#i hoped against hope he would redeem himself with star wars

[doodler16]

"Charlie is just selfish and entitled."

I agree seeing how she manager the meeting with adam, valentino and angelic court.

Chalie doesn't know who is talking or topic of game and present her idea without permition and singing! I think primary student make more professional presentation! Plus I have project without prove! Who would believe tha?

Coming in porno studio without appointament, destroyed because she was distracting the people who were working! All fire/smolke make extra work for everyone, from clearners, actor ecc. Because does she call for professional appointament like an adult!

Acting as karen because angel pretty mush told her we don't judge human soul and we don't ascend them it is divine judgement do it.So it is like she speak bad about management with waiter who can only follower it. Yes because calling Divine judment doesn't hide it is ducking God! And until now in series God hasn't sent people in wrong place.

The funny thing I'm not believe and i hate how heaven is bashing in series because they don't want sinners who act like war criminal to their home! But they killed sinners! Well if hell was a real prison heaven wouldn't fear hell. In series itself human cannot touch demonic/angel stuff that mean if sinner attack Earth, they cannot defend themselves because they don't have weapon against them! I doubt you would like to become luch for alastor or next star of VVV!

Yeah, Charlie is selfish and entitled thanks to her privilege and status along with doing this whole redemption passion project. If Charlie was the average sinner, she would’ve been beaten up and exterminated by now.

1. Charlie is similar to Vivziepop and that has to do with being impulsive. Even in the pilot, Charlie has been shown to jump into a situation without actually knowing or doing any research. For example in the pilot: Charlie immediately goes into the new station to present her idea and plan, even Katie Killjoy calls out how Charlie doesn’t know if her passion project even work and even worse Angel’s involvement in the turf makes Charlie look stupid for obvious reasons.

With Charlie’s meeting with Adam it’s horrible because Adam being Adam talks about himself and even when he is done talking, Charlie for some reason over hypes him and never gets to the point about the topic, making the whole scene tiring and overstaying it’s welcome. So, when Adam says time is up, Charlie is forced to speedrun her information via song for like 30 seconds until Adam interrupts her so he can sing then kicks her out. Nothing productive happens on both sides.

2. The porn studio is Charlie’s worst moment yet in the show and as a writing standpoint. Even before that shitshow shows how entitled Charlie is. I get it what Charlie is going through, she has a 6 month deadline and very stressful. But at same time, that is what you get when you don’t research beforehand about your topic and don’t provide evidence. Angel has to leave because he has a job to do and Charlie desperately doesn’t want him to leave because they have a few months left. Charlie coming into the studio without any notice illustrates her privilege and status, she even says that how she is the princess of hell and can go wherever she pleases.

3. I would side with Heaven but Anon they have no idea what they are doing too 😭 Charlie’s performance however with the notecard and defining definitions shows how unprepared she is. And, conveniently the hotel now works.

4. They did Heaven dirty. But I have wonder if news travel that Sir Pentious is redeemed throughout Hell, would the sinners actually be interested to change or will they be acting in bad-faith and pretend. Like imagine another sinner gets into Heaven and wreaks havoc. Also Imagine you’re in heaven and you see your abuser there, that be crazy.

I hope the show addresses Charlie’s privilege/status, like that could be great conflict and good character reflection. Everyone can’t bend over backwards for Charlie especially if they have work to do.

[asharkapologist]

Fandom Opinion Chart + Explanations Under the Cut

I love Giulietta, it's as simple as that,,, her character growth from her selfish attitude towards her sister before the game, to trying to make her way into high society, to returning to her roots but finding love in a man supposed to be her enemy, to trying to stop the gang war that takes almost everything from her, to later leading a resistance against a dictator is incredible to watch. She's the real main character of Crimson Banks and Capital Peak idc. She endures so so much heartache, I cried both times I played In Love and War, that case genuinely makes me feel ill, and yet she manages to get back up because she's just that strong. I hope she was happy after the game ended.

On the other hand, I despise Jack. He makes several sexist comments throughout the game (I've half a mind to compile them to prove my point), and I have no idea how someone as immature and annoying as him managed to get a job in Interpol. His relationship drama with Asal is insufferable to sit through, and the way he constantly whines about her in South America and North America months after they broke up made me want to throw my phone, especially with the awful way he treats her after she's stabbed and almost died. And then in Travel in Time, he's just boring.

I initially didn't like Samson at first because he killed one of my favorite characters for a stupid reason (accompanied by a confusing message--how was Malcolm supposed to know Archie's death was targeted towards him?) but now I love him because his plan was so dumb and he's fun to meme on and he's REALLY hot.

Nebet is like my favorite main antagonist and it's so sad that she's gone for like two whole districts because even though I saw it coming, her betrayal HURT. Like 99% of s6's writing effort went into her, and she would have been a good antagonist even if she hadn't returned after killing her father, but the fact that she comes back and kills her younger self because she changed in exile makes her such an interesting character. I want to know so much about her, her thoughts while she was working with the team, and especially her epiphanies in exile, how she changed in exile and decided to turn against her parents and their goals. That's incredible fanfic material. She's also incredibly beautiful just LOOK AT HER.

Trevor Finn sucks. Fake af shark "expert" who probably just gave himself that title after watching Jaws but never bothered doing any research about sharks because he just spews misinformation and stereotypes about sharks that aren't true. For some reason, Pacific Bay really hated sharks. But other than that, there's not much else to mention about him, when with Jack I at least have stuff to complain about.

I realllly don't like Rozetta and do NOT think she was redeemed, even if Denise was a greater evil. I feel like people brush over the fact that she was KIDNAPPING AND TORTURING HOMELESS PEOPLE TO DEATH. She abducted who knows how many people and conducted horrific, torturous human experimentation on them that only one person (Zoe) survived, and nothing indicated she felt any remorse for those crimes, she only started fighting against Denise when Denise betrayed her and her friends. And even though Zoe escaped, Rozetta started the chain of events that led to Zoe's death. However, that being said, Rozetta is really, really pretty.

Archie is a millionaire and yet he dresses so drab. Lawson isn't as rich as Archie, and yet he dresses more fancy. Also Archie's collar looks weird and like his tie would be strangling him or something

I don't really talk about Penelope, but she (besides Nebet) is my favorite main character of s6! I relate to her a lot because we both like history and writing. I think we'd get along great talking to each other about story ideas, fangirling about fandoms, and talking about history.

Seamus x Giulietta is my favorite because Giulietta is my favorite character and I'm a sucker for tragic, star-crossed lovers. Got really emotionally attached to them even though I knew they wouldn't have a happy ending. Honorable mentions go to Arthur x Bernadine, Archie x Elisa, and Hope x Gwen.

Speaking of Hope x Gwen, they should have been canon instead of Gwen x Pierce. I hate this ship so much. Hope and Gwen had much more chemistry, and the FIRST DISTRICT in s7 proved why Gwen and Pierce wouldn't work out, and then out of nowhere Pierce shows up??? And gets back with Gwen randomly??? Huh??? And they have a kid??? Why. Hope was RIGHT THERE if you wanted someone to comfort Gwen after her mother's death and the complicated relationship she had with her.

I also don't talk about her as much as I should, but I love Priya! I love her character arc, her relationship with Zander is very sweet and well built up throughout the season, and her being a werewolf made her character arc all the more interesting. She's also just a very genuinely kind person, and I feel like she would have been a really good chemistry tutor when I was struggling with it in school lol

Given how annoyed I get with classmates and coworkers who are poor communicators, I would despise being around someone like Frank who's always late, drinking whenever he can, and who treats his female boss incredibly disrespectfully. Plus he eventually becomes a corrupt police officer and yeah, not a fan of those. Wouldn't want to be around one irl. He certainly needs professional help, but I am not the one to give it.

[hecckyeah]

hello I'm back to scream about the skywalker family again!!

LISTEN. LISTEN. Luke had no reason to be that forgiving. NONE. his father lied to him, abandoned him, actively tried to convert him to the very organization Luke gave his literal blood, sweat, and tears fighting against. realistically, LEIA is the normal one!!! she's disgusted by Vader. she's seen him up close and personal and knows exactly what he and the emperor are capable of, and she's right to be afraid and angry and furious and vengeful!!! BUT LUKE. comes in with his humble upbringing and his big blue eyes and his very being just the perfect mix of his mother's compassion and stubbornness and his father's grit and raw power that he's able to do what no living being ever had the ability to do, and he LOVES DARTH VADER. against all odds, against all reason, he walks straight up to this 6 foot 5 monstrosity. this hunk of metal with a raspy robotic voice and seemingly zero human emotion and he looks into those tinted eye holes and he says you are my father and you are NOT a lost cause and I will fight with my last dying breath to make you see the truth that I am your son and I love you and there is still hope for you, after twenty-three years of darkness and pain and suffering, I will personally show you what it means to LOVE and to see the LIGHT again. and the craziest part is? IT WORKS. and Anakin RESPONDS to his SON who he LOVES. and he redeems himself from all the years of war and slavery and pain and regret and agony, all because of this blue eyed boy who has Padme's courage and forgiving nature, and because his son didn't give up on him. and because Anakin finally sees that there IS still good in the world and he has a CHOICE and that there is still HOPE. after all these years, he has HOPE. his son gave him that. he didn't have to. in fact it would have been easier for Luke just to join the attack against death star 2.0 and call it a day but he believed in his dad!!!! he saw what Padme saw. he saw a broken, hurting man who he loved. who needed hope. who needed redemption. who needed his SON.

[zerohour1974]

Looking back at old stories

It’s strange I have been looking at some of my past writings which was on a very old CD now some of it is good, some is bad and some is just god damned awful it’s unbelievable.

For every semi decent idea there is a lot of awful stuff. Now I admit a lot of these were written when I was a younger man. Which can be a double-edged sword because for one I was willing to try writing styles I had never done for good or bad but equally some of it has the maturity of a complete idiot.

However one thing I can say is I did have some degree of creativity, which is a shame because its something I lack in my adult life. I really seem to lack any imagination when it comes to things nowadays.

The tragic thing about my writing is I take a lead character that normally is about as dimensional as a circle, yet their companion has a much more interesting story without trying as they actually have a modicum of personality.

I will give a few examples from my own stories…

Blades Edge – A Blade Runner universe story, which starts following Tjuana who lives in the Nevada desert with several escaped replicants helping them survive and escape. Half way through the opening chapter I introduce a character by the name of Kyle who we know is a replicant. Now I am sure you are now saying they both seem on a similar level.

However I’m the author and I know Kyle has a much deeper back-story than Tjuana who has the depth of an average puddle. Kyle is a Nexus replicant but unlike most of his contemporaries he knows he is and just wants it to end.

His life span is limited four years he has been told but because he has no desire to live the drugs designed to destroy him do not kick in. So he gets more and more twisted and bitter and goes in search of answers.

He discovers his lack of wanting to live is stopping him from dying. For the drugs to work you need to want to live beyond your life not embrace death. Making him kind of unique.

The story was to take him off into the desert, out there he realises without people to interact with, and his life has no meaning. He realises Tjuana was trying to get him to understand that. The idea was he would get back explain it to her and die in her arms after realising his life was worth living… Irony.

Where as I had no idea where I was taking Tjuana I was going to have her discover a new type of Nexus replicant but it was nowhere as deep as Kyle.

Ok so that one you say…

Second entry – Wavecatcher

One there is no reason it should be called that as the actual Wavecatcher ship which is the initial opening chapters disappears after two chapters or so never to be seen or heard of never again so its pointless calling it that.

Roger Fishman is pulled onto a spaceship while looking at a star from his window and is dropped off on a planet a bit later only to discover he was sent away to Earth many years ago as he has a kingdom to restore and rule. Yep I said not all of it was great.

One of his companions is Riverwind. He is a native Indian type companion so he has much more back-story and he is a trusted warrior and fighter with many battles to his name. I even had him a wolf companion called Shadow in a side story. He had lost his family to war and he had dedicated himself to right the wrongs done against him. He was spiritual and a warrior and actually had depth.

Roger on the other hand was just a throwaway character to get the story flowing even though he was your main character as he had zero depth, and to be honest I don’t think he really shows any redeeming qualities. However I think I was hoping to address that in Wavecatcher 2, which was never finished.

I also seem to like making my deeper character being some sort of problem.

Vampire Dawn - Yep VD not the best acronym for a book I know that now. As the name implies the main story is a local group of vampires are trying to create a day walking vampire using the underground levels of a mental hospital called the Derian Institute (Also in my Asylum story).

Now our lead was Rebecca Flint who was trying to seduce, cajole or get Dr Paul a leading gene research Professor to join the project. The story was not great and its pacing was all over the place.

However the guy claiming victims while in the first chapter doesn’t say much we discover he is Ashwin. He was a victim to a vampire woman and he has become the most reluctant vampire in existence.

He is not particularly fond of the taste of blood. He was the total opposite of the typical vampire. He was awkward, not great with social skills, considered quite normal looking, definitely not attractive and the institute were using him to get victims for experimentation.

Obviously this was why they used Ashwin because no one in a million years would suspect someone as dull as him. So it was nothing short of wonderfully ironic.

But once again Ashwin was interesting meanwhile Rebecca (Becky) was about as exciting as a wet Tuesday in Swindon.

Looking back at some of them, could some of them be saved? I’m sure they could. Will I ever do it? Probably not.

I just no longer have the creative angles I had when younger. It’s a shame as some did have potential. Could I have made something from these thousands of words of total waste of hard drive space?

As I have said before I have started many things but actually finishing anything I just don’t do that with my creative stuff.

The only set I finished was the Ways, which was a three-part story following Maya Di Martini who walks between dimensions weaving a path between worlds using gates. Part 1 I introduce the wolf Jade. Part 2 Maya loses Jade, but ultimately finds her at the end. Part 3 Maya returned home to see the family and settle down. I actually completed a trilogy

Then I lost a hard drive and Part 3 has now gone. I wrote Parts 1 and 2 many moons ago but it took me over 15 years before I finished Part 3. Then I lost it again as the file is gone.

I have been through all my archive discs and various CDs, DVDs and Hard Drives and nope the file no longer exists.

So for all I actually finished a story and I sent it to a few people not one person has got an actual copy of the full trilogy. Or if they have no one seems to be able to return it to me.

Irony is such an amazing thing…

[kindtobechurlish]

I haven’t had much to say lately, I have just been meditating on the moment to then come to think what I have to do. What do I have to do? I have to make my aura believable, I have to make my aura magical. Believable is creditable and creditable is believe. Magical is ‘(art of) a magus’. A magus was a member of a priestly caste of ancient Persia. Do you remember what the Greeks said of the Persians? They said it was like going to war against women, and in Persians you can see the Nazi’s considered Iranians as Aryan according to the Aryan Certificate. You need proof according to white people? Now, the mongoloid considers themselves as white because of gun powder and the crossbow. You wouldn’t believe it!

The warriors play in Oracle Arena, I’ll give you a picture, in 2006 and 2007 the Warriors were playing the Mavericks and the Mavericks were the number one seed as the Warriors were the number eight seed. The fans who went to the game had a slogan, “we believe.” The warriors had a mediocre start, just to finish the season on a 16-5 run - giving them a number eight seed. “We believe.” In the first round, the Warriors beat the Mavericks four to two, and the slogan was the slogan. Let’s ignore that the Warriors went off to play the Utah Jazz and they lost four games to one, but let’s focus on the run that manifested “we believe.” When the Warriors got the eighth seed, “we believe” was fed according to the drama with the Mavericks. The Warriors won, and there was hope against Utah. In the fact of Utah, Dallas’ Star, Dirk Nowitzki, looked bad just for him to redeem himself against LeBron and the Miami Heat. You see the picture of “we believe”, how a number one seed, the franchise, and star player look bad, and in it all you see the act of being redeemed.

I have to be better than the run of the warriors, as I didn’t have a mediocre start. I would see people with problems in healthcare, I make means to get riches and you see Donald Trump has no chance to win and Hillary Blithé is just a cheerleader. Some asshole loves to give signs he has been watching me, but when it comes down to doing right by me you see an asshole Fuckface keep a narrative of a pinhead.. proving political theater. Now, some woman doesn’t believe in my enablement - no matter what I say.

I have to make myself magical and creditable, my aura, now she sees me walk and her retinue don’t have the potential I have just to have a better job than me. I don’t want to become apart of her retinue, her retinue aren’t having anal sex with her, ready to do it so much they see if she wants to punch out shit against dick (nasty), so I don’t want to become her retinue as she feels important, “not tonight”, and I’m to sit around and make her say tonight. I have to come down and be better than her retinue, I have to utilize my finesse - use my work history - and get that position I want. I have interviews coming up, and by the interviews and finesse I need to blow her retinue out of the water. The issue is actually getting the “gig.” It’s one thing to get the interview, it’s another thing to get the gig. In this superficial culture, product sells itself and the more information you know about the product the more stable the sale, so I’m my field that I have history in.. a bunch of people are looking for someone they could get along with and make their work easier. Academy. So, in it, my dream woman, i don’t want to join her retinue! I want her to see I’m trying, and when God answers my prayers I get what I need!

[cowboyjimkirk]

so…what is it about jj abrams specifically that everyone hates? i’m not at all doubting that he’s problematic!! i just don’t pay much attention to celebrity names that i don’t absolutely have to know in order to function in basic social settings bc they’re just, like, ppl, and odds are, if they’re from hollywood, they’re gonna turn out to be disappointing one way or another

there isn’t a specific reason, but he gets blamed for everything wrong with Star Trek (2009) and Star Trek Into Darkness. which is perhaps a little simplistic because the writers (Robert Orci, Alex Kurtzman, and Damon Lindelof) deserve at least some of the blame. But Abrams did direct and produce both movies. Bad Robot is his production company and he seems to have been the main creative force behind aos.

