#i can still do a smaller task for ya!! something within my ability!! how about...

[fisheito]

Would you consider yourself to be a Yakumo connoisseur? Because I would pay to see you rank and review all of Yakumo's rooms. Your thoughts and ramblings are very fun to read.

**coughs up a bit of blood**

[dabs at my mouth with a small towel] although i ..HAVE seen, uh, every yakumo room I CANNOT CONSIDER MYSELF necessarily a connoisseur because uhhh the magic of subjectivity is that we can all be exposed to the same media, and yet interpret it vastly differently so!!! who's to say what makes someone a yakuconnoisseur or a yakudabbler..!!!

......... tho you probably agree with many of my interpretations if you think my words are fun to read.... err...... [CLANGS MY METAL CUP AGAINST THE BARS OF THE JAIL CELL] WELL, PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR TYPING FINGERS ARE , buDDY cuz THOSE wORDS r gonna COST YA

[dreaming-of-assclass]

AssClass Christmas Fics: Part 1

Group 1 + gift-shopping 🎁

In which Kataoka is tired, Isogai is stressed, Maehara is a wholesome idiot, and Okano and Kimura are the embodiment of chaos.

Genre: Fluff, Humor, Wholesomeness, Slight angst on Isogai’s part

Length: 3,133 words

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

—————

In hindsight, Megu should’ve known better than to come.

It had seemed innocent at first when Maehara brought the idea up in their groupchat. He wanted all his closest friends to band together and take a trip to the mall for “some good ol’ Christmas gift-shopping.” He said it wasn’t likely they’d get to hang out all together until after winter break. Ok, fair point.

But now, as she sat exhaustedly in the dressing room of some teen store, surrounded by heaps of clothing, she realized she’d made a mistake.

“Hinano, please tell me this is the last one you’re trying on,” Megu begged as she reached for another garment. “We’ve been here for at least an hour and a half.”

“Mmm...I just have to find a matching pair of shorts,” Hinano hummed, at least looking somewhat apologetic. She gave Megu a wink. “After this, we’ll be all done!”

And with that, the smaller girl dashed off, probably in search of one of the store workers.

Megu groaned, giving a pitiful glance at the bag sitting besides her. She’d purchased one outfit, a matching belt, and a set of earrings already...while her friend was still not even close to being done.

“Might as well check what everyone else is doing.” Megu pulled out her phone and texted their groupchat. 

Kataoka: Where are you guys?

She got a reply a moment later.

Maehara: me n isogai r grabbing smth to eat rn

Maehara: but we’re gonna go to some store after

Ah...probably to get some gifts for Isogai’s siblings, Megu remembered fondly. 

“Oh, Megu, she’s still not done yet?” She snapped up to see a somewhat flustered Touka making her way into the dressing room.

The class rep sighed with a tired smile, setting her phone down. She shifted a bit to make room for the other girl. “No, not yet...did you get what you were looking for?”

Touka nodded excitedly, pulling out her gift bag. It was very small and plain-looking, nude with only a red ribbon tied around. She handed it to Megu, a shine in her eyes. “Yes. It’s perfect, exactly what we were going for.”

Megu opened up the bag and reached for the item inside. It was small yet carried weight, and was surrounded by fancy parchment paper. She delicately opened it, careful not to rip anything. “Oh,” she breathed. Touka was certainly right.

It was perfect.

Nestled within the folds of parchment paper was a lovely ornament, shaped like a rose and made of dazzling stained glass. A thousand colors reflected off of it as she gently held it up in the light of the store. 

Touka smiled softly, leaning into her seat. “I thought a rose would be fitting after, y’know, Karasuma-sensei’s love declaration in October,” she laughed. 

“True.” Megu laughed as she carefully set the gift down back into the bag. “No but really, I can’t imagine anything better than this for her. She loves roses and it’s sophisticated, but still...can remind her of our class.”

She patted Touka’s shoulder, her gaze soft. “We made such a good decision entrusting her Christmas gift to be picked out by you.”

Oddly, Touka’s face turned a bright hue of red and she glanced away, clearing her throat. “It’s no problem! I’m happy that I picked something okay.”

Before Megu could question her, their third companion came back in a flurry of more clothing. A pair of pants flew and knocked against Megu’s face, and she wiped it away tiredly. “Hina! You said one more thing!”

Hinano was already turned towards the changing stall, struggling to carry her massive load. “I know, I know, I’m sorry! But they have a sale!”

“Still-!”

“Wait, really?” Touka shot up, her eyes bright. “I gotta go look for some stuff too!” Within seconds, she was dashing towards the racks of clothing in the store, right into the massive crowds of people already scavenging for good sales.

Oh boy. Megu mentally prepared herself for a moment before following her. Might as well take advantage of the sales too, she thought wryly. She had been looking for a new pair of boots lately...

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

__________

“Yo, how about this one?” Hiroto asked, wriggling his eyebrows and holding up a video game-themed hoody jacket. It was child-sized and looked incredibly tiny against his large frame.

Yuuma looked in his direction, still combing through a rack of items himself. “Cute.” He grinned.

He reached over and touched the material thoughtfully. “Quality seems pretty good too. It’ll last him a while.”

“Yeah!” Hiroto agreed. “It’s super cozy, and will help him a lot in winter.”

“Okay, we can put this in the cart.”

Hiroto obliged and the two boys moved on from the clothing area. “Nothing else?” He questioned, giving a passing glance to aisles around them.

Yuuma hummed. “Well, we got a pajama set for both of them...a dress...two pairs of shoes, and now this hoodie. I’d like to get more but it’s Christmas, right? They’d probably like some new toys, not a ton of clothes.” He laughed.

“Ah, true.” Hiroto pushed the cart towards the toy section, following his best friend’s steady pace. This part of the store was incredibly hectic, and the sound of children’s cries and laughs filled it endlessly. Stressed parents flew around, trying to find the perfect toys. Boxes were everywhere, and it was very much a mess.

He barely caught Yuuma’s wince. As someone who also worked in a service industry, around Christmas time no less, Yuuma was probably sympathizing with the store clerks who’d be tasked to clean up.

They reached a random aisle that ended up holding all the lego sets. “I should get a couple of these,” Yuuma mused, looking around. “They love Legos, especially the bigger sets.”

“Uh huh...” Hiroto grasped his chin in thought, leaning his forearms onto the cart handle. “What about this?” He reached over and grabbed the box set. 

Yuuma leaned over to see it. “A firetruck and station,” he read. “589 pieces.” He smiled, looking up at Hiroto. “Perfect. Let’s grab it.”

“Awesome.” Hiroto was glad he was some kind of help. He knew this time of year was always incredibly stressful for his best friend, who not only had to study but work at the same time. And Yuuma would always buy his family some type of presents, so there was that added financial stress...

Not to mention...

Yuuma would never outright say it, but Hiroto knew that his father was on his mind even more than usual during the Holiday season, a time that places so much emphasis on family. 

The thought made his chest tighten. Hiroto always swore to himself that he’d help Yuuma and his family to the best of his ability, and it went tenfold during this goddamn month. 

The two looked some more before coming up with a few more toys. There was a science kit for his younger brother, and some new race cars. And a babydoll and a slime-making box for his little sister. The two kids would share the Lego set, and their older brother would help them build it.

“Now we just need to swing by over there,” Yuuma told him, gesturing to the side of the store where mainly women’s products were. Things like fancy soap, candles, etc. 

It was definitely a gift for his mom.

“Sure.” They made their way over, Hiroto still pushing the cart. “Hey, Isogai...” The name slipped uncomfortably from his tongue, leaving a taste of unfamiliarity. 

“Yeah?” Yuuma asked, looking through some house decorations. Hiroto took a short breath.

“Your family will love and appreciate whatever you get for them. It’s always the thought that counts, and that’s like...times ten with you. You’re a really good son and big brother, and that alone means so much to them probably.”

There was a pause.

“So please don’t stress yourself out, looking “for the perfect gift,” Hiroto added quickly. “They love you so much...”

Well, so much for nice encouragement. He just blurted out everything.

The sound of gentle laughter rang out, and he glanced up to see Yuuma looking back at him. His best friend’s eyes crinkled in a charming way as he spoke.

“Thanks, Hiroto...I couldn’t have gone through all this without you.” He ran a hand through his mop of dark hair. “And I don’t just mean this past month...thanks for being my best friend.”

He continued. “It’s when you say stuff like that...that brings me back down to Earth,” Yuuma admitted. “And I can actually...relax, even for just a little bit.”

Oh...

Hiroto coughed lightly, before beaming at him. “Well, duh~what are best friends for?” He winked. “I’ve always got your back.”

“Same here,” Yuuma replied, his gaze soft. 

His phone buzzed and he pulled it out, brows furrowing slightly. “Ah, Yada texted.”

Yada: help megu almost fought some girl over a pair of tights on sale

Maehara: LMFAOOOOOO well did she win?

