#go on and go busters shaking hands over here

[shencomix]

Recently I decided to go to my local fighting game tournament.

Here's how it went.

I had been getting pretty good at Guilty Gear over the past few weeks, to the point where I was getting the input correctly for the Potemkin Buster 1 out of every 4 or 5 times I tried it. So I thought "I might not be the best yet, but, surely good enough for my local" -- and I decided to go.

It took place at a the comic & games store in the town center. The venue was full of people 10-15 years younger than me and even more drastically cooler. They all turned to glare at me as I walked through the door, but as I stood completely motionless like a gazelle hoping to blend into the grassland, their gazes slowly returned to each other and they continued to banter friendlily.

I sat down next to me first opponent, and reached out to shake their hand. They looked down at my hand, and then up at my eyes slowly.

"You're supposed to do that at the end of the match."

"Oh, s-sorry"

I got perfected twice and lost the match. At the end, I reached out again to shake their hand, but they just stood up and walked away.

Because I lost, I got moved down to the loser's bracket, which was literally below the main tournament because it took place in the basement of the comic shop. I could hear footsteps, cheering, and happy conversation in the floor above. Here in the loser's bracket though, the mood was a lot more somber.

My next opponent reminded me a little bit of me. They were equally nervous and disheveled looking. They said "Um, h-hello" and reached out their hand for a handshake as they saw me approaching. I said "you're s-supposed to do that at the end of the match." But as a look of deep sadness came over their face and they slowly put down their hand, I pulled them in for a hug.

I'm not sure why I did that.

I think that some part of me knew that, in this dark, dank, alien place, illuminated only by a single failing ceiling light and the neon glow of a few arcade machines, I had at last found a friend -- someone I understood, and who might understand me too.

They hugged back.

I lost that match by a very narrow margin, and as they jumped up and began dancing around and cheering ecstatically, I began to hate them. This was no friend of mine. A friend would not do this to me. After they were done dancing, they reached out to shake my hand. After a few seconds of pause, I stuck out my hand too, but didn't look at them and refused to close it around theirs as they grasped it. They shook my karate chop.

I thought that at that point, since I had lost and then lost in loser's bracket, I was free to go home. But one of the tournament organizers approached me and informed me that I was going down to sub-loser's bracket in the sub-basement of the store, and pointed me towards a descending staircase.

The people there were fewer, and it was darker. I could faintly hear sobbing in one of the corners, but as I went to investigate, another participant put his hand on my shoulder. He furrowed his brow in a look of pain and shook his head slowly.

"You can't do anything for them."

In sub-loser's bracket I went up against a man in a suit whose face was cloaked in shadow. He spammed May's dolphin move. I lost.

As I went to go back upstairs, one of the tournament organizers held out her palm to stop me, and pointed towards a staircase leading further down instead.

Going down through the levels, I lost to many interesting participants. One player played exclusively by bashing the controller against his face. One player was a mushroom with a few circuit cables clipped onto it, that I later learned was able to play because its bioelectrical signals got sent to a machine that interpreted them as fighting game inputs. One player didn't touch their controller at all, but instead just told me their life story, which was so tragic that I picked up their controller and won for them.

Finally, at the very bottom floor, where construction standards were long abandoned and the stairs and walls were just messily carved out of the earth's stone, I faced my final player. It was a small bit of metal framework, with a controller nestled in it. On it was a tiny piston that just pressed the jab button exactly once every second. I lost.

I hung my head for a moment, then said "close game" and stuck my hand out for a handshake, before remembering that I had played against a metal framework cube with a piston in it and retracting my hand slowly. Then I heard a slow clapping from the darkness.

"No neutral. No footsies."

Out of the darkness slowly walked a woman about my age, clad in a decorative poofy dress that looked more expensive than my entire life savings. She smiled at me warmly, continuing to clap slowly, but there was a hint of mischief in her eyes.

"No meter management. No mixups. No spacing. No learning. No strategy…

…You're perfect."

"Wh-what?"

"You're perfect. I absolutely must have you."

"Have me for…um…for what…"

(Her eyes went wide as her smile grew more manic.)

"WHY, MY MORON FAILSON HAREM OF COURSE."

"Um, I-I"

"Tell me, what do you do for a living? Let me guess, you work at a fast food restaurant? Or, retail?"

"No, I'm a--I'm a comic artist."

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!! Oh my god, you are PERFECT. What will it take to get you."

"To-to ge--"

"You would be well taken care of, of course. 3 Michelin star dining for every meal. Only the finest, softest sweatpants and sweatshirts, pre-stained with whatever flavor of Takis your little heart desires. You would have access to the entire mansion except for the main foyer when I'm in business calls, and you could make all the comics and play all the fighting games you want."

"I'm uh--"

I knew that I had to think fast here.

"I'm already i-in a moron failson harem."

"Oh, DARN IT!! TELL ME, WHO IS IT??? WHO GOT YOU??"

"I-I think I'm not allowed to s-sa--"

She stomped her foot petulantly, her shoe clacking against the stone floor.

"WAS IT SHUXUAN?? IT'S ALWAYS SHUXUAN HOGGING ALL OF THE GOOD ONES."

"I-I'm sorry," I blurted out, shuffling along the wall to make a wide radius around her and then running up the staircase.

As I got home and began making my standard dinner of Trader Joe's microwave falafel, I thought about her offer. Maybe I should have taken her up on it after all. A 3 Michelin star meal right now wouldn't be so bad.

Then I hopped on Guilty Gear and lost 22 matches in a row.

[keferon]

Still in the hospital but bored af so here's Part Two of fish dad

PART 2 of A Family can be A Fish and his Foster Kids

—-

Trailbreaker watched the mer approach their dock of concrete and broken cars, long tan body cutting through the water like butter. Soundwave held his hand tightly, Ravage curled around his shoulders. The twins and Windcharger were pressed against Trailbreaker’s back, the twins holding onto an arm each, Wrap on his left and TC on his right. Buster, TC’s service dog for his seizures, stood in front of his boy. Damus held Soundwave’s other hand in a vice grip, the cloths around his mangled hands dripping slightly, Skids behind him holding onto his shoulders.

The mer seemed to take them all in, large inhuman blue eyes tracking over one child to the next. It didn't make any more movement, except to lift it's torso out of the water.

Trailbreaker tensed as the mer revealed its true height, torso alone bigger than any human man. He took a half-step back, placing himself a little more firmly in front of the twins.

“He's so cool.” TC whispered softly, voice shattering the tense silence. Soundwave flinched back at the sound, his hat nearly falling off as the red glasses he used for his migraines fell a little off his nose.

“Dude!” Windcharger snapped, glaring at the other boy.

“It's true!” Warp said, voice raising in defense of his brother, his need to defend his twin overriding his fear.

And, in Trailbreaker’s opinion, his Goddamn Common Sense.

“Do…” Skids spoke up, running his hands over Damus’s wet hair nervously. "Do ye think th’ bloke’s friendly?” He asked, looking at Soundwave. “Th’ mers at th’ ‘quarium didn’ seem so bad, y’know. Not ta us kids.”

“Those were orcas.” Soundwave said slowly, squinting at the mer in front of them, still quietly watching the group of boys. "And trained to perform. We have no idea how this one will act.”

There was a moment of silence, before Thundercracker let go of Trailbreaker's arm and took a step forward, Buster by his side.

“I'm gonna go say hi.”

Trailbreaker made a move to grab TC’s shirt, fingers falling short as his brothers who were still holding onto him pulled him back.

“Wait, TC, no-” He called, only to be cut off by Ravage’s fur in his face, the cat having jumped off of Soundwave’s shoulders to follow the boy and dog.

Soundwave made a noise Trailbreaker never wanted to hear again but didn't move, all of them watching as TC walked up to the mer, dog and cat right next to him. Trailbreaker felt like he was going to pass out, heart pounding in his head.

“Hi!” Thundercracker said brightly, one hand on Buster’s head, the other held out as if the goddamn fish was going to SHAKE IT. Ravage wound herself around TC’s legs, sitting down on his feet like she could prevent the boy from moving any further.

Warp was trembling in Trailbreaker’s arms, barely held back from going to tackle his twin and bring him back to the group. Trailbreaker felt like Soundwave’s hand and Windcharger’s grip on his OWN shirt were the only things preventing him from grabbing the kid. (And maybe strangling him a little. He'd deserve it. Warp would have to understand)

A huge hand lifted out of the water, clawed and tan and big enough to crush TC like a fucking twig. The middle schooler didn't even flinch, keeping his own hand held out steady.

Trailbreaker practically felt Soundwave deflate as the mer gently shook Thundercracker’s tiny hand in its own much MUCH larger one.

“Guys, see?" Thundercracker said with a grin, wiping his hand off on his shirt, though that didn't help much. “He's nice!”

The mer looked back at their group, dipping lower into the water and smiling up at them.

“That's great, kid.” Trailbreaker said softly, trying to mentally teleport Thundercracker back to his side. “Can um- can you come back now?” He asked, trying to ignore how his voice cracked.

Ravage meowed loudly and jumped onto the mers head, provoking something that sounded suspiciously like a chirp from the fish itself. Soundwave’s cat, notorious for hating anybody and everybody except for Soundwave himself, settled into a loaf.

Soundwave let go of Trailbreaker’s hand to adjust his hat and glasses, sniffed once, and took a step forward, beginning to walk towards the fish with Skids and Damus in town.

“Ravage likes him.” He said simply in response to Trailbreaker's utter look of fear.

Trailbreaker took a breath, acknowledged that level of logic, and pulled Skywarp and Windcharger forward.

If nothing else, he could make sure the fish ate him FIRST, if it turned out they were wrong.

—----

HELP. Shockwave got cat-approved ahajakdmdmdbKFKDBDH OH THIS IS AMAZING

Just the. The mental image of this giant fish guy with tiny ass cat-loaf on his head??? I had to doodle it hehejej

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Just Friends: Isn't It Fun?

My warnings are not exhaustive but be aware this is a dark fic and may include potentially triggering topics. Please use your common sense when consuming content. I am not responsible for your decisions.

Character: Bucky Barnes

masterlist

Summary: You make a new friend.

It’s giving

As usual, I would appreciate any and all feedback. I’m happy to once more go on this adventure with all of you! Thank you in advance for your comments and for reblogging ❤️

You hum as you come up the walk of your building. It isn’t in the best location. In the dark, it’s scarier as a shadow overhangs the door beneath the awning. You reach into your knapsack, hanging from one shoulder, as you eke out the tune to Easy Street offkey.  

As your keys jingle, a shape pops out of the bushes and you scream, throwing the keyring as you turn to sprint back down the pavement. You’re caught from behind as a familiar chuckle rolls up into the moonlit sky. You grunt and elbow Bucky as you realise the trick he’s pulled. 

“Ah, why would you do that?” You wriggle until he lets you go. 

You face him and try to snarl but you’re so relieved it’s just him, you can’t help but smile. 

“Just having some fun. At your expense,” he chuckles and bends to pick up the keys. “Can I give you some advice, dreamy?” He raises your keys and holds them so one points between his fingers. “Keep your keys out, hold em like this and if some creep jumps out of the bushes, stab em good.” 

