#i told her “oh yeah i think i heard that he betrayed the rest of these characters or something in the game they're from”

[sunshinerainbowsandlollipops]

Secret Santa gift for @marauding-almond! Merry Christmas and Happy New year! I hope you like it <3.

If you find a typo, please let me know so I can change it

"This year's been wild honestly," Sirius said, lazily throwing a leaf into the black lake and leaning back on Remus’ chest. It floated for a few moments before a bird nearby pecked at it - probably thinking it was food. The poor bird. 

"It really has," said James, "I mean if you had told me we'd be sitting here, at the Black Lake, with Slytherins, I don't think I would've believed it."

"I still don't believe it," Regulus grumbled, laying his head on Barty's chest. Barty laughed and Regulus smiled at the sound, revelling at the feeling of knowing that it was him who had caused it. 

"Ok, well if we're all naming things we can't believe, I have to say, I can't believe how long it took for those two to confess and get on with it," Lily said, nodding at Remus and Sirius, though it was really unnecessary. Everyone could tell who she was talking about. 

"She's right. Though to be fair, it took them about 5 years to realise their own feelings towards each other. Let's just be glad they got past THAT before 6th year," Peter said.

"You know, I can't believe we never figured out who charmed all the Slytherin banners in the common room to turn into Gryffindor banners. That was so long ago and still no one owned up to it," Regulus mused. Remus and Peter shared a look.

"Oh yeah that was us," Remus said casually. Sirius and James both sent him a confused look. Sirius spoke.

“No it wasn’t.”

“Yeah, it was me and Peter. You two were at quidditch practice, we saw James’ cloak, we were bored and thought why not?” Remus explained casually, not even looking up from where his hand was stroking his boyfriend’s hair. Barty on the other hand, looked ready to jump up and strangle both Peter and Remus. Thankfully for them though, Regulus was on his lap, so Barty had no choice but to stay put.

“IT WAS YOU TWO THIS WHOLE TIME? I spent ages trying to figure it out! I thought it was Evan sleepwalk-talking or something! I feel so betrayed!”

Remus and Peter burst into laughter. James and Sirius, after getting over the shock, joined them, patting them on their backs and praising them. Lily looked at the four boys with amusement (though Peter saw how her eyes lingered on James just a little bit more than the rest) while Barty and Regulus sat almost helplessly, still looking like they were trying to fit the puzzle pieces together. Evan looked a bit mortified, and it took Peter a while to figure out why but when he finally did…

“Wait, hold on, can we go back to the part where you said something about Evan sleepwalk-talking?” Peter said, still holding back laughter. Evan dropped his head into his hands, resigned to his fate. Barty and Regulus exchanged an seemingly exasperated look - but there was a slightly wicked gleam to it.

“Oh you know. Evan has this habit of sleepwalking, but sometimes he talks too. It leads to…incidents,” Barty started off, speaking louder than he really needed to, like had to make sure everyone heard.

“Yeah. Barty, remember that one time he accidentally cast an aguamenti charm and completely soaked himself in water? It looked like he had wet the bed!” Regulus picked up Barty's cue, also speaking louder than needed. Evan interrupted, finally having decided that he wasn’t having any more of this.

“Ok yeah, but remember that time at the end of 5th year- so last year I mean- when I accidentally walked into Barty’s bed and you thought he was cheating on you and you got so angry that you didn’t talk to us for a month? Even after I explained?” A smug look replaced Evan’s mortified one as Regulus coloured crimson and Barty smirked at him.

“Wait, was that why Regulus started talking to us? Because he thought you two were, you know, betraying him or whatever and I was the only other person in the school he knew? I suppose we have Rosier to thank for bringing us together then” Sirius jested. If it was even possible, Regulus burned a darker red.

“Ok haha very funny we should go back to the New Year’s party now.”

Peter saw the look of surprise on everyone’s faces - Regulus? Go back to a party? But everyone knew not to push him. Still no one moved, content to spend the night there, talking, laughing.

“We really should go back though. People are going to wonder what we’re doing,” James said, standing up and extending a hand to Lily. After a moment’s hesitation, she took it. A suggestive smile played on Barty’s lips at James’ words, but whatever he was going to say, he decided against it and pressed a kiss to Regulus’ head, urging him to stand up instead. 

As the eight of them trudged back up to the castle, James and Lily hung a little back, behind the rest of the group. Peter had a feeling he knew what they were talking about so he slowed down, waiting for them to catch up.

“What’s wrong?” he asked when they did. James and Lily shared a look and sighed, both turning their heads right to look at Peter. 

“Well, we want to kiss at midnight, but everyone’s going to know if we do,” James explained. Peter nodded, his earlier theory being confirmed.

“Right. Remind me why you don’t want anyone to know about your relationship again?” 

Peter was the only one who knew after he accidentally walked in on them kissing. That…was an interesting day, though it was not entirely unexpected. He supposed he had thought James would’ve told his friends straight away, and finding out he hadn’t had surprised him more than anything else.

“Because it feels so new and fragile and delicate. And honestly, it feels nice keeping it to us for now. Like our own secret. Of course, when we’re ready, I would shout it out to the whole world. My girlfriend is amazing!”

The two shared a loving look and Peter smiled at their affection. They made a good couple.

“Alright, well if I say that I don’t want to be kissed… and Mary has her boyfriend of course…Marlene and Dorcas…then Remus, Sirius, Barty and Regulus are already taken… and you two make sure to be together in between people who are already kissing someone… we can make it look like you two had no choice but to kiss each other,” Peter thought out loud. It was a very bad plan, but he knew no one would pay too much attention to it.

James broke into a smile and, after checking to see if anyone was looking, pressed a quick kiss to Lily’s forehead.

“See this is why it’s a good thing Peter knows, darling.”

“I suppose it is,” Lily sighed happily, clearly content with Peter’s plan, however vague it may be.

As they got closer to the Gryffindor common room, the Slytherins of the group held back as Sirius said the password (they had learnt to do so when Sirius had accused them of being spies a year ago). When the portrait swung open, Peter was immediately invited to the sound of laughter, music and chatter.

James walked in first, immediately being swallowed by the crowd. Everyone followed him in and started to mingle. Peter, as usual, made a beeline straight for the stairs to the dorms. They provided him with the best people-watching point since it allowed him to be above everyone else. A quick glance at the giant magical watch hovering in the middle told him there were five minutes till midnight. He supposed he should go find Lily and James to make sure they were in the right spot in a bit.

Quickly scanning the crowd, he found James laughing with his arm around Sirius, who was seemingly telling a very funny story. He found Lily not far from him talking to another Gryffindor girl, stealing not-so-furtive glances towards her boyfriend. He quickly scurried down the stairs to find his friend.

The crowd was dense, which meant he really had to shove people out of the way to get anywhere, but Peter had always been good at slipping through cracks. And honestly, it was always fun squeezing between the people; he would catch the most interesting snippets of conversation. Wrinkling his nose at a particularly squealy ‘he was so good last night!’, he finally reached James and tapped his shoulder. James turned to him and smiled, but Peter just grabbed his elbow and said, “It's nearly midnight.” As soon as James heard that, he grabbed Sirius’ arm and pulled him along too. He navigated James to Lily and then took them both to where he had seen Remus and the Slytherins (all lurking in the shadows like ghosts) and made sure to strategically place James and Lily in the middle.

As the minute closed, Peter saw everyone's conversations dwindle and every head turned to face the clock in the middle of the room. It had been a wild year, Peter thought to himself. A lot had happened and he found himself realising that he was glad he got to be a part of it. All of it. As the clock started counting down the seconds from 10, people joined in, counting out loud.

“10!”

Regulus and Barty shuffled further into the shadows - if that was even possible.

“9!”

Sirius pulled Remus out of the shadows.

“8!”

Peter saw Marlene and Dorcas rush down the girl dormitory stairs and mix in with the crowd. They had lost the two before they had decided to go down to the Black Lake and decided that if the couple wanted to find them, they would know where to go.

“7!”

“6!”

“5!”

Pandora, who had been missing for most of the party (something to do with New Years nargles? Peter wasn't sure) came and stood next to Evan, who wrapped an arm around his sister’s shoulder.

“4!

James and Lily shuffled towards the centre.

“3!”

“2!”

“1!”

The room exploded with “HAPPY NEW YEAR” and laughter and colour as people shared a kiss, shook hands, exchanged hugs. Peter smiled as he saw James holding Lily close and Evan and Pandora locked in an embrace. Which lasted for a total of 2 seconds. Evan let go and quickly pinched his sister’s cheek before she had a chance to do anything to him first. His friends came closer, surrounding James and Lily since they had been in the middle. Barty grinned.

“Finally managed to pull Evans, Potter?” 

Lily scoffed.

“Please. I just felt bad for him. Imagine not having anyone to kiss on New Year’s!” she said. “Unless of course, by choice,” she added apologetically, looking at Peter, Evan and Pandora.

Peter shook it off with a wave of his hand.

As a floating plate carrying drinks passed by the group, they each took one glass. Sirius lifted his in the air and said, “To Remus Lupin, for finally accepting himself.” 

And so they began their yearly tradition of toasting each other on New Year’s. Someone would start by toasting someone, whoever they chose. Then that person had to raise a glass to someone of their choice next. Since Sirius had toasted Remus, Remus spoke.

“To Lily Evans, for surviving another year putting up with James.”

“To Peter, for always being there for any one of us.”

“To James - He knows why.” 

“To Barty, for making my brother’s brother slightly less miserable!”

“To Regulus, for finally realising he’s a human! With emotions!”

“To Evan, thank you for bringing my brother and I close again. But if any of you tell anyone I said this, I will deny it - Or worse!”

Chuckling, Evan raised his glass last.

“To all of us! For finally realising that surprisingly enough, we make a good bunch of people!”

[clowd009]

my phone died so I couldn't send it sooner but the last 2

[thomine]

limbo

cyno x reader, 900 words :: general audiences, dialogue heavy, hurt/comfort, physical wounds, death of a minor character, reposted, not proofread.

notes: work tag

“hey, cyno?”

“…”

“are you… there?”

there’s shuffling of feet.

“are you alone?”

“yeah.”

“…what’s the matter?”

“well… i heard from the matra the case was complex and dangerous, so i’m glad to hear you’ve returned.” you swallow the word ‘safely’.

“yeah,” a pause. “it was one of those that required more time, more risks.”

“you would only be gone for at most a week.” you force a laugh. “it was a long month of silence.”

“that’s expected. a matra’s work is no fun and games.”

“and… uh, i also heard that… you ended up—”

“that’s enough.”

“…”

he clears his throat. “i’m sorry. i didn’t mean to—” a deep breathe followed by a shaky exhale. “maybe now isn’t a good time.”

“let me say it, please.”

“…your curiosity is dangerous.”

“it is not curiosity. it is concern. you got hurt, cyno, and you expect me not to care?”

“…”

“when will be a good time?”

“…”

“the doctors told me you’ll need your rest. i guess maybe i am pushing it.”

“wait—”

“…yes?”

“what else did you hear? from the matra.”

“they’re innocent. i couldn’t get answers from you so i approached them.”

“unless i see a reason, you won’t have to worry about me punishing them.”

“they told me things with good intentions. they’re also worried for you.”

“…i’m aware. tell me still.”

you sigh, a hand clutching the other. “your coworker… no, your friend did this to you, didn’t he?”

a dreadful silence. then, a pained hiss.

“cyno? do you need the doctor?”

a breath is taken in through gritted teeth.

“no—just, a small mistake on my part.”

“don’t touch the wound.”

“sorry. instincts. no need to worry about me. rather, have you been drinking water? you always forget.”

“i get plenty of reminders from others,” you laugh, almost authentic.

“good.”

another silence, but gentle.

“it’s not the same though.”

“what do you mean?”

“it was different when you did it. seeing your gruff and serious face saying such kind words… i always found it funny.”

“is it really?”

“for the record, i missed your jokes. tighnari was all like ‘good riddance at least we have peace and quiet’ and i proceeded to carry your legacy.”

“want to hear another one?”

“you spoil me.”

“what’s left of a sumpterbeast when the beast dies?”

“…meat? horns? materials!”

“no. you leave it stumped.”

“…” but you laugh anyways. with your whole body. lungs filled with cheer.

“…why did you come alone?”

“collei and tighnari couldn’t come today, so i’m here to pass the medicine they wanted to give you.”

“is that all?”

“i bought more gifts! deyha gave some bandages. it’s also apparently really tight. that helps with blood flow, but i’m not sure if you can wear it just yet—”

“…”

“—and alhaitham told me to give you this—oh, they’re chocolates—not sure if they still taste good… it has melted a fair bit. then—”

“…”

“—there’s candace who sent her blessings, and nilou who gave you a trinket! it was used in a folktale to bring good luck. she says when you’re ready, she’ll host a celebration for your recovery. it’ll be within us, and maybe even the dendro archon will come.”

“…”

“why?”

“…why?”

“why didn’t you want to see them? i know it hurts to have been betrayed. you… surely don’t think we will, do you?”

“it’s not that. betrayal means nothing if all acts are weighed and brought to justice.”

“is it really nothing? the matra told me you returned with his dead body. you wanted a proper burial. you could have died too, trying to bring his body back.”

“what else did they tell?”

you inhale. “other than your wound, nothing else. cyno, i hope you’re not going to push us away.”

“it’s not that.” there’s a low growl. “… i just need some time for myself.”

“i understand. i’ll leave the gifts out here then. is there anything else you want to say before i leave…?”

“…my friend was mind controlled.”

“i see.”

“he didn’t deserve the death i gave him.” the atmosphere is tense. it’s hard to breathe. “when i’ve rested enough, i have this case to solve.”

“…rest…” you sigh and shake your head. “you’re not letting yourself mourn.” you place a hand on the door. “i’m sorry.”

