveals that are really chocolate bars]

Ludo:

[baffled] Wait, so you’re telling me this whole stack of gold is nothing but chocolate?!

King River:

My secret stack of chocolate to be more precise, which apparently is not so secret anymore...

Ludo:

B-But how can it be? I mean, those things we’re so heavy...

King River:

Really? wow, you’re such a wimp… take him away.

[The guards handcuff Ludo and take him away along with Bald eagle and Giant spider]

Mina:

I don’t get it, why do you have a secret stack of chocolate?

King River:

My wife don’t let me eat chocolate, she says that it makes me fat... [takes a bite] but what does she know anyway? you want some?

Mina:

Uhm, no thanks, I’m okay...

[Cut to the citizens of Mewni returning to their homes. Meanwhile at the castle, Hekapoo explains to Queen Moon what happened]

Hekapoo:

[petting Nachos] ...and then they vanish into thin air. So far, that’s all I know about what happened...

Queen Moon:

But I still don’t understand how...

Hekapoo:

Look, I’m just as confused as you are, okay? stop asking me about things beyond my comprehension. Besides, this is not the right time.

Omnitraxus:

Well, whatever it was it certainly fixed our previous problem. According to our research, the levels of magic energy are slowly but surely returning back to normal and people will be able to use magic spells in just a couple of weeks.

Rhombulus:

What should we do now?

Queen Moon:

I supposed we should revoke the martial law now that everything went back to normal; that is if you’re 100% sure that is safe to do so...

Omnitraxus:

Don’t worry your majesty, now that Toffee is gone we can reinstate the citizens back to their homes.

Queen Moon:

Then so be it...

Omnitraxus:

I’ll tell Sean to prepare the podium.

Queen Moon:

By the way: Where’s Star?

[Cut to Star, Jackie and Janna watching the giant crater that was formed after Toffee and Marco were disintegrated]

Star:

I couldn’t even say goodbye to him...

Jackie:

[grabbing Star’s shoulder] Star, I just want you to know that if you need a shoulder to cry on, I’ll be there for you anytime you need.

Janna:

You can count on me too Star, just give me a call and I’ll be there for you.

[Star is too devastated to pay them attention]

Star:

[shedding tears] It should have been me Jackie, it should have been me instead of him...

Jackie:

Star, please don’t say that...

Star:

But it’s true. If it weren’t for me and my jealousy, none of this would happened.

Janna:

Oh, come on Star, don’t put all the blame to yourself. We’re all in this together, remember? Star?

[Star keeps watching the crater while she gets on her knees. In that moment, Queen Moon arrives along with the Magic High Commission]

Queen Moon:

Star, Hekapoo told me what happened and I just want you to say I’m sorry. I know how important he was for you. Is there anything I can for you?

Star:

Can you… bring Marco back?

Queen Moon:

[scratching her head] Uhm, I’m sure he had his reasons to...

Star:

[getting angry] Answer the damn question: Can you bring him back or not?!!!

Queen Moon:

[sigh] No... no I can’t.

Star:

Then do me a favor and mind your own business.

Jackie:

Star, that’s not the way to answer to your mother.

Star:

[mocking her] “that’s not the way to answer to your mother” shut up...

Janna:

Hey, leave Jackie alone, don’t vent your anger on us just because you don’t know how to deal with Marco’s death!!! [everyone gasps] I-I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to...

[Star uses dimensional scissors to open a portal and run into it while trying to hide her tears]

Janna:

[facepalm] Oh crap!

Omnitraxus:

So… I guess it’s not the right time to...

Hekapoo:

No, no, no ,just... do what you have to do, okay? the girls and I will take care of princess Butterfly...

Rhombulus:

Okay, we’ll just make our research down the crater and we’ll let you alone… sorry about your loss.

[Omnitraxus and Rhombulus descent into the crater while Queen Moon comforts the girls]

Queen Moon:

First of all: I would like to express my condolences for the loss of Marco. Although I didn’t know him very well, I’m sure he would be glad to know that you’re all okay and I’ll make sure to pay tribute to him and his heroic sacrifice. Also, if there’s anything I can do for you, don’t be afraid to tell me.

Jackie:

[sobbing] We appreciate your kind gesture your majesty, but we have to deal with this all by our own...

Janna:

Actually: It's Marco’s parents you should be talking right now, don’t you think?

Queen Moon:

Oh, you’re right: I forgot about Marco’s parents.

Hekapoo:

Well, if you’re gonna talk to them, you should do it like… right now, because it’s been awhile and they must be worried sick about their son.

Queen Moon:

Right… I better get going. I just don’t know how to handle this situation.

Jackie:

Just be honest and tell them the truth.

Queen Moon:

It’s not that simple, okay? You’ll understand when you’re a mother.

Jackie:

[staring at the ground] Sure I will...

Queen Moon:

Maybe River can help me with this, I’m sure if we go together we can handle this...

[Cut to Marco’s living room. Mrs. Diaz is crying her heart out on her husband’s shoulder while Queen Moon and King River look at each other]

Mrs. Diaz:

[screaming] MY BABY!!! My precious little baby!!! Why? Why Why?!!!

Mr. Diaz:

[hugging his wife] Shhh… it’s okay, just let it out dear...

Queen Moon:

I’m... deeply sorry for what happened to your son Mr. and Mrs. Diaz. I can only imagine the amount of emotional pain you’re feeling right now, so I want to express my condolences to you...

Mr. Diaz:

And we thank you for your understanding and support at this difficult time your majesty. I’m sure Marco would appreciate it.

Queen Moon:

On the contrary: We are the ones who should thank your son for saving Mewni. He was a bold and brave young man who put others before himself.

King River:

Indeed, I had the privilege to know him personally and I can assure you that he was one of a kind. In fact: Our daughter loved him very much and she’s just as devastated as you are right now.

Queen Moon:

Anyway: The reason we’re here is to request your permission to make Marco’s wake ceremony on Mewni. I know for a fact that it’s not very orthodox to do these kind of events outside the family circle, but it would be very important for us...

Mrs. Diaz:

[sobbing] I don’t know, my... husband and I need to talk about it...

Queen Moon:

It’s okay, we understand that you need some time. In case you decide to change your mind, here’s my number...

[Queen Moon gives them her phone number]

Mr. Diaz:

We’ll consider you offer your majesty...

[Meanwhile at the kitchen, the teapot makes a whistling noise]

Mrs. Diaz:

Oh, it looks like the tea is ready, I’ll go for it.

Mr. Diaz:

Wait for me honey...

[Mr. And Mrs. Diaz go to the kitchen leaving Queen Moon and King River alone at the living room]

King River:

Well, I must admit it: you certainly know how to handle these situations.

Queen Moon:

Yeah, I guess, it could’ve been worse. I still feel bad for them though, I mean, losing your only child must be the hardest thing for a parent to endure.

King River:

Can you imagine if it had been Star instead of Marco?

Queen Moon:

I don’t even want to think about it...

King River:

That’s exactly my point. These are the kind of tragedies that makes you reflect about yourself and the thing you have done with your life so far.

Queen Moon:

Wow, that was a surprisingly deep comment River, I’m impressed.

King River:

Oh, so now you’re implying that I’m just a bumbling with nothing important to say.

Queen Moon:

[facepalm] Oh, please don’t start with that again...

[Cut to Echo Creek academy where Alfonzo and Ferguson are crying in front of a picture of Marco while Jackie and Janna try to comfort them]

Ferguson:

[hugging Alfonzo] Why? why? why?!!! he was so young!!!

Alfonzo:

[hugging Ferguson] Now, who’s gonna protect us from the school bullies? we’re so screwed.

Janna:

Guys, listen: I know this is a hard time for all of us, but we have to remain strong and move on...

Ferguson:

Easy for you to say, no one picks on you because you’re a girl...

Alfonzo:

Now without Marco, we’re going back to be the school’s punching bags.

Jackie:

Oh come guys, you’re just exaggerating.

Alfonzo:

But it’s true...

Ferguson:

Yeah, in fact: the only reason you’re talking to us is because we were Marco’s friends.

Janna:

Well, that’s a good point.

Jackie:

[poking Janna] Janna!!!

[Meanwhile, all the students gather around to pay respect to Marco by leaving flowers and other stuff next to the photo]

Blake:

Oh man, this is so depressing.

Evon:

You can say that again.

Dan:

Poor Marco, he had so much potential.

Chet:

Indeed, I remember when he broke Silver Hill’s swimming record like it was yesterday. Such a hard working guy.

Tammy:

But now, he’s swimming in heaven.

[In that moment, Brittney and the cheerleaders show to make an announcement]

Brittney:

[using a megaphone] Attention everyone: *ehem* As the head of the cheerleading team as well as the president of the school committee, it is my duty to inform you that regarding the tragic death of our classmate Marco Diaz, the committee will launch a donation campaign to help Marco’s parents to pay for a proper funeral. Right now, the Diazes are... going through a bit of a hard time economically speaking, so… make sure to make your donations today...

[Sabrina and Chantal hold the donation boxes as she speaks]

Sabrina:

Put your money here, remember: this is for a good cause.

Chantal:

Thank you for your donations, God bless you.

[More people come around to donate money]

Hope:

[donating a dollar] This is so sad, Marco was such a great guy.

Sabrina:

Yeah, tell me about it...

Leah:

[donating two dollars] Now Echo Creek will never be the same...

Chantal:

I get tears off my eyes just to think about it

[In that moment Principal Skeeves shows up completely devastated]

Principal Skeeves:

Oh, my sweet safety boy!!! What am I gonna do without you? where am I gonna find another student who can break another record for me? my entire career is doomed, DOOMED I TELL YOU!!!

[Cut to Janna talking to Brittney]

Janna:

[crossing her arms] Okay Brittney, since when do you care so much about Marco and his family? What are trying to do, virtue signaling?

Brittney:

Janna, Janna, Janna… you’re getting the wrong idea, as much as I never really liked Marco, that doesn’t mean I’m gonna celebrate his demise making fun of everyone. I may look like a cold-hearted bitch, but even I have standards.

Janna:

I was not aware of that.

Brittney:

Besides: Star is the one who I actually despise.

StarFan13:

Speaking of Star: Where is she?

Janna:

[scratching her head] Well, Star is… Uhm, how can I put it?

Jackie:

Star is... still too overwhelmed about Marco’s death. She needs some time alone, that’s all...

StarFan13:

Oh that’s too bad, I wanted to comfort her.

