#dad council has an announcement

[dumbass-duo-showdown]

ROUND 1!

To start, round 1 will take place during 2 days. Both starting at 5pm CET with the first 8 groups on each side, then with the other 8 at 8pm CET. With a break in between group 1 (apple) and group 2 (bapelsin).

We start with most votes, then by fandom. The rest is random

Round 1 - apple, 8/4-2023, day 1

God (bible) vs Reigen Arakata (mob psycho 100), finished

John Silver (treasure planet) vs Donquixote Rosinate (one piece)finished

Garmadon (Lego Ninjago) vs All Might (my hero academia), finished,

Bandit Heeler (bluey) vs Heinz Doofeshmirtz (Phineas and Ferb), finished,

Maes Hughes (full metal alchemist) vs Uncle Iroh (avatar, the last airbender), finished

Bob Blecher (bob’s burgers) vs Professor Utonium (PowerPuff girls), finished

Yosuke Koiwai (Azumanga Daioh) vs Iruka Umino (Naruto), finished

Asura (asura’s wrath) vs Darkwing Duck (ducktales cinematic universe I mean darkwing duck), finished, finished

Hakoda (avatar the last airbender) vs Kaname Date (ai: Somnium files), finished

Sojiro Sakura (persona) vs Ice King (adventure time), finished

Richard Waterson (the amazing world of gumball) vs Dr Venomous (ok ko let’s be heros), finished

Splinter (teenage mountain ninja turtles) vs Kazuki Kurusu & Rei Suwa (buddy daddies), finished

Jotaro Kujo vs Bruno Bucciarati (JoJo’s bizarre adventure), finished

Greil vs Eliwood (fire emblem)

Peony vs Kukui (Pokémon), finished

Seteth (fire emblem) vs Phoenix Wright (ace attorney), finished

Day 2 9/4

Largo the black lion (tales in the abyss) vs David Evans (Inazuma 11), finished

Loid Forger (SpyxFamily) vs Ferid (Suikoden V), finished

Kotestu Kaburagi (tiger and bunny) vs Tim Lockwood (cloudy with a chance of meatballs), finished

Naoki Gotoh (bocchi the rock) vs Oscar Proud (the proud family), finished

Shouta Aizawa (my hero academia) vs Bill Green (big city greens), finished

Dracula (hotel Transylvania) vs Donald Duck (ducktales), finished

Ken Shirashi (project Sekai) vs Sailor Uranus (sailor moon), finished

Skipper (penguins of Madagascar) vs Norisuke Higashikata the 4th (JoJo’s bizarre adventure), finished

red leg Zeff (one piece) vs Sully (monsters inc), finished

Kouhei Inuzuka (sweetness and lighting) vs Geto Suguru (jujutsu Kaisen), finished

Alibert (wakfu) vs Oboro (Suikoden V), finished

Meta Knight (Kirby) vs Senshi (delicious in dungeon), finished

Jades Curtiss (tales of the abyss) vs Gru (despicable me), finished

Pankraz Gotha(dragon quest 5) vs Zenkichi Hasegawa (persona), finished

Keiji Shinoji (your turn to die) vs Kanan jarrus (Star Wars: rebels), finished

Chilchuck (delicious in dungeon) vs Mr Ping (kung fu panda), finished

Bapelsin day 1, 11-4

Eddie Diaz & Evan Buckley vs Bobby Nash (911), finished

Benjamin Sisko (Star Trek deep space 9) vs Dad Egbert (homestuck), finished

Subject Delta (bioshock) vs Damien Bloodmarch (dream daddy), finished

Goldlewis Dickinson (guilty gear) vs Atticus Finch (to kill a mockingbird), finished

Paul Blofis (Percy Jackson) vs Kazuhira Miller (metal gear solid), finished

Gomez Addams (the Addams family) vs Din Djarin (the mandalorian), finished

Hans Hubermann (the book thief) vs Lee Everett (telltales the walking dead), finished

Kiryu Kazuma (yakuza) vs Waymond Wang (everything everywhere all at once), finished

PART 2

Jean Valjean (les misérables) vs Joel Miller (the last of us), finished

Calvin’s dad (Calvin and Hobbes) vs Augustus Aquato (psychonauts), finished

Pyrrha Dve (the locked tomb) vs Dustan Thron (stardust), finished

Neon J (no straight roads) vs Common Wubbox (my singing monsters), finished

Patton Sanders (sander sides) vs Doc Louis (punch out), finished

Alther Mella (septimus heap) vs Riki (xenoblade), finished

Digby Wolf (fables/a wolf among us) vs Bob Cratchit (a Christmas carol) , finished

Petey (dogman) vs Mo Folchart (inkheart), finished

Day 2, 13-4

Alfred (Batman) vs Gandalf (lord of the rings), finished

Asgore Dreemurr (undertale) vs Micheal Bluth (arrested development), finished

Dave Seville (Alvin and the chipmunks) vs Martin Penderwick (the Penderwicks), finished

Anthony Herzen (professor Layton) vs Chimney Han (911), finished

Glamrock Freddy (five nights at Freddy’s) vs Mr Carrisford (a little princess), finished

Poseidon (Percy Jackson) vs bail Organa (Star Wars), finished

Neir Gestalt (Neir) vs Kim Dokja (Omniscient readers viewpoint), finished

Hal Wilkerson (Malcom in the middle) vs Ness’ dad (earthbound), finished

PART 2

Tony Stark (MCU) vs Lee Scoresby (his dark materials), finished

Dream (sandman) vs Kat (all quiet on the western front), finished

Thrushpelt (warrior cats) vs Teacher (the girl from the other side) , finished

Barret Wallace (final fantasy) vs Lazlo Cravensworth (what we do in the shadows), finished

Domingo Montoya (the princess bride) vs Charlie Swan (twilight), finished

Geralt of Rivia (the Witcher) vs Terry Jeffords (Brooklyn 99), finished

Dan Espinoza (Lucifer) vs Rupert Giles (Buffy), finished

Pollination Tech 9 smith (the sims 2) vs Marko (saga), finished

Okay basic questions time before I get a bunch of anon asks

“Two of these are women.”

Father figures also count

“Some of these doesn’t have their own kids”

See point 1

“Why is there only a few characters from the same franchise going against each other but sometimes they aren’t”

Because I only recognized fire emblem, Pokémon, and JJBA at first.

“Aus doesn’t count”

As a previous undertale fan. I could care less. And I am not replacing Tim with BAMSE.

“Replace x with Bamse”

Sorry but. Findus and Skalman have already won. 3 times are a bit too much for us sweds.

“911 is copaganda”

You see Brooklyn 911 (picked by wheel) and you go against fireback mountain. Shame on you anon.

“Dad council these aren’t all random”

Yeah but Neon J vs Wubbox = chaos

Code of conduct

EXTRA BATTLE

[ratgrinders]

Ok here's an updated timeline of the Rat Grinders based on the new info we got this episode:

Freshman Year

On the first day of classes Kipperlily and the others meet and form their adventuring party. Kipperlily comes up with the name the High Five Heroes.

Kipperlily excels academically, but the High Five Heroes only go on easier adventures, presumably to ensure they will succeed rather than fail at something challenging.

Ruben is primarily an acoustic/soft rock musician.

Kipperlily begins to have childish rage and resentment towards Riz and the other Bad Kids, which start out petty but gradually grow in intensity over the next couple years.

Sophomore Year

An increase in hostility, one of the first meetings Kipperlily has this year is being jealous that Riz's dad was killed by Kalvaxus, that if a person has suffered immense magical hardship it is an unfair advantage in adventuring.

Kipperlily tries to find evidence of conspiracy with her parents and is enraged that they are boring.

A week after spring break the High Five Heroes go on their first quest to the mountains of chaos, chaperoned by Jace Stardiamond.

After this, the High Five Heroes seem to undergo a shift where their rage is amplified. Kipperlily's counselor files become much more venomous towards the Bad Kids, Ruben shifts to emo music, etc.

At some point after this Ivy and Oisin propose changing the name to the Rat Grinders. Kipperlily opposes this and Lucy is on her side, but Ruben votes against her because it makes her upset and Mary Ann also votes against her but doesn't explain her reasoning.

A piece of paperwork is submitted for Lucy to change her god, but another piece of paperwork is filed afterwards rescinding that application, presumably by Lucy herself changing her mind.

Towards the end of the year, after grades are finalized but before classes are over thus avoiding the pass/fail penalty, Lucy dies in the far haven woods near Aguefort. Presumably, she could have been resurrected in service of this unnamed rage god, but chose not to. She "stuck to her guns".

Kipperlily's rage towards the Bad Kids has transitioned from childish to venomous, she "hates them".

Junior Year

At some point between the end of Sophomore year and the beginning of Junior year, the Rat Grinders specifically request Buddy Dawn join their party as a cleric.

At 8:01 am, the first day of classes, Kipperlily goes to Ashgrove to dig up the rogue teacher's grave, thus forcing her to reveal herself and granting Kipperlily a pass for all her rogue classes for the year. Presumably she was aware of the rogue teacher's grave beforehand (information only available in Arthur Aguefort's office) but waited until the start of Junior year so she could pass all her classes for the year.

Kipperlily announces her bid to run for student council president, with a platform based on equity, equanimity, and fairness.

Kipperlily asks Jawbone about the creation of Yes! and the events of prompocalypse

Her counselor notes become extremely enraged, with her straight up wanting to kill Kristin and being angry that she can't get to her thanks to Fig's protection.

Oisin, Ivy, and Buddy are seen at Fabian's house party during the first week of classes. Kipperlily is not seen but is possibly there invisible. The Bad Kids are asked to do drugs but decline. That same night, mephits steal part of a cloud rider engine kept in Seacaster Manor.

At the school assembly the following day Principal Grix reveals he was notified of students doing drugs off campus, meaning its possible the Rat Grinders tipped him off in an attempt to get the Bad Kids in trouble.

Ruben performs presumably some kind of ritual at the Frosty Fair Folk festival, with the other Rat Grinders conspicuously absent. Simultaneously, Yolanda Badgood falls dead in the same place where Lucy Frostblade died, after Yolanda had been made aware of Lucy's change in god and was investigating it. Yolanda also refuses to be resurrected in service of the rage god.

The Rat Grinders are seen at the assembly addressing Yolanda's death and how all clerics would be moved to pass/fail. Most look bored, Mary Ann isn't paying attention, and Buddy is unconcerned.

Kipperlily and Oisin get caught trying to sabotage the Bad Kids' Last Stand exam, and Kipperlily kills Buddy. Ten minutes after the Bad Kids plane shift away, Buddy is revived by an unknown figure and he pledges his allegiance to the rage god.

Now the Rat Grinders are scheduled for another trip to the Mountains of Chaos and are on complete lockdown, hiding all of them from Adaine's divination magic.

