#i thought about adding a third option of “ideally yes but practically no” but figured that would be too easy so i left it out

[scriobh-an-iontas]

Edit: Damn it I meant "morality" fuck

[midgardianweasley]

Your grace! Bless us with a Natasha x reader where the team is invited to a wedding by a close friend of Tony’s. Then when the bridal bouquet is thrown, the bride throws it too hard where reader accidentally catches it and the team is just going “Oooooh!” And reader is like “I’m not even in a relationship!” But the team know in secret that reader and Natasha have feelings for each other but are too dumb to know. Just funniness and fluff! 🥰😍 (Your writing is brilliant btw!)

I loved this request!! I hope i did it justice <3

it’s a wedding thing

Natasha Romanoff x fem!reader

^idk Nat, you tell me^

Summary: When the Avengers get invited to a close friend of Tony's wedding, what hidden feelings will surface? What relationships will bloom? Who will be the next bride?

Warnings: none!

word count: 4.1k

Message/ask if you want to be added to the taglist!

requests are open loves

“Alright gang, this one’s for all of us, we all listening?”

A cluster of ‘yes’ ‘go on’ ‘come on Tony’ filled the room, everyone eager to hear what the fancy envelope held inside. It was amusing to watch Tony take advantage of everyone’s excitement, slowly peeling the envelope, gasping when he pulled the letter out of the casing slightly, not letting anyone else see what was written on it.

You, Natasha and Wanda all seemed to share a look of amusement at the dramatics and the almost visible frustration coming off of everyone. It was like watching children try to wait patiently for sweets in a shop, almost completely off of their seats. It wasn’t until Tony noticed that Pepper was giving him a warning look, that he, begrudgingly, hurried up and announced what was written on the letter.

“Wow. Caleb’s getting married.” He spoke, eyebrows raised in surprise. “And he’s invited the team.”

“Well, I’m not going.” A voice spoke from the corner of the room, clearly un-amused by what was currently going on.

“Luckily for you, I don’t see ‘reindeer games’ anywhere on the invitation. So you’re off the hook.” He replied with a tight lipped smile, Thor had been visiting recently to see Jane and pay the avengers a visit and wanted to bring Loki to meet her.

‘A pleasant trip’ Thor said.

‘A living hell’ Tony corrected.

It got a laugh out of the team though. Nat and I especially. We’d spent the last couple of nights in each other’s bedrooms, making a list about our favourite moments through the day where Tony and Loki clashed, making stupid insults towards the other. I think it’s safe to say that we went through multiple bags of popcorn over the nights, though you were both thankful it was there, it was the only thing muffling the laughter, if it hadn't, you’re almost certain the entire compound would have woken up at the sound of our laughter.

You nudged Natasha’s side gently, the bicker between the two men still continuing.

“Hey, Nat.” She turned and tilted her head questioningly.

“So we know how a physical fight between those two worked out. But, if they had to compete in a rap battle, who do you think would win?”

Her face immediately lit up, eyes sparkling which only enhanced their beauty, you could almost feel the cogs turning in her head, trying to go through every logical option.

“Well. Loki seems pretty well spoken, so vocabulary wise, I think he’d be strong. But Tony is sarcastic which can help with quick quips. But then again, Loki-”

“Hey lovebirds, Romanoff, Y/L/N” Tony clicked his fingers, earning himself a pair of eyerolls at the term he’d used. “Anything you wanna share with the team, or can we move on?”

“Actually-”

“Overridden. Moving on.”

You looked towards Natasha, snickering slightly at how blunt he’s being, Loki having found his way under his skin again. A part of you felt bad for the man, but that feeling is soon replaced by amusement. It was obvious Nat felt the same way, her sharing the same expression as you, although, you could hide yours much better. She had to physically put her hand over her mouth in the hopes the man wouldn’t notice her.

“So, the wedding is next week, a little short notice but when do we ever have enough notice, who’s in?”

Looking around the room, there were a handful of nods, each looking to see who else was going to go. You looked towards Nat again to see if she was planning on attending, only to find her already staring at you.

“So Y/L/N, up for a wedding?”

“It would be a nice change of pace. Are you going?”

“Only if you are” You blushed slightly at the response.

“Better get your nicest dress on Romanoff.” You winked, her turn to blush and focus back on what the rest of the group was saying.

“It’s probably easy if I list couples first on the RSVP and then the singles.” Tony took a glance around the table, mentally taking note of those who had shown signs of agreement. “So there’ll be Wanda and Vision, Legolas and his wife, Romanoff and Y/L/N, Thor and Jane-” You felt your face morph into one of confusion.

“Woah woah, Tony, back up, what did you say?”

“Thor and Jane, they’re-”

“Before that.”

“I’ve said this before Y/N, Legolas isn’t actually real. I meant Clint.”

“Very funny.” He held a proud smirk. “Romanoff and I aren’t a couple”

You wish.

“That’s not what Rogers said when he saw you both cuddling up on the sofa last night.” Before you had a chance to look in Steve’s direction, you could practically feel the daggers Nat was sending him, making his face cringe slightly and his back straighten.

“That’s what Rogers said, is it?” She spoke, tilting her head in question. You knew she was partly joking, but you’d still decided to intervene before anyone lost any limbs.

“My head fell onto her shoulder when I dozed off during our movie. It wasn’t ‘cuddling’ , thank you very much.” You laughed, internally wishing that Steve’s words were true.

“See? So cut it out.” Steve put his hands up in surrender, despite having a cheeky grin on his face.

“Okay okay. Fine!” The billionaire said, writing something on the envelope. “I’ll just put ‘couple pending’” He muttered

“Stark!”

__________________________

You and the girls had just come back from dress shopping, all three of you had spent the whole day in and out of different shops, hours in dressing rooms and your voices were almost completely gone with how often you were telling each other, ‘that looks stunning’ ‘that’s the one!’ and the most common one by the end of the trip; ‘please just pick a dress so we can go home and nap’. That one was from our very own black widow, her patience wore a little thin after 8 hours of staring at dresses.

You had gone through all the colours and styles while you were out, ranging from classy jumpsuits to figure hugging dresses that felt like a second skin. Wanda and Natasha had chosen their dresses and were eager to find you one, and what a mission that was.

“I promise you, we’re not going home until we find this dress, okay?”

“Wanda’s right. We’ll stay out until they all shut if we have to. But, let’s make that a last resort.” Natasha eyed you both warily.

You’d been walking around for hours now. Each dress you tried on had potential, but there was always something that didn’t sit right with you. It was either too baggy, too tight, the cut wasn’t appealing, the length wasn’t ideal, it was starting to feel hopeless. You’d even suggested just going in your pyjamas, but Wanda’s death glare had made it clear that wasn’t an option.

You and Natasha were both dragging your feet, Wanda still having a slight spring in her step as you walked into the final shop and picking up a couple of dresses before then going into the dressing room to try them on.

The first two were okay, but you weren’t a fan. Then there was the third one. The third one was a gorgeous Y/F/C dress that fell just past your knees, it had thin straps and the skirt was simple and loose so that when you spun around in it, you felt like a princess. You looked in the mirror and you adored the reflection, you still wanted the others opinions though, though you didn’t doubt that they’d feel the same way.

Pulling the curtain back and gaining their attention from where they were looking elsewhere, you smiled when you saw their reaction, more specifically, Natasha’s. Wanda was complimentary, walking up and feeling the fabric, gushing about how beautiful you looked, but you barely heard it, too focused on the redhead sitting in front of you, her eyes glazed over and her jaw almost on the floor, completely zoned out on you.

“This dress is it, Y/N, you have to get it! Nat? What do you think?” Her head shook, bringing herself back to reality and briefly meeting your eyes, only to quickly dart between You, Wanda and your dress in an attempt to compose herself.

“Yeah, I mean, wow, you look- wow.” Her hands flailed in your direction. You’d knocked the assassin speechless. Wanda rolled her eyes playfully at the interaction. She’d known about you and Nat’s feelings for each other for a month or two now, silently cursing the both of you when there was an opportunity to confess, yet never did. It was obvious to the rest of the team, why were neither of you picking up on it?

Keeping quiet, she ushered you back into the changing room, much to Natasha’s relief, both because she wanted to head back to the compound and she wasn’t sure how much longer she would’ve lasted seeing you standing there looking literally flawless. She always thought you looked amazing, but there was something about the way you looked in front of her just then that made her brain feel like a haze.

It was pretty safe to say,

You bought the dress.

Collapsing on your bed, dropping your bags to the side and letting out a loud sigh, you heard your door shut and someone fall into the chair by the window. You already knew who it was.

“I’m exhausted.” The woman groaned, rubbing her hands up and down her face to attempt to physically remove the tiredness from her body.

“Sorry for dragging you around for so long, I just-”

“Hey, no, don’t apologise for that. We all said we’d find the perfect dress, and it was worth the wait.” Heat rose to your cheeks at her words.

“You really think I looked good?”

Natasha could sense your underlying tone of doubt, unsure as to why you would doubt her opinion, she’d always been honest with you. Nonetheless, she heaved herself out of her seat and made her way to the end of the bed, kneeling down so that your now sat up figure could look down into her eyes, with her hands on each side of your face to focus you on her and her alone.

“I wouldn’t lie to you, okay? You looked incredible and I'm sure you’ll look even better at this wedding on Saturday, if that’s even possible.” You let out a small chuckle at her words as a smile made its way onto her face.

“You’ll be the prettiest one there.”

“Better not tell the Bride you said that, Nat.” She laughed, looking down for only a few seconds before looking at you again.

“We’ll make that our secret.” You nodded in silent agreement, grateful that she’d made you feel so reassured.

“Thank you, Tasha.”

“You’re more than welcome, sweetheart.” She replied.

You were so lost in her words, you hadn’t realised how close her face had gotten to yours, and how her eyes swapped between your eyes and your lips. You didn’t realise how she subconsciously had kept edging towards you, hands trembling a little with every inch closer she gets.

She wanted to kiss you. Every nerve in her body was almost electrified with the temptation to just move her lips over yours and become one. Her pulse raced, almost to prepare her for doing so. Which is why she wanted to kick herself with a pair of her highest heels when she uttered her next words.

“We should get some sleep.”

You broke out of your trance, jumping backwards slightly when noticing limited space between you both. You awkwardly coughed as she stood, heading back over to her chair to grab her bag and return to her room.

“Yeah, yeah of course. Big today, rest is probably a good idea.” You both nodded, she was already one foot out of the door when she gave you a small ‘goodnight’ and left, not waiting to hear you say it back.

Just like you hadn’t realised her actions early, you were oblivious to her hitting her head off of the wall in the corridor just outside of your room, wondering why she’d backed away. Where was Thor’s hammer when you needed to knock some sense into yourself? She thought before dragging herself back to her room where she would fall asleep, unable to get you out of her head.

