#i couldn’t tell if this drawing was Actually Good or not so. we’ll see?

[willstragicapples]

wow i’m back! and with an Art at that. crazy.

this man has got me in a chokehold. it’s becoming an issue.

[deliciousangelfestival]

Another Ending - 6 | spy!Bucky

Character: ex!Bucky Barnes x Female!Reader

Summary: It was supposed to be a short week watching over your niece, who loves romance books. She thought you were just a normal aunt, but it turns out you have secrets.

Tags: Spies, action, threat, offense, fight scene, violence, romance, comedy.

Chapter 1 , Chapter 2 , Chapter 3 , Chapter 4 , Chapter 5 , Chapter 6 ,-

Main Masterlist || If you enjoy my work, please consider buying me a coffee on Ko-fi 🙏🏻

Thank you to everyone who has read this chapter. Leave a comment and Reblog, please. I'd love to hear your thoughts. ❤️

Lori was spinning around the room, singing with a mischievous grin on her face, "Aunt is a nasty girl, yeah, she's a nasty girl," mimicking the moves from a viral dance she must have seen online.

You rolled your eyes, wincing slightly as Bucky gently cleaned and treated the wound on your arm. He glanced at Lori with a mixture of amusement and annoyance.

Meanwhile, Henry, sitting nearby with a puzzled look, watched Lori's performance unfold. "What on earth is she doing?" he asked, clearly baffled by her antics.

"She's making fun of me," you replied, sighing as you glanced over at your niece. Lori continued her exaggerated dance, clearly enjoying herself.

Bucky, focused on wrapping the bandage around your arm, muttered, "She's not nasty." His voice was calm, but there was a flicker of tension in his eyes.

Lori suddenly stopped dancing and sprinted over to you, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Tell me more about your ex!" she demanded, her curiosity getting the better of her.

You noticed Bucky’s hands falter for a moment as he tied the bandage a little tighter than necessary, his jaw clenched ever so slightly. "He's not my ex," you corrected, your tone firm but tinged with frustration.

Lori giggled, clearly enjoying teasing you. "Yeah... right..." she drawled, drawing out the word as she smirked knowingly.

You shook your head, exasperated. Your niece, always with her head in the clouds, had now latched onto the idea of some dramatic romance after discovering that you had encountered someone from your past.

And that someone was the very reason you were sitting here now, with fresh bandages and a sore arm. Lori’s song and dance were just her way of processing the excitement of what she imagined to be a grand love story, not realizing the pain and complexity it actually brought.

🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀

24 hours ago

"What you said is pointless because we don't have the data," you replied, frustration lacing your tone.

Henry shrugged nonchalantly. "Well, that might be true, but I know where they hide it."

A groan escaped your lips, and you brought a hand to cover your face. "I hate where this is going."

"Why?" Lori asked, her eyes lighting up with interest.

Bucky leaned forward, his expression serious. "You want us to steal it," he stated flatly, already seeing the direction Henry was headed.

Henry chuckled, waving his hand dismissively. "Steal is such a strong word. I prefer to think of it as... liberating the truth. Recovering what's rightfully ours."

You shot him a skeptical look. "Liberating the truth? That sounds like something straight out of a heist movie."

Lori’s eyes widened with excitement. "A heist? Oh, this is so cool! Can I help? Please, let me help!"

Bucky gave her a wary glance. "This isn’t a game, Lori. It’s dangerous."

Lori bounced on her toes, her enthusiasm undiminished. "I know, but I want to be part of it! I can do it, I promise! You said I was a good actress, remember? I could be the distraction or, like, the tech whiz or something! Whatever you need!"

Henry grinned, clearly amused by her enthusiasm. "See? The girl’s got the right attitude! Nobody would suspect someone like her to be involved in espionage."

You sighed but couldn’t help the smile that tugged at your lips. "Alright, alright. If Lori wants in, then we’ll find a role for her. But if this goes sideways, it’s on you, Henry."

Lori clapped her hands, practically vibrating with excitement. "Yes! This is going to be awesome! I can’t wait!"

Henry clapped his hands together, his smile broadening. "That's the spirit! Now, let's get to work. We have some planning to do."

At Charity Event

The grand lobby of the company was abuzz with activity. Children laughed and played, their faces painted with bright colors. The "Make It Together" charity event, hosted by the company’s CEO, had drawn a large crowd.

Both of you are planning to steal data from a CEO known for holding everyone’s dirty secrets. This CEO also loves to host charity events at his company to enhance his public image and boost his business.

Dressed as a happy family, you and Bucky played the part of doting parents, while Lori, full of youthful enthusiasm, easily fit the role of your daughter. Henry, blending in with the crowd, kept a vigilant eye on the situation.

Henry knew about the vault because he had been there when the CEO proudly showcased it and placed the secret data inside.

As you and Bucky moved toward the restricted areas, you leaned in close, whispering urgently, “If things go south, remember—no matter what happens, save Lori first. She’s the priority.”

Bucky’s brow furrowed in concern. “I don’t think—”

You cut him off, your voice firm but laden with emotion. “This is my only request, Bucky. Please.”

Bucky nodded, his expression serious. “I understand. But I’ll do everything I can to keep you safe too.”

As you and Lori approached the vault with Henry’s directions, Bucky positioned himself by the entrance, watching for any sign of trouble. You worked swiftly with the digital key cracker, trying to stay calm despite the tension.

Inside the Vault

The vault door opened with a soft click, revealing rows of safety deposit boxes and data drives. Lori, playing her role perfectly, had successfully distracted the guard, allowing you and Bucky to enter unnoticed.

“Got it,” you whispered, retrieving the data drive from its place on the shelf. “Let’s get out.”

Suddenly, a familiar voice cut through the tense atmosphere. “Well, well, if it isn’t my favorite double agent.”

You froze, hearing that familiar voice filled with spite. Standing in front of you was Romeo, your former colleague. He leaned casually against the doorframe, his eyes locked on you with a mixture of surprise and annoyance.

“Romeo,” you said, trying to remain composed. “What are you doing here?”

Romeo’s smirk was a blend of flirtatiousness and anger. “I didn’t expect to see you here, especially not with him."

Bucky stepped forward, his eyes narrowing. “We don’t have time for this.”

Romeo’s gaze flicked to Bucky, then back to you. His voice dripped with sarcasm. “I suppose it was only a matter of time before you chose another. I’m just curious—did you miss me at all, or was it all just part of the job?”

You kept your tone even, but the past echoed in your words. “It was always part of the job, Romeo. Nothing more.”

Romeo's eyes flashed with a mix of fury and betrayal. He leaned in closer, his voice dripping with contempt. “Of all people, you choose to work with him? The most wanted fugitive and the worst traitor?” His tone was laced with disbelief as he gestured toward Bucky with a sharp, accusing finger.

Bucky stepped in, his voice firm. “Well, she chose me.”

The words hit Romeo hard. His face contorted with anger. “Oh, so that’s it? You’re just going to flaunt it in my face? How charming. I always knew you had a talent for stealing—both hearts and secrets.”

Lori, watching from a distance, could hardly believe the scene unfolding before her. She stayed silent, her eyes wide with excitement and curiosity. This is a LOVE TRIANGLE!

You took a deep breath, trying to focus on the task at hand. “Romeo. This isn’t about us anymore.”

Romeo’s anger flared. “I guess some things never change. You always had a knack for making everything personal.”

Before you could react, Romeo lunged, reaching for the data drive. Bucky moved to intercept him, but Romeo’s partner appeared, grabbing your arm and twisting it painfully.

“Gotcha,” the partner sneered.

You struggled free, delivering a swift kick to his side. The fight erupted in full force as Bucky and Romeo grappled, exchanging blows. You managed to push back your attacker, but Romeo drew a knife, aiming it directly at Lori.

Without thinking, you threw yourself in front of her, taking the hit to your side. Bucky’s eyes widened in horror. “Y/N!”

You gritted your teeth, trying to stay upright. “Get Lori out of here!”

Bucky fought off Romeo and his partner with renewed determination, eventually knocking Romeo out cold. He helped you toward the exit, Lori’s worried face visible in the doorway.

Henry, who had been monitoring from outside, was already pulling up in the getaway car. “Get in!” he shouted.

Bucky helped you into the back seat, and Lori followed closely. The car sped away from the building, leaving the chaos behind.

As the adrenaline began to wane, Bucky pressed a hand to your wound, his face a mask of concern. “Hold on, we’re almost clear.”

Lori, her face pale but determined, asked quietly, “Aunt, are you okay?”

You managed a weak smile despite the pain. “I’m fine, Lori. Just a scratch.”

Henry glanced back through the rearview mirror. “Was it worth it?”

You held up the data drive, the evidence of the CEO’s wrongdoings. “We got what we needed.”

Henry grinned, relieved. “Then let’s get out of here before more agents show up.”

The car sped into the night, leaving the confrontation and the chaos of the charity event behind. You leaned back in your seat, clutching the drive tightly. Despite the pain and the narrow escape, you knew you had accomplished your mission.

🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀

Present Time

Lori was still buzzing with excitement, peppering you with questions about Romeo. Bucky, visibly agitated, clenched his jaw and avoided eye contact, his jealousy simmering beneath the surface.

Meanwhile, Henry was in the other room, trying to uncripted the drive. He took a drag from his cigar but suddenly erupted into a fit of uncontrollable coughing. The sound echoed through the room, making him look vulnerable.

Lori quickly sprang into action, grabbing a glass of water and handing it to Henry with a concerned expression. “Here, drink this,” she said softly.

Henry accepted the glass with a grateful nod. “Thank you.”

Lori watched him closely, her concern deepening. “How long have you been sick?”

Henry looked up, surprised by her insight. “How did you know?”

Lori pointed at the medicine in his bag, her voice carrying a tone of familiarity. “I used to help my mother take care of my father when he was sick. I remember most of the names of the medicines he used.”

Henry was impressed by her knowledge. His gaze softened, though his eyes still held a trace of sadness. “I just found out,” he admitted. “My life is now just counting days.” The doctor didn’t tell him, but he knew. That’s why he doesn’t want to die miserably in the nursing home.

Lori’s expression reflected a deep empathy, recognizing the bitterness in his words that mirrored her own father’s struggles. She glanced at the cigar and whiskey near Henry, then met his eyes with a gentle resolve.

“Do what you love while you still can,” she said quietly.

Henry chuckled, a bitter but appreciative smile playing on his lips. “I will.”

🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀

As Bucky finished treating your wound, the dim light from the room cast soft shadows across his face. He looked up, his expression serious yet tender.

“You’re in the danger zone, James. Why did you try to find me?” you asked, your voice tinged with concern.

Bucky’s gaze locked with yours, filled with a depth of emotion that made your heart ache. “I realized that knowing I can’t be with you forever is haunting me.”

You studied him, feeling the weight of his words. The room seemed to shrink around you, making the moment feel intensely intimate.

Bucky continued, his voice hushed but resolute. “I know I’m a bad person. I’ve lived my life constantly looking over my shoulder. If I die tomorrow, at least I need you to know how I feel. I don’t want to leave this world with regrets.”

You felt a lump in your throat, a mix of frustration and tenderness. “You’re a fool, Bucky.”

He let out a soft, bittersweet chuckle, a faint smile playing on his lips. “I know.”

“That’s why I liked you,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper. The words hung in the air between you, carrying an unspoken promise.

Bucky’s smile grew, and he reached out, gently cupping your face in his hands. The warmth of his touch sent a shiver down your spine. “I’ve always liked you too. Even when I didn’t want to admit it.”

His eyes searched yours, and for a moment, the world outside seemed to disappear. You could see the vulnerability and longing in his gaze, and it mirrored your own feelings.

Slowly, he leaned in, his breath mingling with yours. “If we make it out of this, let’s promise to take whatever chances we can get. Let’s not waste another moment.”

Your heart raced as you closed the distance between you, sharing a kiss that spoke of all the unspoken words and emotions that had built up over time. The kiss was both tender and passionate, a release of all the feelings that had been pent up for so long.

When you finally pulled away, your foreheads rested together, and Bucky’s eyes were filled with a mix of relief and hope. “Let’s fight for a future where we can be together,” he whispered.

You nodded, your heart full of resolve and affection. “We will.”

As the romantic moment unfolded, a sense of quiet intimacy enveloped you and Bucky. But that peace was abruptly interrupted by the sound of a soft chuckle. Both of you turned, your sighs of frustration mingling with the realization that you were being watched.

There, peeking around the edge of the door, was Lori, her eyes wide with curiosity and amusement. You and Bucky exchanged a knowing glance, recognizing that your private moment had been intruded upon.

"Lori!" you called out, your voice a mix of exasperation and embarrassment.

Lori’s face broke into a playful grin, and she quickly darted away, her laughter echoing down the hallway as she ran.

Bucky shook his head with a chuckle, the tension from the moment melting away. You couldn’t help but smile at Lori’s antics, feeling a sense of warmth despite the interruption.

Bucky turned to you, his eyes softening with affection. “Well, at least she’s in good spirits.”

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[a-ikuoliver]

Mercury your event is SO cute I’m actually obsessed! I’m such a beer girlie, but if I had to pick a drink it’s gotta be a jägerbomb! And for the character you pick because I want you to be as free as possible I’m ready for anything👀

ehehehe i was a lil cheeky with this one, i leaned more into the leave you wanting more vibe with the jagerbomb also im sorry for the lack of beer i've never met a beer or cider i've liked LMAO i was going to make this endeavor but the more i wrote it the more it worked better with bakugou but i hope u like it!! teehee birthday bash intro + rules + menu | event masterlist

anyone who wasn’t a couple jagerbombs deep could tell you how bad of an idea jagerbombs are at an work party, but when you work at one of the most popular bars in musutafu, it’s more a rite of passage.

not even here a year, your work-best friend was the very first to inform you of the notorious annual work party, how messy they get, how she’d gone home with the chef one year, and how many servers had crashed in the booths over the years. finally, the time had come for the party, your friend already abandoning you to flirt with the chef again, although, you couldn’t play the morally high act about it when all your attention was on your boss behind the counter.

walking behind the bar, you perused the liquor on offer, mostly mid-tier stuff, but god, did the imported stuff look good right about now, something smooth to take your mind off of him. fuck, why’d he have to roll his sleeves up like that? his forearm muscles enough to make you wonder what else lies beneath that damn shirt, an endless expanse of muscles underneath a wife-pleaser singlet, thick thighs caged in his expensive slacks.

“need some help?” lost in your daydream, bakugou is beside you before you realise how long you’ve been ogling him, your indecisive daze in front of the alcohol drawing his attention (any excuse to talk to you, really). you’re nowhere near drunk enough for him to be this close, to get this messy. yet.

“you don’t have my beer on tap.” his eyes nearly roll back at your sweet tone, your gentle teasing that’s been driving him up the wall for months. he stays steadfast, dark garnet eyes unwavering, despite the top you’d worn specifically for them to wander.

“let me make it up to you,” he takes another step closer, the expensive scent of his cologne filling your lungs when he reaches around you for the distinct green bottle, trapping you between his biceps for a fleeting moment, “we’ll do something i used to have in my party days.”

grabbing two pint glasses and two shot glasses, you watch him work with the kind of swiftness and expertise decades behind a bar could give a man, every twist of his wrist calculates, not a single drop of jagermeister or redbull spilling, even when the latter threatened to bubble over the top of the glass.

“you used to do jagerbombs?” you can’t help but sound incredulous, your eyebrows shooting up to your hairline when you accept the drink from him. mesmerised as he pours his own, you try to imagine him younger, chugging back the bomb, swallowing shot after shot, stumbling home in the am. even in your daydream, his hair had speckles of salt through the blond of his hair, the silver fox look worked too well for him to see him any other way.

“why are you so shocked? i was twenty once.”

“it’s hard to imagine you… like that.”

“like what?”

“you know, a party animal, i can only see you drinking bourbon on the rocks.” he chuckles at the memories, of sleepless nights, of horrendous hangovers.

“i could still drink you under the table.” he challenges, already reaching to pour another, you try not to laugh in his face, the image of your all-powerful boss drunk and stumbling was something you’d pay to see. with a smile you could only describe as evil, hot, you clinked your drink with his before knocking it back, “sure you can, old man.”

after too many bombs, an assortment of other shots, some cocktail bakugou poured you and a sip (you weren’t game enough to have more of it, there’s a reason you weren’t a bartender) of the one you poured him, the pair of you stumbled into his office at the back of the bar. half the buttons are undone on his shirt, your hands sliding beneath the hem of his shirt even when he pulled away from you long enough to unlock the door, pulling you inside with him and nudge it closed once more before turning all his attention back to you; the way you stared up at him with glassy eyes, the way your lipstick smudged under your bottom lip, how your chest heaved (the way your tits looked when you did), how your dress rode up when you pulled yourself onto his desk, tugging him in by his belt loops.

he can’t even find it in him to care about the time-sheets crinkling under your ass when you bite your lip, can’t care you’re his employee and his mind goes blank of everything when you wrap your thighs around his hips. fuck, you’re irresistible like this; arching into him, kissing and biting his jaw, one hand tugging your dress further up your thighs, the other working off his belt to slide into his slacks, searching for more and more, more he wants to give you.

you’re just so, so, so hot… and he’s soft. he’s fucking soft. he finally has you under him and he can’t get it up.

let’s hope the alcohol buzzing through your blood is enough to clear your memory of this in the morning.

[yoditopascal]

Everything I Lost But Found In You

summary: Shinji reflects on everything he lost and gained from Aizen’s betrayal.

warnings: fluff, slice of life, post TYBW, pre-CFYOW, Sen is a tsundere, slightly suggestive content

a/n: I’ve been working on this OC since 2008 and I’m so excited to share her with you guys! The first chapter is short and sweet but I promise the next ones will be longer!

Masterlist//Next Chapter

Everything

Shinji leaned against the wooden railing of his office of the 5th Division headquarters, the air infused with the sweet scent of fresh cherry blossoms, flowing gently through his hair as his wife worked diligently behind him on his paperwork that was now a week late.

As he started to contemplate the twists of fate that had brought them together, warm memories of their earlier days resurfaced to the forefront of his mind. Just as he was starting to get lost in his thoughts the sound of his wife getting to her feet drew him back to his reality. Sen stretches behind him and lets out a huff, as she stood from his pile of unattended documents at his desk, drawing his eye to the undeniable curve of her belly that marked her heavily pregnant form with a smile.

She turned to him, a mix of frustration and affection in her eyes as she started to chide him for letting paperwork pile up so much over the past week.

