#if i was his assistant i'd pounce on him

[scrollonso]

missing fernandos magic tricks rn

[rainybubbles]

How do you meet COD Men ? - AU civilian

Soap, Ghost, Gaz, Price, König, Rudy, Alex, Nikolai

(Sorry in advance for my mistakes, English is not my mother tongue. So sorry if it's badly written, mid or if they're OOC)

SOAP as a firefighter : 

-"911, how can I assist you today?"

-"I think there's been a break-in at my place!"

-"Could you describe the intruder, ma'am?"

-"It's... a turkey."

-"A turkey?"

-"Yeah, one of those gobbling birds! My neighbors use a live one for their Thanksgiving, and it somehow busted loose. It barged into my place through the door, gave me a real fright. I dashed into my bathroom, but it went all 'Rambo' on my door, and now it's busted. My handle is broken, I'm stuck in here!"

-"Don't worry, help is on the way."

-And that's when you met Soap. There he was, showing up at your doorstep in full firefighter gear.

-"Hey there ?" he greeted, axe in hand, ready to face off against the rogue turkey.

-You weren’t kidding, he thought.

-He couldn't believe his eyes when he saw the havoc that bird had wreaked in your place.

-Your poor sofa was toast, and your table was in pieces. Slowly, he made his way to the damaged door.

-"Hey there, Ah’m a firefighter. I’m here tae break down the door. Please step back."

-"Oh thanks ! I was starting to think I'd be spending the night bawling in my bathtub."

-He chuckled.

-"Wouldnae want a lovely person like yerself spendin’ Thanksgiving solo."

-"Thanks," you replied.

-"I'll get started," Soap said as he began dismantling the door.

-"Here, it looks like the turkey's gone," he reported.

-But when he turned to you, he noticed something amiss.

- Normally, people were relieved to see him, not scared out of their wits.

-His gaze shifted back, and that's when he saw it—the monstrous turkey, ready to pounce.

-Without a second thought, he scooped you up, effortlessly carrying you despite whatever size or weight you were, and bolted past the bird.

-"Why's that thing so fast?" he exclaimed.

-"They're practically dinosaurs, I swear!" you cried from the safety of his arms.

-You both made it to the street. Soap dialed up a wildlife specialist to handle the feathery menace.

-"Ah’l swearin’ off turkey forever," he vowed.

-"I think finding a new place to live might be a good idea," you whispered, still trying to calm your nerves.

-"Aye, yer neighbors are some real characters for pullin’ a stunt like this."

-"Thanks again for this. I mean, I'm sure you've got more pressing cases."

-"No’ really. Usually, it's just family squabbles. Last time, Ah had a grandma tryin’ tae kill her son wi’ mashed potatoes," he joked.

-"Grandma can get wild," you chuckled.

-"Ye have no idea. Name's John, by the way. Sorry for forgettin’ ma manners."

-"Hey, a wild turkey trying to take me out can do that to a person," you quipped. "I'm Y/n," you added.

-He grinned.

-“I owe you big time, Soap," you said, finally stepping out of the bathroom. "Guess this Thanksgiving, I'll be giving thanks for firefighters and sturdy bathtubs."

-Soap gave you a reassuring smile. "Hey, it's all in a day's work. Plus, -it's not every day I get to play hero to a person in distress... from a turkey."

-After the turkey trouble was sorted, Soap bid his farewell. Little did he know, two days later, your new neighbor would be attempting to cook aluminum in his microwave. Maybe this time he'd find a moment to ask for your number.

-------

GHOST as a chef : 

-The poor waitress had asked you twice if you wanted to order by the time your date arrived. But it was painfully obvious. 

-You had been stood up.

 -You tried to ignore the looks, the sensation of your clothes feeling too tight, too constricting. You felt like a clown.

-Staring at your phone, you sent messages, hoping for excuses like traffic or an important matter.

-Maybe he had a flat tire, or perhaps his boss demanded he stay late. Yet, two hours later, you were still there, feeling like a fool.

-That's when the message came: "Oh, I was just joking, you're not my type, you know."

-Tears welled in your eyes as you felt the humiliation wash over you.

-How could someone flirt for two months just as a joke? He messaged you every night; how were you supposed to know it was all a farce?

-Biting your lip, you stood up.

-At this hour, you hoped there were still buses running.

-You couldn't afford an Uber. Yet, as you gathered your things, the waitress approached.

-"Excuse me, but your food will arrive."

-"I... I'm sorry, but I can't... I can't afford anything here, and my date stood me up. He was supposed to pay, and..." you rambled, feeling ashamed, but she led you back to your seat.

-You felt even more ashamed. This place was so luxurious.

-"I really can't afford it, madam," you whispered.

-"It's on the house. The chef offered it," she said gently.

-"Oh."

-You didn't know if you felt grateful or not. It felt like pity, but food from a Michelin-starred restaurant was still a luxury, so you ate. It was unbelievably good. You felt so thankful to the chef.

-"I... could I thank him?" you asked after finishing your dinner.

-"He doesn't speak to clients. That's why he opened his own restaurant — so he could remain unseen by his patrons and not be obligated to accept their thanks, As he says “I Ghost clients”" the waitress explained.

-"I see. His dishes are so precise, it's impressive."

-"Yeah, he's good with a knife."

-"Well, thanks again for offering me this. It was a crappy night, but at least I ended up in heaven," you said.

-She smiled, and you left.

-But you felt indebted to him. Dishes like that cost a lot.

- Even if you didn't doubt he could afford it, you felt like you had to do something in return.

-So the next night, you baked cookies.

-You felt ridiculous with your small Tupperware and homemade cookies.

-They'd probably taste awful to him, you thought, but you wanted to repay him.

-"Hi, I... wanted to give this to Ghost? He offered me dishes last time, and I wanted to thank him. I understand if you say no. I mean, it could have poison in it, but..." you rambled to the waiter.

-"No need, we'll take it," the waiter with a mohawk said with a smile.

-You felt like he knew something you didn't. As you were about to leave, a tall, blond man walked over, holding a cookie.

-"Thanks," he said with a gruff voice behind his mask.

-Shit. Ghost was... this man?

-This mountain of muscles made those beautiful dishes? Those meticulous details came from his hands? You were impressed.

-"Do you like it?" you asked, unsure.

-"Best cookies I've tasted."

-"I know you're lying."

-"Second," he admitted. "My ma's were better."

-You chuckled.

-"I can give you the recipe. I mean, you really saved me last night. It was so... humiliating."

-"It's not. The only one who should feel ashamed is the bloke who stood you up, love."

-"You're right, but still."

-"Come back again, Friday. With the recipe."

-"I can send it by email."

-"I want you to taste a new dish."

-"Oh."

-"Having someone honest is nice. It's a change from all the compliments."

-"Okay," you agreed.

-Little did you know, Simon would always find new dishes to make you come back.

-Of course, he could ask his sous-chefs or waiters to taste, but seeing your smile or frown after a taste was so much better.

-(I need a long fic about Simon being a chef, like this AU has so much potential, plus in kitchen you have “brigade” which could be like 141)

GAZ as a primary school teacher : 

-You were on your usual delivery route, this time dropping off packages at the primary school.

-As you made your way through the corridors, you spotted Gaz, the primary teacher, who greeted you with a smile.

-"I was waiting for you," Gaz said cheerfully.

-"Oh, am I right on time?" you responded, glancing at your phone in confusion.

-"Yes, but the kids are eager," Gaz explained.

-You furrowed your eyebrows. Eager for what? Seeing a delivery person? Or perhaps the contents of your package were something special, like paintings or other intriguing items?

-"I see," you said, still puzzled.

-"Follow me," Gaz instructed, leading you into his classroom before you could protest.

-As you entered, you were met with the curious gaze of twenty pairs of eyes.

-It dawned on you as you glanced at a piece of paper – Gaz had mistaken you for the guest speaker, an athlete scheduled to address the students.

-"Sir, I think there's been a mistake," you whispered to Gaz, but before you could say more, a child wrapped their arms around you.

-"I'm so glad you're here!" the child exclaimed, melting your resolve. How could you shatter their excitement?

-You couldn’t bear to crush their excitement. Besides, it was clear that the athlete wasn’t going to show up; it was already 10 AM, and they were supposed to be there by 8AM according to the schedule on the board.

-And so, you found yourself spinning tales to answer their questions, pretending to be the athlete they expected. 

-“Um, hey there ! Being an athlete is pretty cool, you know” you improvised, trying to sound convincing.

-“How does it feel to do sports all day ?” one curious kid asked

-“Well it’s tough but you know riding horse is fun”

-“I thought you were running”

-“RUNNING ! Of course, horse is just a hobby” you blurted out

-Despite your fibs, the kids beamed with admiration, hanging onto your every word.

-After a couple of hours, Gaz approached you with a knowing smile.

-"You're not the athlete, are you?" he said, a hint of amusement in his voice.

-"How did you figure it out?" you replied sheepishly.

-"When you mentioned unicorns helping your coach – that was a dead giveaway," Gaz chuckled. "But I appreciate you playing along."

-"I couldn’t bear to disappoint the kids. Kids' dreams are important," you admitted, feeling a twinge of guilt.

-"Yeah, they are," Gaz agreed. "Thanks for going along with it."

-"It was more fun than my usual deliveries, anyway," you admitted with a grin.

-“Wait, your boss won’t be mad ?! I mean two hours, sorry you must be so late, no ?”he said worried

-“Don’t worry you were my last”

-As you prepared to leave, Gaz introduced himself properly.

-"Thanks against or helping out. And by the way 'm Kyle, but the kids call me Gaz – it's easier for them," he explained.

-"It was nice meeting you, Gaz," you said sincerely, touched by his kindness towards the children.

-As you left the school, you couldn’t help but feel a sense of warmth and contentment. And to your surprise, when you made your next delivery, there was Gaz, offering to lend a hand. 

-"Thought you might need some help this time," he said with a wink.

-Maybe it was repayment for your earlier assistance, or perhaps the kids had teased him about having a crush on you – either way, you were grateful for his company.

PRICE as an uni history teacher :

-It was about 10 PM, and there you were, sprinting in high heels, your wig dangling precariously.

-"Oh, for the love of all that’s good," you muttered under your breath.

-The situation was straightforward, yet utterly absurd.

- You, a university teacher, found yourself at a costume party with a Bridgerton theme.

- After hastily getting ready at your friend’s place, it dawned on you that you had forgotten your house key.

-Sure, crashing at your friend's was an option, but you had a furry friend waiting at home who needed your attention.

-So, off you went, driving back to the only place your keys could be: the teacher's offices at the university.

- Picture this: you, clad in an 18th-century outfit, a fake wig teetering on your head, and a petticoat swishing around, all the while cursing your luck and hoping no students would spot you.

-Finally, you reached the office, finding it deserted. You located your keys and—

-"Quite the accurate ensemble, I must say."

-You froze, turning to find a man with a rather impressive beard. "Um, I can explain?"

-"Are you a student?" he asked.

-"No need to butter me up; I know I don't exactly look like one," you confessed.

-He chuckled. "Sorry, I was just trying to give you an out. You know, student parties and whatnot."

-"Thanks, but yeah, I'm the… new teacher. Guess we haven't crossed paths yet. Been here about a month," you said, extending your hand.

-"Well, isn't this a fortunate coincidence?" he remarked.

-"How so?"

-"I’m John Price," he revealed.

-Your eyes widened. Oh, crap. You just met THE history teacher of the campus dressed as a Bridgerton character. What were the odds?

-He laughed. "Nice to meet my new colleague. Heard quite a bit about your work."

-"Likewise, and… sorry about the attire," you apologized.

-"No need. It suits you. Makes me feel like a proper gentleman seeing someone dressed like that," he said with a grin.

-You chuckled nervously. "Well, it was nice meeting you, Mr. Price."

-Little did you know, your next class for the first year was a shared one with him. Dodging him might not be as simple as you thought.

NIKOLAI as a F1 pilot :

-Your friend's desperate plea over the phone stirred something in you.

-"Alright, I'll come help with the shoot," you conceded, feeling a flutter of excitement mixed with apprehension.

-As you arrived at the location, taking in the serene surroundings, you couldn't shake the feeling of being out of place among the bustling crew.

-Your specialty lay in capturing the untamed beauty of animals—dogs, cats, and the like.

-This commercial setup felt like a far cry from your usual stomping grounds.

-Engaging in conversation with the staff about the artistic direction, you couldn't help but notice the artificiality of the setting, with fake plants and trees surrounding you.

-Nevertheless, you settled in, adjusting lights and preparing for the task at hand.

-"The model is here," an assistant announced, drawing your attention to the center of the room where a man stood, completely naked.

-"Why is he naked?" you whispered in disbelief, feeling a flush rise to your cheeks.

-"It's for the charity event, featuring naked pilots for calendars," the staff explained casually, oblivious to your discomfort.

-Stunned, you turned to your friend, silently questioning her decision to involve you in this unconventional endeavor.

-"I photograph nature and animals, not... naked humans!" you protested, feeling a mix of embarrassment and frustration.

-"Well, technically, you photograph a big snake," she quipped, a mischievous glint in her eye.

-You rolled your eyes, suppressing a sigh. "Ugh, don't even mention his...thing, please."

-"I don't mind being called an anaconda," the man interjected with a smirk, his gaze lingering on you in a way that made your heart race.

-Caught off guard by his boldness, you shifted uncomfortably, suddenly hyper-aware of his proximity.

