#how cait was freaking out and even crying (i think)

[qu4kerider]

“You've changed.”

ARCANE S02E03 & STAR WARS: EPISODE III - REVENGE OF THE SITH

[archangeldyke-all]

Hi Angelll

OBSESSED WITH COWBOY SEVIKA UNIVERSE. How about Sevika and reader meeting Caitlin’s parents. Sevika and Cassandra defo are side eyeing each other while Tobias and reader are giggling bout their daughters.

Thank you Angel!!!!!!!!

YES LETS GOOOOO

men and minors dni

violet and caitlyn have been going steady for about a year now.

caitlyn visits the inn about once a week, staying a night or two in vi's room before she continues on her trek up the river. sometimes, she takes violet with her.

the two of them are adorable together. they're clearly soulmates, and they're both fucking dorks, and even a year into their relationship, they're still so shy and awkward around each other that they can barely look each other in the eye without blushing.

and now that things between the girls are getting more serious, caitlyn's parents want to meet you all.

violet's never met them. after the jail break, you and sevika forbade the girls from ever returning to cait's town-- worried that they'd be recognized and arrested again. you're all incredibly nervous. well, all of you except jinx.

the kiramman family is insanely fucking wealthy, and they're coming to visit and stay in your dingy little inn. violet's spent the entire week deep cleaning the room they'll be staying in with your help.

sevika's worried that cassandra, caitlyn's mother, will recognize her as the weary woman of the west. apparently, the matriarch of the family is also incredibly invested in local politics and crimes, and she's been consulted by several police forces for investigations into crimes sevika committed.

jinx has been thriving in the anxious energy-- getting away with much more trouble than she's usually able to with the rest of you so preoccupied with worrying.

and now, the night before the family's arrival, you, sevika, and jinx are cuddled in bed as you watch violet pace back and forth in your room.

"come lay down vi, you're making me dizzy." sevika says.

violet continues to pace.

"she's freaking out." jinx says with a giggle. you flick her forehead.

"be nice to your sister." you say. "that'll be you someday."

jinx scoffs. "no way, i'm never falling in love."

sevika chuckles. "no?" she asks, raising her eyebrow. jinx shakes her head no. "so you and that neighbor boy don't have anything going on between the two of you?"

you giggle as you watch jinx blush. "i don't like ekko!" she exclaims. this gets violet to pause her pacing, shooting her sister a glance.

"bullshit, jinx, i saw the two of you riding teddybear yesterday." violet teases. jinx's shoulders shoot up to her ears.

"shut up!" she cries. you chuckle and wrap your arm around her shoulders.

violet grins, abandoning her pacing to squish into bed beside the rest of you. "'oh, ekko, you're a natural!'" violet imitates jinx.

"whatever. at least ekko won't dump me when his dad sees the dump we live in." jinx grumbles.

"hey! it's not a dump!" you cry. sevika snorts.

"it's a bit of a dump, babe." she says. the girls nod up at you. you roll your eyes.

"well i'm sorry if our home isn't perfect-- i've been busy raising the two little shits that tried to rob me--"

"do you really think she'll dump me once her parents meet us?" violet asks, interrupting your rant.

"no." sevika says. "cait's a sneaky shit, and she's obsessed with you. even if they ban her from you and us, she'll be back." she reassures violet. vi sighs.

"i guess."

"go to sleep. we gotta be up early tomorrow to make that fancy dinner you want." you say, turning off the oil lamp beside you. jinx settles in your arms, cuddling against you, and violet cuddles into sevika's.

twenty minutes later, when both girls are snoring, sevika reaches across their bodies to poke you. you smile at her.

"we need a bigger bed." she whispers. you chuckle.

"remember when we thought they'd outgrow their sleepover phase?" you ask. she grunts.

"we were so stupid." she says. you giggle.

"we were young, too." you say. she chuckles.

"we're still young!" she protests. "it's not our fault these shits imprinted on us when we were newlyweds."

"we're not shits, you're a shit, sevika." jinx mumbles, eyes still closed, turning in your arms. you laugh and press a kiss to your head.

"jinx." you say. she hums in your arms. "you're gonna be nice to cait and vi tomorrow, right?" you ask. she remains suspiciously quiet, a little smirk growing on her lips. sevika laughs at the silence.

"c'mon pow-pow, you know you like caitlyn." sevika says. jinx huffs.

"she's... alright."

"she taught you how to shoot!"

"yeah, but she's dating violet. there's gotta be something wrong with her." jinx responds. you snort and ruffle her hair.

"if you're on your best behavior tomorrow, i'll take you to grayson's on friday for shooting practice." sevika bribes. jinx considers this.

"that'll only work if mrs. kiramman doesn't arrest you tomorrow." she mumbles. sevika groans, and you giggle, flicking jinx's forehead again.

"you're such a shit." you say. jinx giggles.

"g'night." she says. you kiss her head again.

"goodnight jinxy."

the kiramman's are... an odd couple.

upon their arrival, violet and caitlyn immediately scooped each other up in a hug. you watched with a smile as caitlyn tried for a kiss, and violet turned her face away, far too nervous with the kiramman's watching to kiss her girlfriend.

caitlyn stiffly and awkwardly introduced you all to her parents, and you take over for her once she's done, guiding the family into the tavern.

you've got a few guests in the inn, but you've closed the bar for the night to keep the family dinner private. you don't want to overwhelm the kiramman's with too much on their first visit, and you're sure your patrons would find plenty of ways to embarrass violet.

tobias is a kind, quiet man, who seems genuinely interested in you and your business. he follows you behind the bar to help you make drinks, and you both watch in amusement as your wives awkwardly talk to one another.

since she's arrived, cassandra's been eyeing sevika suspiciously, a furrow in her brow as she tries to place her. sevika seems to have noticed, and each time she catches mrs. kiramman staring at her, she quickly flees to 'check in on jinx.'

jinx is the only one acting somewhat normal, doodling away at the table while she waits for dinner.

"you have a lovely business." tobias says to you. you smile at him.

"thank you, sir."

"oh please dear, no formalities necessary. with the way cait's been speaking about violet, i'm sure we'll be family in a few years." he says, smiling. you sigh, some of your anxiety melting away as you look up to admire caitlyn and violet where they're nervously whispering to one another at the table.

"you've raised an incredible young woman." you say to him. he smiles. "i'm surprised every day that violet managed to woo her-- she's incredibly poised and intelligent and kind and patient. she's lovely." you say. tobias chuckles.

"well, i'm glad she behaves well for you. at home, it's a bit of a different story-- but i'm sure you know all about that, with two daughters." he says. you laugh.

"they can be a handful, huh?" you ask. he nods.

"i'm just glad she's found somebody like violet. she's been so much happier since they met." he says, a sparkle in his eye. "she's always struggled to make friends. but, each time she comes home from her little trips up here, she's so full of life and excitement. all we ever hear about anymore is violet, and whatever trouble her and powder have gotten themselves into." he says. you grin.

"they're a good match, aren't they?" you ask. he smiles and nods.

"oh-- oh dear. i better go check on my missus. it's never good when she gets that look in her eye." he mumbles, rolling his eyes at you as he grabs a drink and leaves the bar.

you watch in amusement as tobias approaches cassandra, handing her a glass and gently guiding her away from where she was studying sevika with her chin pinched between her fingers.

sevika comes behind the bar to take over for tobias, helping you make drinks.

"how's it going?" you ask. she grunts.

"she's fucking onto me." she whispers. you chuckle.

"thank fuck for statute of limitations." you say. sevika groans. "it's fine, baby. what's she gonna do, accuse her daughter's girlfriend's guardian of being an infamous outlaw over a 'meet the family' dinner?" you ask.

"she could!" she says. you giggle.

"so, you'll deny it. she's got no proof-- you just look a bit like some wanted posters."

"and i've got enough gold buried beneath the garden to last us a hundred fuckin' years." she whispers. you snort.

"i doubt she'll be digging up the garden tonight, babe." you say. sevika groans.

"i'm gonna fuck this up for violet." she says. you smile. there it is.

sevika's never been this nervous to be potentially recognized before-- if anything, she kinda enjoys it when someone positively identifies her. but, when it comes to her girls' happiness, sevika worries endlessly.

you put down the bottle you're pouring from and reach out to grab sevika's hand, pulling her closer and closer toward you until you've got your arms wrapped around her.

"quit worrying." you whisper, kissing her cheek. "you're not gonna fuck anything up. an awkward dinner won't kill 'em, and i don't think there's anything we can do that'll break up those two." you say, nodding over to where caitlyn's whispering in a grinning violet's ear.

you both watch as your daughter laughs, then turns to whisper something back in her girlfriend's ear. caitlyn giggles, hiding her smile behind her hand, and violet quickly presses a kiss to her cheek. cait blushes.

sevika sighs, relaxing a bit in your grip. "i guess you're right." she says. you smile and kiss her lips.

"the only one we gotta worry about tonight is jinx." you say. sevika groans.

"fuck, i forgot about jinx." she says. you laugh.

"you forgot about me?" jinx asks, popping up on the other side of the bar. you both jump.

"fuck! we gotta put a bell on you or something, kid." sevika says. jinx chuckles.

"mr. kiramman challenged me to checkers after dinner-- i told him he better get ready to get his ass whooped." she says. you snort.

"what'd he say to that?" you ask. she shrugs.

"he laughed. i think he likes us." she says. you smile.

"he'd be stupid not to." you say. jinx smiles.

"mrs. kiramman is still on the fence though. i tried charming her with a game of hangman-- she said she's never heard of it." jinx says, rolling her eyes. you snort.

"she'll come around." you say.

"she better." sevika grunts.

dinner goes pretty smoothly. with a few drinks in her, cassandra lightens up significantly, and seemingly forgets all the apprehensions she had about sevika. the two of them spend the night swapping embarrassing stories about vi and cait, much to jinx's delight and their horror.

tobias shows jinx a few magic tricks, which she loves, and caitlyn cringes the entire time, burying her face in her hands.

the girls get more comfortable as the night goes on and the adults loosen up, and by the time dinner's over, violet's slung her arm around caitlyn's shoulders.

cassandra compliments your cooking, and when you tell her most of the ingredients came from your garden, she grins.

"well, that's just darling!" she says. "oh, i wish we had a garden on our property." she sighs.

"you say that dear, but you know you would kill anything you try to grow." tobias teases. cassandra huffs and elbows him.

"he gifted me a bonsai tree for our ten year anniversary and i killed it in a month. i'll never hear the end of it." she mumbles. you laugh.

"you're not alone mrs. k. they all call me jinx because i kill every plant i touch." jinx mumbles into her food. you snort.

"oh please, like you didn't beg us to start calling you jinx more." sevika says.

"well yeah! it's a great cowboy name!" she says.

"you want to be a cowboy, dear?" cassandra asks. jinx nods.

"yeah, just like sev." she says, smiling. beside you, sevika freezes. across the table, violet and caitlyn both cringe. you stomp on jinx's toes under the table. "ouch!" she whispers.

mrs. kiramman looks over at your wife, a suspicious look in her eye.

"you used to be a cowboy?" she asks. you grab your wife's hand under the table.

"uh..." she says.

"a rancher!" you fill in. "a few miles up outside of town." you say. cassandra hums, still eyeing sevika.

"you know, i used to help police forces investigate the outlaws that wander this desert." she says. you gulp.

"mom, nobody wants to hear about your boring side projects." caitlyn says nervously.

"and there was always one wanderer i could never forget." she continues, ignoring her daughter.

tobias' eyes are darting between sevika and his wife. he seems to catch on to the predicament pretty quickly, looking at you with a raised eyebrow. you bite your lip.

"who wants to see another magic trick?" he asks, trying to change the subject again.

"the weary woman of the west." cassandra says, ignoring her husband. sevika's grip on your hand goes shaky.

"w-well... that's interesting." you say.

"yes, very." cassandra says, looking over at you. "i always felt a certian... kinship towards her." she says. you blink, trying to process her words.

"wha?" sevika asks.

cassandra shrugs. "as one of the only women in the oil industry, i understand how much harder one has to work in a male dominated industry. the weary woman never let any of the expectations of womanhood stop her-- and she never let the expectations of her career define her either." she says. "never killed an innocent, never robbed anything that was locally run. never got caught either."

it's so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

cassandra's lips tick up at the side, and she picks up her glass, nodding at sevika.

"when she disappeared, most assumed she was killed. i always secretly hoped she took her earnings and made a life for herself." she says. sevika gulps. "i'm glad to see i was right." cassandra whispers.

you grin, and across the table, caitlyn sinks in to her chair, sighing in relief. tobias laughs, violet blinks in shock, and sevika's jaw drops. jinx bursts into laughter.

"oh, fuck yes! i like her!" jinx says. "cait, why didn't you tell me your mom was such a badass?" she asks.

the rest of you start to laugh with her, too.

after dinner, you show tobias and cassandra to their rooms. they're both 'charmed' by it, which you're pretty sure is rich person talk for not completely disgusted, so you take it.

violet finds you in the hallway after you tuck jinx in.

"hey kid." you say. she sighs, her shoulders slumping, and she melts into your arms. you giggle and wrap her up into a hug.

"oh my god, for a second there i thought there was gonna be a shootout over dinner." violet mumbles into your shoulder. you laugh.

"i did too." you say. "they're way cooler than i thought they'd be. who knew rich people could be so interesting?" you ask. violet giggles.

"i knew. cait's the coolest, richest person i know." she says. you smile and press a kiss to her head.

"you know, now that you've met the family, the next step's gonna be marriage." you say. violet scoffs.

"oh please, sevika would kill me if i tried to get married before i turned, like, twenty five." she says. you laugh.

"i'd kill you too." you say. violet laughs. "i'm just saying. me and sev know a pastor who can make it happen when the two of you are ready." violet hums.

"you really think she's gonna stick around for that long?" she asks. you smile.

"i do, kiddo. you guys are basically soulmates. your families like each other. caitlyn's constantly detouring on her treks to visit you and..." you trail off, tears welling up in your eyes as you pull away to hold violet's face in both of your hands. "and she has every fucking reason to, baby." you say. violet blinks up at you, tears welling in her own eyes as she listens. "you're incredible. you're hilarious, and kind, and you're such a good fucking sister it kills me a bit. you charm the pants off of everyone you meet, you've got a knack for getting yourself into and out of trouble, and you're like, the coolest kid i ever met. or second coolest, sorry. jinx's got you beat in that contest." you say.

violet smiles shakily up at you, then leans forward to bury her face against your shoulder again, wrapping her arms around you. you kiss her head.

"i love you." she mumbles. you smile.

"love you too, kid." you say.

"i'm so glad i tried to rob you." she says. you laugh.

"i am too." you say.

you hold her until she catches her breath, then you wipe up her snot and tears and press a kiss to her forehead, ruffling her hair.

"now, go be with your girl. i'm sure she's just as stressed out as you are after tonight." you say. vi laughs.

"i'm surprised she didn't have a heart attack." she says. you chuckle.

you find sevika in the stables, feeding teddybear and the kiramman's horses. you wrap your arms around her waist, resting your head against her solid back, sighing as you hold her. she hums, then turns around in your grip.

"that wasn't too bad." you say. sevika snorts, leaning down to kiss you.

"are you kidding? were we at the same dinner?" she asks. you laugh.

"okay, it was rocky for a bit there, but it's all good now." you say. sevika snorts. "i'd even go as far as saying that i think they like us."

"oh definitely. i think mrs. k's got a bit of a crush on the weary woman." she teases. you laugh.

"she fuckin' better not." you say, glaring at your wife. she grins.

"jealous?" she asks. you roll your eyes.

"no. i'm just worried about tobias. it would break his sweet heart if he found out his wife was leavin' him for an outlaw." you say. sevika bursts into laughter.

"well, i got good news for him, because that outlaw's off the market." she says. you smile.

"yeah?"

"yeah. happily married, two kids, picket fence and all." she says. you snort.

"damn, what happened to her?" you ask. "she turned into a fuckin' softy. used to be so badass..." you tease.

"she fell in love." sevika says. you melt in her arms, leaning forward to press your ear to her chest, listening to her heartbeat. "with the most darling, wittiest, hottest bartender this side of the mississippi." she says. you snort.

"good for her." you say. sevika hums.

"yeah. it is." she says.

you look up at her, and she's smiling down at you, a sparkle in her eye. she gently reaches up, cupping your jaw in her hand, before swooping in to press her lips against yours.

"i love you baby." you mumble against her.

"and i love you darlin'." she replies.

"c'mon. let's get to bed." you say, dragging sevika back toward the inn. she stumbles after you, giggling as she goes.

when you're at the top of the stairs, sevika pins you to your bedroom door, leaning in to kiss you, swiping her tongue against yours. you hum against her lips and she smiles.

"think we can get a quick romp in before one of the kids needs us?" she asks. you smile, reaching behind you to open the door to your room.

"only one way to find out." you reply.

you both rush into your room, only to pause when you look at the bed.

sprawled out in the center lays jinx, an open book on her chest, her eyes closed as she drools onto your pillow. sevika chuckles.

"she's such a fuckin' shit." she laughs admiringly. you giggle.

"she really is." you say.

"'m not a shit." jinx mumbles, cracking her eye open to glare at the two of you. you burst into laughter and launch yourself onto the bed, crushing jinx as you land. she squeals.

sevika crawls in beside the two of you, wrapping you up in her arms, peppering kisses to you and jinx's heads.

"you're the biggest shit to ever shit, kid." sevika teases. jinx giggles, then yawns.

"everyone else had someone to cuddle tonight, it's no fair." she says as she settles back to sleep between you and sevika. you grin, wrapping your arms around her. where your hand lays on her stomach, sevika snakes her fingers between yours, squeezing your hand and winking at you. you smile at her.

"love you guys." jinx mumbles as she drifts off to sleep.

"we love you too, jinxy-poo." sevika replies. jinx snorts at the nickname, and thirty seconds later, she and sevika are both snoring.

you're able to drift off to sleep pretty quickly after that.

taglist!