“Stab-- Buck,” you shake your head. “I can’t do that.” 

“You can if it’s life or death,” he swings the keys around to hang from his thick fingers, “here.” 

“What-- what are you even doing here?” 

“Huh. You didn’t let me ask my question first,” he huffs as he stands back and waves you past. “Why didn’t you tell me you were working late?” 

“Well, firstly, you got lots going on,” you say. “And I didn’t think of it. I’m fine.” 

“Fine, I could be a real bad guy waiting for you out here in the dark,” he taunts. 

“But you’re not. So now my turn, why are you here?” 

“Well, I was wandering by on my way to see a Buster Keaton marathon and thought maybe you’d be up for it...” 

“Tonight? Right now?” 

“I see,” he grabs the door as you opens it and holds it, “you’re too busy. Or maybe you’re too good for me.” 

You enter and he follows. It’s that familiarity that you just sort of fell into with him. He’s like a wise big brother, even if he really is older than your grandpa. It’s the most unexpected bonds that are the strongest. 

“No, not at all, Mr. Hero,” you climb the stairs as he stays a step behind, his hand on the railing right by yours. 

“Ugh, why doesn’t this place have an elevator?” He whines. 

“I thought the serum would give you extra strong legs,” you toss over your shoulder. 

“Whatever.” He clucks, “so how about it? You wanna fall asleep in the theatre with me, dreamy?” 

“Dream-- why do you call me that?” You head down towards your door. 

“You got your head in the clouds. Also, when you watch movies, you get this look in your eyes, like you’re living on screen. Dreamy. See.” He explains. 

“Mm,” you grumble. 

“You don’t like it? I put up with Buckaroo.” 

“That was once and it was a slip-up,” you unlock your door. “Fine, I’ll go with you since you don’t have any other friends.” 

“I have friends.” 

“Sure you do,” you snort and turn to give him a playful wink. You put your keys and bag down on the tall table. “You and Cap, the superfriends. Heroes and buddies til the end—whoa!” 

You hit the shoe rack and stumble, landing on your ass. Bucky is quick enough to save you but he doesn’t. He watches smugly and cackles as your cheeks burn up. 

“Not funny,” you pout. 

“Oh, it is very funny,” he approaches and offers his hand. “How’s that humble pie taste?” 

“Fine. I was being a meanie. I admit it but you got my adrenaline up. I can’t help it.” 

“Ha, yeah, that was good. You shoulda seen the look on your face. And that noise you made.” He hauls you up as his vibranium thumb rubs between your knuckles. “Ayeeeee!” 

“I don’t sound like that.” 

“You do.” He grins. You scowl and he laughs again. “You know I love that face. The day you actually get mad at me, I’ll be down on my knees, dreamy.” 

“Ugh, you are such a...” you let the sentence trail off and the dimple stays in in his cheek as he crosses his arms. 

“I’m a what?” 

“Nothing.” 

“No, say it,” he goads. 

“No.” 

“Come on, I can handle it. You know, I got hit by a truck the other day, I think I can take a few words.” 

“Hit by a truck? Bucky?” You squeal. “Are you okay?” 

“Ah, look at me. I’m fine. Not a scratch. That you can see,” he shrugs. “So what am I? Tell me.” 

“No,” you turn your nose up. 

“Say it. You’ll feel better.” 

“It’s... not nice.” 

“Come on,” he unfolds his arms and flutters his fingers at you, “I am trained in torture.” 

“No,” you grab his hands, his skin rough, “no tickles.” 

“So, tell me.” 

“Not fair,” you struggle to keep his hands away from your sides. 

“Almost...” he wiggles his fingertips a half-inch from your middle. 

“Brat! You’re a brat!” You step back, out of his reach. “Okay, and if you keep being one, you can go to the movies alone.” 

He laughs and grips his hips in victory, “wow, you know, I’ve actually never got that one. Creative.” 

“Right, well, I can’t sit in the theatre in this get-up,” you look down at your frilly plaid overall dress and white blouse.  

“I didn’t get to mention that yet. It’s a choice, as the young ones say.” 

You cringe, “it’s my work uniform.” 

“Uniform?” He squints. 

“Don’t, okay? I get enough guff from the customers.” 

“Guff? Oh, that’s language I understand.” 

“Ergh,” you stomp your foot. “You are so... so... old.” 

You turn and march away. He laughs and you turn into your bedroom. He just loves to tease you and despite your efforts, he always gets to you. At least he’ll have to be quiet during the movie. 

[oneforthemunny]

blurb game yay!!! shooting my shot here too: boxer!eddie (I MISS HIM AHHH), fluff, playful fighting 🥹🥹🥹

no bc i love him sm!!! this is so adorable ahh!!! this was actually so much fun, i love them being silly- sue me. i'll give a warning that they're a little drunk and silly in this one but it's super sweet and cute promise <3

"She's on the top ropes! What's she gonna do?" Eddie's exaggerated voice boomed off the walls of the hotel room, mixing with the infectious giggles that poured from your own lips.

You bounced on the edge of the bed above him, Eddie sprawled on the mattress below you, a sloppy grin spread over his features. You clutched the pillow, lifting it above your head, slamming it down dramatically with a grunt to his stomach.

"Oh! She's got me! She's got me!" Eddie groaned dramatically, turning to his side. "The ole ball buster's got me!"

"Hey!" You chirped, frowning at him though it wasn't very convincing, not with the laughs that were still bubbling over. "Watch it, Munson. Old?"

Eddie grinned, hands reaching to grab your knees, pulling you on top of him with a squeal. He rolled over top of you with ease, your loud shrieks and squeals deafening and his favorite sound all in one. His hands found your sides, lightly tickling under your rib cage so you bucked and screamed.

"Sorry, the beautiful ball buster." Eddie muttered, dodging your hand that broke free. His lips found your collarbones instead, playfully nipping at the skin there, sending you into another heaving fit of screaming laughs.

The night had started with a celebratory bottle of champagne, left in your room as a complimentary congratulations from the hotel on Eddie's win. Another bottle was ordered shortly after, arriving with your room service meal, and the Pay Per View code that tipsy Eddie had demanded.

"What even is this?" You'd frowned, a little tipsy from your own share of the bottle, teeth sinking into the fries.

"WWF?" Eddie's eyes lit up in shock. "You never watched wrestling? Stone Cold? Hulk Hogan?"

"No," You scoffed with an eye roll. "So this is what you do? But with costumes?"

"No, c'mon," Eddie snorted, shaking his head. "This is way more fun. Here, I'll show you. Let me put the moves on you."

You had half expected him to have you pinned to the mattress in a different way, hips snapping into yours furiously, leaving you drooling at shaking with pleasure. Instead, he'd popped the second bottle, standing on the chair in the corner, tapping his elbow before launching into the mattress dramatically. It was surprisingly silly, left you nearly choking on your fries with laughter.

He'd gotten you over his shoulders after a glass or two, shouting "Rock Bottom!" before flinging you onto the mattress easily, body sliding over yours, lifting your leg and pinning you while you cackled.

The roar of the announcers drowned out your own giggles, Eddie's slurring tone trying to match their cadence. "The Munsonator has her! Will she tap out? Tap out! Tap out!" Eddie boomed, fingers sinking into your hips.

"Never!" You screeched in laughter, tears leaking out of the corners of your eyes. "N-Never tap out." Your head spun, blood rushing mixing with the alcohol.

Your legs wrapped around Eddie's waist, twisting with all your might to roll him. Whether you'd actually rolled him or it was instinct, you weren't sure, but he rolled, his hands cradling your hip to steady you while yours pushed to his chest.

"Ah the ball buster's got me!" Eddie groaned, face smushing into the mattress when you pressed your palm to his cheek, pinning him there.

"Stop calling me that." You giggled, head tipping back. "I have a way better stage name than that."

"Yeah? What is it?" Eddie smirked, turning in your hold to look at you. "Joan Marie?"

"Who?" Your nose wrinkled with a snort of laughter. "No, I'd definitely go by something cool. Maybe, Elvira." Your eyes narrowed in the mean teasing way they always did, a little more exaggerated given your intoxicated state.

It made Eddie flush, cheeks burning with a rush of heat. Elvira, the movie the two of you watched the last time you got drunk like this. When you got a little loose, a little silly and sweet, and he did too. When he'd tell you little secrets more easily, less stoic and mean, softer. He'd lazily confessed to you that he'd always had a crush on Elvira, words slurred and the same half grin he was giving you now. You'd teased him endlessly about it, even sober, grinning as he'd shift with boyish embarrassment, trying to play it off.

"You're a little shit, you know that?" Eddie grinned, flinging you back onto the mattress like you were weightless. "You are the fuckin' Mistress of All Evil, that should be your name. You sho- hey! Ow! What the fuc- there's no biting in wrestling!" Eddie gaped, pulling his arm back, eyes glassy and wide with dramatic shock as he examined the teeth marks on his upper arm.

You grinned, sliding back from under him, sitting up on your knees. "C'mon, Munsonator, y-hic!-you know you like it." Your teeth bared, a little wobbly with the alcohol still in your system. "Now, let me show you my finisher."

[vulpixisananimal]

"Look out, everyone!"

(Your feet feel like lead weights. Your shoulders, your back, your arms, your head your BLINDING head!! You could barely think! Let alone fight!)

(Don't think about the pain. Keep breathing.)

(How, HOW!?! PLEASE tell me HOW I can think about ANYTHING!!!)

"Loop please!!!" (Someone your shoulder, it was. . . The. . . Housemaiden.) "We can handle it, please! Just go rest!"

"I'm fine!" (You take your shoulder back, no touch.) "I, I can't leave you guys to, to do this alone."

(That was only half true. The real reason you stayed is because you woke up ten minutes ago. Despite your best efforts, you drifted to sleep. Stars, how stupid could you be!!! Now you were stuck HERE. And every failure would make it worse!!)

"We might not have that luxury." (The. . . Researcher calls over, readying herself.) "If we can figure out how to stop them now then. . ."

(. . . You forgot. Didn't you.)

(The Housemaiden looks at you, worried, then to Ramos, or what used to be Ramos.) "Grrr, fine! But you'll answer for this, buster!!!"

(Haha, you were terrified.)

"Plan, Loop?" (The Carpenter yells, she's in position with her hammer near The Kid)

(Ramos. . . Stars, what was your Defender thinking! You barely caught whatever conversation they were having, and, he could have been mind controlled or-)

(You forgot their names. Didn't you. You remember Ramos but not them? Your friends?)

". . . Try not to kill it." (You pause, trying to think of a tasteful way to say it- oh never mind that!!) "It'll, it'll kill Ramos too."

"!!!!"

"Oh. . ."

"R-right." (The Researcher says.) "Right, I suppose that, might make sense."

(You don't have a plan.)

(Yeah, you know. . .)

". . . J-just, just, just-"

(You, you don't know what to do.)

"Here they come!" (The Defender called over, he positioned himself in front of you.) "Don't strain yourself, Loop, just, try and figure something out."

(Right. . .)

