#gotdam i love them

[bones-of-a-rabbit]

IM NORMAL ABT THEM I SWEAR I JUS WANT TO DRAW THEM BEING CUTE N HAPPY UNTIL TH END OF TIME OK

CRYING WEEPING OVER TH WAY U WRITE AND HOW U CHARACTERIZE THEMS THIS IS THE MF DREAMMMMM I LOVE U

it was yOOOUUUU WHO SENT THOSE FICS IN ANONYMOUSLY!!!!!! IVE GOT U IN MY GOTDAM SIGHTS NOW BITCH

“My Little Treasure”

Pairing - Pirate!Eclipse X SeaMonster!Reader

Word Count - 356

Oneshot is based off an AU by the lovely @bones-of-a-rabbit, who made the below art. I’m absolutely obsessed with their AUs, check them out.

PS: The Little Mermaid gets referenced in this story, I’m referring to the original story by Hans Christian Andersen since it fits the story better and also because I didn’t know how to have them watch a Disney animated movie on a Pirate Ship because I’m a fraud.

Enjoy and please send some oneshot requests so I have content to steal create :D

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Art from this post : https://www.tumblr.com/bones-of-a-rabbit/708610101895987200/being-regularly-but-unexpectedly-doused-with-sea

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“Clipse?”

“Yes, my little treasure?”

Eclipse puts down the dust-coated map he had been studying, carefully placing it on a wooden table decorated with various stolen goods and weapons.

“Can ask you a question?”

Eclipse walks over carefully, draping himself over the large armchair his darling was seated at.

“Anything, my sea star.”

“Would you love me more if I was still a Selkie?”

Eclipse froze slightly from the sudden question, he knew that his beloved was very conscious of their monstrous appearance but this was still quite out of the blue. He gently picked them off the armchair, sliding himself onto the chair with them on his lap.

“Now where would you get such a silly idea, treasure?”

“This.”

His love pointed towards a page on the book they had been reading, the Little Mermaid, as Eclipse had suggested to them earlier. Eclipse gently plucked the book out of their hands, examining the page. The page was torn and was a horrid shade of yellow, but the text was still legible.

“Mermaid is so beautiful, yet Prince does not marry her. If I am a monster, how do you like me?”

Eclipse's heart ached at the thought, bringing his precious closer to him. He put the book aside on a nearby table, holding them close.

“My treasure, I love you no matter what. I’m not like some snobbish prince, who just chooses the prettiest one. I love you for who you are.”

His beloved chuckled at the playful insult towards the prince, sending butterflies into Eclipse’s stomach. God, what he would do to see them happy. He caressed their cheek, bringing them in for a kiss.

“You’re beautiful, love.”

His darling smiled happily, leaning into his embrace. Eclipse chuckles, wrapping his arms around them as the room turned so silent, the only noise was the tides of the sea and squabbling crew members above on the deck.

“There’s still some time before we reach McDonough Island for our next plunder, you want to lie in bed with me? I can’t imagine this old chair being too comfortable.”

You’d like that.

You’d like that very much.

——————————————————

[gotta-bail-my-quails]

holy shit the parallels to the main story in ch15 of the mafia au are insane

[turtle--soup]

@tmaynt Day 22 - Fav Turtle Duo

This is SO hard because one of the main things I love about the turtles is their relationships with one another!

That said, I am a huge sucker for Raph being soft with people, and his relationship with Leo hits me in the feels quite often.

Because no matter how true this is...

... they always come back around to this.

💙❤

Bonus art of my versions of Raph and Leo...

Raph is on the left, Leo on the right. They're twins!

[hollypies]

Ok so this was supposed to be a a. Quick warmup doodle and then it got out of control so. Uh. Enjoy! Also this is from my very shoddy memory of them so if there's inaccuracies no there isnt

[icannotgetoverbirds]

ahem. Aspecs are FUCKING VALID. and they're RIGHT, goddammit.

About what specifically are they right, you may ask?

Listen. Asexuals will side-eye you whenever you describe sexual attraction, and I presume the same happens for aromantics and romantic attraction.

While I can't personally speak on romantic attraction as I've never been fully aromantic, I can definitely say this with confidence.

Sexual attraction is fucking WEIRD, y'all.

You look at someone, or spend time with them, and suddenly you want to bed them? Look, it's a "normal" experience and it's definitely valid but I refuse to pretend that's not fucking bonkers yonkers.

Do any of y'all know what it's like to spend nearly two decades completely unbothered by all the bullshit that comes with having crushes, and then suddenly your entire world comes crashing down and OH GOD OH FUCK EVERYBODY IS HOT SO THIS IS WHAT THEY WERE TALKING ABOUT.

Do you?????

Demisexuals and other forms of gray-asexuals may know a similar experience, and it... like. How do I even describe it.

Going from 0% sexual attraction to 100% sexual attraction TO EVERY GENDER over the course of A FEW DAYS was... an experience, to say the least.

Anyways. Respect aspecs (and that includes the asexual spectrum, the aromantic spectrum, the aplatonic spectrum, and loveless folks) or die by my fucking sword.

I don't actually have a sword. Can someone get me a sword?

[quatregats]

Okay now that I'm not in weird all-nighter hyperfixation trance state I've actually got enough braincells to see that the dialect posts can probably be cleaned up and assembled into something slightly more useful so I'll try to do that once I have some more sleep in me

[goofytrait]

[deliciousmicroplastics]

I watched the sex in the city ep about threesomes last night and everybody said it like "do a threesome" in the 90s in nyc on tv

[jgvfhl]

@cod-dump

Price prepares for his first date with Nik. 141 rib him.

CW: none.

Price stared into the mirror above his sink and wondered when the fuck all those lines on his face had arrived. Last time he’d looked, he could have sworn there were fewer, and there had been no grey either, but now he saw traces of his old man in the reflection and that made his stomach twist unpleasantly.

In all fairness, he didn’t really have much reason to look–really look–at his own face. Even when he was smearing camo around his eyes and down his cheeks, he was only looking for areas of shine that might draw an enemy’s eye. He never really considered why else someone might be lookin’.

Why Nik might be lookin’.

“Bloody hell,” he breathed as he began gathering up his shaving bowl and the badger-fur brush he only got out on special occasions; medal ceremonies, weddings, funerals and now, apparently, bloody dates. Why the fuck he had even agreed to it in the first place he had no idea, but Nik was surprisingly romantic given what Price knew about the rest of his life, and it was difficult to say no when he turned on those eyes. The word ‘no’ felt like booting a Labrador in the face.

Price stashed his shaving kit away and turned back to the mirror to check the rest. He had been pretty sure the shirt he had scrounged from the bottom of his paltry wardrobe hadn’t seen the light of day since the early noughties, and that had been confirmed when he’d pulled it around his shoulders and the buttons had gaped over his chest. Twenty years ago he’d been a lot leaner, but two decades of focused gym sessions, hard graft and being battered in the field had left him with a lot more heft. He’d pulled on a white t-shirt underneath and left it open, hoping he didn't look too much like someone's dad trying to look ten years younger.

Hair waxed into place, beard conditioned, aftershave and cologne–but not enough to register as chemical warfare–and he was as good as he was gonna get. He had never been asked on a date, only ever done the asking, and even then the sum total of his dating efforts as a young man had ended in disaster. Cold fish and chips on the riverfront and getting your leg over in the nearby park, only to fumble that too, wasn’t exactly peak romance, even at fifteen years old, and somehow he didn't think Nik had anything similar in mind.

Fifteen years old. That had been--

Oh, fuck. He was not equipped for this in the slightest.

Price’s phone beeped and a glance at the message confirmed Nik had arrived on base to pick him up. Bang on time too. Price took one final look in the mirror, grimaced, shook his head and pinched the bridge of his nose. Fuck it. It would have to do. Nik had seen him looking like the arse end of a donkey, so this… jitter in Price’s chest felt bloody stupid.

“Get a fuckin’ grip,” he murmured to himself as he snatched his wallet and keys from his bed and shut the door behind him. Unfortunately for Price, the rest of 141 were eagerly awaiting his appearance in the rec room and all looked up when he closed the door. He immediately regretted not exiting through the open window in his room.

“Well, well, cap, don’ ye brush up nice. G’ies a twirl,” Soap said, leaning forward with a wide grin that informed Price he was about to endure a good five to ten minutes of focused ribbing.

“Watch it, MacTavish,” Price replied, but without heat. He felt like a prize twat and this was Soap’s roundabout way of helping.