- "Sir, I'm sorry, but I wasn't warned about these... circumstances," you stammered, struggling to maintain composure.

-"I understand. If we need to reschedule, no problem, Солнышко ," he reassured, his voice low and soothing, sending shivers down your spine.

-"What did you just say?" you asked, unable to hide the hint of fluster in your tone.

-"Sorry, I meant no problem to reschedule, sunshine," he clarified, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

-"But you're... a star?" you questioned, feeling a mixture of confusion and intrigue.

-"I'm a well-known F1 pilot, yes. But I'm closer to retirement than those young ones. I doubt people would buy the calendar for me," he admitted with a self-deprecating chuckle, his vulnerability tugging at your heartstrings.

-"I'd certainly buy it for you," your friend chimed in, breaking the tension with a playful grin.

-He laughed, his gaze lingering on you with a warmth that made your cheeks flush. "And you?"

-"I... maybe? Okay, we'll do it, but I can't guarantee anything. I'm more accustomed to animals, so..." you trailed off, feeling a rush of adrenaline at the prospect of working closely with him.

-"Let's get started," he suggested, his smile softening the edges of the room and easing your nerves.

-And so, the shoot commenced, with Nikolai proving to be a surprisingly adept model, effortlessly charming everyone with his wit and charisma.

- As you directed him through the poses, you couldn't help but notice the subtle tension between you, a magnetic pull that seemed to grow stronger with each passing moment.

-"Thanks for today. Need a ride?" he offered, his gaze lingering on you with an intensity that sent a shiver down your spine.

-"No, I came in my car," you replied, torn between the desire to stay and the need to escape the overwhelming atmosphere.

-"The red one?" a staff member inquired, oblivious to the undercurrents swirling between you.

-"Yeah, why?" you asked, feeling a knot form in your stomach at the thought of your car.

-"Sorry, mate, your car got impounded," they informed you, their words puncturing the bubble of tension that had enveloped you.

-You sighed, feeling a sense of defeat wash over you. "So, a ride?" Nikolai offered, his gaze softening with concern.

-"Yeah, I guess. What a crappy day," you muttered, cursing your luck.

-"Don't say that, it was great," he insisted, his voice gentle and reassuring.

-You nodded, feeling a rush of gratitude towards him for his unexpected kindness. In his car, as he drove you away from the chaos of the shoot, you couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over you, a feeling that was only amplified by his soothing presence.

-"Not what you were expecting, huh?" he remarked, his tone playful yet sincere.

-"Well, I wasn't expecting a race car drive, but yeah," you chuckled, feeling the tension between you slowly dissipating.

-"I drive safely. Sometimes you need low adrenaline," he explained, his words resonating with you in a way that made your heart skip a beat.

-"Thanks again for the ride," you said, turning to him with a smile that felt more genuine than any you had worn all day.

-"No problem. I mean, you've seen me naked, so..." he trailed off, a mischievous glint in his eye.

-"Yeah, sure," you laughed, feeling a warmth spread through you at the playful banter.

-"If you want, you can still come to one of my races," he offered, his gaze lingering on you with a hopefulness that sent a flutter of excitement through your chest.

-"I'll think about it," you replied, unable to suppress the smile that tugged at your lips as you contemplated the possibilities that lay ahead.

ALEX as a lawyer :

-You couldn't believe your eyes.

-A client was after you for a cup of tea—yes, you heard that right, a freaking tea!

-The same tea you accidentally spilled during a chaotic rush, and she tripped you with her feet, claiming you scalded her with hot tea. The kicker?

-You knew it was iced tea.

- But it was your word against hers, and she had a squadron of lawyers ready to pounce, while you were broke. It was pretty clear how this would end.

-You sighed, resorting to searching for lawyers online, but all you found were scams.

-One promised to chase after dead people, another claimed you'd make thousands just by being pretty, and the rest boasted about defending infamous criminals with laughably bad Photoshopped images.

-Feeling desperate, you reluctantly agreed when your mom mentioned your cousin knew someone who knew someone. You certainly didn't expect a model-lawyer showing up at your doorstep with a bright smile and legal expertise.

-"Hi, I'm Alex," he offered his hand.

-"Hi, I guess you know about my... case?" you replied.

-"Yes, there's a high chance of her winning since similar cases have ruled in favor of people like her. Remember the McDonald's hot coffee incident?" he explained.

-"So I'm screwed?" you muttered.

-"Not necessarily. I can prove she's acting out of self-interest."

-"...before you say anything, you know, I can't... afford it?" you interjected.

-"Yes. I... I used to be a prominent lawyer. Perhaps you've heard of the Shepherd case?" he mentioned.

-"The CEO who got off the hook despite everyone knowing he committed tax fraud?" you recalled.

-"Yes, I was his lawyer," he admitted.

-"Oh," you murmured, taken aback.

-"I... I'm not proud of the people I've defended. I didn't realize the harm I was causing to victims. For me, everyone deserved representation, but when I saw what Shepherd did with his ill-gotten gains... I couldn't continue down that path. I signed up to advocate for people. Not evil," he confessed.

-"So you took on lost causes like me?" you mused.

-"You could say that," he smiled.

-"Well, it sounds like Daredevil. Maybe I'll catch you wearing a latex suit at night while fighting crime," you joked.

-"You might be onto something there," he replied, his expression serious.

-"Wait, you're joking?" you asked, but he didn't crack a smile.

-"Mr. Keller, you're joking, right?" you pressed, but he just smirked.

-"Let's focus on your case," he redirected.

-"You can't just dodge my question. I need to know—" 

-"Boxing. I box at night, nothing illegal. I train kids, and I've competed in the past," he confessed.

-"I see. Why do I find that hard to believe?" you teased.

-"I'm a damn good liar. I'm a lawyer," he retorted.

-"Fair point," you chuckled.”well at least I believe in the latex suit at night”

-“Kinky”he joked, you smiled.

-Alex got down to business, helping you devise a strategy.

-Maybe with this super lawyer on your side, you stood a chance. Yet, you couldn't shake the curiosity about his secrets. Who knows what uncovering them might bring?

KÖNIG as a baker :

-König had just opened his bakery.

- Eager to be neighborly, he sent some cookies to the local shops nearby.

- However, when his customers arrived one day, one of them expressed hesitation: "You know, I was hesitant to buy here because I heard you made the florist down the street sick."

-König couldn't believe his ears.

- Ashamed, he double-checked his ingredients, but everything seemed fine.

-So, he decided to switch things up and bake some croissants instead.

-Yet, the next day brought news that the florist had fallen ill due to food poisoning.

-Determined to make amends, König sent something different the following day.

-And the pattern repeated itself. After a week of this, he finally decided to confront the florist.

-Entering their cute shop, he whispered nervously, "Hallo."

-"Hi," you replied.

-"I'm König, the—"

-"The baker," you interrupted.

-He froze.

-Well, he certainly hadn't made a good impression.

-After seven incidents, he couldn't expect a warm reception, but he hoped you’d understand he hadn't done it intentionally. He wasn't a villain.

-"I'm sorry about the pastries," he began, "I swear I don't know what went wrong. Other shops ate them and had no issues. I—"

-"I know you're not trying to poison me," you interjected.

-"Oh, but... then why?" he asked.

-"I thought someone would have told you, maybe Horangi, the chef at the restaurant. But I'm lactose intolerant. I assumed you knew, so I ate your pastries thinking someone had informed you. Then, I realized that wasn't the case. But if I didn't eat your gift, you might have thought I was upset with you, so I still ate them, and—"

-"It was a misunderstanding," König finished their sentence.

-"Two anxious people overthinking things, but yeah," you admitted, laughing.

-"I promise to bake you something lactose-free," he vowed.

-"Thanks, it'll be appreciated. Your pastries were good, just not for my digestive system," you replied.

-He nodded and returned to his bakery, pondering the idea of introducing gluten and lactose-free versions of his pastries. Surely not because of the cute florist who seemed to visit more often now. Nah.

RUDY as a librarian :

-You were a young journalist, eager to dive into investigative reporting, but your editor relegated you to the local sports section since you were the new kid on the block.

- It wasn't exactly your passion, but you made the best of it. Your current assignment: write about Rodolfo Parra, a former boxer.

-Avoiding the internet due to its unreliable nature, especially for local stories, you opted for the library.

- As you searched for information on Parra, a man approached.

-"Need a hand?" he offered.

-You glanced at his badge, confirming his name as Rudy.

-"Yeah, I'm digging up info on the boxer Rodolfo Parra. I heard his early days were at the local club, so I figured the archives might have something," you explained.

-Rudy smiled. "Rodolfo Parra, huh?"

-"Yeah, you know him?"

-"You could say that, but I've heard he's not too keen on journalists."

-"Exactly why I couldn't land an interview," you sighed.

-"But why write about him? He retired two years ago," Rudy questioned.

-"My boss wants it, so here I am," you replied with a hint of resignation.

-"I've got some info, but can I trust you?" Rudy hesitated.

-"Absolutely, I'll respect his privacy. I just want to know his story, his struggles. I've heard rumors about a fixed fight where a coach, El Sinombre, forced him to lose," you shared.

-Rudy's expression darkened. "It was more than that. I'm surprised you know about it."

-"I've delved into El Sinombre's dealings before. I wanted to write for investigative reporting," you confessed. "I found it odd that a sports club had ties to a pharmacy."

-"They developed stimulants to win fights, and more... potent substances," Rudy revealed.

-"So Rodolfo lost to a doped-up opponent?" you concluded.

-"Yeah. Rumor has it, El Sinombre threatened his family if he didn't comply. Rodolfo vowed never to lose, so El Sinombre took matters into his own hands..." Rudy trailed off.

-"And Rodolfo ended up paralyzed," you finished solemnly.

-"Yeah, but with rehab, he's probably walking now. But he can't fight anymore," Rudy confirmed.

-"Having your dreams crushed like that must be devastating. A fighter silenced," you mused.

-"Maybe it was for the best," Rudy countered.

-"You think so?" you questioned.

-"Boxing isn't a lifelong career. Maybe retiring was a blessing," he reasoned.

-"I don't know, having your dreams shattered like that... it must take a toll. Imagine if someone burned down your library," you countered.

-"Well, this library was my backup dream, so I'd just have to find another," he quipped.

-You nodded, then realization dawned. "Your backup dream?"

-"Yeah," Rudy admitted. "Rudy for Rodolfo. Not the smartest move for a future investigative journalist, huh?"

-"Hey! You—yeah, I was naïve, but you could've given me a heads-up," you teased back.

-"Now, tell me about your boss. Things might be more complicated than we thought," Rudy suggested.

-"Do you think El Sinombre is after you?" you pondered.

-"We'll find out," he replied cryptically.

-Maybe your beat would evolve over time...

If you want more : my masterlist

I still need to write Alejandro, Lasswell and Farah, maybe in a next part with other characters :) !

[simply-trash5]

Thank you so much for the last Momiji one you wrote it was so perfect!! If I may be so bold as to make another request!

I'd love to see Shigure meeting one of Yuki/Tohru/Kyo's assistant teachers-she's a recent graduate- and starts to flirt and she does flirt back a little but also keeps the kids-and him- in line but in a sweet way(not too harsh but still firm). No rush! I pray you're feeling better! <3

I LOVE THIS IDEA

I’m going to do it HC style:

🐾Shigure loathed the fact he would have to go to the school for Kyo knowing he probably got into some sort of shenanigans again.

🐾he walked into the classroom and sees the most beautiful woman he had ever seen…so he was ready to pounce.

🐾”oh I’ll handle my dear Kyo, but tell me Miss…maybe you would want to meet sometime next week to talk about his progress.”

🐾the teacher was floored at his forward approach…but she wasn’t giving in that easy.

🐾”nonsense Mr. Sohma…I’m sure he will behave from now on.”

🐾Kyo began laughing at Shigure being shut down which made the teacher give him a stern look…

🐾”Kyo, it would be an honor if you teach me some jokes since you’re so funny…”

🐾Now was Shigure’s turn to laugh…

🐾the teacher dismissed them both but was sure she would see Shigure again…so when he shows up about a week later for a “conference” she decides to go with him on that date…

[foxilayde]

Total 'snake oil salesman' vibes. Yet I'd still open the door wider, "C'mon in. I just made a fresh batch of lemonade, and my husband won't be home for hours. He works late, and I'm ever-so lonely."

Who cares what he's selling, I'll buy it, I'll give him anything he wants. He wouldn't even get midway thru his pitch before I'd pounce like a hungry, rabid beast.

He’s definitely just taken off his fedora and loosened his tie to get ‘more comfortable’, upon your assistance of course. “It’s hot as blazes out there, mister. That can’t be comfortable… there, that’s better. You can hang those up in the foyer.” Everything you say to him is laced with innuendo and you’re glad you answered the door in your thin nightdress and silk robe. You stalk off to the kitchen, putting a little extra sway in your hips. “You wait right there on the sofa. Make yourself at home, sugar. I’m just squeezing the lemons 😉”

[hellcatinnc]

Lover Pretend Review

Includes Spoilers

Eiichirou Asagi

His laugh is adorable and I can't help wanting to want to date him from the start I hate I had to wait. He has a smile and personality that just makes you want to pounce your professor I mean seriously who would not want to be mentored and seduced by this man. I squealed when I got to his route and I swear this man will be the death of me. It is hot when a man says "Good Girl" but damn this man kept saying after he was say to do something like seriously WTF... I found myself literally drooling over this man and his CG like oh there is the one with his tongue tasting his fingers. Somehow I feel like he is blocked til last because this professor is a naughty man and damn I wish you could go more in depth with that. I need a fan disk with more Eiichirou in it!!!