@fyeahnix @sapphicsgirl @half-of-a-gay @ellabslut @thesevi0lentdelights @sexysapphicshopowner @shimtarofstupidity @love-sugarr @chuucanchuucan @222danielaa @badbye666 @femme-historian @lia-winther @gr0ssz0mbi3 @ellsss @sevikaspillowprincess @leomatsuzaki

[obsessive-evie]

jealous cait hcs

my girls crazy so how could i say no

-will leave hickeys on you without any shame like does not give a fuck who sees them

-would get lowkey crushed if she ever thought you were cheating on her, even if it was a simple misunderstanding. not even if she suspected you were cheating but if you were in a fight she’d just be so off and sad and mopey and anxious, if she sees you with ANYONE that could possibly be interested in you during that, TEARS. she’d be so upset, hiding in her room in the dark, holding your hoodies, until you come in and kiss her cheeks and talk it out. she’d literally squeeze you in her arms so so so tight after, no escaping, no wiggle room

-if in a bar/club/party you are not getting out of her sight let alone her arms. her hands glued to your hips specifically, if she’s taller than you she’d have her head on top of yours in some way, if you’re closer in height she’d be buried in your neck and kiss your shoulders and shoulder blades

-won’t get mad at ppl hitting on you directly, she’ll just stare them down with her hands on you until they go away

-if a MAN is hitting on you she wouldn’t hold back with the pda, kissing your neck, grabbing your thighs and hips, full on making out with you she’s a freak idc what you say

-would be super quiet the whole ride home, not bc she’s mad at you but bc she doesn’t wanna take her crazy out on you

-would say NASTY things while fucking you; “you look so fucking pretty beneath me, right where you belong”, “that’s my girl, just like that”, would fuck you harder and ask you questions just to hear you stutter “what was that baby? say that one more time for me”, i feel like she usually isn’t one for mean names but she’d call you a pretty slut. “you take me so deep don’t you, only i can fuck you like this isn’t that right pretty baby?”

-she’d feel bad after sex if she was rougher/ more possessive than usual, would give the BEST aftercare and hold you and kiss you and apologize profusely

-^^ i don’t think she’s exactly proud of her jealousy and temper, she’d feel bad for letting it get the best of her. like i feel like she’d kinda beat herself up over it (almost cry!!)

-apology head that’s super soft and gentle, just giving you pleasure and making sure you know she’s sorry

-BUT would also run you baths, make you food, wash/braid your hair, massage your muscles, kiss your cheeks so softly a million times, give you her clothes etc.

[satans-left-asscheeky]

Companions react to Sole using a lash curler and riping out all of their eye lashes

unfortunately I had the misfortune of this happening to me in middle school... Thankfully most of them grew back but I'm still short a few lashes from the experience.

Maccready

"WHAT THE HELL! Why would anyone do that!? OH MY GOD YOU RIPPED ALL OF THEM OUT!?! HOLY SHI- CRAP!"

He'd run around panicking not at all helping the situation at hand. Call it psychosomatic but Mac will swear he could feel the pain as he watched them rip out their own lashes.

Hancock

"Uh Sunshine?..... Im guessing you didn't do that on purpose.... right?"

He knew pre-war they did some weird shit to themselves I'm the name of beauty, but ripping out your own eyelashes? Hell no. Once he realized they definitely did not do it on purpose he'd help them mourn the loss of their lovely lashes.... it maybe different circumstances, but he rembers waking up with a lot less hair.... he however just didn't brutally rip all of his out.

Cait

"HOLY SHITE! Ive seen some gorey shite in my day, but that was like watching a horror movie. Ya alright lad/lassie"

She's not particularly nurturing, but she would make sure he friend was okay. She's not gonna offer her shoulder to cry on, especially since it was their own stupidity that got them in this situation, but she's glad their not hurt.

Danse

"KNIGHT! I-"

He'd stand their like an idiot, words completely failing him until they told him what they needed. Be it Knight Captian Cades assistance or moral support....

Curie

"Oh Monsieur/Madam please hold still..."

She'd look them over noting how red and puffy their eye was and how much it was running.... she'd insist they wear an eyepatch to keep dirt or debris from getting in it an injuring it further.

Deacon

"Wow your eye is really red! Sorry.... I- uh... I know! We'll just have to get matching shades! I think I have a backup somewhere around here.... I'll be right back."

Like promised he'd return to them shades in hand... If nothing else it should keep dirt and stuff outta their eye while their lashes grow back

Piper

"OH MY GOD!!! Uh.... um we can fix it right? Um... I mean it's not that bad... just no eyelashes left... oh god"

She was panicking because what the hell. How were they gonna fix this? Hopefully they'll go back because oh my God.

Nick

"Not sure what you expected when you took a medieval torture device up to your eyeball... oh Jesus kid you alright? that looked like it hurt kid...here lemme see it."

He thought they were just pulling a prank on him at first hence his sass, but once he realized they had indeed hurt themselves he'd rush to their aid, even though there was very little he could do for them beyond emotional support in this situation

Preston

"Just hang on.... I'm going to get the medic"

He'd freak out and rush to whatever settlements they were ats doctor. He didn't care if they really couldn't treat the injury he'd fell better knowing they were going to be alright

X6-88

"I really hope you didn't do that on purpose"

He'd be worried for their sanity until they told him they definitely didn't mean to do that... then he was just worried for their intellect

[fallout-drabbles-n-stuff]

How would the companions react to synth Shaun accidentally calling them dad/mom? I never know what to say, but your posts make my day thanks for being awesome! 💕✌

(Thank you ❤️)

Cait:

"Aye..Oh shite.."

•She wasn't stupid, she knew this day would come.

•She just didn't think Shaun would say it so nonchalantly, as though she was always his "mom".

•She can't help but stare, her mouth going dry and ground beginning to sway beneath her feet.

•She just hopes he doesn't notice.

Curie:

"Que viens-tu de dire..*clears throat*."

•It caught her completely off gaurd.

•He slipped up and said while she was teaching him a little bit of French, so yeah, totally off gaurd.

•Either way, she got over her shock and wrapped an arm around his little shoulders.

•She could definitely get used to having him call her that.

Danse:

"Hello shaun, um, you..do you feel up to joining me for some shooting practice? It's never too early to train, plus I think it would be best that we put your laser rifle modification to the test."

•Ya'll know the "O.O" face that Danse makes? Well he makes it then.

•Tries his level best to keep his composure but just ends up rambling.

•So very proud, but also terrified because now he feels like the official responsibility of the title is his- despite already carrying out his fatherly duties way beforehand.

Deacon:

"Yes?"

•It was a very good thing that he was so well versed in putting up facades,

•Deacon's whole world livened with that accidental word but he knew that dropping to his knees and sobbing like a baby wasn't going to blow over well with the kid that was just trying to ask him if he's seen a hot plate nearby.

•Still, there's no denying that Deacon finally felt a sense of completion in his life...now he just couldn't wait to tell sole.

Gage:

"..*chokes on nuka-cola* W-what's going on, kid?"

•When I say he nearly has a heart attack...

•Adjusting to the whole "your boss that is also your lover has a kid" thing was something for him to conquer, having Shaun just outright call him dad was a shock and a half.

•Regardless of how stunning it was, he won't deny that it made his rotten little heart skip a beat.

•He'd probably have to hear the boy say it a couple more times for it not to be so jarring, but hey, a family is just what Gage wants..even if he doesn't consciously realize it.

Hancock:

"...."

•For the first time in a very long while, Hancock is rendered completely speechless.

•Thankfully Shaun let that slip on his way out the door, otherwise the situation would've been hundreds times more awkward.

•Hancock would be so overcome with emotions, he may just end up crying tears of joy into sole's chest.

Macready:

"Wha- Dad? Yeah, that's me.."

•He internally kicks himself for not handling this better. Duncan calls him that- so why did it feel so different from Shaun? Well, probably because he didn't expect it out of him...

•Nonetheless, he'll make as good of an effort as he can to be more smooth in the future. The last thing he wants to do is discourage the kid.

Maxson:

"Good morning, Shaun. Ready to- wait..what?"

•At first he has no idea what happened- already picking up Shaun's squire hat off his desk and placing it on the boy's head.

•When he finally registers what Shaun said, it's like he got splashed with cold water.

•He just kind of blinks..

•Despite not knowing how to respond, he puts the boy's hat on his head and gives him an almost scary grin (it's because he's freaking out.)

Nick:

"Kiddo, make sure to grab your lunch from Ellie on your way out. Also...don't let Nat talk you into getting in trouble."

•He's pretty chill with it, just quirking a smile that he hides behind a newspaper.

•He didn't want to make a huge deal out of it, but it was definitely a step in the right direction and he couldn't have been happier.

•He's so totally telling sole  about this whenever they get back.

Piper:

"H-heh, what's up shaun?"

•She is majorly taken aback.

•Yeah- she's sort of been like a mom to Nat for years but..that was different. Nat never once called her mom.

•She tries to hide her shock as best as she can but fails miserably, luckily Shaun kind of laughs about it and dismisses himself.

•She hopes that he doesn't stop nonetheless, it's just gonna take some getting used to.

Preston:

"Hey bud, ready to go wash Dogmeat?"

•Preston doesn't skip a beat with it. He's been hoping that this would happen eventually, but he'd never be pushy.

•Even though he is chill, he's doing a little happy dance the second shaun goes to round up Dogmeat. He doesn't care who sees either, he's just happy that shaun sees him that way- even if it was just an accidental slip.

X6-88:

"....Shaun, I..I don't know what to say.."

•Considering they have history together, and mind you- X6 is close to him, there's a certain level of specialness to him saying this to X. However there is also some problems...

•On the outside, he'll just tense up and ignore it but in the inside he is having an internal breakdown. He loves shaun, but to be considered his dad- even if he's romantically involved with his parent- makes him feel strange.

[that-blue-vault-dweller]

Companions react to sole getting that big ass projector at red rocket working and finding some movies? Get out the popcorn!

Ooh, I really like this!!! However, I couldn’t remember if there was a projector at Red Rocket, and I wondered if you meant Starlight Drive In because I’m not sure if there was a big, clear wall to display the film on at Red Rocket. I assumed Starlight Drive In, but if you want me to go back and fix it to Red Rocket, I definitely can. Just shoot a message in my ask box or comment. 😊

Thank you for the request, and I hope you enjoy!!! 💙💛

Cait - Is surprised at the fact that she actually has it going. When she hears the news, she jokingly asks if F!Sole can put on a horror movie. F!Sole easily arranges Cait's request, and Cait is absolutely shocked at how realistic everything on the screen looks. Of course, she's only once seen an actual movie and it was about a talking dog. In fact, though she would rather die than admit it, she is somewhat terrified by the end of the film and she is jumping at every shadow.

Piper - Is absolutely thrilled and is immediately asking F!Sole to pull out some movies to watch on the big screen. F!Sole gladly complies, and the both of them watch one of the movies that came out just before the bombs. Piper is absolutely enthralled the entire time, and she hardly speaks as she just watches. She has never had the privilege to see actual TV or a movie, so it is the most amazing thing she has ever witnessed and actually leaves her speechless. When it is finally over, she suggests that they do this again on another night so they could show Nat.

Curie - Is practically bouncing when F!Sole first tells her and she asks if they can watch a movie immediately. Unfortunately, she has to wait until sundown, and by then, she has picked out multiple movies to watch, all of them piled in her arms. Every single one of them are feel-good movies intended to make the viewer cry, and Curie is indeed blubbering by the time they finish binge-watching. She makes sure to clap and hoot for the actors and actresses as if they could actually hear her.

MacCready - Is honestly shocked, but is a little skeptical about whether it will actually play any film. F!Sole asks him to go find a movie he would like to watch, and he brings her a movie about the Silver Shroud. To his excitement and pure joy, the movie actually plays and he is just staring at it with his mouth hanging open like a child watching its favorite show. He is positively bumfuzzled by it, and he is totally in love.

Deacon - Asks her if she is absolutely sure that she has the projector working correctly. When she says that she is one hundred percent certain, he asks her if he can ask some of the other Railroad folks to come and watch with them. She agrees, and that very night, there are several Railroad members there undercover. Even Desdemona came to watch. By the time it is all over, everyone is very impressed. Deacon wastes no time in bragging and telling everyone that if they wouldn't have taken his word for it when she wanted to join, then they'd never get to enjoy all this.

Codsworth - Is ecstatic with the fact that F!Sole has managed to bring a major piece of Pre-War culture back to life. He is there with her every step of the way, feeling such overwhelming emotion when he sees the movie start on the big screen. He places a pincer on her shoulder, squeezing gently as he quietly tells her how proud sir would be of where they are now.

Hancock - Is very pleased and quite interested in the entire idea. He even asks if she thinks she could get another one going in Goodneighbor. He thinks it would be valuable tourist attraction and that it could boost morale for his citizens. However, in the meantime, they just spend some time together as they watch a movie about revolutions and dystopian societies. He is utterly in love and has officially declared himself a huge fan of the young heroine starring in the movie that gave everything for the love of a sibling.

Danse - Is utterly fascinated, and is quickly asking to watch a movie. When she asks for a particular genre, he very sheepishly and quietly asks if they can watch a Western. She, of course, complies and they are soon enjoying stories of the Wild West, a world completely lost now that the bombs have fell and the years have passed. He is excited as can be throughout the entire movie, barely containing himself as he jumps a bit when gunfights erupt and horses run toward the viewer.

Preston - Believes her wholeheartedly when she says she has the projector going. As a direct result, he invites as many minutemen that are willing to come so they can see the wonderful work their general has done. When F!Sole puts on a movie, everyone is amazed, but none moreso than Preston. He is in absolute awe of the movie, but particularly, he is admiring his general for being so incredibly talented.

Valentine - So many memories are immediately washing upon him about drive-ins and all manners of things. He asks her if there are any mystery movies stored around the place, and she gladly pulls out the first one she finds. They both sit there together, only partially listening to the movie as they mostly spend time discussing old stories of their past drive-in visits before the bombs.

X6-88 - Is very impressed, but expresses his wish that the screen should be used as a manner in which to offer informative briefings and whatnot. F!Sole asks him to sit and give a movie a chance and he begrudgingly complies. However, when he actually does sit down and watch it, he is pleasantly surprised and he finds himself deeply invested in it. However, he would sooner die than admit to it.

Dogmeat - Does not totally get it, but he is very glad that she is so excited. He stays by her as she fishes through a box and pulls out something oddly-shaped. Soon enough, there is a movie playing on the giant screen and he is just staring. He barks at different scenes when it looks like it's coming toward him and F!Sole. He evens runs directly up to the screen, sniffing at it. It looks so real, and he wonders why he can't smell the people in the scene and just smells a dirty old screen.

Strong - Does not really understand, so she just puts on a movie for the both of them. As soon as it comes on the screen, he is shouting and freaking out because somehow these humans have grown even bigger than a super-mutant and its honestly scaring him a little. However, he starts running toward the screen, aiming to do his best to smash. Therefore, she has to hurry to him and make him stop. Needless to say, she doesn't watch any more movies with Strong.

Maxson - When he finds out, he is considerably impressed. He questions if she is comfortable with sharing the find with the rest of the Brotherhood. When she agrees, he asks several Brotherhood operatives to come with him to watch a movie there. When it is over, they all applaud her greatly, and he tells her that she has done an excellent job. He also asks if she could possibly get another one going for solely for Brotherhood use.

Sturges - Spends a moment to discuss with her about the technical aspect of how she managed to get it going. As soon as that is out of the way, he asks her if they can put on a movie and watch it. She gets everything set up, and they both enjoy a good movie. It is unlike anything that Sturges has ever seen, and he enjoys it greatly, being sure to tell her what an amazing job she did with getting it going again.

Glory - Remembers seeing some movies played in the Institute, but she has never actually had the ability to stop and watch one. When F!Sole tells her that she has got the projector going, Glory raises an eyebrow  and asks her if she is aiming on watching something. F!Sole affirms this, and she asks her to watch something with her. Glory agrees, pretending to be not so enthusiastic, but she is very much closely watching the film when it comes on. When they are sitting there together, Glory very quietly offhandedly states that she was punished if she was spotted looking over the human's shoulders at the TVs at the Institute. She is very thankful to finally have a good experience to associate with a television.

[commonwealthoccurences]

Companions React: Finding An Abandoned Child

Request: Hi, I really love your writing! Could you maybe do companions react to finding a crying child hiding in like a car or an abandoned building?

TW: Child abandonment, trauma, PTSD in some characters, themes of child neglect and abuse

The Scenario: Sole and their companion are travelling through the wasteland, looking to collect scrap for the latest project. They were on high alert, of course, considering it was the wasteland, guns drawn by their hips as they crept forward into another abandoned building. It seemed to be relatively untouched, which was promising. That is, until the companion rounded a corner to head into one of the nearby doorways, and was met with the sight of a small child silently weeping in the corner. Alone.

Cait:

The image of that child alone, covered in grime, their face coated in tears, is forever seared into her mind from that moment on

She wasn’t allowed to cry much as a child, it was considered whining, but if there was one scene that could represent how she felt her entire childhood, it was that

She was rushing forward before she could even think about it, almost failing to consider how frightening that may be to the child

Luckily, she remembered shortly after her impulsive actions, and slowed down, kneeling a few feet away

“Do you need help?”

As soon as she can coax the child into trusting her and letting her pick them up to get them out of there safely, she struggles to let go

Even when Sole’s trying to check the child for injuries, she has to fight herself internally to let go of them

After a long talk with Sole, that child becomes priority in her life; sometimes the people who’ll mean the most to you find you in confusing ways

Curie:

She doesn’t think much about the possibility of accidentally frightening the child

She’s already in front of them and checking them over to make sure they don’t have any life threatening wounds

If she accidentally scares the crap out of the kid, she realizes her mistake and backtracks

Kind of forgets that Sole exists at that point until it’s time to carefully pick the child up and get them out of the building; they’re the designated body guard

Once they’re back at Sanctuary she confers with Sole on how to make the child most comfortable

They discuss whether or not it would be better for the kid to stay with them, or in Sanctuary in general, or to look for suitable adopters; their decision relies on where Curie’s at in figuring out herself and where Sole’s at in the main story (if Sole is canon-compliant)

Danse:

There’s supposed to be a protocol for similar situations according to the Brotherhood

He has a moment of weakness, seeing a child so helpless like that

He gets hit with anger, surprisingly; he tries his best to remain detached, and he’d like to think he’s pretty damn good at it, but the idea that someone could abandon their child like that?