“Och, c’mon noow,” Soap spread his hands and turned to Garrick for support, “Gaz, back me up…”

Garrick looked up from his phone and tilted his head to the side, clearly evaluating just how much he wanted to chance Price putting him on the worst details for the next week. Apparently, he was feeling pretty fucking lucky that evening. “Pretty sure my dad owns that shirt, Tav. Very… uh, early noughties chic. What d’ya think, Ghost?”

Price could count on Simon to fight his corner against these two reprobates. Or so he thought. Simon leaned back, arms folded across his chest, and examined Price for a beat before choosing violence. “Pretty sure I saw it last about ten years ago,” Simon said, and then shook his head. “Happy to drop a pony on a new striker xt gen 2 so you can have the ranger green as well as the steel grey, but couldn’t cough up a few quid on a new shirt, sir.”

“You’re all bastards, and I you’ll be shovelling the shit next week once I get back to my desk,” Price growled.

A round of groans followed, and Soap rolled up to his feet. “C’mon, sir, we’re just jossin’. As my ol’ nan used tae say: a pritty face suits the dish-cloot.”

“Dish cloth chic,” Gaz said, grinning.

“Ah mean he looks bonnie, right? ‘Side, we need to cut the ol’ man some slack. When was th’ last time ye got tae let yer hair doon, sir?”

“Not long enough,” Price said, pinching the bridge of his nose and planning to beast the trooper delaying Nik at the checkpoint.

“I reckon the last time was when Usher was in the charts. What was the song? Ooh-whoop ooh-whoop, ooh-whoop ooh-whoop, shit, what was it called?”

Price decided that Garrick would be organising a mock dawn raid for the freshest batch of recruits. He would make sure the weather forecast was grim.

“Wait, wait, lemme get it up on Spotify. We c'n get cap in the mood tae drop tha’ thang. Reckon Nik’s an animal on the dancefloor, aye? Ha! Found it. ‘Yeah’ by Usher.”

Soap would be joining Garrick. Full weighted kit.

Price watched as the two sergeants bounced around enthusiastically to a song from 2004 that was, by Price’s estimations, only a year older than the shirt he was currently wearing. Fucking disaster. He looked at Simon, who was watching Johnny with that far away look he always did when he thought no one else would notice.

“You have started the party without me, I see,” said a familiar voice at the door. Price looked over and nearly choked on his own tongue. Nik looked fucking good. White button down open at the collar, black slacks, polished shoes, with his hair freshly cut. Simple, but classy. Price tugged at his sleeve and rubbed the back of his neck, hoping the heat he felt under his skin hadn't translated into a flush.

Nik appraised Price with those same soft eyes that had implored him from the cockpit of his damn helicopter for a date. Price cleared his throat. “You scrub up good, Nik.”

“I could say the same. But you are always the prettiest thing in any room to me, captain.”

Price’s face burned to the very tips of his ears.

“Ah, Nik! Watcha mate, how're you doin’?” Garrick bounded over and threw his arm around Nik’s shoulders for a half hug.

“Ye better have him home by ten!” Soap called from where he stayed slouched on the sofa.

“Of course, sergeant.”

“Nik, let's go, and you lot, get an early night. Pay back's a bitch.”

Nik smiled and stepped aside with what was definitely a bloody half bow to let Price out of the rec room first to a chorus of groans and entreaties for mercy from the two sergeants. Price and Nik emerged into the night air and had almost reached the car before Nik took Price's hand and drew him to a stop. “You are nervous.”

Price cleared his throat, sniffed, and did his best to come off as nonchalant. “Nah, I'm grand, just realised I’ve not got the clobber for this kind of thing, or the, uh… expertise. I'm worried you'll be disappointed.”

Nik looked at him blankly.

“Ah, sorry, my… clothes. It's been a long time since–”

Nik took his chin and lifted his eyes from where they had drifted to the ground. The kiss he placed on Price’s lips was tender, fleeting compared to their first shared under the downdraft of spinning helicopter blades, but it made Price's heart stutter just the same.

“You look good…” Nik released his chin to push both hands into Price’s hair, mussing it out of its careful arrangement. Next, he reached around the back of Price’s belt and tugged his t-shirt free. “Hm, now better.” Price swallowed hard, trying not to be too obvious about inhaling Nik’s scent as he pressed in close.

“Scruffy more like.” Price was still getting over the feeling of Nik’s fingers in his hair, brushing the skin on his back. Nerves had been replaced by the soft thrum of something warm in his chest.

“Nyet. English country boy with rough edges and blue eyes. You are honest, John Price. And a good man. It is what I have always loved most.” Nik opened the car door as Price gawped at him with wide eyes. When his senses had returned, Price realised Nik had rented a nondescript BMW for his stay, with leather interior and a fully digital media system. Plush. “After you.”

“Where’re we goin’?” Price asked as he slid into the passenger seat.

“Is surprise.”

“Bloody hell, and here I was thinkin' we’d go out for a movie and a pint.”

Nik grinned, tapping the beemer into ‘Drive’. “I will have the captain back before he turns into pumpkin, or the lieutenant mounts a rescue mission.”

Price chuckled as Nik pulled away into the night. Thankfully, Usher didn't feature in the evening‘s itinerary.

[doofazoid100]

Tome might be my fave mp100 character, slightly above Mob even. One gripe about mp100 is that it has a mostly male main cast, but oml do i love her character and her themes. she's painted as the typical anime "weird girl", but she's allowed to be weird, she's allowed to be passionate about her interest in aliens, without being painted as an "unideal" girl. i love how shes the main character in the "reigen" spinoff especially, because it touches on the idea that girls ARE allowed to have their own strange, quirky hobbies and dont have to maintain an image that society expects of them. Even Tome's more traditional friends, who are painted as typical, chatty highschool girls at first, open up about their own odd hobbies and they become that much more three dimensional. one girl wants to be a comedian, the other likes eating BUGS, but they laugh about it together and its a very natural conversation.

love this show gotdam

[some1s-sista]

Lovely morning of shopping in the tiny town of Edenton, NC which is all decked out for Xmas.

Then a couple of salads at a little bistro on the Main Street. I had the best spinach salad. Followed by a couple more shops.

I struck out everywhere! I was looking for Nonpareils for James’ stocking but no one seems to sell them anymore. A couple places had snow caps but I wasn’t about to pay $2 for a box with 12 choc chips in it. Besides, I wanted the old timey kind. Oh well. Maybe we’ll find them when I’m not actively looking for them.

When we went to the antique store, the butthead bought the gift I was going to buy for his stocking! I knew he’d like it and she gave him a good price, so I can’t blame him, but gotdam, he’s gonna have an empty stocking if he doesn’t quit it!

Called it a day after a couple more places and went back to the Yukon to find a flock of berry-eating feathered bastards (yes, that’s an official bird name) had explosive diarrhea all over the hood. And it’s so cold today, it’s basically going to take a hot bath to get the damn truck clean.

Merry frickin’ Christmas!

[thefirsthogokage]

SAG-AFTRA and WGA on the Line!

[Image ID: A tweet from J.W. Hendricks (@JW_hendricks) from July 14th that reads:

Let's fucking go. #SAGstrike #WGAStrong

Under that is a black and white image of a person in a hat, sunglasses, and a Writers Guild of America shirt holding a sign that says "Now We Have SAG HO HO HO"

/End ID]

[Image ID: A tweet from Brig Muñoz-Liebowitz (@brigliebs) from July 14th that reads:

Seriously excited to see our picket line chants performed by talented professionals who know how to project from the diaphragm. #wgastrong #SAGAFTRAstrong /End ID]

[Image ID: A tweet from Dan Hernandez (@/cubanmissileDH) from July 13th, 2023 that reads:

People think writers and actors are soft. And we ARE attention-seeking validation magnets. But pursuing a career in the arts is also brave, foolhardy, and kinda batshit. We have all withstood incredible pain to get here, and we can take much more. #SAGAFTRA #WGA #Solidarity

/End ID]

[Image ID: A tweet from form L&O SVU writer Robert Brooks Cohen (@RobertBCohen) that reads:

The much-anticipated WGA/SAG-AFTRA crossover has begun. ✊✊ #WGAStrong #SAGAFTRAstrong #DUNDUN

With a picture of him holding a sign that says in full:

In the studio entertainment system, viewers are represented by two separate yet equally important groups: the Writers Guild of America, who create entire worlds, and the Screen Actors Guild who bring them to life. These are their stories. DUN DUN. /End ID]

Granted, there's also everyone in production, the set designers, the costume designers, the hair and make up people, lighting, sound engineers, etc. But I get his point. Anywho, the image of him in full:

I'll try to ID this one:

(link to first post)

[Image ID: Three tweets from three different WGA members from July 14th, 2023 that read:

Travis Helwig (@travishelwig):

Actors are tall

Mike Royce (@/mikeroyce):

a guy whipped his shirt off at like 9:01 this morning, we're in a different reality now

Jackie (Decembly) Penn (a strike captain) (@JackiePenn18):

We had like 5 actors do that this morning. We were not ready for it 😂.