“there’s nothing you have to be sorry about.”

“it wasn’t your fault either.”

“maybe i was too haste to pass judgement, but what’s done is done. his blood is on my hands.”

“cyno,” you breath out, like a drowning person letting out the last bubble. “you are only human.”

“…”

“promise me when you leave for your next case, to investigate on those who unfairly used your friend, that… you’ll come back safely.”

“i cannot promise that, but i will do my best.”

“that is enough.”

“…do you still want to see me?”

“that’s why i’m here, right?”

“huh, thought you were just acting as a delivery guy.” a dry chuckle.

“well, i’m that too.” you weakly laugh, lying your head against the door. “it must be hard dealing with it alone, but we’re all here for you, through the gifts we bring and the prayers we offer… i’m here too.” you press a hand on your heart.

there is a click.

“i’m coming in,” you say as you slip yourself through the door left ajar, careful of the items on the floor. it closes before you can catch a glimpse of him, but the familiar warmth that wraps you is enough to quell your uncertainties.

author's note: an old piece! from an old blog! hello! i wrote some author's commentary so i guess that'll be up next. i have not looked through this nor the commentary. this is raw. i wrote this to practice dialogue. might actually do more!

[duskrosecreatesstuff]

A Lesson Learned

As a research assistant at the University, you are determined to take a look at a very rare book in the possession of Professor Astarion. You get more than you bargained for.

So yeah, it had to happen sooner or later, that I'd dip my toe into writing some Professor Astarion smut. Heavily influenced by this delightful piece - and seriously, go follow if you're not already, her Astarion renders are gorgeous!

Professor Astarion / Reader. 2.1k words. Read on AO3.

CW: NSFW, Explicit, Slight power dynamic, Inappropriate use of desk space, Semi-public sex, oral sex, PiV sex

Astarion pushed open the door to his office, and paused as he realised it was not empty.  He raised an eyebrow as he looked at the person standing at his desk, struggling to open a very particular book.  Of course it was that one.  Had Gale really stooped so low in his jealousy of it, that he had sent his research assistant to try and borrow it?  He closed the door behind him with a soft click.

“Did Professor Dekarios send you to snoop at my books?”

You jumped.  You’d been so focused on trying to open the book, you hadn’t heard the door open. Astarion noted with appreciation that in your surprise, you gripped the book tighter, and didn’t let it fall.

“No!  I wanted to ask you about it.  But you weren’t here, and it just-“

“Jumped off the shelf and into your hands?”

Astarion crossed the room, and took the book from you.  He placed it behind him on the desk and turned back to you, resting his weight against the edge of the desk.

He caught himself smiling as he looked at you.  Such a pretty thing, he thought as you stood there, glancing around nervously, with your cheeks flushed and heart racing from being caught. He could have some fun with you.  But first, he needed answers.

“Now.  Please explain to me why you were trying to open this book.”

“I thought it might be useful for my own research paper.  Look, I’m sorry. I was curious, that’s all.  I’ve heard of the power in those pages, I only wanted a quick look at it, I swear!”

“Do you understand what that book is?”

“Yes, Professor. It’s ‘The Necromancy of Thay’.”

Astarion sighed. “And in all your research, you hadn’t learned that the book wouldn’t obey you?  You should know it’s tuned to the one who commanded it first.  And that would be me.”

You looked past him at the book on the desk he was leaning against.  The glowing amethyst keystone on the cover pulsed, taunting you.  Damn him.  Damn his forbidden book, and damn his handsome face staring at you. Damn that fitted sweater hugging his broad shoulders, and draping down to his waist and oh gods please stop thinking about how good he looks, you told yourself.  You could feel the heat simultaneously rising in your face, and pooling between your thighs.

Your thoughts were racing, and you chewed your lip nervously.  Best to get yourself out of this situation, before your body betrayed you. “I’m sorry.”  You repeated. “I apologise for rummaging through your books without your permission.  It won’t happen again.”  You turned to leave.

“Wait.” he stopped you.  You glanced back at him, meeting his piercing eyes as he looked at you thoughtfully.  “Don’t run off just yet.”  You turned back to face him, curious.

Astarion gave another deep sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose.  “I have no wish to stifle your curiosity.  But there are powers in that book that are beyond most.  Some days it still defies my attempts to read it. But perhaps …”

He trailed off, tilting his head to look thoughtfully out of the window, inhaling deeply through his nose, as if catching a delicate scent in the air.  Your perfume, perhaps.  And … something else.

“Perhaps we could come to an arrangement.  A favour in return for that ‘quick look’ you covet so highly.”  His eyebrow raised as he turned his head back to you.

Your heart leapt as you looked up, hopefully.  “I’ll do anything.”

“Anything.” he repeated, his lips curling upwards, his crimson eyes holding yours. “Well.  You are clearly hungry for knowledge.  I wonder what else you might hunger for.”

He shifted against the desk, widening his stance somewhat, as he dropped his eyes downwards.  Your gaze followed his, and your eyes widened as you noticed the outline of his stiffening cock through the soft fabric of his trousers. You glanced back up at him, lips parted as you realised what he was offering.

“Only if you are willing, my dear.  You can walk away now, and this conversation never happened.”  His voice became soft, sultry. “Or, you can stay, and I can give you a taste of what you want most.”

You ought to have been embarrassed at how quickly you answered.  But he was offering everything you desired.  This was more than temptation.  You wanted this.  You wanted him.

“I am willing.” you whispered, nodding. “Please.”

“Well then,” he purred. “On your knees. Darling.”

You dropped like a stone, as he tugged at his belt buckle.  You reached forward and brushed his hands away.

“Allow me.”

He put his hands up in mock surrender, and gave you a devilish smile.  “So eager.”  He dropped his hands to rest either side of his hips, lightly gripping the edge of the desk, as he leaned back a little, giving your hands all the room you wanted to slide the leather through the buckle.

You leaned in close, breathing in a lungful of that scent that was so specifically him, that you’d been entranced by for weeks now, before pressing your lips against the fabric, a cheeky little kiss.  Your nimble fingers popped the single button, and you tugged the zip, sliding it carefully down all the way, fingertips brushing lightly against his rapidly swelling cock.  You bit your lip as you hooked your fingers into the waistband of his underwear, pulling the fabric down to free him completely.

You gave a small smirk as you looked up, catching his eye as he stared down at you, parting your lips and leaning in close to lick slowly up his entire length.

“Good girl.” he whispered, one hand moving to stroke through your hair.  You licked again, dragging your tongue from balls to tip, pressing your lips to the smooth head in a lingering kiss, as you wrapped the fingers of one hand around his shaft.  You parted your lips and slid your head down, swirling your tongue over him as you opened your mouth wider.  You felt his fingers tighten in your hair and you paused, listening to him panting softly.

You moved your head again, squeezing your fingers around his solid cock, angling him so you could work him deeper into your mouth, sucking on him gently as you slid him deeper and deeper, until you felt him touch the back of your throat.  You pulled back, breathing deeply to calm your gag reflex, moving your tongue over the tip of him again, tasting the salt of his pre-cum.  You shifted on your knees, aware of how wet you were, and how soaked your underwear was becoming, and wondered how it would feel to have him deep inside your dripping cunt.

He gripped your hair, more forcefully this time, and tilted your head back to look up at him again, this time with your mouth wide open.  He moaned at the view of his cock head resting on your tongue.

“Oh, you are an absolute delight, my sweet.  And to think, I underestimated just how hungry you might be.  I think you deserve something more. Stand up.”

You obeyed, and he snaked one hand around your waist, pressing against your back to pull you in close.  The other was back in your hair, pulling you into a crushing kiss, his tongue as deeply between your lips as his cock had been moments before, searching, tasting himself on your tongue.

The hand on your waist drifted lower, lifting your skirt and seeking out your soaked underwear.  You felt him smile against your lips as his fingers brushed against the fabric.

“You know, you’d be much more comfortable with these removed, don’t you agree?”

He didn’t wait for an answer, as he hooked a finger in the waistband and tugged sharply downwards, dragging your underwear down to your thighs.

“Go on. Get those off for me, my dear.”

You dropped your hands to do as he requested, shimmying your hips a little to drop your underwear to your ankles.  You stepped out of them, and kicked them off to the side.

“So obedient.  Such a good girl for me.”  You let loose a small whimper at the praise, and another, slightly louder, as his cool fingers brushed against your inner thigh.  You subconsciously adjusted your stance, parting your legs for him and felt those same fingers press between your slick folds, pausing as they found your entrance.

“Please.” you whispered, your thighs trembling in anticipation.

Astarion smirked at you. “Please?  Please, what, darling?”

Your cheeks burned, and you looked down, unable to meet his piercing eyes. “Please.  Touch me. I need-”

Your voice was cut off by your own loud gasp as he plunged two fingers into you.  You gripped his shoulders to keep your balance as he pumped them slowly out and back in.

“Losing your balance there?  Can't have that, can we.” He pushed himself off the desk and you gasped as he dragged his fingers out of your heated core, grazing them up and over your clit as he stepped smoothly around behind you.  You barely had time to register his hands on your hips, before he gave you a sharp shove towards the desk.  You collapsed forward over the smooth wooden surface, and felt the brush of fabric over your skin as your skirt was lifted out of the way.  You felt his foot nudge against your ankles, a wordless demand to spread them farther apart, and you obeyed.

You felt cool fingers on your ass, spreading you open, and the teasing slide of his cock between your dripping folds, coating himself in your slick, brushing against your clit making you whine.  You felt the head of his cock pressing against your entrance, and you couldn’t stop the whimpering “please” that slipped from between your lips.

“Oh, aren’t you such a needy little treat.  Beg for me again, would you?”

“Please.  I want you.  I want to feel you inside me.”

He rolled his hips, sliding deeper and deeper into you with each thrust, your moans getting louder as he pressed you against the unyielding surface of his desk.

“Like that, my dear?  That’s what you want, isn’t it?”

You opened your mouth to reply, but all that came out was a needy moan, as he pulled back, then thrust deeply into you again, matching your moan with his own.  He picked up his pace, moving his hips faster, the wet sounds coming from behind you filling your ears, the same way he was filling you.  You arched your back to him, and you felt a hand reach around you, searching for your most sensitive spot, drawing a squeal from you as he found it, his fingers rubbing hard, tipping you over the edge.  You put your mouth over your arm, muffling your cries as you clenched hard around him, still moving inside you.  You felt his hips snap against your dripping cunt, as he chased his own release, his fingers gripping your flesh tight enough to leave marks.  With one last drive deep into you, you felt him throbbing against your swollen walls, heard him moan as he released himself deep inside you.

You lay there quivering beneath him, his weight keeping you trapped against the desk as your breathing returned to normal.  You felt him soften and pull away from you, and as you stood up, you could feel your combined fluids dripping down your thighs.  He reached across the desk for a box of tissues, taking a couple for himself and passing the box to you.

“Next time, I want to see your face as you come undone like that for me.”

Your heart skipped at the suggestion that there would be a ‘next time’.  He quickly cleaned himself up, refastening his trousers, looking for all the world like nothing had happened.  He circled around the desk, pausing to scoop up your underwear from where you had kicked it, before settling himself in his office chair, and tucking them away in a drawer.  You opened your mouth to protest, but he interrupted you.

“I’ll be keeping those.  I like you better without them, anyway.”

You closed your mouth again, and grabbed the tissues, doing your best to clean yourself up, as he watched.

“Now.  About the book.”  He leaned forward to pull it to rest in front of him. “You’ve certainly earned that peek between its pages.  Why don’t you have a seat?”

You moved to pull up one of the nearby chairs, but he stopped you with a sound.  

“Ah, ah.”  He curled a finger at you, beckoning you towards him.  “You’re going to sit right here.” He patted his thigh, indicating he wished you to sit in his lap.  You gave a soft moan as you settled yourself, his arms reaching around you to grab the book cover, and his chin resting on your shoulder.

“So, my dear.” he whispered, his lips against your ear, as he opened the book. “Let’s begin.”

[historicboii]

Hello again, today i bring you another MICC verse story feat. Melody.

This is the story of how she got her name. Almost.

Basically its Andyeddie being cute.

As always many thanks to the WW2 Rpf is fine server for bringing this idea to life and thanks to all of you for reading It.

Enough about me, please enjoy : )

PASTORALE

Today was a happy day, a happier day than most in this hellhole. Nobody had died yet which was rare here in the frontlines.

Once we had found somewhere to rest, Ack-Ack climbed to a higher place, some sort of rubble. He raised his voice and adressed the men.

"Everybody, we are staying here tonight, so pick a slightly smooth stone and try to sleep".

Andy as always was glowing, with a fierce determination I though could only appear in old stories of myth or in brave knights of old.

But Andy was very much real, and he was pregnant with my child. Our child.

The though made me smile involuntarily. I thought of a home, a nice evening watching our baby, me singing in a porch with my guitar in hand and baby on the other, and Andy coming home from work. A peaceful Life. A happy life.

While some of the boys were starting to doze off, or chatting in low voices, I was so stuck in my own fantasies i didn't notice Andy walking over to me.

"What were you smiling about earlier?"

"Was i smiling?"

"Yeah you were, and im asking you what all that was about"

"Everything. Nothing. The fact you are pregnant."

"Is that all?"

I smiled mischievously and replied

"Well sometimes you need to think of a sweethart back home to make It trough this war"

"Am i your sweethart?"

You always were and always will be"

"So if im here right now, what does that make me?"

I thought, you are everything to me. My captain, my lover, my family, my future. How to explain that to him? How to explain that my entire existance was tied to his life?

Then I remembered that night back in Melbourne, when he told me that he loves me. I thought of now, of how even when he was pregnant he wanted to keep fighting. To stay with the men. With our boys.

