#everyone's such a mess but i love them <3

[anki-of-beleriand]

A Heart Made Of Glass ch.15

Summary: Ten years ago you left Wanda and the Avengers to heal your broken heart. You never stopped being a hero, just as you never stopped being in love with her. But life had to go on.

Now, after all that time, she is back and with her is a young woman needing help and an enemy that may not be as afraid as Wanda to lay a claim on you.

Pairings: Wanda Maximoff x Powered!F!Reader - Scarlet Witch x PoweredF!Reader - Past Wanda Maximoff x Vision - CarolxF!Reader

Warnings: Angst, drama, mentions of cheating, fluff, violence, smut, Switch!Reader, internalize homophobia, hurt, comfort, Wanda being a complete mess, anger management issues, jealousy, Requited/Unrequited love, idiots in love, swearing, mentions of alcohol. More tags as the story progess.

Author's Note: This story is a continuation of Dirty Little Secret I was really surprised at the response I got for the story, I did all the tags you guys ask for but if I forgot someone please do not hesitate to tell me. Thank you for the support.

Reader has some decisions to make, Wanda is just confused, and things are finally looking up for the both of them.

Please, do remember English is no my mother tongue so forgive my grammar, spelling and funny mistakes.

Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Chapter 4 - Chapter 5 - Chapter 6 - Chapter 7 - Chapter 8 - Chapter 9 - Chapter 10 - Chapter 11 Chapter 12 - Chapter 13 - Chapter 14

Chapter 15

From Kamar-Taj

Time didn't stop after Wanda left.

Days and nights came by without any significant changes, the different agencies that had come to help during the dome incident had long gone and you were left alone once more. 

Tony had stayed behind long enough to ensure you and the others would be fine. And Monica had stayed to keep Carol company before going back to her normal duties; life in general went back to what it was.

Like the waters of the ocean surrounding Ulsteinvik, there was only calmness and the people in the city had forgotten and forgiven the small disruption in their lives. You were still as welcome, as the first time you got into the city to help those in need. 

The holidays had been welcomed by the inhabitants of the city with fireworks and a party that lasted a full weekend. You had enjoyed the admiration and sheer happiness on America's face whenever she went from one stand of food to the other, when she got in contact with teens her age and soon found herself living a life she hadn't enjoyed so far.

A bell sounded to your left, the door of the restaurant opened with a twirl of cold wind sneaking inside the place. You shifted on the chair leaning against the wall, your eyes following with amusement the discussion America started with Yelena. 

“She is unbelievable, you would think she is the same age as America.” Natasha snorted when Yelena slapped the table pointing to the street, soon the both of them left to prove a point missed by you and Natasha.

“I think they like to mess with one another far too much.” You shrugged, grabbing the glass of wine you had been drinking and taking another ling sip. 

It wasn't until then you noticed you had been left alone with Natasha. The Widow smirked, quivering a brow at you, her hands placing themselves on the table with her eyes never leaving yours, you knew what was about to come. For more than two weeks everyone had been trying to get a hold of you and the letter and know exactly what the young witch had said to you.

So far, you had been successful in pretending that letter never happened, making sure you were never alone with Natasha or Yelena.

“Well, are you going to tell me?” Natasha asked, leaning back on the chair, her clear eyes studying you. “Whatever it was, it really had an effect on you. Should I be worried?”

You exhaled placing your closed hands on the table, the steam coming from your mug covering your chin. Natasha scrutinised your posture and your facial expressions, it was something she had been doing in the last couple of weeks knowing that whatever had happened with Wanda was still affecting you in ways you didn't want to. You had been standing on the outlines, trying to disappear behind your shadows while zoning out whenever everyone was sharing light conversation at the dinner table or a mission was being shared. 

“Wanda told me what she did after the funeral,” you started the story, your head tilting to the side while your hand made a gesture to the waitress for the woman to bring another round of coffee.

“It is a rather long story, Tasha.” You smiled when the other woman raised a single eyebrow at you.

“So I see, I'm going to finally get the full story? The real one?”

You chuckled, shrugging while taking a long sip from the cup.

“She went back to the compound, went through my room until she came across the small trunk I kept in the wardrobe.”

You could see as realisation hit Natasha in a second, her eyes went wide with a slack jaw marked by the disbelief of what Wanda found inside that place. You nodded smiling bitterly at her 

“Yeah, she found everything and then, she just wanted to see Westview and the area where the place was supposed to be.”

From there you told Natasha everything you heard from Wanda and whatever blank spaces you filled in with some digging. You knew Tony had helped Wanda at some point, then she was contacted by Strange to help with the case of America which led her to your doorstep. Even after that, it was obvious something had happened, and that was the moment in which Agatha entered the story.

Agatha had worked in the shadows lurking Wanda to the spot she had been looking for I'm Westview. She had made it possible for Wanda to break down, with the enchantment she had placed before Wanda's arrival, she had worked her way into the fantasy guaranteeing that she could control some aspects of the fantasy.

Pietro and Vision had been some of them.

“Do you believe them?” Natasha finally asked, she squinted her eyes reading your reaction at her question. “It sounds convenient that Agatha could only bring dead people, so Visions being there was a coincidence meant to manipulate you. Convenient.”

The door of the café opened and closed again, the conversation around your table was suddenly louder than it had been moments ago. You scolded thinking over what Natasha was just saying, it was something you had thought but it was far too elaborate for Wanda to just make it up.

Right?

Besides, Agatha did admit to the manipulation. Your eyes hardened, you clenched your jaw tilting your head until your eyes focused on the world outside. Whatever doubts growing in your mind stopped when you remember childish laughter and then non-stop babbling from the twins.

“They look like me.” You mumbled turning to Natasha. “You should have seen them, Tasha. Billy and Tommy have some resemblance to me and Wanda, their eyes, the colour of the hair, the smile, some mannerisms…”

“Is this why you have been acting weird since you came back?” Natasha leaned over the table, she didn't miss your behaviour in the last couple of weeks her concern for you had been latent at all times but she had always respected your space allowing you to just come to her to talk.

You purse your lips grabbing a napkin, the frown deepened with your eyes flickering between confusion and nostalgia.

“Partially.” 

It was so easy to pretend you were still angry at hurt by what happened ten years ago, to just turn your back on the young woman you had met on a mission angry and scared that ended up becoming your life. Never before or after her did you feel the same for anyone, not even Carol. And when Wanda came back, hurt, scared, tired and asking for help your heart trembled with the same love you thought you had buried in the past. 

But love was not enough.

“She is still in love with you.” It was a statement, Natasha drank her tea glancing out of the window. “I don't think she never stopped loving you.”

“Love is for children.” You smirked amused by the roll of Natasha's eyes.

“True, but sometimes love should be enough.”

“It's never enough.” You leaned back scratching the back of your neck. “I could experience first hand what it would be like to be with her.”

Natasha softened at your words, she heard as you narrated every single detail of what you lived in the other universe. How you became a parent to the children that seemed to love you even though you were a different mom to them. How your other self would glance at Wanda and how that Wanda would look at you.

For the first time ever since everything happened you opened up about your fears, your hopes, and your wishes. It hadn't been easy to come to the conclusion of what you really desired, of what you really needed. But, here you were, pouring your heart out to Natasha, the only woman apart from Yelena that could beat some sense into you.

“What did the letter say?” Natasha finally asked, you hesitated before putting the letter from your pocket and handing it to the other woman.

“That love should be enough to start again.” You replied, focusing your attention on the people walking down the street. Natasha concentrated,reading the letter left by Wanda on the day she went away. 

Dear Y/N,

I’m not good with words, and I don't even know how to say everything I wish to tell you. My words had been trapped inside my head for over a decade, and I wasn't sure if approaching you with them was a wise thing to do. I knew of your anger towards me, and I knew you were probably feeling a hatred I didn't want to see in your eyes. I just couldn't deal with you not looking at me with love and happiness, the way it used to be.

I made many mistakes. But the biggest one was to let you go.

I asked for forgiveness once, but I wanted to say it once more.

Please, my love, forgive my weakness and my indecision. I should have never acceded to what was easy, to what my parents would have wanted, to what everyone was expecting of me. I know this doesn't make it any less stupid or hurtful, and that I should have never hurt you in such a way.

You are my world, and ever since you’ve been gone I have been so lost.

But I push myself to continue because I cannot give up, I have to discover my worth to be able to reach out to you once more.

I don't want to keep going knowing you are out there and that I am not with you, and I don't want to live with the past above my shoulders afraid of at least tried to be with you. After what we lived in these last week's I realized, I don't want to.

I understand if you are no longer interested, and that you already have someone else in your life. If that's the case, I would step aside but be there for you as a friend.

If not, then…I won't give up on you. I love you, I am still so much in love with you that sometimes it is hard to breathe and my chest twisted painfully knowing you and I could be…in another time, in another universe.

I will leave, not because I want to, but because I need to.

But I will wait for you, if this is what you want.

Love should be enough for now, right? This time around I promise you I won't let you go without a fight, my heart is already yours, Y/N, it has been for more than a decade. Please, just…give us a chance.

With love,

Wanda M.

Silence followed Natasha just as she placed the letter on the table. The only sounds breaking into their shared space were those of cutlery and low conversation in other tables, everyone was oblivious to what the two women had been sharing and even the weight of the circumstances leading them to the situation they were in at the moment.

You rested your chin on the back of your hand, your eyes dancing around the streets following patterns with your mind going back to the letter. You had learnt it's contents a long time ago, ever since Yelena gave you the letter. 

“The only one that can do something about this is you, you know that, right?”

“I know.” You faced Natasha, your lips curving upwards. 

“I've been with you all this time, Y/N.” Natasha chose her words with care, never once letting go of your stare. “I've seen the good and the bad, I've seen you fighting against your own pain and becoming the woman you are right now…and I have seen Wanda as well, she wasn't as lucky as you were.”

“I know.” You whispered, Natasha offered a tender smile placing a hand on top of yours. 

“I want you to be happy.” Natasha squeezed your hand winking. “I think it will take time but, perhaps, a friendship is not a bad idea.”

You opened your eyes at those words, your heart leaping inside your chest.

“You think…it is possible?”

“It's what you want, isn't it?”

You didn't answer, but if you were honest with yourself, it was what you wanted and what you had already decided to do. You were still afraid, going back to Wanda would it mean to face a past that was not completely erased and buried, and it was also a chance of falling harder than ever and not being able to go back from these emotions anymore. But, now that you knew what could happen, you couldn't say no to just give her and yourself a chance.

Before anything else could be done or said a tap on the window called your attention, Yelena and America were grinning through the window pointing to some bags they had on their hands. You snorted turning to Natasha who was still looking at you with tenderness.

“I guess we should go.”

“Let's go, the .”

Natasha didn't ask, and you didn't elaborate, but the both of you had come to the same conclusion and now it was a matter of time for you to step into the road leading to Wanda Maximoff.

________

She could hear the shower running, the sound of your voice singing a random song from your playlist. Carol smiled, closing the door of the room behind her, her footsteps taking her to the bed where she saw your clothes scattered around the bed. The blond-haired woman went to pick them up, thinking about the domesticity of her life in recent weeks.

The whole fiasco with Wanda had made her feel insecure, Carol had seen the conflict in your eyes but as soon as the other woman had been out of the picture it was easier for you to go back to Carol. It had not been easy, and Carol had been patient enough to know that it was time for her to make the proposal.

It was something the both of you had talked about before, Carol still had a duty to the Galaxy and she would be more than happy to share her travels with you.

Carol grabbed your jacket, her eyes flickering around until they fell on the white envelope inside your pocket. Without thinking too much about it, she grabbed the envelope looking at its contests before sitting down to read the letter.

The warm water rolling down your back felt heavenly, you lifted your face to the shower while letting the notes of the song overwhelmed your senses. It had been a long day, America was about to start school once more and Yelena was supposed to leave for New York the following week 

Your conversation with Natasha left your soul lighter, while your heart trembled with anticipation of what you would do. A part of you knew what should be your next action, while another part dread the conversation you needed to have with Carol Danvers.

When the both of you started the relationship, you never left space for romance. It was physical more than emotional, yet Carol had become a close friend and someone you could trust with your life, it was only fair for you to be honest with Carol. You didn't know what would happen with Wanda, but Carol was too emotionally involved with you for you to just leave things the way they were.

You excited the bathroom with a towel covering your body, your hands stopped midair just as your eyes fell on the woman sitting on your bed. 

“Carol! Hey, I didn't expect you here so soon, I thought you were with Monica.”

Carol winced, lowering her gaze, she pressed her lips together before facing you. You cocked your head, blinking slowly at the seriousness from the other woman.

“She had an important meeting, it didn't make sense for me to stay behind.” Carol stood up, her hand holding a familiar envelope.

Your eyes opened slightly, your eyebrows shooting upwards while the other woman stretched her hand in your direction.

“I never have a chance with you,” she stated, you opened your mouth ready to say something but the other woman shook her head. Tears welling up in her eyes.

“No, don't say anything, I know.” Carol shook her head looking away, “you told me, hell even Natasha told me, but I just thought she had hurt you enough for you to stop feeling anything for her.”

The conversation was turning out to be something uncomfortable with you dressed only on a towel. You tried to hold onto it, while trying to be as serious and as clear as possible.

“Carol, this has nothing to do with Wanda.” You started almost wincing when Carol narrowed her eyes at you nodding to the letter.