Jackie:

Don’t worry, I’ll tell Star that you sent her your best wishes, that sure will make her feel better.

StarFan13:

[hugging Jackie] Oh, thanks Jackie, you’re the best...

Jackie:

Don’t mention it, that’s what friends are for.

[StarFan13 gives 15 dollars and then leaves]

Janna:

I hope you’re right about Star.

Jackie:

I’m just trying to think positive.

Janna:

Yeah I know, but I can’t help but think that she’s the one who got most affected by Marco’s death. I don’t think she will get over it overnight.

Jackie:

I get the point, but you also got to understand that is Star that we’re talking about, you know how sensitive she tends to be when it comes to issues like this...

Janna:

I can only imagine what must be going through her head.

[Cut to Star lying on the couch watching pictures of Marco in her cell phone. A dimensional portal opens and Queen Moon shows up]

Queen Moon:

Hey Star, can I come in?

Star:

[watching her cell phone] Yeah sure, do what you want...

[Queen Moon sits on the couch]

Queen Moon:

I... brought you your magic wand… [shows the wand]

Star:

[still watching her phone] You can keep it if you want. At this point I don’t even care...

Queen Moon:

Oh Star, don’t be like that. This wand is yours.

Star:

I’m serious mom, ever since I got that thing I’ve been causing nothing but trouble.

Queen Moon:

Well, we all make mistakes once in awhile...

Star:

Mistakes? I literally drove my best friend to SUICIDE, don’t you understand? as a princess and ruler I’m a total disaster. I don’t want to risk anyone’s lives anymore...

Queen Moon:

Listen Star: Part of growing up is...

Star:

Oh, for the love of… [facepalm] why you always do this to me?!!! why can’t you understand that I DON’T want to be queen?!!! I never asked for any of this, so why you insist?

Queen Moon:

Because I want to help you.

Star:

Well, don’t do it. It’s not gonna work… [looks the other way]

[Queen Moon watches her daughter while trying to think of something to say]

Queen Moon:

Okay, so… I guess I’ll leave you alone then... [puts the wand over the couch] I’m gonna put this right here just in case you decide to change your mind.

Star:

[looking at the phone] Whatever...

Queen Moon:

By the way: The Diazes called me yesterday and told me that they agreed to make Marco’s wake ceremony here by thursday here at Mewni. I would be nice if you show up just to pay respect.

[Star tries to ignore her by using headphones]

Queen Moon:

Well, I already told you the news, so… I’ll see you then...

[Queen Moon uses the dimensional scissors to open a portal and leaves. Star gets so mad that she throws the phone away, then she takes the wand and uses it to destroy the room]

Star:

MEGA NARWHAL BLAST!!! [destroys a chair] WINTER STORM HYPER BLOW!!! [destroys a water cooler] STRAWBERRY ANNIHILATION!!! [destroys a desk] SUPERSONIC LEACH BOMB!!! [destroys a bunch of curtains] RAINBOW AVALANCHE!!! [destroys a bunch of posters] SUPER RAINBOW DOLPHIN SLAP!!! [destroys a bunch of random things on the floor] SHOOTING STAR EXPLOSION!!! [destroys a wall]

[Star ends up destroying everything in the room,so she decides to she lays on the floor and starts crying while holding the wand]

ACT II

[Cut to Ludo being escorted to the Butterfly castle by Mina’s troops. Meanwhile, all the people around just boo him off while throwing rotten fruit]

Villager #1:

YOU TRAITOR!!!

Villager #2:

OFF HIS HEAD!!!

Villager #3:

BURN HIM ALIVE!!!

Villager #4:

CRUSH HIS BONES!!!

[Ludo just keeps his head down to avoid all eye contact. The guards are having trouble keeping the crowd away, so they quickly enter the castle while everyone shouts at them]

Everyone:

SHAME!!! SHAME!!! SHAME!!! SHAME!!!

[Meanwhile, Queen Moon is at the balcony watching the crowd outside the castle along with the Magic High Commision]

Omnitraxus:

So… what do you think we should do now? I mean, we can’t just wait around with our arms crossed while half of the people keep demanding justice...

Queen Moon:

To tell you the truth Omnitraxus: I don’t know what to do in this situation… I just don’t know...

Rhombulus:

But you’re the Queen of Mewni, it is your responsibility...

Queen Moon:

LOOK: I KNOW WHO I AM WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO, SO GET OFF MY BACK!!!

[Queen Moons starts breathing heavily while Hekapoo and Omnitraxus try to calm her down]

Hekapoo:

[massaging her shoulders] Come on, take it easy, there’s no need to lose your composure...

Omnitraxus:

Yeah, we’re just talking.

Queen Moon:

[taking a deep breath] You’re right, I just… got carried away a little bit… I’m sorry for yelling at you Rhombulus, it wasn’t my intention.

Rhombulus:

You don’t have to apologize your majesty. I shouldn’t put so much pressure on you.

Queen Moon:

No Rhombulus, this emotional outburst was all my fault. Between this and the upcoming wake ceremony, I feel like my hands are tied. I can’t handle this decision all of my own.

Hekapoo:

Would you like me to call an emergency meeting?

Queen Moon:

Yeah, that’s a good idea. The meeting will be at 11pm at the Magic High Commission's HQ. We will discuss whether we should make a trial or just execute him. This time I want all the representatives to take part of this discussion.

Hekapoo:

Yes, your majesty.

[Cut to Sensei Brantley giving a speech to his new students (and Jeremy)]

Sensei Brantley:

[sobbing] My fellow students: I have two important things to announce today. First of all, due to personal circumstances regarding the... death of a very close friend of mine, the next class will be… excuse me… [takes a moment to blow his nose in a tissue]

Student #1:

Are you okay, sensei?

Sensei Brantley:

Yeah I’m fine, just… give me a second… [keeps blowing his nose] the next class will be suspended.

[Everyone react in shock except Jeremy who crosses his arms and look the other way]

Sensei Brantley:

However: Just because we won’t see each other next week, doesn’t mean you should neglect your lessons, so we’re gonna have a test for our next class.

[The students groan in response]

Student #2:

Aw man...

Student #3:

What a drag.

Student #4:

I’ve never had a test in my life.

Sensei Brantley:

Now, I know this sounds very unprecedented considering that we only had 3 classes so far, but that’s part of the challenge. You need to demonstrate you’re willing to give your one hundred percent on this class… that is… if you want to be part of… [starts sobbing again] the wall of fame...

[Sensei Brantley starts crying in front of the students]

Sensei Brantley:

OH GOD, WHY?!! This is the worst day of my life...

[Some of the students try to comfort him]

Jeremy:

[crossing his arms] Pfft, big deal. Marco was a complete jerk his entire life and now because he’s dead all of a sudden everyone starts praising him like some sort of god. What a joke...

[The other students stare at him with disgust]

Jeremy:

What? I’m just pointing out the facts.

Student #2:

You’re a jerk.

[Sensei and the other students walk away and leave Jeremy alone]

Jeremy:

Oh yeah? well… you’re a bunch of wussies!!! [stands up and leaves] God, I hate this town...

[Cut to the Magic High Commision discussing Ludo’s fate at the meeting room along with several representatives from different kingdoms. Everyone is chattering while waiting for Queen Moon]

King Pony Head:

So, if you take the HUGE amount of laws that he broke, he’s basically gone at this point… and the worst part is that it’s not even the real trial, is like a trial to determine if we approve a trial.

King Minotaur:

I know right? and to think we keep spending all our taxpayer money on this pointless nonsense. Oh man, the Butterfly Family need to get their shit together.

Pixie Empress:

I’ve heard that if he’s found guilty, they’re gonna hang him in front of the entire kingdom.

Queen Lizard:

Really? I thought they were planning to burn him alive...

King Minotaur:

Actually, that type punishment was abolished a long time ago for being: “unethical”

King Spiderbite:

Oh yeah? and since when the Butterfly family cares about that? I mean, remember Queen Eclipsa?

Queen Lizard:

Wow, talking about the dark ages of Mewni.

Pixie Empress:

Well, it’s not like their predecessors did a great job either.

King Pony Head:

Amen to that sister...

[In that moment, Queen Moon enters the room and sits on her chair]

Queen Moon:

[using a gavel] Order, order everyone. This meeting is now session, so please be quiet.

[Everyone stops talking and pay attention to Queen Moon]

Queen Moon:

Okay... [reads a checklist] the first item we have to discuss is… oh yeah, the fate of the former prince Ludo Avarius regarding his... collaboration with the Brotherhood.

King Lucitor:

Let’s hang the son of a bitch!!!

Everyone:

YEAH!!! [everyone starts talking]

Queen Moon:

[using the gaver] Order, order please. This is not a laughing matter, in order to complete this whole process we have to check the facts first. I know it’s tedious, I know everyone here think this is the most boring thing ever, but nonetheless we have to do it. So let’s make this quick shall we?

[Everyone agrees and proceed to sit down]

Queen Moon:

Good, now: The floor recognizes the commander of royal army and former prosecutor Mina Loveberry. go ahead Mina.

Mina:

Thanks your majesty. Now, as we pointed out in our report, prince Ludo Avarius was caught and put in custody over the charges of: [reads a list] theft, kidnapping, extortion, invasion of private property, treason and collaboration with several terrorist groups including the brotherhood...

[Everyone reacts in shock]

Mina:

Now, according to mewman law in Article 24, section 13, and I quote: [reads the quote] “any type of collaboration whether direct or indirect with any terrorist organization is punished by death penalty… ONLY if there’s proof that the defendant is either a double agent, OR a whistleblower”

[Everyone starts talking again]

Queen Moon:

[using the gavel] Order, order everyone...

Mina:

However, because we still don’t know the level of involvement of prince Avarius with the Brotherhood and the fact that he barely met the constitutional requirements to be held accountable, the most reasonable thing to do is to bring the case to the court for further research. That’s all I have to say.

[Everyone starts arguing with each other]

Queen Moon:

[using the gavel once again] Order, order… wait for your turn to speak.

King Pony Head:

Ehem… your majesty: Can I have a word please? I have something important to say.

Queen Moon:

Okay, the floor now recognizes King Pony Head.

King Pony Head:

Thanks your majesty: Now, I think I speak on behalf of everyone in this room when I say that this whole presumption of innocence has no place on this particular case, wait, just hear me out. Ehem, the first thing we should ask ourselves is: What do we know about Ludo Avarius? We know for a fact that he was the former heir of the Avarius family throne until he was disowned by his father due to several acts of corruption as well as irresponsible behaviour. Am I right?