_________________________

“Right! Headcount before we go in! And I want us all on our best behaviour Avengers, this is a wedding” Steve had completely lost you after ‘Headcount’. Not only are most of you fully grown adults, sorry Peter, but he seems to be oblivious to the fact that some of you were wearing high heels, and patience in high heels had an expiry date.

“Y’know, if he doesn’t let us in soon, I’m not afraid to threaten him with his own shield.” You heard a whisper just behind your ear, smirking at the comment.

“I’ll join you.” You answered, Bruce and Clint sharing a knowing look from afar when watching the two of you have your own quiet conversation, though short lived when they saw Natasha’s head move in their direction, their gaze coming to a halt so as to avoid any conflict with their teammate.

You guys could try to hide it all you want, but your entire team knows better than that, they just had to wait it out until you both finally admitted it to the other.

______________________

You and the Avenger’s were currently sitting at a guest table, now in the reception part of the evening. The ceremony was beautiful, the bride wore a crisp white ball gown with her makeup and hair done to perfection, the groom looking like a prince in his black tux and a look full of adoration towards his wife to be painted on his face.

Their looks weren’t the best part of it though. The clothes and the accessories were lovely, of course. But all you could focus on was the love shared between them as they shared their vows telling the other how they believed they were each other's soulmate, and that they promised to always be the other’s rock. You’d found yourself with tears in your eyes, barely able to appreciate the sight with how blurry your vision was now. They finally fell when they said their ‘I do’s’, feeling only happiness for the newlyweds.

Although marriage hadn’t been something you always thought about, you’d hoped that you would meet your special someone and settle down, retire from the missions, the battles, the superhero lifestyle and just be with your soulmate for the rest of your days.

Despite not being a couple, whenever you thought of the person you wanted to spend the rest of your time with, there was only one person that came to mind. And she stood right in front of you throughout the ceremony, comforting a sobbing demi-god while he was also trying to explain to Vision why he was in floods of tears.

Music filled the room, upbeat, but calm enough for the couples on the dancefloor to sway gently to the beat, soft lights occasionally shining on them as they danced, the bride and groom being one of them. You smiled gently at the sight, feeling dreadfully single with all of the love in the room, but grateful that you could see so many people look so content and in love with their significant other.

An elbow could suddenly be felt in your side, pulling you from your thoughts to instead be met with gorgeous green eyes and a bold red smirk.

“Penny for your thoughts?” She leaned in, curiosity clouding her mind.

“Nothing much up there really.” You glanced back at the dance floor quickly. “I’m just happy to see everyone so happy.”

Natasha followed your direction of where you were looking, an idea soon popped into her head. She was going to ask you to dance.

Her mouth opened to speak, but as if it was done on purpose, a ‘screech’ echoed in the ballroom, catching everyone’s attention, including taking yours away from hers.

“We’re taking a break from dancing for a minute folks, It’s time for the bride to throw the bouquet!” He announced, soon followed by shrieks and the sound of feet padding on the wooden floor, women all gathering in a small bunch, huddled together as if their lives depended on it as the men all returned to their seats, shaking their heads at the commotion.

Not really wanting to take part, you turned back around again.

“Sorry Nat, what were you-”

“Y/N!” Your head fell as you were interrupted by a very excited Maximoff.

“Y/N! C’mon! We need to do the bouquet toss!” She started to pull you up, refusing to listen to any excuse you could possibly conjure up to avoid having to take part.

Giving the team a desperate look, hoping someone will help you escape, you’re instead met with encouraging and amused faces, including Natasha’s a clear indication that not a single person was going to help you. Traitor’s.

With a half serious eye roll, you quickly grabbed your glass of champagne and kicked off your heels, heading towards the group of screaming women basically crawling on top of one another when the bride was barely up on the ‘stage’ yet. You let Wanda wander off into the group but remained towards the back, sipping from your glass and sending the occasional sneaky glare towards your table.

“You guys ready?” The bride yelled, only to be met with more screams and a faint chorus of ‘yes’ heard among it as they all threw their hands higher. Wanda saw you were just stood there, and subtly used her powers to raise your hand, earning loud laughs and cheers from the Avengers, taking great joy in the scene unfolding in front of them.

“Okay! Three...Two..”

You kept your arm up, pretending to be enthusiastic about the toss, when you realistically didn’t really expect much from these kinds of traditions. What you definitely hadn’t expected, was for your figure to stumble backwards as you suddenly felt petals and stems in your palm, a faint feeling of silk brushing against your thumb as your fingers wrapped around the item.

You almost spat out your champagne, eyes widening in shock as you looked to see the arrangement of flowers in your grip, looking up to see women both disheartened and elated at your catch. How the hell had you managed that? You were literally the farthest person away, and on your own! You must’ve been set up. Okay, a bit of a stretch, but still!

“WOOO, Y/L/N IS GETTING MARRIED!”

“WHO’S THE LUCKY SOMEONE Y/N?”

“Y/N CAUGHT THE FLOWERS, Y/N CAUGHT THE FLOWERS.”

The bride noticeably laughed at your friend’s cheers, she hadn’t meant to throw it that far back, her arm just kinda went full force, but seeing the reaction it caused, she didn’t regret it. She didn’t even regret it when she saw the look of embarrassment on your face, as it was soon replaced with a contagious beam as you walked towards them again, a very proud Wanda in tow,

“Guys! Guys! I’m not even in a relationship! I highly doubt i’m the next woman in this room to get married.” You joked

“Well, I wouldn’t be so sure.” Sam laughed “Romanoff, you got an engagement ring handy?” He yelped as a peanut from the centre of the table was thrown at him, and of course with being a trained assassin, Nat had hit him right in the centre of his forehead, earning a dramatic noise of pain to leave his mouth.

These guys will be the death of you.

__________________

After some teasing, the room had filled once again with happy couples dancing, now including some you were very familiar with, one being a genius billionaire playboy philanthropist and his CEO wife, and another being an Asgardian with his Midgardian girlfriend, both gently moving side to side in time with the music.

Letting out a content sigh, you were met once again with the flowers, however, this time, they weren’t on the table, but were held by a gorgeous woman in a flawless navy dress.

“So, I know we aren’t a couple, but, would the future bride like to dance?” She asked, you let out a content sigh, pretending to think it over for a minute.

“Y’know what, I would, thank you for your kind offer.” You took the hand she’d held out for you and led you to the dance floor. While her hands went to your waist, gently tugging you closer, your arms went around her neck, hands interlocking behind her as you, like the others you’d admired all even, swayed.

You’re unsure when it happened, much like a time before, but your head had made its way onto your dance partner's shoulder, your body following suit as it left no room between the two of you, though you weren’t complaining. Neither was the fellow Avenger.

It was peaceful for a period of time, the only sound being the slow music and a quiet chatter of people across the floor. It wasn’t long before you heard the red head above you whisper in your ear once again.

“You really do look amazing tonight, Y/N.” You raised your head so it was directly opposite hers, sending her an appreciative gaze.

“That future fiance of yours is lucky.” She winked.

“Hilarious” You scoffed, fully aware of her humorous tone.

“I know, sometimes I amaze even myself with my jokes.”

“Well, it really is funny, because I honestly don’t see myself getting married anytime soon.” Nat’s eyebrows raised in what could almost be described as confusion.

“And why is that? Do you not want to get married?” Her hands started grazing up and down your waist, like she was comforting you, but really she was bracing herself for what was incoming.

“No, no it’s not that. I just..”

“Just?”

“I don’t think the person i’m interested in, is necessarily interested in me.” Her heart dropped. So you did have someone of interest. She pushed the sinking feeling to the side quickly so that she could respond.

“Right, and why is that?”

“I don’t know. I’ve never seen them make a move. I thought it’d be obvious. I think it has been to some others.” Your eyes wandered, lingering for longer than what was probably appropriate, on Natasha’s plump lips, wondering if you’d ever get to experience what it’d be like to feel them on yours.

This time, Natasha didn’t miss it. She would’ve blamed it on alcohol, saying that she must’ve just imagined it, but she had only consumed a few drops all evening, being too entranced by you didn’t leave much room for hydration. She hadn’t been more thankful, because it made a light bulb go off in her head as the pieces came together in her head of who you were referring to. She didn’t make a move the other night. It was obvious to the team. How could she have been so blind?

You didn’t see it coming, even when your chin was held in her grasp and you saw her face leaning in towards yours, the reality only hitting you when you finally felt what you’d been wanting to feel for the last months, right now. Your surroundings had just disappeared, the only thing that was running through your head, was the way her lips were moving against yours, and the way her lips tasted faintly of vanilla, and how she smelled like her floral perfume she wore for special occasions.

Whooping and cheering brought you both back from your bubble with just the two of you, your head falling just below her chin, her hand stroking your back as you could feel her chuckle bubbling where your head lay. Well, hid. Her arms had muffled their comments, but you had an idea of what they were, probably a mixture of ‘finally!’, ‘i knew it!’ and you’re almost certain you heard a ‘You owe me 20 bucks.’, that one making you shake your head.

Remaining in your hiding spot, that wasn’t very well hidden, but was keeping your bright red face to yourself, a pair of familiar lips lingered right beside your head.

“So, about that bouquet..”

You weren’t getting married, but by the end of the night, you definitely didn’t feel so dreadfully single as you had earlier.

taglist: @the-dumbass-that-throws-knives

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[ariwritessometimes]

Where Secrets Abound

Chapter Three: The Leaf of the Mandrake

Pairing: Remus Lupin x Muggleborn!Werewolf!OC, Sirius Black x Malfoy Sister!OC

A/N: SO I figured I should try to update this fic over here on this site since I have 21 other chapters done on Quotev and Ao3... So if you’re interested in reading the full, up-to-date work, my Quotev is /onceinspareoomofrivendell. Sorry for not linking it, but thanks to the whole “link censoring” thing that tungle is doing, I don’t put links in fics anymore. Anyways.... enjoy!

--

       “Are you sure I can’t just copy the last bit, Remus?” Lyra heard James Potter pestering his friend. It was nearly time for the end of year exams, and the Gryffindor show off hadn’t prepared in any way. Now, Lyra was stuck listening to them bicker in the courtyard while she attempted to study.

       Christmas had come and gone, yet she still hadn’t worked up the courage to confront Lovetta and Remus. Every time the opportunity arose, she wound up convincing herself that she needed to do more research first. If there were some way to help, Lyra reasoned, wouldn’t it be better not to go to them empty-handed? So far, there was only one option, but it was highly illegal, not to mention dangerous. Still, that Slytherin part of her heart had set its ambitions on helping her friend, so by Merlin’s beard, she was going to get it done. And, that meant proceeding with the only thing she could think to do. First things first: Where could she get ahold of a mandrake leaf?