[Image ID: Tweet from Justine Bateman (@justinebatemanl from July 14th, 2023 that reads:

This is what you get when you give over 100k actors a call time.

@sagaftra @WGAEast @WGAWest #ShowingUp

With a picture of many, many people striking.

/end ID]

[Image ID: a tweet from Will Landman (@WillTheLandMan) from July 14th, 2023 that reads:

Week 11, Day 74. The troops have arrived & gotdam did they arrive! Lovely to see so many familiar faces, all United fighting for a fair deal. The energy was off the roof at WB. I can imagine it was the same at every lot. We will win. #SAGAFTRAstrike #WGAStrike #DoTheWriteThing

After that are four pictures for their day striking.

Also, I just want to say for historical record: today was WGA Strike Captains Day, though idk if that was just at the WB lot or not.

[Image ID: a tweet from actor Christopher Gorham (@ChrisGorham) from July 14th, 2023 that reads:

Day 1. Again. I was there for the beginning of the @wgawest strike so you know we were going to be there for @sagaftra . Enough people at Disney today to wrap around the entire studio’s 1 mile perimeter. Here’s to the unrealistic militant minority! #sagaftrastrong #wgastrong

The post contains four photos from his time striking. /end ID]

Bonus: WGA West showing up for Teamsters on the Amazon Picket line:

[Image ID: a tweet from Liz Alper (@LizApls) on July 14th that reads:

When @Teamsters call, @WGAWest responds.

We joined Teamsters on their picket line at the @/amazon warehouse in Santa Clarita. Amazon drivers deserve fair compensation and safe work conditions (and AC). We'll see you next time, Teamsters. Don't order from Amazon.

Four pictures are included in the tweet from the day showing multiple people holding WGAW signs. /End ID]

Honestly, all this solidarity during all the strikes this summer is bringing a tear to my eye. I love seeing everyone standing up for each other and fighting together. Union Solidarity.is.stronger.than ever, and it's beautiful to see.

[chokedonaturtle]

my humanized cars headcanons

Cal Weathers Edition

▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀

- Cal went to a private school in California and when his parents died he moved in with Strip and Lynda at like 12-15

so that’s why his accent ain’t as pronounced as Strip’s but it’s still there

bro definitely got called a city slicker by Tex

- Tex loves him sm he does anything and everything for him, he’s def the cool uncle that says yes just because Strip said no

- 100000% a mamas boy and is glued to Lynda’s hip most of the time

- insanely good at math he does that thing with the mental abacus russian children learn in school

honestly he’s just good at school in general that boy can WRITE an essay

- is right handed but holds the wii remote in his left hand and nunchuck in his right WHICH IS WRONG BTW 😡😡😡

- can and will play the most depressing country music on guitar and has the most perfect country boy voice with the cracks and all (think brad paisley (my love))

- he has low self confidence because he feels the need to be just as good as Strip if not better and feels like he’ll never step outside Strip’s shadow and make a name for himself

and Tex makes jokes like “yeah you better win this season or i’ll drop you” but then he sees cal sad and he’s like “thou shalt not compare thineself to thine predecessor”

- thinks he’s sponsored by dinoco ONLY because he’s Strip’s nephew

“you just sponsored me bc i’m strip’s nephew 😔”

“i sponsored you bc you’re a great racer with potential not bc of strip 😡🥺”

- bro cried when he retired (i did too)

- when Tex was updating the racing suits for safety standards or something he had a new design drawn up and Cal was like “no i wanna race with my old design 🥺🥺🥺”

- Tex thinks it’s adorable that he wants to race in that outfit bc it hasn’t been updated since strip started racing and it’s like a legacy passed down !! aw !!

- whenever he’s in the same room as Tex he plucks off Tex’s hat and wears it like he used to when he was a young whippersnapper

and Tex is like “gotdam!!! that hat looks just like mine !!!!” and Cal is like 😐😑😐 “y’aint funny tex”

- says the weird country stuff like

“that boy’s cornbread ain’t done in the middle”

“nervous as a cat in a room full o’ rocking chairs”

“if the good lord’s willing and the creek don’t rise”

“i’m fixin to (insert perfectly normal errand nobody announces)”

“they was bangin’ like a screen door in a tornado.” (he got that one from Tex and only says it when he ain’t isn’t around Strip and Lynda)

- says “git” instead of “get” bc of Strip and yall’d’ve bc of Tex and then everyone makes fun of him

Strip: “where you git that 🤨” “git over ‘ere” aka “CMERE BOY”

Tex: “yall’d’ve” “y’aint” “yall done got them good”Cal: yeah that’s mine now

▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀▄▀

yeah that’s it for NOW i will make more !! later mayhaps!!

- he says mayhaps and perchance NO I DIDNT BASE HIM OFF ME

ok bye <3

[babyboiboyega]

Next to me (The Study Room) Pt. 8 (Shuri x Black!Fem!reader)

HBCU!Shuri x Black!Fem!Reader

Word Count: 8.2 (gotdam, thats a lot for me yall)

Content: mostly fluff, you and Shuri being absolutely in love with each other but both scared to confront it, Shuri being absolutely adorable,...but then some angst, mentions of blood and injuries

Babyboiboyega’s Marvel Masterlist

Babyboiboyega’s Masterlist of Masterlists

Series Masterlist

Y/N: Here’s part 8 only a few minutes before 9 LMAO

This series is now called “Next To Me”, but I’ll still be tagging it as The Study Room because it’s what we’re all familiar with. I hope y’all enjoy this part and I’m not sorry for the cliffhanger

RECAP: If you thought your heart had been racing at her arrival, it was nothing compared to the way it raced now. She wanted to take you somewhere?

Her nervousness paired with her request to take you somewhere had a bashful, yet excited look appearing on your face as you nodded quickly. You didn’t dare think about the implications behind her request; the last thing you wanted was to think too much into everything and then either disappoint yourself or disappoint her when the truth came to light. 

But you could let yourself enjoy one night with her…right?

You had managed to keep your questions to yourself as soon as Shuri had offered to take you somewhere, or rather tell you that she wanted to take you somewhere. It was hard as hell considering all of the factors leading up to you two’s departure from the palace and how they all made your curiosity grow. 

They were managed while you cleaned up in the training room’s equivalent to a locker room, changing into the clothes she had brought you afterwards. You had found yourself coming up with different ideas of what it could be as you changed into the outfit that consisted of a light brown tank, beige shorts, and a dark brown button up that you threw over the ensemble and left unbuttoned. To finish it off, she had given you a pair of, what you affectionately called, “moon steppers” simply because of their sci-fi design that was so uniquely Shuri you couldn’t help but to love them. 

To be completely honest, all of your questions had almost left your mind after stepping out of the bathroom and receiving an appraising look from Shuri- one that she hadn’t been afraid to hide as she pushed off of the wall. The longer she had looked at you, the wider her smile had become until you were mirroring it. 

Of course, you had been a stuttering mess as she had complimented you, offering a smooth “you look good” paired with another scan of your body with her eyes. You had damn near tripped over your own feet as she guided you to the exit of the palace, placing a hand on the small of your back and turning you towards the door. She had deftly slid her hand into yours before gently pulling you on an unknown path through the palace and letting you know that you two would be taking a car.

“A car? So, we’re taking a car to…” You trailed off, looking over at her with your eyebrows raised in question. Your attempt to catch her slipping failed miserably, as she only glanced over at you, laughed, and shook her head. You kept your eyes on the side of her profile, your mind racing with excitement as to where you two could be heading. However, the moment your eyes trailed over her outfit, the excitement was quickly replaced with a warm feeling that settled over your entire being.

Shuri’s outfit was simple…but so damn good looking on her that it took a while for your brain to rewire before trying to form words.

It consisted of a white, high neck tank top coupled with a pair of cream colored joggers. There was a jacket around her waist that matched the color of her pants. The tightness of her top paired with the cropped nature of it showed off her midsection in all of its bronze, toned, muscular glory, and you had to prepare to bat away your thoughts with an imaginary broom. However, they only increased in volume and intensity as you looked closer, taking into account the details that further emphasized her outfit. 