Yada: ya of course

Kataoka: - _ - she deserved it

Isogai: Haha

Kataoka: also sorry to interrupt but

Kataoka: where the hell are okano and kimura????

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

_________

“I can’t believe you actually had a good idea for once,” Okano muttered, the blue light from the game reflected in her fierce gaze. “Coming to the mall arcade instead of doing some boring shopping.”

“Yeah, well, at least one of us used our brain cell today,” Kimura shot back, his thumbs moving rapidly. “If it was up to you, we’d still be circling around the penny fountain.”

Okano snorted. “Shut up.” She picked up the pace on the controllers, feeling a familiar drive to win piling up inside of her. 

Ten seconds later, “You lose!” was flashing at her on the screen while Kimura jumped up, throwing his arms up in victory. “Aw, hell yeah!”

“Fuck!” Okano hissed. “One more time!” She demanded, turning towards him.

Kimura smirked, calming down. “No thanks, I’m getting bored of this one now,” he replied nonchalantly.

Okano rolled her eyes. “Fine.” She looked around at the arcade interior, her gaze scanning around for anything that seemed interesting. 

“Oh! I love that game!” She exclaimed, gesturing to an iceball set up. “Come on!”

“Sure!” Kimura followed her towards the machine, seeing nothing else to do. “I bet I’ll win~” He sang smugly.

“You wish,” Okano scoffed, choosing the one on the left while he moved to the right. She inserted the proper number of tokens before smiling satisfied at the way the machine lit up. “I’m a beast at this game. Maehara can tell you himself how I literally destroyed everyone at this last summer.”

Kimura did the same and they both waited for the number of balls to roll down towards them. “Huh. We’ll see about that.”

“Just shut up and play already.” She had already thrown her first ball, smirking at how it fell into an 100 point slot. “Ha!”

“Lucky shot,” Kimura mumbled, tossing his first one. It fell into the Zero slot, much to his disappointment. “Shit...”

Thankfully, Okano didn’t pay attention. She was much too preoccupied with tossing her own balls, which all landed in the 100 or 250 slots. 

Kimura picked up the pace and continued his game. He groaned as all of them fell into the 10 point slots. The number of tickets coming out on his end was nothing compared to Okano’s long chain. Well...maybe my pitching is shit after all, like Sugino said. I should fix this...

“Done!” Okano shouted, throwing her last ball that fell into the 100 slot. She grinned at her list of tickets before looking over at him. “What’d I tell you, huh?” 

Kimura rolled his eyes, grabbing his final ball. Gritting his teeth, he tossed it with a carefull turn of his wrist. He watched in anticipation as the ball glided over all the slots...before falling right into the 5000 slot.

“Oh shit!”

“Woah!” Okano yelled, her eyes wide. “Oh my god, Kimura! You got the highest number!”

“I did!” He shouted back, somewhat in a daze. 

“That’s amazing!”

For a moment, it was like they weren’t rivals. Just a moment though.

Okano punched his shoulder, her lips curved. “Beginner’s luck,” she teased, but the fire never left her eyes.

Kimura laughed before his gaze fell back on his tickets. “Ah...it’s taking a while, isn’t it?”

Okano looked at it with a frown, pursing her lips. “It shouldn’t be.”

“Let’s give it another minute,” he suggested.

Five minutes later, Kimura felt like screaming. “My major accomplishment!” He sighed dramatically. “And no one was around to see it but you!”

Okano rolled her eyes, hopping off the floor where they’d been crouching. “Get up. Let’s go find a staff member.”

“Yeah...” Kimura stood up, shoving his hands into his hoodie pocket. “Uh hello? What are you staring at?” He questioned.

No answer, as Okano looked thoughtfully at the game machine. “Earth to Okano~” He sang, waving a hand in her face.

Then she did it.

Something he hadn’t expected, but really it shouldn’t have even surprised him.

Okano swung her leg out before letting it collide against the machine’s ticket base. A booming thud rang out.

And almost immediately, tickets began streaming out. 

Kimura’s jaw dropped.

“There, it’s all fixed,” Okano smiled with a shrug.

“Are you crazy?” The words escaped his mouth instantly. “You pulled out some assassin moves just to fix a ticket machine?!”

“Well yeah~You can get your tickets now!”

“How did you even know that would work?! And doesn’t your foot hurt like hell?”

Okano laughed. “Honestly, I had no idea if it would work. But it did!” She glanced at her foot. “And it doesn’t hurt. That part of the machine is pretty hollow, and my foot has hit harder things so...”

Kimura frowned at her.

“I promise it’s fine!” Okano held her hands up. “Woah...look at your tickets! I think you can get a stuffed animal with this number!”

“Yeah maybe-” Kimura was cut off by a stern voice barking at them.

“Hey! You kids!”

They both jolted up as one of the mall security guards stormed towards them, followed by as pissed-off arcade worker, who pointed at them. “Those kids broke the machine to steal extra tickets!”

Kimura felt his mouth go dry. Still he tried to shout, “Wait no! It’s a misunderstanding, I got 5000! But it got stuck-”

And then he was cut off by Okano yanking his arm away with a strength he could only imagine having. The next few seconds felt like a blur and before he knew it, the two of them were running in the lobby of the mall.

“Come on, you idiot! You’re the fastest runner in the class, act like it!” Okano yelled, purposely agitating him. Still, Kimura fell for it and his speed increased immensely in just a second. Now, Okano was trying to catch up to him. 

Kimura dashed through the numbers of people walking by, being mindful to dodge anyone, especially the elderly or some children... He shouted out a “Sorry!” and an “Excuse me!” as he moved.

It sounded odd but he could hear Okano’s footsteps behind him, even amongst the clusters of normal civilians. Probably from all the times they trained together. Her steps were light and bouncy, barely touching the floor as she kept a stable balance. He always thought to himself how Okano moved like she could walk on air.

He made a sharp turn around a mall corner, narrowly avoiding a collision with three girls just trying to walk by. “Ah, I’m so sorry!”

“What the hell- wait...Kimura?” One of the girls breathed.

Kimura’s head snapped up at the familiar tone and he realized in horror who the girls were. “Kataoka! Yada! Kurahashi!” He laughed sheepishly. “How’s your shopping going?”

“Fine~!” Kurahashi chirped, somehow balancing five huge bags on one of her arms alone.

Kimura smiled at her. “That’s good...” He laughed nervously again. “Well, I should continue on my way-”

Kataoka leveled him a sharp glare, leaning in closer. “What do you think you’re doing, running around the mall like a maniac? And where’s Hinata?!”

“Uhm...”

“There you are!” All four of them jolted, looking up to see the security guard. Standing right beside him was a very annoyed-looking Okano, crossing her arms. Ah, so she got caught...

“I’m gonna need you to come to our office,” the guard spoke sternly, looking straight at Kimura. 

He sighed, stepping forward to comply before passing a pleading glance to the girls. Kurahashi frowned, Yada sighed, and Kataoka shut her eyes irritably. Then she spoke. “Officer...we’re friends with them, so we’ll come along too, if that’s okay.”

“Alright then.”

The girls followed them warily and Kataoka leaned in to whisper to Yada. “I hope your negotiating skills will come in handy now...”

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

________

“Oh man,” Maehara wheezed, clutching his stomach. “Banned from the mall for a month?!” He burst out laughing again.

“Yeah...” Kimura’s head was dropped into his arms, which rested on the table of the cafe they were at.

“I’m glad you find this act of immaturity so funny,” Kataoka commented dryly, taking another sip of her latte. The liquid scorched her throat a bit, but she needed the caffeine at that moment. 

“Actually, I find it hilarious,” Maehara corrected. “Seriously, how did all that even happen? Why’d you run away?”

“I’d like to know too,” Isogai chimed in tiredly.

“Uh, haven’t you heard of fleeing from the scene of a crime?” Okano snapped, but it lacked its usual bite as she reached over for her hot chocolate.

“That only works if you can’t get caught,” Yada pointed out with a giggle, adjusting her scarf.

“Aw man,” Maehara chuckled, toning it down at the sight of Okano’s pout. “It’s okay guys. We’ll laugh about this in the future.”

“You’re laughing about it now,” Kataoka muttered sourly.

Maehara ignored her. “One day, we’ll look back on this as a super fond memory,” he said confidently, throwing an arm around Kimura.

“Not to mention, it was pretty cool how you used your kick, Hina!” Kurahashi chimed in, hugging her.

“Yeah, pretty badass,” Isogai agreed, flashing her a smile.

Okano’s lips curved up. “Thanks, guys...”

“I guess the whole thing was pretty ridiculous,” Kimura said. “Sorry for stressing you out, Kataoka...”

She waved him off but her gaze softened. “Just don’t let this happen ever again.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Maehara clasped his heads behind his head. “Ah, by the way, I’m gonna have to leave sooner than I thought.”

Yada squinted at him. “...Why?”

“Well, there’s this Christmas event at another store where they need a guy in a Santa costume...and you know...the elves are all pretty girls, so I gotta help them out-”

All his friends let out a collective groan. 