Abrams wasn’t a Star Trek fan when he signed on to make the new movies. to my knowledge, he still isn’t. there is, if i remember correctly, an interview with Jon Stewart where he says that he always found Star Trek a little boring. from the very start, fans have found his action-driven, almost Star Wars-esque vision for Trek at odds with the tone and intentions of the original show. add in some sexism, casting a white guy to play Khan, and some questionable writing decisions, and well. fans just don’t like him.

while Abrams did produce Star Trek Beyond, he didn’t direct it---he was too busy with Star Wars at the time. Justin Lin helmed it, while Simon Pegg and Doug Jung did the screenwriting. and there’s a marked difference--less sexism, less general fuckboism, and more character development. it’s a lower stakes story that features some cool new alien friends and a lesson about teamwork and family. it feels more like Star Trek.

idk. i don’t really hate J.J. Abrams because i do love the 2009 movie despite its problems. but i also can’t forgive him for some of the creative choices he made.

[coltsbitch]

figure it out ~ colt grice x reader

colt grice x reader; 6.5k words; nsfw summary: colt is determined to proving himself in any test, even if that means figuring out why you were staring at him...?

masterlist

“I suppose congratulations are in order.” You smile when Colt jumps slightly at the sound of your voice.

“So, you heard?”

“Magath made sure to come tell the rest of us after you got pulled from training. Wanted to remind us we’re still scum, maybe even a little bit more so since we weren’t chosen.”

It probably wasn’t the best thing to say, you can already see Colt feels badly, as he rubs his neck, “I’m sorry. You know, the Cart and Armor titan successors will be selected soon enough.”

“It’s okay Colt, it was never in the cards for me. Not being in your class and all.” You shrug, giving him a sly smile thinking of how hard he’s been training these last few years, desperate to redeem his family’s betrayal to Marley. But you suppose that’s something the current Beast titan has in common.

“I wouldn’t give up hope yet.” He flashes you a grin that makes you feel weak in the knees.

But with being so dedicated to inheriting a titan, you know Colt has never so much strayed an eye off his goal. No use dwelling on those smiles he sends your way.

“Well, I’m sure with being selected you can finally ease up on the studying and training that’s consumed your life, if you wanted to go get a soda or something?”

You already know your answer when Colt’s face screws up in that apologetic look he gets, “I’m supposed to be meeting with War Chief Zeke.”

“Really not waiting a moment for this training to begin, huh? Is he going to tell you all the secrets to being a titan?” You tease, hoping your disappointment is masked in your voice.

Colt laughs slightly, “Not sure, but he told me to bring a catcher’s mitt.” He gestures to the leather in his hand.

Speak of the devil, you see the War Chief rounding the corner, “Colt.” He calls out, not bothering to come any closer.

“Well, don’t let me keep you.”

Colt looks over his shoulder, and then back of you, seeing what maybe your mind is wanting to be a flash of regret in his eyes, “Another time, okay?”

You smile and nod as you watch his retreating form. But another time will probably never come, just like it hasn’t every other time he made that promise. It’s pathetic the way you throw yourself after him, every other warrior candidate thinks the same thing. You’re not sure if the ignorance or the whispers hurt more.

Whispers that Colt definitely has never heard, too focused to give petty gossip the time of day. Which you’re thankful for, you’re not sure how you would handle Colt knowing about your massive infatuation with him. But with the way things are going, it’s likely he never will.

Kicking a rock and huffing to yourself you turn down the street to return to Liberio.

…

“Who’s the girl?”

It’s been almost three months since Colt was selected to inherit the Beast Titan. And while Colt knows there’s still over two years until his terms starts, he wonders if there will ever be anything more than playing catch with War Chief Zeke.

Colt throws the ball back, “What do you mean?”

Zeke just raises an eyebrow, his eyes drifting to the line of warrior candidates where you stand, clearly sneaking peaks at the two.

“Oh, her?” Colt drops his hand, his focus on you instead of the ball heading his way, “Ouf!” He groans, bending over trying to catch his breath from where the ball had knocked it out.

“Never take your eye off the target.” Zeke is standing before Colt, hand outstretched.

“Right.” Colt stands grabbing the War Chief’s hand, his eyes drifting to you, where now you’re openly watching, concern on your face. Colt sends a smile, more of a grimace, your way before following Zeke.

Zeke puts a cigarette between his lips, lighting the end. He takes a deep inhale, smoke wafting around Colt’s face, “You never answered.”

“Oh. She’s just a friend from my warrior class.”

“Watches you a lot.”

Colt doesn’t respond because he doesn’t know what Zeke means by that. You don’t watch him, at least, not more than you watch any other person. Right?

“You don’t notice?” Colt shakes his head, “Well figure it out.”

“Sir?” Colt cocks his head.

“Part of being a Titan Warrior is being strategic. Knowing what the enemy is thinking before it even crosses their mind.”

“I’d assume she’s still hurt she wasn’t selected to inherit your titan.”

Zeke lets out a mixture of a laugh and scoff, “I’ve never talked to the girl and I already know that’s wrong. Consider this your first test. Report back to me tomorrow.”

Colt nods eagerly at the thought of impressing the War Chief tomorrow, now he just needs to find you and get an explanation, even if he isn’t too convinced you were even looking at him in the first place.

…

Colt waits for you outside the gates of the training grounds. He watches as you and another warrior candidate come closer, the smile on your face is a pleasant sight. He likes when your eyes crinkle because of how wide your smile can get. But that’s not the point right now. He needs to focus on the task at hand.

“Colt!” You call out as soon as you spot him leaning against the wall, waving your arm wildly.

He waves back as you split off from your friend.

“I feel like I haven’t seen you in forever.” You’re a little breathless from jogging up to Colt, hoping you didn’t look too desperate to be in his presence.

Colt smiles and rubs the back of his neck, “Yeah. War Chief Zeke has me in a pretty tight schedule.”

“Well, you seem to be free now.” You comment off handedly, you know he’s probably on his way to another meeting or another training, just passing by and decided to say hi.

“Yeah, that’s why I’m here. I was hoping we could go for a walk or something?”

“Wait, really?” You ask incredulously, this man has never had a free minute in his life. And now that he does, he wants to spend it with you? You might faint.

“Unless you have somewhere to be.”

“No!” You shout, making Colt to jump slightly, “I mean, I’d love to.” Nodding too much, “How about you show me around the barracks? I’ve always wondered what it’s like to live in style.” You laugh.

“Okay but believe me when I tell you it’s not much.”

“Lead the way.”

Colt smiles and turns leading you down the block to the giant brick building.

The two of you catch up about the things he’s missed since being pulled from training. The different candidates that have dropped and joined. He tells you about all the things he’s learning, which isn’t much.

“It’s just a lot of playing catch.” Colt opens a door leading to his private dorm, “I mean we talk while we do it, but not how I imagined it going.”

You follow behind him into the sparse room, there’s the bare minimum of furniture, as most Eldians are lucky to even have. “Wow, you sure know how to decorate.”

Colt smiles, “I still try to go home as much as I can. My parents are proud, but I know Falco misses me more than he lets on.”

“A truly selfless big brother you are.” You nudge him with your elbow.

“Ah.” Colt grimaces, hand flying to where your elbow dug into his stomach.

“Are you alright?”

Colt huffs a laugh, rubbing is side, “War Chief Zeke’s throws sure pack a punch.”

“Was that from yesterday? When the ball caught you in the side?”

Colt nods, “It’s no big deal. Just a pretty nasty bruise.”

“Well at least let me look at it. I did rank higher than you in our first aid training.” You reach for his side before he turns away from you.

“Why were you staring at me yesterday?”

You freeze your movements and feel your face heat up, “What are you talking about?”

“War Chief Zeke says you were staring at me. Why?”

Mortification is all you can feel right now, “I wasn’t starring at you! And besides, I just felt bad that you got nailed in the stomach because you weren’t paying attention!” You all but stomp your foot. There’s no way he noticed you since he never has before. Which means War Chief Zeke must have pointed it out, which honestly might be worse than Colt noticing on his own.

“It was just a question. There’s no reason to get upset.”

“I’m not upset! And you’re being an idiot!” You know it wasn’t the best comeback, but you didn’t know what else to say. With that you turn around and fly down the hallway, ignoring Colt when he calls after you.

…

“She said she wasn’t starring at me.”

“Hmm?” Zeke doesn’t look up from the papers on his desk.

“Well, I tried to complete the test you assigned me yesterday, but she said she wasn’t staring at me, sir.”

Zeke looks up and studies Colt for a moment before sighing and leaning back in his chair, taking off his glasses to rub his eyes. Colt feels a rock settle in his stomach. It’s the first time the War Chief has really asked anything of him aside from playing catch and he’s let him down. He’s going to be stripped of titan before he even gets it, and his family will be at risk, maybe even more so than before. Falco will have to become a warrior to save them now. That’s something he was hoping to avoid, but it could already be too late for Colt anyway.

Colt is broken from his thoughts when he realizes Zeke is laughing, “Sir?”

“Don’t tell me you outright asked her?”

“Well.” Colt trails off, “I figured a head on tactic would be most successful.”

Zeke laughs to himself, rising from his chair to open a window, “One of your highest marks was in tactical and strategic planning, but I guess that only applied to categories of war.” Zeke pulls a cigarette, “Have a seat, Colt.”

Colt sits as the War Chief rounds the desk, smoke clouds in his wake. “Do you know much of the person who possessed the Beast before me?” Zeke leans against the desk.

“Tom Ksaver, sir.”

“Yes. Tom helped me through some of the most difficult times in my life, was more of a father to me than Grisha ever was.” Zeke takes a long drag, “I’d like to help you that way in the years I have remaining.”

“Of course, sir. I’d truly appreciate it.” Colt nods.

“Well, let’s start with yesterday. How exactly did you figure out that she wasn’t staring?” Zeke has a smile on his face like he knows something Colt doesn’t. Which isn’t necessarily uncommon, but Colt feels like he’s missing something here he should know.

“Well, I had given her a tour of the barracks, and she was asking to examine the bruise on my side from playing catch and I asked why she was looking at me then anyway. As you pointed out, sir. And she told me she wasn’t.”

Zeke takes a last drag from his cigarette before putting it out in the ash tray, “Let me get this straight. The two of you were alone in your room?”

Colt’s eyes widen, “I’m sorry, sir. I should have asked for permission before bringing her in there.”

Zeke continues, not even acknowledging Colt’s apology, “And she was asking you to remove your shirt, which is when you decided was the best time to question her stares?”

“Yes.”

Zeke’s silence bares down on Colt, and he’s about to break the silence when Zeke let’s out a deep hearty laugh, “I’m assuming the years you’ve spent as a warrior candidate have had you focused on your training and nothing else.”

Colt nods, slightly confused, “Of course sir. I wanted to redeem my family’s sins against Marley.”

Zeke nods, understanding all too well, “And you’ve done it. The next inheritor of the Beast Titan. It’s safe to say the Grice family is in good standards.” Colt nods as Zeke continues, “And you’ll have plenty to learn now, and I’ll try my best to prepare you. Most will come on your own, long after I’m gone.” Zeke pauses to pick up the baseball that always sits on the edge of his desk. “Doesn’t mean now’s the time to slack off, but I’m sure a little excitement in your life could do you well.”

“I’m not sure I follow.”

“The brightest can truly be the densest.” Zeke mutters to himself, “If I were a betting man, I would say she has a schoolgirl crush on you.”

“What! Me?” Colt shouts.

“Who knows, might not be exactly schoolgirl either. I’m assuming you’re aware of the sexual innerworkings between individuals?”

Colt feels his face go red, this is not what he thought warrior training would entail.

“Colt. The second you were selected to inherit a titan, your life became a countdown. Don’t waste the moments you would regret.”

“I thought Warriors didn’t bother with things like that for the same reason exactly.”

Zeke hums, throwing his ball into the air a few times before placing it on the desk again, “Now that is something we can discuss at a later date. But as for now, I’d say take the day to make amends with your friend.”

“Are you sure, sir? I only just arrived.”

Zeke scoffs, “Please go.”

...

You barely had the energy to make it to the training grounds today. Laying in your bed all night replaying the Colt’s words in your head made sleep elusive. Not the typical thoughts of Colt that kept you up at night.

Never in your life had you been so embarrassed. Maybe you should drop out of the Warrior program all together. It’s not like you’ll ever inherit a titan anyway, and if you found a job in Liberio it would be easier to avoid Colt for the rest of your life.

Well, you suppose it would only to be about fifteen years of hiding, and then his term would come to an end anyway. The thought makes your stomach churn, and you wish it had never entered your brain in the first place.

The day drags on. When you’re finally free, you say quick goodbyes to your friends hoping to get home and crawl into your bed until you can erase the mortification from your consciousness.

But that’s going to be hard with Colt standing at the gates just like yesterday. Hoping to make yourself as small as possible you duck your head and try to hurry past without him noticing.

But your plan is unsuccessful when you hear your name being called behind you.

Stopping in your tracks you turn around, Colt just a step behind.

“Hey.” He says, “I wasn’t sure if you saw me back there.”

“Must have missed you.” You give a tight smile, “I’ll see you around though.”

Turning around you’ve decided you will be going home to curl up in a ball and die, but your hand is tugged back.

“I was hoping we could talk about yesterday.”

“What’s there to talk about?” You fight the heat building behind your cheeks.

“Well, I think I said some things that might have upset you, and I wanted to apologize.”

“You didn’t upset me. I just had remembered I needed to get home is all. Which is also where I need to be now. So, I’ll see you around Colt.”

“I was thinking we could go get that soda finally. I know I always say next time.” He gives you that lopsided grin when he knows he has someone caught, and you’re sure you’re actually going to go weak in the knees.

And a tiny part of you hates yourself for not being strong enough, “Okay.”

…

It’ll be sunset soon, and you know you should be getting home soon, but you’re laughing at Colt’s impression of Magath and you know these moments will be worth it even if you get shit from one of the gate guards.

“I am sorry if I upset you yesterday.” Colt says, abruptly.

You pause before answering, wishing Colt hadn’t brought this up again. “It’s okay. I might have overreacted anyway.”

He stares into your eyes, and you think he’s searching for something before looking back at the street in front of you two, sighing, “I’m just trying to do my best. And I feel like I’m falling behind, and that any second everyone will realize they should have picked someone else.”

You scoff, “Well that’s just wrong. You were basically the top of our class in every subject! I don’t think there was or will be anyone else who has dedicated so much time to the program.”

Colt doesn’t answer, eyes now at his hands, clearly lost in thought.

You nudge his shoulder, “You okay?”

“War Chief Zeke thinks you have a crush on me.”

You freeze, feeling your stomach dropped, “God! Do you believe everything he says?” You shout.

Colt jumps at your outburst, clearly not expecting it, “Wait!” He puts his hands out, like he was preparing for you to run away, “I didn’t mean it like that! I mean he did say that, but I was just wondering, I guess if you did?”

“What do you care anyway?” You fold your arms.

Colt groans, “I don’t know. War Chief Zeke basically told me to stop wasting my life and to figure it out.”

“So, do you want to know for yourself of because War Chief Zeke told you to?”

“Would it be bad if I said both?”

You roll your eyes and huff, “This is why you’ve never realized! You’ve always been so focused on inheriting a titan, that you never realized what was right in front of you!”

Colt frowns, “That’s not fair. You know why I’m doing this.”

You feel horrible for a second, “I didn’t mean it like that, Colt.” You whisper, sitting down again. You groan before dropping your head into your hands, “Everyone else has picked up on it. I’ve never even spoken to War Chief Zeke and he knows.” You meet his gaze, “I mean, am I that invisible?”

Colt opens and closes his mouth a few times, “I wouldn’t, I mean that’s not-” Colt trails off. “I’m clearly fucking this up.” He sighs, shoulders dropping.

You sit there in shame for having spilled your guts out and Colt can barely get a word out. Hiding for the rest of your life is starting to look better and better.

“I think you’re stunning.” You whip up your head, but Colt is still looking at his locked hands, “I think you’re intelligent, and so kind, and this amazing person.” He looks up at you, “I’m an idiot for ignoring that, and I want to try showing you how sorry I really am.”

“Oh.” You can barely whisper, mouth slightly parted.

Colt’s eyes flick between yours and your lips, “Is it okay if I kiss you?”

You nod, afraid to say anything that might break this moment. But your heart is thumping so loudly you’re sure he can hear it.

His head leans in towards you, and your eyes flutter close waiting for his lips to touch yours. Instead, you feel a sharp pain on your forehead.

“Ow!” Rubbing your forehead, you see Colt is doing the same.

“Shit.” He mutters to himself, he looks up, face redder than you ever thought possible, “Sorry I’m so helpless.”

“Colt.” You press a hand into his cheek, this time guiding your mouth to his. And you don’t close your eyes until your lips are firmly pressing against his. He isn’t moving against you, more like he’s shocked still.

Taking the lead, you wrap your hand around the back of his neck, pulling him closer. He gasps at the feel of your tongue sliding against his lips, and you use the opportunity to slide it in.

This is about as far as you’ve gotten with anyone, so you aren’t quite sure what to do next. But Colt seems to have returned to the moment and has some intuition, because he meets your tongue in his mouth with his. Swiping his over yours several times that has a chill running down your spine.

You feel one of his hands grab at your thigh, pulling you closer while the other slides to cup your face. He continues wrestles your tongue with his and it’s making you a little dizzy. And suddenly you feel his teeth nip at your bottom lip that has you gasping a moan.

He pulls away, both of your chests heaving like you just ran laps around the training field.

“That was nice.” You say, cringing at how awkward you sound.

“Really nice.” He keeps fluttering his gaze between your eyes and lips like he wants to go back for more.

