#he's just glad Barry isn't on the list

[ehliena]

Dick: Nothing Bruce Wayne does or has done surprises the Bats anymore.

Wally: Right, like wearing a Nightwi--

Dick: The list includes: Clark Kent, Oliver Queen, Selina Kyle, Talia Al Ghul, possibly Lex Luthor on a dare...

[nothingbutnowhere]

I was trying to see how many days in a row I could post (only three apparently lol pretty bad), but that's because I went to dinner and a concert last night with friends because it was my birthday!! It was really fun and I'm super glad I got to go!! In light of that, I'm working on a fic where price coordinates a whole night with reader and his boys on their birthday (a newly established poly!141 x reader situation, gonna be a longer one).

I've also some other actual smut bouncing around in the the ol noggin besides the honestly baffling amount of fluff I've written so far:

Kyle doing unspeakable things to genderneutral(gn)!reader in public (you're so pretty and he wants everyone to see that you're his >:-))

Cont. below the cut

A fic based off this blurb from This Post: He's told you he sleeps like shit when he's gone and you tut that it's because he doesn't have access to his CPAP (they make travel ones you know). He said it was 'cause he didn't have access to something else and that was the end of that conversation (he went to bend you over the kitchen counter but you slipped away giggling, only to end up tossed over his shoulder on the way to the bedroom)."

Free use thoughts with gn!reader

Reader use Prices's voice to their benefit and the boys weasel themselves into it as they often seem to do. (I wouldn't have to do this if his VA Barry Sloane didn't deliver his lines like that. Who told him he had the right to do that. Honestly.)

Lots more hypervigilant!reader, two blurbs are in the 'masterlist' here

And the thing I have the least amount of experience writing: pet play. Puppy!johnny (or hybrid, idk I can't take hybrids 100% serious tho I only end up writing silly goofy things when I think about it, which isn't bad but not always the vibe) lives rent free in my head. Even though he causes a lot of damage. We're not getting our security deposit back :( But I also love meandom!johnny. And switch!johnny x dom!simon x switch!reader......

One thing to know about me is there's like 5 different versions of any given blorbo kept in jars in my head and I just take turns shaking them around and observing them.

Oh and also ghoap x reader (a threesome x reader is so important to me personally), you tie Johnny up and Simon tells you what to do to take him apart. If you and Johnny are good you get a reward :) (I have a thing about character A telling character B 'behave' I literally cannot tell you why. I'm under an NDA, actually.)

So that's all that nonsense. If I stick with it for the next few months I might be able to cross everything off the list. I'm really not good at consistency but I'm gonna make an attempt.

[lysteriaposts]

OBX 3 TIER LIST

i wanted to make a review but um... it took me like a week to finish the whole thing.. which should say enough.. and honestly i don't really feel like rewatching the majority of the episodes lol. i'll just give my reasons for the tiers instead.

this is probably my most unpopular one yet.

the only emotional journeys i connected with this season was topper, rafe and pope.

cleo could've been there if they actually focused more on her as a person rather than being thrown into a relationship and having that be the focus of her arc, same with kiara. still, i find cleo / pope duo way more watchable than jj / kiara. and she is a nice character.

i actually wished we'd seen kiara be kidnapped half of the season at singh's so that, a) the reunion actually feels more earned b) her and rafe's scenes were gold and probably the most interesting things for her character this season c) we could learn more about the "new, evil villain" and his motives. instead he felt out of place.

as for singh, he could cut it with the "you knows" ....

topper and kiara delivered on the comedy this season though, which is one reason they placed higher.

CAN'T FORGET BARRY

jj's whole "i don't want to be loved" thing felt half assed and he didn't crack me up the way he did s1-2... the humor felt kind of cartoonish (crabs 🫥). i still don't like how they dumb him down to an actual caricature, it was endearing and believable in s1 but it's just gotten worse each season for cheap slapstick. it's not funny.

i wanted more conflict between him and pope and their friendship

i didn't need jj / kiara to be honest... had no relevance to what was going on, and felt very dry. like they were trying to churn out something that just isn't there, and i didn't recognise the characters either.

rafe just elevates any scene he's in and any character he's with. i give props to drew 'cause even though the writing feels more serious for his character than the others, it probably wouldn't come across as good as it does without a good enough actor. luckily enough he's been spared from most of the corniness on this show.

the john b/sarah/topper thing is repetitive but i'm glad we got to see a story where topper isn't villainised (in the show, just by the pogues). he saved sarah's life, yet gets used and discarded. she keeps making the same mistakes, and the john b/big john stuff was just atrocious. he suddenly trusts the dad who abandoned him for years over his ride or die friends? the gf who sacrificed everything for him?? yeah ok dude.

the complete absence of rose but wheezie especially is unrealistic as hell. i don't understand why new, annoying characters are introduced (limbray.... singh... jb's dad) when they don't amount to anything in the end and there is no investment in them. we could've seen so many good family relationships and dynamics, how does the completely overlooked youngest sibling view everything? actually an episode from her POV would've been hilarious and also insanely interesting.

as much as i prefer ward over jb's dad and liked him as a villain... he didn't play a big enough part in this season to keep (he is also irredeemable). i think they could've killed him off in s2. and rafe could've dealt with the aftermath of that this season instead of s4.

the treasure thing felt contrived and way too much for one season. i don't really get the pacing, they don't need to find something new each season they can take a break once in a while and have like every other season be more obx / character focused. and the rest plot. that way when they do find something it feels much greater! what they did over the course of these three seasons could've easily been stretched to six seasons with better writing and giving the story room to breathe, develop a lot of other things etc... instead of making up "blackbeard" 💀

there's much more to say, and a lot of issues with the production and more nitpicky faults, but these are probably my biggest issues with the story. in the end it was a very disjointed season, probably my least favorite so far.

[mermaidsirennikita]

so i know the globes are no longer relevant (or at least they shouldn't be) but i will still be asking for your thoughts on the nominations.

Hahahaha thanks for your consideration!

Best Picture--Drama: I'm so glad to see Past Lives nominated! It was really gorgeous and made me cry and was touching in a way I didn't expect.

Oppenheimer obviously was going to get nominated. It's probably my favorite Nolan movie besides The Prestige (which SLAPS) so I'm fine with this. It is very impressive, even if it's a sausage fest per Nolan and it probably runs too long and has some issues (the depiction of women).

Kills of the Flower Moon... is one of my favorite movies this year. I will acknowledge critiques from Osage people noting that it is a white perspective, which I agree with; I also agree with the comments that it is the best possible perspective someone like Scorsese could offer. The acting is phenomenal across the board, the visuals are stunning, it actually EARNED its runtime, and the writing is really strong. Fantastic movie, should win this category in my opinion.

I haven't seen Maestro but based on the various issues I'm seeing surrounding it and Bradley Cooper doing... the most... for promo, I'm very turned off by it right now. I will see it in order to critique it honestly, but I'm not super thrilled to see it here.

Haven't seen the other two. This will be a battle between Oppy and KOTFM imo.

Best Picture--Musical/Comedy: I don't see a world where Barbie doesn't win this. I thought Barbie was a lot of fun, and Ryan Gosling was fab. But I don't really fully subscribe to the hype.

I'm excited for Poor Things but haven't seen it; I love Yorgos's eye and I think he and Emma do make a great team, even if I'm meh on her in general.

The Holdovers I haven't seen and don't super want to see but my brother says he's forcing me to see it so I guess I will.

May December is a great movie. It's not a comedy in any way, shape, or form. But this category usually does that so I'm not surprised. This is a dark, intense, heartbreaking, tragic movie. It's deeply disturbing. I love it, but it's not a comedy.

Haven't seen the other two.

Best Director: Again, BCoops is being insufferable and I generally dislike everything I'm hearing about this. Sorry you didn't get an Oscar nom for ASIB my guy, get over it.

I knew Greta would be nominated and I will say that I love the visuals of that movie, but I think the visual greatness of Barbie is super dependent on the production and costume design, so... I'm not saying it isn't deserved, but I'm not in love with it.

Again, haven't seen Poor Things by Yorgos is fab.

Nolan was a foregone conclusion, I think the movie does look great and is very interesting.

Scorsese should win, sorry, he put his heart and soul into that movie and you could tell with every bit of it. Listen, people can dog this man out all they want, but he is THAT GUY and I consider him one of the last Truly Legend Status directors working right now, so. I think this will go to Oppenheimer, but. Meh.

And again, I'm happy to see Celine Song nominated! Past Lives had a really unique vibe to it and I think she offered a film that we don't see as much of anymore.

Screenplay--Based on what I've seen on this list, should be KOTFM, I can see it going to Barbie. Oppy being written in the first person might woo some people, though.

Best Actor--Drama: Should absolutely be Cillian, he carried that movie and it wouldn't have worked without him. Just a fabulous performance. I can see Leo maaaaybe edging him out? He was really good in KOTFM. It is truly wild to me that Barry was nominated, lol, I haven't seen a rush of buzz for him in Saltburn though he is the best part of the movie. I don't think it was his best work, compared to Banshees.

Best Actress--Drama: If this isn't Lily Gladstone I'll screech. Incredibly moving, and another movie where this thing would not have worked if anyone else had played that role. I don't see this category being super competitive against her.

Best Actress--Comedy/Musical: I can see them giving it to Margot for the press. I think Emma has had the strongest buzz of this category, but Fantasia could totally dark horse it.

Best Actor/Comedy Musical--I have no opinion on this, but I'm going for Jeffrey Wright because he's generally so good.

Best Supporting Actor--Charles Melton DESERVES this, people. He's amazing in May December. Heart crushing. An absolute breakout revelation performance.

One person I could see him giving him a run for his money is De Niro, because he was also amazing in KOTFM. Absolutely loathsome. I can also see them giving it to RDJ, because he is entertaining in Oppy, and I'm getting "it's time" vibes, which I hate... but Charles has also been cleaning up with smaller critics' awards.

Best Supporting Actress--Da'Vine is getting some great reviews, I feel like she's got a really good shot. Julianne is very good in May December, but she's also a very decorated actress. Um, sorry, Emily Blunt was not anything special in Oppy and if she gets this I'll be so baffled.

Best TV Series--Drama: I can see this going to Succession or possibly The Last of Us. Succession has the final season going for it, and it was actually amazing. TLOUS has fandom hype going for it, which the Globes likes. The Diplomat won't win, but fwiw I liked that show a lot.