[fablesrose]

Of Kings and Shadows XXIII

Description: Y/n, a girl who seems to have found her calling. Being a SHIELD agent is like a dream come true. With a friendship starting to form with the Avengers, she’s the Queen of the world! What could go wrong?

Pairings: Avengers x reader, Loki x reader (eventually)

Notes: It’s a little short for the time it took, sorry!

On Wattpad –> Here

Masterlist

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The mind is a tricky place.

Effortless to become lost in, easy to meddle with, hard to break, difficult to control, and nearly impossible to put back in its place.

The mind requires both precision and respect. Neither can be given as a gift, only learned. Usually, they are developed together along with the ability to penetrate the mind. Wanda was given the ability without the required time for respect. Perhaps deep inside she knew it, that that was why Loki was placed in charge of the mission of Y/n's mind. She was still sharpening her magic's blade to be a steel knife. Loki, on the other hand, was sharper than obsidian.

That's why in the heat of battle, the Avengers were put in charge of keeping the opposing agents at bay and away from Queen and Loki while also defending themselves from attacks. It is well within Loki's abilities to multitask with mind magic and dueling, but this was a special case. Loki hung closer to the back and threw up a shield for good measure. He put minimal attention to the battle around him with occasionally taking out an agent if needed.

The rest of his focus and energy was put into exploring the folds and shadows of what used to be Y/n's mind. The surface was worryingly dark to him, not at all what he imagined the original Y/n's mind to be.

He dug deeper and found it somewhat difficult, every mind is different and has a different 'texture' and consistency, but Y/n's functioned differently than anyone he had ever seen. It was like it was actively trying to keep him out, with half a moment of pushing through sludge, to falling forward suddenly with thin and lightning-fast decisions of battle. It was puzzling, usually only those with mental abilities are able to protect themselves or even sense someone was infiltrating the mind unless the infiltrator specifically makes contact. As far as they knew she didn't have any mental magic, but he pushed through to see what was bouncing around in there. He was able to get far enough to start seeing flashes of assignments and missions that were numbered many times more than they had ever thought.

Some were horrific and brutal. Some were stealth with her blending with the shadows like she was born there. It was fascinating... and almost nauseating. Eventually, he had to refocus himself on what his actual mission was: make contact, try to see how much of the old, the good Y/n is still in here, and find if there are any weaknesses they could use.

He repeated her name over and over to himself to keep him on-mission. As he did so the pattern around him changed as if she was only then made aware of his presence.

A voice spoke to him that sounded only vaguely familiar, 'Y/n is not here.'

Loki realized he must have mistakenly projected his thoughts into telepathy instead of privately. At first, he wondered if he remembered her voice incorrectly since it has been so long since he's heard it, but the dark and almost unnaturally smooth quality told him otherwise. He believed her--partly--he believed that he was not talking to Y/n. 'To whom am I speaking then?'

'I've gone by many names as I'm sure you've seen on some of those files. Around here they just call me Queen. Y/n seems to think that I've evolved and have always been here, she calls me Noxy. You may call me what you like.'

There was a spark of hope at her words, 'So Y/n is here.'

There was a pause, 'She won't be for long. I'm actually surprised that she's lasted this long. Existing anyway. Not surprised at the state she's in.'

That was all it took for Loki to dig deeper into her mind, leaving whatever abomination was controlling Y/n's body to try to find something, anything to stop the rampage and hopefully save the woman he would like to call his friend.

He went farther past the missions, the strategies, and manipulation 101. He was about to give up on trying to find Y/n and start scavenging to find weaknesses when he approached the far reaches of her mind. That's when he began to hear faint traces of music. He followed it to a small corner that didn't reflect the dark sludge around him. It was colorful and light, but he didn't fail to notice the fingers of dark shadows invading the area, causing it to fade and turn a bit grey.

The rhythm of decisions being made now made sense. The brain does not have the ability to truly multitask. Instead, it switches back and forth between tasks quicker than we can register. Her mind wasn't trying to keep him out, her mind was just switching between this Noxy character and Y/n.

The song seemed familiar, but the lyrics being sung hardly made sense.

He tried to reach out to her, calling her name, but nothing seemed to snap her to pay any attention to him. It was just that snippet of a song playing on a loop and scrambled flashes of pictures, memories, all of them incoherent.

Blinded by the light...

revekjsmed up like a dochewekf.

Ansldkjthor rumner in the night!

He would be lying if he said it didn't scare him. Not even his own thoughts were ever this disarranged, and he has been called mad far more than his fair share of times. It became abundantly clear that he wasn't going to get through to her and he began to lose the small spark of hope that he got before.

Loki did the mental equivalent of sitting down with a huff and tried to think of what to do next. This was becoming more difficult than he had hoped. As he sat there he really paid attention to the music since that was the only thing Y/n was giving him.

He must admit that it took longer than it should have for the song to click and that maybe Y/n was trying to tell him something through it. It nearly broke his heart that even when she didn't have all of her pieces put together that she was still trying to give them something to work with. Something to beat her with.

At least, that's what he hoped she was doing. He kinda wanted a deep moment.

Loki snapped back to the battle outside of his mind and smacked his head for all of them being so stupid, including himself, but he wasn't going to say that out loud.

"Stark!" Loki yelled through the comms, throwing himself back into the battle.

"What? What have ya got?" Tony continued to blast at black spears being launched at him and Hydra agents that kept coming and didn't seem to have an end.

Loki flung daggers with deadly accuracy while slicing down any agent that came into his path, "What is the opposite of darkness?"

"Really? You're gonna give me riddles? Light... Light is the opposite of dark."

"And if there is enough light?"

"No darkness at all."

Loki nodded to himself, "Do you think we can get enough light?"

There was a pause while Tony did some calculations, "I don't know, but we can damn well try."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I had that feeling when you're zoned out and someone calls your name but you don't notice until five minutes after the fact? I was so focused on the song... It was so important. When I snapped out of making sure the song kept playing, something was different.

I couldn't put my finger on it--figuratively or literally--what exactly was different, I mean, I'm the only one who could rearrange things in my little corner, so maybe I was just going crazy. More crazy anyway.

I spent a moment puzzling over the strange feeling before I felt her body succumb to waves of exhaustion out of nowhere. I hadn't felt that kind of exhaustion in a long time, but I knew what it was all too well. It reminded me of the lightroom.

I was scared, I hadn't been in the lightroom since Noxy took over, but maybe something changed.

I finally decided to see what was going on in the outside world and I wasn't sure if I was going to like what I saw. I didn't want to see the stark white walls and the electric shocks. I tentatively paid attention to what was going on and a bittersweet feeling overcame me.

Noxy had her hands out and tried to shoot her spears of darkness at the Avengers... and others I didn't recognize. The pitch-black material that made up her weapons became smaller and smaller, not flying as far as they normally would, and some even fizzled away at her fingertips. I could tell that we didn't have the energy to keep the fight going.

The reason why is that everywhere I could see there were lights shining on me. Lights from the building behind me, some sort of aircraft above me had a spotlight trained on me, and every Avenger that was able had some sort of light fixed on me. They weren't perfect. There were shadows that Noxy was pulling energy from, but they were small and the sheer force and brightness of the light coming from Thor's lighting, Tony's repulsors from both of the suits, even Cap had his shield reflecting light at me, it all made it so the shadows weren't enough.

Nevertheless, the light wasn't enough to drop us.

Since she could draw upon the shadows, Noxy pulled out a gun and a whip from her belt.

All at once, I could hear everyone I had ever met, including myself say, "Kinky."

I didn't remember ever seeing it before, let alone using it, training with it. For a moment I felt like Indiana Jones with the bullwhip at her side. I could see it wasn't perfectly smooth and that there were bits and pieces of shiny material woven into it. I instinctively knew that it would be extremely painful to be hit with.

Noxy cracked it easily and began to advance towards the heroes. She only took two steps before there was a sharp prick in the neck. Noxy pulled out what looked to be a horse tranquilizer. Her eyes snapped to the direction it came from to see Clint crouched in a tree, bow slung across his back. He emptied the barrel in one fluid motion and shot a loose salute in our direction, but despite the lightness of it, there wasn't a smile on his face.

I could feel her body begin to shake as it became difficult to stand steady. She raised her gun to shoot at Clint, but her hand was trembling too bad to take aim. Noxy dropped the whip to steady her gun, but her eyes drooped in exhaustion. My already limited range of sight began to shrink even more and then the world became dizzy, I became dizzy? I wasn't sure anymore. The one thing I did know was that as I was falling to the ground it felt like there was a whole new presence in my head. It was soft, hardly noticeable, but before I could figure out what was going on, we blacked out.

[cluelessnamelessao3]

But It’s Not Funny

2. It’s Not Funny

“So, Ms. Dreemurr, your child has expressed interest in working with us…” you coughed awkwardly, “by us, I mean my service dog, Luna, and I… she comes with me everywhere, so I hope Frisk does not mind having her underfoot.” You were trying too hard to sound business like, and it wasn't working out so well.