He suppresses it long enough to have Sole carefully approach and check the kid over (he knows his armor isn’t exactly the most relaxing sight)

He’s somewhat silent on the way back to the Prydwen

Handing them over to the medical staff is difficult for him and he needs to take a moment, but at the same time struggles to leave the child

He asks Sole to stay with them so they have a somewhat familiar face and steps outside for a moment

Pulls some strings to get them adopted onto the Prydwen: he tries to keep a semi-detached relationship moving forward but definitely has some bias towards the child as they grow up in the Brotherhood and checks in on them

Deacon:

Unfortunately, it’s not the first time this has happened; he’s travelled for most of his life, and hiding out in abandoned locations was part of that

Child abandonment is more common than other people would like to believe, so he’s gotten used to sorting things out, and honestly, it’s not all that different from his work in the Railroad

Regardless, he’s had practice

He approaches slowly and quietly, but talks so that the kid is aware of where he is

He walks them through what he’s doing as he checks for any obvious injuries, asks a few questions if they’re verbal and not completely dissociated, and wipes their tears

Asks Sole for any sort of blanket or spare shirt they may have and wraps the child in it for comfort before asking to pick them up

Any conversation about the kid is done out of earshot- it’s not exactly comforting to hear strangers discuss how messed up you and your situation is

Instead he has Sole stay alert as he mindlessly tells lighthearted stories for the child to listen to if they can hear

Once they get back to Railroad HQ he stays nearby, tells jokes, can provide signing if they’re deaf, makes sure they give consent to every part of being treated, gets them some food, etc

Needs a moment once he’s told that they’ve found somewhere for the kid to go

One of the rare times he gives Sole a hug without prompting

Gage:

Has no clue what to do or what’s going on

Makes Sole approach the kid; “What if it’s a tiny feral ghoul?” “Gage, you’re an idiot”

Keeps his distance for the most part unless Sole asks him for help

He will pass the child some food or water, silently, in order to try and bond or something

Very much uninvolved in the process as long as Sole has things covered, but he does get extremely vocal in the fact that the child needs to go to a good home

Haylen:

Uncertain in how to approach, but once Sole tells her what they plan to do, she’s willing to help

Asks a few questions about why they’re there and what happened to them, but if she’s not getting answers, she knows to back off and focus on what might be going on physically

Once they’re both sure the child has no injuries and can be moved, Haylen uses cloth they collected to fashion a sort of back-carrier; the most practical thing is for both of Sole’s arms to be free for protection

Has a long chat with Sole about what to do once they get back to the Prydwen and briefs the medical staff, but after that, she lets Sole take over

She knows that spending more time with the child means she’ll get attached and that’s the worst thing she could do to either of them

Will ask about what type of home/community the child went to after they’re gone and feel reassured once Sole explains

Sometimes she randomly thinks of them and reserves a moment to send them her best wishes, but other than that, tries not to care

Hancock:

His heart absolutely shatters, but he knows that approaching may make things worse; after all, they’ve probably run into feral ghouls depending on how long they’ve been on their own, and his appearance won’t help their distress

Instead, he sends Sole forward to check up on them and build some repertoire

Sole has to have a small chat with them about how they know that there’s bad ghouls, but there’s also very nice ghouls, and that Hancock is the nicest ghoul they’ll meet

If the kid freaks out once they spot him he feels sick to his stomach, but if they don’t, he’s relieved

Has Sole carry them just in case the child changes their mind and freaks out after calming down, but will talk to them

Doesn’t really want to bring them back to Goodneighbor, but if that’s the closer option, that’s where they go instead of Sanctuary

Either way, he finds himself extremely attached already, and once the child receives medical attention, he’s bending over backwards to get them whatever they want food, drink, and comfort wise

Once the kid falls asleep, he sits Sole down to talk; (if they’re close) do they think they could co-parent?

Really doesn’t want to let the child go to another home; he’s seen the shittiest of shitty of the wasteland, and doesn’t trust anyone else to raise the child right, but at the same time, he doesn’t think he’d be a good parent

If Sole reassures him and is willing to take on the job, the pair adopt the child. If not, they bring the child home to Sanctuary and discuss with different settlers there whether or not they’d be willing to take on a child

The Longs get first offer

MacCready:

While emotionally he’s destroyed by the sight, he knows how to deal with the situation

He’s a natural with children after Duncan, and so it’s easy for him to approach calmly with plenty of warning and go through the process of making sure the child isn’t fatally wounded before getting permission to move them

Asks some basic questions, if the child isn’t mute, and tells some stories about Dogmeat and the silly things he does

(If Duncan isn’t healthy and he and Sole are just friends) Mac knows that having to part with the child is going to break his heart the moment he sees them, but he can’t take on another kid with the way his life is; it wouldn’t be fair to anyone involved

(If Duncan is healthy, has been moved to Sanctuary, and he and Sole are either best friends or partners and co-parenting) He waits until they’ve gotten the kid settled and talks to Sole about whether or not they have the mental, physical, literal, etc resources to take on another child

If they agree he’s ecstatic, considering the child won’t have to go to another set of strangers before finding somewhere safe

Brings Duncan in on the conversation and explains what’s going on and asks his opinion

Nick:

Like Hancock, despite the fact that he’d like to help right away, he knows that his appearance can be frightening to those who aren’t used to it

Instead, he tells Sole to go first and approaches afterwards

Whether he’s consciously aware of it or not, he tries to keep his face out of the child’s line of sight to avoid frightening them

Once they’re on the move he’s already gotten in a debate with himself on whether or not he’s willing to put on his Detective hat and look for the child’s parents

Of course, it could be a misunderstanding, and they could’ve gotten split up during an attack or something

But at the same time there’s a visceral anger in him that someone would let their child end up like this; it’s not rational, he knows, especially since it could be an accident, but he can’t really help it

He knows where he could place the child already if Sole and he aren’t in a place to handle the responsibility (and it takes a long while into their friendship/relationship for him to even think about co parenting) due to the many families he’s met during his work

Piper:

She thinks with her heart and not her head, so she’s already scooping up the child before it even registers in her that that may be a bad idea

Panicked, trying to soothe the kid as she’s shooting Sole a frantic expression of what the hell

Has no idea what to do, really, and looks to Sole to help her out

Once they’re on their way to somewhere safe she discusses the fact that (unless she and Sole have moved to Sanctuary and are past the main questline) they probably can’t take on a child

They’re consistently travelling due to her work, Sole’s fighting their battles, etc

If they’ve settled, they already have both Shaun and Nat to worry about, so she’s not quite sure how another child will work in their lives

But if they do decide to take on the responsibility, the decision is made when she goes to get food for the child back in Sanctuary and finds them fast asleep against Sole’s chest

Something about that image seals the deal for her and she knows she and Sole need to have a long talk

Preston:

Unfortunately, like Deacon, this isn’t quite an uncommon sight for him

He approaches and talks his way into trust with practiced ease that’s quite telling of how things go in the wasteland

He’s picked them up and is already on his way out by the time Sole registers what they may want to do about the situation

It’s not really a question to him that the child’s coming back to Sanctuary; he knows that someone will take them in, even if he specifically can’t

He’s had enough field training (and practice) that he knows how to check for injuries and treat some basic ones, so that’s done swiftly and as painlessly as possible

X6-88(Institute):

Doesn’t really see the point in getting involved, but if Sole wants to do something about it, then he doesn’t protest; after all, he’s there to protect them, no matter what antics they get up to, no matter how unadvisable

He keeps his distance and pays no mind to what they’re doing with the child, he’s simply there to keep guard

Wants no part in the matter

X6-88(Post-Institute):

Really isn’t sure what to do at all

He lets Sole approach first and takes cues from them; their cautious body language, quiet voice, etc

Pretty much just follows their lead the entire time due to his uncertainty of the situation, but he adapts eventually

Offers them water pretty much right away because he knows how threatening dehydration can be especially since they’ve been crying

No matter how much he may want it, he doesn’t bring up the idea of him and Sole co-parenting first; they would have to say something first for him to discuss the idea

He is one of the most protective when it comes to finding a family for the child, if that’s what he and Sole decide to do, though

[publickoccurances]

Female companions react to Sole coming back from weeks on the road after a big argument, to profess their love for them.

Cait: It felt like a lifetime since she’d last seen Sole. She’d lost track of the time since that nasty row the two of them had. It wasn’t their first fight as a couple. Hell, they had fights all the time. Cait had always put it down to them both being passionate and stubborn people. But this fight, boy oh boy it had been big.

Cait couldn’t exactly remember how it had started. They’d been sat around a campfire in Sanctuary, nursing a drink each. A settler had come over and asked to join them. Now in Cait’s mind they had been having a moment, so when Sole agreed to let someone join them it had enraged her. Even more so when more people joined. Their moment together had been turned into a social gathering.

Maybe it had been the booze, but all Cait could remember was kicking off big time when they were finally alone in their home they’d been sharing. She remembered shouting something along the lines of ‘Yer so busy pussyfooting around this sad lot that you forget who’s stood right in front of ye. Me! I’m stood right here fecking begging for your attention! Who do ye think I am huh? Some pathetic housewife? If ye can’t see how fecking good you’ve got it maybe you should just piss off!’

Why had she been so angry? Sure Sole sometimes was a bit oblivious to her attempts at being affectionate. And it did get a bit frustrating that when she would plan something nice for them Sole would invite any Tom, Dick and Harry to join them. But had it really been such a big deal? Did she really need to drive the person she was falling in love with away?

Just as she was getting lost in her thoughts there was a knock on the door. ‘Who the feck is knocking at this time o’ night?’ Cait muttered to herself as she pulled herself out of bed. Whoever it was that had disturbed her precious ‘wallow in your own self pity’ time would certainly be getting a punch to the jaw.

Cait stumbled to the door. God damn, maybe she’d drank one too many beers tonight. Oh well. She was at the door now. Might as well answer. Her strong hand pulled down the handle. “Now whoever ye think ye are, ye best have a good fecking reason to...” She stopped mid sentence.

“Hey...” A familiar soft voice spoke out.

Cait took a step away from the door, shaking her head slightly. Surely this was a dream?

Sole stepped inside, closing the door behind them. “Look Cait- I just want to say that I’m..”

Cait shook her head before they could even finish the sentence. She could feel rage boiling up inside her. Sole had left. It had been weeks. No word. No news. No nothing. And here they were trying to say sorry???

“You cruel heartless piece of shite!” She roared. Well that had certainly not meant to be as loud as it was. “Fecking weeks I’ve been here waiting on ye! For all I knew ye were some fecking mongrels snack by now, an’ what? Yer just gonna show up outta the blue? Say yer sorry???” Though her voice radiated anger, there was a twinge of hurt. Sole. The one person she had slowly been opening herself up to and they had left.

Sole felt their stomach drop as they watched on. At this point they couldn’t even focus on the insults Cait was hurling at them. No. They were too focused on what seemed to be tears pricking at her eyes. They had never seen Cait cry before. Suddenly Sole zoned back in to what Cait was saying.

“Ye wasn’t supposed to really piss off.” She eventually sighed on defeat, turning away from Sole. She sss trying so hard not to appear weak in front of them. But here she was. Fighting back tears.

Sole stepped forward, reaching our for Caits hand. Even when they felt Cait flinch away they didn’t hesitate to take her hand in their own. They had turned their back on her once, but they weren’t going to do it again. They had sometbing to say and it had to be said now.

“Cait. It’s really important that you listen to what I have to say right now.” Sole pleaded, using their other hand to tilt Caits head so her gaze met their own. “I know you’re so mad at me right now. But I need you to for once shut up and listen to me okay?”

Cait was slightly taken aback. Shut up and listen? Shut up and fecking listen? Who on gods green earth did they think they fecking were? She had in fact been so taken aback that she couldn’t even muster up a reaction, she just blankly stared.

“I fucked up. I fucked up big time.” Sole began, their voice soft and low, eyes on Caits as they spoke. “When you told me to leave I should have known better. I should have stayed- but I was stupid and hurt and I left.” The regret in their voice was clear. Even Cait could see that.

Sole took another step closer as they spoke, as though the closer they got the more likely Cait was to listen. “But Cait I came back because, and please don’t freak out about this, but Cait I came back because I love you.”

Cait felt her cheeks suddenly start to burn. She was blushing? She’d never blushed before. Well. She had but it had always been during sex. Sole loved her? After all the nasty things she had said. Sole loved her?

“I- I don’t-ye... I.” Cait stammered as she tried to throw together a sentence that made any kind of sense. “Ye love me?” There was disbelief in her voice as she repeated what Sole had just said.

Sole was decidedly feeling extremely nervous now. But nonetheless they nodded their head. “I love you.” They repeated yet again.

Suddenly Cait had thrown her arms around them, enough to make Sole stagger backward into the door. Okay so that had certainly been an unexpected reaction.

“And I love you.” Cait almost whispered, as though saying it too loud would cause the walls around them to collapse. “Just do me a favour yeah? Next time I tell ye to piss off- don’t listen to me.”

Curie: Curie tapped her fingers impatiently against her desk as she stared at the terminal screen in front of her. Research notes. She felt like all she did now was stare at research notes.

Life had been much more interesting when Sole had been around. They made Curie feel like she was constantly on her feet, constantly engaging her mind. But that had changed rather suddenly. One outburst of anger and frustration from Curie and Some had simply walked away from her. Despite how cruel that sounded in her mind she still missed them dearly. Sole had been rummaging up feelings in her that she had never felt before. Never even knew existed. But now they were gone.

“You are zo zo stupid Curie.” She mumbled to herself as she continued to stare at the research notes. “Ad’ you not shouted such terrible things Sole would still be ere’, no?”

Since Sole had left Curie had picked up a habit of speaking to herself. It helped her try and forget that awful awful day that she had lost her temper and drove Sole away.

Yes Curie remembered it as though it had only happened yesterday. She had been conducting an experiment in the lab when Sole had blundered in as they did most days. Now usually Curie didn’t mind her lover coming to see her as she worked. But that particular day she was experiencing stress for the first time. A specimen wasn’t reacting the way she had hoped under the microscope. And when Sole had accidentally nudged into her as she was positioning the slide it had pushed her over the edge. Much to her disliking Curie remembered every single word she had said.

‘You clearly ave’ no respect for me, no? I work zo hard ere’ trying to find ways of helping the people of this cruel world. And all you do iz’ ruin everything I work on! Look at what you ave’ done! I ave’ been working on this specimen for weeks and now it iz on the floor! Worthless! My work iz’ clearly worthless to you! You must go. You must go now. I wish for you to leave me be. I ave’ a far more important job than to watch you destroy all I care for.’

It had been the first emotional outburst Curie had ever experienced. She hadn’t meant the things she said. In fact, she knew Sole had a great respect for the work that she carried out. But that day the way they had so carelessly conducted themself had just pushed her right over the edge.

Despite this, she wished for them to come back. It had been weeks. She missed her friend. Her lover. Her Sole. She missed them dearly.

When there was a knock on her door Curie didn’t even look away from her computer. “It iz’ open!” She called out. It was probably the order of fest syringes she had put in.

“Curie... hi.” Sole spoke sheepishly as they stepped into Curies lab. They were extremely nervous. The last time they had seen her she had all but chased them out of this very room.

Curie was of course very shocked to see Sole stood there looking so sheepish. She wasn’t sure what this emotion was she was feeling right now. Whether it was relief or anger she couldn’t tell. All she knew was that for once she was at a complete loss for words.

Sole cleared their throat as they stepped closer. “I um- I know I’ve been gone a while-.’ They began, but were quickly interrupted by Curie.

“It as’ been exactly twelve weeks.” Curie stated simply, eyes meeting Soles as she spoke.

Sole nodded their head. God. Curie didn’t miss a beat did she? Well that was one of the reasons they loved her. Now it was just a case of telling her.

Sole fiddled with their hands as they looked down. “Curie. It broke my heart when you said I didn’t have any respect for you.” They admitted quietly, cheeks slightly flushed with embarrassment. “But I just want you to know that is the absolute furthest from the truth. Because I love you Curie. And it may have taken twelve weeks for me to muster up the courage to tell you. But I love you okay?”

Curie felt a new emotion. A strong emotion. One that had made her vision for slightly blurry as her mind raced. Love. This was what she was feeling. She was feeling love.

“If that iz’ so...” Curie spoke as she placed her hands on Soles shoulder. “If that iz’ so, then perhaps you would help me conduct an experiment? Show me how one might express thiz’ emotion through... through actions?”

Piper: Piper took a long drag from her cigarette as she tapped away at her keyboard with one hand.

“Headline of the week: Still No News From Blue.” She grumbled to herself, trying to keep as quiet as possible. It was late and Nat was sleeping downstairs. The last thing she wanted was to wake her little sister with her grumbling about someone who clearly hadn’t cared for them.

Damn. She had really thought Blue would be different. Sure she had been pretty fiesty in their last argument. And sure some words had been said that she wished she could take back. But to disappear for weeks on end like this? It was just cruel.

Piper sighed as she moved her hand away from the keyboard, taking a long swig of Nuke Cola. “Come on Piper... you’ve got more important things to be writing about.”

But before she could even begin typing again she had a flashback to the argument in question. God it had been so stupid. Sole had gotten drunk, nothing major, just drunk and annoying. Nothing wrong with that? Well. Maybe had they not have been drunk in front of Nat. What the hell had they been thinking? When Piper had invited them to live with her and Nat she thought it would be to strengthen their relationship, not watch the person she’d been falling in love with act so irresponsible around her little sister.

She remembered the night too well. Her and Nat had been awake reading comic books and listening to the evening radio. Just as they were thinking about heading to bed Sole had stumbled in absolutely stinking of whiskey. She had known they were going to the Dugout, but she hadn’t realised they were going to be getting pissed like this. And it wouldn’t have even bothered her had they just have given her a little heads up so she could have made sure Nat was in bed by the time they’d got back. Her little sis was precious and Piper wasn’t ready to expose her to certain things. Not yet.

The argument that had followed had been terrible. Piper had told Sole to get some fresh air while she got Nat off to bed. And when she joined them outside of the building she didn’t hesitate to lay into them.

‘Blue I told you I didn’t want you being drunk around Nat! She’s seen enough people in states in this city and the last thing that kid needs is to see the person she idolises an absolute mess! Look at you, you can’t even stand up properly! How could you be so fucking irresponsible. I asked you to move in with me because I thought we were going to move onto the next step of our relationship! I thought we were going to- you know what it doesn’t even matter. I want you gone! I don’t want you in my house or near my sister.’

Of course she had only meant for the night. All Piper had wanted was for Sole to sober up and apologise. She had just wanted them to be a little more responsible. But no. They had to take what she said so literally and leave? It had broke her heart. It had broke Nats heart. And here she was at half past midnight now crying silently at her desk as she remembered the last thing she had said to her Blue.

Suddenly Pipers head shot up. Did she just hear a knock on the door? Not even the front door. The door that lead out into the roof? She raised her eyebrow and cautiously moved to the door. Hell she was in no state to entertain right now. Especially when all she wss wearing was an oversized tshirt that had once belonged to Sole.

Piper took a deep breath as she opened the door. She didn’t know who to expect at this time. But when she realise who was stood on the other side she was shocked.

“B-Blue?” Piper gasped quietly. She couldn’t tell if she was super happy or super angry to see them. But nonetheless, she stepped back, allowing them to come inside.

“Sorry if I scared you.” Sole whispered as they rubbed the back of their head. “I figured Nat would be asleep by now and I didn’t want to wake her by knocking on the front door.”

Piper was lighting up another cigarette as Sole spoke. She felt tense. And these magic sticks always made her feel less tense. “I appreciate that.” She had composed herself now. Her tone was slightly cold. It was clear she was looking for Sole to explain themselves now they intial shock had passed.

“It’s been a while huh?” Sole chuckled as they perched themself on the edge of the bed they had once shared with Piper. God they felt so stupid right now.

“Twelve weeks to the day- I mean. I think.” Piper nodded stiffly. Damn it Piper. Don’t sound like you’ve been missing them and counting the days. Be strong. They had hurt you remember.