She wore the same shoes as you, except she seemed to wear them much better due to the slightly different feeling of walking they provided. On her fingers were at least 3 golden rings, each one as simple and beautiful as the last one; and then around her neck she wore a necklace that you hadn’t seen on her before…that is until you two arrived in Wakanda. She had explained the purpose of it during your first tour; how it held the entirety of her Black Panther suit in it and how, with just one thought, she could make it appear and retract whenever needed. 

The outfit paired with her accessories and the way she carried herself, suave and smooth but with an air of regalness, was honestly enough to make you sweat. Your attraction towards her was nothing new for you; it had been there since meeting her for the first time in that study room. But one could say that a few things had happened since then that had only made your attraction grow.

And now here you were, about to go…somewhere with her because she had wanted to take you out. Just how big of a crush could you have on her before it crossed into unspoken territory? 

That was a thought to stress over later and not when you were being led outside of the palace and towards a familiar car, her car, that sat on the edge of what looked to be the airstrip.  

The sight of her car provided an instant flash back to the night she had driven you to the hospital to see Imani, your friend and roommate, who had been checked in because of a monoxide leak in your dorm building. You had only known each other for a few weeks at that point, yet she had immediately and willingly offered to help in any way she could. Hell, she had even offered you a place to stay in her room until your dorm building had been cleared.

Then, you had obviously known where you were going. Now, you had not one clue…and it was exciting. 

Her car wasn’t the only one on the tarmac; behind it idled two, intimidating looking jeeps that would presumably be driven by the few Dora Milaje and other members of the Royal Guard lingering by them. Surrounding all three vehicles were countless Talon Fighters, all of them looking sleek and deadly at the same time. Looking at them made a sudden desire to peek inside of one rise, especially given the fact that the last time you were in one, you had been unconscious and on the brink of death. 

Yeah, maybe we’ll hold off on that. 

As soon as Shuri stepped onto the tarmac, they all saluted her, their arms crossing their chests before quickly returning to their sides. Most of them simply nodded at you,  but a few of them even offered the tiniest of smiles that you were quick to return. 

So we’re going somewhere that requires protection. Another clue.

“You know I can practically see you trying to figure out tonight’s plans.”

Shuri’s amused voice captured your attention as you two stopped in front of her car. Your eyebrows furrowed almost immediately, turning to face her with words of denial already on the tip of your tongue. Had it been on your face or did she just know you that well?

“Yeah, well that’s what happens when you don’t tell me anything. Who knows? You could be…kidnapping me for all I know.”

With her eyebrows furrowed in question, she looked at you with a grin. 

“Kidnapping you from the palace that I already live in? With the Royal Guard standing watch?” She emphasized her question by motioning to the group around you. Shaking your head, you looked at her in mock exasperation, your eyes widening.

“They’re here to protect you; not keep you from doing something crazy.”

“Actually, that is a huge part of our job description. Probably the most stressful part.”

Okoye’s sudden appearance made the both of you turn quickly to her, your eyes falling on the General and the slightly impatient look she seemed to always have on her face. Just looking at her made your sore muscles throb once more.

“Oh, please, Okoye. I’m a joy to be around and protect.” 

Okoye made a face that showed just how much she disagreed with Shuri’s words, but before she could say anything, Okoye was making her way to the first jeep.

To your surprise, a few, nearly silent snickers came from a few of the guards surrounding you. It was evidently a normal occurrence for them to break their stoic, intimidating appearances, as Shuri rolled her eyes good-naturedly at the sound. 

The amount of excitement radiating from Shuri was palpable, and it was further shown in how she teasingly interacted with those around her. It wasn’t hard to see the difference between her now and how she had been…well, last night. The tension and worry that had been hovering over her as she had come to your room was nowhere to be seen, instead being replaced by a lightheartedness that was practically contagious. 

“Whatever you say, Umkanikazi. Are you ready to depart for-”

“Okoye!”

The General’s words halted abruptly, her eyebrows furrowing at Shuri’s alarmed yell. Her eyes had scanned the tarmac in a quick second, undoubtedly looking for what could have caused Shuri to yell, only to realize that there was no threat. Her eyes widened in alarm only to narrow in vexation as Shuri spoke.

“You can’t just tell her where we are going! It’s supposed to be a surprise.”

The two of them stared each other down across the hood of Shuri’s car, seeming to have a silent conversation; one that you weren’t privy to, despite standing right next to Shuri.

The staring ended once Okoye sighed, quickly saying something in Xhosa to Shuri before turning and speaking to the guards in the same language. Shuri, on the other hand, looked slightly offended…though it quickly turned into a smile so wide and contagious that you couldn’t help but smile. Nevermind you had no idea what they had just said…Maybe you should ask for Xhosa lessons instead of trying to learn it by yourself. 

Your smile turned into a soft laugh as she quickly turned to you, her hand pulling you to the passenger door which she opened. She waited until you were situated before closing your door and quickly walking around to the driver’s side. It only took her a few seconds to cross to the other side and join you.   

“If this is a kidnapping, at least let me grab a few clothes. Maybe my charger-”

You paused in your words as she threw her head back, letting out a genuine and loud laugh. You wondered if the adoration was as easy to see in your eyes as you watched her, your mouth hanging open slightly.

It was easy to come to the conclusion that you’d do anything throughout the night just to hear her uncontrolled laughter; something you had a feeling she didn’t get a lot of chances to do, given her royal status and appearances she had to constantly keep up. 

“This isn’t a kidnapping, uthando. It’s simply a way for me to get you out of the palace. You’ve been behind its walls since arriving, and I thought this would be a good chance to give you good memories of Wakanda, and not only of ones full of…poison and stress and stalkers.” Her smile had hardened around the edges as she finished speaking, but you were quick to keep the conversation moving, not wanting to see her smile fade for a second. 

“Well, in that case, is there anything I need to know before we get to this undisclosed location? Any cultural customs I need to learn? Special greetings? Speaking of greetings, I’d like to learn Xhosa. I’ve already learned a few phrases.”

Admittedly, your task of learning a few phrases in the language had been slightly encouraged by the thought of impressing Shuri, but mostly encouraged by the thought of learning such a beautiful language while in a country where it was mainly spoken. 

Her eyes flitted to you in acute surprise as the language’s name left your mouth correctly, lateral click and all. The impressed look on her face boosted your ego, making you smirk and lean back against the seat.

“Oh? Such as?” 

She busied herself with getting the car started and ready to leave as you spoke, yet her constant glances over at you reassured you that she was still listening. You could see one of the jeeps pull around until it was stationed in front while the other brought up the rear of Shuri’s car. The jeep idled in front until Shuri flashed her headlights, and then all three of the vehicles were moving in tandem. It didn’t take long for your little convoy to reach a bridge that connected the airstrip to the mainland that held the countless looming buildings, businesses, and homes. The Royal Guard members who weren’t in one of the two jeeps stood at the entrance of the bridge, their gazes focused and scanning the area. 

You didn’t know if it was the sight of the guards on high-alert as you passed them or the sight of the palace shrinking in the passenger mirror, but the further you drove from the palace, the more apprehension tried to weasel its way into your thoughts. 

You’d had no doubts that you two were safe behind the palace’s walls, and despite becoming a little stir crazy, you had taken solace in that fact- especially after days of working to find the stalker and not finding a shred of decent evidence that would allude to their identity. They had gone silent since their initial attack, but probably because their target, Shuri, had come back to Wakanda; a nearly impenetrable country to outsiders. 

While their silence and inactivity was a little relieving in the sense that neither of you would have to look over your shoulder, partly due to the protection surrounding you two, it was also worrying. It left their next moves up to your imagination, and that resulted in your imagination running wild. 

You could try to convince yourself that if they somehow made it into Wakanda, you all would’ve known by now, for they would have surely tried their luck once more; but the truth was if they did have the nerve to follow the Queen to her own country, they wouldn’t risk failing again; not when so much was at stake. When desperation rose, sanity decreased, and who knows what lengths this person was willing to go to-

“Y/N.” 

Your name being called coupled with a hand landing on your own caused your thoughts to pause abruptly. Your attention instantly switched from the distant palace to Shuri, your eyebrows raising in question. 

“Hm?”

Glancing out of the window showed that you were still moving, but now you were surrounded by trees that quickly whizzed by. They loomed over the vehicles, almost covering the sky above you…but not quite covering the soft, colorful lights that shined against it. After quickly noting the colorful and constantly changing lights peeking through the trees, you turned your gaze to Shuri.