(You feel like your body is shattering.)

(ATK down, DEF down, SPD down.)

(You concentrate really hard to speed up your friends.) "Right, it can still confuse you, try to avoid getting hit."

"Okay- Wait! I know!" (The Housemaiden claps her hands, and you feel something like a warm blanket wrap around you. You laugh.)

"Remembered the carrot method, did we?" (You call over.)

"Oh, it just came to mind, y'know?" (She smiles back.)

"Dunno if it'll work, but it's worth a shot. Let's go!!!" (Your Defender, strikes a pose, you feel a little stronger, but, not much.)

"We'll need to stall for time." (The Researcher crafts her spell.) "I can slow it down, but we need a proper plan."

"I-I'll, I'm trying-"

(So are you the Traveler again, Loop? And I, the Shadow? The Sadness?)

(Shut UP, you KNOW you forgot!!)

(The Sadness cries out, looking between you all, before diving at The Housemaiden.)

"I got it!!" (The Carpenter dashed forward and intercepted the attack, blocking with her hammer.) "N-no issue!"

"Thank you!" (The Housemaiden ducked to the side and swiped out with her rapier, it scraped on the sadness, but didn't doo much damage.)

(You're slow.)

(You shake your head. Loop time, you rush forward with your dagger and take a stab at the sadness. You connect. It doesn't do a thing.)

(Oh.)

(You look up at the sadness. It looked at you, it had insanity in its eyes. Oh. You're very weak.)

"HEY!!!" (Before you noticed, The Kid had smacked the sadness, it recoiled and you stumbled back.) "BE CAREFULL YOU CRABFACE!!!"

"R-right." (You held your head in your hand. Stars, come on, come ON. You're starting to feel numb again.)

(Do you even care?)

"Ramos!!!" (The Defender cried out.) "C'mon buddy!!! Snap out of it!!!" (He strikes, the sadness intercepts it with its, hands?)

"I don't think they'll hear you." (The Researcher whiped her brow before holding out a palm. The creative craft blasted the sadness, making it recoil, then scream.)

(It charged at her and lashed out.)

"Hrrngh-"

"M'dame!!!"

"A-are you alright?!?"

"I-I'll be fine."

(You shake your head, no, no she wouldn't be, there would be confusion, and then, and then-)

(Swap with me.)

(What?!? After what you've done!?! You'll drain the last of our energy!!!)

(You've been fighting too long. You need a breather, I handle it, stars, you forgot their names.)

(Like I'd trust you! You'll kill us!!!)

(You're killing us, too. Loop, I promise, I'll be conservative. I'll be careful.)

(. . . . . .)

(You breathe in, and out. Stars, you really did feel like walking death. Just breathe, Mal, it's Mirabelle next, take your time, look around.)

(Mirabelle claps her hands again, sending some healing craft to Odile. They were talking, making some comment, it didn't matter. Just focus on the Sadness.)

(Sadness. . .)

(A thing born of the sadness from frozen peoples; can no longer tell friend from foe. You could have been a sadness, maybe. What a sight that would have been. Ramos looked sad, and they looked desperate. They didn't want to fight you. Hmm. . .)

(You guard.)

"Smart!" (Isa calls back.) "We got it handled!"

(No, you don't. Isabeau threw a rock symbol and punches, the blast of craft glancing the sadness' side. It didn't do much. Rock on rock, of course.)

(Odile stood up, she shook her head.) "I-I think I'm being, effected." (She guarded.)

"Crab!!!"

(You needed a plan. Think. Think.)

(Why a sadness? Sadness were born from those frozen in time by the King. Ramos wasn't frozen, and there was no time craft in play. Perhaps it was made from Mind Craft? If that's the case then what other crafts could summon a sadness. Come to think of it, Ramos' sadness never froze any of you in time like those in the house could.)

(Sadness is a powerful emotion after all. And that is the domain of the mind.)

(Mirabelle holds out a hand and crafts a paper spell, the Sadness recoils, rolls with the hit.)

(What was Ramos screaming? As they turned into a sadness. Was it to someone?)

(. . . You open your mouth. You call Ramos name.)

(You see your allies wince at your voice, Ramos screams back. You didn't understand it. How do sadness communicate, you wonder. You call Ramos again.)

"OW!!" (Nille yelps.) "Crab was that!?!"

(She'll be fine, maybe Ramos could understand- wait-)

(WAIT.)

(You turn.)

(The sadness screams again and charges at you.)

(You try and dodge away, but your feet are still like lead, it's-)

(It strikes you in the chest and throws you across the yard.)

(Stupid. Stupid stupid stupid. You got hit. You could feel your mind freezing up. You could, feel, your, mind. . .)

(Some "protector" you are.)

(You grip your head as a wave of nausea and strains run through you, swap. switch. tag out. can't. stay. I'm, sorry.)

(Was Ramos tugging at the star?)

"Loop!!!" (The Housemaiden ran over to you, a hand helping you up.)

(Your head. . .)

(Haha. . . You were going to diiiiieeeee~)

(You collapse back to the ground, gasping for air, keep breathing, c'mon, Loop, you need to keep breathing. Stupid, dumb. No, not stupid, it had a good Idea. Hah, Mal was being safe, and yet it still got hit. Actually, physically that hit wasn't that bad. But the lingering mind craft was still giving you waves of unease.)

(You feel the ground shake, you look up. The Carpenter had ran past you, charging at the Sadness, the Housemaiden cried out to stop her but, too late. She swung with her hammer and, sure, it hit, but the sadness just turned around and threw her accross the yard.)

(You're going to die. You're going to die again, and, and you won't be able to win.)

(The housemaiden, her name, what was her name! She stood between you and the sadness, hah, she was as weak to that thing as you were. She was so brave. . .)

(The sadness was coming towards you.)

(You're going to die.)

"Hey!!!" (Your Defender came swinging in from the side, striking at the sadness chest.)

(The sadness moved back, looked at the Defender, and attacked. It slashed acrross his chest, he tumbled backwards.)

(No, nonononononono.)

(The Housemaiden rushed forward, slicing at the sadness again and again. But, but, but the sadnnes just threw her to the side.)

(NO, NO, NO!!!)

(In Tears, And Time.)

(Blood. And. Stars.)

(You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die You're going to die-)

"H-Hah! Good hit, buddy."

(. . . What. . . ?)

(The sadness stepped back and turned. Your Defender was standing up, he, he should be KOed, by all rights he should be, but. But he's still here, standing. His face, you could tell he was straining. The sadness screamed at him.)

(He closed his eyes, straining, but, he didn't fall.)

"I'm, I-I'm not, giving up, buddy. Rams."

(What, what is he. . .)

(The sadness attacked again, but the Defender, he wasn't even phased, he blocked them.) "I'm, I'm not gonna give up on you, buddy!!"

(He's, he, he-)

"You promised to never forget you're strong! So I promise, I'll be there for ya when you can't!!"

(. . . Isabeau. . .)

"We're gonna find a way to help you! And we're gonna fix this, we're gonna do it! And we're gonna do it together!!"

(He strikes a pose- Wait, that's--)

"We're gonna win!! Together!!!"

(It is. Stars, it is! It's that, it's that skill! That one Stardust always was able to get but YOU WEREN'T!!! IT's, IT-)

(You feel warmth through your veins. You stand up.)

(You're going to win.)

(You're going to win if it killed you.)

(Keep going.)

"Isa!!" (You yell as you run.) "Ramos!! What'd they say about the star!!"

"Huh?!?" (He turns to you as you get to his side.) "He said someone gave it to them!"

(Someone GAVE it to them?)

(Wishes aren't given. You're given the tools for them. Wishes aren't an item. Wishes- It's not a wish.)

(IT'S NOT A WISH!)

(IT'S, IT'S A TRICK!!)

"I GOT IT!!" (You smile, hehehehe. You had a plan. You rushed at the sadness, it screamed and lashed out at you.)

"Loop what-" (Isa yells, running to catch up.)

(You sidestep it, focus, focus. You grab onto the sadness tendrils, hopefully your gloves would be enough to stop the mind craft.)

"I have a plan!!" (You yell back,) "Try keeping it distracted!!"

(Isa nods. You lift yourself up onto the sadness' body. It's writhing, screaming, rattling through your head but still you persist. Not, yet. Isabeau strikes at the sadness, distracting it.)

(Hand, over hand, you grab onto the sadness head, it screams again, so loud. You feel numb, your legs, your fingers, just, keep, your, grip. Just, think, one thing, one target.)

"L-loop!!!" (You feel warmth wash over you, looking back, Mirabelle had ran over to help and healed you.) "P-please just be careful!!"

(You were way past careful. You pull yourself up, once, twice, again, again.)

(You grab onto the star upon its head, and tug.)

(It comes free.)

(You fly back off of the sadness, tumbling to the ground. You could feel the second wind of energy starting to dwindle again, but just a little bit more, please. You lift your head up to look.)

(The star landed at Isabeaus foot, The Sadness, it looked maddened. It charged at Isabeau, screaming.)

(Isabeau opened his arms.)

(As soon as it started, it was over, in a flash of light.)

(Ramos tumbled into Isabeaus arms, crying their brains out.)

(. . .)

(Did. . . Did you Win?)

(. . . You breathe out.)

(Mirabelle is now level 46)

(Odile is now level 46)

(Isabeau is now level 46. . . And learned the skill "WE! WILL! WIN!!!")

(Nille is now level 19)

"Loop!!!" (Mirabelle ran over to you and offered a hand, you took it. She helped you to your feet.) "A-are you alright?!?! Are you hurt?!? Where are you-"

"Slow down, Mira, I'm fine-" (Both a lie and too late. She was already fussing over a gash in your side. When did you get that?)

"You are absolutely not fine!!! You look like, like-!!"

"Hey go easy on em'." (Nille said, Bonnie was helping her over.) "Did just save the day after all."

(It, it's not over though, right?)

"THAT WAS SO COOL!!!" (Bonnie, by contrast, was full of energy and a-okay.) "I didn't know you could do stuff like that!!"

(It, it couldn't have been that easy.)

(You hid your face in your cloak.) "It was just a hunch it would work." (Stars, you feel so tired.)

"!!!!" (Mirabelle went running to Odile. Looking over, she was sitting on the grass rubbing her head.)

(It just, couldn't have been that easy.)

"Hah, healers job is never done I guess." (Nille said cheekily.)

(Bonnie turned to you.) "Dontch'ya know healing craft too?"

(Oh right.) "Oh! Are, are you two hurt?"

"I'll be fine, had a tonic. And my heads clearing up." (Nille said with a thumbs up.) "Those two though. . ."

(She gestured to Isabeau and Ramos. You could hear Ramos cries from here.)

"R-right. . ."

(You head over to them. Isa looks up as you approach. He looked, so, so happy.)

". . . It, it worked!" (He smiled at you.)

(It, it was that easy?!?)

(It, it can't have been, right?!?)

(He continued.) "I, I feel fine, Ramos is shaken up but fine. What about you? Any effects?"

(You stare at him. He's, fine? Ramos is fine? What? You, you felt. . .)