[seravphs]

棠 —

ੈ♡˳·˖✶ — TEEN DAD! GOJO x FEM READER

Gojo has something to tell you. Megumi is unfortunately still a member of the male species. Tsumiki just wants to watch the sunset. 

wc — 1.5k

cw — interlude between tried to live in a softer way and stockholm (coming soon), 棠 means "wild plums", Megumi’s a good boy but he’s still a boy (gross), part of teen dad gojoverse, in which you and Gojo raise Megumi together, I lowkey forgot Tsumiki existed when I first started writing Teen Dad! Gojo so now I have to retcon her in 

Megumi’s mouth is smeared with purple pulp. 

“You better have washed that,” you warn him as you carefully cut Tsumiki’s fruit for her. Your knives drip juice onto the ground, requiring careful attention to make sure the sugar won’t rust them. 

Some cursed weapons are durable, outlasting generation after generation of the sorcerers that wielded them. Yours are more delicate. Like flowers, they require great care.

Tsumiki takes the slice you hand her with gratitude and pops it into her mouth with a little shiver of happiness. Her fingertips are turning purple to match Megumi’s lips. You pour a little water from your bottle over them, and place another slice into her mouth yourself. 

“A little dirt is good for him,” Gojo calls from where he’s wedged halfway inside the trunk, fighting for the folding chairs he threw in haphazardly. Now they’re stuck. You told him they would be, and he hadn’t listened. 

You make an unconvinced noise in the back of your throat, pursing your lips. He can’t see you, of course. 

“Germs are gonna make his immune system stronger. Eat up, Megumi!”��

Megumi wrinkles his nose and unhappily swallows his bite. The next time Tsumiki hands him a slice of her (washed) plums, he takes it. Nothing ever works as well on him like Gojo and inadvertent reverse psychology. 

After another minute of letting Gojo struggle to prove a point, you reach over and tug on a latch. The chair Gojo is struggling with snaps shut so you can effortlessly pull it out of the trunk. Gojo smiles sheepishly. 

“What did we learn from this?”

“Wife is always right?” He says cheekily. 

“Can I help?” Tsumiki pops up underneath your elbow. 

“It’s okay,” Gojo ruffles her hair. “We got it.” 

He pushes you gently away when you try to take a chair, carrying three singlehandedly to the spot where Megumi and Tsumiki are waiting with the picnic basket. You know he wants you to gush over him, but you don’t want to give him the satisfaction. 

You purposefully turn away to start setting out the food, only for him to saunter over as soon as Tsumiki and Megumi are sitting in their newly placed chairs. 

“Did you see that?” 

“You are the strongest, Satoru.” This is easy work for him. 

“Okay, but it’s still cool, right?” 

Sometimes you want to ignore him and sometimes you want to give in. Gojo, like Megumi is predictable. He needs the carrot and the stick. 

“Yeah,” you smile. “It was cool. You know what would be cooler?” 

He’s setting out the dishes before you even have to ask. 

You’re not fooled even though Gojo’s acting completely normal. As lighthearted and nonchalant as he is, anyone who didn’t know better would think there’s nothing in the world that could phase him, but you do know better. 

He’s not the type to share his issues, especially not when he thinks he can solve them on his own, which is what you think is going on here. It’s fine. 

You don’t press. He’ll tell you when he’s ready. 

“Someone’s coming,” Megumi announces. 

Gojo raises an eyebrow. “And how do you know that?” 

He looks away, eyes shifty. 

“You know you’re not supposed to be summoning your dogs in public!” You scold him. 

Technically, he’s not supposed to know anything about his technique yet. Young sorcerers aren’t allowed to use their technique if they’re not enrolled at Jujutsu High. Of course, it’s different for clans, especially big clans. None of the elders who sit on the council are going to punish one of their own for getting ahead of the game. In fact, they’re quite willing to turn a blind eye to anything that makes their clan more powerful, even if it means starting their young off early. Too early, in your opinion. 

Gojo disagrees with this judgement, as he disagrees with everything the elders say. He’s been training Megumi in secret, slowly getting him used to the Ten Shadows. The dogs, which Megumi’s manifested since he was young, were the first to become tamed. They’re the easiest for him to control, so he looses them more often than he should. Regardless of what Gojo thinks, it’s simply not safe. You don’t want to give the Zenins any reason to take Megumi and Tsumiki. 

Megumi calls his shikigami back. They evaporate into shadow just as an old couple hobble up the dirt path. 

“Oy, granny!” Gojo calls, ignoring you as you smack his arm. “You need a hand?” 

“I’m okay,” she calls back. “Don’t worry about me! Just taking my daily walk.” 

Gojo gives you an aghast look. 

“Why are they hiking up here? One of them is going to break a leg,” he hisses. 

“Are you sure?” You ask them hesitantly. 

“My, aren’t you sweet! I’m alright, hon. The fresh air will do these old bones some good.” 

Beside her, her husband nods in agreement. He seems like the silent type to her extrovert. 

“What’re you two doing up here?” She says, picking her way over. 

Tsumiki holds up her plate. “Picnicking!” 

“How cute,” the old woman coos as she pinches her cheek. 

“And you! Why, I could just eat you up,” she tells Megumi, who looks mildly alarmed, not at her words, but at her attention. He squirms in his seat. 

“Your little brother?” The couple smiles as you stiffen. It’s not their fault. They have no idea. 

“My son,” Gojo says, his own smile turning unpleasant. 

“Oh!” She seems to sense she’s made a mistake of some sort, taking her husband’s arm once more. “I’m sorry, you seemed so young. Well, I’m sure you want to get back to your picnic without these old folk. Be careful not to stay out too late! I hear there’s a storm brewing.” 

Her husband helps her carefully over the grass back on to the dirt path. She turns back to wave, just once. 

“That wasn’t nice,” you say, watching them leave. “They didn’t know.” 

Gojo rolls his eyes. “Whatever.” 

“Look!” Tsumiki jostles Megumi, who’s still focused on his food instead of the sky. “The sun is setting!”

Gojo picked a good spot. No trees obstruct your view of a sky stretching as far as the eye can see. As someone who’s lived in the city for so long, it’s almost a miracle to witness. 

The sky is awash in floral hues. Burnt orange, ashy lavender, and muted links spread throughout the clouds. You’re smiling, awestruck at the sight, when you hear a click. You turn back just in time to see Gojo shove his phone in his pocket. 

“Did you just take a picture of me?” 

“Nope! Why don’t you sit tight while I repack everything?” 

Even when you try to help, Gojo pushes you back in your chair. His little helpers dash back and forth from the makeshift campsite to the car until everything is safely packed away. 

When you finally get up and brush your lap off, Gojo offers you his arm. 

You laugh at him. “Come on, I don’t need that.” 

He pushes his arm in your direction again, insistent. He’s being such a baby today, but you can’t help spoiling him. You take it as he escorts you to the car and opens the door for you with a flourish. 

The kids don’t want to go home, but Gojo distracts them with promises of McDonald’s on the long, winding trip down the mountain. Megumi’s at that age where he knew better than to trust the strange white haired sixteen year old who offered to take him in but still gullible enough not to understand there are no McDonald’s on mountains. 

He and Tsumiki fall asleep in the back seat as the rain patters rhythmically on the windows. All around you, the earth is lush and verdant. You’re in Eden before the fall. It’s hard to stay mad when the forest is putting on such a show for you outside. The earth is blooming, beckoning. 

Gojo rolls down the sun roof so the warmth of weak sun beams shines into the car. If you look up, the rain beads on the glass like crystals on a backdrop of dove grey storm clouds. 

It’s still raining when you get home. 

Gojo carries Megumi and Tsumiki inside, one in each arm. It’s a testament to their sleepiness that neither protest. You drop a kiss on each cherubic little cheek as you tuck them into bed, pressing the covers down around them. 

Gojo’s waiting in the kitchen when you quietly close their bedroom door. 

“I have something to tell you,” he says almost half-heartedly, looking out the window. “But you have to promise not to be mad.” 

You knew it. 

Whatever it is, you’re sure you can take it. You and Gojo have been through the worst of everything together, from a bullet in the shoulder to whiney, feverish children. There’s nothing you can’t handle to keep your little family together. 

“The Zenins want to take Megumi away,” he blurts out. 

Okay, maybe that wasn’t what you were expecting, but it’s fine. You can make it work. 

“They’re coming tomorrow.” 

You’re going to kill him.

[syntheticavenger]

Splinter - Two

Hehehe. Worlds are COLLIDING.

One

Dark! Alpha! Thor x Omega! Female Reader

Word Count: 2.5K

Warnings: 18+ ONLY, world building, Alpha/Omega dynamics, intimidation. This is probably the last tame part for a while.

Summary | Your dream job provides prestige, security and a chance to shape your future. When one little mistake leads to Thor saving you in a time of crisis, his past promise comes back to haunt you.

“It was a star-studded night as two of the Avengers attended a charity gala for the Omega designation. Captain Rogers and Sergeant Barnes made their red-carpet debut with Captain Rogers’ ever elusive wife attending. Though she was not pictured alongside her husband, eyewitnesses report that Captain Rogers may just have a new role on the horizon: becoming a dad,” the reporter says with a cheerful smile.

Your slingback heel falls to the ground from your hand when you see Steve Rogers, posing with Bucky Barnes, unable to tear your eyes away from the screen before another clip of the gala is shown, Steve giving a speech.

“It is my duty, my one guiding principle in life, to stick up for those who can’t. I hope that I have done so thus far,” Captain Rogers says, charismatic smile on display.

“Do they know how you found your wife?” you mutter, picking up your shoe and slipping it on your foot, reaching for the remote and turning it off, Steve’s smug face disappearing.

You could never prove it, of course. Little whispers that the most advanced surveillance specialist had just given away her career was unheard of, even in your circles. No one questioning why, to this day, the position had never been filled.

Too many unspoken rules, too many hushed conversations that hid the truth.

Forcing yourself to file it away for later, the notification that the car has arrived pops on your cell, grabbing your purse and coat to head outside, locking the door and verifying that its closed. The half-run, half-walk to the waiting car is purposeful and with good reason.

Your first opening comments as a National Advisory Council Member of Intergalactic Diplomacy. Despite your sweaty palms, you’re prepared, going over your remarks at least five times since you had opened your eyes this morning.

“As a reminder,” your assistant Paloma interjects over the phone. “There will be Asgardians in attendance. I know you probably won’t mind but with the Intergalactic Alliance, there is a chance that he -”

“Thank you, Paloma.” Your hand grips your phone tighter. There’s nothing to worry about. It’s been months since you’ve seen him, since that fateful afternoon when you had ordered him out.

He had obliged, leaving you alone to pick up the pieces, rumors swirling that he and Jane had found their way back together. The nuisances of their relationship did not concern you, throwing yourself headfirst into work, learning all you could for it to lead up to this moment.