Unbeknownst to you, she had been eagerly waiting for you to share with her the Xhosa phrases you had learned. It wasn’t an easy language to learn in any way, but the thought of you still wanting to try, undoubtedly out of genuine interest, made her heart skip a beat. At your silence, though, she had become slightly worried. It only took a quick glance at you to see that there was something on your mind, and whatever it was caused a slight frown to replace the smile that had been on your face only seconds earlier. 

Shuri pursed her lips slightly as she glanced once again at you, her eyebrows pulling together. Where there was once a glint of excitement and anticipation in your eye, there was now…concern? Restlessness? A feeling she had personally vowed to herself that wouldn’t take up an inch of your thoughts tonight. 

“What’s on your mind? What are you thinking about?” 

Your answer initially came in the form of a soft sigh, your jaw working as you thought of a way to answer without potentially ruining Shuri’s mood or the night in general. Seeing the worried look already on her face prompted you to shake your head, forcing your anxious thoughts to the back of your mind for the night with effort. You gave her a smile that you hoped seemed genuine.

“I was trying to remember what I learned. Now, don’t make fun of me. I learned these from a book.”

Pretending to ignore the suspicious look on her face, you turned your back towards the door to face her. You silently cheered as you saw the corner of her mouth lift up, the rest of her lips soon following as you began to speak.

“So, of course I learned the casual greetings: molo and molweni. And then I learned how to ask someone how they are-”

“Oh? Unjani?”

You perked up slightly, your smile genuinely growing with pride at being able to understand what she had asked, and knowing how to respond.

“Ndiphilile, unjani?”

Her look of appraisal paired with a proud smirk had a chill running down your back- one you quickly tried to hide by pretending to fix your seatbelt. 

“What else did you learn?”

Shuri, on the other hand, couldn’t get enough of hearing the language fall from your lips. Of course, it sounded as if you had just learned the language which was fitting considering that you had and by yourself, nonetheless; but she found the slight hesitation of your pronunciations endearing and the confidence in your voice…well she found that rather attractive. She found you rather attractive, in more than one way. That was something she had come to terms with while planning this little outing. 

She had realized rather quickly that, above all else, she only cared about making sure you enjoyed yourself. It didn’t matter how many times you told her you were fine being cooped up in the palace; she could tell that it was weighing on you in the slightest. Downplaying the circumstances you had been forced to accept was something that she didn’t take lightly. In fact, it would’ve been easy for you to resist staying in Wakanda altogether; it would have made it harder on herself, Okoye, and anyone else already working on the situation, but you had handled the change with emotional and mental grace. 

How could she not be attracted to you?

“Mmm…I think I remember…oh! Uxolo? Excuse me?” 

You hadn’t even realized that the group was slowing down until the car rolled to a soft stop. Shuri put the car in park before turning her gaze completely to you, unrelenting and piercing. There was a fond look on her face and you found yourself fidgeting with the seatbelt under her gaze. 

“That was close. It’s uxolo. You used the click for the letter ‘q’, but you were still close.”

It had sounded weird coming out of your mouth, and it was because you had used the wrong click. After practicing for hours in your room, all it took was being in an enclosed space with Shuri for you to forget the simplest pronunciations. Nevertheless, you copied what she said, taking time to sound exactly like her.

“Oh, right. Uxolo.”

“There you go- nantso ke, uyfumene! You got it!”

It’s honestly absurd how much of a reaction Shuri’s words of praise had on you, but you felt you handled it well. Instead of melting into a literal puddle right in the seat, you channeled that small bud of pride and brought it to the front. 

“Mmhm. Soon enough, I’ll be eavesdropping on you and Okoye’s conversations.”

Another loud laugh left her lips as she opened her door, letting the sounds of other car doors slamming shut filter into the car. But along with the slamming of doors came another sound; music, instruments, voices in varying degrees of joy and celebration. The amalgamation of sounds prompted you to quickly open your own door and step out, your eyes scanning the area in a search for where the voices were coming from. 

You couldn’t have been far from the edge of the moat where the bridge had ended, as you could still see glimpses of the palace through the trees you all had just driven through; but that wasn’t what caught your attention. 

You were acutely aware of Shuri coming to stand beside you, and of the Royal Guard following her and partially surrounding her; your attention had been entirely claimed by the view you could see quite clearly from the small, shaded area of land you all had parked on. 

Every chance you got, you had made sure to gaze down at the streets of the city every morning; always full of vibrant life and colors, and stalls that sold varying sizes, colors, and kinds of Wakandan artwork. Shuri had caught you staring a number of times, and she had even described a few of her favorite stalls she loved to frequent whenever she took the time to go. Of course, you had listened and held on to every word she said, loving to hear the passion and the affection of which she spoke about her city with. You had even vowed to yourself that before you left Wakanda, whenever that would be, you’d have to venture down and buy a few keepsakes just to remember your time here. 

But as your hand was eagerly grabbed and you were pulled out of the shadows of the trees, it was quickly made apparent that Shuri had taken care of that desire before you could do so yourself. 

The sheer amount of different smells, sights, and sounds would have normally been a little…much for you, but with Shuri’s firm grip around yours, expertly weaving you through the crowd with ease, you found yourself becoming completely engrossed in the festivities taking place around the two of you. It was easy to just let her lead you, and you took the time to look at every stall that passed. 

Scarves, dashikis, elaborate jewelry, clay pottery; all being sold alongside different meats, vegetables, and pastries that undoubtedly tasted just as good as they smelled. 

“We’ll come back, I promise! But I want to show you something first.”

Shuri’s voice spoke directly into your ear, making you jump slightly before you leaned in more. The crowd milling around the area was loud, but it was filled with such glee that you didn’t mind it all. And despite the crowd basically parting at the sight of their Queen accompanied by the Royal Guard led by Okoye, there weren’t many curious eyes locking onto the two of you. Remembering the fact that Shuri, and her brother before her, had frequented the city and the market multiple times explained the crowd’s seemingly “disinterest” in the monarch. Some still caught sight of her, giving her a quick and eager Wakandan salute (that she almost always returned with a salute back or even a smile), but most just went about their business. It certainly allowed Shuri to pull you quickly and easily to what she had wanted to show you, and upon arriving at the site, you immediately understood why it was the first stop she had wanted to visit. 

Unlike the section of the market you two had just been through, the area you arrived at was mostly clear. There were people standing in a circle around the area, but the only things- and people- inside the circle were a small group of drummers, sitting and kneeling behind a small group of what looked to be dancers. The drummers held their drums close to their bodies, their heads bowed and their bodies still, while the dancers did the same. 

Shuri still had your hand in hers, and as you turned to her, preparing to ask about the sight in front of you, she pulled you closer and lowered her head to speak into your ear.

“I’ll explain everything after the performance, but this is my favorite part.” When she pulled back, the smile on her face was enough to stop your questions from arising…for the meantime. It was giddy, and held every piece of childlike joy she had lost as a result of her brother and mother’s deaths. However, as you looked closer, there was something in her eyes; a deep, barely perceptible look of sadness. Her smile didn’t waver once, though; in fact, it only grew as the sudden sound of drums pierced the air. 

The drums commanded the attention of everyone they reached, making everyone pause and turn towards the sound, including you. They filled the air with rhythms that were so mesmerizing and heavy, you could feel it traveling through the ground and into the bottoms of your feet. The crowd was filled with people of different sizes, shapes, and skin tones; yet, you all were one in the collective immersion.

The dancers moved in a way that definitely told a story; a story that the singer undoubtedly echoed with a voice as strong and unwavering as the strongest oak tree. It didn’t matter that you couldn’t understand a word she was singing; the significance of the story being told could be felt through her voice and the dancer’s movements. 

“Those five dancers represent the 5 tribes of Wakanda,” Shuri spoke quietly, her voice coming from behind you. You hadn’t even realized that she had moved until she spoke, one of her hands raising to rest gently on your side as if to steady you. The chill that ran down your spine wasn’t a result of the soft breeze that blew across the land. 

The 5 dancers she referenced all wore traditional, African dance attire that contrasted beautifully against the advanced technology that covered every inch of the city. A high speed, magnetic train traveled above the heads of the crowd who watched a traditional performance. 

With every second that passed, you were reminded of why Wakanda was one of the top nations in the world in…well…everything. 

Each dancer’s costume consisted of a certain set of colors, and with Shuri’s help, you were able to recognize which dancer represented which tribe. Shades of green and white for the River Tribe; oranges, reds, and brown for the Mining Tribe; dark blue and purple for the Merchant Tribe; shades of blue for the Border Tribe; and gray and white for the Jabari Tribe. Each of them had specific elements of their costumes that represented their tribe further, such as the River Tribe’s beaded headdresses and accessories, and the Mining Tribes red clay covered skin and hair. Every dancer had an anklet of shells that rattled with every shake, stomp, and kick. 