“So-” You trail off, not quite sure what to say.

“You know,” He starts, “It’s getting pretty dark out. You should probably just stay the night, that is if you want to?”

Your mouth drops slightly, “Yeah. Okay.” You give him a small smile.

His hand has moved from your thigh to grab your hand, and stands pulling you up along too, “Okay.”

You smile interlocking his fingers, “See? You’re not completely helpless.”

“What do you- oh. Oh.” Colt’s face flushes, “I didn’t mean it like that, I mean, unless you want to me to mean it like that.”

Squeezing his hand, you take a little pity on the boy, “Let’s just go.”

And now you’re sitting side by side on his bed, exchanging small kisses between giggles.

“Do you think this could be easier?” He asks between kisses.

You pull back, “What?”

“I mean, like if you sat in my lap, or something, I guess.” Colt trails off, embarrassed for even asking.

“Okay.” You push Colt to sit back further on his bed and straddle his hips, “Is this okay?”

Colt doesn’t answer. Can’t answer. He didn’t realize how warm you would feel in his lap, and how dim light from the single lamp would make your eyes seem more vibrant. But he does give a slight nod and you return your mouth to his.

Shifting slightly to reposition more comfortably, you feel his bulge brush against you. The sensation sends a tingle through you, so you try it again. Maybe a litter harder than last time because now Colt lets out a quick groan while bucking up into your body.

You gasp at his sudden movement, surprised that you elicited such a reaction.

Both of you pull back to look at each other. And there’s some unspoken communication happening between the two of you because he’s pulling you down on top of him and you’re reaching for the bottom of his shirt while he’s running his hands along you sides and kissing your neck.

After you get all his buttons undone, he pulls away for moment to tear of his shirt and pull the under one off over his head.

You sit back, feeling his hardness that seems to have grown press into your ass. You’d be more interested in exploring that, if you weren’t so memorized by all the skin Colt just exposed you to.

You flick your eyes up to Colt’s quickly, seeing he’s waiting for you to make the first move. So you begin your assault on his neck, running your tongue along his collar bone, biting at his skin that earns you a squeak.

Your hands have been tracing his stomach, scratching and rubbing at the hardened muscle. You continue to scoot further down his body, now straddling his thighs.

“Wait!” Colt straightens and grips your hand that was edging closer to his belt, “It’s just, I’ve never really done this before.”

You smile and shrug, “I figured, but I haven’t either.”

“No.” Colt says, his face grave, “Like I haven’t really even done things with myself, like that.” His cheeks are a dark pink and you can’t help but wonder what other parts of his body are flushed.

“Oh.” You straighten, realizing just what he meant, “So, you’ve never thought about things like this? Even at night?”

Colt flushes and grumbles, “Kind of hard when I shared a room with Falco.”

You smile, “That’s okay. I think I’ve thought about this enough for the both of us.” Pressing a quick kiss to his lips, and then continuing to his neck, enjoying the small whines pouring from his lips, “I’ll take care of you.” You whisper into his shoulder, loving the shiver that dances across his body.

Pushing gently on Colt’s shoulder, he lays back onto his elbows, his gaze never leaving you as you scoot further down his body until your face to face with his groin.

You check once more with hands on his belt buckle. When you get a small nod, your fingers have never undone a belt so quickly. You pull at his pants and briefs, Colt helping by lifting his hips just enough to free himself.

And then you’re met with the glorious sight of his erect cock, already leaking from the slit. You can’t help but run your fingers along the shaft.

Colt lets out a sharp gasp, grabbing at you, unsure if he wants to push you away or ask you to do that again.

You never believed the others who said boys would react that easily, surely it took more than a few soft touches. But here’s Colt, looking at you like you’ve single handedly tilted the world on its axis with that single movement.

You sit up on your knees and Colt whines, but he quickly appreciates the action as you start to unbutton your own shirt, throwing it onto the pile of growing clothes on the floor.

You tentatively reach for his cock, a hand wrapping around the base, “You’ll tell me if I’m doing something wrong?”

“I’m pretty sure everything you do is going to be perfect.” Colt has his eyes on where your hand is grasping him. You smile at how transfixed he is. You lean down, still looking at his face waiting for him to make eye contact.

When he does you take the head of his cock into your mouth, swirling your tongue while still locked with his eyes.

Colt breaks first, throwing his head back, unable to feel and look at the same time.

You laugh slightly, sounding more muffled with your mouth full. You continue to suck, rotating your hand in tandem with your mouth. All while Colt moans helplessly.

“Wait, wait.” Colt gasps, his hands on the side of your head, gently pulling you back, “I don’t want to end it there.”

You smile coyly, “You want to fuck me, Colt?”

“I would, I mean, if that’s what you want to?” He’s still panting, looking quite the sight.

Nodding, you pull yourself up. And Colt reaches for you, kissing you deeply which surprises you because your mouth is filled with the taste of him.

His hands run up and down you side, squeezing you when he gets to your hips, “Are you going to take this off?”

“Okay.” Rolling off and onto your back, you shimmy out of your pants and throw them on the ground. You know Colt is staring at you. You feel a little shy under his gaze and avert your eyes to his clothing situation.

“Are you going to take yours off?”

“Shit.” He mutters, “Right.” Colt stands awkwardly pulling at his pants that makes you giggle and has Colt laughing with you.

When he’s completely naked, Colt joins you on the bed, capturing your lips. You feel his hardness pressing into your thigh with the way he’s straddling your leg. His kisses continue to the corner of your mouth, your cheek, and trails down your neck until he comes to your bra.

Looking at you for permission, you nod and watch as he pushes the fabric off your shoulder and does the same to the other side. You reach behind yourself to undo the clasp, shyly pulling it off. You’ve never been so bare in your entire life.

“You’re beautiful.” Colt breaths, a hand coming up to cup your breast. He pushes up to his knees, his thigh brushing against your covered center, and the friction makes you moan and roll your hips back against the hard muscle.

You meet each other’s eyes, both a little startled at the reaction. Colt recovers quicker than you, pressing kisses to the top of your breast, a hand still pulling and massaging the other.

He presses his weight further into you, the pressure sending jolts of lighting straight through you.

A cry leaves your mouth that you try to cover with your hand, biting into the flesh of your palm.

His hand slip further down your body until it’s dancing at the edge of your panties.

“Take them off.” You whisper, eyes fixed on the ceiling above you.

You notice Colt pause his movements and then after a beat hooks his fingers on either side, slowly pulling them down your legs. His hot breath fans over your stomach, thighs, until he’s sitting back on his heels between your legs.

His cock still painfully erect, but he’s focused on you, eyes flittering between yours and your newly displayed cunt. He places his hands on your thighs, rubbing them up and down, closer and closer to where you both want them to be.

Colt hesitates, “Will you show me what to do?”

You nod taking his hand and guiding it between your legs with your own. Placing your fingers over his, you guide him in a circular motion, “This feels the best.”

He watches the motion of both your hands. And you have to hold back a laugh because his face is so intense like he’s studying for an upcoming exam.

You remove your hand, allowing Colt to find his own rhythm.

He rubs a few circles before looking back at you for your reaction. But you don’t have to say anything because the heaving of your chest and hand grasping at the sheets is all the answer he needs.

Colt continues rubbing you while returning his mouth to one of your breasts.

You can hardly breath with the way his fingers are pulsing at your nerves and his warm tongue sloppily flicking your nipple. You gasp when you feel a slight pinch that must have been teeth and cry out, “Fingers!” Colt’s face jumps up with confusion written across it, but he doesn’t stop his movements which makes it hard for you to explain, “You fingers. Put them in.” You’re rotating your hips in tandem with his hand, thrusting wishing for something to fill you up.

Colt must understand because a second later you feel a finger rubbing your opening. You’re about to complain again when Colt decides to take mercy and pushes one inside.

It’s all over for you there. The sudden stretching paired with his constant movements on your clit and warm body pressed into you, it sends you over the edge. Colt doesn’t stop though, lost in the look on your face. He couldn’t bear to move his eyes right now, not when you’re crying out like that because of him.

He can feel you pulsing around his fingers even though he’s barely moved them.

You cry out, trying to lock your legs together, but his body stops you from barely being able to move them, and you have to grip his wrist to rip his hand off of you, the stimulation being too much.

Panting heavily, you feel Colt withdraw his finger, and you whine at the loss. But then you see Colt sucking the finger into his mouth, wet with your slick. You almost cum again at the sight.

“Can I do what you did for me?”

You smile at his eagerness, “Maybe later? Right now, I really want you in me.”

His eyes widen at your boldness, “Oh, okay. Umm, how do you want to do it?”

Sitting up you grab his cheek for a kiss, the taste of yourself filling your senses. Gently pushing his shoulder, Colt lays down giving you the opportunity to swing a leg over his hip, “Is this okay?”

“More than okay.”

You smile before slowly grinding your slit along his cock. The feel of your slick coating him has Colt gasping for air. Reaching between the two of you, you grasp his cock, holding it as you line yourself up.

You slowly lower yourself on to the tip of his cock. The stretch burns more than you thought it would, and immediately pause the movement.

Colt freezes, going rigid under you that causes a pulse in your cunt, “Are you okay?”

It’s hard to find the words to explain the pain but also the pleasure and desire to go harder “You feel so big, Colt.” 

“Oh.” He blushes, which earns a giggle from you. And it’s a slow process after, only taking a little bit of him in at a time.

Colt can barely utter a word, too transfixed on all of you. From your wide eyes to tits in his face and cunt slowly sucking in his cock. He has to clench his eyes to avoid ending this all too soon.

You exhale sharply when he finally bottom’s out, his cock is splitting you in half. And he looks so sweet under you, so you can’t help but to caress the side of his face, fingers dancing along his cheek, “You’re doing so good.”

His jaw is dropped and digs his hands into the flesh of your hips to ground himself. “Please.” He whines, “Please move.”

“You have to be quiet for me baby.” You slowly rise on your knees, hands planted on his chest for balance, before slamming down harder than you meant to, both of you letting out a groan, his louder than yours. You lean down and let your lips brush over his ear, “Unless you want the other warriors to hear us?”

Colt’s eyes snap open and search yours frantically. It’s clear the thought turns him on if the twitching of his cock is anything to go by.

You hum as you rock forward, “Want everyone to know how good you’re giving it to me right now? On your first try and you already have me creaming all over your cock.”

Colt doesn’t answer, can’t answer. Captivated with sight of his cock repeatedly disappearing into your cunt, sucking him in over and over and over.

You use your free hands to pull at your nipples, twisting the sensitive nubs.

“Please.” He mutters, eyes screwing shut, “I think I’m going to cum.”

“Not yet baby.” You tilt your head back, you’re almost there, and it feels amazing. You can’t believe you’re actually going to cum with Colt’s cock inside you. All the nights pretending it was your fingers could never match up to this.

“Slow down.” Colt holds your hips tighter, trying to change your movements, “You have to slow down.”

“Just a little bit longer.” You take his hands and hold them above his head, “Can you be good for me just a little bit longer?” Colt’s eyes are wide on yours as he gives a slight nod. You smile leaning down to capture his lips, tongue sliding along his. He groans into your mouth and you know you’re getting him closer and closer to his edge. And it really isn’t your fault when you clench around his cock, earning a strangled gasp he’s barely able to choke out.

The world shifts suddenly as you’re flipped onto your back with a squeak leaving your mouth.

Colt pulls out to stand on his knees before wrapping his hands into your thighs hard enough that it’ll surely bruise and buries himself back into the hilt, knocking the air out of you.

“I. Told. You. To. Slow. Down.” He punctuates every word with a hard thrust that has you seeing stars.

“Colt, please!” You cry, reaching for him to pull him into a kiss but he only grabs your hand, trapping it between his and the bed, getting a little more leverage as he continues to pound into you.

Colt doesn’t say much, focusing on holding off his impeding orgasm until he can get you there. He hitches your leg higher around his waist, giving it an almost stinging slap, but you get the message and wrap both your legs around him, locking your ankles.

He slides his hand downward until he reaches the bundle of nerves you showed him earlier, and presses begins pressing tight circles into it.

“Yes, yes!” You begin to pant, your legs starting to shake from the pressure building, “Don’t stop!” Suddenly you tense up, legs locking in place and eyes rolling into the back of your head. You feel Colt work you through the orgasm, stroking that spot inside you again and again that you swear makes you cum for a third time that night.

Going limp, you let your legs fall to the bed and head lull to the side. Colt’s thrust become more erratic before he pulls out, pumping his cock once, twice, and spills out. Warm ropes hit you stomach and breasts. You don’t even have time to think about it before Colt is collapsing on top of you, harshly panting into your neck.

You both lay there, sweat cooling on your skin that makes you shiver slightly.

“That was,” Colt trails off, still trying to piece his brain back together. It makes you smile to see him so off kilter for once.

Bringing your hands up to his jaw, you pull him back slightly, “Yeah, it was.” And press your lips to his, not really kissing since you’re both smiling too much.

And that smile stays on Colt’s face all through the night and next morning as he walks you back to the training grounds. Only widening after you press a kiss to his lips before quickly ducking into the building.

“So, you worked things out with your friend?” Colt looks up to see War Chief Zeke behind him smoking a cigarette, and Colt can’t help but blush at the fact Zeke might have just witnessed your goodbye, “No need to be flustered.” Zeke drops his cigarette on the ground, stomping out the embers, before tossing the extra catcher’s mitt into Colt’s hands, “Nowhere near as graphic as what we all had to endure last night.”

And only then is when Colt’s smile finally falls.

But maybe you can get it back later tonight.

[wesimpforxiao]

Say My Name and I’ll Be There: 10.2

Author’s Note: I got all 4 wisdom teeth removed on Tuesday and now I look a bit like a chipmunk hehehe XD

"Haah...ngh..."  Squinted eyelids prevented you from panicking at the sight of the branch retracting from your abdomen while you slowly pulled yourself away from the tree.  Still, the movement only enhanced the stars that obscured your vision.

"Your opponent's right here."  A cold warning caught your attention, and you glanced up to see Childe with another arrow knocked against his bow and aimed at Scaramouche's head.  Apparently the sixth harbinger was contemplating on striking you down while you moved.  "Your fight is with me."

"You have three seconds before I end you for betraying the will of the Tsaritsa," he growled back.

"Well, Mezzetin? What're you waiting for? Get out of here."

"Mhmm..."  You scooped up a handful of snow and pressed it to your stomach.  You don't have to tell me twice.  You turned your back to them, trusting Childe with your literal life in his hands, and--froze.  Dammit.  Why is he throwing his life away for me? He has a family to return to.  "Childe-"

"Go! I can handle him."

You peered over your shoulder to gaze at his profile.  He didn't bother looking your way which was the smart move given the dangerous situation.  His expression was nothing less than determined and focused on the opponent in front of him.  "Be careful."

Childe didn't respond, though his lips did twitch slightly upward at your heartfelt warning.  The sound of retreating footsteps that crunched in the snow allowed him to breathe a sigh of relief. He dismissed his bow and summoned two hydro blades in his hands.  "Now then.  I've been wanting to fight you for awhile now.  What do you say we have ourselves a friendly fight to the death? Show me your strength."

.................................

"What do you think you're doing?"  A faceless god struck Xiao across the face and sent him sprawling to the ground.  "You have the audacity to disobey my commands?  Who do you think you are? You are nothing without me.  You hear? You're nothing, Alatus."

Xiao licked the blood that covered his teeth and bit his lip to prevent himself from fighting back.  This wasn't a new occurrence by any means...or at least, the little rebellion wasn't.  He would fight, claw his way out of this god's grasp if he could, but every day he was back at square one:  nothing but a slave.

"What's your excuse this time," the god questioned, yanking Xiao into the air by construing a firm grip in the adeptus's hair, "that you couldn't fulfill your duty?  Did it make you sick, killing those creatures?  Exterminating those gods that were strangers to you?  You're weak.  You're worthless.  You're worthless!"  

The god dropped Xiao and he fell to his knees.  He couldn't bring himself to speak with the growing lump in his throat and the tears burning his eyes.  Who was he but a murderer now?  Could his soul even be redeemed for the sins he's committed?  He's only been in this god's grasp for a couple months now, but the amount of beings he's killed is--

"I have a special punishment for you."  The god summoned what looked to be a young god, no older than a child and an orphan by the tear stains on his cheeks.  He was beaten, like this god had already decided to have his way with the child; bruises colored his pale malnourished flesh with blues and purples.  There was no light in the kid's eyes; they were empty, devoid of hope, devoid of rage, devoid of even sadness.

The sight alone was enough to scar Xiao.  Would he too become devoid of all emotion in due time?

His master shoved the god spawn forward so he fell before Xiao's stiff body.  "Kill him."

"What?"

"You heard me loud and clear, Alatus.  Kill him, and eat his dreams.  This is what you will do from now on when I give you the order to kill."

"I can't," Xiao wavered and stared at the broken child in front of him.  "I won't."

Xiao would very much rather be dead than do these awful tasks so the god never bothered to threaten death.  Doing so would give this worthless servant release from a job that needs to be done.  Torture seemed to work on some occasions, but eventually Xiao had become used to the pain and rarely cried out.  So the best way to get this stupid creature to follow orders--  "If you don't, I will.  And you know what that means."

Unnecessary torture until his dying breath, the yaksha thought as his wavering gaze lowered to the child once more.

"What'll it be?"

The child held Xiao's gaze, but he felt no hope looking at the adeptus.  His life was over; that much, he was sure.  There was no point in living anyway.  His entire family was slaughtered.  Where could he go but wonder the lands alone?  Nothing would fill the void in his heart nor replace his loved ones.  