So this man is like the whole package I had no clue anyone would truly take my attention away from Riku & Yukito but damn everything about this man is better. He even flirts but in a almost not knowing way like when you take him food as an assistant he talks about how you would make a great wife like WHHAATT!! Even when you find out he is your brother he still wants you because he is in love with you. Like I know it may sound bad but fuck if he was gonna be in my bed and I just found that out I would shred the results act like I never saw them. anyways he is a bad boy with his naughtiness like kissing you when your asleep, or putting his arms around you at the arcade. Even at the point where you hug and kiss him and he tells you if your doing very special then you need to add more to it for the very part. Like he is in his 30s and makes these little boys seem useless. He is always dressed nice and sexy. Shoot if I could see a professor like that in my colleges I'd gladly go back to school.

Also he has his sweet and tender side like where he will get sparklers and step away from the crowd to be close to you and share your own connection. Or the fact some guys try to fuck with you and his possessiveness and protectiveness kick in and he is intimidating to the guys. Shoot this is a man that has a very dominate side and you can see it makes your mind wonder of what he could do to you. He even helps you win a stuffed animal at the arcade like this man is perfect he is definitely the man that could bring all the naughty professor vibes to play. I know alot of people hate that his is a shorter version than everyone else's route and yeah I wish it was longer however I get why its shorter to because unlike them that had to meet her and fall in love with you he already was. Him and Kazuma have already known your long enough so they dont per-say need to fall.

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Riku Nishijima

This man is sophisticated and professional but damn when he starts acting and gets passionate about his words he can captivate any heart especially with his smile. When you do his romance route you find he can be a jack of all trades. He will tease you to make you blush and be cute, he also likes the be mischievous and cheeky in his own way. He has a naughty boy side thats severely hot, he is jealous and possessive which possessive men are always hot. He likes cute things like milk and bananas together he is quiet lazy but to me I felt he was the closest to a all around guy with many sides. At some points he is the sad boy, sheltered rich kid and more. I can believe he does not get noticed as much as he should. Don't get me wrong in the beginning I didn't know if I would like him I mean yeah he is hot but he seemed to stiff.

However you find that his father being overly strict in everything he has done in acting has made him feel like this is what he has to be. His rough side the side of him you see his love of art is so adorably cute like his hair all roughed up and paint all over him yep thats hot. The mc is perfect she even admits that he is practically sexier in his real self more lazy than the prince charming façade he gives off. He can come of manipulative as well but I feel alot of that comes from his up bring from his dad to show biz itself. I feel like once you see his personality you find he is actually quiet cheeky and a bit of a naughty boy.

Like he has a good tolerance for sure the mc makes him wait like 2 years to even have sex that is absolutely crazy that poor man I mean least you know he ain't going no where when he doesn't leave in that time. I can't imagine why you would have this hot of a man at home and not want to be in bed with him. He has the cutest likes at a festival his eyes light up when it comes to eating cotton candy and for snacks he loves bananas and milk. Its kind of a cute combo and he likes being fed and he is too lazy to blow his own food. Its funny this might be red flags for some but the way he was when he admits he loves you makes sense. Like I love the end when he talks about having kids like omg this man takes my heart over and over again. He is the perfect amount of sexy, flirty, naughty, and sweet all together. to me there is no better bae or husbando in this game than him.

He knows how to be the cutest like for his birthday he talks about wanting matching tea cups absolutely adorable. I want to also take into play how his possessiveness is towards any guy however Sena just happens to get on his nerves fast with hittin on the mc. I honestly feel like if Sena pushed any harder I think Riku would punch him. His acting is amazing his artwork is too. You even get to see him with his father which is rocky but he stands up for the mc against him and anyone especially once he realizes he is in love. I love another part of the ending soon he don't mind his girl tying his hair up as if he was a little kid in how it looks to get it out of his eyes. This proves when he is in love thats it. Only thing I didn't like is they say he plans to travel when he graduates leaving her behind however if I caught it right at the very end they are practically saying that he plans to stay behind that year graduate the next when she does so they both can go overseas.

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Yukito Sena

The moment you meet this man his flirts begin but of course I love that in a love interest. Of course the MC isn't having it so when he chooses you to act with him in auditions this man takes it to a whole new level. He is sneaky and sly and down right sexy as hell. He even acts as he is groveling on the floor for you to let him kiss you and when you say ok you will be his he makes you say it all together and not as quick words. This is his slyness as a fox but oh so smooth, he has some mad game. I tell you it doesn't take long to want more of this man. The longer you play you realize there is so much more to him than modeling. Like due to his father being in showbiz and causing a image of himself as a playboy when Yukito steps into the spotlight its all people believe he is worthy of so not taken seriously. He becomes what everyone wants but yet still deep down he isn't like that. He has women who flirt and are all about him but he even admits later its more of a image or to get them more noticed in the spotlight etc.

He loves to flirt but he really is sweet about it and I think he grows to have feelings alot earlier on because finally someone sees him for more than the model and pawn everyone else sees. That being said its cute when he brings up often "Are you in love with me yet?" This is what makes it clear he is already smitten yet still trying to keep that image up. He wants and needs someone to push him and tell him when he needs to fix things and this is what makes him so intrigued with you. You can tell he does anything to get close even pretend to be your boyfriend when its supposed to push a girl away he isn't into yet you find any chance he gets he mentions oh were doing stuff like a real couple. Honestly I feel like everyone but the MC gets how in love he has fallen by this point.

The way he handles it when she blurts out they can't get any closer after he mentions wanting to kiss and then she says we can't you might be my brother. The look on his face like oh thats the only reason she didn't want to get close is because she thinks this. Don't get me wrong I think it was what the mc had to tell herself because I think she had fallen for him awhile back when she didn't expect it and all the emotions were coming to the top now. Honestly there was no way she was going back I'm afraid even if it had came out he was her brother, I do not know how long it would have kept them apart before that line would have been blurred due to both people in love with each other already.

Not gonna lie I'm glad there were a good amount of CG pictures and boy did he look hot as hell in everyone of them. I'm normally not into blondes but damn he can make any woman melt especially with that wink, smile, and look in his eyes. He is a naughty boy as well you realize that later when your together about how bad he wants you in every way. When he confesses to you he loves you and gets the reciprocation he has no problem setting it straight completely with the girl he works with that he is in no way interested or will he ever be and that he loves you. Its sweet he would make sure to do this in front of you letting you know how much you mean to him. One thing I thought was super sweet is earlier on you go out for a drink with him and he orders you a drink. Not knowing there is a meaning to that drink you just enjoy it and move on. Near the end of the story you find as you wait for him that the bartender tells you that the drink given to a woman by a man means the man is plainly saying "I'm in love with you and have fallen so fast". Like he was already trying to say it but had no idea how to.

I went in thinking he was just a flirt but he is a sweetheart underneath making it hard to get enough of him. The support you give him it seems to show that ya'll thrive so well together. I love he did everything he could to make sure he was by your side as much as he could even with his work schedule. He loves to spoil a woman he loves as well and although he would show her off in a heartbeat he also knows his job is hard and the women that make life harder would make it harder for you. He is caring, considerate and honestly the best boy yet. Also when he colors his hair dark damn this boy becomes smoking hot, and even his cute photo shoot pics and acting even when this boy is crying he makes you want to just hold him. He has such an amazing effect on not only the MC but you as you play it too.

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Kazuma Kamikubo

He is so cute when he gets flustered and yet he also knows how to be caring and sincere to you like worrying about how much sleep you have had or doing your makeup to make you feel better even though he already thinks your beautiful. He is the one who first comes out with a lie that comes back on you when he tells someone your his girlfriend because your in the wrong place at the wrong time snooping back stage. He covers your butt however he has to lie to do so. He always talks about being your big brother however it was too easy for him to snap out you were his girlfriend when he could have simply said something like sister. Then when things get complicated and everyone thinks your dating it doesn't take him long to say we should keep the lie going so things don't get to complicated at your work. He also is fast to flop down in your lap and pretend your his girlfriend. I felt like by this point in the story that he always thought of you as more than a friend but never thought he had a chance so he settled being your big brother while maybe his heart always pined for you.

He can sometimes be stubborn but he does have your best interest at heart. He will go the extra mile to make you smile and is caring of your feelings with the things he says. He honestly does connect on a deeper level I think than even others can because he has been there for so long in your life. He is like the cutest bean after he goes into pretending your his girlfriend this man puts on all breaks to the world. Granted he starts lacking at work but when you confront him since his boss comes to you about it he is so genuine. Like he goes into telling you he just wants to be on his phone looking up places he can take you as a couple. Also watching his texts to see if you need him or message him. When you ask why when he is at work and he says cause he is always thinking about you and how to make you happy. I kinda hate the MC for acting like his job is more important when this is something you don't see in many men and one of the things I love about this man. I mean yes I get the lacking at work but the conversation could have been handled differently he just wants to be a good boyfriend its sweet.

His first ideas of dating is to take you to hot springs and stargazing damn there is some deep romance in this man waiting to come out. He even goes into telling you one and only ex girlfriend didn't work out cause she said he was in love with someone else and you can guess who that person was. By this point I knew I was right from the beginning when I felt he just never thought he was good enough for you but always was in love with you. He even believes in paying for his woman on dates no half and half bullshit. He is the sweetest with wanting to do cute romantic tropes like him being early for the date and such damn he is so damn adorable. The first time you mention hanging out with any guy alone no matter the reason he asks you not and when he doesn't feel like your listening he snatches the phone and gets forceful with his voice and the word no. I'm not gonna lie he became hot as hell with the possessiveness and jealousy all together, damn boy just went from 7 on the scale of hot to a mere 15.

Even in his bad endings you get to find out that he can't see his life without you in it and doesn't want to either. Yes he is a bit competitive and selfish but I feel its from a good place because he is so afraid that he will lose you because you will leave him behind him and no longer need him. He admits he needs you in his life and that he is sorry he is weak and selfish. I find the fact he even knows when he might do things for the wrong reasons but in the end his heart is loyal and strong and would do anything for the woman he loves. The rest of the bad endings hurt me so I just don't want to go there again. However this boy right through to the end even when he loses his memory in a accident he still talks about being the man to make you happy. Like this is some loyal dedication and even in the bad endings when he didn't remember you he still wanted to marry you. The happy ending was my favorite though because he does your hair for bridal and practically tells you he is gonna marry you and he will do your hair then too. Such a sweetie he was my first in the game and I am so glad to because he was sweet, loyal, and wholesome in his own ways. He was the big brother/best friend/turned lover/boyfriend and he was sweet and caring about it. This is how a real big brother type should treat you (here's looking at you Toma from Amnesia sighs).

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Harumi Makino

You think when you first see him crying in a movie theater that he might actually be a decent guy but he rubs me wrong from the start. He is my least favorite guy and although I like tsunderes I just got more of him being withdrawn and not interested in women when I met him. As time goes on you find he is a rollercoaster like one minute you think he feels something then he shy's away and its really hard to keep up with him. His is a more hot and cold route and even though the last episode in the happy ending he was amazing it was getting to there. So between his route being boring at times and then his hot and cold made it hard to fully love him. I loved his nerdy cosplay side that shit is adorable to me. Not to mention he is hot in a nerdy way. When he does cosplay though he floored me he was so damn hot then.

It was cute later when he showed more flustering when he liked the mc. He isn't a horrible character in anyway just to me he was the one that was the hardest to get into. Once you get further in his route it does get better. Also when you see he has a naughty side omg this man can turn you on in seconds with his dominant possessive side. That was the side of him I found to be the most attractive. All in all I can't write as much about him however I do think I have seen much worse characters. Also I know he is supposed to be played 3rd but honestly nothing in his story really is that important that you really can't play any time.

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[jokers-diamond]

He's trying to hide it, but Nightwing is very very clearly smiling wide. "Just when I think I'm out, ya pull me back in!"

"Ya nevah gettin' rid a' me, Birdie!!!" It's somehow the sweetest, most menacing way she could've ever been sweet to him. Grin just as wide as she takes a running start, to hop up and wrap her arms around his neck. Thighs comfortably on his hips; no assistance needed on his part!

...It may say something to how often she's pounced him like this. Harley would neither confirm nor deny if asked.

"Besides, I'd nevah wantcha...out a' me," Harl purrs with a wink. He probably should've predicted that one...

[clairethecutepup]

When Dawn Comes after Dusk... (An Ed Edd n' Eddy Darkfic)

**Viewer Discretion Advised: the following is a fanfiction of a “Dark Fic” nature, in which it hosts a darker tone than what the actual franchise often provides. Fitting, as it was inspired by this “Dark Fic” of the Ed Edd n Eddy show: When the Morning Comes, by one “Happy_As_A_Clam,” which also requires a “VDA” for inclusions of r*pe. There is no detailing scene within this tale, though there’s brief mention of a character witnessing the events, before everyone finds out via the hidden camera within Eddy’s room.