You felt ridiculous, but you had to at least try to be professional.

Frisk, who was currently sitting ramrod straight in the chair beside the beautiful, fluffy, and kind looking Toriel Dreemurr, burst into giggles at the look you gave them. You smirked, one eyebrow cocked up in a question and they did their best to quell their snickers.

“Ah, my dear, as long as you do not mind putting up with my mischievous, little Frisk.” Though her voice was stern, her expression was soft, and you could see her deep affection for Frisk. It made you smile and warmed your heart… though a part of you felt bitter… she was like the mother you never had. The fact that such a matronly and kind person could exist, it blew your mind.

You wished you’d had a mother (or even a stepmother) like her. You wished you’d had someone kind and warm and sweet like she was. She was the embodiment of safety and comfort. Even knowing her for only a few minutes you felt like you could bury your face into her soft fur and cry out all yours fears and that she would tell you again and again that it’d ‘be okay’ and that you would ‘be okay.’ Even crazier, you felt like you would believe her.

She stood then, and after giving Frisk a gentle kiss on the top of their head, left.

For never having worked with animals before, Frisk was pretty good and willing to learn. Actually, for their first day, it wasn’t so bad at all. Their only real mistake was dropping a bucket filled with dirty water on accident—and as a result, soaking both yourself and themselves. (It wasn’t too hard to clean up and dry off, and you’d thought it was funny, so you weren’t actually mad).

You were used to being alone—both in work and in life. You were used to hiding behind the counter and only interacting with people enough to do your job. But now it wasn’t just you.

It was you and someone else—that someone else being a very peppy and a very happy Frisk right by your side.

They seemed to be a pretty good kid, and, well, Luna liked them, so obviously they had to be nice enough. You were surprised, though, at how much you enjoyed Frisk’s company. In many ways, they reminded you of yourself. They were so shy and quiet, not wanting to make a scene, yet somehow being spunky and sure of themselves.

They had a kind of determination you wish you had. They had a will to see things through and make them right.

They were currently in the backroom, cleaning the hair out of the brushes and shears that’d been used today while you counted tips and set the register straight. It’d been a fairly successful day and they’d learned a lot about being a dog groomer—mostly they learned that it was by no means a glamorous job, but at the very least, it helped pay the bills.

“So, Frisk, you’re in high school, right?” You began, trying to make small talk.

They peered around the corner and gave you a quick nod before returning to their task.

“How do you like it?” You prompted.

“It’s okay,” you heard them call out from the other room, and then quietly, so quietly you were sure you weren't meant to hear, “Just kind of lonely…”

“I feel that,” you muttered more to yourself than them, a bitter laugh bubbling from your mouth.

They responded with a low hum of agreement.

Something about them pushed you to ask more—to know more about this little individual.

“Are the kids mean to you…?” You felt worried asking such a personal question like that.

They were silent for a moment and you wondered if you’d somehow messed up. Were you prying too deeply? Should you have even attempted at making conversation? You’d never been good at making small talk… you’d never really been good at making friends either… you’d never really been good at… the whole… “social” thing.

Were you being insensitive by asking them these questions?

Just when you were about to lose your nerve and back out of the conversation, Frisk spoke up, “Yeah… it isn’t a big deal though, I’m… uh… determined to…” their voice became smaller, “not make momma worry.”

Your heart squeezed uncomfortably. You wanted to know more, but you felt you had already pushed too much.

“Frisk,” you started nonchalantly, “I think we’re about done with work today… we don’t have any more appointments… Do you want to get a Nice Cream or something? I, er, haven’t actually had one before,” you chuckled awkwardly, fumbling around with one of the dog collars that had been on display. This was your version of extending the metaphorical “olive branch” of friendship.

You’d been in Frisk’s shoes. You’d been bullied—at least, based on their responses you assumed they were getting bullied—and you’d been beat up by kids for many reasons. People didn’t like you for your awkwardness. Your lack of social etiquette. People teased you for being short, for having a soft and scratchy voice, or for being too loud sometimes, for having a messed-up family. People made you anxious about the little bit of pudge you had on your stomach, and the stretch marks on your thighs.

People were mean, it just seemed to be human nature.

And, well, no one really had helped you when you were in Frisk’s shoes… You didn’t want another kid to feel so completely and utterly alone like you had—like you sometimes still did.

You wanted to protect them—but you were unsure as to why you felt so tied to them.

They came over to you, looking up at you with a sheepish and disbelieving expression, “Really? A-are you sure we can leave early?”

You slung an arm around them, ignoring the way your skin prickled uncomfortably at the close contact, “Yeah, of course. That’s what friends do; you know? Let’s go out and get some god damn ice cream!”

Frisk laughed, and you slapped a hand over your mouth, face burning, “Sorry, I probably shouldn’t curse… right? Your mom would have my head…”

They were still laughing as they nodded, the smile on their face bright and genuine, “Let’s go get some treats then, yeah? I still can’t believe you’ve never had Nice Cream! I think you’ll love it…”

You smiled and nodded back while they gushed, and you pulled out your phone to google the nearest ‘Nice Cream’ stand.

As it turned out, there was one just a block or so down from your little groomer’s shop. With Luna in tow, you and Frisk set off down the street.

The walk was nice and mostly quiet, though Frisk did talk a little bit about one of their (seemingly few) friends, a kid by the name of ‘Monster Kid’. You tried not to snort at the teen’s name, and you were slightly relieved that they went by MK. It was much easier to say ‘MK’ with a straight face rather than ‘Monster Kid’ to a literal ‘monster kid’.

(Monster’s ability to name things in the least creative way possible would never cease to amuse you).

You reached the stand, which, to your disappointment, seemed to be empty. Frisk, however, was not to be deterred, and instead just rang a bell perched on the corner of the counter several times. Within a second a very stocky and rather tall skeletal monster was standing in front of you.

“Hey, little pal, whatcha here for?” His voice was deep and rumbling and it sent a shiver up your spine.

You tried to ignore the sudden rush of butterflies in your gut—you’d always had a weird attraction to certain voices, and this monster’s voice was… quite nice.

Frisk smiled up at him, “Hiya Sans!”

They then pointed to you, introducing you before continuing on, “She said we could get a treat! She’s never had Nice Cream before!”

He turned to look at you, the white pupils in his dark eye sockets narrowing slightly as he took you in—eyes traveling up and down in an almost predatory way, like he was sizing you up.

“Hey. Pal.” He said shortly, voice monotone and uninterested. It sounded forced though—almost protective. Maybe he didn’t like you being with Frisk? Or maybe it was something else? There was some emotion behind his eyes that you couldn’t quite figure out.

Either way, you didn’t like him staring. So, you stared right back—a certain stubbornness flaring up in your normally very meek self.

His eyes flicked away after a moment’s pause and Frisk looked between the two of you in confusion. You could feel sweat gather on your palms, and you tried not to sound as shaky as you felt. Confrontation was not big on your to-do list, but it seemed he didn’t like you. At all.

“I, uhm… Frisk and I, we, uh, nice cream?” You squeaked out nervously—fuck, fuck that wasn’t smooth at all.

Luna seemed to sense your anxiety as she butted her head up against your leg, effectively grounding you. You absent-mindedly scratched at her ears and she sniffed your hand for treats.

He chuckled darkly, looking you up and down once more, with the same mischievous grin that seemed permanently plastered on his face. “You’re patella’n me, kiddo,” you didn’t like the way his non-existent lips curled into a smirk, “I meant, what’ll ya have?”

“Oh,” you responded dumbly, unsure of how to recover this situation. It hit you then, did he make a bone pun? You laughed a little too late, your face growing warm with embarrassment.

Frisk giggled at your awkward behaviour and you shot them a quick frown which had them suppressing their laugh almost instantly, as you continued to attempt to order, “Uhm, I’d like… the chocolate swirl, and little boss here would like…” You paused, giving them the option to cut in with their order.

They said something you didn’t quite understand—it must have been some monster-magic flavour, you tried not to question it.

Just as you were about to leave, the monster in charge of the Nice Cream stand called out, “By the way, I’m Sans. Sans the Skeleton…”

You cocked your head to the side as Luna perked her ears at him and glanced at you, judging your reaction. “Like… Sans the flesh?”

He chuckled at that, though it still wasn’t very friendly, “Nice.” Then, he closed his eye sockets—effectively cutting off any further conversation.

You frowned and turned away to leave while Frisk made their goodbyes to Sans. (He cracked an eye open for the kid and waved lazily as Frisk left). They waved back as the two of you made your way down the block.

 That night you laid in bed, reading one of your novels without actually reading it. You couldn’t focus, you just felt antsy. It must have been running close to one in the morning, but every time you closed your eyes you felt your skin crawl.

Ah. So, it was going to be one of those nights, you sighed.