       Suddenly, the answer came to her. Dear Lucius would do anything for his sweet, innocent, baby sister… Lyra snapped her book shut, startling the four Gryffindor boys, and jumped up, practically running off to find her brother.

       “What’s her hurry?” she heard Potter muttering as she went, but it didn’t bother her at all. Nothing could distract her right now.

///

       “Lucius? Can I see you for a second?”

       Her brother had been easy enough to find, chatting up Narcissa Black in the Great Hall. Lucius actually almost seemed relieved, like he’d just run out of things to talk about and Lyra had just come to his rescue. A small smile crossed his face.

       “Of course, Lyra,” he said, standing. He lead her out the doors and onto the grounds, turning to her when they were away from most other students. “Now, what is it you want to talk about?”

       “Well…” she began, not even needing to pretend to be hesitant, “You know how much I love my studying.”

       Lucius nodded. “Of course. I do hope you’re well prepared for your exams, for that matter…”

       “That’s actually part of what I wanted to talk about. I’m done with all of that, and things got boring, so I was reading some of your old second and third year books--”

       “Third year?” Her brother quirked an eyebrow. “That’s a bit elementary for you, isn’t it, Lyra?”

       “Yes, I know, but I couldn’t help but notice something new this time. I was doing some more thorough research in Herbology when I realized I’ve never actually gotten the chance to see a Mandrake leaf for myself. I know first years aren’t allowed to take anything from the greenhouses, and that nobody is supposed to take any plant samples without permission, but… Lucius, do you think…” Sighing, she pretended to be disappointed in her own idea. “Nevermind, it’s a silly idea. I know none of the teachers would ever allow it, but I just so wish I could study one.”

       Lucius made a soft tsking sound. “Come now, my dear sister, you know I’ll make anything happen to keep you happy.” Smirking, he swiftly kissed her forehead and turned to stride away. “I’ll find you later, Lyra. Don’t wait up, now…”

       Well… That had gone smoother than expected. It had been a long, long time since Lyra had pulled the helpless little sister card, but she found it more effective when used sparingly anyway. So, once she had that Mandrake leaf, then the next phase of the plan - the most tricky phase - could begin. But, she had only asked Lucius for one leaf, so that meant only one chance… She’d have to get it right on the first try. There was just one last thing Lyra needed to do before she began.

///

       After the bell had rung, Lyra made her way into the classroom. The sixth years paid her no mind as they left for dinner, and soon, the only one left in the room was the Gryffindor Head of House.

       “Professor McGonagall?” Lyra spoke up shyly.

       The woman peered over her spectacles at the small girl before her. “Miss Malfoy? What are you doing here at this time of the day?”

       “I… I came to ask you about Animagi.”

       “Animagi?” McGonagall repeated. “That’s rather advanced magic for a first year to be wondering about. You’re not meant to learn about that subject until third year.” There was a hint of a smile on her face as she continued, “What is it you wish to know?”

       Lyra gave her a small smile. “Are there any books that detail the exact process of becoming an Animagus? I find it all so fascinating.”

       McGonagall hummed in thought. “Yes, such books do indeed exist, but they are in the restricted section of the library.”

       “Oh, well that’s alright, Professor… Thank you for your time.” Lyra turned to walk away, but McGonagall stopped her.

       “Miss Malfoy… You are a very bright young witch. If you truly wish to learn, I could answer any questions you may have.”

       Lyra brightened at that. “Really? Thank you, Professor!” After a moment’s hesitation, she reached into her bag and grabbed a piece of parchment to take notes. “I want to be an Animagus,” she admitted. “When I’m of age, of course…”

       McGonagall nodded. “It is no easy task, but I see great potential in you.”

       “Thank you…” Lyra knew she was blushing, but she wasn’t used to being thought of so highly by an adult. “I know about needing a Mandrake leaf, but I’m a bit confused about the potion that’s needed afterwards,” she started, ready to write down every word.

       Throughout the time spent asking questions, Lyra had a strange feeling that McGonagall could see right through her, but the woman never once confronted her about why she was being so detailed in her research. She did, however, part with a warning.

       “Just remember, Miss Malfoy, Animagus transformations are closely monitored for a reason. It is a very dangerous process, and it is all too easy to get it wrong. When you do attempt this, keep in mind all of the details.” Then, she smiled. “I wish the best of luck to you.” Almost as an afterthought, she added, “When you’re of age to complete the process, of course.” Her wise eyes sparkled with a hidden knowledge, but she said nothing more.

       “Thank you, Professor McGonagall.”

       The door closed behind her, and Lyra looked back over her notes. This plan was stupid, reckless, and dangerous. It was everything she shouldn’t do, yet at the same time, it was everything she needed to do to be able to help her friend. The internal conflict was giving Lyra a headache. There was only one way to reconcile the two warring ideals: by imitating the mindset of someone who was stupid, reckless, and dangerous on a daily basis. With a feeling of great irritation, Lyra realized that she needed to learn how to think more like Sirius Black.

--

Series Tags: @jessicaofthemyscira @fictionwillneverdie

Everything Tags: @swanky-batman

[groundwiremantaray]

KisaIta College AU snippet. Takes place after their fall semester finals, sophomore or junior year because the timeline isn’t worked out but I had a need for pre-confession fluff

Dusk was falling by the time Itachi walked out of his last final. He rolled his neck and shook out his hands – being ambidextrous helped some but still, three hours of writing was a lot – and then looped his scarf around his neck twice as he headed towards the bus stop.

Kisame was waiting for him, his spiky hair squashed under a beanie, checking his phone with gloved hands. Itachi smiled inwardly – for such a big, tough guy, Kisame really didn't have any cold tolerance. That's what growing up in a tropical climate would do for you, although, Itachi thought, I wonder if Kisame would get used to Japan…

Kisame lifted his head as Itachi approached and smiled that toothy grin, which cut off that line of thought.

"Hello there, Itachi-san," he said. "How did the exam go?"

"It went well, how about yours?"

Kisame shrugged. "It wasn't that bad." After a moment he rubbed the back of his head and added, "I left an hour early."

"That's great," said Itachi, putting a hand on Kisame's forearm so he could see the screen of his phone better. "I know you studied a lot for that one."

"Yes, I suppose," said Kisame. "Anyways, these are the options that I was looking at. This one's got the best reviews but is a bit pricier, this one only does noodles."

Itachi poked around on Kisame's phone for a minute, then said, "Let's go to this one."

"Ichiraku Ramen? Okay, that sounds good. Any particular reason?"

"There's one with the same name in my hometown," said Itachi, watching Kisame input directions. Then, after a moment, he said, "Kisame, since when has your phone been in Japanese?"

Kisame said, "A few weeks ago – I thought it might help me practice reading, and you know I need help with that the most. Here's our bus."

The ramen shop was only fifteen minutes away, and they were able to get seated right away. "All right, Kisame," said Itachi in Japanese as they got their menus. "What sushi is it ethical for us to eat?"

Kisame's eyes lit up and he started running through the various offerings on the menu. His pronunciation could still use work, and sometimes he slipped up on sentence structure, but really, he was doing very well for someone who had only had one complete year of the language. Itachi wondered how he would do if he ever went to Japan.

The waiter came to take their orders, which they both gave in Japanese, and Itachi looked at Kisame's pleased face and schemed.

Over dinner they kept the conversation going in Japanese almost the whole time, Kisame describing the results he'd been getting in his lab and the project he was hoping to be able to do with his mentor in the summer if he got the research grant he was applying for. Itachi had already lined up an internship within his uncle's company, which he wasn't sure how he felt about, but at least he'd be able to be at home for a full summer.

"Although I'm not sure what I'll do when the grant is over, if I get it, since it's only ten weeks long. I mean, I could go home, but…" Kisame grimaced.

"Hm," said Itachi, and had some more noodles.

They got dango to go for dessert, split the bill, and walked back to the bus stop. Itachi was still deep in thought and Kisame, able as no one else seemed to be to distinguish between his various silences, kept quiet too, although he did hum something cheerful under his breath as they sped home. At some point they changed buses to one heading for the frat row and, in the half-drunk crush of bodies, Itachi stepped back so that his back was pressed right up against Kisame's chest.

He'd been fighting it all semester, but it was getting harder and harder for Itachi to deny how right and comfortable this felt. Their ritual, just for the two of them, even though many of their other friends were also of Japanese descent and would get something out of going to a ramen shop at the end of every finals week. The scientific journals that he ended up borrowing and reading because he wanted to know what it was about them that made Kisame's face light up like that. Carrying a goddamn Seafood Watch pamphlet from the Monterey Bay Aquarium in his wallet and asking Kisame's advice anyways, just to give him a chance to practice his third language (third! How could someone so competently trilingual harbor such doubts about his intelligence?).

Standing here, in the noisy confines of a bus, where by all right he should be halfway to shutting down his senses, and instead feeling completely safe, with Kisame's scarf around his neck and Kisame's arm wrapped protectively around his waist.

Hold on. When had that happened?

They got off at their stop. "Beer pong rematch tonight, Hoshigaki!" someone on the bus yelled. Kisame replied, "Not this time. Stay safe, kiddo."

"Shut up, dad!" yelled the collective freshmen of the men's water polo team.

"Planning to stay in tonight?" asked Itachi.

Kisame said, "Yeah, how about you?"

Itachi nodded.

"In that case, do you want to watch a movie? Konan and I were going to marathon the original Star Wars trilogy but she forgot what day her flight was, so she's home by now but I still found links. I also got ingredients for cookies, we can do that too if the kitchen isn't too much of a mess."

Kisame really didn't need to bribe him with sweets, Itachi thought. A quiet evening alone together was ideal enough already. "That sounds good," he said.

When they got home, the apartment was mercifully empty. Konan had flown home that morning and Dei was, presumably, out partying. Itachi set up the first movie on his laptop as Kisame fetched all the pillows and blankets from his room.

As they were cuddled on the couch with the opening credits rolling, Itachi put half of his attention on the problem that had occupied him since the restaurant: figuring out to how to convince Kisame, in a way that neither offended his pride nor strained his finances, to come home with Itachi to Japan at the end of the summer. His family would get to meet Kisame and would certainly approve of him (his mother would at least, and Shisui, and probably Uncle Obito), Kisame would enjoy it and get to practice his language skills, and Itachi…well, Itachi would have all the people he cared about the most gathered in one place.

The other half of his attention was on Kisame's arm, once again around his waist; on Kisame's muscular shoulder, the perfect height for him to lean against; on this sense of warmth and security, which he had so seldom felt before. I'm in love, Itachi thought, and it was not a bolt of lightning, it was not a cataclysm, it was as simple and as inevitable as the night drawing down all around them.