Sole nodded slowly, looking down to their feet. “You- you look good.”

Piper was starting to get a bit pissed off. Had they really come to her door in the middle of the night to make small talk after disappearing for weeks? What the hell was their deal?

“I know. I always do.” She muttered confidently as she stubbed the cigarette out in an ashtray Sole had made for her. God damn that wasn’t helping her appear cold and uncaring.

“Listen Blue. I don’t know what you came here expecting-.” Piper began to speak but was cut off by a pair of soft lips suddenly meeting her. She couldnt help but melt into the kiss for a moment. But she stuck to her guns and pushed her ex lover away. “No. You don’t get to do that. Not after what you’ve put me through.” As she was speaking Sole was trying to place a piece of paper into her hands. What the hell were they playing at?

Piper let out a frustrated sigh as she looked at the paper. Her hands starting to shake ever so slightly as she read what had been written onto it in a rather artist way. ‘Headline of the week: Blue Loves You Piper’.

“Blue loves you piper... blue loves you piper... wait.” It suddenly clicked and she started into Blues large and now watering eyes. “You- you love me?”

Sole watched her carefully. Nodding their head slowly. They were too scared to speak. Scared that she was gonna be mad at them and kick them out again.

“Well. You’ve got a lot of making up to do.” Piper sighed softly, but a small smile was now tugging at her lips. “But I love you too.”

[twomanyideas]

The Search for the Supreme Scent - Chapter 4 (Final)

Fanart used with permission from @x-thekid​. Once again, please take a moment to let her know how much you liked it. You can see her post here!

A collaboration by @mdelpin and @oryu404 with @x-thekid​

This chapter is the one that touches on what is happening in the art. We had a lot of fun writing it. We hope you enjoy it!

AO3 | Ch 1 | Prev: Ch 3 

Chapter 4

The first thing Natsu registered when he came to was the heavy perfume of the flowers, immediately followed by a sharp pain in his chest as he inhaled it. He hissed, rolling over carefully so he could look around. He found himself in a green, grassy field, sheltered from the sun by the shade of a large tree, and surrounded by the very flowers they’d come to collect.

Gray sat next to him, leaning against the tree trunk with his arms crossed over his chest. His shirt was nowhere to be found, as usual.

“Wanna tell me what that was about?” he cocked his brow at Natsu.

“What do you mean?” Natsu answered, his voice sounding a bit shaky, “I took them out, didn’t I?”

He wasn’t sure what else to say. That whole thing had been unexpected. Just as it had the previous day with Juvia, he’d felt his control wavering, as if some deeper instinct had surged forward and taken over.

“Yeah, but that was overboard even for you,” Gray pointed out, his eyes never leaving Natsu’s face, “You turned those golems into gravel. Was that Dragon Force? I didn’t think you could do that on command yet.”

“I can’t. I saw you were in danger and-,” Natsu shrugged helplessly, embarrassed by his admission.

“Did you forget Porlyusica lives nearby?” Gray reminded Natsu, making him feel idiotic for overreacting the way he had.

Natsu looked away, not knowing how to respond. He didn’t understand what was happening to him, but one thing he felt sure of, it wouldn’t have made any difference. Even if he had consciously thought about the healer’s proximity, that rage he’d experienced wouldn’t have been satisfied by any other course of action.

“I was trying to protect you, you dimwit. You’re the one who's hurt,” Gray continued, pressing his lips in a slight frown. “Not that that’s ever stopped you from doing something stupid,” he added with an exasperated sigh.

“Yeah, well, we managed to stumble onto the one creature that’s immune to ice, I had to do something.”

“Since we’re here, we should have Porlyusica take a look at you,” Gray suggested, clasping his hands over his head as he took in Natsu’s strained breathing. “you’ve probably made your injuries worse.”

“Hell no!” Natsu immediately protested, sitting up to show he was fine, even though he felt like throwing up just from that. Getting home was going to be a bitch.

Gray’s eyes narrowed as he examined him, “You gotta give me more than that, Pyro. Why would you want to walk home like that when there’s a healer nearby?”

“You mean you weren’t going to carry me?” Natsu feigned a pout.

Gray snorted, “Not likely, maybe if you passed out and looked all pathetic again.”

“You ungrateful bastard,” Natsu tightened his hands into fists in mock anger, “I should have let them turn you into mush.”

“Natsu,” Gray startled him by using his name, “I know things have been weird between us since you got back, but despite what I might have said at Avatar, I’m still your friend. I know when something is bothering you. And sure, we can sit here and trade insults all day, but wouldn’t you rather tell me what’s wrong?”

He’d rather not, but he could tell by the way Gray was looking at him and the serious tone of his voice that he refused to be kept in the dark any longer. The combination was enough for Natsu to cave. He didn’t like keeping secrets from Gray, and if he was honest with himself, he did want to talk about what happened, despite dreading the reaction he was sure to get.

“Wendy needs to be the one who heals me,” he explained, quickly adding, “and I'm not just saying that because I don’t want to see the old hag. After what happened yesterday, well…let’s just say it will help give her closure.”

“Closure?” Gray puzzled, “What are you talking about?”

“If I tell you this, you have to promise not to freak out, or go crying to Erza,” Natsu insisted.

“Yeah yeah, do you need me to do the needle in my eye thing?” Gray rolled his eyes at him, “We’re not kids anymore. I can keep a secret.”

Natsu closed his eyes, preparing himself mentally to go back to that plaza. When he opened them, he could see Gray studying him closely. Feeling his cheeks heating up, he quickly looked away.

“We did a job at Worth Woodsea yesterday, and when we were done training, we stopped to pick some rare mushrooms. Sting had liked them and wanted to take some back to Sabertooth for Minerva.”

“Wendy asked to stop by the Cait Shelter guild building to pay her respects, and we agreed. Everything was quiet, and we just hung around waiting for her, but then a giant monster pack appeared out of nowhere.

“We fought them off easily enough at first, even though we were already tired from training but more and more kept coming. We think it was the mushrooms that attracted them. Anyway, we’d soon run out of potions to help keep us going.” Natsu tried to swallow back the lump that was forming in his throat as the images flashed through his mind once again. “Sting was hit bad, and uhm...well, Rogue died.”

“HE WHAT?!” Gray’s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets, his skin paling from shock.

“He’s at the hospital now, he's going to be okay,” Natsu assured him, “but it was close.”

“He’s going to be okay?!” Gray challenged, “How the hell do you go from dead to okay?”

“Do you remember that book Porlyusica gave Wendy before the Games?”

“Sure, it had spells her dragon left for her, right?”

“Yeah, well, this was one of them. Wendy had learned it, but she’d never used it before. She was determined to give it a try if it could save Rogue, but she was terrified.”

“She’d been fighting alongside us and providing support all afternoon, and that spell- it used up all of her remaining magic,” Natsu turned away, not wanting to see Gray’s disapproval. They were protective of all their teammates, but none more so than Wendy, who was still young.

“She managed to save him, but the monsters wouldn’t let up, and we got pretty beat up in the process. She couldn’t heal us, and you know how she is,” Natsu lifted his shoulder in a half-shrug, “If anyone else does it, it will reinforce what she feels is her failure.”

Natsu attempted what he thought was a reassuring smile, “It’s not so bad. If she could go through all that, I can certainly bear this for a bit longer.”

“You’re full of it, but I get what you’re saying.”

Gray remained silent for a few minutes, eyes blinking slowly until he suddenly peered at Natsu, his brows furrowed in thought, “Wait a minute, how exactly does a pack of monsters manage to get the drop on five dragon slayers?”

Natsu gazed up through the tree branches, trying to catch a glimpse of the sky as he worked himself through what had happened, putting together the situations that individually wouldn’t have been such a huge deal, but together proved to be lethal.

“It was the rain,” he muttered, “it dampened our sense of smell, and it screwed with my magic. Probably made their movements quieter too.”

“What are you talking about?” Gray frowned. “It didn’t rain yesterday.”

“It did in Worth Woodsea,” Natsu countered, “started right as we got to Cait Shelter.”

Gray’s expression once again became thoughtful as he considered Natsu’s words, his hands suddenly balling into fists for no reason Natsu could see.

“You’ve got to be kidding me!” Gray roared, “I thought we were done with that nonsense!”

“What are you going on about?” Natsu wondered, unable to make any sense of Gray’s outburst.

“Don’t worry about it, it’s not important,” Gray dismissed his question, but Natsu could tell he was still angry.

Gray drew in a long breath, looking away for a moment before focusing his attention back to Natsu.

“I get that whatever happened yesterday was some kind of a freak occurrence,” he remarked, “but it’s not the first time you’ve come back all beat up from one of these things.”

“Look, I know you want to get stronger, I do too,” Gray’s eyes bored into Natsu with a concern that shook him, “ but the fact is, I don’t trust these guys to have your back.”

Natsu was about to argue the point when Gray followed up with something he hadn’t been expecting.

“That’s something you and I have always done, even back when we were fighting all the time,” Gray reminded him, his mouth twitching into a crooked smile.

And as much as it was in his nature to disagree with most things that came out of Gray’s mouth, Natsu had to admit this time he was right. Even though they bickered and fought often, there had never been a job or brawl where Natsu hadn’t been watching the stripper’s back, and he’d always taken it for granted that Gray did the same.

Regardless, Natsu didn’t think it was fair for Gray to compare their dynamic to the one he shared with the other slayers. The two of them had been training together for years, moving like a well-oiled machine and fighting together flawlessly. In comparison, he’d only known the other slayers for a short time. They were still learning how to work together as a team.

“Gray-”

“Do you remember when we fought at Avatar, and you told me you’d been waiting for me?” Gray interrupted his objection, not saying anything else until Natsu nodded in acknowledgment.

“Well, I couldn’t say it at the time, but I’d been waiting for you too. That whole year you were gone,” Gray confessed, “So much had happened, and I couldn’t really talk about it with anyone else.”

Natsu scanned the field they were sitting in, too nervous to meet Gray's eyes when he continued.

“You’ve always understood me better than anyone, and I had hoped that when you got back well... nevermind that now. The point is there’s no one I trust more. And I know there’s been a few times when I went too far or pushed too hard, but that’s because you’re important to me.”

Natsu's heart was racing. Was Gray going to say what he thought he was going to say? He'd been ready to make the first move himself, gathering up his courage and his thoughts, and trying to form them into sentences that hopefully wouldn't sound completely ridiculous, but now it seemed like Gray was going to beat him to it.

Natsu forced himself to look at Gray, feeling the weight of his gaze, but not able to hold it for long, too flustered by the earnestness that had replaced his friend’s usual scowl. He considered Wendy's advice once again as he looked at the flowers growing around them.

“We make a great team, and that’s why I want to ask you something important.”

For the first time since he’d started talking, Gray sounded unsure, and Natsu looked up to see his friend had curled his fingers around his sword pendant, fidgeting with it as he worked himself up to ask his question.

It only served to feed Natsu’s anticipation and excitement. He looked for the prettiest flower he could find and picked it, determined to give it to Gray as a token of his love. He couldn’t believe this was finally happening!

“Would you be my partner for the S-class exam?”

“Yes, I’d love to!” Natsu answered excitedly, the hand that was holding the flower thrusting out like a piston before Gray’s words had even had a chance to sink in.

“Wait, what did you just ask me?”

Natsu felt the blood rush to his face, and the temperature around him rise as his magic responded to his emotions. He was humiliated, but that was nothing compared to the disappointment he felt at having reached the wrong conclusion.

He should never have listened to the other slayers. Their well-meaning optimism had made him believe that Gray would ask him out or, at the very least, admit to some sort of feelings for him. What a joke that turned out to be.

Natsu realized with growing horror that his arm was still outstretched, offering that stupid flower, which of course, his magic had now set on fire, the tiny flames working away at the once perfect petals.

What had been a beautiful offering now looked utterly wretched, but there was nothing he could do about it. It was his fire. So he hid his face in his scarf as best he could, looking straight ahead and desperately hoping that if he ignored it, Gray would somehow not notice.

“I asked if you wanted to be my partner for the S-Class exam,” Gray repeated, taking in the spectacle that was Natsu with barely a raised eyebrow. “Since we don’t have to compete against each other this time around. I thought we could do it together.”

Gray calmly coated the flower in his ice, putting out the flames and dousing the rest of Natsu’s hopes along with it.

Natsu did his best to act enthused, “Yeah! If we teamed up, there’s no way we could fail!”

He thought he’d done a good job until he noticed Gray studying him intently.

“What did you think I was going to ask?”

“Nothing!” Natsu answered a little too quickly, leaving Gray to frown at him in disbelief. However, in a remarkable turn of events, the stubborn stripper seemed content not to question him any further. “Speaking of teaming up,” Gray changed the subject, “I want in on the slayers’ team. If you thought you could just run off and get stronger without me, you were seriously mistaken.”

“I’d have to bring it up to the others,” Natsu answered honestly, not having any idea how the other slayers would react to having Gray be a part of what they were doing. “It’s not up for discussion,” Gray replied, his jaw set in an arrogant scowl that Natsu was all too familiar with, “It shouldn’t be a problem. In case you’ve already forgotten, I’m a slayer too.”

He gestured towards Natsu’s ribs, “That wouldn’t have happened if I’d been there. Besides, lately, you’re with them all the time. At least this way, we can still get some training in. Not to mention, someone needs to watch out for Wendy.”

Natsu sighed in defeat, wondering how a love confession had turned into this. He watched as Gray got up and began to pick some flowers to fulfill their request and decided to do the same.

“Don’t bother,” Gray called out, much to Natsu’s relief as the little movement he’d managed had been incredibly painful.

That was until the ice mage snickered, “I wouldn’t want to risk another flower upsetting you.”

“That was an accident!” Natsu whined, growing ever more irritated as Gray only laughed harder at his protests.

“It was hilarious,” Gray snorted, his laughs finally ebbing into fond chuckles, “I really did miss you, Flame Brain, it just wasn’t the same without you.”

“I, uh, missed you too,” Natsu replied honestly, watching Gray collect the flowers for Ichiya as he lay back down on the grass to rest for the long walk home. 0-0

Gray wasn’t at all surprised to find he’d been right. Natsu had put too much stress on his healing injuries during the fight, making them even worse. It was easy to tell by the way his breathing turned more shallow with every step he took, and the sweat he’d worked up just from walking. It didn’t take long before Gray decided he couldn’t stand to watch the stubborn idiot suffer any longer, and despite Natsu’s loud protests, he’d picked him up and kept walking.

Natsu fell asleep soon after, leaving Gray to consider everything he’d seen and heard- Natsu going into Dragon Force against the golems, Rogue’s “death”, Wendy’s spell- but he soon decided these were all things he could tackle at a later time.

For right now, he just wanted to savor the feeling of Natsu’s warm body pressed against his back, the weight of the arms draped over his shoulders, the strength of the legs wrapped around his sides, and the sound of ragged breaths in his ear. All of which helped to reassure him that Natsu was alive, injured but ready to fight another day.

His features worked themselves into a scowl as his mind drifted back to Natsu’s insistence that the rain had weakened the slayers’ senses and hindered their efforts. All the rage he’d tried to contain resurfaced, and he could feel the inky tendrils of his devil slayer magic trying to grab purchase, just as they had earlier. His flaring emotions making it harder for him to control this new magic his father had bequeathed him.

Natsu’s fire magic was powerful. There was no way a little rain would give him any trouble, which meant it must have been a storm. One that somehow managed to miss Magnolia completely despite its proximity to Worth Woodsea. Only one person he knew of was capable of such localized weather, especially when she let her emotions take control.

His eyes narrowed as he remembered the flyer he’d been holding when Juvia had approached him the previous morning. It had been a monster request in the Great Plains, an area located closer to Worth Woodsea than Magnolia. And Gray was very familiar with Juvia’s tendency to follow him on jobs.

It wasn’t hard to put two and two together. Juvia had probably gone to the Great Plains looking for him, determined to get him to agree to be her partner for the S-Class exam, or talk about his outburst that morning. Either way, the result had been the same. She must have overreacted when she couldn’t find him and set off a storm around the Great Plains and Worth Woodsea. And while Gray knew that she would never purposefully put their friends in danger, it did nothing to change what had almost happened.

He would just have to make Juvia understand his feelings once and for all. He’d meant to talk to her ever since they’d returned to Magnolia but kept putting it off, knowing it would be uncomfortable and would only lead to conversations he’d rather avoid. That had been a mistake, one that had nearly cost him his friends.

He spent the rest of the walk coming up with what he would say to her, trying to determine the best approach, even though he knew all would be received poorly. By the time they arrived at Natsu’s cottage, Gray’s back was screaming in agony, and he was grateful for the distraction. Finding the door unlocked, he managed to get them inside without incident.

Happy was nowhere to be found, and Gray figured the Exceed must’ve gotten bored and headed for the guild. As Natsu was still fast asleep, he carried him into the bedroom, carefully lowering him onto the bed, thinking that he should get as much rest as he could before seeing Wendy. He’d take care of delivering the flowers and reporting back to Erza himself. Not knowing what else to do, Gray got ready to leave, and that’s when Natsu grinned, his eyes still closed, “I knew you were going to carry me, Ice Princess.” “Pfft! Well, that’s because you did look pathetic,” Gray retorted with a smile, amused to learn that the protests he’d received were all faked. He thought back to how excited Natsu had been right before he’d asked him to be his partner for the exam and wondered if maybe, just maybe, Natsu offering him that flower was supposed to have been a confession of some sort.

But that didn’t make any sense. He wouldn’t have burned it to a crisp and almost set off a forest fire if it was, right? No, Gray was sure it was just wishful thinking on his part. Still… Natsu had gone into Dragon Force to protect him from those golems, that had to mean something. Didn’t it? He quietly molded his ice into a perfect replica of the flower, creating a vase to put it in and placing both on the bedside table. He wasn’t sure if he’d ever be brave enough to express his feelings with words. But maybe, if he let his magic speak for him, he could get his feelings across just as well. Gray quickly let himself out of the house, knowing he might chicken out if he stayed any longer.

He wondered what Natsu would think of his flower once he woke up and hoped he’d understand what it meant. You never knew with the Flame Brain.

But even if he didn’t, Gray was heartened by the knowledge that they’d be spending a lot more time together soon. And with that single thought in his mind, he headed off to the guild, in a great mood for the first time in weeks.

A/N: While this is the end of this particular story, it is not the end of their story in this world. We are currently working on a story for Sting and Rogue where it goes into more detail into what happened in Worth Woodsea and how it affects them, so if you like this world keep an eye out for that one as well, as other stories that are currently in the planning stages.

Thanks for reading and letting us know you liked it! 