(Isa tilts his head.) ". . . Loop-"

"We won?" (You ask.)

(He's giving you the biggest smile you've ever see.) "Yeah!! We won!!"

(But, but that was, so fast. How did, how did you do it? It, this can't be it, right? You'll smell burnt sugar soon or see something red or-)

". . . H-hey. . ."

(You look down, Ramos had turned to look at you. They looked like a mess, they were crying still. They looked, they looked-)

"I-I'm, I'm sorry." (They mumble.)

(After all that. They're sorry. After all that time. After all that pain. That, that-)

"Y-you, you're. . ." (You say, feel dizzy.)

"Hey, Loop are you okay?" (Isabeau asks.)

"You're so, so. . . (The world is spinning.)

(You can't think straight. You feel numb. You can't feel your legs, your arms, you can't, can't, can't. . .)

"Yyyou're so, stuupid. . ."

(Curtains fall. Piper; payed.)

(You black out.)

[razzellyn]

Happy Holidays, Happy New Year, Happy Everybody!

MCB & Reader

Reader is called Emsy because

M= Em

C= Sy

Therefore

Em + Sy = Emsy

°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°

The blankets were all carefully laid out on the grass. Food, snacks, and drinks were placed neatly on the blanket, enough food to fill almost two blankets full. You couldn't be any more excited. After having to explain exactly why this day was going to be special to the bots, you managed to gather everyone you knew to this little party.

Fairy lights hung from tree to tree, branch to branch, dimly lighting up the hill with its soft glow. There was a table on the side, used merely to store some extra foods and firecrackers. You knew it would all be a hassle to clean up alone, but you couldn't have cared less.

Now, the only thing left to do, is to wait for them to arrive...

░░░░░░░░░░░░

It had only been an hour, yet it almost seemed like the whole world was here with you! The bots were careful enough around the little space you've made, treading lightly whenever they had to pass by. Sure, there's already a few accidents here and there, but you managed through with a smile.

"Emsy! Thank you for inviting us!"

A voice you had long gotten accustomed to greeted you softly. Jun's mother had always been a delight to be around with.

"It's no problem, just thought it'd be nice to have everyone around for this."

"Well, isn't that sweet! I've brought a couple of things that Jun liked to eat, some fuel for the bots too!"

You simply thanked her and went back to tidying up a mess that Mega Trucker had made, her attention was already on Buffalo Crush anyway. You find yourself smiling at the scene, before something—or someone— tapped on your shoulder.

"Do you need assistance, Emsy?"

Blue Cop appeared, seemingly out of nowhere. It almost scared you at first, but you were quick to regain your composure.

"Not at the moment, no. Just keep an eye out for the others first will you?"

"Of course."

He answered, though he seemed a little disappointed. Perhaps he was really looking forward to helping? You'll have to apologize later if it makes him sad. Either way, you still had a mess to clean up.

░░░░░░░░░░░░

8:25 PM.

"Are you two serious right now?"

You say, as Black Hook and Heavy Iron stared into each other's eyes—optics—whatever they called it. Shaking your head in disbelief, an idea suddenly caught in your mind. You handed them a cleaning rag.

"... What-?"

You cut him off before you could speak any further.

"Clean the mess you two made!"

"Tsk, as if we'd-"

"Clean or you're not invited!"

For some reason, with that sentence alone, they immediately went to work. You let out a satisfied huff as you watched them work. You could even hear a slight chuckle from a voice you distinctly remember as Buster Gallon.

"What a bunch of idiots."

░░░░░░░░░░░░

9:00 PM.

Setting up the fireworks were... surprisingly easy. Sure, Phoenix Fire were reciting what could possibly go wrong, but Mega Ambler had been there to calm him down. Albeit, slightly calmed him down. You could tell he was still a bit stressed out.

"It's not that bad."

You spoke out softly, walking over to where Phoenix Fire stood just a few feet away from the fireworks.

He sighed, or at least sounded like he did. He was looking at you with worry.

"I know, I know. I just... I wanted to make sure."

It was quite endearing how concerned he was for everyone, but at the same time it could be a little bit too much. Still, you gave him your best smile, hoping that it would ease his worries.

"I can see why you'd be worried. But don't worry, everything is under control!"

"Hrmn... I hope so."

Seems like he still needs some convincing. But it's no problem, you've always been good at making others feel better! You gently placed a hand on his arm, patting softly, wondering if he could even feel that.

He seemed to be, as he glanced down at you with his optics, and you smiled up at him.

"Well, if something were to happen... I've got you and Mega Ambler to assist, don't i?"

Phoenix Fire pondered your words for a moment, then he smiled. Well, he can't. But you can always tell with their optics.

"Yeah... You've got me! Don't worry, I'll keep you—all of you—safe!"

And out of the corner of your eye, you could see Mega Ambler nodding as a thank you your way.

░░░░░░░░░░░░

10:41 PM.

"Again?!"

You exclaimed loudly as you stared at Mega Trucker and Shadow X, both desperately trying to fix the hanging lights they 'accidentally' kicked off the tree. They stared at you with wide optics, before Shadow X quickly pointed toward Mega Trucker.

"He did it!"

He vanished immediately.

"Wha- hey?! Where do you think you're going?!"

Mega Trucker pointlessly swung his arm around in the air. All the while he was scooting away from you, slowly but slowly.

"And where do you think you're going, hmmm?"

Mega Trucker paused for a moment, before deciding to make a break for it. Before you could even stop him however, a loud thud echoed through the air. For a moment you were scared to turn around, but when you did you couldn't have been more surprised.

Wild Guardy was seen, dragging a seemingly unconscious Mega Trucker by his arm.

"I hope he's not bothering you."

He spoke ever so calmly. Meanwhile you were too stunned by what happened to be able to verbally answer, and instead gave him a nod.

At least that's one problem down.

░░░░░░░░░░░░

11:30 PM.

"What... Are you guys up to?"

Well actually, you didn't really need to ask. It's obvious just what happened here. Dexter has managed to lure Blue Cop and Buffalo Crush to hold and play with stray cats.

Safe to say, Blue Cop feels awkward holding them, yet Buffalo Crush was definitely amazed by them.

"They're playing with strays that Dexter has managed to catch."

Fleta Z answered, seemingly out of nowhere. Perhaps he had noticed that the other three have yet to notice you.

Not that you minded, they looked so silly like this! You decided to just take a picture of them with your phone.

░░░░░░░░░░░░

• 11:50 PM.

As of now, everyone has gathered around. Some sat on the blankets or close to it, while only a few were still helping setting up the fireworks. Those few, of course, included you. Helping Edo and Jun's father to set up the fireworks.

At some point, Jun, Theo, and Anna approached. Deciding that they'd lend a hand in however way they can.

• 11:55 PM.

Can you believe it? Ha, you couldn't! 2024 has ended, and a new year awaits you. You don't even know what lies ahead of you. But seeing all these people around you, these friends, family, and even strangers...

It makes you feel as if everything would be okay.

And it will be.

And as you sat on the blanket, alongside everyone that you knew, looking up at the sky, awaiting the lights decorating them, there is only one thing that i want to tell you.

Thank you.

00:00 PM.

[fattummyt]

Bruce Banner (Professor Hulk)/Plus-Sized Brown Woman Reader - Firsts - Ch. 1/4

Bruce was the last to round out my fanfic share poll but revisiting this fic has inspired me to share all 4 chapters!

Summary: A collection of your first times with Bruce Banner (Professor Hulk).

Tags: meet cute, humor, fluff, domestic bliss, strangers to lovers, first time, yearning, short and sweet

Warnings: None! (❁´◡`❁)

Author's Notes: Y/N = Your name. Chapters 1-4 will be posted over the next few days! Chapter 2 contains smut that's probably what everyone is here for and will be up tomorrow!

Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Read the whole fic on AO3 here!

Bruce sighed. "Her flight was delayed so she can't answer the phone and…" He lowered his head, shrugging his shoulders a bit. "I just, really miss her." Tapping the laser cutter nervously against the desk. "Ugh. Puppy love. Makes me sick." Tony sneered, fake gagging himself with his finger before Bruce poked him in the side.

Chapter 1: Meet-Cute-ing

You and Bruce met a few months ago during your trip to Japan. You coincidentally crossed paths—not that it was difficult to spot him. He was a giant, green, beast man and was steady followed by a crowd wherever he went. You were convinced the man was in costume but quickly learned that wasn't the case as it soon began to rain and the crowd dispersed. As a thoughtful but pointless gesture of kindness you offered him your Gudetama parasol umbrella, but ended up staying out all night talking.

Your travels in Japan promptly met its end, and when talks of life in the States began, you both soon learned that new jobs would force you both to relocate. You managed to maintain your relationship despite the long distance, and talked every night—Both chronic night owls in an early bird's world.

It was nearing the holidays when you smooth-talked your residency committee into letting you spend December at home. Which isn't in your city, or his state, but that feeling you get whenever you're with Bruce.

He couldn't have been more excited to have you meet everyone. This elusive, often fabled woman (according to Tony) was finally going to meet his ' family'...After your delayed, 1 am flight, of course.

"Laser cutter." Tony called from underneath the suspended Hulk Buster armour.

He jut his hand out, grabbing around aimlessly.

"Bruce. Laser cutter."

After another period of silence, he flailed his hand exaggeratedly.

"Laser cutter, please?"

Fed up, he slapped his hand against the floor, sliding out from under Mach 44's foot and rising to his feet to find Bruce leaned over the desktop computer, completely oblivious to him.

Tony pursed his lips as he quietly strolled, approaching Bruce from behind before promptly shouting. "Robert Banner— if you don't hand me the effing laser cutter!"

Bruce shouted, flinching his shoulders into his neck. "Christ, Tony!" Bruce turned away, rubbing his ears.

"What are you doing that's so damn important that it warrants interrupting repairs?"

"Nothing. I— was just checking my emails really quick."

Tony scoffed, "Nice try. Even in that Hulk body, your ears still twitch when you lie.”

Tony shouldered Bruce in the side, grabbing the computer monitor and facing it toward him. Tony blinked, looking inquisitively up at Bruce.

"Why are you looking at airline arrival schedules?"

Bruce sighed. "Her flight was delayed so she can't answer the phone and…" He lowered his head, shrugging his shoulders a bit. "I just, really miss her." Tapping the laser cutter nervously against the desk.

"Ugh. Puppy love. Makes me sick." Tony sneered, fake gagging himself with his finger before Bruce poked him in the side.

"Ah—hey!"

"Doesn't feel too good does it?"

"I poked you with a pen. You just poked me with a tool capable of turning my appendix into vinaigrette."

Tony snatched it from his hand, shaking his head as he turned and slid back underneath the Mach 44.

Bruce tiptoed, quickly typing up your flight number before Tony stomped his feet and screamed. "GET. THE HELL. OVER HERE." 

Read the fic on AO3! | Read more of my fics on Tumblr | Patreon | Website

[purplemagics-blog]

ART THE CLOWN FINDS A KID!? LITTLE GIRL/KID READER!!🦝🤡🖤🩶🤍

“The monster gone. He’s on the run, and your daddy’s here.❤️”

Warning: descriptions of g0re, mentions of drugs, abused y/n, forth wall break lmao, cliffhanger (sorry), please tell me if I missed anything.