“I think it has everything to do with her.”

Silence followed such declaration, you stood there undecided as to what to do or how to proceed. The hand holding the letter was heavy, while the one holding the towel had been shaking all this time. You could see the hurt in Carol's eyes, how lost and really brokenhearted she was feeling at the moment.

It was something you had lived once that you wouldn't want anyone experiencing the same situation as you did. 

“Yes and no.” You stated trying to look for the right words. “I have been running from my emotions for a very long time, from my past and this mission…I never thought I would be facing everything I thought I didn't need or even want.”

“So now you're going back to her?” Carol couldn't help but press the subject, her eyes never leaving yours.

“I’m not sure as to what do I want to do or what it is exactly that I am looking for,” this time around you stepped forward, your hand left the towel to grab Carol's hand. “I just know that I have to do something about it and…see what will happen.”

Carol wanted to add something else, she wanted to say something but whatever she might say would sound hurtful and resentful. You stepped closer waiting to see if she rejected your proximity but if anything Carol seemed to give in. 

“I'm sorry.” Your voice was above a whisper, her hands soon wrapped around your waist and you could feel her warm breath on your neck.

“I never wanted to hurt you, Carol.”

“I know, I just wish I was enough for you.”

Without thinking too much, or actually planning on doing something different your cupped her face leaning in to share a goodbye kiss. Carol sighed, kissing you harder, pressing you against the closest wall trying to imprint in her mind the last memory she would have of you.

______________

Three months later

The rain was falling on the roof with constant tapping breaking the silence in the room.

The heavy aroma of incense and myrrh impregnated the air in the room, the placed was decorated with earthly colours and there was a single chair that had been occupied by a strange man wearing a dark orange Kasaya. The man had been there ever since you arrived at the temple, his eyes dancing around a book he was reading with attention.

Your feet took you to the closest window, the world right outside was a full range forest that was being clouded by the falling rain and the darkening sky. Thunder broke into the valley, and you winced hearing the rumbling sky right above your head echoing its rage with nothing to quiet down the sound. Your eyes flickered to the sky, and for that moment, your mind drifted to the last couple of weeks in which your life had change so drastically.

After Carol found Wanda’s letter in your pocket, she decided to leave for good.

It was a tough decision, and a part of you regrated the way she had to leave and how things ended up between the both of you. It hadn’t been fair with the other woman, but you never made any promises that you couldn’t keep. In the end, Carol understood this and after one last goodbye, she left to comply with her mission to the Galaxy.

You always thought you would go looking for Wanda after that, but you didn’t.

Instead of just going where your heart was telling you to go, you stayed behind to fix and organise your life the best way you could. Natasha and Yelena kept up with their mission, the brought former Widows and some hurt powered individuals that you helped to go back on their feet while teaching America about her powers while giving her a taste of a normal life.

It had been working just fine, America had been getting used to her life with you and she was getting into the whole high-school adventure the best way she could. Life in Norway had always been a quiet experience, and something that you had fallen in loved with ever since you got there; that was the reason you never left. But in the midst of all of this, and life going back to what it was you found yourself going back to the letter and to Wanda.

It became quite the habit for you to just sit outside or go to the lighthouse to think and overthink about Wanda, the letter, and what you should do next.

“Why do you keep pretending to think about what you’re going to do when you already know?”

Yelena had been the first one to question you, and you didn’t have a complete answer to that. You just gave a vague answer dismissing the young woman before going back to ignore the tug at your heart, and the memory of Wanda inside your head.

“I talk to Wanda yesterday, she wants me to tell you that she really is grateful for the book you send over, help with the boredom.” That time it had been America, and the teen had come at you with a frown and narrowed eyes. “Did you really send her a book? Why didn’t you go to her? Or wrote to her? Or even call her?”

You didn’t have an answer for those questions, so you just shrugged and proceed to ask America about the girl you saw her talking to the other day. America had blushed and soon had forgotten her questioning of your actions, you merely smirked keeping the words Wanda had sent to you closed to your heart.

“Everyone is tired of you being an idiot, so Tony sent his jet that it is waiting for you. You’ll leave at midnight, go pack your stuff.”

Natasha had not been as subtle as the others, and she had gone on full commanding mode before setting everything up for your departure. That was how you ended up at the other side of the world, with just a single backpack and waiting in the lobby with a storm happening right outside the window.

Ever since you went into the plane your heart had been leaping inside your chest, shivering while awakening a hoard of butterflies in your lower abdomen. You had been trying to control your nervousness, and your thoughts had been protected by a dark cloud ever since you arrived at Nepal. You didn’t know what you were going to say, but you did know that the time to fix everything had arrived.

“Y/N, this is really a surprised.”

You turned around to see a smirking Strange standing by the door, you returned the smirk walking towards him with your hand stretched out.

“Strange, I have to say I was forced to make up my bag and come here.” You shrugged making a face, “didn’t have much of a choice.”

“And yet, this is the place you want to be, right?” Strange chuckled tilting his head, “took you long enough.”

“Is there everyone talking about me behind my back?” You grumbled shaking your head, Strange shrugged stepping aside to show a long hallway.

“We were merely speculating and hoping.”

“Hoping?”

Strange walked beside you, his face a mask of complete peace. The man had not age that much, and yet he seemed to carry with him the weight of the world and a duty that came to him when he needed it the most.

“We were hoping for you to make the right decision.” Strange stopped at another door, this time around those eyes of his hardened while they pinned you to the spot. “Wanda has made great progress here, you know? I know things between the both of you were not easy when you were younger but things are different now.”

“I know that.” You scowled lifting your chin, “that’s the reason I’m here, things are different now and I think it is time for me to just…”

You waved your hands around, the gesture trying to replace the words you didn’t dare to say to this man. Whatever you had come to Kathmandu for, it was something you would discuss with Wanda alone. For a moment, Strange gave you an odd quizzical stare before his face relaxed again and he opened the door.

You opened your eyes impressed by the sight, right in front of you there was a huge yard filled with training grounds that were completely empty under the rain. In each corner of the squared Yard there was a fountain decorated with mythological animals pouring water with a melodic fall. Your eyes went from the yard to the ceilings and the sky, then they finally focused on a young man standing by the closest column waiting patiently for something.

Strange cleared his throat presenting the young man to you.

“I have set up a room for you, Carlos will take you there.” Strange dedicated you along stare before speaking again. “Everything had been set up, and when you’re ready you will know where to go.”

“Thank you for having me here, Strange.”

“Don’t mention it, as I said, I think this is necessary and I think it would be beneficial for you and her.” Strange waved at you, turning around. “Just…don’t break her heart.”

Those words shoot a cold, sharp pain through your heart, your eyes opened and your mouth was already formulating a retort to such words. However, you stopped yourself when the sky ignited into a bluish-silvery light and thunder growled through the valley.

You jumped startle turning your eyes to the sky.

“Sometimes silence is better than no silence at all.” Carlos smiled gently at you; he bowed showing the opposite side of the hall to you. “Shall we, Mrs. Y/L/N?”

The young man led you a room in the far corner of the compound, it was under the shadow of a mountain while facing the forest and the far-away city of Kathmandu. The room was quite simple, with a single bed, a bedside table, a desk, a bathroom and a wardrobe it was something that reminded you of your younger days.

“I hope this is of your liking, Mrs. Y/L/N, dinner usually is served at 7pm, and breakfast at 6am, after those hours you are very welcome to use the kitchen at your own discretion.” Carlos explained while allowing you to se the room. “If you need anything else, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I am in charge of you for as long as you stay here.”

“Thank you, Carlos, you are very kind.” You offered a single smile; Carlos bowed his head but before he could go you called out to him. “Carlos, wait.”

The young man turned around tilting his head with a frown on his face.

“Do you know…where can I find Wanda Maximoff?”

Carlos frown deepened and it looked to you as if he didn’t know for certain where the woman was or who you were asking for. Then, his eyes opened slightly with a glint of understanding in them.

“She usually spends her time in the Meditation Chamber, it is located it on the left wing of the compound. Near the pass to the mountain range.” Carlos hesitated before bowing again. “No one likes to go there when she is using the small chamber, Y/L/N, so please be advised of this.”

“Thank you, Carlos, I will be careful.”

The young man nodded and finally left.

You stood in the middle of the room for a while before dropping your backpack to the ground and falling to the bed. You closed your eyes, your heart beating a tad bit faster while your hands got all sweaty; there was a tingling void in the pit of your stomach making you tensed around the shoulders.

What the hell am I doing? Why am I even here? What if…what if this doesn’t work?

These thoughts danced around your head, your body regulating your breathing until you finally fall asleep. The last thought that crossed your mind was that Wanda would be in for a great surprised, and you just hoped that love really was enough.

You woke up with a start.

The room was submerged in darkness, not a single sound could be heard inside or outside your room. You sat down noticing the clothes you had arrived on, and the unmade backpack on the floor. You had fallen asleep, tired for the trip and the emotional rollercoaster you had been as of late.

You were also running from what was to come.

With a quick glance to the watch on your wrist, it was past four in the morning. You stood up and made your way to the bathroom, your mind going over the dream that had woken you up abruptly. The memories mixed with the dream of what could be, the anxiousness of a meeting you were not sure how it would turn out to be.

You took a deep breath enjoying the morning breeze that caressed your skin. The rays of light sneaking through the heavy clouds gliding above your head, it was a cold morning with little light following your stroll down the hall in the direction of the kitchen. All around you the morning routine for the inhabitants of the temple had started, with one single thought in mind, you went straight to the kitchens for a coffee before meeting with the woman you had come to see. Your lower abdomen was already filling up with butterflies, and your body tingled in anticipation.

*****

There was a small cabin located at the outskirts of the compound.

Wanda had chosen this place because it was the only place in which she could hide from the judging stare of the rest of the inhabitants in Kamar-Taj. In the last couple of months, she had been focusing on learning more about her powers and about herself, she had tried to reach out for some sort of peace while getting her powers under control.

It had worked, to some degree.

What she really found difficult to overcome, or to actually face with a cold heart was her past. And more exactly, her feelings for you. The memories mixed inside her head, the possibilities along with her desires and her hopes brought a new kind of longing to her heart. The letter she left behind had been her fighting effort to be a part of your live, she was conscious of your anger but also of your willingness to forgive. 

Wanda had hoped that perhaps…

The sun raised on the horizon, this time around the yellowish light broke into the sky bathing that ground with light. Wanda rested her elbows on her knees, her eyes lost on the mountain chains spreading through the valley. She had found peace in Kamar-Taj, and after three months of uncertainty, she had given up seeking to heal her broken heart.

“You surely know how to pick these places.” Your voice broke any silence spreading through the house, Wanda jerked awake turning sharply to the source.

You stood rather awkwardly at the door leading to the yard, your hand scratching the back of your head but your eyes completely set on Wanda.

“Y/N?” Wanda whispered in disbelief; with heavy limbs she turned completely standing up. “You…what…”

The words went missing in her mind, she was dumbfounded never thinking it was possible to see you once more. To actually have you there, standing casually in front of her. You raised a brow, lips curling in amusement, you stepped closer observing as all defenses broke and Wanda stood vulnerable in front of you. Why didn't you see it before that day?

There was some hesitation on your part but, after a brief moment, you stepped closer hugging Wanda, holding her closer to your chest. 

“Hey there, little witch.” The nickname rolled out of your lips with a  familiarity you hadn’t lost and Wanda wrapped her arms around you tightly hiding her face in the crook of your neck.

This moment crossed your mind several times, each scenario had been different every time and sometimes the outcome had not been pleasant. But at that moment, it was everything you were looking for and Wanda was needing.

The sunny morning had changed rapidly into a snowy one, the sky darkened with cold breezes breaking into the temple forcing its inhabitants to seek refuge inside the quarters of the temple.. 

Wanda had been talking non-stop, it was unusual of her to just make small conversation but she had been nervous enough to have you there to just stay quiet and not say anything at all. Her hand grabbed the teapot, pouring the warm water into the small mugs she had fixed on a tray.

“Strange thought this could be good for me, he told me the offer had been on the table by the time Thanos was defeated but…” Wanda lifted the tray making her way to makeshift living room.

“But America and Westview happened.” You finished helping her out, Wanda smiled nervisouly shrugging while locking her eyes to yours. “You never have a rest, haven't you? I mean, as far as I know, you have been facing difficulties from day one and…”

“Losing you left me lost.” She mumbled sitting down, conscious that your eyes were on her. 

This was the first time she referred to that moment, Wanda grabbed the mug with both hands frowning lightly.

“I was afraid of everything I was feeling, everything I was experiencing with you.” She whispered only for you to hear. “You were everything I wanted and I was…I wasn't no one, Y/N, why would you want to be with me?”

You pierced together every single moment surrounding the break up, the treason before and after, the happiness and the heartbreak. At that time, Wanda had been completely alone, having lost Pietro had been difficult and then she was trusted into a life she hardly understood, and people that were more afraid of her than anything. It was not an excuse, but you understood what Wanda was saying.

“You broke my heart so bad, Wanda.” You spoke, noticing the hardening of your voice, Wanda winced but you didn't stop there. “I was in love with you, ready to give you the world, ready to help you with the weight you were carrying…but I never saw how hard it was for you.” Wanda broke into a bitter smile, “did I ever tell you about the beginning of the war?”