“I swear the older you get the lazier you get Shinji.” She said with a frown though he could tell from the mischievous shine in her eye that the jab wasn’t serious.

“You can’t keep relying on me to forge your signature, Shinji. I won’t always be here to bail you out, especially when Asahi gets here!” she scolded, but her voice lacking any real bite to it as she rubbed at her swollen stomach. He couldn’t help but let out a soft chuckle as he came back into the office space, stepping closer to her and attempting to steal a kiss to her cheek as he gently rubbed her stomach, placing a warm calloused hand over her much smaller one.

“You shouldn’t stress so much. It’s not good for him,” he teased, knowing she wouldn’t let him off the hook entirely. “Besides I said I’d take care of it when we got back, it’s not my fault you decided to start doin’ it before we leave.” he added, knowing how excited she was to see her friends and their kid again even if it was just to watch Chad’s boxing match over at Ichigo and Orihime’s.

Sen smiled at his affectionate antics but swatted him away playfully, “That’s because I knew you wouldn’t do it.” she waved him off as she continued. “Now go and find Atsushi, we gotta leave soon and she’s probably off training with Ichika so I’m sure she’ll need to get cleaned up before we go.”

“Go on, get moving, or we’ll be late!” she urged, her tone light but stern as she waddled past him towards their shared home. “So cold.” Shinji’s expression fell into a mock pout at her dismissal. “At least I know Atsushi loves me,” he quipped back at her retreating form. As Sen walked toward their home to get ready for their trip to the Human World, he continued to admire her form with a smile, hand resting in his cheek as he leaned in the railing of his office once again.

How the hell had he gotten so lucky in life?

The haunting memories of Aizen’s betrayal weighed heavy on him, even to this day, but amidst all the loss, there was a flicker of light, his love for Sen and the family they’ve come to make together never failed to ease his dread over what had come to pass.

He recalled the very first moment their paths crossed back in the tea scented walls of her father Kisuke’s peculiar shop, the warmth he felt the first time she had called him by his first name, their first date that she, to this day, still refused to acknowledge as their first actual date, their first fight, fueled solely by Shinji’s jealousy, over her spending more time with Kensei than him, the first time Sen patched up his wounds and chastised him for not letting her help him in the first place. Their first “I love yous” even though neither of them said it directly, they both knew the implications of what they had said meant to the other.

It was in those moments that he began to understand the depth of her feelings, she loved him, just as fiercely and unconditionally as she loved her family and he’d be a liar if he said he didn’t love her just as strong back then even if he hadn’t known it yet.

[statistically-spencer]

Fortunate Dream PT. 2

Summary: Your dream of joining the BAU was becoming more and more real. How will you handle sharing a private jet with your favorite characters?

Pairing: Spencer Reid x fem!reader (eventual), BAU members x reader(platonic)

A/N: Sorry for the long wait on this one! I finished Calculus 1 in 4-weeks while also being in a musical so I ran out of time there for a bit. Enjoy!

w/c; 783

Part 1 here

As confused as you were, you were having a great time experiencing the relationship that dream-you had with the members of the BAU. Everyone seemed to like you just fine.

On the jet, you found a place to sit in the window seat on the opposite side of the isle, where Derek sat, leaving an empty seat next to yourself. Derek gave you an assuring smile. You wondered how many traits that you, and this version of you had that overlapped. Did the team know about your fear of flying? Did they know about your raging crush on Dr. Spencer Reid? Did they know that you had absolutely no idea what you were doing and that you totally should not be there right now?? 

Glancing up, you made eye contact with Spencer, who seemed to be walking suspiciously close to your row.

Oh.

You tried to act natural as he took a seat next to you. 

You didn’t have to act natural for long, though, because in an instant the jet began to roll forward, faster and faster.

You swallowed deeply.

“Are you okay, Y/n? I know you never like flying but you seem like something is really off.”

“No, I’m okay.” You lied, “I’m just... I just didn’t sleep much last night and I’m really tired.”

“Oh, well you know, there’s no need to worry about turbulence. If anything, we should really be concerned about-”

“Spencer, no offense, but if you’re about to tell me about how what we should really be concerned about is the onset of a thunderstorm, contributing to the possibility of microbursts, I’d rather not hear it.”

You heard a chuckle and looked up to see Derek standing next to you. 

“Oooh, she’s got you figured out, Reid. Better be careful.”

You blushed. You were only remembering something Spencer had said in an episode of Criminal Minds. Had that episode happened yet in this timeline? 

“Oh no... I was just... I just don’t need to be any more freaked out than I already am right now.” You cleared your throat. 

Spencer smiled at you, “We’ll be fine.”

You were trying to think of something to say to the man. Anything. This was your chance to talk to the love of your life and you were drawing a blank. You couldn’t think of one clever thing to say to him. You just kept looking up at him, and whenever you looked, it seemed like he was looking, too. Which was probably a good sign, right? Instead, it was mostly silent. With you making the occasional attempt to look fine whenever there was turbulence. 

In the midst of everything, you forgot that you were, for the time being at least, a real FBI agent. And, you were in fact, actually dealing with criminals. However, those facts became extremely apparent when Garcia phoned in with details about the case. 

It was hard to focus when Spencer was sitting next to you the entire time. Being so real. So cute. So... Good smelling somehow. 

“-Well, we know hardly anything about the suspect.”

If you had been in a laughing mood after hearing all of the gruesome details of the case, you would’ve laughed at Emily’s statement.

“Male. Thirty-five-”

You froze, realizing that you and Spencer were saying the same thing.

“...Keeps within his inner circle.” You finished, looking Reid up and down slowly.

A quick glance around the jet told you that this was not an uncommon event. In fact, the knowing looks that were being shared by the rest of the team said quite the opposite.

Spencer blinked, trying to come up with more information.

“Also he definitely has children.”

“Obviously.” You blinked, looking around.

“I said that out loud, didn’t I?”

Luckily, the look on Spencer’s face wasn’t disgust like you expected. He looked... Proud? Happy?

Wait a minute. You were so caught up in information about the case that you didn’t stop to wonder how you came to that conclusion. Was that normal for you? Were you also a super genius? Perhaps. It was highly plausible, now that you were thinking about it. You were obviously young like Spencer was. Why else would you be on the team at that age? Huh. You liked being smart. It was cool.

“We’ll need to split up upon arrival-” Hotch interrupted your thoughts, “Prentiss you’ll be with Morgan, you’ll share a room at the hotel as well. And Y/L/N, you and Reid will be staying in the other room.”

Oh.

You stole a quick glance at Spencer. The over-confidence you had both been showing had disappeared in an instant.

“You got it, boss.” You tightened your lips.

Why would you say that?

[mxtantrights]

Bounded by shadow and blood (4)

Azriel x magic!fem!reader

You knocked on the door out of curiosity. Now that you know Azriel is here, you don’t want to barge into any room he’s in accidentally. It’s bed enough that he’s here to find out more about you.

“Come in.” Thesan’s voice calls from the other side.

You open the door and as luck would have it Azriel is inside with the high lord. He is standing with his hands behind his back, his eyes never leaving you as you enter the room.

“Are we starting this mission today?” You ask right off the bat.

Thesan claps his hands together and looks to Azriel, “I’ll let the shadow singer explain what today is.”

You look at him then, waiting for his words. 

“Before we do this I need to know you can hold your own. So we’ll have to go head to head to see where your strengths are.” He explains. You watch him for a moment, not saying anything and then turn to Thesan. 

“He can’t be serious.” You speak.

“I am.” Azriel says.

But you don’t spare him a glance. You keep your eyes on Thesan the whole time.

“Are you allowing this? Really?” You ask Thesan.

Thesan shrugs his shoulders, “I think this is a good thing. You can see where each other’s strengths and weaknesses are and be able to work together better.” 

He smiles. He hasn’t told Azriel what you are, no doubt. And if he is encouraging this fight then he wants to see how far Azriel is willing to go to find out. You wanna know too.

You take another look at Azriel and even though his face is holding no emotion you can just tell he likes this. The way his chest his puffed out and his chin is held high. You now can’t wait to bring him down a peg.

“Fine. We fight at dawn.” You state.

And with that you are leaving the room. None of the men say anything to you, probably a bit nervous at your reaction. Thesan knows you’re not one to just give up and give in. And Azriel got what he wanted so there’s no need for him to say anything more.

-

Dawn is in ten minutes. You have been in the training room, sitting crossed legged on the training mats. Your fighting skill couldn’t be described. The fae you fought really didn’t understand how their brute force was no match for your instinct. You didn’t need muscles or techniques. 

All you needed was blood.

In a match it’s easy to draw blood from your opponent. A bite, a punch, to a kick. The blood doesn’t have to be outside of your opponent’s body to use it. You just enjoy it that way.

“He’s waiting.” Thesan’s voice fills the room. 

You get up from your spot on the floor and turn to face the high lord.

“It’s now dawn yet.”

“Correct, but the anticipation is gnawing at me. Can we go?” Thesan asks.

You laugh and nod along. In the room earlier, Thesan maintained perfect composure as high lord. But just now, as he asks you to get a move on with this fight you know that’s your friend. 

You two walk in tandem to the sparing room. It was nonsensical that there would be another room for sparing rather than doing it in the training room, but you guess that’s what the High Fae like. Having extra rooms for things, showcasing their wealth.

Thesan announces you into the room as if it were an actually fighting match. You can’t help the snicker that comes out of your mouth. You see Azriel in the middle of the room, on the soft pads.

His hands are wrapped. But he still has his siphons on. Thesan had told you about them. How they dim his powers, and how he needed seven of them. You liked the challenge.

“I’ve never fought a bat before.” You say as you step onto the pads.

He doesn’t say a word. It pushes you even more to win this sparing match. 

Thesan counts the both of you down. You circle the shadow singer when he gets to five, taking in his stance and how his wings seem to be as still as cement. 

When Thesan says go you don’t charge for him. Instead you keep circling him. Azriel watches you like a hawk, but he doesn’t move either. 

“I though you two were fighting?” Thesan asks.

You crack a smile. Then you try swiping at his feet. He moves before you make contact. His hands up guarding his face. You kept your hands at your sides. Any blood spilt would be in your favor.

Azriel lunges and tackles you to the ground. You wrap your legs around his middle and flip him over with your strength. His wings made certain moves impossible but you would have to overcome it.

He grabs both of your hands and rolls you on your back. You let out a grunt as he pins your legs down. He’s looking down at you now a clear smirk on his face. You can’t let it stand.

“I saw your little show by my door last night.” You grunt.

You head bump his chin. He stutters for a moment, but it’s enough. You take charge and pull your arms out of his reach and put him in a head lock. Then it happens. You smell it before you see it. The familiar smell of iron. 

He twists out of your hold and pins your left arm behind your back, your stomach pressing against the mat. 

“I win.” He says.

“I don’t think so shadow singer.” Thesan says.

You smile. The droplet of blood that he had spilled from his mouth, now a shard the size of a toothpick aiming straight for his heart. He looks down at the magic. You wished you could see his face. 

He lets you go. You turn on your back and look up at him, a bit out of breath. He looks shocked to say the least.

“How did you do that?” He asks.

With your mind you let the blood fall onto the mat. 

“Maybe if you won I would tell you, but I think I’ll let you figure it out on your own.” You quip.

You get off the mat and dust yourself off. You’re just about to turn and leave when you see his hand go out. You stop. His hand it still out. You look at him and then at his hand again. 

“You’re a good fighter.” He says.

You weren’t expecting that. 

You take his hand in yours and shake it, “You’re not that bad either.”

we're getting there, trust me. but before we have good times we gotta get through some angst, trust issues and some reworking of how the inner court works. see you in the next part!

[munsonsduchess]

Wardrobe Malfunction

summary: you’ve worn the wrong clothes to school today, but Eddie is there to rescue you w/c: 695 warnings: swearing, use of pet names (sweetheart) a/n: I just needed this to exit my brain honestly. I saw this post and then @kokoshka67 said something about it and yeah

You were panicking. You hadn’t expected to have to be in the lab today, the teacher had told the entire class it would be further down the line and yet when you’d walked into class this morning Mrs Campbell had announced you’d all be working ahead of schedule.

Which is why you were currently in the faculty bathroom trying to reach your mom who wasn’t answering her cell. You just needed someone to bring you a pair of pants so you could actually participate in class and not just fail outright because today of all days you chose to wear a skirt.

“Fuck fuck fuck” you paced the bathroom and chewed on the nail of your thumb, “what am I gonna do?”

“Not to eavesdrop or anything but I might have a solution” a boys voice called from one of the stalls. You hadn’t even known anyone else was in the bathroom, Mrs Campbell had given you special permission to use the bathroom to try and call your mom.

As the door opened and Eddie Munson walked out you stopped chewing on your thumbnail for a moment to answer him,

“What do you mean?”

“Well. The way I see it you need pants, I happen to be wearing a pair today”

“I don’t get it. Are you telling me you’re gonna give me your pants?”

“That’s exactly what I’m saying. Well more of a trade really”

“A trade?” you quirked an eyebrow at the strange look on Eddie’s face,

“Sure sweetheart. I’ll let you wear my pants for lab and you can give me your skirt for English and we’ll swap back after. If you want”

You could only imagine the look on your face to be some sort of comical shock by the way Eddie laughed,

“Why would you help me? You don’t even know me!”

“Call it my good deed for the month” Eddie laughed, “so what do you say? Wanna trade?”

“You’re crazy Munson” you laughed, Eddie already reaching for the zipper on his jeans, “alright, let’s trade”

«────── « ⋅ʚ♡ɞ⋅ » ──────»

What you hadn’t expected after your impromptu bathroom swap was Eddie Munson confidently strutting down the hallways of Hawkins High in your skirt drawing all the attention away from your ill fitting jeans.

If anyone was curious about where you’d squired the new bottom half of your clothing they didn’t say anything. Or rather Mrs Campbell didn’t give them time to.

After class it did occur to you that you didn’t know where Eddie’s English class was so you could swap back, you were grateful for the jeans but you did want your skirt back since it actually fit you properly.

You asked around and found Eddie outside the school on an old bench behind the football field,

“You know I think I might have to get a few of these” Eddie said instead of hello, “I feel so mobile” he demonstrated his new found mobility with an imitation of a cheerleading high kick which made you laugh loudly when he lost his balance and fell onto the grass below,

“Might be a little advanced for you” you said in between laughing, “maybe you should give me the skirt back”

“What if I wanna trade something again?” Eddie said with a smirk, “what then?”

“What else do you want to trade?” you asked, “notes in class?”

“How about a date?”

“A date?”

“Yeah. You can pick what you wanna trade it for”

You couldn’t help but laugh again. Eddie seemed so earnest,

“Alright, I'll trade for a date. How about my number?”

“Seems like a fair trade to me sweetheart”

“I still want my skirt back” you told him as you input your number into his phone,

“I don’t know. Seeing you in my clothes is really doing it for me” Eddie whispered in your ear making the hair on the back of your neck stand up, “but I’m a gentleman, gotta get that date first” he said stepping away and holding up his hands

“Dork” you laughed again. You hadn’t anticipated this is how your day would turn out but you were happier than ever you’d chosen to wear a skirt that morning.

Taglist: @pillow-titties @munsonology @thegirlblogstuff @boomhauer @prettyboyeddiemunson @hellfireeddie6 @that-lame-ghoul9000 @flashyourgreeneyesatme @anxiousstark @ruinedbythehobbit @winnifredburkleismyhero @manda-panda-monium @insertcoolnameherethanks @aftermidnightwriting @mcbeanzontoast @tiannamortis

[gonzo-rella]

Imagine: Your Dad, Jay Pritchett, Finally Accepting You, His Nonbinary Child

MASTERLIST | AO3 | KO-FI

Based on/a follow-up to:  Being the Nonbinary (Second) Youngest Pritchett Sibling

Relationship(s): Jay Pritchett x nonbinary!reader (familial)

Warnings: Past/referenced lack of acceptance/ trans/enbyphobia. Also, reader is implied to be alloromantic or otherwise interested in romantic relationships. (Let me know if I need to add any)

(A/N: This is definitely me projecting, as someone who knows that my dad will not even try to accept/understand my own identity.)

You were at yet another of one of your family’s gatherings, this time to celebrate one of Mitch’s especially successful cases. It was nice, since you’d recently broken up with the person you’d been seeing because it was obvious that they couldn’t accept your identity.

Of course, the night wasn’t without the typical drama, secrecy and misunderstanding, one amongst the kids (who were obviously trying to conceal something), one between Phil and Claire (who’d had some disagreement that they were making vague passive-aggressive comments about to one another), and something between Jay, Gloria, Mitch and Cam.

Strangely, you hadn’t fit yourself specifically into any of these dramas this time around, since Mitch had requested for you to entertain Lily for a while, so you ended up sitting on the couch beside your niece, watching a kids’ cartoon that you shouldn’t have found yourself so invested in. There were occasional interruptions from Cam and Gloria, who were promptly dragged away by Mitchell- rather suspiciously- before they could say anything of note to you. Though, you were too engrossed in whatever TV show you were watching to care.

That was until your dad approached you.

“Uh, hey, kiddo, mind if we talk in the kitchen?” Jay said as casually as he could, but you knew your dad well-enough to know that something was amiss.

“Sure,” you replied with a shrug. You turned to your youngest niece. “Bring me up to speed when I come back, okay, Lily?”

It was clear that she hadn’t been watching the TV, and that she was playing Subway Surfers on your phone. Still, she heard you, and rolled her eyes.

You followed your dad to his kitchen, where Gloria, Mitch and Cam had clearly been anticipating your arrival.

“Oh God, what is this?” you questioned.

“We’ll give you two some privacy,” Mitchell said, scratching his neck.

When Cam and Gloria made no sign of leaving, Mitchell and Jay eyed them sternly in a way that came naturally to Pritchetts, and the duo followed him with a sigh. You furrowed your brows, then focused your attention on your dad for a moment. Stiffly, you folded your arms and shifted on your feet.

“So...” you said, drawing out the ‘o’ and averting your gaze. “What did you wanna talk about? I take it it’s not, like, the weather or something.”

“Uh, no, I... I just wanted to see how you were holding up, after this whole breakup thing,” Jay responded, an awkward sincerity in his voice.

You bit your lip and nodded slowly.

“I guess I’m doing okay, thanks,” you shrugged, forcing a faint smile.

“You know, I know our part of the family’s not all that good with the whole ‘feelings’ thing,” Jay sighed. "But you can talk to me, or Mitchell, or Cam, or anyone, and we’ll all listen. We all care about you, kid.”