[Everyone agrees with King Pony Head]

King Pony Head:

Now, how do I know this? well the answer is pretty obvious isn’t it? all of this is common knowledge at this point, so if we also take into consideration the destruction of the avarius castle and the decrease of their royal income that by 2015 hit their lowest point, I think it’s safe to assume that prince Avarius intentions were very clear, and therefore we demand to put the matter to the vote on whether execute him or sentence him to life imprisonment.

Hekapoo:

Objection: That proposal is completely unconstitutional.

Queen Moon:

Objection sustained, now go back to your seat mr. Pony Head.

King Pony Head:

Pfft… whatever… [sits down]

Queen Moon:

The floor now recognizes the headmaster of the Magic High Commision Omnitraxus Prime...

Omnitraxus:

Thanks your majesty: Now, I want you to pay attention to this. Rhombulus, bring me the charts please.

Rhombulus:

Yes sir.

[Rhombulus stands up and helps Omnitaraxus with his presentation]

Omnitraxus:

Okay, this chart right here represent the quantified amount of magic energy that was used between the years 2013 and 2018. As you can see, there’s nothing strange about it until you reach this point...

[Rhombulus uses a pointer to show a huge decline in the curve that reaches almost zero]

Omnitraxus:

This decline right here represents the amount of magic that was performed between the months of April through December of this year on a macroscale. By far is one of the biggest if not the biggest magic crisis we had since the great depression, however, if we take a look at the last few weeks, we can clearly see the curve slowly but surely rising up all over again.

King Rat:

Excuse me, but what this has to do with anything?

Omintraxus:

I’m getting there your honor, be patient. The reason I’m talking about this is because according to our investigation there’s a strong correlation between the crisis and the involvement of prince Avarius with the Brotherhood. The fact of the matter is that we don’t have enough information about the Brotherhood itself, BUT what we know is that the members of that cult were experts on the arts of dark magic and necromancy, to give you an example: They’re the ones behind the “All seeing eye” spell.

[Everyone starts talking about it]

Omnitraxus:

Now, considering the involvement of prince Avarius with this cult, we can assume that he knows something that we don’t, therefore if we vote to execute him we might lose the opportunity to learn about this cult and all its history, that’s why I’m asking you to consider a trial. That’s all I have to say for now, thank you for your attention.

Queen Moon:

The floor now recognizes...

King Pony Head:

[standing up] Oh come on your majesty, this is ridiculous.

Hekapoo:

Hey you, sit down and wait for your turn to speak.

King Pony Head:

But nobody cares about a stupid cult that disappeared a thousand years ago, for all we know that Toffee guy was probably the last member of that infamous group.

Hekapoo:

[standing up] That’s not the point, we can’t just execute Ludo without a trial, there are legal procedures we must follow in order to have justice.

King Pony Head:

Okay, so answer me this one question: What’s the point of doing all these stupid meetings if you’re not gonna take our opinions into consideration? You bureaucrats are such a bunch of...

Queen Moon:

[using the gavel] Order, order please!!! we’re trying to have a debate here, PLEASE wait for your turn to speak for crying out loud.

[Neither King Pony Head nor Hekpoo pay attention to her]

King Pony Head:

You know: It’s funny how you still try to defend Ludo considering that he was partially responsible for the death of that kid Marco. Now, isn’t it true that you were in a relationship with that guy? because from what I understand you should be in favor of the execution. Just sayin’.

[Hekapoo gets so furious that he grabs King Pony Head by the neck and pushing against the table. Everyone else react in shock]

Hekapoo:

Now listen to me you dickface: first of all, whatever I do in my personal life is none of your f***ing business, so stay out of it if you know what’s good for you. Second: the only reason I support a trial is because unlike you, I’m not a populist buffoon that thinks is above the law just, and let me tell you something: just because you wear a crown doesn’t make you an authority on these issues. DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR YOUR ROYAL HIGHNESS?!!!

King Pony Head:

[sweating] Uhm, yeah. I… get the point.

[uncomfortable silence]

Queen Moon:

Eeeeeh… okay, how about a 5-minute break?

Omnitraxus:

I second the motion.

Rhombulus:

I second it as well...

Queen Moon:

Then it’s settled. 5-minute break.

[everyone stand up and go to the coffee table except Hekapoo who leaves the room in a hurry]

Omnitraxus:

Is she gonna be okay?

Queen Moon:

I don’t know Omnitraxus, but one thing’s for sure: we have to give her some space After all, the loss of someone you love is one of the hardest things to get through.

Mina Loveberry:

How much time do you think she needs?

Queen Moon:

Only time will tell Mina. Only time will tell...

[Hekapoo goes to a private room to cry while looking a picture of Marco. Cut to Star sitting on a bench at Echo Creek’s pier watching the sunset. In that moment, Jackie arrives on her skateboard]

Jackie:

Hey Star, did you want to see me?

Star:

Yes Jackie, please take a seat.

[Jackie sits next to her]

Star:

Now, before you can say anything, I want to thank you for all the support you gave me these last few months. You’re a true friend and there aren’t enough words to express how thankful I am right now.

Jackie:

Star...

Star:

Wait, let me finish: The second thing I want to talk with you is about our current situation. You know, the whole pregnancy stuff. Because quite frankly, I don’t know how to handle it. I mean, I wanna have the baby but I don’t know how to tell my parents the truth. What should we do?

Jackie:

Well, to be honest: I don’t know what to do either. The fact of the matter is that I’m just as clueless as you because I’ve never faced a situation like this before.

Star:

And you know what’s the worst part? the fact that these babies will grow without knowing their father. God,I feel so bad for them.

Jackie:

But there’s plenty of people who grew up without a father and they turned out just fine.

Star:

Yeah, I know, but I can’t help but feel that something isn’t right about that.

Jackie:

That’s perfectly natural Star, you’re just worried about the future, but please trust me when I tell you that everything will be alright as long as we have each other’s backs.

Star:

That’s what I’m afraid of: I’ve backstabbed so many people in my life, I don’t even trust myself at this point. It’s like… because I was raised as a princess I’ve always had everything handed to me, so I grew up with this idea of being entitled to happiness. I’ve never considered how arrogant I became until now...

Jackie:

But that’s a good thing Star. It means that you’re growing up as a person and you’re finally learning from your mistakes, and that alone is a great accomplishment.

Star:

I know, it’s just that sometimes I wish to be as wise as you Jackie.

Jackie:

Me? wise? you’re just exaggerating. Sure I have an average intelligence that helps me to solve certain problems, but I’m not THAT clever, okay?

Star:

That’s where you’re wrong Jackie. You’re an amazing person and you deserved to be with Marco. I’ve should get in the way between you and him.

Jackie:

Nonsense, you know for a fact that Marco loved you more anyone else. Me on the other hand: I was just one in a million.

Star:

But you won Marco’s heart fair and square, where as I was just her best friend that wanted to be more than friends, and again: this was all about my sense of entitlement.

Jackie:

Well, that’s the thing about love. It’s the most powerful feeling in the entire world. People tend to do stupid things when they’re in love.

Star:

It’s still not an excuse for what I’ve done to you.

Jackie:

Hey, don’t forget that it was my fault too for suggesting this whole open relationship idea. I’ve should push you and Marco do try it in the first place, because now Marco’s gone and you and I are paying the price, but hey: what’s done it’s done.

Star:

I guess you’re right.

[Star and Jackie take a moment to watch the sunset]

Jackie:

Isn’t it beautiful?

Star:

What are you talking about?

Jackie:

The sunset, it’s just… nevermind, at this point I’m talking to myself.

Star:

No, no, I agree: It is a beautiful sunset. This is a nice place to watch it.

Jackie:

That’s my point: When it comes to see the sunset, the place where you decide to watch it is very important. At least that’s how I see it.

Star:

Well, it makes perfect sense if you think about it. There are places that are better than others.

Jackie:

Actually, I prefer to use the word “different”rather than “better”, like… the real beauty of things is in the eye of the beholder.

Star:

That’s true.

Jackie:

What about you Star? Do you have a favorite spot to watch the sunset?

Star:

Well, not really. I never thought about it before.

Jackie:

That’s fine. There’s no need to have a favorite...

Star:

However: from the top of the royal castle it looks incredible, you can even see the moment where that teeny tiny line of sunshine sink into the mountains.

Jackie:

That sounds awesome dude.

Star:

Indeed, you should definitely check it out.

Jackie:

Maybe we can watch it next week.

Star:

Why next week? what are you…? oh I get it.

[Star gets in fetal position and keeps watching the sunset in silence]

Jackie:

Star, I’m sorry. I didn’t know that you...

Star:

No, it’s fine. I just… I don’t if I’ll be able to be there.

Jackie:

What do you mean?

Star:

This mourning process is very personal to me and to tell you the truth: I’m scared.

Jackie:

I know how hard it is for you, but we’re talking about Marco’s wake ceremony. You have to be there, you were Marco’s most important person.

Star:

But what am I gonna say? what if screw it up like always?

[Jackie gives Star a pat on the back]

Jackie:

You don’t have to worry about that Star. Don’t you get it?, everyone’s on the same page as you Star.

Star:

Really?

Jackie:

Sure, in fact: It would be very important for Marco’s parents to see you there. Right now, they need emotional support to deal with their loss. So they’re counting on you.

Star:

Wow, I... didn’t even consider that...

Jackie:

But it’s not just Marco’s parents: every person who had a strong connection with Marco will be there, including me, Janna, Hekapoo… and we all need each other to overcome this situation and move on. If you hold those emotions and run away from your problems, you’ll never be able to get rid of them.

Star:

I know, but I still need to think about it.

Jackie:

No problem, just... give it some thought, okay?

Star:

Okay. I’ll do just that.

Jackie:

[standing up] Great, now if you excuse me: It’s getting late and I promised my mom that I would be early at home today so, I’ll see you at Marco’s wake.

Star:

Bye Jackie...

[Jackie gets on her skateboard and leaves]

Star:

[thinking to herself] So they’re counting on me, huh? I don’t even know if I can count on myself… whatever that means. Oh, Marco, how I wish you were here right now.