The question caught you by surprise, the change of topic was so sudden you were tempted to press further into questions about the cheating and the reasoning behind it. It was the shadows crossing Wanda's face that made you rethink your options, and the fact this was the first time she spoke about Sokovia.

“You never spoke about Sokovia, or your family. Not really.” You replied, earning a simple nod.

“My family was complicated, mom lost dad when we were children and she married soon after.” Wanda spoke with the weight of memory in her voice, her eyes drifting away until the found yours once more. “My stepfather was a religious man, and mom was a school teacher that had never forced her beliefs on us until then.”

You fixed your position on the sofa, your eyes never leaving Wanda. It was the first time Wanda really opened up to you, a story and a background you didn't know and that was showing a side of Wanda that had been unknown to you.How many times did you really talk to her? How many stories had she told you about herself?

Why did you fall in love with her?

Why were you still in love with her?

“He was really tough on me, Pietro would get away with almost anything until the first bombs were heard in the outskirts of the city.” This time around she softened the corner of her eyes, her lips twitching upwards, “he was so mad he wasn't allow to go to the soccer match, that he dragged me out of the house and we both tried to get to the field. We almost died that day.”

You straightened up leaning in with eyes wide open.

“You did?”

“Yes, one of the first conflicts broke out in the neighbourhood where the field was located.” Wanda made a face, “I had never been so afraid as I was at that moment.”

“What do you miss the most about Sokovia?”

The question caught Wanda by surprise, whatever shadow of war and memory dropped for a moment giving way to a different expression. 

“I loved the libraries.” 

“You did?” You chuckled watching as Wanda leaned forward all giddy telling you about the public library near her home, how the books were organised on different shelves and the sight of so many books she could get her hands on had always been so tempting she found peace and happiness in these places.

“After my parents died, I was so busy trying to survive and to make my way through the world with Pietro I just forgot about it.” Wanda lowered her face, her eyes on the floor. “I was angry, lost and afraid…then, Hydra came and I didn't want to be a victim anymore.”

You purse your lips remembering those first days in which you met Wanda. An angry and dark teenager that was angry at the world for everything that had happened to her.

“I guess it must have been hard to see Pietro again.” You said all of a sudden, Wanda nodded curtly tears forming in her eyes.

“It was hard seeing everyone, everything I could have but…”

“We don't know if we could have.” You finished placing the mug on the table, tilting your head, your eyes focused on the window, glancing at the world outside. “I guess things could have been different, perhaps worse…”

“Or better.” Wanda followed your eyes to the window, it was raining with some snowflakes swirling around.

You shrugged, lowering your eyes to the watch on your wrist. It was past midday, lunch was already being served back in the main temple and your stomach was protesting from the lack of food. 

“You could stay.” Wanda proposed following your stare to the outside, you teared your eyes from the window glancing at Wanda that was blushing lightly. “I mean, it is raining and the main temple must be full, and it is so far and…”

Wanda gasped tensing when your hand fell upon yours, your lips broke into an easy smile. 

“I was thinking the same, but perhaps you have something to eat? I'm starving.”

The change Wanda had was almost surprising, her whole face lit up and she stood right away stretching her hand towards you. You glanced at her hand, then at the grin adorning her face before taking her hand in yours standing up and letting her guide you through the small cabin.

“Oh, you're in for a huge surprise, I've been dying to show these new recipes to someone but…” Wanda trailed off, her enthusiasm almost diminishing until you squeezed her hand smiling encouragingly at her.

“I've been on my own in this place ever since I came here. Not many are very open to share a conversation with me.”

“Why's that?” You inquired frowning lightly, Wanda shrugged looking away from you.

“They are afraid of my powers and…how powerful I am.”

Silence followed her words, but soon there was no more conversation needed it as you two reached a small kitchenette located at the back of the cabin. Wanda pointed to a dinning chair near the island counter, her happy smile was back on making sure you were seated before she started working around.

“You really are excited about this.” You commented chuckling lightly, your cheeks burning when the other woman winked at you, carefree and grinning.

“I just…” she bit her lower lip, her eyes glancing everywhere but at you, “I'm just happy I'm not alone, that I have someone to cook for.”

Wanda turned quickly busying herself with the past and the knives putting the food from a cupboard and a fridge.

“When did you learn to cook?” You asked resting your elbows on the counter, your eyes never left the form of Wanda observing the tension on her shoulders, or listening to the trembling on her voice.

“When we have to go on the run…after Lagos.” 

“Those were difficult times,” you recalled the conflict and the drama, Natasha trying to balance her public life with her life as a spy, then Steve and Tony arguing like children while the world divided itself without any reason.

“You signed the treaty, though.” 

“I did but it didn't matter.” You cocked your head, smiling as the other woman scowled openly at your words. “They needed the idea of control, and that's what we did. But they never got a chance to actually controlled us, our abilities and the danger that has always lurked in the dark wouldn't allow them to actually have any control. Or power.”

Wanda opened her mouth ready to argue your position, she had been at the other end of the conflict being accused of horrible crimes while being called names that had broken her at some point.

You softened your stance, sympathy showing in your eyes.

“It was different for you, wasn't it?”

“Everyone thinks I'm a monster.” She replied flatly, “I'm starting to think they are right.”

It was not only Lagos, it was Edinburgh and Sokovia, it was her working for Hydra and then coming back from the snap with anger and sadness in her heart. It wasn't easy for her, and you were just taking noticed of the external factors that had pushed Wanda over the edge on more than one occasion.

“You're not a monster.” Your replied was supposed to be encouraging but your voice hardened this statement, you winced noticing the hurt flash crossing her green eyes.

“I guess it doesn't matter anymore.” Wanda turned around busying herself with the food. “I'm here now, away from everyone I could ever hurt, trying to just control myself and learn more about my powers.

Alone.

She didn't say it, but for you the word resounded perfectly after her statement. Soon after all conversation died and the only sounds were those of Wanda moving around the kitchen preparing the lunch she had been so eager to show you moments ago.

A little restlessly, you stood up walking around the kitchenette taking noticed of the appliances as well as the actual construction of the cabin. The place was at the outskirts of a temple that had exist before any civilization had a chance to flourish. Your sight lifted to the mountain chains hovering above the valley, the dark clouds of a storm along with the drops of water covered the plain making the resto of the world invisible to prying eyes. The cabin was on the perfect spot for anyone to disappear for a while.

You turned around observing the furniture and the few things that were Wanda's. You took notice of the books, and the notebooks, her clothes and her blankets, the shoes on the floor and the pictures on the coffee table. With some trepidation, you approached the table, your eyes going wide open as they fell on the picture right on the top.

It was a picture of you and her.

You two were younger, the smiles and the closeness were evidence of what was starting to happen between the both of you. It had been a happy moment, right before the both of you escaped the watchful eye of Tony, Steve and Natasha and went out of your way to have fun and find so much needed love.

“I love that picture.” Wanda appeared out of nowhere, you jerked around finding her standing by a cabinet, her eyes far away submerged in memories. “That day you went out of your way to make me laugh, to try and make me happy…it was…”

“After your birthday.” You mumbled, smiling softly while approaching her. “I remembered.”

You stood right in front of her, the heat from her body comforting the cold ess in yours. Her eyes filled with uncertainty and hopefulness, your heart shrank at the scene wanting nothing more than to give in. Wanda wrapped her left hand around her right forearm, tension growing around you two…waiting…

“Lunch is ready.” Wanda was the first one to break the silence, the tension broke with a splash of cold water and soon there was only awkwardness.

“Good, I'm starving.” You declared touching your abdomen, Wanda smiled nodding to the kitchen.

“I…I hope you like it.” She stated stepping back an dreading you back, whatever was happening, whatever was about to happen put to a rest while you and Wanda tricked yourselves into denial.

—-----------------------

The rest of the afternoon went by without any major incident, Wanda was afraid to ask about your life but you didn't need any questions since the silence was becoming unbearable. With some select stories, you told Wanda what you had done ever since you left the Avengers, you told her about the many adventures and those tragic events that had surrounded your life. She had filled in the spaces with her own stories, but the strained that had been growing since lunch was still there lurking and waiting to explode.

You stretched out tilting your head to see the rain had stopped and the night was filled with stars and a bright, silver moon. 

“I think I should go.” You mumbled but did not make any attempt to move from your spot.

Wanda followed your eyes, biting her lower lip.

“It's late.” She stated with some hesitation, “you could…you could stay the night. I mean, the walk to the main temple is long and in this darkness could be dangerous, and it was raining so …”

“You do know that I can moved through the shadows once I know where I am going, right?” You replied amusedly, Wanda blushed opening and closing her mouth.

“Yes, yes of course I know, I…” Wanda trailed off, lowering her gaze.

I don't want you to go.

You nodded briefly standing up and completing your stretching routine. Your eyes never once leaving the form of Wanda.

“Then, I'll leave. We can continue this tomorrow, if you're up to it.”

“Yes!” Wanda stood up rather fast almost falling on you, she couldn't stop blushing cursing her own inadequacy and cowardice. “I mean, that would be nice.”

“We could train and you can show me what you have learnt in here so far “

“Sure, that would be…nice.” Wanda bounced lightly wanting to say something else but unable to do so.

You turned around but, right before you were consumed by your shadows you leaned in placing a single kiss on Wanda's cheeks.

“Have a good night, Little Witch.”

You left and Wanda was left frozen on the spot, her face warm with a single hand brushing against the spot you had just kissed. With some hesitation, she wrapped her arms around herself and went to bed, thoughts of you dancing inside her head. There was just a single thought tormenting her, and it was the question that kept her most of the night awake.

What was going on with you and that sudden visit?

_____________

What Wanda thought would be a couple of days turned into a couple of weeks.

The questions tormenting her mind never stopped, but she didn't dare to voice any of them for fear of breaking the status quo of her relationship with you. Idhe was happy with what she could get, even if that meant she would think about it at night unable to sleep wondering just what the hell was happening or why you were there. She would remember your smile, your words, the conversations that made her laughed or know the Y/N she had missed all those years; and then she would turn around put her knees to her chest and let herself feel the twist of her heart thinking of the cruel torture that was seeing you and not being able to be with you.

It was difficult, but Wanda was just happy with what she could get from you. 

“You have to lift your arm…yes, just like that.” 

Your voice and the soft touch of your arms broke Wanda's thoughts, she felt her cheeks colouring red at the closeness of your body, the sweet torment of your warm breath on her ear.

“There you go, let's do it slowly. First learn this form before channelling the energy.”

You smiled satisfied when the young woman followed your instructions, Wanda had been distracted in the last couple of days and her frustration had grown to the point she was always tense when trying to follow up your instructions. You stepped back watching before joining her with your own exercises, taking a deep breath while enjoying the silence that echoed through the valley.

“When did you learn all of this?” Wanda huffed tiredly, she turned around to see the teasing smirk dancing on your lips. “This is…difficult.”

You shrugged, finishing the final movement before scratching the back of your head, you step closer to Wanda standing right in front of her. It was easy to see when her breath caught in her throat, how her eyes dilated and the muscles of her body tense completely. Your heart shivered lightly, your arms stretching with the palms of your hands turned to her, Wanda furrowed her brows watching as you joined her hands with yours.

“I was angry at the world, violent and a little confused when Natasha first took me in,” you explained, never looking away from Wanda while your hands alongside hers lifted and started a new form of Tai Chi. 

“This technique gave me peace, but it wasn't until I left the Avengers that I realised I need to really learn about my powers.” You furrowed your brows, the memories breaking inside your mind, Wanda couldn't look away her heart leaping intensely while her body submitted herself to you.

“This helps me understand the shadows and the darkness inside my heart, besides…” your smirk grew, your eyes gleaming mischievously, “it is giving me an opportunity to be close to you, right?”

Wanda couldn't help the blush growing on her face, nor the smile that showed on her lips. You chuckled, leading her for at least fifteen more minutes before the training session was over. 

The morning had been cold, and the rain had become a constant occurrence in the time you had been in Nepal. That morning had been not an exception, and by the time the training had been over your clothes were completely drenched; you made a face grabbing your jacket and the boots while looking around for your backpack. The downside of coming all the wat to where Wanda was staying was precisely that your stuff was all in the room up in the main building.

Wanda could see your hesitation and annoyance, your eyes going from one piece of clothing to the other while your hand massaged the back of your neck. The young witch chewed on her lower lip, thinking on how to proceed before stepping closer her hand placing tenderly on your shoulder.

You turned around tilting your head while furrowing your eyes, Wanda offered a tentative smile nodding to the cabin.

“I have hot water and some spare clothes, it you don’t mind.” She said tentatively, “that way you don’t have to go all the way to the temple and…well, you…you can finally take my offer of staying here.”

You pressed your lips together thinking over the offer, you hadn’t dared to tell Wanda that night would be the last one you would stay in Nepal. That day you had planned to finally have a serious conversation with her right before leaving; the last couple of weeks had been amazing and you had given in normality instead of facing the real issue that had brought you all the way to Kamar-Taj.

“I mean, you don’t have to and if you want…” Wand started babbling waving her hands while trying to hide her nervousness, you realised you had taken far too long to answer her and she was now trying to cover up for something that might not be what you wanted.

“Hey, that’s okay I was just…” You hesitated straightening up, the same nervous gesture of your hand at the nape of your neck present, “look…I just think we must talk.”