That is what i loved about him. Thats what made Andy Andy. So thats what i told him

"You are a good captain"

He laughed quietly so as to not wake the rest of the boys. He stopped and glanced at me, a wide smile on his face.

"Ive been meaning to ask, what is that song you are always humming?"

"What song?"

"That melody, you keep singing it all day, and at night before we go to sleep. I haven't heard it before, and unless its from the japs i dont know how you can know a new song around here"

"Whats up with you today, you are asking a lot of questions"

"Maybe i just want to talk to you"

"Then you should have just asked"

"Thats what im doing now"

"Dont get clever with me now, its not a good look on you"

He must have known i wasnt really mad, and my smile betrayed my annoyance.

"Oh but you love it"

"You know i do"

"So answer me"

"Its a song im working on"

"That doesnt answer the question "

Andy kept looking at me, and we he looked at me like that I knew that I had to confess the reason for my good mood lately, and why I was singing that song, even though the thought scared me more than any battle we had fought.

But this was Andy, and he would understand. I decided to tell him the truth.

"Well," I began my explanation "In my family it's tradition that a parent has to compose a song for their newborn. I guess its something of a supperstition, we always say that as long as a song is sung then that persons memory is still alive, somehow"

"I think thats beautiful"

"Its an old supperstition "

"Its ours now, eddie, and our baby will love your song"

"Well for now our boys have taken a liking to it, and they are as much our sons as the one in you belly"

"Can i ask you a question then?"

"Sure"

"Do you think its a boy or a girl?"

"I dont really care, as long as It looks like us and its happy, well that will be ours whatever happens"

He smiled at me and i knew, i knew that i would do anything for my love and my son. I had to keep fighting so that we could all make it back home.

I had to make sure our melody made It back stateside.

[kousaka-ayumu]

Retrospectives

Warnings: Broken english

Kaida is staring at her diary, hand on her forehead thinking about Sebek's behaviour.

He's always acting strange, but now he's even mode stranger, though he's not the only one.

Ace, Epel, Minako have also acting strange too but most importantly Deuce's. Wierd, with her hearing, she should be able to know about the reasons why, but it didn't?

Now that she thought about it, there we're like 6 overblots this year, she was never there when Riddle, Leona and Azul overblot but she was there when Jamil, Vil and Idia overblot.

Not to mention Haru also acted strange, they almost tired, and she's worried for them though she never showed through her expression, she usually showed it through her body language.

Now that she thought about it Deuce was also acting strange too, she knows he liked her and she likes him too, if you ask her, she pointed to her ear.

She sigh as she finished writing in her diary and putting down her pen, she looked out the window, it was nighttime now. Looks like she's going to stay up night again how many times? She doesn't know....

The next day:

History class is over and now lunch has arrived, she sat at the table with the rest of Midnight Rose PreCure discussing their plans to defeat Ciaran secretively since they didn't want anyone to know, especially how the fairies wanted to keep the whole Precure thing a secret.

What about her? She's still a PreCure and her being one of the most experienced ones ended up being a support pillar for them, no she did not get attached to them if she did they may ended up the same way as Charlotte did. (Yeah totally didn't attached to them -_-)

"How do we deal with one of the generals?"

"I don't know!"

"Maybe we should split up."

"If we did then they take advantage of it and summoned the Minions of The Dead again."

"Maybe we should do it without them knowing?"

As they ended up discussing what plans they have, Kaida is trying to hear what the First Years(Ace, Deuce, Jack, Epel, Sebek and Minako) when she ended up hearing something that shook her "Yumeri" and "Overblot".

She realized that she forgot something. The next concert.

"Guys, have we forgot something.." She said, all eyes we're on her, her faerie which is a porcelain doll named Merria stared at her.

"What is it, Kaida?" The fairie said.

"The concert?"

And all hell breaks loose.

"Oh cheesecakes we forgot!"

"Don't worry I have the lyrics." She said as she pulled up a stack of paper, it's the lyrics for the next lyrics with the name "I Am Rain"

"Oh thank you Kaida! I will composed it today." Hokori said as Kaida handed over the lyrics.

"I'll meet you guys over for practice.. I have something to do.." She said as she leaves and her fairie followed her.

"Okay bye ٩(ര̀ᴗര́)ᵇʸᵉ!" Taiyou yelled cheerfully which unintentionally hurt Kaida's ears a little, ouch.

She ended up hearing a little bit of Sebek's voice, and before she knew it she ended up hearing their conversations and ended up in a very dark corridor of the school.

"You heard about Moonlight Bloom having a concert next week?" That's Ace's voice

"Yeah, not gonna lie, I was excited for them." Jack's voice

"It's means it's going to a perfect for another overblot!" Sebek's voice?! Her eyes widened in shock.

"Wonder who is going to overblot tonight?" Minako?! She knew she shouldn't be surprised that Minako is Lilith's daughter, yet why is this suprise her..

"Yumeri is the best choice, since she told me about her past." DEUCE?! Her eyes widened as she heard the revelation, is Deuce always like this? She thought he's going to be a great honor student and a police officer in the future...

"Heh? I never thought you be like this Deuce.." She said softly, no one heard it and left.

Sure she can't remember a lot during her time in Ninjago, and she didn't want to know about that, and is used to people dying around her, but betraying her... She wasn't used to that and it's from her crush... At least he's alive so she didn't have to worry about that.. Yet the thought of betraying someone makes her sick to her stomach..

She clutched her neon green ribbon of her uniform, feeling betrayed..

@zexal-club @yukii0nna @queen-of-twisted @yumeko2sevilla @writing-heiress @liviavanrouge @childofwitches @marrondrawsalot

[ashes-2-ashes57cba]

The Clone Wars: A Distant Echo

Part 2 of the Clone Wars Bad Batch arc with my OC: Specter! this has been edited *adla'vod: roughly translates to "twin", directly translates to "same brother/sister"

Specter felt surprised and almost betrayed when Crosshair let General Anakin Skywalker inspect his beloved rifle. Usually, he would get fussy if even she touched it. He wouldn’t even let her put her stuff next to his. 

The Bad Batch, Captain Rex, and the Jedi were on board the Batch’s ship—the Marauder—on their way to Skako Minor, following the live signal “Echo” supposedly sent out. Rex watched as Wrecker lifted a gonk droid with one hand and ate with the other. Crosshair observed as the General looked at his gun, and Hunter monitored any planetside activity at the console while Tech flew them to their destination. The female clone sat back, resting and mentally preparing herself for their next mission. 

“So, how many missions has your team been on, Sergeant?” Anakin asked Hunter.

“Honestly, sir, I’ve lost count. All the action sort of blurs together,” he admitted with a shrug.

“I know you work with Cody sometimes, but who exactly do you guys report to?” Rex asked. Hunter hummed in thought.

“Good question. Can’t say I’ve got an answer.”

“Yeah, I’d feel really bad for the one who would have to try and make sense of our reports,” Specter piped up. Wrecker laughed in agreement. “Oh, adla’vod?” The sniper turned to his twin as Anakin handed him his rifle back. “Your taste in music is weird and the songs you suggested are weird, and I love it. I’m adding them to the playlist.”

“I told you,” he said with a smirk. 

“So you’re the first female clone. How does that affect your… dynamic?” Skywalker asked, turning his attention to Specter. She raised an eyebrow.

“If you’re implying what I think you are, don’t worry about it. I’ve heard enough of the whispers. I’ve saved these boys more times than they’d like to admit, so I’m not just a pretty face.”

“What?” Anakin blushed, “N-no, like— gosh how do I say it without sounding crass?” Specter surprised him by laughing. 

“I’m teasing, General, I know what you mean. They’re my brothers and best friends. They respect me and know when to give me my space when I need it. In return, I don’t break their knees. Isn’t that right boys?” she asked aloud to her team.

“Yes, ma’am,” they replied; some enthusiastically, some with disdain. 

“However they don’t always pick up after themselves. Take Tech, for example,” she said loudly, hoping to get his attention.

“What now?” he sighed.

“Just because my bunk was empty and clean, does not mean you get to use it for storage for your projects.”

“You weren’t using it.”

“Because your stuff was on it!” Rex and Anakin snickered at their argument while Crosshair and Hunter rolled their eyes. A thud and the sound of alarms ended their argument.

“We are approaching Skako Minor,” Tech reported. “It looks to be a difficult landing.” The Marauder broke through the thunderous clouds, turbulence rocked the ship. Wrecker went to help Tech man the controls while the others strapped themselves in. 

Once they landed and everything settled, the rest of the team gathered in the cockpit.

“Rex, what do we know about this place?” Anakin asked his captain.

“On this part of Skako, there’s a race of locals, the Poletecs. All we know is that they’re very primitive.”

“‘Primitive’ is being kind. My intel says the Poletecs worship flying reptiles,” Tech chimed in. A thud and screech were heard outside the ship, almost in reply to the Batcher’s remark. A shadow of a creature scurried over the viewport.

“Oh! What the heck was that?” Wrecker exclaimed as the ship rocked and jolted.

“It’s one of those reptiles,” Tech simply answered.

“I want that thing off my ship,” Hunter growled, putting on his helmet. The Batchers followed his lead and prepared to go outside to investigate. 

“Hold on! Hold on! Don’t just run out there,” Rex warned. 

The Bad Batch ignored him, running out to the blowing winds. A creature was on top of the ship, its rider a mere silhouette against the dim golden light peeking through the dust and clouds.

“Hey! Get off of there!” Wrecker yelled, pointing his blaster at them. Anakin ignited his saber but held his arm out to the brute.

“Hey, calm down. We need to talk to them,” he said.

“Why?” Hunter gowled. The Bad Batch wasn’t used to handling confrontations with diplomacy.

“The General’s right,” Rex supported. Two more flying creatures screeched and approached fast, intently flying toward the group. 

“Heads up!” Specter yelled, crouching low. Anakin pushed Rex out of the way as one of them reached out with its claws to grab at the captain. The two flew by, but the one atop the ship jumped down and grabbed Anakin before flying away with the rest of its group. The Jedi’s lightsaber fell from his belt, Rex grabbed it before firing a few potshots at the reptile, hoping to have some sort of effect. Tech looked through his visor, tracking him.

“I have a thermal reading. Point-two-five east, elevation 175,” he reported. 

“Relax,” Crosshair said, readying his rifle and using Tech’s shoulder as a mount, “I’ll handle this.” He fired a grappling line, latching onto the leg of the reptile holding Anakin.

“What are you doing?” Rex asked as Crosshair handed Hunter the base of the line. 

“Going for a ride,” Hunter said, clipping the line to his belt before being yanked away. “Keep the boys out of trouble, Spec.” Specter crossed her arms, and yelled after him.

“Like they listen to me anyway, but sure thing.” 

The group watched as Hunter and the General disappeared into the thick clouds. Silence surrounded the group until Wrecker turned to Specter and asked-

“Should we follow them?”

“Not yet,” she replied. “We can’t be sure of any more of those reptiles hiding among the clouds. Best to trust Hunter to assess the situation before we rush in.” Her fist tightened with anxiety by her side; Hunter often trusted her judgment enough for her to lead the group when he couldn’t, but this time the life of a Jedi General was on the line.

“Tech, I’m with the General. Hone in on my signal,” Hunter’s voice eventually came through the comm. Specter relaxed her shoulders before turning to the others.

“Alright, now we can regroup. Everyone back to the Marauder,” she said, taking charge and gesturing back to the ship, following the others inside just as Tech launched the shuttle and flew to Hunter’s signal. 

They eventually touched down a ways back from the edge of a ridge leading down into the Poletec’s village. Hunter was kneeling down, out of sight, observing the scene. 

“That creature still has a hold of the General,” he reported to Rex, who went to take position beside him. Rex flipped down the antennae on his helmet, looking through the scope to assess Skywalker, Specter mirrored him, tracking each of the villagers.

“We’re going in,” he said, standing up, “but remember what the General said. ‘No casualties, disarm only’.” The reminder was emphasized towards the Batch with a few pointed glances. Wrecker shook his head and slumped in dejection. 

“We’re on it, Captain,” Hunter stood up before giving orders. “Wrecker, Crosshair, rockslide!” The two went to push the large boulder nearby down the ridge and into the village. As it rolled, Wrecker shadowed behind it, using it as cover, while Crosshair stayed behind to take a sniper position. The rest of the team followed suit, shooting to disarm the natives as they scrambled away. Crosshair shot an electric probe at the leg of the creature holding Anakin; it flew off from the shock, allowing the Jedi to roll out of the way of the boulder. Hunter pointed his pistol at the leader of the Poletecs; it spoke its language at him, waving his arms about. “Tech, translate what he said?” 

“He says he does not want our war on his planet. That is why he took our leader,” he relayed, reading the translation off his visor.

“We didn’t bring the war here,” Anakin said, “it was Wat Tambor and the Separatists.” Tech went to translate, doing his best to mimic the Poltec dialect. The chieftain looked between him and Skywalker.

“Tell him we apologize for what’s happened,” Rex stepped forward. “But tell him the enemy is holding one of our men prisoner in Purkoll. As soon as we rescue him, we’ll leave this planet, for good.” Tech nodded, turning to the chieftain and relaying the information. 

Specter couldn’t help but giggle; Rex noticed her shaking shoulders and nudged her side. 

“Hey, what’s so funny?”

“He just sounds so robotic. He’s not even attempting to follow through with the accent,” she explained. 

“Could you do any better?” Rex asked. She scoffed.

“Give me a day and I could even learn the local dialect, Captain. If it helps put things in perspective, I learned Galactic Sign Language in a week.” 

“Wow, Specter, is there anything you can’t do?” Rex wondered.

“Yeah. She can’t reach the high shelves,” Crosshair sneered. His twin stomped on his foot. 