After struggling to read for another half hour you gave up, marked the page and carefully set it down before getting up to grab your sketch pad.

“Luna,” you called, your voice hoarse and a little too shaky for your liking. Your skin prickled uncomfortably, and you tried not to act too paranoid as you made your way to your bedroom, sketchpad and pencils in hand.

You felt a shift in the air behind you and you whipped your head around, but nothing was there… Nothing was there. Nothing was there, you repeated to yourself. Your heart was beating too fast, your pulse racing. Palms sweaty. It felt like eyes were on you, on you, on you. They were on you, on you, on you.

You sprinted down the hall into your room and leaped into the bed, panting heavily. Luna burst into the room a second later, her eyes worried, tail stiff. She looked about ready to fight someone, but when she met your gaze and took in your quivering form, she relaxed and hoped onto the bed to curl beside you.

She situated herself to rest her paws and head on your thighs as you scratched idly behind her ears. She would keep you safe. She would protect you.

As your breathing slowed and the slight panic ebbed you began to take stock of the room—counting three things you could hear, three you could see, three you could smell, three you could feel until you felt much more grounded. Much more present.

You were okay. Luna was here. You would be just fine.

The clock read one thirty and you let out another sigh before resigning yourself to a long, sleepless night.

[wipstoriesandart]

My Found Valentine

This story has Abandonment, mentions of abuse, and a little flirty skeleton, You have been warned.

CupidBitty was created by @the-holiday-viruses

_______           Maddy was walking home a bag of fabric and more sewing Material in arms for the new orders that she had gotten over the past few days, her home had become a little loud and partly over run, but at least she looked forward to coming home more now, it wasn't as lonely and she enjoyed the company of all her small companions.

             It was still rather early in the morning so not many were out and about, she herself wouldn't have been out this early except she had already stayed up all night working on projects, and Snow having told her of one of her meany sisters shops near by, Maddy wanted to get the cloth first thing to insure she could finish the orders in time.

             There was a cool crisp air about the city, it would be nice except it was the morning of trash collection and though the trucks were due by soon they had yet to reach some of the allies… She scrunched her nose as she started past a ally she had already past on her way to the shop and new she would be walking right past the rancid smell of…. Roses? That was odd that was definitely Not the smell she had smelled earlier, and for it to be so strong to over power the rotting couch, random rotting fridge contents or whatever it was…

          Apart of her was arguing about digging through the trash, the risks of injury, disease, wild animal.. Etc but the other Majoral part of her couldn't help but feel that something was seriously not right with this, the trucks came in less than an hour, and it was very rare for roses to be around here Let alone enough to cover the smell of a overfilled dumpster and then some of trash.

        With a sigh knowing she wasn't going to be able to convince herself not to she followed the curiosity and suspicion she walked into the ally, the smaller part of her raising the thought that it could be a trap…

       She looked about the ally, there didn't seem to be nothing truly out of the ordinary… it looked like a run of the mill filthy ally, the dumpster having been overfilled and the couch beside it, and black plastic garbage bags beside it, but when she seen a box sitting atop the dumpsters mound with a bag placed upon it she couldn't help but notice the strange scribbled marker and duct tape upon it.

             She found a relatively clean spot to set her bags down as she stepped onto the filth ridden couch to reach the box, there were crossed out hearts, slanderous words upon it including a largely printed words of Useless and Trash atop the lid. She gently moved the box, the smell of roses permeating from within, the smell near making her sick with the potency of it. She could feel there was something inside, she set it beside her bags and cut the tape that sealed the box shust, she was thankful whatever demon of a person had done such a thing had forgotten to tape the handle holes. Or whatever was within the box was liable to suffocate.

           Her brows frowned when she looked down at the occupant of the box… or rather the large pile of black feathers… had someone killed a crow? She shook her head, gently reaching in her eyes widening in Horror. Definitely not a crow. Among the feathers curled up among its own large black wings was a lanky skeleton, it was still breathing, and no signs of dusting… that was good once she seen there was no… major issues to his physical condition she started to focus more on the details. He seemed to be a lanky edge bitty, having the stature and body structure more of a papy then a sans at all. His clothes were a little dirty and ragged but more like he had been to a rough party not so much fighting for his life… he seemed very tired and feathers in dismay. She almost blushed, she couldn't help but think he was cute…. Ok… wtf? Ware did that come from? Even the monsters she did… “mingle” with she never went for cute. It was Not one of the traits that drew her to anyone… was it the smell?

           “If you are going to kill be, can you just get it over please? My mistress isn't coming back for me anyways,” Maddison knew that expression upon his face, it was one she had worn years ago herself. The look of someone with no more fight to give, no more will to live, someone just accepting whatever faite delt them. His pink eye lights seeming dim, though she almost could swear the right eye light was in a heart shape… or was it just the way he was laying?

            Maddy frowned, fate can wait to try and take the 8 inch bitty, She wasn't going to hand him over to that weak willed woman, “I'm not going to kill you,” she had to breath and fight whatever was causing her to want to cuddle and kiss and love on this sweet heartbroken bitty.

            “Then it will be left to the garbage trucks,” he sighed closing his pink eyes. His readiness for the end nearly sickened Maddy as much as the overpowering smell, she would NOT let this bitty just lay here and Die.

             “It doesn't have to,” whatever was causing her over protective side to flare… well more so then it would in this situation to begin with, already thinking of 101 ways to make whoever abandons him suffer, it wasn't normal, she had to get  him out of that box, and away from that smell.

            “Thank you for the offer sweetheart, but… i don't think i can give you anything in return,” his voice was sounding weak.

            “I didn't ask for anything,” Maddison said in a matter of fact tone. She could hear the garbage truck turning the corner at the end of the street. She knew they would be there in less than 20 min, “i know your hurt and all but trust me when i say try and let me do this,” Maddy pulled out some paper from her wallet and jotted some information down, “Are you ok to be moved?” she glanced him over trying to insure she didn't miss anything more than a few minor scratches.

           “Y-your serious about taking me from here aren't ya, sweetheart?” he didn't open his eyes as he spoke this time.

            “I am,” she couldn't explain why. She would have done it for the reasons that no one should be left to die like this and offer to take him and drop him off at the Bitty shelter...but she would Not leave him there, she might not even allow him the choice if it came down to it. She would make sure he got to her home and was safe and well cared for having everything he needed. And when she found out who had hurt this black winged little angel they would have the very reason why they claim “Hell hath no fury.”“Is it ok if i pick you up?” she asked as she put away her pen and partly stood to pick up her bags the note between her fingers of her hand she held her bags.

            He now opened his eyes and looked up at her confusion written on his face as if no one had ever asked him that question, “Y-yes?”

            “Will you come with me?” she could hear the truck coming near… they were faster then she factored.

           The black winned bitty looked stunned but gave a nod, trying to sit up to make it easier for Maddy to pick him up, she very gingerly scooped him up with her free hand and cradled him to her breast an action she normally would only do with the young ones in her home. The Bitty seemed to blush a bit having to wiggle so his wings were not pressed against her or underneath him.

        “I.. i might not be able to help you… B-but if you let me come Home with you i will do what i can to help,” he looked up at her hopefully.

         Maddy could only imagine how cold her own expression seemed as she had already made up her mind to take him home, and the others would either accept him ...or get over their territorial issues and accept him, her face was not giving much other then a scary ora due to her irritations and cold hearted hearted toward whoever put him in that box with such slanderous lies written upon it, “I don't ‘Need’ you to do anything for me,” she stood up with him protectively in her arms as she made her way to stand at the corner of the street and ally waiting for the truck.

           “But i'm a cupid… i'm supposed to help with.. Ya know the whole match making and such..” he mumbled.

            “When we get home you will see i have plenty of Love, and don't need help finding it,” she gently rubbed her thumb over his spine trying to gently smile down at cupid and not seem so scary.

           “Then why even bring me home?” he rested his head down upon her and snuggled into her warmth as he clutched her shirt.

           She looked down at him unsure of the exact reason but one thread of reasons seemed to be common enough to wear she spoke as the truck came, “Because i want to,” She noticed then the source of the smell was the Bitty itself, though now that it wasn't trapped in the box it was far from sickening, it was actually rather nice, her focus was on the smell and trying to hold a poker face, she was unaware the bitty was looking up at her bewilderment on his face, then a light blush before he snuggled back into her hoping he could bury his face enough to hide the pink dusting on his cheekbones… She stepped out to the edge of the sidewalk waving to the truck driver, she gave them the paper with the shelter number asking them that if they ever came upon any boxes with the small monsters that they please call. Both men seemed to blush at Maddy but accepted the number and promised to call. Once the task was completed Maddy walked off making a call, though she was more than sure her own Alpha’s abilities in healing were more than acceptable to care for her newly found companion she new the shelter was closer she simply hoped someone was in at this hour.

           After hearing her make the appointment cupid replied, “You don't have to worry about me, sweetheart, we could just go back to your place,” the way he said it didn't sound as if  he was flirting or implying anything but maddy couldn't help the light flush that appeared upon her face.