[gravitascivics]

BACK TO BASICS, I

Every so often, this blogger is reminded that anyone of his postings might be a reader’s first exposure to this blog.  So, it seems prudent to review some of the blog’s main organizing ideas from time to time. Those revisits also give this blogger the opportunity to add some additional ideas or concerns.  Here is one of those times, and there is no more basic idea associated with this blog than federalism.

Hopefully, even regular readers might benefit from some rehashing of basic concepts that hold this blog together.  Along with the idea of federalism, this blog has relied on the theorizing provided by the late eminent political scientist, Daniel J. Elazar.  He refers to this construct as federal theory – this blog favors the term, federation theory.  

Elazar supports this theory, generally, because the theory helps political scientists accomplish three goals that he claims political scientists should attempt to satisfy.  The goals are:

·       the pursuit of political justice in government’s role in establishing and maintaining order;

·       discovering the generalizable factors that correlate with the various political actions that characterize a polity; and

·       discover, communicate, and promote those policies that create a functional civic environment – through a civil society and a civil community.  

Meeting the first two goals helps meet the third.  

What’s of particular interest in listing these goals is that since the behavioral revolt within the discipline – since 1930s but becoming prominent after World War II – political science has set aside normative questions.  Yet federal theory places normative questions central to the study of politics and that concern serves as an overall, directed rationale for the discipline’s existence.

Elazar writes,

… federal theory, to be good theory, must prove itself empirically, and the practical application of federal arrangements must always rest on some set of theoretical principles.  Thus the study of federalism is central to political science because of its linking of theoretical and practical wisdom, which is what all political science should do.[1]

But before one deduces that federal theory can study all forms of political arrangements equally, one needs to take into account that federalism refers to a particular arrangement that a polity can have.  And in this, Elazar reminds his readers that polities come about and become structured through various paths.

         Citing the The Federalist Papers, No. 2,[2] Elazar reminds his readers that polities come about through one of three ways.  The three ways are choice, accident, or force.  Beginning with the last of these, force is where a strong figure, usually a military leader, establishes the polity.  More often than not, this leads to Aristotle’s rule of the one.  Whether the one is a dictator, emperor, or strong king, that leader equates the state with his (usually a man) or her personage.

         In the case of accident, a polity evolves from a people in which its leadership revolves around the elites of that people and their family ties.  Usually, such an arrangement manifests itself in a noble class, a nobility.  Here, what results, is Aristotle’s rule of the few. Traditions in such arrangements become important, especially if the traditions support the legitimacy of those families’ control.  In Europe, for example, the role of the Christian Church assisted the nobility by adding a religious rationale for the power arrangements that existed.

         But there is a third way and that occurs when a people, directly or through representation, establishes a polity; that is, it forms it through choice.  The choice option generally leads to the rule of the many, a la Aristotle.  A simplified view of that process can be expressed by pointing out that the people in question creates the polity through an agreement over the provisions of the resulting government.  

And Elazar adds, “understanding of federalism [that results from such an agreement] as a system of government based on choice and design rather than accident or force, which gives federal arrangements their special character.”[3]  This character leads, and this is the opinion of this blogger, to the necessity for normative questions being asked of the polity not just to understand its origins, but to understand what promotes and secures its continuation.  

And the central or near central question becomes what links and strengthens the association between the political behavior of the leadership and citizenry and the demands of justice.  If the polity rests on the conscious decisions of the people being governed, then that people need a reason to sustain it because that polity does not ultimately depend on force or traditions.  

It instead depends on an ongoing motivation on the part of the governed. Therefore, the polity, on an ongoing basis, needs to satisfy the governmental needs and wants of those people to a higher degree than other polities based on other foundations – the foundations of force or accident.

One minor argument that Elazar offers with which this blogger disagrees is Elazar associates federalism with natural law and natural rights.  Perhaps if he were still with us, this blogger or someone could ask him what exactly he meant by linking the two, but his aim was to distinguish federalism from organic or positivist (behavioral) theories.  

Behavioral studies, as alluded to above, are based on quantitative analysis of political phenomena.  Organic refers to the “accident” view based on traditional, established relationships. Natural rights can be more readily linked to behavioral studies in that by limiting analysis to behaviors, behaviors have the highest range of possible expression in polities that are established and maintained by “choice.”

The history of natural rights, while based on choice rationales, supports, through John Locke’s argument, the idea that individuals submit only to laws and norms that protect the rights of oneself and that of others.  Short of that, the individual pretty much has license to do what he/she wants to do.  Unfortunately, even though such an arrangement flows from an agreement (and this might be what Elazar is referring to), a partnership – which is what a federal arrangement sets up – demands more.  

Yes, perhaps the laws of a federalized government must be well-thought out not to undermine the integrity of each partner, but a federated union demands a more proactive support by its participants.  Laws might take on a natural rights patina – one can do what one wants to do short of hurting others or denying others’ their rights – but government policies in a federal union advance the interest of the commonwealth and, by doing so, will and can impose costs on the individual usually through taxation or other obligations and duties.

Having identified this possible disagreement, this blogger wants to highlight an advantage federalism provides especially in a more global political/economic world.  And here one can point out a weakness of an “organic” arrangement.  Again, organic theories are partial or akin to “accidental” polities. In those polities, the power structure tends to support a notion that the body politics is an organic whole.  

In that sort of polity, as pointed out above, there is usually a rationale that claims the power structure is determined by some divine force, everyone has a predetermined place and role.  “Downton Abbey,” the British TV show, demonstrates a paternalistic version of that mentality. But in a federalist arrangement, a different mentality takes hold and the opinion here is that it can accommodate a more global world.  On this front Elazar writes,

Federalism is resurfacing as a political force because it serves well the principle that there are no simple majorities or minorities but that all majorities are compounded of congeries of groups, and the corollary principle of minority rights, which not only protects the possibility for minorities to preserve themselves but forces majorities to be compound rather than artificially simple. It serves those principles by emphasizing the consensual basis of the polity and the importance of liberty in the constitution and maintenance of the democratic republics.[4]

In other words, federalism encourages and augments the ideals associated with the rule of the many in its diverse makeup.

         As such, this construct advances democratic rule through a republican structure.  Richard Dagger describes a construct that one can almost consider to be synonymous with federalism, especially the version this blog promotes.  Dagger calls his view republican liberalism;[5] this blog calls its view liberated federalism. From that writer’s account, one can readily denote the similarities between the two and they both mirror what is described above as federalist arrangements.

         An important derivative of these ideas is, in a world where living together cannot count on common ethnicities, common race, common religion, common national culture, etc., federalism becomes more instrumental in developing and maintaining functional political units, especially at the national level.  The relative advantage the US holds is that it began from a federalist foundation where many polities today are trying to arrive at more federalist understandings of governance.  With the rise of nationalism, though, this is proving to be very difficult.  

As for the American version, yes, originally, this nation’s view of federalism was too parochial – it even led to a civil war.  In addition, of late, in the years since World War II, the nation has drifted from its principles, but there is enough there to revive it in a more modern form.  In part, this blog is dedicated to the aim of advancing, to whatever degree possible, that endeavor.

[1] Daniel J. Elazar, Exploring Federalism (Tuscaloosa, AL:  The University of Alabama Press, 1987), no page designation, “Preface” in Kindle edition.

[2] Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, The Federalist Papers (New York, NY:  Signet, 2003).

[3] Ibid.

[4] Ibid., 1 (Kindle edition).

[5] Richard Dagger, Civic Virtue:  Rights, Citizenship, and Republican Liberalism (New York, NY: Oxford, 1997).

[vibefrost]

Day 7 - AU

I can’t believe Killervibe Week is already over! Thank you @killervibedaily for putting all of this together; it was so much fun! And without further ado, I present to you the Harry Potter/Hogwarts AU that no one asked for but received anyway. Enjoy :)

Better Than Magic

Cisco Ramon marched into the Great Hall filled with courage and resolve, barely taking a seat at the Gryffindor table before boldly declaring, “I’m going to ask her out.”

Across from him, Barry Allen looked up from his plate of scrambled eggs with toast and raised an eyebrow. “Really? You’re sure this time?” He didn’t even need to ask who the girl in question was.

“She only has two months left until she finishes her seventh year; there’s no backing out this time.”

“Just because she’s leaving Hogwarts doesn’t mean she’s going to forget about you. I know I certainly won’t,” Barry pointed out.

Cisco sighed at his friend’s unintentional reminder. Most of his closest friends were seventh years, and the thought of them leaving always dampened his normally cheerful mood. “But what will I do next year, when all you guys abandon me?” he asked morosely, already hating the thought.

“Not everyone’s leaving!” protested Barry around a mouthful of egg. “Linda, Jesse, and Wally are a year younger than you - they’ll still be here too!”

Cisco sighed again. “But Jesse and Linda are in Slytherin and Wally’s in Hufflepuff, and they’re a year younger, like you said. I won’t see them as much.”

“Caitlin’s in Ravenclaw and a year older, yet you see her all the time. You’ve just got to make the effort.” Barry took a sip of pumpkin juice and went back to eating his breakfast, seeming to be content with his response.

Disgruntled at his lack of sympathy, Cisco turned around to watch the steady stream of students entering the hall, and it was at that moment that he saw her.

Caitlin Snow.

To Cisco, she was the most beautiful girl at Hogwarts. Her long, silky caramel hair, round brown eyes, and tall slender figure had captured the attention of many, but it was her kind words, wise mind, and loving smile that truly captured his heart. He had officially met Caitlin when he was a third year in Ancient Runes class. It wasn’t an elective he was particularly interested in, but he ended up taking it anyway after Hartley Rathaway, a Slytherin third year at the time, declared he would never take a ‘boring, useless class like that.’ Cisco was by no means a fan of Hartley, so he was the first to sign up.

Looking back now, Cisco regarded it as one of the best decisions he had ever made. Not only did he learn a lot about ancient runes (which were actually pretty interesting), but he also became best friends with the Ravenclaw girl who sat beside him - Caitlin. Cisco remembered their first meeting clearly in his mind, and after talking the two quickly realized they had lots in common, and began spending more time together outside of school. It was through his friendship with Caitlin that he came to know Barry, Iris, Linda, Wally, Jesse, and lots of other people. So when he really thought about, it was all thanks to Hartley that he had made so many good friends.

“Hey, Cait!” Barry’s sudden shout brought Cisco out of his reverie. Caitlin looked over at the source of the noise, saw them, and smiled. Cisco felt his stomach flip when she crossed the hall and sat down on the bench right beside him.

“Hi guys. What’s -”

“Cisco wanted to ask you something,” Barry interrupted casually, giving Cisco a pointed look.

Cisco nearly choked as Caitlin turned to him expectantly. “I - uh, was -uh, going to, uh…” He swallowed. “Can you help me on Transfiguration homework?”