“Oh.” Wanda stepped back placing her left hand on her right elbow, her face fell only to change into a grimace that she tried to make look natural, “right, I mean you have Natasha and Yelena, and America is there and…and Carol. Right I just, I thought…”

Whatever Wanda thought got tangle in her throat as she found herself mere inches away from you, your hands had been placed tenderly on her hips and you were trying to catch her eyes in your to make sure that whatever you were going to say was not lost in misunderstanding.

“I have to go back, yes.” You started taking care of the words you were using, “Natasha and Yelena got news of something unusual happening in France and wanted my help, America is still at school so I have to make sure everything is arranged and Carol…”

A swift breeze formed around them, Wanda was frowning crunching up her nose while her eyes gleamed a single flash of red. She stepped back lifting her hand when you tried to approach her.

“I know, I get it. I never expected you to stay longer than…than what you should, I mean I don’t even know why you came here.” Wanda finally said looking away from you not really understanding what was happening, but hating the fact she was feeling so heartbroken.

“Wanda…” you started but the redhead shook her head breaking into a sad smile.

“Go take a bath and I will prepare the clothes and something to eat then, we can talk.”

You opened your mouth only to close it again nodding curtly.

“Okay.”

Without looking back at you or saying anything else Wanda turned around and left you alone feeling the coldness of the morning now more than ever.

_________________________

The sound of the shower filled your ears while the warm contact of the water heated your skin. You closed your eyes, your hands working on the knots on your back and arms moving through your shoulders and your neck whatever place you could reach. Your body was letting go of the tension, but your mind and heart were deeply tormented by what had happened in the last couple of weeks.

You had come to Nepal with a single goal in mind.

Seeing Wanda after almost five months had brought back all the love you thought you had stopped feeling for her. On that first day you had thought of just talk about what had happened and her letter, but things didn’t turn out the way you expected them and, as the days passed by you realised the conversation could wait as long as you had a chance to pretend that Wanda and you were okay.

Wanda had set up the food in the small living room, she had a laptop set up while a mug of hot chocolate rested in her hands. Her face lifted in your direction, her eyes were swollen and her cheeks were red, the smile she gave you was one of pure sadness and the sight alone broke your heart.

You approached her taking the spot beside her on the sofa, the table had been filled with another cup of hot chocolate, bread and some cheese.

“I thought you may be hungry as well, and I just thought well you told me you haven’t watched this movie and Strange got it for me under illegal circumstances.”

It was a silent offering that you took with a smile, you sat down grabbing the chocolate.

“I bet he did, don’t worry Tony has a specific program for this kind of activities as well,” You fixed your position on the sofa.

Wanda pulled on her blanket, a huge dark blue fleece she had bought on her way out of Norway. She stretched out making sure your legs were covered, her warm breath so close to your face that it sent shivers down your back.

“I just thought if this is going to be my last day with you, I would love to spend it like this.” She whispered, chewing on her lower lip before sitting closer to you.

“It is not your last day with me, Wanda.” You replied lowering your gaze furrowing your brows. “You left with a goodbye and a letter that left me confused.”

“It was not my intention.” Wanda leaned back, she was hoping for the conversation to not take place to perhaps evade the inevitable heartbreak but it seemed as if you were decided to continue without any consideration.

“I wrote that because…” Wanda brushed her hair shrugging, “I never thought I will meet with you again, Y/N, and the circumstances of this meeting make me face my past, and what I lost, what I could have.”

“You weren’t the only one, Wanda.” Your voice dropped shaking your head, “I never thought I will see you again, but when I did…”

“Why did you come here, Y/N?” Wanda finally dared to ask afraid of the answer but far to eager to know, to finally understand what had happened in the last couple of weeks.

You were looking straight ahead, your thoughts twirling around in a maze of uncertainties. Leaning to your right, you found Wanda was just as confused and nervous as you were feeling at the moment.

“I never stopped loving you.” You confessed unable to look away from those green eyes, “I tried several times to just forget and ripped away my love for you.”

Wand winced her heart clenching inside her chest at those words.

“But I couldn’t and then…” You snorted shaking your head. “Then everything happened, you come back and I just…”

“I love you.” Wanda whispered, her lips quivering and her eyes welling up with unshed tears. “I never stopped and it hurts so much knowing that I messed up so big that you…I don’t pretend you want to be with me, and I know after everything things are…”

“Confusing.” You cut in; you took a deep breath before glancing back at Wanda.

Silence fell afterwards, the tension built like an invisible force that was threatening to explode in the outcomes Wanda was afraid of. It wasn’t until that moment that she understood she had been afraid to know the answer to her question, why were you there could have many responses, but Wanda had only written two possibilities: a possible friendship, or give Wanda a chance.

Both outcomes were equally terrifying, and the silence coming from you was the most disturbing thing for her.

Wanda opened her mouth to speak but the words tangled in her throat, you had shifted your position coming closer to her the back of your hand caressing her face and your eyes, those eyes that months ago had looked at her with hatred and anger, were now looking at her with tenderness and confusion. There was something else in there but Wanda was afraid to put a label on it, hope could be such a fragile emotion.

“I thought about your words, Wanda, I haven’t been able to rest since you left.” You furrowed your brows your hand moving away but your face coming closer to Wanda’s. “Tell me, what should I do?”

Wanda found herself lost in your eyes; her throat completely dry while her heart leaped painfully on her chest. Her abdomen filled with butterflies while she tried to find the right words to answer your question.

“I came here because I needed to see you, because I missed you.” You confessed your words hitting Wanda straight in her heart. “But the real reason, Little Witch, is because I don’t want to lose you. Not again. Not anymore. So, tell me, Little Witch, what should I do?”

Time stood still.

Wanda was still trying to process your words, her heart beating really fast with her mind wrapping around what you just said. She could feel your warm breath on her face, the smell of her shampoo on your hair and the sweet scent of chocolate on your breath. Wanda had waited far too long for to give her a chance and now that the opportunity was here she was afraid.

“You…You could stay with me.” Wanda whispered cringing at her response, thinking herself an idiot for not being straightforward.

You snorted shaking your head, Wanda was afraid to see anger or disappointment, but when you put two fingers under her chin and lifted her face slowly all she could see was amusement and…love.

“Whatever you want, Little Witch.”

The nickname rolled out of you sending shivers down Wanda’s back, something shifted at that moment but Wanda wasn’t sure what it was; but even though she was afraid and unsure, she leaned in closing the distance melting as soon as her lips touched yours.

It was like the first time you two kissed.

Tentative and timid, a single touch of lips moulding to the other with trembling hands holding you to Wanda. You missed this feeling so much, her soft lips, the taste that was purely Wanda, how she just gave in without thinking too much; the world fade away and the only person that existed was Wanda.

The kiss broke too fast for you liking, Wanda rested her forehead against yours tears rolling down her cheeks.

“What so you want, Wands?” you asked softly, your hand caressing her cheek and face.

Wanda fluttered her eyes closed leaning into your touch.

“If this is our last day, I just want to be with you.” Wanda’s eyes opened wide, her cheeks burn an intense red while you wiggle your brows teasingly.

“My, Wanda, but give us at least another cup of chocolate.” You chuckled when she slapped you playfully on the shoulder.

“I didn’t mean… I just …ugh, would you stop it?” Wanda tried to hold back her laughter, but with you looking at her amused was kind of difficult.

“You have a dirty mind.”

“You’re the one with the dirty mind, I just said I want to be with you.” She retorted rolling her eyes but without getting away from your closeness.

“So movie and some snuggles?” You inquired fixing your position on the sofa, Wanda nodded playing the movie while crawling to you.

“This is not going to be our last day, Little Witch.”

“I know.” Wanda said with a flash of doubt crossing her green eyes, you wished there was something else you could tell her but for now your words should be enough. “Can we…watch the movie?”

“Whatever you want, Little Witch.”

You moved on your back, putting the movie while letting Wanda decided where she would rest. It didn’t take her took long to crawl to you resting her weight on your body cuddling closer with her eyes turned to the screen her ear placed tenderly on your chest hearing the beatings of your heart. Wanda sighed contentedly when your own arms wrapped protectively around her, and at that moment she knew she was falling in love with you again and this time around things would be different.

______________________________________________________________

Next Chapter: You meet with Wanda once more, this time around a different place and a different, as the world continues its existance you and Wanda are finally giving one another a chance to live. America gets in some trouble, Yelena brings back up, and Natasha can believe she is ready for retirement.

[ironunderstands]

I’m having some Aventio thoughts.. :3

Possessive Aventurine urghhh Aventurine who won’t let Ratio out of his sight for more than 10 minutes when they are out together out of fear, Aventurine who is terrified he will lose someone else he loves and will hold Ratio’s hand at any opportunity he gets, Aventurine who mildly and vaguely threatens anyone who so much as looks at Ratio badly…. AAAAAAAAA

Like usually I don’t enjoy the “you’re mine” kinda trope/mindset, but Aventurine has lost practically everything and everyone close to him so I can see him being extremely, well, possessive, of Ratio. However he would still obviously respect the others boundaries (especially due to his trauma), it’s just I can see him keeping Ratio as close as he possibly can.

I think that’s why I like writing fics where Aventurine is rescuing/saving/protecting/etc Ratio because he needs the ability to care for someone like that just as much as Ratio needs the ability to just let go and be vulnerable

Like Ratio already spends all his time trying to help others so having someone else do it for him is a welcome change, and Aventurine constantly has all eyes on him, so not having to be the center of attention for once is freeing..

..which is also why I probably prefer dom aven/sub ratio when it comes to nsfw/suggestive content of them. It’s more interesting than the alternatives to me because it’s a dynamic that would benefit both of them and help work out their issues in canon. Not saying it’s some magic fix it or something but yeah I think Ratio needs to give up his control sometimes and Aventurine needs to gain some. I feel like people downplay how sex can be used to explore character dynamics and I know this is kinda off course for what I usually write/talk about but I just haven’t seen anyone discuss it so I thought it was worth mentioning.

Moving onwards, I really love writing Ratio when he’s not in a normal state of mind. Drunk, injured, sleepy, a fucking owl (IM WORKING ON THE FIC THANK YOU @aurae-rori FOR HELPING ME BETA ITS AT 6.3/~10k WORDS IM GONNA TRY AND FINISH IT SOON I PROMISE), etc.

Whatever one of these you decide to inflict upon Ratio allows for some really interesting characterization to be enabled, because well, the man’s a tsundere, and it’s kinda hard for him to keep that up when he doesn’t have the capacity to. Honestly I view his tsundere-ness as being half voluntary/a choice and half just the way he is because he’s not very good at expressing his emotions or dealing with other people’s emotions.

However if I were to say, make him drunk, a good portion of that barrier breaks and Ratio’s true self gets exposed, and he nor Aventurine nor anyone really know how to deal with that. It’s so much fun to just put a character out of their element and see what they do next, and I think messing with Ratio’s mental state is the epitome of that, because now he has to confront the fact that he IS hiding parts of himself, and that’s scary (in a good way).

I also think Aventurine dealing with the fact that someone just genuinely lives him but is too afraid to really show it would be compelling. Would he blame himself? Would he dig into it and accidentally cross Ratio’s boundaries, then feel horrible about it? Would he doubt that it’s really real until it becomes transparently clear that Ratio does love him? Oh the possibilities..

Would he see Ratio being kind to someone in a similar way that Ratio is to him and get jealous? Would he worry that maybe he isn’t special to him and is just selfishly imagining everything?

They make me insane.

[zaczenemiji]

Curtain Calls and Curveballs I

Kenji Sato x Reader

Synopsis: In your high school years, you and Kenji Sato are fierce rivals, constantly competing for top academic honors and excelling in your respective extracurriculars. Little did you know, you rivalry would take an unexpected turn.

Word Count: 1,836

Genre/Warning: Coming of Age, Enemies to Lover, Eventual Romance, Slow Burn

Author’s Note: A lot of you have been requesting for an enemies to lover themed fanfic so here’s a two-part one made for y’all <3

MASTERLIST

“Anyone can pretend to be someone else.”

“Well, it doesn’t take much brainpower to throw a ball.”

How could you forget the feud that started it all? Your spot as a top-ranking student back in high school was suddenly disturbed by the arrival of a certain Japanese student.

You didn’t mind it at first, only perceiving it as a challenge that would lead to the betterment of yourself. You know, kinda like what they say—smooth seas never made a skilled sailor thing.

But little did the teen you know that Kenji Sato would become a force of a tsunami in your life.

The little frowns when one scored higher than the other on quizzes became a competition that was the backbone of your interactions—the core aspect of your enmity.

The two of you were naturally gifted students with too much competitive spirits. Your performances were closely monitored by peers and teachers who eagerly anticipated the next round of test scores to see who would come out on top.

Needless to say, your little rivalry became a show that everyone liked to watch—a TV drama that keeps them glued on the couch, and a baseball game that keeps them at the edge of their seats.

What started as frowns became bickers and a constant exchange of provocative teasing. A day at school wouldn’t be complete without exchanging sarcastic remarks with one another.

“Better not mess this up, (y/n). Wouldn’t want to lose those precious extra points,” Kenji said in one of your chemistry labs.

You rolled your eyes as you set up your titration apparatus. “Don’t worry about me, Kenji,” you replied. “Just make sure you know the difference between an acid and a base.”

Despite the academic rivalries, your favorite thing to one each other up on despite being on totally different sides of the scale, is your clubs.