Maria and Burrito

[fallout-snippets]

(Love ur blog! Take as long as you need to finish each ask! Work takes time and if u need to wait for a certain mindset thats ok!) Companions react to sole being overburdened and the companion is just like alright empty your bag ill carry something but its just 300+ teddy bears. Alternately its a single massive teddy bear dressed up as the companion.

(thank you! i really appriciate the validation :Dc doing this one before the old ones cause i gotta remind y’all that there’s gonna be like 20 asks in queue so if youre just sending one in it might take a while before you see it. please keep sending me asks tho! its always open)

Cait sighs in unbelievable frustration. “There’s hundreds of these! What the fuck are you even going to do with them?” She may ‘accidentally’ drop a few on the way back. Alt: She tears the head off of it. There can be only one. Also she’ll sideeye Sole for a long time after that.

Codsworth doesn’t really know what to say. He wants to be supportive but what the heck is this? Carries what he can because he did ask if they needed him to and of course he’ll help Sole but it might be a while before he asks again.Alt: he’s probably honestly really flattered. Totally ignores how impractical it is and gladly carries the whole thing all the way home. To think, Sole loves him this much!

Curie isn’t too bothered about it. She’s excited to see what Sole will put them to use for. Maybe they’ll tear out the stuffing to make better pillows and sew the ‘skin’ into blankets. Maybe they’ll hand them out to children to make them happier. The possibilites are endless.Alt: She doesn’t really get why but she knows it’s some sort of compliment. It’s not something someone would do out of malice, right? Agrees to help carry it but will ask a LOT of questions about it.

Danse probably refuses to carry them at first. Like, yeah Sole repurposes a lot of scrap into good things but teddy bears? Come on. Eventually gets begged into helping because he just can’t resist helping out.Alt: He’s completely perplexed. Has a million questions but he’s a little afraid to ask. He’ll help carry it home but he’ll make damn sure it gets hidden where no one will ever find it.

Deacon says “Oh whoa! Where’d you get these? I thought super-secret weapons like these were forbidden!” He’ll help Sole carry them home but probably because he wants a few to himself. There are already plans hatching in how to use them. Like, maybe he’ll place one at the foot of MacCreadys bed every morning and see how long until he completely freaks out.Alt: “Be-…Beacon? I thought I’d never see you again! Hey Sole, how’d you find my twinbrother?” Will absolutely shred it though, once Sole looks away. Says his twin had a horrible accident but oh well! Why dwell on it.

Dogmeat goes NUTS once he sees all the teddybears. Sole knows only half are going to make it home now. He leaves a trail of torn heads and stuffing behind them. Alt: His tail starts wagging so hard his whole butt wags. Wants to play and wants to play NOW. Will whine the whole way home until he gets to play with his new best friend.

Hancock stares at them for a minute. “I mean, I ain’t gonna judge you. I just… Alright.” Can’t really imagine the use for them but he trusts Sole. Like Codsworth, probably wont ask to help again for a while. Alt: Tries to keep it cool but is super flattered. “Y’know, if you just wanted somethin’ to cuddle I’m right here. Don’t need a teddy for that.”

MacCready takes one look at the teddy bears and says “No.” Eventually gets bullied or convinced to help out, depending on how you look at it, but is Not Happy about it. Will constantly let Sole know just how not happy he is. Alt: He’s also pretty flattered but mostly suspicious. What’s its purpose? Is it for comfort and cuddling? Is it a punching bag? Are they going to try to frame him for murder or something?

Nick just sighs and says “Kid…” Does help out because, like Codsworth, he did say he would. Lets them know though that if this the kind of stuff they collect until they’re overencumbered, they can keep it to themselves next time.Alt: He gets that it’s meant as some sort of compliment but it’s, like, too much of a compliment.

Piper says “Oh come on. You can’t possibly need all of these.” Agrees to carry a few but just enough so that Sole can carry the rest of it themselves. Probably keeps a cute one to herself but doesn’t admit it. Alt: Depending on how close they are, Piper is either a little creeped out or laughs about it. Isn’t really into it but as long as Sole doesn’t get gross about it it’s fine.

Preston hesitates but of course, trusts Sole to have a purpose for them. Plus they’re already heading back home to drop their inventory off, he should be helping them carry the load anyway. Alt: Like Piper it depends a little on how close the are. Less creeped out though and more worried that it might be some kind of joke he’s not in on. Doesn’t really laugh about it either but gets really shy when he thinks about Sole having a teddy bear dressed as him.

Strong thinks all scrap is crap so it being teddy bears doesn’t faze him. Picks it up and carries it because Strong is strong, tiny fluffy bears are nothing to him. Alt: Stares at it like Ferris Bueller until Sole hides it ‘cause obviously it’s freaking him the hell out.

X6-88 doesn’t question Soles requests. They are far more superior not only to him but to everyone else in the Commonwealth. If they want him to carry 300+ teddy bears he’ll carry 300+ teddy bears. Maybe it’s a test. To see how loyal he is.Alt: probably a little insulted as an initial reaction. Think he’s being compared as a teddy bear; soft and harmless. Then a little worried he might be getting replaced by it, in a humiliating send off. Later understands that it’s an affectionate gesture and it warms him.

Ada is already on board, don’t need to explain anything. It can always come in handy, better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. Alt: if bots could cry she would. Gets weirdly sentimental and tries to hug Sole but is so into it she bruises their arms. If she wasn’t already ride or die for Sole, she is now.

Longfellow rolls his eyes but carries some. Probably ditches a few along the way but unlike Cait he doesn’t bother trying to say it was an accident. “Just a few casualties.” Dropkicks one off a cliff just because. Alt: Gets really happy about it, thinks it’s pretty cool they made it look just like him. Asks if he can keep it.

Gage is a little worried that his new Boss might be losing a few screws but then figures it might be some kind of psychological warfare on their enemies. Doesn’t ask about it because he doesn’t want to seem stupid but thinks long and hard and can’t imagine what they’re going to be used for. Alt: Doesn’t have a huge reaction. Thinks it’s neat they got his details down but makes sure to let them know people can still tell it’s a teddy bear and it’s a shitty decoy.

[saiilorstars]

It Had To Be You

Ch.13:  Ever After Christmas // Story Masterlist

Fandom: The Flash

Pairings: Barry Allen x Original Female Character

Pronunciation of OC’s name: Bell-en. The last syllable has an emphasis so it’s not pronounced like ‘Helen’ would be.

~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~

Chapter Summary: Even though it's Christmas, Belén just can't get into the spirit. With her father's funeral, she feels close to spiraling. Hopefully, Barry has some words that could help her out. After all, he knows the feeling of losing a parent to murder quite literally.

In the undergrounds of the Central City mall, Cisco led the way for Caitlin, holding a small, black device in one hand and a thin, white stick with a circle at its end in the other hand. Caitlin followed closely behind holding her phone as a flashlight for the dark corridors. Both were anxious enough hoping they would find Ronnie Raymond, since this was the spot where Caitlin had spotted him two days ago.

"So, how does this work again?" Caitlin asked quietly in case anyone lurked around. They didn't exactly want to spook them away.

"We follow the ionized particles, and that should lead us right to him," Cisco explained with his eyes glued to his device. "The CPMs are increasing. We should have told Dr. Wells and Barry."

"No," Caitlin remained firm on the decision she took before conducting this trip. "Not until we're sure it's him."

"Oh, wow."

"Look, Ronnie is not like you remembered him," Caitlin swallowed. She still couldn't come to terms with the fact she had seen her supposed-to-be-dead fiancee in the parking lot. She honestly didn't know how she had managed to tell Cisco anything. No one knew besides him and now here they were.

"What does that mean?" Cisco asked, briefly shooting her a look.

"Just don't freak out when you see him, okay?"

Cisco's device abruptly turned off and so he stopped as well. "Oh, I really wish that was because the batteries were dead." But of course, he knew better.

Caitlin spotted something at the end of the corridor - it had the shape of a man. "Ronnie?" she decided her luck and called out. She ignored Cisco's gestures to stay back as she went towards the man that had shined visibly from the little light offered at his end. "Ronnie, it's me, Cait. Look, I brought Cisco with me." She gestured back, her other hand cautiously taking Ronnie's. "We're here to help you. You were in an accident. Do you remember?"

'Ronnie' grunted, his voice stiff as if it was unused. "I'm not Ronnie."

"Yes, you are. You're Ronnie Raymond…"

"I'm not Ronnie," he snatched his hand from hers. "I told you that. Now get away from me."

"Look, we just need to take you back to S.T.A.R. Labs. We'll help you remember who you are-"

Ronnie stepped back, uttering "Firestorm" before he literally burst into flames. Caitlin was sent back against Cisco from the impression, and by the time the flames had died down Ronnie was far away and out of sight.

It took a couple of minutes for Cisco to be able to speak again. "C-c'mon, C-C-Caitlin," he grabbed her arm and pulled her away into the direction they'd come in through. He took Caitlin's phone to check the time, looking for any little distraction. "Damn, we're late!"

Caitlin was in shock and terror at the same time, her mind so frazzled she didn't register them leaving the undergrounds and the mall altogether. All she could think of was Ronnie. How that wasn't her Ronnie anymore.

~ 0 ~

The gloomy sky matched the gloomy mood set over the cemetery. There was a small crowd of people dressed in black by the time Caitlin and Cisco reached the place. Unfortunately, the coffin had already been put down underground.

"You're late," Barry muttered to Cisco. "Where were you?"

"There was traffic," Cisco glanced at Caitlin, who was quietly sniffling to herself. He was pretty sure those tears weren't exactly for David Palayta. He placed a hand on Caitlin's arm, reminding her that she wasn't alone in this.

Spotting one of the Palayta's, Cisco decided to go up ahead. There were only a small crowd of people in the funeral - it being almost Christmas now - so there wasn't many people to go through to get to Belén.

"You're late," she sniffled at him.

"Sorry, there were just things-"

Belén didn't care. She threw her arms around Cisco and hugged him, letting her tears flow from her eyes. Belén's mother, Veronica Green, and her sister, Maritza, were sniffling and watching the grave be filled.

Belén shifted her head to watch the procession herself, but her vision was constantly blurred from her tears. Behind them, Caitlin's own tears were becoming a little too much that Barry finally inquired over it...but not to a much luck.

"Is there something wrong?" he asked and winced, "I mean, you know, apart from this?"

Caitlin beared a little smile and with a napkin dabbed away some tears from her cheeks. "It's...just so sad, you know? All of this? ...during the holidays?" she decided to hold back on the Ronnie story for another time.

"Yeah," Barry nodded, eyes drifting to the front again, this time focusing a little more on Belén. She was still hugging - or practically clinging onto - Cisco. There was a little ping in his heart that made him feel...upset? Was that the feeling? No, because he shouldn't be upset, especially not now. Not when Belén was miserable.

"Do you think that Bells is going to move?" Caitlin's sudden question snapped Barry from his confusing thoughts. He quickly looked at her, registering the question that made him feel that much more uneasy. Caitlin could see - what she thought was - confusion and elaborated quietly, for people were moving up to pay their respects. "I just don't think she'll be able to live on her own in that house. She lost her brother already, and now her Dad? I mean, it's why she's been staying with Iris right? Because she can't face her home? Do you think this time her mom is going to get her to go back to Star City with her? Or, at the very least, Maritza is going to take her home across the city?"

"N-no…" Barry said, unsure. "I don't...I don't think so." He hoped not.

"I would miss her so much," Caitlin sighed, raising her now dry face to see the procession. Her eyes were still red from crying but otherwise it would appear she'd only been crying for the funeral. "But then again, I would understand."

"But she wouldn't," Barry reiterated strongly. Caitlin side-glanced at him, slightly confused. "I-I mean, Belén doesn't look...like she'd want to leave."

"Still, we never know."

Although Caitlin didn't mean that as a warning, it felt like one to Barry - one he didn't want to see through.

When the funeral concluded, most people began to disperse after bidding Belén and her family goodbye. They had planned on no funeral service afterwards because, frankly, no one was in the mood.

"Dear," Mrs. Andrews took Belén into a big hug, "if you need anything, you just let me know, alright?"

"I will, Mrs. Andrews," Belén gave the woman a light smile.

"And Julian feels terrible for not being able to be here," Mrs. Andrews rubbed Belén's arm. "But he sends his condolences."

"Thank you," Belén let the woman go after that. Cisco, who was still with her, turned her just in time to see Caitlin coming towards them with Barry.

"Bells, Dr. Wells feels bad that he couldn't be here but he's not a fan of cemeteries..." Caitlin trailed off.

Belén understood it had to do with his wife's death and of course didn't get upset over it. "It's okay. I know it's not easy for either of you-" she directed that for Caitlin and Barry, "-to be here too. I really appreciate it."

"You know we wouldn't be anywhere else," Caitlin gave her a hug.

"Yeah, we're always going to be there for you," Barry said and took his turn to hug her after Caitlin.

"I know that, trust me," Belén managed to smile a bit.

"Look, Bells, we're going to catch that man. I swear to God we will," Barry vowed, both for her and for him.

"We're already working on something," Cisco added.

"Right now, I just..." Belén had gone from the anger stage to utter despondence. Her father was gone and he would never come back. She would have to live with that for the rest of her life. She would have to live without him for the rest of her life.

The idea scared her to pieces.

And it made fresh tears fill her eyes.

"Sorry," she quickly took in a big breath in hopes of calming down before the waterworks really started.

"It's alright," Cisco rubbed her back comfortingly.

"Belén?" Iris finally got through to the crowd. She'd stopped by to say her condolences to Belén's mother and sister first. "Your mother says she's going to stop by the house to see what, uh...needs to be packed away..."

"Like hell she will," Belén knew exactly where her mother was going and she was not having it.

"You want me to come with you?" Iris was sure Belén was still on the fence of returning home. During the time Belén had stayed with her, Belén had her things brought to her by her friends. They were more than happy to avoid Belén the pain of seeing her empty house...but now there was no avoiding it.

"Yes, please," Belén nodded.

"We'll see you later," Caitlin said to her. They couldn't say anything more about their plan for the new evil speedster with Iris around but Caitlin was almost sure Belén didn't really have a head to listen to the plan anyways.

"Thanks for coming," Belén waved at her friends goodbye and walked with Iris towards the parking lot.

"What now?" Cisco asked the remaining two.

"We catch that man," Barry gritted his teeth together and turned the opposite way.

They had to enact part one of their plan.

~ 0 ~

"I SAID NO!" Belén screamed, standing right in front of her house's staircase. Her mother and sister - along with her nephew Axel - were looking overly confused. Her mother was getting impatient.

"Annah-Belén, there is no point in keeping that room opened for your torture!" Veronica rubbed her forehead. "This is exactly what you did with Rayan's room and what good did that do to you?"

"Mom, it's not right to do this now," Maritza said, much calmer than her younger sister. "We had the funeral about an hour ago, try to understand."

Belén gave a gracious look towards Maritza before speaking again. "Mom, I just lost my Dad and you want me to pack up his things already? Do you understand how awful it is of you to ask me this? To force me into this?"

Iris tried her best not to feel as awkward as she really did. She was there for support but her frustration was getting to her too. Belén had just put her father in a grave and her mother was already talking about putting his things away? "Why not just start with disposable things?" she found herself suggesting. Veronica turned to Iris with a questionable look and although Iris was a bit nervous now she decided to keep going. "Belén hasn't really been around so I'm sure there's a bunch of food in the kitchen that's no longer good."

"Iris is right, Mom," Maritza said, and Iris was deeply grateful for it. "We should leave Dad's things alone for now."

"I can help," Axel raised a hand and started for the kitchen. Iris decided to go along with it - it looked like Belén needed a moment to herself anyways. She often did that nowadays. The once motor-mouth Belén was ceasing to exist. It was frightening.

~ 0 ~

Once changed back into regular clothes, Joe and Barry focused again on retrieving the Tachyon prototype from Dr. McGee. It was part one of their plan and a very crucial one at that. Dr. McGee refused again when Joe alone had asked, and so with no options Joe brought Barry in to brainstorm together.

Now, McGee was looking at an official looking paper in her hands, but there was still something in her look that said this was going to fail as well. "Judge Hankerson was gonna sign this, he would have done so already."

"Look, I'm sure you don't want this investigation to get any more public than it's already been, do you, doctor?" Joe tilted his head.

"This has Harrison Wells written all over it in big, black letters. I am not giving you my tachyon prototype."

Barry, with arms crossed, and a terrible mood, went to the last resort - a not so kind one. "It was quite the tour of your facility, doctor," he began in a distinct, sarcastic tone, "You were fine to let us dumb cops walk around, but I majored in physics and chemistry, and I saw a whole lot of stuff that Sciencie-showcase Magazine would love to hear about. So should I call their editors directly or just leave a few posts on their website?"

There was a visible tension between him and Dr. McGee, but the woman finally gave in and in a low voice told them, "You'll have the tachyon device within the hour. I see why Harrison holds you in such esteem, Mr. Allen. You're very much alike." She spat the last the sentence and strode off.

"Nicely done," Joe praised Barry, but Barry left much in the same manner as .

~ 0 ~

"We're not going to move anything, Belén, I promise," Maritza startled her younger sister from her thoughts. Belén was standing under the doorway of their father's bedroom which was still in the exact way their father had left it.

"Don't make promises you can't keep, Mar," Belén mumbled.

"Hey, I know what I'm saying. Trust in me, alright? You know me-"

Belén turned to face her sister, revealing a visible annoyed expression. "No, I don't know you, Maritza. You're hardly around..."

Maritza felt the inevitable guilt in the pit of her stomach. Of course she couldn't be around that much. Being a single mother with a full time job and plus doing secret meetings with their 'disappeared' brother didn't leave a lot of time for visits.

"You're not alone in this, Belén," Maritza said quietly.

"I'm not," Belén agreed.

"Maybe you should rest-"

Belén rolled her eyes. "Maritza, for the love of God, don't tell me to get rest when our Dad's been murdered."

"How...how would you know that...?"

"Because I do, alright? I was there when the CCPD talked to the witness - Dr. Dorrance. I heard everything, he told me everything. There was a blur, a man, and he was fast too-"

Maritza's eyebrows knitted together as Belén went on. "Are you telling me the Flash killed our father?"

"What? No!" Belén said, in aghast. "Of course not!"

"But you just said this man was fast and-"

"God, Maritza, there are two of them! One good - the Flash - and another bad." Belén swallowed hard. "There was this man, a man in yellow, and he got into Mercury Labs, for Tac...tachy...tach - something important from the lab. This man murdered our father because he was in the way. And it wasn't the Flash. I swear."

Maritza was speechless.

Belén sniffled loudly. Suddenly, the hallway seemed to be crushing her. "I can't...I can't stay here..." she rushed past Maritza, ignoring her sister's calls.

~ 0 ~

Cisco looked up from one of the desk computers with an unmistakable pride on his face. "The tachyon device is in place," he announced to the others. He picked up a tablet beside him and left the cortex.