The Poltec leader and Tech continued to speak back and forth in what looked like apologies and negotiations. 

“The chief says he’ll provide us with scouts and lead us to Tambor’s city. From there, we’re on our own,” he reported to Anakin. 

“Any help is better than no help.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The two scouts led the team to a rocky outlook with a clear view of the city, or at least the spires hanging down from the clouds. One pointed towards the city and said something in his language; Tech thanked them before they went to return to their village. 

“Hope nobody’s scared of heights,” Anakin said with a smirk. Crosshair, Hunter, and Specter turned to look at Wrecker, who perked up at the attention.

“Well, I’m not scared of nothing!” he assured, unconvincingly. He glanced down the cliff rock, however, noting the height. “I just… when I’m up real high, I got a problem with gravity,” the brute admitted.

“Speaking of problems,” Tech spoke up, “I am no longer picking up Echo’s signal.”

“I don’t understand,” Rex said, surprised, “you said it was coming from this city.”

“I can only speculate, but it is possible there’s a latency issue with the frequency caused by all these atmospheric disturbances,” Tech said, holding up his datapad.

“Or… maybe they sent the signal to lure us into a trap,” Hunter speculated. “And maybe your friend’s actually dead. Well I can’t be the only one thinking of that.”

“But if a clone can come back from the dead, then nothing could stop me from being completely unhinged,” Specter fantasized.

“Look, every mission could be a trap. This one is no different,” Rex argued against Hunter. “I’m telling you that signal is being sent by Echo himself! He’s alive!”

“I think you’re letting your personal feelings get in the way because you left him for dead at the Citadel,” Crosshair sneered, turning his back on the captain. Specter tilted her head back in exasperation. 

“I had no choice. You hear me?” Rex said, his tone dark and on the verge of anger.

“Oh, I don’t blame you. I would’ve left him for dead too. Besides, he’s just another reg.” 

Specter didn’t blame Rex, nor did she try to stop him when he punched Crosshair to the ground. 

“Hey!” Wrecker grabbed the captain by the back of his armor. “Why don’t you pick on someone not your size?” The brute threw him off, but Rex turned right back around and marched up to him.

“You’ll be a whole lot smaller when I’m through with you,” he growled.

“That’s enough!” Anakin ordered, pushing the two men apart. “Sergeant, take your men and scout the area for a tower entrance. I want to talk to my Captain alone.” Hunter motioned for the Bad Batch to follow him, Specter helped Crosshair stand up before smacking the back of his helmet, scolding her twin for his insensitive comment.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The wind howled, blowing golden dust. Specter shifted her stance again, trying to ignore the itch of sand up in her armor. The Batch did their best to peer through the sand and guard the entrance of one of the towers leading up to the city while Tech worked on the door panel. Hunter sensed someone coming, holding up his gun in defense. But it was Skywalker and Rex running to meet them.

“We’re in business, General. Tech regained Echo’s signal,” Hunter reported, shouting over the wind and walking him towards the entrance. “It’s coming from this tower. How’s it going, Tech?” The clone had his datapad hooked up to a console, quietly working through algorithms and firewalls to get past the door. After pushing a few buttons, he was able to gain access.

“Sorry it took so long,” he replied with a shrug. 

“Hey, twins, check it out,” Hunter nodded inside. 

“Ah yes, the noble sacrifices,” Specter slumped before holding up her blaster and following Crosshair, sweeping the inner room for any traps or cameras. They found nothing and turned back to the door. 

“Yeah, it’s a lift,” Crosshair deadpanned.

“How magical,” Specter feigned wonder.

“Well, we already knew that,” Rex said, unamused, walking inside with the others. Wrecker nervously looked up at the tower, most of it disappeared behind heavy clouds. 

“Wait, wait, wait. A lift? How far up are we going?” he growled.

“Don’t worry, Wrecker. I’ll hold your hand,” Hunter teased. 

“Hey! Cut it out, Sarge,” Wrecker said, bumping past Hunter’s shoulder, “Just give me some droids to crush.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Remember, this is a stealth mission,” the General said as the lift neared the top, “no blasting, no blowing things up. Nobody knows we’re here.”

“Pff, don’t count on it,” Specter muttered, collapsing her blaster’s stalk and preparing her pistol. The door opened to a group of droids who abandoned their tasks, turned to the intruders, and readied their weapons. Wrecker dashed out, crashing into the ones closest, throwing one at another group near the back and swinging another at a few near the opening. They fell with robotic screams.

“I told you!” Specter said before running out to the fight with her squadmates. Anakin could only shake his head with a smirk. She fired alongside Tech, covering the corridor that led inside the facility. A pair of droids snuck up behind them, separating her and Tech. Specter let them corner her against some crates; once they were right where she wanted, she jumped up and pushed off against the crates—over the droids’ line of fire—knocking them down with a split kick. A shot flew past her shoulder, striking a lone droid attempting to charge at her; Specter looked up to find Crosshair fired the shot, she returned the favor by blasting a droid approaching behind him.

 Wrecker charged at the remaining droids, firing relentlessly and cheering from the adrenaline once they were victorious. Everyone simply looked at him.

“Uh… sorry. I just got excited.” Specter came around and patted his shoulder while Tech checked his scanner.

“I’ve still got a lock on Echo’s signal.” 

“All right, men.” Hunter readied his blaster and led the way to the corridor. “Let’s hunt some droids.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Droids on patrol marched through the hall, though they didn’t detect the door opening and Hunter peeking out. He motioned Specter forward and nodded; they stepped out, he shot the droids entering the area while she destroyed the ones that passed, clearing the way for Skywalker to step into the hallway. 

“Where exactly is Echo’s signal coming from?” he asked Tech. The clone adjusted his goggles as he looked at his datapad.

“Strange. I just lost the signal.”

“What? How can that be?” Rex asked, removing his helmet. “There’s no ‘atmospheric disturbances’ up here.”

“Well, I have a new theory. I’m surprised I did not consider it earlier,” Tech shook his head. “The signal is only traceable during data transmissions. So until Echo dispenses more intel, I cannot pick up the signal.”

“Okay, we’re splitting up. Search every door,” the General began to order, “If someone finds Echo, contact the others. We go in together, just in case there’s trouble.” Specter and Crosshair split with the General while the others went down the other way. She found nothing in the doors she checked, only storage containers and maintenance supplies. 

Specter had a very hard time believing a clone like Echo could have survived the attack on the citadel, but she knew if it was one of her squadmates, she would be just as adamant to rescue them as Rex was. But like Tech, she was logical enough to know that the chances of Echo actually being alive were low. But not zero. 

A commotion caught her attention: muffled blaster fire and a lightsaber. The clone ran towards Anakin, configuring her blaster into a sniper rifle; she got there just in time, shooting down the droids before they could attack again. The Jedi stood up, calmly walking towards her.

“Thanks for the backup.”

“No problem, General,” she said, giving a two-fingered salute.

“Hey, where did you get that weapon? I don’t think I’ve seen anything like it,” he asked as they walked down the hall.

“I doubt you would’ve. Tech and Crosshair designed and built it after I saved them on a mission from Corellia… and took care of them when they caught Corellian fever,” she snickered.

“You didn’t have to mention that,” Crosshair hissed, coming up beside them.

“Too late, Cross,” she teased, patting the side of his helmet. He swatted her hand away. “But I was the one who helped engineer the reconfiguring mechanism.”

“Clever,” the Jedi complimented. 

“Don’t let it get to her head,” Crosshair warned.

“Hey, how about when you— did you guys hear something?” Specter stopped herself, suddenly perking up. The others heard it too; sounds of droids and blasters being fired. 

“Sounds like trouble. Let’s move,” the General ordered.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It seemed the three had arrived just in time to even the odds against the droids attacking the rest of the team. Anakin used the Force to push a group out of his way, swinging his lightsaber to cut them and deflect their shots. Hunter took the opportunity to go on the offensive, Wrecker, Tech, and Rex joined in. The Sergeant held up a droid by the neck, ready to punch its head off, but Crosshair came in and shot it off for him. A whistle sounded, Specter came running in, taking a position by Wrecker.

“Hey, swing me around,” she said.

“Like on Mon Cala?” he asked, shooting a few droids.

“What? No, like on Ryloth.” They hooked their arms around each other and he spun, swinging Specter around to shoot and kick at the rest of the droids near them. The Jedi stabbed the last one. “Mon Cala… you didn’t swing me, you threw me. Underwater,” Specter mumbled. More blaster fire filled the hallway, even more droids were coming. The team took defensive positions in the side of the room. 

“Tech, open that door for Rex!” Anakin ordered over the noise. 

“Yes, sir!” Tech nodded and ran to take care of the door.

“I hope you find what you’re looking for, Captain,” Hunter said, turning to acknowledge him. “Specter, you’re with them.” Rex and Specter ran to meet Tech who was able to get the door open and enter the room. It was filled with dimly lit panels and other controls. 

“I don’t like the look of this,” Specter heard Rex say— her back was turned, keeping an eye on the door and their other surroundings. 

“I’m definitely picking up a life-form in there,” Tech said, his scanner beeping in rapid succession. He investigated the controls, “It seems to be a stasis chamber. I think I can get it open.” Specter looked over her shoulder, Tech worked at the control panel and got the chamber open. 

The door hissed open and a form fell forward, only caught by the wires attached to—him. It was a body. Malnourished, disfigured, but a clone’s body nonetheless. Specter stifled a gasp at the sight. 

“Echo,” Rex breathed. “Tech, we’ve got to get him out of here. Figure out how to…  unplug him from… from this mess.” Rex frantically undid the line around his torso, laying the body down onto the floor, cables were still attached to Echo’s head. “What have they done to you?” Specter abandoned watching the door and turned to go help Rex, who had taken off his helmet.

“We… we have to get to the shuttle to escape the Citadel,” the soldier muttered. His eyes were open but unseeing, skin sickly and pale, body emaciated and drawn. Both his legs and his right arm were replaced by cybernetic parts.

“He’s stable, but blood sugar is low,” Specter reported, removing her helmet and taking out a small flashlight. She shined it in his eyes, they were dilated and unfocused. “He’s in there but barely. Hallucinating. Oxygen in his brain must be low too, his heartbeat is irregular.” She felt his pulse on his wrist and by his neck.

“No! I’ll go first,” Echo continued in his hallucination, reaching out. Rex gently shook him.

“Echo,” he pleaded. “Echo, it’s Rex. I’m here.” The pale clone calmed down, his eyes came into focus.

“Rex? You, you came back for me,” he breathed, reaching to touch Rex.

“Yes. Yes, I did,” Rex assured. 

“What? What happened? Where am I?” Echo looked around.

“Yeah, he’s coming around alright. It’s okay, soldier. You’re safe now,” she assured.

“Just sit tight, Echo,” Rex said, “You’re going home.”

[urne-buriall]

so I remember the outage at Kate in this update the first time around. she's a nurse and should know better than to tell John what Dean said, especially when Dean is stuck in this very isolated place with him. and that's all true, she should know

but we don't know how exactly the conversation started. there's just one clue for us: Dean's been working in the barn for some time before he decides to pick up the phone and call Cas. he hasn't heard the phone ring, or he might wonder about the line being in use

this tells us that John called Kate, not the other way around

the rest below a cut because it's what I think, but it's not in the text for a few reasons, and as is my calling, it just makes things complicated with no black or white resolution

John called Kate. not because he knows anything has gone on, just to have a chat. his kid just stormed out and it's time to work on his other family, where he can start fresh. (Sam called it in his last scene. he's astute that way.) but this means Kate's plan to take some time and think about everything she just learned goes out the window. not ready to talk to John, she probably tried to get off the line, but he needled. picked up there was something off and tried to ask if there was some issue between them (with Sam walking out, a statement of failure on John's part, he's not gonna play the loser twice in a row)

not wanting to draw attention to the fact that there IS an issue, maybe she thought she could be clever. confirm the truth of the surprising things Dean told her. maybe she started by asking about Sam, thinking she'll catch John in a lie. and oh, Sam, he's gone back to school, yeah, they start early there. has John said how proud he is of that kid, how he could get into any college in the world from here? and Adam will be a smart one like Sam, no doubt about it, and go to a smartypants school too, or whatever school Kate wants him in. it's hard when the kids are far from home but at least Dean's stayed close by and John's always got him for the farm, he's invaluable for that

and this is. not what she expected. during her visit, they seemed like such a put-together household, which is what John is reflecting now. which is not what Dean said over the phone. and I think she's still cautious, but now she's confused, and she tries asking another canny question but she slips up. it wouldn't take much to trigger John's suspicion, and he has one goal, which is: don't lose Kate

and he says he can tell something's the matter and she tries to say there isn't and that's when we get into the kind of back and forth where John is playing to his strength. hell, he'd even offer to hang up and give her some time, but in a way that now she's the one apologizing (just like Dean apologizes in another scene, when he isn't the one who should be saying sorry). and when he asks what's changed she admits she had a strange call from Dean and she doesn't know what to make of it. she still doesn't intend to say anything about the content of that call, but John knows enough. he knows what to ask, what to plant, what to make her question Dean's motives until she is revealing more and he's twisting up her doubts and reflecting them back and insisting Dean's story doesn't add up, which, maybe it doesn't? and this is confusing, upsetting, she doesn't know which way is up, and John is just so certain. has an explanation for everything

by the time the call is ending she's just agreeing with everything John's saying because he's shot down every single other point so efficiently that it seems there's no purpose in searching for exhausting counterarguments with him. and she's confused and defeated. and once she hangs up, she knows less than when she started. she doesn't know if the sick feeling in her stomach is worry that Dean was telling the truth and she's just betrayed him or if it's the distaste of Adam having a half-brother, one he's met and adores, who's a sociopath that would make up anything to keep her away. she's stuck between two realities because she knows someone is lying to her very well but can't tell which one

she doesn't speak to John again, letting his calls go to voicemail. if she thinks about making a tip, she doesn't know who it will help or hurt. a week after this, she gets a call from Dean at a different number. she is partly relieved to hear his voice because she's been concerned she got it all wrong, but also unsure at the start of whether she'll be hearing another fabulation to keep her away

Dean's not looking for sympathy or an apology or any of that. he's not calling to accuse her or even tell her directly of her role in that final fight. he just says that he wanted her to know he's pressing charges with the police, here's the case number and this is Jody's extension, and that if Kate and Adam would like to set up no-contact orders it wouldn't be a bad idea and they could piggy-back off Dean's case. he's applying to be Sam's legal guardian, and he doesn't have a fixed place to stay yet but here's where to write or call. that if it's alright with Kate, he'd like to stay in touch with Adam, even if what they share is a rotten dad

she knows, then. she puts the pieces together and I think that guilt plagues her. she apologizes, desperately apologizes and tries to explain, and Dean goes quiet. then says he knows what his dad is like. he always believed John too. it's not an "I forgive you" but it's a sense of commiseration. he wouldn't wish John on anybody, and everything that happened was done by John, not her

[ddlcpoly]

MC and Monika walk into the clubroom, I look down at my desk, I sneak a glance towards Yuri, looking up at her, I feel bad when I see her, but if I ever want to talk to her normally again I have to do this. I think back to that night, that day was fun and I felt free that day to be honest, as free as I had felt in a long time, that’s probably why I did something so stupid. All of my clubmates are hot, ok, I said it! Not only that but they’re all so nice and caring and good to me. I think I’m in love with all of them, I don’t know, at least I think I find them all attractive and I want them to be with me for the rest of my time. So a few months back I was hanging out with Yuri when we just kinda leaned on each other and it lead to us kissing, so we started dating from there, but i always knew that I didn’t ONLY love her, but I kept myself quiet, I have a beauty Big Tiddy Goth GF and amazing friends, why risk it all for something so greedy?