With Kenji being the star of the baseball team and you the leading actress of the drama club, the two of you were set to speak at the pep rally to represent your respective team and club.

“And now, let's hear from our star pitcher, Kenji Sato!”

Kenji steps up to the microphone, flashing a confident smile. "Thanks, Mr. Principal,” he said. “Our team has been working hard, and we're ready to bring home another championship. Let's hear it for the baseball team!”

The crowd roared with approval. Sports enthusiasts loved Kenji and he is definitely the face of sports in your school. That’s one thing you couldn’t argue about. You’ve been trying to name a player better than him at school but unfortunately, there was none.

Kenji stepped back and the principal proceeded to introduce you, "Next, we have our leading actress, (y/n) (l/n), to tell us about the upcoming play."

You strode to the microphone, poised and charismatic. "Thank you, Mr. Principal,” you started. “This year's play, 'Romeo and Juliet, is a labor of love for the drama club. We've poured our hearts into it, and we hope you'll all come to see it.”

“Break a leg to the baseball team, and we hope to see some of you at the theater!" You added.

The crowd cheers again, though with less intensity than for Kenji. Kenji leaned over when you stepped back beside him.

“Break a leg, huh?” He whispered just loud enough for you to hear. “Isn’t that a bit risky for an actress?”

“It’s tradition,” you smirked. “Besides, I'd like to see you try and memorize Shakespeare."

Kenji laughed, "Maybe next time. For now, I'll stick to throwing strikes."

A week after the pep rally came Kenji’s game.

He winded up and delivered a fastball that struck out the batter, securing the win for his team. The crowd erupted in applause, chanting his name.

On his way to the locker room, he comes across you. He saw you in the bleachers earlier, watching with a critical eye.

“Enjoyed the show, (y/n)?” He asked, smirking.

“It was fine, I guess,” you said, rolling your eyes. “If you’re into that sort of thing.”

Kenji chuckled, “Don't worry, I'll save a seat for you at the next game.”

"I'd rather spend my time watching paint dry,” you said, crossing your arms. “Good luck with that, though."

A few days after the game came the premiere of the school's production. Every time the curtains rose, you stopped out not as (y/n) but as the character whom you portrayed—Juliet.

After the final act, the audience gave a standing ovation. You took a bow, eyes scanning the crowd. At the back, you spotted Kenji clapping politely.

You basked in the praises of the director and your friends for the job you did well. As you exit the stage, you find Kenji waiting in the wings. “Not bad,” he said, raising his brows. “For a drama nerd.”

You smirked in return. “Glad you could tear yourself away from the baseball field to appreciate some real talent."

"I figured I'd see what all the fuss was about,” he chuckled. “You didn't disappoint."

"Is that a compliment, Sato?” You asked, eyes narrowing playfully. “From you?”

“Don’t get used to it,” Kenji shrugged. “Just calling it like I see it.”

At home, after the drama club’s play, Kenji told his mom about you. He told her about how good you actually were at acting. He planned on leaving mid-performance but you kept him glued to the spot he was watching from. He may or may not have ditched his baseball training that day.

“You seem to know her well,” Kenji’s mom commented to which he retaliated with “To defeat your enemy, you must know your enemy.”

On the other hand, Kenji’s compliment played rent-free in your head. It overshadowed the director’s and the others’ compliments like they didn’t matter.

This situation went on for years in the span of time you spent in high school. Classmates and friends became used to the everyday sarcastic remarks and insults you hurled at each other.

What they didn’t know were the subliminal messages in every interaction.

They didn’t know about how Kenji often finds himself trying to perform exceptionally well whenever he knows you are watching. He’d throw an extra-fast pitch or make a particularly insightful comment in class, hoping to catch your attention.

They didn’t know that his playful teasing was a way to keep the banter alive to be able to engage with you regularly. They didn’t know that in a crowd of people, Kenji would always look for you. He watches your reactions to see if you’re impressed.

They didn’t know that you genuinely attended Kenji’s baseball games to see him do well. You’ll clap and cheer, albeit more reservedly than the die-hard fans, keeping your enthusiasm in check.

They didn’t know how you defend him from others, from those who would speak badly of him regardless of what he did. They didn’t know how you took note of his class attendance and lent him notes from classes he missed due to training.

The two of you did all these while outwardly maintaining the rivalry. Then one day, before you two knew it, graduation season was right around the corner.

One bright and sunny afternoon in the school gym, a large banner hung above reading "Graduation Ball Partner Reveal." Students crowd around a bulletin board, excitedly searching for their assigned partners.

This was one of the school’s antics to add some excitement to the graduation ball by randomly pairing students as dance partners. You heard other girls overtly expressing their wishes to be paired with Kenji.

With a grin, your friend turned to you, “Who do you hope to get, (y/n)?”

"Anyone who can at least manage to keep up on the dance floor,” you shrugged.

"I heard they really mixed things up this year. Could be anyone!" Another friend said.

When the crowd began to disperse, you and your friends made your way to the bulletin board. Scanning the list, your eyes widened as you saw your name next to Kenji’s.

“No way,” you muttered. “This has to be a mistake.” Just as you were processing this revelation, you heard a familiar voice behind you, "Looks like we're stuck with each other, (y/n)."

You turned to see Kenji standing there, a mix of amusement and surprise on his face. “Of all people, it had to be you,” you said crossing your arms.

“It’s not like I rigged the draw,” Kenji chuckled. “Why would I wanna be paired with you?” He asked like he didn’t want it.

As the night of the graduation ball drew nearer, the two of you agreed to be truces for one night.

A week later, there in the same gym, stood you at the edge of the dance floor. That night, the gym was a glittering wonderland, with twinkling fairy lights and elegant decorations that turned the mundane space into a ballroom fit for a fairytale.

“You look amazing, (y/n),” your friend nudged you. “Kenji's going to be blown away."

Scoffing, you replied, “If he even shows up.”

Just as you finished speaking, Kenji appeared, looking dapper in a sharp suit. He spotted you and made his way over, a confident smile on his face.

“Hey, (y/n),” he said. “You look… wow.”

You felt warmth rush to your cheeks as your heart began beating faster. All the earlier pettiness gone the moment you saw him.

"You clean up pretty well yourself, Sato,” you replied, barely a whisper.

Kenji extended his hand, a playful glint in his eyes. "Shall we?" He asked.

Taking his hand, you let him lead you onto the dance floor where you two fell into step, finding a rhythm despite the initial awkwardness.

“So, truce for tonight, right?” Kenji asked. You nodded, smiling, “Only for tonight.”

You danced in silence for a few moments, the reality of the situation sinking in. “I never thought we’d end up here dancing,” he said, breaking the silence.

“Neither did I,” you replied. “But maybe it’s not so bad.”

“You mean you’re actually enjoying my company?” Kenji chucked.

You rolled your eyes playfully, “Don’t get used to it.”

As the dance continued, the tension between you two began to melt away. You two talked about your plans after graduation and for the first time, you saw each other as two people with dreams and aspirations; not as an obstacle in the way.

“I want to go pro. In baseball,” Kenji said. “I've got scouts interested, and I think I have a real shot."

Your eyes widened slightly. "A professional baseball player, huh?” You replied. “I can see that.”

“Thanks,” Kenji grinned. "It's been my dream since I was a kid. What about you? What's next for you after we toss the caps?”

"I want to be an actress,” you answered. “I've been accepted into a drama program, and I'm going to chase that dream as far as it takes me."

That being said, you two will most likely be going to separate schools in college. Or so you thought.

——————————————————————————

PART TWO

Taglist is open! Comment if u wanna be tagged on future Kenji oneshots

@hismistresss @sweetangle8 @aerivina

@eternallyvenus @puppyminnnie @wattpadsuckssohard @sakura-onesan @reggies-eyeliner @buggs-1 @miffysoo @spencerrxids @stupidbutsmart @marimargirlies @mixvchelle @lannnu @lailuv21 @christiinee @abracarabbit @youngbananamilkshake @flutterfly365 @o-schist

[kiryuzbbygirl]

Accidental 'I love yous'

・❥・ haven't written like this in a while so forgive me for any spelling errors or mistakes! <3 ・❥・TW for togames: Blood, and implied attempted SA (not by Togame) ・❥・ Tags: Fem!reader, Aged up, fluff, a big of angst if you squint really hard, regular gang violence in togames, Can be read gender neutral, but in togames has "my girl" but outside of that I believe its pretty neutral. some comedy ・❥・ words: 2.3k ・❥・ characters: Ren, Haruka, Togame

・❥・SPOILER WARNING ⚠️ A character that has yet to be mentioned in the anime was mentioned in Harukas.⚠️

Requests are open at this time. *. ⋆ **Banners were created by me, if you want to use them feel free too or request ones for yourself <3**

 ੈ✩‧₊˚˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ ੈ✩‧₊˚ ੈ✩‧₊˚˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ ੈ✩‧₊˚˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ ੈ✩‧₊˚˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ ੈ✩‧

Ren always bit his tongue, rather the lollipop that always seemed to be securely in his mouth. Headphones on to drown out the sounds, or rude and insufferable comments by some loud mouthed punk. He was no more than a hypocrite when it came to others. 

That was until he met you, something about your voice that seemed to drown out the noises. He didn't need something in his mouth to bite when he wanted to make some nasty comment or take his anger out on someone. He always felt like a monster, feeling as if this was all he was good for. How you proved him wrong time and time again. 

“Ren.. Hey look at me yeah?” You spoke, voice sounding like an angel. Loud in his ears as if everyone was just speaking in whispers. Eyes setting on your face, seeing your kind ones looking back at him with such a gentle gaze. Holding his face in your hands while the others took care of the mess. He no longer had his headphones over his ears and lollipop between his lips. On the verge of going too far, doing too much, being scolded. There you stood. In front of him wanting nothing more than to stay right here, in this moment. Breathing you in deeply, a small smile curled at his lips. Almost in relief of not having gone too far. He was grateful for you; everything you would do for him. Ren's lips moved faster than he could stop himself as he looked you in the eyes, “I love you, Y/n” a small laugh left your lips as your gaze softened impossibly more before pressing your lips against his as the chaos around the both of you came to an end. “I love you too Ren, more than you know.” 

Relief floods his pretty gray eyes as he chuckles a bit, wrapping his bloodied hands around your waist resting his face in the crook of your neck. He felt so light, as if a ton of bricks was lifted from his shoulders. He closed his eyes for a moment enjoying the warmth that radiates from your body. “I think I should be the one saying that, my love. You have no idea how much you left me just by being next to me.” Rubbing his back as you sighed gently, “Yeah I can tell.. You yell much less now” You joked as you pulled from him just enough to see his face as he stood straight up again with a knowing smile “Yeah yeah thats because of you idiot” Rolling your eyes you reach up to press a kiss against his cheek. “Whatever you loser” You joked as you grabbed Ren's hand watching as his classmates started yelling the chant whenever they defeated a passing gang that caused problems. Just happy to be with each other, that's all you needed. 

 ੈ✩‧₊˚˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ ੈ✩‧₊˚ ੈ✩‧₊˚˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ ੈ✩‧₊˚˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ ੈ✩‧₊˚˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ ੈ✩‧

✿✼:*ﾟ:.｡..｡.:*･ﾟﾟ･* 🕸 ⋆｡°✩ ⋆｡°✩🕸 *･ﾟﾟ･*:.｡..｡.:*ﾟ:*:✼✿

Haruka didn't think he needed anyone, and how wrong he couldve been. After joining Bofurin he became surrounded by everyone who wanted nothing more to support the guy who was helping before classes even started. Who seemed so strong yet so skittish when it came to others. Wanting to make it to the top yet having to walk a tightrope just to get there balancing on the right thing to do and the wrong path he couldve gone down many of times. Not wanting to protect others yet going against his word every single time. Being there for someone when he so much as hears a sniffle, yet not knowing what to say or do. 

He wasn't sure how it happened or why his chest had felt so funny when you were around. Maybe it was the humidity in the air, yeah it was just the heat. Rather the heat that would raise on his cheeks when you so much as looked in his direction with a soft gaze, or even said his hair was cute and complimented him well. How his bi-colored eyes fit his features so nicely. Haruka didn't know what to do with himself when these things happened, his face would get just hot, his stomach would so many flips he felt sick. Haruka couldn't even handle your gaze, how would he be able to even hold your hand, to press his lips against yours. They looked so inviting, so soft. He would stay up thinking about you, how you would taste.. Shaking the thoughts as he tossed and turned. 

“Haruka? Earth to Haruka” You waved your hand in front of his face as you sat across from him as he blinked a few times at you before his face went as red as a tomato which made you stifle a laugh before leaning back in the booth seat. “Hmm something on your mind?” Yeah, you. “Hell no. I was.. was distracted by uh.. Something over there don't worry about it. It's gone now anyways.” He lied through his teeth as you raised a brow and tilt your head to the side, almost as if you were calling his bluff. “Mm, right. So what was I talking about then?” Haruka couldn't recall a single thing you had said, too distracted by your lips and how the sun hit the gloss that was on your lips. “Uhm.. uh..” He looked at everything but you as he tried to come up with something. An amused grin curled at the corner of your lips, leaning on your elbows. “I was talking about Endo and how he looked really hot, all beat up y'know.” You too, lied through your teeth but that was not the point right now. Haruka felt an unfamiliar sensation flooding his veins as he tsked before crossing his arms a pout on his lips turning to the window. Jealousy and insecurities flooding his body. “I'm just teasing Haruka I cou-” He cuts you off as he looks at you with eyes filled with determination which shut you up quickly as he opens his mouth several times before shutting it again. 