“Did Mitch tell you why we broke up?”

“Yeah,” Jay nodded. “Said they couldn’t accept you for... who you are, so you didn’t have any other choice.”

You huffed.

“That’s how it went,” you confirmed. You paused for a moment, then bit your lip once again. The both of you knew you were holding back tears. “It just sucks, y’know? Feeling like someone cares about you in spite of who you really are, and you can tell that they’re just placating you, and they don’t actually see you for who you are, and that they’d prefer you if you were... normal.”

As your dad watched you speak, watched as you became closer to breaking down right in front of him, he couldn’t deny the sinking feeling in his chest.

He sighed.

“Look, kid, I’ve been talkin’ with your brother... and it’s made me realise that I’m doing the same thing as your ex, and the thought of you cutting me outta your life like them scares the hell outta me,” Jay explained. “So, I want you to know... I fully support who you are and anything you do because of that. All I want for you is to be happy.”

A trembling smile tugged at your lips, and it was difficult to hold back the tears any longer. You nodded.

“Thanks, dad.”

He returned your nod.

After a moment of hesitation, you stepped forward and hugged your dad awkwardly. You only intended for it to be brief- no more than a few seconds- but, much to your surprise, he returned your embrace. It was tight and filled with genuine warmth, unlike any time you’d hugged him before. It was almost enough to melt away the vague tension of the past years, and for the first time in a long time, you felt a complete sense of relief. Similarly, with the terrifying prospect of losing you now unlikely, Jay was grateful to have you, his kid, in his arms.

[gumnut-logic]

Along the Way (Part 4)

Sweetapple | Dear Mr Tracy | Along the way - Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

I've been re-reading Alexander Sweetapple while feeling crappy over the last few days and am ever so grateful for all the support this series has received from everyone. Apologies for all the delays on this fic. And extra special thanks to both @womble1 and @idontknowreallywhy for adding their glorious talents to this universe as well.

I managed to dig up the next part and write a chunk of it tonight, so here we have more of this fic. It's getting there, I promise.

Many thanks to the wonderful @onereyofstarlight for feilding my call for a read through yet again. You are wonderful, m'dear.

I hope you enjoy it. I also hope to write some more asap.

-o-o-o-

He had managed to help the young woman get free of the pile of what felt like wood pinning her legs. They had little light, but with her permission, Alex investigated the source of the pain in…”I’m sorry, what is your name?”

Her voice was shaky. “Elizabeth.”

He sent her a smile but then realised she probably couldn’t see it. “Nice to meet you, Elizabeth.”

Her nervous laugh lightened the dark atmosphere just a little.

“I’m Alex.”

“Nice to meet you, too.” Her voice trailed off into a whisper and then a whimper as his fingers found the injury to her leg.

Damp and sticky.

Damn.

It was impossible to tell exactly how much damage had been done, but as far as he could tell she had a gash in her leg.

She was crying again.

“It’s okay, we’ll get this bound up and then start looking for a way out of here.”

He wrenched at his shirt, attempting to get the fabric to tear. A brief curse at the simplicity of movie medical situations and what was actually possible; and a fingernail split enough threads to tear a hole. Another few yanks and he decimated whatever the hell he was wearing, but managed to get a strip of fabric long enough to bind Elizabeth’s leg. It didn’t seem to be bleeding too badly.

Next problem.

There were still other people nearby, he could hear various whimpers and a man yelled for help. What Alex needed to do was determine where the hell ‘here’ was and find an exit.

God, he wished Virgil was here.

A blink.

Alex swallowed. Okay, they really needed to get out of here.

But again, he was drawn back to the problem of exactly where ‘here’ was.

His head was pounding and working far slower than he was used to. It was frustrating.

“Are you okay?”

“Huh?” The shape that was Elizabeth was turned towards him. “Yeah, I’m fine. Bit of a headache. Just thinking about how to get out of here.”

She drew in a shaky breath. “Yeah.”

He was in Gisborne.

The thought came to him suddenly and glaringly.

Gisborne. Why was he in Gisborne?

The throb in his head made thinking so hard. An image of Erica shooing him out of his lab.

He blinked dust out of his eyes. Erica was always shooing him out of his lab. She smotherhenned him within an inch of his life sometimes.

And he loved her for it.

His world was so different from what it had been before. He was so lucky. He was able to create what needed creating. He had the support of some of the most powerful people in the world.

Unassuming powerful people who offered him coffee and a smile.

So lucky.

“Alex? Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Huh?”

The darkness had him wanting to close his eyes.

But he couldn’t.

Because it was a symptom of a head injury.

Holographic Scott Tracy said so.

“Yeah, I’m good.” A deep breath, laden with dust and moisture. Water was still dripping somewhere. “We’re in Gisborne.”

“Yes, we are. In the Tairiwhiti Museum.” Elizabeth’s voice was steadier. “In the cafe.”

In the cafe?

Mum.

“I was here with my mother!” He desperately tried to draw information from his foggy memory. “She…” Where was she? His heart hurt to think of her lying somewhere in this darkness. He raised his voice. “Doctor Sweetapple?!” A struggled breath. “Mum?!”

Several voices answered, crying out for help.

None were his mother.

He swallowed. Walk it through.

He needed to find his mum.

He needed to help these people.

And they needed to get out of here.

As if reading his intentions, the floor he and Elizabeth were sitting on groaned, and something in the distance snapped like a gunshot.

And the whole building moved.

Alex yelled as the floor tipped, sliding downhill with a screaming screech. He grabbed Elizabeth and the nearest fixture in the dark and clung to both in the roar of snapping crumbling wood and brick.

Until it all slammed to a stop, wood raining down on them both.

The silence that followed was marred by the sound of rushing water.

The building was now on an angle, dust falling past them.

Elizabeth was crying in his arms while he desperately attempted to catch his breath and calm his racing heart.

At least he now had a direction. Up was likely out.

And they needed to get out now.

-o-o-o-

“Alex is here…in Gisborne?” The words drifted from Virgil’s throat as he stared at small holographic Scott standing on his wrist.

“Yes, he went there for lunch with his mother.”

Virgil looked at the devastated landscape around him. Alex was somewhere in this?

He straightened his shoulders. “Do we have any idea of his location?”

John appeared beside Scott. “His credit card was last used at the Farmer’s Market. Street camera footage has him and his mother walking across the Peel Street bridge half an hour before the quake hit.”

The fact that neither of those systems were able to be accessed by ‘unauthorised’ personnel was completely ignored.

The fact the Peel Street bridge was now in the river it was supposed to span was far from encouraging either.

Virgil was currently standing on the remains of one of the taller buildings in the city, so he could see across the devastation towards the river and the remains of the markets where Alex might be.

He swallowed his instinctive reaction down, his need to be there immediately, the need to find his…friend.

He swallowed again, pushing his heart into his boots and straightened. His brother’s news had come just as they pulled the last out of the building beneath his feet. “Thunderbird Five, where are we needed next?”

His holographic brothers didn’t respond immediately, John’s hands darting across controls Virgil could not see. Scott’s expression was one Virgil did not want to parse.

Not now.

But John understood. “Local services are requesting liquefaction assistance along the Portside riverbank. Thunderbird Two is needed along with some rescuee extraction.”

“FAB.” Virgil turned, his exosuit wheezing with every movement.

“Thunderbird One will attend Gisborne shortly. I just need to finish up here. ETA fifteen minutes.” The Commander’s voice hid everything.

Virgil nodded, thankful for holographic technology, his throat suddenly tight.

“We will find him, Virgil.”

Another nod.

“FAB.”

-o-o-o-

Next

[thegettingbyp2]

So happy you are writing for Aaron Tveit again, though I love all of your writing!

Can we have a jealous!Aaron Tveit where reader is also an actor and her new project is with her ex as her love interest and Aaron likes to remind her who she “belongs to”

A Good Look on You

A/N: I used Austin as the ex in this simply because I was watching Elvis while I was writing but I actually ended up really liking having it as Aaron and Austin!

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Your boyfriend wasn’t a jealous person, he had no reason to be. However, there were a few times where he felt like he was being pushed a little bit too close to the edge; and this moment was one of them. Aaron was always incredibly supportive of you, encouraging to always go for the roles you want even when you were adamant that you weren’t going to get the part. And that’s exactly what had happened with your new project, only it had backfired on him this time.

The new project you were working on was a cheesy rom-com (the kind that you loved to curl up on the sofa and make Aaron watch with you), the thing Aaron was bothered by however, was the fact that you were starring opposite your ex, Austin Butler. When you found out that was who you were going to be working with, you and Aaron sat down and you asked him if he was okay with you doing the film and, not being one to tell you what to do and knowing how much you’ve wanted to do one of these films, Aaron told you he didn’t mind. And he really didn’t.

Until he went to visit you on set.

On the day you were filming a sex scene.

And now he was sitting, watching as Austin pressed his lips to your neck, pinning you against the wall as your fingers tangled in his hair, keeping him pressed against you. Aaron couldn’t help but feel jealousy work its way through his body; he was the only one that could draw those whimpers from your lips and there was something about knowing that you’d been with Austin, knowing that Austin most probably knew your body as well as he did, that made him want to prove to you that you’d made the right choice by breaking up with Austin and falling in love with him.

He felt relief wash over him when he heard the director yell cut, a feeling that was very short lived when he saw you and Austin hanging back on set, talking to each other, still very close to each other. His breaking point was when he watched Austin’s thumb brush against your neck, making you laugh lightly and Aaron jumped out of his seat, wandering towards you.

‘Hey,’ Aaron said, wrapping his arm around your waist and dropping a kiss to the top of your head before looking straight at Austin.

‘Hey!’ you exclaimed, tucking yourself comfortably into his side. ‘You okay?’ you asked when you realised that he was keeping his eyes trained on Austin.

‘I’m fine,’ he replied, tightening his hold on you slightly, causing an amused smile to form on your lips. ‘Is that you done for the day?’

‘Well, we don’t know if the director’s going to want another take of that scene,’ Austin piped in, a smirk on his lips as he looked at you and you felt your cheeks flush bright red.

‘I don’t think he will, it was a good scene,’ Aaron replied calmly, shocking you. ‘I guess (Y/N)’s just really good at pretending when’s she’s not with the right person.’

You had to stifle your laugh by burying your face into Aaron’s chest as Austin’s face fell slightly before he regained his composure. ‘Yeah, well, we’ll see about that,’ he said to Aaron before turning to you. ‘Let me know about that drink,’ he said to you before walking off towards his trailer.

Aaron kept his eyes trained on Austin’s back as he walked away before turning to look at you. ‘We need to get to your trailer now,’ he said lowly, his eyes darkening as he looked at you. You nodded quickly and led him off the set to where your trailer was and the second the door was closed, Aaron had you pressed up against it. ‘Does he think he’s still got a chance with you or something?’ he asked, knowing he wouldn’t get a coherent answer from you with the way his lips were marking up your neck. You shook your head with a whimper as you wrapped your arms around his neck, using your grip and the force of his body against yours to keep you upright. ‘Because he doesn’t, does he? You’re mine, aren’t you, pretty girl?”

When you didn’t answer, Aaron’s hand came up to fist in your hair, tugging your head back, causing a whimper to escape your lips at the loss of contact. ‘Answer me.’

‘No!’ you replied quickly, ‘I just want you, no one else!’

Satisfied with your answer, Aaron picked you up and led you over to the bed in the corner of the trailer, throwing you down on the mattress. Due to the scene you’d just filmed, you were only wearing a dressing gown and underwear that matched your skin tone. Crawling over you, Aaron let his forehead rest against your chest as he took you in. ‘I can’t believe he saw you like this,’ he mumbled and your fingers wound in his hair tugging his head up to look at you.

‘Are you jealous?’

‘No, I just don’t like other people seeing what’s mine,’ he replied, quickly ridding you of the underwear and throwing them across the trailer. The second you were bare in front of him, his lips came down to wrap around one of your nipples, your back arching at the feeling instantly. Aaron took the opportunity to slide his hand beneath your back, keeping your back arched and your chest pressed against him as he suckled at you. His free hand slipped down you rub gentle circles against your clit, groaning against you when he felt how wet you were and he released your nipple with a pop, kissing his way down your body until he settled in between your legs.

The moment his tongue touched your clit, all thoughts vanished from your head, the only thing you were focusing on was your boyfriend between your legs, eating you as though you were his last meal. When his lips wrapped around your clit, you felt your legs begin to shake and you knew that you weren’t going to last long. Sensing this, the moment you were right on the edge of your orgasm, Aaron pulled away completely, causing you to cry out.

‘The only way you’re cumming right now is on my cock, pretty girl,’ he said softly as he kicked his trousers off and hovering over you once again. His thumb came down to trace circles on your clit again, working you back up until you were moaning and whining loudly. ‘Now, tell me,’ he said, lowering his head until his lips were right by your ear, ‘who’s in the trailer next to us right now?’

‘Austin!’ you cried out loudly in reply. Aaron felt another wave of jealousy rush through him when he realised that that wasn’t the first time you’d moaned Austin’s name like that.

‘That’s right, baby,’ he whispered in your ear, ‘now what do you say we show him who you actually belong to, yeah?’ He didn’t give you a chance to reply before pushing his cock into you with one, swift movement, drawing a loud moan from you. ‘That’s my girl,’ he said, smiling down at you wickedly as he began to thrust into you at a rough pace.

You wouldn’t have been able to quieten your moans even if you’d tried with the way Aaron’s cock was brushing against your g-spot with every thrust. Every now and then, he’d push into fully and grind against that spot for a few seconds before resuming his pace, hurtling you closer and closer to your orgasm every time.

‘Aaron, please,’ you begged, ‘I’m gon - ’

‘You’re alright, baby, I’ve got you,’ he said wrapping his arms around me and flipping the two of you around until he was laying on his back with you on top of him. He didn’t let up with his grip around you, preventing you from moving on top of him. Instead he planted his feet on the mattress and thrust up into you, each thrust shoving the air from your lungs. ‘Let go,’ he whispered, pressing a gentle kiss to the base of your throat in time with a hard, deep thrust. Your vision clouded as your orgasm took over your body and your nails dug into his waist, the sound of his hiss echoing in your ears.

Just as you were coming down from your orgasm, you registered the sound of Aaron’s praises in your ear, telling you how good you were for him as he thrust into you a few more times before stilling as you were filled with his cum.

‘Can we just sleep here tonight?’ you asked, curling up on his chest once your breaths began to even out.

‘I’m pretty sure our bed at home is a lot more comfortable than this one,’ he replied, chuckling, the sound making you smile sleepily.

‘You were jealous,’ you teased, the smile still planted on your lips as your eyes fluttered closed.

‘Maybe I was a little bit jealous,’ he admitted, ‘I’m sorry.’

‘Don’t be. If this is how you being jealous ends, it’s a good look on you.’

[emblemxeno]

Localization Changes: Takumi #ProtectThePineapple

Paging @theeeveetamer / @teaveetamer 

I love Takumi! Easily Top 5 favorite Fates characters, probably number 2 after Xander if we’re being honest. The complex machinations of his self esteem issues, imposter syndrome, desire to be loved by his family, among many other aspects, is what makes him very endearing and loveable to me.

His antagonizing actions and harsh words made him divisive, especially when Fates first released, but to me that only made him that much stronger of a character. Raw anger and bitter resentment paints a wonderfully contrasting color to his heartfelt and even downright cute moments.

However, I feel like there are instances in Fates’ localization that kind of cheapen Takumi a bit. Moments where he lashes out are made into quippy one liners and can make him seem bratty and immature first instead of genuinely upset. His xenophobia gets amped up to a point where, while present in the JP script, it now became a trait that’s associated with him the most due to localization changes. Most of all, there’s even some instances where his agency and character growth within the story are, I feel, completely erased or blurred to the point of being unrecognizeable.

I wanted to detail stuff about Takumi that was changed, so this is what I could find. I get these things from this JP supports Pastebin , a Fates translated playthrough (all routes are on the channel linked) and Pegasusknight.com (the latter of which I do my best to interpret from translation tools, which is very subject to me being wrong lol). Keep in mind I also took a few liberties in writing down the lines from the JP version. I trust that the translators got the message across well enough, but the English major in me couldn’t help but clean up some things here and there to help the translations come across less stiff.

The rest will be under the cut! Any instance of me referring to Corrin, I’ll be using he/him, and I’ll be using the JP version of the character names when applicable and appropriate. Also, if you want, give a watch to the Fates Drama CDs! The first two volumes deal with Takumi’s thoughts, feelings, and character in regards to Corrin’s return to Hoshido during chapters 4, 5, and 6! While I won’t be citing them here, they give extra insight to his character and are very cool!

Prologue

JP Version

Hinoka: What!? The river dried up...!? Did they use the power of the Dragon Vein...?

Takumi: ...It looks that way. The enemy is drawing near...

[...]

Takumi: Pull yourself together, Kamui. The enemy... The Nohrian royal family-they’re strong. If we don’t stick together, we’ll... ...No. Right now, we have to work together. You let me know if you have any ideas.

[...]

Hinoka: Good, you’ve defeated the enemy! Kamui, Takumi, great work! This is the power of the bond between siblings.

Sakura: A-amazing, Big Brother...

Takumi: It went well thanks to someone’s well-planned instructions. If we join our powers together, we may actually win this war...

Hinoka: Well then, let’s hurry back to Ryoma!

Treehouse

Hinoka: The Nohrian army used a Dragon Vein to dry up the river! But I thought only royals held that power...

Takumi: Yeah, which means there must be some real big shots over there. Suit me just fine. I've always wanted to use a Nohrian royal for target practice!

[...]

Takumi: Hang in there, Corrin. The Nohrian royals are not pushovers... We'll have to work together to beat them. As the eldest, I guess you're in charge. Tell me what to do and I'll do it.

[...]

Hinoka: Corrin, Takumi, good work fighting off that ambush.

Sakura: You were amazing, Corrin.

Takumi: That went well. Probably because SOMEONE gave you good advice. ...And you're welcome, by the way.

Hinoka: No time to talk! Let's see how Ryoma's doing.

I’m glad that memes surrounding how characters sound in Marvel movies and Disney channel shows exist, because now I have something to describe how Treehouse makes Fates’ cast sound: right out of a sitcom. The whole “he’s right behind me, isn’t he”, tryhard ironic vibe is everywhere in the localized script, and it can suck the tension out of certain scenes. Takumi’s “I’ve always wanted to use a Nohrian royal for target practice” line is an example of this. I think it’s funny, tbh, but it evokes a different feel of his character, especially since this is the first thing the player sees of him. What I find more egregious though, is that Treehouse replaced his more sincere words of worry and doubt with cockiness across the board. While this can be charming in its own right, again, it changes the first impression. It gives you the idea that he’s genuinely overconfident, rather than finding out later that he’s compensating hard. 