[She keeps watching the sunset in complete silence]

ACT III

[Cut to Marco’s wake ceremony. Everyone, including Marco’s parents, the students of Echo Creek, Principal Skeeves, Sensei Brantley, Princess Pony Head, Kelly and Tad are present. Cut to Alfonzo and Ferguson talking with Kelly and Tad]

Ferguson:

...and even though I spent the whole studying for that test, as soon as it began my mind was on blank, like… I couldn’t remember a single thing.

Tad:

That’s pretty heavy man.

Ferguson:

Indeed, but luckily for me Marco allowed me to copy from his test. We both ended up getting an A+.

Kelly:

Aw, that sounds so noble.

Alfonzo:

Yeah, but sadly they got caught and suspended one week later.

Kelly:

Oh… well, I guess intention is what counts.

Alfonzo:

...and that’s not even the half of it, he went as far as taking the blame for it.

Tad:

Wow, what a great friend. I’m really sorry about your loss. Our hearts are with you guys, right Kelly?

Kelly:

Yeah, I’m really gonna miss him. Even though we didn’t talk that much, he seemed like the kind of guy that always turn the other cheek to help his friends.

Alfonzo:

That’s basically Marco in a nutshell. So selfless...

Ferguson:

So generous...

Tad:

So cool...

Kelly:

So handsome...

[They stare at Kelly with a surprised expression]

Kelly:

What? Was it something I said?

[Cut to Jackie and Janna walking around while looking for Star]

Janna:

Wow, this place is so crowded. We’ll never gonna find her.

Jackie:

Just be patient Janna, I know she has to be somewhere.

Janna:

And how are you so sure about that?

Jackie:

I’m not, I’m just trying to be hopeful.

Janna:

Hold on...

[Janna sees Brittney among the crowd]

Janna:

Speaking of the devil

Jackie:

Oh come on Janna, can you just leave her alone?

Janna:

Not in this life Jackie...

[Meanwhile Brittney is talking to some random girls when Janna approaches her]

Brittney:

...and then I told her: You can’t wear those shoes along with that dress...

Janna:

Well, well, well look who decided to show up.

Brittney:

[sigh] Goddammit...

Janna:

You know: If I didn’t know you, I would think that you actually liked Marco.

Brittney:

Ugh, don’t be ridiculous Janna, the only reason I’m here is because everyone at school decided to show up and… I wanted to show them some support. That’s all.

Janna:

[sarcastic tone] Oh, what a charitable soul. You’re gonna make me cry. Boo-Hoo.

Brittney:

Look, why don’t you just go away and mind your own business? this is a wake after all.

Janna:

Eh, good point. See you at school. [walks away]

Brittney:

God, what a creep.

[Cut to Queen Moon and King River talking with Marco’s parents]

King River:

I hope you don’t mind that we invited some of the villagers to your son’s wake. The thing is: What your son did for our kingdom was very heroic and... most of them wanted to pay respect to him…

Mr. Diaz:

It’s okay,actually: we never thought that so many people admired our son THAT much.

Queen Moon:

And just to be perfectly clear: We did our best to keep this ceremony as private as possible, but because we’re members of the royal family well… sometimes privacy is not an option.

Mr. Diaz:

Again: It’s perfectly understandable, and to tell you the truth: My wife and I already assumed the risk before we decided to come here. Right honey?

Mrs. Diaz:

Yes, we both saw this coming, so there’s no need to apologize, in fact: a lot of the people we’ve been talking were very sweet and caring to us.

Queen Moon:

I’m so glad you feel that way.

Mrs. Diaz:

It’s never easy to lose someone you love, especially when... it’s your own flesh and blood, so… thank you so much... for this noble gesture.

[Mrs. Diaz tries not to cry in public, but the tears keep running down her face]

Queen Moon:

Don’t even mention it. We are more than happy to help you. Here, take this...

[Queen Moon gives her a handkerchief so she can clean her face]

Mrs. Diaz:

[blowing her nose] Thank you...

[Cut to Star lying on her bed watching old photos of Marco in her phone]

Star:

[thinking to herself] So they’re counting on me, huh? [sigh] I’m not in the mood for this...

[In that moment, Hekapoo knocks at Star’s door]

Hekapoo:

[o.s.] Excuse me princess, can I come in?

Star:

Yeah, whatever...

[Hekapoo enters the room and sees Star still lying on the bed]

Hekapoo:

I’m sorry to interrupt you, but a girl called StarFan13 is asking for you so I decided to check you out. Are you feeling okay?

Star:

Yeah, I’m fine. [yawns] Just... a little bit tired because I couldn’t sleep well last night...

Hekapoo:

Mmmm, I see… so you wanna be alone, aren’t you?

Star:

I just don’t feel prepared to face everyone down there, that’s all.

Hekapoo:

Okay, you don’t have to do it if you don’t want to, but… I think it would be a nice gesture if you show up for a moment to… you know, pay your respects and stuff.

Star:

That’s the tricky part for me: I don’t know what to do in these situations. I think you people will be better off without me.

Hekapoo:

But Star… I-I mean princess Butterfly, everyone wants to know where you are. That’s why I’m here.

Star:

Well you can do me a favor and send the royal message that I’m not available right now. Don’t ask why, it’s complicated.

Hekapoo:

Sure, I’m not not gonna interrupt you in your mourning process, but... before I go, let me tell you one last thing: You may think that you’re having a hard time, that by becoming a single mother your future will be uncertain and all your childhood fantasies will crash and burn to be replaced with the bitterness of adulthood, and sure at first you’ll resent everyone telling you to suck it up and grow a pair, but deep inside you’ll know they’re telling the truth and you have to adapt no matter what… so when all’s said and done ask yourself the question: Am I really the master of my own fate? Or am I just another sad, pathetic soul slowly decaying in a stream of self-pity driven my own selfishness? life’s too short and there’s only a handful of choices you can make, choose wisely.

[Hekapoo walks away and closes the door. Cut back to Jackie and Janna talking with Kelly and Pony Head at the dinner table]

Pony Head:

I just don’t know what to do with her anymore, it’s like… we’ve been besties since I have memory, and yet I can’t figure out what’s happening inside her head. It’s driving me CRAAAAZY...

Janna:

Look, I just wanna know if you have seen Star and the only thing you’ve done is talking about yourself. Just get to the point and tell us if you know where she is...

Pony Head:

Well, I don’t know. Are you happy now?

Janna:

[sigh] Nevermind. What about you Kelly?

Kelly:

I’m not sure. Last time we spoke, she said something about: “searching for her true self” or something like that...

Jackie:

Well Janna, at least we tried.

[Hekapoo shows up]

Hekapoo:

Hey girls...

Everyone:

Hi Hekapoo.

Jackie:

Where have you been?

Hekapoo:

Oh, I was just talking to princess Butterfly just a moment ago.

Janna:

Wait, you know where Star is?

Hekapoo:

Yeah, but she’s not in her best mood, so I would suggest you to leave her alone, so she can...

StarFan13:

Look everyone: It’s Star!!!

[Cut to Star going downstairs]

Star:

Hey everyone...

[All the people gather around to talk to her]

Andrea:

Hey Star, how you’ve been?

Justin:

I’ve heard you are depressed for what happened. Is that true?

Chelsea:

You want me to bake you a pie?

Francis:

Is that a victorian dress?

Star:

People, people, people. I’m fine, okay? I appreciate your concerns, but for once I don’t wanna be the center of attention. This wake ceremony is about Marco, so stay focused will ya?

StarFan13:

Okay, but... can I get you a soda?

Star:

Eh, sure. Why not?

StarFan13:

Alright!!! just wait right here. I’ll be back in a minute.

[StarFan13 runs immediately to get a soda.In that moment, Jackie, Janna and Hekapoo show up along with Kelly and Pony Head]

Hekapoo:

So in the end you decided to show up.

Star:

Yeah, I just realized that if I’m gonna be mourning Marco, I’d rather be surrounded by other people than lock myself up in my room. Let’s just that loneliness is not for me.

Jackie:

That’s exactly what I was talking about. I’m so proud of you.

[Suddenly, Star notices someone among the crowd]

Star:

Wait a second: Is that Tom?!!!

[The camera cuts to Tom talking to some random people]

Janna:

Eh, I think you’re just imagining things. Come on, let’s go to talk someone… this way... [points at the other direction]

Star:

Oh my God, it is Tom.

Janna:

Aw, goddammit.

Jackie:

Okay Star, there’s no need to freak out about this...

Star:

What?!!! Are you kidding me?!!! he tried to assault Marco!!! What is wrong with you people?!!!

Hekapoo:

[whispering] Shhh, could you keep it down? this is a very delicate moment.

Star:

No, not this time Hekapoo. I’m sorry, but somebody has to say it… [walks away]

Janna:

No Star, wait!!!

[Cut back to Tom having a conversation with some random villagers when all of a sudden Star shows up to face him]

Star:

[grabbing Tom’s shoulder] WHAT… THE F***... ARE YOU DOING HERE?!!!

Tom:

[getting nervous] Eh Star, have you… met my new friends? they’re a couple of farmers that...

Star:

Cut it out Tom, that’s not gonna work this time.

Tom:

Look Star, I don’t want any trouble with anyone, I’m just here to pay my respects, okay?

Star:

You’re unbelievable, I mean HOW DARE YOU to show your face here?!!! After all the things you’ve done. You make me wanna puke.

Janna:

[showing up] There you are Star, Marco’s parents are looking for you to...

Star:

Let me ask you something: have you ever felt ashamed in your life? Or do you even have a sense of morality? you sick bastard.

[In that moment, Queen Moon shows up along with Marco’s parents]

Queen Moon:

What’s going on here?

Tom:

Oh, and what makes you you high and mighty? you always manipulate other people to get your way and one calls you out.

Star:

Well, at least I’m not a sex offender, that’s for sure.

[Suddenly everyone around is looking at them. Tom gets even more nervous]

Janna:

[facepalm] Star, you’re such an idiot.

Queen Moon:

Star, what are you talking about?

Star:

Oh, you’re not so tough now are you?

Tom:

Star, don’t you even...

Star:

Shut up!!! now, I’m going to count to ten, and if you don’t turn around and get your ass out of here by the time I’m done. I’m gonna tell everyone what you did.

Tom:

You wouldn’t dare.

Star:

One, two, three, four...

Tom:

Can’t we talk like adults for a minute...?!!!

Star:

FIVE, SIX, SEVEN, EIGHT!!!

Tom:

Alright, alright… I’m leaving now.

[Tom simply turns back and walks away without saying a word]

Queen Moon:

[to Star] You have a lot to explain young lady.