Best TV Series--Comedy: Abbott Elementary better win is all I'll say. The Bear and Barry shouldn't even be in this category lol.

Best TV Actor--Drama: I feel like this will be a duke it out between Jeremy and Kieran. I'd be thrilled with either winning, but Jeremy's already won and Kieran has an "it's his time" vibe, his last shot to win with what may end up being the defining performance of his career. Brian Cox is such a dick for submitting in this category and the awards shows are such dicks for nominating him, lol.

Best Actress--TV Drama: If Sarah Snook doesn't win I'm burning this city to the ground. Why is Emma even nominated lmao. I do love a Keri Russell, but nah man, nobody here compares to Snook.

Best Actress--TV Comedy: Tbh I think Elle gave the best performance in this category.... easily.... but Quinta is great and I'd love to see her win, too.

Best Actor--TV Comedy: I don't care for any of these nominees. Nicholas Hoult outsold everyone here, bummer that he doesn't have a nom.

Best Supporting Actor-TV: I'd love for Alan Ruck to pick something up, but Matty Mac did once again obliterate lol. Askars was amazing but I don't think he had enough PUNCHY moments.

Best Support Actress--TV: Elizabeth Debicki was great but didn't have the material, imo. Christina Ricci would be my pick here, but I feel like it's gonna go to Hannah Waddingham because last season and all that.

Best Limited Series--Beef is easily the best one here, but the horrible way that the casting controversy was handled may have ruined their shot. In that sense, I think Steven gave the best performance but it could go to Matt Bomer or Jon Hamm. For actress, I would've picked Ali Wong but.... Also, I will say, nobody saw Dead Rings but me apparently but I'm so glad Rachel Weisz got nominated here because she was INCREDIBLE. Will probably go to Brie Larson knowing my luck, though I don't think Lessons in Chemistry made the impact they thought it would.

Best Supporting Actress--Limited: Glad to see Carla here, she was great. I have no idea who this will go to but it probably won't be here lmao. Also, The Fall of the House of Usher should've gotten a nom for best Limited, but c'est la vie the awards shows hate horror. Also, I don't know if this is controversial but brave... I would've nominated Bruce for Best Actor. That could be my weird attraction to him in that role speaking, though.

[allinmycorner]

I remember going home when I was in middle school, grabbing a snack and then settling down to watch TRL to see what the top videos were for that day. I was a big Backstreet Boy fan so I always cheered for them to be on the list and hoped they were number one. But I loved watching the music videos and I also loved Pop-Up video, where they would put facts either about the song, the video or just some fun trivia (like popping up a fact about how most people in Africa are Muslim so they don't celebrate Christmas during the video for "Do They Know It's Christmas?").

So I was pretty excited for this theme night.

Paula Abdul joined the panel to judge the remaining stars as they danced routines inspired by some iconic music videos. They were tasked to incorporate the dance moves from the videos while remaining true to the dance style assigned to them. And then in the second round, we had the team dances.

Who is still standing after Music Video Night and who had to say Bye, Bye, Bye? Find out!

Lele and Brandon: Lele had a great night and Brandon was right that she didn't deserve to go home. It looks like the judges agreed - I caught Derek mouthing "Wow" after her elimination and then he and a concerned-looking Bruno had a pow-wow. She was assigned to dance to Shakira's "Whenever, Wherever" and rose to the challenge, letting her hips do the talking. Yes, she her lifts were a little clunky but everything else was amazing. She should've made it further but I'm glad she made as far as she did. We'll miss you, Lele.

Ariana and Pasha: This is likely to become another iconic routine. Ariana really channeled Britney for her cha-cha to "I'm a Slave 4 U" and I think incorporated the classic moves best into her cha-cha. She really did nail the middle where she led the pros in the routine from the video. Everyone was absolutely on point and Ariana looked like a pro herself. No wonder she topped the leaderboard and earned immunity from the dance off next time!

Xochitl and Val: Xochitl talked about directing a music video for a friend and how it was a great experience. She and Val then did a jazz routine to Gwen Stefani's "Hollaback Girl" and she handled it well until she had a little malfunction with her costume. She struggled to put on the replica of Stefani's band coat and her hat fell off. But she seemed to recover nicely to finish the routine, though the stumble did cost her some points with the judges.

Charity and Artem: I was a bit surprised Charity ended up in the bottom three but I think it might be the jolt she needs. The judges gave her some good critiques for her jazz routine to Janet Jackson's "All for You" but I don't know if she can achieve the one thing she needs to really elevate her performances - have an emotional connection rather than just focusing on being technically perfect. All the female pros spent time with her and had a brunch with her but I don't know if it's something you can teach. Paula talked about how Janet Jackson tapped into her inner power and channeled that, which is what Charity needs to do. I just don't know if she can.

Jason and Daniella: I don't know why Derek thought Jason's routine was more of a Week 1 or 2 dance. I thought it was great. One of the judges noted it was a proper jazz routine and I thought it felt like something that would be performed on Broadway. Jason and Daniella really captured the feel of "Take On Me" and still made it feel fresh and new. I think they should've been higher.

Alyson and Sasha: I think Charity needs to learn from Alyson. While Alyson isn't the most technical dancer, there is something about her ability to connect with the music that elevates them. I could tell she was having fun with her quickstep to Christina Aguilera's "Candyman" and she let that give her energy to tackle the dance. And it shone through in her performance, drawing people in. That's what Charity needs to tap into and channel to elevate her performances.

Barry and Peta: Barry's reaction to seeing Bruno in the video for Elton John's "I'm Still Standing" was priceless. I loved it. He also had a lot of fun with his quickstep, much like Peta. There were times where it didn't feel very "quick" but I'm not sure if that was due to the music or Barry. Because when he did step it up, he handled it well and made the routine shine. Either way, it was pretty fun to watch - especially when he got to shower Bruno with some glitter.

Harry and Rylee: Harry and Rylee were assigned to dance a jazz routine to NSYNC's "It's Gonna Be Me" so Lance Bass stopped by to give Harry some tips and to help with the choreography. During the routine, Harry was strongest when dancing the video choreography with Gleb and Alan but didn't carry that confidence over when he was dancing with Rylee. There's more to say about Harry but I'll wait for the team dances.

Now it's time for the team dances! Harry and Alyson were appointed the team captains. Harry chose Lele, Xochitl and Charity for his team and they were assigned Gangnam Style as their song. So they chose to name themselves Team Young 'N Style since everyone on the team were younger members of the competition. Meanwhile, Alyson's team included Jason, Ariana and Barry and they were assigned "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)" for their song. So they decided to call themselves Team 4 Everybody.

Team Young 'N Style: This was a fun routine to watch. Everyone was in sync and rose to the challenge. I believe Lele and Brandon had the strongest solo portion and it just highlighted how much of a shame it was that they were eliminated. Derek noted afterwards that Harry is better in a group than solo and I have to agree. He was strongest when everyone danced together but was weak in his solo portion. Unfortunately, I don't think he and Rylee can just dance in a group until the end of the competition so he needs to figure out how to bring that to his solo routines.

Team 4 Everybody: It was another fun routine though maybe not as tight as Team Young 'N Style's. Jason, Alyson and Ariana had strong solo sections while Barry's was the weakest. But they clearly had a lot of fun together and I think Alyson really stepped up as the team captain. I also loved the end where they all switched partners and danced in same sex couples. And I loved how much of a Backstreet fan Ariana is that she nearly collapsed in tears when AJ McLean walked into the room to give them some pointers in rehearsal. Same, Ariana, same.

And Music Video Night is in the books. I wonder after a string of unexpected eliminations - Mira, Mauricio and now Lele - if the producers are considering bringing back the judges' save. Or maybe we'll go the entire season without it. Right now, I feel I could only understand Alyson possibly winning it all as she has been the most improved dancer in my opinion. But I guess we'll see what happens next time.

Speaking of next time, Billy Porter will be the guest judge as the remaining couples dance to the music of the one and only Whitney Huston. Can't wait to share my thoughts on those performances as well as the dance off!

See you then!

[queerasfact]

hello qomrades, long time listener first time caller. Some scattershot suggestions from Irish history to add to your long list -

1. Eva Gore Booth - she gets overshadowed by her sister (revolutionary leader, the first female cabinet minister in europe) but Eva was a lesbian, poet, suffragist, occultist, and labour organiser. She wanted to abolish gender and marriage. in classic delicate aristocrat style, she met her wife when they were both on The Continent for their Health.

2. Roger Casement - called 'the father of human rights journalism', traitor to the british government, people tell me he's very sexy, he certainly kept meticulous sex diaries while plotting against the british crown and uncovering human rights violations in Congo.

3. Kathleen Lynn - founded the first children's hospital in the country, labour organiser, revolutionary, & I can'd find the exact quote but after an uprising she and her gf were imprisoned first together in a gross cell, and then seperately, in nicer cells, and she wrote in her diary something like "I would give 10,000 pounds for Kilmainham and Madeline" :')

I might be able to help with sources - I know a guy in the Irish Queer Archive, and I live in the northwest of ireland, near where Eva Gore Booth grew up. I also travel to Dublin fairly regularly. hmu if needed.

& last point on me being gay and Irish - I ADORED your episodes on James Barry. My partner has a huge interest in barry and has done a lot of research on him. It's refreshing to hear this guy who went to such lengths to be understood as a man .... actually discussed as a man.

Hey Qomrade, thanks for this message! Having studied Irish history at school, I was musing just the other day on how we've hardly covered it on Queer as Fact - and those Irish people we have covered have largely emigrated elsewhere. So this was a very timely list of suggestions =) And thank you kindly for your offer of archival assistance. We'll keep it in mind - I'm keen for us to do more archival work and share history that isn't necessarily available to everyone.

So glad you enjoyed the episode on James Barry too. If only such basic decency to trans historical figures wasn't refreshing but instead the norm.

Hope you have a lovely day

-Alice

[linksthoughtbrambles]

Like a hundred-pound draw.

Part 47 of Link's Thought Brambles

“Those two get along handsomely.”

They really do.  They both sure like the fudge.  Trading bites of all the different kinds.  Zelda’s surprisingly good with Chee.  And it gives me a chance to give mom a gentle slow dance.  I’m guessing everyone else is afraid to touch Sir Lyle’s wife with a ten-foot pole. Not that I think her feelings are hurt, but sitting on a hard seat all evening isn't pleasant.

“It’s helping your sister feel better.”

“…Hhh.  Yeah.”