I didn’t include some context, but in the ‘well SOMEONE gave you good instructions’ line, the JP version of the archer tutorial just has him tell you how he fights rather than it being him telling you exactly what to do. Small changes, but it causes a ripple effect that extends to the line being changed, because what was intended in the original was him complimenting Hinoka (or maybe Corrin?) on her planning and how working as a team of siblings will get them through the war, but Treehouse changed it to him saying that it was him that saved the day.

Chapter 5, in the plaza.

JP version

Kamui: It’s just like you and Sakura said, the Hoshidans are all good people. Everyone seems to enjoy themselves here.

Aqua: I’m glad you like it. I love it here, too.

Takumi: Aqua. And Kamui…I mean, Brother. Mother wants me to start calling you that, now.

Kamui: ...

Takumi: Don’t get carried away, though. I don’t trust either of you.

Aqua: Takumi…

Takumi: Don’t speak my name so casually. You’re a Princess of Nohr, the kingdom that killed Father. There’s no way I can trust you. Kamui, you’re the same. You’ve been a Nohrian Prince for so long, after all...

Kamui: No…You’re contradicting yourself, Takumi.

Takumi: What?

Kamui: Aqua has been in Hoshido for as long as I’ve been in Nohr. By that logic she should already be one of your comrades, right?

Takumi: ...Hmph. Either way, I don’t trust you two. I just wanted to let you both know that.

Sakura: Big Brother, if it suits your taste... These dango are very good. Here!

Treehouse

Corrin: Everyone really is friendly here. And it’s so…bright…and open. It’s quite a contrast from the fortress I grew up in.

Azura: I’m glad you like it. Like I said, I’ve always been happy here.

Takumi: Just don’t get too comfortable…BROTHER.

Corrin: Pardon me?

Takumi: I don’t trust you. Shouldn’t you be heading back to Nohr soon?

Azura: Takumi…

Takumi: Hey, who said you could call me by name? You haven’t earned that privilege either.

Corrin: That doesn’t even make sense.

Takumi: Excuse me?

Corrin: Azura has been in Hoshido for as long as I’ve been gone. Shouldn’t that be enough to consider her part of the family?

Takumi: I don’t care. I don’t trust either of you. I just wanted to tell you that to your face.

Sakura: I apologize for Takumi’s rudeness. He’s a bit of a hothead. Anyway, how’d you like to try a sweet rice dumpling? It’s a Hoshidan specialty!

He’s giving his feelings towards the situation of Azura and Corrin both being Nohrian, but the way it’s written between versions conveys differences. Now from what I know of the logistics of the Japanese language, lots of context can be missed or hidden. The JP version can probably be seen as him being just as rude as he is in the Treehouse script, but from what’s here he does come off more... immature? Plus some context as to why he doesn’t trust Azura or Corrin gets cut, and Sakura calling him a hothead gets added in.

I considered putting the after battle conversation from Chapter 5, too, but there’s not enough significant difference between the JP and Treehouse’s version of Takumi’s lashing out to really warrant it. Though one difference is that when Corrin gets the Yato, Treehouse has him just say “Impossible.” whereas the JP version has him say nothing. The drama CDs do go more in depth into what he’s thinking, and given how Takumi’s written later in the game, it makes sense why he would stay silent rather than continue talking shit. But again, I don’t wanna cite the CDs too much, cuz I don’t know how much they can be considered canon even though I think the same writers (sans Kibayashi I’m guessing) wrote them. 

Chapter 6 Birthright (After the Nohrian siblings react to Corrin’s choice)

JP version

Takumi: I will do it... For my fallen kinsmen, and for Mother’s sake as well...

Treehouse

Takumi: Stupid Nohrian jerks! I'll kill all of you!

Once again, a more thoughtful reaction was changed into a more juvenile anger. Not completely surprising coming from Takumi, but makes him a bit more one dimensional, imo.

Chapter 10 Birthright (Takumi shows up possessed)

JP Version

Hinoka: Ugh!? Why did you do that, Takumi!?

Kamui: Takumi, stop! You could’ve shot Hinoka...!

Takumi: Kill...

Kamui: Huh...?

Takumi: Me... everyone should only... appreciate me...

Hinoka: It’s as if he’s a completely different person...!

Sakura: B-brother... What’s happened to you!?

Takumi: I’m strong... I... have a divine weapon... But even then... all everyone talks about is my siblings... all everyone talks about is Kamui...

Kamui: What are you saying!? Takumi, please come back to us!

Takumi: There’s no need for people who don’t look at me... there’s no need for people who stand in my way... why don’t you all just... DISAPPEAR!!

Kamui: Takumi!?

Treehouse

Hinoka: Gah! What's wrong with you? That arrow almost hit me!

Corrin: Takumi, what are you doing?!

Takumi: Kill...

Corrin: Um...

Takumi: I should have been the chosen one...

Hinoka: This is creepy...

Sakura: *sob* Takumi... What h-happened to you?

Takumi: I am ignored...alone...forgotten. But I am more powerful than they can imagine!

Corrin: What are you saying? Snap out of it, Takumi!

Takumi: Ughhhh... I will not stand in the shadows any longer... They will all see me for the first time! I will make them pay for what they've done. I will make them...I will make them... DIE!

Corrin: Takumi?!

The JP version of this exchange centers around Takumi’s own inheritance of a divine weapon as well as his inferiority complex in regards to not only Corrin, but his other siblings as well. This is important, because it was never only Corrin coming back that caused Takumi to feel left out and ignored, but also Ryoma’s natural talents making Takumi feel inferior and Hinoka’s unintentional aloofness towards her siblings as a result of purely focusing on her training (these are things that are touched on in his supports with both of them btw). Sakura is exempt from this sentiment though.

Chapter 10 (Azura cures Takumi’s possession)

JP version

Takumi: ......

Aqua: Takumi... your eyes, and that gaze... Maybe, just maybe... If my hunch is correct, my song can do something about this. I can only hope it’ll be enough...

Takumi: No one...no one... looks at me... No one at all...

Aqua: Wait, Takumi.

Takumi: You are...

Aqua: Listen. You're being controlled by an unseen force. How awful... This isn’t you. Which is why... Please listen to my song...  (Sings Lost in Thoughts)

Takumi: Ugh...! Gaaaaaaaah!!

Aqua: ......

Takumi: Ungh... ! Aqua...?

Aqua: Thank goodness. You’ve come back to us.

Takumi: Come back...? What do you mean? W-where are we...?

Aqua: I’m sorry, but we don’t have time to discuss that right now. The people of Fuuma have ambushed us. Can we count on your assistance?

Takumi: Oh... okay. I understand.

Aqua: ...Hey, Takumi. 

Takumi: What is it?

Aqua: I can always count on you. You are very strong and intelligent. You have a charm that your other siblings don’t have. That’s what I think.

Takumi: H-huh!? What does-

Aqua: Hmhm, well let’s be off. Standing idle won’t do us any good.

Takumi: Hey, wait up! ...Hey, Aqua! ...... (smiling portrait) ...Well it can’t be helped. All right, time to show them what Prince Takumi can do!

Treehouse

Takumi: Unnnhhh...

Azura: Look at the color of his eyes... Could it be? There's only one way to find out. I'll have to sing to him...

Takumi: No one...notices me. No one...cares. Die. Die. Die. Die. Die. Die.

Azura: Takumi...listen to me.

Takumi: You... You are...

Azura: It doesn't matter. I'm someone who can help. You're being controlled by a dark force. This is not who you are! You don't have to give in. You can survive this! Listen carefully... (Sings Lost in Thoughts)

Takumi: Ugh... Gyaaaaah!

Azura: Takumi, can you hear me now?

Takumi: Ohhhh... Azura? Is that you?

Azura: Yes, it's me! Oh, thank goodness.

Takumi: Uh...where am I?

Azura: Unfortunately, we're right in the middle of a battle. I don't really have time to explain. Are you in any condition to defend yourself?

Takumi: I...I think so. I feel OK.

Azura: Very well. Just remember.. You're strong and intelligent. There's a certain something about you. I believe in you, Takumi.

Takumi: Um, OK...

Azura: That's the Takumi I remember. Now, come on! You'll need to focus to make it through this battle.

Takumi: Wait! Azura! Ugh, I'm still a bit woozy. So many questions... (angry/cocky portrait) I guess I'll just have to stay alive to get them answered.

I touched on this in my general Birthright script changes post, but I thought I’d bring up the overall tone shift here. Takumi’s genuine happiness in the JP version was replaced with an awkward reaction and a cocky response in the Treehouse version, hence why I also noted the portrait change. Not out of character per se, but I think Takumi having his first real establishing moment of joy being replaced does a disservice to both his character and the player getting to see it.

Chapter 10 (after battle)

JP version

Sakura: Takumi!!! You... you’re back to normal...!

Hinoka: (voice clip of her crying) Moron...! We were... so worried about you...!

Takumi: H-hey, quit crying. Aren’t you both too old to be doing that?

Sakura: I don't care about that! You’ve come back to us, so I’m fine with crying!!!

Hinoka: Me too! I love you too much to care about things like that now!

Takumi: Sakura, Hinoka... Thank you. I’m sorry that I worried you this much.

Kamui: I’m curious to know what’s been going on. What happened at the border battle, Takumi?

Takumi: That battle... it was a struggle. We fought by Izumo’s border at first... But before long the battle extended all the way to the Infinite Chasm. During the march there, I got separated from Ryoma.

Kamui: I see, so you don’t know where he is either...

Takumi: During the battle, the enemy’s attack triggered a massive rockslide. I got caught up in it... and fell into the Infinite Chasm.

Kamui: The Infinite Chasm!?

Hinoka: But... you’re alive. How did you manage to come back?

Takumi: That I still don’t know... Everything after that is a blur... I can’t remember anything before I woke up here.

Hinoka: I see... Well, at any rate, I’m relieved that you’re back alive. It’s a miracle you were able to survive that bottomless pit.

Takumi: Hey... what have I been doing all this time?

Aqua: It's best not to worry about it, Takumi. Some horrible magic took hold of you and brought you here against your will. That’s all it is.

Takumi: No... that can’t be it. Hinoka’s arm has been grazed by an arrow. It looks like it was cause by the Fujin Yumi... I attacked her, didn’t I?

Hinoka: Well, that’s... 

Takumi: Tell me... what did I do in front of all of you?

Kamui: ...... ...Takumi. When you met us here, you immediately started attacking us. Until your sanity came back, you were fighting Hoshidan troops.

Takumi: !! That’s...! Attacking my own countrymen... Unforgiveable. I don’t think I’m qualified to be a part of Hoshido’s army after doing that...

Kamui: No, being qualified doesn’t matter. I was in a similar situation, being raised as a prince of the enemy country... but even so, you all accepted me without hesitation.

Takumi: No... I wasn’t like that... 

Kamui: Er, well, be that as it may... What matters now is you’re here with us. If you feel you’ve made a mistake, you can make up for it from now on. I’d really like to fight alongside you, Takumi. Do you feel likewise?

Takumi: ...... I will, if you can forgive me for the harsh words from earlier.

Kamui: Of course. Those are things of the past. 

Takumi: ...Thank you, brother. And thank you too... Sister.

Aqua: ...No, it’s quite all right. ......

Kamui: ...Aqua, are you okay? You look kind of pale...

Aqua: ...I’m fine, just a little tired. Don’t worry, I’ll get better soon. 

Kamui: Um, okay...

Treehouse

Sakura: Brother! I'm so glad you're back to normal. We were all so w-worried about you.

Hinoka: (voice clip of her saying “I won’t allow it!”) Yeah. Don't ever do that again, OK?

Takumi: Whoa, guys! Stop crying. You're making me all embarrassed.

Sakura: I don't care. We didn't know if we'd ever see you again. And then when you showed up all weird like that...

Hinoka: Yeah. We didn't know if you'd ever be the same Takumi we know and love again.

Takumi: Well, it's definitely me guys. Thank you for your concern. And I'm sorry I made you all worried.

Corrin: It's good to have you back, Takumi. But as much as I would like to savor this moment. Ryoma is still missing. Can you tell us anything about what happened to you two?

Takumi: Yeah. It was insane. We ran into Nohrian troops just outside Izumo and began fighting. Ryoma and I were separated in the early stages of combat, before we had to retreat. We were outnumbered...and pushed to the brink of the Bottomless Canyon.

Corrin: So we still have no idea where he is...

Takumi: No, I'm afraid not. Something triggered a massive landslide, and I was caught up in it. That's how I fell into the canyon.

Corrin: You actually fell into the Bottomless Canyon? How are you still alive?

Hinoka: I've never heard of anyone returning from there before.

Takumi: I...I have no idea. All I remember is falling. There was a period of darkness, and then I woke up here.

Hinoka: Well, I'm just glad to have you back. It's a miracle you survived a fall like that!

Takumi: So, um, can anyone tell me how I ended up here? Or what, exactly, I was doing before I woke up just no?

Azura: It's best you don't worry about it for now. Just get some rest.

Takumi: No, I need to know. My Fujin Yumi was in my hand when I came to. And some of you have wounds in your backs...

Hinoka: Well...

Takumi: Tell me! What did I do?

Corrin: Takumi...you must have been under some sort of spell. You stumbled out of the woods and started attacking our party. Please, try not to worry about it. We know it wasn't really you.

Takumi: Oh, what have I done? A prince attacking his own men? How can I show my face in Hoshido again?

Corrin: Please! Someone... or something...was controlling you. We know you were not in your right mind.

Takumi: That's small comfort right now, I'm afraid.

Corrin: Well, I'm sorry you feel that way, but all that matters now is that we're all here. Will you join us in the search for Ryoma? Perhaps something along the way will jog your memory. Can we count on you?

Takumi: Yes. If you can forgive me for all the hurtful things I’ve said and done.

Corrin: Of course. We must move forward—not dwell on the past.

Takumi: Thank you, Corrin. I also need to thank you...Sister.

Azura: Oh! You called me— I mean...you're quite welcome, Takumi. Ahem... *cough* *cough*

Corrin: Is everything OK, Azura? You don't look well.

Azura: I'm fine. I think I'm just a bit tired. Please, don't worry about me. I'll be better in no time.

Corrin: If you say so.

Hinoka was made kind of... less concerned over Takumi in the localization. Or at the very least, less worried like how an older sibling would be, where her crying is replaced with more of a reprimand. 

In the JP version, Takumi specifically mentioned attacking Hinoka and her having an arrow wound to signify it, the localization changed it to a general “some of you have wounds in your backs.” 

The instance of Corrin comparing his own situation to what just happened with Takumi was cut and replaced by talking about the possession (even thought it’s been talked about already), meaning a nice moment of character bonding and calling back to previous scenes was cut. 

And lastly, there’s another instance of Treehouse Corrin in Birthright acting like an douchebag that I actually missed in my general Birthright post. In the JP version, when Takumi says he wasn’t as accepting of Corrin at first, Corrin tries to just shift the conversation to something Takumi can be more positive about. Treehouse replaced it with Corrin basically saying “well, I’m sorry that you feel that way, but can you help us now” which is such an asshole thing to say to someone who’s just now realizing he hurt his sister and has lost his memory up until this point.

Chapter 11 (before battle)

JP Version

Kamui: ...Phew. We made it to a ship just before it set sail. I never thought there’d be Nohrian soldiers at the port. We haven’t been attacked since Fuuma (Mokushu), so my guard was down.

Sakura: Yes. But somehow we managed it. Big Brother... you should probably rest a little bit, at least.

Aqua: I don’t understand... how did those soldiers track us down in the first place? No one should know that our party is crossing into Nohr.

Takumi: Don’t tell me... there’s a spy in our mix, isn’t there?

Aqua: Spy?

Takumi: Yeah. Haven’t you considered it? There could be a spy among us working for the Nohrians, reporting our movements. That mage... he’s especially suspicious.

Zola: H-huuuuh!? I am!?

Hinoka: ...Well, you are suspicious. Very much so.

Takumi: Big Brother Kamui said... before joining you guys, he tried trapping all of you. I wouldn’t be surprised if he tried something again.

Zola: W-what!?

Hinoka: ...Right, then. As promised, I’ll strike to kill.

Zola: Eeeek!

Kamui: ...No. Please stop, everyone. It’s not good to doubt your comrades.

Hinoka: Kamui...

Kamui: All right? There’s no proof that he’s a spy. Once we decide to believe someone, let’s keep believing them.

Takumi: Brother... Even so, I can’t trust this man.

Kamui: Yes... Well, it’s not something I can explain right now, Takumi. I’m sorry. Let’s talk about it later. For now, I’d like for you to trust in him a bit.

Takumi: ...... ...Very well. If you’re insisting that much, I’ll make an effort to believe him, too. 

Zola: Lord Takumi...!

Takumi: What is it now? I never said I’d trust you right away. I’ll start considering it after hearing what my brother has to say. And stop saying my name so casually.

Zola: Gah! No, sir. I'm sorry, sir.

Treehouse

Corrin: Well, this should be interesting. I've never sailed before. And we made it just in time to catch the last boat leaving the harbor. How lucky!

Sakura: I know. It's been such a long march—I'm really looking forward to r-resting a bit.

Azura: I wouldn't get too comfortable. Remember, we are on our way to Nohr. Some of the passengers on this ship could be our enemies.

Takumi: Yes, and there could be a spy among us.

Azura: What are you talking about, Takumi?

Takumi: You know exactly what I'm talking about. That whiny little mage from Nohr! Whose idea was it to let him tag along?

Zola: Gah! I'm no threat, guys! I promise! Haven't I been helpful so far?

Hinoka: Don't worry, Takumi. I've been keeping a very close eye on him.

Takumi: I don't know. Didn't he set everyone up back in Izumo? I wouldn't be surprised if he were plotting something.

Zola: But...but...

Hinoka: OK, I'll get my knife ready...

Zola: Eeeek!

Corrin: Calm down, everyone. I trust Zola, and I believe you should as well. He stood with us through one battle without stabbing anyone in the back. Besides, how could he even really information to Nohr? It's a preposterous notion.

Takumi: Sorry. I can't just take your word for it. I don't trust him.

Corrin: That's fine. A little healthy skepticism won't hurt. Just try to be civil, OK?