Speaking of “this tale,” it serves as an alternate reality to the fanfiction, where Claire exists and where Eddy… “escapes” his shame and fear of what’s to come, now that all will know him as his brother’s personal f*ckboy. So, what once started out as a fun practice in writing drama now becomes an actual fanfiction to share, in honor of one of the few stories to ever stick with me, so long after reading. Now, if you’re brave enough, and can withstand the mentions of sexual victimizations and all else, venture forth into one canon character’s perspective on the entire aftermath…

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My name is Jimmy, I'm best friends with Sarah and Claire is a good friend to both of us. Recently, we found out that Eddy's brother did something... unspeakable to him. Even though we all saw it, upon the secret camera within Eddy's room that we planned to use against him instead, none of us could comprehend that such a thing could have been committed. We had successfully retrieved Eddy, thanks to the efforts of Ed and Double Dee specifically, and all stayed with him at Kevin's, to ensure that monstrous sibling wouldn't be able to commit further atrocities. Unfortunately... Eddy managed to take his own life, by means of Kevin's kitchen knife, while we were all asleep. He couldn't handle everyone knowing that he was a victim to such horrors... I could never blame him, as I don't know if I'd be able to live after such an experience, let alone with everyone knowing me as the one defiled by another.

Claire knew about it all, however... Yet, she said nothing. When she confessed to it, after breaking down from Eddy’s departure... I had to help pull Sarah off her, while Ed and Nazz also assisted; as for with Rolf, he'd be stopped by Double Dee, Johnny and Kevin. But, she was possibly as much a victim, if you stop and consider the presented facts... Would any of us have been brave enough to spout information that would surely see them the next target of that heinous brute? For goodness sake, what if he decided to practice... less "incestuous" means with her, as his revenge? We didn't even know if Eddy knew about her own knowledge and begged her to remain silent, just as he tried to deny everything and acted distressed after we found out.

In fact, we don't even know if Eddy's horrible brother knew himself, and he directly bought her silence with threats and what-have-you... She had no time to explain, Sarah and Rolf simply pounced, then she was thrown out and it was made clear to keep her distance from us for a while. Claire, I'm sorry... Is it any wonder that you did what came next?

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We all fell silent in the Cul-De-Sac, as we watched the Kanker Sisters march forward: Lee is taking the usual lead, while her sibling lackeys follow behind. However, there's a different air to her: an angry Lee is always worth concern, but the way she storms toward Eddy's home and... what she clenched... Not to mention, May and Marie seemed equally on edge: May was trembling and completely horrified, while Marie was silent and glancing over her shoulder. I could see why, that accursed item Lee held: a knife that had been used, but not for food...

"WHERE ARE YOU, YOU SICK BASTARD?!" Lee kicks open the front door, "You think you can do all that to my man-- and especially make him die over it?!"

She storms inside, while her sisters follow, and we can only imagine the hell that would soon be raised within that once peaceful abode. We all figured they had found out about Eddy's victimization; yet, none of us knew who told them... I certainly wouldn't, as I knew they'd forego just shooting the messenger and kill the unfortunate soul instead. Wait... "Kill"... The knife...

May rushes up, "L-Lee…? Are we really going to do this...?"

"I sure hope we are," Marie comments, "That fucker deserves everything we're gonna do to him. If he could do it to Lee’s man, why couldn't he end up doing the same to our men, too? Hell, what's to stop him from doing it to one of us, eventually...?"

We wondered what all they planned to do to Eddy’s brother: perhaps a more severe version of the usual beating-- or even worse. That was the most logical assumption, given the circumstances. The Kankers return outside: Lee is in the lead, with May and Marie behind her, and their expressions are grimmer than before.

"Can't believe he's not in there..." Lee growls, "Must've figured out that shit was gonna hit the fan, now that people would be asking why his brother up and killed himself... That blonde twerp's confession can at least help us with that much, but I hope she's already in Hell to greet him when it's his turn."

"L-Lee, we're already gonna get into enough trouble for that creep..." May gulps, "D-Did you really have to do that to her, too...? W-We could've just beaten her up for it, e-especially so she could tell everyone else, too..."

"About that, Lee," Marie adds, "maybe we should go on the run ourselves, after that? You didn't even give us a chance to, y'know, hide her... They're probably calling the police over there already."

"It's her own damn fault!" Lee roars, "What did she think would happen, keeping her damn mouth shut the entire time?! If anything, she's lucky we've got bigger fish to fry 'cause of this!"

"B-But Lee..." May gulps, "W-What if there might've been some reason--"

"That's enough, May!" Lee snarls, "Girls, we're heading out and not looking back-- especially not until we find that miserable, sick FUCK and put him six feet under!! Come on!"

She spots us all.

"The hell are all of you staring at?! Beat it, and you don't tell anyone you saw us, got it?!"

We all looked at each other and silently agreed to comply; there was no need to get involved with the Kankers' business... And, the less we knew about what they'd been and would be up to, the better. So, we all turn away and head home for cover. I had no idea that it wouldn't be the last we'd see of them...

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I sat in Sarah's room, as her home was closer than mine and thus the quicker place of refuge. My mind torments me, as I can't shake away the sickening feeling that this won't be the end of our troubles. Especially not with... what they said: the knife truly had been used on another, prior to the intended target that's Eddy's brother, and the mentioning of a "blonde twerp." We hadn't seen Claire, since she was thrown out of Kevin's house, after we called the ambulance for Eddy's body... Could it be...? I feel a shuddering chill crawl up my spine, as I ponder such an awful possibility.

"Sarah, we shouldn't be sitting here..." I suddenly say, "We need to go to the trailer park..."

"Why?"

"Sarah, I just feel like we should..."

She gave me a strange look, but the urgency in my eyes convinced her well enough. Besides, the Kankers clearly wouldn't be awaiting us there, as they needed to perform their hunt for that sick scoundrel. When we finally got there, I could see why May and Marie were so uneasy, and why the knife was slightly reddened already: a repeatedly stabbed Claire lays on the ground. How has no one taken notice of her yet?!

"O-Oh my... Oh my..."

That's all Sarah can squeak out, while I can only cover my mouth.

"Claire, Claire!!" Sarah runs, "GET UP!!"

A complete 180 from her previous attitude that night, but who could blame her? Even if Claire earned some deserved frustrations for keeping quiet, she didn't deserve Lee's vicious wrath-- especially when I know Claire wouldn't keep quiet about something horrible, without good reason. I can't even be disgusted about what she did myself, at this point. I walk up behind Sarah and gently put my hand on her shoulder. She's shaking, and I don't blame her... I'm still shaking myself and having tears fall.

"S-Sarah, I-I..." I whimper, "W-We should call someone..."

Sarah doesn't respond, as she looks upon Claire's body, and I take out my cell phone.

"No, no, no..." Sarah begs, "Claire, we've already lost Eddy... Please... I-I didn't mean it, w-what I said... Just, open your eyes..."

She wasn't dead, fortunately, but she was certainly comatose.

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We all stood in her hospital room, beside her bed: Nazz, Kevin, Rolf, Double Dee, Ed, Johnny, Sarah and I. When they heard everything from us, it seemed Sarah wasn't the only one prone to a complete flip of attitude.

"I can't believe we kicked her out and didn’t even think to go after her, after all that…” Nazz sighs, “We didn't even give her a chance to explain why she kept quiet… I mean, she wouldn't just be fine with something... something like that happening, even if we were all upset with Eddy, right?"

Sarah won't stop sobbing into me...

"I'm sorry..." she whimpers, "I'm so sorry... I'm a terrible friend..."

"You're not, Sarah..." I pat her shoulder, "I also found it upsetting that she stayed silent..."

"But you didn't try to basically do this yourself, Jimmy!! I just leapt at her, even though she's supposed to be our friend... At least you tried to stop me..."

"W-What even happened...?" Kevin finally chokes out, "Did... did she just walk up to their trailer and blab everything, then Lee just lost it...? Dammit, she was stupid enough to admit she knew something about it, wasn't she...? GODDAMMIT, CLAIRE!! Why the hell didn't you just tell them that it was Eddy's sick asshole of a brother; why did you have to say anything about yourself?!"

There's no denying Kevin's right... I did have my fears about them "killing the messenger," but I spoke in exaggeration: in actuality, I considered it more of a near-death experience to be had, I never imagined they'd literally try murdering the person who told them. If anything, they'd at least be grateful enough to let their temporary and partial scapegoat live another day, as thanks for relaying such information about one of their "lover's" demise and torment. Claire had to have told them she was of a guilty conscience. Why else would Lee go so far, instead of just portraying the usual Kanker-style beatdown?

"... S-So, d-did he threaten her or something...?" Johnny asks, "O-Or, maybe Eddy didn't want her to say anything and made her stay quiet...? H-He did seem really upset and even freaked out about us knowing. I-It could've been because he knew we'd definitely tell everyone what happened to him..."

"I don't know..." Kevin tightens his fists, "But what I do know is we shouldn't have blamed her for what Eddy did to himself... This, ALL OF THIS SHIT, is on that asshole brother of his. He was the guy causing all of Eddy's problems, he was the one who'd also want to keep things under wraps... Even if Claire came clean, there's no guarantee all of this shit would've been magically fixed or even kept from happening. Eddy could've... still done it, since there's no reason he'd feel any less ashamed about it-- even though it wasn't even his fault!!"

I look at Double Dee, the only one, other than Ed, remaining silent; however, I can see the tears rolling down his face, as he watches Claire's unconscious form...

"Double Dee...?"

He's startled and looks at me.

"I-I... I must be honest..." he trembles, "I-I had a feeling that Claire might've taken drastic action, with the apparent guilt and how our reactions might not have helped... I-I should've gone after her, b-but I couldn't break free from the gripping turmoil of Eddy's self-induced passing..."

"Don't blame yourself, Double Dee..." Kevin sighs, "Like I said, if anyone’s to blame for this, it's Eddy's brother. He's the one who should've gotten his ass put down for doing what he did, no one else deserves to pay for all of his sick shit!! Besides, you're not the only one who decided against following after her..."

Sarah suddenly walks out of the room, and I immediately follow her: I don't want her to be alone with her thoughts, as I can imagine them being quite dark.

"Sarah, are you alright...?"

"Are you serious, Jimmy; did you really just ask me if I'm 'alright'?!! Do I look like I am?! Eddy's dead, Claire might be next-- and so far, it looks like that sick asshole got away with it all!!"

"I-I just..." I rub my arm, "I'm concerned about you, Sarah..."

She sighs.

"I-I'm sorry, Jimmy... I just... I can't believe this is all happening..."

"I understand, Sarah..." I approach her and put my hand on her shoulder, "I wish I could say things will get better, but I honestly don't know..."

"She better be fine, we're owed that much, at least... Knowing Eddy killed himself hurts enough, but I'll really lose it if Claire goes, too! She always followed us around and... Jimmy, it'd honestly feel like if I lost you…"

"Sarah, we can't give up hope," I give her a hug, "I'm sure she'll be fine, she's in the best care right now. Besides, the Kankers might've gotten Eddy's brother and dealt him a proper, Kanker-styled retribution..."

She doesn't reply... I can only pray that Eddy's brother will pay for what he's done, and that Claire will be okay. ... And, that she'll forgive us all. We're willing to do so with her, after all, so long as her answer isn't simply: "I just hated Eddy and was glad it happened." Obviously, that won’t be the response she'd give, with how distraught she was, and how willingly she allowed Sarah and Rolf to attack her. She even let Lee stab her to near death...

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It's been a few days, and Claire has woken up. However, it isn't without consequences... When we all arrived, it was a horrible sight: nurses tried to hold her down and calm her, as she cried out about still being alive. I honestly doubt the "threats" of using an injective sedative really helped, given her needle-based phobia is stronger than Kevin's... I couldn't just stand by, so I grabbed Sarah and walked us over to help. Sarah and I do know how to best calm her down, as we've the most experience with our childlike companion. As we get closer, we can see Claire is trying to yank out her IV needle and get out of bed.

"Hey, hey, hey, hey, no...!" I call out, "Claire, stop...!"

At first, she's panicked to see us all again, but Sarah and I remedy that quickly: we both gently hold her hands, while I rest a hand on the side of her face and Sarah atop her head, before we coo the usual soothing tones that appease her so. She stops struggling and crying, as we slowly succeed in our endeavors. Just as Sarah says, she really is “too easy” sometimes... I think hearing us in our usual, friendlier tones helped ease her tension, since it gave off the impression we weren't angry anymore. I certainly hope it did, as none of us are.

"See...? It's okay, Claire..." Sarah sighs, "We didn’t come here to blow up on you again..."

"We're here for you, Claire," I add, "We’re more concerned about you than what you did, right now..."

She's just shaking now, but she's not crying out anymore. Still, that heart rate monitor is rather high... It goes a little higher, after she spots everyone else. In all honesty, it's probably for the best that only Sarah and I are in the same room, since we’re better equipped to help her remain calm... Besides, I can see Double Dee is still quite upset, and Kevin's still visibly angered-- but that's more at the events, than anything else. I politely tell everyone to step out for a moment, leaving it as just Sarah, Claire and myself.

"Claire, we're really not mad at you anymore," Sarah sighs, "we just wish you told us what happened, instead of being quiet about it... Maybe, if we knew what was happening, we could've tried to help Eddy sooner..."

Oh darn it all, Sarah... I know you meant well, but that's perhaps not the best wording... Poor Claire starts panicking and trying to get out of bed again! Sarah and I quickly stop her, before she can hurt herself.

"Sarah, please be more careful with your words!" I exclaim, "She's very fragile right now!!"

"Hey, I didn't mean it like that, Jimmy...!" Sarah cries, "I was just saying…! I didn’t mean it like it was her fault, I'm just saying that we thought things could've been different, that's all..."

"Sarah, please, refrain from 'what-ifs' right now...!" I retorted, "They're not helping!"