“Now, Link, tell me truthfully.  How foul has your language become since you got here?”

“Aw, mom-“

“Pff- hh hh hh- honestly, Link, you’re a grown man, and I’ve little right to criticize your speech.  But did you have to let that out around Chee?  She’ll certainly use it as an excuse to let it out her own mouth.”

“I was surprised.”  Who knows what the hell Robbie’s seeing with those weird goggles, though.  For all I know, he can see me ALL the time.  That’s a nightmare-inducing thought.

“I’ll keep a list.  Each time she says it at home, it gets added and sent with your next letter.  Then you can see the consequences of your actions.”

“Ehh.  It won’t be that bad.  She’ll curse at the cuccos and Linda, that’s all.”

“And neither of them will deserve it.  That poor cow.  Your sister’s not as considerate of her as you.”

“She’ll get there, she just doesn’t have the patience yet.  Are you doing any of the milking or just Chee?”

“Mostly Chee.  Sometimes Barrie comes to help and we send him home with milk and eggs, or something sweet if he’s lucky.”

“Apples?”

“Oh yes, just Chee and Barrie there, too.  You didn’t think I’d be climbing for them?”

“Just making sure.  I’d have yelled at her.”

“No need, my Link.  She’s a good girl, just wild.  It’s a good way to be.  I’m not sure where she gets it from, for it’s in neither my nature nor your father’s.  You’re like her and yet unlike, too.”

Father.

“…Link?  I just felt your heart quicken.”

It’s not like she’s going to know, either.

“My darling, please.  I can see something unpleasant’s crossed your mind.”

“…Did I do something wrong?”

“Like what?”

“I… I don’t know?  I mean obviously, I’ve done a million things wrong since I got here, but I think father expected that.  It must’ve been something really bad.”

“…Do you mean since he hasn’t written?  You said you expected that.”

“I- I did, but then when I pulled the sword… I just thought he’d say something.  Send a letter telling me what a serious responsibility it was, or just race back here on horseback to make sure I didn’t make a total ass of myself.”  Mom squeezes.

“I’d have expected that, too.  He was destined for Tabantha Village, followed by the wild mountains of Hebra.  He may simply be snowed in.”

“For three months?”

.

Yeah.  I don’t think so, either. We're only approaching winter now... not that there isn't snow in Hebra even in summer, but now's not optimal snow-in time.

.

“Did he seem okay when he left?”

“More than okay.  He was-”

That is such a complicated look.  Sad about having been very happy and not being so happy anymore.

“He smiled so much, Link.”

“…Really?”  …Was he glad I was gone?

“He was so proud of you.  Told me you made short work of all the other trainees and even some of the knights before he left.”

…Oh.  “He didn’t say anything to me about that.”

Rubbing my shoulder.

“That’s just him.  Well.  He played with Laichee a good deal more than usual.  He did one of those rib roasts in the pit outside.  Without you around to help us eat it, I ended up sending Chee running through town with the extras.”

“Hehe, why’d he make something as big as that?”

“Well… It’s something he’s good at cooking, and he seemed to be making a special effort to take some of the chores off my shoulders.”

“Because of the baby?”

“Oh no.  He didn’t know about that yet.”

Right, right, duh!  “Well, I’m glad he was so nice.”

“He was more than nice, Link my dear.  He was romantic.”

Ewwwwwwwwwwww-

“Oh, come now.  That face!  Your father has a loving heart, just as you do.  I don’t make faces at you and your Princess.”

It’s… different when it’s your parents.

The king and half his guard are talking over near the door.  Planning?  We won’t be in this room much longer.  It must be past 6:30.  Probably later.  Zelda… eh, she’s busy.  She’ll probably check the slate when-

Oh, dumbass… YOU Have the slate.

Right.

Just a twist up and a quick tap.

“Link?”

“Sorry, just checking the time.  It’s… 6:35.”  Not much time left in this room at all.  And Purah clearly did not shut the slate off, because there’re all my thoughts just showing up on the screen and wow that is fascinating what if I think something that isn’t a real word like FOOFAAAA

“Haha!”

“Link?”

“Sorry.  Distracting myself.”  Put it away, Link.  You’ll have time to mess with it later.  Pay attention to your mom!  “Are you feeling okay?  With being pregnant again?”

“Yes.  Nothing too difficult.  I’ll make an extra effort to stay awake tonight.  I’ve been tiring out early.”

“Oh, mom, are you tired?  Do you want to go sit down?”

“Not yet, dear.  Too much sitting isn’t good, either.  The song's ending, though, isn’t it?  And I’m sure you’d like time to dance with your lovely Princess before the night’s done.”

“Well… yeah, but she’s also eating dessert, and believe me, I don’t want to interrupt that.  Until last week, she’d been all but starving herself.”

A shoulder squeeze.

“Why?”

“Kind of complicated.   Pressure, for sure.  Feeling- feeling like a failure.  Punishing herself for it.  Anyway, if she feels like eating, I sure won’t stop her.”

Here comes Jeralt.  Time to relay plans?

“Madam Junilla, may I have this dance?”

Wow!

“Oh!  Well, yes, if my son will agree.”

Guess he’s not terrified father’ll hang him by his ankles when he comes back.  “Sure, why not?  Have fun.”

It’s another gentle beat.  Zuho’s keeping it slow for the end.

Maybe I’ll wander over to the girls and see if I can resist trying all the fudge.  I really shouldn’t overdo it tonight.  After we’re all done in the bailey I’m dragging Zelda down to the kitchen so we canNO NO NO, I’m not.  We have other plans.

Maybe I can incorporate this plan into that plan.

And maybe they’ll save us some desserts for tomorrow.

Yeaaah.  Yeah, don’t mess with the first plan.  Food can wait.  Fudge keeps forever.  Except of course that everyone else’ll eat it.

“Link, you really ought to try some of this butter-nut fudge.  It’s extraordinary.”

“The wildberry one’s better!”

“Your sister and I have had a slight disagreement on that subject.  We do, however, both believe the dark chocolate version to be ‘righteous.’”

“Righteous?”

“Yeah because it’s SOOO good it puts all the other ones to shame.”

“Pff.  Guess I have to try all three.  Uh- unless there are others you recommend instead.  I want to keep myself mobile.  No overdoing it.”

“Yeah those three are the best, Link.  Right, Princess?”

“They are.  And I do believe after he eats these, your brother and I may dance again.”

“Yeaaaaah of couuuurse you will.  Wonder where that kid Tobe went?”

“He’s probably in the kitchen.”

“Oh, should I-?”

“No, Chee, stay with the group.  Later you can find him, though.  Or tomorrow.”

“Ria did say she’d be bringing the children back out to the festival after the ball.”

“Oh, yeah.  Great, that’ll work out.  Ria’s meeting us at the storeroom again with the Princess’ clothes.”

“Does that mean that crazy little girl’s coming, too?”

“Myrri.  Yeah, she should be.”

“She is NUTS.”

“Reminds me of someone else.”

“I was never that crazy.”

“Ohhh yes you were.  Not so fond of bugs, though.”

“Or thorns.”

“Yeah, true-“

“Or word jokes, that’s YOUR thing.”

“Uh.  Yeah, I guess so-“

“She is cute, though.  Not saying she isn’t.  She’s just not so much like me.”

“Hmmmm.”  Is it worth arguing with her about this?

….No.  “Okay.”

“What do you mean okay?”

Uh.  “… I mean okay.”

“You’re not gonna argue?”

“…No.  I’m going to eat this piece of fudge.  And then… this one.  And then that one.”

 And YUM.

Why do I have to be a high-ranking officer already?  The captain of the Princess’ personal guard?  The sword-bearer?  A fricking general?  If I were just a lowly guardsman, it would be totally acceptable for me to wait around in the hallway until the ball was over, sneak in, and then suck up as many of these little things as I could stick in my face before the waiters fought me off.

But no.  I’m me.  And I cannot behave like a living fudge-tornado.  Some reasons are social.  Others unknown-danger-related.

That’s the butter-nut one down the hatch.  “That was amazing.”

“Try the berry one!!”

Also yum.

Yet I feel as if both the Princess and my sister may have missed something critical.

What if you put BOTH in your mouth at the same time?

“Alright, look, you two.  These are both fantastic.  Can you eat more or are you stuffed?”

“I got space.” “I can handle more.”

“Okay.  I have to go easy. I think you should each put both in your mouth at the same time and tell me what you think.”

Chee-shrug.  Zelda-very-polite-royal-nod-bow-thing like she’s taking this as a very serious request.

Both mouths loaded.  Much chewing.  Much thoughtful face-scrunching.

“Mmmm, I don’t know, Link.” “Not as good.”

“What?!”

“Mmm.  No, it simply wasn’t meant to be.”

“It just sort of tastes confusing.”

“Aww.”

“Oh dear.  I believe your brother was hoping to live vicariously through us.”

“He DID live vicariously through us.   We just didn’t get this spectacular experience he was expecting.”

“Poor Knight.  Perhaps we ought try with the chocolate.”

I didn’t even try the chocolate by itself, yet.

“Pffff, your face.  Here.”

Thanks, Chee.  Wow.  WOW.  “This…. Is unbelievably good.”

“Yup.”

“…It’s perfect.”

“Indeed!”

“… We can’t adulterate this.”

“Why, Sir Knight. Do you dare dictate what I may or may not put in my mouth?”

In through the nose. Out… also through the nose, because I’m chewing.  Yes.  Calm.  Find her eyes.  “Apologies, Princess.  I would only dare to dictate what goes in mine.”

Wait for it.

Oh yes.  Reward.  Pink ear-tips!

“Are we doing this, or what?”

“…Certainly, Chee.  How shall we approach this?”

“I say you try your flavor with the chocoloate and I try mine with the chocolate.”

“How reasonable.  Let’s.”

They’re adulterating it.  I hope it’s worth it!

Deep concentration.  They haven’t even opened their eyes.

“Hmmm.”

“Mmmm, yeah.”

“… Well?”

“The butter fudge has calmed the punch of the dark chocolate while the nuttiness accentuates the bitter overtones.  On the whole, I like it, but I believe both flavors were better alone.”

“Not me Princess! This is SO awesome!  Berry chocolate fudge!  Try it, Link, try it!”

“I’m really trying not to eat that much, Chee.”

“If I was able to take in a significant amount of fudge, I believe you would not be remiss to indulge in a little more.  Chee’s flavor was, apparently, quite remarkably paired.”

Wellll….