Takumi: I'll do my best.

Zola: Lord Takumi...

Takumi: What's wrong with you? Did I say that you could speak my name?

Zola: Gah! No, sir. I'm sorry, sir.

Never caught this before. In the JP version the party apparently got ambushed by Nohrian troops at the port, and that’s why the topic of there being spies is brought up, since Azura wonders how the soldiers even knew of the party’s whereabouts. Treehouse cut out this information.

Takumi in general is more abrasive, which is consistent to how Treehouse has been so far. I’d also like to note that Corrin’s insistence on believing in people is diluted a bit in Treehouse’s version, where he says civil skepticism is fine instead of trying to get Takumi to trust in people more. While this can make Corrin seem more palatable and smart, this doesn’t line up with his established character. He’s supposed to have a backbone when it comes to trusting in people and peaceful, diplomatic solutions. It’s why he almost got killed by Xander for not wanting to kill prisoners of war. If Corrin actually believed in “healthy skepticism” he wouldn’t let Zola in the party, especially after almost hurting Sakura. 

Also, Takumi’s supposed to be softening up to Corrin as a brother at this point and be more willing to listen to him, and Treehouse’s version of the exchange-while not bad in the logisitic sense-does a poor job in showing a family bond growing between them. A family bond which, if you recall, was mentioned in the JP version all the way back in the prologue. So... points for being consistent in cutting out themes, I guess.

Chapter 11 (after battle)

JP Version

Kamui: All right, we took care of them.

Takumi: No problem. Even invisible, there’s no way they could beat us.

Kamui: Haha, you’re very reliable, Takumi.

Takumi: (Smiling portrait) Well, yeah. I have to make up for my mistakes. A certain someone told me as much, anyway.

Kamui: (Smiling portrait) Takumi...

Treehouse

Corrin: That's the last of them.

Takumi: Ha! Those stupid things didn't know who they were messing with.

Corrin: Well, I'm glad to see that you're feeling like yourself again. Takumi.

Takumi: Me too. (Frowning portrait) After all, I have a long way to go to redeem myself...

Corrin: (Neutral portrait) Takumi, that's simply not true.

Corrin in the JP version: Takumi and I are starting to get along and he’s happy, that makes me happy too :)

Corrin according to Treehouse: Takumi, you’re really fuckin up the vibe :/

Jokes aside, it really does baffle me what Treehouse’s obession is with a) making Corrin kind of a dick and b) not letting Takumi smile/be happy more often, like wtf. I know that Corrin saying Takumi doesn’t have to redeem himself could be taken positively, but since a specific tone has already been set by Treehouse, it unfortunately comes off as patronizing instead.

Chapter 11 (after Zola protects Takumi)

JP version

Kamui: Are you okay, Zola? Thank you for helping Takumi earlier.

Zola: No need for thanks... That was something I wanted to do. When I saw Lord Takumi in danger, my body moved on its own.

Kamui: Even so... thank you.

Takumi: Hey... Zola.

Zola: ! L-lord Takumi! Ah, forgive me. I said your name again...

Takumi: No, it’s fine. You can call me whatever you like. I’m sorry for doubting you earlier, Zola.

Zola: What...?

Takumi: Yeah. You just saved my life at the risk of your own. If you hadn’t done that, that guy could’ve killed me. So I’m sorry I didn’t have faith in you.

Zola: That’s...! Please raise your head, Lord Takumi! There’s no need to thank me for this. I merely did what Lord Kamui did for me back in Izumo, when Lord Leo was about to execute me.

Takumi: What!? Kamui, you did something that reckless?

Kamui: Ah... haha... well, something like that... 

Zola: Yes. Since then, I’ve changed. Thanks to Lord Kamui.

Takumi: ...I see. Well, with a story like that, I have no choice but to believe it. I’ll be counting on you as a friend from now on, Zola.

Zola: Likewise... thank you very much.

Kamui: (Smiling portrait) ......

Treehouse

Corrin: That was extremely courageous, Zola. Are you all right?

Zola: It was nothing. I'm just glad that Lady Sakura was able to heal me.

Corrin: I beg to differ. It was not nothing. It was a remarkably selfless act.

Takumi: Zola...I have something to say to you.

Zola: Yes, Lord Tak—I mean yes, milord?

Takumi: Please. You've more than earned the right to speak my name. I'm sorry for doubting you.

Zola: Really? You mean that?

Takumi: Yes. Talk is cheap, and I still think I was smart not to trust you at first. But you may have just saved my life. It was a heroic act.

Zola: Thank you, Lord Takumi! I'm just following Lord Corrin's lead. If it weren't for him, I may have died at the hands of Lord Leo in Izumo. Now maybe you'll have the chance to perform a similar gesture.

Takumi: Wait, Corrin jumped in front of an attack meant for you? Right after you tried to kill him?

Corrin: Ha! No, Takumi. It wasn't exactly like that. I merely asked Leo to spare Zola's life. He was helpless and defeated.

Zola: Yes. And that kindness was enough to sway Lord Leo. He merely exiled me instead of taking my life.

Takumi: I see. Well, I just hope we can put all of this behind us.

Zola: Of course, milord!

Corrin: (Neutral portrait) Yes. It's time to focus on what's next. Who knows what's waiting for us in Nohr...

Takumi in the JP version is more willing to admit a mistake without a kind of “but I was still right” line, Treehouse adds one in anyway.

Also Treehouse made Corrin into a buzzkill, in other news, the sky is blue.

In further chapters, it’s mostly the same routine. Takumi is more abrasive and certain tender family moments involving him are diluted. I mentioned back in my general Birthright post that Takumi in his sickness, bed ridden delirium in chapter 16 talks in bigger detail about the “truth behind this war” and while this doesn’t have much to do with Takumi in particular, I thought I’d bring it up again.

Chapter 24 (pre battle, Takumi talks to Iago about possession)

JP version

Takumi: How dare you manipulate and mock me? What you said earlier about my feeling inferior is true... but I've learned something in this fight. There’s things only I can do! That's why... I would never betray my beloved siblings or my precious friends! As a proud prince of Hoshido!

Treehouse

Takumi: I just woke up for good. That's what happened. You were able to exploit some of my deepest fears and flaws, but that's over. My brothers and sisters need me, and I won't let them down. I'm a proud prince of Hoshido, and from now on I will live up to the title!

Both are fine, but the JP version is a bit more self actualizing, whereas the Treehouse version is more dependent on Takumi feeling like his siblings need him.

Chapter 24 (Takumi vs. Iago boss conversation)

JP version

Takumi: I’ll never forgive you...How dare you...how dare you take advantage of me. Macbeth...

Macbeth: You just regained your senses, and already such cheek...! You should’ve stayed as a good little pawn right until the end.

Takumi: When I was freed from your control, I remembered everything... How I’d send an owl with information of my whereabouts every night. How I’d lose all memory of it every morning. How I suspected my allies without knowing I was the traitor all along... What an absolute disgrace...

Macbeth: Then repent for your sins and quickly die. Isn’t that better than living a life of shame?

Takmui: Shut up! I'll live to pay for this crime! First, I’ll start making up for what I’ve done by defeating you here, Macbeth!

Treehouse

Takumi: Yes! I was hoping I'd get a chance to kill you myself. This is for everything you've put me through!

Iago: *yawn* You know I chose you because you were the weakest, right? You should never have come out of that spell—now you're going to suffer!

Takumi: Wrong! Now that my head is clear, my aim is truer than ever. I'm going to turn your face into my own personal bull's-eye.

Also touched on this in the Birthright post. The fact that Treehouse cut out the entire explanation for how exactly Takumi relayed information to Iago is freaking weird. Like... why?

Overall, though that’s about it for major changes to Takumi in Birthright’s story. Now for Conquest.

Chapter 10 (pre battle conversation) 

JP version

Hinata: Lord Takumi, it seems the Nohrian army is stationed at the port.

Takumi:  …An ambush, is it? Well, I expected no less of them. We won’t run away with our tails between our legs. It’s what they want.

Treehouse

Hinata: Lord Takumi! It seems the Nohrians aren't going to back down.

Takumi: So they plan to fight us, do they? I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. Nohrians aren't like normal, decent people. They live for the thrill of battle. All the better. I shall delight in putting those cowards in their place.

While I’ve said before that Conquest’s localization changes aren’t as egregious as Birthright’s (at least when not concerning Xander), I do find it funny that Takumi is consistent for the most part, aside from taking little jabs like he does in Treehouse’s version. Here’s another example: 

Chapter 10 (Corrin vs. Takumi)

JP version

Takumi: ! Kamui...

Kamui: Takumi... 

Takumi: Never expected to see you here, Prince Traitor. For the person who left Hoshido in such a wreck, you’re sure doing well for yourself.

Kamui: I’m sorry... I’m afraid I have nothing to say to that.

Takumi: Hm... guess you’re still man enough to feel guilt, after all. Then you can start regretting your mistake as I kill you right here!

Treehouse

Takumi: Any last words, Corrin?

Corrin: Takumi... In your heart you must know this is the last thing I ever wanted.

Takumi: Ah, how quaint. More pretty words from the Prince of Betrayal. How can you stand to live after the horrors you caused in Hoshido? My suspicions must be accurate. Nohrians don't have souls.

Corrin: Words could never express my sorrow for what took place...

Takumi: Oh? Are you still human enough to feel remorse? Fascinating. It's a fitting last emotion. I hope you feel its sting as I strike you down!

Takumi being a little shit towards his enemies is always hilarious, that’s one thing that Treehouse did that I think is fun. Another one I like is in chapter 13, where when Camilla calls Scarlet a traitor, Takumi responds with “Nohrian logic never ceases to amuse me.” And again in chapter 23 where, while not funny but more dramatic, he tells Corrin he “...shall cherish the sound of life leaving your body for all eternity.” Lines like these weren’t in the JP version, but since they are harmless additions and not replacing anything, they’re all fine. It only becomes an issue to me when said moments start replacing genuine tender scenes or cutting out details, like in Birthright.

Endgame (Corrin talks to Takumi in purgatory)

JP version

Takumi: Thank you. It would have been if we had fought alongside each other. Kamui. The truth is... I always wanted us to get along as siblings. I wanted to call you ‘brother.’ I wish I could have said that when I was still me... but I'm so stubborn that I just couldn't be honest with you. ...... I'm sorry.

Kamui: I’m sorry, too... Your resentment is my doing. ...I have always wanted you to call me ‘brother’, as well. Once the war was over, we could have been close as siblings should be. And yet...I am so sorry that things turned out this way.

Takumi: No, it’s all right. You accepted my resentment and came all this way. That's enough. Thank you, brother...

Treehouse

Takumi: Thank you, Corrin. I wonder…what it would have been like to fight on the same side as you. I always wished we could have been close, as you are with your Nohrian siblings. Right up until my last moments, I wanted so badly to call you my brother. To look up to you and love you…and never allow anything to come between us. I wish I had told you that before I died. While there was still a chance… I was just so stubborn, so hurt. I couldn’t admit those feelings even to myself. For that, I am truly sorry. I’m so sorry for letting you slip away, dear brother.

Corrin: Takumi…I’m sorry too. I caused you so much pain. The truth is, I longed to have you accept me as your brother too. I never let go of the dream that after the war we could all be together again… I’m so sorry things turned out the way they did.

Takumi: It’s all right, Corrin. We finally got to say all the things we needed to say. You have done more than enough. My heart… It’s finally at peace. Thank you, Brother…

I mentioned in my Conquest post that, while the Treehouse version is perfectly fine, it could potentially be read as putting more of the onus of Takumi and Corrin’s falling out on Takumi rather than Corrin. The JP version makes it more clear where each party is responsible.

Anyway, since Conquest’s localization has a fraction of the issues that Birthright’s has and Takumi showed up less frequently since he was an enemy, time to move on to Revelation... or at least, I would, but like Conquest, Revelation doesn’t have nearly as many localization issues as Birthright. Plus, Takumi has to share the spotlight with 7 other siblings and Azura, soooo... not many lines to screw up, anyhow.

So instead, time for supports and other general dialogue!

Corrin Support

In the JP version, when Corrin notes that it’s harder to draw a bowstrong than he imagined, Takumi notes that it takes a lot of physical and mental strength to do so. Localization just has him say “Well of course, did you think it’d be easy?” Similar message, but fewer details. Corrin then notes that because of that, he realized once again how talented Takumi is. In the JP version, Takumi gets flustered and nervous, in the localized version, he asks if Corrin is being sarcastic. Again, same message, but comes across a bit differently.

Other than those things and few lines being rearranged, the support chain is pretty faithful for the most part.

Felicia Support

In the JP version at the end of the A support, Felicia says that, while satisfied with Takumi’s apology for being rude, she still wants to share stories of her hometown, so he should be prepared. In response, Takumi laughs and says something like “Is that so?”. Treehouse changed this to have Takumi say outright “No more Ice Tribe stories anymore.” The reason why this was changed is most likely to fit in with how the S support is framed, where Takumi says he was frustrated with Felicia only talking about her hometown all the time instead of about herself. The JP version kept it intentionally ambiguous because there’s no guarantee that Takumi and Felicia will S support one another, so meh. Not a huge mistake, but thought I’d mention it. Other than that, the support was done well.

Azura Support

Again, not many major differences. Just in the JP version of the A support, Takumi says “from now on, let’s get along like brother and sister” whereas Treehouse has him say “we’ll both make more of an effort.” Less familial, so it can be seen as lacking a bit.

Sakura Support

JP version of the C support has Takumi mention that prominent aristocrats of Hoshido will attend the party/banquet attending, so that’s why he and Sakura can’t skip it. Treehouse cut out this small detail. Also, in the JP version Takumi says the atmosphere of these kinds of parties are stuffy, whereas Treehouse has him say “I wish we could leave all this highfalutin stuff to someone else”, which honestly got a chuckle out of me. Love words like that.

Treehouse version of the B support adds the line where he suggests lighting the guests hair on fire and running for cover, alongside the pre-existing line of faking being sick. Again, pretty funny to me tbh. Takumi saying crazy shit is a-ok to me, so long as it’s not at the expense of other lines being removed or moments being ruined.

Hinata Support

C support in the Treehouse version has Takumi pull rank by saying “Is that any way to address your superiors? “Show yourself”? Seriously!?” JP version just has him say “If you need anything, just tell me.” The idea of Takumi pulling rank isn’t exactly surprising per se, but he’s more the type to lash out at unfamiliar people speaking too casually with him. Hinata is a close friend and retainer, so it’s a bit out of place.

Oboro Support

In the Treehouse B support, Takumi says the fabrics that Oboro chose get the “Takumi seal of approval.” Not a negative addition at all, it’s cute.

Kagero Support

In the Treehouse C support, Takumi says “It seems like stealth comes naturally to you. After all, just a moment ago you popped up and scared me so bad I peed a little.” The peeing line wasn’t in the JP version. They made my son a pissbaby.

Kana Child Support

I felt obligated to mention how Takumi says “Well mold my onions, aren't you clever?” in response to how Kana has been helping Corrin out during the little father-son contest. Not in the JP support, obviously. But y’know. Onions, lol.

Camilla Support

Bit of a change here.

JP version

Takumi: I may seem unreliable as I am now, but if it's for you...I will definitely become even stronger, no matter what it takes!

Camilla: ......

Takumi: That's why...please marry me!

Camilla: Prince Takumi...You were...very dashing just now. I...didn't know you could be so bold.

Takumi: Princess Camilla...

Camilla: I...happily accept your proposal. Please let me watch over your growth by your side, okay?

Takumi: Yes. Of course.

Treehouse

Takumi: I know you still see me as cute, or childish, or as a fun plaything. But I have more to offer than that! Give me the chance to prove it to you!

Camilla: Hmmmmmmm... That was shockingly mature, for you. I've never known you to be so solemn and direct.

Takumi: Princess Camilla, I...

Camilla: I accept your proposal. Perhaps I flatter myself, but I suspect it's my care which has helped you along. In which case, staying by your side for years to come will only improve you further.

Takumi: N-not exactly the response I was hoping for...but I'll take it. Here's to our life together!

Like Camilla says herself in the Treehouse version, she flatters herself more. She also says him being mature is a shock, which is kinda mean, and that feeling only gets cemented when Takumi says it wasn’t exactly the response he was hoping for. JP version more or less has Camilla be more genuinely surprised at how bold he is.

Leo Support

More significant differences. First is a part of the C rank.

JP version

Leon: I'm telling you in advance that we probably won't be getting along well.

Takumi: Hm, What a coincidence. To tell you the truth, I thought so too.

Leon: What...?

Takumi: That haughty attitude, and that condescending way you look at other people... I knew you were a disgusting sort of person from the beginning.

Leon: ………… …Okay then, your childish way of thinking makes me want to vomit. I won't ever approach you, so you also must never approach me.

Treehouse

Leo: We might as well get this out of the way. You and I are not going to be friends.

Takumi: What a coincidence! I was just thinking the same thing.

Leo: Of course you were. You have such an arrogant attitude and—

Takumi: Me?! I'm not the one going around patronizing everybody! You're the jerk!

Leo: Is that the best you can do? You sound like a whiny, little brat. Just as expected. Let's make a deal. You stay away from me, and I'll stay away from you. Think you can manage?

Consistent with certain other instances of Treehouse, the same message is getting across, but the tone is a bit different. Both are definitely hostile, but the Treehouse one could come across more... immature, I guess. I personally don’t take issue with it, but I thought it was relevant to bring up. Now on to a part of B rank:

JP version

Leon: Prince Takumi... What's your favorite food?

Takumi: I like miso soup...

Leon: Miso soup?

Takumi: Ah, you mix miso and dried bonito in hot water, season it, and add other ingredients such as vegetables or tofu to boil and then eat.

Leon: Wha...?

Takumi: Hm, what's wrong?

Leon: I... like food such as soup and stew. To put it simply… Food where you mix meat and vegetables in boiling water which you then season …In other words, it's something like miso soup.

Takumi: Wh-what?

Leon: W-well then, what's your favorite kind of book to read? Novels or essays, or poetry anthologies? What's your favorite genre?

Takumi: Books, huh… I read all kinds, though I mainly like philosophy books. Philosophers from the past who expresses a different way of thinking compared to the people who are living now. That's what's interesting to me...

Leon: H-how is this possible!? How can this be the same too!?

Takumi: Then, what about your favorite pastime... What's your hobby!?

Leon: I-I like chess. Chess is a strategic game where you use pieces to battle on on a board.

Takumi: Th-that's... In Hoshido, that's something called Shogi!