Barry hated being doubtful of his friends but this case was just far too important. "You think it'll work?"

"It'll work," Dr. Wells assured.

"So how do we advertise to him that the prototype's here?"

"We'll take care of that," Wells then glanced at Joe, the latter doing the same.

Barry noticed the oddness and asked, "What's the problem?"

"Look, Barry…" Joe began, cautiously, "Me and Dr. Wells have spoken, and…"

"We think it would be best if you weren't here for this," Wells finished for him, much smoother and clear.

None of this made any difference to Barry. "What are you talking about?"

"You're too close to this," Joe explained.

"Or maybe you're not close enough," Barry countered, his voice rising. "If you hadn't been too scared and warned me that he was here weeks ago, I could have been prepared for this."

"I think we can all appreciate Joe's concern for Iris, Barry," Wells reminded him of what had been on stake for Joe.

"That's why I have to be here! I'm the best chance at catching this guy!"

Joe shook his head at him. "Not right now, not in this state."

Barry saw some relevancy and tried calming down, but it was virtually impossible. "This man stabbed my mother through the heart and sent my father to prison for it. This is my fight!"

"Not today, son."

Barry could see when he was losing and unfortunately this was one of those moments. Without giving them another word, he snatched his jacket from a nearby table and left the room.

~ 0 ~

"Now, now, why are you on your own during this time of year?" a modulated, man's voice startled Belén from behind.

She had returned to the graveyard after everything and was standing at her father's freshly planted grave. Glancing behind her, she saw a familiar man dressed in blue leather and a matching blue mask. Immediately anger flashed across her face. "Get the hell away from me!"

Azul gave a small laughter in response.

Belén felt that course of anger that was close to triggering that side of her powers. She could feel the small prick of green surface on parts of her skin. "I don't know what the hell you want from me since the last time we met you did nothing but mess around..."

"I'm not here to harm you, Belén."

"And yet you have an icicle in your hand," Belén nodded her head to the freshly made icicle in the man's hand.

"Insurance in case your little speedy friend pops up anytime soon."

"You can stop being scared, he's not here," Belén couldn't help the smirk playing across her lips.

"Well, that's nice and all but I don't quite trust you with that-" Azul ignored the loud scoff Belén gave in return, "-since the last time we met you brought him along."

"Could you blame him? You're a stranger who's most likely committed crimes no one can pin you with."

"Easy there, I'm here to talk to you. Actually," Azul straightened his jacket proudly, "I'm here to help you reunite with your family. But it all depends on you."

"I've heard this before," Belén rolled her eyes and turned to leave.

Azul went after her, dropping his icicle, and grabbed her by the arm to turn her around. Belén found herself just a tad too close to him for her liking. "It's funny you think you're any different from me-"

Belén pushed him away from her and glared. "That's because I am! I'm no criminal like you."

"We've both lost people to this stupid Particle Accelerator."

Belén detected a trace of deep despondence in his tone, the kind you couldn't fake. It was the one she was sure she carried at the moment. "Who did you lose?" she found herself asking.

"My mother. She was all I had in the world and she was killed on the street when that Accelerator went off. I didn't even get to bury her because her body was entangled with other deceased."

"I'm so sorry," Belén whispered. It was apparent the pain was still pretty raw despite the time.

"You see, we're not so different. Perhaps I've been going about this all wrong with the mysterious texts and phone calls. You need to see that I'm being honest. There was the first detail about me, now you go."

"Oh, so now we're doing an exchange?" Belén raised her eyebrows. "I never agreed to that."

"But you did - the moment you gave that sympathetic face of yours. So, c'mon, tell me something about yourself."

Belén hesitated, turning her head slightly, looking him up and down. "I can't be sure you're saying the truth. For all I know, this is a trap, and the moment I let my guard down you'll try to do something."

"Or, I could just be the one person who can help you get to your brother," Azul countered with.

"I already have people helping me look for him," Belén crossed her arms.

Azul scoffed. "Oh please, those idiots you have for friends have the answers right under their noses and they haven't figured it out. Don't confide in them so much, Belén. You don't belong with them."

Belén's eyes widened, visibly offended. "Excuse me? You know my friends now?"

"Oh, c'mon," Azul titled his head. "You, a journalist, making a friends with bio-engineers? Police officers? Forensics? How uncomfortable it must be for you sometimes. They're like in their own little world but you can't seem to reach up to them. I'm sure often times you wished you were like them, right?"

It was so easy to tell how close to home he was hitting. But it was necessary to get her to willingly come with him.

"My Dad said, once, that the world needed a woman like me...and I'm going to live by that, for him," Belén swallowed roughly. "And soon, someone else will see that too. So I don't care if my friends happen to be smarter than me. The world needs a Caitlin Snow; it needs a Cisco Ramon; it needs a Barry Allen. But it sure as hell needs a Belén Palayta too."

Azul smirked, impressed by what he was hearing.

~ 0 ~

A prison was never in the Christmas mood, but that didn't matter as Henry Allen walked into the visitor room to have, what he thought would be a simple Christmasy, conversation with his son. He plopped down on his chair and picked up the wall phone. "Merry Christmas, Slugger."

Barry gave a sad smile in return. "Merry Christmas.

It didn't take so much as a minute for Henry to see that something was completely wrong with his son. "You all right, Barry?"

"I screwed up, dad," Barry put it to the very shortest of answers. "After years of searching... I finally found him. I found the man who killed mom…" Henry froze on his spot, but let Barry continue. "The man in yellow, the one in the lightning. He's out there, and I had him. He got away. I... I was so close. I promised you that I would get you out of here." Barry's eyes quickly filled with a rush of tears that were, in vain, kept in. "Every day you spend in here has been because of him... Until today. Now you're in here because of me, and I'm so sorry." No longer able to help himself, he broke down.

"I... Barry. Barry, this is not your fault," Henry was at a loss of words for a moment but reaffirmed himself for his son. "Look at me." Sheepishly, Barry did, but the tears continued rolling down his cheeks. "I know what you've given up. Every decision you've made in the past 14 years has been because of me and your mom... what you studied, why you became a CSI. There are so many things you have never pursued because you were too consumed with what happened to me and your mom to let yourself have a life. Well, let it go now, Barry. Hear me now. The man in the yellow suit...has taken enough from us already. Don't let him take any more."

"But-"

"No," Henry repeated himself. "I want you to go home, and to celebrate Christmas with your friends. Understand me?"

Barry sniffed and rubbed away some tears with the back of his hand. "Believe me, it's not a very cheerful Christmas anyways."

"You can't focus on that man in-"

"It's hard when he's murdered one of your friend's fathers as well."

Henry's mouth opened but no words came out. He opened and closed it several times but still there was nothing to say.

"He's back in town, Dad, I told you," Barry repeated, pushing his chair further in. "And he's...he's looking for something. In doing so, he murdered my friend's father a couple days ago. The funeral was today, actually."

"Poor girl," was all Henry could say.

"This adds onto the reasons of finding that man and putting him away," Barry gritted his teeth. "He's a murderer, and he has to be stopped."

Henry sighed, of course there was no stopping Barry from fervently looking for that wretched man.

~ 0 ~

It was growing dark out, yet Belén remained at the graveyard...with Azul.. Her heart had ceased to beat rapidly as her fear subsided. The green from her skin had vanished she was sure. She was nowhere near comfortable yet, but she figured she wasn't in any immediate danger considering they'd been going back and forth with words and explanations. She finally understood: he would not bring her against her will. That was her only advantage and she wasn't going to waste it.

"So, mind telling me why you know where my brother is?" she had mastered masking fear with professionalism. She was acting as if she was conducting any other interview for an article.

"Because he is not the same anymore."

Tilting her head, Belén considered all possible meanings for this statement. However, someone else spoke up, and it left her drained of color.

A woman in clad purple, wearing a mask that covered half her face, was walking up towards them, using a modulated voice like Azul. "I'm surprised she hasn't hit you yet, Azul. I would have."

Belén whirled around, flinging her ombre hair with her. "You! You're working...you're working with her!?"

Azul groaned in annoyance. "I was working on something, Plasticine, but thanks."

Plasticine displayed an open smirk. "You were taking too long. Honestly, if this is how you do your day job, it's a real shocker how you're not fired."

"This was all a mistake, a big mistake," Belén muttered, her heart beginning to retake that speedy beating.

"On the contrary," Plasticine's smirk vanished into thin air, her voice lowering into that which made Belén fear for herself even more, "It's good we finally meet on good terms. You are exactly where you ought to be."

"I need to be far away from you! You...you almost tried to kill me, don't you remember that? Scared me half to death!"

"Oh, so we only remember that bad parts eh?" Plasticine exchanged a look with Azul then laid eyes on her again. "But how about a 'thank you' for killing your ex? Do I not get to a redemption card for helping you get home safely?"

"What are you talking about?" Belén frowned.

"That I was there on the night you were rescued from your kidnapper, Belén. I was there to help save your ass, along with the Flash's. I got that kidnapper and I killed him. And if you don't believe me, then go and ask the Flash. I'd like to see him lie straight to your face."

Belén was 100% sure that Barry never mentioned anything about Plasticine being there. Then again, the only time they spoke about that incident was minutes after she'd woken up in the hospital...but she'd been drugged on meds so she couldn't remember anything from that moment.

Plasticine gave a short laugh and moved up, only to have Belén instinctively retract that same step back. Plasticine raised her hands, showing her appearance of good terms. "I'm only here to help. Whatever you may think of me, of Azul, you should put it away until after you hear our sides of the story. We're all victims of the Particle Accelerator blast. As was your brother."

"So you know where my brother is too?" Belén rolled her eyes. "I figured that much from the last time we spoke - sorry, you threatened me. What I can't help wonder right now is why all of a sudden you're talking to me. Where is my brother?"

Plasticine pursed her lips, looking like she'd been challenged. "Your brother's car was found just a couple blocks from his university, in which he left everything but his laptop. That laptop was an had dark blue colors with a couple of stupid engineering motto stickers on the right side. When you open it you will find the letters 'A', 'Y', and 'J' scratched off from use."

If possible, more of Belén's color had been drained from her face. Her eyes were glistening with the tears she thought had already been wasted.

"I think we can both agree that this was, indeed, Rayan Palayta's laptop," Plasticine finished in such a casual tone. "Now, if you're willing to listen - as it is is getting darker out and it's Christmas - I should like to get this moving along. Will you listen?"

"Y-yes," Belén managed to sputter.

"Now you always think he was involved in an accident but the truth was he was taken, kidnapped."

"But no one ever called in for a ransom…"

"Who said they were looking for a ransom?" Plasticine made a face. "Kidnapping doesn't always happen for a ransom. Your brother was taken for other reasons."

"How do you know all this?" Belén tried not to sound as desperate as she really was. She was tired of so much obscurity.

"Because he told me," Plasticine answered coldly/ "He had something that a band of robbers wanted."

"But what?" Belén looked between the two, demanding to know. "What the hell could they have wanted from-" she stopped midway.

'Because he is not the same anymore'

Belén's head snapped to Plasticine, her body completely freezing. "Rayan...is a metahuman…"

~ 0 ~

In S.T.A.R. Labs, everything was ready to go to catch the famous man in yellow. Joe and Eddie, who had come after a terse conversation with Joe, along with the newest Anti-Flash task force, were set in place down in the 'trap room'. A trap had been set for the man in yellow and would hopefully keep him barred inside. In the cortex room, Caitlin, Cisco and Dr. Wells were attentively watching the security cameras from their computers.

"Okay. Sending out another pulse," Cisco announced before doing so.

"Are you certain this trap will work?" Joe's voice rang from the speakers.

"I've sent up at least three charges into open satellite. if anyone's looking tachyonic particles, they'll know we got them."

They stared for another couple of minutes and then suddenly there was a blur...and the man in yellow was trapped inside the barrier.

"Let's see what we caught," Wells looked at his employees with a wide smile.

~ 0 ~

"Rayan's a metahuman! He's a metahuman!" Belén paced back and forth. "He's got to be! That's what you meant didn't you?" she stopped to violently point at Azul. "My brother's a metahuman and that's what you meant!"

"Your brother is alive," Azul smiled, and for a second Belén thought it was an honest one.

"But why why didn't he come to me?" Belén walked up to Plasticine, her hands balled into fists.

"It's complex," Plasticine said kindly. "You wouldn't understand-"

"Try me!"

"I can't, because your associations are completely wrong."

"Again with that!" Belén thrust her hands up and stormed away. "What in the hell does that mean?" Plasticine exchanged looks with Azul. Belén put her arms down, her eyes looking over one then another. "Why would he...know you?" she whispered, but the answer she was already assuming made her stomach churn with dread.

~ 0 ~

"Cisco, lights," Dr. Wells ordered the moment he and the other officers spread across the trap room. From the cortex, Cisco flicked on the lights to reveal the vibrating body of the man in yellow. "Detective Thawne, would you like to read him his rights?"

Eddie was taking up a spot, his eyes glued to the mysterious man ahead. He saw Joe getting closer to the barrier. "Joe, what are you doing?"

"Getting some answers," Joe said quietly before addressing the prisoner. "14 years ago, you murdered Nora Allen. I want to know why. Why?"

Reverse Flash ignored him as he walked up to the wall of his new prison. "Dr. Wells, we meet at last," he spoke with his modulated voice.

"What do you want with the tachyonic particles?" Wells, in turn, ignored that and starred with business.

"My goals are beyond your understanding."

"Oh, I don't know, I'm a pretty smart guy. I knew you were exceptionally fast, so any trap we manufactured would have to be invisible. I knew your cells could repair themselves at extraordinary speeds, so you could withstand the damage this is doing to your body right now. The reason I know all this is because your powers are almost exactly like those of The Flash."

Perhaps if his figure had been clear, there would have been a smirk across his mouth. "Oh, I'm not like The Flash at all. Some would say I'm the reverse."

~ 0 ~

Belén was near tears again. "Why has my brother not come home? Why has he chosen you-" she gestured to both Plasticine and Azul "-as company? A murderer and a...well, I'm sure you're no good either."

Azul scoffed in return. "Your brother sees things how they truly are. We were not born this way, someone made us like this."

Belén's lips thinned as she suppressed the urge to cry. "You're evil...as are you…" she glanced at Plasticine. "It only leaves so much to think about."

"Do not insult me when you have no idea what I've gone through," Plasticine snapped, sounding close to tears herself. "You should know what it is losing people you love. We were happy in our own lives and then some stupid machine turned us into this!" She raised both her arms and for a second both her hands turned into a purple blob of mass. "You think this is how I wanted to live?"

"But you don't have to live like this," Belén said matter-of-factly. "Look at the Flash. He's using his powers to help people-"

"Why would we help people who so easily turn backs on our kind?" Azul demanded, looking angry. "They call us many things like we asked to be turned into this."

"You're both hurt, obviously, but if you would allow S.T.A.R Labs to help you…"

"We don't want their help!" Plasticine shouted. "If anything, S.T.A.R Labs needs to be brought down."

"Don't say that-"

"They made me like this. They broke my family," Plasticine's voice shook. "Why would I ever let them help me?"

Belén stared with fresh tears rolling down her cheeks. "Tell me my brother doesn't think that too," she whispered.

"See, this is why he needed to come," Azul spoke to Plasticine as if Belén wasn't standing in their presence. "We're just making him look bad."

"There is nothing wrong with Rayan," snapped Plasticine before facing Belén again. "He was stopped and kidnapped by thieves who thought they could use his powers for their own crimes. They kept him as a prisoner, barely fed, and in such awful living conditions. Months he spent living worse than a rat would. He wasn't even allowed one measly phone call just to tell his family he was fine. He didn't even want to escape anymore, he was willing to bargain writing a little text while being monitored. But those thieves wanted nothing more than his brains. So they used him, and used him, and used him. He had done nothing wrong and yet these people felt entitled to use his powers for their own special needs. So one day, he cracked. Blame him, I dare you."

Belén stared with shiny eyes.

Plasticine's ferocity died as she glanced towards Azul. "We should go. Belén has much to think about." Belén felt like a child under her tensed look. "You are being watched by your brother, and he wishes nothing more than to see you again. Come to the right side. Your family awaits."

Belén was confused, overly confused...and terribly angry. She didn't care what Plasticine nor Azul were doing afterwards. She ran away from them, as fast as she could.

~ 0 ~

The barrier holding the Reverse Flash faltered and out of the blue he had sped out, grabbed Dr. Wells, and threw him into the barrier. He sped back inside and proceeded to punch, kick, and repeatedly throw Wells all around.

"Cisco, turn off the barrier!" Joe shouted and backtracked to one of the tool tables.

"If I turn it off, that thing's gonna get out!" Cisco's panicked voice responded via the speakers.

Joe grabbed a large silver wrench from a table and headed for the controls of the barrier. "Cisco, he's gonna kill Wells!" He smashed the machine over and over till the barrier was turned off.

The man in yellow sped off leaving a bloody, beaten Wells on the floor.

"Find him!" Eddie ordered the other policemen. There was only a minute to spare before the man reappeared. Eddie brought his gun up, albeit shaking a little. "Don't move, or we will shoot."

Reverse Flash sped through the officers, killing them within seconds. He came face to face with Eddie but then shoved him to the side and went for Joe.

He pinned him against the broken machine control. "I warned you not to hunt me."

Barry, as the Flash, sped in and took the man with him out of the building. Seeing them through the security feed outside, Cisco and Caitlin rushed out as well. They came out in time to see Barry been thrown straight into a car's front window. The Reverse Flash grabbed him so easily and resumed fighting in the parking lot. As much as Barry tried he could not get much punches through. The Reverse Flash gave a last punch that stumbled Barry back. He seized Barry's wrist, producing a proper 'crack!' as he broke the wrist, and kicked him hard. Barry fell on his back on the ground. The Reverse Flash walked forwards, with the intention of finishing the fight already. However, a few inches from Barry, he was engulfed by a burst flames. With the force he was pushed to the ground, unable yet to see Ronnie Raymond coming.

When the flames finished, the Reverse Flash picked himself up. "Our race is not yet done. See you soon, Flash." He sped off.

Cisco ran to help Barry while Caitlin rushed to meet Ronnie. Ronnie grunted and stepped away from her. "Don't look for me again." His flames encased him and he used them to fly off, leaving the chaotic scene behind.

~ 0 ~

Dr. Wells was now being treated for his wounds and cuts by Caitlin. Cisco stood off to the side looking through all information about their barrier.

"I've been going over the data, and I still don't know why the containment system failed. I must have missed something. I'm sorry."

"It's not your fault, Cisco. But if you both feel the need to apologize for something, you might start with the not telling me that Ronnie is still alive." Wells gave hard looks at both of them.

"I asked Cisco not to say anything," Caitlin immediately explained so that Cisco wouldn't get any scoldings. "Once I saw what Ronnie had become, I needed... I needed time to see if I could make him whole again. I'm sorry. I know you're mad."