Star:

SHUT UP MOM!!! YOU DON’T KNOW ANYTHING!!! NOBODY KNOWS ANYTHING!!! I’M JUST...

[Star leaves the room in a huff]

StarFan13:

Hey Star, I brought your soda… oh...

Jackie:

Oh, boy...

[Cut to Star crying inside Queen Moon’s office. Jackie, Janna, Hekapoo, Kelly and StarFan13 try to persuade her to come out]

Jackie:

Star...

Star:

GO AWAY!!! I wanna be alone...

Janna:

Listen Star, you can’t run away from your problems. Sooner or later you’re gonna have to face them...

Hekapoo:

That’s exactly what I told her.

Star:

But I just can’t help myself. I’m too prone to have emotional outbursts.

Jackie:

Yeah, we know. But have to learn to control yourself. What would Marco think if he saw you acting like a brat? Have you ever stopped to consider that?

Star:

But Marco is no longer with us. What’s the point?

Jackie:

That doesn’t mean you should just give up.

Janna:

Yeah, you have your whole life ahead. Don’t throw it all away.

Star:

Well, what if I wanna throw it all away. Let’s face it, I may be a princess, but I’m no ruler material. And now everybody hates me for being so annoying and selfish.

Kelly:

Nobody hates you Star.

StarFan13:

I actually love you.

Hekapoo:

You see? everybody here wants to help you, so stop playing the victim..

Star:

I’m not playing the victim,

Hekapoo:

Yes you are.

Jackie:

Uhm, Hekapoo: Don’t you think you’re being just a little bit rude?

Hekapoo:

No Jackie, I’m tired of playing these stupid games, don’t you get it? the only reason princess Butterfly keeps acting like a child is because we’re allowing it.

Janna:

That makes a lot of sense...

Hekapoo:

Now listen to me princess: If you’re gonna keep ignoring us, fine… more power to you, but then don’t complain when everybody stops paying you attention.

[Star gets in fetal position]

Hekapoo:

However: If you change your mind and realize that the world does not revolve around you, you can join us at the funeral readings at the castle’s garden. Come on girls, let’s get out of here.

Janna:

Okay, let’s go.

Kelly:

See you later Star.

StarFan13:

But I wanna stay...

Hekapoo:

No, you don’t… [grabs her hand]

[The girls walk away to attend the funeral readings, except for Jackie who takes a moment to look at Star until before leaving. Cut to funeral readings at the royal garden. Sensei Brantley steps up to the podium to give his speech]

Sensei Brantley:

[tapping the microphone] Is this thing on? okay… Although I’m not a man of many words and I let my actions speak for themselves, I need to get this feeling off my chest, so I’m gonna keep it nice and short: Marco Diaz, out of all the students that came and went to my dojo, you were not only the most persistent and hard-working, but also you were the strongest… and keep in mind that I’m not talking about physical strength, but something more transcendental that is the power of the mind over matter, and even though you’re no longer among us, your bravery and will to fight for your ideals is something that I’ll always treasure inside my heart. Thank you.

[Sensei Brantley leaves the podium while everyone claps at him]

Queen Moon:

Okay, the next one on the list is Mrs. Angie Diaz, Marco’s mother.

[Mrs. Diaz steps up to the podium]

Mrs. Diaz:

I wanna read a poem that I wrote for my son… ehem… [reads a paper] The first time I carried you and looked into your eyes/You smiled at me like an angel flying through the skies/And so day after day and night after night/I kept you in my arms and held you tight/As aware I was for that dreaded day/ When time strikes you down and take you away/Will you remember the moments we shared?/When I slept next to you because you were scared/So if these words can reach you, wherever you are/Remember that you’ll always have a place... in my heart. Thank you.

[Mrs. Diaz leaves the podium while blowing her nose]

Queen Moon:

Thank you so much for your words Mrs. Diaz. It means a lot to us. The next one on the list is...

Star:

Uhm, excuse me...

Queen Moon:

Star? What you doing here? I thought you wanted to be alone.

Star:

I... changed my mind. Can I... use the podium to speak my mind? Please?

Queen Moon:

Uhm, sure… I mean, it’s not on the list, but I guess I can make an exception this one time.

Star:

Thanks mom, I’ll make it quick, I promise.

[Star steps up to the podium]

Star:

Ehem… I… just a second... [scratches her head] the thing is: I didn’t prepare anything, so you’ll have to forgive me if I start to talk gibberish at some parts, and with that said I’ll start with my improvised speech… Well Marco was… a very special individual, I know that many of you already know that, but what many people tend to forget (myself included) is that no matter how special or unique you may think you are, there is always somebody better, and Marco well aware of that fact. That brings me to my main point: Humility. You see: no one is an island, and friends and family are your most valuable resources when you’re down and out, in fact I can recall so many occasions where I helped Marco to overcome his own problems, and I’m more than willing to bet that most you had the same experience. So I guess the lesson we can learn from this tragic loss is that although must be strong and resilient, there’s nothing wrong in asking for help… because in the end, that is our true strength. Thank you.

[Everyone gives Star a round of applause. Star takes a moment to contemplate the red moon]

Star:

[thinking to herself] Oh Marco, I just hope you’re happy wherever you are right now...

EPILOGUE

[An alarm clock sounds and Marco wakes up inside a somewhat futuristic bedroom]

Marco:

[yawning] What happened? Was it just a dream or…? [looks at the time] Oh shit, I gotta go to work...

[He gets out of bed, puts on an orange jumpsuit and leaves the room in a hurry. Cut to Captain Murphy at the main bridge of Sealab running around in circles]

Captain Murphy:

Bored, bored, bored, bored, bored, bored, bored, bored, bored, bored, bored...

Marco:

[opening the door] Hello Captain.

Captain Murphy:

Marco! hey buddy, you wanna… I don’t know, hang out or play a game?

Marco:

I’m a little busy here sir. Trying to keep a trillion-dollar research station running smoothly.

Captain Murphy:

Ooh, fun. I’ll be the mommy.

MARCO VS. THE FORCES OF LOVE - EPISODE 15: LONG SLOW GOODBYE

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yourelysianbeauty · 4 years ago

Text

One-Act play- Worry Tomorrow

SCENE 3

The weather is warm and with cold breeze as Vincent sits in a wood and places his feet on the water of the creek and thinks deeply of the reality he is facing. Angela sees Vincent far away.

Angel

(Inhales deeply) Let me teach you some lesson Phoebe, sorry not sorry. (Runs towards Vincent and sits with him) Hey there, why are you here and where is Phoebe?

Vincent

(Looks shocked) How did you know I am here? I don’t know, I just want to relax myself and think about of what might happen next.

Angel

(Smirks)Are you scared of losing her?

Vincent

(Looks down) Of course, who wouldn’t? have you ever experienced loving someone so much and suddenly an unexpected twist happens? (Angel pats Vincent as he continues to open up)

Vincent

(Starts to cry) I don’t know what to do if I saw the person, I love the most is marrying a person who is just financially better than me, what if Matthew hurts Phoebe? what if-

Angel

(Shushes Vincent) Don’t overthink sweetie, if you do love Phoebe why won’t you let her go? If you do adore her, you should understand her situation and don’t make your life more miserable. (Gently touches Vincent’s face) If she loves you as well, she’ll remain coming back to you even she’s married. Phoebe will visit and would date you since it’s just a marriage, she doesn’t love Matthew at all right?

Vincent

(Looks at Angel) What if Matthew became manipulative or abusive towards Phoebe?

Angel

It’s her lost, she could contact her dad about it duh. (Rolls eyes) If she did not, probably Phoebe is starting to build a fond to Matthew and as a result, probably her love is not as deep like yours. You will end up hurting yourself more.

Vincent

(Angel wipes his tears and starts to realize things) How could you say that? have you ever experienced those kinds of events? but I think you’re making a point.

Ange

(Smiles and pinches Vincent’s cheeks) Hello? there are a lot of people who also experience of what you are facing right now. (laughs) Wait, how long do you know each other and how long did you start liking her?

Vincent

(Sniffs) You’re right. We met each other since high school but different schools. As I see her running towards me soaked in water, I ran back to shed her with my umbrella. Seeing her all wet and cold, I gave her my extra shirt and jogging pants so that she won’t get sick. The second time I met her, I keep making excuses and reasons to see her once in a while, and that’s pretty much how we liked each other.

Angel

(Fake smiles look) Oh, how sweet, but you know there’s always a plot twist in our lives. Probably your relationship with Phoebe is just an epoch or stage for you to be stronger and be a better version of yourself, right? Avoiding her and letting her go is the best thing to do now.

Phoebe

(Sits beside Matthew) Have you seen Vincent? or Angel?

Matthew

(Looks above and leans on the wall) I don’t know either, I did not sleep because I waited for Vincent but I didn’t know Angel is not around as well.

Phoebe

(Starts to panic) What? should we look for them? this area is pretty broad, what if they got lost?

Matthew

(Stands up and looks at Phoebe) Don’t panic, let’s search for them but we must split up. (Phoebe nods and started to run in an opposite direction)

Matthew

(Matthew screams to Angel and wakes her up) Angel, what are you doing here? Are you with Vincent?

Angel

(Sits and starts to cry) I’m lost, I thought no one would find me, I tried looking for the creek, unfortunately I got lost.

Matthew

(Starts to worry) I’m here, I brought water and a snack, go ahead eat it.

Angel

(Wipes her tears and grabs the food and water) Thank you, why did you look for me and Vincent? Is he lost as well?

Matthew

(Nods) Yeah, I actually waited for him outside the house because I want to talk to him about Phoebe but he never came. I didn’t know you are lost, I thought you were just inside your room, sorry.

Angel

(Drinks water) No, it’s okay but why do you want to talk to Matthew, you look so down.

Matthew

(Sits beside Angela and exhales) I really want to talk to Vincent yesterday because I want to respect their relationship but I like Phoebe as well, I will promise not to hurt Phoebe and sustain the love and actions of what Vincent do to Phoebe to make her happy.

Angel

(Frowns) What? No, you shouldn’t do that! Don’t copy what Vincent does to make Phoebe happy, do something that will make Phoebe appreciates you. As you said, you like her so act like you and Phoebe are meant to be not making Phoebe hurt because he’ll remember Vincent then duh.

Angel

(Matthew nods and listens) Honestly saying, I think you should stop liking Phoebe because she’s my friend, I consider her as my sister and I know that she’s really in-love with Vincent, I don’t want to hurt your feelings but she might approve with the marriage yet she’ll hate you more, I bet.