With his feelings being higher than he ever thought they could be he blurts out words you half expected to never fall from his lips “I love you okay!? I don't want to hear about Endo or h-how hot you think he is, or how strong he looks. I-I know I wouldn't match up to him. Ive been alone my whole life. I know that.. I can't match up to him for you.” Looking at him with a shocked expression as a soft sigh left your lips reaching across the table grabbing his hands into your own. “That is the insecurities talking, Haru.. I feel the same. You're loud, harsh, and unbearably cute. Blushing at the littlest of things, and being so easily swayed by something Suo said in passing. You make it all worth it. I think you're pretty strong, and really hot beat up too” You ended with a wink as you looked at him with a gentle expression. 

Kotoha watching the events unfolding, excited due to knowing of your feelings, and in shock by the outburst, must've pushed the poor boy too far. Haruka looked at you with wide eyes as his face once again was flushed red as he tsked hiding behind his hair as he looked down. A light laugh passed your lips as you stood to move to his side of the booth and pulled him to your chest rubbing his back. “I meant every single word, don't let that pretty head of yours let you think otherwise.” Pressing a kiss against his head. He looked up at you with shimmering eyes as if everything he had been through was worth it. To have you by his side, made everything worth it. For that he was going to be eternally grateful for. 

✿✼:*ﾟ:.｡..｡.:*･ﾟﾟ･* 🕸 ⋆｡°✩ ⋆｡°✩🕸 *･ﾟﾟ･*:.｡..｡.:*ﾟ:*:✼✿

𓍊𓋼𓍊𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𓋼❀𖤣𖥧𖡼⊱✿⊰𖡼𖥧𖤣❀𓍊𓋼𓍊𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𓋼

Meeting Togame was purely an accident and neither of you remember how it happened. Well Togame did, he fully remembers the moment you walked into his life standing by his side even when he was the most violent he had ever been. Togame did not however remember when he fell for you. Maybe it was when he first saw you, maybe it was after. That didn't matter to him anymore. All he knew is what he wanted to protect you no matter the cost or consequence of his action. He would move mountains if you asked him too. 

Having gone out to the festival that was nearby, he was going to be taking his time walking you home. Telling him that you needed to run to the bathroom as you were leaving. Running to the bathroom, although upon exiting you were met with a group of men you had never seen before. Fear was running through your body, always listen to your gut as they say - as you went to run from them only to be grabbed by your wrist being pulled back to the much stronger man, feeling his body pressed against yours. A whimper left your lips, not one a pleasure, but of disgust. 

Meanwhile Togame kept an eye on the time, seeing as how you were taking longer than normal but his blood ran hold when your scream of his name echoed in his ears, something in him snapped. Running towards your voice as you were trying to rip the hands of the men from your body. Tears rimming your eyes as Togame came into your sights, a cry of his name leaving your lips, a cry he never wanted to hear again. Ripping you from their grasp standing in front of you like a shield, something so precious to him he wanted to protect even if it meant his own life would be lost. “You good?” He called over his shoulder to you as you sniffled with a soft “mhm” a smirk curling his lips as he darted for the men in front of him. 

Rapid fire of fits being thrown, knuckles bloodied as he picked up the half conscious man that was laying on the ground by the scruff of his collar. “You ever touch my girl again you will regret that you were ever born, understand me you lousy piece of shit.” He nearly growls at the man before shoving him hard enough back against the ground to cause the guy to start coughing. Turning his attention back over to you he sighed softly. Picking you up seeing your sandal was broken as he hummed softly. “Come on, Ill carry you back home” Togame left no room for argument. Just nodding as he lifts you up on his back. The walk back to your place was quiet, hearts beating rapidly, wrapped around his body resting your head against his shoulder. “Thank you” You finally spoke, breaking the heavy silence. “Dont worry about it, doll. I'd risk everything for you.” He hummed a bit finally getting to your place, although the anxiety was still heavily weighing on your chest as he seemed to pick up on this. “Want me to stay?” You just nod as you finally take a good look at his hands and face. “I'll clean you up too” 

Togame sat on the toilet seat as you took the items out of your first aid kit, disinfecting the area as he winced, whispering an apology in response. He looked at you, he could see the worry on your face, almost hearing the voices in your head as he sighed softly as he waited for you to finish up. He stood up as you began putting things back in the box, moving to stand being your frame and wrapping his arms around your waist. “Now, what's going on in that pretty head of yours, hm?” he spoke gently, resting his chin on top of your head. Biting the inside of your cheek as you felt protected, safe, trembling hands wrapping around his. “I was scared, and I honestly thought I was going to die.. The things they were saying to me.. The.. the things they s-said they were going to do to me. I was really scared.” Voice trembled as you turned in his grasp, wrapping your own arms around his frame, nuzzling against his chest. “Can you stay tonight?” You peered up at him, waiting for his answer as he returned his gaze. It was soft, warm even. “Yeah, why don't you get changed then. I'll wait out here.” He spoke softly, hand coming to stroke your cheek, leaning into his touch as you nodded. Removing yourself from his grasp and getting changed in your bedroom. 

Peering out from the door once you were in your Pj’s “C-Come on, I'm ready for bed.” Your face felt hot. He couldn't help but to smile at your reaction when you had asked in the first place. Walking over to you, and entering the room. Picking you up once again, and crawling into the bed with you securely wrapped in his arms. Your face securely in his neck, arms around his well built frame. Togame reached over to grab the blankets to pull over your bodies. Minutes passed as he waited for your breathing to steady as he peered down at you, a smile on his lips as he pressed a kiss against your forehead. “Goodnight, I love you, Y/n” Your eyes snapped open at his comment looking up at him as he jerked back a bit. A warm smile bright on your lips. “You couldve told me when I would have been awake, loser” Without waiting for a response, you leaned over to press your lips against his running your fingers through his hair. That was enough of a response for him, knowing you too, felt the same as he did. 

𓍊𓋼𓍊𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𓋼❀𖤣𖥧𖡼⊱✿⊰𖡼𖥧𖤣❀𓍊𓋼𓍊𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𓋼

----------------- I hope you enjoyed! remember reblogs and comments are super helpful. Hope to see you again soon!

[in1-nutshell]

If you have seen X-Men 97, the comics, or the 90s series (not the movies, they are great, but these are more accurate and it makes me so happy), then could you do mutant buddy interacting with the bots (tfp) but they are scared of them due to sentinels, and sometimes have panic attacks or something? Idk. They dont mention they are a mutant due to, well, being a mutant, and their mutant power could be like Gambit's, cabel's, or whoever, maybe even Magneto. Thank you, if you dont, then google, please, the Doctor Who one has killed me, i would love to see the two crossover.

I don't remember making a Dr. Who Buddy, but I can certainly do Marvel (X-men) Buddies!

Hope you enjoy!

Mutant Buddy with Magneto powers meeting Arcee and Bulkhead

SFW, Platonic, Angst, Human (Mutant) reader

TFP

It had been a couple weeks since Buddy had gotten the message from their team to split up and stay under the radar.

What better place to lie low than Jasper Nevada.

A place so boring and plain, the perfect place to stay under cover until they are needed again.

…that was until they came across two robots arguing in the middle of the road.

Buddy looking in shock at the two bots arguing. They calmed down a bit seeing that they weren’t Sentinels. Or maybe these were a new type of Sentinels sent to get them. Maybe if they just turned around now…

Bulkhead: “And we wouldn’t be in this mess if we’d just gone that way!” He points in Buddy’s direction and turns to feel the frightened human. Arcee sighs: “Ratchet is not going to be happy about this.”

She starts moving to the human. Buddy feels their heart pounding against their chest. The flashes of the blue bot and the Sentinel start merging. Bulkhead stops Arcee.

Bulkhead: “Let me try.” Arcee: “You? All right, but if things go south, I’m stepping in.”

Bulkhead nods before turning to the human. Buddy is on edge waiting for the first sigh of hostility. To their surprise the large green bot kneels and gives them a warm smile. Definitely not something a regular Sentinel would do. Whoever is making these new bots needs a raise for making them seem harmless.

Bulkhead: “Hey there, I know this has got to be pretty scary right now, but your safe.” Buddy slightly tilts their head in confusion. Bulkhead: “I promise all of this will be explained if you come with us—”

Buddy takes a step back nervously. Their heart was hammering against their chest and hands started shaking. Arcee, getting annoyed at how long this is taking decides to take matters into her own servos. It worked with Jack; how hard could this be?

Arcee: “We tried it your way Bulk, now it’s my way.”

Mistake 1.

 Roughly pushing Bulkhead back.

Mistake 2.

Holding her servo out above their head.

Mistake 3.

Moving down too quickly.

Buddy screamed raising their arms out.

Both Autobots were immediately flung several feet back.

The human with shaky hands and tears in their eyes just ran back into the town.

The bots would have followed if it weren’t for the fact that they had escaped into a crowd and blended in with everyone else.

Oh, Optimus and Fowler were defiantly going to like this.

Personal thought: First time I saw this version of Magneto my mind went 'This. This is how Megatron's holoform would look like.'

[mirouie]

miles morales headcanons please with a reader who has anxiety and has panic attacks ?

୨ৎ 'don't you worry your pretty little head over it, dear!'

miles morales x anxious!gn!reader | wc: 0.8k

↳ warnings: mentions of anxiety, mentions of panic attacks, one mention of throwing up and lice(?)

↳ tags: fluff, slight hurt/comfort, soft miles, caring miles, established relationship

↳ a/n: hi, thank you so much for requesting! i based most of these off of my anxiety and the kind of attacks i have and i'm well aware that not everyone experiences the same thing, so i'm sorry if it's not what you had in mind, but thank you for requesting anyway! i hope you enjoy this one! <3

— first and foremost, miles is gentle. so, so gentle it makes your heart ache and make you feel warm all over.

miles is the type of person with whom you just feel so comfortable with. his presence is light, easygoing, and it makes him trustworthy.

earlier on in your relationship, you tell him about your anxiety. something you’d usually avoid when stepping into new, more intimate territory with your friends, but miles is just that person. it doesn’t feel burdensome when you tell him; in fact, it makes you feel almost relieved.

he’s nothing short of kind and caring when he knows. he’s genuine in all of the gentle questions he asks you, making notes upon notes mentally in order to prepare himself for future bouts. when he’s alone, he does more research into the things you feel and think about, their possible causes, specific symptoms, making it his personal mission to know every single remedy for every single situation (it’s neither possible nor impossible, per se, but leave it up to miles to find ways).

— he’s always got an eye out for any sign that you’re feeling anxious. he knows you down to the bare bones, so he’s always aware of the way you fiddle with your fingers and pick at your nails, or the little twitch of your neck or the shivers that run down your back. he knows by a sharp glance thrown his way that you need to step out for a bit to calm down, or by a squeeze on his forearm that you’re feeling that uneasy swelling in your chest and you need him to distract you. all your signals and mannerisms, no matter how big or small, he knows them all and is always ready to rush to your aid.

— the first time you have a panic attack in miles's presence, it's a bit of a mess, if you're being honest. despite everything he's done in order to prepare himself for times like these—all the research and the self-pep talks in the mirror, all kinda thrown out the window. not everything, but he does panic on his own a little when he sees you running short of breath and dissociating. he pulls through, though, because of course he does. he's miles, and he's your boyfriend. he'd do anything for you.

he speaks in such a kindly manner, voice low and smooth as he asks questions gently and murmurs sweet encouragements to you. he gives you your space at first, a hand rubbing your back and gauging your reaction. when your eyes flit over to his with a look he knows all too well, he's by your side in an instant and scooping you up into a bone-crushing hug (he never wants to squeeze you that hard, but when you told him that the pressure relieves your anxiety a ton, he's never stopped doing it since).

— as time goes by, miles gets amazing at handling your attacks. what used to be hours of hyperventilating and crying and trying everything to get yourself to calm down becomes short-lasting whenever miles is around. he always knows exactly what to say to comfort you, and usually that paired with loving hugs and a plethora of kisses is enough to calm you down. he'll bring you to a more secluded place and sit with you until you're feeling better (classes and spider-man duties be damned) because he knows you don't like it when people see you. he'll come up with excuses to get you out of something if need be, and they're always the strangest you've ever heard.

"...and so i said to mrs. miller, 'they're down with a bad, bad flu that'll make you throw up every five minutes and give you lice.' you should've seen the look on her face, it was hilarious," miles's absurd excuse almost makes you stop crying.

"w-what?" you sniffle. "that's not very believable, miles."

"i know! i don't know how she let me go with that one, honestly," still, he turns to you and smiles wide, his hand stroking your back coming to squeeze your shoulder. "s'okay, at least we have the rest of third period free now. maybe even fourth if she tells our next teacher about it."

— once you've come down from your attacks, miles is doting to another level. you tell him that it's not necessary, but he goes all out. he's got everything you could possibly need—snacks of all sorts piled up high, water, sodas, candies, chocolates, skincare if you want them. he'll dump you onto his sofa, practically swimming in the biggest and fluffiest blanket he could find in the house, your favorite movie playing on the tv. he's got everything laid out within arm's reach, and once that's that, he'll do the most important thing of them all—flop on top of you and engulf you. the rest of the day is spent cuddling, hugging, kissing, watching countless movies, stuffing yourselves with junk food, and more kissing.