But in the festival, me and MC kinda got lost and I sprained my ankle, after I stepped on a crack some idiot hadn’t filled out that day, so he carried me to a bench nearby, from there he started helping out my ankle, I jokingly told him “You kinda look like a servant washing my royal feet. Fitting for someone like you.” and he quickly replied “If it was you I wouldn’t mind that.” I think it was something that he just said without thought, cuz he then quickly shut himself up, I start blushing “Dummy, don’t say that kinda stuff to me” I bonked his head with my fist “Uh, yeah, sorry. I didn’t mean it.” “What do you mean ‘you didn’t mean it’” and blurted out by accident “Uh, I, um, I mean.” “Uh, oh, um. Dude you’re just embarrassing yourself.”

I don’t know why I did that, I just hated the situation we were in and so I just instinctively started insulting him, but then he stood up, it looked like he had tears in his eyes “What do you want for me?!” he yelped pathetically “I want you to stop making me fall further for you!” I blurted that out as, well and then I quickly shut my trap. He seemed at a lost for words for the few seconds I saw his face, as I quickly hid mine. I faintly heard him say “I feel the same.” I turned up towards him, confused and disgusted, to be frank, “YOU PERVERT!” I yelled out at him, then I quickly sucker punched his cheek and ran away.

The group eventually found me. They found MC first sitting on the bench that I left him at and he told them where I went, eventually catching up to me. I didn’t speak to him about it and since that night I couldn’t really face anyone at the club.

I did some reflecting and I think that when I called MC a perv I was also calling myself one, we’re both the same, two losers with loving girlfriends that fucked up by falling in love with other people. I don’t think I can ever forgive myself.

I feel a hand placed on top of mine, then I realize that a tear was rolling down my cheek, I see whose hand it is, Sayori looks at me with an empathetic smile. She was the one who called everyone here, so explained to me that Md told her that we basically confessed to each other the morning after the festival… Who am I kidding? We LITERALLY confessed to each other. I feel kinda shit right now, the girl who I hurt by being a greedy little asshole is here holding my hand with her delicate fingers. How could I deserve being friends with her, let alone think that she might like me? I feel dirty, disgusting.

“Hey, it’s alright.” Sayori calmly states. “But it’s not!” I yell out, MC and Monika stop in their tracks and Yuri sadly looks at me as Sayori keeps that smile to try and comfort me. “I did something shitty and I was lying to Yuri all throughout our relationship.” I feel my eyes start to well up. “I don’t deserve anything!” “NATSUKI!” I hear Yuri yell out my name “P-please don’t say that. It’s true that you made a mistake that night, but I also did something that betrayed your trust and I am truly sorry, but I still love you and I like to believe that I know more than anyone else that you are someone not only worthy of love, but someone who I desire to love for ages to come.” I stop crying for a bit, I’m about to retort her, but she starts talking first “Even so, I am aware of both my feelings and yours, that we don’t only desire to love each other.” my eyes widen “Wh-what are you saying? Wait. Are you implying that?” she starts blushing like a tomato, hiding her face in her hair.

“That’s why I want all of us to come here. I think we should all talk about what we all feel, no lies, no half-truths, no judgment and no guilt. We can’t keep hiding these feelings from each other and keep them causing us pain.”

Monika and MC sit down, “I agree.” Monika pipes up “Whenever you’re ready Vice-President.” Sayori takes a deep breath.

2/4

[kazscrows]

Six of Crows Reread 🪶

Chapter 22: Kaz

Immediately started off in a sad Kaz flashback

The Razorgulls stole his boots! That’s so mean! I wanna fight them (ง'̀-'́)ง

“The city is winning so far. But you’ll see who wins in the end.”

The next morning, Jordie woke with a fever.

Heartbreaking

They had no money for medicine or a medik, so they huddled together in a pile of broken-up wooden boxes that they dubbed the Nest.

I’m crying but I guess Kaz has always had an affinity for birds

Jordie died while Kaz was asleep…

Kaz thought of the little wind-up dog, of drinking hot chocolate on the bridge…

…Kaz expected to wake in the next world, warm and safe, his belly full, Jordie beside him. Instead, he woke surrounded by corpses.

Oh it’s so awful-

Do you think it was the firepox that gave Kaz his rough voice?

Vengeance was waiting, vengeance for Jordie and maybe for himself, too.

Brick by brick, right?

He’d heard there were sharks in these waters, but he knew they wouldn’t touch him. He was a monster now, too.

Oh this is the quote that probably made me relate sharks with Kaz

He had to live. Someone had to pay.

Pekka Rollins needs to pay…

But yeah this is what I mean by his hope being tainted by revenge

Back in the prison wagon Kaz is suddenly nine years old again and drowning

Gosh I can’t believe he was only nine

He was ice cold and in darkness. There were bodies all around him, pressing against his back, his sides. He was drowning in corpses.

Inej’s voice brought him back though. Pulls him from the “waters”

Well her voice and the fact that she repeatedly jabs him in the thigh

Inej would never betray him. He knew it. Kaz felt ill. Though he’d trusted her with his life countless times, it felt much more frightening to trust her with this shame.

He hasn’t been vulnerable since he was nine

Kaz felt himself drawn towards her voice like water rolling downhill.

Some very good Kanej this chapter

Honestly I love that Kaz and Inej think of each other to help them overcome their challenges

Laziness wasn’t as reliable as greed, but it still made a fine lever.

Kaz and his leverage

Kaz watching Inej get led away with the other female prisoners and not realizing that he’s feeling panic at seeing her go at first

That’s good stuff right there

I bet Nina noticed his heart speeding up

It’s interesting hearing Kaz describe the tanks as large wagons before he knows what they are

Just you wait bud..

Inej had once offered to teach him how to fall. “The trick is not getting knocked down,” he’d told her with a laugh. “No, Kaz,” she’d said, “the trick is in getting back up.”

Yes you read that right

Kaz Brekker laughed and maybe it wasn’t exactly mocking

But really this is a good lesson she’s teaching

You have to learn to get back up again

That’s the trick to falling

Learn how to come back from it

Just the memory of Inej’s voice gives him strength

Kanej 💕

I wonder how much lighter Kaz’s hands are compared to the rest of him…

Probably not that much since the man constantly wears suits but still

Maybe his wrists are just slightly more tan?

It’s not important just a random thought..

Kaz knew the word for cripple in plenty of languages.

This scene is burned into my brain

I dunno I just like watching Kaz fight people

Even when reeling with thoughts of his past and barely functioning because of his touch aversion Kaz can and will rip your arm out of socket

No one is stealing his boots today so to speak

Helvar came up beside him. “Was that really necessary?”

“No.” But it had been – to make sure they were left alone to do what needed to be done, and to remember that he wasn’t helpless.

Kaz Brekker always has a reason

First | Previous | Next

[lifetimeshipper]

The Wolf-Con and the Cadet

Chapter 15

---------------

Steeljaw headed to where Saberhorn was, all the while thinking about what Strongarm had said. He knows that it will take time and effort to earn her trust again, but he will do it. He's determined to.

"Hello, Steeljaw," Metalsound greeted.

"Oh, hi Metalsound."

"You okay? You're looking a little blue."

"I'm fine, just a bit out of it."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

"I'm just trying to understand Strongarm. But I know it's gonna take time to earn her trust again and I'm determined to do it," Steeljaw replies in a low voice so no one can hear him.

"Trust is a hard thing to earn once it's betrayed. All you can do is give her some time and space to think."

"Yeah, you're right. Well, I need to be going. Saberhorn wants me for something."

"OK, good luck," she called after him as she left. She was going to have to check on Strongarm.

Unlocking the door, Metalsound made her way into Steeljaw's room, locking it behind her. "Strongarm, you awake?"

Strongarm turns around and looks at her, "Yeah, I'm awake."

"I brought you some Energon in case you didn't have anything yet."

"I haven't actually," she says as she sits up and takes the Energon cube.

"I'll have to take that when I leave. I ran into Steeljaw, he's upset but he also seems to be determined to win your trust again. Try not to be too harsh on him."

"What do you mean he was upset?"

"He just looked like he was defeated in a battle."

"Really?" She asks starting to feel bad.

"Yes, I know that you're still hurting but so is he."

"I know. It's just going to take time."

"I know it is. But you can't stay here, it's too dangerous for both of you. Give me a few days to think of a plan."

"Alright. What will happen to Steeljaw if the others find me here?"

"I'm not sure, but they won't find you," Metalsound replied as she heard the Mini-Cons working nearby. "I think I have an idea. Are you finished with the Energon?"

Strongarm gulps down the last bit before handing the cube to her, "Yeah."

Metalsound took the empty cube and headed towards the door, "Get some rest," she told the cadet as she left locking the door behind her. Strongarm sat there thinking things over.

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

Steeljaw walked onto the bridge where Saberhorn was, "Yes, Saberhorn. What do you need?"

"You seem to be spending quite a lot of time in your quarters lately. Is everything alright?"

"Just fine. I find I can think better when I'm alone and lying down, I'm hoping it will help me figure out how to crack the code to the Decepticon Hunters faster," he says with a sense of coolness.

"As long as you can get them out that will be more than enough. Would you mind looking for Metalsound? I would like for her and Glowstike to get something. I know it seems odd to send Glowstike but she and Metalsound need to learn how to work together."

"I will look for her and tell her. Anything else?"

"That's all. Thank you, Steeljaw."

Steeljaw turns and walks out, he goes to look for Metalsound and Glowstrike to tell them the news.

Metalsound was observing the Mini-Cons when she heard someone approaching from behind, turning her helm she saw Steeljaw. "Hey, feeling any better?"

"I came to tell you Saberhorn has a mission for you and he wants Glowstrike to go with you, he said he wants you two to learn to work together."

Metalsound let out a displeased growl, "Do I have to?" She whined quietly.

"Afraid you do."

"Darn it, I can't stand her."

"I know, just try to."

"Try to what?"

Metalsound jumped back onto Steeljaw when she heard Glowstike's voice behind her. "Work together," Steeljaw says while pushing Metalsound off him. "Don't jump on me like that, Metalsound."

"Sorry, she came out of nowhere," Metalsound huffed.

"And who wants us to work together?" Glowstrike asked clenching her teeth at the thought of working with the wolf Predacon.

"Saberhorn. He said he wants you two to go on a mission together because he wants you two to learn to work together."

Glowstrike had a sour look on her face as she looked at Metalsound, she couldn't believe she had to work with the glitch that stole Thunderhoof away from her. Metalsound was just staring at her with annoyance. One of the Mini-Cons had been watching them as he worked, he could feel the tension between the two femmes.

"You two better get going."

With a groan, Glowstike headed for the hangar doors, glaring at Metalsound as she passed. The dark femme growled softly as she followed. The two set off and Steeljaw headed back to his room.

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

Metalsound stared ahead of her as she flew through the clouds, doing a few loop-de-loops to liven things up for her. Neither one of them spoke the whole time, then they reached their destination. "What are we supposed to be looking for anyway?"

"Come to think of it, Steeljaw didn't really say."

"Great," Metalsound mumbled as she landed on the ground. Staying in her beast form she sniffed at the ground looking to see if any of the Autobots had been there yet. She caught onto a trail and with a growl, she stared into the nearby trees. "We got company."

"Autobots?"

"Yep."

Drift was hiding behind a nearby tree as the two Decepticons landed. :: Do you recognize these two Decepticons, Windblade? :: He asked through his comlink.

:: Not a clue. ::

Scanning the forest, the wolf slowly made her way inside, "Keep a lookout for anyone else, I'll check in here."

Glowstrike walks in another direction away from Metalsound, she is actually relieved that she could get away. 

Taking to the trees, Metalsound scanned the ground. Sure enough, there was the one they called Drift. I thought he had two Mini-Cons with him. She thought to herself. Hearing something move behind her she leaped to another tree branch, "There you are," she growled softly.