           Ignoring her own embarrassment of her thoughts she made her way as professionally as she could to the shelter, thankful the resident medic was in at all hours it seemed, “Sorry but i'm taking you to make sure you have a clean bill of health. My name is Maddison by the way, but my friends call me Maddy. You are welcome to call me whatever you like,” she assured him with another gentle backstroke.

            “Well I'm cupid, but you can call me whatever you like,” He yawned, “Your planning on keeping me...right?” his exhaustion seemed to be taking over.

           “Cupid,” she stopped in her tracks to look down at him and make sure he could look her in the eyes, “As i have told everyone of my Mini’s and Bittys, you are welcome to stay with me as long as you like, and if you need or want anything Let me know, if it's in my power i'll get it for you,” She had to swallow after saying those words, she honestly didn't know if she felt she could let the winged bitty go back into a world so cruel as one that let him get so emotionally beat, that he was willing to just lay and wait to be crushed to death by a garbage truck

.           “C-...can i just stay close to you for now, Sweetheart?” he swallowed a no longer making eye contact with her he clutched her shirt small moist little tears were starting in his sockets.

           “Anything you want sugar skull,” she leaned down and gave him a gentle kiss atop the head, before making her way briskly to the shelter, she continued talking as they walked not sure if he was even still awake to hear her, “After we get you checked up, we can get you home, cleaned, fed and you can even rest alongside me in my bed as long as you like, i'm sure i'm even overdue for a nap.”

          “Y-..you won't leave me at the shelter will you?” his voice was quiet almost like he was fighting sleep.

          “Not unless you want me to leave the examining room, but i will be in the building the whole time,” she assured, she honestly wasn't even sure if someone could force her to leave without him by her side. She smiled down at him, “Guess i'm just an oddball who enjoys the company of some monsters far more than most humans,” she sighed looking about...she was getting close now, only another block or two if that, “But i have some humans who i do trust and many of whom work at the shelter were visiting for your check up,” She looked down to see his eyes closed and breathing slow and steady, smiling and thrilled that the small one felt so safe with her.

           She knocked on the entrance door of the still locked shelter, it was still well over 2 hours before they opened, “Maddy, come on in and lets get your friend looked at,” a large Pooka of a 6 ft. Rabbit, wearing dark grey pants, and a white lab coat open to reveal his fur covered chest, had opened the door and smiled at her as he let her in.

           “Good morning Doc, i'm sorry to have you up and working this early,” She spoke as she walked through the door.

            “Not to worry i was insuring some of the others were given their vitamins and medicine so by technical standards i was already working, so i doubt a quick look over of your little friend here would be too much trouble,” he closed and re locked the door behind maddy. He then held out a large soft gray paw.

             Maddy blinked at it as if it were a foreign object or about to do a trick, then it dawned on her he wanted the Bitty, she glanced down at the Bitty, she set down her bags and gently rubbed his back as she did not really wanting to hand him over. And simply to stall for more time to hold him as well as not to startle the poor dear she then began to try and wake him.

           “Cupid,” she whispered as she was rubbing his back, and unable to help it gently barely even running her hand over a large black wing, “We're here for your check up sugar skull.”

            Doc having seen maddy interact with her Bittys before didn't even raise a brow at the pet name as he watched the seen play out.

            “But i'm comfy here sweetheart, tell him to wait,” the bitty wined clutching her shirt fabric harder as he nuzzled the spot of flesh he was using as a pillow, he cracked open a eye and grabbed one of her fingers to cuddle almost like a teddy bear.

            Doc couldn't help but chuckle at the sight.

            “Cupid,” she was starting to feel a little silly now, especially with doc watching, “He is right here waiting, come on now,” she gently pulled him away feeling guilty as he flailed and flapped trying to get back to the warm and safe spot against her.

           “H-hay come on Sweetheart, no need to be so gruff,” when he realised he wasn't going to get back to her comforting spot that way he clung to her hand even with his wings and looked up at her with a pout.

            Maddy almost snapped him right back to her chest, she could almost feel her heartbreaking for making the small winged skeleton suffer, he just wanted to be close to her after all. Doc however took the opportunity to gently take the bitty from Maddy as if he were taking a wounded animal from a small sad child.

           “Don't worry, i have you, and your in safe hands,”the Rabbit smiled his ora of a fatherly warm safe figure, but the cupid looked back at Maddy he wanted to go back to the warmth of the determined figure who didn't Need him...

            “I appreciate it there pal. But big and burly aren't my type,” he spit back almost irritated at Doc's pink eyes back on Maddy with a pleading look in them, “Your not just leaving me here right? I mean, Y-your going to be here waiting right?”

              Maddy could see he looked terrified, She looked up at Doc with wide eyes who just gave a slight nod already knowing what she was going to ask, “If you like i can come with you if you like while you get looked over, I won't even leave the room your in ok?” she wished she could comfort him more.

             Cupid smiled looking relieved and a little more relaxed though not completely, “Thanks Sweetheart,” he allowed Doc to take him into one of the basic examination rooms, Maddy close by, as Cupid did his best to keep her in his sight insuring she was following.

            Despite having to be stripped down to his little heart print boxers he kept trying to insure Maddy was still sitting in the chair in the room, leaning over to try and look past Doc, even after she had fallen asleep in the chair he still kept her in his sight.

              Doc had given the Bitty a quick wipe down to insure there was no wounds being hidden by any of the dirt or grime, and even coaxed the bitty to drink a magic infused health shake to help replenish his low energy levels before finding the bitty a clean set of donated clothes that would fit him.

             “Miss,” Doc started, about to place a large paw upon Maddy’s shoulder to help wake her when cupid interrupted him.

            “N-no, it's fine.. I'll sit with her,” he was fixing the lapels on his new blazer jacket, admiring the handiwork, and admiring himself in a reflective surface at himself in the dark purple suit, and white shirt, thankful his shews still were decent though in need of a polish, impressed the large rabbit was able to find a outfit so close to one of the ones he used to call his favorites, though...Mistress didn't like it… he frowned at the memory before looking back over to Maddy. He hoped he could help make her happy, at least then… she wouldn't leave him to.

             Doc was watching the Bitty and almost as if he sensed the turmoil within the smaller monster he spoke, “I'm sure she would love for you to sit with her as she rested, but she has a group waiting for her at home, a group i'm sure is worried over how long its already taken her to get home from her early errands,” the pooka smiled down at her, “She is one of the few humans i can honestly say i respect. She even made that outfit you're wearing, she donates toys and when needed she comes down and helps with some of our more… well “special” cases. She seems to do well with the scared or aggressive ones.”

              “Is there a reason your getting so chatty about her?” he raised a brow at the rabbit, he was more than impressed with his human, she had the skill to make his outfit, but he didn't like how this rabbit seemed to know so much about her, just what was he to her?… wait.. His human? Crap focus Cupid focus...maybe the rabbit would be a good match for her? He did say he respected her, and from the interactions between the two they were obviously comfortable in the presence of one another.

              “She is a Good human, she even kept  mini who bit her, broke most of her things in a tantrum. She has Never abandoned a mini or bitty, not even bringing them to us unless they stated they didn't want her to keep them,” He looked over the sleeping form then back to the bitty, “Guess i'm just letting you know what your in for, She is a lifer, if you go with her willingly, and tell her you wish to stay there is very little you can do, that others haven't tried, or that she cant feel can be worked through. She will never toss you out. Now, how bout we wake her up?” He smiled at how the bitty was staring at maddy with a thoughtful expression but gave a nod.

            Maddy gave a yawn as she walked out of the shelter, cupid sitting upon her shoulder.

            “Any Chance i can get some smokes?” he asked lounging lazily upon her shoulder, winking at a passerby women who had locked eyes with him.

            “Sure but when we get home please try to smoke outside, i don't want it around Button or the babies,” Maddy changed direction instead of heading home making her way to the bitty shop, sending Alpha a text of an apology for the time she took, and that she would be a while longer.

            By the time she made it back to the apartment building, there was a steady stream of pink heart shaped smoke flowing behind her, her arms were hurting and she could hardly wait to lay back down to rest.

            “So sweetheart,” he started before blowing a kiss at the white rabbit who sat at the reception office who seemed confused at the action and the bitty, “Wanna tell me how your normal day goes?” he had changed his wing to a much smaller size, which intrigued Maddy and had she not been exhausted she would have asked about it.

           “Normally i wake up, Alpha has started making breakfast and gets me coffee… Benny our newest addition before you, he is a papy mini, he will fuss over the beds in the Smols room, Gnaw will eat his mustard, and King will have a bottle of milk while cuddling they both try and cuddle me while i try to drink my coffee, then they go off to take care of their little ones, Button he will often try to rush through eating to help with the babes. Stretch will be watching trash tv, and Benny well after breakfast… well he will sit beside me, or in my lap as i work, i don't know if he has fully ‘found’ his place in the pack just yet,” she bit her thumb wondering if she should go back to the mini center for some advice over it.