The costumes showed only a small portion of what made that specific tribe beautiful and enthralling, and you found it unfortunate that you’d probably never get to fully experience what each one had to offer. 

As they continued to dance with movements that seemed both graceful and packed with heavy meaning, Shuri continued to translate the words being sung. Her voice effortlessly blended with the singer’s husky voice and the music, not taking anything away from the performance, but instead adding an entirely new layer of captivation on top. There were notes of excitement and familiarity as she spoke softly. 

“Long ago, these lands were blessed with a gift from beyond this world: vibranium. Everything touched by the vibranium flourished greatly, and when the time of man came, so did they.”

The rhythm of the drums changed to one that exuded energy and chaos, the shift being felt throughout the entire crowd. The dancers followed suit, suddenly moving together in a push-and-pull motion that resembled a conflict between all of them, their faces exhibiting conflict and hardships. Shuri’s next translation matched the change.

“Five tribes laid claim to the land, calling it Wakanda. For many years, they fought relentlessly and ruthlessly, resulting in many deaths and even more devastation…until-”

The dancers parted, revealing a man with an elaborate, black and purple headdress that instantly commanded every person’s attention, dancer and audience member alike. His movements were graceful…almost catlike…as he moved around the 5 tribes. Every time he passed a tribe, they would turn and follow him with their eyes transfixed; it happened again and again until all 5 tribes looked at him with reverence in their eyes.

“-a shaman, upon receiving a vision from the panther Goddess Bast, consumed the heart shaped herb. It granted him supernatural abilities- great enough to end the fighting and unite the 5 tribes. They made him king…and he became the first Black Panther…making him Wakanda’s protector.”

You watched as the 5 tribes bowed their heads, raising and crossing their arms in the Wakandan salute while the lone dancer- the Black Panther- continued to dance along to the drums. As the rhythm increased, so did the dancer’s movements until you could barely see his feet touch the ground. His movements paired with the music made you lean forward, your body subconsciously awaiting for the resolution to the climax that was happening. Shuri’s hand against your waist tightened in anticipation, and if you had taken a glance at her, you would’ve seen her eyes unblinking and staring at the scene, just as engrossed as you. 

Every bit of technology around you vanished, leaving you staring at a performance that represented the past, present, and future with a vividness you couldn’t help but feel deeply. This wasn’t as simple as storytelling; this was the passing down of generations upon generations of the beautiful country’s origins; this was making sure that the creation of Wakanda stayed just as important as its developments, no matter how advanced they were becoming.

As the drums’ final beat rang out, the dancer’s movements stopped abruptly. A charged silence that continued to carry the drum’s last beat descended upon the crowd. You held your breath, not wanting to break it with something as small as a puff of air, only for it to escape you shakily as the crowd erupted into cheers. 

It was almost like snapping out of a trance, or maybe stepping out of a movie theater after being pulled into the events happening on the screen for hours. The second it happened, every sight, sound, and smell came rushing back to you. You were admittedly startled at the loud applause, whistles, and ululations; but that didn’t stop you, and Shuri, from joining in eagerly. 

The applause had only continued until it turned into more music, the drums once again picking up but this time with an air of commemoration and entertainment. The sight of audience members entering the circle and dancing brought a smile to your face, and a quick thought of joining crossed your mind before you quickly pushed it aside. The people of Wakanda’s joy was so contagious that you 

were perfectly fine watching it from the sidelines. 

You were still reeling from the absolute experience you had just witnessed when you turned to Shuri. Her gaze was already on you when you met it, her eyes immediately softening. They still held that glint of excitement that had effortlessly reeled you in. 

“How’d you like it?”

Shuri’s question, full of glee and hope that you enjoyed yourself, made you pause; but not because you didn’t know how to answer. It was more-so because of a lack of words to describe exactly how you felt. How could you accurately describe an experience that both educated and enlightened you? How could you describe an experience that you’d continue to think about even after you leave Wakanda?

“I…don’t think I have any words. Shuri, that was the most…it was…” you blinked, your words completely evading you, “I don’t even know how to explain it. That was probably one of the best things- performances I’ve ever seen.”

Your words resulted in a blinding smile appearing on her face…and that's when the realization hit you. 

You’d do almost anything and everything to make her smile as hard as she was smiling right now. You didn’t know if you wanted to freeze the moment so that you could stay in it, or if you wanted to keep going with the hope that you’d find more things that would result in a smile like hers. 

“They put on the performance every Indalo Day- Creation day. We have this festival once every three years, where the tribes come together for at least two nights. They make artwork and trade goods and foods; it's definitely one of my favorite holidays. ” She turned her gaze to the steadily growing crowd of dancers, her eyes scanning over the people of her country with appreciation and a love that went deeper than simply being their queen. 

“I can see why…and that was only one performance.” 

You let out a soft laugh, motioning to the center of the circle and not being able to tear your eyes away from her side profile. Undoubtedly feeling your gaze on her, she turned back to you.

“You’re right, but there’s so much more to look at.” her smile turned slightly mischievous as she took your hand once more, lacing your fingers together. The action sent a feeling close to being shocked up your arm, and it helped you realize that you’d probably always react the same whenever Shuri touched you. 

She pulled you along the outskirts of the crowd, keeping you close enough to where she could speak to you without having to yell. She didn’t exactly have to ask for your permission to lead you through the crowd; the way you kept yourself close to her, matching her eager energy and steps as best as you could said enough.

For the next unknown amount of hours, you and Shuri visited every stall you two could reach. She had bought you a beautiful, multi-colored bag, using a reasoning of “we need a bag to hold everything that we buy.”

“You’re not slick, Shuri. I know what you’re doing.”

“I’m not doing anything. Ooh, let’s go look at those.” 

And then she’d be pulling you to the next one. 

If she saw your eyes linger on a stall for a second too long, she’d either subtly steer you towards it with a knowing smile, or she’d disappear for a few minutes before mysteriously showing back up and slipping something into your bag. The few times you had caught her about to do the same thing, you had grabbed her arm or tightened your hand around hers, insisting that you were fine, only for her to shake her head and argue you up and down. 

“You look like you want it.”

“I never said I wanted it.”

“...But you look like you want it- do you want it?”

“Shuri-”

“You want it. Let’s go.”

It's not like you didn’t want to buy all of the souvenirs and items you thought were beautiful, as the exact opposite was the case. If you had the money, you’d be spending all of it recklessly throughout the market. However, you had quickly found out at the first stall that somehow, someway, you had forgotten your card in your room at the palace. You had immediately and jokingly blamed it on Shuri’s secrecy…who only responded by narrowing her eyes and speaking Wakandan in a quick fashion to the vendor. Only a minute later, the vendor was handing the tote bag to you with a smile. Before you could protest, Shuri was holding her kimoyo beads over the vendor’s, both bracelets letting out a little trill as a transaction was made, and then you were being pulled once again. 

Dealing with Shuri quickly resulted in your bag growing so heavy that you had to continuously switch it from shoulder to shoulder; though as soon as she noticed your struggle, she took the bag from you with a reassuring smile. 

“Thank you, but Shuri… I think I have enough keepsakes. I could fill an entire shelf with all of this.” 

Your words left your mouth with a laugh as you pulled her over to the side, not wanting to stop in the middle of the walkway and risk interrupting the flow of the crowd. 

“Maybe so, but there’s just one more thing I want you to see. And then we can head back.” 

You were quick to shake your head, your eyebrows drawing close together. She sounded apologetic, like she was sorry for keeping you out longer than you wished to be out. In reality, the thought of returning to the palace hadn’t crossed your mind once while exploring the festival. The ache in your limbs from your earlier training session had been pushed to the back of your mind, almost nonexistent. Shuri’s enthusiasm and the festival’s liveliness had taken up all of your thoughts. 

“Oh, no, I don’t wanna leave!” You squeezed her hand in reassurance. “In fact, if we could stay out here all night, I’d be more than willing to.” 

Returning to the palace meant entering the real world once more, and the real world was currently inhabited by people who would do anything because of an unhealthy obsession. Returning to the palace would undoubtedly result in that heavy weight, stacked high with royal duties and obligations to protect everyone she considered under her care, to hang over Shuri once more. The smile that had already carved out a space in your heart would fade, as would the reasons behind that smile. 

The longer you two stayed out, the better it would be for both of you. 