"Master Drift, the Decepticon is in the trees," Jetstorm announced.

"But I didn't think that dogs could climb," Slipstream added.

"Well done," Drift said to his pupils.

"Three-on-one doesn't seem that fair," Metalsound responded with a smirk. "I like those odds." With a snarl, she lunged at the two brothers who had barely escaped her fangs.

"Master! A little assistance please!"

Drift swung his blade into the assailant's maw, hearing the creature growl as she quickly brought some distance between them. Licking her jaws she kept her optics on the Mini-Cons, no doubt they were trying to distract her so Drift could deliver the final blow. If she could get the Mini-Cons out of the way...

Blocking the red one's blade with her wing she could feel the nunchucks hitting her leg. "Is that the best you can do?" She asked sarcastically as she brushed them off of her as if they were only bugs. "Surely you can do better than that."

The other brother hits her in the other leg with his sword while Windblade jumps on her back attacking her. With the added weight the branch snapped in two, sending the four of them plummeting to the ground. Opening her wings, the Predacon took to the air, causing Slipstream to yell as he held on. Flying through the air, Metalsound performed several twists and flips in the air trying to get the seeker and Mini-Con to get off, but they kept holding on.

Tucking in her wings she dove towards the ground, waiting to pull up at the last second. The two jump off and land on the ground just as she reaches near. Once she felt the weight lift, she opened her wings when she was only a few feet from the ground sending a cloud of dust flying. Glowstrike, I could use your help right about now. She growled to herself.

But Glowstrike was nowhere in sight, she was off somewhere else watching the whole thing go down, hoping the Autobots would capture Metalsound.

"Master, what should we do now?" Slipstream looked to his master for advice while Jetstorm quickly joined Windblade who had taken to the air.

"We need to plan out another form of attack."

Metalsound let out a hiss when she saw the female seeker again. Windblade comes diving down for an aerial attack. Twisting her body, the wolf spun out of the way, only for Jetstorm to grab her tail. "I got her-Whoa!" Metalsound flew higher into the sky. Hearing a faint rumble she saw storm clouds forming, with Jetstorm still holding on she flew towards the storm.

"Jetstorm, let go!" Drift yells out concerned for his student. But Jetstorm could barely hear his master's call over the wind, slowly he made his way onto the creature's back. Pulling on her ears he tried to get her to turn back but the only thing this action had succeeded in was making her snarl in anger. She kept on course. The others watch in terror as she descends into the clouds.

Jetstorm looked in horror when he saw flashes just a short distance away as thunder boomed in his audio receptors. "Don't be afraid, little one, I got you. I just need to give you a message." The Mini-Con only pressed his face into her fur, no doubt his master would not be pleased with him.

Windblade had somehow made her way through the storm, but it was hard to locate the Predacon. She could hear a snarl just before the thunder boomed as lightning blinded her. She felt something collide with her wing sending her out of the storm and onto the ground. Transforming with a groan, she watched as the wolf-like Predacon spun in the air sending a blur of black down to the ground, "Jetstorm!"

Windblade picked up the injured Mini-Con before looking up to glare at the Predacon who was flying back into the storm. How could she just throw this poor Mini-Con down to the ground like that? Defiantly not the actions of one who was supposed to be an Autobot at one time. "Hold on, Jetstorm. I'll get you back to Drift." Windblade transformed and quickly made her way back to Drift and Slipstream.

Once she gets to where Drift and Slipstream are, she transforms, holding Jetstorm in her arms. "Jetstorm! Are you alright?" Both Drift and Slipstream ask, concerned for their teammate and friend.

"I'm sorry, Master. I should have waited for your instructions," Jetstorm replied weakly.