I’m nowhere near full.

Which was the point.

I don’t want to be walking around out there feeling full and sluggish.  And I definitely don’t want to be resisting the urge to relieve myself.

Can I do those two little fudge cubes?

I think I can do it.

“Alright… last thing.  You’re sure this is worth it, Chee?”

Wild head-nods.

“Okay.” One dark chocolate, one wildberry.

Ohhhhhh.

No, Link.  No.  Chew slowly.  Do NOT swallow it. Do not.  Let it… exist… in your mouth.  It can’t last forever, because the longer it’s in my mouth, the more saliva I make, and I can’t just keep letting my mouth fill up and then drool chocolate-water all over my front.  So… swallow just enough to clear it all out.

“Hey Princess?”

“Yes, Chee?”

“Sh sh sh-“

“Heh… alright…”

“Does he make that face when you smooch?”

“OH- hahahaha-“ “KMPH-“

Uugh.  I saved it, at least.  None of it left my mouth.

“Well.  Ah- not exactly-”

“Huh.  Does she?”

“Chee!”

“You gotta try harder.”

“You would NOT know.”

“I know what you look like when you think something’s AMAZING.”

You may think you do…

“I take it, then, that you approved of the wildberry and dark chocolate combination.”

“Ohh yes.  Really really good.”

“Hm hmm.  Really, really good.”

Where did that wicked little twinkle in her eye come from?

“I shall keep that in mind.”

…Keep what in mind?  The words?  The look on my face?  The food itself?

She’s… not going to tell me.  Just pulling me back out to the dance floor.  Bye, Chee- “Oh!”

“Link?”

“We need to look at the pictures on the slate.”

“Oh.  Yes.”

Disappointed.  Very very disappointed.  “Sorry.”

“No, you’re right of course.  Here, let me-“

…Link.  She’s just untying the slate.  That’s all.  There’s nothing suggestive about it.  You can’t even feel her hands on you.  Just tugs.  She’s not undoing your laces.  She’s not.  Stop thinking about it.  She’s clearly not even thinking about it.  That’s all-business-face.  I wouldn’t want her to have that face on.  If she did, I’d have to stop her and ask what’s wrong.  I’d want her to have that look… the look she had when we returned to the castle.  When she asked me to put her arm around her shoulders.  Her eyes darker.  Lips parted.  Moving slowly, not trying to finish as fast as possible.  Drawing out the moment.  Maybe- maybe running her fingertips first, before even touching the laces, to- to- to-

Link…

Stop it!

…That’s… she- she’s upright, now.  Studying my face.

“Why, Link.  You appear suddenly too warm.”

Warm doesn’t even begin to cover it.

“Let’s get you seated.”

Yes, Princess.

Think cool things, Link.  Um.  Snow?  Does that help?

…Not really.

How many times have I been saved by the fact that I wear thick, rugged pants and a tunic?  This isn’t so bad.  Nothing like what happened when she pulled me into that storeroom.  Still, would be embarrassing if I was dressed like that guy over there in the tight trousers and shiny doublet.

…How do those people stay sane?

How do they stay CALM?

He’s dancing with a very pretty woman.  I think they’re married, I’ve seen them together here before.  Maybe that’s how?  Maybe it’s not new anymore?   Or maybe other people just aren’t as distractible as I am.

That last one could easily be it.

“Here.”

Seat.

Calm.

Pictures.  Important.

She’s turning it on.  Aaaand there are my thoughts again, still weird- oh!  “That’s all you have to do to get rid of it?”

“Ah- eh, yes.  A simple swipe.”

That was easy.  Amazing it took her so long to figure that out!

“Album.”

A bunch of nature pictures.  Guess she unloaded the ones at the ancient columns when she was at the lab.  Whoops.  Guess I did take a picture at the lab after all, but it was of my feet.

“Eh hehehehe.  I didn’t look at this.  You did fumble, didn’t you?”

“Erm.  Yeah.”   Wow, she didn’t look?  She must’ve been ceaselessly occupied.

She has been, really.  Not only with the slate itself at first but also with all the drama.

There has been SO MUCH DRAMA.

And then the training yard, and prep for the festival, and researching blessings, and somehow finding time to make me not one but TWO new tunics.  I’m guessing Jirolie makes the pattern itself and Zelda sews it.  Still… she can’t have been getting much sleep at all.

She’s done a lot for me in the last few days.  She didn’t have to loop me in on the festival stuff.  She wanted to.  I was… feeling overwhelmed.  By my position.  By my own… confusions in my head that don't let me relax.  By the other people in this castle… and by the king scaring the absolute living s@#$ out of me.  Zelda helped a lot.  She notices more than she lets on, doesn’t she?

“Here are the ones Purah took looking back at the crowd as we departed.  The ones most likely to contain something, perhaps?”

It’s a sea of people.  So many.  “Is anyone obviously… ugh.”

“Indeed.  We are public figures, and therefore do draw a certain amount of scrutiny.”

A lot of those people have their faces turned toward us.  It’s… not going to be an obvious lurker, is it?

Next one.  Not all that different.  A few people have turned away, a few toward.

Next.  No… no obvious clues.

“Anything stick out to you?”

“No, Link—unfortunately not.  Let’s try the earlier ones.”

In the bailey proper.  While we were walking.

So many curious looks.  Lots of kids.

Heh- hey, there’s Mrs. Rocelle’s head. Looks like she tried to wave at us, we didn’t see her… “That bugs me, Princess.”

“What does?”

“Look.  She tried to say hello and we didn’t even notice.  The people crush is so much we’re missing things that should be obvious.”

“…It is worrisome.  Especially for you.  You’re more exposed than I am.  Someone… Link, someone could easily be carrying a knife in that crowd.”

“…I react fast.  As long as I see it coming, I think I could stop it.”

“I’d feel better were you in the center with me.”

“No way.”

“Why not?”

“It’s an obvious tip-off.  I’m your appointed knight.  I protect you.  If we suddenly change that, it’s obvious we’re afraid of something.”

“Is that such a detriment?”

“You don’t think an ordinary person, seeing that, would be worried for their own safety?  At least part of the point of all this is to give these people hope.  We can’t look like we’re terrified.  Protecting you is reasonable—you’re the crown princess.  Protecting me?  That sends nasty signals.  And… at least now we have a vague idea of where the danger is.  Part of me is hoping it’ll pop up and we can deal with it now rather than end the day wondering what it was.”  And never be able to sleep soundly again.

Not that I do now.

“… I shall defer to you on this.  I… am not a knight.”

“Not exactly.  You’re a marshall, though, that must count for something.”

“Heh.  Words, only.  I have much to learn am I to shift my way of thinking to a military one.”

“You… you won’t be giving up, will you?  On your research?”

“Of course, not!”

“Good.”

More pictures.

So many faces.

The guards try not to look at us as blatantly as the rest of the crowd, but you can still see their eyes on us.  They just don’t turn.

And there’s Rennie and Greggan and all the guards lining the crowd on that side.  The two medics.  The guards around the mouth of the second gatehouse.  They’ve been bringing the targets and tables in and out of there, which makes sense.  That’s kind of the right direction for some of those bad feelings for sure, but there’s also the one that was moving.

They were basically flanking the range, weren’t they?

“She got some shots toward the curtain wall, right?”

“Yes, I think so—here.”

“Pff.  Mad Miss Morsels.  She’s just about in the right direction for that second warning… though it was moving.”

“It’s not outside the realm of possibility that she herself moved.  There’s a cluster of outhouses that way.”

“…Nah.  I’d have felt something worse near her.  I didn’t.”

“Reasonable.”

“…Nothing’s standing out to me.”

“Nor I, I’m afraid.  Shall we go through them again?”

“Yeah.”  And again, and again, until we run out of time in… “About ten minutes.”

“Let’s make it twenty.  Removing these dresses is easier than putting them on.”

Twenty minutes it is.

Sword… you’d better be ready.

_____

I don’t feel it.

What does that mean?

We’re almost at the range.  The bailey’s still loaded.  Lit as well as it can be with braziers and torches. Some people seem to have left, but it’s still tough to cut through the crowd.  Just as much opportunity for someone to lurk.

Why aren’t they?

Did we luck out?  Maybe whoever it was gave up.  Or maybe we didn’t luck out, and it simply moved somewhere else.

Like… deeper into castle grounds.  Not a comforting thought.

Sword?  Are you working?

SwordareyouthereswordareyouthereswordareyouthereswordareyouthereswordareyouthereswordareyoutherecomeoncomeoncomeonswordareyouthereAREYOUTHEREAREYOUTHERE

!!!!!

…That felt… distinctly like a “shut up.”

I’m insulted, sword.  You were the one warning me.

I guess it’s not just slacking off… if it’s not warning me, it doesn’t feel or sense or hear or something… whatever that something originally was.

I know nothing.  Nothing.

I didn’t feel anything at all near the ballroom, so whatever it is can’t have passed near there.  That room’s sort of central-ish… well, west-central.  I guess I should feel a little better… it might mean nothing went toward the Princess’ chambers.

Then again, I don’t know the sword’s range, and someone could easily circle around if it knew I had noticed it.

Could someone have known?

“You look worried, Link.”

“…Yeah, Turro.”

“Do you feel it?”

“No.”

“…Isn’t that a good thing?”

“I’m not sure.  At least I’m on edge on my own, not forcibly.”  Nice to know I can be watchful without prodding. I don’t have to give the sword credit for everything.

“Not that I’d expect to if you don’t, Link, but I also feel nothing unusual.”

“Good to know.”  There’s Greggan.

“Princess and all.”

“Good evening, Sir Greggan.”

“This’ll be the longest round for you.  Fewer people, more rounds per person.”

“I see.”

“We won’t be having you move at all, and I’m putting you right in front of Rennie.”

Heh.  Smirk.  “…You figure she’ll win?”

“You’re likely to go right up to the end, Your Highness.  There’s some stiff competition here.  Most of the soldiers didn’t enter because so many duty schedules today don’t allow it.  But I’m sure you’ve seen Kertiss.  He’s muscular to say the least.”

I’d beat the bastard.

She might not.  And that would be really Goddess-damned annoying.

“And there’s a few others who’ll give you a run for your money.  One of the blacksmiths entered, and they build their strength every day with their profession.  Farmhands, too.  Clarny from Mabe Village is here, and he’s built like a Goron miner.”

Too bad we didn’t have more time.  We could’ve buffed her up.  Starting at the strength level she has puts her easily in reach of what I can do.