“Well, in that case, there’s still someplace I want to show you.” Her thumb rubbed across your knuckles in a soothing manner for just as much as her benefit as yours. She waited until you nodded, as if you would refuse or resist being taken somewhere- anywhere- by Shuri, and then you two were once again joining the crowd. 

You didn’t quite make it as far as you’d hoped, though, when a myriad of high-pitched and excited voices flooded the air, calling out “Queen Shuri!” 

With your hand still secured in hers, she turned to face the voices, her smile widening. Standing between two spaced out stalls was a small group of children, all belonging to different tribes and making their group look rather colorful. They all waved with wild movements as Shuri looked at them, beckoning her to come to them. It was evident why as one child bent down, picking up a ball and holding it over his head before speaking loudly and in enthusiasm. 

“Would you like to play with us?” 

One of the older looking kids nudged the child, a slightly scolding look on their face as they said something quickly to him. The sight of the child deflating and lowering the ball with a slight frown was all it took for Shuri to look back at you with a questioning but amusing gaze. It took you a few seconds to realize that she was asking if you’d like to join, as her mind was already made up about going to play with the children. 

“I’ll stick close by.”

The word “cute” wasn’t adequate enough to describe the look of joy and childlike glee on her face as she passed you the bag before turning on her heel and heading across the walkway to the group of children. They looked on in anticipation that only turned to surprise as she turned back around to face you. It only took a few steps for her to make her way back to you to your confusion. 

“What’s wrong-”

She moved so quickly that you had barely blinked before she was placing her lips against your cheek in a quick peck, and then she was turning and joining the children. Giggles rang through the air as they watched the entire scene, their eyes looking curiously between the two of you before their short attention spans were refocused on Shuri. 

You, on the other hand, remained rooted to the spot with wide eyes and a hot face. The smile that took over your face was wide enough to hurt your cheeks, making you raise your hand and lightly massage them as you watched her cheerily kick the ball around with the kids. Her wide smile was visible even from a distance, and her laugh could be heard echoing through the air along with the childrens’. 

The sight would’ve made any person smile, as nothing but indescribable joy radiated off of the group. It hit you that this was the happiest you had ever seen Shuri; surrounded by the people of her country, all coming together to participate in activities that showcased the love they had for each other and the land they lived on. 

Your movements were quick as you pulled your phone out of your pocket, raising it and aiming it at Shuri and the kids. Focusing it, you took a few pictures that you were Shuri would enjoy. You lowered your phone, swiping through the recently captured pictures with a soft laugh before your attention was pulled elsewhere. 

“They’re rather cute, aren’t they?” 

The strong accent belonged to a woman who didn’t look that much older than you, and as she approached you, you could see that she carried a bowl full of objects made out of stone. Offering a polite smile, you nodded in agreement, your eyes glancing back at Shuri.

“They are. Quite energetic, as well.” 

The woman let out a chuckle, nodding as well.

“Indeed they are. I could use a bit of that energy.” She paused only for a second, her gaze growing curious as she walked closer to you. You placed your phone back in your pocket, your curiosity growing as she held the bowl out to you. 

As you looked into it, you quickly came to the realization that the stone objects were actually what looked like spearheads ranging in different sizes, colors, and matter. Some were made out of metal, some out of wood, and of course, there were some made of vibranium. The lights of the city reflected off of the vibranium in a unique way, instantly making them known for what they were. They were almost iridescent, instantly drawing your attention to them.

“Oh, those are beautiful,” You spoke softly, your hand raising to ghost over them before you quickly pulled it back.

“Please, by all means…” she pushed the basket further towards you, indicating with her head that it was okay for you to pick one up. You smiled gratefully at her as you reached back in, gently picking up one which looked to be made of a dark purple crystal. It instantly reminded you of Shuri’s lamps that were in her dorm room. 

Holding it up to the light made it change shades of purple, and the sight made your lips part in slight surprise. The light hit it perfectly so that you could see every ridge, bump, and knick; but its flaws took nothing away from its beauty.

“Would you like to buy it?” 

The woman’s words quickly brought your attention back to her, and you smiled apologetically while lowering your arm. When you looked at her, you could see her eyes focused on something over your shoulder. 

“I’m unfortunately all out of money, I’m sorry. If you’re here tomorrow, I’d be more than happy to buy a few.”

It was almost as if your words flipped a switch, as the woman’s eyes narrowed as they met yours. Her gaze, which was once welcoming and curious, was now cynical and calculating. Assuming she was upset because you had wasted her time, you went to apologize once more while going to place the spearhead back in the bowl. Your hand hadn’t even reached it before her hand was closing around your wrist in a tight, almost bruising grip.

Her actions paired with her expression made you freeze, your eyes widening in alarm as you looked at her. Your mind blanked while simultaneously trying to come up with words that you could use to reason yourself out of the situation. Your voice was firm despite the way your heart raced.

“Ma’am, you need to let go of me. I was putting it back-”

“You must stay away.”

Her words made you stop, your eyebrows furrowing in confusion. The thought of calling Shuri crossed your mind, but so did the lessons that you had just gone through earlier in the day. You were in no way prepared to take on the woman if she could actually fight- not in a way that would ensure you came out of it without any wounds; but the least you could do was get out of her grip the way you were taught to.

Instead of replying, you raised your hand and quickly grabbed at the woman’s thumb, hooking your fingers under it and pulling it back as far as you could. With a shocked and pained yelp, she snatched her hand back, her expression growing angrier by the second. You immediately held the spearhead out in front of you, not knowing how to properly use it but knowing that you’d use it somehow if need be. 

“One tree cannot be a forest.”

Her words that somehow seemed threatening even if their vagueness coupled with the adrenaline racing through your body threw you for a loop, your guard dropping in the slightest. You shook your head, your face twisting into one of bewilderment.

“...What the hell are you talking about? Look, just take this back-”

The sound of your name being called drew the woman’s eyes over your shoulder and caused you to glance behind you. 

Shuri’s eyebrows were furrowed as she looked across the way at you, her steps leading her right to where you and the woman were semi hidden. Her steps quickened right as her eyes widened. Her mouth opened, calling your name hoarsely and sounding like…a warning. You saw her bound forward, her eyes angry…and then a sharp pain was enveloping your entire arm.

A ragged gasp escaped your mouth as you turned back to face the lady only to see her back running further away from you, the spearhead you had been previously holding clutched in her own hand. Another gasp left you at the sight of blood flowing heavily from a gash in your palm. 

The initial pain of the spearhead being ripped from your hand had been sharp and quick, though the following pain was heavy as it traveled the length of your arm. The sight of nothing but a deep red covering the palm of your hand made you shudder as you quickly brought it to your chest, clutching it tightly. 

You hadn’t realized that Shuri had reached you until her hands were quickly turning you around, her eyes wild and panicked as she looked you over. While your heart thudded almost painfully in your chest, you were still aware enough to quickly speak to Shuri.

“I’m okay. I’m okay, its just my hand.”

Despite your reassurances, however unconfident they were, her eyes still scanned your being until they instantly focused on the vibrant red that managed to drip through your uninjured palm and stain the sleeves of the button up you wore. 

She barked orders at the Dora Milaje who now surrounded you, telling them to find the woman by any means necessary, though her voice sounded far away. You worked on taking deep breaths and trying to calm your heart, though you failed at both tasks. You didn’t know you were shaking until Shuri’s hands raised to cup your face, forcing you to look at her while also steadying your shaking vision. 

“You’re alright, okay? You’ll be okay.”

Her words provided you the smallest bit of comfort, but it quickly dissipated as another wave of sharp pain wracked through your palm, making you wince. You didn’t dare look at the torn skin of your palm, too afraid that it’d make your already rolling stomach even worse.

Your limbs weren’t your own as Shuri steered you in a direction you were too discombobulated to notice. Every step you took was shaky, and the sounds and smells that you had once been enjoying now overstimulated you. They flashed by quickly, your head pounding in tandem as you were presumably led back to the vehicles you all had arrived in. 

Your mind raced too quickly and was too focused on the pain to even recall what had happened; the only thing you could focus on was the feeling of Shuri’s arm around you, pulling you flush against her body, and her quick words that she spoke to you. They were the same words over and over again, but as she spoke, it became clear that you weren’t the only person she was reassuring; almost as if she were reassuring herself as well. 

“You’ll be okay. You’ll be okay.”

molo/molweni: hello (sing./plur.)

Unjani? : how are you?

Ndiphilile, unjani?: I’m fine, how are you?

Nantso ke, uyfumene! : That’s it, you got it!