"We need to get him back to base, Fixit can look after his wounds," Windblade mentioned with concern for the Mini-Con. With this, they all headed back to base.

~~~~~~~~~~

Metalsound was watching from the shadows, when Glowstrike came running up behind her, "Metalsound!"

With a snarl, Metalsound turned and bit into the femme's shoulder slamming her onto the ground.

"OW! What's that for!?"

Adding pressure before she let go she snarled at the femme, "I know you were trying to get me captured!"

"Of course I was trying to get you captured! I know you stole Thunderhoof from me, I heard you guys fragging in his room and I saw the bite mark on his neck!"

"It's not gonna work, Glowstrike! Thunderhoof is mine now, so deal with it!" She snarled as she took to the air.

Glowstrike growls as she watches Metalsound fly off. Her spark breaks every time she recalls hearing Thunderhoof fragging Metalsound in his room followed by him breaking up with her because he's now mates with Metalsound. She will make Metalsound pay for stealing him from her. She transformed and flew off toward the island.

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

Chapter 1

Next Chapter

[parttimepuff]

Dear god he’s making macaroni and cheese and NO ONE CAN STOP HIM

Ah, one of the consequences of going through these in the order they come. Beep looked at the snacks, confused. "Those aren’t Mac and cheese..?" She thought, missing entirely where they were coming from. "I, made some awhile ago? I could make more if, anyone wants it, I guess?" Gremlin suggested hesitantly. "Eh…" The Matter grumbled. Food was the last thing on her mind.

"Yeah, fair." Gremlin nodded to her non-answer. "Don't really think anyone's hungry. Er, not that, the snacks aren't nice." Reverie backpedaled, not wanting to make his brother or his friend feel bad. "We… didn't really think anyone would want them." Luna responded, glancing away. "Just needed a distraction…" Beep figured. "Yeah…" The puff and Dream Demon conceded in unison.

Making eye contact with his niece, Gremlin continued. "…we're here for you. Both of you. Just, seemed like we were in the way for a bit." He explained. "I think Deeds-Dedede, probably wanted you in the way, heh…" Beep nervously attempted a joke, but her uncle didn't take it like one. "He, honestly, he seemed like he didn't." He thought. The Matter's only answer to that was to squint at him in question.

"I think he was pissed with me for making him take a break. He didn't want to leave you alone after he'd told you he believes in you, y'know?" Gremlin elaborated. "He was getting scared though, you could feel it." Beep pointed out, narrowing her eye further. "Oh he was, I'm not denying that. Just cause it was better for his health to take a break doesn't mean he can't still be mad at me for it." The Dream Demon replied. "Hmm…" The Matter hummed, not entirely sure how to feel about that.

"Don't you ever get mad at someone when they're right, but you wish they weren't?" Her uncle asked her, knowing he'd personally felt that way. "Like you right now." Beep answered, taking him by surprise. "Ah. Yeah, that's… that's fair." Gremlin conceded, sheepish. Seeing an opportunity to lighten the mood like his daughter had wanted, Reverie leaned in. "Not often that you're the one who's right, huh, Grem?" He taunted. "Harassing me." The Dream Demon quickly replied, frowning in an exaggerated way that made it clear it was for show.

"Well, what else am I supposed to do!!" Beep exclaimed, leaning into the teasing. It was better than thinking about how she'd scared the king. "Respect me as your fun cool uncle?" Gremlin proposed. "That's not as fun." Reverie expressed, his brother giving him a faux gasp at the audacity. "Whoa, Rev can be right sometimes too??" The Matter jokingly asked. "Hey, no, bully him instead-" The Dream Fae insisted.

"Join me, brother." Gremlin demanded in a theatrically menacing voice. "No-" Reverie started to protest, having to stop to laugh. "I can do both, c’mon Luna join the winning side-" The Matter turned to her. "Luna, please-" The Dream Demon begged her. The puff, who'd been enjoying seem them mess around, grinned. "Why wouldn't I join the winning side?" Luna questioned. "Pity?" The Dream Fae spoke up making her snicker.

"NO PITY POINTS FOR YOU-" Beep shouted, only making Luna laugh more. "Ha! Right, that's not enough." She agreed. "You would betray me in my own home?" Gremlin dramatically accused. "Absolutely!" Was the puff's cheerful response. "I can't believe you've done this-" The Dream Demon bemoaned before Beep raised her voice again. "My House Now." She declared. "Noooooooooooooooo." Her uncle wailed. For the moment, they could just be themselves. It was their break, too.

From another room, between deep breaths, Dedede heard the muffled sounds of the rest playing around. He sighed. She wasn't as broken up by his weakness as he'd feared she would be. And she was clearly in good hands. It was what she deserved, but she still deserved so much more. Just a few more minutes and he'd continue towards getting her there.

[v5hadow]

WIP Wednesday

Royal Strikers: Day 2 Part 3

This bit has been done for a bit... 😅 Like, outside some introductions for screen sections (which are new as of this week), these are the first things that were complete to a state I'm happy with months ago.

I just missed the last week post because I got stuck reading two fics for the past bit, as in the last 2-3 weeks. I'm like midway through Forearmed of the Forewarned is Forearmed series and just finished what's up of My Attic Roommate Goro Akechi (Romance Route). Of course, I don't begrudge other ship opportunities, in fact it makes things always more interesting. There's a few that have high chances to squick me out, and without a good reason/counter-interest, I'm not going to be convinced to even look at it. Forewarned is Forearmed is actually a good example of that honestly, as I'm apparently a sucker for Inaba!Akiras.

And like progress is being made but not in the spaces I'm expecting. Like new paragraphs or additions on parts already seen, major rewrites to things you haven't yet. Not as much progress for the main part of today's bits though. aka work skins still suck. And only some minor actual forward progress

Akira several hours later, as he settled into bed, heard one of his more distinct text tones. He very quickly got into texting back.

-

‘So while I’m thinking of it, Iwai-san told me that he’ll be closed for what will be two more weeks. A trip with Iwai-kun I believe’

‘Shit.

mean nice for them, bad for me/us

Why were you talking?’

‘No, that’s fair

Figuring out where and how to set up some new throwing targets

And getting one sharpened

I’ll see if I can find anything

but honestly with a little maintenance most of the team’s equipment should absolutely pummel anything you come across’

‘Worried if something breaks or jams’

‘If you can get Futaba to help me subtly beef up the site 

As it’s not going to be as quiet as I hoped and planned for if MV involved

I’ll contact Iwai-san about who he’d trust to look over his work’

‘Futaba likes you! Can do that without me asking’

‘I could but it’s nice when you ask.

Oh and Takemi-sensei just left for a conference that lasts most of this week and next as well.’

"Next you’ll tell me Shinya is in Hokkaido visiting a cousin or Hifumi’s got a series of matches across Japan.’

‘😈

At least one of those is true though’

‘How do you know everyone I know again?’

‘I’ve met most of them on my own

OR I met them when with you 

OR while doing PT-site work

Most of them even like me’

‘Most of them not at first but yeah they do’

‘But Shinya definitely wants to see you before you leave again’

‘I’ll definitely try’

‘💖🌅’

‘💕🌙’

-

And across the city, and even into the rest of the country, several eyes came across a post in their personal boards.

-

‘If anyone would like to help me figure out some info on Alice Hiiragi, that’d be greatly appreciated. I’ve got some rumors that a lot of fans act out if you insult her around them, even if it’s out of character for them. I don’t like the sound of that if they come here. -Admin’

‘Chalice will likely love that since she can at least write an article on it too.’

‘Yeah, totally my territory

But any help would be appreciated

The world needs the news’

-

Akira groaned as he sat up, yawning in the process.

“It’s been a while hasn’t it?” chimed a voice with some sorrow in tone.

Blue. Akira opened his eyes to see everything was bathed in shadows of blue. The slither and clank of chains sound as they change direction.

“Welcome to the Velvet Room,” proclaimed the attendant. 

Akira looked over his shoulder to the girl and breathed out, “Lavenza.”

The girl smiled, but still betrayed some hesitation. “Whether we bemoan or rejoice in this reunion, Trickster, I have duties I must perform. A greeting for guests’ first time arrival was not given by me truly and I sense something may go amiss if I do not.”

Akira lifted his hands in surrender.

“This place exists between dream and reality, mind and matter. It is a room only those bound to a contract may enter.”

Akira sat in front of the door to the cell, listening as the platinum blonde waxed lyrically on about fate and danger already apparent to the boy.

“As such, you have become a “prisoner of fate” yet again,”.

“We’ll just have to stage another breakout from fate then.”

A peal of laughter came from the attendant, before she smiled and told her guest, “I do not as greatly fear the destruction of the current path while you are in such good humor about your fate.”

Lavenza stopped right in front of the cell door, her smile dropping some. “However for my master’s sake I must ask you a question in a specific manner.” The boy in front of her nodded. “Have you the resolve to defy such a fate and face distortion that once again threatens your world?”

Akira held Lavenza’s hand through the bars, smile growing as he told her, “You know it.”

She squeezed his hand before letting go. “Now then, I shall act in my master’s stead and watch over you through your journey.”

“Your master was only really there a month, so nothing too new there.” Akira stood, looking past her at the new torture devices present.

“Go to sleep Trickster, you shall come back as you need. You and your moon need you in as good spirits as possible tomorrow.”

“‘Til tomorrow then, Lav.”

[danganronpasurvivoraskblog]

(iii)

Yeah, ok...

Alright. Where would you like to begin?

I've come to terms with what happened to Rantaro and the others that died tonight. It's exactly what I was hoping to avoid by going in alone...and it stings to think about it now, and I still feel bad about it. Same goes for Mukuro, but now she's back. She never actually died, and she's come home to support me again.

But I keep getting told the same thing. He understood what he was going into, and his death was not my fault. Shirogane did it, and I...I should simply let it go, right? Even after what I did, I don't believe he ever harbored any ill will against me. Neither did Hibiki Otonokoji. And obviously, Mukuro never did either.

I believe "forgiving oneself" and "letting go" are distinct concepts. Trying to "let go" of your guilt about Ikusaba and Amami may end in burying those negative sentiments rather than finding healthy strategies to deal with them. Forgiveness necessitates admitting mistake and actively working to repair wounded feelings and shattered trust. It is a process that may take some time, especially when dealing with yourself.

Though I'm certain you don't need me to tell you that.

I know but...I was hoping to get better advice that just "Give it time and it'll all work out."

Naegi. Need I remind you that we got out of that factory merely 3 hours ago or so? I'm honestly surprised that you're not lying face down in bed, recovering from all this.

If Kyoko and Sayaka had their way, I might be.

Hm...Yes...I imagine one or both are quite eager to get you into bed.

D-Did you just-!?

Apologies. That was a joke. I was attempting to lighten the mood amidst all the heaviness.

O-Oh...alright? That caught me by surprise. It's not like you to make jokes...

I have the talent of Ultimate Comedian as well, you know?

And that is somehow among the strangest concepts I have heard today...

Let's get back on topic. Speaking of Ikusaba, how is your connection with her now that you have been properly reuinited? Did she have any ill will towards you because of what you did?

Not even an ounce. She was happy to see me.

Then, until you have reason to believe otherwise, you should assume that she has forgiven you and want to reconcile. You have no influence over how others feel; all you can do is trust that if your loved ones have a problem they want you to solve, they will tell you about it.

Let us now move on. Let's chat about the rest of your friends. How do you feel about them?

Same as I always have done. I told myself that all of this was for their sakes. But now, I know for sure that it was for mine and mine alone...And I'm so...ANGRY...at myself for that...

I can't image how Kyoko and the others felt when I hurried off to face Shirogane and Zetsubou alone. They're relieved I'm safe, and they don't show it, but deep down, I know they're still furious, sad, and betrayed, even if they know I did it for love. And I'm equally angry with myself for all of it.

Although I can't speak for Class 78, I think it's crucial that you realize that. Those seem like reasonable responses to being left behind. Although it can be simple to shut people out in an effort to save them from suffering, those who genuinely care about you will want to be there for you through even the most trying moments. Ignoring them will just make the situation worse.

This is something that Hajime Hinata has struggled with as well. He always wants people to shine with their own talents, which is why he holds back so much. But whenever the going gets tough, he puts himself on the front line. It's difficult for his companions to figure out whether he trusts them to defend themselves or not.

Keep in mind that making amends and moping over your setbacks are two different things. It's important to remember not to let your past transgressions prevent you from moving on with your life, especially if your companions have already extended their forgiveness.

And don't forget that Junko is still out there. Even if you dedicate the next few months or so to recovery and getting your life on track, you can't block out any of the issues that are still prevalent in the world.

I won't, trust me...But honestly, after everything that happened tonight, that's why I'm so scared...

I'm not the Ultimate Hope anymore. I don't deserve that honor after what I've done. But as I am now, how can the meager Ultimate Lucky Student go up against a titan like the Ultimate Despair?

That's easy. Ask for help.

I get that, but this rivalry between me and Junko has ran deep for almost 15 years now, even long after her death. I can't burden anyone else with-

Yes. You CAN.

Ultimate Hope Therapy.

...

*Shortly after his conversation with Kuripa and Mukuro, Makoto strides down the hallway of the Future Foundation to the Branch 7 department. Towards Miaya's office for some consultation.

...

*There's some chairs outside the office door, which Makoto finds locked, so instead, he sits down on one of them, patiently waiting.

...

You're going to be waiting for a while...

BAH!?

*He falls off his chair as Izuru Kamukura suddenly almost teleports next to him.

Ugh!? K-Kamukura!? Wh-What a surprise, I...thought you went home.

No. Akane and Mahiru want to spend a little more time with the others. In fact, we're debating whether I should be brought back to that house or not. It is quite homely there though, so I believe I will.

That's good to hear.

Are you here to visit Gekkogahara? I must warn you. You may be the only person here, but her waiting list is at least a mile long. It might be a while before she gets to you.

Oh...Right, that makes sense actually. A lot of people were traumatized after the things they had to see today. I guess it makes sense that she'd be busy.

She's doing a group session right now. I'm sure she wouldn't mind you joining in.

No, no...This is a lot of personal stuff. I can wait.

...

Naegi...

Yeah?

Would you mind terribly if I was the one you consulted?

Huh? You!?

It may be easy to forget, given my disposition, but I also have Miaya's talents of therapy, consultation, and psychology. Besides, I heard that you'd already sought help from her once before, and clearly, it did not work out.

That was because I was a bad patient, not because she was a bad doctor.

Not saying I'm against the idea...but why ask me that?

I don't know...It just feels like something that a friend would do. If Hajime was here, I'm sure he'd jump at the chance to help you.

...I'm sure he would...Alright, I'll take you up on that then...

——————————————————————

*Izuru escorts Makoto to a private room. He randomly pulls up two chairs and sits them facing one another. They then both sit down, and Makoto stares shiftily at his new therapist.

...

...

...Ok, this feels a little awkward....Where am I even supposed to begin?

You don't need to feel threatened by me. If it comes to it, just imagine me as a life-sized doll that you can vent your frustrations to.

But if you're having trouble getting started, let me suggest we begin with something simple. How are you feeling right now?

Exhausted, and in a lot of pain. I got light treatment for the injuries I suffered in my fights against Koime and Celeste, but I need a follow up appointment to get properly treated. It's just there's a long list of high-priority patients ahead of me.

In fact I'm fairly sure I shouldn't be walking around like this...I'm worried that if I sit or lie down, I'm not gonna be able to get up for the next two days.

I'm sure you'll manage. You're stronger than you think. But if exhaustion is all that's weighing on your mind right now, then I believe that's a good thing.

[katethewriter]

That Would Be Enough

Summary: Natasha is not happy to be sent home early from a mission. When she returns to a surprise, will all of those feelings fall away? (Basically, I saw Hamilton live and have been thinking of this ever since.)

Pairing: Natasha x Reader

Words: 850

Warnings: slight angst, mostly fluff, Natasha is upsetti-spaghetti, pregnant!reader, gp!Natasha, NO SMUT, Natasha had a penis for genetic reasons, oh yeah! and more fluff

Inspired by the song That Would Be Enough from Hamilton

The door opens and the sound of keys dropping on the table echoes through the apartment.

Heavy footsteps betray Natasha's frustration. She was nearly seven months deep into an undercover mission, when she was pulled and sent home without an explanation. She tried to fight Fury on this with no luck.

She sulks into the home that she shares with her wife, Y/n.

Y/n heard her the moment she walked, and anxiety filled her when she heard the keys hits the table. She rounds the corner to meet her wife in the kitchen. She waits in the doorway, awaiting her wife's reaction.

Natasha hears footsteps behind her and takes a deep breath. Despite her agitation, she doesn't want to lash out on her innocent wife. She forces a smile and turns to greet her, but she instantly halts when she takes in the sight of her wife.

Her pregnant wife.

She stares in shock at Y/n's swollen stomach. Eventually the assassin forces her eyes to meet her wife's, "how long have you known?"

"A month or so," Y/n tries to shrug, but her wife's gaze flits down to her stomach which looks about ready to pop. There is obviously no way, Y/n found out a month ago.

Natasha looks back to her wife incredulously.

Y/n relinquishes with a heavy sigh, "six mon- seven… seven months. I found out a week after you left." She holds her breath for her wife's response.

"Y/n, you should have told me."

"I wrote to Fury a month ago," she tries to reason, "I asked him to send you home when the time was right-"

"No, you should have told me!"

The pregnant woman takes a step back. She knew her wife would be shocked by the news, maybe a bit upset, but now she sounds angry.

Her tone puts Y/n on edge, "it was a no contact mission-"

"There are ways, Y/n," Natasha paces back and forth in the kitchen, "you know there are ways-"

"I'm not sorry, Natasha."

Natasha turns away from her wife. She leans against the counter and hangs her head.

Y/n stands resolute, "I knew you would stay until the mission was completed-"

The widow shakes her head and whispers, "that mission isn't done."

"I also know that every mission comes with a risk," Y/n pulls Natasha's shoulder until they are face to face.

"A chance that you won't come home, and I couldn't risk that any longer. Not now." She cups her wife's face with her hands, trying to raise the widow's gaze to meet her own, "all it would take is one piece of bad intel, one stray bullet and you never get to meet your son."

Natasha's eyes finally meet Y/n's, "son?"

Y/n smiles and nods. She leans forward to rest her forehead on her wife's. The widow's hands come up to caress the swollen stomach ever so gently.

"It's a boy?" she asks reverently.

Y/n releases a breathy chuckle, "yes love."

All of the tension between them seems to fall away as they both bask in each other's presence.

Natasha lowers herself to her knees, so she is face to face with her wife's swollen stomach. "Hello baby boy," she smiles and presses her lips to the bump, "you don’t know me yet, but I'm your other mom."

No sooner had the words left her mouth that she feels a push against her palm. Her eyes go wide with wonder, and she looks up to Y/n with a grin.