Leon: ...And do you like this Shogi game, Prince Takumi?

Takumi: Like is an understatement, I'm the best in our family. How... how do we have so much in common?

Leon:  …………

Takumi:  ………… Hey, Prince Leon. Maybe getting to know one another isn’t such a bad idea after all.

Leon: What a coincidence… I was thinking the same. Do you want to continue talking about each other's tastes?

Takumi: Y-yeah. Who knows, we might find out about other things we have in common.

Leon: In the unlikely event we do hit it off, I’m sure we’ll get along well, h-hahaha...

Takumi: Hahaha...

Treehouse

Leo: They say that people with similar personalities like the same things.

Takumi: I like miso soup.

Leo: Mee-so soup?

Takumi: Yeah. It's a Hoshidan dish. You got a problem with that?

Leo: No. My favorite food is beef stew. It's kind of like a soup. Hmm...

Takumi: What kind of books do you read?

Leo: I read all kinds of things, but I have a passion for history.

Takumi: Is it...because you love to study the strategy behind past battles?

Leo: Gods, don't tell me... Do you like to read history books too?

Takumi: Yes, but I'm sure our hobbies are different.

Leo: My favorite game is chess. It's a tactical board game where—

Takumi: In Hoshido, our version is called shogi.

Leo: And do you like to play this "show-gee" thing?

Takumi: I'm the best shogi player in my whole family.

Leo: I can't believe it. Who would have guessed we have so much in common?

Takumi: I don't know, but I'll tell you—it's hard to hate someone with such excellent taste!

Leo: No kidding. I was about to say the exact same thing. Hmm... Maybe we should do this again sometime.

Takumi: Ahaha! Oh? So now you want to be best friends?

Leo: Ha! Of course not. That will never happen.

Takumi: Never!

Once again, similar message gets across, but lines are rearranged. However, this time, some details are cut, such as discussion of how both Takumi and Leo take their miso soup and stew respectively. One significant change is how originally Takumi and Leo loved philosophy books, but Treehouse changed this to battle strategy and history. Don’t know why this was changed, I thought it was neat. Also near the end, while both versions of the support have a kind of “in-denial” aspect about becoming friends, it can come across a bit differently. Though this is just linguistics in general, tbh. Japanese itself is a more... indirect language when it comes to speaking. There’s also Leo saying “mee-so” and “show-gee”, which some can probably think is cringe, but meh. It fuels my “Hoshido and Nohr speak different language” headcanon, so I’m fine with it.

Anyway, in the JP A support there’s another description by Leo of the miso soup recipe and him detailing a bit why he enjoyed it, but other than that, that’s it for their support. And for supports as a whole, too. 

Private Quarters 

When inviting:

JP version

"Brother, what did you want?"

"Brother, what should we talk about?"

"Brother, I’m here. What’s going on?" 

"What’s wrong? ...Am I in the way of something?" (When Married to someone else)

Treehouse

"What is it? Did you want to tell me little secrets or something?"

"What's with all the racket in here? Are you playing the drums or something?"

"What do you want? There's no point in sparring. You couldn't keep up!"

"Huh! If this is how it is, I'll get my slippers. We can all cuddle." (When Married to someone else)

The JP version of these lines are a bit generic, so I appreciate the changes Treehouse made here.

Last, but not least, while there are other changes to his lovers lines in Private Quarters, his S rank line in particular I wanna bring mention too.

In Treehouse’s version, it’s this: 

“I would do anything for you. Would you do anything for me? I need to know...”

In the JP version, however, it’s this: 

“I love you. If there were another world in which I raised a hand against you… at that time kill me to stop me. Promise me that you will definitely do that.”

Big difference. Treehouse did this a lot with certain private quarters lines and confessions, where references to story happenings get outright replaced. Off the top of my head, Xander’s S rank private quarters in the JP version talks about how he’d be fine with dying if Corrin was the one doing it, referencing his death in Birthright. Elise, Ryoma, Flora, and as seen here, Takumi, have similar cases. It’s a shame that these were replaced, because I find it pretty neat that tragedy involved with these characters gets invoked in personal settings.

Anyway, I couldn’t find any more significant differences! I looked at DLC lines, My Castle lines, and the like to make sure, but all of it was pretty faithful to the original script. Overall, yeah, there are pretty significant changes here, with Birthright being the main offender as per usual. Some of them are baffling, some are effectively harmless, but regardless thought to do this because Takumi remains one of my favorite characters in Fates and Fire Emblem as a whole.

I hope you all enjoyed reading it!

[celestiall0tus]

Amaranthine - Chapter 15 - I See You

Beginning || Previous || Next

            Luka swung by Juleka and Rose’s apartment around midnight. He turned the corner to the kitchen and paused when he saw Juleka.

            “Shouldn’t you be in bed?” Luka asked.

            “And pass up on the chance to interrogate you? It’s like you don’t know me at all.”

            Luka sighed and sat at the table. Juleka placed a plate of snacks down along with a pair of mugs with coffee.

            “So, how was your first day of work?”

            “It was… interesting.”

            Juleka smirked and wiggled her shoulders. “Oh? Do share, Brother.”

            Luka let out a breath. “Marinette is Nimue, isn’t she?”

            Juleka paused mid bite as she stared at Luka with wide eyes. “How’d you figure it out?”

            “Oh, you know, small things at first. The odd comfort I take in her presence, the constant draw throughout the day, and, well, she told me her soulmate dreams.”

            “Yeah, that would do it, wouldn’t it? What are you going to do?”

            “Good question. Let me ask another. Xiulan is Longg, isn’t she?”

            “Yes,” Sass answered.

            Juleka and Luka turned as Sass materialized and sat beside Juleka.

            “I feared as much. She seems to approve of me well enough, but she certainly won’t when she learns who I really am,” Luka pointed out.

            “Well, why not just tell Marinette when the dragon is out of the lair?” Juleka suggested.

            “He may be waiting for a while. Longg is damn near glued to Marinette. Always lurking somewhere nearby,” Sass remarked.

            Luka grimaced. “You were around there today?”

            “Of course. I was in the Unseen. Longg slipped into it often to keep an eye on the two of you, until she was needed elsewhere.”

            Juleka hummed. “Well, you can either wait until Longg goes grocery shopping, or we can organize a distraction.”

            “What kind of distraction?” Luka asked.

            “Girls, I know you’re listening. Come out,” Juleka announced.

            A moment passed before Freya and Diana joined them.

            “We’re sorry, Mam. We just couldn’t sleep and-,” Diana started.

            “How would you two like to accompany me when I head to Auntie Marinette’s next week for my lessons?”

            Freya and Diana’s eyes lit up. “Yes!”

            “Will we be able to learn some witchcraft too, Mam?” Diana asked.

            “No way! We’ll need to keep Longg busy so Uncle Luka can confess to Auntie Marinette,” Freya corrected.

            Diana groaned. “Why?”

            “Because Longg will kill him otherwise should she hear the truth,” Sass remarked.

            “Why?” Diana asked.

            “Because Longg is a dragon, and dragons hold grudges. And the grudge she’s holding is from their previous lives,” Sass answered.

            “Oh! You mean when Auntie Marinette was burned at the stake?”

            “Correct. So, you two will be keeping Longg busy so Luka can tell Marinette everything, but not Longg, understand?” Juleka asked.

            Freya nodded while Diana frowned.

            “Why go through all this trouble? Why not just fuck and call it a day?” Diana asked.

            Luka choked as he took a sip of his coffee.

            Juleka snickered. “Because Uncle Luka is too much of a bitch to actually put a move on any woman or man. You should have seen when we were younger. Our friend Alix was-.”

            “They don’t need to hear that story, Jule,” Luka interrupted.

            “Why not? Wouldn’t it be amusing to hear how you ran away like a scared kitten when the moves were put on you?”

            Luka deadpanned while Sass snickered.

            “Mam, is Uncle Luka a lost cause?” Diana asked.

            “That depends if he can bag Marinette. If not, then he really is a lost cause,” Juleka teased.

            “It probably doesn’t help that he has to keep fighting her,” Freya muttered.

            “It’s not by choice, Freya. Longg’s fury is stronger than Marinette’s will, so Longg wins every time.”

            “Might help if you don’t pump so much sedatives into her. Maybe then you could actually talk to her,” Sass mumbled.

            Luka opened his mouth when the ground shook. He braced himself while Juleka protected Freya and Diana. The tremor passed and Luka ran out with Sass behind him. He transformed in the dimly lit hallway and made his way outside.

            Atropa scouted the area to discover a long, slender woman thin as a rail. Her skin was black as night with pink fiery hair that billowed about. She hurled fireballs into buildings that lit up with pink fire before everything crumbled to ash within seconds. Fear gripped him as he ran out and confronted the woman.

            The woman opened her mouth to speak, but Atropa snapped his fingers. She let out an unearthly scream as she crumbled to the ground. She hissed and cursed as he inflicted more injuries on her. He moved again to close the gap when the earth shook. He stumbled when a pillar of rock hit and launched him off the ground. He turned and caught eye of another woman with vines for hair.

            Atropa snapped his fingers again when he heard a cat’s yowl. He turned his head as Midnight and Carmine came barreling in. Carmine wrangled the ghouls together as Midnight slashed at their bodies, turning them to dust. He let out a breath as he landed on the ground.

            “You. Get somewhere not out in the open. I don’t care if you help, but don’t let the dragon see you,” Carmine ordered.

            “What for?”

            “There are more of these ghouls around the city. We’re doing our best to detain them, but more just take their place. We’ve been trying to locate a source, but haven’t,” Midnight explained.

    ��       “Exactly, and we can’t deal with you and your lover’s quarrel tonight. Not until-!”

            The earth shook violently beneath them. They looked around for the source as a pair of vine-haired ghouls rose from the cracks in the street. They readied for a fight when the vines on the ghouls shriveled and died. They exchanged glances when Nimue landed and crushed the ghouls’ bodies to ash. Everyone froze as Nimue’s armor fell away and her clothes torn to tatters.

            Carmine took a breath and stepped out in front of Atropa. “Wait, please. I beseech you, we need you help. You are a master of the elements and these creatures are using said elements against us. Could you aid us in tracking and stopping the source? Please. The casualties are unreal tonight and more grow the longer we let our enemy stand.”

            Guenevere huffed. She closed her eyes and hummed. She took a few steps forward before her eyes shot open. She grabbed the heroes and Atropa, then took off. They gasped and struggled to catch up when they landed atop a building. They looked down in the plaza below at large black creature on the ground.

            Atropa, Carmine, and Midnight recoiled at the sight of the monster. It was stuck on its back with a bloated stomach. It let out a ghastly scream as it spewed more ghouls from it. Midnight covered her mouth and turned away, Carmine took several deep breaths, while Atropa looked away. He chanced a glance at Guenevere and saw tears streaming down her face.

            “Alright, we need a plan. We need… we need something,” Carmine whispered.

            “Fuck that. I’m just going to blast the whole area. Get rid of them for good,” Midnight snarled.

            “Hold up! We can’t just run in, guns blazing. For an abomination like this, Adonis must have precautions set up. We need-!”

            “A lesson,” Guenevere snarled.

            “Wait, what? No. Hold on. Wait!” Carmine begged.

            Guenevere ignored Carmine and dove down. Atropa readied to follow Guenevere, but was held back by Carmine. He attempted to fight Carmine when she pointed below. He turned to watch as all the ghouls and the abomination pointed to Guenevere before they jumped her. He sucked in a breath when there was an explosion of fire. They shielded their eyes until the blaze darkened.

            Midnight snarled and jumped down with Guenevere. The pair burnt and blasted the ghouls to ashes until they had an opening. Guenevere grabbed Midnight and hurled her over to the abomination. Midnight blasted the creature to ash, destroying it and the butterfly. The rest of the ghouls crumbled away to dust on the wind.

            “Well, looks like Midnight’s plan was the go-to,” Atropa muttered.

            “No. Something isn’t right. Hey, Guenevere! Up here!” Carmine called.

            Guenevere and Midnight rejoined the others. She shot a glare at Atropa before she faced Carmine. “What?”

            “Those monsters, were they trying to kill or capture you.”

            A pause. “Capture.”

            Carmine’s breath caught. “Does this mean you know Adonis? Or perhaps Adonis knows you?”

            Guenevere opened her mouth when her eyes widened and clouded with fear. A loud whine escaped her as parts of her body shifted to Nimue’s golden armor.

            “Longg! Longg, the fairies! They’re his, aren’t they?” Nimue cried.

            “Relax, you’re safe with me. I won’t let him harm you. I-,” Guenevere attempted.

            “He knows everything. He knows what I am. Who you are. He’s going to make me suffer. I-!”

            “Enough! Dragonling, enough. We don’t know what’s happening. There are too many variables at play here. The only truth we know is Adonis is looking to capture the dragon. If he wanted you, he could come for you at any point, but hasn’t. You’re ok.”

            The dragon let out a choked sob. She looked back at Atropa and swore. Guenevere relinquished her hold and let Nimue take over. Tears rimmed Atropa’s eyes as he charged forward and scooped Nimue up, holding her close. She clung to him as she sobbed.

            “This isn’t good, Carm,” Midnight said.

            “Not in the slightest. Dragon, if Adonis is after you, let us help guard you, please,” Carmine insisted.

            Nimue slowly nodded. “Very well. I… I can’t do this alone.”

            Carmine and Midnight knelt and placed a hand on Nimue’s shoulders. Nimue lifted her head slightly as she glanced at the pair.

            “You’ve never been alone. We’ve all been here, helping one another. In one form or another. Granted you’ve done a lot of the heavy lifting, let us return the favor. Hopefully, in the coming weeks, we can finally put Adonis down,” Carmine reassured.

            “Yeah! Together, we can finally end this madness. We finally have our variables to make a difference and finally take over this ludicrous game he’s trapped us in,” Midnight cheered.

            “Though, I do ask something steep. I know there’s no guarantee we can keep you completely safe. Even we have our limits. So, should the moment arise, would you being willing to put everything on the line to bring him down? Carmine asked.

            Nimue nodded. “I won’t live my life in fear forever. I refuse.”

            “Good. Could you give us a clue on how to find you?” Carmine asked.

            “The paradise where Arthur was taken to have his mortal wounds healed. The place we waits still before he makes his grand return to rule over all once again,” Nimue whispered.

            Midnight’s face twisted in confusion while Carmine nodded.

            “We’ll find you. That I promise. Night, let’s go,” Carmine declared.

            “Shouldn’t we stay?” Midnight asked.

            “She has herself and the snake. She’ll be fine for the time. Let’s go.”

            Midnight huffed, but left with Carmine.

            Atropa sighed. He held onto Nimue as he hummed and rocked them back and forth. He closed his eyes as he started to sing what came to his mind, lost in the moment. He was startled from it when she shifted, moving to sit in his lap and rest her head on his shoulder.

            Atropa smiled softly. “Comfortable?”

            Nimue nodded.

            “How’re you holding up?”

            “Still startled. The notion was… well, to say it was a shock would be generous.”

            “Who did you think it was to send you into a panic like that?”

            A pause. “I… I don’t want to think about it. Please, anything else. I’d even rather talk about that monster spewing abomination.”

            “Eww, no. That thing was awful. Uh, Longg? Is she… ok with this? With us?”

            Another pause. “She… she needs time. She doesn’t like you still, just because you’re my soulmate. However, with Adonis, she’s torn. She’s currently trying to assess who’s the bigger threat to me.”

            “Well, maybe I could sway her with the news that Sass and I are attempting to break the cycle so you and I can be together.”

            Nimue jerked her head up. “How? What are you doing?”

            “Our first step is getting… someone important. Someone who should be able to pinpoint where the problem is and help us solve it. From there, well, I can only hope all goes well.”

            “Me too. I’m tired of this game. I just want it to be over. I just want you.”

            “Me too. Every moment I’m away is agony, damn near torture. I just want it to end. I just want you. But, I have you know, and I’m going to enjoy every second of it.”

            Nimue hugged Atropa tighter. “Me too.”

            “Hey, do you… have anywhere you need to be?”

            Nimue smirked. “Actually, I do remember I needed to be somewhere.”

            “O-oh? I’m sorry if I’m-.”

            Nimue scooped up Atropa and flew them to Bois de Boulogne. She landed near one of the lakeshores and set him down. She took a deep breath before she sat on the grass. He sat beside her, pulling her close to him.

            “I probably should have asked, but I just… I needed be surrounded by nature.”

            “Does it calm you down?”

            “It does. I enjoy listening to the heartbeat of the earth, the chatter of the creatures, and so much more. It’s all so… soothing.”

            “Is it? I’m a little jealous I can’t hear it. Think you can teach me?”

            “I don’t know if I can. Maybe Longg can once all this is over and we’re free to be with each other. No more endless cycles, no more dying young, just love and happiness at long last.”

            Atropa smiled. He pulled Nimue into an embrace. She wrapped her arms around his torso as she laid against him. He held her tight as he leaned back onto the earthy ground. She folded her wings and covered them like a blanket.

            “You’re comfortable? My armor isn’t hurting you?” Nimue asked.

            “I honestly don’t feel it.”

            Nimue smiled and sighed contently. She snuggled up against him. Her breathing evened out as she fell asleep in his arms. He stared up at the sky as he savored every moment before he fell asleep.

[crankpit]

ok highlights from heartstopper s2 because i need to rant

- literally all taoelle scenes ESP PROM!!!!! them dancing together!! they’re so perfect

- “and how did you know that this is my favorite chocolate bar?” GOD

- darcy asking tara if she’d still like her if she was a worm

- tao’s coursework 😭

- the moment nick finishes his last exam and they all run out the room laughing. a beautiful love letter to adolescence.

- the soundtrack!!!!!!! literally all the songs

- “i bet you’ve all been laughing at me behind my back because i’ve been so oblivious” 😭

- darcy vs. the invisible fish

- mon amour

- all the exact quotes from the comics esp the bit with darcy calling tara “jonesy”

- TAO. just in general. he’s so perfect.

- literally everyone’s reaction to nick speaking french

- elle’s outfits???!!!!!!!??? also elle’s smile

- tara’s folklore poster. yes.

- tao giving elle apple juice and running away (twice)

- embarrassed and awkward nick seeing the hickey. “i don’t even know how to do that” MY ANGEL!!!! “oh my god, wtht—is that—? did i do that?” BRO YES

- “i’m sure we’ll get to do it one day”

- giggling after making out

- “we WILL be having words!!!!”