Backstory of Y/N: She had a happy life before everything went downhill on her 5th birthday when her parents divorce. Y/N’s mom would do dr7gs and abuse and blame Y/N for everything and Y/N only escape was her going to her dad but sooner or later the mom was suing for full custody and that made Y/N sad.

ART THE CLOWN HAS A FUCKING FATHER BONE IN HIS BODY! DO Y’ALL NOT REMEMBER THE LITTLE PALE GIRL!? SHE WAS BASICALLY HIS KID (i think) I LIKE TO THINK HE COULD BE A GIRL DAD!😖

Art the clown was no man of love or a family man. He lived for killing and slaughtering innocent people for the fun of it. He had broken into a house where he saw a woman popping pills and drinking wine while arguing with someone over the phone. He would just usually just kill the woman but then he saw a little girl not older then 5 or a younger looking 6 year old? You. You were sitting in the corner shaking and crying. You had so very obvious had been beaten by the woman and were trying to keep quiet. Well Art had 2 plans: 1.) kill you and your mother, 2.) kill the mom and take the kid in. Well tbh if this was in the actual movie he would kill you and your mom but since you are the main character in a fanfic made by the weird girl you’re going to live lmao (I love breaking the forth wall. Not sorry :3). Art walks up to your mom and grabs her by her hair and pulls her to the floor even ripping some of her hair out. You watch this scene with a scared gasp and hiding your face in your tiny hands. Art digs his tumps into the woman’s eyes as she screams at the top of her lungs. Art was has a wicked smile on his lips and then he rips the skin off the woman’s cheeks as she still is screaming. As you hear this you couldn’t hear this anymore as you pick up your favorite stuff animal a stuffed raccoon your father gave you before your parents separated and you ran to your room. You hid under the covers of your bed. After a couple of hours the screaming stopped and Art slowly walked into your room. You did a terrible job at hiding under the covers but as he pulled the blankets off of you. You looked at him. He was covered head to toe in blood and he did try his best to not scare you but be still somewhat did. He picked you up as you kicked and screamed and he made his way out the house.

“GET OFF!!”

You whine even if it won’t work. He found a car and broke into the back set and buckled you into a buster seat and you continued to kick and scream but Art was just worried about getting you far away from this apartment and life. He got into the front seat and started driving. You sooner or later tired yourself out and fell asleep gluching your stuffed raccoon in your arms. You woke on a floor with a little pale girl looking down at you. You screamed in fear pelting backwards but Art was just sitting in a chair making something until he heard you and then he turned in his set. He tried to comfort you by crouching in front of you trying to calm you down for a moment. After a couple of years of being in the care of Art and the little pale girl you liked it there. The little pale girl was like a sister and Art was like you guy’s dad!

IM SO SORRY IF YOU WANT A PT 2 I WILL MAKE ONE BUT FOR NOW I RAN OUT OF IDEAS FOR THIS😖 BYE

[bustermoonsposts]

THIS ONE IS LONGER I PROMISE UUU

Angela from smosh cus i ran out of headers

 He tried his best to drive steady, hands shaking. God, I haven’t driven a car in what…fifteen years, he thought while driving down Broad St. It was dead silent. He pulled over, sat still, he prayed to whatever GOD was out there that this was a dream that he would wake up and get to work and see his friends safe and as normal as the little troup they had were he opened his eyes wide, reached for his phone, and called someone…

Ring

Ring

Ring

“H-hello?” the person on the other line answerd

“Rosita, are you ok…?” Rosita couldn't make it tonight because one of her kids, Casper, had a doctor's appointment at the same time as the show so she had to leave early and only had a part at the beginning of the 1-hour show (and Casper was always a little fighter at the doctor's)

“Yeah uhm me and Casper are still at the hospital-and uh there are the uh doctors and their eyes are glowing and their acting hostile” rosita said with a shaky breath her fingers digging into her phone

“Yeah…the others were too…there was an explosion or something at the local science lab, a weird goo it makes people go loco its very weird…” Buster said restarting the truck “which hospital are you at ill come pick you up-”

“ we’re at the ocean side hospital”

“Ocean side? That’s very far”

“Its the only one that'll take us”

“Alright”

“Im on my way……”

CHAPTER 2 the hospital

About half an hour later Buster arrives in the hospital parking lot taking a deep breath and looking through the truck for some type of weapon (yknow since its big daddys car he has to have something like a-) “A gun!?” he practically screamed, there were no bullets so he could…throw it at someone…??? Whatever he’ll think about it when or if he's in danger he enters the hospital the automatic doors making a loud screech hurting his ears as they pin against his head he looks around for what he can see

SO MANY INFECTED patients doctors nurses you name it, ITS A NIGHTMARE!!!

Buster's heart raced as he stepped into the chaotic scene of the hospital. The fluorescent lights flickered overhead, casting an eerie glow on the faces of the infected. He scanned the waiting area, eyes darting from one distressed figure to another, searching for Rosita and Casper. “Stay calm, stay focused,” he whispered to himself, gripping the steering wheel of anxiety in his gut. He spotted a nurse staggering toward him, her clothes stained with something that resembled a thick, viscous goo. Her eyes were wide, vacant, devoid of recognition. “Hey!” Buster called out, but she only groaned in response, lurching unsteadily. He sidestepped quickly and headed toward the triage room, knowing that he had to find them fast. He pushed through the double doors, taking in the sight: frightened patients huddled together, some covered in the bizarre substance, others moaning in despair. Buster felt the panic rising, but he had to push it down. “Rosita!” he called, straining to keep his voice steady. “Casper!” There was no response at first, just the sounds of distress echoing off the walls. He moved deeper into the room, his heart pounding in his chest. Then, through the chaos, he heard a familiar voice. “Buster!” came Rosita’s shaky cry from a corner of the room. He turned abruptly, spotting her crouched beside a curtain, clutching Casper close. The boy's face was pale, but he was safe, at least for now. “Thank God!” Buster rushed over, dodging an infected nurse who stumbled past him, moaning. “Are you two okay?” “I-I think so,” Rosita stammered, her eyes wide with fear. “But we can’t stay here! They—they keep coming!” Buster quickly scanned the area and noticed a door at the far end of the room. “We need to move. Can you walk, Casper?” He knelt down, meeting the boy’s gaze. Casper nodded, albeit a bit hesitantly. “Okay, we’re getting out of here,” Buster said, offering his hand. Rosita gently helped her son to his feet, and they began to make their way toward the exit. As they approached the door, a loud crash echoed through the room. A group of infected burst in, their eyes gleaming with a chaotic frenzy. Buster’s instincts kicked in. “Run!” he yelled, pushing Rosita and Casper ahead of him. He turned to face the incoming tide, raising the gun he had found earlier—the heavy metal felt oddly comforting in his grip. “Get to the door!” he shouted again, his voice fighting against the rising fear. Rosita and Casper sprinted toward the exit, while Buster squeezed the trigger. It clicked empty, but it was enough to draw the attention of the infected momentarily. He hurled the gun toward the nearest figure, just to buy them a second or two. “Go, go, go!” he shouted, backing toward his friends as they reached the door. He grabbed the handle, pulling it open as he dodged to the side, urging Rosita and Casper outside. They stumbled into the cool night air, gasping for breath. “Over here!” Buster pointed toward his truck parked nearby, the headlights cutting through the darkness. They took off running, adrenaline propelling them forward. Once they reached the truck, Buster quickly yanked open the door and helped Rosita and Casper in. “Get buckled!” he ordered, hopping into the driver’s seat and slamming the door shut behind him. Rosita strapped Casper in with shaking hands. As Buster turned the ignition, the engine roared to life, cutting through the sounds of chaos behind them. He peeled out of the parking lot, the hospital fading in the rearview mirror.

[lilaberri]

I had this idea since the fan edits video. Matt’s fall freak out was completely warranted and I thought a fic of the reader meeting him at a pumpkin patch would be cute.

🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃

September 21st you wake from your restless sleep. You had went to bed early but the excitement for the next day kept you up. As you looked outside from your bathroom you saw a fog settle low to the ground, perfect pumpkin patch weather. It was getting colder as the month went on and the leaves were beginning to change as well. Lilly texted the day before that she would pick you up by 11.

As you turn off the shower and enter your closet you try to find an outfit that is cute but also tactile. Settling on a navy blue cable knit sweater, medium wash jeans, and some old carhartt boots.

You get dressed and see you have a few minutes to grab something to eat before Lilly arrives. There wasn’t much you wanted in the fridge so you settled on some crunchy Raisin Bran. It wasn’t too bad once you added some blueberries and bananas.

Drinking the last of the milk you hear a honk and place the bowl in the dishwasher get your keys and hop in the car. “Hey,” you say all smiley.

“What’s up with you?” She drives off with Kesha in the background. “It’s so nice today all dark and stormy.” “Some would call this bad weather.” “Well it’s good for picking pumpkins , very fall.” “True, you can have aux if you want.” “Yeah thanks I’ve had this song stuck in my head all morning,” you play iyaz’s Replay. “Okay throwback,” she chuckles. “It’s so good makes me think of my pink iPod deck. I wonder what happened to that?” “Your brother threw it off the balcony because you wouldn’t stop playing Hannah Montana.” “That demon has been praying on my downfall since I was born!”

Pulling into the patch lot you see only a few other cars, which was nice since you wanted to take pictures too. “I’ll pay and you get the gloves and lay down the tarp,” Lilly says. “Why’d you bring gloves?” “I just got my nails done. And the dirt under my fingernails would freak me out,” she replied. With a nod you go to the trunk finding the gloves and spreading out the tarp. “The guy working was really cute, he told me the best place in the patch was the fourth row.” “Thank you cute patch man,” you joke.

Walking along the rows you see a few small ones you wanted to get for the house and then saw the perfect pumpkin. No warts, curly vines, deep orange color. You go to call over your friend but when you turn around a man is trying to lift it up. “Hey freeze!” “Did you just tell me to freeze?” He asks. “That’s my pumpkin.” “Then why is it in my hands?” “Im wondering the same thing.” “And while you figure that out I’m going to my car,” he retorts. “No way I saw this one first he’s mine.” “It’s just a pumpkin. There’s like a hundred more just like it.” “No this is the best one by far. But since you think there are other good one I’ll just take this one off your hands.” You reach for it but he pulls it from your grasp quickly. His eyes widen in disbelief. “You did not just try to steal my pumpkin?” “Please, I’ll give you,” you go to dig in your purse but came up empty. Only a Dave and Busters power card, three mints, and a nickel. Your surprised expression makes him giggle. “I don’t want your money. But since you want it so bad I’ll give it to you, for a price.” “I literally only have mints and a nickel in here so it’s not much of a prize.” You didn’t want him to know about the power card, you were an avid D&B patron. “You have to help me find one that is just as good.” “Okay deal,” you go to shake his hand but he lifts the pumpkin and you just pat it instead. “Onwards- what’s your name?” “Matthew.” “Onwards Matthew!”