Sarah decides it best to remain quiet, and I'm afraid I must agree with the decision... Fortunately, I'm a bit more mindful with my words. A few soothing motions of Claire's hair, and my combing fingers manage to help settle things down again.

"Claire, please... It's okay, calm yourself... We're not saying this is your fault, Eddy's brother is to blame. Speaking of that devil, you're safe from both the Kankers and whatever threat he might've been, so you can tell us everything now... No one's mad at you anymore, so please, just settle down..."

She's still tense, but it's far less than before.

"Look, Claire..." Sarah sighs, "We all get there had to be a reason you stayed quiet, but you need to tell us why you didn't just say something... So, why?"

"Whatever reason you have, we won't judge," I add, "It's not as though you simply wanted Eddy to suffer, right...?"

"NO!!"

"Claire, please, calm down," I start stroking her head again and shushing her, "I didn't mean that as an accusation, I promise…! Now please, tell us why you were quiet about all this. Take your time, we're fine with an eventual answer, instead of an instant one..."

Claire finally found it in herself to share everything... including how she found out. Claire had apparently witnessed the events, while she was returning something Sarah forgot at her own home. She was on her way to Sarah and Ed's house, when she heard Eddy screaming: "No, stop, I-I can't do this right now-- SERIOUSLY!!" Despite how we all currently felt, due to his behavior lately, Claire couldn't deny it sounded quite horrible and ran to the nearby window. It was partially opened, so she could hear as much as she could see: there stood Eddy's brother, as he threatened his younger sibling into silence, with that forsaken switchblade... The same exact one responsible for many of Eddy's eventually discovered scars.

The brute seemed to favor Eddy's own room as the means of his... torment's location. Possibly, so Eddy could always be reminded that even within his own home, within his own private sanctuary, his brother is always capable of having him at his mercy... Victimizers do so love to exert power, however possible. Claire had snuck her way into the backyard, after she heard mention of Eddy's bedroom, and when she watched through the corner of that partially blinded sliding glass door... Oh goodness, I can't imagine the horrors of having to witness it all a second time, on that hidden camera we planned to find humiliating ammunition against Eddy with, as petty revenge toward his poor behavior. No wonder the poor thing was more distraught than the rest of us...

"... I-If I said anything," Claire whimpers, "h-he could've found out I’m where the r-rumors came from... I-I was afraid to even say anything to Eddy 'cause his brother might've known from him, a-and Eddy might've been upset, too... I-If I just went to the police or told their parents, th-there could've been the chance they wouldn't believe me, s-since no one really takes male-on-male stuff as seriously and especially between brothers-- and th-then he'd definitely know... A-And if he knew... I-I don't think he'd just kill me, m-maybe he'd r-rape me, too, b-but I dunno why I should've cared w-what happened to me... I-I definitely deserve anything n-now..."

Oh... Oh, goodness gracious... We really didn’t have a right to be as upset with Claire as we were: who among us wouldn't dread the idea of that vile fiend tracing those words back to the source, then do some manner of unspeakable horror to them for exposing him? If he was willing to violate and scar his own younger sibling, what would stop him, indeed, from subjecting a small and non-familial girl to the horrors of injury and rape-- what could even stop him from full-on murder? Not to mention, she's sadly right about another key detail: most fail to realize that a male can be the victim of sexual assault, even by another man and even a man of similar blood, and it's always less likely to get attention than when a female victim is announced...

"Claire, you should care about what happens to you!!" Sarah retorts, "It's only natural, and he could've even decided to go after your family, or even me and Jimmy, not just you! Knowing an asshole like him, he'd have done whatever he could've to make you regret trying to say anything! Besides, even if you did say something after all... I don't think even we’d believe you, if we didn't see it ourselves..."

Good, it seems Sarah's words are doing less harm, finally...

"Sarah's right, Claire," I add, "there was nothing you could've done, without potentially putting yourself and others in danger. We may be upset that you stayed quiet about all of this, but I can see why you chose to... No one could ever blame you for considering the dangers-- especially if it could've all been for naught, from the admitted unbelievability it'd have without visual proof."

"I-I'm sorry..." she starts crying, "I-I didn't want it to get bad enough to where Eddy had to..."

"Shhh, shhh, shhh... It's okay, Claire..." I sigh, "It's not your fault and never will be, you're not to blame for any of this. Remember, there's only one person who put all of this in motion and he did so, the moment he first subjected poor Eddy to those horrors..."

Sarah and I then help distract Claire, so a nurse can apply an injectable sedative to help the poor thing calm down into a more stable and comfortable state. After all, it's best to let her get some rest, and I'm sure we could all use it, too. However, I do make the mental note to keep an eye on her, as guilt may see her risk another dangerous venture, just like whatever occurred between her and the Kankers. The last thing Sarah and I want to do, or anyone else, is repeat the mistake of turning our backs onto someone meant to be a cherished friend...

When Sarah and I relay the information to everyone else, their guilt clearly increases. I suppose, in a way, we were all too focused on the idea that Claire had “betrayed” us, so we failed to see things from her perspective. It wouldn't be easy to be in her shoes, and we should've known better than to act like we'd foolishly assume she'd gleefully sit back and allow such misfortunes to occur. Thankfully, everyone else is just as willing to help Sarah and I with her, and also Eddy's parents. We want to ensure they know what happened to their son, so they can take the proper steps to hold Eddy's brother accountable. It won't bring Eddy back, but at least we'll have some peace of mind, knowing that justice will be served. Assuming the Kankers hadn't already done away with the fiend, of course. I honestly don't care either way, I simply hope that justice will make that scoundrel beg for mercy.

As for Claire... Well, we're not about to repeat Eddy's situation, so we'll do all that we can to grant her whatever support she'll need. Little did we know, she'd need more than that: she'd need protection-- and not just from her guilty mind...

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

Claire was finally allowed to leave the hospital, and Sarah and I are especially by her side. In fact, everyone else is a bit hesitant to face her right now-- especially Rolf, who helped in that delivered beating --so Sarah and I were the ones to bring her back home. Honestly, I doubt Claire had much choice in the matter, as Sarah and I weren't going to chance a second opportunity to lose her. Word had also spread around, leaving no pair of ears ignorant to the horrors that Eddy had endured-- especially not that of his parents.

The poor couple... Just imagine, having to hear that one of your children took their own life, all because the other one performed such atrocities on them? Perhaps it'd be more than Claire that warranted everyone's watchful eye... At the very least, Eddy's father promised to do his own part in ensuring his remaining son faces the proper consequences. As for us, it was soon time to face our own 'punishment': Eddy's brother may as well have known about Claire and actually threatened her, with what he did next.

It was the situation you'd expect: nightfall to cover the landscape and blanket any prowling fiends into invisibility, while three hapless victims are left alone, within one of their homes. We all stayed within mine, as I figured a few slices of my famous chocolate fudge cake, with whipped cream and cherries, would help take all our minds off the prior events. I thought I saw something through the window, but I was alone on the matter and thus dismissed it. Then, when we entered the living room to further ease our minds with some relaxing programming... He stood there, shutting the door behind him. H-He must’ve picked my lock… I wouldn’t put any other criminalistic behaviors and abilities past him.

"YOU?!" I yell, "Wh-What're YOU doing here?!"

"Word on the street is," Eddy's brother begins, "I apparently had some kind of 'relations' with my brother and I’m why that no-neck chump decided to give himself an early grave. I don't know about you guys, but I don't exactly take kindly to nasty little rumors about me..."

"It wasn't a rumor, you sick creep!" Sarah snarls, "You better be here to turn yourself in...!"

"Actually, I've got a better idea: if I gotta go down, why not take the people responsible with me?" the fiend points that accursed blade toward Claire, "I had a feeling you wised on, Squirt... It's pretty odd, when a girl starts acting different around a guy: suddenly going from nervous to scared shitless, whenever I entered the room, and I caught glimpses of how you'd stare at Eddy, like you wanted to tell him something-- something that's a little on the personal side... Doesn't exactly help, when I could've sworn I saw a familiar little blonde head peeking around those bedroom curtains. Yeah, you're not as slick as you think, Pipsqueak, so how about I help reunite you with that other one? It'd be your perfect chance to apologize for failing to do jack-shit for him... Don't worry, I decided on being nice enough to send your two pals here to Hell, too, so you don't have to face him alone 'cause I just really appreciate you ratting me out like that. Lucky for me, I managed to catch you all together here..."

"You stay the hell away from us!!" Sarah shields our friend, "It's your own fault that you're in deep shit; none of this would've happened if you weren't treating Eddy the way you did! She didn't even need to say anything for us to find out, we saw everything from Double Dee's camera!"

"Oh, was it a nice show?" the fiend smirks, "Looks like I'm not the only 'sick freak,' when the rest of you are just as eager to get, or see, a little 'Eddy action.'"

"That's not why we had it here..." Sarah grits her teeth, "In fact, it's none of your business why, all you need to know is that you're toast, Mister!"

"Oh, so it wasn't just that little bitch who opened her mouth then, huh: it was all of Pipsqueak's little buddies that decided to rat me out? Can't say I'm not exactly surprised, when it comes to that unibrow-ed dumbass or that transvestite with the beanie; but I was sure the rest of you would be cheering me on."

"Eddy might've been a real fathead lately..." Sarah clenches her fists, "But fathead or not, NO ONE deserves to be treated the way you did to him!!"

"D-Don't make things w-worse for yourself...!" I finally choke out, "Y-You're already going to be h-held accountable for E-Eddy's suicide a-and everything else, a-adding in w-whatever you plan for us w-will likely only make it a-a literal death sentence!"

"Hey, I only wanna make it all feel completely worth it," Eddy's brother shrugs, "is that really so bad? But don't worry, I'll work as fast as I can, so you can all be together again sooner."

I instinctively scream, as he charges; Sarah grabs the nearby lamp and braces herself; and Claire runs back into the kitchen. I didn't know what to do, I could only just stand there and watch Sarah duel that horrid neanderthal... Despite her fierce and formidable strength, Sarah is capable of meeting her match-- and Eddy's brother proves no exception. Thank goodness she's not being easily overpowered, but she's not exactly doing so to him, either... I can't just keep standing here, I need to help somehow! Wait, my cell phone! I pull it out and immediately dial the proper authorities.

"Ah, ah, ah, Twink-Boy," Eddy's brother warns, before knocking me down, "This's supposed to be a private party we're having..."

Oh, shoot! I should've run off, just as Claire did, first... I just didn't want to leave Sarah's side, in this time of extreme danger. I hope our smaller friend did run off to call for help herself, she wouldn't be so heartless as to toss us aside, in favor of her own skin. Oh dear, I'm about to lose MINE...!!

"Jimmy!!" Sarah raises to her knees, from the couch's shattered remains, "Get off of him!!"

My would-be savior is badly hurt, I don't think she'll be able to stop this brute...

"Alright, Twinkie..." the fiend pins me by the neck, "You managed to handle losing all your teeth once, just fine, so let's see if the same can go for a little blood loss..."

I shut my eyes and brace for the inevitable pain of pierced skin, something I doubt even all my years of injury could have me easily endure... But, he’s the one to be screaming out in agony instead. Claire jammed one of my own knives in between his shoulder blades, then she hit his turning face with one of my picture frames. I'll admit, I'm not happy to see fonder memories made bloodier, but better them savaged than our very beings!

He forgets about me entirely, focused only on his bringer of pain: he tackles her and pins her down, pressing the blade to her neck...

"You wanna die first, Pipsqueak...? Fine by me..."

I-I can't stand by anymore...!! Sarah, I had the excuse of her being able to hold her own ground and how I'd possibly only make myself more of a hindrance, but Claire's strength isn't on the same level...

"Leave us alone already, you vile brute!!" I hug his knife-wielding arm, "We'll even refrain from getting the police involved, if you just--"

Sadly predictable, I'm easily cast aside and left to bounce among the floor. I scream out for my friend, fearing a knife will finally claim her life-- until Sarah regains a second wind: she roars, her hands grabbing hold of and her teeth digging into the assailant's arm, perhaps the only amount of strength she's able to still muster. Eddy's brother cries out again, trying to free himself through his other hand.

"GET... OFF... ME... YOU BARRACUDA BITCH!!"

Sarah's teeth are possibly her only other terrifying feature, aside from those powerful fists. Knowing her, that arm won't be able to help torment us any further. Now's my chance to finally be of better use to them both... I may have my weaker moments, more often than naught, but I can truly show my own ferocity whenever needed!! This isn't just for the sake of Sarah and Claire, not even for my own sake nor the others who'll be targeted next... This is also for EDDY!! I let out my own cry and lock his neck within my arms, with all the strength I can muster!

"Get off me, you annoying--!!!"

Claire regains herself and joins in, grabbing the dropped knife and placing that one into the front of his right shoulder. It seemed we'd be victorious, especially with such strong injuries upon him, but it only seemed to delay the inevitable... I'm slammed into the wall and made to release him; Claire's face endures a nasty punch and she falls, her head bouncing off the coffee table; while Sarah's skull seems to become cracked itself, after a nasty headbutt from that brute, before her target tosses her aside!

"You don't seem to get it, do you...?" that horrid man growls, towering over us all, "I’m the one who calls the shots, and I especially don't take shit from runts like you... Not little blondie down there, not that dumbass' brat of a sister, not some closeted fag... Not even little fuckboys, like Eddy. What I say goes, and if you all can't handle that, then do me a favor and follow Pipsqueak's example, would ya? It'll certainly make things less annoying for me."