Asgardians or not, it doesn’t matter. You’ve worked hard to find a seat at the table and no one, not even an Asgardian God, is going to take that away from you.

“T-minus forty minutes until we go live,” Paloma reminds you. “You’re going to do great.”

⚡️

Paloma was right.

Asgardians clamor to be in attendance in the hall, their eyes on you when you walk past them.

They whisper your name, hushed voices fading once you reach the podium. You’d visited Asgard once in your life, when you were deep into wanting to know everything about Thor and his people. It was a world so much alike and unlike Earth that it unnerved you to think that one day he was planning to come back and rule as king.

You’d never be a queen.

You aren’t even sure if you ever wanted to be one as a child.

The audience quiets, multiple cameras on you, not a hair out of place when you finally lift your head to speak after being announced, applause quieting after a few moments.

“Thank you, Mr. Secretary General, your Excellencies, and ladies and gentlemen in attendance and beyond. I am here today to discuss our worlds and our role in creating an open dialogue of trust,” you begin, taking another breath. “With the newly formed Intergalactic Diplomacy Division, I am pleased to be a part of such an important agency as we recognize that our world is unique. It presents many challenges as we all work toward an understanding of what intergalactic diplomacy looks like in an ever-changing universe. It is crucial that we listen to understand, to listen for solutions and not to listen to react.”

The door opens, Thor strolling in his Asgardian garb, his red cape flowing out behind him, cameras panning to him as you swallow, ignoring him and the delectable scent that reaches your nose.

He keeps his attention on you, the cameras panning back to you.

“It is my hope that we share our strengths, our challenges and our opportunities for a bright future ahead. For us to be strong together, we must first be vulnerable with what we do not know, be willing to be educated and to open our minds and hearts to others that we may not readily understand. Our future is bright and will only become a reality when we work together. Thank you for your time.”

Thunderous applause erupts, with Thor standing up, Asgardians following suit.

Paloma’s voice is in your ear, telling you that you did a fantastic job, multiple people surging forward to shake your hand, the room slightly spinning with how often you have to greet well-wishers.

You try to block Thor’s never fading smile out of your head and his direct eye contact that seemingly burned into your soul when you’re ushered into a conference room for a talk through.

⚡️

“I didn’t expect the future King of Asgard to be in attendance,” Robert chuckles, looking up from his notes. “It’ll do wonders for media. You know Thor can’t be bothered to show up to these events.”

“I think I know why,” Susan says with a wink in your direction. “Did you tell him you were speaking?”

“No,” you reply through gritted teeth. “I did not.”

“Well, it worked out for us. Great job with the pace. I could really feel your passion in the message,” Robert praises, sitting back in his chair. “You aren’t with him anymore, are you? I think he was dating that physicist, Dr. Jane something, I believe? Whatever happened with you and him?”

“I’m sure she doesn’t want us in her business,” Susan answers for you, noting your discomfort. As Omegas go, she’s astute. “You did a great job today. You should be proud.”

“Now that it’s over, I can relax.”

Robert laughs at your comment, shaking his head.

“Not by a longshot. You embody our cause. Your journey is just beginning. I hope you’ve dusted off that passport.”

⚡️

Paloma meets you outside the conference room, beaming with pride as you walk out together. 

“The Asgardians being present? That was wild!” she exclaims. “How did you pull that off?”

“I didn’t,” you respond, seeing her confusion.

“So then… Thor…”

“That was all him.”

“Romantic,” she sighs, clutching her clipboard.

“Romantic that he broke up with me months ago to stare me down during my first media spot? I think we differ on what romantic means.”

“Oh, I just, I didn’t,” Paloma mumbles, her cheeks going red. “I didn’t realize how that sounded. I’m so sorry. Are you okay?”

“I’ll be better when I’m in the car.”

“Then let’s get you there.”

By the time the door opens, Paloma’s steps halt at the sight of Thor, surrounded by throngs of his people.

“Ah,” he says with a wave of his hand. “There she is.”

The Asgardians begin to applaud, Paloma looking over as you force a polite smile,

“I wanted to extend my appreciation for your comments today. It is my hope that we come to a strong understanding of interstellar people and Midgardians as well,” Thor continues, cameras flashing as he smiles, giving you a sly up and down gaze. “We are in your ever capable hands.”

“Thank you,” you respond quickly, Paloma ushering you into the car, seeing Thor watch you as Paloma waves for the driver to take off.

Looking out from the backseat, Paloma picks up her phone, dialing a number.

“I think it might be helpful if you have some security, don’t you?” she asks nervously.

You don’t have the heart to tell her that it’s pointless to fight against a god.

⚡️

Your phone rings twice, enough for you to answer it, a towel wrapped around you when you answer.

“Hi.”

“Thor,” you respond, unable to hide the irritation from your voice.

“I wanted to ask for a truce.”

“We weren’t fighting.”

“Is that the wrong word? Bruce told me to ask for a… branch?”

“Olive branch,” you respond tersely. “You already showed up to my media spot.”

“You needed support. Asgardians are excited for the news. They were happy to come.”

You feel a ripple of guilt for being irritated when he frames it that way, remembering the little children in attendance. 

“Well… thank you. I appreciate it.”

“And I wanted to ask about the olive branch. Have dinner with me.”

“Dinner?” you repeat, chewing on your lower lip. 

Dinner means a chance to relive the memories – good and bad – and make small talk about things you know either of you won’t care about. He’s moved on and you have too, in your own way. Dating hasn’t been an option, neither has even thinking about uploading a picture of a dating site, let alone signing up for one.

It seems harmless, this ask, to have one dinner and have it be done. Your confidence from the media event makes you wonder if you’re allowed to ask him questions about things you’ve only wondered about.

Maybe you shouldn’t wonder anymore.

Maybe you should demand.

“Okay,” you reply.

“Perfect. I’ll meet you around seven? I’ll give the details to your assistant.”

“Seven sounds fine.”

“See you then.”

⚡️

Gone is the red cape, replaced with a black sweater and black pants, his blond hair tied in a loose bun as he listens intently on what you’ve been working on.

You’ve tried to keep it light, ignoring the ways he sneaks in comments of how he misses you.

“I saw Steve on TV,” you continue, trying to change the subject. “The news says his wife is pregnant.”

“Hmm.”

“Hmm?” you press gently, Thor taking a bite of his dinner. 

“Hmm as in… hmm. Interesting.”

“So you will not confirm or deny.”

“It is not my business to share. That is Steve’s.”

He has a point. You try another angle, hoping to get some traction from it.

“I’m sure you’ve seen her. Does she ever miss her old job?”

Thor sighs, looking at you as he swallows.

“Why does she interest you so much all of a sudden?”

“All of a sudden? She was on TV, they mentioned her.”

“She’s Steve’s wife, why wouldn’t they?”

“She allegedly gave up her job for him? She was the surveillance director! That’s a big deal.”

“Is it?” he asks. “Or was it that she rearranged her priorities? Maybe Steve came first and then work fell to wayside.”

Frowning at his assumption, you shake your head.

“Didn’t seem like the sort.”

“Well, she was.”

You both eat in silence for a moment, background conversations taking over while you seemingly retreat from asking any additional questions about her. There’s no point if Thor is going to be so tight lipped, which only makes you more suspicious.

After a moment, he sighs, placing his knife and fork down.

“I want to talk about us.”

You sit still, waiting for him to continue.

“I don’t like being apart. I know I hurt you and I hurt myself in the process. I think we need a fresh start.”

“A fresh start,” you repeat, nodding at his words. “A fresh start before or after you were seeing Jane?”

“I wasn’t seeing Jane until we were completely done.”

“And what changed?”

“She’s a Beta, for Gods’ sakes. We were incompatible, you know that.”

“Didn’t exactly stop you from dumping me.”

You can see the flash of anger in his eyes, quick but palatable. He doesn’t like your tone – you can tell that by the tick in his jaw – but that doesn’t stop you from feeling free enough to speak your mind. You aren’t his anymore and there are no boundaries you need to be mindful of.

“I didn’t dump you, you left me no choice but to leave a once fulfilling relationship because you wanted to chase a dream. A dream that has come true and while I am happy for you, you know that you and I belong together.”

“You could have thought about that before you cleared out your things.”

“I need you to listen and understand me clearly,” Thor counters, his tone low. “Listen to me very carefully.”

At your silence and the set of your jaw, he lifts his head with a smile.

“You have made your point. I hear you loud and clear. I want a reconciliation. You and I make sense. You need me, especially with this job you’ve decided to take on.”

“I did need you, once,” you agree meekly. “I appreciate the dinner, Thor, I really do. I’m glad we had a chance to catch up and I wish it was under a better circumstance. But I can’t go through that again. I’m sorry.”

You can see his eyes darken when you stand, placing your napkin on the table.

“Goodnight,” he bids tersely, seeing you walk away.

Smiling to himself, he cuts into his steak, popping a piece of meat into his mouth.

“As if you have a choice in the matter,” he muses to himself.

⚡️

Paloma seems pleased with herself when she enters your hotel room with a paper drink tray filled with coffees.

“You’ll never guess what I managed to do,” she greets you excitedly, plopping down on a chair.

Packing the last of your things, you stop for a moment.

“What?”

“I got you twenty-four seven, around the clock security.”

“From where?”

“After you left, I was able to talk with some security agencies and before I knew it, they were able to offer three names. I have them on retainer but we can move onto a contract since it’s covered. They’re on their way up to be interviewed. I figured you’d want to have the final say.”

The knock at the door sends Paloma running, looking through the peephole before she flings the door open.

Your phone rings at the same time, Thor’s number popping up as something tells you to answer it.

“I was hoping to catch you before they arrived,” Thor says, your eyes going to the opened door. “But I forgot to tell you. Inked a security detail for you. Robert and Susan were overjoyed to know you would be in such great hands.”

You recognize them, the burly and massive men standing in a straight line.

Fandral, Volgstagg and Hogun.

“I trust you won’t be looking for any additional security since they know how important their job is to protect you by any means necessary.”

Paloma turns around, nodding her head excitedly as you swallow hard.

“What do you think? They’re great, right?”

[arverst-aegnar]

Day 30: Time Loop/Time Travel

heck yeah, i completed two days this year!!

the ending is a bit more abrupt than i wanted, but it just was not cooperating with me, and i was afraid that if i left it too long with my other incomplete Zutara Month ideas it might get infected with "takes too long to finish -itis". so here it is.

The word spreads quickly, covering the entire Earth Kingdom in a matter of days and reaching the Northern Water Tribe’s court within a week. Even the remnant of the Southern Water Tribe, all but forgotten at the bottom of the world, hears about it before the new moon.