[danses-with-dogmeat]

M is for... The Mysterious Stranger

Ohhhhh, this one had SO MUCH potential for SO MANY things, and I just... I hope that my excitement surrounding this character and his mysteriousness and the abundance of potential there shines through in this piece <3

Golly, I hope you all love it! Cuz honestly I was SO excited to share this one with y'all :)

And here is the 2k event masterlist, for your browsing pleasure!

--

Pair: Mysterious Stranger & g/n! Sole (but who used to go by Nora)

Dialogue: “I never should’ve left you alone.”

Word: Memory

Rating: SFW

Category: Angst

Word Count: 2k

Maybe this was wrong of me… After all, the Stranger’s always been helpful, more than anything. Is it fair for me to trick him like this?

Sole gulped, anxiety fluttering in their belly, even as Nick gave them a solid nod from his hiding place. 

I’ll have to borrow his confidence, they decided, And his curiosity. 

Just then, the hired gun across the way set loose a rain of bullets in their direction, just as planned, and that inexplicable feeling rose up in them, that call to the void for aid in the form of the mysterious, cloaked man. 

Who, just as inexplicably, appeared from nowhere, right where Sole and Nick had planned, had expected. Before his own bullet, fired with an expert precision Sole had only seen once before in their life, could land upon the man they’d hired to put them in false danger, Nick pounced. 

The Mysterious Stranger tried to duck away, his coat billowing in the chaos, but Nick’s hold was too tight. He had him. 

“Quick, Sole! Help me get a hold on him.” Nick growled through the effort of wrestling with the tall man. 

Sole could only move slowly, unconsciously half-hoping that he would escape, that he could remain a mystery.

After this, how can I expect help from him again? How many times he’s saved my ass, and this is how we repay him… 

More than anything, it felt like a betrayal. 

Could Nick’s curiosity, could their own being satisfied, really make this worth it?  

The Mysterious Stranger’s face remained covered, all through the scuffle, his hat brim low, and the collar of his trench coat high. Trying to differentiate between the synth detective and this strange man was difficult enough on its own, with the way they rolled upon the dusty road beneath them. 

“Sole!” They heard Nick’s shout from within the dust cloud. “You wanna, ah, give me a hand here?” 

Finally, that had them springing to action, their own hands reaching out to pin the shoulders in front of them. 

Thank goodness they were the right ones. 

The man was panting as Nick managed to pin the rest of his body to the ground, synthetic hands holding firm to his arms, while Nick sat and straddled his dress slack-donned legs. 

“Alright, buster, you’ve been caught.” 

The stranger let out a grunt of his own, as he made one last-ditch effort to escape his assailants, but all that managed to do was knock the hat from his head. 

Then everything froze. 

Sole’s hands went limp where they rested on his shoulders, and the stranger’s eyes, those eyes stayed wide as they locked to theirs. But he stayed still. He didn’t try to flee, but nor did he speak a word. 

Quick breaths continued to escape him as Sole’s expression fogged over, first with shock, then confusion, and lastly, fury. 

Shaking their head in utter disbelief, Sole released his shoulders completely, and got to their feet. 

“Sole? What is it?” Nick continued holding the man down, but he hadn’t struggled. Not since Sole saw who he was. “Or rather, who is it?”

Golden eyes shone as they looked down to the stranger, then back to his partner. 

To think… Sole’s head continued shaking, the wheels in their mind spinning so quickly they were damn-near ready to break off of their hinges. All that I believed to be true. All this time… 

“You remember…” Sole whispered, a cold fierceness accompanying their words. “I told you I had a husband once, but that he was dead? Killed by the Institute? Guess I had that bit wrong…” 

Their gaze glossed over the man on the floor, in favor of looking to Nick directly. 

“Nick, meet Nate.” 

“What?” Nick blinked at them, then down to the man he’d captured. “Now, how do you figure that… Didn’t you say there was ahh, well, a body?” 

“Yeah, well,” Sole turned and began picking up their things, tossing a bag of caps to the hired gun before waving the relieved bystander on his way. “The Institute’s been known to have a few tricks up its sleeve. Wouldn’t shock me to find out that they’re planting fake corpses around.” 

At that, Nick released him. A disgusted look rested on the synth’s lined face as he stood up himself and dusted off his trench coat. 

“You got anything to say to that?” He prompted the ‘stranger,' a fierceness akin to their own hardening his voice.

“I can explain, Nora.” 

The voice sent chills up Sole's spine, making them feel sick, but also… home at the very same time. 

“Haven’t you been listening? They don’t go by that name anymore.” Nick practically snarled in their defense. 

“I’m sorry, sorry, I just…” He stuttered, but slowly, Nate made a move to stand up. 

And surprisingly, Nick let him; though his brows were hard over his shining eyes as he continued to regard Sole's... not-so-late spouse.

Now that he was at his usual height, Sole felt like banging their head against a wall. 

How the hell did I not guess this? His height, his accuracy, even the type of gun he uses, all dead giveaways. How could I have been so blind?

At the look on their face, Nick must’ve guessed what they were thinking. 

“He’s supposed to be dead, doll.” A cool hand placed itself on their shoulder as they looked to the ground. “No way you coulda known he wasn’t.” 

They nodded at that, their expression solemn. 

“Why did you do it, then, Nate? Or should I even call you that?” 

“I haven’t gone by Nate in a long time. Since… since before the bombs fell, but… Sole, I don’t know quite how to tell you this…” 

“Nothing you say will be more shocking than what I’ve already discovered today, so might as well just spit it out.” 

Visibly, he gulped, and Nate’s gloved fingers fiddled with the pockets of his trench coat. 

That’s an old habit. Sole’s mind reminded them without permission. All the wedding photos, and his hands are fidgeting with the shallow pockets of his suit jacket. 

I pretended to be angry, but really…I just found it endearing. 

They didn’t feel that way now. 

“I thought I was him, thought I was your Nate…” 

My Nate… 

Their chest gave a painful ache that went, frustratingly, straight to their tear ducts. 

“But I was wrong. All those memories… fabricated. Taken from journal entries, from photos and memories that Father believed would’ve been housed in his late father’s mind. But it was a sham. A trick he’d had in mind, I think… Maybe he was telling the truth, maybe he really did want a father in his life, wanted family... but, when I found out I was a synth, and when I found out about the kid he’d made. Our kid– or, yours.”

Nate shook his head, the pale lines on his face becoming more pronounced with every elongated instant of this painful conversation. 

Sole actually found themself feeling a twinge of pity alongside their continuing shock. 

“I don’t know. It’s all so… messed up, everything that he’s done. Trying to trick you, making me, some mockery of the old Nate, and then… after I found out the truth, when he realized I’d gone through his terminal, well… let’s just say it wasn’t easy getting out of there in one piece.” 

Nick blinked, his mouth half-open as he took in the story. 

“Unfortunately, all that seems pretty on-brand for the people who made me...” The detective added solemnly.

Nate nodded his agreement, his eyes downcast. 

“The Railroad helped a lot, but I had to escape them too, once I realized they wanted to erase my memories. I... couldn’t let them, couldn’t turn my back on your husband’s story, not when it was the only man I could imagine being. Even if I was… I don’t know, false?” 

Sole turned to Nick, just as the old synth sighed. 

“Boy, do I know the feeling… Not so different, you and I. No wonder I was so drawn to finding out the truth about ya.” 

“Right…” Nate rubbed at the back of his neck, another old habit Sole had been fond of. Hell, they’d actually counted how many times he’d done that on their first date. They seemed to remember the number being in the double digits. Why he’d been so nervous having dinner with them, they never knew, but still… another endearing characteristic of the man they’d loved. 

“You’ve been awfully quiet, Sole…” His voice roused them from the memories. 

“Yeah… I just, well… Why didn’t you approach me sooner? I mean, this ‘Mysterious Stranger’ business has been going on for months now. Why did you never think to come out and explain yourself?” 

“I guess I was scared.” He admitted, but they could see he’d thought about this answer before. Maybe he’d even counted on them finding out his identity one of these days. 

“I knew how much you’d been through, and… as much as I wanted to see you safe, as much as I felt this need to help you, I was afraid that you’d turn me away. I know deep down that I never should've left you alone, the way that I did, but if you refused me..."

He sighed heavily, and Sole noted the genuine pain written upon his face.

They always hated seeing him this way, his brows scrunched, eyes glistening, lips drawn downwards. It was like his hurt bled through his expression, and right back into them.

"Then… I don’t know what I’d do. Knowing you’re out here, but not being able to protect you? The old Nate would haunt my dreams until I officially lost my mind.” 

He let out a nervous chuckle at the end, but Sole still just had confusion written in their furrowed brows. 

“So, what? Then you just planned on spying on me for the rest of my days, but never actually making contact? What kind of life would that be?” 

“I don’t know," He shrugged, "one that I deserve, I guess. I never had any delusions that you could care about me the way you did your real husband, and to be honest, I’m not sure how much of that Father would’ve gotten right in the first place, I mean… Did you even like the guy? Nate, I mean… I know that marriage back then wasn’t always for... love, and I’m under no–” 

“Did I like him?” Sole scoffed at that. 

Isn’t it obvious?

“Nate, I… I loved him.” 

Nate’s eyes, that vibrance Sole knew so well that they frequently saw it in their dreams, grew wide at their confession. 

“I loved him from the start." They continued, "Him and Shaun, loved them with everything in me… But they were both lost to me, one way or another. I had to try and shut out those feelings or… I didn’t know quite how to go on. I lost so much all at once, even before being frozen, when the world went up in flames. But I thought I could make it, if I had my family by my side, I’d be okay. But then…”

“Then the Institute happened.” Nate’s voice was dark with malice as he spat the name of the faction that had made him, and then betrayed him. 

That had betrayed them both. 

“I’m… I know it can’t mean much to you, but, all the same… I’m so sorry for everything that happened. For everything they did to you. You deserved so much better.” 

Sole’s glistening eyes snapped to him, and there was a sternness there that nearly made Nate recoil. 

“Can’t mean much… Nate, it means the world to me.” 

Tentatively, Sole stepped forward, and they felt Nick’s gaze lingering on them as they reached out a hand and brushed it over one of Nate’s broad shoulders. 

“You’ve been through hell, just the same as me. Shaun… Father, he did this to us, and much as I’d love to forgive him, much as I wish he was the boy I wanted to know, or the man I always dreamed he’d grow up to be, he was lost to me– to us, the moment the Institute stole him away. With him… I fear there’s no second chances.” 

Their voice cracked at the painfully true words, and Nate’s own expression reflected that hurt, his dark eyebrows creased, his bottom lip giving a melancholic twitch. 

“But with us… Maybe that doesn’t have to be the case.” 

[juanysusalchica]

Fang x Pregnant! Reader Headcanons

This wasn’t the first time you were pregnant; in fact, this was your third pregnancy.

When you revealed the news to Fang, he was shocked; unlike the previous pregnancies where he expressed pure joy and excitement, this time however he looked at you with a frightening face, fearing that it would happen all over again.