- tao answering the door shirtless obviously

- nick and tao getting to know each other 🥺 tao being reluctant at first but then obviously couldn’t resist opening his heart to nick’s golden retrieverness

- the way kit’s such a fuckin HEARTTHROB. he’s insanely good at playing head over heels. hugh grant Who like literally

- the immaculate found family vibes. they were thru the Roof this season. it was nice to see everyone knowing each other better and hanging out as a group more

- elle’s painting

- nick turning back to kiss charlie at the door in front of everyone 🥺

- oh my god nick you giant rugby idiot

- tao freaking tf out about planning a date w elle

- TAO ASKING HER OUT FINALLY

- nick n charlie running thru paris to gabrielle aplin HOLDING HANDS. also felt like such a celebratory scene. i love those

- elle and tao admiring each other’s respective passions for different forms of art

- “it makes me want to draw” so simple so Beautiful and i know exactly what feeling she’s talking about

- their first kiss and them not knowing what to do and just giggling together…. GODDDDDDDD like are you kidding me. the cavetown song. elle lifting her leg…… FUCK

- the entire cast walking in slow motion down a corridor to carly rae jepsen’s “run away with me”. they did that

- charlie slamming the door in ben’s face

- tao kissing charlie just for shits and giggles

- “what were you gonna say?” “i… forgot” 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺

- the teachers’ subplot . absolutely adorable

- all the “thank you, mr. farouk”s 😭 dads

- charlie in nick’s lap like are you KIDDING

- the queer to straight ratio is actually so fuckin hilarious. are there literally Any straight characters except tao and imogen? is imogen even straight? something was going on there

- darcy’s instagram post. so iconic

- tao seeing elle in her dress before prom. “you look… you’re so… hello!” PLEASAE

- taoelle paint scene GOD

- “you should invite him tonight! just tell him we need more chaperones”

- isaac realizing he’s aroace 😭 i’ve had that exact moment and i felt really seen <3

- “Like, being in a world where romance and sex are prized above everything else when you don't feel those forms of attraction. Growing up feeling that something about you is different, but you don't have the words to describe what that is. But then, freedom; the euphoria of freeing yourself from those pressures and expectations.” 🖤🤍💜 i cried.

- seven. nick and charlie kissing with seven by taylor swift in the background.

- their kiss in the doorway in the last scene oh my god. charlie on tiptoes

- and, as always, the way this show is an UNAPOLOGETIC CELEBRATION OF QUEERNESS. THANK YOU ALICE OSEMAN ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤

my heart has stopped :)

[mortumslab]

Remembering to be Human - Chapter 2

The second chapter of my rendition of Retribution into Revelations and Revolution. Hope you enjoy it!

tw: suicidal thoughts, ideations. Alcohol use.

Link to Chapter 1:

-

During the cab ride, you’d expected there to be only three outcomes. Death was the most attractive. Now, you suppose part of you dared hope to be held by Julia following a life-changing experience. 

“Jules… I’m sorry. For everything.” You’re not sure why you’re breaking the silence, but you need to understand what’s going to happen next. 

“You have nothing to be sorry for.” She says softly, turning to you, running her hand down your back - shivers trail up your arms. “You only saw one option to bring them to heel. And I want to help.” 

She slowly gets up and finds two robes. You wonder, briefly, why she has two but suspect the answer would be as funny as it would be awkward. Donning the robe, with a flourish not unlike Heartbreak’s, Julia giggles. “You developed a flair for the dramatic, didn’t you.” 

Smiling softly, you reply, “Sidestep wasn’t much for the dramatics. Neither was she one to cause a scene. I needed to learn to do both to get my job done.”

“Your job…” She bites her lip in concentration as she leads you to the kitchen table. “What is your plan?” You did not expect to have this conversation today, but you’ve got nothing left to lose. And everything left to gain.

“I wanted to lead them to the Farm. To what the Directive is doing. The Director is above the current administration and beyond what is expected or tolerated.” You feel the anger suffusing you again. Righteous. Purposeful. Your crusade. “Begin by undermining the current establishment. I told Blaze, you, Chen, and anyone who would listen that the people you work for are the enemies. That you’re working for them.” You don’t blame her, and by her reaction to that, she knows you don’t. 

“I lead them to Deveraux. But there are still more mysteries to solve. When Los Diabolos is cleansed of those that favor the actions of the Farm, then I will take the fight to them. To finish this. Once and for all.” You feel like a warlord giving your final speech before a battle. Despite being naked in a bathrobe in your… girlfriend’s home. Another weird thought.

“Okay.” She says very simply. Which almost makes you laugh. “Then we need to start by bringing in the others.” She’s serious, and you know she’s right, but you flinch anyway.

“Danny… he’s not going to like this.” You know he’s not been the same since your battle. You hurt him in a way you never meant to. You meant to get killed, to be stopped. Charge just couldn’t do the job. And neither could Lady Argent.

“I know. And you’ll have to beg for his forgiveness. He idolizes Sidestep, but unless you apologize, he’ll be a loose end that we can’t tie up.” You know she means she won’t be able to help if not all the Rangers are on board. You expected as much.

“Then we’ll have to convince him my— our goals are worth it.” You see her smile at your slip. “I know there are documents that can help. I’ll get Dr. Mortum to draw them up for me. That’s another problem I need to solve.” You know you’re talking out loud, but everything is on the table now.

“What do you mean?” She frowns. “You work with Mortum, too? No wonder your armor is so powerful. And your disintegration powers… do they work like her gun?” You realize that no one knows about the neutered nanovores. And remember that Argent will be livid that you possessed her. Oh well, you have an idea to fix that. Not a good one.

You hesitate briefly, “I don’t have disintegration powers like that.” You’re not sure how to say it, but you were the hero of the Nanosurge, so it’s not like you don’t know what they’re capable of. “They’re actually neutered nanovores; it’s what I used Argent for back last year.” You realize she probably didn’t know about that, but her reaction tells you she suspected it. 

“Arya… you know how dangerous those are.” She’s not chiding you, more worried about your safety. The original creator of the nanovores was eaten by their own design. 

“I know. Mortum reprogrammed them. The casing on my left wrist - the one you almost destroyed,” you say with a small smile, “is where they’re housed. They don’t eat organic matter. And the Rat King and I control them.” Now she’s confused, it’s a funny expression.

“Rat… King?” She’s looking at you like you’ve become a victim of a Disney film. “wait… Blaze mentioned he felt like… like rats were talking to him when you nearly killed yourself after Deverauex.”

“Psychopathor’s gun runs off a weird psi-sensitive targeting system. It’s hard to explain, but I called this pentad of rat brains the Rat King, and he seems to like it.” You’re talking a little fast now because everything you say sounds ridiculous. “And when I called the Directive on him last year, I used them to remove the gun and take it.” She laughs suddenly, “That was you? But it was a deeper voice?” And now you have to spill that last bean.

“After Heartbreak I developed new powers… and I became an alpha-level telepath. I can control other people for a time. Though higher willpower makes it difficult. It doesn’t hurt them; just gives them a headache.” She looks a bit put off. But not upset. 

“Alpha-level.” She whispers softly. “Fuck.” 

Fuck, indeed. You nod but don’t say anything.

“So I need to speak with Mortum, get documents from Heartbreak, and probably let her into the fact that Eden was me all along.” You finish your sentence and realize Julia looks like someone smacked her.

It takes her a minute to process what you said. “No wonder we got along so well.” She sounds exasperated but in a ‘my girlfriend is insane’ and less of an ‘oh god, I fucked a villain.’ “I knew she was connected to you, but I didn’t… how does that work?”

"I found her in a coma 3 years ago. She was wasting away and brain-dead. No one coming for her. I saved her body; maybe one day I can save her mind. But with whatever Heartbreak did to me, it was very easy to operate her as though she were my own body." You feel your cheeks reddening. "I tried to avoid you, but you don’t let up easily.” You know she was probably onto Eden as your liaison.

“I knew she was connected to Heartbreak, but I wasn’t sure how. She— you kept dodging me so well.” You smile softly. “I’m sorry about that. I didn’t want to get her involved with you as well as Mortum. Things were, and are, getting so difficult.”

There’s a long silence. She’s thinking - not that you can see into her mind, but she’s biting her lip in a way that also furrows her brow. “So what do you need me to do?” 

“I need you to collect the Rangers, and I guess we need to discuss this. I can’t give up the villainy act or come out as Sidestep again. The Directive will be all over us and you guys can’t get caught up in this until we’re ready to completely bring it all down.” You’re serious, and you know she can tell. 

“So you’ll still have to be a villain to the public?” She’s worried, but you’re not. You have her now. 

“Yeah… for now. For now, operating on the underground gets me connections the Rangers cannot. And allies we may need. I know you’ve been hunting Hollow Ground and I plan to go for them as well.” You see a flicker in her face. It’s not the same anger, but… nervousness?

“What?” You ask.

She ignores that question, “I agree we’ll need the underground contacts. I guess it’s only a matter of how we still pretend to all be enemies. That is if Danny and Argent are willing to forgive you.”

“I agree, but why did you flinch when I said Hollow Ground.” You’re not letting her weasel out of it.

“When… when I first met you. God, this is gonna sound so dumb now. I had already seen Hollow Ground’s face. Well. At least this version. She’s the second one. The first one was her brother. This is the one who killed Hood. And when I saw your face. You both look so similar.” She’s not making any sense. You don’t know Hollow Ground. At all.

She’s still speaking, “—I looked into her and found her youngest sister. But she was reported dead. And I had suspected you were fleeing from their business. That was why you hid your face. I never suspected… the Re-Gene angle.” She doesn’t even stumble over the last part. You hide your affection with a swift look at the ground, biting your lip. You know the Farm uses genetics from viable, powerful boosts. Maybe Hollow Ground is partly your genetics? You repeat this to Julia.

She nods, “That would make sense. Both Hollow Grounds are immensely powerful. The name came from a geokinetic user, at first. The current one, I believe, is a telepath.” You understand now. Why no one knows Hollow Ground. “She’s erasing their memories. I can do it, I don’t, but I could.” 

“Okay, so… we collect the Rangers, and you’re going to go solve the issues with Mortum?” Julia looks excited to actually do something. Happier than she’s been in a long time, except maybe half an hour ago.

“I need to explain to her who Eden is and bring her into my confidence. At the very least try. Hopefully, she doesn’t shoot me or anything.” You’re half-joking, but she’s pulled a gun on you before.

“Do you want me to come with you?” 

“God no, imagine the former marshall and a dead hero showing up to meet her; she’d probably pull out some monster of a machine and obliterate us.” You start laughing at the idea. Laughter. The first belly laugh you’ve had since Heartbreak’s release - since your manic laughter at the gala. Except this is pure. 

Julia is laughing, too. The idiot. The lovely idiot.

You leave the apartment. A bit numb. It’s dark now, but inside you’re bright. You’re invincible. The hardest secrets you’ve kept are out, and it’s a relief. You knew being perceived as a villain was going to hurt. But you knew your enemies were on the side of angels. So you couldn’t be. You kept trying to get into the villain aesthetic but you never could. The only truly heinous things you’d done were hurting your friends. Though, at the time you had no idea the depths of their love for you. And, you admit, you wouldn’t have cared. Heartbreak scarred your emotions. Untied you from reality. Dissociation, like Dr. Finch said. Something that you managed to regain when you spilled to Jules. Parts of it, at least. Maybe the rest will recover when you finally have the Rangers on your side. Or when this is finally over.

You arrive back to the penthouse; Savannah looks up, readying herself to leave. 

“Good night,” you smile at her. She works late, but usually just takes contracts from people who need a former telepath to help them make deals. Your cover story.

Moving to your desk, you press the small button under the etched wood. In front of you, the wall shimmers and reveals your plans. Your board of civil unrest. Connections from Devereaux to Carter to the Mayor. To Hollow Ground and the folks she has purchased. Someone you probably share genetics with. You’ll have to deal with that soon.

Pulling out your phone you call Dr. Mortum, knowing she’ll still be awake.

“Hello, mon amie, what can I do for you?”

“Hey, I need to talk to you. Or, rather my Boss does.”

“In person… or…”

“Yes… there have been some… developments, and she needs to share some secrets.”

“Okay… where?”

“Joes is fine. She’ll be in armor, but she’ll want to talk privately inside the bar. She’s not going to hurt you. She doesn’t hurt innocent people.”

There’s a soft laugh, maybe slightly sarcastic. “Mon amie, I am anything but innocent.”

“You’re not the one she’s leading a crusade against.” 

“Very well. Tonight?”

“If possible, yes. In the next hour.”

“Will you be there?”

You swallow hard, “In spirit.” You try to make it sound light, but it probably sounds forced.

Now you don your armor, and without letting yourself overthink it, you make your way to the garage where Rosie hangs out till the late evening hours. She’s still here, and she gives you a weird look as you approach and, without hesitating, remove your helmet. Rosie’s eyes widen briefly before she says, “Holy shit, you’re Sidestep. You’re supposed to be dead.”

“Good telepaths never stay dead.” You say though you wish sometimes you had. No, no time for those thoughts.

“I just… wow okay.” She takes a second to collect herself. “Why now? Why are you revealing yourself?” She’s asking the right questions, you’re glad you’ve trusted her.

“Because we’re about to make some serious progress and some dangerous, but reliable allies. You know I was a Ranger associate before I died?” She looks suspiciously at you, but then her eyes widen.

“You’re going to work with them?” She looks a little scared, maybe angry.

“In a sense. They’re going to be brought in on the plan because this plan requires us all working together. If we’re going to bring down the government, we need the ones with the power. And they trusted Sidestep.”

“So what do you need me to do?” You can tell she accepted that, that there was a reason her boss never killed. Almost an anti-hero. A vigilante.

“I need you to take me to Joes and then to Ranger HQ. If I don’t get killed at Joes first.” You’re going to just make this a big day. For everyone.

“Oh.” She looks nervous, but then shrugs and hops in the van.

You stop for a moment, breathe, and then, using your helmet HUD, send a message to Ortega to let her know you’re going to Mortum and then to the HQ.

She replies almost instantly, giving you butterflies; who is this person you’ve become? The message is short but sweet. 

“K. I have them assembled. They’re confused, but I told them we needed to trust you. I love you.” 

You respond with a heart emoji, not yet sure how to say it back, but swearing to yourself you’ll work on it. Your second thought is wondering why Mortum installed a messaging system with emojis into the HUD, but that’s neither here nor there.

You settle calmly in the back of the van, spreading your senses and assuring no one has noticed you. All is calm, for now. No dead spots to indicate the Special Directive is onto you. Though you’re going to be on their radar soon if you weren’t already. Heartbreak isn’t known as a telepath. Yet.

Arriving at Joes, you extend your awareness into the surrounding crowd. While there aren’t many people here, you need to be sure that no one means you any harm. Maybe you’re getting paranoid. Paranoia keeps you alive. It also kept you isolated from Julia. That’s a thought for later, this is now. You know the bar usually doesn’t cater to as popular villains as yourself, but you need to make a show for it. Mortum needs to believe you’re not some part of a Rangers plot - though that’s not entirely untrue now. She probably knows of Sidestep but doesn’t know Arya is Heartbreak.

You stride into the villain's entrance at Joes. The guards move swiftly out of your way. They haven’t had you here in this body, in this armor. Yet, they know you. You’re Heartbreak. Scourge of the Rangers, a danger to heroes and villains alike. But inside you’re nervous. Thankful for the mirrored helmet of Heartbreak, showing nothing of you underneath. 

You scan the room and notice Mortum sitting in the corner. She sees you. You’re hard to miss. The rest of the crowd parts way and you approach her table. 

“Good evening, Dr. Mortum.” You say, the voice modulator making you sound more like a comic book villain than ever before.

“Good evening, Madame Heartbreak.” Her voice is steely, but not hostile. She doesn’t appear to be armed. You curse softly, you’d said “she” over the phone. Oh well, too late now.

“I was hoping we could take this conversation somewhere private. Joes has a privacy room for these occasions.” 

“Very well, as long as there’s no second location.” She says this with a hint of a smile, but it’s predatory. It’s far different than anything she would give Eden.

You nod at Joe, who you know overheard you. He turns to a second door towards the right of the bar. It slides open and reveals a private cocktail room. You had called ahead while suiting up to make sure it was free.

Settling yourself down into a chair, you wait for the good doctor to seat herself across from you.

“Do you two want anything?” Joe looks nervous but maintains his composure in front of a big-time villain.

“Just a bottle of whiskey, the stuff Eden likes,” you say.

“Very good,” and he shuts the door; you hear the hiss of the locking as it becomes secure and soundproof. 

Mortum is watching you. Even though the dampeners are active in this room, you can see her processing. 

“So the suit is to your liking?” She finally breaks the silence. 

“Yes, it is everything and more.” You know there’s a lilt of sadness to your voice. This partnership might soon end. You’re not sure if the modulator masks it well or not. Apparently not as Mortum looks slightly less comfortable.

“So, the suit is not what brought us here then?” She sounds nervous but the doctor never was one to back down.

“No.” And you watch as Joe returns with the bottle and two glasses, bowing slightly before returning through the door. No more distractions. No more hesitations.

You reach up to flick the release mechanism of the helmet. It hisses slightly as it powers down. Your heart is racing, and you’re thankful she isn’t boosted. At least you don’t think she is. You hope she doesn’t know how anxious this is making you.

Taking the helmet off you fix your braid of silvery hair and drape it loosely over your shoulder. You can see your reflection on the mirrored helm. Your face angular and pale. Your eyes sharp, grey and tired. Your cheekbones high, with some moisture from the helmet. 

“Arya Svitkona.” Mortum whispers. You can see her running the numbers. Crunching the data.

“Dr. Mortum, I… I’m happy to meet you in person.” You’re not sure about this plan. If Mortum no longer wishes to work together, you’ll have to gather information on Heartbreak on your own. And you’ll lose a best friend. You need to remember what it’s like to be human because, until today, you were slipping.

“As am I, mon cherie.” She looks at you suspiciously. You suppose you never told her what this meeting was about.

“I… I’m not sure where to start on this.” Your mask slips; you should probably remain strong, but you feel tears. When did you become sappy?

“At the beginning?” She suggests, with a hint of a smile. Maybe a nervous smile, but a smile. Villains probably don’t break into tears around her often.

“Eden and I are… are the same.” You know that probably doesn’t clear anything up. You should have rehearsed this.

“What… what does that mean?” 