Caitlin frowned. “I thought that was your best subject. You’re probably a lot better at it than me, to be honest…”

Out if the corner of his eye, Cisco could see Barry smirking. You’re never going to live to see graduation day because of this, Cisco thought viciously, and then remembered that Caitlin was still awaiting an answer to her comment.

“Well, it is my best subject, and I, uh, want to keep it that way, so I was wondering if you could read over my essay and, uh, make sure it sounds…right,” he rambled, hoping it sounded convincing.

Caitlin narrowed her eyes suspiciously, and Cisco had to force himself not to nervously gulp. There was a reason she was a Ravenclaw Prefect and Head Girl; she was smart, and no one could keep secrets from her.

Thankfully, before she could interrogate him, Iris plopped down in the seat beside Barry, waving an opened letter in her hand. “Dad just sent a post,” she informed them. “He and some of the other Aurors finally found that dark wizard guy who calls himself Savitar. He’s being put on trial tomorrow.”

This took Caitlin’s attention away from Cisco, and he breathed a sigh of relief. “Savitar?” she asked, eyebrows raised in curiosity. “The wizard who’s obsessed with time-turners and was trying to make himself some sort of god?”

Iris nodded, and they spent the rest of breakfast discussing Aurors and dark wizards. When the large bells rang from the clock tower signaling the end of breakfast, all the kids gathered their bags and headed off to their classes. Caitlin waved at Cisco as she headed off towards Herbology with the rest of the seventh years, and he gave her a smile as he headed to the dungeons for Potions.

As he walked, he knew he had to come up with a plan. He needed the perfect spot, time, and occasion to ask her out, and he had to do it soon, before Barry slipped up and she found out. Should he do it by the Great Lake? In the astronomy tower? The quidditch pitch? The forbidden forest? He scratched that last idea, but kept the rest of his options open.

By the time all the morning classes were over and lunch had rolled around, Cisco had so many crazy, half-cooked plans and ideas spinning through his mind that his head hurt. Some people would probably say he was taking all this too seriously, or being too dramatic, but it was Caitlin. She deserved the best.

As though summoning her in his thoughts, she suddenly appeared from around the corner. “Cisco!” She smiled. “I was just coming from Charms. Want to go get lunch?”

Cisco nodded and together they got some food from the Great Hall, taking their plates outside to enjoy the warm spring weather. They walked along the Great Lake, talking about different classes, complaining about professors, and laughing about stories heard from other classmates, all the while enjoying their time spent together. As they walked, Cisco couldn’t help but feel at home. This was how it was supposed to be. Him, Caitlin, Hogwarts - he was going to miss it a lot over the summer, and specifically her next year.

All too soon their lunch break ended, and they had to depart to their other classes.

For the next few weeks, Cisco’s daily routine was more or less the same. Wake up, go to class, do homework, spend as much time as possible with Caitlin, and try to come up with the perfect place to ask her out. He was pretty certain she would say ‘yes;’ Iris had told him once that Caitlin mentioned she thought him attractive, which practically made him giddy for weeks afterwards. Plus her behavior towards him was different, more relaxed and intimate. He never saw her give hugs to anyone else everyday, or hold other people’s hands on occasion. He just needed the perfect place and time to do it!

It wasn’t until a week before finals that Cisco finally discovered the perfect set up. He had been walking down one of the corridors, taking a shortcut back to the Gryffindor common room when a door suddenly appeared on the wall beside him. At once, he knew he must’ve found the Room of Requirement. He had heard about its existence, but no one remembered where the entrance was, save for the Slytherin seventh year, Julian Albert, who claimed to have found it but wouldn’t reveal it’s location.

As he approached the opening, the door swung open and revealed a beautiful library full of books and flowers, light music wafting through the air, adding a peaceful feel to the room. Caitlin would love a room like this. It was perfect.

After scouring the area once more, marveling at the idealness of it all, Cisco hurried back to the common room to begin making his plan. He had the place, now just the rest of the details…

By the time he, Barry, and Iris left the tower to head down to dinner, he was confident that he had figured it all out. On the upcoming Saturday, he was going to ask Caitlin to take a walk with him that afternoon so he could show her a surprise. Surprises always intrigued her, so he knew she would agree and go with him. Then he would lead her to the Room of Requirement and show her the inside, which would be filled with books and antiques and all the things she loved. Caitlin would be thrilled, and while she was so distracted by her surroundings he would take one of the bouquets of flowers nearby and give them to her, and then tell her how much she meant to him and how he wanted to take her on a date. Hopefully, she would be overjoyed and say yes, and maybe even kiss him, if he was lucky.

Just thinking of his plan put a smile on his face, and it took all of his self control not to start spontaneously grinning during dinner.

The days after that seemed to roll by agonizingly slow, but soon enough it was the Friday before the ‘big day,’ and Cisco was starting to become nervous. Thoughts such as, 'What if she thinks it’s too cheesy,’ 'What if something goes wrong,’ and most prominently, 'What if she says no’ ran through his head, and he had to remind himself to breathe several times throughout the day.

He was so nervous that when he was walking down the corridor to go have lunch, he nearly jumped out of his skin when Caitlin appeared in front of him.

“Hey th - woah, are you okay?” Caitlin put a hand on his shoulder. “You look like you’ve seen a dementor or something.”

Breathe, just breathe, Cisco told himself, and forced a smile. “No I’m fine. I just…had a really intense Defense Against the Dark Arts class. Yeah.”

Caitlin narrowed her eyes suspiciously again, but didn’t say anything.

“Want to get some lunch?” Cisco asked. Maybe food would help him relax. To his surprise though, Caitlin shook her head and looked down at her feet, almost…shyly?

“Actually…do you want to take a walk? I need to ask you something.”

Cisco could feel his heart pounding in every bone of his body. Did she find out about his plan? She couldn’t have, since he hadn’t even told Barry! Did he do something wrong? Possibilities ran through his head, each one more ludicrous than the next. Finally Cisco had enough, and said, “Cait, please just tell me. I can’t handle the stress anymore.”

Caitlin cocked her head to the side and frowned at him. “Are you sure you're okay? You look a little pale.”

“Just say what you need to say and I’ll be fine.”

He hoped.

Caitlin nodded, and suddenly she was the one who looked nervous. “Well, you know I’m going to be leaving soon, and it’s not really a secret that we hang out all the time, so…y'know, I was just going to ask - because I’m pretty sure we feel the same way - but I was wondering if…” she cleared her throat and looked him in the eye. “Do you want to go out with me?”

If Cisco could’ve unhinged his jaw it would’ve fallen all the way to the ground. Caitlin Snow had just asked him out. Caitlin Snow!

“Cisco?” her small voice called him back to the present. “Can you answer please? The silence is killing me.”

By some miracle, Cisco found his voice. “YES!” he practically screamed, and then realization dawned on him, and he groaned, “Oh no…”

Caitlin’s elated countenance began to fade. “What’s wrong?”

“My surprise…” Cisco mumbled, and then spilled the whole plan to her. The Room of Requirement, the books, the flowers, his speech. By the end of his explanation though, Caitlin was grinning from ear to ear.

“You were going to ask me out too?” She laughed disbelievingly. “I guess they say great minds think alike.”

“Yeah, but I’ve been psyching myself all week for tomorrow, and now…it’s pointless.” Despite all the anxiety it had been causing him, he was genuinely disappointed that he didn’t get to surprise her.

Caitlin, however, was still smiling. “We can still go there y'know. It sounds like a great spot for a first date.”

Her smile was contagious, and before he knew it, Cisco was smiling too. “You think so?”

“Absolutely.”

Then she leaned in close, and kissed him on the lips.

And it was better than magic.

[gruvia-is-my-power-to-live]

New blog!  Follow me on here for updates or...yeah I can’t think of another reason

~we vibe~

“The pleasure is all Juvia’s.  Now please,” she crossed her legs and opened one of her binders, “what is the theme of your wedding?”

Don’t get Juvia wrong, she was fifty shades of embarrassed and felt a little disheartened knowing that any chance she could have had with Gray were now obliterated.  Was there any chance to begin with?

No matter.  Juvia cleared her throat and resumed back to the conversation at hand.  It’s unprofessional to make the client feel ignored after all.

“I’m glad you asked.  Gray and I,” she reached over to Gray who, in turn, looked back at her with a kind smile, “are actually planning our wedding and we’ve agreed that an elegant sort of energy would suit us best.”  Though she wasn’t able to see it, Juvia could figure that when Lucy reached out, she grabbed ahold of his hand.  As couples do, Juvia mused.

“I was thinking orchids?  Or maybe lilies.  I honestly couldn’t tell you,” Lucy said with a laugh in her voice.  “We’re honestly pretty bad with these decisions.  I can accessorize and dress well but when it comes to other types of decor I’m lost.”  Speaking of, Lucy was in the process of taking off what could be passed off as a designer jacket and purse— in Juvia’s eyes.  She didn’t know much about accessorizing herself.  “Gray here is the exact same.  On second thought, he can barely keep his clothes on by himself.”  He scoffed.

“I think you’re exaggerating there, Luce.”  Gray turned to Juvia.  “I can dress myself fine and it’s just an inside joke between our friends that I can’t keep my clothes on.  That’s what happens when I get near tequila I guess.”

“Juvia is the same!  She cannot stop herself from singing musicals and quoting movies when she drinks.”  The florist found herself leaning closer and accidentally thinking about a shirtless—

Nope!  Married man!

“Erm, apologies.  Juvia merely agrees with the sentiment.  Well, Juvia personally believes that floral arrangements are imperative in sending a message one wants to give.  Think of it as the energy they give.  There is much symbolism in them though they aren’t generally known.”  She flipped to a new page in one of the binders in front of her and pulled out a pen from her pocket.

Twirling the pen in her hands, Juvia made eye contact back and forth with the couple as she spoke.  “Orchids are a beautiful flower and come in multiple colors.  For example, white orchids symbolize innocence, purity, and” she smiled at Lucy, “elegance.  Which is a perfect choice for what you two are aiming for.”  Juvia began writing down their names on the paper and wrote down her growing ideas for the pair.  “Red orchids on the other hand represent fire, desire, romance, and passion.  These are typically meant to be given to someone who you love deeply, or passionately.”

Which I imagine you both have for each other.  Unbeknownst to the woman, the couple opposite her fidgeted awkwardly and looked away.

“Of course, you also have your theme to coordinate with.  So before Juvia continues,” she capped the pen, “what she likes to do is ask how you two met?”