Matthew

(Gets sad) Really? It was actually Phoebe’s father who started this marriage thing, I only agreed because it’s Phoebe whom I’m going to marry. I really thought that her father did that because they broke up.

Angel

(Smirks and pats Matthew) It’s ok, you’re not close with Phoebe or Vincent after all. I’m not gonna lie, I like you but I’m not saying these things because I like you but I want to help you, Phoebe and Vincent with these complications in your lives. I know I’m not part of your problems but I’m here for all of you since I expect that you three will make this problem more tangled.

Matthew

(Starts to accept his “fake” reality) Wow, you’re indeed a good friend to Phoebe. I didn’t know you like me, since when? I just know you but I didn’t know that you like me.

Angel

(Smiles) You always visit the cafe and you often talk to me right, I though you have interest in me but knowing that you like Phoebe actually broke my heart because I thought you come to the cafe because you like me yet you just want to see Phoebe.

Matthew

(Holds Angela’s hands) Yeah but now, I am happy that you appreciate me for who I am. I think I should move on and try to accept the fact that me and Phoebe won’t happen at all.

Angel

(Smirks and tries to flirt) I should’ve confessed earlier, probably this marriage problem won’t exists right and probably you’re mine already.

Matthew

(Smiles shyly) Oh really? why didn’t you told me; we’ve been talking in the cafe but I never thought of you liking me. I swear.

Angel

(makes a sad face) It’s because you like Phoebe, now that you’re trying to move on, why won’t you use me so that you could forget about Phoebe and fall in love with me? (Laughs together)

#CreativeWriting #OneActPlay

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sabansbabes · 7 years ago

Text

Power Rangers + Summer Camp AU

~The rangers are hanging out at Billy's house when he gets the call about Mission Creek. He signed up to be a counselor there the summer before his Junior year. Of course he wasn't allowed to be one at the time but Mr. Martin, the head of the camp, let senior campers sign up before they left and once their old enough he calls them up and ask if they still want the gig. Most kids say no, but Billy jumped at the chance. He'd had some of the best times of his life there and he wanted to relive those memories for as long as possible.

~ The rest of the rangers have no freaking idea what he's talking about when he starts babbling about how excited he is once he comes back from the call. He's mentioned it to them before, but that was during battle and they weren't very focused on what Billy was saying.

~"I'm finally going to be camp counselor. I've missed Mission Creek so much. I can't believe I'm going to be gone for the whole summer-"

~That's when the protests begin, the louder ones mainly coming from Jason.

~"You can't leave! I nee-I mean the team needs you for battles and stuff."

~Billy watches in confusion as Jason's face turns red at the statement while the rest of the rangers just smirk knowingly.

~"I won't be far, the camp is in the mountains and Kim's house is about thirty two miles from the grounds. I'll be there when there's an impending threat. Don't worry Jason, I still be able to defend world."

~"But still what if it comes at night and you're sleeping and-"

~"You think I'd sleep through a monster attack?"

~"Maybe and who knows how long it'll take you to reach us from cam-"

~"Two minutes and fourteen seconds. I did the run a few days ago."

~"Oh." Followed by complete amusing silence as Jason tries to come up with more excuses as to why Billy shouldn't go.

~"I'm sure Billy will be just fine Jason." Kim tries to reason with Jason but he's not having it.

~"You don't know that. You don't know that." He mutters and it's then that Billy and the others see just how worried Jason really is.

~"I can ask if you guys can come with me. We're usually short a few counselors, I'm sure Mr. Martin will appreciate it."

~Everyone agrees and Jason can breathe easy again.

~ They leave a week after school ends, which happened to be a week before camp starts and the majority of the gang is ecstatic. Except for Tommie and Zack.

~Tommie hates kids, they've never liked them and they're dreading this trip altogether. And Zack doesn't like the idea of leaving his mother alone for so long, sure she's gotten better, thanks to the rangers and their families pitching in for her medical expenses, but she's not at perfect health yet and he's not sure he wants to take that risk.

~Ms. Taylor has to literally shove him out of the house for him to go.

~They take Billy's van, after the crash his mom's van was replaced. After she got a significant raise at work, she gave it to her son and brought herself a Toyota Camry.

~Trini, Zack and Tommie won't stop calling it the mystery machine.

~ Jason gets the Aux Cord taken away from him after he put on Nickelback.

~"It soothes me."

~"You're a disgrace y'know that." (Trini's Remark)

~They listen to Kim's playlist and when Mayores comes on she brings up the fact that Becky G. looks exactly like Trini.

~The rest of the rangers, including her girlfriend, just don't see it.

~The drive isn't long and when they get there Mr. Martin runs through everything they need to know within the hour. They have the camp to themselves for a whole week.

~The first thing they do, after Jason makes sure everyone is packed, is hit the lake. It's fun, until Zack loses his trunks in the water.

~"It's not my fault, the current's strong in here!"

~"There's is no current dip thong." (Tommie's Remark)

~They spend the majority of the week hanging out together, when they're all not in a group they split off into two. Kim and Trini disappear to do god knows what. At least that's what Zack says but they mainly just hang out in the kitchen eating all the cheese balls, talking and joking around with the occasional make out session taking place. Zack and Tommie usually go do some dumb shit, like hike up the mountain and see if they can jump off into the lake without breaking anything. And Billy and Jason hang out in the media room, playing ping pong and pool.

~Billy loves kids but its easy for him to get uncomfortable around them. Kids are touchy feely, Billy's not. By the second day, Jason and the others make sure the kids know to ask Camp Counselor Billy to touch him before doing so.

~Tommie spends a lot of their time explaining what it means to be non-binary person. Some of the kids are little shits about it, but the majority are pretty accepting.

~Zack has these two little girls who follow him everywhere. Bria and Mimi. At first they thought he was cute but once Bria caught him staring at Tommie she realized that he likes them. After that they mainly stick around to give him advice. Sure there like eight years old but Zack takes a lot of what they say to heart. They even set up a tea party date for Zack and Tommie. They made sure to paint Zack's fingernails and to put his hair into little ponytails so that he can look 'pretty for Tommie'.

~Billy and the others get to name their designated cabins, they chose the dinosaurs of their zords.

~After a particularly bad nightmare, Billy sneaks into Jason cabin. He can't sleep and Jason always puts him at ease. Shelby, another counselor, is in his cabin too and he makes sure to let her know where he's going before he leaves.

~A weird conversation takes place with Mikey, a seven year old, in the morning when he wakes the two up.

~Jason struggles to explain what it means to be gay until Trini walks by and sighs. "Hey Mikey, boy can like boys and girls can like girls. Love isn't always shared between a man and a woman." She holds Kim's hand in her own for emphasis.

~"Otay"

~And that was that.

~Tommie discovers a secret love they have for kids when they, Bria, Mimi and Zack are hanging out by the fire. "Kids don't suck, they're alright I guess." She tells Zack as she watched the two run off for smores. Zack nods in agreement, turning away from the little girls to meet Tommie's eyes.

~ Their gaze intensifies before they close the gap between them and BAM!!! Fireworks!

~"I told you they were gonna kiss, I told ya." (Bria)

~They pull away laughing and the rest of the gang cheers. It took forever but they finally got together.

~ Kim and Trini escape to the mountain the day before the last day of camp. They're joking around., laughing, kissing and then Trini just kind of blurts it out without realizing.

~"I love you"

~Kim takes a moment to take in what she had just heard before smiling and pulling the shorter girl into another kiss.

~"I love you too."

~They spend the rest of the night up there, wrapped up in a pillow and blanket. Kissing, watching the stars and just reveling in the feeling of being together.

~"What are we Jason?"

~ It was an unexpected question, a question that Jason didn't really know how to answer. They had been closer, closer than friends but not yet together. It was a weird predicament that Jason was unaware of how he got into or how to get out of it. He wanted to take the leap but he didn't really know how to.

~"I don't know."

~He didn't meet Billy eyes, just stay focused on picking up trash and cleaning up around the camp fire. Everyone else was gone, back to the cabin and now they were the only two left.

~"I like you Jason. More than a friend should like their other friend."

~"I like you to Billy but-"

~Just as he looked up to face the brown boy who was incredibly close to him now.

~"I'm going to kiss you now, is that okay?" Jason didn't know what to say, so he nodded. Overwhelmed by how forward Billy was being.

~Billy's hands came in contact with Jason's cheeks and his lips crash against his. For a second Jason froze, he didn't know how to react. It felt good, it felt better than good. He moved in sync with Billy, melting into the kiss.

~He forced himself not to whine when the brown boy pulled away.

~"We should date. Do you want to date me Jason?" He nods, still recovering from the kiss.

~"Can we uhh, can we do that again Billy?"

~When camp is over, the rangers are reluctant to leave. College starts in the fall and although their all attending Angel Grove community college, they know their summers will be to filled with jobs and internships to even think about doing this again.

~Tommie and Zack share a teary goodbye with Bria and Mimi as they leave. Zack's is the main one shedding tears.

~The next day, Billy says goodbye to Shelby and thanks her for filling in for him for all those nights he spent in the T-Rex cabin. She says it was no problem before hugging him and Jason goodbye. Her fiancé Tyler is waiting for her in the car.

~The car ride back was bitter sweet.

~"At least we'll always have the memories." (Jason's comment)

~They nod in agreement as they leave the grounds.

~"Hey can I see the aux cord?"

~"NOO!"

The End.

Sorry this is so long, I got carried away.

Summer's is almost over and I was just wondering why no one had done this yet, lol. And also if you caught that Dino Charge reference I love you. I really hope this doesn't suck, please enjoy.

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jake-runs-alot-blog · 5 years ago

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Pike’s Peak Marathon

O beautiful for spacious skies,

For amber waves of grain, For purple mountain majesties Above the fruited plain! America! America! God shed his grace on thee And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea!

Katharine Lee Bates, author of America the Beautiful, wrote these words after sitting atop a large piece of rock 14,115 in the air. In my 7 years of running I’ve experienced all sorts of tough and unique courses. But nothing compared to the journey of trying to reach the top of Pike’s Peak, and then coming back down all in one sitting!