"He knows you. I played videos and voice recordings of you every day so he would know your voice," Y/n strokes the widow's cheek.

Natasha's eyes fill with tears. She quickly stands and pulls Y/n into her arms. She captures her lips with her own. "I love you," she whispers when she pulls away.

“I love you,” Y/n fully relaxes for the first time since she found out she was pregnant.

Guilt grips the widow. She thinks of the mission, all the people who could suffer if it is left unfinished. "I have to go back," her tone is completely reluctant, "... the mission... I have to finish-"

"Natasha please," Y/n presses a hand to her lips to silence her, "look at us. Look at where you are." She grabs Natasha's hand and brings it back to her stomach, "think of where you started and all the good you've done to get here. You deserve this."

The widow stands frozen, still stuck between her duty to her family and her duty to save the world.

Y/n desperately tries to get through to her. "I understand how important this is to you. I can never ask you to give it up entirely. There will be other missions. I know it's part of the territory. As long as you come home to me, I'm not angry. I know what I signed up for..."

...she pauses for a deep breath, "but I need you for this part, Nat. This baby could come any day now, and I can't do this without you.” Tears roll down her cheeks as she begs, “please stay, that's all I ask. That would be enough, please Natty."

"Shhhhh," Natasha hushes her wife. Taking the other woman into her arms, she holds her entire world close to her heart. She can’t bring herself to let go. "Shhh, I'm here. I'm staying."

The rest of the world can wait. Her family needs her now.

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

Thank you so much for reading!!! I really appreciate it! Let me know what you think. If there's something you'd like to read, drop me an ask!

love you guys!

k

[masivechaos]

TRUST

Sirius Black x fem! reader

Request: yes / no

Synopsis: Sirius just finds out about James and Regulus’ relationship and he doesn’t accept it, when the marauders are in a big argument Y/n seems to be the only person who finds the good words.

Warning/content: swearing; jegulus; feeling betrayed; kissing; mention of blood, injuries, parental abuse, kissing, sex, being drunk; angst to fluff/ hurt to comfort; my English

a.n.: 3.5k words- I tried not to add many swear words but I'm a person who swears a lot and even more during arguments so sorry if there's too much. i think it’s one of my best so far, hope tumblr would finally decide to give me attention (my stats have been falling they’re underground) so don't hesitate to reblog it will really help me.

masterlist/ marauders masterlist / navigation

── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ.─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ.───･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ.──

Sirius plopped himself down on the couch between Remus and Y/n, Peter sitting on an armchair in front of them “Where’s Prongs?” he looked left and right, and no sign of the curly-haired boy.

“Dorm” Y/n replied as she ate a sugar quill, a pout formed on Sirius’ face and he threw his hand to his chest, falsely hurt “You eat without me” the girl rolled her eyes but her lips tugged upwards “You’re being silly”

“Me?” he said even more dramatically, Y/n laughed “Stop acting like a child. Why are you searching for James?” she asked, she brought a leg to her chest, her cheek pressing against her knee. “None of your business” he poked his tongue out at her.

“Why he’s upstairs when everyone is here?” Sirius questioned as he tilted his head “He told us he had a headache” she answered taking a bite of her quill. Sirius’ smile fell “Oh fuck” he got up “Gonna see if he’s fine”

Y/n started to talk with Peter until they heard shouts coming from the dorms. They stood up, followed by Remus, and rushed to the boys’ dormitory “What is happening?” Peter asked.

They saw James on his bed and next to him… Regulus? They both had messy hair, swollen lips and cheeks dusted in pink. Ooh, Y/n got it. “He’s fucking my brother! That’s what’s happening!” Sirius was yelling pointing at James.

Y/n rarely saw him getting mad like this, he was impulsive but not this much and it was usually for small stupid fights.

“What?” she never thought that James and Regulus could have a thing. She stopped herself from smiling a bit, and the anger emanating from her friend was enough to convince her.

Sirius turned his head to look at her “He was making out with Regulus! My best friend! Making out with my brother!” Remus tried to calm him “Hey… Calm down a bit…”

If Sirius’ eyes could kill Remus would be six feet under. “Calm down?! He’s shagging my brother!” he then looked at Regulus “He’s shagging my best mate!”

“We love each other!” James added. Sirius turned his head sharply “I don’t care, James!” James winced, here we go, they’re at the point where Sirius doesn’t use Prongs anymore. He started to justify himself but it was too much for Sirius. He stormed out of the room.

Y/n looked at Remus and Peter to see if they were as surprised as her but apparently not. “You knew?” she asked a little stunned. Remus sighed “Yeah” her eyes widened. Ouch, Sirius was going to lose it even more.

She darted out of the dorm, searching for Sirius. She found him sat on the stairs leading to the girls’ dormitories. She let herself fall next to him, she could hear his small sobs, they were angry tears. He rested his head on her shoulder “How can he do this to me?” he ground his teeth.

She hugged him, rubbing his shoulder with her hand, she could sense how betrayed he felt. “Hey… it’s gonna be okay” she reassured him quietly. But he shook his head “No…” she embraced him even tighter and kissed his temple. He let himself relax. They stayed like this until Sirius calmed down.

“I- I don’t want to go back there,” he told Y/n the voice craking, she offered him a soft smile placing a piece of hair behind his ear “You don’t have to, you can stay at my dorm” she offered him, whispering. He nodded “Thank you”

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

Sirius nuzzled in Y/n’s neck, she could feel his tears on her shoulder skin. He was now sad, he felt so betrayed, he trusted James, he was the only person who knew everything about how he felt about his family, who knew exactly what happened the night he escaped. But he was now kissing Regulus?

“Do you want to talk about it?” she whispered. It was not the first time they slept in the same bed, but this time felt more intimate. Usually, they would fall asleep after an exhausting day, or after a party when one of them is drunk and they’d take care of the other.

Tonight, Y/n saw Sirius breaking down like this for the first time. She knew he could cry and be emotional but she felt like he didn’t allow himself to be vulnerable in front of her. He would just wipe the tear that had just fallen on his cheek, laugh, and make a joke, creating a distraction so Y/n would forget he was sad.

But the thing is she never forgot, she knew he was just hiding his feelings away from her. She tried to scratch the emotional barrier he created when he was next to her, but he didn’t want to take it off. So after a few attempts, she gave up, their relationship only having surface conversations.

She wished he could open up to her, she wished he was comfortable enough with her to confide.

Y/n had always been close to Sirius, and they started being friends in second year. They were now in their last year and Y/n realized a year ago she liked him.

The feeling was terrible, loving your best friend, growing closer but without romantic feelings on his side. She even felt sometimes like he was her best friend but she wasn’t to him. She was at a point where she could feel jealous of his complicity with the marauders.

Y/n knew they saw him sad, angry, in the worst state ever. But she didn’t. She didn’t because he didn’t trust her. And she did everything she could to win his trust but he still didn’t let her see the more unsteady part of him.

“No…” Sirius finally answered. And Y/n shut her eyes, he definitely didn’t want to open up. Therefore she held him closer, hoping he will feel how much she cared, that he could talk to her. It didn’t work, he stopped crying and wrapped his arms around her shoulders before falling asleep but didn’t talk.

She felt guilty honestly. She was there, complaining in her head about the fact that her best friend whom she had feelings for didn’t open up to her when he was crying, cuddling her just a few minutes ago.

She pushed her thoughts away and tried to fall asleep. She kissed Sirius’ hair, wiping a tear on his cheek “It’s going to be okay” she whispered before drifting off.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

The next day Sirius stayed close to Y/n. He avoided James and Regulus to stop himself from yelling at them every time he saw them. The worst was that they stayed together, they held hands under the table at the library.

Sirius’ jaw was clenched and he felt his face hardened, he rushed out of the room as fast as possible and found comfort next to Y/n. He only had her because he had the nice surprise to discover that Remus and Peter already knew about James and Regulus and told him that he was ‘overreacting a bit’

Sirius hated how he acted with Y/n. He needed her, but he didn’t want to seem vulnerable. Godric, he loved her so much, that he didn’t want to show her this side of him, he wanted her to see him as a funny little dude who was smiling and making jokes about his traumas.

But there was a moment where he needed to talk to somebody, and since his best friends weren’t the ones he could talk to in this situation he stuck with Y/n but stopped himself from talking about how betrayed he felt, how it shattered his heart. He cried and yelled in front of her yesterday it was enough.

She was always so understanding but he simply couldn't let her enter his deepest feelings. If there is one thing he learned from his childhood is showing emotions is bad. Don't smile, don't cry.

He still remembered the way her mother looked at him with disappointment in her eyes when he let out sobs in front of her for the first time, the way she left. Leaving him alone in the dark room he used as his bedroom.

He didn't want Y/n to leave. He didn't want to become again this little scared child in the dark room, cold giving him goosebumps, shadows becoming monsters.

So he bottled up in front of her so maybe she'd stay. He was sad or angry? not with her, he couldn't.

He tried to get as much comfort as possible without her suspecting something. Stealing a hug that lasted a second too long as a greeting when he just cried the entire night. Falling asleep with her, when his tiring day wasn't about school but the letter he received from his parents.

He couldn't let her see through him.

But as he tried to get the entire story out of his head for a minute someone called him “Padfoot” he took a deep breath as he recognized James’ voice and turned around to face the boy “James” he knew that by calling his friend by his name instead of his nickname he’ll get that Sirius is still mad at him.

James winced but still kept going “Please… Can we try to talk?” Sirius huffed “No! You know I hate my family and all you find to do is dating Regulus! I trusted you and you betrayed me!” he shouted, they were alone in their dormitory, Sirius wanted to take some stuff to stay at Y/n’s dorm.

“Pads… he’s not like them” James tried but only received a death stare from Sirius who faked a laugh “Then why he didn’t help me the night I ran away, huh?! Why did he let me bleeding there, James? Why?!” he said, hands in fists, knuckles turning white.

James hated to see Sirius like this, and it hurt to know that it was his fault. But he needed to defend his boyfriend “He was scared��� and he felt like- like… you abandoned him”

“Abandoned him?” Sirius scoffed “You know how many punches I took for him?” he was now closer to his friend as he felt rage winning him. “He- he thought I replaced him in your heart” James added but the raven-haired boy wasn’t satisfied by the answer “Bullshit.” he took a deep breath before adding “Since when have you been together?” he asked

James’ tongue darted out to wet his lips, he shut his eyelids “James?” the other boy said sharply. The curly-haired boy opened his eyes “Five months” he looked at the ground and only heard the door slamming as Sirius left the room.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

But downstairs, in the common room, Sirius found Remus who tried to talk to him “Pads, don’t you want to give them a chance?” he pleaded but Sirius only glared at him before heading to the girl dorm.

He ignored Lily as she asked him if he was okay and join Y/n in her own bed. She looked up and immediately saw something was wrong with him “Come here” she opened her arms for him and he quickly laid down his head on her chest.

“What happened?” she asked “I don’t want to talk about it” he responded and Y/n felt her heart sink “Sirius… You know you can talk to me, right?” her voice flinched and the boy heard the hurt in it. He plopped himself on his elbows.

“Is everything fine?” Y/n couldn’t help herself but started crying “Why don’t you ever open up to me? You don’t trust me? Am I doing something wrong?” she said through some sobs. Shit. Sirius never wanted to make her feel like it was her fault.

He cupped her cheek “It’s not because of you, darling” he reassured her “Then why don’t you talk to me?” she asked with eyes that broke his heart. “I don’t want you to see me vulnerable. I’m scared you won’t like me anymore” Y/n sat up.

“Why would I?” Sirius sat next to her, his head against the headboard “I- I don’t know. I’m supposed to be always laughing and happy, don’t want you to see me cry”

Y/n smiled softly “You don’t have to be always laughing and happy with me. You’re allowed to be sad, Sirius” a tear fell on his cheek and his eyebrows raised, he bit his bottom lip “Really?” he whispered like he couldn’t believe what she just said.

She wrapped her arms around his shoulders, hugging him tightly “Of course” his cries grew louder, he needed to hear these words “Thank you, Y/n. So much” he embraced her back.

She pulled away after a few minutes “You didn’t say you wanted to bring some clothes?” she asked, looking around finding nothing but her own belongings and Sirius sighed “I argued with James when I went to my dorm” he told her.

“Oh. Do you want me to go?” Sirius´ lips tugged up as he wiped a dry tear on his cheek “You would do that?” Y/n kissed his forehead “Of course, stay here!”

She opened the curtains of her bed and rushed out of the room.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

“What are you doing here?” James asked, his brows furrowed “Taking some togs for Sirius” Y/n answered as she dug into Sirius’ closet before pulling out some clothes. She could sense James wanted to tell something and it didn’t miss “He’s still mad at me?”

She turned her head and gave him a sad smile. He let himself fall on his bed and lifted his arms in the air “Just- Take care of him” he told Y/n, she nodded her head and left.

When she returned to her room Y/n found Sirius almost asleep on her bed. “Hey” she whispered, he turned his head, his hair a little frizzy from staying on the pillow. She handed him some shorts and an oversized shirt “Go take a shower I’ll wait for you”

Sirius stepped out of the bathroom, hair freshly damp, and sat next to Y/n who had changed into pyjamas too. He stretched down when she did, they were facing each other, the curtains hiding them “I’m sorry for making you feel like it was your fault if I didn’t open up” Sirius apologized. “Don’t be sorry Sirius” she reassured him

“I realized I didn’t ask you your opinion on the situation, I just complained” he said with a sigh. “Well, I understand how you feel, and why you feel like this.” Sirius felt relieved “But,” she added “I can also understand the boys. I trust James and I don’t think he’ll date a bad person. So if it wasn’t your brother I won’t say anything. But I understand that you’re shocked because it’s your brother”

He wanted to be mad at her, to yell at her and tell her how much she was crazy but he simply couldn’t. She was not the first person who told him this but it sounded better when it was from her. She wasn’t judging him for being angry, she was just being unbiased. “You think my brother isn’t a bad person?” he asked

She shrugged “I don’t know. But maybe you should try to talk to him” she proposed. He grunted “He didn’t help me, Y/n. He left me bleeding on the floor with broken ribs” his voice broke and his eyes started to water at the memory.

“James knows?” she asked, surprised that James would date Regulus if he really left Sirius. He nodded “Yeah, but apparently Regulus was too scared to act, and he also felt like I abandoned him by living with James”

Y/n stayed silent for a bit and ended up resting her hand on his shoulder “You don’t want to talk about that night with your brother? Having the two versions would maybe help you” she whispered as she realized Sirius started to be really tired.

He stared at her for a few minutes, debating in his head “Okay, I’ll try” he finally said. “I’m proud of you” she smiled, she really was. He found him brave to accept this. He nuzzled in her neck and she started to play with his hair until he fell asleep.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

They woke up in the same position as the night before. Sirius was panicking “What!” Y/n asked, still dizzy “Fuck!” he swore as he got out of the bed “What?” she asked again, sitting up. “I forgot I had a detention with McGonagall!”

Y/n couldn’t help but laugh “Stooop! It’s not funny!” he whined. She tried to stop but she simply couldn’t, she was thinking about the future silly excuses Sirius was going to give to the Professor. “Good luuuck” she shouted, he blew her a raspberry before rushing to the transfiguration classroom.

She let herself fall on the bed and sighed contently “Well, well” she heard Lily say. “What?” she chuckled, Lily sat next to her “Since when you’re dating Sirius?” she asked.

Y/n’s cheeks heated up “We’re not dating!” The ginger girl rolled her eyes “You clearly like each other!” she stated. Y/n blushed even more “He doesn’t like me”

Lily sighed “You’re the only one who doesn’t see it” she smiled. The other girl’s eyes widened “I think you’re imagining things, Lils” she said sadly.

“Then he’s been sleeping in your bed as a friend?” Lily smirked. Y/n rolled in her bed, laying on her stomach, her head buried in her pillow “Arghh! It’s not like this! I wished! I wished it was like you said! He’s just arguing with his friends so he stays with me”

“Um um, yeah sure” Lily replied “You know that arguing with his friends and staying with you doesn’t mean that he has to cling to you like this the entire night?” she raised an eyebrow with a playful smile.

“Ah, stop! Please! You’re just giving me fake hope!” Y/n said as she got up to eat breakfast. She ignored her friend as she continued to go on and on about the fact that Sirius fancied her.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

A few days later, Y/n headed back from the Great Hall and saw Sirius and Regulus talking. They were yelling at each other in a garden. She also observed James in a corner, she joined him “Hey” he turned his head “Hi” he responded.

They haven’t talked since she came into the dorm to take Sirius’ clothes. Sirius didn’t talk to his friends, he fled their glances the whole days, mostly staying with Y/n. He wasn’t even thinking of talking to his brother but today he met him in a hallway and he couldn’t escape it.

James and Y/n watched in silence as the brothers were fighting, more yells and cries until both of them stopped. They stared at each other before Sirius hugged Regulus tightly, the latter’s shoulders were shaking before finally relaxing under the boy’s warm embrace.

Y/n glanced at James with a big smile “I think things are going to be better” she winked, and the curly-haired boy wrapped his arms around her shoulders “Thank you, thank you, thank you” she chuckled as he kept thanking her.

Sirius walked to them “Prongs, listen. I’m sorry and it’s fine. Just- if you hurt him I will kill you” he warned, he then looked at Regulus “And if you hurt him I will kill you” Y/n soft laugh won Sirius’ attention.

James and Regulus left on their side, and Sirius looked at Y/n “Thank you” she hugged him, his hands clinging to her shirt in her back. Tears welled in his eyes again, this day was full of emotions “Sorry” he said as he thumbed away his tears, hiding his face.

Y/n took his wrist, pulling his hand away from his face “Hey, don’t hide, it’s okay. Don’t be ashamed to express your feelings. It’s normal to feel like this”

"You won't leave me?" he asked, he was the most vulnerable he'd ever been in front of her. She tucked a strand of hair behind his ear "I won't leave, Sirius. Never" she reassured him. He stared at her, lips slightly open, his eyes flickered to her own mouth.

“Kiss me” he heard her say. A smirk formed on his lips “Be careful, if I kiss you I don’t think I’ll be able to stop” he cupped her cheek and she bit the inside of her bottom lip.

“Just kiss me” she asked again. He chuckled and finally leaned in. Their lips touched, the taste of Sirius’ previous tears melting in the kiss, and a weird sensation grew in Y/n’s stomach but she didn’t mind, she liked it. Sirius deepened the kiss, his other hand in her hair.

It will take some time for Sirius to accept James and Regulus, asking them less PDA as possible in front of him but Y/n was right, things got better.