Xiao recognized the acceptance, the defeat, in the child's broken demeanor.  He didn't want to kill him but if it prevented a much slower, painful death, then this is an act of kindness.  It's an act of kindness.  It's an act of kindness.  He's doing this for the orphan's benefit.  This is a way of saving the child.  This is--

"...Forgive me."  

The blade of his polearm shot through the god spawn with the utmost precision and speed.  A weak labored gasp escaped him from the contact, but all he felt was a small pinch.  It was peaceful, or at least as peaceful as death could be.

This is for his own good, Xiao told himself as he watched the life drain from his eyes.  A desperate persuasion of the mind to preserve what little innocence he has left.

"Eat his dreams."

"I won't disobey again.  Please, spare me," he begged.  But the unwavering glare of his master said there was no room for bargaining.  

Xiao returned his attention to the boy who was now hanging by a very thin thread.  To extract one's dreams, they must still be alive--and the last moments of their death are a frightening eternal nightmare.  He did as he was told and pulled the boy's dreams out until a glowing substance sat lightly in his hand.  The smell was different for everyone's dreams, those with pure hearts having the sweetest of fragrances just like this boy's.  The tastes of dreams themselves were rather unrememberable, but the textures were all the same.

He devoured it as quickly as possible, holding his breath so that sickly sweet aroma wouldn't stick around in his nose to haunt him.  As he did, the dying boy's expression changed from empty to horrified, and then his body finally gave in to the drastic wound in his chest and slumped over.

He just stared helplessly at the body for awhile while his master nodded in approval.  The weight of the god's hand clapping his shoulder barely managed to snap Xiao out of his distraught gaze.

"You'll learn to love the taste, Alatus. Then their distraught expressions as you take from them."  Then the god dismissed himself from the room leaving Xiao to stare brokenly at the corpse before him.

Xiao's nose scrunched up in anger while his stomach flipped with displeasure.  He hated this god.  He hated him.  'You're wrong, I could never,' he wanted to protest, 'I could never be like you,' but his stomach twisted in self-disgust.  A part of him did enjoy it, if even by the smallest amount, and it made him hate himself even more.

If killing the child broke him, then devouring, tasting, and seeing the child's dreams devastated him.  They consisted of the child with his parents living together again.  Smiling, laughing.  No sign of torture, only peace.  Something pure and loving, that he would never have again nor will Xiao ever get the chance to experience.

Just as that child died, so too did Xiao's remaining innocence.

Years passed, and what once was a kind-hearted adeptus was now a cold-blooded killing machine.  Slaying gods left and right, increasing the death toll in the honor of his wretched master until a major war broke out throughout Teyvat.  That was when he saw fear in his master's eyes for the first time--the threat of his domain being overthrown loomed heavily over his head. Though Xiao felt a sense of hope, it was quickly shattered when he was once again put to work.

It was one gloomy day during the Archon War when he and his master were confronted by Morax.  They tag-teamed the god, but the master was quickly slain while Xiao was trapped between a few pillars summoned by the god of geo. The master's blood spilled onto the grass and he felt his knees weaken with relief and trepidation.

Finally, he was free.  He sank to his knees and watched Morax approach him with a bloody spear.  He can die free.  Morax had other plans for him and welcomed his presence with open arms.  But the words that came out of his mouth did not belong to him.

"Xiao, can you...hear me?"  The voice that came from Morax was heavily distorted and high-pitched.  "Please..."

"That's not part of this memory," Xiao, now aware that he was dreaming, spoke out.  "Who's calling me?"

"Please don't die!"  Why was it suddenly hard to breathe, and what was this grief and anger washing over him suddenly?

"P-please don't die!"  I have to go back for him.  He can't--  You stumbled forward through the snow, still hesitant on whether to follow Zhongli's trail or make your way back to the palace rubble.  It was only a moment's hesitance, though--you were already making a beeline for the palace and making a point to avoid Childe's fight by the time you realized what you were doing.  It wasn't long until your wounds and exhaustion caught up to you about halfway back to the palace.  You force yourself to continue on all-fours for a little ways, but your fingers were growing numb from the cold now that you lacked a vision.  "Rex Lapis, please, I can't--I need to reach--"  Wait.  The wind can carry me, can't it?  You tried despite the growing pain in your stomach.  It barely lifted you off the snow, but it was something.  You can do this.  It's just another mile or so.  

But just as your body was lifted from the ground, something grabbed you by the collar of your shirt and lifted you higher into the air like an animal carries it's offspring.  "It seems I cannot dissuade you from running back to danger."

"Z-Zhongli?" You winced, and your hand pressing tighter against your side.

"You're injured!"  Aether immediately moved to inspect the wound, but you swatted him away just as Zhongli set you back on your feet.  "Were you able to defeat Scaramouche?"

"I'm fine, it's not fatal--I think."  Your gaze swept across your companions' faces.  "...Childe intervened and is fighting him now."

"Wait, Childe betrayed the Tsaritsa?"  Paimon appeared out of thin air after hearing this.  "Why the heck would he do that? And now of all times?!"

"Perhaps it's best we save the questions for later," prompted Zhongli.  This may as well be some form of apology for the harbinger's actions against you and the rest of the group; he hinted a possible alliance when Zhongli confronted him above the harbor after the Lantern Rite ended.  Regardless of the intent, they need to take advantage of the time they were given now.

"Either way, I don't care.  I'm not leaving Xiao.  You all came to rescue me, but I refuse to have my life traded for one of yours."

"That much is clear," the consultant let out a heavy sigh, but there was a certain fondness and respect in his eyes as he looked at you.  "Very well.  But as soon as we recover him, we leave immediately.  No more impulsive decisions."

"Yes sir."

"I too have begun to suspect all is not well," he murmured thoughtfully, but you couldn't quite hear him.  "Do not push yourself further, I'll carry you."

"Wha--? Ah!"

The palace was a literal heap of smoking rubble.  Not a pillar was left standing.  Whatever fires may have started were immediately smothered by the snow, leaving ominous black pillars of smoke that didn't have an origin.  The silence was overwhelming despite being filled by the wet shoes that crunched in the snow.  By the looks of it, not a single agent survived the fall.  How would they? For humans are but fragile creatures incapable of healing themselves unless they had the specific power to do so.

Paimon frantically flew over the rocks and columns ahead of the group.  "The mess goes on and on! Where would we even start?"

"We should split up to cover more ground."

"But what if the Tsaritsa reappears?"

"I doubt she will be in a fighting condition after facing Xiao.  Paimon and I will start here.  Aether, would you two search to your right?"

"Sounds like a plan."  The traveler joined your side while throwing your arm over his shoulder to assist you.  You weren't looking too hot; your skin was pale but it was unknown whether it was more from the cold or from your injury.  "Leave the heavy lifting to me, alright?  Don't push yourself too much."

"Xiao's always pushed himself to protect me.  It's time I do the same for him."

A wry grin lifted the corners of Aether's lips.  "That might be true, but he's more equipped to handle it don't you think?"  He escorted you to a suspiciously large pile of rubble.  "Wait here.  I'm going to use Elemental Sight to see if I can locate him."

"Elemental Sight?"

"Oh...right...you never learned how to do that since you haven't held a vision for long," an awkward laugh escaped Aether as he began pushing boulders away from the pile.  "I'll tell you about it after this is over."  The elemental traces left behind were crowded with a mix of cryo and anemo energy, which made it difficult to decipher the strongest trail that Xiao left behind.

"...What'll we even do once we find him?  Where would we go?  The Tsaritsa wouldn't just give up on hunting us down."  Your palms pressed against the next boulder and it tumbled unceremoniously into the snow.  Then they gripped the next one, and your shoe needed to push against it for it to budge.

Aether didn't answer at first and the two of you removed several chunks of the wreckage over several minutes.  Then he used his Elemental Sight again and scanned the area.  "I was actually talking to Zhongli about that after we left Scaramouche to you.  I was gifted a Serenitea Pot a few days after you joined the Fatui; it's an adeptal realm only I or those I invite can access."  Aether's gaze hovered over a spot and his brows furrowed with concentration.  "The two of you can stay in there until the situation calms--There."

"Huh?"  You followed his line of sight but didn't see anything.  "What's there?"

"He's very close.  Hey, Zhongli! Paimon! Over here!"

"Did you find him?"  Paimon beat Zhongli to the punch and worriedly scanned the surrounding area.  

"I think he's trapped back here.  Zhongli...?"

"Allow me."  The boulders of rubble carefully rose away from the pile one by one to prevent any possible cave-ins that could injure Xiao.  He must've removed at least twenty chunks from the debris before a small cavern was revealed.

"--wake up!  Xiao!"  The ringing in the yaksha's ears finally faded until a girl's voice filled its place.  Slowly, his drowsy eyelids opened to see a blurry figure stare down at him.  Despite his unfocused gaze his reflexes were as quick as they always were.  A flash of silver nearly slashed at your neck, but a golden shield erupted around you and Xiao's polearm bounced off.  You were unfazed.  "It's alright.  You're safe now."  A numb hand was placed against his cheek.

Zhongli stared thoughtfully at the boulder that sat on Xiao's abdomen and stained his clothes red.  "Aether, can you grab a few handfuls of snow?"  

"Yeah.  I'll be right back."  Paimon glanced at the two of them before flying after Aether.

"Don't do the stupid thing and move yet," you nagged once you finally caught sight of the blood.  

Something between a pained groan and a scoff left his lips.  'Don't do the stupid thing?'  Who do you think you're talking to?  "You're one to talk," his gaze grazed over your side, where the snow you had pressed against your body was melting and soaked with blood.  "...Here.  Put more pressure like this."  Despite being pinned, his heavy arm lifted enough to push against your skin.

"I would do the same to you, but your injuries are more extensive--"

"Yes, it would be wise to refrain from doing anything until Aether returns."  Zhongli knelt on the other side of the yaksha, his gloved hand ghosting over the boulder.  "I may have a solution, though it depends entirely on the presence of those Aether has authorized to enter his teapot..."

"Okay, do you think this should be enough?" The traveller entered the cramped cavern once again with an armful of clean snow and his scarf removed.  "We can tie this around his waist so the bleeding slows down--"

"Aether," Zhongli turned to him.  "Have you by chance invited a healer to your Serenitea Pot?"

"...Yes, actually.  You're thinking I bring them here?"

"The opposite; I want you to enter your teapot now and see if they're taking residence at the moment.  If they are, we could potentially send these two into the teapot where the healer aid them."

"T-That's brilliant!"  Paimon immediately went to pull the Serenitea Pot out of Aether's bag.  "Paimon would've never thought of this! Quick, Traveler! Hurry up and go see if Bennett's inside!"

"Right!"  Aether handed the snow and scarf to Zhongli.  Then he opened the teapot and a vortex sucked him inward in an instant.

"It shouldn't take him long to return.  Quickly," he handed the scarf to you.  "I will lift the debris and place the snow on his injury.  While I do that, tightly wrap the scarf around his abdomen.  Ready?"

"Y-yes."  Xiao looked displeased, but he nodded at you.

"One, two, three." The debris was easily lifted off of Xiao's body.  

You did your best to ignore the gruesome wound and the dark blood that had soaked into his clothes, carefully sliding the fabric beneath his back and tying it at his front.  A low grunt escaped Xiao when confronted with the sudden movements, but other than that he remained silent.

Aether was thrown out of the teapot and almost stumbled onto the three of you.  "Okay, he's inside! Give me your hands."

"Our hands?"  You and Xiao exchanged confused looks before returning your attention to Aether.  Despite the confusion both of you lifted one of your hands to him.

Aether pulled out what looked to be some sort of marker from his bag and drew a symbol on your palm, then Xiao's.  The symbols then glowed a bright gold before fading like they had never been on your skin in the first place.  Next, Aether tapped both palms twice.  "Okay.  You'll be able to enter the realm now.  All you have to do is tap your hand like I did."

"...A-Are you sure about this? Xiao's..."  He's not looking well anymore; he was still bleeding heavily from his stomach and blood was still dripping from a wound somewhere behind his hairline.  "This won't hurt him, will it?"

"Relax.  Bennett will be there to treat him the second you guys enter."  

You and Xiao simultaneously turned to Zhongli, who nodded in confirmation.  "Go now.  We will contact you once we're out of Snezhnaya."

"Okay.  Be careful."  It was your turn to look at Xiao, and both of you then brought your hands together to enter the realm.

Tap, tap.

[creativemessbyvd]

Fic Idea Vault #5 - Dinluke Mulan AU

I have a lot (A LOT) of ideas for fics that I feel bad leaving in my computer to gather dust. So I have decided to share them here so people know of them and I can focus on the stories that I am planning on actively working on. Most of theses are just going to be bullet points of general things that I had planned for these stories. Hope you enjoy and if you are inspired by anything here, let me know if you end up writing and publishing anything! Would love to read it!

Genetheseral summary of the fic and then under the cut I leave the detailed events! :D

MULAN DINLUKE AU

Summary:

Various things are different in this Galaxy Far Far Away, leading Luke to be in the middle of the war at 15, and leaving him scarred after ending it at such a young age. After 5 years spent trying to find peace within himself and trying to not be afraid of using the force, Luke answers the call to arms from the new Mand'alor to save his Uncle Cody. Hidden behind his uncle's armor, Luke must pretend to be a clone raised by famous Clone Wars legend Commander Cody and definitely not a Jedi, sworn enemy of the Mandalorians. Fighting with finding if he wants to be the one in charge of reviving the Jedi, he finds kinship alongside Din Djarin who is now in charge of reviving the Mandalorians. Fighting a war, trying to fit in with the other Mandos, trying to keep little Grogu from spilling out his secrets after Luke finds out the child is force sensitive and trying to bury his feelings for the Mand'alor, Luke is sure this is nothing compared to what awaits him once Uncle Cody and Uncle Ben see him again.

(Please be aware most of these notes were done as soon as I had the idea, so excuse my inaccuracies, but also Cannon is my sandbox and we throw away anything that doesn't spark joy XD)

If you have any questions or wish to scream at me about this tiny idea, please leave me a comment or send me a message! Would love to talk about this!

Pre-Story changes to Cannon SW:

- Palpatine does get control of the universe, he orders the wipeout of the Jedi and warps up Anakin, leading to Vader.

- Cody and Rex manage to avoid O66 and take Ahsoka and Obi Wan alongside the twins away. Luke stays with Obi-Wan and Cody and Leia goes to the Organa's. Obi-Wan doesn't want to screw up with another padawan and Ahsoka refuses to be called a Jedi, but they do teach him to be safe just not to fight or use a saber

- Various events lead Luke to be targeted by both Palps and Vader earlier, leading him to hide out with Yoda and start his training after he believes his family was killed, and then into the big fight in the second death star that leads to Palps dead and Vader/Anakin being redeemed

- With the Empire fallen but Luke being so young and still mostly untrained in the Force, the whole story is that it was the rebellion who did it, so he goes back to Obi and Cody and quiet life in Tatooine

Present Story Time:

- At 20, 5 years after the Empire has fallen, the events of the Mando Series take place, except that Gideon doesn't have his droid army yet and escapes after Din has won the Darksaber from him and become Mand'alor

- Luke has been struggling to let go of the war and his time in Palps clutches, and while in serious lessons to become a Jedi with Obi-Wan and Ahsoka, he feels like he'll never make it (he's sorta blocked bc he learned the start with Yoda on the idea that he was the only one left to save the Galaxy)

- Hearing that there is a new Mand'alor and he is preparing for war against Gideon and his robots, but will only accept Mandos to fight by his side, prompts Cody to go. Obi-Wan is against the idea, considering that Cody suffered greatly in the event that tore Luke away from them, but he won't leave his brethren to go to war alone. Luke has heard all the story and considers Cody a father and doesn't want him to die, so he takes his armor and leaves with it.

- At the camp, he is placed in the newcomer's side and rattled on his armor (clearly a clones armor but from before the fall of the republic) and boba is brought in to interrogate the truth of Luke's story: that he was a young shiny that Cody and Rex took on a mission for the rebellion and raised as their own. Boba has feelings about hearing of Kote and verifies he knows said clone as being trustworthy, especially considering that he is certainly not as young as he could be, even if Bo-Katan is not happy but Din won't hear of it as they need as many Mandos as they can for the imminent attack of Mandalore.

- Luke grew up on the stories from Cody and Rex about their own version of being Mandalorian as thought by Jango and his inner circle, but it is entirely different once he is subjected to the training courtesy of Bo-Katan, who is dropping half the army left and right due to being 'unmandalorian'. She fights constantly against Din's decision to call for help to all willing Mandos, saying her own leftover Death Watch is enough, but Din is in part not comfortable having so many unknowns around him and wished to try to contact his own covert, if any still lived.

- After two weeks and constantly being put down by the unforgiving training, Luke decides to give his all, finally making leeway in his training and inspiring the rest of his new brethren. Din takes notice and gets closer to the young man (finding kinship in him never taking his armor off much like Din) while Luke is very surprised to find the young child of the Mand'alor is actually force sensitive and of the same species as Yoda. Grogu is aware after a few encounters that Luke is actually a Jedi but is unable to actually tell his father (he knows that his father has been looking for Jedi to train him but also how much Bo-Katan has screamed whenever din asked after looking for help from the new republic, citing that Mandalorians should never seek help from Jedi or Jedi affiliated) so he silently watches and plans to matchmake when he sees how good they are together

- Gideon has decided to move in and they must go meet him, and they all get a glimpse of the planet of Mandalore. They encounter a mild surprise attack and Luke surprises them all by getting a mini frighter and going head to toe with Gideon himself. It seems like Gideon and his troops are defeated but Luke suffers some deep wounds.

- As they check him over, they must remove his helmet and the medics inform Boba, Din and Bo-Katan that he isn't a clone as they thought and Boba recognizes his face while Bo-Katan recognizes his name. Din is distraught to learn he had become friendly with a Jedi and Bo-Katan is prepared to kill him but Din simply dismisses him and they move on.