Training for this race was almost impossible. The first was the altitude. Oklahoma City sits at around 1200 feet. Manitou Springs, where the start is, is at around 6,300 feet. And then we’re running up another 8,000 feet. Big difference there. After researching some tips, the best I was able to do was train in hot/humid temperatures, easy to do here, and try using an elevation mask. The next problem was steepness for the incline. The average degree of incline for the race is around 11 degrees, maxing out at around 13.4 degrees. Oklahoma, being quite the “hilly” place that it is, made that hard to train for too. Spent some time at Mount Scott but I knew nothing would compare. So, going into this race the plan was simple, finish.

We arrived in Colorado Springs a few days early to try to get acclimated to the elevation as much as possible. The night before I put together my camel pack with a mixture of Tailwind and Nuun, loaded up extra warm clothes because of the unsureness of the weather towards the top, and headed to bed.

The morning was beautiful. Low 60s, slight breeze, and few clouds in the sky. I was in the first wave of runners to be sent off at 7:00. After Bates’ America the Beautiful was played over the sound system, they fired the gun and we were off. The first 1.6 miles was ran through town and even asphalt, but still at a descent incline. The plan was to go easy, not wear out too quick trying to get to the trail quickly. I could already feel the steepness in the first mile clocking in around 9:30 pace. But felt good.

Hoping onto the off-road trail we had already gained 600 feet of elevation. The paced slowed as the trail steepness increased. The course was most dirt and gravel with random rocks and boulders popping out of the ground here and there. Running on the Spur Trail, we eventually merged onto Barr Trail, the main trail that leads all the way to the top. We continued our climb passing the famous “Incline” reaching the No Name Creek checkpoint in just over an hour. 4.3 miles in we were up to 8,800 feet.

From there the course somewhat evened out. There were even a few brief moments of downhill running. But even then, we were still gain altitude. I hit the next check point at Barr Camp, 10,200 feet, at mile 7.6 in a little under 2 hours. Here was the staging point had Pike’s Peak’s official search and rescue team, which was serving as the medical team for this race. They even had their official search and rescue helicopter there ready to go. Don’t see that like ever!

Leaving the camp, I was averaging about a 15 minute per mile pace. Doing some quick math in my head I figured I would make it to the summit in about 3.5 hours if everything kept rolling as it had been. I had my phone on me so I would update Rachel, who was waiting for me at the summit, every now and then where I was at. But the mountain had only been teasing us so far. Quickly after leaving Barr Camp the steepness got so extreme and the course so rocky, I was unable to run or jog again for the next 6 miles until the top. The paced slowed and the legs started to get very heavy. I could slowly start seeing the tree line so I told myself just to get there and reevaluate from there. It took me another hour to go the 2.6 miles to reach the A-Frame checkpoint at tree line (11,950 feet). Before I even reached it the first-place runner passed us heading back down the mountain. He was moving like a gazelle floating down the trail hoping over rocks with ease. He would go onto to win the race missing breaking the course record by only ten minutes,

The lungs and legs were burning but kept power walking along. A few times I just had to sit down and catch the breath, but the view kept getting better and better. Above tree line I would look up and see all the switchbacks and all the people zig zagging back and forth slowly reaching the top. It seemed like it was never ending. I hit the last checkpoint at Cirque at mile 11.9 reaching 13,300 feet. The last mile I started to worry about my legs as they were starting to get very unstable. Each step felt like running a mile. As other runners were coming down, we had to step aside to give them the right away. That become even more difficult when we hit the 16 Golden Stairs, 32 switchbacks with some steps being 15 inches tall. We would have to be extra care with runners coming down because some of the drop offs were about 20-30 feet. A little uneasy but just added to the experience.

4:33:53, I reached the summit. Short on breath and rubber legs, I met up with Rachel. She helped me refill my camel pack, got me some nutrition and kept encouraging me that the hard part was over. What a trooper! So, I started to head back down.

I couple of miles down I started to get some momentum. The race started to feel more like a trail run. Above me I could hear the rescue helicopter flying overhead. I later learned that a runner was having a medical issue and had to be air lifted to safety.

I made it passed the A-Frame checkpoint again then it went downhill from there. I just passed mile 17 going through a very rocky section and while jumping over one of the rocks I clipped a rock with my foot, stumbling to the ground. Instant throbbing pain shot up me from my big toe all throughout my foot. Out of frustrating a threw my sunglasses to ground breaking off one of the lenses into the forest. Now I have tripped and stumbled while trail running before, but the pain this time was unbearable. I sat down for probably a good ten or fifteen minutes hoping the pain will subside. All the while other runners were passing me asking if I was okay knowing there wasn’t anything they could do. After awhile I tried to start moving again. Still very painful but I was able to at least keep moving slowly.

A mile later the pain was still terrible. I couldn’t tell if it was broken or just stubbed really bad. At first I was just walking with a bad limp. But I just wanted to get off this mountain as quick as possible. So, I managed to pretty much relearn how to run while trying to keep my weight off my left foot. Not easy at all. I kept texting Rachel updating here on everything. I felt so bad that I was taking so much longer than expected and that she was just waiting at the finish line for me. But she kept encouraging me reassuring me that it would be worth it.

I just kept moving. Made it passed Barr Camp, saw the helicopter had returned from its trip from earlier. I refilled the camel pack again knowing the temperature was rising, getting up to 96 degrees in Manitou. I was passing mile after mile, getting lower and lower in elevation just trying to block the pain as much as possible. Around mile 22 another runner noticed my unique running gate and asked if I was okay. After telling him the story he said he was quite impressed that I was not only running this race, but doing it on an injured foot. He gave me some of his aspirin and we ended up staying together the rest of the way as he was having knee problems himself. A mile later we picked up another runner who was having problems and then a fourth runner. We called ourselves the gimp train as we all helped each other down the mountain.

We passed my 25 and we finally got off the trail and onto even concrete roads. Was never so happy to see that. I just wanted this to be over so I finally “ran” as fast as I could. Running through the city there was still great support encouraging us. 8:33.23 later, I finally finished that race. The hardest most frustrating race ever.

I met up with Rachel afterwards and took off my shoe and sock to find my left big toe black and blue, in way worse condition that I thought it would be. But it was done. Got my medal and pizza and called it a day.

An Xray the next day would show it not broken thankfully, but I actually chipped off a piece of bone in my toe. I was planning to take some time off after this race but not like this in a walking boot!

Overall, I feel very frustrated but also super accomplished I finish this race. We started with around 800 runners, and only 640 finished. Just a true testament with how hard this race is! Now time to heal up and get ready for the next one!

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peacefulheartfarm · 6 years ago

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What Does It Mean To "Get In Touch With The Land?"

Spring has finally arrived. At least the spring equinox has passed. I feel a weight lifted off my shoulders. Looking forward to sharing the homestead life with you. Today it’s about “getting in touch with the land”.

Today’s Show

Homestead Life Updates

What Does It Mean To “Get in Touch with The Land?”

Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Homestead Life Updates

Retraining cows

Now that spring is approaching, we are preparing to begin the milking cycle once again. I’m excited. I can’t wait. Milking the cows is one of the great pleasures of our homestead life. Every fall we stop milking the cows. That causes the cow’s milk to dry up. This step in husbanding our animals is important. We want to make sure that each cow has the energy reserves she needs to feed her developing calf. After she has her calf, she has lots and lots of milk – more than her calf needs, and milking begins.

Before that date, it’s important to get the cows back into the habit of walking to the milking shed every day. They need to be reacquainted with that process. To fulfill that need, we have started walking them up to the milking shed every day. It has gone pretty well so far. They get there just fine. It’s the part that comes next that we will be working on diligently for the next week or so. It has been a while since they’ve actually been inside the milking shed. There are some unfamiliar aspects to the milking shed. And then there are those that have never been in the milking shed. We’ll get them there with a little practice.

The Milking Shed

Last year we erected a newer version of our temporary milking shed. We used it the previous year in the only flat place nearby the corral. Scott even ran power out there. Unfortunately, the corral area is also a lowland area and a lot of rain water flows through there. Not a problem if you only use it occasionally. Twice a day for milking is a different story. We were trudging through mud. All. The. Time. The temporary floor of the milking shed was a few sheets of plywood. That was fine as long as you didn’t step off the plywood. Everything around the area was deep mud, made deeper by the weight of those cows.

Last year Scott moved the ShelterLogic Shed-in-a-box structure to higher ground and made a small animal loafing area to hold the cows while two were in the shed. It was level and he made sure the water would flow around it. We didn’t need the plywood floor. Or so we thought. There is always a lesson when using temporary structures. Afterall, we evolved our permanent structures based on each previous need.

The Concrete Pad in the Milking Shed

A few days ago, Scott poured a concrete pad under that shelter. It took him a day of very hard work. It’s beautiful and will serve us well this season. But why did we need it? Last year we milked one cow. This year we will be milking 5. Here are the basics of how that works.

Under the shed are two spaces for cows to be milked. They walk in and put their heads into a stanchion. We secure their heads which keeps us all safe during the milking process. The milk cows get two handfuls of a sweet treat during the milking season to keep their health at a maximum while they produce lots of milk. Once they finish that, they start working on the hay. Everybody stays calm and content. Once the milking is done, they return to the rest of the herd hanging out in a small pen just outside.

The Milking Process

So why did we need the concrete pad? One of the lovely things about having animals is their freedom to express themselves at any time and anywhere. The shear amount of feces and urine from 5 cows on that dirt floor would be overwhelming. The way it worked last year was that we might go days without one of the cows practicing the eliminating of waste with abandon. Then again, it may happen day after day, twice a day. We were putting down lime in large amounts.

So, the concrete pad, while taking way a day from Scott’s working on the creamery, was well worth the investment. I can’t imagine the mess 5 cows would have made had we done it the same way as last year. The concrete pad is slightly slanted. Scott being the genius that he is, also made sure of a path for washing away the mess. I feel blessed and can’t wait to give it a go. Last year I had to balance my stool on tree roots.

Calves and Other Animals

No news on when the birth of the first calf might be. We are watching and watching.

Other animal news, the two young goat kids spend a great deal of time outside of the fence. We don’t worry about that because they just go back in as needed. The flock of sheep, the herd of goats and two donkeys moved into the garden area to graze the grass down before the garden gets going and they are not allowed in there.

The Garden

We took the plastic covers off of the raised beds today. Yay, I can plant. Well, as soon as it warms up just a little bit more. We’re right on the edge. I’m ready. The plants I have started inside are ready. Come on weather. Get with it!

And that brings me to the topic of the day.

What Does it Mean to “Get in Touch with the Land”?

The first thing I want to talk about is the movement of the seasons. The extremes of the summer and winter solstice and the balance in the middle with the spring and fall equinox.