The blonde looked at her fiance with a warm smile.  “Well it’s a simple story I suppose.  Boy meets girl.  Girl becomes friends with the boy and his friend.  The three have great adventures and the girl even starts to date one of the boys.”  She paused.  “They don’t work out and soon enough, girl and boy comfort each other and then one day, they kiss.  Boy and girl date and have been ever since.  And now the boy and girl are getting married.  Fairy tale, right?”  After listening to the story, Juvia couldn’t help but think that it actually wasn’t.  She read these fairy tales when she was at the orphanage as a child and though they were short, they had more love entangled in those words than Lucy’s description.  

It is not my place to judge.

Every couple had their own love language and perhaps this was theirs.  Besides, Juvia wasn’t their wedding planner, just the potential florist.  Therefore all she had to do was listen and provide her opinion on the flowers.

“Very much so.  As we were discussing earlier, orchids are a suitable choice for you two.  There are also other options that may want to be considered.”  Pulling out another binder sitting atop the table, Juvia flipped to a particular page and continued.  “Bouvardia is a beautiful flower itself.  It is often compared to a star, clearly shown by the petals, and grows in clusters on the thin stems.  They are the ideal size for bouquets and come in various colors such as a soft pink, champagne, coral, burgundy, and the classic white.”  She already turned the binder around so the pair could get a better look at what she was displaying while adding how they bloomed in the summer.

“Oh, that’s perfect!”  Lucy clapped her hands.  “Our date is set for August 13th.  Do you think they’ll be in full bloom by then?”  Juvia looked to the calendar, noting that she needed to cross out the previous day.  April and it’s supposed to rain all week.  Very fitting.

“Yes, Juvia knows so.  All she has to do is make a few calls and if you so desire, you will have your bouvardias.  Oh, almost forgot to mention, these flowers symbolize enthusiasm which Juvia deems fitting for you Lucy-san.”

“Lucy-san?  Oh no Juvia please, just Lucy.  I’d like to think that we can become great friends during this time and hopefully afterward.”  Did she add honorifics?  Oh.  That’s a shame considering she was doing so well practicing dropping them.

“Why do you do that, by the way?  Honorifics and referring to yourself in third person.”  Gray couldn’t help but ask.  Which, in turn, received a slap to his arm.

“Gray!  That’s rude to ask!”  The blonde looked at Juvia.  “I’m so sorry.  It is not our business to know and I understand if you do not want to help us any further.  Gray, get up.”  Lucy made to stand and was gathering her things when Juvia intervened.

“No, Lucy-san, Gray-san, please do not leave.”

“Gray-san?”  The man muttered to himself.

Juvia couldn’t help herself but to grasp Lucy’s wrist.  “Juvia did not feel bothered by the question.  It is in fact a common one Juvia receives.”  It really was.  Someone always felt that it was their business to know why she spoke the way she did.  The only difference between Lucy and Gray and the others was that they seemed to be remorseful.  Lucy because she figured it was a personal reason and Gray because...well, he actually asked it.  

Oop.  Let go before it looks like you’re holding her hostage.

“Regardless,” Gray intervened, “Lucy’s right.  It wasn’t my place to ask you.  I let my curiosity get the better of me and I didn’t think before I spoke.  So,” the man reached out to his fiance’s hand and held on, “I’m sorry and I suppose it isn’t that big of a deal to you but it is to us.”

“Exactly.  I think Gray and I can both agree that you’re passionate about your work and your taste is impeccable.  We would love it if you would be the florist for our wedding.  That is, of course, if you are willing and able to.”  Looking at the couple in front of her, Juvia took a moment to let it sink in.

They were both so kind in the few minutes that she has interacted with them.  This wouldn’t be her first wedding nor would it be her last but Juvia sensed that this particular event would affect her deeply.  Not to brag but she always had great intuition.

“Please say yes!  The suspense is killing me.”  Lucy groaned.

“I-It would be an honor.”

***

“Now sign here and we can begin setting an appointment for your plans.”

“Awesome.” Lucy finished signing and set the pen down.  “Ah, I’m so excited for your input.  You know the general idea and now we just need to iron out the details.”

Gray had reached for the pen and signed the space meant for his own signature.  “As long as it’s not all pink I’ll be satisfied.”

Just as Lucy was going to retort, a ringing noise interrupted.  Said woman looked around for her purse and after finding it on the ground, lifted it up and fished out her phone.  “Oh shoot; it’s my caterer.  Excuse me but I have to take this.”  Taking Juvia’s nod of approval, she moved toward Juvia’s desk and turned her back for privacy.

When Juvia directed her attention to her new client, she noticed he was eyeing Lucy’s chair.  Nothing interesting there.  Just her jacket.  He probably misses having her next to him.  Oh to be in love.  Or to have a pair of eyes looking at me the way I bet he looks at her.  Just a particular set...

“Yes we will be right there!  Thank you so much!”  A click and Lucy turned back.  “Gray!  Our appointment!  We’re late!”  Wow she runs fast because the next thing Juvia knew the blonde beauty had her purse in hand and a hand on her fiance’s shoulder.

“I deeply apologize but we have to leave now.  When is your next available appointment?  I’ll take it.”

Caught off guard for just a moment, Juvia came to and blurted out, “This Thursday at three.”  Good thing she looked over her planner before they came in.

“Great.  See you then!”

And then Gray said, “It was nice meeting you.”  One dazzling smile later and Juvia was left alone.

The florist glanced at the table and immediately regretted it.  “How can Juvia organize so well and still make a mess?”  She groaned.

Ding.

Juvia peered towards the door and was pleasantly surprised to see Gray had returned.  “Has Gray-san forgotten something?”

“Yes, as a matter of fact.  It seems as though Lucy left her jacket,” a gaze at the chair which she previously occupied, “and it’s right there.”  Juvia chose to help him out and meet him halfway so she swiftly held it and folded it.  Both held out their arms and stretched them out but when he tried to grab it…

***

Yeah, I saw sparks.

***

Their hands touched and the sudden feeling of warmth caused Juvia to gasp and drop the jacket.  Instead of attempting to save it from the ground, Gray found himself to have the same reaction.  There was no way he felt what he felt.  Her hands must’ve been cold.

An apology was muttered by the man himself and while he bent down to pick up the damned thing, Juvia found herself turning her head to look out the window.  Was someone witness to my sin?!

No.

Just his fiance waiting outside, appearingly speaking on the phone.  The person she was talking to must’ve made a joke since the bride was now laughing…  

Lucy was so kind.  She had just met her but Juvia just knew that she was open and honest.  Lucy was the kind of person she always wanted to be friends with.  Lucy was the type of girl that everyone would go after.

.

Lucy was someone that Juvia so badly wanted to be.

It must be nice being her.

“Well I’ll just be heading out now.  I’ll see you around?”  He snapped her attention right back and it was that moment where she recalled just how beautiful he was.

“Juvia supposes you will.”  One more damn dazzling smile later and he left.

Her eyes followed him out, onto the scene that portrayed itself.  A smiling Gray showed Lucy her jacket and the woman who then hung up the call.  She returned the grin and looped her arms around his neck where he bent his head to kiss her.  They both smiled in the kiss and that was enough for Juvia.  She tore her eyes away and went to put away her binders.

They really were the picture perfect couple.  Both of them deserved happiness.  She thought back on how...satisfied they seemed.  It was then where Juvia settled on something.

I will see through to this wedding and personally make sure that they end up in their happily ever after, even if it pained her.

***

Daffodil: new beginnings

“Sparks” by Coldplay

The way that I got my nails done and immediately felt the struggle isn’t even funny.  It’s so hard to type and what’s worse is how I had to finish the chapter and then work on my outline for this story.  When she thinks fast but can’t reciprocate the energy via typing…

Let me know what you think and thank you all for being interested!

[fitono]

How to Raise Your Profile in the Industry

This article first appeared in the October 2018 issue of Fitness Marketing Monthly, our print newsletter. It’s available by subscription only, with no digital version. Subscribe by midnight Eastern on the 26th of the month for your only opportunity to see exclusive content like this.

Imagine that you’re looking to hire a financial coach. And let’s say, through some amazing bit of luck, you get a chance to work with the top investment advisor in your area, the closest thing your city has to Warren Buffett.

The price is steep, but when the only other choice is a random dude with “certified financial planner” on his business card, you’re willing to pay extra. Why? Because the top guy has been around for years, he’s highly respected by his peers, and most important, he creates tangible results for his clients.

Now, think about the client who’s looking for a personal trainer, or a new gym to work out in. What reason does she have to see you as the obvious, number-one choice, regardless of cost, distance, or any other obstacle? What elevates you above dozens or hundreds or maybe thousands of competitors in your niche?

If the answer isn’t obvious, it’s time to raise your profile—locally, nationally, or even globally.

The following four strategies increase your status as an expert. Master three of them, and you’re well on your way to becoming the obvious choice for your ideal clients.

READ ALSO: How to Build an Online Following from Scratch

1. Stack up earned media credentials

There are three types of media:

Owned media is your own platform—Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube—where you control the content. There’s almost unlimited potential for building an audience, but limited prestige. Nobody ever followed “As seen on …” with “Instagram.” (Not even Jen Selter, who has more than 12 million followers.)

Paid media is, obviously, the exposure you pay for. It includes everything from ads to infomercials. While it can be effective, most of us do everything we can to ignore it, from flipping past the ad pages in a magazine, to clicking off or scrolling past online ads, to using a DVR for our favorite shows so we can fast forward through commercials.

Earned media is the biggest prize for most of us. It means someone else decided we’re important enough to feature in an article or on TV.

That’s why the websites of well-known fitness pros have an array of “As Seen In …” logos to highlight their media appearances and editorial coverage.

For example, if you go to Natalie Jill’s website, you’ll see a banner that includes magazines, TV networks, and websites. Same with Eric Cressey, John Rusin, Kellie Hart, and countless others.

Earned media matters because it means you didn’t choose to put yourself there. The editors and producers who make those decisions chose to make you the content, and there’s no benefit to choosing some nobody off the street. Once you become media-endorsed, you are, by definition, somebody.

READ ALSO: The Ancient Secret to Writing Powerful Sales Copy

2. Become an award-winning brand

For some things, consumers will automatically choose the cheapest, easiest, or fastest. But when it comes to their personal health and fitness, they want the best.

How do they know who that is? How do they tell the difference between #10 and #1? That’s where awards come in.

When I worked for a company that specialized in women-only bootcamps, we set out to collect as many awards as we could. It was a key marketing strategy for us, and we won them year after year in both fitness and business categories, including awards for best gym and best small or medium employer. We also got listed among hot new growth companies and top companies run by women.

The impact was huge. In just a few years we went from 30 locations across Canada to more than 100. Our annual revenues increased tenfold to $4 million. We regularly sold out sessions weeks in advance, while other bootcamps targeting our female audience struggled to reach 50 percent of their capacity.