- Left with his droid and his original ship, Luke can't believe his luck until he sees Gideon going after Din, who had received word of the Armorer and was en-route to meet with her and the rest of the covert. Luke knows that he can't let him get to them all and goes after them.

- In the wilds of Mandalore, the Armorer and many other foundlings and displaced clans have gathered, welcoming their new ruler who defeated Gideon and preparing a feast and party. Luke blends in and tries to convince the others that Gideon still lives but is refuted, but some of his friends do believe him including Grogu. Gideon does attack and takes Grogu and the foundlings hostage, Luke sees the opportunity and is suddenly at peace with being able to use the force to help himself and the others going to rescue the little ones. Gideon takes after Luke who he recognizes as the one who tore through his troops and meets his end.

- After all of this, the Armorer admits that while being a Jedi, Luke was very obviously a Mandalorian at heart and Din lets it known that he is to be treated as one of them. Bo-Katan isn't happy at all, but is even more horrified when Boba says he could replace her as part of Din's inner circle and more than one person agrees. Luke takes it all in but admits that he left his own clan behind and will need to seek their forgiveness. He also admits that after so long, he finally knows his path: to restore the Jedi Order and train other Force Sensitives, but will make it better and honor all the teachings the Mandalorians have taught him. Din is heartbroken to know he might part from Grogu but Luke admits he wouldn't be able to offer him much considering he doesn't have a place to teach from. He leaves them and Grogu and Din both get the Armorer's blessing to go after him and maybe offer him a place to start his school.

- Luke returns home and aks forgiveness from his uncles but is instead welcomed without any repercussions. That night as he settles into a family dinner that includes his sister, Din arrives with Grogu and offers them a place to settle his new school. Being a Mandalorian was part of Luke's and Grogu's history and both groups needed each other to become mighty again. Luke accepts and is equally giddy to see Luke too seems interested, leading Grogu to say FINALLY!

Characters:

Mulan - Luke

Shang - Din

Parents - Obi Wan and Cody

Grandmother - Ahsoka and Rex

Chi-Fu (advisor) - Bo-Katan

Emperor/Shang's Father - The Armorer

Mushu - Grogu and R2D2

Shan Yu (bad guy) - Gideon

[crosshairslongasslegs]

Redemption and heroic sacrifice arc *yawn*

This is my opinion. Whether you agree or not, that's fine. I respect your views so please respect mine.

As we all know, many theories are swirling around that there is going to be a major character death in the finale, most likely being Crosshair or Hunter. Since season 2 was announced, I'm certain we won't have to see one of our favourites go, well not this season anyway (but hey I could be wrong).

But I can't help become frustrated when I read "crosshair will most likely redeem himself and have some big sacrifice moment to save his brothers". This isn't me having a go at anyone who believes in this 'theory'. This is me who will become extremely upset if the writers go in this direction for Crosshair.

We know Star Wars tends to use this redemption arc for their villains/antagonists. Darth Vader returns to the light side and saves his son, then... gone. Kylo ren joins Rey to destroy Palps and literally gives his life to her, then... gone. On the other hand, we have Kallus from Rebels. He takes an unexpected yet satisfying turn against the Empire later on in the series, was forgiven and stays alive, which in my opinion was so refreshing to watch.

Don't get me wrong, some redemption arcs are a necessary ingredient for certain characters and just makes sense at the end of the day plot wise. But quite frankly, I'm bored of seeing this this type of plot, its just overused and most of the time not done right.

Back to Crosshair now. We don't know what the future holds for him in the finale. All I know is that he deserves a chance, just like Kallus (mind you he did far worst things than Crosshair) and was forgiven. I don't even know why in the first place Crosshair would even need to be forgiven. Because he brainwashed and controlled by a chip? For being loyal to the empire because he had no choice? Yes, you can say that he removed his chip and remained loyal to the empire, but at the end of the day, he was abandoned and had no one. What choice did he have? I'm certain the Bad Batch wouldn't even expect an apology from their brother, they want him back with their squad just as much as Crosshair wants it.

I want nothing more to see this man survive the next episode. Whether that means he rejoins his brothers or not, can you imagine witnessing a character struggling with past trauma and slowly overcome this, giving them tremendous growth and development instead of being killed off and that's it?

I hope for the shows sake, that the writers have made smart choices in regards to Crosshair. They barely explored his character in depth this season, until episode 15. They gave us a glimpse of how truly complex his character is and made me so excited knowing he can give so much to the show if they choose the right path for him. The POTENTIAL.

So to round all that up, Crosshair better live. The entire Bad Batch staying alive next episode would be nice, thanks.

Please remember I'm not attacking anyone and I respect everyone's opinions, even if they don't align with mine. Every one has the right to believe in what they feel is right. This is how I feel. Please be kind :)

[solohux]

happy 2021! i really hope we all have a better year this year but for now, here’s a list of my favourite kylo/hux fics that were published in 2020, ones that got me through days of lonliness and sadness to make me smile ✧

thank you fic writers of the kylux fandom! (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧

- keep in the dark (to stay out of the light) by howlingshame Modern AU. Smuggler Kylo Ren runs afoul of Armitage Hux, head of the First Order crime ring. Instead of killing him outright, Hux decides to keep him for his own instead. Kylo is none too thrilled with the situation, but Hux has plenty of patience. He wants Kylo to be his in every sense of the word, and they've got all the time in the world. [E, 247k words, warnings for violence, stockholm syndrome, sub kylo & dom hux]

- Please Remember I Love You by @bumblebae8 After murdering Snoke, Kylo Ren flees alongside Rey, returning to the Reistance and to his mother after ten years. They at once begin strategizing on how to take down the corrupt and evil First Order. [M, 65k words, no warnings, redeemed ben, skywalker family drama]

- Children of War by @starryartemis​ After a complicated diplomatic mission went awry, General Hux and Kylo Ren accidentally find themselves tasked with their most difficult mission: becoming parents. Despite their complex relationship, they both agree that raising an offspring will help bring glory to the First Order. Their original vision of a united family quickly falls apart as Hux and Ren cannot see eye to eye in what they want the future to hold. [E, 162k words, warnings for violence, kylux science babies, slow burn]

- I Should Live in Salt for Leaving You Behind by Asrael_Valtiri Of course, he’d betrayed Ren, to save the Order. To save himself and his people.To try to save Ren, in a way.Strange, Hux thought, closing his eyes against the glare of the overhead lighting. He pretended that the wetness escaping the corner of his eye was from the brightness. He failed.Stupid, he amended. Stupid, Armitage. [E, 65k words, no warnings, a TROS fix-it, kylo clones]

- Against All Odds by Kittens              Kylo really doesn't care for people, but he'll always help an animal in need. When he sees a dog covered in mud on a cold, rainy day, he can't help but try to help. What he didn't expect was for the dog to be a fox and the fox to be a man. [E, 49k words, warnings for violence, modern au, fox hux]

- Hadopelagic by DustOnBothSides [WIP] After a life of staying pharmaceutically heat-free, Hux has to allow his body to go through at least one natural cycle, lest there be consequences. He takes a shore leave and travels to a former omegan retreat, abandoned and all but forgotten after the fall of Old Republic. Ren, not knowing of Hux's predicament, decides to follow, suspecting treason. He finds something else instead. [E, 33k words, omega hux & alpha kylo]

- Sup From My Mouth by @atlinmerrick​ [Kylux Adjacent] Dolly Oblonskaya never precisely introduces her old friend to her children’s new tutor, no. She does put one lonely man in a room with the other again and again and again...and to her delight Konstantin Levin and Francisco Garupe take care of the rest. Or, this is the story of how an idealistic young Russian aristocrat helps heal a mourning young Jesuit priest, one very cold Moscow winter. [E, 58k words, no warnings, Fransisco Garupe/Konstantin Levin]

- Lighting the Fuse by hey_honey "What is going on?" Phasma asked when Hux returned from his meeting with Leia looking pale. He stared at her. "The Queen's son agreed to marry a First Order official on one condition," he said. "And?" Phasma encouraged. "That official has to be me," he said. [E, 30k words, no warnings, omega ben & alpha armitage, mpreg, ben is ruler of naboo]

- Across the Stars, I am Home by @venetumdrabbler [WIP] Before leaving to go undercover in the First Order, Armitage Hux had made promises. Keep an eye and report when able to the republic, and later the resistance. Keep tabs on the dark force user Snoke. And most important of all: Bring Ben Solo home. So far Hux had managed, or was managing, 2 out 3. Then there is an awakening. [M, 42k words, no warnings, jedi armitage au, slow burn]

- Pro Nobis Solum by CarelessHux (AraSigyrn)     Kylo Ren wakes after Starkiller.  Alone. [M, 8k words, no warnings, post tfa au, established relationship]

- sisyphus rolls his boulder to the top by yogurtgun     While trying to convince Rey to turn to the Dark on the Steadfast, Kylo feels Hux's presence in the Force disappear. [T, 6.7k words, warnings for violence, tros fix-it, temporary character death]

- i can make your dreams come by claquesous It feels like the small hours of the morning, the blurry in-between Hux calls early and Kylo calls late. “Can’t even make it through the night without a pillow to hump, can you?” Hux sneers. [E, 3k words, no warnings, somnophilia, sub kylo & dom hux]

- Knot Finished by Ki_Ken_Tai_Ichi  Kylo learns a bit more about Arkanis physiology through practical demonstrations. [E, 2k words, no warnings, hux is alien, top hux & bottom kylo]

- 90 Day Fiancé by @bostarsky​ & @sunnywritesstuff​ “Maybe that means you’ll be more inclined to choose me,” Hux hints, glancing over at a drone buzzing by with a sneaky look on his face. Perfect, he’ll create as much support for himself with the public as possible. "What I choose doesn’t matter,” he croons, making it sound as romantic as he possibly can to hide the true meaning of the words. [E, 38.5k words, no warnings, alpha hux & omega kylo, kylo amidala, creepy snoke]

- What if We Tried Again? by @penpenhooray​ Perhaps, but did Pryde bother to check if he was actually dead?Armitage Hux may be many things, but a fool was not one of them. So rather than stay with the First Order and watch it burn, Hux decides that faking his death would be preferable, leaving him free to tie up his one loose end. His ex-husband, Kylo Ren. But what happens when Ren...isn't quite Ren anymore, but just as "dead" as Hux? What happens if they face their feelings surrounding their failed marriage? What if they dared to try again? [T, 2.7k words, no warnings, tros fix-it, mpreg & miscarriage]

- Where Do You Go When You're Lonely? by @vadianna​ Fresh off a grueling undercover mission on an unpleasant Outer Rim planet, Kylo Ren wants to eat, drink, and sleep. Unfortunately, Hux is sitting at the only bar in the area. Thinking that Hux is there to brief him, Kylo soon realizes that Hux is off-duty, and has also never seen him without his helmet on.  Things escalate, and the two wind up finishing Kylo's mission together as they both get to know each other. [E, 29.3k words, no warnings, false identity, bottom kylo & top hux]

- Team Hux or Team Ren? by AdamJensens General Hux overhears a conversation between stormtroopers that opens his eyes to a competition between the troops of the First Order. He discovers his subordinates are not only loyal and devoted but also obsessed – Hux has fans. So does Kylo Ren, and there's a kind of war going on between the two groups calling themselves Team Hux and Team Ren. What Hux doesn't know yet is that there's a third group solely focused on shipping the two co–commanders. There's fanfiction, fanart and all kinds of crazy theories. Shipping, as Hux will soon discover, is a serious business. [E, 11.5k words, no warnings, crack treated seriously, mutual pining]

- Under Covers of Darkness by Camellia Cook (thekurosakiconundrum) Alpha twins Ben and Kylo have a somewhat unusual arrangement with their mate Hux: they're together, all three of them, and it's not strictly a Hux-in-the-middle situation. [E, 3.3k words, no warnings, threesome, sibling incest alpha ben & alpha kylo & omega hux]

- Share the Load by @emperorsvornskr​ Hux runs into Kylo while dealing with his unique Arkanan biology- and Kylo is dealing with some self confidence issues. It's a match tailor made for the both of them. [E, 6.1k words, no warnings, alien armitage hux, trans kylo, eggs]

- Safety in his arms by @redcole​ Kylo knows it's time to bond with Hux, he just wants to make sure that his intentions are clear. After all, it isn't often that an omega courts an alpha. [M, 3.2k words, no warnings, omega kylo & alpha hux, mpreg]

- Horny Hearts by @rattlesnake777​ [Kylux Adjacent] Techie has a new flatmate called Matt and all he can really think about is doing it with him... [E, 18.3k words, no warnings, Clan Techie/Matt The Radar Tech, modern au, misunderstandings]

- Collars and Kisses by koi_boi Kylo loves his little fox and has missed him dearly after a long mission away. Hux, not so much, or so Kylo thinks. Then he actually thinks for once and comes to A Realization™. They fuck, they cuddle, then they get soft and tender. Disgusting. [E, 3.4k, no warnings, fox hux, fluff & smut, dom kylo & sub hux]

- the chancellor's gift by @thethespacecoyote​ Supreme Leader Kylo Ren goes on a mission to retrieve something invaluable for his lightsaber-obsessed chancellor. However, his plans for presenting the treasure to Hux are unfortunately derailed when a group of insurgents kidnap the chancellor and hold him hostage, threatening both Hux's life, and the life of their unborn pup. It seems, even years into their reign, that there are still enemies foolish enough to try to take from Kylo what's his. [M, 5.3k words, warnings for violence, alpha kylo & omega hux, mpreg, protective kylo]

- Entrapped by @kyluxtrashpit​ While searching for a mysterious Force artifact for Snoke, a squadron of Stormtroopers goes missing. Kylo insists on going out alone then, certain he can find and face down whatever might have killed them and succeed in getting the artifact. The creature responsible, however, has other plans for him. [E, 3.4k words, rape/noncon, tentacle sex, protective hux]

- Your Chain Around My Neck by @bastila-s​ After the council meeting about the Sith fleet, Kylo asks Hux to stay behind and "prove" he isn't a spy. [E, 3.6k words, no warnings but dubcon tag, power dynamics, smut, dom kylo & sub hux]

- Regret by @abraxas-drake​ Kylo tries to get Hux to relax under the guise of a work discussion. When things go terribly wrong, Hux must rely on the new Supreme Leader to save his life. [E, 3.8k words, warnings for violence and threats of noncon, alpha kylo & omega hux, protective kylo, forced into heat]

- Invasion by sigo Hux was seated at the long durasteel table in the Steadfast’s largest conference room, Enric Pryde on his left and Mitaka presenting his findings to the group standing on his right, when he felt it: Ren’s hands on his chest, running hot down his skin below his uniform. [E, 2.9k words, no warnings, pwp, bottom hux & top kylo, force sex, semi-public sex]

- In His Grasp by @cosleia​ Kylo Ren doesn't understand why General Hux is shirking his duty over a simple injury. When he tries to find out, though, he learns more than he bargained for...about the general, and about himself. [M, 4.1k words, post-tlj, pining, hand-feeding]

- Heat Sink by @sparrows-trashcan​ Kylo Ren is an omega but so is General Hux. While Hux doesn't mind everyone knowing that his preference is limited to male omegas Kylo Ren is shamed to feel the same. Everything changes after the Starkiller incident: Kylo Ren is in heat and there is only one person on the Finalizer who could possibly help him... [E, 4.2k words, no warnings, omega hux & omega kylo, smut]

- Distraction by @kyluxtrashpit​ Kylo needs a distraction from his hopeless pining over his co-commander, who he's sure he can never have. So he turns to the Knights of Ren to keep his mind - and body - busy. When Hux walks in on the events, however, Kylo learns that perhaps his feelings aren't a lost cause after all. [E, 3.6k words, no warnings, kylo/knights of ren, group sex]

- Between the Stars by Kittens The Finalizer's medical team does not want to deal with Kylo Ren. When he ends up injured during a mission, it's up to Hux to take care of him. It's not exactly what Hux is good at, but for Kylo it means everything. [T, 3.9k words, no warnings, hurt/comfort, bathing]

- Switch Up, Love Eternal by @onewhositswiththeturtles​ When Ren damages consoles aboard the Finalizer during a tantrum, Hux summons him for some much-deserved discipline. Perhaps there would be some hope for Ren learning the error of his ways if he wasn't such a whore for punishment. [E, 3.4k words, no warnings, dom/sub switching, smut]

- Across the Stars (To Find You) by Lady_Faulkner While on a mission for Snoke, Kylo Ren gets kidnapped by pirates and it's up to General Hux to track him down and rescue him before he's sold on the black market. Along the way, Hux discovers that his feelings of hatred for Kylo Ren have been masking another emotion altogether. [E, 10.9k, no warnings, kidnapping, hurt kylo]

- Doom's Desire by @nerdherderette​ Hux never expected to find a jewel worthy of the Empire's crown in an Outer Rim desert wasteland. [E, 10.3k words, no warnings, canon au, gladiator fighter kylo, emperor hux]

- Empire Day Miracle by coldashes         Kylo just wants to relax, to be surrounded by people is to be surrounded by the Force. Except this is the First Order's Empire Day officer party and things never go as well as one would hope. [E, 4.4k words, no warnings, pwp, identity mistakes, pre-tfa]

- Reptile Husbandry by koi_boi Hux is an accomplished researcher who's having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad time in the field. He stumbles into a cave filled with secrets and one very large, very curious snake. Hux gets fucked in more ways than one. [E, 13.4k words, no warnings, modern/fantasy au, naga kylo & researcher hux, smut]