No... No, this certainly can't be it... Are we really doomed to die against this brute, to let him further hurt others and deny Eddy any justice? I don't know what else we can do now... Eddy, please forgive us: for originally wanting to hurt you further ourselves in petty revenge, for Claire's inability to step forward, for our failure to stop your drastic actions and properly help you recover, and now for our seeming failure to stop this brute and bring him to justice. In fact, I'm sorry, everyone else... You'll all be next, and not even Rolf or Kevin could possibly stop this fiend. But, there is someone who can-- three of them.

"There you are!!"

We all, save for the knocked out Claire, turn toward that voice. I never thought I'd be overjoyed to see the ruthless, enraged faces of the Kanker Sisters...

"See?" Marie points, "I told you I was sure he was heading back home..."

"Thought you could get away with it, huh?" Lee snarls, "Thought you could just up and run, never finally gettin' what you deserve for what you did to my man?!"

"Y-You three..." Eddy's brother backs away, "Y-You've been tailing me...?"

Even someone like him knows that there is no greater fury Hell itself can have than a Kanker scorned... Or, in mourning.

"Why wouldn't we?!" Lee continues, "A little birdie told us what you did, and now that I'm long done with her, it's your turn..."

Sarah and I crawl over to Claire, and cover her with our bodies. I don't think Sarah wants to take any risk of Lee wanting to finish such a dastardly job, either, if she sees Claire is still among us...

"You might wanna make this easy and just give up..." Marie adds, "You already look pretty beaten up..."

"What're you doing back here, anyway?!" May demands, "Were you planning on taking our men away from us, too?!"

Eddy's brother sneers in our direction, before he points over to us.

"By 'little birdie,' you mean that little blonde twerp over there? Sh-She's still kicking and everything, so I-I wouldn't exactly say you're ‘done’ with her... I mean, she knew everything, remember?!"

Oh no, even if it's not some desperate attempt to somehow distract them and make his getaway, he might still be able to at least take one of us down with him!! Lee's looking this way...

"Leave her alone, Lee!" Sarah yells, "You know he'd do something to her, and everyone she cared about, if he ever found out about her saying anything-- he’s even doing it right now! It's that asshole who's responsible for what Eddy did, more than anyone else: he's the one who did all of that and he'd do whatever it'd take to keep it hidden...!"

"Please, you've already dealt with her!" I add, "It might've been too late; but she at least told you everything you'd need to know, so you could avenge Eddy-- even if it meant the end of her own life...!"

"Later, Lee," Marie reminds, "I don’t wanna forget about this guy..."

Sarah and I don't look... No matter how deserving he is, neither of us want to see anything worse from the Kankers than whatever past cruelties they’d commit. They stand over him, with Lee's blade finally having found a more suitable life to claim. Now, it was time for Claire's additional judgment...

"Please..." I whimper, "Please, d-don't..."

"... Lee, I-I don't think you should..." May finally speaks, "Sure, y-you have every right to be mad at her, b-but i-it was already bad enough the first time..."

I suppose May always had seemed like the least... heinous of the three, but it still surprises me that she'd be concerned for anyone within the Cul-De-Sac who's not her dear Ed.

"... I mean, it's your call, really..." Marie adds, "But, I don't really see much of a point. Like these twerps said: she might've kept her mouth shut, but we all know that creep down there's the one who really started all of this... Besides, you already made a point-- no pun intended --that she needs to start talking about whatever shit's going down, right?"

Is... Marie also trying to convince Lee from actually taking Claire's life? Kankers or not, I suppose even they have some sense of what might be "too far," or at least when they're not seething with personal rage themselves. Sarah and I give Lee a final pleading gaze, as she stares past us and down at the friend we're trying to shield. If only her eyes weren't always covered, then we may have an idea of what's to come...

"... You know what, fine," she eventually huffs, "Marie's right, I already taught that twerp not to keep her damn mouth shut about shit like this. I guess I can also trust her to not do anything else to cause trouble, while this guy would likely keep doing whatever the hell he felt like-- how many people he ends up hurting and whoever it is be damned..."

"So, what now, Lee?" Marie asks, "The hunt's pretty much over..."

"... Marie, you and May take care of yourselves."

"Uh, what's that supposed to mean...?"

"Oh no..." May gasps, "L-Lee, y-you're not gonna 'follow' Eddy, a-are...?"

"Don't be ridiculous!" Lee huffs, "All I'm saying is: they're gonna be looking for the one who put this freak six-feet-under, as well as whoever's responsible for that past handiwork on the twerp over there, right? I don't see any reason why we all gotta go down, when I’m the one who did most of the work."

"Y-You can't do that either, Lee...!" May whimpers, "W-We need you..."

"Trust me, May, you and Marie can live without me for a while; even for the rest of your lives, if you have to. Plus, there's always 'visitation,' right?" Lee then turns to us, "If the cops ask, it was all me, got it?!"

Sarah and I quickly nod, before watching May and Marie leave, per Lee's instructions. I can finally dial the police without issue, as Claire failed to do so with my kitchen's mounted phone. I can't bring myself to be upset with her, however, especially when any longer in there would've likely meant my demise earlier... Once again, we're forced to witness an ambulance come and take her away; although, Sarah is injured enough to ride alongside her, while I follow after within a police vehicle. Lee's joining us, as well, though clearly in a more restrained manner.

Once we're properly seated within Claire and Sarah's room, Sarah and I tell them everything: how that brute was motivated by revenge for us spreading word of his heinous crimes, how Lee-- and "only" her --holds any relation to Claire's previous hospital visit, and how our friends can also help confirm our claims. They'll likely find out about this situation, one way or another, so may as well inform them now and have ourselves help each other through this madness sooner...

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

Time has passed, and everyone seems to have returned to a sense of "normal," or as close as can be. Eddy's brother has finally earned his just desserts, even if some would argue that it'd be more fitting to see him rot within a prison cell than the ground below. I pray that Eddy's soul can finally find peace and perhaps move onto a better afterlife... I certainly hope his parents can be as fortunate with a more mental peace, everyone knows it hasn't been easy on the poor things; but their resolve is admirable and it's likely they'll be able to "move on," eventually. Regardless, they needed to move away from the Cul-De-Sac and start fresh, and none of us could blame them. As for the rest of us...

Double Dee and Ed also shared the most of our concerns, in regards to Eddy's resulting absence, but they manage to stay strong and overcome the occasional sessions of repeated grief. If anything, as cliche as it may sound, I'd say the event brought them closer together, now that they're what remains of their once-trio. I like to imagine that Eddy is still present among them and still joining in on their endeavors, as the Eds always did seem to have a bond that could survive anything, even if one life couldn't do so itself.

Then, there's Claire: I think she'll always be haunted by that "what-if" scenario of opening up sooner, but we'll never be the reason that thought remains alive in her head. After all, who can really say how much difference it would have truly made: perhaps an ashamed Eddy would've taken his life sooner, if word had gotten out quicker, and his vile sibling would sooner have committed that dastardly attempt on her life (and possibly ours) for speaking out? Perhaps, that fiend would have even been successful in his endeavors, by means of waiting until she was alone, in that alternate reality... It's among what Sarah and I will always tell her, what any of us would, but the slightness of any guilt will always remain. At the very least, she seems to understand that we all forgive her and dwelling upon the matter won't undo all that's happened.

As for Sarah and myself, traumatic as it all was and especially with the addition of our own potential demises, we've managed to move on, as well. I've decided to finally achieve the slight dream of mine to become well-built, so I can better protect the people I care about and never allow another victory to some other fiend that could be chased off instead. I needed Sarah's help in lifting several dumbbell bars off my throat or when I'd tip over while raising one overhead, before a painful sandwiching in between the colliding side-weights; but I could easily join Claire in her workouts, soon enough. I'd say the events also motivated her in becoming strong enough to stand even with any threat, and even Sarah took her own means of improving combative abilities: she's gone from ballet lessons to judo ones, so she can, "make them more [properly] vulnerable, then really let them have it!" Sarah already does have basic strength covered, after all.

As for everyone else, they're also doing better these days. Johnny would "talk to an invisible ghost of Eddy," just as he would with Plank (now retired to the bedroom, if interested), as his own means of coping; but he'd eventually claim, "Eddy finally got tired of sticking around and decided to get on with his afterlife," though not without mentioning "his" proper wishes of farewell to us all. Kevin eventually acquired a tattoo in Eddy's honor: the typical, fancy lettering of the name, within a jawbreaker, the item Eddy often seemed to love more than cash itself. Nazz always ensures to mention Eddy's name in her nightly prayers, while also using her newfound interest in social justices to push awareness and increase support for victims of abuse-- including better awareness and support for men.

Rolf had named his latest cow, "Edina," in honor of Eddy. I believe it was something about: "The departed Ed-boy had always mentioned a love for cows, just as the unified-eyebrow Ed-boy expressed a love for chickens, as Rolf always recalls him proclaiming excitement for the profit a bovine can have." I believe Rolf misunderstood the term, "cash cow" that Eddy could often throw around, but it's still the thought that counts.

Then, there's the matter of the Kanker's: Lee had been placed in an adult prison, for the severity of her actions, but May and Marie were able to remain unprosecuted. Given Lee's motivation, as vengeance for her victimized loved one and technically defending others from their would-be murderer, she wasn't sentenced to anything as extreme as life imprisonment nor actual death: instead, she'd serve 5-15 years, mostly due to her borderline attempted murder of Claire, too. Even though no one can fault her for Eddy's brother, even those who might've blamed Claire over her silence wouldn't agree on her warranting death, as well-- especially not a court of law. Yet, the argument had been made that Lee acted in a heat-of-the-moment spur than actual intent to take Claire's life, and that Claire knowingly had intended to spark Lee's bloodlust as her personal punishment over said silence, so Lee has a chance for parole and to only serve 5 years maximum. Marie and May visit her, and they're not exactly done with Claire, either.

May seems remorseful about Lee's actions, even apologizing for just leaving Claire for dead at first: "Yeah, w-we're upset you'd let one of our men suffer like that-- and I'd definitely be super upset, too, if it was Big Ed instead --but... I'm sorry." Marie has her own way of "apologies," I suppose: "Look, just say something next time, alright? Yeah, yeah, 'scared of him doing something, especially when he actually did do something'; but do you really believe we'd just let him do whatever to the girl that told us one of our men is in trouble? We are capable of showing some gratitude, y'know... So, yeah, you deserved to get your ass kicked, but not anything crazier than that. But, if you ever keep quiet about my man suffering and if he especially offs himself next, I'll be a lot more thorough than Lee, GOT IT?". Once again, it's the thought that counts... It didn't prevent Sarah from angrily jumping in between the small blonde and our blue-haired "friend," of course.

Over all, although scars never vanish, ours have finally managed to heal. Hopefully, the future will allow such scars to never even form as small cuts, and one day anyone can be given help and anyone can safely come forward. There'll always be the lingering of danger and some things still within the dark, as dastardly masterminds can find a way to hide atrocities or find means of being intimidating enough of a presence; but the sun must replace the moon and shine upon what night once coated, eventually. Justice is no different venture.

[The End]

*******************

Did you know that it's possible to report Sexual Abuse anonymously? There are hotlines designed for such identity-concealment, which are only a quick search away (the numbers tend to vary per region).

Not to mention, that rape nor other victimization tactics know any: gender, sex, blood relations or lack thereof... All it requires is the act of forcing someone into sexual situations against their will-- whether the more accepted idea of male-on-female, or even male-on-male and with blood relations involved.

Also, look for the signs of potential victimization of others: strange physical marks, changes in behavior (typically more "on edge" or agitated), sudden and irrational-seeming fear of an individual...

And most importantly, remember: it's better to face the embarrassment of being wrong and speak up on any concerns, than realize your gut feeling was right and when it's too late to save someone...

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

Who knew that what started as another fun, personal writing practice in NovelAI would become something else? Don't worry, when I got serious about making this into an actual fanfiction for sharing, I stepped up on the matters of a more "personal (and human) touch."

That's the fun thing about writing fanfiction: there's no laws saying you can't take inspiration from other ones and put your own twist onto it, for others to also possibly enjoy.

[cheekygreenty]

Leave Me Lonely p.1 - The Darkling x Reader

Based on Ariana Grande’s song Leave me Lonely ft.Macy Grey. Was supposed to be just one part but I got carried away as per usual 🤓

'Get the General!' Zoya's eyes were borderline frantic but her composure remained the same, the once pristine blue kefta was dirty and ragged and her long luscious hair was disheveled, a piece of it in the way of a small cut on her temple.

'Zoya are you alright?' You were exiting the General's tent when you saw her approach, your body filled with an alarming feeling as you raced to meet her and some other Grisha, The skiff, she was manning a skiff across the Fold not even an hour ago, why is she back?

She ignored your question and continued with her dutifulness, 'The General, this is urgent'

You nodded and ran back, mind whirling with the possibilities of the skiffs return. Zoya was a great Squaller who'd successfully manned many journeys across the Fold so why was she back here, all scratched and bruised.

He was conversing with First Army Lieutenants and Captains when a rough grasp around his arm interrupted the flowing conversation. He squared his shoulders but when he saw your panicked face, he relaxed but only the smallest amount. Not even 10 minutes beforehand you two were involved in a heavy argument and at the feel of his tense muscles beneath his kefta, you guessed he thought you were back for more.

You had a right to come back and throw insults at his face, hell, he was the one who brought out that side of you. A vicious, ruthless, and malevolent side you never knew you had, but you ignored that urge.