           Cupid chuckled, “I asked about your day Sweetheart,” he smiled at her amused.

           “Oh… uh… i get up… get coffee, snuggle some minis… eat something.. Get to work on orders after helping about the house, snuggle some more minis, take time for the house and run errands if i need it… wow i have no life outside the house now.. Huh..” she stopped now outside her door.

            “From the sounds of it though you spend it among family, although there is a lot of them..” he seemed to be thinking, “so what all kinds are there?...Exactly?”

             “Alpha is an AlphaDaddy, Stretch is a Pappy, Button is a Buttonbarry, and King, Gnaw, and Benny are all three  minis, though king is a sans, Gnaw an Edge, and Benny a papy,” she listed them.

           Cupid nodded thinking the list over, he wasn't personally familiar with Minis but if the names were a hint they were close to their Bitty counterpart he may be all right…

           Maddy was just now turning the doorknob to enter the home, wondering with how little she actually did in the home how did anything get done? Did Alpha Do it all? She must be a terrible Bitty caretaker to never had questioned it before… but her body was to soar to allow the mind to question it farther as she walked in to get at least one step closer to sleeping.   

[pyromania2667]

Uniting the Horde

Another reupload from my Ao3 https://archiveofourown.org/works/26124433 Btw, I take commissions sometimes, you can find me on my twitter to be most up to date when I open. https://twitter.com/Person5443

Anyway, have some Zul’jin x Thrall

The sun began to set upon the camp, the alliance between the Horde and the Amani trolls was thin, but a mutual goal reminded both leaders of their allegiance with each other.

As they set up camp beneath the starlit sky, there was a growing sense of distrust between the two, the trolls spoke of Thrall being an incapable leader, perhaps he didn’t have their goal in mind.

Not willing to give in to their thoughts, Zul’jin arranged a meeting with Thrall to negotiate plans together.

Thrall was in his tent, eyeing a map carefully with a small lantern being his only light source.

Zul’jin enters, his presence causing Thrall to turn around to acknowledge him. Zul’jin stands tall, patting his chest as a sign of respect.

Thrall grins softly, “No need for formalities, friend. We have plans to keep up if you want to reclaim your lands.”

Zul’jin raises an eyebrow, “Joo consider us friends?” To think they were but allies through convenience.

Thrall nods softly, bringing his gaze to meet Zul’jin’s prying eyes. The troll stands easily more than a head taller than the orc, but Thrall maintains his amicable demeanor.

Thrall speaks up, “I’ve been looking at this map one of my scouts had made, perhaps you would be willing to assist me?”

Zul’jin stirs in place, perhaps if they’re going to remain “friends”, it would be in his best interest to participate in such planning.

With a determined nod, Zul’jin steps forward to glance at the map with Thrall.

The narrow corner does not have enough room for the two of them, causing Zul’jin to give a frustrated sigh. Despite Thrall’s smaller physique, he’s still bulky enough to prevent him from getting closer to the small table.

Without any warning, Zul’jin presses himself against Thrall, towering over him as he reaches around to look at the map as well.

Thrall gives no response, content on allowing Zul’jin to be comfortable, perhaps this is a troll’s way of showing respect? He cannot say.

Thrall guides Zul’jin around the map, explaining to him what the orcish scribbles are supposed to represent.

Zul’jin remains pensive, dragging his massive finger across the map, still smothering thrall beneath his firm musculature.

Something about the way Thrall talks, perhaps it’s the underlying sense of regret and guilt over something. Perhaps it’s the passive nature of his speech, but Thrall carries a certain weight to him as if he were constantly trying to surmount his past.

In a moment of empathy, Zul’jin rests a hand on Thrall’s shoulder, “Someting wrong, Far see’a?”

Despite Zul’jin pressing himself against Thrall, the orc jumps at the troll’s touch, “No, nothing, Zul’jin… I made a promise to you. I’m going to help you fight against the elves, even if they’re joined with the Alliance, and so I shall.”

Zul’jin takes a deep sigh, rubbing Thrall’s shoulder gently, “Joo be a young leader, Thrall, but as a leader, ya must be able to take a stand, do what ya tink is right. Your people will follow your guidance if ya have a strong presence.”

Thrall nods, “Thank you, Zul’jin… Leading the horde isn’t going to be an easy task, but perhaps the two of us can form something greater one day…”

Zul’jin responds with a pensive Hmmm, but speaks nothing else otherwise.

“Perhaps it was not my place to bring up the idea, we should return to the task at hand,” Thrall mutters.

Zul’jin brings his other hand up to Thrall’s shoulder, gripping him tightly with both hands, “Ah, so de young chieftain wants to make a… peaceful negotiation, do ya?”

“Yes, such is true, Warlord.”

Zul’jin smirks, “Perhaps we shall consummate our new alliance, hmm?”

Thrall turns around to look up at Zul’jin, “Oh, you wish to officially join forces, Zul’jin?”

“More dan dat… Thrall,” Zul’jin responds with a coy grin.

Thrall takes a step back, unsure of the troll’s implications, “I’m sorry… What is it you wish then?”

Zul’jin lowers his head down to the smaller orc, bringing a hand up to pull his scarf out from over his tusks, “I want you, Thrall…” he croons.

Without any further warning, Zul’jin leans forward, gently placing a hand at the back of Thrall’s hair. Navigating through his tusks carefully, he pulls the orc into his firm embrace. Thrall struggles briefly but quickly relents, letting himself fall into the troll’s kiss.

After a moment, Thrall pulls back as links of saliva drip between the two from Zul’jin’s sloppy presence.

“Zul’jin…” Thrall mutters, “I didn’t expect… I don’t think this is a good time…”

Zul’jin brings a hand up, shushing Thrall with his large index, “Joo said we’re friends, no? Dis is how I’ll know dat you are devoted ta helpin’ de Amani.”

Thrall takes a shallow breath, he can feel Zul’jins girth begin prodding at him beneath his loincloth.

Zul’jin grips Thrall by his shoulders once more, dragging him to the center of the tent, where there is enough space to accommodate their combined bulk.

“Zul’jin…” Thrall whispers in a slight protest.

“Now, now, Far See��a, don’ talk back to de troll if ya wanna make a lastin’ impression.”

Zul’jin brings his hand to Thrall’s clothing, slowly undoing it before pulling his shirt off of his chest.

“Now dat is a sight,” Zul’jin teases.

“Not quite like the view I’ve been admiring all night…”

Zul’jin smirks, bringing his arms up above his head, flexing his abs for the orc, “Like what ya see?”

“Verily,” Thrall responds.

“Good, den ya better get ya hands busy if ya wanna see more…”

Thrall swallows softly as he slowly brings his arms up to admire Zul’jin’s impressive physique. Unlike the standard bulk orcs carry, Zul’jin is far more chiseled and cut. Svelte, but still notably built. Aside from the fact that he is significantly taller, Zul’jin’s musculature is larger than Thrall’s

Zul’jin lowers his arms as he continues posing for Thrall, to which Thrall brings up a hand to admire the troll’s perfect body. Even his biceps and triceps are larger than his own, it is truly a marvelous sight to witness…

With an eager inch forward, Thrall brings his hands up to grope at Zul’jin’s firm pectorals.

“Mmm, been a while, Thrall..?” Zul’jin mocks.

Thrall doesn’t grace the prodding with a response, only continuing with the mesmerised fondling.

With a wry smirk, Zul’jin pulls Thrall closer, smothering him within his muscular torso. Thrall grunts slightly before succumbing to his grasp, letting his tongue explore the thin lining of fur on Zul’jin’s chest.

Zul’jin slowly brings his arms around the orc, helping him out of his clothes until he is inevitably unburdened by clothing.

“Just gonna lick my pecs all night or d’ya wanna get to de main event?”

Thrall fails to cease his licking, only bringing his gaze up to meet Zul’jin’s.

Zul’jin brings his arms down to cup Thrall’s rear end, pulling him in closer, slowly grinding himself against the orc. Thrall grunts with need as he can feel the troll’s considerable bulge press up against him. He looks up toward Zul’jin with a hopeful glance.

Zul’jin gives a nod of assurance, “Ya betta take it off since ya want it so badly.”

With fierce determination, Thrall grips the hem of Zul’jins loincloth, dragging it down. His overeagerness bested him as the moment he pulled the cloth past Zul’jin’s erection, it springs up, hitting him across the face.

With a mocking chuckle, Zul’jin brings a hand down to gently pet the young orc’s head.

Once the several inches of the troll’s glory has been unveiled, Thrall cannot help but bring his face to admire the shape of the shaft. It pulses slightly with need, ready to put the orc in his place.

Thrall takes in a deep sniff, continuing to admire every inch of Zul’jin’s flesh. The scent is unlike anything he’s taken in before, his presence is but a call he cannot resist. The lure of his existence, a newfound purpose in this very moment, all contained in the junction of Zul’jin’s hips.