Fire Lord Ozai is dead. His successor, Fire Lord Iroh, has declared his intentions to put an end to his nation’s war of domination. Petitions for peace and offers of reparations are being extended to all world leaders.

The Southern Water Tribe elders suspect a trap of some kind. Some think the proposed Peace Conference is actually an opportunity for him to kill the other nations’ leadership, leaving them vulnerable to his armies. Others suspect a subtler scheme to conquer the rest of the world through diplomacy, or perhaps a combination of culture and technology. 

For Sokka and Katara, who only hear the news by listening intently outside the elders’ meeting tent, there are more pressing matters at hand.

“Dad’s going to need me with him at this Peace Conference,” Sokka declares. He pulls out his boomerang and takes aim at a snowman some of the little kids built last week. “Whatever the Fire Nation’s planning, it’s no match for Southern Water Tribe ingenuity!”

Katara worries her bottom lip with her teeth. “What happened to Fire Lord Ozai?”

Sokka scoffs. “Who cares? He was a big, fat jerkbender like all of them. Probably set his bed on fire ‘cause he was roasting the Earth King in his sleep.”

She says nothing as her brother goes to pull his boomerang out of the snowman’s head. Nor does she say anything when her father announces that he and his entire family will be attending the Peace Conference, along with several of his best warriors. 

On the ship, she delights in opportunities to use her waterbending to speed it on its way, or to play pranks on Sokka, but often she is found deep in thought, wearing a pensive look much too old for her.

“You’re strangely quiet,” Kya observes as they prepare to disembark. The voyage is over, but the journey to Omashu will take at least another day. “Something eating you, sealpup?” She pokes her daughter in the side, which provokes a giggle that quickly fades. Face unusually solemn, Katara shakes her head. Kya frowns, but leaves the matter be.

The entry into Omashu is packed like salted fish in a barrel, people from all over drawn to the Peace Conference, but an envoy from the king gives their delegation precedence over the rest. Sokka cranes his head back to take in the architecture. Kya’s gaze flits around, trying to take in the variety of clothing worn by native and visitor alike. Hakoda’s attention is on his family, but he makes sure he knows where all his warriors are at the same time. Kanna, riding an ostrich horse graciously provided by the king, seems mostly interested in staying upright, but her head turns every now and then when a familiar scent wafts in from one of the market stalls. Katara, kept at the center of her family unit, has no interest to spare for any of it.

When they reach the palace, they are immediately brought to the main hall, where King Bumi, Chief Arnook, and three of the Earth Kingdom’s Council of Five await them, as well as Fire Lord Iroh. No sooner are the official introductions made than Katara turns to Fire Lord Iroh and, with a hasty bow, demands, “Did Zuko come with you?” A half-second later, flustered, she stutters, “I - I mean Prince Zuko.”

In the chaos of the sudden trip, some things were left to the last minute, and that includes the talk Hakoda and Kya intended to give their children about how to behave in front of foreign royalty. The blood drains from Kya’s face. Hakoda, his face a storm of anger stirred up by fear, takes a step toward Katara, prepared to pull her back to safety. But before he can, to their astonishment a broad smile spreads across the Fire Lord’s face. With a shallow bow, he waves a hand toward a door behind them. “Prince Zuko is in the garden, but I am sure he would not mind the company, if your parents think it acceptable.”

Katara is running towards the door before he finishes speaking.

*****

Katara knows she’s going to get in trouble for this later. It’s her own fault, putting off the explanation for so long, acting like the little girl they believe her to be -- as much as she can, at least. But whatever punishment they think up is nothing compared to what’s waiting for her in that garden.

If he doesn’t remember, if she’s still all alone in this, then no punishment could be worse. If he does …

She’s never seen the garden in the Omashu palace before. It’s more ornamental than the ones she’s used to, and the main features seem to be rocks and crystals more than trees and flowers. But she can sense water -- a fair amount of it, too, like a small pond -- and she doesn’t have to follow it far before she sees him.

Zuko is next to the pond, his back to her. He’s smaller than she’s ever seen him, and not just because he’s sitting down. His hair is long enough to brush his shoulders, even pulled up into the traditional topknot. Like his uncle, he is dressed in Fire Nation red and gold, but the cut of his robes looks different to her untrained eyes -- Earth Kingdom style, perhaps? Surrounding him are half-a-dozen turtleducklings, and the wave of affection that sweeps over her freezes her in place.

“Hey now.” She recognizes that mildly scolding tone, even if his voice is a little different than the one in her memory. “You have to share with your sister. You’re not getting more seeds just because you’re bigger.”

Katara tries to say something, but it seems all the words she wants to say are trying to come out at once, and have jammed up in her throat. She stumbles back half a step.

The crunch of the gravel under her feet gets his attention. His head turns slightly in her direction, then he’s leaping to his feet, turning towards her -- 

Oh.

He doesn't have the scar.

For one moment, Zuko stares at her with wide eyes. Then in the next, he’s closed the gap between them, pulling her into the tightest hug she’s ever had. Katara wraps her arms around him and buries her face into his shoulder. “Katara,” he breathes, and a little sob escapes her at the familiarity and warmth in that single word.

“Zuko,” she manages. Her voice wobbles but does not break on the name like she thought it might. “Oh, Zuko.”

He pulls back too soon, but he cups her cheek with one hand while the other brushes her hair out of her eyes. Katara tries to smile at him, but it’s hard when every emotion of the past three years wants to pour out at once. Instead, she reaches up and gently touches his left cheek. The skin is smooth and whole under her fingers.

Zuko closes his eyes, but not before she catches a flash of pain. Immediately, she knows what must have happened. Why he has no scar. How Ozai must have died.

“I thought I was dreaming at first,” he says hoarsely. “I told him off. Yelled at him for being a terrible father and a worse Fire Lord. Then -”

Katara shakes her head and pulls him back to her. This time he’s the one to bury his head in her shoulder. “I know,” she tells him, her throat still choked. “I know. I did too.”

Later, she thinks, she’ll tell him about Yon Rha. About how in her determination not to relive the worst day of her life, she had pulled on his blood with a ferocity she had only seen herself use in nightmares. What his corpse had looked like, afterwards, and the look on her mother’s face. How what had once been a fantasy of power and relief had, if only for a little while, become a horrifying reality. Maybe she’ll finally find the words to describe the contradictory emotions that have been warring in her ever since, but even if she doesn’t, it will be okay, because now she has someone who will understand.

For the moment, she holds him close as they both succumb to tears.

[frizzle-mcshizzle]

the first 4 kotlc books summarized in the most unhinged way possible, because it’s been like 6 years since i’ve actually read them

Keeper: You’re an elf Sophie, you have to live with your new guardians who have a pet t. rex, have fun being an outcast at school, secret messages from your creators?!? actually you where dumb and went near fire and now your guardians don’t want you :(. oh no child kidnapping!! girls first time almost dying in elf land!! she gets to stay in elf land and gets adopted happy ending YAY!!!

Exile: girl finds a magic HORSE, girl goes to prison to vist a ✨psychopath✨ and make him go 🔥insane🔥 because that’s a job for a 12yo!?! oh no she accidentally causes a man to go insane from guilt (his children hate her now) oh no she’s allergic to MIRRORS, time to go on a field trip on your magic horse and meet a old man in a cave, oh no the bad guys attack!!!, SHE CAN TELEPORT?!?, fixes the man she broke though the power of happiness and 💕 love 💕 the last non cliffhanger of the entire series 

(12 year old girl attacked by 5000 year old man happens sometime in these two books)

Everblaze: time to fix the psychopath you made go insane, oh no, he committed arson and killed somebody important!!! ogre king puts the fun in funeral by announcing his intention to commit mass gnomeocide and the girl commits WAR CRIMES FOR THE FIRST TIME (she should have known better you can’t even blame this on lack of elf lessons), your best friend is tricked into to making a torture device just👏 for👏 you!! the council is making you wear it as a punishment!! your dead adoptive sister was killed by her fiancé!?!, oh no your new dad is trying to kill him, you 🔥destroy🔥your torture device and plan to join a rebel organization, you are 13 years old, this is the start of the series cliffhangers 

Neverseen: children join rebel organization by following a old man through paris, ✨surprise✨ a mother stowed away with them (she knocks the man on his ass), boys fight over girl and end up being forced to basically kiss through their magic breathing tube for a unknown amount of time, T R E E H O U S E S!!!!, children meet the leaders (that they definitely don’t already know under different names), 🦄ALICORN SEX SCENE!!!🦄 the rebel leaders take the kids on a field trip! (it’s a prison brake), OH NO!! one of the hot boys™️ get stabbed by B U G, family puke party while he gets better, the children go to prison school for the man who they failed to prison brake!! Girl set herself on 🔥FIRE🔥 (don’t tell her parents), they meet twins!! one was bansihed for property damage and not because there’s society has no ability to teach overpowered middle schoolers hot boys™️ big brother comes to visit!! they go on ANOTHER field trip and this time Commit MORE WAR CRIMES, oh no!!! the big brother is actually evil!! oh no!! Tree lady activates tree power to save the other tree people!! 

part two

[moonlight-tmd]

Shockbee.

Where Bumblebee has a parent (or both) who is an assassin. Shockwave would probably recognize them.

It would also make the shovel talk scarier.

I might not have that exact one in mind but i do have similar- it's inspired by this which funny enough is also your previous ask.

SO- Taking most from the previous one, Bee's sire is an overseer of a small neutral colony and is also one of very few senators for the council. The colonies were declared asylums from war and work with their own laws and borders- ex; a wanted criminal would not be able to get arrested by cybertron's police during his stay in the colony.

TLDR; his dad is very important and can and will make somoene miserable to protect his son.

That being said, the fact Bee is a son of a senator is hidden. Dragonfly (his dad) send him to try to be on his own and to build that independence in him. It sucked at first but he managed, but something went wrong and he ended up in boot camp.

Now, I would say that Shockwave knew Bee from the colony- he used to babysit play with him when they were younger although Shockwave was quite older than Bee back then.

I suppose Bee recognised Shockwave, even in his disguised form cuz he knew how Shockwave himself was. Shock never told him the real reason of him being in boot camp, Bee figured he was trying to set his life straight.

Now, Shockwave knew Bee's sire was important and what he was capable of. If Bee has tried to date people in the past he was there to witness them being scared away by either just mere knowledge who Bee's sire is or very few interactions they might've had. He's seen few of the mechs Bee dated or known end up in a bad spot in life because of it. Worse for the ones that bullied him...

Knowing this he tried to stay away from entering any closer relations with the mech but life had other plans. He tried his best to hide his crush, which may also be the reason he helped Bee with so many problems he had; one of them being a relentless bully named Wasp. He was much violent towards Bee and few other bots.

The next time someone asked about Wasp Bee would overheard rumors that he was a spy. He asked Shock about it and he claimed to not be connected to the issue. It was weird... but Bee let it go.