-Dangerous Love, you're no good for me darling-

'We have a situation.' You cocked your head in Zoya's direction and waited until his company excused themselves and stood to the side before you let Zoya speak.

'I think we may have a sun-summoner.' She said without any negligible hesitancy. The tent suddenly froze in time. The Grisha held their breath and the otkazat'sya paled as your eyes grew wide. A Sun-Summoner.

'We were 2 markers in and were attacked by volcra, a searing light came out of nowhere, or rather came out of a girl, a first-army soldier.' You could see the lieutenant perk up at the sound of one of his being mentioned but Aleksander's expression hadn't changed since Zoya started talking.

'Bring her to me.'

'A Healer is bringing her now.' As she concluded her statements, she silently moved off to the crowd of other Grisha who'd come back from the skiff journey looking equally as shaken as she did.

You leaned back on the desk for support as you settled the information she'd just given you. This was Zoya, a very, very credible witness who'd just said a Sun-Summoner had been found. A legend come true, a myth that no longer needed debunking.

You looked at him again, this time noticing a flicker of hope in his eyes. He stared right back into your own wide eyes and gave a gentle nod followed by a small squeeze of reassurance to your hand which still held a tight hold on his arm. He kept his back to the entrance but you had a full view of her once the tent flap opened.

She was brought in by two guards in a scuffed First-Army uniform, Whether it was from the volcra or just daily use, you didn't know. She looked slightly sickly but mostly scared, like a wounded animal being hunted by its prey.

'Bring her closer.' You had let go of his arm now, that feeling of surety left you cold as his touch disappeared from yours. The guards brought her forth a bit more, letting her go and stepping back as their General finally turned around.

'Closer.' She took a tiny step forward. The poor girl is petrified.

'Well?'

'Well, what. Sir?' She was on the defense, I don't blame her. He was intimidating even when he wasn't using his powers.

'What are you?'

'Alina Starkov, Assistant Cartographer, Royal Corps of Surveyors.' Her fearful expression suddenly changed into a more devastated one. 'They’re all gone. It’s my fault. That’s why I’m here, isn’t it?'

'Answer the question.' He leaned back against the desk just as you did.

'A mapmaker, sir' It was clear to you that Ms.Starkov had no idea why she was here. She was scared, alone, and being interrogated by the most feared man in all of Ravka. The tent erupted in a peal of laughter but you had no time for such snobbiness.

'Quiet' You ordered and a silence fell over the space once again. There was a time when you wouldn't dare command a tent full of Grisha, but Aleksander had changed you; changed the way all his Grisha looked at you.

'So who actually saw what happened? Zoya? You manned the mainsail.'

Zoya repeated what she told you, and Aleksander asked the girl whether she'd been tested but your ears stopped listening once she'd stated she grew up in Keramzin. You too grew up in Keramzin before you were shipped off to the Little Palace to train and become a skilled Heartrenderer. You knew they tested all the children, so how the hell did she slip through the cracks?

You came back from your thoughts just as Aleksander approached her and subsequently amplified her powers. A beam of light so bright and strong you felt some heat from it pounced from her skin and up through the ceiling.

Everyone looked away from the harsh ray but you couldn't turn away. It was beautiful and magical, the physical embodiment of hope, but short-lived as Aleksander let her go and she fell back with a look of awe. He moved quickly, whispering into Ivan's ear and then moving back to you.

'Accompany them to the Little Palace. Ride on a horse and be on the lookout, and give her your kefta.' You nodded curtly, knowing he only trusted his inner circle with the transport of the Sun-Summoner to Os Alta, and that included you. Alina was dragged out from the tent still in a daze of her own.

Your earlier argument with him vanished from your memory as he leaned down to briefly kiss you on the top of your head, 'Be safe.' And with that, you left to find your horse.

***

The backroads were peaceful and quiet as your horse galloped along the dirt road. You wanted so badly to sit in the carriage and speak to Alina, a fellow child of Keramzin, but you listened to Aleksander's command and served as a lookout for any oncoming dangers. So far it had been all clear, but as you approached a hill, a tree blocking the road caught your attention. You slid off your horse and signaled the coachmen to stop too.

'The road is blocked! Beware!' One of them shouted and then all hell broke loose. Shots came from everywhere and anywhere while your horse, in a frightful spell, escaped the way you came.

You had no clear line of vision as dust and dirt clouds plummed above ground and a bullet scratched your left shoulder, then your leg. Your eyes stung and lungs burned as you tried to get yourself out of direct lines of bullets and bombs, eventually finding a place behind thick trees.

Ivan and Fedyor joined you almost immediately both panting and the latter holding his hand to his chest.

'You're bleeding Y/N, where is your kefta?' Fedyor panicked and lay his other hand on your leg where the blood glistened like a jewel.

'How many are there?' Ivan risked asking, trying to get your mind off of the bleeding wounds. Your hands were up in the air as you listened for heartbeats and your heart dropped to your stomach. Too many.

'At least 15 more.' You looked around the Grisha desperately devising a plan in your head that would bring you all out alive.

'Get to the carriage, protect the girl' You signaled to the three Heartrenderers and Squaller.

'But you're hurt and you cannot fight the-' Ivan was cut off by the darkening of the forest, a classic tell that Aleksander was here. Relief flooded you all. The shadows loomed over you, directing their course to near the carriage and then up ahead to where Alina was.

You waited for him to erupt from behind the trees and help you, but the minutes ticked by and you were still hiding from the skilled Fjerdan fighters without backup. Fedyor looked to you, disappointment and pity clear on his face.

Only momentarily did the fighting cease as bullets carried on their assault. You assumed they would flee from the fear of being in the Darkling's presence, but they hit back twice as hard. In return, you all fought back equally as strong, knocking out bodies left right and center despite your dwindling body.

All throughout the fight, you had one thing on your mind and that was why Aleksander chose to ignore you. Was he still mad from your argument? No that couldn't possibly be why he would leave you to potentially die at the hands of druskelle.

Yes you were a soldier, but no doubt he knew the extents of the Fjerdan army and their skilled fighters. If outnumbered, a Grisha was basically of no use.

-If you're gonna love me and leave me hanging here....-

You understood she was the Sun-Summoner but you were you. You were the person he shared his bed with every night, the person who could calm his stormy mind, and the person who stayed with him through it all even though you hurt more than he loved. It stung like a throbbing wound and snagged at your already dwindling will to keep the relationship alive.

-then I'd rather you leave me lonely-

—————-

Part 2

Taglist

@aleksanderwh0r3 @theonelittleone @searching-for-gallifrey @lostysworld @0-artemis @exo-1204 @staradorned @bookfrog242 @simp-for-ben-barners @keepdaydreamingbb @acciorudolphx @pansysgirlfriend @pansysgirlfriend @justmesadgirl

[i-am-the-inksinger]

My entry for The Purple Room's 2019 Random Romance Challenge, wherein each participant was assigned a randomly generated romance title and asked to write a PG-13 fic based on it. My prompt was, "Nymphs with Blonde Hair."

Warnings for recreational drug and alcohol use, aphrodisiacs, allusions to public sex, morally bankrupt elves, and a dash of mild fantastic racism.

___

Somewhere between his third puff off the hookah and sixth (seventh?) glass of plum wine, Thassarian had become convinced that Koltira had invited him to Quel'Thalas largely in an attempt to kill him.

Now, he couldn't say for sure why the ranger had decided to kill him, or why he couldn't have just slit his throat and been done with it, but between Thassarian's sudden hypersensitivity to sound and the warm, increasingly uncomfortable throb of his loins, it was the only logical conclusion to be drawn.

Normally neither of these afflictions would be any big deal - the sound sensitivity could be taken care of easily enough by simply removing himself to someplace quieter, and the sudden rigidity in his trousers could have been dealt with either on his own or with Koltira's expert assistance. In fact, both could have been managed, under normal circumstances, by simply absconding with Koltira to some quiet, out-of-the-way little nook or backroom for an hour or three. Surely Koltira would have paid mind to the way Thassarian winced at every word or sound that went beyond the acceptable volume for a private conversation. The elf could be a sadist in bed, but he wasn't a monster.

Or… so Thassarian had believed, in any event. Now, settled in a back corner of a pleasure house whose name he couldn't recall - one of dozens littered throughout Dawnspire, if Koltira was at all to be believed anymore - with his ears ringing, his pants becoming more uncomfortably tight by the minute, and surrounded on all sides by laughing, canoodling elves (and one dwarf, who looked not at all as terrified as Thassarian felt,) he was beginning to wonder if perhaps he had been mistaken all along about Koltira.

Maybe this had been Koltira's plan all along: Seduce some poor, helpless young soldier until he was practically eating out of the elf's hands, then lure him to his death by hookah smoke and drugged wine in the middle of an elvish brothel as some sort of mad ranger sport.

At least… he thought the wine was probably drugged. Then again, he'd never had plum wine before, so maybe it was just the tobacco in the hookah that he was reacting to - only he'd had tobacco before, chewed it and smoked it through wood pipes, so that couldn't be right, could it?

Perhaps the tobacco was drugged. Could hookah tobacco be drugged…?

There was a chuckle at his side, low and sultry in a manner that did nothing at all to help the… issue… in his trousers. Equally unhelpful was the languid shift of the warm, lithe body next to him, or the sudden wash of warm, wine-sweet breath across his ear as Koltira leaned much too close to him.

“Still with us, Thassarian?” Koltira asked, and Light, if his voice didn't sound like so much warm honey being poured from a perfect, handcrafted jar…

“Oh, he's with you, certainly,” another elf said - Jarrod, Thassarian thought. Another of Koltira's ranger friends, redheaded and ruddy-skinned and too damn loud. “Look at him. He's practically falling apart at the seams.”

“Maybe we should have warned him about the hookah.” That was a woman, speaking from somewhere behind Koltira. “Smoulder is a pretty strong blend, and you said he's new to this.”

“He's fine,” Koltira said, leaning away from Thassarian just enough to let a burst of cool air blow between them. Then he leaned close again, and asked in a softer tone: “You're fine, right? Still in there?”

His head felt light, and for some reason he had a bit of difficulty tracking movement with his eyes, but somehow Thassarian managed to turn to look at Koltira and, with all the dignity and poise he could muster, actually answered his question.

“Uhm,” Thassarian said, sounding quite confident to his own badly ringing ears. Then, because it felt important that this be clarified, he added, “Should I… be able to smell the color purple right now?”

It was a nice smell, purple, only he was relatively certain he hadn't previously been able to smell any colors. He was also relatively certain that this new development should perhaps bother him significantly more than it currently did.

“That depends,” another elf commented from across the low table, scratching his honey-colored goatee thoughtfully. “What's it smell like?”

Thassarian considered that.

“Kind of sweet,” he said after a moment. “Like… like honeysuckle and sandalwood. And tobacco.”

“Purple smells like tobacco, hm?” The elf - Thaerin, wasn't it? Saerin? Saeros? - nodded very seriously. “We've learned something new today.”

The dwarf across the room whooped suddenly, her fiery braids flying wildly about as she and a black-haired she-elf went toppling sideways across the cushioned booth they shared.

The ruckus they stirred up carried easily over the din of the bustling pleasure house and was soon followed by a swell of drunken leers and laughter, and Thassarian's ears rang painfully with the noise - though he was pleased to see that he didn't seem to be the only one unhappy with the commotion. Three of his four elvish companions cringed, as well; if the lady elf with them reacted, Thassarian couldn't see it with Koltira sitting where he was. They'd all smoked off the same hookah, though, and for all the wine Thassarian had drunk, at least two of the elves had had more still. He knew Koltira had downed at least an entire bottle on his own.

“Maybe we should go somewhere a bit… quieter,” Koltira said, still wincing. His long, slender ears were pinned back against his head in clear agitation, and his body no longer lay slumped quite so fluidly against Thassarian's side.

“We have a room reserved,” the lady elf commented. “Upstairs - if nothing else, we can try to wait out all the noise,” she added, and somehow she sounded doubtful.

“It'd be a waste of a room,” Jarrod snorted. “Sit around and do… what? Play pachisi until everyone else screws each other into a drunken coma?”

The throb in Thassarian's loins picked up at that, deep and intense enough that he was sure he could feel his face twisting in response - not so much from the discomfort, but from the sudden need that came with it.

Was sex an option…?

Koltira twitched beside him, and his long ears began to turn a wonderful, peachy shade of pink at the tips as he shot Thassarian a pointed look.

“Well, we could always have a go at each other,” the lady elf was saying. She still sounded uncertain. “Only… we went and got Koltira's human all turned about. I'd hate to take advantage.”

“I wouldn't,” Thassarian heard himself say through the low thrumming in his ears.

Four elvish heads craned about to fix him with looks that ranged from incredulous to deeply contemplative, and Thassarian found himself thoroughly distracted by their gleaming, crystalline eyes. Like stars, they were - bright, clever stars, far too clever for something so very pretty--

“Wouldn't… what, exactly?” Koltira asked, leaning close again and looking up at Thassarian through his long, pale eyelashes. There was something endearing about the expression on his face, and Thassarian suddenly had to work very hard not to lean down and plant a soft kiss on the elf's full lips… though, at the moment, he wasn't sure why he was resisting the urge at all. Propriety was a foreign, half-forgotten concept, and nothing else occurred to him at all that might be a decent reason not to simply pounce Koltira and be done with it.

Perhaps it was muscle memory. Damn the thing.