After this, Link… you train your ass off, and you train with her.

“Shall we take our positions?”

“By all means, Your Highness.”

Same deal.  We surround her.  We have to leave a hole so Rennie can see, and some of the crowd.  Half turned that way… half turned toward the Princess’ table.  Look sharp.  Be as intimidating as I can with my not-so-high-height and my still-wonky seam and my scuffed boots.

The boots might help, actually.  Shiny boots mean rich poof.  I am certainly not that.

Be loose.  Ready to move.

Most in the crowd aren’t people we talked to in town.  Those people are running stalls.  I recognize many of the other faces, but I don’t know their names.

I see the man who tipped his hat to the Princess on the way to the Cathedral.  He has a young-ish boy with him.  Maybe 13 years old?  They’re talking.  Excited.  Definitely watching her.

Lots more people filling in.  Just a few minutes to the start- there’s the horn.  Warning everyone to get over here if they want to watch.

Purah-?  Yes.  Slate out.  Taking pictures.

Can she keep all those?  It’s limited.

I’ll ask later.

Mipha?

Looking out.

So hard to tell from the outside how she’s feeling.  But… I can only imagine.

Keep watch now.

Hey, there they are.  Mrs. Rocelle and the kids.  Waving!

Wave back.  “Hey, Princess, do you see-“

“Indeed, yes!  HELLO, CHILDREN!”

“PRINCESS!” “WOO!” “YOU’RE GONNA WIN, RIGHT?” “BEAT ‘EM!” “SQUEEZE THEIR WIMPY HANDS!”

“Hehe, I SHALL DO MY BEST!”

“SIR LINK! WHY DIDN’T YOU ENTER?”

“DUUUUH, BINA, IT’S CUZ HE DOESN’T WANNA BEAT THE PRINCESS!”

“IS THAT WHY, SIR LINK?”

Do you dare say the joke that just popped into your head?  It’s not true.  But it’d be kind of nice to say.  “NOPE!  I DON’T WANT HER TO BEAT ME!”

Wow.  Huge crowd-laugh-surge.

I guess I’m a comedian.

That would’ve been a nice job for me, actually.  I’m ridiculous enough for it.

…Who am I kidding?  I’d be a stablemaster, just like Brinn suggested.  Such a good idea.  I wouldn’t stop monster-hunting, though.  Not fun… but important.

Oh.  Zelda’s laughing, too.

“Link, you’re terrible.”

“Eh, just a little fib.”

“Now, you see, I shall have to try extra hard.  For if anyone defeats me, they would allegedly defeat you, also.”

“…Oops.”

“Perhaps I ought to have tried one of those famous mighty elixers from the apothecary.”

Damn.  I bet she had some rupees on her.  We could’ve bought some.  Oh well.  That would be cheating for this anyway, and we do NOT want the Princess to be a cheater.

Does the apothecary have a stall here?  I don’t think so.  It’s not the kind of thing that lends itself to it.  Too fiddly.  Doesn’t seem like an impulse-buy, either, but maybe I’m wrong.  It never even occurred to me while we were in there.  Guess I was too focused on other things.

“ALRIGHT!  THIRD ROUND, SET ONE!  LISTEN UP!  Help me out here, Rennie—thanks.  FIVE!  NINE! SEVENTEEN! TWENTY-TWO!  THIRTY-ONE!”

Looks like thirty-one’s first for us.

“FORTY-THREE! FORTY-EIGHT! FIFTY-NINE! SIXTY-TWO! SIXTY-EIGHT! EIGHTY!  NINETY-FIVE!  NINETY-NINE! A HUNDRED THREE!  A HUNDRED SIX!  HUNDRED-AND-ELEVEN!  HUNDRED-AND-NINETEEN! A HUNDRED TWENTY-EIGHT!”

Here he comes.  Big guy.

“A HUNDRED THIRTY!”

Not much but big guys left at this point.

“A HUNDRED FORTY-EIGHT!”

Forearms covered in curly hair.

“A HUNDRED FIFTY-FIVE!”

I… am very glad mine aren’t like that.  I have enough image problems.

He seems a little pale.  Either he’s worried about getting beaten by a small woman, or he’s worried HE’LL win and there’ll be consequences.

“Good evening, Sir.”

“G-good evening, Princess.”

“May I ask your name?”

“Oh, I’m just Dunso, Princess.”

“Please, have a seat.  Where are you from, Dunso?”

“Carok Village, Princess.”

“Ah, are you a quarryman, then?”

“Yes, Princess!  It’s good work.  Makes you, er, strong, begging your pardon, Your Highness.”

“My pardon is entirely unnecessary, sir.  I look forward to our challenge.”

“ALRIGHT!  YOU KNOW THE RULES!  SQUARE YOUR SHOULDERS TO START!  YOU NEVER CROSS THE CENTER OF THE TABLE!  ELBOWS ON TABLE AT ALL TIMES!  NO BRACING WITH YOUR OFF-HAND!  FEET START GROUNDED!  YOU DON’T INTENTIONALLY RIP YOUR HAND OUT OF YOUR OPPONENT’S GRIP!  YOU WIN WHEN ANY PART OF YOUR OPPONENT’S HAND PAST THEIR WRIST TOUCHES THE TABLE!  THE SET BEGINS WHEN I SAY GO!  YOU START EARLY, YOU’RE OUT!  SPOTTERS, ATTENTION TO YOUR TABLES!  SET ONE…READY!”

The crowd in one corner of my eye.  Her in the other.  Turro facing outward at my back.

“SET!”

They’re clasped.  She looks calm.

“GO!”

He’s strong.  Both straining, but he’s straining harder and she’s winning.  Slowly eeking his hand toward the tabletop.

Slowly.

Slowly.

Faster.

Down.

“Amazing, Princess!”

“An excellent effort, Dunso.  That was the most difficult yet.”

“I’ll be… thank you, Princess!”

He’s up with a nod.  I think he’s glad to get out of here.  Uncomfortable, maybe?  Impressed, I think.

I already see Rennie writing it in his book.

“That was quick.”

Turro.  “Yep.”

“How difficult was that one really?”

“It was not exactly a challenge, but I did have to exert significant effort.”

“You could’ve beat him faster?”

“Yes.”

Some others are already walking up to Rennie.  Reporting a win or a loss.  Winners stand aside.  Losers join the crowd or just leave.

There’s Kertiss.  Guess he won fast.

That’s… some glare.

Okay.  Eye contact’s not really my thing.  But I’ll be damned if I look away from this jerk first.

Still looking.

Stiiiiiill looking.

“How’s it going, general?”

Should’ve known.  He wasn’t shy about shouting in the yard.  “Fine.”   That came out mercifully unemotional.

“So, you think the Princess would beat you, huh?”

I regret my joke.

“So, if I beat her, I beat you, yeah?”

Say nothing.

“Come on, Link.  Don’t be a coward.”

“HEY!”

Ooh.  That made him jump.  The kids behind him.  Who-

“DON’T YOU DARE CALL MR. LINK A COWARD!”

It’s Jenger.

“YEAH!” “YOU STINK!” “WE’LL-“ “THAT’S-“ “YOU-“

“HEY KIDS!”  …Good.  They stopped.  “I GOT THIS.”  Heh.  Their tiny little fists are all balled up.  It’s cute, but… I don’t know where Kertiss’ dickishness ends.  I don’t want him to have any reason to be nasty to them.  “Kertiss.  Any time I’m off duty.  Come find me.  We’ll fight it out if that’s what you want.”

…Hmm.

Suddenly quiet.

Maybe I’m not the coward.

Greggan’s pointing people toward their next tables.

Kertiss... isn’t coming here.

Yet.

It’s another big guy, though.  Not a surprise.

Two hesitant nods. One for me and one for the Princess.

“Evening, Princess.”

“Ah, Boemer!  Good evening.”

“I, ah- that is-“

“If you are about to suggest discomfort with doing your best to defeat me, which some have, please be assured I wish you to fight your hardest.”

More nodding.  “Okay, Princess.  I… I am one of the strongest smiths in the shop.”

“I believe it—and I appreciate the challenge.”

They’re getting ready.  Hands clasped already.  Should only be-

“ALRIGHT!  SET TWO…READY!  SET!  GO!”

Oooh.  This one’s harder.  She did a sudden lift of her head.  More attentive.  More alert.

And again, his hand is slowly making its way toward the table.  He looks frankly shocked.

“W-wow.”

That she’s not responding says how hard she’s working for this one.

And still working.

Scan the crowd, Link.

And still working.

So slow.

She’ll get tired out.

Wish I could see Kertiss… how long his was taking.

Lower.

And lower.

And lower.

…And…

Down.

Cheers and claps behind Rennie.

“Incredible, Princess!”

“Thank you.  You are indeed remarkably strong.”

“I’m glad I had this chance, Princess.  The boys in the shop’ll never believe it.  They thought I was a shoe-in.”

“I hope they shan’t be too disappointed.”

“Disappointed, no, I don’t think so.  Surprised, yeah!  Ah- good game, Princess.”

“Yes.  Good game!”

Very polite.  Nice to hear.

We… were the last table going that time.  The others are already waiting.

And Kertiss, predictably, is still there.  He’s a fricking bear.

Greggan’s pointing them outward.  Five tables left.

Here’s ours.

“I’m so glad to meet you, Princess!”

Well, he’s chipper.

“And I you, sir?”

“I’m Gleppit.  I work with the Mabe Village Co-op raising cattle.”

“Ah!  I’d heard the co-op had helped the village a good deal.”

“Yes, Princess, we’ve been able to help the folks whose farms and equipment were in worse repair, and now they produce more, and we’re all better off.”

“I hear you’ve been exporting a good deal of milk and butter.”

“We have, it’s been so successful we’ve been turning a lotta cow’s milk into butter, not just goat.  It just lasts so much longer.”

The political butter-landscape.

“ALRIGHT!”

She didn’t even

“O-oh!”

need to know much

“SET THREE!”

to talk to him about it.

“Shall we, Gleppit?”

Just ‘I hear you’ve been

“READY!”

exporting lots of milk

“Yes, Princess!”

and butter.’

“SET!  …GO!”

Wow. Well, this one doesn’t seem as bad, actually.  He must’ve gotten a string of less-burly opponents.  She’s got him handily.

Seems relieved.

…He’s down.  Crowd-cheer, especially from those kids.

“Aw.”

“Oh dear.  I’m sorry, Gleppit.”