The two kept contact when Bee went with Bulkhead to the repair crew, when Bee went missing Shockwave took it upon himself to find Bee.

He did and secretly informed Bee's sire about his whereabouts; Dragonfly saw the announcements and has send out search parties himself and was relieved that his son was found. Since Earth didn't have a connection to the cybertron's network Shockwave was an informator to Bee's sire about what his son does. Although he never mentioned needing to fight other Decepticons, Allspark or fighting Megatron in the future calls.

For the relationship itself; Idk i have very little on this unfortunately. All I can say is that Dragonfly knows Shockwave enough to know what he's capable of and Shockwave is very much aware of how badly Bee's sire can screw him over in life is he does something wrong.

If they get together then it's gonna be quite tense between the two for a while before they chill out a bit. Idk this is the only idea i had that matched what you gave me, even so I imagined Shockwave as like a 'past babysitter friend' to Bee than a romantic interest.

Sorry for the wait and have a good one.

[thecrazyphantom]

My curiosity has been piqued. Please, tell me about this AU...

*sigh* I have such adoring fans.

Anyways, since you guys are so interested, I'll share!

So pretty much, Fuyuhikos parents were only married because their parents were arranged to Wed. Their whole family is built off of Natural blondes with fair skin. Fuyuhikos Dad was only arranged to marry Fuyuhikos Mom (I'll give them both names eventually) Because her family was blonde, and high class. Both of Fuyuhikos parents despise eachother, but they haven't divorced yet because they still have to take care of the clan whilst simultaneously teaching their children (mainly just fuyuhiko) how to properly lead. This has happened to each generation for centuries. Once they're 16, they'll be arranged to marry.

3 months after Fuyuhiko turned 16, He got the dreaded letter that he would soon be announced to be betrothed at the next family meeting, which fuyuhiko dreads, but knows he'll be killed for skipping it.

Cue family meeting

Fuyuhiko is sitting across the table in an isolated room with Hiyoko in silence. They both know they don't want to be married to eachother but it has to be done, Hiyoko is the only one that the family and family council has agreed on.

Before they can even have a wedding they're both accepted into hopes peak and they now have to bear this secret that they're both fiancé's.

They eventually get along and pursue a relationship, but they never get morally engaged since neither of them want to appease their parents and Fuyuhikos Clan.

[starrieisdelusional]

Merlin fix it season 4 finale

Scene opens with kid arthur in the witch’s hut with morgana and merlin. Morgana asked him where his grandma is (old!gwen) and arthur said shes busy doing chores at home. Morgana notes the kid arthur is coming more and more frequent to their hideout.

Meanwhile back at the castle gwen is at a meeting with all the court members. Discussing about arthur’s removal from the throne. Gwen argues passionately, reminding them how much arthur has given to camelot and it’s people but the council disagrees and the decision is final.

When arthur arrives at the castle, he is confronted with the council straight into the meeting room. They are going to make aggravaine as king and arthur was silent for a second before he agrees. Yeah aggravaine is wiser, older, much more than him. Why the hell not. But gwen objects, saying that they should vote it out with the masses. And aggravaine lets her do it.

Gwen would later on make a polling station or the sort (the masses would either stand with aggravaine or arthur and they will do a head count) and ask the people to vote for either aggravaine or arthur, with both of their supporters made speeches on how great they are and why they should vote them as kings.

The results are in and aggravaine manages to peak in to see that arthur is actually winning and he manipulated the votes to make it seems that he won. The manipulated votes are bring to the council and this solidifies their decision to make aggravaine as king.

Gwen is exasperated but arthur is chill for the most part because he genuinely thinks his uncle is a better leader than him. But later that night an assassination attempt was made on aggravaine and the council blame arthur as the culprit.

Arthur said thats ridiculous but he doesnt have a solid alibi so he is sent to the dungeons to be executed the next day.

Arthur was bring to the crowed the next day for a public execution and arthur accepted his fate, preparing himself to meet his mum and his dad, and maybe even balinor. His only regret is that he didnt visited morgana and merlin for the last time.

But as the axe swings down the executioner is knocked back and arthur feels someone bringing him up to his feet. Merlin appears dauntingly in the crowd, say snarky stuff like “…is this how you treat your beloved king…?”

and the council retorted that aggravaine is the new king of camelot. And the main cast duke it out with the guards of camelot. The roundtable helped them escape and because they hate aggravaine and is going to get executed anyways for this, joins morgana and merlin on their escape.

Aggravaine lets them go for now and the series ends in aggravaine coronation, announcing himself as their new king

Season 4

Main post

[tedwardremus]

A Miraculous Christmas Moment

James wasn’t sure if the Christmas market was unusual because it was a Muggle market or because it was in London.

Then again the market in Godric’s Hollow was run by the Muggle Town Council so it must be London that was different. It was larger than he thought it would be, and busier. You don’t get many tourists to Godric’s Hollow unless it's to stop by for lunch on the way to a more tourist-friendly destination like Cheddar Gorge or some medieval abbey. 

London was just too much. He honestly didn’t know what Sirius loved about living in the city so much. Lily’s apprenticeship at the apothecary was in London so they decided to live there for now but James was truly itching to get back to the wide open spaces and lush landscapes of his youth - either in the Scottish Highlands or the West Country.  London was too large, too crowded, too smoggy, too noisy. James was too much of a country boy. Christmas means going to see the choir singing in the small stone church, it means going to the pub and having a pint with your neighbor, it means helping the shops in town put up lights and wreaths around the town square. Christmas is small, cozy, and warm. As far as James could tell, Christmas in London was a strategic plan to make people spend more money than they had to to have a miraculous Christmas moment.

But at least the warm nuts he bought from one of the stalls in the market were good. 

“Oh, James, look! Handmade glass ornaments!” James felt a tug on his hand as his wife (and how unbelievably exciting was it to call Lily his wife! He didn’t care that they’d been married since August. He was going to live the rest of his life thrilled that the most beautiful and intelligent witch agreed to marry him.) dragged him towards another small booth. “Aren’t they pretty?” Lily pointed a gloved finger to one of the baubles. 

James popped another chestnut in his mouth and gave a little hum in agreement as he looked around the surrounding stalls until he finally saw something amusing. “Hey look, Lil! Look at this!” 

“It’s a nutcracker, James.” 

“Yes, but look, it’s wearing a rat head with a crown on it! How funny! I should get one for Wormtail.” James picked up the wooden nutcracker and chuckled at the inside joke, “You don’t think he has one does he?”

“Probably not,” Lily laughed with James as she looked it over with him.

“I don’t understand though, why the rat face? The others just look like normal wooden soldiers.” James frowned as he looked at the stall to see if there were other funny animal-headed nutcrackers. “You think this Muggle just has a thing for rats?”

“No, James!” With a large laugh, Lily swatted James' arm and shook her head. “You wizards are so stubbornly ignorant, I swear. It’s from the ballet, you know, ‘The Nutcracker’.”

“I do not know that ballet or any ballets come to think of it…”

“Well, The Nutcracker is a very famous one. My mum took me and Petunia up to Birmingham when we were little to see it one Christmas. It’s about a girl who is given a magical nutcracker by her godfather at Christmas and then she goes on some adventures and in one of the adventures the nutcracker, who had come to life, fights the rat king.” Lily then took a moment to think before continuing, “Tuney loved the ballet when we saw it. When we came home she announced that she would be a ballerina and spent the next few weeks twirling around the house. But Cokeworth doesn’t have a dance studio and even if it did I doubt Mum and Dad could afford the lessons. Did you know ballet dancers go through new shoes practically every month? Petunia was really upset when she realized she couldn’t be a dancer and declared that ballet was stupid and only snobs like it and threw out the ballerina doll that Mum had bought her for Christmas.” 

James gave Lily’s hand a little squeeze, he didn’t have many kind things to say about Lily’s sister so he learned not to say much at all and changed the subject, “I think Wormy will like the rat king. Maybe we can get him a crown of his very own and they can match.” 

Lily agreed that the rat king would be a funny gift and as they wandered around the market some more, they pointed out other things for sale that amused them (“Look electric candles, Lily! What’s the point of that!” “James, stop yelling and pointing you’re like a toddler.”) (“Oh, James, listen to this music box!” “That’s a horrendous sound, let’s get one for your sister.”) and stopped to buy some hot chocolate (“This would be better with some whiskey in it.” “James, were you carrying that flask the whole time!” “Might’ve been...” “Well, pass it over then. I can’t believe you were holden out on me.”) 

Eventually, they made their way out of the market and into the hustle and bustle of the London evening streets. As they passed the steps of a church James could hear a choir singing from inside (“Mary, did you know that your baby boy would save our sons and daughters?”) and he took Lily’s hand once again and led her to one of the many bridges that crossed over the Thames. Lily leaned on the bridge with her elbows on the side wall, supporting her weight, as she looked out over the city lights. James stood behind her with his arms wrapped tight around her. 

Lily turned in his arms until they were facing each other and wrapped her arms around his neck.

“You know, I’ve been thinking.”

“Have you?”

“Christmas in London is nice but I think I’m looking forward to next year more.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, and I know we said taking the floo to work every day was too risky with Death Eaters tracking the network but I could still apparate couldn’t I?”

“You could.” James felt his eyes narrow as he looked at his wife. What was Lily getting at? Could she really be suggesting -

“So maybe we don’t have to wait for my apprenticeship to be up for us to move. Maybe we can leave the city in the new year?” 

“You want to leave London?”

“Yes, well it is too crowded and noisy, isn’t it? I think we’d be much happier in Godric’s Hollow. I mean we are there every weekend practically anyway.”

James moved his hands to grasp Lily’s face. “I’d live anywhere with you Mrs. Potter, you know that right?”

“Yes, but you’d be much happier in the country.”

James could hear the bells of Westminster Palace chime as he bent down and kissed Lily softly on the lips. Her lips were cold from the winter evening air and determined to warm her up he deepened the kiss until he felt her warm breathy sigh on his face. “I’m happiest with you. Merry Christmas, Mrs. Potter.”

“Merry Christmas, Mr. Potter.”

[happilyhertale]

Long Last Love - Aemond Targaryen x female!reader, Part 5

Summary: You are finally engaged to Aemond Targaryen. As the daughter of Daemon and Rhaenyra, you will now live in King's Landing and no longer on Dragonstone. Your marriage to Aemond is imminent, as is your life together. The relationship between Aemond and your family has never been particularly easy, but the future will show whether your love will withstand this and subsequent tensions.

Pairing: Aemond Targaryen x fem!reader

Warnings: In some parts Smut (uncle/niece) as well as violence

Author’s note: Hey you (:

This is the follow-up story to "Long Lost Love".