A/N: Once again, I hope y’all enjoyed this part! We’re really getting into the plot from here on out, yall >:) this is only the beginning of what I really want to happen, and I can’t wait to see how y’all react to it!

Stay safe, yall!

Tag list:   @shinsousliya , @honey-teaaaaaaaa , @tchhairbandhere , @jessiap , @zane2408 , @bananasplits-world , @yellowjacketmurder , @barkbarkbo , @butterflyybabe , @bananafishok , @zestgodtj , @mitsuya-takashi , @chaoticevilbakugo , @cedeni-beanie , @shuri-my-love , @kingstormpostsshit , @sailorsolar12 , @justariellove , @angelsmist , @eriksjournal , @mermaidchansons , @nil-eena , @paisholotus , @thesecretwriterblog , @brain-of-nekoma , @7tearsofatlantic , @simp4iwaizumi , @bumlyn , @jackdrawsjunk , @http-twyla , @cedeni-beanie , @taleiakirby , @brain-of-nekoma , @borderlineacademia , @honey-teaaaaaaaa , @ventingfanfics

[unexpectedbrickattack]

What do you think is the huggability score of our main characters + Brick out of 10?

Putting this under a readmore bc this is some EXTREME Research happening here

Peppino: 6/10. Hes short and hes fat and warm and soft so theoretically he SHOULD be a solid 10/10. But he sweats easily and i think physical contact would make him explode so hes shakes like a leaf the entire time. He will not return the hug well but he WILL make an attempt. If you catch him at a good time, hes got the perfect hugs. But maybe bring a napkin or two.

Pepperman: 1/10. Hes too gotdam big. He would love to be able to hug properly but hes very. Wide. And if he does manage to hug you properly, you will end up directly inbetween his eyes and unnervingly close to his teeth. This is also assuming he Wants to hug people; hes got better things to do. Like sculpt and draw and do rich people things like vacationing on a yacht or gaslighting poor people. (The actual pepperman portrait for the boss fight is very cute looking and i give that a 7/10 just bc i can. Hes got a lil painters apron; the whole fit makes him look huggable)

Vigilante: 3/10. It depends on your tolerance for odd textures. Hes just cheese. Hes cheese! Hes a bit sticky; he never leaves residue but the stickiness can be a bit offputting. Hes remarkably dense, so hugging him would be like hugging a memory foam mattress; wonderful pressure pushing against u but again. The texture… He would be a good weighted blanket; thats not a hug but do what you will with this information

The Noise: 7/10. He is small 🥺 Assuming the hug is earnest and Not a ploy to lower your guard, you are just hugging a Small Person. And we (small people) give the best hugs you can possibly have. But only if you let us hug around ur neck and not the midsection; he (we) cant wrap our arms around that. Points deducted bc the noise is just a menace and hed use a hug as an opportunity to chuck a potion of Explode Your House and then ur house Explodes.

Fake Peppino: 10/10. He can change shape and density at will; whatever you look for in a hug, he can do it. Light? Hes as delicate as a flower. Tight? Coiled like a snake. Dont like the goopy texture? For the time it takes to make this hug happen; the texture is Gone. This man Loves Hugs and with practice, has learned to give the Best hugs. As long as u dont mind his face and the odd way his skin seems to warp and bend in front of you.

Pizzahead: 2/10. TECHNICALLY capable of good hugs. Tall, long arms, friendly disposition. Massive point reduction bc hes doing one armed hugs to try and befriend you so he can sell you on this pyramid scheme he just Knows ur going to knock right out of the ballpark. Weaponized Hugs. Put him in Jail.

Gustavo: 9/10. Hes a gnome. Hes hairy and short and he always ALWAYS goes for the arms around the neck bc hes like 3’ tall. He is strong and so all hugs are tighter than you expect them to be and that can be good or bad depending on ur preference. He is also Small and Compact so hes very warm :) Solid hugs :)

Brick: 5/10. VERY pet-able!!! Imagine a rat but just Big. Hes SOFT and hes got Luscious Fur and wonderful little rat hands. But hugs are either 10/10 (rat owners dream) or 1/10 (texture hell). Hugs can be suffocating. Brick does Typical Rat Movements which includes snuffling your head very rapidly. Whiskers tickle. Rat Hands tickle. Brick MAY nibble at your head (beware). You wont be able to wrap your arms around this beast which may be a dealbreaker to some. But assume that this rat both Loves and Craves little huggles, so he is always an eager hugger :)

Noisette: 10/10. All the positives of Noise but without possible mischievous intent. She may fall asleep in your arms since she will be forced to stay still for longer than 2 seconds. Its endearing though.

Gerome: 7/10. Hes like Clay to me, like a block of playdoh. Tough enough to keep his shape, but soft enough that it doesnt Hurt to hug him. Hes not very soft or comfortable BUT hes got Intent behind his hugs. Hed only hug someone if they needed to be comforted and hes Very good at that. Very solid and grounding hugs if youre willing to hug a Block.

Snotty: 3/10. Smelly. So fucking smelly. Ranked higher than Pizzahead just to spite that twink.

[icemankazansky]

@film-in-my-soul tagged me in this really cool fic meme:

Everyone deserves to toot their own horn and be proud of their work! So, this tag game is fairly simple.

Promote 5 works that you're really proud of and share a little about why you're so proud of it! Then tag as many people as you like. You can reblog this post and add on to it (why not create a giant reclist to throw around?) or steal this header (and border if you like) and make your own post!

The Storm Series

Top Gun, Iceman/Maverick, E

Eight years after Maverick and Iceman meet at TOPGUN, Maverick is running the program and Iceman is badly injured in combat, which finds him sent back to Miramar to teach until he's fit to fly again. Things move pretty fast after that.

I'm proud of many things about Storm. It was my first major work for Top Gun, and I'm really happy with the characterization. The way the characters and their relationship evolve through the series—I'm proud of that, and I'm proud that I was able to pick up the series after eight years and write two more installments that belong in the universe with the first two. Despite all the ways I had changed as a person and a writer in the time between, I was able to slip back into it like an old coat, and that is something you strive for as an author.

Dreams of Impact

Top Gun, Iceman/Maverick, M

Maverick's trip in Darkstar takes him further than he ever imagined possible.

When I was a baby writer, I wrote a lot of really long stories. For several years, I worked with another writer on a collaboration that surpassed 200k words, and we never finished it. That was by far my longest work, but many of my stories pre-2010 are 10k, 20k, 50k.

Now it's rare that I write something that long. Part of that is that I learned how to say a lot without that many words. Pithy was a word I heard constantly in grad school, and I needed to learn how to do that. I have, and I'm a much better writer for it. I'm proud of that.

There are a lot of other reasons that I don't write long, multi-chapter epics anymore, everything from writing professionally to my health, and to be honest, sometimes I miss it. Dreams of Impact offered me a wonderful opportunity to get back to that kind of writing. I enjoyed writing the story very much, and I'm proud of how it turned out. The longer, more-plot heavy story muscles had not been flexed in a while, but I guess I still got it.

the weight of my heart is measured in carats

MCU, Tony/Pepper, G

What's so impressive about a diamond except the mining?

Remember what I said about pith? This one is like a good sword: perfectly weighted, perfectly balanced.

you are the moon that breaks the night for which i have to howl

Willow, Sorsha/Madmartigan, M

Magic leaves a trace, and part of the curse stayed in her blood, and Sorsha never forgot what it was like to be the wolf. Even after her mother transformed her back, the wolf lived still, tucked behind her breast.

I love magical realism, and I love making things into fairytales, and I love finding ways to fit discordant things together so they seem completely natural. I did all of those things very well in this story. It was also a gift for a dear friend who is also an excellent writer, and she absolutely lost her gotdam mind when she read it, and I am proud of that.

running through the underworld into your room

Top Gun, Iceman/Maverick, T

“Most of my grey hairs you gave me,” Ice said, unable to keep the fondness out of his voice even altered as it was. He paused. “You don’t know how much I wanted this. To grow old with you.”

This story is a standalone piece, but it was also—for me—an exercise (an exploration, maybe) in two very specific things. (It doesn't matter what. What does matter is: Not long after I had posted this, I talked to a couple people—dear friends but also writers I respect—about it once they'd read it, and they both told me how well I had done those two things, even though I hadn't mentioned them anywhere. I'm proud of that. It's extremely gratifying to know you can hit a target even if it's a target no one else can see.)

Tagging: @topgunreacts @escritoireazul @boasamishipper @maverickcalf @adiduck @hangsters @thelastplantagenet @andmakeithome