- Utapaun Christening by @mcducklet-blog​ Kylo Ren is determined to ensure that his children are the strongest creatures in the galaxy. Armitage Hux is willing to go along with it.Neither of them is ready for what that entails. [T, 6.6k words, no warnings, mpreg, knights of ren, peril]

- so it goes by @msbyjckals​ [WIP] Hux wakes to feel a pair of warm, calloused hands covering his. He doesn’t remember much, just the mission brief, the landing, and the cold. [M, 2.9k words, no warnings, starkiller rescue]

- Rumor Mill by @theweddingofthefoxes​ Everybody has their own suspicions about what Kylo Ren and General Hux get up to in private, but the truth is far more tender than anyone would guess. [G, 1.2k words, no warnings, fluff, cuddling]

- The One with the Eggs by sigo                 Hux turned on his heel, but hardly made it two steps before running straight into Kylo Ren. He knew his face betrayed his dismay. He didn’t have time for this. “I apologize, Ren, but I must be on my way.” Hux stepped to the side and Ren stepped in front of him again. Hux shivered as he felt another dropping sensation inside himself. This time the ‘drop’ completed its path — the inside of his pants was wet, cold gel trickling at a glacial pace down his thighs. Of course, that was nothing compared to what lay ahead. “Ren,” He said sharply. His voice was higher, raising in pitch the way it always did when he was panicked. “I am ill. Let me through.” Ren spoke through his ridiculous helmet, voice distorted. “We have a meeting.” [E, 4.8k, no warnings, alien hux, eggs, bottom kylo & top hux]

- Shadow Of Your Heart by @pangolinpirate​ & @redcole​ & @starkillersbae​ [WIP] After the fall of the empire Luke Skywalker fought a rising evil in the outer rim, a villain named Snoke who tormented his young nephew. With Snoke defeated, Leia sent her son to be trained as part of the new order of jedi, in the hopes that it would keep him safe. [E, 22.7k words, no warnings, omega kylo & alpha kylo, mpreg]

- Clear From Far Away by @pizzzazlut​ “But most of all, curse Kylo bloody Ren for having a chest that sparked pure, unadulterated arousal that has Hux humping his pillow like a fucking virgin.” Or the one where Hux is just trying to get off but his Supreme Leader just won't leave him alone. [E, 1.8k words, no warnings but dubcon, pillow humping]

- Tripped Over A Mouse Droid by @milarca​ & @ranebowstitches​ Hux gets injured while working, and Kylo finds him in the medbay. Who knew mouse droids could be so dangerous? [G, 3k words, no warnings, hurt/comfort, alpha kylo & omega hux]

- with you by @msbyjckals​ “You know I love you, right?” Ren said. “Of course I know that, I’ve always had you; you’ve always been mine.” [T, 1k words, no warnings, sleepy cuddles, soft domestic fluff]

- Unexpected Avenues by @sinceyouaskedmeforataleof​ [WIP, Mitaka/Hux] No one wanted to take this particularly grisly task, but Dopheld is glad it fell to him when he realises that all is not as it seems. Can he make a new life on the run with his ex, now that everything he thought he knew has been turned upside down? [E, 84k words, omega hux & alpha kylo & alpha mitaka, mpreg, post-tros]

- Who Needs The Galaxy When There's You? by Mesmeret         Kylo is a simple, lonely smuggler with no one since his accident a decade ago. Or so he thought before his twelve year old daughter retrieves him to help out his long forgotten husband with a bothersome heat. [E, 7.7k words, no warnings, alpha kylo & omega hux, amnesia, smuggler kylo & mandalorian hux]

- By the Will of the Gods by @darktenshi17​ Armitage is chosen to be a sacrifice to his gods in return for his village's protection. It's not the gods who find him out in the woods. [E, 1.9k words, no warnings but dubcon, fantasy/medieval au,

- The Fall of Yesterday by @sinceyouaskedmeforataleof​  [WIP] Seven years after Exegol, a nameless sailor works a thankless job onboard an Arkanis pearl harvester and fails to forget all the things he has lost. When the ship arrives at a new port all he wants to do is find a place to sleep through his shore leave. He might find more than that. [E, 10k words, no warnings, tros fix-it, alpha kylo & omega hux]

- Special Delivery by DaisyChainz Hux orders a toy that's supposed to be 'discreetly packaged', but when his hot mailman brings it directly to his front door, he finds out it is definitely not. [E, 3.3k words, no warnings, modern au, smut]

- Most Wanted by @pizzzazlut​ When the most prolific serial killer the city of Arkanis has ever seen is finally arrested and awaiting trial, it takes two of the cities most respected lawyers to represent the culprit and the victims. The only problem is that Kylo Ren and Armitage Hux haven't interacted since law school and will now have to work against each other to win the career-building case of a lifetime. Or The one where Kylo and Hux are rival lawyers with too much history but an equal amount of hate for Snoke. [E, 12.6k words, warnings for violence, modern au, murders and blood]

- Devotion by @kyluxtrashpit​ The Emperor loves to hear about his devoted hound's successful missions, ideally in as much detail as possible. Kylo does not disappoint. [E, 1.9k, no warnings, smut, emperor hux & hound kylo]

- three's a crowd by @thethespacecoyote​ Ren Prime catches Ben sneaking a First Order cadet onboard, and decides an unorthodox kind of punishment is in order. [E, 1.4k words, no warnings, ren prime, smut, voyeurism]

- If we have each other (the world is ours to conquer) by                    thereisnocowboyemoji “You think, what, that I have feelings for her?” “Please, Ren, do not dare try to insult my intelligence.” [G, 1.3k, no warnings, married kylux, mpreg, jealousy]

- In the Vents by @kyluxtrashpit​ Hux returns from his shift to find the bottom half of Kylo sticking out of the heating vent. Kylo is stuck and Hux isn't one to let opportunities pass him by. [E, 2k words, no warnings, pwp]

- the monster in your bed by @thethespacecoyote​ In the dead of night, something terrifying and lascivious comes to a sleeping General Hux. [E, 2k words, no warnings, consensual noncon roleplay, sub hux & dom kylo]

- Old Hornington Rides Again by oorsprong “Don’t be vulgar.” Of course he remembered. The embarrassing nickname had somehow become part of the whole taboo. Sex in the conference room in the early hours; Hux naked but for his boots and his hat and taunting Kylo with dirty talk. Kylo worshiped his cock in those days, treated it with reverence. “I could do it again.” [E, 1.3k words, no warnings, smut, old married kylux]

- His Purpose by partialresonance When Hux hears Snoke's voice in his mind, he thinks it's a caffeine hallucination. Until the voice plants an insidious purpose that Hux has no choice but to fulfill. Thankfully, Kylo is there to save him. Little does he know that the sinister presence was targeting him all along. [M, 5.6k words, no warnings, suicide attempt, mind manipulation, love confessions]  

- Mariner’s Hollo by Eirean Whilst on a diplomatic mission, Kylo is invited to take part in the planet’s ancient ritual, and demands that the Grand Marshall accompany him. Said Grand Marshall is deeply unimpressed by the whole thing. [E, 9.7k words, no warnings, enemies to lovers, smut]

- Let It Happen by @pizzzazlut​ Armitage Hux re-analyzed all his life choices up to this point and could not come up with anything as careless as this. Or the one where Ren joins Kylo and Hux in bed because he doesn't like being left out. [E, 2k words, ren prime, threesome]

- Come On And Slam by @thediktatortot​ Hux and Kylo invite Ren Prime into their chambers and get more than they bargain for. [E, 1.9k words, no warnings, ren prime, threesome]

- A Passing Madness by moreless “It’s a gift,” says Ren simply, folding his large hands behind his back. His gaze moves between the lightsaber and Hux. “It used to belong to the Jedi traitor Mace Windu. It reminded me of you.” Two steps forward, one step back. Another step back. That's how their relationship works. Even now. [T, 1.9k words, no warnings, duel of the fates au, power dynamics]

- Our Impeccable Leadership by roseofgalaxies The Supreme Leader and his treacherous General have begun to collaborate with unexpected success. There's only one problem: Ren's stopped wearing a shirt. [E, 4.8k words, no warnings, lego holiday special, body worship]

- Giving In by Kyram (BrokenApril) Hux has a mission. Millions of lives are on the line, yet Ren's presence teases him. He's desperate to give in even if his job will become all the harder. [T, 2.2k words, no warnings, touch starvation, force sensitive hux]

- to lay your armor down by surrenderer Once in a while, the Supreme Leader likes to wear his Chancellor’s greatcoat around the Capitol building. [M, 661 words, no warnings, role reversal, force sensitive hux & force null kylo]

- Benefits of Force Sensitivity by Kittens After the surprising change in his relationship with Ren, Hux has a lot to think about. But they also have a mission to complete and that may have unintended consequences. [M, 4.3k words, no warnings, force sensitive hux, cuddling]

[hpanimagusfest]

Animagus Masterlist - Creators Revealed

We would like to thank everybody who has made this fest such a success, whether as a prompter, creator, or reader! We hope the featured fics, art, and podfics have brought you happiness in these crazy times we’re living in. Now, without further ado, may we proudly present the HP Animagus Fest 2021 Masterlist.

ART

Title: The Whirling Ways of Stars That Pass Artist: Bluebutter @bluebutter-art Rating: Gen Art Medium: Digital Art Pairing: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Prompt: #30 Summary:

Being a polar bear Animagi makes Harry crave holidays and time in icy places like Iceland and the North Pole, which is why Harry and Draco decide to spend their first holiday together to see the beautiful Northern Lights. There's just one tiny problem: Draco hates the cold.

That's okay though. He can get warm cuddling in his lover's soft fur.

See on AO3

PODFICS

Title: [Podfic] Harry's Wolves by dracogotgame Podficcer: Thunder_of_Dragons @thunder-of-dragons Original Author: dracogotgame Rating: Gen Length: 12 minutes Pairing: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Summary: 

Harry wakes up to an empty bed and wolves in the garden.

Listen on AO3

Title: [Podfic] Of mammals, birds and reptiles by Jessa_yeah Podficcer: Thunder_of_Dragons @thunder-of-dragons Original Author: Jessa_yeah Rating: Gen Length: 12 minutes Pairing: Hermione Granger/Ginny Weasley, Rolanda Hooch/Minerva McGonagall/Pomona Sprout Summary: 

Post-war Hogwarts. A small note appears on the announcement board in the hall, offering extracurricular courses. Ginny and Hermione sign up. Something new builds from there - something good. A story about healing, growth, hope, love and comfort.

Listen on AO3

Title: [Podfic] I Loved You Like The Fall Of Rome by pansexual_intellectual Podficcer: bluedreaming @porcelainsalt Original Author: pansexual_intellectual Rating: Mature Length: 1 hour, 24 minutes Pairing: Regulus Black/Lily Evans Summary: 

Lily Evans looks at Regulus Black, across a vast, seemingly uncrossable, expanse, and thinks maybe. Eyes lingering over green-and-silver, and a heartbreakingly beautiful boy amidst them all, she thinks, I wonder.

Listen on AO3

FICS

Title: Old wounds never fully heal  Author: Lillycatdani11 @alyssadani19 Rating: Teen Word Count: 1,008 Pairing: Sirius Black/Hermione Granger  Prompt: #14 Summary: 

Sirius helps Hermione after her bad day at work.

Read on AO3

Title: Saved by a snake Author: Jessa_yeah @thefisherqueen Rating: Gen Word Count: 2,003 Pairing: Minerva McGonagall/Poppy Pomfrey Prompt: #99 Summary: 

Barely a month into her new job at Hogwarts, Poppy Pomfrey spots a kitty in trouble. She rushes to help - but the 'kitty' in question has some opinions on this.

Read on AO3

Title: Keep Me Close Author: MarchnoGirl @drarryruinedme7 Rating: Explicit Word Count: 2,082 Pairing: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Prompt: #32 Summary: 

Draco Malfoy is always tidy. Perfect. Not a strand of hair out of place. Enter Harry Potter and a certain quality of his…

Read on AO3

Title: Sign Author: Samunderthelights @samunderthelights Rating: General Word Count: 2,511 Pairing: Teddy Lupin/James Sirius Potter Prompt: #124  Summary: When Teddy had rejected his kiss, James didn’t think things could get any more embarrassing than that. But when - after months of hard work - he finally transforms into his Animagus form for the first time, things get a lot more embarrassing.

Read on AO3

Title: What We Find Beneath it All Author: SumthinClever @welcome-to-fandomonium Rating: Explicit Word Count: 4,591 Pairing: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Prompt: #29 Summary:

 Harry's animagus is an octopus. He eventually convinces Draco to join him beneath the Black Lake and they explore what hides beneath the lake and each other.

Read on AO3

Title: as the crow flies Author: saltwatergarden @talkingtravesties Rating: Teen Word Count: 5,452 Pairing: Draco/Harry Prompt: #84  Summary:

 Harry Potter is a lot of things - hero of the Wizarding World, best friend to Auror extraordinaire Ron Weasley and certifiable genius Hermione Granger, heir to the Sleekeazy potions empire. He is also an Animagus, like his father and godfather before him. Problem is, he hasn't quite mastered the task of transforming back into his human form. Bigger problem is, he's just been captured by Draco Malfoy's owl.

Read on AO3

Title: Hoarding Day Author: Archaic_Nepenthes @mod-and-his-flight Rating: Teen Word Count: 6,133 Pairing: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Prompt: #1 Summary: 

Dragon Appreciation Day is something else when it comes to appreciating Draco Malfoy.

Read on AO3

Title: Recurring Theme Author: miscnine @unstrrdy Rating: Gen Word Count: 6,736 Pairing: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Prompt: #27 Summary: 

Draco just wanted to go home. Just as he was gathering himself—at least, enough to go on and do exactly that, he was startled by a particularly harsh ripple in the apparition point—then four things happened.

Draco wants a lot of things. He wants to redeem himself to the public eye as foolishly hopeless as it sounds. He wants his mother to leave him out of her plans to reclaim control over her life. He wants to get his shit together more than anything. At least, he did. Now, he's fallen prey to his own predator and constantly has to reign in the greedy dragon that wanted something from Harry Potter—"who, by the way, had just come back to England after seven years of healing dragon tamers in Romania and finally getting the therapy he needed, did you know that? Did you?”

Read on AO3

Title: The Owl in Myth and Magic Author: Aneiria @aneiria-writes Rating: Mature Word Count: 7,156 Pairing: Hermione Granger/Draco Malfoy Prompt: #85  Summary: 

Draco Malfoy has a secret, and if he wants to keep it that way, he’s going to have to show Hermione Granger how to have one too.

Even if it is a secret so complex and dangerous that they’re going to have to spend more time together than either of them had planned for their eighth year of Hogwarts...

Read on AO3

Title: Harry Potter and the Mysterious Snowy Owl Affair Author: Ladderofyears @ladderofyears Rating: Teen Word Count: 8,683 Pairing: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Prompt: Self-prompt Summary: 

Harry Potter is the newly promoted Head Officer for the Department of Magical Creature Regulation, and he is passionate about his work protecting vulnerable animals who can’t advocate for themselves. An added benefit of the job is the close relationship that he had developed with his colleague, Wizengamot prosecution barrister Draco Malfoy. Harry’s life is happy and he feels satisfied with his place in the world.

Abruptly, Harry’s happy existence is thrown into disarray when a small snowy owl starts dropping tip-offs about magical creature crimes to Grimmauld Place.

Harry isn’t sure what to think. Is his benefactor a friend or foe? Why are they making such stringent efforts to conceal their identity? Draco doesn’t seem concerned, but Harry can’t help but feel intrigued by the mystery. Who is the wizard behind the owl?

Read on AO3

Title: ANI101: Introduction to Animagus Author: Aelys_Althea @aelysalthea Rating: Mature Word Count: 12,314 Pairing: Sirius Black & Remus Lupin (Gen), Marauders (Gen) Prompt: #69 Summary: 

Remus has secrets. Lots of secrets, but one in particular that Sirius is determined to sniff out. When he, James, and Peter put their detective skills to action, they discover a truth far beyond what any of them could have imagined.

What they would make of that truth, though - that was the real question. Sirius was nothing if not a dog with a bone, and he was determined to do something about it.

Read on AO3

Title: Commander Author: Cassiopeias_shadow @cassiopeiasshadow Rating: Explicit Word Count: 14,167 Pairing: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Prompt: #44 Summary:

There was a hiss to his right. It was him. Potter. The adder with the lightning bolt on his back. Draco nearly cried with relief.

“Potter, thank fuck, let me - oh,” Draco said, once he had crawled underneath the stone, into the crevice where Potter was hiding. It was soaked in blood, just like the rest of the room, and the blood was coming from slashes on Potter’s white, scaly belly. Draco picked the snake up and cradled it to his chest. It wrapped itself weakly around his arm and nestled up to the warmth of Draco’s body, barely moving.

“That’s right,” Draco said, trying his best to sound comforting. The snake’s heart beat against his palm, unbearably precious. Draco’s cheeks were wet.

Read on AO3

Title: Hibou Author: worldcrawler @worldcrawlerhp Rating: Explicit Word Count: 15,075 Pairing: Hermione Granger/Draco Malfoy Prompt: #77 Summary:

"Draco Malfoy had squared with the fact that he rarely succeeded in things at first. His whole life could be read as a series of failures that eventually became successes.

It was no surprise then, in retrospect, that he had failed to become an animagus not once, but twice before finally succeeding."

This is a story about failure and understanding, about success and honesty, and about two idiots in love trying to solve two very different mysteries - brought together through a series of chance encounters in the highland forests.