This was because you had the misfortune to have miscarriages, on your first pregnancy you had a mild fever and you did a grave mistake in consuming pills that lead you to abort the child, as much you didn’t want to, you were forced to continue the abortion. For your second baby, you and Fang waited for around three years to try again, allowing your body to heal physically, when the results came you were overjoyed at the excited news of having rainbow baby.

Everything went great until you start to notice that your pregnancy symptoms were disappearing and the next thing you knew, you were already at the hospital, laying on the stiff, cold bed with a dissociate stare, on the meantime Fang sat next to the bed as he held your hand squeezing it lightly, whispering reassuring words to you as he tried his best to contain his tears, needed to be brave for you. And now, here you are staring deeply at the pink stick with two bold lines that rested on your palm, yours hands was beginning to shake.

You both were undecided whether to have the baby or abort it, but after days of negotiating, you and Fang finally made the decision to continue the pregnancy.

Don’t get him wrong, Fang doesn’t want you to get rid of it, you’re literally growing a life inside of you. A life that you both made together but after experiencing the deaths of his previous children, he didn’t want to relive the experience, he didn't want you to go through this pain again.

Fang likes to showoff, it’s just his nature. He would’ve immediately run up to tell Buster and Maisie the news of having a child with you but this time you both kept the pregnancy in secret, you guys didn’t want to give them false hope like the previous ones.

Fang isn’t good at cooking. He insisted that he’ll try to learn in making you healthy meals but the last time he tried to fix you up some dinner, but he ended up burning the rice and the meat was still raw on the inside. Of course, you had to convince him not to in multiples times.

As months went by as your stomach began to grow, you were forced to get maternity clothes since you felt snug on your ones. Fang worked extra hours on the cinema to gather enough money to buy you the new set of clothes, you truly appreciate it. Literally is what made you fall in love with him in the first place. Surprisingly, you have never reached to this phase of your pregnancy, but you tried not to get attached with it, who knows if this baby might even survive.

When he saw your baby-bump for the first time, he was thrilled, he couldn’t contain his excitement to stretch out his hand to feel the tender baby laying dormant within you. Just when he was about to rest his palm on your stomach, you swat his hand and moved inches away from him. Fang looked at you with wide eyes, stunned by your sudden reaction.

“Please don’t touch me… I don’t want to have your hands on me.” You shook your head, holding tightly on your oversized shirt to hide your growing body. You didn’t want anyone one to touch you or your baby, afraid that the constant touching might cause another miscarriage and you didn’t want to risk it.

Fang noticed how often you avoid looking yourself in the mirror and would wear baggy, oversized clothes to hide your pregnant body. It was obvious that this pregnancy was affecting you, the way you saw your round body with disgust says it all. The following day, you woke up and noticed that majority of the mirrors of his apartment were either put away or covered with sheets.

It took almost three weeks later until you finally grew comfortable with your new body, as the two of you were cuddling while watching a movie together, without muttering a word, you grabbed one of his hands and guided towards your baby-bump and waited for his reaction.

Fang tensed up by this sudden movement but slowly relaxes as he furrowed his brow with deep concentration, until a faint gasp escaped from his lips when he felt his developing infant kick against his red gloved hand as a way to say ‘hello’. He dove down, trailing his lips on your round tummy to kiss his infant.

“It’s going to be okay… I just know it, you will be in our arms one day.” he whispered, petting his hands carefully on the baby-bump. His eyes fired with determination for he was sure that this time it will all be different, hoping with anticipation that you’ll finally meet this precious child that you created together.

[justhilary123]

Curse of the WereMouse Chapter 3

*The Next Morning*

*Freyja is seen, laying on her bed, her alarm goes off and she wakes up*

Freyja: *yawns* I hope Mickey’s okay. I think I better go make sure he’s okay.

*Outside in the neighborhood*

Freyja: *Comes outside, wearing her pink fair maiden dress* Let’s go check up on Mickey.

*Freyja heads on over to Mickey’s house.*

Mickey: *comes downstairs, wearing his usual red shorts with white buttons, white gloves and yellow shoes* Coming! *opens the door*

Freyja: There’s our number one mouse.

Mickey: Golly! Hi, Freyja!

Freyja: I figured I come down here and see how you’re doing.

Mickey: Oh. I’m fine! *his tummy gave a loud rumble*

Freyja: Whoa! What was that?!

Mickey: *rubs his tummy* It’s only my tummy rumbling! I’m getting hungry. Ya know, I was about to go make some breakfast after I got dressed and did some washing up. Care to join me, princess?

Freyja: You bet! *her phone calls* It’s Leela. Hold on! *She answers the phone* What’s up, Creature Girl Leela!

Leela: Hi, Freyja! Think you can come over here after breakfast?

Freyja: Okay. I’m about to go have some breakfast with Mickey.

Leela: I see. Well. Ethan and I will see you later after breakfast.

Freyja: Okay. *hangs up*

Mickey: C’mon, Freyja! Let’s head to the kitchen for breakfast!

*After breakfast, Freyja went to visit Leela and Ethan.*

Freyja: So, how did the research go, Leela?

Leela: So far so good! Believe me. That was no ordinary wolf that attacked you guys last night. This is much more serious. Turns out that creature that attacked you guys is actually a werewolf.

???: Did someone say, werewolf?

*A man with a beard, a tan jacket, tan pants, black boots and a camouflage cap appeared.*

Leela: Who are you?

Wallace: Wallace McDuffy, at your service.

Leela: What are you doing here, Wallace?

Wallace: I came into this world looking for a werewolf. And I know a werewolf when I see one. And I’m planning on tracking it down and catching it.

Leela: There’s no way you’re gonna do that. As the creature girl, I ordered you to leave. Now! *kicks Wallace out*

Wallace: You haven’t heard the last of…

Ethan: I think we have, Buster! *Closes the door*

Wallace: Those brats would regret the day they ever heard of Wallace McDuffy!

Leela: Right then. Where were we?

Ethan: The werewolf?

Leela: Right! Werewolves are spooky creatures with fur, sharp claws and bushy tails.

Freyja: Oh my gosh! That is scary! It must’ve happened while we were with Colin and Josephine in the woods last night.

Leela: This is not good. Tonight’s a full moon.

Ethan: In that case, we better whip up an antidote.

Leela: You read my mind.

*Meanwhile, Hilary was visiting Mickey*

Hilary: I wonder what kind of fun we’re gonna be having today.

*She noticed Mickey wearing a vampire costume.*

Mickey: Ready to show off what you can boo?

Hilary: Ready!

Mickey: Yay! It’ll be a treat to use our imaginations together!

Hilary: So, what’s it going to be this time?

Mickey: Let’s pretend to be werewolves!

Hilary: *gasps* Werewolves?! Oh boy!

Mickey: Start by getting down on all fours! *He and Hilary both got down on all fours* Shake your fur and sharpen those claws! Now, lift your head and howl at the moon.

Mickey and Hilary: *howling*

Mickey: Hot dog! Pluto would love this game. *He stood up and helps Hilary to her feet* Oh. I’ve had such a howling good time imagining with you.

Hilary: *her phone rings* It’s Leela! *she answers the phone* Hello! Werewolves R Us!

Leela: Hilary! We’ve got a serious problem right now. Not only have we discovered that there’s a werewolf on the loose, but, we also got a hunter named Wallace who is after the beast.

Hilary: Not good at all! Hold on! I’ll be there in a minute. *hangs up* Mickey! I gotta go! Leela needs help with a creature.

Mickey: Okay. See ya later!

Hilary: Just Remember what Leela said, if anything goes wrong. Let me know. *she walks away*

Mickey: Hmm. I wonder what that is all about. Oh. Well.

*The Park*

Leela: *Claps her hands* Okay, guys. There are lives at stake and with the full moon coming out tonight and a werewolf that’s on the loose, everything could change quickly.

Ethan: Luckily, Leela, Freyja and I whipped up an antidote.

Freyja: For the antidote, we added a tuft of werewolf fur, wolfsbane, moonbeam and a sprig of dill.

Leela: All we have to do is find the werewolf, cure him with the antidote and blammo, all our problems are solved.

Hilary: Wait. What about the Wallace part?

Leela: Oh. Right. Wallace! We need to make sure he can’t catch that werewolf.

*Later that night, Mickey went to go see Pluto.*

Mickey: Hiya, Pluto! You won’t believe what we did today. This morning, Freyja came over for breakfast and earlier today, Hilary and I pretended to be werewolves. *got down on all fours* And I figured you would love this game!

Pluto: *barks, then, howls*

Mickey: *howls*

*The moon is seen, shining bright in the night sky*

Pluto: *gasps, then, barks*

Mickey: What is it, Pluto?

*Pluto went into a pointer bit, pointing toward the clouds moving to reveal the full moon*

Mickey: Oh no! Pluto! Run! Go get help! Get the kids! You gotta help me! Tell them I’m in danger! Before it’s too late! Go!

*Pluto runs off as Mickey’s transformation slowly begins*

Mickey: *his body starts to rapidly change, his teeth sharpen into fangs, his fingers sharpen as the claws come out, his tail gets all bushy, his shoes ripped and he becomes furry, as his red shorts with white buttons ripped. His eyes closed, now they are a golden yellow color*

*A long shot of the neighborhood*

*A loud howl is heard*

(To be continued...)

[zipzapzopzoop]

There's a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow

Chapter 18: Slipping Through My Fingers All the Time

Franny dropped him without a second thought.

In a fraction of a second, Franny’s anger changed to confusion. She took a step back, trying to understand what was going on.

With nowhere to run, the stranger slumped to the floor and seemed to curl in on himself. Only then did Franny notice the cord and guard attached to the gun she was holding.

“Mom?” 

Franny jolted when the door opened and Wilbur began to walk in. 

“Mom, are you okay? I heard something break.” Franny frantically motioned him out. “Stay in the hall! Don’t come in!” Despite looking startled and confused, Wilbur obeyed.

“What’s happening?” He called.

“I don’t know yet, just stay there! And shut the door!”

Wilbur did so. He waited in the hall for a minute. 

Suddenly there was the sound of something getting knocked over in another room. Who’s there…? 

Wilbur headed towards the noise in the darkness of the house.

Back in the storage room, Franny blindly felt around the walls until she found a lightswitch. 

The light came on, and even without the helmet and goggles, Franny recognized him in a heartbeat. He may be her nephew, but from the moment his mother abandoned him and his sister, Franny and Cornelius stepped up, and he became like another child to her. She didn’t know whether to be relieved to find him or upset that she had attacked him.

“Laszlo! I’m so sorry, I had no idea it was you!”

He didn’t look up at her. Instead he stayed with his face buried in his knees, breathing heavily. She suddenly realized he was having a panic attack. 

For the third time in two minutes, she went into mother bear mode.

Franny kneeled by him. “Honey, look at me.”

A choked sob escaped his throat, and he hugged himself tightly. “Shoot,” she muttered. This is a bad one. He doesn’t have his medicine, that's still in the future. She looked around. His goggles. That might be why he wouldn’t look up. It was discovered a few years ago that when Laszlo was anxious, his goggles always helped.