“I wouldn't mind,” Thassarian said, low and careful, “being taken advantage of, just at the moment.”

Koltira's eyes darkened with lust, and Thassarian very nearly lost the battle to refrain from snapping forward and pinning Koltira back against the cushions. He succeeded only because Koltira beat him to the punch, lunging forward and claiming his lips in a kiss that was mostly teeth while his momentum sent them both tumbling across the booth in a heap.

Like a dam bursting, the throbbing, driving heat in his loins spread into his limbs all at once, inflaming him as all the world began to blur away into a thick haze. All he could register now were the sharp teeth at his lips, and the hands sliding up his shirt and down beneath the waistband of his trousers, and the swift-burning heat that seared his flesh in their wake.

“Well, isn't this a lovely sight to stumble across.”

Koltira startled, then shoved away with a hiss. Thassarian followed suit; he didn't quite recognize the voice that had spoken, but he was in elf lands and trusted Koltira enough besides to follow his lead when the ranger started acting like a cat on a hot tin roof.

The other elves at their table were as stock-still as Koltira, and when he followed their guilty looks to the cause Thassarian understood why. It probably wasn't every day that a ranger captain came along to watch them canoodle in the back of a pleasure house, let alone their own captain. Halduron Brightwing might be rumored to be one of the most laid-back elves among the Ranger Corps, but he was respected and feared in equal measure - with good reason, if any trace of Koltira's horror stories were to be believed.

That Halduron was smiling gently down at them didn't help matters one bit.

“Captain… Brightwing,” the lady elf managed to choke out. “Er… Good afternoon, sir.”

“And a happy Feast to you,” Halduron returned, and his gentle smile widened to show perhaps a few too many teeth as he turned his attention squarely on the lady elf.

The lady elf's ears flicked nervously, and she couldn't seem to manage more than an uncomfortable fluttering of her eyelashes before Halduron turned back to the group at large.

“You certainly seem to be making the most of your holiday,” Halduron said, sliding down onto a cushion between Saeros and Jarrod and looking so at ease that, for just a moment, Thassarian decided the other elves were simply overreacting. Surely their captain was just here to check in, or perhaps toss back some wine or take a drag from the hookah.

And then Halduron's sharp, silvery-blue gaze flicked to Thassarian, and Thassarian dazedly marveled at the speed with which his life passed before his eyes.

“And I see you've invited a friend along this year,” Halduron continued, and the winsome, ostensibly welcoming look he trained on Thassarian sent a prickle of genuine unease racing down the latter’s spine. “Thassarian, wasn't it? How wonderful to see you again! I hope the festivities haven't been too… extravagant for you; we tend to be rather enthusiastic about our springtime holidays, and you wouldn't be the first outsider caught off guard by it all.”

Thassarian blinked.

“I, uh…” Damn the drugs and damn his tongue. Maybe Halduron would be merciful and kill him quickly if he stammered long enough.

Halduron grinned, and again Thassarian was struck by the impression that the expression was toothier than it strictly needed to be as the captain laughed and said, “I see you've already had a hit or two from the hookah. I hope my men haven't given you anything too potent; you don't strike me as the smoking type.”

“Naw,” Thassarian said, slurring his consonants and slipping into a light drawl as he scrambled to sound as relaxed as Halduron looked. “I smoke a wood pipe back ‘ome. ‘M jus’ not used to… uh… think they called it ‘smoulder’…”

Four elvish heads ducked back as though they'd had flicked with cold water; beside him, Thassarian distinctly heard Koltira make a soft, keening little whine in the back of his throat, sounding like nothing so much as a dog nursing a bad leg as Halduron's eyes flashed with sudden interest.

“They gave you Smoulder?” Halduron asked, leaning forward just a hair. “Really? How do you find it?”

Thassarian considered that for a moment, largely because he had to figure out what the grinning elf sitting across from him meant by “finding it.”

“Kinda sweet,” he finally said. “Smoky-sweet. Pretty good stuff, actually; think I took a couple hits of it,” he added with a grin. There; surely that would put Halduron at ease, right? It wasn't like his rangers had forced anything nefarious on Thassarian. He'd sucked down whatever blend they were burning all under his own power, completely of his own volition.

Halduron grinned again at Thassarian's companions.

“This must be a gentler blend of Smoulder than I'm familiar with,” Halduron said, catching and holding the gaze of each ranger in their turn, “if you all thought it a good idea to let him take multiple draws of it - alongside a serving or three of wine, no less, from the looks of your table.”

The silence that settled around the group became thick, nearly palpable, and suddenly none of the other elves seemed able to meet Halduron's bright eyes any longer.

Thassarian frowned as he took in their behavior, and slowly began to wonder if perhaps he should not have mentioned what kind of tobacco he'd been smoking. Somehow he had the impression that Halduron wasn't as unconcerned by the information as he looked, and by now Koltira and the other elves all looked as though they were about twenty second from receiving a death sentence.

Maybe it was wiser not to correct the captain's guess about the amount of wine he'd had to drink…

“Shall I take your silence as a ‘no,’ then?” Halduron asked, and for all he sounded friendly, even conspiratorial, Thassarian imagined he heard the slightest edge to the captain's voice.

Four sets of red-tipped ears pinned back uncomfortably, but it was Saeros who ultimately spoke up.

“It, ah,” the blond stammered. “It's… the usual stuff, Captain. Same amount. Same, ah… potency.”

Addled as he was by the heat still slogging through his veins, even Thassarian could guess that this was a bad thing to have admitted to Halduron. They should really have tried lying to the captain, although it was probably too late to change tack now.

“In their defense, they all smoked it, too,” Thassarian put in, because surely if he knew everybody here was intoxicated, Halduron would be less inclined to think badly of his rangers.

Koltira made the whining noise again, and this time Thassarian distinctly felt a long fingernail jab him urgently just under the ribs.

Halduron turned another gentle smile on Thassarian, and this time the prickle it sent along the human's spine was one of fear.

“Oh, dear, we have been naughty,” Halduron said once the silence had grown uncomfortable, and now his voice was soft, too - soft like steam coming off a cup of hot cider, soft like the clearest and last warning anyone was going to get before one wrong word brought disaster down upon their heads.

Thassarian chewed down on the inside of his cheek and resolved to stop talking.

Halduron shifted, drawing one knee up to prop under his arm and leaning back on his other hand as he watched the group squirm for another moment. Desperate not to meet the man's shining gaze again, Thassarian let his attention wander to the rest of the pleasure house. Nobody else seemed even to notice that Halduron was here; the rest of the place was still alive with rowdy laughter and drunken canoodling. The dwarf lady was sandwiched now between two very enthusiastic elves where she lay sprawled across a low table, and yet it still seemed that she was the one in control as they…

Thassarian swallowed hard and looked away, but the look had already done its damage, stoking the warmth in his loins once more and making his limbs feel at once leaden and weightless as he looked down at the innocuous table before him.

It was a nice table. Good, sturdy wood, well-polished and soft under his calloused hand, low enough to the floor that it might almost be a bed frame rather than a place to eat - although, of course, there was quite an array of delicacies surrounding him either way, and he could imagine they were all simply bursting with warmth and sweetness…

There was a loud slap of skin against wood, and Thassarian jerked out of his spiraling thoughts to see Halduron leaning forward and smiling at him again, starlike eyes glittering from under a pair of delicately sweeping eyebrows raised nearly to his hairline.

“Stay with us, Thassarian,” the captain ordered, and… and yes, it did register as an order, just enough for Thassarian's spine to straighten of its own accord, though the throbbing lower down didn't relent in the slightest as Halduron continued, “We don't want you making a mess of yourself out in front of the whole house.”

“…Right,” Thassarian muttered, scratching at his jaw in an attempt to distract himself from thoughts of messiness.

“I would imagine the same is true of your friends,” Halduron added, though his gaze rested squarely on Koltira as he spoke. “I'm quite certain none of them intended to drag you into a drug-addled orgy in the middle of such a crowded space. Behind closed doors, maybe, but certainly not in the middle of the lounge in one of Dawnspire's busiest pleasure houses - on one of the most ardent days of the year, no less.”

Somebody whooped from the dwarf’s table, and one of Halduron's long ears twitched ever so slightly towards the sound.

“We aren't dwarves, after all,” Halduron said, the corner of his mouth twitching for an instant. “Nor noble-bred idiots with more silk than we know what to do with. We ought to at least pretend to have some scrap of dignity.”

We. He kept saying we, and try as he might Thassarian couldn't help but be distracted by that tiny little detail.

“We did have a room reserved.” That was the lady elf, speaking up again for the first time since Halduron had arrived. “We were about to head for it, only…”

“We were… distracted,” Koltira said.

His voice seemed to shudder through Thassarian's very bones. With its passing, what little sense Thassarian had left evaporated again, and he moved to close with Koltira once more - only to stop as Koltira placed a firm hand against his chest and shook his head. Confusion, more than any conscious decision to behave, kept Thassarian pinned in place. Why was Koltira stopping him…?

“Ah,” Halduron said, though he sounded much farther away as Thassarian stared hard at Koltira's reddened face. “I see the problem: We have a mated pair in our midst.”

Koltira's blush spread down to his lithe neck, and were it not for the hand he kept against Thassarian's chest the human might lean down to steal a kiss or three along the corded muscles there. Koltira certainly didn't look as though he would have minded…

Someone clapped their hands, once and loudly so, and the sound was just enough to startle Thassarian back to reality, even if only for an instant.

“Right then,” Halduron said, rising to his feet and beckoning for the group to follow him. “Let's us be off, hmm? It seems as though Thassarian can't hold out much longer, and I think it might be cruel to try to make him. Show me this room you've got, and let's try not to take the scenic route, if it can at all be helped.”

“You're… coming along?” Jarrod asked, pausing as he helped Thassarian to his feet to stare at Halduron.

“I think it might be wise,” Halduron replied, and for once his smile seemed more roguish than faintly menacing. “Someone has to play the responsible adult - which is to say, poor Thassarian may need some help keeping the four of you at bay, and if my holiday must be impacted by my own foolish rangers, I think I deserve at least some sort of compensation.”

Koltira began towing Thassarian away then, laying his warm, sharp-nailed hands on the bare skin of Thassarian's arm, and whatever hazy compunctions Thassarian might have had about Halduron tagging along vanished in another heady undertow as he let himself be led into the bowels of the pleasure house.

Strange creatures, elves - but beautiful enough it didn't matter, he supposed.

[inevitablysomberdarkreviews]

Rating: 8/10

If you haven't read this series, I totally recommend it.

[Spoilers Ahead]

First, I'd like to start by saying darkficsyouneveraskedfor, aka Roo, is a personal favorite writer of mine when it comes to Dark, Sexually Themed writing. Definitely, number 1 because she popped my dark fic cherry with her well-known fic: Witness. So, I feel like having one of her works be one of the first I review is a given.

This series features Thor (God of Thunder and Lightning), and Roo specifies that this series is geared more toward our chubby! Sized readers. Anyone who knows Roo knows that she is very ambiguous regarding the Readers she writes to (honestly, the talent is overflowing). She rarely ever gives them specific traits outside of a vagina. This is probably one of the few times I've seen her do this.

That said, having the reader be chubby is an exciting choice and a perfect fit for this specific Thor.

When I began reading, I could only imagine a chubby reader throughout the entire series, someone short who finds it difficult to live in her own skin.

Before being coerced into having coitus with Thor, it seemed that her biggest fear when it came to Thor was him getting what he wanted and then leaving, forcing her to pick up the pieces of her already fragile and broken heart. (You see, from their first meeting until that point, through the dating and the uncomfortable interactions, she would try to satiate his growing desire with mild sexual favors.) Which was possibly why she was holding out on him?

However, it only seems that way. It appears that the reader has a 6th sense because even after he finally gets what he wants sexually, he returns for more.

She realizes that her fear wasn't him leaving; in the deepest parts of her mind, although she couldn't quite put her finger on it, her genuine fear was him keeping her. It was knowing that if she did give in to him, there was no going back.

But as we all know, especially with this being a darker fic, she didn't actually give in. She allowed herself a vulnerable moment, then Thor pounced.

I have a soft spot for this particular reader because all of her actions gear toward keeping the peace. Whether it be between Thor or her friends.

Speaking of her friends: Charmaine

Was the most considerable pain in my ass from the get-go. Had it been me, I wouldn't have thought of going on a trip KNOWING she would be there.

She's just terrible. However, I do not believe what happened to her should have happened. When she had her 'Thor-Caused-Accident,' I didn't understand why he didn't just leave Charmaine alone when the reader was already over her. I was even more confused that he went back to finish the job.

But towards the end, when all the pieces came together, I realized it was a means to connect himself with the reader, Asgardian-Style.

The ending did confuse me a bit: Was she still being held hostage and just residing in her gilded cage?, or had she already made an appearance to the public of Asgard and was officiated as queen of Asgard?

Now she's stuck with no means of escape, and I doubt Heimdall would be pressed to assist her in any way, shape, or form.

Overall, this series grabbed my attention, and it held onto it for dear life from beginning to end. I honestly had no idea what to do with myself after it was done, but I managed to pull myself together ad read it a few more times.

The Closer I Get Masterlist

Summary: You meet the God of Thunder by chance only to find yourself swept up in the whirlwind of his attention. (chubby/short!reader)

Status: Finished

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Part 8

Part 9

Part 10

Part 11

Part 12

Part 13

Part 14

Part 15

Part 16

Part 17

Part 18