“I am an alpha-level telepath.” You begin. This shouldn’t be this hard. “And after my apparent death at Heartbreak,” pausing to smile at the name you chose for yourself, “I gained the ability to control bodies. But, usually, it’s difficult if they’re at all conscious or on guard. I found Eden in the hospital 3 years ago. She was in a coma and wasting away. I was able to save her body, but not her mind.” You pause. Mortum is enraptured. “And as a former hero, I can’t just walk around in this skin - you even knew my name. So I used Eden as a go-between.” And here comes the hard part. “But when I met you, I didn’t realize I’d find more than business associations. That I’d find a best friend.”

Mortum looks stunned for a moment. You had flirted with her at first but quickly broke that off when you realized what you felt for Julia. But Mortum and Eden had a close friendship.

“Well… that’s certainly something.” She looks upset for a moment but then looks back at you and asks, “Best friends don’t make the habit of lying to one another.” There it is. The betrayal. 

“I… being Sidestep, I couldn’t show myself in a bar like this. Not until I was established. And… and there’s another reason I used Eden. I wanted to feel human, just for a little bit. And not have to worry… worry about…” At this point, a sob racks your body. Just for a second before you calm yourself.

“Mon cherie?” She actually seems worried. Why is no one responding as they should today? First Julia now Mortum. Humans are odd. 

You press the release on your left glove. It hisses softly, like the helmet. Taking it off, you flex your fingers and then roll up the nanofiber mesh. Revealing the orange tattoos in the light.

“Oh…” Mortum is, again, speechless. You have a knack for it, you suppose.

“A cuckoo,” is all you can say. It’s pretty sufficient for an explanation.

“I need a moment.” She sits back and takes a large drink of her whiskey, downing three fingers in a single swallow.

You sit there. Staring at the woman who became a confidante. At the person with whom you shared many, many evenings with. Laughing. Existing. Being human.

"So you have been masquerading around in... in Eden, but instead I have been talking to you? To Arya?" She looks confused still, but not angry. Good. 

"Yes. And I told you I hated lying to you. The friendship we had was real. And I understand if you need time. Your friendship is more important to me than any business we have.” You pause for a moment, before pressing on.

“I had something to ask of you but this needed to be on the table first." You know the business with Heartbreak is important, but you also need to keep this friendship. For yourself as much as for the survival of Heartbreak's career. 

"I'll need a few days... but I think I'll be okay." She doesn't look angry. Mostly tired. "What was it that you needed?" You must have piqued her curiosity.

"I'm moving forward with my plans a little differently than I intended... and I need information on the Heartbreak incident." Your voice breaks at the end. It’s different when it’s your name. 

"On... Heartbreak... you know as well as I do, mon cherie, that it's been sealed and covered up. I suppose I don't get to know why this is needed?" Now is the time to test how far you're willing to go. You suppose you might as well be honest. 

"I'm going to convince the Rangers to join me in taking down the people responsible for the  Special Directive, those responsible for Heartbreak. Those who get away with oppression on a grand scale." Your anger breaks through. Fortifying your words. Good. You sound far more confident than the Arya from earlier. 

"That's... certainly a plan." She looks genuinely stunned."Very well. I will send you what I know when I get to my office. I knew about Sidestep’s— your death. So, I collected what I knew in case things were locked down. Which they were."

"Thank you. Seriously." You have no idea how to show your sincerity. "I will leave you to your thoughts then. Keep the bottle. I'll tell Joe to leave you be."

She's quiet for a moment while you put your helmet and glove back on. The world becomes safer as you slip into another mask. 

"Arya?" She sounds worried. You don’t turn around. "Please don't get yourself killed." And then she goes silent. Lost in thought. 

You hesitate for a moment before exiting into the main room. The crowd again parting for Heartbreak. You growl slightly at two men getting rough over the quantum slots. The modulator makes you sound effectively intimidating. You reach the parking lot without any further confrontations.

"Hey!" A voice behind you tears you from your thoughts. 

A well-dressed man with sharp features, maybe Asian inheritance, strides up to you. A little too quickly. Turning you raise to your full height, about a head over him. 

“Yes?” You try to act passive and uncaring, but you know Jake Manalo. And you know who he works for. Hollow Ground.

“I have a message for you from my boss.” You wonder what prompted this. Sure you’ve been causing issues. Stealing from her network. Umbral’s cash usually gets sent to her. Now, it’s dispersed amongst charities in Los Diabolos. You don’t think you’ve intentionally slighted her. Not yet, at least.

“What is it?” Act mysterious; you’re good at it. You did it for years as Sidestep. Julia is the only one who truly knows you. Well. Julia and Mortum. You see Mortum’s car pull out from behind the bar. The car sticks out in a place like this.

“A letter.” He reaches into his jacket pocket; you know he’s only reaching for a letter. Heartbreak’s telepathy remains a hidden and useful factor. Though you feign tension, anyway. Dramatic as always. 

You take the letter as he hands it to you. Your helm never leaves his line of sight, though your eyes flit to the letter. It simply says ‘Heartbreak.’

“Anything else?” You need to get going, but a personal message from Hollow Ground before you’re to meet with the Rangers - people who don’t even believe in the kingpin’s existence - is quite the luck.

“Just that they want you to remember your true allies.” He says this without a hint of irony or even a knowing look. His mind reads that he truly is delivering a message and doesn’t know exactly what or why. He may be the kingpin’s right-hand man, but he’s not in the know about this. It might be precautionary against unknown adversaries. Or maybe Hollow Ground knows you’re a telepath. 

Right now, however, you remain as though you’re not sure what he’s talking about. Because, truthfully, you’re not. You’ve yet to make any true allies besides Rosie and your other relationships are still rocky. Even if Julia loves you. And though you love her, your despair and isolation are creeping back. You need to get moving.

Without a response, you turn and redirect Manalo’s thoughts elsewhere. You know it worked when he’s distracted by a car horn. By the time he looks for you again, you’re gone. Telepathy makes for a good exit. 

Climbing into the van, Rosie gives you a strange look. You don’t remove your helmet this time. Too many eyes. Instead, you tell her to drive you to the Ranger HQ. It’s time to come clean.

You know you’ve kept the Rangers waiting for a while, which doesn’t make the best first impression. But you didn’t expect to be accosted by Hollow Ground’s lackey first.

After scanning the letter, you open it in the streetlights as the van speeds to the city center. 

Heartbreak,

I believe it is time we met in person. I have some interesting information for you.

Come alone. Tuesday at 9 P.M. 1343 East Coast View Dr. Los Diabolos.

Hollow Ground

Interesting. It’s not an address you recognize, but it’s also not commercial. It’s residential. And your HUD in your helmet tells you it’s a large villa overlooking the ocean. Further, she doesn't specify whether you are to wear your armor. You will, obviously, but it’s an odd omission. Purposeful? Likely. But why? Is it to draw you out and take you out? In street clothes you’re unknown. In armor, you’re a target. How the tables turn. You feel as though you’re the prey. No. That will not happen. When you’ve dealt with the Rangers, you’ll deal with this. You’ll have to figure it out quickly because tomorrow is Tuesday.

Lost in your thoughts, you don’t notice your arrival at the HQ until Rosie rouses you. 

“Circle around back and let me out. Then find yourself a safe spot to wait until I call for you.” You know you sound more like a boss than a friend, but you know she would rather come with you.

“Boss— I don’t know if that’s—“ 

“Please, I don’t want you to get arrested or killed if they’re less than amenable to a partnership.” You know you’re not being entirely honest. The only person who could die tonight is you. And, still, that doesn’t really faze you.

“Okay, alright.” She acquiesces. She turns the vehicle and circles to an alley behind the building. Letting you out you check your surroundings and know no one is watching you. At least from outside the building. However, you know there are cameras on the corners of this building. Avoiding them until the last possible moment will be best. 

You quickly shoot Julia a message.

“Here. Wearing armor. Going to come in hot.”

An immediate response.

“Wait. What? No. Come in as Arya.”

But you’ve already made your decision. You’re coming in as Heartbreak. You hope Julia’s reasoning for gathering them was subtle. But you doubt it. Maybe they expect Arya and your sudden arrival will make your reveal a little more believable. Of course, why wouldn’t they believe it? The only two who might be still in the dark are Argent… and Daniel. Daniel is going to be tricky. Ask for forgiveness rather than for permission. You only pray that— BEEP.

A notification on your HUD startles you. Not Julia this time, but she did leave you a string of concerned messages, mixed with expletives. This is an email, from Mortum. How on earth did she get your private email? Another problem for another day. Those keep stacking up. The email has an attachment, simply “Heartbreak.” You don’t imagine it’s titled after your villainous identity. 

Taking a final deep breath, you aim your grappling hook, the Rat King helping check your surroundings for signs of trouble and cameras. It would be a poor plan if the Directive saw you breaking into the Rangers HQ. The hook launches. The building is far from the tallest in Los Diabolos but taller than the ones around it. Though it’s no more than a few floors. When you lost to Blaze, your hook went at least 5 floors. Lost. Hah. You never realized that was a loss till now. You let yourself go. Nearly worked, too. 

The hook finds purchase, you hear the whirring of the suit, and you’re tugged at such a rapid speed you feel your stomach get left behind. Launching six feet over the lip of the roof, your cape flutters around you. Dramatic as always. You find the entrance to the floor below and jimmy the lock. Time to enter the hornet’s nest.

Scanning the area around you, you note several things all at once. One, you were too caught up in your thoughts - stupid. Two, no alarms go off, and no dampeners flick on. Three, there are far more than the four Rangers here tonight. In total, you count six. Two of them are the last people you expected to be in attendance. 

You creep down the stairs, knowing from your time spent here that the meeting room is just below the roof - for quick access, you’re told. You overhear voices - talking about you, about Arya.

“Why did you call us here again, Ortega?” Argent is speaking. Her voice carried a lilt of impatience. But curiosity innundates it. 

“Because Arya has vital information to tell us,” Julia responds, sounding too worried for someone who’s talking about a former associate. 

Taking one last final breath, you redirect the attention of all six to the elevator on the opposite side of the room, furthest from the stairwell. It doesn’t make a sound, but when their attention is away from the table, you move. Dashing silently, you present yourself in front of the table and wait for the eyes to settle back on you. 

Time to face the consequences of your actions.

[justanechoflower]

(These are well-founded things, so I’ll both try to explain myself, but also see if we have a good idea how long baked goods even last. If they WOULD last long enough to stay fresh for the next day, it could be tonight, we’ll go with that. If not, then it’d have to be the next day.)

(In the game, Sayori did bake eggs and toast for her breakfast. Perhaps Japanese schools are different? Or it’s a quirk of the game? Let’s also account for the fact this would be based off of how it was like in 2017.)

(By the way, I was referring specifically to the baked goods meant for the club itself, not the stands. Those we already established would indeed be in the afternoon, though likely that afternoon and not this one, if the club’s ones were first. We are not making stands in the morning! There really is not enough time for THAT! Just ”making” a batch of cookies that can be split across the club members. I don’t know THAT much on baking, but I do know a whole batch can be done at once, so you don’t have to bake separate times for every club member. And again, depending on how long baked cookies can stay fresh for, it might get to happen this afternoon after all. If only we had an actual baker among the two of us…)

(Not using that image for Monika’s bedroom does make sense too. In fact, while it was made in the DDLC reddit, it wasn’t posted by Dan Salvato, it’s made by one of the users on that subreddit for a mod they were making at the time. So actually… it’s NOT real! Reusing assets from other areas of the game does work fine anyway now that I think of it, though. This is supposed to be a video game, and Monika’s room has no art in the game. So any other houses just using the same generic background elements we could consider an actual part of the game’s logic. The game doesn’t even draw cookie sprites, after all. So if it doesn’t match something Monika has, it’s just the background not matching what’s in there, call it one of the game’s limitations. There doesn’t need to be much effort there, the player isn’t supposed to get a good look. Monika doesn’t have a route in the game after all.)

(One last thing. Flowey has some good ideas, and this definitely fits him in-character. Though I’ll likely have Monika explain that she really meant not to just go around the windows or go somewhere where it’s clear she’s staying at Monika’s. Thankfully, houses have things called walls. Also thankfully, Monika can send them both directly to Monika’s house. So long as Flowey doesn’t go around drawing attention to the fact he’s there like go around waving out the windows, it’ll be fine. But hey, who knows, maybe some of those makes it more likely nothing goes wrong and works as a backup, as Monika could likely convince people this other person that definitely isn’t Buttercup is definitely someone she’s known for a while! That shouldn’t need to happen, but… better to have a backup plan. But of course if he didn’t know about the conflict the game entities might have if they get conflicting ideas on who was in that house after Ivan comes back, since if Ivan was supposedly there the whole time, Flowey couldn’t have also been staying in the same house that Ivan was literally living at. Hence the idea that nobody should make that conclusion. Of course I’ll tip the scales in their favor too, but I’m not telling them. ;) Soon I’ll work on my in-character response. It’s clear we aren’t getting any askers in this last chance before they enter the actual gameplay world right now, so I might as well just have things progress. Plus, we did work out asks can still come in as long as neither Natsuki, Yuri, or any of those in-game entities that aren’t exactly characters are there to see it. You guys still have some time. And guys, don’t try to tell Monika about Flowey’s poem before it’s actual sharing time if you see it and she doesn’t. Or I’ll have to start blocking things from her like Nat does with Flowey.)

(…Okay, so I’m sure you aware I save these posts somewhere so I don’t lose it while I’m making them, right? This sometimes means I can look into things while I’m making this. So I tried looking into this, and yep, they could definitely last, they actually stay well for a couple days. Not sure exactly what the quality curve is, but yep, they can last. So yep, we can have them “bake“ this day and not the next morning. It shouldn’t be that noticeable in quality compared to the next morning, since they’d get served at clubtime, which is after school. (they would have cooled down by then anyway, so it’s just based on whether it’d be stale. And nope!))

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

(I remembered because Flowey isn't actually attending any classes- (Or maybe he can? But everything would likely go over his head, and he isn't registered as an actual school visitor.) -so he would be able to bake them while everyone else is at school if he isn't going until the club meeting starts. But if he is, then the baking woud done today.)

(If anyone realizes Flowey was living in the same house as Ivan, we could say Ivan was away visiting family or something for a bit. The house was rented out and Flowey's family took it for the little while he is staying.

(Important stuff directed to askers is highlighted red again

(Also it's so sad that Monika doesn't get a route! :( I did not know that, but then again, in-game Monika isn't very nice. Or she is nice, but it's not very real. I'm glad your Monika is good!

[ghostwise]

25 for the kiss prompts? <3

Wet kisses after finding refuge from the rain. 800 words

Ferelden’s rain is cold.

Ferelden’s rain is pinpricks of ice-water settling onto his skin, his hair, and seeping through his clothes. It is nothing like the rain in Antiva, which is warmer, and full of fat little drops that land on the cobbled streets in a murmur. No—Ferelden’s rain hisses over the land. It seethes.

They’ve taken refuge on an abandoned farm to the south.

Zevran watches the rain. He shivers.

Whoever lived here left in a hurry. There’s moldy stew in a pot in the kitchen, shattered dishes strewn about, and dead horses in the field—but it’s somewhere to wait out the storm, so they quickly opt to stay, packing the carts and provision into the barn, and hoping to fix up a fire and a meal in the house.

Meanwhile Zevran is gathering a few supplies from his pack, but he doesn’t want to go inside just yet. The distance between the barn and the farmhouse makes him pause and think that maybe he should wait for the rain to let up a bit.

It seems he won’t have to wait alone.

A form approaches through the curtain of rain, hazy at first, but quickly solidifying into that of Warden Mahariel. He is ghost-like and completely drenched. His hair is wet. His shirt is soaked and clinging to his arms.

Actually, the rain is a good thing. The rain is a blessing. The water cycle, the flowers, et cetera, and all of that. Thank the Maker for the rain, and may it rain every day, Zevran thinks.

He smiles as Hamal hurries under the eaves, brushing water from his face.

“Warden,” Zevran says, a bit delayed.

Hamal nods at him. He gathers up his braids and squeezes the water from them.

They have a nice rapport, he and Hamal. At least that is the impression Zevran has, ever since Hamal invited him hunting a week prior—while knowing damn well that Zevran never hunted for his food, could scarcely fire a bow, and had no interest in doing so.

No matter. He’d rightly interpreted the invitation’s motive. Now the question was whether this marked a new shift for them, or if the Warden’s curiosity had already been sated.

It’s hard to tell. He’s a quiet man.

“Couldn’t find anything,” Hamal sighs. “Land’s blighted to hell so anything we scavenge is bound to be tainted.”

“Ah,” Zevran says, not really interested in that. “So it is to be cabbage soup again?”

Hamal just smiles at him. Walking towards the cart, he waves him over wordlessly, and, though confused, Zevran follows him, drawing right up to him, close enough to be fully aware of the water still dripping from his form, and the smell of petrichor, and pine, and underneath that the soft scent of yarrow from his soap.

“There’s a granary behind the farm,” Hamal says. He pulls out a sealed clay pot, shiny with varnish. “And I have some yeast from when we passed through Redcliffe. At the very least we’ll make bread.”

He smiles at Zevran, fully pleased with himself, and Zevran cannot help but smile back.

“Good,” he says. “That is good. But you know, I am not sure we should go back just yet. It is rather rainy, and we would not want the yeast to get wet.”

Hamal hums thoughtfully. “It’s sealed.”

“Allegedly sealed,” Zevran tries. “Not to decry the no-doubt fine culinary experts of Redcliffe Village, but why risk it? I am sure the others will not mind waiting on us.”

Hamal gives it a moment of thorough consideration. Seeing Zevran’s point, he gives a mellow laugh, then closes the distance between them. Zevran is struck by a feeling he cannot attribute to memory, but which he knows intimately all the same.

And though he cannot recall it, the feeling is this: A rainy street in Rialto, an unseasonably cold winter, and a peal of thunder that scares the other children in the apartment half to death. But not him. Zevran laughs in startled surprise. He’s never heard thunder. He wants to see it for himself. He runs outside, not caring about the rain. No one has yet told him that thunder is only a sound accompanying an electric discharge during a storm, and not some tangible thing to chase down and catch. But he’ll catch it. He will.

And now the feeling is this: A barn in Ferelden during the end of the world, and a dying man leaning him up against a wooden cart and kissing him, and the taste of rainwater on his tongue. Zevran bunches up his hands in Hamal’s soaked shirt and clings to him, no longer caring if he gets wet. A rivulet of ice-cold water runs down Hamal’s nose and onto Zevran’s cheek, meeting its destination after falling miles through the saturated sky.

A low rumble of thunder sounds over the fields.

Of course, they both later catch a cold.