Once we were the undisputed best operation in our category, we didn’t need to make extraordinary efforts to attract clients to us. The recognition we received from credible third parties spoke for itself.

Applying for these awards is relatively inexpensive, if it costs anything at all beyond your time. Sometimes, as I explained in the August issue, you can even ask the host to create a new category—one where you’d have an obvious advantage.

READ ALSO: When They Zig, You Zag

3. Speak on stages

When you attend an industry event, think of how you perceive the person sitting next to you. She could be a perfectly nice person, perhaps somebody you’d want to work with down the road. But because she’s in the audience, next to you, you perceive her as a peer, regardless of her actual status in the industry.

Now think of how you perceive the person onstage. Literally and figuratively, you’re looking up to her. You see the presenter as an expert. If she weren’t, you wouldn’t invest your time and money to hear her speak.

You don’t need any type of certification to become a presenter. The ability to motivate, inspire, and transform is enough to qualify you for many stages. Craft your signature talk, give it a provocative title, and then practice it every chance you get.

Start locally (in your own gym, if that’s an option), work your way up to regional events, and then pitch national organizations.

Stay sharp by taking advantage of any opportunity to go on a podcast or present at an online summit. Review your performance when the interview or presentation is released by the host, take note of what you can improve, and do it better next time.

READ ALSO: I Hate Hacks

4. Create credible content

Content is the linchpin for everything I’ve talked about here—earned media, local awards, chances to present. The first thing gatekeepers like editors, producers, and event organizers will want to know about you is whether you’re a credible expert in your category.

That’s why I always say this to my private and mastermind clients: Create the content you want to be known for.

Start with posts and videos on your own media, and then branch out. You can post your best articles at Medium, publish guest posts on friends’ sites, and then shoot for platforms like the PTDC, where your articles will be seen by your peers and are easily searchable.

Already past that point? You can consider writing a book. There really aren’t any barriers to entry, since anyone can self-publish on Amazon’s CreateSpace platform. The question you have to ask yourself is whether it’s worth the time and effort it takes to write, edit, and promote a book, especially balanced against all the other things you could do with those limited resources.

Writing a book for a publisher is a different calculation. For one thing, it means your book will be professionally designed and edited, at no cost to you. But even more important, it means you’ve been chosen by a series of gatekeepers—an agent, an editor, and the people whose job it is to assess your book’s potential.

Remember what I said earlier about how there’s no advantage for editors and producers to feature “some nobody off the street”? That’s true 100 times over for a commercial publishing company. Their jobs are on the line every time they say yes to a book, especially when it’s by a first-time author.

They aren’t just looking at your manuscript. They’re looking at you. They’re looking at the size of your audience, the quality and volume of your content, your reputation in the industry, how you present yourself on social media. That’s in addition to everything else I’ve mentioned already: the media you’ve earned, the awards you’ve won, and the stages you’ve appeared on.

Before they give you what you want—status and prestige that sets you apart from your peers—they need to know if you have what they want.

READ ALSO: Lessons from a First-Time Fitness Book Author

Final Thoughts

It’s safe to assume your clients already consider you an expert.

But it takes more than knowledge, skill, and experience to become an expert in the eyes of people who’ve never met you, much less worked with you. For that, you need to be resourceful and persistent. You have to differentiate yourself in ways others haven’t yet considered.

Moreover, you have to continue to be resourceful and persistent. As soon as your competitors see you featured on the local news, or read about the awards you’ve won, or see you onstage at a fitness event, you can bet they’ll start hounding the people responsible for each of those things.

The advantage of being a recognized expert is that it gets easier each time. Each appearance or award or opportunity sets you up for the next one. You remain the leader in your category, ensuring that others remain far behind.

      Don’t Miss Out on Fitness Marketing Insights Like This!

With each issue of Fitness Marketing Monthly, we hear from readers who’ve acted on the information and advice from expert contributors like Lisa Simone Richards, who writes our Public Relations column.

But the only way to get these insights is to subscribe. Every issue goes to print at midnight Eastern on the 26th of the month. If you’re not subscribed by then you’re out of luck. We don’t keep back issues and you can’t order reprints.

Ready to take your fitness career to the next level?

SUBSCRIBE TODAY –> theptdc.com/fmm/

The post How to Raise Your Profile in the Industry appeared first on The PTDC.

How to Raise Your Profile in the Industry published first on https://medium.com/@MyDietArea

[gabriellakirtonblog]

How to Raise Your Profile in the Industry

This article first appeared in the October 2018 issue of Fitness Marketing Monthly, our print newsletter. It’s available by subscription only, with no digital version. Subscribe by midnight Eastern on the 26th of the month for your only opportunity to see exclusive content like this.

Imagine that you’re looking to hire a financial coach. And let’s say, through some amazing bit of luck, you get a chance to work with the top investment advisor in your area, the closest thing your city has to Warren Buffett.

The price is steep, but when the only other choice is a random dude with “certified financial planner” on his business card, you’re willing to pay extra. Why? Because the top guy has been around for years, he’s highly respected by his peers, and most important, he creates tangible results for his clients.

Now, think about the client who’s looking for a personal trainer, or a new gym to work out in. What reason does she have to see you as the obvious, number-one choice, regardless of cost, distance, or any other obstacle? What elevates you above dozens or hundreds or maybe thousands of competitors in your niche?

If the answer isn’t obvious, it’s time to raise your profile—locally, nationally, or even globally.

The following four strategies increase your status as an expert. Master three of them, and you’re well on your way to becoming the obvious choice for your ideal clients.

READ ALSO: How to Build an Online Following from Scratch

1. Stack up earned media credentials

There are three types of media:

Owned media is your own platform—Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube—where you control the content. There’s almost unlimited potential for building an audience, but limited prestige. Nobody ever followed “As seen on …” with “Instagram.” (Not even Jen Selter, who has more than 12 million followers.)

Paid media is, obviously, the exposure you pay for. It includes everything from ads to infomercials. While it can be effective, most of us do everything we can to ignore it, from flipping past the ad pages in a magazine, to clicking off or scrolling past online ads, to using a DVR for our favorite shows so we can fast forward through commercials.

Earned media is the biggest prize for most of us. It means someone else decided we’re important enough to feature in an article or on TV.

That’s why the websites of well-known fitness pros have an array of “As Seen In …” logos to highlight their media appearances and editorial coverage.

For example, if you go to Natalie Jill’s website, you’ll see a banner that includes magazines, TV networks, and websites. Same with Eric Cressey, John Rusin, Kellie Hart, and countless others.

Earned media matters because it means you didn’t choose to put yourself there. The editors and producers who make those decisions chose to make you the content, and there’s no benefit to choosing some nobody off the street. Once you become media-endorsed, you are, by definition, somebody.

READ ALSO: The Ancient Secret to Writing Powerful Sales Copy

2. Become an award-winning brand

For some things, consumers will automatically choose the cheapest, easiest, or fastest. But when it comes to their personal health and fitness, they want the best.

How do they know who that is? How do they tell the difference between #10 and #1? That’s where awards come in.

When I worked for a company that specialized in women-only bootcamps, we set out to collect as many awards as we could. It was a key marketing strategy for us, and we won them year after year in both fitness and business categories, including awards for best gym and best small or medium employer. We also got listed among hot new growth companies and top companies run by women.

The impact was huge. In just a few years we went from 30 locations across Canada to more than 100. Our annual revenues increased tenfold to $4 million. We regularly sold out sessions weeks in advance, while other bootcamps targeting our female audience struggled to reach 50 percent of their capacity.

Once we were the undisputed best operation in our category, we didn’t need to make extraordinary efforts to attract clients to us. The recognition we received from credible third parties spoke for itself.

Applying for these awards is relatively inexpensive, if it costs anything at all beyond your time. Sometimes, as I explained in the August issue, you can even ask the host to create a new category—one where you’d have an obvious advantage.

READ ALSO: When They Zig, You Zag

3. Speak on stages

When you attend an industry event, think of how you perceive the person sitting next to you. She could be a perfectly nice person, perhaps somebody you’d want to work with down the road. But because she’s in the audience, next to you, you perceive her as a peer, regardless of her actual status in the industry.

Now think of how you perceive the person onstage. Literally and figuratively, you’re looking up to her. You see the presenter as an expert. If she weren’t, you wouldn’t invest your time and money to hear her speak.

You don’t need any type of certification to become a presenter. The ability to motivate, inspire, and transform is enough to qualify you for many stages. Craft your signature talk, give it a provocative title, and then practice it every chance you get.

Start locally (in your own gym, if that’s an option), work your way up to regional events, and then pitch national organizations.

Stay sharp by taking advantage of any opportunity to go on a podcast or present at an online summit. Review your performance when the interview or presentation is released by the host, take note of what you can improve, and do it better next time.

READ ALSO: I Hate Hacks

4. Create credible content

Content is the linchpin for everything I’ve talked about here—earned media, local awards, chances to present. The first thing gatekeepers like editors, producers, and event organizers will want to know about you is whether you’re a credible expert in your category.

That’s why I always say this to my private and mastermind clients: Create the content you want to be known for.

Start with posts and videos on your own media, and then branch out. You can post your best articles at Medium, publish guest posts on friends’ sites, and then shoot for platforms like the PTDC, where your articles will be seen by your peers and are easily searchable.

Already past that point? You can consider writing a book. There really aren’t any barriers to entry, since anyone can self-publish on Amazon’s CreateSpace platform. The question you have to ask yourself is whether it’s worth the time and effort it takes to write, edit, and promote a book, especially balanced against all the other things you could do with those limited resources.

Writing a book for a publisher is a different calculation. For one thing, it means your book will be professionally designed and edited, at no cost to you. But even more important, it means you’ve been chosen by a series of gatekeepers—an agent, an editor, and the people whose job it is to assess your book’s potential.

Remember what I said earlier about how there’s no advantage for editors and producers to feature “some nobody off the street”? That’s true 100 times over for a commercial publishing company. Their jobs are on the line every time they say yes to a book, especially when it’s by a first-time author.

They aren’t just looking at your manuscript. They’re looking at you. They’re looking at the size of your audience, the quality and volume of your content, your reputation in the industry, how you present yourself on social media. That’s in addition to everything else I’ve mentioned already: the media you’ve earned, the awards you’ve won, and the stages you’ve appeared on.

Before they give you what you want—status and prestige that sets you apart from your peers—they need to know if you have what they want.

READ ALSO: Lessons from a First-Time Fitness Book Author

Final Thoughts

It’s safe to assume your clients already consider you an expert.

But it takes more than knowledge, skill, and experience to become an expert in the eyes of people who’ve never met you, much less worked with you. For that, you need to be resourceful and persistent. You have to differentiate yourself in ways others haven’t yet considered.