“Naw, don’t be sorry, Princess.  Everyone’s been saying how strong you are.  If I was gonna lose, losing to you is the best way to go out.”

“Indeed!  I thank you for that.”

It’s so easy, isn’t it?  To talk to her.  She doesn’t have this aura of I’m-royal-don’t-bug-me.  Neither does the king, really, though that stern/angry/growly voice he has is powerful.

Yet I wouldn’t talk to her for the longest time.

My own fault.  Not hers.  Though I was by no means the only one.

I wonder… it was my father who put that idea in my head.  Did he have something to do with the rest?  Did he discourage people from talking to her?  Zelda said he never showed her any affection.  I can… easily see him just plain old thinking it wasn’t appropriate.  Even if he thought she was a cute kid, he’d keep his feelings to himself.

Would he also have told the rest of the guard to do the same thing?

Yeeaaaaah.  Yeah, he would.

I don’t know.  Maybe I’m just blaming him for stuff because I’m annoyed with him.

This… is awkward.  Five tables.  Five winners.  Not an even number.  I know Greggan couldn’t control how many people entered, so it is what it is.  Still, it means someone sits this round out.

Names… in a basket, huh?

“LISTEN UP!  TWO SETS LEFT!  ONE CONTESTENT SITS THIS ROUND OUT.  WE’VE FIVE NAMES IN HERE!  PRINCESS ZELDA!  CLARNY OF MABE VILLAGE!  BERTOLL OF AQUAME!  KERTISS OF AKKALA HEIGHTS!  AND MIRRABAN OF CASTLE TOWN!”

She’s the only woman… but she has been almost since the start of the tournament.  Shearge entered, but someone must’ve knocked her out in the second round.

…I don’t know if I want him to pull her name or not.  If he does, people might cry foul.  He’s digging around for it.  The paper’s in his hand.  He's grinding his teeth. Guess he doesn't like what it says?

“CLARNY!  YOU’LL SIT THIS ONE OUT!”

Two more papers.

“KERTISS!  YOU’LL FACE PRINCESS ZELDA!”

F#@$.

“BERTROLL AND MIRRABAN, OVER HERE!”

Here he comes.

He’s not smirking.  Doesn’t look cocky, exactly.  Does look deadly serious.  I bet he knows I’m watching his hands and abdomen like a f@#$ing islander hawk.  I don’t think he’s the danger the sword sensed… I think he’s just a dick.  But I’m ready.

“Turro, be on the watch outward, would you?”

“Yeah.”

“Virn…”

“I’m on it, sir.”

He’s… been good about this.  About today. It’s a relief.

“Princess.”

“Kertiss.”

Hehe.  That paused him.  His title’s gone.  Not sure he’d thought about it.

Sinking slowly into his seat.  Both hands flat on the table.  Searching her face for something.  Even the idea of letting him touch her pisses me off, but it’s her choice, not mine.  And she sure doesn’t look like she’ll back down.

No small talk, huh?

“SET FOUR!  READY!”

Hands clasped.  He- okay… he’s not trying to crush her hand.  That’s good.

“SET!”

Guess he doesn’t hate her.

“GO!”

…Wow.

No movement either way.

Two rocks caught between moving earth.

Tendons standing out in both their necks.  Their wrists.  His forehead muscles tensed.  I see something sticking out there.  And both their faces are starting to turn red, though her breathing’s more controlled than his.

“Gmpk.”

That… sound came from her.

Don’t hurt yourself, Zelda.  If he’s going to win, he’s going to win… it’s not worth it.  You still have archery to do, and that you will nail as long as Purah’s not an idiot this time.

No movement.  At all.

Murmurs from the crowd.  A series of ‘wows’ woven together into a tapestry of sound.

“Hoooo.  Hooo.”

Trying to moderate his breathing.

Hers is getting heavier.  Still even, though.  Controlled.

“Damn.”

I… hope she didn’t hear that.  Be quiet, Greggan.

.

.

.

.

“Gg. Gg.”

If it’s hurting you, ease up.  Ease up, Princess.  Ease- THEY SLIPPED!

“HOLD!  Hold.  Let’s have a look.”

Checking their palms.

“Sweat.  FOURNIER!  STRAP!”

Great.

“Apologies, Princess.  Sweat makes you slip, and that could end in broken bones for someone.  We’ll strap your hands.  Is that alright?”

“Yes.”

This bugs me.  A lot.  Her choice, though.  Her choice.

Here he comes.

And they’re belting them together.

“Alright.  ALRIGHT!  ONE MORE START!  READY… SET… GO!”

…Two trembling arms.  No other motion.

.

.

.

.

.

!!

A centimeter.  In his favor.

No, Princess.  No-

She’s straining harder.

Her ankles locked together, feet off the ground.

There he goes.  Doing the same kind of thing.

“Gmph-“ “Bff-“

No.  No, just let him win, don’t just stop but ease up-

Her face has gone BEET RED AND SHE’S PUSHING SO HARD AND SHE MOVED HIM BACKWARD AND SHE’S STILL MOVING HIM AND HOLY S@#$ SHE’S ACTUALLY GOING TO DO IT ISN’T SHE SHE’S-

Ohhh… oh no-

Now he’s puffing cheeks with every breath.  Something’s jumping in his neck.  Pushing back harder, but his hand’s still halfway down, still there, just halted, halted-

“Phooooo- phooooo- phoooooo-“

And another huge effort on her part and she’s pushing pushing pushing PUSHINGPUSHING HE’S GOING DOWN HE’S GOING HE’S HIT!!!!!!!

“Haaah!”  “Goddess… DAMN it.”

He looks PISSED off- don’t you dare-

Okay… he’s not.  He’s not just ripping his hand out of the strap.  He is undoing it, though.  It’s off… and both their hands are red and dented.

“Ffffff.  Princess…”

“Yes?”

“Don’t let it go to your head.”

F@#$ you, you dick.  In fact, “F@#$ you, you dick.”

“Shut up, Link.”

…Oh, we’re staring each other down now, are we?  Wh-

“S@#$- Turro what do you think I am, some f@#$ing traitor?  Don’t worry.  I won’t hurt your precious hero.”

But apparently, he’ll bend over so he can be nose-to-nose with me and Greggan’s now flanking him looking ready to shiv him if he makes one wrong move.

“You know, your dad told us a lot about you before you got here.”

“I figured.”

“You’re a wimpy, whiny, skinny, shrimpy, girly s@#*.”

“Am I?”

“You don’t have what it takes to use that sword on your back.”

“And you think you do?”

“More than you.  I don’t get distracted by the color of my f#$*ing hair band.”

.

“Oh ho ho.  Nothing to say to that, huh?  You’re not a real soldier.  This ridiculous bullshit with you and the Princess is the last straw.”

“Kertiss-“

“NO, Greggan.  I’ll say my piece.  This is a sham.  YOU’RE a sham.  Faking it.  Trying to make it seem like you’re a real man when you’re not.  Sir Lyle isn’t some fool.  You didn’t FOOL him.  You’re fooling the Princess.  I can’t stand watching it-“

“So our PRINCESS is the fool, then?”

“Wh- that’s not-“

“You misogynistic asshole.  Get out of my face.  Now.”

“Or WHAT?”

“Or I put you in the dirt where you belong.”

“It’ll be the other way around you f@#$ing f@$$)%.”

“HHH!” “KERTISS!” “Come ON, man!” “How DARE you!” “”AH-HH!” “What in Hylia’s name does that mean?”  “Oh… my.”  “Eh?” “Shut UP and GET OFF MY FIELD!”

Z-Zelda?

Her hand.  Slipped into mine.  Staring at him.  Waiting for him to meet her eyes.

There… there they go…

And…?  Now she’s ignoring him!  She’s smiling at me instead.

“It wouldn’t matter even if what he says were true.  You know that.  Don’t you, Link?”

…It wouldn’t?

“I’d love you anyway.  Though I would be saddened were you not to feel as I do.  Nor would it lessen your extraordinary speed, strength, and skill, nor the compassion you have for others.  The true issue, I think, is that some still appear to feel free to treat you so.  Or indeed, anyone who does not fit the standard mold.”

Kertiss went real quiet.  He’s not even doing the gross heavy-breathing he was a few seconds ago.

“I shall not address your antagonizer again.  I shall instead say that he must leave willingly, now, and not return to castle grounds.  Elsewise, I shall order Sirs Turro, Virn, and Greggan to remove him immediately and await my father’s judgement.”

“Our king wouldn’t-“

“Now.  Willingly.  Or else.”

.

Like a hundred-pound draw.  Virn… Virn’s hand is on his hilt.  Greggan’s are opened at his sides… ready to grip.  Can’t see Turro but feel him ready to push me aside.

…And he’s off.  Turned on his heel as fast as possible toward the first gatehouse.

Father… you caused this.  You really did.

Not that Kertiss wasn’t already an asshole.  But you dumped a s@#$-ass-ton of fuel on that fire.  Why would he trust someone like that with information about his own son… especially something he thought was sensitive?

He’s just not good with people, is he?  Not at all.  He’s not like the king or the Princess.  He can’t predict them.  Can't read them. He doesn’t know what to do.  It’s why his advice is so bad.

“F@#$.”

Greggan?

“I need a moment after that s@#$storm.  I don’t even remember who won the other Goddess-damned bracket.  We’ll be late starting the archery one.  Eh…”

He’s feverishly scratching the back of his head.

“You’re going to make one hell of a Queen, Princess.”

“Thank you, Sir Greggan.”

“Link, seriously man, are you alright?”

“Yeah, Turro.  Fine.”  Can’t seem to stop darting between each of Zelda’s eyes, actually.

Did she know people thought that about me?  It took me a while to start suspecting.  Then I found out about the bets.  Then Turro said father’d said things.  I just… thought she’d be more surprised than she is.

Maybe it’s because I mentioned the looks I was getting.  From guys.  In the barracks.

“…Holy Goddess, Link, I wouldn’t be.  You have some damn thick skin.  I’d’ve punched him.”

“Pffh- thick skin?  Are you kidding?”

“Not even a little.  I’d’ve lost my cool.”

“I…”

Virn?

“I didn’t realize that was his problem with you, sir.  I thought… I thought-“

“You truly thought Link was eyeing me.”

“… He WAS.”

“Pff- oh-“

“S#$%, Virn-“

“Eh… sorry, Sir, but it’s obvious at this point-“

“So, why aren’t you still furious with me?”