Franny retrieved them and tried again. “Lasz, look at me. It’s okay, I have your goggles.” Slowly, Laszlo glanced up at her with tearful eyes. He looked at the goggles in her hand and gently reached out to take them. Franny rubbed his shoulder lovingly. He was shaking like a leaf. “It’s okay...”

Laszlo slipped the goggles over his eyes, and Franny could tell almost immediately that they were calming him down. His breathing began to slow, and his shivering lessened. He sniffed and wiped away a couple stray tears that slipped from his eyes. He struggled with anxiety almost all his life, so Franny always knew what to look out for.

She also always knew what helped. 

Gently as a mother could, she pulled him into a warm embrace.

“I-I’m sorry, I didn’t.. I just… I… I thought…” His voice cracked and broke.

“Shh... just take a second and breathe.”

Franny began to sing quietly, the same way she did when he was little. 

When Petunia first abandoned him. 

 As she sang, he closed his eyes and listened, calming down enough to understand that he was safe, and that nobody was going to hurt him. Not here. By the time the song had finished, he was doing much better. Franny’s music could help anyone in times of need.

“I’m sorry, I thought you were somebody else. There were some men that tried to kidnap me. If it wasn't for Buster and Uncle Art, I don't know where I'd be right now. Usually I can bounce right back from situations, but for whatever reason this one just really got to me. I just… yeah.”

Franny’s eyes widened. “Wait, hang on. Someone tried to kidnap you?! Who?!”

“I don’t know who they were. Some men creeping through an alleyway. Their faces were just… so creepy. I can’t stop thinking about them.”

Franny felt like her heart fell through the floor. Her brothers. Her family. Cornelius.

Someone’s trying to hunt them down.

------

Check out the chapter on my Archive!

[kudosmyhero]

Transformers #1

Read Date: November 13, 2023 Cover Date: October 2023 ● Writer: Daniel Warren Johnson ● Art: Daniel Warren Johnson ● Colorist: Mike Spicer ● Letterer: Rus Wooton ● Editor: Sean Mackiewicz ●

**HERE BE SPOILERS: Skip ahead to the fan art/podcast to avoid spoilers (👏=didn't like it, 👏👏=it was ok, 👏👏👏=I liked it, 👏👏👏👏=I really liked it!, 👏👏👏👏👏=I loved it!)

Reactions As I Read: ● new Transformers! this might help alleviate my disappointment that IDW lost the licensing ● first page is already heavy. jeez! (I'm here for it) ● is this Spike and Sparkplug Witwicky? are they alluding that Buster died? ● Carly's van is EPIC

● that… was a long-ass fall. I'm not sure Carly and Spike should have been able to get up and move around after that 😳 ● Starscream is on the ship with the Autobots? I'm so curious of what has happened! ● 100 years of war is a little easier to wrap one's head around than millions of years of war ● oh, Jetfire. why would Starscream be the one you choose to wake up first? ● dude, that panel of Optimus Prime bent clear over backwards in his attack on Starscream is rather creepy… but it emphasizes the fact these guys are robots ● I thought one of O.P.'s eyes were damaged?* ● Ratchet 💜 ● Soundwave ♥️ ● where Starscream shot Bumblebee in the face… will he not be able to speak in this version, I wonder? like in the movies? ● wait--Bumblebee isn't dead, is he? nah… right? ● *OH, his eye was repaired when the Teletraan thing woke him up ● JESUS! poor Dave! ● 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏

Synopsis: Spike Witwicky finds his father, Sparkplug, asleep in a bar. Spike asks his father how long he’s been there, to which Danny the bartender answers since noon. Sparkplug notices that Spike has his brother Jimmy's telescope with him. Spike tells him that he and Carly were planning to go up to Hanger's Rock to look at the full moon. He says it helps him remember Jimmy, to which Sparkplug grouses that it's better to just forget. Spike fires back at his father, telling him he won't end up like Jimmy. Meanwhile, another patron is drunkenly ranting about how he saw a giant boxy jet fly down from space. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Sparkplug's co-worker, Davey, here to pick him up for their shifts. Sparkplug tells Spike that he has to grow up eventually, to which Spike angrily asks if he means being like him. As the adults drive off, Carly arrives to pick Spike up in her van. Carly consoles a dejected Spike by suggesting they go "pretend they're on another planet."

At Hanger's Rock, the pair climb the mountain in search of a better view and discuss their future ambitions. Spike has recently been accepted to the University of California, Berkeley, where he wishes to follow in Jimmy's footsteps and become an astronaut, though he's reluctant to actually tell his father about it since Jimmy's death. Carly, meanwhile, has been looking at art schools, but she and her father are struggling to make it work financially. Carly takes Spike's hand in hers, telling him how sorry she is about what’s going on with his family. As the two teenagers lean in closer, an earthquake shakes the ground, causing the mountain to split open and sending the two plummeting into the depths below. Recovering, they find themselves inside a giant circular structure — the booster of a giant spacecraft. Spike ventures further inside the spacecraft and finds the main control room, littered with the mangled bodies of what appears to be some sort of giant robots.

Jetfire flies into the Ark and transforms, grateful to have found his fallen friends. He activates Teletraan One to repair and reconstruct his fellow Cybertronians, granting them new forms he found on Earth. The first to be reactivated is Starscream. Jetfire warmly greets his old friend, having not seen him in centuries. Starscream thanks Jetfire for waking him and says that he's glad he "picked the right side" before immediately turning to the nearby Bumblebee and blasting his head off. The stunned Jetfire, unaware that their people have been at war for the past hundred years, tries to stop him, but Starscream turns his weapons on his old friend for showing weakness. Starscream aims his weapon at Jazz next, but he is stopped by a reconstructed Optimus Prime!

As the Autobot leader and Decepticon warrior fight, Prime notices the humans and instinctively dives to protect them from Starscream’s fire. Starscream's attack is halted by the intervention of Ratchet, right as Teletraan One reconstructs Skywarp. Realizing the computer is reconstructing them randomly, Starscream tells Skywarp to bring their fellow Decepticons closer. Optimus realizes that the Decepticons will outnumber them and orders a retreat, telling Ratchet to load their fellow Autobots into his new form's trailer while he fends off their opponents. He reaches for his ion blaster but is intercepted by cannon fire from a revived Soundwave. As he recovers, he sees Bumblebee's remains, cradling him in despair before being beset by Starscream and Ravage. Seeing this, Spike and Carly run out and push Prime's blaster to him, allowing him to fight back.

Left with no choice, Optimus fires at Teletraan One, destroying the computer and preventing the remaining Decepticons from being reconstructed. As Teletraan explodes, Optimus grabs Carly and Spike. He and Ratchet transform and drive out of the Ark into the mountains below, Starscream and Skywarp in hot pursuit despite their low energon levels. Jetfire regains consciousness and follows after them, firing on Starscream much to his regret. Starscream volleys back, critically wounding Jetfire. Fortunately for the Autobots, Skywarp begins to run out of energy and the Seekers are forced to retreat.

Needing to recuperate, Spike leads the Autobots to an abandoned quarry. As he succumbs to his injuries, Jetfire apologizes to Optimus; so much has changed since he left Cybertron in hopes of saving it. Optimus tries to use the Matrix of Leadership to heal Jetfire, but Ratchet tells him that his injuries are too great. Optimus grips his old friend's hand as he passes, still lamenting his failure.

Back in the Ark, Soundwave reports to Starscream that he is unable to fix Teletraan One, as they lack both the energon and the raw materials necessary. Until it is repaired, they are the only Decepticons left. Soundwave has already sent Laserbeak to scout for possible energon sources, but the job of harvesting it falls to Starscream since he has the most energon reserved. Begrudgingly, Starscream accepts. After all, he is leader of the Decepticons now.

As Davey and Sparkplug end their shift at the nearby power plant, Davey tries to talk to Sparkplug about his recent troubles, but they are interrupted by the arrival of Starscream, irritated he has to be the one doing all the work. The pair try to escape, but Starscream notices them. Sparkplug hides inside the plant, while Davey is snatched up by the giant alien. Starscream smiles to himself as he crushes Davey in his hand, amused at how fragile, squishy, and pathetic the humans are.

(https://tfwiki.net/wiki/Transformers_(2023)_issue_1)

Fan Art: IDW Transformers TCM Variant by uncannyknack

[myveryownfanfiction]

18+ MINORS AND THOSE WITHOUT AGE IN BIO DNI

tags: @eclecticwildflowers, @illiana-mystery

Warnings: swearing, blood, injuries

AN: I’m assuming hardly anyone knows this movie but it’s called renegades with kiefer sutherland and Lou diamond phillips and considering my weekend I’m writing this now.

I sat on the couch next to hank. Buster was late and I was growing more and more nervous. My leg was bouncing, the only outlet I could think of for my energy.

“he’ll be here (Y/N).” Hank assured me, putting a hand on my knee. I hung my head and nodded.

“I know. I know.” I sighed, looking over at him. “Just buster was on me to make sure my schedule was clear since you were coming to visit and then he goes and does this.” I waved my hand at the door.

“He’s a cop (Y/N).” Hank laughed. “You know he’s on call whenever. Buster will be here.” I nodded again and got up.

“want something to drink?” I asked, wringing my hands. I had to do something and this was the best I could do. The door opened at that moment and hank stood up. Buster looked at us and gave me a small smile.

“hi. Sorry I’m late.” He kicked the door closed with his foot. That was when I noticed his hand on his side.

“what did you do buster?” Hank asked with a sigh. “What did you do?” Buster gave me a small smile and shrugged.

“brought a gun to a knife fight.” He tried to joke, his hand pulling away slightly. His palm was red with blood and I shook my head, holding out my arm to usher him towards the bathroom.

“and you lost?” I asked, shaking my head at him as he took the hint and started walking.

“how dumb are you?” Hank added as he sat back down on the couch. Buster opened his mouth but I grabbed his hand and dragged him into the bathroom.

“answer that and I’ll make you go to the hospital instead.” I threatened. “And you know they’ll call someone from the precinct to come check up on you. And I don’t think you want that.” Buster shook his head as he carefully peeled off his jacket and flannel shirt.

“yeah. You have a point.” He grumbled as he sat down on the bathtub. I went through the closet to find the first aid kit. Opening it up, I went to work.

“It isn’t that bad actually.” I murmured as I set about cleaning up the blood. “So a gun to a knife fight and you lost.” My eyes flickered up to buster.

“yeah.” He sighed. “I wasn’t paying attention and the cops were coming and I panicked.” I nodded as I bandaged his arm.

“well you’re all set.” I sighed as I threw away all the garbage and put the kit back. Moving between busters legs, I cupped his cheeks. “You know I worry about you. And I know what you’re going to say. That you’re a cop you have this handled. But I still do.” Buster smiled up at me and kissed my palm. “I love you buster.” I whispered as I leaned down to kiss him. Buster hummed against my lips before standing up. Breaking the kiss, he smiled at me.

“and now we just have to survive dinner with hank.” He teased. I rolled my eyes.

“you have to survive it.” I shot back. Buster grimaced. “I get along with hank just fine.”