He slowly slips his tongue out, prodding at Zul’jin’s glans. The troll responds with an eager thrust, further pressing himself against Thrall

Zul’jin slowly brings his hand down, pulling Thrall closer to his groin. Reflexively the orc wraps his mouth around the troll’s impressive girth.

Thrall struggles to contain the full might of Zul’jin’s presence, desperately working his tongue around the throbbing erection to the best of his abilities.

Without warning, Zul’jin thrusts into him while pulling his head deeper down his length until Thrall is pressed against his groin.

Thrall chokes slightly but quickly manages to adjust to the predicament as he gives a deep moan.

Gripping Thrall’s hair tightly, Zul’jin continues bucking into his face. A steady stream of pre leaks from the tip of his length, directly into Thrall’s throat. Thrall reaches his arm down, wrapping his thick hand around his erection as he desperately begins jerking himself off.

After a few minutes of getting his face stuffed, Zul’jin slowly pulls out, much to Thrall’s dismay.

“I tink it’s time I give ya what joo been wantin’ all night.” Zul’jin growls.

Thrall looks up at him, his saliva dripping from his lips, “Anything… Zul’jin…”

With a sly grin, Zul’jin pushes Thrall down to the ground before firmly gripping his hips and flipping him onto his knees.

“You. Are. Mine. Thrall…” Zul’jin states as he kneels behind him.

“Yes… I’m yours, Zul’jin… Do what you will, please, I beg of you...”

Zul’jin aligns the tip of his girth to Thrall’s backdoor. Once aligned, he slowly brings himself to penetrate him. He leans closer, letting his arms travel up the orc’s form until he has him completely wrapped within his embrace.

Thrall pants softly, bringing an arm back down to his erection, eagerly masturbating himself.

Zul’jin smirks softly, letting one hand rub Thrall’s firm pectorals as the other slowly digs around the orc’s mouth.

Thrall eagerly begins sucking on the troll’s thick finger with a muffled moan, desperate to do anything for his new companion.

Zul’jin leans down, giving Thrall a long affectionate lick across his face, causing the orc to shiver in anticipation.

“Please, Zul’jin…” Thrall squeaks, muffled by Zul’jin’s hand, “Please, I beg of you, put it in all the way! I want you inside me...”

“Mmm, so de orc finally learned his place beneath de trolls… I could get used ta dis…”

With a firm thrust, Zul’jin bucks himself as far as he can go into the orc’s accommodating ass. Thrall gives a muffled cry of pleasure as he continues sucking on the troll’s finger.

“Dat’s a good boy…” Zul’jin mocks before giving Thrall several affectionate licks.

With a low groan of ecstasy, Thrall desperately bucks back into Zul’jin, trying to get the most out of his presence. His sphincter clenches as his climax finally hits, shooting several ropes of cum onto the floor beneath him. Thrall reaches a hand up to grip at one of the tassels of Zul’jin’s hair draped over his shoulder, pulling the troll in with gentle eagerness.

Zul’jin gives an affectionate growl as Thrall desperately attempts to milk him of everything he’s worth.

“Got a long night ahead of ya, Thrall…”

Thrall moans softly as he continues to feverishly stroke himself.

Zul’jin reaches an arm down, pushing aside his hand to jerk the orc off himself.

Completely overwhelmed by Zul’jin’s efforts, Thrall can feel himself go limp, submitting completely to the stronger troll, letting him have his way without any restraint.

He is unsure of how long he’s been bred by the troll leader, but the hours of ecstasy is nothing he’s willing to give up for the world.

After reaching the height of his climax several more times, Zul’jin’s pace begins to lose its rhythm. His manhood begins pulsating eagerly within Thrall’s abused rear, nearing his climax.

With a howl of pleasure, Zul’jin gives one last powerful thrust, hilting as much of his length as he can fit within the orc.

Gripping thrall tightly by his hips, Zul’jin unloads every ounce of seed he can possibly deposit. The orc cannot hope to hold the amount of mojo Zul’jin is giving him as it quickly begins pouring down his leg, spilling onto the ground.

“Mmmph… Zul’jin…” Thrall finally manages to speak up from the abuse he’s been given.

“Thrall..?”

“Thank you… I hope… I hope this makes us proper allies…”

“Mmm, it sure does, Far See’a…”

Zul’jin clutches onto the orc tightly, it isn’t until now Thrall realizes the troll has remained completely hard.

“We still have until de mornin’... Perhaps we will officially announce our unity den, but for now… you’re all mine, Thrall…”

Thrall pants softly, “Yes… Please, I don’t want you to stop…”

[blogwritetheworld]

Q&A with Mystery Writing Guest Judge Rebecca Podos

Think about your favorite mystery novel. Is it filled with twists, turns, and red herrings? Did the author leave you hanging on tenterhooks trying to figure out “whodunit” right until the very end? Yes to all of the above? We thought so! This week, Mystery Writing Competition guest judge and writer Rebecca Podos walks you through her tried and true methods for writing a story filled with suspense and mystique.

Your debut novel, The Mystery of Hollow Places, came out last year. Why did you choose to write a mystery novel?

I grew up reading mystery books for kids—Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys (the mid-90’s updates where everyone had boyfriends and girlfriends), The Boxcar Children and Babysitters Club mystery specials, and for slightly more sophisticated tastes, From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. I wasn’t any good at solving the cases ahead of time, but that was okay, because I knew that by the end, I would have all the answers, and that was very comforting.

When I set out to write a book for teens in one of my earliest beloved genres, I wanted to write a detective character who also grew up on mysteries, and believed wholeheartedly in that classic narrative structure, in the promise that there are answers to every question, if only you’re patient and clever enough to seek them out. But life is messy, and the seemingly straight-forward puzzle she sets out to solve evolves and complicates along the way, until she realizes that there are no easy answers, no neatly guaranteed solutions.

So that was kind of the task I set for myself in writing Hollow Places: to craft an intriguing mystery, but also, to challenge their typical structure. I have no idea if it actually worked :)  

Mystery writing, in particular, relies on the writer keeping readers on the edge of their seats with twists, turns, red herrings and the like. How can readers make sure their story is gripping right until the end?

Twists and turns are definitely important! I think that, like in any story, momentum is so important—this sense that events are snowballing toward their inevitable conclusion. For me, in this case, that means that every choice the character makes, every bit of evidence they uncover and every lead they pursue, directly motivates the next step of the mystery, even if it’s a misstep. Otherwise, they’re just sort of stumbling from clue to clue.

That also means establishing a strong main character at the heart of the mystery. Because sometimes, the detective has to mess up, make bad guesses, let their own biases and assumptions get in the way.

Our young writers can submit a short story or an excerpt of a larger work. While most are familiar with the short story format, what advice do you have for writers who are planning to submit an excerpt that won't necessarily come to any sort of resolution but must still stand on its own?

There are plenty of opportunities to find smaller, stand-alone excerpts within your novel, because there are lots of mini arcs within the larger, book-length plot arc. A moment where your detective reevaluates the path they’re on, or uncovers a game-changing clue. Or it can be a quieter moment of character growth, where some event or encounter causes them to see the world in a slightly different way. Ideally, you want some sort of evolution within your selection.

What are some of your favorite YA mystery reads?

There are so many great ones out, just in the last year! I love Brittany Cavallaro’s A Study in Charlotte series, which is a modern day, gender-flipped Holmes/ Watson relationship. Kim Savage’s thrillers are gorgeous and dark, so I recommend After the Woods and Beautiful Broken Girls. Caleb Roehrig’s Last Seen Leaving is a very cool, LGBTQ noir homage. 2016 was a good year for YA mysteries!

What are you looking for in a strong entry?

A fresh voice and a fully realized character; they don’t need to be likeable, and I don’t need to want to be friends with them, but I have to believe in them, and understand why they make the choices they make. Also, this being a mystery competition, a compelling mystery! Something with real physical and emotional stakes that escalate throughout the story or excerpt, so that I care desperately about the outcome.

You studied literature at Emerson College in Boston. What advice do you have for young writers who are interested in pursuing writing as part of their higher education?

I did—I actually got my BA in Creative Writing in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and my MFA in Writing, Literature and Publishing at Emerson. And I went into both programs with different goals. As an undergrad, the decision to pursue writing as a degree was sort of a scary one, because everybody asks “What are you ever going to do with that? How are you going to get a job?”

First of all, having a college degree is, of course, very important for your future. But I think being passionate about what you study is a lot more important than choosing the Most-Statistically-Likely-to-Get-You-Any-Kind-of-Job major. Whether you want a career in publishing or not, the ability to write well and to think creatively will genuinely be an asset. But aside from that, you only get so much time in your life to concentrate solely on the subjects and projects that you love. And if you limit yourself when you’re young, it will only get harder as you grow older, when financial and personal responsibilities start to pile up. So why not study something that fascinates you? Why not allow yourself this time to do what you love, amongst people who share your passions, and see what comes of it?