The story starts just before the wedding of Aemond and y/n and goes over the events of the first season hotd. However, the events are not quite similar to those in the series. English is my second language, please forgive me if I made any mistakes (:

Word count: 4k

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 6, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10, Part 11, Part 12, Part 13, Part 14, Part 15

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

Today is the day you will see your family again, whom you have not seen since your marriage to Aemond. You stand excitedly in the courtyard and look up at the sky. Your hands wander gently over your huge belly, your baby is kicking incessantly today. By now you are sure that it is not a baby, but a dragon growing inside you. You feel constant kicks, which are now so strong that your lower back hurts. To ease the pain a little, you let one hand wander to your back and try to apply some pressure, exhaling heavily. When you see carriages approaching the Red Keep. You begin to smile and slowly you walk down the stairs. Now you are standing in the courtyard, at the bottom of the stairs.

Slowly the carriages drive into the courtyard and you can't stop grinning, you are too happy to see your family. The carriages come to a halt and a servant who was waiting for the carriage to arrive announces your family, "Princess Rhaenyra, of House Targaryen, heir to the Iron Throne. And her Prince Consort, Daemon Targaryen, of House Targaryen."

You step forward as you see your mother step out of the carriage. Her eyes meet yours and she starts to smile, "My girl!"

She comes up to you and hugs you. Despite your big belly, you notice that your mother also has a small bulge under her dress. She is also pregnant. "Mother! You are pregnant!", you happily state.

She squeezes you tighter, "Yes, but only a few moons have passed since then. You will bring a new life into this world much sooner," she breaks away from the embrace and gently caresses your belly.

"And I am so happy for you!", she hugs you again.

You have to laugh slightly, "I'm happy too! But you never told me how exhausting pregnancy is"

"Well, I didn't want to scare you off before," she says with a smile.

Your father steps towards you, a slight smile on his lips. A "Daddy!" leaves your lips as he wraps you in his arms. He gently kisses the top of your head, "According to your stomach, I'd say Aemond touched you?"

"Dad!" you hit him. He laughs lightly. Your mother just shakes her head and has to suppress a smile.

You turn your head towards your mother, still in your father's arms, as you hear her speak, "Where's Aemond...? Are you the only one to greet us?"

"Aemond is, of course, on the training yard. And there is a council meeting going on right now. So yes, you will have to make do with me for the moment," you say with a slight smile.

She strokes your arm, "Is everything all right with you and Aemond...?"

"Yes, Mother. It couldn't be better... Except that I would feel better if the sweet little thing would finally leave me," gently you caress your belly.

"You won't say that again when you're in labour and the little thing is pushing out of you," you hear your father say.

"Don't scare her unnecessarily," your mother admonishes him.

"I'm just saying," you hear your father mutter.

You hear another carriage arrive and as you look up you see the carriage come to a stop and your brothers get out of the carriage. You walk up to them and grin. Jace grins at you and opens his arms, "Y/n, Looking at your belly, you seem to get too much food here!"

You hug him, "Shut up Jace."

He chuckles.

Luke steps towards you, he looks worried. You caress his cheek and hug him lightly, "Hey Luke. It'll be alright, we'll show Vaemond who owns Driftmark, okay?"

He tries to smile and nods, you hug him tighter.

Your brothers leave for the training yard shortly afterwards and you go with your parents to their chambers. You chat briefly as you head to your own chambers and your parents go to find Alicent.

When you finally reach your chambers, you exhale heavily. Slowly you cross your chambers and carefully sit down on the sofa in your chambers, wanting to close your eyes for a moment. Your lower back hurts. So you lie down and put a small pillow under your back. Your eyes are still closed and you try to find relief by breathing in and out slowly and deeply.

Slowly, your body relaxes a little, as the door to your chambers opens, but you do not open your eyes, perhaps the troublemaker will leave your chambers if he thinks you are asleep. But the wishful thinking does not come true. "Are you that unwell?" you hear Aemond whisper.

You open your eyes and nod, "I want him to come out soon".

He smiles slightly at you, "I'm sure she'll be on her way soon.... Unless she doesn't want to leave her mother's warm womb"

You sigh, "I don't want to advise him to do that"

He comes over to the sofa and you look at each other for a moment. You don't show any signs of wanting to move, you just want to rest for a moment. Slowly he lifts your feet up and sits on the sofa, your feet resting on his lap. Carefully he takes off your shoes and begins to gently massage your feet.

You just watch him as he takes care of you and tries to relieve some discomfort with his fingers. You let your head fall back and enjoy his touch. Your eyes close again. "I have already met your brothers," you hear him whisper.

You open your eyes and lift your head. Aemond meets a warning glance, "What did you do?"

He smiles and looks at you, "Nothing. Lord Vaemond intervened. I was just about to invite them for a little training session."

You just keep looking at him, "My Love.... I didn't do anything. I told you I would behave myself."

Now you smile a little, "But still, I know you and I know how it gets to you sometimes."

He props himself up against the sofa and leans over you. Gently he kisses your lips. As he begins to deepen the kiss and gently caresses your belly.

"I will have to kill you if you ever get me pregnant again. So hands off.", you murmur against his lips.

He chuckles and kisses your nose.

He lets himself fall backwards again. In a mixture of stroking and massaging, he lets his fingers wander over your calves.

"Do you feel well enough to go to the throne room?"

You look at him almost indignantly, "Of course. I'm not going to leave my brother standing there alone after all."

"He won't be there alone," Aemond sighs.

"But I don't want him to see only faces that are not exactly friendly towards him on the opposite side. At least his sister should stand there and encourage him."

He just looks at you, "Very well then. But allow me that if I notice you are getting worse, to escort you to our chambers"

You give him an annoyed look. You know that he only cares about you and you prefer that to him being a man who does not care about you at all... But still it annoys you.

On your way to the throne room, you cling to Aemond's arm. You don't want to admit it, but your back really hurts. Aemond looks at you worriedly as you exhale intermittently, but you keep walking.

You enter the throne room, your family already standing to your right, their eyes wandering to you as you enter. You smile at each other, but you see your mother looking at you anxiously, your arm rests firmly in Aemond's arm.

Before you pass your family, you will pass your half-sisters Baela and Rhaena, who are on the left with Princess Rhaenys. You smile at each other. You haven't seen them for what feels like an eternity. They had come to your wedding, but you had no real opportunity to talk to each other properly.

Vaemond Velaryon is also standing there, but you look away when your eyes meet. You have no sympathy for him whatsoever. You think it impertinent that he should take advantage of your grandsire's weak moment, as well as the uncertainty as to whether Lord Corlys will survive his recent injuries, and attempt to steal Driftmark. Driftmark belongs to your brother, to your family.

Aemond leads you on to Alicent, Aegon and Helaena.

Alicent also looks at you, smiling but worried. You smile at her. Aemond stands with you behind the others, his arm firmly around your waist.

You see Otto Hightower enter the throne room. You have nothing personal against him, but somehow you don't trust him. He now stands in front of the throne and begins to give a speech. You don't like the sight of him standing in front of the throne, and you can see from the look on your father's face that he doesn't like it either.

You only pay attention to Otto's speech when you hear the words Driftmark. Because your grandsire is not in a position to deal with this matter, Otto feels it is his responsibility to do so.

Otto settles down on the throne, your expression darkening. As your gaze returns to your family, you see your mother smile at you. You return the smile and nod to her. Then you notice Aemond kissing your cheek, he has also noticed how your mood has changed because of Otto.

You smile briefly at him as you hear Otto, "The crown will now hear the petitions. Ser Vaemond of House Velaryon."

Lord Vaemond steps forward and lets his gaze roam to your brother Luke. Your hand clenches into a fist. You would like to stand protectively in front of your little brother and spit at Vaemond's feet. But probably Aemond's patience with you would then really be at an end.

Vaemond steps forward and stands just in front of the throne. You see that your father is watching him closely and you know the expression on his face. His patience seems to be on the verge of breaking.

Vaemond addresses his speech directly to Alicent, "My Queen." and then turns directly to Otto, "My Lord Hand."

God how you loathe Vaemond.

"The history of our noble houses extends beyond the Seven Kingdoms to the day of Old Valyra."

You snort softly. Aemond immediately gives you a look followed by a light chuckle.

"For as long as House Targaryen has ruled the skies, House Velaryon has ruled the seas. When the Doom fell on Valyria, our houses became the last of their kind. Our forebearers came to this new land, knowing that were they to fail, it would mean the end to their bloodlines and their name."

You notice your father giving your mother a look and she nods, barely perceptible. This makes you kind of nervous. But you turn your gaze back to Vaemond.

"I have spent my entire life on Driftmark defending my brother's seat. I am Lord Corlys's closest kin, his own blood."

Angrily, you shake your head slightly. Aemond tightens his grip around your waist.

"The true, unimpeachable blood of House Velaryon runs through my veins."

Suddenly your mother speaks, "As it does in my sons, the offspring of Laenor Velaryon. If you cared so much about your house's blood, Ser Vaemond, you would not be so bold as to supplant its rightful heir. No, you only speak for yourself and for your own ambition."

As Alicent suddenly interjects, you look over at her, "You will have chance to make your own petition, Princess Rhaenyra. Do Ser Vaemond the courtesy of allowing his to be heard." Lord Vaemond turns to your mother, grinning. She looks angry.

You look just as angry at Aemond, but he only shakes his head slightly. Again you snort.

Now Vaemond speaks directly to your mother, "What do you know of Velaryon blood, Princess?"

But she does not dignify him with a glance.

"I could cut my veins and show it to you and you still wouldn't recognise it. This is about the future and survival of my house, not yours."

He turns back in your direction, "My Queen, my Lord Hand. This is a matter of blood, not ambition."

When you notice your brothers giving Aemond looks and as you look at Aemond, you see him grinning wickedly. He lightly yet firmly gets your elbow in the side. His eyes fall on you and you shake your head in warning.

"I place the continuation of the survival of my house and my line above all. I humbly put myself before you as my brother's successor.... the Lord of Driftmark and Lord of the Tides."

"Thank you Ser Vaemond," chimes in Otto Hightower.

Vaemond casts another appraising glance over his shoulder in your mother's direction and again you notice Aemond's grip tighten around you.

Your mother nods, barely perceptibly, as Otto asks her to speak for your brother Luke now.

She steps forward, exhaling in annoyance for a moment. Before her gaze turns to Otto, she looks over at you again briefly.

"If I am to grace this farce, with some answer, I will start by reminding the court that nearly 20 years ago, in this very..."

Everything stops.

The heavy door to the throne room opens and all eyes turn to the door to see who is interrupting. As the guard announces your grandsire, "King Viserys of House Targaryen, the First of His Name, King of the Andals, and the Rhoynar, and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, and Protector of the Realm."