“The king- I- we’d told him, sir.  About the looks.  He said he’d handle it, and I thought he meant to dismiss you from service.”

Oh.  That actually makes some sense.

“He corrected me later.  I- I do regret my words.  I just thought it wasn’t allowed.  Sir.”

“…You know what, Virn?  There are worse things. You’re fine.”

“…Could someone please explain what in the world that commotion was about?”

Oh.  Oh, Link.  Don’t laugh.  Don’t.  You’re distracted enough.

I really am distracted.  Turro’s looking outward.  So is Virn.  Zelda stayed between everyone, but my back was partially turned out.  Not what we agreed.  Return to position, Link.  Keep her hand, though.

“It’s a Hylian… taboo, Seggin.  Sort of.  About who people are attracted to.”

A gentle thumb-swipe.  I’ll return it.

“Hehhhh.  You Hylians.  You make so many rules for yourselves to follow.”

Greggan.

“Alright.  I have Mirraban and Clarny going at it already.  You’ll face the winner.  The unpleasantness here more than justified Mirraban getting the short end of the stick.”

Agreed.

A little squeeze.

“My arm is quite tired.”

Oh no.  “…I’m sorry, Princess.”

“You’ve nothing to be sorry for.”

“I do—my big fat mouth.”

“I do not regret my efforts.  I’m quite pleased to have defeated him.  I… believe I shan’t be fighting this last one quite so hard.  I’d prefer to save my strength to be able to draw my bowstring.”

Turro’s feet just shifted.  He knows he’s the only competition.

“Princess?”

“Yes, Mipha!”

“I could use my gift.  It would restore you.”

“Oh no, Mipha.  That would be a waste.  And no one else has access to such benefit—I’d feel it were cheating.”

“Alright.  I’m here, should you need me.”

Glad she said something.  She’s been… awfully quiet.

“ALRIGHT EVERYONE!  THIS IS IT!  CLARNY OF MABE VILLAGE, PLEASE APPROACH THE PRINCESS’ TABLE!”

Back to her seat.

He is a VERY large man.  Crazy tall, muscular and also very very fleshy.  His weight alone would make him formidable on a field.  Reminds me of…

Oh.  He really DOES remind me of Crinno.  A lot.  Are they related?  This guy looks younger.

“H-hello, Your Highness.”

That is a DEEP voice.  Soft, though.

“Hello, Clarny.  I’m pleased to meet you.”

“I- I’m sorry about that man.  He was awful.”

“It’s not your fault one bit.”

“I should’ve picked him up for you.  He was little.”

Pfff.  Yeah, compared to this guy he was.

“No need.  But thank you for the sentiment.  Please, take a seat.”

He’s hesitant.  Seems like he might actually be a nice person.  If she’s going to lose, at least it won’t be to a dickwad.  He’s making that chair creak like something else!  He’d really need two to sit comfortably across them.

She’s offering her hand.

Woooow.  His engulfs hers.

“Ohh.  Ohh, you’re so tiny.”

“There are those far smaller than I.”

“I don’t want to hurt you, Princess.  You can’t even hold my palm.”

Here comes Fournier.

“You’re going to need this, aren’t you?”

And he’s strapping them.

Clarny already looks like he feels really bad.  He has this giant, wrinkly pout on.  At least, I think it’s a pout.  I don’t think it’s just his face.

“Okay… all set.  ALL SET!”

“FINAL SET!  PRINCESS ZELDA VS. CLARNY OF MABE VILLAGE!  READY… SET… GO!”

“Oh.”

…No motion.

Really?

…They’re not shaking, either.  Not straining.  Either of them.

“You’re holding back, aren’t you, Clarny?”

“I feel bad.”

“Please don’t. You are one of my people.  I welcome and celebrate your accomplishments.”

“R-really?”

“Yes.  Please do no less than your best.”

“Oooh.  I- I won’t hurt you, Princess, but I’ll push harder.”

And he is.  Harder.  And harder.  And harder.  And she’s resisting him but not to the point of straining with taut tendons.  And… he’s winning the most careful arm-wrestle ever.  I think if she even were to twitch, he’d stop.

…That’s it.  She touched the table.

“CLARNY WINS IT!”

ROAR!!  They’re going nuts!!!  I’m not sure exactly what they were rooting or hoping for, but they’re having a good time.

Aw.  Clarny isn’t smiling.

Zelda is.

She’s unwrapping them.  Standing.  Offering him her hand.

“Uh-“

“Please.”

“O-okay…”

Aaand she’s walking him out of the circle- back up Link- “Follow, Turro, Virn-“

Nods, they’ve got it, they’re following, the others are too.  Enough that they can see them both for a moment, but not so much that she’s totally exposed.

Those kids!  Uh oh, is that a good thing or not?

Maybe not.  But it’s not like I can stop them, what would I do?  Yell at them like a total jerk?  Body-block them?

“You did so awesome, Princess!”

“Wow!  You only got beat by the BIGGEST PERSON WHO EVER LIVED!”

“So, Mister Clarny, huh?  You know what a big responsbilility it is that you’re even stronger than Princess Zelda?”

“Responsbilility?”

“Yeah!”

“Uh-“

“Hmm, children.  Perhaps we ought to allow Clarny to enjoy his victory and worry about any responsibilities later.”

Speaking of…

“But he might be able to carry even MORE than thirteen kids!”

They’re up there.  On the rampart.  Still safe.

“Thirteen kids?”

Good.

“Yeah, Sir Link could carry thirteen of us at once!”

I think Chee may have just waved at me.            

“Aw, haw haw.  I think I can fit twenty of you on here.  But I don’t know if you could hold on.”

I wonder if they heard any of Kertiss’ crap.  Probably not.  Could see it, though. 

And still… after all this… nothing from the sword at all.

Aaaand children are climbing on Clarny.  Heh.  Good luck, man.

_____

Read Next: REMAIN STILL, REMAIN CALM. (Warning for violence).

Read this fanfic from the beginning (it makes more sense that way).

Follow this link for the post list for this fic.

[cyancaddy]

Cleon hints in the novels

Before I read the novels by S. D. Perry, I was aware that Aeon was as canon as it gonna get for Capcom. In my opinion, the original RE2 offered nothing that could be interpreted as attraction between Claire and Leon...I still liked them together nonetheless. The obsession I have with Claire and Leon first started when I read the novels. 13 year old me was beyond ecstatic when there were actual hints towards a possible romantic relationship between Claire and Leon (which I thought was a 1000 % canon back then, it was Capcom approved after all). Since I now know the novels can be considered as very well written fanfiction, I came to the realization that Ms Perry probably shipped them too. So without further ado, I tried to collect all the Cleon hints from the novels... which are mostly from "Underworld" and "Code Veronica".

______

Underworld - Chapter One

David's thoughts

Rebecca was unloading clips and repacking the weapons, Leon and Claire sitting close together across from her, not talking. Those two were usually joined at the hip, and were still as tight as they'd been since David, John, and Rebecca had picked them up just outside of Raccoon less than a month earlier, dirty and damaged and reeling from their run-in with Umbrella. David didn't think there was a romantic connection there, at least not yet; it was more likely their shared nightmare. Nearly dying together could be quite a bonding experience. As far as David knew, Leon and Claire were the only survivors of the Raccoon disaster who knew about Umbrella's T-Virus spill.

_______

Underworld - Chapter Two

Leon's thoughts

And what about Leon Kennedy? He'd stumbled into the fight without a clue, a cop fresh out of the academy on his way to his first day at work - which just happened to be with the Raccoon PD. There was Ada, true - but he'd known her less than half a day, and she had been killed just after admitting to him that she was some kind of an agent, sent to steal a sample of an Umbrella virus.

So I lost a job, and a possible relationship with a woman I barely knew and couldn't trust. Of course Umbrella should be stopped... but do I belong here?

He'd decided to become a cop because he wanted to help people, but he'd always figured that meant keeping the peace - busting drunk drivers, breaking up bar fights, catching crooks. Never in his wildest dreams would he have figured on being caught up in an international conspiracy, cloak-and-dagger infiltration-type stuff against a giant company that made war monsters. It was crime on a much bigger scale than he felt he was ready for...... and is that the real reason, Officer Kennedy? At exactly that moment, Claire mumbled something from her light doze, nuzzling her head against his arm before falling silent and still again - and making Leon uncomfortably aware of another facet to his involvement with the ex-S.T.A.R.S. Claire.

Claire was... she was an incredible woman. In the days after their escape from Raccoon City, they'd talked a lot about what had happened, the experiences they'd had both separately and together. At the time, it had felt like an exchange of information, filling in blanks - she'd told him about her run-in with Chief Irons and the creature she'd called Mr. X, and he'd told her all about Ada and the terrible thing that had once been William Birkin. Between them, they'd been able to come up with a continuous story, with information that was important to the fugitive team. In retrospect, though, he could see that those long, rambling conversations had been essential for another reason entirely - they'd been a way to leach out the poison of what had happened to them, like talking out a bad dream. If he'd had to keep it all inside, he thought, he might have gone crazy. In any case, the feelings he had for her now were convoluted ones - warmth, connection, dependence, respect, others that he had no name for. And that scared him, because he'd never felt so strongly about anyone before and because he wasn't sure how much of it was real and how much was just some kind of a post-traumatic stress thing.

Face it, stop bullshitting yourself. What you're really afraid of is that you're only here because she is, and you don't like what that says about you.

Leon nodded inwardly, realizing that it was the truth, the real reason behind his uncertainty. He'd always believed that want was okay, but need? He didn't like the idea of being led around by some neurotic compulsion to be close to Claire Redfield.

And what if it isn't need? Maybe it's want, and you just don't know it yet...

He scowled at his own pathetic attempts at self-analysis, deciding that maybe it would be best just to stop worrying about it so much. Whatever the reason for becoming involved, he was involved - he could kick ass with the best of them and Umbrella deserved to have their ass kicked, big time. For now, he had to pee, and then he was going to eat something and do his best to catch some sleep. Leon gently moved out from beneath Claire's warm, heavy head, doing his best not to wake her up. He slid out into the aisle, glancing around at the others.

______

Underworld - Chapter Five

Claire's and Leon's conversation

"Cold?" Leon asked. Claire turned away from the window, looking at him. He'd finished with the packs, and was holding one out to her. She took it, nodding in response to his question. "Aren't you?" He shook his head, grinning. "Thermal underwear. Could have used these in Raccoon..."Claire smiled. "How could I have used them? I was running around in a pair of shorts, you at least had your uniform. "Which was covered with lizard guts before I was halfway through the sewers," he said, and she was glad to hear him at least try to joke about it.