"No. I don't know what I would have done differently in your situation. I know I have made you a lot of promises. I know I've not been able to keep them all. But on my life, I promise you this... We will bring Ronnie home."

Caitlin smiled softly, feeling a little more relaxed now that there would be a better conducted search for her fiancée.

~ 0 ~

When Joe finished messy paperwork with Eddie, he went upstairs to see how Barry was doing. The young metahuman was sitting on a chair holding a snow globe of the London tower.

"Hey, Bare…"

"You know my mom traveled around the world twice?" Barry asked without yet looking up. "She spent a semester abroad in Spain, and she loved it so much that after she graduated, she went to Europe. Didn't stop till she'd been to a few dozen other cities. She always wanted to go back, but she never got a chance."

Joe pulled up a stool and sat in front of him. "I offered to send you abroad when you were in college."

"Yeah, I know. I remember. I... I couldn't take off. I mean, the truth is I'm stuck here... in Central City," Barry admitted freely, his father's words coming back to mind. "Fear has kept me in that living room for 14 years. Joe, I... I was mad at you for being scared. But I mean, the truth is I was the one that was scared. I've been afraid of the man in yellow for my whole life. That's why I lost."

"When you first moved in with us, I thought it was gonna be too much. I'm already a single dad. Finances were tough. And you were a little boy who just lost his mother. But, man, was I wrong." Joe laughed to himself. "Within two weeks, you had changed the whole dynamic of the house. Suddenly, the house was filled with this...light..this energy. I mean, you brightened up everything. You'd seen more darkness than any man will in a lifetime, and you never let it dim your soul. So there I was, thinking that I'm changing your life by taking you in, but...the truth is...you changed mine. So don't lose that light now, Bare. The world may need The Flash, but... I need my Barry Allen."

By that time they both had tears in their eyes, and the only thing left was to hug each other.

"Let's go home," Joe gestured the way out.

"Yeah," Barry nodded, following him out.

~ 0 ~

Coming home to the West residence and finding all your friends already there was certainly something Barry hadn't expected. Caitlin stood up from the couch to greet them.

"Hey!"

"Oh. Hey. What are you guys doing here?" Barry asked, looking past her to Iris - sitting on Eddie's lap - and Cisco on the phone.

"I invited them," Joe explained and dropped his jacket on the table. "Where's Dr. Wells and Belén?"

"Uh..." Caitlin glanced back at Cisco who was re-dialing by the looks of it. "Dr. Wells wasn't feeling up to a social gathering, but he appreciated the invitation. And," her voice lowered, "we can't really locate Belén. Cisco's been trying to call nonstop."

"She left her house earlier in the day," Iris said, still feeling guilty she hadn't been much help to her friend. "I don't think she's in a mood for celebration."

Barry frowned and looked towards Cisco who was looking more irritated by the second. He realized too that he had not seen Belén since the funeral...early in the morning. Caitlin's previous warning then flashed through his mind.

What if Belén had done the same thing she done months ago and left without saying a word? For some reason, he panicked.

~ 0 ~

Belén swiped off a whole set of decorations off a table and dumped them into a box. She then pulled on the lights of the Christmas tree enough to tear it down to the floor. With loud sniffles, she walked up to the front window and seized the ends of the green wreaths. With all her might she pulled them down, causing part of the curtain holder to come down with it. She brought all of that into the same box.

The knocking on the front door did nothing to stop her.

She began to take down the next set of Christmas lights adorning the windows and let it all fall into the box. Spotting the wooden nutcracker on the shelf of a bookcase she crossed the living room and threw it into the box.

The knocking on her front door became incessant.

Belén exasperatedly groaned, glaring a minute at the door but essentially letting it go. She felt her insides burning with anger when she remembered everything she'd learned today. It was not easier to face her father's reminders when she knew now how bad her brother had fallen.

She spotted the blinking Christmas angels sitting in a perfect row and stalked towards them. She picked one up and stared at it for a long minute. It was a terribly-made angel by none other than Rayan. She remembered how long he'd worked on it and how badly she laughed at it when they were younger. It had gone up every Christmas as a homage to one of his early creations.

Newfound anger crashed over her like a wave.

She suddenly threw the angel across the room, letting it smash to pieces against the wall.

Without much thinking, she grabbed the next angel and threw it in the same direction. However, it didn't make it to its destination because Barry had caught it. Belén wasn't even surprised he'd just sped right in.

"Go home," she muttered and turned her back on him. She continued dumping in the rest of the angels into the box.

"What are you doing?" Barry took notice of the living room's state. Half of the Christmas decorations were already packed and it didn't look like she would be stopping.

"It doesn't matter, go home," Belén repeated, sharper.

"Cisco says he's been trying to call you for hours now-"

"My phone's off-"

"Cisco said that. Want to explain why?"

"No, clearly."

There was a pause and Barry sighed, lowering the star in his hand. "I see you've been moving in the grief cycle...again..."

"Shut up," Belén said, sounding like she was imploring him so. Her eyes were squeezed shut and her hands had found her temples again. "Please, just go home. Tell everyone I'm sorry but I can't…"

"I'm not going anywhere until you tell me where've you been all day," Barry put the star down on a table and, for effect, loudly positioned himself behind the couch, clearly waiting for her to turn around and talk. "I've got all night, so…"

Belén slowly lowered her hands, and glanced over her shoulder. "Finding out the truth," she uttered in a low voice.

"Come again?"

"I've been finding out the truth about my dear brother."

There was a strange feeling that told Barry he was going to regret asking for further details, but he ignored them. "H-how did you…"

"I've been with Plasticine and Azul. We talked all afternoon and...and they told me more or less what I apparently needed to learn."

Yup, Barry regretted it.

"Are you mad!?" he exclaimed. "How could you have put yourself in such a dangerous situation!? Belén we went over this for God's sake!"

"I DON'T CARE!" Belén turned around, her face streaming with fresh new tears. "They offered me the truth I've been so desperately looking for!"

"They took advantage of your pain to feed you lies!"

"Plasticine knows my brother, and well, by the looks of it. I don't know what relationship they have but they know each other, and they're in contact. Don't stand there and give me that look," she scowled. "You would do anything to make justice for what happened to your mother, why shouldn't I do the same for my brother and father?"

Although earnestly upset with her, Barry had no words that would defend him. Of course he would want to do anything to capture the Reverse Flash - hell, he wanted to do that today and he failed. He couldn't blame Belén for doing the same thing, no matter how angry it made him feel knowing those two had taken advantage of her. Because that's exactly why they'd chosen this moment to appear before her. There was no other explanation.

Belén looked away from him. "I'm fine, alright? They didn't harm me - they don't want to."

"Yeah, but you can't be sure of that," Barry shook his head.

"I am," Belén reaffirmed, her eyes snapping on him. "I don't understand what they want from me exactly, but they want me to come willingly."

"Or they're just tricking you-"

"It doesn't matter! They told me what happened with Rayan, how he was taken by a band of thieves because he's…" the lump in her throat forced her to stop mid-sentence.

"He's what?" Barry asked, assuming the worst.

"A-a...metahuman," Belén sputtered out, having to cover her mouth soon after. "And I'm so scared of what's he's been doing all this time…"

The news was quite a shocker that Barry had to stand there a moment and replay it several times just to be sure he'd heard right. Of course, Belén's sobs was a huge voucher that he had heard right.

"He was tortured, and abused for his abilities…" Belén sat herself down on the couch, "And no one helped him. Now he's a metahuman and...and he's doing all the wrong things."

"We don't know that, so put away those thoughts," Barry had recomposed himself for her sake and hurried to her side. "If he's a metahuman then he's probably scared, unable to understand what's happened-"

"No," Belén sniffed. "Rayan can be anything you want but he's not stupid - he was a full blown genius, my opposite actually."

"Bells," Barry tilted his head at her, meaning to gently scold her.

"He was smart okay," Belén amended her fault and sighed, wiping away some tears off her cheeks. "He understands that he has powers, and that he can use them. It's just how he's been using them that scares me. My Dad did not raise us for him to become an evil metahuman. He had good values that he instilled in both of us."

Barry glanced at the disastrous living room, slowly understanding its purpose. "You think your brother's new act reflects how your father raised you?"

"After my parents divorced Rayan and I were still under age, and my Dad took full custody of us. My mother, being a policewoman, said she couldn't handle both of us as teens but my Dad didn't care what he worked at. He was there, always. As we got older, my Dad started leaving Rayan and I home alone more often but he was always sure that he had provided us with the best of values to ensure we would be fine on our own. Well, my brother's out there alone and he's not proving himself to be my father's son. It's been up to me and I haven't brought him in to rehabilitate him? What kind of daughter does that make me?"

She sniffed and looked a crumbled bauble near the living room table. Barry stared at her a couple minutes, trying to understand how she could have come to this conclusion. But he really couldn't.

"I don't think your Dad would be happy to see you like this," he went in a different direction. "Because I'm sure that somewhere along your years, he taught you that what one sibling did was not your responsibility. Everyone is old enough now to make their choices. You are not responsible for whatever Rayan has chosen to do."

"But he's my brother!"

"Yes, and the only responsibility you have is to try and lead him into a good path - you can't force him, though. You can't feel like you've failed your father, that's not what he had wanted."

Belén shook her head, letting a couple more tears roll from her eyes. "Look, I...appreciate you coming and talking with me, but it's just too much right now. I can't keep it up."

"We can talk about it later," Barry beamed as he thought of an idea. "Everyone is at Joe's and Iris' right now - and there's more eggnog. How about we go by?"

Belén shook her head again. "No, I don't want to put anyone else down. It took me forever to send my Mom to her hotel. Thank God Maritza had already left when I came back because she's a hard one to fight."

"It's not exactly a celebration we're having, it's more of a pretty bittersweet Christmas," Barry made a face, something that confused Belén.

"What do you mean?"

"You know the trap we built for the, uh...Reverse Flash, I guess," Barry rolled his eyes at the stupid name, "It failed. And Dr. Wells was hurt, and the tachyons were stolen. He's still out there."

"Barry, I'm so sorry," she whispered.

"We're catching him one way or another," Barry made the vow. "But right now, I want to be with my family and friends. Please?"

Third time's the charm phrase went out the window when Belén refused again. "I think Christmas has become a taboo for me too now," she gestured to the living room's current state. "Right now, Mom is at her hotel working like any other day, and Maritza is back at her place doing the same thing, or sleeping. I know my Dad disliked Christmas too, and now with him gone...I can't…"

Barry's eyes flickered to the side as he thought of his last idea. With a sudden smirk at her, he zoomed out of the house. The wind left behind made Belén's hair blow behind her shoulders. He returned to his spot mere seconds after, wearing a wide grin across his lips. He held something behind his back.

"Where did you-"

"Close your eyes," he instructed.

"Barry, what's-"

"Just do it, please?"

With a small sigh, Belén obeyed and shut her eyes. She felt her hands being turned over and something being placed upon her palms. It was a box, that much she could tell.

"Open them," Barry said a moment later. When Belén did, she found an rectangular, blue gift with a silver, silk ribbon over the lid. "It's your present, and I'd like for you to open it right now."

"Presents," Belén whispered to herself. "I forgot to buy the presents…"

"It's fine, don't worry. Just open this one!" Barry insisted, and he looked far too much excited for Belén to deny.

Still mildly confused, she pulled off the lid to reveal two slips of paper. Looking at them closely, she saw they were tickets. "What's…?" she picked one up and read the title, her eyes widening instantly. "These are tickets for the Dream…"

"It's an aerial dance team that's doing a show in a couple weeks," Barry explained quickly, his smile faltering slightly due to her reaction. "I thought, you know, since you said you were once a dancer and that you miss it...maybe you would like to go to a show. You Dad actually helped me get these."

"My Dad helped you?" Belén's voice quivered with newfound emotions.

"He directed me to this one, actually, thought you would love it."

The exhalement from her lips made Barry fear that perhaps he hadn't done a good job in this present. She put the ticket back into the box along with its other companion and paused.

"Do you know why he directed you this precise team?"

"Um…"

"Because I always keep an eye out on the Dream - that's capital 'D' by the way," Belén said quietly. "This team, this one that you chose…" she began to smile, and suddenly everything felt better for Barry as he saw this, "...it's my old team, Barry. I used to dance with them."

Barry's eyes went wide, his mouth partially opening. "A-are you...are you ki…"

Belén's smile grew as she closed the box. "The Dream - I was their lead dancer. I loved everyone there, and my Dad was always at my shows, first row. He picked out the right team for you."

"It's a gift from both of us," Barry slowly recovered from the shocking news. "Actually, the reason I got two tickets was because I envisioned you two going and reliving happy moments."

Tears glistened in her eyes again, but this time Barry was sure they were happy tears. "I love this," she declared. "Thank you," she lunged forwards to give him a tight hug.

"Merry Christmas, Bells," Barry hugged her back. "I hope you're more open to coming back with me to the others?" Belén pulled away, looking at him reluctantly. "They're worried, and it's Christmas. No one should spend it alone."

"I…" Belén moved back to her spot, looking at the mess. "...can I have more eggnog?" she asked so innocently that Barry laughed.

"Yes, you can!"

Belén got up with a tight smile, still appearing mildly reluctant. "Okay, but...let me get a quick change. Don't go anywhere?"

"Wouldn't dream of it," Barry promised, and he watched her hurry to the staircase. Left alone he got up and took a good look at the mess Belén caused. He felt it deserved better. So, he began speeding around the place and re-organizing everything. When he heard footsteps coming down the staircase, he stopped and looked at his work all nicely finished.

"Wow," he heard Belén's amazed voice. "You cleaned up for me. Thank you."

"Oh you know, I think the house deserves some Christmas decorations," Barry turned to her, momentarily stunned by her change of looks.

If anyone looked at her now they could not have guessed that twenty minutes ago she'd been sobbing and throwing things around. Her knotted hair had been untangled and mildly curled. Her ragged funeral clothes had been exchanged for a thick, red crop sweater with a high neck, tucked underneath a leather black skirt. In red flats with black tights, she walked into the living room. Her lips were painted in a bright shade of red that showed off a pearly white teeth.

It was Barry's turn to be amazed. "W-wow…"

Belén laughed, trying to brush off her blush. "I'm ready."

"Yeah, you are," Barry quickly shook his head, sputtering an apology afterwards that had made Belén laugh again. "Let's just go," he resolved before he did something else stupid. He had barely reached for her when she gasped at something behind him.

Without saying a word, she reached past him and grabbed the Christmas tree star she'd left on the coffee table. Studying it a moment, she glanced at the tree and walked towards it. She raised both her arms and attempted to place it at the top of the tree herself. This was precisely why her father had always done it in place of her.

Barry saw the struggle and came after a moment. "May I?" he motioned his help. Belén gave him a nod and so he put an arm around her waist while the other went around her shoulders. He lifted her the enough amount for her to be able to put the star over the tree.

Afterwards, she went to the electricity outlet and plugged in the Christmas tree lights, causing the star to flash a brilliant white. Stepping back to look at it, she breathed in shakily, feeling a wave of tears rushing up to her eyes.

"Merry Christmas, Daddy," she whispered with the littlest of smiles, but a genuine nonetheless.

[pantherlover]

Rosemary and Rue Re-Read: Part 7

Here’s part 7!  As always: possible spoilers up to Night and Silence!

Chapter 13

[Quentin] paused before asking, “Have I given you some offense?”

“No, you haven’t,” I said.  “You’ve been more than correct.  I just wanted to be able to tell the Duke what a good job you’re doing.”

Quentin straightened, too surprised to mask the pleased smile on his face.  “I... that is appreciated, milady.”

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Okay, if you haven’t read Quentin’s short story Full of Briars, you probably don’t know what the Keysmash of Feelings is for.  (Sidenote: if you have the chance, you should definitely read it, it’s so good)

In the story, Quentin talks about how he didn’t want to go into blind fosterage, and how he tried very hard to convince his parents to let him stay at home.  When that didn’t work, he decided that he was going to be The Best Page Ever so that the people that ran the knowe would be so impressed that they’d tell his parents, and then they’d regret sending him away and would bring him back immediately.

Unfortunately, Quentin’s blind fosterage was at Shadowed Hills... right in the middle of them recovering from their Duke Going Mad for 12 years.  Even if Shadowed Hills had been the type of court to place a lot of importance on that kind of protocol, they would not have been in a position to notice a brand new page, Crowned Prince or no.

That means that it’s very possible that the first person to actually pay attention to him/tell him he was doing a god job... was Toby.

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And then!  She reassures him that he’ll make his parents proud!!  And it means enough to him that he shares some of his real feelings with her!!!

Quentin’s confusion at Toby’s warning that he’s not invincible is sweet, and a little sad.  Don’t worry, honey.  You’ll understand what she means soon enough.

First Etienne mention!  Poor Etienne.  Everyone makes fun of him just for wanting to follow protocol (I say this as a person who is 100% Etienne)

That it’s our right and our duty to rule Faerie in the absence of our King and Queens, because the lesser elements need to be kept under control.  I wonder where Quentin learned that line.  His parents wouldn’t have taught him that, and the wording feels too specific to just have been learnt through osmosis from the general Court.

Can you imagine Toby’s speech about respecting Sylvester because of his actions, not his title was like from Quentin’s point of view?  This weird, rude changeling woman - who he’s not even supposed to like - is not only one of the only people to acknowledge his work since coming to Shadowed Hills, but she also flat out tells him ‘No.  You being pureblood does not immediately earn my respect.  Show me who you are first.’  It’s probably the first time in his life anyone’s told him that, and damn did it make an impression on him.

AND THEN she offers to hang out with him!  And treat him like he’s a normal kid!! asdfjaslkdfjlasdjfa I love them so muuuuuuuch

There is some history between Devin and Sylvester that I would love to find out about.  Is it only about Toby, or did they have personal beef beyond that?

Whenever Toby mentions Sylvester’s time as a Hero, it kind of makes me want a quest where they team up, except I’m sure that it would somehow end up with even more blood and chaos than a quest with just Toby on it.

I kind of wondered why Toby went to Shadowed Hills and immediately accepted help, when the reason that she went Home first was so that she wouldn’t have to get help from Sylvester.  Was that just because she thought he wouldn’t be willing to help her?  Or maybe finding the hope chest made her go ‘Welp, gonna take any help I can get!’  Out-of-story reason was probably so that Toby would have some kind of help, since I doubt that Devin’s helping her find... himself...

I’m really interested in how illusions work in this series.  Normally, I’d think that an illusion would hide Toby’s more fae characteristics, but they would still be there.  Like, Toby would look like she didn’t have pointy ears, but if you actually touched them you’d feel that they were still pointy.  However, whenever Toby wants to see if her illusions are still in place, she’ll actually touch her ears and feel that they’re round.  I would’ve considered that more shape shifting than an illusion, but maybe it’s an illusion because she’s constantly forcing them to be round?  Like, a Cait Sidhe doesn’t lose their shape if they run out of energy, but if a Daoine Sidhe does, then whatever they were hiding is shown?