Moreover, you have to continue to be resourceful and persistent. As soon as your competitors see you featured on the local news, or read about the awards you’ve won, or see you onstage at a fitness event, you can bet they’ll start hounding the people responsible for each of those things.

The advantage of being a recognized expert is that it gets easier each time. Each appearance or award or opportunity sets you up for the next one. You remain the leader in your category, ensuring that others remain far behind.

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[giantsfootball0]

Fantasy Football Weekly: Bucs-Vikings

Hurricane Irma took out one of my fantasy football leagues.

Due to scheduling conflicts, that league wasn’t scheduled to draft until Friday, September 8, a day after the NFL’s 2017 schedule began in New England. That’s not ideal, but it was only night we could all do it. Or so we thought. With Irma bearing down on Florida, league members were scattered understandably focused on matters of greater importance. We had no choice but to shut down the draft, and nobody really wanted to try to reschedule.

Now, please understand: This is not a complaint. In the grand scheme of things, canceling a fantasy league was probably about the 46 millionth most important effect of Hurricane Irma. That might even be overstating it. But it happened, and as a result my buddy and I were left with an open Friday and a league-sized hole in our fantasy lives. So we hastily hatched a plan to join a public Yahoo league together and that night spent a couple hours drafting online with a bunch of people we don’t know.

And you know what? That might be the best team I drafted this year. (And, yes, that is partially a knock on my other draft efforts.) Like the Buccaneers’ own season, that league didn’t start until the NFL’s second week. Like the Buccaneers, I adjusted. Like the Buccaneers, I dominated my first game. Fantasy football is a game of non-stop adjustments. If you don’t keep up with what’s going on from week to week, you’re probably going to fall behind. I’m hoping I can help you with that – albeit from a narrowed, Buccaneers-only perspective – with this year’s Fantasy Football Weekly series. So let’s get down to this week’s issues, and see where we might need to adjust

**

Accountability Section: This season, each Fantasy Football Weekly article is going to include a review of the previous week’s advice to see if it was actually helpful. Just like the Buccaneers probably won’t win every game this season, neither do I expect to have a perfect record of advice-distribution. That said, we’re both off to good starts.

Advice #1: Unless you don’t have a better option, it’s probably better to wait a week or two before starting Cam Brate or O.J. Howard. Of the two Brate was probably a better play.

Review: Nailed it. Each tight end played a lot of snaps (65% for Howard, 54% for Brate) but each was also targeted only three times. Brate had the slightly better line, with two catches for 24 yards.

Advice #2: Yes, you should pick up and start the Buccaneers’ defense against Chicago as a streaming option.

Review: Double-nailed it. The Buccaneers forced four turnovers, had a pick-six (the Holy Grail of Team Defenses in fantasy) and only allowed nine points. The single sack was a bit of a disappointment, but it didn’t stop the Bucs from being the highest-scoring fantasy defense in Week Two by standard Yahoo scoring.

Advice #3: Be hesitant about starting Jacquizz Rodgers against Chicago even though it’s one of only three games the Bucs will have without Doug Martin.

Review: Not great. My saving grace here is that I wasn’t totally against it, I just advised caution. And that probably would have been good advice based on Rodgers’ 67 yards and his 19-10 carry split with Peyton Barber. However, Rodgers did score a touchdown, so that turned into a nice 12-point day.

Okay, let’s see if I can at least bat .667 again in Week Three. (Admittedly, it helps when you pick your own questions to answer.)

**

Three Burning Questions: Buccaneers at Vikings

1. Given that the Buccaneers only allowed 20 rushing yards to a good running team in the Bears, should I consider sitting Minnesota’s Dalvin Cook this week?

Let’s be clear: I’m not trying to give myself a softball with this question. Based on what Cook has done in the first two weeks, most fantasy owners with him on their team are going to start him every week. This question is aimed more at those fantasy owners – which are probably in the minority – who have enough running back depth that there is a reasonable option to Cook on a week-to-week basis. In other words, if you have the option to be cautious with Cook this week, should you be?

READ: Scouting Report: Minnesota Vikings

Well, no offense to the Buccaneers’ great run defense, but I think not.

First, consider the quarterback situation in Minnesota. The Vikings may get starter Sam Bradford back, but since he’s limited in practice this week one could reasonably assume he won’t be at his most mobile on Sunday. In that case, the Vikings would likely take great pains to try to establish the run to keep the heat off Bradford. If he can’t go, the backup is Case Keenum, and while Keenum has a very good track record against the Buccaneers, he is presumably somewhat less effective than Bradford or he would have been the Day One starter. The Vikings would probably like to lean on the running game with Keenum in there, as well.

There is also a chance that the Buccaneers’ starting middle linebacker, Kwon Alexander, will miss Sunday’s game with a hamstring injury. Rookie Kendell Beckwith filled in very well for Alexander after the veteran was hurt against Chicago, but the Bucs would surely be better off if both Alexander and Beckwith were on the field for run downs (Beckwith started on the strong side before moving to the middle).

And you know what teams do when their rookie running back starts out the season hot, fulfilling all of their hopes that they have added a dynamic new weapon to the offense? They ride him. Think Cadillac Williams in 2005. Cook has averaged 17 carries per game so far. Last year, Dallas rookie Ezekiel Elliott averaged 20.5 carries in his first two games, then 24 per game over the next four outings, all 100-yard performances. Jordan Howard looked so good in spot exposure in his first two games for Chicago last year that the Bears then gave him 54 carries over the next three weeks, which included two 100-yard games. The Vikings have to love what Cook has done so far and they will want to do everything they can to keep him in a groove.

So Cook is going to get his touches. That’s nearly a guarantee, barring injury. Will he be able to do anything useful against the Buccaneers’ defense? Well, keep in mind that 20-yard rushing-defense games are real outliers. The Buccaneers could have a very good day against Cook and the Vikings offense as a whole and still give up 80 or 90 yards to the rookie back. A good example: The Buccaneers swamped Chicago last year, 36-10, but Howard still gained 100 yards. If I owned Cook and if (this is a REALLY big if) I wasn’t rooting for the Buccaneers in a real-life sense, I would start him, expecting him to get a decent-but-not-great yardage total and hoping he could score at least once to put him over the top, fantasy-wise. Personally, I am definitely NOT hoping for that, and if I had Cook on any of my teams I would sit him this week on principle. But that doesn’t mean you should.

2. I drafted DeSean Jackson in the seventh round as my third receiver, and I started him last Sunday in my flex position over a third running back. That only got me six points (in a PPR league). Should I double down and start him this week, too?

Boy, these fake questions are getting long-winded. Anyway, I chose the seventh round for that question because Jackson’s ADP in Yahoo fantasy has him at about a ninth-rounder, and I figured Buccaneer homers would probably draft him a few rounds before that. Even if you got two very good receivers in the first six rounds, adding Jackson as your third pass-catcher gives you another option for the flex spot and for bye weeks.

The issue, however, is that Jackson has always been something of a boom-or-bust fantasy option because a lot of his value is tied up in his big-play touchdowns. He has always been better at creating those than any other receiver in football, but they don’t happen every week. In his first game as a Buccaneer, Jackson was the target on two relatively long touchdown passes, but both were near misses. Even one of those would have turned his Week Two fantasy production from lackluster into very helpful.

So in some ways, starting and sitting Jackson is always going to involve some guesswork, unless you simply leave him in the lineup and take the good (fantasy) games with the bad. My guess for this week: Boom.

Minnesota has a talented secondary with two Pro Bowlers in Harrison Smith and Xavier Rhodes. However, through two games the Vikings have allowed 534 passing yards and three touchdown tosses and haven’t picked off a pass. That has something to do with facing Drew Brees and Ben Roethlisberger, but Jameis Winston is another dangerous passer with a good array of weapons. Minnesota’s rush defense is excellent, and I think this may be a game in which the run game will need to take to the air to keep the chains moving.

WATCH: Buccaneers Gameday Preview, Week 3

Rhodes is the Vikings’ top corner, and he’s 6-2, so it’s reasonable to believe he’ll be following Mike Evans around all afternoon. That would leave Jackson on Trae Waynes, another good corner who doesn’t quite have the same Pro Bowl pedigree as his teammate. And as good as Smith is at the safety spot, his best trait is stopping the run. The Vikings defense has already allowed six completions of 20 or more yards in two games.

Jackson got seven targets in his first game as a Buccaneer, and a lot of those were, surprisingly, underneath throws. While Jackson is always a threat to turn a short catch into a long run, I believe the Buccaneers’ ideal game plan will be to send him farther downfield more often. I’m counting on a concerted effort to do so in Jackson’s second game, and thus a good chance he comes up with one of those big plays. No matter what else happens, if Jackson catches, say, a 50-yard touchdown pass, that’s already a good fantasy day.

3. Is Nick Folk becoming a viable fantasy kicker option? Should I hurry to pick him up before the other Bucs fans in my league do?

Well, Folk was certainly a good option in Week Two, his first game as a Buccaneer. He made all three of his field goals and added two extra points against the Bears. If your league gives four points for FGs in the 40-49 range and five for field goals over 50, that was good for 14 points. By that scoring method, only three kickers were better in Week Two: Pittsburgh’s Chris Boswell, Tennessee’s Ryan Succop and Miami’s Cody Parkey.

You know who enjoyed those 14 fantasy points? Practically no one. Folk is owned in just 2% of Yahoo fantasy leagues. Two percent! San Diego’s Younghoe Koo is owned in 4% of leagues, and he’s made exactly one of his four attempts.

Just about any kicker can be a valid streaming option in any given week, unless his team’s offense is absolutely putrid. So this question is more about whether or not you should give up on the kicker you drafted and try rolling with Folk for all or most of the season. There’s probably no need to do that if you drafted someone like Matt Bryant, Dan Bailey or Stephen Gostkowski. But maybe you’re worried about somebody like Blair Walsh or Adam Vinatieri because their teams’ offenses have struggled, or maybe you’re one of those 4% who still owns Koo. I’d say Folk is a fine replacement option. I don’t think we know enough yet to believe he’s the best available option.

One thing in Folk’s favor: You’re not going to have to worry about a bye week. The Bucs are playing straight through, baby! Also, Tampa Bay’s offense moved the ball well but struggled in the red zone in the preseason, and that was pretty much the case against Chicago, too. The Bucs had five red zone trips and ended up with two touchdowns. That’s pretty much the recipe for a lot of field goals. Banging home a 50-yarder was also a positive sign for Folk. That should give Dirk Koetter confidence to use him in long-range situations.

I’m just not sure if all of that adds up to a need to rush and beat your league-mates to sign Folk. As with the Brate/Howard situation last week, I would suggest waiting a little longer to see how it plays out. It’s entirely possible that the Buccaneers become a very efficient red zone team, which would make Folk a little less valuable.

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