— all in all, miles adores you. he adores you to the point he'll take care of you when and wherever, and it doesn't matter to him if you're anxious all the time. he loves you all the same and will kiss your anxiety away. ♡

© mirouie ; do not copy, edit, or repost my works. plagiarism is strictly prohibited.

[sinusoidaldysfunction]

Decided to do @/falling-skyzz template bc. I don't think I've gotten to talk much about my thoughts on the books and characters and stuff. Also love getting to actually use my designs (I don't draw them that much surprisingly)

Who's who and thoughts under the cut

Mother+Dragonet→ Orca and Coral, I'm a little bit crazy about their relationship. Probably moreso my brain's interpretation of them versus canon, granted we really don't see them in canon. I just think it's so interesting, I wonder how Orca was raised, how Orca turning on her mother affected Coral and how she treated Tsunami and Anemone. What did Coral do to Orca that she decided to enchant a statue to kill all her heirs? Idk. Orca is my obscure wof character that I've latched onto.

(Grand)father+Dragonet→Fathom and Albatross, look man. I can't think of any dads in wof that are good dads. Maybe that's on me but idk. So. Albatross and Fathom. I don't think Albatross himself hated Fathom, I think he hated how Lagoon made Fathom out to be his replacement. Idk I just remember really liking the chapter that talked about them working on the Summer Palace together. (Also I just love drawing Albatross)

Royal Family Member→Grandeur. I just think she's neat. She's a grumpy old lady that gives a little insight into how the Rainwing tribe used to be. Also I love my design for her, I came up with it like 3 years ago and I think it still holds up.

Siblings→Darkstalker and Whiteout. Originally I was gonna put Luna and Blue here but I didn't wanna repeat characters so. These two. Man. Whiteout is one of the few dragons that Darkstalker doesn't turn on even throughout his fall. But she also never does anything to get in his way? Even before hatching, baby Darkstalker decides to not help her hatch, wanting Foeslayer's love to himself. Ngl man maybe Arctic was right, that baby was kinda messed up. Either way Darkstalker is fascinating, but everyone and their brother has talked about him.

Friendship→Turtle and Peril. Again. They're just neat. Peril is so much, Turtle is so shy, they're good foils. Both are powerful in their own ways. Also I love the scene where Turtle just throws fish at Peril so she can eat. Like Peril goes from this terrifying monster to just. Having fish thrown at her. I love it. Don't really ship them tho.

Animus→Chameleon. Okay. It's actually Orca, then Albatross, then idk. Chameleon has all the powers of an animus with the scroll okay he counts. Also he has some of the most interesting enchantments with his shape shifting and Pyrite. Evil old man.

Gay Ship→Jambu and Pineapple. I'm not big into shipping, they're cute. I like them. Like their designs. Idk.

Straight Ship→Luna and Swordtail. Himbo and Girlboss (who gets trapped in the terrible ending of her book). They're perfect for each other.

Lesbian Ship→ Sundew and Willow. I found their relationship pretty relatable when I read the book. Less now, honestly it's kinda a sore spot but. Eh. Again, really like their designs.

[heartilywrites]

Hey! I love your Korra x reader fanfics! I was wondering if you can do one about how Korra proposes to the reader with a betrothal necklace!

،، 𝓛over is a Day ; Korra

resume: Korra thinks is time to make the big step in the relationship.

content warning: fluff, but like a LOT of fluff ; comfort ; Korra x fem!reader ; established relationship ; no nation nor bending status mention ! (but it is mention that r is not from the water tribe) ; kataang mention <3 ; no use of y/n

wc: 2.2k

a/n: + “Korra x reader reunited after 3 years”, I was so tempted to use Bruno Mars' "marry you" for the title–. Thank you for your words and the request 🥺 ENJOY, LOVE :D

“ The birds gonna make the wedding bed and the trees gonna lay the wedding table and the rivers gonna give us the wedding bands.

One might describe marriage as a way of making official a relationship in front of the law, for others it could mean an exchange of interest, but Korra has always had the idea of marrying for love.

Her parents had always said if it was on her plans to marry someone she needed to do it for love and not as an obligation and Korra was surrounded with true love stories her whole life so she wouldn't settle for less. And neither would you.

Meeting the avatar during her probending days could be the best thing to happen to you, in your words. You've been in the girl's life since then, in the bad such as in the good and great and she was forever grateful with you for your company; having you take the first step by asking Korra on a date after the championship and Amon's whole mess was cleared and after that it was all in color pink for you. She had this unique way of making you feel like she was your first love, always having butterflies in your stomach, giggling like a teenager, captivating every ounce of attention you had and making you deliver all the love you could ever produce in a silver tray just for her.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “This is my girlfriend!” Korra introduced you cheerfully to her parents. You could feel your face burn.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “It's so good to meet you finally, Korra has been telling us so much about you.” Senna walked to you, taking your hands in hers and giving you a comforting smile.

Tonraq looked at the interaction with a serious face, making you feel nervous from your toes to your crown, you offered him a crooked smile before doing a small bow.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “It's such an honor to meet you both,” you started taking a step back, your hands were behind your back while you moved them agitated. “Korra also told me about you and I'm so glad I get to meet the two people who raised such spectacular woman.”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “What kind of intentions do you have with my daughter?” your girlfriend slapped her forehead and Senna shook her head.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Just the purest, sir!” you were quick to respond before Korra could say anything. “I love your daughter, I wouldn't do anything to hurt her.”

The avatar looked at you astonished, neither of you had said 'I love you' to the other by that point and it made her blush how you were the first one to do so in front of her parents. The couple began to smile big and embrace you in a hug before welcoming you to the family, Korra joined later on.

If there was someone who could keep the avatar grounded was you. When things get tough and she needs someone for reassurance, Korra always looks for you first, it doesn't matter how the time is or if she has everyone on her shoulder asking for an answer. She was repeatedly at your door, wanting to spend time together either for you to give her advice or just looking for you to distract her from the outside world.

And you always followed her everywhere she wanted you to go, at least that was before she decided to return to the Southern Water Tribe alone after her last battle against Zaheer.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “I'm sure this will be for the best, love,” you whispered, kneeled in front of her, her eyes looked tired and dark circles surrounded them. They had lost that characteristic brightness you loved. “You will get better, I can go visit–.”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “No, no,” she said hoarsely abruptly, taking you back. “I need to do this alone, I... I'll write to you.”

And that was the last time you talked to her face to face. The next months everything was purely written, you would try to not look desperate in your letters, but always remembered her how much you missed and loved her and how you were waiting for her.

And after the first year, the letters got fewer, Korra had written how powerless she felt and you would write her back to don't give up, how healing sometimes took more time than expected.

At her third year gone, six months in, she stopped writing. It took you by surprise, but you thought maybe the therapy was taking more from her day, you would reunite with your other friends as much as you could.

When the airbender kids got her back from the swamp, everyone was so secretive about her return to you, you didn't even know how Tenzin's kids went to look for her. That day Asami had ask you to meet for lunch, almost like everyday, and when you arrived you saw the girl, Mako and the one monarch that was supposed to be king, in front of them there was a silhouette you knew like the back of your hand.

Asami greeted you with an excited smile and the avatar turned, a little bit scared to see you. Her heartbeat went crazy when her eyes met yours; there you were, the woman she had on her mind ever since leaving the city, the only one who could make the avatar nervous to the point that she felt like she was dreaming once more about meet again with you. Slowly she stood up from her seat and walked up to you, you were teary-eyed at her sight.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Darling, I–” she tried to talk, being interrupted by your arms around her in such an impatient hug which she reciprocated.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “You're okay, thanks the spirits,” your voice was trembling, her heart broke at that. “I got so scared when you didn't write back those six months, I thought something happened to you or maybe you didn't want nothing to do with me anymore.” you were talking so fast, but Korra was able to understand everything.

She embraced the hug and shook her head. “Never think that, I'm so sorry for leaving you in the dark so long, I needed to find myself again and... I'm just glad to be back here with you.”

You went to seat with the group to catch up, being met with interruptions at the kidnapping of the monarch. After that tiny reunion, everything felt back in place, you both felt as if a very important part of you was back even if you were in war with a crazy leader wanting to take Republic City by force, you were there and that was all that matter to Korra.

When everything was over, Korra had asked you on a date night before Varrick and Zhu Li's wedding that same day. Her hand was playing with the jewelry she had carved herself with such pride in her hand opposed to you while the two of you were walking.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “That's such a beautiful necklace.” Katara had said looking over Korra's shoulder, the avatar stopped and looked back at her with a smile, showing better the jewelry to her.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “You think so?” The older woman nodded with a smile back at her. “Do you think she would like it?”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “I'm sure she will,” she answered. “And I'm also sure she will say yes.”

Korra blushed while smiling and nodded. “I hope she does...” her eyes wandered back to the necklace. “Maybe we are too young.”

The master waterbender giggled a little bit. “You know, Aang gave me a betrothal necklace too when we were around your age.” Korra's eyes shot surprised back at the woman who shrugged. “When you feel like the time is right everything comes easy after, the universe ends up working at your favor. If you're sure she is the one, take the step, you won't regret it.”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Honey, are you okay?” you asked pulling her out of her thoughts afterwards. You both were now sitting at the edge of the circle that surrounded the spirit portal, she looked at you.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Yeah, sorry, I was just thinking.” she brushed it off, your gaze went back to the portal, your eyes shining with its light and Korras eyes were fixated on you.

She was sure of her next step, it was a big step for sure, but she wanted to do it with you. You had been by her side all this time despite anything, her parents loved you, her friends loved you, she loved you in such a way that felt crashing, but at the same time it felt like it was right. You'd never let her down and she tried to never do it to you either.

If anyone asked her at that moment how she saw herself in the next five years, Korra would say with such confidence how she saw her and you together. Waking up to you by her side, coming home to you, being able to introduce you around as her wife, the love of her life.

Your face turn her way when you heard her voice call your name. “I... I don't know how to begin this,” she confessed giggling nervous. “I guess I should first thank you for always staying by my side and never leaving me, even when I disappeared that long, you waited for me...”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “I would always wait for you,” your hand took the one she wasn't hiding. “It doesn't matter how long it takes.”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “And I love you for that, you have no idea how much.” even if you were confused about why she was saying all that now, you smiled to her. “I want to be with you every single day of my life, you're the love of my life, my light that guides me in the darkest of places, my rock were I can find rest when the tide is being harsh with me, the reason I keep going and want to be better for.”

You opened your mouth to ask why she was saying all that, but just as if she could read you, her other hand showed the betrothal necklace and your eyes widened. You knew what it was, even if you weren't from the water nation, you knew about it; back when Eska asked Bolin –or claimed him– in marriage you had asked Korra about it.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “A betrothal necklace,” she answered raising her eyebrows at the sight of her friend. “In my nation, when you want to ask someone in marriage you gift them a necklace for them to wear.”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “I see,” you nodded looking at the earthbender and then back again at her. “Ours should be better.” you had said in a joking way.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Way better, it will represent how I can't live without you.” the girl hugged you with a little of strength that made you laugh and start a new topic.

The necklace you were looking at was the most gorgeous one you have ever laid eyes on. Korra had carved the moon and ocean spirits in their fish form, your eyes started to tear at the memory and the significance of the jewelry in it.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Marry me,” she blurted out, her hands were shaking a little bit, but with your blurry sight you couldn't see it. “Be my wife, I want you to be with me our whole lives, I want to tell everyone that you're my wife, I want you to be part of my family... Officially.” small sobbing sounds were heard from you. “Allow me to be the one to care for you in sickness and in health, until death do us apart.”

You needed to take a moment to breath in deep so your voice could be clear to her but your head nodding with excitement. “I do! I accept! Yes!” you said once you calmed and threw yourself to her give her such sweet and thirsty kiss almost as if you have never kissed her before.

It took feeling your lungs burning asking for air to separate you both. After straightening back up in your seats, Korra had put the necklace on you and when you turned around to show her she smiled big at the sight of you. It was way better than when she dreamed about her proposal, to her eyes you looked like a goddess under the moonlight that was beginning to shower around you both.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Spirits, you look so gorgeous.” she said like she was out of breath. “I think we should go get ready for the wedding. I'm so going to presume our engagement to everyone.”

Your ears felt warm and you giggled while shaking your head. “I think I need to look in my wardrobe for a dress that would look good with the necklace, fiancee.”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Shit, that sounds like a dream,” Korra took your hand to start walking back to your apartment to get ready, you laughed. “Say it again.”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Fiancee?” you heard your girlfriend let out a tiny scream before holding you in a hug.

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Someone will have to kick me out from the wedding, I will never shut up about it, fiancee.” she said making you laugh harder. “Who do you think would be the most surprised one?”

‍ ‍ ‍ ‍‍ “Wu, probably.” you answered. You knew everyone was going to take the news with the same excitement, it was going to be a fun night.

[birdietrait]

frances fisher <3

damon hooked up with cj, one of his friend's roommates...and she stopped by a couple days later sporting a bump. damon was not happy about it at first, but the idea grew on him and soon the soon-to-be parents decided to move in together. soon, baby frances was born!