Read on AO3

Title: Dog-Star and Lion-Heart Author: unspeakable3 @unspeakable3 Rating: Teen Word Count: 15,932 Pairings: Regulus Black & Sirius Black, Sirius Black & James Potter Prompt: #98  Summary: 

After Sirius leaves home, the only way that Regulus will allow his brother anywhere near him is when Sirius is in dog-form. Regulus has no idea that the Grim-like creature he shares secrets and bacon sandwiches with is his brother. He has no idea, that is, until he tries to say goodbye to ‘Snuffles’ for the last time, and his canine friend finally reveals his human form.

Read on AO3

Title: Worth Sharing Author: flightytemptress27 @flightytemptress27 Rating: Teen Word Count: 16,829 Pairings: Teddy Lupin/James Sirius Potter, Teddy Lupin/Victoire Weasley, Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Prompt: #23 Summary:

Despite what it originally seemed, Teddy has inherited his father's lycanthropy. Things are very different for Teddy, but perhaps not always in the best way.

James Sirius Potter loves his best friend Teddy and just wants to do what he can to care for him, even if it's dangerous.

A coming of age story beginning with Teddy's third year at Hogwarts and ending with James' final year. A story in which Harry does his absolute best as a godfather, Teddy struggles to accept himself, and James flies.

Read on AO3

Title: The Last of What the World Left You Author: xanthippe74 @xanthippe74 Rating: Teen Word Count: 25,153 Pairing: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Prompt: Self-prompt Summary: 

If the wizarding world won’t give Draco a second chance, he has a plan to survive: live in his Animagus form, a carrion crow, in the Forbidden Forest. Not only does Harry Potter come along and ruin it, he’s radiating a strange aura of power that Draco should probably fear, but doesn’t. With nowhere to go and a Life-Debt to his mother that Potter insists on repaying, Draco puts himself into the hands of the reclusive Boy Who Lived. Will the bleak corner of Yorkshire where Potter makes his home be another dead end or an unexpected refuge?

Read on AO3

Title: Night Visitor Author: Kiwi05622 @kiwi05622 Rating: Explicit Word Count: 111,960 Pairing: Hermione Granger/Draco Malfoy Prompt: Self-prompt Summary:

His apology came to her on the wings of moonlight. Her response returned to him in delayed indifference. This is Draco Malfoy's journey seeking forgiveness from his past misdeeds and finds redemption through their letters while a prisoner of Azkaban.

Read on AO3

[gemmaswriting]

Anidala Fanfiction Recommendations!!

I’ve been asked for a long time for my fanfiction recommendations, so I’ve finally taken the time to compile them. If there are any you love that I missed out (this includes Vaderdala!) leave them as a reply so we can all have a good time reading together. 

Writer: Shelivesfree (fanfiction profile) This wonderful girl has some of the most amazing Anidala stories I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Unfortunately, a lot of them have been hiatus for a while but her Boy Next Door trilogy has two amazing parts completed. 

The stories I recommend: 

“The Boy Next Door”: “When Padme Naberrie returns to her home after 10 years, the last thing she expects to find is her childhood friend, Anakin Skywalker; the boy next door. But 10 years is a long time, and he has changed more than she is prepared for. How will she react when little Ani is now a grown man, impulsive, handsome and completely infatuated with her? Modern AU.”

“The Girl from Harvard”: “Sequel to ‘The Boy Next Door’ Absence makes the heart grow fonder. It also makes it grow more paranoid. Padme is in her last year of Harvard. Anakin has just started at the University of Chicago. Though they won't admit it, their long-distance relationship is taking it's heavy toll. Will their love prevail or will the distance prove too much for both of them? Sequel to The Boy Next Door. Modern AU.”

“look into my eyes, that's where my demons hide”:  ”Each time he comes back to her, a little piece of him is missing... left out there, in the field, with his brothers. She can see it in the way he smiles and it doesn't reach his eyes. In the way he cries to himself when he thinks she's not awake. And all she can do is hold him. Modern AU.”

“I Know Your Type”  “Am I dead?" It slips out, accidentally. She turns her head towards me, a confused look on her face and tips her head. "Excuse me?" Flashing her an impish grin, I lean casually against the wall. "I must have died and gone to heaven, because you look like an angel." The look she gives me is far from impressed. "Do you use that with all the girls, or am I just lucky?"

“we both know what we want, so why don't we fall in love?” “Rhythmic Gymnast Padme Naberrie has dreamed of being an Olympian since she was five years old. Now, after years and years of training and preparations, she's finally made it to Rio, and nothing is going to stand in the way between her and a gold medal. Except a certain Canadian beach volleyball player, perhaps.”

“Infinite” “ My bounty is as boundless as the sea, my love as deep; the more I give to thee, the more I have, for both are infinite.”

“for a moment” “And, just for a moment, all the worries and concerns that troubled the young couple cease to exist. Fade away to just this. Husband and wife. Asleep. Dreaming of the sweet little life they will soon bring into the world and into their hearts. Set somewhere in ROTS.”

“Procrastination” “Padmé is busy with a new bill she must bring before the next Senate meeting. Her husband has other ideas, it would seem.”

“There’s a million reasons I should give you up”  “Padmé struggles to deal with Anakin's frequent departures for weeks, even months, at a time during the Clone Wars. It's in these moments she contemplates the practicality of their marriage. Grief-stricken with loneliness, she stumbles across something she wrote a long time ago... a list of sorts. The find brings about a whole host of emotions she'd rather not deal with.”

“all I need is you” “It was her fault. His pain, his jealousy, his insecurity. It was all her fault. Padme looked up at the beautiful man in front of her, her husband, her Ani, and decided she needed to make him remember. Remind him of how much she loved him. Because no one, no man in the entire galaxy, could take the place of Anakin Skywalker.” 

“Her” “A glimpse into the Cosmic Force after Darth Vader's redemption and return to the Light Side. Anakin Skywalker is consumed by guilt and Obi-wan and Yoda are there to appease him. But it's been twenty-four years and all he wants is to see her.” 

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  Writer: SphinxScribe (Fanfiction profile/ Tumblr account @sphinxscribe ) This fantastic writer has many, many alternate takes on the plot of Revenge of the Sith - often allowing our favourite couple to have a happy ending. Their writing captures the world of Star Wars perfectly. 

The stories I recommend: 

“Where Catalysts Stand Down” “Palpatine issues Order 66, and Anakin and Padmé flee Coruscant. ROTS AU. Anakin/Padmé, Anidala.”

“Viability’s Edge” “Anakin tells Obi-Wan the truth. ROTS AU. Anakin/Padmé, Anidala.”

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Writer: Disco Shop Girl (Fanfiction profile) This writer’s take on Anidala is so well written within every story of theirs I have read. They truly capture their dynamic and relationship perfectly. 

The stories I recommend:

“Your helmet cracked” “He'd been restrained, forced to watch while her helmet cracked and the Mon Calamari sea water threatened to drown her before his eyes. Now they're free. And alone. Set at the end of the Clone Wars season 4 Water War arc.” 

“Order 66-S” “The order was to exterminate all Jedi: Past, Present and Future. Captain Rex has a different plan. Order 66-S: to save General Skywalker.”

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Writer: Rogue Darth Skywalker (Fanfiction profile/ Tumblr - @roguedarthskywalker) This wonderful person has been one of the biggest supporters of my own writing for a long time and I value them immensely! They have many delicious Anidala/Vaderdala stories for you to obsess over for hours and hours. I highly recommend following both profiles linked above.

The stories I recommend:

“Pin up Problems” “He hated the nose art. He hated seeing others degrade her other exceptional qualities by depicting her as some pin up girl. He hated thinking about how many other beings across the stars fantasized about her in such a way. At the same time, he can't deny that the art makes her look… hot. He can't deny that the sight turns him on.”

“Letting Go” “It was their custom. Every year on that fateful day, Anakin would make his way to the cemetery with his children and seek out the mausoleum where she rested."

“Far from Perfect” “Darth Vader is dead. Anakin is redeemed and lives on Naboo with Padme and their children. But not all happy endings are perfect.”

“Far from Easy” “Sequel to Far From Perfect. Redeemed Anakin Skywalker tries to make things right with his wife and kids.

“Perfect” “Happy Family style AU post ROTS. Padme wakes up in the middle of the night and ponders the most recent events in her life.”

“A Dangerous Fantasy” “Pure Smut. Padme helps Anakin fulfil a fantasy he has had since they were married- one that involves the Jedi Council Chambers.”

“Untitled” “Anakin and Padme deal with having to tell their young twins they are having another baby.”

“Strictly Professional” “There are times she hates that she has to resort to this- that rather than being in a long term relationship with someone, she chose to instead pay someone for sex. Modern AU.”  

“Out of his Depth” “I fought in a war. I commanded legions of soldiers against battle droids. I think I can handle my own four-year-old twins."

“Love and Jealousy” “Anakin gave the binders an experimental tug, testing his chances of escaping. There was none. A light chuckle left his lips after a few moments, letting his head fall back to rest on the chair. What a compromising position for a Jedi Knight to be in. Handcuffed in a respected senator's bedchambers practically naked… oh, how the holonews would rave should the story get out!” 

“Against all Odds” “He shouldn't be here. The election was only a few weeks away and the final debate was due in the next few days. There were so many other things he should be doing. He shouldn't be here, in enemy territory wrapped in the arms of the woman his boss despised. Modern AU. Smut.” 

“What we Hope is Never Found” “The impending existence of a recording of them together held dangers that went a little deeper than if they were found naked and tangled together in her office or on his cruiser. The physical proof of their relationship would cause an uproar if it were discovered. But she trusted Anakin. Smut.”

“It was Found” “Sequel to What We Hope is Never Found.”

“Things that go bump in the night” “Luke and Leia think there is a ghost in their home. Their parents know better.”

“Preparations” “She couldn't wait to meet their little ones. It hadn't been too long since they learned she was having twins, and as stressful as that idea was at first, she was quickly growing accustomed to the idea of having two perfect little babies. Her husband, however, seemed to be taking it a little worse than her.” 

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Writer: Skywalkersamidala (Archive of our Own profile/ Tumblr @markantonys) I absolutely adore the Anidala stories created by this author whether they’re aus or canon! They nail the couple’s dynamic throughout their many wonderful stories. 

The stories I recommend:

“Snow Place like Home” “For genre-typical convoluted reasons involving ill-timed blizzards, Padmé is forced to spend the holidays at Anakin's house. Anakin isn't as upset about his boss staying with him for Christmas as he probably should be.“

“Soulmates R Us” “Anakin works at a toy store, and single-mother-of-twins Padmé is becoming one of the store's best customers.”

“Heirs of Light and Darkness” “After escaping the Jedi purge two years ago made him the most wanted fugitive in the galaxy, Anakin Skywalker has at last been captured by the Empire. He expects to be killed, but Lady Padmé Amidala, the imperial heir, has other ideas.”

“Friendly Competition” “Playing Quidditch is awfully difficult when you’re in love with the rival Seeker. Snapshots of Anakin and Padmé’s 7 years at Hogwarts.“

“Perfect” “The war is over, Luke and Leia are five years old, and Anakin and Padmé finally have the peaceful life and big family they've always dreamed of. But their life is about to get a little less peaceful and their family a little bigger.“

“Nos Cedamus Amori“ “Anakin is a gladiator and a slave. Padmé is the wife of the Roman emperor's heir. Circumstances should never even allow them to meet, let alone fall in love.“

“I Do Take Two” “Thirty years after their clandestine wedding on Naboo, Anakin and Padmé decide to finally do the proper wedding ceremony they never got to have, with all their friends and family present.“

“Flat Tire” “Who knew something as simple as getting a flat tire could change the entire course of your life?“

“Strays” “Anakin had always had a penchant for taking in strays.”

“Five weddings and a funeral” “Padmé's feeling gloomy about her perpetual singleness, but everything changes when she meets an attractive stranger at her sister's wedding.“

“Pipe Dream” “Padmé's new plumber is the most attractive human being she's ever laid eyes on, so naturally, she keeps faking plumbing emergencies so she can keep seeing him.“

“Birthdays and Birth days” “Anakin gets a birthday surprise — two of them, in fact.“

“Spouses with Benefits” “Anakin and Padmé wake up after a wild night in Vegas and discover they accidentally got married—and that Ahsoka posted about it all over social media, so now every single person they know is texting and calling them to offer congratulations. They decide to save face by pretending the marriage was totally 100% intentional and not a drunk mistake at all, keeping up the charade for six months, and then quietly getting divorced. But a lot can change in six months…“

“Two Halves Make a Whole” “Anakin is the single dad of Luke. Padme is the single mom of Leia. Luke and Leia meet in kindergarten and become best friends. The rest is history.“

“Home” “In which "Darth Vader" is no more than Anakin's playtime alter ego (happy Skywalker family AU)“

“Someday” “At age fourteen, Padme receives a marriage proposal from the nine-year-old boy next door and tells him to ask her again when she's thirty. Surely he'll have forgotten all about it by then.“

“Across the Centuries” “They meet each other in every century, but something always goes wrong before they can make it to happily-ever-after.”

“Madam President” “Between late nights and headaches and mountains of paperwork and fierce opposition from her political opponents, President Padmé Amidala already had enough on her plate. And then she just had to go and fall for one of her bodyguards, a relationship which would ruin her reputation and his career if anyone were to find out about it. Also, someone's trying to kill her.“

“Scars” “How do Anakin and Padmé go from "I love you" to "I do"? Missing scene from Attack of the Clones.”

“The Bet” “Anakin's had a crush on Padmé since fourth grade, and after putting up with his pining for seven years, Obi-Wan and Ahsoka are finally stepping in and making a bet that he can't ask her to junior prom in the spring. Meanwhile, Padmé is realizing that Anakin isn't as annoying as she'd always thought. In fact, her feelings towards him are starting to go in quite the opposite direction...”

“Three” “His and Padmé’s first wedding anniversary isn’t going nearly as well as Anakin had hoped it would. Until, suddenly, it’s so much better than he could have ever imagined.“

“The Anakin Disaster” “Padmé is mortified upon waking up beside her strictly platonic childhood best friend Anakin Skywalker the morning after a drunken one-night stand. A couple weeks later, she discovers that's the least of their problems.“

“Will You Fake Marry Me?” “Anakin's boss may or may not have accidentally given her family the impression that she's engaged to him. Anakin may or may not be pleased about the situation”

“Aggressive Negotiations” “Empress Amidala invites Lord Vader to her private rooms to persuade him to form an alliance with the Empire. Her methods are very effective.”

“Troubling Implications” “Perhaps he hated himself for it—Padmé thought he probably did—but he came that night (several times, in fact). And the night after that, and the next one, and the next, until it became a habit that neither of them seemed especially inclined to break. (Sequel to "Aggressive Negotiations")

“Imperial Obligations” “Padmé's advisors suggest that she get rid of Vader and make a politically advantageous marriage. The Empress is less than pleased. (Sequel to "Aggressive Negotiations" and "Troubling Implications")”

“Welcome Home” “Anakin Skywalker closes his eyes on the face of his son. When he opens them again, he is in Naboo, and someone is waiting for him.“

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Writer: Shawn30 (Fanfiction profile) The one, the only, the deservedly famous! I think every Anidala fan is aware of this f a n t a s t i c writer’s work. Deliciously smutty. Unbelievably well written. Unfortunately, many of their works have been left uncompleted for years but the stories are still worth reading!

 “Whisper” “Absence makes the heart grow fonder, but can also whither your soul and breed doubt in your heart. AP angsty erotica.”

“The Ties that Bind” “Given a brief period of time off during the Clone Wars, Padmé and Anakin visit her family at the Lake Country estate on Naboo. A family that still doesn't know they are married, although they are about to find out. Complete.” 

“The Light and the Dark” “Chapter 1 in the Hearts and Souls series. An unexpected Separatist attack 'accidentally' reunites two star-crossed lovers, giving them a brief moment of peace at a time of war. Complete.”

“Shadows of Winter” “Chapter 2 in the Hearts and Souls series. With six days to spend together celebrating their two year anniversary, Anakin and Padme travel separately to a remote planet in the Hoth system. Romance, passion, and danger await them. Complete.” 

 “Beloved” “Chapter 3 in the "Hearts and Souls" series. When faced with the most horrific news imaginable, Padme's utter desperation forces her to turn to Obi-Wan and even Chancellor Palpatine for help. Her greatest personal challenge awaits... Complete” 

 “Paradise” “The sequel to "Beloved." Following Padme's daring rescue of her husband, the Skywalker's return to Naboo for eight days to heal, unwind, spend time with family, and deal with their connection to the Dark Side of the Force.” 

 “Salvation” “After facing his moment of truth, Anakin and Padmé must finally deal with the consequences. Obi-Wan reveals a startling discovery. Complete” 

“Scandalous” “The sequel to Salvation. On the eve of Padmé Skywalker's official ascension to the role of Vice Chair of the Republic, Anakin steals her away for a wild vacation to Cloud City. Complete.”

“Sacred” “Chapter 2. Ahsoka and Jo'Seth grow closer. Padme's trip to the Jedi Temple on Republic business turns a bit more adventurous. Anakin and Obi-Wan have a heart to heart talk about moving forward.”

“Belonging” “A private afternoon lunch to catch up with an old friend during the Clone Wars reveals a great deal to ObiWan Kenobi. AP”

“Before the Seasons Change” “With the Darth Sidious finally defeated and the Clone Wars ended, Anakin and Padme consider what comes next in their lives. Anakin/Padme”

“Amor Vincit Omnia” “AU. After a three and a half year separation Vice Chair Amidala and Jedi Master Skywalker have some unfinished business as the Clone Wars have finally ended and Palpatine is dead.”

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If there’s any stories I missed, let me know!