All is silent and everyone looks towards the door, startled. You reach for Amond's hand, he holds it tightly. Your grandsire stands in the doorway, visibly straining. A walking stick supports him and with great effort he strides forward. He walks very slowly and it seems as if every heavy breath of his can be heard. No one dares to speak a word. Otto rises from his throne and as he comes down to you, you notice him and Lord Vaemond exchanging startled glances. But startled in a different way to the rest of those present.

As your grandsire steps closer to you, you see him stop, he gives your mother a long look. Your father stands in the background, but his gaze is full of concern and lowered.

He strides on, groaning again and again with exertion. But when, after an interminable time, he arrives at the steps of the throne, he looks at Otto, "I will sit the throne today," you almost hear him whisper. Otto replies with a, "Your Grace".

At the steps he comes to a stop, it seems too tiring for him, you look helplessly at Aemond. You see concern on his face too, but he continues to hold you.

A guard approaches your grandsire and wants to help him, but he only replies, "I will be fine. I will be fine."

When he has made it up a few steps, his crown falls down. You bury your face in the crook of Aemond's neck, he holds you in his arms. You hate to see him suffer like this. As you look back towards the throne, you see your father standing at your grandsire's side.

But he doesn't seem to have noticed who is standing there at first, as he says, "I said I'm fine".

But when he looks up, he sees your father, his brother. Your father must be encouraging him to go on, or at least you think he is, because your grandsire gives him a barely perceptible nod and continues walking. Your father carries his crown and helps him up the stairs.

When your grandsire finally makes it to the throne, your father stands before him. They look at each other briefly as your father slowly puts the crown back on his head.

Your father descends the steps, your eyes meet, you see the worry in his gaze.

He stands by your family's side again. Your mother also stands by Luke's side again.

Your grandsire exhales heavily a few times and groans briefly every now and then. Everyone is waiting for him to say something.

"I must... admit... my confusion. I do not understand why petitions are being heard over a settled succession. The only present... who might offer keener insight into Lord Corlys's wishes is Princess Rhaenys", each word coming out with great difficulty.

All eyes now turn to Princess Rhaenys.

"Indeed, your Grace," her soft voice rings out.

Again you notice Vaemon's uncomfortable glances, but this time they follow Princess Rhaenys.

She steps forward until she is standing before your grandsire, "It was my husband's will that Driftmark pass through Ser Laenor to his trueborn son.... Lucerys Velaryon. His mind never changed. Nor did my support of him. As a matter of fact, the Princess Rhaenyra has just informed me of her desire to marry her sons Jace and Luke to Lord Corlys's granddaughters, Baela and Rhaena. A proposal to which I heartily agree."

You look joyfully at your brothers and they nod at you. But not everyone seems so pleased. Vaemond and Otto look visibly irritated. You turn to Aemond, but he only raises his eyebrow and snorts slightly. Again he has your elbow lightly in his side.

As you hear your grandsire speak again, "Well.... the matter is settled. Again. I hereby reaffirm Prince Lucerys of House Velaryon as heir to Driftmark..."

Once again you notice your parents exchanging glances. "... the Driftwood Throne, and the next Lord of the Tides."

Your mother looks visibly relieved. As Vaemond suddenly steps forward, "You break law.... and centuries of tradition to install your daughter as heir. Yet you dare tell me... who deserve to inherit the name Velaryon."

You stiffen, feeling uneasy. Aemond looks at you briefly, but immediately looks back at Vaemond.

"No. I will not allow it."

Your father, on the other hand, looks almost amused. When your grandsire speaks up again, "Allow it? Do not forget yourself, Vaemond."

Suddenly Vaemond shouts out, "That is no true Velaryon!". He points his finger at Luke.

Aemond takes a barely perceptible step forward and his arm is now protectively across your belly.

"And certainly no nephew of mine," Vaemond turns back to your grandsire.

You hear your mother instruct your brothers to go to their chambers before addressing Vaemond, "You have said enough."

"Lucerys is my true-born grandson. And you..." your grandsire suddenly chimes in.

"... are no more than the second son of Driftmark."

Vaemond looks up at your grandsire angrily, "You... may run your house as you see fit... but you will not decide the future of mine."

You look at Aemond worriedly and take hold of his arm, which still lies protectively in front of your belly. He, however, only looks at Vaemond. You take another step forward and stand next to Aemond again.

"My house survived the Doom, and a thousand tribulations besides! And gods be damned...", Vaemond turns back in Luke's direction, still standing at your mother's side.

"... I will not see it ended on the account of this...", a pause filled with silence follows. Your hand seeks Aemonds and he holds it tightly. When your father dryly calls on Vaemond, "Say it."

And you can tell by his tone that he is not in a joking mood. Silence follows again, only your grandsire's heavy breathing can be heard.

Vaemond turns directly to your father, "Her children... are bastards!!!"

Your eyes grow wide and at that moment Vaemond turns in your direction, pointing his finger at you, Aemond immediately places himself a little in front of you and at the same time pushes you gently but firmly half behind him. His other hand rests on the pommel of his sword.

"But you are the greatest mockery! White hair, purple eyes! Because your mother committed adultery! Slept with her uncle! And you are also legitimised to call yourself a Targaryen! But you are also nothing but a bastard. All because the King can't control anything and your mother is a whore!!!"

You are seized with rage, you take a step forward, but Aemond pushes you back, wanting to step forward himself, his sword already half drawn.

As your grandsire stands up heavily and intervenes, "I... will have your tongue for that!"

Until suddenly a sword is brandished.

With one blow Vaemon's head is severed. His body falls to the floor, half his skull falls to the ground next to it. Screams echo through the hall. Your father stands behind Vaemond and leans on his sword.

Aemond now stands completely in front of you, protecting you, and you reach for his arm. You tremble a little.

"He can keep his tongue," your father says dryly. As Otto suddenly shouts, "Disarm him!"

But your father emotionlessly wipes his sword on his cloak, "No need."

Suddenly there are groans from your grandsire again, everyone looks up at him. He falls back on his throne and Alicent, who was at Helaena's side, runs up to him, "Call the maesters!"

Your mother goes up to him as well, "Father?"

"Please my Love, you must take something for the pain." begs Alicent as he falls weakened against her. But your grandsire is stubborn, "I will not cloud my mind, I must put things right."

A guard supports him and escorts him out of the throne room. A maester joins and supports the guard.

Alicent addresses you, "Please... go to your chambers.... I will see you tonight"

You cannot really respond, but Aemond puts his arm around you and leads you out of the throne room.

He leads you on, up to your chambers, you can't tell if Aemond talked to you on the way, you are paralysed. But Aemond is preoccupied with his own thoughts. He is relieved that Daemon has intervened. He is not sure how far he could have held you back. Nor would he have liked to leave your side. But he would have protected you at all costs, he would have struck Vaemond down in the throne room.

When you arrive in your chambers, Aemond turns you to him, holding your face gently in his hands, "Are you all right?"

You nod.

"Please don't take anything he said to heart. Promise me?"

You smile slightly. He first gently brushes his nose against yours and then kisses you. He breaks the kiss and lets his forehead lean against yours, "If Daemon hadn't done it, I would have killed him."

You are still smiling. You are shocked at what has just happened. First you were called a bastard, then Vaemond was beheaded, a bit much for one evening. Just as you are about to say something, you feel a sharp sting. You gasp and grab your stomach.

Aemond looks at you in panic, "What's wrong?"

You breathe heavily, "He's very active and.... just kicking..."

Aemond leads you to the sofa and helps you to sit down slowly.

"He, mmhm?"

You smile as Aemond walks into the adjoining bathroom. After a short while, he returns, holding a bottle. You have to chuckle for a moment. When the slightest bulge was visible on your belly, Aemond set off for the maesters. He has commissioned an oil that is supposed to be good for your skin. And since then he has been massaging it into your belly regularly. He kneels down in front of you and carefully opens your dress. He pushes your vest back over your belly. He pours a small amount of oil on his palms, briefly rubs his palms together and then begins to massage your belly.

"So a boy?"

You chuckle and nod, "I'm telling you, he's wild. That's not a girl."

He clicks his tongue, "Well, like I told you, our girl just has the temperament of a dragon."

Now you have to laugh. He smiles and continues to gently massage your belly.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

Tag list

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[dumbass-duo-showdown]

Guys I am not counting any more 911 votes or treasure planet votes until the form closes

[bread--quest]

im not entirely sure why i was thinking about this last night but small town politics are so wild. my town specifically just had an mayoral election that sounds like a fucking sitcom setup

the incumbent mayor was a guy. just...kind of a normal dude, as a lot of small-town mayors are. my dad has been in several plays with him and says he's kind of a ham and a bit annoying to work with. that's all i know about this guy

the guy running against him was. our local elvis impersonator. not that he sings (to my knowledge), he just walks around with a pompadour and vaguely elvis-like clothing and everyone calls him elvis. it is also, apparently, his legal name, because he ran under it. anyway his two major platforms were a) tackling the housing crisis and homelessness in town (good, and makes sense considering i'm pretty sure he is or was homeless for a time) and b) getting a Walmart in town (there have been debates over getting walmart since it was first proposed in the 70s, and somehow it is STILL a debate even though WALMART RESCINDED THE OFFER LIKE TWO YEARS AFTER MAKING IT and THE CITY COUNCIL PASSED ZONING ORDINANCES MAKING IT BASICALLY IMPOSSIBLE ANYWAY. STOP TRYING TO MAKE WALMART HAPPEN. ITS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN).

the incumbent mayor's main platform was "come on guys. youre not seriously going to vote for elvis right"

it should also be noted that until elvis announced his candidacy it was uncontested. these were the only two candidates

in the end elvis did not win but he got something like 600 votes. the former mayor/current city councilor/town facebook page moderator/town busybody thought this was a very bad sign for the integrity of local politics. i think its fucking hilarious and im so mad that i wasnt there to vote

[hazel-of-sodor]

What's Lost is Found

Ch.19 Embrace

Other Stories

Other Chapters

Tendrils shot forward and the younger 47xx yelped as she was dragged clear off the rails and into her older sister's embrace, her crew diving to safety. The Uman crews just laughed as they helped them up.

"I thought you scrapped." Screech rumbled, tears of midnight black falling onto her runningboard with an acidic sizzle.

Tyto laughed unbelievingly, "You thought I was scrapped. We saw you scrapped!!"

"They didn't do a good enough job."

"Obviously." Tyto laughed, joyful tears were streaming down her face. "We thought you were gone forever."

Abbey was the first to catch on. "We?" She asked.

"Oh right!" Tyto smiled up at Screech. "Yes, Flying Scotsman rescued me and Eagle, along with several other Westerners from Cashmoore's, before taking us to Caomhnóir."

"Caomhnóir... Is real?" Enid asked, not quite daring to hope.

"Yep!" Tyto chirped, "he's good too. Scotsman was only able to give him a few hours notice but he had places for all of us."