[artnerd1123]

"I am no messenger. But I will give you a message. A message of death."

sooo i got a custom done by @popfizzles and they're SO cool and funky :D everyone say hello to Razing Rot, the god of creations/projects filled with love, care, and dedication that were left to rot as if none of it ever mattered. corporate greed, the world moving forward, someone looking to cut corners rather than keep that which people lovingly brought to life- all of it falls under their domain.

they're a nice deer-wolf-monster thing, really! they just don't like being ignored :)

also they go by the name shane on occasion for the joakes

[bevirspnsblmnt]

Can we see your durge? :oc if not no worries I'm just curious!

Of course! Have a lil WIP of her in all her evil glory 🥰 (Hope I can finish this anytime in the next century lol)

Her name is Sandra, she's a war cleric of Gruumsh/oathbreaker paladin and she's Totally Bad Not Good Unredeemable. I haven't posted much about her bc I'm still in ACT1 with her (Im replaying Khael and campagn that takes priority).

fun fact before I even got through half of ACT1 of all the compainons only Astarion and Shadowheart were alive/present. I dont know how long theyre going to last though lmaooo

She's another iteration of my DnD character Alasandra, who Ive played for a couple years in a homebrew campagn! I also played with her in Solasta (another DnD game, that I suggest checking out!) He's all three of her together for the meme:

I also technically have a Redeemed Durge character that's based on another DnD character! His name is Chan, he's a warlock and a cinnamon roll who can do no wrong 🥹 (which makes me chosing him as a durge an awful parent)

and here's how he looks like!

[batsplat]

from the stuff i’ve heard marc’s former honda teammates (dani jorge and pol in their media careers but joan also i guess) say about him now that they’re racing is generally quite positive, both on a professional/riding level but also seemingly on a personal level? i’m wondering what you make of that given that, yeah, marc doesn’t seem like a very good teammate (unless you’re alex who i’ve left off this list). like MARC wants to separate on and off track stuff and it seems like all of these guys are willing too at least in retrospect, so he can’t have truly burned bridges with them. do you have any thoughts on that

(x, x) most riders are quite good at not burning bridges with each other! it's not like marc's competitors don't know that this stuff is kinda part of the game. I mean, all of marc's past teammates were also trying to assert themselves within the internal hierarchy... you can say that certain teammates engage in 'worse' behaviour than others, but, like, these people do understand they're supposed to be fighting each other! a baseline degree of nastiness is factored in and will be accepted to a greater or lesser extent by your rivals - especially when it comes to asserting yourself in intra-team power struggles. you might hate the other guy in the moment, but generally speaking once the active part of the rivalry is done with... you will probably get over it. marc's fellow riders are aware of how ultra-competitive marc is - and to a certain point they do respect it, not least because they're aware that this is part of the reason why marc has ended up with all those titles. it's like dani said, right, it's marc's strong suit. and in general, you do have to say that there's relatively few teammate pairings that devolve to the level of toxicity that it completely destroys the interpersonal relationship. you might need some level of preexisting animosity... most of the purely competitive sins can be healed with a little time

on the 'separating on-track and off-track' thing... well. this is kind of a question of how you define these things, you can say that marc generally speaking isn't going to massively hold grudges over isolated on-track incidents or whatever... but he doesn't just leave his fighting to the track, and personally I've also never felt he can entirely separate these things out in his mind. can you really say his professional and private relationships with other riders are completely detached from one another? mostly, he's opted to be pretty disengaged from his fellow riders as a collective, and obviously that's a good way to not take things too personally... it's all part of the game, isn't it? sometimes it's good to go with the straightforward approach: marc tells you he will make your life hell, he does indeed make your life hell, and then you both move on with your lives and can maybe actually have a pretty amiable relationship with him in years to come. he's not really defying your expectations at any point here, is he now? it's still a question for each of them as individuals as to whether they think that kind of behaviour is above board and acceptable or not... but everyone by now knows that marc plays these games, so it's not like they're going in blind

and it's not like other former teammates are constantly badmouthing each other. I mean... look, let's just cut to the chase here and bring in valentino as our reference point (as he is for the sport as a whole, which by the way does also help create a certain baseline of acceptability for marc's antics - maybe goated riders are just supposed to be dicks who knows). vale's premier class teammates were 1) nobody (2000-01), 2) tohru ukawa (2002), 3) nicky hayden (2003; 2011-12), 4) carlos checa (2004), 5) colin edwards (2005-2007), 6) jorge lorenzo (2008-10; 2013-16), 7) maverick vinales (2017-20), 8) franco morbidelli (2021), and 9) andrea dovizioso (2021). of these eight men (let's just exclude 'nobody' for now), do you know how many had serious complaints at any point about valentino as a teammate? that's right, it's one guy. one. some of valentino's other teammates, like hayden, checa and edwards, were even quite actively positive about their whole experience. this is the thing - you do need some specific circumstances for teammate rivalries to escalate from 'being kinda bitchy every other month' to 'actively fantasising about stabbing each other'. not accounting for natural interpersonal animosity, let's list some circumstantial factors that you need to get a bridge-burning-worthy level of feud:

you need a competitive bike. it is possible to beef about development direction when you're in the trenches (cf late 2010's yamaha, 2020's honda)... but generally speaking this is going to be quite low-level petty stuff, not actual war

you also need something that approaches competitiveness between teammates. if one teammate is unquestionably stronger than the other one, then it is very unlikely that you are going to get any open hostilities. the tension comes when the two sides are close enough to each other for the internal hierarchy to actually be a contentious issue (this is also basic self preservation... if you're the far weaker teammate then you do not want to make the situation troublesome, because then you will be the one to be fired)

following on from those first two things... well, it doesn't hurt to have a title fight in the mix. there are also other ways you can generate competitive stakes, like, for instance, if you and your teammate know that one of you will be out of a job soon. basically, it helps to have something to squabble over

it is maybe easy to forget how rare it is this century for teammates to be fighting directly for a title, let alone over the course of multiple seasons. only two 1-2's since the year 2000 and they're both for the factory yamaha's (though 2006, 2011-13 and 2017 did all prominently feature two factory hondas). which means that for valentino, the prerequisites were met just the once in his premier class career... and yes, the results were pretty memorable, but (topic! for! another! post!) it's worth pointing out that even that relationship was pretty much 'fine' whenever there was a sizeable disparity between the two of them performance-wise (2008 and 2013 are the most clear cut examples). I think the way I'd frame it with marc is that he has a bunch of mildly dubious strategies up his sleeve to assert himself within the team, which don't really deviate that far from what you'd expect from a rider of marc's calibre and only need to be escalated under specific circumstances. that doesn't mean he doesn't have the potential to be ruthless, but up until now it's mostly been a fairly 'acceptable' level of ruthlessness on the intra-team level... and not something that is likely to make other riders actually hate him

taking marc's teammates one by one... dani was the closest to meeting the bridge-burning prerequisites, though he was only a title rival in marc's rookie season. and marc did go further with him than he did with anyone else, and dani has made some pointed comments about marc's style as a teammate... but yes, he is fonder of marc these days. partly I'd just emphasise again that this is a fairly natural progression when you've stopped directly competing for long enough, and partly it's also just a question of individual personality - dani's not massively into holding grudges. then there's jorge, who... I mean, they might as well not have been teammates, given that jorge was either too slow or too injured to even be sharing any track space with marc. you have to put that one down primarily to circumstance, seeing as jorge's own track record on the teammate front isn't exactly spotless. marc and jorge beefing in 2019 would have been pretty dumb and also a massive waste of everyone's time in a year in which marc singlehandedly won the team's championship. even those two needed more to get things going

moving on to the dark years, pol and marc had an extremely stop-and-start partnership on a honda that was generally pretty uncompetitive... so the only stuff they could get ever so mildly irritable about were riveting incidents like 'marc saying pol wasn't the biggest championship threat' (neither of them were) or 'pol saying he'd copy marc's set up' (which proved entirely useless). not exactly title decider territory, is it now, and marc very much had pol covered as a challenger throughout their partnership. also, those two do have a longer history! they've known each other since they were kids and hold a pretty significant place in each other's careers. now that pol's more or less retired, it's natural there'll be quite a lot of sentimentality there - which will paper over any small cracks that appeared during those two years. and joan was a one year teammate at a time in which the bike was consistently close to offing them both. they only managed to start a sunday race together as teammates on thirteen occasions. it would take some serious effort to engineer a feud with that little opportunity, and, really, why on earth would you bother. maybe if honda had gone for rinsy rather than joan for the factory seat, it could've been a bit more prickly, but it's unlikely that it would have escalated beyond that

this is the thing, right, the only one of these partnerships that would have been worth burning bridges over was dani, and even there marc pretty much had him handled after the first season. in general, marc has been pretty clear on how he's not interested in making friends with the other side of the garage while the teammate relationship is ongoing... which is fine! there's some prominent-ish teammate pairings that are actually good friends, some teammate pairings where one of them is actively helping out and advising the other one, but some riders prefer to just keep their distance. it would have been a little silly of marc to start a feud with a teammate who is galaxies away from being a competitive threat, let alone a title rival, but generally it is possible to toe the line between 'attempting to suppress your internal rivals enough to stop them from becoming a problem for you' and 'taking radical enough action to make your internal rivals despise you'

especially in the post-dani era, marc never really had any need to push things too far... and, let's face it, how many of your teammate relationships end up with burnt bridges is also quite frankly a question of luck and circumstance. do you want to guess which top rider on paper has the worst track record this century with premier class teammate feuds, in terms of a) how many they've had, and b) how little public reconciliation there has been since the end of the rivalry?

yes, that's right, it's the first name that comes to mind when you're thinking of toxic and conflict-prone riders: andrea dovizioso. that old devil, constantly causing trouble. just couldn't stop undermining his poor, innocent teammates. can somebody please stop this ruthless bully before it's too late

I think you get the point. I would personally suggest that dovi is not in fact the worst teammate it is possible to have in a motogp top team. he just happened to find himself in a situation where he was teammates with two separate guys he did not click with at all, in situations that involved a pairing of riders who were (or had the potential to be) competitive with each other, as well as some proper stakes attached to the rivalry. in general, situational factors are going to determine this stuff more than anything else... and marc more often than not does have a reasonably good feel for picking his battles. he's flirted with the line, but he's mostly avoided crossing it. he hasn't had to

[mothsakura]

whhich silly is this

i think the obvious answer would be The Mauler, but the funniest answer would be Eye of the Storm

[random-human-being2311]

just finished Planet Of Fire part 2 and although I'm not as hopelessly sad at being close running out of turlough and 5 episodes as I was with 2, jamie and zoe it's started to hit me how I actually adore these characters and don't want to say goodbye to them. I'm not ready.

I mean, I saw Resurrection Of The Daleks earlier this afternoon and now I'm just spending the whole time watching peri in this serial going "pathetic. hopeless. tegan would never. #notmycompanion" because tegan is absolutely iconic and she's been there since goddamn Logopolis in season 18 and it's just plain weird not having her around anymore. Sorry peri but you haven't immediately caught my attention like tegan did

agghhh classic who really hitting you with the anticipation of having to say goodbye because you know what's coming next. With nuwho you don't know what's coming which is good for some other reasons but omfg the anticipation of knowing exactly when and how a companion departs from fandom osmosis and just watching you edge closer and closer and love the character more and more omfg it's PAIN and I'd never have it any other way.

Like when I was watching season 19 and the amazing shit like adric spend the whole dance just getting food in Black Orchid. And I was just like "omg just like me fr iconic i love it". And then it hit me that he's going to be blown up in a few episodes. He's going to fucking die.

[quietwingsinthesky]

Your. Thoughts. On. Destiel. Are. Fire. 🔥 Cas is a giant being of light the size of a Chrysler Building!! He burned out Pamela's eyes when he first appeared!! He made Jimmy Novak boil his hand in water to prove his faith and devotion. And while Cas does grow into a sad little meow meow over time (thanks to his contact with humanity) he is initially a terrifying creature from another plane of existence, which Dean in his infinite horny wisdom, manages to look at and go "I wanna fuck that because it terrifies me and I wanna obey because I barely understand my own kinks, which happen to be are being used like a hot wet rag and being subservient to a warrior of God stronger than me."

(I like destiel too, I just want it to be kinky and weird and monsterfucking adjacent)

Yeah, I'm honestly not very into destiel for the most part because a lot of the stuff that gets popular is either very bland to me or straight up frustrating to see (<- perpetually annoyed that people attribute all of Castiel's rebellion to "loving Dean") which means if I want to get invested in this ship, it's gotta get real weird, real fast. Destiel at its best is kinky and weird and slightly dubcon either because Castiel is a being beyond human comprehension who wants Dean and doesn't know how to deal with this except to take what he wants, offered or not, or because it's late seasons destiel and Castiel is very in love with a man who, even at the best of times, has a running counter in his head of how far over the line of monstrousness/betrayal Castiel is allowed to stray before Dean puts a bullet in his head like a hunter should (picture Dean and Castiel domestic bunker life with cute morning kisses and such, but Dean is the one with custody of Castiel's angel blade, just in case, and Castiel lets him have it because he's so screwed up about all the harm he's caused that he's accepted that if Dean kills him, it's for the best.)

it's gotta get freaky.

[moominpopzz]

I wonder if there’s been any times in the PDs friendship where Ashe got really worried she fucked up and, since she probably hasn’t had the ability to keep friends for long at any point since her mom died, she probably assumed the others were gonna leave her and so she started isolating herself again as soon as she thought it to try and not let them be the ones to leave,,,