[dewitty1]

Fic Recs Wrap Up  -  July 2020 (੭ˊ͈ ꒵ˋ͈)･*:.｡. .｡.:*･゜ﾟ･*☆

Redeem Me by Samayel

Two years after the events of Harry's sixth year at Hogwarts, Draco stumbles back into his life. Harry is a bitter and vengeful young man, Draco is a walking wreck...and who is helping who? Rec post 1, 2

Under Pressure by VivacissimoVoce

Harry Potter has quit magic and left the wizarding world. Draco, a top-notch Tracker, has been hired to find him and save his life. Rec post

Solder by Oakstone730

Seven years ago, Harry disappeared out of Draco and Scorpius's life without a trace after Harry's addictions destroyed his and Draco's marriage. Now, Harry’s back, and Draco wants to believe he’s changed. But Harry isn’t the only one haunted by the past. Rec post

The Promise of Summer by Omi_Ohmy

How was Harry supposed to know that coming back for eighth year would be so confusing? Everything is the same, and yet not the same. And nowhere is this more obvious than with Draco Malfoy. Harry finds himself once more watching and following Malfoy, trying to work him out. When they are drawn together to heal the castle, Harry doesn’t just find Malfoy - he also finds himself. Rec Post

Dwelling by aideomai

Curses, James and Lily Potter ride again, several Ministry balls, a teenage Summer of Love, a grim young adult dystopian winter, a few different Draco Malfoys, secrets and the problems re: not having any, alternate lives, impossible lives, real lives, allusions to Dirty Dancing, and just because it's not called the Mirror of Erised doesn't mean you shouldn't know better. Rec Post

Now My Neck Is Open Wide (begging for a fist around it) by LadySlytherin

Six months post-war, Harry meets Grayson Wenke, a famous Quidditch player. Harry believes he's found the love of his life, and a Happily Ever After ending suitable for the storybooks. When Grayson slowly goes from Prince Charming to a monster behind closed doors, Harry finds himself trapped, and alone, and fearing for his life. When Harry realizes he's pregnant, the opportunity for escape - and a real Happily Ever After - presents itself as none other than Draco Malfoy. The only question is if Harry is brave enough to take a chance, and strong enough to heal. Rec post

Of Fates Entwined: A Story of Love Lost and Found by taradiane

Harry Potter vanished without a trace from his home on a warm summer morning in June 2004. This is the story of how a random visit in a cafe on the other side of the world, six years later, proved that the ties which entwine our fates together can never be broken. Rec post

Conception of Dreams by FreakingCrups

Waking up naked in Malfoy's bed without the memory of what happened the night before is the least of Harry's problems. Malfoy is an Incubus and Harry is his mate and that one night comes with consequences: a conception. Now Harry has to get to know Malfoy on a deadline, while dealing with Death Eater threats. Sounds like another exciting year at Hogwarts for Harry Potter. Rec post

A Big Black Sky by AlexMeg @alxmeg

Draco shifts his head as he turns to look at Scorpius, his cheek touching the pillow. "Did you know that…" He pauses, his throat convulsing, and it sounds audible in the silence, besides Michael's steady, even breathing from the other bedroom.

Scorpius is staring back at him, in wait of something new to learn, a beautiful and intelligent child. He has Draco's mind. He has Draco's eyes and nose and mouth and hair. He is his. All his. All he has of Michael are his wild curls and the green of his eyes, and sometimes he looks into them and imagines that they aren't Michael's, but someone else's.

Draco leans his head closer, biting the quiver out of his lips before he breathes a laden and shuddering exhale, and he whispers, "You are my star in a big black sky." Rec post

Some other fics you might enjoy - (੭ु˙꒳˙)੭ु⁾⁾*✭

Slithering by astolat @astolat

Draco found the nest down in the Manor’s cellars, while he was clearing them out. Fic RecArt post

Modern Love  by Anonymous (written for  H/D Wireless Fest 2020) @hd-wireless

Harry Potter, of all people, knows that life isn’t always fair. And no one gets to be happy all of the time. But surely there’s something more—something better—than a rubbish Ministry job, and a lonely old house, and that feeling that everyone out there is doing a better job of living than Harry is.

And it really doesn’t seem fair that Draco Malfoy is back in Harry’s life, all of a sudden, and even though he’s wandless, and living with Muggles, and making his mother cry with his lifestyle choices, he’s happy. So what's he doing right, that Harry isn’t?

Because things don’t really change, do they? And if Harry can’t be happy, he’ll settle for a good night’s sleep, some posh antiques, and the opportunity to find out what Malfoy has been up to for all these years.

And that’s what starts it all. Our Love Song -  Harry and Draco enjoying a Sunday morning bus ride in London.  Don’t miss this amazing art that pairs perfectly with this fic!

Returning Tides by Anonymous (written for  H/D Wireless Fest 2020) @hd-wireless​

Is my timing that flawed? Our respect run so dry? Yet there's still this appeal That we've kept through our lives

Love Will Tear Us Apart - Art piece to accompany the fic ‘Returning Tides’, based on the song claim, 'Love Will Tear Us Apart' by Joy Division*****Harry's brooding while straddling a motorbike. Need I say more?

Blond Brew by Anonymous (written for  H/D Wireless Fest 2020) @hd-wireless​

A blond roast with soy milk makes Draco's morning, but a pair of green eyes makes his week.

A Different Kind of Meaning by Anonymous (written for  H/D Wireless Fest 2020) @hd-wireless​

The ceiling doesn't hold any answers, but there are cobwebs scattered across the corners with shadows tangled in their threads. The rug against his back is rough and scratchy, threadbare and devoid of colours other than various shades of brown. Harry takes it all in, absorbs the dingy and depressed state of his home. There's a pointed moment of decision, a note about to be played, a silence about to end, and then he rolls to his feet and sets to cleaning.

It's the first constructive thing he's done in years.

Isolated Thunderstorms and Scattered Showers by Anonymous (written for  H/D Wireless Fest 2020) @hd-wireless​

Post-war, Harry needs space. Everything is too much all at once, and time and time again, he finds himself pulling the invisibility cloak over his head, just for a bit of peace.

Returning for eighth year is hard, especially when you're considered a war hero, and your name is Harry James Potter. It's just that things go a little wonky when Harry starts following Malfoy, and finds that he can't (or doesn't want to) stop. ( Gift fic for meeeee!  ♡✧( ु•⌄• ) ♡ ) 

Thanks so much for reading and following! I hope you enjoy all these! I look forward to sharing more recs with y’all! 

xoxo Carey 💜💙💚💛🧡❤💕💖

｡ﾟ✶ฺ.ヽ(*´∀`*)ﾉ.✶ฺﾟ｡

[kimmibers]

@pancakewaffles-blog1 Thank you for you prompt of ‘ Angels and Demons’ I hope you enjoy reading this. Sorry it’s taken me a few days. 

Kim xx

His Angel

“So...It's a full moon tonight..”

“It is?-”

“Come on Sasuke, tell your best friend-”

“You call yourself that, not me-”

“Ha! You can't fool me we've been best friends since imps, and anyway don't change the subject. Where does the Prince of darkness go every full moon?”

“That's just a mystery for the Prince of Darkness to know, and you, my little imp friend to never find out.” Sasuke smirked walking away.

With the sun finally set Sasuke, the devils least favourite son, sneaked across the border of his fathers realm. It was easy, it shouldn't have been but after years of eluding the guards it had become second nature.

The human world is their mutual territory, where angels and demons can inflict their abilities and create havoc, in the case of Sasuke's kind, and whatever angels created. In his opinion their influence could seem endearing but he found it meddlesome. Why couldn't they just leave the humans alone? What did it matter what happened to they puny, insignificant little lives?

In the human realm the sun had set hours ago, the forest, their secret spot, bathed in natural light of the moon.

Being a mid autumns night every now and again a cloud would cover their natural light basking them in darkness. These were the moments Sasuke enjoyed the most, the unspoken minutes when darkness could take away all their inhibitions and allowed them to take actions you wouldn't have done in light.

“Sasuke-Kun.” He smiled, the first since the last full moon.

“Hinata.” He answered simply.  

“Were you spotted?” He couldn't help the small chuckle of arrogance escape at her innocent question.

“Am I ever?”

“Good.” She sighed in relief.

They sat then, side by side on the log conveniently placed by a storm a few years back. Actually, in all honesty the storm had been Sasuke on one particular rampage. She lent her head against his shoulder and they sat in silence, looking to the moon.

“Our fathers -”

“Please, not this again.” Sasuke rolled his eyes. “We've been going back and forth over this for years now.”

“I know, but, do you think they would ever accept-”

“A demon and angel? No, I don't.” He lifted her chin for her now sad eyes to meet his,”Hinata, I don't mean my honesty to hurt you. But our parents are both set In their ways, for eons now. They just can't and won't understand our friendship.”

“I know your right, but I want them to see the good in you, like I do.”

“You're such an...an angel.” He chuckled, “I'm a demon, dark spawn, what light could you possibly see in me?”

“You joke, but I get the feeling your serious.” Hinata's eyes widened at the realisation. Sasuke stayed quiet and lent back. “Your mother.”

Sasuke turned away from Hinata, her words stinging him like a swarm of wasps. Although he knew she had never, and would never mean to cause him pain.

“I-I'm not allowed to talk about her.” Sasuke stammered uncharacteristically.

“Your father?”

“Hmm.” He agreed.

“Perhaps,” Hinatas voice gently guiding his eyes back to her. “I could tell you about her.”

“She a tooth fairy now?” He gave a small chuckle, trying to desperately hide the emotions building within.

“A guardian angel.”

“Seems fitting.” He smirked.

As predicted, a cloud enveloped the moon, their only sauce of light, and now in darkness he could ask a question without witnessing her reaction.

“Does she remember me?” His voice sounding to his own ear like the small child he had been when she had lost her life to save his own.

His mothers actions on that fateful day had changed Sasuke's life and not necessarily for the better. With his father in a state of despair and depression from the grief of loosing the love of his entire existence, he had become a empty vessel. His heart darkened with bereavement, turning him to the swiftly to an evil path and eventually becoming the devil and ruler of the daemon realm. In the years thereafter his fathers hate had turned from the world, to it's soul occupier: Sasuke.

“She begged to become the guardian of the boy she now in her care. I think, she reminds her of you.”

“Me?” Sasuke frowned.

“He's much younger of course being 13-”

“You forgot charming-”

“Oh how brainless of me,” She chuckled, “Yes, he has a certain charm I suppose.” She admitted. “His life could be radiant with light, if he would only make the right choices.”

With the cloud dissipating, the moon once again caked them in its beams of light. They remained quiet then, in a comfortable silence, both simply enjoying the others company without the need fill the space with inconsequential blabbering.

Sasuke's mind wondered to their 1st encounter. A mission; To bring balance to the human realm at the time engrossed in war. Such a mission was unheard of, an angel and demon required to work together. Between them they had had to make decisions, some harder than others. Compromised, when plans had gone astray. A life saved and another to be greeted by their fellows in the afterlife. In that, most troublesome and complex of time their friendship had formed, trust earned; something rarely given by himself.

“Hinata?”

“Hmm?” She replied. He glanced towards her, judging her reaction. Her eyes were closed and face pointing towards the moon, if they were in the sun anyone would think she was savouring the suns warmth.

“Do you think-” He stopped himself, and took pause of his thoughts.

“What is is Sasuke-Kun?” She turned her body, facing him, their knees almost touching. He scrutinized the sky, waiting obediently for the next inevitable cloud to conceal the moon once more.

“Do you think” He began again, “You can fall in love without a heart?”

Even in the darkness he could feel her gaze seeking his own. The space between them becoming so intense and electric could of fuelled an entire city.

In her own way Hinata didn't answer his question with words. Instead, he felt one of her fingers tentatively touching his own in the gap between them on their log.

“You've turned my world on it's axis,” He confessed in the pitch-black forest, “What had once seemed right, now seems wrong.” His hand took hold of her small one in his own and their fingers interlocked. “You starve and near exhaust me with your willingness to put others before yourself. Everything I've done, I've done for you. I'd move the stars for no-one; but you.” He heard her gasp, it's noise reverberating off the trees. “Don't you think we've done enough for humans? Our fathers? Perhaps it's time we be selfish, together.”

“I-I would like that.” Her voice sounding course with emotion.

“I would be human for you.”

“Sasuke.” She sighed. Of course she knew what those words meant. She knew his view on humans, and therefore understood the depth of them.

Then moon un-obscured by clouds once again, the secret placed doused in light. Therefore giving Sasuke the advantage of catching Hinata's quick glimpses from his eyes to his mouth. This own vision mirrored hers.

Slowly, they both closed the gap, both leaning towards the other. Sasuke angled his head to one side, to get a better angle. With his lips just a hairs width from hers he looked to her gaze once more, giving her the opportunity to pull away. She didn't. Hinata's eyes closed and at long last he felt her smooth and supple lips tenderly press his own. His own eyes closed and an involuntary groan escaped at the euphoria of such a sensation. He could feel her hands wrap around his shoulders pulling him all the more closer, his own wrapping around the curve of her waist.

He broke the kiss only to move his head to the other side, testing if a different angle achieved the same result. With each millisecond they had both come to the same conclusion, their lips touching would not be enough. Each opened their mouths, tongues grazed.

He may think humans insignificant and irrelevant but even he'd admit the act of kissing could very well redeem their every discretion.

[d3sertdream3r]

Final Thoughts on Mons(TROS)ity

I’m not even just upset that Ben died. That’s the rotten cherry on top of how every single character in the entire Skywalker Saga was fucked up in this film.

As much as I love Rey, the fight against Palpatine was most certainly Ben’s. This man has been mentally torturing him and manipulating him since he was in the fucking womb. He poisoned his relationships with his family. He convinced him that he had to kill his own father in order to ever be or mean anything. Yet he gets yeeted off a cliff in the final fucking battle. He doesn’t get revenge for all that’s been done to him and the past two generations of his family before him. Not to mention he only holds the legacy saber for all of 3 minutes at most. He doesn’t even set foot on the Millennium Falcon or talk to Uncle Lando and Uncle Chewie. He doesn’t get to hear the real voice of his hero/grandfather. He’s a mentally ill abuse victim that ended up killing himself. That leaves a really shitty taste in my mouth despite the fact that he did it for the girl he loves.

Am I really supposed to believe that Rey being sold into slavery to an extremely abusive guy on a desert wasteland is a good thing??? And what about the message that she made herself who she is and the Force chose her to be powerful because she is strong and compassionate despite how terribly she’s been treated her whole life? That she didn’t get her power from a legacy bloodline, but from herself?? Nope. She’s powerful because she is a Palpatine. And despite surviving in the desert all her life so that she could someday have a family, she ends up all alone in a different desert. Exactly where she began, but now she has trauma and the loss of her soulmate to deal with. Fuck everything.

Why didn’t Leia train Ben herself if Luke had trained her? She gave her son away when he was a kid because she just didn’t have time to deal with her only child while he was struggling with depression and anxiety? His powers reacting to his inner turmoil was just too inconvenient to her career?? Yeah, sure, totally sounds like Leia Skywalker Organa Solo to me.

Finn being a former stormtrooper that’s defected to the resistance is more of an after thought than a real plot line?? This is something we’ve never seen before. We’ve seen desert kids become powerful Jedi. We’ve seen powerful Jedi fall to the dark side and “redeem themselves” through death. We’ve seen Palpatine be defeated and killed before. Finn’s story was fresh and interesting and in the end all he does is make eyes at Rey and provide occasional comic relief.

What the hell is the point of Poe’s story? He doesn’t really have one. He was supposed to die in the first film and it shows because he hasn’t served much purpose at all since the first 10 minutes of TFA besides being attractive and acting like an ass most of the time. So inspiring.

Rose barely exists in this movie. She’s more of a cameo than anything. Her beautifully heartbreaking story about her sister, her kindness in the face of evil and destruction, her strong will and determination to do the right thing, her passion for justice, and her inspiration to a whole new generation of rebels and Jedi are all thrown out the window.

Luke, Han, and Leia all died so that Ben could live and finally feel light and happiness in his life. Well that didn’t work. He died. And why would Rey take the name Skywalker instead of Solo? She was in love with Ben Solo, her personal hero is Han Solo, and her real Jedi master was Leia Organa Solo. The Millennium Falcon is her ship and her best friend is Chewie. But she goes with fucking Skywalker?? Ok.

All the Jedi rushed to the aid of Rey in her moment of need but not a single one of them could be bothered to ever help Ben throughout his entire life despite being the grandson of the Chosen One. No one ever raised so much as a finger when he needed help, not even his grandfather that he loved and admired deeply to the point of following him down the path of his mistakes.

Anakin couldn’t talk to him and convince him to stay good or return to the light, but he gives his power to Rey and tells her to Rise?? A girl he doesn’t know at all??? Obi Wan “BEN” Kenobi couldn’t help and teach the child named after him?? A name that is synonymous with HOPE in SW. What a joke.

The Chosen One means nothing. The Skywalker bloodline means absolutely fucking nothing even though this entire universe was built around them. They aren’t the Balancers of the Force. They aren’t super powerful Force demigods despite having the Force literally woven into their DNA because of how Anakin was born, not just in midi-chlorian form. They’re all dead. The “Rise of Skywalker” indeed. Cruel irony at its finest.

In conclusion, this is how I feel about the movie. Take it away George:

JJ singlehandedly ruined an entire lifetime of lore and storytelling for who the fuck knows or cares why. Rian is the one who truly respected SW and handled the lore beautifully while also introducing new concepts to the franchise.

I will always love Reylo, Star Wars, and the Skywalkers. I hope they get Ben back in canon books or something, but I’ll always be bitter about the awful way every single fucking character in the Skywalker Saga has been so completely disrespected.

This fandom is wonderful and very inspiring and I can’t wait to see what gorgeous art and fanfics y’all come up with. I’m truly so grateful to be part of something so much bigger than myself; something JJ Abrams will never understand.