Screech reluctantly set her back down onto the rails in front of her, although she didn't let go yet.

"Eagle and I are North Western engines now." She said proudly. "Our controller has already announced he doesn't plan to follow the modernization plan."

"The Other Railway can't be happy about that," Becca observed.

3219 snorted, "They really aren't, but the island has a history of home rule, and the Suddery council is backing Sir Topham Hatt."

"You are safe then?" Screech asked softly.

"As safe as we can be," Tyto said happily.

"Then I am content."

 "Sir Topham Hatt is trying to get another of our siblings, but the Other Railway is being stubborn," Tyto explained.

"Same with us." Enid chimed in, "We've been trying to buy more engines for months, but we're blocked at every turn."

Tyto frowned, "We'll tell the others so they can pass it on to Caomhnóir, he may be able to help."

"Why not tell him yourself?" Blaidd asked curiously.

"I'm not sure which engine he is," Tyto admitted. "...or even if they are a he. Some of the others I've met said they were saved by a female engine. Honestly, it might be multiple engines."

"You didn't see them?" Enid said disappointedly.

"Only for a moment," Tyto explained, "and even then I'm not certain. I was barely awake when they directed Duck, a 57xx that's friends with Caomhnóir, to take me and Tyto to the works. Besides it's better if I don't know."

"You can't give away their identity if you don't know it." Una guessed. 

"Exactly." Tyto nodded grimly, "the Other Railway is desperate to catch them. None of us that were put back into service know who they are at first. I think a few have since found out, but they feign ignorance either way."

3219 nodded, "One of the Other Railway's inspectors was almost killed last month. He tried to set a trap for them but almost got crushed. If Thomas had not been there..."

"Thomas?" Screech asked with a frown, the name was oddly familiar.

"Our No.1," Tyto explained, "Tiny little tank engine, like smaller than a 1400 small. He's got a little branchline running up into the hills. Cheeky to everyone, but a good sort with an almost Western work ethic."

"Ah," Screech said in realization, "My driver used to read some books about him to their daughter."

Tyto snorted, "Don't mention those to him. He had an accident a few years back when a cleaner fiddled with his controls. He ended up stuck in a house and needed his buffer beam and runningboard rebuilt. For some reason the author of those books wrote it like the whole thing was Thomas's fault."

"I take it he's not the author's biggest fan," Abbey said with a grin.

2319 laughed, "Apparently he wouldn't speak to him for a month after that. In any case, he barely snatched the inspector out of the way in time. The Fat Controller was furious."

"Fat Controller?" Miss Morgan asked.

"Sir Topham Hatt." Tyto clarified, "Apparently the engines called his dad that and it passed to him when he took over."

She frowned, "he really was angry at that incident. The North Western hasn't had a human death on the railway in decades and that was almost ruined by the inspector."

"You said human deaths," Screech noted.

"Trucks," Tyto and 2319 said in unison.

"Ah."

[mulitfandomshipper100]

Author Notes: PSA: I have no idea what fishing is actually like, I just write for the plot aka “Elenaomi” . Since there are so few fanfics of Elenaomi I’m making my own, but only available on Tumblr.

Chapter 1

The Boat

Looking out at the sea Naomi spied a net the crew forgot to haul up. After securing the net, fish tumbled onto the deck. The next day Naomi set out again with her crew until the sun set. Sailing was easy for Naomi, but it got lonely sometimes. All day she would hear the crew talk about their spouses and parters; and families back at shore. Don’t get her wrong, having her Dad to sail back to every day helped, but she waned to go on grand adventures and see the world!! And maybe… one day settle down; have a family someday.

What she didn’t know was that her future wife would come barging into her life in the form of the royal princess. Naomi started her day as she usually would. Eating breakfast, changing into work clothes, and helping to prepare the ship. As the squeaking wheels of the yet to be delivered fish rolled down the pier she heard two locals talking about the boats that kept disappearing; likely someone was stealing them, but no one had seen anything yet. The royal guard had found nothing for days on end… , but there was nothing that could be done.

Spotting the huge dark brown sign “Trading post of Avalor” Naomi walked in. “Same order today Naomi?” the owner said. “Yes, of course” Naomi replied her lips upturned slightly. “Have you heard about the third new ship that was stolen in last 24 hours?” Jamie said with worried tone. “What!? How!? Naomi stuttered, “I need to let my father know right away!!” She sprinted out the back door and up the stair.

“Dad, another ship’s gone missing” Naomi said, breathless from running all the way there. “I’m with the princess, Naomi.” Her father scolded her. The princess? Naomi thought, what is she doing out here in the port? Her train of thought abruptly stopped when she saw the princess’s eyes. Amber brown eyes like the color of a ship that had been freshly painted. She didn’t realize how beautiful the princess was until that moment, but that was to be expected, she was a princess after-all she reasoned. After helping Elena save the boat and her sister, and the daring adventure of riding a jaquin, she was exhausted. She wanted to sleep, but the royal crowing of princess Elena was that night and her father would expect her to be there with him, along with many other guests.

Naomi arrived at the ball in a purple and pink dress. She had trouble picking the right out fit because she wanted to look stunning for the ceremony. “Hey! Naomi nice to see you here! Mateo greeted cheerily. Hi, I didn’t know wizards were invited to these kinds of things.” Naomi jumped! She wasn’t ready for the laughter behind her back. “I’m glad I put you on the grand council! At least now I have someone to balance out Esteban’s humor” Elena said sarcastically with a smirk. Naomi felt her heartbeat speed up at the compliment and her face flush a light red. Naomi was about to thank the crowned princess for the compliment, when it was announced that the palace was closing down for the night.

No one noticed Naomi’s reaction to the compliment, except her father watching with a keen eye and serious expression. “Naomi what do think about the crowned princess” Nomi’s father said with a neutral voice. “Dad, She has a name you know”, Naomi said teasingly. “I think Elena will bring a new age of peace a prosperity to Avalor, with the right people by her side” she said thoughtfully. That was all her father needed to hear, to see that Naomi had built a strong friendship with the princess. It seemed like Naomi did not realize the strong feelings she had for the princess, and only time would tell whether or not it would bloom into something more, he thought to himself smiling. “Well, Elena is young and has much to learn, but I’m sure with your guidance she will make a great Queen”, Naomi’s father replied smiling.

Laying in bed that night, Naomi couldn’t stop thinking of the grand adventure she had and how she felt excited to start her new job as part of the grand council. She still felt nervous about work with the princess, but maybe that was because of how beautiful she is; Naomi thought casually.

Author Notes:

Let me know how I did with the first chapter. I don’t know when I’ll finish the second one because school is really busy for me rn.

Comments are really appreciated! Sorry for any mistakes in my writing, I’m seriously the worst writer you’ll ever read. (Feel free to repost, with credit to me of course.)

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Thursday, November 21 - Friday, November 22

Buffy: Were you born this big a pain in the ass? Spike: What can I tell you, baby? I've always been bad.

~~Fool for Love~~

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

Blurring the Lines (Buffy/Spike, PG-13) by veronyxk84

Rollin' Up That Hill (Crossover with DC Comics, T) by Ellen_Brand

Doyle is the real hero (Cordelia/Doyle, T) by DanaNick82

Never Fade Away (Buffy/Angel, NR) by elejahfanfic

[Chaptered Fiction]

Winters into Summers, Chapter 1 (OC, NR) by Iris_Dietrich

Buffy & Angel: the Series { Part One }, Chapter 1 (Buffy/Angel, M) by crowncitydreams

Whiplash, Chapter 12 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Ninereeds

Lucidity, Chapter 4 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Soulburnt

Loop, Chapter 4 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by simmony

The Beast Inside, Chapter 2 (Buffy/Spike, R) by MnM

Little Light, Chapter 18 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Melme1325

Stiff Pole, Chapter 8 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by scratchmeout

True Love Won't Desert You, Chapter 7 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by CheekyKitten

Perfect Clarity, Chapter 10 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Joan963z, Ragini

Unholy Matrimony, Chapter 15 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by CheekyKitten

Bend in the Road, Chapter 4 (Crossover with The Morning Show, FR13) by AsarStar

Banacek.Alexander, Chapter 19 (Crossover with Banacek, FR21) by xanfu

What the Drabble? Vol. 2, Chapter 92 (Buffy/Spike, PG-13) by VeroNyxK84

Eyes Forward, Monster, Chapter 9 (Buffy/Spike, AO) by Desicat

Keepsakes, Chapter 70 (Buffy/Spike, PG-13) by violettathepiratequeen

Writing a haiku for every episode as I rewatch, Part 12 (sfw) by Senorpuddin

[Images, Audio & Video]

Artwork:Five by five by fuffylyn

Manips:Brave new world by revello-drive-1630

Manip:Collage #244 by thedecadentraven

Gifset:Every Tara look: S5E08 Shadow by lovebvffys

Gifset:Buffy Summers in Living Conditions by detectivedawnsummers

Gifset:Rewatch > Halloween by creulsummer

Gifset:buffy & angel + each other's lap by ptieuca

Gifset:Katharine Towne as Sunday by 5bi5

Video: Willow & Xander - Like a Prayer by TheOverLookedOne

[Recs & In Search Of]

lost fan video (spike & angel) by sixheart

[Community Announcements]

One Prompt Several Writers by thecrazyknight

[Fandom Discussions]

[6x11 and 6x12 placement] by lesbianmarrow

jane espenson has such a distinct writing style on buffy by lesbianmarrow

[Dead Man's Party critique] by tvserie-s-world

[Spike's furniture] by mybloodyvampire

"Boom Studios Drops Buffy (and Firefly) Licenses" by multiple authors

BOOM! Studios Has Let The Rights To The Buffyverse & Firefly Universe Go. by multiple authors

Why didn't Buffy's stunt double try to at least seem like Buffy? by multiple authors

How would Angel investigation have handled Glory, Bad Willow and the first by multiple authors

What was the first time in the series did Buffy and Giles become a surrogate father and daughter relationship? by multiple authors

Was it purposeful essentially writing the Dad out of the series? by multiple authors

Last remaining hours of Human Darla 2.0, singing, crying, then dying by multiple authors

Normal again has kinda ruined it for me? by multiple authors

What was (imho) missing in Buffy Season 7: A more in-depth look at the Watchers' Council by multiple authors

How Many Of The Bands Performing At The Bronze Are Made Up For The Show? by multiple authors

Who turned Harmony? by multiple authors

What do you consider the craziest episode intro? by multiple authors

What's something you dislike about your favorite Buffyverse character? by multiple authors

Is it supposed to be implied that Willow mind wiped Tara multiple times already before we see her do it in "All The Way"? by multiple authors

Just finished another rewatch and there are some thoughts I want to share by multiple authors

An excellent kick off! | S3 E1 “Anne” by multiple authors

Just finished my first rewatch of the entire show… by multiple authors

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