Whyyyyy does Toby ever plan for breaks or ‘smooth rides’?  I know she’s kinda new to the ‘quest’ thing, but I think she should be a little more genre savvy than that!

I’m sure it’s written somewhere, probably in Fate’s day planner: “October Daye is never to be given enough time to actually think about what she’s going to do next.”  Honestly, that would explain a lot about her life.

Chapter Fourteen

I really like Toby’s ‘deal with assassin now, freak out later’ attitude.  My favourite protagonists are usually the ones who are like ‘Ohhh, I’m gonna cry really hard over this later, but right now I have to Deal With Shit.’

And of course Toby’s plan is to go ‘What’s the craziest, most illogical solution that could potentially hurt me as much as my attacker?  I’m gonna pick that one.’  So many of Toby’s enemies underestimate her because they think she’d be reasonable.

Here come the iron bullets!  Has Toby been injured with an iron weapon since her blood shifted to be more fae?  She was put in the False Queen’s iron prison, but that’s not quite the same thing.  That might be the only injury she’d get now that would be worse than when she was mostly human.

That is an alarmingly apathetic bus driver.  I mean, he asked her if she needed a doctor when she was getting off the bus - but I feel like that question should have come earlier?  And should’ve stopped being a question by the time she staggered off the bus?

Toby smells incense, and that’s what calls her to Lily’s Tea Gardens.  Is that Lily’s magic?  Or did something else cause that?

This is the second time that Toby mentions that she’d rather trust herself to Blind Michael.  I wonder if that’s a sort of saying in Faerie?  And I wonder how much she very much regrets ever using it after she actually meets Blind Michael.

And here we meet Marsha!  I love Marsha; I hope she’ll play a bigger part in a book soon.

I’m kind of sad that Toby doesn’t go to Golden Gate Park anymore.  I know she went there mostly for Lily, but it sounds like a really interesting political set-up.

That’s it for this part!  I apparently don’t have much to say during action oriented chapters.  But now I’m just over the halfway mark!  I’m hoping to finish this book before The Unkindest Tide comes out; we’ll see how I do.  As always, come talk to me about things!

[nukagalreacts]

For Anonymous who requested F04 companions who see Sole’s face for the first time and it’s badly scarred from their time in the military before the bombs dropped Part-One!

Here is part one of the react I hope you all enjoy it! And thank you as always for the request

X6-88: Sole had already told him about their weariness to have their mask off within the Institute because here everyone was so perfect, no flaws, not even the smallest of scars can be found on anyone’s skin. Will and Sole, they had to many scars to count covering most of their once perfect face, one of the many ill conceived memories from their time in the military they wore on the outside, forced to constantly confront the nightmares from a much darker time. X6 told them no one would dare to think of them differently or see these scars as some hideous fault, what mattered was the new leadership they provided here. He could understand the discomfort though and was happy to give Sole the option and suggestion of taking them to talk to the Institutes team of medical staff who could give Sole a new fresh face if they so desired. Sole could have cried at getting the chance to start over, it wasn’t that they were ashamed or thought they were ugly they just hated the memories the scars brought back and they wanted to wake up and not have horrible flashbacks every time they looked at their face. X6 was all too happy to stay beside Sole the whole time once they finally took the mask off and let the doctors evaluate them and go over what they would be doing, it was the happiest they had been in a long time.  

Cait: She was a bit weirded out by the fact she hadn’t seen Sole’s face once since they met in the combat zone, and at first it didn’t matter but it started to annoy Cait. When she questioned why they insisted on always wearing that blasted gas mask they noticed Sole seemed to grow uncomfortable and weirdly quiet. They told her there face was pretty messed up from fighting in the war before the bombs and they had been rather self conscious about it all their lives, even when they had been with their spouse they had always tried to cover up the scars with makeup. Cait feels a bit bad for her outburst and tells Sole they understand if they want to keep it on, but honestly no one in the wasteland is going to care everyone out here is fucked up one way or another. Sole agrees and decides to take the thing off and Cait can clearly see a huge mass of scars that clearly never healed correctly scattered all over their face. Cait assures them that the scars make them look badass and if anything they show that Sole is a survivor and can take on anything that comes their way.

Codsworth: He has always known how Sole goes to great lengths to cover up the scars they got while serving in the military and he doesn’t understand why they do it, because to him they are a badge of honor, a sign of the sacrifices they had to make. Sole was tired of people always staring at them though and being nosy or making assumptions about why they have these scars, so they hid behind a mask now and rarely took it off unless to eat or bathe. Codsworth constantly reassured Sole that there was no shame in the scars and they shouldn’t have to hide, and if anyone dared to say any words with ill intent towards them he wouldn't be afraid to take care of them for Sole. This boosted Sole’s confidence enough that they began to wear the mask less and less until they decided to never wear it again.    

Curie (synth): She was the one who asked Sole why they always kept their face covered the earliest, because she didn’t like not being able to see someone’s face. A face was what conveyed emotion and how Curie was use to reading people when she met them, and that had been hard to do when she first encountered Sole and she had asked about it not even 3 weeks later. Sole said there face use to freak people out in the world before the bombs, hell they even made a few kids cry when they looked at their face. They told her the story of how they had served in the military for years before the bombs dropped and on a mission gone wrong there face got pretty messed up and was covered in old scars. Curie gave Sole’s shoulder an affectionate squeeze and told them they never had to hide around her, and scars should never be anything to be ashamed of. When Sole took off the mask it was nice to have someone not flinch for once at how rough their face looked and say that they still looked nice and where a good person regardless of how others perceive them.

Danse: It made him a bit uneasy that he had never seen Sole’s face even when they first met he never got a glimpse of it. When they were out on a mission for the Brotherhood and his curiosity got the better of him he asked why they always had that mask on. Sole got really quiet and kinda slowed down the pace of their walking and looked over at Danse asking if he really wanted to know the answer. Danse frowned and asked if something bad happened to them in the past to make them think they had to hide away. Sole said yes it was actually, back when they were in the military before the bombs they hadn’t been careful enough and had been caught by the enemy and they had tortured them for information, eventually they had been rescued but there face had all but been ruined from the encounter. Danse said he was sorry but told Sole they were brave for never giving in to the enemy and doing their country proud, and such a sacrifice shouldn’t have them hiding behind a mask. Sole knew he was right and they were tired of hiding so they took it off ready for some horrible reaction from Danse, but when he looked at their face he didn’t see anything ugly about them, all he saw was a true soldier willing to do what others could not.

Deacon: He could tell that Sole used their gas mask the way he used all his disguises and face changes, to hide themselves away and make them unseen in a crowd. So at first he didn’t pry about it, but as time went on he couldn’t stop himself from trying to find out what Sole hid under that mask so when they were alone he found a way to bring up the subject. He could immediately see Sole was anxious to even think about talking about this, and he told them they didn’t have to and it was okay if they just forgot about him even asking. Sole trusted Deacon though and figured with how much they had been through and all the stuff he told them about his life they owed him the truth. Sole took off the mask not saying anything at first and just looking straight into Deacon’s eyes he kept so well hidden behind those sunglasses. Deacon just reached out a hand and gently touched the many scars that marred Soles face and they told him how this happened when they had been in the military. Deacon said this didn’t change anything about them that scars or no scars, they were still Sole and he cared about them because of who they were not because of how they looked, but he had to admit they looked hot scars in all.

Dogmeat: Sole never wore a mask around Dogmeat because they knew their four legged friend didn’t care what they looked like. Sometimes he caught Sole staring into a mirror for a little too long or fussing over the scars on their face and he hated seeing his master get upset over it! So he would always distract them by tugging on their jacket sleeve and barking for them to come and play with him, which usually got Sole’s mind off of it and made them happy again. Dogmeat also made sure to give Sole lot’s of good face kisses when ever he got the chance to remind them that he always loved them the most!       

Thanks y’all for reading and part 2 should be out tomorrow so stay tuned!

[fo4companionsreact]

Romanced companions + romanced nick and deacon reacting if sole gets kidnapped by raiders?

Cait - She freaks out, packs as many guns as she is able to and bursts into the raider camp shooting everything in sight, all the while desperately trying to find Sole. When she finally spots them, she finishes off the few raiders that haven’t died in her original killing spree and rushes up to them. She basically drags them to their feet and smothers them in an embrace, checking for any injuries.

Curie - Despite the fact she much rather avoids combat, she cannot help herself this time around. She is so angry and full of fear for Sole’s life, it catches her by surprise just how strongly she can emote. She gathers some of Sole’s other friends and sets off. When she finds Sole, she inspects them for any wounds, before she practically collapses on them, crying.

Danse - Red in anger, he rages into the camp by himself, executing every single raider that is foolish enough to get between him and Sole. Limp corpses of those junkies soon litter the ground and Danse makes his way through. Still in his power armour, he picks Sole up, bringing their lips together. “Please, never do this to me again,” he say between kisses.

Deacon - Despite the fact he’s feeling anything but calm, he plans his attack carefully, so that neither he, nor Sole would be in more danger than they already are. After he takes out every one of those pigs, he rushes to Sole’s side, his cool façade shattered. He fusses over them and only calms down after seeing they’re fine, proceeding to rest his forehead against theirs.

Hancock - He blames himself at first, because he could’ve surely done something to prevent this. However, Hancock quickly realises that such a way of thinking will not help Sole in any way and so he instead focuses on getting them out of this. For once, he is completely sober and he fights his way through the raiders as if they were small bugs. He then holds Sole close to him, whispering apologises to them.

MacCready - It’ll be a cold day in hell before he allows one more person he loves to be taken away from him. He doesn’t even feel the few bullets that graze his arms and torso, his only goal being ending those jerks and taking Sole back. After the very last raider gives out his final breath, MacCready unties Sole, who is a bit beaten up, but otherwise fine, and his arms hold them tighter than ever before.

Nick Valentine - Nick isn’t exactly proud of the fact he fired way more bullets than necessary, but his rage filled brain couldn’t really help it. It was an absolute bloodbath, but all Nick saw was Sole. Their look of reliefhit him like a tidal wave and he fell to the ground next to them, immediately hugging them close to him. “Thank god,” he started, voice weak, “thank god you’re okay…”

Piper - Tears started flowing down her cheeks, but she wasted no time in trying to think of the best course of action. Asking Nick, Codsworth and Preston to accompany her, she fought like she has never fought before. While the others made sure all of the raiders are dead, she rushed to Sole side, frantically examining them for any injuries, before hugging them tightly and thanking they were alright.

Preston - He couldn’t allow this. The Commonwalth couldn’t lose them, Preston couldn’t lose them. He’d rather die than live without Sole. A bit rash in his actions, he bursts into the raider camp by himself. Despite being awfully outnumbered, he slayed every single one of those assholes, arriving at Sole’s aid like a knight in shining armour. He couldn’t stop the tears escaping his eyes as he set them free and smothered them with kisses of relief.

X6-88 - A good tip: don’t ever make X6 angry. A better tip: don’t you ever try to harm Sole on X6′s watch. It was a very terrifying show to watch, the courser ended all the raiders in the most painful way possible. Even Sole had to close their eyes, but they still were filled with euphoria as X6 freed them. A little dizzy from the punches that were laid at them, Sole basically collapsed into X6′s arms and he just held them, stroking their back.

Bonus!Gage - This was one of the times even Gage had to say ‘Fucking raiders’. What did these sons of bitches even thought?! It doesn’t really matter now, because Gage was sure to blow every single head that belonged to those sorry assholes. His path was now littered by dead bodies, but all he was thinking about was Sole. He literally lifted them up into his arms, making them gasp and close their own arms around his neck. The whole way to the nearest doc Gage would promise Sole he’d never let this happen again, kissing them everywhere he could reach.

Now, I realise this one was a tad weaker, but bear with me, please. I still have 8 hours in work and I’m sure I’ll find some nice and fluffy request that will end up better :D

[fallout-drabbles-n-stuff]

If its not to much,maybe the companions reacting to after picking up the kremvahs tooth (i think thats how its spelled. That ritual machete thats all weird looking and is attached to like,supernatural eldritch stuff). The sol seems to randomly become possessed during a fight when using it and makes them a shrieking madman spouting dark incantations and stuff and sort of have a dark glow to them and when its done they go back to normal and dont remember it. Sorry if this is odd,i just love how there is a supernatural element to 4 and wish there was more to it.

(This is such a cool concept! Hope Headcanons suffice)

Cait:

•Refuses to believe that what is happening is actually..happening. Cait never really believed in the supernatural- but here it was, possessing her buddy and she could do nothing but watch.

•She reasonably becomes quite on edge. Eh..but so long as you're able to come back every time? She supposes it's alright.

Curie:

•Nevermind the fact that you're literally possessed- Curie is worried about how the affects of this.."ability" will harm you in the future. There's no way that whatever the hell that was could be any good for your head.

•Will gently admonish you to be rid of the blade, but will otherwise just tend to you when the spirit rests.

Danse:

•Probably the most terrified of the entire group.

•He has a hard time accepting that you're actually possessed- going as far as to accuse you of taking some kind of chem before truly choosing to understand what was happening. However..he knows. He was there in Dunwich right alongside you.

•Will do everything in his power to separate you and that damn blade. He takes your state as his responsibility and despite his near paraylzing fear, he makes a vow to get the real you back.

Deacon:

•Tris his best to just go with the flow in this scenario but..he just can't. Can anyone?

•At first he thought your new abilities were a definite bonus! And to some extent, they sort of are during battles..however whenever you start displaying more bestial traits, he can't ignore the fear he feels when he looks in your eyes. True, hair-raising fear.

•Might actually start avoiding you.

Gage:

•Would it be wrong of him to bow?

Hancock:

•Is strangely..cool with it? Yeah. I mean, come on..it is Hancock we're talking about. He has seen scarier shit with people reacting to Chems or being on them himself.

•Tries to just imagine that everything is fine as you cry out some freaky incantation with your hazy eyes wide, whilst decapitating someone. Yep. Everything is just peachy.

Macready:

•Fudge. No.

•Okay, this time Macready might actually cuss. He has no interest in the supernatural side of anything- the wastes were already screwed up enough. Your involvement with such forces will result in his departure almost immediately.

Maxson:

•Values your enhanced ability in the field..but is ultimately concerned for the safety of not only you, but those under your charge. The erratic screams, the undeniably different "aura" about you..it makes him both curios, yet oh so very put off.

•If he could, he would simply order you to surrender the blade. There was alas, no way for him to justify doing so. He couldn't make you give up a weapon just because he has a feeling it has something to do with your sudden shift.

Nick:

•After the whole invasion of Kellogg, he somewhat empathizes  with you. Of course, you are obviously not in as much control as him- but he isn't quite as spooked as the other companions because he understands.

•The incantations you spew though..they bother him deeply and he doesn't know why. He doesn't need sleep, but if he could sleep..he probably wouldn't because of how loudly your cursed words repeat in his mind nonstop.

Piper:

•Will probably throw salt at you.

Preston:

•He is beyond freaked out.  More than this, he is truly concerned for you. He could care less what was causing this "peculiar behavior", he is terrified of completely losing you one day to whatever the hell it is though.

•His blood congelas every time he hears the shrieks- the smell of carnage not slow to follow. To some extent, he becomes even more traumatized.

X6-88:

•Refuses to even acknowledge the supernatural influence besides occasionally asking if you "feel well".

•He knows something is messed up with you, but so long as it doesn't interfere with the person he knows away from battle- he doesn't right care.

•The ominous, dark "glow" you exude  does  however, make him uneasy.

[caitsbooks]

Cait’s Books Reviews: Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

Overall: 5/5 Stars Characters: 5/5 Setting: 5/5 Writing: 5/5 Plot and Themes: 5/5 Awesomeness Factor: 5/5 Review in a Nutshell: Crooked Kingdom is the epic finale you never could have imagined. It is enthralling, earthshaking, and electrifying. You can't miss this book.

“Sometimes, the only way to get justice is to take it for yourself.”

Blog || Goodreads || Bookstagram || Twitter  || Reviews 

// Content Warning: Violence, Death, Gun Violence, Sexual Assault (Sex trafficking, not shown), Drug Addiction, Abuse, PTSD, Genocide //

"Be the thing they all fear when they close their eyes at night.” 

- Premise -

Crooked Kingdom takes place after the events of Six of Crows, following everyone's favorite criminals as they seek justice and vengeance.

“No mourners, no funerals. Another way of saying good luck. But it was something more. A dark wink to the fact that there would be no expensive burials for people like them, no marble markers to remember their names, no wreaths of myrtle and rose.”

- Setting -

I love the world Leigh Bardugo has built. With every new novel, she adds so much depth to this fascinating fantasy world. There are so many intricate layers in Ketterdam alone that make this setting so interesting. I loved seeing more of the darker side of this world that Leigh created.

“Fear is a phoenix. You can watch it burn a thousand times and still it will return.”

- Writing -

I think it's been established that Leigh Bardugo is a goddess. Her writing style is beautiful, with gorgeous prose and elegant flow, plus a fair share of humor and levity to break up the dark story. You can tell how carefully she crafted sentences to create this atmosphere of this series.

“I don’t hold a grudge. I cradle it. I coddle it. I feed it fine cuts of meat and send it to the best schools. I nurture my grudges, Rollins.”

- Plot-

Crooked Kingdom doesn't waste any time throwing you into this world. It definitely starts off faster than Six of Crows did, and the plot itself is engrossing and captivating. I never wanted to put it down.

“'Has anyone noticed this whole city is looking for us, mad at us, or wants to kill us?' 'So?' said Kaz. 'Well, usually it's just half the city.'”

- Characters -

I love these characters with all of my heart. Our main group of criminals are so well-developed, with even more of their backstories being fleshed out and explained. Each of their arcs are fascinating to watch (especially Matthias. His development is so. freaking. good). There are even some cameos from characters from the original Grisha trilogy (but don't worry, you still don't need to know anything about that series to love this one). I loved seeing them all again!

“Suffering is like anything else. Live with it long enough, you learn to like the taste.”

- Conclusion -

Pros- The best characters ever, amazing plot, beautiful writing, and overall perfection Cons- This book made me cry in the middle of my philosophy lecture. Luckily, my professor didn't call me out. And before you say that I shouldn't have been reading during class-- start this book and tell me you wouldn't prefer reading it than learning about the ethics of euthanasia. Overall- 5/5 stars.  Crooked Kingdom will make you laugh, cry, and scream. This book cements this duology as one of the best YA fantasies I've ever read.

“I would have come for you. And if I couldn't walk, I'd crawl to you, and no matter how broken we were, we'd fight our way out together-knives drawn, pistols blazing. Because that's what we do. We never stop fighting.”