Winter

The force of nature is immense. The universe is immense. Everything about our world outside of the shelter of our homes is untamable and works on its own schedule. Let’s take a look at this past winter.

It has been a long and hard winter, not just for us, but for many throughout the country. Major snow, deep cold, and the flooding accompanying the interminable rains. Here in southwest Virginia we have been blessed with the first dry spell since August last year. It’s the first time since August that we haven’t had rain each and every week. Sometimes torrential rains for days on end. Heck, we had to alter the pathway we bring the cows to the barn. Their usual pathway went through the creek bed. Only the creek bed has been flooded countless times since late last summer. With seven 1,000-pound cows trudging through it day after day to get water, it became a quagmire of mud. Bringing them back and forth twice a day for milking looked like a nightmare in the making.

Yay It’s Dry!

We have been blessed with a week of dry weather. It’s not something we had any control over and we are grateful for the break. Many in the Plains states continue to suffer the ravages of the weather flooding their lands.

Why would anyone want to do this on purpose? Why would anyone do this knowing that nature was going to slap us hard from time to time. I can answer that in 5 words. It makes us feel alive. It’s all about life and death and the continuous cycle of the seasons. The continuous cycle of death and rebirth that gives us a deep appreciation for the life we have as well as the gifts of our family. We appreciate the gifts of our plants and animals.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

The seasons move on a rhythm and winter flowed toward spring. I commonly experience seasonal affective disorder. For me it usually begins some time in January. For others, it can start as early as late fall before the winter solstice. The shortest day of the year. The depths of darkness.

The season of winter is a time of everything shutting down. Outside the world becomes more immobile. The animals cluster together. The water freezes. The trees spend their time growing underground where the temperature is stable. Above the ground they look dead.

As the winter wears on I become more lethargic, less active, and quite dull. This is an inner experience I’m describing. Outwardly, life goes on. Tasks are completed if more slowly. Stuff gets gone. Because, after all, the globe is still spinning on its axis and time keeps going. But as it goes on and on, each day I would feel a heavier load pressing down on me.

This year my perspective was different. I’m here “in touch with the land” and I think it made a difference. Even though I could feel the pressure of hunkering down, I was not quite as profoundly affected by it. And the day it changed was profound.

Spring Has Sprung

I woke up on Thursday morning, the day after the vernal equinox, and I felt great. For no particular reason, I felt great. And I knew it was over. Winter is over. The winds are blowing very strongly today on a day cooler than normal for this time of year. It doesn’t matter. My heart and soul know that the time of hibernation is over. Spring is here.

I don’t really know what it’s like for others that live farther south where the trees and flowers have been blooming for a week or two or more. Did they feel it all the way up to the first day of spring? I don’t know what its like for those farther north still in the depths of frozen snow and ice. Do they feel it? Even though they may not see it for weeks, do they feel it?

In truth, we have a week or two before we can expect truly spring-like weather. We could easily get another snow. But it doesn’t matter. The globe has turned in its endless journey around the sun. The moment when the center of the sun is directly above the equator is past. The hours of daylight continue to lengthen. The daffodils are blooming. Our peach, plum, and cherry trees are blooming in the orchard. We have starting the journey toward summer.

Summer

At the peak of summer, our tolerance for the heat has likely begun to wane. The extreme of the solstice will now take its toll. Will we get enough rain? Even though we were flooded for months and months, we will need rain during the summer to keep our animals and crops hydrated. The cycle of life and death is there in every season.

This is what it means to be in touch with the land. We are close to life and we are close to death every day. We are reminded daily of the wonder of life and the fragility of life. Isn’t that what we are all looking for? That connection with the natural cycle of life and death and the wonder that is creation. I strive to be filled with awe in every waking moment. It’s pretty easy in spring, summer and fall.

Getting in Touch with Modern Technology

Sure, I get distracted by Twitter and Facebook and the latest cooking gadget. These are great things that have made our lives easier. Each invention throughout history came to fulfill a need. And each one brings with it the opportunity make life easier, safer, more uniform. Today, in the US, the lowliest person has a better chance of surviving to old age than the average person of 100 years ago. In the early 1900s disease was still rampant and modern medicine was in its infancy. The nationwide transportation system had yet to be built. People were closer to their food source by necessity. You just couldn’t get fresh food as far across the country before it was no longer fresh. All of that changed rapidly throughout the 1900s.

The more we got mechanized, the less we had to worry about the fickleness of mother nature and the cycles of the calendar. And the more distance we placed between ourselves and death.

Nature is Ruthless and We are Humbled

Nature is hard. Nature is ruthless. Being in touch with the land and living close to that knowledge gives me the sense of my place in the world. I am such a small speck in the larger planet and universe. Isn’t that what it means to “get in touch with nature”? Isn’t that what we seek? When the facts of death are thrown in our face daily, it gives us the deepest respect for life. We know that we are alive. We are grateful to be alive. Obsession with our creature comforts and personal issues becomes small and petty. We are focused on something much greater than ourselves.

It’s taking that thought into the activities of our daily lives that makes the difference. You know, we spend a lot of time creating food here. In that process, we experience a great deal of love for our animals and we put in a lot of work hours into supporting them. We care for their lives. These are domesticated animals. Their lives are in our hands. We work hard for them. The amount of effort we put into providing the best possible environment for them is worth the effort we put forth. Our investment of blood, sweat and tears is what makes us all more human.

Support Local Farmers

As we share our stories, the opportunity for you or anyone else to participate abounds. You don’t have to be the one putting in the effort required to make it all work. But you can be the one that supports the ideal of nurturing ourselves via nurtured plants and animals. It doesn’t have to be all factory farming and monocropping. Your support for the local farmers in your area brings a little bit of peace to the world.

Sometimes we feel like we don’t make a difference. It’s easy to change that. It’s easy to teach your kids to know they make a difference in the world. Connect with your local farmers. Visit their farms when they offer tours. Make sure your kids can play in the dirt of a farm garden. Let them pet the smaller animals and watch with awe from a safe distance the larger animals grazing peacefully. Let your children know that these are not just beautiful plants and animals, but the sustenance that keeps us all alive. What an awesome responsibility we have in caring for our plants and animals so they may feed and take care of us.

Keep your ears peeled for when we offer farm tours. It’s coming.

We are all just small specks in the enormity of the universe. And we are all integral specks in the creation and maintenance of it all. Well, I just went on waxing poetically there. Let’s get down to brass tacks and talk about today’s recipe. How about an ooey gooey grilled cheese sandwich.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

If you’re going to enjoy cheese, I can think of no better way than melted on some toasted bread slathered with butter. A grilled cheese sandwich is simple to make but improvements can always be made. This recipe will give you the confidence to make your grilled cheese sandwich spectacular. Here are some tips for making that perfect grilled cheese sandwich.

4 Tips for the Perfect Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Tip #1: Use a really great bread. I have some great bread recipes that will be coming along shortly. For now, you might want to visit your local farmer’s market. I don’t think I’ve seen one in a long time that didn’t have some local lady making some awesome bread. You can experiment with whole grain varieties, sourdough, or pumpernickel. Experiment to your hearts content. Just make sure its not sliced too thick and doesn’t have a lot of holes. Otherwise you either don’t have enough cheese to bread ratio or the cheese leaks out. Yikes.

Tip #2: Using butter is great but have you tried mayo? Usually we use butter on the outsides for sure. Sometimes we butter the insides as well. But what if we used mayo on the outside and butter on the inside – or vise versa? Mayo is basically oil, eggs, and a splash of vinegar. The oil browns the bread really nicely when used on the outside and the vinegar adds a bit of tang.

Tip #3: Use the right cheese. American cheese melts really well, but man o man is it boring compared to other choices. You definitely want a cheese that melts well. Just about any aged cheese will work well, with the exception of really hard cheeses like parmesan. So, gouda, cheddar, gruyere, fontina, and so on. Look for availability of our Clau d’ ville Aged Cheddar, Ararat Legend washed-curd cheese and Pinnacle alpine-style cheeses this summer at the Farmer’s market in Wytheville.

Tip #4: Cook it slow. Keep the heat in the medium to medium-low range. You want the bread to toast at the same rate the cheese melts. You definitely don’t want to burn the bread before the cheese is fully melted. Press is firmly with a spatula. You can even put a heavy pan on top of it while it cooks. That pressure is going to give you that super crispy crust.

What You Need

1/3 cup (3 oz) of cheese per sandwich, sliced or grated

2 slices of bread per sandwich

1 Tbs Butter per sandwich

1 Tbs Mayonnaise per sandwich

What to do

Apply butter or mayo to one side of the bread. Flip it over and apply butter or mayo to the other side. Lay it on a plate. Lay the cheese on top of the bread. Lay the cheese on top of the bread. Apply butter and mayo in the same way on the second slice of bread. Lay it on top to complete the sandwich. Repeat to assemble all sandwiches.

Heat your grill or frying pan to medium-low. You can raise the temperature to medium if your cheese is melting rapidly enough.

Place the sandwiches in the pan. Grill until lightly browned and flip over. Continue grilling until cheese is melted and bread is browned on the second side. Press down with a spatula to get a crispy panini bread crust.

Final Thoughts

No matter the size of your household, you can get in touch with the land. From container gardens of herbs on your balcony to a full-blown backyard garden, from a great relationship with your family and pets to a backyard chicken coop and goat pen, there are opportunities to view nature in all her glory. Take the time to just gaze with awe and remember how small we are in the larger scheme of things. Use that awe to inspire you to do something for someone else. Use random acts of kindness to show appreciation for the wonder of life that exists all around us, every day. All we have to do is look.

I hope you’ll take time to enjoy that grilled cheese sandwich with close friends and family. You’ll find the recipe on our website. www.peacefulheartfarm.com Sign up for our email list. I send out a newsletter each week with easy links to the recipes. Included will be the link to the latest podcast. You’ll also find links to articles about cheese in the news.

Remember, getting in touch with the land by making a huge investment in a homestead is not required. Simply get in touch with someone who is in touch with the land. Listen to their story. Embrace their story. Live vicariously through them. Make their story your own via your friendship and custom. Understand what it takes to be close to the land. Understand the immensity of nature. Your farmer will share that with you. In that sharing lies your connection to the land.

As always, I’m here to help you “taste the traditional touch.”

Thank you so much for listening and until next time, may God fill your life with grace and peace.

Recipe Link

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

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