______

Underworld - Chapter 5

Claire's thougts

Leon put his hand on Claire's shoulder. "You up for this?" he asked softly, and Claire smiled inwardly, thinking of how sweet he was; she'd been thinking of asking him the same thing. In the days since Raccoon, they'd gotten pretty close- and although she wasn't positive, she'd picked up on a few signals that suggested he wouldn't mind getting closer. She still wasn't sure if that was a good idea

and now's not the time to be deciding. The sooner we get this code book, the sooner we get to Europe. To Chris.

"As up as I'm gonna be," she said, and Leon nodded, and they climbed out into the freezing night to join the others.

______

Underworld - Epilogue

With David and John supporting young Rebecca, and Leon and Claire smiling at one another like lovers, the five weary soldiers trudged off the screen and out into the gently blossoming Utah morning.

---------------

Code Veronica- Chapter Four

Leon receives Claire's message from the island and tells Chris and Barry about it

Leon had turned out to be a half decent hacker, he was in the next room on the computer; he'd hardly slept since Claire's capture, most of his time spent trying to track Umbrella's recent movements.

With both their parents dead, he and Claire had developed a close relationship, and he thought he knew her pretty well; she was smart and tough and resourceful, always had been... but she was also a college student, for Christ's sake. Unlike the rest of them, she didn't have any formal combat training. He couldn't help thinking that she'd been lucky so far, and when it came to Umbrella, luck just wasn't enough.

"Chris, get in here!"

Leon, and it sounded urgent. Chris and Barry looked at each other, Chris seeing his own worry mirrored in Barry's face, and they both stood up. His heart in his throat, Chris hurriedly led the way down the hall to where Leon was working, feeling eager and afraid at once. The young cop was standing next to the computer, his expression unreadable. "She's alive," Leon said simply. Chris hadn't even been aware of how bad things had been for him until those two words. It was like his heart had suddenly been released after being gripped hi a vise for ten days, the sense of relief as physical as it was emotional, his skin flushing with it.

Alive, she's alive...Barry clapped him on the shoulder, laughing. "Of course she is, she's a Redfield."

Chris grinned, turned his attention back to Leon and felt his smile slipping at the cop's carefully neutral expression. There was something else. Before he could ask, Leon motioned at the screen, taking a deep breath. "They've got her on an island, Chris... and there's been an accident."

Chris was leaning over the computer in a single stride. He read the brief message twice, the reality of it slow to sink in.

Infection trouble approximately 37S, 12W following attack, perps unknown. No bad guys left, I think, but stuck at the moment. Watch your back, bro, they know the city if not the street. Will try to be home soon.

Chris stood up, silently locking gazes with Leon as Barry read the message. Leon smiled, but it looked forced. "You didn't see her in Raccoon," he said. "She knows how to handle herself, Chris. And she managed to get to a computer, right?" Barry straightened up, took his cue from Leon. "That means she's not locked down," he said seriously. "And if Umbrella's got its hands full with another viral spill, they're not going to be paying attention to anything else. The important thing is that she's alive."

Chris nodded absently, mind already working on what he would need for the trip. The coordinates she'd listed put her in an incredibly isolated spot, deep in the South Atlantic, but he had an old Air Force buddy who owed him, could jet him down to Buenos Aires, maybe Capetown; he could rent a boat from there, survival gear, rope, medkit, an assload of firepower... "I'm going with you," Barry said, accurately reading his expression. They'd been friends a long time. "Me, too," Leon said. Chris shook his head. "No, absolutely not." Both men started to protest, and Chris raised his voice, talking over them.

"You saw what she said, about Umbrella homing in on me, on us," he said firmly. "That means we have to relocate, maybe one of the estates outside the city - some-one has to stay here, wait for Rebecca's team to get back, and someone else needs to scout out a new base of operations. And don't forget, Jill will be here any day now."

Barry frowned, scratched at his beard, his mouth set in a thin, tight line. "I don't like it. Going in alone is a bad idea..." "We're at a crucial phase right now, and you know it," Chris said. "Somebody's got to mind the shop, Barry, and you're the man. You've got the experience, you know all the contacts." "Fine, but at least take the kid," Barry said, gesturing toward Leon. For once, Leon didn't protest the label, only nodded, drawing himself up, shoulders back and head high.

"If you won't do it for yourself, think about Claire,"Barry continued. "What happens to her if you get your - self killed? You need a backup, somebody to pick up the ball if you fumble."Chris shook his head, immovable. "You know better, Barry, this has to be as quiet as possible. Umbrella may have already sent in a cleanup crew. One person, in and out before anyone even realizes I'm there."

Barry was still frowning, but he didn't push it. Neither did Leon, although Chris could see that he was working up to it; the cop and Claire had obviously gotten pretty close.

"I'll bring her back," Chris said, softening his tone, looking at Leon. Leon hesitated, then nodded, high color burning in his cheeks, making Chris wonder exactly how close Leon and his sister had become.

Later. I can worry about his intentions if we make it back alive... when we make it back alive, he quickly amended. If was not an option. "It's settled, then,"

Chris said. "Leon, find me a good map of the area, geographical, political, everything, you never know what might help. Also post back to Claire, just in case she gets another chance to check for mes - sages - tell her I'm on my way. Barry, I want to be pack - ing major influence, but lightweight, something I can hike in without too much trouble, maybe a Glock... you're the expert, you decide."

Both men nodded, turned away to get started, and Chris closed his eyes for just a second, quickly offering up a silent prayer.

Please, please stay safe until I get there, Claire.

It wasn't much - but then, Chris had the feeling he would be praying a lot more in the long hours to come.

______

Code Veronica - Chapter nine

Steve and Claire on the plane to Antarctica, Steve’s thoughts

He looked down at her, at her tousled hair and long lashes, his heart pounding even though he was trying to relax. She moved again, shifting in her sleep, her head tilting back a little and her slightly parted lips were suddenly close enough for him to kiss, all he had to do was tip his face down a few inches, and he wanted to so bad that he actually started to do it, lowering his mouth toward hers... "Mmmm," she murmured, still totally asleep, and he stopped, pulling back, his heart beating even faster. He totally wanted to but not like that, not if she didn't want him to. He thought she did, but she'd also told him a little about her friend Leon, too, and he wasn't so sure that they were just friends. Feeling tortured, having her so close but not his, he was relieved when she rolled away from him a few seconds later.

[fanficsandfluff]

Glad ya found it, I would have been happy to link though. And I have to say your list is perfection! I would just personally add that Barry is a total tickle monster but likes to get as good as he gives, and Jade isn't ticklish, but god help you if you try because revenge will be swift! Anyway, my fandom friends are awesome but I'm too cowardly to own up to my love of tickling, so it's nice to talk to like minded people. This is such a cool community, thanks for the headcanons!

aww you’re so sweet, anon! i’m glad you found the one person in the split/glass fandom that also associates tickling with it lol

in the future, if you ever wanna commission a fic or whatnot, please let me know so I can maybe rewatch the films to get re-invested in the characters.

[valeriemperez]

It's good seeing IW be a hero in other ways. Every week we see her at star labs helping the team when she should be off somewhere checking off things on her bucket list. CP means she's glad to see IW be front and center and a big part of the narrative which she is now. She isn't just an object. Saving her being a major plot is important for young black girls to see. This is rare. Haters gonna hate her no matter what. They can stay mad.

It’s absolutely vital to see her as someone who is cherished, loved and worthy of saving. Agree totally on that. I just want that plus Iris having the chance to investigate. For example, I would have liked to see her uncover that Julian was Alchemy rather than give Barry a line of exposition about her work that led to him figuring it out, does that make sense? But I agree she’s not just an object, of course. The thing is that the show runners do tend to be more interested in Barry or Joe’s love for her than in her own passions. (And this goes for all their writing, it’s not specific to Iris. They stay stagnant and exposition-heavy instead of jumping into the action and moving characters forward that way.)

The pic with Joe and Iris was deleted from insta (I wonder if it was too spoilery). Was it posted elsewhere? I wanted to check it for something.

Here you go! BTW, it shows the finale is directed by David McWhirter (who also directed 3.21 of Flash and 2.11 of Supergirl, among others).

It really bothers me when anons sound like antis. Did we forget how much agency she had in 3x17? I think it makes sense right now not to be focused on her job. She’s set to “die” in a month. I would have personally taken a leave of absence if I knew I was dying in that short of time. Despite having the weight of death on her shoulders, she has dedicated her life to the team and keeping CC safe. That’s huge and shows how much of a hero she is and how selfless she is.

I thought 3.11, 3.12 & 3.17 were all great episodes for Iris. It’s just an overall sensation of things plodding along and no one - Iris included - being allowed to make much progress to solve the mystery. We’re five episodes away from the finale and no one has even tried to figure out how to stop Savitar aside from “try to be faster at the exact second he kills Iris.” A better showrunner would ensure that Iris (and everyone else) would be taking other steps and uncovering other clues along the way.

That being said, I agree that it’s not on Iris’ shoulders alone and she’s far from the problem in the season. And that’s why I pointed out that the journalists don’t think she’s the issue either. They want to see more for her that’s not depressing lmao, but Barry is suffering from a character stagnation that hurts the show - not Iris.

It’s puzzling that the Flash has a big enough cast already and yet, the writers find it so hard to give them a storyline every episode. I don’t expect a masterpiece, but I do expect all of them being utilized to an extent. What I did appreciate was that they gave Cisco meaty material in 2A, that CS had a good start to her journey to KF until they half-assed the rest, and for Iris to have an episode where she got to do some reporting and an arc that lasts for half a season.Sorry, I meant 3A. 2A doesn’t exist.

LMAO @ that correction. Anyway, I agree with everything. They have flashes of brilliance, but their overall arcs and plotting need a lot of work.

I agree on the lack of growth with Barry and the repetitiveness of the storylines. We’ve seen Barry make the same mistakes all the time that they even had to put it in writing (See 3x16). The storylines are a carbon copy of themselves. You can parallel all you want with a bit of variety, but people want to see something fresh and new. If this spoiler about how the team moves forward going into S4, I’d rather the characters separate for 4A and focus on their own arcs. That’d be a start.

If the writers’ strike serves any purpose, let it be to make Flash showrunners better at their craft.